Chapters “Alright, so first we gotta... Rarity?” Applejack turned to see Rarity struggling behind her. She had led Rarity to the barn, although she hadn't realized just how far she had been lagging behind. “You're walkin' funnier than a newborn foal.”
“Well, it's these terrible boots!” Rarity called from several yards away, tripping over herself every other step.
“Ah told ya to get my spare work boots from the closet...” She could already tell what Rarity was about to say, so she finished with, “Those ain't my work boots. Those are my rodeo boots.”
“Well how was I supposed to know that?”
While the two pairs of boots were obviously different, Applejack decided not to explain, and simply face-palmed and started into the barn. “Take em off then, you can do this chore barefoot.”
“Barefoot?” Rarity looked disturbed by such a barbaric suggestion, “I'm fine, thank you for your concern.”
Applejack shook her head. First, Rarity had expressed great concern over ruining her outfit, so Applejack finally gave her the button-up shirt she had been wearing over her own tank top, so Rarity's brand-name tank top wouldn't get stained. Before that she had requested sunblock, and Applejack had to search her house top to bottom to find some. And now, after she sent her back to the house to get some proper footwear, she was wearing the wrong boots and could hardly walk.
“Fine, don't go barefoot,” Applejack suddenly stomped over to Rarity, who tried her best to back away.
“Applejack, what are you...?” Rarity shrieked as Applejack scooped her up and started to carry her to the barn, bridal style. “What are you doing?”
“Carryin' ya, princess.” Her tone was a bit sarcastic, but it was obvious she was just messing around.
Rarity had no idea her friend had the kind of arm strength to pick up a fully grown woman, and she didn't even seem to be struggling with her. It was surprising, but once the initial shock wore off, she started to protest.
“Put me down!”
“If you say so.”
Applejack tossed her, and Rarity shrieked again, although she landed softly on a hay stack in the barn. She had to collect herself before glaring up at Applejack.
“Did you just throw me ?”
Applejack was smiling now, and responded to the question with a shrug and “I might've.” Still smiling, she started over towards several barrels of apples in the corner of the barn. Rarity, on the other hand, didn't look amused by her antics.
“Really, Applejack...” Rarity stood up and brushed herself off, “I come to help you on your farm out of the kindness of my heart, and-”
“Kindness of your heart? Didn't you say somethin' about wantin' to repay me for stoppin' your house from burnin' to the ground?”
Rarity glared at Applejack. That was checkmate, and they both knew it. Rarity had insisted she help her on the farm, to repay Applejack's act of heroism the day before. She had been walking by and noticed smoke coming from Rarity's house, and rushed in to find Sweetie Belle struggling with a fire extinguisher, trying to put out a kitchen fire she'd started. At the thought of Applejack running in and saving her sister, Rarity's expression softened a bit.
“I am very grateful for that, Applejack.”
“You woulda done the same, Rare.” Applejack had reached the barrels of apples and waved for Rarity to come over. “What we're gonna do is empty these barrel of apples into those barrels,” She nodded towards several empty barrels that stood besides the ones filled with apples, “And separate the good, useable ones from the duds.”
Rarity was getting the hang of walking in the dreadful boots, so she made her way over to AJ, and the two got to work. Applejack was working a bit faster than Rarity, who examined the apples more closely than necessary. Plus, she kept glancing up at her companion, waiting for her to say something, but Applejack seemed content to work in silence. Well, Rarity could enjoy the quiet just as much as the farm girl...
By the time the barrel of good apples was filled, and the bad apple barrel was a little over half way full, Rarity couldn't take it anymore. Why wasn't Applejack speaking? Rarity watched as she pushed the filled apple barrel off to the side, and started onto a new barrel.
“Well, this is rather peaceful.” Even the sound of her own voice was nice, considering it had to have been at least half an hour of no talking.
“Yep.”
“Is it usually like this on the farm?”
“Yep.”
Rarity wasn't giving up just yet. “Oh, really?”
“... Yep.”
“Is that all you can say?”
Applejack smiled a little, “Nope.”
“Ugh!” Frustrated, Rarity picked up an apple and threw it at Applejack, hitting her in the shoulder.
“Watch it Rarity,” She cast a playful glare at her assailant and menacingly started tossing the apple she had been holding from one hand to the other, “You don't want an apple chuckin' battle on your hands.”
“Oh?” Rarity lifted a hand, and the apple that her friend had been tossing froze in mid air as it was engulfed by light blue magic. “I think I can handle myself.” The apple suddenly shot up and hit Applejack in the forehead, then fell to the ground.
Applejack looked stunned, but recovered quickly and went to pick up an armful of apples as Rarity started to back away, a smirk on both of their faces. Rarity had forgotten about the boots though. She stumbled backwards with a startled scream, and landed flat on her rump.
“Ow...”
“You alright sug'?”
“Yes,” Rarity said with a smile. She was honestly surprised Applejack wasn't laughing or doing a victory dance. “It's very noble of you to-”
Applejack cut her off as she burst into laughter, gripping her sides and doubling over with the force of it.
“We Apples have a rule: If they're okay, laugh away!”
Still chuckling a little, she stepped over and offered Rarity a hand, who simply frowned and crossed her arms.
“C'mon Rare, I'll help ya up. And take off those damn boots.”
With a groan she slipped out of the boots, then grabbed onto Applejack's hand and was hoisted to her feet.
“See? Dirt don't bite.”
The two returned to their positions by the barrels, Rarity trying her best not to get any dirt on her perfectly pedicured toenails. The silence returned once again, and Rarity was starting to come to terms with it. Applejack liked to focus on her work.
“So how was your week, Rare?”
Rarity blinked. “It was fine, thank you.”
“No problem. Anythin' excitin' goin' on in town?”
“Oh, not really. I have a date this Friday with Noteworthy.”
Applejack didn't respond to that, but started tossing apples into the barrel with increased vigor.
“Darling, is something wrong?”
Applejack paused her work, but hesitated to answer. “That fella who thinks he's a bigshot musician? What are you runnin' around with him for?”
“He is a bigshot musician, Appplejack.” Rarity wasn't sure what was going on with her friend, but she felt the need to defend her date. “Maybe not a super star, but he is very well known in the music industry.”
“Everyone knows those types of fellas ain't trustworthy.” Appplejack was practically throwing the apples into the barrel now, and Rarity had stopped her work to watch her curiously.
“Do you even know him?”
“Not personally.”
“Then you shouldn't be so quick to judge him.”
Silence once again, excluding the heavy thud of apples as they were thrown into the barrel. Rarity was nicely placing them, while Applejack showed no mercy on the fruit.
“Applejack, are you upset?”
Applejack stopped her throwing and blinked, looking bewildered. “Upset?”
“Don't play dumb with me darling, it's insulting.”
Applejack huffed, “No, Ah ain't upset! Ah jus' think you're deservin' of someone better than Noteworthy.”
“Well, this is the first time he and I have decided to get together. It's nothing serious,” Rarity started to examine apples again, “There is really nothing for you to get worked up over.”
“Ah ain't worked up.”
She had returned to gently setting apples in the barrel rather than throwing them, but Rarity wasn't letting her off the hook so easily.
“So... who would you consider within my league, Applejack?”
“Ah dunno, does Derpy have a brother?”
Rarity blamed herself for not seeing that one coming from a mile away.
“I don't think so... but I know one challenged woman who has a brother.” Applejack looked up to see Rarity pointing at her. She continued, “He is quite the farm boy, isn't he? Strong and handsome... Perhaps he should be my next romantic endeavor?”
Applejack was clenching her fists and giving Rarity a spiteful look.
“What, is your brother not good enough for me either?”
Applejack started to say something, but Rarity spoke over her. “Look, Applejack, Ms. Element of Honesty... you don't need to hide your feelings from me.” Rarity's tone had changed entirely, she wasn't teasing her anymore. Applejack looked down at her feet, feeling awkward. Rarity had caught on to her, and she didn't know what to say right away.
“It's perfectly fine that you feel this way about me...” Rarity stepped forward and put a hand on Applejack's shoulder. “Just because there might be a man in my life, doesn't mean I'm going to abandon my friends!”
Applejack's jaw dropped. “What? You think...”
“Yes, you're very worried about our friendship being jeopardized, but I assure you, you are very important to me! Nothing could break such a bond as ours.”
Applejack could feel her eye twitch slightly as Rarity smiled at her. “Does that make you feel better?”
"No, not a bit.” Applejack grabbed Rarity's wrist and removed her hand from her shoulder. “Rarity, ya don't get it. Ah ain't upset cuz Ah think you're gonna ditch me.”
“Well, of course you are! Applejack, dear, you need to come to terms with your feelings.”
“Fine,” Applejack folded her arms, “Ya really drive me up the wall sometimes. You're everythin' Ah'm not. Ya love fashion, ya can't stand dirt or manual labor, everythin' always has to be just so . It's a pain sometimes, but it's one of those pains that's pretty nice... like, after a good long while of harvestin' apples, Ah'll be sore all over, but I love that feelin'.”
Rarity seemed to be listening intently. “So... I'm a pain?”
Applejack realized that probably wasn't the best analogy, but she decided to work with it. “Yeah, you're a pain. One I love, and couldn't imagine livin' without... You mean a lot to me, that's what I'm tryin' to say, Rare. I got jealous when you mentioned your date..."
Rarity stared at Applejack for a moment, a bit in awe. That was probably one of the most heartfelt confessions Rarity had ever received. Most of what she heard were either unoriginal or quite fake, and an obvious attempt at getting her into bed. Even though it was rather amateurish, Applejack had obviously meant every word. If it had been from a man, she probably wouldn't have hesitated to kiss him. But it wasn't coming from a man. It was coming from her very good, very female friend. And her friend was waiting for her to say something, so she managed to stammer out one of the many questions that arose in her mind.
“You're a lesbian?”
Applejack nodded as she rolled an apple around underneath her boot.
“And you're in love with me.”
“Maybe more like a crush.” Applejack was trying to make it sound more nonchalant, but it didn't seem to be working.
Rarity tapped her chin, looking deep in thought. It would be such a terrible scandal if word got out of the esteemed fashion genius at Carousel Boutique having an affair with a woman. Of course, there were plenty of gays in the fashion industry, but lesbian, bisexual women who were fashion designers? That was unheard of to her, unless all of them were in the closet.
Why was she even thinking about this? Did she want Applejack? Of course not! Rarity was straight, end of discussion.
Rarity looked at Applejack, and somehow couldn't put the rejection into words. Fight or flight, was that what they called it? Right now, Rarity needed to choose flight.
“I... have to go,” Rarity suddenly turned and practically ran towards the exit of the barn.
“What?” Applejack was stunned, “Rarity!” She could have easily caught up with her, and she started to, but stopped half way to the exit. She decided to let her go, and once she was gone, Applejack let a string of curses fly, directed at herself more than anyone else.
The next few days passed by quickly. Rarity had quite a large order of robes she needed to make for a wizardry convention, which were due for pick-up Thursday evening. Although it wasn't what she usually specialized in, she had been presented an offer she couldn't refuse. Robes weren't very complicated, after all, it was simply a time consuming process to make them. She was very happy to have something to keep her busy though.
Thursday came along, and with her anticipated date with Noteworthy only a day away, Rarity managed to push any thoughts of her encounter with Applejack out of her mind and pump herself up for the date. It was going to be exciting, since he was something of a celebrity. One of those musicians that even if you didn't know his name, you had heard a song or two by him before. And he was handsome, to boot. He would be on top of the charts in no time.
“Hey, Rarity!”
It was early in the morning, and Rarity had just emerged from the bathroom, with her body wrapped in a towel and her hair wrapped in another. Sweetie Belle suddenly barged into her room, but that wasn't unusual for her. “I found this in the laundry pile, but I don't know who it belongs to,” She tossed a shirt over to Rarity, who managed to catch it and held it up to look over. “It doesn't look like something you would wear.”
She quickly recognizing the button up, yellow and orange plaid garment as Applejack's. Rarity had been wearing it the day she had gone to help on the orchard... and she had left with it. Since the two hadn't spoken since then, she hadn't really had an opportunity to return it. Rarity wasn't holding it far from her face, and she could smell the faint aroma of apples. As she put the shirt down on her bed, the smell disappeared.
“This is Applejack's, Sweetie Belle. I'll return it when I get the chance.”
“Okay then. You want me to wash it?”
“No, no, it's fine.”
“Why not? I'm doing lights.”
“I said no!” Rarity snapped, and Sweetie Belle backed down.
“Okay, weirdo...” With that, her little sister left the room, closing the door after her. As soon as she was gone, Rarity picked up the shirt, holding it close enough so she could catch the smell of the orchard again. She wondered if it smelled that way because she had been working around apples while wearing it, or if the smell was simply ingrained into the shirt from Applejack working the orchard so frequently. Or, for all she knew, she could have spilled applesauce on it. No matter the reason, Rarity had to force herself to pull the shirt away, and finally tossed it onto the bed with a frustrated groan.
“Don't lose your sanity, Rarity.” The deadline for her robes was this evening, and she needed her wits about her if she was going to make it in time. With no time to spare, she dressed, did her makeup and hair, then got right to work.
The men from the wizardry convention arrived later than they had said they would, but Rarity didn't complain, and used the extra time to make sure her creations were perfect. They seemed happy with her work, and apologized profusely for picking them up so late at night. She insisted she didn't mind, but as soon as they were gone, she realized just how tired she was. Sweetie Belle had already gone to bed, and as Rarity trudged up the stairs to her own room, she wondered if sleeping in the hallway was such a bad idea. Luckily, she was in front of her bed before she knew it, and practically collapsed onto the soft comforter, quickly falling asleep.
She awoke the next day, and surprisingly, it was already afternoon. She had a wonderfully restful night, and the best part was waking up to the fragrance of apples. Or, at least, it was the best part until she realized she was clutching Applejack's shirt to her chest like a teddy bear.
Finally ready for a wonderful date, Rarity had finished her makeup, hair, and wardrobe just in time. Noteworthy would be here any minute, and her expectations for the evening were high. Once he arrived, he and Rarity would walk down to a new restaurant that had opened down the street, Noteworthy occasionally commenting on how beautiful Rarity was as they went along. They would have a delightful dinner, engaging in conversation over his many musical talents and Rarity's own gift with designing wonderfully original garments. Perhaps he would even sing her a few bars of an improvised song, inspired by the violet haired beauty herself? That would be fantastic! By the end of the evening, Noteworthy would walk Rarity up to her doorstep, the two would kiss under the moonlight, neither wanting to part, but both knowing they must not rush things.
It was going to be perfect!
As if on cue, a knock came from the door, and Rarity rushed to open it at first, but caught herself and slowed down, not wanting to seem desperate. When she reached the door, it wasn't exactly who she had expected.
“Hey Rarity,” Applejack's tone wasn't exactly cheerful, but Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle were at her side, so she tried her best to keep her greeting friendly. Now that she recalled, Sweetie Belle had gone off to play with her friends, but it had been so quiet Rarity had forgotten all about that.
“Rarity! Can I spend the night at Applebloom's house? Please?” Sweetie Belle was beaming, and Rarity glanced at Applejack, who was now looking at the ground rather than at Rarity. “Applejack said it was okay, and Scootaloo is staying too. Please, can I?”
“Of course you can,” Rarity forced a smile, and the three girls cheered, then darted passed her into the house. Rarity looked confused.
“Why are they coming in here?”
“Sweetie Belle needs somethin' to change into Ah guess. Beats me why the other two went in.”
“I see.”
“Yep.”
Silence. Applejack was avoiding eye contact, and Rarity couldn't be feeling more terrible. Finally, Applejack looked up, and seemed like she wanted to say something, but before she could, the three girls had come running back to the front door. Sweetie Belle had a bag of what she needed for the sleepover, and she and Applebloom were apparently trying to catch Scootaloo. Applejack took the opportunity to leave.
“Well, I'll see ya around, Rare. C'mon gals,” She had driven over from Sweet Apple Acres, and her worn out pick-up was parked in front of the house. She started towards it, and the three girls stopped their game of tag and started to argue over who would be doomed to sit in the middle of them.
“Applejack, wait.” Rarity started towards her friend, who had obediently stopped and turned around. “I don't mind. Your crush, or you being who you are. It's all fine with me.”
It was quiet, save for the girls climbing into the car, unaware of the suddenly heavy moment between the two women. Applejack was hanging her head, and didn't seem like she was going to say anything, so Rarity spoke again.
“It doesn't mean anything has to change.”
With an annoyed exhale, Applejack turned back towards her car, confusing Rarity. She expected Applejack would be glad to hear that they could still be friends. She didn't want to leave things like this, so instead of letting her go, she jogged up to Applejack and grabbed her by the shoulder.
“Apple-”
Applejack had suddenly turned around, and Rarity stumbled forward, though Applejack caught her, then dropped her hands back at her sides. The two were pressed together, and neither of them made any move to back away. Instead, Rarity simply looked up at the slightly taller woman who was glaring at her.
“Ya don't know what it's like to be rejected, do ya?” Applejack snapped. Rarity felt like the natural reaction would be to back away, but instead found herself very focused on how close their faces were, and how little distance there was between her and Applejack's lips. “Ah bet ya always get whoever ya want.”
She was so close, and Rarity caught the scent of apples once again, though it was much stronger than the garment she had shoved under her bed this afternoon. Was that how Applejack smelled naturally? She wondered if her lips would taste like apples. The thought was tempting...
“Ah just wanna be left alone. For... a while.” Applejack went back towards her car, leaving Rarity to almost lose her footing. She hadn't realized she was leaning against her.
Rarity felt weak in the knees as she watched the truck disappear down the road, and hardly noticed as a different car pulled up behind her, taking up the spot where Applejack's truck had been.
“If it isn't the beautiful Rarity!”
Rarity quickly straightened up and turned to greet Noteworthy, trying to appear as cool headed as she could. She had forgotten, this was going to be her perfect date. Noteworthy would be charming, the dinner would be divine, and most importantly, she would forget all about Applejack.
Noteworthy's outfit was a bit casual, but he was a musician after all, and they were the types to go against the grain. He wore an expensive-looking leather jacket over a black shirt and a pair of tight fitting white-washed jeans, and his hair was styled up in a fauxhawk.
The walk over to the restaurant went according to plan, save for a few small details. Noteworthy was supposed to tell Rarity how gorgeous she was, and the two would get lost in each other's eyes. Well, he almost accomplished it; he looked Rarity over, and happily deemed her “sexy as hell.” It was close enough, and Rarity wasn't about to complain at a simple change in wording.
The restaurant had wonderful service and delicious food, but the conversation over dinner had taken a turn for the worse. It started with him sprinkling compliments here and there, using adjectives like “hot” and “fine”, which Rarity didn't particularly enjoy to start with, but as they were waiting on the server to return with a check, his advances became a bit more blatant.
“You look so hot in that dress, I can't wait to rip it off you tonight.” With that said, he placed a hand on Rarity's thigh beneath the table.
“Pardon?” Rarity was a bit stunned at first, but managed to compose herself and remove his hand.
“I said, I can't wait to rip off that dress, and-”
“Yes, that's what I thought you said.” Rarity should have seen this coming, after all of his word choices. “Noteworthy, darling, this is our first date. We hardly know each other...” Notworthy raised an eyebrow, not quite grasping what she was saying, so Rarity made it simpler. “I'm not sleeping with you tonight.”
To her surprise, Noteworthy laughed. “Playing hard to get, are we?”
“No, I am not playing. I would suggest finding a more... floozy date if that is all you're interested in.” Rarity picked up her wine glass and took a casual sip, and when she glanced up at her date, he seemed to have finally gotten the message.
“You can't be serious. You're going to turn down one of the greatest up-and-coming musical talents-”
“Let me stop you right there, because I'm really not interested in hearing the rest of your conceited speech regarding your wounded pride.” She swirled the wine in her glass, then raised it to her lips and finished it off.
After the bill had been paid, which Noteworthy demanded be split so Rarity would have to pay for her half, they walked back to Rarity's house in silence. He reached his car, she reached her front door, and she was entirely prepared to part ways with the obnoxious musician. The encounter with Applejack only hours before was still fresh in her mind. She had really wanted to kiss her... really wanted to kiss her. And now she had just rejected a handsome, wealthy, ambitious man. She heard his car turn on behind her, the headlights shining on her house as he started to pull out of the driveway.
Rarity suddenly turned and marched over to the car, which had stopped moving at the sight of her approach. Noteworthy rolled down his window. “What do you want?”
Rarity hesitated, then finally said, “I changed my mind. You should come inside.”
As usual, Applejack awoke as the first rays of sunlight began to peek over the horizon. An alarm wasn't necessary, or any sort of wake-up call, since she had been waking up at this time for years and her body now did it out of habit. An early start was healthy, after all, and there was always plenty to do with the extra hours in the day.
Once she was up, Applejack began to dress in one of her typical work outfits. Jeans, a pair of worn boots, and a button-up shirt she threw on over a tank top, though she didn't bother actually doing up the buttons. She moved on to tying back her hair, and as she did, her mind started to wander. She tried to prevent it, but it wasn't long before she started to think about Rarity. Applejack didn't know why she was being such a child about this, pouting and hiding out on her farm. Couldn't she handle a rejection like an adult? She needed to accept it for what it was, and move on. In fact, she felt an apology was in order for the way she had acted, and she could tell Rarity that she did still want to be friends. That would be the mature thing to do, and in the end, it would all be for the best.
Applejack grabbed her hat off of her bed post and started down the hallway, quietly making her way past Applebloom's room, not wanting to wake the girls. Breakfast, an hour or two of work, then she'd go swallow her pride and give Rarity the apology she deserved.
Rarity hadn't slept at all, and by the time it was morning, she was still awake. Mentally exhausted, but awake. She felt as if she had committed some sort of betrayal, and her conscience wasn't letting it be. Of course she hadn't done anything wrong, she wasn't committed to anyone at the moment... but the sinking feeling in her stomach told her otherwise. She felt awful, and finally decided around seven that it was time to take a shower, and try to wash away the miserable feeling. Once she was up and headed to the bathroom, she didn't look back at the snoring man in her bed.
It wasn't like her to have a fling, but she had wanted to prove to herself she was still interested in men... and only men. She knew Noteworthy wasn't the optimal choice, but last night, she didn't have any options. Besides, did it really matter who it was with when it was a purely physical relationship? He had condoms, she had to convince herself she was straight... it was a practically perfect match.
As she washed her hair, she corrected her thoughts. It wasn't perfect, not even close. She recalled how Applejack had picked her up days before, and had asked Noteworthy to do the same. He couldn't, and wouldn't even attempt it, using the excuse, “I'm a musician, not a body builder.” He was a sloppy kisser, a selfish lover, and his endurance was pathetic. It was all over before Rarity knew it, and she was disappointed, yet a part of her was a little relieved.
Who was she trying to fool here? She knew she was attracted to Applejack in every sense of the word. Her personality, her physique, her cute little southern accent, the whole package. And the feelings seemed to be mutual, so why couldn't they be together? She wished it was as simple as that.
People would talk, it would ruin her image, she could kiss her Canterlot social life goodbye, her clients would disappear, and basically, her world would fall apart.
Rarity got out of the shower and toweled off, and when she stepped back into her room, she was glad to see Noteworthy had left. She had made it clear last night that it was a one night stand, and it seemed fitting that he leave without a proper goodbye.
She dressed, did her hair in the bathroom, then walked over to the vanity dresser in her room to do her makeup. She quickly noticed though, Noteworthy's shirt was there, on the dresser, where it had been carelessly thrown the night before. She knew he wouldn't leave without his shirt... so, was he downstairs? Fixing breakfast maybe. That was odd, but Rarity didn't check right away, wanting to finish her daily routine of hair, clothing and makeup. She did work a bit faster than usual though.
When she was done, Rarity headed to the kitchen, noting the leather jacket that was still in the hallway from the night before. Once she was downstairs, she saw Noteworthy sitting at the kitchen table, holding a bag of frozen peas to his left eye. He was shirtless, and looked rather miserable.
“Hey...” It was a feeble greeting, and seemed to be all he wanted to say. Nonetheless, Rarity gave him a curious look, and he lowered the bag from his face. She gasped.
“What in the world happened to you??”
He put the bag back, covering up his hideously bruised eye.
“Some bitchy cowgirl punched me in the face.”
This was terrible, absolutely awful. Rarity was pacing her kitchen, mortified beyond words. Why did Applejack have to find out about last night? There wasn't any explanation she could create, any apology she could give that would fix this. Of all the worst things that could happen, this was... well, it wasn't good.
It wasn't as if she had cheated on Applejack, but somehow she felt like she had. She was betting her friend thought very little of her now, and maybe didn't even want anything to do with her anymore. She could give Applejack a heartfelt apology, and hope for the best, couldn't she?
“Yeah, I'm fine, thanks for asking.”
Rarity stopped pacing and looked over at Noteworthy. “It's only a black eye. You'll live.”
“It isn't only a black eye.” Noteworthy stood up, with a bit of effort, and pulled down his jeans and underwear.
“Oh dear...”
“She kicked me in the groin. Twice. And I think she was wearing steel toed boots.” He pulled his pants back up and slowly sat back down on the chair, wincing as he did.
Rarity understood that his black eye and bruised testicles were probably going to make his drive home miserable, and possibly dangerous, but she wanted him to leave. Now that she thought about it, it was a bit cruel to make him drive in his injured state... and she was the element of generosity, was she not?
“Noteworthy, I feel bad, so... you can keep those peas. Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to forget your face as soon as possible. If you could gather your things and leave, that would be wonderful.”
Noteworthy grumbled something under his breath and slowly stood up again, then limped over to the stairs. Rarity ignored him and started her pacing once again.
She wanted to apologize to Applejack, but she realized that saying sorry wouldn't make much sense. They weren't together, so she could sleep with whoever she wanted. Why did she feel like she had some sort of romantic attachment to her?
Gosh, I don't know Rarity, maybe because you love her?
Rarity cringed at her own sarcastic thoughts. That was exactly it, but she wasn't going to own up to her emotions any time soon. But the fact of the matter was, Rarity had probably hurt Applejack, and she needed to put her own fears aside for a bit. Even telling her that she hadn't intended for Applejack to meet Noteworthy would be better than doing nothing.
Speaking of which, Noteworthy had just reached the bottom of the stairs, and was hobbling to the door. He begrudgingly said goodbye as he swung it open.
“Bye, tell the boys to get well soon.”
He shot her a one eyed glare, then slammed the door as he left. Rarity snickered, and watched him from the window as he limped over to his car.
The walk to Sweet Apple Acres wouldn't have been so bad if it wasn't for the heat. Rarity didn't own a car since she typically used taxis for short distances and trains for longer ones, so she seemed to have no other option. She considered bringing a parasol, but decided to simply tough it out for once. At least this time she knew to wear good walking shoes.
Her thoughts circled around Applejack, and she tried to decide on what exactly she was going to say to her. Every time she thought of some line that might help smooth things over, she imagined Applejack's counter-argument, or her losing her temper. So, she ended up scraping every idea, and decided it would be best to simply wing it.
It wasn't all that long before she was on the Apple family's doorstep. She took a deep breath to steady her nerves, then knocked on the door. Big Mac answered, and Rarity wasn't sure if she was relieved or not.
“Hey, you here for Sweetie Belle?”
“Actually... no. I'm looking for Applejack. Do you know where she is?”
“Eeyup. She's pickin' apples on the orchard, should be just south of the barn.”
“Thank you Big Mac.”
He closed the door, and Rarity sighed. She wasn't excited about more walking, but went off in the direction of the barn. The confrontation with Applejack was fast approaching, and Rarity's nerves were returning. She considered going back, but spotted Applejack pushing a wheelbarrow through the orchard, and quickly tossed that notion aside.
She didn't seem to notice Rarity right away, watching the wheelbarrow of apples rather than the path in front of her. Rarity went over, and spoke up to get her attention.
“... Hello.”
Applejack looked up, and set the wheelbarrow down when she saw her.
“Howdy Rare,” Rarity prepared herself to be berated with insults or accusations. Instead, Applejack cheerfully asked, “What brings you out here?”
That wasn't what she had expected. “I... came out to see you. I thought you might be upset.”
“Nah, Ah'm fine.”
Was there another cowgirl in town who could have showed up on her doorstep and attacked Noteworthy? She didn't think so, but Applejack seemed to be too calm to have acted so irrationally. She seemed to pick up on Rarity's confusion.
“Ah'm not upset that you were rollin' in the hay with some fella.”
“... You aren't?”
“No, Ah'm not. Not anymore,” Applejack went and sat down at the base of a nearby apple tree, and motioned for Rarity to join her. She did, despite the possibility of getting dirt or grass stains on her clothes. “Rarity, Ah just want you to be happy. If Ah ain't the one makin' you happy, then that's all right...” Applejack's tone suddenly turned resentful, “But that damn Noteworthy ain't for you. He was talkin' like you were some prize he'd won. He's not the kinda guy you want to hang around... and Ah know ya well enough to see you're far from happy.”
Rarity was dumbfounded. Applejack was supposed to be angry, jealous, or at the very least, judging her harshly. Instead, she came out of nowhere with “I just want you to be happy”? And was only upset at Noteworthy for talking about her like an object...?
“Weren't you jealous of my date with him?”
“Yeah, Ah was.” Applejack was looking up into the tree, and Rarity was watching her intently. “But Ah realized Ah should try'n let it go. You prefer men, so a'course it ain't meant to be. Long as you're with someone who treats ya right-”
Rarity had heard enough. She lifted her hand to Applejack's cheek and turned her head to face her, and gave her a kiss. Applejack's eyes widened in shock, but Rarity didn't see, hers were shut. Her kiss was passionate and forceful...she had been wanting this for a while, and she could hardly control herself, let alone be gentle.
“You're too perfect,” Rarity said breathlessly, pulling away only long enough to speak. Applejack seemed to be resisting kissing her back, and when Rarity noticed, she was only more determined to get a reaction out of her. Maybe she was in a state of shock? But finally, Applejack started returning the kiss, and Rarity took this as the green light to go all out.
She pressed herself against Applejack, then decided that wasn't good enough, so she sat up on her knees, not breaking the kiss, and positioned herself so she was straddling Applejack's legs. She needed to breathe, so she leaned away, and decided to get a feel of Applejack's body as she caught her breath. Her hands wandered up her t-shirt, and she immediately noticed how much softer her skin was, compared to a man's. Did Applejack use a special moisturizer, or was that how women felt in general? She decided not to wonder why that was, and simply enjoy it.
She didn't notice, Applejack looked conflicted.
Applejack's shirt had moved up with Rarity's hands, and she noticed the tan lines half way up her torso, as if she sometimes tied up her shirt up when she worked. It was...sexy. She wanted to see more. Rarity removed her hands from the shirt, and started to undo the buckle on Applejack's belt.
“Rare, Ah'm a might unsure about this...” Despite her complaint, Applejack didn't struggle, keeping her arms pressed up against the tree trunk behind her. Rarity tugged at Applejack's jeans, but stopped once they were midway down her thigh. She was looking over Applejack's underwear. Boyshorts, with a design on the corner. When she realized the design was of a bushel of apples, Rarity looked up at Applejack and smiled.
“You are so cute.”
Had Rarity ever wanted anyone this much? She didn't think so. She started to pull Applejack's jeans further down, until Applejack succeeded at getting her attention.
“Rarity!” She had to raise her voice, but at least it worked. “Look...” Applejack couldn't hold Rarity's gaze, so she looked away. “Ah think you should go.”
Rarity was noticeably shocked, but finally managed to say something. “Oh.”
Had she moved too fast for her? It was all rather sudden, Rarity had to admit. Or maybe... Applejack no longer had feelings for her at all? Either way, the tables had turned, how painfully ironic... she was now the one being rejected, and it felt terrible.
Rarity stood, with as much dignity as she could, and Applejack pulled her jeans back to their proper place around her waist.
“I'll... be going then.”
The humiliation was unbearable, so without any further hesitation, Rarity started towards town.
“Do you need a ride?"
Rarity looked over her shoulder at Applejack, and smiled halfheartedly.
“I'll be fine.”
The weather was rather fitting, Rarity thought, since she had felt as though a cloud had been hanging over her for the past two days. Now, being caught in a torrent, it seemed like her gloomy feelings had suddenly become tangible, and were soaking her to the bone. She had an umbrella, but it wasn't very helpful; the wind was causing the rain to fall at an angle, and making it impossible to stay dry.
She had met a potential client for dinner, and now had a decent sized order to fill, which she knew she should be happy about, but instead felt like she had just been given a chore. She spent the last two days moping around, and she wasn't in the mood to return to work, yet knew it was probably for the best that she get back into her regular routine. Sitting around feeling sorry for herself simply wouldn't cut it. She needed to move on.
Through the downpour she could still spot her house, and sped up her pace once it came into view. Not because she wanted to get out of the rain... but because there was a familiar pick up truck parked out front.
She closed her umbrella and fumbled with her keys once she reached her house, but finally managed to get the door unlocked and stepped inside.
Rarity quickly spotted Applejack, sitting at the kitchen table. She had apparently been reading a book, which she put down when she spotted Rarity.
“Applejack?”
“Hey,” Applejack greeted her with a wave, then gestured towards the book, “Somethin' Twilight let me borrow. It's 'bout some pioneer... and borin' as the day is long.”
Rarity was confused, but tried not to jump to conclusions. Applejack seemed happy; she was smiling, after all... but then again, she seemed anxious as well. Oh, why did she have to be so hard to read?
“I see...” Rarity had forgotten just how uncomfortable she was in her wet clothes, more focused on Applejack, and the sudden rush of emotions the sight of her brought on. Despite all that had happened, she felt as though playing it cool would be her best option.
“So, what brings you here?”
“Well, Ah decided to stop by,”Applejack started as she stood from the table, “And see if you two were prepared for the storm. Sweetie Belle let me in.”
“You drove all the way here for that?”
Applejack shrugged and continued, “It's the neighborly thing to do, ain't it? Well... Sweetie Belle asked me if it was all right if she spent the night with Applebloom again, so Ah drove her over to Sweet Apple Acres, but came back cuz Ah figured I should tell ya where your sister was.”
“Makes sense...” Despite her words, Rarity thought something about the story seemed off, but she didn't want to call Applejack out on it, so she simply nodded. “Did you need anything else? You might want to head out before the storm gets any worse.”
“You're eager to get rid of me, ain't ya...” Applejack stepped around Rarity and started for the door. Once again, Applejack had managed to make Rarity feel terribly guilty, and she had to fix it. So, right before Applejack reached the door, Rarity moved in front of it.
“I'm sorry, all right? About the other day... I'm sorry Applejack, I thought...” Rarity paused, then looked down and sighed, “I don't know what I thought.”
“I'll tell ya what ya thought.” Applejack folded her arms, and Rarity flinched, prepared for the worst.
“Ya thought our first time could be as unromantic as most fellas make it seem. But Ah ain't most fellas.” With a chuckle, she added, “Ah ain't even a fella.” That being said, Applejack took Rarity by the hand and started up the nearby stairs. Rarity followed unquestioningly, her curiosity getting the best of her. When they finally reached their destination, Rarity's bedroom, she gasped and raised a hand to cover her mouth.
The lights were off, but the room was lit by a number of candles placed all over, and in the dim light Rarity could see rose petals scattered across the bed.
“Our first time ain't gonna be up against a tree in the middle of my orchard. It's gonna be done proper.”
“This... this is the most romantic thing anyone has ever done for me.” Applejack smiled at the approval, but suddenly, Rarity turned and whacked her on the arm. “Why couldn't you have just told me it was about the location? I thought you hated me!”
“Cuz then Ah couldn't have surprised you,” Applejack said as she rubbed the spot she'd been hit, “It wasn't easy, tellin' you to leave.” She looked very pleased with the situation, until Rarity started to frown.
“Applejack... I don't think I deserve this. Or you... what happened between Noteworthy and I, it wasn't right of me to-”
“Oh, c'mon Rarity.” Applejack rolled her eyes, and Rarity looked surprised at being cut off. “Ya had a fling with some unsavory character... so what? We weren't together...” Applejack took Rarity's hand again, and gave it a reassuring squeeze. “But after tonight, Ah'd like to think that'll change.”
Without further ado, Applejack placed her hands on Rarity's waist and pulled her into a kiss, which was entirely unlike their first. Applejack was being surprisingly gentle, and the kiss wasn't rushed in the slightest, giving it a much more sensual feel. Rarity was entirely mesmerized by the way she was being kissed; slowly, but building up. She hardly noticed as Applejack started to guide her into the room, and when they reached the bed, Applejack suddenly grabbed Rarity from behind the knees and plopped her onto it, drawing a startled gasp out of her. She quickly regained her composure though, and sat up, starting to unbutton Applejack's top as she stood at the edge of the bed.
Applejack stood there as she removed her shirt, but the moment it was off, she crawled onto the bed, and Rarity retreated to the base of the headboard. Applejack moved so she was on top of her, and after a quick once-over of Rarity, she broke the silence that had enveloped the room.
“Well, damn. Never thought this would happen, to be honest...”
“Applejack, darling... as much as I appreciate it... can we please save the heartfelt musings for later?” Rarity put a hand on the back of Applejack's neck and tried to pull her into a kiss, but she wouldn't budge. Instead, and much to Rarity's frustration, she chuckled.
“Look at you, all fired up...”
Rarity was prepared with a retort, but before she could say anything, Applejack had started unbuttoning her blouse, and was surprisingly quick, despite using only one hand. Rarity sat up for a moment to remove it the rest of the way, and Applejack took the opportunity to reach behind her and undo the white, lacy bra she was wearing.
Rarity took the two articles of clothing and dropped them onto the floor beside the bed, being careful not to hit any candles. When she turned her attention back to Applejack, she was suddenly grabbed by her shoulders and shoved back onto the bed. The sudden use of force was startling, but welcome, as was the unexpectedly aggressive kiss Applejack had initiate.
Rarity quickly realized it was a lost cause battling for control of the situation. Something had quite suddenly come over Applejack... suddenly, but wonderfully, though Rarity was curious what had been triggered in Applejack's mind.
Applejack had moved down from Rarity's lips, now leaving bites along her neck and shoulder, hard enough that they would probably leave marks. It would be a blatant lie if she said she wasn't enjoying it, but bite marks on visible parts of her body simply wouldn't do.
“Darling... you can't leave marks.” Her voice didn't sound quite as assertive as she would have liked. In fact, she was a bit breathless, and her speech a bit forced.
Applejack sat up straight, looked down at her heavily breathing counterpart, and gave her a rather serious look.
“Ah'm gonna leave marks.” It wasn't a question, or a request for permission. “If anyone asks tomorrow, tell em it was some fella. But tonight, don't worry about anyone else... it's just us.”
After a moment of hesitation on Rarity's part, she finally nodded and smiled, which Applejack returned... until the heartwarming exchange was abruptly interrupted by Applejack shoving her hand down Rarity's pencil skirt.
“I don't get it... why can't we just, like, pick our own partners?”
Silver Spoon nodded, agreeing with Diamond Tiara while side-stepping a large puddle.
“I mean, someone like me shouldn't have to do a lame science project with a loser like Scootaloo...”
“Well, Featherweight isn't any better...”
“At least you know where he lives!” With a snicker, Diamond Tiara added, “I bet Scootaloo's, like, an orphan, who sleeps on park benches.”
Silver Spoon chimed in with, “That would explain her taste in fashion; she's a hobo!”
Clad in fancy coats, skin tight jeans and designer rain boots, the two companions had no problem flaunting their rich girl statuses as they walked through town. As they saw it, what was the point in paying the middle-class residents a visit if it wasn't going to remind them how ridiculously loaded their daddies are? There was no point, really... well, except for finding out where exactly Scootaloo was, and then returning Featherweight's camera.
“I can't believe Featherweight left that nice camera at your house...” Diamond Tiara glanced over at the purse dangling from Silver Spoon's shoulder, “What kind is it? I'm going to ask daddy to get me one.”
“Oh, it's... um...” Silver Spoon quickly retrieved the camera from her bag, and looked it over. “I don't know, does it say somewhere on here?”
“Let me see it.”
With the camera in hand, Diamond Tiara stopped walking so she could examine it for a moment. Silver Spoon continued on for a few steps, until she realized her friend wasn't beside her.
“Come on, there's Sweetie Belle's place... not much farther.” As Silver Spoon spoke, Diamond Tiara looked up, and sure enough, Carousel Boutique was in sight. “She has to know where her loser friend is... then you can get your project over with.”
At that, Diamond Tiara shoved the camera into her own purse and once again picked up her pace.
“Ugh... looks like the miniature hick might be here, too.” Diamond Tiara nodded towards the pick up truck parked out front, and Silver Spoon snickered at the comment.
“I know, right? Just looking at her makes me feel grimy.”
Silver Spoon was the first to reach the door, and knocked once Diamond Tiara was beside her. A few moments passed, no one answered, and no noise came from inside. Diamond Tiara knocked this time, hard, and the two waited again. Silver Spoon walked over to the window to look inside.
“The lights are on...”
“This is stupid!” Diamond Tiara was losing her patience, so rather than wait around, she swung the door open herself. “Well, they have to be in here, or else the door wouldn't be unlocked. Come on.”
Once inside, it was clear the first floor of the boutique was empty. Silver Spoon glanced around, puzzled, while Diamond Tiara looked fairly annoyed.
“What kind of idiot leaves their shop unlocked and leaves?” In a huff, Diamond Tiara started towards the staircase.
Silver Spoon didn't follow, looking uncomfortable at being in someone else's home while they weren't. “If they're gone, shouldn't we just go?”
“I'm just going to check up here... be right back.”
Silver Spoon watched her friend disappear up the staircase, and then waited quietly in the middle of the boutique. A few minutes passed, and she started nervously tapping her foot, wondering why Tia was taking so long. If she had managed to find Sweetie Belle, wouldn't she have finished asking about Scootaloo by now? Or, at least, called down the stairs to say she had found someone?
A few more minutes went by, and just as Silver Spoon was getting ready to head up the stairs herself, Diamond Tiara came charging down them.
“What-”
Diamond Tiara grabbed Silver Spoon's wrist as she ran by, and practically dragged her out of the boutique.
“What's going on?” Tia had released her friend, and quickly shut the door behind them. Silver Spoon noticed she was holding Featherweight's camera, and gave her a confused, worried look.
Diamond Tiara quickly tucked the camera into her purse, and glanced around to see if anyone nearby was watching. “Let's get out of here first... we were never here, all right?”
“What...? You're freaking me out a little.”
“I'll explain at home...” Diamond Tiara started away from Carousel Boutique, and Silver Spoon quickly regained her spot walking beside her. “For now, let's just say... all of Gabby Gums' stories combined never came close to the dirt I just got.”