Autumn

Chapter 1: Busy Day

Dusk Shine never was the romantic kind of person. He was always in the library, studying, researching about absolutely anything. His life changed when he went to Ponyville, meeting actual friends, learning new lessons on magic and even about friendship, but there is one thing about life that he couldn’t really master on. That was Love. Being a young adult and all, he has never fallen in love before. He’s seen other people in love, how they were intoxicated by the emotion, how one person changes their lives forever. He thought he didn’t have time for feeling infatuated with anyone, he wrote some letters to Princess Celestia on how he finds love as an emotion that makes the heart beat. But it never made his beat that way. He loves his family, definitely yes; but he never loved anyone else than family yet.

It all changed when he met Rarity. At first, he treated Rarity as a great friend, someone who is dependable with fashion, poise and lifestyle. She is the Element of Generosity, Dusk could definitely see the generosity she had in her; making free ensembles for the gang, finding a way to make her customers satisfied without asking for anything in return. It was one of the traits Rarity had that Dusk Shine likes. She was also like him, a magician. But her magic is used to help her in her work, unlike Dusk Shine; he’s using his magic differently.

Now, if you talk about her beauty? For him, nothing can compare to Rarity’s. Dusk was attracted to her blue eyes that looked like the ocean, calm and beautiful. Her eyes were the biggest contribution to her beauty. Every time she would start talking to him, he would get lost in it, drifting on a boat in the middle of the ocean enjoying the calm breeze. He never admitted to anyone his feelings for Rarity, he might probably tell Barbara soon.

Dusk Shine was lost in the thought of Rarity, he then found himself on his bed, trying to fall asleep. He couldn’t even shut his eyes for one moment, his thoughts were running wild.

‘Rarity, Rarity, Rarity, Rarity, Rarity… UGH! I can’t stop thinking about her! I have to distract myself so I could go to bed.’ He tried to find a comfortable side of his bed, it seems like he couldn’t sleep anymore. He sat up slowly and checked the clock.

“4am? Great.” He said brushing his purple locks with his hand. He got up and checked the mirror; he was quite disgusted by how his hair looked.

“I seriously need a haircut.” He softly said to himself. “Seems like dreadlocks are out this season, I’m honestly not surprised.” He said again, picking his hair and gave himself a disappointment look. “Plus I don’t think Rarity will like my--“
He paused and placed his palm on his forehead. “Why are you doing this to yourself, Dusk Shine?” He said rubbing his face roughly and looking at himself in the mirror again.

“You want a haircut because you want to look decent, not because of the approval of Rarity.” He suddenly realized how desperate he sounds. He gave out a heavy sigh and headed downstairs to get a snack from the fridge. But before he got to the staircase, he heard a little yawn coming from the small bed next to his.

A small girl with green hair and emerald eyes sat up from her bed and started rubbing her eyes. She yawned and saw Dusk going towards her, “Good morning Barbara.” He said patting her head. She looked up at him and looked quite confused.

“Why are you up so early?” She asked, yawning again and lying back down. “You already finished your assignments.” She said. He looked at her and smiled. He tucked her back in and patted her head again.

“Sorry Barbara, I couldn’t sleep. “ He said, then he realized she drifted back to sleep. He smiled and gave a soft sigh. “Cause I couldn’t stop thinking about Rarity… again.” He frowned and went downstairs to get a little snack.

He knew he was gonna wake Barbara up, since he kept talking to himself just because he couldn’t sleep. Sometimes he wonders how he could survive Ponyville without his number one assistant.

She encouraged Dusk to make friends when they first arrived in Ponyville, she would constantly remind him not to overdo his studying and to worry less if he’s a bit disorganized or late with a report. She was always there for him, and because all of this, Barbara knew how to manage Dusk.

Barbara is different from Dusk. He is a Magician. After his minor studies in magic, he was considered an Arcane Magician and she is a messenger; she delivers letters to Princess Celestia, may it be from Dusk Shine or the others in the group. They too receive letters from Princess Celestia, all from Barbara again. But she’s a different kind of messenger.

The usual messengers were Wind Walkers. Wind Walkers are people who have wings and they make that as an occupation.

All of them reside in Cloudsdale, a beautiful town clouds away from Ponyville. Rainbow Blitz and Fluttershy were the Wind Walkers in their group but Fluttershy is a bit different from them, since she isn’t good in flying and she prefers to stay on ground.

Blitz on the other hand is the most popular among them; he is the fastest of their kind. But he’s not a messenger; he is the head officer of the weather team.

Barbara is also different because she is part human, part dragon. Her mother was fooled by a magician and drank a poisoned mixture containing cursed dragon blood when she was still pregnant with Barbara, mistaking it for pregnancy medicine.

To save the life of Barbara, Princess Celestia casted a spell on the mother’s belly, to make the blood flow in her normally and her veins were unclogged from the poison, but Barbara was born with dragon blood in her causing her to have dragon-like features. She had green eyes; she can puff out smoke and has sharp nails and teeth. Sadly, her mother died from giving birth to Barbara and her father was nowhere to be found, so Princess Celestia took her in.

As Barbara was growing up, she was accompanied by Dusk, he was a little boy when he started his lessons as a magician and Barbara and him became friends ever since. When Barbara grew up, Princess Celestia assigned her to be the assistant of Dusk when he turns eighteen years old and becomes independent in his studying.

While she is with Dusk, her task is to send letters to the princess, just like a regular messenger does. She delivers the letters from anyone by burning the letter and the ashes are drifted off to the Royal Palace in Canterlot and the Princess will receive it and read each letter the gang has sent her. If the Princess will give a letter to Dusk, Barbara would burp out the scroll coming from the Princess.

Which is very uncomfortable for Barbara, because she doesn’t want to burp out a letter in public, not to mention her regular burps are not lady like and Rarity will remind her that every time Barbara burps. Not to mention the time Princess Celestia kept sending letters to Dusk when Discord turned Ponyville into the chaos capital of Equestria. Barbara stayed in bed for days due to stomach pains, Dusk repaid her by making her meals all the time and giving her a longer break from work.

Though she was Dusk’s assistant, she treated him like a big brother. Because from the day she was born, it was Dusk who was with her. He was with Princess Celestia when she was healed by her spell. That was also the day Dusk became her apprentice.

Dusk was her first friend, if he wasn’t there, Barbara would be left alone, and she doesn’t even know who her parents were. Dusk was the only one she had and even though Dusk was kind of a pain in the behind and she couldn’t take his insecurities, she’d always be there when he needed her.

Dusk needed her too, not just for writing his letters and sending them. But Dusk needed company too, because, he never had a real friend before. Just his big brother, Shining Armor, but he had his dreams to pursue and he couldn’t be with Dusk all the time.

Dusk loves Barbara’s company too, he likes her jokes and every time Dusk had a story to tell, she would always listen to him but she ends up falling asleep. Dusk didn’t mind, he just needed someone to listen to him. But now he has a problem that he wants to confess to Barbara. That he fell for the most beautiful woman in Ponyville, Rarity.

He went to the kitchen to check the fridge for food. He only found food for breakfast and he only wanted to cook them when Barbara was up. He gave out a sigh and closed the fridge. He sat on his study table and went through the books he already read, no matter how many books he reads and how many times he had to repeat it, he doesn’t get tired of it. He can read twelve books in a day, if it’s an assignment, but he can do it just for fun.

He placed the book he was holding on the table and laid his head on it and slowly closed his eyes. He finally felt the sleepiness in his eyes; at least he could rest his mind from the tossing and turning from last night. He opened his eyes a bit and glanced at the clock.

"It’s still early.” He murmured, seeing the hands of the clock turning to 5 in the morning. He closed his eyes again and the moment he finally rested his mind, he saw Rarity.

She was lying down in front of him and staring straight in his eyes. He saw her giving him a contented smile and he smiles back. He suddenly felt a bit of panic when he felt her head slowly moving closer to his. She was already breathing on him, her lips anticipating his, but he was trembling. She placed her palm gently on his cheek, she smiled once more.

“Dusk.” She whispered quietly. He tried to respond but no voice came out. His throat went dry and it was painful every time he tried to say something.

“Dusk.” She whispered again. “Dusk Shine.” He tries to say her name but the dryness of his throat stopped him. She then started poking his forehead, making Dusk Shine confused. Suddenly her eyes turned green and her teeth turned into canines, like of a dragon and her voice became more like a child. Dusk pulled away and stood up.

“Are you okay, Dusk?” He saw Barbara looking at him with a concerned look. He gave out a big sigh and sat back down.

“Thank Celestia, it was just a dream.” He said rubbing his forehead gently.

“You had a nightmare?” She giggled and fixed the books that were on the floor. He gave an awkward chuckle and got up from his seat and fixed his hair.

“It’s not really a nightmare. I just saw someone in my dream and her face turned in to yours.” He said bluntly. She looked pissed and threw a book at him, hitting him right at the back of his head.

“Ow! Hey! What was that for?” He said rubbing his head in pain. She sticked her dragon tongue out at him and looked away.

“You should be lucky that it was a thin book and I didn’t use the dictionary.” She said going upstairs; Dusk smiled and caught up with her.

“Hey, I was joking Barb.” He chuckled and gave her an innocent pout. She just stared at him with discontent and crossed her arms. But his pout almost made her forgive him; it was more difficult for her to ignore him when he gave her his puppy eyes.

She broke into a smile and giggled a bit. “You look stupid right now, Dusk.” She said pushing his face away from hers. He laughed a bit and went to the fridge and brought out some eggs and a frozen chunk of ham.

“You hungry, Barb? ‘Cause I am.” He placed a frying pan on the stove and placed the eggs in a bowl. She went to set the table and the plates for the both of them.

“I’ll eat if you don’t burn the food again.” She teased. He gave her a sarcastic smile and gave a fake laugh.

“Ha ha ha. Very funny Barbara and that only happened once. If Rarity didn’t—“ He stopped and looked down at the bowl he was holding. Barbara stopped for a bit and looked at Dusk.

“What’s wrong?” She stood beside him and looked up at his face. He remained silent, he was thinking of her again. Barbara wouldn’t turn away; she wanted to know what was wrong with Dusk. He gave out a big sigh and looked at Barbara.

“There’s something I need to tell you, Barb.” He said calmly, looking down at her. She nodded at him and sat down at the table gesturing him to sit in front of her. He came over and sat down. He rested his arms on the table and gave her a serious look.

“You have to promise me that you won’t tell anyone. Got it?” He said. She nodded her head fast and he rubbed his neck gently, giving out another sigh. She leaned forward towards Dusk, waiting for him to tell her what he wanted to say.

“I… I think I’m love with Rarity.”

“WHAAAAAT!?” She stood on the chair and went even closer to Dusk’s face, she was in shock and it worried Dusk, thinking she didn’t approve of it.

“I’m sorry Barb, it just happened and I can’t stop thinking about her and—“

“Why are you saying sorry?”

“Well, I thought you would get upset, since she is your role model and all.”

She gave a big laugh and fell back on the chair, holding her stomach and rubbing her eyes. She smiled at him and held his hand.

“Dusk, I would never get upset.” She said and started getting restless on her seat. “Because if you like her, you have to ask her out and if you get to ask her out, you’ll make her fall for you AND if she falls for you, she’ll visit the library and I get to spend time with her!” She screamed and hugged his arm.

“Don’t you worry, Dusk! I will help you with Rarity in any cost!” She said proudly, she looked up at him. Dusk was smiling at her, he felt relieved and light since he finally got to tell someone about his feelings for Rarity. He stood up and started heating up the pan.

“But you have to promise me that you wouldn’t pair me up with her in public, okay?” He started cracking the eggs open and placing them on the hot pan. The sound of eggs sizzling made Barbara hungrier making her confused with what Dusk said.

“Hey? Are you even listening to me, Barbara?” He said turning off the stove and looking at her. She shook her head sideways and looked at him with a smile.

“What?” She smiled innocently. He placed his palm on his forehead and gave out a sigh.

“I said, I don’t want you to push me to her or her to me when there are people around. Do I make myself clear?” He said placing the cooked eggs on a small plate. “I’m just afraid that if she has any knowledge of my feelings towards her, she might reject me and it might affect our friendship.” He said giving out another deep sigh and went to get the frozen ham at the other counter.

“I don’t think she’ll make things awkward between you guys.” She said preparing the utensils and the table napkins Dusk love ever since he got them. She placed them in an orderly manner and the table napkin with the purple lines was placed on Dusk's side, indicating it was his and the one with the green stripes were on her side. She was already used to the routines of Dusk Shine, which honestly made her finding things so easily.

She then looked at Dusk, he was staring at the ham being cooked and he was quiet. She could tell that he was really troubled about being in love with Rarity and as much as she wants him to be with her, Dusk thinks that Rarity values their friendship more.

“Rarity isn’t like that, if you guys are really friends, then she won’t treat you differently if you tell her how you feel.” He placed the ham on a bigger plate and placed it on the table right in front of Barbara and got the loaf of bread near the fridge.

“I know, Barb and I want to tell her, I really do. But I hate risking things like these.” He brought the bread to the table and sat down on his chair; he opened the plastic and brought out some bread for Barbara. She placed them on her plate and went to get the orange juice from the fridge.

“You know, Dusk, you’ll realize it’s too late if you don’t tell her soon.” She said closing the fridge and walking to the table and sits down. He took a small bite from the ham and chewed slowly. She took a bite too from her bread and poured orange juice on both glasses.

“If I could find the courage to tell her, I’ll tell you and…” He paused a bit and he looked down.

“And…?” She looked at him while drinking from her glass.

“I want you to help me.” He felt a bit ashamed and took a drink from his glass too. She gave him a big smile which made him blush.

“I’ll wait for that moment.” She said taking a bite from her ham. While she was chewing he was giving her a sarcastic look.

“I knew you’ll say that. It might take longer than you think.” He grabbed a big spoon of his breakfast and ate it in one bite.

“Like I said, I’ll wait. I honestly can’t wait for it.” She gave him a big smile and he chuckled while eating his piece of bread.

“Finish your food already; we have a lot of work to do.” He said while taking a sip from his drink. He looked outside the window and saw the stores outside opening to start another day of business. Autumn was almost arriving so stores would be packed up from rushing customers since harvests weren’t bountiful during the season.

Dusk constantly reminded himself that he has work to do too; he looked at Owlowiscious who stared at the both of them intently. Dusk smiled at him and looked outside again. He saw the Carousel Boutique from a far distance; he could recognize the small flag on top of the shop.

He thought how was Rarity’s morning and if she as doing okay with her work. He wanted to pay her a visit, then again, what other reason does he have asides from seeing her? Dusk Shine was very cautious on how he’s going to act towards her. Maybe he’s over thinking about the situation or he could be afraid to lose her because of his true feelings.

This made it hard of Dusk because he has never been in love before and he feared that his lack of experience and study might ruin everything.

He looked away from the window and watched Barbara munching down her breakfast. He gave a small smile, he wanted to clear his mind for one moment and enjoy his breakfast with Barbara. He could worry about Rarity some other time.

In Ponyville, the people loved this season, autumn. The way the sun rises in the morning, releasing a perfect ray of sunlight upon the mountains, the relaxing breeze going through the town in the evening, the leaves of the trees slowly turning brown. For the youth of Ponyville, they enjoy all seasons and the reason why they love autumn was jumping in the pile of dried leaves. They would around everywhere in Ponyville and find a mountain of leaves and enjoy jumping on it and see the leaves fly everywhere. Of course, in return they clean up the mess afterwards.

Although, autumn was the end of business for Sweet Apple Acres, since all of the leaves will fall and no fruit will bear in the kind of temperature it brings. AJ didn’t like the season, he wanted to work and he wanted to earn for the family. But Big Mac will always remind him that autumn and winter were the only seasons when Granny Smith could rest. He never protested to that, but still he resented the season.

He went to get all the big empty baskets and brought them in his wagon to the orchard to get the remaining apples left. He placed two baskets in each side of one tree and started kicking the trees with his right leg. He watched all the apples falling into the baskets, double checked if there were any left. If they were none, he proceeded to the next apple tree and harvests the apples on it. He saw his big brother arriving with Caramel in the orchard bringing another wagon. He approached AJ and gave a serious look.

“Caramel lost the seeds again, did he?” AJ said with a grin and he saw Caramel lowering his head with embarrassment and Big Mac patted his head softly.

“Eeyup. We’re gonna head to town tah get another pack.” Big Mac said looking at Caramel with another serious stare. “And he’s payin’ this time.”

AJ chuckled and grabbed the wagon handle from Big Mac and patted Caramel on the back. He brought the wagon to the side and went back to the both of them and took out his bag of bits. He threw the small pouch to Caramel who accidentally dropped it.

“It’s fine, Big Mac, Ah’ll pay. Just make sure he doesn’t lose the bits too. Keep a good eye on him.” AJ gave a grin to the both of them and Caramel’s face turned bright red from what AJ said. Big Mac gave a frustrated snort at AJ and said nothing. AJ nudged his brother.

“Ah’m just kiddin’ with ya Big Mac.” He chuckled again. “But Ah’m serious, just use my extra bits fer now.”

“T-Thanks, AJ. I promise not to lose them this time.” Caramel said softly and he looked up at the tall farmer next to him. Big Mac looked down at him and blushed at his friend’s stare. He immediately grabbed Caramel’s wrist and left the orchard fast.

“Thanks AJ!” Big Mac shouted and left with his small companion. AJ rested his foot on the wagon wheel and watched the two leave to town and saw Caramel hugging Big Mac’s arm. AJ was happy that Big Mac and Caramel are together, in love and happy. He knew Caramel has been crushing on his big brother ever since he applied for a job in Sweet Apple Acres. He noticed the times when Caramel would stare at Big Mac carrying the bushels of hay and forget his chores and he would rather be by his side than AJ’s.

AJ was very open-minded about Caramel’s situation, he had a talk with Caramel about it and to his surprise he found out that Big Mac liked him too. AJ didn’t want to protest about it because he wanted his family to be happy, since that’s what him happy. Ever since the start of summer, AJ has been covering Big Mac from Granny Smith’s curious questions about the two of them, luckily, AJ was there to cover up.

“Seems like Big Mac has a little fooler.” A husky voice came from above, AJ jerked to the direction where the voice was from. He saw his friend hovering above him, giving a smirk.

“And what brings ya here, Rainbow Blitz? Aren’t ya supposed to be on weather duty?” AJ said with a smile, the wind walker lowered himself to the ground next to his farmer friend. His wings tucked at his back comfortably and brushed his rainbow colored hair with his hand.

“I got bored so I came here to see what you’re up to.” He said looking around the orchard. AJ then grabbed a big basket and handed it to Blitz.

“Well, ya can help me get some apples off them trees before Sunday so they won’t rot.” He said cheerfully and went to the next tree to harvest. Blitz shrugged and had no other choice but to help AJ out. Since he was a loyal friend and that AJ did a lot of stuff for Blitz.

“Alright, alright. But I’m only helping ‘cause I’m bored.” said Blitz, he approached the tree filled with ripe apples and put the basket into place. He stepped back a bit and kicked the tree trunk as hard as he could. Seconds later only a few apples fell into the basket, Blitz looked up confused. “What? Lemme try again.” He backed up some more and ran towards the tree and his wings lifted him up giving him more force as he tackled the tree.

The impact made the remaining apples fall and some squirrels fleeing from the area. He gave a smile and wiped his nose with his thumb. “HA! I can do this!” He said proudly.

AJ looked at the tree and saw a foot mark imprinted on the trunk. “Ya can do this alright, but next time, use less force. Ya don’t want to send this tree flyin’ to Cloudsdale.” He teased. Blitz gave a chuckle and patted AJ on the back.

“It’ll be fine, AJ. I can control my strength so you don’t have to worry about your trees.” He grabbed the filled basket and flew over the wagon and positioned it safely with the other baskets. He leaned on the wagon and wiped the sweat off his forehead.

“Man! That’s a lot of hard work!” Blitz said getting another empty basket.

"Hard work? Ya just did one tree." He chuckled at Blitz and lifted a heavier basket on his shoulders, his face filled with sweat and a bit of dirt. “This is only the beginning. Plus Ah have tah make a last delivery before autumn kicks in.” He said slowly lowering the basket on the cart.

“To Fluttershy?” Blitz gave him a sly grin and raised his eyebrow. AJ looked away angrily, grabbed another basket fast and went off to the orchard to continue. He stopped a bit and looked back at his friend.

“How is she?” He asked softly.

“She’s fine, lonely as usual with her animals.” Blitz said walking to AJ and standing beside him. “Do you still plan to keep your mouth shut or are you gonna ask her out or something?”

“Ah thought ya said she doesn’t like nobody?” He said going to another tree, “And Ah know she don’t want me.” He kicked it forcefully now and it made the roots of the tree come out. AJ panicked and he tried to dig the roots back on the ground and picked up the apples that rolled away. Blitz gave a sigh and went to help AJ pick up the ones far from him.

“Chill AJ, I thought you said to use less force?” He gave a chuckle and placed the apples in the basket. He saw AJ standing and staring into the distance, Blitz gave out a deep breath and approached his friend.

“I know it hurts that she rejected you. But look at the bright side, AJ. She still treats you like a close friend. So you don’t have to feel bad about yourself.” He looked at AJ. “Just ask her out as friends.”

AJ took off his hat and held it in his side, enjoying the cold breeze through his blonde hair. He looked at Blitz with sad eyes but with a smile.

I just wanted to tell her the truth.” He said softly and his mouth went back into a frown. “And Ah wanna move on. But Ah cant, s’too difficult fer me.” He then paused for a moment to think then he chuckled to himself and looked at Blitz again. “You know that Ah tried to get me a girl to date and all. Yeah, it helped.”

“But?” Blitz looked at him.

“When I see her, all them feelings I had for Fluttershy are comin’ back to me and I like her again.”

Blitz stayed quiet, keeping his hands in pocket, stretching his wings a bit and one wing slapping AJ on the back.

“C’mon, AJ! You’re still young, so you can find someone else than Flutters. I mean, sometimes I feel like she’ll be single till she dies.” Blitz said trying to cheer AJ up. AJ smiled and gently punched Blitz on the shoulder and chuckled.

“Thanks, Blitz. Means a lot to me. But Ah still gotta deliver them apples to her.” He wore his hat again and carried the remaining baskets. He looked around the orchard; there were only a few apple trees left. Blitz got the rest of the baskets and his wings spread out, dashed at the remaining trees and quickly positioned the baskets on each side of the trees.

AJ dropped his basket in shock; he scratched the back of his head and gave a chuckle. Rainbow Blitz flew back at AJ and gave a confident grin.

“I am still faster than you, AJ. No doubt about that,” He dropped gently on the ground and leaned on the tree next to him. AJ returned the smile and he approached Blitz and gave the tree a gentle kick. An apple suddenly fell and it landed on Blitz’ head, “Ow! What was that for?” He shouted at AJ rubbing his head in pain.

“Not in this farm.” AJ said with a grin.

“Oh yeah?” Blitz’ wings spread out again giving his competitive face to AJ. “Fastest one to finish bucking has to buy lunch, deal?”

“Heh, get yer wallet ready then, Blitz.” He said pulling his hat down to make it secure on his head. The two clenched their feet in the grass, looking at each target and leaning forward. Suddenly Winona came running to them and the moment she barked, the two friends dashed towards the apple trees making all the apples fall into the basket as fast as they can. Nothing can turn them down from a good challenge, especially if it includes food, neither Blitz nor AJ can refuse.

Winona kept barking while they kick each tree trunk and going to the next with agility and speed. AJ felt relieved that he was keeping his mind off the timid Wind Walker and get his job done. He felt pretty lucky that Blitz finally helped him with his work; he could take the afternoon off and relax with Apple Bloom and Winona. Though he still couldn’t forget that day he told Fluttershy how he feels for her.
~~

Fluttershy was sitting by the bench at the park that morning; she was with Angel as usual. AJ asked her to meet him there because he had something important to tell her. All the while she thought Winona was injured or sick again, but she doesn’t know what he really wanted to say.

AJ finally arrived and he approached her. “Howdy, Fluttershy. Did I kept ya waitin’ for too long?”

“Oh no, it’s fine AJ. Angel kept me company and some new friends.” She smiled at the bird sitting on a nearby tree. “Oh dear, forgive me for my rudeness.” She said moving to the side of the bench and she patted on the empty space. “Please take a seat, AJ. You must be exhausted from work today.”

“Why, thank you Fluttershy.” He sat gently next to her and he smiled. He was trying to not look nervous in front of her. He tried not to make his polo wet from sweat, though he brought a handkerchief just in case. It was his first time confessing to a woman before. He was more devoted to work than anything else, but this time he found a reason to take a break from it.

She turned to AJ to face him but she realized she was too close to him. She immediately turned away and hid her face in her long wavy hair. Her face went back to AJ but in a more shy approach.

“What did you want to talk about?” She asked softly. He was worried that he scared her and he patted her back a bit.

“Are you okay? Ah didn’t mean to make this look serious and all. I actually just wanted to tell ya somethin’.” His eyes suddenly became lost and he tried to find other words to say.

“Is something wrong, AJ?” She looked even more concerned, making AJ even more uneasy. He then took of his hat and faced her slowly, hoping not to startle her again.

He cleared his throat and looked at her; she was staring at him in a confused way. “Fluttershy, ya know that Ah’m the most honest person here in Ponyville and you know that Ah can’t keep much inside me, right?”

“Uhm, yes.” She said. “W-What is it?”

“Ah think Ah like ya.” He immediately said. His face was filled with fear and concerned for her. He didn’t want to lose her but he also wanted to tell her that he liked her for that long.

Her face was filled with shock and it made her speechless. Nothing came out of her mouth, but she was moving it like she wanted to say something. But her shyness came over her, she stood up from the bench and she ran away with Angel in her arms.

~~

Ever since that day, Fluttershy didn’t show herself to AJ and she said nothing to him. But it was really her who asked for the weekly supply of apples for Angel. She just asked him through a letter, since she was still ashamed to face AJ. Every Monday she would place a note outside her door for AJ, telling him to place her apples on the door mat and a simple thank you.

For AJ, it was a relief, that she didn’t decide to ignore him but she couldn’t see him nor talk in person. He just wanted to stay friends, he didn’t care anymore if she didn’t accept his affection, and he wanted to save their friendship.

But he would always feel bad when she avoided him when they do see in public or when he tries to say hi to her. She would just look away when he waves hello to her. But she tells either Blitz or Pinkie to tell him she says hi. For him, it was something; at least they were still friends.

Despite of everything that has happened between them, he still loved her. He cared for Fluttershy and nothing can possibly discourage him from liking her, he just promises not to tell her like that again.

“My goodness, Sweetie Belle, just place the scissors on the desk and stay put!” Rarity demanded, circling her work room from mannequin to mannequin. Her little sister wanted to help but Rarity feared she would mess up again.

“But I just want to help! You’ve been doing this to me ever since I was nine, Rarity!” She protested. “I’m already thirteen. I’m not as clumsy as before.” She crossed her arms and sat at the corner of the room.

Rarity stopped and placed her pencil down; she looked at her little sister and gave a depressing sigh. “I’m sorry, darling. I’m just so caught up; I can’t even think of anything that you could do to help me with.” She said lowering her shoulders and looking down at her work bench.

Sweetie Belle stood up and gave Rarity a small hug. “It’s okay, Rarity. I understand. But that’s why I wanna help, so someone can give you a hand and your work will be easier!” She said optimistically. Rarity smiled and hugged her back.

“Why do I have to neglect such a loving sister like you?” She then had an idea; she grabbed Sweetie Belle by the arms and gave her an exciting smile. “I know, why don’t you get me a cup of coffee and when you come back, you could practice your singing!”

“W-what?” Sweetie Belle looked confused, Rarity giggled a bit and pushed her out the door.

“Get me my coffee and I’ll explain when you come back!” She said cheerfully. Sweetie Belle just shrugged, she followed her sister’s order and went to the kitchen.

Rarity gave a smile while her sister was leaving and went back on her design. “I can’t believe I have to make a wedding gown on the last minute.” She said drawing some lines on the picture of the wedding gown. She pondered at the additional design, she then stood up and placed the picture on the wall and went to get more fabric.

“I had to accept it. The money would be enough for the big dinner mother and father are expecting this winter.” She then grabbed her shears and started cutting the fabric in straight lines. She then glanced at the picture and she saw a photograph nearby, it was the picture of the six of them. She placed the fabric down and went to see the photograph again.

“I remember this; it was when I made those silly outfits for them.” She said to herself. She smiled while looking at her friends. She laughed when she looked at Rainbow Blitz trying to look cool in his ridiculous outfit and Fluttershy having a nest on her head. She looked away and frowned. She misses her friends and she hasn’t spent time with them that much since she got busy with work.

Rarity’s business went successful after her mini fashion show with Hoity Toity. Every town and city in Equestria came to see her unique designs on clothing; she even took a shot in designing bags and shoes. Since she is a well-known fashion designer, celebrities would ask her to make different clothes for them. She worries a lot that she hasn’t spent any time with the group, but everyone assured her that they understand and they supported her all the way.

Her work has always been a benefit to the family, but it wasn’t an easy job. She got some people to help her from time to time in sewing the clothes on but they didn’t permanently stay. Luckily she got to ask her friends to help out too, in delivery, sewing, washing the clothes, or anything she needed help with.

She looked at the picture again; her eyes were caught by the purple haired friend of hers. She sighed and started remembering the times were Dusk was so oblivious to romance. Her feelings for Dusk have been growing ever since he let her stay the night in the library when a storm came in seasons ago. He made her feel like a princess and he prioritized her needs. He even talked to her a lot, and they shared a lot of stories together.

She considers this as a little crush, but the more she spends time with him, the more that her feelings grow. For some reason, she wants to visit him, but then, what is her reason for visiting?

“Okay, I have your coffee and I didn’t burn it.” Sweetie Belle barged in the room while levitating the ceramic mug in the air. The mug was surrounded by a thick green cloud coming from Sweetie Belle’s magic. It landed gently on Rarity’s work table; Rarity then took the mug and sniffed it.

“You can burn coffee?” She looked at Sweetie Belle confused and took a sip from her coffee. She looked surprised and drank some more. “Wow, Sweetie Belle, this taste really good. You are getting better.” Rarity said, putting her mug down and went back to cutting fabric.

“Thanks, sis.” She scratched the back of her neck and felt relieved about her sister’s comment.

“It needs more cream though.” Rarity smiled at her and stood up to get the cream downstairs.

Sweetie Belle went to the door first and stopped Rarity. “Wait, why do you want me to sing? How did you know I sing?”

“Miss Cheerilee told me in the Parents Consultation days ago. I was so thrilled to hear that my baby sister is excelling in a field of art.” She looked at Sweetie Belle and smiled. “I’m excited to hear you sing.” She said in a calm voice.

“But I’m not that good.” Her sister replied, looking away then Rarity pulled her chin up and gave her a serious yet concerned look.

“I don’t care, sweetheart. It doesn’t matter to me if you can’t sing like the artists I know, your talent is what I want to hear the most. If it’s not good then you have time to improve and I can help with you in that.” She said. Sweetie Belle looked down to wipe her eyes and started sniffing. She suddenly gave Rarity a big hug and tried to hide her tears.

“Thank you, Rarity. You are the best sister in the world.” She said wiping her eyes again. Rarity then floated a napkin over them and wiped her eyes. She gave her a kiss on the forehead and hugged her again.

She brought Sweetie Belle near her work table and let her stand there. “Now, you sing whatever you would like to sing. I’ll continue my work and listen to you at the same time.” She then sat on her chair and looked at Sweetie Belle with a motivational look.

“But…”

“No buts. I want you to practice your talent.” Rarity interrupted.

Sweetie Belle took a deep breath and started singing a popular ballad song from Sapphire Shores. She softly started the words and the rest of her voice vibrated smoothly through the work room. Rarity worked in the same pace as the song, slow and mellow. She smiled at every time Sweetie Belle hits the high notes of each line, luckily she memorized the song. Rarity started singing along with her sister while she was moving to a different assignment in her project.

Both their voices reverberated throughout the room and Opal finally came out of her small house to listen to her owners sing. It’s been a while since the small white cat heard music in the work room. Because usually it would be the noises of Rarity’s sewing machines and her customers. Opal likes it this way, no noise, but the sound of pleasant voices singing throughout the house.

“Pinkie please don’t forget about the cake I just placed in the oven. It has to be taken out after fifty minutes.” Mrs. Cake said rushing in and out of the kitchen holding her twins. She goes through their bag once more to check if they have what they need.

“Of course I’ll remember Mrs. Cup Cake! You can count on me!” Pinkie answered. She looked and glancing at the cake.

“Ready to go, honeybun?” Mr. Carrot Cake came in with a big bag on his back; he was trying to catch his breath from all the running. He took a deep breath and looked at his wife and gave her a crooked smile. She then pulled out a stroller fit for two babies and placed Pound and Pumpkin inside. The twins sat up and gave a wave goodbye to their big sister and Pinkie gave a wave back.

“Bye bye kids! Be good at the doctors!” She shouted while the family was heading out the store. She smiled and went back on the cake. She carefully watched the timer; she listened to the ticking and watched if the hand will turn to the number ten, indicating fifty minutes are up. Sadly, Mrs. Cup Cake just placed the cake inside.

“Boooooooring!” She threw her head back and jumped up from her spot. “Maybe I could clean this place up! I’m pretty sure Mr. and Mrs. Cupcake would appreciate that.” She happily said. She then dressed herself quickly to a cleaning outfit and grabbed a mop and a bucket; she placed them on the floor and examined the kitchen. “Let’s do this!”

She starting cleaning of the table and the kitchen table, wiping all the flour and other cooking ingredients they used to make their confectionaries. She cleaned every part of the stove and placed all the ingredients to their respective cupboards. Pinkie is a person who loves to play and party, but she knew when it was time for work.

She got used to cleaning up the mess in Sugar Cube Corner ever since Pumpkin and Pound were born and she had to babysit them. She memorized the kitchen and where the utensils and ingredients were supposed to be, cleaning the kitchen was her favorite, because even if she gets to clean up the mess, she still has the chance to capture the smell of each pastry and cake that were baked.

Many minutes has passed already, Pinkie grabbed a rug and wiped all the icing stains from the table and the counter tops. When she was going to start washing the piles of dishes, she heard a soft knock on the door.

“Coming!” Pinkie rushed to answer the door but she tripped on one of the twins’ toys and fell on her face. She tried to lift herself up and saw Fluttershy peeking through the door.

“Oh my, are you okay Pinkie?” She asked giving Pinkie a concerned look. Pinkie jumped up and opened the door for her friend.

“Fluttershy! So nice to see you!” She said hugging her friend tightly. Fluttershy couldn’t handle her friend’s tight embrace and tried to hug her back. Pinkie suddenly let go and invited her friend inside Sugar Cube Corner. “So, what can I get you? A cupcake? A muffin? Tarts? Gummy!?” She brought out her baby alligator and brought him close to Fluttershy’s face. Fluttershy gave a small stroke on Gummy and giggled a bit.

“Actually, I was hoping if we could spend the afternoon together.” She said shyly looking down on the ground. “I mean, if it’s okay.” She tucked her long pink locks behind her ear.

“That’ll be great! I was actually doing some chores for Mr. and Mrs. Cake while they’re gone to the doctor.” She said putting Gummy down on the floor. She sprung up to her friend and looked at her excitingly.

Fluttershy nodded slightly and smiled. “I don’t mind, I just wanted to pass the time since the clinic is closed today.”

“I see, I guess you want to take a break since you’re clinic is open every day of the week.” Pinkie said leading Fluttershy to the kitchen. She checked the timer and got her oven mitts ready.

“Well, yes. I haven’t had any patients lately.” She pulled her glasses close to her face and looked at Pinkie watching the oven intently. “Are you baking a cake?”

“Mrs. Cup Cake told me to get the cake she baked right after the timer goes off and it’s almost done!” She said jumping a bit and her eyes were locked on the cake.

‘DING’

“It’s done!” She shouted. She opened the oven and carefully brought out a large foam cake cooked to a tender golden brown. The aroma of the simple cake filled the room; Pinkie brought it to the counter and enjoyed the smell of the newly baked cake. Fluttershy quietly approached the cake and gazed into its beauty.

“I never knew a simple cake like this would look so tasty.” She giggled and smelled the scent of the cake again. Pinkie gave a big smile and skipped to the oven to close it.

“Mrs. Cup Cake always makes the best foam cakes! I can’t wait ‘till she places the frosting!” Pinkie said energetically. She removed her oven mitts and covered the cake so the heat will be preserved.

Pinkie cleaned up the remaining mess in the kitchen and grabbed two glasses of water. “Here you go Flutters, you must be thirsty.” She happily said handing over the glass of water to her friend.

Fluttershy gently held the glass and smiled. “Thank you, Pinkie.” She gently took a sip from the glass. She looked out the window, enjoying the view of Ponyville in the afternoon. She suddenly saw two familiar figures from a distance; it was Blitz and AJ passing by on a wagon filled with apples. She suddenly turned away and blushed heavily. Pinkie immediately finished her glass and looked outside.

“What’s wrong? Who did you see?” She then peeked out the window and saw their two friends already far from the window. She turned away also and her cheeks turned red after recognizing Blitz’ head.

“I bet you saw him didn’t you?” Fluttershy teased and poked Pinkie on the shoulder. Pinkie blushed even more and gave out a sigh. Her straight face suddenly turned into a smile and she started to giggle.

“He’s so handsome.” She giggled again; she likes it when she sees Blitz. She gets silly and very happy. She’s liked Blitz for a while now; she liked his friendly attitude and his handsome face. They’ve been very good friends ever since they were kids. She noticed Fluttershy looking away from the window, she stayed quiet and Pinkie gently placed her hand on her friend’s shoulder. “You should talk to him, you know.”

“I-I know.” She quietly said and she faced Pinkie. “I don’t want to do this to him anymore. I mean, I don’t exactly have the same feelings but I don’t want this to happen since we’re still friends.” She started to mumble and she looked down.

She doesn’t like it when she talks too much, especially if she thinks the situation is her fault or when she’s afraid. Fluttershy doesn’t want to let go of her friendship with AJ, she treasured every single bit of it, but she never felt any spark between the both of them.

“Maybe you should stop giving him notes and finally face him and talk.” Pinkie said giving her a big smile. Fluttershy hesitated for a bit, and then she clenched her fists and gave a confident look.

“Okay! I’ll talk to AJ.” She smiled at Pinkie but it died down and she started playing with her fingers. “Not now, though.”

“But you should! You can’t keep him waiting, Flutters. He maybe a patient guy but it’s been months already.” Pinkie said with a concerned voice. “Isn’t he supposed to deliver Angel’s apples today? Autumn is already here.”

“Well, yes—“ She suddenly paused and she felt a bit confused. She went to the calendar and read it. “It’s still Saturday, Pinkie.” She said with a smile. Autumn was on Monday next week. Pinkie dashed to the calendar and read the it too. She threw her palm on her head and the two friends giggled.

“But you have to personally receive the apples from him, got it!?” She said feeling excited to know that Fluttershy is finally going to talk to AJ. Pinkie gently pulled her face up and gave her a confident smile. “I know you can be brave enough to conquer your shyness and you don’t have to be shy towards AJ.” She said calmly.

Fluttershy felt a tear come out and she hugged her tight. Pinkie was surprised that the hug was tighter than usual; she then smiled and stroked Fluttershy’s hair gently.

“T-Thank you, Pinkie.” She said in a soft voice. She looked up and smiled at her friend, she felt grateful to have Pinkie be here to help. Rarity usually gave her advice with public speaking or at times with love and Pinkie helped her with confidence.

Fluttershy didn’t know what she would do without the both of them or if one was gone. They were her best friends, asides from Rainbow Blitz, Rarity and Pinkie had the time to listen to her problems and help out. Fluttershy is just relieved that at least someone has her back.

Author's Note

Chapter 2 is almost done :3 Thanks for reading. :D