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Table for Two 6: Prima Piastra

By: Fillydelphian on Jun 7th, 2012 | syntax: None | size: 31.39 KB | hits: 342 | expires: Never

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>The morning comes far too soon
>There's a strong wind blowing outside and this bed is so warm...
>You turn your head to look for a clock
>None to be found
>A pair of velvet-soft forelegs tighten their grip on you as you turn over
>Em stirs from her slumber and slowly opens her eyes as you turn back to her
>You feel your heart melt, seeing her look so peaceful
>Her eyes snap open when you suddenly squeeze her in your arms, but soon close again as a smile traces its way over her face
>”Good morning, Chef”
Good morning, Mayor
>She plants her lips on yours for a moment before letting go of you and working her way out of your grasp
>You follow her with your eyes as she rolls out of bed
>”Well don't just lie there staring, Anon. You might not have work in the morning, but I do, and I need my kitchen cleaned up before I can go anywhere”
Yes, ma'am
>You get yourself out of bed and watch as Em disappears into her bathroom, reemerging a minute later with a toothbrush sticking out of her mouth, pulling a turquoise cravat and collar from her dresser
>After finding and donning your pants and shirt you go to the kitchen start on the cleaning that you left last night
>As you finish the dishes you're struck with a sudden doubt
>Are you making a mistake doing this?
>Can it work out, even?
>Are you just weak for following your desire over your professionalism?
>You think for a second that you might have screwed up badly
>Then you hear Em come down the stairs
>”You know I've still got some time for breakfast...”
1/x
>That voice of hers...
>When she's got her public face on, and she's authoritative and in-charge, it's official-sounding and matriarchal
>But when she's not around her colleagues...that voice can send shivers up your spine
I think I can arrange that. What have we got to work with?
>She walks into the kitchen and opens her refrigerator as you put the last of your dishes back into the bags you brought them in
>As she rummages through it, you hear what sounds like an awful lot of plastic and tin foil crinkling
>You set out a cutting board and look over to the tan mare as she pulls out a carton of eggs, some vegetables, and some cheese
>She lays them on the counter and closes the refrigerator hastily
>You look at her for a second
>Then you turn back to the counter and look over what you've got
>Eggs, tomato, onion, cheddar, and spinach
>Alright, you can work with this
>The knife comes out and you get started
>You take a pan and lay it on the burner, pouring enough oil into it to just coat the surface
>Then you fill a pot with water and set it on a high flame until it comes to a boil
How do poached eggs with sauteed onions and spinach sound? Tomatoes on the side with some salt?
>”That sounds lovely. I'll put some coffee on”
>While you wait for the oil to heat and the water to boil, you dice the onion finely
>To avoid the eye-horror that accompanies chopped onion, you open the faucet
>Em looks at you confused
Old trick I picked up from my teacher in Canterlot. Apparently running water stops the onions burning your eyes
>She nods, intrigued, and goes back to making the coffee
2/x
>After making sure the oil is hot and the spinach is washed, you toss it and the onions into the pan, eliciting a loud hiss and a large plume of steam
Do you have any Oregano on hand?
>”I do, let me get it out”
>Em hurries to the cupboard and searches through her array of spices and herbs before coming back with a container of oregano
Thanks. This should be a nice touch
>You take a pinch of the dried leaves and drop them in with the spinach and onion
>By now the water is boiling
Two eggs, Em?
>”Two sounds good”
Alright
>You crack an egg with one hand and swirl the water with the other
>Em looks on as you drop the egg into the center of the little whirlpool and toss the shell into the trash
>You smile to yourself when you see her watching you work, enthralled
>You pour a bowl of cold water and set it down
>After two minutes, the first egg is cooked and you take it out of the pot with a spoon, dropping it into the cold water to stop the cooking process
>The second egg drops into the pot as you swirl the water again
>While it cooks, you slice the tomato and place half the pieces onto two plates that Em set out on the counter for you
>The second egg comes out and goes into the cold water
>The third egg drops and you turn off the heat under the spinach
>The fourth egg drops and you plate the spinach across from the tomatoes
>All four eggs done, you take them out of the water and place two on each plate
>Grate some of the cheddar on them, sprinkle some salt on the tomatoes and...
Done
3/x
>Em takes in the smell of the food as you bring it to the table
>She pours you a cup of coffee when you sit
It's nothing fancy, but I'm told I have a talent for putting together meals from anything that's around
>Em takes a bite of spinach, nodding while she chews
>After she swallows she can speak
>”Whoever told you that was understating it. This is delicious, Anon”
Glad you like it. But you're sure you don't have any insightful criticism?
>She giggles at your jab
>”None spring to mind, Chef, but I'll be sure to let you know. Smart-aleck.”
>Biting sarcasm
>Em's got a wit as sharp your knives, it seems
>That could be fun
>A few minutes go by wordlessly
>You eat your eggs last, saving the rich yolks until you've eaten everything else
>Em takes another long sniff of the air, which still holds the smell of the meal's preparation
>She looks at you after she does, noticing your confusion
>”What? Smell is one of the most important senses for memory. A single scent can take somep0ny back YEARS in a second.”
>You HAVE noticed that certain smells take you back to big moments in your life
>She continues
>”So now whenever I smell this dish, I'll remember this moment”
That...
>Em looks content
...is one of the sappiest things I've ever heard, Em. True, I'll grant you that, but sappy
>She pouts as you pick up the plates and put them in the sink
>You circle back around and nuzzle her neck with your nose
>The grey-maned mare shudders ever so slightly and issues a snort of discontent when you pull away
I'll get this cleaned up. Get on to work. You don't want ponies wondering why you're late, do you?
4/x
>Em gets up and walks back upstairs for a few minutes before returning wearing her ruffled tie and glasses
>You hadn't realized before how good she looks without her glasses
>She walks through the kitchen and over to you
>”Okay, I'm going. Make sure to lock up when you leave and try not to let anyp0ny see you”
What are you, ashamed?
>She hits you in the arm playfully
>”Don't give me a reason to be and we'll be just fine”
>She walks out but brushes your arm with her tail, trailing it across your skin as she goes
>You wash the rest of the dishes to get rid of the goosebumps
>A song, half-remembered from another life, filters into your brain
>There might be issues that you'll have to work through
>There are probably going to be problems
>Definitely going to be some grief you catch for this
>But you really don't care about that right now
>You think about Em; her voice, her scent like well-worn books, the way her coat and mane feel pressed up against you...
>...And all your doubts dissolve for the moment
>You'll make it work
>The dishes done, you pack up everything you brought over and look out the window to make sure no ponies are out to see you leave
>You take a breath and open the door
>A few steps outside and you see that you're in the clear
>You take the bags and walk quickly home
>You find yourself humming the tune from earlier
>Still can't place the memory, though. It's just a melody.
>But somehow it fits exactly what you're feeling
>You walk with a spring in your step
>The day is fresh and you're in the best mood you've been in in a while
5/x
>Rarity is up early
>There wasn't much sleep to be had for her
>She was awake on-and-off the whole night
>Too excited, restless, nervous...
>She sees light pouring through her window and decides that it's time to give up trying to sleep
>A brush levitates over to her and she brushes her mane, still agitated
>She stumbles downstairs groggily
>Her mind is still going a mile a minute, but her body is exhausted from lack of sleep
>As she makes coffee, Rarity looks out the window in the direction of Anon's house
Today. Today I'll go and do it. He was probably just out last night...
>She looks down and takes a deep breath
>Pinkie's encouragement the night before has worn off, being replaced by fierce anxiety that mixes with Rarity's desire to make her feelings, now clear to her, known
>It's a tenuous balance. She thinks constantly about burying her feelings and giving up
>But she can't
>She won't
>She can't let her own hang-ups get in the way
>She has to do what will make her happy
>No matter how scared she is of what might happen...
>Dresses sit in various states of completion in Rarity's work area
>She's got a good amount of time before her deadline, but with the recent issues that have cropped up, she hasn't been able to concentrate on her work
>A look at the clock reveals the hour
>9:00
I suppose he'd be up and about...
>Rarity glances out the window again with a look of reservation
No, you have to do this, Rarity. Just go and get it over and done with
>She forgoes the coffee, which hasn't finished brewing, and walks out the door
>Today she'll tell him
>Today she'll make it right...
>...right?
6/x
>Pinkie Pie is baking
>It's still early; the shop's not even open yet, but Pinkie Pie is baking
>Her Pinkie Sense has been acting up since last night
>She has to be prepared
>If she can't make it better, she can at least help soften the blow
Let's see, let's see... cupcakes, cream puffs, cookies...cannoli?
>She frowns
No, no, not good enough...
>She looks at what she's made and wonders what she's missing
>An idea strikes her
Eclairs?
>A beat
>Then a flurry of pink as the party-pony zips around the kitchen, gathering ingredients
>She'll be ready
>The smell of baking fills the kitchen once again
>The clock reads 8:30
>Pinkie sits down for the first time since 6 and takes a rest
>The shop opens in a few minutes; she should wrap up for now and get everything ready for the day's business
>She happens a glance out the window, which looks out over Mane Street
>Through it she sees the tan outline of The Mayor
>The Mayor walks with a different enthusiasm than Pinkie usually sees in her
>She's got a feeling she knows why too...
>No way to be sure, but she's got a feeling
>Pinkie gets back to work cleaning the kitchen before the shop opens
>It only takes her a couple of minutes; her boundless energy serves well in this job
>By 9 she's got Sugar Cube Corner up and running, baking goods for the whole of Ponyville
>During a lull, she looks out the window again and her face falls
Anon?
>He's walking from the same direction as The Mayor was
I knew it...
>The Chef's house is on the opposite side of town
>There's only one reason Pinkie can think of why he'd be coming from that way...
>”Morning, Pinkie”
7/x
>A wave of delicious baking-saturated air hits you as you enter Sugar Cube Corner
>You might be one of the best chefs out there, but Pinkie's one of the best baking talents you've ever seen
>She comes to the counter as you walk in and greet her
Morning, Pinkie
>”Morning, Anon. You're looking cheerful! Something good happen?”
Yeah, it's uh, been a good few nights off
>You try your best to hold back on the good vibes
>Pinkie gives you The Eye for a second before you clear your throat
>”...So what can I get you?”
A danish and a coffee would be great right now
>”Apple, berry, or cheese?”
Cheese
>”Okie dokie, lokie! That'll be two bits!”
>You drop the coins on the counter and take a seat at one of the tables
>Normally you don't go out for breakfast, but you're way too energized to be sitting at home
>Like you've cast off a huge weight and are walking around unburdened for the first time in a long time
>You didn't think that could happen with somep0ny you've really only known for a week
>Of course, maybe it's just the dopamine talking
>You're sure you'll mellow out soon enough
>But that doesn't mean you can't bask in it for the time being
>Pinkie brings the danish and coffee over to your table and sees you sitting back, hands crossed behind your head
>”Must've been a REALLY good few nights off”
>Her tone of voice is different...prying
>She's suspicious
>Why is she suspicious?
>You look over to her quickly
>Her eyes have narrowed
Uh, yeah. I got a lot of work done around the house, set up a new menu...
>She keeps looking at you funny
...thanks for the danish?
>”Don't mention it, Anon. Enjoy”
8/x
>As you eat the danish you realize that your heart is racing
>Was Pinkie on to you?
>No. How could she be?
>You only just started something with Em
>There's no possible way for Pinkie to know about that
>You look over at the kitchen area
>Pinkie is standing there with a baking sheet full of cookies
>She looks back at you and, for a split second, you feel like she's reading your mind
>You finish your danish and coffee in record time and get the hell out of there
>That mare's got an unsettling side and it's making you paranoid
>You walk home with your ba-
>Where are your bags?
>You look down the street towards Sugar Cube Corner and sigh heavily
>In your rush, you must have forgotten to take them with you
>You turn around and walk the two blocks back
>The door chimes as you walk back into the shop
>”Good morning! How ca- oh, Anon. You're back?”
Yeah, I forgot my bags. Sorry about that
>”Oh, okay. You know, I was meaning to ask about that. It's so early; what are you doing with those bags?”
These? I was...taking them to work
>”To work? But I saw you coming from the opposite way”
>Is she stalling you?
Well, that's bec-
>”And it looks like these bags are mostly empty, anyway”
>Or does she know something?
Uh...
>”Which means you're probably coming FROM somewhere, not going TO somewhere”
Well, it's been nice talking to you, Pinkie. We'll have to do it again real soon. I've gotta go though; lots to do today!
>You bolt out of the shop as fast as you can before she has a chance to answer
>That was close
>WAY too close
>You walk home with your bags, nerves shot
9/x
>Rarity stands nervously at Anon's door for a full five minutes before actually knocking
>Her anxiety mounts with each passing second
>No answer
>By the time she's able to muster the nerve to knock again her hoof is shaking
Calm down, Rarity, calm down...You can do this, just stay focused
>No answer again
>She looks in the window
Strange, he's usually up by now...
>All the lights are out and everything looks the same as it did the night before
>Rarity steps back from the window, a knot forming in her stomach
>Her anxiety grows ever-stronger
If he's not home, where could he be?
>She looks back at the door
For that matter, did he even come home last night? Where was he then?
>The white mare can't help but let her nerves get the better of her now as her thoughts go back to her suspicions that she voiced to Pinkie the night before
>What if...
No, that's silly. There's no way...
>She looks up
Ohhhh....
>She runs to Sugar Cube Corner
>Pinkie will know what to do
>She knew what to do last night...
>By the time Rarity gets to Sugar Cube Corner, it's past 9:15
>She gets to the shop and rushes inside, speeding past a pair of nondescript bags left on the floor next to one of the tables
Pinkie, are you here? I need some advice...
>Pinkie comes up to the counter and, seeing Rarity's nervous face, comes around to the other side
>”Sure thing! What's up?”
>Rarity takes a deep breath
10/x
I tried to do what you told me last night and to talk to Anon about how I feel about him, but he wasn't home, so I decided to do it this morning and oh, I got my nerve up and everything, but he wasn't there, Pinkie! He must not have gone home from wherever he was last night and I can't help but think he was-
>Pinkie cuts her off, looking at the bags next to the table before responding
>”Okay, Rar, okay. Why don't you calm down and start over from the beginning? Tell ol' Pinkie Pie what's wrong”
>Rarity looks at her friend
O-okay, well-
>She realizes that she's in public. Several ponies are looking at her
Can we talk in the kitchen?
>”Sure thing!”
>Pinkie hops into the kitchen and Rarity follows
>The pink mare is optimistic; maybe this was the big disaster and she's been able to avert it?
>Rarity walks to the back end of the kitchen and finds a chair to sit in to calm herself down
>She looks up for a second when Pinkie looks to the door at the sound of the chime
>”I'll be right back”
Take your time
>The part of the kitchen where Rarity sits is more cut-off from the main cafe area
>She can only hear murmurs
>The quiet gives her time to bring herself back down
>She's being paranoid
>Letting her insecurity get the better of her
>It's crazy to even think about what she thought was going on
>She's about to get up to tell Pinkie she's alright now when she hears it
>A familiar, though anxious, voice
>Anon's voice
11/x
>”Well, it's been nice talking to you, Pinkie. We'll have to do it again real soon. I've gotta go though; lots to do today!”
>Loud, rapid footfalls followed by the door slamming accompany Rarity's sinking feeling as Pinkie comes back into the kitchen
>She sees her friend's face and knows she heard some of the conversation
>”You look like you could use some cookies”
I think I could...yes...
>Pinkie disappears for a moment before returning with a huge plate of cookies
>Rarity takes one and takes a large bite
>After rapidly chewing and swallowing it, she looks at the pink pony in front of her
I don't know what I'm doing, Pinkie...One second I'm sure I want to tell him, and the next I want to run as far away as I can so he doesn't find out...And both times I've gone to tell him how I feel, he's not been there and it feels like a sign...
>”It's not a sign of anything, Rar. It's just bad luck is all. It's only been a day. You've still got plenty of chances to -catch him-!”
>She motions in the direction of the door
>It takes a couple seconds for the white mare to realize Pinkie's meaning
>She looks over, having taken a second and third cookie from the tray
>It was unladylike, but she's so nervous she doesn't care. She shoves the cookies into her mouth and looks at Pinkie before running out the door
>She has to catch Anon
>Now's her chance!
Stay focused, darling, you can do this. You can do this. You can do thi- EEK!
>She trips over a rock and tumbles to the ground
>”Rarity? You alright?”
>That voice-
>She looks up
Anon-
12/x
>You jump a foot or two in the air when you hear the yell behind you
>As you turn, you make a note that you have to do something about your nerves when you get home
>The violet mane sticking up from the dust tells you who's fallen
Rarity? You alright?
>There's a long pause as you crouch over the white pony to help her up
>“Anon-”
>She looks up, her eyes going wide
>You put a hand out to help her up
>She jumps to her feet, looking everywhere except your eyes
>You're about to say something, but she cuts you off
>”I'm fine! I'm fine! Really!”
>The nervousness in her voice is obvious
You sure? That sounded like a hard fall-
>”Yes, yes I'm sure! I'll see you around, Anon!”
>She turns and runs off in the other direction, muttering to herself hushedly
>Looks like you were right about her. This isn't going to be fun...
>You pick your bags back up and walk home
>On top of Pinkie's suspicions, your doubt about whether you're doing the right thing, and everything else, now you've got a close friend who's clearly dealing with some feelings for you
>You're not about to press the issue. Rarity will come to you when she's ready
>You get home and fall into your chair, the energy you had felt earlier drained
Em, I really hope you're having an easier time with this than I am...
>The thought of that tan, grey-maned, bespectacled mare fills your brain and calms you down
>...to a point
>Really it just changes the kind of nervousness you feel
>Instead of a sinking weight you feel a tight knot in your stomach thinking about her
>You sit back, contentedly daydreaming as the town clock strikes 10
13/x
>Pinkie goes back to work somewhat disappointed in herself
>Telling Rarity to go get Anon like that when she knew what she knew...
What are you doing, Pinkie Pie...
>She looks out the window and sighs
Do you WANT her to get hurt?
>The door chimes and she turns back to go to the counter
Welcome to Sugar Cube Corner, what can I do for you?
>”Well, that's not very enthusiastic. Where's the bubbly Pinkie I know?”
>Rose walks up to the counter
She's having a rough day...
>”Aww, want to talk about it?”
No...I think I just need to work through it...
>She puts on a weak smile
>”Come on, all your friends go to you for advice, it must be tough when you've got your own problems”
>Pinkie looks up
>”How about you bring some cupcakes to a table and tell me what's wrong?”
I don't know, I've got customers
>”Later then. My shop's open 'till eight”
I- I'll think about it, Rose. Thanks, though. Now what can I get for you?
>”Two coffees and two bearclaws to go. Friend of mine's had some good things happen to her”
>Pinkie perks up
And you were going to sit here and talk to me?
>”She can afford to wait a little while if she has to”
>Rose leans in
>”She's giddy when she's happy. It wears thin if I don't have my coffee”
>She and Pinkie share a giggle
>”There's a real smile.”
I'll go fix those bearclaws. Back in a jiffy!
>Pinkie vanishes into the kitchen and returns a few minutes later with two huge bearclaws and a couple coffees
Here you go! Thanks for the laugh, Rose!
>”Don't mention it, Pinkie. And don't forget: my door's open if you want to talk”
14/x
>Rose walks out the door with the pastries and coffee
>She gets to Em's office just as the town clock strikes 10
Hey, I'm back! Hope you weren't waiting lo-
>Em is sitting in her chair resting her head on one hoof and absentmindedly tracing the other around her desk
Looks somep0ny found a way to pass the time?
>Em snaps out of it and glares at the florist for a second before sighing and leaning back in her chair happily
>”You were right. You were right, you were right, you were right, Rose”
Things went well, then?
>”Things went SO well. I really was worried, you know, about that unicorn Rarity, and you should have heard him when he first came in! Kept it businesslike, used my title, went straight to the kitchen, I thought for sure I'd blown it somehow!”
>Em takes a sip of coffee, now leaning far forward
I told you it would be good for you, Em! I haven't seen you this happy in ages
>”You really do give the best advice, Rose...”
>Em's tone drops slightly
>”But I can't help feeling like I've done something wrong here”
Nonsense, Em. There's nothing wrong with following your heart
>”I think it's a little more comp-”
Em, if you don't stop doubting yourself, you'll never see this to its full potential. Don't you want that?
>”I do...I SO do...”
>Rose looks straight at her friend
Then don't let this opportunity go to waste, Em. I'll never forgive you if you do
>She takes a big bite of bearclaw
>”Alright, alright, I'll do my best not to let it get to me”
>Em stares up at the ceiling again
Something tells me you're not going to have too much trouble with that
15/x
>Rarity runs home in a hurry
Stupid, stupid, stupid! What is wrong with you, Rarity?? You had a perfect chance!
>The door to Carousel Boutique slams as she enters, not bothering to flip the sign to 'open'
>She's in no state of mind to deal with customers
>Her thoughts go back to her actions a few minutes before
>She was so ready and then she tripped and saw him and-
Why can't you just tell him...
>The knot in her stomach tightens and she rushes into her work area to take her mind off it
>She contemplated going to see Pinkie again for advice, but she's bothered the pink mare enough for now
>No, she'll work on her commission
>Channel her stress into something productive...
>She paces around the room looking at the designs she's put up and the mannequins she's set around
>A sudden burst of inspiration hits and she jumps on it, eager to put her mind somewhere away from her anxiety
>It doesn't go well
>She scribbles out a few designs and gets a couple rolls of fabric down from the shelves, but by the time a half hour has passed, she's nearly pulling her hair out trying to get any work done
>Her hoof slams against the desk and she sweeps the papers from it
What am I supposed to do??
>She again thinks back to before; she saw his face and lost her nerve
Why was I so nervous...
>Rarity's done photoshoots for Photo Finish, fashion shows for Canterlot socialites...she even made all the dresses for the Royal Wedding and THIS is the most nervous she's ever felt
>She puts her face in her hooves as she sits against the wall
>It's only 10:30 and already she's spent
16/x
>The clock reads 4:30 as you start getting ready for work
>It's the first dinner service back on the regular menu and you couldn't be happier
>Aside from the scare with Pinkie and the thing with Rarity, today has been pretty great, all told
>You pick up your knives and head out the door, humming to yourself as you go
>That melody's been stuck in your head all day
>Your pace on the way to work is lively and brisk
>Whatever weight that was on you after Pinkie and Rarity this morning is long gone; replaced by a general levity
>You get to the restaurant and head inside
>”Evening, Chef”
>The cooks look happy to see you; it's been four or so days since you've last worked dinner
>You put on your Chef coat and head to the office to look at the prep list
>Everything looks in order, so you walk out to inspect the stations before service starts
>When you walk past the soup station you notice the kitchen-colt sweeping near the dishwashing station
Hey, come over here
>He looks up from sweeping, confused
Yeah, you. Hurry up!
>The broom levitates into the corner and he rushes over to you, nearly up-ending another cook on the way
>”Yes, Chef?”
I'm having you help on the soup station tonight. Do everything the saucier says and you'll be fine-
>His face lights up at being given the opportunity to work service
-as long as you don't screw anything up like yesterday
>”You uh, heard that?”
I heard that. Don't do it again. Now get this station ready for service. You've got a half-hour
>”Yes, Chef”
>Good kid. You walk out to your station and look it over before setting our your knives for service
17/x
>Dinner service starts off smoothly
>Patrons start coming in ten minutes after doors open
>Orders start coming ten minutes after that
Table Six: One zucchini blossom, one croquette, one spinach salad!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>You're really glad to be back on the regular menu
>Gives more variety for the cooks
>Plus it's the work you're actually proud of
Table Fourteen: One croquette, one avocado and melon, one asparagus!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>The first dishes come to your station
>Zucchini blossoms fried golden and stuffed with mozzarella and herbs, wild mushroom croquettes perfectly done, and a salad of raw spinach mixed with arugula and pine nuts
>This is the kind of food you're proud of
Table Six: up! Table Eleven: One zucchini blossom, one asparagus, two Ceviche!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>The smell of the kitchen wafts through your station on its way into the dining room
>It's a calming smell to you
>You find yourself getting into the groove quickly tonight
>Every so often you'll catch yourself nodding in time to the song in your head as you plate orders
Table Eleven: up!
>The Ceviche is one of your favorite appetizers
>Water chestnuts and radishes, cubed and marinated in lime juice, served on ice with mint
>You plate the order and a waiter whisks it out to the table
Table Twenty: One croquette, one asparagus, one eggplant!
>”Yes, Chef!”
Table Nine: One onion soup, one house salad, one ratatouille!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>The restaurant is starting to fill up by the time 7 o'clock rolls around
Table Six: One Fettuccine, one squash, one onion soup!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>The service is going well, your mood is good, you've found a good rhythm, and there's no stress from your social life to distract you now
>And it feels great
18/x
>At 8 the restaurant is filled
Table Twelve: One squash, one risotto, one spaghetti, one fettuccine, one stew!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>There haven't been any problems with the kitchen-colt on soups, either. You went out on a limb putting him on station, but with how you've been feeling today, you thought 'why not?'
>You're glad it's working out so far
Table Twenty Six: up! Table Thirty: One zucchini blossom, one asparagus, one avocado and melon, one eggplant!
>”Yes, Chef!”
Table Sixteen: One squash, one fettuccine, one penne, two stew!
>”Yes, Chef!”
Table Four: up!
>The Sous comes up to you during a lull
>”Good to have you back on your game, Chef”
Good to be back
>”The new colt's doing pretty well in there. He's only burned himself twice and he's finishing the soups without too much hassle”
I like to hear that
>”How'd the demo go with The Mayor? You get a menu set?”
Yeah, it went really well
>You turn to the kitchen
Table One: Three avocado, one onion soup, one spinach salad!
>”Yes, Chef!”
Got a menu all set for the fundraiser
>”Glad to hear it. How's The Mayor?”
>You nearly drop a plate of spaghetti in surprise
>The Sous laughs
>”I'm just messing with you, Chef. But you know, if you WERE up to something with The Mayor...”
>He leans up close and puts a hoof up
>”I'd give you a high-hoof for it. Mare's classy as buck”
Yeah, I suppose she is. Table Twelve: up!
>The Sous turns around and looks at the kitchen
>”Hey! Come on! Don't put that there!”
>He walks in yelling as one of the newer dishwashers puts a huge sauce-crusted pot in the washer instead of in the sinks
>You turn back to the counter and laugh to yourself
19/x
>The waves of diners start to thin out around 10
>You're glad to be almost done
>Even in a mood like today's, working dinner service is taxing
Table Twenty Three: One crème brulee, one tiramisu, one berry, one pear torte!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>It's been a good service though. No problems, everything ran smoothly
>You start to wrap up at 10:30
>Wash your knives, wipe down your station, make sure the gas is off...
>Routine
>You walk back to your office happy
>The shift notes get written up, you take off your chef coat, and walk out into the autumn air at 11 as the restaurant closes for the night
>It's a nice night for a walk
>You take it slow, walking with your hands resting in your pockets, looking up at the clear sky as you whistle the tune that's been repeating all day in your head
>It feels right
>By the time you get home it's 11:30 and you're feeling content with how today turned out
>Until you see a white pony waiting for you in front of your gate
...Rarity? What are you doing here this late?
>She looks over at you and steps forward
>”I needed to tell you something... I wanted to tell you this morning but I couldn't...”
>She shifts her front leg in front of her and looks down at the ground
>Oh boy, you know where this is going
Listen, Ra-
>You're cut off when she lunges forward and catches your mouth with her lips
End

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>The morning comes far too soon
>There's a strong wind blowing outside and this bed is so warm...
>You turn your head to look for a clock
>None to be found
>A pair of velvet-soft forelegs tighten their grip on you as you turn over
>Em stirs from her slumber and slowly opens her eyes as you turn back to her
>You feel your heart melt, seeing her look so peaceful
>Her eyes snap open when you suddenly squeeze her in your arms, but soon close again as a smile traces its way over her face
>”Good morning, Chef”
Good morning, Mayor
>She plants her lips on yours for a moment before letting go of you and working her way out of your grasp
>You follow her with your eyes as she rolls out of bed
>”Well don't just lie there staring, Anon. You might not have work in the morning, but I do, and I need my kitchen cleaned up before I can go anywhere”
Yes, ma'am
>You get yourself out of bed and watch as Em disappears into her bathroom, reemerging a minute later with a toothbrush sticking out of her mouth, pulling a turquoise cravat and collar from her dresser
>After finding and donning your pants and shirt you go to the kitchen start on the cleaning that you left last night
>As you finish the dishes you're struck with a sudden doubt
>Are you making a mistake doing this?
>Can it work out, even?
>Are you just weak for following your desire over your professionalism?
>You think for a second that you might have screwed up badly
>Then you hear Em come down the stairs
>”You know I've still got some time for breakfast...”
1/x

>That voice of hers...
>When she's got her public face on, and she's authoritative and in-charge, it's official-sounding and matriarchal
>But when she's not around her colleagues...that voice can send shivers up your spine
I think I can arrange that. What have we got to work with?
>She walks into the kitchen and opens her refrigerator as you put the last of your dishes back into the bags you brought them in
>As she rummages through it, you hear what sounds like an awful lot of plastic and tin foil crinkling
>You set out a cutting board and look over to the tan mare as she pulls out a carton of eggs, some vegetables, and some cheese
>She lays them on the counter and closes the refrigerator hastily
>You look at her for a second
>Then you turn back to the counter and look over what you've got
>Eggs, tomato, onion, cheddar, and spinach
>Alright, you can work with this
>The knife comes out and you get started
>You take a pan and lay it on the burner, pouring enough oil into it to just coat the surface
>Then you fill a pot with water and set it on a high flame until it comes to a boil
How do poached eggs with sauteed onions and spinach sound? Tomatoes on the side with some salt?
>”That sounds lovely. I'll put some coffee on”
>While you wait for the oil to heat and the water to boil, you dice the onion finely
>To avoid the eye-horror that accompanies chopped onion, you open the faucet
>Em looks at you confused
Old trick I picked up from my teacher in Canterlot. Apparently running water stops the onions burning your eyes
>She nods, intrigued, and goes back to making the coffee
2/x

>After making sure the oil is hot and the spinach is washed, you toss it and the onions into the pan, eliciting a loud hiss and a large plume of steam
Do you have any Oregano on hand?
>”I do, let me get it out”
>Em hurries to the cupboard and searches through her array of spices and herbs before coming back with a container of oregano
Thanks. This should be a nice touch
>You take a pinch of the dried leaves and drop them in with the spinach and onion
>By now the water is boiling
Two eggs, Em?
>”Two sounds good”
Alright
>You crack an egg with one hand and swirl the water with the other
>Em looks on as you drop the egg into the center of the little whirlpool and toss the shell into the trash
>You smile to yourself when you see her watching you work, enthralled
>You pour a bowl of cold water and set it down
>After two minutes, the first egg is cooked and you take it out of the pot with a spoon, dropping it into the cold water to stop the cooking process
>The second egg drops into the pot as you swirl the water again
>While it cooks, you slice the tomato and place half the pieces onto two plates that Em set out on the counter for you
>The second egg comes out and goes into the cold water
>The third egg drops and you turn off the heat under the spinach
>The fourth egg drops and you plate the spinach across from the tomatoes
>All four eggs done, you take them out of the water and place two on each plate
>Grate some of the cheddar on them, sprinkle some salt on the tomatoes and...
Done
3/x

>Em takes in the smell of the food as you bring it to the table
>She pours you a cup of coffee when you sit
It's nothing fancy, but I'm told I have a talent for putting together meals from anything that's around
>Em takes a bite of spinach, nodding while she chews
>After she swallows she can speak
>”Whoever told you that was understating it. This is delicious, Anon”
Glad you like it. But you're sure you don't have any insightful criticism?
>She giggles at your jab
>”None spring to mind, Chef, but I'll be sure to let you know. Smart-aleck.”
>Biting sarcasm
>Em's got a wit as sharp your knives, it seems
>That could be fun
>A few minutes go by wordlessly
>You eat your eggs last, saving the rich yolks until you've eaten everything else
>Em takes another long sniff of the air, which still holds the smell of the meal's preparation
>She looks at you after she does, noticing your confusion
>”What? Smell is one of the most important senses for memory. A single scent can take somep0ny back YEARS in a second.”
>You HAVE noticed that certain smells take you back to big moments in your life
>She continues
>”So now whenever I smell this dish, I'll remember this moment”
That...
>Em looks content
...is one of the sappiest things I've ever heard, Em. True, I'll grant you that, but sappy
>She pouts as you pick up the plates and put them in the sink
>You circle back around and nuzzle her neck with your nose
>The grey-maned mare shudders ever so slightly and issues a snort of discontent when you pull away
I'll get this cleaned up. Get on to work. You don't want ponies wondering why you're late, do you?
4/x

>Em gets up and walks back upstairs for a few minutes before returning wearing her ruffled tie and glasses
>You hadn't realized before how good she looks without her glasses
>She walks through the kitchen and over to you
>”Okay, I'm going. Make sure to lock up when you leave and try not to let anyp0ny see you”
What are you, ashamed?
>She hits you in the arm playfully
>”Don't give me a reason to be and we'll be just fine”
>She walks out but brushes your arm with her tail, trailing it across your skin as she goes
>You wash the rest of the dishes to get rid of the goosebumps
>A song, half-remembered from another life, filters into your brain
>There might be issues that you'll have to work through
>There are probably going to be problems
>Definitely going to be some grief you catch for this
>But you really don't care about that right now
>You think about Em; her voice, her scent like well-worn books, the way her coat and mane feel pressed up against you...
>...And all your doubts dissolve for the moment
>You'll make it work
>The dishes done, you pack up everything you brought over and look out the window to make sure no ponies are out to see you leave
>You take a breath and open the door
>A few steps outside and you see that you're in the clear
>You take the bags and walk quickly home
>You find yourself humming the tune from earlier
>Still can't place the memory, though. It's just a melody.
>But somehow it fits exactly what you're feeling
>You walk with a spring in your step
>The day is fresh and you're in the best mood you've been in in a while
5/x
>Rarity is up early
>There wasn't much sleep to be had for her
>She was awake on-and-off the whole night
>Too excited, restless, nervous...
>She sees light pouring through her window and decides that it's time to give up trying to sleep
>A brush levitates over to her and she brushes her mane, still agitated
>She stumbles downstairs groggily
>Her mind is still going a mile a minute, but her body is exhausted from lack of sleep
>As she makes coffee, Rarity looks out the window in the direction of Anon's house
Today. Today I'll go and do it. He was probably just out last night...
>She looks down and takes a deep breath
>Pinkie's encouragement the night before has worn off, being replaced by fierce anxiety that mixes with Rarity's desire to make her feelings, now clear to her, known
>It's a tenuous balance. She thinks constantly about burying her feelings and giving up
>But she can't
>She won't
>She can't let her own hang-ups get in the way
>She has to do what will make her happy
>No matter how scared she is of what might happen...
>Dresses sit in various states of completion in Rarity's work area
>She's got a good amount of time before her deadline, but with the recent issues that have cropped up, she hasn't been able to concentrate on her work
>A look at the clock reveals the hour
>9:00
I suppose he'd be up and about...
>Rarity glances out the window again with a look of reservation
No, you have to do this, Rarity. Just go and get it over and done with
>She forgoes the coffee, which hasn't finished brewing, and walks out the door
>Today she'll tell him
>Today she'll make it right...
>...right?
6/x

>Pinkie Pie is baking
>It's still early; the shop's not even open yet, but Pinkie Pie is baking
>Her Pinkie Sense has been acting up since last night
>She has to be prepared
>If she can't make it better, she can at least help soften the blow
Let's see, let's see... cupcakes, cream puffs, cookies...cannoli?
>She frowns
No, no, not good enough...
>She looks at what she's made and wonders what she's missing
>An idea strikes her
Eclairs?
>A beat
>Then a flurry of pink as the party-pony zips around the kitchen, gathering ingredients
>She'll be ready
>The smell of baking fills the kitchen once again
>The clock reads 8:30
>Pinkie sits down for the first time since 6 and takes a rest
>The shop opens in a few minutes; she should wrap up for now and get everything ready for the day's business
>She happens a glance out the window, which looks out over Mane Street
>Through it she sees the tan outline of The Mayor
>The Mayor walks with a different enthusiasm than Pinkie usually sees in her
>She's got a feeling she knows why too...
>No way to be sure, but she's got a feeling
>Pinkie gets back to work cleaning the kitchen before the shop opens
>It only takes her a couple of minutes; her boundless energy serves well in this job
>By 9 she's got Sugar Cube Corner up and running, baking goods for the whole of Ponyville
>During a lull, she looks out the window again and her face falls
Anon?
>He's walking from the same direction as The Mayor was
I knew it...
>The Chef's house is on the opposite side of town
>There's only one reason Pinkie can think of why he'd be coming from that way...
>”Morning, Pinkie”
7/x

>A wave of delicious baking-saturated air hits you as you enter Sugar Cube Corner
>You might be one of the best chefs out there, but Pinkie's one of the best baking talents you've ever seen
>She comes to the counter as you walk in and greet her
Morning, Pinkie
>”Morning, Anon. You're looking cheerful! Something good happen?”
Yeah, it's uh, been a good few nights off
>You try your best to hold back on the good vibes
>Pinkie gives you The Eye for a second before you clear your throat
>”...So what can I get you?”
A danish and a coffee would be great right now
>”Apple, berry, or cheese?”
Cheese
>”Okie dokie, lokie! That'll be two bits!”
>You drop the coins on the counter and take a seat at one of the tables
>Normally you don't go out for breakfast, but you're way too energized to be sitting at home
>Like you've cast off a huge weight and are walking around unburdened for the first time in a long time
>You didn't think that could happen with somep0ny you've really only known for a week
>Of course, maybe it's just the dopamine talking
>You're sure you'll mellow out soon enough
>But that doesn't mean you can't bask in it for the time being
>Pinkie brings the danish and coffee over to your table and sees you sitting back, hands crossed behind your head
>”Must've been a REALLY good few nights off”
>Her tone of voice is different...prying
>She's suspicious
>Why is she suspicious?
>You look over to her quickly
>Her eyes have narrowed
Uh, yeah. I got a lot of work done around the house, set up a new menu...
>She keeps looking at you funny
...thanks for the danish?
>”Don't mention it, Anon. Enjoy”
8/x

>As you eat the danish you realize that your heart is racing
>Was Pinkie on to you?
>No. How could she be?
>You only just started something with Em
>There's no possible way for Pinkie to know about that
>You look over at the kitchen area
>Pinkie is standing there with a baking sheet full of cookies
>She looks back at you and, for a split second, you feel like she's reading your mind
>You finish your danish and coffee in record time and get the hell out of there
>That mare's got an unsettling side and it's making you paranoid

>You walk home with your ba-
>Where are your bags?
>You look down the street towards Sugar Cube Corner and sigh heavily
>In your rush, you must have forgotten to take them with you
>You turn around and walk the two blocks back
>The door chimes as you walk back into the shop
>”Good morning! How ca- oh, Anon. You're back?”
Yeah, I forgot my bags. Sorry about that
>”Oh, okay. You know, I was meaning to ask about that. It's so early; what are you doing with those bags?”
These? I was...taking them to work
>”To work? But I saw you coming from the opposite way”
>Is she stalling you?
Well, that's bec-
>”And it looks like these bags are mostly empty, anyway”
>Or does she know something?
Uh...
>”Which means you're probably coming FROM somewhere, not going TO somewhere”
Well, it's been nice talking to you, Pinkie. We'll have to do it again real soon. I've gotta go though; lots to do today!
>You bolt out of the shop as fast as you can before she has a chance to answer
>That was close
>WAY too close
>You walk home with your bags, nerves shot
9/x

>Rarity stands nervously at Anon's door for a full five minutes before actually knocking
>Her anxiety mounts with each passing second
>No answer
>By the time she's able to muster the nerve to knock again her hoof is shaking
Calm down, Rarity, calm down...You can do this, just stay focused
>No answer again
>She looks in the window
Strange, he's usually up by now...
>All the lights are out and everything looks the same as it did the night before
>Rarity steps back from the window, a knot forming in her stomach
>Her anxiety grows ever-stronger
If he's not home, where could he be?
>She looks back at the door
For that matter, did he even come home last night? Where was he then?
>The white mare can't help but let her nerves get the better of her now as her thoughts go back to her suspicions that she voiced to Pinkie the night before
>What if...
No, that's silly. There's no way...
>She looks up
Ohhhh....
>She runs to Sugar Cube Corner
>Pinkie will know what to do
>She knew what to do last night...

>By the time Rarity gets to Sugar Cube Corner, it's past 9:15
>She gets to the shop and rushes inside, speeding past a pair of nondescript bags left on the floor next to one of the tables
Pinkie, are you here? I need some advice...
>Pinkie comes up to the counter and, seeing Rarity's nervous face, comes around to the other side
>”Sure thing! What's up?”
>Rarity takes a deep breath
10/x

I tried to do what you told me last night and to talk to Anon about how I feel about him, but he wasn't home, so I decided to do it this morning and oh, I got my nerve up and everything, but he wasn't there, Pinkie! He must not have gone home from wherever he was last night and I can't help but think he was-
>Pinkie cuts her off, looking at the bags next to the table before responding
>”Okay, Rar, okay. Why don't you calm down and start over from the beginning? Tell ol' Pinkie Pie what's wrong”
>Rarity looks at her friend
O-okay, well-
>She realizes that she's in public. Several ponies are looking at her
Can we talk in the kitchen?
>”Sure thing!”
>Pinkie hops into the kitchen and Rarity follows
>The pink mare is optimistic; maybe this was the big disaster and she's been able to avert it?
>Rarity walks to the back end of the kitchen and finds a chair to sit in to calm herself down
>She looks up for a second when Pinkie looks to the door at the sound of the chime
>”I'll be right back”
Take your time
>The part of the kitchen where Rarity sits is more cut-off from the main cafe area
>She can only hear murmurs
>The quiet gives her time to bring herself back down
>She's being paranoid
>Letting her insecurity get the better of her
>It's crazy to even think about what she thought was going on
>She's about to get up to tell Pinkie she's alright now when she hears it
>A familiar, though anxious, voice
>Anon's voice
11/x

>”Well, it's been nice talking to you, Pinkie. We'll have to do it again real soon. I've gotta go though; lots to do today!”
>Loud, rapid footfalls followed by the door slamming accompany Rarity's sinking feeling as Pinkie comes back into the kitchen
>She sees her friend's face and knows she heard some of the conversation
>”You look like you could use some cookies”
I think I could...yes...
>Pinkie disappears for a moment before returning with  a huge plate of cookies
>Rarity takes one and takes a large bite
>After rapidly chewing and swallowing it, she looks at the pink pony in front of her
I don't know what I'm doing, Pinkie...One second I'm sure I want to tell him, and the next I want to run as far away as I can so he doesn't find out...And both times I've gone to tell him how I feel, he's not been there and it feels like a sign...
>”It's not a sign of anything, Rar. It's just bad luck is all. It's only been a day. You've still got plenty of chances to -catch him-!”
>She motions in the direction of the door
>It takes a couple seconds for the white mare to realize Pinkie's meaning
>She looks over, having taken a second and third cookie from the tray
>It was unladylike, but she's so nervous she doesn't care. She shoves the cookies into her mouth and looks at Pinkie before running out the door
>She has to catch Anon
>Now's her chance!
Stay focused, darling, you can do this. You can do this. You can do thi- EEK!
>She trips over a rock and tumbles to the ground
>”Rarity? You alright?”
>That voice-
>She looks up
Anon-
12/x

>You jump a foot or two in the air when you hear the yell behind you
>As you turn, you make a note that you have to do something about your nerves when you get home
>The violet mane sticking up from the dust tells you who's fallen
Rarity? You alright?
>There's a long pause as you crouch over the white pony to help her up
>“Anon-”
>She looks up, her eyes going wide
>You put a hand out to help her up
>She jumps to her feet, looking everywhere except your eyes
>You're about to say something, but she cuts you off
>”I'm fine! I'm fine! Really!”
>The nervousness in her voice is obvious
You sure? That sounded like a hard fall-
>”Yes, yes I'm sure! I'll see you around, Anon!”
>She turns and runs off in the other direction, muttering to herself hushedly
>Looks like you were right about her. This isn't going to be fun...
>You pick your bags back up and walk home
>On top of Pinkie's suspicions, your doubt about whether you're doing the right thing, and everything else, now you've got a close friend who's clearly dealing with some feelings for you
>You're not about to press the issue. Rarity will come to you when she's ready
 
>You get home and fall into your chair, the energy you had felt earlier drained
Em, I really hope you're having an easier time with this than I am...
>The thought of that tan, grey-maned, bespectacled mare fills your brain and calms you down
>...to a point
>Really it just changes the kind of nervousness you feel
>Instead of a sinking weight you feel a tight knot in your stomach thinking about her
>You sit back, contentedly daydreaming as the town clock strikes 10
13/x

>Pinkie goes back to work somewhat disappointed in herself
>Telling Rarity to go get Anon like that when she knew what she knew...
What are you doing, Pinkie Pie...
>She looks out the window and sighs
Do you WANT her to get hurt?
>The door chimes and she turns back to go to the counter
Welcome to Sugar Cube Corner, what can I do for you?
>”Well, that's not very enthusiastic. Where's the bubbly Pinkie I know?”
>Rose walks up to the counter
She's having a rough day...
>”Aww, want to talk about it?”
No...I think I just need to work through it...
>She puts on a weak smile
>”Come on, all your friends go to you for advice, it must be tough when you've got your own problems”
>Pinkie looks up
>”How about you bring some cupcakes to a table and tell me what's wrong?”
I don't know, I've got customers
>”Later then. My shop's open 'till eight”
I- I'll think about it, Rose. Thanks, though. Now what can I get for you?
>”Two coffees and two bearclaws to go. Friend of mine's had some good things happen to her”
>Pinkie perks up
And you were going to sit here and talk to me?
>”She can afford to wait a little while if she has to”
>Rose leans in
>”She's giddy when she's happy. It wears thin if I don't have my coffee”
>She and Pinkie share a giggle
>”There's a real smile.”
I'll go fix those bearclaws. Back in a jiffy!
>Pinkie vanishes into the kitchen and returns a few minutes later with two huge bearclaws and a couple coffees
Here you go! Thanks for the laugh, Rose!
>”Don't mention it, Pinkie. And don't forget: my door's open if you want to talk”
14/x

>Rose walks out the door with the pastries and coffee
>She gets to Em's office just as the town clock strikes 10
Hey, I'm back! Hope you weren't waiting lo-
>Em is sitting in her chair resting her head on one hoof and absentmindedly tracing the other around her desk
Looks somep0ny found a way to pass the time?
>Em snaps out of it and glares at the florist for a second before sighing and leaning back in her chair happily
>”You were right. You were right, you were right, you were right, Rose”
Things went well, then?
>”Things went SO well. I really was worried, you know, about that unicorn Rarity, and you should have heard him when he first came in! Kept it businesslike, used my title, went straight to the kitchen, I thought for sure I'd blown it somehow!”
>Em takes a sip of coffee, now leaning far forward
I told you it would be good for you, Em! I haven't seen you this happy in ages
>”You really do give the best advice, Rose...”
>Em's tone drops slightly
>”But I can't help feeling like I've done something wrong here”
Nonsense, Em. There's nothing wrong with following your heart
>”I think it's a little more comp-”
Em, if you don't stop doubting yourself, you'll never see this to its full potential. Don't you want that?
>”I do...I SO do...”
>Rose looks straight at her friend
Then don't let this opportunity go to waste, Em. I'll never forgive you if you do
>She takes a big bite of bearclaw
>”Alright, alright, I'll do my best not to let it get to me”
>Em stares up at the ceiling again
Something tells me you're not going to have too much trouble with that
15/x

>Rarity runs home in a hurry
Stupid, stupid, stupid! What is wrong with you, Rarity?? You had a perfect chance!
>The door to Carousel Boutique slams as she enters, not bothering to flip the sign to 'open'
>She's in no state of mind to deal with customers
>Her thoughts go back to her actions a few minutes before
>She was so ready and then she tripped and saw him and-
Why can't you just tell him...
>The knot in her stomach tightens and she rushes into her work area to take her mind off it
>She contemplated going to see Pinkie again for advice, but she's bothered the pink mare enough for now
>No, she'll work on her commission
>Channel her stress into something productive...
>She paces around the room looking at the designs she's put up and the mannequins she's set around
>A sudden burst of inspiration hits and she jumps on it, eager to put her mind somewhere away from her anxiety
>It doesn't go well
>She scribbles out a few designs and gets a couple rolls of fabric down from the shelves, but by the time a half hour has passed, she's nearly pulling her hair out trying to get any work done
>Her hoof slams against the desk and she sweeps the papers from it
What am I supposed to do??
>She again thinks back to before; she saw his face and lost her nerve
Why was I so nervous...
>Rarity's done photoshoots for Photo Finish, fashion shows for Canterlot socialites...she even made all the dresses for the Royal Wedding and THIS is the most nervous she's ever felt
>She puts her face in her hooves as she sits against the wall
>It's only 10:30 and already she's spent
16/x

>The clock reads 4:30 as you start getting ready for work
>It's the first dinner service back on the regular menu and you couldn't be happier
>Aside from the scare with Pinkie and the thing with Rarity, today has been pretty great, all told
>You pick up your knives and head out the door, humming to yourself as you go
>That melody's been stuck in your head all day
>Your pace on the way to work is lively and brisk
>Whatever weight that was on you after Pinkie and Rarity this morning is long gone; replaced by a general levity
>You get to the restaurant and head inside
>”Evening, Chef”
>The cooks look happy to see you; it's been four or so days since you've last worked dinner
>You put on your Chef coat and head to the office to look at the prep list
>Everything looks in order, so you walk out to inspect the stations before service starts
>When you walk past the soup station you notice the kitchen-colt sweeping near the dishwashing station
Hey, come over here
>He looks up from sweeping, confused
Yeah, you. Hurry up!
>The broom levitates into the corner and he rushes over to you, nearly up-ending another cook on the way
>”Yes, Chef?”
I'm having you help on the soup station tonight. Do everything the saucier says and you'll be fine-
>His face lights up at being given the opportunity to work service
-as long as you don't screw anything up like yesterday
>”You uh, heard that?”
I heard that. Don't do it again. Now get this station ready for service. You've got a half-hour
>”Yes, Chef”
>Good kid. You walk out to your station and look it over before setting our your knives for service
17/x

>Dinner service starts off smoothly
>Patrons start coming in ten minutes after doors open
>Orders start coming ten minutes after that
Table Six: One zucchini blossom, one croquette, one spinach salad!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>You're really glad to be back on the regular menu
>Gives more variety for the cooks
>Plus it's the work you're actually proud of
Table Fourteen: One croquette, one avocado and melon, one asparagus!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>The first dishes come to your station
>Zucchini blossoms fried golden and stuffed with mozzarella and herbs, wild mushroom croquettes perfectly done, and a salad of raw spinach mixed with arugula and pine nuts
>This is the kind of food you're proud of
Table Six: up! Table Eleven: One zucchini blossom, one asparagus, two Ceviche!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>The smell of the kitchen wafts through your station on its way into the dining room
>It's a calming smell to you
>You find yourself getting into the groove quickly tonight
>Every so often you'll catch yourself nodding in time to the song in your head as you plate orders
Table Eleven: up!
>The Ceviche is one of your favorite appetizers
>Water chestnuts and radishes, cubed and marinated in lime juice, served on ice with mint
>You plate the order and a waiter whisks it out to the table
Table Twenty: One croquette, one asparagus, one eggplant!
>”Yes, Chef!”
Table Nine: One onion soup, one house salad, one ratatouille!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>The restaurant is starting to fill up by the time 7 o'clock rolls around
Table Six: One Fettuccine, one squash, one onion soup!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>The service is going well, your mood is good, you've found a good rhythm, and there's no stress from your social life to distract you now
>And it feels great 
18/x

>At 8 the restaurant is filled
Table Twelve: One squash, one risotto, one spaghetti, one fettuccine, one stew!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>There haven't been any problems with the kitchen-colt on soups, either. You went out on a limb putting him on station, but with how you've been feeling today, you thought 'why not?'
>You're glad it's working out so far
Table Twenty Six: up! Table Thirty: One zucchini blossom, one asparagus, one avocado and melon, one eggplant!
>”Yes, Chef!”
Table Sixteen: One squash, one fettuccine, one penne, two stew!
>”Yes, Chef!”
Table Four: up!
>The Sous comes up to you during a lull
>”Good to have you back on your game, Chef”
Good to be back
>”The new colt's doing pretty well in there. He's only burned himself twice and he's finishing the soups without too much hassle”
I like to hear that
>”How'd the demo go with The Mayor? You get a menu set?”
Yeah, it went really well
>You turn to the kitchen
Table One: Three avocado, one onion soup, one spinach salad!
>”Yes, Chef!”
Got a menu all set for the fundraiser
>”Glad to hear it. How's The Mayor?”
>You nearly drop a plate of spaghetti in surprise
>The Sous laughs
>”I'm just messing with you, Chef. But you know, if you WERE up to something with The Mayor...”
>He leans up close and puts a hoof up
>”I'd give you a high-hoof for it. Mare's classy as buck”
Yeah, I suppose she is. Table Twelve: up!
>The Sous turns around and looks at the kitchen
>”Hey! Come on! Don't put that there!”
>He walks in yelling as one of the newer dishwashers puts a huge sauce-crusted pot in the washer instead of in the sinks
>You turn back to the counter and laugh to yourself
19/x

>The waves of diners start to thin out around 10
>You're glad to be almost done
>Even in a mood like today's, working dinner service is taxing
Table Twenty Three: One crème brulee, one tiramisu, one berry, one pear torte!
>”Yes, Chef!”
>It's been a good service though. No problems, everything ran smoothly
>You start to wrap up at 10:30
>Wash your knives, wipe down your station, make sure the gas is off...
>Routine
>You walk back to your office happy
>The shift notes get written up, you take off your chef coat, and walk out into the autumn air at 11 as the restaurant closes for the night
>It's a nice night for a walk
>You take it slow, walking with your hands resting in your pockets, looking up at the clear sky as you whistle the tune that's been repeating all day in your head
>It feels right

>By the time you get home it's 11:30 and you're feeling content with how today turned out
>Until you see a white pony waiting for you in front of your gate
...Rarity? What are you doing here this late?
>She looks over at you and steps forward
>”I needed to tell you something... I wanted to tell you this morning but I couldn't...”
>She shifts her front leg in front of her and looks down at the ground
>Oh boy, you know where this is going
Listen, Ra-
>You're cut off when she lunges forward and catches your mouth with her lips
End

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