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Pants in the Relationship pt. 4
By Jchallo8Created: 2021-09-30 06:59:14
Updated: 2021-11-07 01:26:30
Expiry: Never
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1.
>God you love Friday nights.
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>You take a gander at the company that you have in your makeshift bar in your basement.
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>Cheerilee rants on about how shitty some of the fillies are in her class as usual.
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>Dash and Soarin play a few rounds of 21 at the round poker table, soon enough it'll be a crowd.
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>And chances are some of these ponies won't be happy about losing a few bits.
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>Checking your watch on the wall to your left, you take note that Berry could be here any minute with her date.
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>You tune back into the rant Cheerilee was unleashing.
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>"She's such a little shit. Do you know how many bits I have saved up to give the Cutie Mark Crusaders on the day they finally jump that pink snot nose over-bloated ego of a filly? I would honestly look the other way and slap an A on whatever test they take next."
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>You had to laugh as you make Cheerilee her last drink for tonight.
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"Yeah, gonna have to cut you off after this one. The Schoolboard would panic if they heard you saying shit like that."
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>She slams a hoof on the table, causing Ditzy to jump, making a squeak.
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>"Keep em' comin' damn it. I'm tryin' to cut loose here!"
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>You shake your head as you slide the drink she ordered to her then turn to Ditzy.
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"Alright, Ditz, you remember where these bottles go?" You ask, gesturing to the bottles you just used.
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>She nods, "mhm!"
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"Good, protect those bottles with your life. Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to see if Berry is here yet."
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>"Okay!"
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>You ruffle her mane.
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"Hold down the fort while I'm gone. If anyone orders a mojito, tell them to shove it."
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>"Yes sir!" She says, giving a salute.
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>You walk from behind the bar and start walking up the stair, but you listen hard for any glass shattering.
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>"Hey, new barkeep, can I get a beer?" Soarin asks.
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>"Coming right up!" Ditzy shoots back.
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>You make a humble nod as you keep climbing the stairs.
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>As you walk into the living room, a glimpse of pink catches the corner of your eye.
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>You turn your head toward the dining area before you can muster up a response; your feet were already heading to the area.
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>"Hey there old roomie!" Pinkie waves frantically for you to come over.
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>You roll your eyes from the nickname.
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>A couple of years ago, Pinkie and the Cakes had a bit of fallout, and Pinkie crashed on your couch for a week.
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>That was the most chaotic week you've experienced in your life.
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>As a result, you tossed her a copy of your keys only for her to keep.
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>You've never minded her popping in unannounced since she has the uncanny timing of knowing when and when not to drop by.
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>There were times she'd drop off some groceries or even some cupcakes that were left over after closing.
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>Pinkie and the Cakes are on good terms again.
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"Hey Pinkie, did you just get off?"
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>You have a seat across from her as she takes a bite out of her veggie sandwich.
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>After she chews a couple of times and swallows, she licks the corners of her mouth.
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>"Mhm! Got the whole weekend off too! What about you? Doing anything this weekend?"
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>You groan under your breath from recalling the deal you made with The Ditzy.
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"No, I got this thing to do at Applejack's. Tomorrow morning."
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>"Haha, I get to sleep in~"
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"I hate you."
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>Pinkie giggles to herself, "Hey, at least you have someone to snuggle with."
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>You put your hand up, to stop her from going any further.
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"If that's a segue to make a jab at me and Ditzy, I won't have it."
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>Pinkie averts her eyes, putting on an innocent face, but failing to hide her grin.
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"You're the worst."
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>A knock at the door, reminded you of Berry's request.
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"Oh, by the way, Pinkie, Berry's bringing a date, she'd like it if we can keep things tamed this evening."
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>A frown shows up on Pinkie's face.
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"Hey, don't gimme that, for once, Berry is acting responsibly. Give her some credit."
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>Pinkie shrugs.
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>"Okay Nonners."
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>You get up from your chair and head for the door.
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>Open the door, and as you expected. Berry Punch and her date.
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>The stallion earth pony standing beside her had a light brown coat, black mane.
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>"Hey Anon, meet Dustbowl."
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---
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"Hold the phone," you say, passing a just-opened beer over to Dustbowl. "Berry does what now? Look over apartment applications and such?"
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>"Yes."
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>"At a desk?" Cheerilee adds.
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>"Where she does customer service and is nice about it?" Dash asks, grinning at the poker table in her green poker visor as she dishes out cards.
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>"I wouldn't expect her to do otherwise," Dustbowl replies, taking a moment to nurse his drink at the bar.
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>In the span of him savoring his drink the whole room had a conversation about how oblivious Dustbowl is about good ol' Berry Punch.
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>Berry Punch met eyes with you for a moment to convey to knock off the barrage of questions.
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>"What got you two a-talkin'?" Cheerilee asks, "Was it her thick flank?"
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>Immediately Dustbowl clears his throat to prevent the drink from going down the wrong pipe.
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>"Excuse me?"
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"She's asking if it was her looks that caught your attention."
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>"Yes, of course, I can tell she's well kept, her coat and mane were always shining when she came into work."
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>Dash's lips were quivering at the poker table, almost failing to hold in her laugh.
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>You can see on her face Berry was quick to change the subject.
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>"So Anon, what's going on with you nowadays? Grab any odd jobs lately?"
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>Being the kind person that you are, you figured Berry has been in the hole long enough.
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"Actually yeah, a new mare from manehatten wants me to do some repairs at an apartment she's looking at."
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>Dustbowl's ears twitch a little, tuning into the conversation.
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>"Pardon me, but her name wouldn't happen to be Coco Pummel would it?"
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"You know her?"
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>"She's our potential tenant, yes."
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"Oh, small world."
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>"So what do you think? The repairs doable?"
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"I've seen worst, honestly."
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>Both Berry and Dustbowl sigh in relief.
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>"Oh thank you so much, our maintenance team swore off working in that apartment."
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"Believe me, I can't blame em. Although some wiring and carpet cleaning will make it habitable."
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>"Of course."
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"Also, get a new fridge for the place."
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>"What's wrong with it? That's a recent model"
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>Both you and Ditz share a look, then you turn back to Dustbowl.
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"Trust me on this. What lies dormant in that fridge warrants it."
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>"'What lies dormant', being a bit dramatic Anon?" Cheerilee says.
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>"No he's telling the truth, I saw what it was, some huge bug about the size of Anon's head," Ditz says, backing you up.
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>"I'm just saying you make it sound like some Lovecraftian horror," Cheerilee replies.
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"Hold up, how do you know that name?"
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>"Oh some author from the older times."
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>Your eyes dart back in forth, fascinated by how your world intertwines with this one.
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>"You okay Anon?"
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"Yeah, I'm just making a mental note to ask Twilight some questions. Anyway, when you throw the fridge out, make sure it's locked down."
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>"Of course."
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"I'm talking chains and padlocks, and throw it in a pit and set it on fire. Please."
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>"I'll keep that in mind, when are you planning on doing the cleaning?"
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"I'll get started on it Monday, should take a couple of days."
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>"Works for us, if you need to use any equipment just drop by the office."
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>You nod, happy you won't be shilling bits out for equipment at the hardware store.
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"Sounds like a plan."
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>"Hey Anon when are you gonna join us for a game?" Dash asks.
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"Ah, I've been meaning to take y'alls money. But I'm still training my bar-back."
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>"Pff, bartending can't be THAT hard," Dash says, studying her hand.
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>Upon hearing the sentence your old life flashes before your eyes reminded of the few bartending gigs you worked.
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>The horror.
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>And the fun.
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>Countless numbers are thrown at you almost as many ridiculous requests that gave you a headache.
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"You'd be surprised Dash," you reply, suppressing residual anger swelling up from those jobs.
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>"It's okay Anon, I think I can handle it, besides if I don't how to make it, I'll just ask you."
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"Well, since Dash is so eager to lose her money..."
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---
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>Not even thirty minutes later, the poker table is demoralized from the number of bits stacking on your side of the table.
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>Soarin started preemptively folding.
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>Dash's cloud of frustration is brewing into a storm above her head.
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>Cheerilee and Ditzy chat at the bar, and Dustbowl and Berry Punch enjoy chatting amongst each other.
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>Pinkie came down to join the fun and waits for her drink.
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>"Hey Anon Pinkie wants a 'Brave Bull', what's that?"
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>You cut your eye over to the bar, and catch Pinkie Pie looking back at you.
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"Now, what are you doing ordering that at this time of night?"
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>"It's a nightcap for me."
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"Mhm, sure." you make eye contact with Ditzy. "Short glass, two parts tequila, and one part coffee liqueur. You'll find the coffee liqueur in the far back."
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>Pinkie goes to open her mouth and you continue.
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"Drop a sugar cube in it with a drop of cream, give it a stir, it's how Pinkie likes it."
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>Ditzy gets to work as Pinkie beams at you, giving a thankful nod.
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>You shift your focus back to the poker table.
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"I've one question for you guys."
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>Dash tosses a few bits in, Soarin cautiously tosses one.
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>"What's that Anon?"
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"What do you call it when Celestia finishes using the toilet?"
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>"What?"
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"ROYAL FLUSH, read 'em and weep!"
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>You slam down the hand, Dash groans, Soarin throws his head back and Pinkie cackles from your pun.
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>"Fuck you Anon, how are you always getting the good hands?"
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>You shrug as you rack in the pile of bits.
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"I'm just hot tonight, that's all."
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>Dash lets her head hit the table.
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>Soarin gets up from the table and walks over to the bar.
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>"Ditzy, hit me with a beer, I need to numb the pain."
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>Dash raises her head from coming into the second wind of stubbornness.
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>"Deal," she says flatly, a hint of inebriation. "Double or nothin'."
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>Dash's eyes furrowed, maintaining eye contact with you as she tapped a hoof on the table.
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"What's this? Thought I stomped out your hope last round."
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>"Give it up, Dash." Cheerilee says. "You know Anon will never turn down free money."
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"Damn skippy, now quiet Cheer, it's not like Dash will miss the bits."
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>She really won't since she's with the Wonderbolts now.
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>"Anonymous Redacted Unknown I will not let you take advantage of a drunk mare like that," Cheerilee insisted, adopting her authoritative teacher voice.
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>There's no winning when Cheerilee goes teacher mode.
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>You take a deep breath, it's best to quit while you're ahead.
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>Thanks to Dash and Soarin's losses, you've got your bills covered for the next month.
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"Very well, Cheerilee."
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>"What? You scared of the school teacher?" Dash asks, the smugness leaking through her smile.
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"Gee, sure got me there Dash," you say, collecting your pile of bits. "Excuse me for a moment while I put up my money."
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>Dash's eyes water, watching her money leave the table, and you head for your bedroom to put the bits in your hidden stash.
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>You pull out your bottom drawer, and pull out a coffee can-- you're savings account.
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>You do a count to make sure it's all there, and grin from adding tonight's earnings. And add it to your ledger next to the coffee can.
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>Feels good having a few months saved up. It's a great cushion should you fall short a month on odd jobs.
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>You walk downstairs, surprised to find Dustbowl heading for your front door without Berry.
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"Heading out? Without Berry?"
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>"I'm afraid I have matters to attend to tomorrow morning."
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"I know that life, thanks for stopping by, hope no one made you feel uncomfortable."
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>"Nonsense, I quite enjoyed myself, but had to cut tonight short."
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"We'll be kicking back again tomorrow, feel free to stop by if you have the time."
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>"I'll take you up on that, I need to get out more anyway."
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>He opens the door then steps outside.
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"Safe travels out there."
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>"See you tomorrow, my friend."
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>Soon as the door closes, you knew the tomfoolery that was about to unfold.
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>"ANON!" Pinkie shouts from the basement with her sound barrier-breaking voice.
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"Yeah?!" You shout from your living room as you walk downstairs.
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>"BAR NEEDS LIMES AND SALT FROM THE KITCHEN!"
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>You smirk.
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"Coming up!"
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>7 naked shot glasses, filled with tequila, dressed with lime juice and salt on the rim, neighbored by a plate of lime wedges.
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>6 ponies gathered at the bar, preparing for your toast.
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>Smiles on everyone's faces as you raise your glass.
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"Berry, you've surprised me this evening, and just want to go on the record to say-"
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>"Smartass remark is imminent, everyp0ny brace yourselves," Berry says as she places her hoofs on the bar, holding tight.
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"I was going to say that today is the most civil I've ever seen you, you really like this guy."
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>"Wait... that comment didn't sting."
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"Yeah, I'm actually shocked that I'm proud of you."
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>"And there it is."
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"Anyway, not to make a mountain out of a moment, but here's hoping something long-term happens between you two."
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>Everyone but you take a moment to lick the rim of the glass, take their shot of tequila, then bite on the lime.
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>Somehow, it became a tradition in your group of friends that you had to be the last one to take the shot if you make the toast.
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>Once everyone took some time getting it down, Berry opens her big mouth.
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>"Actually..." she starts while you take your shot.
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>You bit on the lime, and you take a second since you don't usually down tequila often. It's an acquired taste.
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>"I'm only dating him to get a promotion," she says with a smirk.
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>You lean on the bar as you process the shot, you only had one thing to say.
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"Whore."
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>Berry cracks up and playfully punches your forearm, "there's the Anon I know! No, but really, he's a great guy."
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>"What the heck does he see in you?" Dash asks.
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"Dash. Are you asking that question out of spite from what Berry-"
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>"YES. Why does she get all the-"
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"Gonna stop you right there, Dash."
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>Dash rolls her eyes, "Oh what? Are you going to say that I have no room to criticize?"
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"Surprisingly self-aware of you, but yeah."
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>You turn to your left toward Ditzy.
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"Can you fix Dash another Lost Cause?"
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>"Ugh, very funny Anon."
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"It's not a knock on you. I just wanna make sure you're liquored up before I say this. And you seem to like the drink."
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>"Uh, thanks?"
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"What I'm about to say is medicine and I'm not trying to be terrible to you. Everyone here would agree."
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>Soarin just leans his head back laughing, knowing perfectly well what you're about to say.
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>"Anon you're a braver fella than I thought."
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>Ditzy presents the drink to Dash.
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>"Hey Anon, I'm getting more paper towels, be right back."
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"Sounds good, Ditz."
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>Ditzy flutters upstairs and you focus your attention back on Dash and point to the drink in front of her.
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"Get a good swig of that. Trust me."
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>She furrows her eyebrows. "Fine."
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>The way Dash sucked down the drink through the straw convinced you she really shouldn't be having relationship problems.
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>"Alright, hit me."
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"Dash. You. As a marefriend..."
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>"Yeah?"
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"You're the biggest cunt."
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>Her jaw drops as Soarin's eyes cut back and forth between you and Dash.
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>"What? Anon you're exaggerating."
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>"No dear, Anon's telling the truth," Cheerilee says, wrapping a forearm around her for a quick comforting hug.
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"You're very adamant about trying to wear the pants in the relationship. And it's only turning stallions away from you."
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>"It's why Vanilla Swirl, Anon, and I went on that trip to Manehatten," Soaring chimes in.
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>"Wait, the Dude's trip a couple of months ago? I thought y'all were going to a concert."
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"Yeah, and he couldn't shut up about he's met BDSM Doms who have more chill than you."
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>"Hmm, maybe Dash should be a dom," Cheerilee replies, tapping a hoof on her chin.
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"Cheerilee why are you like this? No. Dash, do not listen to this vixen. How are you a schoolteacher?"
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>"Anon she might as well lean into it," Cheerilee replies, shrugging her shoulders.
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"Is it true you made Vanilla Swirl cry when you made him order AND eat broccoli--which he's allergic to--on your first date?"
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>The whole crowd went silent, the leers from Berry Punch and Cheerilee did all the work you needed to be done.
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>You turn to Cheerilee.
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"Still think she should be a Dom?"
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>"My stars, no! You have to cater to your bottom's needs."
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>"What did I just trot into?" Ditzy asks, leaning her head to the side while she carries two rolls of paper towels.
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"Oh, nothing, just Dash's failed career as a dominatrix."
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>Dash takes another hefty swig of her drink.
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>"I thought he was joking. Like who's allergic to broccoli? Like actually allergic to broccoli?"
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"He isn't the only example."
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>"What do you mean Anon? I haven't dated anyone else besides you that one time."
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>"You dated Anon?" Ditzy asks, her tone a little more pushy than inquisitive.
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>You put up your hands to calm the implication and turn to Ditzy.
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"As a favor, Dash needed a plus one to this Gala. I barely just met her and she was insufferably bossy."
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>"I had to be. I'm an Element of Harmony and had to make a good impression."
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>"Oh, how'd that work out?"
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>"Anonymous ended up on the papers for half a month," Berry Punch says with a knowing giggle she can't tame.
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>She had to wipe a tear from her eye.
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>Ditzy approaches the bar. "What? What did Anon do?" Ditzy asks.
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>"Were you living under a rock Ditzy?" Soarin asks.
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>Cheerilee had to chuckle, "Anon put a saddle onto Celestia and slapped her flank to make her kick cake on guests."
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"Made bank that day too."
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>"But you're also not allowed in Canterlot right?" Berry Punch asked.
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"Only because Celestia got aroused and wants to keep temptation at bay."
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>"What's scary is you're probably right. Too many Celestia stories out there," Soarin says, signaling to Ditzy for a beer.
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>"Ditzy, soon as I read the paper, I had to find Anon," Berry Punch says, "I knew we'd get along."
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"But not to get off the subject. The main thing is, Dash puts the Top in Top Cunt."
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>"Maybe let the stallions do the leading, hmm Dash?" Cheerilee says, giving another comforting one-armed hug.
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>"Am I really that bad?" Dash hangs her head, only two sips left of her drink.
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"Yes Dash, I did that stunt out of spite. I didn't expect the night to be fun, but to be literal hell because you kept micromanaging? Celestia got lucky."
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>"Do you always saddle mares when you're mad?" Berry Punch asks, grinning.
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>"Hmm, on second thought maybe Anon should be a Dom," Cheerilee remarks.
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"What's with you mares? Is Estrus all year 'round or some shit?"
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---
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>You look at the clock and dreading having such a good time talking shit with your friends.
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>Calling it a night at one-thirty is awfully early for you guys, but you gotta uphold the deal between you and Ditzy.
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>You're grabbing some nightwear before you head into the bathroom to shower.
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>The steam is starting to fog the mirrors as the water runs.
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>"Tick Tock, Anon~"
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"Any chance we can wiggle that back to seven-thirty?"
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>"Can I shower with you?"
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"Bold question, but no."
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>"Then no," she says, her head on the pillow, some of her mane in her face.
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>The light from the bathroom shines on her face in an otherwise dark room.
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>"Hurry back now~"
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>You nod and head off into the shower.
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>The shower's warmth was comforting, but it's a shame you can't take a prolonged comfortable shower.
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>Once you got out and dried off, you walk back into your bedroom to find Ditzy reading a book on your nightstand.
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"I hope you didn't lose my place."
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>"Oh not at all, you don't have any Daring Do books?"
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"Seen the movies already."
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>"She made movies?"
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>You laugh to yourself, realizing what you meant to say.
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"I mean, I've seen movies back on Earth that are very similar."
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>"Oooh, I would've been upset, there's no way she wouldn't tell me."
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>You slide under the covers with a question forming in your head.
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"Wait, are you saying you know Daring Do?"
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>Ditzy cuddles up to you, making a tired nod, "the mail mare knows everyp0ny, Anon."
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>As you pull her into you, struggling to keep your heavy eyes open.
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"Ominous."
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>She smiles, her eyes focused on you as she falls asleep.
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>"Mhmm."
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>Her forelegs wrap around your torso.
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"Goodnight, Ditzy."
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--
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>"What the hay? Are my eyes decievin' me?" Applejack asks, leaning on the fence at the entrance of the farm while she looks at the sunrise.
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"Yeah, I'm here, although not willingly," you say, your eyes at mere slits, and using a hand to block the sunlight.
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>The walk to the ranch did wake you up a fair bit, but you're still able to perfectly feel the warmth of your bed.
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>Applejack looks to Ditzy.
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325.
>"How the heck did you pull that off? Also, did ya give up on that pants hangin' nonsense?"
-
326.
>"We made a deal, for now."
-
327.
>You picked up on Ditzy smirk.
-
328.
"Look, let's get this done, I gotta get some sleep," you say as you lean on the fence for a bit.
-
329.
>"Don't you worry, Granny Smith has a pot of coffee with ya name on it."
-
330.
>Applejack chuckles again," 'can't expect me to be outta bed before noon', guess you need the right mare for the motivation hmm?"
-
331.
"Funny."
-
332.
>"Not much of a talker in the mornings are ya?" she makes a nod toward the house, "don't be shy now, go ahead and say hello to the family."
-
333.
>Despite your sleepy demeanor, you manage to smile a little, realizing it's been a while since you've seen Granny Smith and Applebloom.
-
334.
>"Ah'll catch up with y'all innabit, just doing a little sun gazing, before Ah start the day."
-
335.
-
336.
-
337.
>Granny Smith and Applebloom were already up like weird-ass early-birds tending to the kitchen.
-
338.
>A welcoming apple cinnamon aroma was very apparent the closer you got to the front door.
-
339.
>You notice Granny's ears perk up when the screen door squeaked.
-
340.
>"Well Applebloom Ah guess me and Applejack owe ya some bits." Granny nods a hello, "Good morning Anon, great to see ya."
-
341.
>"Anon's here?!" Applebloom shouts from the living room and before long, a pitter-patter of hooves followed.
-
342.
>Before you can make two steps into the kitchen Applebloom was already greeting you by hugging your leg.
-
343.
>You stoop down to give her a well-deserved head pat.
-
344.
>"Ah see ya brought some company today," Granny says. "This the troublemaker Applejack been blabbering about huh?"
-
345.
>You're not even remotely surprised that Applejack would mention Ditzy.
-
346.
"Something like that," you say. "Granny, can I bother for a cup of coffee?"
-
347.
>"Cup o joe coming up, you two have a seat and get comfy. Applebloom check on the apple fritters, it don't take long to fry em."
-
348.
>Applebloom looks up to you, "Anon we gotta catch up alright? You're always busy."
-
349.
"Hey hey don't you frown, I'll be around for a good while today."
-
350.
>"Ah'll hold ya to that Anon," she says before speeding off into the kitchen.
-
351.
-
352.
-
353.
-
354.
>Granny and Applebloom come to the dining table with a plate of warm bear claws and apple fritters as you made small talk with Ditzy.
-
355.
>You were on your second cup of coffee, you gradually waking up, Ditzy is taking notice of how more talkative you're being with her.
-
356.
>Granny Smith pulls up a chair while you reach for a bear claw.
-
357.
>"Anon, Ah know you've just about had it with everyp0ny in town talkin about ya."
-
358.
"What have you heard?"
-
359.
>"Today? Too much."
-
360.
"What? It's not even eight in the morning yet. Berry Punch must be paid to blabber that much."
-
361.
>She has a giggle, "ever the insightful one aren't ye?"
-
362.
>Even though Granny Smith made her little jab, she took mercy on you today.
-
363.
>For about fifteen minutes, you were catching up with her and Applebloom.
-
364.
>It's one of the more pleasant mornings you've had in recent memory.
-
365.
>Ditzy told a story about how delivering a package one time caused her to meet Photo Finish.
-
366.
>Before long, Applejack finally shows herself, ready to work.
-
367.
>The screen door bangs open, heads for the dining room.
-
368.
>"Welp Anon, it's about that time."
-
369.
>You look over to a wall clock to see 8:30 am staring back at you.
-
370.
"I'm right behind you."
-
371.
>Applejack nods and heads back outside as you get up from the table.
-
372.
"I'll see you ladies in a couple of hours, hope Ditzy won't be too much trouble."
-
373.
>"Oh she'll be alright, just watch out for Ol' Slide out there at that old barn, he's a mean one."
-
374.
"Uh, sure."
-
375.
-
376.
--
-
377.
-
378.
-
379.
"Who is 'Ol' Slide' by the way?" you ask Applejack as you approach the old barn that's been beaten up by countless storms.
-
380.
>Applejack turns back to you, laughing to herself from whatever inside joke she knows about.
-
381.
>"Relax, Ol' Slide ain't nothing to worry about. Now grab those gloves from over there and that sledgehammer, we need to break this door down."
-
382.
"On it."
-
383.
-
384.
>You coughed up a lung from all the dust that fogged the barn when you broke in, the sunlight breaks into the barn as you stand over the door you knocked in.
-
385.
>Looking around, you see an old cradle, some old dresser with a shattered mirror, some rusted old wagon spoke wheels.
-
386.
>There was a hint of moss on the wooden boards of the barn, chipped red paint littered the grey sand at where the boards and ground meet.
-
387.
>Along the walls were what you assume were family portraits, the only thing left of the paintings were faded out. The wooden frames warped, cracked.
-
388.
>There was an old four-legged bathtub, rusted as well, the drain corroded.
-
389.
>Hammers, nails and an old hand saw were found bundled in the tub with dirt and leaves.
-
390.
>An old red kerosene canister was found on a workbench.
-
391.
>You can only whistle.
-
392.
"What era did we step into here?" You say as you lean the sledgehammer against the doorframe.
-
393.
>Applejack trots in, taking a gander of the contents of the shed.
-
394.
>"My best guess is when Granny was little. But it's mostly junk in here now."
-
395.
"What are you going to do with the junk?"
-
396.
>"Big Mac has a flatbed that he'll pull all this stuff with, we just gotta move it outta here."
-
397.
>She checks her nonexistent watch on her wrist, "he should be here in a little bit."
-
398.
-
399.
-
400.
-
401.
>When it comes to working with Applejack, there's an unspoken work system you have with her.
-
402.
>Because you two think so alike when tackling tasks, it's easier to get everything done.
-
403.
>For example, both of you knew to deal with the heavier stuff first so it'll get easier over time.
-
404.
>Along with that was a baseline protocol on lifting heavy stuff.
-
405.
>The whole time with the occasional grunting and gritting of teeth, you and Applejack carry on with a nonchalant conversation about baking recipes and being well-traveled.
-
406.
>Just as you roll out the spoked wheels, Big Mac shows up pulling the flatbed.
-
407.
>"Morning," Big Mac says with a nod.
-
408.
>Awfully chatty of him, he might be running off three pots of coffee.
-
409.
"Been a while, Big Mac."
-
410.
>"Yup."
-
411.
>You help load a few things on the flatbed before heading back into the shed.
-
412.
"Going to grab that portrait."
-
413.
>Applejack nods then turn to Big Mac to give him the game plan.
-
414.
>You walk to the back wall of the shed to pick up the portrait, and curiosity sparked.
-
415.
>A lot of paintings and portraits tend to have something written on the back.
-
416.
>Sadly, there was nothing that you could make out from most of them outside of a date and half a name.
-
417.
>Once all the items were loaded you had a clear image of a cold glass of water in your mind's eye.
-
418.
>But now comes the fun part, both you and Applejack had smiles growing on your faces.
-
419.
>Demolition time.
-
420.
>Nothing quite like breaking down a barn, it's good exercise and helps relieve some stress.
-
421.
>Applejack notices you rolling up your sleeves and winding your arms.
-
422.
>"Where you been hiding that muscle?" She asks, stretching her legs and practicing her buck kicks in the air.
-
423.
"Don't worry about that."
-
424.
-
425.
>Twenty minutes later the old barn has collapsed into a pile of splintered red paint chipped wood.
-
426.
>You're helping gather the broken planks into a pile while Applejack relaxes under the shade of a tree.
-
427.
"Damn you're getting old Applejack, you taking a break already?"
-
428.
>"Course Ah am, been up since four this mornin' workin the farm. I ain't Super Mare."
-
429.
"Could've fooled me."
-
430.
>"Keep on talkin that mess now, and don't think Ah'll let that 'getting old' remark slide."
-
431.
>You're laughing as you walk back to the collapsed barn.
-
432.
>Picking up a plank revealed a trail of scales that are coiled up.
-
433.
"The fuck is this," you ask as start to notice the diamond shaped head sitting in the center.
-
434.
> Its mouth stretches open revealing the pink interior and sharp fangs reflecting the sunlight.
-
435.
"OH SHIT!"
-
436.
>You jump back as it launches you, the only thing you have to defend with is a plank you can use as a tool.
-
437.
>A skillful side dodge was barely enough since the snake homed in on your left thigh, fangs out.
-
438.
>Applejack hops on her hooves rushing over, by the time she got to you, you've already landed three bone-crushing blows to its head.
-
439.
>"Y'alright sugarcube?!"
-
440.
>She starting patting you down looking for bite marks, "he didn't git ya did he?"
-
441.
"I'm alright, I'm fine."
-
442.
>She shakes her head, "take the pants off, we gotta make sure."
-
443.
"You must be crazy if you thi-"
-
444.
>"Hustle now, c'mon! Ain't no time to argue with ya!"
-
445.
>As fast as you could you got your pants off, leaving you down to your boxes.
-
446.
>Applejack circles around, "you don't have any cuts on you anywhere do ya?" She asks, lightly smacking your thighs and calves.
-
447.
"Are you done oogling?"
-
448.
>She meets your eyes with hers, "Anon, if that venom gets on any open wound, no matter how small we would have to send you to the hospital."
-
449.
>Before you can retort she already has a hoof up, "and Ah ain't pervin' right now."
-
450.
"What do you mean 'right now'? Applejack, give me my pants back before someone gets the wrong idea."
-
451.
>She has a slight chuckle, as she hands you your pants back, "you realize that if Ah wanted ya, it ain't much you can do to stop me, right?"
-
452.
"That's a bit presumptuous."
-
453.
>You slip your pants on as Applejack takes a look at the snake that got the breaks beat off of it.
-
454.
>"Y'know, that reaction time you had there is mighty impressive. Maybe ya might not be the easiest target."
-
455.
"It should tell you something that Fluttershy gave up."
-
456.
>"Yet Ditzy is wearin' ya down."
-
457.
>Even though you're readjusting your pants and tightening your belt while facing away from Applejack, you can picture the smug look on her face.
-
458.
"No one can account for the Drunken Fist style, but she makes for fine company."
-
459.
>"Anooon!" Applebloom shouts from a hill while waving at you, "Ah made some lemonade for y'all, ice-cold and everythin'!"
-
460.
"Well Applejack, you done with your flirting?"
-
461.
>"All Ah said was you ain't the easiest target."
-
462.
"Damn right."
-
463.
>"But you're still an easy target."
-
464.
"How about we agree to disagree on that one."
-
465.
>"Sure," Applejack takes a moment to dust off her hat after finishing inspecting the dead snake.
-
466.
>"Well, congratulations Anon, ya killed Ol' Slide. Granny Smith'll be happy about that news."
-
467.
>You dust off your shoulders like it was nothing and join Applejack on the walk back to the house.
-
468.
"Ya damn skippy."
-
469.
>A beat of silence between you two as Applejack casts an unamusing glare as she walks beside you.
-
470.
>"Boy what Ah tell ya about talkin' like me?" She jabs your side as your laughing like a goofy idiot.
-
471.
>"Hurry up and git in this house. Ya keep givin' me reasons to smack you somethin' proper. Are you tryna get me heated Anon?"
-
472.
-
473.
-
474.
-
475.
-
476.
---
-
477.
-
478.
>You have forgotten about these moments after hard work. The winddown and cooling off.
-
479.
>A rewarding rest and a cool drink while you take in the scenery.
-
480.
>Apparently Ditzy got roped into helping out in the kitchen and you're both all too familiar and understanding how hard it is to get out of it.
-
481.
>One little 'grab that plate for me' turns into prepping another batch of treats turns to washing dishes turns to sweeping and mopping the floor.
-
482.
>And if you strain your ears just enough you can hear Applebloom giving Ditzy some instructions on making Apple pies.
-
483.
>You and Applejack sit on the porch legs dangling off the edge as you enjoy the shade provided by the awning.
-
484.
>"Applejack tells me ya gone and put Ol'Slide on permanent retirement,"Granny Smith starts cracking up as she rocks in her chair on the porch.
-
485.
"It caught me off guard. What else was I supposed to do."
-
486.
>Granny Smith has a laugh to herself.
-
487.
>"Gotta admit Ah ain't ever seen Anon move so fast."
-
488.
"So what's next after all that?"
-
489.
>"Actually Anon, your part is pretty much done, me and Big Mac can handle the hauling."
-
490.
"Oh? You have the time?"
-
491.
>"What do you think Granny? About noon or so?"
-
492.
>"That's what the Sun is tellin' me."
-
493.
>"Now Anon, you're welcome to stick around and get some extra bits in your pocket."
-
494.
>"Applejack you already know he's gonna take his money and run," Granny has an intoxicating cackle.
-
495.
>She gets down from her rocking chair, "lemme get your payment Anon so you can start your county break."
-
496.
>You nod and then lean closer to Applejack for a moment.
-
497.
"What's a county break?"
-
498.
>"Ya ever do work on a big project that could take days, but ya decide take a small break and the break ends up being the rest of the day?"
-
499.
"I can relate."
-
500.
>"That's a county break for ya."
-
501.
"And is Ol'Slide just a snake that's been here forever?"
-
502.
>She throws her head back laughing, "Nah silly, it's just a nickname we give snakes. Keep up, slowpoke."
-
503.
"I remember you saying Ol Slide was nothing to worry about."
-
504.
>"They are few and far between out here, it's why Ah was hectic when ya ran into one today. But ya handled yourself."
-
505.
-
506.
-
507.
-
508.
-
509.
"True, I'm just glad I recognized him in time."
-
510.
>"We're both fortunate you didn't get bit," Applejack replied with a nervous chuckle.
-
511.
>Ditzy joins you on the porch with a bag full of goodies on her wing and a smile on her face.
-
512.
"What have we here?"
-
513.
>"Apple muffins~"
-
514.
> Your brain recalls how perfect Ditzy's chocolate chip muffins were.
-
515.
>You turn straight to Applejack.
-
516.
"Granny needs to hurry up with my money," you say playfully.
-
517.
>"Careful Anon, there's always a slicker one out there."
-
518.
>She subtly uses her eyes to point to Ditzy. "And ya might get bit if you ain't careful."
-
519.
"Uh-huh."
-
520.
>"What are y'all doing after this?" Applejack raises her voice enough for Ditzy to hear.
-
521.
"It's the weekend, you already know what's gonna happen."
-
522.
>"Oh y'all ain't gonna have a quiet night to yourselves?"
-
523.
>You roll your eyes, letting her implication slide.
-
524.
"You're invited to join that party, it's rare you hang out with me and the gang during the weekends."
-
525.
>"Thank ya kindly, but Ah gotta be up in the morning."
-
526.
"Seriously? Do you ever have a day off?"
-
527.
>"Yeah, tomorrow."
-
528.
"And you're willingly choosing to wake up early?"
-
529.
>"Five in the morning to be exact." She says with a shrug.
-
530.
"You're a psychopath."
-
531.
-
532.
End of Part 4
by Jchallo8
by Jchallo8
by Jchallo8
by Jchallo8
by Jchallo8