The Feeling Isn't... Mutual...

>Be Anon
>You've gotten close to Pinkie recently.
>She is a really close friend. A friend.
>The two of you walk together in the park casually during a Picnic she wanted to have.
>She made her perfect cup cakes as always. One day you'll ask how she makes them.
>"Do you like them? I didn't know what your thoughts were on Strawberry but I was feeling EXTRA creative this week."
"God Dammit Pinkie, you make bad ass cup cakes. I love you!"
>She always giggled at your cursing. Your exaggerations were humorous to her.
>During her giggling though, there was an awkward silence as you finished your sentence.
>"D-do y..."
>She falls onto her back, seemingly fainted.
"Pinkie?"
>You poke the bottom of her left hind leg that sticks out to you.
>It awakens her immediately. Maybe she was just exaggerating. Wouldn't be the first time.
>Rather than sprinting up, she gasped for air and tears begin to well in her eyes.
>">do you *sniffle* really love me Anon?"
>Wot?
"Uh, I uh..."
>She starts to giggle happily, jumping from the grass and quickly hugging you.
>"OhMyGoshOhMyGoshOhMyGosh I love you too!!!"
>The amount of joy on her face is excessive, even for her.
"Wait... I uh"
>She starts to trail off, talking about her lasting crush on you for the past few months.
>You lift a finger to try an object but she won't stop talking.
>Jesus Christ, this is going to be a pain in the ass.
"Um, Pinkie..."
>No response.
"Pinkie?!"
>No response.
"PINKIE PIE!!!"
>She finally turns her head to you, blushing bright red over her soft pink skin.
>As adorable as she was, she wasn't your love interest.
"I didn't mean 'love' like 'love love'. I meant it like, 'friend love'. Because you're an awesome friend."
>Her hair deflates to smooth bangs and the light in her face fades.
>"Oh... Woops..."
"Pinkie, wai-"
>"No, it's fine. I understand. Sorry... I um..."
>There is a moment of silence in the park that is filled with the sound of the calming breeze.
>"I think I will just go.
>You sit in silence as the Pink mare turns a corner and is left unseen past the obstruction of bushes and trees.
>Well shit.
>You look at the picnic set that lays in front of you.
>You're tempted to take another bite of the cupcake but after what just happened, you are disinterested. It hurts your stomach almost.
>You start to pack up the blanket and food into the basket she brought nearby.
>Walking with the basket in your hand, you leave the park the opposite way she did, hoping to clear your mind with a walk.
>I hope that didn't screw anything up.
----------------------------------------------------------------
>A week later from that incident and you have yet to hear from Pinkie, or any of her friends.
>You are out to grab a drink for yourself at a nearby bar.
>The drinks are nothing compared to Earth's, but it will have to do.
>As you walk, a familiar, friendly face meets yours.
"Hey Fluttershy!"
>She notices and looks around frantically for something.
>An escape?
>As you approach her calmly, she ducks her head in a useless hiding position.
"Um, Fluttershy? You alright?"
>She looks up at you for a moment, looking around slightly more relaxed, and releases a breath of relief.
>You remain silent but the way your eye brows raise imply that you ask the question once more.
>"Um... Hey Anon. I'm not really supposed to be talking with you..."
>Oh hell no. She better not of.
"What do you mean?"
>I swear to God Pinkie Pie.
>"I heard about last week and I just... The general agreement is that we shouldn't talk to you."
>She doesn't usually speak in such a sophisticated manner. Did one of the unicorns have a part in this?
>"I'm sorry Anon, I have to go."
>She squeals, backs away, and then starts to quickly walk past you.
>You are tempted to follow but she won't budge. Not yet
>But, an honesty pony might...
>Your thoughts switch to Applejack as you start to walk over to Sweet Apple Acres.
>Opening the large barn doors, you find Applejack cleaning up the large, unused shed.
>You never understood why they had it anymore. It simply laid old, barren, and wasteful. Just another thing to clean up for the sake of it.
>Applejack doesn't know of your presence just yet.
"Hey Applejack."
>Your voice interrupts the peace and quiet that previously filled the room. It startles Applejack.
>She turns around and arms herself with a broom and a duster that she happened to have in her hooves.
>Her offensive stature is met with your eyebrow raising, unimpressed.
>"Oh, it's just you Anon. What did ah tell you 'bout sneaking up on me?"
>Nothing actually. Not that you can remember. But you were too preoccupied with other matters to worry about that. Besides, why would she lie?
>"Anyways, what can ah do for yuh?"
>What exactly DID you want from her? You know the problem, but you just suddenly decided Applejack would be a good candidate to ask.
"So, I was wondering about a few of our friends."
>"Yeah?"
>Why was she not trying to ignore you like Fluttershy had done, or all of the rest of them seemingly had?
"Do you happen to know why they are ignoring me?"
>She seemed confused, proving so with a head tilt.
>"What'cha mean Sugarcube?"
"Well..."
>How do you even explain a situation as childish as this?
"Did you hear about what happened with me and P-Pinkie?"
>"Yep. Heard all 'bout it from Dash."
>You feel your cheeks go red. It wasn't your fault, but damn it sucked having to do.
>Throughout the week, you wondered what would of happened if you went with it. If maybe you would have been happy with Pi-
>NOPE. SHUT THE FUCK UP
"Huh... Fluttershy said she isn't allowed to talk to me for whatever reason. I thought that the situation at hand might of been the reason."
>"Sorry sweetie, I haven't been involved 'n anything. Ah've been too busy with the barn all week."
>Damn. Who would I go to next then?
>"You could try asking Twilight about it."
>Hm...
>You nod at Applejack.
"Thanks."
>"Sure thing, honey."
>You wave to her as you begin walking away from her barn, leaving her to clean.
>As you walk, your questions grow in numbers but you start to care less and less.
>By the time you walk out of Sweet Apple Acres, your concern for the ponies attention dropped greatly. You let the worry ago, but keep it in the back of your mind.
>Maybe you should talk to Pinkie Pie. She should be doing better after a week, right?
>You nod to yourself, going home real quickly to grab the basket and head over to Pinkie's.
>As you approach the Bakery, a quick shudder washes over you.
>You aren't nervous, not the slightest! But it's a weird feeling you get when walking up the steps that lead to the bakery door.
>Almost like something has died.
>You open the door
>The room is dimmer than you remember it being, and all of the light's are on.
>"Hello?"
>"Hey Anon."
>Mr. and Mrs. Cake stand behind the counter.
>The room is quiet. There is an uneasy tension laying in it. They have a look on their face resembling a desire to greet you more joyfully as usual, but holding back for some reason.
>'Some reason', you know the reason.
"Um, I was hoping that I could talk to Pinkie and give her basket back."
>They look at each other, unsure of what they should respond with.
>After a few whispers, they return to you, and Mrs. Cake is the one to speak up.
>"Sure thing dear. She is upstairs, second door on the left."
>They smile uneasily, loosing confidence in their answer.
>Better start heading up before they change their mind.
"Thanks."
>You start up the stairs. They didn't need to tell you where her room was, you've been there before plenty of times.
>The two of you would hang out and talk in her room for hours.
>Really, you listened while she told fast and barely cohesive stories.
>It was fun to try and keep up. Not to mention she told good tales.
>1, 2...
>As you approach the door, your steps become slower and further between.
>You reach for the door knob slowly to grasp it but stop yourself.
>It is a force of habit. You always just walked in because you and Pinkie had that bond, that trust as friends.
>Pulling away from the door knob, you make your hand into a fist and lightly tap on the door.
>"Come in"
>It doesn't really sound like Pinkie. It's too monotone. Lacks hype.
>It lacks Pinkie Pie.
>You put your hand on the door knob and creak the door open.
>She doesn't turn to you. Her hair lays in bangs, her lights are off, and she leans on her bed.
>Playing catch with the wall across from her, she moves nothing but her eyes in an effort to see who it is.
>Upon noticing you, her cheeks flush a slight shade of red, and the ball hits her in the head.
>The expressionless look on her face drops to a small frown, feeling clumsy after the ball hit her head.
>Where do you begin?
>"Oh, hey Anon. What's up?"
>In contrast to her vanilla voice from earlier, it moved to a depressed and self pity whimper.
>Is this your fault? Are you the asshole in this situation?
>No no no, you don't like her and she has to respect that, she is blowing this way out of proportion.
>You try to find a medium in between the two sides your mind has taken but Pinkie interrupts your thought process before you can finish it.
>"Is there a reason you came over?"
>Her cheeks still hold a hint of red and the sadness is as strong as ever in her voice, but she manages to continue throwing the ball back and forth once more.
"Um, yeah. I wanted to talk about last Friday..."
>Her eyes roll. She's not surprised. It was bound to come eventually but she doesn't want to talk about it.
>She took it harder than you had originally thought.
>"What about it?"
"Well, I had some questions about the whole thing."
>"Shoot."
>Your eyes follow the ball's path for a moment before shaking your head and returning to focus.
"For starters... How long have you felt that way about me?"
>When the ball returns to her hoof, she pauses and thinks, still holding the ball in a throwing position.
>"I guess since maybe a month after I met you."
>She throws.
>Damn that's a while. Seven months? No one she must be taking it so hard.
"Why do you feel like this?"
>This time, she doesn't need to pause to tell you books full of reasons.
>"Because you are the only one that I feel comfortable being sad or mellow around. Because even if you find my weirdness quirky at times, you don't hate me for it..."
>You sit down on the edge of the bed, your back facing her.
>"... Because you understand that sometimes, even the happiest of them all needs a moment. You are smart, and socially awkward, and cute, and just awesome."
>You can feel the frown grow on her face and her head hang lower, still throwing the ball.
"Have you ever felt like this before?"
>The ball is more aggressively thrown on the ground and it bounces off the wall and ricochets around the room until the final bounce settles.
>You turn to see the pink mare silently sobbing into her forelegs, shaking her head from side to side.
>"N-Nuh uh..."
>Man I'm a dick.
>You begin petting her mane gently, separating the bangs.
>Suddenly, she turns and hugs you tightly around your stomach, sobbing as quietly as she can but she can't hold it in anymore.
>"Hic-hic..."
>The tears stain the shirt you're wearing, but you were planning on going to a bar with it earlier so you feel little concern if any.
>You hug the pony tightly.
>After her tears dissipate, she looks up to be met with your sympathetic eyes.
"I'm sorry Pin-"
>Before you finished your sentence, she lunged her self up to your face and kissed you real quickly.
>When she pulls back, the two of you seem expressionless. Confused most notably.
>You go to kiss her on her forehead but she once again kisses you on your lips.
>This time, you pull back.
>It's almost like you want to love her.
>The two of you look at each other, unknown of the other's thoughts. Unknown of your own thoughts.
>The tears are still easily visible in her eyes but they have calmed some.
>The kissing had made her hair color brighter, but still remaining in bangs.
>Do you love her? In more than just complimenting her cup cakes?
>Does she still love you?
>After dazing out, the two of you are knocked back into reality, realizing that you both were staring into each other's eyes for a dead minute, lost in thought.
>You start to apologize and rub the back of your head.
>"No, it's fine."
>Her upset voice has become calmly happy with the occasional sniffle interrupting some of her words.
>She nuzzles her head under your chin and then sits back down in bad how she was earlier.
>"Thank you for that Anon. Kissing for sympathy is sweet of you."
"Well, I don't know if was entirely out of sympathy Pinkie..."
>Her eyes grow brighter and her cheeks grow red, sniffling once more.
>"R-really?"
"Well, I mean..."
>She sits up and inches to you.
"... I don't know... I need some time to think about it. What happened was just all of a sudden and I just... I'm confused."
>She was right about being socially awkward. You weren't familiar with how to flirt or to talk in certain situations. Nonetheless, she giggled.
>"I get it Anon. Take your time."
>She smiled innocently, looking up at you.
>You go to give her another hug and the two of your eyes meet once again as you started to pull away.
>The two of you kiss passionately for maybe half a minute. A whole minute? Who was counting?
>Once the two of you pulled away together, you both smiled.
>You start to walk out as Pinkie Pie picks up her ball, a pleasant smirk on her face.
"See you later Pinkie."
>"Okie Dokie Loki."
>She was more chipper than before. Her hair may have still been down but the pink color of her face soothed into a bright red and the smile she gave was the brightest she probably had all week.
>You smile and walk downstairs.
>When you get to the bottom of the stair case, the previous tension that was present in the room had lifted. It almost seemed like the lights were a little brighter too.
>You wave to Mr. And Mrs. Cake who may have eaves dropped on the two of you because they seem much friendlier than before.
>"Would you like something before you go Anon?"
"Sorry, I left my money at home."
>"Free of charge Anon. Get yourself a drink and some pastries.
>Free food? Hell yeah. This is the best day all week.
"Oh, thanks!"
>You look at the menu hanging over Mrs. Cake's head.
"Uh, how about a bagel and a Mocha frap made on the dark side?"
>She smiles and gets straight to it.
>When the meal is done you look in the bag to see she had snuck some doughnut holes and a sprinkled doughnut for you.
>You shrug and show joy on your face.
"Thanks again!"
>They wave, saying goodbye to you.
>Mr. and Mrs. Cake are pretty cool.
>You try to not think about Pinkie just yet. Wait until you get home so you can really focus.
>Looking around at the trees and birds flying nearby, you whistle a tune to yourself to keep you occupied.
>"There you are!"
>The hell?
>You turn left to see Rainbow Dash settling on the ground near you.
>"We need to talk."
>She speaks passive aggressively.
>You haven't spoken much to Rainbow Dash. She was cool and a good friend, but you had trouble making friends as it was.
"About what exactly?"
>"Tell me why you hurt Pinkie Pie!"
>You'd bet half of your life savings that Rainbow is the one to tell Fluttershy to peep it.
"What do you mean?"
>"You know what I mean!"
>You know what she is mad about, but why is she mad about it?
"Refresh my brain then."
>"Celestia, I thought you were smart. You heart broke Pinkie. You couldn't have even let her down easy?!"
"Let her down easy?! The hell are you talking about? I don't think I could have been more gentle!"
>"Asshole, you think what you did was letting her down easy?!"
"Do you even know how I did it, or does your mouth need a diaper? Cause clearly you are talking out of your ass."
>"She wouldn't have cried if you did it easily!"
"Then go talk to her right now and prove me wrong!"
>You can't really blame Rainbow Dash. She is just being loyal and defending her best friend.
>She swipes her tail and then walks past you.
>"Fine! And when I prove you wrong I'll-"
>You interrupt her thought.
"You'll do what?"
>She doesn't respond, just continues to walk forward.
>As you turn and give the back of her a grudged look, you realize there are ponies, looking at you with appearances of confusion.
"Go on everyone! Back to whatever the hell you were doing! Nothing to see here."
>You start to vent, understanding Rainbow had the best of intentions for her friend.
>The return of the soft sound caused by the birds chirping and the trees shaking due to the wind helps too.
>You sigh out, the adrenaline leaving your body and your throat calming from the yelling.
>That park bench looks nice. It'd be nice to relax there.
>You take the opportunity of the free bench, laying down on it and resting your head on the metal arm rest of one side.
>You're a little big but when aren't you in this world?
>As you take a breath, you close your eyes but only for a moment.
>Upon opening them you find that the bright cyan blue sky has suddenly shifted to a dark, deep purple.
>You quickly check your pockets for your belongings.
>Keys? Check.
>Wallet? Check.
>Piece of paper?
"Check?"
>You didn't have that in there.
>As you reach for it, you think to yourself:
>You really should stop being so panicked nowadays. No one would think about stealing from you or anyone really.
>It's not like you're in Detroit or something, you're in a small town filled with colorful ponies.
>You'd like to let your guard down but you always keep it up just in case.
>Better safe than sorry though, huh?
>The note is now in front of your face.
>The moonlight shines it just enough for you to be able to read most of it.
>"Fr*m Rai***w Das*
>From Rainbow Dash.
>"Hey, so I talked to Pinkie and I guess I was a little bit of an ass..."
>The understatement of the century.
>"... I hope you get where I was coming from."
>You do.
>That is all that was on the note.
>Seems like she could have just found you in person if that is all she had to say.
>You knew Rainbow well enough though to determine that she wasn't one for sentiment apologizes.
>You put the note back in your pocket, like it mattered for some reason.
>Sitting up on the bench, you give yourself a moment for the chilly night air to reach your arms and open your eyes.
>You probably weren't going to be falling asleep anytime soon again.
>Was it early enough to be awake or late enough to be awake?
>What time was is it anyways?
>You search around for a clock but to no avail, you can't find one.
>The one day you left your watch at home.
>Getting up, you continue your walk home from earlier.
>Pinkie Pie comes to mind once again.
>You recall how her lips felt pressed against yours and the adorable way her straight hair messed up in the spot she nuzzled your neck at.
>You rub your neck with your hand once the thought is brought up.
>The way you felt was confused. Unsure. Not confident.
>Lacking in courage wasn't really out of the ordinary though but unsure seemed oddly peculiar.
>It's such an odd scenario to be confused in. Do you love her back or not?
>Seems like simple enough of a question but you didn't know the answer.
>Though, Rarity might.
>You try to let the thought of Pinkie rest until you get home but it keeps coming up, creeping on you like a monster under your bed.
>Only, rather than a monster, it's an innocent pink pony that you may or may not love.

>After an hours time of taking the long route home, you find yourself shoving your key into the door lock.
>*Shhwick!* The door unlocks louder than ever before. At least by contrast of the silent night.
>You walk inside and look around, still mildly curious of the time, but finding yourself intrigued to get something to eat.
>You walk to the kitchen, checking the time on your microwave as you open your fridge.
>It reads "2:30 AM".
>You sigh as you shake your head at the coffee maker.
>It is just a little too early to drink coffee. You have time to go back to bed.
>You look in the fridge to find "nothing".
>There is a lot but nothing you want.
"Fine..."
>You roll your eyes, accepting a bowl of Cheerios and milk.
>You eat it slowly and after you finish, check the clock again.
>"3:15 Am"
>Either it was a bit bowl of cereal or I took my time. Who takes 45 minutes to eat cereal?
>Nonetheless, you were too awake to fall back to bed, even at this early/late of an hour.
>After cleaning your bowl, you slowly walked into the living room, noticeably feeling the difference in the temperature.
>You sat on the couch and was about to reach for a book but thoughts of "her" rang once more.
>You shook your head, applying the palm of your right hand to your forehead and rubbing.
>There is no stress but the rub is relaxing nonetheless.
>Seven months? You can hardly remember what drink you got when leaving her house today but she is able to recall her affections daily for seven months?
>You do the math.
>About 210.
"Damn..."
>You try nonetheless and fail to recall what happened afterwards.
>This brings you back to reality and you look around the determine your surroundings.
>Zoning out wasn't a problem as you are just down the street from Rarity's home.
>You take slower steps walking down there, trying once more to recall some moments with Pinkie and Rarity.
>A few months before your previous flashback, you remember Pinkie asking for you to bring her to the Canterlot Winter Formal.
>You can feel your cheeks lift up in a smile.
>One would think you'd be smart enough to determine she didn't want to go "as friends".
>The thought will have to wait until later.
>You step up to Rarity's door and knock on it softly.
>"Uno momento!"
>You lean against the side of the door and tap your foot once more.
>The door opens widely and Rarity's face shows excitement.
>"Oh Anon! Sweetie! It's good to see you. Please, come in!"
>Where did her parents grow up for her to get a sophisticated dialect living in a southern town.
>She is practically bouncing in anticipation.
>"I have been working on a new set of designer clothes titled 'Holiday'! It's so short and elegant!"
>You didn't come over to talk about designer clothing, but she was amazing with how she created her dresses and outfits.
>Eagerly, you let her take you through outfit after outfit of clothing.
>You smile.
>"Oh yes, I should make one of these for you! You'd look stunning in them!"
"Rarity, I don't wear dresses..."
>"No no no!"
>She shakes her head repeatedly.
>"I meant that we could give you a suit of these colors and design aspects. I have your measurements already, I'll be sure to make it stunning!"
>You start to refuse her request as she works had as it is.
>"No no no, this is going to happen Anon."
>You roll your eyes and thank her for.
"I'm sure you will make it fantastic."
>"Well of course I will dear. Now, what is it that brings you over here because I'm sure you didn't know about what I was making."
>She raises an eyebrow and smirks.
"I've got a problem... It's about-"
>"Pinkie Pie. Do tell. I've heard her side but it was a bit difficult to comprehend with the tears flowing out of her eyes and the constant hiccups."
>You frown in self hatred.
>After a short pause, you begin telling your experiences to her. She is seemingly peaceful about the whole thing.
>"Now I'm just confronted with feelings and that kind of shit."
>She lets out a giggle.
>"Have you ever thought maybe you shouldn't suppress your feelings? She could be hoof made for you."
>You cheeks grow a lightest shade of red.
"Why is it then that this only came up after she gave me her thoughts?"
>Rarity ponders for a moment.
>She can't accumulate an answer.
>"Well, um..."
"'Hoof-made' is a little bit excessive of a word to use, don't you think?"
>She can't answer you once more.
>"Um... I don't know in honesty."
>You squint your eyes and tilt your head, assuming she'd have all the answers.
>"I can't tell you everything but I would say you should try it."
"Try what?"
>You know what she is talking about. Is there anything else you could possibly be talking about?
>"Oh honey, come on."
>She giggles.
"Alright alright, I know what you mean."
>You roll your eyes. You wished that she would provide you evidence in the other direction.
>Back to being just friends with the Pink Pony.
>Maybe it's too late to go back to being friends though.
>You'd ask Rarity this, but she's unfortunately biased. You can't blame her though, she's been friends with you for maybe a year but with Pinkie for the longest of time.
>"You alright dear?"
>She waves her hoof in front of you.
>You shake your head. Maybe you were a little lost in thought.
"Y-yeah?"
>"I was hoping we could continue to talk while you pick up a design you'd like to have."
>You look at her confused until she points out the dresses from earlier.
>Nodding and getting up from your seat, you walk over and start to look at some of the dresses that are open for you to pick from.
>That's good, a change in topic. Maybe you should just make a decision about Pinkie.

>Some time passes and Rarity continues her talk about dresses once more and you pick out a design that you think would look good.
>Well, maybe more of one she think would look good on you.
>You haven't ever been amazing at knowing what colors compliment with others, and any fashion at all is just difficult to work with.
>She waves at you as you walk out of the door and head over to.... Where exactly?
>You check your watch which you actually brought with you today.
>Fortunately (more unfortunate because your mind has to continue to scramble with this thought in your head) there is still a lot of day light left.
>It has been a while since you have last talked to Twilight.
>To hell with it. What do you have to lose?
>You begin heading over to her castle (holy crap, Season 4 happened).
>What would you say to her? What advice could she give you?
>She might be able to fix the solution.
>You notice a pattern.
>Applejack: Told the truth but didn't know, Rarity: Knew the answer but didn't know why.
>Is there always going to be some contrast of the answer?
>Hopefully not.
>You take each step up into the castle with little difference than a few months ago.
>The whole castle thing never caught onto you really. Everyone acted drastically and amazed but in honesty, it's the same person housed by something that better suits her.
>*Knock knock knock*
>Though, that same person you never made yourself completely familiar with.
>Fluttershy, Pinkie, and Rarity were close to you. Applejack and Rainbow Dash were friends as well but for some reason, you felt a disconnect with them.
>Twilight though, was interesting.
>She opened the door curiously and excitedly.
>She never really opened herself to you in any fashion. You understand the anxiety and you share the same aspects but for some reason not even that could bond you.
>A common enemy.
>"Oh, uh, hi Anon."
"Hey Twilight."
>The two of you stand there for a moment without looking at each other.
>She was sweet and kind of cute. Why you two never talked much is still beyond you.
>"What brings you over here?"
>It sounded a little defensive but it was meant in the best of ways.
"Well, I wanted to ask about Pinkie Pie."
>"Yeeeessss?"
"Um, well I presume you already know about what happened, right?"
>She shakes her head.
>You'd like to ask to come inside but without being rude.
"It's a little long so uh-"
>"Could it wait a bit? I am in the middle of an experiment."
"Yeah yeah, sure."
>Before you can finish what you were saying, she closes the door quickly.
>You guys weren't really friends much at all but still, she seemed a bit excessive.
>Did no one tell her Pinkie and I are "cool"?
>Who am I kidding? We are far from cool.
>You could feel the tension like a moist towel that surrounded you.
>It wouldn't dry you off, just make the situation worse, but nonetheless you still tried to get it off of you.
>Where to now?
>Fluttershy's house I suppose.
>The last time you talked to her was a week ago or so. She was always caring and kind and it was a nice uplift to your day.
>Yeah, let's go to Fluttershy's.
>You didn't realize you were standing numb and dull right outside Twilight's door like a moron until you began moving to the yellow mare's house.
>Every step gets harder. Not because your tired, but it makes you sick for whatever reason.
>The sensation of humidity returned to you.
>You stop while on your way at a Starbucks Kiosk to grab a drink. Hopefully it will relax you.
>Looking at the menu, you go for the most delicious and least caffeinated thing you can get.
>The last thing you need right now is extra energy.
>"Is there something I can get for you, s-sir?"
>The sweet mare paused at sir. She must not have seen you much and wasn't sure to call you.
>Well, what did you want?
>Pinkie always recommended the Strawberry Bean Frap. It was a bit too light of a drink for you usually but it tasted good.
>It'll be perfect.
>You order your drink and think.
>Waiting for it on a nearby bench, you let a Pink Pony consume your mind.
>You don't enjoy this feeling you have. It's not wonderful Butterflies on a beautiful Saturday morning with the love of your life
>It's far from sadness and desire to be with the one you can't be with.
>It's a middle ground that's far more evil and discerning than love, or sadness, or joy, or anger.
>Guilt maybe?
>Do you fee-
>"Number 44, your drink is ready!"
>Damn, nothing is giving you the better side of a thought recently.
>You walk up and grab your drink, and a small bag with something you didn't order.
"Um, hey, sorry I didn't order this uh..."
>You look inside to find a lemon bread cake. Sweet vanilla cream lacing the top side of the fluffy, warm bread.
"Lemon bread...."
>"No worries sir. Free of charge."
>The girl over the counter winks at you, bringing a smile to your face.
>She waves goodbye as you walk away with only the wrist of her hoof moving.
>Maybe you could have spent a second longer talking to her. She was a cutie for sure.
>Unfortunately your mind is too concerned with other matters to worry about her.
>Where were you? Going to Fluttershy's right?
>Yeah.
>The more you walk the heavier your feet get. It took you a while to notice but your feet feel weighed down towards the ground for some reason.
>You don't want to go to Fluttershy's today. You don't want to talk to anyone today. This whole situation is a little too much and it's a bit too sudden.
>There's no option to it though, you have to deal with it. But you want things to be how they were. You want to be friends with Pinkie again even though your mind is conflicted over having some type of affection that is stronger than your friendship ever was.
>The more unfortunate realization you have come to is that there is no real middle ground to this. Only two extremes that could go either terribly or wonderfully.
>Well, there is some middle ground...
>Sadly enough, in order to get to that middle ground, you're going to need to thread the needle.
>And the thread is a boulder.
>You sip out of the drink, nodding in approval.
>Pinkie is pretty smart with the drinks she gets.
>I suppose she doesn't need too much more caffeine as it is.
>You look inside of the bag and take a bite of the Lemon bread.
>It's better than you thought it would be.
>Now which do you like more? The yellow lemon bread or the pink coffee?
>You ponder this question as you step up onto Fluttershy's front door, knocking on it very softly with the hand holding your Frap.
>After a moment's time, Fluttershy opens the door quietly?
>"Hello?"
>Upon seeing you, she closes the door softly and steps outside and hugs you, apologizing.
>"Oh Anon! I'm so happy to see you! I didn't want to ignore you but Rainbow told me I shouldn't talk to you because of what happened with Pinkie and what not. I didn't have the heart to just walk past you."
>You hug her in return, smiling.
"You seem hyper today."
>"Oh, I'm just taking care of my animals and I'm happy to see you."
>She lets go of the hug and shies happily under her bangs.
"I'm happy to see you too Fluttershy."
>"So what brings you over here Anon?"
>She sits down and leans against her house.
"I actually wanted to talk about Pinkie. I'm a bit confused and thought you could help me out."
>Her face drops a little in excitement but she is still filled with it.
>"I'd love too Anon."
>Great. Fluttershy can do the most to help you out in this situation.
>Well, Pinkie probably would be a better option but she's not really available in this specific situation.
"Thanks. So, basically, I'm just confused about how I actually feel about Pinkie."
>She looks away, the excitement once again dropping.
>"What did you mean?"
"Well, part of me feels like I love her. She is-
>You were careful to say "one of" to not upset Fluttershy.
"-one of my best friends..."
>"Yes?"
"And I just don't know if I actually do. I feel like part of me is constricted by guilt. Like I have to love her or else I'm not a good friend."
>She smiles and puts a hoof to her chin to ponder for a moment while you sip from your pink drink and finish the lemon bread.
>Damn, it was probably the best thing you have had to eat in a while.
>The drink is still really good though.
>"Well, there is some connection there, as much as it breaks my heart to say it."
>You tilt your head slightly.
"Why does it break your heart to say that?"
>Her cheeks become a beaming red and her eyes widen.
>"Um uh we-well."
>She chuckles nervously.
>"I don't want such a good friendship to be ruined by this kind of situation."
>Presenting tension, she smiles uneasily.
>You ignore what has her worked up.
"Alright then."
>There's a few seconds of silence before you interrupt it.
"So what would you say I should do?"
>"Well, you should wait until you know for sure how you feel and then you should uh... Tell her afterwards?"
>You nod, taking in her words of wisdom.
"I haven't thought that far ahead yet I suppose. I've been too concerned about what would happened that I didn't even think about what to do. Do you have any recommendations of what I should do then?"
>"Um... Maybe don't talk to her for a few days and see how you miss her. Would you miss a friend or who you love?"
>You nod once more, accepting her words.
"You're pretty freaking smart Fluttershy."
>She blushes lightly and smiles, rubbing her left arm.
>"Oh, thank you... I just have gone through this before. I learned from experience."
"Who was it with?"
>She repeats the process of becoming wide eyed and her face flushing. It's a cute in all honesty.
>"Um, I'll tell you some other day if that's okay."
>It is.
>"Also, would you mind, if it isn't too much of a bother, if you could um, help me move some of the food out back for the rabbits? It's just a little heavy is all..."
>You nod and she smiles in response.
>"Thank you."
>You get up and for some reason feel pulsed to pick Fluttershy up.
>So you do. She's a friend, what does it matter?
>You gently put her on your back and without contest, she wraps her arms around your chest.
>Maybe you just needed a hug. Some comfort. A person to tell you to not worry.
>For whatever reason, it just came to you.
>You start going to the back and Fluttershy plays with your hair.
>She blows on it and moves it with her right forehoof, giggling as she does so.
>Once at the back, you pick it up with ease.
>In fact, Fluttershy probably could have picked it up if she tried.
"Where to?"
>She sighs happily before speaking.
>"Put it inside in the kitchen please, if you don't mind. You'll have to a teency weency bit quiet because the animals are taking their nap."
>You nod and begin to walk as Fluttershy hugs you tighter.
>Once inside, your steps are silent and her breathing is only audible because her head is leaning right next to your ear.
>You place it down in the kitchen as quietly as possible and begin to walk out of the back door since it is closer.
>Fluttershy still lingers onto your back
>It's sweet. You love it.
>Your head snuggles with her head as she presses against it.
>You close the back door but she doesn't let go of you just yet.
>To be completely honest, you don't want her to let go really.
"Where too, sweetie?"
>The last bit rolled off your tongue on accident, but she didn't seem the least bit worried about it.
>She speaks again after nuzzling with your head.
>"To the front please. Onward!"
>She is rather playful. But she has always been more comfortable around you than most other ponies.
>Sometimes, even around the rest of her best friends.
>You smile.
>Once at the front of her cottage, you place her down gently, the disappointment being noticeable on her face.
>You pick up the bag you had from earlier with the lemon bread you finished.
>Once inside of your pocket to throw away later, you kneel down to give Fluttershy a hug goodbye.
>The excitement returns again and she accepts your invitation.
"Thanks Fluttershy. Maybe we can hang out later this week."
>"I'd like that."
>You can feel her smile through your shirt as you hug her.
>The hug last a little longer than normal but you failed to be bothered by it.
>Once letting go of the hug, she looks at you closely to your face.
>She almost leans into you but pulls herself back.
>The two of you smile weakly as you stand up.
>Grabbing your coffee that has melted at this point, you wave goodbye to Fluttershy and begin walking away.
>"Bye Anon!"
>Well, now you're conflicted. Rarity suggest going up to Pinkie and confessing your 'undying love for her'-
>You roll your eyes.
>-but Fluttershy suggest that you go home to think about this situation.
>Rush in, or wait.
>Your legs have carried you back into the center part of town and away from Fluttershy's cottage.
>You find yourself confused, lost almost.
>So you keep walking until you find what you are supposed to find.
>You walk past city hall, the bakery, Twilight's castle, house after house.
>You must have covered a few miles in walking but it's calming to do.
>Plus, it was something to do.
>It's very unfortunate but it seems you may have found what you weren't looking for.
>A sweet pink pony bumps into your legs.
>Her hair was down and the excitement on her face was non existent for your presence.
>She looked up and found you staring down at her.
>"Oh, hey there Anon."
"Hey Pinkie."
>The two of you look away awkwardly from one another.
>Two weeks ago she couldn't resist hugging you in pure joy from seeing you.
>Today, she droops her head low, ashamed.
"What are you up to?"
>What is her emotion? She seems interested in talking to you, but at the same time reluctant.
>Almost an anxiety and depression.
>"I was just going to grab some food from the store. I've been eating to much from the bakery."
>The two of you chuckle lightly.
>You could practically pour the tension in the air into a glass and drink it. You wouldn't need to though, it's already inside of you and everywhere you look.
"Would you like me to help you out with that?"
>Come on moron, of course she wouldn't. No matter how inexperienced you are you still knew some basics.
>"Uh, no, I think I will be fine. Thanks though."
>She gives a smile but is clearly struggling to hold it as she fights back tears.
>You feel pushed to say something.
>Don't, it'll be stupid. If it's not a goodbye then you'll regret it.
"Look, Pinkie..."
>Moron...
"... I am sorry for not really talking to you much in the past few days. You still understand that I need to think this over, right?"
>You should have kept her mouth shut.
>She can't hold the smile up any longer and it drops to a sluggish frown. All she needs to do now is hold back her tears.
>Without making a sound, she nods and looks away from you.
>There isn't a sound she could make right now that wouldn't end up with her in tears.
>A few moments of silence occur and the two of you stand there looking idiotic.
>This peace is broken by your kneeling down and hugging her.
>She doesn't return the favor for a moment, resisting an urge. She didn't want to hug you.
>Pinkie had to hug you back though. She missed everything about you.
>She missed your hugs, your listening ear, your caring heart to all of her worries.
>Once pulling you in closely, she sniffles and nuzzles your neck with the back of her head.
>She can't look to you for some reason.
>You feel a kiss on your shoulder before she pulls back.
>Weakly, she speaks to you.
>"S-see you later An-Anon...."
>She walks off.
>There are tears on your shirt.
>You try not to stare as once again, obstructions interrupt your sight of her.
>It's hard to resist, so you walk slowly and glance occasionally until she becomes invisible from your eye sight.
>Damn buildings, ruining a reunion I wanted to last.
>Once she is no longer visible, you stop moving, staring off into the direction that she had gone to.
>She accelerated faster the further she was away from you.
>By the time she wasn't seen she must had been at a jogging speed.
>The memory repeats at least a dozen times in your head before you realize that you are standing in the middle of town.
>You're tired of this day. Let it wash away like rain drops that fall into a river. There is more than they will ever realize.
>Shaking your head, you encourage yourself to be more optimistic about the situation.
>A smile plastered onto your face encourages a more welcoming attitude, but a tumor attacks and eats away your mind more than you even know.
>Once more, you walk to see what adventures the day brings you.
>There is still plenty of daylight, though you wish the night would overcome already.
>Light taps follow your movement after each lonesome tap onto the soft ground Ponyville host.
>For a while you knew what to do.
>Hang out with Pinkie? Hang out with any of their other friends? Read? Clean up?
>For the most part, your friends helped you to know what you need to do.
>Since a week, maybe 10 days ago (who knows, you lost track of time), you haven't a clue of what to do.
>There's no energy anymo-
>No no no, happy thoughts. I'll be joyful!
>What makes me happy?
>Besides Pinkie Pie...
>What would keep you entertained and keep your mind free of worry, if only for a small bit of time?
>You always loved going to the arcade here. They had bowling, video games, pizza, it was one of the best indoor places you had been to.
>Everything at that place is perfect.
>Let's game to get my mind off this horrid subject.
>You begin heading over there.
>'What was it called again? Mane Event I think.'
>Your excitement grows again. How childish are you if all of your "grown up" worries can be erased by the thought of playing in an arcade?
>Who cares? Laser Tag spelled with a "Z" is awesome no matter your age. Plus who honestly cares?
>You turn a few corners, bringing memories back of coming here a few months ago.
>Somehow, you, Pinkie, and Rainbow convinced the rest to play Lazer Tag.
>Your mind drifts off into memories that, while a few months back, feel like yesterday.
>Pinkie is the first to make the suggestion.
>"Hey everyone! They just opened up this new place with all this cool stuff inside like Laser Tag and bowling and pizza and it's just so cool!"
>Twilight wasn't for the idea really. Always keeping postured along side Rarity.
>"I don't know about that. Isn't all that a little under our age?"
>"Yes, I would have to agree with Twilight. It doesn't feel like something we would be doing darling."
>Rainbow Dash joined Pinkie's side.
>"Oh come on! What wouldn't be cool about shooting lasers at each other? I'm all for it."
>Rarity responds with "Sweetie, I just don't think we should be doing that kind of thing."
>It's you who finally makes a good argument.
"Don't you want to just relax? You can't be so uptight all the time. Try new things."
>Applejack didn't pick a side, but carelessly joined yours.
>"Ah'm for that."
>Twilight and Rarity looked at each other, unable to counter you and the three mares standing next to you.
>With a shrug, they reluctantly agreed to go, producing cheers from the rest of the crowd.
>While walking up to the arcade, your mind halts the flashback for a short period of time in order to talk to the cashier.
"Hey, uh, unlimited ticket for one please?"
>Hell yeah, you're going to bowl like there is no tomorrow.
>"O-one? Okay. Sure sir!"
>The way she said 'one' made your cheeks flush red with shame for a short amount of time.
>After handing her 10 dollars for an adult ticket, your proceed to walk into the arcade.
>Your mind draws you to lane eleven out of twenty. The lane left of you has some food and items on it, occupied by a group that presumably went to grab some food or use the bathroom.
>To your right were three empty lanes, two occupied straight in a row, and then two more empty with a final row occupied at the end.
>You didn't look into your left enough to notice what lanes were full and what weren't.
>You slide a card you were given into a compact machine and set up a game...
>... for one....
>Name?: ANON
>Once typing it in, the pins set up on the other side and you pick up a bowling ball, choosing between some different sizes before picking an 8.5.
>You slide the three holes into your fingers perfectly and focus your mind on the lane in front of you.
>Your arm leans back for an under throw and you slide it smoothly but quickly onto the lane, knocking down 7 pins, 7 - 4 - and 2 still standing.
>The ball returns through the back and onto the machine once more, rolling out to you.
>Maybe all the walking from earlier exhausted you some.
>Either that or Pinkie crying on y-
"Mmm...."
>You shake your head and groan in annoyance of yourself.
>Focus on bowling. And getting food in your system.
>You begin turning around to order pizza through the machine but 90 degrees to the left you find yourself stopping as you and two familiar mares make eye contact.
>It probably isn't the most unusual thing to spot Applejack and Rainbow coming here. It is a pretty convenient place for meet ups.
>"Howdy, partner!"
>"Uh, h-hey Anon..."
>While Applejack may have been as ecstatic as ever to see you, the cyan pony was less than thrilled.
>Her embarrassment was made even clearer by the blood that swam to her face.
>"Well what're ya doin' here Anon?"
"I came to free my mind of stress and just relax while I play some games.
>As you said 'relax' you formed a glare that shifted to Rainbow Dash.
>The sweat running along her hairline is almost visible.
>Applejack looks confused as she too faces towards Rainbow.
>In response to the two sets of eyes facing her, she chuckles nervously.
>"Hey Anon, could we talk like, over there?"
>She pointed two lanes down from hers and before you could respond she was pushing you over there with her front hooves on your stomach.
>It wasn't a threatening push, just an encouragement to move. You followed the direction of her force.
"What did you want to talk about?"
>Her eyes narrow down in annoyance to your sassy remark. You're fully aware of what she wants to talk about, not that it really bothers you must anymore.
>The letter she gave you was all you really needed.
>"Look, Anon, I gotta be honest, it wasn't really cool of me to just let you have it. You didn't deserve it and I let loyalty to one friend interrupt the friendship of another. And also, I uh-"
>You cut her off as you didn't need to hear more and she was struggling with the apology as it was.
"It's fine Rainbow. Don't fret about it."
>"I also told Fluttershy to ignore you..."
>Her face switches from a shameful lowering of her head to a guilty smile.
"Don't worry about it."
>"But I-"
"Don't worry about it."
>After you put down her protest, she gives on.
>"Okay Anon."
>You lift your hand into a fist for a knuckle bump but rather than immediately giving it to you, she looks around for a moment.
>Then she hugs you real quickly, almost to fast to register.
>"Don't tell anyone about that."
>You smile and form a fist once more for her, the invitation being accepted this time.
>The two of you walk back, friendly smiles plastered onto your face.
>Well, you earned back Rainbow's friendship. That's good.
>While you may not have been the closest of friends with Rainbow, you always appreciated her playful manner. It contrasted with Pinkie's in that it was competitive and more mature almost.
>Once back at your lanes, Applejack interrupts anything you or Rainbow had planned on saying.
>"So uh, ahr we all friends again? Is there any tension left?"
>You and Rainbow shake heads at the same time to answer 'no.'
>"Well uh, ya could play in our lane Anon. We aren't really far into this game."
"I wouldn't mind. Are you sure you want to?"
>Rainbow answers for her.
>"Sure! That way we can see who is truly the best bowler out of us two."
>'Oh yeah, that's right...'
>Last time you and the whole group was here you went head on with Rainbow in bowling. Why you agreed to her competition you'll never know. You each won one game but then your time for laser tag came and you couldn't determine the winner of the bet that was placed.
>What was the bet again?
"You're on Dash."
>The two of you playfully but competitively stare each other down closely until Applejack pushes you two away from each other.
>"If ah'm correct, the precautions of the bet was if Rainbow won, Anon had to tear his favorite shirt in half-"
>Handmade in Italy, pure silk but harden to mimic the shape necessary for the collar and wrist, in your favorite color too. Works with just about any out outfit you have.
>'So savage.'
>"-and if Rainbow here won, she had to shave her mane and tail completely off."
>'Oh damn, she's not as evil by comparison.'
>Rainbow and you both nod, you shaking her hoof in the palm of you hand.
>Dash volunteers to go first and grabs a bowling ball as Applejack sets the game up.
>What was even wrong with today? You don't remember. Hopefully you don't remember. That shirt cost $250.

>Some time passes and the game gets nearer towards the end.
>All you need is 7 pins on this final go to win.
>There's no way you're going to lose this. You've been nailing it this whole game.
>Shit! Guttered.
>Rainbow starts cracking up behind you and Applejack does the same.
>Unintentionally, Rainbow says a little line she probably shouldn't have.
>"Come on Anon, do it for Pinkie."
>It was a little sarcastic, but nonetheless it filled you with energy rather than distracted you.
>A large amount of focus and fuel kicks in and you move the ball back to slide it in.
>*Vrah vrah vrah vrah, Baddadun*
>And there it goes, did you win?
>1, 2, 3
>4, 5 - Oh why be cocky? Straight up strike like a bad ass.
>You gain this smart ass grin on your face and after watching all the pins fall over you slowly turn to Rainbow.
"Hm, how about that?"
>You can't help but be an ass at the moment, Rainbow with her hair shaved off is going to be great.
>Her jaw is dropped and Applejack stands beside her, giggling, and probably imaging a mane-less cyan pony.
>Normally, you would have gone over to hug Pinkie in joy of your awesome victory. Hell, she may have even thrown you a party.
>You try to put it to the back of your mind for now.
>Unfortunately, you recall what has you so upset earlier.
>Rainbow petting her mane softly helps you out though.
>"But I never lose..."
>She would have seemed as if she was about to cry if it wasn't for her reputation of toughness that followed her.
>The last thing you want is to lose a friend, but you trust that Rainbow will remain loyal to both the deal and your friendship.
>Though, she may need a few weeks alone in her house.
>You smirk and kneel down, rubbing Rainbow's mane.
"Well played Rainbow."
>She rolled her eyes but subtly pressed against your hand.
>Maybe you could call off the bet depending on how well the rest of the day goes.
>Your eyes focus onto a small opening in the back that reads off 'Lazer Tag' above it.
>The Z was stupid, but laser tag is fun as hell.
>You smile as you get an idea.
>Your goal is to take Pinkie off your mind and let the problem solve itself.
"I'll make you another deal Rainbow."
>Her hoof stops rubbing through the multi-colored streaks and her eyes gently look up to you.
"How about a round of Laser Tag?"
>Applejack moves forward in curiosity.
>"Oh?"
"If Rainbow wins, she can keep her lovely mane."
>Her face turns soft shade of red.
>"I would use the word 'cool' but go on..."
"And if I win then-"
>You hadn't planned that far ahead. You were making all of this shit up as you went along.
>What is something she would hate?
>You didn't even realize you paused, the two mares looking at you with nervous anticipation.
>"Yes?" Rainbow spoke up.
"-And if I win, then you need to dye your body rainbow colored and your hair cyan for two weeks, after which you cut off your mane."
>This can take your mind off the Pink pony. This will work to great lengths.
>The two ponies gasp, Rainbow facing you with as much as confidence as she can while gulping.
>Meanwhile, Applejack is having a difficult time holding herself together.
"Well?"
>Reluctantly, she nods. After which she returns to a confident posture.
>Your head tilts towards the arena entrance as you begin walking over there.
>Rainbow was on your team last time you went as a group, and even she mentioned that she was impressed with how well you did.
>You can practically feel her steps stomping bravely and in a determined fashion.
>Once in line, you turn for a moment to talk to them but as you do a familiar and unfortunate appearance comes into play.
>You turn around awkwardly to avoid eye contact, but being the only human in Equestria there's not a lot of ways to 'blend in with the crowd'.
>Why would Twilight and Rarity bring Pinkie here on this day in specific? Of all days, this one.
>"Hi there Anon, sweetie!"
>Rarity, stop talking, please.
>"Anon, dearie, behind you!"
>In your mind, you face palm.
>Turning around, you find Rarity cutting in front of Applejack and Dash.
>'Rarity, stop, stop everything, turn around, and don't say another word.'
>"Anon sweetie, why aren't you be kind to your friend, Rarity?"
>You look down at her uneasily, as if she was about to hit you in the groin.
>In all honesty, you would prefer that over this embarrassment.
"Uh, h-hey Rarity. What ARE you doing?"
>"What's the matter Anon?"
>You hand and your face are one entity at this point.
>You get down on a knee, hoping she'll quiet down.
"Do you not recall the thing, where like, Pinkie and I aren't really talking at the moment, because of reasons that I told you about?!"
>Your whispers were loud but fortunately quiet enough to only be spread over to Applejack and Rainbow Dash, who seemingly had forgotten about the situation as well.
>Of Rainbow, AJ, and Rarity, the latter of the three was the most upset.
>"Oh Anon, please forgive me, I didn't know, I just, had been so busy with my dresses, and your suit thing, and I just didn't... Remember..."
>Dammit, who would be so brave to deny the acceptance of her apology with a face like that?
>You whisper once more, the Cyan and Orange ponies listening attentively from behind Rarity.
"It's fine, I guess. What are you guys doing here?"
>"We wanted to cheer Pinkie up because she was upset, though she wouldn't tell us why."
>Her nervous chuckles show guilt despite your forgiveness.
>"Hey Anon."
>And as if it couldn't get any worse.
"Hi Pinkie..."
>An awkward pause came for ten seconds and being the moron that you are, you try to fix the situation.
>The arena door opens and all six of you begin walking in.
"How has your day be-"
>"How about we just skip the calamities?"
>Applejack decides to speak up.
>"So, what teams ahre we going tah be-"
>AJ is cut off by Pinkie's unusually firm voice.
>"Anon is the leader, Twilight and AJ are with her, I am a leader, Rainbow and Rarity are with me."
>Rainbow you understand, but Rarity and Pinkie is probably the furthest apart connection in their group.
>She... Took the two that were closest to you in this group.
>Damn, Pinkie is smarter than she normally lets on.
"Sounds good to me."
>At your comment, Pinkie glares at you.
>Twilight seems quizzical to be on a team with you since you two never really talked much.
>Applejack seemed fine with it though.
>After you catch Pinkie's glare, the four other mares looks at each other worried, and then around the room awkwardly.
>Applejack: "Well, good luck gals."
>Rainbow: "Ye-yeah. You too."
>Pinkie looks confuzzled at Rainbow, likely because she was encouraging to the other team. She always was sassy and cocky before most competitions.
>Rarity: "See you on the field."
>Twilight softly and nervously giggles before speaking: "Let's have a fair, clean, and good game."
>It is just a game of Laser Tag, but the tension in the room makes it seem like so more.
>Every pony pulled a vest off a shelf from opposite sides of the room.
>Fortunately, a large vest works for you just fine.
>All but you and Pinkie walk into the arena.
>You look back sighing and see Pinkie's unimpressed glare eyeing you once again.
>Pinkie never gave off that she could be threatening and... Almost scary.
>The moment lingers on more than you want it to, so you walk into the field, following AJ and Twilight.
>Twilight: "I'm a little worried about Pinkie, do you think she'll be okay?"
>Applejack shrugs and hits a button which indicates the three of you are ready.
>A large beep goes off.
>You sigh, unable to forgive yourself for a crime you hadn't really committed.
>Twilight looks up to you: "Hey, we can win though, right? Maybe this will cheer Pinkie up."
>She doesn't know how to help Pinkie out in this situation and she clearly shows it in her desperate attempt of lifting the mood.
>Another beep goes off, starting a countdown starting at 5 and goes to 1, which in turn opens up the gates in front of you, starting the game.
"May the games begin."
>Within a few moments, you find that Applejack and Twilight aren't really with you anymore, but they're nearby.
>From what you remember, Applejack is pretty good and Twilight could always be worse so you lack a large amount of concern.
>After half a minute of silence, you hear a few shots from the upper level and you find Rarity.
>*Pew pew* Your gun makes a cheesy gun noise but nonetheless, the Unicorn's vest lights up.
>You chuckle lightly and she returns with a playful smile.
>You stay at ground level for a few more minutes until the sound of two ponies from behind you turns your attention.
>Applejack and Twilight are running down the stairs, shaking their head no and then see you.
>Rainbow shoots you from behind.
>"Woo hoo! Might want to watch your tail Anon."
>As cocky as it sounds, you know she's being playful.
>A smile is stamped on your face for a brief moment before beginning to walk upstairs. There is a neutral charging station so it'd be nice to see the commotion while getting your health back.
>Downstairs, four ponies are having a good time, laughing and firing from across the bottom floor.
>Upstairs seems rather barren though.
>You press a button and recharge, followed by you turning around and beginning to head back until your shields go down once more.
"The hell?"
>You look down at your vest and press the button again slowly.
>Same result.
>You turn around and see a pink mare walking towards you, her gun in her front hooves.
>Are you even shocked?
>It would seem that the glare in her eyes hasn't shifted much.
>You press the button again and she shoots at your face despite there not being any sensors there.
>This continues for a second until you shoot one of the targets on her vest and she halts her firing.
"You missed."
>"Shocking."
>The monotone in her voice displays a large amount of sarcasm.
"You know, I've been thinking and it sounds like your upset."
>You don't know what is doing it, but you're mood switches from guilt to anger in the blink of an eye.
>"Hm, I wonder why! Maybe it's because I've had my heart crushed and toyed with for almost two weeks."
>She shoots your vest, hoping it would take out some anger. It did help her a little.
"You ever thought that that could be caused by you suddenly implanting such a large scale situation into a peaceful relationship?"
>You shoot her vest back.
>Both of your voices are beginning to rise in volume, but fortunately the music in the background is enough to mute your sounds for the other four.
>"Hypothetically! If someone were SO inconsiderate to let this situation occur, what if someone has been torn apart for months between keeping a friend and risking that friend for something more?!"
"Maybe that FRIEND wouldn't know what to do when confronted by something of the sorts."
>At this point, your both subconsciously shooting each other's vest until they run out of ammo and health.
>"By chance, maybe I would be able to help this person with the situation instead of ignoring them altogether."
>The second person 'theoretical' conversation switches to reality.
"Well maybe I'm afraid! Alright?! Maybe I have no idea what I'm doing, or what love even is, or maybe I don't even know how to act socially altogether!"
>"Well maybe I'm as scared as you."
>The anger from her face is no longer present as what she said was followed by a 'hiccup' and a lone tear falling down her cheek.
"Well..."
>You hit the charging station with a large force, somehow not doing any damage to it.
"Dammit..."
>You begin to slide down and sit, leaning against the station.
"Dammit, dammit, DAMMIT!"
>Pinkie sobs softly, sitting and leaning against the charging station as well.
>Her tears die down and you are left without words to say.
>"Why does it hurt so much?"
>The music in the background is nonexistent to you two, leaving your sigh of despair all the more clearer.
"I don't know Pinkie."
>Both of you turn around to face each other, still sitting.
"To be honest, I really don't want to be upset at you. I don't even know why I am. I don't even THINK I am."
>"I don't want to be mad at you either. You're my closest friend and I'm.... I'm just really scared. I haven't loved someone before, at least not like this."
>The fog in the room fails to hide her distress and confusion.
>You chuckle slightly.
"Hey. Remember how we met?"
>She giggles with you and the two progressively build up over time.

>It was a dark day outside. The weather was overcast and drizzles of rain were beginning to come up. You sat inside of a fast food restaurant, grabbing a bite to eat to calm yourself after your sudden placement in this weird pony world.
>You sat alone on the empty side of the establishment, rubbing one of your temples.
>A group of mares sat on the other side talking loudly and filling in the silence that laid there because other ponies kept quiet when talking or didn't make a sound at all.
>You don't remember what anyone around you was saying, your mind being preoccupied.
>"Woah, what is that?!"
>The voice sounded like Rainbow Dash, but you wouldn't bet on it.
>"I think it's a.... No, it's not a human. Those are only in stories."
>Eventually, the whole group got into their own conversation and eventually began to argue, no, debate. 'Debate' is a better word.
>Just when you were about to leave, one of the mares came up to talk to you.
>"Hell-OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! My friend Twilight, a unicorn and super cool friend of mine, did I already say friend? I don't know. But anyways, she wanted to do some AWESOME research with you because apparently she hasn't seen a human before! Would you be alright with that? Or like, okay? What's the difference in those two words? 'Alright' sounds friendlier than 'okay'. Right?"
>'The hell is she talking about?'
"Uh, look, I appreciate the offer and all but-"
>"So you'll do it?! Great!"
>Somehow, this pony would become your best friend. This outgoing, optimistic, socially active mare would become your best friend.
>How the hell did that happen?
>She grabbed onto your wrist and began pulling you over to the group and you immediately retaliated.
"Woah, what gives?!"
>A few ponies were watching from their booths.
>Before the pink pony could get her word out, Twilight came over and started apologizing about her friends actions.
>She nervously chuckled before speaking. "Sorry about that. My name is Twilight Sparkle and I study-"
"No."
>"Oh, okay, sorry for bothering."
>She walked back to her table, ears lowered.
>They came back a few minutes later with 100 bits.
>If you didn't need the cash, that may have been the last time you ever saw them.

>You are knocked back into reality due to Pinkie speaking up.
>"Yeah, sorry about that. I suppose it was a teeny tiny bit rude."
"If anything, I was being rude. I'm just glad you gave me a reason to help Twilight with 'research'."
>There is a short pause in the conversation. You both stare off into the dimly lit room filled with obstacles, a thin fog, and neon shining lights.
>"Do you think we'll be alright Anon?"
"I hope so. We can't ignore each other like this."
>She nods her head.
>"I don't want you to hate me."
"I don't Pinkie, I promise. I would never."
>A gentle smile pops onto her face and she leans over to kiss you on your cheek.
>She stands on all fours and hits the charging station, shooting your vest right afterwards.
>"Ha! Got'cha!"
>You stand as well and the two of you walk in different directions downstairs, enjoying your time playing Laser Tag.
>Who knows? Maybe this will be one of the last memories you two make. Hopefully, it will linger clearly in your mind and represent good times.
>Just as you were stepping down to the lower floor, the game gives the warning for a minute left in the game.
>How long were you up there? It must have been a while. It felt like a century for sure.
>Twilight is busy holding off Rainbow, Rarity, and now Pinkie while Applejack comes up to talk to you.
>"How did everythin' go?"
"What do you mean?"
>"Anon, you walked up there ten minutes ago and have a fourth the total amount of points as me. I know ya' weren't shooting her, so how did the talk go?"
>Damn, she is pretty smart.
>You give in.
"It went uh... Well, it could have gone worse I guess."
>"That's good ah' suppose."
>You give a gentle smile and shrug your shoulders.
>"Alright then."
>The loud speaker goes off "Thank you for playing Lazer Tag with us today! We hope you enjoy the rest of your time at Mane Event."
>Twilight turns around at you, smiling and giving off a calm excitement.
>"MVP (Most Valuable Pony) on the team! How about that?"
"Nicely done Twilight."
>The look she gives you indicates that she knows why she did so well compared to you.
>You begin walking out, seeing Pinkie talking to Rainbow through holes in the obstacles on the other side.
>She seems more joyful than she has been for two weeks.
>"Maybe talking to her more will prevent her getting so pissed off..."
>Out of the arena, vest off, and back into the main plaza of the building.
>Suddenly, you remember why you wanted to play Laser Tag in the first place.
>Your smile turns to Rainbow who returns your expression with confusion.
"Hey Dash."
>Your voice said it all. Her face dropped and she sighed, Applejack remembering the situation a few moments later and giggling alongside her friend.
>"Well, let's see who won I guess."
>'Oh shit, there was a second part to that bet I made at last second.'
>You think that you should have been playing the game instead of talking to Pinkie, but you wouldn't give up that moment for anything.
>Despite the anger, despite the pain, despite the hurt.
>"Pinkie's team won."
>Rainbow Dash cheers, jumping into the air in excitement.
>Most of the group is confused at the unnecessary excitement.
>Rainbow Dash pets her mane as Applejack frowns just a little.
>"Tat's uh shame."
>You seem expressionless. You're not upset or happy for Rainbow, just unconcerned. More important matters are going through your mind.
>You and the whole group begin to walk over to the arcades, Rainbow explaining to the whole group what had happened.
>Why the sudden loss in energy? You're not mad about Rainbow's situation, but Pinkie has this look on her face.
>Discomfort.
>No, a sort of, confusion. As if she can't decide whether she is happy or sad.
>Is she even listening to Rainbow? What's her mind focused on?
>Eventually, the group finds itself spread out in the arcade area.
>You push in a second bit into a racing game, sitting in the chair as you do so.
>Gripping the wheel firmly and relaxing, you breathe out.
>That's when she comes beside you and sits down.
>Well, this might be the day you have to decide, whether you're ready or not.
>"So, um, Anon?"
>She sits down in the seat to your right.
"What's up?"
>"Well, I uh...."
>She blushes, almost more heavily than when she first misunderstood you at the park.
>She puts in two bits and faces the screen, closing her eyes and having a tight grip on the wheel.
"Yes?"
>"I was wondering how you were feeling... About... Us...."
"Well, uh..."
>You noticed that you've been pausing more often in your sentences more recently.
>How does one mare affect so much in your life because of a tiny little slip up?
"I hope you realize that the feeling isn't... Mutual..."
>Her ears lower, her grip loosens from the tire, and she begins turn to walk away.
>Quickly but softly, you grab her hoof and stop her.
"I don't necessarily... Not, love you though..."
>"Please don't toy with me Anon."
"What do you mean?"
>"These past few weeks have been some of the worst of my life. I may even go as far to say THE worst."
>It's just come to you that her speaking speed is dramatically slower than what it has always been.
>"It... It just...."
>She holds back tears through tough struggling.
>"It hurts me. Not just emotionally, but physically. My heart burns a little when I see you. At the same time though, it flutters."
>You rub your left bicep with your right hand, feeling awkward and uncomfortable in this situation.
"Oh..."
>'Man I'm stupid! How can she profess her love to me with relative ease and all I can say is "oh" like a moron.'
>"I guess I'm just having a hard time cooping with the difficulty you're having trying to decide. It was so easy for me to just know. I felt like you were perfect for me. I can't find a thing wrong with you."
>'I have more flaws than I do days I have been alive.'
>"I know it is stupid... I shouldn't even be talking to you about it. I should have just shrugged it off like it was nothing."
>Here's your chance to be a decent person.
"Look, Pinkie, I know I haven't taken this news well. I have trouble with these kinds of things. I don't know what 'this' feeling even is."
>She pouts her head, shying away behind her silky long straight hair.
>"Yeah, I get it Anon."
>Do you have permission to touch her hair? Will she let you hold her? Would you be able to tell her that 'everything will be alright in the end'?
>Another awkward silence arises. What is there to say?
>You lift your legs up and stack them atop the steering wheel in front of you, breathing out uncomfortably.
>She faces the screen and presses start, going through different options of what to select.
>After 30 seconds or so she is at the waiting menu. 20 seconds on the clock for other players to join.
>You put your feet down and look over, hitting start and beginning to go through the menu yourself.
>No matter how depressing the situation may be, she is still a friend.
>Maybe more than a friend, but you haven't decided yet. Why? Who knows?
>You go through the option as if your were speed running a video game.
>Far right, nitro bonus, cool.
>*Click* alright, medium-hard car with some specs that no one could identify given that the screen flew by so fast.
>A few progressions later and you are in the menu, ready to start a game with Pinkie, only three seconds before the time was up.
>3, 2, 1, Start the race.
>Through the next five minutes, you tried your best to be energetic. Pinkie gave a straight Poker Face and towards the end you gave up on being energetic.
>You won, but you played video games often while she did things that actually mattered.
>The two of you let out a small chuckle, smiling calmly and crossing your arms.
>'Please don't let the joy end. I want the good times back. I want my best friend back, Pinkie Pie.'
>"Good job, Anon."
"Thanks."
>'Say something idiot! Speak! Be a man!'
"So, are we um... Okay?"
>It's odd how you think confidentially but act stupidly.
>She looks away.
>"Yeah, we're good Anon."
>A wave of relief washes over you.
>You smile and begin to turn to get out of the seat, facing away from Pinkie as did so.
>She didn't move an inch, all she did was face towards the ground, not seeming to hold true to what she said.
"That's good Pinkie. I would hate for our friendship to be broken ove-"
>"Actually Anon, it's not fine. It's not okay."
>'Oh no.'
"What do you me-"
>"You know what I mean. I can't do it Anon. I just can't!"
>Rather than attempt to object, you let her slam the words onto you.
>"It breaks my heart every time I think of you which is CONSTANTLY, and I can't help but cry inside every night."
"You don't think this is hurting me too?"
>"NO! I don't! I think you have been taking your free time and going about your handy dandy life with MY friends and treating it like filly's play!"
"But y-"
>"There is nothing you could possibly say. NOTHING."
>You look to your right, away from here, not out of fear but in guilt.
>You haven't taken it seriously. Not seriously enough that is.
>Why are you terrible?! Why?!?!
>"Tell me Anon. Tell me how you feel."
>Is this a psychology question?
"Wh-what do you mean?"
>Her voice was nearly yelling at his point. Fortunately, ponies weren't at this side of the arcade to hear it.
>"How do you feel? About, us?"
>She stuttered for a moment.
>The amount of care she has is seen more visibly as her eyes water.
>"Do you love me or not? I cannot keep playing your game. Two weeks is WAY too long for a stallion to make a choice like this. So do you or do you not?"
"I don't know."
>"DO YOU OR DO YOU NOT?!"
"I DON'T KNOW."
>"Anon, tell me right now, do you love me?"
"I GUESS NOT!"

>There was a halt in the conversation. The background noise of other people talking and playing was unheard.
>She stared at you through a void.
>There's something interesting about seeing how others react to their world being shattered.
>She looks directly at you, but through you somehow.
>Pinkie was speechless for a moment longer, and then her eyes let out lone tears from each one.
>She sniffled and backed away from you slowly.
>"Well then..."
"Pinkie..."
>Too late, she was already running off in the opposite direction.
>Your eyes burn as they push tears through them. Your sobbing is quiet and subtle.
>Weakly, you follow her footsteps.
>There wasn't any purpose in doing so, it was clear that she wasn't going to change her mind, let alone you have the chance to catch her.
>She sprinted so fast, each step hitting the ground to form an earthquake.
>All of it happened in such a blur, and yet somehow you can't help but ask yourself-
"Why of all days did I have to come here?"
>It was bound to happen eventually. One day, you'd screw up your closest relationship with anyone because you couldn't make a decision.
>If you had the feeling that you do now earlier, there isn't any doubt in your mind that you would take her into your arms. You'd love her and care for her and hell, even marry her!
>All because you couldn't lose her, like you have now.
>Your footsteps take you to the front down where you stop moving. Below you are two minuscule lines of water that stay equally for the most part.
>But it isn't water and you know that.
>In the right stream you see the color switch from clear to a transparent white.
>Maybe there's a hint of purple closer to the top of the white?
>You turn to find Rarity standing near you, rubbing her mane on your leg out of sympathy, to provide a little bit of comfort in a seemingly endless time.
>The others were less interested in you.
>Rainbow was seen flying out the door a moment later, as a burst of violet magic was seen a little ways away.
>Twilight had teleported over to the front door and turned her attention to you for a moment.
>"You are going to regret this, you know that?"
>A subtle nod is all you could give. Any word you spoke would stain your shirt with 'water' (as you would consider it).
>She glares at you until Applejack catches up with her and two two run outside of the door at full sprint.
>A few looks around from other ponies is fortunately all you received.
>The last thing you want to be is the center of attention for this... It'd be a nightmare.
>Not that it isn't a nightmare already.
>A few moments of silence rushed over you and the sweet white mare.
>Maybe it's the stress but you become unnervingly hungry.
>You grasp your stomach and rub clockwise as Rarity looks up at you.
>Asking to grab something to eat seems impossible at the moment. Speaking is a little bit hard on you at the moment.
>Fortunately your (possibly only one now) friend notices your distress and hunger.
>"Are you okay Anon?"
>It's clear that she is beating herself up over her own question. How could you be okay?
>You shake your head left to right while your stomach grumbles softly.
>"Did you want to grab something to eat, dear?"
>You nod like a helpless toddler. It's not like you aren't a helpless toddler though.
>She takes your hand with her soft hoof and begins to lead you over to a nearby food court.
>Helpless: You're unsure of what to think, say, or do.
>Her gentle smile definitely takes some of the edge off. It's the prettiest thing you've seen all day.
>Toddler: Why couldn't you just tell her no? Or for that matter, yes? Hell, you still don't know how you feel about the two of you in an intimate relationship.
>Why couldn't any of this simply not have happened?
>Rarity orders for the two of you, being the good friend she is she knows exactly what you want.
>You don't even know what you want to eat.
>The two of you sit down at a table and wait for the order number to come up.
>She gives you a minute more to relax before speaking.
>"Sweetie?"
>A relaxing sensation washes over you. It's the best feeling you've had in a while.
"Y-yeah?"
>"Would you mind talking about it? Please?"
>You may have said no in a heart beat, and that be the end of it, but she pleaded for you to tell her. At least, it sounded as such to you.
"Sure, Rarity."
>The two of you smile at each other. Hers was sympathetic while yours represented the facial expression of a train wreck.
>If you really screwed up with Pinkie, Rarity can take her place for su-
>No no no, shut up.
>"Anon, dear?"
>Your head subtly shakes as your confused thoughts flee away, leaving you, Rarity, and the aftermath of a horrible day.
"Oh uh, yeah?"
>"So, would you please tell me how you feel? I want to help."
>Silently, she is able to observe every bit of distraught in your body.
"I don't know how to describe it. I don't know what I'm doing anymore to be honest with you."
>She touches a hoof to your nearly shaking hand. It, once more, relaxes you.
>You let out a relaxed breath and give her a weak smile.
"I guess I just... In a way, I do love her, but maybe not how she loves me."
>She listens carefully, almost as if she is dissecting your words, looking ever so closely at them.
"I remember meeting her for the first time and I couldn't help but truly hate her. Like, in all honesty I didn't want to be around you guys."
>The two of you chuckle.
"And please believe me, it wasn't you, it was me for sure. I had always been uncomfortable with others. Never was I a popular kid in high school, or was known at all the parties, or for that matter even went to the parties. Pinkie Pie helped to get me out of my shell to some degree, as did the rest of you, and for that I'm thankful."
>Her grip on your hand tightens a little, the soft fur padding her already fluffy hoof.
"Despite all of that, something none of you gave me was an understanding of what to do on a date, or how to respond to a 'crush'."
>A number is called and Rarity's ear perked up.
>She nudged her head over to the counter, not wanting to be rude and just leave you.
>You nod politely and her grip slowly retracts from your palm while you let go of her.
>While you may seem fine for the most part, your mind is away, bashing every thing you love and hate about yourself.
>On this one day, you don't deserve peace, or joy, or pleasure. Nonetheless, Rarity is here to relax you and make you smile. Not to mention, when has food not pleasured you?
>Her return is calm and elegant.
>In front of you she lays down two slices of pizza, a coffee, and a soda.
>You'd normally never eat things of the sort in front of Rarity, but fortunately she didn't seem to mind.
>The pizza finds its way into your hands and then into your dry mouth which you moist with a sip of the soda.
>God damn it's so good.
>"Do you like it Anon?"
"I don't think I could be more thankful for it, Rarity."
>She giggles and the two of you sigh out.
>Your eyes drift off to your right before Rarity gathers your attention.
>"Look Anon, the way you responded is wrong, you understand that, right?"
>You nod, your face showing guilt.
>"But here's what I'll say... While you may have waited for a few weeks before giving her an answer, telling her in the end how you actually felt was the best thing you could have done."
>Once again, your mouth is motionless but your face pouts. Why is there nothing more you could have done? Why did it have to end like this?
"I don't want to lose her is the thing... I need Pinkie still, she is my closet friend."
>"Then here is what you do. You have given her a while already, but let her relax for another week. It's not so long to where she hates you, but it's just long enough to where she will be pleasantly jovial to see you."
"But then what do I say? Sorry for hanging you on a thread for two weeks and then completely shoving you into the ground like the ass I am?"
>She holds back a chuckle as to not be rude. Rarity has always found your sarcastic outburst to be rather funny, but now isn't the time for laughter.
>"No sweetie. You go up to her in a week and you tell her how you feel."
>How do you even fe-
>Nope, you know how you feel. You've know this entire time.
>It breaks your heart that you don't love her back. You care for her so much, but can't give her what she wants, and maybe that's why it hurts.
>You nod your head, delayed though.
"Thank you Rarity."
>She grabs your hand that is covered in crumbs from the pizza and winks.
>She holds onto your hand for a little while longer before pulling away very slowly.
>The rest of the meal was held in silence.
>Finishing your meals, Rarity throws away the trash despite your chivalrous attempts to do it yourself.
>Both of you begin walking out, you bringing your soda to go.
>Hell, it's a free refill! Who would turn that down?
>The two of you end up outside Mane Event and begin to walk.
>"Do you think you'll be alright sweetie?"
"Thanks to you, I think I'll be alright, yeah."
>"You're sure?"
"Yes yes yes, I promise."
>She nuzzled your leg softly, ruining her mane. Though, it had already been slightly reconfigured from the Laser Tag.
>"That's good. I don't want anything to happen to you. You'd tell me if anything happened, right?"
"Of course."
>Somehow, Rarity seems almost as stressed about you as... well, you do.
>"Do you need anything?"
>At this point, she is worrying too much. You'll be fine... Hopefully.
>You bed down and give her a hug.
"I promise you I will be okay. Don't worry too much, okay?"
>She nodded, brushing against your head with her mane.
>The two of you back away from each other.
"I'll see you later. Cool?"
>"Cool!"
>She giggled a little at her use of the word.
>"Stay safe, dear!"
>You wave goodbye, almost synchronized with her.
>Now that Rarity is gone, you are left alone with you and your thoughts, for a week.
>For a week.
>A full week.
>While it wasn't unusual for you to be alone for so long, the lingering memory of the past two weeks is what will practically drive you insane.
>You and Pinkie are enjoying yourselves at a park, then you slip up and for a brief moment she thinks the two of you are in love with each other, you both meet up once or twice in sadness within the next two weeks, then you fight...
>Then you fight...
>For four days, you're left alone in a daily routine of practically nothing.
>You wake up at 3:00... In the afternoon.
>Damn, where did the day go?
>Your bed is comfy but somehow it exhaust you to lay down in it?
>In three days, you will be talking to Pinkie Pie once again. You need to figure out what you will say to her but it takes so much energy to do so.
>You groan out. She is all that has been running through your mind for weeks. It gives you a head ache just to think about her.
>Your right hand finds itself rubbing your head and lowering down to scratch the stubble you've formed over the past few days.
>Shockingly enough, you didn't have any alcohol last night. Or the night before.
>Maybe that's the problem? Maybe you should dri-
>A knock at the door halts your thoughts.
"Who the hell...?"
>You go downstairs and open your door. It was significantly larger than other doors in Ponyville, but it wasn't an ungodly tall size.
>Fluttershy stood, looking to the ground.
>She looked up and became a flush red, swinging her arms behind her body quickly to hide something she was holding.
>"H-hi Anon..."
"Hey Fluttershy. What's going on?"
>You seemed like a slob in your stained grey shirt and boxers. Meanwhile, Fluttershy was a nervous wreck, unable to form words.
"Hey, you alright?"
>"Y-y-yes..."
>She seems more uneasy than usual.
"Did you want to come in?"
>Fortunately, you seem to be the dirtiest thing in the house. Alone time does produce productivity sometimes.
>"Sure."
>You open the door, scratching your head in confusion.
>Lazily and shakily, she hands you something red.
>Given time to process it, you see it's a box of chocolates in a heart shape.
"Aw, how sweet. What for?"
>"You just seemed down and upset and I, uh..."
>You pat Fluttershy's back, though it seems that's not the desired response.
"Thanks Fluttershy."
>She smiles gently, shying away though. A hint of disappointment is seen on her face but she hides it well.
>"So uh, how have you been feeling anyways? I heard about the thing that happened."
>She doesn't need to address it directly. What other 'thing' could she be talking about?
"So-so I guess."
>You shrug, pushing back how you actually feel. You've done enough thinking on the subject.
>Fluttershy raises a suspicious brow towards you.
>"What do you mean 'so-so'?"
"Well, I'm doing alright, I guess. Could be worse, huh?"
>Throughout the months you've known Pinkie, some of her optimism has rubbed off on you. At the least you can fake it now.
>"Oh, I'd imagine you'd be hurting really badly. I'm glad you're taking it very lightly."
>Simple as that to fake joy.
"Thanks."
>"So, if you don't mind telling me, what uh... DID happen?"
>You rub your chin as you walk towards the kitchen to grab some Advil for your headache, waving your hand in a way to ask the yellow mare to follow you.
"Well, to give you the short story, I screwed up. She didn't appreciate it, and now I'm left with my thoughts."
>"What?"
>She seemed confused and unsatisfied with your 'shortened version'. To be fair, it was pretty half-assed, but talking about the situation in depth doesn't really help out with bottling up how you feel.
>"Could tell me the long version then? If it's not too much of a bother to you that is..."
>You'd say 'no' to most ponies but Fluttershy is a hard one to turn down.
>Her sweet, confused head tilt is what breaks you to give in.
"Alright, well... It's a long story."
>You swallow three Advil tablets and sit down at your Kitchen table, opening up a seat for Fluttershy to sit down at.
>She takes up your offer and sits next to you.

>After a forty five minute story, your distress shows a little more.
>For whatever reason, the Advil didn't do much to help you out.
>Maybe you should take more. After all, what does a ponies size compare to yours?
>You take a fourth pill and rub your head.
>"That sounds dreadful Anon."
>You nod your head in response to Fluttershy's comment.
"It could be worse, I guess."
>She tilts her head once more, showing concern for you.
"Now in a couple of days I need to go talk to her. I'm not really sure what to say and besides you and Rarity, I'm not getting a whole lot of help."
>"How am I helping? I don't think I've really done enough to-"
"Venting."
>She looks up from her slouching position with curiosity.
"Venting, it helps to vent out to someone. You're more of a help that you realize."
>Perhaps she hasn't done a lot, but you don't want to lower her spirits. After all, she's making an effort to help you, isn't she? That's more than what can be said about some other ponies.
>To be fair, they probably don't think that you need any help. If anything, you're surprised they haven't tried to take you down a notch for your 'actions'.
>"Oh. Well, it's my pleasure sweetie."
>She blushed heavily after realizing what she had said, becoming wide eyed and squealing.
"It seems Rarity is brushing off of you a bit, huh?"
>Fluttershy takes the opportunity to make an excuse.
>"Y-yeah. That."
>You smile with content and yawn, rubbing your eyes.
>Perhaps you aren't tired, but you don't want to be awake. Life can sure as hell be exhausting sometimes.
"So anyways, what have you been up to?"

>The two of you make small talk for an hour longer or so, when a knock is heard on the door.
>You raise a brow and go to answer it, leaving Fluttershy in the kitchen.
>The knock grew continuously louder.
>Normally, you'd have asked who it is beforehand but in recent times you aren't in your best senses.
>Upon opening it, you find Twilight, tensed from anger, glaring down at you.
>Maybe of all days, this should have been the one that you did ask who it was.
>"You've got some explaining to do mister!"
>This wasn't the angriest you've seen her, but it is the most upset she's ever been at you.
"Please, come on in Twilight."
>The sarcasm in your voice is clear.
>She storms in, yelling at you.
>"You mind telling me why you hurt Pinkie like that?"
>Somehow, you held back a chuckle at her ignorance of the situation.
>"Pinkie doesn't deserve what you're doing to her! She is kind, innocent, and sweet! She makes every pony happy and then you have to go and ruin her spirits because why exactly?!"
>You hold out a hand and move it down, signalling for her to calm down.
"Twilight relax, let me-"
>"Don't tell me to relax! I want to know what is going through-"
"Twilight-"
>"-your mind! Do you even know what you have been doing? Do you even realize the power you have right now?"
"Please let me-"
>Fluttershy comes out of the kitchen and is noticed by Twilight.
>"Oh! And then you have the heart to use Fluttershy to make you seem all innocent! Because everyone knows Fluttershy wouldn't hurt a fly, and you're hanging out with her, so clearly you're the good guy, right?"
>Both of your voices raise dramatically, but still gradually.
"Twilight, I can explain wh-"
>"Taking advantage of her fondness of you so you can act like you haven't done anything wrong huh?"
"TWILIGHT, shut the hell up and let me speak!"
>Your voice was firm, loud, and terrifying.
>The Alicorn bent down slightly, covering her face with her wing.
>Fluttershy was covering herself with her fore hooves.
>You didn't even realize you had raised your first in the air. You weren't going to do anything, but subconsciously you almost wanted to.
>Rolling your eyes, your fist lowers and you roll your eyes at two.
"Would you let me explain now?"
>She stands back up firmly.
>"Fine. This ought to be good."
>You step back from Twilight at a distance that is more comfortable for 'casual' speaking.
>Your headache makes your head throb.
>'Damn, it really hurts at this point.'
>You sigh out and look to Twilight, speaking as calmly as you possibly can.
"Where would you like me to start?"
>"Start where you began hurting Pinkie's feeling like a je-"
"Shut up shut up shut up."
>Your hands rubbing on your face are somewhat soothing.
>Fortunately, Twilight backed off from you.
"How about the beginning?"
>She nods contently.
>"Fine."

>After once again explaining the whole situation -though, perhaps a little more passive aggressively from how you told Rarity and Fluttershy- she looks unsure.
>"Well I uh.... I guess I didn't know that much."
>You nod and wipe your eyes once more, your voice being muffled.
"Thank you for listening. Are you still pissed off?"
>She shrugged and showed guilt.
>"I suppose not. You probably should have told her though."
"I didn't know what I was feeling Twilight."
>To a strong extent, she could relate to being socially awkward. After all, she was a bookworm with little experience and understanding of social cues.
>"I guess I should go tell everyone else."
>You shrug and cross your arms.
>Fluttershy finally comes out of the kitchen and into the living room with the two of you, taking a seat on your couch.
>You sit on the same couch but on the opposite side.
>While the approval of the other ponies may not have been something you were too interested in, it was still nice to have Twilight no longer constantly bugging you and blaming you for something that was somewhat out of your control.
>How were you supposed to know how to respond? You've never been taught anything in this kind of subject.
>"Well, I guess I owe you an apology Anon."
>She begins but you cut her off.
"Don't worry about it Twilight."
>Her face shows the desire to continue, but halts.
>Twilight looks around and begins heading for the door, almost ashamed of her previous anger.
>A thought from a few moments ago kicks back into your mind.
"Hey Fluttershy? What did she mean by a 'fondness'?"
>She shrugs nervously, looking away. Twilight giggles a little which raises your brow.
>Fluttershy walks over to Twilight, hiding her face.
>"Alright Anon, I guess Fluttershy and I will take off."
"See you guys later."
>You felt a little more relaxed than you had when Twilight had first walked in. Having others understand your situation is relieving.
>The two mares wave goodbye to you and once again, you are left alone with your thoughts.
>For three days that is. Then it's go time.

>You got yourself back on schedule and manage to wake up at 10:00 Am today.
>The weather outside showed overcast. Peaceful, but perhaps to some it could be seen as depressing.
>When do you want to go over there? Not to early in the day, she'll probably be working... If you go too late, she'll be sleeping.
>7:00 Pm. The sky will be a calming twilight and perfect to tell her everything.
>You can't screw this up though. This is practically everything you have with Pinkie, all on the line.
>Before stepping out of bed, you rest your eyes for a few minutes long.
>Upon opening them, you see the time is 11:00 Am now.
"Man, Time flies sometimes."
>Chuckling, you try to get a little bit of optimism in for today. If you're fortunate enough, so of it will rub back onto Pinkie.
>It'd only be proper to return the favor.
>You begin whistling to yourself a poppy tune to get your vibes up ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLkv61zZANg [Embed] ).
>The meaning could be a little bit more jovial, but it's fun so who cares?
>Taking off your boxers, you turn on the shower to a satisfying warm and begin shaving.
"Sorry about my past life, sorry but we just missed, sorry it had to end up like this."
>You've lost all focus on the lyrics and direct yourself to the melody playing inside of your head.
>After shaving, you rub your jawline and rub up on your cheek, then step into the shower.
"Thought I knew you better then, thought I knew your intentions."
>The shampoo in your hair is incredibly relaxing.
"Thought I knew, but didn't have a clue."
>You smile, pausing and taking a deep breath in
>At the top of your lungs you sing/scream:
"Not a single damn thing was true!"
>Fortunately, no one is able to hear you shouting like a moron.
>You laugh, showing joy. It's been rare within these three weeks, but sometimes it's the small things that bring out a smile.
>Sometimes it's fun to shout too.
>You rub soap on your shins, then to your thighs and up until you reach your clean shaven neck.
>Once finished taking a shower and getting ready, you go down to eat breakfast, noticing the time.
>*12:23 Pm*
>The day is flying by fast.
>After realizing you'll be talking to Pinkie again in less than 7 hours you start to panic.
>Well, calmly worry is a better way of putting it.
>You begin rehearsing lines in your head.
>'Pinkie, in some way I do love you but...'
"Too misleading."
>'I don't want us to hate each other over this.'
"Better, I guess."
>You shrug and pour yourself a cup of coffee.
>The headache from a few days back has backed down thankfully. Talking to Pinkie is going to give you enough stress.
>While you rehearse your lines, you start to wonder what Pinkie is doing right now.
>'Did Rarity tell her I was coming today?'
>'Will she instantly close me out?'
>'Does she desperately need to see me?'
>You shake your head involuntarily. A reflex? Flinching out of fear?
>'The word isn't fear really but...'
>You roll your eyes, hoping your way with words will be better tonight than they have been this morning.

>Once your morning routine is finished, you sit down in the living room couch.
>*2:00 Pm*
>A knock is heard on your door. It's gentle, soft, and welcoming.
>You walk over to the door quickly, in a rush to make time run even faster.
"Who is it?"
>"Dear, what did I tell you about asking that? It makes you look insane!"
>It's your motherly figure of a friend, Rarity.
>You smile and roll your eyes, opening the door.
>The white mare is holding a bouquet of pink flowers.
"Uh, Rarity, I don't know if I-"
>"Oh please, don't flatter yourself."
>The two of you laugh and she hands you the flowers.
>"I guarantee you she'll love them. When did you plan on going over today?"
"7:00 Pm."
>"Oooh! Wonderful! Just as the sun is setting! I've taught you well."
>You smile and bend down on one knee, giving Rarity a hug.
"Thanks bud."
>"My pleasure."
>The two of you let go of each other.
>"I had to come over because Celestia knows you'd never actually come over if you'd need any help."
>You smile widely again, as does she.
>It's weird in all honesty. It feels like you're about to take a girl to the prom you never went to, but you're about to clarify how you turned down your best friend.
>She whips her mane to the side gracefully.
>"Well, I believe I'll let you get on with whatever it is you need to prepare. Do you need anything?"
"No, I'll be fine Rarity."
>"Of course you will."
>She heads outside the door and you begin to close it.
>The gradual push of the door is halted by Rarity's hoof from the other side.
>"Oh, and, Anon dear? Be as gentle as possible."
"Noted."
>She nods and allows the door to be closed.
>You let out a deep exhale. It fills the calming quietness of the house.
>Now you wait once more.
>You go to sit on your couch, lifting your feet onto the soft cushions you lay upon.
>The thoughts and memories of Pinkie dangle over your head. All the good ones, all the bad ones, all that were mediocre -though, those were rare- they all flooded into your mind in a linear time lapse.
>And all of the were worth it.
>While it's entirely possible that you're going to lose your best friend in a night, there's a calming tone behind it. Something that brings peace.
>The feeling is similar to losing someone close to you in war. Perhaps you'll never see them again. Maybe they're gone forever. But hell, it was a good run, and it went out strong.
>Thoughts of war are what accompany your motionless body for the next couple of hours.
>A cool, nightly breeze touches your face and refocuses your body.
>Your body tells you that you're just waking up. Perhaps you were very deep in thought.
>The hours of thinking have left the time to be at 6:15 Pm.
>Fortunately, you're all ready.
>After grabbing a small snack from the fridge, you head on out.
>It was rather normal for you to eat very little. Oddly enough, you ate more when you were stressed.
>With as little as you've had today, it's clear to see that you're not stressed.
>The stronger breeze that attacks you when you leave your house encourages the calming aura you shed off.
>You didn't have to leave just yet. It only takes a few minutes to go to Pinkie's house. You felt compelled to though.
>The sunset really is lovely. You picked a good time to come do this.
>Ponyville is silent at the moment. It's lovely. A few ponies are outside but the clouds above calm them down enough.
>You walk near Pinkie's street and stop yourself inside of a store to look around.
>"Hey there sir! What can I do for ya today?"
"Nothing, I'm fine, thanks."
>Your body language shows reservation and the stallion up front backs off respectively.
>After a few minutes of mindless browsing to keep yourself occupied, you find yourself near the back, next to shelves of hoodies and jackets.
>Might as well buy Pinkie something while you're here.
"Hm..."
>Grabbing a pink jacket lined with red, you nod in approval.
"She'll go for this."
>You at least hope she will.
>The insides are soft like her hooves. The color resembles bubblegum with how it burst out. And the lining is sewn it subtly, like a rose that's in a tux.
>Your body postures itself, the light bulb hovering over your head practically shining up the whole store.
>What did you forget?
>Rose... Flower... Flowers...
"Ah shit."
>You snap your fingers and quickly walk up to the front counter, handing the cashier the jacket.
>"Will that be all sir?"
"Yes please."
>You hand him 35 bits to pay for the coat and begin to walk out quickly before he can properly see you out.
>Fortunately, you left early enough that you can afford this one mistake.
>After a few minutes, you are back at your front porch, almost breaking a sweat.
>You walk into your house and grab the flowers, checking the time once more.
>Being there at exactly 7:00 shouldn't even matter but it feels important.
>*6:50 Pm*
"Well then..."
>Before walking back out, you look in the kitchen at your refrigerator.
>Sighing, you run in there and grab the box of chocolates Fluttershy had given you a few days back.
>Specifically for you.
>She'd understand though, right? She is just a friend after all.
>You head out the door and straight to Pinkie's house.
>You definitely won't be late but you haven't any time to spare.
>Hopefully she'll dig the chocolates, flowers, and jacket you got her.
>Well, you at least bought the jacket on your own, didn't you?
>The flowers were meant for this occasion.
>As far as the chocolates go... Fluttershy wouldn't mind, right?
>She did say there were just because you weren't feeling great.
>And Pinkie needs them more than you do, so it's going for a good cause.
>Why do you not feel panicked? Every muscle in your body is calm, all bones unshaken, everything perfectly fine.
>You can only imagine the pain Pinkie is feeling though.
>Or what if she doesn't care anymore? By chance she has gotten over it and it was just a phase.
>You take a deep breath out as you near her house, trying to not let your mind get the best of you.
>The air has become chiller, the wind quicker, and sky calmer.
>And most notably, the day dimmer.
>It is how you planned it after all.
>Night fall has yet to streak, but at the same time the sun is gone. A perfect twilight.
>Oh yeah, Twilight. Hopefully she doesn't hate your guts anymore. She seemed relaxed on her way out the door a few days ago. Maybe the two of you should try and get to know each other later.
>Later that is. You need to focus now.
>You step up the stairs in front of her house, the concrete making a noticeable difference in the sound of your footsteps compared to the soft dirt.
>Here we go.
>You knock the door calmly three times.
>After a few seconds of waiting, you think that maybe she isn't home. What if she isn't here? What if she is with her friends who actually matter to her?
>Maybe you should just go...
>The door creaks open slowly just as you began turning around.
>For the first time all day, your muscles tense up. The nervous feeling hits you finally.
>"Anon?"
>Her familiar voice is soothing. It's something you need more of.
"Hey."
>"Hey."
>A brief moment of silence strikes the two of you.
>The look on her face it's.... It's not shock, but maybe curiosity. Confusion perhaps?
>It would be well placed anyways. Why the hell are you even here in the first place?
>"What uh..."
>The pause in her voice adds to the tension. She leans against the door with her head and wavers it back and forth.
>Fortunately, she hasn't slammed the door in your face...
>Yet...
>"What brings you over? Did you want something from the bakery? Did you leave something here?"
>She knows exactly why you are here, but she doesn't want this talk to come. She's almost as scared as you are.
"I needed to talk to you Pinkie."
>"About what?"
"You know. The whole thing."
>She sighs, knowing that she can't delay it much longer.
>"Come on in. Let's go upstairs."
>She opens the door widely. Mr. and Mrs. Cake don't seem to be present as far as you can tell.
>Your steps creak the wooden floor board below you, making the lack of words seem more commonplace.
>Upon entering her room, it seems to be the same as it was when you came a week and a half ago.
>Was it really that long since you had been in her room? It used to be twice a week you'd be in there.
>Times have changed, that's for sure.
>She sits on the bed and you close the door behind the two of you.
>"Go ahead and start yelling."
>That's the voice of someone who has completely given up.
>It hurts to know how much you truly meant to her.
"Yell at you? Why would I do that?"
>"Let's see, I put you under stress for nearly a month, I caused a few scenes in public places, I-"
>You stop her while she is ahead.
"What? No no no, Pinkie, if anyone should be yelled at it is me."
>Her eyes have had trouble meeting yours.
>She lays on the bed with her fore hooves crossing and cushioning her head.
>Maybe you should find a seat. The height comparison makes you a little intimidating and less intimate.
>You move around to find a small bench on the other side of her room, underneath a window.
>"Well then, why are you here?
"To talk, with hopefully as little aggression as possible."
>"What did you have in mind?"
"We go back and forth? You tell me how you feel and then I'll do the same."
>"Okay..."
>The two of you look away, not wanting either one to start.
>It's possible neither one of you would have spoken if Pinkie didn't feel the need to release her thoughts so heavily.
>"I-I guess I'll start off."
"Okay..."
>"A-Anon, it wasn't the first time I talked to you, or the second, but the third time around I started to see something in you. I didn't know what it was, but I felt... Weird."
>She chuckles uneasily.
>"Then we talked more and more, and... It wasn't on a single day, but through a few months of thinking I just couldn't get you out of my mind. It would hurt to watch you go home and read your books or something. You didn't want to talk that much and I understood. I wanted to talk to you every chance I got but I knew I couldn't be around you always, despite how much I wanted to. You were the only one I could trust with being sad. I felt comfortable around you, and safe, and out of harm's way, and I..."
>She paused to take a breath in and sniffle. The moonlight struck through the half closed blinds and shined onto Pinkie's face in the dark room.
"Pinkie..."
>"... I don't know. I couldn't help but just feel so close to you, or at least want to be. I hug a lot of ponies but hugging you was different. Snuggling you was different. Everything felt different. I just... I love you so much Anon..."
>She sobbed and pressed her hooves into her face hard.
>You looked over to the jacket you had bought her with the flowers and chocolates underneath it. It had slipped your mind until just now.
>Rushing over to her (and almost knocking over the other gifts in the process) you wrap her in the jacket you got her and hugged her tight.
>Suddenly, the feeling you've had for the past weeks has become all too clear.
>It actually has been sympathy. Sympathy wrapped inside of guilt and fear.
>You feel terrible for Pinkie, awful that she has to go through something like this.
>You fear to lose her and no longer call her your friend.
>You are stricken with guilt, because while it isn't your responsibility to be with her in 'that' way, it's almost an obligation. It's a debt that you're deep in because of everything she has done for you.
>Selfish. You are far from it, there's nothing you can do to change your mind, but you want to to make her happy.
>After a few minutes of sobbing, she calms down and leans on your shoulder, looking to the wall in front of her. The ball bouncing to and fro pops into your mind for a second.
>"Alright... Your turn..."
"Oh, m-my turn. Right."
>You sigh out and hug her tight enough with your left arm to close any gap between the two of you.
"Well, alright then. I have to admit Pinkie, you're amazing in every possible way..."
>Your voice is more confident than it has been on this subject in the past.
"... When I first met you, I thought you were crazy and out of your mind. To be fair, I was too, I just hid it well."
>That gets her to smile. Lucky you.
"And over time, I grew fond of all of you. Everyone in town, everyone in Equestria, it all just turned into common place. Most notably with you though. You and I were so different and for whatever reason, I grew close to you. We weren't forced to hang out, I just kind of wanted to, and hell you loved hanging out with anyone. You became my best friend, and made me a bit more social, and a bit more optimistic, and little more jovial."
>You lay back, keeping your arms spread out despite Pinkie remaining sat up. Your gaze turns to the window, looking out to the stars. The night had finally set in, allowed for a beautiful waning half moon to appear in the sky.
"And I guess, that's how I feel about you. I don't know why, but I can only love you like a best friend..."
>She lightly sobs a little more and turns back to you.
>You lean up a little and wipe a tear from her face, then lay back down.
>It's a little difficult to sit up at the moment. So much pressure onto you all at once.
>"I love you as a friend too but..."
>She lays back into your open arm, putting her head on your chest.
>"I love you so much more than that too."
>Her hoof grips around you tightly and a few tears drop onto your shirt.
>What do you say to that?
>Your brain wraps up two different options:
>Give in right now, tell her it was all a cruel joke and that you'll never let her go.
>Or give it to her straight.
>Your guilt is strong but fortunately your senses know best.
"It hurts me to say it Pinkie but look."
>She faces up at you, her jaw resting on your chest, lips quivering, and eyes sore.
"I... I-I probably will never feel the same. Believe me, I want to feel like that, but I can't."
>She pouts more but her crying stops.
>"Yeah, I know..."
>She rubs her eyes. The emotional energy has taken it out of her.
>Pinkie lays her head back onto your chest sideways, facing towards the blinds.
>"I hope that I can break this curse."
>The words shatter your heart but you still remain strong.
>"I hope you realize I didn't ask to feel like this."
>She lets out a forced chuckle hoping to lighten up the mood, but sadly is ineffective.
>After a few minutes of silence, you speak up.
"Hey Pinkie?"
>"Yeah?"
"Can you give me a full, completely honest answer to a question?"
>"Always Anon."
"Are we okay?"
>She thinks for a moment. The pause is dramatic, sudden, and nerving.
>You remain patient and strong though. She gave you all the time in the world, so now you must give her equal respect.
>A few minutes pass by.
>Why hasn't she responded yet? Did she not hear you? Anything that takes this long to think about is usually a no, isn't it?
"Uh, Pinkie?"
>"Well... I think we'll be okay."
>What a freaking relief.
>You press her closer to you to imitate a hug.
>There's yet another pauses between the two of you.
>For three weeks you have felt sympathy, guilt... Confusion most notably.
>Relief is all you can feel at the moment though, and it's the best relief you've had that you can remember.
"You sure?"
>The two of you chuckle, remembering the outbreak at Mane Event. It was fun to laugh at since it no longer felt like the present.
>It was no longer how the two of you were.
>"I'm positive Anon."
>You notice her straight hair gain in saturation, showing her pink once more.
>It was hard to notice it was even gone since the house was so dark.
>You look over to where you sat a few minutes ago, noticing the other presents you brought for her.
"Oh, hey, I uh got you something else to."
>"It can wait."
>She hugs you tighter, not wanting to let go.
>You can at least give her that, right?
>So you sit and let the time pass. You'd never be able to go to sleep at such an early hour but Pinkie dozes off on your chest, happily.

>After a while, you shake your head and look around, noticing that the sky is completely dark at this point.
>Day dreaming is fantastic and it does a good job of keeping you occupied.
>Pinkie still lays on your chest, the same as... Earlier? What time is it anyways?
>There doesn't seem to be an alarm clock around but you assume that well over an hour is gone.
>Slowly, you step out of the bed and give Pinkie a gentle kiss on her cheek which makes her smile in her sleep.
>That has to be the cutest thing there is.
>You place the gifts at the foot of her bed and begin to walk out.
>The floorboards creak below you with each careful tip toed step.
>Out of her bedroom and closing the door behind you, down the stairs noticing the pictures on the walls, past the baked goods.
>Oh, those look good.
>You can't help but leave a few bits on the table and pull out a cinnamon roll from below.
>Your mind can insult you all you want for being a pig, it's still really good.
>Heading for the door, you slowly turn the knob and open it.
>It's nice to know that you have been here enough to walk around in the dark.
>And now all you have to do is walk outside and-
>"Anon?"
>The light flickers on and you stand there looking stupid with a cinnamon roll in your mouth.
>Slowly turning around, you find Pinkie giggling at you, her hair being bouncy again.
"Uh, yeah?"
>Your words were muffled with food in your mouth.
>She approaches you while you swallow, wiping your mouth.
>"I was just wondering, if uh, well, maybe..."
>Her face grows a bright red and she shies away from you, rubbing one fore leg with the other.
>Of course you know what she wants.
>"... Th-th-thanks for the gifts."
>She looks up at you with an innocent smile and begins to walk away.
>You know damn well that that's not what she wanted.
"Pinkie..."
>"Wh-what?"
"Come on."
>"What do you mean come on?"
>She grows defensive.
"Come over here and ask me for what you want."
>Somehow her face becomes brighter. She's almost shaking at this point.
>Pinkie walks over to you and you bend down in front of the open door.
>"C-Could I have a..."
>She makes a soft whimper trying to say something.
"What was that?"
>"Could I have a kiss please?"
>Her teeth grip her tongue, holding back embarrassment.
"Totally."
>She smiles and stays still. Clearly you'll have to do the work here.
>You pull her close and give her a passionate kiss. Only for her.
>A few seconds pass by and you release, seeing the biggest smile on her face followed by a giggle.
>"I sure could use more of that..."
>Her voice is practically a whisper.
"Maybe as a birthday gift. Or around the holidays."
>You wink at her. Her smile is infectious at this point.
>"See you later Nonny!"
>Aw, a nickname.
>Your hand pulls the door close and your left with the beautiful dark sky that the night beholds.
>Once more you are left alone with your thoughts, but they no longer bring stress.
>Everything feels welcoming again.
>The next day you go to tell Rarity EVERYTHING, and she of course jumps in excitement for you.
>Rainbow Dash, though she may not have shaved her hair, is glad that you both are happy.
>Applejack admits she was about to beat the tar out of you, but you both are able to laugh it off easily.
>Twilight... Oh boy, she's something. She'll call you her 'friend', but try not to push it.
>Fluttershy is as glad to see you as always. Good to know you've had her on your side the whole time.
>As far as Pinkie Pie goes, well... You know what thing.
>While yes, the feeling isn't mutual, maybe it doesn't have to be. It's interesting and complex still, but it doesn't matter too much anymore.
>She is your friend. Your best friend. And while you don't deserve to have her, you love every second of it.

>You and the Pink mare find yourself at the park for a picnic. This time, you're the one to bring the sweets.
"Look, there's absolutely no way your hair just like, goes boof, and then it's done in the morning."
>"Yes it does Nonny! I never do anything with it!"
>You eye her suspiciously with a smile and she returns the favor by sticking out her tongue and teasing you.
>The two of you laugh whole heartily. Everything around you is comfortable and safe.
>When both of your chuckling dies down, Pinkie ask you a question.
>"Hey, Nonny? Where did you get those chocolates from?"
"What? The ones I gave you last night?"
>"Yeah."
"Fluttershy gave them to me. I thought that you would appreciate them more than I would. Hope you don't mind."
>"No no, not at all, they're delicious."
>She gives you an interesting look. Not jealousy, not curiosity, but... Expectancy?
>It's not important anyways.
>"Mmm! I love these cup cakes! You have to show me how you make them sometime."
"My pleasure."
>You both take a can of soda smiling, and cheers it happily.
>And the cans ring on...
>And on...
>And on...
>And never stop.