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// The guys have beards 
// Story: Illustrated Shorts 
// by Allonsbro 
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“Hey, Applejack!”
The orange mare looked behind her. “Morning, Rainbow. How you feeling?”
“Pretty good. I’d be better if the baby would quit treating my bladder like an apple tree,” the cyan pegasus replied as she waddled up the hill to join her friend. “How’s the harvest going?”
“Pretty good. I was just taking a quick breather. You sure you should be out and about? It’s an awful long walk to the house.”
Rainbow rolled her eyes. “I swear, AJ, if you go all worried on me, I’ll scream. I get enough of it from Mac.”
“All right,” Applejack replied, waving a hoof to placate her friend. “I’m just looking out for my sister-in-law, is all.”
Rainbow Dash sighed. “I know, sorry for snapping.”
“S’alright. I was a little short-tempered when I had Cobbler, too.”
Rainbow watched as her and Applejack’s stallions worked to bring the harvest of apples. Her eyes stayed especially trained on Big Mac. She watched the red stallion kick a tree with one leg, every apple falling into baskets. She imagined what would happen if he used both legs, how those same hooves that held her with such love and care at night could probably snap a tree in half.
Applejack gave her an odd look as she shuddered. “Are you all right, sugarcube?”
“Yeah,” the pegasus replied dreamily. “You ever notice how awesome Mac’s beard is?”
The orange mare glanced at her brother. “Eh, it’s all right. He’s been really busy lately with work and you and the baby.”
“I don’t know what it is, but since he started growing it, I just can’t keep my hooves off him, you know?”
Applejack grimaced, then translated Rainbow’s point to her husband. “Yeah, I think I get you. I think Soarin’ started growing one because Mac did. I didn’t think I’d like it, but it’s kinda nice. I like how it tickles when he kisses me.”
Rainbow sighed. “Oh yeah, me too. Hey do you, uh, think Mac could get a long lunch break?”
Applejack shrugged. “I don’t see why- wait…ugh Rainbow! That’s my brother!”
“And damn is he hot. Besides, you and Soarin’ can get a long break, too.”
The orange mare smiled. “I guess that’d be nice. I’d be a good time to tell him…”
The rainbow pegasus’ curiosity was piqued. “Tell him what?”
Applejack smiled warmly. “You’re right. I just couldn’t keep my hooves off him with that beard.”
Rainbow’s eyes widened. “You mean you’re…”
“Shh. I’m not sure yet, but I’ve been feeling sick the past few mornings. Keep it to yourself until I'm sure, all right.”
Rainbow nodded excitedly. “Mum’s the word.”
“Thanks.” The orange mare glanced around the orchard. “You didn’t see Fluttershy and Braeburn on your way up here, did you? They were supposed to stop by and help.”
Rainbow smirked. “They’re probably running late. Braeburn’s been growing a beard, too.”