The next day, Rarity sat at the lunch table with all her friends. She looked over at Fluttershy who seemed ready to burst with happiness. As Fluttershy opened her mouth to speak, Rarity’s stomach dropped. “I have great news everyone,” Fluttershy said.
Everyone turned to look at her. Before she could say anything, Rarity quickly said, “They’re having an adoption sale at the shelter!”
Fluttershy frowned at Rarity. “They are?” Sunset asked. “Maybe I should go. I’ve been thinking of getting a pet.”
“You should definitely go,” Fluttershy replied. “But-”
“Fluttershy, darling, could I speak to you for a moment?” Rarity interrupted.
“Um, sure,” Fluttershy said.
The two girls got up and walked to a quiet area of the cafeteria. “What is it, Rarity?” Fluttershy asked.
“I was just hoping we could keep this… thing between us a secret for a little while,” Rarity replied.
“You don’t want to tell our friends?” Fluttershy inquired.
“Not just yet,” Rarity answered.
“I guess that’s okay,” Fluttershy said. “I just don’t want to wait too long.”
“Thank you, Fluttershy,” Rarity said.
Fluttershy nodded and moved to hug Rarity. Rarity quickly stepped back and looked around to make sure no one had seen. When she looked back at Fluttershy, she could see the pain on the other girl’s face. Hugs were common enough in their group. It would have been seen as platonic anyway. She shouldn’t have pulled away. “Are-are you ashamed of me?” Fluttershy asked in a shaky voice.
“No!” Rarity answered quickly.
“Then why…”
“I suppose I’m ashamed of myself. A high society lady is not supposed to like other women.”
“But, when I told you I was gay, you said there was nothing wrong with it. And you seemed really happy for Sunset and Twilight.”
“I stand by that! It’s just, others don’t see it the same way.”
“Everyone always tells me I shouldn’t worry about what others think. Even you!”
“Yes, well, I’m a hypocrite! I’m sorry!”
“I, just, I don’t understand.”
“I’ve always known I’m bisexual, but I’ve spent years pushing down any feelings for girls.”
“Then why did you tell me that you like me?”
“Because I do! I want to be with you, Fluttershy, you have no idea how badly. It’s just, the thought of someone finding out terrifies me!”
Fluttershy took a deep breath and a cautious smile graced her face. “I do know something about getting over things that terrify you,” she said. “It’s all about baby steps.”
Rarity returned the smile. “Yes,” she replied. “Baby steps. What do you suggest first?”
Fluttershy seemed to think about it. “Well, first we should probably tell our friends,” Fluttershy answered.
“Now?” Rarity squeaked.
“No,” Fluttershy said. “You need some time to prepare, but not too much or you’ll work yourself into a frenzy. Maybe at band practice.”
Rarity was still nervous, but she nodded. She would do this. For Fluttershy!