Chapters I stretched my wings my body waking up slowly until i felt ready to open my eyes. I yawned before recalling last night, a giddy smile growing on my face. Last night went so well, it was strange, I’d never really had a date like that ever. Though I know I'm a tomcolt, I felt ... feminine, and I still don't know how that happened, but it doesn't mean I'll go to a spa ever again, those places still make me cringe, and every time Rarity mentions it I feel myself freeze up.
Hopping from my beds cloudy sheets, I looked out of the window, seeing how vivid my rainbow waterfalls' colours had become, I stared at them for a while taking in the moment to appreciate how they looked. I turned my head to see the sun, just like most days I never get up early and today was no different, though I had slept longer than usual. Since I knew that I couldn't go back to sleep, or have a quick nap I checked over my weather schedule memorizing where clouds needed to go and to see that no rain was needed.
Flapping my wings I took off to warm up before I was able to set the weather in motion, a few clouds here, and none over there each cloud then slowly began to drift in the direction of the breeze. Where I flew, all across Ponyville ponies were going about their normal daily jobs, but I couldn’t see AJ’s apple cart yet, maybe she was taking a day off? Before long I was looping around in the open skies enjoying the wind flowing through my mane. I came to a halt needing to give myself a short break and found I was now over the library, I lowered to peek through the window, I smiled hoping to tell Twi all about my date.
"Hey Twilight, you home?" I looked through the window to see her buried in a book, no surprise there. I tapped at the window with my hoof, seeing her jump with surprise a little but she soon relaxed when she realized it was only me. She smiled and waved her hoof letting me know I could fly in.
"Good Morning, Rainbow Dash." She closed her book and stood, giving her wings a gentle shake before folding them against herself. Her eyes looked tired as though she hadn't slept the night before, I frowned at her. My eyes pressed her for information .
"You look tired, has Flash not been home?" She shook her head, but smiled. Yawning slightly before she answered, she sat down her shoulders slightly clicking.
"No, I've been reading into a few things, I kept myself up again ... he'd make me sleep if he was home even if I was stuck in a book. He tries his best but I am who I am. Shining is still making it hard for him at the guard, still being too protective of me, stallions will be stallions right? Anyway... your date was last night right?"
She smiled brightly as she remembered and I felt the blush rise to my cheeks as I remembered it all myself, clearing my throat I just nodded. I didn't even know where to start and tell her.
"It went ... well." Was all I could get out in my state. Her eyes bore into mine, she didn't speak or beg for an elaboration, she knew she didn't have to do that so I heaved a sigh and split every little detail to her, feeling myself getting more into it as I went on.
~Flashback~
I sat waiting on a cloud, the sun just beginning to set when the sick feeling hit my stomach, and it was strange. Nerves. I'm so nervous it's not like me, i’d be nervous before getting into the wonderbolts not for a date! I shuffled my hooves on the cloud taking a few breath in an attempt to calm myself before slowly flying to the ground. Taking another deep breath I opened my eyes and saw him ... why did I take a breath in the first place? Right now it felt like I couldn't breathe, this isn’t all all like any of the others dates I’d been on? It was much easier to crush on him from a distance than being this close. I gulped and watched him, his strong stride and red fur slightly glowing in the last light of the sun. He looked amazing, and the glint in those emerald green eyes took all the breath from my body once more, come on brain, my lungs need to work properly!. His smile was reassuring, though deep in the pit of my stomach I was still so nervous, and I knew it wasn’t going to fade anytime soon.
"Good evening, Rainbow Dash." I was able to breathe again, though I think the bright blush on my cheeks gave him the answer he was hoping for. I stood unsure of what to do but the annoyance of using my full name make me correct him without though.
"Um ... you can just call me Dash." He gave a small nod before showing me the way. I looked at everything besides him. The views are so different at that time when you're not laying on a cloud. It didn't seem like long before he'd stopped, and from my lack of concentration I bumped into him, and yet another blush blazed on my cheek, I avoided his eyes as I saw we were by a lake. I couldn’t help but arate at how beautiful it was, the moonlight came from above hitting the water and casting a white glow around us, clear open sky revealed the stars twinkling above us, it was breathtaking. I gazed around wondering how I’d never noticed this place after my countless time flying past here, I frowned at myself I would never forget something so pretty.
"Wow." was all I managed to say, and even then it was barely a whisper. The scene was so beautiful, and I blushed again as the word romantic popped into my head, damn it don’t get ahead of yourself Dash! He chuckled, I guess he find me blushing amusing but began to walk toward a rather large tree away from the waters edge. I now noticed the picnic blanket and basket. He sat down opening a little basket revealing its contents.
"I ... um ... AppleJack helped me" I smiles and nodded, I thought it was sweet and kinda reassuring that he'd gone and asked for some help. I walked slowly toward the basket, and got a better look at what was in there. I grinned seeing the food that was in there where most of my favorites, AJ was helping him spoil me. I beamed fighting the urge to drool. Food is awesome. Especially the kind from Sweet Apple Acres. He gave me an apple, and our hooves briefly touched, I swear it felt like a shock raced through me and back. I glanced at him wondering if he felt it, and I’m sure that he did too. I jumped away slightly, not wanting to embarrass myself and more than I have. The sensation left my body as quickly as it came so I drew my attention back to eating and took a bite from the apple to try and stop myself from saying anything that would make me look stupid, though I guess that he wouldn’t be saying much anyway, unless he felt talkative.
"You felt that, didn't you?" I looked up at him shock as he said it, I guess It wasn’t just me after all. I recovered quickly but gave a slow nod before shrugging in an attempt to lighten the mood. After all, he initiated the date so I guess he must like me, unless this was a stupid bet from another stallion. I never want to be a test for any stallions stupid ego’s.
"I don't know ... it was weird but, I guess I uh liked it." I ducked my head embarrassed trying my hardest to fight yet another blush, what is it with me and these emotions tonight? I feel like a stupid filly on her first date. When I looked up I saw how his eyes sparkled, even the gems Rarity kept in her show were nothing compared to beauty in his eyes. They were deep jade pools I could just lose myself in over and over, I forced myself to blink and look away.
"What? Something on my face" He asked, I shook my head, blushing again, the blushing was getting really annoying, why does it even happen so much?
"No, I was, um, I was ... youreyesarelikereallypretty" Well I guess blurting and word vomit must be a new thing for me. He smiled at me turning away slightly, before taking a bite from his apple I heard him murmur, "So are yours".
I rolled my eyes at him, I was already blushing so it made no difference other than the fact I could see just how red I was getting.
"Want to swim?" I looked up from my last apple at the sudden sound of his voice. I took a glance at the water and shrugged shaking my wings slightly.
"I don't know, um is it cold?" This time he rolled his eyes at me, and leisurely walked to the waters edge, dipping his hoof gently into the water and swishing it around.
"Enope" And just like that we were back to one word Mac. I walked slowly toward him then dipped my hoof into the water. Once my all hooves were wet, I flew over the water slowly dragging my hooves on the water edge and then up into the sky. Turning mid flight I zoomed down, stopping just before the surface causing the rush of air to hit the water, I watched the impact as it ripped out in every direction . I fluttered into the water, letting it reach mid-leg before I finally saw a very wet stallion looking at me. I burst into hysterics at the sight; his red fur drenched and his mane stuck to his forehead slightly covering his emerald eyes which glared at me unamused.
"Not a fan of water, then?" I managed to say between my giggles while brushing some of my mane with my wing.
"ENope." My smile dropped. One word answers again. His eyes were still glaring but his face was emotionless. I felt a little guilty but he was in the water anyway so I just glared back at him unimpressed, water means getting wet.
"It was your idea, you know. I was perfectly fine over there." I pointed back at the picnic. He flicked his mane back causing me to gulp as I caught sight of the fresh droplets making their way down his fur with other spraying around him.
"I don't like getting too wet ... but I think I can deal with it for a little longer."
I humphed then trotted past him my wings keeping me slightly off the ground. However, just as I reached the grass I felt a wave of water cover me. I jumped right round and stared at him, a genuine smile on his face. The battle was so on. I stomped into the water, while flapping my wings, sending it straight towards him.
Soon we were both soaked through and shivering as the night's cold winds reached us. I sat under the tree, teeth chattering, as he packed up what was left of the picnic I looked up at the moon. It seemed much brighter, like Luna was in a happy mood and this was her way of showing it. I yawned and lay back on the grass, trying to get a little warmer my wings outstretched to dry off. I closed my eyes thinking of warm things. I started to feel a little warmer and then I saw Mac laid down next to me, the blanket in his mouth. The warmth from his body felt good so I slowly shuffled closer, until my face was resting against his neck and the blanket lay over my back. I looked up to see a small smile on his face, but his eyes remained closed. I’m sure we spend forever just laying there until he spoke.
"I think we better go now, Dash" I nodded against him and stood giving my wings a small shake, I was already warmer and dryer anyway.
"I had a really nice time tonight. Thanks Mac." He smiled, and picked up the basket and putting the blanket on top as we walked towards his farm.
“I had a nice time too, Dash." He told me as his house was in view. I twisted my hoof into the ground as I realized how close to Sweet Apple Acres we'd become stopping to sigh. I looked up at him to ready say goodbye as he slowly bent down and kissed me. I blinked, stunned feeling the deep red blush on my face before smiling at him. He rubbed his nose against mine before turning away.
“Goodnight Dash.” He said as he walked away my breath stayed caught in my throat until he became a small figure in his doorway. I took a breath as I realized ... my first real kiss.
~End of flashback~
"So ... yeah, it went well... as well as hoped. Better than I hoped." I finished my story pathetically, trailing off as I looked at the smile on her face. I felt my own building.
"So, does this mean you're officially a couple now?" I blinked and flew up, I hadn’t even thought about that. Twi rolled her eyes seeing how clueless at this I was.
"I better go and see, uh, thanks Twi!"Rushed from her window, heading straight to Sweet Apple Acres with one thing on my mine, and I was determined to get my answer.
The flight to Sweet Apple Acres was exhilarating, every second made me feel better as the cool air washed over me. Speed was good; I am speed around here and everybody knows it. As soon as my destination was in sight, I descended to the ground, my head looking around for helpful ponies. I started to look around and heard Winona barking. I floated up out of her reach as she jumped up at me, her tail wagging wildly.
"You know where Mac is?" She stood still for a moment before barking again and running off. I followed her with ease as she ran around all the trees soon she stopped and barked.
"There you are Winona, where in tarnation have you been?"
I sighed; the dog had taken me straight to AppleJack
"Ah, Rainbow Dash. You’re the reason she wasn't here?"
"No, she found me. I asked for your brother but she brought me to you instead."
She laughed at me before pointing behind her.
"Nope; two birds, one stone. Hey Winona, come on girl. Oh and Rainbow, whatever you did ... it made him happy, he even started work early this morning."
I shrugged "I don't know what I did, but you all work early to me" She trotted off, glancing back at me once before her and Winona moved out of sight. I took a breath before flying up into a tree above Mac and looking down at him. I bounced a little making a few leaves fall onto him. He looked up, and smiled when he saw me.
"Well, good afternoon, Rainbow Dash." I grinned down at him.
"You know you have a few leaves on you, right?" He gave me a playful glare before shaking them off, leaving one in his mane.
______________________
"Ooooh I love this part, it’s my favourite in the whole story." Pinkie’s squee rang through the room.
"Pinkie, let Rainbow finish. She's not telling it for you, remember?" Twilight said, as she shot a look toward Pinkie.
"It's fine Twi. Now, where was I ..." I tried to think.
"You were telling us that Mac had a leaf in his mane, darling. Now come on, some of us haven't heard this story before." Rarity looked at Fluttershy who smiled.
"Well, I was busy when she first told it. It’s ok, carry on Rainbow" All eyes turned to me as I carried on, still aware that one pony in the room was staying silent.
______________________
I flew down to pick the leaf from his mane and saw him blush, even though it was hard to see against his red pelt.
"That's better." I landed next to him and looked at the pile of apples under his tree.
"Wow, you guys have so many apples. I've never really paid attention when I fly over."
"Well, we need more to sell more, to plant more. An apple cycle." I laughed, it did sound funny.
"Well OK then, I better let you get back to work before Apple Jack kills you ... oh and Mac" He smiled at me, expecting me to carry on. "Um ... what are we?" He stood for a moment puzzled then gave the one word I needed to hear.
"Dating."
"Now Dash, we must must make sure you are all set for this date ... hm, ooh girls how about a sleepover and we all help?"
I groaned: they had all been talking about this for the past hour, nagging me with questions and getting the occasional glare from Apple Jack. I sighed: the only way out was to fly away, but then they'd probably all just attack me with more questions.
"Guys ... Guys ... GUYS!" They all turned to face my annoyed look.
"Rainbow, we’re just trying to help. Right, girls?" Twilight smiled at me, and the others gave small nods: other than Pinkie who decided to bounce around. I sighed and shook my head.
"Fine. But after this you leave us alone."
I could see hesitation on a few faces, but they all nodded.
"Good."
I flew off, glad to escape all their chatter. Only two ponies could follow me ... with pinkie being a bonus. I decided to fly over Ponyville, and then toward sweet apple acres to practice, taking my mind off all the girly things Rarity insisted I do. I shuddered: going to the spa was something I'd never do. Pushing that thought deep down I started twirling around, until all the bad memories became nothing but thoughts of flight. Soon my wings felt heavy: sighing I headed home. Waiting for me was Tank: he was getting very old now and even FlutterShy was worried. I rubbed my hoof over his shell.
"Come on, you should be resting."
He followed me slowly to his bed, before I got him some food. I let out a breath as he ate: I can only feel helpless because he's getting so old. I know one day he won't be there when I wake, or sleep. I looked through my window: seeing the moon slowly rising into the sky and with a last glance at Tank happily settling down to sleep, I sat on the windows edge. Looking out at the view, seeing the red and orange colours melting into the light blue, I felt my eyes widen. How hadn't I realized this before? I watched them closer as they both faded into the colour of the night. My gaze drifted to where he'd be right now, probably just finishing his work. I flapped my wings quickly before heading to bed, a smile on my face; we were just like an evening sky. I needed a long sleep: days like this take all the energy out of me.
Knock, knock.
I awoke to the sound of hooves against my door. I blinked my eyes to see the sun had just come up: who had the nerve to wake me right now? I stumbled toward my door, my eyes glaring at it as I began to open it.
"Oh, hello. Good morning, Dash."
I groaned.
"FlutterShy, it's so early."
She shuffled on her hooves.
"Oh, yes, I know, but Pinkie said the sleepover is, um, starting now."
"The sun just came up and she wants a sleepover? No. I'm going back to bed; I'll join when it's the right time to join."
"RAINBOWDASHTHEPARTYINGISSTARTINGNOW!"
I turned on the spot to see Pinkie in her balloon waving her hooves around, the others also unable to fly sat with small, forced smiles on their faces.
"No, I want to sleep. I'll go later. Please, I just need to sleep." I said before yawning.
"Oh um, sorry Dash. I-I'm sure Twilight will um, let you sleep at her place ... right?"
I blinked to see the purple fur come into view.
"That I can do: come on, Dash. My bed is as comfortable as a cloud, since both Flash and I have wings."
I looked at all the faces: seeing an expectant AppleJack I nodded, wiping my eyes. This was for her brother after all, right? I shook myself, and gave my wings a flutter.
"Let’s go get it over with."
Pinkie started to fly the balloon down while I followed Twilight to her house, my eyes drooping with every flap.
"Um Rainbow, are you ok?"
I looked up at FlutterShy.
"Of course I am. I'll be fine; it’s just a little early for me."
I brushed it off: a bad night’s sleep can't keep me down. I forced myself to wake up, looking at the sunlight to keep me awake.
"Ok girls, now this is the plan -" I tuned out as Pinkie started rambling on. Her and Rarity seemed to like this whole idea the most; Twilight was taking it all in, the blush on her cheeks probably because she was thinking of Flash; FlutteryShy was paying attention, but kept silent; but AJ, she just looked thoroughly uncomfortable, though I suppose that's partly my fault. I walked toward her and nodded my head toward the door. She blinked at me but followed, looking back to glance at the others still caught up in Pinkie’s activities.
"What's the matter, Rainbow Dash?"
I gave a small breath before turning to her.
"Are you really ok with this? I know it takes time to, adjust but, well are you ok with it?" She looked taken aback, but she managed to answer without too much thought.
"Now Rainbow, my element is honesty, and though I still need to get my head around you an' ma big brother, I am fine with it. If I wasn't, I would have said. I wouldn't have stopped you, I mean, you are both old enough to make these decisions-" I hugged her before she could finish, and pulled away when my eyes began to droop.
"Thanks Apple Jack. It really means a lot."
Just as the girls walked in, I gave a large yawn, and looked up at them slowly.
"Sorry guys. Still a little tired. I'm sure Pinkie can wake me up soon enough."
"Quite the opposite darling." I frowned at Rarity: everything Pinkie does can keep somebody awake. I stood as they looked at each other before laughing: Apple Jack's being the loudest.
"Come on ya'll. I think that Rainbow will love the spa."
Just as I started to fly away, Twilight's magic caught me
"Nope. You promised, and while I said you could sleep here, you can also sleep at the spa. I did the first time."
"Oh I know you did, Twilight. It was rather amusing, might I add. Now come on, Rainbow dear. Today is going to be simply wonderful."
I groaned before muttering under my breath.
"I hate you all."
I sat in a bath full of mud, it just felt stupid. Getting dirty help the skin or something like that from what I could get from Rarity's rambling. I just closed my eyes, this whole thing was as horrible as last time. I opened my eyes and sent Twilight a pleading look, I'd do almost anything to get out of this ... almost.
"Rainbow, just try and relax. Rarity planned this to make you feel better, try. Even Apple Jack in enjoying herself." I sighed, and leaned back against the bath.
"OK, I'll try, but if I don't like it i'm out of here, you guys can enjoy yourselves. That's a Pinkie promise." I closed my eyes, ignoring any looks I'd get from them. I stared at the back of my eyelids, until its blackness turned into colour...
"Howdy Rainbow" I blinked a few times, then wiped my eyes and turned to see Mac, how? I was at the spa, I'm sure. "Rainbow, I can hear your thoughts, this is just a dream" I blinked, well, I guess that does make sense.
"So, what's the dream about?"
"It's your dream, how'm ah supposed to know?" I frowned, if this is my dream that means I can control it right?
"Eeyup"
"Oh yeah, thoughts ... hm ..." Soon red wings sprouted from Macs body, he didn't seem to care. "Well, I guess this is the one change I'll get to fly with you"
"If I knew how to use them miss Dash" I glared at him
"OK, my dream, don't call me miss, Dash is fine on its own. Just flap, this is my dream, you should know how." Soon he was floating easily, his face glued to my own, I gave a small smile before flying higher.
"Are we going to race?" Yeah, that could work, i'll even let him catch up. I started to accelerate, the wind flowing through my mane. Sure enough, he was right next to me, I guess this whole thoughts speech thing sucks.
"You have can stop it ya know" I blinked, hm, ok. Turn off the though speech. Did it work?
"Um, did it work?" I flapped my wings slowly, hovering on the spot looking at him curiously.
"Eeyup... no more talk coming from you mouth" Yes, at least I know he won't fall outta the sky or anything with the stuff that pops into my head.
"Mac, why are you in my dream?" I looked at him, he just smiled, before it started to melt. "What? I didn't think for this to happen, Mac, mac how do I stop it? MAC"
His whole body started to melt, parts of his tail and hooves dripping down through the air as he began to fall, I screamed in horror, flying toward him.
"It won't stop, it never can Rainbow"
"PLEASE!" I hugged him, but he started to slip strait through my hooves. Soon, I was falling, my wings beating hard, but i was only going down.
"Rainbow... Rainbow ...... RAINBOW!" My eyes snapped open the girls all looked at me with worried expressions.
"What?" I said coolly, but none of them moved.
"What in tarnaiton just happened, you were flapping you wings faster than I've ever seen!" I shrugged, and looked at how they seemed to be done.
"Can we go now?" With a small frown they took a step back letting me get up.
"My place, now." I blinked at Twilight, did she really just say that. So we all silently followed her back the the library.
"OK, what happened, you were freaking out Rainbow!"
"It was just a bad dream OK, no biggy" I was met with raised eye brows
"You had a bad dream, what made it so bad?"
"I don't remember, it was just a bad dream OK. You all look like it's something serious ..." They all glanced at Apple Jack, who only looked at her hooves.
"Well, you were hollering Macs name an awful lot" I squeezed my eyes shut, before looking up at her.
"I, I um ... I don't know. He was melting?" I questioned myself trying to work it out, what did it mean.
"Oooh youwereflyingandhemeltedwhenyouhadarace" I gave s small nod at Pinkie, I was too used to her rambling, and her ability.
"Oh, um, how d-did it end?" FlutterShy asked, her hoof rubbing against the floor.
"I fell"
"What does this mean Twilight, maybe you should have some tea darling, I'll be right back" Rarity trotted away as I looked at them all, why were they acting so weird about this?
"Whats going on, why are you acting so strange?" Twilight heaved a sigh, before smiling.
"Well, we've never seen you this ... happy? I, well, were just glad you like him, but at the same time, you did scare us with your screams..."
I laughed just as Rarity came in with a few cups of floating tea.
"Well, how about we get the party going, hopefully with happy screams." I laughed, taing a sip of the tea before putting it on the table, hiding some of my disgust.
"Well, party with be is going to be AWESOME! Apple Jack, you got the cider?"
"Oh yeah, we got the cider!"
"No, your turn, your turn" Rarity hicced, her focus on me.
"No way, I went last time" My voice came out smooth, the alcohol clearly had taken its toll on us all.
"Oh Rainbow it is your turn, spin the bottle!" Twilight lay on the floor, dangling her hooves in the air as she grinned at me,
"Fine, go ahead" She used a little magic to spin the bottle, making sure she wasn't too drunk, and her magic to cause us to explode. Soon the bottle landed on Apple Jack who had been in fits of giggles the entire time.
"I groaned, truth or dare" I looking into her eyes knowing I would be ruined either way.
"Truth." She sat up a grin on her face.
"OK, would you marry ma brother?" Everybody froze, almost like all of the lightness of any alcohol was erased from our system, I gaped at her, speechless.
"I, I ..." The blush rose onto my cheeks, and there was nothing I can do to stop it. Though, she was smiling again and clasped her hands together.
"Oooh you got it bad" FlutterShy squealed, her wings shaking with each breath.
"Um um ... I don't think I'm ready for any commitment like that yet." AJ waved her hoof in the air
"I didn't ask if you were ready, I asked if you would." I sat for a while, nobody said anything.
"...Yes..."
"Aww, Dashies gonna get married! This calls for a party!"
"No!" I yelled, before covering my ears, the sound of my own shout deafening me. I saw they'd done the same. "Sorry, I guess that my no flying home limit reached. Um, where can I crash tonight" I blinked the loudness must have made me more alter to what was happening.
"Well, your with ma brother, I guess you can crash in ma spare." She slurred a little. "We should go now, I have work tomorrow."
"Aww I wanted a party" Pinkie lay on the floor stroking the carpet.
"Tell ya what, if I get marries you can plan the mares night out" She perked up immediately, but made sure she wasn't the one to squeal.
"Wheres ma hat?" Apple Jack asked, looking up at her mane, she turned around before sitting down. Looking at us all
"Maybe you put it down next to the cider" I hopped up my legs feeling like jelly. I stumbled to the barrel, and sure enough her hat was next to it, dry.
"OK, here you are, I feel like my wings will fall off." I looked down at my drooping wings, the longest feathers breaking from my flanks. I threw the hat to AJ, and she picked it up from the floor after giving it an inspection.
"We better go, or neither of us will be able to walk" She stood, her legs sturdy due to not drinking as much as anybody else.
"Bye girls"
We headed out of Twilight's house, both stumbling a little, our giggle ringing through the streets. We walked close, leaning on each-other so we didn't fall, though as soon as Sweet Apple Acres was in view, we both tripped on a rock, our laughter causing a light in the house to come on.
"Oopsie, I guess we woke somebody."
"Na, he's been awake the entire time, waiting for me to come home" Sure enough Mac exited the house, trotting toward us, though he didn't seem happy.
"Well, I guess I'll have to carry one of you" I waved my hoof in the air as AJ stood smirked.
"Ooh pick me, pick me." He looked at me, his face blank, but he picked me up anyway. I wrapped my hooves around his thick neck, breathing in his scent. I nuzzles my nose into the back of his mane as his pace kept with AJ encase she needed more support.
"I'll see myself to my room, night ya'll" She gave her hat a small wave before heading up the house steps, I made small nod before I yawned.
"Tired?" I pushed my face into his mane as an answer, closing me eyes. His body still moved beneath me, making me feel like I was floating. My tail swished against his back leg, as I felt it flick against me, it must be tickling him. I opened my eyes as I felt like I was slipping off him and he leaned to the side to help me fall onto the bed. I gripped tighter.
"No, I'm not sleepy yet" I nuzzled my face back into his mane
"Eeyup, into bed." This time I gripped with my hind legs, but I still felt to bed on my side, I peeked through and eye to see he was laid on the bed too. I released him a little, hoping he wouldn't go.
"Goodnight Rainbow" He whispered before starting to stand
"No, don't go, please." I normally hated begging, but the alcohol was making me clinging, and weak. I moved backward, making myself almost against the wall. He rolled over slowly, his eyes making a frown.
"Your drunk, I can't" Le brushed my mane with his hoof before moving to get up again.
"Please ..." I pleaded with my eye, my wings shaking against my flanks. "I just want to sleep next to you" I could see him thinking, weighing all the options.
"Eeyup, but just sleep" I nodded frantically as he came to lay beside me, looking down at the drunk mess I was. Slowly I moved forward, and laid my head on his chest, his soft fur making the best pillow. I felt myself falling to sleep, my eyes shutting. I felt his hooves move to pull me into a hug, before he whispered.
"Sweet dreams"
I jumped awake, feeling like my whole body was shaking. I blinked and looked around, seeing I was curled up with Mac.
How? I didn't get drunk and stupid, he'd never?
I looked at him closely to see that he was the one shaking, was he cold? Slowly I sat up to put my hoof against his head, he wasn't cold. I looked down at him again, why was he shaking? Before I could react he opened his eyes and flipped us around, he now hovered over me on the bed, his breathing labored. His eyes were wide and unfocused before slowly returning to normal.
"R-rainbow?" He breathed before starting to calm down, then he moved off me and onto the floor. I rolled on the bed frowning at him.
"What was that?" I asked ignoring the pounding in my head, as he shook his.
"Nothing, just a bad dream." He kissed the top of my head avoided the the subject before frowning. "I better get you something for the hang-over, wait here."
I was about to object but he was right. I laid back on the bed, his scent clear in the air. I inhaled deeply, the noise in my head becoming faint. I stretched my wings, before rolling onto my side, waiting for him to come back. It was light, the mornings rays washing over my, making my fur look golden. Closing my eyes I waited, and sure enough the sound of his hooves became louder. I opened my eyes when the sound stopped, and looked at his a small smile on my face. He held up a glass.
"This should work." I sat us to take the glass, sipping on it before coughing.
"Ew what is this stuff" I wiped my tongue with my spare hoof.
"That will make you feel better, drink up." I scowled at him, but swallowed my pride, as well as the rest of the glass. I gagged afterward, wiping my tongue with both hooves.
"That was horrible"
"Eeyup" He came forward, and pressed his head against mine. The pounding was gone, had it really worked that fast?
"Want to get the taste out?" I nodded quickly, breaking my head from his.
"That would be awesome." He chuckled before heading toward the door, I flapped my wings and flew over him, grinning as I reached the door before he did.
"We have breakfast ready if your in a rush." I landed on his back and laughed, giving his mane a small rub with my muzzle.
"Nope, just lazy." He raise and eyebrow before shaking a little, as I flew up again so I wouldn't fall. We started to shove each-other playfully until we got to the stairs.
"Ladies first." I snorted, I was no lady, but still headed down the stairs blushing. Stupid blush. The smell of food got me exited, as I trotted into the kitchen.
"Good morning Granny Smith." I smiled at her, she practically ruled this farm, I had to get into her good books if I wanted to spend more time with Mac.
"Hello Rainbow Dash, what brings you here, and so early."
"Heh he, um about that..." I felt the bluch rise to my cheeks as I shuffles nervously on my hooves.
"She got drunk with Apple Jack granny." Big Mac makes the save, I sent him a quick thank you look before sitting at the table.
"You youngns." Was all she said before shaking her head and leaving, she patted Macs shoulder as she left, saying something quickly to him in a whispered voice. He glanced at me quickly, eyes wide before nodding.
"So, what do you want to eat?" He came into the room once Granny had left, standing in front of the food on the table.
"Everything?" I looked at him, hoping to find out what Granny had told him, but he just laughed. I was about to ask when AJ walked in, looking like last night never happened.
"Morning ya'll" She tipped her hat, grabbing a plate and sat down to eat.
"Morning AJ, you feeling alright?" She nodded towards him before staring at me. She looked at me, a blink look on her face, she kept the blank look and carried on staring at me.
"What?" Shrugging she began to nibble at her food, she looked as if she were somewhere else.
"Here ya go Dash" I was broken from my thoughts as Mac placed my food in-front of me, sitting down himself to eat his own. I noticed he gave us the same amount, this must be a test. I dug in, and made sure I was to eat ever last crumb, it all tasted awesome, I couldn't help the small moan that escaped my lips before I finished. I licked any food that was left from my face before turning to look at him.
"Thanks Mac." He blinked, finishing the last of his food, before smiling at me.
"Ah'm glad you've got ah good appetite." I flapped my wings.
"Need to energy to fly around all day." I gave a small yawn before looking at AJ again, she had a small goofy grin on her face, staring into space.
"AJ?" She shook her head and blinked, she looked at me a small blush on her cheeks.
"Whats the matter Rainbow?"
"Well, Ya;ll staring into space with a goofy smile an ya face" I nodded as she blinked at us.
"If I didn't know any better, I'd say that the look of day-dreaming ... a certain stallion maybe?" Mac stood up quickly, as Aj looked at him her mouth handing open.
"Now Mac don't go gettin' any idea, I haven't got a coltfriend"
"But you want one right" I perked up, grinning at her. "Who is it? I bet I know him ..." Or her? I tilted my head watching her.
"He'd never notice me, we've met one, but ah don't think he'd remember me." OK, this narrows the search down, I went though m head accounting ever stallion she's only met personally once. Only one name surfaced.
"SOARIN'!" Mac looked ta me confused as she gasped, a deep blush against her cheeks.
"Ah, if you'd gone home you'd never would have know... yes, I've had this small crush for ah while. A crush, thats is." I laughed, as Mac still looked confused. I smiled at her.
"Well, if you'd like to know, he really really likes Pie" Getting up i nudged Mac
"Don't worry, he has yet to get to know her. I think he'd be a good match. Pegasus, so you can't go and torment him like I know your thinking about." He looked down at me deadpan.
"Rainbow, what do you mean by yet to know me"
I grinned. "Well, I know that he and Spits are friends, and me and Spits are friend, I can easily get him to help me, and then leave him with you." Her eyed went wide, as I heard Mac make a small noise.
"R-rainbow ah" I trotted toward the door, chuckling.
"What are friends for right?" I left the kitchen on my way outside to fly home, when I felt somebody tug on my tail. I tuned to see an un-impressed Mac infront of me.
"Ah decide who she can date." I laughed, dropping to the floor.
"No, besides, she's OK with us, you can let her go on one date with the stallion right? For me?" His hard stare faltered at the last part, he gave an irritated sigh before nuzzling into me.
"Your making me softer than ah should be" I blushed, looking down.
"Your making me soft too, I blame the alcohol" He chucked, before looking at the sun. Chores had to be done on the farm.
"Could be, ah guess it makes sense."
"Mac.."
"Yeah?"
"Never let us get drunk" He grinned at me before waling away.
"Eeyup"
I woke up early, the sun was shining through my windows, normally this would have annoyed me, being up early and all, but today was my anniversary. Six months to be exact. I hopped onto my floor, hearing the light poof beneath my feet as I walked toward my vanity. I picked up my brush, putting extra effort into how it looked today, until no kinks were in my mane, making it look almost wet with how much longer it had become. Today my usual stray strands wouldn't be making my main look unbrushed showing the effort that Macintosh deserved. I sighed, flying would muss it up a little, maybe I should see Rarity? No, she'd make me wear a bunch of girly stuff and that was the last thing I wanted. I frowned, he loves me this way anyway right? Yes, just be yourself, the awesome pony you know you are. Giving my wings a quick shake I headed toward my door, to hear a few poofs as I got closer.
"Um, Rainbow Dash are you home? Or awake. Oh no, she wouldn’t be awake at this hour." I smiled, it was only Fluttershy’s timid voice behind the door, I went outside to greet her.
"Morning Flutteshy, what can I do for ya?" She shuffled on her hooves, looking baffled at the fact I was awake, or maybe it was my mane?
"I um, I know it’s really really early, but um ... can you help me find Angel, you see he's hiding in-" I put my hoof over her mouth, rolling my eyes. Though the bunny was evil, it loved her, as she did it, and her being as upset about him being lost to ask me for help, only made me need to help her.
"Sure I'll help get your evil bunny back." I stated, still acting as carefree as usual, though I hoped she’d notice why I was making the effort today.
"Oh thank you so much Rainbow Dash, and he really isn’t an evil bunny, just misunderstood." She took wing from my house, her gentle wing beats heading toward the last place she saw him. Following with ease, I ignored that nagging in my head to fly on the direction of Sweet Apple Acres to see Macintosh. I kept my focus on the demon bunny, he had to be found before Fluttershy goes crazy.
She landed by her cottage and began to walk toward the forest, I flew behind, looking around for any sign of the white fur ball. She muttered to herself while walking, probably quite plea's for his return. I yawned causing her to jump.
"Sorry, still waking myself up." She nodded, a small smile appearing on her lips, as she turned back around.
"That was silly of me, thank you for coming to help anyway Rainbow Dash." I shrugged, even though she couldn't see it, as she looked under a bush quickly. I decided to land, the rabbit wouldn't be able to fly so my wings are deemed useless in this task. I looked long and hard at every plant, rock or creature we passed, still no sign of this little bunny. Why had he run off anyway?
After what seemed like hours of searching we headed back to the cottage for a break, by now I was annoyed at the fur ball for making me wait this long to see Mac. I cursed the evil rabbit, ruining all my plans. If it wasn't to help Shy I would have been long gone by now.
"I'm sorry for dragging you out there with me Rainbow, he, um, he's never been gone this long" I gave my wings a long stretch, all the walking was stupid. She was starting to get a little hysterical so I tried to calm her down.
"Just helping a friend, even if this has taken way too. When I see him I’ll -" I was cut of by her loud shout, much more impressive than any of the times I tried to teach her to shout “Yay”.
"ANGEL!" She charged at the rabbit sitting in her cottage with a carrot, he frowned at her, oblivious to that face she'd been looking for him for that past few hours. She hugged him tightly, before letting him go back to his carrot. I glared at him, stupid little bunny, I lost so much time trying to find him.
"Well, you got him back, I got to go Shy." I flew out, hearing her say say bye, before I shot of in the direction of Sweet Apple Acres, hoping that Mac wasn’t working when I saw him.
As soon as Sweet Apple Acres was in view, I sped up. Though I knew I’d need to slow down, because crashing today was not happening. I braced myself, letting my wings stop the air beside me, as I landed. I let out a breath, the relief of not crashing felt good. Though by now I bet my hair was set into its usual style.
“Howdy Rainbow Dash, what are you here for today?” I turned and rolled my eyes at her, she knew what today was. She rubbed a hoof over her brow, looking at me from under her hat.
“Looking for you brother, where is he?” She looked at me confused. I frowned, what game was she playing?
“Ah though he’d told you ...” I stood still, my eyes locked onto hers. I felt evey inch of my body freeze.
“Told me what?” I managed to keep any anger from my voice this better not be anything serious. She sighed, oh I guess this means I need to go and buck somepony's flank!
“He, uh … had to go out of town.” I lifted my head, my wings flying out as I looked at her. She took a step back, the look in my eye must have said something to her.
“Any why couldn’t he have told me? What was so important that he had to go?” I stomped, gritting my teeth, how could he have forgotten today … why? The anger soon turned into being upset as I fought back tears. She gave a small laugh.
“Don’t worry Rainbow he’ll be back later today, ah promise, and ah wouldn’t lie to you.” I started to calm down, but the fact he hadn't told me anything still made me doubt that his trip was anything but good. Giving a fake smile to AJ I decided to take a flight and clear my head, to make a logical reason for him leaving and not telling me … though, none were coming to mind.
I sat looking down into the lake, the place where we used to come just to chill out. I looked the same, my reflection like it always has been, but there was something different this time, I wasn’t smiling. He’d taken trips before, and he’d told me, and thats why I was upset, he took one today, and didn’t tell me!
I dipped my hooves into the water, before splashing it into my face, the cool water making me shiver. Letting out a sigh, I looked up, to see the sky beginning to darken. I guess the flight to clear my head took a lot longer than I though. Drawing in a deep breath, I looked up wondering if I should fly back toward the farm, in hope that he’d be waiting for me. Was I fooling myself? Uch, all this time with them and I’m getting girly. Maybe I should just end it, and making the hurting stop easier.
A gust of wind blew harshly into my face at the thought, was this a sign or a coincidence? Whatever it is, I better go, before the cold sets in. Though home was the place in my head I found myself landing outside AJ’s house. Before I could even put a hoof through the door I heard her shouting my name.
“RAINBOW DASH!” I frowned turning, to see her with raw eyes galloping toward me.
“AJ?” I questioned as she got close enough, though she was out of breath she wheezed out her sentence, before catching her breath.
“Where have you been, ah’ve been looking for ya all day!” I shrugged, sitting on her porch steps.
“Just thinking, what the problem anyway?” She sniffed, taking a deep breath.
“Mac’s gone, he came home a long while ago, and left all happy, then he came back a few hours ago and he was really upset, sayin’ you stood him up then he just left, ah was looking for you find find out what happened, but ah just couldn’t find you.” I looked at her, not even sure how I looked.
“How did I stand him up, he didn’t tell me he was going how was I to know what time he’d be back, or that he’d made plans!” Being upset was gone, now I was just filled with rage that he was blaming me for this. She must have noticed since she took a small step back.
“Now Rainbow ah-” I cut her off, I didn’t need to hear anymore than that.
“Save it, I’m going to find him, and set this straight.” I flew up, giving her no chance to respond before heading toward ponyville, if he passed through a number of ponies would be able to tell me. The flight was quick, and I’m sure if i’d gone any faster then there would have been a sonic rainboom. Though, as soon as I landed I didn’t even need to ask if he’d been seen.
“Mac went to the bar, in the doghouse?” I faked a laugh, before heading in the direction of the bar. Though I was still a fair distance away, all I could hear were cheers and oo’s, gritting my teeth I got ready for whatever awaits.
What I saw in front of me was not what I expected, Mac had sompony pinned to the floor. His red and black mane mussed up, and bruises were starting to form on his and the stars on his cutiemark didn’t look familiar. Though for the moment I watched them, this pony had gotten back up was way about to attack Macintosh. Anger flared through me as I flew between them, my wings flaring up with the rage. He looked at me, confused, as his eyes ran over my, obviously trying to work out what I was from his drunk state of mind. Once I was happy he wasn’t going to try anything I turned to the big red pony who stood shocked at the sight of me, as a glare reached my eyes.
I moved around to stare at him, he look pretty fine compared to the stallion on the floor. Though him being drunk wasn’t helping his case right now. I was just about to yell at him, when the pony got up, about to throw another punch. Not today! I launched forward and punched him instead, sending him onto the floor, with no signs of waking up just yet. Mac opened his mouth, about to talk when I punched him to.
“Get your flank out NOW!” He didn’t hesitate, and all but galloped from the bar, as I flew after him, ignoring the stares that followed us. As soon as I got out I didn’t bother taking, I bit into his ear and pulled him out of ponyville. I didn’t care any more, though anger still bubble within me. I let go and turned to him. My eyes level with his, he blinked, saying nothing.
“So, you lied to AJ.” He shook his head, his lazy face now being angry as mine.
“No ah didn’t you didn’t show up!” I growled at him, before turning away to land, kicking my hoof against the floor.
“Show up to what? Until this morning I didn’t even know you’d gone out of town!” I heard him snort, making me turn and glare.
“Ah didn’t tell you about me going, because ah didn’t plan on taking as long as ah did, ah left a note on your door about tonight when ah did get back!” I frowned.
“Well then i’m sorry, I was too busy being upset that you didn’t tell me that I haven’t been home since I got up this morning.” His face softened, as he looked down.
“Ah guess ah shouldn’t have relied on that note ...” I let out a shaky breath, the anger now became hurt again.
“You think?” I asked, on the brim of tears, though I managed to keep them away.
“Ah’m sorry Rainbow I over reacted, ah’m an idiot.” I looked at him, though the last part was definitely what he was saying to himself. I sighed, I guess we can tick off first fight on the guide to being a couple. I sat down, not even sure of what to do, it’s been a full circle of emotions since this morning.
I felt him move toward me, though he sounded a lot more sober now, maybe he wasn’t as drunk as I thought. I glanced up, and he stood over me. His hoof moved some of my mane back, as he leaned down and brushed his muzzle across my cheek.
“Ah am sorry Dashie, ah should have at least told AJ to tell you. Ah messed up.” I felt the tears spring back into my eyes as I stared into his eyes. In that moment I just wanted to kiss him, but I held back, just saying sorry wasn’t going to fix this.
“Ah am really sorry, but ah made some plans that were really important to me, and when you didn't show up, ah guess I just-" I stood and put my hoof against his mouth.
“Stop saying sorry.” He smiled, and gave my hoof a small kiss. Sending shivers up my spine, as I quickly put it back on the ground. He was never going to find out how ticklish I was. "What was so important, I would have been perfectly fine just ... being with you. Instead I was alone half the day worrying that you didn't want me."
He gasped, pulling my against his chest. I was shocked at first, but I nuzzled into him, I can't stay mad any longer. My wings folded against me, as I pulled away.
"No, don't even think like that, ah love you Rainbow, no matter how stupid ah am." His eyes bore into mind, forcing me to accept his words. Though I just sat, waiting for him to answer my question. He turned away from me, with his head down.
“Well, this is ah lot different to the way ah planned to do this.” I frowned, standing up to see what he was doing. When he turned around nothing was different, until he stood inches from me, and dropped down onto one knee. I gaped at him, unable to talk, as he smiled.
"Rainbow, ah have loved you for ah very long time, and even though today was a disaster, ah still need to ask. Will you please become my wife, and marry me?"
I froze, did he just ... propose ? I felt dizzy with the thoughts going around my head as he looked up at me. I opened my mouth to speak and nothing came out, as he shuffled up.
"Ah guess this was-" Without a thought, I jumped into his hooves, kissing him deeply. If my body won’t let me speak, I guess I'll need to take another approach. I felt his jump t the shock, but soon he kissed me back, with just as much passion.
“Is that a yes?” He asked as we caught our breath, I nodded rapidly, burying my head against his mane.
“Becoming your wife is going to be awesome.” I felt him chuckle beneath me, as he rolled onto his back, pulling me into him. I sighed into his fur, inhale his scent.
“This still doesn't tell me where you went...” I stated, as he looked down at me.
“Ah went to get the ring, and ah knew if I got it in town, news would spread before ah even had the chance to ask you.” I laughed softly against him, that was true.
“Hm, so what does it look like?” I asked, getting off of him, and looking down at his face. He smiled simply.
“Well, ah saved up to get one just for you.” I bit my lip feeling the blush spread to my face, he must have spent a lot of bits just to get it. He chuckled again, before rolling over and standing up.
“Why don’t ah show it to you instead?” I shrugged,trying to act cooler, since I was feeling like Rarity right now. He rolled his eyes, nudging me forward, as we made our way toward his home. The entire walk there we were quite, other than the occasional brushing against each others side, or a small kiss. Though I hated to admit it, some of the girlier things I do when with Mac are fun, and I love them.
"Home sweet home." He murmured, when the house was in view, the front porch light swinging in the light breeze.
"Oh yeah, AJ." I heard him let out a sigh, before he smiled at me.
"Ah'll explain everthin', you go on ahead to my room." He gave me a quick kiss before turning to see his sister, who stood watching us both confused. I held in a giggle as I flew passed her, straight into Mac's room. Even if I really did want to hear her reaction to us now being engaged. The first time I;ve said i and now I feel giddy. I really need to stop all this girly stuff.
I sat on his bed, getting more comfortable as I waiting, brief hushed words floating up the stairs. ‘Bloom must be in bed. I swing my hooved back and fore, as hoofsteps came up the stairs. Soon Mac was stood at the door, a smile on his face.
"How'd she take it?" I asked, wondering if she'd gone crazy, or was letting us have some privacy.
"Ah haven't told her that part, she'll see in the morning." I tilted my head to stare at him
"But I thought-" He shook his head silencing me.
"No, tonight I just wanted her to leave us alone, tomorrow we can worry about telling everybody we know. Now, your ring?" I felt childish, like on Hearth's Warming as a filly. Waiting for the gifts I’ve wanted to unwrap for weeks.
He opened his bedside drawer, taking out a small box. I look at him and smiled, when he offered it. Instead, I turned to my side and closed my eyes, waiting for him to put it on me. I felt a cold sting on my ear before I opened my eyes. He grinned at me, before going around his bed to get a mirror so I could see.
I smiled at him again before looking down into the surface, I couldn’t help but gasp. The ring was silver, and had a green apple diamond embedded within it. I started at him, amazed at how beautiful it was before the sound of him shuffling on the floor drew my attention away from the reflection. I blushed looking at him, the girly feeling flipping inside me again.
“Oh Macintosh I love it.” I said, before getting up and wrapping my hooves around his neck. He pulled me closer. His muzzle rubbing against the top of my mane.
“Ah’m glad you like it, now ...” I didn’t have chance to react as he lay me on the bed. Kissing my forehead. “How on earth shall we tell ma family?” I frowned, not liking how the subject had changed.
“Let’s worry about that tomorrow, for now why don’t you join me?” I asked patting the bed beside me, smirking up at him. His face changed from confusion to a happy grin, as he started to lean toward me.
“As you with M’lady” He said before kissing me once more. I could definitely get used to this.
I woke slowly, my forehooves stretching out across the bedsheets. Bedsheets? Opening my eyes I found myself staring at Macs bedroom wall, a blush crossing my face as I remembered the night we'd had. So, beds can be as comfortable as a cloud.
I rolled over, to find his side of the bed empty, a the smell of breakfast his my nose sending a ricochet of delicious smells through me. I grinned this would be the perfect time to show of my newest item of jewelry.
Letting out a yawn, I gave my wings a short flap to move the covers from my body, as Mac walked in with a large smile on his face. He gave me a frown as he looked at me, before glancing out the window and looking at me once more letting out a small breath.
“I thought you’d still be asleep.” I rolled my eyes at him, before getting out of bed only to glance through the window as the sun started its routinely ascent into the sky. Usually I would be asleep, I guess I had a nice filling rest to get me up earlier.
“Just because I don’t normally get up before Celestia raises the sun, doesn’t mean it never happens.” He chuckled, and stepped closer before pulling me into a hug. I nuzzled my head into his fur before looking up into his eyes.
"I guess now is the time we tell the family?" I asked hesitantly, dreading every second. He nodded, though I felt his heart beat speed up a little, I guess he was a worried, chuckling I stepped back smiling.
“I got this, don’t worry about me.” I said, rolling my eyes at him again though much more playfully.
“Ah’m worried about me Dash.” I frowned, giving him a hard look, waiting for further explanation I refused to move until he’d tell me why he’s the one worried.
“Well, ah guess they might assume ah proposed because they’d think you're pregnant …” I stood speechless, 1) The fact he’d thought of that and 2)That he thinks that they’d jump to that conclusion. I coughed the thought of having his foals a topic we’d never talked about before.
“I don’t think they will, now uh, lets just get it over with. Come on ya big lug.” I headed out of the room, before stopping and turning round as he held the glimmering apple in his hoof.
“Ah think you might need this now.” I stuck my tongue out at him, before clasping it around my ear once more, though now don’t think I will take it off until I need to sleep. Inhaling a quick breath I puffed out my chest and made my way down the stairs closely followed by Mac. I sighed deeply as the smell of breakfast followed into my nose once again, I licked my lips trotting to my seat at the table.
“Wow, smells awesome in here Granny” I sat down, piling food high on my plate, the excitement of the food making me bounce in my seat a little as Mac sat down shaking his head.
“Do you ever stop eatin’?” I shot him a small glare, who cares how much I eat, I burn it off flying so I won’t be getting fat anytime soon. I’m pretty sure I’d die of starvation if I skipped even one meal.
“Why thankyou Rainbow dear, you need some meat on those bones, Mac stop teasin.’” I turned to him, smirking granny was on my side … wait a minute.
“What do you mean meat on my bones?” She simply laughed, before taking a bite of her food and swallowing. I stared at her waiting for my answer causing me to frown when I didn’t get one. I took a large bite of my own food as I waited.
“Ya’ll too thin to bare an Apple of course.” I spluttered of my food, barely managing to swallow it before I coughed wildly, Mac rubbed at my back to help as I shot him a look, he stared at me deadpan but I could see the look in his eyes, I guess he didn’t know she’d talk about that. I glanced at AJ and ‘Bloom to find them staring at Granny.
“Wha-” I was about to put up a fight before Granny cut me off.
“Rainbow dear, what is that on your ear?” I suddenly didn’t feel as bold as I had, leaning back into Mac’s hoof for support. Breath Rainbow, she’s going to be happy Mac is getting married to an awesome pony like you, yeah of course she is. I glanced up at him as he looked down at me, clearly feeling uncomfortable.
“Uh … and engagement ring Granny.” I said, giving a small smile as I heard gasps from both AJ and ‘Bloom, causing Granny to stare and stand up, she walked around the table picking up a large plate of food and putting it next to mine.
“Eat up mare, I ain’t having no skinny grand-foals.” She then walked out muttering about making foals, I looked up at Mac wide eyed. What just happened?
“Ya’ll getting married, oh are we going to be flower fillies again?” I sat still, looking over at Apple Blooms excitement as she grinned from ear to ear. I ignored her question, since I didn’t really have an answer, and looked up at AJ, who just sat still looking at us.
“AJ?” I questioned, she cleared her throat and shook her head, though her eyes did have a slight happy shine.
“Ah don’t know you were pretty mad at eachother last night, how did it end with ya’ll being married?” I blushed, and opened my mouth to speak before Mac beat me to it.
“A misunderstandin’ AJ, we were both at fault for that. We talked and it was explained, ah don’t think you need to know anythin’ else. We’re engaged not married.” I leaned into his side, smiling up at him, before looking at AJ again she’d began to smile, a small one proving to me that she wasn’t completely happy with that explanation.
“Ah was worried there for a moment, I’m happy ya’ll got somebody to love, and that you can work things out.” She gave us a genuine happy smile, walking over toward us, as I gave her a short and awkward hug.
“Thanks AJ, it uh means a lot.” She mussed up some of my mane before shooting Mac a look. The look was a mixture of protection and threat, and I had to force myself not to laugh.
“Ah expect you to look after her, and Rainbow, ah expect you not to hurt him too.” I folded my hooves giving her one of Mac’s stoic faces, offended at her comment. I scowled, lifting my head dignified.
“Hey my element is loyalty ya know, I won’t be breaking anypony’s heart... other than the poor stallions that don’t get to marry this awesome mare.” She rolled her eyes but nodded in agreement as I felt Mac chuckle beside me, causing y wings to twitch slightly.
“Do ah still get to be a flower filly.” ‘Bloom asked, her hoved up on the table as shen looked a little sad. The bow on her head tipping backward in an almost impossible angle.
“You bet, but we haven’t exactly planned anything to do with a wedding yet ...”
I trotted through the town, proudly showing off the earing, while I made my way toward Twilight's library to tell her the good news. Though we all kinda owned the castle now in Ponyville, she preferred the more homey vibe from the library. Though on my way a certain filly caught my attention, though I glanced around to see she was on her own.
“Hey squirt, doing some crusading today?” She instantly turned at my voice a beaming smile on her face as she ran toward me her wings flapping excitedly. I laughed at her eagerness, giving her a small hug when she got close. She bounced around a little from my attention.
“Hey Rainbow Dash! Wait, what’s that?” She grinned, before tilting her head confusion flashing across her face, she took a step backward frowning at it. She stared up at it as her eyes went wide, her mouth agape as she continued to stare at his as if it was enchanting her.
“Well, I’m engaged to Mac now, Apple Bloom is insisting that you her and Sweetie Bell are all flower fillies for this wedding whenever it happens. I guess that’s me asking you?” I shook my head inwardly, planning a wedding is something I’m definitely not familiar with.
“Ohmygosh, ohmygosh, ohmygosh, yes yes yes.” She all but shouted, jumping around me in circles flapping her wings and lifting herself up for a few seconds before dropping back down again. I noticed that we’d caused a little commotion as ponies began to stare in our direction.
“Oooh we all better go and prepare maybe we’ll get cutie marks for helping with the wedding, congratulations Rainbow, this wedding is going to be awesome!” She took of once more down the path I’d taken. I laughed once more shaking my head, smiling at her, my wedding will be awesome! I grinned her excitement rubbed off on my as I trotted onward, i just felt sorry for anybody in the CMC’s way. Soon The large tree library was in view, I picked up the pace a little my happy stride soon getting me through the door, discarding my traditional ways of flying through the window.
“Hey Rainbow Dash” I was greeted by Spike, who didn’t have anything to do with cleaning in his claws for once. He looked at me before carrying on with whatever he was doing.
“Hey Spike, Twi here?” He nodded pointing up to her room before coming to a halt to stare at my earing his eye widening. I simply grinned and flew up to her room. She sat on her bed with her nose in a book, the usual Twilight habit but she seemed less focused.
“Twi?” She jumped at my voice a small noise escaping her as I laughed, she was way too easy to scare. Getting over the shock, she shook herself, her wings twitching slightly before she glared in my direction.
“Oh hey Rainbow what brings you here so early?” She seemed completely oblivious to my earing at the time, annoyance laced in her voice,I shrugged before blurting out what I came to ask without another thought.
“I think I need a wedding planner” She blinked slowly, taking in the question making me stand silent waiting for her answer. I shuffled on my hooves nervously.
“T-then why did you a-ask me?” She seemed flustered by my question, and didn’t give me a yes, or no for that matter. I snorted, fighting the urge to roll my eyes.
“Well, you're my best friend and with your checklists and stuff you're the logical choice right?” She brought her hoof to her mouth, before tackling me with a hug before I had chance to say anything.
“Oh Rainbow I’d love to, I could get all the girls to help me i’m sure, my biggest project yet since my princess hood!” I looked up at her, happy she was doing it, but slightly worried about the lengths she’s going to go.
“Uh, don’t over do it Twi, sure it needs to be an awesome wedding but all I want is to be Mac’s wife, I don’t care about the fancy girly stuff… Twi seriously.” She looked up slightly from the scroll she was adding a number or words to, a large list forming on the paper. Where did it even come from?
“Well it will be the first wedding held in our castle, that I can guarantee!” I stood up slowly, shaking my wings a little to put my feathers back in place. Today was moving at a really fast pace, even for me!
“Uh, are you sure, I mean I like flashy but this isn’t my wedding it’s Mac’s too …” She stopped dead in her tracks grinning wildly, causing me to take a small step back.
“Twi … are you OK?” She jumped up and down once, then smiled at me.
“Just go and see Rarity for your dress, I’ll grab Pinkie to help me plan this wedding, go, go!” I looked at her confused and worried, but deep down I knew she was just planning something for me, and was going to relish in the experience. Now, if Rarity must make my dress, then I better get Mac to give his measurements too.
“Uh Twi … i’m new to all of this, I don’t want to be like those mean, crazy controlling brides or anything, and I want all of you girls involved so can you promise not to go crazy on me?”
“Of course, I’ll make sure everybody gets to help so i won’t go overboard.” I smiled, feeling a weird … wait I know why. I’m going to be a wife for the rest of my life, I’m going to live with the apples, I’m going to work on the farm forever!
I forced a smile at her, taking a deep breath before flying through her window to let her plan things. I needed to calm myself down, and only one pony had the right qualifications for that job. I picked up my pace to get to him, thinking of his voice clear in my head before my mind hammered itself with questions.
“Dashie are you OK?” I landed in front of him shaking my head.
“No, I, argh.” I threw my hooves into the air turning from him. I tried to even out my breaths before carrying on, squeezing my eyes shut when he walked to look at my face.
“Are you sure you want me as a wife Mac, I mean did you think about this, where would be be in a year, heck a few months? Are you-” I was cut off as he kissed me, his hooves wrapping themselves around me. He broke away only to speak.
“Ah have, and ah can't wait for you to be the last mare ah see before ah sleep and to wake up to your face every morning, and to share everything I have with you for the rest of ma life.”
“But, but you know I’m not the kind of mare to, bring you your paper to read in the morning, or, or cook since you know I can’t cook to save my life and that I-” He silenced me with a kiss again, though I couldn't figure out if it pleased or annoyed me more.
“Dash, ah love you for you, all of your perfections and flaws, your tantrums and when you act like a mare around me, how you make me feel like ah matter and how even when you don’t want to you always help ma family, before ah met you my world was as simple as black and white, and now just like you it’s full of colour, ah love you so much Dash, ah don’t want you to change for me or anybody else. I want you to be ma wife, for the rest of ma life.” I blinked as a tear rolled over my cheek, seeing them pool within his own eyes as he went on, his voice beginning to crack. I sniffed, that was one of the sweetest things he’d ever said to me.
“W-was that supposed to be your vow’s?” His took a large breath, quickly wiping his tears.
“Something like that … ah just-” This time I cut him off with a kiss, full to the brim with as much love as I could. Once satisfied I’d shown him enough I buried my face into his neck.
“I love you Mac, I promise I won’t change, and if I do it’ll be for the better for us, and I’ll try not to … overthink things like this again.” I felt him shake with a slight laugh before her rolled onto his back.
“It’s ok ah got to kiss you, more than one ah might add.” I giggled against his fur before sitting up and putting my hooves over my mouth, giggling was so girly. He simply smiled, his hooves running off my back onto the grass.
“Ah like it when you giggle” I scrunched up my face at him, swishing my tail with annoyance.
“But it’s girly, and comes with the words cute and adorable attached!” He laughed at me.
“Oh but Dashie you are very cute and adorable in my eyes, and even if you don’t like it you can’t stop it, so give in because ah’m not gonna stop.”
“Just shut up and kiss me.” And like the good stallion he was, he was happy to comply.
“No, I said no, there will be no wedding!” I shouted at my friends, each one stopped dead in their tracks to look at me, the papers of wedding planning being dropped on the table.
“R-rainbow darling … surely you don’t mean that?” I snorted at her, folding up my hooves in annoyance.
“I said before all of this started, I don’t want to be a crazy controlling bride … I’m not, but you’re crazy controlling bridesmaids! If this is what getting married is doing to you then the wedding is off, I’ll take Mac to Las Pegasus and do it without you.” They all began to resemble a fish, before AJ managed to gather herself.
“Aw Rainbow, you’ve said this all before and you didn’t go through with it, come on I’m sure we can all just … calm down.” I shook my head at AJ.
“I don’t care how many times I need to say it, this whole wedding is driving me insane with all the flowers and other things I couldn’t care less about.” I stomped my hoof, trying to get the point across.
“You have the food you wanted right?” I did a double take, how was that relevant? My eyes flared at Rarity.
“Yes, because other than wading through flowers and other pointless wedding things to marry the stallion I love, the only other thing I cared about was food so you're damn right I got what I wanted!”
“Rainbow calm down, we just want this to be perfect for you, we’d done most of what you asked ...” Rarity’s poor attempt at calming me down was only making it worse.
“Yes, and look where that's gotten me, don’t you get it?” I felt angry tears sting my eyes, I blinked furiously to send them away.
“Rainbow what’s this really about, we’ve done everything you asked, you gave us your yes and no’s what’s gotten you so worked up?” I glared at Twilight, how could she think this was my fault?
“Nothing, and that’s the point, my wedding is going to be so ... perfect isn’t it? I never wanted that, I didn’t want it to be extravagant since this is just MY wedding isn’t it, do you think Mac cares about half of this, come on AJ is this what he’d want?”
“Rainbow all he wants is for you to be happy, ah think he wouldn’t mind if it’s what you want.” I sighed knowing it was true, but this isn’t what I want anymore. How can they believe he’d like this just because I approved it?
“No, I can’t do this without him, this is the last time I just ... I’m going to calm down, then I’m getting married.” I flapped my wing irritably shooting from Twilights window, leaving everybody gaping after me.
I flew to the farm, the speed helping me think, I always did my best thinking when flying, glancing at the sun I looked at the position in the sky to check what time it would be to make sure I wouldn’t disturb Mac from his work, I hated doing that to him. Relief washed over me as I saw him walking from the fields, taking his yoke off to lean it against a tree. His ears swivelled around before he settled by the tree, he glanced up in my direction before he looked up closely, giving me a blinding smile. It fell from his face as I landed.
“What happened this time Dashie?” I buried my head in his fur, letting the tears I held back fall.
“We’re going to L-las pegasus to get married, I don’t w-want to be in the same room as those mares anymore! They want it all to b-be for me, and to be a big wedding to end all w-weddings, and all I want is for i-it to be for us.” He heaved a sigh tilting my head to look at him. “Mac I’m s-serious!”
“You were serious the last five times Dash, ah think y’all just need to calm down.” I glared up at him, taking a step back and flaring my wings. How could he be the one to take their side on this!
“I was, until they started going on about f-flowers, and and colour schemes and if the reception should be held at the f-farm, or sugar cube corner, or the castle, or on the m-moon all over again and again!” I flung my hooves in the air, trying to get my point across. “It’s like they're m-making it a wedding for them, and no matter what I say, t-they tell me that I’m not girly enough!”
“Ah’m sure they don’t tell you you're not girly , they just want you to have the best wedding, and ah just want to have one. Now, can we let them all carry on planning and not have a pitchfork wedding?” I frowned at him, I bet the whole thing would have been sorted perfectly by now if he’d been planning it … thats an idea! I grinned at him, as my rage became excitement.
“Stay here or in the house …. just don’t leave the farm.” I shot off back toward the girls, wiping my tears away. How hadn’t I thought of this before?
“I think thats it, so were all in agreement?” I didn’t bother to answer, and rested my head against Mac. This plan was brilliant, I brought the girls over to the farm and sat them down with Mac to go over all the plans, and he made sure his thoughts were known, and put his hoof down when he needed. I sat in silence throughout the entire discussion after having given up on the girls, Mac knew me all too well and together they all have our wedding planned.
“All thats left now … is the date?” I jumped up, looking at Mac as he looked down on me.
“Uh, we’ve been engaged for three months … do you want to be married now?” He smiled and nuzzled me slowly.
“Ah can wait as long as you need Dash, ah know that I’ll always be yours, now and in the future.” I blushed at his words, laying against him as the girls Aww ’ed in chorus. I shot them a glare, making them laugh.
“Your’re so cute together Rainbow darling, you can’t glare at us when you can’t see or hear us can you?” I frowned, do they stalk us all the time?
“Yeah! because we talk about how absolutely positively cute you are all the time Dashie!”
I felt Mac shake beneath me as he chuckled, I answered by shoving against him.
“Uch, I give up with you, you all act like fillies.” I yawned, forcing my eyes to stay open. Mac stood slowly, making sure my head never lost contact from him, proving difficult since I was still sitting down.
“Don’t worry Dash, we don’t talk about just you, and it’s only on the Spa trips Rarity insists on us having when you and Mac go out, we all talk about us all. Now since you're looking just about ready to crash I think we can finish up here right girls?” They nodded, each smiling and bidding goodbye before going their separate ways. I stood up, still leaning against Mac, sighing into his fur.
“Aww Dash you look dead, ah guess your regular napping has it’s reasons.” I shot her a glare as I walked forward, slowly so I didn’t fall.
“I fly all day so I get tired faster, and you guys haven’t given me a break so yes, I’m dead.” She laughed, tipping her hat toward me before heading out of the room, I could feel her giggles as she went.
“Ah’ll get Apple Bloom from Rarity’s, see y’all later.” I nodded, slowly walking out myself until Mac stood beside me, a small smile on his face.
“Ah know you can’t get up those stairs on your own like this, will ya let me help?” I smiled, leaning against him as we made our way up the stairs, the big lug knew me so well. He opened the door slowly, letting me stumble to the bed and flop down, I didn’t even lie properly. He climbed up on his side, his hoof pulling me into him.
“So, are you happy with the wedding?” I asked, slowly getting comfortable on the bed.
“Honestly, I’d be happy with anything that had you in the equation” I let out a soft yawn, resting my wing over his hoof and closing my eyes.
“You get sappy when you're tired Dash.” I made a lazy snort, too tired to talk as he pulled his hoof from under my wing and kissed my forehead, nuzzling his nose against mine gently before making his way from the room. I smiled letting sleep take me, sinking into Mac’s mattress.
I woke slowly stretching my hooves, the smell of food inviting me down the the Apple’s kitchen. I gave my eyes a quick wipe, making sure any signs of sleepiness were gone and yawning before I made my way from Mac’s room. I glanced back at the bed once, sad to leave the sleep behind, it was after all, a hobby of mine.
I made my way down the stairs, looking around for any sign of ponies before deciding that they were most likely all in the kitchen.
“Macintosh, go an get your fiancée from your bed before the food gets cold! Ah need to talk to her.”
I chuckled as I walked into the main room, granny really did amuse me, as I stepped through the door Mac walked from the kitchen, I managed to stop before I bumped into him grinning like a cheshire cat. I might even look crazy with my bed head and sleepy eyes.
“Ah’m glad you’re awake, I need some help with Granny.” I frowned, he needed my help with his family? That certainly wasn’t Mac.
“Help?”
“I’m sorry in advance for when she starts ranting at you.” He turned and walked back into the kitchen, leaving me even more confused. Shaking my head and holding it high I walked into the kitchen to see granny grinning at me.
“Ah here she is, ah need to you fill up for my great grand foals ya here, ah don’t need to skinny youngins running around the farm, an the bigger you are the more chance ah’ll get some earth pony’s, you pegasi cause enough trouble and ah can barely handle you. When are you gettin’ married, I want to be sure I get the invitation to the Apple family’s out in time.”
I stood still taking in the questions, panicking when she mentioned foals, I’m not ready for foals yet. No, definitely not ready for foals. One step at a time right?
“Uh well, I need to invite some ponies of my own, and there are two people I’d like Mac to meet before the wedding, I think we could hopefully decide on a date after he meets them.” I gave a small blush of embarrassment, how could I get married if my parents haven't met Mac? My wings twitched with the hope they’d like him.
“An who does he have to meet Dash?” AJ asked, tilting her head with confusion, she knew he’d met most if not all of my friends, and a few of my family members.
“Some close family I haven’t seen in a long time, I just need Twilight to get her charmed item for him to wear since they’re pegasi.” I shrugged trying to pass it off as a simple meet-up, her face wanted more of an explanation but I didn’t want to make the situation bringing up my parents when none of their parents were alive anymore. Mac just stared at me, since this was the first I’d mentioned of it.
“Come on, lets eat then we’ll head over to see Twilight, I’ll take you to see them tomorrow OK, i’ll call ahead so that they know where coming” He nodded, handing me an empty plate so we could all eat.
Once were were finished eating I leaned back satisfied, a grin on my face.
“Granny that was awesome, you’re the best cook ever.” Granny grinned. Her eyes sparkling as she looked at me.
“Years of practise, I’ll be sure to make you as good a cook, ah don’t want my grand-foal to go without.” I felt my heart-beat increase when she mentioned foals again, I took a deep breath and smiled, it would be better to stay quiet than get into an argument with Granny.
“Granny, ah don’t think that we’re ready for foals yet, we’re still planning the wedding after all.” I blushed lightly hearing the slight dawl in my voice, I must be spending too much time with the Apples. I let out a relieved sigh at her words, foals hadn’t been something we’d talked about much before. I nervously ran my hoof through my mane and smiled.
“Yeah, I um, I’m going to call my family.” I flapped my wings to leave the room sooner, hoping Mac saw my discomfort, rather than assuming that foals wasn’t in my future plans. I made my way upstairs so that nobody would see my message. I made it as brief as I could, wanting to explain to my parents everything in person. Guilt washed through my body, I hadn’t even told them about Mac, let alone that we were engaged. I took a deep breath, they know me well enough they’ll understand. I sealed it closed as I noticed Mac had entered the room.
“You OK?” I nodded and gave him a smile, waving the letter slightly between my hoof.
“Yup, I’ll get spike to make it an express delivery, heh.” He smiled, and walked to his bed, sitting to see me. He glanced at the door before clearing his throat.
“Ah’m sorry about Granny, ah know she makes you feel uncomfortable, she doesn’t realise sometimes.” I laughed it off, bumping my nose against his.
“It’s fine, a little awkward but nothin’ I can’t handle. She’s being Granny.” He chuckled, and rolled his eyes, putting his nose against mine.
“So, who’s the letter for?” I grinned, I’d had time to think how this was going to go.
“Some family I want you to meet, why are you worried?” He snorted at me, his lazy eyed look opening for a split second, and I couldn’t help but giggle at him, it always amused me when he did that.
“Dash.” He started, knowing he wanted this to be a serious talk.
“You’ll meet them soon, trust me Mac. I-I’m sure that you’ll like them, and I know they’ll think you're awesome, now I’ll go and deliver this.” I didn't give him time to answer before I had the letter in my mouth and was out of the window heading to the library. I didn’t rush the way there, I wanted to have time to think, besides I’d already had a LONG day with the girls, if they were at Twilight’s now I’d probably wait until they left.
I slowed as the large tree grew bigger in my sights, then began to lower myself getting in-line with the door to tap three times. I willed Spike to answer, dropping to the floor to give my wings a rest as I waited. I began to paw at the floor with impatience though it had barely been a minute before the door opened.
“Oh, hey Rainbow Dash, what can I do you for?” I handed him the letter, a small smile on my face.
“Actually, I was wondering if you would use your skills to get this on an express delivery.” He looked at the address and frowned.
“Uh, who’s it for.” I turned from him, spreading my wings, arching my head back to answer.
“My parents.” I flapped my wings, gliding back to Mac’s house, all I needed now was the enchanted cloud-walking hooflet.
I flew over Ponyville, the sun shining and the clouds perfectly arranged in the sky by myself and the other members of the Weather Team, soon passing over Sweet Apple Acres with a grin but shook my head to concentrate on my work, to make sure all the clouds were positioned correctly once I was done I headed strait toward town, though a voice stopped me from getting too far.
"Morning Rainbow, you seem awful happy" I flew down to greet her, not hiding my happiness.
"Hay Twilight, and you bet I am ... I got a date!" She looked briefly shocked but her happiness for me soon took over and she burst out with a rush of questions, though I couldn't hear a single word, I put my hoof over her mouth.
"I heard none of that Twi, but if you must know ... I gotta go and do something" I didn't give her chance to say anything more before I was flying strait up and into the clouds, I made sure she wouldn't be able to fly after me. I sat up in a cloud thinking about how I was going to tell AJ about this, soon I realized the cloud I was on slowly began to float closer the the farm. As soon as I saw my chance I flew down toward the barn. My nerves began to kick in as I walked into the barn, I looked around to see AJ moving some apples behind a few bales of hay.
"Hay ... AJ I need to tell you something" I shuffled my hooves nervously, but gave her a smile to try and hide it. She barley turned away from her work,obviously not expecting much.
"Go ahead Rainbow." I looked down before letting out a breath, she might not be looking at me but I knew as soon as she looks at me I'd run out on her.
"I think I might uh lo-like your brother and I'm going on a date with him" I let in a breath before i looked up the see her frozen on the spot, her eyes wide with shock, I braced myself for her reaction, standing just as still.
"Well, ah don't know what to say Rainbow, he's my brother 'n all but I ah an't control him ... I'm happy for you I just ... ah really didn't expect this." I let out my breath before I gave her a hug, at least she wasn't angry at me.
"I hope this won't make us awkward friends" I pulled back as she laughed and shook her head. Though I could still feel that it would be a little awekward.
"Na, we'll be sisters anyhow." I grinned, and took a step back. I raised my eyebrow at her, and gave a sheepish smirk.
"Well ... that would be a possibility-"
"Eeyup" We both jumped in surprise of Macs voice, I could feel my cheeks becoming red as AJ cleared her throat, she gave me a hard look then turned to him the same way..
"Well, I better get back to work, don't take too long. He's still got work to do..."