Rarity sat alone at Carousel Boutique pondering over recent events. Her heart heavy and her mind full of doubt. She had always wanted to be popular amongst the upper crust of society. Not too long ago, she had succeeded. Her fancy clothes line had grown in popularity. And she now designs clothing for much of Canterlots’ celebrities. Sapphire Shores, Hoity Toity and most, if not all, of the ponies in Fancy Pant’s circle.
Yes, Rarity was definitely climbing the social ladder; however, success in her fashion line was never the issue. It was something else. Deep down, she knew what it was. Companionship. Oh, she had her friends. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Twilight Sparkle. And Rarity would spend any time she had with them. A spa date, simple tea date, she’d even help out with the farm just to be around her dear friends. However, she soon felt that even then, that was not enough. At the end of every day, she would return to an empty home, an empty bed. She would crawl under the covers looking fabulous, and yet, the sting of loneliness would pierce her deeply. It was at these times she would think about her friends and how much she wanted to hold them close as she lay in her bed. Applejack, her strong body pressed close against her, making her feel safe. Pinkie Pie, as she giggled in her sleep, brings a smile to her partner’s face. Loyal Rainbow Dash, who would always be there to greet her as she woke up from her sleep, Fluttershy, the timid pony whose soft wings and fur would caress gently against her own. And Twilight Sparkle.
Twilight. Just her name alone warms her heart. She thought back of all the good times they had together. All the time she felt happy that Twilight was around. A smile appeared on her face. She felt something for that pony. At first, she didn’t want to believe it. At first, she thought it was just a phase. With no stallion in her life, she leaned towards her friends for love and friendship. To fill that deep dark void in her life. But, as they all grew closer, Rarity realized that there was something more about that purple Unicorn. She didn’t want to admit it. But she knew the truth. She did love Twilight Sparkle.
With one question answered, others now crept in its place. What to do about it? How would she approach this issue? Would Twilight feel the same? Would she accept her? Did she want her? What about the others? Would they understand? Would they accept her? And if it did work out between Twilight and herself, would the others accept them? There were so many questions left unanswered.
But there was one question that hit harder then the others. What about Spike? Spike would really be hurt if he knew that she was seeing somepony else. Not to mention if that somepony happen to be Twilight. She pushed it aside for now. Making a mental note to address this issue at a later time.
That night, the usual sting of loneliness was mixed in with doubt and fear. The uncertainty these feelings now stir. Lying in bed, racked with all these emotions, she tossed and turned in bed. However, the only thing she could do now was to try to push these thought away, and try to sleep. Eventually, sleep did come, but it was a very restless sleep.
The following morning, Rarity woke up to a strange and unfamiliar feeling. She felt as if there was somepony with her under the covers, pressing against her. Her mind raced. Who was this? She could not see for she had her sleep mask was still on. Rarity pulled off her mask to look at who was lying beside her. A gasp escaped her lips when she found it was Sweetie Belle, curled up against her.
“Well, it’s not Twilight, but I still love this little filly.” She thought to herself as she put her foreleg over her little sister and pulled her into a hug. Sweetie Belle slowly stirred, a yawn escaping her lips.
“Rarity? Are you alright?” Sweetie belle asked her big sister, concern in her voice.
“Of course I’m alright Sweetie. What would make you think otherwise?” Rarity said, trying to show a sincere smile.
“I came to wake you for breakfast, but I heard you crying. And I felt sad, so I thought I’d snuggle up to you, like mom used to do when I was sad at night.” Sweetie Belle said, looking up at her sister with those big green eyes.
“Aww… Sweetie Belle. That was thoughtful of you dear little sister.” Rarity said, hugging Sweetie Belle close. “But really, I’m alright… Wait, you said breakfast. Did you start cooking?” Rarity asked, a little worried as the thought of a bowl of burnt blackness crossed her mind.
“Nope. I was waiting for you actually.” Sweetie Belle answered with a big smile on her face.
“Well, go on then, I’ll be down in a minute.” Rarity finally said, a sigh of relief escaping her lips.
Sweetie Belle quickly bounced off the bed and headed for the door. Rarity on the other hoof, sat there, sighing at the thought of her little sister curled up next to her. She was happy that Sweetie Belle wanted to cheer her up. However, truthfully, she would have loved it more, if it was Twilight she held. She looked out the window and saw the sun as it slowly began to rise over the horizon.
Finishing breakfast, Rarity started on the dishes as Sweetie Belle strapped on her saddlebags. “Bye Rarity!” Sweetie Belle said as she made her way to school. Rarity simply smiled. How wonderful to be young. To have nothing more than schoolwork to trouble the mind. Finished washing the dishes, Rarity went through her list of things to do. She had nothing till late afternoon, so she decided to take a quick stroll through Ponyville. Maybe to Sugarcube Corner to pick up something for tea. And maybe a chat with Pinkie Pie.
As she closed the door behind her, she spotted Twilight walking towards Carousel Boutique. Her heart skipped a beat. Putting up a brave face, she trotted up to Twilight.
“Good Morning Twilight dear. And where have you been this wonderful morning?” Rarity asked.
“Oh. Good Morning Rarity.” Twilight answered. “I went to see Zecora earlier. I just wanted to ask her for some herbs and that wonderful tea I love so much. Though, she asked me to come back tomorrow evening to collect it.”
“Oh? I see. So what are your plans for the rest of the day?” Rarity asked innocently.
“Well…” Twilight began, “There are a few things I need to take care of. Why do you ask?”
“Oh, no reason really.” Rarity smiled. “Anyway, I have an errand or two to take care of. Talk to you later Twilight.” She said as she batted her eyelids.
Twilight smiled. “Alright Rarity. Talk to you later.” And she began walking towards the library.
When she was out of sight, Rarity galloped towards the Everfree Forest. Specifically, towards Zecora’s hut.