A life remembered is a life well lived. But what happens when the memories begin to disappear? *A Sunset Shipping Contest Entry*
They say a life remembered is a life well-lived, and Twilight and I lived a very good life. But when there's more years behind you than there are in front, memories are all you have. Lose those and what do you have left?
That I can answer that question at all breaks my heart all over again.
“Hey, girls. Ugh, what a day. Pop quiz in Calc two, missed lunch because the library checkout line took forever…”
“Huh? Oh, a soda would be great, Fluttershy. Thanks. I’m parched!”
“Ah! Ice cold too. Phew, that’s better!”
“Oh, by the way, I spotted those two cardinals in the big tree just past the SigEp house on my way over. They seem to be pretty active, so whatever you did for them seems to be working.”
“Well, much as I’d love another chance to kick your butt at Bash Bros, Rainbow, I’ll have to raincheck for later– Hey now, it’s not my fault that you keep picking an easily countered fighter. Alright, you get to pick the stage next time too. Maybe it’ll help you, hehe.”
“You went to the library too, Pinkie? Yeah, amen to that. What a mess it is this semester. It was way easier to get in and out of there when Notepad was running the show.”
“I know, right? He retires and the whole library goes to pot almost overnight! We really need to talk Twilight into taking more volunteer shifts there. She could have it humming again in no time.”
“Oh, see ya, AJ! Hope your evening class goes well! We’ll save some pizza for you just in case!”
“What did you say, Rarity? Oh, yes, well, I guess that's ‘humming’ along nicely too. At least I think.”
“It’s only been two dates, you know. They’ve been great of course, and we both enjoyed the picnic, so thanks for the good idea there. But, sorry, marriage hasn’t come up yet. See, even Pinkie knows that life doesn’t work quite like those romance novels you like to read.”
“Ha ha. All kidding aside though, it’s been great. We planned to see a movie next weekend, so I guess a third date’s in the works. I know, I’m excited too. But… kinda nervous too. Perhaps Twilight is too. I mean, we’re all friends. Great friends. I suppose we’re putting that at risk a bit here, if this doesn’t work out.”
“Oh, I appreciate it, Shy. You’re probably right. If we can survive multiple versions of us and countless magical attacks on our old high school, I doubt a few dates will ruin us.”
“So, Rarity. Need some extra advice here. What’s a good dinner pairing with a sci-fi double feature?”
“That was a great double feature tonight. Well, the second film was better than the first. But I never was much into the ‘world invaded by huge insects’ thing anyway.”
“Oh totally. This new Space Trek seemed kinda sketchy based on the trailers, but it surprised me for sure. Eh, the hi-def space battles probably helped too.”
“More importantly though, I’m glad you enjoyed, Twilight. This was fun-”
“Oh, you’re welcome! I have to give credit to Rarity though. She suggested Italian as a good ‘third date’ meal. Freaking good restaurant too, right?”
“Of course we can go back some time. That might require a fourth date though, if that’s alright– Ack, I never get this light green. Always red.”
“Your research says it’s bad form to hit the same restaurant on consecutive dates? I’d ask for a citation, but I’m going to pretend you’re not just making that up. Aha! Ah don’t tickle! Eek! T-Twilight the light’s green! Eee!”
“Whew! O-okay! Gas pedal. O-Oh! No, you can leave your hand there. It’s not in the way of the shifter at all. I’ll just… adjust a bit. There. That’s nice. Really nice.”
“Okay, there we are. Casa de Twilight.”
“Uh uh. I’ll get your door. Chivalry ain’t just for guys you know. Oh stop, you’re making me blush again.”
“Front door service, m’lady.”
“I had a great time tonight, Twilight.”
“Yeah, it was indeed. Even with the icky superbug movie.”
“Listen, I have to ask before I go though… And yeah, I know, nerves and all. But, are you happy? I mean with these dates? Or, rather, dating me? I-I know it’s only been a few but– oh!”
“…”
“Mhm… hah…”
“Oh wow. W-well, may I take that as a yes then? Heh, wow. Sure, of course. S-See you in lab tomorrow then?”
I’m not sure exactly how to say this diplomatically, so I’ll just be up front. You and I are dating. Ah, that’s not right either. Well, it is, because we are dating. And by “we” I mean the other you and I.
Then again, you and her aren’t exactly the same, so maybe in a way I’m not dating you and this is all a moot point? You do look the same physically, at least to my eye. Not that I’ve been checking you- er, either of you out that much. Okay, maybe I have. A lot. Hehe, but you know what I mean, right? Okay, look. You’re a cute mare and I’m sure you could snag any stallion or mare you wanted. And well, other you is a cute woman too. Really cute and dorky and kind and down to earth and cute…
Rambling now. Sorry.
My point is, we’ve been dating for about six months now, beginning this past summer, and it’s been wonderful. She’s wonderful. We’re wonderful. The rest of the girls are 100% on board too, which makes it even better between all of us. And I wanted to let you know, so you’re not shocked or confused on your next trip over. Maybe I’m overthinking, but I thought it’d be mean not to tell you, all things considered.
Anyway, I hope all is well over there. Take care, and… thanks for being you. In any universe.
“Hey, AJ! Merry Christmas! How are you? I’m great, thanks! Well, cold, but great!”
“Whew! Nice and toasty in here. Things went from ‘a little chilly’ to ‘north pole’ overnight it seems. Oh, I brought a change of shoes, so where should I put these soggy boots? In the mud room? Oh, you don’t have to take them yourself– alright, thank you…”
“Mhmm, smells delicious in here already. Oh, hey girls! Merry Christmas!
“Yes, Twilight should be along soon. She’s helping close out the last of the check-ins at the campus library before they close for semester break. I offered to pick her up, but she insisted, as always.”
“Yeah, I know Pinkie. This is what we get for encouraging her to pick up more shifts there, right? Ha!”
“Things are going great, Rarity. Can’t believe we’re at ‘first Christmas together’ already, to be honest. Feels like we just went on our first date yesterday. Having you girls around though to support us has been a blessing, believe me. And yes, I’ll admit, you may have helped nudge both of us into going out on a date in the first place. Just a little though, ha ha.”
“Hmm? Oh there she is! We were just talking about you, Twi! Come on in! Mwah!”
“Wait, one more kiss. Dash’s gag face is too cute!”
“Whew, I’m stuffed! I had no idea you and your brother were secretly Michelin-starred chefs, AJ!”
“Well, then your parents’ were chefs at least, because their recipes worked like a charm! Hey, when you manage to put even Dash into a food coma, you know it was top-notch. Thank goodness actual Christmas is still a week out. Maybe by then we’ll be hungry again, hehe.”
“Well said, Rares. Not much wine left on the table, but here’s to the Apples. Thank you for hosting us tonight, and cooking this wonderful meal. Cheers!”
“Oh ho? Dishes first? I see, making us work for our presents then, AJ? Ha ha, just joking. Sure, we can help out. Oof, if I can get out of this chair first! Twi, pull me up!”
“Evening, Twi! My gosh you look like you’re freezing! Get inside!”
“Oh, you’re shivering, love. Did the heater die in your car again? Ugh, and Shiny thought he had it fixed too. Here, sit on the couch. I’ll fix some tea.”
“Alright. All I have is jasmine right now, but I know you like that one too, so. I got it, I got it. I’ll just set it down- there! Nice and hot for you.”
“You’re welcome. Oh, and lest I forget–”
“I so love those extra warm kisses. Hehe, remember when we got the hot latte and the frappe a while back? Heh, I’ll never get tired of that hot and cold effect.”
While you warm up, I’ll get the DVD player going. It’s still a couple of hours until midnight anyway and the TV specials are just ugh. Want me to kick the heater up a notch too? No? You sure? Well then, gives me an excuse to grab an extra blanket. Here, pass me your coat.”
“Oh, I like the outfit! Someone went shopping with Rarity I see. Looks good on ya! Okay, tea time for myself too. One sec.”
“Yeah, that car’s been a pain for you lately. I guess age is catching up with it. We’re going to your parents’ place tomorrow for Christmas Day anyway, so we can ask Shining to come take another look at it.”
“No, I’ll drive for sure. Can’t have you turning into an icicle on the way down the road. Besides, without a defroster, it’ll be hard to keep the windows clear in this weather.”
“The things we do for love, right? Heh, I love you too.”
“Now, we’ve got Comedy, Sci-Fi, or we can fire up FilmFlix and see what’s new. But before we do any of that, I’ve got something else for you. Be right back.”
“So I may have been holding out on you back at AJ’s place. I just… well I wanted you to give you this present without the others around. I hope you like it.”
“...”
“It’s made with Rose Quartz. Nothing too extravagant, I’ll admit. But I saw it at the mall and it caught my eye, so- Oh, I’m glad you like it!"
"I love you too, Twilight.”
“Hmm, I was wondering how long it would take you to sense that. Yes, it is giving off a magical signature. That’s because I infused it with some of my magic. Put it on and you’ll see what I mean. Oh, here, let me get your hair.”
“Got it. See how it’s changed colors a bit? It’s reacting to your presence. Which is a relief, because I couldn’t test it out to see if the spell worked without spoiling the surprise. But there’s one more piece to this…”
“Yes, that’s the same pendant. I bought two of them because I’d like each of us to have one. If you’re willing, I’d like to keep a bit of your magic, your presence with me too. Back in Equestria, unicorns would often trade a bit of their magic with each other as a sign of love, trust… and commitment. I guess the better term here is like a promise ring, but my intent is the same.”
“I love you, Twilight Sparkle. I love you more than anything. You’re my friend first, but you’ve become my rock, my center too. These past months have been the best of my life, and I want there to be so many more to come. I know we still have a few more semesters in front of us, but I’m willing to wait that long and more for you. I promise.”
“Thank you so much. I love you too. Here, I wrote the spell form down for you, in case you want to double check my work."
"Sure thing. Go for it, love. I love watching you work anyway.”
“Wow, the glow it gives off is mesmerizing. And here I thought I did a good job on yours too. This is wonderful.”
“Sure, you can put mine on. I’d be honored. Let me grab my hair out of the way…”
“It’s gorgeous. Thank you, Twi. I can’t tell you how happy this makes me.”
“Well, if you’re happy then I’m happy. So, any thoughts on that movie– oh, you have an extra gift for me too? Huh, we’re both full of surprises tonight.”
“Sit back on the couch and close my eyes? Oh, a surprise eh? Alright then. One sec… okay, all set. Oh, well you know where the bathroom is. Hurry back though!
“Hmm, what does she have up her sleeve…”
“Yep! Still here with eyes closed!”
“I can hear you at least… whoa, want me to move over so you don’t have to step over me– ok, I’ll stay put.”
“Open my eyes now? Alright, here goes–”
“Oh wow. I, um… h-how…”
“Nonono! Nothing’s wrong, Twilight! You look amazing! Gorgeous! Just surprised is all! I-I wasn’t expecting that at all… but believe me, there’s nothing wrong at all.”
“May I?”
“So soft and silky… and it fits you perfectly. Yeah, you went shopping with Rarity alright. It’s beyond perfect. So… my sexy magical goddess, what did you have in mind?”
“O-Oh? Well, that’s… farther than we’ve gone before. W-Wait, I c-can’t answer if you’re doing that– yes that right there. A-Are you sure? Are we sure?”
“Oh damn… you’re so– okay I’ll take that as a yes.”
“Woohoo! We did it girls! Canterlot U class of 2020!”
“I know! We all went in together and now we all graduated together. And, as Twilight reminded me the other day, we averaged less than two equestrian magic incidents per year overall. In that case, I’ll side with Dash and say that probably qualifies us as superheroes.”
“Heyyyy! There’s the top student in her department! Ahhh give me a hug, Twi! Ah! Woo! I’m so proud of you, Twi! All of us are!”
“Group hug, girls! Bring it in!”
“Oh, hey Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle! A picture? Yes, that’d be awesome! Thanks!”
“Twilight, when we first met I tried so hard to avoid you. I tried to avoid you because of the things I had done before you ever stepped foot in CHS, to people you knew then, and to others whom you'll probably never see. Seeing you then only reminded me of my sins, and it was almost too much to bear.
"But just as Pinkie, Rainbow, Rarity, AJ, and Fluttershy accepted you, so too did you accept me in turn. I felt hopelessly lost in a maze of my own creation, but thanks to you I persisted, and even thrived. Through your support and encouragement I discovered the deeper connection we shared, first as friends and mages, then as lovers and soulmates. You became like my own star, so full of passion and curiosity and empathy and love. You became my shield, never bending under even the darkest of clouds. We have been through so much in such a short time, yet I know that both of us have emerged stronger and happier than either of us could have dreamed.
“I love you, Twilight. I love you more than I can ever say, in ways that mere words cannot describe. I want every day to be a new adventure, every night to be full of passion and love and dreams of what comes next. I am thankful for every moment spent in your arms, in your presence. And I never want those moments to end.
“And so, I swear myself to you, Twilight Sparkle. From this day forth, I will stand by your side as your wife, your lover, and your friend. I will share your triumphs, and help you shoulder the load of your downfalls. Come what may, I will be by your side through it all, no matter how high we climb or how low we fall. I love you, Twilight; with all of my heart, with all of my body, with all of my soul, now and forever.”
Thank you so much for your kind words in your last letter. Odd as it may sound on paper, part of me wishes you could have been here to witness the ceremony. I may have been marrying a princess in my heart, but the wedding was small and fairly simple. Just close family and friends. Honestly, it reminded me a bit of the intimate affairs that take place all over Equestria; or at least outside of Canterlot’s fancy ballrooms, ha ha.
Since you asked, the honeymoon was amazing. Turns out the the girls got together with Twilight’s parents and surprised us with a trip to Spain! Oh gosh it was just heaven over there. Gorgeous monasteries built into a mountain just like Celestia’s castle. Gorgeous coastal beaches as far as the eye can see, and the old world architecture! Our classmate Rose recommended us to a small Flamenco joint in Barcelona and oh wow was that an experience. Amazing stuff! I wish I could send photos through this book! You’d love it! Part of me wonders how similar this all looks to Marecelona, now that I think about it.
Of course we’re both flattered over the gift that you offered. Silverware inlaid with real crystals from the Crystal Empire would be magnificent in any universe. If we ever do crack the code of sending everyday items through the portal, we’d be proud to put it to use in our home.
Speaking of which: it looks like home is about to change for us. I always planned on taking a semester off before jumping into grad school. Twilight of course got right back into it almost as soon as we got back to campus. Between her research stipend and my job at the local izakaya, things have been fine though. Tight but fine.
But Twilight’s been offered a fully paid research fellowship in Seattle. It’s all but impossible for us to turn it down. The boost for her career is immense, of course, but fully paid too? Our meager bank account would thank us. But I’d have to re-apply to a grad school up there from scratch, since the one Twi would be going to is way too technical to have anything related to ‘hospitality and management’. Plus we’d be far away from everyone else we know, with no support network to help if things go sideways.
I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t putting a strain on us. Sure we’ve had our disagreements, but we’ve never fought before. Not like you think of when you think of a couple fighting, anyway.
“Oh for god’s sake. I’m sorry I forgot to check the bag for extra wasabi, okay? You still have two whole things of it there, so ration it for once.”
“I’m not getting snippy. I’m annoyed too you know. This isn’t the first time this has happened either, so it’s not my fault.”
“Yes, I know, Twi. This sushi place is way closer to us than my work, but the staff’s not as attentive. We’ve been over this already. Many times!”
“Last time I tried bringing take out home from work you complained it was cold when I got home! So I go here instead, remember? Maybe we wouldn’t have to use this half-assed place so often if you’d just meet me for dinner now and then. Of course, that’d require you to leave the office for more than five minutes.”
“Yes I know. And as soon as you finish that tuna roll you’ll be holed up in that home office of yours for the rest of the night too! And when I wake up tomorrow you’ll already be back on campus!”
“Look! I’m sorry that my job as a service manager at a restaurant isn’t enough to pay the bills, but it’s what I went to school for! It’s what I want to do.”
“I’m working hard too! Both of us are! But that’s no reason to fly off the handle at me over something stupid like some missing wasabi! I’m not one of your half-wit lab assistants!”
“If you want less takeout, be home more often so we can cook more! You do live here, remember? With me, your wife? This is a home, not a crash pad between lab sessions!”
“Fine! Go eat in the lab then! Hopefully you can find your dirty plate later before it gets lost beneath a stack of papers again like last time!”
“Save the lectures, Twi! I’ve heard enough of them! And while you’re at it, use that fancy laptop to look up sushi joints in Seattle! Maybe you’ll find one more to your liking there instead!”
“Good evening to you too, sir. Yes, we’re doing great actually.
“No, not our first time here. This is ten years in a row now. Yep! This is is our anniversary spot. Has been since we moved here a decade ago. Just that good indeed, hehe. Really though, the food is always amazing, and the views over the city can’t be beat. So why change, right?”
“Ah, wine. Yes. We did pick one. Um, let me see… argh, lost my page in the wine list. Eh, do do do... ah! Here. This Cotes du Rhone right… there. Yep, the twenty sixteen.”
“Great, thanks!”
“Well then. Happy anniversary, Twilight.”
“I love you too.”
“Clear city view this time. Good. Hate it when clouds get in the way of a summer day.”
“Beautiful sunset out there too.”
“I knew you would say that.”
“Well, when you’re on nearly fifteen years together, I guess we all get a bit predictable.”
“Nah, you can tell me that anyway. That’s one line that will never get old to me.”
“So, get the usual? Or change it up this year?”
“Oh! The Chateaubriand for two? Wow, that really is changing it up! But sure, let’s go for it! ‘Yolo’, right?”
“Wait, shoot! We need to switch the wine then!”
“Yes, we do. Trust me. I did actually pay attention in that tasting class we took during your research trip to Paris, you know.”
“Um, waiter. Y-yes, sorry! Can we get the Bordeaux instead?”
“Alright, here we are! Oh gosh I’m so excited. Nervous, but excited too.”
“Just look at it, Twi. It still feels like a dream, like we’re going to wake up any second now.”
“Okay, fair point, ha ha. If we really are dreaming of signing stacks of papers until our wrists hurt, then this may be a nightmare instead.”
“Ah, there’s Pitch Perfect’s car now. Alright, let me get my phone and this folder of stuff. Can you get the backpack out of the trunk?”
“Ready, Twi? Let’s do this.”
“Oof. I think I tweaked my back a bit back there. Yeesh.”
“Yeah yeah, you were right. But there was no way I wasn’t carrying you through the front door of our first new home.”
“Heh. Good thing we haven’t totally slacked off of going to the gym then. Otherwise we’d be calling for a medic right now.”
“Still… ah. That new house smell. Amazing, isn’t it? No outdated fixtures, no ugly wallpapers to remove or carpet to re-stretch. All fresh and new, and all for us.
Seriously, just think of how far we’ve come. We started out with one worn out car, a small apartment, and barely any money between us. Now we’ve got a brand new garage to park two cars, and successful and secure careers for us both to make it work. It may have taken us over twenty years to get here, but it’s worth it.”
“Exactly. And we did it together. Now if we can just get more than these two folding chairs in here, it’ll feel a bit more like home.”
“Pfft. I don’t think we can downsize that much, Twi. Besides, I’m pretty sure your folks would have a stroke if you didn’t keep your childhood books.”
“Hey, I’d have left them in their attic back in Canterlot, but I’m not setting myself up for that debate. But we’ve got room now, so it’ll be alright.”
“Yes, time for a toast indeed. Let me check on that bottle in the fridge…
"I just can’t get over this thing. It’s so quiet! And all these adjustable shelves too? Even Luna would be impressed with the storage tricks this thing has.
"Anyway, cava! And perfectly chilled already too! You got those glasses out?”
“Perfect. I'll pour, you hold.”
“Here’s to us. To our new home, and to yet another new chapter.”
“Cheers!”
“Ahh… love this stuff. So good. Hmm? What, Twi?”
“O-Oh… I see. Well then, in that case, I only have one question...
“No, all good here. I was calling about you. I noticed you left your lunch at home again this morning. I brought it with me and put it in the coolers behind the bar. Want me to bring it over to you?”
“I’m at the Cap Hill location today, so I’m not far away. Turns out they won’t need me to train the new guy until Friday, so I don’t need to be here for the full lunch shift.”
“Are you sure? You know you don’t do well in the afternoon on an empty stomach, especially with your acid reflux. Really, I can be over in a jiffy–"
“Okay, fine. Just thought I’d ask. Hey, you feeling alright, Twi?”
“Why? Because you’ve left your lunch at home kinda often lately. And ‘bring lunch’ is on your daily planner list too, and you never miss things on your lists.”
“I’m not implying anything! We’re both over the hill now, remember? I’m just worried is all. Just… promise me you’ll at least get a snack from the cafeteria or something? Please?”
“Alright, I’ll let you go. Love you. See ya tonight.”
“Alright, good morning folks. Welcome to Hot to Trot. My name is Sunset Shimmer, one of the general managers. I trust we all know why we’re here, so I’ll skip the fancy marketing spiel. I know many of you are experienced hands in the restaurant biz, but there’s some new faces too. Soft open is in less than a week and there’s plenty left to do. So I’d like to get right to it. So– er, one second. Sorry, my phone was buzzing in my pocket.
Front of house, stay with me. Kitchen, head back there and check-in with Chef Mirepoix. Bar and bar back, hang tight for just a few minutes. Highball’s caught in some traffic.
Now, first I’d like to– ack, hold on. My apologies, I need to take this. Be right back.”
“Twi, can I call you– whoa whoa whoa! Slow down! What’s wrong? Twi? Twi!”
“Wait, what? You’re where? Slow down honey, I don’t understand. T-Twilight!”
“Okay, now start over. Are you hurt? Was there an accident?”
“No? Oh thank god. Alright… okay… now where are you?”
“The national park? W-what are you doing there? In the middle of the day?”
“Twi, you’re breaking up a bit. Say again? Why’d you go out there?”
“Uh, what do you mean you don’t know? You don’t know how you got out there? Well either way, come home! Please? Is the car still running?”
“You’re lost? B-but how? Why? Baby I don’t understand–”
“Hey hey hey, it’s okay! No need to cry, okay? I’m not mad at you! Really! I’m worried though! Want me to come get you? Do you know how to share your location to my phone?”
“Good. Send it now. I’ll wait.
“Okay, got it. I’ll stop at the ranger station too and bring help in case my phone loses signal in there. Just sit tight. I’ll be there as soon as I can!”
“I-I’m sorry, everyone, but family emergency. I gotta go. Highball should be here any minute. He can get you started. Sorry.”
I’m sorry for the delayed reply to your last message. Between doctor’s appointments, more doctor’s appointments, and still trying to go to work in between, I’ve barely had time to sleep much less get the journal out. I’m sorry about that.
But, we finally have an answer to what’s been afflicting Twilight all this time.
Did you know that less than five percent of all Alzheimer's cases manifest before the victim reaches age sixty-five? Sure, five percent of an estimated thirty billion cases worldwide is still a big number. But still. Less than five percent. You’d have to be really unlucky to fall into such a small fraction of an immeasurably big pool.
Yet here we are. Here Twilight is. Fifty-three years old, physically healthy, still as sharp as a tack, and still at the pinnacle of her career as the head of research at the University and an acclaimed expert in multiple industries.
And it’s all about to be stolen from her.
We got a second opinion. Then a third. Unsurprisingly, Twilight even re-ran some of their tests on herself. But it all lines up. As it turns out, nearly everything we had chalked up to work stress, or a lack of sleep, or too little vacation time used, or just getting old and gray - they were symptoms, Twilight. Early ones, but symptoms all the same. And we missed them.
I should have known something was wrong when she began forgetting her lunch more often than not. Or mixing up her to-do lists. Or getting lost just driving to the store without the GPS turned on. Twi kept ignoring it, or making excuses, or both. Dammit I should have pushed harder. I should have made her go to the doctor sooner. If I had, maybe they could have done something sooner.
Maybe we could have avoided this altogether. I just… just…
P.S. – I don’t know if this disease has an equivalent in Equestria, or something even kind of similar. But if so, I’d appreciate any research or information you can find. Pony minds aren’t human minds, but I have to try everything. If not for me, then for her.
“Ah, it’s so good to see you! Here, let me get your bag for you. Alright, there we go! Let’s chat while we walk. The airport here just gets busier by the minute on Fridays.”
“Good flight I hope?”
“Great to hear. It’s been a while since your last visit, right?”
“Yes! You and the rest of the gang came up for our twenty-fifth anniversary party. Heh, that was a blast. We framed that group photo and put it on the mantle too.”
“But of course we framed the goofy shot. It’s more ‘us’ than anything!”
“And how’s Dash doing? And the kids?”
“Wait, Flare is a junior already? Last time I saw him he was still chasing a soccer ball around your old apartment in Canterlot! I swear time’s flown as fast as a Wonderbolt.”
“Oh, she finally hung up the goggles? Huh, I thought I’d never see the day. But full-time instructor and Operations Chief? That’s awesome! Tell Rainbow I said congrats.”
“Anyway, thanks for coming to spend some time with us, Fluttershy. Really, you and the girls have been a huge help.”
“Twi’s doing… alright. Good days and bad, of course. Right now, it’s been more bad than good.”
“Yeah, her last day was just last week. After that labeling mix up nearly burned down three labs worth of equipment, it became a foregone conclusion. Thankfully the Provost was kind enough to let her retire early but keep her on the books until the end of the calendar year. Getting over that thirty year service mark makes a huge difference in her pension.
And looking at potential medical costs going forward, we’ll need every penny we can get.”
“Still, I know the animal sanctuary misses you. I hope I’m not keeping you away too long?”
“Oh, thanks, Shy. Without you and the girls I don’t know what we’d do sometimes. Alright, here’s the car. Let’s get on the road.”
“Um, Fluttershy? What are you doing sitting on the front step? Is everything alright?”
“Huh? You’re locked out? You could have just call-”
“Oh, your phone’s inside. Right. And I bet the neighbors weren’t home either. It’s a workday after all.”
“Actually, wait a sec, Shy. What about the spare key in the garden shed out back? The fence isn’t locked–”
“Twilight did what?!”
“H-How in the hell? Just… oh my god. Fluttershy, I’m so so sorry you had to go through that. I… okay just stay there. I’ll go in and see what the matter is.”
“No, this isn’t your fault, Shy. We talked about this, remember? I just… didn’t think it would be this soon. Stay here.”
“Twi? Where are you? Twilight! It’s just me! I’m coming upstairs, okay?”
“Ah, there you are. Are you okay, Twilight? Why are you crying?”
“Scared? Of what?”
“The woman outside– wait, you mean Fluttershy? Twi, that’s our friend! Fluttershy! We’ve known her for years! Don’t you remember that she’s been staying with us for almost a week now?”
“You don’t. I… see.”
“No, honey, she’s not a robber, I promise. Is that why you locked her out of the house? But she’s been here for three days already. If she was a robber, why did I let her in in the first place, hmm?”
“Okay, okay. Sorry, I’m not getting mad. I’m just upset that you locked our friend outside like that. And threw away the spare key from the shed too? Look, there’s nothing to be afraid of. Fluttershy’s a friend. A good friend. And she’s here to spend time with you. With both of us. She came all the way from Canterlot, you know.”
“Twilight, look at me. Look. At. Me.
Fluttershy is our friend. Right?”
“Exactly. And she’s here to see us. Right?”
“Right. And she’s staying here for three more days. She’s not a robber and she won’t hurt you. All she wants to do is spend time with you and make you tea. Does that sound good?”
“Good. Now, how about we go downstairs and let her back in, alright?”
“There, that’s great. We’ll make her some tea for sure. I’m sure she’d be thrilled.”
“Hi, Rarity. Sorry we missed each other yesterday. Just playing phone tag and all, hehe.”
“Yes, we did get the new catalog! Came in the mail a few days ago. Another beautiful lineup, as always. I’m sure it’ll be a hit. Oh, pre-orders are already at fifty percent? Awesome!”
“So, some bad news. Unfortunately we won’t be able to make it for Christmas this year.”
“No, it’s- well, I’ll spare you every little detail, but Twilight’s had an accident. Don’t worry, she’s okay, all things considered. Could have been way worse though.”
“No, you’re right. We did cancel her license earlier this year. We had to. There was no way she was going to pass a renewal test, and her reaction times have slowed way down. What happened is, she figured out where I hid the spare keys to the car while I was at work–”
“Yes, still at it. The hospitality business never sleeps after all. But it’s all phone conferences and supplier management for stuff, so I mostly work from home these days. Helps me care for Twi too. Besides, Twi can access retiree benefits early due to her condition, but I certainly can’t. Still a few years to go for me at least.
Anyway… so she found the spare keys and took off. I was on a conference call so I didn’t really hear the garage door until it was too late. By the time I got outside she was already gone.”
“I called the local police first, then grabbed a bunch of neighbors and we took off looking for her.”
“About thirty minutes, actually. Turns out she didn’t make it too far. Got to the big roundabout near the old town square and got stuck. Apparently she drove around in circles for a few minutes before trying to reverse directions, but she lost control and ran the car over the curb and through a nearby fence. Took out a mailbox too. Thankfully she hadn’t picked up too much speed.”
“No no, she’s okay overall. Mostly scrapes and bruises, but because she wasn’t wearing a seat belt, the airbag whacked her in the head pretty good when it deployed. Gave her a decent concussion. Docs don’t want her flying anywhere for awhile, and even if the car wasn’t in the body shop, there’s no way she’d make a four day road trip.”
“Yeah, it’s a bummer, but at least Twi’s okay. That’s the important part.”
“Me? I-I’m fine, Rarity. Really. Shining and his wife will be coming here for Christmas instead, so we can at least see them. Plus I could use his help ‘Twi-proofing’ some more things around the house.”
“Anyway, I better go. It’s about eight PM here and I need to make sure Twi gets her medicine and doesn’t just throw them away instead. Say hi to the family for me.”
“Yes, thank you again for the tour of the campus. It was very informative.”
“I’ll be honest with you, Meadow, it’s a lot to take in. This is the third facility I’ve toured in as many days, so some of the details begin to blend together. But overall, I’m liking what I’m seeing. Sunny Skies seems like it’d be a good fit for Twilight. Especially the variety of activities that are available.”
“Like I said, my wife’s always been a bookworm, but she likes to tinker with things too. And chess. She used to play often, so she’d definitely be interested in the chess club here.”
“Still, I want to do my homework before making a final decision. Not to mention needing to sleep on something like this for a while. So let’s talk some numbers…”
I’m not sure whether the house feels emptier with Twilight in the care facility, or when she was still here. God I know I shouldn’t write that. If anyone else ever reads this, I didn’t mean that like it sounds. It’s just… just… hard.
Hard to wake up alone in this house. Hard to walk downstairs to the office turned bedroom and see it empty. Hard to turn on the downstairs TV and not leave it on the local news rebroadcast channel.
Yet is that any easier than waking up to an empty bed anyway? Or walking downstairs not knowing if she really slept or stayed up all night thinking she was preparing new lecture notes? Is silence any easier than watching her react to every loop of the twelve o’clock news as if it had just happened?
I keep telling myself that it had to be done. I’m not as fast or as strong as I used to be. On the really bad days it was all I could do just to get her meds in her and make sure she ate. And the girls have their own things to deal with, their own families to care for too. They may be old like us but they can’t come at the drop of a hat either now.
But at the same time I hate the empty house, and the care facility, and everything else that goes with them. I hate that this disease took my wife, took our plans, our dreams for our golden years, and ruined them. I hate that for all of this world’s technology there’s little anyone can do for her.
She’s slipping further and further away, Twilight. I can see it, feel it. Little by little, day by day, like sand through an hourglass. I see her, but she doesn’t see me. Not like she used to. It’s as if we’ve become two separate wavelengths that are just slightly out of phase. Always so close, but unable to find each other again.
Maybe that’s the worst part of it all. Knowing that the thing you’re losing is still right there in front of you. Still there, but not really. My wife, but increasingly a stranger. I still love her with all of my being. Does she still think of love when she thinks of me?
That I can’t answer that last question with any real certainty is like a hammer blow to my soul.
“I’m doing alright. Knee’s bothering me something fierce today, but otherwise okay. I might need to breakdown and go see that orthopedist about getting it replaced. Can’t put it off forever I suppose.”
“How is she today?”
“I see…”
“Well, I know the way of course, so I’ll show myself up. See you in a bit.”
“Oh! Um, hello.”
“Yes, I’m Sunset Shimmer.”
“Bluebonnet? Well, nice to meet you too.”
“Uh, no, I don’t work here. Never have. I’m Twilight Sparkle’s wife. She’s a resident here.”
“No no, it’s okay. I’m not offended. Just confused. Why did you think I worked here? People my age are more likely to be residents here than staffers, you know.”
“Wha– Oh. Okay. Well then.”
“Sorry, just wasn’t expecting, well, that. But yes, I’m the ‘redhead who tells stories’ you keep hearing about. Well, my hair used to be a lot redder, anyway. Heh. And they’re stories I guess, but really it’s just me rambling on about a past vacation, or anniversary, or party, or something. Whatever jogs her memory on that day, really.”
“Ah. Well, if you’ve only been here a week, you haven’t seen me much anyway. But yes, I come by nearly every day to see her. Been doing so for over five years now.”
“No, it’s not bad at all. Well, the drive used to be a bit hectic in traffic, but I sold the car a while back. Too much for me to keep up with these days, and there’s a bus line that stops right at the corner here anyway. Besides, the money saved goes towards Twi’s care, so it’s worth it.
“Anyway, nice to meet you, Bluebonnet. Oh! One more thing. Did she ask for me by name? Or, talk about her wife in general?”
“I-It’s nothing. Forget I asked.”
“Heya, sweetie. It’s me again! May I come in?”
“Good to see you, Twilight. Feeling good today?
“Yes, I’ll make sure to tell them to keep the radishes out of your salads from now on. So… Bluebonnet tells me you were asking about me? The girl with the stories, remember?”
“Yes, her. Well, I’m back again with more stories–”
“Yes, Twilight, I’m her. You remember, right? I come by nearly every day, and each time I tell you a story.”
“Well, yes, my hair’s more gray than red these days, but it’s still me! You know, Sunset. Your friend, your wife?
“You do remember… right?”
“Okay then…”
“Tell you what, let me open these blinds a little, let some more sunlight in. There we go. A nice clear evening.”
“Beautiful sunset out there too.”
“...”
“Twilight?”
“...”
“...”
“Okay, if that’s what you want, Twilight. I’ll close the blinds.”
