Dash’s Little Big Secret

Chapters

What in the Actual Hay??
...Right?
They Were Wrong...
So Very Wrong
The Plan
The Secret Is Out
What's Wrong?
It's Not Okay!
Break Up Blues
Makin' Things Right
The Best Secret She's Ever Kept
Just Something In The Hair

What in the Actual Hay??

Author's Note

First!
No, this is NOT apart of my small little Rainbow Dash series that you guys have been following lately. (However, if you would like to think of this as something that happens after the events in my past stories feel free!)
Over the past month, I had started the next story in the child Rainbow series and realized that I’m kind of burned out. :fluttercry: . I am currently stuck on how to finish the next part of the series and don’t want to put anything out that isn’t organized.
This story however is different from my usual style of writing, so bear with me! It is also my first story that will include chapters..
Soo...To avoid confusion This story is:
-Set AFTER Rainbow’s childhood. (Everyone is 16-17 years old)

-Set AFTER Friendship Games
Okay, enjoy the story! Thank you for reading!

What in the Actual Hay??

“Hey girls!”

A young woman with prismatic hair strode up to a familiar horse statue where five other girls stood, her voice cracked as she greeted them. Among these girls stood a messy, pink-haired, and blue eyed, ball of energy. She perked up immediately when she had seen her rainbow haired friend and ran to hug her.

“Rainbow Dash!” she squealed as she hugged as tight as she possibly could.

“Hey, Pinkie Pie...” Rainbow Dash strained and struggled against Pinkie, “Kinda..need..to..breathe.”

Her blue face became paler than usual and her magenta eyes seemed to dart in different directions.

“Oh yeah..right!” Pinkie Pie giggled and put her friend down, who now seemed to be gasping for air, “Sorry Dashie.”

Pinkie Pie had always forgotten that her energy could be too much for others to handle at times, but she didn’t mean to cause any harm. She had grown up always wanting to spread cheer and make people smile, and of course she made no exceptions for her five friends.

“Don’t sweat it, Pinks.” Rainbow said as she finally caught her breath.

Suddenly, a softer voice spoke up.

“Rainbow, you’re early again! Wait, not that it is a bad thing of course...you just caught us by surprise!”

The voice belonged to a taller girl named Fluttershy. She and Rainbow Dash were known to be the closest out of the six girls gathered together, as they had known each other the longest. Fluttershy had light yellow skin, soft pink hair, and beautiful teal eyes. She was known to be quiet, kind, and just as her name states; shy. Even with her reputation of being so sensitive and fragile, Fluttershy could do very well on her own. She knew that sometimes she couldn’t let others treat her any way they wanted and she had to be assertive.

Rainbow scoffed at her friend’s nervousness.

“Relax, Shy. I just thought you’d have been used to me being early by now. I haven’t been late to class since like last week!”

“Exactly...that’s why it’s weird.” another girl with a heavy southern accent spoke up with crossed arms.

Applejack wore a large Stetson hat that went well with her blonde hair and green eyes. Her tanned orange face was spotted with freckles all over, and she was known for her brutal honesty towards others. Applejack hated when people lied to her, and she sensed that she was being lied to at this very moment. A frown etched her face as she stared at Rainbow Dash.

You see, the girls had always gathered in front of Canterlot High School almost a half an hour before classes began. They would all be gathered around the infamous horse statue, which also happened to be a magical portal, in front of the school. However, the girls gathered around the statue would only usually consist of:

Applejack herself, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Sunset Shimmer, and Twilight Sparkle. Notice how that lineup does not include Rainbow Dash at all. It wasn’t because the girls were excluding her, but only because it wasn’t normal for her to be there that early in the morning.

Rainbow Dash was a confident, energetic, and loyal friend. She was on, and the captain of, most of the sports teams at Canterlot High, however, her main focus was always pointed towards soccer. Rainbow had always thought highly of herself; always calling herself awesome; and was very competitive. She cared a lot about her reputation and how people saw her. Despite all of this, Rainbow cared very much for her friends as well. Whenever they needed her, she was willing to drop everything to help them and get them whatever they needed.

When it came to school however, Applejack knew that the only reason Dash had shown up was because she had to. Applejack would always find Rainbow popping in halfway during their first period English class every morning, looking tired, bored, and miserable. The teacher would normally reprimand her, she’d obviously not care, and take a seat next to Applejack before falling asleep not even five minutes later. Now, that was normal for Rainbow Dash.

However, now on this cloudy morning in Canterlot High, just as Rainbow said, she began meeting up with the girls in the morning before school began. It was a shock and a pleasant surprise the first time she had come before class, but now, she hasn’t been late at all lately. Perhaps the most suspicious thing out of all of this is that Rainbow seems almost happy to be there with her friends. Of course this isn’t a bad thing, but Applejack expected that Rainbow would show up looking as if she had just rolled out of bed. She wasn’t grumpy or showing any signs of unhappiness.

Rainbow was genuinely cheerful, and ready to take on the day. Not only that, but Dash had been much more cheerful and generous throughout the day as well. She wasn’t snapping at Pinkie bothering her, or Rarity playing with her hair. She hasn’t been bothering Twilight or Sunset when they went on their rants about their grades or their lessons. Heck, Applejack thought that Rainbow has been letting her win their past few competitions! There was something going on here, and Applejack didn’t like it.

“What is going on with ya?” Applejack pointed a finger at Rainbow Dash.

“What do you mean?” Rainbow asked looking confused.

“You never were this early to class before...well Ah can’t even remember! You are up to somethin’, and Ah’m gonna find out ya hear?” Applejack walked slowly towards her friend, who seemed to be growing more confused with each step she took.

“Hey! Is it so bad that I might actually want to get to school on time?” Rainbow defended herself.

“Of course not! But, you’ve been acting weirder than usual. This ain’t the only thing I’ve noticed.”

“AJ, I’m sixteen, almost seventeen years old. We are almost done with high school, and I realized that not only is all of my lates affecting my grades, but that I’m also missing this time to spend with you guys in the morning! This isn’t going to last forever, and I don’t think that getting a few extra minutes of sleep is worth losing memories with my best friends..I’m so sorry if what I’m doing is wrong.” Rainbow crossed her arms and looked down, “I have to go get my things anyway. I’ll see you guys later.” Rainbow said dismissively.

With that, Rainbow sped off inside Canterlot High. Applejack turned around to meet the disapproving looks on her friends’ faces. Rarity, a girl with curled, deep purple hair, spoke up.

“Applejack darling, we’ve all noticed the change in Rainbow’s behavior! That doesn’t mean that it’s a bad thing.” Her disapproving blue eyes met Applejack’s.

“Exactly. I actually think that it is a good thing. It’s about time she learns to take school seriously.” Twilight stated, pushing up her glasses and pulling her navy blue ponytail, “Sunset Shimmer would say the same. Too bad she want back through that portal to meet that pony princess.”

“It’s okay Applejack...she’ll probably cool down by lunch.” Fluttershy said suddenly, putting a hand over Applejack’s, referring to Rainbow Dash.

“Thanks Fluttershy, Ah didn’t mean to say anythin’ wrong, Ah just think that somethin’ is goin on, that’s all.” Applejack smiled as the first bell rang.

Applejack went throughout her day as normal, with the exception of Rainbow throwing sarcastic and snarky comments at her occasionally. Other than that, Rainbow was still in a fairly good mood just as she had been lately.

Applejack decided to head home as soon as the final bell rang. As she turned into the entrance of Sweet Apple Acres, she wondered why Rainbow was still so upset with her. Applejack stopped suddenly as she realized: she never really apologized or had given Rainbow any explanation as to why she blew up like that! She sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose as she struggled to figure out what to do next. She thought that it would be best to get her chores done before anything else, and that by the time she was done, Rainbow would be done with soccer practice. She’d head back over to Canterlot High just before she left to talk to her.

AJ then went inside the barn to find her brother, who was just two years older than her, putting his equipment away. Big Macintosh was a light skinned, orange haired, and strong young adult. He, like his sister, had freckles that were spotted all over his face, and large green eyes. He was very tall, strong, and had a deep voice. Despite that, Big Macintosh was very quiet, shy even, but was a very hard worker. Applejack raised her eyebrow at the fact that Big Macintosh seemed to be putting everything away, as if he were done for the day.

“Mac? Are ya done?” Applejack asked simply.

“Eeyup!” he answered with a smug smile.

“But, don’t you always say that ‘A farmers’ work is never done’?”

“Eeyup.”

“But you’re done?”

“Eeyup.”

“I thought that ya always do extra work on the farm even after you’re done. Isn’t that what ya always do?”

“Eeyup.”

“But today you’re not gonna do the extra work?”

“Eenope.”

“Why? Are ya sick?”

“Eenope.”

“Are ya tired?”

“Eenope.”

“So why do ya suddenly wanna change things up out of nowhere?!” Applejack exclaimed, putting her hands on her hips.

“Ah got plans.” Big Macintosh said, without looking at his younger sister.

“You.”

“Eeyup.”

“You have plans?”

“Eeyup.”

“What kinda plans?”

“The special kind.”

“Gosh darn it, Mac! Stop beating around the bush and just tell me what’s goin’ on!” Applejack tossed her book bag on a bale of hay in frustration.

“Ah have things Ah have to do this afternoon. Is that a problem for ya, AJ?” Big Macintosh raised his eyebrow.

“Why you little- Of course it ain’t a problem! It’s just weird for ya to suddenly have special plans! You are always puttin’ your farmwork first and now all of a sudden this thing is causin’ ya to put everythin’ aside?”

“Eeyup.”

Applejack clenched her jaw and gritted her teeth. Why isn’t her brother telling her anything? What could be so important that would make him want to ditch his chores?

“Hey AJ? Is Apple Bloom usin’ this?” Big Macintosh’s voice brought Applejack out of her thoughts. In his hand was a dirty old soccer ball that was found in the corner of the barn.

“Uh..no, I don’t think so.” Applejack replied slowly.

“Alright then. I’ll see ya later lil’ sis.” Big Mac nodded with the soccer ball tucked underneath his arm. He messed with his hair a bit before walking out completely.

Applejack was baffled. Her eighteen- year old brother had just ditched the rest of his chores and took a soccer ball out of the barn for “special plans”?

“What in the actual hay is goin’ on here?” Applejack whispered to herself, as she picked up an empty bucket and headed out towards the apple orchard.

...Right?

The next day at Sweet Apple Acres was a Saturday. The sun was shining and it was a cool autumn day. Apple Bloom and the CMC were running around the orchard acting out their favorite scene from the newest movie, while Applejack silently organized some tools in the shed. She looked back when she had heard the door creak open and saw her older brother walk in.

“Mornin’ AJ.” He greeted, and grabbed a rake.

“Mornin’ Big Mac.” Applejack replied, trying not to sound angry.

Ever since she had seen what had happened between Big Macintosh and Rainbow, she couldn’t help but be upset and confused. It was weird for her to think about any of her best friends in a relationship with her brother, especially Dash. Applejack loved Rainbow very much, but she didn’t think that she was the right match for her brother. They were so different. Rainbow was loud and competitive and her brother was quiet and took things slow. Rainbow had a very short temper, while Big Mac had a lot of patience. While Rainbow was a great friend, she did have her flaws, and Applejack was afraid that some of those flaws might rub off on her brother. He was already ditching his chores for her, what else was he willing to leave behind when they got more serious? How does Applejack know they aren’t already serious? Who knows how long the two have had feelings for each other?

Not only was Applejack protective of her brother, she was concerned for Rainbow as well. What if being in a relationship changed her? Sure, she was changing in a good way now, but what about later down the line? What if she separated herself from the group, just to hang out with her brother?

“AJ, you’ve been holdin’ that shovel for two minutes now. Can Ah have it please?” Big Macintosh was looking down at his sister, who was kneeling on the ground.

“Oh, shoot. Sorry, here ya go.” Applejack cursed herself for spacing out like that, and stood up.

“Thanks.” Big Macintosh took the shovel and turned to leave. He took a few steps before stopping and turning back around to face his sister.

“Are ya okay?” He asked.

“Of course Ah am! Now go, you still have some work to do don’t ya?” Applejack brushed her brother off quickly.

“Eeyup...Just...Ah’m right here if ya ever need anything ya hear?”

Applejack looked into her brother’s green eyes and smiled.

“Ah know ya big dummy. Now go, before Granny finds ya slackin’ off!” Applejack and her brother chuckled.

Applejack realized that she was done sorting things out and was free for the next few hours. She took a deep breath in and wondered if she should tell Rainbow Dash that she knew about her little secret. She hasn’t told her yet for a reason, and from the looks of it, none of the other girls seemed to know either. Maybe one of them was not ready to announce anything yet, and even though Applejack was a bit torn with how she felt, she understood. Until one of the two told her themselves, Applejack would act as if she knew nothing. Besides, they’d have to tell her at some point right?

Once again, Applejack’s thoughts were interrupted when she heard the sound of her phone go off. Rainbow Dash and the girls were having a conversation in the group chat that they all had together. There, Rainbow explained that her mother was out of town for a few days and had wanted her to clean out her attic. She asked if any of the girl’s had wanted to help her and come over. It seemed that everyone, not including Sunset, agreed to come over that day, and Applejack typed in her reply as well.

I’ll be right over.

“Mac! Ah’m goin’ over to Dash’s house! Let Granny know for me!” Applejack shouted as she left the shed. Her brother was found in the orchard not too far from where she stood, and he gave her a thumbs up to let her know that she was heard.

Before leaving, Applejack thought that it would be best if she had changed into some jeans. She would have to walk to Rainbow’s house and it would not be fun walking in a skirt considering how cold it was outside. After quickly heading upstairs and changing, Applejack began her jog to Rainbow’s.

In a matter of minutes, Applejack found herself at Rainbow’s front door. She didn’t hesitate before knocking and placing her hands in her pocket. Suddenly, the door opened to reveal Fluttershy, also wearing jeans and having her pink hair tied in a neat ponytail.

“Oh, Applejack! Hi!” Fluttershy smiled sweetly and opened the door wider, allowing Applejack to walk in.

“Hey, Flutters,” Applejack greeted as she made her way into Rainbow’s living room, “Is Dash here?” she asked, confused with the absence of her friend.

“Oh yeah, um...she had a phone call that she had to take. She should be down in a few.” Fluttershy explained.

“Why couldn’t she stay down here and talk?”

“She told me it was kind of personal...I didn’t question her after that.”

“I see.” Applejack said. Her eyebrow was raised as she had an idea of who she was talking to.

It wasn’t long before the girls heard Rainbow coming down the steps.

“Yeah yeah...look I gotta go!” Rainbow was saying with a hushed tone.

“Shut up!” she giggled after a few moments.

Fluttershy smiled while listening to Rainbow, and turned to face Applejack.

“I wonder who she’s talking to.” she said, putting a loose hair behind her ear.

“YeahokayIgottagonowbye!” Rainbow quickly said before finally coming downstairs with a smile on her face, placing her phone in her pocket.

“Hey, sorry Shy that was just-” Rainbow walked in and froze when she had seen Applejack sitting on the couch, “Oh, hey AJ!”

“Howdy.”

The sound of the door knocking caught everyone’s attention.

“I’ll get it.” Fluttershy smiled, standing up and walking out of the room.

Rainbow looked at Applejack with a serious expression on her face. She mouthed the words, “I need to talk to you.” before sitting down herself. Applejack only nodded in response.

“Guys! The rest of the girls are here!” Fluttershy called, and Rainbow had left the room to go and see her friends.

Is she finally gonna tell me? Applejack wondered.

Twilight moved what seemed to be the fiftieth box in the dusty attic. She flinched and coughed as she opened the box and dust came flying towards her face. After the small dust attack, Twilight smiled as she pulled out an old clock.

“Rainbow, I didn’t know you owned so many antiques!” she stated while inspecting the clock.

“A what?” Rainbow questioned from across the room.

“An antique. You know, a valuable-never mind you aren’t even listening.”

“Nope!”

While the other girls giggled, Pinkie found a smaller box. It was different from the others, as it was wrapped in lace and covered in white fabric. She opened the box and at the very top, there was a paper.

“December 5, 2001.” Pinkie recited, reading off of the paper, “7 pounds and 4 ounces.”

Rainbow Dash looked up in horror, realizing what Pinkie had found.

“Oh! It’s your birth certificate!” Pinkie cheered and continued reading, “Rainbow Elizabeth Jennifer Dashall. Aww How cute!”

Twilight perked up from her corner, “Dashall?”

Rarity also spoke up, “Jennifer?”

Applejack wore an evil, sly, smirk as she spoke, “Elizabeth?”

“Alright, enough.” Rainbow stomped over and snatched the paper out of Pinkie’s hands, “I’ll take care of this box.”

“Okie Dokie Lokie, Dashall!” Pinkie cheered again.

The others laughed as Rainbow rolled her eyes and groaned. As the others seemed busy, Rainbow took her chance and grabbed Applejack by the wrist. She pulled her friend to the farthest corner away from her friends.

“What the hay?” Applejack exclaimed.

“Shhh!” Rainbow hushed.

“What is it?” Applejack questioned, a lot quieter now.

“I told you I had to talk to you didn’t I?”

“Well I didn’t think ya meant now!”

“Look. Listen, this isn’t the easiest thing for me to talk about right now. I just want to get it over with.”

Applejack’s hard gaze softened after hearing that. She grabbed a stool that was near and sat down.

“Alright, go on ahead.” she said softly.

“This may sound weird, but it’s just one question.”

“Ah’m listenin.’”

“Let’s say...I did something that made you mad.”

“Ok?”

“Like really mad.”

“Yeah?”

“Like super, crazy, ‘I can’t believe you’ mad.”

“I think I get it, Rainbow.” Applejack rolled her eyes.

“Would you...um...would you still be friends with me?” Rainbow avoided eye contact with Applejack. It was almost as if all of her confidence suddenly disappeared.

Applejack knew exactly why she was asking this question. She was afraid that she and Big Mac together would ruin their friendship! The blonde farm girl bit her bottom lip to keep from hugging her friend immediately. That one question got rid of all of her worries from earlier on in the day. How could she think Rainbow would leave her and the rest of the girls? She had forgotten one of the most important traits of Rainbow; Loyalty. She felt so ashamed to have doubted her friend in the first place. Sure, she may not totally approve of the two together yet, but Rainbow obviously thought about their friendship first.

However, as much as she wanted to say all of that to Rainbow, Applejack had to give a response that wouldn’t give Rainbow any hints that she had known her secret.

“Well...Dash, Ah guess it’d depend on what ya did.” she said as casually as possible.

“Oh..” the rainbow haired girl looked down, her magenta eyes flooded with disappointment.

“But hey. Look at me,” Applejack instructed, and used her hand to prop Rainbow’s chin up, “Just know that Ah’m not gonna let go of ya that easy. If we can make it through Sunset’s reign of terror, then Ah think we can work out whatever made me super mad at ya. Dash, you can be annoyin’ as hell sometimes...but you’re my friend and things aren’t always gonna be perfect between us. The important part is that we get through those problems, no matter how hard headed ya are.”

Rainbow looked as if she were ready to burst into tears, and for a second, Applejack was afraid that she would, but instead she turned and swallowed.

“Thanks, doofus. But all you had to do was say yes.” Rainbow finally said and turned around with a mischievous smirk slapped on her face.

“Ugh, Ah hate you.” Applejack grunted and threw an arm around her friend.

Rainbow stuck her tongue out, “Love ya too.”

The girls shared a laugh before they were interrupted by a loud and horrific shriek coming from across the room. Both girls looked at each other in surprise.

“What was that?” Rainbow questioned and almost ran to find out. However, she was stopped by Applejack grabbing her wrist.

“Ya sure you don’t want to tell me anythin’ else?” Applejack asked, hoping that Rainbow would tell her.

Rainbow looked at where Applejack was grabbing her for a moment before looking into her green eyes,

“I don’t think I’m ready yet. But I’ll tell you soon. I promise.” Rainbow gave a weak smile and received one from Applejack in return.

The girls immediately turned to find out who had screamed, and found the girls all gathered around Rarity.

“What happened?”

“Are y’all okay?”

Applejack and Rainbow ran over to their friends.

“No! This is terrible!” Rarity shrieked.

“Rare, what’s wrong?” Rainbow pushed, very concerned.

“I broke my nail!”

“You’re kiddin’ right?” Applejack deadpanned.

“I wish I was, darling!”

Rainbow turned on her heels and started going through a new box.

“I don’t understand how we are still friends...honestly.” Rainbow mumbled.

Applejack couldn’t help but laugh. She had felt much better now, knowing that she finally had a plan. She would have to wait until Rainbow was ready to tell her about everything going on with her brother. That shouldn’t be too long of a wait.

..Right?

Author's Note

I hope this chapter wasn’t too bad... :pinkiesick:
For those who are keeping track of this story for the MacDash, the fluff is coming!!
Thank you for reading!!
:heart:

PS: I remember reading the name Dashall in another story (Like a year or two ago) and really liked the name! So credit to whoever I took inspiration from! The name did not come from me!

They Were Wrong...

Rainbow Dash frowned as she sat on the steps that led to her front door. She wore a dark blue hoodie with jeans, and her rainbow hair fell past her shoulders. It was a cool spring day and there were no clouds in the sky. Rainbow would have loved this type of weather, especially since it was the first time it had been like this since the fall. However, this was what was bothering her. It wasn’t the weather that made her upset, but the fact that it was spring. Months had passed since Rainbow had talked to Applejack in her attic. It had been months since Rainbow had promised to tell Applejack her biggest secret.

She was dating her older brother.

Not only had she not told Applejack, but no one else knew except for her own mother, and that was only because she was caught talking to him over the phone.

Rainbow was terrified of telling Applejack about her relationship. When it had come to these kinds of things, Applejack was very protective and could take things to an entirely different level! She couldn’t imagine how Applejack would react when she had told her that she and her older brother had been dating for six months without telling her. Back in October, Applejack seemed pretty understanding and eased Rainbow’s anxiety. However, at that point, the two had only been together for a couple of weeks, and Rainbow wasn’t even sure that the relationship would work out.

Hint: The relationship did work out. It was working out...very well.

Rainbow smiled to herself as she began to think about how the relationship began in the first place.

Over that last summer, Rainbow and Applejack hung out more than usual. Rainbow would come to Sweet Apple Acres almost every other day and helped the Apple family out on the farm, as her mother had recently gotten a new job and was called off to business trips frequently. Rainbow figured that going to Applejack’s would keep her from being bored constantly while stuck inside the house. While she spent more time with Applejack, which was also a good thing, she had begun to spend more time with both of her siblings as well. There, Rainbow had learned more about Applejack’s family, and learned that there were more to them than what she had originally thought.

Rainbow saw that Apple Bloom was more than just a ten year old crazy about movies, but she cared deeply about her friends. She didn’t just like them because they shared the same interests. The young girl had actually looked out for her friends and showed that she wanted the best for them. Throughout the entire month of July, she had overheard Apple Bloom and Scootaloo’s conversations. One day, Scootaloo had went to Apple Bloom to vent about problems at home, and instead of brushing her off like most ten year olds, Apple Bloom comforted Scootaloo and even assured her that there was a guest room in her house that Scootaloo could always stay in when she needed. It was heartwarming to see how close the girls were, and Rainbow gave a lot more respect to Apple Bloom ever since.

Dash had also begun to see a new side to Big Macintosh throughout the summer. Before, Rainbow thought he was too quiet and awkward. She didn’t really think much of him. But as time went on, Rainbow saw that Big Macintosh was passionate about his work on the farm and his loyalty to his family. She noticed that he knew how to say more than just the same two words, and when he talked, he talked about the most interesting and charming things. Rainbow soon found herself drawn to Big Macintosh and his amazing qualities, but at the time she never would have thought that she could possibly have a crush on him!

Somewhere during the month of July, the two began talking more and more, and Rainbow found herself liking her conversations with Big Mac. She felt that she could talk to him for hours on end and that he’d be there to listen to every word. He understood her, and would answer her questions honestly. Rainbow soon began to become much happier with Big Macintosh around her. Whenever she had a crappy day, she’d head over to Sweet Apple Acres and even just his smile would make her heart swell with joy. After a few weeks, Rainbow stopped herself and saw that something was wrong.

She had started her summer off planning to spend more time at Sweet Apple Acres with Applejack. Now, right at the start of August, she found herself walking towards Sweet Apple Acres excited to see Big Macintosh.

At first, Rainbow pushed these feelings away. She was Rainbow Dash for goodness sake! What would happen if she was caught being all hung up over a boy? People would think she changed over the summer, that she had become sappy and mushy. Besides, this is Applejack’s brother! Applejack would kill her if she had even joked about liking her brother. Even if Rainbow wanted to take things further, Applejack wouldn’t allow it.

After deciding to push her feelings away, Rainbow found it harder to talk to Big Macintosh. In the beginning of August, Rainbow couldn’t even bear to look into Big Mac’s eyes. Whenever she did, she found herself lost in the emerald. Her mouth would become dry and words became harder to form. Her heart would begin to beat hard and fast as if she had just ran laps. Her face would feel hot, and she knew she looked as red as the apples on the trees. Dash couldn’t understand what was happening. She’d try to look away from his eyes, and look at his freckles, hair, anywhere else! They all made her feel worse and stutter even more.

Is this what falling in love is like? Why does Rarity like it so much? Wait...I’m not falling in love am I? I can’t be!

This would happen every time the two would make conversation, and they would always end with Rainbow stomping away, her face suffuse with red. She hated this. What happened to the conversations that they were having just a month prior? It was so easy to talk to him, laugh with him, and joke around with him. Now, Rainbow couldn’t even look at Mac without having a mental breakdown. Was it because she was trying to pretend she didn’t like him? If that was the case, pretending only made matters worse! Dash knew she was head over heels for Mac at this point and there was nothing she could do about it. There was too much at stake though, her reputation and her friendship with Applejack! The only way she could stop herself was to stay away from Big Macintosh. Sure, it would hurt to stop talking to him, especially after how they had bonded over the summer, but she had went her whole life without talking to him before. It couldn’t be that hard.

It was halfway through August now, and Rainbow decided to tell Big Macintosh that their little “friendship” had to end, with the most reasonable explanation of course.

That day, Rainbow had made her way over to Sweet Apple Acres as normal and had hung out with Applejack for about an hour or two before Big Macintosh began walking towards her with that stupid, amazing smile on his face.

“Howdy Ms. Dash.” Big Macintosh waved.

Rainbow tried to swallow a lump that was forming in her throat. This wasn’t as hard as she thought it was going to be last night. She had practiced what she was going to say to him the night before, where were the words?!

“Hey, Mac..” Rainbow said nervously.

Big Macintosh seemed to immediately sense that something was wrong. He crossed his arms and looked at her, his green eyes made contact with her magenta ones, and they were filled with a look of compassion and sympathy.

“Are ya okay?” He asked softly.

Rainbow felt as if her eye began twitching, and it probably was. Why was he so nice? They had only really gotten to know each other over the past month or two and he could read her mind as if he had known her for years!

“What’s wrong? Do ya wanna talk? Ah’m right here.” He stepped closer to her.

“I can’t talk to you anymore!” Rainbow snapped.

“What?”

“Us being friends isn’t going to work.”

“Why not? Of course it will, Ms. Dash.”

“Think about this for a second, Mac. You are a senior this year, and I am just a junior! We are barely going to see or talk to each other anyway this year. All this is going to do is drive us apart and we won’t be as close as we are now.”

“Well...Ah agree about the part where we won’t see each other as much but Ms. Dash-”

“See! We are totally on the same page! We weren’t that great of friends before all of this anyway. By the end of the school year, all you are going to be is my friend’s quiet brother. That’s all, nothing more.” Rainbow lied, and saw a flash of hurt in Big Mac’s green eyes.

“That’s all ya think of me?” Big Macintosh asked softly.

“Yes.” Rainbow answered.

The two fell into an awkward silence, and a soft breeze made its way through the air. Big Macintosh’s orange hair was blown slightly towards the direction of the wind as he looked down and put his hands in his pockets.

“Look, Mac. All I’m saying is...we aren’t going to have the same bond next year like we did this year. Maybe this was meant to be just a one time thing and I’m glad we had this chance to talk to each other and have fun. I just want to end things now rather than watch it get torn down later on y’know?” Rainbow lied. She hated every minute of this, but it was for the better.

“Yeah...Ah guess Ah understand..” Big Macintosh said, “Ah kind of have things to finish and Ah think AJ is comin’ back anyway.”

“Ok.” Rainbow muttered. It was the only thing she could say.

“See ya around.” He said before walking off.

Rainbow crossed her arms and leaned on a fence. She kept looking down until she felt Applejack approach her.

“Sorry Ah took so long Sugarcube, those pigs sure are somethin’.” Applejack chuckled.

Rainbow tried and failed to laugh along with Applejack. She felt numb and empty inside, she couldn’t care less about anything at that moment.

“Woah...what happened?” Applejack stepped in front of her friend, concern written all over her face.

Blinking tears away, Rainbow looked up at Applejack and gave a small smile.

“Nothing. Just tired. I was thinking about going home to just take a nap anyway.” Rainbow lied again that day.

“Y’know you can just nap on the couch or in the guest room right?”

“Yeah...but I don’t want to scare Granny while she’s cleaning and she finds this random girl passed out on her furniture.”

“Dash, you’ve been up here all summer. None of us think you’re some ‘random girl’ anymore.”

“Aww,” Rainbow cooed trying to lighten the mood, “AJ doesn’t want her Dashie to leave her.” She said in a tone she’d use on a baby, and pulled Applejack close.

“Aw, shut up you.” Applejack smacked Rainbow only to hear her cackling, “Go and get home! Shoo!”

Rainbow forced out another laugh. “See you tomorrow, Freckles.” she said before darting home.

That day was the first time she had cried in a long time. The minute she had gotten home, she had let her guard down and started sobbing. She thought that pushing Big Mac away would stop her from thinking about him, but now all she had added onto her mind was guilt. She was wrong...so very wrong.

She had thought about Big Mac every day, all the way up to the final day of summer. That evening, Rainbow went out to one of her favorite places to think, a pond that was found far out in Sweet Apple Acres. Rainbow would come there when she needed a break from reality or whenever she was feeling stressed. The soft blowing of the wind and the calm surface of the water always seemed to put Rainbow at ease, and that day was no exception.

On that cool September evening, Rainbow sat close to the pond, her knees were held close to her chest. She closed her eyes as she listened to the sweet sound of silence, and some footsteps heading towards her.

Wait, footsteps?

Rainbow let go of her position and turned to see who was coming towards her. Her heart nearly stopped as she looked right into a pair of green eyes, their face covered with freckles, and short orange hair. It was Big Macintosh, standing there as if he had just stumbled upon her by accident

“How’d you know I was here?” She asked as she returned to her previous position. Rainbow had to pretend as if she didn’t care that he had shown up, even though she was having difficulty keeping her heart beating at a normal rate.

“Ya told me that ya liked comin’ down here at the beginnin’ of summer.” his deep voice came closer to Rainbow, and he held his hand out to help her stand up.

Rainbow took Mac’s hand and stood to face him. She brushed some of her rainbow bangs out of her eyes to see him clearly. The sun was setting and the lighting was beautiful.

“Oh, yeah, right. It’s awesome that you were able to remember.” Rainbow gave a small laugh.

“Look, Ms. Dash, Ah need to talk to ya,” Big Macintosh stared at Rainbow.

Rainbow hated to admit it, but she was scared. What was he going to say? Despite her nervousness, Rainbow kept her cool demeanor and nodded as if it was nothing.

“Ah know that you don’t want to be friends anymore..and Ah respect that...Ah really do,” Big Mac began, “But, at first Ah thought the same way about you, like how you do about me. To me, you were just Applejack’s self-absorbed, egotistical, friend. Ah couldn’t understand why or how she had the patience to put up with ya, but Ah never said anythin’. This summer though...it changed the way Ah saw ya. You aren’t egotistical or self-absorbed, you’re confident. Somethin’ that I could never be. You care about your friends, and you care so much about my sister. You’d do anythin’ for em’. Talkin’ with you this summer made me realize a lot of things. You’re smart, beautiful, loyal, strong, and confident. Ah don’t think Ah’ve ever thought of someone so positive before. And Ah don’t want our friendship to end without you knowin’ this.”

Rainbow could barely speak, but she managed to squeak out two words.

“Knowing what?”

“Ms. Dash...Ah like ya. And I don’t mean friendly. Ah like ya a lot. It’s the only thing that Ah want ya to remember about me...okay?” Big Macintosh kept his distance from Rainbow out of respect, but his eyes reflected how much he cared.

Rainbow’s bottom lip quivered and tears sprang to her eyes. She wouldn’t dare let any fall though, not in front of him. Suddenly, all of her worries about her reputation and Applejack went away. All that mattered at that moment was Big Macintosh. They could have a secret relationship, just until she was ready. She’d tell him all of her worries, and he’d most likely understand. First however, she had to let him know the truth.

She took a deep breath in and took a few steps closer to Macintosh.

“You are such an idiot,” she huffed, looking down.

“Ah’m sorry?” Big Macintosh questioned.

“I like you too. Wasn’t it obvious?” Rainbow’s smile spread wide on her now rosy cheeks.

“Wait, really? Ya like me too?”

“Are you deaf or something? I said yes!”

Out of excitement, Big Macintosh wrapped his arms around the short girl’s hips and twirled her around. Rainbow squealed out of both surprise and happiness. He put her down soon after and looked down in embarrassment.

“Sorry, got a little excited.” he apologized while smiling sheepishly.

Rainbow said nothing as she placed both of her hands on Big Mac’s face and stood on the tip of her toes to kiss Big Macintosh on the lips. The kiss wasn’t very long nor was it too short, but it was enough to prove the couple were finally happy.

After breaking the kiss, Rainbow stared and smiled at Big Macintosh.

“Mac, I have a question.” she said sweetly.

“Yes, darlin?” He smiled down at her, and watched as her face turned crimson as he used the term.

“Can you stop calling me Ms. Dash now?”

Big Macintosh laughed deeply and replied.

“Yeah...yeah I will.”

The two stood there in each other’s embrace, neither of them wanting to let go.

Rainbow snapped out of her thoughts. She probably was smiling like an idiot as people passed by her house. It was just hard to believe that all of that had happened seven months ago. She remembered telling Big Macintosh how she had felt after they had become a couple. It turned out that Big Macintosh was afraid of Applejack’s reaction as well, and he had agreed to wait until they were both ready. However, Rainbow told Applejack that she would let her know, and then didn’t say anything for six months!

If anything, Applejack’s reaction would be even worse than what she thought. Not only was she dating her brother, but on top of that, they’d been dating secretly without her knowing for a whole seven months!

Rainbow sat on her front steps fighting with herself for a good minute, before a familiar face came before her.

“Everythin’ okay?” the deep voice asked, and Rainbow instantly smiled.

“Yep.” she said.

As the face frowned at her, Rainbow rolled her eyes.

“I’m still kind of worried about Applejack, Mac. Now she’s gonna be really mad.” Rainbow pouted.

“Why don’t we go and talk about this over some Chocolate Blazed Cookie Swirl ice cream?” Big Macintosh smirked and helped his girlfriend up.

Rainbow smiled at her boyfriend and took his hand.

“Sure.” Rainbow’s eyes widened for a moment before giving Big Macintosh an evil smirk, “Last one to make it to the ice cream parlor has to pay!” She said before taking off down the street.

Big Macintosh didn’t even try to stop her, but rolled his eyes and laughed as he began to run after his girlfriend.

Author's Note

Long chapter! I know! Also kind of switched roles! Ok bye!

So Very Wrong

Months. Six Months.

Applejack sat on the edge of Rarity’s bed with a frown plastered on her face. She had known that Rainbow and her brother were dating since the beginning of October. It was now March! Neither of the two had come up to tell her the news. Even if she knew, they should have at least told her something, what would happen if she didn’t know? Why didn’t they tell Applejack? Rainbow had promised to tell her, and Applejack would have thought that she’d tell her after another week or two passed.

She was wrong...so very wrong.

Over the past six months, Rainbow became happier and changed even more. At this point, the girls were used to the new Rainbow, and never decided to question her after Applejack confronted her months before.

“Darling!” Rarity sang as she finally came out of her closet.

“I found it!” Rarity held up a plain white T-shirt.

“It took ya a whole ten minutes to find a T-shirt?” Applejack questioned.

“Well...yes. I don’t wear it much.”

“Okay then. What are we going to do with it?”

“We are going to turn it into a unique and stylish top!” Rarity squealed.

Applejack rolled her eyes and smiled as she and Rarity got the materials to transform the t-shirt.

“Darling, is anything on your mind? You look upset.” Rarity started, as she started to cut the shirt in half.

“Nothing really, just thinking about Dash. She’s changed so much this year y’know?” Applejack replied.

“Oh!” Rarity suddenly dropped her scissors, “I know exactly what is going on with her!”

“You do?!” Applejack was stunned. Did Rainbow tell Rarity instead of her?

“Yep! It had taken me awhile to figure it out. I was just as confused and suspicious as you were in the beginning of Rainbow’s changes, but soon, the answer became obvious!”

“Well...spill! Why is Rainbow actin’ so different?” Applejack had to pretend as if she didn’t know.

“You see, Applejack darling. Rainbow just suddenly began to seem happier than usual. She doesn’t snap at Pinkie, Twilight, or me as much. You two haven’t had that many arguments. She just seems overall like a calmer and different person!” Rarity explained.

“Yeah...” Applejack pushed.

“Applejack. Rainbow Dash is in love!” Rarity squealed.

“In love? Rarity, this is Rainbow Dash we are talking about. Are you sure she’d be all giddy and happy over a boy?” Applejack questioned. She felt silly while acting so clueless.

“Well darling, it may seem absurd but I think that it’s the only logical explanation.” Rarity explained, picking up two bottles of glitter and examining them.

“Ah don’t think that Rainbow’s changes lead to her being in love. Not everyone is like you Rare.”

“Applejack, have you ever been in love before?” Rarity put everything in her hands down on the table and stared into Applejack’s green eyes.

“Uh...no not really.”

“Well then how would you know how it can make you feel?”

Applejack stayed silent for a few moments. Rarity walked over towards her bed and sat down. She smiled and her blue eyes shimmered with delight. She played with her curled purple ends and her feel swung back and forth.

“Darling, when you are in love you feel as if you can do anything. Everything suddenly gets so much better because that one person is in your life. Nothing seems to make you upset or ruin anything because all of your thoughts lead you back to that one person that makes everything worth it. It doesn’t matter who it is, but that special someone is perfect in your eyes. They are able to change the way you look at life.” Rarity explained.

“I guess I can see what you’re sayin’. But why exactly do you change so much? What if you and this ‘someone’ have no chance together?” Applejack asked, actually curious.

Rarity frowned and flattened out her purple skirt.

“Darling, do you remember what happened when Blueblood and I broke up after a week of being together?”

“Yeah of course. You cried for days and Sweetie Belle came over complainin’ that ya ate all of the ice cream in the fridge.” Applejack snickered.

“What did you think of me when I was in such a state?” Rarity questioned .

“Well in all honesty, Dash and Ah thought you were jus’ bein’ silly. Just like ya said, y’all had only been together for a week. It didn’t make sense for ya to be so torn up about it.”

“Applejack, I wasn’t upset about the break up.”

Applejack gave Rarity a very unamused look.

“Okay, let me rephrase. I wasn’t entirely upset over the break up. However, I was mostly upset because Blueblood wasn’t who I thought he was. In my head, he was perfect. I looked up to him. He changed me, Applejack. When he had shown his true colors, I was angry at him obviously. But what broke me was the fact that the once perfect man that I had once known and loved was gone in a blink of an eye. He no longer existed. It was like losing a friend.” Rarity looked down.

Applejack suddenly understood. She didn’t know about how Rainbow felt about her brother, but she could tell how her brother felt about Rainbow. When he had come home from his alleged “Senior Club Meetings”, Applejack saw pure happiness and joy in his eyes. He began to smile and talk more. Her brother was very clearly satisfied and happy with his relationship with Rainbow Dash, and as long as he was happy, Applejack was happy.

However, it scared Applejack that Rarity had even suggested anything close to Rainbow being in love or relationship-wise. Was it possible that Rarity knew about it as well? Did Rainbow really tell Rarity?

“Rare,” Applejack started.

“Yes, Applejack?” Rarity responded, getting up from her bed and turning her focus back to the custom T-shirt.

“Let’s say that Dash is in fact in love.”

Rarity gave a hum in response as Applejack continued.

“Do ya have any idea who that person could be? Is she...datin’ that person?” Applejack questioned.

Rarity looked up as if she were thinking hard.

“Honestly, I had been trying to see if I could find any hints or clues. You know, seeing the way she looks at others, her reactions to things.”

“Yeah? Did you find anything?”

“Well...I tried to trick her into telling me but she didn’t say. For a good while I thought that it could have been you or Fluttershy.” Rarity said casually.

Applejack felt her face immediately heat up. Did Rarity just say what she thought she had just said?

“M-me?! Rarity what gave you that idea? N-not that there's anything wrong with that, of course. Flutters too?” Applejack couldn’t even keep her focus on one topic.

“Well darling, I said that I thought. The way she teases you, how she takes you seriously, and don’t forget, you were one of the first people who made her feel welcome here. You were the first person who offered her a real friendship without deceiving her. I would say that you changed her life. If she hadn’t had met you when she moved here all these years ago, she probably wouldn’t have ever spoken to me or Pinkie ever! You gave her the hope and confidence that she still carries with her to this day. I thought that there would be a chance that she’d like you. Of course, I didn’t assume anything.”

Applejack blushed. She knew that Rainbow valued their friendship, but Rarity had just shown her how important that one act of kindness meant to Rainbow.

“O-okay...but where did the Fluttershy assumption come from?”

“Well...almost the same explanation as yours. Fluttershy has been with Rainbow for most of her life as well. Rainbow had told me that she sees Fluttershy as a sister. I see how much Rainbow cares about Fluttershy, and no one can deny how much more careful, patient, and softer Rainbow is when talking with Fluttershy. I’ve even talked to Fluttershy about it. She says that Rainbow always comes to her whenever there is an issue. She told me that she has seen Rainbow cry much more than we ever have.”

Applejack couldn’t imagine it. Rainbow crying? She had only seen Rainbow cry once in the third grade. Sure, she may have come close to crying sometimes, but ever since the two were eight years old, she has never seen a tear slide down Rainbow’s face. Maybe it was possible for Rainbow to catch feelings for one of them.

“Well, Ah guess I can see where you’re comin’ from. But if ya ever find out, ya let me know ya hear?” Applejack said now deciding to at least try and help Rarity with the shirt.

“Of course, darling. You know, I could be wrong. But we’ll never know until we find out.” Rarity smiled as she finally chose some purple glitter.

Applejack let out a small laugh.

Rarity was wrong all right.

So. Very. Wrong.

Author's Note

I know it’s kind of short today but I couldn’t figure out how to keep this conversation going :ajsleepy: . Buuuttttt, The next chapter should be a little bit longer. I will try to work on it this week!

The Plan

Applejack smiled as the warm sun hit her face. The temperature was much warmer than it had been in the previous months, which was expected of the winter season. However, that day was probably the warmest it has been since spring had started.

She sat outside beside an apple tree, listening to the sound of birds chirping and her dog Winona barking at something farther away. For an early Sunday morning, it was actually very nice. She had planned to stick inside of her house for most of the day, but as she took these few moments to herself, she realized that she shouldn’t waste such a beautiful day inside.

Applejack closed her eyes and began to think about what she could do. Her mind traced back to her friend, Rainbow Dash. It had been a few months since the two had hung out together, just the two of them. Maybe she could invite her over. She suddenly remembered the conversation that she had with Rarity the day before. Rarity had told her that she knew what was up with Rainbow, and that she had even tried to trick Rainbow Dash into admitting her secret. Applejack had thought about it for a minute. Would that work? Rarity had tried before, and Rainbow didn’t seem to spill anything. However, Rarity and Applejack were completely different. Applejack knew some ways to talk to her friend and she might be able to have a bit of fun while doing it.

It was perfect! Applejack had wanted to spend time with Rainbow anyway, and while hanging out, she could try to get Rainbow to crack. But, what if she makes the same mistakes Rarity made while talking to her? What mistakes did Rarity even make?

Applejack stood up and dusted off her jeans. She pulled her phone from her pocket and began dialing a number. After a few rings, the person had answered.

“Hello?” the voice greeted.

“Hey Rare, I jus’ needed to ask a quick question.” Applejack smiled as she spoke.

“Go ahead, dear. But would you mind making it brief? I think Sweetie is in my room and who knows what she’s getting into.” Rarity stated worriedly.

“Yeah, o’ course. Remember when ya told me that ya tried to make Rainbow Dash admit she was ‘in love’?” Applejack asked, adding a bit of sarcasm in her tone.

“Yes, what about it?”

“Well...what did you say to her? Did ya get anywhere?”

“It’s Rainbow Dash, darling. Of course I didn’t get anywhere! About a week ago, I randomly brought up Valentine’s Day. I told her how mine went, and how it was terrible not having a Valentine.” Rarity began.

Applejack rolled her eyes at Rarity’s beginning. Rarity had already set herself up for failure with that topic.

“Go on,” Applejack pushed.

“I asked how her Valentine’s Day went, and she told me that she didn’t care about not having a Valentine. So, I asked her if she ever had her eyes on someone. She told me to stop talking about ‘sappy’ things and changed the subject.” Rarity finished bitterly.

Applejack’s eyebrow raised at that slight bit of information.

“Well...alright then. Do ya think if Ah try somethin’ like that today, it’ll work?”

“It depends on how you bring it up,” Rarity replied. Applejack then heard a large thud coming from the other line.

“Well, Applejack I hope that I helped, but I really must go! SWEETIE BELLE STOP IT THIS INSTANT! Goodbye!” Rarity quickly rushed and hung up the phone.

Applejack chuckled as she began dialing Rainbow’s number onto her phone next. She was going to invite her to the farm.

“Yello?” a high-pitched, bubbly voice rang on the underline.

Confused, Applejack checked to see if she had the right number. It was Rainbow Dash’s number.

“Pinkie Pie?”

“That’s me!” Pinkie giggled.

“Okay…” Applejack started, “Why exactly do ya have RD’s phone?”

“Oh! Rainbow was just at Sugarcube Corner with me.” Pinkie explained.

“Doesn’t Sugarcube Corner open at noon on Sundays?”

“We were finishing up a chemistry project together! It was a teensy weensy bit messy, but we cleaned it all up!” Pinkie nearly screamed into the phone, making Applejack wince.

“Alright, but that doesn’t explain why ya have Rainbow’s phone.” Applejack rolled her eyes.

“Rainbow just left!” Pinkie stated.

Applejack was getting angry going back and forth with her pink and energetic friend.

“Okay. But why do you have her phone?” Applejack asked for what she hoped would be the final time.

“Oh...she left it by accident.”

Applejack pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed. All of that trouble for such a simple answer.

“Okay...do ya know where she went? Is she gonna come back to get it? Ah kinda need to talk to her.”

“Um...Dashie told me something about practicing soccer at the park. She probably won’t notice that it’s gone. I was actually about to go and call her to let her know that I have her phone!” Pinkie explained.

Applejack paused for a moment listening to Pinkie’s last sentence.

“Pinkie.”

“Yes, Jackie?”

“How are you gonna call Dash?”

“Um...dialing her number and wait for her to answer...duh!” Pinkie began laughing, “You’re so silly, Jackie.”

“Okay but...nevermind.” Applejack sighed. Sometimes there was no point in trying to argue or explain things to Pinkie Pie.

On the other line, Applejack heard the bell on Sugarcube Corner’s door, signalling that someone had just walked in.

“Oh, hi Dashie!” Pinkie greeted after a few moments.

“Hey Pinks, I think I might’ve left my- why are you on my phone?” Applejack heard a familiar raspy voice near Pinkie Pie.

“Oh, just talking to Jackie!” Pinkie replied.

“Did you call her?” Rainbow asked.

“No..she called me!”

“You mean she called me.”

“Oh, right!” Pinkie giggled again.

“Is she still on the phone?” Rainbow asked, her voice getting closer.

“Hold on, let me check!” Pinkie started before yelling, “Jackie, are you still there?!”

Applejack winced and moved the phone away from her ear.

“Yes, Pinkie Ah’m here.” Applejack frowned.

“Yep!” Pinkie confirmed to Rainbow.

Rainbow laughed slightly. Applejack could imagine the smirk on her face.

“Okay, Pinks. Thanks for holding onto my phone I guess. I’m gonna start heading out now.” Applejack heard Rainbow say.

Applejack let the girls say their goodbyes and Rainbow’s voice seemed to become much clearer than before. She heard the sound of the bell ring again before hearing Rainbow’s voice.

“Hey, AJ. Sorry about that.” she said sheepishly.

“Don’t ya worry none, I jus’ wanted to ask ya somethin” Applejack said. She was relieved to finally be able to talk to Rainbow after all of this time.

“Okay, shoot.” came the reply.

“Are ya busy today? Ah was wonderin’ if ya wanted to come over and hang out for a while.” Applejack asked.

“Is that a date, AJ?” Applejack could see Rainbow’s evil grin as she said that.

“No ya dummy!” Applejack yelled, flustered. After Rarity’s accusation yesterday, Applejack couldn’t take those kinds of jokes. She listened to Rainbow’s cackling for a moment.

After she seemed to calm down, Rainbow began talking again.

“Yeah, sure. What time should I be over?”

“Whenever ya want.”

“Alright, just give me maybe twenty minutes okay?” Rainbow said.

“Yeah, sure. See ya then.” Applejack said before hanging up.

She leaned against the bark of the apple tree once again, going back to what she was doing before she had contacted her friends. As she closed her eyes, she felt calm and at ease. Autumn was her favorite season, for many reasons, but spring would probably be a close second. The weather, the animals, the temperature. Everything seemed perfect. Applejack must have almost fallen asleep, because it wasn’t long before she heard something.

“This is nice isn’t it?” a voice cracked, causing Applejack to open her eyes and look beside her.

There, Rainbow was sitting in the same position she was in, against the tree. She didn’t look at Applejack as she spoke, and her magenta eyes seemed to be staring at the sky. She was dressed in some jeans and a striped t-shirt that would make Rarity screech in disgust, but it somehow managed to look just fine on her. Her prismatic hair laid flat below her shoulders as always. However, it was her sudden appearance that surprised Applejack.

She jumped and yelped as Rainbow looked at her friend. She expected to hear a laugh but the sound never came.

“Y’know ya could’ve told me you were here.” Applejack said as she calmed down.

“You looked calm.” was Rainbow’s only response.

Applejack looked at her friend. She seemed calm as well. Applejack knew that Rainbow liked to sit and have those moments like her, but it was rare to actually see her in a state like that. The young athlete sat down with one leg bent towards her, and her arm rested on her knee. She looked around the apple field with her mouth forming a flat line. Her magenta eyes looked into Applejack’s green ones and she gave a small smile. Her calm state reminded that of her brother. She had truly changed these past few months.

“So, is there anything you needed me for?” Rainbow asked cooly.

“Oh...uh. No, not really. Jus’ wanted to hang out with ya for a bit, we haven’t done this in a while.” Applejack told her.

Rainbow gave a slight smile back.

“Yeah I see what you mean,” Rainbow said standing up and stretching a little, “So what do you wanna do Freckles?”

“We can head to the barn an’ have some cider if ya want.” Applejack suggested.

“Sounds cool.” Rainbow agreed, a smile forming on her face. Applejack already knew what that smile meant.

“I’ll race you.” Rainbow said.

“Dash, really?”

“What? Are you scared I might beat you?”

“O’ course not!”

“Okay then, let’s go Apples.”

“You’re on, jus’ don’t get mad when ya lose.”

Rainbow let out a laugh, “In your dreams, cowgirl.”

The girls prepared themselves as Rainbow Dash counted down. Both girls sprinted into the barn so fast, neither of them could tell who was winning. They both seemed to enter the barn at the same time.

“See, what did I tell ya? I won!” Applejack said with a smug smile.

“Okay I totally came in here before you!” Rainbow argued.

“Ya don’t think it was another tie do ya?”

“It can’t be!” Rainbow groaned, “Honestly what is it going to take for me to prove that I’m the better athlete?”

Applejack rolled her eyes and smiled. She had managed to pick up a few bottles of cider and passed one to Rainbow Dash.

“Shut up and take your cider.” she said and Rainbow grinned and sat down on a bale of hay.

The pair chatted and laughed for a bit before Applejack decided that it was time to start her plan.

“So, Rainbow,” Applejack started. Rainbow looked and gave a hum in response.

“I’ve been thinkin’. We’re seventeen years old now. Fluttershy has tried it, Rarity has tried it, Sunset, Twi, heck even Pinkie has tried it!” Applejack explained.

“Tried what?” Rainbow questioned before taking a sip of her cider.

“We should try datin’ someone soon.” Applejack said while smiling.

She watched as Rainbow choked on her drink and began coughing and turning red.

“Say that again?” Rainbow’s voice cracked after she had her coughing fit.

“Ah’m jus’ sayin’. Neither of us had tried datin’ someone before.” Applejack started, “Do ya like anyone?”

“Well...romantically...no not really. You know I don’t care about that kind of stuff.” Rainbow brushed her off.

“What about that Soarin guy? You wouldn’t stop talkin’ about him back in seventh grade.” Applejack laughed.

“Hey! He doesn’t count. He is in the Wonderbolts...the most iconic soccer team of all time! He was personally trained by the Spitfire! He’s amazing in like- every way possible!” Rainbow explained.

“Yeah...but you don’t like anyone.” Applejack frowned a bit and her tone was flat.

“Nope! What about you Crapplejack? You like anyone?”

“Not at all..”

“Then why did you bring this up?!”

“Because, Rarity’s been buggin’ me about it lately. My brother doesn’t seem to complain about bein’ single.” Applejack slowly brought her brother into the conversation.

“That’s true. Speaking of your brother, how is the stud?” Rainbow’s eyes quickly filled with fear and Applejack’s eyes widened at the nickname. She watched Rainbow’s face turn red quickly.

“Stud?” Applejack raised an eyebrow and tried not to smile.

“I-I meant...um..” Rainbow struggled to create an excuse.

Applejack couldn’t hold it in any longer. She doubled over in laughter as Rainbow glared at her. She wiped away some tears as she looked at Rainbow.

“Y-You like my brother!” Applejack said before laughing again.

“No I don’t!” Rainbow stammered.

“Okay then where did stud come from?”

“It was an inside joke we had over the summer that’s it!” Rainbow lied.

“Ok..sure,” Applejack sat back again, “Maybe we could find my brother someone while we are lookin’.”

Rainbow instantly stiffened.

“Who said I was agreeing to us finding a date?”

“Okay...but now I’m thinkin’ about findin’ someone for Mac.” Applejack couldn’t wait for her reaction.

“Like who?” Rainbow seemed interested.

“Maybe Fluttershy? I’ve seen him starin’ at her in the halls a couple of times here and there.”

Rainbow gulped and her grip on the bottle she was holding became tight.

“He has?” she asked.

Not wanting to create a problem, Applejack looked down and talked more.

“Yeah, but I don’t think he likes her. Probably not a good idea to put two quiet people together anyway.”

“I see what you mean…” Rainbow looked down as well.

“He wouldn’t survive bein’ in a relationship with Pinkie. I don’t see him n’ Rarity lastin’ too long either.” Applejack went down the list of her friends.

“Twilight and Mac could be a good match!” Applejack pretended to act as if she had a good idea.

“Wait, why?” Rainbow sat up again.

“Well...Ah don’t see any problems that would happen to between the two.”

Rainbow looked as if she were about to object, but then closed her mouth.

“I don’t either.” Rainbow said as she sat back, frowning.

“If Mac ever got with ya, Ah’d think you’d drive him up the wall.” Applejack started.

“Really?” Rainbow questioned, her brows furrowed.

Applejack sat back down next to Rainbow.

“You’re always talkin’ about yourself, always darin’ people to do things, must Ah go on?” Applejack drawled. She knew she could be blunt with Rainbow.

“Well I don’t think I’d be annoying enough to not get a boyfriend.” Rainbow grumbled.

“Ah didn’t say that, Sugarcube. Ah just can’t imagine you and my brother together that’s all.” Applejack softened.

“Well maybe even the impossible can work out. But of course, you wouldn’t know anything.” Rainbow snapped, and immediately regretted it. Her hard gaze softened and her expression turned into one of guilt.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to get mad at you.” she said while looking away.

“It’s okay..” Applejack replied.

“Why’d you bring this up, anyway? Rarity just asked me the exact same thing not that long ago.” Rainbow started up again.

Applejack didn’t know what to say. She didn’t expect Rainbow to get suspicious! She looked as Rainbow stared at her. She moved her colorful bangs out of her face and waited for an answer.

“Well...Rare brought it up to me yesterday, and unlike you, it got me thinkin’ is all.” Applejack lied.

“Applejack,” Rainbow started. Applejack was already dreading what she’d say next as Rainbow used her full name. Rainbow was always calling her by her many nicknames, and only used her full one when she was serious.

“Applejack? Did you even hear what I said?” Rainbow snapped her fingers in Applejack’s face.

“Oh..no. Sorry.” Applejack said, feeling her face heat up in embarrassment.

“I told you that you were a bad liar, and that you can just tell me what’s up.” Rainbow rolled her eyes.

Applejack sighed.

“Okay fine. Ya know how we’ve all been noticin’ how you’ve been actin’ different this year?”

Rainbow groaned, “You’re still on this?”

“Wait! Listen. Ah’ve been thinkin’ lately that it’s possible you could be in love…”

“Applejack-”

“Don’t you lie to me. You don’t have to tell me who it is, just tell me if Ah’m wrong or not.”

“Yes.” Rainbow stated, her eyes closed as she gave her answer as quick as possible.

Applejack groaned and sighed.

“Rainbow, Ah just told ya not to lie- wait did you say yes?”

“Yep..” Rainbow stood up and put her hands in her pocket.

“Wow. Okay then, like Ah told ya, ya don’t have to tell me who-”

“Your brother.” Rainbow winced.

“W-what?” Applejack was stunned. Did Rainbow just admit it?

“Yeah...I like your brother. Please don’t kill me.”

“Ah’m not gonna kill ya...but can ya tell me why?” Applejack was still shocked at how easy it was to get the answer she had been waiting for for months. Well, part of the answer. Applejack knew that the two were in a relationship, and Rainbow didn’t say anything close to that yet.

Rainbow Dash sat down again and started playing with her fingers. Her face became red once again.

“I mean...over the summer. I started seeing the real Big Mac, I guess. He’s funny, sweet, caring. He listens to me. It takes me a while to trust someone, and you of all people should know, but he...he just made me feel as if I could trust him with anything since day one. It started out with us joking around here and there, but when we started having actual real conversations and I found myself talking to him for like, thirty minutes straight.”

Rainbow smiled as she spoke, her eyes shimmering.

“Then, there was this one day I was just out of it. I ended up venting to him about everything. How crappy I felt, then I went on about my insecurities and all that mushy crap. And you know what he told me?”

Applejack stared at Rainbow, “What did he tell you?”

“He cut me off...and he told me that there was nothing wrong with me. That everyone had flaws and that it was natural. He is the first person I’ve been able to trust in years, AJ. Your brother makes me so happy. I know I sound sappy and weird, but it’s the truth.”

Rainbow finished and there were visible tears welling up in her eyes. She groaned and aggressively wiped at her eyes.

“Ah..sorry.” she hissed and cursed at herself.

“No...don’t be.” Applejack said, smiling a little. Rainbow was truly in love with her older brother, and there didn’t seem to be any problem with it.

“Well...why don’t ya go ask him out?” Applejack asked.

“You’re okay with it?”

“Well…”

Rainbow looked down in disappointment.

“It’d be weird, but Ah think I’d be okay with it. As long as ya don’t go breakin’ his heart or anythin’ like that. Ah can tell he likes ya too Dash. And as long as y’all are happy, Ah’m happy.” Applejack smiled at her.

“You know how long I’ve put off trying to tell you that?” Rainbow smirked.

“Yeah...Ah know. But if ya listened to be back in the beginning, Ah told ya that Ah’m not gonna get rid of ya that easy. Ah love ya, Dash. Ah can’t be mad at ya because ya found love. Ya don’t choose who ya fall in love with. Ah don’t care who the person is, as long as they aren’t bad o’ course. But Ah will never hate ya because you and my brother are an item...you got that?” Applejack placed her hand on Rainbow’s shoulder.

Rainbow’s bottom lip quivered a bit before she punched Applejack in the shoulder.

“Thanks, doofus.” she said, smiling, similar to what they had done months before.

Applejack pulled Rainbow in for a side hug and smiled back.

“Anytime, ya big dummy.”

Sure, Applejack still had to get Rainbow to admit that the two were dating, but she had gotten Rainbow to admit that there was something going on. She heard Rainbow sniff and was about to say something before the barn door creaked open. Big Macintosh walked in and saw the girls hugging. His eyes laid on Rainbow’s damp eyes and immediately became concerned, but tried to hide it.

“Everythin’ alright?” He asked casually, still keeping his eye on Rainbow Dash.

“Yeah, everythin’ is fine, Mac.” Applejack answered.

“Are ya sure, Miss Dash?” Big Mac asked.

“Yeah, Mac.” Rainbow smiled at Big Macintosh, and received a smile in return.

“Okay then, jus’ checkin’ in.” Big Macintosh said before he left.

Author's Note

Ok...I know this chapter had an aprupt end, but it’s only so I can pick up correctly in the next chapter!

This story is growing so fast! It’s the most well-recieved story that I have on this site so far, and I’m very happy. Thank you!!

The Secret Is Out

Dash watched Big Macintosh exit the barn with a smile on her face, The sound of the door closing softly was the only other sound made in the small barn. Next to her, Applejack stood up and grabbed a bucket.

“Ah’m about ta go an’ tend the horses. Ya comin’ or are ya gonna stay there and daydream about my brother?” she said, her mouth forming an evil smirk.

Rainbow felt her cheeks heat up immediately and crossed her arms before standing up herself.

“Yeah, yeah I’m coming.” she grumbled.

Applejack chuckled a bit before saying, “Alright then, Ah’m gonna need ya to get me one of them brushes up there so Ah can help their manes. Can ya hand it to me?”

“Yeah.” Rainbow replied without hesitation and turned around to find one of the brushes sitting on a high shelf. She walked over to it and stood on the tip of her toes desperately trying to reach the object. She strained and waved her hand and groaned as the tip of her fingers barely touched the brush. She stopped after hearing Applejack’s laughter. Turning around, Rainbow narrowed her eyes at Applejack, who was now bent over holding her knees. Rainbow watched as Applejack’s smile spread over her freckles and she wiped a tear from her green eyes.

“What’s the matter, Dash?” She asked with a sly smirk.

Rainbow grumbled something from under her breath.

“Ah’m sorry, Ah didn’t quite catch that.” Applejack tried to say while laughing.

“I said I can’t reach it…” Rainbow pouted while crossing her arms. With that, Applejack burst into laughter once again, and she walked over to grab the brush herself, without as much trouble as Rainbow had.

“Aw, don’t look at me like that. Ya know Ah’m just playin’ with ya.” Applejack told the shorter girl.

“Yeah, yeah. Whatever, let’s just go.” Rainbow opened the barn door only to meet face to face with Big Macintosh once again.

“Uh...AJ. Ya think Ah can borrow her for a second?” the older farmer asked, scratching the back of his head awkwardly.

Rainbow watched as another smile crept onto Applejack’s tanned face.

“O’ course. Ah’ll be in the stable if ya need me Dash.” Applejack said as she walked past her brother and closed the door.
The two stood in silence for a moment before Rainbow looked up.

“So, what’s up?” she asked her boyfriend.

“Ah just wanted to make sure you were okay. Ah didn’t know ya were coming and Ah saw you were cryin’ a bit a minute ago.”

Rainbow looked up at Big Macintosh and failed to stop a goofy smile appearing on her face. She found herself lucky to have such a caring boyfriend. He looked and took note of even the smallest things. She tried to remain cool and tried to stop smiling for a moment.

“Hey. I wasn’t crying.” Rainbow crossed her arms.

“Sure you weren’t.” Big Macintosh playfully rolled his eyes. He then walked over to the bale of hay Applejack and Rainbow Dash had just been sitting on and plopped down. He connected another bale of hay to his and used his hand to wave his girlfriend over.

Rainbow walked over to Big Macintosh and placed her head on his lap and extended the rest of her body out on the bale of hay. She looked up at him and stared into his deep green eyes. She admired his freckles as she folded her hands on her stomach.

Mac looked down at Rainbow and looked stern into her own magenta eyes.

“Ya sure nothin’s wrong?” he asked sincerely.

“I’m positive…” Rainbow yawned, suddenly feeling exhausted. She avoided Big Macintosh’s gaze.

“Tired?” Mac asked while smiling.

“A little. I’ve been up since two in the morning.” Rainbow said and instantly wished she could have taken that last part back.

“Doin’ what?” Mac suddenly became concerned.

“Thinking…”

“Well it had to be somethin’ serious if it kept ya up that long.”

“Mac…” Rainbow sighed.

“Ah don’t want ya to feel like you can’t trust me. Ah’m here Dash, Ah always am. You can talk to me if ya need to.” Big Mac stared down at Rainbow.

“Its just...we’ve already talked about this before. Like a bajillion times.” the young athlete started.

“We can talk about it a bajillion more times if it helps ya…”

Rainbow smiled, “I just told AJ about us.”

Big Macintosh looked shocked almost.

“Ya did?”

“Well...kind of. She thinks I just have a thing for you.”

“But you do.”

Rainbow sat up for a moment before continuing.

“Yeah but I didn’t tell her that we have been dating. Forget the fact that it’s been almost a year! You were right, Mac. We should have told her back in the beginning. She’s fine with the idea of us as a couple, but do you know what she could do if she finds out I’ve been lying to her this entire time?! What if she hates me?! What if it destroys what we have?! I don’t want to lose either of you and now I just might because I was too scared to do it in the first place.”

At this point, Rainbow had paced around the room several times before leaning against the wall and sliding down slowly.

“I’m so pathetic..” she whined.

Big Macintosh looked upset hearing Rainbow. He got up and walked over to her, and sat down next to her.

“Hey now...this ain’t the Rainbow Dash Ah know,” he used his hand to prop Rainbow’s chin up to face him, “Sure, maybe we should have told her about us a long while ago, but you just said yourself that she would be supportive of the two of us. Ah don’t think she’s gonna let a little anger get between your friendship-”

“But it has..” Rainbow cut him off, referring to Sunset’s damage years prior.

“Ah know, darlin’. But that was before Miss Twilight showed y’all the value and meanin’ of friendship. Y’all are closer than ever before...AJ wouldn’t wanna mess that up again. Ah wouldn’t let anything come between us either. You are not pathetic, you’re Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash is confident, strong, and can’t always be perfect. Ah’m not gonna lie and tell ya that AJ isn’t gonna be mad, but Ah will say that she wouldn’t hate ya.”

Rainbow leaned her head on Mac’s shoulder and closed her eyes.

“I think we should tell her.” Rainbow said suddenly.

“Ya sure you’re ready?”

Rainbow nodded and fell silent, signaling that she was beginning to fall asleep.

After a few moments of silence, Rainbow spoke up.

“Mac?” she said sleepily.

“Yes, darlin’?”

“I love you…”

Big Mac’s face immediately heated up and his eyes widened. He looked down at his half-asleep girlfriend in shock. It was the first time in all of their months of dating that those words were said.

Rainbow must have felt Big Macintosh stiffen because she spoke up again.

“What? Mad ‘cause I said it first?” she said softly and giggled.

Big Macintosh laughed before wrapping his arms around Rainbow tightly and kissed the top of her head.

“Ah love ya too, darlin’. Ah love ya too.” was all he said as Rainbow drifted off with a large grin on her face.

Rainbow felt something lightly pushing on her shoulder. Slowly, she opened her eyes and found herself laying on Big Macintosh, who was still on the floor. She must have fallen asleep. Dash sat up slightly so she could look at her boyfriend, who gave her a small smile.

“How long was I out for?” she asked groggily and tucked some of her prismatic hair behind her ear.

“‘Bout an hour or two.” he said.

“And you just sat there?!” Rainbow’s eyes widened.

“Eeyup.”

“Did Applejack see us? Oh God.” Rainbow frowned.

“Yeah, Ah saw y’all.” a familiar voice said from across the room.

Rainbow’s head spun in horror to find Applejack smiling at her while fixing up some equipment. Rainbow felt her face heat up immediately and she covered her face with her hands.

“Ah walked in about fifteen minutes after Big Mac asked to speak to ya. The two of ya were on the floor cuddlin’ and ya were sleepin’ like a baby,” Applejack started and walked over to the two of them, “Ah didn’t wanna wake ya up. But Mac said ya wanted to talk to me?”

Rainbow looked at Mac with a worried expression on her face.

“We don’t have to if ya don’t want to.” Big Macintosh started, placing his hand on top of hers.

“No. We have to.” Rainbow said firmly and stared at Applejack. She stood up and helped the young farmer up as well. They held each other's hands as Rainbow sighed.

“You know how I just told you I kind of have the hots for your brother?” she asked Applejack.

“Yeah…” Applejack raised an eyebrow, “Did ya tell him? Ah told ya he liked ya back!” She smiled happily and punched Rainbow’s shoulder.

“Heh..” Rainbow laughed nervously, “Yeah..he likes me back alright.”

Applejack’s smile slowly disappeared as she looked at her brother’s face turn into one of worry as well.

“What’s goin’ on?” Applejack crossed her arms.

Rainbow bit her lip and finally blurted it out.

“Your brother and I have kind of already been dating..” she clutched Big Mac’s hands tight.

“Oh is that all? How long?” Applejack smiled once again. Rainbow could tell that Applejack had thought that the two had just started in their relationship.

“Um...seven months?” Rainbow flinched, shut her eyes tight, and expected the worst to come. She waited to hear Applejack gasp or scream in shock. She waited to hear her scream at her brother. She waited to see an angry face. However, when Rainbow heard nothing, she opened her eyes and saw a smug smile on Applejack’s face.

“Wait..did I miss anything?” Rainbow asked, and looked at Big Mac, who also looked confused.

“Ah know..” Applejack smiled.

Rainbow had to make sure she heard that correctly. She froze and her brows furrowed as she stared at Applejack.

“Ah’m sorry, what?” Big Macintosh asked.

“What do you mean you know?” Rainbow asked suspiciously.

“Ah knew since October.” Applejack stated simply.

“What?!” Rainbow’s voice cracked and she looked angry.

“How did ya find out?” Big Macintosh asked scratching the back of his head. He seemed to be a lot calmer than Dash.

“Well...at the beginnin’ of the year Ah kind of yelled at Dash about how she was actin’ different.” Applejack started.

“Mhmm…” Rainbow crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes.

“And Ah went to go apologize to her and ended up takin’ her soccer ball by accident. By the time Ah came back to give it to her the both of ya were smoochin’.” Applejack explained, still wearing a smile on her face.

Rainbow on the other hand was glaring at Applejack, gritting her teeth.

“So you’re telling me...you knew this entire time...and you didn’t say anything?” Rainbow asked through clenched teeth.

“Ah was waitin’ for y’all to tell me. Don’t you get mad at me.” Applejack narrowed her eyes at the young athlete.

With that, Rainbow seemed to ease up a bit. She took a deep breath in and blew it out as she closed her eyes.

“Yeah...about that. I was scared to see how you’d react.” she looked down.

Rainbow watched Applejack’s green eyes widen.

“Didn’t Ah tell ya from the beginnin’ that Ah would never end our friendship over somethin’ like this?” she snapped.

“Well..Mac and I were going to tell you we swear. But after a few weeks, then months, I got scared that you’d be mad that we didn’t tell you sooner.” Rainbow confessed.

“So the logical thing to do was to wait longer?” Applejack deadpanned.

“Well...yeah?” Rainbow Dash put her head down and her colorful bangs covered her face.

Big Macintosh was silent and didn’t say much, which was normal for him.

“Are ya mad, AJ?” his deep voice quivered, causing Rainbow to glance at him for a moment.

Applejack scoffed, “O’ course I am. Ah’ve been waitin’ for y’all to tell me for the longest.”

The couple hung their heads in shame and fear. Applejack’s hard gaze softened.

“But Ah’m happy for the two of ya. Mac, this is the happiest Ah’ve seen Rainbow in all my years of knowin’ her,” she praised and smiled as her brother looked up at her with a small smile, “And Rainbow, my brother is startin’ to open up and talk a lil’ more thanks to ya.”

Rainbow sighed in relief and leaned against Big Macintosh. This had gone much better than expected and it felt as if a huge weight had been lifted off of her shoulders.

“Have ya told the other girls yet?” Applejack was curious.

Rainbow looked up at her friend.

“Actually, no.” Rainbow answered sheepishly.

“Well maybe we should tell em’ tomorrow. They are suspicious too y’know.” Applejack suggested.

“Good idea.”

Big Macintosh looked outside and saw that the sun was beginning to set. He glanced at Rainbow and spoke up for the first time in a few minutes.

“It’s gettin’ late, darlin’. Ya still look tired. Maybe it’s time for ya to get home…” he insisted.

Rainbow glanced at the window and saw for herself.

“Yeah...I guess you’re right.” she yawned.

“Ya need a ride home?”

“I mean, if it isn’t too much trouble. I can just call my mom if anything.”

“Ah wouldn’t want your ma comin’ all the way over here for somethin’ Ah could have done myself. Besides, didn’t you tell me your mom was wonderin’ about me?”

“Hold on, Mac. Ya met her mom?” Applejack broke in.

“Yeah...a few times actually.” Rainbow chuckled lightly.

“And she knows that the two o’ ya are datin’?” Applejack waved her finger at the couple.

“Oh, yeah, she can’t get enough of the stud.” Rainbow cooed and hooked her arm around her boyfriend’s, to which Big Macintosh’s face reddened.

“So are you taking me home or what?” Rainbow asked suddenly.

“Uh..yeah. Whenever you’re ready.” Mac nodded, “Ah’ll go get my keys.” he stated before leaving.

The only two left in the barn were Applejack and Rainbow.

“So...you’re sure you’re fine with us dating?” Rainbow worried.

“Dang nabbit Rainbow, yes!” Applejack howled, “Stop worryin’ girl!”

“Just asking.” Rainbow beamed.

Mac then opened the door and gestured that he was ready.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, AJ.” Rainbow suddenly hugged Applejack, which surprised her. Rainbow rarely showed any signs of affection like that, but Applejack hugged back anyway.

“Alright shorty, git outta here.” Applejack chuckled and watched as Rainbow and Big Mac entered his car and drove off.

“What’s the big news, Dashie? Ooh! Let me guess! Did you make the Wonderbolts team? Are the Wondercolts going to make the championships? Did you pass your finals?” Pinkie Pie jumped around the horse statue as she rambled. Suddenly she gasped dramatically, pulling on her hair.

“Are you pregnant?!” she whispered.

“Pinkie! NO!” Rainbow shrieked.

The girls were gathered in their usual spot at Canterlot High on that Monday morning. Rainbow had texted her friends the night before that she had some news to tell her friends, and it was clear that everyone, except Applejack, was eager to find out what Rainbow had to tell.

Applejack and Sunset Shimmer laughed at Rainbow’s reaction to Pinkie’s guess.

“Pinkie...maybe we should let her tell us.” Sunset said through her giggles.

“Okie Dokie Lokie! But was I close?” Pinkie questioned, her pink hair bouncing.

“No.” Rainbow grimaced. Her face red.

“Better not be..” Applejack muttered, earning a glare from Rainbow Dash.

“Well Darling, don’t keep us waiting! Do tell!” Rarity begged.

Rainbow gave a slight smile and began to play with the tips of her hair, which was a habit she developed when she was nervous. She looked at her friend’s expecting faces.

Twilight and Fluttershy had warm smiles, Rarity and Pinkie Pie were trying to keep their excitement calm, and Sunset and Applejack crossed their arms. Rainbow took a deep breath and started speaking.

“So...I may or may not be dating someon-”

Rainbow was interrupted by Rarity who squealed and hugged Rainbow tightly.

“I KNEW IT!!!!” Rarity screamed and giggled, causing Rainbow to flinch.

“Oh Rainbow, I’m so happy for you!” Fluttershy cheered softly.

“Is it Thunderlane? You two have been speaking a lot lately. Oh please tell me it’s Thunderlane!” Rarity rambled.

“I ship it!” Pinkie added.

Twilight giggled, “How long have you been in a relationship Rainbow?”

“Almost a year…” Rainbow muttered.

“Really?” Sunset’s eyes widened.

“Since September..”

“Wow..” Sunset uttered.

“So..who is it?!” Rarity urged.

Rainbow watched closely to see her friends’ reactions when she had told them.

“Big Macintosh.”

Rainbow heard Rarity and Pinkie gasp out of shock, Sunset and Twilight looked surprised, and was that a flash of disappointment in Fluttershy’s eyes? Rainbow would have to ask about that later.

“I would have never guessed. Darling, I’m so happy!!” Rarity squealed.

“I ship this couple more!” Pinkie hollered.

“That’s...interesting.” Twilight stated.

“Yeah...I’m surprised Applejack hasn’t killed you yet.” Sunset smirked.

“Ah knew for a while, but Ah’m fine with it.” Applejack smiled.

“That’s good...but Dash, why did you wait so long?” Twilight asked innocently.

“I kind of chickened out when it came to telling AJ about us..” Rainbow answered, her face reddening again.

Suddenly, the bell from inside the building rang and students began to file into the school, heading into their classes. The girls exchanged their goodbyes and began to depart until lunch, however, Rainbow grabbed Fluttershy by the arm.

“Hey, Shy. Are you alright?” she asked, concerned.

Fluttershy turned at looked at her childhood friend with a large smile on her face.

“Of course, Rainbow. Why would anything be wrong?” she blinked her teal eyes innocently.

“You were kind of quiet back there...I just wanted to make sure.”

“Dashie, I’m always quiet.” Fluttershy giggled, and Rainbow could tell that it was clearly forced.

“Shy...talk to me.” Rainbow pleaded.

Fluttershy looked down for a moment with a frown on her face before giving Rainbow a sad smile.

“I’m okay, Dashie. Don’t worry. I have to go to class okay?” she said before hugging her friend and walking away.

“Yeah..okay.” Rainbow said with a frown.

Rainbow walked into her first period class and sat next to Applejack. She rested her head on her hand as she barely listened to the teacher. She hated it when she knew that Fluttershy was upset and she wouldn’t tell her. She was supposed to help her and protect her. It hurt when it seemed like Fluttershy couldn’t trust her.

“You okay?” Applejack whispered next to her, snapping Dash out of her thoughts.

“I’m fine..” Rainbow whispered back.

Author's Note

Yay! Another Chapter! Even though the secret is out, I still have some things planned for this story. Why do you think Shy’s upset??

What's Wrong?

Dash stepped out of the locker rooms of Canterlot High with a smile on her face. With the weather improving, Rainbow was able to practice all of her sports much more than before. It was almost five o’clock, and Rainbow tightened her ponytail and grabbed her bright red backpack. She would normally head home after practicing on days such as this, but Dash had a particular person on her mind.

The young athlete was still concerned for her friend Fluttershy. Ever since Rainbow had revealed that she had been dating Big Macintosh, Fluttershy had been acting weirder than usual. The quiet teen was normally silent and stayed out of most conversations, but Rainbow kept her eye on Fluttershy’s pained expression whenever she turned around, thinking that Rainbow hadn't seen. Something or someone was bothering Fluttershy, and Rainbow was going to find out.

She pulled her phone out of her bookbag and began to text Sunset. She was the only one to walk home with Fluttershy most of the week.

Hey Shim, did you walk home with Fluttershy today??

Rainbow waited to see the small thought bubbles at the bottom of the screen to know that Sunset was beginning to reply.

Actually no...I started walking where we usually meet and I saw her speeding off across the street without me. I don't know if it was just me, but she seemed a little off today.

Rainbow read Sunset’s reply and frowned. She began typing while walking down the street.

Yeah, I saw that too. I'm about to go and head over to her house and find out what's wrong. Thanks.

She watched as Sunset began to type again.

Anytime, Dash. Let me know if anything's up okay??

Before placing her phone back into her backpack, Rainbow gave Sunset a quick thumbs up. Dash gripped tightly on her bag and began sprinting down the street, as quickly as she could, until she found herself staring at a familiar small house at the end of a quiet street. Rainbow strolled up to the red wooden door and knocked a few times and waited patiently.

After a few moments, Rainbow heard footsteps from behind the closed door and it soon opened to reveal a middle-aged woman with short dark velvet hair and light yellow skin. The woman smiled sweetly at Rainbow.

“Rainbow, honey! It’s been a while, how are you, sweetie?” the woman’s voice was soft and sweet as she hugged the rainbow haired teen.
“I’m doing great, Mrs. Shy.” Rainbow hugged back.

“Fluttershy didn’t tell me you were coming, I would have prepared dinner sooner!” Mrs. Shy suddenly became worried and frantically pointed towards the kitchen. Rainbow smirked as the action reminded her of her best friend.

“It’s okay, Mrs. Shy. Fluttershy didn’t know I was coming either. I don’t plan on staying long though.” she assured the older woman, who visibly relaxed.

“Oh well...Fluttershy went up in her room as soon as she came home from school. She said something about ‘extreme studying’, so I haven’t went to bother her. She hasn’t come out since...I’m afraid something might be wrong with the poor dear.” Mrs. Shy’s face grew somber, “But you’ve always been able to cheer her up. And something tells me that you sensed that something was wrong as well.” Her somber expression slowly turned into a bittersweet one.

“Yeah..it’s been on my mind all day. I hate it when she’s like this.” Rainbow admitted.

“Which is why I’m glad that you are her friend, Rainbow. You always look out for my Shy Shy. You do know that you are welcome here anytime you need us, right?” The woman asked, to which Rainbow smiled.

“Of course.”

“Well...you know where to find her. I hope she’s alright.” Mrs. Shy said before walking into the kitchen. Rainbow began to slowly head up the stairs.

She stopped in front of the door that lead to Fluttershy’s bedroom and placed her ear flat against it. From the door, Rainbow could hear soft sobs coming from no one other than Fluttershy. It took everything in Rainbow to not break into the room at that very moment and comfort her friend. She’d heard Fluttershy cry many times, but each time, Rainbow felt as if she were being torn into pieces.

Not wanting to hear anymore, Rainbow raised her hand and knocked softly on the door. She heard a small gasp and a few quiet sniffles.

“Mom?” came the muffled response.

Rainbow quickly corrected her.

“No, Shy. It’s Dash..”

Rainbow then heard a few more quick sniffles and things moving around within the room.

“Just a moment!” Fluttershy squeaked.

Finally, the door opened, revealing Fluttershy in a tank top and fuzzy pajama pants. She blushed with embarrassment and tucked some of her long pink hair behind her ear.

“Sorry...I didn’t know you were coming.” she said, avoiding Rainbow’s gaze.

Rainbow smiled slightly and slowly walked into the room, “It’s cool. We’ve had like hundreds of sleepovers before, this is nothing new.”

“So, what brings you here?” Fluttershy looked up at Rainbow, “Not that I don’t want you here of course...but it’s not like I wanted you here either. Wait no that’s not what I meant. It’s not like I was waiting for you to come...but that doesn’t mean I don’t want you here you know? I just-”

“Fluttershy.”

“Yes?” the timid girl looked up at Rainbow, and Dash could immediately tell that she had been crying a lot beforehand. While most of her make up was removed, Rainbow could make out the faintest streaks of mascara running down her cheeks. Her eyes were slightly red and puffy, and even her voice sounded strained. Seeing Fluttershy so upset made Rainbow angry, and she didn’t take time to acknowledge anything.

Rainbow walked around and took her shoes off before plopping down on Fluttershy’s bed as if it were her own.

“So are you going to tell me? Or are we going to play this pointless game where I pretend I don’t know that you’re upset?” she said, raising her eyebrow. Fluttershy looked confused.

“Dashie, I don’t know what you me-”

“Fluttershy, I can literally see your pillow right now,” Rainbow yelled, holding up a pink pillow that seemed to have a wet spot on it, “You’re gonna tell me that all of this is just drool or something?”

“Well...it could be..” Fluttershy looked down.

“Is it that bad? You don’t have to tell me everything, but just don’t lie to me and say that everything’s okay when it clearly isn’t. Did I do something? I’m worried about you Flutters..” Rainbow looked down. She was never this open about her feelings with anyone. This was a side that only Fluttershy was able to see.

The shy girl frowned and bit the bottom of her lip.

“You didn’t do anything, Dashie.” She sighed.

“Then what’s the matter? I want to help you…” Rainbow pleaded.

“I can’t tell you.”

“Why not?”

“Because it’s terrifying!”

“Fluttershy, you’re talking to me. Do you really think I’m going to get scared?”

“No, Rainbow Dash, it’s terrifying for me! Me telling you is something I’m afraid to do!” Fluttershy snapped.

Rainbow’s smug smile disappeared as the volume of Fluttershy’s voice increased. She sat back against the head of Fluttershy’s bed. Fluttershy recoiled for a moment and her stern expression turned into one of guilt. Tears immediately filled her eyes and she began sobbing again. Rainbow didn't hesitate to hurry over to Fluttershy and wrap her in the tightest hug she could give. It took a lot for Rainbow to keep her own tears from forming.

Rainbow comforted her friend silently for what seemed like an hour, until Fluttershy stopped crying.

“Shy..” Rainbow’s voice cracked, her heart hurt, “Am I the problem?”

“No.” Fluttershy said immediately but looked down, “But you are a part of it.”

“What did I do? I'm sorry, whatever I did I didn't realize that I hurt you-”

Fluttershy raised her hand in front of Rainbow’s face.

“No, you didn't do anything.” She said.

Rainbow suddenly began to put two and two together.

“Is this about me dating Mac?” the athlete almost whispered. Fluttershy shut her eyes tight and nodded.

“Fluttershy...I didn't know you liked him. You never talked to me about it. I wouldn't have done it to hurt you purposely..” Rainbow looked down and placed an arm around her friend.

“Dashie...I don't like Big Macintosh.” Fluttershy said through some returning tears. The timid girl bit back a sob.

Rainbow looked confused.

“Wait, then why else would you be so upset? If you don’t like Mac then- oh...my...holy crap…” Rainbow’s eyes widened, and she backed away from Fluttershy for a moment as she suddenly realized why Fluttershy was heartbroken. She heard Fluttershy begin to sob softly again.

“Hey hey, don't cry. It’s okay, Flutters.” Rainbow hugged her friend again before looking into her eyes.

“How long?” She asked simply.

Fluttershy took a deep breath in before speaking with closed eyes.

“Sixth grade…” she said, “It started out with me thinking how pretty and cute you were. Then I constantly wanted to be around you more. You're confident, you're outgoing, you're funny. You are one of the only people who has stuck by my side after all of these years. You stood up for me. When everyone around me made me feel worthless, I knew that I must have been worthy of someone because you were my friend. I knew that these weren't normal feelings to have about someone, and I realized and accepted that I liked you when I was in eighth grade."

Rainbow listened intently, but she couldn’t talk. Fluttershy took note of this and put her head down in shame.

“I understand if I creep you out now and if you don’t want to be my friend anymore. I wouldn’t hang around a freak like me either.” She said.

Rainbow’s shocked face quickly turned into one of anger. She grabbed Fluttershy by the shoulders and forced her to look into her magenta eyes.

“Fluttershy Marie don’t you ever call yourself a freak again. You don’t creep me out. None of this is your fault and it isn't a bad thing. You will always be my best friend. Do you get that?” Rainbow asserted, and her face softened.

“But seriously...I don’t mind that you feel that way about me. I can’t say anything else but the fact that I’m so sorry.” she hugged her friend again.

“Don’t apologize. There is no way that you could have known. Besides, I’m not upset at the fact that you’re taken, I’m upset with myself for not being brave enough to tell you sooner. I’m such a coward.” Fluttershy sniffled.

“Hey. Stop talking about yourself like that. And I don’t blame you for being afraid to tell me. I waited for seven months before I gathered up the courage to tell AJ that I was dating her brother. I was worried that she wouldn’t approve and get mad. I was scared that Mac and I would have to split. Most importantly, I was scared to lose her as a friend. I didn’t want to ruin anything. If I did...I didn’t know what I’d do.” Rainbow said with a sad grimace.

Fluttershy tentatively leaned her head against Dash’s shoulder. Rainbow smiled and laid her head against Fluttershy’s.

“You gonna be okay?” Rainbow asked after a few moments of silence.

“I think so..Thanks Dashie.” Fluttershy finally smiled.

“No problem.”

Author's Note

Mini chapter! Yay! Another chapter should be out either tonight or somewhere this weekend! I’ also believe that I have a schedule now. There should be a new chapter every Saturday or Sunday! And maybe even a new story!

It's Not Okay!

Applejack frowned as she watched Rainbow and her brother chat across the table. She had invited Rainbow over to hang out once again, but the visit had turned out how it usually does; Big Mac and Rainbow always end up spending time with each other for hours on end.

A few weeks had passed since Rainbow and Big Macintosh had revealed their relationship to the entire high school, which was two weeks after they had revealed their relationship to Applejack and the rest of the girls. At first, people, both men and women, were upset. It turns out that many students had liked Big Macintosh, and a lot of students liked Rainbow Dash.

With prom coming up, many students that had a crush on Big Macintosh had begun to play jokes and even tried to harm Rainbow. It had made her upset for a while, but she eventually picked herself up again. The same had happened to Big Macintosh. Students who had liked Rainbow began to resent him.

Applejack had also took notice of Fluttershy’s behavior around Rainbow lately. When Rainbow revealed her relationship, Fluttershy seemed really hurt and upset. Applejack and the others had tried to talk to her, but she assured them that it was nothing. When Applejack asked Rainbow, she had told Applejack that everything was okay with Fluttershy, and that it's nothing to worry about. Knowing that Rainbow would always make sure Fluttershy was okay, Applejack dropped it.

However, even though Applejack had repeatedly told the couple that she was okay with the relationship, Applejack couldn’t help but feel jealous. She had tried countless times to hang out with Rainbow lately, but in the end, it would seem as if she’d ditch her for Big Macintosh. Applejack loved hanging out with all of her friends, but when it had come to having a bad day, Applejack always turned to Rainbow.

If Applejack was not in a good mood, she knew that Rainbow Dash would somehow take her mind off of what was bothering her. Rainbow annoyed Applejack, challenged her, and encouraged her to let everything out, even if the athlete never took her own advice. The farmwork had become increasingly stressful lately, and Applejack had found herself inviting Rainbow and the others over more often than usual.

Unfortunately, whenever Rainbow did come by, her brother would come to hang out as well, which of course was not a problem. The problem was that Dash and Mac would always be lost with each other. It was annoying, and proving that Applejack’s fears were coming true.

She was afraid that Rainbow would ultimately choose Big Macintosh over everyone else.

“Oh, crap. It’s seven o’clock, I gotta go. I was supposed to meet my grandmother at the airport like half an hour ago.” Rainbow hissed, and stood up immediately.

“Maybe if ya weren’t obsessed with my brother you would have realized.” Applejack grumbled in a small voice.

“What did you say AJ?” Rainbow asked innocently, “I didn’t hear you.”

“Nothin’,” Applejack smiled, “Do ya need a ride there?” she asked hopeful. Maybe if Applejack offered to drive her to the airport, they would be able to at least finish the conversation they were having before Mac walked in.

“Ah’ll take ya.” Big Macintosh suddenly said.

“Sweet! Thanks,” Rainbow smiled, “I’ll see you next time AJ.” Rainbow rushed out of the door.

Applejack felt her eye twitch. She was beginning to lose her patience with the couple. Suddenly, she felt her phone vibrate in the pocket of her jeans. It was a text from Dash.

Just realized we never did our rematch from earlier today. I’m coming over tomorrow and we can finish this once and for all”

Applejack smiled a bit.

Alright, but be prepared to lose. She replied.

Rainbow and Applejack sat in the barn, ready to race. But how could they race with the barn door locked and closed?

“So, I had your sister hide the key to the barn in here. Whoever finds it first has to hurry, unlock the door, open it, and try to race to the apple tree on that little hill.” Rainbow explained to Applejack.

Applejack looked at Rainbow Dash.

“Dash, there are a bunch of apple trees on a bunch of little hills. What do ya mean?”

“Bloomberg, AJ. We are racing to Bloomberg the tree.” Rainbow smiled and laughed a bit as Applejack glared at her.

“Alright, fine. Ready…” Applejack started.

“Set, go!” Rainbow cut her off and went towards the back of the barn, in search of the key.

“Hey!” Applejack yelled and also began to search for the key. After a few moments, the barn door opened slightly.

“Ya found it already?” Applejack asked Rainbow.

“No...I thought you did.” Rainbow said confused, on the other side of the barn.

“Did Ah interrupt somethin’?” A deep voice asked. Rainbow smiled a bit while Applejack immediately frowned.

“We were trying to race before you interrupted us, you big lug.” Rainbow pretended to pout.

“Well, Ah’m sorry Ah needed to work.” Big Macintosh replied.

“How’d you get in? Applebloom locked the door.” Rainbow asked.

“You see, darlin’. It’s called a spare key.” Big Macintosh said as if he were talking to a child.

“Shut it.” Rainbow laughed.

“Oh, Ah got a question to ask ya.” Big Macintosh started. Applejack rolled her eyes and frowned again.

“Yea?” Rainbow pushed.

“Are ya busy tonight?”

“No, not really.”

“Would ya like to come with me to Sugarcube Corner? We haven’t been there for a while.”

“Yeah, sure!” Rainbow smiled.

“So how have ya been?” Big Macintosh asked his girlfriend. Applejack watched Rainbow roll her magenta eyes.

“I just talked to you this morning.”

“Ah know, but a lot of things could happen in five hours. Ya never know.” Mac winked.

Rainbow and Big Macintosh began to talk amongst themselves, and Applejack’s patience was wearing thin. She had this happen to her countless times, and she hated to let it happen again. She tried to convince herself that she was wrong for being angry, but she couldn’t help it. Applejack had told Big Macintosh and Rainbow that she was okay with them dating, and at that time, she was. However, if this is what it was going to be like, Applejack wasn’t so sure. The two had been dating for months prior. Why weren’t they like this before? Was it because they were hiding it? All Applejack knew was that she had to hide her anger, even though that it was getting harder to control.

Besides, Rainbow had planned on coming over today to do a rematch with her. There was no way that she’d ditch her again, not if it was for a competition.

“You wanna come and help with the horses?” Mac asked, “It won’t be long and y’all can get back to your little...escape room?”

“Sure, I’ll be back in a minute, AJ. Okay?” Rainbow started to head for the door.

Applejack grinded her teeth and balled her fists in anger. She could not believe that it was happening again!

“No! It’s not okay!” Applejack yelled.

Both Rainbow’s and Big Mac’s eyes widened at the sudden outburst.

“Y’all heard me..” Applejack stomped over towards where the shocked couple stood.

“AJ, what's wrong?” Rainbow asked, almost concerned for her friend.

“You.” Applejack hissed and watched as Rainbow backed up a bit, hurt. This is where Big Macintosh stepped in.

“Sis, is everything alright?” He asked Applejack softly.

“You are the problem too.”

“What did I do?” Rainbow questioned.

Applejack laughed bitterly.

“Ah am tired of the two of ya. Together.”

“But you said you were okay!”

“That was before y'all started hanging out every minute of the day! Dash...you’ve been skipping Rainboom practices lately. Mac has been leaving his chores undone! Heck, Ah can't even hang out with the two o’ ya for a few hours before y’all run off together.”

“AJ, we do hang out.” Rainbow started.

“Really? When?” Applejack placed her hand on her hips and waited for an answer.

“What are we doing right now?” Rainbow stated, getting irritated.

“Right now, Ah’m watching you leave the barn with my brother so y'all can have fun for the next few hours.”

“I told you that I’d be back in a few minutes!”

“You always say that!”

Big Macintosh bit his lip before speaking.

“Ah’ll just go into the stables myself. Y’all can finish whatever ya were doin’.” he said, preparing to leave. Rainbow then grabbed onto his hand and pulled him back and narrowed her eyes at Applejack.

“No,” she countered, “You shouldn’t have to leave because AJ is jealous.”

Applejack gasped and felt her face become hot.

“Jealous!? Rainbow Dash, how dare ya,” she stepped towards Rainbow Dash, “Ah’m just speakin’ my mind! Ah’m tellin’ ya the honest truth!”

“Well maybe you can tell us ‘the honest truth’ without screaming at us! We didn’t do anything wrong!”

“Ah can’t believe you are the element of loyalty.” Applejack sneered. Rainbow once again had a hurt expression in her face, but covered it up seconds later with anger.

“What does my element have to do with any of this!?” Rainbow shouted, her voice cracking.

“Well, the real element of loyalty wouldn’t ditch her friends for her boyfriend.”

“AJ, are you serious?” The volume of Rainbow’s voice decreased dramatically, and she looked insulted.

“What is your problem? You aren’t normally like this…” Rainbow looked down.

“Ah could say the same to you..” Applejack scowled.

The three teens in the barn fell into silence, the atmosphere filled with tension. Rainbow Dash had her hands balled up into fists and her expression was anything but happy. However, she wasn’t angry, she was upset. This is what she was afraid of. She didn’t want this to happen.

Big Macintosh looked upset and torn. He leaned against the wall of the barn with his arms crossed and bit his tongue, as if he were thinking. Applejack on the other hand was still very angry, and didn’t realize that most of the things she had been saying were driven by her anger.

“So what do you want me to do? You never told me that you were upset, I’m sorry.” Rainbow bit her bottom lip.

“Y’all should have noticed!”

“I don’t see the others complaining!”

“Because they’re too scared to tell ya.”

Rainbow walked back to where Big Macintosh stood. She looked at him and stared into his green eyes before staring into Applejack’s.

“I don’t get it...where is this coming from? What do you want me to do?” Rainbow repeated, her voice cracking even more.

Applejack closed her eyes and thought about everything that had just happened. She had thought about how much her brother and Rainbow had been hanging out and how she noticed that Rainbow had been so quick to defend him a few moments ago.

“Ah want you to think about who is more important to ya, us girls or your relationship? Right now, Ah see that you’re choosing him over people who have been with ya for years.”

As Applejack spoke, tears began welling in Rainbow’s eyes. Her lip quivered as she looked back and forth between her boyfriend and Applejack.

“Are you really making me choose?” Rainbow croaked.

Applejack said nothing as she stared at Rainbow, as if she were expecting an answer. Rainbow laughed bitterly before leaving the barn, Big Macintosh following her.

Rainbow Dash stomped her way to the middle of the apple orchard, knowing full well that Big Macintosh was behind her.

“That wasn’t Applejack, Mac. I don’t know what happened to her, but that’s not her.” she ranted.

“Ah agree..” Big Macintosh put in.

Rainbow sat down against one of the many apple trees around her.

“This is what I didn’t want,” she croaked, “I don’t want her to be mad at me forever, Mac.”

Big Macintosh sighed deeply and avoided looking at his girlfriend.

“Ah know, darlin’. That’s why we need to talk..” he said, his voice shaking.

Rainbow looked up at him with fear in her eyes. With her heart pounding, Rainbow spoke.

“W-what?”

Fluttershy sat in the middle of her living room, petting a familiar white rabbit. She smiled as the rabbit began beating his foot in pleasure.

“Oh, Angel.” she giggled.

Suddenly, there was a rapid knock at the door, causing Fluttershy to stop petting Angel.

“I’m sorry, Angel..I think that’s Rainbow. It’s eight o’ clock.. I thought that she would have been home by now.” Fluttershy said after looking outside of her window. Angel crossed his paws and growled.

“Is that an attitude, Mister?” Fluttershy questioned, raising her eyebrow. The white rabbit rolled his eyes before jumping off of the green couch angrily.

Fluttershy had walked towards the door and opened it, revealing a distressed Rainbow Dash. Her magenta eyes were filled with tears and her lip quivered.

“Oh my goodness! Dashie, what’s wrong?!” Fluttershy gasped at the state of her closest friend.

Fluttershy held her arms out and watched as Rainbow collapsed into them, sobbing. She bent to her knees as she held Rainbow close, her body shaking as she cried. The shy girl found herself crying as well after a few moments. The confident rainbow haired girl would come to her nearly every time she needed a good cry, but this had been the first time Fluttershy had seen her so hurt. It shocked her, but also tore her heart into two.

“Rainbow...what’s wrong.” Fluttershy sniffled. She watched as Rainbow opened her mouth to speak, but only began sobbing again. Fluttershy only held her tighter and closed her eyes.

“It’s going to be okay, Dashie...I’m here.”

Author's Note

So...I know I said this chapter would be out last weekend but I kind of got stuck :twilightoops: .

But...I hope you liked this chapter! I think the next one should be up either this weekend or sometime in the beginning of next week. (I thought I had a schedule but I’m already failing..)

Anywho..why do you think Rainbow is so upset? Who do you think was right and wrong in the argument?
and if you didn't notice..this chapter was sorta based on a particular episode in the series.. :ajsleepy: :applecry: :eeyup:

Break Up Blues

“That’s weird...Shy and Dashie should have been here by now.” Pinkie Pie scratched her head and leaned on the horse statue.

“I mean…I guess I can see Rainbow being late, but Fluttershy?” Sunset questioned.

Twilight smiled a bit.

“Well...technically she’s not late until after eight o'clock.” she said as she pushed her glasses up.

Applejack frowned as she waited for both Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash to arrive. It was the first time in a long time since Rainbow had been late to school. She wondered if it had anything to do with their argument they had the day before. After Rainbow stormed out of the barn, Applejack didn’t see her for the rest of that day. She wouldn’t answer her calls or texts. On top of that, she had barely seen her older brother since then as well. It seemed he was either avoiding her or the entire family. To be honest, even though she was angry, she was worried for the two of them.

Suddenly, Applejack saw both of her missing friends heading toward them. Rainbow was in the exact same hoodie she wore the day before, Her prismatic hair covered her face more than usual and she walked slowly; something she’d never think of doing. Fluttershy had her arm linked around Rainbow’s and tried to talk to her, but it didn’t look like Rainbow was answering much.

When the girls finally reached the others, Applejack could see Rainbow’s face better. Were her eyes red?

“Hey, sorry we’re late.” Fluttershy sighed and smiled slightly.

“It’s okay!” Pinkie half yelled, and grabbed her two friends and pulled them both into a tight hug, “Is everyone having a Good Morning?”

“May I ask why you two took longer than usual?” Rarity asked, pulling the attention away from Pinkie’s question.

“Yes! Class starts in ten whole minutes! You both should have been here ages ago. Now you don’t have time to get organized!” Twilight scoffed and rolled her eyes, “Fluttershy, you know Rainbow drags to school sometimes, you should have known better than to let her slow you down!”

“Twilight..” Fluttershy started.

“Seriously, what was Rainbow doing? Hitting the snooze button a thousand times? I’m worried about the amount of times she’s been tardy!”

Rainbow would have usually shot back at Twilight’s rant by now, but instead, she bit the bottom of her lip and placed her hand in her pocket. She stared blankly at the ground. This act did not go unnoticed, as Sunset soon spoke up.

“Um..Dash? Is everything alright?” Sunset asked, stepping closer towards her friend.

“Yep...everything’s cool.” Rainbow replied with little emotion.

Sunset frowned at her friend’s obvious lie, and gave a small smirk as she had got an idea.

“Don’t lie to me...you know what I could do.” she said, waving her hand in reference to her powers. Everyone was shocked at Rainbow’s reaction. She shot her head up immediately, and glared at Sunset.

“Don’t you dare.” she threatened. As everyone stared at her in shock, Rainbow’s angry glare disappeared and was replaced with one of frustration. The young athlete closed her eyes and groaned.

“Sorry.” she mumbled, before walking away into the school building.

The girls stood in silence in confusion as they wondered what had gotten into Rainbow.

“So...I guess she isn’t having a good morning.” Pinkie stated simply, to which every girl standing rolled their eyes.

It was hard for Applejack to concentrate on her English class. Even though Rainbow had arrived to school early, she was still late to first period. The rainbow haired girl walked in with a frown on her face and seemed to be taking her time. When she used to arrive late almost every morning, she had used to rush in with a large smirk on her face as Mr. Cranky scolded and lectured her about time management. Rainbow would roll her eyes and promise that she’d be on time the next class, which everyone knew that was one promise she’d never keep.

However, today, when Rainbow walked into class, she looked as if she had lost all of her energy. Her eyes were dull and a tired frown was etched across her face. Mr. Cranky looked excited to give her a lecture for the first time in a very long time. He opened his mouth immediately and gave a stern look at her. However, after one glance, his stern gaze softened and the words seemed to die in an instant.

“Sorry I’m late, won’t happen again.” Rainbow mumbled before silently sulking to her seat beside Applejack.

“Just try to be a little quicker next time.” Cranky said with low volume, before continuing what he was saying.

Applejack watched Rainbow as she took notes on the lesson. Their eyes met a few times before Rainbow quickly went back to looking down at her paper. Her head was propped up by the palm of her hand, and her hair hung loose over her eye. She looked bored, and as the class ended, she was one of the first ones to head out of the door. However, Mr. Cranky stopped her.

“Is everything alright, Rainbow Dash?” he asked.

Applejack watched as Rainbow put on one of the fakest smiles she’d ever seen.

“Yep! Everything’s cool, I just didn’t really sleep much last night.” the rainbow haired girl forced. As the teacher nodded, Rainbow hurried out of the classroom. Applejack followed her, in attempt to try to talk to her. However, she was stopped by a brown haired senior. As soon as she looked into his blue eyes, she knew exactly who she was stopped by. His name was Caramel, and he was a close friend of Big Mac’s.

“Hey, AJ. What’s up with your brother? He’s been quiet today.” he asked.

“Caramel, he’s always quiet and you know that.” Applejack deadpanned.

“No, Jack, he’s been quieter than usual. He’s not even saying his ‘Eeyup’s’ and ‘Eenope’s’!” Caramel mocked.

Applejack rolled her eyes.

“Look, maybe he’s just tired?” she suggested.

“Jack, the man goes to bed at eight o’clock and he’s eighteen. Has he ever been tired to you?”

“Okay, fine. He might just be in a bad mood. Ah kind of got into an argument with his girlfriend and she’s been a little off today too. Ah’m sure the both of em’ will be feelin’ better by the end of the day. Especially when they get to see each other.” Applejack explained.

“Wait, you and Rainbow had a fight?”

“Yes, Caramel.” Applejack sighed, getting annoyed.

“About?”

“None of your business! Don’t ya have a class to get to?”

“Yeah, I do. Thanks AJ, I think I know what’s wrong now..” he said before rushing down the hall.

By lunch, Applejack would have thought that Rainbow would have perked up a bit. Everyone else gathered at the table did as well. Fluttershy sat next to Rainbow as she ate in silence. The girls all exchanged worried glances. Before, Applejack wasn’t really concerned, as she was still angry at her friend and thought that Rainbow was still angry as well. But now, as she watched Rainbow, she was too quiet. There didn’t seem to be any tension between the two, and she hadn’t glared or made any snarky comments towards Applejack either. Applejack figured out that Rainbow wasn’t angry, she was upset.

The entire table remained silent and didn’t say anything to Rainbow. However, the last straw was when Rainbow began to tear up as she looked at her food. Pinkie saw this and jumped up to rush over to her friend, but Rarity stopped her from going across the table. Pinkie glared at Rarity before sitting back down.

“What is your problem?!” Pinkie hissed quietly, so Rainbow couldn’t hear.

“If you go over there and comfort her too much, then she’d start crying more!” Rarity hissed back.

“Maybe that’s what she needs. Letting things out always makes me feel better. It’s not healthy to bottle everything in and she’s barely holding it together as is!” Twilight whispered, and joined the conversation.

“I understand, but let’s approach this slowly okay?” Rarity suggested, and the others nodded.

Rarity cleared her throat and looked at Rainbow Dash.

“Rainbow, dear. How has your day been?” she asked casually.

Rainbow lifted her head up to look at Rarity, and the tears in her eyes seemed to be gone.

“Um, okay I guess?” she answered, and looked back down at her lunch.

“Well...that’s good. Fluttershy, how about you?”

“Oh, um. Mine has been fine as well.” Fluttershy smiled.

Sunset began to grow impatient with Rarity’s strategy.

“Fluttershy, do you know anything about this?” she asked, looking at Rainbow.

“Oh..no.” she said out loud, before nodding her head yes in secret.

“Are you sure you can’t say anything?”

“No, I’m sorry.” she frowned.

Twilight looked at Rainbow Dash from across the table and took her hand.

“Rainbow, whatever is bothering you, you can tell us. We are your friends and we care for you. Holding all of this in is not okay. You can trust us.” Twilight gave a small smile, and the rest of her friends did as well.

Rainbow looked at her friend’s smiling faces, and her lip quivered a bit.

“Guys, I’m okay. You’re worrying over nothing.” she smiled. The girls all sat back in disappointment. Applejack began to get angry.

“RD, we are tryin’ to help ya. Jus’ tell us would ya?” she sneered, but was shocked as Fluttershy glared at her.

“Applejack, that’s enough.” she hissed.

“Fluttershy, ya don’t understand. You didn’t see her yesterday she was-”

“Actually, I did see her yesterday, Applejack. You really need to tone it down.”

“Fine, whatever. If she don’t want our help, it’s fine. She’ll have to deal with this on her own.” she crossed her arms, not realizing that her anger was getting the best of her once again.

Fluttershy watched as Rainbow began to tear up again.

“Applejack, what has gotten into you lately!?” Fluttershy scolded, “She doesn’t have to-”

“No, Shy, it’s fine,” Rainbow interrupted her through her tears, “If she wants to know so bad, I’ll tell her.” Rainbow looked Applejack straight in her eyes and put her fork down.

“Your dumb brother broke up with me because he didn’t want to come between us. He said that he knew how much our friendship meant to me, and didn’t want to hurt me.” she spilled, her tears streaming down her cheeks now. Rarity gasped in surprise while the others gaped.

Applejack stared at Rainbow, unable to say anything. That wasn’t what she wanted to happen.

“What’s wrong, AJ? I thought you’d be happy. You got what you wanted.” Rainbow sobbed once before leaving the table.

All of the girls at the table were silent.

“What just happened?” Pinkie said flatly.

“Oh, the poor dear.” Rarity held her heart.

“Fluttershy, what happened?” Sunset asked.

Fluttershy took a deep breath and sighed.

“She came to my house last night crying her eyes out. She could barely talk to me. It was the worst I’ve ever seen from her. After a while, she managed to get out that she and Mac broke up. She told me the entire thing in the morning though.” she said as she gave a stern look at Applejack.

“Not only did she tell me about what happened yesterday, but while she was crying she kept mumbling something about not being loyal to me, and that she was sorry.” Fluttershy glared at Applejack.

“What did you say to her?” she asked Applejack.

Applejack bit the bottom of her lip and held her head in shame. She knew she messed up.

“Well...lately, Rainbow and my brother have been hangin’ out a lil’ too much. My brother had been skippin’ out on his chores after school to hang out with her, and that left me to do his chores on top of mine. We all know that Rainbow’s been skipping out on Rainbooms practices too.” she explained.

“Well, I don’t know about Big Macintosh. And I’ll admit that Rainbow’s been skipping some practices to hang out with Mac, but most of the practice’s she had skipped was because her grandmother has been sick lately, and she had went to go and visit her.” Fluttershy stopped, making Applejack even more embarrassed. She had assumed that Rainbow was blowing her off for Mac, when in reality, she was tending to her family.

“I've noticed that Rainbow had been hanging out with Big Macintosh a lot as well, but I remember that he is her first love, and that she needs to learn how to manage time. I've been meaning to talk to her about that.” Rarity added.

“Well, anyway. Whenever she'd come hang out with me, she'd end up leavin’ me for my brother. He’d come over and then all of a sudden, the two can't leave each other alone. Ah guess yesterday was the last straw.” Applejack said.

“What did you do?” Twilight asked, curious.

“Ah started yellin’ at her about it all. And when she yelled back, Ah made her pick between her friends or Mac. Ah told her that she wasn’t bein’ loyal to us.” Applejack frowned, realizing how bad she must have sounded yesterday.

“Ah guess after she left, Mac broke up with her because he thought that if they stayed together, he’d put our friendship in danger.”

“I can see what he was doing, but I don't think that breaking up was the answer.” Sunset began.

“I agree, I think that they just need to learn how to manage their time together. Put priorities first and make some sort of a schedule.” Rarity agreed.

“I just want to figure out how to help Dashie! Dashie has never been this upset, and I don't like it!” Pinkie frowned.

Applejack felt guilty and looked in the direction Rainbow ran away in. Maybe if she’d try to talk things out with her, she’d understand why she had said what she said.

“Ah’ll go talk to her.” Applejack said as she stood up.

“No,” Fluttershy said quickly and stared at Applejack, “I mean, you really shouldn’t right now. I think you’ve said enough.” With that, Fluttershy stormed away, looking for Rainbow Dash.

Applejack sat back down, her face red with embarrassment. It was the first time she had seen Fluttershy angry at her, and she wasn’t fond of it. It was the first time she had seen Rainbow cry in years, and it was all because of her. Her brother wasn’t himself, because of what she had said. She didn’t understand why what she did was so bad. All she had said was that Rainbow needed to separate herself from Mac a little.

“Are y’all mad at me too?” she looked down.

The remaining girls at the table looked at Applejack.

“Well, based on what I’ve heard, you could have handled things differently.” Rarity started.

“I don’t blame you for being upset. I’d be mad too if I was left with extra work if my brother ran away for some girl too.” Sunset agreed.

“I agree with Sunset and Rarity. We all see why you were mad, and we agree with what you are saying, but making Rainbow question her loyalty? Rainbow may seem tough, but after observing her, she tends to hide her feelings. Under that tough shell is a vulnerable girl with a hard past. She’s still insecure about her abilities and doesn’t reveal that because she wants to be seen as someone that we could always go to. She deals with her struggles on her own, but there is only so much she can take before she cracks. Right now, she’s worried about you, Applejack, us girls, her failed relationship, and if she’s even worth her element. That’s why Fluttershy is so upset with you.” explained Twilight.

“What she said!” Pinkie smiled, “But I’m not mad at you Jackie, just a teensy weensy bit sad.”

“Thanks girls,” Applejack slightly smiled, “What should Ah do? Dash usually lets these type of things go by the end of the day.”

“Well, breakups are hard, Applejack. For a first relationship, it lasted pretty long, and I don’t think it would have ended anytime soon if this didn’t all happen. It’s obvious that neither of the two wanted it, so maybe you shouldn’t deal with this now. At least give Rainbow a few hours. It still stings and hurts very much.” Rarity suggested.

“I mean, of course she’s going to be upset. I know it seems like Rainbow is angry with you, but from the way she shouted a few minutes ago, it looked like she was just taking her frustrations out on you. I’m sure she is upset with you, but not as upset as she is about the whole break up. Like Rarity said, give her a few to cool down.” Sunset added.

“I think that the perfect time to talk with her is after soccer practice today. It’s something she enjoys and it should lift her spirits up while playing.” smiled Twilight.

“That would give you time to talk to your brother! Then you can go find Dashie!” Pinkie hopped.

All of the girls’ input really helped Applejack feel a lot better. Now, she had figured out a way to make things right. After school, she would head home and speak with Big Macintosh while they worked on their chores. By that time, Rainbow should be done with soccer practice, and Applejack could meet her before she left. It was perfect!

“Ah think Ah know what Ah’m gonna do. Thanks again, girls.” Applejack smiled as the bell rang.

Applejack stood in her barn waiting for her brother to arrive. She hadn’t seen any sign of Rainbow since lunch, but after speaking with her brother, Applejack was confident that she’d make things right again. She smiled as the door opened, revealing a familiar looking freckled face.

“Mac!” Applejack immediately called as her brother walked in.

“Eeyup?” Mac replied, quietly and coldly, causing Applejack to step back.

“Look,” she started, “Ah know Ah screwed up yesterday, and Ah heard about the break up.”
“And?”

“And Ah wanted to talk about what Ah said.”

Big Macintosh looked into Applejack’s pleading green eyes. His mouth formed a flat line as he sat down on a bale of hay.

“Go on ahead.” he said.

“Ah shouldn’t have yelled at y’all. Ah just was tired of Apple Bloom and Ah havin’ to do your chores as you and Dash had fun. It’s alright for y’all to hang out sometimes, but ya did it for an entire week straight! And when ya came when Dash was over, she’d always start hangin’ with you instead of me.” Applejack started.

“Ah shouldn’t have yelled at Dash either. Tellin’ her to choose was so silly and stupid. Ah wasn’t myself yesterday. Ah was just...so angry.”

Applejack looked down in shame, waiting for her brother’s reply. She looked up, slightly angry, when she heard a small laugh.

“What is so funny?” She asked, irritated.

“Nothin’. You just reminded me of somethin’, that’s all.” Big Mac replied with a bitter smile.

“What?”

“Remember that story that we heard, about Ma and Pa?”

“O’ course Ah do, Mac.”

“This whole thing sounds like the situation with Grand Pear..”

“What are ya talkin about, married? You two can’t be married!” A middle aged woman yelled at her red haired son.

An older male strode up to his daughter, who stood in front of the red haired man.

“Finally, something we can agree on.” he said, turning angrily at his daughter, “Pear Butter enough of this nonsense. We’re movin’ and you gotta stick with your family.” the man said, with a gray streak in his hair.

Pear Butter, a woman with curly orange hair, looked around at the situation she was in. She and her now husband, Bright Mac, had just gotten married in their secret place right in between of where their fields stood. The trees were decorated with lights, and banners of pears and apples hung from its branches. Bright Mac’s mother, Mrs. Smith, stood angrily in front of the wedding arc, next to the pink haired mayor, who stood in shock. Her best friend, a blue woman named Chiffon Swirl, stared at her, sad.

Pear Butter looked at her husband’s green eyes before turning to look back at her father.

“But,” she said with an accent, “The Apples are my family now too.”

Bright Mac tore from his mother’s grip to run to his wife and held her hand tight, smiling at her. Mrs. Smith looked at the couple in surprise, and watched as her enemy doubled over in shock.

“You can’t be serious,” he sneered, walking up to the couple with a frown, “Are you choosing to be an Apple over being a Pear?” he stomped, expecting for his young daughter to realize her mistake.

Pear Butter’s blue eyes immediately filled with tears as she looked at Bright Mac in distress. She looked at her father, hoping that he wasn’t being serious.

“Are ya makin’ me choose?” she whimpered, looking into her father’s disapproving brown eyes.

The man stood, shocked that his daughter didn’t answer the way he wanted. He then looked stern before speaking.

“Yes,” he said firmly, his voice deep and mean, “I am.”

Pear Butter’s tears began to flow down her cheeks, she sniffled as she looked at her father.

“Then yeah,” she said shakily, “Ah guess Ah am.” Her husband comforted her in a tight hug as she looked at her father.

The man was once again shocked at his daughter’s response. Upset that he didn’t get the answer he had wanted, he stomped again.

“Fine.” was all he shouted, before leaving his daughter behind. Never to be seen again.

Pear Butter began sobbing in her husband’s arms, upset at the fact that she might have just lost her father. Bright Mac held her, adjusting the brown hat on his head. He watched as his mother also came over, and comforted his crying wife.

Applejack stood with tears in her eyes as she remembered the story of her parents.

“Oh my gosh,” she said, “Ah sounded jus’ like Grand Pear didn’t Ah?”
Big Macintosh said nothing and kept his head down.

“Ah can’t believe Ah did that, Ah’m so sorry, Mac.” Applejack realized. Rainbow must have been feeling the same way her mother did years ago. Big Mac must have felt the same as her father, caught in the middle of it all. And herself? Her actions and words were almost the same as her grandfather.

“It’s alright. You made me realize that maybe Dash and Ah were gettin’ out of hand. Ah’m sorry too.” he said before hugging his sister.

Applejack felt relieved as she fixed one part of the problem, but her eyes widened as she realized something else.

“Why’d you break up with her?” she asked her brother, breaking the hug.

“Well, she was so afraid o’ losin’ you as a friend. Ah knew that if we stuck together, the two o’ ya would have stopped bein’ friends, and that would hurt her more than anythin’. Ah didn’t want that.” Mac explained, looking down.

“Well just like ya said, Mac. This whole thing does sound like our parents’ story. But after Grand Pear left Ma alone, did Pa leave her jus’ so she wouldn’t lose him?” she stared at her brother’s green eyes.

“No,” she answered for herself, “He stuck with her and helped her through it all. In the end, they were happy. They were happy until their very last breath together. Even though Ma just lost her father, Pa and Granny made her feel complete again. Unlike what you did. Rainbow was already hurtin’ from me yellin’ at her. When she needed you the most, you broke up with her!”

Big Macintosh’s eyes widened as he realized the mistake he made.

“What time is it?” he asked firmly.

“‘Bout five.”

Big Macintosh quickly put everything in his hands down and started heading for the door.

“Where in the apple pie do ya think you’re goin?” Applejack questioned.

“Ah’m goin’ to go and find her.” he replied with confidence.

Applejack smiled at her brother and followed him out of the door.

“Ah’m comin’ with ya. Ah need to speak with her as well.”

Big Macintosh and Applejack stepped out of the red pickup truck parked in front of Canterlot High. The two of them hurried to the soccer field, in search for their athletic friend.

“Where is she?” Applejack asked.

“Ah don’t know, she should be here. She’s always here.” Big Macintosh replied.

As the two searched, a purple skinned, blonde haired teen ran over to them, her purple eyes filled with worry.

“Applejack!” she shouted, wearing the Wondercolt’s team jersey.

“Cloud Kicker, glad you’re here. Do ya know where Ah can find Dash?” Applejack asked the worried soccer player.

Cloud Kicker bit her lip and her eyes widened.

“That’s what I was going to ask you! She didn’t come to practice today and we’re all worried! Rainbow Dash hasn’t skipped a practice since she broke her arm in Sophmore year!” she exclaimed.

“Wait, she didn’t come at all?” Big Macintosh asked, now becoming worried himself.

“No! Not at all..I kept trying to call her, but she just texted me to take over for today. Is she okay?”

“Mac and Ah are gonna go find out.” Applejack reassured her, “Let’s go and see if she’s home.”

The siblings got into the truck and drove to Rainbow Dash’s house. They slowly walked up the stairs and waited after Big Macintosh knocked.

The pair watched as the door opened, revealing a woman with short hair and freckles. Her pink eyes narrowed immediately at the sight of Big Macintosh.

“Mrs. Dash,” Big Macintosh started.

“I don’t know what you did to her, but I don’t think I should let you in right now.” Rainbow’s mother said angrily and began closing the door.

“Wait, ma’am!” Applejack stopped the door from closing with her arm, “This is all my fault. He just came here to make things right.”

The woman rolled her eyes but gave in, opening the door again.

“Fine,” she sighed, “But if I find out that you hurt her more, I do not want to see you back here again.” she said looking right into Big Macintosh’s eyes.

“O’ course, ma’am.” Big Macintosh gulped, and walked in.

Author's Note

A new chapter! Yay! Don’t forget to leave your thoughts below. (We are getting close to the end :fluttercry: But that means that you all could leave me more suggestions about what kind of MacDash stories you want to see next. Or any type of stories!)

As always, thanks for reading. And if the next chapter takes a bit longer than usual, it’s because I am in the process of making another Dash story (SoarinDash shippers, prepare yourselves! :rainbowlaugh: )

Ok, so for my usual questions. What did you think of this chapter? Did Applejack do the right thing? What do you think of my Pear Butter comparison? (Obviously i dont own that scene, you can literally watch it in the Perfect Pear episode!! I DID NOT WRITE THAT WITH MY OWN BRAINNN)

Makin' Things Right

Big Macintosh and Applejack quickly headed up to Rainbow’s room. Her door was closed, and Applejack was afraid that it would be locked. Big Macintosh stepped up and knocked on the door, his hand shaking. When there was no reply, Mac tried again. Rainbow still hadn’t answered the door. Applejack had thought that Rainbow was either ignoring them or drowning everything out with music.

“Hold on, Mac.” Applejack whispered and carefully placed her hand on the doorknob. As she turned it, she saw that the door opened. Applejack continued opening the door as slowly as possible, trying not to make any sounds. She frowned when she opened the door completely.

On the bed, Rainbow Dash sat up against the head. Her knees were brought up close to her chest, and she hugged one of her pillows. She was still in the same clothes she had worn all day, and her hair was messier than usual. Her blanket hung halfway over her bed.

Rainbow was sleeping. Even though she was resting, she looked exhausted. There were visible stains running down her cheeks from crying, and overall, Rainbow looked miserable. It was as if she had lost all of her energy, and everything that had made her who she was.

Applejack’s mind suddenly traced back to a conversation that she and Rarity had months prior. She remembered how Rarity described how terrible she felt when she had broken up with Blue Blood, and now Rainbow had to go through the same. All because of her.

She looked over at her brother, who still stood in the doorway. There was a deep frown on his face, and in his eyes were the feelings of guilt and sadness. His heart probably broke even more at the sight of his former girlfriend, and it hurt Applejack even more. Both of them still clearly had real feelings for each other, and neither of them planned on breaking up anytime soon. She was the only thing coming in between the two, and she had to make things right.

“Mac, stay out here. Ah don’t know if she’s ready to see ya just yet.” Applejack instructed quietly and suddenly.

“What are ya doin’?”

“Ah’m gonna talk to her first. Ah honestly don’t even know how she’s gonna react when she sees me.”

Big Macintosh nodded and closed the door, leaving only the two girls in the room.

Applejack grabbed a chair from Rainbow’s desk and brought it closer to the bed. She looked at her sleeping friend and felt terrible. Slowly, she raised her arm and nudged her rainbow haired friend.

The girl stirred in her sleep and remained silent. Applejack nudged her once again, this time, seeing her magenta eyes flutter open. Both of them were lined with red, due to her excessive crying.

Rainbow was finally able to keep her eyes open and immediately looked at Applejack. She didn’t seem surprised to see her, in fact, she didn’t give any reaction at all. Applejack could tell that her state had worsened dramatically since that morning. The last time she had seen her, you were able to read Rainbow’s face. You could see how she was feeling, but now, as Applejack looked into her eyes, they were emotionless and drained.

“Hey,” Applejack said, not knowing how to start the conversation.

“‘Sup,” Rainbow replied with little emotion. Her voice sounded strained and it cracked even with that one single word.

Applejack cringed a bit before speaking again.

“You skipped practice today?”

“Yep..”

“Why?”

“I didn’t feel like it.”

Applejack was desperate at this point. She wanted Rainbow to be angry at her. She wanted Rainbow to yell and glare at her. She wanted Rainbow to give her any signs of emotion, she didn’t care. Rainbow sounded broken and lost, and it killed Applejack every time she talked.

“Dash,”

“Yeah?”

“Look at me,”

Rainbow did as she was told and stared blankly at Applejack. Was she really this torn up about it? Maybe Rainbow still needed to let some things out, as Twilight suggested earlier.

“What?” Rainbow asked.

“What happened to ya, girl? Ah’ve never seen you so upset before. And for what? Some boy?” Applejack provoked.

“He wasn’t just some boy, Applejack,” Rainbow replied, her eyes brimming with tears that were threatening to fall. Applejack watched as she blinked them away.

“Then what was he?”

“He was your brother, AJ,” Rainbow started, “He made me feel like I could do anything. I felt safe, and I was actually happy with him. When I met you and the girls, you guys changed me. I felt low and worthless, and you guys picked me up again, and I’ll always be grateful for that. But, I always had those voices in my head still telling me that I still wasn’t enough. After Sunset broke us up, that really tore me down. I thought you guys would never leave me, but all it took was one small misunderstanding to break it apart.”

“I was lonely, but I had to pretend like it was all okay. I’ve always been paranoid that things like that would happen again. I think that if I tell myself how great I am all the time, that I’d actually believe it, but deep down I never do. Big Macintosh actually pushed those thoughts away, AJ. He made me feel like I was worth being your friend, that I was worth being with him, that I was worth it in general.”

Rainbow shifted a bit on her bed and her voice became tight.

“The first time I told him about how I felt and when he told me how there was nothing wrong, I knew that he was important to me, just like the rest of you girls. That’s why I was so afraid of telling you. I wanted you to see how important both of you were to me, and I wanted you to accept it. I didn’t want our friendship to go up into flames and I didn’t want to lose him either.”

“But n-now he’s gone. It sounds so stupid but I feel like I lost a piece of me. He gave me strength and hope and now it’s gone. I can’t even be mad at you, because you were just looking out for our friendship. I was being a terrible friend and didn’t realize how I was acting. I didn’t deserve Mac. I don’t deserve to call you girls my friends. I d-don’t even know w-what to think anymore.”

By now, Rainbow was full on sobbing. Applejack had climbed onto Rainbow’s bed and hugged her tight, tears beginning to form into her eyes as well.

She had no idea that Rainbow had felt like this at all. Rainbow had always been smiling and bragging about how amazing she was. She didn’t know how much their friendship meant to her and neither did her relationship with her brother. Rainbow had felt terrible, and it’s all because of a few things she had said because she was angry. She couldn’t believe that she had actually felt relieved at first when she had heard that the pair broke up. She couldn’t believe that she had thought Rainbow wasn’t loyal enough.

“Ah’m so sorry, Sugarcube.” Applejack mumbled into Rainbow’s hair, “Ah’m so, so sorry.”

Rainbow continued to cry in Applejack’s arms. It had been years since Applejack had comforted her friend like this and she never thought that she’d had to.

Rainbow sounded just like how she did when she was younger. She was in the exact same position that Applejack had found her in when they had first met. Applejack remembered seeing Rainbow curled up behind the tree, crying her heart out. Applejack decided to talk to her and offered her friendship. It seemed like it was what she needed at the time. Rainbow’s attitude and competitiveness would soon grow on Applejack, and the two had been best friends since.

Applejack looked at Rainbow, who had begun to quiet down.

“Dash, my brother still loves ya.”

Rainbow didn’t respond.

“He only broke up with ya because he didn’t want to see ya hurt. He loves you, Dash.”

“I don’t know, AJ. He didn’t look that upset at school, he’s probably over me already.” Rainbow croaked.

“No, Rainbow. That’s only because he’s just like you. He keeps it all in like a dummy ‘till he can’t deal with it on his own anymore. He’s just as upset as you are.” Applejack explained.

“Ah talked to him earlier, and Ah told him that Ah was sorry. But he was wrong to break up with ya. As you said, you were already upset that we fought. When he broke up with ya, that made things ten times worse. His heart was in the right place, but he wasn’t thinkin’.”

Applejack smirked a bit and looked at her friend.

“Besides, if he were over ya already, Ah don’t think he’d be here right now,” she said a little loud so that Big Macintosh would hear. The orange haired teen opened the door and looked at his former girlfriend.

“Hey,” was all he said.

Rainbow’s lip quivered and she responded with a simple, “Hi.”

Seeing her so upset clearly hurt Big Macintosh, and he quickly rushed over to the two of them.

“Ah’m so sorry about everythin’, darlin’. Applejack’s right, Ah shouldn’t have broken up with ya. We could have figured somethin’ out together.”

“Did you want to break up with me?” Rainbow asked.

“No! No, of course, Ah didn’t. Ah never wanted to break up with ya, Dash. Ah’d never let ya go that easy.” Big Macintosh explained and reached out to hug Rainbow.

Rainbow threw her arms around Big Mac and a single tear slid down her cheek.

“Rainbow, do ya think you could forgive us?” Big Macintosh asked.

Rainbow looked at both Big Macintosh and Applejack before smiling a bit for the first time all day.

“Sure,” she said, “Only if you could forgive me, AJ.”

After receiving a confused look from Applejack, Rainbow continued.

“I never meant to ignore you or leave you out. I should have been more aware of you and the girls. I’m sorry.”

“It’s all good, ya doofus.” Applejack smiled and hugged her friend, happy that everything seemed okay again.

“You should probably get cleaned up, Dash. Ya look terrible.” Applejack smirked.

Rainbow groaned. “I know I do,” she said and got up from her bed, “If you two tell anyone about how much I cried, I’m going to kill you.”

“Darlin’, there’s no need of being ashamed. It’s normal to be upset over a breakup.” Mac said, back hugging her.

“I know, but crying doesn’t fit my image,” Rainbow whined and rubbed her eyes.

Applejack smiled as she saw the Rainbow she knew return. She felt relieved that everything seemed to be going back to normal.

“Mac?” Rainbow called.

“Yes, darlin?” Bic Macintosh smiled at Rainbow.

“Does this mean that we’re back on?”

Big Macintosh laughed at the seemingly stupid question.

“Come here and Ah’ll answer that for ya.” he said, grabbing Rainbow and pulling her into a kiss.

Applejack pretended to gag and smiled as she teased the couple.

“Get a room you two.”

Rainbow stopped her session with Mac to answer Applejack.

“We’re in one, genius,” she said before turning back to her boyfriend.

Applejack laughed and smiled as she gladly turned and left the bedroom.

Author's Note

I know this is shorter than what it should be and I’m sorry that it took a while to get this out! I got a little excited with my new story, and I’ve been sick lately, not really wanting to do much. :pinkiesick: But I’m better now and I’m back to writing!

Don’t forget to share your thoughts! Next chapter will most likely be the final, so we are wrapping things up with this story :fluttercry:

Until my next update! Bye! :heart: :yay:

The Best Secret She's Ever Kept

“So, you’re really staying here, huh?” Rainbow smirked, leaning in the doorway of the barn in Sweet Apple Acres.

Months had passed since Rainbow Dash and Applejack made up. After Rainbow and Big Macintosh got back together, the two both made an effort to try and make a schedule for themselves and their responsibilities. Rainbow Dash and the rest of the girls were able to spend time together again, and things worked out fine. Applejack and Rainbow Dash had gotten closer than ever before, and the young athlete still made frequent trips to the apple orchard.

It was now a few weeks into the summer. Big Macintosh had graduated from Canterlot High, and both his sister and his girlfriend were happy to attend. Big Macintosh never planned to go to college from the start, as he believed that his family needed him more. It didn’t seem possible, but it seemed like he and Rainbow fell for each other more and more. They’ve honestly grown as a couple and weren’t obsessed with seeing each other every second of the day, yet they still cherish every moment they do have together.

Rainbow’s smiles began to grow bigger every time she had seen him and the way they looked at each other said it all. Applejack could tell that there would be no end to the relationship anytime soon. Big Macintosh had still stuck with his plan to stay with his family, and Rainbow was pretty happy with his decision, but like Applejack, she always made sure that this is what he really wanted.

Both Applejack and Big Macintosh were straightening up some things in the barn when they heard Rainbow’s voice.

“What do ya mean ‘Ah’m really stayin’ here’? Of course, Ah am.” Big Macintosh smiled as he turned around to face Rainbow.

Rainbow’s smirk turned into a serious frown and she walked over next to Applejack. Her rainbow hair swinging back and forth behind her. She crossed her arms and looked into Big Macintosh’s green eyes.

“Mac, seriously,” Rainbow said, “You really didn’t want to do anything? You had nothing you wanted to achieve?”

Applejack nodded with Rainbow and looked at her brother as well.

“Yeah, ya didn’t have to stay for us. We’d be happy seeing you happy y’know?” Applejack added.

Big Macintosh walked over and put an arm over each of the girls, smiling.

“Y’all do know that it’s a bit too late for me to do anything about this if Ah wanted to right?” he smirked, “But I told y’all countless times. The only things I need to be happy is my family and the two of you.”

Rainbow leaned into the hug more, as she was too short to lean on his shoulder. Applejack playfully punched him in the chest.

“Alright enough,” she said laughing, “What happened to you?”

“Ah never changed,” Big Macintosh winked.

Rainbow took a seat on the hay and leaned her back against the wall.

“So, Dash, what brings you around here today?” Applejack asked her friend.

“I just wanted to pop in. I was kind of bored and thought I could come over,” Rainbow looked at Applejack, “I didn’t interrupt anything, did I?”

“No, darlin’. You’re fine.” Big Macintosh smiled and Applejack laughed as she watched Rainbow’s cheeks redden. Rainbow never seemed to get used to that nickname and Applejack knew that she secretly loved it. Applejack was right, even after almost an entire year, every time Mac would call Rainbow by that nickname, she couldn’t help but feel extremely happy and embarrassed. She didn’t like that she would get flustered over something so small, but the feeling was so great.

Applejack looked at Rainbow and noticed that there were slight bags under her eyes, yet she still smiled.

“Rainbow,” Applejack started, wanting to get right to the point, “Everything alright?”

“Yeah, of course, I am.” Rainbow didn’t hesitate to answer.

“Ya jus’ look a little tired that’s all,” Big Macintosh said, noticing as well.

“Oh...yeah I’ve been up all night helping Rarity,” Rainbow stated simply.

“Doin’ what?” Both Applejack and Big Macintosh said in unison.

“She asked me to help set something up in her boutique. She fell asleep after a few hours and I decided to just finish the rest so I wouldn’t have to come back. By the time I was finished, I had to head to Fluttershy’s to help her with some animals.”

“So you haven’t slept?” Big Macintosh asked, his green eyes full of worry.

“Well, not recently, but it’s okay. I’ve gone longer.” Rainbow crossed her arms.

Applejack was about to protest but noticed Big Macintosh tense up next to her. She eyed her brother as his eyes seemed to widen just a bit, yet he kept his composure in front of Rainbow.

“If you say so,” Applejack told Rainbow, “Um, Mac and Ah still have a bit of chore to finish up, do ya think you can wait here for about fifteen minutes?”

“Yeah, sure.”

Applejack turned to meet her brother’s confused face.

“But, Ah thought we were done-”

“No, Mac, we forgot some remember?” Applejack said through clenched teeth, trying desperately to get her brother to take a hint.

“Applejack, we checked and double checked-”

“Big Macintosh!”

“Yes Applejack?”

“Outside. Now.” Applejack rolled her eyes and walked out of the barn. The two walked farther away so Rainbow wouldn’t be able to hear anything.

“What’s goin’ on sis?” Big Macintosh asked a smile was slapped onto his freckled face.

“Well, first of all, ya need to figure out when Ah’m tryin’ to be sneaky,” Applejack rolled her eyes and adjusted her hat, “But don’t think Ah didn’t see you get all scared in the barn. What happened?”

“Oh..uh. Ah almost forgot that it was our nine-month anniversary.” Big Macintosh said, his cheeks turning as red as the t-shirt he was wearing.

Applejack stood in shock for a moment.

“Y’all celebrate those kinds of things?”

Being in a relationship did change Rainbow, Applejack had to admit, but even with most of her changes, Rainbow would still think that it would be silly to celebrate even the smallest of things. She still isn’t comfortable with public affection. She would barely even hold Big Mac’s hand whenever they went out together.

“Rainbow doesn’t like it when Ah bring it up or do somethin’ for her. She thinks that we should celebrate the more significant milestones,” Mac said, scratching his orange hair nervously, “but Ah still try to do a little somethin’. Even if it annoys her.”

“Well, what do ya plan to do?”

“Ah have no clue, Ah was thinkin’ maybe I’d let her choose.”

“Well, then c’mon.”

Applejack and Big Macintosh headed back into the barn, finding Rainbow half asleep on the bale of hay she was sitting on. They both decided that it was best that if they had kept quiet, allowing Rainbow to fall asleep completely.

“So what now?” Applejack whispered as she gestured for Big Mac to leave the barn.

“Ah was thinkin’ somethin’ calm. She likes calm and quiet, even though it may not seem like it.” Big Mac stated.

“Wait, really?” Applejack raised an eyebrow, surprised to be learning something about her friend. After knowing her for years, Rainbow’s never given off that vibe.

“Eeyup!” Mac nodded.

“Well, we can ask the girls to hang out by the lake at the back of the orchards, by the CMC’s treehouse.” Applejack suggested.

“And what do we do then?” Big Macintosh asked.

“Well, then we decorate the area a little, Ah’ll ask Pinkie and Rarity if they can bring food. It could be a small get together!”

“That...actually doesn’t sound too bad.” Mac began to smile as he thought about Applejack’s idea.

“Ah told ya! Now, Ah’m gonna start callin’ up the girls. You can start decoratin’, but also keep an eye on that thickheaded girlfriend of yours. You never know what she’s up to.” Applejack smirked and pulled out her phone.

Applejack stood and looked around at the scene in front of her. By the lake, the trees surrounding it were decorated with rainbow-colored banners with green apples in the center of each. She had managed to bring a few picnic tables to the area, in which Rarity placed some red tablecloths on top. Pinkie had begun placing various baked treats onto the tables and jumped around in excitement.

“So, where’s Rainbow?” Sunset came up to Applejack crossing her arms, “Isn’t she supposed to be here?”

“She fell asleep because she was up all night helping the diva over there,” Applejack smirked and pointed at Rarity. The purple haired girl turned her head and made her way over to the two.

“Wait, are you saying that I robbed Rainbow of her beauty sleep?!” she looked concerned, “She told me that she was going to be fine!”

“Ah know, and Ah think she was...she just crashed that’s all.” Applejack smiled, trying, and failing, to comfort her friend.

Pinkie Pie hopped over to the trio as well, dragging Fluttershy next to her.

“Hey girls! Everything is all set up and we’re ready to start this party!” Pinkie beamed.

“Pinkie, Ah told ya this isn’t a party. It’s just somethin’, Mac wanted ta do for Rainbow.” Applejack deadpanned.

“A party is a party, Applejack. You can’t change my mind!” Pinkie smiled again before bouncing off to bug Twilight.

“I brought Angel...if you don’t mind,” Fluttershy said quietly, pulling the white rabbit from her bag.

“O’ course Ah don’t mind, the more the merrier.” Applejack smiled and pet Angel, only to be met with a hard glare.

“Hey Twi, do ya think you can get Rainbow for me?” Applejack called and watched as the clever girl turned around to look at her.

“I guess I can, she’s in the barn right?” Twilight asked, pushing up her glasses. As she saw Applejack nod, she began to jog to go and get her rainbow-haired friend.

Applejack stood chatting with her friends when she saw her brother heading over to the area as well. He looked around and his green eyes lit up at the decorations.

“Wow...AJ this looks amazing.” he gushed and ran a hand through his honey-colored hair.

“Where were ya?” Applejack asked her brother. He had been missing for the past few hours and was just returning.
“Ah had to go and get something. Ah’ll give it to Rainbow when she comes.” Big Mac explained, his cheeks turning a light shade of pink.

“Aww, he’s so sweet!” Rarity cooed.

Applejack adjusted her brown hat before turning to find Twilight and Rainbow walking towards the lake. Rainbow still looked a bit tired, but she did look more refreshed and rested than before.

“So, what does AJ need help with aga-” Rainbow started to ask Twilight before she looked up and saw everything set up. By now, there was music playing, the tables were full of treats and food, and the trees were fully decorated.

“What is this for?” Rainbow asked with wide eyes, looking at the scene laid out in front of her.

“Well, Big Mac went an’ told me that it was y’all’s ‘nine-month anniversary’, and he wanted to do somethin’ for ya. So, Ah asked the girls to see if they wanted to hang out for a bit so y’all can celebrate.” Applejack explained to Rainbow.

Rainbow rolled her eyes but couldn’t help a large smile from forming on her face.

“I told this dummy that I’m not into celebrating things like this,” she said through her smile.

“Hiya Dashie!” Pinkie suddenly popped in and wrapped Rainbow in a tight hug.

“Hey Pinkie,” Rainbow laughed a bit and hugged back.

“I made your favorite! Red velvet cupcakes! Come on, let me show you!” Pinkie smiled before taking Rainbow’s hand. Rainbow didn’t get a chance to protest as she was dragged by Pinkie to one of the picnic tables.

Applejack laughed and sat down near the shallow body of water. She looked over and found Rainbow laughing with both Pinkie and Twilight. Applejack thought about how much Rainbow had changed over the past year. She doesn’t snap at people as much, her temper calmed down dramatically. Rainbow hasn’t felt the need to constantly praise and brag about herself all the time any longer, it’s possible that she’s actually comfortable with herself now.

Rainbow’s grades improved as well, and she continued to perform better in class. She became more energized and stressed less. Rainbow had become more patient and overall, she became a happier person.

Applejack was snapped out of her thoughts when she felt that her hat had been lifted off of her head.

“Hey Freckles,” her raspy voice greeted, “You’ve been quiet for a while. Everything okay?”

Applejack felt Rainbow sit next to her. Looking over, Rainbow had the hat on her own head and her magenta eyes stared directly into Applejack’s.

“Yeah, everythin’ is alright.” Applejack smiled a bit. The smile slowly faded away as she thought about what had happened months prior. Rainbow never meant any harm, yet Applejack almost destroyed everything for her. Their friendship could have crumbled, both Rainbow and Big Mac would still be hurting, and nothing would have ever been the same. All because of her concerns.

Rainbow noticed Applejack’s shift and became concerned.

“AJ, seriously. What’s up?”

Applejack looked down.

“Ah just can’t believe Ah almost ruined everythin’ before. You really didn’t deserve ta feel like that, Rainbow.”

Rainbow’s eyes softened a bit as she listened to her friend.

“Hey, don’t sweat it. Like Sun Shim says, the past isn’t today.” Rainbow nudged Applejack with her elbow and smiled a bit.

Sunset Shimmer walked by and heard the mention of her name.

“Preach!” she said smiling and walked over to talk to Twilight.

Both Applejack and Rainbow laughed a bit before Rainbow continued.

“But, I wasn’t thinking either. Remember?” she said, biting her lip.

“Ah’m just glad everythin’ is okay again. Ah really do support the two o’ ya bein’ together, you know that? Y’all really do make each other happy. This is the happiest that Ah’ve ever seen ya. Ah say it all the time now, but Ah think that you are perfect for my brother. Ah’m glad that he found someone to make him happy, and Ah’m glad that someone was you.” Applejack said, smiling at her friend.

“What did I tell you about making me act sappy?!” Rainbow sniffed once and turned away, listening to Applejack laugh.

“Thanks, AJ.” she finally said after she wiped at her eyes a bit.

“Hey girls,” a deep voice came from behind. Both girls turned around to see Big Macintosh standing behind them then sitting next to Rainbow.

“Hey Mac,” Rainbow smiled and blushed when he kissed her cheek.

“What did I tell you about small things like this?” Rainbow asked him, referring to the party.

“Ah jus’ wanted to celebrate how long we’ve been together, that’s all,” Mac stated and handed Rainbow a small frame.

“What’s this?” Rainbow raised an eyebrow, examining the frame.

“Turn it over,”

Rainbow turned the frame over to see a picture of the two. Rainbow had one arm thrown around Mac while the other was used to make a peace sign. She winked as she wore the largest toothy grin. Her boyfriend held her close as she smiled as well.

Big Mac smiled down as he watched Rainbow grin a little.

“This was taken on-” he started but was cut off by Rainbow.

“Our first real date, I know.” she finished and stuck her tongue out, “You’re so cheesy I think I might be sick.”

Big Mac laughed and pulled Rainbow close.

“Ya love it. Ah know ya do.” he smiled.

Rainbow looked at both her boyfriend and her best friend sitting beside her and couldn’t help but smile. Looking around, she saw the rest of her friends laughing together and having a good time.

She made contact with Fluttershy’s teal eyes, and smiled and winked at her oldest friend. She received a warm smile back from the timid girl. Rainbow was extremely happy being surrounded by those who she loved and those who loved her. She had everything she could ever ask for. She had loving, supporting friends, an amazing boyfriend, and does what she loves.

Rainbow threw an arm around both Applejack and Big Macintosh and pulled them close.

“You know I love you guys right?” she said, looking at the two of them.

“We love you too, Dash,” Applejack smiled and hugged back.
“Hey! You guys are having a group hug without us?!” Pinkie growled and jumped in, squeezing the trio.

It wasn’t long before the rest of the girls chimed in and joined the hug as well.

The day ended with everyone laughing and having a great time. Rainbow watched as everything seemed perfect. She had kept many secrets throughout her lifetime, but this one had been the best one she’s ever kept.

Author's Note

It’s finished! This story has been my most successful on this site, and for my first attempt at a chapter book, I am so happy! Thank you to everyone who followed by this story and liked it. I am beyond grateful!

(I do have an idea in mind for a possible sequel... :trixieshiftright: but, that’s only if you guys would like one. How does a sequel sound?)

Once again, thank you! And I’ll see you all next time! :yay:

Just Something In The Hair

While finishing up her chores, Applejack had begun to think about her friend and her brother. Both of them had started to behave differently at around the same time! However, Rainbow Dash and Big Macintosh were completely different people. Rainbow was loud, brash, and energetic, while Big Macintosh was quiet, shy, and calm. There was little to no possibility that the two sudden changes could be linked together. That wouldn’t stop Applejack from finding out what exactly has gotten into the two of them though.

By the time Applejack had picked her final apple, it was around five o’clock. If she was lucky, she’d be able to jog over to Canterlot High and catch Dash before she had headed home. All she had wanted to do was apologize for making Dash so upset that morning, and possibly even find out what’s been causing her change in behavior.

After wiping the sweat off of her brow, Applejack tightened her blonde ponytail and adjusted her boots, ready to sprint back to school. She had seen some of the boys on the soccer team leaving from the front door, which gave Applejack hope that Rainbow was still there. She headed towards the soccer field to find Rainbow kicking the ball into a goal all by herself. Her rainbow hair was in a high ponytail, and she wore the Wondercolts’ team jersey. She jumped and cheered for herself as she successfully made the goal, her ponytail bouncing with her. To be honest, Applejack found her actions quite cute, and she wore a smile on her face as she approached the young athlete.

“And the crowd goes wild! Wooo! Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash!” Rainbow had her eyes shut and her arms thrown into the air in celebration.

“Havin’ fun there, Superstar?” Applejack smirked. While she wore a smile, deep down she was afraid that Rainbow was still angry with her. In the past, whenever the two had a small argument, Rainbow would hold a grudge for ages, and this time would probably be no different.

Rainbow turned around and when she had seen Applejack, the smile she wore never left her face. In fact, Applejack had thought that it grew.

“Oh, hey Freckles! What brings you here so late? I would have thought you’d be back home making out with your precious apples.” Rainbow said as she went to retrieve her soccer ball. She smirked at Applejack after she made her joke.

“Very funny, shorty,” Applejack grinned as she watched Rainbow’s smug smirk turn into a pout. Rainbow was a lot shorter than Applejack and the rest of the girl’s, and Applejack had always taken the opportunity to pick fun at the shortest girl in the group.

“Ah just came over to see if you were still mad at me.” Applejack looked at Rainbow.

“Oh that? Nah, I got over that way back in seventh period.”

“Ah’m sorry?” Applejack must have heard that wrong. Rainbow wasn’t still mad at her? She had come thinking that Rainbow would chew her out more, but she just let it go? Rainbow never let go of things that easily or that fast, no matter how small or big the issue was!

“Yeah, I wanted to talk to you before I came to practice but Pinks and Rare told me that you went home.” Rainbow continued, kicking the ball in between her feet.

“Well yeah. Ah had chores to do. Ah just came back to apologize for how I was actin’ earlier. Ah didn’t mean to make it sound like Ah didn’t want you around, Ah’m just not used to seein’ you so early in the mornin’, ya know?” Applejack gave Rainbow a small smile, hoping that she’d understand.

“Yeah, I get it. I’m honestly surprised in myself too. I would have never thought I’d ever be early to Cranky’s English class,” Rainbow had a disgusted look on her face which caused Applejack to chuckle, “Which leads me to my next point. I’m sorry too. I kind of exaggerated a bit today and made you feel guilty for something that isn’t even that serious. I should have just let it go earlier and shouldn’t of acted like that.”

Rainbow stopped kicking the ball as she spoke and looked at Applejack, who seemed to be having trouble forming words. She couldn’t believe that Rainbow Dash had actually apologized! When it came to these issues, Rainbow was so stubborn and would never apologize for anything. Something was definitely going on with her and Applejack was going to find out now, just a little different this time.

“Hello? AJ? Freckles? You still with me?”

Applejack blinked and saw Rainbow’s hand in her face, looking concerned.

“You okay? You totally just spaced out for like five minutes!” Rainbow exaggerated.

“Ah just can’t believe it.” Applejack said dramatically.

“Believe what?”

“Did the words, ‘I’m Sorry’ just come out of your mouth? Ah didn’t even know that phrase existed in your vocabulary!”

Rainbow responded by playfully punching Applejack in the shoulder.

“Shut up, Applesmack.”

“Seriously, who are you and what have ya done with the real Rainbow Dash?”

“Um, she’s standing right here! There is no one awesome enough to replace this.” Rainbow playfully smirked.

“Couldn’t have fooled me.” Applejack scoffed.

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“Come on now, Ah’m not the only one who has seen you change. You are like a completely different person.” Applejack smiled. She wanted to provoke Rainbow and get her angry enough to keep the conversation going, but toned it down a bit so the conversation didn’t end like it did that morning.

“Really?”

“Eeyup!” Applejack mimicked her older brother, and noticed that Rainbow smiled a bit at the reference.

“Prove it then.” Rainbow crossed her arms in front of her expecting an answer.

“Well, there’s the obvious change. You are coming to school earlier and on top of that, you aren’t as grumpy as before when ya walk in.” Applejack explained, and while Rainbow did seem to be paying attention, she couldn’t help but watch Rainbow’s magenta eyes dart back and forth, as if she were looking at something behind her.

“Go on,” Rainbow pushed, looking behind Applejack.

“Then, you aren’t callin’ Twi an ‘Egghead’ as much. You haven’t teased her at all today. Not once!” Applejack continued.

“I’m listening.” Rainbow replied, looking behind Applejack quickly again.

Applejack tried to continue, but was bothered at the fact that something must have been going on behind her.

“And when Rarity asks you- Okay that’s enough, what’s behind me?” She started to turn her head to find out, but instead was met with two hands grabbing at her face and turning her back around.

“Nothing! Nothing! It’s just...uh...you have something in your hair that’s all. Here let me get it for you!” Rainbow said frantically, her face almost in a panic-like expression. She reached towards behind Applejack’s ear and pinched at something in her ponytail before quickly flicking it off of her finger, “Okay, I got it.”

Applejack stole Rainbow’s soccer ball from under her feet and began to play with it herself before picking it off the ground.

“Just somethin’ in my hair, huh?” Applejack raised an eyebrow, showing Rainbow that she wasn’t convinced.

“Yup..” Rainbow forced a laugh, almost blushing from embarrassment.

“Yeah...okay. Ah gotta get back to my chores now. Ah’ll talk to ya about this tomorrow, ya hear?” Applejack said slowly.

“Cool! See ya later, Freckles.” Rainbow turned to go grab water from off of the bleachers, while Applejack turned and began to walk out, Rainbow’s soccer ball still in her hand.

It had taken Applejack a few moments to realize that Rainbow’s soccer ball was still with her, and she was only a few steps away from the school. Applejack figured it was best to just give Dash her ball back at that moment, rather than waiting until the next day. So, she headed back into the school and went towards the field, expecting to see Rainbow still by herself. However, she was met with a shocking surprise.

There, in the middle of the soccer field, stood her older brother Big Macintosh. He seemed to be having a friendly conversation with Rainbow Dash. Applejack watched from behind some bleachers as her brother and Dash laughed and passed the soccer ball he had brought between one another. She noticed Rainbow getting red in the face at times, but not out of embarrassment. The pair each seemed to be enjoying the others’ company. Applejack smiled as she watched her brother and her friend play with each other. She couldn’t grasp why her brother wanted this to be a secret.

However, the smile that was spread on her face quickly disappeared as Mac came closer towards Dash and they began to talk. As Rainbow made a comment, she began to get flustered and started to ramble on about nonsense. Applejack watched in horror as her brother cut Rainbow’s rant off with a deep kiss on the lips. Rainbow didn’t seem to mind as she smiled into the kiss and wrapped her arms around Big Mac’s neck.

She quickly and stealthily made her way out of the soccer field and back home to Sweet Apple Acres. Rainbow was going to have to get her soccer ball another time.