Even though she now likes Pears, she never thought she herself would fall for one.
Even though she now likes Pears ever since she learned her mother was one, she never thought she herself would fall for one. She thought it was impossible.
It was a bright sunny day outside when Applejack stumbled across him in the market. The birds were singing as they flew around and pulled the two close together. The stallion's name was Bartlett and he was a relative of Applejack's on her mother's side. He was her third cousin twice removed or something of that nature. All she knew, though, was that she loved him.
"Howdy," said Applejack with a blush to the stallion in front of her.
"Howdy yourself," replied Bartlett back with a small grin appearing on his face. "So, you're Buttercup's little girl." He says casually. "Ya know, if you come with me, I can tell you a little bit more of how she and your father actually died."
"I'd love that," replies Applejack as she follows him down into the depths of a newly formed pear orchard. Once in the orchard, the two sit down and Bartlett begins to tell her everything.
"You see," says Bartlett. "We weren't much older than you when we first learned about Pear Butter's passing. Your mother was an amazing pony, she loved everyone and made friends with everyone she met. When we learned that her life had been taken in a violent earthquake while trying to get you and your siblings to safety, we didn't know what to think at first. Then we realized, if she and Bright Mack hadn't sacrificed themselves, you and your siblings wouldn't be here today. A few days later, we all went to their burial grounds, where the big Apple Pear tree is now and paid our respects. Pear Butter was family after all. Grandpear didn't show up to the funeral. He still felt betrayed. The rest of us were there, though. It was a lovely funeral."
"Wow!" replies Applejack. "How come Granny never told us this part of the story?" She scratches her forehead in confusion.
"Probably of all the bad memories she had from the experience, after all, the earthquake took her son's life too, not just Pear Butter's," replies Bartlett. The two then leave the orchard and head towards town where they continue to talk for hours on end and even share a kiss or two. By the end of the day, the two are a couple and Apple Bloom especially can't believe it.
"Wow! Who would've thought you'd fall for a Pear?!" exclaims Apple Bloom as she runs up beside her sister.
"Yeah, who would'a thunk," replies Applejack with a smile. "We were just having a chat between cousins. After all, he is our third cousin twice removed."
"Yeah, sure, I think it was more than that. I saw you kiss him. I saw you kiss him more than once," replies Apple Bloom.
"Fine, fine, okay. Bartlett and I have started dating. There's nothing wrong with that. He's down the line quite a bit," replies Applejack. "Don't get your bow in a bunch."
A few minutes later, the two arrive at home where they are greeted by Big Mack and Sugar Belle. "Hey Sugar Belle!" says Apple Bloom excitedly as she gives Sugar Belle a hug. "It's good to see you again!"
"It's good to see you too, Apple Bloom, "replies Sugar Belle as she hugs the little filly.
"Hey Sugar Belle, long time no see," replies Applejack as she walks over and gives Sugar Belle a hug as well.
"It's been too long, to that I can agree, my brother Party Favor and I sure miss seeing y'all around," replies Sugar Belle.
The four then continue to talk for hours over dinner along with Granny Smith and Grandpear. It's such a happy dinner for all of them. Applejack, however, doesn't really feel in the mood to tell them that she's dating her third cousin Bartlett, especially not in front of Grandpear. He'd flip out for sure.
A few hours later, after Grandpear and Granny have gone up to bed for the night. Applejack finally lets out the truth. "Guys," she says, "I'm dating a pear, our third cousin, Bartlett. He's such a great guy. I don't see why we ever feuded now that I'm with him."
"I'm proud of you, sis," says Big Mack. "Don't you just think it's a little weird that you're dating our third cousin???"
"Meh, it doesn't bother me," replies Applejack with a shrug.
"Well, when do you plan on telling Granny and Grandpear?" asks Big Mack inquisitively.
"That's the thing, I don't ever plan on telling them, what would they think if they knew I was dating our third cousin? They'd flip out immediately," replies Applejack.
"Fair point," replies Big Mack. He then goes back to being his quiet self. He's already talked too much for his own liking today already. He then kisses Sugar Belle goodnight before going up and showing her to the guest bedroom before heading off to bed himself for the night. The girls, however, stay downstairs and watch the shooting stars fly by overhead together.
"You know those stars are maw and paw's spirits," says Applejack to Apple Bloom.
"Yeah, I know," replies Apple Bloom with a smile. Once the stars are passed, the two return inside and Applejack tucks Apple Bloom into bed for the night. She then heads off to bed herself and soon falls asleep and dreams all about her and her sweet boyfriend, who just happens to be her third cousin twice removed, Bartlett.
Meanwhile, in Vanhoover, Bartlett's relatives, the Anjou twins, his own twin sister, Red Bartlett, Bosc, Comice, Concorde, Forelle, Seckel "Se se", and Starkrimson all tend to filling up the jam cellar before heading off to bed for the night themselves. Little do they know of Bartlett's recent romantic relationship with Applejack and frankly, they wouldn't care even if they did know. All they know is that they want to get the jam into the cellar before midnight because that's when the Timberwolves come out.
A few minutes later, they finish up and return inside and head off to bed for the night themselves. Meanwhile, Aunt Sweet Pear and Aunt Camel Pear are looking over the day's mail and see a letter from Bartlett. The two then rip it open and read it. "Dear family," they read, "I am loving my new life in Ponyville and don't ever plan on returning back home to Vanhoover. I've fallen in love with my cousin Applejack, well third cousin anyways. Here's the funny thing, she's actually fallen in love with me too. Who would've thunk it? Your best brother, Bartlett." The two look at each other. "Oh shoot, that was for Red. We weren't supposed to read that." The two then stick it back in the envelope, walk it upstairs, and place it beside Red's bedside, hoping she'll find it when she wakes up. The two then sneak off to bed themselves before they can get into any more trouble before the sun comes up.
The next morning, Red Bartlett wakes up to the letter from her twin brother on her bedstand and she reads it. She then goes to her desk, grabs a piece of paper, and gets her ink and feather and writes a response letter to her brother. Dear Bartlett, I'm so glad you are having a good time in Ponyville and I'm glad you've been able to start anew there. I'm glad that you're finally in a relationship. It's just a little weird that it's with one of our third cousins. How is Grandpear doing? I haven't heard from him in awhile. I don't think I've heard from him since the whole Pear Butter Bright Mack incident. Anyways, write me back when you get the chance. Your better half, your twin sister, Red "Re Re" She then puts it in an envelope, stamps it, and takes it out and sticks it in the mailbox.
A few hours later, the letter reaches Bartlett. He then opens it and reads it with a smile. "Who's the letter from?" asks Applejack curiously.
"My twin sister, Red," replies Bartlett. "Re Re always wants to know what I'm doing and what I'm up to. She also asked about Grandpear."
"That's sweet of her to check up on you and Grandpear," replies Applejack as she kisses him on the cheek.
Bartlett then sticks the letter in his saddle bag and the two head off to a nice lunch at the Ponyville Cafe. At the cafe, the two enjoy a nice lunch and a nice dessert of cake and ice cream as well. Once they finish lunch, they go for a walk along the Ponyville River and then into the park where they stop at the fountain and share a nice kiss session. The two are so glad that they've met each other. As they're kissing, Grandpear looks over their way and gets up and approaches them.
"Oh shoot," says Bartlett, letting go of the kiss. "It's Grandpear."
Applejack also backs out of the kiss. She then jumps into place behind him, trying to hide from Grandpear. "Hey Grandpear," says Bartlett as Grandpear approaches.
"Hey sport," replies Grandpear, "what have you been up to lately?"
"Uh, nothing," stutters Bartlett.
"Really? I thought you were dating Applejack," replies Grandpear.
"And you're not mad about that?" inquires Bartlett.
"Of course not," replies Grandpear as he bursts out laughing. He then walks back towards the picnic blanket where he's sitting with Granny Smith, Apple Bloom, and Big Mack. Applejack and Bartlett are relieved. They're so glad Grandpear approves of their romantic relationship. Now, they don't have to worry about hiding it from him any longer.
The next day, Applejack and Barlett spend the morning at the movie theater for their first date before going off to watch Apple Bloom's dance recital and Big Mack's performance with the Ponytones. At the theater, Applejack places her head on his shoulder and Bartlett just smiles. As they continue to watch, Applejack continues to move closer and Barlett pushes her back a little bit and she finally lets loose and sits back up in her seat and removes her head from his shoulder. A few hours later, the two leave the theater.
A few minutes later, they arrive at Apple Bloom's dance recital where they watch her perform Swan Lake with the rest of the dance students. As they sit in the crowd a few rows in front of Granny Smith and Grandpear, they can't help but smile as they watch Apple Bloom enjoy herself. Two hours later, the recital comes to an end and the two, along with the rest, head off to the Ponytones performance to see Big Mack.
At the Ponyville Mayoral Building, the Apples enter the building and take their seats in the front row and begin to watch the performance. As Big Mack sings, Bartlett leans over and whispers in her ear. "AJ, I never knew your brother could sing."
"Where have you been for the last ten years?" says Applejack as she pushes him to the side and tells him to quiet back down. Bartlett doesn't talk for the rest of the performance. Applejack happily smiles as she watches her brother sing and enjoy himself. A few hours later, the performance comes to an end and they all go and embrace Big Mack in a great big hug. The family then goes off to dinner and ice cream together. It's truly been an amazing day for all of them especially Bartlett and Applejack since that morning was truly their very first date that wasn't just them talking about her parents' death.
The next day, Bartlett comes over to the Apple Family farm for breakfast. Once she sees him approaching, Applejack opens the door and awaits his arrival and a few minutes later, he strolls right in. "Good morning, sweetheart," says Applejack to him as she gives him a kiss on the cheek and then sits him down and puts some Apple Praline pancakes with pear jam and apple syrup in front of him, which he begins to down happily.
A few minutes later, Apple Bloom enters the kitchen followed by Big Mack. "Hey sis," says Apple Bloom, "hey Bartlett."
"Hey sugar cube," replies Applejack as she watches her little sister take her seat. Applejack then walks over and puts a plate of pancakes in front of her and then another plate of pancakes in front of Big Mack. She then makes a plate for herself and sits down with them and they all enjoy breakfast together.
"So, what are you up to today?" says Bartlett with a smile towards Apple Bloom.
"I'm going to the fair with Sweetie Belle, her boyfriend, Button Mash, and Scootaloo," replies Apple Bloom.
"And you?" Bartlett inquires as he looks towards Big Mack. Big Mack just sits there and stares at the Pear boy for a minute before answering.
"There's a hay bale kicking contest today and I'm a part of it," replies Big Mack, "you should come with."
"Okay, I think I will," replies Bartlett with a smug grin appearing on his face. A few minutes later, Apple Bloom goes outside and meets up with her friends and they head for the fair and Big Mack and Bartlett head off to the train station and off to Appleloosa for the hay bale kicking competition. Applejack just hopes her brother doesn't get her boyfriend in a headlock by the end of the day. After all, he is still the overprotective big brother when it comes to keeping her and Apple Bloom safe.
A few hours later, the boys arrive in Appleloosa and meet up in the center arena in town and get their numbers before heading to their assigned stack of hay bales. "Good luck," says Big Mack to Bartlett with a grin on his face.
"To you too," replies Bartlett with a grin on his own face.
"And ready! set! Buck them bales!" hollers Braeburn. The two along with the other competitors then begin kicking them one after the next.
Back at the farm, Applejack does some baking after spending some time at her mother and father's tree telling them all about her recent dates with Bartlett. After hours of baking, Applejack goes off to the fair and enjoys the day there by herself for most of the time before running into Rara and her boyfriend Spotlight. After that, the three enjoy the fair together until the fair closes and Applejack has to walk her sister and sister's friends home for the night. Applejack is glad she got to see Rara and tell Rara about her new boyfriend, Bartlett, which shocked Rara as much as it shocked herself at first. Rara would never have expected AJ to date a Pear and a few weeks ago, Applejack never would've expected she'd end up with a Pear herself. Then again, Pears are her blood as much as Apples and Oranges are.
Around noon the next day, Bartlett and Big Mack return home from the hay bale kicking competition in Appleloosa. "How'd it go boys?" asks Applejack as they walk through the door.
"It went well," they reply.
"I got first place," replies Big Mack, "for the fifth year in a row."
"Congratulations and I'm glad it went well for both of you," replies Applejack with a smile. "Now can I talk to Bartlett in private?" Big Mack nods and leaves the room.
"So," says Applejack to Bartlett, "the Grand Galloping Gala is coming up and I was wondering if you'd be my date, my plus one for the event?"
"Oh, I'd love too," replies Bartlett as he sweeps her into his arms and gives her a great big kiss on the lips. Applejack just blushes. A few minutes later, he puts her back down. "I can't wait to go with you."
"Awe, thanks, you're so sweet," replies Applejack as she kisses him back. Bartlett then goes and pours them both a hot cup of cinnamon cider. The two then sit down and begin to talk about the Gala in more detail. Tomorrow, Applejack will head to Rarity's to get her gala dress made and a suit made for him. She can't wait!
The next day, Applejack and Bartlett go to Rarity's. "Hey dolls," she says as they walk through the door. "Dress and suit, right?"
"Yup," replies Applejack.
"Okay, what do you want in your gala wears?" asks Rarity with a smile.
"Nothing too fussy, simple gold and apple details," replies Applejack.
"And I want something simple, a black tux with gold and pear accents," replies Bartlett, "no coattails though. I tend to trip over them."
"Sure thing," replies Rarity with a smile. A few minutes later, Fluttershy, Rainbow, Pinkie, and Twilight enter and give Rarity their orders as well." They, Applejack, and Bartlett then go into the lounge area and relax and talk while Rarity works. They learned from last time not to stress her out as she works. A few hours later, the band then goes off to lunch while Rarity stays at her shop and works. Six weeks later, the dresses and suit are done and just in time for the Gala as it is two weeks away. She even had time to finish up her own outfit for the Gala. She's excited. They're all excited. After all, aside from the Friendship Festival, the Gala is the biggest event in all Equestria.
It's two weeks later and finally the night of the Gala. As the trumpets sound, Applejack and Bartlett enter the grand hall and are let in by the guard. Him announcing their arrival. "Presenting Applejack and Bartlett Pear." Says the guard. He blows the horn again.
A few minutes later, the rest of the Mane Six arrive and their arrival is also announced by the guard. "Presenting Princess Twilight Sparkle and guard Flash Sentry. The belle of the ball, Miss Rarity. Fluttershy and her escort of the night, her brother Zephyr Breeze. The resident Wonderbolt, Rainbow Dash and her escort of the night, fellow Wonderbolt, Soarin. Finally, the party pony herself, Pinkie Pie, escorted tonight by Cheese Sandwich and her sister Maud." The group then go over and join Applejack and Bartlett.
After an hour of talking, the friends all go their separate ways. Applejack and Bartlett go out onto the dance floor as do Twilight and Flash, Rainbow and Soarin, and Pinkie and Cheese. "This is nice," sighs Applejack as she dances with her forehead on Bartlett's shoulder.
"Yeah, it sure is," responds Bartlett with a sigh and a smile.
"I always enjoy a nice dance," giggles Pinkie to Cheese.
"I couldn't agree more!" exclaims Cheese.
"Hon, this is sweet," says Rainbow to Soarin as he slips a ring onto her wing as they dance. "I'm so glad we get to spend the rest of our lives together."
A few minutes later, the music comes to an end and the ponies disperse. Applejack and Bartlett go for a walk through the garden. Rainbow and Soarin go to celebrate their engagement along with the rest of the Wonderbolts and Pinkie and Cheese go off to the punch table and get something to drink. Everything is perfect.
As they walk through the garden, Applejack smiles as she walks with her head on his shoulder. A few minutes later, they arrive in front of a fountain, where they stop. "Why are we stopped?" asks Applejack puzzled. Bartlett then gets down on one knee and pulls out a ring.
"Applejack, will you marry me?"
Applejack then looks at him startled. "Yes. Yes." She squeals. "I'll marry you!" The two then embrace in a hug and head back inside. Once inside, Applejack and Rainbow admire their rings together.
"I can't believe he wants to marry me!" the two sigh at the same time. The two then break out laughing. They both can't wait to be brides and more importantly, wives. Their dreams are finally coming true and they couldn't ask for more than that. The two then go their separate ways with their husbands to be. Applejack and Bartlett go to get something to drink while Rainbow and Soarin go and get in position for their Wonderbolt flight display they're about to do over the top of the Gala. In their minds, it's truly the best night ever.
A few minutes later, the Wonderbolts take to the skies and soar over the gala. "Whoa, that's cool!" says Bartlett to Applejack. "Your friend is an impressive flyer!"
"Yep, and we're all so proud that she is a Wonderbolt and engaged to one of her fellow Wonderbolts no less," responds Applejack with a smile.
"Seems like tonight is just everypony's lucky night, huh?" responds Bartlett.
"Yeah, sure does," responds Applejack as she kisses him on the cheek.
A few minutes later, Applejack and Bartlett are approached by a young mare with a pear cutie mark. "Hey cousin Bartlett," said the mare.
"Hey Crisp Pear," responds Bartlett. "I'm glad you were able to make it. I'd like for you to meet my bride to be, Applejack."
"Nice to meet you, Applejack," responds the mare as she shakes Applejack's hoof. The three then go off and get some cider to drink from the table in the back of the gala. While they stand around the cider bowl, they laugh and talk and have an amazingly great time.
"So Crisp Pear, you say you live in Appleloosa with your folks?" asks Applejack.
"Yeah, we just moved to Appleloosa. It's a nice country town. It really is," responds Crisp Pear.
"I have family out there too," responds Applejack. "Have you met Braeburn?"
"Yeah, he's a nice guy," responds Crisp Pear. "He and his fiance Crisp Apple are really sweet."
"Yeah," responds AJ, "they sure are. I love them and am very happy for them."
A few minutes later, the three head back onto the main gala floor and Bartlett takes his cousin onto the floor and dances with her for a few minutes before swapping her out and dancing with Applejack. As they dance, AJ leans her head on his shoulder and lets out a sigh. She then looks up at the sky and sees a rainbow stretch overhead. She then smiles as she looks back down at Bartlett. "Tonight really is the best night ever," she sighs to herself.
A few hours later, around midnight, the Gala finally comes to an end. Applejack and Bartlett return to Ponyville after dropping Pear Crisp off in Appleloosa. Once they're back in Ponyville, the two go enjoy some time to themselves in the barn with the puppies, the newest litter, Winona's second litter of seven. "Can I have a puppy once they're older?" asks Bartlett.
"Of course," responds Applejack. "I can tell you this much, my friends already have dibs on the other six."
"Okay, as long as I just get one of them, I'm happy," responds Bartlett as he puts his hooves around her and gives her a kiss on the cheek.
"And as long as I get to marry you, I'm happy," responds AJ with a smile and a giggle. She really and truly can't wait until their wedding day. Bartlett is the love of her life. That is one thing that will never ever change and for that, she couldn't be more grateful.
A few weeks later, Applejack and Bartlett start wedding playing and Applejack begins shopping for a wedding dress. That afternoon, while at Rarity's getting fitted in a wedding dress, the two share a chat. "Am I doing the right thing? Marrying Bartlett?"
"Yes, darling, you love him, no?" responds Rarity with a smile.
"Yes, I do," responds Applejack, "yet it still feels wrong somehow."
"Well, you are marrying your kin," responds Rarity. "Try not to think about that."
"Okay," responds Applejack. "Thanks for the dress fitting."
"You're welcome," responds Rarity with a smile, "I'm so glad you're finally getting married. I'm so glad you're finally happy, Applejack." Applejack then leaves the store and goes to the flower shop where she meets up with Bartlett. The two then go inside.
"What kind of flowers do you want?" says Bartlett turning to Applejack.
"Pear blossoms and apple blossoms," responds Applejack. "That way, it'll feel like I have a part of my parents with me when I walk down the aisle."
Barlett nods and tells this information to the flower mares. They agree to do the special arrangement since Applejack has helped them so much in the past. Applejack thanks the mares with a hug. They then go to Sugar Cube Corner and put in the cake order with Pinkie Pie.
"I'm so happy for you, Applejack," says Pinkie as she writes down the specifics of the wedding cake they want.
"Awe, thanks, Pinkie," responds Applejack with a smile. "Now can I ask you a second question?"
"Sure, anything, what is it?" responds Pinkie with a smile.
"Will you be one of my bridesmaids?" asks Applejack.
"Of course," responds Pinkie, "I'd love to. Have you talked to Rara about singing at your wedding yet?"
"No, but I'm going to ask her later today," responds AJ. "Thanks."
A few hours later, Applejack sits down to lunch with Rara, where she drops the question. "Ra," says AJ with a smile, "will you sing at my wedding?"
"AJ, of course, I will, I'm honored," responds Rara with a smile.
"Thanks," responds AJ, "that means the world to me."
A few hours later, Applejack and Rara go and enjoy a movie together while Bartlett is busy getting the rings designed at the jewelers. As they watch the movie, the two friends can't help but laugh and smile. The two have grown closer than they've ever been and they have a feeling that bond is only gonna get stronger as soon as Applejack gets married and to them, that's the best feeling in the world.
A few hours later, the movie comes to an end and the two friends part ways. Applejack returns home to Bartlett who is happy eating a piece of pie on the couch. "Hey," says Applejack as she plops down beside him.
"Hey," responds Bartlett. "How did you enjoy your day with Rara?"
"It was fun," responds Applejack. "She's going to sing at our wedding."
"Good," responds Bartlett. "I know you're excited about that."
"Are all your friends going to be your bridesmaids?" asks Bartlett.
"Yes," responds Applejack. "And the mayor is going to oversee it just like she did for my parent's wedding." Applejack then lays her head on Bartlett's shoulder and he begins to run his hooves through her mane. As he does this, Applejack lets out a sigh and a smile spreads across her face. She can't wait to marry him. It's the last dream in her life come true.
The next day, Applejack enjoys brunch with Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Rara. "So," says AJ to them, "I'm glad we get to hang out together. I've asked Pinkie this already, but would you girls also be my bridesmares? Rainbow? Rare? Flutters? Twi? what do you say?"
"Sure, we'd love to," respond the four friends. AJ then turns to Rara.
"Would you like to be my mare of honor alongside singing in the wedding?"
"Sure," responds Rara, "I'm honored." The two embrace in a hug.
The friends then get back to enjoying their brunch together. As they eat their food and drink their coffee, the friends can't help but think about what changes are soon going to happen in their lives. Applejack is soon to be married, as is Rainbow. Rara is expecting but hasn't told anypony yet. Everything is just changing so fast and they can hardly believe it. A few hours later, the friends finish up and pay for their meals. The friends then all go to the carnival together for the day where they ride all the coasters and even get their faces painted. While there, Rara finally lets out the news to her friends whilst they enjoy lunch. "Girls," she says, "I'm expecting a foal."
"That's great! Colt or filly!" responds AJ.
"Don't know," responds Rara. "I'll know in a few weeks."
"Well, I call dibs on being the godmare," responds AJ with a smile and a giggle.
"Deal," giggles Rara in return. A few minutes later, the friends go and enjoy playing the balloon darts booth and Rara ends up winning a giant teddy bear that she gives to AJ. "Consider it an early wedding present." Rara smiles.
"I will," responds AJ with a smile as she embraces Rara in a hug, "thanks." The two then go and grab some caramel apples with the others. They are glad to be in each other's lives almost full time again. To them, it's the best thing in the world.
A few weeks later, it's the day before the wedding and AJ and Rara are out at lunch. As they eat, Rara shares the gender of the foal with Applejack. "The foal is going to be a filly," says Rara, "and I already have a name picked out too, Spectacle Dazzle."
"It's the perfect name," sighs AJ.
"Thanks," responds Rara blushing.
The next day, it's the day of the wedding. While Rara and the girls help get Applejack ready, Big Mack helps get Bartlett ready. "You better treat my little sister right," says Big Mack to Bartlett. "Love her, forever and always."
"I will, I promise," responds Bartlett. "I love her way to much to do something to hurt or betray her."
A few minutes later, the wedding begins. As Applejack walks down the aisle, being led by Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie as her flower girls, she can't help but wear a smile across her face. She can't believe her big day is finally here. A few minutes later, she takes her place in front of Bartlett and the mayor begins the ceremony.
"We are gathered here today," says the mayor, "to join Applejack Apple and Bartlett Pear in holy maretrimony. Several years ago, I also had the joy of doing the same for Applejack's parents and now I'm honored to do it for her as well. Applejack is such a good pony. She is a helper, a friend, somepony to go to whenever you need good advice or a good apple pie. Bartlett, you are lucky to have her. Anyways, Applejack do you take Bartlett to be your lawfully wedded stallion?"
"I do," says Applejack with a smile.
"And do you, Bartlett Pear, take Applejack to be your lawfully wedded wife?"
"Yes," responds Bartlett.
"You may now kiss the bride." The two go in for a kiss then AJ gives Rara the wink along with Rainbow Dash. Rainbow then shoots out of her dress and does a sonic rainboom while Rara begins her song.
"I've known AJ since we were fillies. Now look at her now. She's married. Soon maybe she'll start a family. Love, it's a funny thing. It draws ponies together that are just perfect for each other. These two, they're the perfect pear. Though everything, forever and for always, their love will stand strong. Love will go on and on and on through the ages. Love will never fade, never grow tired, that's a truth that's great to know. Hold that truth close to you in your hearts. You both have a brand new start together in a brand new life together and it's amazing. Look at those smiles on your faces, hopefully they'll never fade away. Love is the strongest magic of all and it's overflowing today. Love is an amazing thing! It's a powerful thing indeed! You two have it all, I'm so happy for you. I'll always be happy for you. Now it's time to celebrate your perfect day in the only way we know how. Let's celebrate it with a party, a song and a dance, and even a friendly bow. Applejack I hope your life will be filled with more and more good things everyday. You have everything you want and more good is coming your way. You have everything you want and more good is sure to come your way!"
Applejack then walks over and embraces Rara in a hug with Bartlett at her side. "Beautiful song, Rara," says AJ with a smile.
"Thanks," responds Rara.
All the friends then walk into the main area of the mayor's hall and enjoy the party thrown by Pinkie Pie to celebrate their sepcial day. As they enjoy their wedding cake, Rara sings a reprise of the song from the wedding. Rainbow stands in the back corner drinking punch with Soaren. Pinkie, meanwhile, is over in another corner cracking jokes with Cheese Sandwich, who proposed to her a few weeks previous to AJ and Bartlett's wedding. Big Mack and a pregnant Cheerilee happily snack on the lighter snacks that Pinkie provided especially for Cheerilee.
"Well, today is just perfect," says Applejack to Bartlett. "I'm so glad I married you."
"And I, you," responds Bartlett. The two then share a kiss.
A few minutes later, the two are approached by Big Mack and Cheerilee. "I'm so proud of you, little sis," says Big Mack with a smile as he embraces her in a hug.
"Thanks, Big Mack," responds AJ with a smile. "So, filly or colt on your end?"
"We're expecting a filly," says Cheerilee with a smile. "We plan on naming her Cherry Mack."
"That's a cute name," responds AJ with a smile.
"Thanks," responds Cheerilee with a smile. "We're excited, so are the other two. Lil Mack and Joy are thrilled to have a new sibling on the way. Lil Mack and Soara's child, Spirit also can't wait to have a cousin."
"Well, I'm happy for all of you," responds Applejack.
"And we for you," responds Cheerilee. She and Big Mack then share a hug with Applejack then walk away. Everything is truly perfect. Applejack can't help but hope one day they'll also have a filly or colt to call their own as well. For now, though, the two have a honeymoon to get off to.
A few days later whilst on their honeymoon, AJ can't help but thinking about what her life is going to hold now that she's married. "Hon," she says as she turns to Bartlett, "we're going to have children together, right?"
"Sure, if you want some," responds Bartlett with a smile. "But let's worry about that after the honeymoon, okay. Right now just enjoy the pool." Applejack nods and slides back down into the pool next to her husband before beginning to swim around a little bit. He's right. She really does need to enjoy the honeymoon a little more.
That night at dinner, the two talk about when they first met and all the good times they've shared. As they talk, the two can't help but laugh. They really do make each other happy and to them, that's the most important part.
A few months later, after returning from their honeymoon, Applejack goes into look at herself in the mirror and notices something that she hadn't noticed before. "Is that a baby bump?" she says to herself puzzled. "Could it be? Yes, it is, I'm pregnant!" She lets out a squeal to the point Bartlett can hear it down the hall and comes running.
"What? What is it?" asks Bartlett.
"I'm, I'm pregnant!" squeals Applejack with a smile on her face as she embraces him in a hug.
"Good for you!" says Bartlett with a smile as he embraces her. "I can't wait to be a father, to a little filly or a little colt."
"And I a mother!" squeals Applejack. Bartlett then puts her back down on the ground and the two go outside and have a sweet picnic together under the apple and pear trees on the edge of the property as they watch the sunset for the night. Once it goes dark, Applejack turns in for the night but not before giving Bartlett a goodnight's kiss. Bartlett on the other hand goes to do one last check around on the farm before turning in for the night himself. All the while he can't help but think about the fact that come eleven to twelve months time that he will be a dad. He just can't believe it.
Over the next five months, Applejack busily works on building stuff by hoof for the nursery with some help from Bartlett. She carves a crib with an apple and a pear in the top, a nice simple rocking chair, among other things. She couldn't be more excited.
A few days earlier at lunch with her friends, she told them all the good news. "Girls," she said with a smile, "Bartlett and I are expecting our first."
"That's so exciting!" squeals Pinkie. "And don't worry, we'll plan you the perfect foal shower."
"Thanks," responds AJ with a smile. "That means a lot." She blushes a bit.
Later that week, it's finally the day of the baby shower. Only two days earlier did she and Bartlett find out the gender: a filly. As AJ approaches, her friends hurriedly finish stacking the gifts just in time for her to open the door. They all smile as they greet their friend.
"Hey AJ," say the girls with a smile. "What do you think?"
"I...I love it," responds AJ with a blush and a smile. They then get her seated and they begin to snack and chat. Eventually, she's asked the big question.
"Filly or colt, darling?" asks Rarity curiously.
"Filly, we found out a few days ago," responds AJ.
"Congratulations!" everypony else chime in. They then begin to let AJ open the presents.
From Twilight, she receives a foal's book titled La Luna. It's a dumbed down version of the story of Nightmare Moon for foals.
"Classic Twilight," says AJ with a smile. "Books are a perfect gift for anything."
From Pinkie, she receives a box of miscellaneous gifts. "Just some things the Cakes wanted to get rid of, hope you like them."
"I love them," AJ responds with a smile.
From Rarity, she receives a hand stitched baby's blanket with apples and pears on it.
"This is lovely, Rares, thanks," responds AJ once more with a smile.
"Don't mention it, darling," responds Rarity.
From Rainbow Dash, she receives a mobile and from Fluttershy, a music box that plays birdsong.
"These are great, guys, thanks RD, thanks Fluttershy," says AJ with a grin.
"No problem," responds Rainbow.
"You're welcome," says Fluttershy.
Once gifts are finished, the friends continue to talk for hours until Bartlett comes and picks Applejack up for a nice dinner date. Everything is going perfect for her and AJ couldn't want it any other way.
After dinner that night comes to an end, AJ takes Bartlett to her parents tree and they sit there and watch the sunset together as well as the shooting stars as they fly by. "I've always been told by Granny that those shooting stars are how Maw and Paw watch over me and my siblings from above," AJ says as she cracks a smile. "And honestly, I think she's right. I think it's true that they still watch over us from up there, somewhere."
"And your Granny is right, they are up there watching over you, sweetheart," responds Bartlett as he takes her hoof in his with a smile on his face and a shine in his eye. The two then share a kiss. "They're watching after you and your siblings and I'm sure they're very proud of you, too."
"Awe, thanks," responds AJ with a blush. They then continue to sit there for hours until it's almost dark before returning to the farmhouse at Sweet Apple Acres. After all, when the time comes, AJ wants her foal to be born on the same farm she and her siblings were all those years ago.
Seven months later, AJ gives birth to a healthy filly named Apple Tartlett. The little filly was born with a pale yellow coat and a green mane. “She’s adorable,” says Bartlett with a smile.
“She’s a little cutie,” adds Apple Bloom with a smile. “Congratulations big sis!”
“Proud of you, AJ,” adds Big Mack as he hugs her.
“Thanks,” responds AJ as she cries happy tears as she’s hugged by her siblings and husband.
A few moments later, they leave her so she can nurse the crying filly and get some rest. “You’re perfect,” sighs Applejack, “if only your grandparents were alive to meet you. I know they’re looking down on you from above though.”
Over the following days, AJ gets visits from her friends along with Granny, Babs, and Apple Bloom’s friends.
“She’s precious, even though they’re no longer with us, they’d be proud of you,” sniffles Granny as she holds little Apple Tartlett in her hooves and rocks her back and forth.
“I know, Granny,” cries and sniffles AJ. “I know.”
“Nice to meet my lil cous,” says Babs Seed with a grin.
“She’s such a cutie,” babble Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo. “Congrats on motherhood AJ and congrats on aunthood Apple Bloom.”
“Thanks,” respond the sisters with smiles on their faces.
After several hours, everypony leaves and Bartlett returns as AJ sleeps with the little filly in a crib next to her. He can’t help but smile. He’s so proud to be a father. “I’m gonna be the best father to you,” whispers Bartlett to the filly over her crib. “I promise.” Eventually, he leaves for a coffee before returning so he can keep an eye on his wife and foal. He has no plan on leaving AJ’s side even though she and the foal are coming home in the next week’s time.
A week later, Applejack and little Apple Tartlett come home from the hospital to the open arms of Granny, Babs, Apple Bloom, Big Mack and to her surprise, Braeburn is in town too. “Oh, Howdy Braeburn,” says AJ with a smile. “I didn’t know you were in town.”
“Well, it was kinda a last minute trip,” responds Braeburn. “I was called by one of our other cousins, Apple Zinger to help her move into her new house in Ponyville.”
“Oh yeah, I forgot that was recently, her move that is,” says AJ with a giggle as she rubs her neck with her hoof. “Would you like to meet little Apple Tartlett?”
“Sure,” says Braeburn. He comes over to where AJ is seated on the couch and she lets him hold the filly. “She’s beautiful, AJ. She looks so much like you and Bartlett.”
AJ blushes. “Yeah, she’s perfect. I’m so glad to be a mother.” Braeburn stays and catches up with his family for a little while before returning to his cousin Apple Zinger’s house. There, he helps her continue to unpack boxes.
“So, how was the trip to AJ’s? Did you meet little Apple Tartlett?” Inquires Apple Zinger.
“It was good and yes, I got to meet little Apple Tartlett,” responds Braeburn with a smile. “That filly is the perfect mix and blend of both her parents. She really and truly is.”
“Well, I’m heading over there later this week, I’m excited. I can’t wait. It feels like it’s been awhile since we had any new foals born into the family.”
“Well, it has been awhile, hasn’t it?” Braeburn finally admits. He’d never thought about it before. He gets back to helping Zinger unpack. By the end of the day, they’re done and head to Sweet Apple Acres to join the rest of their family for dinner. After they eat, everyone takes turns holding little Apple Tartlett and ogling over the filly. Everything is perfect. AJ is not overwhelmed at all, she’s just glad to have all her family around even though she is super tired.
