//------------------------------// // Chapter Six: Further On Up The Road // Story: City of Shadows // by GuyGalProductions //------------------------------// Chapter 6: Further On Up The Road Laying on the bed of her hotel room, Fluttershy yet again stared at her cell phone. She bit her lip, as if willing it to do something. Tension filled her body, refusing to let up. Even her breathing seemed erratic, worrying her further. She sat up, her mind reeling, worried all over again. “I’ll try her again… No, no, I’ve already called her twice today. I shouldn’t.” She looked through her phone’s messages, just to see if there were any missed calls that somehow slipped by her radar, but nothing. Sighing, Fluttershy speed-dialed a number on her phone, holding it to her ear. It rang, rang, rang and rang. Nothing. It went to voicemail. “Has she even been to her office today?” She mused, then speed-dialed another number. Nothing. It went to voice mail yet again. “Rainbow, it’s me. I understand that you’re busy, and it’s okay. I just want to make sure everything is all right. Give me a call when you can.” Fluttershy hung up, then sighed as she looked at the time. It was after eight and getting darker outside. She stood, putting on a black wig, a pair of fake plastic glasses, and a jacket. It was time to take action and see what was going on, she was not waiting around anymore. With her disguise on, purse in hand, phone inside said purse; she left the hotel room and headed out into the city. It had been a few days since the suspect had been caught. So far, it looked to be the that the case was wrapping up, at least according to the police. Officer Twilight Sparkle had said that she would keep in touch with them both about it, updating them once they had everything. Especially since a court date was to follow. That was all she knew so far. However, it wasn’t the case that was having Fluttershy worried. It was Rainbow Dash herself. Ever since they’d parted ways a few days ago, when Rainbow said she would go home; the two hadn’t seen each other. Not once. Fluttershy called Rainbow the following day after her apartment was trashed; only for the detective to tell her that she was busy and would call sometime when everything was settled. That was nearly five days ago, now. Fluttershy wondered if something had happened, hoping against all hope that there was a logical explanation for her mysterious absence. When her apartment was trashed, the police declared it an unsafe zone and had to do a thorough search for any evidence. As well as that, it also would need to be cleaned. She was staying at a modest hotel until she was allowed entry back to her apartment, which helped ever slightly since she registered in disguise and under a fake name. While it was said that the suspect they claimed to be Sombra was caught, she still continued to disguise herself for this reason and also because she still wasn’t keen on being recognized. Fluttershy felt a bit better, but knew she couldn’t celebrate until the case was declared over. So far, she didn’t know what was going on any further than what she did know. At the moment, her goal was to find Rainbow, to see her again, and hopefully work things out. XXX It took some time, but Fluttershy had written down the address when she first went with Rainbow to her place. She found it pretty soon enough, in a neighbourhood just off a shopping district. Pretty quiet, a little less lavish than her neighbourhood, but cozy. Before long, she located the apartment building. More specifically, the basement apartment that was supposed to be Rainbow’s. Fluttershy approached the door, raising her hand to knock. No, she had a better idea. Searching around, she found the spare key that Rainbow had showed her, which was hidden under a fake rock near some potted plants. Taking the key, she unlocked the door, replaced the key, and then slipped inside. Quietly, she closed the door behind her, then locked it. “...Rainbow? Rainbow Dash, it’s me. I let myself in with the key. Are you here?” She called in. The apartment was dark, giving off a foreboding vibe. Scattered about the surfaces of the apartment was the detritus of Rainbow Dash’s life. Rifled newspapers, empty take out containers of all manner of size and description… and most alarmingly, a large number of empty bottles that from their labels most certainly contained alcohol of various types. “Rnnnngh…” came a groan, issued from further within the room. Once adjust to the gloom, Fluttershy’s eyes made out an unmistakable silhouette resting upon the couch. Disheveled, dirty, and half passed out… it was still Rainbow Dash. Eyes wide, Fluttershy all too immediately rushed to her side. Worry filled her to the core, especially upon seeing that a bottled rolled out of her hand. She turned on a nearby lamp, getting a good look at her. “Rainbow… Rainbow, oh my goodness… are you all right?” She asked, trying to keep her voice from breaking. “Ah! Dammit turn out that fucking light!” Rainbow snapped, not registering yet who her guest was and shielding her eyes from the sudden brightness. Her hand wiped blindly in the lamp's direction, fumbling lamely for several moments before finally gaining once more the precious darkness she sought. “Sorry… R-Rainbow…. Are you drunk?” Fluttershy asked, worry in her tone. “Wha… I… Fluttershy?” Rainbow slurred, her eyes recovering from the shock of the sudden bright light. Fluttershy nodded, taking the other woman’s hand, “Yes, Rainbow… it’s me. I came to see you. I haven’t seen you for a few days, or even heard from you. I was worried…” Rainbow looked at her, making eye contact for a brief second, even in this darkness it was clear her eyes were red and bloodshot. “Shouldn’t have come…” She mumbled, averting her gaze once more from Fluttershy “...I’m a selfish little bitch… I’m going to use you… that’s what I’ve always done….” “No!” Fluttershy uttered, getting onto the couch next to her, “Rainbow, you’re not thinking clearly. You’re not using me. You never did.” “I will!” Rainbow almost shouted, “...I didn’t return your calls!.. I was bitter and mean because I wasn’t the one to save you… because I got bested by some flat foot… No I’ll just use you like all the women I use… all the girls I scoop up from the bar, and dazzle with my dark and mysterious life…” Rainbow’s voice turned to a hollow desiccated thing. “...How many of their calls did I return…but…. but I don’t want to give you up, Fluttershy...I… I don’t want to hurt you…” “Then why didn’t you just call me?” Fluttershy half-yelled, not in anger, but in sadness. “I was not going to hold any of this against you! Just because things turned out differently doesn’t mean I-no! No… I still wanted to see you. I wouldn’t be here right now if it wasn’t for you.” Rainbow Dash ran a hand through her greasy unwashed hair, the logic of things holding little sway in her clouded mind. “...Look what I’m doing to myself...how could you want to tie yourself to this… it was all fun and games before...but this… this is the real me…” “Did all of it mean nothing to you?!” Fluttershy yelled, tears streaming down her face, “Is that it?! Was everything a…. a lie?! So what if you didn’t save me? I-I don’t care! I just wanted you there with me! Everything is better and we can be together if we want to when they declare it over… What has changed? What happened?! Why is it suddenly different?! Did our time together not mean a thing to you? Were all those smiles, laughter, and sweet words… just a game to you?” She felt her heart sink, her anger rising, but dissipating all the same. She couldn’t be angry, she was only upset, confused, and wanted answers. “That’s right… be angry…. I deserve it…” Rainbow said in a small voice, turning away from Fluttershy, “...It wasn’t though-... no… no… I shouldn’t...but I have too… It wasn’t a lie… I really did enjoy our time together… It was awesome… it was real… I care about you… and… and I want you...but I shouldn’t… because I could hurt you… I don’t… I don’t know any more...why don’t I know… why am I doing this to myself… to you…” “Then don’t!~” Fluttershy yelled, advancing on her. “Fluttershy…” Rainbow curled into a tight ball on the couch, “Everything is spinning...I...I can’t keep it straight…” “No… You listen to me…” Fluttershy began to sob, kneeling next to her curled form on the sofa, “Just stop all of this. Stop it! Nothing has changed! You’re holding yourself back, this is not helping anything. I haven’t seen you for the past few days and I’m worried! I am not going to give up on you just because you’ve given up on yourself! If you care about me, if our time together meant anything to you… then please, do something. Don’t let this happen! You can’t do that to yourself. Not when you can be happier, have a better life… Please, I can’t let you do this to yourself… What do you want? Just… what do you want from me? What are you holding yourself from that you kept yourself from me? What do you want from me?!” There was no response for a few moments, or minutes. Fluttershy wasn't sure how long it had been, but it was long enough. Her mind reeled with worry, attempting to resolve at just leaving. She was not getting any answers, but she also didn't want to leave. What if it were best? At least she knew Rainbow Dash was alive, if a bit out of it. Shaking her head, Fluttershy made a move to stand up, only for a hand to grab her sleeve. “...Don’t leave me…” Rainbow whispered in a voice so small it could barely be heard. “...They always leave me…Please don’t leave...” Right then, Fluttershy’s heart just shattered. She looked to the broken, scared, saddened woman, all the more tearful. To think that all of this could break down the strong, determined, dark past Rainbow Dash. To think she was capable of this kind of pain. But she was only human, after all. There had to be tough moments. All things considered, it made sense. That didn’t make it any less painful to see. Fluttershy could feel her body collapsing with despair and sympathy, devoid of anything around her. There was only her friend, the woman she was falling in love with. The woman she’d enlisted for help. Then to hear her beg, beg for her to stay, to never leave her. Not only were their days apart, in the way that they were with no contact hard on Rainbow, as she could see; it was terrible. It broke the strong woman in a way she never expected. “Rainbow…” Fluttershy cooed, sadly, and crawled over to her. With all of her strength, she helped the woman up, then hugged her tightly. “I’m here now, I’m here…. I won’t leave you. You didn’t even have to go… I didn’t want you to, but I wasn’t going to hold you back if you needed it. But I won’t leave you again, I-I missed you so much. I wasn’t just worried, I missed you. I know that I don’t have anything to fear right now, but I felt so alone. So unsafe. Like something was missing. It sounds ridiculous, I know, but I know how I feel. Rainbow Dash… I truly meant everything I said. Having you with me is wonderful. The past two days we were together, I felt better than I ever did in such a long time. They were by far two of the best days of my life. I don’t want to lose you, I want to be with you. So, I promise I won’t leave you. I can’t.” The timid woman sobbed, softly, and looked into the eyes of her friend. Touching her cheek, Fluttershy leaned in, just about to truly show her how much she- Rainbow’s hand shot up between their mouths, causing her to kiss her palm, instead. “S-sorry...but… Not yet…” Rainbow said sadly yet firmly, with a conviction that had been previously lacking. “...Not like this...when I’m like this… when I can barely see straight… you deserve better than that… and I can at least do something about that…” Rainbow did however lower her hand, and embraced Fluttershy. Rainbow held her closer to her, resting her chin on the taller woman’s shoulder. “Thank you… thank you so much…” Unable to even feel disappointed, Fluttershy hugged her back tightly. She nuzzled into the other woman’s shaggy hair, stroking it gently with her hand. “You’re welcome. I made a promise to you, I let you know that you weren’t alone. You never would be again… And I’m a woman of my word. I’ll stay here, with you, I promise. I’ll just have to retrieve my belongings from the hotel. I’ll go-no, we’ll go together. We’ll go retrieve them tomorrow morning.” “Thank you…” Rainbow repeated again, wobbling a bit on her feet, the effects of the alcohol in her blood now feeling more like a toxin polluting her mind and body and less like a voluntary escape. ”...I… I think I need to sit down again…” Fluttershy stood, brought the other woman into her arms, and brought her to the bedroom, carefully. There, she carefully lay her onto the bed, making sure she was comfortable. “Is this better?” She asked. Rainbow looked up at Fluttershy with a sort of astonishment. It had been entirely too long since anyone had truly ever done something like that for her… taking care of her out of simple kindness… “Much… much better…” Rainbow said, ”Fluttershy… I know I’m in danger of becoming a broken record...but thank you…” Smiling, Fluttershy exited the room. She went to the small kitchen area, fishing around for a glass, and filling it with some water. Coming back into the bedroom, she sat on the bed, carefully sitting her friend up. “Here, have some water,” she said tenderly, holding the glass to her lips. Rainbow drank, placing her hands over Fluttershy’s on the cup. She felt the cool water slide down her throat. Slowly the spinning began to stop, her mind returning to her. ‘This… this is so nice… She’s taking care of me… just like I did for her, I suppose, but no one has done anything like this for… not in a long long time… I feel so stupid… this is all my fault… Ugh! I feel so guilty… taking such pleasure in Fluttershy cleaning up after my mistake… no… don’t go down this road again, just accept her kindness and move forward or you’ll wind up in the same spiral all over again…’ Smiling at their hands touching, Fluttershy kissed her temple, nuzzling her, “You’re going to be okay now, Rainbow. I’m here with you, and I won’t leave you alone again. Just so long as you don’t leave me, either…” Finishing the water, Rainbow looked up into her eyes once more, “Never, ‘Shy...I won’t leave your side again… I’m so sorry for putting you through this… but it’s going to be okay… I’m going to make it okay.” “Good,” Fluttershy held her closer, placing the glass aside. “Thank you, too. Tomorrow, I’ll help you clean this place up, and we’ll get you going again.” “Mmm’kay Fluttershy…” Rainbow mumbled, her eyes drifting closed. “...Will you sleep in bed with me...Couldn’t… couldn’t sleep as well without you…” The pinkette was touched, nodding as she lay them down onto the bed, snuggling next to her. She curled up behind her, bringing her arm around her middle to serve as the big spoon. “Of course, Rainbow. I’d love to. ...You know, I couldn’t sleep well, either. Even though I’ve spent a majority of my life sleeping alone in my bed… After one night of sleeping in your arms, I was tossing and turning the past few nights.” Rainbow nodded slowly, crossing her arms over Fluttershy’s own, “...Me too...Fluttershy...me too…” The prismatic woman’s breathing soon became deeper and more regular, falling into a peaceful sleep for the first time since coming to rest in her own bed. Fluttershy smiled, kissing the back of her neck gently and holding her closer. The entire ordeal had been an emotional roller coaster like no other, ever since the moment they met. But if Fluttershy could do it all over again, she would. Tonight had been no different, as the heights of their emotional commitment were challenged. She trembled ever slightly, but a wash of comfort overtook her form. Tonight, she was the one being the protector, the one to help the emotionally broken down woman she cared for. Taking a breath, she too closed her eyes, allowing her body to relax. ‘It’s true, isn’t it… I really am falling in love with her… Now we can move on with our lives and make everything better… Maybe I’ll even go with her to her office, to help her out with any case she might have next. Of course, it’ll be exciting… And I hope she knows that even if she didn’t catch him… She still is my hero… She did save me. Without her, I wouldn’t even be here, I wouldn’t have made it this far… She did still save me… she always has.’ Very softly, she whispered, “You are my saviour, Rainbow Dash… you always were. Don’t forget that…” With that, she slowly fell asleep as well. XXXX Sunlight poured through the high windows of the basement apartment’s bedroom, illuminating the slumbering form of Fluttershy… alone in Rainbow Dash’s bed. From outside the little bedroom, the clanging of pots and pans could be heard, singing out a clunky little symphony. After a little while, the apartment was once again filled with silence, save for the gentle snores of the ex-model. The bedroom door creaked open, and in crept Rainbow Dash, wearing a t-shirt, panties, an apron, and a smile. In her arms she was carrying a food-laden tray in her arms. “Wakey wakey, Fluttershy,” the detective said in a slightly hoarse whisper, “I have a surprise for you~” A sleepy moan sounded from Fluttershy, to which she sat up and rubbed her eyes. She yawned, opening her eyes and fixating on her curiously. “...Rainbow?” Rainbow practically shoved the tray of food into Fluttershy’s lap, grinning excitedly, “ I made you breakfast! I’m sure it can’t quite measure up to your cooking, but I think I can do a pretty damn good job. French toast, maple syrup - no fresh fruit, sorry - with a side of bacon and some delicious fresh OJ!” “Oh!” Fluttershy looked down at the tray, surprised at the spread. But she smiled, looking up at her friend gratefully, “Gosh, Rainbow…. This is so sweet of you, thank you… Um, but what’s the occasion?” “The occasion is that you pulled my ass out of the fire,” Rainbow said, giving her a self assured little smile, her hands on her hips and standing over her guest. “It may not have been a real fire, but it was burning me nonetheless.” Her little smile grew into a wide grin. “Do you like my apron, Flutters?” Fluttershy finally took in her appearance, as well as the apron. It was absolutely adorable. The apron itself was a simple plain black number, while the string in the back was a rainbow pattern. On the neckline was an adorable little rainbow-patterned bow, further accentuating it. “Yes, I do. It’s a very nice apron,” Fluttershy smiled. Her eyes curiously wandered along Rainbow’s body, only to stop dead in their tracks. It finally registered to her that Rainbow was not wearing anything else but a t-shirt and panties. This left her legs completely exposed. For such a short woman, she had very long legs. They were toned, but slender, looking like she worked out a lot with them. What especially added to her charm was the tan olive tone to her skin, which until now, had been scarcely seen. Adding to that, her t-shirt was right, barely reached the waistline of her panties, and was very tight. Even with the apron, it left nothing to the imagination, and was clear that she wasn’t wearing a bra. It was a cyan blue t-shirt, popping against her tan olive skin. Fluttershy stared, unable to look away, taken aback by the beauty of the detective. It was reminding her that she was sexually attracted to this woman. She trembled, eyes locked, having to fight off any and all urges to make some kind of move. “I thought I’d give you something to feast your eyes on while you eat breakfast~” Rainbow cooed to her, her tone the very picture of flirty. “Ooh….” Fluttershy blushed immensely, feeling a tingle run through her body. She shakily tried to eat, but her eyes were glued to the beautiful legs of the other woman. ‘I think I’d rather have YOU for breakfast...’ ‘Hmmm… I suppose the case is wrapping up… and she is definitely not here as part of the jobs… I think it’s safe to flirt a bit more~’ Rainbow thought with a smirk as she planted one foot firmly on the bed, striking a pose for Fluttershy. “How is everything?” Rainbow asked innocently. Swallowing harder than she intended, Fluttershy blushed more and managed to find her voice, “I-It’s… very good. The syrup… i-is nice, too…” She felt a shiver run up her spine, her eyes glued to the position of her amazing legs. ‘Oh my gosh… Was she never a model? That’s an amazing look on her…’ “Good. If you didn’t like a good maple syrup I might have to kick you out of my bed,” Rainbow said with a giggle, finally sitting herself on the edge of the bed, yet still looking no less appealing without even trying. ‘Is she trying to seduce me? It’s working...’ Fluttershy took another bite of food, this time of the bacon, liking the taste. “It’s a very nice product you bought of it…” She blushed. “Hey, if you’re gonna get bacon, you gotta get the good stuff,” Rainbow laughed happily, eyeing the pinkette as she ate. “Eat up, Fluttershy… Enjoy yourself. You deserve it.” ‘Oh, I am enjoying myself...’ Fluttershy’s gaze, still focused on the attractive woman before her, finished up her breakfast, and drank down her juice. “That was… delicious…” She murmured, eyeing her legs and body up and down some more. “Good, because I think I have something else you might enjoy,” Rainbow said grinning wide, her recent redemption at the hands of Fluttershy had imparted in her a new zeal for life. “I checked my messages while I was cooking and… well… I’ve got a new case, that is to say… I think WE have a new case~” “We… We do?” Fluttershy repeated, her eyes darting from meeting Rainbow’s and all over her body. “...You want me to work on the case with you?” “You said if I ever needed the tips and tricks you learned as a model...” Rainbow said excitedly, “How do you feel about crashing a swanky party?” “Okay… Well, what’s the case?” Fluttershy asked. “Or rather, do we have to meet with the client?” “Yeah, in-person consultations are always good, settles the clients nerves.” Rainbow said, enjoying sharing her craft with Fluttershy, “It seems like an easy job on the surface. Some muckety-muck in fashion world… what's'isname…. Shiny Shorts?… no that’s not it…” “Fancy Pants?!” Fluttershy spoke out in shock, wide-eyed, “... I know him, a little bit. He was a sponsor of Photo Finish, and he’s a very big name in the city’s socialite world.” “That’s the guy!” Rainbow said beaming. “Wow, guess this really is the perfect case for both of us. So he thinks his wife is stepping out on him, so our job is to find the proof.” “I see… Well okay, we’ll meet with him, and we’ll see what we can do,” Fluttershy said, giving a little smile. “The plan is we follow her to one of these high society mixers, snap a few photo’s and give Fancy a leg up in the divorce proceedings or whatever,” Rainbow said with a bit of a shrug. The situation was a bit sad, but at the same time she was excited to go undercover with Fluttershy. Fluttershy nodded, “Well, all right. I’d love to help.” “Alright then,” Rainbow said with renewed vigor, “I set the meeting up for later today, so we should probably get decent, and I know for certain that I need a shower.” ‘I’ll take it with you...’ Fluttershy wanted to say. She blushed immensely at the thought regardless, nodding. “O-Okay, then…” “Alright well I’m off to do that. Gather up anything you wanna bring, we saddle up in 45 minutes,” Rainbow said hopping off the bed, and walking towards the bathroom, “Oh Flutters? Enjoy the view~” She said wiggling her hips as she walked away. Fluttershy fell back a bit, wide-eyed, her eyes yet again trained on her body. She trembled, especially as a hot tingling resulted between her legs. ‘Don’t tempt me, Rainbow…! I won’t be able to control myself before long! Of course she did that on purpose… she knew it… Oh, goodness I want her so bad...’ Once the bathroom door closed, Fluttershy relaxed ever slightly. She looked down, recalling that she was in her clothes from yesterday. Looking at the time, she could see that they would have time to retrieve her belongings and bring them back here before they’d head to the office. Getting out of bed, she made it properly, arranging the pillows along the way. As well as that, she tidied up the bedroom, tossing clothes into the hamper, picking up books and placing them on the desk, anything else that was strewn about. Stepping on something, she lifted her foot and saw that it was a fashion magazine. But not just any one. It was a special edition filled with photos of her all throughout. Fluttershy picked it up, remembering this issue of Equestria Fashion. At the time she was a model, this had been the best-selling issue for over a month. Even the cover was a glossy photo, with her looking at the viewer with a frightened, but enticing open-mouthed look. ‘She did say that she admired my work. I guess it’s no surprise that she has some magazines that featured me,’ Fluttershy thought. As she looked it over, she could see that it was a bit worn. Still in good condition, but clearly indicating that was it read. A lot. Considering that a good portion of the photos were very sensual, she could only imagine exactly why. ‘I wonder how many times she’s pleasured herself to my photos...’ She smiled at the thought. The sound of the showers cut off and Rainbow emerged from the bathroom, dripping wet and robed only in a towel. She stretched her arms above her head. “Whew, nothing makes you feel human again like a nice steamy shower.” “Yes, that’s-” Fluttershy looked up at her. The magazine fell from her hands. ‘Rainbow…. in a towel…! All wet… in a towel… Under that towel she’s… oh my gosh...’ Fluttershy stared, wide-eyed, cheeks as pink as her hair. Rainbow smirked, her arms still in the air. “Well, see something you like there, pretty girl?” Though Rainbow’s cocky smirk was interrupted as her towel slipped and nearly fell from her completely. Rainbow moved to catch it, but in the process more than few glimpses of her could have been seen. “Oops! Okay, that one wasn’t on purpose.” Rainbow laughed. Taking a step back, Fluttershy was completely conflicted. All she wanted to do was throw Rainbow onto her bed and ravish her like crazy. But the other half of her was telling her to wait, either because she was still unsure of the case or because she wanted it better than this. Either way. her eyes would not leave the exposed areas of Rainbow’s skin, as she stood, dripping wet, looking beautifully sexy. ‘She’s really doing this on purpose… She’s trying to wind me up! Oh no, is she getting me back for some of the things I said? Or because she was seduced by me without my knowing?’ “Yes…” Fluttershy squeaked, her cheeks pinker. Rainbow managed a little grin and continued on into her bedroom, “Well I’m going to get changed, so you can either take a ringside seat of wait out in the other room. Your choice.” ‘Take it… Go for it… You can finally see her-NO! Not yet, it’s too soon! I shouldn’t, I shouldn’t, I can’t...’ Fluttershy thought, trying to keep her breathing in check. Rainbow looked at her, finding the indecision on her face to be just adorable, “Tick tock, Flutters. This towel’s coming down in …..5….4….3…” “No! I’d love to, but not like this!” Fluttershy cried, cheeks pink, turning away. “Get dressed, get ready, and we’re going! ...I just need to use the bathroom…” Not waiting for an answer, she ran into the bathroom and shut the door behind her. Rainbow sighed a bit to herself, not sure if she was relieved or disappointed. She did however feel a slight twinge of guilt. Rainbow hadn't intended to cause her any real distress, just tease her a bit, more as a reward than anything else… Rainbow sighed, dropped the towel, and began getting dressed. She pulled on the familiar shirt, tie, jacket and hat. It had been a while but she was finally feeling like her old self again. In the bathroom, trying to cool herself down, Fluttershy looked at herself in the mirror. ‘What am I even doing? She’s just teasing me… She’s more comfortable being flirty and there I am blowing her off… She’s not trying to dangle a carrot in my face, she just wants to bring things further without going too far. All she did was … give me something...’ Running a hand through her hair, she did her business, washed up, and came back out into the main room. Finding Rainbow standing at the table, looking over a newspaper. Fluttershy slowly approached her, plucked the hat off her head, placing it onto the table, and hugged her from behind. “Hi, Dashie…” She cooed into her ear, snuggling her, “Oh… I’m sorry about all that. You were just being a little tease, weren’t you? Aww, you’re adorable. But I have to say, no one has ever wound me up like you do, usually it takes more than that. But I just hope you’re prepared to deal with the consequences~” Fluttershy giggled, kissing her cheek. “Mmmm, I can’t wait,” Rainbow said with a smile on her lips. She couldn’t remember the last time anyone had been so sweet to her. The tenderness of it all was enough to fill her with a warmth that radiated from her chest outward to her toes and her finger tips. She placed her arms over Fluttershy’s, her fingers stroking the soft skin of her arms. “I think we might wanna hold off on that for a little,” Rainbow said wistfully, her every desire fighting her words. “If we start with that we not be able stop ourselves in time to make our appointment. So what do ya say we keep it in our pants for just a little longer.” Fluttershy exhaled, squeezing her a little. She wanted to say screw it all and just act out every bit of desire they had. Especially considering how wound up she felt. Of course, she also knew Rainbow was right. They had an appointment to keep and other such things to get done that day, “Oh, you’re right… I know….” The pinkette murmured, tracing her hands along Rainbow’s stomach, teasing her, “But do be careful… next time, I don’t think that towel will protect you at all~” “Heh… sorry about that,” Rainbow said with sheepish little smile. “Sorry for being such a giant tease, but I knew you’d enjoy a little preview of things to come.” “I don’t just like what I saw… I loved it…” Fluttershy cooed suggestively into her ear, tightening her grip gently. “You are such a beautiful woman~” Rainbow licked her lips, part of her wishing Fluttershy wouldn’t never let her go and drag her right into the bedroom. “I’m glad you loved what you saw then… because you’ll be seeing it a whole lot in the days to come.” “Mmm… And you’ve seen plenty of photos of me. I just… quit before they got to be too much. But that’s just as well, isn’t it? You’ll not only be the only one to ever see all of me… but you’ll have the real me… Better than any photo spread or cover issue,” Fluttershy giggled, kissing her other cheek. “Oooo… yeah… I’d always hoped to maybe see all of you… but you’re right this… this is WAY better than a dirty magazine,” Rainbow said, now beginning to understand how Fluttershy felt being teased. “Yay!” Fluttershy came around to her front, embracing her, “Oh, you’re amazing! Let’s get today going-together~” “Yeah,” Rainbow said, squeezing her tight, “Let’s get things going.” About to let her go, Fluttershy hesitated, debating whether or not to go for it. They were so close, the moment was almost perfect, and it would be just one little kiss. So long as they didn’t get carried away or full of tension. Then again, all things considered, Fluttershy had a pretty good feeling that if they did fully kiss, they wouldn’t leave the apartment. It would be an uphill battle. There was so much between them that enabling it further would cost them the day they had planned. So she leaned in, kissing her cheek, just barely brushing the corner of her mouth. “I’m ready when you are.” Rainbow smiled, the feeling of Fluttershy’s kiss had left a wonderful warmth on her cheek. She took a moment, considering kissing her right then and there… wanting to kiss her right then and there… She leaned in close, and then hesitated, landing the kiss on her cheek instead. ‘Way to wuss out Dash,’ She thought to herself. XXXX Later on that day, the two were at Dash’s office, having tidied it up and looked over everything before their client arrived. Fluttershy felt it was surreal to be within Rainbow’s office again, the very place they first met. The place she’d come to in seeking help. Now, they were working together, like partners. She didn’t know what to expect, but felt excited. She even had to admit, watching Rainbow at her desk, shadowed in the dim light of the room, with the rain going on outside; she looked every bit of a film noir detective. The former model couldn’t help but find this very intriguing and attractive. “Well…” Fluttershy spoke up at some point, making conversation, “I definitely am looking forward to this. It’ll be very interesting to work on a case together. I-I know we’re not formally partners, but I’ll certainly do my best to help.” “Why don’t you come sit with me?” Rainbow said, smiling, “Pull up a chair, we’re working this one together after all.” Noticing a chair nearby, Fluttershy pulled it up beside Rainbow’s, taking a seat, “Sure…” Rainbow beamed at her, not caring that it slightly spoiled the image of the ‘brooding noir detective.’ “This is going to be awesome, I just know it.” “I’m excited,” Fluttershy giggled, smiling more. “This is going to be so interesting.” “Mhmm,” Rainbow agreed, “Fun too, I mean we get to make a splash in high society. That’s a first for me.” “Not for me, but I’ll definitely help you with that,” Fluttershy promised. This was when there was a knock at the door. Which opened, revealing a tall man in a suit. He approached, giving them both a warm, kind smile. He had light blue hair, a matching moustache, and a monacle. “Good afternoon, ladies,” Fancy Pants said kindly, speaking in a classy foreign accent and took notice of Fluttershy, “Ah, Fluttershy! I haven’t seen you in months, my dear. How have you been?” “Oh… I’ve been all right, Fancy Pants… It’s very nice to see you again,” Fluttershy smiled at him warmly. Of all the things in her modeling career, she always liked him. Even though he was rich and into the high society thing, he was a lot more kind, understanding and even laid back, considering he was always fascinated by common elements. “As it is to see you, quite a coincidence,” Fancy Pants chuckled, turning back to the detective, “Miss Dash, it’s certainly wonderful to finally meet you.” “Nice to meet you too, Mr. Pants,” Rainbow said as professionally as she could, holding her hand out across the desk, “I hope that we can help you with your situation.” Fancy Pants shook her hand, then took a seat at the chair in front of the desk, “I had done research on the cases you had solved, Miss Dash. As I’ve seen, your abilities are quite remarkable. That being said, of course, I will get to the matter at hand. As I said in my message, I am to believe that my wife, Fleur de Lys, is being unfaithful. I, however, cannot prove it and the police have stated that they have no evidence. I was hoping with your ways of going about obtaining information, that you could see to catching her in the act, in some sort of way.” “Do you have information we need to know?” Fluttershy asked, “And for that matter, how do you propose we do so?” The man reached into his briefcase, bringing out a couple of files and placing them onto the desk, “Here is information of her that you may need to know. Beyond that, I do know that she will be attending a party at the Riverside Country Club tomorrow night. I, however, cannot make it as I am needed in Trottingham first thing in the morning. I think it would be an excellent place to keep an eye on her.” Rainbow took the files, thumbing through them, “So did I. I’ve done my research as well, placed a few calls, and it appears that this particular soiree is the event of the social season, for at least the next few months or so. I was thinking we could trade on Fluttershy’s celebrity, say we’re looking to join the club and wrangle a couple invites. From there all we need to do is snap a few photos and we are good as gold. Easy-peasy.” “It won’t be a problem, either,” Fluttershy chimed in, “I’m a member of the club and I didn’t get around to handing in any withdrawal. Plus, I liked the location and its beautiful gardens.” “Hey, that saved us a phone call,” Rainbow said grinning. “Way to go Fluttershy~” “Excellent, then!” Fancy Pants gave a hearty laugh, “You seem to have a good foothold into making entrance into the party. Acquiring invitations will not be an issue; as most of them do have a plus one incentive.” Fluttershy nodded, “That’s true, they usually do. Rainbow, you have fake identifications, don’t you?” “Yeah, no worries, I won’t be attending as Rainbow Dash P.I.,” Rainbow said with a grin, “I got an ID for all occasions. Let’s see… How’s about…” Rainbow put on a light accent, “...Miss Prism, high born entrepreneur? My specialty is obscure antiques that no one could possibly call my bluff on.” Rainbow’s voice returned to it’s usual smoky cadance. “You’d be surprised how often that one works. An accent, a giggle, and a flirt has gotten me past more security personnel that you could ever know.” Even Fluttershy had to shudder a bit, which made her smile, “That’s very good, Rainbow.” “Indeed,” Fancy Pants agreed, smiling, “Had I not known you, even I would believe it. You certainly have it down to an art, Miss Dash.” “Necessity is the mother of fraud, or at least that’s how I think that saying goes,” Rainbow said with a chuckle. “I think so,” Fluttershy giggled, “Well, then I think we have what we’ll need, right?” Fancy Pants stood up, “I shall be returning in three days time, to which I will call you.” “Sounds good to me, I’m sure I’ll have what you need by then,” Rainbow said rising with him, “Don’t worry about a thing.” The pinkette got up too, “We’ll make sure of that, Fancy Pants. You can count on us.” Smiling, Fancy Pants then retrieved something else from his briefcase, along with a pen from his pocket. It was a chequebook, which he wrote onto, ripped a piece, and then placed it on the desk. “Here you are, an advance for half of which your rate is. I shall pay you the rest when the case is closed.” Rainbow took the cheque and placed it aside, pushing down the urge to look it over, a practice she had learned to be just plain rude. “Thank you very much. Safe travels, Mr. Pants.” “All the best,” Fluttershy said sweetly. Giving them both a nod, he went to the door, “And I thank you two very much for your time. Good luck, of course,” smiling once more, he left the office and closed the door behind him. Rainbow turned to Fluttershy, beaming brightly, “It’s official, we got ourselves a case!” “We… We do!” Fluttershy giggled, beaming as well, “I can’t believe it! This is amazing!” “Excited?” Rainbow grinned, reveling in her cheer. Nodding, the timid woman embraced her, “Oh, yes. I have to thank you for this opportunity~” “We’re gonna try and get you your life back, right? Well, I figure, why not start with an exciting new career?” Rainbow said giving the pinkette a little squeeze. Eyes sparkling, Fluttershy’s smile grew, “You’d really take me on as your partner?” “Definitely Flutters,” Rainbow said, “Granted you’re new to the streets, but occasionally a fresh face can be an asset. Plus you’ll bring an interesting viewpoint, and you have all kinds of access I don’t.” “Oh… Rainbow! Thank you!” Fluttershy hugged her tighter, having to resist the urge to kiss her. “That would be wonderful! I’d love to be your partner…” “And I’d love to have you as my partner,” Rainbow replied cheerfully. “Besides, above all else you’re my friend, and I can’t think of what might make me happier than to have you close all day.” Unable to hold tears back, Fluttershy hugged her closer and snuggled, “Rainbow Dash… I-I don’t know what to say… You’re wonderful… Amazing… There are no words to describe my gratitude. You have done so much for me, and you’ve given me my life back. I don’t know where I’d be if it wasn’t for you. I would love nothing more than to be close to you, by your side on the job. Thank you…” “No problem, Fluttershy, I mean it.” Rainbow said, wiping away some of her tears with her thumb. “This is the start of something wonderful, mark my words.” ‘I love this woman… I’m not just falling in love, I don’t just have feelings… I love her. She’s the greatest thing ever to happen to me...’ Fluttershy tightened her grip, “I-It is… It really is, Rainbow… The most wonderful thing I could ever ask for.” “You’re the most wonderful thing I could ever ask for,” Rainbow said softly, “You are the most amazing woman, my total dream girl, and nicer than anyone I’ve ever met. I’m happy to have you by my side, amazingly happy.” Blushing more, Fluttershy nuzzled into her neck, “I’m so happy to be by your side, more than I can ever say.” “Don’t worry, you don’t have to say it,” Rainbow said holding her close, “I think I know~” ‘I don’t have to… I know we love each other… We don’t have to say it… Maybe not now, but sometime...’ Fluttershy nuzzled her cheek, “I know, too~” Rainbow smiled and reached up to stroke her hair, not saying anything in this moment, just simply letting their unspoken bond speak for itself. Fluttershy blushed, smiling more and reaching over to do the same.