A month on Sweet Apple Acres

by KarmaDash

Rating: teen
Tags: Apple Bloom, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Rainbow Dash, Romance, Big Macintosh, Granny Smith, Applejack
Length: 13638

Rainbow Dash has lost a bet with Applejack, she now need to do a months worth of work on the farm.

Rainbow Dash has lost a bet with Applejack, she now need to do a months worth of work on the farm.

What can go wrong ... or right? A whole month stuck with the Apple's might not be as much fun as you think it will be. Follow Rainbow as she find out, just what farm life is like, in her case anyway.

Entry for: A disagreement of sorts.

*I was given permission to use this cover image by Yetioner*

Published 2013-12-19 22:00:02 UTC
Last updated 2013-12-19 22:00:02 UTC

-Main Story-

I lost a bet with Applejack, thats how I got myself into this mess, helping around the farm for a whole month! I glared at the barn door, seeing the rusty hinges made me more angry,I bet I’d have to fix them. I kicked the floor, before sitting down, oh yeah also part of the bet … no flying. And to top it all off, it was working with her brother, who had to be the most boring pony in all of Ponyville. I tapped my hooves on the floor, waiting for him to give me my tasks. I stretched my wings, needing to move them, snorting. Normally I would have flown, but she has eyes everywhere on this farm, and I don’t want to spend any more time here than I need to. After what seemed like way too long he walked in, not even offering an apology for making me wait.

“So what tasks have your sister set me? Is it a lot?” I asked, my voice laced with annoyance as he stared at me.

“Eeyup” Oh yeah, I forgot, he only has the ability to say two words. I peeled myself from the floor, waiting for him to attempt to say anymore. Nothing came, so I huffed and walked outside of the barn. He followed me, his stare turning into a frown.

“What?” He pointed behind me and I turned to see he was pointing at the chickens, I let out my breath, turning back toward him.

“I guess you need me to feed them?” I then turned to him, and sarcastically added “Anything else?

“Eeyup” I groaned, flapping my wings, before remembering I wasn’t allowed to fly. I started to walk to the coop slowly, dragging my hooves a little on the ground. I heard a small snort behind me, and his hooves becoming quieter, as he moved onto his tasks. I turned to glare at the back of his head. I’ll show him, I’ll get this done in ten seconds flat. I raised my head heading proudly toward the chicken coop, this was going to be easy.

I walked in, and looked for their bird seed, seeing that were were eggs in the nest and an empty basket, I guessed that I also had to collect them. Making my way to the other end of the coop, I found a sack of the seed, as realising that all the chickens were gathered around my hooves. I flared my wings up in warning, there was no way I was going to make a fool out of myself. They backed off a little, giving me chance the throw the seed away from me. I went back along the nest collecting all the eggs into the basket, and leaving the coop. Making sure it was locked, I strutted to Mac putting the eggs in front of him.

“Next” I said, in a challenging tone, a small smile lingering on my lips. He looked at the basket, to me, to the coop and back to me again. A small smile played on his lips as he gave me a list. I looked down at it, before quickly looking up at him.

“You want me to do all of that!” I didn’t even wait for him to answer before I stormed off to do the first task. AJ was really really enjoying this.

I walked slowly back to the house, my whole body ached. I made sure that every single thing on the list has been done, including, the small section titled. “If you're up to the challenge” before tossing the paper into the bin, even if she’d written -Love AJ at the bottom, it didn’t make this any more enjoyable. I rolled my neck hearing a few soft clicks, I carried on walking, no matter how much my hooves hurt by now. When I neared the house, I heard their lunch time bell ring. Granny waiting outside giving me a small smile, I walked up the steps unable to stop small wince that spang from the pain in my hooves.

“Is AJ back, or Mac?” She shook her head, and pointed at the house.

“But I-” She gave me a hard look, I let out a little of my breath, walking into the house I managed not to wince. I waited just inside her hallway.

“Come with my child.” Was all she said, so I followed her. I looked at her confused she she pointed to the dinner table. I blinked, was she offering me to have lunch with them.

“Granny ah’m home!” I stood awkwardly in front of the table, forcing myself not to move and hurt my hooves any further. Granny looked at me, a stern look upon her face.

"Welcome back dear, Rainbow please /take a seat/" The last few words sounded more like a command than a suggestion, I quickly sat down, and looked as AJ walked in. I looked to see if Apple Bloom was coming.

"So, how was work today Rainbow?" She asked, a menacing smiled on her face, she sat down and placed her hat on the table, before glancing at Granny and putting it back in her head.
"Sorry Granny, ah almost forgot. Apple Bloom is staying with Sweetie Bell tonight too."

“Actually I finished everything on the list you gave me.” Her mouth dropped as she stared at me, I added some food onto my plate, smiling triumphantly.

“You’re telling me that ya’ll did almost all my chores before lunch.” I grinned at her, before she started to laugh.
“Ah bet you used your wings, there are ponies ah can ask so don’t even bother to lie to me Rainbow Dash”

“Hey I didn’t use my wings, I did everything you stated in the bet!” She stared at me, her dis-belief written all over her face.

“She’s telling the truth AppleJack” I jumped in surprise, looking up I saw Mac had entered, so he could say more than one word then!

“But ah though, how did you?” I shrugged, taking a bite of the first thing on my plate, my mouth watering. I had to say, Granny was one of the best cooks I’ve ever come across. This was certainly the only part I can look forward to for the next month.

“Applejack you worked the girl too hard!” I looked up at Grannys sudden outburst. I tilted my head in confusion.

“Ah didn’t do anything, Macintosh was making sure she was doing it.” She turned her fiery gaze toward the red stallion, who looked up terrified.

“Look at what you done to the poor girl!” I blinked, my mouth opening and closing similar to that of a fish. He glanced at me and Granny, as confused as I am.

“The girl’s been on her hooves all day look at them! AJ you know better than to tell her she can’t fly. Rainbow dear show them your hooves.” I blinked, as both AJ and Mac looked at me, their terrified faces waiting for my to list my hooves, I stared at Granny and slowly lifter my hooves to show each of them.

“What so wrong my my hooves? They’ve been a little sore but they’re fine … right?” Mac became expressionless again, as AJ lifter her hoof to her mouth. Granny got up, heading to a small table I didn’t see when I first came in, she brought a small pot with her.

“Rainbow, did you actually look at your hooves?” I shook my head before looking down at my hooves I jumped up. They were red, even more so than Mac himself, I bit on my lip as pain shot through my hind legs, the re-contact with the floor causing them the rub against the wood. I quickly got back on the chair, taking a deep breath. I looked back toward Granny as she waved the pot.

"This should help, it'll be gone by tomorrow" I nodded, as she walked around the table, about to touch my hooves I flinched away.

“Sorry, do you mind if I put it on, I just really don’t like other ponies touching my hooves” She nodded setting the pot on the table. I dipped my hooved into it, the cold cream soothing them.

“Ah’m sorry Rainbow, If I had known-” I held up my soothing hoof, silencing her mid sentence.

“You didn’t know, I’ve never really been on the ground much before where I’ve done as much work, I didn’t even realise until Granny pointed it out, calm down OK?” I lowered my hoof, putting the cream on my hind hooves, sitting in bliss.

“Ah’m sorry to Rainbow, ah shouldn’t have made you do so much work on your first day” I opened one eye looking at Mac, I gave a small now. I still didn’t particularly like this guy. But at least he did apologise, there are too many stallions out there that wouldn’t give a buck.

The rest of lunch went well, AJ filled me in on her month of plans with Soarin’ which caused Mac to sit in a grumpy silence throughout the whole meal that amused me, while Granny thanked me for staying. I walked down the steps of the house, now it only felt uncomfortable to be on my hooves, i stood at the bottom as AJ came down to say her goodbyes.

“Ah’m changed the no flying to mostly no flying, I don’t want that to happen again … ah’ve heard stories about pegasi that do real damage to their hooves if it happen too much.” I nodded and hugged her.

“”I’ll be fine, it takes more than sore hooves to stop this pony being awesome. I can fly home can’t I” I teased giving them a long stretch. She laughed waving her hoof at me.

“See you tomorrow Rainbow.” She headed back into her house as I flew up.

“Goodnight AJ, GOODNIGHT GRANNY!” I yelled into the house so she could hear me, though I still didn’t like Mac enough to mention him.

As soon as the wind picked up a large smile crept across my face, oh how much had I missed flying, I did a few small tricks the rush making the day much cooler. Soon, I landed on my house, as the tired spell hit me. Yawning I headed to bed, a full stomach and all my energy used up a long sleep would be perfect, that was one thing AJ didn’t make a rule, the time I had to start working. Laying down on the fluffy cloud, I pulled one equally as comfortable over myself and closed my eyes. I welcomed the sleeps dark embrace, drifting off into the void of dreams.

The next week

I woke up early, looking out of my window all I could see was the sun starting to rise. I groaned, the more work I was doing the earlier I slept … the earlier I woke. I trotted toward my bathroom, I needed a good shower, the newly fallen snow wasn’t enough to keep the dirt from my fur. Though winter, and the run up to Hearth’s Warming was in full swing, I still had my promise to fulfill, even if the season was making me work harder so everything was ready for after the winter wrap-up. Due to the snow on the ground, it was much easier for me to not use my wings. It cooled them down before they could become sore, but brought more problems of my hooves actually get cold. Even though I was wearing boots (That Rarity insisted I wear) it bothered me, working in it is not nearly as fun as creating it.

I stepped out of the shower, wrapping myself in a towel I dried myself off, leaving my mane and tail a little damp. I flew into my room, and gave both my mane and tail a brush, getting out and last drops of water, as it fell into its usual messy style. Yawning, I put the town with the other wet towels, I’d clean them eventually, 3 weeks to be exact. After giving my wings a good stretch and put on my boots, preparing myself to the workload to come.

The flight to Sour Apple Acres as I now liked to call it was short. I no longer wasted energy of flying tricks, it would only make the day that much worse. As soon as the large barn was in sight I slowed down, seeing the red pony waiting outside I huffed, he’d annoyed me the whole past week, not because he was giving me less work, that he definitely didn’t do, it was more to do with any time I tried to talk to him, he’d shut down and purposely find more work. If I didn’t like him before, by now he just made me feel like I was a simple pony working for him, who wasn’t worthy of any of his time, or effort. The only time I’d hear him say more than a word was when he was talking to his family.

“Morning” Was all I‘d say to him now, if he didn’t want to make an effort why should I? Even if his company made me … happy? I ignored the through, and looked up at him. He nodded giving me my daily list. I stared at it, only three things … three!

“Whoa, why is my list so shot, what don’t you think I can handle this time!” I glared at him, he just shrugged, before shocking me.

“Snow means less work for us all, you still got tough jobs” I blinked at him, as he smiled and strutted away ready to do his own work. I closed my mouth, not realising it had been open until it felt dry.His voice was soft and warm … something about it sent tingles up my spine.I shook my head, trying to concentrate at the tasks. He was a mean, non-talkative boring pony that for the whole week only made lise as hard as it could be.

Rainbow

Clean the chicken coop, and fix the winter protection.

Fix barn door (Again)

Help Mac with some Christmas stuff (He knows what he’s doing)

Lots of love AJ xxx

P.S I’m going out with Soarin’ so I won’t be at lunch

Ok, chicken coop, door, Mac … who spoke to me. I started to walk toward the coop, was he trying to mess with me? Was this some kind of joke? No he’s not a joke-y person is he? I shook the thought from my head, trying my best to concentrate on the task I had to do. I made sure that the chickens were spotless, this past week we’d had a mutual bond, they stay in the corner and get food for it. I left them to eat, grabbing the eggs on my way out. I put the basket down on the snow and looked at the winter cover. It needed a new one, that didn’t have holes. I sighed, better go and see if Mac knows where they are kept … I should fix the barn door first.

I yawned, trotting toward the barn and all the tools I needed to fit the door again, this had to be my least favorite job. They practically needed a new barn with all the problems it has, but they don’t have the money for repairs, even if I offered to help out AJ flat out refused any of it. The amount of times I’d fixed it, i’, sure I could do it with my eyes closed buy now. I took a step back to make sure I was OK with the work done.

I nodded in satisfaction, ready to go and find Macintosh. I followed the prints left in the snow from earlier, his hooves were large, he was large and muscular. He has a soft voice, he’s kind, loyal, honest … wait what am I doing? Was I just complimenting him. I shook my head, glaring at the hoof prints in the snow, this was stupid. It was stupid, was I starting to like him? I saw him putting the last of the cows into their home, ready for the harsh cold weather to come. I watched his muscles move beneath his fur, before forcing myself not to stare.

“Hey Macintosh, you need a new cover for the chicken cool” He sigh’d and turned to me shaking his head.

“What, the one you’ve got has holes in it, it won’t do the proper job, I don’t mind buying-”

“Nope” He face was stern, as he stared me down, I raised an eyebrow. I looked up at his green eyes, and how they sparkled, I mentally shook the thought from my head stupid inappropriate thoughts..

“You can’t stop me if I want to help AJ out!” He looked at me, before shaking his head irritatedly, i’m sure he even gave his hoof a small stomp. I glared at him.

“Ah can’t let you do that miss RainbowDash, this is ma family's farm, and we get by just fine.” I stared at him, blinking. He really does have a nice voice. Wait he spoke again, a full long sentence too. I got over the shock of him talking, ignoring the bells in my head, even if I found the voice soothing … too soothing, oh Celestia what was wrong with me?

“Don’t call me miss Dash, it’s stupid, just Rainbow or Dash will do” I stood proudly, giving my wings a small shake.

“OK miss Dash” I groaned, thrown my hooves up in the air. Glaring at him again, which caused him to smile. He mane my name sound so soft, not like it was supposed to sound.

“Don’t laugh at me, fine, next on the list was to help you...” His smile faltered, before he nodded, looking up at the sky he sighed. He looked like he wasn’t happy about this.

“Hearths warming decorations” I blinked, he needed help with them? It has to be more than that. I grinned inwardly, we get to spend time together .. wait, what am I saying.

“Just that, really?” I asked putting myself off. He shook his head, and began to walk away.

“Nope, you’ll see” Snorting I followed him, all the way back to the house, seeing Granny on her rocking chair on the front porch.

“Hello dear, oh is Rainbow Dash helping you with the decorations?” He nodded not making a sound as Granny grinned at me. I frowned a little before sighing and following him into the house. I watched as he began to push a few boxes to the top of the stairs.

“Whoa don’t push them down, permission to use my wings?” I asked, a hint of sharcasm in my voice, he blinked at me, before nodding, his eyes not leaving me I fought the blush I felt rising to my cheeks. I flew up, lifting the box a little I hovered it down the stairs, making sure nothing and nopony got hurt. I then let it go, for it to make a small clapping sound against the floor. I grinned up at him.

“Next” I added, waving my hooves at the boxed behind him, he blinked and shook his head, his cheeks becoming darker. Why did he just blush? I frowned, he must be playing a game with him … hm well two can play at that game! Wait …. a game of blushing, I must be crazy! I zoomed back and fore, using my wings less each time as I eased the boxed down the stairs, soon enough they were all on the floor as a llittle filly gasp almost made me jump out of my skin.

“Aww Granny can ah help with the decoration this year?” Apple Bloom began to dance around the boxes. Her bow bouncing on her hair.

“No, you know you're too little to do it, thats why ah’m having Rainbow Dash help Macintosh with them.” I st/opped dead, my eyes wide as she smiled widely at me. She was the one the set this up … why?

“But I-” She cut me off, her voice commanding, making me feel scared. How could a pony as old as her, make me scared… thats right, Granny has that as her other special talent.

“Don’t even try to get out of it missy, ya’ll helped around the farm for a week, and before the winter it’s more work than we usually need to have done. This is what you can do for the rest of the time. Thats why ah insisted that Applejack put you helpin’ Macintosh on that list of yours.” I blinked, baffled by her reasoning. This wasn’t a punishement?

“Now come along, I want to hear more about that bet that Applejack gave you” I laughed nervously and followed her into the main room, wondering where to start. I sat down on the chair, looking directly at her.

“Well, what do you want to know about it?” She smiled at me, tapping her walking stick a few times.

“Everything, you might be a little over the top but you keep AJ on her hooves, and she needs that, but ah was wondering on exactly how you managed to lose a bet with this, as your condition?”

I groaned, but proceeded. “Well we were doing some dares, and then when we decided it was boring … we started to do more dares where if we couldn't the other would have to do something. We slowly started to forget about the dares and just make bets. I lost on the final round.” Granny started to laugh, before tapping her hoof on her knee.

“Well, what was the final bet?” I stared down at the floor. Feeling like the whole thing was stupid.

“She bet that I couldn't let anypony touch my hooves. I know it’s really stupid, I just have a slight problem with them being touched.” Granny smiled, she took her walking stick in her hoof and walked toward me.

“Ah like you Rainbow Dash, don’t be a stranger after this is all over” I nodded as she left the room, heading back out toward her rocking chair, I walked into the hall, to see the boxes lined up, with week number written on them.

“It takes you three weeks to decorate?” he nodded, putting some stuff on his back and heading out, I picked up some stuff myself and followed him, this was going to be one long night.

I lay on a bail of hay, exhausted after all the decorating. I looked at the front of the house, the lights weren’t on, but I knew they’d look beautiful when the time came.I smiled at my handy work the roof was amazing, and entirely mine since I had wings to get up there.

“Wow Rainbow, this looks so cool ah bet Scootaloo is gonna’ love it” I grinned down at Apple Bloom, and mussed up her hair.

“Thanks, but don’t you think its time you went to bed?” She was about to protest before a sound came from the house, and she huffed walking toward the house.

“Goodnight Rainbow dash.” She turned and waved at me by the door, before trotting inside.

“Goodnight kid” I replied, a small smile still on my lips. That was until I saw Mac, I glared at him, he completely shut down again while we were decoration and every time I went to get something he’d take it, almost as If he knew it was annoying me. It made me more angry since it was like being at flight school again. I refused to move even as he got closer. The heat of his body sent more tingles up my spine, and I fought off the feeling.

“What do you want?” I asked, hearing the venom on my every word. He rolled his eyes at me, before smiling. His eyes shone as he looked at me, he was obviously pleased with himself.

“Cider?” I frowned at him, waiting for him to laugh and walk away but he didn’t, I sighed and cautiously followed him, not sure is he was being genuine, or just, well I don’t know. Granny stood by the barrel, holding out a cup for me.

“You deserved it, nobody else can put up with decorating with him.” I laughed a little, I took the cup and took a sip, instantly loving the feeling as the cool liquid left the all too familiar burns in my throat. I moaned into the cup, loving how it made my worries disappear.

“Wow, this is some of the best cider i’ve ever had.” Granny grinned at me, taking her own cup and sitting in the corner.

“Thats because it’s stronger, one cup of that is like three of the weaker brand AJ makes ya’ll” I stared at her, three was my limit of AJ’s so I could fly home, I can’t be rude and not finish it can I?

“Oh, um, you wouldn’t mind if I don't finish do you, I still want to make sure I can fly home ...” She scowled at me, and I blinked.

“Nonsense, ah’m sure AJ would let you use the spare room, drink up. It’s only the four of us that can handle this strength anyhow.” I raised an eyebrow.

“Four?”

“AJ, myself, you and Macintosh, he wouldn’t make it unless he couldn’t drink it.” I looked up to see he had a cider mug full of the stuff in his mouth drinking it thoroughly.

“Can only drink the stronger stuff eh?” I asked, he nodded, sitting down, and taking another long gulp. He avoided looking at me, as I took another mouthful of my own, I felt it go straight to my head and I loved it.

“Mac, you know that your annoying right, like really annoying.” He turned to look at me since we started drinking and raised an eyebrow at me

“Are you really tipsy from that small amount?”He teased I shrugged, finishing the rest of my cup, and getting up to fill to again. It I was going to drink I would do it properly with good cider. I drank more, and more before I knew it I was in a fit of uncontrollable giggles in my chair. Granny herself had a few laughs with us.

“Alright, I’ll leave you two youngins alone now, make sure to stay quiet because Apple Blooms still in bed” I put my hoof against my lips and whispered a shh.

“G’night Granny” Macintosh slurred, sitting on the floor next to the barrel. She gave a short laugh heading up the stairs, as me and Mac started to laugh at each other.

“Y know Mac, I wanted to know, why you always stay so quiet?” I hicced between my words, but I managed to get all the words out. He was about to answer when the front door was closed, in an attempt of being quiet. A giddy Applejack walked in, a grin on her face that fell when she saw the drink ponies in front of her.

“What in tarnation?” I giggled, and pointed at her.

“What did you do with Soarin’ tonight, also your cider sucks.” I giggled again as she took a small step back, blushing.

“Ah, well … he’s ma coltfriend now” Mac stood up quickly, I guess that just sobered him up considerable. They both stood staring at eachother. I looked at Mac and how he stood, even drunk he was a sight, muscular but not too much that perfect balance I liked, and his mane looked really soft like I could sleep in it as if it was a cloud, I frowned inwardly, stupid thoughts of how hot he was. His loyalty was amazing, he’d do anything for his family, and he was nice when it suited him, though I bet he was just being mean to bug me. Oh celestia help me, I’m complimenting him, more than just his looks too, he’s AJ’s brother stop it, and he’s he’s … Oh Macintosh you're so handsome. I felt the pomf my wings made, but it stopped soon, the alcohol having full effect.

“Ah’m what now?” I looked up from my thoughts, did I say that out lough, oh no. No I didn’t did I? They both stared at me, I just stayed silent, pretending nothing happened. I looked into my cup, and drank what was left, I refused to look up.

“So, now you have a colt friend, took ya long enough” I tried to put the focus back on AJ, but I could feel they were both still staring at me, I giggled nervously trying to stand up, still partially looking at the floor.

“I better go to bed, you need your brother sister talky right?” I stumbled forward a little, my legs feeling like jelly. I dragged my hooves lower the chances of falling. It didn’t work out, I ended up tripping and landing face first into Mac’s shoulder. I looked up and frowned at him, refusing to let his eyes suck me in … as much as I wanted.

“Stupid red wall!” AJ started laughing, before nudging my side.

“Come on Rainbow, I better get you to bed” I leaned into her, walking away from my red wall, and up the stairs into her spare room.

The next morning

I woke up with my head pounding lightly, groaning into my hooved I rolled over to see I wasn’t in my own bed. The memories of last night flooded into my head, anything after my third cup of that Cider was gone. Maybe that was when I came to bed? I blinked, and shook, giving my wings a small stretch. I got out of bed and made my way to the stairs, the smell of breakfast hitting me on my way. I lifted my muzzle to the air taking a deep breath before heading toward the kitchen. When I walked in all heads turned my way, only one of those ponies happened to be smiling, Apple Bloom.

“Morning everypony” They continued to stare, and I just stood in the doorway.

“Good morning Rainbow Dash” Apple Bloom said, before getting up and going, wow, this whole family wakes up to work way too early. I stayed standing, wondering what was wrong. Oh, what did I do drunk oh celestia save me before I combust into flames.

“How did I get into bad last night, I remember nothing after my third cup of cider” I took a small step into the room, and sat on the chair on the opposite side they were on. I laid my head in front of me.

“Come on, what did I do … oh please don’t tell me I made a fool of myself.” I lifted my head to see both Granny and Applejack trying to hold in their laughter while Mac sat straight faced. Slowly I raised my hooves over my face.

“Sweet Celestia somebody tell me what I did” Applejack started to giggle, I moved my hooves to look her her to see Granny now standing up, she patted me on the shoulder before walking from the room.

“Don’t worry Rainbow, ah’m sure Applejack might tell you what happened.” I frowned at her then realised she was out with Soarin’

“Before that I want to know how your date went” I grinned at her, and her laugh turned into a wide eyed look of horror.

“Well, ah um, we um” I laughed, tapping my hoof against the table. She sat blushing, so I took it as a good sign, maybe he finally asked her out … no … no because that would mean I’d be the last one of us single. What am I saying, of course I am. Twilight has Flash, Pinkie has Caramel, Fluttershy has Braeburn and Rarity has just started dating Thunderlane just like AJ has Soarin’. I sighed, standing up.

“I’m happy for you AJ don’t worry, you’ve been dating him … like 5 month now, it was about time he asked you out properly … he did didn’t he?” She nodded, biting her bottom lip. She blushed at me before frowning.

“Are you Ok Rainbow, you look so sad all of a sudden” I shrugged, taking some of the food, to keep me busy. Is there really a pony out there for me? I swallowed my food, licking the last of the taste from my lips.

“Sooo, what happened to me last night” AJ shrugged, getting up she patted me on the shoulder.

“Don’t worry, you still have work to do today. Macintosh, you better decorate properly, last your it was horrid.” I chuckled, he didn’t seem like the kind of pony that like the look of pretty things, maybe he’s just used to the dirt. I looked at him raising an eyebrow. He nodded at Applejack and carried on eating. Blanking me again.

“Why don’t you just talk!” I stood up slamming my hooves on the floor, AJ stood beside me I felt her gasping. He stared at me, shocked by my sudden outburst, I guess I’d really had enough, he opened his mouth and closed it again.

“What did I ever do to you, you're the one that blanks me and never talks, you're the one the shuts me out when I even try to talk to you, you're the one that always works alone. Every time I try to be your friend for Applejacks sake you just shoot me down, what did I ever do wrong! I’ve done nothing but do as asked and help this entire week!” I punched out every last work, letting out all my thoughts, AJ stood silent as he took in all of my words. After a little while I snorted, and walked out of the room. What was it about him that made me this mad? Shouldn’t I be happy I don’t need to make an effort with somepony that doesn’t deserve me.

“I guess I’ll have to give you the other two weeks another time when he’s not around to make me feel useless, I’m too, I’m too awesome to be around a nopony like him.” I flew from the farm as fast as I could, ignoring all the hang-over effects that wanted me to stop and throw up. When I got closer to my home I decide to kick some clouds, getting out all the anger I’d built up. He’s a stupid pony, he should be lucky that I even wanted to speak to him, I wonder how AJ does it. Kicking the last cloud near my house I started to calm down, flying into my house I realised what was a better time then now to clean up a little. Cleaning up everything, I decided to take a nap, the tired feeling forcing me into bed.

“RAINBOW DASH GET YOUR FLANK DOWN HERE NOW!” I woke to hear shouting from below my house. I walked to my window, and looked below, wiping the sleep from my eyes. I saw an orange pony with a red face looking up. I sighed, taking a deep breath, I flew down to see her. She stood watching me, as I got closer I could make out she’d been crying.

“What happened to you?” I landed in front of her as she pulled me into a hug, before she pushed me away and started to swing her hooves at me. I flew upward shocked.

“You stupid rainbow pegasus, he’s leaving because of you!”

“How is that my fault, he’ the one that was-”

“Not because of that! Uh why are you both so stupid, ah give up with you both, neither of you can admit it! You're just lucky he’s going for a week, or else ah’d be bucking the cutiemark from your flank.” I blinked why were we stupid, he’s the stupid one.

“Why am I stupid?” I waved my hooved in the air irritated that I was getting the blame for this.

“Like ah said, ah give up. Now you better help me decorate, you still own me two weeks!” I hung my head heaving a deep sigh, I guess I better do some work. Though I was still angry with him.

Five days later

I finished the last of todays tasks, I only have a week left, and I was glad that I’d be able to go back to how life used to be, flying all the time, though I’d know better than to make bets with Applejack anymore. I frowned, still annoyed that she’s managed to do this to me. I trotted toward the house and sat down, the cool wood cooling me down.

I tapped my hooves on the wooden steps of the Apples house, thinking. These past few days have been really weird, I was bored, I was lonely and I missed Macintosh, and that annoyed me too. I brought my hooves to my face, rubbing them down my eyes. I’d been waiting here for a little while since AJ rushed into the house with a letter before I’d started my last task. I weighed the option in my head and finally decided to go in, now able to hear AJ speaking.

“Oh Granny what can ah do, he said he won’t come back until she’s gone because he can’t face her yet, ah know it’s hard be he ain’t a chicken, or one to back down. Ah know that ah shouldn't blame Rainbow but is we never stated those bets” I frowned, what was she talking about?

“Listen to me Applejack, nobody grows feelings like that in a short space of time, ah bet he’s liked her for a while.” I froze, right outside the door, he likes me, me. Wit somepony like me, wait Macintosh is that pony.I felt my heart begin to race but I stayed where I was hoping that they’d talk more, I jumped a little hearing Apple Bloom with them.

“Ah think that Rainbow like him too, she’s been awful sad doing her chores lately, ah don’t think the snow is helping” I don’t like Macintosh! I forced myself not to stomp at what Apple Bloom said.

“Ah believe you sis, we’ve all talked about what she said when she was drunk” I knew it, I did do something … wait what did I do? I thought long and hard as the sound of them talking just became a small buzzing in my ears. Drinking, talking, laughing … wait he did speak to me, and he laughed at my bad drunk jokes. I felt the heat rising to my cheek the harder I thought, AJ came in, and I looked at him, he was cute … handsome. I said it out loud! Oh no, thats why they think I like him I don’t. Do I. I panicked, and backed out of the house, I paced in front of it, back and forth thinking it over. The more I thought, the more I realised it was true … oh great!

“Oh Celestia I think I love with Big Macintosh.” The sound of three gasps caused me so spin around wide eyes at the Apple mares stood before me. I lost all the breath I had in my lungs, as Granny began to grin.

I wanted to shrivel up right then, fade away but I had no such luck, instead I was stuck with their happy faces.

“I um ...” I blushed embarrassed, I finally admitted to myself how I felt for his family to hear me saying it. I rubbed my hoof into the ground before flapping my wings.

“I really need to go” I started to fly up, turning away I heard AJ shout after me.

“He’s staying with Braeburn!” I took a deep breath before heading in the one place I needed to go, straight to him. I had to make sure these feelings were right, and that he felt them too. I look long deep breaths as I flew to Appleloosa.

A few hours later

I huffed, I’d been flying for a long time and it has started taking its toll, I landed as soon as Appleloosa was in view. I tucked my wings by my side and took another deep breath, not knowing what I was going to do once I saw him.

I quickened my pace to find BraeBurn walking past smiling at a letter. I chuckles, I bet it was from Fluttershy

“BREABURN!” He turned smiling at me, before his smiled stopped, and he stuffed the letter under his hat.

“Howdy miss Dash” He walked toward me slowly, I bet he’d been told how Mac felt about me. I felt a little giddy about that thought.

“Um hey, have you seen Mac around?” I bounced lightly on my heels, trying to sound as cool and calm as I could. He nodded tipping his hat at me.

“Yeah, if you wait here for a minute he’ll be sure to pass.”

“Thanks Braeburn, I’ll be sure to let Fluttershy know you helped me” He blushed lightly,before smiling and walking away, taking the letter from his hat and carrying on his way.

I stood waiting, thinking about what I was going to do when I actually was him, what would I say … should I apologise? Before long I was passing, a small dip in a straight line of where I’d been walking back and fore. Was this really love? What is love? Am I too young to even think of love?

I sat down and facehoofed, this is so stupid, why was I even here? I frowned at how quick this had happened, and how stupid I was to deny it, even if i didn’t realise it.

Soon, I saw him walk past, he looked … depressed, his usually clean red fur was covered in dust and looked a little matted, his eyes drooped a lot more than they usually do. He pulled a cart with ease, but it looked more mechanical than like when he was at the farm. I winced, this really was all my fault. I flew toward him, having no idea about what to say or do. My shadow washed over his face, he looked up at my his droopy eyes unfocused. He blinked, life rushing into them.

“Rainbow?” I flew to his level, my eyes never leaving hia, as the words I said froze me in front of him.

“Kiss me.” His eyes widened, I couldn't’ tell what he was thinking for feeling. I’d made a fool out of myself, stupid me, I couldn't stop myself saying it before I had. I closed my eyes, bracing myself for the flight back before something soft and warm touched my cheek. I opened my eyes, as he pulled back, a deep red make spreading across his cheeks. A newfound boldness, krept inside of me as I looked into his eyes. This definitely wasn’t rejection.

“No silly, kiss me” I depended, slowly leaning forward closing my eyes. I heard him take a deep breath before his lips touched mine. A sensation washed over my, as I felt my wings pop. I opened my eyes, to see her was opening his too. I felt the deep blush wash across my face.

“That was-”

“-Awesome” I finished, smiling brightly at him. He smiled back, then frowned.

“Wait … why are you here? Was this just a game for you.” I pointed at my wings irritatedly.

“They don’t normally do that ya’ know … I’m here to bring you home.” He tilted his head, seemingly confused. He started at my cheeks then back to me.

“Blushing suit you.” I bit my lip, the compliment making my face a deeper shade or red that caused him to grin.

“So, um, will you come back with me?” He rubbed the back of his mane, the smile still on his face.

“Ah guess I should get back, now that .. um .. what are we?” I sat down, and looked up at him with a shrug, I didn’t even know what to call us. We hated each other, I liked him, we kissed … now this.

“I … I don’t know, um, doesn’t the stallion make the calls?” We both started at each other, obvious this was new.

“How about ah take you on a date, and we go from there?” I nodded, smiling at him, before looking back at the wings that were stuck in place. I cleared my throat before pulling them in, as well as pushing with my hooves, until they were folded neatly against me.

“So … how will we get back, I don’t think I can fly all that way again, especially if you're walking.” He laughed, shaking his head and walking off with the cart leaving me sat on the floor. I glared at the back of his head before trotting up to him. I guess thinking he’d walk all that way was stupid.

“That Rainbow, is a train.” I looked up at him unamused, I knew what a train was, and what it was for.

“Well then, you go finish up and I’ll be waiting at the station.” I walked past him, brushing my tail under his chin. After a few soft flaps I was half way toward the station when I saw Braeburn again.

“Hello again Braeburn” he smiled at me, tipping his hat once again.

“Howdy Rainbow, you find Mcintosh?” He winked at me, how did he know? Or did he just guess?

“Yeah, I’m bringing him back to the farm, his family needs him.” I smiled, giving my wings a small stretch.

“You sure that the only thing you're taking him back for?” He grinned, causing me to blush faintly. The hat on his head tilting back a little.

“Nope, but I’ll let him tell you that, I guess I’ll see you when you next come to visit Fluttershy?” He nodded and carried on his way whistling a small tune. I flew the last leg of the journey to the station, sitting on a bench I gave a yawn, all my energy depleted on the journey here. My eyes drooped as I waited. and soon I had my head resting on the edge of the bench, barely able to keep my eyes open. I sat up a little at the sound of hooves against the wooden floor. A large mass mass moved toward me in a blur. I blinked, making the blur its actual shape.

“You look tired.” I yawned shaking my head, before standing up having another stretch.

“No, i’m always full of energy.” he rolled his eyes at me, before holing up two tickets.

“OK, ah guess we better go home now.” I walked with him onto the train, fining some seats away from other ponies. I yawned again as I stood beside them.

“Rainbow, now ah know were not sure where this is going, but please tell me the truth, are ya tired?”

I nodded, heaving a sigh. Tiredness made me feel weak. He gave me a soft smile, sitting by the window he waiting for me to get onto my seat, once I did I leant back ready to fall asleep until he pulled me into him, I looked up confused until I realised he wanted me to sleep on him.

“Are you sure ...” He nodded, shuffling across toward the window. I laid my head against him, to tired to argue about it, I nuzzled into his fur, it was so warm and soft, softer than I thought it would be. I took a long inhale, the sweet smell of apples washing over me. I Closed my eyes, the sleep forcing me to let it come.

I woke to the sound of a deep voice in my ear, I yawned like a cat, before shaking my head and trying to go back to sleep. A soft chuckle shook my body, I woke and glared up at whoever was disturbing me. I saw Mac grinning at me, with his eyebrows arched.

“Afternoon Dash.” I grumbled sitting up, fighting of the blush before groaning. A small twinge in my neck telling me I slept in an awkward position.

“Uch, I should never have slept on you, my neck feels so stiff” I rubbed at it softly, before standing up, getting a full body stretch - much less catlike - before looking out of the window.

“Were at Ponyville already?” He nodded, yawning, before standing up himself.

“Come on, ah bet they’re waiting.” I trotted toward the doors,squinting at the sunlight. After a few rapid blinks I flew into the air, doing some small and simple tricks to wake myself up. I landed beside him, raising an eyebrow.

“Well, I guess I better walk with you, you’d never catch up to me flying.” I grinned, folding my wings against me. He rolled his eyes, before walking the quickest route to the farm. I followed beside him, not sure of what to say. Now we be the perfect time to talk, I glanced at him, as he made no indication that he would talk. I sighed, handling my head a little. With the silence boring me I decided to break the ice.

“What made you decide to kiss me? I want the full story, I don’t care if you’d prefer not to talk” He stopped dead in his tracks, turning to me. He took a deep breath, before pointing at a log on the side of the road, and sitting on it. I sat beside him, ready to hear what he had to say.

“Well, when ya’ll first started working here, all I knew of you was they you boasted about everything, though you were better than everypony else, but when you worked you put your all into it, to prove a point maybe I don’t know … ” I grinned nodding, I did want to prove to him that I could do what he did, possibly even better than him.

“So the more time ah spent with you, the more ah liked how you actually act when you're not performing a show, then ah began to admire you, then this.” I blushed again, getting a little annoyed with the feminine acts. He raised his eyes brow at me.

“What?” He chuckled before leaving back.

“Why did you asked to be kissed?”

“Well, the more time I spent with you, the more that I realised you weren’t the boring pony I thought that you were, you were kind and loyal even if you not speak annoyed me so much, and the fact that I was attracted you your body.” I rushed the last part, almost like a whisper. He breathed against my ear.

“Staying quiet lets you hear even the smallest of sounds ...” I turned my head away, before standing up, and turning to look at him. If I got this far there was no need to be shy in any way.

“Ok, sometimes when you were busy with work I would stop and stare at you … you're … you’re” I sighed trying to find the right word as he stared at me, soon, it popped into my head as if Twilight herself was helping me along.

“Attractive, your muscles, height, mane and those eyes … I could lose myself in them when you look at me” I rubbed my hoof into the ground, not sure of what to say next. This whole situation was new to me, I’d never felt anything like this before. I sat down, biting my lip before glancing up at him. The snow making me shiver.

“You really mean all that Dash” He asked standing up from the log, waiting in front of me, I nodded slowly, as he held out his hoof. I took it and pulled myself up, not realising he was doing the same I ended up with my head buried on his chest fur. He chuckled and I took a step back, glaring at him.

“Come on Dashie lets get back to the farm.” I glared the back of his head, before flying onto his back. I hated that nick-name.

“Never call me that again.” I said between my teeth, pushing my hooves into his back. Though a small smile was breaking through.

“Now now, ah didn’t say it to be mean.” I sorted, and proceeded to drape myself across him, still tired, I yawned as he started to laugh.

“Take me to your farm slave.” I told him, sitting up and pointing ahead of us. He stopped dead turning his head to look at me.

“What?” I asked, knowing exactly what I was doing. He shrugged and carried on. Hm, he has no fight, I guess I’ll just have to make him more fun …

“What am ah gonna tell my family.” I bit my lip, he had me there, letting out a small breath I flew in front of him.

“I’ll let you decide they are your family, though I would love to play with AJ.” I grinned evilly at him, making him tilt his head and stop.

“Like what?” I landed, making gestures with my hooves as I told him.

“Well, we could carry on pretending not to like each-other, and go on secret dates and things, and she’d force us to spend more time together ...” A small smirk graced his lips. I guess he did have some fun in him .. I’d have to see how fa this stretched.

“Ah’m up for it, but if any of them start to go crazy we come clean?”

“Deal” I flew up, flying in a small circle before carrying on the way were were going. I was about to turn around when I felt a small tug on my tail and he bolted past me laughing.

“Come on Dashie how fast are you?” He did not just go there, I focused my attention on him, before flying at my regular speed, catching up to him quickly. I winked at him, out heads at the same height,. He started moving faster, so I did, every time he sped up so would I. Soon the farm was in sight and we were both exhausted. I landed resting my wings, not being able to fly as much this month was taking its toll on my training. We both panted grinning widely at each other, beads of sweat dripped down his neck causing me to gulp.

“That was … fun.” I managed to breath out, folding my wings against myself, and brushing of the beads of sweat from my own pelt. he nodded, looking at the house.

“We better wash up, or ah think they’ll just to conclusions that are wrong” I looked at him confused till it clicked in my head. I blushed deeply turning away from him.

“Where are we going then?” He stood next to me and pointed toward a small section of the orchard.

“Theres a lake down there, ah go there on my own…” He trailed off blushing himself, I wonder why? We started walking down the pass, the trees having a clear path. All the while I rambled on about training to become a wonderbolt and he walked with me, listing. It felt good to talk and not get told to slow down or shut it, and I could tell he was listing, and seemed quite interested. I told him a little about Soarin’ and how he was a good guy, but he should still keep an eye on him. As well as giving him a few ways to terrify the poor stallion. I finished talking just as we reached the lake, I gasped this place was beautiful, the snow on the branches made it look like a fairytale.

“Macintosh...” I started at the water, wondering how cold it was going to be and he just walked in.

“Its not as cold as you’d think, come on in.” I flew above it, I frowned, could I trust it wasn’t cold. Before my hoof touched the water I felt it crash over me, drenched head to hoof. I looked at him from under my mane, seeing his smile stop, as he stared at me. I frowned, before whipping my hair to get some water out. I saw him take a large gulp, then dunk his head into the water. I stood waiting for him to come up.

“You done? Whats wrong?” I lowered myself into the water, before flying up again letting it drip before I would fly’n dry. He nodded, scratching his head.

“Ah um … never seen you with a wet mane before … ah” I giggled, but stopped quickly realising that I was giggling. I cleared my throat, flying close to him, before dunking some water on his head. Instead of splashing me again, he leaned closer and kissed me again. I heard my wings make the “poof” sound before I dropping to the water. I grumbled at my wings blushing at him.

“Why do your wings keep doing that?” I sighed, and shrugged. Though the embarrassment caused me to blush again.

“Involuntary um … a pegasus thing ” I didn’t know how to explain this to him, though I’m sure he’d click after seeing AJ with Soarin’ I decided to dry off before the cold air and my wet fur met. Flying in circles I was soon dry, with my hair back into its messy style. He got out of the water and shook.

“Want some help drying off?” He looked up at me raising an eyebrow, so I made a small twister, giving him the full Rainblow-dry. His hair was windswept and back from his face causing me to laugh as he flattened it back.

“A little warning next time?” I landed next to him, looking through my eyelashes amused.

“Never, I’m full of surprises” He grinned, before heading back down the path, I followed keeping pace, but this time we were silent, just enjoyed the cool winter breeze and each others company. How did I get so soppy so sudden? It’s like I’m turning into Rarity. I groaned in my head, can this really be happening, I send less than a day with him and it already feels like he’s making me better … and softer. Soon the farm was in view and the sound of the lunch bell was ringing.

“Well then, I guess now we get to be mean to each other” He just stared at me. The blank expression he’d always work fixed into place.

“Uch, I need to get used to the silent you again” I sighed, frowning. had to be mean too or at least back to how I was, I was just about to storm away when he kissed the back of my ear.

“When were alone. ah’ll always talk okay.” I smiled, before shoving him away, and straightening myself up. I stormed ahead of him, my hooves clacking against the wooden floor. As soon as I walked in Granny, AJ a Apple Bloom stared at me, though when Mac walked in, all eye turned to him before they gt up to hug him. As much as I did want to stay I left. They needed time to talk to him, and I bet granny would hit him with her walking stick for leaving. I left the door when he came behind me.

“Come back at midnight, or now I guess I need to apologise to them.” He kissed my cheek briefly before heading back in, and sure enough “OW!” was all I heard, I chuckled to myself before flying to my house.

I glanced out my window, looking at how dark it had become, I blinked, I guess that nap took longer than usual. I jumped up from my bed, it was midnight already! Oh pleased don’t let me be late for our first … date? The thought alone made me a little excited, as I flew from the cloud I call home.

I flew around the house for any signs of him, I landed outside making sure I wasn't too loud, and looked around. I then sat waiting, hoping that he’d turn up. I lay back on the grass, the snow sending shivers down my spine. I looked up at the stars, and how they made the snow glitter.

“Beautiful isn’t it.” I jumped up, his voice surprising me, I nodded, turning to look at him. He looked amazing in the moonlight, making his fur glisten. His eyes sparkled making me feel safe. I stared at me smiling.

“You look amazing in this light” I blushed, biting on my lip a little. I gave my wings a small shake, and sat into the snow, he sat beside me and looked up.

“Ah’ve always loved looking at the stars, how they shine in different colours, they’re all so free. Quite like you now that ah think about it.” I looked up at him smiling, that was possible the sweetest thing that anypony had ever said to me before.

“I never stay awake long enough to see the stars, I usually spend all day doing the weather, then sleep. I guess only if I can’t sleep will I look at them and concentrate.” He shuffled closer to me, and began to point at all the constellations he knew, aimlessly chatting all the while. I yawned, leaning against him, still looking at at the stars as I heard him chuckle.

“What?” I asked, sighing against his shoulder.

“You’re tired, ah think it’d be best if you flew home. Thank you for agreeing to come to this … date, Rainbow Dash” I weak laugh, before standing up and getting ready to fly.

“I had fun, I can’t wait for the next one” I kissed his cheek quickly before taking off, as I got closer to my house I saw the sun beginning to rise. Yes, I should definitely take a nap, before I get to see him again. I headed straight for the bed, and had the best quickest nap of my life.

Opening my eyes, the bright rays of sun caused me to close my eyes again, I rolled away from them, re-opening my eyes. I blinked back the sleep, before finally being ready to open them properly. I grinned, ready for today. AJ’s torcher was going to be sweet.

I brushed my mane, and flew to the farm as quickly as I could. When I got there AJ was waiting outside for me, the list in her hoof.

“Here you are, this list has one job. WORK WITH MACINTOSH, really you two still haven't admitted you like each other, don’t make me lock you in a room together.” i snatched the paper from her hoof, before trotting off, acting like I didn’t care. As soon as I knew I was heading away from her, the large smile spread itself across my face.

I heard her stomp back into the house, as I thought of where Mac would be. I pondered for a moment, before looking at the list.

-You better admit it to him!

I grinned, she still had no clue, this game was becoming more fun every second, I trotted toward the barn, with a frown on my face. As soon as I got in, I made sure to sell him that I was taking this game serious … very serious.

“Oh great another day stuck with you.” He turned around and grinned at me, before returning to his black stare, and picked up some decorations. I did the same, refusing to look his way. I took my own side of the barn to decorate, the tinsel in long rows around the edge. I inspected my hoofywork before moving on, the box I had was almost empty by the time I finished.

I smiled, happy with what I’d done, as well as being confident that AJ still knew that nothing was going on. I glanced at him, as he stared from the door. I bet keeping a secret from the family was hard for him, especially one as close as his. He did agree to this, I told him he could give up when he needed too. I nudged my box onto his side of the barn, he could use them. I took another long look at the decorations, I never got to decorate my house, nobody would be able to see it, and getting cloudwalker spells for three friends was too complicated, and I can’t cook.

I heard him going through the box I’d given him, before a chuckle escaped forced me to look his way. He raised his eyebrows at me before glancing and the door and calling me over. I frowned but walked over, swishing my tail with confusion. As soon as I got close he gave me a quick kiss, then looked up at the mistletoe in his foo, a sly grin on his face.

“We need to hide this from her, or she’d force us to kiss.” He nodded, stuffing it back in the box with a happy smile on his face. If fell completely when a set of hooves came into the barn. I looked at AJ with a blank look, before going to fiddle with tinsel, trying to ignore her.

“Macintosh, where’s the mistletoe” I looked over my shoulder at them as he shrugged, taking the last ornament from his box and hanging it up. He took a small step back looking at his half of the bar, then looked at mine. He nodded pleased with the outcome, before walking from the barn. As soon as I saw AJ's head move I went straight back to fiddling with my tinsel.

"Macintosh you knew we have some, where is it, come on ah just want a kiss with Soarin'" I snorted, she’d kiss him regardless of needing the mistletoe. I heard a lot of mumbling before she came back in.

“Rainbow, have ya’ll seen the mistletoe?” I turned raising my eyebrow at her.

“Really, that mushy stuff isn’t for me.” I turned back, looking at the barn before heading out, I wondered if she planned on going through the boxes, I froze … too late, if she finds it she does, we'll just pretend not to care. I looked around to see if Mac was anywhere, and warn him. I was about to head toward the house, when AJ stood next to me, a stern look on her face.

“You had a long time to tell him, or ah’ll do it for ya.” I snorted, crossing my forelegs.

“Nothing to say to him, I still have two weeks here with him, he doesn’t like me anyway AJ, give up.” She stomped her hoof before turning toward me, her face in mine.

“Ah do not give up, especially if it-”

“AJ, if it happens it happens, forcing us together won’t make it better.” She frowned for a moment, then grinned.

“Fine, they deal was for a month of working, you’re done. If you can last the two weeks without coming to sweet apple acres you're all done.”

“Whats the catch?” She grumbled, I guess she didn’t think I’d be interested in this bargain.

“If you can’t do it, after Hearths Warming, I’ll tell Mac exactly how you feel.” I stood pretending to think, does this mean I get to have more secret spy dates with Macintosh? I held out my hoof as soon as she shook it I flew up.

“See you around Applejack” I gave her a salute and she looked at me with wide eyes, before I turned and sped away. Once I was sure my rainbow trail was long enough, I started to fly back, in search of Macintosh to tell him how our plans have changed. I made sure to be stealthy, and soon I found him. He has some snow in his mane, making me giggle, it looked really silly. I crept up behind him before jumping onto his back, he froze, until my mane fell into his face. He shook his head, as my mane fell from his eyes. I smiled, and got the rest of the snow from his mane.

“AJ banished me from the farm.” He looked at me with a questioning look.

“I told her that we wouldn’t get together if she kept forcing us, so she made a bet that if I could stay away from the farm until Hearths Warming she wouldn’t tell you that I liked you.” He sat down, making me slide down his back.

“Ah though your plan was so that she would make us spend more time together”

“It was, but now .. we can have more secret midnight dates, you know if you want.” I added, trying not to sound as girly as I did. He turned and smiled at me.

“You know what, we should.” I smiled, as he leaned toward me, as his lisp touched mine I melted, they felt just right against my own. I blushed hard when he pulled back, I guess kisses will be more frequent now too.

Hearths Warming day.

Today was the day, Hearts Warming. Over the two week I wasn’t supposed to be on the farm, Macintosh and I made regular midnight dates … it was now our thing I guess. I sat on my bed smiling. Today was the day were were going to tell everypony we’re together, if everything goes to plan. I felt a little giddy, the time we’ve spent together I’d gotten to know so much about him, the same why he knew more about me. At first I didn’t think we’d last because we were so different, but were more alike than I thought.

The month on the farm wasn’t what I’d thought it would be at all, as first, I really didn’t Like Macintosh, all he’d do was work not say a work and then go home, I wouldn’t say i hated him but I did hate what he was doing. I looked out of my window making out it was midday, the usual time even for a day like this.

I sat in front of my vanity, and brushed my mane and tail until every kink and hair was in place. I then tied a small red ribbon with a bell around my mane, like it was tied the gala (Rarity’s idea … again.) though Mac said he liked it, so it was more for him than myself. Once I was satisfied, I grabbed the saddlebag of presents I had, keeping Mac’s at the bottom, so that he’d get it once we’d made it official. I grinned, thinking about what Applejacks face would look like.

I checked everything was OK before getting ready for a gentle flight, we’d all agree’d to go to the Apple’s this year, mostly because Pinkie wanted a big place for a party, and they wanted to see what I’d done while I was … employed. I chuckled, a little bit of decorating isn’t something that would be awesome to talk about.

I smiled as no breeze was in the air, making sure that my hair styled in-tack without any problems, or need for Rarity to use me as a doll. I cringed at the thought, before finding a nice slower rhythm to my flying. The smell of apple called to me, as I saw all my friends gathered outside the barn, it might be Hearths Warming, but I don’t get up early unless I really need to.

“Rainbow Dash” They all said at once, smiling and waving.

“Darling you hair looks simply divine, I told you that bell would add the festive spirit!” I nodded, sitting down at the small table set outside. I was about to get the presents when Pinkies head popped out of the bag.

“Ooh presents, I got a good one.” I sighed, looking down at her.

“Pinkie ...” I warned, as she hopped out of my bag, a wide smile like always across her face. I handed out all the gifts, and watched as they were opened, proud that this year they did all love them. Rarity wore her new scarf, not the way I would but to her it was style, Fluttershy got some wing-warmers, since she doesn’t use them enough to keep them warm, Pinkie got a new pack of Balloons because she loved them to death, Twilight got a new book that Spike told me she was interested in and lastly I got AJ a new rope, as her usual one was getting a little worn, and Mac told me she needed one.

I glanced Mac’s way, smiling at him, before turning back to the girls as Pinkie popped a balloon, one gone 99 left to go. We all laughed with her, I could feel the day was going to be awesome already.

We were all drawn to the sound of Granny ringing the bell, she looked at me with her wicked grin. She’s found out last week that Macintosh and I were, a couple. We were watching the stars like usual when she came out, claiming she couldn't sleep, and wanted to watch the stars like she did with her husband when they were younger, seeing us made her happy, and she promised to keep it a secret till we were ready. That didn’t mean she’s make the secret any easier to keep. I heaved a sigh, I guess she was going to torcher us in front of our friends.

I smiled at the house knowing I’d helped to decorate this with Mac. I looked as everybody sat down at the table, seeing that my seat was next to macintosh I flashed granny a look, only to get a warm, and fake smile. She was beaming inside at this. Applejack and Apple Bloom also looked pleased with themselves, guess it was a family arrangement, I grumbled sitting next to him, and unpleased look on my face. It was hard, since all I wanted to do was sit close to him and smile.

“Alright ya’ll Happy Hearth's warming, lets eat” Granny said, as we all dived into the delicious food. Another thing I loved while I was here, Granny was a wonderful cook, and it helped since I’m pretty sure I was capable of burning water. Though I’d never tell anybody this, so I’m glad nobody need to come to my house for lunch. I moaned as I ate, normal meals were wonderful, but this justed tasted to awesome to be real.

Soon, every plate was polished clean, not a single crumb left on a plate, not that anybody was complaining, but I’m sure one more mouthful was sure to send us over the edge. A few clicks at the door made us all turn our heads, as Applejack got up to see who it was. The door soon opened and the sound of some "Howdy's" and "Hi's" were heard. Six sets of hooves could be heard before five stallions appeared behind AJ. I frowned, they all got to openly be with their coltfriends, no matter how old or new the relationship was. The girls all got up to greet their partner, leaving myself Macintosh, Granny and Apple Bloom at the table.

“Well, you can all go and have the party in the barn, Rainbow would you mind helping me clear up?” I jumped at the chance to help Granny, it means that I wouldn't be stuck with the couples being … couple-y. Everybody left the room, heading into the barn, where the only highlight would be sweet apple cider.

I helped carry plates to the kitchen, glad that I could now use my wings freely. Setting them down, I turned so see her close the door behind us.

“When ya’ll gonna tell them?” OK, I should have guessed she invited me here with a specific reason.

“Um … today … if things go to plan.” She just gave me that look, the one where you know all that can come out of this you’ll be dead.

“Plan, you don’t need a plan just get out there an tell them!” I sighed, and nodded, not wanting to get yelled at by somepony who in the future could become family. She came and patted me.

“Ah’m sure they’ll all be happy for you, don’t worry Rainbow.” I smiled and nodded, I took a deep breath. This wasn’t just my decision it was Mac’s too.

“Rainbow, would you tell Apple Bloom that it’s getting late, and she is to come inside, ah’m afraid she’d want to stay out there with y’ll” I nodded, and flew out the kitchen window, the door was just in my way. I saw Apple Bloom on a bale of hay with her eyes on the cider. I patted her shoulder, she looked up at me frowning, I just pointed to the house, before holding up my hoof to stop any of her pleas. I watched her trot off but she knew it was coming. I looked up at the sky, as Celestia started to slowly lower the sun.

I smiled at everybody when I came in, grabbing the stronger cider and downing a cup whole. This was going to shock everybody … and I was going to have the guts to do it! First i had to get Braeburn into Flutters good books.

“Hey Fluttershy, I just thought you should know that Braburn helped me out a few weeks ago, I told him I’d tell you, so you know he’s being kind.” She blushed, and looked at the floor giving a small nod. I took a deep breath before smiling and walking to where Braeburn and Mac were talking. I cleared my throat making them both turn to me.

“Can I speak to Mac please?” He nodded tipping his hat, and headed over to where Flutters was, a small blush still upon her face. I looked up as his confused face, as he raised an eyebrow.

“You want to tell-” I didn’t let him finish before I had my hooves wrapped around his neck and pulled him into a deep kiss. I felt my wings extend, and I didn’t care, I wasn’t embarrassed for it to happen this time. I felt him tense at first, but he soon relaxed kissing me back just as much. I pulled back and grinned at him, though I’m sure making him speechless would have been the normal reaction.

“Rainbow ah, you didn’t, ah though, so were official?” I nuzzled into him, my answer in silence, wait, I couldn’t hear anything. I turned around, seeing that everybody in the barn had froze and was looking at us, until Soarin flew in with a cup. Not looking at everybody he laughed.

“Um, Rainbow you have a … large problem right there.” I grinned until he landed.

“I know, you get them every time our around AJ” Everybody broke from being froze to see Applejack go red, before all eyes were on me and Macintosh again. I looked up at him, and flicked my tail under his chin.

“Well, ah’ve been seeing Rainbow for the past two weeks, and today were making us official, and she wanted ya’ll to be there when it happened.” I smiled at him, before looking at my friends, when AJ stomped her goof on the ground.

“Ya’ll didn’t tell me, when ah was the one trying to get you together!” I flapped my wings, a small glare on my face.

“Yes, we wanted to get together in our own time, not because you were making us!” She sighed defeated, everybody else was still a little shocked. I sat in front of Macintosh and leant back against him. I felt him sit down to, pulling me a little closer. The looks on some of their faces was like they didn't believe we were together.

I stood slowly, before going to the sweeter cider, and getting myself a cup as everybody went back to their own conversation, I guess tomorrow would be a day full of all the girls talkin’ about me and macintosh, or I’d get invited to the party Pinkie decides to have. I turned as Fluttershy smiled at me.
“Um, Rainbow you, uh … they're still up.” I blinked and look at my wings, a faint blush coming onto my cheeks just as quickly as it left.

“Don’t worry, I’m sure they’ll settle eventually, I’m sure your pop for your cowpony.” She gave a small gasp, before blushing wildly and heading from the barn, and placing her face against the snow to hide them, I chuckled as Braeburn followed her. I walked back to where Mac was sat, a large smile on his face as he took a quick gulp of his own cider.

“So, ah guess we can have non-secret midnight dates then Dashie?” He said quietly, causing me to turn and grin at my friends when giving my answer, though I’m sure I can get used to only him giving me that nick-name.

“Eeyup.”

Author's Note

For all the time skips, I might add bonus chapters when I get the time, and if people want them. They will be a chapter per skip, so 8 in total I think. I apologize if this seems a little rushed.

I didn't have an editor, to try and improve my writing skills, if you find any big mistakes please feel free to drop me a note.