Chapters Summer was slipping away. Everyone could feel it. Summer didn't have the cache it used to when the girls were younger. Sunset, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack all had summer jobs and while Rainbow and Rarity didn't work, Rainbow had her summer camp and Rarity had her fashions she devoted herself to. But still, summer continued to hold a special place in the girls' life if for nothing else it was a break from the grind of school.
So now it was August and school was about to start again. Once again, they would say good-bye to extra spending cash and free time; and say hello to learning (yet once again) what an adjective, adverb, electron, and WW1 were. So much of school was relearning what you forgot over the summer months that it added to the tedium of learning exponentially. There were only so many new things they learned every year; the rest was just rehashing what had come before.
There was one new thing Applejack would be learning that sent a chill down her spine - GEOMETRY! Math was never one of her strong suits. No, that's not true. She had been good all the way to pre-algebra. Adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing, even word problems that gave most other students headaches; she had done well at. Once letters were added however; that's when she started to struggle. She was a straight forward person. Vague concepts and abstract thinking conflicted with her inner most workings. She went from B's to C's to even D's. She barely got out of having to take summer school for Algebra 2.
Now geometry was hanging above her like the sword of Damocles. As each day gave way to the next and the start of her torment grew ever closer; she began to worry even more. She had never failed at anything in her life but was sure this could be the first. She had too much expectations in herself to let that happen. But what was she going to do? Eventually she decided she would have to find a tutor. That would be the only way she would ever make it through this year without failing (hopefully).
But now the question was who. Who could she get that she trusted, was willing to do it for little (and hopefully no) money, and who really knew what they were talking about? She wanted to ask one of her friends. Slowly in her head she went through all of them. After careful consideration she narrowed it down to two: Rarity and Sunset Shimmer. Rarity dealt with shapes and patterns all the time in her fashion and Sunset was just really smart. After considering things a little bit longer; she decided on Sunset Shimmer.
Sunset was slowly changing. Long gone was the self obsessed mean girl who tried to enslave everyone to conquer Equestria. Also gone was the girl full of self doubt and regret. After the battle with The Sirens, she had morphed into a mature, almost motherly figure to the girls. Which considering the fact she was technically (if she gave birth at a hyper young age), old enough to be their mother, made sense. She would have the ability to explain things to her in a way that would not frustrate and anger either one of them.
And, truth be told, there was only so much Rarity she could stand. Out of all of them, hers' and Rarity's friendship was the weakest of all. It wasn't that they weren't friends. They were. And there were parts to Rarity that Apple looked up and respected deeply; BUT, Rarity got on her nerves like none of the other girls ever did or even could. She and Applejack were just too different. And even before Sunset had come and started messing with everyone's friendship, they would get in to some doozies of a fight. A few times they got so bad they almost came to blows. But whatever magic brought them together, after a little time apart, they would always apologize and make up.
But Apple didn't have time for any of that nonsense now. She needed someone who she wasn't going to get in a screaming match with. Someone steady, patient, understanding, someone like Sunset. So, after there one band practice, Apple went up to Sunset and asked for her help.
"Oh wow, thanks Applejack; but I can't." Sunset was surprised and honored that Apple would ask her for her help. And it made her feel bad to turn her down. But Sunset had planned on keep working once school started again. After pretending to be a teenager for so long; having a job made her feel like the adult she was. In fact she was starting to feel homesick and thought of returning to Equestria. It was only what Princess Luna told her about needing to stay to face a major challenge that kept her here. And she couldn't imagine helping Applejack with geometry was the challenge she spoke of.
"What? Well why not?" Applejack asked confused. She had never expected Sunset to refuse. Now what would she do? Could she really ask Rarity for help? She was feeling scared and desperate now.
Sunset explained why she couldn't to Apple. She did so in a very gentle, loving manner. The same manner which would have made her a great teacher (well, tutor at least). Then Sunset offered a solution. "I know someone who could help you out. He's a nice guy, super smart. I met him while working at Target. I was in the electronics area and he was a customer. He knew more about the stuff than I did. Best yet, he goes to our school. I could set you up if you want?"
"Sunset, are trying to find me a tutor or a date? Cause it's really soundin' like your tryin' to set me up on a date here."
Sunset laughed. She didn't mean to, but she knew exactly what made Applejacks' concern so funny. "No, no, no. I promise you I'm not. While I can't say for sure; I'm ninety-nine percent sure he's not your type. This is strictly for tutorial purposes only. So, how about?"
Applejack grumbled. This is not what she wanted. This would a stranger, lord knows how much he would charge, and what if he turned out to be a creep? But she had no other options, time was running out, and it was Sunset who was suggesting him, so he couldn't be that bad. "Fine. Tell `im I'll meet him at Starbucks in Target Tuesday around one o' clock. That good."
"I'll see if he's free. I'll call as soon as I get off work and let you know ok?"
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Applejack was in her bedroom Monday night, practicing her bass when she saw heard her phone ringing. She picked it up from the night stand and answered. It was Sunset letting her know that everything was a go for tomorrow. Apple thanked Sunset, put the phone down, and looked at her dog.
"Well, Wynona," she said to the dog, "looks like I have a study date tomorrow."
Author's Note
While this makes references to my other stories; this contains no rewrites. Also since the references are so slight, you could read this story just as a stand alone (but reading the others would give it a deeper context). I have to admit, Applejack is one of my least favorite characters. So getting a handle on her has always been a bit difficult. Hopefully I do right by her since I still care about the character. And once again, this is a bridge story.
Applejack walked into Target at 12:45. She wanted to get there early so she could Sunset. She had no idea what this guy looked like or his name. More so; she didn't want to meet him cold. Having Sunset introduce them somehow seemed "safer". But, honestly, if Sunset was the one who set this up, the guy must be safe. Still, she preferred to be introduced.
Apple went back to Electronics and got Sunset. Sunset laughed when she saw her and informed her that the mystery man had already been here since 12:30. Turns out he was even more nervous about meeting Apple than she was of him. Sunset walked her up to the front of the store where the Starbucks was. At one table, sitting alone, was a dorky looking kid who reminded Applejack of a cross between Jerry Lewis and Woody Allen. Well, he certainly LOOKS the part , she thought to herself.
"Hey Chip," Sunset called out and the boy looked at them and smiled. "Alrighty, Applejack, this is Micro Chip; Micro Chip, this is Applejack." Micro stood up and the two shook hands. "Alright. I'll leave you two to figure out schedules and such; I got to get back work. Later." And with that and a wave, Sunset left the two to their own devices.
Apple and Micro just looked at each other. They both smiled awkwardly and sat down.
"So, Sunset tells me you're looking for help with Geometry. Well, I can help, but would you mind telling me what your exact problem is?"
Good Lord, this guy even has the whiney, nerd voice , Applejack thought to herself. "Well, you see, I used to be pretty good at math. The basic stuff ya know. Adding, subtracting and the like. But once I started into Pre-Algebra, I don't know, it all started to get too hard to follow. I mean, x equals y and all that stuff. So now I'm really worried I might fail my first class ever."
Micro nodded his head. "Typical. When most people start seeing letters in equations, it tends to throw them off. But really, it's all in your mind. A story I once heard about Einstein went; when he was a boy, he was horrible at math. Most of his teachers thought he was stupid. Then when he got to algebra, he asked his dad, or his grandfather, I forget which, what Algebra was. His father, or whoever, responded it's a lazy man's math because you never solve for anything. Once he heard that, he took off in math and became one of the greatest people in the history of science."
Apple just blinked before getting a stern look on her face. "And that has to do with me how?"
Micro got a look on his face that appeared to say, do I really have to spell it out for you . "Perspective. Once Einstein changed his perspective, he was able to not only over come, but to excel. And with most people that is true. That's why when I first start with any person I tutor, the first thing I work on is their perspective." He gave a big smile and hoped that she understood what he was talking about.
"Uh-huh," Apple said flatly. "And you actually think that is gonna help?"
Micro sighed. "You have a farm, right?"
"Yeah, so?"
"Ok, so do you have a fence around it?"
"A little one, but . . . "
"Ok, how did you know how much fencing you needed?"
"You just add up all the sides and . . . " Apple stopped as Micro pulled out a piece of paper and wrote on it. He slid it over to her. She looked at it and on it was 2l + 2w = P. She looked at him confused.
"Sorry, I assumed your plot was square. But there. You used geometry to find out how much fencing you needed. And it was that equation there. Well if it was square, well not square actually, that's another equation, rectangular, or four sided at least. You had four sides, two of length, two of width; the two l and the two w. The P stands for perimeter. Now, that equation is the same, always the same for finding the perimeter of a rectangular area. The l and the w are irrelevant. They could be any number, well numbers, since they're two separate, well anyway, the letter are just place holders until you have actual numbers to put in there. That's all." Micro once again looked at Applejack and hoped she was understanding what he was trying to say.
"Ye-ah," merely responded.
"Ok," Micro started again, with a noticeable tone of frustration. "Geometry, at it's core is about shapes. Finding the sizes of shapes. There are formulas to help you find those sizes. They are always the same. The numbers themselves don't matter, well, they do in a specific case, but not in the big picture. Once you understand that, understand that the letters and symbols aren't there to trip you up but merely to show you it's the formula that matters, not the actual numbers, then you can plug whatever numbers you like into the equation and you'll always get the right answer."
Apple looked at him skeptically. It kept saying all she had to do was change how she thought about math and it would be easy. But she knew from personal experience that math was hard. "I don't know. I know this is hard and I don't think changing my 'mindset' is what's gonna make it easier."
Micro sighed again. "Fine, fine. I can teach you equations. I can show you how to solve for this problem or that. And, with practice, you will get better. You won't fail. Well, I doubt you'll fail. I mean you could fail, anything's possible . . . "
"Ah, is there a point you're trying to make here?"
"Huh, oh, yes, but, anyway, moving on. I can help. I will help. But until you learn that you can change your view point, you won't achieve all that you can."
"As long as I don't fail, I don't care," Apple said with more than a hint of anger.
"Understood. Well, if you want my help, it'll be a minimum of three nights a week until school starts, then it'll be five nights a week. At least one hour per session. Where is up to you. Sessions go better when the student feels the most comfortable."
"How much?" Apple asked flatly.
"Free," Micro responded, a little shocked that she thought he would charge.
"FREE?" Apple didn't know what to think. What did he mean free? No body does anything for free unless they're kin of friends, and even then, that was rare.
"Uh, yes, free. If you want to pay me something, I won't refuse, but I enjoy helping people learn. And it keeps me on my toes as well." Micro flashed an awkward grin.
"Yeah, and you wouldn't be doing this hopin' for a date now would you? Because if you are, that aint happenin'."
"Uh, no, no. I didn't mean to imply, I know, no, I'm not after a date or anything romantic." Micro flushed red with embarrassment.
Apple suddenly narrowed her eyes. "Are you sure?"
"Ah yes, I'm sure, one hundred percent." Micro was doing his best to assuage Apple's mistrust of his motivations.
Apple looked at him again with a cold, hard stare and then asked, "Well why not?"
"Wha - wha- what? I -I-I-I-I, I don't know, HUH?" Now Micro was thoroughly confused.
"What, I aint pretty enough for you. I aint lady lady like enough fer ya? Aint my boobs big enough fer ya?"
"No, I mean yes, I mean, oh crap, I give up. Listen, I thought you didn't want me to think of you in that way. Physically, you're fine. You meet all the societal definitions of what constitutes and attractive female. And while you're scaring the crap out of me now, I'm sure your personality is just as fine. But I know what I look like and I know what females tend to want in a male mate, and I possess little of those qualities so I don't even bother thinking of girls in that way."
Apple leaned forward, her face in a grimace, "Is that so?"
Micro scroutched down in his seat and squeaked, "Yes. Please don't hit me."
Apple backed and her facial expression went from one of anger to one of embarrassment and sadness. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean all that. It's just, I'm stressed about school coming up. I'm stressed about geometry, and, I'm stressed that all my friends seem to be finding people and I'm not. Heck I aint never been asked out on a date before." Apple slumped back and looked away.
Micro slowly straightened himself back up. "Um, I can help you with the geometry. As for the other, I can't do anything there."
"It's alright. But what's wrong with me? Fluttershy has someone, my brother has someone, Twilight and Rainbow both have boyfriends. Long distance mind you, especially Twilight, but even Pinky and Rarity at least get asked out and Sunset has dated; and I'm just alone."
"Hold on, Rainbow Dash has a boyfriend? I thought she was gay?" Suddenly Micro's eyes bugged out. "Oh, I'm sorry."
Apple waved her hand. "Aw shoot; don't be. Heck, we all thought that." Then Apple's face grew really sad. "Is there something wrong with me? Is it my accent, my freckles, my being less gifted in a certain area than other girls? I mean, what is it?"
"Well, as an outsider to this realm of the human condition personally, but a keen observer none the less; I can make some guess. First, it's nothing about your physical appearance. You are by all perimeters, an attractive girl. The freckles might be a turn off to some, but they're a turn on to others. As for, I'm guessing you mean breast size?- while I haven't looked at your chest in specific, from just a general observation, they do appear to more than fall into the acceptable range of male desirability. My biggest guess is that it's nothing physical, but the fact that you're, well, intimidating."
"Huh? What'dya mean 'intimidating'?" Apple asked, once more getting angry.
"Well, um, that. You're physically strong. Stronger than many of the boys at school. Also, you do have a bit of a temper, don't hit me!" Micro said again as readied himself for a smack.
Apple just looked at him and looked sad again. "So now what? Why should I have to hide or change myself just so a boy will ask me out?"
"Um, well, you shouldn't. Not for the right one at least. But another thing to, you might want to ask a guy out yourself. It's two thousand fourteen, you can do that you know."
"I know, but I'm old fashioned that way. But I guess you're right."
The two sat in silence. Apple just looked to her right and mopped. Micro looked at her, looked around the room, then back at her.
"Um, I'm sorry to interrupt, but do you want me to tutor you or not?" He was afraid of another out burst but Apple just sighed.
"Yeah, we can start whenever."
"Oh, ok, ah, tomorrow at five. Public library, your house, where ever you're . . ."
"My place will be fine." Apple sounded disinterested, then she turned to him. "Hey, is your name really 'Micro Chip'?" She suddenly realized how strange that name was.
"Huh, oh, he-he, no. My actual name is Christopher Machkowsky. My family calls me 'Chip', so I just sort of flipped it and started calling myself Micro Chip. It's more descriptive of who I am I think."
"That's cleaver." Apple's mood was finally lifting.
"So? I highly doubt your real name is Applejack Apple. Well, I guess it could be. There's been stranger but . . ."
"Jennifer."
Chip's mouth dropped opened. Did she just really tell him her real name?
Apple smiled. "Don't go tellin' nobody, ya hear. Not even my kin call me Jennifer. But after what I just put you through, I figured I owed you something."
Chip smiled back. "Thank you Applejack. And your secret is safe with me." He looked down at his watch and said, "Well, I got to go, but I'll see you at your house tomorrow, ok?"
"You got it partner." With that they both got up, shook hands and walked off.
Author's Note
Yes, I gave Applejack a normal name.
Also, with my last ship (Maud, Big Mac), I went with love at first sight. With this I want to take my time and build it up. So friendship first that then evolves into more.
Micro arrived at the Apple farm precisely at 5pm. He pedaled his bike up to the front porch, got off, and rang the doorbell. A tall, muscular boy answered the door. Micro knew it was Big Mac. He had let his hair grow a bit since graduating but Micro still recognized him. Big Mac was a bit intimidating to look at, but his kind eyes and easy going demeanor quickly made you feel at ease.
"Hi, I'm Micro Chip. I'm Applejacks' Geometry tutor." Micro stuck his hand out. He had a big grin on his face. Even though his whole look screamed "non-threatening", still, big brothers can be very over protective of their little sisters; so he wanted to do all he could to allay any fears right off the bat.
Big Mac in turn smiled back and took Micros' hand in a nice hand shake. There was no over squeezing to show he was the dominate male or act as a subtle warning. It was just a normal hand shake. "She said you were coming," he said in a friendly manner. "Come on in, I'll get `er."
Micro walked in and looked around. It was a neat, well decorated house. Nothing fancy, nothing over done; but not minimalist either. It was about what you'd expect from a well cared for farm house. "You have a very nice house here Mr. Apple," Micro said.
"Thanks, and call me Mac, or Big Mac. I aint no mister yet. My grandma and youngest are out school shopping right now but should be back soon. I'm going to meet my girlfriend later on, so if I'm not here when you leave, it was nice meeting you."
"You as well. But if your grandmother isn't back before you have to leave, I'll head out to. Common courtesy."
Big Mac smiled and nodded. He knew Apple could take this guy. He also knew that Micro knew that Apple could take him out if he tried anything. But it was a nice gesture none the less.
Before they could say anymore, Apple walked down the steps. She had on a baggy, red t-shirt, jeans, no shoes, and her hair was tied back in a pony tail. For whatever reason, Micro was awe struck by how beautiful she looked so dressed down. He quickly shook the idea out of his head. He was a professional in all things and he knew his place on the dating chain, which is to say the tail end.
"Hey Chip," Apple called out. "You wanna come up to my room? My desk and computer are up there."
Chip gave a quick glance at Big Mac who simply shrugged. So he went over and followed Apple up. Her room was the third on the right.
"Come on in. We got to keep the door open." Apple pointed to her bedroom door.
"Of course," Chip replied.
On the inside, Chip was shocked to see Apples' bedroom. Some country music posters hung on the wall; that was to be expected. But what the shocking thing was all the sci-fi posters and video games she had. In fact, her bedroom didn't look much different than his. Just a few girly things here and there.
"Wow. Star Trek, V, The Walking Dead, Battle Star Gallatica, I'm in nerd heaven," Chip said delighted.
"I might be a country girl, but I aint no stereotype," Apple said proudly. "If we got time after the lesson, maybe we can play some video games?"
"Absolutely!" Chip said excitedly. But then he caught himself. "But we'll see how the lesson goes ok?"
"Sure thing," Apple replied.
Micro got out his teaching supplies and sat down next to Apple at her desk. He once again explained what the main principle of Geometry was. He showed her some basic formulas, explained the theory behind them, and had her try some simple problems. Apple tried her best and Chip knew she had it in her to do well but she was over thinking it. Patiently he would explain what she got right, what she got wrong, why she got it wrong and what she could do to get it right next time.
Apple on her part wanted to scream in frustration. She hated not being able to get something right away. She hated struggling. Even though Chip went out of his way to make her feel ok and was very nice, she still couldn't get over the fact she wasn't living up to her own expectations. A few times she felt like throwing her pencil down and quitting, but Chip always calmed her down and brought her back.
Eventually the hour was up. Chip packed away his supplies and complimented Apple on how well she did. Apple on the other hand felt like she did horribly. "I don't know Chip, I don't think I'll ever get this mess down."
"Applejack, you did fine. Really. Just believe in yourself, that's all." Chip went to pat her on the back but stopped. Touching, even in the most friendly and non threatening of manners, was still a big no-no.
"I jus' don't know. Ugh!' Apple took a deep breath. "So, you got time for a video game? I know we've been here the whole hour, but I really need to unwind. So how 1bout it partner?"
Chip thought it over. "If you or one of your family can drive me home, ok. Just a short one."
Well when two avid gamers start playing, "a short one" is a relative term. About a hour and a half later, Chip's phone was buzzing in his pocket. He took it out and saw both the time and that it was his mom calling. "Oh scrap!" he said in a panic. He accepted the call and listened while his mother yelled at him for being late. Apple did all she could not to burst out laughing.
After a good 10 minutes, chips mother finally stopped and let him go. He clicked off his phone and looked at Apple with a pathetic expression on his face. "Um, if you want another lesson on Friday, you'll have to come to my house. I'm grounded."
Apple knew it was wrong but couldn't stop herself from finally busting out laughing. Chip got mad and protested until even he had to start laughing. Granny Smith and Apple Bloom (who had come back from shopping) came up to see what was so funny.
Granny came in and said, "I thought you all were studyin'?"
Apple and Chip tried to stop, almost succeeded, but then saw at how ridiculous the other looked trying not to laugh and lost it all over again. But, as with all moments of fun, it came to an end. Chip asked for a ride back and Applejack (who had just got her license) asked if she could drive him home. Granny reluctantly agreed and off the two went.
When they got to Chips' house, Apple looked at him. "Ya know, despite everything, I had a good time tonight. you's good people there Chipo. I'll definitely be over Friday."
"Thanks Applejack. I had fun too. And don't worry, you'll get this. You're a smart person. I have faith in you; just have faith in yourself."
Chip went to turn around to leave when Apple gave him a quick hug. He blushed and finished getting out. Applejack watched him leave and thought there goes a new friend.
Author's Note
Not much here, but as I said, I want the relationship to take a little more time. I'll probably do one or two more parts then move on to the long fiction (still don't have a name for it yet). I wanted to write short stories for all the girls first though. I may do that. Who knows? I don't. Well hopefully you keep reading and liking.
Variables
The final days of summer drifted away on the never ceasing winds of time. For the young, who's lives were so much more condensed, it meant a return to school, to boredom, to lost freedom, and alarm clocks. For the middle aged it was a reminder of what they had lost and what lie ahead. For the old it was just a passing from uncomfortable heat to uncomfortable cold; their lives nearly spent, metaphoric and literal changes of the seasons accounted for very little.
Applejack continued to dread the upcoming school year, her second to last; but not as much as before. In the three weeks Chip had been working with her, she had slowly seen an improvement in her comprehension. There was still much she didn't get but she didn't feel as hopeless either. She was becoming somewhat cautiously optimistic. She also knew who she owed it all to.
Chip would never take credit. It was one of his best qualities. Always saying how smart she was, how she could do this, how she had it in her, he always down played his own role. But she knew, she knew. It wasn't even that he was explaining it any differently than in her past classes; but that she felt an ease with him that she never felt with any of her teachers. Then again. she never played video games, watched cheesy sci-fi movies and shows, or go into joke telling competitions with her past teachers either. Apple thought the fact that she and Chip got along so well made it easier to learn. She knew he wasn't judging her and that she had nothing to prove to him.
A couple times they had stayed and ate supper at each others' houses. It was interesting too. Chip, himself, was an atheist but his parents were conservative Jews. It was fun to see how their customs differed from hers'. She would ask Chip's parents questions and they would be more than pleased to answer. She guessed it work out for Chip as well. Her family were non-practicing Baptist; so Chip could just eat at her place and not worry about saying a prayer or hearing about Israel and "Bibi" needed to do or should do or should not do.
It's amazing how people whom we thought had no chance of effecting our lives often have such a deep and lasting impact. When she was with him, she felt smarter. She also felt happy. His bad jokes, his tendency to over explain things in normal conversation, the way he never took himself too seriously, all made her feel, well, just better. She now looked forward to each tutoring session simply because it meant they could hang out again.
But that was tomorrow, today her and the girls were hitting the beach for one last fling before classes started on Monday.
They pulled into the parking lot, all in Rarity's van. It was Rarity and Apple of course. Sunset Shimmer, Rainbow Dash and Soarin (who had come down for the week), Fluttershy and Sandalwood (whom Soarin was staying with while he was down here), and Pinkie Pie. They unpacked all the stuff they brought: cooler, beach towels, bags for putting their outside clothes in while they swam, beach ball, sandcastle making tools (that was all Pinkie), and all the other various items one brings to the beach for a day in the sun.
They walked until they found a spot they liked and laid everything out. Then they removed their outer clothing and put it in the bags they had brought. The guys wore boxer style swim trunks, Fluttershy, Sunset, Pinkie all wore one piece bathing suits, and Rarity, Rainbow, and Applejack all wore two piece. It was Apples' that turned everyone's head though.
Two piece or bikini style swim wear is by nature revealing. Basically little more than a bra and panty set you can wear in water. But Apples' was even more revealing than the others. A yellowish-green number that was designed to have just enough fabric at to not get the wearer arrested; but little else. Basically a "what's the point" outfit.
Apple saw the others just gasping and staring at her. "What?" she asked irritated. But of course she knew what. She knew it was a risk buying the swim suit in the first place. But she had to put on a confident face.
"Nothing darling," Rarity somewhat embarrassingly said. "It's just that I've thrown out bigger pieces of cloth than what you have on."
"Yeah, seriously," Pinkie jumped in. "You might as well be naked."
"Guys, come on," Sunset said in her slightly stern "mom" voice. "You all go on. Swim, play, whatever; ok?" Everyone else left slowly. The guys took a quick look back and were promptly hit by Rainbow and Fluttershy. Once out of earshot, Sunset turned back to Apple and shook her head. "So, what's the story?"
Apple bowed her head and looked away; blushing with embarrassment. "Well, I've been thinkin', ya know, that I aint the most feminine girl out there. I mean, I wear skirts and dresses and all, but still, I aint like Rarity or Fluttershy. I just thought . . . "
"Dressing like a stripper would make you look more feminine?" Sunset said it like a question but really it was a statement.
Apple looked up a bit angry now. "No. But I at least want boys to see me as a girl and not some country boy in drag. I mean I already got these working against me." Apple said as she grabbed her chest. "I'm not blessed like Pinkie Pie in that area."
"Honey, Dolly Parton isn't blessed like Pinkie in that area," Sunset said in a sarcastic manner. "And look around. Most of us aren't overly bountiful in that area either. So why all the concern?"
"Because, as I told Chip, y'all got or at least had boyfriends. I've never had a date. I've never even been asked out on one." Apple lowered her head again.
Sunset walked over and gave her friend a hug. She stepped back and placed her hands on Applejacks' upper arms. "Well, this will get you asked out, but probably not by anyone you'd want to go with." Sunset then lowered her left arm. "Sweetie, when the time is right, when the person is right, you'll know. This isn't the answer. Besides, you're sixteen. You got more than enough time to meet someone."
Applejack nodded. Sunset smiled, patted Apples' shoulder and walked off to go swim. Apple just looked around and felt foolish. She felt foolish for buying this thing, this wash cloth masquerading as a swimsuit; foolish for worrying about meeting a guy, just plain foolish in general She decided to put her outer clothes back on and just sit on the beach.
"Applejack! Is that you?"
Apple turned around and saw you had spoke to her. "Jeffery, Jeffery Frey. Oh my God, I haven't seen you in almost two years."
Jeffery was a boy she used to have a lot of classes with in middle school but hadn't seen him since the first part of their freshmen year. She had always had a crush on him. Tall, lean, athletic, brown hair with piercing bluish-grey eyes, she thought he was perfect. He on the other hand never saw her as anything more than a buddy.
"Wow, you've changed." Apple blushed and was about to apologize when he continued, "You -look-great. I mean you really look good."
Applejack blushed and looked down. "Aww shucks; thanks," she said grinding the ball of her right foot into the sand.
"Mind if we hangout for a while? - catch up?" he asked shyly.
Apple lifted her head just enough to look at him and said, "Naw, of course not."
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Chip answered his phone immediately as soon as he saw it was Applejack calling. Over the past weeks he had slowly began to develop feelings for her. He didn't want to, tried to fight it off, but they just clicked so well; that he decided to finally allow himself to go there emotionally.
"Hey Applejack; what's up?"
"Hey there Chip. Um, listen, I'm gonna have to break our study session tomorrow."
Chip was surprised. Apple had been so dedicated to her lessons, it seemed almost implausible she would back out. Also there was something strange in her voice. He was becoming worried. "Uh, that's fine, I guess . . . is everything ok?"
There was a brief silence where Chip got really scared; but then Apple started to speak again and the joy in her voice was undeniable. "I got a date!" she said. "Oh Chip, I've been crushin' on this guy for years and he finally asked me out to a party tomorrow. I'm so excited!"
"Oh. Um, yeah, yeah, sure. That's fine. I understand. See, you finally got asked out and you're going to do well in Geometry as well."
"I knew you'd understand buddy. I gotta go, but I'll see ya Monday at school. Bye."
Chip turned off his phone and laid on his bed. He turned and saw his reflection in his bedroom mirror. He gave a quick laugh and said to it, "See what you get for having feelings."
Applejack looked at herself in the mirror. Her hair was combed straight down, cascading over her shoulders like a blonde waterfall. She had on a white top that had a fairly wide collar; exposing some of her collar bone but didn't plunge to an immodest depth. It was very short sleeved, coming to just above the mid point of her upper arms. The shirt was banded at the waist and the collar, sleeves, and waist were trimmed in faux lace. A pair of above the knee length jean shorts and a pair of strappy sandals completed her look.
"So what ya think there little sis?" she asked Apple Bloom as she turned this way and that in front of the mirror.
"I think this guy's gonna feel like the luckiest man on Earth," Apple Bloom replied, sitting on Applejack's bed. Apple Bloom loved her sister immensely and honestly thought she was the prettiest girl on the planet.
"Aw, thanks there sugar cube." Apple stopped looking at herself and turned to Apple Bloom.
"Until you open your mouth that is." Apple Bloom teased.
"Oh hush up girl!" Apple tried to sound mad but couldn't. She was looking too forward to her date with Jeff.
"Applejack, you're young man's here to see you!" Granny Smith called up. The two Apple sisters looked at each other, grinned, and walked downstairs.
Apple Bloom gasped when she saw her sister's date. He looked like he walked of the cover of a teen girls' magazine cover. She looked up at Applejack who was behind her and whispered, "You didn't say he was that good looking!" Applejack gently slapped Apple Blooms shoulder and walked down to meet him.
"Applejack, I know I keep saying this, but you look amazing," Jeffery said in sincere astonishment and awe.
"Aw shucks," Apple blushed and turned her head.
Apple invited Jeff into the living room where he and the rest of the family talk. Everyone liked him right off the bat and before long they were all laughing and joking together. Almost everyone. Big Mac sat back and observed. Applejack caught him just looking and gave him a look that said bot What? and Don't blow this for me! . After a time, the two get up to leave. They all say bye and tell Jeff what time to have Apple home and they get up to leave. As they are walking out the door, Big Mac pulls Apple aside.
"Alright big brother, what is it?" Apple asks annoyed. "You gonna say he aint good enough fer me?"
"Nope. I like him just fine. It aint that. I'm just wondering about Chip though." He said in a relaxed, easy going manner which confused Apple even more.
"What about Chip? He's my friend."
Big Mac just shook his head. "Go on now, you don't want to keep the poor boy waiting."
Apple was about to say something bug just shook her own head in annoyed confusion.
Apple and Jeff talked the whole time to the party. Most of it was talking about when they always used to have classes together, past friends and teachers. Most of the catching up they had done on the beach yesterday. It was fun. Jeff had a great sense of humor, was charming, and just talking about "old times" felt good.
They party was at one of Jeff's friend's beach house. They pulled up and got out. The party was in full swing. Loud music was blaring, kids everywhere, some she knew, most she did not. It was then Apple felt a bit reluctant. She was an introvert or disliked people, she just preferred not to meet so many new people at once.
She followed Jeff up the steps to the deck and he starts introducing her to the others. All seem nice, some are surprise to see Apple there. One girl offers Apple a beer but she politely refuses and asks for water instead. She get asked questions and answers them as best she can. She talks to the others about music and movies, some ask if has "ponied up" anymore since the Battle and what that feels like. Many are surprised she's a gamer and sci-fi fan.
All in all it was a great night. Or at least it should have been. But as the night wore on, Apple kept feeling like something was missing. She couldn't put her finger on it at first. It was like when you have an itch but don't know quite where. You scratch where you think it is but that spot was not really it, so you go on. And that's how it was for Apple. Were the people unfriendly?- No; all were nice enough. Was Jeff treating her bad? - No; he was the perfect gentleman. So what was it? She didn't know but it was really starting to bug her.
Eventually she found herself sitting on a couch in the living room listening to others talking about sports and cars and what they thought the school year was going to be like and what teachers they wanted and what teachers they were afraid to get. It was all nice, normal stuff. And she was bored stiff. The house and rap music that was playing made her want to puke; she didn't care about who drove what or what they wanted to drive. She liked playing sports, she was the only one to give Rainbow a run for her money, but watching them was like watching paint dry. She just had no interest in what anyone was saying.
Then she remembered a conversation she had with Chip and jumped in. "Who do you think is the better leader; Rick Grimes or Optimus Prime?"
Have you ever said something so wrong that the nanosecond you said it, you knew you messed up royally? Apple just did. Everyone looked at her like she just asked if any of them sacrificed goats to Satan. It wasn't even that they didn't know who she was talking about, just why would you ask that and how could you even compare those two? Apple remind quiet for almost the rest of the night.
Jeff could see Apple wasn't having a good time and took her out to the back deck. "Applejack, is something wrong?" he asked concerned.
"I don't know. There shouldn't be. Everything, everyone is fine here. People are friendly and I've had a crush on you for years."
Jeff smiled. He liked Apple and was beginning to LIKE Apple. Hearing she had a crush on him made him feel really good but he knew something was off. "But something is still wrong." He put his arm around Apple's shoulders as she turned to watch the sky over the railing.
"Yeah. And I hate it. I hate that I don't know. I mean, sure, I'm bored a bit with talkin' about football and that. I don't like the music they got on, but that's no reason to feel, oh heck, I don't know what I even feel." She turned to face Jeff. "This night should be perfect. But I can't, I don't feel it."
Jeff smiled and nodded. He was disappointed and a bit heart broken; but he knew what he had to do. "Come on; I'll take you home."
*********************************************************************************************************************
Chip sat in his bedroom reading a collection of H.P. Lovecraft stories when his phone rang. He picked it up in surprise that anyone would be calling him this late. He looked and saw it was Applejack. Reluctantly he answered. "Hello?"
"Who's the better leader; Rick or Optimus?"
Chip was stunned. What was going on? Why was she calling him? Why no hello or even a brief introduction. And why a subject they already talked about? "Applejack, I thought we decided it was Optimus."
"Now hold on. I've been doing some thinking, and I'm changing my mind." And with that the two debated and argued and drifted from one subject to the other. Eventually they came to the consensus that Godzilla was in fact more powerful than Superman; before remembering what their original topic was .
After a couple laughs the phone went quiet. Chip waited and waited. Should he say something? He didn't know what to do, so he quietly asked, "Applejack?"
"Yes Chip?" she said equally as quiet.
"Is everything ok?"
There was a long silence before she spoke again. "I missed this. Our conversations." There was another pause. "I missed you."
Chip sat in stunned silence. Was she saying what he thought she was saying? "I, I missed . . . you . . . too Applejack."
"Please, call me Jennifer."
Author's Note
I didn't want to go with the "guy X is a jerk and the girl goes running back to the geek with a heart of gold" cliché. I wanted Jeff to be a really good guy but have Apple realize that her heart belonged to someone else.
I hope you liked. I tried to keep the dialog to a minimum in this story. So
