Author's Note

Hello, everyone, and welcome to the first chapter of what will be a three chapter fic. Commissioned by the lovely Elsaack, this first chapter was fun to write and I'm excited to bring you the other chapters as they're completed.

Some mild content warnings for references to drinking and drunkenness, stuffing, and slight weight gain.

Chapter 1

For someone in her line of work, Canterlot garden parties were a regular occurrence.

Rarity, since those early days when she worried that her humble origins would ruin her business, had grown accustomed to them. Learned the ins and outs with the help of her friends, her clients, and the connections she made along the way. Her work spoke for itself after all, and the ponies that might have once spurned her simply couldn’t.

Rarity tried not to find satisfaction in that, in what her work and position as Twilight’s friend offered her, but it was hard not to grin whenever somepony looked a little uncomfortable when she mentioned Ponyville, or the small country schoolhouse Sweetie went to.

Tonight was no different, surrounded by a mixture of ponies who both loved and hated her. Rarity tackled each challenge with a grace she knew Twilight envied. Rarity was respected, at least. So most of the snide comments weren’t pointed anymore, so much as they were part of the song and dance of these parties.

Still, she decided, eyes scanning this small section of the Canterlot Palace Gardens, it could be worse. She knew this area well, and the parties here were always excellent. Using her magic, she lifted a flute of sweet, bubbling champagne to her lips and took a sip. Nodding along, only truthfully half listening to the dull story Fleur de Lis was trying to tell.

Fleur was beautiful, as always, but she had a bad habit of telling the same stories over again when she was a little drunk. And she was, having overindulged on the champagne with an empty stomach again, if Rarity had to guess. But it wasn’t so bad.

What Fleur lacked in conversation skills at the moment was greatly bolstered by her current happiness. Gesturing with her champagne flute as she talked, a genuine smile tugging at her lips, it was moments like these that cemented the fact that Fleur was indeed a pony and not just an accessory the elite used to further their cause.

And, if Rarity was being honest, it was nice to see Fancy Pants relax a little too. He knew Fleur was safe with Rarity, leaving him free to go gather some non-alcoholic punch and some food for them both without worrying something would happen.

Most of the big names were accounted for. Fancy Pants and Fleur, Sassy Saddles, Photo Finish, Prim Hemline, Hoity Toity, Spoiled Rich, and Filthy Rich. There were a smattering of others, but they were more likely to be customers or clients rather than potential business partners and connections. In fact, Rarity did her best not to squint at a mare a few tables over. She was sure that was one of her dresses from the Canterlot Carousel.

It was just past dusk, the sky still stained brilliant pinks and reds from the sunset, even though the sun had disappeared behind the mountain peaks. It was mid-summer, still warm in spite of the cool breeze carried by the city’s many waterfalls and fountains.

Rarity was dressed in a robin’s egg blue dress made of smooth silk. It was tighter around the bodice, the neckline encrusted with dark blue sapphires. The dress was sleeveless, allowing her more free movement than some of the outfits on display. The skirt was a little shorter than usual as well, showing off her legs and the end of her tail. It wasn’t too hot, wasn’t too revealing, all without being too flashy or too understated.

Perhaps not one of her finest pieces of work, but the devil lay in the details, and the details were where she excelled.

Somepony cleared their throat gently, stopping Fleur mid-sentence. Fleur looked a little put out, but for only a moment before stepping away, mumbling something about going to find her husband.

Princess Celestia easily slid into the space Fleur had vacated. “Your eyes were starting to glaze over.” Voice pitched low and quiet, just for the two of them, a soft smile tugging at her lips.

Rarity blushed, sputtering, “I-I’m sorry, princess, it was terribly rude of me-”

“It was the yacht story again, wasn’t it? About how Fancy almost got tossed off the side? Or was it the one where the stage ponies didn’t change the lights and ruined the outfit she was modeling?”

Rarity felt the sudden spike in anxiety and worry die down a bit at Celestia’s nonchalance. “It was the yacht story.” She admitted. “I try to listen, I do. But she already told me about it tonight.” Looking around to ensure that Fleur did in fact find her way back to Fancy Pants before allowing herself to relax.

“Good, then. I would feel bad if I had interrupted something important.” Celestia wasn’t dressed any more than she was normally, with her regalia and nothing else. “When Twilight wrote to tell me you were in town, I knew you would be busy, so I hope you don’t mind me monopolizing your time here.”

“Oh no, it isn’t a problem at all, Princess. It’s an honour.” Rarity smiled easily, taking another small sip of her champagne. “Is there anything I can do with you? Or are you here to talk?”

“A little of both, I’m afraid. At least this time it isn’t an emergency.” Celestia replied. “In fact, I was hoping to commission you for a new line of clothing.” Voice still quiet, not wanting to attract the attention of anypony else quite yet.

Rarity blinked, trying not to let her nerves or excitement get the better of her. “Me, princess?” She asked, her voice suddenly weak.

“I could think of nopony more qualified.” Celestia’s tone was soothing, her easy smile still in place. “It’s an odd request, but it’s an...unsettling trend, I’ve noticed. The plus sized population of my kingdom is severely lacking in high fashion, since the trend is for ponies like Fleur.”

Fleur, who was ethereal in beauty and body shape, the envy of most anypony who laid eyes on her. The elite were much the same, with little variation. Even Rarity, keen to keep her figure in the name of fashion, followed diets and regimes to keep slim. Thinness was in vogue, and that was reflected by what was on offer in the high street boutiques around Equestria.

Rarity nodded, “That...is a fair point.” She took commissions of course, as did others, but she wasn’t aware of anypony making a plus sized clothing line.

Celestia nodded, “It is, perhaps, a bit of an odd favour to ask of you. If it’s outside your comfort zone-”

“Fashion exists to push ponies out of their comfort zones! Art, true art, should shock and awe. In dazzling shapes, colours, and types. Size shouldn’t get in the way of that.” Rarity shot Celestia a grin. “I’d be happy to do it.”

Celestia’s easy smile returned once more, “I’m glad to hear you say that, Rarity.” She looked down at the table they were standing at, and her expression shifted a little.

Rarity had picked up a few hors d'oeuvres, but had neglected in eating them. For much the same reason Fleur had. The offerings, while delicious, could pack on quite a number of calories that Rarity simply didn’t have the time to burn off while in Canterlot.

“Come now, surely you can indulge a little? This will be a rather...profitable commission for you. We’ll need to discuss a price, of course, but that can wait until later. Why not celebrate?” Celestia pointed out.

Rarity thought about it for a moment, but conceded. There was no harm in celebrating a little bit, not when this deal with Celestia could be so profitable. Both from whatever payment they agreed upon, to how the public reacted.

If plus sized ponies wanted to look fabulous, then they were sure to come once she’d announced the line.

Using her magic, Rarity started to eat through her tiny plate of snacks. After finishing her champagne, Celestia ordered them a bottle of wine to celebrate.

From there things got a little blurred, Rarity wasn’t too proud to admit to herself later. What had started off as a mild celebration rapidly spiraled into a larger one. Thankfully, by the time the sun had set fully and Luna had raised the moon, the party was officially over. Leaving Celestia and Rarity together to celebrate alone.

By the time the bottle of wine had been emptied, mostly by Rarity, she’d also eaten a decent number of the remaining hors d'oeuvres. Her stomach was packed tightly with them, bloated and aching with every breath she took.

“You know,” Rarity said, as she and Celestia started to walk back to the castle proper, where Rarity had a suite. The walk was slow, Rarity needed to move gently so not to jostle her overfull stomach, “I’ve always wondered why ponies felt the need to be so thin. Maybe-“ she hiccuped, “It would be a good idea to stop being so strict about my own diet.”

“It might be freeing.” Celestia intoned, “To not worry about it.”

Rarity nodded, clearly mulling it over, even as she struggled not to trip over her own hooves, “It could be.”

“Why don’t you join me tomorrow for a dessert tasting? It’s not an official event, but I like providing reviews for some of the best cafes and bakeries around town, as it helps boost their business. Especially for local spots or nervous chefs just starting to work in the palace kitchens, it can help a lot.” Celestia suggested.

“Oh, that sounds wonderful. I didn’t have any plans for tomorrow, so this works out marvelously.” Rarity turned a dazzling smile to Celestia, “Thank you for the invitation.”

“It’s no trouble. There are times I enjoy solitude, but sometimes it’s nice to attend these sorts of events with friends.” Celestia returned the grin easily. “So I should be thanking you.”

Rarity nodded, lapsing into silence as they grew nearer to the castle.

Celestia followed suit, happy to enjoy the companionable silence as they walked together.

(LINE BREAK)

The next morning, Rarity awoke in her suite to a pounding headache and a letter sealed with the royal insignia.

The headache was easily dealt with, with some water and a few aspirin, but the letter wasn’t so easy to deal with. She’d gotten drunk last night, but not blackout thankfully, and didn’t think she’d said anything too embarrassing.

The conversation with Celestia weighed on her, though, pun not intended. Rarity, still sipping a cup of water, let out a slow sigh and broke the seal. The parchment unfurled, revealing a short written note.

Rarity,

I hope the morning finds you well, and that you’re not suffering from your indulgence last night. In case you’ve forgotten, you’ve agreed to meet with me today later this afternoon. Please come to my private study at 1pm.

Sincerely,

Princess Celestia

Rarity stared at the letter for a few moments, brows furrowed, before recollection hit her with the force of a brick being thrown through the air.

The dessert tasting. A dessert tasting with Princess Celestia herself. The mare who raised the sun, who ruled over Equestria, and had a well-known fondness for sweets.

Rarity sat back in her chair with a sigh, setting the letter down. She’d originally intended on using the day to look for inspiration for a new line, but a delay wouldn’t hurt-

New line. Plus sized ponies. Rarity finished the last of her water as she thought it over. It was a good idea, but a little odd for Celestia to notice. Her own thinness was part of why it was in fashion, or at least that was the common theory.

A knock broke through Rarity’s train of thought, and she got up in time for the door to push itself open. A pegasus stepped in pushing a cart in front of her. She was blue, with turquoise mane and tail. Her mane was cropped short, curling about her ears and the back of her head, while her tail was left to grow longer and was straighter.

The pegasus was middle aged, and unlike most pegasi that Rarity had seen, was rather...rotund. She was broad, with bulging flanks, chubby cheeks, and a stomach that swung beneath a wider barrel as she walked. Even her wings looked soft and chubby.

“I hope I’m not interrupting, but Princess Celestia asked me to bring some food to this suite. You must be Rarity, I’m Sea Shores. I work in the kitchens here at the palace.” Shores smiled, dimples appearing in her chubby cheeks.

Rarity sat back down in her chair, watching as Shores pushed the cart over. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, darling. I am Rarity.”

“Everyone here calls me Shores. Old habit, the chief cook from when I started was a Sea Breeze, but then she changed it to Cinnamon Swirl.” Shores shrugged, “By the time she’d changed her name, I was already known as Shores, so it stuck.”

Rarity nodded, “It’s understandable.”

“Exactly.” Shores grinned. “Now, here’s this. And-” Using a hoof to manually put the brakes on the cart before continuing. "Your meal.” Leaning over to remove a silver dome with her teeth, she presented an expertly prepared eggs benedict. Rich and delicious looking, with the garnish in just the right spot. Toasted english muffins, with a crispy layer of thinly fried potatoes, and then the eggs, lightly poached.

The smell was amazing. So much so that Rarity missed the fact there was juice on the tray as well.

“If you don’t want that, I’ve got some fruit and yogurt here as well.” Shores said. “I know you’re a fashion designer, so I thought I’d give you the option.”

“Oh, this looks lovely, thank you.” Already, Rarity’s stomach was grumbling, hunger gnawing at her. She chewed on her lower lip for a moment, remembering her conversation with Celestia the night before. “I’ll have the benedict, since you went to all the trouble.”

Shores beamed. “Wonderful, I hate seeing ponies go hungry. Always think it’s a shame to see the models going hungry just because it’s in vogue. Fashion changes all the time, no need to torture yourself for it.”

Rarity didn’t think she was torturing herself, but she wasn’t going to argue. “Thank you again for the food. I do appreciate it.”

“Of course! If you’re going to be staying here for a while, I’m sure I’ll see you again.” Shores grinned. “I’ll get out of your mane though, so have a good morning. Somepony will be by to take the cart later.”

Rarity nodded, waiting until Shores had left, before turning her attention back to the food on the tray. Mind still churning over her impulse decision the night before. Using her magic, she picked up her utensils and started to eat. The food was delicious, the hollandaise was rich and wonderful, the potato layer was crispy and provided a wonderful texture contrast to the beautifully poached eggs.

She was clearing her plate in fairly record timing, leaning back in her chair with a contented sigh. It was rich, heavy but delicious. Besides, just because she was loosening the restrictions on her diet didn’t mean she was going to change all that much, it just meant she was going to enjoy herself, enjoy the food she was surrounded by on a daily basis.

Rarity got up, then went to the bathroom. If she wanted to be presentable to Princess Celestia, she had to get ready for the day.

(LINE BREAK)

Rarity hardly knocked on the door before Celestia’s yellow magic was pulling it open.

“Come in, Rarity, please!”

Rarity stepped inside, and was blown away by the sight inside. Private study was right.

Shelves lined the walls, crammed full of books and scrolls. A large desk was off to one side, while a comfortable looking sitting area was close to a fireplace. There was a door on the opposite wall made of stained glass that showed off a connecting balcony. It was beautiful, spacious and warm in terms of decor and temperature. Plush rugs were underhoof, and while the room screamed of Canterlot’s excess, it also spoke of a very busy mare.

Celestia was sitting on one of the couches, with what looked to be a huge spread of food in front of her on a coffee table, alongside a steaming tea service.

“Forgive me for being late,” Rarity offered a nervous grin, going to sit on the couch across from Celestia after the princess gestured for her to do so.

“You’re not late at all, in fact I’m a little early. It’s not often I’m accompanied in my tastings. Usually Luna is asleep and many of the ponies here are busy with their work. Since this is part of my work, no matter how enjoyable it is, I often tackle it by myself. So my excitement might have gotten the better of me.” Celestia offered a smile. “Tea?”

“Yes please.” Now that Rarity was sitting down and feeling a touch more relaxed, she chanced a look at the contents of the table. Delicate chocolates, rich pastries, and some of the best made candy were spread across the coffee table. From macarons, to croissants, to taffy, and everything in between. Even a few slices of cake were present, standing upright on delicate looking plates. “Oh my.”

“I know it looks intimidating, but it’s worthwhile.” Celestia grinned, “Now, should we get started?”

Truthfully, Rarity was still a little full from breakfast, but she’d agreed to this and wasn’t going to back out now. Besides, some of the offerings looked so good, it would be a shame to forgo them.

Celestia took a macaron, and Rarity took a truffle. Falling into silence as they chewed, clearly thinking while they ate. Rarity couldn’t speak for the macarons, but the truffles were delicious. Rich, sweet, melting on her tongue from the moment she’d popped it into her mouth.

Without speaking, Rarity and Celestia then reached for the opposite treat. The macarons were nice as well, but privately Rarity would always prefer the truffles.

From there, Rarity chose at random, humming to herself as delicious flavours danced across her tongue. Occasionally she or Celestia would make a comment about an item, prompting another tasting, but that was the only words that were spoken for some minutes.

Until, bloated and full, Rarity leaned back against the couch with a soft whimper. Rubbing at her distended stomach in the hopes of soothing the ache there. She hadn’t meant to, but she’d overdone it. The skin was stretched tight, her stomach packed full of food, making her ache all the way through to her spine.

Celestia frowned softly at that, looking concerned, “Oh, Rarity, come now, you can eat more than that can’t you?” Her horn lit up, and she selected a pain au chocolat, levitating it in front of Rarity’s muzzle. “You haven’t tried this yet.”

Rarity let out a groan, rather unladylike she’d reflect later, but dutifully she opened her mouth and ate it. It too, like everything else, was delicious. Pastry sweet and flaky, rich and buttery, while the chocolate was smooth and silky.

Celestia’s smile returned at that, “Good job. No point wasting so much if we can help it. Besides, adding just a few more things won’t matter too much. Your stomach is like an overcrowded ballroom, but we need to make sure all the important guests get in anyhow.” Using her magic she brought a chocolate to Rarity’s mouth.

Rarity continued to eat. Little morsels spread out across minutes, Celestia’s tender voice helped keep her grounded while she battled with a bulging stomach and a sense of fullness that was so eclipsing she wasn’t sure how her lungs had the room for her to breathe.

Finally, finally, her stomach let out an almighty grumble. Churning as it struggled to process and digest the load of calories it certainly had little experience in dealing with. Rarity was rubbing her stomach all the more insistently now, needing to help stop the pain jolting through her belly.

“There we are.” Celestia praised, “I knew you could do it.” There were things still left on the table, but Rarity was astounded to find how much of a dent she’d made in the offerings. Many platters and plates were decorated with nothing more than crumbs.

Celestia bowed her head, and Rarity felt the warmth of the magic wrap around her body. A teleportation spell.

And suddenly, she was back in her suite. Propped up in her comfortable bed, still whining softly as she tried to soothe the pain in her bloated, distended stomach.

Celestia had come too apparently, standing at the edge of the bed. “Relax, my little pony. All is well.” Lifting a hoof and reaching over to rub Rarity’s stomach. Her hoof was larger than Rarity’s two, and that made a difference. She also seemed to know what amount of pressure to use. Pain and pleasure mixed as Rarity let herself relax, her stomach still hurt, but at least it was being seen to. “Just relax.”

So Rarity did. The heavy weight of her stomach, and the amount of food she’d eaten, made her feel a little fuzzy. Limbs heavy and weak as her blood rushed to her stomach, leaving her feeling tired.

Celestia continued her ministrations until Rarity succumbed to her food coma, and left the fashionista to digest in peace.

(LINE BREAK)

Late that night, Rarity made her way through the halls of Canterlot Castle. It was nighttime, and the castle was mostly empty aside from a few guards.

She shouldn’t be hungry, there was no way for her to be hungry. Not with the amount of food she’d eaten, but somehow she was. Her stomach rumbling, still a little bloated, but no longer painful. So, Rarity made her way down to the kitchens. Following the twisting corridors into the belly of the castle, where most guests wouldn’t dream of going.

Eventually though, she found them and stepped inside. Not entirely sure what she was going to find, but hoping that she could find or make something small.

The kitchens were huge. They were likely a series of interconnected rooms, each with their own purpose, or a series of designated purposes. A cooler area for things like pastries, while the ovens were kept in this first room. The ovens lined one wall, while counters and tables were overloaded with other tools. No ingredients were left out overnight, but the fridges were right there-

“Hi, can I help you?” A familiar voice called, and Rarity stiffened. What if she wasn’t meant to be here? Was that allowed?

She didn’t know, but she was already here, so she took a deep breath. “Hello? I’m looking for something to eat.”

Shores, the pegasus from earlier, trotted out from the doorway at the far end of the room. “Hello again! I wasn’t sure I’d see you again so soon. I thought that breakfast would’ve been more than enough.”

Rarity couldn’t help but blush a little at that, feeling suddenly a little tongue tied. “I-well, normally it would be. I usually keep a careful watch over my diet, but...somepony pointed out that it might be beneficial to not do so. Even if only for a while, and see what happens.”

Shores looked Rarity up and down at that, looking curious. She nodded, “That’s fair, no point in going hungry I’ve always thought. Seen too many forgo small joys in order to fit in better, and honestly the small joys is where you can find the most joy in life.”

Rarity nodded, “That’s wise.”

“My son is chronically ill,” Shores shrugged, “We’ve both had to grow up in the face of that, in ways that most others don’t get a chance to, I think. So I really don’t see why ponies put their happiness on hold for silly things like fitting in.” She shook her head with a rough sigh, “But you and I aren’t here to talk about that. You said you wanted something to eat, right? I was just about to make myself something, if you wanted to join me. It’s nothing too exciting, just some aglio e olio: Pasta, oil, some parmesan cheese and some seasoning.”

Rarity blinked, she’d had that before and it was quite good. Her stomach rumbled, and she couldn’t help but feel a little embarrassed at this display of hunger. “Yes please, if it isn’t too much trouble.”

“Oh none at all. Come on, feel free to join me.” Shores turned and led the way through the first room and into another. There were more ovens here, and Shores clearly had ingredients laid out in preparation to make her own dinner. “It’s a little unusual I’m the only one here, usually there are a few of us, so I’m glad for the company.” Gesturing for Rarity to sit on a stool near enough the stove that they could talk, but far enough away she wasn’t a safety risk.

“Well, I’m glad I found my way here then. Don’t want anypony getting lonely.” Rarity smiled, sitting down primly.

Shores nodded, “Exactly.” She had a pot already on the stove, full of water which was boiling. Happily, Shores added pasta to the water and gave it a stir, then set a timer. There was also a pan on the stove, which she then lit the burner for. “Shouldn’t take too too long, honestly the longest part is the pasta.”

Rarity nodded, “It seems simple enough.”

“It is. Part of why I like it. It’s simple enough we can whip it up in twenty minutes, if not sooner, but it’s fancy enough it doesn’t look like it.” Shores grinned. “Half the fun, honestly, is having a good recipe you know to wow people if you’re having them over for dinner.”

“I see the appeal. I’m trying to teach my little sister how to cook.” Rarity sighed, remembering the burnt...everything. “It’s not going especially well.”

“They grow out of it, the burning things.” Shores laughed, “Or sometimes they go through a phase of undercooking things. Least my son did, though he’s grown out of it now. Could probably work here if he wanted to, he’s got the talent.”

“What does he do, if you don’t mind my asking? Sweetie is still in school.”

“He’s a researcher. A part time teacher with Celestia’s School. He’s good at it, and they fit into his schedule better than this job ever could.” Shores sighed wistfully, shaking the pan around to spread the oil across its surface. “Still, he usually makes dinner for us both. Which I appreciate. He’s out in Trottingham giving a lecture on the effects of magic on pony evolution, hence why I’m here making this now. I know if I leave and go home I probably won’t end up making dinner, and he’d get angry about it later.”

Rarity chuckled, “That sounds amazing. He seems like an interesting character.”

“Interesting is one way of putting it.” Shores snorted, “But I love him, he’s my kid, and that won’t change. Be glad when he’s home, but for now I’ll enjoy the peace and quiet around the house.”

“My sister lives with me most of the time, better school and more fillies her age, so I understand. Whenever she goes home, it’s so weird, but oddly relaxing.”

“Yeah, you get it.” Shores nodded, “Glad for it. Can I ask what you’re doing here? Most of us know you from Princess Twilight’s adventures, the stained glass windows and stories, but it’s not often we get to speak to ponies like you.”

“Well, I came here for inspiration initially, and I had some social engagements to attend.” Rarity sighed, “I came to oversee the premiere of my new fashion line as well, based on summer colours. Then Celestia asked me to do another project, so now I may be here for a little while longer to work on that.”

“New projects are always interesting. Glad you can find inspiration here. City is apparently good for artists, with all the art and sculpture and water features.”

“It is, the stained glass helps as well.” Rarity admitted.

“Can you divulge what the Princess wants you to do, or is it secret?”

“Well...she was hoping I could make some clothes for plus sized ponies.” Rarity admitted. Shores was certainly plus sized herself, and Rarity didn’t want to make her uncomfortable.

“Oh.” Shores turned to look at Rarity thoughtfully. “That would explain...things. Celestia...well, she comes from a time when food scarcity was a real issue, so I’m not surprised she’s noticed the lack of accessibility in terms of plus size clothing.”

Rarity let out a quiet sigh of relief, then paused, “Scarcity?”

Shores nodded, “Ponies still starved sometimes, back then. So having some extra weight was seen as more beautiful oftentimes. A show of wealth, health, and status. So I’m not surprised she wants to see some changes in the industry.”

“Huh.” Rarity said. She hadn’t thought of that. About how Celestia’s foalhood might affect her now, as an adult. That...could explain why Celestia was so intent on Rarity eating. But that couldn’t be it, could it?

If Shores noticed the blush spreading across Rarity’s cheeks, she didn’t say anything. Simply turned her attention back to the food. The timer went off, and she set about reserving some of the pasta water before she drained the noodles.

Things happened quickly after that. Garlic was added to the hot oil, then spices, and then the pasta and pasta water. Shores stirred the mixture before adding cheese and mixing again. Before she was dividing the resulting pasta into two portions.

“Here.”

Rarity accepted the pasta easily. It was simple, yet smelled amazing. “Thank you.”

“It’s no trouble.” Shores dismissed. “Just glad to help.”

The pair ate in relative silence, and Rarity was pleased to note that the pasta did fill her up. Rarity helped Shores clean up their mess, before they left the kitchens together.

“Would you...be willing to help me?” Rarity blurted, “I mean, I’m going to need some measurements to help me come up with a plus size fashion line, and I’m not a candidate.”

It was Shores’ turn to blush at that, her cheeks stained scarlett, “Really? Me?”

“You can say no, I don’t know your schedule and all. I-I’m sure I can find others, but-”

“No, no.” Shores interrupted. “I’d be honoured, thank you.”

“I’ll pay you,” Rarity said. “I don’t mind, even just to give you a copy of your dress of choice when it’s all said and done.”

“I’d appreciate that, thank you. It’s..well, I’ve never been a thin mare. I enjoy cooking and eating too much.” Shores brought a hoof up to rub at her stomach, sending it rippling with the motion, “So it can be a challenge to find nice clothes. I’m free tomorrow?”

“Excellent. You know where Canterlot Carousel is, yes? Meet me there tomorrow afternoon, please.”

Shores nodded, “Of course, thank you.”

“No, thank you, my dear.” Rarity beamed. “I’ll see you tomorrow!”

(LINE BREAK)

Canterlot Carousel had changed as Rarity’s businesses did. She still had the same space, purchased and paid for unlike the one in Manehatten, which gave her more control. But she liked to change things up every now and again.

Once the business was established, she and Sassy had worked out that Sassy simply couldn’t run the business by herself. What if she got sick? Or hurt? Then Rarity would be forced to keep the boutique closed, or come rushing to Canterlot to run it herself, which would leave the Carousel Boutique in Ponyville closed.

Sassy had suggested another employee, and Rarity was all too happy to oblige.

Sapphire Days was an excellent employee. She was a hard worker, a pegasus, and had an excellent taste in fashion. She was also in a wheelchair, her wings bound to her barrel by daring sashes to keep them safe and protected. She had helped Rarity in making a line of wheelchair friendly dresses, and those were still some of Rarity’s favourite projects.

Sapphire looked up from behind the counter as Rarity came in, brightening noticeably when she recognized her boss, “Rarity! Hello! I wasn’t expecting you until tomorrow!”

Sapphire had a robin’s egg blue coat, with white mane and tail. Both of which were cut short for ease of convenience. The wheelchair made it so she was standing, her hind legs held off the ground, resting in a little silk strap to keep them comfortable.

Today, the sash keeping her wings in place was a daring, dark shade of purple. Rarity immediately approved.

“Sorry for barging in, darling.” Rarity grinned, “But the Princess has commissioned me herself! For a line of plus size clothing.”

Sapphire blinked, then smiled, dimples forming in her cheeks and drawing attention to her slight double chin. She wasn’t as heavy as Shores if Rarity were to guess. And the front half of her body was well muscled, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t chubby. Actually, as Rarity moved in behind the counter, it was possible Sapphire had gained some more weight recently.

Sapphire’s stomach hung from a wide barrel. And the rest of her was just soft looking, curving outward into soft rolls and folds.

“That’s wonderful!” Sapphire beamed, she leaned down to grab a sketchbook from behind the counter, “I have so many ideas-”

“And I have a model coming to join us.” Rarity grinned, excitement starting to course through her system at Sapphire’s giddiness, “So we have some measurements to work with.”

“You can use me too.” Sapphire pointed out. “I’m on the smaller end, I’m pretty sure, but I don’t mind asking around. There are others who would want to be included, I’m sure. DIfferent body types, different weights, that sort of thing.”

“With you and Shores, our model for today, I think that gives us a good starting point.” Rarity agreed, “But you’re right. If you could talk to some of your friends, we’ll see where this takes us.”

“Exactly.” Sapphire nodded, nosing open her sketchbook and flipping through to a blank page. She started sketching immediately, soon lost in her work.

Rarity giggled, and started to gather what she would need for Shores’ arrival. They had work to do, and there was no time like the present to get it done.

(LINE BREAK)

Several weeks later, and Rarity was once more sat across from Celestia in her private study. Watching the Princess as they ate together. As Rarity’s stay in Canterlot was extended, they’d decided to meet more regularly.

Rarity, because Shores’ words to her in the kitchen kept ringing in her ears, and Celestia...well, Rarity could only guess why Celestia wanted her there weekly for these sessions. The food was always delicious, better than some of what Rarity would have ever thought possible, but still.

Calorie laden desserts had a way of making themselves noticed on a mare’s figure, and Rarity was no exception. Her month long stay had softened her figure noticeably. No major rolls or folds yet, just an overall smoother appearance. Slightly chubby cheeks, and a double chin when she looked down notwithstanding.

Rarity wasn’t sure what annoyed her more: how good she still looked, or how much she enjoyed the feeling of growing softer by the week. She hadn’t yet dared weigh herself on the scales yet, she was a little worried that having her weight be confirmed like that would set her back onto her diet, but she knew she was heavier. The clothes she’d brought with her just weren’t fitting the same, too tight to rest properly against growing curves.

“Thank you again for the invite, and for allowing me to stay so long.” Rarity said, nibbling on a cookie while she sipped at some tea. They’d been eating for a while now, and she hadn’t yet grown full. If she noticed the increase in stomach capacity, she didn’t let on.

“Any friend of Twilight is a friend of mine. Besides, it’s the least I could do considering all you’ve done for Equestria.” Celestia smiled. Somehow, in spite of all the sweets, she was as unchanged as ever. Ethereal, thin, with lean musculature that only added to her beauty. Unchanged as she ever was.

“Still, I appreciate it.” Rarity finished the cookie, and reached for an eclair. “I hope I’m not causing too much trouble.”

“No, none at all.” Celestia soothed, “I have more than enough rooms in this place that I can spare your suite for now.”

Rarity nodded, taking a dainty bite. Trying not to blush as her stomach rumbled hungrily.

The smile on Celestia’s face grew slightly at the grumbling. Though she didn’t yet say anything about it. Or about the new...layer to their relationship. What had been fairly formal, was now growing far more casual. These weekly dessert tastings were only the basis of their new friendship. Celestia sent Rarity rich breakfasts every morning, and they wrote regularly. Rarity had even stopped by to join Celestia for tea a few times a week, and enjoyed eating herself full at every opportunity.

She was glad she and Pinkie had stopped Zesty Gourmand, she could admit that now. As fancy as the food had been, the food offered on Saddle Row (and beyond) was now substantial and with flavour. Beautiful in its own right, even if things weren’t perfect by some arbitrary standard.

“Thank you, by the way, for the recommendation to that bakery. The bagels were as good as you promised, and I tried a few other things as well. Their brownies were much larger than I expected.” That had been almost a mistake. The brownies had been huge and much more filling then she'd realized, and had ended up gorging herself almost to the point of throwing up because she hadn’t wanted them to go stale.

Still, delicious and fudgy, well worth the effort, but that afternoon had not been productive.

“You’re very welcome, Rarity.” Celestia beamed. “I’m glad you enjoyed yourself. I know how intimidating the city can be, so I’m glad to help point you in the right direction.”

“We should go somewhere together, before I leave next week.” Rarity squeaked out. Did it count as a date if Rarity didn’t know if Celestia had feelings for her? Did it count if Rarity still wasn’t sure what her feelings toward Celestia were? She wasn’t sure, and didn’t feel comfortable asking.

Celestia’s smile didn’t change, but she did nod. “We should. Where did you have in mind?”

“Well...I went to Tasco’s the other day, like you suggested, and their Neightalian food was delicious?” It was the first place that came to mind, and Rarity mentally kicked herself. It was a fancy restaurant, sure, but not exactly romantic.

Celestia thought it over, and nodded, “That sounds a wonderful idea. I think I can make it work, probably Wednesday?”

Rarity let out a sigh of relief. “Wednesday works for me. Afternoon?”

“Yes, that’s probably best. I can get away for a bit, not often I get to walk the streets at that time.” Celestia’s grin was crooked now, mischievous. “Thank you, Rarity, it’s not often I get to enjoy the simple things.”

“The simple things are important.” Rarity remembered Shores telling her that, during that first week. And she’d been right, the simple things did matter. So maybe, just maybe, this simple joy could lead to a far bigger one.

Rarity had to try at least, see where joy took her.