Well guys, I can't believe I'm saying this but this is going to be the final chapter of the story. I want to thank each and everyone of you for reading and reviewing. Your kind words have made all the difference in moving this story along. I'm glad my story has touched so many of you and I'm sure I'll be writing more Tinkerence in the future :)

Fawn found Vidia off in a distant corner, leaning against a wall and gulping down a glass of punch.

Vidia's face soured when she landed. Fawn took a deep breath and willed herself for this potentially unpleasant conversation.

"I'm sorry."

Vidia scoffed. "I don't do apologies."

"Vidia, I said I'm sorry."

"For what. Telling me I only act nice to further my own agenda."

"I didn't say that."

"You may as well have."

"I didn't mean it. I was angry because you struck a nerve. You're right. I'm always everybody else's shoulder to cry on and it sucks."

Vidia's gaze softened.

"I don't like talking about it because I hate pity, but it bothers me. And if I say anything about it, I'm suddenly insincere."

"You're not insincere, Fawn."

Fawn shook her head. "What am I saying. You don't know the first thing about sincerity, Vidia."

"I thought this was supposed to be an apology?"

"I'm doing it again, aren't I."

"Yes."

"Well . . ." Fawn sighed. "Alright. I take that back, too. I think you're a lot more sincere than you let on."

"Gee. Thanks. Now that I got the official Fawn Stamp of Approval, I can go tell everyone how sincere I am."

"Could do without the sarcasm."

"Could do without the half-assed apology."

Fawn sighed. This was where most conversations with Vidia went that were about anything important: nowhere.

"Look. I didn't-"

"Listen. For a second." Vidia took a step closer to the animal fairy, her drink now empty.

"I didn't get angry because you were speaking out of place. I was angry because . . . because . . . because you were right." She immediately groaned, facepalming. "Fuck!"

Now Fawn was confused. Vidia never folded. She always played to her last chip, but that was exactly it; she never came close to running out because she could call everyone's bluff a mile away.

Vidia never admitted defeat.

"About what?" Fawn tested.

That earned her a glare. "Do you really need me to spell it out for you? Is your memory really that poor?"

She deserved that. "Okay, fine. I know."

"I know you know."

"Okay."

"Okay."

A simmering silence, and then,

"I'm still sorry for saying it when you were upset. It wasn't the right place."

"Fawn, you need to learn to stop apologizing when fairies get upset with you for telling the truth. I thought you had stronger wings than that."

"I-"

"Coming to me and apologizing for trying to get through to me is weak."

Fawn was flabbergasted. "Vidia, I-"

"You acted like what you said was rude, when we both know you actually meant it. Apologies are for mistakes. Do you think it was a mistake, telling me what you did?"

Fawn didn't have to think. "No . . ."

"So why are you coming to me and apologizing?"

"Because you're my friend, and I made you upset."

"Friends make each other upset sometimes. It's not a big deal."

"It is a big deal."

"Not to me it isn't," Vidia said boredly. "Now can we move on, already? This is ancient history."

"You're really letting this go that easily?"

"And you really aren't."

"Because I hurt you, and I'm s-"

"Don't you say it."

"Am I not allowed to apologize to my friend for making her upset?" Fawn exclaimed, throwing her hands up in exasperation.

"No! Because you already admitted you were telling the truth and didn't think it was a mistake. That by definition means you aren't sorry."

"You're the one that told me I shouldn't be sorry!"

"Because I know you're not, because there's nothing to be sorry for! Can we just drop this, please?"

Fawn was going to reply, but she stopped at the look on Vidia's face. She was flat all over, lips void of any downward curve, but there was something in her eyes that cried out in pain.

"Hiya, Sugarplum!" exclaimed a familiar voice, startling Fawn. She turned around to see Rosetta, Clove, Silvermist, Amethyst, Iridessa and Sage all flying toward them. They landed and Fawn whipped back around to Vidia, who had already straightened her posture and plastered on a smile that was just convincing enough to the unsuspecting eye.

"Hey guys!" Vidia greeted in a tone that very clearly told Fawn don't you dare.

"Just because you single birds don't have dates doesn't mean you can't dance," said Silvermist as she did a little shake, who by the looks of it had already had enough to drink.

"Yeah, come dance with us, guys," encouraged Amethyst. "You don't wanna be stuck in this corner all night."

"I for one would love to," said Vidia, casting Fawn another look as the group began to fly back toward the floor. Fawn had no choice but to, as usual, follow.

Out on the floor, the pairs partnered up and left Fawn and Vidia to sway to the beat solo. Fawn felt a surge of jealousy go through her as she watched each couple enjoy themself, and she kept glancing at Vidia. But Vidia was pointedly avoiding her. Fawn didn't know how much more of this she could take.

Suddenly, Opal marched up to Vidia. She wore a face of white-hot rage. Before Fawn could warn her, Opal flew straight to Vidia and smacked her square across the jaw.

Neighbouring fairies gasped in horror and stopped dancing as the music continued to play, and Vidia cried out in pain, clutching her cheek.

"What the hell was that?"

"That was for Azure, you boyfriend-stealing slut."

Rosetta gasped. "Don't you talk about her that way! Just what in the name of Mother Dove's first laid do you think you're doin?"

"You slept with him, didn't you," Opal seethed, refusing to back down.

"Hey, hey, you need to take it down a few notches," Clove said, stepping closer to Opal.

"Get away from me," Opal said coldly.

"How long, Vidia. How long have you been sleeping with my boyfriend."

"I didn't sleep with your- Ow, god damnit."

Fawn felt anger boiling deep inside her. A protectiveness she'd never known before churned through her insides, seeping deep into the marrow of her bones.

"Get away from her, Opal," she said sternly, stepping toward the brunette. "Now."

"Get lost, squirrel chaser."

"Opal," said Vidia, "I didn't sleep with your fucking boyfriend. Do you really think I'd sink that low? That's the real insult here."

"Then tell me why he just broke up with me."

Vidia chuckled in shock. "That is not my problem, sweetie."

Fawn took another step closer, fists shaking at her sides. Opal must have sensed something, because she backed away.

"Opal, I'm going to give you five seconds to scram before-"

"Before you'll what? Tell on me to Queen Clarion?"

"Opal, get out of here," said Sage. "I'm serious. You can't hit our friend. Go. We don't give a fuck about your stupid, cheating boyfriend."

"He literally cheated on me with you, and you still took him," said Vidia. "You knew what you were signing up for."

Opal glared icily before storming off.

Fawn and Vidia exchanged a glance.

"You okay, honey?" Rosetta asked.

"Don't 'honey' me, I'm good," said Vidia, rubbing her cheek. Then she turned to Fawn. "You didn't have to do that."

"Do what?"

"You know what. Stick up for me. After the way I was talking to you earlier."

Fawn smiled softly. "Ancient history. That's what friends are for."

Vidia smirked. Fawn realized it was the best she was gonna get. She'd take it.

...

Tink saw a light coming from her hut as she flew up to the door. Curious, she whipped it open and flew inside.

It was the flower.

Its petals were once again perked up with life, and as she peered closer she could see a slight glittery hue around the edges. Perhaps this flower did have some magic to it after all, if it sensed she was having a bad day. She'd have to give Fairy Mo a visit, because she couldn't explain its sudden decision to glow again.

"Now it's time to get this cursed punch off me," she muttered to herself.

Once she showered, she felt refreshed and clean. She changed into a soft, green nightgown and slippers. Her damp hair draped down around her shoulders as she combed through it slowly. The events of the night had drained her and she was ready for bed.

She peered into her reflection, feeling slightly disappointed that Terence hadn't gotten to see her in her gown. She shouldn't feel this way, but she couldn't help it.

Suddenly, her flower began to glow more brightly. It illuminated the entire room, casting a golden glow that almost made Tink squint her eyes.

Then came a knock at her door.

Tink startled, dropping her brush. She slowly flew toward the door, wondering who could be visiting at this hour. And why they weren't at the dance, having fun.

She opened the door.

It was Terence.

She reeled back. Her heart climbed in her throat.

"Terence?"

"Hey, Tink . . ." He sounded shy, unsure of himself. She didn't like it at all.

"What are you doing here?"

"I came to talk to you. About some things." He peered past her, eyes widening at the noticeable glow. "Wait a minute . . . Is that the flower?" He stepped around her, making a beeline straight for the light.

"Come on in?" Tink muttered.

"I haven't seen it glow like this since we first got together," he said, and she felt a stab in her abdomen. He and Tink spent a moment looking at it, until Tink grew bored and flew away. She saw no point in admiring the flower if there was nobody to share it with.

Terence sat at her table, bouncing his knee rapidly beneath the surface. Tink put some tea on for him, and insecurely brushed through her hair. She never had it down with company.

"Tink," Terence chuckled. "You don't have to entertain me. I came out of nowhere, and you look like you could fall asleep at any minute. So it's alright. I don't need tea or anything."

"It's already on the pot." Tink fished through her cabinet for two mugs.

Terence stood up and came behind her, placing a hand over hers. "Tink."

She finally stopped, turning around to face him. He was awfully close. She felt her heart rate picking up again.

He seemed to notice their closeness, for he backed up, rather quickly. "Sorry . . ." he said awkwardly. "Kinda a force of habit."

"Terence." She shook her head. "What are you doing here?"

"We need to talk. Can we sit? Please?"

Tink sighed and allowed herself to be led to the table. They took seats opposite of each other.

"Thought you were with Midnight."

"I shouldn't have ever agreed to go with her."

"Are you saying that because you want something, or because you actually mean it?"

"Tink, why does everything have to be a third degree with you, huh?" Terence exclaimed, taking her aback. "Here I am trying to apologize, and you're making it all about Midnight."

"You said you wanted to talk. You didn't say you wanted to apologize."

Terence's head fell into the palm of his hand. "It's implied."

"Well, it wasn't to me."

"Clearly not."

They were right back where they started.

"Terence, I feel like we argue too much," Tink said, attempting to take a stab at the truth.

Terence chuckled mirthlessly, saying nothing.

"Well?" Tink pressed. "You clearly came for a reason. What is it?"

Terence remained silent, frustrating her.

"You can either sit there and remain silent or tell me what's really going on. Clearly something happened with Midnight, and clearly it was important enough to bring you here otherwise you'd still be at the ball having fun with your friends."

"Tink . . ." Terence shook his head again. "Can't you see? I can't have fun at the ball. Not without you."

Tink's eyes widened. Terence stood up from his chair, approaching her slowly.

"I should have never listened to her, Tink. I should have never let her get in my head. What we had was . . . special. And I threw it away."

"Terence . . ." she pleaded, feeling a pang in her chest. "Don't say that. I messed up, too. I assumed things about you without talking to you about it first. If anything this whole thing's my fault."

"It's not about blame." Terence took her hands in his. Tink felt her pulse uptick, felt time still all around her. There was nothing in the entire universe except for her and Terence in that room. He knelt before her, cupping her hands, a look in his eyes she'd never seen before.

"Tink," he said softly, so softly.

She gulped, felt herself nodding, needing him to speak more.

"Do you want to be with me?"

The question hung in the air between them, quiet as a mouse. She felt their air mix as the desperation in his eyes pleaded silently with her. Wide as saucers, he looked genuinely afraid of what she would say.

She moved closer to him, took a hand and ran it through his soft, blonde hair. "Yes," she whispered.

He wasted no time in pressing his mouth against hers in a heated kiss, cupping her cheeks and pulling her impossibly close. She wrapped her arms around his neck and breathed deeply through her nose as the kiss left her breathless and tingly. She needed more of him like she needed air.

Terence sported a soft smile. "I missed you," he said, caressing her face as though he couldn't believe she were real, "so much."

She didn't want to tell him it physically hurt her to be without him. "Let's never do that again," she agreed.

Suddenly the room was cast in a bright, yellow glow. Tink and Terence broke apart, panting, and looked at the flower, which had begun elevating and casting even more light. Sparkles of pink and purple flew from its petals, which were completely open and alive as ever.

"Terence, the flower!"

"It's almost like it . . ." He gasped. "That's it. That has to be it."

"What?"

"Tink, there's something I need to tell you."

"Wait a minute. Me first."

She'd been holding it in far too long, and life was far too short.

"Okay, go ahead."

She cleared her throat, and then, "I love you, Terence."

He froze. For half an instant, she worried she'd gone too far, scared him off.

You've really done it now, you big, blithering-

Suddenly she was being tackled to the floor, chair and all, and enveloped in a big hug. She gasped, allowing herself to enjoy the warm sensation of Terence's arms.

"I love you," she said again, pecking him on the lips.

"Tink." He looked at her with pure adoration. He leered over her, a dopey grin on his face. "I love you, too."

They held onto each other tightly and didn't let go for a long time.

The flower released a shower of sparkles, raining down the entire room.

As their relationship went on, Tink would often look back at this night, this whole series of events, really, and wonder why it took her so long to discover how Terence felt when the answer was right in front of her. Why they had to spell everything out to each other instead of simply just figuring it out. Perhaps she'd never fully know the answer. But the truth was, they were two really stubborn fairies, so that probably played a large role.

Besides, it didn't matter how other fairies in love found their way. It mattered how she and Terence found their own.

They eventually brought the flower back to Fairy Mo.

"Well, look at you two lovebirds!" he exclaimed at the pair, who stood in his shop with matching grins, hand in hand. "Ya figured it out. Took ya long enough."

"Fairy Mo," said Tink, "we'd like to return this flower. We want to see other couples experience its magic the same way we did."

Fairy Mo's mouth formed the shape of an O, and his thick eyebrows lifted up off his face. "Are you sure, Tinker Bell? This flower's rare, one of a kind. You're not going to find another one of these in a million-"

"We're sure," Terence affirmed.

Tink extended the glowing flower to Fairy Mo.

"It's just going to sit on the shelves, not glowing for who knows how long," Fairy Mo said.

"Someone will find it eventually," Tink reasoned. "And when they do, they'll discover the life changing secret of its magic."

"If you say so," Fairy Mo said, hesitantly taking the flower from Tinker Bell's outstretched hand. He bid the fairies goodbye, and they were well on their way.

He knew true love in the sense that Tinker Bell and Terence had it was incredibly rare to come by. He'd figure a way to convince Tink to keep that flower, yet.

"Catch me if you can!" Tink called to her boyfriend, zipping through the meadow under the boiling summer sun.

He laughed, racing after her. It was just another beautiful day in Pixie Hollow. A beautiful day to be in love.