Sleep's Embrace

by Lise

Rating: everyone
Tags: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Romance, Rarity, Slice of Life
Length: 10457

When Rarity starts to avoid sleep in order to meet her deadlines, Sleep decides to intervene.

There is a pony who never sleeps. She works, never ceasing, and is more generous with her help than the sun with its light.

In all of Equestria, there is only one pony who has rejected me so.

Her name is Rarity, and I love her.

Special thanks to fourths and Fahrenheit for editing.

Huge thanks to Aragon for prereading and advice.

Written for the WriteOff competition (prompt: The Darkest Hour)

Published 2016-12-17 01:10:02 UTC
Last updated 2016-12-17 01:10:02 UTC

Chapter 1

There's only one who never slept.

Not in Canterlot, home of the eternal princesses, nor in Manehatten, the city that never blinks, but in a small unremarkable village called Ponyville. Her mornings were spent making breakfast for her sister—fresh toast, sliced cucumbers, apple squares, and a bowl of oats and raisins. Sometimes there would be a bowl of begonias, sometimes a glass of lemonade.

Her sister never gave much thought or showed an ounce of gratitude. Instead, she would take a few nibbles, possibly share her latest concern in life, and then rush off to school. Meanwhile, Rarity would clear the table, wash the dishes, clean the kitchen, have a quick bite of her own, then head back to work. The entire day she would toil on fashion design, always making time should a friend come asking for help—a dress that needed to be made, a plea for advice on a delicate matter, or a shoulder to cry on. With a smile and a sigh, the mare would endure.

When evening came, Rarity would prepare dinner—aubergines with carrot garnish, a salad of freshly picked daisies, a pitcher of apple juice, and two servings of strawberry ice cream. Finally, once the meal was over, after she had washed the dishes, tucked her sister in, and groomed her cat, she would quietly go to her room, dim the lights, and spend the whole night working on new fashion designs... never resting a wink.

A day of sleeplessness isn't too much for a pony to handle. Most have gone through that at least once, from schoolfillies to the princesses themselves. There are some who have gone on for days, possibly a week, rushing to keep deadlines, or kept up by troubling thought. Only one has managed to remain awake for months on end: Rarity. The name itself describes her well: unique, exceptional, extraordinary, out of this world yet of it. In all of Equestria, there isn't—nor has there ever been—a creature such as her.

In all of Equestria, never has anyone rejected me so...

The clock chirped seven. Rarity glanced at it over her shoulder, then went back to her designs. She had spent the last three nights doing and redoing her latest masterpiece—a summer outfit for none other than the Princess of Love herself.

The poor thing looks simply ghastly, Rarity had thought during the last visit to the Crystal Empire. Those baggy eyes... that messy mane... and her wardrobe is simply horrendous! No, for the sake of the Crystal Empire, and Equestrian fashion as a whole, I'll take it on myself to correct this atrocity!

...Right after I finish with my backlog of orders.

The latest version of the dress was simple, yet elegant; light, yet stylish; ideal to allow her enjoy the few moments of freedom motherhood permitted her.

Just a few more lines. Ruler and pencil levitated slightly to the left, completing the final touches with surgical precision. The was no doubt once the dress was done that the world of haute couture would find the final product enchanting beyond compare. Sadly, Rarity had no time to admire her work. Adding a brush of makeup to cover the bags under her eyes, she rushed to the kitchen.

"Meow." An annoyed white cat greeted her at the base of the staircase. Giving her an indignant look, the feline turned around with an unspoken humph, then demonstratively went to the milk bowl and started licking its paw.

"Why, Opalescence, I'll certainly fetch you a bowl of warmed milk, just as soon as—" A deathly glare from the feline made her stop. "Of course, I could do both at the same time," Rarity offered with a weak smile.

The white feline frowned some more, considering the offer. A few seconds later it looked away indignantly getting back to licking its paw. Rarity let a sigh of relief. Thank you for the compromise, Opal, she thought as she trotted by the cat and into the kitchen. I'll be sure to fetch you some extra cream for your understanding.

The cat never noticed the care it was receiving—nor did anypony else who went to seek Rarity's help. They were always preoccupied with their own devices to bother with her thoughts or feelings. As for Rarity herself, she never turned anypony away, never voiced a complaint, and only seldom made a remark.

Her mind raced ahead. I do hope the turnips are fresh. Vegetables, dishes, and table utensils started floating about. Two sets of sandwiches formed: butter, carrots, and rose petals for school, as well as turnip-carrot melange with mayonnaise for breakfast. Nothing sweet—Rarity knew that her sister was spending too much time in Sugarcube Corner and needed a well-balanced diet.

I might make a note to visit Twilight today. Warm slices of bread—triangular, naturally—arranged on the spotless plate. I could definitely use some magic to help me with my work schedule. Why there are so few days in the week, I really don't know.

"Mmmrow!" An annoyed sound came from the living room.

"Just a moment, darling." Rarity whisked a bowl of cream, added a pinch of sugar, then levitated it to her hungry feline. "And please be careful not to dirty your lovely fur." Something akin to a grumble confirmed that the cat had been appeased and would take her request into consideration.

Well, Rarity chuckled behind a hoof. That's one content customer.

"Hello, Rarity!" Sweetie Belle rushed into the room, sitting at the table, seconds after it was set.

"Good morning, Sweetie Belle." The mare smiled. "I trust you have brushed your teeth and mane? Good hygiene is of vital importance for a young lady such as yourself."

"Huh? Oh, yes," Sweetie Belle replied as she absentmindedly took a bite from the rose petal sandwich.

Oh, Sweetie Belle. That was supposed to be your lunch. We both know you'll never eat something as common as turnip-melange at school. Oh, well. Guess I'll have to make some more. A new set of ingredients floated about.

"Rarity, am I ugly?" Sweetie Belle asked, causing Rarity to almost drop a dish.

"What?" She looked at her her sister, eyes wide with panic. Is it that time already? You're still too young to be thinking about such things! Then again, when I was your age...

"Photo day’s this week, and Miss Cheerilee said that I can't be in the front row anymore." The filly took another bite from the sandwich then pushed it aside. "Diamond Tiara said that it's because only the beautiful ponies are in front, and I'm no longer beautiful."

"Oh, hogwash!" Thank the stars! Of course it would be because of photo day. What was I thinking? "Sweetie Belle, ponies are arranged based on height, not beauty." She went to her sister and patted her gently on the head. "You've simply grown taller. There's nothing to concern yourself with."

"Ohhhh." Sweetie Belle pulled the plate back and took another bite of her sandwich. "Can I put on some makeup on, just in case?"

Not again. Rarity rolled her eyes. "Sweetie, we've discussed this. You are beautiful as it is without needing to resort to makeup."

"You use makeup." Sweetie Belle narrowed her eyes.

"Sweetie Belle, it's just that—" Rarity stopped. What would you think if you knew the reason I use makeup was to hide the sleep I've been missing? she wondered. "It's just that as refined as I am, I'm not as nearly as beautiful as you."

The filly tilted her head. Compliments such as this were uncommon, as far as she was concerned. Usually they would be followed by a 'but' or 'except.' No such thing happened.

"I guess," Sweetie Belle said, tapping her chin with her forehoof.

"Of course you are!" Rarity packed her sister's lunch neatly in a paper bag, then levitated it in front of her. "Now go—" The mare's attention fell on an ivory white letter on the table, which hadn't been there only a second ago. Rarity was certain of that; she always remembered the precise arrangement of the table, and there most certainly hadn't been anything in that particular spot. "Sweetie Belle, did you leave that letter there?"

"Huh?" The filly looked at the envelope. A glint of confusion flashed in her eyes. Moments later, Sweetie Belle surrounded the letter with her magic, but before she could levitate it, a stronger magic took hold.

"I'll take that," Rarity said sharply as she pulled it away. "Now please get your saddlebag ready. You don't want to be late for your class photo."

With a sigh and a growl Sweetie Belle trotted out of the kitchen, her breakfast barely touched. Rarity waited to be certain she was alone, then looked at the envelope. Unlike most she had seen, this was perfectly white, unblemished by stamp or address. Isn't this peculiar? she thought. Whoever had sent it had done so in a most unusual fashion. There was no smell of dragon breath, no static of unicorn magic, no claw or talon marks... as if somepony had just brought it in and disappeared.

Overflowing with curiosity, Rarity opened the letter. The only thing inside was a white card, no larger than the envelope itself, all covered in specks of silver.

You say you want us to be together.

I wait for you, and yet you hide.

You could embrace me but you don't.

I come to you in the darkest hour,

And you reject me all the same.

"Oh my." Blood rushed to Rarity's cheeks, giving them a pinkish tint. This wasn't the first love letter she had received, nor was it the best, but definitely the most unusual. "Sweetie Belle," the mare shouted loudly, putting the letter on the table.

"What?" Her sister shouted in reply from outside the kitchen. "I'm getting ready!"

And sneaking into my room again to put on some makeup, I'm sure, Rarity thought, rolling her eyes. "Was the letter on the table yours?"

"Huh?"

"Oh, never mind, darling. Just be careful with the mascara. We don't want you to look like a clown on photo day." That should get her to think twice. Rarity smiled, then returned her attention to the letter. "So, somepony sent you to me," she murmured, sliding her hoof over its surface. "Yet you'll have to wait for another day. I'm behind on Cadence's dress, and my Manehattan order is due by the end of the week. I simply have no time to waste on frivolities." The letter was safely put away on the top shelf.

Rarity's daily routine continued. She put the uneaten food in the fridge, washed the dishes, went to check on Opalescence—who by now was sleeping peacefully next to her bowl of cream—then started working on her latest latest order of dresses. Five minutes in, Sweetie Belle galloped by and with as little as a goodbye she left the boutique. Rarity sighed.

You forgot your lunch again, little sister. She placed the final ruby gem on the outfit. I'll have to go through your school again. And maybe I'll also go visit Twilight on the way back.

"There!" Rarity levitated the dress onto a mannequin. It seemed just as fine as all her other designs, if a bit more pompous than her usual work, but such was the request. "Only three more to go. I just need to..." Rarity yawned.

For a moment, it seemed she would give in to sleep's gentle touch. It had been weeks since she had taken even a wink of sleep, so if anypony deserved it, it was her. Alas, it wasn't meant to be. She brushed it away with a shake of her head.

"No, no, Rarity, you have ponies relying on you!" she said loudly. "Once the order is done and Cadence's dress is complete, you can sleep all you want. Until then, you'll have to put up with a few minor inconveniences."

Minor inconveniences... the phrase seemed strange when spoken out loud. The mare had said the same thing a month ago. It had started as a temporary measure to help her meet a deadline, and had… simply never ended. No matter how much she worked, something else always came up—a friend in need, a new deadline, a friendship emergency—forcing her to remain awake just one more day. And another. And another...

"This is nothing more than a temporary rough patch," the mare continued, trying to convince herself. "Everypony has them." Another yawn, this time deeper. Her eyes closed. For the slightest of moments, she surrendered, letting sleep take her away.

"No pain, no hurt," a voice whispered in Rarity's ear. "Only dreaming..."

The unicorn's head tilted forward, legs relaxing, bringing her off balance. At that precise moment, her body's natural reflexes kicked in. Rarity's head whipped up and her tail flicked twice, restoring her to a modicum of awareness.

"A proper lady does not fall asleep during work hours," she stated, stifling a yawn. "What would ponies think if they saw you in such an abysmally horrendous state?" Opal let out an annoyed hiss. Unlike Rarity, the feline disliked her sleep being disturbed. Rarity, of course, disliked disturbing her pet. "Yes, yes, you are quite right, Opal. I need to go to Twilight immediately. I'll just finish one more—"

The boutique door swung open, followed by a thunder of hooves. Rarity looked up. Standing at the entrance, breathing as heavily as a locomotive, mane messy and full of twigs, was her friend Pinkie Pie.

"Rarity!" Pink hooves grabbed her before the mare could even blink. "It's an emergency!"

"Huh?" Rarity managed to say, before Pinkie Pie stuck her face in hers.

"I'll say it's huh!" Pinkie Pie nodded. "Lyra told me that Minuette told her that Fancy Pants asked her if I could organize his son's cute-ceñera." The words made Rarity dizzy. They were too many, too long, and too confusing. Still, she bit her lip, trying to focus her attention on the matter. "Which is easy, because I'm the best party planner in Ponyville, but I've only done a few good parties outside of Ponyville, and this party needs to be extra-mega-special, and in order for it to be extra-mega-special, I—"

"Pinkie Pie!" Rarity hissed, pushing the pink pony away. "I am in the middle of some very important—"

"I know, silly," Pinkie laughed. Rarity's eye twitched. Pinkie Pie was difficult to deal with at the best of times, let alone days away from a deadline.

Pinkie Pie, I appreciate your confidence, but now really isn't the best time! Rarity wanted to say. I am way behind schedule as it is, and I promised to go to the spa with Fluttershy this afternoon, not to mention my urgent visit to Twilight. Instead, the unicorn smiled, coughed politely, and took a step back.

"What exactly is the nature of the emergency, darling?" Rarity said, with the utmost politeness. "I hope it's not another of your confetti throwing... performances." A slight frown started to tug at her lips.

"Nah." The pink pony waved a hoof. "I just need a dress to be allowed in his home." Pinkie dashed next to Rarity, her muzzle almost touching the unicorn's ear. "He insisted on it," she whispered, Pinkie-style.

"Oh." Well, it's hardly surprising, keeping in mind the reputation Fancy Pants must uphold, Rarity thought. At the very least Pinkie Pie would need an appropriate vest, and maybe an elegant dress as well—though not too formal. Possibly something in an elegant white, with a touch of pink for character, and— What am I thinking?! I can't possibly find the time for this. I have three costumes to finish, not to mention Cadence's dress, and I was hoping to finally craft something for Rainbow Dash, which is a challenge in itself! "Well, Pinkie Pie, as much as I would love to help you with your endeavor, I simple cannot—"

"A-ha?" Pinkie Pie looked at her, eyes wide with anticipation.

"—finish it earlier than tomorrow morning." Rarity's smile stretched.

"Really?" Pinkie Pie's mane puffed up even more.

"Yes. I—"

"Really??" Pinkie Pie shoved her muzzle against Rarity's.

"Yes..." Rarity made an attempt to pull back.

"Really???"

"Pinkie Pie!" Rarity shouted. Her friend instantly froze. That was very unladylike of me. Pinkie Pie is not to blame for my overcrowded schedule. And I can't just refuse a dear friend. "I understand you are excited, darling, but please give me some space to breathe. Just come tomorrow morning and the dress will be ready."

"Okie dokie lokie!" Pinkie Pie said cheerfully, then hopped out of the boutique. She didn't say a word in thanks, she didn't offer anything in exchange. Rarity didn't seem to care, she had a new dress to design, and so little time to do it.

If I make two dresses at once, that might leave me enough time to work on Pinkie's outfit, she considered. It wasn't a pleasant experience, but nothing that she hadn't done before. Of course, it would go much better if Rarity could cast another sleeplessness spell on her. The mare knew full well it was unhealthy to replace sleep with magic—even if it was alicorn magic—but there were times in which she needed a slight boost.

"Right!" Rarity said, heading for the stairs. "I better get—"

Her hoof tripped. The prolonged lack of sleep caused her body to lose balance. Her body dragged her tumbling to the floor, her head flying towards the edge of the staircase. Seeing the inevitable crash, the mare closed her eyes, bracing for the pain.

Yet it never came. Instead, her head landed on a cloud of softness.

"What by the stars just happened?" she asked, eyes still closed. Every fiber of logic in her being screamed that she should have bumped her head hard. And yet, here she was—perfectly unharmed.

I watched her lie still, eyes wide as saucers with confusion, as she floated in the cloud of mane—my mane.

"Hello,"I said to her.

Rarity blinked, and then I was gone.

Chapter 2

In every pony's life, there comes a time when they feel invisible, unnoticed by the one they love. For me that time was now. Here I was, a step away from Rarity, watching her look right through me.

"Opalescence, did you see—" Rarity looked at her cat. It was sleeping, curled up comfortably on the floor. "Oh, but what am I thinking," she chuckled. "Get ahold of yourself, Rarity! Just one more push, and then off to Twilight."

Most ponies resorted to coffee or hot chocolate to stay awake. Never Rarity. Excess caffeine and sugar would make her hooves shake and stomach gurgle—things she would never accept. Instead, she resorted to magic. Every few weeks she would go to her friend, the Princess of Friendship, asking for a wake-me-up spell. Time would keep running, her chores would be done on time and to perfection, andher clients would be pleased, occasionally complimenting her on her work before going on with lives. None would take a moment to look at her, or notice the tiny cracks in her perfect facade.

The final stitches done, Rarity tied the end of the thread into a knot. Another dress finished, two more remained—as well as those of Pinkie Pie and Princess Cadence. Rarity glanced at her work, daring to smile. Her mind was racing, inspired by her own creations and my perfume of drowsiness. If she'd enter my embrace, I'd give her all the ideas in Equestria and beyond. Yet she never did. Placing the newly-made dress on a mannequin, she went to the bathroom to sprinkle some water on her face. I could feel her pain, her struggle. How I only wish she could feel mine.

It was mid-morning. Rarity would clean her boutique, although it was spotless, grab a very quick bite—always cucumber sandwiches with a touch of parsley—and then lock up and go outside. Even with sleepless nights and constant deadlines, she'd always spare a few hours to enjoy a pleasant trot through the open. Most often she'd walk through the park, or enjoy the calm of the lake. Today, she grabbed her saddlebags and set off for Ponyville's school to bring Sweetie Belle had her lunch yet again.

"Lovely day, Miss Rarity," the mailpony would greet her. "Are you going to Manehattan again?"

"Not this week, darling," Rarity would say, smiling as she walked past. "There's more to life than work alone." The mailpony would laugh and tip his hat before returning to his mailboxes.

Since I'm already at it, I might as well buy some provisions, Rarity thought. She checked to see if she had enough bits on her, brushed a few stray hairs of her mane into place, and trotted off to the market. She'd greet every stand owner with a smile, then meticulously go through their produce choosing the fruits and vegetables she deemed acceptable: half a basket of cherries, four cucumbers, a single golden lemon, five strawberries, a bag of lily blossoms, and several leaves of spinach. Sweetie Belle didn't like spinach, so Rarity had been forced to find ingenious ways to add it to her dishes or, failing that, use it for a facial mask.

"Well, howdy there, Rarity!" Applejack shouted as Rarity approached her stand. "Anything I could get for ya today? This season's harvest turned out mighty fine, if I say so myself. Heh."

"Why, thank you, Applejack." Rarity nodded with a polite smile. She didn't particularly like apples, but she would never refuse a friend. "Oh, goodness me. I seem to have bought quite a lot today. Maybe just one? I do apologize, darling. I promise I'll make it up to you next time."

"Shocks, Rarity, ain't that big a deal," Applejack laughed. "Tell you what." She pushed three fine apples towards the unicorn. "Just take these. From the Apple family."

"Oh, no, I couldn't." Rarity shied away, carefully using aparlance between firmness and politeness. A few bits levitated from her saddlebag onto the stall.

"Now, now, don't ya be refusin’ my hospitality." Applejack pushed the bits back. "Besides, Sweetie Belle helpin’ Apple Bloom with her homework more than covers it."

"Oh, fine," Rarity said with faux grumpiness. "But I'll be sure to tell Sweetie Belle about it. Actually, it just so happens that I'm on my way to the school right now."

"Sweetie forget her lunch again?" Applejack chuckled. Rarity sighed, levitating the apples and bits, into her saddlebags. "Don't ya worry. Fillies are bound to be forgetful-like. Why, I remember when I was her age—"

"Yes, indeed," Rarity hurried to interrupt. There were only so many hours in the day, and she had a whole lot to do before nightfall. "I do apologize, Applejack, but our talk will have to wait. I have a favour from Twilight and hope to catch her before she starts rearranging her books again. You know how she can get."

"Tell me about it." Applejack shook her head. "That mare's been busier than a one-legged cat in a sandbox."

"Yes, she does tend to get carried away at times, doesn't she." Rarity smiled politely. Not a word about her own busy schedule. "Hopefully, I'll manage to find her in a favourable disposition," she laughed softly.

"Well, good luck to ya." The joke was completely lost on Applejack. "And tell Apple Bloom I want her back home right after school. No crusader business 'til she finishes her chores!"

"Naturally. I'll be sure to be most insistent." Rarity smiled once more. "A wonderful morning to you, Applejack."

"See ya, Rarity!" The earth pony waved as Rarity trotted away.

The shoppings would weigh heavy on her, yet Rarity would never let it show. There were times before when she'd ask some stallion for help, knowing she'd receive it. Not anymore. Now she was the one helping others. I knew I was to blame for that. On the verge of my embrace, all creatures become more helpful—yet never before had one managed to remain there as long as she had.

When Rarity arrived at the school, there was nopony to greet her. No matter how many times it happened, Sweetie Belle would hide among her friends, hoping to avoid her sister's glance. Not once did it pass through the filly's head how much time Rarity was sacrificing from her schedule, nor would she consider the burden her sister had accepted agreeing to take care of her. Instead, there would be grumbling, complaints, shouts... sometimes even accusations of Rarity trying to steal her spotlight. Today was no different. Sweetie Belle and her friends were playing at the school playground. Another argument had broken out between the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Diamond Tiara, filling the air with their yells. The moment Sweetie Belle spotted her sister, however, her attitude changed. Within seconds she became as quiet as a mouse, looking around for a place to hide.

"Yoo-hoo, Sweetie Belle." Rarity waved cheerfully across the playground. "You forgot your lunch again."

"Rarity!" the filly shouted almost in desperation. "You don't have to come every time! Argh!" She stomped on the ground. "I'm on a diet," she humphed raising her chin high.

"But Sweetie Belle, I brought you your favourite." A neatly packed lunch levitated out of Rarity's saddlebag. "Carrot and rose petal sandwiches. Oh, and some divine apples for your friends from Applejack."

"Fiiine!" Sweetie Belle grumbled in place of thanks, then stomped through the playground. She couldn’t tell how much her classmates envied her. Instead, she just wished her sister gone.

"How did your class photo go?" Rarity yawned. The effects of her stay-awake spell were fading away. "Oh, pardon me." She shook her head briskly in an attempt to shake me away. She knew that if she could make it to Twilight, she'd be fully awake again. However, so did I. Wrapping her in my mane, I gently kissed her on the forehead. I knew Rarity could feel my warmth, my softness, my love... just a few more seconds and—

"Rarity!" An ear-piercing yell tore her away from me.

"Wha-huh?" Rarity jumped back into consciousness. Oh dear, she thought blushing. My apologies, Sweetie. This was so unbecoming. Thank the stars I didn't fall asleep on my hooves. I could only sigh. Yet again she had eluded me, and although I had managed to plant a kiss, I felt twice as hollow inside.

"If you're falling asleep, you shouldn't have come!" The filly grumbled, just loud enough for her sister to hear. "You're always like this! Next you'll faint and get half of Ponyville to—"

"Oh, Sweetie Belle, a lady does not faint without a reason," Rarity tried to be strict. "I—”

“You never listen to what I say!” Sweetie Belle pouted. “You’re like that all the time! With you I can never—”

“I am sorry, Sweetie. I was just admiring the lovely morning. Now, when taking the photo, it's important to remember the direction of the sun, the wind, and the camera. Remember, Sweetie Belle, all three are your friends, and if you treat them nicely they will as well."

"Rarity," the filly said through her teeth, flustered by the change of topic. It didn't help that all her classmates were looking at her.

"Oh, but what am I thinking!" Rarity covered her mouth with a hoof. "Of course the camera will treat you well.” She pinched her sister’s cheeks, only to receive another annoyed, “Argh!”. Rarity sighed. "Now go back to your friends and enjoy your lunch." She started turning around. Halfway there, she paused. A flicker of a memory called out to her, reminding of the conversation with Applejack.

"Applejack asked that Apple Bloom come home straight after school," I whispered into her ear. It wasn't something I was supposed to do, it wasn't something I had done for anypony else. "No crusading until she does her chores."

"Apple Bloom," Rarity said, stifling another yawn. "Applejack asked if you could go home directly after school today. No crusading until you do your chores."

Apple Bloom's ears drooped down.

"She was most insistent about it." Rarity shook her head, fighting to keep her eyes open.

"I understand," the filly sighed. Unlike Sweetie Belle, she respected her sister enough to listen.

"That's wonderful, dear." Rarity turned away. She didn't want the schoolfoals to see her in such a condition. "Remember to look darling for your photo!"

Not expecting thanks, Rarity rushed off towards Twilight's castle in a hurried canter. All the way her mind would continue working on dress design ideas. Would Cadence look better in a veil dress? Or would a more sporting mini suit her better? Question after question moved her closer to the castle. I was beside her every step of the way. Yet with every step she she moved further and further away from me. By the time we reached the castle, I could feel she had shrugged me off once more.

"Twi—" Rarity started a yawn, covering her mouth in part with a forehoof "—light." She knocked gently on the door. "Twilight, a moment if your time, if you please?"

No answer came, as often was the case. Twilight would either be in her library, or spending time with her student. Rarity, however, had too much class to allow herself to enter in such uncivilized fashion. After a respectable amount of time, she knocked again, this time slightly louder. Four out of five times Spike would appear around this time, rushing after in a clumsy attempt to impress her. He'd open the door, ask the same questions, make the same compliments, then follow Rarity like a puppy to where Twilight was. Not today, though.

"Twilight, darling, are you there?" Rarity knocked yet again, as etiquette demanded. This time the door swung open.

"Rarity?" Starlight Glimmer, Princess Twilight's prized people, popped outside. "Were you here long?"

"Not at all, darling," Rarity lied. "I take it this isn't a good time?"

"Oh, thank the stars! I was busy trying out a new spell and..." Starlight directly went into a complicated and completely useless explanation. Any pony would have cut her off, yet Rarity patiently waited for her to finish, a brave smile on her face. "You're probably here to see Twilight?" she asked several minutes later, once the topic was exhausted.

"Quite right, darling." Rarity nodded. "Might you be a dear and fetch her for me?"

"Oh, Rarity," Starlight laughed waving a hoof. "You don't have to be so formal with me. Just give me a moment, I'll go fetch her."

"Thank you greatly, dar—" Rarity stopped mid-word. On the steps, right next to her, she noticed a moderately large indigo box wrapped in a gleaming ribbon.

I could have sworn this wasn't here a moment ago, she thought. Maybe Starlight left it? Yet there was no trace of Starlight—just the echo of distant hooves moving down the corridor. Curious, Rarity took a closer look. The box was slightly bigger than a picnic basket, finely crafted and of perfect proportions. The whole outside was covered in fabric—not paper like most ponies had the habit of using—made of fine starspider silk. It was quite exquisite, in the eyes of a connoisseur.

Trottingham lace? Rarity examined the ribbon. It too was made of fabric, and held at the top something that made the unicorn's eyes widen in astonishment. There, at the very top, attached to the bow, was an indigo card with Rarity's name written in elegant white letters.

Why would anypony leave a gift for me here? Rarity wondered, circling the package. She wound it unconceivable to the point she believed it to be a dream or hallucination. Gently, the unicorn levitated the ribbon off and unwrapped the packaging, revealing an ebony box. Before Rarity could open it, however, a purple bubble light flashed a few steps away from her.

"Rarity!" Twilight Sparkle almost shouted as she appeared on the scene. Her mane was messy, the feathers of her left wing in complete disarray. It wasn't difficult to see she had spent the night awake working on another project. It wasn't unusual for her to skip a week of sleep every now and then, but nowhere nearly as much as my Rarity. "I'm sorry I—"

"Good heavens, Twilight!" Rarity almost fainted on the spot. "You simply cannot walk out in the open like that! Come, let me fix that disaster!"

"Huh?" Twilight blinked. Her mouth remained open for a few seconds.

"Your mane, darling." Rarity pulled the princess somewhat forcefully down the stairs. "Come along, we must fix this catastrophe before more ponies fall victim to the hideous sight."

"Hey! I'll have you know that—"

Twilight wasn't able to finish her sentence before her mane was suddenly wrapped in a Rarity's magic. Sturdier than brushes, more precise than combs, hundreds of tiny aether threads swept through the alicorn's mane and feathers, gently but firmly straightening them and them back in order. The mane foundations done, a brush materialized for the final touch to bring the experience to an end.

"Much—" Rarity yawned again "—better, darling. You were saying?" She turned to Twilight with a confident smile.

"I was about to say that I was fine," Twilight grumbled. "Just because I spent the night in the library is no cause for—"

"Oh, please," the magnificent unicorn laughed. "You were obviously under considerable stress. Frankly, it's impressive you were able to keep such a good look despite the circumstances."

"Thanks." Twilight paused for a moment thinking on the logic of the explanation. "I guess."

"You're quite welcome." Rarity fought to remain awake. She was at the verge, yet every time I advanced she'd push me back. "My deepest apologies for cutting our talk short, but there's something of vital importance." Twilight's ears perked up. Her expression changed from annoyed to concerned. "Before I do, I'd like to ask you to keep an open mind. Could you do that for me, darling?"

"Oookay," Twilight took a step back.

"Its slight embarrassing, but could you cast a wake-me-up spell on me?"

"Rarity!" Twilight said with the intonation reserved for Spike after a mishap. "Again? This is the fourth time! That spell is quite complicated and shouldn't be overused!"

"Nonsense, darling. I remember how elegantly you did it last time," Rarity said firmly, her words accompanied by a nod. "And I really, really could use the help." She stretched her words to a semi-whine. "I'm so behind on an order I need to send to Manehattan, and I promised Pinkie Pie to have a dress ready for her in the morning. Not to mention that I simply must make a suitable attire for Princess Cadence. The poor thing has been through so much with the Crystalling of her daughter and the Crystal Empire nearing being swallowed by icy storms..."

Twilight didn't budge. Eyes narrowed, she kept glaring at Rarity waiting for her to finish, itching to speak her mind.

"And what about your own wardrobe?" Rarity shifted the topic of conversation. "All your clothes are so last season. You really don't need to wait for the gala to ask for a new dress, darling. You're an important princess now, after all."

Twilight's confidence faltered. The inner conflict was written all over her face.

"Please, Twilight. I could use the help of a friend right now." The final trump card. Sadly, it was more than true. Rarity was in need of the help of a friend; she had been for months. Every since the first night she spent working she would have welcomed assistance. She wasn't proud as Applejack, yet she'd accept help when offered—small things: fetching groceries, carrying provisions, procuring gems—yet she held such a perfect act that nopony suspected the severity of her condition. The single pony who for a moment had glimpsed under her mask and provided any real help was Twilight... and I hated her for it.

"You really mustn't replace sleep with magic, Rarity," the princess said with concern, and for once I agreed with her. "You can't go on days without sleep. I know the spell makes you think you could, but—"

"Oh, hush," Rarity laughed. If only it were days concerned, I would be fine. How would Twilight react if she knew it was a matter of months? "It's hardly that serious."

"So stubborn," I whispered gently in Rarity's ear. I knew she could hear me. "And so fascinatingly beautiful...”

My Rarity's ears flicked. She turned her head to the side, trying to see me. For a moment I thought she would, yet her glance just stared right through me yet again. Ponies often said that perfection was elusive. They were absolutely right. She also was the most stubborn creature I had ever seen.

"This is the last time, all right?" Twilight asked. Naturally, Rarity nodded, her lips pursed in a slight smile. I knew she was lying. "Let me fetch my spellbook."

With a purple flash the princess was gone, leaving me alone with Rarity. I knew that in a few moments she'd be back to snatch my love away, yet those were my moments and I was going to use them to the fullest.

Rarity tilted to the side, ready to collapse on the stairs. I proper her up with my mane. I could tell she longed me, yet at the same time struggled to avoid me. Had I become nothing but a guilty pleasure to her?

"Huh?!" Her eyes widened as she finally noticed me.

The was the second time she looked upon me and I knew it would be as fleeting and bittersweet as the first. It pained me we had so little time, yet I smiled. I didn't want her to see me sad.

"For you." I opened the present I had brought for her: a diamond necklace, as blue and flawless as her cutie mark. A split second later, Twilight appeared.

...and made me fade away.

Chapter 3

Rarity didn't say a word during the entire trip to her boutique. Whenever someone would greet her, she'd smile, nod politely, and trot on. It tore my heart watching her act that way, all because of that single moment I had appeared. The only spark of joy I had was that she had taken my present—card, bow, wrapping and all. I could only dream that it meant something to her.

As Rarity arrived home, she flipped the boutique’s sign to closed before continuing on to the kitchen. The provisions she had bought were neatly arranged in their places—always on top of shelves and high cupboards, far out of reach of Sweetie Belle—and the saddlebags in the corner. My gift was put on the table to stay on its lonesome, while she thoroughly washed the fruits and vegetables she had purchased. Some she transformed in a quick snack that she took with her in the working area. Then she started working. The remaining two dresses of her order took priority. Energized by Twilight's wake-me-up spell, Rarity worked twice as fast. What took her an hour this morning, she managed to do in half. I watched her merge together cloth into a thing of beauty, only to undo it time and time again until she found herself satisfied with the result.

By the late afternoon, she had nearly finished with the ensemble and she shifted her focus to the final touches that would make her work stand out even more. Ever once in awhile she would look at the clock, a new concern added to her list—Her sister. It wasn't rare for Sweetie Belle to arrive late, yet it wasn't uncommon for her to get hurt either. Back when Sweetie was searching for her cutie mark, Rarity would visit the hospital several times per week when her sister needed to be treated for scrapes, bruises, and even a broken bone on a few occasions. She'd pace in the corridor, worried, and blame herself for failing to be to her sister what her parents weren't. Then, when everything was over, she’d hug her tightly as if it were the end of Equestria, and treat her to ice cream at Sugarcube Corner.

"Mrreow." Rarity's feline rubbed against her legs, as she did when she wanted door or affection.

"Yes, Opalescence." Rarity smiled, although her thoughts were elsewhere. "I'll make your favourite right away. Just excuse me for a teensy moment more."

The cat was in a good mood, so it led the comment pass, returning to its pillow where it began licking its paws. Rarity put the final gems on her dresses, gave them one last critical glance, then rushed into the kitchen. There she took out a bowl and whisk from the cupboard, along with two bottles of milk from the fridge. Accustomed to perfection, she seldom bought cream, instead preferring to make it herself. While she did, her thoughts lingered on her sister. Sunset was approaching and there was still no sign of Sweetie Belle.

"I expect she's out playing with her friends," she said out loud in an effort to calm herself down. "There's nothing I should be concerned about, really." The smile that appeared on her face was forced. "Sweetie's a grown girl. She's proven she's perfectly capable of taking care of herself." The whisk moved furiously around, almost spilling a few drops of milk out from the bowl. "Don't you think?"

The question made me freeze. Never in my existence had I been so at a loss for words. This was the first time Rarity had ever spoken to me. Seconds passed. I swooped down, invisible, standing by her side. I wanted to talk to her, I wanted to explain so much, but Twilight's spell had put her out of reach. Widening my ears, I waited in the hope that she would address me once more... but that never came. Rarity finishing making cream, added a punch of sugar—after tasting it, of course—and went to bring her pet the dessert.

"There you go, Opal." Rarity smiled, though her eyes darted nervously up at the clock.

I'm sure everything is all right, my lovely Rarity thought, as she started work on the design for Pinkie Pie's official party attire. Fancy Pants is keen on white, but that is so last season as far as Canterlot is concerned, she reasoned with herself, coloured pencils forming a sketch on a sheet of paper. Over a quarter of an hour, she'd scribble, until inspiration hit her. Casting all versions on the floor, she would start anew. This time there would be method in her madness—seemingly unrelated lines would merge together, forming a creation never seen before.

Finished, Rarity would then put it on her work table face down and go to have a quick bite. If there were guests visiting, she'd spare no time or effort in making some of her delectable cucumber sandwiches. Since it was just her, however, she grabbed some crackers, garnish them with parsley, and start munching in small bites. As she stood in the kitchen, she glanced at the box I had given her.

I might as well, I heard her think. Taking a larger bite than normal, Rarity levitated the box next to her and opened it. Three diamonds held together by a single strand of platinum shines as blue as time itself. There was no doubt in my mind she could see their beauty. The faintest of smiles formed on Rarity’s face, a warm smile. Her hoof reached to take the necklace out if its case.

BAM!

The door burst open. Leaving the box and cracker to fall to the ground, Rarity rushed out of the kitchen. There she froze, staring in horror as her worst fear had come true.

"Hello, sis," Sweetie Belle sniffled, and Rarity could see she was fighting to hold back tears. Her mane was messy, and her forelegs were covered in scars. "I... I'm gonna skip dinner ton—"

Rarity didn't let her sister finish, pulling her into a tight hug. Sweetie Belle remained still for a few seconds, then clung firmly to her, crying into Rarity's fur.

"There, there, Sweetie," Rarity whispered. "You don't have to say a thing." I could feel Rarity's fear, and her hurt, but I could also see her relief. "Just relax, and—"

"I got into a fight," the filly sobbed. "I wanted to be nice, but then he said..." She paused to take a few short sniffling breaths. "...and I... I didn't want to. I really like him, but..."

"Say no more, darling." Rarity looked at her sister, whiling off the tears from her face. This wasn't the first time Sweetie had been in a fight, but each time Rarity reacted the very same way. "Remember what I told you? A lady does not concern herself with—"

"But I'm not a lady!" New tears poured down the filly's cheeks. "You are. I'm just your little sister."

"And that is precisely why I work so hard on keeping my own appearance in top form," Rarity stated with absolutely certainty. A short distance away, Opalescence meowed in vague agreement. "When I was your age, I had barely found my calling, let alone doing something as remarkable as helping ponies find their cutie marks. I know you're upset and hurting right now, but trust me, there's nothing a little ice cream wouldn't fix."

Sweetie Belle accepted reluctantly, as she always would, and followed her sister into the kitchen. A few minutes were spent in silence. Sweetie Belle looked as Rarity took out a bowl of ice cream, then started, dragging her hoof back and forth along the table.

"Rarity, do you think I'm pretty?" the filly asked, making her sister nearly choke. "I mean..." Sweetie visibly struggled for words, her mouth hanging open for a moment. "Ugh… nevermind." She took a bite of her ice cream, ears flopped down.

So it is that time. Rarity sighed. I could tell it was something she wished wouldn’t happen until much later.

"Listen to me, Sweetie." Rarity sat beside her sister. "I know that at the moment, probably nothing makes sense. One moment you feel happy, the next sad, the next angry at everything around you." Sweetie Belle looked at her, eyes wide, eating more if the ice cream. "It's normal. All fillies go through this. In time it'll become all clear and you'll remember if this talk and laugh."

"But when?" Sweetie Belle sniffled. "How long do I have to wait until it becomes clear? Am I pretty... or am I disgusting? How can I tell? How can other ponies tell?" A drop of ice cream fell from her mouth onto the table.

"It'll certainly take less time than it took you to get your cutie mark." Rarity levitated a napkin and wiped the spot on the table. "It'll be far more confusing, though." She sighed, and made herself another cucumber cracker. "Just remember one thing. You are my magnificent little sister."

"I know. And, as everything in Carousel Boutique, I’m fashionably perfect." Sweetie attempted a chuckle.

"See, you understand already." Rarity winked, taking another bite from her snack. "Now, why don't you get another bowl of ice cream and then get some rest?"

"Fiiine," Sweetie Belle said, grabbing the bowl closer. "Oh, and there's another letter for you." The filly levitated it out of her saddlebag. "It was lying on the porch."

Rarity didn't react—visibly, at least. With her usual calm demeanor, she levitated the letter onto the shelf. Without a word Rarity patted her sister on the head and went to the fridge to fetch another serving of ice cream.

"You'll remember to brush your teeth before bed, won't you?" she asked, as she began to clean what little there was in the kitchen.

Sweetie Belle nodded, continuing with her dessert. The first bowl was licked clean, with some effort the second soon followed. I watched Rarity hug her sister and wish her goodnight. The filly was so tired she could barely keep standing. Not Rarity, though... never Rarity. The magnificent unicorn remained in the kitchen, then—once she was certain there were no prying eyes—she opened the envelope.

Why won't you be with me?

I waited. Rarity read and re-read the note for over a minute. Once finished, she folded it away and set it aside, placing it on the top shelf along with my other letter. Without a word to acknowledge my existence, the unicorn went back to work.

Throughout the entire night, she toiled to make the perfect outfit. In the morning, the daily cycle would start again: she would prepare breakfast for her sister, have a small talk—which Sweetie Belle would completely ignore—then send her off to school. Pinkie Pie came exactly five minutes later, hopping to see her party dress. She stared at the mannequin, examining every detail until Rarity lost her nerve. It was only then that Pinkie grabbed it, thanked the unicorn with one of her suffocating hugs, and rushed to catch the train to Canterlot.

I watched in silence as Rarity started packaging the dresses for their destination. When she was halfway through, there was a knock at the door. I could tell what would happen before she even opened: another request, another opportunity that couldn't be missed, and another deadline. Rarity would panic, possibly even faint or cry, but she would accept it as always then get back to work. Her weekly schedule would change so as to accommodate her new workload: a few meetings would be postponed, the visits to the spa—limited, and once again she'd have no time for me. Yet this time I persisted.

Every evening for a week I'd send a letter, placing it on her doorstep. Every night I'd watch her read it. Sometimes she'd smile, sometimes she'd even talk to me, not suspecting I was right beside her. Sometimes I would dare hope she'd finally finished with her excuses, that she would finally stop rejecting me. That time never came. And although Twilight's wake-up spell became weaker and weaker, Rarity would carry on.

One afternoon, I could take it no more. Rarity had just sent her latest batch of clothes to her client in Manehattan. Overjoyed, she ran up the stairs to start work on a new Princess Cadence design. This time, I didn't let her.

My mane filled the boutique like a fine mist, enveloping the unicorn as she walked. I knew that my embrace couldn't make her mine, but it was strong enough to get her to stumble. For a split second, Rarity stepped into the world of semi-consciousness. Finally, we could talk. I grabbed her with my mane, snatching her off the stairs and bringing her softly down to the living room floor.

"Hello, Rarity," I said coldly, shrinking my mane back to normal pony size. I could have left her standing up, but I was too upset to grant her comfort. Since she rejected me, the floor was a perfectly fine spot for her to lie on.

Who are you? Where am I? She looked around in near panic. This must be a dream. Yes, I'm just having another—

"You haven't dreamt in months, Rarity." I looked away, avoiding her gaze. "You haven't slept in months." I sounded more hurt that I should have. There was no reason for her, a simple pony, to invoke such feelings in me... and yet...

"Excuse me?" I felt her come back to her senses. "It is generally impolite to discuss a lady's sleep." Pride mixed with a touch of guilt. "And I would have you know that I have been sleeping just fine. Well, maybe my schedule has been a bit on the unstable side for the last few days, but—"

"You haven't slept in ninety-nine days," I stated flatly, looking her straight in the eye. "And fourteen hours," I added out of spite.

I expected her to respond with one of her snarky comebacks. Stars, I had seen her do that so many times I had lost count. She didn't. Instead, her expression changed from anger to concern. As she looked at me with her large sad eyes, I felt something inside me tingle.

"Have you been crying?" Rarity asked, her voice ringing with tender concern.

"No." I extended my mane over my face. How dare she! She pushes me away all this time, and now she dares act concerned?!

"Darling, if something has happened, it's best to let others know." I felt her hoof on my shoulder. Her touch made me tremble. This was the first time a pony, a creature, had touched me so openly. "Why don't you sit down? I'll make a nice cup of cocoa and we could discuss everything."

I never expected this. I had spent weeks planning this conversation. I thought I had gone through every detail. One minute in her presence, and I could see how wrong I was.

"You're too generous," I said, trying not to pout.

"Darling, please," she laughed, making her way to the kitchen. "It's the least I could do—"

"For rejecting me?" I asked. Instantly, I felt like biting my lip. It was a horrible thing to say, especially to her. Yes, she had done that to me, and yes, I was upset, but I had also grown to… to love her. “For avoiding me,” I corrected. My mane glowed with a soft, morning pink.

"Rejecting you?" Rarity turned around, confusion on her face. "Darling, if I have done so, I am truly sorry, but I don't believe we have met before." She took a few steps forward, each making me feel uneasy. "Was it in Manehattan during fashion week? Or maybe Canterlot?"

I sighed. "I'm Sleep."

"Oooh. Sleep!" She nodded. I could see her racking her mind, desperately trying to remember me. Naturally she wouldn't; she had never seen me. Nopony had. Since the beginning of time, I had no reason to make my presence known. My only task was to take beings into the realm of dreams when they so needed it. It was easy. Even the most stubborn succumbed to my charms…

Until Rarity, that is.

"I’m Sleep," I repeated, my voice slightly more authoritative. "The same you have been avoiding for the last three months!"

"Darling, it is nice you think so highly of me, but—"

Before she could finish, I extended my mane. The room filled with yellowy-pink strands of hair. With little effort I scooped her up into the air, bringing along her mannequins, her cat, her tables, and everything else with n the room. The action brought me some small satisfaction; watching Rarity gasp at my powers, seeing the confusion that went through her mind, I could feel I had managed to impress her. I kept her there for a full five seconds before I let her down again.

You're really Sleep? I heard her think.

"Yes, I am."

Have I really been skipping sleep for three months? I could have sworn that I had a nice long rest only a few days ago, right after I finished—

"No, you haven't." I didn't let her finish. Why did I do that? I wasn't supposed to get this upset. I wasn't supposed to get upset at all. "You only allowed a slight embrace before pushing me away and going back to your stupid dresses!" Stupid? Why did I use that word?

"Well, now!" She huffed, raising her chin. "If you're going to be uncivilized about it, you might as well leave."

"I don't want to leave!" I felt tears of sand roll down my face. "I just..." I sniffed. Why couldn't I think of any words to say? It's this stupid pony form! It must be! I was perfect! Everyone loved me! "Every night I'd come to you. I was there in your time of need. When everyone, even your closest friends, ignored you. They took you for granted, and I didn't! And you still never let me help you. Please. A few hours. That's all I ask. Just a few hours with me..." I stared at the floor. Drops of sand fell down, forming small piles at my hooves.

She didn't say anything. I expected her to feel contempt; I expected to hear ridicule.

"Tell you what, let's sit on the couch," Rarity said softly. "I know I have a busy schedule, but I could spend a few minutes to talk things out."

"Okay," I sniffed. I looked back up at her, and I could see concern in her eyes. Yet even now she was rejecting me.

We walked to her couch—soft red velvet. I lay down first, taking up nearly two-thirds of it. Rarity sat beside me. Her discomfort was apparent, yet her resolve held firm.

"So, how was your day today?" she asked casually. I looked at her. Was this what she wanted? To talk about trivialities until I left again? "Hmm, I suppose that was a stupid question." She tapped her chin with a hoof. "What I really wanted to ask was what being Sleep is really like."

She was lying. What she really wanted to know was why I showed interest in her. Despite all her generosity, Rarity still remained a vain mare.

...Vain in a good way.

"I first noticed you when you skipped a week," I said quietly. "During your autumn collection frenzy. It had been a while since a pony rejected my embrace for so long."

"Oh, don't remind me, darling." Rarity cringed. "Tireless nights of crafting the perfect design, and for what? An honorable mention. I thought I'd die of shame."

I nodded. "You did. And then spent the next two days locked in your room eating ice cream."

"Weeeell, I might have indulged in a few spoonfuls," she said evasively, her cheeks turning slightly pink. The reaction made me smile. "We all have our dark moments." My smile vanished. Everyone had their dark moments, and mine was now.

"I tried to be with you then, to give you the reward you deserved." My voice was weaker than before. This was not at all the light I wanted her to see me in. I was supposed to be powerful, authoritative. "Instead, you ran to Twilight and tricked her into casting an insomnia spell on you."

Rarity said nothing. In her mind I could see she understood exactly what she had done. So, this is what you meant? Each time I avoided sleep, I avoided you. Every night I spent working to make a deadline, I hurt you...

"I’m sorry, darling. Truly, I didn't know..."

"At first I took it as a challenge." I didn't want to stop. Something urged me to say it all, regardless of the consequences. If anypony should see me in my darkest hour, it was her. "I teased you, I kissed you, I wrapped you in my mane dozens of times, waiting for you to succumb, but you never did. Despite everything, I couldn't coax you into my embrace." I must have seemed pathetic, because I felt Rarity place her hoof on my back. "Each time I would come close something would happen. A telegram would come announcing a new contest, or a friend would rush in, crying for you to make a dress in a day, or your cat would start screaming for attention, or your sister would—"

"Yes, they do tend to be rather demanding," Rarity interjected. Her thoughts made me crack a smile through the tears. She was unconsciously trying to determine which was a greater nuisance: Opalescence or Sweetie Belle.

"After a month, I only had eyes for you. I would always be nearby, there but invisible, so close and yet so far away." I sniffed. "I wanted to embrace you, to be with you... yet you never tired."

"Please, darling, you're making me blush," she laughed, trying to brush it off—but I knew it was an act.

"You never tired," I repeated. "Never ever. I was there. I watched, and waited, and hoped, and..." I couldn't force myself to say it. For once I wished that Rarity could read minds. I felt so powerless. I put every creature in Equestria to sleep and I still felt powerless! Tears started rolling down like rivers of sand. "You really messed things up, Rarity..."

"Well, I..." Rarity stopped. For a single instant, both her voice and mind went silent. There was nothing she could say to that. How could she possibly comprehend the consequences to her actions? She, a mortal mare, had made me want something to such an extent that I had gained a form in the physical world. "You sent the letters, didn't you?" she asked, her hooves stroking my mane in an attempt to make me feel better. "You wanted me to notice you."

I didn't need words to let her know that was the case.

"Darling..." She let out a bittersweet sigh. "I really am touched by all of this, honestly, but I just have so much work. I didn't mean to act this way, and I truly love my sleep. It's just that circumstances, being what they are, made it impossible."

My head dropped on the couch. Rejected again, just as I knew I would be. She cared, yet not enough. Sleep always took a backseat to the trivialities of daily life. At least we got to have this talk.

"Still—" I felt her head rest on my side. The sensation made my mane twirl. "—I suppose I could spend five minutes with you. After all, you did take time from your busy schedule just to come here."

Her words shimmered in a incandescent white, gentler than the echoes of sound itself. How could there be so much wonder, so much magnificent fascination in a single pony?

I smiled. You never change, Rarity. You find time to help anyone who asks, constantly at the expense of yourself.

"Rarity..." I whispered, as she finally embraced me, after all this time.

It was morning when Rarity woke up. Stretching with a healthy yawn, she opened a sleepy eye, then closed it back again. A few moments were spent in painless bliss. Then, the pressure of deadlines kicked in. Her mind exploded with tasks, times, and dates. Like a true lady, she got off the couch with dignity and looked around.

"Sleep?" she asked. There was no response. "Sleep, are you still upset with me? Truly, this is no way to behave. I admit that I have been neglecting you, but I did make an effort to—"

She stopped. On the floor, by her hoof, lay a single white piece of paper.

Thank you, Rarity.

Goodbye.