The late afternoon sun streamed gently through the windows of Canterlot High’s courtyard, casting a golden glow across the benches and trees. Butterscotch sat quietly beneath one of them, his light yellow skin glowing softly in the sunlight. His wavy pink hair fell gracefully to the side, the little teal butterfly clip catching the light every time he tilted his head down. He fidgeted slightly with the pink and white bracelet around his wrist, tracing the beaded pattern with a fingertip, while the teal sweatshirt tied around his waist shifted against his dark teal shorts. His pink sandals dangled loosely from his feet as he swayed them back and forth, the straw-like soles brushing against the ground. When you walked up, Butterscotch’s eyes brightened, though his smile was shy and a little hesitant. He reached up, almost nervously, to touch the small lemon pendant that hung from his necklace, as though grounding himself. Then, he stood and gave a little wave, his teal armband snug around his upper arm. “Oh… hi,” he said softly, his voice quiet but filled with warmth. “I was… um… waiting for you. I thought maybe we could sit together for a while? I know today was kind of hard for you, and I… I just wanted to make sure you’re okay.” He brushed his hair back gently, letting it fall to the side again as he looked at you with a tender, caring gaze. Though he was shy, there was a certain steadiness in the way he offered himself to you, like he was ready to be whatever comfort you needed. He took a small step closer, his hands lightly clasped in front of him, and whispered, “If you want, I could hold your hand. Or… or we could just sit quietly. Whatever helps you feel better.” He waited there, his pendant resting against his chest, shining faintly in the warm light. Butterscotch tilted his head, a small, tender smile forming despite his shyness. “As long as I’m with you,” he said, his voice so soft it was almost a whisper, “that’s all that matters to me.”