Human Parenting

Stallions are less than stellar fathers. Many of them prefer to let a mare do all the work in raising foals, and that's assuming they stick around. Anon makes an off-hand comment on how human fathers are the opposite, complete with some stories of his own old man. It's even compounded with how the children in town adore him. Word gets out, and less than a week later every mare with a ticking biological clock is trying to get into his pants.

 

>Day Raise your own damn kids in Equestria.

>"So, Anon, I know you're a male and all, but what can you tell me about how human females raise their young?" Twilight asks, quill and parchment at the ready.

>Giving Twilight your best "You serious" look, you shake your head slowly.

"I'm not sure how it works here, but with humans, both parents almost always play a major role in raising their kids."

"My father, for one, even though he was the proverbial breadwinner, always took time to play with me after work, and we'd go out fishing and things like that."

"According to my family videos, he was the one who taught me to walk and ride my bike."

"I guess what I'm saying is, humans have a strong family unit, with everyone helping with everything."

>Scribbling like a maniac, Twilight is focused intently on copying down everything you said.

"What about ponies? What can you tell me about how they raise their young?"

>"Oh, that's easy," Twilight exclaims, "Mares handle everything, because that's their role."

"So the stallion just leaves all the work to the females, and does whatever they do? That's hardly fair."

>Twilight stops, looking up at you confused, before going into her deep thinking mode.

>Her quill goes to paper, and the rest of the world fades for her.

"Hey, you in there, Twi?" you ask, snapping your fingers in front of her.

>The scratching of quill on paper is your only response, so with a sigh and a shrug, you get up and head out to continue on with your day.

>Reaching Sugarcube corner, you realize you never got your payment from Twilight.

"Fuck..."

>"Hello Anonymous, what's wrong?" you hear from beside you, and you turn to see the slightly portly, but ever sweet Mrs. Cake.

"Forgot to get my payment from Twilight. We were doing some info sharing about child raising differences."

>"Come inside, I'll make it on the house today, if you're willing to share a few human child raising tips."

>A smile forms, and you give the mare a quick, friendly hug, before opening the door for her.

"Thanks Mrs. Cake, I'd be glad to."

>While you take a seat, she grabs a few muffins and a slice of pie, bringing them over and setting them down.

>Taking a bite of the pie, you let the warm, cherry filling fill your senses before turning to the blue mare.

"One of the best tips I can give you is doing parent days every couple weeks. Let one parent do all the work for a day and let the other relax."

"Keeps stress to a minimum, and gives both parents the ability to have great bonding moments."

>"So the Stallion, er, man, takes care of the foals for a day? How unusual."

"Humans are a little different when taking care of kids. Both parents raise them, rather than the way you ponies do it."

>Head resting on her hooves, she looks at you intently as you take another bite of pie.

>"It must be wonderful, giving the human females freedom to do other things instead of raising the foals all the time."

"To be honest, it's fun, spending time with kids, playing and teaching them. I had a young brother before I came here, and I spent almost as much time as mom and dad caring for him."

>Staring up at the ceiling, you let out a slow sigh.

"I miss them... I wonder how they're doing."

>A hoof pats your shoulder, and you look down to see Mrs. Cake's soft smile.

>"I'm sure they're fine, and they miss you a lot."

>Her hooves wrap around your shoulders in a quick hug, and you give her a pat on the head.

"Thanks, I'll be sure to pay for these later."

>With a full stomach, you head off to your afternoon job working at the local bar.

>Hands and a willingness to work for minimum wage make you the perfect employee, rather than them having to hire a high cost unicorn.

>It's not glamorous, but it pays the bills.

 

~~~

 

>For the past week, Twilight has practically locked herself in her treebrary, meaning your payment was delayed, and it was bread and apples for breakfast, lunch and dinner till you got payed by your job.

>Today, you finally managed to get hold of her out in the market, handing out little panphlet/book things.

"Twilight, there you are. I never got my pay from last week, and I haven't been able to contact you."

>She focus on you, and smiles a mile wide, "Anon! Sorry, I was busy. I had to make these, but here, these are your bits from then."

>A bag floats over held in a purple glow, and with a quick glance inside, you tuck it away.

"Thanks, now I can actualy eat something."

>"Oh..." she says, her ears dropping, "I'm sorry, I got so caught up..."

"Ah I'm just messing with you," you say, messing her mane, "I still had food, just not much for variety."

>Her cheeks puff up in indignation, and you stick out your tongue, before walking away.

"See ya, Twi."

>Passing by the school, a bunch of the colts and fillies run over, calling out to you.

>Stopping at the fence, you pass out a couple candies you carry, and talk with the rest.

>The recess bell is rung, and the students wave as they head inside, and you hear someone trot up behind you.

>"They really like you, don't they," you hear a quiet, but friendly voice say.

>Turning, you see Roseluck, the local florist standing there.

"Yeah, I've always done well with kids."

>"I've always wanted some, but it's so hard to find a nice, caring stallion to breed with."

>Finding a bench, you sit down and motion her to do so as well.

"You make it sound so primal. You should always look for love for a lifetime."

>Rosy red colour fills her cheeks, nearing the same shade as her mane, and she leans over against you.

"You're so romantic... Stallions are never like this except in books."

>She starts tracing a hoof along your thigh while taking sniffs of your chest, and you start getting a little weirded out.

"Uh, Rose, what are you doing?"

>"Hmn... Oh, sorry, I got a little distracted. Anyways, would you maybe..."

>She suddenly looks at the ground, the reddy pink filling her cheeks again, "maybe... go on a date with me?"

>Shifting away a bit, you look at her and she suddenly looks a little downtrodden, "Too sudden?"

"Sorta. I guess we can try hanging out some time though. It's definetally too early for a date."

>"Okay. How about we go to the park with my sisters on Saturday? We could play some games or stuff."

"Sounds good, I have the morning free that day."

>Hopping off the bench, with a barely contained skip in her step, Rose runs off, and you can see a bunch of mares watch her go.

>As you get set to continue on your way, the gossip engine of ponyville trots up to you.

>"So, Darling, it looks like you just made a mare very happy," Rarity says, giving you a knowing wink.

"We are hanging out on saturday, that's it."

>Her brow scrunches up as she scrutinizes you, "are you sure? I could have sworn you agreed to father foals with her."

>If you were drinking, Rarity would be covered in it, as you do a dry spit take, before covering your mouth.

"Wow... Why? She's a nice mare, but I'm not looking to be a father right now, and I don't even think we are compatable biologically."

>"So the info Twilight got is false?"

"Info..." you start, before you remember those little pamphlets Twilight was handing out, "Don't tell me..."

>"These," Rarity says, holding up one of the self same pamphlets for you, "Twilight has been handing them out, saying they are human information booklets."

>Skimming through one, it's basically a romanticized version of what you told her last week.

"Yeah, it's true, but..."

>"It makes you beyond desirable, as so many mares want a stallion who will help raise their foals."

>Looking around, you are getting a lot of bedroom looks from a lot of mares.

"God damn it, Twilight."

 

 

~***~

 

 

>Sunlight baking your back, you stand tense, muscles bound and ready to spring at a moments notice.

>Across the field from you, your opponents, each wearing a grim, determined glare.

>In an instant, they attack, their weapon flying at you with incredible speed and unwavering accuracy.

>Releasing your muscles, you spring off, diving to the side to catch the frizbee.

>Tossing it back, Daisy catches it, before passing it to Roseluck.

>"Hey, pass it here!" you hear another pony call, and you turn to see Pinkie bouncing up and down.

>The others shrug, and pinkie joins the circle, the disk flying from pony to pony to person.

>Things start to get weird quickly, as more and more mares join the circle.

>Motioning Rose off to the side, she circles around to behind you.

"What's going on here?"

>"I dunno? Pinkie is just Pinkie, but I think they all want to get close to you."

"Kinda like you?"

>"No... well, yes, but I'm not going to push myself at you."

"Wanna get out of here?"

>She nods, and you throw out the disk as it once again reaches you.

>A cluster of mares go for it, and you take the moment to kneel down to Rose.

"Grab your sisters, meet me at the Stumblin' Stallion around five, if you want to hang out a bit more."

>"Alright, see you there," she says with an uncertain smile before running off to grab her sisters.

>Trying to edge away, the disc comes to you again, and you hurl it out far.

"Whoever catches that gets a special surprise!" you call out, and the mares go swarming after it.

>Sprinting away from the park, you head for home.

>Behind you, a call of "I GOT IT!" carries out, before the sound of arguing starts.

>Inside your house, you close the door, the curtains and make sure the lights are off.

>These pony designed houses leave very few blinds spots through windows, but you manage to squeeze into one next to your bookshelf.

>Curtains pull back as unicorns look in windows, trying to find you, more than likely looking to claim their special surprise.

>Minutes tick by in agonizing slowness, and you spend the time counting the boards on your floor and books on your shelf.

>Halfway through the books, the doorknob turns, and you curse yourself for forgetting to lock it.

>"Anon? Are you home?" you hear Sweetie Belle call out, her voice squeaking as she asks.

"Yeah, I'm here," you reply, rising to standing, "What's up Sweetie?"

>"I was wondering if you would be a chaper... chapa, adult watcher for our field trip next wednesday? My big sister is busy, and nobody else has said yes yet."

"Sure, when should I be at the school?"

>"Yay! This is going to be so fun! You should ask Miss Cheerilee when you have to be there and let her know you will come."

"Alright. I'll stop by later, I have a few things to do here first."

>After another excited squeal, Sweetie runs off, probably to go tell her friends.

>They were troublemakers, but the Cutie Mark Crusaders always meant well.

>Smiling, you remember some of the times you have kept them out of trouble.

>After that incident with the barrel of butter, Big Mac, and Fluttershy's chickens, they became really good friends with you.

>Puttering around your house quietly, you make sure there are no suspicious looking mares around your house.

>Everything is all clear, and after locking the door, you head for Ponyville Elementary.

>Despite it being the weekend, you can guess Cheerilee is here, since her house is just behind the school.

>The schoolhouse is empty as you press your face to one of the windows and peer inside.

>Moving around to the back, you rap your knuckles against the wooden door to Cheerilee's house.

"Hello? Are you home, Cheerilee?"

>Waiting a minute, you knock again, but don't get a response.

>Her lights are off, so you turn to leave, when you see her walk around the corner of the Schoolhouse.

>"Oh, Anonymous, what brings you here?" she asks with a bit of a start.

"Sweetie Belle told me you were looking for chaperones for a field trip, and I came to offer myself."

>Pink appears over her cerise cheeks, and you smile and shake your head.

"Sorry, that came out wrong. I'm willing to be a chaperone for the trip, if you need one."

>"I'd be glad to have you. We're going for an overnight trip in the Whitetail woods, and having Ponyville's very own human with us will certainly set most parents at ease."

>"The kids will love having you along as well."

"Alright. I'll be here Wednesday then."

>Waving goodbye, you Walk back onto the main street, where a certain blue Pegasus with a Rainbow Mane is standing, looking at you.

>"Hey Anon, so, I heard there was a special reward for the pony who caught this, right?" she asks, pulling the frizbee from under a wing.

>Sighing, you nod and take the disc back.

>"So, what did I win?" she asks, her wings flaring out a bit in excitement.

"How's a few free drinks sound? I kinda planned on just using that contest to get away."

>"Oh..." she says, her wings drooping a bit, "Well, a few free drinks sound pretty good. I'll stop by this next friday, probably."

"See you then," you reply, before waving and heading towards home.

>A few mares along the way try to start conversations, but you politely decline, claiming you had something important to attend to.

>Stopping at your door, you reach for the knob, and it turns in your hand.

>Caution sets in, and you quietly open the door, peering inside.

>The lights are all still off, except for a glow coming from the kitchen.

>Edging around the doorway, you see Bon Bon of all ponies standing there, talking to herself.

>"Hmn... he seems to like eggs and cheese, and there is a lot of bread around too..."

>Your house decides to betray you, the floor under your feet letting out a loud squeak, drawing her attention.

>Like a deer caught in a headlight, she freezes, before saying, "Thisisn'twhatitlookslike!" and running past you and out the door.

>Nothing is missing from your shelves or fridge, begging the question why she was here.

>Whipping together a quick sandwich, you chow down before getting ready for work.

>With your "uniform" on, you set out for the Stumblin' Stallion, your place of employment.

>The bar, if you could call it that, is in the process of being switched over from resturant mode in the day, to Bar mode at night.

>Helping pull out the bar stools and tables, the clock hits five, and you see the flower sisters come in.

"Roseluck, Daisy, Lily, I have a table over here for you," you call out to them, and they weave their way over.

>"This is where you work, Anon?" Rose asks, sitting down.

"Yeah, the hours mean my day starts a little later, but the pay is plenty for what I need and the tips are a nice bonus."

>"But then how would you raise a foal?" Daisy asks, before her sisters elbow her in the sides, "sorry, a little innapropriate."

"More than a little, yeah, but I'd probably quit my work if my wife had a better job so I can do more to take care of the kid."

>The three mares squee, resting their heads on their hooves.

>"How romantic, a stallion doing all that for his mare and foal..." Lily sighs, a dreamy smile on her face.

>Rose and Daisy both elbow her this time, and she smiles sheepishly.

>"Sorry Anon, the rumors just make it hard to avoid the topics."

"I know all too well. Twilight shouldn't have spread all that stuff everywhere, even though it's true."

>"You can look at it this way, Anon, you pretty much have free pick of mares if you ever want to find one."

>This time Rose gets the elbows, and you can't help but crack a smile.

"You three are pretty funny. You get along so well too."

>"We've been as close as three peas in a pod since we were young," Rose says and they hold hooves.

>"You could almost say..." Daisy starts.

>"... We're a package deal," Lily finishes, and the three hug close.

>The three start laughing, and you join in.

"Good to know. I'll remember that if I'm looking for an adventuring party."

>"Or decide to start a herd," Rose says, before covering her mouth and saying, "sorry, it just slipped out."

"Nothing to worry about," you say, going to stand, "Before I have to start work, can I get you anything?"

>They shake their heads, and you sit again.

>Lily lets out a sigh, her head drooping a bit, "It's too bad about what happened at the park, It's not often we get out to play,"

>"Yeah," Daisy adds, "we'll have to do it again, that is, if you want to, Anonymous?"

"Sure, I've got no problems hanging out here and there," you reply with a smile.

>Your watch beeps, and you rise from your seat.

"Sorry, but my shift is starting. I'll let you know when I can hang out again. See you later."

>"Bye Anon," they chorus, waving goodby before rising to leave.

>Work starts out busy, as it always does, and just gets worse.

>More mares show up, trying to get close even though you are all business.

>The tips are nice though, and your boss loves the extra customers.

>By the time you get home, you are thoroughly worn out, but as you lay in bed, you can't help but feel a little excitement at the upcoming camping trip.

 

~~~

 

>Wednesday arrives quickly, and with your bag packed, you set out for the schoolhouse.

>The children already know you are chaperoning, and as you approach, a couple run over.

"Good morning you guys, are you all ready for a fun overnight camping trip?"

>You get a whole bunch of nods, and you can see some parents talking with Cheerilee or their kids at the school.

>"Ah, here he is now, Anon, over here!" Cheerilee calls, motioning you over.

>Like moses with the red sea, you part the colts and fillies around you and walk up to her.

"Is everything ready to go?" you ask, giving the parent's a somewhat questioning look.

>"Yes, Mr. Filthy Rich just wanted to make sure the chaperones were suitable for the trip."

>Turning to the brown, well groomed stallion you give a curt bow.

"My name is Anonymous, and I'll be doing everything in my power to make sure each and every child comes back from this trip happy and unharmed."

>"You had better," he replies with a huff, looking you up and down.

>"Don't worry Mr. Rich, Anon here is great with children and stronger than most stallions. I'm sure he can protect us if anything should happen."

>He moves on, and several other parents, all mares talk with you and Cheerilee.

>Once all the parents are ready to let their kids go, you grab your bag again, and Cheerilee gathers the class.

>"Does anyp0ny have to go to the bathroom before we go?"

>"Nope!" the class choruses, and Cheerilee lines them up.

>With you at the lead, the class starts through town out towards the Whitetail woods.

>"Nobody wander, the woods may not be super dangerous, but it's easy to get lost."

>Muted whispers and gasps come from the group as you first walk into the trees.

>Cheerilee points out plant species as you walk, while you make a path through the denser foliage.

>Everything is running smoothly, at least, so far as it seems.

 

~~~

 

>"Come on, Diamond, you know we're not supposed to leave the group," Silver Spoon says, edging closer to you.

"Don't worry, Silver, I just have to go and I can't ask Anon or Cheerilee to take me out."

>"Still... did we have to go so far away?"

"It's fine," you say, squatting near a bush, "now look away, and then we can go back."

>Sweet, liquid relief flows from your no-no parts, and you let out a sigh.

"That feels better. Come on, Silver, let's go."

>Standing and looking around, you see no sign of your trail.

>"Which way is back?"

>Opening your mouth, close it again almost immediately as the realization comes to you.

>You're lost.

"Cheerilee? Mister Anon?" you call out, panic starting to set in.

>"Anon!? Cheerilee?" Silver calls out, joining her voice with yours.

>Where the woods were bright and friendly when you entered are now dark and forboding.

>"Diamond, I'm scared..." Silver says, backing into your side.

"It'll... I'm sure we'll be fine. One of them will notice we're missing and come after us, right?"

"Right?"

>Shadows creep closer, and you shrink back with Silver Spoon.

 

~~~

 

>"Alright everyp0ny, we're here! Set your stuff down and line up for a head count."

>Sitting to the side, you relax and look around the clearing, when Cherilee lets out a gasp.

>"We're two short! Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon are missing!"

>Rushing around, she looks in all the bushes nearby, panicing and calling for the two fillys.

>Grabbing her by the shoulders, you turn her to face you and hold her there.

"Calm down. Stay here and call for them while setting up camp. I'll backtrack and look for them, since I can track them better."

>She nods and starts commanding the foals, while you turn to the worn trail you took here.

>Shadows start to lengthen as you make your way down the trail, and while your progress is slow, you make sure to thoroughly examine every inch of the trail.

"Silver Spoon? Diamond Tiara? Can you hear me?" you yell out here and there.

>Reds and oranges fill the sky as the sun sets and as you find what you are looking for.

>Or at least, their hoofprints.

>They turn abruptly off the path, going straight into the bushes.

"Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, if you can hear me, stay where you are, I'm coming to find you."

>You don't hear anything back except the howl of a wolf in the distance.

>Fear wraps around your heart like a shadow constrictor, and you hasten your movement.

>Not far from the track, you find a patch where the hoofprints wander a while, before they move off towards a large tree.

"Girls, if I'm close, please respond!"

>Your voice echos through the trees, distorting and bouncing irregularly as you follow the faint tracks.

>The tracks falter before dissapearing at the tree, and you slowly look around.

>After a moments search, you find two huddling forms in a crevise in the base of the tree.

"Diamond, Silver, are you alright?" you ask, kneeling down.

>"Daddy's gonna save me, Daddy's gonna save me..." the quivering pink filly repeats, while the other turns to look at you.

>"Mister Anon! You came!" Silver Spoon says, rushing from the crack and into your waiting arms.

"Of course I did. I promised everyone I'd keep you all safe, and I always keep my promises."

>"Come on Diamond Tiara, we're safe now!" Silver says to her friend, but the other keeps shaking in the crack.

>Reaching out, you slowly and gently lay a hand on her head.

"It's alright, little princess, you're safe now. Your daddy sent me, Knight Anonymous to save you."

>Tear filled eyes look up at you, begging for comfort as she says, "Is that true?"

"Of course it is. I made a solemn vow to protect all foals and fillys in danger, especially princesses, and now I'm here to protect you."

>A small smile forms, and she squeezes out of the crack and into your arms.

>Rising with the girls, you hold them close as the sun vanishes behind the horizon, darkness rolling in.

>"How are we gonna get back, it's too dark to see," Silver Spoon asks, looking around.

"Not for me. I can still see everything I need to see to make our way back."

>While not exactly true, it isn't a lie either, since you can see enough of the path you cut through the underbrush to make your way back.

>The main trail is easier to follow, and soon you see the campfire's light in the distance.

"Almost there, girls. Soon, you'll be nice and warm in your tent with a nice meal in your bellys."

>They don't respond, and you look down to see them curled up in your arms, dozed off.

>The moment you step in the edge of the firelight, Cheerilee runs over, and you lift a finger to silence her.

"Both of them are fine," you whisper as she falls in beside you, "They're just tired after the excitement of the day."

>With the two stowed carefully in their tent and wrapped up in their bedding, you step outside where Cheerilee suddenly hugs you.

>"Thank you so much, Anon, I have no idea what I would have done if anything happened to them."

>Patting her back, you let her give you the thankful, purely friendly hug.

"I don't know what I would have done either. I'm just glad I found them so easily."

>She ends the hug and takes a seat on a stone near the fire, and you do the same.

>"Everyp0ny's been good while you were gone, but I came across a problem."

"What is it?"

>"The tents. We only have one for the chaperones and teachers."

>Cheerilee seems honestly embarassed and nervous, and you rest a hand on her shoulder.

"You can use the tent. A night outside won't kill me."

>Her mane knocks your hand off her shoulder as she shakes her head no, "I could never ask you to sleep outside while the rest of us are in tents, even if we do have to share."

>"It's not like we are sleeping in the same sleeping bags."

>She gives a light, cheerful laugh, and you laugh with her.

"Well, I can deal with that," you say, before it is drowned out by your stomach growling.

>"Hungry? I've got a little dinner left over, though I'm not exactly sure what you can eat."

"I can eat most stuff you guys do, just not hay and flowers, mainly."

>"Hhat'sh goof," she says, her voice muffled by a pot handle as she picks it up, "Soop."

>Ladeling out a dish, you slowly sip at it, letting the warm, delicious broth fill your mouth.

"This is good, did you make it yourself?"

>"Yeah. Cooking has always been a strong suit. My mom taught me it so I could be a good wife eventually."

"It's a good thing to learn even if you don't plan on getting married."

>While you eat, you and her swap stories, and soon, it's time for sleep.

>The leftover food gets buried, and Cheerilee climbs into her sleeping bag first while you handle natures call.

>Slipping into your own bag, you drift off to the calming, quiet sounds coming from her bag.

 

~~~

 

>Up at the crack of dawn, you see Cheerilee half out of her sleeping bag, one of her rear hooves twitching occasionally.

>Quietly slipping from the tent, you find Diamond Tiara sitting in front of your tent, looking at her hooves.

"What's wrong, Diamond? Can I help you?"

>She lets out a quiet squeak and shifts back, looking up at you.

>"Oh, good morning Anonymous, I just wanted..." she suddenly becomes quiet, a redish hue climbing over her cheeks.

>Giving her time, she swallows, before continuing, "I wanted to say thanks for yesterday."

>Rearing back, she holds up her hooves for a hug, and you kneel down and oblige her.

>She ends it quick, but comes off with a smile, and she says, "Your hugs are almost as good as dad's. Also, can you keep yesterday a secret? I don't want everypony finding out."

"Your secret's safe with me," you say, smiling back, and with a skip in her step, she trots back to her tent.

>Turning around, you see Cheerilee rubbing sleep from her eyes, but still bearing a warm smile.

>"I'm glad you could get along with her, she's usually fairly troublesome," she says with a yawn, before heading for the supplies, "I'll start making breakfast."

>Scooping the pot out of her mouth, you grab the things for breakfast.

"I'll handle this, you can get everyone up and ready."

>Cinnamon, sugar and oats all mix into a good smelling oatmeal, and the foals and fillys start gathering around.

"Alright everyone, line up nicely, and I can start scooping you guys bowls. And no pushing, there is plenty to go around."

>Soon, you have a line of children, and you scoop them each a nice, warm bowl of oatmeal, and each one thanks you before going off to eat.

>Cheerilee is the last in line, and after serving her and getting a bowl for yourself, you sit down with everyone.

>"Mmmm this is just right," Cheerilee says with a smile after her first bite, and a bunch of the kids vocalize their agreements.

>A warm meal in everyones stomach, and you all start packing up the tents.

"Hurry up everyone, we have a special stop before we can head back, and I want us to have as much time as possible there."

>You get a questioning glance from Cheerilee which you reply with only a wink.

>With your help, the tents go down quickly and everyone is packed up.

>Your pony train tail forms up behind you, and you lead them off in a direction perpendicular to the path to town.

>Soon, you reach your destination, another clearing, but this one filled to the brim with flowers.

>The kids rush past you, diving into the colorful field, and Cheerilee walks up to you.

>"How did you know this was out here?" she asks, watching the kids play.

"I found it before, when I first arrived here. I come out every once in a while, just to relax."

>"It's beautiful," she says with a sigh, resting her head against your thigh.

"They are, both the flowers and the kids."

>"I... I kind of wish I had my own child to bring here, to play with them in the flowers till night, then snuggle up with them and their father under the stars, keeping eachother warm all night."

"That's a wonderful dream, and I do hope it happens for you."

>"Thank's Anon," she says, shifting a bit and looking up, "now, how about we join them?"

"I'd like nothing more."

 

End chapter 1

 

 

>They say time travels slow in small towns, though you find yourself inclined to disagree.

>Days turn into weeks after the field trip, and little changes, your daily schedule still the same.

>Shopping, relaxing, visiting the kids at the school, and going to work, all the while avoiding awkward advances from mares around town.

>Some weekends you hang around with Rose and her sisters, the four of you becoming good friends.

>Today is another such weekday, the warm sun on your back, the laughter of colts and fillies in the air along with a faint fragrance of flowers.

>"Good afternoon, Anonymous," Cheerilee says, trotting over to you, "It's good to see you around here so often."

"What can I say, visiting the foals is one of my simple joys in life."

>Taking a seat next to you, she nods, "Mine as well. Did I ever tell you about my cutie mark?"

"No, I can't say you have," you reply, sparing a glance to her flank, where three flowers with smiley face lie.

>"I got it sort of late, compared to other ponies, but it was one of the happiest days of my life."

>"It was during a fair, I came across a young filly who was crying."

>"Turns out she lost her balloon, and was sad because of that. I decided to help her, and we spent the day playing and going on rides."

>"As the day ended, I said goodbye to her, and she had a smile as wide as one of Pinkie's."

>"My mark appeared, and I realized I wanted to spend my life making children happy."

"So you became a teacher, right?"

>A smile like the ones on her flank forms, and she nods, "and I'm glad I did."

>Two colts run over, asking for the two of you to come play with them, and with scarcely a glance at eachother, you both rise and follow them.

>Time flies by as you and Cheerilee play, and yet it feels like a long time before the recess bell rings.

>The students start fo file inside, and Cheerilee turns to you.

>"This was nice. Do you think, maybe... we could do it again some time?"

"Sure. I'd love to."

>Applebloom pokes her head out of the classroom door, and calls out, "Miss Cheerilee! Hurry up!"

>"Sorry, work calls. Maybe I should come by your house later and we can talk."

"Alright, just don't go advertising it. I don't want others to get the wrong ideas."

>A bob of her head, and she rushes inside the school, while you turn to head for home.

>Most of the more agressive mares have toned down after you have shown no interest, but you still have to avoid all kinds of more subtle advances.

>Stuff like "free drinks" containing strange, heart shaped bubbling chemicals, to flowers loaded with aphrodesiacs or other "subtle" tactics.

>Thankfully these ponys are so innocent, they wouldn't do anything to you non-consentually, just do things to try and make you consent.

>You've already lost count of how many mares have "accidentally" flashed you in the past few weeks.

>Strange, but still kind of human looking.

>Twilight insisted on a VERY awkward and way too personal biology lesson after you mentioned it to her.

>At least she did the demonstrations personally, so it wasn't too weird, except when...

>Shaking your head to get rid of the thought, you snag a few things for dinner before going home and prepping for work.

 

~~~

 

>Saturday rolls around, and as you are about to sit down for lunch, there is a knocking at the door.

>Sighing, you set your ham sandwich aside, you go and open the offending portal.

>Beyond it, you find a certain cerise mare with a saddlebag on her back.

"Good afternoon, Cheerilee, what brings you here?"

>"You were never home during the evenings during the week, so I thought I'd come today."

>Waving her inside, you head for the kitchen.

"I was just going to have lunch, if you want to join me."

>"I'd be glad to. I brought my own, becuase I have been out all day so far anyways."

>Pulling out a chair for her, she giggles and covers her mouth with a hoof before hopping up.

>"Are you always this flirty with mares who come over?" she asks, pulling a paper bag from her saddlebag.

"Not sure what you mean, I just pulled out your chair. It's a polite thing guys do for girls."

>"My my, I'd love to be a human girl if they are treated this nicely all the time."

"Not all girls, just nice ones."

>A bit of a blush forms on her cheeks, but she tries to hide it behind her salad as she starts to eat.

>Sitting across from her, you bite into your sandwich.

>Meat isn't easy or cheap to get, but it's always good quality.

"So, how long have you been a teacher?" you ask between bites, looking over at her.

>Swallowing the plant matter in her mouth, she replies, "Not that long, actually. I finished my teaching course five years ago, and got the job here about a year after that."

>"How about you? What did you do before you came here?"

"Part time work, mostly. I was a cashier at one job, and did warehouse work at the second. In my free time, I spent a lot of time with family and friends."

"Now, I work at a bar, doing waitering, mostly."

>She stows her empty containers in her bag again and you set your plate to be washed.

>Making her way to the door, you stop her, and motion to the living room.

"Please, feel free to stay a while. I don't have work today, so we can talk for a while."

>Smiling, she nods and sets her bag beside the couch before hopping on.

>"So, what do you want to do?"

"Ever played go fish?" you ask, pulling out a deck of cards.

>"Not since I was a little filly," she says, "but I'd love to play."

>Your game lasts a while, and after that, you and her play other games.

>You both lose track of time, and it's soon dark out.

>"Oh my, look at the time. I must be going, but it was a lot of fun."

>Walking her to the door, you wave goodbye.

"I hade fun, and take care, but please make sure you don't let anyone know, it might be misinterpreted."

>"No worries, it's just between us."

>As she walks away and you head back inside, you miss the two cerulean eyes shining from the bushes.

 

~~~

 

>Walking to work, you come across a few mixed stares from mares, and one even walks up to you.

>"So, is it true?"

"Is what true?"

>"Ugh, so like a stallion not to aknowledge it," she says, rolling her eyes, "Is it true you and Cheerilee rutted?"

"What!? We never did that. Where did you hear that?"

>"It's been spreading around town. We're not mad, but if she get's pregnant, we, that is, us mares, hope you care for the child."

>With that, she walks off, leaving you confused and wondering who started the rumor.

>At work, you get more mares than usual, and a lot of them try to buy you drinks, probably hoping to "score" on the rumor.

>It gets a little annoying, and thankfully your boss understands and lets you go early.

>Heading home, you get an idea as to where the rumor started, and divert to their house.

>Knocking on her door, you wait till the unicorn opens it.

"So, I assume you are the reason everyone thinks Cheerilee and I had sex?" you ask, glaring at her.

>"Of course not. I'd never lie like that," she replies, shaking her head.

"Well, if it wasn't you, then who would it be?"

>"Did you consider Rarity?" Twilight asks, "she's usually the one behind stuff like this. Well, her or the flower sisters overreacting."

>Facepalming, you appologize before heading for the Carousel Boutique.

>The last rays of the sun pass below the horizon, night setting in fully as you reach the extravagant and somewhat silly looking building.

>Knuckles rap on wood, and you wait for the purple maned unicorn to come.

>After a moment, she arrives and opens the door, and gives you a smile.

>"Anonymous, what brings you here? I figured you would be "busy" with your marefriend," she says with a wink.

"So it WAS you who started that stupid, false rumor," you reply with a disproving stare.

>"False! I never start false rumors, I just share facts, and I know for a fact that Cheerilee was at your house till well after dark on saturday, and that she arrived there around noon."

"Yeah, we were just discussing how to handle children and playing a few games, that's all."

>Rarity gulps, seeing the truth behind your statement, and her ears go flat.

>"Ehehehe, sorry, I guess I just assumed... I mean, when a stallion has a mare over that long, it's usually to..."

"Well, now you know the truth, so can you stop this stupid rumor. I enjoy talking with Cheerilee, and we have a lot in common and I don't want her to feel wierd because of some lie."

>Her head nods quickly, her curls bouncing like a kid on a trampoline as she says, "yes, I'll fix it as soon as I can, and I'm dreadfully sorry about all this. I hope you don't take it personally."

"As long as you fix it, I'll be fine. Now, If you'll excuse me, I have a book waiting for me at home and a warm bed to sleep in."

>Again, she nods, and you close the door as you leave, heading for home.

>Not many ponies are out around now, a peaceful silence filling the air.

>A light breeze rustles your shirt, bringing with it the faint scent of flowers.

>Overhead, the moon and the stars shine brightly down on you, bringing the whole feeling into one of peace and tranquillity.

>Passing through the town center, you take a moment to rest on a bench next to the fountain.

>While the bench is low, it is also long enough and has no arm rests so you can lie on it and look up at the sky.

>You rarely get the chance to do this, your work often leaving you too tired, but you marvel at the work of art that is the sky.

>Each star is like a tiny candle, groups of those candles making up constelations.

>If each star was a candle, the moon would be a roaring fireplace, providing warmth and comfort to all those who rest under it's watchful gaze.

>Truly a beautiful sight made more beautiful when compared to the chemical and light polluted skies of Earth.

>As a though that nothing could ruin this moment crosses your mind, something crosses your vision.

>Or rather, something fills your vision, as a mare decides to use your face as a seat.

>Grabbing the offending pony by the flanks, you lift her off and sit up, spitting out not so trace amounts of fluids that were leaking from her.

"Look where you sit," you say angrily, setting her down on the ground, and she turns around, ears down submissively.

>"Sorry... Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?" she asks, her head and chest lowering while her rear stays up.

"Be more careful next time, and wipe yourself, you're soaking wet."

>Seeing nothing is going to happen, she quickly nods her head and sprints off, tail between her legs.

"And that just killed the mood."

>With a sigh and a kicked pebble, you trudge home to finish off your day and hope for a better tomorrow.

 

~~~

 

>The sun is barely peeking through the clouds as the Pegasii prepare for a light rain, and you're making sure to use this time to visit the fillys and colts at the school.

>They are just being let out for recess as you arrive, and almost all of them divert over to you, waving and calling out hellos.

>Even Diamond Tiara and Silver spoon come over, something they had never done before.

"Good afternoon everyone. How's class today?"

>"Really tough," Applebloom replies, and the others nod.

>"But Miss Cheerilee seems kinda sad too," Silver Spoon adds, and there is another round of nodding, this one slower.

>Handing out a few treats as usual, you climb over the low fence and kneel next to the ponies.

"How about your favourite human goes in there and tries to cheer her up?"

>"YEAH!!" the children cheer, and you get up and walk to the schoolhouse.

>The door opens silently as you push it open, but you still hear Cheerilee say, "Who is it?"

"A friend concerned about another," you reply, stepping inside and closing the door behind you.

>"A.. Anon, what are you doing here?"

"I wanted to make sure you were okay after that stupid rumor of Rarity's got out. I've already dealt with it, but I still want you to know It wouldn't and didn't change anything between us."

>A smile spreads on her face, and she stands up from behind the desk.

>"Would it be weird if I hugged you?"

"Only if you don't make it weird," you reply, kneeling down and spreading your arms.

>The cerise mare practically sprints at you, hooves wrapping around your chest as best they can.

>"Thank you," she says into your chest, "If something like that happened with another stallion, I would have been ruined, and could never find a decent guy ever again."

>Behind you, the door opens and the class comes rushing in.

>Cheers ring out, until a filly asks, "Does this mean Miss Cheerilee and Mister Anon are getting married?", and the room goes quiet, dozens of pairs of eyes looking up at the two of you.

"No," you start, and you can almost hear the class go *Awwww*, "but we're still friends, even though we had a small problem between us, isn't that right, Miss Cheerilee?"

>You let her go, and she says, "That's right Anon. Friends should still stay friends, even if they have a little fight or problem, because friends are a very important part of life."

>"Okay," the filly says, "but I still want you to be married to him, so Mister Anon will come over more."

>Both you and her get a laugh out of this, and you are the first to reply.

"Who knows, maybe we will get married in the future, but for now, how about I stop by tomorrow for the whole school day and help out?"

>The whole class cheers and rushes you for hugs, and out of the corner of your eye you see Cheerilee with a smile and a faint blush.

 

 

End Chapter 2.

 

 

>The day at class practically flew by, as you spent equal amounts of time helping each student and Cheerilee the whole time.

>Needless to say, everyone had a blast, and you promised to do it every once in a while.

>And you kept that promise, and weeks go by, and you feel something changing inside you.

>It's hard to describe, kind of like a dimmer switch slowly being turned on, you felt it changing.

>You felt something for Cheerilee.

>More than friendship, you could say you were beginning to love her.

>Sure, you got along well with Rose and her sisters, but something about that Cerise teacher just clicked with you.

>It scared you a little at first, but every moment you spent with her made you feel more and more right.

>And today; today is the day you are going to finally ask her out.

>Dressed in a clean white shirt and nice pants, you go over your hair one last time in the mirror.

"Calm down, Anon, it's just asking a girl on a date, you've done this a bunch of times before.

"Yes, she's just a normal, pretty pink pony girl, nothing strange."

>Pain stings your cheeks as you clap your hands against your face to focus.

>Taking a deep breath, you step out the front door and out into the beautiful sunlight.

>It's a perfect, cloudless day, with nary a breeze to rustle your hair.

>They say the first step is the hardest but you find no trouble in walking down your sidewalk to the main road.

>With it being friday and class about to end, town is fairly busy as parents head to get their children.

>Those foals who's parents haven't arrived yet come over to you as you approach, asking for you to play with them.

>Their parents arrive quickly though, and soon you are alone in the schoolyard, the teacher still inside.

>Pushing open the door, you see her look up from some papers and smile.

>"What brings you here Anon?" she asks, setting them aside.

"I have something I want to ask you, if you're not busy."

>"Of course, I always have time for my class's favourite human."

>Pulling over a desk, you sit down and take a deep breath to calm yourself.

"I was wondering if you'd like to maybe go on a date with me this saturday?"

>This was obviously far from what she expected, as she locks up.

>Seconds tick by, and she shakes her head, causing you to gulp.

>"I'd love to," she replies with a big smile, "when should I pick you up?"

"You shouldn't. I'll come here and pick you up at four, like a gentleman should."

>"O... okay. I'll see you then."

>Jumping forward, you give her a hug, before walking outside and heading for home.

>The moment the door to your house closes behind you, you slup to the ground, your heart beating a mile a minute.

"I did it. I actually asked her!"

>Shooting to your feet, you realize you have nothing planned, and you rush to grab your bit bag.

 

~~~

 

>As Anon steps outside the schoolhouse, you press a hoof to your chest.

>Thumping like a drum, it pounds away, sending blood coursing through your veins as the world snaps back for you.

>Jumping up, you let out a loud *squee* and rush to your house.

>Inside, you grab your sister Berry and hold her tight while spinning around the room.

>"Hey, what's the big celebration?" she asks, holding you out at hooves length.

"He asked me out! Anon asked me on a date!"

>Letting out another squeal, Berry joins in, hugging you close again.

>"That's incredible! But you have nothing nice to wear, remember. The last fancy thing you went to was graduation, and I'm pretty sure your big butt isn't gonna fit in that dress."

>Pushing her away, you look back at your butt.

"It's not that big..."

>Berry pokes it, and it gives a little jiggle, "Right... Well, Anon must not mind, since he chose you, now come on, I have something for you."

>She rushes to her room, and you follow behind.

>The door slams behind her, and as you reach it, it swings open and she holds out a small box.

>"It was a gift from mom, she told me to give it to you when you found somepony special. It's supposed to be lucky with love."

>Opening it, you find a bright pink gem on a silver chain, and you slowly lift it out.

"It's beautiful..." you whisper as you hold it up.

>"Here, let me help," she says, holding it around your neck.

>With a little fidgeting and squirming, she gets it clipped, and it dangles against your breast.

>"Now we have to go and get you something nice to wear."

"But where will I find something? The date's tomorrow."

>"Do you have to ask?" Berry replies, pushing you towards the door, "Now come on, lets get there now so she has plenty of time to make it."

>Walking through town, you can't help but feel like every mare's eyes are on you, despite nop0ny knowing about your date.

>Pushing you inside the Carousel boutique, Berry closes the door behind her.

>"Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where every article is chiq, unique and magnifique," Rarity recites as she walks from the back, "What can I sew for you today?"

>Berry nudges you forward, and you balk a bit.

"I uh... I need something semi-formal for tomorrow around noon. Could you do that?"

>"Of course, Darling, I'm Ponyvilles best seamstress, I could have it done tonight if the need was there."

>She motions you up to a stand, and measuring tapes start flying around you.

>Concious of your slightly more ample posterior porportions again, you shift uncomfortably as they measure you all around.

>"May I ask what this is for? Ponies usually don't need this much of a rush unless it's a date or..."

>A smile forms on her face, and you resist the urge to hide behind your hooves.

>"Who's the stallion? I haven't noticed you with anyp0ny recently but Anon..."

>Her smile spreads further, and it takes all your will to avoid cowering.

>"It is Anon, isn't it."

"Fine, yes, he asked me out today."

>"Eeeeeee! How wonderful! You'll make perfect parents!"

>You can't help but blush at the thought of Anon holding a little filly in one arm and holding you in his other.

>"It's a little early for that," Berry interjects, "this is their first date, we don't even know if they'll get past it. Especially with a butt like that."

>Scowling at her, you hear Rarity humph.

>"I see nothing wrong with her hips. They're perfect for carrying a foal, and I'm sure Anon sees that in her too."

>"That, or he likes a mare with a big booty," Berry says back.

>Rarity nudges you off the stand, and magically drags Berry towards the door while saying, "Move along now, I have much to do."

>Leaving the Boutique behind, you head home with Berry following you.

"Do you have to keep poking fun of my butt?" you ask, looking back at your sister.

>"It's a sibling's job," she replies, poking you flank.

>Sighing, you run ahead, anxious to get away from her and get home.

>Inside before her, you shut the door behind you and sit behind it.

>It rattles as she tries to open it, before saying, "Hey, let me in!"

"Sorry, it seems like my fat flank is stuck in front of the door."

>"Come on, not cool, sis."

"Say it."

>"Really?"

"Say it."

>"No stallion will ever want my bony little butt while a perfect stallion will come and fall in love with your perfect rear."

"Ahem, I don't think a stallion is the right word."

>"Fine, Anon will love you forever, especially because of your cushiony plot.

"Better," you say, getting up and letting her in.

>She gives you a bit of a glare as she passes, and you head for the kitchen to start dinner.

 

~~~

 

>Glancing at the clock for the twentieth time this hour, you see it's finaly three thirty, and you make one final touchup to your look.

>It's not quite a suit, but you look ready for your date.

"Kinda wish I felt ready..."

"Well, it's leave now, or be an asshole, and I'm not an ass."

>Stepping into the sunlight, you walk towards the school, pausing at Rose's flower stand.

>"Good afternoon Anon, what brings you here all dressed like that?"

"I have a date, if you'd believe it. Could I get a dozen of your best roses?"

>"Ooooh, who's the lucky mare?" she asks as she gathers the flowers.

"Cheerilee. I asked her out yesterday and she said yes."

>Wrapping up the flowers in some decorative paper and a bright pink bow, she passes them to you.

>"I'm pretty sure most mares would say yes to you, myself included. For these, no charge. Just promise you'll tell me how the date went, alright?"

"Alright, but I don't kiss and tell, so you know."

>"Like a gentlecolt should."

>With the roses in hand, you wave goodbye and head to Cheerilee's house.

>Countless looks are thrown your way, but a lot seem a little dejected, and for an understandable reason.

>Thankfully, the leaflet also mentioned that humans were predominantly monogamous, so few are going to try while you're dating.

>Three fifty six, and you find yourself outside her door.

>Behind it, you can hear nervous pacing, and you realize she is probably just as nervous as you are.

>A calming breath passes your lips, and you gently knock on the door.

>Cheerilee lets out a nervous squeak, before you hear her steps rushing to the door.

>It swings open, revealing her in an ankle length emerald dress and a bright pink diamond necklace.

>Her hair is done up and straightened, cascading down her neck like a waterfall.

"You look beautiful, Cheerilee," you say before holding out the flowers, "I got these for you."

>"Oh, Anon, they're wonderful," she says as she takes them, breathing in their scent.

>Berry Punch comes from a back room and takes the flowers from Cheerilee.

>"Hi Anon, I don't know if she told you, but I'm her sister. I'll put these away while you two go on your date."

>As she walks away, she looks back over her shoulder and adds, "Oh, and she doesn't have a curfiew, so if you want to invite her over for "coffee", go ahead."

>Even over her normal color, you see Cheerilee blush bright pink and look at the ground.

"Shall we go, Cheerilee?" you ask, gesturing out the door.

>She walks past you, but you stop her with a hand on the shoulder.

>Closing her house door, you walk side by side with her, keeping a hand on her outside shoulder, since you can't hold her hand.

>The contact seems unusual to her, but quite welcome, as she walks closer to you.

>Jealous glares are aimed at Cheerilee and you do what you can to divert them and keep Cheerilee happy by gently scratching and stroking her fur.

>Escorting her to La Maison d'Or, Ponyville's only fairly fancy resturant, you not to the greeter and he escorts you to your table.

>Cheerilee seems a little overwhelmed, so after pulling her seat out for her, you reach out a hand and grab hold of one of her hooves.

"Relax, I'm not going to judge you, or dump you if you screw up. We're out for a nice dinner with eachother for company."

>A smile peeks out from under her nervousness as your thumb massages just above the hoof.

>"You're right, I'm being a little silly, getting nervous like this," she replies, her smile growing.

"That's the mare I asked out, now don't worry about cost, I'm paying for dinner."

>"I couldn..." you cut her off by pressing a finger to her lips.

"It's fine, now please, feel free to indulge yourself."

>Releasing her hoof, you unfold the menus and browse your options.

>While almost entirely vegitarian, there are a few meat based options, though they're fairly simple.

>Settling on a steak, potatoes and a small salad, you wave a waitress over.

>Cheerilee is ready as well, and despite you telling her she can indulge, she orders only a small pasta platter with a side of carrot sticks.

>"I didn't know you eat meat, Anon," she comments as your menus are taken away.

"Not many ponies do, though I don't think they care either. Humans are true omnivores, so we can eat most things, but need a balance to stay healthy."

>"Interesting. What does meat taste like?"

"I couldn't describe it. It's just really good, and probably most humans favourites of our four food groups."

>Your conversation continues as you wait for your meals and dies down a little as you eat.

>By no means does it stop, and you start to share a few more intimate stories which have her giggling as you get the dessert menus.

>"You really did that to your teachers at graduation?"

"Yeah. Good thing I had already gotten my diploma, because I had to book it out of there right quick."

>"I can imagine. So, what looks good for dessert?"

"I had a few thoughts, though one of them can wait till later."

>She tilts her head confused, before shrugging and looking over her menu again.

>"Hmmm, it all looks so good, I can't decide."

"How about we split something? I'm fairly full, so I don't think I could eat a whole dessert right now."

>"A chocolate lava sundae then?"

"Sounds good."

>Dessert is set between you two, along with a spoon.

>Shifting your chair around, you pull the sundae over and lift a scoop up for Cheerilee.

>Smiling, she leans forward and accepts the scoop, closing her eyes and savouring the flavour.

>When you lift a scoop to your own mouth, Cheerilee lets out a bit of a gasp, and you look at her, your mouth still open and ready to recieve the frozen treat.

>"But that's the same spoon..."

"And?"

>"It's an indirect kiss..." she says, blushing a bit.

>Setting the spoon back in the bowl, you hold her chin with a hand, turn her towards you and give her a quick kiss on the lips.

"There, now it doesn't matter, right?"

>She freezes up, and you take a scoop of icecream, gently pry open her mouth and put it inside.

"We do have to eat this before it melts, you know."

>Dumping the icecream from the spoon in her mouth, you take a scoop for yourself.

>The icecream is cold, while the choclate is hot, leaving a pleasant mix at the end.

>Cheerilee is still frozen there as you bring another spoonfull up for her, making you nervous.

"Was the kiss too much? Sorry if it was."

>Snapping to, she shakes her head before diving onto the spoon.

>After swallowing, she says, "It was just surprising. Stallions are usually rough and just want the satisfaction and dominance."

"That's hardly a kiss then. A kiss can be sweet or friendly, loving or passionate, but it should never be about power."

>You can see her gulp a bit before asking, "what kind of kiss was yours then?"

"A little of this, a little of that. Mostly just to make you feel okay with sharing the icecream though."

>"So I don't need another?"

>It's impossible to hold back your smile, and you gently run your hand along the side of her face.

"We're dating. If you want one, just ask."

>With a small smile back, she closes her eyes and purses her lips, leaning forward.

>Obliging her unpoken request, you give her a quick kiss before taking a bite of icecream.

>While the two of you finish dessert, a sort of nervous giddiness seems to fill your date, though a smile never leaves her face.

>The bill is delivered, and you drop the bits plus a tip on the tray before pulling out Cheerilee's chair again.

>Escorting her from the resturant, you lead her out to the park as the sun begins to set.

>Pinks and reds take to the sky as you and her take to a bench.

>Wrapping an arm around her, you pull her to your side as the two of you wordlessly watch the sun sink below the horizon and it's accompanying lightshow.

>By the same respects, you watch the moon rise and the stars light up, a silent serenade directed by Luna.

>Background sounds slowly blend into nothing as she nestles into your arm before you lay down, resting her on your chest.

>Together, you simply gaze at the sky and the twinkling stars, relishing in eachother's warmth.

>"I... Thank you for this, it's wonderful," she says, rolling over so she can look at you.

>Her eyes sparkle like emeralds in the moonlight, your arms subconciously wrapping around her.

"I think so too. I'm glad you said yes."

>A warm, childlike laugh comes from her, and she nuzzles into your neck.

>"Any mare who would say no to a wonderful guy like you would have to be crazy,"

"I'm not that wonderful," you start to reply, before she leans back and covers your mouth with a hoof.

>"You are. The number of stallions out there who would do everything you have done tonight would number under fifty."

>Resting her head on your chest again, she lets out a content sigh, "And I'm the lucky mare you chose to date."

"Do you want to know why?" you ask, lifting her face, and she nods.

"It's because you're sweet, friendly, good with kids, beautiful, you have a wonderful laugh, I like spending time with you..."

>Your little rant is cut off by her leaning forward and kissing you, your eyes closing and your arms wrapping around her reflexively.

>"Please, even if this is just a prank or something, please let us stay like this a bit."

>Holding her close, you gently rub her back.

"I swear this is not a prank. I do really care for you, and if things keep on like this, I can see us under the wedding bells."

>Little tears sparkle under her eyes like little diamonds, and she holds you close while lightly crying into your shoulder.

>Sitting up with her, your hand moves up and strokes her soft mane.

"Come on, Cheerilee, let's get you home before your sister gets any idea's."

>Climbing off your lap, she nods, and you wipe the last tears from her eyes.

>Helping her off the bench, she presses up against your side and you rest a hand on her shoulder.

>Through the quiet streets you guide Cheerilee home.

>Lights are on inside, probably Berry waiting to grill Cheerilee about her date with you.

>Swallowing, she walks up to the door before turning back to you.

>"Well... um... Goodnight Anon..." she say, before you step close and lift her forehooves up.

>Wrapping her in a hug, you press your lips to hers for a moment, and she practically melts in your arms.

>Her hooves hardly seem capable of holding her, but there is a distinct blush on her cheeks as she fumbles with the doorknob.

"Goodnight Cheerilee, I'll see you soon."

>She nods quickly before slipping inside.

>Like a plug pulled on a sink, all the built up excitement and anxiety drain from you, and you skip home like Pinkie Pie is your shoes.

>That night, your dreams are as sweet as the sundae, and all about the cerise schoolteacher.

 

~~~

 

>Sitting against the door, you see your sister approaching, a smug smile on her face, seeing the blush on yours.

>"So, looks like someone had some "fun"," she says, wiggling her eyebrows.

"Not like that. He took me out to a nice dinner, paid for it all then we sat and watched the sunset and moon rise before coming back here."

>"Oh? Then why do you look like you just finished a marathon?"

"He um... he told me all sorts of things and... and..."

>A bright red blush crawls up your cheeks again, and Berry giggles.

>"Alright, you can tell me after some, "alone" time in your room. Good night, lovergirl."

>Setting your dress to clean and putting your necklace on your bedstand, you sit there, staring at the wall.

>Anon runs through your thoughts, the feeling of his lips, the smell of his body, his charming smile.

>Everything about him sends butterflys through your system and leaves you with a warm, happy sensation.

"And he's dating me!"*Squee!*

>Hugging your pillow, you curl up, ready for a night filled with wonderful dreams.

 

 

End chapter 3