Adagio awoke and promptly realized that her bed was empty, just as it had been last night when she had closed her eyes. Why did she find that so unpleasant, despite it being exactly how she’d left the world before entering her slumber? The twin bed upon which she lay was not big enough for two; it was almost as if she was hoping someone else might have slipped in during the night and seen to severing her loneliness-

“Oh for heaven’s sake,” Adagio muttered, leaping out of her bed and moving towards the dresser so as to be clothed for the day. Had her union with Applejack been so impactful that her entire worldview had been shifted? It was almost as if she saw herself as one half a whole now rather than a whole person; there had been so much day that had passed by since then, so much of a night. Why was she thinking like this?

Because you’re in love with her and have zero guts to admit it, she soon realized. The self-confession wasn’t a novelty, nor was it welcome. Being in love with someone like Applejack was one thing, but being good enough for her was another- no matter what that perfect farmgirl said. A life together was far different from one night spent in the midst of perfection. There would be days neither of them could stand the other’s voice, or even to look at one another. What sort of person was she to understand what that was like?

But then again, she could find out. Adagio wasn’t sure how she felt about that rumination, preferring to spend more focus on getting dressed than further thinking. She’d pulled out another knee-length dress again, a garment she continuously found more comfortable than pants of any kind; floral in pattern, marked by the soft colors of wildflowers in bloom. Why, she almost felt the need to have a pair of knee-high boots to go along with them! The thought of how differently she was dressed made her spirit chuckle, Adago admiring herself in the mirror and wondering how her beloved would like the view. Who else was she getting dressed for, after all?

But then came the pause that rendered such happy thoughts adrift. Not for herself: she was doing these things for Applejack and not even thinking about it. She was trying to focus upon Applejack’s needs without thought of her own fears and concerns. Was… had she actually begun to be convinced that she might actually belong in this world?

“Oh! Mornin’,” Applejack muttered. Pushing through from her door and out into the open world as Abbot’s piercing crow ripped through the morning air and bid the family to arise, the blonde found her ginger sweetheart already within the bathroom and seeing to a measure of self-care. “You’re up early.”

“I just decided to get up, that’s all,” Adagio murmured, though she remained focused upon her reflection in the bathroom mirror. “I… do I look weird without makeup? Be honest.”

Applejack pondered the thought, but decided to simply answer with a shrug. “Been like that since you got here,” she said. “I like how you look, if that’s what you’re worried about.”

“But do I look better?” The Siren inquired. “What do you like to look at?”

“You, no matter how you look,” the blonde farmer answered. “Come on, now, I just woke up. Let me get straightened out, would you please?”

It was a fair request and one she was willing to oblige. “Sorry. Guess I’m a bit out of sorts today,” Adagio said, retreating from her reflection and turning towards the open hallway. “All yours.”

“Just a sec.” As the two crossed paths, a hand reached out so as to cup the face of the sweet Siren and bring her close, two pairs of lips uniting into a kiss that was so comfortable and familiar to them both. Even though Adagio had not been prepared for such a thing, the feel of her farmgirl upon her mouth was something she was entirely content with. Who else should be kissing her, anyway? “Morning, Dagi.”

“And good morning to you, Sweets,” Adagio replied. The swiftly chosen name from yesterday seemed to stick in her mind, a perfect fit for the young woman’s consistent optimism about her character. If Applejack was willing to be so affectionate, maybe she could try and be the bride this beauty imagined her to be. “I’m gonna go down and get breakfast going. Anything special you want?”

“Chocolate pancakes, with chocolate chips,” Applejack answered, and soon after giving herself a shake of the head. “Sorry- my Mama used to make them for me when I was a kid, and I guess you remind me of her a little. My bad.”

Rather than be perturbed, the young runaway felt her heart melt. Oh goodness, Applejack looked at her and saw a hint of her mother! Considering how reverential that title had been, the compliment was to be held in highest regard. “Well, I- I don’t quite know that one,” Adagio said, “But I bet Sugar Belle can help me out.”

It was a prediction that lived on to be true; from the moment her gingered companion gave voice to the idea, the sweet lady of Sweet Apple Acres was delighted to help egg on the blossoming romance between farmgirl and runaway in this small endeavor. Though she’d never done more with a pancake than put them in the microwave, Adagio carefully tended to her friend’s guidance as the skillet before her was made full with the proper ingredients. Goodness, the sugar in these flapjacks! How could one so strong and capable as Applejack eat them?

“There’s some Bailey’s in the pantry, too, by the way,” Sugar Belle added as Adagio tended to the rest of her Applejack’s morning meal. “It’s a great weekend treat for everyone.”

“Bai- isn’t that cream liqueur?” Adagio asked.

To her surprise, the frizz-haired woman only shrugged. “It’s made for coffee. Haven’t you ever had any? Add some yourself and see what you think!”

The result was a sweetness and creamy texture to a piping hot drink, Adagio finding herself in love with the texture and wondering what she’d been missing out on for all these years. The alcohol mattered not when the flavor and care of the beverage was now so delicious. Goodness, why didn’t she have cream in her coffee all the time?

“Wait, really? You’ve never had cream in your coffee before?” Applejack inquired over her mountainous breakfast plate, stuffed full with pancakes and bacon and eggs; considering the excellence of her provisions, this new normality was not something she seemed to have an issue with. “Goodness, we make our own, I’ll show you how sometime. The cream liqueur is just something extra fancy.”

“Would it- should I even bring it out? There’s still some work to do around the place, isn’t there?”

“A little,” the blonde farmgirl answered. “I told Big Mac yesterday you’d help him do a quick run-through of the orchards just to make sure there wasn’t nothing wrong. Beyond that, looking after the animals, and whatever else sorta nonsense around here needs doing… Saturdays are pretty easy. Don’t feel bad about what you’re drinking.”

“Shouldn’t be a lot of work to do, anyway,” Big Mac said, adding his voice in to the gregarious cacophony that was the Apple family’s morning meal. “We’re just gonna check the fences and on a couple of trees that need looking at. Not gonna be much.”

“I… I guess I kinda thought you all just worked hard every single day,” Adagio admitted.

“Only when we have to. Gotta know how to rest, too, if you wanna keep it up.”

Considering how exhausted she’d continuously felt, Adagio had all but assumed it was something one became used to in such a life rather than there actually being any sort of real time off. With a better perspective on her morning now gifted to her, the Siren was able to grin and bear the day’s duties with delight. Goodness, she’d be able to spend the day comfortably! What should she do? Just tend to Applejack and flirt with her favorite blonde? Be a giggly girl with Sugar Belle? Help Apple Bloom with the animals and enjoy the livestock’s company? There were too many options for her to be sure of what. Maybe after she was done working alongside the sturdy farmhand of Sweet Apple Acres, she might have an idea.

“Make sure to grab some gloves,” Big Mac said as he and their newest arrival strode towards the shed, breakfast now a thing of the past and work their current duty. “If we gotta work with wire, don’t wanna get your hands cut.”

“Where are they?”

“Hanging just above the tool box. Apple Bloom’s black pair oughta fit you.”

They were a bit snug, but more fitting for her dainty grasp than what Applejack’s could offer; Adagio slid into her seat alongside the eldest of the Apple siblings and let the cool morning breeze whip by her face as they raced out into the orchards once more. At least the prospect of brutal work was not very likely for them ahead.

“Sorry if I’m not as big a help out here,” Adagio said. “You’re probably used to doing all of this with Applejack there to help, aren’t you?”

Big Mac turned from his machinations at the wheel and eyed her with an expression of great surprise; for what reason, Adagio wasn’t sure. He considered her for a little longer before giving a shrug and saying, “You’d be used to it all if you’d done it more. Ain’t no fault in that.”

“Well… I guess we’d better hope nothing requires a whole lot of strength out here.”

“I’ve got enough for both of us. Just follow my lead.”

Thankfully –especially for Adagio, though she preferred not to admit it- there was little within the great maze of trees that required their attentions. Occasionally Big Mac would let the four-wheeler come to a halt so that he might check the condition of one of the apple trees, examining leaves, fruit, and trunk for signs of damage or infestation that she knew not. He performed his duty in silence and the action drove the Siren to a burning curiosity; just what was he looking for that she couldn’t see? His diligence was remarkable, but it wasn’t fair that she couldn’t help.”

Perhaps the burning stare she possessed bored a hole into him, for Big Mac turned from his work and over to his companion to say, “Looking for rot. If one’s got a pest, it’s usually best to check the tree itself.”

“Would they spread that quickly?” Adagio asked.

“They can. Then you gotta either clean the tree, or cut it down. Can’t let one poison the whole orchard.”

That felt like a biting comment against her. Adagio tried not to let the words wound too deeply; after all, they were a justified assessment. She could do a lot of damage to Applejack if she didn’t make the correct decision come sundown on the morrow. Why shouldn’t her brother be concerned that there might be a great bleeding of the heart to endure? It was better that she relent from her egotism and accept the criticism.

But to her surprise, the mighty farmhand took note of her glum countenance and added, “We can clean them up a lot of times. Might just take time. Only seen a few we actually had to tear down. Most just need a little love.”

“Or a lot of it,” Adagio added with a bitter chuckle. Why did she find that so funny, especially when it referred to herself?

“Still can get done,” Big Mac said. “Come on, we’ve got the northern fence to check. Keep an eye out for deer.”

This kindness the tranquil farmer showed her was disconcerting; Adagio had expected further ambivalence rather than this quiet acceptance; just what had caused him to change his mind about her? Or rather, had he actually changed his mind at all and instead this was a wicked sort of humoring? She wasn’t at all sure. But when this considered one who rarely had much to say…

“Umm… Big Mac?”

The sturdy giant looked over at his companion. “Eeyup?”

“Why are- is there-” She wasn’t at all sure how to start, lest she sound like an insecure fool. “Do… you don’t seem to hate me.”

In typical fashion, Big Mac only shrugged. “Never hated you. Had some ideas about you, but that was it.”

“But they weren’t good,” Adagio pressed, “And you even said you thought I’d ditch your sister. But you- you’re treating me like I’m alright now. Have you changed your mind, or something?”

He paused so as to consider the question for a time, taking what moments were available so that he might give a proper answer. It was something Adagio had come to rather like about the man; no matter what sort of answer you received, Big Mac would not give you anything less than his honest opinion. He was rather like his sister in that regard.

“Sugar Belle likes you,” he said at last, a statement so short that it may as well have been nothing at all.

That was the best he could do? “But Sugar Belle likes everyone,” Adagio said, “D- doesn’t she?”

“Yeah, but… not like that, I guess,” Big Mac said slowly. “You’ll get what I mean someday. Maybe. But she thinks you’re sweet on my sister.”

Not an untrue observation, considering what had transpired between she and Applejack only the afternoon prior. She could still recall the feeling of Applejack’s lips upon her own, caressing her skin and sending her spirit to exultation. Oh, just how good yesterday had been-

Through her recollection came a deep, slow laugh as Big Mac’s humor forced her back into the world of conscious thought, his heavy features alight with laughter that came at her expense, albeit good-natured. “I guess I was wrong about you,” he said with a grin, “My little sister is actually gonna win you over.”

Adagio blushed and tried to hide her smile, lest she give her whole self away. Two days was still plenty of time for her to make a sensible decision. “Oh, shut up. You don’t know what I’m thinking.”

The remark could only be answered with a dry and sarcastic response, which Big Mac was happy to oblige. “Because you’re so good at hiding your emotions.”

Adagio scowled but said nothing more; her comfort level with Applejack was not something that extended to her siblings just yet. If she somehow ended up staying perhaps she’d have enough familiarity- but for now?

“What have you liked so far?” Big Mac asked as they continued to drive along. Time amongst the orchard was good for slow conversation, the snail’s pace at which the mountainous man spoke a perfect tempo for both work and thoughts of the heart. “You ain’t experienced everything yet, but you know how the farm works. Sort of.”

Beyond Applejack? The question seemed a bit too broad for her to give any sort of definite answer, Adagio finding herself pondering the thought longer than what was likely considered polite. Sugar Belle was irresistibly pleasant and a buoy to one’s spirit, the serenity of the farm and its isolation from the wildness of the world was soothing to her soul. There was the comfort of a home-cooked meal, a family that genuinely loved one another, the sound of the birds as they flitted through the sunlit leaves, the sweet animals that inundated the farm- and Applejack… Adagio found it difficult to pin down anything particular out of her experiences, particularly when they still possessed a stain that was her personal melancholy. But she did love this place; just how was she to describe it?

“It’s safe,” she said, her words slipping free and surprising even herself. “Like… I’m out of reach. And nothing can get me here, even if it’s something I did. Does- does that make any sense?”

Big Mac nodded, a sorrowed tinge to his usually stoic features as he regarded the petite woman beside him. “You’ve had it rough, haven’t you?”

“It was all my fault, anyway,” Adagio replied. Best to just shrug away such sympathies, considering that she hadn’t earned any of them. None of her darkest days were tragedies.

“Doesn’t make it any less rough,” Big Mac remarked. “I’m sorry. You… ain’t told my sister yet, have you?”

The shake of her head came swiftly. “That’s a bad story to tell.”

“She’ll want to hear it because it’s yours,” the farmer countered. “You should try a little. Sometime soon, so she can help you get a little more better.”

“Even if it’s terrible?” Adagio asked.

“She’s already made up her mind; let her help you out a bit.”

There were so many stories to tell that the gorgeous Siren didn’t know where on earth she would be able to start. Her first pimp had been a nightmare, the day her sisters had been ripped from her a scene right out of Hell. There were such a cavalcade of horrid scars across her brain that deciphering which was easiest to explain was unfathomably difficult. Even if she knew where to begin, who was she to say which would be easiest for Applejack to bear?

But there had been last night. Applejack had seen so many scars and marks, disregarding them all and calling her beautiful all the same solely because of who she was. Maybe she was overthinking this; that perfect girl might just be willing to accept her no matter what.

“How is it out there? Anything we missed from the other day?” Applejack was there on the porch awaiting their return, anxiously eyeing her more experienced sibling as the two souls returned from their trek through leaf and limb. Despite her family’s insistence that she try to recover from injury, a full departure from the working mindset was too insurmountable a task for her to accomplish.

“Ain’t you supposed to be resting?” Big Mac said lightly, though the dry anger in his eyes was unmistakable.

“I can ask questions, so how’s it look out there?”

“Fine. Your brother showed me a little of what he was doing,” Adagio answered. “I didn’t realize just how much went into your life here.”

“Ain’t ever a true day off. There’s been times in the past where I didn’t get any downtime for months. Easy for it to happen during harvest.”

“And you do all the work by yourselves?”

“We hire extra hands for the season if we need to. No way we can get it all done in time otherwise,” Applejack said. “North orchard’s set for harvest come summer, so you’ll see what I’m talking about.”

“I guess I will, then,” Adagio murmured before she even realized what had slipped through, gaze flared wide at the realization of such a thought. Her subconscious was, despite her absolute insistence to remain aloof, demanding she become a permanent fixture.

For the blonde farmgirl, the simple statement was both a shock and delight. Adagio had been so consistent in her outlook upon the future, not daring to be swayed from her intent on an eventual departure. Even if the words were in jest or not her final answer, just to hear a hint of desire for belonging spoken aloud at last was like fresh rain upon the desert. For a time, those green eyes could only stare, lips remaining sealed even as they gave way to a strange sort of smile.

Big Mac, bearing no emotional attachment to the matter, merely gave his low rumble of a laugh and walked by as he said, “Told ya. I’m getting a beer.”

The unintended confession left the two women uncertain as to any next move. Applejack could not pounce upon such words without being seen as too aggressive, nor would Adagio try to deny them and instead provide a panicked credibility. Besides, how did she feel? Staying sounded wonderful even if it was a horrendous idea; she’d have to become so much more of a person than who she was now, and the effort it would take…

“I’m- I’ve been standing up for too long, I think,” Applejack muttered as a slight wince came to her freckled features. “Come on, sit down. You ain’t… really had much time to just sit and relax around here, have you?”

“No. No, you’re right, I haven’t.” Adagio hadn’t realized as such yet, more time spent in consideration of this wonderful woman and half a million other things. Downtime only meant more opportunity for her brain to wring itself dry with endless fretting; why bother to be still? But Applejack was beckoning for her, that casted foot clunking against the old wood of the spacious porch as she toddled over to the nearby rocking chair and slowly leaned back. A seat meant for just one, and an action she couldn’t have taken unwittingly. After the slight give the Siren had let slip, this beautiful girl was providing no further pressure.

“I don’t know if I’ve ever seen you just be still,” Adagio said. The sight of her beloved simply lying in the aged chair and allowing motion to tilt her back and forth was strangely warm to her heart; perhaps there had been countless of her kin before her who’d done the exact same, quietly resting after toil and labor and pain, finding their mind made happy by something so simple. “What do you do when you’ve got no work to do?”

“I… I’m good at playing cards a lot,” Applejack answered, musing over her answer as the gorgeous Siren came to stand by her side. “Me and Apple Bloom would have a few games that would keep us going. Or we’d all play a board game together. Or play music… and dance. Sometimes we don’t really need to do much of anything.”

“You just be…”

Applejack smiled. “And enjoy the view,” she said, with a gesture to the countryside that sprawled out before their eyes. Gleaming shades of deep green of vegetation, the simplicity of quiet and serenity dotted only by the sounds of nature and beasts of burden, all of it held together beneath a brilliant sky of blue that glowed with light. It was something simple, likely so common to the freckled beauty that the sight could be seen as little more than a daily norm. But it was home, and that transformed it into something priceless.

Adagio said nothing for a time that saw quiet hours pass by, letting the scene simply be soaked in. For the first time in so many years, she was in the midst of a place where she could feel safe. She’d only ever known the lights of urban industry, of concrete jungles and darkened pits of sensuality that had been her realm just as it had been her prison. Never, not even once, had she ever considered that such a withdrawal away from the screaming cacophony of human vice would be how she could take a new step forward. She could breathe here, let the clean air fill her lungs, let wind pass by her ears and sing to her soul the song of this world and all its life. There was no reason for her to leave- to ever, ever go back. And if she wanted to stay, she didn’t even have to remain here alone.

“I didn’t know you knew how to dance.”

Too heavily occupied with nothing at all, Applejack’s serene trance was broken by the remark. “Hmm?”

“You said your family would play music for you to dance to,” Adagio explained, eyeing her beautiful blonde curiously. “Where’d you learn?”

“Oh! Uh, Granny and my folks taught me, mostly,” Applejack answered. “You know. Square-dancing, line dancing, stuff like that. Pretty easy, so long as you don’t think about yourself too much. It’s a lot of fun when the whole family’s together –and I mean everyone, all the cousins and such- and we get everyone playing music and have just big groups of folks together. It’s- well, you’ll see. Soon enough.”

“Well… I don’t really know how to dance,” Adagio remarked. A teasing grin was upon her lips as those green eyes peered up at her, shrewd in their guess as to where she led. “I’m afraid I’ll just have to pass on that offer, I think.”

“Oh, no you don’t. I can remedy that just fine,” Applejack grunted, rising back to her feet and taking the ginger-haired beauty in hand. “Now, we’ll just try something real simple first…”

Adagio knew she shouldn’t be happy. Ever since their first true moments together, one-on-one and away from the companions who could so easily distract them, she had been a poison in this wonderful woman’s life. Applejack’s attraction had been bought with money and ensured by effort; she’d never let a client find her anything but desirable before, why should she have been any different? Even though there had been a spare few moments where the sweet girl had behaved of her own accord and struck deep to the vulnerable woman within the shell, it had never been a real thing. What the farmer had fallen for was a puppet, a role meant to seduce and be enjoyed… and then discarded; there was no substance to love within it. Yet here she was, even years later, amidst this familial sanctuary and requested simply to be at peace and enjoy herself. Adagio was asked to be a part of a family, to allow herself to be loved, to simply belong- all the things she shouldn’t be allowed. And even now, here she was with the gorgeous, strapping young woman who she’d so unintentionally ensnared all those years ago, learning the simple footwork of a dance. She shouldn’t be happy, but happiness was all she could feel about her now.

The Saturday passed them by so peacefully. For one who had been so keen on activity to keep her unhappy mind occupied, the first moments of true nothingness were a bit difficult for Adagio to endure. She’d spent the entire week hard at work until it seemed all her energy had been burnt down to the most finite crisp; a whole day dedicated to the artistry of doing nothing at all made her mind feel ill at ease. Wasn’t there a task she could perform? Something she could do? Even simple invitations that games and camaraderie provided seemed to pale in comparison to her disquiet. But the longer it endured –and the more Applejack urged her to relax- the easier the task became. A simple lunch saw the family come together from their various modes of recreation for a time, and then onwards to what beckoned for their fancy next. And for Adagio, the thought of a nap didn’t seem so bad.

“Need me to grab anything for you from upstairs?” The ginger Siren inquired as she marched up the steps.

Applejack mulled over the question and let slip an answer that she swiftly seemed to regret. “Eh… there’s a book on my nightstand? Wait, but you don’t have to-”

“I’ll grab it, don’t worry,” was her assuring reply, not at all discomforted by the thought of providing for her blonde beloved. Try as she might to ignore the sensation, acts of love felt too good for her to resist. Surely Applejack didn’t think it was too much to ask of her!

“But then again…” Adagio knew it would be impolite of her to laugh so loudly, but the text within her grasp practically begged for her mirth: a romance novel! Not even a Jane Austin classic or of a similar like, but some modern, vapid piece of trash that didn’t even offer the slightest ounce of titillation to offset its mediocrity. What on earth was that brilliant farmgirl doing in reading such a thing as this?

It was of little surprise to find Applejack out on the porch and of an unease composure, a slight tinge of pink beneath her freckles as a sideways glance caught the smirk playing across the ginger woman’s face. Both knew the joke too well to make any remarks upon it; better to not expound upon the subject in depth.

“Why did you even buy it?” Adagio asked, settling in beside her girl on the porch swing and dropping the paperback into the blonde’s lap. “I’m surprised you can even keep reading it.”

“Something from Rares I borrowed, way back when,” she admitted. “A bit after you left. I kinda got in… a mood? I guess would be the way to put it. She thought it was cute and gave me it to help out a little. A pick-me-up.”

“Oh.” It was the first time she’d heard Applejack mention their names since she’d returned; perhaps a strange thing, considering how close they’d all been. But Apple Bloom’s words resurrected themselves within her mind… “Do you see her any, still?”

“Rarity? Every now and then, when she’s in town,” Applejack answered. “We’re friends whenever we’re around one another, but… you know, we don’t really keep up a ton. It’s just fun to cross paths once in a while.”

She hoped she wasn’t prying, but the prior conversation with the youngest Apple spurred her to keep going even still. The catalyst for a great deal of the young blonde’s life had been- well. “What are your friends up to, nowadays?”

Applejack pursed her lips for a time. “Dunno about some of them,” she admitted. “I talk to ‘Shy some. And Pinkie a whole lot, too. They’re the only ones who stayed in town, everyone else is- elsewhere, I guess. Just what happens when you grow up.”

Please don’t say it. “I- I heard they didn’t like your being fixated on me much…”

The truth was preceded by a sigh. “A little. When Rainbow and Twi broke up, yeah- Rainbow got bitter about it for a while. Sunset didn’t like it much either, but she thought I was being stupid about it all. Kept trying to convince me it was all just about the money.”

“She would’ve been right, back then,” Adagio murmured.

“Even after your note?” Applejack challenged calmly. “You say it like you’ve changed your mind.”

“I have. I gue- know. Sometimes I know,” the beautiful Siren said, struggling to give a truthful answer while balancing her emotions. “And sometimes I can’t make up my mind. I’m… I know that’s an awful answer.”

“Is it the honest one, at least?”

“I think so.” A partial truth, perhaps? The whole? So much of her common sense seemed to be at war with the desire that had been growing all week long, a festering growth that refused to be swept away despite all her mental efforts to the contrary. She’d hoped to remain a recluse and keep away, not allow an ounce of temptation to seep in and, in doing so, fool her. But she had begun to plant her roots in the earth of this farmland haven and even allow it to feel like home. She’d made connections- a friend, even! How was she supposed to know what she wanted when rational sense and heartfelt desire refused to cede to the other?

“Then just… don’t feel any pressure,” Applejack murmured, an arm coming about the gorgeous Siren’s waist and bringing her in close. “Even if this was only for a little bit, I did enjoy having you here. It’s nice. All… all I really wanted, honestly.”

Me, too. But Adagio kept her lips sealed and chose to simply lean her head against the blonde’s sturdy shoulder, closing her eyes so as to see the afternoon pass by without her.

It weren’t as though she needed the short period of slumber for any sense of rejuvenation; weekends as lovely as this one simply demanded that she find a time for slumber beneath the noonday sun. Applejack’s sturdy frame made for comfortable sleeping, and just enough body heat to counter the cool breeze that would sweep past the porch every so often. This small moment of rest was exquisitely lovely amidst all the nothing they’d accomplished, Adagio’s awakening coming forth comfortably and leaving no hints of drowsiness within her eyes.

A quick check of her surroundings came soon after, habitual action performed subconsciously; the sun was starting to lose its might, a weakness to the afternoon light as it crept closer towards the horizon. The shade of the porch was going to hold for just a short time longer until the stellar ball would lie low enough to spill across the ancient wood slats. Judging by the sound of Applejack’s breathing as she lay beside her, the farmgirl was still comfortably asleep; Adagio found no reason to wake her and let her head lean back against her shoulder. This was a sanctuary amidst all the noise and chaos and monstrosities of the world, and there was nothing that could possibly hope to persuade her otherwise. To be at Applejack’s side was the safest place in the world, for there was no one in the whole breadth of existence that would ever love her so fiercely.

To her ears came the slow, quiet creak of the screen door and out poked Sugar Belle. The frizzy girl must have known they were outside and sleeping, for her movements were cautious and performed with care. One short glance at Applejack before turning to find the Siren now awake, and to her did she give a warmhearted smile. Such a simple sight meant nothing to the uninitiated, but Sugar Belle knew just how deeply her sister-in-law had desired these small acts with the one who now dwelt beside her. There was little room for sweeping acts of romanticism upon this farm, no grand gestures that would set the whole place aflutter- but for quiet kisses, tender touches of the hand, and the comforting presence of a love one beside you were always welcome.

One step forward and Sugar Belle did the best she could to let the door close slowly, taking continued care not to awaken the still-slumbering blonde; turning back to face them, Adagio found she carried a glass of tea in each hand and placed them upon the railing of the porch just beside them. She hadn’t even asked for such a thing, much less imagined someone would bother! “Thank you- you didn’t have to do that,” Adagio breathed.

Sugar Belle smiled and gave a wink. “Dinner’s in about two hours,” she said. “Baked potatoes and chicken. You look right at home.”

“I feel right at home,” was her reply; emotions, softened by sleep and made vulnerable, were easily spoken aloud in places such as this. As with every one of its like that had come before, she hadn’t really meant to say it- but resisting felt so difficult. She couldn’t feel all that mortified that they’d slipped out.

Those sweet eyes crinkled even deeper into a smile, Sugar Belle reaching down to the give the gorgeous woman’s hand a small squeeze. “And don’t you forget it, too. No matter what else you try to tell yourself.”

She was the sweetest soul the young woman had ever known; Sugar Belle simply seemed utterly intent on being as kind and caring for everyone around her as she possibly could, no matter how unworthy or unwilling they were to receive it. She gave, and gave, and gave a little more even when she was nigh exhausted. Every action she performed seemed to be done with someone else in mind- and she seemed to revel in it. What sort of person could find so much happiness when they created happiness for others? It was little wonder why Big Mac had found her so irresistible. What I would’ve given to see them meet for the first time, Adagio mused. I bet she had him flustered good. The idea of the mighty man trying to woo her seemed humorous.

So deep in her thoughts was she that the sound of movement beside her did not immediately register. Applejack gave a groan and stretched out her arm, a tad slower to re-enter the waking world than her ginger beloved. “Oof, that felt good,” she muttered. “I hear you talking to someone?”

“Sugar Belle was out here a bit ago,” Adagio said, turning around and grabbing one of the icy glasses so as to place it in that freckled hand. “Here.”

The blonde chuckled. “Because of course she did,” she remarked, “just the perfect thing for a Saturday afternoon.”

“How’s your foot feeling right now?” A distant memory of words spoken came ringing back in her ear; hadn’t Applejack needed medication for a short while? She would have sworn it was something of the like “Weren’t you supposed to be taking something, or..?”

The freckled beauty shrugged the question aside and gave it little heed. “I’m alright. It only hurts when I’m walking around a lot.”

And of course that was the sort of response she gave. “Applejack…” Adagio felt a flicker of impatience; her perfect beau was as strong as an ox, but to pretend she was invincible was foolish. “Come on, you need to get better so you can get working again. That means actually doing what the doctor told you to do.”

“But I’m fine! Come on, you don’t need to worry bout me like that-”

“Where are they? In the bathroom, or in your room?” Adagio said, already on her feet and speaking as though the matter were settled. “I’ll go get them for you, since apparently you’re hurting when you walk.”

“I didn’t say- Dagi, it’s not a big deal,” Applejack continued to protest.

“Quit being stubborn. I want my girl back on her feet- both of them, and both of them working.” Hands on her hips and determined to have her way, Adagio was not going to cede ground and allow her favorite person to continue on in suffering, not without her having something to say about it.

Pursed lips and a sigh escaped her, but Applejack decided to give way after all. “Sitting on my nightstand,” she admitted. “Thank you, but you don’t need to fret over me.”

“Looks like I have to do it for the both of us,” Adagio surmised, striding back into the house and off for her next-

Or perhaps not. Coming out from the dining room stood Apple Bloom, moving as though she’d been sitting –or standing- near the window that looked out onto the porch and now gazing at the family guest with an odd expression on her face. She seemed intent upon studying the woman before her, searching for an answer of sorts, the likes of which Adagio could hardly guess.

She tried to keep that gaze and hold it steady, but the awkwardness of it was too much to take for very long. “Umm… yes?”

Apple Bloom studied the Siren for a little while longer and then said, “You’re even starting to argue like you’re married.”

Adagio swiftly turned towards the stairs and raced up as fast as she could, hoping no one could see the flush of her face or the smile that had blossomed upon it.

How was one supposed to define themselves when their spirit was cut between two worlds? Were they more one, or the other? Would it even be possible to tell the difference between them? If a ball lay on the middle, which way would it lean- and why? Adagio found herself consumed by the thoughts of such things as the night carried on, though desperately did she try to continue with her contented mood all the same. Applejack was happy as could be, why should she go and ruin such a thing? This momentary happiness that was as close to spousal bliss did not need to be marred by any sense of melancholy. And, truth be told, Adagio couldn’t find it within herself to ignore that teasing joy anyway.

Dinner was a delight. Sugar Belle and Granny had taken a meal so simple as grilled chicken and baked potatoes, transforming them into one of the finest meals that any person could ever receive. Adagio had known finery in her life, spending more than one meal in the service of high society. But to say that any of their highest fare could contend with this pleasantry would be laughable, if not outright folly. The Apples were her safe haven that she would have to leave, though all of her heart wished she wouldn’t.

Each moment retaliated against the other. Each sorrow was meant to be borne with the help of another, and meant to be borne alone; there was no way to make a decision when so much of herself could not decide upon anything at all. The whim and will of others was all she knew to be.

“So I’m thinking,” Apple Bloom began, “I might take Miss Elvira in for the fair this year. She’s been so good lately and producing such good milk- it could be a long shot since she’s older, but I think I could come back with a ribbon on her neck. What do you think, Applejack?”

“I like the idea,” Applejack assured her younger sibling, earning a beaming glow from the crimson-haired girl. “She’s calm and quiet, and’s never minded taking orders from someone. I bet you’d do well, since you’ve gotten so good with animals lately.”

Apple Bloom’s face was as bright as the sun. “If I get a ribbon –any of them, really- I think I might reckon that as a sign. You know, that I keep this up. Start making all of the animals my own care, and see what comes of it.”

“You mean that you’d try ranching?” Adagio asked. “Just raising animals, not focusing on crops at all?”

The young girls appeared surprised by the knowledge of the onetime outcast, but nodded all the same. “Yeah… I’d- I like them. More than I do just being around trees all day,” she admitted quietly. “And since I can keep them here, I can just keep it up. And make the farm proud- my own way, I guess.”

“And we’d be mighty proud of ya,” Granny said, pausing from her meal so as to ensure her granddaughter received adequate praise. The aged matriarch had allowed little to escape past her lips throughout the day, no more than quiet murmurs and softened speech echoing across the empty space towards those she loved. But these simple words were enough to make Apple Bloom melt, her eyes turning soft and becoming liquid. “Ain’t never been a generation of Apples that wasn’t good with livestock. Bet you’d make us all proud, no matter what you do.”

“You’d make a lot of money with animal husbandry, too,” Applejack added, keen to pour out further praise for her young sibling. “Keep it up and you’d get good breeding stock.”

“And plenty of fresh milk for the farm,” Sugar Belle added. “So we can make fresh cream, and cheese, and- goodness, who knows what else?”

“And we know you’d do it well,” Big Mac finished. “You always do.”

Apple Bloom had spoken hesitantly at first, her words coming forth in an unsteady tremor that had been afraid to make aware her desires. The family was a traditional one, past history unwilling to budge in the face of the new- but how good it was to find herself a novelty not at all! Her trade and skills were as meant for the orchards as they were for the farmyard, and could bring honor the family name without a departure from it. She would be able to bring pride, glory, and –yes, money- to the home that she loved, all while making them proud. It had been such a tenacious fear for her, yet now rendered so simple. “Th- thanks, guys,” Apple Bloom mumbled, doing her best to busy herself with the contents of her baked potato rather than face any eye that had settled upon her sleek frame “I’m glad you’re my family.”

Family she was not, but Adagio felt the goodwill of those about her infectious, and loathe was she to not join in the fun. everyone else had enjoyed their share of praise, why not she add her words to the mix? “I loved spending time with your chickens and cows,” she said blusteringly, “I bet anyone else would feel the same. They were all so sweet.”

The young girl who had been so effortlessly hostile was left wide-eyed by the remark; this ginger city-slicker, who had been the bane of existence for years gone by, had gone out of her way to provide her with a compliment? Why, it hardly seemed possible to even be true. But goodness, Adagio seemed to mean it and even seemed to be aware that she’d said it; why else would she look away with a blush and a shamed face?

“… Thanks,” Apple Bloom said. A quick twitch of fork in the midst of potato, but no grimace or sign of any hostility whatsoever. “I- thanks, Adagio. I’m glad you liked them.”

“I kind of wondered… the eggs your chickens give. Are they just naturally going to be better than anything you buy from a store?”

The groan that surrounded the table came in an instant, all parties save for one red head leaning back and letting their fatigue be known.

The Siren, unaware of her mistake, was left befuddled. “What? What did I do?” She asked.

“You got her started,” Big Mac groaned.

And indeed did Apple Bloom rise up and become strong, an encyclopedia of animal husbandry whirling about in her brain as she considered the myriad ways of answering such a question. “I’m glad you asked,” the youngest farmgirl began, and soon she began to expound upon the subject in great detail.

She didn’t mind hearing what came next; Adagio was so content to spend these last few hours amidst the Apple family that any time hearing their words was akin to the glorious sound of spring rain upon the deadened world. What hurt could from it? What wounds could be gained? There was only healing and rejuvenation to be found; a spirit that spoke happily for happiness’ sake could never go wrong. The dinner passed them all by so splendidly, and the melancholy Siren was eager for every ounce she could find.

“I didn’t think you’d do it,” Applejack remarked. Bedtime rituals were beginning amongst their number, the long yet empty day exacting its toll of their energy and seeing them all weary.

Adagio, more intent on putting on her pajamas, had to pause. “Do what?”

“Get my- hold on.” Applejack spat out the froth of toothpaste and began to wash away her mess. “Get my sister to smile at you. She’s been so intent at being mad at you, I just… you’ve really got a knack for it, now.”

Oh, brother! To treat anything she’d done as something remarkable was the height of foolishness. “I just did what I’m supposed to-”

“No, you didn’t,” Applejack replied, a quiver in her voice making the ginger beauty halt and regard her love more seriously. “You’ve- you’ve done good. You’ve changed, and for the better. You’re everything I love and more. I need you to know that.” A small pause as she put away her things and cleaned up what mess she’d made. “I… you- I’m so glad you agreed to come here.”

Adagio knew her next words would carry a vicious weight. What could she say that would not sway one way or the other? When so much of her heart couldn’t decide to hold steady or relent, any sort of final decision felt useless. How could she convince herself of anything, now? She could not wound Applejack, but she would wound her if she stayed- yet a wound would she deal if she left! Oh, how to make this sort of miserable decision!

“Thank you. For everything,” Adagio murmured softly. One hand caressed that freckled face while the other found the fingers that she cherished, glad to feel their weight intermingled with her own grasp. No matter what she decided come the morrow, this sensation she would never fear.

“I- I love you,” Applejack whispered. For a moment so impromptu and so inadequate, the bathroom had suddenly become their sanctuary, heads bowed together as they held one another. Eyes closed so as to better breathe in the heartbeat of the other, forced darkness allowing the sensation of human connection to fill in the gaps. This was the one she loved, was it not? To feel those locks of hair between their fingers was like pulling upon the threads of harmony. The smooth touch of freshly showered skin brought forth the memories of smooth glass that pulsated with the warmth of sunlight. The small, gentle puffs of breath that each gave was the living heartbeat of the wind itself, a life of its own that could not be forgotten or extinguished from the sensations of heart. Though each experienced their intimacy in their own way, both were entwined about the other and unable to sever the experience that they found together. This was their heartbeat, their sight, their feelings and touch and joys that existed so far beyond any sort of realm; love alone had made them, and love alone could ever see it be rent.

“Well, I’ll,- I’ll see you in the morning,” Applejack said, pausing only to give the hand of her beloved a kiss as they went to their separate bedrooms. One last sleep together was all that stood between their happiness and their doom, and not even she knew which would be decided.

But Adagio found herself fearing the empty space of her quarters. Her room had never really been hers, just a temporary space in which she had dwelt until comfort could be found. And oh, how she had found it- just in the arms of another! Not one more night in this place would she spend kept apart. “No. You won’t.”

The wound was ready to be dealt, and upon that face came the look of despair. “But it’s-”

“I’m sleeping with you tonight.” Adagio’s word was final, irrevocably resolute. There was no way she could even hope to find slumber lest she was cradled in those spectacular, comforting arms of her sweet apple farmer. Or else, she really might have to run away during the night.

But for Applejack, it seemed too good to be true. “And- and you’re sure-”

“Take me to bed, goodness!” Adagio breathed, practically leaping in her beloved’s arms and surrendering all will to that of the one she cherished. “I can’t spell it out any clearer. How else am I supposed to sleep without you next to me?”

Applejack looked as though she’d been slapped. Non-plussed, shocked, utterly left unsure as to what to do next- any sort of definition seemed inadequate in comparison to the expression upon her freckled face. But with this priceless treasure in her arms, she felt loathe to find responsibility elsewhere, and so she saw them both to the comfortable twin bed that had seen fit to hold them both twice before- and now, for one last time.

Adagio let her eyes close without hesitation the moment she felt body hit mattress. This was safety, especially as- oh, the feeling of Applejack’s arms about her body! The warmth of body heat, that gentle heartbeat that tended to her very spirit. This was unlike any place in the world, unmatched in serenity. She could fall asleep in the span of a heartbeat and not even take the slightest heed, If the light was switched off, she didn’t pay heed. Only the feel of Applejack gently spooning her was of any consequence.

“I love you,” Adagio breathed, and though the words slipped past her she did not regret it. For too long had they been kept buried, and glad was she to finally set them free.

“You mean it?” Applejack asked.

“Forever and always.”

“Well, then…. Love you, too.”

Though she had not expected it, summoned the will to find it, nor had she wanted to relive such horrid memories, the safety that was Applejack granted the Siren a strange sort of courage. There was grief in her bones, yes, but also a strength that was trying so valiantly to become her own. Perhaps if she spoke now and gave it life… she might be able to talk about it a little.

“Applejack, did I ever tell you what happened to me since I first saw you and your friends?”

“No. Do- do you want to talk about it?” The farmgirl inquired.

“If you’ll listen to me,” Adagio whispered tearfully.

“For as long as you want to speak.” And so for every new shudder, Applejack was there to set the pain and terror at bay, allowing the whole terrible story to escape into the darkness and be lost forever in the miasma that was the ever-endless symphony of night.

Author's Note

Just a little further now.

Keep reading, I guess.