//------------------------------// // Chapter 1: "She's always on my mind." // Story: Be Mine // by ThatChangelingGit //------------------------------// Chapter 1: "She's always on my mind." 6:15 am, Friday the 31st of May. The dainty small, lavender colour alarm clocked boomed out its alarm. It echoed and reverbed across the large and lavish fashionista’s room. The constant ringing of the bells was joined by a disgruntled groan from the lilac lips of a pallid, petit young woman. Her arm outstretched from beneath the cosy, cushioned blankets, failing a few times to slam down against the bouncing and highly energetic alarm clock. But the alarm was silenced, and so was the room. Rarity sat up slightly, and peeled off her eye-cover, she blinked a few times to adjust to the sunlight that poured into her room. She studied her alarm clock and had noted the time, too early she had thought, she was never a morning person, unlike others in her friend group, like Pinkie or Applejack. Still, needs must, it was the last day of term before the two weeks off. And much like every other day, she needed to get up and ready herself for the day ahead, and truth be told, getting up this early allowed Rarity some time to get herself ready. The weather had been strange lately, such is the way with the coming of spring, one day, beautiful sunshine, but still cold, the next, rainy, and miserable. Luckily, today seemed to be the former. Crisp blue skies, few clouds, and warmed sunlight. Rarity exited her bed sluggishly, not even daring to gaze into a mirror until she had reached her en-suite bathroom. Undressing from her loose-fitting pyjama’s, she nonchalantly tossed them into her washing basked, she stood, bare and nude as she waited for the warm water to coast through her shower. Whilst she waited for a few moments, she examined her soft white skin in the mirror, noting that even though she had woken up early, her skin seemed fair, unblemished, and gentle. Her eyes, however, did have a notable set of bags beneath them. She groaned once again; these mornings were getting the best of her. Her hair was a tangled mess of purple, though, that soon would be a less of an issue, as the water had warmed thoroughly. She checked twice to see if she had towels and that her darling little sister, Sweetie Belle, hadn’t stole them for her morning shower downstairs. Fortunately, the towels had not been thieved. She stepped into the shower and basked in the delight of the warmed water coating her supple soft skin. Her mane of purple hair dampened instantly and softly glued itself down almost as it became sodden. She soaked herself in the warm water, taking a body wash to lather across her rather slender yet curvaceous frame. Letting the suds rush their way down from her chest towards her feet. A morning shower was her coping mechanism for such early starts. It was an instant stress relief for Rarity. Her mind wondered as she began to wade shampoo through her royal purple hair. She thought back to yesterday at Canterlot High. She had been spending extra time with the girls after Rainbooms Practice. Rainbow had a charity match against Crystal Prep Academy, and all had gone with her to cheer her on during practice, and to also enjoy the pleasant weather, that had begun to leak its way through as the snow from winter had melted and the sun from spring had begun to make its mark. Though sports was and still isn’t Rarity’s thing, it sure did make her happy to see her friends doing well in things they enjoyed, and besides, it’s a chance to hang with her friends, share a couple of snacks and enjoy the outdoors. All had managed to take seats on the benches overlooking the grassy field, sitting by one another in small duos or trios. Fluttershy, in her eternal quietness, cheered Rainbow on as she practice in a gentle softness, all the while, Pinkie being her energetic self, screamed as Rainbow managed to count to twenty-eight ‘headers’. Rarity’s mind seemed to skip some of the details of yesterday though, the details she cared less about, the sporty ones, they became a blur as she showered, letting the shampoo eventually be washed out from her hair. She hummed softly and closed her eyes once again as she massaged in conditioner, her mind, resuming the memories of yesterday. She had been sat on the bench, above the girls, as they watched Rainbow and her team practice. Rarity was too distracted by her phone, scrolling through various apps, occasionally watching the odd TikTok here and there. Until she was disturbed by a sudden weight being added to her bench. She turned to meet Applejack, who had decided to sit right next to her. “Howdy there sugarcube.” Applejack said with her natural country twang. Admittedly, Rarity had always found herself fond of Applejacks voice, the deep, comforting, natural southern love, did wonders for her heart. And also caused a flurry of butterflies in her stomach, every time she had spoken directly to her. Even now, in the shower, Rarity’s tummy fluttered, simply thinking about the broad, apple-farmer. Her memory continued. “Hello there darling, I thought you were busy with Apple Bloom?” Rarity asked as she put her away her phone, paying full attention to the slightly tanned farm girl beside her. “Nah, Apple Bloom decided to go round Scootaloo’s, ‘long with your sister too.” Applejack retorted, tipping her hat back, to create some shade from the sun. Rarity smiled, at last, some peace and quiet at home, away from her chaotic, yet loveable sister. Both sat silently for a moment, till Applejack leant back and rested her elbows on the higher bench behind her, so that she could lean back and watch Rainbow and the other girls cheer her on. She smiled and looked at Rarity and spoke once again. “So, ya’ll got any plans for these new two weeks Rare’s?” Rare’s… a simple nickname, but one that meant so much. Rarity’s mind fluttered as did her heart as she thought back to this simple memory. In her memory, she replied. “Oh… no, nothing as of note, of course I want to spend some time with everyone, but… nothing set in stone as of yet.” Rarity said honestly, sighing after she spoke. She had some fashion work to work on, complete some dresses here and there for a few clients, but that wouldn’t take the two whole weeks. “What about you darling?” Rarity asked, as she glanced over to the broad woman sat beside her. Rarity’s mind paused to think for a moment as she washed the conditioner out of her hair, and twisted the knob on the shower, to cease the lovely, warmed water, goosebumps formed across her body as the cool air had hit her. She stepped out, wrapped a towel around herself and dried herself and let the memory of Applejacks appearance. She is taller than most of the girls, all except Sunset Shimmer, who nearly rivalled Applejacks height, just not her broadness. She was toned, tall, and naturally beautiful. Not an ounce of makeup on the farm girl, just pure natural beauty, that Rarity constantly admired and marvelled at. She found herself wondering again, as her thoughts blurred out the memories of the conversation, and only seemed to focus on Applejacks undeniable beauty. Rarity felt a blush rush to her ivory cheeks as she thought of the farmgirl, every moment of her recently had been so tantalizingly intriguing and so alluring. To Rarity, Applejack was undeniably attractive. “She’s on my mind… I can’t get enough of her.” She whispered to herself. A smile began to creep its way across her lips, as she let out a little giggle. Stamped her feet on the sodden bathmat beneath her feet. Rarity had become enamoured by the farmgirl. A fact, she had accepted, and never denied. It had been building for some time, event after event, moments they had spent together, only explored, and expanded these feelings into a true, full crush, a feeling she knew all too well, but this time it felt stronger, this wasn’t just an idle dream, a fantasy, no, she loved her. Leaving the bathroom, her mind continued the memory of yesterday, all the while, she smiled gleefully. The memory continued with Applejack, with that sweet country smile. “Naw, got nothin’ planned either. I was gonna help out ‘round the farm, but Granny say’s that Big Mac’s gonna be teaching Apple Bloom how to do most of the work, so I’m free to see some of my friends.” She chuckled heartily. “Both of them have been sayin’ I need to get out more, so I s’pose, I oughta. But seein’ as neither of us have anything planned, why don’t us two do somethin’?” Applejack suggested to Rarity with a large toothy smile, her arms slightly outstretched to extenuate the idea of the two of them doing something. “That sounds wonderful darling, I’m sure the girls would love to do something too.” Rarity responded with a light smile; heat had risen to her cheeks admittedly. She found it so flattering that Applejack wanted to personally spend some time with her. Applejack beamed at Rarity before she chuckled softly. “I’m sure, us and the girls can do somethin’, but what I mean sugarcube, is that you and I, did something, together, just us…” It was now Applejack’s time to blush. Her freckles became highlighted by a soft glow of pink, as she scratched the back of her blonde hair. “I-if you want to that is, I don’t wanna hog you to myself, Rare’s.” Applejack said, this time, softer and more intimate. Rarity’s eyes widened as she felt that same heat, as she looked Applejack in her earthy and emerald, green eyes. She smiled softly and nodded at the farmgirl. “Applejack, I’d love to. I think some time together is perfect, we rarely see each other, compared to the others. I think…” The memory of yesterday was shattered however as a knock-on Rarity’s door pulled her back into reality. It was her little sister Sweetie Bell, hammering her fist against her door as she bellowed out the words “GOOD MORNING BIG SIS!” From behind the door. Rarity sighed and grumbled, not entirely in the best of moods as her fond memory of yesterday’s conversation with the woman she had a crush on had been ruined. Rarity decided against opening the door, as she was still only half naked, only wearing her lacey intimates. “Good morning, little sister, make sure you’re ready for school, I’ll be downstairs in a moment.” Rarity cooed as she brushed her hair, blow dried it and ensured it flowed into usual, fashionable look. As all knew, she to pride in the way she looked, being a fashionista was important for Rarity. As was keeping up to date with the latest trends in fashion and appearance. Her outfit for the day matched the weather, airy, but also light and comfortable. Her clothes had always been a tight fit, on purpose anyways. She knew that she had a body, many had idolised, and some even ogled at. Her hips, curvy and were emphasised by the ebony black pencil skirt she had chosen to wear. It also emphasised certain other parts of her body, that being her slender waist and rather rounded and well-shaped rear. Something that she too was proud of. Her top was a simple white shirt, that hid a lilac purple tank top beneath, it hugged her chest, again, highlighting her nimble frame. Simplicity these days was necessary, especially with the weird weather. That and she wanted to catch the eye of only one individual today. That of course being Applejack. After examining herself in the mirror several times, she giggled once again to herself, stifling it behind her hand, as she thought back to the prospect of seeing Applejack, by herself, during the two-week break. It was making her giddy, coloured in the face and slightly weak in the knees. She glanced over at the clock once again. This time it read 7:15. An hour had gone by. Enough time for breakfast, hopefully, this time Sweetie Belle hadn’t burnt everything again. She strode her way to the downstairs kitchen, which luckily, hadn’t been burnt down, she found her petit little sister, gnawing on what seemed to be darkened toast, with a spread of some sort of jam. Rarity gave her a small smile, and in return, Sweetie Belle gave her a wide grin, showing off her teeth and half-eaten toast. Rarity’s expression changed instantly to one of disgust. “Oh Sweetie Belle, do you have to be so vulgar? A lady mustn’t have her mouth open whilst she eats, its uncouth.” Rarity commented, as she fetched a glass of orange juice and her own slice of toast, this time, a perfect golden brown, a contrast to her sisters, near burnt slice. Sweetie Belle only groaned in response before she swallowed her food and replied to her elder sister; “But you don’t seem to mind when any of your friends do it!” Her voice was still ever so slightly high-pitched, and a little to squeaky for this early in the morning. Rarity rolled her eyes in response, finished her slice of toast, and took her final sips of her small glass of orange juice, before she eventually responded. “Because, dear sister, they are my friends, and they are older than you, they can make their own choice, it doesn’t necessarily mean that I agree with it, but seeing as you are my little sister, I want to teach you manners, about being a dignified and respectful young woman, trust me, it goes a long way in life, in every sense.” Rarity said with a slight sternness, but also a calming, slight motherly tone. Seeing as it was just the two of them most of the time, with their parents being away for most of their lives, Rarity had assumed the mantle of both, big sister, and pseudo mother, to her little sister. She wanted her little sister to grow up to be a fine woman, and not fall into vulgarity. But she also had to ensure that she wasn’t simply making a clone of herself, Sweetie had to be her own person. “I suppose so, but you I have never seen you complain when visit the Apples, especially seeing Apple Bloom and Applejack eat like it too.” Sweetie retorted as she stood from her seat and brushed off the blackened crumbs from her outfit. Rarity paused for a moment; her brow raised in thought. Sweetie Belle was right, she typically only commented on when Rainbow or Pinkie spoke with a mouthful of food, but she never seemed to mind when Applejack did it? There… was something always blocking that out, like Rarity didn’t seem to mind or care. Her face gained a slight pink hue once again as she thought about her friend, her crush, the tall, blonde, strong farmgirl. A smile once again creeped over her lips, as she became lost in thought. As in life, especially in love, you must take the bad with the good, and if that meant Applejack spoke with a mouthful of food sometimes, it didn’t matter, as the rest of her was good… real damn good. Rarity stood there for a moment, leant against the counter of the kitchen, glass tapping her lips as she stared off into space. Her young sister tapped her hips and broke this trance. “Rarity?” She asked, as she shook her elder sister back into reality once again. “Huh? Oh, I’m sorry Sweetie Belle, I was lost in thought.” Rarity said with a small smile, and a slight bead of sweat coming from her forehead. She exchanged the smile with her sister, who only in return, gave Rarity, a puzzled look, with one raised brow. “I’ve seen this before Rarity, you’ve got a crush.” Sweetie said with a large grin. Rarity’s eyes widened as blinked a few times and fanned her face. “I-I do not! Just… womanly things.” Rarity lied, she dreaded the fact of her little sister knowing of her crush towards Applejack, she and the Crusaders were little gossipers, the word would fly throughout the entirety of Canterlot High. But much like Applejack had said multiple times, lying is a disgusting act, and according to the farmgirl, it had ‘always put a sour taste in her mouth.’ “Nuh-uh, I can tell when you’re lying Rarity, you’ve done this before when you’ve seen someone who’s caught your eye, come on, tell me, please? Pleeaassee?” Sweetie persisted. “No, I can’t Sweetie Belle, I can’t risk you spreading around rumour, or perhaps getting the word out. “But this time, I won’t, I’ll even do a signature Pinkie promise!” “You said that last time, and you went around telling the entire school that I thought that I had a secret crush on Adagio, even though I told you, that I simply thought her sense of style was complimentary to her figure.” Sweetie Belle went silent. Rarity was right, she did have a habit of either forgetting the truth, and weaving her own version of it, or changing it, to make the narrative more exiting. Sweetie Belle pouted. But curiosity grew once again, and thus, she started to ask questions. “Soooo, are they a boy or a girl?” “A woman.” Rarity simply responded as she began to make her way upstairs, to finish readying herself for the last day of term. “And is she pretty?” Sweetie asked, she was in truth, happy for her older sister, many times she had seen her big sister heartbroken over someone who either used her, or had shut her affection out. She deserved some happiness and share that happiness with someone special. Rarity felt that similar heat return to her face as Sweetie Belle asked the question. She smiled to herself and replied softly. “Very much so.” She paused, her mind drifted once again, despite the pleasant thought of Applejacks natural beauty, she shook her head and spoke once again: “But darling, you must get ready for school, we best not be late.” Rarity decided to end the questionnaire. Sweetie Belle aptly groaned and grimaced at the fact school would be in session relatively soon. Rarity shooed her off, so that she made sure she was ready for the day ahead as well. Rarity brushed her teeth, and gazed into the mirror, the pink hue had only slightly vanished as she muttered to herself once again. “She’s always on my mind.” She repeated as a smile appeared once again as she applied her make-up, grabbed her bag, keys for her car, and her little sister in toe. “Come along Sweetie, I’m sure your friends would like to see you before first period.” She called out to Sweetie Belle as she opened the front door of their home. -o0o- The drive to Canterlot High was fairly silent, Sweetie Belle was glued to her phone, tapping away at the screen as she furiously messaged the group chat between herself and the Crusaders, all the while Rarity idly hummed to the playlist she had made herself, with the influence of her friends music tastes dripping in and out, here and there, with soft gentle ballads from Twilight and Fluttershy, to rock, metal and heavier music from Rainbow, club and pop music from Pinkie, and of course, a few country songs from Applejack. Country wasn’t Rarity’s thing at all, but there were a few songs that reminded her of her dearest friend, these ones had rubbed off on her. She smiled whenever they came on, as she could picture Applejack either humming, or whistling the tune, as she either worked or walked around the halls of Canterlot High. Within no time, nor delay, the sisters had arrived at Canterlot High, and as expected, due to the duo leaving at a prompt time, there was plenty of spaces to choose from. A few cars, bikes here and there, but a few stood out. Sunset Shimmers motorbike for example, was in the same spot, every time, without fail, Sunset had always commented on how that was ‘her space’. But the one vehicle that stuck out the most was the slightly rusted and red coloured Pickup truck. It was Applejacks, one she proudly owned herself. It matched her big brothers, Big Mac’s larger 4x4, in colour and condition. Both old, beaten, slightly rusted, but both worked perfectly fine. Rarity pulled up beside Applejack’s truck, she had spotted Apple Blooms little red bow. The big wide toothy grin of the younger Apple sister only widened as she had noted Sweetie Belle. Rarity made note of this and nudged her little sister’s knee. “I think your friend see’s you darling.” Rarity said with a slight laugh, as Sweetie Belle sprung from her phone, yanked the door handle and swung it open with high velocity and screamed at her dear friend “Apple Bloom!” Rarity grimaced as Sweetie Belle slammed her car door shut. She thankfully didn’t swing the door wide enough to hit Applejack’s truck either. Rarity pulled down her sun visor, and checked herself once again in the small mirror, lipstick, check, eye-shadow and eyeliner, check, hair, check. She brushed herself down and gracefully exited her silver vehicle. The spring air had hit here, as she left the vacancy of her air cooled car, it was a warm, and pleasant day, a change from the wild and horrid rain they had been plagued by recently. She strode away from her vehicle, bag clutched in her arm, as she placed a pair of sunglasses on the top of her head. Her smiled widened as she examined the truck beside her, as the driver side door swung open. Outstretched an ever so slightly tanned, and broad arm, and following it, was a sight Rarity never got bored of. Applejack, dressed in a usual red and green flannel, her tight and slightly ripped blue jeans, that hugged her lower and broad frame. Her flannel tied at the chest, exposing the white tee that hid below it, which was decorated with a trio of tiny red apples. Atop her head was that usual cowboy Stetson, one that always complimented Applejack, it simply suited her. Rarity waited for her to be fully revealed before saying hello. She smiled sweetly towards Applejack, once again, that feeling of butterflies had started to course its way through her body once more. It was a good feeling, one she never tired of. “Good morning darling.” Rarity sweetly sung out towards Applejack. The farmgirl slammed the door shut, as with it being a older pickup, it needed some tough love at times. She strode over towards Rarity and gave her a hearty embrace. It was customary amongst the girls to be this close. They all had known each other for so long. “Well, howdy there Rares!” Applejack boomed out as she tightened the hug. Rarity only felt inclined to replicate the tightness of the embrace. Oh, how she wished this feeling would never end. Much to her reluctance, the two pulled away from one another. Rarity craved that touch at times, feeling Applejacks incredibly strong arms around her waist, it made her feel all manner of things, affection, love, attraction, all of the above. Before Rarity could speak again, Applejack followed up with: “I gotta say Rarity, you are looking rather amazin’ today, all dressed up for the last day of term. Though, you always look this good.” Applejack complimented. Even she felt a slight hue grow across her freckled cheeks. One that Rarity most certainly noticed. This made her mind race. “Does… does she feel the same way? Don’t jump to conclusions Rarity.” “Oh darling, that is so lovely of you to say.” Rarity said bashfully. “But I have hardly dressed up nice, simplicity for today, must save the more designer outfits for our two weeks off. I have had much better days than this.” She gestured to herself, whilst giving a slight little turn, showing off her black pencil skirt. Applejack simply responded with a wave of her hand. “I don’t know what you mean sugarcube, you never fail to impress, everyone’s always talkin’ about how glamorous you are, and I’m inclined to agree, ‘sides, as I said, you always look good.” Applejack, once again, complimented Rarity. Giving her a slight tip of her hat as she ended her sentence. She took off her hat for a brief moment, revealing that flock of golden blonde hair, as she ran a hand through it, tidying it up before the ivory skinned woman before her. Rarity at this moment, placed a hand on her cheek, she had noted how incredibly warm it was to the touch. She too, hadn’t lost her glow from this morning. “You are too kind Applejack but thank you.” Rarity swallowed, trying not to stutter out of sudden feeling of nervousness, one of admiration and flattery. None of the other girls’ compliments made her feel this way, only Applejacks. Though, in the act of fairness, Rarity smiled softly and spoke sincerely towards her crush. “But, you yourself, my dear, are looking rather lovely yourself, the tan does wonders for your skin complexion, and the outfit, I always find your country style, so charming, and well, rather flattering to you, as a whole.” Rarity felt her body stiffen slightly. She didn’t want to overstep her mark just in case Applejack was just being friendly. But something about this entire exchange made Rarity grow a semblance of hope, that maybe Applejack felt the same way, about her, as she did towards the farmgirl. Rarity looked towards the ground for a moment, before flinging her hair back, to gaze into those crisp green eyes of Applejack’s. She had noted that upon the freckled cheeks of Applejack, that pink hue, had only grown into a slight red. This made her smile wider. “Aw shucks sugarcube, now you’re just being nice. I know I don’t look half as good as you.” Applejack dismissed her compliment, with a wide grin, and a playful wave of her hand. Rarity took this an opportunity to insist. “Oh, but darling you do! I feel as if I don’t compliment you near enough! You look just as… gorgeous, dare I say.” Rarity said in a lower tone, with a slight fluttering of her sapphire-coloured eyes. Applejack bit her bottom lip in response, her smile only widened. “Oh, Rares I… well… that’s mighty kinda of ya.” Applejack said with a sheepish tone. “That means a helluva lot, coming from you.” She said as she placed a warmed but firm grip upon the petit shoulder of Rarity. The two stood in silence for a moment, both, bashful and blushing. Until the familiar sound of a rather pink, boisterous member of the friendship circle echoed out towards them. “I have to say Applejack, something has been on my mind recently, it was our talk yesterday, regarding these next two weeks. Perhaps we can have a moment to discuss our plans? For the two of us?” Rarity said with a sense of determination, wanting to truly plan these next few days with Applejack, in truth, it was so she could spend more time like this with her, alone, and intimately. To see where these possible feelings could blossom into. Applejack’s eyes widened for a moment in delight. “So, you’re still up for doing’ something just the two of us? Well, why don’t we discuss it over lunch?” “Of course, I am darling, I’d love to spend some time with you over the holidays. And lunch sounds perfect. Gives me enough time to get a scope of what fashion work I must do, we can plan around it, I’m sure.” Rarity responded with her usual chipper tone. Applejack once again closed the gap between the two. Rarity giggled into the embrace and commented: “I must say darling, I don’t think I have seen you this, well, cuddly I suppose.” Rarity said with a playful tone. “What can I say Rare’s? Just excited ‘is all.” Applejack said with that familiar hearty laugh, the one that made Rarity occasionally swoon. This time, she had to keep her composure. She felt the hug tighten once again, as Applejacks arms snaked their war around her back. Her touch was so electrifying, so warm, so perfect. Applejack had noted at how Rarity followed suite once again. The two held each other in perfect silence once again. However, this serenity, this intimacy was suddenly shattered for the two of them. As Pinkies giggle echo out through the carpark of Canterlot High, as she yelled out towards the duo: “HI APPLEJACK, HI RARITY!” Rarity sighed and whispered to herself. “I didn’t want that to end.” Applejack raised a brow and asked: “What ya say sugarcube?” Rarity blushed and coughed slightly. “Oh, nothing dear, just at how Pinkie somehow has this much energy this early in the morning.” “It’s Pinkie, sugarcube.” “Touché.” Bounding up towards the tan and ivory duo, was the roseate skinned, high energy fuzzball that was Pinkie. Her smile was broader than most, as her teeth shone like a beacon. Her eyes wide with energy, as she snorted a giggle, as she stood beside Rarity and Applejack. “Are you two ready? For our two weeks off!? Because I know I sure am. I’m going to have to host a spring party! You two of course are invited immediately! I’ll have to send out invites, plan the décor all of it!” Pinkie spoke in near tongues with the speed of her speech. Her eyes darted between them, as she almost shook on the spot with high energy. Rarity and Applejack, stunned once again into silence, due to the velocity of Pinkies, high speed and high pitched tone of her voice, simply nodded and gently smiled. Applejack was first to speak. “I am sure it’s gonna be a blast Pinkie, heh. When you thinkin’ of hostin’ it then?” She asked, genuinely curious. “A weekend.” Pinkie simply responded, still with that high beam of a smile. “Do you mean as in this weekend, tomorrow, darling?” Rarity asked the second question. In truth, she wanted this weekend free, especially if the possibility of seeing Applejack by herself was on the horizon. “Noooo, nooo of course not silly! That’s WAY too soon. I need to plan! I’ll let you and the girls know ASAP!” She spelled out, as she placed before her hands on her hips, and rocked back and forth on her hips. “Welp, gotta go, see if anyone else is interested! Which I am sure they will be, see you both at lunch!” Without word or warning, Pinkie darted into the main entrance of Canterlot High, she bounced between mutual friends, like Lyra and BonBon and even Vinyl and Octavia. Though, the hinted intimacy was still not able to continue, as the rest of their shared friend group had started to head their way towards the pair. Alongside the usual suspects, stood the newly acquired friends of the Rainbooms, the Dazzling’s, who had been trying their hardest to adjust to their new life here. Truth be told, they seemed gladdened by the fact, that the girls had been so accepting. It was only fair, as they had done the same for Sunset Shimmer a couple of years ago. Applejack offered the group a tip of her hat, as Rarity offered a wave. Both were responded with a collection of waves, hi’s and hello’s. “Hey girls.” Sunsets soft voice started the conversation first. Idle conversation took the first half, all asking how each other was, and what they had been up to, what classes they had first period and so forth. Until Rainbow brokered the question: “So, either of you two have plans for our two weeks off? I know I’ve got plenty, but I defo wanna hang out with all of you guys, as much as I can. We can have some sick hang outs, maybe we could even have a spring getaway at Fkuttershy’s cottage, take in that private land she’s got, host a mean BBQ, you’d work the grill AJ.” Rainbow said as she spurted out her idea to the girls. “Rainbow, you can’t just assume that Fluttershy is going to let us use her private land for a get-together… though, it is a nice idea.” Twilight commented, trailing off as she gazed towards Fluttershy. Who as expected, was gently playing her pastel pink hair, running her dainty fingers through the smaller strands. Fluttershy peeped up and grew a blush. “O-oh I-I don’t mind Twilight. Rainbow is right, I-I think it would be um… nice.” Fluttershy spoke with a tiny smile. Her hushed tone as soft as ever. Sonata stepped forth and gave the pastel yellow reserved girl a tight squeeze. “Thank you Fluttershy! I’m sure we’d love it, especially as I can show you all the yummy recipes I know!” Fluttershy let out a squeal as the younger Siren held her slightly aloft. Adagio and Aria both shook their heads with slight smiles. Rainbow turned her attention to both Rarity and Applejack again. “So, you two game? We can start planning it out right here, right now, we got time before class.” Rainbow asked. This sent a pang of panic in Rarity’s chest, she wanted to plan her days with Applejack first before agreeing to anything. For if they planned a camping trip immediately, then they’d be barely able to spend any of their promised time together. Rarity raised a hand and started to fluster whilst she spoke. “Well, Rainbow, darling, I think it’s a wonderful idea… but um, I… I mean, we, Applejack and I have-.” Rarity was interrupted by a sudden heavy hand on the back, as Applejack reassuringly patted her with her open palm. “What I think Rare’s is tryin’ to say is that she and I have plans we want to figure out first. Seein’ as we did decide on this yesterday. I think the plan is mighty swell Rainbow, and I think it will be a great time, but could you kindly allow Rare’s and I, to sort out our plans first?” Applejack spoke heartily, with her broad usual smile. The girls nodded in response. “Yah, sounds fair.” Aria commented nonchalantly as she tapped away at her phone screen and chewed on a piece of gum. “Besides, we have two weeks remember, we can always do this on the second week?” Sunset suggested. “It will be a nicer way to round off the holiday, besides, it supposed to be better weather in the second week.” She finished offering the collective a smile and somewhat of a plan. Rarity’s heart fluttered as Applejack spoke for her. She was glad that she was able to convey how she felt, almost as if she knew that Rarity was struggling with the right words. The collective of girls made their way into the campus, as soon the bells would sing their cacophony of claxons and alarms, informing that the first period of the day was about to commence. Before Applejack reached for the handle of the double doors, her arm was suddenly grasped by Rarity’s hand. Applejack turned to face the fashionista behind her, and looked at her with both a confused look, and a half smile. “Applejack, I just want to say thank you, for earlier, I couldn’t get the words out. In truth, I was worried that I’d lose the opportunity to spend time with you during our break. So, thank you darling, it was most appreciated.” Rarity said with a warm glow, her heart was beating rapidly in her chest, and was hidden by her slightly controlled breathing. It had done something to her, that act of honesty and speaking out for her. She was unsure as to why, but it meant a lot. The act of it. Applejack offered a hearty smile, flashing her teeth briefly as she patted Rarity’s shoulder. “Naw, don’t worry ‘bout it sugarcube, it’s what friends do right? ‘Sides, we wanted to spend some time together anyways, and I promised you that we’d discuss it over lunch. I don’t break promises, you know that Rare.” She said as she opened the door for her glamorous friend. Rarity giggled at her tone, and started to make her way to the door, when Applejack opened it for her. “Ladies first.” Applejack offered a grin as the door was peeled open for Rarity. The ivory fashionista giggled and patted Applejacks arm gingerly. “Such a charmer.” Rarity cooed as she walked past Applejack, with a slight wiggle in her hips, the usual sway she walked with, was ever so slightly emphasised. A little tease in return for Applejack. She winked back at the farmgirl and sang out: “See you at lunch deary.” Before she headed off for her first class of the day. Applejack was left speechless at the door as it closed behind her. The tease of Rarity’s hips had made her blush furiously. “Y-yeah, see ya at lunch Rare’s.” She said lowly, with a wide grin on her lips as she turned to her locker. She looked on the inside, a tiny little mirror hung from the door. She had noted the increased redness on her freckled cheeks. “Aw shucks, now she got me feeling all gooey.” She said with a slight frown, which soon transformed into a giddy smile. “But damn does it feel good.” She whispered to herself. She glanced out from behind her locker door, checked if anyone was around. And luckily, not a soul. She reached further into her locked and pulled out the small Christmas card she received from Rarity before the winter holidays. Inside it read: Dear Applejack, I am writing this little card, to let you know, how thankful I am that I have the gift of calling you a dear friend. You have done so much for me, more than you could ever possibly know. From your kind-hearted nature, to your graceful honesty, and your general pleasantness. It hurts me gravely that I cannot see you for this winter break, and how much I am going to miss your warmed mulled cider this year. (Save me a bottle!) But most of all, I am going to miss your warming Christmassy nature. I could sure use it. I have been stressed from all the winter fashion shows I have to do in Manehattan. I promise to you, that I will gladly spend some time, not a weekend, but good, quality time. Perhaps Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle and their friend Scootaloo can spend some time together too. Either way, I desperately want to see you again, as well as the other girls. I miss you all terribly. You are the best friend a girl could ask for, Applejack. You mean a lot to me. I cannot wait to be reunited with you all after the Christmas break. From your dear friend, and with love, Rarity. XX. Applejack read the card, over and over again, even missing the first bell of the day as the school halls flooded with students once more. She held the letter to her chest and breathed in deep. Rarity had a bit of calling card when it came to hand written letters, she sprayed them with perfumes of lavender, lilac and all sorts of frilly smells Applejack had come to adore. However, she did not know that she was the only one to receive such scent upon her card, the others received a letter, still wholesomely written, but lacking the scent. “I can’t get her off my mind.” Applejack muttered before she placed the letter back in her locker. Upon slamming the door shut, she was startled to see her younger sister stood beside her. “Hey sis!” Apple Bloom blurted out with her higher pitched southern twanged voice. Applejack jumped again. “Apple Bloom! Quit scarin’ me!” She said sternly, both hands on her hips. “Now, what do you want?” She asked her younger sister. “Nothin’, just saw you ogling that piece o’ paper, what yer got there?” Apple Bloom asked. Much like the rest of the Crusaders, far too nosy for their own good. “Apple Bloom, you can’t keep goin’ ‘round and stickin’ yer nose in everythin’ that you fancy, it’s rude. Some people have private things, and as your big sister, I too, am allowed some privacy.” Applejack retorted as she locked her locker and pocketed her key. Apple Bloom seemed deflated. “But were sisters, we tell each other everythin’.” Apple Bloom said with a saddened expression. “I know I know, but look sugarcube, not everythin’ has to be said, ya hear? We’re allowed private moments, even between us, as sisters, I mean hell, look at yer big brother, Mac. Does he tell us his business all the time? He likes keepin’ to himself.” She commented, and she was right, Big Mac had a habit of being a man of few words. Apple Bloom seemed to understand what Applejack had just said, until a wide grin split across her lips once again. “I’ve only ever seen you like this once before…” Apple Bloom paused as the grin only increased. “And that was when you had a crush that one time…you like someone, don’t ya AJ and that right there is a note from that… very special somebody right?” She asked before she giggled, and her eyes began to widen in excitement. Applejack’s eyes grew in astonishment. “Now how did ya’ll jump to that conclusion?” Applejack said with a flush across her cheeks. Shocked at out how Apple Bloom read her like a book. “Aha! I knew it! Ya’ll get so defensive when you’re hiding somethin’ big sis, catch ya around!” Apple Bloom said as she ran off towards her friends and fellow classmates. “Apple Bloom! No! Get yourself back here, you little… ugh.” Applejack sighed in defeat. “God damnit.” She gently slammed her head against the cool metal of her locker door. Though, at this moment, there was nothing she could do. A lost cause, Apple Bloom, was sure to start gossiping. Applejack grumbled to herself, and with a huff, she set off to her first class, one she shared with Rainbow, Sunset and Adagio. This was bound to be a long day, and it was not just for Applejack, as Rarity took herself to class, she strode past her darling little sister along with her friends, all giggling and whispering. As they passed Rarity all three called out towards her in a mocking, teasing, southern tone. “Howdy Rarityyyy.” All three Crusaders cooed in unison, before they galloped away to their class. Rarity, astonished by this rambunctious behaviour grew a slight tone of annoyance as she shot Sweetie Belle a scowl of discontent. The anger soon subsidized for fear and worry, as she soon realized what the Crusaders had just done. “Oh no…” She gulped, as a few worrisome droplets of sweat formed on her brow. “This is the worst possible thing!” She called out, dramatically, in a near yell. Though her embarrassment only grew as she realised, she was stood beside her classrooms open door. Many of her fellow classmates and dear friends looked at Rarity in slight concern and worry, at her sudden, and rather genuine, outburst of worry and fear. She sheepishly smiled and entered the classroom with Miss Feathers being at the top of the classroom, and gave Rarity a: ‘You, okay?’ look. Rarity simply nodded in response, and groaned as she sat her shared table with Fluttershy, Aria and Sonata. “This is going to be a long day; I just need to see Applejack at lunch first.” Rarity muttered to herself. Her chest rose with deepened breaths. Her palms rested against her face as she shuddered at the thought of the trio of nosy little girls constantly teasing her and Applejack alike. Though, if they teased her by mocking Applejacks voice, did Applejack tell or confess to Apple Bloom… or did Apple Bloom, much like her own little sister, jump to conclusions? It was hard to tell, her own feelings were murky and wild. She had to do something about this before the Crusaders ruined everything. Rarity adored Applejack, no, loved her, with a passion she was unsure herself how to convey with dignity and respect for her dearest friend. Only time would tell. Meanwhile Applejack in her classroom, grumpily flung her bag beneath the table, it landed and struck against Rainbow’s shin. “Ow! Hey careful with that AJ.” She paused. “Seems like somethings got you in huff.” Rainbow commented. Applejack sighed and sat beside one of her best friends, opposite Sunset and Adagio. “I apologise Rainbow, didn’t mean to hurt you there. Just fed up with Apple Bloom is all.” She said in a defeatist nature, as she adjusted her Stetson. Adagio quirked a brow, and gazed at Sunset, who shrugged in response, unsure of what to do or say. “Applejack, I know what it’s like to have annoying, well I guess you could call them siblings.” Adagio commented. The Sirens weren’t blood related but acted like a trio of sisters. “I can help talk to your sister, help put her in her place if she’s annoying you.” Applejack coughed a little and looked at Adagio in the eyes. “Mighty kind of you to offer Adagio, but uh, I don’t think that will be necessary. Apple Bloom, just like the rest of them Crusaders, love stickin’ their noses in where they don’t belong. Dunno why, but it gets under my skin. Just like lyin’, puts a sour taste in my mouth.” She spouted and leant against her chair. Adagio piped up once again. “Ah, little sisters spreading a rumour, is it? Getting in your private matters, being a curious little girl.” “Yeah… hey, how’d you know?” Applejack asked, curiously. A faint hue grew on her face again, worried that word had spread already. “Because I live with Sonata.” Adagio laughed, which in respect, earnt a laugh from each girl on the table. “Well, I am curious, what’s your sister done now?” Sunset asked as she turned her attention towards Applejack, who now, had removed her hat to fan herself slightly. Being the honest she was, and having the truth of her friends, and even trust in her newer friends in the form of the Dazzling’s. “Well… I get real tied up when I wanna keep something secret, and Apple Bloom somehow can read me just like one of Twilights books. I… I uh, like someone, a lot. I care ‘bout them a great deal, and now I think Apple Bloom and her friends are gonna start runnin’ their mouths.” Applejack confessed. The other girls looked on in curiosity and smiles and smirks started to spread across their faces. “So… who is it?” Rainbow asked as she nudged Applejack. “I ain’t tellin’ you that!” Applejack exclaimed. “Come onnnn, we’re besties, I’ve told you that I think Soarin, and even Fluttershy are hot! You can tell us!” Rainbow demanded. “Guy or girl?” Sunset chimed in. “Fine, it’s a girl. I'll say that much.” Applejack confided. “Ooooooh!” Sunset and Rainbow said in unison, before laughing. Adagio brokered a smile and nodded towards Applejack. "Well, my friend, perhaps, if we knew more, we could help you with this... little crush hm?" Adagio whispered in her signature sultry tone. Applejack smiled bashfully at the thought. It was much better support than the three Crusaders running amuck, spreading rumours as they had been known for. Her heart pounded for a moment. Thinking of this would either help or hinder the possible romantic relationship between herself and Rarity. But a little help, or encouragement from her friends would never go amiss. She wondered for a moment if Rarity would do the same. Admittedly she could easily picture Rarity asking for help from Fluttershy or perhaps even Twilight. "Alright girls, just let me... get my bearin's and we can go from there. Cause I ain't gonna lie, she's been on my mind for a while..."