It's Not A Date [R63Flash/Brenda]

-1-
>Canterlot High
>A place of hopes, dreams, and romance
>Truly, it is a special place, holding untold mysteries for those who walk through her doors.
>You are Anonymous and, at present, you are engaged in digesting some very difficult material.
>Truly, your staggering intellect is a shining light to all those around you.
>You reach the end of the page and chuckle.
"Oh Nana-chan, you card. You'll never win his heart like that."
>Moving to turn the page, you suddenly have latest TPB of Super Love Awesome Plus Plus lifted out your hand.
>Letting loose a manly squeal, you reach for the book, fingers groping in the air.
"No, my mango!"
>"Ha, ha, sick."
>Glaring, you turn your attention to the purloining person who...
>Of course.
"Hello, Brenda."
>The blue-haired girl grins and winks at you.
>"Morning Anon; still reading your Chinese comics, I see?"
>You would correct her, but you've been doing so day in and day out for the better part of a year, and she still hasn't gotten it yet.
>So, you just cross your arms over your chest, and wait for her to give the book back to you.
>Brenda flips through a few pages, and you can see her forehead crease a little.
>"Ugh, you're still reading this trash?"
>Straightening up, you frown at the tanned girl.
"I'll have you know that SLAPP is one of the greatest love stories of our time, on par with such great works as Romeo and Juliet, Antigone, and Airplane!."
>"Right."
>The obviously uninterested girl flips the book closed.
>Tapping the spine against her knee, she sighs and looks you over.
>"I guess I just don't get it. You're not a bad looking guy Anon, but you're always walking around with your nose in these comic books where..."
>Opening the book again, she squints down at the page, before speaking in an uncertain, halting tone.
>"The challenge... of my life... is all of these women... throwing themselves at me..."
>With a dismissive snort, Brenda tosses the book back in your lap.
>"What a crock. You need to get a real date, okay?"

>3DPD
>implying
>You bite your tongue to resist the onslaught of pasta that threatens to spill out of your pockets.
>Putting the manga into your backpack, you give Brenda a scowl.
"I don't have any interest in dating."
>"For real?"
>The girl frowns.
>"I mean, it's none of my business, but it's pretty weird."
>Urk... social faux pas, one of your greatest weaknesses!
>Clearing your throat, you get up from your seat and walk to the door.
"I don't have time for this."
>Smooth.
>"Me either."
>What?
>Brenda bounces alongside you, smiling.
>"I've got to get to band practice. Walk with me?"
>Drat.
>Just say no.
>With your iron constitution honed by a thousand >tfw, you respond.
"N-n-n-no problem."
>"Great! Let's go then!"
>Brenda laughs, bumping against your arm and moving into the hall.
>Double drat.
>With a heavy sigh, you make your way through the after school buzz of activity.
>To be honest, you aren't really interested in those kinds of things.
>But it's nice to be around the hubub every once in a while.
>Brenda's sticking awful close to you, but that's probably because the halls can be a little packed at some points.
>It's not bad, just awkward, especially the way she's smiling at everyone.
>After a few turns, Brenda looks up at you.
>"Hey, Anon?"
>You respond with the appropriate grunt.
>"I know this is really sudden, but-"
>"Hey! Nonnapuss!"
>Another voice cuts in, drawing your attention away from the suddenly perturbed rocker.
>Pinkie Pie comes bouncing down the hall, grinning wide as the day is long.
>She skids to a stop, planting her face in the middle of your chest before rocking back on her heels and smiling.
>"You're here!"
>A thin sheen of sweat pools in the palms of your hands as those big blue eyes stare up at you.
>Gulping, you wipe them on your shirt, trying to appear confident as you give an anxious smile.
"Y-yeah, I guess so!"
>The frizzy-haired girl grins, rocking back and forth.

>"This is great! You're usually gone right after the bell rings, and so I didn't think I'd see you but SURPRISE! here you are!"
>Pinkie punctuates the shout by throwing her hands up into the air and nearly knocking you in the face.
>Giggling, the bouncy girl takes another step forward.
>"I thought I would have to email you about this, but I know how you are with email, so I didn't think you'd hear about it until it was too late, but I'm having a party!"
>Beside you, Brenda rolls her eyes and scowls.
>"Oh wow, big surprise there."
>Pinkie grabs the blue haired girl by the collar and giggles
>"I know, right!? It's going to be SUPER!"
>With a quick jerk of her head, Pinkie turns back to you.
>"You'll come, right?"
>In an instant, your rapid escape system comes online.
>It feels like a veritable flood of sweat soaks your chest, legs, arms, and forehead as you Pinkie Pie attempts to blind you with her pearly-whites.
>But now is not the time for hesitation.
>You must be forthright and clear.
>Now, go!
"Uh... I... um... oh..."
>Critical failure.
>Pinkie leans in closer, batting her eyes.
>"Puh-leeze? We've been classmates for years but you've never ever, ever, ever, ONCE come to one of my parties!"
>You're swimming in sweat by this point, your tongue too fat and bloated in your mouth to move.
>Gulping for air, you try to piece together a response.
"I-"
>"Anonymous is busy right now."
>What?
>You glance at Brenda out of the corner of your eye.
>She looks a little miffed.
>"He's walking me to practice."
>Pinkie scrunches up her face, glancing between the two of you.
>"Huh, really?"
>"Really."
>"Really really?"
>Brenda lifts a finger and places it against the other girl's nose.
>"Listen, I'm not getting into this with you. You've told him about the party, so just send him the email with the details like you planned. C'mon Anon."
>Tugging on your arm, Brenda pulls you away from Pinkie, who seems more confused than disappointed.

>Though you're still feeling pretty waterlogged, you flash your savior a smile.
"Well, thanks for that. I was afraid I'd never get away."
>"You should have just touched her."
>Brenda gives a small sigh, reaching out and wiping her hand on a dry part of your sleeve.
>"Then you would have just slid right past her."
>Ah. Clever.
>Rolling your eyes, you walk with her a while longer until you finally reach the music room.
>After a moment's pause, you smile at her.
"Well, I guess this is it; see you around, Brenda."
>"Hold it."
>The blue-haired girl looks rather cross as she frowns at you.
"Y-yeah?"
>"Remember what you told me earlier? About how you didn't want to date anyone?"
>You give a small nod, which causes Brenda to give a small huff.
>"So, that whole encounter with Pinkie Pie? What was that?"
"What?"
>You feel the nervousness knotting itself in your belly even as you laugh.
"M-me? Date Pinkie Pie? There's, there's no way!"
>"You were flapping your lips around like a fish."
>The deadpan delivery somehow makes the wound deeper.
>Brenda glances away, scowling.
>"You like her, don't you?"
>Did you?
>Maybe a little.
>There's something to be said for a plucky, bouncy, party girl.
>Still...
"A bit, I guess."
>You can see Brenda's lip curl into a scowl.
"But, I don't think I could ever act on it."
>And in an instant, the sneer is gone.
>You have her full attention.
"I mean, you saw how I was. No girl wants to be around a stuttering guy."
>Crossing her arms under her chest, Brenda grins.
>"Well, you're not wrong there. But anyway, I was-"
>"Yo B!"
>A voice calls from inside the room.
>"Quit jawing and get in here and practice!"
>"Ugh!"
>Brenda rolls her eyes again and shakes her head.
>"This just isn't my day. Anyway, I'll catch you later, Anon."
>With a small smile, she ducks into the band room, leaving you in the hall.
>Alone.
>Lifting your hand, you manage a small, quiet sound.
"Y-you too."


-2-
>You're at home when it happens, your email chimes and, sure enough, there's a message from Pinkie Pie
>PARTY!
>Well, that's straight and to the point.
>You read over the details, which are just as intentional as the subject line
>But, as you're closing the message, your inbox chimes again with another message.
>From Pinkie.
>You hesitate for a moment before opening it
>'Anonymous, I hope you got my message about the party!'
"You sent it twenty seconds ago."
>Grumbling, you scowls and continue.
>'Because we're not super close, I'm not sure I have your email right, but I thought I'd send you two, just to be sure!'
>Uh huh.
>'I know you aren't much for parties, but I don't really feel like I know you that well. So, I'd really appreciate it if you'd come out to this one. I can introduce you to all my friends!'
>Which would end up being half the school, knowing her.
>Ugh.
>You debate ignoring the message just long enough to get to the bottom.
>'It would really mean a lot to me if you came. I'm sure that we can be best of friends if you do! Hugs and Kisses! -P.D.Pie'
>You sink into your chair after through the text wall of pure Pinkie.
>Staring up at the ceiling, you sigh and close your eyes.
"It's frustrating."
>You don't want to go.
>You DON'T want to go!
>There are a thousand reasons not to go, and eight hundred of them are sitting in your steam account
>But this small, niggling part of you wants to be different.
>To act out a little.
>It's not even because a pretty girl invited you.
>Well, okay, that might have something to do with it.
>But still, it's completely out of sorts.
>And for that reason, you won't do it.
>You just won't.
>
>
>
>Three days later, you're marching up to the house with a scowl on your face, muttering to yourself.
"It's not like I really had a choice. She sent me five messages a day asking me to RSVP..."

>Ultimately, you had to respond.
>It was the confetti blasting out of your locker yesterday that did it.
>Pinkie was so excited, it almost made the whole ordeal worth it.
>But, it's not like you have to be out here all night anyway.
"I'll just duck in for a little while, get some face time, and leave."
>The perfect plan.
>Pinkie will be too busy being her usual party-animal self to know that you're gone.
>Grinning, you begin climbing up to the door, determined to maximize efficiency.
>Unfortunately, the door gets flung open while you're still on the bottom step, and a cotton-candy scented rocket blasts out of it.
>You have enough time to flinch before Pinkie Pie collides with you like a stuffed tiger assaulting a mouthy grade-schooler.
>"Nonnapus, you made it!"
>With a girlish giggle, Pinkie rubs her face against your chest and then hops to her feet.
>Certain you've broken something, you roll about on the ground a few times before the hostess with the mostest offers her hand to you.
>"C'mon, everybody's waiting for you."
>Everybody?
"E-everybody?"
>Pinkie doesn't respond, but grabs you by the hand and pulls you to your feet, and then into the house.
>The din, which was a low thrum outside, grows to ear pounding heights as you step through the door.
>The gentle ache of your ribs is quickly forgotten as your brain rattles around in your head.
>Pinkie turns to you and shouts
>but you don't hear anything.
"WHAT?!"
>The giggly girl grins and wraps her arms around your neck.
>Pulling herself up, she all but presses her lips to your ear
>Her breath is hot, moist, and even slightly syrupy as she says again
>"Come upstairs with me; the girls are waiting!"
>Now, you're not a party goer.
>But you've seen enough bad coming of age television and movies to know that the party doesn't end on the ground floor.
>Lurid thoughts kick on your flight response, and you can feel the sweat begin to pool in the soles of your shoes.
"Uh, I don't, really..."

>Pinkie's not having any of it.
>With a delighted laugh, she tugs you away from the throng of bodies on the ground floor, and leads you upstairs.
>Despite your protests, you all too quickly find yourself shoved into another room, and the door shut behind you.
>The heavy beat of the music below causes the floor to tremble from time to time, but at least it's quieter.
>Of course, you're also crammed into a small space with eight other people.
>While you're still shaking off the ringing in your ears, Pinkie introduces you.
"Girls, this is Anonymous! Anonymous, the girls!"
>...Girls?
>Gulping, you glance around and see that, yes, you are presently the only boy in the room.
>You recognize all of them of course, if not by name.
>Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Sunset Shimmer are easy enough.
>Then there's the farm girl, and that animal activist who's always passing out petitions in front of the school.
>The weird transfer student who only ever shows up at class when something strange is going on; Moonlight Sparkler or whatever.
>Pinkie Pie of course, and...
"Brenda?"
>The tan girl gives a small grin and winks at you.
>"And here I thought you'd do anything to avoid this scene."
>Pinkie laughs, bouncing over to Brenda and wrapping her arms around her neck.
>"Aw, c'mon Brennie! Don't make Nonny feel awkward."
>As if on cue, the girls descend upon you, introducing themselves and bombarding you with questions.
>It's incredibly awkward, you feel yourself stumbling over the simplest responses.
>But none of them seem to be especially put off by it, instead probing you more.
>By the time they settle down, you feel as though they stripped you with just their questions.
>Pinkie moves up beside you, hugging herself close to your side.
>"Well, now that introductions are done, I won't keep you. There's a party downstairs calling my name!"
>With a delighted whoop, Pinkie hurries out the door, the other girls following suit.

>Even though your head is still spinning, you think you catch a couple of them shooting looks at you.
>Stumbling against the wall, you feel a pair of smaller hands rest on your shoulders.
>"Woah there, Champ."
>Brenda laughs as you collect your legs under yourself.
>"You look like you got hit by a semi."
"I, kinda feel like it."
>Rolling your tongue around in your mouth a few times, you feel it begin to shrink down to a more manageable size.
>At least you aren't afraid it's going to flop out of your mouth at any given moment anymore.
>Despite her cocky smile, there's a note of concern in the girl's voice as she asks
>"Was it a little too much at once?"
"A bit."
>Brenda nods, then smirks.
>"Being surrounded by beautiful babes will do that."
>And, just like that the tenderness is gone.
>Pushing yourself back into a standing position, you give the rocker an uncertain smile.
"Yeah, I guess Pinkie kind of sprung it on me."
>"She's like that."
>Brenda shrugs.
>"Pinkie just wants all her friends to be friends, even if they don't always get along. Anyway, you hungry?"
>No, you can eat at home.
>Your stomach growls, and the blue-haired girl gives you a knowing look.
>No way out of this one then...
"Yeah, I could use something."
>"Cool, come with me."
>Brenda's hand grabs yours and she pulls you back downstairs.
>As you step back into the party, you have a realization.
>This is the second time tonight that you've held a girl's hand.
>You're not sure if you should be elated or terrified, so you settle for tripping a few times over your own feet.
>Brenda doesn't seem to take much notice, pulling you through the party goers and back towards the kitchen.
>"It's not much"
>she says, as the music begins to fade
>"Mostly chips and stuff like that, but it'll keep you on your feet for a little while."
>Oh good, something familiar in this strange, wild world.
>There is a suspicious absence of Cheetos however.
>Probably for the best.

>As you take a few bites to stave off your hunger, Brenda continues hanging close by, watching you.
>You quickly become self-conscious, and resort to picking at the more suitable dipping chips out of your palm, rather than just going straight for it.
>"I didn't think you'd actually come."
>She finally says, leaning over a chair.
>Unconsciously, your eyes get drawn downward for a moment.
>They rocket back up to her face in an instant, but it's long enough for you to get an eyeful.
>Even if she's wearing a full-length t-shirt, and hardly the bustiest girl at the party, the way her arms rest gives Brenda a little extra oomph in the chest department
>"What made you change your mind?"
>You shrug.
"Well, Pinkie was pretty insistent, so I didn't really feel like I had a choice."
>Brenda nods, leaning closer.
>"That's all? Not because you think she's cute, or pretty, or whatever?"
>Color rushes to your cheeks and you cough several times.
"Jeez."
>In a moment of inspired genius, you pound on your chest twice and cough again.
"C-chip went down the wrong way."
>"Right."
>The corner of the rocker's lip turns up ever so slightly.
>"So, since you're not dying anymore, answer my question?"
"Uh, well, I mean I guess that's part of it. But she also blew glitter and scraps of paper all over my face when I opened my locker."
>Brenda purses her lips and nods.
>"Yeah, that would do it. Still,"
>glancing to you again, she furrows her brow.
>"You came, because of her, right? Not because you wanted, but because she did?"
"...Something like that..."
>Laughing, Brenda smiles and shakes her head.
>"Of course, you've got absolutely no backbone; why would I think any differently?"
>Ouch.
>Seeing your distress, the rocker rolls her eyes and pats your shoulder.
>"Well, if that's the way it's going to be, that's that."
>What?
"What?"
>Stepping back, Brenda locks her arms behind her and grins.
>"If you won't get a date on your own, I guess it falls to me to get you one."
>...Drat...


-3-
>"Anonymous, come on!"
"I said no!"
>Brenda scowls, following you around like a shadow.
>Just like she has been for the better part of a week.
>Every time you're out in the hall?
>Brenda.
>Every time you're in class together, who's sitting behind you?
>Brenda.
>Whenever you check your phone, who's over your shoulder asking if you've got a date?
"Brenda, please."
>You bring a hand to your forehead and sigh.
"I've already told you, I don't want a date. That's just, not for me."
>The girl makes an irritated buzzing sound with her lips.
>"C'mon, you can't be serious. Dating's part of what people do. You can't just, not date."
"It's worked fine for me so far."
>As you walk down the hall, you become suddenly aware of an extra weight on your back.
>Brenda's arms encircle your neck as she places her cheek against yours and frowns.
>"Maybe, but you're such a bore! Come on, it'll be fun!"
>Fun?
>From your experience, dating doesn't sound fun.
>Maybe at first, but it always ends up in a needy, convoluted mess.
>You wave her off.
"I just don't think it's my speed, Brenda."
>"Ugh, you're impossible."
>The girl gives a girlish groan and pushes her chest into your back.
>If they're supposed to make you reconsider your position, they do a really good job of it.
>The breath leaves your lungs and refuses to go back until Brenda finally drops off of you.
>Stepping around your still dazed body, she pouts at you.
>"I don't get it, Pinkie didn't have to work nearly this hard to get you to go to her party."
>Shaking your head, you come back to reality and begin walking again.
"Yeah, well, that's different."
>"Why's it different? I'm just asking you for a tiny commitment to go on a date with somebody. Anybody!"
>You grit your teeth.
"It's not that simple."
>"Sure it is."
>Cutting in front, Brenda turns and begins walking backwards so she's face to face with you.

>"All you have to do is go up to a girl and be like, 'Hey, let's go out Friday night.' and she'll be 'Uh, okay, where?' and then..."
"B, just drop it."
>Brenda pauses, then sets her lips into a scowl.
>She stops, causing you nearly to run into her.
"B, what are-"
>"Don't call me that."
"But everyone-"
>"Yeah, I know. But don't you call me that."
>The way her forehead creases, it looks like she's pretty serious.
>You sigh and shrug.
"All right then, Brenda."
>"Good."
>The small smile returns, and she immediately presses in again.
>"So, why no date?"
"It's too much work. I don't know the first thing about dating, so why would I do it in the first place?"
>"That's a pretty stupid reason; dating's one of those things you figure out as you go. It's no big deal once you do it a couple times."
>Grinning Brenda leans in.
>"Are you... scared?"
"...'m not scared."
>The girl giggles, then rocks back on her heels.
>"So, if you're not scared, it must be something else, right?"
>After a moment of thought, she frowns.
>"Anonymous, do you not like me?"
"That's the stup-"
>Crap.
>Crap, crap, crap.
>She's tearing up.
>Oh man, crying girl, what do?
>"You don't like me as much as Pinkie Pie? Me?"
>It's getting worse by the second.
>You know it's just a ploy to get you to agree to go on a date, but blast it all, feminine wiles are too strong!
>After several seconds of trying to defuse the situation and failing, you sputter out.
"It, it's not like that, Brenda."
>An exaggerated sniffle.
>"It's not? So, you do like me?"
"O-of course. We're friends."
>She grabs your hand in both of hers and begins to smile.
>"So, you'll go on a date, right? Because it will make me feel better?"
>...Ugh.
>Like a fiddle...
>Hanging your head, you sigh.
"Fine. I'll go on a date."
>"Aw yeah!"
>The sobbing student suddenly does an about face, releasing your hand and double pumping her fists.
>Rolling your eyes, you push by her.
>Once she finishes gloating, Brenda's quick to catch up.

"So, since you're so set on this, who did you have in mind?"
>"Hm?"
>Brenda's eyes widen for a moment, then she laughs.
>"Oh yeah, I guess that I was riding you pretty hard and I completely forgot who was available."
>You sigh and give her a look.
"You just want to win, huh?"
>She shoots you a cocky grin.
>"Winning's the best part."
"Whatever. So, who's on the short list?"
>Brenda scrunches up her face for a moment, before nodding.
>"Well, Pinkie's got to be on there, right?"
"Why her?"
>Laughing, the blue-haired girl does a little hop across a scuff mark on the floor.
>"Uh, duh? Because she's interested in you?"
>Pinkie? Really?
"I had no idea."
>"Bro, she introduced you to her best friends. It's pretty clear that she wouldn't mind spending more time with you."
>You feel your face contort in thought.
>It's not a stretch to say that Pinkie's one of the cutest girls in school.
>Those baby blue eyes have stopped many hearts.
>But she's also a wild child.
>Not your speed at all.
"Mmmmaybe. Anyone else?"
>Brenda raises an eyebrow, then shrugs.
>"Well, word is that Scribble Dee's looking to get out of the lab for a while."
"The nerd with the jewfro?"
>Brenda gives an unladylike snort as she covers her mouth.
>"Th-that's not nice!"
"Sorry, but next."
>"What about Sweet L-"
"Doesn't shave."
>"How would you know?"
>You shrug.
"Word gets around."
>Brenda sighs, looking off to the side and scowling.
>"You're not making this very easy, you know."
"You're the one strongarming me into this."
>There's an irritated huff from the rocker, before she grabs your hand.
>You slow to a stop, then turn to face her.
>An anxious, uncertain smile dances across her lips.
>"Well, if, none of those girls are really catching your attention why not..."
>She gulps, turning her head as a herd of students walk by.
>With a laugh, she shakes her head and looks up at you again.
>"What about me, Anon? Why don't you go out with me?"

>What?
"What?"
>Brenda visibly flinches, biting her lower lip.
>"W-what do you mean, what?"
"I mean what are you doing asking me out?"
>This isn't how things are supposed to work.
>The old friend is supposed to lose to the new girlfriend, just like in your mangos!
>She's not supposed to confess out of the blue!
>The real world doesn't work this way!
>Brenda huffs and cocks a hand on her hip.
>"Look, I get it; I'm not your number one choice, but don't you think you're making a bigger deal out of this than you should?"
>What?
"What?"
>With a small laugh, Brenda gives you a playful shove and smiles.
>"It's just a date, Anon. A-D-A-T-E, one. There's no commitment or anything, and we've known each other long enough that it shouldn't be especially weird, right?"
"People do this for fun?"
>Another snort escapes the giggling girl.
>"Of course, you dummy! Nothing has to be romantic, it's just the two of us, going out together and having a good time."
>You frown.
"How is this any different than hanging out?"
>Biting her lip again, Brenda tucks a bit of hair behind her ear, twirling it around her finger.
>"It, uh, it's not really, I guess. It's just that we'll be together. In public. Doing things. Together. In public."
>She's repeating herself.
>And that glassy look in her eyes probably isn't healthy.
>With a sigh, you wave your hand and nod.
"Okay, I'll go on a date with you."
>That snaps her out of her daze real quick.
>"You, you will!?"
"Yeah, sure."
>Brenda's smile could probably light up a city block.
>"Awesome!"
>With a quick cough, she frowns and shrugs.
>"I-I mean, cool. Call me tonight, we'll work out the details."
"Sure. Talk to you later."
>You walk by her and head down the hall.
>For once, she doesn't follow.
>It feels really weird.
>Glancing back, just to be sure that you're alone, you see Brenda clenching her fists and bouncing up and down in place.
>...Girls are weird.


-4-
>The weekend is finally here!
>Normally that would full of avoiding responsibilities and shouting at squawky pre-teens and grumbling 30-somethings over the internet.
>But not this weekend.
>Somehow, someway, you managed to land a date.
>With Brenda.
>Somehow you're not especially happy about that.
>Or it could be the nerves.
>Considering your jittery fingertips, it's probably the nerves.
>You wipe your palms on your jeans for the umpteenth time as you sit on the bench.
>The bustle of the mall surrounds you, making you feel somewhat claustrophobic, even among the wide walls and high ceiling.
"This is dumb."
>You mutter to yourself
"Why would anyone want to come to the mall? These people are spending money they don't have. I wish I was at home. My butt hurts."
>"Hey, Anon!"
>You're immediately jerked out of your funk by the familiar shout of Brenda.
>Grinning like the cat that caught the canary, the blue-haired girl hurries over to you.
>Something possess your legs and forces you to stand.
>A good thing, since Brenda all but crashes into you.
>On purpose, you're sure, judging from the still broad smile on her lips.
>"Sorry to make you wait."
"I, uh..."
>Quick think of something cool to say.
"I just got here."
>Brenda stares for a moment, then snorts and smacks your shoulder.
>"Pfft! If you're going to lie, at least put on a better face. No girl's ever going to buy that line with your face like that!"
>Your 'suave' grin falls flat like a bad souffle and you settle in for your traditional 'grumpy discontent' scowl
"Yeah, okay, whatever. Why are we out here again? I'm not the biggest fan of the mall."
>Brenda rolls her eyes but continues smiling.
>"Because it's easy; everything's in one place, and a girl can go where she feels comfortable with you."
"What about me and my comfort level?"
>Raising an eyebrow, your friend looks thoughtful for a moment before she shrugs.

>"I dunno, I figure most of the time you go out on a date, you'll be looking to get into the girl's pants."
>...How high school of a response is that?
"Really?"
>"Seems to go that way. But,"
>Grabbing your arm, she tugs you away from the bench.
>"Come on, I've only got you for the afternoon, and I want to make the most of it.
>A whole afternoon?
>You don't bother to hide your sigh, but Brenda completely misses it.
>Of course, one of the first places she takes you is a clothing store.
>One of those weird alternative-but-not places, where everything looks like it's been preworn but comes with a sixty dollar price tag.
>She doesn't even bother to try anything on, just asks your opinion on a bunch of different shirts and jackets.
>What do you know about women's clothing?
>Not much.
>And it shows, seeing as how Brenda begins to get a little put off by your lack of interest.
>After a thirty-minute eternity, she pulls you out of the store, sighing.
>"Okay, step one, we need to work on your ability to be engaged while out, because this whole 'oh, I don't know, whatever' thing? Totally unattractive."
>Wrinkling your nose, you roll your eyes.
"Brenda, how am I supposed to be attractive to you? We've known each other for ages."
>"Yeah, well..."
>She pauses, scowling a little still.
>"Not so much lately. You know, since Junior High?"
>True, the two of you had been especially close through your early school days, but things had tapered off.
>She got girlfriends.
>You found other interests.
>In reality, the wheels had kind of fallen off of your relationship.
>Which is why it's weird that she started hanging around you again at the beginning of the year.
"That long?"
>You brush her off with as noncommittal a response as you can manage.
>Honestly, you'd rather not remember those years.
>Brenda clicks her tongue and sighs.
>"Yeah, that long. Anyway, lets duck in here and we'll try this exchange again, so that I can coach you and you can get it right this time."

"Ugh."
>The second store is certainly not Brenda's speed, skirts, dresses, flashy tops and pink.
>A lot of pink.
>You both earn your fair share of looks as you walk through the store, Brenda scrounging for something, anything, that she might like.
>At last, and with a reluctant sigh, she lifts a sleeveless blue dress with a rather short hemline.
>"What do you think does it suit me?"
>The blue-haired girl raises an eyebrow as you scrunch up your forehead again.
"I guess."
>"You guess."
>Brenda sighs, shaking her head.
>"Your guessing isn't good enough. What do you think about the dress?"
>Really?
>You rub at one of your eyes and sigh.
"It's terrible, and you'd look awful in it."
>Brenda flinches, gritting her teeth.
>"H-hey now, watch my ego, would you?"
>Walking over to the rack, you nudge her out of the way and begin digging.
>It takes a few moments, but you finally find another dress, this one a light, pale green.
>This is better.
>You hold it out to her and say as much.
"It's a short skirt, so you'll be showing a lot of arm, back, and leg. With your skin tone, that blue looks a little trashy, but you'd look good in this color."
>Brenda's expression shifts from pained, to surprised, to a little stunned as she looks at the dress.
>At once, you become abundantly aware that the eyes of the store goers are fixated on you.
>Crap, you've totally beefed it!
>With an anxious laugh, you try to brush your comments away.
"I-I mean, if you wanted, you know."
>"Do you-"
>There's a hesitancy in Brenda's voice as she looks up at you.
>"Do you really think I'd look good?"
>The pause stretches for several seconds, before she shakes her head and continues.
>"In this dress?"
"It's not really your style."
>"But you do think I'd look nice?"
>When you remain silent, the girl's lip curls into a small smile.
>"I see. Maybe I'll have to come back and check again later."
>Hanging the dress up on the rack, Brenda tugs you out of the store.
>Once you're out of sight, she laughs.

>"Hah, oh man, what's wrong with you, bro?"
"What, what do you mean?"
>Flashing a smile back at you, the red-faced girl shakes her head and laughs again.
>"You've got no tact at all. It's no wonder you haven't been able to get a date."
"Yeah, well, you shouldn't ask questions like that then."
>"Those are standard date questions, Anon. But, it wasn't all bad-"
>There's a light pressure as Brenda squeezes your hand.
>"you just have to learn how to not run your mouth and say more sweet things."
"...Like what?"
>Shaking her head, the girl steps closer to you and chuckles.
>"Sorry bro, I can't spoonfeed you all the answers; you'll have to figure that one out on your own."
>...Girls.
>Rubbing your back, you glance around the mall.
>It doesn't feel quite as small anymore.
"Where to next then?"
>"I'm starved, so we should hit up the food court."
"Doesn't sound very date-like."
>"Yeah, well if this was a real-real date, I'd make you take me out to eat and pay the bill!"
>She gives you a playful jab in the chest with her finger.
>"As it stands, we're going dutch, okay?"
>Fine by you.
>The two of you separate once you arrive at the court, going to buy your respective meals.
>You go with your old standby, and spot Brenda after you get through the line, already eying up her own meal.
>An overly greasy burger and fries, are you really surprised?
>And this is the girl who's supposed to lecture you on being tactful...
>At least she brought napkins.
>After a few moments of grub-filled silence, Brenda wipes her mouth and fingers and gives you a grin.
>"So, it's not that bad, right?"
"Hmm?"
>"The date, dumbo."
"Oh, yeah."
>You put down your fork and shrug.
"It's not as bad as I thought it would be, I guess. The company's nice."
>The girl across from you breaks eye contact, glancing away and smiling.
>"Yeah, I guess so too."
>Back into silence.
>Awkwardness gradually turns your guts into knotted organs, but Brenda doesn't seem fazed at all.
>She just keeps, looking at you.

>Not in the normal kind of way, but this sort of sidelong glance where she looks away if you try to meet her eyes.
>It's incredibly uncomfortable.
>Quick, think of something to say!
>...
>Crap! You've got nothing!
>Your eyes dart about the food court, desperate for some kind of sign that could save you from this icy fate.
>And then, just as you're about to give up hope, you find it!
>With renewed confidence, you lean forward.
>To your surprise, Brenda does as well.
>You actually have her full attention.
>Perfect.
>Lifting your hand, you point off to the side.
"So, aren't you going to say hi to your friends?"
>Brenda's face goes from cheery to drained in an instant.
>She visibly gulps, turning her head slightly to the side.
>You do the same.
>Yep, there they are.
>Applejack and Rainbow Dash, right where you left them.
>And they seem to be watching the two of you rather intently.
>While you're still staring, you feel Brenda clutch at your hand.
>"Hey, Anonymous?"
>Glancing back, you see that she seems a little put off by the sudden appearance of her friends.
>"I'm feeling pretty full, so we should get going, okay?"
>You glance down at your plate.
"But I've still got-"
>"Please."
>The gentle, almost pained smile on Brenda's face somehow satisfies what's left of your hunger.
>With a small nod, you get up and allow Brenda to lead you to the next spot.
>But as you glance over your shoulder before you round the corner
>You see the two girls following behind you.


-5-
>Together with Brenda, you hurry through the waves of people muttering their way through the mall.
>There's a concerned, almost frantic look in the girl's eyes as she occasionally glances back.
>Searching for her friends, probably.
>But, that doesn't really make a lot of sense.
"Hey, Brenda?"
>"Yeah?"
"You seem tense."
>"You think?"
>There's a small, lilting smile on her lips that somehow belies the anxiety that was there before.
"Yeah."
>"Well, maybe a little."
"Want to tell me what's going on?"
>Brenda bites her lip, then turns her eyes forward again.
>"At the next stop. I'll do it there."
>Girls and their games.
>And so, you're lead through the mall, to the small cinema located against one of the back walls.
>It's not much, just a four theater setup, but it gets the job done.
>Most of the time.
>Brenda's muttering with the cashier as you stand around, waiting for some clue on what to do.
>At once, the blue haired girl shoves a ticket in your face.
>"Here."
"I thought we were paying our own way?"
>Brenda's face contorts for a moment before she laughs and pushes you towards the theater hall
>"You can buy snacks, now come on!"
>Aw man
>How do you get stuck with the most expensive part?
>The two of you move into the assigned room, alone save for a handful of matinee viewers.
>The room seems kind of dead, to be honest.
>Brenda pulls you away towards the top of the aisle, and pushes you into a secluded corner.
>It's going to be really hard to see the movie from here.
"Brenda?"
>She gives a gentle grunt.
"Wouldn't it be better to sit towards the middle?"
>The rocker gives you a suspicious look.
>"Are you serious?"
"Well, yeah. How are we supposed to see the movie otherwise?"
>After a moment of confusion, she chuckles and shakes her head.
>"Anonymous, you're a good guy, but you're really not that bright."
>Ouch.
>As if for emphasis, Brenda gives you a gentle shove into a seat near the corner and sits down next to you.
>The armrest between you jiggles.

>And then it rises.
>Until it's gone, and the only thing separating you from Brenda is open space.
>Which she quickly fills by moving over and resting her head on your shoulder.
>"Being away from everyone else lets me do things like this."
>She glances up towards you with a smirk.
>"And, if I really liked you, I could do more if I felt like it."
>The knot in your stomach suddenly makes a reappearance.
>Between the not-so-subtle come on and fear of your own body odor, you begin to settle into a panic.
>But the cold air in the movie theater dries out the sweat before it can escape your pores, leaving you shivering.
>And Brenda provides a good distraction as well when she starts talking again.
>"Hey, you remember how I said this was like a mock date?"
"Mm, yeah."
>"Well, I may have said something about it to Applejack."
>Well, that explains everything!
>Wait, no it doesn't...
"And?"
>The blue-haired girl buzzes her lips a little before shrugging.
>"And she said that I probably shouldn't."
"But here you are."
>Brenda nods.
>"Here I am. I guess she came along to check up on me."
>Hmm
>While that's a good start, it's not everything.
>Before you can probe deeper, Brenda gives you a small shove.
>"Hey, go grab some snacks, okay?"
>Crap.
>You'd hoped she'd forgotten.
"Anything in particular?"
>Brenda purses her lips, then smiles.
>"One popcorn, one drink, and whatever box candy you feel like getting."
>You flinch a bit, gritting your teeth.
>That's going to be like thirty bucks once you factor in your own order.
"Couldn't you just, pay for your own like we planned?"
>The girl cocks her head to the side, then smiles.
>"Oh, I think you're confused. That order's not for me, it's for us."
>Leaning in closer, she touches her chin to your shoulder and murmurs,
>"To share."
>Share?
>She means...
>You gulp.
"Popcorn and candy I can understand. But, a d-d-drink?"
>Brenda gives a coy smile and bobs her head.

>"Even if it's a mock date, we're trying to simulate a real one. Which means that you're going to get cozy with me up here, and we're going to share everything, okay?"
>One last shot.
"But you said you were full."
>"And you said you could still eat some more, so I'll just pick over what you don't."
>Giving your arm a playful squeeze, she nods towards the door.
>"Now go and grab'em, all right?"
>Ah, how did things come to this?
>You stagger out of the theater and towards the concession stand.
>Gritting your teeth, you mumble and order to the clerk behind the desk, who rings you up, then goes about getting things ready.
>Somehow, you still feel like Brenda got off light on buying just the tickets.
>As you're half-leaning on the counter, you feel someone bump into you from behind.
>You turn to apologize, only to find yourself staring down at a mess of rainbow-colored hair.
>Dash smirks up at you.
>"Well, well, if it isn't Casanova himself. How you doing, Anonymous?"
"Oh, uh..."
>Witty response not found.
>The words die in your throat as the mock cheerfulness of Rainbow Dash seems to drop away.
>The sporty girl frowns up at you, obviously sizing you up before glancing down the hall.
>"You're here with Brenda, right?"
>Huh?
>Oh, right.
>They're looking for her.
>Time to throw them off the scent.
"Uh, yeah."
>Wait, that's not what you meant!
>Dash raises an eyebrow, then smirks and nods.
>"I guess you're either pretty dopey or honest to a fault. Mind taking me to her?"
"I'd rather not."
>If your unintended honesty had warmed her heart, your actually feelings turned her cold again.
>"Yeah? Well maybe we need to have a little chat with you first then."
>Gulp.
>Rainbow pulls you aside, pinning you between her arms and her body.
>She's certainly not girlishly slender like most of the other female students at CHS, but she's not built either.
>You could push through her if you wanted.
>...Probably.
>"Do you have any idea of what you're doing?"

>Dash's question give you pause as you look over her irritated expression.
>Even with her rather cold attitude, her words are still laced with feeling.
>Frowning, you look into her eyes.
"Explain it to me."
>The sporty girl stares for a moment before taking a step back.
>Bringing her thumb and forefinger to her chin, she takes a deep breath, sighs, and meets your eyes again.
>"You're out here with Brenda, right?"
"Yeah, I already said as much."
>"J-just cool it! I'm making a point!"
>Dash grits her teeth for a moment, the props her hands on her hips.
>"So, you're out here with her. Do you like her?"
>Do you?
>You shrug.
"A little, I guess. We're friends."
>As awkward as that term is, it probably still applies here.
>Rainbow huffs and looks away.
>"Well that's a mess then."
"What do you mean?"
>"Pinkie."
>Wh... ah.
>Right.
>According to Brenda, Pinkie has some level of interest in you.
"Is it really that big of a deal?"
>If you could store the shock on Rainbow's face, you could sell lightening in a bottle.
>"Uh, yeah, it's a really big deal!"
>The ponytailed girl takes a step towards you.
>"It's absolutely a big deal, friends don't do that to other friends!"
>Wait, what?
"What?"
>Gritting her teeth, Rainbow grabs you by the shoulders and snaps,
>"Friends don't steal other friends' crushes!"
>What?
"What?"
>"WHAT!?"
>You and Rainbow both turn to see Applejack and Brenda standing at the other end of the booth.
>The blue-haired girl is red-faced, her jaw hanging slack as she shakes off her daze and steps forward.
>"This, this isn't stealing boyfriends, is it?"
>Rainbow frowns, completely forgetting about you and storming over to the other girls.
>"It's totally about that! You're up to your old snatching tricks again."
>Gritting her teeth, Brenda stands her ground and goes nose to nose with the sporty girl.
>"I've never, ever stolen anyone's boyfriend!"
>"What about my junior high date? The one that never happened because he started dating you?"

>Scrunching up her face Brenda snaps back.
>"Rainbow, you don't date guys, you don't even like them!"
>"Well maybe I would if I'd had the chance; but we'll never know now, will we?"
>You gulp, wondering if you should run away or stay for the inevitable catfight.
>Fortunately or not, Applejack takes that moment to clear her throat and push the two girls apart.
>"All right now, that's about enough of that."
>Dash is the first to try and reignite the conflict.
>"AJ, you can't be okay with Brenda swooping in again and taking another girl's prospective boyfriend!"
>"I'm not too keen on it,"
>the yokel admits,
>"but she's not wrong about you being as queer as a three-dollar bill."
>Rainbow Dash crinkles her nose and scowls as she crosses her arms over her chest.
>"'m not gay..."
>"That being said."
>Applejack looks back to Brenda, her eyes revealing the rather heated attitude underneath the cool exterior.
>"I don't know what your game is, but you best stop playing it. Nobody's gonna walk away happy if Pinkie finds out you snatched up the boy she's been eying."
>Brenda locks eyes with AJ for a long while before sighing and looking away.
>"...I guess I should talk to her."
>"I reckon so. Well, we'll leave you two to it then. C'mon Dash."
>The blonde grabs her friend by the collar, tugging her out of the theater, much to the sporty girl's distress.
>Which leaves you alone with Brenda.
>And the concessions vendor.
>The silence lingers for several seconds before you take a small step forward.
"Bren-"
>"Anonymous?"
>She cuts you off with a small smile.
>"If, if it's all right, maybe we should end our date here."
>Your face twitches a little.
"But I've got questions."
>"Yeah, and I've got to think up how I want to answer them."
"Brenda-"
>The girl holds up her hand and shakes her head.
>"Anon, thanks for this afternoon, but I really need to clear my head. I'll call you tonight, we can meet up, and I'll tell you everything."

>She lets out a shaky breath and looks into your eyes with a weak smile.
>"I just, can't do it right now; but tonight, I promise."
>All you can really do is nod as the rocker turns on her heel and marches out of the theater.
>You watch her leave, and remember something she'd said a few days ago.
>A smile slides across your lips.
"I guess I really don't have any backbone then, huh?"
>Somehow, the words sting a little more than they did before.
>As you sulk, the vendor clears his throat.
>"Hey, you gonna take these or not?"
"What's your return policy?"
>"Don't got one."
"So I can't get my money back?"
>A quick shake of the head is all you get.
"...Yeah I'll take them."
>Without any clue what else to do, you take the concessions and move back to the theater.
>The film was pretty terrible too.
>At least with Brenda, it might have been tolerable.
>But for now, all you can do is wait.


-6-
>It came around seven that night.
>The call from Brenda.
>She seemed better, and said that she was ready to talk.
>Of course, she wanted to meet up somewhere familiar, and suggested the park.
>As you traipse along the trail towards the designated meeting point, you're reminded again
"I hate the park."
>It's not an especially bad place, lush green in some places, old trees, a quiet stream.
>SMACK!
>You wince as your hand leaves a stinging mark on your neck.
>Those bugs though...
>Still, you make it to the picnic shelter and find Brenda already there.
>She's sitting on one of the tables, kicking her legs back and forth before she notices you.
>"Sorry for calling you out so late."
>Her usual wry smile seems a little subdued compared to usual.
"No problem."
>Maybe a little problem.
>Scooting over as you approach, she pats the small space beside her.
>It's an awkward squeeze, one that has you stretching your arms back behind you and putting your chests side by side, but you make it work.
>You're so close that you can feel every time she takes a breath.
>Brenda stares off into the gathering gloom, her smile gone and replaced with a vague, neutral expression.
>It doesn't take long for your anxiety to get the best of you.
"So, where do we start?"
>"Hmm?"
"The story, what's going on, anything."
>"Oh, that."
>She says it so matter of factly, as though it should be plainly obvious.
>And then she clams up again.
>But, while you consider egging her on again, she leans over and places her head on your shoulder again.
>"Hey, Anonymous, you know how I said Pinkie was interested in you?"
"Yeah?"
>"I may have not been entirely clear. She likes you."
>You nod a little and smile.
"Well, that's nice, I like her too. She's a sweet girl, if a little excitable."
>There's a momentary pause before you become aware of Brenda's eyes on you.
>"You really need to stop reading those chinese comics, you're as thick as one of their leads."

>When you cock your head to the side, the blue-haired girl sighs.
>"She likes you, Anonymous. As in, she's up for a romantic entanglement?"
"...What?"
>Sighing, the girl grabs your cheeks between her thumb and forefinger and scowls up at you.
>"She likes you and wants to date you!"
>It takes a few seconds, but your heart jumps up into your throat, leaving you breathless.
>You turn your head and cough a few times, earning a small laugh from Brenda.
>"I guess that's clear enough for you?"
>Wiping your hand across your mouth, you stare at her.
"But, why?"
>Brenda shrugs.
>"You caught her eye around the middle of last year when she realized she didn't know anything about you, not even a birthday."
>That smug smile reappears.
>"Considering this is Pinkie we're talking about, that's inexcusable."
"So she likes me, because she doesn't know me?"
>"It's not that simple, I guess."
>Brenda resumes kicking her legs.
>"I don't know if it's because you're a man of mystery, or she likes what she dug up, but she always stares at you."
>There's a pause as your friend stares down at her shoes.
"Where do you come into all this?"
>"She asked a few questions, I told her some answers."
>Brenda's blue eyes find yours again.
>"Or, are you asking about what happened at the theater today?"
>The tension in your gut is growing exceedingly more uncomfortable.
>It would be easy, no perhaps even best, if you didn't say anything and just let the conversation drop.
>But she's thrown that out there.
>You can't not ask at this point.
"Tell me about that."
>Brenda sighs, looking away.
>She brings her hand up to her head, tousling her hair as she stares off into space.
>"It wasn't a big thing, really."
>Glancing over at you, she frowns.
>"You think I'm pretty, right?"
"Does that have to do with the story?"
>With an amused snort, Brenda smirks.
>"Always with the wrong things to say at the right time, huh?"

>Hopping up from the table, the blue-haired girl steps her way alone one of the cracks running across the cement base.
>"Well, you don't have to agree, but a lot of guys at school thought I was. And, since girls tend to be interested in boys, I started going around with a lot of guys."
>The pause lasts all of a second before her head snaps up, along with her hands.
>"N-not like that, I mean! I just, went out with a lot of different guys. It was fun, made me feel nice and appreciated."
>Dropping her hands to her side, she leans up against another table and locks eyes with you.
>"It's selfish, I know, but I didn't really care at the time. And, I didn't really know how easy it was to get smitten. Or what it was like after."
>Your brain chugs along throughout the entire process, working slowly, until finally...
"So, when Rainbow said you stole her boyfriend-"
>"They weren't even dating."
>Brenda crosses her arms over her chest and scowls.
>"They made plans to go out after she finished her athletic season, and he just so happened to ask me out before that. But apparently that's boyfriend-stealing."
"Did you know?"
>The standoffish girl in front of you suddenly seems even more so, visibly bristling at the question.
"Did you know that they had something lined up?"
>Brenda at last looks away.
>"...Rainbow wouldn't stop talking about it."
>You sigh and rub your forehead with your fingertips.
"That, kind of sounds like boyfriend-stealing."
>At once, Brenda's attention snaps back to you, her face contorted into a frown.
>"Well call it whatever you want, but she's my friend and I felt awful about it. Once I found out he stood her up on account of me, I stopped going around like that!"
>Ah.
>Things are starting to make sense.
>Sort of.
"And, what about Pinkie?"
>A lengthy silence settles in under the awning.
>At last, Brenda clears her throat.
>"Th-that's different."
"How?"
>Her shoulders stiffen.
"How is that different?"
>"Because you're my friend too."

"Brenda, we hadn't even spoken in passing since before CHS."
>She clutches the wooden planks of the table, biting down on her lip.
>"Well, yeah; I know that. It's just that she was interested in you and because I had an in with you, it was easiest for me to approach you."
>Brenda smiles, brushing some hair out of her face.
>"I don't know if you're aware, but you're a real piece of work, Anon. You freak out over the littlest things, you sweat too much when you panic, you've got no backbone, and no tact."
>All things you've been concerned about before, but then she takes a breath and continues.
>"Your taste in free-time activities is horrible, you could stand to take better care of yourself, you're a sourpuss, a jerk, and you're only about as bright as a sack of hammers."
>Ouch, your ego.
>"But, in spite of that,"
>Brenda smiles.
>"Somehow, you manage to be sweet, you're unapologetic in who you are, and avoid giving people the run around. Pinkie thought it was refreshing."
>With a deep breath, Brenda trembles.
>"And, I realized how much I missed that part of you too."
>The girl blinks her eyes a few times, before laughing and turning away.
>"Oh gosh, sorry, hang on just a second, okay?"
>You sit in silence, watching as Brenda rubs at the edges of her eyes with her finger tips.
>Blinking a few times more, she takes another breath and turns back to face you.
>"So, that's that."
>Ah, of course.
>...
"I still don't get it."
>Brenda rolls her eyes.
>"I remembered why I liked you in the first place, Anonymous."
"No, no, I got that; I'm just kind of wondering about the whole date thing. If I'm right, you wanted to go out with me, right?"
>"No!"
>Brenda leans back, then grits her teeth and glances up at the roof.
>"Yeah. A little. Okay, a lot."
"But you didn't want to get accused of boyfriend-stealing again."
>She nods.
"But you did it anyway."
>Brenda remains silent, kicking her legs over the edge of the table again.
"So, why not just be direct about Pinkie?"

>"Pinkie's a carefree girl, she doesn't worry about much of anything. You, on the other hand, freak out over every little thing that gets to you. Can you imagine being out on your first date with her?"
>Lifting her finger, Brenda smiles.
>"Bakeries, sweet shops, party supply stores, clothes shopping, all places where she'd be hanging all over you because that's what she does. Imagine going in completely unprepared."
"That"
>You gulp.
"That sounds pretty horrible."
>"Right? So, once said you didn't feel comfortable going on a date with her, I thought it might be good to get your confidence up with some less intense girls. But you kept turning them down."
"So you threw your own hat into the ring?"
>"Yeah."
>Brenda's smile fades.
>"I wasn't really thinking at the time, I guess. I just wanted to be sure that you felt comfortable when Pinkie approached you for a date."
>Another pause.
"But?"
>Brenda huffs and looks away.
>"But I like your stupid attitude. I like the way you look at me. I like the way you bring up these old memories in me that I thought I'd forgotten."
>Tapping her shoes together, Brenda laughs.
>"I like that you make me feel like Brenda, and not 'B'. That's why I can't stand the idea of you calling me that."
>Standing, Brenda walks towards you.
>"B steals boyfriends, Brenda roughhouses with her boy friends. B has to work to keep herself unattainable so she doesn't hurt her friends. Brenda doesn't have to worry about that, because the ones she loves are her friends."
>Trembling, the blue-haired girl takes one of your hands and smiles.
>"In the end, B just isn't me."
>As her rant ends, you become suddenly aware of the burning sensation at the tips of your ears.
>And your nose.
>And all over your face and neck.
>The already teary-eyed girl laughs, biting her lip and shaking her head.
>"You look like you're about to burst."
>Her words do nothing if make you that much more embarrassed.
>But still, you stay in silence, holding her hand.

>Finally, you can't take it any more.
"Brenda, I think-"
>She quiets you with a squeeze of your hand.
>"Sorry, I know I kind of dumped all of that on you at once. I'm selfish like that. And it's not really fair to place all those feelings on you and expect them to be returned."
"Yeah, but-"
>"No, I don't want you to say anything right now. A lot of what I've said, can't go back. I can't be the girl who never stole boyfriends, just like I can't take back those years we never spoke. But, I'd like a chance to set things right, so I'm going to tell Pinkie about our date."
>Sliding her hand away from yours, Brenda smiles.
>"Chances are, she'll come talk to you, and I'd appreciate it if you spent some time with her; I think you'd really come to appreciate who she is."
>Taking a step back, she bites her lip.
>"But, deep down, I'd really, really like it if you didn't, and went out with me again. Exclusively. That's for you to decide though."
>You reach out after her, but she's already out of your grasp.
>With a small wave, Brenda smiles.
>"I hope to see you around, Anon."
>And she turns and walks away, leaving you on the picnic platform, still stunned.
>Well...
>What now?

-7-
>Things started rolling almost immediately.
>You weren't there when Brenda told Pinkie what had happened, but it was pretty clear when she did.
>The frizzy haired girl was at your side in an instant.
>She had been extremely attentive, as thought Brenda had hurt you somehow, giving you a great deal of her time.
>And, she really is a sweet girl.
>But that doesn't make the situation any less frustrating.
>The atmosphere around the school seems to be different from before, like something's changed.
>And not a small change either.
>You've seen Brenda a time or two since that night a week and a half ago, but she doesn't even look in your direction.
>She's usually off on her own too.
>It's kind of depressing.
>"So?"
>Shaking your head, you look down at the grinning Pinkie Pie.
"So, what?"
>She giggles.
>"So are you coming to the party tonight?"
>Giving a nervous smile, you shrug.
"I-I don't know, maybe?"
>"You should."
>Pinkie laughs, clutching to your arm.
>"I'd really like it if you did."
>Hoo boy...
>"And"
>Biting her lip the excitable girl wriggles about.
>"I know we'd get there at different times but maybe we could go, together?"
>Turning those big blue eyes up towards you, she blinks three times in rapid succession.
>Your heart seizes up in an instant.
>As if reading your mind, the party girl steps away and smiles.
>"Well, think about it at least, because I'd like to go with you. Give me a call, ooh! Or show up and surprise me and really sweep me off my feet! That would be so cute!"
>With a friendly wave, she hurries off down another hall towards her next class.
>Sighing, you watch her go and shake your head.
"How am I supposed to keep up with her? It can't be something you just learn, right?"
>As you're standing in the hall, you feel a familiar form bump into you.
>Turning, you see a rather unfocused Brenda shake off the glaze in her eyes before looking up at you.
>An uncertain smile dances across her lips as she chuckles.

>"Anon, bro, we really need to stop running into each other like this."
"...Hey Brenda."
>The two of you stare at one another in silence fore several seconds, before the blue-haired girl laughs again and sidesteps.
>"Well, uh, good seeing you. I guess I'll, see you later."
>As she moves to walk by you, something possess you to take hold of her wrist.
>She glances up at you.
"Can I walk with you for a while?"
>The tip of Brenda's tongue darts out, wetting her lips before she nods.
>"Yeah, sure."
>You turn, moving through the halls alongside her.
>She clutches a book close to her body, staring down at the floor.
>The silence is disturbing.
>Finally, you decide it's up to you to start.
"So, we haven't talked since that night."
>"Oh yeah? I guess it has been a while."
>You nod and frown at her.
"Are we going to do the whole drop out of each other's lives for five years thing again?"
>"No!"
>Brenda turns to you, eyes wide.
>Almost immediately, she looks away and sighs.
>"I mean, no, I wouldn't want that. It's just that things are a little heated right now; I'm waiting for this all to blow over and make right with everyone."
"You're just going to wait it out?"
>"I guess."
>Brenda stops and leans her back against a wall.
>The new position gives you prime position to stare into her eyes.
>"Doesn't that seem like the right thing to do?"
>Of course it seems like the right thing to do.
>It's entirely non-confrontational, and forces other people to do all of the work.
>Exactly something that you would do.
>Exactly what you're doing now by not committing one way or the other.
>Your heart twists a little in your chest at the thought.
>The right thing to do would be to tell Brenda to make right with her friends and not wait.
>But before she does that, you'd probably have to make a decision as well.
>After all, you're entangled in this mess too.
>Taking a deep breath, you frown at her.
"Brenda?"
>"Yeah?"
"You need to apologize to the girls. Especially to Pinkie."

>Crossing her arms over her chest, Brenda scowls at you.
>"As if I didn't already?"
"Not like that."
>You feel your palms start to sweat and rub them against your jeans.
"Like, really apologize. And not avoid them."
>"Yeah, but it hurts."
>Turning her head away, your friend glares down the hall.
>"I'd rather not be around the girls when they're mad at me."
"That's stupid."
>Brenda's eyes widen as she turns back to you.
>"What?"
"I said that's stupid. You're avoiding your friends because they're mad at you, but you're avoiding me too. I'm not mad at you."
>A quiet gulp escapes the girl.
"So, why are you so eager to be apart from me?"
>"It, it still hurts to see you."
>There's a ghost of a smile on Brenda's lips now.
>"I mean, pouring out my heart to you like that, it's not exactly something a girl feels comfortable doing. I put myself out there, but I feel like I'm out here all alone."
"Brenda."
>"I know, it's stupid. But, everything still feels so uncertain. I-"
>The girl lets out a shaky breath.
>"I'd really like to know, how you feel about me."
>So, it comes down to this, it's decision time.
>The needy Brenda? Or the clingy Pinkie?
"Brenda, I..."

[For Pinkie, go to "In The Pink"]
[For Brenda, go to "Stealing Hearts"]
[To mediate, go to "The 'Right' Thing"]
[For the mystery box, go to "A Dash Of Trouble"]


["The 'Right' Thing"]

>It's Friday night.
>You arrive at the party fashionably around the time it starts.
>Pinkie's already been there for hours, of course, but things are just getting started.
>Walking through the house, you spot the frizzy-haired girl still fine tuning some of the ins and outs of the party.
>"Shift speakers for the best sound, more streamers here..."
"Hey Pinkie."
>The party planner pauses, then turns her head and grins at you.
>"Nonnapuss!"
>With an excited squeal, she lunges at you, wrapping her arms around your middle.
>"Omigosh, you're here! You never called but you actually came!"
"Yeah, I'm here."
>The jitters are still rumbling about in your belly, but they're less pronounced now.
>Maybe you're getting used to talking to girls.
>Still, the touching makes you anxious.
>Squirming out of her grip, you smile at the excited girl.
"So, it looks like things are really going to uh..."
>Pinkie stares up at you, biting her lip and hanging on your every word.
>What a time for language to fail you.
>You struggle for the right word.
"Uh, get hopping."
>Pinkie blinks a few times, then giggles.
>"Get hopping? Anon, you're so weird! Nobody says that anymore."
"Oh, uh, right."
>Smooth.
>"So, so, so?"
>Pinkie grabs your arm and smiles.
>"Since we didn't talk beforehand, I wanted to know if you'd thought about what I said."
>Somehow, her hand snakes into yours without you noticing.
>It's warm and inviting, almost electric to the touch; just like the girl who owns it.
>"Could we, maybe be"
>There's a momentary pause as Pinkie blushes.
>"Together, maybe? Tonight?"
>You smile at her, feeling your anxiousness begin to peak.
"I-I'd like that, Pinkie."
>An excited sound between a squeak and a squeal escapes from the girl.
"But, I don't think I can."
>And almost as quickly, Pinkie deflates.
>Even her hair seems a little flatter.
>"Oh."
"It's not that I don't like you."
>She nods, rolling her eyes.
>"You don't have to explain."
"But I do. Will you listen?"

>Setting her lips into a thin line, Pinkie looks up at you again.
>Though she says nothing, she doesn't walk away either.
>Taking that as a good sign, you continue.
"I know things have been a little crazy, but I don't feel like dating is the right thing for me right now. Especially if it drives a wedge between friends."
>Even though she frowns, Pinkie's expression softens.
>"What do you mean?"
"Well, Brenda's been feeling out of sorts lately, and it's kind of due to me. I"
>You sigh, rubbing at the back of your neck.
"I like both of you; you're really sweet girls, but it feels wrong to put one of you on the outside looking in."
>The corner of Pinkie's lip turns up.
>"So in the end, you're not going to choose either?"
"I-I guess not."
>Giggling, Pinkie shakes her head.
>"Brennie was right about you, Anon. You're a sweetie with absolutely no sense of timing."
>You laugh, watching as the party girl returns to her usual, upbeat self.
>"So, did you tell her too?"
"Yeah, a couple days ago."
>"Good. That means I can pester her until she shows up!"
>With a bounce in her step, Pinkie hurries away, already click-clacking on her phone.
>There's a twist in your chest as you watch her leave, knowing that you probably blew a great opportunity.
>Ah, Brenda didn't look too pleased with your answer when you told her either, so that makes two.
>Still, when the blue-haired girl finally shows up, Pinkie embraces her and the two get to talking.
>It's enough to do the right thing and just let this slide, right?
>Things will work out.
>Right?

[Ending #1 - The Cop-Out]


["In the Pink"]

>After speaking with Brenda, you call Pinkie up that night.
>"Hidie-ho, Annono! So did you think about what I asked?"
"I did."
>Stretching out on your bed, you smile up at the ceiling.
"Pinkie, do you like Brenda?"
>There's a momentary pause.
>"Of course I like Brennie, she's my friend. I'm just, a little upset with her right now."
"I can understand that. It's over me, right?"
>"A little, you were the tipping point, for sure."
"So, if things with me are resolved, then you and the rest of the girls can get along with Brenda again?"
>"It would help."
>Another pause.
>"Anon, you aren't planning on saying you won't date either of us, right?"
"What? No!"
>"Okay good!"
>Her laughter echoes over the receiver.
>"I don't know if that would have been the best solution."
"Well, I guess I won't beat around the bush then; Pinkie, I'd like to go with you to the party this Friday."
>The phone jerks away from your ear as the girl on the other end lets loose an almost inhuman squeal.
>That goes on.
>And on.
>And on...
>"ARE YOU SERIOUS!?"
"Y-yeah."
>You hold the phone to your other ear, the first still ringing from Pinkie's enthusiasm.
"And, if it's all right, I'd like to go out with you on Saturday too."
>"Out?"
"Out. Just the two of us."
>A lingering silence before Pinkie lets out a shaky breath.
>"Anonymous that... that sounds great. I can't wait."
"Neither can I. See you Friday?"
>"Mm, see you!"
>The line goes dead and you stare up at the ceiling.
>Now it's just a waiting game to see what happens next.

>Over the next few days, Pinkie tries to talk with Brenda more frequently.
>The blue-haired girl goes to great lengths to ignore her, but this is Pinkie Pie we're talking about here.
>Inevitably, Brenda breaks down.
>The two make up before the weekend even starts.
>The rest of the girls follow in short order, except for Rainbow Dash, who seems content to keep her at arms length.
>The party on Friday is great, you have a wonderful time together with Pinkie, and without her as well.
>Saturday goes smashingly, and the two of you make it a weekly thing.
>Word gets out pretty quickly that you're dating each other, and while most of the school can't make sense of it, they're impressed.
>You gradually become more comfortable around everyone, and even make a few really good friends.
>There's no telling if things with Pinkie are going to last, she can still wear you out in an instant when she gets going.
>But on the whole it's a pleasant, if exhausting, relationship.
>The only problem is...
>Whenever you're together, you can't shake the feeling that Brenda's still staring at you.

[Ending #2 - Sugar, Spice, and Everything Nice]


["Stealing Hearts"]

"Brenda, I..."
>You sigh.
"You can't just come around and ask people something like that."
>"I know."
>Brenda gives a forced smile.
>"But it's really difficult for me to make peace with this without knowing where you stand."
>Muttering to yourself, you slide a hand against your pant leg again.
"No matter how I answer this question, somebody's going to get hurt."
>"Yeah,"
>Nodding her head, Brenda reaches out and takes one of your hands in hers.
>It's cool to the touch, with slight callouses from uncountable hours of guitar practice.
>"But that's the way things are some times. I won't be mad, I promise. A little miffed, maybe, but no matter what, I'll always be your friend."
>You begin to nod, but then shake your head.
"No, I, I can't do that."
>Brenda frowns, squeezing your hand.
>"Anon-"
"I don't think I can just be friends with you. I don't want to see you hurting like that again."
>The girl stares for a moment, then bites her lip as her cheeks begin to color.
>"We, we all hurt sometimes, Anon. You can't be together with someone and not expect them to get hurt."
"Then I want to hurt with you."
>The red spreads from her cheeks to her entire face in an instant.
"I don't want you to feel like you're alone, and if that means you need a little help staying on the straight and narrow, I want to be there too."
>Brenda stares for a moment, then laughs and shakes her head.
>"Oh, you're a quick study, bro."
>Squeezing your hand in hers, she steps closer to you and smiles.
>"Those words are so sweet, I think I'm stuck to you."
>With a shaky sigh, you squeeze her hand back.
"Brenda..."

>Things are difficult to smooth over with the rest of the girls.
>Pinkie, while not distraught, certainly seems to be lackluster for a few days.
>A couple times you hear her muttering to herself while she stares at Brenda.
>Needless to say, you skip the party on Friday.
>But Brenda does too, and you both have a date night instead.
>Granted, it mostly consists of hanging out and watching Netflix on the couch, but it's comfy.
>Once Pinkie's over it though, the rest of the girls make peace as well.
>Even Rainbow Dash, though you suspect that she's keeping a closer eye on Brenda.
>All the better, as you're finding that the blue-haired rocker can be quite the handful.
>Still, there are worse ways to go through the day than with your best friend sticking close to your side.
>And the way she tousles your hair when your head is in her lap and a terrible movie's on?
>All but divine.
>You're not the most popular guy in school for your decision, but you're comfortable with it.
>In the end, isn't that what matters?

[Ending #3 - Husbando Snatching]


["A Dash of Trouble"]

>It's Friday night
>Brenda arrives at Pinkie's party shortly after things get into full swing.
>The frizzy-haired girl is, at the very least, somewhat surprised to see her there.
>"Brennie?"
>"Hey Pinkie."
>The two girls stare at one another, shuffling about awkwardly.
>"So, why are you here?"
>"Anonymous asked me to come. Said he had something to tell me."
>Pinkie's eyes light up.
>"Nonny told me that too! Have you seen him yet?"
>"Not a bit, what about you?"
>Brenda sighs and her friend shakes her head.
>"It figures, he's so unreliable."
>"Aw, c'mon Brennie, it's not that bad. I'm sure that a sweetie like Anon won't keep us waiting long."
>And there's your cue.
>You step out from the shadows of the second floor and clear your throat.
>Both girls look up at you, a mixture of surprise, excitement, and even a little fear on their faces.
"Ladies."
>"Noingo-Boingo!"
>"Sup bro."
>Grinning, you put a hand on your hip.
"I just wanted to let you both know what's going on, since things have been so confusing lately."
>The girls lean forward.
>Lavishing in the attention, you reach off to the side and pull out
>"Dashie!?"
>"Rainbow!"
>The chromatic-cutie wiggles her fingers at her friends.
>"H-hey girls."
>Pinkie scrunches up her nose.
>"Non-non, what's this about?"
"Oh, I was just introducing you to my date for the night."
>Pinkie's jaw drops while Brenda's face contorts into a scowl.
>"Bro, she's not into you. She's about as straight as a rainbow!"
>"I'm not gay!"
>Brenda rolls her eyes, to which Rainbow growls and grabs you by the face.
>Down below, Brenda and Pinkie's faces go white as Dash engages a kiss that would challenge a locksmith to break.
>After several long, agonizing seconds, she breaks away.
>Panting, she jabs a finger down at them.
>"See!? I told you! Not! Gay!"
>Things get kind of crazy after that...

>And by crazy, of course, you mean that Brenda and Pinkie lose their god-damned minds and charge up the stairs and begin hitting you.
>Underneath the hail of blows, you laugh the night away.
>Things go steadily south from there.
>The rest of the girls make up with Brenda before the party's even over.
>Rainbow, now that it's out there that she isn't entirely lesbian, eagerly goes out with some of the more attractive guys in her clique.
>Which leaves you alone.
>With your mangos.
>Again.
>Snapping open the latest TPB of Super Love Awesome Plus Plus, you smile to yourself.
"2-D, now that's the life for me. 3-D, pig disgusting."
>All is right with the world.
>Except that prickly feeling at the back of your neck whenever Pinkie or Brenda begin to stare at you.
>Maybe you should have thought this through more...
>Nah.

[Ending #4 - If It Ain't Broke...]