The Rarest of Them All

Chapter 12

Rarity’s House, Ponyville

Spike lifted his hand to knock on Rarity’s door but hesitated for a moment. He had no idea what sort of mental state she was in at the moment and had no desire to further agitate the situation. Spike had to admit that the visit from Rarity’s parents had been…a bit awkward to say the least, but they seemed like good people. He could’ve done without Magnum’s hug but at least Pearl had the decency to limit her affection to a simple peck on the cheek.

Unfortunately, Pinkie had no such reservations. The hyperactive girl practically gave him a mouthful of nipple when she assaulted him with a goodbye hug. And by Celestia did she have a soft set of knockers! Not only that but as an added bonus, she smelled like cake! With a chuckle, Spike realized that both traits were likely attributed to the copious amount of baked goods she consumed and worked with on a daily basis.

Much to his relief, it was a quick hug…because Pinkie would have noticed Spike Jr popping up to say hello had it lasted any longer. While it was true that he was only interested in Rarity, he had to admit that Pinkie was attractive…in her own way. Especially the cute heart shaped pattern of her—nope, don’t go there Spike. Despite the unintended arousal, that wasn’t even the worst part. Pinkamena Diane Pie, airhead extraordinaire, would’ve driven the whole way back to Sugarcube Corner stark naked if he hadn’t reminded the girl to put her clothes back on.

With a deep breath, Spike hardened his resolve and knocked on the door. He waited. A whole minute went by and there was still was no response whatsoever. Spike was about to knock a second time, until he heard the doorknob click. Afterwards, the door slowly swung open, revealing a distraught Rarity sitting on her bed. Her eyes were severely bloodshot and she had what appeared to be a large box of chocolates in her hand.

“Hey Rarity, do you mind if I come in?”

Rarity sniffed. “No, go ahead and take a seat next to me. But don’t be too surprised if I start to snuggle you. I’m…in need of some comfort right now.”

Spike sat next to her and put his arm around her shoulder, wrapping her in a gentle hug. Instead of saying anything, she simply leaned into the embrace, content to enjoy the warmth of her lover’s chest. After a few minutes, she sighed and grasped Spike’s hand.

“I’m sorry, darling. I probably shouldn’t be so upset about this whole situation. But I just…can’t help it!”

“Look, I don’t want to sound like a jerk but…why exactly are you so upset? I mean, yeah it’s pretty weird that your parents walk around naked all the time but they didn’t seem like bad people to me.”

Rarity huffed. “That’s just it, Spike! They aren’t bad people. I’m upset because…I was never very comfortable with the whole nudist thing. And they’ve always been so oblivious to my discomfort, even after six years!”

“I’m probably not the best person to judge such a thing. I uhh…pretty much lived most of my life in the buff and so did most of my friends. But umm…I can kind of see why it would be awkward for humans because…all of your stuff is on display.”

“Yes, that would be a rather accurate summation. But the point is: people who chose to live in the nude are amongst the minority in this world. As such, it is absolutely mortifying to have one’s parents greet friends and lovers in such a state. Make no mistake; it is a social faux pas on several different levels!”

Spike frowned. “Well, you gotta give them the benefit of the doubt. They couldn’t have known you were bringing friends over or that I was staying here. Still…it is sort of rude that they would just walk around naked in your house.”

“Exactly!”

“Even so, I’d still like to know why you’re so uncomfortable with it.”

“To put it bluntly: my parents have a VERY active sex life. And since they are always naked, it is far easier for them to have sex wherever and whenever they want. Let us just say that I have been the unfortunate witness to such activities on several different occasions.”

Spike coughed and blushed. “Oh. Yeah that’s…pretty bad. Although, that would explain why your dad was staring at your mom’s butt the whole time I was talking to him…”

“Spike, how did you know my father was staring in that particular direction?”

“I—uhh—well…I might have stared too.”

Rarity groaned. “Damn it all! But…I guess you couldn’t help it. My mother is quite attractive for a woman her age and it’s nigh impossible for a healthy male not to stare when her entire body is on display.”

Thank Celestia she doesn’t know what happened with Pinkie. “Yeah that’s true. Still, I’m sorry for looking at your mom that way. But…is it ok if I look at you that way?”

Rarity blushed. “I d-don't think I'd mind...”

Spike felt his heart pound furiously inside of his chest. In all of the years that he had yearned for Rarity’s affection, never had she looked sexier than she did right now. Perhaps it was her timid expression that triggered his lust or perhaps, for the first time, it was because she wanted Spike to look at her.

In a fit of passion, he cupped Rarity’s chin with his hand and kissed her softly on the lips. Rarity responded in kind by nibbling on his lower lip and rubbing her fingers through his hair. While they continued to kiss, he began to move his other hand up her leg until he felt the soft fabric of her panties brush up against his fingers. Right as he was about the pull down on the waistband, she suddenly stopped and pushed Spike away.

“Did I…do something wrong?”

“I’m terribly sorry, Spike.” Rarity whispered. “I…just don’t think I’m ready yet.”

“I’m sorry! I thought it was what you wanted. B-but I swear, if I did anything wrong please tell me!”

“You didn’t do anything wrong, darling. However, for the time being, let me have some time to myself to sort out my feelings.”

Spike felt his chest tighten. “So…you’re leaving?”

“Just for a while. I promise I’ll be back in few hours.”

With a sad smile, Rarity kissed Spike on the forehead and walked out of the room. Once she was gone, Spike buried his face into her pillow and screamed. He was a fool. He had let his own desires get the better of him. Now, he wasn’t even sure if everything was going to work out with Rarity or not. As the final shreds of his willpower faded away, he slowly drifted to sleep, noting how the pillow smelled like her.

Rainbow’s Apartment, Ponyville

After a long week of training for the upcoming season of soccer, it was about time that Rainbow got a day off. Naturally, that meant that today was all about relaxing and doing absolutely nothing productive. With a happy squeal she plopped onto the couch and began to enjoy a huge cheesesteak sandwich, some french fries, and a large blue raspberry slushy.

The night prior, she had decided to rent the latest Daring Do film titled: Legend of the Sapphire Skull and was currently watching it in full HD. That is…until she heard the doorbell ring. With an annoyed grunt she paused the movie and opened the door. Much to her surprise, Rarity of all people was standing outside. And for some odd reason she looked really disheveled and upset.

Rarity cleared her throat. “Hello, Rainbow. I hope…I’m not interrupting anything. I just needed a friend to talk to.”

“Nah, it’s alright Rares. I was only watching a movie. C’mon inside and take a seat. So, what do ya wanna talk about?”

“I’m afraid it has to do with Spike and I.”

Rainbow rubbed the back of her neck. “Aww Geez. Rares, you know I’m not very good with all of that relationship stuff. No offence, but why didn’t you go visit AJ or Mrs. Cake or something?”

“Mrs. Cake and Applejack are both working at the moment. However, I remembered that you had off from your training regimen today so...”

“So…you’re saying that the only reason you came over here is because it’s my day off. Wow, I’m sooo glad that my schedule was convenient for you.”

Rarity groaned. “Look, I will admit that it is convenient but I really need to share my thoughts with someone and I consider you a trustworthy enough friend to share such thoughts with. And besides, you certainly aren’t dressed to be doing anything important.”

“Hey! A t-shirt and gym shorts are perfectly ok to wear, Ms. Fashion-Pants! Still…I’m glad that you think I’m such a good friend. Anyway, what’s the problem?”

“As you might be aware, Spike and I traveled to Appleloosa for a few days to attend the Summer Festival. We both had a wonderful time and he ended up confessing his romantic feelings towards me.”

“Did ya say yes?”

Rarity nodded. “Indeed I did. Now, I will admit that I certainly found Spike attractive prior to his confession but…my feelings for him aren’t quite as passionate as his towards me.”

“Hmm. That is a bit of a problem but all you need to do is spend some more time with him, right? I’m sure that once you get to know him better, it’ll all work out.”

“I know, but something happened earlier today that might have put our relationship in jeopardy. And I’m a-afraid it was entirely all my fault…”

Rainbow’s expression darkened. “He didn’t…try to rape you, did he? If he did, I’ll kick his ass so hard that he’ll have to unbutton the collar of his shirt to take a dump!”

“Good heavens, no! He didn’t rape me. If anything he was very gentle. It’s just that he started to pull down my underwear while we were kissing a-and…I couldn’t go any further. I was terrified, Rainbow! I’ve thought about making love for so long, but when I finally found myself about to do it…I wasn’t anywhere near ready. What should I do? Spike probably thinks that I don’t want to be with him anymore or that…he did something wrong!”

Rainbow wrapped Rarity in a gentle hug. “Rares, it’s ok to be afraid. Heh…if we’re being honest, I’m a little scared about sex too. And I’m willing to bet that he’s nervous about it too. That being said, it’s in your best interest to tell Spike about how you feel. He seems like a pretty smart guy, so I’m sure he’ll understand.”

“You’re right, darling. I feel like such an idiot. Why didn’t I think of that in the first place?”

“It’s probably because you aren’t as awesome as I am.”

Rarity giggled. “Thank you, Rainbow. All joking aside, I appreciate your advice.”

“No Prob. That’s what friends are for! So…do you wanna hang out and watch this movie with me or something? It might help you clear your mind a bit.”

“Ah, the latest Daring Do film I presume? No thank you, I’m not much a fan of action movies. But I would still like us to ‘hang out’, if you’re open to my suggestion.”

“Uhh…sure. What do ya have in mind?”

Rarity rubbed her chin. “Well, I was thinking that we could do a bit of shopping. NOT clothing though. I’m going to buy an apology gift for Spike, to be more specific. Would you mind coming along?”

“Eh, alright. Is there any specific place you want go to?”

Rarity grinned. “Why yes there is, in fact. It’s a quaint little gift shop in town. And I’m fairly certain they’ll have something Spike will enjoy.”

Shopping District, Ponyville

Rainbow was beginning to regret her decision. Instead of watching an awesome movie, she was hopelessly bored sitting inside of Rarity’s car. When her fashion savvy friend had told her the shop was in town, she hadn’t specified how incredibly far in town it actually was. Needless to say, it wasn’t exactly on her hit parade to sit inside of a car listening to classical music for nearly a half hour. She immediately perked up when Rarity parked in front of an old-timey looking shop with a sign in big cursive letters saying: Lulamoon’s Magical Gifts & Collectables.

Rainbow whistled. “I gotta admit, this place looks pretty cool.”

“Isn’t it, though? The whole entire shop’s motif is based off of nineteenth century English architecture! And it has the most wonderful items inside. Come, let’s go in.”

Sure enough, as they entered the shop, it was like stepping back in time. The whole place had dozens of old oak and glass cabinets arranged in rows with various nick-knacks and antiques displayed inside. A large grandfather clock stood next to a counter, where a very bored looking girl stood behind. Upon hearing the doorbell chime, the girl immediately stopped reading her magazine and smiled at Rarity and Rainbow.

“Welcome to Lulamoon’s Magical Gifts & Collectables! My name is Trixie, should you require any assistance. Today all of the—wait a moment! Both of you seem…familiar somehow.”

Rainbow scoffed. “Oh yeah…you’re the GREAT AND POWERFUL Trixie, aren’t you? I swear I loaned you some lunch money and you never paid it back…”

“Trix—err…I mean I don’t refer to myself in the third person anymore! I’ve been…going to therapy to try and fix that annoying little habit, as well as improve my communication skills. And how much do I…ehem…owe you?”

“I don’t really remember to be honest. Just gimme five bucks and we’ll call it even.”

Trixie slapped a five onto the counter. “DEAL! So what brings you to my family’s humble shop?”

“I’m not really here for anything. My friend is the one you want to talk to.”

Rarity smiled. “I’m looking to purchase a gift for my boyfriend, darling.”

“Ah, what exactly did you have in mind? We’re running a special on magic trick kits right now. Buy one get one free! Would your lover be interested in one of those?”

“Ehhh…I don’t think so. I was thinking more along the lines of a piece of jewelry. Perhaps a necklace or a ring?”

Trixie frowned. “Oh. Well, I don’t really know very much about jewelry. B-but my brother knows quite a bit. Hold on a moment while I go get him.”

Only a moment later, Trixie returned to the counter with an older man in tow. He was at least a head taller than his sister and possessed the same silver hair that she did, except it was much shorter and slicked back with hair gel. Much to Rarity and Rainbow’s surprise, he was wearing a stylish violet colored suit that perfectly matched his eyes. He gave the both of them a roguish grin that would’ve put Han Solo to shame.

Rainbow whispered into Rarity’s ear. “Whoa…he’s really hawt.”

“I completely agree, but I was under the impression that you were smitten with Big Mac.”

Rainbow frowned. “Yeah, about that. I might have tried to ask him out while you guys were in Appleloosa. It…didn’t go very well. He’s apparently been dating Cheerilee for like two months already. Seriously, I had no idea! I’ve never even seen them together!”

“Hmm. That’s interesting. I didn’t know that either. Applejack certainly didn’t mention it.”

The older man cleared his throat. “Excuse me ladies, but am I interrupting something? If so, I can assist you later.”

“Oh I’m terribly sorry sir. I assure you that we are quite finished.”

The man bowed. “In that case, Trevelyan Lulamoon at your service. But you may call me Trevor.”

“My name is Rarity and I was wondering if you could assist me in finding an appropriate gift for my significant other.”

With a flourish of his hand, Trevor produced a white rose in his hand and presented it to Rarity. Once she took the flower, he smiled and made a set of keys appear out of thin air.

“One gift deserves another, my dear. And I’m sure that whoever your lover is, he’s lucky to have you. Now, what kind of gift were you looking to purchase?”

Rarity giggled. “Oh my, such a gentleman! Are you, by chance, a magician?”

“How very astute! Indeed I am. When the mood strikes me, I take on the name: The Mysterious and Mystical Trevor! It’s somewhat of a part time thing, though. This shop is where I work most of the year.”

“I should like to see one of your shows sometime. In any case, I’m looking for jewelry. A necklace or ring would suffice.”

Trevor clapped his hands. “We have plenty of jewelry! Follow me to that case at the far end of the shop and we’ll pick something out.”

As Rarity perused the many pieces of finely crafted jewelry, Trevor stood next to her seemingly staring off into space. Rarity happened to notice his odd behavior but didn’t comment on it right away because she thought he was just waiting for her to make a decision.

After a few more moments of browsing, she found a lovely jade ring with an oriental dragon etched into the design. It was very fitting in her opinion. But when she turned around to ask Trevor to unlock the case, he was still staring…at something. Now, she was genuinely worried.

“Excuse me, Trevor. Is there something wrong?”

Trevor blushed. “Oh…ehem…sorry. Have you made a decision?”

“Yes, I would like that little jade ring. However, I’m slightly concerned about your behavior. Are you feeling alright?”

“Am I really that obvious? Very well. If you must know, I find myself quite enamored with your beautiful friend.”

Rarity’s jaw dropped. “WHAT?! B-but I don’t understand. I thought you were flirting with me earlier.”

“Ah, well that was just my attempt at being polite. I’m sorry if you thought I was trying to umm…put the moves on you.”

“It’s alright, darling. Still…Rainbow? Not to be rude, but I just assumed that you were into women of class and sophistication.”

Trevor rubbed his forehead. “Quite frankly, it upsets me that so many people come to that conclusion. What? Just because I dress nicely, I must automatically like a certain type of woman?”

“Fine, I’m sorry that I jumped to conclusions. But what…exactly do you find so attractive about Rainbow? It can’t possibly be her choice of attire.”

“Don’t you see? That’s exactly what makes her so charming! She’s so comfortable with her own image that she doesn’t care if men see her in a simple t-shirt and gym shorts. Not that she isn’t beautiful to begin with!”

“I have no words.”

Trevor sighed. “Sporty girls truly are the best! Most men love big breasts but as for me, I don’t care if they’re small. It’s all about the legs and buttocks! Oooh they’re just so firm on athletes~ Sorry, I got a bit carried away there.”

“We all have our preferences, I suppose. As luck would have it, she told me earlier that she found you attractive as well. I also happen to know that she’s on the market and currently looking for handsome man to fill the gaping void in her life. So...why don’t you go introduce yourself to her?”

Trevor rubbed his chin. “I believe I shall. It’s not as if I have anything to lose. But where are my manners? I haven’t retrieved your ring yet!”

With a relieved smile upon her lips, Rarity made her way back to the counter so that she could purchase Spike’s gift. As odd as it sounded, Rainbow and Trixie were having a lively conversation discussing the nuances of the Daring Do series until Trevor cleared his throat.

Trixie blushed. “Sorry, I got a bit carried away. Ah, you’re in luck Ms. Rarity! This particular ring is fifty percent off. That brings your total down to twenty five dollars!”

“Thank you, darling. I’m sure Spike will love it. Rainbow, do you mind if I browse around the shop for a while longer?”

“I guess not. I’ll just hang with Trixie for a while longer.”

Rarity winked. “Don’t worry, I shan’t be long.”

Taking that as his cue, Trevor gently tapped Rainbow on the shoulder and gave her the sexiest smile he could muster. The young athlete’s eyes widened in surprise for just a moment but after she got over her initial shock, a light blush spread across her cheeks.

“Hey I’m Rainbow, ‘sup?”

“What a lovely name! It certainly suits you. I am Trevelyan Lulamoon, part time magician and partial owner of this fine shop. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

OH MY GOSH! He’s actually talking to me! “That’s cool. Can you like, do any magic tricks right now?”

Trevor chuckled. “Why certainly! Just hold out your hand and I’ll do the rest.”

Normally, Rainbow would’ve been pretty suspicious about letting some random guy hold her hand but…she could make an exception in this case. It took all of her willpower not to squeal in girlish delight when he made a red rose appear in her hand. Despite what others might think, Rainbow didn’t mind receiving flowers. What made this particular rose so special was the fact that this was the first time a guy had ever given her one.

Rainbow sniffed the flower and grinned. “It’s beautiful.”

“A beautiful woman deserves a beautiful flower, no?”

“Y-you really t-t-think I’m…beautiful? But…I-I’m not even dressed up o-or wearing make-up!”

“Don’t be silly. You don’t need all of those things to be beautiful. You’re charming just the way you are.”

Rainbow turned beet red. “Haaaaaa….I THINK YOU’RE SEXY TOO! WOULD YOU LIKE TO GET DINNER SOME TIME? Ya know…if that’s cool with you.”

“I’d like that. There’s a lovely Italian restaurant called Palazzo di Formaggio just a few blocks away from here. They make some of the best spaghetti in town. How does six o’ clock tomorrow evening sound?”

Rainbow jotted down her address on a scrap of paper. “A-awesome I love Italian food! Oh a-and here’s my address. So…I guess I’ll see ya tomorrow, then?”

“Tomorrow it is.”

With a noticeable bounce in her step, Rainbow got into Rarity’s car and let out a girlish giggle. Rarity couldn’t help but smile because she was happy that her tomboyish friend had finally found a man that was interested in her. As they drove back to the house, Rainbow took one more sniff of the rose and placed it in her hair. Inevitably, Rarity’s thoughts drifted back to Spike.

I really hope Spike isn’t too upset. But what happened, happened. There’s no changing it. However, I can ask for his forgiveness and hopefully we can talk about how to approach making love. I have to trust that we will work something out, even if it takes me a while to come to terms with it. Please be patient with me, Spike….