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Description

Outside the moderately sized Appleloosa home, the wind howled and the rain pound against the roof. The glass in the windows shook in their frames as if the whole building was going to fall apart. But it endured. Sunstreak soaked in the tub and grimaced at the sounds of his old crummy house being shaken to its foundation and making a mental list of all the things he’s going to need to repair and replace once this storm is over. Just one more thing to add to his ever growing lists. As much as the disgruntled pegasus grumbled and complained, he liked lists. It meant there was always something else to do, something to keep his hands busy and his mind focused on something productive, even if it was frivolous and unimportant. It was better than nothing. He hated nothing more than to be left with nothing but silence. That was probably the worst part of his prison sentence.

After finishing his bath and toweling off, Sunstreak changed into some warm casual clothes and headed back into the living room area. For a brief moment, he was unwillingly housing two guests under his roof. In the short time Annie and Midnight have been here, they have taken it upon themselves to make themselves quite at home, currently curled up together on the couch watching what appeared to be a movie. Not wanting to interrupt, Sunstreak quietly came up behind the couch, only to see a pair of scandalously dressed stallions dancing seductively on the screen.

Sunstreak: *fluffs up* ….. What in Tartarus are you watching?!

Annie: *jumps and looks back at him* …… Mystic Mike? Just a stripper movie. *pats the couch* Wanna watch?

Sunstreak: Uh-.. No! Better question: Why?!

Annie: Well, Las Pegasus was part of our trip, and I promised Midnight to take her to the strip club my brother dances in… But since she’s sick, I thought this would be a fun replacement for that.~

Sunstreak: ….. Your brother dances at a strip club now? I thought he was a guard…

Annie: Oh, hehehe! I have another brother! Well, half-brother. He’s the dancer.

Midnight: And he’s a total hunk from the pictures she showed me! Too bad he’s gay, but hey, I was just looking at the merchandize, wasn’t gonna touch it or anything~

Sunstreak: I.. didn’t need to know any of this. *rubs his temple* I do hope you enjoy your movie, I will not interrupt your… bonding time.

Midnight: *snickers* Oh I plan on it~ Oh! And Thank you for the medicine, I’m already feeling way better! I knew you had a soft side~

Sunstreak: *snorts* Good.. the sooner you feel better, the sooner you can get off my couch… *goes into the kitchen*

Midnight: *blinks before whispering to Annie* ….I think he’s warming up to me~

Annie: *whispers back* I know, right? He’s getting nicer in his wording….. A little. Snrk!

Midnight: We must be good influences on him~ Go us! *wiggles an arm out of her burrito to fist bump Annie*

Annie: *smirks and fist bumps* We were bound to rub off on him sooner or later.~ *ears perk* Oh! *turns around and looks over the couch* By the way, before you disappear into your room, I made you some breakfast! *points to a covered plate on the table*

Sunstreak: *ears perk before uncovering the plate* ... I see. Thank you. *before taking a seat to eat*

Annie: *smiles and sits back down* And another point for us, hmhmhm..!~

Midnight: *pats Annie’s arms* Ssh! It’s getting to the good part!

Annie: You said that about the other scenes too, what makes this one- *WHINNIES* Oh my!

Midnight: See? I told you~

Annie: Mmhmmm! *face is beet red*

Sunstreak: *grimaces and tries to ignore them as he eats*

Annie: *purrs* It’s not Las Pegasus, but this works too.~ *looks at Midnight* Maybe we can go there for your birthday.

Midnight: Ooh~ That would be fun, hmhmhm! Maybe we can bring some friends from college and make a trip out of it. Then they can all meet your brother~ *eyebrow waggle*

Annie: *cringes* That sounds horrible, heheheh… Benny is sweet and all, but he’s also a bit too protective….. And hits on every stallion he meets. *pouts*

Midnight: That would make it even more funny! Imagine Cullen’s face~

Annie: ………. *griiiiiins* Now that’s just evil… I like the way you think.~

Midnight: Keheheh~ And because it will be my birthday, he can’t say no!

Annie: If he tries to back out of it, I’ll convince him. As annoying as he is, if it’s your birthday wish I think I can deal with him for a while. *pets Midnight’s head and checks her temperature*

Sunstreak: *stands up and puts his plate in the sink* Huh.. forcing your friends into awkward, demeaning situations doesn’t seem to be very fun to me. But to each their own, I suppose.. Food was quite good, thank you.

Annie: *smirks* No problem.~ ….. Would you wanna come on the trip too? You’d probably be the only one safe from Ben, he doesn’t like red-heads.~ Heheheh!

Sunstreak: *grimaces* It’s not red, it’s burgundy.. And given who he is and his overprotective relationship with you, I don’t think that would be a very smart idea..

Annie: If you say so, hmhm. He’s crazy, but he’s not violent or anything. He’d just have me in a headlock and say…… “Don’t even think about it, buster, this is my little baby sister, she’s off limits!”

Sunstreak: *snorts* I doubt he could really stop me… If you need anything else, I’ll be in the back room. Enjoy your.. movie, I suppose…

Midnight: *gives Annie a side eye* Weeee plan on it, ehehe...

Annie: More dancers and thick cake for us. Snrk!

Midnight: *staaaares at Annie, waiting for Sunstreak to leave the room* …… You didn’t catch that, did you?

Annie: *looks at Midnight* Hm? Catch what?

Midnight: *waving her hand towards where Sunstreak was standing* That! About not caring what your brother had to say! He didn’t deny anything-- Oh why do I bother? You both are helpless. You make this no fun for me.. *pouts and sips her tea*

Annie: *raises an eyebrow* What are you talking about? Heheh, I doubt he’d care what Benny has to say, Ben is…. Ben! What else could he have…… meant, by……. *ears twitch as she thinks* …… Oh..! Oh!

Midnight: See what I mean! He could have said “Yeah right, like that would ever happen” or “Like I’d ever even try, blah blah blah” but he didn’t.. *in a mocking voice*

Annie: M-maybe he just meant like, because he needs the potion from me, heheheh. I think you’re reading into it too much..~ *turns back to the movie*

Midnight: *raises an eyebrow* Really? Because that’s not what it sounds like to me.

Annie: ……… Sounds like you’re ready to take another dose of cough syrup now.

Midnight: *ears fold back* Weeeeeeeeh! You’re just mad because I’m right! *pouts*

Annie: *chuckles* I’m just thinking about your health.~ It must be time for more. *pets her head* You want some tea with honey to soothe the taste?

Midnight: Yeah, tea sounds nice.. Mine is already cold.. *hands Annie her tea cup*

Annie: *takes it* I’ll make sure it’s hotter this time, hmhm. *heads into the kitchen*

Making more tea over the stove, Annie kept her back to the couch as she waited for the water to boil. Tapping her claws on the counter she thought over what Midnight pointed out, trying to make sense out of it. She rolled her eyes a bit, it had to just be in Midnight’s head. Yet at the same, the sound of Sunstreak’s statement made Annie’s cheeks turn a light shade of pink. Whether it was from frustration, confusion, or otherwise, she wasn’t sure.

A light scraping sound pulled her out of her thoughts. Her ears perked and swiveled, thumping noises coming from the other end of the house, as well as some disgruntled words from Sunstreak. What was he doing back there? Was he in pain?

Annie: *snorts* Dummy probably busted a stitch.. *adds honey to Midnight’s tea before walking back to the couch* I’ll be right back, I think he popped one of his stitches back there..

Midnight: *raises an eyebrow* Oh really? I mean, if you wanted some privacy, you could have just asked~

Annie: *pouts* That’s not what- Hrmm…. I’ll just make sure he didn’t hurt himself. *heads for the back room, tail fluffed out*

Midnight: Be sure to kiss it and make it feel better~ Kehehehe!

Annie: *peaks into the back room, keeping quiet to see what Sunstreak was doing* …….

The spare room was entirely taped off, the furniture and floor covered with a protective plastic with buckets of paint, rollers, pans and various other tools used to renovate an interior. Sunstreak was grumbling and trying to move a rather large covered cabinet away from the wall, bitterly cursing and grunting under his breath to keep noise to a minimum.

Sunstreak: Worthless… hunk…. Of junk! I swear I’ll turn you into bloody firewood, you termite infested sack of sawdust! *kicks the cabinet*

Annie: *quietly steps in behind him* Want some help?

Sunstreak: *jumps and fluffs up, his face a little red* Hrk! A-Annie! Sun Goddess watch over me.. I didn’t hear you come in… *letting out a sigh*

Annie: *smirks and looks at the cabinet* I heard you from the kitchen and thought you pulled something in your back… With how much you’re struggling, that might happen… I could help you move it, if you want.

Sunstreak: *rubs his shoulder* I appreciate the gesture but… *looks Annie up and down* … I’m afraid you might not be much help. You can’t expect a sapling to move an oak tree.. *takes Annie’s skinny arm and wiggles it back and forth*

Annie: *face turns red* Ah- I can still help! *takes her arm back* My magic can help move this no problem. Better than letting these chicken legs do all the work.. *taps his shin with her hoof*

Sunstreak: *smirks* My chicken legs are doing just fine so far.. This particular piece of furniture is just being stubborn. I don’t believe it’s been moved since the house was built 50 some years ago--

Annie: *cheeks puffed out and red as her horn glows, the cabinet scooting on the floor bit by bit* Hrmmmmm…!

Sunstreak: -- And at this point I’m afraid to see what’s behind……. It… Now you are just showing off. *folds his arms*

Annie: *gives him side eye* You going to help or what..?! *straining*

Sunstreak: *ears perk before quickly getting behind the cabinet and pushing* Mmmph! I thought you were perfectly capable of moving it on your own, hehehe~ I told you, this thing must be made of solid oak!

Annie: In my defence, I never said I could-Hnng… Do it alone..! *lets out a heavy breath as she lets go* Ugh, that’s far enough..! Phew!

Sunstreak: *nods and wipes the sweat off his forehead* Quite good indeed. Thank you for your magical assistance. *as he walks around the cabinet and inspects the floor and wall*

Annie: No problem, heheh…! Oof… Kinda wish I kept my necklace now, heh… *waves her hand* Least it’s probably being put to more use with Rosie than with me though.. Moving furniture isn’t a need.

Sunstreak: *pokes his head out from behind the cabinet* Not unless you want to get into house renovation or work for a moving company.. But you don’t seem like a manual labor type of mare..~ *with a grin*

Annie: *pouts* I am where it counts, heheh. …… Mostly gathering plants on hikes, but still! *walks over to the cabinet, giving it a small kick* Stupid hunk of firewood…

Sunstreak: Hmhmhm, if you like it so much, you can have it~ I haven’t decided what I’ll be using this room for yet, so it may not fit when it’s all said and done.

Annie: *looks it over* Well, it could be a bookshelf if you feel like turning this one into a study… Or maybe a game shelf! For like, making it a stallion-cave or something.

Sunstreak: Hmm.. I don’t really have time to play video games. And I already have a home office in the works. As well as an at home gym that still needs to be finished. The spare bedroom and kitchen are finished, which you have already been acquainted with, as well as both bathrooms and the master bedroom. *pointing in the direction of each room as he lists them off* All that is left really is the living area, the hallways… and I suppose the exterior if I ever get around to it..

Annie: *raises an eyebrow* …… With all THAT going on, you could probably use a game room… It’d be fun, maybe invite some stallion friends over, woop their butts at Pony Kart, heheheh.~ You’d probably enjoy it sometimes.

Sunstreak: *ear twitches and looks to the side* Ah yes.. A jolly day with the old chaps. Once I actually get some stallion friends I’ll be sure to do that.

Annie: *ears perk* Ah. …. Well, what about Ace? He’s your friend, isn’t he..?

Sunstreak: I haven’t really spoken to him since.. the last time I saw him. I can only assume his opinion of me has greatly diminished after I was arrested and put in jail. I know, surprising.. *voice dripping with sarcasm as he scowls*

Annie: Have you tried calling him or anything since you got out? Because, there’s a saying about assuming things.~ *smirks*

Sunstreak: Oh? And what’s that?

Annie: Assuming, makes an “ass” out of “U”. *tail wags*

Sunstreak: *raises an eyebrow* .. Oh I get it, Ass-U-Me.. Clever.. Though I do believe that’s the first time I’ve heard your swear.

Annie: *snorts* I have no problem saying that word. I’ve known quite a few asses….. And mules. *pouts*

Sunstreak: Another play on words. Yes, I do believe I remember you telling me about a certain mule you’ve been seeing as of late. Some shifty carnival worker that works with Cindy.. *scoffs*

Annie: Yeah.. He was really sweet, and treated me well for how casual we were…. I don’t know what happened to change his mind about us, but I know Danny said something to make it happen.. *muzzle scrunches* He always sticks his two-face into my business.. I hate it..! What gives him the right…?! *smoke flows from her snout*

Sunstreak: *ears perk* ….I see, so you must have really liked him to be so worked up over it.. *as he preps his paint roller*

Annie: Yeah! ….. I mean, maybe? He was one of the few guys who didn’t just want me around as a booty call… But the carnival he works in, the fact he is okay with that just being the best he can ever do in life..? It felt very dragging…… Kinda like I was just settling..

Sunstreak: *starts painting the wall* I’m certain you can do better than just “settling”.. A stallion like that has no ambition for a better life, nor wants to put effort into making it so. They just whine and complain about how horrible everything is but never do a thing about it.

Annie: That’s what a lot of the ponies in that carnival do… And Danny’s going to turn into one of them now.. *groans* If he was as good at his job as he was at meddling in my life, he’d still be a guard.. *snorts* Dummy..

Sunstreak: *ears perk* Oh, did he get fired? … Hmmm, how unfortunate~ *trying not to grin*

Annie: ….. Your tail is wiggling.

Sunstreak: Blasted thing has a mind of its own.. But you must see the terrible sense of karma I’m seeing? I’m allowed to find a little enjoyment in the brutal irony of this, am I not? He ruined my life with his meddling, and in turn, he ruined his own.

Annie: *rolls her eyes and smirks a little* I don’t know about karma, but hey, you’re smiling, heheh.. All I know is he did several things wrong, so they booted him out. *sits next to some of the boxes* And now he’s having to settle in that carnival with Singe as a performer.. They make a cute couple, but… There’s better things he could be doing..

Sunstreak: *mumbles, but loud enough for Annie to hear* Maybe they should put him in a cage and have him on display..

Annie: *pouts* Hey!

Sunstreak: *fluffs up and clears his throat* Ahem! As you were saying, I am in complete agreement with you, of course. *waving his hand*

Annie: *shakes her head at him* Mmhmmm. That’s what I thought.. *chuckles a bit and looks around the room* Hmmm….

Sunstreak: …… This very well could be a blessing in disguise, you know.

Annie: *ears perk* How do you figure?

Sunstreak: I mean, what would happen if you actually decided to stay with this stallion. Sure he is nice and sweet, probably romantic and says all the right things... but so is any stallion in the beginning of a relationship. By the time you stay with him long enough to really get to know what he is REALLY like, it’s already too late to back out and you are stuck being the wife of a carnival worker and giving up all your dreams.

Annie: Huh…. You’re probably right… Goddess knows I wouldn’t be able to do any work if I was traveling all the time in a cramped space.. Or be able to test my potions, however many other workers were there… *looks to the side* So many possible test subjects, hmhmhm..~ *sighs* It’s probably better this way though..

Sunstreak: Or be able to fund said experimental potions. Ingredients aren’t cheap and you should really charge more if some products you have to go out of the country to get… like the ones for my sleeping draft that you so recklessly broke.. *stares at her over his shoulder*

Annie: Heheheh, okaaaaaay, I get it, I’ll be more careful next time, heheh! I learned my lesson, you don’t have to rub it in. I thought you hated repeating yourself.~

Sunstreak: Hmhmhm, that I do, but I also find that repetition helps ponies remember. Though I have faith you won’t have any trouble forgetting.

Annie: I never do when it comes to my work, and I take pride in that.~ I’ll get the ingredients during Hearth’s Warming, so there won’t be any trouble, I promise. *waits until his back was turned again, then starts snooping through the boxes*

Sunstreak: I’ll hold you to that~

Annie: *roots through items before letting out a squeal* EEEEEEEEEEEE!!! SO CUTE!!!

Sunstreak: *fluffs up and turns to look* Huh-- Hey! What are you doing there? Those don’t belong to you.

Annie: *looks up at him with round shiny eyes and holds up a picture of him as a small colt* But you look so cuuuuute! You’re actually smiling too! And you still have baby feathers, heehee!!!

Sunstreak: *face turns pink* Ugh.. Hrmm, of course I did. You are ridiculous.. Put it back before you break something.. *looks away and pouts*

Annie: No way, I found gold in here, I wanna see what else you have! *sets the picture down and keeps looking* Oh. My. Goddesses. *holds up a baby picture* You looked so FAT!!!

Sunstreak: *face turns bright red* That’s it! Get out! Shoo! *threatens her with a paint roller*

Annie: But look at your chunky legs! *keeps looking through the box* What else is in here?!

Sunstreak: None of your concern, that is what is in the-- No no, not the photo album! Oh Sun Goddess watch over me... *rubs his face with a groan*

Annie: *flipping through pictures* Aaaaaw, little baby Sunstreeeeeak! And little Rosie too! So flipping cute! *looks back at him, then at the photos* Oh how the smile just disappeared.. Snrk! *keeps looking* Oooh, so that’s your mom and dad. They seem like a nice couple, heheh! …….. Your dad looks a little scary though… *mumbles, but he can still hear* Must be where the scowl came from..

Sunstreak: Hey!

Annie: You’re only mad cuz it’s true! Heheheh.~ *turns another page, ears perking up* Who’s this with you and Rosie?

Sunstreak: *puts down the roller and takes a seat on the ground next to Annie* Let's see….. Ah, that would be my grandmother, on my father’s side.

Annie: Oooh… She’s very pretty.~ I can see where you and Rosie get that cute diamond mark from.~

Sunstreak: *blushes a bit at the “cute” remark* Hrmm.. She was very beautiful and refined. Always dressed in fine clothing and glamorous, sparkly jewelry. Rose always used to say she looked like a princess. And she sort of acted like it too, hmhmhm. Even if she really couldn’t afford it all, it’s not like anyone could really stop her. She was stern and headstrong, but also very kind and caring, I suppose like any grandparent..

Annie: *smiles and purrs a bit* She sounds amazing, heheh.~ Have you talked to her at all recently since you were let out?

Sunstreak: *ears fold back* … No, she died when I was 13. This was probably one of the last photos I took with her.

Annie: *fluffs a little* O-oh, I’m so sorry…! I didn’t….. *ears droop back* … Did she get sick..?

Sunstreak: *shakes his head* No, she was murdered. And then robbed on the street for a few pieces of jewelry and a purse full of 30 measly bits..

Annie: Goddesses… Wh-who could do something like that, she wasn’t hurting anypony…!

Sunstreak: *snorts* When ponies are desperate, they can do terrible things. Although I hardly considered that.. Thing I saw a pony. *grimaces, the same face he makes when Annie uses her nocturnal eyes*

Annie: *ears twitch a bit* ….. It was a pony like me, wasn’t it…?

Sunstreak: *ears perk* A hybrid you mean? Yes, with black eyes, blood soaked teeth and claws, he looked more like a monster than a pony.. But like you, no.. You aren’t a cold blooded murderer..

Annie: Who-.... What did it..? You speak like you were there for it… *winces a bit*

Sunstreak: I was there. We were at the dock back in Vanhoover. Since both of my parents were working full time, I spent most of my time after school with my grandmother. It was a beautiful, warm sunny day and she couldn’t have me stay inside on such a day… I wish we had. I remember getting lost and looking for her when I heard the scream. By the time I got there, she was already dead and I saw whoever did it look back at me before he jumped into the water..

Annie: *ears perk* The water….. So it was a seapony… Like Mako… *looks to the side a bit* …. Kind of explains a few things….

Sunstreak: *snorts* Are you going to psychoanalyze me now? I already have a therapist for that.. For your information, my disdain for hybrids started well before that day.. Likely my father’s influence really. It was always a few harmless jokes or a few back handed comments about the ponies he worked with.. But after my grandmother died, it became more of a feud. He and my uncle both were furious, it was probably the first time they actually got along in years.. Likely the last time too.

Annie: *ears droop back* I’m sorry…. She sounds like an amazing mare.. She didn’t deserve that…

Sunstreak: *ears twitch and looks at Annie* I’m sorry as well.. It’s just a sensitive subject. That.. malice wasn’t directed at you in any way. I was just really close with her… She practically raised me and then she was just gone..

Annie: ……….. *sits up and scoots in front of him on her knees before leaning forward to hug him*

Sunstreak: *tense up slightly before wrapping his arms around Annie and hugging her back* ….

Annie: *purrs once he relaxed more* What was her name..?

Sunstreak: .. Clementine.. Clementine Quartz.

Annie: Hmhm, that’s a very nice name.~ *holds the hug for a bit longer before letting go* Sorry, heheh…. Just looked like you could use a hug..~ *smiles*

Sunstreak: *smiles back* I think I did, thank you..~ ……. Oops.. *looking at the front of Annie, now covered with wet paint* …. I should have…… uh.. You really have yourself to blame.

Annie: Huh? *looks down* O-oh! Heheheh, you’re just a sloppy painter, heheh!

Sunstreak: Hence why I wear these crappy clothes. I don’t normally adorn myself with such rubbish.. Although, that isn’t a bad color on you~ *as he wipes a little paint on Annie’s cheek*

Annie: ACK! Hey! *looks at the paint can before dipping her hand in it and placing it on his face* You could use a new paint job yourself, it looks nice.~

Sunstreak: Hey! Don’t waste the paint, hehehe. I only have so much of it. *grabbing her wrist* I just got out of the shower too… though it seems you’ll be needing one next.. *getting paint in her hair and on her tail*

Annie: EEE! Not the hair! *staaaaares him down* I will take one…. After I finish with your new makeup.. *smears the paint on his forehead and hair*

Sunstreak: *grabs her other wrist and holds them both in one hand* You are such a child, hmhmhm! You are going to track paint all over the house! ….. *dips a finger in the paint can and lightly paints a diamond on Annie’s forehead* There! Now you have that cute diamond marking you were talking about~ *with a smirk*

Annie: *fluffs up but grins* Aaaw, so sweet, you want me to match.~ Heheheheh!

Sunstreak: You were the one who brought it up, not I. I think you were just envious~ And now you don’t have to be….. I feel.. Better. Much grosser and I feel the paint drying in my fur, but.. Better. Thank you for that~ *with a soft purr*

Annie: *smiles back* Happy to help, heheheh.~ *reaches and wipes off some of the paint on his cheeks* Sorry about that, heheh. Paint on old wounds, not my smartest idea…

Sunstreak: *reaches and gently touches Annie’s hand* It doesn’t hurt. Now if you got it in my eyes, we would be having some words.

Annie: Snrk! Glad that didn’t happen then, heheh.~ …….. *feels he still has her hand and fluffs up more*

Sunstreak: *reaches for the paper towels and uses one to wipe off Annie’s hand he was holding* I’m sure I still would have forgiven you… at some point. If I ended up becoming blind, I might take a little longer~

Annie: *smirks* Ah, but you’d still forgive me. I knew you liked me a little.~ *sticks her tongue at him*

Sunstreak: The alternative would be to never speak with you again, and frankly I’d rather be blind than do that.

Annie: ………. *cheeks turn pink and stares at him*

Sunstreak: *looks up* What? No witty come back? …… *sees her face and blushes a little* What? Was it something I said?

Annie: Uh- *looks to the side* No, no you are fine. *pulls her hand away and grabs some paper towels* B-but you should still get that paint off your scar, I don’t want you taking chances like that and end up getting an infection, or hurting yourself worse. *gently rubs off the paint on his face*

Sunstreak: I can use soap and water when I’m no longer hazardous to my wood floor.. *gently runs his fingers through Annie’s hair* … This will be a nightmare to get clean, why do you keep it so long? I’m not complaining, it’s beautiful, but isn’t it heavy? Not to mention a working hazard..

Annie: *blushes a bit but smiles* Heheh, you’re going to think it’s dumb… But, me and Danny made this little pact when we were little that we’d grow our hair out together. Meet up again we were old and grey and see how long we could get it. He’s had to cut his for Basic training, so… I guess I’m in the lead right now. Besides, I’ve only set my hair on fire……. 6 times, that’s not too bad.

Sunstreak: *raises an eyebrow* …. You are not allowed in my plant unless it’s cut or in a hair net.. Too many moving machine parts that would rip your scalp clean off.. I can’t imagine how much you spend on shampoo.. *holding her hair out*

Annie: Snrk, you should be more worried about how much of YOUR shampoo will be gone after I’m done showering..

Sunstreak: *groans* I suppose I can just take another trip to the store, I know how worried you were about me this morning~ *grins*

Annie: *pouts at him* I think I’m allowed to be worried at the thought of your wings catching on the wind and you flying off like a stray umbrella.. *boops his nose*

Sunstreak: *sticks his tongue out a bit* Hmm? How so? What gives you the exclusive right? *teasingly*

Annie: *face turns red* Because I care about you, stupid! *fluffs at him to look bigger*

Sunstreak: *fluffs up and stares at her with wide eyes* …. I see. I.. *looks to the side, cheeks getting pink* … Then the feeling is mutual.

Annie: *tail twitches a bit* Well, good… I was kidding, heheh. I won’t hog your shampoo, if that’s what it takes to keep you indoors. *pets down her feathers*

Sunstreak: *pets down his feathers* .. I don’t mind making the extra trip while you are here to make your stay more comfortable. It’s my own fault for not planning more ahead.. I realize you would rather be on your backpacking adventure or be in Los Pegasus right now…

Annie: *tilts her head and thinks on it* Mmmm…. That was the plan, but….. I’m not that disappointed, honestly. I’m still having fun, albeit messy, hehehe. *tugs at her paint covered shirt* So, I’d still call this a good adventure. The best ones aren’t always planned.~

Sunstreak: *ears perk* Hmm, wise words from a clever mare. I’ll try to remember them~

Annie: *smirks* You better, or I’ll keep repeating it til you do, heheh! *tail wags behind her*

Sunstreak: *ears spring up before quickly reaching and grabbing her tail* Wet paint, wet paint!

Annie: Huh- Aaaah!~ *face turns red* S-sorry, sorry!

Sunstreak: *stares at her with wide eyes* …. Snrk! Hahahaha!

Annie: Hrmmmm! Sh-shut up, it’s sensitive to touch! *tail wriggles in his hand and twitches* Hnnn…

Sunstreak: *lets go* Hmhmhm, I’ll keep that in mind~ Perhaps you should take a shower now before we end up making any more messes.. *looks to the side*

Annie: *keeps her tail curled around her* Okaaaaay, I’ll go get clean, hehehe.. *stands up* But you better not try moving that cabinet again by yourself while I do. You’ll reopen your back injuries even more.. *holds out her hand to help him up*

Sunstreak: *takes her hand and stands up* Hmhmhm, I wouldn’t dream of it. I still have to finish painting the room first anyways.

Annie: *nods* Good, heheh. I’ll leave you to your painting then.~ *turns to leave the room, but baps his face with her tail before going*

Sunstreak: *pouts but smiles a bit* I’ll be here if you need anything. *as he wipes off his hands and starts putting the pictures away*
--------------------------

Sweet memories are made of moments like these, and Annie and Sunstreak are getting to know each other a little more~ Be sure the join the Capricorn Reef discord server to discuss about the boards! discord.gg/QDMf3hj

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Description

Outside the moderately sized Appleloosa home, the wind howled and the rain pound against the roof. The glass in the windows shook in their frames as if the whole building was going to fall apart. But it endured. Sunstreak soaked in the tub and grimaced at the sounds of his old crummy house being shaken to its foundation and making a mental list of all the things he’s going to need to repair and replace once this storm is over. Just one more thing to add to his ever growing lists. As much as the disgruntled pegasus grumbled and complained, he liked lists. It meant there was always something else to do, something to keep his hands busy and his mind focused on something productive, even if it was frivolous and unimportant. It was better than nothing. He hated nothing more than to be left with nothing but silence. That was probably the worst part of his prison sentence.

After finishing his bath and toweling off, Sunstreak changed into some warm casual clothes and headed back into the living room area. For a brief moment, he was unwillingly housing two guests under his roof. In the short time Annie and Midnight have been here, they have taken it upon themselves to make themselves quite at home, currently curled up together on the couch watching what appeared to be a movie. Not wanting to interrupt, Sunstreak quietly came up behind the couch, only to see a pair of scandalously dressed stallions dancing seductively on the screen.

Sunstreak: *fluffs up* ….. What in Tartarus are you watching?!

Annie: *jumps and looks back at him* …… Mystic Mike? Just a stripper movie. *pats the couch* Wanna watch?

Sunstreak: Uh-.. No! Better question: Why?!

Annie: Well, Las Pegasus was part of our trip, and I promised Midnight to take her to the strip club my brother dances in… But since she’s sick, I thought this would be a fun replacement for that.~

Sunstreak: ….. Your brother dances at a strip club now? I thought he was a guard…

Annie: Oh, hehehe! I have another brother! Well, half-brother. He’s the dancer.

Midnight: And he’s a total hunk from the pictures she showed me! Too bad he’s gay, but hey, I was just looking at the merchandize, wasn’t gonna touch it or anything~

Sunstreak: I.. didn’t need to know any of this. *rubs his temple* I do hope you enjoy your movie, I will not interrupt your… bonding time.

Midnight: *snickers* Oh I plan on it~ Oh! And Thank you for the medicine, I’m already feeling way better! I knew you had a soft side~

Sunstreak: *snorts* Good.. the sooner you feel better, the sooner you can get off my couch… *goes into the kitchen*

Midnight: *blinks before whispering to Annie* ….I think he’s warming up to me~

Annie: *whispers back* I know, right? He’s getting nicer in his wording….. A little. Snrk!

Midnight: We must be good influences on him~ Go us! *wiggles an arm out of her burrito to fist bump Annie*

Annie: *smirks and fist bumps* We were bound to rub off on him sooner or later.~ *ears perk* Oh! *turns around and looks over the couch* By the way, before you disappear into your room, I made you some breakfast! *points to a covered plate on the table*

Sunstreak: *ears perk before uncovering the plate* ... I see. Thank you. *before taking a seat to eat*

Annie: *smiles and sits back down* And another point for us, hmhmhm..!~

Midnight: *pats Annie’s arms* Ssh! It’s getting to the good part!

Annie: You said that about the other scenes too, what makes this one- *WHINNIES* Oh my!

Midnight: See? I told you~

Annie: Mmhmmm! *face is beet red*

Sunstreak: *grimaces and tries to ignore them as he eats*

Annie: *purrs* It’s not Las Pegasus, but this works too.~ *looks at Midnight* Maybe we can go there for your birthday.

Midnight: Ooh~ That would be fun, hmhmhm! Maybe we can bring some friends from college and make a trip out of it. Then they can all meet your brother~ *eyebrow waggle*

Annie: *cringes* That sounds horrible, heheheh… Benny is sweet and all, but he’s also a bit too protective….. And hits on every stallion he meets. *pouts*

Midnight: That would make it even more funny! Imagine Cullen’s face~

Annie: ………. *griiiiiins* Now that’s just evil… I like the way you think.~

Midnight: Keheheh~ And because it will be my birthday, he can’t say no!

Annie: If he tries to back out of it, I’ll convince him. As annoying as he is, if it’s your birthday wish I think I can deal with him for a while. *pets Midnight’s head and checks her temperature*

Sunstreak: *stands up and puts his plate in the sink* Huh.. forcing your friends into awkward, demeaning situations doesn’t seem to be very fun to me. But to each their own, I suppose.. Food was quite good, thank you.

Annie: *smirks* No problem.~ ….. Would you wanna come on the trip too? You’d probably be the only one safe from Ben, he doesn’t like red-heads.~ Heheheh!

Sunstreak: *grimaces* It’s not red, it’s burgundy.. And given who he is and his overprotective relationship with you, I don’t think that would be a very smart idea..

Annie: If you say so, hmhm. He’s crazy, but he’s not violent or anything. He’d just have me in a headlock and say…… “Don’t even think about it, buster, this is my little baby sister, she’s off limits!”

Sunstreak: *snorts* I doubt he could really stop me… If you need anything else, I’ll be in the back room. Enjoy your.. movie, I suppose…

Midnight: *gives Annie a side eye* Weeee plan on it, ehehe...

Annie: More dancers and thick cake for us. Snrk!

Midnight: *staaaares at Annie, waiting for Sunstreak to leave the room* …… You didn’t catch that, did you?

Annie: *looks at Midnight* Hm? Catch what?

Midnight: *waving her hand towards where Sunstreak was standing* That! About not caring what your brother had to say! He didn’t deny anything-- Oh why do I bother? You both are helpless. You make this no fun for me.. *pouts and sips her tea*

Annie: *raises an eyebrow* What are you talking about? Heheh, I doubt he’d care what Benny has to say, Ben is…. Ben! What else could he have…… meant, by……. *ears twitch as she thinks* …… Oh..! Oh!

Midnight: See what I mean! He could have said “Yeah right, like that would ever happen” or “Like I’d ever even try, blah blah blah” but he didn’t.. *in a mocking voice*

Annie: M-maybe he just meant like, because he needs the potion from me, heheheh. I think you’re reading into it too much..~ *turns back to the movie*

Midnight: *raises an eyebrow* Really? Because that’s not what it sounds like to me.

Annie: ……… Sounds like you’re ready to take another dose of cough syrup now.

Midnight: *ears fold back* Weeeeeeeeh! You’re just mad because I’m right! *pouts*

Annie: *chuckles* I’m just thinking about your health.~ It must be time for more. *pets her head* You want some tea with honey to soothe the taste?

Midnight: Yeah, tea sounds nice.. Mine is already cold.. *hands Annie her tea cup*

Annie: *takes it* I’ll make sure it’s hotter this time, hmhm. *heads into the kitchen*

Making more tea over the stove, Annie kept her back to the couch as she waited for the water to boil. Tapping her claws on the counter she thought over what Midnight pointed out, trying to make sense out of it. She rolled her eyes a bit, it had to just be in Midnight’s head. Yet at the same, the sound of Sunstreak’s statement made Annie’s cheeks turn a light shade of pink. Whether it was from frustration, confusion, or otherwise, she wasn’t sure.

A light scraping sound pulled her out of her thoughts. Her ears perked and swiveled, thumping noises coming from the other end of the house, as well as some disgruntled words from Sunstreak. What was he doing back there? Was he in pain?

Annie: *snorts* Dummy probably busted a stitch.. *adds honey to Midnight’s tea before walking back to the couch* I’ll be right back, I think he popped one of his stitches back there..

Midnight: *raises an eyebrow* Oh really? I mean, if you wanted some privacy, you could have just asked~

Annie: *pouts* That’s not what- Hrmm…. I’ll just make sure he didn’t hurt himself. *heads for the back room, tail fluffed out*

Midnight: Be sure to kiss it and make it feel better~ Kehehehe!

Annie: *peaks into the back room, keeping quiet to see what Sunstreak was doing* …….

The spare room was entirely taped off, the furniture and floor covered with a protective plastic with buckets of paint, rollers, pans and various other tools used to renovate an interior. Sunstreak was grumbling and trying to move a rather large covered cabinet away from the wall, bitterly cursing and grunting under his breath to keep noise to a minimum.

Sunstreak: Worthless… hunk…. Of junk! I swear I’ll turn you into bloody firewood, you termite infested sack of sawdust! *kicks the cabinet*

Annie: *quietly steps in behind him* Want some help?

Sunstreak: *jumps and fluffs up, his face a little red* Hrk! A-Annie! Sun Goddess watch over me.. I didn’t hear you come in… *letting out a sigh*

Annie: *smirks and looks at the cabinet* I heard you from the kitchen and thought you pulled something in your back… With how much you’re struggling, that might happen… I could help you move it, if you want.

Sunstreak: *rubs his shoulder* I appreciate the gesture but… *looks Annie up and down* … I’m afraid you might not be much help. You can’t expect a sapling to move an oak tree.. *takes Annie’s skinny arm and wiggles it back and forth*

Annie: *face turns red* Ah- I can still help! *takes her arm back* My magic can help move this no problem. Better than letting these chicken legs do all the work.. *taps his shin with her hoof*

Sunstreak: *smirks* My chicken legs are doing just fine so far.. This particular piece of furniture is just being stubborn. I don’t believe it’s been moved since the house was built 50 some years ago--

Annie: *cheeks puffed out and red as her horn glows, the cabinet scooting on the floor bit by bit* Hrmmmmm…!

Sunstreak: -- And at this point I’m afraid to see what’s behind……. It… Now you are just showing off. *folds his arms*

Annie: *gives him side eye* You going to help or what..?! *straining*

Sunstreak: *ears perk before quickly getting behind the cabinet and pushing* Mmmph! I thought you were perfectly capable of moving it on your own, hehehe~ I told you, this thing must be made of solid oak!

Annie: In my defence, I never said I could-Hnng… Do it alone..! *lets out a heavy breath as she lets go* Ugh, that’s far enough..! Phew!

Sunstreak: *nods and wipes the sweat off his forehead* Quite good indeed. Thank you for your magical assistance. *as he walks around the cabinet and inspects the floor and wall*

Annie: No problem, heheh…! Oof… Kinda wish I kept my necklace now, heh… *waves her hand* Least it’s probably being put to more use with Rosie than with me though.. Moving furniture isn’t a need.

Sunstreak: *pokes his head out from behind the cabinet* Not unless you want to get into house renovation or work for a moving company.. But you don’t seem like a manual labor type of mare..~ *with a grin*

Annie: *pouts* I am where it counts, heheh. …… Mostly gathering plants on hikes, but still! *walks over to the cabinet, giving it a small kick* Stupid hunk of firewood…

Sunstreak: Hmhmhm, if you like it so much, you can have it~ I haven’t decided what I’ll be using this room for yet, so it may not fit when it’s all said and done.

Annie: *looks it over* Well, it could be a bookshelf if you feel like turning this one into a study… Or maybe a game shelf! For like, making it a stallion-cave or something.

Sunstreak: Hmm.. I don’t really have time to play video games. And I already have a home office in the works. As well as an at home gym that still needs to be finished. The spare bedroom and kitchen are finished, which you have already been acquainted with, as well as both bathrooms and the master bedroom. *pointing in the direction of each room as he lists them off* All that is left really is the living area, the hallways… and I suppose the exterior if I ever get around to it..

Annie: *raises an eyebrow* …… With all THAT going on, you could probably use a game room… It’d be fun, maybe invite some stallion friends over, woop their butts at Pony Kart, heheheh.~ You’d probably enjoy it sometimes.

Sunstreak: *ear twitches and looks to the side* Ah yes.. A jolly day with the old chaps. Once I actually get some stallion friends I’ll be sure to do that.

Annie: *ears perk* Ah. …. Well, what about Ace? He’s your friend, isn’t he..?

Sunstreak: I haven’t really spoken to him since.. the last time I saw him. I can only assume his opinion of me has greatly diminished after I was arrested and put in jail. I know, surprising.. *voice dripping with sarcasm as he scowls*

Annie: Have you tried calling him or anything since you got out? Because, there’s a saying about assuming things.~ *smirks*

Sunstreak: Oh? And what’s that?

Annie: Assuming, makes an “ass” out of “U”. *tail wags*

Sunstreak: *raises an eyebrow* .. Oh I get it, Ass-U-Me.. Clever.. Though I do believe that’s the first time I’ve heard your swear.

Annie: *snorts* I have no problem saying that word. I’ve known quite a few asses….. And mules. *pouts*

Sunstreak: Another play on words. Yes, I do believe I remember you telling me about a certain mule you’ve been seeing as of late. Some shifty carnival worker that works with Cindy.. *scoffs*

Annie: Yeah.. He was really sweet, and treated me well for how casual we were…. I don’t know what happened to change his mind about us, but I know Danny said something to make it happen.. *muzzle scrunches* He always sticks his two-face into my business.. I hate it..! What gives him the right…?! *smoke flows from her snout*

Sunstreak: *ears perk* ….I see, so you must have really liked him to be so worked up over it.. *as he preps his paint roller*

Annie: Yeah! ….. I mean, maybe? He was one of the few guys who didn’t just want me around as a booty call… But the carnival he works in, the fact he is okay with that just being the best he can ever do in life..? It felt very dragging…… Kinda like I was just settling..

Sunstreak: *starts painting the wall* I’m certain you can do better than just “settling”.. A stallion like that has no ambition for a better life, nor wants to put effort into making it so. They just whine and complain about how horrible everything is but never do a thing about it.

Annie: That’s what a lot of the ponies in that carnival do… And Danny’s going to turn into one of them now.. *groans* If he was as good at his job as he was at meddling in my life, he’d still be a guard.. *snorts* Dummy..

Sunstreak: *ears perk* Oh, did he get fired? … Hmmm, how unfortunate~ *trying not to grin*

Annie: ….. Your tail is wiggling.

Sunstreak: Blasted thing has a mind of its own.. But you must see the terrible sense of karma I’m seeing? I’m allowed to find a little enjoyment in the brutal irony of this, am I not? He ruined my life with his meddling, and in turn, he ruined his own.

Annie: *rolls her eyes and smirks a little* I don’t know about karma, but hey, you’re smiling, heheh.. All I know is he did several things wrong, so they booted him out. *sits next to some of the boxes* And now he’s having to settle in that carnival with Singe as a performer.. They make a cute couple, but… There’s better things he could be doing..

Sunstreak: *mumbles, but loud enough for Annie to hear* Maybe they should put him in a cage and have him on display..

Annie: *pouts* Hey!

Sunstreak: *fluffs up and clears his throat* Ahem! As you were saying, I am in complete agreement with you, of course. *waving his hand*

Annie: *shakes her head at him* Mmhmmm. That’s what I thought.. *chuckles a bit and looks around the room* Hmmm….

Sunstreak: …… This very well could be a blessing in disguise, you know.

Annie: *ears perk* How do you figure?

Sunstreak: I mean, what would happen if you actually decided to stay with this stallion. Sure he is nice and sweet, probably romantic and says all the right things... but so is any stallion in the beginning of a relationship. By the time you stay with him long enough to really get to know what he is REALLY like, it’s already too late to back out and you are stuck being the wife of a carnival worker and giving up all your dreams.

Annie: Huh…. You’re probably right… Goddess knows I wouldn’t be able to do any work if I was traveling all the time in a cramped space.. Or be able to test my potions, however many other workers were there… *looks to the side* So many possible test subjects, hmhmhm..~ *sighs* It’s probably better this way though..

Sunstreak: Or be able to fund said experimental potions. Ingredients aren’t cheap and you should really charge more if some products you have to go out of the country to get… like the ones for my sleeping draft that you so recklessly broke.. *stares at her over his shoulder*

Annie: Heheheh, okaaaaaay, I get it, I’ll be more careful next time, heheh! I learned my lesson, you don’t have to rub it in. I thought you hated repeating yourself.~

Sunstreak: Hmhmhm, that I do, but I also find that repetition helps ponies remember. Though I have faith you won’t have any trouble forgetting.

Annie: I never do when it comes to my work, and I take pride in that.~ I’ll get the ingredients during Hearth’s Warming, so there won’t be any trouble, I promise. *waits until his back was turned again, then starts snooping through the boxes*

Sunstreak: I’ll hold you to that~

Annie: *roots through items before letting out a squeal* EEEEEEEEEEEE!!! SO CUTE!!!

Sunstreak: *fluffs up and turns to look* Huh-- Hey! What are you doing there? Those don’t belong to you.

Annie: *looks up at him with round shiny eyes and holds up a picture of him as a small colt* But you look so cuuuuute! You’re actually smiling too! And you still have baby feathers, heehee!!!

Sunstreak: *face turns pink* Ugh.. Hrmm, of course I did. You are ridiculous.. Put it back before you break something.. *looks away and pouts*

Annie: No way, I found gold in here, I wanna see what else you have! *sets the picture down and keeps looking* Oh. My. Goddesses. *holds up a baby picture* You looked so FAT!!!

Sunstreak: *face turns bright red* That’s it! Get out! Shoo! *threatens her with a paint roller*

Annie: But look at your chunky legs! *keeps looking through the box* What else is in here?!

Sunstreak: None of your concern, that is what is in the-- No no, not the photo album! Oh Sun Goddess watch over me... *rubs his face with a groan*

Annie: *flipping through pictures* Aaaaaw, little baby Sunstreeeeeak! And little Rosie too! So flipping cute! *looks back at him, then at the photos* Oh how the smile just disappeared.. Snrk! *keeps looking* Oooh, so that’s your mom and dad. They seem like a nice couple, heheh! …….. Your dad looks a little scary though… *mumbles, but he can still hear* Must be where the scowl came from..

Sunstreak: Hey!

Annie: You’re only mad cuz it’s true! Heheheh.~ *turns another page, ears perking up* Who’s this with you and Rosie?

Sunstreak: *puts down the roller and takes a seat on the ground next to Annie* Let's see….. Ah, that would be my grandmother, on my father’s side.

Annie: Oooh… She’s very pretty.~ I can see where you and Rosie get that cute diamond mark from.~

Sunstreak: *blushes a bit at the “cute” remark* Hrmm.. She was very beautiful and refined. Always dressed in fine clothing and glamorous, sparkly jewelry. Rose always used to say she looked like a princess. And she sort of acted like it too, hmhmhm. Even if she really couldn’t afford it all, it’s not like anyone could really stop her. She was stern and headstrong, but also very kind and caring, I suppose like any grandparent..

Annie: *smiles and purrs a bit* She sounds amazing, heheh.~ Have you talked to her at all recently since you were let out?

Sunstreak: *ears fold back* … No, she died when I was 13. This was probably one of the last photos I took with her.

Annie: *fluffs a little* O-oh, I’m so sorry…! I didn’t….. *ears droop back* … Did she get sick..?

Sunstreak: *shakes his head* No, she was murdered. And then robbed on the street for a few pieces of jewelry and a purse full of 30 measly bits..

Annie: Goddesses… Wh-who could do something like that, she wasn’t hurting anypony…!

Sunstreak: *snorts* When ponies are desperate, they can do terrible things. Although I hardly considered that.. Thing I saw a pony. *grimaces, the same face he makes when Annie uses her nocturnal eyes*

Annie: *ears twitch a bit* ….. It was a pony like me, wasn’t it…?

Sunstreak: *ears perk* A hybrid you mean? Yes, with black eyes, blood soaked teeth and claws, he looked more like a monster than a pony.. But like you, no.. You aren’t a cold blooded murderer..

Annie: Who-.... What did it..? You speak like you were there for it… *winces a bit*

Sunstreak: I was there. We were at the dock back in Vanhoover. Since both of my parents were working full time, I spent most of my time after school with my grandmother. It was a beautiful, warm sunny day and she couldn’t have me stay inside on such a day… I wish we had. I remember getting lost and looking for her when I heard the scream. By the time I got there, she was already dead and I saw whoever did it look back at me before he jumped into the water..

Annie: *ears perk* The water….. So it was a seapony… Like Mako… *looks to the side a bit* …. Kind of explains a few things….

Sunstreak: *snorts* Are you going to psychoanalyze me now? I already have a therapist for that.. For your information, my disdain for hybrids started well before that day.. Likely my father’s influence really. It was always a few harmless jokes or a few back handed comments about the ponies he worked with.. But after my grandmother died, it became more of a feud. He and my uncle both were furious, it was probably the first time they actually got along in years.. Likely the last time too.

Annie: *ears droop back* I’m sorry…. She sounds like an amazing mare.. She didn’t deserve that…

Sunstreak: *ears twitch and looks at Annie* I’m sorry as well.. It’s just a sensitive subject. That.. malice wasn’t directed at you in any way. I was just really close with her… She practically raised me and then she was just gone..

Annie: ……….. *sits up and scoots in front of him on her knees before leaning forward to hug him*

Sunstreak: *tense up slightly before wrapping his arms around Annie and hugging her back* ….

Annie: *purrs once he relaxed more* What was her name..?

Sunstreak: .. Clementine.. Clementine Quartz.

Annie: Hmhm, that’s a very nice name.~ *holds the hug for a bit longer before letting go* Sorry, heheh…. Just looked like you could use a hug..~ *smiles*

Sunstreak: *smiles back* I think I did, thank you..~ ……. Oops.. *looking at the front of Annie, now covered with wet paint* …. I should have…… uh.. You really have yourself to blame.

Annie: Huh? *looks down* O-oh! Heheheh, you’re just a sloppy painter, heheh!

Sunstreak: Hence why I wear these crappy clothes. I don’t normally adorn myself with such rubbish.. Although, that isn’t a bad color on you~ *as he wipes a little paint on Annie’s cheek*

Annie: ACK! Hey! *looks at the paint can before dipping her hand in it and placing it on his face* You could use a new paint job yourself, it looks nice.~

Sunstreak: Hey! Don’t waste the paint, hehehe. I only have so much of it. *grabbing her wrist* I just got out of the shower too… though it seems you’ll be needing one next.. *getting paint in her hair and on her tail*

Annie: EEE! Not the hair! *staaaaares him down* I will take one…. After I finish with your new makeup.. *smears the paint on his forehead and hair*

Sunstreak: *grabs her other wrist and holds them both in one hand* You are such a child, hmhmhm! You are going to track paint all over the house! ….. *dips a finger in the paint can and lightly paints a diamond on Annie’s forehead* There! Now you have that cute diamond marking you were talking about~ *with a smirk*

Annie: *fluffs up but grins* Aaaw, so sweet, you want me to match.~ Heheheheh!

Sunstreak: You were the one who brought it up, not I. I think you were just envious~ And now you don’t have to be….. I feel.. Better. Much grosser and I feel the paint drying in my fur, but.. Better. Thank you for that~ *with a soft purr*

Annie: *smiles back* Happy to help, heheheh.~ *reaches and wipes off some of the paint on his cheeks* Sorry about that, heheh. Paint on old wounds, not my smartest idea…

Sunstreak: *reaches and gently touches Annie’s hand* It doesn’t hurt. Now if you got it in my eyes, we would be having some words.

Annie: Snrk! Glad that didn’t happen then, heheh.~ …….. *feels he still has her hand and fluffs up more*

Sunstreak: *reaches for the paper towels and uses one to wipe off Annie’s hand he was holding* I’m sure I still would have forgiven you… at some point. If I ended up becoming blind, I might take a little longer~

Annie: *smirks* Ah, but you’d still forgive me. I knew you liked me a little.~ *sticks her tongue at him*

Sunstreak: The alternative would be to never speak with you again, and frankly I’d rather be blind than do that.

Annie: ………. *cheeks turn pink and stares at him*

Sunstreak: *looks up* What? No witty come back? …… *sees her face and blushes a little* What? Was it something I said?

Annie: Uh- *looks to the side* No, no you are fine. *pulls her hand away and grabs some paper towels* B-but you should still get that paint off your scar, I don’t want you taking chances like that and end up getting an infection, or hurting yourself worse. *gently rubs off the paint on his face*

Sunstreak: I can use soap and water when I’m no longer hazardous to my wood floor.. *gently runs his fingers through Annie’s hair* … This will be a nightmare to get clean, why do you keep it so long? I’m not complaining, it’s beautiful, but isn’t it heavy? Not to mention a working hazard..

Annie: *blushes a bit but smiles* Heheh, you’re going to think it’s dumb… But, me and Danny made this little pact when we were little that we’d grow our hair out together. Meet up again we were old and grey and see how long we could get it. He’s had to cut his for Basic training, so… I guess I’m in the lead right now. Besides, I’ve only set my hair on fire……. 6 times, that’s not too bad.

Sunstreak: *raises an eyebrow* …. You are not allowed in my plant unless it’s cut or in a hair net.. Too many moving machine parts that would rip your scalp clean off.. I can’t imagine how much you spend on shampoo.. *holding her hair out*

Annie: Snrk, you should be more worried about how much of YOUR shampoo will be gone after I’m done showering..

Sunstreak: *groans* I suppose I can just take another trip to the store, I know how worried you were about me this morning~ *grins*

Annie: *pouts at him* I think I’m allowed to be worried at the thought of your wings catching on the wind and you flying off like a stray umbrella.. *boops his nose*

Sunstreak: *sticks his tongue out a bit* Hmm? How so? What gives you the exclusive right? *teasingly*

Annie: *face turns red* Because I care about you, stupid! *fluffs at him to look bigger*

Sunstreak: *fluffs up and stares at her with wide eyes* …. I see. I.. *looks to the side, cheeks getting pink* … Then the feeling is mutual.

Annie: *tail twitches a bit* Well, good… I was kidding, heheh. I won’t hog your shampoo, if that’s what it takes to keep you indoors. *pets down her feathers*

Sunstreak: *pets down his feathers* .. I don’t mind making the extra trip while you are here to make your stay more comfortable. It’s my own fault for not planning more ahead.. I realize you would rather be on your backpacking adventure or be in Los Pegasus right now…

Annie: *tilts her head and thinks on it* Mmmm…. That was the plan, but….. I’m not that disappointed, honestly. I’m still having fun, albeit messy, hehehe. *tugs at her paint covered shirt* So, I’d still call this a good adventure. The best ones aren’t always planned.~

Sunstreak: *ears perk* Hmm, wise words from a clever mare. I’ll try to remember them~

Annie: *smirks* You better, or I’ll keep repeating it til you do, heheh! *tail wags behind her*

Sunstreak: *ears spring up before quickly reaching and grabbing her tail* Wet paint, wet paint!

Annie: Huh- Aaaah!~ *face turns red* S-sorry, sorry!

Sunstreak: *stares at her with wide eyes* …. Snrk! Hahahaha!

Annie: Hrmmmm! Sh-shut up, it’s sensitive to touch! *tail wriggles in his hand and twitches* Hnnn…

Sunstreak: *lets go* Hmhmhm, I’ll keep that in mind~ Perhaps you should take a shower now before we end up making any more messes.. *looks to the side*

Annie: *keeps her tail curled around her* Okaaaaay, I’ll go get clean, hehehe.. *stands up* But you better not try moving that cabinet again by yourself while I do. You’ll reopen your back injuries even more.. *holds out her hand to help him up*

Sunstreak: *takes her hand and stands up* Hmhmhm, I wouldn’t dream of it. I still have to finish painting the room first anyways.

Annie: *nods* Good, heheh. I’ll leave you to your painting then.~ *turns to leave the room, but baps his face with her tail before going*

Sunstreak: *pouts but smiles a bit* I’ll be here if you need anything. *as he wipes off his hands and starts putting the pictures away*
--------------------------

Sweet memories are made of moments like these, and Annie and Sunstreak are getting to know each other a little more~ Be sure the join the Capricorn Reef discord server to discuss about the boards! discord.gg/QDMf3hj

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