The Apple of My (Familial) Eye

The two of them were rescued later that day by Rainbow Dash and a few other Pegasi. Now that the storm had cleared up, the Pegasus rescue team easily flew to the window, Applejack bucked it apart, and the two Earth ponies were deposited safely on the ground. Then the four Apples enjoyed a wonderful Hearth Warmings.

Though they knew it was for the best, Braeburn's and Applejack's hearts broke at the knowledge that 'it' had been a one time thing. They knew that a continuous relationship with a family member (even if they were third cousins) would only bring shame to the Apple family name, and to themselves from the rest of their family. It was simply not how things were done.

Several years went by, and Applejack married a respectable, wonderful young stallion. He was everything she had ever dreamed of and more. She did love Braeburn, but in the end, it was platonic. One fling had been enough for her - and it had been amazing - but one had definitely been enough. She was truly okay with that. And Braeburn was too.

But just like a little part of Applejack's heart always belonged to him, a little part of Braeburn's heart always belonged to the orange mare. Even after he married a sprightly mare - with whom he was indescribably happy - and had two foals - whom he adored - there was always that little part of his heart that was owned by his third cousin. They never forgot that night. And both of them still loved the other deeply. For the most part, it was platonic, but there was those little parts of them that stirred with want every time they saw each other.

Over the years, they learned to ignore it, but it was still there.

Which is why, they say, Braeburn Alexander Apple, and Applejack Honeycrisp Apple had chipped hearts.