Her Shimmering Sunsetby SoufriereChaptersChapter One: RarityChapter Two: SunsetChapter Three: TogetherChapter One: RarityThe warm air of the moonless summer night was filled with the incessant trills of cicadas, barely muffled by the windows of Rarity’s bedroom. Not that she would have cared anyway as she paced a tight circle around the middle of her room, her face contorted into a perpetual scowl with furrowed brows. She muttered, barely audible or coherent even to herself. At some point, her younger sister Sweetie Belle had entered the room and sat on the bed, face illuminated by the glow of her phone which she tapped rapidly when she was not observing Rarity, her two-tone pink-&-lavender hair (almost as long as her big sister’s violet coif) just barely touching the overstuffed comforter as it brushed against the back of her white child-sized nightie, which she was obviously outgrowing in nearly all directions. “Big sis, you’re going to wear a hole in the floor if you keep that up,” Sweetie said, her eyebrow raised. “You’re acting like someone who didn’t have a massive ‘Sweet Eighteen’ party thrown for her two days ago.” This was enough to knock Rarity out of whatever dimension her brain was in and jolt her back to reality, though not enough to interrupt her miniature revolution. “Sweetie, dear. How long have you been here?” Rarity asked with a tinge of surprise. Sweetie Belle shrugged. “Five minutes? An hour? I haven’t looked at the clock, not even on my phone. I was more interested in seeing if you would get dizzy and fall over.” She sighed in defeat. “Now I owe Scootaloo five Bux.” Rarity shot an irritated glance over to her sister. “I’ll take that,” she snipped as, in one fluid motion, she swiped Sweetie Belle’s smartphone out of her hands and immediately returned to pacing. Sweetie looked at her empty hand for a split second before yelping, “Hey! Give it back!” “No,” Rarity replied curtly. “I shall not accept you or your friends making wagers upon my misery.” Sweetie cocked her head. “Misery? What, uh, level of misery are we talking about here? Because if this is like the time you accidentally bought an outfit with mismatched colours, I’m going back to bed.” Rarity sighed. “‘Tis the misery of a tortured heart, sweet sister.” Sweetie blinked. “You’re talking about Sunset Shimmer, right?” At that, Rarity stopped in her tracks and gasped, her eyes going wide. “How could you possibly know that?!” “Everyone knows. Well, everyone except Pinkie Pie,” said Sweetie, rolling her eyes. “You’ve been pretty bad at hiding it. Were you even trying?” Rarity pursed her lips into a pout. “And how long have you known?” Scratching her chin in thought, Sweetie replied, “I thought it first when you stole Sunset’s scooter…” “Sassy,” Rarity interrupted. “…and then took it back to her in the middle of the night. You really thought I’d be able to sleep through the motor revving and your cussing at it? At least mom and dad are heavy sleepe— Hang on. Sunset Shimmer named her scooter?” Rarity shrugged. “She names many inanimate objects she owns. I think it’s cute.” Sweetie continued, “But what really got me was when you took those model photos that look like the ones from dad’s magazines he pretends he doesn’t have, in nothing but your underwear and one of my shirts.” At that, Rarity gasped and then glared. “How did you even know about those?” “Hey, you’ve read my diary,” retorted Sweetie, “It’s only fair I snoop in your bag every once in awhile. Now we’re even.” Deflated, Rarity slowly moped over to her bed and flopped into it. Sweetie took her phone back the second she was able but set it aside as Rarity unconsciously leaned onto her. Sweetie had to brace herself to keep from being pushed over. Even with her big sister’s dead-weight on her, she bore a look of concern as she continued to pry. “Why? Why her?” Sweetie asked. “I don’t know,” was all Rarity could say in reply. “You remember what she did to you. I sure can’t forget.” Sweetie Belle walked into her big sister’s room, placing her backpack full of elementary school textbooks by the door. Rarity lay on the bed face down, bawling into her pillow, her shoulder-length hair fanning out in all directions. “Big sis, what’s wrong?” Sweetie asked, her high-pitched voice almost masking her obvious worry. “I’ve never seen you like this before.” Rarity slowly turned her head. “It’s over. It’s all over,” she cried bluntly. “What is?” asked Sweetie. “I…” Rarity sniffed, “I’ve lost all my friends. The disaster that was Spring Fling won’t leave me be! The flyers, my dress… Everyone who doesn’t laugh at me ignores me. All I wanted was… just… I cannot take it anymore.” “Big sis…” “I… want to die.” Not knowing what else to do, Sweetie Belle climbed into bed and wrapped her small skinny arm around her older sister, which only made Rarity cry harder. “Why, Sunset?” Rarity eventually choked out, her own voice emitting a remnant youthful squeak. “What did I ever do to you?” “Who’s Sunset?” asked Sweetie delicately. “For months,” Sweetie Belle recalled, “For months, you were a complete wreck. Mom and dad took you to therapy, put you on those pills that made you…” “I thought we agreed never to speak of that again,” Rarity growled. “Sorry,” Sweetie said with a nod. “Anyway, how could you possibly fall in love with the girl who literally ruined at least a year of your life?” Her pale green eyes bore deep into Rarity’s soul, her expression a whirlwind of emotions – anger, shock, worry, admiration, disgust. Rarity provided in return only guilty certainty. “Because… I saw her hit rock bottom,” Rarity finally replied. “She reminded me of myself freshman year, and… no one should go through that, not even Sunset, regardless of how much she may ‘deserve’ it. I had already decided to attempt to be her friend. As it turns out, once knocked off her pedestal, Sunset is a true sweetheart, and I was glad to help her rejoin the world.” Sweetie Belle nodded slowly, her expression grim. “Okay, so… do you like her just because she needs you? That’s kind of sick.” “No!” Rarity near-screamed. “I love her because we understand each other, she’s kind, pleasant to be with, and…” she blushed, “her body is amazing.” At that, Sweetie stared at her sister, her eyes bulging so wide one might expect them to pop out of her skull. Her jaw hung slightly agape. After a moment during which her brain essentially rebooted, Sweetie spoke again. “You know mom and dad will never be okay with this.” “I know.” “I can’t say I’m okay with it either, but… I know Sunset’s trying to be nicer and make up for years of being so nasty. I guess I owe it to her to not stand in your way,” Sweetie concluded. Rarity slumped her head. “There’s… one more problem.” “What’s that?” “I don’t know if Sunset likes me back. She… seems to believe my crush is on some random boy.” “What?!” Sweetie asked, her voice squeaking again. “You’re joking! How can a girl who won so many academic trophies for CHS be so dumb?” Rarity shrugged. “She told me she feels unworthy of being loved by anyone. Flash, her ex-boyfriend—” At that, Sweetie interrupted again. “Does she even like girls?” “Well, I certainly didn’t think I swung that way until Sunset came along. And it’s only her. Otherwise I’m still attracted to boys. You think I don’t still notice Flash’s looks or Bulk’s muscles?” Rarity asked. “But Sunset is different. Better.” “You know,” Sweetie said slowly, “When you read my diary and we talked about my crush on Button Mash, you told me it was nothing but puppy love, a ‘youthful dalliance’, I think you said. And… you were right. He’s just a kid. How is what you’re feeling now any different?” “Well, for one, we’re older. I’m not quite sure how old Sunset is, exactly, but we’re certainly not junior high schoolers,” said Rarity. “Uh-huh,” Sweetie replied, unconvinced. Rarity shut her eyes tight, planting her fist against her forehead. One could almost see the gears in her head attempting to turn. “Love…” she finally said, “is more than just thinking someone is attractive. It’s a jumbled mess, really. You feel comfortable when your other half is around; you worry when they’re gone. Communication barriers break down. You understand them, warts and all. They understand you. Everything is lain bare, yet you persist in the face of that. That’s what I learned, Sweetie. Love is not fireworks; those fade all too quickly. It’s mundane. Simple talk over making a pot of tea. Arguing over who’s going to pay the bill at the Burrito Barn. Laughing together at terrible daytime TV. Sitting on the roof, staring at the setting sun and saying nothing at all. Feelings of comfort, safety. Knowing that you will be there for each other. The warmth of a metaphorical blanket enveloping you even when the warmth of the body is absent. That is how I feel with Sunset having re-entered my life. My only hope is that she feels the same way.” “And if Sunset really is that oblivious, how do you expect to get your feelings across to her?” Sweetie asked. Rarity sighed. “Obviously the indirect approach has not worked, to put it mildly. Flash told me I would have to hit her over the head seventeen times with a blunt object.” “Do it,” Sweetie Belle said flatly. “Where oh where did my adorable baby sister go?” Rarity opined as she shook her head. Sweetie Belle put her arm around Rarity’s shoulder. “I’m not a baby anymore, no matter how much everyone may want me to be. Like it or not, I get to grow up too. I’m glad, because now I don’t feel helpless whenever you’re in a mood like this.” Several minutes of silence followed before Rarity finally spoke. “Thank you, Sweetie. You really have grown up, faster than I expected.” Sweetie shrugged. “I had to, to be here for you, and my friends. Now, when are you going to confess to Sunset? I’ll provide the blunt object…” Chapter Two: SunsetTwilight? Oh, it’s you. Hello, Sunset. What’s with the attitude? I could ask the same of you. What was with that Runic message to Cadance and Princess Celestia? What were you trying to hide from me? That’s not how friends act. Sorry. I had to say something to Caddy and to Her without any middlemen. Personal, but nothing personal, really. Also I didn’t want to be lectured at. I don’t lecture! Yes, you do. And, honestly, I’m just as guilty if I don’t hold myself back. We’re more alike than unalike, which makes sense considering She raised both of us. Fine. I’m not so heartless that I won’t let something like that slide. I forgive you. So, how can I help? I know you need something; you never write anymore otherwise. I miss talking to you. Your messages interrupt the insanity here. Also, what’s up with your tiny writing? The tiny writing is because I want to save parchment; this diary is over two-thirds filled and who knows when or if I’d be able to replace it. As to the rest, I’ve been busy maintaining my façade. Also worrying. So… you may be the worst pony to talk to about this but I don’t know who else to turn to. Thanks for the vote of confidence. I need relationship advice. …You’re right. I am the worst pony you could talk to. You must be desperate. I kind of am. I’ll cut right to the chase: I think Rarity is in love with me. …Seriously? I mean, it’s not really surprising since the Rarity here shtups Applejack on the side when they’re both in between boyfriends. They think we don’t notice, but we do… except Pinkie Pie, which is fine because they don’t want a public party. P.P. doesn’t understand the idea of a casual fling. And you do? I’ve read about them in books! I guess I sort of maybe had one with Flash after he dumped you. Or you dumped him, I guess. You didn’t. You really didn’t. Not like the big doof didn’t try though. That fail is on you, Twilight. In fact, you need to get your act together as much as I do or he’s going to move on and find a permanent girlfriend who won’t throw a jackhammer at him. (jackhammer?) I know, I know, but I just have all these Princess of Friendship duties here! There just isn’t time for me to go through that mirror on a whim anymore. Sometimes… I wish I could just get rid of these wings, earn back a little freedom. I wish you could too. Interpret that however you want. Heavy is the head that wears the crown. If She didn’t tell you that, She really should have. But we’re talking about you. You and Rarity. Do you like her? She’s my best friend. I’d be lost without her. Do you like her?? I guess. To be honest, I’m not sure what direction I swing, if any. I certainly felt something when she left those sexy photos for me to look at. She’s a gorgeous girl. A good kid who deserves better than a washed up liar like me. What do you mean by that? I haven’t told her the truth about, well, a lot of things. Lying by omission. I’ve said almost nothing about my past, including my real age. If I come clean, will she leave me? Potential lover aside, I’m terrified of losing my closest friend. You know, Cadance told me something when I was pining over your ex. Good thing I never really cared about the blue-haired oaf. Much. What did Caddy say? To paraphrase: If she truly loves you, she’ll let all that slide. I certainly hope so. …There’s one more thing. What is it? I’m strongly considering returning to Equestria. Pretty bad timing, don’t you think? Of course it is; I’m not dumb. Going back has been on my mind for awhile now, long before this stuff with Rarity happened. I think… I need to see Her and accept what’s due me. That’s really mature of you. Or stupid. I expect the moment I return I’ll be arrested and put on trial for, well, lots of things. The punishment for most of them is banishment plus summary incarceration. I’d be happy to testify before a tribunal in your defense! Not even the Chancellor coul— Stop. You’re a princess. So is Caddy. Equestria is a land of Laws nowadays. I doubt either of you could. So, I’m screwed. At least in my current prison, I have some semblance of freedom, along with people who care about me. Someone who loves me, whether I deserve it or not. Sure as hell never got that in Equestria. I don’t think you’re right on that last point, but… Regardless, I don’t know what to do about this Rarity situation. Neither do I, but I’ll try my best. This is a bit beyond friendship, so… I appreciate your willingness to help, really, even if you don’t know what you’re doing. You flatter me, Sunset. ‘Welcome. Anyway, if your Rarity is anything like ours, she’ll eventually get frustrated and take matters into her own hoov— hands. She won’t murder me in my sleep, will she? I had a dream about that. What?! No! Maybe you need to see a therapist. I know one in Canterlot. His name is Doctor Vo— Yeah, yeah, I know I do. But not now. First things first. Right. So, she’s probably going to see you and you need to be prepared. How do I do that? …I have no idea. Thank you for that valuable insight. Truly you are a magnificent princess. Hey, I didn’t ask for this either! But it’s my duty now and I will fulfill it. Y’know, it’s funny. Ten years ago, I wanted to be a Princess so badly, I broke every law in the land to try and force it to happen. After some literal tough love and over half a year of serious thought… I couldn’t care less anymore. You can have your boring responsibilities and tedious travels. As I said. Rarity is the type who will eventually say how she feels. I can’t tell you how to prepare for that. I’m not you. Just… follow your instincts. Okay, let me rephrase that. Follow your better instincts. Just so you know, I’m rolling my eyes right now. Maybe I should have asked Caddy instead. She is the Princess of Love after all. She would spend all her time peppering you with questions about the last decade of your life and forget to help because she’d be too excited from communicating with you. Point taken. Anyway, I’m sorry I can’t be more of a help. Good luck, Sunset. I hope this all works out, and that your dreams tonight are pleasant for once. Thanks. You too, Twilight. Chapter Three: Together Sunset, I wish to see you on a matter of vital importance. Is Thursday after work okay? If so, please let me know. I look forward to your reply. —R “She didn’t need to send a formal letter,” Sunset Shimmer said to her smiley-face pillow Happy as she reread the note for the eightieth time in six days. “What am I going to do?” As midday shifted to the long summer afternoon, Sunset paced a small circle in her tiny sparse living room, muttering incomprehensible gibberish to herself, hoping a downstairs neighbour wouldn’t complain about the noise, when her hamster wheel of thought was interrupted by a knock on her door. After steadying herself on her stolen cable spool coffee table for a moment, she stepped tentatively to undo the latches and deadbolts. Opposite the threshold stood Rarity, bedecked in a blue sun-dress and woven rubber-sole sandals, her hair tied in a wavy ponytail, face protected by a wide-brimmed hat and almost absurdly large sunglasses. She clasped something behind her back. At Sunset’s entreaty, Rarity entered, removing her hat to hang it on the coat-rack to her right. Her sunglasses were on a string, so she slipped them off and draped them around hat. Sunset could not help but notice Rarity’s dress was fairly low cut, showing a nonzero amount of cleavage and much leg. She was somewhat less observant of the fact that her friend’s alabaster skin was tinged pink on her face. Blushing. “Sorry,” Sunset said. “I decided to take your advice and start actually locking my door.” Rarity nodded slowly. “Th-that’s okay. I’m… glad you do. After all, I’d hate for anything to happen to you.” “I can take care of myself… I think… but I appreciate the concern, really,” replied Sunset with a shrug and a smile. “Care to, uh, take a seat on Ol’ Charlie? Kick up your feet?” she asked, gesturing to the navy blue sofa. Rarity lowered her head. “In a moment. There’s… something else first.” “Does it have to do with whatever it is you’re hiding behind your back?” asked Sunset. “You could say that,” replied Rarity quietly with a nod. Sunset shrugged one shoulder. “Well, let’s have it.” Rarity sighed quietly and produced what appeared to be a box of chocolates. It was about a foot long, six inches wide, and just over an inch thick, made out of extremely dense material and covered in a textured red paper. It was also wrapped with a gold-coloured ribbon. “It looks kind of like my hair, in a way,” Sunset observed. “…in a way…” Rarity agreed quietly. Then, without any warning whatsoever, she lifted the box up with both hands as high as she could and brought it down swiftly to bear upon Sunset’s cranium with an audible ‘bonk!’. “Ow!” Sunset vocalized involuntarily. “I LOVE YOU!!” Rarity near-screamed as she raised the box again. Sunset had no time to react as Rarity repeated the motion, each time punctuated with the same phrase. “I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!!” After that, Rarity allowed her arms to go noodle-limp, dropping the now-dented box onto the carpet. Sunset, meanwhile, had fallen to a sitting position on the floor and needed a few minutes for her world to stop spinning and her brain to re-calibrate. Once it had, she carefully got back on her feet to approach her unexpectedly violent but sobbing friend, placing her hands on Rarity’s shoulders, partly to stay upright. “That was… interesting,” said Sunset, her voice still a tad loopy. Rarity sniffled. “Shall we sit down now? Seems like there’s a lot we need to talk about,” Sunset said with a smile as she staggered toward her usual sitting spot. Rarity bowed her head and sat on ‘her’ side of the sofa, closest to the door, keeping her feet on the floor and hands in her lap. Sunset soon plopped down beside her, putting her feet up on the stolen cable spool ‘table’. “Gauche, isn’t it?” Sunset asked with a smirk. Rarity tilted her head. “I… what?” “Using a table as a hassock.” Sunset noted Rarity’s look of confusion (and continued blushing). “That’s, uh, another word for ‘ottoman’. Stalliongrad, being as removed from civilization as it is, occasionally used different terms for some things.” “I… see.” Sunset leaned back as best she could, trying to relax. As she lifted her arms, she noticed through her peripheral vision that Rarity’s eyes appeared to be focused on her breasts, bulging like twin pluton domes underneath her teal tank-top. She sighed, not out of irritation or frustration, but amusement. “So,” Sunset declared, “I was going to ask what could possibly have been so important that you’d send me a formal letter, but… I think I have a pretty good idea now.” The hue on Rarity’s face quickly came to resemble a turnip. Sunset gave a disarming smile as she rubbed the knot on her head. “Who gave you the idea? Flash?” Rarity nodded with a squeak. Shaking her head, stifling a chuckle, Sunset said, “Well, I can’t think of any better way to get a point across. I guess that pea-brain can be useful when he wants to be.” Rarity squeaked again, trying to shrink into herself on the sofa. Sunset changed her tone to one of seriousness as she turned to Rarity. “You know I think of you as my closest friend, right?” Rarity nodded. “Mm-hmm,” she vocalized quietly. “And, well, I’m willing to guess you take that as seriously as I do, right?” “…yes…” Rarity replied, her voice starting to crack. Sunset took in a breath and exhaled slowly. “I’m sure you know that what you just did was a tremendous risk. How might I react?” Rarity began to tremble. Sunset could tell her friend was doing everything in her power to not cry. “But it’s okay,” Sunset assured her. “I know I’m not the brightest bulb in the chandelier, and sometimes it takes direct action to get me to see my errors, be it a magic rainbow to the face or a box of chocolates (I assume) to the head.” She rubbed Rarity’s shoulders, feeling their tenseness ease slightly from the kind touch. “Communication is the foundation of a g—” Her words were interrupted as Rarity thrust herself across the sofa, wrapped her arms around Sunset, and locked lips with her, eyes shut, refusing to let go. Sunset, after the initial shock, allowed herself to simply feel the warmth of her best friend’s kiss, basking in her tight embrace. At once, their entire several months relationship flashed before her eyes – the encounter at the boutique, their meeting in Connemara Square, the talk out of the figurative dark pit of despair, the time they watched the sun set on the roof, help in coaxing her back to the land of the living, the dinner date at the burrito barn, and of course their mutual conversation with that blue-haired guy Sunset had once claimed for herself but now could not possibly care less. All melted away as Sunset felt a sort of nascent electricity coursing through her system, temporarily overwhelming the logic functions of her brain. The softness of Rarity’s lips, the subtle scent of lavender on her hair, the smoothness of her alabaster skin, perhaps a taste of grape from lip gloss, all served to overwhelm the higher functions of Sunset’s brain. Operating on instinct, she shifted herself forward, no longer passive, and kissed back, wrapping her arms around her best friend’s slender figure, causing Rarity to move in further, pushing Sunset nearly onto her back on the couch. Sunset, being more experienced in such things, made a mental note that, regardless of the subtle movements of mouth muscles and Rarity’s soft sensuous moaning, Rarity was clearly a near-novice at the art of the kiss and was operating chiefly on instinct. Their breaths intertwined within the joined space. When Rarity tried to insert her tongue, Sunset subtly pulled back, which was enough to give Rarity the hint to not try, but a tighter hug from Sunset signalled to her to keep going on everything else. After what felt like an eternity, yet not nearly long enough, they broke the embrace. A soft ‘smack’ sounded as their lips disentangled. Both found themselves breathing heavily for several seconds as their lungs tried to refill all that lost oxygen. Sunset’s blinked a few times. “Wow,” was all she could whisper. Meanwhile, Rarity’s eyelids were heavy, emphasizing the blue eyeshadow she habitually wore. It took her nearly a minute to speak, but eventually she said softly what she had already yelled at Sunset seventeen times. However, the single time at lower volume had infinitely more impact. “I love you.” Sunset smiled and nodded slowly. “I know.” “I…” “I’m only sorry I was too dense to notice earlier,” Sunset said. “When you’ve been through everything I have, it’s only natural to question everything and everyone.” Rarity leaned into Sunset, her head resting on Sunset’s ample bosom. “Sunset, my darling. You need not question me. I’ve been in love with you for months.” “And it’s my fault for not seeing it,” replied Sunset. “There’s just… one problem,” Rarity said, her lips shifting into pout-mode. “And that is?” Rarity drew in a tentative breath. “Do you feel the same way about me?” Sunset sighed as she dipped her head. She could hear Rarity’s breathing become more frantic and panicked. “…Yes,” she finally said, causing Rarity to exhale in relief. “But…” “But…what?” asked Rarity, her voice betraying a measure of worry. Sunset steeled her guts to speak. “There’s a lot you don’t know about me. Things I’ve been hiding from everyone. I… really do care for you, more than anyone else in the multiverse, and I can’t imagine my life without you. To be honest, I’m terrified or your reaction once I tell you about the real Sunset Shimmer, that you’ll… reject me, never want to see me again. And I wouldn’t blame you one bit.” Rarity cocked her head in confusion. “You mean the things Flash has been alluding to?” Sunset nodded. She reached out to stroke Rarity’s hair but held herself back. “He already knows just about everything, and I’m pretty sure he’s dropped as many hints as he could without getting in trouble.” “He spoke in circles and riddles,” Rarity said as she rubbed her chin. Sunset sighed. “Are you sure you want to know the truth?” she asked. “My darling, I don’t… think I could go on without knowing. Best friends or lovers shouldn’t hide things from each other. Right?” “Okay,” Sunset replied with resignation. “Don’t say no one warned you. If, after I’ve explained myself, you never want to see me again, I’ll understand.” “Please. Explain, my dear.” Sunset cleared her throat. “Fine. I’m not a high school student; I graduated years ago. I turn twenty-six next week. I carry on the charade of being a student at CHS so that I can stay near that horse statue portal without arousing suspicion. Faculty know this; we have a quid pro quo relationship wherein I take the standardized tests to raise the school’s average score and net them more funding. I also tutored their idiots for a discounted price, though my experience with Trixie made me back off on that part of the deal. In exchange, they turn a blind eye to and cover for almost everything I do, including keeping the police and government off my back.” Rarity stared with a blank expression, silent as Sunset continued. “Nearly five years ago, they turned me down for a teaching position, which forced me into this situation. Unfortunately, I used my experience and powers of observation for… less than honourable means. I relished my new role as alpha-girl too much and, well, ruined lives for no good reason. Especially yours. Because I was jealous. Remember, I told you months ago that, as I was then, I wouldn’t have cared if you’d died,” Sunset concluded with clear venom in her voice. Rarity blinked slowly, her face still registering no emotion. “And now you know,” Sunset spat. “So, can you still possibly say you love me?” Rarity sniffed as her eyes involuntarily welled up with tears. “Yes. Because… I’ve come to know the real you. Strip away that veneer of anger and jealousy, and you’re so kind and considerate, always worried about others before yourself. Only a true friend would call in favours to keep me from being in trouble with our school’s administration or the Truant Officers. You may not think much of those gestures, but it’s because of that that I love you so much.” Sunset’s eyebrows screwed up in confusion. “Did you not hear the ‘I’m eight years older than you’ part?” “I did,” Rarity said. “And I don’t care. Age is only a number, after all.” Sunset involuntarily shrank back. “Uh… I think the cops might believe otherwise. You know they kinda hate me.” Rarity crawled onto Sunset and began running her index finger across Sunset’s left breast, causing her nipple to involuntarily harden. “I’m legal now, you know. As of last week.” “Yes, we were all at that party,” Sunset agreed. “But… your parents…” “…can, as you might say, spin on it,” Rarity finished the sentence. “I don’t care about anything in this world, as long as I can have you.” She moved to embrace Sunset again, this time allowing her hands to wander towards Sunset’s glutes, well-toned from years of daily mile-long constitutionals. Sunset felt the warmth growing in her loins. Everything in the higher functioning parts of her brain screamed at her to hold back, but that pesky amygdala insisted she go for it. So she did, shifting her weight so that she was on top of her best friend. They locked lips again. Eventually, Rarity’s hands slipped under Sunset’s tank-top and began to massage her sizable breasts. Sunset, for her part, stroked Rarity’s long purple hair, occasionally allowing a brief touch of her butt, but the sensation of having someone other than herself stimulate one of her erogenous zones nearly caused her to give over to lust. When, as their lips were still locked, Rarity made a move for Sunset’s crotch, Sunset stopped her, snapping both of them out of their lust stupor. “What’s wrong, my darling?” Rarity asked. Sunset gave a wan, guilty smile. “This isn’t me. It isn’t you either. I know you’ve been holding back for a long time, but… I don’t want to go so far right out of the gate.” “But…” Rarity pouted, clearly hurt. Sunset shook her head. “I said I love you, and I mean it. But, we just confessed. I’d rather our relationship burn like a Yule Log than a firework. We still have time.” “Do we?” Rarity asked with suspicion. “You said before the school year ended that you wanted to return to your homeworld.” “Well, you’re reason enough for me to hang around for awhile longer,” replied Sunset with a smirk. Rarity’s blush deepened beyond the point any sane individual would expect. “So,” Sunset said as she kicked her feet back up on the table and reached for her television’s remote control, “Let’s see where this new life takes us, shall we?” A beaming smile spread across Rarity’s face. “Yes!” She draped herself across Sunset, laying in her lap as Sunset turned on the television. The signal from the aerial produced footage of some talk show wherein a man in a cheap suit talked to a heavy-set Knocktown woman about her ‘baby-daddy’ or something. “This show is terrible,” Sunset said, utterly content. “I was hoping the snarky lady judge would be on. Not yet.” “Shall we wait?” Rarity asked with a yawn, not moving her head from Sunset’s lap. Sunset looked down at her best friend and/or new lover. “Of course.” As the television blathered on, they did not move, nor had any desire to. Sunset let out a contented sigh as Rarity began to snore softly. Today was a wonderful day. With luck, little by little, she felt her life could only improve. “After all,” Sunset whispered to herself, “Feeling loved and wanted is the greatest feeling in the world. Thank you, you amazing silly girl, for accepting me for me.” Author's Note There we go. It's taken over three years real-time, but the journey is now complete. Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed the ride!
Chapter One: RarityThe warm air of the moonless summer night was filled with the incessant trills of cicadas, barely muffled by the windows of Rarity’s bedroom. Not that she would have cared anyway as she paced a tight circle around the middle of her room, her face contorted into a perpetual scowl with furrowed brows. She muttered, barely audible or coherent even to herself. At some point, her younger sister Sweetie Belle had entered the room and sat on the bed, face illuminated by the glow of her phone which she tapped rapidly when she was not observing Rarity, her two-tone pink-&-lavender hair (almost as long as her big sister’s violet coif) just barely touching the overstuffed comforter as it brushed against the back of her white child-sized nightie, which she was obviously outgrowing in nearly all directions. “Big sis, you’re going to wear a hole in the floor if you keep that up,” Sweetie said, her eyebrow raised. “You’re acting like someone who didn’t have a massive ‘Sweet Eighteen’ party thrown for her two days ago.” This was enough to knock Rarity out of whatever dimension her brain was in and jolt her back to reality, though not enough to interrupt her miniature revolution. “Sweetie, dear. How long have you been here?” Rarity asked with a tinge of surprise. Sweetie Belle shrugged. “Five minutes? An hour? I haven’t looked at the clock, not even on my phone. I was more interested in seeing if you would get dizzy and fall over.” She sighed in defeat. “Now I owe Scootaloo five Bux.” Rarity shot an irritated glance over to her sister. “I’ll take that,” she snipped as, in one fluid motion, she swiped Sweetie Belle’s smartphone out of her hands and immediately returned to pacing. Sweetie looked at her empty hand for a split second before yelping, “Hey! Give it back!” “No,” Rarity replied curtly. “I shall not accept you or your friends making wagers upon my misery.” Sweetie cocked her head. “Misery? What, uh, level of misery are we talking about here? Because if this is like the time you accidentally bought an outfit with mismatched colours, I’m going back to bed.” Rarity sighed. “‘Tis the misery of a tortured heart, sweet sister.” Sweetie blinked. “You’re talking about Sunset Shimmer, right?” At that, Rarity stopped in her tracks and gasped, her eyes going wide. “How could you possibly know that?!” “Everyone knows. Well, everyone except Pinkie Pie,” said Sweetie, rolling her eyes. “You’ve been pretty bad at hiding it. Were you even trying?” Rarity pursed her lips into a pout. “And how long have you known?” Scratching her chin in thought, Sweetie replied, “I thought it first when you stole Sunset’s scooter…” “Sassy,” Rarity interrupted. “…and then took it back to her in the middle of the night. You really thought I’d be able to sleep through the motor revving and your cussing at it? At least mom and dad are heavy sleepe— Hang on. Sunset Shimmer named her scooter?” Rarity shrugged. “She names many inanimate objects she owns. I think it’s cute.” Sweetie continued, “But what really got me was when you took those model photos that look like the ones from dad’s magazines he pretends he doesn’t have, in nothing but your underwear and one of my shirts.” At that, Rarity gasped and then glared. “How did you even know about those?” “Hey, you’ve read my diary,” retorted Sweetie, “It’s only fair I snoop in your bag every once in awhile. Now we’re even.” Deflated, Rarity slowly moped over to her bed and flopped into it. Sweetie took her phone back the second she was able but set it aside as Rarity unconsciously leaned onto her. Sweetie had to brace herself to keep from being pushed over. Even with her big sister’s dead-weight on her, she bore a look of concern as she continued to pry. “Why? Why her?” Sweetie asked. “I don’t know,” was all Rarity could say in reply. “You remember what she did to you. I sure can’t forget.” Sweetie Belle walked into her big sister’s room, placing her backpack full of elementary school textbooks by the door. Rarity lay on the bed face down, bawling into her pillow, her shoulder-length hair fanning out in all directions. “Big sis, what’s wrong?” Sweetie asked, her high-pitched voice almost masking her obvious worry. “I’ve never seen you like this before.” Rarity slowly turned her head. “It’s over. It’s all over,” she cried bluntly. “What is?” asked Sweetie. “I…” Rarity sniffed, “I’ve lost all my friends. The disaster that was Spring Fling won’t leave me be! The flyers, my dress… Everyone who doesn’t laugh at me ignores me. All I wanted was… just… I cannot take it anymore.” “Big sis…” “I… want to die.” Not knowing what else to do, Sweetie Belle climbed into bed and wrapped her small skinny arm around her older sister, which only made Rarity cry harder. “Why, Sunset?” Rarity eventually choked out, her own voice emitting a remnant youthful squeak. “What did I ever do to you?” “Who’s Sunset?” asked Sweetie delicately. “For months,” Sweetie Belle recalled, “For months, you were a complete wreck. Mom and dad took you to therapy, put you on those pills that made you…” “I thought we agreed never to speak of that again,” Rarity growled. “Sorry,” Sweetie said with a nod. “Anyway, how could you possibly fall in love with the girl who literally ruined at least a year of your life?” Her pale green eyes bore deep into Rarity’s soul, her expression a whirlwind of emotions – anger, shock, worry, admiration, disgust. Rarity provided in return only guilty certainty. “Because… I saw her hit rock bottom,” Rarity finally replied. “She reminded me of myself freshman year, and… no one should go through that, not even Sunset, regardless of how much she may ‘deserve’ it. I had already decided to attempt to be her friend. As it turns out, once knocked off her pedestal, Sunset is a true sweetheart, and I was glad to help her rejoin the world.” Sweetie Belle nodded slowly, her expression grim. “Okay, so… do you like her just because she needs you? That’s kind of sick.” “No!” Rarity near-screamed. “I love her because we understand each other, she’s kind, pleasant to be with, and…” she blushed, “her body is amazing.” At that, Sweetie stared at her sister, her eyes bulging so wide one might expect them to pop out of her skull. Her jaw hung slightly agape. After a moment during which her brain essentially rebooted, Sweetie spoke again. “You know mom and dad will never be okay with this.” “I know.” “I can’t say I’m okay with it either, but… I know Sunset’s trying to be nicer and make up for years of being so nasty. I guess I owe it to her to not stand in your way,” Sweetie concluded. Rarity slumped her head. “There’s… one more problem.” “What’s that?” “I don’t know if Sunset likes me back. She… seems to believe my crush is on some random boy.” “What?!” Sweetie asked, her voice squeaking again. “You’re joking! How can a girl who won so many academic trophies for CHS be so dumb?” Rarity shrugged. “She told me she feels unworthy of being loved by anyone. Flash, her ex-boyfriend—” At that, Sweetie interrupted again. “Does she even like girls?” “Well, I certainly didn’t think I swung that way until Sunset came along. And it’s only her. Otherwise I’m still attracted to boys. You think I don’t still notice Flash’s looks or Bulk’s muscles?” Rarity asked. “But Sunset is different. Better.” “You know,” Sweetie said slowly, “When you read my diary and we talked about my crush on Button Mash, you told me it was nothing but puppy love, a ‘youthful dalliance’, I think you said. And… you were right. He’s just a kid. How is what you’re feeling now any different?” “Well, for one, we’re older. I’m not quite sure how old Sunset is, exactly, but we’re certainly not junior high schoolers,” said Rarity. “Uh-huh,” Sweetie replied, unconvinced. Rarity shut her eyes tight, planting her fist against her forehead. One could almost see the gears in her head attempting to turn. “Love…” she finally said, “is more than just thinking someone is attractive. It’s a jumbled mess, really. You feel comfortable when your other half is around; you worry when they’re gone. Communication barriers break down. You understand them, warts and all. They understand you. Everything is lain bare, yet you persist in the face of that. That’s what I learned, Sweetie. Love is not fireworks; those fade all too quickly. It’s mundane. Simple talk over making a pot of tea. Arguing over who’s going to pay the bill at the Burrito Barn. Laughing together at terrible daytime TV. Sitting on the roof, staring at the setting sun and saying nothing at all. Feelings of comfort, safety. Knowing that you will be there for each other. The warmth of a metaphorical blanket enveloping you even when the warmth of the body is absent. That is how I feel with Sunset having re-entered my life. My only hope is that she feels the same way.” “And if Sunset really is that oblivious, how do you expect to get your feelings across to her?” Sweetie asked. Rarity sighed. “Obviously the indirect approach has not worked, to put it mildly. Flash told me I would have to hit her over the head seventeen times with a blunt object.” “Do it,” Sweetie Belle said flatly. “Where oh where did my adorable baby sister go?” Rarity opined as she shook her head. Sweetie Belle put her arm around Rarity’s shoulder. “I’m not a baby anymore, no matter how much everyone may want me to be. Like it or not, I get to grow up too. I’m glad, because now I don’t feel helpless whenever you’re in a mood like this.” Several minutes of silence followed before Rarity finally spoke. “Thank you, Sweetie. You really have grown up, faster than I expected.” Sweetie shrugged. “I had to, to be here for you, and my friends. Now, when are you going to confess to Sunset? I’ll provide the blunt object…”
Chapter Two: SunsetTwilight? Oh, it’s you. Hello, Sunset. What’s with the attitude? I could ask the same of you. What was with that Runic message to Cadance and Princess Celestia? What were you trying to hide from me? That’s not how friends act. Sorry. I had to say something to Caddy and to Her without any middlemen. Personal, but nothing personal, really. Also I didn’t want to be lectured at. I don’t lecture! Yes, you do. And, honestly, I’m just as guilty if I don’t hold myself back. We’re more alike than unalike, which makes sense considering She raised both of us. Fine. I’m not so heartless that I won’t let something like that slide. I forgive you. So, how can I help? I know you need something; you never write anymore otherwise. I miss talking to you. Your messages interrupt the insanity here. Also, what’s up with your tiny writing? The tiny writing is because I want to save parchment; this diary is over two-thirds filled and who knows when or if I’d be able to replace it. As to the rest, I’ve been busy maintaining my façade. Also worrying. So… you may be the worst pony to talk to about this but I don’t know who else to turn to. Thanks for the vote of confidence. I need relationship advice. …You’re right. I am the worst pony you could talk to. You must be desperate. I kind of am. I’ll cut right to the chase: I think Rarity is in love with me. …Seriously? I mean, it’s not really surprising since the Rarity here shtups Applejack on the side when they’re both in between boyfriends. They think we don’t notice, but we do… except Pinkie Pie, which is fine because they don’t want a public party. P.P. doesn’t understand the idea of a casual fling. And you do? I’ve read about them in books! I guess I sort of maybe had one with Flash after he dumped you. Or you dumped him, I guess. You didn’t. You really didn’t. Not like the big doof didn’t try though. That fail is on you, Twilight. In fact, you need to get your act together as much as I do or he’s going to move on and find a permanent girlfriend who won’t throw a jackhammer at him. (jackhammer?) I know, I know, but I just have all these Princess of Friendship duties here! There just isn’t time for me to go through that mirror on a whim anymore. Sometimes… I wish I could just get rid of these wings, earn back a little freedom. I wish you could too. Interpret that however you want. Heavy is the head that wears the crown. If She didn’t tell you that, She really should have. But we’re talking about you. You and Rarity. Do you like her? She’s my best friend. I’d be lost without her. Do you like her?? I guess. To be honest, I’m not sure what direction I swing, if any. I certainly felt something when she left those sexy photos for me to look at. She’s a gorgeous girl. A good kid who deserves better than a washed up liar like me. What do you mean by that? I haven’t told her the truth about, well, a lot of things. Lying by omission. I’ve said almost nothing about my past, including my real age. If I come clean, will she leave me? Potential lover aside, I’m terrified of losing my closest friend. You know, Cadance told me something when I was pining over your ex. Good thing I never really cared about the blue-haired oaf. Much. What did Caddy say? To paraphrase: If she truly loves you, she’ll let all that slide. I certainly hope so. …There’s one more thing. What is it? I’m strongly considering returning to Equestria. Pretty bad timing, don’t you think? Of course it is; I’m not dumb. Going back has been on my mind for awhile now, long before this stuff with Rarity happened. I think… I need to see Her and accept what’s due me. That’s really mature of you. Or stupid. I expect the moment I return I’ll be arrested and put on trial for, well, lots of things. The punishment for most of them is banishment plus summary incarceration. I’d be happy to testify before a tribunal in your defense! Not even the Chancellor coul— Stop. You’re a princess. So is Caddy. Equestria is a land of Laws nowadays. I doubt either of you could. So, I’m screwed. At least in my current prison, I have some semblance of freedom, along with people who care about me. Someone who loves me, whether I deserve it or not. Sure as hell never got that in Equestria. I don’t think you’re right on that last point, but… Regardless, I don’t know what to do about this Rarity situation. Neither do I, but I’ll try my best. This is a bit beyond friendship, so… I appreciate your willingness to help, really, even if you don’t know what you’re doing. You flatter me, Sunset. ‘Welcome. Anyway, if your Rarity is anything like ours, she’ll eventually get frustrated and take matters into her own hoov— hands. She won’t murder me in my sleep, will she? I had a dream about that. What?! No! Maybe you need to see a therapist. I know one in Canterlot. His name is Doctor Vo— Yeah, yeah, I know I do. But not now. First things first. Right. So, she’s probably going to see you and you need to be prepared. How do I do that? …I have no idea. Thank you for that valuable insight. Truly you are a magnificent princess. Hey, I didn’t ask for this either! But it’s my duty now and I will fulfill it. Y’know, it’s funny. Ten years ago, I wanted to be a Princess so badly, I broke every law in the land to try and force it to happen. After some literal tough love and over half a year of serious thought… I couldn’t care less anymore. You can have your boring responsibilities and tedious travels. As I said. Rarity is the type who will eventually say how she feels. I can’t tell you how to prepare for that. I’m not you. Just… follow your instincts. Okay, let me rephrase that. Follow your better instincts. Just so you know, I’m rolling my eyes right now. Maybe I should have asked Caddy instead. She is the Princess of Love after all. She would spend all her time peppering you with questions about the last decade of your life and forget to help because she’d be too excited from communicating with you. Point taken. Anyway, I’m sorry I can’t be more of a help. Good luck, Sunset. I hope this all works out, and that your dreams tonight are pleasant for once. Thanks. You too, Twilight.
Chapter Three: Together Sunset, I wish to see you on a matter of vital importance. Is Thursday after work okay? If so, please let me know. I look forward to your reply. —R “She didn’t need to send a formal letter,” Sunset Shimmer said to her smiley-face pillow Happy as she reread the note for the eightieth time in six days. “What am I going to do?” As midday shifted to the long summer afternoon, Sunset paced a small circle in her tiny sparse living room, muttering incomprehensible gibberish to herself, hoping a downstairs neighbour wouldn’t complain about the noise, when her hamster wheel of thought was interrupted by a knock on her door. After steadying herself on her stolen cable spool coffee table for a moment, she stepped tentatively to undo the latches and deadbolts. Opposite the threshold stood Rarity, bedecked in a blue sun-dress and woven rubber-sole sandals, her hair tied in a wavy ponytail, face protected by a wide-brimmed hat and almost absurdly large sunglasses. She clasped something behind her back. At Sunset’s entreaty, Rarity entered, removing her hat to hang it on the coat-rack to her right. Her sunglasses were on a string, so she slipped them off and draped them around hat. Sunset could not help but notice Rarity’s dress was fairly low cut, showing a nonzero amount of cleavage and much leg. She was somewhat less observant of the fact that her friend’s alabaster skin was tinged pink on her face. Blushing. “Sorry,” Sunset said. “I decided to take your advice and start actually locking my door.” Rarity nodded slowly. “Th-that’s okay. I’m… glad you do. After all, I’d hate for anything to happen to you.” “I can take care of myself… I think… but I appreciate the concern, really,” replied Sunset with a shrug and a smile. “Care to, uh, take a seat on Ol’ Charlie? Kick up your feet?” she asked, gesturing to the navy blue sofa. Rarity lowered her head. “In a moment. There’s… something else first.” “Does it have to do with whatever it is you’re hiding behind your back?” asked Sunset. “You could say that,” replied Rarity quietly with a nod. Sunset shrugged one shoulder. “Well, let’s have it.” Rarity sighed quietly and produced what appeared to be a box of chocolates. It was about a foot long, six inches wide, and just over an inch thick, made out of extremely dense material and covered in a textured red paper. It was also wrapped with a gold-coloured ribbon. “It looks kind of like my hair, in a way,” Sunset observed. “…in a way…” Rarity agreed quietly. Then, without any warning whatsoever, she lifted the box up with both hands as high as she could and brought it down swiftly to bear upon Sunset’s cranium with an audible ‘bonk!’. “Ow!” Sunset vocalized involuntarily. “I LOVE YOU!!” Rarity near-screamed as she raised the box again. Sunset had no time to react as Rarity repeated the motion, each time punctuated with the same phrase. “I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!! I LOVE YOU!!” After that, Rarity allowed her arms to go noodle-limp, dropping the now-dented box onto the carpet. Sunset, meanwhile, had fallen to a sitting position on the floor and needed a few minutes for her world to stop spinning and her brain to re-calibrate. Once it had, she carefully got back on her feet to approach her unexpectedly violent but sobbing friend, placing her hands on Rarity’s shoulders, partly to stay upright. “That was… interesting,” said Sunset, her voice still a tad loopy. Rarity sniffled. “Shall we sit down now? Seems like there’s a lot we need to talk about,” Sunset said with a smile as she staggered toward her usual sitting spot. Rarity bowed her head and sat on ‘her’ side of the sofa, closest to the door, keeping her feet on the floor and hands in her lap. Sunset soon plopped down beside her, putting her feet up on the stolen cable spool ‘table’. “Gauche, isn’t it?” Sunset asked with a smirk. Rarity tilted her head. “I… what?” “Using a table as a hassock.” Sunset noted Rarity’s look of confusion (and continued blushing). “That’s, uh, another word for ‘ottoman’. Stalliongrad, being as removed from civilization as it is, occasionally used different terms for some things.” “I… see.” Sunset leaned back as best she could, trying to relax. As she lifted her arms, she noticed through her peripheral vision that Rarity’s eyes appeared to be focused on her breasts, bulging like twin pluton domes underneath her teal tank-top. She sighed, not out of irritation or frustration, but amusement. “So,” Sunset declared, “I was going to ask what could possibly have been so important that you’d send me a formal letter, but… I think I have a pretty good idea now.” The hue on Rarity’s face quickly came to resemble a turnip. Sunset gave a disarming smile as she rubbed the knot on her head. “Who gave you the idea? Flash?” Rarity nodded with a squeak. Shaking her head, stifling a chuckle, Sunset said, “Well, I can’t think of any better way to get a point across. I guess that pea-brain can be useful when he wants to be.” Rarity squeaked again, trying to shrink into herself on the sofa. Sunset changed her tone to one of seriousness as she turned to Rarity. “You know I think of you as my closest friend, right?” Rarity nodded. “Mm-hmm,” she vocalized quietly. “And, well, I’m willing to guess you take that as seriously as I do, right?” “…yes…” Rarity replied, her voice starting to crack. Sunset took in a breath and exhaled slowly. “I’m sure you know that what you just did was a tremendous risk. How might I react?” Rarity began to tremble. Sunset could tell her friend was doing everything in her power to not cry. “But it’s okay,” Sunset assured her. “I know I’m not the brightest bulb in the chandelier, and sometimes it takes direct action to get me to see my errors, be it a magic rainbow to the face or a box of chocolates (I assume) to the head.” She rubbed Rarity’s shoulders, feeling their tenseness ease slightly from the kind touch. “Communication is the foundation of a g—” Her words were interrupted as Rarity thrust herself across the sofa, wrapped her arms around Sunset, and locked lips with her, eyes shut, refusing to let go. Sunset, after the initial shock, allowed herself to simply feel the warmth of her best friend’s kiss, basking in her tight embrace. At once, their entire several months relationship flashed before her eyes – the encounter at the boutique, their meeting in Connemara Square, the talk out of the figurative dark pit of despair, the time they watched the sun set on the roof, help in coaxing her back to the land of the living, the dinner date at the burrito barn, and of course their mutual conversation with that blue-haired guy Sunset had once claimed for herself but now could not possibly care less. All melted away as Sunset felt a sort of nascent electricity coursing through her system, temporarily overwhelming the logic functions of her brain. The softness of Rarity’s lips, the subtle scent of lavender on her hair, the smoothness of her alabaster skin, perhaps a taste of grape from lip gloss, all served to overwhelm the higher functions of Sunset’s brain. Operating on instinct, she shifted herself forward, no longer passive, and kissed back, wrapping her arms around her best friend’s slender figure, causing Rarity to move in further, pushing Sunset nearly onto her back on the couch. Sunset, being more experienced in such things, made a mental note that, regardless of the subtle movements of mouth muscles and Rarity’s soft sensuous moaning, Rarity was clearly a near-novice at the art of the kiss and was operating chiefly on instinct. Their breaths intertwined within the joined space. When Rarity tried to insert her tongue, Sunset subtly pulled back, which was enough to give Rarity the hint to not try, but a tighter hug from Sunset signalled to her to keep going on everything else. After what felt like an eternity, yet not nearly long enough, they broke the embrace. A soft ‘smack’ sounded as their lips disentangled. Both found themselves breathing heavily for several seconds as their lungs tried to refill all that lost oxygen. Sunset’s blinked a few times. “Wow,” was all she could whisper. Meanwhile, Rarity’s eyelids were heavy, emphasizing the blue eyeshadow she habitually wore. It took her nearly a minute to speak, but eventually she said softly what she had already yelled at Sunset seventeen times. However, the single time at lower volume had infinitely more impact. “I love you.” Sunset smiled and nodded slowly. “I know.” “I…” “I’m only sorry I was too dense to notice earlier,” Sunset said. “When you’ve been through everything I have, it’s only natural to question everything and everyone.” Rarity leaned into Sunset, her head resting on Sunset’s ample bosom. “Sunset, my darling. You need not question me. I’ve been in love with you for months.” “And it’s my fault for not seeing it,” replied Sunset. “There’s just… one problem,” Rarity said, her lips shifting into pout-mode. “And that is?” Rarity drew in a tentative breath. “Do you feel the same way about me?” Sunset sighed as she dipped her head. She could hear Rarity’s breathing become more frantic and panicked. “…Yes,” she finally said, causing Rarity to exhale in relief. “But…” “But…what?” asked Rarity, her voice betraying a measure of worry. Sunset steeled her guts to speak. “There’s a lot you don’t know about me. Things I’ve been hiding from everyone. I… really do care for you, more than anyone else in the multiverse, and I can’t imagine my life without you. To be honest, I’m terrified or your reaction once I tell you about the real Sunset Shimmer, that you’ll… reject me, never want to see me again. And I wouldn’t blame you one bit.” Rarity cocked her head in confusion. “You mean the things Flash has been alluding to?” Sunset nodded. She reached out to stroke Rarity’s hair but held herself back. “He already knows just about everything, and I’m pretty sure he’s dropped as many hints as he could without getting in trouble.” “He spoke in circles and riddles,” Rarity said as she rubbed her chin. Sunset sighed. “Are you sure you want to know the truth?” she asked. “My darling, I don’t… think I could go on without knowing. Best friends or lovers shouldn’t hide things from each other. Right?” “Okay,” Sunset replied with resignation. “Don’t say no one warned you. If, after I’ve explained myself, you never want to see me again, I’ll understand.” “Please. Explain, my dear.” Sunset cleared her throat. “Fine. I’m not a high school student; I graduated years ago. I turn twenty-six next week. I carry on the charade of being a student at CHS so that I can stay near that horse statue portal without arousing suspicion. Faculty know this; we have a quid pro quo relationship wherein I take the standardized tests to raise the school’s average score and net them more funding. I also tutored their idiots for a discounted price, though my experience with Trixie made me back off on that part of the deal. In exchange, they turn a blind eye to and cover for almost everything I do, including keeping the police and government off my back.” Rarity stared with a blank expression, silent as Sunset continued. “Nearly five years ago, they turned me down for a teaching position, which forced me into this situation. Unfortunately, I used my experience and powers of observation for… less than honourable means. I relished my new role as alpha-girl too much and, well, ruined lives for no good reason. Especially yours. Because I was jealous. Remember, I told you months ago that, as I was then, I wouldn’t have cared if you’d died,” Sunset concluded with clear venom in her voice. Rarity blinked slowly, her face still registering no emotion. “And now you know,” Sunset spat. “So, can you still possibly say you love me?” Rarity sniffed as her eyes involuntarily welled up with tears. “Yes. Because… I’ve come to know the real you. Strip away that veneer of anger and jealousy, and you’re so kind and considerate, always worried about others before yourself. Only a true friend would call in favours to keep me from being in trouble with our school’s administration or the Truant Officers. You may not think much of those gestures, but it’s because of that that I love you so much.” Sunset’s eyebrows screwed up in confusion. “Did you not hear the ‘I’m eight years older than you’ part?” “I did,” Rarity said. “And I don’t care. Age is only a number, after all.” Sunset involuntarily shrank back. “Uh… I think the cops might believe otherwise. You know they kinda hate me.” Rarity crawled onto Sunset and began running her index finger across Sunset’s left breast, causing her nipple to involuntarily harden. “I’m legal now, you know. As of last week.” “Yes, we were all at that party,” Sunset agreed. “But… your parents…” “…can, as you might say, spin on it,” Rarity finished the sentence. “I don’t care about anything in this world, as long as I can have you.” She moved to embrace Sunset again, this time allowing her hands to wander towards Sunset’s glutes, well-toned from years of daily mile-long constitutionals. Sunset felt the warmth growing in her loins. Everything in the higher functioning parts of her brain screamed at her to hold back, but that pesky amygdala insisted she go for it. So she did, shifting her weight so that she was on top of her best friend. They locked lips again. Eventually, Rarity’s hands slipped under Sunset’s tank-top and began to massage her sizable breasts. Sunset, for her part, stroked Rarity’s long purple hair, occasionally allowing a brief touch of her butt, but the sensation of having someone other than herself stimulate one of her erogenous zones nearly caused her to give over to lust. When, as their lips were still locked, Rarity made a move for Sunset’s crotch, Sunset stopped her, snapping both of them out of their lust stupor. “What’s wrong, my darling?” Rarity asked. Sunset gave a wan, guilty smile. “This isn’t me. It isn’t you either. I know you’ve been holding back for a long time, but… I don’t want to go so far right out of the gate.” “But…” Rarity pouted, clearly hurt. Sunset shook her head. “I said I love you, and I mean it. But, we just confessed. I’d rather our relationship burn like a Yule Log than a firework. We still have time.” “Do we?” Rarity asked with suspicion. “You said before the school year ended that you wanted to return to your homeworld.” “Well, you’re reason enough for me to hang around for awhile longer,” replied Sunset with a smirk. Rarity’s blush deepened beyond the point any sane individual would expect. “So,” Sunset said as she kicked her feet back up on the table and reached for her television’s remote control, “Let’s see where this new life takes us, shall we?” A beaming smile spread across Rarity’s face. “Yes!” She draped herself across Sunset, laying in her lap as Sunset turned on the television. The signal from the aerial produced footage of some talk show wherein a man in a cheap suit talked to a heavy-set Knocktown woman about her ‘baby-daddy’ or something. “This show is terrible,” Sunset said, utterly content. “I was hoping the snarky lady judge would be on. Not yet.” “Shall we wait?” Rarity asked with a yawn, not moving her head from Sunset’s lap. Sunset looked down at her best friend and/or new lover. “Of course.” As the television blathered on, they did not move, nor had any desire to. Sunset let out a contented sigh as Rarity began to snore softly. Today was a wonderful day. With luck, little by little, she felt her life could only improve. “After all,” Sunset whispered to herself, “Feeling loved and wanted is the greatest feeling in the world. Thank you, you amazing silly girl, for accepting me for me.” Author's Note There we go. It's taken over three years real-time, but the journey is now complete. Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed the ride!
