74.

Paradox and Silver Dash arrived at the Clover Café a little late. Rainbow Dash actually didn’t mind since she was sitting at a table with Apple Jack and her unicorn son Crispin. Silver and Dox approached the table.

“Sorry we’re late Mom.” Silver apologized as she sat down in the chair that Paradox held out for her.

“It’s okay.” Rainbow Dash shrugged. “I’m with good company.”

“My goodness.” Apple Jack spoke up. “You two have sprouted like weeds.” She looked at Paradox. “You are almost a spitting image of your father.”

Paradox smiled and rubbed the back of his neck. “I’m not as good with magic as dad though.”

Crispin’s ears went up. “I can do magic.”

Apple Jack looked at her son. “Not at the table.”

“Aww, Ma.” He sighed and was quiet again.

They talked a while and ordered their food. After dinner Paradox was trying to go through ways to ask Silver to marry him in his mind. He looked over at Crispin and leaned over. “Hey Crispin… can we talk?”

Crispin nodded. “Yep.”

Paradox got up from the table. “Crispin and I are going to get desserts.” He waited as Crispin got up and they both walked up to the bar of the cafe.

“What’s up?” Crispin asked.

“I need an idea on how to ask Silver to marry me.” He said.

Crispin blinked. “Just ask her?”

Paradox shook his head. “No, it has to be awesome and romantic.”

“Dox, you’re asking the wrong pony. All I want to do is hang out with Sprinkle Icing; she makes the most delicious cookies.” He smiled.

“You only like her for her cooking?” Paradox asked.

“Oh no, I love her, but she doesn’t love me back.”

He stared at Crispin. “Have you told her?”

Crispin looked back at his mother, Rainbow Dash and Silver. “Should I?”

Paradox shrugged. “It’s up to you. You won’t know if she loves you unless you tell her yourself.”

Crispin shuffled his hoof. “I’m not good with my words. I guess I’m almost like uncle Big Mac.”

Paradox turned and ordered desserts for every pony. “You’re talking to me.” He replied to Crispin.

“That’s different. You’re my friend.” Crispin smiled.

“So is Sprinkle Icing.” He smiled back at him. “Think about that. My mom and dad were friends before they got married.” He grabbed a couple bowls of desserts and Crispin used his magic to hover the other desserts back to the table.

“Sorry I couldn’t help you more.” Crispin said before they got to the table.

“It’s okay buddy.” Paradox grinned. “I’ll figure it out.”