Of Hooves and History

Aiden's Affection

On most nights, I would simply just wave goodbye to all the sea creatures and curl up in my hammock in the sub. But a royal castle's guest suite was a very different story – especially with two royal sisters whom I was starting to like very much. Zipp had a cool streak and a confident, mindful edge to her, while Pipp was adorable and creatively enthusiastic in showcasing things. She was also quite chubby and short compared to her sister, which gave me an idea.

"Girls, bedtime is approaching now," Haven announced as the door opened. "We have a very important day ahead of us and sleep is a key factor in preparing for it."

"Um, about that..." I began slowly, raising a hand. Haven nodded with a brief smile as she caught my eye. "Pipp?"

"Yes, Aiden?"

"It's been such a delight spending time with you. I wish to return the favor by bringing you to your room."

"Oh, I can easily walk for even fly there myself," she replied bashfully.

"It won't be comforting, though." I slid off the bed to the floor and sat in front of her, palms out. "Do you accept my offer?"

Her face softened with glee as she caught on. "Be my guest, Aiden."

I reached out and gently gripped her sides, before gradually rising to my feet. My heart jelly-fied a little as her rear hooves joyfully kicked about.

"Little on the heavy side," I squirmed, pulling her close to my chest and quickly slipping a supportive hand under her hindquarters. "Hold on to me."

Pipp gripped my shoulders with her forehooves, alleviating the excess stress on my supporting arm. I caught Zipp's eye and smiled. "Relax, sweetie Pipp."

With her head against my neck, I gently caressed her mane and gave her back a soft pat. It felt like a dream.

"I'll show you the way," was all Haven said, gesturing to the door.

As I followed the queen down the halls, I felt two types of strong energy radiating – Pipp's warm, softer-than-cotton body, and the pining jealousy from Sunny, Izzy, and even Zipp. Pipp could barely talk; she was just so happy in my arms. A giggle leaked out as I gave a little ear-scratch.

"And here we are," Haven announced, stopping at a large bronze gold door with beige accents.

"Huh. I'd somehow originally thought it'd look darker with a golden glow to indicate its owner," I thought. "More significant that way, given the royalty status."

I squatted down to release Pipp, but felt hooves digging into my chest and shoulder blades. She didn't want to let go! I looked over at Haven worriedly, unsure what course of action to take. Then a snapshot of my mom flashed in my head with the answer. I stood back up, shifted Pipp into more of an arm hold posture, and gently rocked her back and forth, humming softly.

"I'll love you forever,

I'll love you always,

As long as I'm here,

My little pony friend you'll be."

I pulled her into a snug cuddle, which felt almost ethereal for a moment. Haven looked on, her face almost glowing with admiration and blissful contentment. We entered Pipp's room and I gently placed her on the bed, resulting in her eyes blinking open, much to my surprise.

"Oh! I... thought you were asleep."

"Almost," she replied softly. "Thanks for the ride. And the cuddles."

"Anytime, Pipp. Goodnight, my little pony."

"Goodnight, Aiden."

Back in my guest suite, Sunny and Izzy were waiting with golden retriever puppy eyes, the silent plea painfully obvious.