by Honey Mead
***
Celestia awoke to two of the most wonderful smells in the world. The first, only by power, was the distinct aroma of a perfectly brewed cup of Hackney Breakfast Tea. The second, far more subtle scent, was that of her wife's mane.
Moon shown in through the open balcony as her eyes opened to find a pair of smiling, violet eyes a muzzle length away. "Goodmorning, Twilight."
"Happy birthday, Tia." Celestia started to correct her, but Twilight didn't give her the chance. "I know it's not 'technically' your birthday until tomorrow, but you're always so busy, I thought we could celebrate today instead."
She smiled. "Of course, my love." Leaning in, they shared a short kiss, neither wanting to commit to more until after teeth had been cleaned. "And you brought breakfast, I see."
Twilight blushed slightly, scooting back and setting the tea service between them. It was a light breakfast, little more than tea and scones. Celestia's golden magic took the steaming pot and served them.
It was as she brought the cup to her lips, blowing--out of habit, not necessity--that Twilight spoke, "I made it myself."
Celestia's flinch was entirely unnoticeable as she sipped the tea. She had no fear of the tea, years of training had ensured that Twilight Sparkle knew how to brew a proper pot of tea. The scones, however...
"Twilight... I..." Celestia started, eyeing the wedges warily. A quick glance up at the adorable pout on her lovers face broke her will. Bracing herself as best she could, Celestia bit. She chewed. She even managed to swallow, despite her tongues protests.
"Well?" Twilight asked, far too excitedly.
"It's not... bad."
"Oh." Twilight's face fell. "But it's not good either."
"Honestly?"
"Please."
"I've tasted chalk with more flavor." A wing forced the pouting mare to look at Celestia. "Twilight Sparkle, my morning star. You are the most gifted wizard ever born. You are wise in ways you don't realize. You are passionate in everything you do. I love everything about you, from the way you get lost in research, to the way your sexy flanks bounce when your doing it, and the adorable blush you get when I compliment your flanks. I could not dream of a more perfect wife. But, please, please leave the cooking to the kitchen staff."
Once Twilight mumbled her agreement, Celestia continued, "Now, we are going to enjoy this wonderful pot of tea my gorgeous wife brewed just for us, then we are going to take a nice long bath. After that, well, we'll have to see just how long that bath lasts."