Blooming Fabulousby PirateChaptersCan't SayJust To Be NearCloseness FamilyCan't SayCan’t Say As Apple Bloom tilled the field, her mind was in turmoil. Big Mac had once told her that the reason he liked to till the fields was that it gave him a chance to be alone with his thoughts. And this was the same reason she hated it. Whenever she had time to think, her mind kept coming back to the same thoughts, over and over again. It had started as a wondering a few months ago. When Twist had gotten engaged, she slowly found herself wondering if she’d ever find her own special somepony. After all, Big Mac had settled down with Miss Cheerlilee. Maybe Applejack would start looking soon. Yet throughout her teenage years up till now, Apple Bloom couldn’t ever remember being interested in any colt that way. And when she did try and force herself to look for somepony, she had noticed it. She had noticed that her eyes would eventually end up looking over the mares, not the stallions. For weeks, she had forced herself to look for a stallion she could picture herself with, but time and time again, she ended up back at the fairer sex. More specifically, one mare in particular. While normally that would be no issue, especially not in such a progressive town like Ponyville, it did present a problem for Apple Bloom. The Apple family were a traditional family. They married mare and stallion, and they always tried to keep it mostly Earth Ponies. It wasn’t that they were against inter-tribal marriage. Apple Bloom had a few cousins that were Pegasus or Unicorn. She also remembered that during family photos, they’d had to cover up their horns. It was just unsettling, seeing the way some of her family considered an Apple from the other tribes less of a family member. And she had an Uncle who had a taste for stallions in armour, but the first time she had heard this, as a little filly she wanted to go over and ask him what this meant, but Applejack and Macintosh had steered her away. The pressure was still there, to marry an Earth Pony and raise up more little Earth Pony colts and fillies for the clan. It was the done thing. So imagine how hard it would be to admit to all of your extended family that not only did you want to get married to another mare, but one that wasn’t even an Earth Pony. As far as she could tell, no Apple had ever done this. Fallen for both the wrong sex and the wrong clan, well, in their eyes. Or maybe they had, and they were expelled from the Apple family tree? She wasn’t sure. Maybe she should just count herself lucky she had fallen for a pony at all! Imagine the looks on their faces if she brought a Donkey or a Gryphon home. As the sun set and Apple Bloom finished her work, she steeled herself. She was going to do it this time. She would wait till Big Mac and Applejack were inside, then she’d admit she was a filly fooler. Cheerilee was likely out of school by now, and if Apple Bloom came out, she was sure at least her former teacher turned sister-in-law would support her. So Big Mac would come round to it eventually. Then there was AJ …. As she entered the farm house, Applebloom felt like her throat was clamming up. She found her footsteps getting shorter and shorter, as if she was trying to prolong how long she could remain outside. They were all sitting at the table, not looking her way. Maybe she could just not say anything until they were looking over here. Could she really do it this time? Could she come clean? Apple Bloom took a deep breath, then tried just spitting it out it out. “Ahm ah f..” “Hey Applebloom, ah need a favour” interrupted her sister. Apple Bloom faltered. It wasn't like AJ to go around just interrupting. Then she realised that she had probably been so quiet that Applejack never even noticed her talking. Apple Bloom’s face fell. She had missed her chance. She couldn't do it now. Applejack turned round to face her little sister, with her hat in her hooves. “Ah tore my Stetson while working the fields. You mind running it on over to Carousel Boutique for me?” Apple Bloom nearly choked. “Huh, me?” she asked, a flutter in her voice. Luckily it seemed nopony noticed. She was just glad she had finished working. Looking at her, they’d assume the reason she was sweating so much right now was due to the heat. “But ahm all dirty. Ah’ve not even had a shower yet.” “Yeah, but ah’m meeting Fluttershy to go give the vampire fruit bats their annual check-up, and Big Mac and Cheerilee have an appointment. ‘Sides, we have a couple extra bits left over from the harvest. Ah was thinking maybe you could pick yourself up a new bow. Your old one is looking a little long in the tooth.” Oh great, another reason why she didn't want to go now. She couldn't show up covered in dirt AND with a messy ribbon. Cheerliee leaned forward. “Sorry Apple Bloom. I’d offer to do it, but we’re seeing the doctor today. Since we were going to start trying to start our family soon, we booked a check-up to make sure everything is okay with the both of us.” Apple Bloom slumped down, defeated. She couldn’t argue with that. She knew how much this meant to them both. “Okay, but can ah at least wash my hooves? You know what’ll happen if I drag any mud in there.” Applejack chuckled. “Yeah, true enough. Rarity’d tan yer hide and bend yer ear right proper for that.” “Eyup” agreed Big Mac. Applejack rustled her sister’s hair and handed her the hat as she moved past her to the door. “Thanks. I’ll meet y’all back here tonight for dinner. Fresh apple pie and cream tonight. And ah expect y’all back by 6. Don’t get too distracted just cos you’ll see Sweetie Belle.” “Right … Sweetie Belle” muttered Apple Bloom, shaking her head as she dashed into the kitchen to quickly wash her face and hooves. Once her coat was spotless she gave her mane a quick brush as she looked in the mirror. Applejack was right. This bow was getting a bit raggedy. Not wanting to show up to Carousel Boutique looking like something Opal had dragged in, she took it off. “Here Granny, can you watch this for me?” she asked, tossing it onto the kitchen table before grabbing AJ’s Stetson and running out the door. “KayThanksBye” Not wanting to be stuck in her own head again, Apple Bloom had quickly flagged down fellow ex-Cutie Mark Crusader Scootaloo for a lift. When the trio had gotten their cutie marks years ago, Scootaloo had decided to put her scooter skills to good use, and she had become the local town taxi, with a rickshaw tied to the back of her scooter, taking people where they needed to go and fast, just like she used to do with Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. As she got close, Apple Bloom heard Scootaloo whistle. “Hey, you got your hair loose. Lookin’ good. You trying to catch the boys eyes, looking like that?” “No, don’t be… of course not” protested Apple Bloom as she climbed into the back of the rickshaw. “Ah’m heading to Rarity’s to buy a new bow, and get Applejack’s hat fixed.” Scootaloo frowned as she buzzed her little wings, the cab speeding off. “Aww, shame. I was hoping maybe you and Sweetie wanted to go out tonight. Apparently there is this hot new club in Canterlot opening, and it’s run by an ex-Wonderbolt. Dash got me some tickets, and I was hoping we’d go out Crusading for some dates tonight. It’s been ages since the three of us have got together.” Indeed it had. Even since Apple Bloom’s revelation about herself, she’d felt uncomfortable around Sweetie. She’d tried her best to hide it, but of course Scoots had picked up on it. “Sorry, I have a family dinner tonight, and I’m just not up for clubbing tonight.” It looked like Scootaloo was going to say something, but thought better of it. The rest of the ride went on in uncomfortable silence. As Scootaloo helped Apple Bloom out the rickshaw, she placed a hoof on the farm pony’s shoulder. “Look. I know I’m not the best when it comes to stuff to do with feelings, but if you need to talk about something, I’m here for you, ok? Day or night, whatever it is, you want to get something off your chest, just come to me.” Apple Bloom felt comforted by that. “Thanks. I may take you up on that. I know I’ve been a bit distant lately. I’m just ….” She couldn’t finish. She couldn’t even tell Scootaloo, one of her closest friends who she had known for years. Apple Bloom felt pathetic. “It’s ok.” Scoots gave her a nudge on the chin and a wink. “Don’t force yourself. When you need me, I’ll be there. And the offer for tonight is still open!” Scootaloo suddenly found herself in an embrace, as Apple Bloom hugged her. “I know. Thanks.” Eventually they broke apart, and Scootaloo zipped off to find another fare, leaving Scootaloo to walk the rest of the path up to Carousel Boutique. As she got close, her knees nearly failed her. She briefly considered turning and running, but another part of her wanted to rush over. It was funny how sometimes the people you want to see the most are the hardest to face. Apple Bloom heard the little bell tingle as she pushed open the door and entered Carousel Boutique. She smiled as she came face to face with the object of her affections. “Hello, and welcome to Carousel Boutique where every garment is chic, unique and magnifique! Oh, it’s you Apple Bloom darling! How are things?” said Rarity, the Element of Generosity and most beautiful pony in Ponyville. Just To Be NearJust To Be Near “Well don’t just stand there, darling. Come on in.” The beautiful unicorn motioned her inside with a happy smile and a quick hug that left Apple Bloom feeling a bit more flushed than she should be feeling. “I’m afraid Sweetie isn’t in at the moment. A shame. I know you two haven’t seen much of each other lately.” “Well actually, ah was looking fer ...” Apple Bloom coughed as she caught herself. “Ahem, I mean I was looking for you Rarity. I need your, uh ... professional skills, that’s it!” She gave a chuckle that she hoped didn’t sound too nervous. Rarity cast a quick glance over Apple Bloom, critically examining her the way she would all her clients. “No need to be embarrassed Apple Bloom. I know Applejack jokingly teases me about my fashion sense, but I’m always here to help someone in the shopping needs.” “Ahm not embarrassed!” the farmpony spat out. “Fashion is a fine thing.” Instinctively she brought up Applejack’s hat and tried to cover her face with it. “I mean, it’s not as important to us as it is to you, but I don’t mean to belittle you or what you do Rarity.” The white unicorn laughed it off. “I know darling. And you know I love and respect the work that goes on at Sweet Apple Acres, and all you do for the town and the young fillies and colts. Each to our own.” A brilliant blue aura filled Apple Bloom’s vision as the stetson was telekinetically lifted off of her head. “A patch job for AJ I take it?” Already she was turning it over, and examining the garment from multiple angles, making notes to herself of the work ahead. “Uh, yeah” Apple Bloom nodded, annoyed she no longer had anything to hide behind. She quickly glanced about the room. The front of Carousel Boutique was Rarity’s showroom, her front store. It displayed her main work, all her finished garments up on rails ready to be picked up. While most of her work was custom orders, it must have paid to have some examples of her own work up front to entice customers in. All of the dresses currently out were Rarity’s summer range, and each was far more elegant than anything Apple Bloom could ever get away with wearing. Everything from boots to top hats, all studded in gems. Gems were in this season. It seemed ever since Rarity made it big, she could make gems in if she wanted to. “And maybe I was thinking of picking up something for myself while I was here too? A new bow to make me look pretty?” Rarity’s attention was suddenly drawn away from the hat and had focused solely on Apple Bloom. The fashionista squeed. “Fantastic! Let’s see how much of your inner beauty we can bring out with just one accessory. I love a challenge dear. For you, we need to focus on not trying to overshadow your own natural beauty.” Rarity thought she was beautiful? Even if Rarity could see the beauty in anything, it still made Apple Bloom happy. She always thought of herself as plain, and being in the shadow of someone naturally graceful like Sweetie, or someone with an amazingly athletic body like Scoots, she never expected much attention. And now the woman of her dreams was calling her beautiful. If only she was bolder, she would have leapt onto Rarity right then and there, and planted a kiss upon the mare. Instead, the best the farm pony could manage was a whispered “Thanks” and a blush. A brush was soon levitated over, and Rarity began to brush out Apple Bloom’s mane, smoothing it out and untangling it. It was such a gentle act, nothing like the way Applejack would hastily brush her mane something fierce when they were in a hurry. It was soft, and gentle. Almost caring... “Your hair is such a brilliant shade of amaranth darling” “Amaranth? It is?” “It’s gorgeous darling. The only issue is, not many colours go with it. Other than the shade of crimson of your original ribbon, I’d maybe suggest a pale yellow, or possibly even a light blue if you really want to stand out and catch those stallions eyes.” “Enope” she said, mimicking her brother’s speech. “I don’t really want to catch any stallions eyes. I’ll stick with a similar colour.” Rarity raised an eyebrow in response to that, and for a second Applebloom thought maybe Rarity had picked up on that, but the fashionista just carried on like nothing was out of the ordinary. Rarity soon brought out her glasses as she sorted through possible ribbons. Apple Bloom couldn't deny the fact that Rarity had a certain charm when she wore those glasses. She looked truly breathtaking when she was in her element. The only time she looked even better was the very few rare times she wore her mane down, an occurrence which mostly happened when Rarity got her mane wet. Several ribbons of various shades of red floated over, and Rarity cast a critical eye over all of them, holding a few up in-front of Apple Bloom to see how they went with her colours. Eventually settling on one, Rarity brought it towards her and began tying it in a bow. “Is that diamonds in it?” asked Apple Bloom with a hint of panic. The sides of the ribbon had small gems sewn into them, so that they reflected the light and gave the ribbon a slightly glittering appearance. While AJ had given her money for a new bow, no way in Tartarus could she afford something like this. “Only a few small ones dear. And they are of low quality, just designed to catch the eye with the light. Don’t worry about it. They are too small to be used in one of my main dresses, but on a ribbon, they’ll look wonderful.” “Still, I don’t know if I can accept this….” Apple Bloom felt a hoof upon her shoulder, and looked up into those big beautiful sapphire eyes. “Nonsense. What good is being the Element of Generosity if I can’t spoil my friends rotten now-and-then?” Apple Bloom could swear her face must now be redder than the ribbon she now wore. Apple Bloom decided to dig a little deeper to see how Rarity felt about her. “So you consider me a friend then? I mean, it’s not like we ever spent time together, just the two of us.” Rarity just smiled as she brought AJ’s hat up to eye level. “Well I suppose family would be a better description? I mean you and Sweetie are as close as real sisters.” A lump in Bloom’s chest started to form when she heard Rarity say she thought of her like a sister. “I’ve known you and Scootaloo for many many years, but perhaps you are right. I don’t know either of you personally. We’ve only spent time together as a group. I know you as Sweetie’s friend or as Applejack’s little sister. I suppose the only time we’ve ever had to truly bond with one another was the night of the accident.” An awkward silence fell between the two mares. That horrible night was a night neither of them would ever forget. It was one f the worst nights in Apple Bloom’s life. It was also the same night she fell in love with Rarity, but it wouldn’t be until years later that she’d realise it herself. Shaking her head fiercely, Apple Bloom tried to force those memories away for now. “Yeah, I suppose we didn’t really spend any time together at all, did we?” This was stupid. Really, what was she thinking? She had barely spent any time with Rarity. All she was and all she ever would be was AJ’s little sister and Sweetie’s friend. Rarity must get courted by mares and stallions all across Canterlot. What chance did one silly little farm girl really have in the long run? Did she truly think just because she lived in the same town as her for years, that somehow made her a more eligible partner than a Prince or a Duke? “And that is truly a shame.” Even Rarity seemed a bit downtrodden at this now obvious fact, although Apple Bloom knew it was nothing compared to her own soul-crushing despair. “In-fact, looking at this hat, it’ll likely take me a couple of hours to sew and patch back up, and I’ll be closing the shop up soon. I could use some company while I fix it ...” The white mare gave Apple Bloom such an amazing grin, she had once again unknowingly stolen her heart. “Wait, really?” she asked with probably too much enthusiasm in her voice. Rarity giggles, perhaps noticing it. “Yes really. Unless you have anywhere else to go tonight?” Apple Bloom glanced up at Rarity’s clock, seeing the hands indicating it was now coming up for half-past five. And for the life of her, Bloom couldn’t think of anything else to do for the next few hours but spend some alone time with Rarity. “Enope, can’t think of a thing!” “Excellent!” Rarity beamed. “Why don’t you put the kettle on, then we can retire to the lounge.” Elsewhere, later on, at the outskirts of Ponyville, a table was getting set for dinner at the Apple Farm. An annoyed AJ looked up at the clock. “Dang’it! Where in tarnation has that girl gone off to? Ah told her not to get too wrapped up with Sweetie. Ah swear Granny, youngsters these days ...” Author's Note Slow chapter this time, sorry. The plot will start next chapter! Might be from Rarity's point of view, Closeness Closeness Closeness It started with tea, while Rarity set to work on the hat. Of course, being such an easy patch job, Rarity was able to mend it while keeping most of her attention on the conversation. After all, playing a good hostess was important. “So me, Twist, Rumble and Dinky are all left waiting on the cue to come on stage, but of course Diamond Tiara never gives it. Next thing we know, she takes the spotlight, and ….” Rarity sipped her tea politely as she listened to Apple Bloom’s story. Rarity had started with some tales about her own childhood and a few stories of her travels with the girls, and now Apple Bloom was sharing her own. “…. and then we look round the corner and see Scootaloo, Snails and Rumble trying to drag her away. Miss Cheerilee was livid!” “Oh, I can imagine,” Rarity chuckled. Of course Rarity knew how Cheerilee got, she had grown up with her, and was in the same year at school as her. “Speaking of your lovely sister-in-law, I have a tale to tell you about her.” This got Apple Bloom’s attention straight away, and the Earth pony sat up straight so she could better hear it. Rarity cleared her throat. “Well, when we were younger, a few of us, Cheerilee, Torch Song, Lotus Blossom and myself, wanted to go see this particular concert in Canterlot. Of course, none of us had tickets, still being students, so Lotus got this idea that she could convince …” “..... next thing I know, I'm holding a receipt for 2000 apples for the Crystal Empire jousting tournament.” The cold tea had been long set aside for glasses of wine, and a touch of pink now gracing the cheeks of Rarity and Apple Bloom. Many years of knowing hard drinkers link Rainbow Dash and Applejack ensured Rarity knew how much wine she could handle, and while she couldn’t compete with those two, it seemed she was faring better than Apple Bloom, who was now swaying slightly, a smile plastered on her face and a glazed look in her eyes. The older mare suspected she must be tipsy, but hadn’t yet reached the level of drunk. As the farm pony continued with her tale, Rarity secretly levitated a bottle of non-alcoholic wine out of her kitchen and made the switch. She floated Applejack’s now fixed hat over, onto Apple Bloom’s head. “Please continue dear.” “Okay, so once I had booked the train tickets…” “So I walk up to them and ask, “What d’y’all think yer doin’?” and they say, ahem,” Apple Bloom coughs and blushes. “I ask, “What do you all think you're doing?” and the big one looks down at me and says…” “Why do you do that?” interrupts Rarity. “Do what?” asks a confused Apple Bloom, thrown off by the sudden question. While Rarity switching the drinks meant Apple Bloom hadn't got any more drunk, she hadn't been convinced to take some coffee, so she was still slightly tipsy. “The way you talk dear. You change how you speak around me. And not just tonight. I’ve noticed it a few months ago.” Rarity was slightly worried. She knew she was often correcting Applejack’s and Rainbow’s grammar, but had she given off the air of a snob? Perhaps Apple Bloom thought she would criticize her more rural dialect. She had once been told she sometimes gave off a ‘better than you’ attitude, and she dearly hoped Apple Bloom didn't see her that way. “What? I do?” Rarity nodded. “Umm, I mean, Ah do?” Apple Bloom slouched down, caught. “Sorry, it’s just, you’re so prim and proper. Sometimes, when Ah hear ya talk, it makes me feel … Ah dunno, maybe sometimes Ah just wish Ah could be a little more like you, and a little less like myself. You’re so confident, and lively, and people flock to you. Ah know it’s silly ….” “It’s not silly, dear.” Rarity used her magic to give Apple Bloom’s hair a tussle from across the room, and the Earth pony blushed, pulling AJ’s hat over her face. “But it’s important to be who you are. Envy is one thing, but changing yourself is another. Trust me, I know.” Rarity thought back on all the silly little things she had done in the past. “Just be yourself dear. After all, there is no one else you can ever be.” Both ponies sat in uncomfortable silence for a few minutes, each lost in self reflection. Eventually, it was Apple Bloom who broke the silence. “You’re experienced with love, right? I mean, you know all about it?” The question caught Rarity off guard, but she quickly regained her composure. “Well, that’s not entirely true dear. I’m experienced in looking for love, yes. And I have experience in romance and dating. However, love, well romantic love, isn’t something I've dealt with much.” Rarity knew she had dated more than any other member of her group of friends, and she also had the reputation as the hopeless romantic of the group. Unfortunately, while some of her other friends had found their special somepony, that chance had never found Rarity. “Truthfully? I've only ever been in love once.” And it hurt. Losing that love hurt, more than any other pain she’d ever known. Yet if you asked her if she would put herself through it all again, knowing the outcome, she’d do so without a second thought. But Apple Bloom didn't need to know any of that. Right now, she looked like she needed advice. “But I know all about courtship. I’d be more than willing to offer you advice.” Apple Bloom sat silent, staring intently at her hooves as she played with them. “Come now, there’s nothing to be embarrassed about!” Slowly, Apple Bloom opened up. “So you think I should try and be myself? Even if that pony seems out of my reach?” “Especially if they're out of your reach! What you should do at the very least is offer them a chance to get to know you. Just be open about how you feel, that’s the first step.” Suddenly, the floodgates opened. “But what if Ah don’t deserve them? What if Ah mess things up? What if Ah mess things up, not just with her, but with all mah friends? What if she doesn't like mares? What if Ah say something stupid, and then…” “She?” asked Rarity. Apple Bloom froze. Her eyes were caught in Rarity’s like a prey staring down a carnivore about to eat it. Rarity thought she even stopped breathing for a second. “Apple Bloom dear … are you a lesbian?” The silence just hung between them, drawing out uncomfortably. “.... maybe?” “Maybe? You’re maybe a lesbian? Are you a bisexual?” Applebloom answered hesitantly. “... no. Ah pretty sure Ah’m a filly fooler. Ah don’t think Ah like stallions, never have and probably never will.” Rarity digested this new information. Certainly, of all the CMC, Apple Bloom was probably the least likely member Rarity would have considered a lesbian. For a while, she thought Scootaloo would become one. Not because Scoots seemed to have any inclination that way, more that when Rainbow came out she wouldn't put it past Scoot to declare herself gay just to be like her. And of course there was the matter of her own sister. Sweetie was in a relationship at the moment. Could this be why Sweetie and Scootaloo were complaining of never seeing Apple Bloom recently? Was she hiding it from them? “I suppose you've not told your friends yet?” Silence answered clear enough for Rarity. “Can I ask dear, is it somepony I know?” Suddenly Apple Bloom was blushing such a deep shade of pink, even Pinkie Pie would be hard pressed to match her. “Wha? No! Ah, uh, Ah mean, she’s not even from Ponyville! Yeah, she’s from Canterlot!” “Well, can I ask about her? I mean if it’s not too personal? I promise, discretion is my middle name.” She gave Bloom a little wink and a small nudge with her magic. It looked like Apple Bloom wanted to say something, but no words came out. She stopped and took a deep breath, shaking her head as if to clear out her thoughts. “Well, uh, she’s a fancy mare. Y’know, real high class. I, uh, Ah met her when Ah was, umm, delivering apples up that way. She was generous with her bits, never arguin’ over the price. She had class, but she was also kind. Never judged me for mah accent. Despite having stallions fawning over her, she always made time for her friends first and foremost! She has a coat that models would kill for, and even her magic is elegant and beautiful in it's own way.” Rarity could tell just from the sound of her voice that Apple Bloom was clearly smitten with this other mare. Although, for some reason, she thought she could detect something strange about Apple Bloom when she denied that she knew the mare in question. Then again, Rarity knew many of the upper class ponies in Canterlot. Perhaps she just doesn't want to admit who it is yet? “She sounds truly wonderful darling!” Apple Bloom just blushed again, and stared at the floor, slowly sipping what was left of the wine. “Does she have a nice rump?” asked Rarity teasingly. *Pffffftttt!* spat Apple Bloom, spraying her wine all over carpet. Rarity was suddenly glad she knew a magic cleaning spell or two. A flick of the horn, and the wine stains were gone, along with most of Apple Bloom’s dignity. Still, perhaps that was a bit too mean on the young filly in love. Celestia knows how she got when she was younger. Still, it seemed like Apple Bloom was shy about this subject in particular, which was strange considering she was usually such an outgoing pony. “Sorry dear, just teasing. I shouldn't have, I apologize.” Rarity floated Apple Bloom’s glass and her own away into the kitchen. “Although judging by your reaction, I’ll assume she does.” Apple Bloom just blushed even deeper and nodded. She was now trying to bury her face in Applejack’s hat. “I know you’re having trouble telling her how you feel. And while I do suggest you do tell her, you’ll also need to tell your family and friends eventually too. You do know that, don’t you?” “....yeah,” was all that came out of Apple Bloom. Rarity sat up and moved over to the young mare, lifted her head up, and embraced her in a deep hug. “Your friends love you, and you liking mares rather than stallions won’t change that. Your family is more understanding than you think. After all, isn't there two ponies in your family who you know will never judge you, and will always accept you? And you also have me and the girls for what it’s worth. You’ll have the elements of harmony rooting for you.” She gave Bloom’s neck a nuzzle. “And until you’re ready, I’ll be here in-case you need somepony to talk to.” After allowing herself to accept the hug, eventually Apple Bloom broke it off. “Thanks for everything Rarity. Boy, Ah should get going. AJ and Mac are probably wonderin’ where Ah got off to. But, uh, we should totally hang out some time! Wait, not me an’ you, Ah mean like me and you and AJ and Sweetie and Scoots and Rainbow! Yeah, we should totally do that sometime.” Rarity considered the offer. While she was currently busy with orders from all over, she hadn't spent much time with Sweetie at all since she started dating. A night out with the others sounded like good fun. “What say we go out this weekend? I've overheard Scootaloo going on and on about this new club she wants Sweetie to go with her to. We could go there? If you ask Applejack, I can ask the others.” Applebloom looked up at Rarity. "Thanks, that sounds great." Rarity smiled back at Applebloom. "Then it's a date!" FamilyFamily It was early in the afternoon when Apple Bloom had finally shown herself in the kitchen. She was still suffering the effects of an all night drinking binge. Unlike the typical hangover, this one was less pounding headache and more upset stomach. She was both ravenously hungry and physically repulsed by foods at the same time. Apple Bloom was warmly greeted by Cheerliee as the mare busied herself at the oven. Her offer of a bowl of porridge was quickly shot down, but eventually she managed to convince Bloom to choke down some tea and buttered toast. Cheerilee let her eat in silence, but once she was finished, she came and sat next to Apple Bloom. “So how was it last night? Applejack was pretty upset with you coming home in the state you were in last night.” Bloom facehoofed. “Umm, that bad?” she asked sheepishly. “Well, you weren’t completely drunk. But you did completely miss dinner, and when you finally showed up, you were wearing Applejack’s hat and humming to yourself while smelling of wine.” Cheerilee rubbed her eyes. “If I were still your teacher, I’d have more than a few words to say to you. But I know you’re a young woman. It’s not my place to say anything …” Well great. Cheerilee was disappointed with her. All those years of her as a sister rather than a teacher, but Apple Bloom still hated the feeling of Cheerilee saying she was disappointed. “Where are AJ and Big Mac?” Applebloom asked sheepishly. Cheerilee stretched and yawned. “Well, Applejack was still mad, but Big Mac convinced her to let you sleep in, since this was the first time you’d done this. They done all our work for you already, and they finished their own about an hour ago. Big Mac should be checking books out at the library and Applejack said she was going to visit Fluttershy.” Apple Bloom sighed in relief. She wouldn’t have to face those two just quite yet. “Ah guess ah lucked out then, huh?” Cheerilee raised an eyebrow at that statement, but said no more, only sipping on her tea. “Listen, Ah think Ah’m going to head on out for a while, clear my head. I’m still a little hung over.” “Is this about you and the other members of the CMC?” Apple Bloom froze in her tracks, halfway out of her chair. “I’m not blind you know. I’ve known you three as long as you’ve known each other, and it’s clear to me something is going on between you. Was last night something to do with it?” Bloom wanted to quickly deny this, but she knew that was a lie. Her feelings for Rarity had affected her relationship with Sweetie, she had slowly drawn away from her best friend. And due to the slowly forming rift between them, her other best friend Scoots was troubled. “Kinda. Partly.” “Apple Bloom.” Cheerilee reached out and put her hoof over Bloom’s leg. “If you ever need to talk, know that I’m there for you. I’m part of your family, you can trust me.” “Your family is more understanding than you think. After all, isn't there two ponies in your family who you know will never judge you, and will always accept you?” Perhaps not Cheerilee, but …. there were some other family members she could tell. Ones she knew would keep a secret from AJ and Big Mac. “Ah’ll work on it. But first, Ah’m heading to the Apple Scrumpy Bar.” Cheerilee looks shocked. “What?!? You’re going back to a bar already???” “Yeah, and don’t tell AJ or Mac! I’ll be back soon, Ah promise. Just gotta swing by Sugar Cube Corner first.” Before Cheerilee could protest or get up to stop her, Apple Bloom was out the door. In a quiet corner of Ponyville sat a small bar. Since Ponyville was a quiet town it didn't have many nightclubs or bars, and this one was the only one that had opened up in town in recent years. Being a weekday, the club was pretty empty. A group of 4 stallions knocked back beers while talking about sport, and the usual group of students were scattered about the bar, most of them from Canterlot colleges in town for the cheap drinks during the week. The owner sat behind the bar, polishing glasses. A cocktail glass filled with green liquid graced her flank, standing out nicely against her brown fur. Her pink hair matched the fur of the pony who had been shoved into the seat in-front of her. "So cuz, any reason why you burst in the door dragging Pinkie behind you?" asked Babs. "Yeah, I was just in the middle of baking. What's so important that it couldn't wait? Ohhhhh! Is it a surprise party?" “Sorry, no party this time. Just wanted to make sure you were here Pinkie. Ah needed to talk to both of you,” said Apple Bloom, sweating. “Gimme a vodka appletini, shaken, not stirred.” While Babs wasn’t sure about giving her cousin alcohol while she already looked a little drunk, her natural bartender instinct kicked in and soon a glass found it’s way to under Apple Bloom’s nose, complete with a slice of cox’s apple on the side as a garnish. Babs watched as her cousin downed the glass in one swift gulp, which was out of the ordinary to say the least. Bloom rarely drank, and when she did, she was often the sensible one who sipped at the same drink throughout the night. “Pinkie, Babs,” she began. “Y’all are mah kin, an’ Ah got something Ah need to get out. Ah'm not gonna beat about the bushel. Ah'll get right to the point. Ah should just spit it right out! So here it is! This is the thing!" "APPLE BLOOM! Get to the point!" Apple Bloom recoiled as her cousin shouted at her. "Eh heh, sorry." Pinkie placed a reassuring hoof on Bloom's shoulder, and Babs poured her another drink. "Ok. Deep breath." Apple Bloom drew in a long deep breath, then spat it out. "Ah'm a filly fooler." ...... "Well, ain't y'all gonna say something?" asked Apple Bloom, breaking the silence. "After all that fuss, I was expecting something much worse." Bloom blinked at Babs, a little thrown off. "Hey, I'm an Apple-kin, but I'm not like that. I know what the family will say when they find out. But you know me better than that cuz. I ain't gonna judge you. As long as you're happy, I'm happy." Bloom reached over and hugged her cousin. At least one member of the CMC knew now. "What about you Pinkie? You're my cousin too." "Well yeah, but I'm not really an Apple, I'm a Pie first and foremost. And Nana Pie raised us so we'd never judge a pony by who they loved. Not even Maud when she went through that phase where she dated a boulder for a week." Apple Bloom wanted to be shocked by this news, but frankly she'd met Maud once. "Thanks Pinkie. Ah guess it was silly of me worrying about you accepting me. You love everybody." She gave Pinkie a hug. "Yeppers I do. And if I was going to not like you because you were gay, I'd have stopped liking you ages ago." Apple Bloom jumped out her seat. "Wait, you mean you knew?" "Well yeah, didn't everybody?" asked Pinkie innocently. "NNNOOOOO!!!!!" yelled Bloom frustratedly. A few of the bar patrons looked over at the trio, wondering what the conversation was about, but a quick glare from Babs suddenly caused everyone to be more interested in the contents of their glasses. "Oh, sorry, I thought everypony new, which was why I never mentioned it. I could tell because I have gaydar." "You're gay Pinkie?" asked Babs. "No." She pulled out a small metal box with a spinning dish rotating at the top and a light on the side. "I bought this from Flim and Flam." She held it towards Apple Bloom, and it beeped quietly while the light flashed white and the dish spun rapidly, then as she moved it towards Babs Seed the dish spun slower and the light now flashed red. Babs looked doubtful. "Pinkie, I'm pretty sure you can't judge sexuality based on what a gaydar made by the Flimflam brothers says." The pink mare simply smiled and shook her head at this. "Nonsense. Forty percent of the time, it works one hundred percent of the time. Or was it supposed to be sixty?" Babs leaned over the bar, looking annoyed. "Pinkie, that doesn't even ..." "It's Rarity. I'm in love with Rarity" interrupted Apple Bloom. There was a loud crashing as the gaydar dropped to the floor, followed shortly by Pinkie's jaw. "Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!" "You broke both Pinkie's gaydar and her brain. Sweetie's big sis? That stuck up unicorn, really?" Apple Bloom tried to argue that Rarity wasn't as stuck up as Babs thought, but she was interrupted by Pinkie's high pitched squealing. "Eeeeeekkkkk! Best! News! Everrrrrrr! I can't believe Apple Bloom has fallen for none other thmph Rwtthy!" Pinkie had trouble saying the last part as two hooves found their way into her mouth. A few patrons glanced over, but soon lost interest. "Pinkie, I'm pretty sure this isn't news Apple Bloom wants public, especially not for a bunch of strangers to overhear in bar." Babs removed her hoof from Pinkie's mouth. Apple Bloom removed hers. "Yeah Pinkie! C'mon. Now Pinkie promise me you won't tell anyone." The party pony nodded happily. "Okie dokie! Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." She completed the ritual with the corresponding motions that they all knew too well. With that settled, and Pinkie now more in control of herself, the trio eased up a little. They each had a drink and leaned in closer, to continue their conversation in quiet. 'This is awesome,' whispered Pinkie in an ecstatic tone. 'Two of my best friends! When you two get together, it's gonna be the best I'm-so-glad-you-two-are-dating party ever!' Babs felt it was up to her to try and reign in the out-of-control party-pony. 'Calm your jets there Pinkie. Just 'cos Bloom here fell for Rarity doesn't mean she feels the same way. Is she even a filly fooler? I always remember Sweetie telling me she was boy crazy.' She looked over to her cousin to check, and the sad looked on her face was a pretty clear answer. 'Yeah, Rarity is straight. As much as Ah wanna, Ah ain't really got a shot at her.' Bloom smiled sadly. 'Still, even if I can't have her, just talking about it helps me feel a little better.' 'Whoa whoa whoa!' said Pinkie, waving her arms frantically. 'Now which of us is getting carried away here? And here's a hint; not me, you two. It's way too early to throw in the towel. You can't give up on here without trying! And you're also wrong about Rarity.' 'Wait a minute, what do you mean wrong about Rarity?' asked Bloom. 'Well I mean sure, she isn't gay, but that doesn't mean she's straight!' Apple Bloom looked a little lost, but Babs picked it up straight away. A grin started to spread across her face as she realized. 'You're saying what I think you're saying, ain't you Pinkie?' 'Wait, what?' asked Bloom. 'Yeppers! Rarity is bisexual! So Apple Bloom totally needs to try and court her!' The realization hit Apple Bloom full force. 'Ah have a chance? Ah have a chance! Consarn it, now Ah wish that date we made was a proper one.' 'You made a date with Rarity?' 'Well, more like a girls night out. It was suppose ta be me an AJ, Rarity and Sweets, and of course Scoots and Dash. She says the six of us don't hang out as much as we used to.' As Apple Bloom told Pinkie about the conversation with Rarity and the planned outing in Canterlot, wheels began to turn in Babs brain. 'Perhaps we can help you out more Apple Bloom. Maybe we can make it so you can get a proper date with Rarity. And if it goes well, you can ask her out, tell her how you feel.' Apple Bloom loooked a bit worried. 'Ah dunno ... what about Applejack? And Ah don't think Ah'd be comfortable flirting with Rarity infront of her sister either.' 'You leave that to me and Pinkie,' Babs assured her cousin. Luckily neither me or Pinks is the Element of Honesty. Ok, here's what we do...' Author's Note Sorry for butchering Pinkie Pie, I just can't seem to write her. Luckily Babs isn't as well defined so she's a little easier to write for.
Can't SayCan’t Say As Apple Bloom tilled the field, her mind was in turmoil. Big Mac had once told her that the reason he liked to till the fields was that it gave him a chance to be alone with his thoughts. And this was the same reason she hated it. Whenever she had time to think, her mind kept coming back to the same thoughts, over and over again. It had started as a wondering a few months ago. When Twist had gotten engaged, she slowly found herself wondering if she’d ever find her own special somepony. After all, Big Mac had settled down with Miss Cheerlilee. Maybe Applejack would start looking soon. Yet throughout her teenage years up till now, Apple Bloom couldn’t ever remember being interested in any colt that way. And when she did try and force herself to look for somepony, she had noticed it. She had noticed that her eyes would eventually end up looking over the mares, not the stallions. For weeks, she had forced herself to look for a stallion she could picture herself with, but time and time again, she ended up back at the fairer sex. More specifically, one mare in particular. While normally that would be no issue, especially not in such a progressive town like Ponyville, it did present a problem for Apple Bloom. The Apple family were a traditional family. They married mare and stallion, and they always tried to keep it mostly Earth Ponies. It wasn’t that they were against inter-tribal marriage. Apple Bloom had a few cousins that were Pegasus or Unicorn. She also remembered that during family photos, they’d had to cover up their horns. It was just unsettling, seeing the way some of her family considered an Apple from the other tribes less of a family member. And she had an Uncle who had a taste for stallions in armour, but the first time she had heard this, as a little filly she wanted to go over and ask him what this meant, but Applejack and Macintosh had steered her away. The pressure was still there, to marry an Earth Pony and raise up more little Earth Pony colts and fillies for the clan. It was the done thing. So imagine how hard it would be to admit to all of your extended family that not only did you want to get married to another mare, but one that wasn’t even an Earth Pony. As far as she could tell, no Apple had ever done this. Fallen for both the wrong sex and the wrong clan, well, in their eyes. Or maybe they had, and they were expelled from the Apple family tree? She wasn’t sure. Maybe she should just count herself lucky she had fallen for a pony at all! Imagine the looks on their faces if she brought a Donkey or a Gryphon home. As the sun set and Apple Bloom finished her work, she steeled herself. She was going to do it this time. She would wait till Big Mac and Applejack were inside, then she’d admit she was a filly fooler. Cheerilee was likely out of school by now, and if Apple Bloom came out, she was sure at least her former teacher turned sister-in-law would support her. So Big Mac would come round to it eventually. Then there was AJ …. As she entered the farm house, Applebloom felt like her throat was clamming up. She found her footsteps getting shorter and shorter, as if she was trying to prolong how long she could remain outside. They were all sitting at the table, not looking her way. Maybe she could just not say anything until they were looking over here. Could she really do it this time? Could she come clean? Apple Bloom took a deep breath, then tried just spitting it out it out. “Ahm ah f..” “Hey Applebloom, ah need a favour” interrupted her sister. Apple Bloom faltered. It wasn't like AJ to go around just interrupting. Then she realised that she had probably been so quiet that Applejack never even noticed her talking. Apple Bloom’s face fell. She had missed her chance. She couldn't do it now. Applejack turned round to face her little sister, with her hat in her hooves. “Ah tore my Stetson while working the fields. You mind running it on over to Carousel Boutique for me?” Apple Bloom nearly choked. “Huh, me?” she asked, a flutter in her voice. Luckily it seemed nopony noticed. She was just glad she had finished working. Looking at her, they’d assume the reason she was sweating so much right now was due to the heat. “But ahm all dirty. Ah’ve not even had a shower yet.” “Yeah, but ah’m meeting Fluttershy to go give the vampire fruit bats their annual check-up, and Big Mac and Cheerilee have an appointment. ‘Sides, we have a couple extra bits left over from the harvest. Ah was thinking maybe you could pick yourself up a new bow. Your old one is looking a little long in the tooth.” Oh great, another reason why she didn't want to go now. She couldn't show up covered in dirt AND with a messy ribbon. Cheerliee leaned forward. “Sorry Apple Bloom. I’d offer to do it, but we’re seeing the doctor today. Since we were going to start trying to start our family soon, we booked a check-up to make sure everything is okay with the both of us.” Apple Bloom slumped down, defeated. She couldn’t argue with that. She knew how much this meant to them both. “Okay, but can ah at least wash my hooves? You know what’ll happen if I drag any mud in there.” Applejack chuckled. “Yeah, true enough. Rarity’d tan yer hide and bend yer ear right proper for that.” “Eyup” agreed Big Mac. Applejack rustled her sister’s hair and handed her the hat as she moved past her to the door. “Thanks. I’ll meet y’all back here tonight for dinner. Fresh apple pie and cream tonight. And ah expect y’all back by 6. Don’t get too distracted just cos you’ll see Sweetie Belle.” “Right … Sweetie Belle” muttered Apple Bloom, shaking her head as she dashed into the kitchen to quickly wash her face and hooves. Once her coat was spotless she gave her mane a quick brush as she looked in the mirror. Applejack was right. This bow was getting a bit raggedy. Not wanting to show up to Carousel Boutique looking like something Opal had dragged in, she took it off. “Here Granny, can you watch this for me?” she asked, tossing it onto the kitchen table before grabbing AJ’s Stetson and running out the door. “KayThanksBye” Not wanting to be stuck in her own head again, Apple Bloom had quickly flagged down fellow ex-Cutie Mark Crusader Scootaloo for a lift. When the trio had gotten their cutie marks years ago, Scootaloo had decided to put her scooter skills to good use, and she had become the local town taxi, with a rickshaw tied to the back of her scooter, taking people where they needed to go and fast, just like she used to do with Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. As she got close, Apple Bloom heard Scootaloo whistle. “Hey, you got your hair loose. Lookin’ good. You trying to catch the boys eyes, looking like that?” “No, don’t be… of course not” protested Apple Bloom as she climbed into the back of the rickshaw. “Ah’m heading to Rarity’s to buy a new bow, and get Applejack’s hat fixed.” Scootaloo frowned as she buzzed her little wings, the cab speeding off. “Aww, shame. I was hoping maybe you and Sweetie wanted to go out tonight. Apparently there is this hot new club in Canterlot opening, and it’s run by an ex-Wonderbolt. Dash got me some tickets, and I was hoping we’d go out Crusading for some dates tonight. It’s been ages since the three of us have got together.” Indeed it had. Even since Apple Bloom’s revelation about herself, she’d felt uncomfortable around Sweetie. She’d tried her best to hide it, but of course Scoots had picked up on it. “Sorry, I have a family dinner tonight, and I’m just not up for clubbing tonight.” It looked like Scootaloo was going to say something, but thought better of it. The rest of the ride went on in uncomfortable silence. As Scootaloo helped Apple Bloom out the rickshaw, she placed a hoof on the farm pony’s shoulder. “Look. I know I’m not the best when it comes to stuff to do with feelings, but if you need to talk about something, I’m here for you, ok? Day or night, whatever it is, you want to get something off your chest, just come to me.” Apple Bloom felt comforted by that. “Thanks. I may take you up on that. I know I’ve been a bit distant lately. I’m just ….” She couldn’t finish. She couldn’t even tell Scootaloo, one of her closest friends who she had known for years. Apple Bloom felt pathetic. “It’s ok.” Scoots gave her a nudge on the chin and a wink. “Don’t force yourself. When you need me, I’ll be there. And the offer for tonight is still open!” Scootaloo suddenly found herself in an embrace, as Apple Bloom hugged her. “I know. Thanks.” Eventually they broke apart, and Scootaloo zipped off to find another fare, leaving Scootaloo to walk the rest of the path up to Carousel Boutique. As she got close, her knees nearly failed her. She briefly considered turning and running, but another part of her wanted to rush over. It was funny how sometimes the people you want to see the most are the hardest to face. Apple Bloom heard the little bell tingle as she pushed open the door and entered Carousel Boutique. She smiled as she came face to face with the object of her affections. “Hello, and welcome to Carousel Boutique where every garment is chic, unique and magnifique! Oh, it’s you Apple Bloom darling! How are things?” said Rarity, the Element of Generosity and most beautiful pony in Ponyville.
Just To Be NearJust To Be Near “Well don’t just stand there, darling. Come on in.” The beautiful unicorn motioned her inside with a happy smile and a quick hug that left Apple Bloom feeling a bit more flushed than she should be feeling. “I’m afraid Sweetie isn’t in at the moment. A shame. I know you two haven’t seen much of each other lately.” “Well actually, ah was looking fer ...” Apple Bloom coughed as she caught herself. “Ahem, I mean I was looking for you Rarity. I need your, uh ... professional skills, that’s it!” She gave a chuckle that she hoped didn’t sound too nervous. Rarity cast a quick glance over Apple Bloom, critically examining her the way she would all her clients. “No need to be embarrassed Apple Bloom. I know Applejack jokingly teases me about my fashion sense, but I’m always here to help someone in the shopping needs.” “Ahm not embarrassed!” the farmpony spat out. “Fashion is a fine thing.” Instinctively she brought up Applejack’s hat and tried to cover her face with it. “I mean, it’s not as important to us as it is to you, but I don’t mean to belittle you or what you do Rarity.” The white unicorn laughed it off. “I know darling. And you know I love and respect the work that goes on at Sweet Apple Acres, and all you do for the town and the young fillies and colts. Each to our own.” A brilliant blue aura filled Apple Bloom’s vision as the stetson was telekinetically lifted off of her head. “A patch job for AJ I take it?” Already she was turning it over, and examining the garment from multiple angles, making notes to herself of the work ahead. “Uh, yeah” Apple Bloom nodded, annoyed she no longer had anything to hide behind. She quickly glanced about the room. The front of Carousel Boutique was Rarity’s showroom, her front store. It displayed her main work, all her finished garments up on rails ready to be picked up. While most of her work was custom orders, it must have paid to have some examples of her own work up front to entice customers in. All of the dresses currently out were Rarity’s summer range, and each was far more elegant than anything Apple Bloom could ever get away with wearing. Everything from boots to top hats, all studded in gems. Gems were in this season. It seemed ever since Rarity made it big, she could make gems in if she wanted to. “And maybe I was thinking of picking up something for myself while I was here too? A new bow to make me look pretty?” Rarity’s attention was suddenly drawn away from the hat and had focused solely on Apple Bloom. The fashionista squeed. “Fantastic! Let’s see how much of your inner beauty we can bring out with just one accessory. I love a challenge dear. For you, we need to focus on not trying to overshadow your own natural beauty.” Rarity thought she was beautiful? Even if Rarity could see the beauty in anything, it still made Apple Bloom happy. She always thought of herself as plain, and being in the shadow of someone naturally graceful like Sweetie, or someone with an amazingly athletic body like Scoots, she never expected much attention. And now the woman of her dreams was calling her beautiful. If only she was bolder, she would have leapt onto Rarity right then and there, and planted a kiss upon the mare. Instead, the best the farm pony could manage was a whispered “Thanks” and a blush. A brush was soon levitated over, and Rarity began to brush out Apple Bloom’s mane, smoothing it out and untangling it. It was such a gentle act, nothing like the way Applejack would hastily brush her mane something fierce when they were in a hurry. It was soft, and gentle. Almost caring... “Your hair is such a brilliant shade of amaranth darling” “Amaranth? It is?” “It’s gorgeous darling. The only issue is, not many colours go with it. Other than the shade of crimson of your original ribbon, I’d maybe suggest a pale yellow, or possibly even a light blue if you really want to stand out and catch those stallions eyes.” “Enope” she said, mimicking her brother’s speech. “I don’t really want to catch any stallions eyes. I’ll stick with a similar colour.” Rarity raised an eyebrow in response to that, and for a second Applebloom thought maybe Rarity had picked up on that, but the fashionista just carried on like nothing was out of the ordinary. Rarity soon brought out her glasses as she sorted through possible ribbons. Apple Bloom couldn't deny the fact that Rarity had a certain charm when she wore those glasses. She looked truly breathtaking when she was in her element. The only time she looked even better was the very few rare times she wore her mane down, an occurrence which mostly happened when Rarity got her mane wet. Several ribbons of various shades of red floated over, and Rarity cast a critical eye over all of them, holding a few up in-front of Apple Bloom to see how they went with her colours. Eventually settling on one, Rarity brought it towards her and began tying it in a bow. “Is that diamonds in it?” asked Apple Bloom with a hint of panic. The sides of the ribbon had small gems sewn into them, so that they reflected the light and gave the ribbon a slightly glittering appearance. While AJ had given her money for a new bow, no way in Tartarus could she afford something like this. “Only a few small ones dear. And they are of low quality, just designed to catch the eye with the light. Don’t worry about it. They are too small to be used in one of my main dresses, but on a ribbon, they’ll look wonderful.” “Still, I don’t know if I can accept this….” Apple Bloom felt a hoof upon her shoulder, and looked up into those big beautiful sapphire eyes. “Nonsense. What good is being the Element of Generosity if I can’t spoil my friends rotten now-and-then?” Apple Bloom could swear her face must now be redder than the ribbon she now wore. Apple Bloom decided to dig a little deeper to see how Rarity felt about her. “So you consider me a friend then? I mean, it’s not like we ever spent time together, just the two of us.” Rarity just smiled as she brought AJ’s hat up to eye level. “Well I suppose family would be a better description? I mean you and Sweetie are as close as real sisters.” A lump in Bloom’s chest started to form when she heard Rarity say she thought of her like a sister. “I’ve known you and Scootaloo for many many years, but perhaps you are right. I don’t know either of you personally. We’ve only spent time together as a group. I know you as Sweetie’s friend or as Applejack’s little sister. I suppose the only time we’ve ever had to truly bond with one another was the night of the accident.” An awkward silence fell between the two mares. That horrible night was a night neither of them would ever forget. It was one f the worst nights in Apple Bloom’s life. It was also the same night she fell in love with Rarity, but it wouldn’t be until years later that she’d realise it herself. Shaking her head fiercely, Apple Bloom tried to force those memories away for now. “Yeah, I suppose we didn’t really spend any time together at all, did we?” This was stupid. Really, what was she thinking? She had barely spent any time with Rarity. All she was and all she ever would be was AJ’s little sister and Sweetie’s friend. Rarity must get courted by mares and stallions all across Canterlot. What chance did one silly little farm girl really have in the long run? Did she truly think just because she lived in the same town as her for years, that somehow made her a more eligible partner than a Prince or a Duke? “And that is truly a shame.” Even Rarity seemed a bit downtrodden at this now obvious fact, although Apple Bloom knew it was nothing compared to her own soul-crushing despair. “In-fact, looking at this hat, it’ll likely take me a couple of hours to sew and patch back up, and I’ll be closing the shop up soon. I could use some company while I fix it ...” The white mare gave Apple Bloom such an amazing grin, she had once again unknowingly stolen her heart. “Wait, really?” she asked with probably too much enthusiasm in her voice. Rarity giggles, perhaps noticing it. “Yes really. Unless you have anywhere else to go tonight?” Apple Bloom glanced up at Rarity’s clock, seeing the hands indicating it was now coming up for half-past five. And for the life of her, Bloom couldn’t think of anything else to do for the next few hours but spend some alone time with Rarity. “Enope, can’t think of a thing!” “Excellent!” Rarity beamed. “Why don’t you put the kettle on, then we can retire to the lounge.” Elsewhere, later on, at the outskirts of Ponyville, a table was getting set for dinner at the Apple Farm. An annoyed AJ looked up at the clock. “Dang’it! Where in tarnation has that girl gone off to? Ah told her not to get too wrapped up with Sweetie. Ah swear Granny, youngsters these days ...” Author's Note Slow chapter this time, sorry. The plot will start next chapter! Might be from Rarity's point of view,
Closeness Closeness Closeness It started with tea, while Rarity set to work on the hat. Of course, being such an easy patch job, Rarity was able to mend it while keeping most of her attention on the conversation. After all, playing a good hostess was important. “So me, Twist, Rumble and Dinky are all left waiting on the cue to come on stage, but of course Diamond Tiara never gives it. Next thing we know, she takes the spotlight, and ….” Rarity sipped her tea politely as she listened to Apple Bloom’s story. Rarity had started with some tales about her own childhood and a few stories of her travels with the girls, and now Apple Bloom was sharing her own. “…. and then we look round the corner and see Scootaloo, Snails and Rumble trying to drag her away. Miss Cheerilee was livid!” “Oh, I can imagine,” Rarity chuckled. Of course Rarity knew how Cheerilee got, she had grown up with her, and was in the same year at school as her. “Speaking of your lovely sister-in-law, I have a tale to tell you about her.” This got Apple Bloom’s attention straight away, and the Earth pony sat up straight so she could better hear it. Rarity cleared her throat. “Well, when we were younger, a few of us, Cheerilee, Torch Song, Lotus Blossom and myself, wanted to go see this particular concert in Canterlot. Of course, none of us had tickets, still being students, so Lotus got this idea that she could convince …” “..... next thing I know, I'm holding a receipt for 2000 apples for the Crystal Empire jousting tournament.” The cold tea had been long set aside for glasses of wine, and a touch of pink now gracing the cheeks of Rarity and Apple Bloom. Many years of knowing hard drinkers link Rainbow Dash and Applejack ensured Rarity knew how much wine she could handle, and while she couldn’t compete with those two, it seemed she was faring better than Apple Bloom, who was now swaying slightly, a smile plastered on her face and a glazed look in her eyes. The older mare suspected she must be tipsy, but hadn’t yet reached the level of drunk. As the farm pony continued with her tale, Rarity secretly levitated a bottle of non-alcoholic wine out of her kitchen and made the switch. She floated Applejack’s now fixed hat over, onto Apple Bloom’s head. “Please continue dear.” “Okay, so once I had booked the train tickets…” “So I walk up to them and ask, “What d’y’all think yer doin’?” and they say, ahem,” Apple Bloom coughs and blushes. “I ask, “What do you all think you're doing?” and the big one looks down at me and says…” “Why do you do that?” interrupts Rarity. “Do what?” asks a confused Apple Bloom, thrown off by the sudden question. While Rarity switching the drinks meant Apple Bloom hadn't got any more drunk, she hadn't been convinced to take some coffee, so she was still slightly tipsy. “The way you talk dear. You change how you speak around me. And not just tonight. I’ve noticed it a few months ago.” Rarity was slightly worried. She knew she was often correcting Applejack’s and Rainbow’s grammar, but had she given off the air of a snob? Perhaps Apple Bloom thought she would criticize her more rural dialect. She had once been told she sometimes gave off a ‘better than you’ attitude, and she dearly hoped Apple Bloom didn't see her that way. “What? I do?” Rarity nodded. “Umm, I mean, Ah do?” Apple Bloom slouched down, caught. “Sorry, it’s just, you’re so prim and proper. Sometimes, when Ah hear ya talk, it makes me feel … Ah dunno, maybe sometimes Ah just wish Ah could be a little more like you, and a little less like myself. You’re so confident, and lively, and people flock to you. Ah know it’s silly ….” “It’s not silly, dear.” Rarity used her magic to give Apple Bloom’s hair a tussle from across the room, and the Earth pony blushed, pulling AJ’s hat over her face. “But it’s important to be who you are. Envy is one thing, but changing yourself is another. Trust me, I know.” Rarity thought back on all the silly little things she had done in the past. “Just be yourself dear. After all, there is no one else you can ever be.” Both ponies sat in uncomfortable silence for a few minutes, each lost in self reflection. Eventually, it was Apple Bloom who broke the silence. “You’re experienced with love, right? I mean, you know all about it?” The question caught Rarity off guard, but she quickly regained her composure. “Well, that’s not entirely true dear. I’m experienced in looking for love, yes. And I have experience in romance and dating. However, love, well romantic love, isn’t something I've dealt with much.” Rarity knew she had dated more than any other member of her group of friends, and she also had the reputation as the hopeless romantic of the group. Unfortunately, while some of her other friends had found their special somepony, that chance had never found Rarity. “Truthfully? I've only ever been in love once.” And it hurt. Losing that love hurt, more than any other pain she’d ever known. Yet if you asked her if she would put herself through it all again, knowing the outcome, she’d do so without a second thought. But Apple Bloom didn't need to know any of that. Right now, she looked like she needed advice. “But I know all about courtship. I’d be more than willing to offer you advice.” Apple Bloom sat silent, staring intently at her hooves as she played with them. “Come now, there’s nothing to be embarrassed about!” Slowly, Apple Bloom opened up. “So you think I should try and be myself? Even if that pony seems out of my reach?” “Especially if they're out of your reach! What you should do at the very least is offer them a chance to get to know you. Just be open about how you feel, that’s the first step.” Suddenly, the floodgates opened. “But what if Ah don’t deserve them? What if Ah mess things up? What if Ah mess things up, not just with her, but with all mah friends? What if she doesn't like mares? What if Ah say something stupid, and then…” “She?” asked Rarity. Apple Bloom froze. Her eyes were caught in Rarity’s like a prey staring down a carnivore about to eat it. Rarity thought she even stopped breathing for a second. “Apple Bloom dear … are you a lesbian?” The silence just hung between them, drawing out uncomfortably. “.... maybe?” “Maybe? You’re maybe a lesbian? Are you a bisexual?” Applebloom answered hesitantly. “... no. Ah pretty sure Ah’m a filly fooler. Ah don’t think Ah like stallions, never have and probably never will.” Rarity digested this new information. Certainly, of all the CMC, Apple Bloom was probably the least likely member Rarity would have considered a lesbian. For a while, she thought Scootaloo would become one. Not because Scoots seemed to have any inclination that way, more that when Rainbow came out she wouldn't put it past Scoot to declare herself gay just to be like her. And of course there was the matter of her own sister. Sweetie was in a relationship at the moment. Could this be why Sweetie and Scootaloo were complaining of never seeing Apple Bloom recently? Was she hiding it from them? “I suppose you've not told your friends yet?” Silence answered clear enough for Rarity. “Can I ask dear, is it somepony I know?” Suddenly Apple Bloom was blushing such a deep shade of pink, even Pinkie Pie would be hard pressed to match her. “Wha? No! Ah, uh, Ah mean, she’s not even from Ponyville! Yeah, she’s from Canterlot!” “Well, can I ask about her? I mean if it’s not too personal? I promise, discretion is my middle name.” She gave Bloom a little wink and a small nudge with her magic. It looked like Apple Bloom wanted to say something, but no words came out. She stopped and took a deep breath, shaking her head as if to clear out her thoughts. “Well, uh, she’s a fancy mare. Y’know, real high class. I, uh, Ah met her when Ah was, umm, delivering apples up that way. She was generous with her bits, never arguin’ over the price. She had class, but she was also kind. Never judged me for mah accent. Despite having stallions fawning over her, she always made time for her friends first and foremost! She has a coat that models would kill for, and even her magic is elegant and beautiful in it's own way.” Rarity could tell just from the sound of her voice that Apple Bloom was clearly smitten with this other mare. Although, for some reason, she thought she could detect something strange about Apple Bloom when she denied that she knew the mare in question. Then again, Rarity knew many of the upper class ponies in Canterlot. Perhaps she just doesn't want to admit who it is yet? “She sounds truly wonderful darling!” Apple Bloom just blushed again, and stared at the floor, slowly sipping what was left of the wine. “Does she have a nice rump?” asked Rarity teasingly. *Pffffftttt!* spat Apple Bloom, spraying her wine all over carpet. Rarity was suddenly glad she knew a magic cleaning spell or two. A flick of the horn, and the wine stains were gone, along with most of Apple Bloom’s dignity. Still, perhaps that was a bit too mean on the young filly in love. Celestia knows how she got when she was younger. Still, it seemed like Apple Bloom was shy about this subject in particular, which was strange considering she was usually such an outgoing pony. “Sorry dear, just teasing. I shouldn't have, I apologize.” Rarity floated Apple Bloom’s glass and her own away into the kitchen. “Although judging by your reaction, I’ll assume she does.” Apple Bloom just blushed even deeper and nodded. She was now trying to bury her face in Applejack’s hat. “I know you’re having trouble telling her how you feel. And while I do suggest you do tell her, you’ll also need to tell your family and friends eventually too. You do know that, don’t you?” “....yeah,” was all that came out of Apple Bloom. Rarity sat up and moved over to the young mare, lifted her head up, and embraced her in a deep hug. “Your friends love you, and you liking mares rather than stallions won’t change that. Your family is more understanding than you think. After all, isn't there two ponies in your family who you know will never judge you, and will always accept you? And you also have me and the girls for what it’s worth. You’ll have the elements of harmony rooting for you.” She gave Bloom’s neck a nuzzle. “And until you’re ready, I’ll be here in-case you need somepony to talk to.” After allowing herself to accept the hug, eventually Apple Bloom broke it off. “Thanks for everything Rarity. Boy, Ah should get going. AJ and Mac are probably wonderin’ where Ah got off to. But, uh, we should totally hang out some time! Wait, not me an’ you, Ah mean like me and you and AJ and Sweetie and Scoots and Rainbow! Yeah, we should totally do that sometime.” Rarity considered the offer. While she was currently busy with orders from all over, she hadn't spent much time with Sweetie at all since she started dating. A night out with the others sounded like good fun. “What say we go out this weekend? I've overheard Scootaloo going on and on about this new club she wants Sweetie to go with her to. We could go there? If you ask Applejack, I can ask the others.” Applebloom looked up at Rarity. "Thanks, that sounds great." Rarity smiled back at Applebloom. "Then it's a date!"
FamilyFamily It was early in the afternoon when Apple Bloom had finally shown herself in the kitchen. She was still suffering the effects of an all night drinking binge. Unlike the typical hangover, this one was less pounding headache and more upset stomach. She was both ravenously hungry and physically repulsed by foods at the same time. Apple Bloom was warmly greeted by Cheerliee as the mare busied herself at the oven. Her offer of a bowl of porridge was quickly shot down, but eventually she managed to convince Bloom to choke down some tea and buttered toast. Cheerilee let her eat in silence, but once she was finished, she came and sat next to Apple Bloom. “So how was it last night? Applejack was pretty upset with you coming home in the state you were in last night.” Bloom facehoofed. “Umm, that bad?” she asked sheepishly. “Well, you weren’t completely drunk. But you did completely miss dinner, and when you finally showed up, you were wearing Applejack’s hat and humming to yourself while smelling of wine.” Cheerilee rubbed her eyes. “If I were still your teacher, I’d have more than a few words to say to you. But I know you’re a young woman. It’s not my place to say anything …” Well great. Cheerilee was disappointed with her. All those years of her as a sister rather than a teacher, but Apple Bloom still hated the feeling of Cheerilee saying she was disappointed. “Where are AJ and Big Mac?” Applebloom asked sheepishly. Cheerilee stretched and yawned. “Well, Applejack was still mad, but Big Mac convinced her to let you sleep in, since this was the first time you’d done this. They done all our work for you already, and they finished their own about an hour ago. Big Mac should be checking books out at the library and Applejack said she was going to visit Fluttershy.” Apple Bloom sighed in relief. She wouldn’t have to face those two just quite yet. “Ah guess ah lucked out then, huh?” Cheerilee raised an eyebrow at that statement, but said no more, only sipping on her tea. “Listen, Ah think Ah’m going to head on out for a while, clear my head. I’m still a little hung over.” “Is this about you and the other members of the CMC?” Apple Bloom froze in her tracks, halfway out of her chair. “I’m not blind you know. I’ve known you three as long as you’ve known each other, and it’s clear to me something is going on between you. Was last night something to do with it?” Bloom wanted to quickly deny this, but she knew that was a lie. Her feelings for Rarity had affected her relationship with Sweetie, she had slowly drawn away from her best friend. And due to the slowly forming rift between them, her other best friend Scoots was troubled. “Kinda. Partly.” “Apple Bloom.” Cheerilee reached out and put her hoof over Bloom’s leg. “If you ever need to talk, know that I’m there for you. I’m part of your family, you can trust me.” “Your family is more understanding than you think. After all, isn't there two ponies in your family who you know will never judge you, and will always accept you?” Perhaps not Cheerilee, but …. there were some other family members she could tell. Ones she knew would keep a secret from AJ and Big Mac. “Ah’ll work on it. But first, Ah’m heading to the Apple Scrumpy Bar.” Cheerilee looks shocked. “What?!? You’re going back to a bar already???” “Yeah, and don’t tell AJ or Mac! I’ll be back soon, Ah promise. Just gotta swing by Sugar Cube Corner first.” Before Cheerilee could protest or get up to stop her, Apple Bloom was out the door. In a quiet corner of Ponyville sat a small bar. Since Ponyville was a quiet town it didn't have many nightclubs or bars, and this one was the only one that had opened up in town in recent years. Being a weekday, the club was pretty empty. A group of 4 stallions knocked back beers while talking about sport, and the usual group of students were scattered about the bar, most of them from Canterlot colleges in town for the cheap drinks during the week. The owner sat behind the bar, polishing glasses. A cocktail glass filled with green liquid graced her flank, standing out nicely against her brown fur. Her pink hair matched the fur of the pony who had been shoved into the seat in-front of her. "So cuz, any reason why you burst in the door dragging Pinkie behind you?" asked Babs. "Yeah, I was just in the middle of baking. What's so important that it couldn't wait? Ohhhhh! Is it a surprise party?" “Sorry, no party this time. Just wanted to make sure you were here Pinkie. Ah needed to talk to both of you,” said Apple Bloom, sweating. “Gimme a vodka appletini, shaken, not stirred.” While Babs wasn’t sure about giving her cousin alcohol while she already looked a little drunk, her natural bartender instinct kicked in and soon a glass found it’s way to under Apple Bloom’s nose, complete with a slice of cox’s apple on the side as a garnish. Babs watched as her cousin downed the glass in one swift gulp, which was out of the ordinary to say the least. Bloom rarely drank, and when she did, she was often the sensible one who sipped at the same drink throughout the night. “Pinkie, Babs,” she began. “Y’all are mah kin, an’ Ah got something Ah need to get out. Ah'm not gonna beat about the bushel. Ah'll get right to the point. Ah should just spit it right out! So here it is! This is the thing!" "APPLE BLOOM! Get to the point!" Apple Bloom recoiled as her cousin shouted at her. "Eh heh, sorry." Pinkie placed a reassuring hoof on Bloom's shoulder, and Babs poured her another drink. "Ok. Deep breath." Apple Bloom drew in a long deep breath, then spat it out. "Ah'm a filly fooler." ...... "Well, ain't y'all gonna say something?" asked Apple Bloom, breaking the silence. "After all that fuss, I was expecting something much worse." Bloom blinked at Babs, a little thrown off. "Hey, I'm an Apple-kin, but I'm not like that. I know what the family will say when they find out. But you know me better than that cuz. I ain't gonna judge you. As long as you're happy, I'm happy." Bloom reached over and hugged her cousin. At least one member of the CMC knew now. "What about you Pinkie? You're my cousin too." "Well yeah, but I'm not really an Apple, I'm a Pie first and foremost. And Nana Pie raised us so we'd never judge a pony by who they loved. Not even Maud when she went through that phase where she dated a boulder for a week." Apple Bloom wanted to be shocked by this news, but frankly she'd met Maud once. "Thanks Pinkie. Ah guess it was silly of me worrying about you accepting me. You love everybody." She gave Pinkie a hug. "Yeppers I do. And if I was going to not like you because you were gay, I'd have stopped liking you ages ago." Apple Bloom jumped out her seat. "Wait, you mean you knew?" "Well yeah, didn't everybody?" asked Pinkie innocently. "NNNOOOOO!!!!!" yelled Bloom frustratedly. A few of the bar patrons looked over at the trio, wondering what the conversation was about, but a quick glare from Babs suddenly caused everyone to be more interested in the contents of their glasses. "Oh, sorry, I thought everypony new, which was why I never mentioned it. I could tell because I have gaydar." "You're gay Pinkie?" asked Babs. "No." She pulled out a small metal box with a spinning dish rotating at the top and a light on the side. "I bought this from Flim and Flam." She held it towards Apple Bloom, and it beeped quietly while the light flashed white and the dish spun rapidly, then as she moved it towards Babs Seed the dish spun slower and the light now flashed red. Babs looked doubtful. "Pinkie, I'm pretty sure you can't judge sexuality based on what a gaydar made by the Flimflam brothers says." The pink mare simply smiled and shook her head at this. "Nonsense. Forty percent of the time, it works one hundred percent of the time. Or was it supposed to be sixty?" Babs leaned over the bar, looking annoyed. "Pinkie, that doesn't even ..." "It's Rarity. I'm in love with Rarity" interrupted Apple Bloom. There was a loud crashing as the gaydar dropped to the floor, followed shortly by Pinkie's jaw. "Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!" "You broke both Pinkie's gaydar and her brain. Sweetie's big sis? That stuck up unicorn, really?" Apple Bloom tried to argue that Rarity wasn't as stuck up as Babs thought, but she was interrupted by Pinkie's high pitched squealing. "Eeeeeekkkkk! Best! News! Everrrrrrr! I can't believe Apple Bloom has fallen for none other thmph Rwtthy!" Pinkie had trouble saying the last part as two hooves found their way into her mouth. A few patrons glanced over, but soon lost interest. "Pinkie, I'm pretty sure this isn't news Apple Bloom wants public, especially not for a bunch of strangers to overhear in bar." Babs removed her hoof from Pinkie's mouth. Apple Bloom removed hers. "Yeah Pinkie! C'mon. Now Pinkie promise me you won't tell anyone." The party pony nodded happily. "Okie dokie! Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." She completed the ritual with the corresponding motions that they all knew too well. With that settled, and Pinkie now more in control of herself, the trio eased up a little. They each had a drink and leaned in closer, to continue their conversation in quiet. 'This is awesome,' whispered Pinkie in an ecstatic tone. 'Two of my best friends! When you two get together, it's gonna be the best I'm-so-glad-you-two-are-dating party ever!' Babs felt it was up to her to try and reign in the out-of-control party-pony. 'Calm your jets there Pinkie. Just 'cos Bloom here fell for Rarity doesn't mean she feels the same way. Is she even a filly fooler? I always remember Sweetie telling me she was boy crazy.' She looked over to her cousin to check, and the sad looked on her face was a pretty clear answer. 'Yeah, Rarity is straight. As much as Ah wanna, Ah ain't really got a shot at her.' Bloom smiled sadly. 'Still, even if I can't have her, just talking about it helps me feel a little better.' 'Whoa whoa whoa!' said Pinkie, waving her arms frantically. 'Now which of us is getting carried away here? And here's a hint; not me, you two. It's way too early to throw in the towel. You can't give up on here without trying! And you're also wrong about Rarity.' 'Wait a minute, what do you mean wrong about Rarity?' asked Bloom. 'Well I mean sure, she isn't gay, but that doesn't mean she's straight!' Apple Bloom looked a little lost, but Babs picked it up straight away. A grin started to spread across her face as she realized. 'You're saying what I think you're saying, ain't you Pinkie?' 'Wait, what?' asked Bloom. 'Yeppers! Rarity is bisexual! So Apple Bloom totally needs to try and court her!' The realization hit Apple Bloom full force. 'Ah have a chance? Ah have a chance! Consarn it, now Ah wish that date we made was a proper one.' 'You made a date with Rarity?' 'Well, more like a girls night out. It was suppose ta be me an AJ, Rarity and Sweets, and of course Scoots and Dash. She says the six of us don't hang out as much as we used to.' As Apple Bloom told Pinkie about the conversation with Rarity and the planned outing in Canterlot, wheels began to turn in Babs brain. 'Perhaps we can help you out more Apple Bloom. Maybe we can make it so you can get a proper date with Rarity. And if it goes well, you can ask her out, tell her how you feel.' Apple Bloom loooked a bit worried. 'Ah dunno ... what about Applejack? And Ah don't think Ah'd be comfortable flirting with Rarity infront of her sister either.' 'You leave that to me and Pinkie,' Babs assured her cousin. Luckily neither me or Pinks is the Element of Honesty. Ok, here's what we do...' Author's Note Sorry for butchering Pinkie Pie, I just can't seem to write her. Luckily Babs isn't as well defined so she's a little easier to write for.
