Rarity worked diligently on Twilight's new gown, being careful not to agitate the delicate silks and cotton. Ever since Twilight's ascension to alicorn, she had spent more than a few weeks looking for new attire for her upright form. Rarity had stepped in when she saw how little other ponies knew to make such clothing and took it upon herself to make Twilight a wardrobe suitable for her new role. Because of this, Rarity had to practically shut down her business and only take a handful of special orders, but thankfully Twilight made sure she was very well compensated. Not to mention more than a few nobles were impressed by Rarity's work and she gained a reputation as an exceptionally skilled dress maker. Rarity finished the basic frame of the outfit and set it on a special mannequin.She looked over it, writing notes onto a pad of how to accessorize the outfit. Rarity checked her chest but saw it was almost completely empty.
"Oh dear. I didn't realize I used so many gems. Well, I'm certain the treasury has some to spare."
Rarity picked up a saddlebag and put her sowing tools away before leaving her studio and walked toward the castle's treasure room. All of the element bearers had agreed to become Twilight's personal maidens and reside in the newly built Ponyville castle. It took some time to adjust, but everyone had adapted to their new home, especially since there were sections built for all their needs. Even Pinkie had a massive ballroom for her parties. Rarity continued down the halls, passing a few servants keeping the castle clean and a number of nobles going to the council chambers where Twilight was no doubt dealing with who would be allowed to start their business in Ponyville. She had to deal with them constantly for the past week. The only times Twilight had time to rest during the day was at dinner time or with her new husband Spike at bedtime. Rarity smirked a bit, remembering Twilight had to soundproof her bed chambers after she received complaints about noise from town. That pony was a screamer. Rarity sighed a bit for certain personal reasons and continued until she heard a crunching sound. Rarity looked in the direction of the sound and saw one of the palace lounges. Rarity entered, looking around the posh chairs, sofas and pools surrounded by lovely plants and pottery. On one of the sofas was Spike reclining by a bowl and a gem in his hands, chewing contently. Rarity noticed the gem was unlike any she had seen before. It appeared to be light blue with a brilliant sparkle to it, even with no light on it. Also, there were little spots of white in it. It was almost like a beautiful snow globe in a diamond. Spike went to take another bite, but noticed Rarity and smiled.
"Hi Rarity. What's up?"
"Spike, where did you get that lovely gem?"
Spike held up his gem and turned it around to inspect it.
"This? I found it near the north part of the city limits; the area near the swamps. There was a spot with enough to fill a bag a couple of weeks ago."
Rarity looked over the gem as well. Aside from a few bites, it was large enough to give a good appraisal. Rarity felt the color and composition would suit her current project perfectly.
"Could you show me where you found this?"
"You need them for a dress?"
"Precisely. I'm making Twilight a new gown. Hopefully I'll have it done once her business in Canterlot is done."
"You're making a lot of dresses for her lately."
"Well, not many tailors are willing to design apparel around her unique figure...which I'm sure you can say she's putting to good use."
Spike sighed deeply and fiddled with his gem.
"Yeah, and I'm fucking sick of it."
"Spike!
"Well I'm tired! If I'm lucky, she only wants it three times a day! And...I'll spare you the details, but I can't handle her at my best, let alone repeatedly!"
Rarity smirked at Spike with a raised eyebrow.
"Twilight doesn't think so. In fact, she seems very happy with your....performance. She always has a big smile afterwards."
Spike slumped a bit, holding his gem and not meeting Rarity's eye. Rarity sat down beside Spike and fluttered her eyes playfully.
"So, could you show me where you found those gems?"
Spike thought for a moment, fiddling with his gem. Rarity thought she saw something spark in his eye before he answered.
"I'll let you know tonight. I need to double check some things to make sure I remember exactly."
"That's fine Spike. I can wait."
Spike smirked a bit, having a slight look of deception. Rarity ignored it and just enjoyed his company. The two of them always had a good relationship, even an innocent romance. Even though Spike was married to Twilight, he and Rarity remained close as friends. Rarity started to caress Spike's round tummy and pudgy legs with a content smile.
"You've gained a lot of hubby weight, I see."
"You know how much Twilight wants me fat."
"I would do the same thing if you were my husband."
Spike shrugged and took another bite of gem. It was true. Virtually every mare wanted a nice plump stallion, either for herself or more likely as part of a herd. Part of the reason was it was a sign their stallion was well cared for and pampered. This had been the way of things since even long before Celestia became empress. Rarity tickled Spike's chin with her tail, making him giggle. Rarity sighed lightly, feeling sad and nostalgic.
"I wish...Sometimes I wish I had asked you to marry me first."
"Yeah...me too..."
Spike looked on sadly and folded his hands, his wedding band on his right wrist catching the setting sunlight. The band had Twilight's cutie mark carved into an elegant gem on a lovely golden bracelet. Spike sometimes looked uncomfortable with it on. Rarity wondered how much say he had in the marriage, considering stallions had little voice in Equestrian society. Rarity nuzzled his nose lovingly. Spike smiled wide and returned the nuzzle.
"So this is where you're hiding."
Rarity and Spike turned toward the door and saw Twilight watching them with a smirk wearing an outfit looking like a cross between a navy officer's uniform and a royal gown. Twilight stood about ten feet tall not including her horn. Her biggest change was not her height or even her wings, but her new physical build. Twilight now stood on two legs, leaving her forelegs free to become arms ending in hands instead of hooves. Also her large and shapely teats now sat on her chest rather than on her lower body. It was nothing new; Celestia and all alicorns were built as such. Twilight and Cadance were the most recent additions to this very small and incredibly powerful race. It took more than a few weeks to get used to, but Twilight now carried herself well as a princess. Twilight walked to the two, keeping her weary but lustful eyes on Spike, who greeted her first.
"Hi Twilight. All done babysitting the stuffy shirts?"
Twilight took a deep breath, showing some of her agitation.
"Yes, thank heavens. I really hope there's no more for a while. The nobles are gonna drive me insane."
Twilight continued toward Spike. Rarity stood up from the couch, giving Twilight space to sit. Twilight had developed a habit of expecting others to act without her saying. Others saw it as a bit pompous, but Rarity actually expected it. Twilight was royalty after all. Twilight picked up Spike and pressed him into her bosom, much to his annoyance, and layed down on the sofa, kissing Spike lovingly.
"Did I miss anything?"
"Spike and I were just talking about a gem he owned."
"What gem?"
"This one."
Spike held up his gem for Twilight to see. Twilight smirked in amusement seeing what it was.
"I'm surprised you have any left now."
"I'm not that big a pig Twilight."
Twilight smirked wider and pushed Spike up slightly by his bottom to nuzzle his belly, showing her wedding band to Rarity who remained silent. Twilight kissed his belly while giving him a lustful look.
"I'll have to fix that later."
Twilight continued to kiss Spike's stomach while squeezing his bottom, making him feel embarrassed in front of Rarity. Thankfully, Twilight remembered Rarity was still in the room.
"Rarity, could you excuse us?"
"Of course."
Rarity stood up and made for the door.
"I'll speak to you later, Spike."
Rarity shut the door behind her catching a quick glimpse of Twilight beginning to make out with Spike. Once she was certain the door was completely shut, Rarity sighed deeply and nearly slumped to the floor. It was hard to hide her feelings for Spike sometimes. It felt like he slipped right through her hooves at the last second. She should have known Twilight would keep Spike to herself; she made no effort to hide her own desire for him. Rarity shook her head and walked back to her workshop. She could still finish her other projects until her talk with Spike. As she walked, her mind went back to the first time they met.
~
Rarity was consumed by making sure the city hall was perfectly decorated for Empress Celestia's arrival. As she worked, a few voices sounded behind her.
"So gorgeous!"
"Yes. The decor looks lovely."
"Not that, her!"
Rarity smirked a bit hearing a young man smitten with her. She decided to play coy and pretended to choose ribbons. What she heard next made her heart flutter.
"How are my spines? Are they straight?"
Rarity couldn't help but smile blissfully.
"Excuse me."
"In a moment. I'm in the zone, as it were."
Rarity finished applying ribbons to the supports.
"There. Now what-Oh my goodness!"
Rarity recoiled in shock seeing Twilight with a frazzled puff of hair for her mane and tail.
"What on earth happened to you?!"
Twilight rolled her eyes and grimaced a bit.
"Let's just say I ran into a rainbow."
"Oh, yes, I see. Rainbow Dash. She can be a bit unru-Oh. Oooooooh."
Rarity was left enamored catching sight of Spike. She had never seen a dragon up close before, and never thought they could be so gorgeous. His green and purple scales were smooth and shimmered like gems. He had big lovely green eyes, but most appealing was his adorable chubby belly. Rarity slowly trotted to Spike, leaving a bewildered and slightly annoyed Twilight behind her as she greeted Spike.
"And who might you be, handsome?"
Spike looked around and behind himself, thinking someone else was around. Seeing no one, Spike turned back to Rarity and pointed to himself inquisitively. Rarity giggled slightly at his innocence.
"Yes, you darling."
"I...um...Spike. M-my name is Spike, miss..."
Rarity tenderly took Spike's claw in her hoof while giving him an alluring smile. Rairty didn't have much opportunity to use her charms due to a severe lack of stallions in her life, but she was confident in her skills.
"Rarity. It's a pleasure to meet you Spike."
Rarity applied a gentle kiss to Spike's hand and fluttered her eyes as she locked her gaze with his. She noticed he had a slightly nervous shiver. Spike smiled meekly and his cheeks turned bright red as he fought hard not to turn his gaze away from the gorgeous pony before him. There were broken from their moment by Twilight angrily clearing her throat. Rarity pulled back from Spike and tried to look dignified.
"Please forgive me..."
"Twilight Sparkle."
"Oh yes, yes. Empress Celestia's protege. I've heard a bit about you."
"Yes, well, I see you have everything in hoof, so I'll leave you to it."
"But what about you?"
Rarity walked behind Twilight and nudged her forward while giving a quick wink to Spike.
"Let me help you clean up."
"What? But-I...Spike, help!"
"Not a chance."
Spike floated after the two mares, lovingly swooning at Rarity.
~
In Rarity's boutique, she worked hard on an elegant outfit on Twilight, occasionally sending an affectionate glance at Spike who remained smitten. Rarity cheered inwardly at her good fortune. She never imagined a young man would be so taken with her. Rarity certainly wouldn't let this opportunity go to waste.
"So how long do you plan on staying in Ponyville?
"I'm not certain. Empress Celestia asked me to oversee the Summer Sun Celebration and try to make more friends. She thinks I spend too much time in libraries and study halls."
Rarity smiled warmly and gave Twilight a quick hug.
"Well, I'm certainly happy you arrived. It's always nice to meet a charming young mare such as yourself."
Twilight smirked a bit at the flattery. Rarity continued to work until she noticed a loose patch on the outfit.
"Spike, would you be a dear and fetch the pin cushion on the desk?"
Spike ran to Rarity's desk and quickly snatched a pin cushion off it and ran back to Rarity, holding it like a precious gift. Rarity smiled flirtatiously at him while taking the cushion in her magic.
"Aren't you a little darling?"
Rarity returned to tending to Twilight's dress but used her tail to caress Spike's head. Spike was in bliss, feeling lost in the feeling of Rarity's soft and silky tail hair. Rarity continued to play with Spike as she worked, reducing him to a swooning helpless romantic. Rarity finished her work and placed a mirror in front of Twilight.
"What do you think?"
Twilight smiled as she looked over her outfit. It was mostly a very fancy saddle made of light cotton and matching socks on each hoof.
"Thank you. It's beautiful. This is so much better than those gaudy outfits in Canterlot."
Rarity blushed and waved a hoof dismissively.
"Oh, you're too kind! I've always wished my work would be able to sell in Canterlot."
"Actually, I know Empress Celestia was looking for a new dress maker. I could recommend you to her."
Rarity gasped for joy and her eyes sparkled with delight.
"You would do that for me?!"
Twilight smiled warmly and nodded. Rarity immediately started gushing.
"Oh my goodness! Making apparel for the Empress herself! I never dreamed of such an opportunity in all my life!"
Rarity pulled Twilight into a crushing hug as she continued.
"Thank you, thank you, thank you! I don't know how I can ever repay you! We are going to be the best of friends!"
Twilight coughed lightly and patted Rarity's back.
"Could...could you let go now,please?"
Rarity realized she was being too enthusiastic and let go, allowing Twilight to take a few quick gasps of breath.
"Pardon my enthusiasm."
"It's alright. If you'll excuse us, we still have work to do for the celebration, so we should get going."
"Oh, but what about the little gentleman?"
Rarity trotted to Spike who immediately perked up. Rarity felt a bit guilty ignoring him during her excitement.
"I'm certain I could make something for you."
"You don't have to."
"Nonsense dear. Hmm. Maybe a nice loincloth."
"If you-...wait, what?"
"Well, I don't want to hide that handsome figure of yours."
Spike fidgeted in place shyly and smiled slightly. Rarity smirked a bit as she continued.
"In fact, maybe you could model some lingerie for me."
Spike's eyes shot wide open in surprise and his face turned bright red as he stood dumbfounded. Rarity nearly burst into laughter at his innocent look of shock.
"Please forgive me if I'm a bit forward, but It's not often I meet such a handsome and adorable young man."
Spike turned his head to look at the floor and fiddled with his hands. However he couldn't hide his ear to ear smile and bright blush caused by Rarity's flattery. Rarity had her own grin of delight at Spike's reaction. She was having far too much fun teasing Spike. Not that her words were insincere. After seeing only a handful of boys and men her entire life, meeting someone who was as infatuated as she was in him was a wonderful surprise. The moment was broken by Spike being gripped in magic and set on Twilight's back who also smiled in amusement. Even she had to admit it was adorable.
"It was very nice meeting you Rarity, but we really do need to get going."
"Yes, of course."
Rarity showed the two out. Spike simply layed on Twilight's back gazing lovingly at Rarity. Rarity fluttered her eyes at him.
"Goodbye Spike."
Rarity kissed her hoof and blew it toward Spike. Spike pretended to catch it in his hands and held it like it was a priceless treasure. Rarity waved at him which Spike returned dreamily.
"I think I'm gonna like this town."
Twilight rolled her eyes but continued to smile in amusement.
~
Rarity sighed happily as she ended her reminiscing and returned to her studio. Even after so long, Rarity still looked back on those days with nothing but fondness. She honestly believed for a time that Spike would be her husband one day. Seeing him only for a moment was enough to brighten her day. Rarity shook her head to clear her thoughts and looked through a small stack of papers for one of her designs. She could still be supportive of him and Twilight when they needed her, and Rarity was content, albeit heartbroken, with that.
~
Later that day, Twilight prepared an airship for her trip to Canterlot. She would be there for a few days for a special assignment from Celestia concerning a neighboring kingdom. Her friends were gathered around to wish her well for the trip.
"Boy howdy! You seem to be going from one meeting to the next nowadays, Twilight! How do you keep track of it all?"
"Not easily, I can say that much! I just really hope I'm up to this."
Rainbow Dash flew next to her and put a foreleg around her shoulders.
"Hey, if you can put up with those fatheads for a week, you can handle anything!"
Twilight smiled gratefully.
"Are you girls gonna be okay without me?"
"Oh, don't worry Twilight. You'll only be gone a few days. We'll be fine until then."
Pinkie suddenly leaped on Twilight in a big hug.
"Please hurry back, Twilight! We need to have a party to celebrate you being a great princess!"
"Alright, just please don't make any more of that triple chocolate cake. If I eat anymore, I won't fit into my gowns!"
Spike chimed in with a snarky look and tone.
"Now you know how I fell!"
Twilight gave Spike a warm smile and tickled his stomach.
"That's different, Spike. You're supposed to be cuddly.
Spike rolled his eyes as Twilight continued to caress him. As she did, a pegasus soldier wearing high tech armor designed like medieval plating entered the room.
"I beg your pardon your highness, but we must be on our way."
Twilight nodded to the soldier once. She gave Spike a long passionate kiss before setting him down.
"I'll be back soon Spike."
Twilight walked out to the waiting airship. One soldier opened a door to the passenger side allowing Twilight in. Twilight settled into her chair and waved after her friends who waved back. The airship slowly lifted into the air for a few seconds before setting off toward Canterlot. As he watched the ship fly away, Spike wiped the excess saliva from his lips and thought to himself 'why does she always get like this when she has to leave?' They all returned to inside the castle. Spike felt a hoof gently stop him. He saw Fluttershy giving him an affectionate look while gently rubbing his arm.
"Something wrong, Fluttershy?"
" I just...um, if...if you ever feel lonely in bed by yourself...my room is always open to you."
Spike recoiled a bit in surprise. Fluttershy continued to smile at Spike and nuzzled his cheek.
"Fluttershy!"
Fluttershy gasped and jumped in fear. She looked to see Applejack giving her a knowing look while smirking.
"S-sorry!"
Fluttershy quickly walked away from Spike. Applejack walked by Fluttershy's side and nudged her.
"Ya'll know Spike is off limits!"
Spike huffed a bit hearing that and walked into the castle trying not to let his agitation show. Ever since they all moved into the castle, Spike felt like his friends had become completely different ponies. Except Rarity, but then again they spent alot of time together before. But the others, especially Twilight, acted like he needed to be coddled like a child. Or worse, have their way with. Spike did not ask for this. He didn't ask for anything he was put through really. Spike was just told what to do and expected to obey. Spike put it out of his mind. With Twilight gone, Spike had a chance to have a night he had lost hope of ever happening since their marriage. Spike entered one of the large bath houses, full of hot tubs and massage tables. The only pony in their was a pegasus mare cleaning the room and keeping bathing supplies stocked. The pony noticed Spike and bowed respectfully.
"How may I be of service, your highness?"
"Is everything taken care of in here?"
"Yes sir."
"Good. I need this room to myself for tonight. Bring me a bottle of silver rose wine with two goblets. Also, give Rarity a message to meet me here around eight o'clock."
"As you wish, my liege."
The maid left the room to carry out her work. Spike walked to a small counter near a drink bar and looked inside. A second later, Spike pulled out a quill and a map. Spike studied the map for a moment, looking for the exact spot he found the gems. Spike had a decent memory and could find the spot on his own, but someone else would need a map to follow. Spike studied the map carefully, making certain he pointed out the right location. Certain he had the right spot checked, Spike took a blank parchment. Spike wrote down some instructions, mostly explaining spots with the most gems. Once Spike finished writing down the instructions, he rolled both it and the map together and put a tie on them. Spike returned them to the desk for the time being. At that moment, the maid returned with a tray with two golden goblets and a bottle of clear wine in an ice bucket. She set the tray on an end table and bowed respectfully to Spike.
"I have delivered your message sire."
Spike smiled and took one of his remaining gems and gave it to the maid.
"Why don't you take the night off? On me."
"Thank you, sir."
The maid turned to leave, but stopped mid step and smiled at Spike.
"If you need anything from me...anything at all...please don't hesitate to ask."
With that, the maid left, lifting her tail slightly to show her pussy to Spike. Spike stared blankly at her as she left, swearing he saw a slight glisten between her legs. Spike shook his head, taking it in stride with all the other advances he had to deal with. Spike saw the moon was nearing its peak,meaning he had half an hour til Rarity arrived. Spike started to prepare a hot tub, looking forward to tonight.
~
Rarity walked through the halls toward the bathhouse to see Spike. She had a feeling he was up to something. Something he didn't want Twilight to know about. Rarity felt a little sad at the thought. Spike was a good man, but she knew how much he loved their time together before Twilight became princess. Rarity reached the door she sought and took a moment to collect her thoughts. This might not be a good idea, but Rarity did care about Spike. If need be, she would have a heart to heart talk, explain why he couldn't act on his feelings. Rarity entered and saw Spike standing by a hot tub with a wine bottle and twin goblets. Spike smiled warmly seeing Rarity.
"Glad you could make it Rarity."
"Yes, well, I didn't expect wine and a bath Spike. You just said you needed to check your information."
"Well, I just thought we could spend some time together. We don't really get to hang out anymore."
Rarity sighed a bit, knowing Spike was right. Most of the time Rarity was busy making outfits, upholstery and such while Spike was either with Twilight or out digging up gems.
"I could use time to relax, I suppose."
Spike gestured to the tub for her to enter first. Rarity complied and approached the steps and placed a hoof in the water. It felt just right; not too hot, not too cold, but just warm enough to relax her muscles. Rarity descended further into the water, feeling her body loosen pleasantly. Rarity submerged her head before leaning against the rim of the tub and got very comfortable. Spike entered the tub as well with a bottle of soap in hand.
"Would you like a back rub?"
Rarity smiled and turned to lay her head on her forelegs, giving Spike access to her back. Spike squirted some soap onto Rarity's shoulders and began scrubbing into her coat and skin, very carefully working his claws into her. Rarity moaned and cooed under Spike's careful yet precise and expert touch.
"You haven't lost your magic touch."
"I try."
Rarity smiled contently, enjoying Spike's menstration. She picked up a goblet in her magic and levitated it to her lips. A quick sip filled her with surprise at the familiar taste.
"Silver rose? Spike, how did you get this? This wine has been in short supply for months."
"You'd be surprised what you can get when you're royalty."
Rarity didn't push further and simply enjoyed herself. Much of the night was spent like this, Spike going out of his way to make Rarity as comfortable as possible. Rarity was half expecting advances from Spike, but thankfully he behaved himself, minding where he massaged her and being content with simple cuddles.
Around midnight, the two were layed back in the tub, Rarity holding Spike under her foreleg while he snuggled into her side. The two were very happy in their position. Since first meeting they would often times just cuddle together and enjoy one another's company for an evening. It was something they both enjoyed more than anything. The moment was interrupted by Spike speaking up.
"Rarity?"
"Hmm?"
"I...I want to tell you something."
Rarity gave her full attention to Spike as he continued.
"I know that...we haven't spent a lot of time together lately but..."
Spike stopped for a moment, trying to find the right words. Rarity had a feeling she knew what was coming but caressed Spike to ease his worry.
"I...I still love you Rarity."
Rarity fought an urge to bite her lip. She knew this would come up at some point.
"Spike...we-"
"Please, just hear me out."
Rarity bit her lip lightly, concerned what he would say. She sighed and remained silent.
"Ever since we came to this castle, everypony has treated me different, like...like a sex toy."
Spike nuzzled deeper into Rarity and hugged her waist.
"You're the only pony I can really talk to sincerely. You really listen to me."
Rarity heard the sense of longing in his voice and felt a sense of empathy for Spike. It was always disturbing to see her friends regard Spike, or any male for that matter, as little more than a plaything. Rarity gently stroked Spike's back, making him smile warmly. He looked into her eyes intently, his face sparkling with love.
"I love you with all my heart. And...I want to be with you more than anything."
Rarity gasped lightly. She knew Spike always admired her, but hearing him say those were a painful realization. Spike truly did love her, meaning his marriage to Twilight was a one sided love. Spike continued.
"Please, stay with me tonight. Let's just have a moment for us."
Rarity felt her heart tighten hearing the sincerity and need in Spike's voice. He just continued to hold onto and looked at her with an earnest and hopeful look. Rarity had to turn her face away, unable to meet his gaze.
"Spike...we can't"
"Please, Rarity. I love you!"
Rarity bit her tongue to silence herself. Hearing Spike say those words would normally make her heart soar with joy and she would take him in her embrace and love him passionately. But now, it tore her heart to pieces knowing their love would never be allowed to grow. Rarity didn't say anything, but started to leave the tub. Her magic lifted Spike from the water as well and set him on the ground and put a towel around him. Rarity put a towel over her shoulders. She sat down before Spike and spoke to him in a serious tone, fighting hard not to let her feelings take over.
"You are a married man! A prince! You have-"
"Just one night, Rarity! That's all I ask."
"Spike, no!"
Spike tried to hug her, but Rarity gently held him back.
"We had something very special, but it has to stop. We can't have a relationship when you're married to Twilight."
Spike looked at the floor, saying nothing. His shoulders started to shake and Rarity could see a few tears roll down his face. Spike whispered something, but Rarity couldn't quite understand.
"What, Spike?"
Spike started to sob gently and spoke again but no more understandable. Rarity leaned in closer to Spike to hear him better.
"Spike-"
"I SAID I DIDN'T ASK FOR THIS!"
Rarity recoiled at Spike's shout. Spike continued to pant and endless tears ran down his face. It looked like this was something he had kept inside for a long time.
"But...why-"
"You think I had any say in this?! You think I was given a choice?!"
Rarity was shocked silent by this. She knew males didn't have many rights, but she never imagined it was this extreme. Spike continued to explain, mostly to vent his frustration.
"I never said anything about wanting Twilight to marry me. Or even liking her like that. But of course she did! So Celestia and that bitch Velvet told me we were getting married!"
Spike took a moment to catch his breath. Rarity had no idea what to say. She never imagined Twilight would do this to Spike, who was practically her own flesh and blood. Rarity collected herself and carefully questioned Spike, in spite of her feelings of empathy and confusion.
"Why would Twilight do this to you?"
"She's not my Twilight."
"W-what?"
"She's not the Twilight I grew up with. She actually cared about me once. But now...ever since she became princess, all she cares about is being Celestia's little bitch! She's changed..."
Spike stopped for a moment to hold back his sobs and continued.
"Everypony has changed! Just because I'm a guy, they act like I'm less than them!"
Spike finally looked Rarity in the eye with the most heartbreaking look she had ever seen.
"Except you..."
Spike suddenly ran to Rarity and held onto her for dear life and buried his face in her coat. Rarity held him for a few minutes as he cried his heart out. Once he settled down, Spike looked up at Rarity with his eyes full of desperation.
"Please, Rarity...just one night."
Rarity felt her eyes sting with tears. She had to bite her tongue because she wanted so much to love him like he wanted. All Spike wanted was to be sincerely loved and cared for. Rarity wanted to so much; to hold him, kiss him and share their love. Rarity took a deep breath and looked Spike intently in the eye.
"Spike...I love you so much. And I want you so badly."
A small glimmer of hope sparked in Spike's eye hearing this. That was shattered by Rarity gently taking Spike's hands and removing them from around her. Rarity continued to hold his hands and rubbed them, hoping to give him some comfort.
"But you are a prince, and...I'm a handmaiden. Twilight trusts us. She needs us. "
Spike's head fell in defeat and he nodded weakly. Rarity was really lying. She was actually more afraid of Twilight's wrath than her well being. Spike was right that Twilight had changed, not all for the better. In many ways Twilight was evidence of the saying 'power corrupts', and she had become very powerful. Rarity leaned down and kissed Spike's forehead.
"Have a good night Spike."
"Wait."
Spike walked to a desk and rummaged through it until he found the scroll he made. He walked back to Rarity and handed it to her. Rarity took it in her magic and started to leave but stopped at the door and took one last look at Spike. Seeing that soul crushing look and his eyes full of tears ripped her heart to pieces. Every feeling inside Rarity screamed at her to stay with Spike and make love to him and damn the consequences. Rarity shut her eyes tight and left, her feelings still burning inside her. Rarity leaned against a wall and started to weep bitterly. Rarity never believed she would lose Spike so easily. They had become so close. She had even planned to propose to Spike when he was old enough. But of course Twilight became princess and took Spike for herself. Rarity caught hold of herself and walked to her bedroom, being careful to avoid her friends' chambers. The castle suddenly felt very empty and unwelcoming to Rarity. Once she reached her room, Rarity locked the door and practically threw herself on the bed, feeling emotionally exhausted. For a few minutes Rarity just stared at the ceiling, her mind full of broken hope and lost dreams of Spike. Rarity sat up and unrolled the scroll Spike gave her, curious what it was. Rarity looked over each parchment and saw the maps would lead her where she needed to look for gems. Rarity sighed and found she had little desire to finish Twilight's dress anymore. Rarity sety the maps on her desk and opened her bed stand to pull out a lock box. Rarity used her magic to unlock it and lifted the cover to show the fire ruby Spike gave her years ago. Rarity held it close to her heart and layed on her bed as more tears fell down her face.
"I love you, my little Spikie-wikie."
~
Spike sat against a wall with his arms wrapped around his legs as he wept silently into his knees. Normally Spike didn't mind having time to himself, but at that moment, Spike just wanted Rarity with him, to hug and hold him. But once again, because of Twilight, Spike was cut off from what he wanted so Twilight could have what she wanted. Spike sat there for more than an hour, feeling completely hopeless and miserable. He tried to think of a quick way out. Suicide wasn't an option because of Celestia's magic. Guards all around the castle would stop him from running away. Spike looked around, not seeing a way out but remembered the bottle of wine. Spike didn't drink much, but when he did it usually took the edge off. Spike stood up and walked to the bottle and started to chug it quickly. Spike began to feel tipsy once he went through the entire thing. He tossed it into the tub and walked to the bar, rummaging through the drinks. After finding several large bottles full of alcohol, Spike started to drink them swiftly one by one. At least he could numb his pain for one night.
The End