> Tending a Blossom
>  by Steel Quill
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter One
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“That'll be 15 bits, Miss Vera. Do you want a paper or plastic bag?”

“Plastic is fine, Amber. It will last longer that way.” Across the register, the orange-maned mare nodded and bagged up the gathered fruits and vegetables. Opposite her, her customer opened her coin purse and laid out the needed bits for her goods. Grocery shopping was more habit than chore now, her siblings rarely changing their wants and making it easy to predict their requests. If anything, having a change to the routine would be curious, and almost welcomed.

“How have your sisters been? Busy with keeping us all pretty, I'm sure?” Amber asked.

“It is a never-ending labor, but one we take to well,” Vera said, smiling as she took her bags. “Have a nice day, Amber!”

Walking out of the market stall, Vera Blossom kept her bags hanging from one arm, the other holding a grocery list in front of her.

“Let's see. Aloe mentioned wishing to try a new candle fragrance for the spa,” she told herself as she noted the hasty scribble at the bottom of the sheet of paper. “That mare is always trying something new out every week. Last week was the bubble bath scrub that made her mane too oily.” Recalling her complaints, a small grin crossed Vera's muzzle. She carried on, making her way towards her next destination. Her relaxed attitude matched with the day's bright sky and light breeze that blew by her.

Vera Blossom was the eldest of the three known Spa Sisters who ran Ponyville's town spa. Her sisters, Lotus and Aloe, often left her to handle the responsibilities of day to day living while they handled the business front of working to keep Ponyville's population beautiful and relaxed. Such standards had been in place for some time, and Vera was used to being the one to go. She had more free time on the weekend than they did, and made use of it to their benefit. Though, admittedly it'd be nice to actually use her weekend more for herself than doing more background work. Her plants needed more tending after a bad storm two days ago, and it'd be sad to see them perish.

'They certainly do not need to go the route my dating life has...'

Her train of thought came to a sudden stop when she found herself colliding with another body. Unprepared for it, she fell back onto her rump with a light wince, her bags falling beside her as she stayed upright. Looking up, she saw a similarly sprawled out pegasus stallion in front of her, his coat colored a light grey and his mane an unfamiliar shade of dark blue.

“I'm so sorry!” she exclaimed, her accent coming to the forefront as she lifted herself up, dusting her hands off on her jeans before going over to help him up. “I had my head in the clouds, and didn't see where I was going!”

The pegasus came to his senses after a moment, looking up to Vera with a smile. “It's no trouble, miss. I should've been paying more attention than cloud-watching.” he replied. He took her hand and she helped him to stand before releasing him. “Oh! Your groceries!” He said. Stepping aside, he moved past her and began gathering what had fallen out of her bag. Vera made sure the green tank-top she was wearing wasn't torn before following his example.

“I'm sorry I ran into you. I guess I was distracted.” The stallion said after handing her back one full bag. Vera took it and held it in one arm, the other already holding the rest.

“It is no trouble. These kinds of things happen all the time.” She said. “What were you distracted by?”

The young man rubbed the back of his head and laughed. “I guess a lot of things. I was visiting my friend Featherweight and he showed me these cool photos he got of the storm from a few days ago. He's a photo enthusiast, and he got a lot of cool shots. I must've not paid attention where I was walking.”

The mare nodded in understanding. Not many ponies in town were passionate for photography, but there's one for every avenue of life. “I see. I am afraid I was a bit lost in the clouds myself. Though my clouds were more down to earth than in the sky.”

The stallion chuckled. “No problem. Did you want a hand with carrying those home? Do you have a long way to go, miss…?”

Vera smiled in appreciation at the offer. “Vera Blossom. I can handle getting these home, don't worry. Though I will be mindful of any pegasi who might daydream like you do.” She teased.

Rumble laughed before speaking. “I deserve that, I guess. My name's Rumble, by the way. Just Rumble.”

Vera nodded. “You remind me of somepony I have met before...it is in the eyes. Does the name Thunderlane ring a bell?”

“Unfortunately, yes.” Rumble replied, making her giggle again. “He's my older brother; he works for the weather team. He helped make today be such a good day.” They shared a look up at the open sky above as Rumble continued. “Though if you ask me, he did it so he'd have an excuse to have a lazy day.”

“If only all of us were so fortunate to dictate those days.” Vera's remark drew his eyes back to her, but she bore no negativity in her expression. Hefting her bags, she gave him a nod. “I must be going. Again, I apologize for bumping into you like that. Enjoy your day, mister Rumble!” She moved past him, aiming once more to locate the candle-maker’s stall before he closed up. Behind her, Rumble could only watch her go before shrugging to himself and turning the other way. He paused when his foot bumped into something, and he looked down to notice it was one of the vegetables that had fallen from Vera's bag. He looked back to where she'd departed, but the mingling crowds of the afternoon had already hidden her. Hefting the now bruised carrot, the pegasus nodded to himself and departed with a new destination in mind for the day.

***********

It was a quiet home that Vera arrived to later that afternoon, something she expected at the tail end of a Sunday. The sun was beginning to set on the horizon, a mark for many that the day was coming to an end. Hefting each grocery bag in an arm gave the mare a little difficulty in opening the front door. She always did tell her sisters that dexterity helps in more things than just giving a good massage.

Stepping through the front door, Vera closed the entrance with her foot before walking to the kitchen. The trio of siblings shared a spacious residence, having a room dedicated to each of them along with a joined living room and kitchen. It had been a fortunate grab for the three when they'd first come to Ponyville, with the ample space coming at a low rent they couldn't pass up. The three had made it their own home, with rose-colored wallpaper accented with white flower designs to mimic what they used for the spa. Vera's steps were light on the wood floor, padding into the kitchen where she began to unload the groceries.

“Vera? Are you home, sister?” The mauve-maned mare turned to see Lotus peeking her head through the doorway.

“Indeed I am.” She affirmed, smiling at her sibling before she resumed putting away the various foods she'd purchased. “How was the spa today? Not too troublesome, I hope?” Her accent was more pronounced in their native language, yet it felt entirely natural despite her practiced ease with the common tongue where they lived now.

Her youngest sister shook her head, pink bangs waving about her head as she walked to the refrigerator. “It was nothing we could not handle. Since it is later in Summer, many have already had their treatments for their summer parties and gatherings.” Opening the door, she hefted out a small juice pouch, a newfound guilty pleasure of the mare considering she went through the juice packs as if her only means of survival. Her blue fingers curled around the box as she spoke. “We did have miss Rarity as always for her weekly touch ups.”

“Ah, Rarity, hmm?” Vera chimed. “And I trust it was, how does she put it?”

Lotus puffed out her small chest and rested a delicate hand upon it. “Simply marvelous, darling!”

Vera giggled at her sister's impression, closing the cabinet door and sighing. “I wonder if she only knows that one adjective, despite being such a classy mare?” Looking past Lotus, she raised an eyebrow at the lack of their third sibling. “Where is Aloe?”

“She is taking a nap upstairs right now. She told me she has another date tonight.” Lotus said, taking a seat at the small dining table across the kitchen. 

“Different stallion?”

“It will be her third this week, I believe. You know she had me cover her Tuesday for one of them?”

Vera clicked her tongue in disapproval. “Did she promise to make it up to you?”

“Of course. That would be number four now on the list of owed favors.” The pink-maned mare leaned back in her chair and huffed. “I could certainly use a nice date right now. Aloe goes through them like a mare splitting hairs on her mane.”

Vera offered no comment, choosing to busy herself instead with the rest of the groceries. That seemed to be the usual dynamic for the three, to her at least; Aloe would always be occupied or busy with some sort of social plans, whether on a date with a suitor or being with some of her friends. Lotus would have her chances at a social life as well, though she always seemed to envy Aloe's natural ease with attracting a stallion's company.

This left Vera to her own self when her sisters were away, a circumstance she usually tolerated well enough. Her hand paused as she placed an apple on the small plate by the breadbox; it was not a pleasant thought, being reminded of her lack of dates, but who else would do the work she does? She pushed down the sliver of irritation that sprung from the reminder and kept on.

If Lotus took note of her sister's mental grief, she bore no notice. Both were interrupted as a knock came to the door, Lotus getting up to go to the front. Vera shrugged and finished unpacking, trying to take a quick mental tally of everything she'd brought home.

“Vera!”

“Yes?” She called back as her eyes wandered over the counter.

“You have a visitor!”

Now that was different. Vera made sure she'd heard right before following after her sister's path. At the front door, she came to a stop as she observed the light grey pegasus standing in the doorway. Taking in  his lean build and bluish-dark mane, Vera stepped forward.

“Mister Rumble? What are you doing here?” she asked as Lotus stepped aside and walked off, leaving the two be for the moment.

The pegasus smiled and held up a small bag for her to take. Reaching inside it, she found a small stack of carrots within. “I found these on the ground when you left back at the market. You must've forgot them.” He answered.

“Oh my. I had no idea!” Vera said with relief. “Aloe always prefers to have carrots mixed in with her salads; she's something of a health nut.” She added.

“Hey, I'm not gonna dispute being healthy. You should see my brother's routine for things like that.” He chuckled. “The house still smells of radishes after his kick of that.”

Vera giggled lightly at the thought, shaking her head. “Ponies will do anything to stay healthy, no?”

Rumble only offered a smile before quiet fell upon the two. In those few elongated seconds, one could hear the distant chatter of two ponies down the street, birds chirping as they flew over the house, or even the small roll of wood cart wheels on the dirt road. The pegasus shuffled his feet, looking aside from her to the doorway's frame. To Vera, it looked like Rumble had something to say, but he seemed unsure of what to say now that he was here. 'His brother probably wanted him to try and get our numbers. Or at least Aloe's.' She told herself before clearing her throat to be rid of the awkward air.

“Well, thank you for bringing this by, Rumble. I sincerely appreciate it.” She said before turning to walk away, letting the door close behind her.

“W-wait!” Rumble's exclamation made Vera look over her shoulder and back to the stallion standing there. “I wanted to ask you something.” He said, keeping the door open but staying behind the border.

The mare turned back to face him, crossing her arms over her chest. “Yes?” She kept her facial features schooled to hide her growing apprehension.

“Um...ok.” Rumble took a breath and sighed before looking up to her azures staring at him. “I don't have a job right now, miss Vera.”
The question threw Vera off the track she'd been expecting to go down with him; instead of phone numbers, he only wanted to inquire about a job?

“A struggle for sure, mister Rumble. But if you're looking to employ yourself at our spa, I am not certain we have free space right now.” She replied.

“No, no.” He waved a hand dismissively before continuing. “I know I'm no good for that. My hands are too rough for it. And I'm a guy, so that'd be a little weird for me.” He explained. Her raised eyebrow urged him to continue. “B-but I can be a spare hand, is what I'm getting at. Like helping you run errands for your spa, for instance. Or helping with some of the harder stuff.”

His offer piqued the older mare's interest. “So you wish to be a handyman then?” She concluded. At his nod, she brought a delicate hand to her chin in thought. It would help out to have somepony assist with maintenance and her own errands. “This is rather out of the blue, mister Rumble. I have only met you today, and yet here you are seeking work from me.”

Rumble nodded before speaking. “I know. I'm between jobs right now, miss Vera. Not that I've been fired or let go. Just...more that I have a lot of free time on my hands and I didn't think it would hurt to ask. I work odd jobs around town, and thought to see if your spa had an opening.” he explained before running a hand through his mane and sighing. “...I probably did this wrong. I should've tried asking while you were at the spa. Be more professional, huh?” He added before shrugging. “I'll just go.”

He turned to leave, but didn't hear the door swing shut behind him. “A moment, mister Rumble.” He turned back to her, pausing at her closer proximity. Up close, his first assumption had been spot on about her appearance. Her cream-colored coat did well to go with her mane and bright eyes, helping to show how she had zero blemishes on her face. 

“It is always good to have part-time help in our line of work. Doing so much to give ponies relief and to feel beautiful is more taxing than one may expect.” She remarked before nodding at him. “Suppose I were to hire you as help. Are you looking for specific hours? Or perhaps an amount of pay?”

Rumble shook his head. “Well, miss Vera, that'd be up to you really. I was just always taught that offering a helping hand is better than standing on the sidelines. Brother hammered that in good to me, he did.” He explained, smiling sheepishly as she grinned at him. “I don't need that much in the way of pay, and I can even give you my number for you to contact me if you need a hand with something. I don't know a lot about the spa business, but I know plenty about helping somepony out.”

Vera's mind weighed out the consideration. On one hand, it was an unexpected offer; what's stopping her really from telling him no, so she could mind her own money and keep things as they were? But all the same, having somepony to help her out would do her well in the long run. And it's not like he was a shady character; the youth's eyes were attentive and focused on her, and he bore no manners that suggested otherwise. If anything, his attentiveness was endearing. She could tell that he truly wanted to help.

“...alright then.” Her reply made him look up in surprise from the ground. “On two conditions only, however.”

“Of course. What are they?”

“One, you perform to the best of your ability when it's asked of you. No giving me excuses of being tired or needing a break, unless you're genuinely ill, for instance.” Vera said. “We may seem calm and laid back, mister Rumble, but rest assured it is not all easygoing to keep a spa in business. I may call upon you more than once in a day, even.”

“That's fine by me. I can handle a good workload.” He agreed. “And the second?”

“Call me Vera. I'm not that old to be called a Miss yet.” she teased, making him laugh.

“Alright then. But only if you call me Rumble. I'm not old enough to be a mister yet either.”

Vera nodded, smiling as she held out her hand. He took it and shook gently before releasing it. “Oh, right. Number.” He reminded himself, patting his pockets for something to write with, only to blink as she held out a small notepad and a pencil. He looked up her slender arm to the amused expression on the mare's face. It was a smile he found that suited her, since it was a smile that went to her eyes.

“Always be prepared.” She remarked before letting him have it. Once he'd hastily scribbled down his number, she took it and pocketed the note before he stepped back. “I will have some work tomorrow for you. Be ready for my call around 1 o' clock.”

“Sure thing. And thank you, Vera! You won't regret it!” He said before heading off, leaving the mare to watch him go before she shut the door quietly and turned to walk back to the kitchen. Or she would have, if not for Lotus standing with a mischievous look on her muzzle.

“What?”

“I didn't realize you liked them young, sister. Who was he?” She teased. “Some hidden boy-toy you kept out of sight from us?”

Vera snorted and shook her head. “New hired help to give us a hand around the spa. I can't do all the work, you know.” She remarked, smirking to herself as Lotus pouted at her deflection before following her back to the kitchen. As Vera set about fixing dinner, she found herself dwelling on the thought of Rumble's smile, unaware of the small grin that came to her face in thinking of it. He certainly did have a niceness to him that some lacked. Maybe he'd be a stroke of good luck for her? She went back to chopping the fresh carrots he'd brought her, putting the thoughts aside to refocus on dinner.
> Chapter Two
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A soothing heat emanated from mug of coffee in Vera's hands, warming her fingertips and her palms. The fresh beverage, however, seemed to offer little comfort to the mare's sour mood. A thoughtful frown etched on her face, Vera had sought refuge at the Flowing Waterfall, an outdoor themed cafe that specialized in it's nature themed venue for summer and fall. Her table was designed with an enlarged lily flower in bloom, petals forming the table while her own simple wooden seat was etched with flowery designs to match its surface.

The troubled mare took another quiet sip from her glass. It's warmth did not travel further than her throat and belly. Frustration was not something she felt often, yet it pursued her relentlessly today. It had pushed her to the point that she'd left work in a huff, unable to focus on her tasks or the paperwork she'd been going over. It was not the paperwork itself that troubled her; rather, it was a bitter sting of rejection by a customer whose preferences had aimed elsewhere in his request for services.

She could still hear the words on his lips as it'd ran through her ears and sent a mental slap to her cheeks.

'I didn't mean to ask you to do it. I was wanting one of the actual massage girls to do it. They can handle me better. Aloe I think her name was?'

Granted, one could just presume it was a matter of preference; perhaps the black-coated stallion had been a consistent customer who preferred Aloe's services for familiarity? Yet it was hard for her to view it as such when he'd labeled her as being incapable. She was the eldest of the three and more experienced to boot! Vera allowed herself another sigh and closed her eyes, trying to will the negativity away from her mind. The unoccupied fingers of her free hand busied themselves with rubbing her temple in a small circle, trying to alleviate her headache.

“Vera?”

The voice calling to her snapped her out of her thoughts, and she looked up to the source with slight surprise. Right beside her was Rumble; she must have been deeper in her thoughts than she realized. He wore light clothes, a pair of tan khakis and a white-t-shirt that complimented his grey coat color. Atop his head was a small white bucket hat, one that suited him in this weather. It was a sporting look she could see him wearing often.

“Rumble. How long have you been standing there?” She asked.

“Only a little while. I saw you over here, thought to pop in.” He said.

“I see. Forgive me for not answering right away; I got lost in the clouds once more.” Vera said. He caught on and smiled at her. “How are you today?”

“I'm doing good. Taking a proper day off for once.” He answered, stretching his nimble arms above his head before bringing them down, hands cradling the back of his head. “You look like you're in need of one too. You doing ok?”

Vera leaned back in her seat. The light breeze that passed them – brought on by an overhead pegasus clearly late for her job – ruffled her mane about her neck lightly. Her own attire was a simple pair of jeans and a sleeveless pink top, appropriate for the warm day. She'd chosen them to wear to work to help keep herself cool while inside the spa's usually warm atmosphere.

“I'm ok.” She answered after a moment's pause. “Trying to get in my own breath of air, you know?”

“I bet you need one. All that extra work you've had me do must've been killer to do by yourself.” His statement rang true with the weeks he'd been in her employ; the grey pegasus had been quite useful in aiding her with errands, moving supplies around the spa, and in general being a good helping hand. Vera had appreciated his efforts and paid him accordingly, genuinely impressed with his work ethic.

“How have you been liking the labors? It's not quite the easy task some make it out to be, is it?”

“It sure isn't. I didn't realize how much work goes into keeping everything going in there. I'm surprised there aren't more folks around like me to help pitch in.” He said. “Just unloading all the shipments of lotions and other things and putting them in the right place is tricky enough; let alone actually doing massages as well.”

Vera nodded. “You're doing well so far. Your help is certainly appreciated.”

“Glad to hear it, boss.” He smiled at her. Vera returned it, although it didn't quite reach her eyes. When Rumble sat down across from her, she looked up from the etched design on the table to him. 

“So what's going on for you? You look like someone spat in your coffee this morning.” He asked.

“Oh. I just...” she started before pausing and giving up on trying to cover it. “...it's been a stressful time for me. Doing a lot of work at the spa, coming home tired each day. I haven't had much free time to myself except for this moment right now, actually.” She explained. Her fingers held onto her coffee mug as she spoke, the warmth of the cup seeming to ease her tension slightly. “I'm just burned out a little.”

Rumble nodded across from her. “I can't imagine doing all you do and still being able to keep my chin up through that. You want to talk about it?”

Vera smiled at his offer but shook her head. “You don't want to spend your day off listening to this mare whine about her woes, do you? I would think you'd have plans yourself.”

“Some plans can be moved around.” He replied, nodding at her. “Right now, I've got a friend who looks like she'd appreciate having somepony to talk to.” When Vera looked up, his expression was a smile, albeit a shy one. “I mean, that is...if you think of me as a friend. Or just a handyman. Whatever works.”

Vera allowed herself a small laugh. “You're a friend, Rumble.” His offer sat on her shoulders for a moment before she spoke again. “...are you sure you don't mind?”

“Not at all. We can walk and talk, if that's better for you.” He offered, gesturing with his thumb behind him at the wide path leading out into town. “Get away from things so you can just take it easy.”

With a nod, the mare stood along with him, leaving some bits for her coffee as she stepped away with Rumble beside her. Their height difference was always something she found slightly humorous; His head came up to just above her shoulders, allowing her to always peer down to him when they talked. When she'd teased him about it, he had jokingly remarked he still had room to grow, despite being nearly a full fledged adult.

“You know, if you ever do slip up, talking down to you will be easy.” She quipped.

Rumble chuckled before looking up to her again. “So, wait, that means I haven't made a mistake yet. Right?”

“Not yet, no.” Vera answered. “You surprise me sometimes, Rumble. When I hired you, I was expecting a pegasus who would be obsessed with fitness and exercise like his brethren were. If I charged extra for every case of 'sprained wing from exercise', I would be a much richer mare. But instead, you show an interest in health rather than showing off.” She listed out. “You even pay attention to my lessons on herbs. Very few ponies care for the practice these days.”

“I think it's really neat how you can treat ponies just with a few special plants. Like that one you told me about you wish you had,  Betu...Betu...something.” He frowned at the failed recollection. “That one.”

“Betulina Barosma.” She finished for him. “And that was just an example of rare herbs that are outside of Ponyville that I can't use, since they're non-existent in this area. Very potent and very useful, but very hard to find. Most are more likely to sell the herb for its worth than use it for medicine.”

“Right. You surprise me too, with how much you run. I don't know how I didn't see you before or run by you. You keep in really good shape. If you don't mind me saying, I mean.” He added as an afterthought.

Vera only smiled at his bashfulness. “You will find that life is full of many surprises. Sometimes, the surprise is finding a kindred spirit.” She replied.

“You got a point. The surprise for me right now is finding out something's bothering you.” Rumble said.

Coming back to thoughts of the spa and her troubles made Vera sigh, running a hand through her mane before letting it sway at her side as she walked. “I think the easiest way to say it is that these past few days have been rather taxing, Rumble.”

Rumble had waited patiently to let her speak, and watched her eyes as they stayed focused forward. He kept his attention on her while letting her guide their steps, the pace slow as they tread on the dirt road.

“The customers haven't been causing you problems, have they?”

Vera shook her head. “No, no. I haven't been harassed or anything like that.” She answered. “If anything, Lotus and Aloe get more of that than I tend to. They're more out in the open so they're more recognizable.”

Rumble nodded, sticking his hands in his pockets. “I get that. Some ponies don't know me and Thunderlane are brothers, even after doing all sorts of things together.” He said. “My school friends all know me, but the older ponies recognize Thunderlane more easily than me. He's always involved in things though; being a head member of the weather team will get you that.”

Vera nodded. “Your brother is kept busy then?”

“Sometimes. A lot of the time, he's off showing off for the mares. If not that, then the gym to show off. If not that, then trying to work extra shifts to – wait for it – show off.” He summarized, making her laugh lightly as she listened. “Man...sometimes I wonder if I'll ever get out of his shadow.”

His phrasing made her turn and see Rumble's wistful expression. It was one that she felt didn't belong on him; he was somepony she preferred to have a happier feeling about them. But his words echoed how she felt: in the shadow of her siblings, and the negativity in just having those feelings.

“Do you feel like he makes it hard on you?” she asked.

“Not intentionally, no. I mean, don't get me wrong; he loves being the older brother and all. Always telling me 'when you get to being as big as me' and such.” Rumble replied. “And I know he cares about me. But at the same time, it's hard to make your own mark when your brother's achievements come first in the household.” He then snorted. “And don't even get me started on the dating.”

Vera held back a remark on the matter, hearing much of an echo of her own inner turmoil expressed by Rumble. It made her feel more comfortable if only in knowing her troubles weren't exclusively her own. “Tell me about it.” She mumbled aloud, looking up at the empty sky above.

“You could tell me about it.” His remark made her look back to him, his eyes meeting hers as he continued. “The stuff bothering you. Do your sisters act like my brother does sometimes?”

“Well, yes and no. It's...difficult to explain.” she answered. “I mean, I'm the eldest sister, for a start. So you'd think it'd be me being the one having all the success. But it's not quite that way.” She explained. “See, we all work at the spa together. But I'm the one who has to take care of the business end of things. I'm the one who sits at the desk and crunches the numbers, the one who measures out what we need or what needs to be cleared out. Lotus and Aloe have tried to do that, but Aloe can't organize for the life of her, and Lotus says she can never balance out our accounts properly. Math never was her strongest suit.” Rumble nodded, keeping quiet as she continued. “So those two put more work into being at the forefront of the business, being the ones to offer services and help our customers while I'm stuck out of sight in the back. I do try to get out to offer my own aid too, but I get mistaken for hired help or a new girl by some. Sometimes, they even refuse me on the grounds that I'm not Lotus or Aloe, which, truthfully, hurts to hear. It's like being told my skills aren't on equal ground.”

The gates had been pried open when she had started, and yet Rumble bore no opposition as they walked on, Vera's voice carrying on alone as she spoke. He was an avid listener as she detailed how she envied the attention her sisters received for their work while she was left with few remarks or signs of gratitude. She bore no animosity to her siblings for it, far from it; she understood they earned their place with their labors. It still remained a sore spot, however, that her own labors went unseen. All throughout, Rumble stayed beside her while they walked from one end of town to another, unfettered by any concern of time.

“I just...want to have some of the spotlight for me too. Like, to know I'm good enough as well, and not just a behind-the-scenes mare.” They came to a stop at the fountain square, both taking a seat on the stone edge while the fountain quietly flowed behind them. It was only then, once they'd stopped moving, that Vera comprehended just how long she'd been ranting. “...Rumble, how long have I been talking for?”

“Well, we passed the market and some of the vendor halls. That's about twenty minutes starting from the cafe I found you at.” He answered. “You weren't boring me at all. It sounded like you needed to get that all out.”

Vera shook her head. “Yes, but I've basically done all the talking. I mean, why didn't you stop me? Haven't I just been whining this whole time?”

Rumble shook his head. “You needed someone to hear you out. I'm not always sharp on things, but I like listening to others talk.” he explained.

The older mare felt utter bewilderment that he'd be perfectly complacent to listen to her venting. “But I didn't even let you try to talk!”

“Sometimes, that's all we really need, when you think about it.” Rumble said. “Don't you feel better, getting that all out of you?”

His question drew her focus on herself, and admittedly, he was right. The burden that had been sitting on her shoulders since she'd left the spa seemed lighter now, eased from herself while she sat across from the watchful pegasus. If anything, it was like clipping a damaged branch from her own tree.

“...but still...” she tried to start, only for Rumble to wave his hand.

“Hey. If I was in the same spot as you, feeling down in the dumps, wouldn't you want to hear me out too?” he asked. At her nod, he smiled. “We're all going to have moments like that. I've had them too. I was lucky, because I always had Thunder to hear me out, or my friends from school. When they weren't too busy playing hooky.” He leaned back and looked up at the path they'd walked, empty of anypony else but themselves. “But you said you didn't feel like anypony was really looking out for you. So, why not me?”

The mare across from Rumble stared in quiet surprise. He was right, and she did admittedly feel better for it. “I'd rather help out a friend to feel better than be a stick in the mud. So, you can take that with you. I'm here if you need to vent.” He said with a grin. “Now, if you're wanting an actual spotlight, you might need to ask Pinkie Pie for one. That mare's always ready for a show.”

Vera couldn't help the small laugh that escaped her. It was like a breath of fresh air for the weary spirit she'd dealt with all week. “You know, that's pretty mature, coming from somepony so young.” she remarked.

Rumble scoffed and puffed out his chest. “I'll have you know, I'll be twenty-one in two weeks!” He declared. However, the stallion hadn't paid much attention to his seating, and wound up off balance, falling back while waving his hands to try and recover; Vera jumped from her seat as an eruption of water soared through the air from Rumble’s fall. She laughed in earnest as she looked at him, sitting in the fountain soaked from mane to toe. Rumble joined in her laughing, looking at himself and then the pretty mare smiling looking down at him. She offered him a hand to help him get up once more, and he took it.

“Well. I guess maybe my next destination is home for a new change of clothes.” Rumble said, straining one end of his shirt to get the excess water out. The fabric had turned partially see through, displaying the youth's taut frame past the cloth. Vera shook her head at his display before an idea came to her mind at thinking of how fit he was.

“Say, Rumble?” He looked up at her, finding himself fixated on how warm her expression looked when she was smiling. A small flutter passed his heart as her azure eyes gazed on him; she was a lovely mare, he was reminded.

“Yeah?”

“You told me you like to go running. Why don't you join me sometime?” She offered. “I could use a friend to keep me company and to run with. And maybe talk to also.”

Rumble nodded, smiling. “Sure. It'd be fun to have somepony to keep up with.” He replied. “And to talk to as well.”

Vera grinned, beaming at him and making his heart give another small flutter. She had a brilliant smile too, he observed. He made a mental note that seeing her smile like that was a goal he should keep in mind when she had days like today. 

“You know, a pretty mare like you should smile more like that. It suits you better than anything else.” Rumble complimented.

Vera giggled at his praise. “You make it easier to smile.” She answered.

Rumble chuckled and they continued on their way, discussing where they could run together. The sun beamed down from above, it's warmth syncing with the warmth that Vera could feel in herself now while talking to Rumble.
> Chapter Three
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The stormy weather brewing above Vera's head was a mimicry of the conflicting thoughts passing through her mind as she and her sisters were walking home. No rain was falling just yet, but one could smell it coming, rich in the air as well as the stronger winds that were blowing by her and her siblings on either side. While Aloe was busy on her phone, Lotus was content to walk amidst the quiet. Their arrival at the house had yet to bring Vera out of her thoughts until Aloe spoke.

“Have you enjoyed your birthday, Vera?” 

Aloe's voice snapped the mare out of her musings to look to the pink mare across from her. They were inside their home now; the end of the day clear as rain began to fall to the waiting earth below. It took but a moment to right herself and answer her sister.

“It has been a pleasant day, Aloe.” She assured her with a practiced smile; Vera's birthday had been wholesome enough. Taking the day off, the three had gone out together to celebrate as a family, shopping at some of the stands while partaking in some of the autumn events together. It was unexpected to see them both invest so much time for her, and she did appreciate them for making it a day for her.

...but where was Rumble?

It was a question that had stuck with her throughout the day. When he had not rang their phone number or came by himself in the morning, she had reasoned that it was likely he was just too busy that morning to stop by. At the time, she'd joked to herself he was prepping her birthday gift still. But as time passed, her concern grew. Cracks began making their way through the woven confidence he had helped establish in herself. Vera only hoped it would not show on her face, as she didn't want to make her sisters suspect something was wrong.

“I have been wondering all day, you know?” Lotus said as she set her bags on the dining room table. “Where was your friend Rumble? Surely he knows of your birthday?”

“I am sure he does. He had mentioned it to me yesterday, in fact. But perhaps he has been busy with another odd job?” Aloe replied. “He is only part-time for us, after all.”

“Maybe, sister. He has been a welcome presence for us all, however. His help has made things go much smoother with the labor he does.” Vera said.

“Better still that you found yourself a running mate on those early mornings. I was half expecting you to start dragging me out of bed for that.” Aloe joked from her seat at the table. Lotus walked to the kitchen to deposit the leftover food they'd brought from the restaurant Vera had picked to dine at for lunch.

“Yes, because Celestia forbid that we interrupt your snoring slumber, sister.” Lotus interjected, making Vera shake her head. “Though I must admit I am grateful too. The recipes you have been learning from him are a nice change of pace from the standbys we are used to.”

Vera smiled and looked down to her glass. It was true; Rumble's appearance into their lives had been beneficial for them all. Not only was he a helpful hand for busy days at the spa, but he had a positive impact on their lives outside it as well. Vera now had a reliable partner to exercise with and keep her going on days she sometimes struggled to get going. On top of that, he had shared with her some of the self-taught recipes he learned to cook for himself when Thunderlane was out of the house and takeout wasn't desired. She was truly grateful for the time spent together; it was a breath of fresh air she didn't know she'd been needing.

A sudden crack of thunder made her jolt in her seat, looking out the window at the rain falling beyond the glass. It was apparent the weather teams had many storm clouds to empty today, judging from how quickly the onslaught of rain and wind had appeared.

“At least this birthday didn't occur on a chaotic day. My last birthday had us dealing with that bugbear thing that flew into town.” Aloe commented. She stretched her arms above her head, yawning before relaxing with a sigh. “I believe I'll retire to my room for tonight. I need my beauty rest for tomorrow.”

Vera raised an eyebrow. “Another date?” she questioned.

“Mmhmm. A mister Caramel offered to take me out to dinner this past Tuesday. He seems pretty cute.” Aloe stood up while Vera remained seated, keeping her thoughts on her sister's dating habits to herself. “Happy birthday, Vera!”

The pink colored mare left for her upstairs room, leaving Vera at the table with the few bags of goodies and things she'd gotten while they'd been out together. Lotus was unseen at the moment, busy in the kitchen. Sitting alone at the table seemed to only reinforce the lonely feeling that had planted itself in the back of her mind. Had Rumble come by for her birthday, she'd be probably out with him to continue celebrating, maybe out at the market or in some cozy little restaurant, the two in their own booth and laughing and…

Vera paused, realizing how firmly her hands were grasping her glass she'd gotten when they'd arrived home. Her mind chalked up her responses to fatigue; maybe it was best she turn in for the night as well? 'That has to be it. I'm just...tired.' 

“Lotus? I'm going to turn in as well. I'm feeling a little worn out from all the walking we did.” Vera called to her other sibling.

“Are you sure? I had thought to try and whip up a little dessert for the birthday girl!” Lotus called back, peeking her head out from the doorway to the kitchen. “I was going to try for a cheesecake, like old times!”

“Thank you, but I'm really alright.” Vera reassured her. “Go ahead and fix some though. Tomorrow may beg for plenty of it. For now, I think a good book will do me well tonight.” Vera went upstairs as well, aiming for the comforts of a soft bed and an illusory fantasy brought on by it's paperback container. The hallway was quiet, no noise coming from Aloe's closed doorway. Only a small beam of light peeked out from under the door, but it soon clicked off when Vera passed by.

Inside her own room, Vera felt a comforting sense of ease pass over her. This was her own private domain here, a place where nopony wrench it from her. Her wallpaper was a soothing light blue, with a few decorative art pieces she'd found in the marketplace for a good deal. To one side sat a personal bookshelf and work desk beside it, where sometimes she found herself crunching numbers when the workload at the spa was too much to finish in just one day. She was fortunate enough that of late, the desk had seen little use. But work was the furthest thing from her mind right then.

Closing her door, she locked it before retrieving one of the novels she'd been interested in reading of late. The recommendation for the author came from one of the local book club circles that circulated romance regularly, and Vera certainly had a weakness for the dramatic stories. The one she'd picked up in particular told the tale of a pegasi guard that'd fallen for a mare he'd saved from misfortune on his patrol in the Crystal Empire. Of course the plot was more intricate than that, but Vera knew that like most readers of the genre, her real interest lied in the romantic exchanges between the strong, rough guard and the feminine but passionate mare. Opening to where she'd left her bookmark, the birthday mare settled onto her bed and resumed where she'd left off.

But as the minutes clicked by and the pages turned, the satisfaction and interest of the well-written tale did not take hold. Something still nagged at the edge of her mind, and the realization only crystallized that something into a more present force, enough to make Vera pause and stop reading. She couldn't even recall just why it wasn't sticking. In fact, when she'd first read how Sharp Prism had drew Scarlet to him after saving her life, she'd been left daydreaming of being in much of the same situation.

Here and now, however, Sharp and Scarlet hardly drew in the attention she once had for them. It was as if Sharp's character had suddenly become unappealing. What had changed? 

'It's not Rumble.'

Her internal struggle voiced itself finally, and it made Vera sit up with a sudden start that the book fell aimlessly to the side. “Stop it!” She whispered to herself. “He's fine!”

'He could be lost. Or hurt. And it worries you. You want him here.'

Vera tore her eyes away from the foot of her bed to the window. Outside, the rest of the world lay beyond the rain-splattered glass window, hazy and greyed from the turbulent winds blowing through, carrying the storm clouds above on their way. A spurt of panic shot through her as her mind envisioned Rumble lost in such an awful storm. Trying to fly to reach her home for her birthday, only for a gust of wind to blow him aside, or worse…

She shook her head and tried to do away with such thinking. He is fine, she told herself. He's just...busy elsewhere. He couldn't make it here. And that's not his fault, no matter how much fun it'd be to have him here.

'Of course it'd be fun. After all, somepony you like so much would certainly make the day a lot better. Especially since he likes you so much too.'

Memories came to mind for Vera of how Rumble always smiled at her when they were together. It didn't matter what they were doing: running in the morning, chit-chatting on the off chance of running into one another on the street, or when he offered to help at the spa. It was like she was his own small slice of goodness. In a way, Vera could suspect he was harboring possibly deeper feelings than he would let on. But she was older than him, and surely he'd want more of a mare his age than one like herself? But he always complimented her, even when her sisters were around…

A sudden thumping at the front door brought her out of her mind's depths and back into reality. Somepony was there, and if she could hear the knocking from her room, they must be needing inside urgently. Exiting her room, she quickly hurried down the steps as she heard the door open.

“Yes, who is-oh my!” Lotus exclaimed from the front. Her exclamation only hastened Vera, who appeared behind her sister. She too gave a gasp at the figure hunched over in the doorway. His mane was flattened down from the heavy rain outside, his clothes soaked. But his figure and coat color gave him away instantly.

“Rumble!” Vera reached forward and drew him in, the stallion nearly stumbling from the unexpected pull as Lotus shut the door behind him. “What are you doing in this storm? It's so awful out!”

“Little bit of water isn't gonna stop me, you know. We've run in the rain before.” Rumble said, smiling up at her as he straightened. It was only when he was standing properly that Vera could see he was holding something in his hands. A small brown package, with a little red bow, was somehow mostly dry despite it's soaked carrier. He held it out towards her, making her blink.

“Happy birthday!”

Vera snapped out of her surprise and took the package, setting it aside before returning to him. Lotus had gone and fetched some towels to help him dry off, which he took. “I remember you now. You are the young man who has been helping to clean up the spa some nights. Rumble was your name?”

The pegasus nodded at the blue masseuse, taking the offered towel and roughly rubbing on his head and mane first. “That's right. I've been helping Vera here with some of the side jobs and errands to keep you all going. It's been pretty nice too.” He added. When he'd finished toweling off his head, he passed it back to Lotus before taking Vera's towel she'd been holding to try and strain his clothes of what moisture still clung to him. “I'm sorry for the mess. But I had to get over here.”

“You didn't need to risk yourself like that. I know pegasi have to watch getting wet in this kind of weather, or you might catch the flu.” Vera said. “You could have waited until tomorrow, or-”

“Nope.” Rumble cut her off, making her stare as he looked to her. “Tomorrow isn't your birthday, today is. Can't give a birthday gift when it's not the birthday, now can I?”

Vera shook her head. “Still, you told me flying in such weather is dangerous for you. Didn't your brother get hurt in such conditions once?”

“Yeah, he did. Which is why I didn't fly in from the south. I circled around to come from the west.” He answered.

The eldest Blossom sister was left unable to remark, caught between relief and being upset at his risky behavior. In the end, she forgave it for the sake of seeing him safe and sound back with her. “Come, sit down.” She urged him, leading him to the sofa in the adjacent room. Vera led him by his hand in hers until he sat down, whereupon his visage crumbled into relief as he sank back against the comfortable cushions.

Vera nodded at seeing him sit down and relax before turning to Lotus. “Do we still have some soup to heat up?” She asked.

“Of course. I will go fix it while you attend to our guest here.” She replied, giving a nod to Rumble before vanishing into the kitchen. Vera fixed her attention on the pegasus once more, seating herself beside him as he sat there with closed eyes. Staring at him, Vera could see once more a hint of the handsome visage she was sure Rumble was steadily growing into: his smooth complexion was unmarred save for the remaining drops of rainwater from the steadily pouring rain outside, and his soft lips were parted as he breathed slowly.

So fixated on his appearance, Vera nearly forgot the gift he'd brought her. With him comfortable, she went to it and sat back down with the plain-looking box in her grasp. The mare pondered on opening it later, once he was more awake and present to see it. But a light tap to his shoulder didn't stir him; she realized he was asleep now, continuing to breathe lightly in the same pose he lay in. She smiled and shook her head, remaining beside him as she unwrapped her gift. When the wrapping and bow were removed and the box opened to reveal it's contents, Vera at first stared in curiosity. But comprehension stunned her as she beheld the gift he'd brought her.

“Is he asleep then?” Lotus' voice snapped Vera back to reality, and she looked up to see Lotus standing in the doorway, arms crossed under her bosom as she watched her.

“Y-yes. He must be exhausted.” Vera replied. She turned her eyes back to his gift. “...how did he?...”

Lotus approached her and looked at the small, carefully preserved packing bag that was within the box. “What is that? It looks like a few leaves.”

“This is...Betulina Barosma. It's an herb that we don't have here in Ponyville.” Vera answered. “Or anywhere near here. It's...a very rare herb.” She added, looking up to Lotus.

“Oh? How much do you suppose it cost?”

“You can't buy it. You have to find it. That's how well-hidden away it is.” Vera said. “Even Zecora has spoken of it, when I have stopped by to look for herbs I cannot locate myself. But how did he...” she trailed off, laying the preserved greenery in the box before looking at the sleeping Rumble.

“He must have traveled far, to find it and bring it to you.” Lotus' remark drew a nod from the older sister before she got up. Leaving Rumble where he lay, she went upstairs to place the box somewhere safe to keep it out of any harm's way. Internally, her mind was still reeling at the idea of Rumble gifting her such a thing. How did he find it? Where? He could have sold it for so much money to buy her tons of gifts, and yet he brought it to her instead. He'd known of it's material worth, from their times discussing herbs before.

It made her pause and rest a hand on her heart, feeling it still beating rapidly from the shock of seeing the herb in her hands. For any herbalist, it was a treasure to find it in their possession. And he'd just...given it to her. He'd risked life and limb to get it to her for her birthday. 

'Oh Rumble…' 

She could deny it no longer. Her heart hammered as she thought back to how Rumble was always ready to help her, in and out of the spa; how he was mindful of her safety when they were running through the town; how he'd even just smile when she happened to look his way and their eyes would meet...

“He cares for you.”

Vera snapped from her internal reverie and turned to see Lotus standing there with a small smile. The cold shock crossed down her spine and neck with chilling shivers.

“W-what? Don't be ridiculous.” Vera protested lamely. 

“Vera.”

“He's just...very kind! And he got it for my birthday! Ponies do that on birthdays!” Vera added, keeping her eyes off of her sister. She was giving her the same stare their mother once did when they were caught hiding something from her.

“Vera.”

“I-It's not like he could actually like me! I'm so much older than him!” The endless flow of excuses did nothing to stop Lotus from approaching her sister, who'd now seated herself on the bed, hands clenched in her lap. “He'd want a younger mare! A more pretty mare!”

“Vera?” Lotus' questioning tone was lost to Vera's rambling.

“I'm just a nopony, who nopony wants to be with! Not like…!” She stopped herself before she continued, keeping the accusing words at bay for the sake of her own rapidly unraveling composure. Silence hung in the room, the only sound being the rain outside. It hid Lotus' soft steps as she came up beside her sibling. When she embraced Vera, the older sister leaned into her.

“You always were one to deny the obvious before you in times like this. He is different from the stallions who see only the skin-deep beauty they obsess over.” Lotus said quietly. “He has been kind, and helpful to you. If his purpose was only to find pleasure, would you not have spotted it by now?”

“...what are you saying sister?” Vera asked, leaning up to look to her sibling. “Have you been watching us?”

“It is hard to miss details right before our eyes, Vera. He is attentive to your every word. When you seek his help, he gives it without a second thought. Though the young man may not know the depth of his own feelings, he surely cares a great deal for you. That is more than what many can say when they wander into things like love.” Lotus answered. “Ask yourself, and put that foolish idea about age out of the picture: would you not relish being with him?”

Vera briefly entertained the notion, for just a moment. To put aside the barriers of friendship and weaving themselves romantically with one another. She imagined going out on a date together, him smiling at her and holding her close. The cover of one of her novels came to mind, only now it was her laid in Rumble's outstretched arms as she clung to his neck, half-lidded eyes staring into his smoldering own…

“Do you see?”

Vera ducked her head. “...but I am not you...or Aloe. So what can I offer that would be so appealing?”

“Have you considered that it is precisely because you are not myself or Aloe that he is enamored with you?”

Lotus' words made her look up again, prompting her to continue. Lotus rested her hand on Vera's, gently squeezing it. “I know that it weighs on you to see Aloe and I be treated to such things as a stallion calling on us. We all want another to notice us like that at one time or another. But those moments are brief, and fleeting. The young man lying there downstairs holds something much more promising, I believe. That is why he goes out of his way for you. Risks his life and limb for you. Not just for the pretty face he sees, but the lovely heart he wants to feel beat alongside his own.”

“You've been reading my books again, haven't you?” Vera asked finally, making Lotus giggle quietly.

“Oh, a dabble or two when I've the time. They can be very entertaining.” She answered. 

They sat there together, remaining quiet until Vera finally sat up. Wiping at her eye with a finger, she flicked away the tear that had tried to escape before speaking again. “...do you really think it's worth a try? With him?”

Lotus nodded. “Absolutely. Love is always worth a try, and even better if he has as strong a feeling for it as you do.” Lotus placed a hand on her sister's shoulder, to which Vera rested her own atop it. “You must do it for yourself, if not him, Vera. We won't stand in your way. I would not deny you your happiness.”

Vera sighed and embraced her sister in a tight hug. “Thank you Lotus. I think...I will try.” The weight gone from her shoulders, the eldest sister felt renewed. Her sisters' acceptance aided her, as well as resolved some of the tension and envy she'd been keeping inside. Now she had her own path to follow, and somepony to maybe accompany her if things went the right way. Thinking of that smiling face of Rumble's brought a new vigor to her heart, and Vera left her sister to go back downstairs to him. 

The evening found peace within the Blossom household, Lotus and Aloe asleep in their own rooms while Vera lay snuggled on the sofa alongside Rumble. It would make the morning much more interesting to see how he'd respond to waking up next to her, while the mare could take quiet pleasure in sharing his body warmth while they slept.
> Chapter Four
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sun was beaming down on the back of Vera's head, a bead of sweat inching down her back underneath the thin t-shirt she was wearing. The mare adjusted her hat on her head, tilting it back onto her mauve locks to better keep the sun's rays off of her head as she kept her attention fixed on her current project. The delicate plant she'd been nurturing since she had been gifted it two months ago was growing well, blooming and presenting a colorful array of petals that signified its health. The sight made Vera smile as she looked over the rest of the herbs in her garden.

“Did you need anymore fertilizer, Vera?”

Rumble's voice drew her attention away, the tall mare sitting back on her feet and looking over her shoulder. The pegasus had an unopened bag of soil on his shoulder, his forearms and t-shirt dotted with dirt and sweat much like she was. Seeing him like that only made her smile, her gaze lingering for a moment on how well-sculpted his curled arm looked as the muscle flexed while holding the gardening supplies.

“No, Rumble, I think this will do fine. She's coming along great now, now that she's more comfortable in the shade.” She answered before raising up, clapping her gloved hands together to do away with some of the dirt that had clung to them. “Your help has been tremendous as always.”

Rumble chuckled at the praise. “Well, when a pretty mare asks for help, it's the gentlecolt thing to do to lend a hand.” He replied.

Vera's smile widened. “Is that so? And what does your gentlecolt code say to do if your marefriend asks?”

“Definitely help or else the sofa's gonna be your only friend for the night.”

Vera laughed at this, walking over to join him before surveying the garden together. When Rumble had learned that Vera was working on her garden to plant new herbs, the stallion made sure to be available to help her out. His offer was a blessing as he could be the spare muscle to quicken the work that much faster instead of it taking her several days at a time. In a much shorter time frame, the pair had set up a shaded haven for her new batch of herbs, particularly the Betulina Barosma in the middle of the new patch.

A touch of Rumble's fingers to her hand drew her out of her thoughts, and she turned her hand to intertwine her fingers with his. Her gentle grasp made him look to her, his cheeks a light shade of red at the contact. Vera only smiled before tilting her head to the side, resting her cheek atop his head as they stood together.

Together. It was a word that she could now apply to herself for the first time in a genuine fashion. It had taken a very short time for Vera to decide to ask Rumble out on a date, and the pair were nigh inseparable now. To many, the pair were the perfect compliment of the other. Rumble would be there for Vera when she needed somepony to lean on, and the pegasus could always find a source of comfort and reassurance in the beautiful masseuse. Rarely did any day of labor end in him going to bed sore, thanks to her efforts and care for him. He would joke that she should be charging him at the rate she aided him, but she would only smile and assure him that being himself was more than enough for her.

Vera's sisters had wholly approved of their new relationship as well, further encouraging the pair as they explored their newfound bond. Rumble was often a visiting guest at their home, offering to help cook when the chance presented itself or aid around the house. His presence bolstered Vera's confidence in herself, making the long work days far less laborious.

“They're looking great now. Almost as good as you do.” Rumble's words drew her out of her thoughts and made her grin.

“Always ready with a compliment for me, aren't you? I could be dunked in tar and feathers and you would still try to praise me.”

“Oh, that's easy. I'd just tell you that you'd be a real fly chick. You'd already have the feathers going and everything.”

Vera swatted his chest lightly, laughing along with him as he embraced her. Tilting her head down, she captured him in a tender kiss that lasted for a few sweet moments before they parted. Rumble's cheeks had darkened to a maroon color that showed heavily on his lighter colored coat. Vera relished having that effect on him; he not only appreciated her as a friend, but as a mare also. He respected her, and always stood at her side. Casting her gaze down his form, her eyes trailed down his slim neck to his left shoulder.

“Tell me, Rumble. Has your shoulder improved any since I last tended to it?”

Rumble's free hand came up to squeeze the limb carefully before he sighed. “It's been ok. Still makes it a little hard to sleep at night sometimes.”

Vera nodded. “Well, you've done more than enough work today. And for your payment, you can take a lie down on the sofa and allow myself to see to you.”

The pegasus looked to her. “Are you sure? You've been working hard too, so if you wanted a break, I'd be fine to-”

Vera's finger to his lips cut him off, making him look to the digit before back up to her eyes.

“I insist. Go wash off the dirt, and I'll meet you in the living room.”

Nodding, Rumble smiled at her and left to go inside the house, heading to the bathroom to wash off his hands and arms as well as anywhere else that may have had dirt. With a final look over of the garden, Vera grinned and entered the house as well, making use of the nearby kitchen sink to wash off her own hands out of habitual practice from work. Once she was sure she was clean, she stepped into the living room.

Rumble had already peeled off his shirt by the time she found him on the sofa, his bare back revealed to her as he moved to lay down. Having that ease of access as well as assured privacy made it easier for them both to enjoy themselves like this. His wings were spread out at ease along the sofa front and the cushion to his right, while his head was propped on his forearms.

“I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Luckiest guy ever.” Rumble murmured when he heard her footsteps.

“Oh? And why is that?” Vera asked.

“Because I'm getting a massage from the world's most beautiful mare ever. You can't top that.”

His praise was nothing she'd not heard before from him, and yet, it still drew a touch of red to the mare's cheeks. What helped most was the sincerity he spoke it with, assuring her he meant every praise he gave her.

“Then the world's most beautiful mare is also most fortunate to have such a hardworking stallion at her side, no?” She asked, leaning down to kiss his cheek from his side and making the pony smile down at the sofa.

If anything, the stallion was more often than not caught in a crossroad spot between where his heart sat and where his mind rested. He was happy, happier than he could ever be with Vera beside him. He loved seeing her smile, hearing her laugh, sharing tender moments with her in peaceful times like these. It was impossible not to; just as it was impossible to ignore how appealing she was to his more instinctual thoughts. Even the accidental brush or squeeze of his hand against her curves made his heart race; but how would he even broach the subject with her?

Rumble's thoughts were interrupted by a squeezing and rubbing sensation upon his shoulder, one that made him tense before relaxing with a sigh. Vera was always the answer to any ache he ever would have. He shifted his head, letting his arms lay beside him which gave Vera an easy way to work on his shoulder. The air in the room was cool, soothing the coat of his bare chest. Some complimentary warmth came to him from the mare rubbing at his shoulder, the limb already improving in the few minutes she'd been working it.

Vera paused as she heard Rumble chuckle. Her hands slowed their pace as she leaned down to him. “What is it?” she asked.

“Nothing.” Rumble replied. “Just...marveling, really.”

“You always do compliment my skills. At this rate, you'll spoil me.” She said with a grin.

“And if I said I was marveling at you?” He added, looking over his shoulder to her.

Vera giggled softly and kissed his cheek, making him smile sheepishly. “It's true though. I really do.”

“And why, pray tell?” Rumble tapped her leg lightly with his hand, getting her to lift up off of him so he could turn to lie on his back, only to blush as she settled back in his lap. If she cared about her position, she voiced no objection, only staring down at him warmly with her Azure eyes.

“Because you're wonderful.” Rumble answered. He continued before she could inquire. “You care about me even though I don't have that much going for me. You work hard at your job so much for your family and keep it all going on your shoulders. You listen to me when I have problems and make it feel like you really do care for me.” Rumble's hands came to rest on her thighs, minding their placement as he looked back up to her. “I mean, really; how'd a guy like me get lucky enough to be here with you? The most beautiful mare to walk into my life? Or bump into it, really.”

Vera smiled as her heart beat quicker; the honesty of his words tugging at her. Before long, she only knew one way to reply to his confession. Catching Rumble off guard, the taller mare swooped down and claimed his lips with her own, the soft and supple flesh meeting his own in a tender embrace that shattered any other praises in his mind for the sake of focusing on the kiss.

Rumble closed his eyes and melted into the kiss as Vera laid herself down atop him. Her chest pressed up against his, the cloth of her shirt acting as a thin barrier between them. She reached up to his face, cradling his cheeks within her palms. Instinct had Rumble's hands move as well, his fingertips dancing up her thighs to her hips, then to her sides. He paused a moment to stroke her broad legs as she renewed the kiss when they parted. A hum of approval escaped her as they entangled themselves in one another 

When Vera did finally pull back, she hovered near his lips as she stared into his half-lidded eyes, both left panting lightly by the time she'd allowed him to get more air. “As much as I love hearing you praise me...maybe you can show it to me more?” Her whisper sent shivers up his spine as he felt his cheeks burn.

“I-I...sure I can.” He answered just as quiet. “But...you know, I-I'm a...” he paused to lick his lips, his throat suddenly dry. “...I-I'm not experienced.” He couldn't bring himself to say it; he didn't want her to think little of him. To his surprise, however, he felt her fingers brush through his mane as he peered up at her bashfully.

“You don't need to be with me, Rumble.” Vera reassured him, smiling at his shyness. She'd gathered he wasn't a stallion who got around before she came into his life, from how he kept to himself and didn't try to advance on her. She wholly appreciated his gentlecolt behavior, yet knew inside him and her own self burned a desire to go further. “We can take our time, and just...feel things out.” She finished before kissing him gently once more. Her encouragement must have eased his worries as she felt him press back against her while his hand drifted up to run through her mane, fingers brushing past the mauve locks to caress her delicately while his lips remained firmly pressed to hers.

Elated, Vera took the initiative for him as she settled atop him, her leg curling around his while her tongue, nimble and wet, prodded against his open lips. He didn't resist; he let slip instead a quiet moan as the wet invader caressed his own and began to dance and flick around it, inviting him to join her. He gave back what he could do, brushing against hers and licking at her pink tongue as best he could. It was still new to him, having only done it before briefly with her in more innocent circumstances. But as she pressed her front against him, he knew they were likely to go much further than he could have imagined.

Vera paused in her ministrations as she felt his hand come to grasp her hip, his fingers squeezing her through her capris. It was a feeling she wanted more of, for sure. But a devious grin spread on her muzzle as she pulled back from his now wet lips. The string of saliva that linked them stayed until she spoke, breaking to fall unnoticed onto his chin.

“You know...I think I'm a little over-dressed right now.” She whispered to him. Rumble's eyes widened but he kept still as Vera straightened up before reaching down to the hem of her sleeveless shirt. Grinning, she slowly tugged it off and away, the gradual reveal of her smooth stomach being the warmup act for the appearance of her now freed bosom fully on display. Rumble's eyes gravitated to them, taking in the full swells for the first time. He had to force his head up to look at her face again to keep from staying put at the pink-hued nipples begging for his attention.

“Go ahead, Rumble. Don't be shy.”

With that invitation, Rumble couldn't say no to such an offer. With her sitting up, he followed suit, His head eye level with the swollen mounds on her chest. He gave one last look up to her grinning visage, and encouraged by her nod, brought his hands up to grasp them. He almost jumped at Vera's sigh of pleasure when his palms brushed against her erect nipples, the buds pressing back as he carefully kneaded and felt her breasts for the first time. He marveled at their softness and weight, his fascination growing as he leaned forward to kiss the cleft of the valley her breasts made.

Vera shivered under his touch, moaning lightly as Rumble continued to caress her flesh. His lips went everywhere they could across her chest. She rested a hand on the back of his head when his mouth found itself on her nipple. A light flick of his tongue against it had made her whimper, the hot muscle stimulating the mare's sensitive nerves as he continued to lick it. Encouraged, Vera's moans were heard as Rumble closed his lips around the bud and suckled on it tenderly. For a virgin, he was doing very well so far. Her tail swished against his pants while grinding slowly in his lap, braced by his arm that had come around to hold her around the back.

Rumble's world was nothing but Vera, the stallion lost amidst the unique flavor of her breast in his muzzle as he continued on. The floral fragrance of her skin enticed him further, losing himself in the act of pleasing her until she finally pressed on his shoulder. Releasing her nipple, now wet from his saliva, he looked to the mare who now had cheeks as red as his own. It was only then that he realized just how aroused he was. His stallionhood was giving its best effort to try and breach through the cloth confines it was kept in, pulsing with need as much as his heart was racing.

“Looks like somepony's getting into it.” Vera murmured. “Why don't you let me take a turn?”

Silently nodding, Rumble laid back against the sofa, sitting up while Vera moved to keep herself in his lap. Flicking her mane over her shoulder, the mare kissed him again, sensuality brimming inside her as she rest her hands on his bare chest. The feeling of his firm muscles pushing back made her want to feel more, lust clouding her imagination. Vera slowly worked her way down to his neck, kissing and licking playfully while enjoying Rumble's sighs of pleasure. 

Moving further down, Vera could only grin as she looked up at his face. Rumble's eyes were closed as he breathed through his open mouth, his cheeks flushed red. Satisfied, Vera continued to kiss at his neck as one of her hands trailed down his firm belly to his midriff, fingers dancing along his waistline until they found the catch of his pants. Rumble's eyes opened as he felt his jeans come undone, and looked down to see Vera having left his lap to kneel between his spread legs. With one hand resting on his thigh, the other was occupied with undoing his pants, succeeding and tugging on them gently. Taking the hint, he lifted himself up. His jeans slid down to his knees as his boxers came into view. The tent he made renewed Vera's blush, eying it hungrily before looking up to him again.

“It seems there was a muscle I forgot to tend to. How clumsy of me, hmm?” Vera remarked as she ran a finger along the bulge lightly. Rumble couldn't help the shiver that passed through him at the contact. “Just leave it to me, my dear.”

Rumble nodded, but kept his eyes open to watch as Vera tugged on the waistband of his boxers. In one motion, she freed his arousal from it's confines and watched as it stood straight upwards, the tip swollen while his darkened shaft throbbed beneath it. Vera's eyes were wide as she took him in, gaze taking in every inch from tip to base and to the orbs dangling beneath it.

“I-It's not...” Rumble started to say, a brief tinge of worry crossing his mind.

“It's perfect.” Vera cut him off, looking up to him past the pillar of horsecock before her. “As much as those magazines would have you believe, a mare does not need a giant to be satisfied.” In Vera's mind, his member was plenty enough, a quick guess pinning him to match at about seven inches. It was perfect to her; any bigger and it would be trouble later.

“Y-you're sure?” He questioned. “I'm not...you know. Bad looking?”

Vera could only smile at his bashfulness. It was adorable in a way for him to fret for her sake; it only made her want to work that much harder to please him. Bringing her hand up to grip him gently, she spoke quietly.

“Not in the slightest. But don't just take my word for it; lay back and let me show you.”

He was sure she could feel him throb in response to the sultry tone her words carried, and Rumble eased himself back while Vera continued to hold him. Moving his boxers down to his knees, she was given full access to his stiff cock, caressing him slowly as he rested in her palm. She'd been telling the truth: Vera didn't find the idea of a giant, overly hung stallion appealing. It would hurt way too much to enjoy anything he'd have to offer. Instead, a size like Rumble's worked for her perfectly, and she knew just how to show it.

Rumble gasped in delight when Vera's wet tongue came into contact with the side of his stiff pole. The mare was licking slowly up and down his length, the flat of her tongue covering what it could as it danced around his meat. She left the head and base untouched so far, the featherlight brush of her mane against his tip as much a tease as it was arousing to feel. His hands twitched at his sides, but they kept still as he let her continue.

Vera took joy from interacting with his cock, the taste pleasant to her senses. In the past, Vera had to deal with partners who had slacked on the idea of cleaning properly, but Rumble provided a drastic improvement. Her free hand lifted up and gently squeezed the hefty orbs in her palm. Combining the motion of her hand on his length, Rumble was being assaulted from three fronts at once, leaving him as a throbbing pole of pony in Vera's grasp. 

Satisfied so far, Vera eased her grip and let his pole stand on its own, while she ducked her head down to be on level with his balls in her grasp. She ceased rubbing them, giving Rumble a moment to breathe before said breath caught in his throat. Vera had leaned forward and buried her muzzle in the cleft of his ball-sack, lips and tongue pressed against the tender flesh while she inhaled his musky, masculine scent. The action caught him off guard, but he enjoyed it immensely. Vera hummed to herself underneath his sack. Jolts of pleasure continued to shoot through his body from his crotch as Vera's lips kissed over every inch of his balls, the musk of his scent lulling her into a lustful state.

“V-vera, I...wow.” Rumble managed to get out between breaths. He was doing his best to keep himself steady from all the wonderful things she was doing to him. “You're amazing!”

His praise rang within her ears as Vera continued to orally worship his sack. Tongue in motion, she continued to lavish his balls with long flicks and licks of the muscle for his pleasure. It stirred her own fire as well, feeling a noticeable moistness emanating from her nethers. Being so close to him like this was igniting her passions quickly, making her up the ante by opening her maw wide to allow one of his balls to fall into her mouth. Carefully closing her lips around it, she sucked and slurped at the hefty orb with ease, coating it in her warm saliva as the taste of him only further enamored her.

Releasing his ball after its thorough bath in her mouth, Vera allowed it to fall out of her mouth only to claim its brother and repeat the treatment, tongue swirling and rubbing while his shaft throbbed above her head. Feeling it brush against the top of her head reminded her that she had to be careful to not overwhelm him just yet. When she felt she'd done enough, she retreated from his balls with one final kiss to both, the pair now thoroughly damp from her efforts. Looking up at his flushed face, she reckoned her timing was good from how deeply he was breathing.

“I-If you'd kept that up, I think. I think I'd have lost control.” He told her.

“Don't worry, Rumble. You don't have to hold back for my sake.” Vera assured. “This is the best part.” She added before gripping him gently and stroking him as she licked her lips. His arousal wafted up to her from the tip, making her realize the shine on his tip was from the pre-cum he was leaking. Leaning down, she dashed her tongue across the slit, getting her first taste of him. It was slightly bitter, yet the taste wasn't unpleasant to her. Motivated by his moans from above her, she continued to lick the tip until her lips closed around it. Her hand held him at the base as she worked him over, slowly bobbing her head to stimulate him further.

She got what she wished as he continued to moan her name, his voice filling the empty room as she pressed on. By the way he was throbbing in her lips and hand, she knew he wouldn't hold out much longer. He'd done well to last this long, even. Bobbing her head faster, she opened her eyes and stared up to him, staring into his eyes as his cock continued to slide back and forth into her mouth. The stiff pole was wet from her saliva, making it shine from the light of the window nearby. Watching her beautiful visage worshipping his shaft so intensely pushed Rumble to the brink; his hold on his orgasm slipped and barreled out of his control as his legs tensed and his back arched.

Vera was ready, having felt the tremors crawling up his shaft as it throbbed in her grip. Releasing the base of him, she kept her lips wrapped around the tip and sucked powerfully, cheeks hollowing as she felt the flare grow in her mouth. The first blast of his cum came with some force, splashing her cheek as she felt a second and third quickly follow. A swallow cleared some of the volume as the flow slowed down, small spurts continuing to come from the tip as she slurped and drank his thick essence down. By the time he was done releasing into her mouth, Vera was still suckling at the tip until she released him, coming off of his cock with a satisfied grin. Rumble's hands were clenched on the cushions, knuckles white as he came off the orgasmic rush she'd given him.

Rumble was left in a heap on the sofa, sweat on his brow from the strain of trying to prolong the blissful orgasm she built him up to. Once she'd collected herself, she traced a delicate finger around her lips to remove any remnants of his cream on them. Seeing him so relaxed kept Vera smiling as she smoothly moved herself back into Rumble's lap, being mindful to not sit on his half-flaccid length now resting on his thigh.

“Feeling a little loosened up now, Rumble?” She asked as her index finger trailed a circle on his chest.

The pegasus could only nod, still reeling from the intense orgasm. “You're amazing, Vera. I didn't know you...were that good.” He said as he rubbed his hands along her sides slowly. Rumble's eyes met hers for a moment in quiet thought before he spoke again.

“I was wondering though. Could I try to, maybe, return the favor?”

Hearing his question made a small pulse emanate from within Vera's core, as her cheeks darkened. “I would be very happy to let you.” she replied.

Rumble smiled sheepishly as she stood up. It allowed him to admire the supple curves of her torso, her breasts resting against her chest as she awaited him.

“Again, I find myself still a little overdressed. Maybe you can help?” she said, causing Rumble to glance down at the capris covering her legs. She smiled as she watched a smile spread over his face.

“Only if it's alright with you.” He said. “I mean, uh. I know that sounds crazy to say. After what you just did. But, you know.”

Vera shook her head with a smile. Instead of replying, she stood up and pulled him to stand up with her. Confused but obedient, Rumble stood up, kicking away his fallen clothing as he stood nude before her in the living room. Vera took the moment to appreciate how fit he was without any clothing to hide his form before recalling it was her turn to enjoy some fun. Sharing a kiss with him, she pulled back only to whisper in his ear as she moved his hands to her waistline.

“I want you to do it. Take your time, sweetheart.” Her sensual whisper bolstered his confidence, as slightly shaky fingers gripped the waistband of her capris before moving to lightly grasp the button that held it in place. With one deft movement, it came undone. Vera rewarded him with a kiss to his ear as he tugged and moved them down, leaving her to stand in the black silken panties she'd chosen that morning. Looking down between them, Rumble gulped at seeing how little was left to the imagination from them. If anything, it brought out the swell of her hips, making him stare before he could refocus.

“Can you, um...lie down? I don't want you uncomfortable.” He asked.

“Of course.” Vera kissed him tenderly before walking back to the sofa, hips swaying as she felt his eyes on her firm rear end. Toying with him, she made a show of bending over as she leaned down to lie on the sofa, rolling onto her back and smiling at his transfixed stare. A glance down told her he was already starting to get some life back into his member, the length giving a small twitch against his thigh.

She beckoned him over with a finger. She remained laid back with her head on the armrest. Truth be told, Vera was a little nervous at this point. She knew she didn't have reason to be, with how intimate they'd been already. It didn't help that it'd been some time since a lover had seen her this exposed, but she was more excited that Rumble was the one seeing her in such a state. She wanted him to look, to see her intimate of intimates. When he sat before her, hands resting on her thighs and eyes on hers to see if she was still alright, the mauve-maned mare gave a nod for him to continue.

Rumble's mind was ablaze with lustful curiosity to see the treasure that laid behind the silken confines of her panties. It was the same curiosity that led him to bring a finger forward and gently run it up and down the front of them, the damp wetness greeting him as Vera shivered from the light touches.

“Keep going, Rumble. There's so much more waiting for you.” She breathed out as she watched him.

Nodding, Rumble reached up and took a breath before slowly tugging the silk panties down her round thighs and long legs until they were free to be laid down on the ground. Her marehood greeted him, freed from its silk confines. It was the first time he'd seen one himself; Thunderlane's old magazines had nothing on what he witnessed with his own eyes. In the light from the window, he could see the glistening surface of her swollen lips, her sweet scent filling his nose as he knelt closer. Vera shivered as his breath ghosted against her nethers, making her eager for more from him.

“I-I think I know what to do. Just tell me if I do something bad, ok?” He told her.

Vera nodded, and Rumble brought a hand forward to cup her marehood. The warmth coming off of it made his cock twitch again, but he focused more on her responses as he began moving his fingers. They paused for only a second at her entrance before they prodded their way in. Vera's swift inhale when his fingers entered her told him he was doing well so far, and continued to use his digits to rub and explore the wet, slippery environment he'd entered. Every brush and rubbing motion he made with them coaxed a moan from Vera as he kept a gentle pace, mindful of not going too far in or touching something he shouldn't.

“T-that's good, Rumble. Oh, Celestia, is that good.” Vera muttered under her breath. “Keep going. Oh, keep touching me.” The rough surface of his fingers against her sensitive walls toyed with her senses, small jolts of pleasure keeping her marehood wet and coat his fingers and palm in her juices.

Rumble went over in his mind what little tidbits he'd been told before to try if he ever was with a mare. He slowed his fingers motions before shifting position, moving his head to be on level with her pussy. Vera moaned in confusion as his fingers removed themselves from her depths, only to gasp as he used them to spread her lips wide for his tongue to invade her. The unexpected touch of his hot tongue to her inner depths caught her off guard, making her legs shake as she gasped for air.

“Oh, yes! Oh, please!” She whimpered as she fixed her eyes on the mop of blue mane at her crotch. “You're a natural at this. Keep going!”

The pegasus found himself growing more bold as he grew used to the taste and feeling of her marehood on his tongue and mouth. Pressing closer, the very light touch of her fur against his lip was nary a distraction from the sweet taste he was experiencing. It made him want more of it, his tongue circling around and around to try and drink from her what he could. It helped him that every twitch of his tongue within her made the mare cry out for more, her thighs threatening to close around his head and pin him there where he sat.

'Not a bad way to go.' he admitted to himself before his tongue brushed against an odd patch within her pussy, right on the ceiling. When his tongue pressed against it, Vera gasped dramatically and her legs suddenly tightened around him, squeezing his head between her surprisingly strong thighs as he paused his motions.

“Again! Do that again!” She begged, chest heaving. Oh Celestia above, if he'd found her g-spot that quickly-

The train of thought she was on shattered suddenly as he assaulted the spot fervently per her wishes, lashing and pressing and licking at it with all he had. Vera's mind went wild, and her hand went down to grasp at his head, pushing him into her crotch with a burning need he was happy to satisfy. What seemed like hours of pleasure was focused into those few moments of ecstasy as he tapped that sensitive spot again and again, making her marehood gush with her juices. Yet she hadn't hit the pinnacle yet, though she knew he was learning fast.

“Rumble! Touch my clit! Play with it please!” She exclaimed. If there was any concern over anypony hearing her, it was lost amidst the ecstasy she felt in that moment. Vera needed to hit that peak, being so close. It'd been so long, beyond all the lonely nights of fantasy from romance novels and plastic aides, since a lover had brought her to the brink.

Rumble slowly withdrew his tongue and pulled back to look at her nethers. The swollen lips were engorged and full, and his gaze was drawn to a small nub he only now could see that throbbed. Ingenuity struck him, and the pegasus placed his lips right over the nub as he aligned three of his fingers with her quivering marehood. As one, he clamped his lips down on the nub and sucked tenderly at it while plunging three of his fingers to the knuckle into her waiting depths. He closed his eyes and pumped them in and out as he flicked his tongue against the pulsing nub.

Vera's world became nothing but stars and colors as she exploded into her first true orgasm since her last lover. Rumble was pinned in place again by her hand and thighs on him, a placement he had no qualms with as he drank up the juices her marehood splashed him with. She came with such force that he could feel it dripping down his chin, but he drank of her nectar regardless, his lustful fervor leaving Vera to be adrift in her pleasure. He withdrew his fingers only when he felt her legs go slack, allowing him to move again as he sat up to look to her.

Vera's flushed face was the purest expression of ecstasy, her eyes staring down at him as her hand twitched on her belly, still feeling the after-effects of his tongue-play on her marehood. Chest heaving as she gasped for air, she reached for him, and he moved up and met her for an unexpectedly passionate kiss. Neither gave notice to the mixed taste of themselves on the other's tongue, hands caressing one another's sweaty bodies as the now warm air of the room surrounded them.

“That was...beyond wonderful. I haven't cum like that in...in months.” Vera gasped out when they parted. Her praise made him smile at the mare.

“So not bad for a first go around?”

Vera smiled with affection and desire both burning in her gaze. “Certainly good. Very good.” It was all she could muster to describe the ecstasy running through her at the moment. “Are you up to continue, my Rumble?”

Rumble looked at her in surprise while his member throbbed against her side, brushing against the fur as it twitched in anticipation. “I-I can. If you are, I mean.” He murmured. “Do you want, um...h-how should we...” Vera's giggle made him look up to her again, offering only a sheepish smile to her sultry look. “Sorry, just...don't want to mess this up.” he apologized.

“Don't be sorry. Every experience is different, you know.” Vera reassured him before kissing him sweetly, her hand coming down to caress his length with a gentle touch. It made him moan into her muzzle until she pulled back. “You can lie back, if you want. Let me take over for you.”

Nodding, the pegasus shifted with her, letting himself lie back against the armrest so his head was propped on the pillow. Vera rolled over onto his lap, wedging between her and his torsos. The brush of her warm and soft fur against him made him sigh in pleasure, cut off once more as she kissed him deeply. Rumble did his best to return it, tongue slippery and wet against her own until she withdrew and sat up. Watching with burning cheeks, Rumble looked on as Vera took his length and pointed it up towards her flushed opening, the pink walls still glistening from her previous climax.

He looked up further, past her slim waist and full bosom to her face, where her eyes met his. They didn't need to speak in that moment; Rumble needed only to nod to give his permission, as much as ask for her own. Vera was glad to give it, looking down before lowering herself to press the tip against her entrance. Just the contact of heat and wetness to his tip made Rumble shiver in want, but he held still for Vera's sake as she ground her pussy against him. There were no words given between the two, only the slow exhales of bated breath as they crossed the final threshold.

Vera gave in to her desire, the sheer raw want for him to fill her pushing her to go further. It took but a moment for his tip to penetrate her, eased by her fluids while her tight walls welcomed his cock to her depths. A gasp was caught in the mare's throat as she felt his heat spread through her core, continuing to grow as she slowly sank down each inch of him. It was released when she took him to the base, rocking both with the sensations bombarding them. Rumble's mind was lost amidst feeling the tight walls tugging and squeezing at his length, wet and pulsing with need as much as he was.

“R-rumble...” Vera managed to moan out before shivering as she felt him throb in her depths. Oh by the stars, she could feel every bit of him against her, leaving her so full of his cock. She couldn't help but clench around him, the burning instinct to ride him brimming in her mind.

The pegasus was having trouble speaking coherently through the pleasure assaulting his brain right then. It was only when Vera's hand came to rest on his chest that he could snap out of the spell, only to meet her lips as she ground her hips against his, stirring her marehood with his thick pole. Rumble had fantasized before that his first time might be some sort of rushed affair, something quick to get past the moment. Vera was blowing away every conception of that idea, however, particularly with how every motion of her hips brought him a new wave of pleasure while she sucked on his tongue. He let her take the reins to guide them both, trusting in her to give them both the best experience possible.

When the need for air became too great, Vera withdrew from him, only to rest her hands on either side of his head. Instinct told Rumble to act, his hands shooting up to rest on her rear and squeezing it gently as she looked to him. “I'm going to start moving now, Rumble.” She whispered. He only nodded, answering with a kiss to her collarbone as she began lifting her hips off of him. She almost faltered when the sensation of his length dragging against her walls hit her again, but pressed on until she could feel just the tip within her.

With a slow sigh, Vera lowered herself again, keeping herself steady as she took him back in. It was a wondrous feeling, one she'd been too long without. It was made better in how Rumble seemed to fit her perfectly, his rod not so long she couldn't take him yet thick enough to brush against every part of her sensitive marehood. Her motions kept their slow pace as she rode him, sweat continuing to drip down her back and neck from the heat of their passion as well as their efforts. It was a sensation that only made things more erotic for the mare as Rumble's hands squeezed her rear and began to knead it in time with her motions.

Vera's actions were rendering Rumble's mind numb as she claimed him, every downward sweep of her rear meeting his hips in a light smack. It was taking a great deal of effort to not lose himself in the moment, wanting to relish how her tight walls were pulling on his rigid cock with each sweeping motion of her hips. He distracted himself by focusing on her breasts that were bouncing lightly before his eyes, lips firmly pressed to her nipple as he sucked on the sensitive bud. One of his hands left her rear to occupy the other breast, squeezing it and bringing a moan out of the mare as they rocked back and forth.

Those moans made him want to hear more from her, but Rumble wasn't sure how much longer he could take this. Sweat was drenching his back and chest, and he could feel a knot tightening in his belly. His lust wanted to keep going and let himself finish. He knew that he could make it even better for her, however, which pushed him to bring his hand down on her rear and press down to get her to stop.

Vera's eyes blinked in confusion before looking down to her lover. “Rumble?” She breathed out, panting for air. “You haven't?”

“Not yet. Not yet.” He gasped as he looked up at her. “I wanted to try something. It'll help us both out.”

Grinning at his forwardness, Vera nodded. Moving carefully, Rumble lurched up until he was sitting upright, keeping Vera in his lap with a hand pressed to her lower back. It put his head once again amidst her cleavage, a position he found very fitting as he laid a kiss upon both breasts. Once he was sure she was steady atop him, Rumble used his hand on her rear to help lift her slightly while rearing his hips back. When he felt enough of him was withdrawn, he grunted and thrust up as she came back down, a wet slap sounding as their crotches met. What was even more prominent was Vera's gasp as she braced herself with her hands on his shoulders.

“Oh, Rumble. Again! Again!” She cried out, and he was all too happy to oblige.

The stallion's cock pounded her waiting depths with a renewed fervor, Vera's juices flowing around the seal of his thickness being shoved into her to drip down to his bouncing balls underneath her. They were a sweaty, gasping, heaving mess of stallion and mare, yet both relished every second of it. With Rumble in control, Vera could ride out the ecstasy he was giving her through his plowing member, showing her approval as her voice continued to moan his name in his ear. Rumble would have returned the gesture, if not for his mouth busy assaulting her breasts once more. The musky smell of their sex filled his senses and drove him onwards, humping up into her cunny with all the more fervor.

Vera had been expecting to maybe draw close to finishing with Rumble when she'd started riding him, but found he was quickly closing the gap with the way his cock was rubbing against her pussy's depths. It made her only want more, the buildup of her climax within her making itself more and more prominent in her mind. She lifted his head from her breasts and plunged her tongue into his maw, lustfully claiming his tongue as it met her while he thrust all the more wildly. She reared her head back and squealed with each wet slap of his crotch against her, making her take him to the hilt with each pass. The ball surged again within her, and Vera's hand shot down to rub feverishly at her throbbing clit.

“Oh, Rumble! Rumble, are you – goddess! - are you close?” she gasped out.

“Mmhmm!” He hummed out with his face buried amidst her cleavage again. He pulled back long enough to be heard clearly. “In or out?”

“Inside! Inside me, Rumble!” She panted out, pressing her rear down into his thrusts to try and get as much of him in her as she could. “Inside! I want you to cum inside me!”

Abandoning his rhythm, Rumble thrust with wild abandon into the writhing mare atop him. It became too much for them both to handle, Rumble's vision blurring as he tried to hold out. It couldn't last, however; with a final thrust, he muffled his yell as his cock flared within her, streams of his seed pouring into her eager depths. The sudden spray of heat within her nethers tipped Vera over the edge as well, screaming his name as her pussy clenched to milk him through her climax. Thoughts became a jumbled mess as she felt her body give out atop him, the orgasm locking her muscles in place as she fell atop him a sweaty mess of a mare.

They laid there together, the sensation of his cum and her juices flowing out of her and onto their thighs a pleasant final note of their lovemaking. Rumble continued to lie underneath her, gasping for air while her breasts surrounded his face. The experience was still washing over his mind as she lifted herself up to let him breathe freely, letting him look up at her flushed visage and loving gaze.

Her mouth moved, and Rumble realized he could barely hear her over the thudding of his heart in his ears. “S-say that again?”

“I love you.” She said, beaming down at him as he grinned back up at her.

“I love you too, Vera.”

The pair remained entangled in one another for a short time, basking in one another's warmth as the light from the window shone onwards. Neither pony needed to say much else to the other as they lay in silence; they'd found the perfect love they'd been searching for, in full bloom as they shared a soft kiss.