Sunset Solace

Dazzling as she is, Praline never had any trouble obtaining herself an invite to the Gala (usually on the arm of a handsome and well-to-do bun).
Blaze, on the other hand, had never received an invitation to the Gala... Well, not until this year. Of course, said invitation came with fine print: he and his team were only there as part of the working staff. Their task was to provide the wealthy with the best culinary experience known to bunkind. While Praline found this news to be worth celebrating, Blaze couldn't help but feel conflicted. 

On the day of the Gala, Praline and Blaze worked alongside many other buns to prepare a delicious assortment of finger foods. As the sun began to set, the guests began to arrive... Boy, were they ever decked out! They flashed their brightest smiles and expensive gold accessories like it was just another day. All of this left the fiery chef with a burning pit in his stomach. Filled with uncertainty, Blaze made his way into the empty hall and tried to gather his thoughts. It wasn't very long after that, that a soft and comforting brown paw found its way onto his shoulder.

Praline knew something was on her partner's mind- why was he out here rather than enjoying the party? Blaze realized that that was the whole problem: not being able to provide a romantic evening, all dressed to the nines, made him feel inadequate as a partner. He couldn't afford Praline one of those pretty princess dresses, or any of that fancy jewelry stuff... at least, not for the time being.

Blaze vowed that, some day, the two of them would show up and be the Belle and Beau of the ball! Seeing that spark of confidence return to his eyes made Praline beam with pride. Though she would look forward to that day, she was still very happy with where they were now. This experience would become part of their shared adventure as a couple! Plus, there were no rules about staff not getting to enjoy themselves. Praline gave her lover a pinch and a peck on his rosy little cheek, before taking steps back towards the ballroom. As the door opened, the melody from the other room enveloped them both. With heart racing and eyes shining, Blazed called out to Praline with a question. She looked back, with a coy smile on her lips. 

Of course she would save the last dance for him.