As you sit at the bar, counting the bottles on the self behind the bartender, you take a sip of the soda you ordered. Things have not been going well for you this night, you wanted to go out and socialize more. Yet you’re here doing the same things you would have done at home, drink soda and sit alone. Only you don’t have the same comforts within reach. It’s been quite sometime since you stumbled into Ponyville, being the only human was tough for a bit, but you have gotten used to living here. The boredom and loneliness however, not so much. As you ponder fleeting thoughts here and there, you turn around and scan the area, looking at all the unfamiliar faces having a good time. Upon you’re scanning you meet eyes with someone; she is sitting at a table by herself and looking right at you. Her orange coat almost glows in the faint light and her blonde mane shines like a warm sunny day. You recognize her almost immediately, its Applejack, the element of honesty herself. She gets up from her seat and trots towards you, a nervous tension is coming over the closer she gets.
She has been particularly friendly to you for sometime, and has made more of an effort to talk to you than the others.
”Howdy Anon, is this seat takin?” she asks, you can’t help but think she knows full well the answer to that question.
”No.” You meekly reply, you could have said more but you didn’t.
She has a seat next to you and catches a glimpse of you’re face before she throws her hair back in a swishing motion.
”Nice lookin fella like you all by yer lonesome? I find dat hard ta believe.” She playfully says as she gives a friendly smile your way, its obvious that she is flirting.
”What’ll you two be having?” The bartender asks
”Hard apple cider fer me.” The bartender looks at you and waits for a response.
”Another soda would be fine.” The bartender almost has a look of disgust that you would ask for the same non-alcoholic drink. You could care less what that asshole thinks.
”So I take it yer not the talkative type?” Applejack asks flatly, as though she has been around non-talkers in the past and is trying to force a conversation.
”So what brings you here to a bar of all places?” Taking her obvious hint.
”I was going to spend some time with mah friends, but they are busy with their own business. So I came here for some drinks and to relax a bit.”
Applejack was a huge help in getting you settled in, started out normal enough, she would make small talk and bring over food, but after time she started getting playful and flirty. You brushed it off since you had no interest in ponies, but she was still very good company to have around. After some jokes, small talk, and back and forth, the bartender arrives with the drinks.
”Sweet doggy!” Applejack shouts, as she wastes no time downing the drink before her. Her loud sigh of relief after drinking what you could only assume was a very refreshing drink, kind of turned you on.
”Whoowee!” She exclaims. “Now that’s a good drink” She looks over at the bartender “Give me another!”
You had always pegged her as rather dull, and plain, but seeing her so lively and laidback, it was really charming. After a couple of hours and a few ciders, both you and Applejack have hit it off great and the bar is getting ready to call it a night.
”Ah really should not have stayed out late….Big Mac is gonna be…mighty furious…when I get home.” You can tell she is a little tipsy, but you are no different.
You both help keep balance as the two of you walk out and decide it best to walk her home.
The walk to Sweet Apple Acres is pretty uneventful; the two of you trot along with the occasional loss of balance, and after sometime you both are walking towards the barn.
”Thank ya kindly (yawn) for walking me home. I best be..” “AJ!” A voice interrupts
From the barn you just passed emerges a figure, his red coat and massive size catch your attention first. Its Big Mac, you were not really happy to be seeing him in this situation.
”Oh Big Macintosh! Ah didn’t know ya were awake.” Slurred Applejack with a little smile on her face, completely at ease in the situation or not fully realizing it.
Big Macintosh looked at her and smiled in relief, but his gaze quickly turned to you and his eyes were all but welcoming.
”You can go ahead now.” He said while swinging his head in the direction towards town.
”That’s fine, I’m just happy to make sure she got home safe. It was nice talking to you Applejack. Well good night.” Before you can make a move Applejack closes the distance between you and gives you a deep kiss.
”Was nice talking to you too, be sure to visit so we can do this again.” She softly whispers to you before she heads inside, a flabbergasted Big Macintosh following behind.
The long walk home is quite and spent deep in thought. Home at last and exhausted from the long night, you get the lights and curl in bed. The last thoughts to pop in your head are Applejacks words, and the kiss you both shared.
Though the drinks were in moderation, you still feel pretty lousy waking up. The bar, Sweet Apple Acres, and the kiss,
“All that happened didn’t it?” Rubbing your forehead, you think of what needs to be said, the next time you see Applejack. A nice relaxing hot shower takes your mind off of last night and refreshes you. Throwing on some cloths, you head out to get breakfast. The walk to Sugar Cube Corner is a little long but worth it, Pinkie Pie often gives you fresh bread if you stop by.
”Good Morning Anon!” Pinkie Pie shouts as you walk in,
“Morning, umm can I get a loaf of bread?”
“Sure, that’ll be 4 bits.” She smiles.
“I don’t really got any on me.” Recalling you spent most of it last night.
”Well guess you are going hungry….Just kidding.” She sticks her tongue out and gives you a smile, as she takes out a loaf of bread and hands it to you. You shoot her a mean glare, not being in the mood for any jokes, she picks up on it right away.
”What’s wrong Anon? Are you upset about something?” She gives a pout and seems to be honestly concerned.
“Nothing, I just didn’t get much sleep, so I’m pretty cranky.”
”No, I’m Cranky.” A voice interrupts from behind you, as two donkeys enter the shop and head on up to the counter.
”Howdy Doodle Cranky Doodle!” Pinkie squeals “I haven’t seen you two in so long!”
The two donkeys look at one another and back to Pinkie
“We just saw you last week.” Matilda commented.
”Exactly, a week is such a long time to be waiting to see somep0ny you care about I know we should have a party to celebrate since you two are here right now!”
Pinkie continues to go on, and her ability to speak nonstop always impressed you. Regardless you don’t have the energy to deal with any of this. You sneak out while Pinkie is bothering the Doodles and head back home, after finishing off breakfast and cleaning up, you sit on your bed in silence. This is the usual routine for you, staying at home alone, interacting with ponies on occasion and feeling empty.
You did odd jobs when you could to make some money, but mostly everything was given to you on account of being the only human in the world. Even this house was a gift. A knock at the door breaks you from your melancholy; staying hidden you sneak a peak at who it is. Your heart almost stopped, its Applejack, anxiety beings to fill you as sense of dread looms over.
”Hey Anon! You home?” Yells Applejack, she sounds normal enough, but fear paralyzes you in place.
(Why are you so afraid of talking to her?) You think, Applejack knocks and calls out to you once more, after no reply she turns away and leaves. She looks back once before she is out of sight, and you collapse onto the floor.
”Fuck!” You scream, at this point you’re shaking. After a while you pick yourself up and head outside, reading was not something you did often back in your old life, but you appreciated it more here. You enter the library and see Twilight and Rainbow Dash nearby.
”Has the new book come out yet?” Rainbow asks,
“Its out in Canterlot, but we normally get it a little later here.” Twilight notices you, “Oh hi Anon, what brings you here?”
“Just wanted to pick up a book or two.”
”Anything in particular, I can help you find it.” Twilight says as she trots over towards you, Rainbow walks past Twilight
“Hey Twi, I’m gonna head over to Canterlot and pick up a copy of that book, you want me to get you one?” Rainbow asks as she is heading towards the door.
”Oh yes, that would be great if you could.”
“Cool, see you later.” Rainbow says as she dashes off into the air, leaving only a faint rainbow that disappears in seconds.
”I need a book.” Your tone is matter of fact, and showing no concern for small talk.
”Well we got plenty here, but I’m going to need you to be more specific.” She replies
“Pick out some for me, I don’t really have anything in mind right now.” You begin to browse while Twilight gives thought and collects a few books.
”Here, these are some of the more popular books that get checked out here.” With a smile she floats you 3 books.
“Thanks Twilight.” You begin to head towards the door
“Oh Anon, Applejack was here earlier and she was looking for you, give her a visit before you head back.” With that she goes about her own business and you leave not saying a word.
The walk to Sweet Apple Acres is uncomfortable, but you don’t want to delay it anymore. It’s the least you should do, as you approach you see Big Macintosh under a tree.
”Hey Big Mac, you seen Applejack?” You try to sound as nonchalant as possible, like everything was fine. He looks up at you “Eeyup.” An awkward silence “You gonna tell me where she is?” You ask
”Nope.” With that he goes back to resting, well its clear that he is pissed and not going to be of any help. You want to kick him, but you know he can break you if he wanted.
You head over to the house and knock at the door, Applebloom answers.
”Oh howdy, what brings you here?”
“I’m looking for Applejack, have you seen her?”
“Well she’s in the shower right now, come in she won’t be long.” Said Applebloom as she motions you into the living room, you seat yourself on the couch with Granny Smith a few feet away deep in sleep.
There is nothing but silence except for Granny Smith’s snoring as Applebloom’s eyes are locked on you; this is a level of hell in its own right.
”So I heard you an Applejack were out late last night, what did y’all do?” And you’re only going deeper
“Well not much really, we just talked and had a few drinks.”
“That’s not what mah brother was yellin about.” (That explains some things), but you very well can’t confirm anything.
(snort) “Uwa soups on!” Granny Smith yelps as she wakes up. The distraction is a god send to you,
“Hello Granny Smith, did you sleep well?”
“Eyah what was that sonny?”
“I asked if you slept well.” You repeat again as understandingly as possible.
“Why yes I did sonny……..ugh why are you here again?” it hits her late that you have no business in her home.
“He came to talk to me.” Applejacks voice says from behind you, turning you see Applejack standing a few feet away with a towel draped over her shoulders.
”C’mon Anon, lets go to mah room.” She says turning toward upstairs, as you follow behind her, you can’t help but stare at her butt for a moment before fixings your gaze at the floor.
In her room you take a seat on a chair while she towels herself off a little, her damp loose mane is a pretty sexy look you have to admit.
“I’m glad ya came, I was looking fer ya earlier.”
“Yeah about that, what did you want to talk to me about?” You ask
“Well we are getting ready to start harvesting and making Apple cider and I could use an extra hoof around here.”
You breathe a sigh of relief; all she wanted was to offer you a job. “Sure I could use the extra money, when did you want me to start?”
“How about tomorrow, be sure to come bright and early.” With a nod you get up and make for the door until Applejack calls you.
“Also Anon, when it’s all said and done, I will treat ya to some real apple cider.” She winks at you and with a smile you head out.
The next day you get up before the sun and make for Sweet Apple Acres. When you arrive, Applejack is already outside and bucking apples.
“Morning Anon, can ya fetch me some more buckets from the barn.” Wasting no time, she puts you to work.
The whole day from sunrise to sunset, is spent on the orchards and doing other errands as needed. The whole time Applejack maintains a professional and straightforward attitude, like nothing ever happened. You think that maybe she just doesn’t remember any of it; in any case, you won’t bring it up if you don’t need to.
At the end of the day they make dinner and ask you to join them, but you decline and head back home. Big Mac was not exactly being friendly to you today, so you would rather not overstay the welcome. The next day follows a formula similar to the last, you work and do what’s needed and you try to avoid Big Mac, who has been getting more and more impatient with you. As long as you keep clear of him things should be all right though, that all changes about 3 days in. You and Big Mac are working the trees today, 6 hours in and he seldom says a word beyond the mandatory order or two. The tension is thick and you can tell he doesn’t like working with you. He bucks the tree while you are still trying to change out the basket. He almost clocked you in the head and you fire back instantly.
”What the hell is your problem?!” You scream, “You almost took my head off!”
“Well, maybe if you had worked faster, it never would ave happened. Ah can’t slow down just because you can’t keep up.” His snide remark makes you even more pissed at him.
”Nah man you have been acting like a dick to me all week, what are you so pissed off about?” Big Mac gives you a look of total annoyance, “Do ya even need to ask that?” He angrily walks off and leaves you to bring back everything alone. After several trips back and forth, you finish up and angrily close the barn door.
”Anon.” You turn and are eye to eye with Applejack,
“Hey Applejack.” You angrily reply, you know it’s not her fault but you’re in a bad mood.
“Listen ah know you just finished up and are tired, but I want you to clean up and come out with me tonight.” Her tone is cheerful enough and it melts away a good portion of your anger, even though you wanted to sulk in it.
You let out a deep sigh “Fine but I need to go back to my place for new cloths.” You say, “Great I will meet ya at yer place then.”
Applejack smiles as you walk passed her; you turn around before you head out “The door will be open.” With that you head back home to shower.
A nice hot shower is just what you needed to forget about how shitty the day was. You dry up and head into your room to change; before you enter, you spot Applejack waiting in the living room.
”I’ll only be a minute, make yourself at home.” As you pick out some of the better clothing, you get dressed and head out to see what Applejack is up to.
”My my, aint you a handsome fella.” She smiles, you chuckle nervously, appreciating the flattery but not saying much else. “Nice place ya got, it’s been awhile since I been here.” She says while scanning the place
“Where did you want to go?” You ask wanting to know what this was all about, Applejack stares back at you with a small grin,
“The bar from last time.”
The walk over is quite enough, the two of you walk side by side never really looking at each other. The day was long and hard so its no surprise fatigue keeps things quite.
Once inside the bar, the two of you get a little table away from everyone, it’s located in a dim corner pretty well out of sight. Applejack picked it out, you wanted to sit at the front table and pester that same bartender for another soda. You sit with your back against the wall and she sits across from you with her back to the crowd. A mare comes up and asks if you either of you wanted anything to drink, Applejack asks for an Appletini and you could not help but snicker, and you ask for a 4 Horses.
”What is that?” Applejack asks,
“It’s a drink that combines 4 hard liquors, it burns like fuck, but its strong.” You reply as Applejack looks interested in it but doesn’t go through with ordering one.
”Well maybe next time.” She concludes to herself, as the mare heads off to bring the drinks you ordered, Applejack sighs as though the tired just caught up to her.
”Ya know what would be fun?” She asks you, “Next time we go out, we should go dancing.”
”I think your brother is pissed off at me.” You mention out of nowhere.
“Ah shoot sugar cube don’t you mind him none, he has just been in a bad mood.”
Applejack says as the mare brings you the drinks, both of you take them up and begin to drink. Applejack sips hers and lets out a little sigh; she looks up at you with a smile
“He just did not really approve of that kiss.” She smirks
You hate clichés, but your drink sprayed like a fountain after hearing that. (Oh crap! She remembers it!) You think as you look up at her.
Applejack laughs “Look at you, going and wasting a perfectly good drink like that.” She takes another sip and slowly trots over to you, pushing you against the wall before she kisses you. Drink and saliva flow into you and a strange blend between gagging and swallowing occur, after its all gone, she keeps it up for a few seconds more before pulling away.
”We can share mine if you want, all ya gotta do is ask.” She grins before returning to her seat.
”Applejack…..I.., the last time, we had a few to many drinks and…I was…we were not thinking clearly.” Your heart is pounding and you’re a nervous wreck. Yeah you thought she was attractive as far as ponies go, but you would never act on that…right?
”I don’t lie Anon, not to anyp0ny and not to myself, now I don’t know about you, but I was thinking clearly and I meant every word I said.” She stops as if waiting for you to reply. “I work hard everyday, between the farm, Applebloom, Granny Smith, and my friends, that leaves little time fer romance.” She is being brutally honest with you about this, as she continues
”I have needs and wants, but I don’t get much options, on account of being a mare and all. If I fool around…ya know with another colt, the Apples may get another member to the family. I can’t risk getting behind on all my responsibilities at the farm to take care of a foal, I just can’t.” She sinks her head down and fiddles with her drink.
“I just figured..maybe…we could help each other out….we both don’t got much options, and since we get along so well….” She looks up at you
You sigh and rub your forehead taking it all in; it must get lonely having to do all that on her own. Big Mac has also been going steady with Cherilee for a while now, I’m sure that must bother her as well.
”Applejack, this doesn’t feel right. I can’t go along with what you’re proposing.” You say flatly, she lowers her head after hearing this.
“I understand.” She whispers.
”Don’t get the wrong idea Applejack; I do have feelings for you though.” She looks up suddenly wide eyed.
“After all this time and all the things you have done for me, its no surprise I found myself attracted to you. I’m just not comfortable about us not being the same species, I need some time to get used to the idea ya know. Until then though I don’t see why we can’t still do other things, like go out, eat, and watch plays and stuff.” You give a sheepish smile her way, clearly not used to these sorts of things.
”So ya want to…date? Is that right?” Her face turns a little red
“I know you said you don’t have time for romance, but I figured since I help out at the farm and see you often we can sort of…” She picks up her hoof to cut you off and smiles.
“I think I can make time in your case sugar cube.”
With that the two of you pack up and leave together, though its late you don’t want to call it a night just yet. The two of you head back to your place with some snacks and spend the whole night talking it away. Though things were awkward at the bar, it’s a different story now that you both have nothing to hide. It feels natural and normal now, talking to one another. In the morning Applejack wakes up from the couch you both crashed at, she looks down and sees you sprawled out on the floor. She gives a little smile as she trots over to you.
”I best let him sleep.” She thinks as she grabs her hat and heads outside but not before giving you a little peck on the cheek. The walk to Sweet Apple Acres is quite enough; as Applejack approaches the gate she spots Big Macintosh.
”Morning big brother, is there any breakfast left over, I’m starving.” She yawns,
“AJ, its already noon.”
“Lunch would be fine then.” She tries to go past him but he cuts her off
“You didn’t come home last night, where did you go?” He looks angry as Applejack yawns again.
”Ah stayed with Anon, listen Big Mac, I’m plum tuckered on account of me not getting much sleep last night.”
“Doing what exactly?!” Big Mac says raising his voice.
Applejack is taken aback, “If you really want to know, we did nothing sept talk about ourselves, nothing else!”
”Ya know he also told me about how ya been treatin him, I can’t believe you would act so immature you of all people, and that’s not even mentioning you almost bucking him in the head.” Big Mac frowns and looks down upon hearing this
“It was an accident, I wanted to apologize but I just don’t like him much, I don’t think he is right for ya.”
Applejack walks over and looks him right in the eyes. “I don’t recall asking fer yer approval. You may be mah big brother, but I’m a big girl now, I can make my own choices. Anon is a nice man, and you owe him an apology at the least. Now I’m tired and going to bed.” She says as she storms off into the house and slams the door behind her.
Big Macintosh looks deep in thought for a moment before walking off. You wake up on the floor and take in your surroundings, you remember last night and how Applejack kept bucking in her sleep. You knew she bucked apples on the farm, but you never imagined she would buck them in her sleep too. Looking at where she hit you, it’s bruised and sensitive to the touch. “Damn that girl can kick.” You mutter out. Making your way to the shower, you think spooning was not the best idea after all.
Hot water surrounds you in the bath; it does wonders for the bruise after the pain subsided. Just then a knock at the door, déjà vu you think as you get out of the tub. Looking around you grab a bath robe Rarity gave you as a house warming present, it was a little too frilly when she gave it, but constant use made it more rugged looking.
You open the door expecting Applejack but to your surprise it’s Big Mac, and he appears to be holding a package in his mouth.
”Can I come in?” He asks through the package,
“Sure.” You let him in and watch him take a seat by the couch, as he scans the aftermath of where you and Applejack were.
”Let me get dressed real quick.” You say as you head into the room to change, after you are dressed you make for the living room and lock eyes with Big Mac. He opens his mouth to speak and you pray he does not comment on how handsome you are like Applejack did.
“I wanted to say….I’m sorry.” He opens the package and you look inside. It’s an assortment of treats from Sugar Cube Corner, he grabs a doughnut and begins to eat. You sit next to him and grab a strawberry filled pastry, it was an odd gesture of apology but he seemed sincere.
”It’s ok.” You say as he is chewing. “So what have you been up to lately?” Big Mac clears his throat,
“Working, resting, and seeing Cheerilee.” It amazes you how he answered the question using less than a sentence and it made sense.
(What would they even talk about; the guy says nothing but a few words every time you saw him.) The thought is interrupted as Big Mac breaks the silence.
“And you?”
”Nothing much, might go do stuff around town today.” Big Mac nods and finishes off another doughnut before getting up.
“Taking off?”
“Eeyup.”
“Don’t want another doughnut?”
“Nope.” With that he gets up and leaves.
“Strange guy.” You think before finishing off the pastry.
Visiting Applejack would be nice, but you think it best not to bother her and give her some space. Might as well do something today, question is what?
You notice the books you had borrowed from Twilight resting on the table; you had already finished reading them, but never bothered taking them back. Giving a sigh you take them up, and head outside.
“Guess now is as good a time as any.”
The walk over is plain and boring, some of the friendlier ponies wave and smile and you return the same lazily. Passing by a café, Big Mac is at a table with Cheerilee. The two seem to be sharing a big milkshake, laughing, talking, and totally oblivious to their surroundings. You give a chuckle “Guess apologizing to me was a side thing.” Not wanting to interrupt, you continue onward towards the library.
After entering the library and looking around, you spot Twilight sitting in a corner reading a book. She’s as usual, so immersed she does not even notice that a person entered. You quietly make you’re way over to her and sneak a peak at what she is reading. Skimming over the lines, you begin to read aloud a random sentence.
”All mares go through heat, its perfectly na..”
She squeals and slams the book
“Damn Anon! Why don’t you knock or something!?” Yells Twilight as she gets up and looks almost ready to attack. You notice she is about to cry, she must be embarrassed that you caught her reading that book.
“I’m sorry; you normally don’t mind me coming in.” She gives a grunt and looks away from you,
“Well what do you want?” Her face is stuck in a snarl and her tone is deep.
Who would have guessed a little tease would turn out so awful, guilt and concern begin to fester inside you. ”Twilight, I’m sorry about snooping at what you were reading. I wanted to just mess with you a little, but it was none of my business and I’m sorry.”
You place the books on a nearby counter.
”I came to bring the books back, here they are.” Twilight does not budge as you close the door. Before you can take a step, Rainbow Dash lands nearby, she has a brown book bag strapped to her side. It’s a nice look, but she reminds you a mail carrier.
”Uh Rainbow I wouldn’t go in there.”
“Why not?”
“Well I kind of pissed off Twilight.”
She trots a little closer snickering “What did you do?”
You explain everything that happened and Rainbow loses it when you tell her what she was reading. Falling onto her back she begins to let out a loud continuous laugh
“Oh man, that’s rich. Haha” She laughs for a few seconds more before wiping a tear away from her eye. ”I wouldn’t worry so much about it Anon; she will get over it in a few. Believe me; I have caught her reading way more embarrassing books.” She laughs. “C’mon lets get something to eat while she cools off.”
The two of you head out to the café you had seen Big Mac at, by the time you arrive however, he is nowhere to be seen. ”Give me a salad and don’t hold back on the tomatoes.” Rainbow says nonchalantly, the waiter looks at you
“The same.” The waiter takes note and is off to bring the drinks.
“So what have you been up to Anon?”
“Nothing much, I do odd jobs to get extra cash and look for ways to kill the time. I don’t live an exciting life like you do.” Rainbow freaks
“Oh my gosh! Speaking of exciting, have I got a story for you!” She makes no effort in hiding her excitement, as the waiter returns with both food and drink floating around him as he sets them on the table. Rainbow immediately digs in and without waiting to swallow she begins to speak again
“Sho I was (munch) tryn to pull dis sic (munch)” Greens are falling out on occasion as you shake your head.
“Rainbow, at least swallow before you start talking.” She gulps
“Ok so I was trying to pull this sick aerial flip and about half way I get a wing cramp.” She begins to flap and retract her wing in an animated way to reenact the event. ”I loose control and start nose-diving, I try to spread my wing out and at least aim for a cloud, but the pain was too great.”
”I tried to use my good wing and lean into anything that would stop my freefall, but that didn’t work either. Finally when all hope seemed lost and even I didn’t think I was going to make it, I get rescued by none other than…” She stops for a moment ”Pauses for dramatic effect” She whispers to herself ”The Wonder Bolts!” She squeals “Can you believe it?” By this point she has both hooves on the table and is leaning towards you.
Finishing off the salad and thinking about her story, you recline back into the seat and exhale.
“I have to admit that’s a pretty impressive story, but you’re damn lucky you didn’t die.” Rainbow blows a raspberry
“You always have to rain on my parade with silly concerns about dying. I got rescued by the Wonder Bolts; as far as I’m concerned I could die already.” Her dreamy gaze and crossed legs, reminds you of a love struck teen.
“What about joining The Wonder Bolts? Can you really die without joining them?” She stops her daydreaming and has a sudden realization.
”You’re right, I’ve been taking my training to lightly, I need to step up my game and join them.” She stands up with a determined look on her face and without waiting; she dashes off into the sky.
Dust covers the area and some of the other patrons begin to cough, when it settles the waiter from before is next to you.
”So it shall be on one ticket then?” You bury your face into your hand
“Sure, why not.” You groan.
The meal was enjoyable, and talking to Rainbow Dash was a nice distraction from thinking about how pissed Twilight is at you.
Walking around town, you consider visiting Pinkie Pie, but you see Rarity and Sweetie Bell not far off buying food. Though there is nothing wrong with the cloths you have, new duds would not be a bad thing. Also you remember Applejack wanted to go dancing, so why not splurge on some nice clothing?
Before you can approach them, Sweetie Bell spots you and tells Rarity. “Anon darrrling, it’s been sooo long.” Rarity enunciates in only the way Rarity can,
“Hey guys, what’re you up to?”
“Rarity and I are getting some ingredients for a big dinner we plan on having tonight.” Sweetie Bell excitedly jumps around
“What’s the occasion?”
“Nothing really, we just wanted to “pig out” as Sweetie would say.” Rarity and Sweetie Bell both start playfully picking on one another and you clear your throat to get their attention.
”I know you two have plans tonight, but do you think you could make me some cloths when you get a chance Rarity?” Rarity looks at the clothing you are wearing.
“Well I can see my cloths are still fabulous, but I understand the need for wanting more.” She smiles, “You don’t have to wait long though, I can make you some today if you want and you can join us for dinner if you like.”
”Oh that would be great, but wont I be interrupting you two?” Sweetie Bell answers for Rarity
“Not at all, it’s a BIG dinner, the more the merrier.” Both she and Rarity snicker.
Once at Rarity’s home, you help Sweetie Bell put away the food and get the kitchen ready for tonight. Assorted knives, bowls, and utensils are scattered about, ready to be used. Rarity however, is up in her room preparing to make cloths. It’s nice that she trusts you enough to leave you alone with Sweetie Bell. She calls you up and Sweetie follows, not wanting to miss a moment off her sister at work.
”Ok I have the fabric and tools ready, what kind of clothing did you have in mind dear?”
She says as she smiles warmly at you with those big granny-like glasses on her face.
”I don’t really got much bits on me, but I just need some regular everyday cloths and boxers, as well as some nice cloths, you know to look presentable.” Rarity and Sweetie both get the same grin “I can pay you the difference later when I get paid.” You say nervously,
“Presentable you say, like something nice to impress Applejack?” She teases as you feel a heavy weight in the stomach.
“How did you guys find that out?”
“Apple Bloom told me and Scootaloo all about it, she’s never seen her sister so giddy before. Who knew that you’re such a dreamboat, I bet you romanced her before asking her out” She nudges you while giving a smile;
“I think it’s absolutely wonderful that mare finally went and did something ladylike for a change.” Thinking back to the bar however, it was Applejack who made the first move, and it was anything but ladylike, not that you minded though.
“Look don’t tell anyone else please.”
”Why not?” Sweetie Bell whines.
”The last thing I want is for everyone to know about it and it not work out. We both just want to test the waters, and see if it’s something we can both get behind.” You give the best reassuring smile you can. Rarity is not amused by the scene,
“That’s no fun Anon.” Sweetie pouts.
”Ruffian or not, Applejack is a lady, and all ladies enjoy a good romance. Sweep her off her hooves, take her out to ear, and don’t be so afraid to show her affection.”
“Yeah, all relationships can fail, so there’s no need to hide it from everyp0ny.”
They bring up a good point,
“Yeah.” It’s all you can think of saying.
“Anon, since you will be joining us for dinner. I feel it right that you pull the weight and begin preparing the food, as well as clean the dishes when we are done.”
You can’t argue with her since she will be making you clothing. After taking some measurements and notes, she sets to work on the clothing. While she is doing that, you and Sweetie Bell start work on dinner.
After a time, Rarity has finished and begins cooking the food. She insisted that you take no part in cooking, because she is very particular on what is to be done. You pass the time resting and thinking about what they said.
The biggest complaint you had with dating Applejack is that she’s a pony, aside from that; she is hardworking, honest, and very down to earth, with a charming and caring nature. Plus she had the sexiest accent you ever heard, she would be the perfect woman if you met her back home.
“Anon dinner is readyyy!” Rarity sings, after taking a seat you gaze at the food on the table. Most of it is fancy stuff you could not pronounce if your life depended on it. But it all looks great, you start serving yourself before anyone else and they take your lead. The dinner passes by with mostly talk of what they have been doing. Rarity is an up and coming star in Canterlot, her fashion line is mostly underground and only the “cool” ponies know about it. Sweetie Bell is no closer to finding her cutie mark, but she may be catching on to her singing talent. If she can ever get over her stage fright that is, they both try to pry into what you and Applejack do but to no avail.
With dinner done Rarity takes Sweetie Bell upstairs to get ready for bed, you start on cleaning the table and dishes. Rarity used up quite a few, so the work is taking longer than you had expected. The work is bothersome but you have finished a good chunk of it. “Ahem.” Rarity clears her throat from behind you, “Do you mind if I give you a hoof?”
You give a nod as she trots next to you and beings using her magic, she remains quite for a few minutes. “So Apple Bloom mentioned that you two had a little “sleep over”
“Nothing happened.” She stops what she is doing and looks up at you in disbelief “Really!? Nothing!?”
“Yup.” Rarity gives a smile
“I can take care of the dishes myself Anon, you can go home now you did enough.” She laughs.
“You sure?”
“Very, also there is this.” Her horn glows as a suitcase floats over from the other room and lands next to you. “It’s all the clothing you asked for, you may as well take it home and try it on. If you have any issues bring them to me tomorrow.” Reaching into your pockets for the bits you do have, Rarity shakes her head. “Oh no no no, that wont be necessary. Applejack is a dear friend and I wish you the best of luck in courting her. Incidentally, think of this as an early wedding gift if it does work out though.” She winks. Walking back home, you clutch the suitcase to your chest. The night air is cool and windy; it’s the perfect night to be out. With any luck, it will be the same when you and Applejack go out.
The past 6 months have been a blur, waking up before dawn and going to bed way past sunset. From what Apple Bloom has told you, harvesting the apples has been getting more and more difficult each year. Applejack keeps expanding the land and refuses to hire or accept help. Today, the both of you are sharing a lunch you had prepared after working a long shift.
“No way no how!” She stomps, “Ah refuse to hire help! When are you going to drop it!?”
“When you actually start listing to reason, there is no way the three of us can keep up with this workload.” You try not to yell, but you still raise your voice.
“The Apples have always kept up on the farm without help, and that’s not going to change on my watch!” She angrily shoves food into her mouth and washes it down with some cider. “Now if you’ll excuse me, while you’re taking your break, I gotta get back to work.” She heads back out to the orchards. Not wanting to be outdone, you shove the remainder of food you have down as well and follow after her.
Applejack is bucking some apples nearby as you show up to start collecting what she has taken down. She never once looks or talks to you, this whole week in particular the two of you have been snapping at each other. With the ridiculously long hours, fatigue, stress, and difference in work ethic, you both have been getting on each other’s nerves. The angry silence the two of you are sharing is bothersome, but all this time has shown you the best and worst of Applejack and she has seen the same of you. Through it all, neither of you has called it quits. At the end of the day, you both kiss and makeup, so even though she is mad now, it will get better. You smile looking at her and thinking about all of this and she catches you. “Now what in the hay are ya smiling like that for?”
“Nothing.” She frowns and continues working.
Applejack made a deal with some of the nearby towns and now Sweet Apple Acres is the main supplier of apples to a number of local vendors. Today was spent collecting apples for the different towns and business that need them. After 3 more hours of painstaking loading and unloading different carts and bags, the work is finally done. While you sit under a tree catching your breath, Applejack walks over to you pushing a cart behind her full of bits. “Ye-haw!” She shouts “Look at the killing we’re making on these lil ol business deals of mine. C’mon Anon we got to get this back home.” You groan getting up and dread the walk back to the farm, its not far, but after working so long it may as well be miles away. Finally reaching the farm, Applejack stashes the money in a secure back room connected to the house. With 100% of the money staying with her, she could afford all kinds of renovations to the house and farm. Heading down into the basement, to the room that Applejack had built specifically for you, you feel a tug on your shirt. “I wanted to thank ya Anon, for everything you have done to help us. I may not say it, but you’re like a member of the family.” You put your arms around her neck and nuzzle her,
“I know and its ok, I owe you for helping me out.” This is more or less how the kissing part goes, as for the making up part,
“You go ahead and get the bath ready, I will be joining ya soon.” Applejack smirks as she gives you a seductive look, before tending to some other business.
Though you have a shower, for the days when you are out on the fields, you got a nice giant tub that you love to soak in. It takes a few minutes to set the bath, but it’s worth it to relax in hot water and feel the stress melt away. As you bask in the steam and heat, the door slides open as Applejack enters. She gives that same sexy look from before and trots slowly over to you, “Is this seat takin?” She asks, you shake your head “Well then, don’t mind if I do.” She makes her way into the tub and has a seat right in front of you, shaking her butt a little before resting it dangerously close to your member. “I..” Before she can get another word out, you grab her and place her onto you. She rubs herself on you while you do the same to her; you start running a hand down to her breasts. Touching her at an awkward angle isn’t doing it; you face her away to have direct access to her more sensitive areas. She gasps as you fondle her for a bit, and begins moaning when you penetrate her with your free hand. She tightens as you try to push deeper, it takes a little coaxing to get deeper inside her. She begins to clamp down inside, trying to squeeze your hand clean of cum that isn’t there.
The first time the two of you had sex, it was difficult trying to figure out what was enjoyable, by now though, its second nature. It takes a few more minutes of pumping her before she is reaching her limit, as she relaxes her grip; you pull out and stick your dick in instead. You thrust as hard and deep as you can, her moaning is getting more sporadic and after she tightens her grip again, you can’t hold back anymore. You thrust forward, releasing a weeks worth of pent up cum, she moans at the sudden release inside her. Waiting as long as you did, the texture is thick and oozes slowly out of her, just how she likes it. She pants and grinds a little before dismounting and sitting down. The bath water has traces of fluid from the both of you floating around, not the best water to be in. You stumble out of the tub, and help her to her feet as well, before the both of you head to the shower to finish off.
Applejack lets out a sigh as you grab some shampoo and start lathering her coat.
“I’m sorry I snapped at ya sugar cube.”
“…..”
“I just get really upset having to be behind schedule.”
“We can’t run the farm forever you know. One day, we are going to get old and won’t be able to work anymore. We need to hire extra help soon, not just for today, but for the future as well.”
“I know, I just don’t like the idea of having to split all that money with other ponies.” You rinse her off with a bucket you had nearby
“We already have just about everything we could need; there’s no point in working ourselves to death just to save money we don’t really have to save.” Applejack does not reply instead she makes for the door, “No round 2?” You ask,
“I would love to sweetheart, but we got a long day ahead of us, we should save energy for that.” She closes the door behind her
(No point in staying here.) You think as you towel off and head back to the bed. As you curl up behind Applejack, you think about the day ahead and what she has in stored for you now.
“Good night darlin.” Applejack whispers, you give her a quick kiss
“Good night.” Whatever it is though, you can handle it.
The familiar smell of breakfast permeates the air; it stirs you from the relaxing sleep you were in. After shaking off the grogginess however, you notice Applejack is gone. After freshening up and heading upstairs, you see everyone gathered around the kitchen table. “Oh morning Anon, pull up a seat, granny Smith made her special waffles with zap apple jam and a whole mess of other things.” Apple Bloom cheers as you notice it’s quite the colossal spread on the table. A sudden grumble compels you to take a seat and begin to stack a plate with whatever catches your eye.
“Thanks for the breakfast granny Smith.”
“Don’t mention it sonny, today is a special day after all.” With a nod you start to dig in, after you finish a plate, Applejack sits herself next to you.
“Sleep well?”
“Yeah but why didn’t you wake me up? I thought we had lots of work to do?” She takes a drink of some apple juice
“We do, but it’s not for a little while longer.” While the rest of them finish up, you start washing the dishes.
“So what are we doing today?” You ask,
“Ish da Apple family weunion!” Apple Bloom smacks though a mouth full of food,
“Eeyup.” Applejack looks away with a small smile
“You’re more than welcome to join us tonight if ya want.” Not really feeling the need to use words, a smile and nod are all it takes for everyone to know you’re on board.
“Well all right then, let’s get started!” Apple Bloom is the first to lead the charge.
You were thinking that the party needed to be ready before the guests showed up, but the Apples do things differently. Most of the family had already shown up by noon, together they all got the party setup. Applejack was sending you out to collect items she had forgotten, the biggest of which was several cakes from Sugar Cube Corner. Pinkie was nice enough to help you bring them back.
“I never see you around anymore Anon, where have you been?” She squeaks
“Well I pretty much live at the farm now, Applejack works us to the bone, so I don’t have much time to go out.” Pinkie pushes ahead to catch-up with you,
“Sweet Apple Acres has been getting really, really big! It’s no surprise you don’t see us much, still we can all catch up at the party today!” You stop
“I didn’t know you guys were invited.”
“Oh yeah, we go every year, hey look I can see the farm!” She shouts and picks up the pace, once at the farm; you see that Twilight and her friends are talking with Applejack.
Making your way past them, you and Pinkie head into the kitchen to set the cakes, Pinkie makes several attempts to pick at them, but you keep her in check. Applejack walks in and makes her way to you, without saying a word she gets up on her hind legs and rests her front legs on your chest before kissing you. Pinkie giggles
“The party is gonna be starting soon hun, you go shower and get dressed. We can take care of the rest.”
“I do smell pretty bad.” You joke, the shower was refreshing, despite Applejack not joining you. Looking through the closet, you pick out some of the better casual wear. You had family get-togethers back home, but this was the first one you attended here in Ponyville. By the time you make your way up, the party is in full swing. There seems to be hundreds of guests, they can’t all possibly be related to Applejack can they?
“Well I’ll be, you must be Anon right? Applejack has told me quite a few things about ya.” A light yellow stallion calls out to you, his voice is soft but he has an intimidating but yet welcoming air of him. His hat though similar to Applejack’s is more rugged and his vest reminds you of one of those old cowboys you see in the movies. “The names Braeburn, I’m cousin Applejack’s cousin….though that’s kind of self explanatory.” He laughs, you extend your arm out but he pulls you into a hug. “Ahh we’s kin now! Aint no need for formal gestures like that.” He definitely is a friendly guy, but
“Kin?” You ask, at that moment Applejack stomps up on the two of you and tugs his tail.
“Braeburn! I think its time you went an talk to granny Smith, she is looking all over for ya.”
“Shucks, If I had know sooner, well nice talking to ya Anon cant wait to share a drink with ya sometime.” He winks before departing, Applejack laughs nervously
“Oh that Braeburn, always a kidder. Hehehe.” She almost zones out before trotting over to some of her nearby relatives.
“There you are!” Looking behind, you see Twilight and the gang. “We are getting ready to be seated for the dinner; we need you over there Anon.”
Walking and talking to them all, it kind of feels like back when you first got here. It was nice to see them again, even if they never really connected with you, they were still friends. Looking at the setup, it looks more like an outdoor theater. The “head” of the table is perched on a stage with several rows of tables lined up in front. Everyone at the tables have a clear sight of the stage, Applejack knows you hate being the center of attention, that’s probably why she sent you off while they setup. Guess you can’t run away now, with a sigh you go on stage and have a seat. Everybody almost immediately stops talking and all eyes are on you, the one and only human in Equestria, and they have a front row seat. This kind of sideshow freak act really pissed you off when you first got here, everybody treated you different. Like you were either above them, or below them, it was annoying having to be treated super nice or shitty.
Applejack was no exception either, at first she flat out didn’t trust you and she made no effort in hiding that. She would never say it to your face mostly from fear, but she was the most distant of them all, at first.
“Thank ya all fer coming, now lets eat!” Granny Smith shouts as everyone chuckles in unison, you were so lost in thought you didn’t even notice Applejack and the others had taken their seats. “What’s funneh? I wanted to eat already.” Big Mac whispers in her ear “Oh that’s right…I forgot. And now my granddaughter Applejack has some words ta say ta y’all, then we can eat.” Scattered laughter follows as Applejack takes center stage. She clears her throat
“Thanks granny, it’s been sometime since y’all were here so let me get ya up ta speed. Sweet Apple Acres has been expanding mighty fierce and we have been working our butts off I tell ya, isn’t that right Big Mac?”
“Eeyup.”
“We also were givin some thought on expanding and hire some workers for the farm.” The family members all start talking amongst themselves, apparently this is big news. “Now now, before you all start getting excited, I want ya all to know that I will be offering the job first to any Apple that is interested in comin to work fer us. I know not all of us have big farms and some of yall get pretty restless, so if anyp0ny is interested, talk to me when ya get a chance.” Granny Smith begins to flail her hoof in the air
“I have something I would like ta say!”
“Course granny the floor is always yours.” She takes a step back and lets granny take the stage
“Apple Bloom has herself a little colt friend, he is just the most handsome fella.” “Granny!” Apple Bloom shouts painfully embarrassed and face the brightest shade of red possible. All the other family members start teasing her a bit before having a good laugh.
“He is just a friend, honest! Granny just gets ahead of herself is all.” She chuckles trying to save face but it’s far too late for that. After some of the commotion has calmed, Applejack continues.
“I see a lot of new faces here tonight, and as you can tell we have one up here tonight as well. Anon can ya come up?”
“Oh god.” You grimace, as you get up and walk over. You knew this was coming, but you were hoping to not have been put on the spot.
“Anon here has been working fer us fer almost half a year, he eats, sleeps and breaths the farm. He’s been like a member of the family, and if I didn’t know any better, I would swear he was an Apple.” Scattered laughter follows as Applejack waits for it die down.
“He may not say it often, but I know he gets lonesome without his family around. He tells me how he misses the days when he and his family would get together, much like this, eating, laughing and spending time with the ones you love. Sure he has friends now, but he is still missing a family.” She turns around to face you as she rests on her hind legs. “Anon, I want you to be a member of our family; Apple Bloom can be yer sister, Big Mac can be yer brother, and I can be yer wife.” She scuffs a hoof on the floor and her face turns red “Anon will you marry me?” Apple Bloom brings out a ring, but its one for ponies, so you can’t possibly wear it. You take the ring and hold it.
“Say yes Anon, that way I can have two brothers and you can have a little sister.” She smiles; returning her smile you pat her on the head. Applejack completely floored you with that, searching inside for the right words but drawing blanks. You settle on a simple answer for a simple question, no point in over thinking it, besides you love Applejack so why not?
“Sure.” A smile as big as can be dawns on her face, she lunges forward into your arms as you catch, and embrace her tightly. She nuzzles you before the two of you share a kiss.
“I love you Anon.”
“I love you too Applejack.” Everyone starts stomping and cheering, looking round; you notice granny Smith is eating and gives you a pony equivalent of a thumbs up while Apple Bloom looks on in amazement that her big sister is married now. Twilight and Fluttershy are wiping a few tears from their eyes with some tissues; Rainbow Dash sneaks one to blow her nose. Rarity and Pinkie Pie are both giggling up a storm, and Big Mac gives you a nod.
When it’s all over, you and Applejack are sitting together and saying goodbye to every member of the family. They all personally want to congratulate you both before leaving; turns out everyone knew that she was going to propose except you. Now that you’re an Apple, you can know the family secrets. The last to show is Braeburn,
“You take good care of my cousin Anon, she is a mighty special mare.” He tips his hat to Applejack “You have yourself a good night cuz.” He winks suggestively before trotting off, Applejack blushes
“Braeburn!” A chuckle comes out from you as Rarity and Apple Bloom approach.
“Congratulations Applejack darling, you simply must let me make you a wedding dress.” Applejack composes herself before facing her,
“Rarity, I couldn’t think of a better mare.” They both share a hug
“Come by when you get a chance, we can get you fitted. Also I hope you don’t mind, but I will be taking Apple Bloom tonight. She and the girls will be spending the night at my place; they’re going to see if they can get their cutie marks as…wedding planners.” She shutters a bit knowing full well they’ll be pestering her all night. Applejack gives her little sister a hug
“Be on your best behavior, and try not to give Rarity a hard a time.”
“I won’t sis.” After they leave, you and Applejack head inside, you see granny Smith and Big Mac with Braeburn.
“I thought ya left?” Applejack asks with the slightest bit or irritation,
“Oh I’m gonna, we’re just about ready to go, aint that right?”
“We?” She says softly as Big Mac walks up next to her,
“Thought we’d let you kids have some alone time, to plan for the weddin and such.” Big Mac says as Applejack hangs her head not really saying much and grumbling.
“We’ve have taken up to much time as it is, we don’t want to miss our train now.” Said Braeburn as they all nod in agreement and begin to head out,
“Why I remember when I was a spry mare getting ready to get married.” Granny stops before leaving, “It was a hoot! You two have fun now.” She laughs before heading outside.
“By the way Anon, I left you a little something on the kitchen table. Hope ya like it.” He tips his hat before closing the door.
There’s a deep silence for a few minutes as Applejack and you stand in an empty house.
“Man, I thought they’d never leave haha.” You smile at Applejack but she remains still, looking at the floor and cuffing her hoof at it.
“Something wrong?”
“I’ve never been so embarrassed in mah life!” She shouts, the sudden outburst startles you.
“What are you talking about? Why are you embarrassed?” You ask with a laugh, hoping it will defuse the situation but you know it won’t.
“Why are you not embarrassed!? They’re so obviously leaving us alone to have relations!” You look at her puzzled
“So? We have sex all the time, I didn’t see you make a big deal about me fisting you last night.” She stomps up to you
“Nop0ny knew we did that! All my relatives are gonna know we had sex tonight and I’m embarrassed about that! You saw the way Braeburn winked!” She catches her breath “I don’t like ponies knowing when I’m gonna be intimate, especially family.” She heads over to the sofa and sits; you sit across from her on the floor. “I don’t know, I think we should just hold off on tonight Anon.”
Hearing this you sigh and place both arms around her neck,
“Look we don’t have to if you don’t want to, but they left us alone because they wanted us to enjoy tonight, as husband and wife. They wouldn’t do that if they wanted to shame you.”
Applejack grumbles something to herself
“Besides how often do we really get time alone like this? Don’t you think we should make the most of it?” Applejack mulls it over for a few minutes; she looks up giving a shy smile
“Well, I always did want to try doing it in the kitchen.”
The morning light creeps along the floor, slowly making its way to the two bodies huddled together. The sunlight shines on your faces, after some groaning, Applejack seeks shelter by burying her face under her hat. Not having the luxury of headwear, you’re forced to wake up. Light gleams off the bottle of wine Braeburn had left; it casts an emerald green shadow on the floor and reflects brightly, adding more irritation to the rude awakening. Seeing as the sun pretty much forced you to wake up, you head to the kitchen and prepare some coffee.
It started out as some foreplay in the kitchen, when the two of you noticed Braeburn’s gift sitting on the counter, you talked her into having a celebratory drink. Though she was reluctant at first, a few drinks really loosened her up and removed her of her inhibitions. The last time you saw her like that was at the bar; the difference now is that you didn’t hold back from how you felt. The two of you wasted no time as the night was spent satisfying each other in just about every room you could, save for Big Mac, Apple Bloom, and Granny Smith’s. Against the kitchen counter was by far your favorite of the night, the way she teased you by shaking her butt suggestively really was the straw that broke the camels back. Applejack entering the room pulls you out of your thoughts,
“You want some food?”
“Ugh don’t even mention that Anon, I really feel close to losing it. Just pour me some of that coffee.” She has a seat across from you, while you prepare her cup. She takes its up and with little sips begins to drink. “I shouldn’t have drank Braeburn’s gift, he always goes fer the hard stuff.”
“When should we plan the wedding?” You ask as she takes another sip of the coffee, her tired eyes and loose mane would look terrible to anyone else, but she looks beautiful to you.
“It would have to be after the harvest, and nothing fancy, just a small party for our friends and family would be nice.” She gives a smile and trots over to you; she pushes you against the seat, giving you a kiss while you embrace her. “Good morning dear.” For a time neither of you feel like talking, there is no need to talk. This is first morning you’re sharing together as husband and wife, and even though it’s spent a little hung over, it’s the best morning you have ever had.
Applejack made for a beautiful blushing bride, the dress Rarity made looked great on her, even though she didn’t like how frilly it looked. Despite Rarity’s pleas, Applejack still wore her trusty hat to the wedding.
“This hat has been with me for the best and worst days of my life, wedding or funeral I’m wearing it.” She told Rarity when asked why she would wear it on her big day. Applejack chose Rainbow Dash to be her best mare, she gave it lots of thought and in the end she picked Rainbow. Spike was the best man for you, and he milked it for all it was worth. The bachelor party went by uneventfully, but the food and company were good. As for the wedding itself, it was pretty standard.
Despite Applejack saying she wanted a small party, she invited her whole family. The party could have lasted a long time, but everyone insisted the two of you move onto the honeymoon. Spike and the kids asked what that was about and Rarity said
“It’s a nice relaxing private party, away from all the noise for the bride and groom.” You know she worded it like that just to get under Applejack’s skin, Pinkie Pie jumped into the conversation and said
“Oh my gosh, can I join your honeymoon party!? Is there gonna be cake and pie?!” You gave a big grin and said
“Well if you really want to join in..” Applejack stepped on your foot and kindly told her it was just for the two of you. Everyone was nice enough to let you use Sweet Apple Acres again for the honeymoon. Applejack was not really happy about you having your way with her with the dress on, and furious when you told her to speak like Rarity. Still she looked sexy as hell in that wedding dress, and more so when speaking fancy. She was surprisingly good at it, which she credited to living with aunt and Uncle Orange, wherever they are, thanks you.
As great as the honeymoon was though, all good things must end and it’s back to business as usual.
“C’mon Anon upsy daisy, we got apples to buck!” She makes it a point to nudge you out of bed if you sleep late; you give a deep groan not wanting to leave the comforts of bed.
“Ok ok, I’m up.” You say with a grunt
“Great, get ready and meet me at the north orchard.” As she leaves the room you rub your face and try to shake off the fatigue, after a quick shower and breakfast you head out to find Applejack. Spotting Big Mac at the barn with some new employees, he notices you and gives a nod. All in all, you hired about 10 ponies to take up the job of working the different orchards. Unfortunately most of the hires don’t stay very long. Between Applejacks ridiculous demands, and the hard labor, the quitting rate is sky-high. Big Mac is often stuck showing the ropes to the new employees, since Applejack and Granny Smith tend to scare most of them off when they do it. You return his nod and head out to meet Applejack,
“Hope these guys last longer than the last ones.” You say to yourself.
The north orchard has been getting pretty big, Applejack paid a pony a rather handsome sum to let her destroy the home and turn it into farmland. As you recall that pony is now living quite comfortably in another town. People called her a tyrant for expanding so much, but you knew better. Behind every expansion, renovation, and hiring, would be days of back and forth discussing all the pros and cons of the choice.
Applejack made sure that everyone’s standard of living would remain intact or improve, even her workers, who she worked to the bone, took home very hefty checks. It’s the biggest reason why everyone wants to try their hand..er hoof at working the farm despite the massive quit rate.
“Anon, over here!” Applejacks voice breaks you from the moment and you see her waiving a hoof, right beside her are several empty buckets.
“What happened? I thought you would have bucked all the apples off the trees by now.”
“I would have were it not fer these stubborn little fellas.” She says while looking up at the trees “Aint none of them ripe, guess I made a mistake.” She sighs,
“No, I can see one apple that’s ripe.” She scans the trees in front of her
“Where? I didn’t see any and I’ve been here fer hours!” Without hesitation, you grab her butt and give it a squeeze
“This one!” You laugh as she picks up her leg with an irritated look on her face
“Gosh darn it Anon! I will buck your apples if you don’t let go right now!”
(Well that plan backfired beautifully.) Letting go she moves forward out of grabbing distance and sits to face you
“We got 4 weeks to fill out orders fer 5 towns, our town, and that’s not counting the school lunch contracts. I need everyp0ny working from dusk till dawn to get this done. Now Big Mac is training some new blood that we need desperately, and the last thing any of us need, if you slacking off and grabbing my butt during work.” She pauses “I may be yer wife, but I’m also your boss. I can’t be both at one time, another slip up like that, and I will put you on ice. You got that?” She gives a face that a boss would give her subordinate, she clearly means business.
“Yes ma’am.”
“Can you fucking believe she lectured me?!” You shout as Rainbow Dash and Big Mac are sitting besides you. After visiting the north and east orchards, Rainbow Dash swooped by and you decided it was time for a lunch break. Applejack didn’t join in, and it was probably for the best after that little spat. “It’s not like I’m her husband or anything.” You say sarcastically, Big Mac gives a chuckle.
“Well don’t that just beat all Anon, looks like yer in the dog house tonight. Just keep them doodads off Winona; they got ya in enough trouble as it is.” He laughs as Rainbow chuckles
“So have you made any progress on getting into the Wonderbolts?”
“No, I keep getting rejected from the academy. Looks like I’m missing something to join them, Spitfire wants me to join but the academy makes the final call. Even with her reference it’s not enough to get me in.” She remains quiet for a minute before taking a drink, it sucks she can’t get in and you very well can’t leave her hanging.
“Those academy guys are stupid for not letting you in, Spitfire knows you have what it takes, and we all can see how capable you are. Trust me those guys will come around when they stop being ignorant and see what a great candidate you are.” She smiles after hearing this
“Thanks Anon.” She gives you a hug and nuzzles you a little. You notice Big Mac is shooting you a glare (Does he really think I’m trying funny stuff with Rainbow Dash?!) You think
“Hey when you and AJ have some free time, we should all go out.”
“That would be great.”
“Well see ya, later Big Mac.” Before Big Mac can return with his signature nod, she is off. Remembering the look he had given you, staying does not seem like a good idea. “Well I better get back to..”
“Anon.” (Oh shit here it comes.)
“I consider you family, at first I didn’t think you deserved mah sister, but you showed me wrong. Now I personally don’t need to worry about you doing any funny business, I trust ya, but Rainbow is going through a tough time. She needs good friends like you, and I’m ok with that, but keep it just friends.” Though it bothers you that not only did you get lectured by both Big Mac, and Applejack, the fact that he felt the need to tell you this, added salt to the wound. Still you can understand his concern; he does worry about her.
“I love Applejack; I would never do something like that to her.” Big Mac says nothing for a moment
“I’m glad to hear that.” He finally replies before smiling and leaving towards the barn. It dawns on you that Applejack hasn’t eaten a thing since this morning, after a stop by the house and preparing a large meal for her, you make your way to the south orchard. “Applejack! Applejack!” You shout but no reply, “Apple..”
“I’m over here Anon.” As you turn towards the sound, you see Applejack sitting in the shade of a large tree. Making no effort to hide the smile you have, you take a seat next to her and take out the food. She looks reluctantly at it before her stomach growls; she sighs and takes a bite of the sandwich from your hands.
“That’s not very boss like behavior.” She swallows and takes a sip from one of the drinks you brought
“I’m on break, so I’m a sharing a meal with my husband, not an employee.” She leans in but you kiss her first, the rest of the meal is spent in silence, the rest of the day however is spent working your asses off. Just think, only 4 weeks left to go.
After getting chewed out by Applejack yesterday, the last thing you wanted to do was take time off work. So having her wake up to you slumped over a toilet with a fever, diarrhea, and vomiting was not how you wanted to start the work day. “Oh fer crying out loud, of all the possible times ta get sick.” She groans before leaving the room. Feeling like shit, both physically and mentally, you crawl back into bed and cover up. As sore as you are, you couldn’t even leave the room, let alone work the orchards. As you drift back into sleep, clutching your stomach in some vain attempt at calming it down, you reflect on the crappy feeling of letting her down.
The sleep was enjoyable; you had already shat and puked out most everything before Applejack woke up. Waking up you could feel your body on fire and every move was painful, you’ve never wanted a glass of water so badly before. Your throat and mouth felt dry like sandpaper, and every breath you took only intensified the feeling.
“Here.” A familiar voice called out, you turn and see Applejack looking down at you. She is holding a glass of water in her mouth, which you take up with strength you didn’t know existed in you. It was cool and refreshing while it slid down your throat and one of the best drinks of water you could remember. You let out a relived sigh and lay back down. “You’ve been asleep fer a few hours.”
You stare up at the ceiling mouth agape and breathing heavy “What about the orchards?”
“Ah heck, I called in some workers that had the day off. I couldn’t leave you like this sugar cube.” She smiles as she leans in to kiss you, before she can connect you stop her.
“You’ll get sick too.”
Her smile gets bigger “I don’t care.” She whispers before planting one on you.
A few hours pass as Applejack moves in and out taking care of your every need, she feeds and accommodates you, and you can’t help but enjoy all the attention. Mostly everything you eat does not stay in for very long, so the meals get progressively smaller. By the time dinner rolls around, Applejack brings in just a single apple, and places it next to you.
“Us farm folk rarely get sick, I like to think it’s because we eat lots of apples. Try this and see if it stays down.” She looks on as you grab the apple and begin eating it. “When ya feel better sweetheart I’ll let ya eat out my apple.” She winks “So get well soon.” She leaves without waiting for a reply, guess she just wanted to tease you.
The next thing you know, its morning again, and you still feel like shit. Applejack comes in with breakfast and plenty of water. You don’t like shitting out waterfalls, but it’s supposed to help you get better faster. Food continues refusing to stay down, by dinner; you honestly dread seeing anything other than water.
“I know ya can’t keep the food down, but ya have to try and eat somethin.” She pleads as you groan.
“I’m just gonna fucking throw it up again, what’s the point?”
“Well we won’t know fer sure until ya try.” She looks at you with those big green eyes full of concern and worry.
You exhale loudly and grab some of the food she brought, looking at it suspiciously before you eat it. Applejack smiles, as it looks like the food is staying down; her smile fades as you’re running to the bathroom.
Three days in and things are only looking worse, Applejack is looking tired and fatigued as she comes in and sits beside you.
“Don’t ya worry Anon, I sent Twilight out ta get Zecora, if anyp0ny can fix ya up, it’s her.”
By this point talking is impossible, feeling all strength gone and pain surging with every move, you honestly want to die. The wait is excruciating but you finally can hear other voices downstairs. After some back and forth you can hear footsteps coming closer.
“ and he just keeps getting worse.” Applejack concludes, as her, Twilight, and Zecora enter.
Zecora trots over and begins evaluating you; she listens to your stomach for a moment before asking for a urine sample. She mixes in some potion she had and a puff of smoke rises.
“Hmm.” She looks deep in thought while reaching into her bag.
“Well what does it look like? What’s wrong with him?” Applejack asks impatiently
“A small creature most fowl, made its way into his bowl. As luck would have it a cure is here, Applejack, a hair from his head my dear.”
Applejack trots over to you and nuzzles you comfortingly, before yanking a small clump of hair out. You grimace as it sends a wave of pain through your body.
“What do you need his hair for?” Twilight asks, as she always does to understand more.
“It is but one of many things I need, a very powerful remedy to do the deed. After I mix this all up, he will be as spry and energetic as a young pup.” She smiles
She begins mixing and adding things to a decent sized wooden glass and it fizzles a little every now and then. After a few minutes of this, she brings it close to you.
“Now drink this all as though it was fine wine, after that and 3 days rest, you should be just fine.”
Wanting to be done with all this crap, you grab it and drink it all in one go, it tastes terrible and bitter, and the fact that your own hair was in it made it more gross. Dizzy and disoriented after it hits your stomach, you can feel the room spinning while your vision blurs. After the room spins for what seems like an eternity, you close your eyes and pass out.
Waking up and feeling well rested, you get out of bed and head downstairs. You spot Applejack sitting at the table drinking coffee; you sneak up behind her embrace her. You take a big sniff of her mane before kissing the back of her head; you always loved how her hair smelled like fresh soil but still had a soft feminine aroma.
“Anon!” She gasps; at the unexpected affection and that you’re out of bed. “What’re you doin out of bed?! C’mon we gotta get you back upstairs.” She gets up from her seat and starts pushing you up the stairs and into bed.
Turning on your side, you pat the empty spot next to you “All right I’m in bed, why not climb in and join me.” You smile suggestively
“Zecora said you need yer rest, we can fool around after ya get better.”
“But I feel fi….” You can feel a sharp pain in your stomach begin to rise; you hold it and start to curl into a ball on the bed “Arrghh!” You wince
“Ya see!” Applejack sounds more worried than angry “Please Anon get some rest.” She grabs an extra blanket and tosses it over you, “Stay in bed and sleep.” She concludes before leaving the room.
Aside from the occasional wake up from Applejack to drink more water and eat, the 2nd day goes by pretty well. The pain has subsided a great deal and the food you eat actually stays down. By the 3rd day, you feel great, like you could go back and work the orchards. Applejack is not as certain and tells you to take another couple days off to be sure you’re at full strength. The whole time she rarely leaves your side, it’s nice to be alone with her and talk for once. Both of you have been so caught up in maintaining the farm, that you don’t talk like you used to before the relationship got serious. You also told her about what Rainbow Dash had said about all going out for something, she liked the idea.
Finally the last day has arrived and not a moment too soon, you’ve been so cooped up and restless having bed rest forced upon you. Working nonstop had become the norm for you, so having all this free time really frustrated you. Applejack enters the room with some more water.
“I’m good Applejack, I was fully healed yesterday, remember?” You say with the slightest bit of irritation, god the sight of that water pisses you off. “Besides I don’t think I can take another drink.”
Applejack places the pitcher on a table by the bed and places her forehead against yours, “Well ya aint got a fever no more, and you definitely aint in pain. You’re right, I think ya got a clean bill of health.” She sounds genuinely happy and nuzzles you “Now get yourself cleaned up Anon, when ya get out we can pick up where we left off.” She winks before she begins to tidy up around the room; you get off the bed, grab a towel and head for the bathroom.
The shower was uneventful, you were expecting her to come in or something but she never did. So after drying off, you head outside and see Applejack resting on the bed. You try to sneak up on her, but she opens her eyes and looks right at you. She gives a big smile as you do the same.
“Why don’t ya take off that towel and slip into something more comfortable.” She gives a sly smile, her golden hair is tussled and dangles in front of her eyes.
You drop your towel and proceed to the bed; Applejack rolls over and appears to be fidgeting with something. She turns again and using her mouth throws a change of clothing that you recognize immediately.
“Those are my work duds.” You say flatly
“Before ya plow my field sugar cube, the orchards have been dying for some TLC from you.” She winks. With a sigh you grab the clothing and start getting dressed, as you put on your boots, a pair of gloves plops beside you. “Fer protection, don’t want ya catching anything.” She jokes
“Ha ha.”
The two of you work the south orchard with a couple of stallions; you never liked working with the other employees aside from Big Mac. On several occasions a few of the more ballsy stallions hit on or flirt with Applejack, and even though it’s childish, you feel a bit possessive with her. One stallion in particular known for his good looks, strength, and prowess with mares is unfortunately working with you today. It’s no secret he has a thing for Applejack, and openly asked her out before getting shot down. He didn’t know she was married, but you still catch him eyeing her at times. Like right fucking now!
“Hey Strong Oak, get on the ball!” You shout from afar “We need those apples off the tree not on them!”
“Sorry boss, I was taking a breather, some of us don’t have the luxury of staying home sick and still get paid.” He laughs, now the way he says it, is just enough to be an honest statement, but you know he was jabbing at you. The other stallion sensing the tension building grabs his cart and moves to the farthest tree he can find.
Applejack upon hearing this, turns around and trots over to Strong Oak, “If ya aint feelin well, you should take the day off. You’ve been with us since the start, and I would gladly pay ya time off fer all ya done.”
“That’s really kind of you boss, but I’m made out of tougher stuff than most, I don’t need bed rest. Sides, if it isn’t much trouble, I would like to use that time to visit my grandma in Canterlot next week. It’s gonna be her birthday, and I don’t want to miss it.”
“That’s so noble of you.” Applejack’s soft spot for family has been touched “Look, take the next 2 weeks off, rest, get her something nice and I will cover all the expenses.”
Strong Oak has this look of joy and excitement “Fucking faker.” You bitterly say under breath.
“That’s so kind of you boss, I owe ya big for this.” He says “When I get back, I’m gonna work double-time for you, I cant begin to thank you enough.”
“Aww heck, jus get going, ya cant keep yer granny waiting like that.” She says as Strong Oak brings her close into a hug, he nuzzles her just a bit before breaking away. “Come by later tonight tah get yer check.” She smiles, Strong Oak trots away with a big smile across his face and he makes damn sure to pass by you on his way out. You grumble out some curses after he passes
“C’mon Anon, we got the entire south orchard to buck, lets get a move on!” Applejack shouts, having your good mood ruined, you childishly pout for the rest of the shift.
You and Applejack had to call it quits early because its payday. You were bringing out cartloads of bits to Big Mac and AJ, who were giving out the bags to the employees. Those damn things were heavy as fuck, so bringing out the last cart; you throw yourself on the ground next to Applejack to rest up. Seeing the last stallion take his bag, you wave him off and start packing up.
“Am I too late to pick up my bits boss?” Strong Oak asks Applejack,
“Of course not, I got yer bags right here.” She smiles as she starts setting 6 bags of bits on the table, Oak looks at them happily but he soon realizes he won’t be able to carry them all. You smirk at his misfortune,
“I know it’s a lot of bags, but don’t worry, I’ll help ya take em home.”
That smirk got wiped clean off after hearing that,
“Nah sweetie let me do it, you go in and rest, I’ll take care of this.” You say grabbing three of the bags
“I appreciate it sugar cube, but Strong Oak and I can take this time to talk before he goes on his vacation. So I don’t mind none, but it’s sweet of ya to offer.”
Not wanting to see Applejack leave with that asshole, you nod and quickly head inside. You sprawl yourself on a chair in the kitchen. Looking across the table, you notice a little colt looking at you nervously.
“Who the hell are you and why are you here?” You ask angrily, the little colt opens his mouth as though about to speak, but you hear Apple Bloom behind you.
“Anon this is my friend Silver Straw. I don’t think you’ve met before, but he’s nice enough. Silver this is my brother Anon, he seems big and scary, but he wouldn’t hurt a fly.” She said reassuringly
“So are Sweetie Bell and Scoots waiting for you two at the tree house?” You ask
“No we were just on our way out to grab some dinner, Sweetie and Scootaloo are coming over next week.”
“Oh cool, I know a great place that serves some nice salads and they give kids a discount.”
“Anon I’m not a little filly anymore.” Laughed Apple Bloom, she looks down “Besides it was just supposed to be me and Silver tonight, ya know like a…date.”
Its true Apple Bloom has blossomed into a young mare, but you still wanted to believe she would be your naïve little sister a while longer, without the thoughts of boys and dating. She had pretty much given up on getting her cutie mark, they all did really. Though they decided to pursue different things, they still get together and talk from time to time. Still knowing they all are growing up makes you sad, but we all can’t stay kids forever.
“I’m sorry Anon, I didn’t mean to upset ya, we can go eat next time ok?”
You walk up to her and give her a hug “It’s ok, it’s not your fault or anything. I just have a lot on my mind today, ya know with the harvest and all. You two have fun tonight all right?”
“Got it!” She perked right up and it made you feel better about the whole thing.
You follow them up to the gate and go eye level to Silver, “Now you take good care of Apple Bloom and bring her back early you got that? She is my little sis and means the world to me, not only that, but you will have to answer to both me and Big Mac.” You smile
“Anon! Stop giving him a hard time.”
“Its ok Apple Bloom, I know how big brothers can be; they only want what’s best for their family.” His voice was much deeper and he spoke more confidently than you were expecting, it actually caught you off guard a little.
“Well I better get back inside and take a shower. It was nice meeting you Silver.” You hug Apple Bloom and head towards the house. You turn one last time to see them both walking off into town.
“Kills me to watch her go, but if she’s anything like her big sister, she can take care of herself.”
You turn to see Big Mac next to you watching Apple Bloom head towards town as well, with a smile you simply say “Eeyup.”
Once in your room, you head into the shower to clean up, exiting the shower and drying yourself off you notice Applejack is nowhere in sight. Now you’re really getting worried, after getting dressed and in bed, you kill time reading a book. By the time you get to the 4th chapter, the door swings open as Applejack enters.
“Howdy Anon, sorry it took so long.”
“Where the hell have you been?”
“I was talking with Strong Oak and just sort of lost track of time.” She laughs
“……..”
Applejacks expression changes to a concerned look “Anon what’s the matter?”
You exhale “I don’t like you hanging out with that guy, I know how he feels about you and it makes me uncomfortable.” Applejacks concern completely shifts from her face and turns into anger, (Oh shit I’m in for it now.) You think
“Why of all the..” She stomps up to you “Are you accusing me of being unfaithful!?”
“No! I just don’t trust him.”
“How is that any different? It takes two to tango darlin. You not trusting him, is as good as you not trusting me. Yeah he had a thing fer me, but that’s in the past, it don’t mean we can’t still be friends. Now Big Mac told me about the hug and nuzzle ya shared with Rainbow, and did I get jealous? No, I trust both of you and even if I didn’t know Rainbow, I would still trust you.”
You give a sigh, and look at the bed sheets. (Damn Big Mac and his big mouth.) You think, Applejack nudges you out of your thoughts.
“Now tell me Anon, look me right in the eye and tell me, do you trust me?”
Meeting her gaze, you put an arm around her neck and rub it.
“Of course I do.”
“Great.” She says as she makes her way to the bathroom “By the way, Oak invited me to go with him to meet his grandma and family. We will be sharing a room and we might have to share a bed.” Applejack looks at you on the bed and seeing your expression of shock.
Before you can get an angry word out, you hear Applejack laughing.
“I was jokin Anon, oh yer so cute when yer jealous.”
“Oh my god, don’t do that shit AJ.”
“C’mon since yer up, come join me in the shower.” She gives a seductive look before entering the bathroom, with you gladly following behind her.
The next morning you actually wake up before Applejack, finally a golden opportunity.
“C’mon Applejack don’t dilly dally, we got us apples to buck!” You say while nudging her up. She groans and fidgets a bit before opening her eyes.
“I must be getting old if yer wakin up before me.”
“Nah I’m just gettin better at working here, besides you still look like a young mare to me.” You say warmly
“It’s too early for sugar.” She smiles
At the breakfast table, you and Applejack are enjoying some orange juice when Apple Bloom shows up and has a seat. Applejack looks at her and smiles
“So how did yer date go?” Apple Bloom blushes a little and pours herself a cup of juice as well.
“Umm Anon, can me and Applejack talk in private?” Applejack looks at you and nods for you to go.
“Sure I’m gonna get a start on the orchards then.” You say while you get up and head upstairs to change.
“What’s on yer mind sugar cube? You can tell yer big sis anything.”
Apple Bloom takes a deep breath “I had my first kiss last night.”
Applejack exhales “Oh thank Celestia, I thought you were pregnant or somethin.” A smile appears on Apple Bloom,
“It felt really nice, it was weird at first, but I felt good inside. I really like him Applejack, I think he might be the one fer me.”
“If you want to keep dating him that’s fine and dandy, but most ponies have more relationships than that.”
“You and Anon didn’t, you two had a storybook marriage.”
“Sweetie, that was not a storybook marriage.” She laughed “I didn’t have time fer a relationship and Anon well he is from a strange land. It was odd but it worked, that don’t mean it’s the same fer everyp0ny.”
“Why did you fall in love with Anon?”
“Why?” She looks deep in thought and remembers the bar proposition “Very well can’t tell her that.” She whispers “Well he is a charming fella, and I thought he was handsome. After that we just got to know each other better and it took off from there.”
“What was yer first kiss like?” She asked without missing a beat “Was it romantic?”
Thoughts of the bar come flooding back “Well that’s a story fer yer wedding.” She laughs “We can talk more after I get back from the orchards.” She says while putting on her hat. “Just promise me you two won’t visit any bars anytime soon.” She winks
“Eww I don’t want to drink!”
Applejack laughs “Keep it that way.”
A loud smack rings out through the orchard, as several apples begin to fall from the tree you had hit. Using a special kind of bat so you could buck apples made the job easier; suddenly you feel a rubbing sensation on your back. Looking back you see its Applejack.
“What did Apple Bloom want to talk about with you?”
“First love, first kiss, things like that.” She pauses “Our little Apple Bloom is growing up so fast; pretty soon she will be bringing her kids over fer us to foal-sit.”
“Aww that’s gonna cut in on our lovemaking.” You tease
“We can do it when they sleep.” She nuzzles
“You naughty mare you.” You playfully say, as Applejack giggles and kisses your neck, looks like she is going into heat again.
“Ahem!” Coughs a deep voice “If y’all are done we kind of need to buck those trees.”
And there it goes; Applejack turns bright red and turns to see Big Mac with several stallions. Without saying a word the two of you leave to work another orchard on the opposite side, the both of you keep it professional all day.
After a grueling workload, the 4 weeks of harvest are up. Turns out Applejack couldn’t fill the needs of one town; she apologized and gave them the information of a competitor. Even without the town, it was still an impressive load of money that was brought in. All the stallions got a nice bonus on top of the regular pay, incentive to keep working the farm you guessed. As the last stallion was walking away with his money in bag, you turn towards Applejack.
“Well looks like that’s everyone.” You sigh “I’m going to bed.”
“Hold yer horses there hun, we still have one last thing to do tonight.” You look at her with a confused expression “Today were meeting Rainbow fer dinner.”
“Oh yeah I forgot, but why couldn’t we do it tomorrow?”
“Because I’m heading over ta Appleloosa to look over the land I bought there and to see what my family has been doin.”
A sudden gust of air nudges you slightly out of place, only one pony ever does that.
“Well if it isn’t Rainbow, we were jus talking about ya.” Rainbow Dash lands softly and hugs Applejack. “How’s my best mare been doin?”
“Pretty good, but I want to save the catching up for when we eat, I’m starving. You two ready to go?”
Applejack sniffs herself a bit “Well I could use a shower, what about you Anon?”
“Yeah I need a shower as well.”
“Oh that’s cool, I don’t mind waiting. I’m gonna go talk with Big Mac till you guys finish.”
Without another word she is off towards the barn, while you and Applejack head inside. After a shower and change of cloths, the two of you head out and find Rainbow Dash who was eating apples with Big Mac. All ready to go, the 3 of you head to a nearby town.
The place Applejack had taken you caught you and Rainbow by surprise. It was a real fancy looking place that stood out compared to the rural look and feel of Ponyville. When she gave her name, the waiter immediately was at attention and pandered to all of you. Once at your table, everyone respectively placed their order and drink, now it was just a matter of waiting for the food.
“So Rainbow, what have ya been up to as of late?” Applejack asks while sipping from her soda.
“Oh you know nothing much, I’ve been practicing my aerial stunts, coaching Scootaloo on some of the more basic techniques, and getting into the Wonderbolt Academy.” She nonchalantly said as she looks at the surprised expression on both your faces.
“That’s great sugar cube I knew you had it in ya!”
“Yeah good shit Rainbow, when did this happen?”
“About 2 weeks ago actually, Spitfire delivered the news to me. I’m so excited I’m finally going to be a Wonderbolt!” She squeals as she fly’s out of her chair and does a flip, doing little to contain her excitement.
The waiter returns with the food floating around him and places it on the table, this brings Rainbow back down to Earth.
“Finally, I’m so hungry, I could eat a dragon.” She looks at the food intently while rubbing her stomach before she starts to dig in. Applejack has a curious look on her face as though remember some past event, it lasts for a minute before she calmly starts to eat.
“So what’s the deal with you two?”
“Oh aint much to tell, we work, have fun, and go out when we can.”
“Plain old Applejack and Anon, you two were meant for each other, I can’t imagine living such a dull life….no offense.” Her words did rub you the wrong way
Applejack has a good chuckle “We aint an old married couple jus yet Rainbow, we still like ta cut loose on occasion. We just got more responsibility than a pony that spends her days playing in the air.” You see that old competitive gleam in her eyes as her and Rainbow Dash stare each other down.
That same gleam appears on Rainbow Dash as a smile starts to form, she turns over in the direction of the waiter “Yo waiter, get me a bottle of the strongest thing you got and two glasses!”
“Yes ma’am.” He confirms before going to fetch it.
You sit in-between them and shift your gaze between the two, you have not seen Applejack so pumped up in a long time. She was really missing that rivalry in her life, so you didn’t mind seeing her enjoy herself like this. The waiter brings the drink and sets it on the table with the two glasses; he gives a bow before leaving.
“All right Applejerk, think yer mare enough to beat me in a drinking game?”
“Honey, I’ve bested ya in just about every game we play, this wont be any different.”
At the halfway point of the bottle, both Applejack and Rainbow are getting tipsy, you have no idea what was in that bottle but it was some strong shit.
“Ya jus about ready…ta gave up AJ?” Rainbow slurs
Applejack looks at her glass and sighs “I know when I’ve been beat Rainbow, ya win.” She sets the glass to the side and eats some of the hay off her plate.
“Ha! I knew yer all talk…’ She takes another sip and leans into you “Ya see dat Anon?! I’m da best.” She rests her head on you before falling asleep.
“Guess she can’t fly home anymore.” You whisper
“C’mon Anon it’s late, bring her home with us. I’m gonna go pay the tab.” She yawns before falling asleep on the table, you give a sigh knowing you’re gonna have to drag them home like this.
The walk back home was not as bad as you thought it was going to be, all that work on the farm really did wonders for your strength. Though you did drop them once or twice on the way over, and Applejack would occasionally walk on her own power. Once inside, you set Rainbow Dash on the bed and Applejack crawls in next to her.
“Come to bed hun.” She says
“Why you want to have a threesome?” You joke
“If ya want.” Muttered Applejack before dozing off, you grab a blanket and toss it over them.
“Looks like its gonna have to wait for another day.” You smile as you kiss Applejack on the forehead, grabbing some extra sheets; you make your own bed on the floor and sleep.
Light shines into the bedroom directly onto Big Macs face, his window is to the sunrise so it’s a wake up he is used to. He shakes off what fatigue he has and makes his way out to the kitchen. Before he can reach the stairs however, the door to Applejacks room opens and Rainbow Dash steps into the hallway.
“What in the?!” He says in shock before he spots you coming out beside her, “Anon!” He says angrily before he notices Applejack coming out last, his face is blank and in complete shock “I’m goin back to bed.” He says before turning around and closing his door.
“What was that about?” You ask Applejack as she simply shrugs it off and heads downstairs.
At the train station you, Rainbow, and Applejack are waiting for the next train to come in. Big Mac and the gang all said their goodbyes to Applejack at the house, and now it’s just a matter of waiting.
“Now I’ll only be gone a couple weeks tops, so I will be back in time to see ya off to that Wonderbolt Academy. I’m gonna miss not having my best friend around but I know yer following yer dreams.” She smiles at Rainbow, before they hug.
“You just hurry up and get back so we can have a race before I go, don’t want ya crying about how I can only beat you after my academy training.”
A loud whistle blows and the train to Appleloosa pulls up, “All aboard the train to Appleloosa!” a conductor pony screams as other ponies start to board.
“This is me.” Applejack says as she jumps up and kisses you “I’m gonna miss you the most darling, but I will back before ya know it.” She plants one last kiss on you before darting off into the train. “See y’all later!” She waves as you and Rainbow Dash stand on the platform, watching as she shrinks in size until she is a speck in the distance. You look down feeling like a part of your heart is hollow, its going to be a long couple of weeks you can tell already. Rainbow Dash can see how down you look already.
“Hey Anon, how about you get Apple Bloom and Sweetie Bell and we all go out for some ice cream?”
“I don’t know, I think I’m just gonna head back home and sleep.”
“Aww c’mon, it’ll be fun. Besides Scootaloo has been wanting to meet up with them for a while now and this would be the perfect opportunity for them all.”
You remember how Apple Bloom had told you about meeting up with them later, and how she owed you a meal, so might as well kill two birds with one stone right?
“Sure.”
“What flavor did you get Sweetie Bell?” Asked Apple Bloom
“I just got strawberry and you?”
“Well I got a combination…”
The three mares continue to talk amongst themselves while you and Rainbow have a seat on a bench and watch.
“I remember when they were all just little fillies.” Rainbow Dash smiles “It’s kind of scary when you think about it.”
“Yeah.”
Rainbow Dash licks her ice cream cone and looks up at you before going back to looking at Scootaloo.
“They all have coltfriends now.”
“Yeah, they were pretty popular as kids so it’s no surprise. I think Sweetie is seeing that Snails kid right?”
“Snips.”
“Really?!” You ask in amazement “I never thought she would go for a pudgy kid like that.” Rainbow laughs.
“It’s not about what’s outside Anon, it’s about what’s in here.” She points to your stomach.
“Rainbow that’s my stomach.” She pulls away
“Oh you know what I mean, in any case, it turns out Snips is quite a good singer. His voice really deepened and he sings backup for Sweetie Bell.”
“Your voice hasn’t changed at all though.” You tease
“Hey! What’s wrong with my voice?!”
“Nothing, I think you have a cute voice Rainbow, I was just pointing it out.”
Rainbow Dash looks a little embarrassed and starts looking away from you.
“Well I better get going.” You say “Apple Bloom! I’m heading back home.”
“Ok!” She shouts back “Also Sweetie says to stop talking about her coltfriend!”
“Damn that mare is scary.” You joke.
The time spent with Rainbow and the mares formally know as the Cutie Mark Crusaders, really put you in brighter spirits, the walk back home was enjoyable and all your troubles felt melted away. After showering and getting dressed, you throw yourself into bed, and cover up. Looking at the empty spot next to you, it really sinks in that Applejack is gone. You keep expecting her to burst in any minute and greet you with that warm tone you’ve grown so accustomed to by now. This is the first time the two of you really spent apart in a long time, it hasn’t even been a day but you already miss not having her around. You turn on your side facing away from where Applejack would be and blow out the candle. “Good night Applejack.”
Morning does not sneak up on you today; you were awake before the sun. You had wanted to go with Applejack, but you had to stay behind to negotiate on contracts with the neighboring town mayors. With harvest season over, all you had was time off. The meetings only lasted like 2 hours, so that left you bored for things to do. Looking at the old books you have by the bed, you figured now would be as good a time as any for some new reading.
At that old familiar library, you walk in and see Twilight organizing some books.
“Twilight!” You shout to get her attention and she turns around wide eyed
“Anon! What brings you here?”
“I need to kill sometime before a meeting, thought I would visit and catch up, maybe get a book or something.”
“Oh well…Now’s not really a good time.” She grins
“Twilight? Is somep0ny there with you?” An unknown male voice calls out; looking at the stairs you see a decent sized dragon come down the steps.
“Spike? My god you’ve grown! You’re bigger than me now!”
“Yeah I’m getting better at controlling myself with my greed, I don’t go rampaging anymore.” He laughs; but this voice was not the one you had heard earlier, he still sounds like the little Spike you remember. At that moment a stallion comes downstairs as well, he was pretty sharply dressed and had light blue fur.
“Page and I were just going out, we can catch up another time, but if its books you want Spike here can help you.” Twilight and Page both trot towards the door and Twilight turns to face you. “It was really nice seeing you Anon, good luck with the meeting.”
You give a nod as they leave.
“So what did you have in mind for books today?”
“Whatever’s fine.” You sigh as you slump into a couch. “So is that Twilights boyfriend?”
“Yeah Page is a real nice guy. They met at the library in Canterlot when Twilight was going over to visit her brother.”
“That’s cool…..Spike, I’ve been dying to ask, did you and Rarity ever…”
“No she and I are just good friends, and I’m ok with that.”
You grab a random book out of a nearby shelf and flip through it. “Ya know Spike; I think I will take this one.”
After leaving the library, you head out towards the next town. Finding the mayor’s office was easy enough; you sat in the lobby and read the book you borrowed from Spike. Just a basic love story you have read hundreds of times before but for some reason you can’t get enough of. A few chapters in you get called in to meet the mayor.
“I thought I was going to be meeting with Ms. Applejack.”
“Unfortunately she could not be here today, so I will be acting as representative.”
“Then let’s get started.”
The door to your room swings open and you throw yourself on the bed. The meeting had gone on for to long and you honestly rushed through it just to get it over with.
“You look tired Anon.” Apple Bloom says out of sight “Can I get ya anything?”
“I’m getting pretty hungry, would it be all right if you got me something to eat. I don’t care what.”
“Sure thing.” You hear as her hoof steps fade. You slowly open and close your eyes for a bit before you doze off.
Waking up you look around and wonder how long you’ve been out, you see a sealed plate on the table with a little note. (Brought you lunch, but I didn’t want to wake you.) It reads. You open it up and dig in; it was pretty good despite being cold. Stuffed from the meal you lie back in bed and stare at the ceiling, sleep takes you shortly. Waking up you look outside and see that it’s dark out already, you head out and notice that everyone is asleep.
You let out a yawn “Well guess I’m stuck here now.” You head back into bed having no idea what you want to do. “This is going to be a long night.” You say to yourself.
The next several days are spent just trying to kill time; you attend boring meetings, pay the employees, and read. Rainbow Dash visits every other day and makes it a point to drag you out of the house, even when you protest that you don’t want to. Today she’s taking/forcing you and Scootaloo out to the park for a picnic.
“So how have you been holding up without your better half?” Rainbow asks.
“All right I guess, kind of reminds me when I first got here. I didn’t have anyone to talk with and I was always bored.” You joke
“Hey Rainbow Dash watch this!” Scootaloo shouts as she dismounts from the cloud she was on and begins flipping several times before flying back up inches from the ground.
“Wow! That’s a really great trick Scootaloo, keep it up!” Her encouraging words put a big smile on Scootaloo’s face as she is off again performing more tricks.
“That was a long time ago Anon, now you have AJ, her family,…and us. You shouldn’t be feeling so down just cause she isn’t around right now.”
“Yeah you got a point.” You take a bite of your sandwich “Ya know what would go good with this?” You pause “Some sweets, lets hit up Pinkie for some snacks, my treat.”
“None for me though I’m trying to watch my weight.” Rainbow laughed
The door rings open as the three of you enter Sugar Cube Corner, Scootaloo is the first up to the counter and begins eyeing the treats. You and Rainbow stroll up to the counter but don’t see Pinkie Pie anywhere.
“That’s strange; she’s normally bouncing all over us by now.” Rainbow comments
“Pinkie! You home?”
“Hi Anon.” Pinkie replies rather quietly as she gets up from behind the counter, her hair completely void of its bounce and straight, her demeanor is soft and appears to be deep in thought.
“What’s wrong Pinkie?” Asked Rainbow who beat you to the punch
“Anon……Have you heard from Applejack lately?”
“No not really, she is not the type to keep me updated on what she does. Why what’s up?”
She sighs and looks down “I’ve been having some twitches…..bad ones.” Hearing her say this makes your stomach sink. “It has me worried, so I wanted to know.”
“Rainbow I gotta go.” Without waiting for her reply, you dart out the door. Running as fast as you can towards home, thoughts cloud your mind. (Who can find out the fastest?) (Is she all right?) (Why are there no phones here?) By the time you reach the barn, you’re gasping for air and it takes a few minutes before you can calm down enough to talk, and explain what Pinkie told you.
“If Pinkie’s been having her twitchin, we really need to check on Applejack.” Apple Bloom said
“Lets all go then.” You suggest hastily
“No.” Big Mac has not said a word since you started and that made it all the more surprising “Granny is gettin on in years, and Apple Bloom is still to young, and I need you here to handle them business meetings as well. I will go check in on her and come back right quick.”
“The hell you will!” You fire back
“I know you’re worried Anon, you’re a good husband fer that. But we…” A sudden knock at the door draws everyone’s attention; a silhouetted figure of a pony with a hat stands on the other side.
A sudden feeling of relief and joy over take your previous feelings of uncertainty and anger, you can tell its hitting everyone else as well.
“It’s Applejack!” Screams Apple Bloom as she darts for the door with you not far behind, Big Mac lets out a deep sigh of relief and calmly heads for the door as well.
“Oh Applejack we were so worried that somthin had…” Opening the door Apple Bloom stops dead in her tracks, when you finally reach the door and look for yourself, you see why.
“Braeburn?” You say, both concerned and disappointed to see him.
“Howdy Anon…..we need to talk.”
The train ride over to Appleloosa was an anxious and rushed one. There was not even time to tell her friends, they would just have to find out when you get back.
“What happened to Applejack?” You ask in a calm demeanor though everyone can hear the anger you’re masking.
“I told ya, I can’t tell you.”
“Why the fuck not!?” You scream, you had been asking him since he showed up, and kept getting the same response.
“Please Anon; don’t put me on the spot. You will find out real soon, just not from me.”
You take your seat and slump against the wall as Apple Bloom looks across to you wanting to speak but Big Mac discourages her. He knows its best to leave you alone for now.
As the train pulls up to the dusty and barren town known as Appleloosa, it comes to a rough stop as the doors open. For the slightest moment you don’t get up, as though staying down would somehow make everything better, and Applejack would be fine. You know that’s not how things work though and you get up.
“Where is she?” You ask
“Follow me.” He says while heading off into town
Passing the plain and uncharismatic buildings one in particular stood out, it was a large wooden structure with a giant red cross on the front, and in black letters “Appleloosa Hospital” Braeburn enters while the rest of you follow, a young mare with a nurse hat is working the front counter.
“Can I help you?” She asks
“Yes, we’re here to see Applejack room 204”
She shuffles through some of the papers at the desk and finds one.
“Ah here it is, it looks like she is undergoing evaluation, and she should be ready in about 30 minutes. You’re all welcome to wait in the lobby; the doctor will see you when she is ready.” She smiles
“Thank ya kindly ma’am.” He tips his hat and heads towards the bench while the rest of you sit next to him. You don’t see any point in asking him again, so you remain as calm as possible and wait for the doctor. You sigh as 30 minutes come and go, and by the time the hour mark is reached, you’re considering forcing yourself in.
“Mr. Apple?” A feminine voice asks as you look up and see a mare speaking with Braeburn.
“No I’m just her cousin, he is Mr. Apple.” He motions in your direction as the mare walks over to you.
“Mr. Apple?” She asks again as you nod in acknowledgment.
“I’m Dr. Willow; I have some unfortunate news for you and your family.”
“Can I see my wife?” You ask
“Yes of course, but I think it best that I inform you of the situation first. Follow me to my office please.”
Her office was pretty plain except for a few knickknacks here and there on her table; you sit across from her as she takes a drink of water.
“Can you please tell me what happened to her?” You ask in a subdued voice as she gathers her thoughts.
“Yes I’m sorry, this won’t be easy to hear but, there was an accident.”
“A runaway cart was barreling down the street, into the path of a mother and her foal.” Said Braeburn who was informing granny Smith and Big Mac on what happened. “Ol Applejack got in front of it and bucked, she broke through a good chunk of it, but the rest lodged into her legs.”
“I’m so sorry Mr. Apple; we did all we could for her.” She waits before continuing “But she won’t be able to walk on her own anymore.”
You sit in awe of what you just heard; it’s almost too much to take in, but you have to be strong, for Applejack and everyone else.
“Take me to her, please.”
Entering the room, you look around before you focus on the bed that Applejack is sleeping in. Without hesitation you walk over and take a seat next to her. You can see an IV hooked up to her, and she looks so peaceful asleep as though nothing is wrong with her. Looking further down her body however, the blanket flattens in one area where her leg should be. You hear the door open again.
“Anon.” Big Mac says “I think it would be best if I spoke to her first. Braeburn told me about what happened, and I think she needs to see her brother when she wakes up.” You turn and stare at him angrily “Now before you start hollering, just please hear me out. You and AJ are close, aint no two ways about it, but I know her better than you ever will. This time it would be best if you sat this one out, at least fer now.” You breathe in deep and kiss her on her cheek before walking up to Big Mac.
“I want to talk to Applejack.”
“You will, just let me talk to her first.” With a nod you head out to meet with Braeburn.
“Braeburn!” You shout
“Sir, please keep it down.” A mare asks of you, before you can explode at her, Braeburn calls you.
“C’mon Anon, lets head outside before you get us all kicked out. I know a place nearby with some good chow; maybe a meal will put us in better spirits.” He sighs
Braeburn takes you to some restaurant a few blocks away from the hospital, the outside is nothing spectacular but the inside is actually rather cozy. A mare seats you at a booth and takes your orders. Braeburn asked for a couple of drinks on top of the meals you both ordered, the mare took them down and went about her business. For a time, neither of you say much to one another.
“When did this happen?” You ask, breaking the silence
“Bout 3 days ago, as soon as I knew she was gonna make it, I headed straight fer ya’ll.”
“Why didn’t you want to tell me, but told Big Mac?”
“I didn’t want to be the one who breaks it to ya, it wasn’t right to leave ya in the dark like that, but I thought it best fer the doctor to tell ya.”
The mare returns with the food and drinks you all had ordered and sets them on the table, you start to eat but Braeburn grabs a glass of the drink he ordered.
“It’s a real shame that the drink I wanted to have with you turned out to be under such bad circumstances, but I hope that things will only get better from here on out. So how about a toast for brighter days to come?” He asks as you hold up a glass as well.
“I’ll drink to that.” You reply
After the meal and a few drinks, you and Braeburn head back to the hospital. Big Mac is waiting for you at the lobby when you enter. He looks like he’s been crying, but he shows no sign of it from his voice.
“Anon, mah sister is ready to see you now.” He says as you swallow what fear you have.
You stand in front of the door for a moment, gathering your thoughts and thinking about what to talk to her about. Seeing no need to stall any longer, you open the door and walk in. Almost immediately you make eye contact with Applejack, her big green eyes that were so full of life, now have a dulled and melancholy look about them. Her blonde mane now loose and unkempt, a stark contrast to her usual ponytail, and the hospital gown, a plain drab color, finishes the sad display before you. For the longest time neither of you say anything, you just stand there looking at her while she does the same. You had it all planned out, you knew just what you were going to say. Now that the moment of truth is here, you can’t think of a single thing to tell her.
Applejack looks down avoiding your gaze, “Anon…could you help me to the bathroom? Ah couldn’t bring myself to ask anyp0nyelse.”
Without hesitation you answer “Sure.”
Helping her out of bed, you see her legs, one is a bandaged stump, and the other though intact is malformed from the surgery, you know she can’t use it as well anymore from what the doctor told you. Applejack notices you looking and uses her gown to cover them, you try picking her up but she starts fidgeting the moment you get your arms around her.
“Dang it I’m not helpless! I just need help getting into that thing.” You look at the corner and see a wheelchair of sorts. You bring it over and help her get into it, using her front legs; she crawls over into the bathroom and though it takes her a few minutes to angle it, she closes the door. You stand there for a minute waiting; (They must’ve taught her some technique of using the bathroom on her own.) you think.
“Anon, can you come in?” Applejacks voice says softly from behind the door. Entering you see Applejack in front of the toilet, still in her chair.
“I…I need yer help..gettin on.” Her voice breaking, wrapping your arms around her torso, you pick her up and turn her onto the seat. She gets oriented for a minute before giving you the go that she is all right. You debate if you should wait here or outside, Applejack almost psychically answers that for you. “Can ya jus wait here till I’m finished? I’m gonna need help getting back in mah chair.”
You turn around and look at other things, letting her do her business in what little privacy you can give, after a few minutes you can tell she finished but she just sat there. Maybe she was thinking about what to do next, or maybe she didn’t want to say what needed to be said.
“Anon…can you..”
“Sure.”
Once it was all over and done with, you take Applejack back to bed. She scoots herself into a more comfortable position before she looks up at you, her green eyes look nothing like the dull ones you saw earlier. They’re fully aware and actually happy to see you, without a word you begin kissing her. Placing a hand behind her head and back, you draw her in and caress her. Though it surprises her and she fights it for a minute, she’s starting to be more receptive now. You start to work a hand on her flank, and without realizing it, you touch her leg. She jolts and pushes you away.
”Dang it Anon!”
“What?”
“Just forget.” She turns on her side away from you “Let me be for a moment, I’m not really in the mood fer talking or much else.”
Once outside the room, you think about what had set her off. She was doing just fine until…
“Oh god.” You groan, “That was so stupid.”
“Mr. Apple, I need to talk with you.” Says Dr. Willow as she motions you over to her office. Once inside she fixes some papers and clears her table.
“So what did you want to talk about?” You ask
“Applejack is going to be released by the end of the day, so before you take her home, I need to tell you what to expect when she gets there.”
“All right.”
“Now she won’t be able to do most things by herself, showers, using the bathroom and even getting dressed will require assistance. This is going to take lots of patience and understanding from the both of you. Its also important that she work her front legs as often as possible, and we can show you some exercises for her back leg, with practice she can gain some freedom, but..”
“I know, it’s not going to be easy right?”
“Mr. Apple, she is going to need all the support she can get, coming to terms with her new limitations won’t be easy.” Silence fills the room as she waits for a reply “Well that’s about all I have left to say, I will prescribe some medicine for pain, aside from that she is on her own.”
“She won’t be on her own, I’ll be there.”
As the door opens, everyone enters the house with Applejack and you being last. The train ride back home was spent in relatively good spirits; Applejack was catching up with Apple Bloom over what she had missed. Aside from a quite spell or two, things seemed pretty normal. Applejack trotted over to her room but stopped in front of the stairs. Not sure how to handle it, you walk over, pick her up, and carry her upstairs. She doesn’t say a word of protest, but she rests herself on your chest and begins to shiver a little. Once inside her room, you lay her on the bed and head out to retrieve her chair. As soon as you leave the room however, you hear Applejack begin to sob.
In the kitchen, you, Big Mac, and Apple Bloom are sitting down finishing some leftovers from the fridge. Nobody has gone upstairs yet to check on her, it was decided best that you let her have time alone.
“I haven’t heard anything from Applejack in awhile; maybe I should go check on her.” Apple Bloom has been the most worried about her sister, she rarely left her side since the hospital.
“Best let AJ be, she is tuckered out from everything that has happened, and needs her rest.” Big Mac replied, after that however, there was a knock at the door. Curious to see who it may be, you go to answer. Before you is Twilight and the gang, they look nervous. It’s no surprise, you left without saying a word and they probably were worried sick the whole time.
“What happened to Applejack?” Twilight asks.
“Come inside, I have a lot to talk to you about.”
They didn’t take the news well, you saw every emotion possible on those young mares faces. They all went up to talk to Applejack; she didn’t seem to mind and enjoyed having all her friends around. They talked, laughed, and cried over the hours they spent with her, by nightfall everyone had gone except for Rainbow Dash. Those two had a deeper understanding of each other and she stayed by her side until she fell asleep. Rainbow makes her way downstairs and sees you on the couch.
“What are you doing down here?”
“Oh, well I just though I should sleep here, she needs her rest and all.”
“No she doesn’t.” She said rather angrily “She needs you the most right now, how stupid are you? Leaving her alone to think about how she will never walk again, how is that a good idea? She needs you Anon, even if she says she doesn’t. I know AJ can be stubborn to the point of infuriation, but nop0ny is an island Anon.” She floats her way to the door and leaves, thinking about what she said; you head upstairs and enter her room. You see Applejack in her bed; you strip down some before lying next to her. The commotion stirs her up, she turns a bit to face you,
“Anon?” She says half asleep
“I’m here sweetheart.”
She turns her body to face you, she scoots herself to be as close as possible but you pull her up and place her on top of you. It takes some moving around but you work the blanket over the both of you. You can feel her warmth begin to transfer onto your body; you run both hands down her sides but stop short of her flank. She starts breathing heavily as she draws her face closer to yours.
She waits there for a moment before looking away “I can’t.” She whispers “I can’t do this.” She says as she dismounts from you and comes to rest on your side facing away, you put a hand on her and start rubbing her belly. She groans in a displeased manner.
“What’s the matter?”
“It’s nothin.”
“Applejack, it’s obvious something is bothering you, and I won’t know what it is unless you tell me.”
“I don’t want to talk about it.”
You sigh, “Applejack, tell me.”
“I said its nothing.”
“If it’s nothing then there is no reason why…”
“I said I don’t want to talk about it Anon!” She yells, “Just…let me sleep.”
She curls up without saying another word and cries softly, not wanting to cause anymore damage; you give up and try to sleep.
The morning came pretty fast, but you still don’t feel rested. Applejack woke you up a couple of times in the middle of the night to use the bathroom; it’s strange when you think that this is the ways things are going to be now. Waking up, you turn and see Applejack looking at you already,
“Morning.”
“Mornin.”
You get out of bed and take her downstairs, breakfast is already set and everyone is waiting for you. After setting her in her wheelchair, the both of you head over to the table
“Mornin Anon, Mornin Applejack.” Apple Bloom greets as the two of you take your seats.
Without waiting for her to ask, you start filling a plate with all the things she likes that are out of reach, you place it in front of her, and begin to serve yourself.
“Thanks.” She said quietly before eating.
For a moment, nobody says anything. Big Mac looks at you as though wanting to talk, but never goes through with it.
“We need to start your physical therapy today; the doctor said its best to start in the evenings when it’s cool.” Applejack looks displeased that you brought it up.
“I know.” She says, “How did the meetings go with the other towns?”
“Pretty good, they decided to go with us again next year so no problems there; we did miss out on one meeting because…” You stop because it was of her accident, and you don’t want to bring it up if you don’t need to.
“Well ya can meet with them tomorrow and see if they will still have us, and as fer the ones that stayed with us, send them a nice basket of goodies from Pinkies. Ya might want to bring one over to the ones we missed, and apologize fer leavin em hangin.” She sips her coffee and remains quite for a moment, “Big Mac, when ya finish with breakfast go place the order with Pinkie Pie, and Anon, go into town and post a couple of job openings fer the farm. We will need the extra help soon.” The both of you agree to what she said and finish up on breakfast.
After the dishes are washed and put away, you and Big Mac both head out to do your own errands. After the both of you get some distance from the house Big Mac steps in front of you.
“Now I’m not the prying type, but I want ya ta tell me what happened last night. I heard AJ scream at ya, and I know mah sister, she aint the type for screamin less she had a good reason.” You look down,
“I just asked what was bothering her, something was on her mind and it was bothering her. So I pushed the issue, and she yelled at me.” Big Mac hears this and starts thinking
“Well, it aint yer fault, she’s been through enough these past few days. Still, she’ll come around when she’s ready.”
With all this cleared up, the two of you go your separate ways.
In the center of town, it’s not unusual for ponies in need of work or labor, to post papers of what they need. You had Apple Bloom whip you up a flyer for the new positions at the farm, so all you really had to do was just nail it to the board. Almost immediately stallions went to check it out, everyone knows that when they see you there, it’s always for new job openings. At least you won’t have to worry about finding new help.
With that errand done for the day, you head back home. Coming inside, you can hear a commotion already in progress.
“I said I can do this Apple Bloom, it’s all right.”
“Look Anon is here, he can help you.”
“Help? I said I don’t need any help; I can do this on mah own even if it looks silly.” She said just with the slightest hint of irritation. As you walk up to where you see Apple Bloom, you look at the stairs and see Applejack crawling her way to the top.
“What are you doing?” You ask while trying to pick here up, she starts fidgeting out of your grip.
“I didn’t ask fer yer help Anon, I can do this on..”
““My own.”” You say in a taunting manner, “Yes I hear you say that a million times, but it doesn’t matter, I’m gonna help you when I can.” You conclude before picking her up, she instinctively bucks you with her hind leg, but hits you with the stump square in the stomach. Though a hoof is no longer there, it takes the wind out and you fall on top of her. Applejack stifles a scream and grimaces in pain; she curls up on the stairs and begins to cry.
“Ya jus couldn’t leave well enough alone.” She sobs as more pain surges through her body, Apple Bloom walks up beside her sister and nuzzles her, “I’m ok Apple Bloom, I just hurt myself a little is all.”
You pick yourself up and scoop Applejack off the stairs, she’s giving you the meanest look you’ve ever seen and does not say a word as you take her to the room, and set her on the bed. She bites down on your hand as you pull away; the sudden pain was enough to startle you.
“Don’t you eber do dat again.” She muffled though your hand before she let go, you inspect your hand and see imprints of her teeth in it. Not knowing what to do, you head out into the hallway and stand there. Looking downstairs, you see Big Mac just got back home and Apple Bloom talking to him. He looks straight up at you with an angry expression before he goes upstairs and into Applejacks room without saying a word to you. You feel a warm sensation run down your face as you put a hand on your cheek; you already know what it is.
After that fiasco with the stairs, you rested on the couch all day not moving a muscle. Every so often you would look at the hand she bit and remember it all over again, Big Mac took it upon himself to move her chair upstairs, he was probably the only pony who could’ve done it without hurting himself. Hearing a familiar thudding coming downstairs, you see Big Mac come across the couch.
“Mah sister needs to take a bath, now fer obvious reasons we can’t do it, would ya mind doing it?”
You think for a moment “Yeah, I can do it.”
“Ok, now you better not…”
“Save it Big Mac.” You snap, “Just fucking save it.”
Entering her room, you see her messing with a shelf that she quickly shuts when she’s aware you came in. Not wanting to make this anymore awkward, you cut right to the chase.
“You ready?” You ask
“Just needed a couple of towels.” She meekly replies
Leaving the water running, you place her hat away so it won’t get wet and pick her up from the chair. You check that the water is warm before placing her in the shower, grabbing a bottle of shampoo; you start on lathering her coat. She sees the hand she bit you on and looks away, she says nothing but begins to tremble and faintly cry.
“I’m so sorry.” She says “I was just so angry, I know that don’t make it right, but…but I’m sorry.” She sobs
You hold her from behind and rub her reassuringly doing your best to mask your own tears. It takes a few minutes but she calms down, by then, both of you are ready to leave the shower. Despite her apology, and the fact that you accepted it, it did little for the oppressive and thick atmosphere. Drying her off, she said little aside from a nod or two when you asked her a question. Carrying her into the chair, she shakes her head and looks at the bed, guess she’s ready to call it a night. Placing her gently on the bed, you take off your cloths and crawl in next to her; she continues to avoid looking at you and she falls asleep several minutes later. Following her lead, you do the same.
Opening your eyes, you look over at Applejack who is sound asleep. You want to leave her sleeping, but you decide not to risk her needing something and wake her up.
“Hey AJ.” You softly say as you nudge her awake, she groans a bit before looking at you.
“What is it Anon?”
“I’m getting ready to go to that other town for the meeting; did you want me to bring you downstairs or anything before I go?”
“No, I’m fine up here.” She turns and goes back to bed.
Downstairs you notice that nobody else is up, at least it saves you the trouble of having to explain anything to them.
Going all the way to the other town was a bust, they decided to go with a competitor rather than wait. You couldn’t blame them for doing that, but it still pisses you off that you went over there for nothing. Heading back home, you see Twilight’s house and decide to go in. Spike is cleaning up and organizing some books when he notices you.
“Hey Anon, what you brings you here?”
“I need to talk with Twilight, is she here?”
“I’m here, what’s up?” She asks from behind a counter
“Don’t you guys have prosthetic legs here?”
“Prosthetic legs?” She asks curiously “What’re those?” You give a sigh hearing this.
You knew it was a long shot, but you still had to ask.
“Where I come from, we have these fake body parts that we use to replace lost ones like with Applejack. I thought you guys might know something about them.”
Twilight floats papers and a quill to a table and starts doodling notes.
“That’s a fascinating concept, I don’t know why we never thought of this before, and can you imagine the possibilities?” She excitingly asks “I’m gonna need to research pony anatomy first and see if one of those prosthetics can be made to mimic a lost limb.. I think with enough time I can make something for her, it won’t make her 100% but she might be able to walk on her own at least.” Hearing her say this brings joy and you give her a hug.
“Twilight, if there is anything I can do to help just give the word.”
She hugs you back “Just leave it to me, right now you focus on helping Applejack.”
Entering your house, you feel like telling Applejack about what Twilight had told you, but you think it would be best not to get her hopes up. If Twilight can’t come up with something she would be crushed. Apple Bloom runs into you while you’re heading upstairs.
“Did the meeting go well?” She asked
You shake your head “No, they decided to go with another company.”
“Well Applejack is out in the backyard lookin at the orchards if ya want to tell her.”
“Thanks Apple Bloom.”
Heading into the kitchen you open the fridge and grab pitcher of lemonade, you pour a glass for the two of you and head outside. Looking around you see Applejack resting under the shade of a tree looking out at the fields. Walking up to her, she looks over at you until you sit next to her and hand her one of the lemonades you brought.
“Thanks, I was gettin thirsty.” She says as she takes a sip
“We lost the contract of that other town.”
“It’s all right; we still got more than enough to last us.” Applejack lets out a sigh, you decide not to ask her what’s wrong and trust in what Big Mac told you.
“I’m gettin kind of hungry, do you feel like eatin?” She asks
“Yeah, why don’t we go eat out today?” You suggest while getting up and placing her in her chair.
“That might be nice.”
The both of you head inside and make for the front door, on the way over you see Apple Bloom on the couch.
“Apple Bloom, Me and Anon are headin out to eat, ya want tah come along?”
“I would love to, but Silver and I were going out today.” She replied
“Well why don’t cha tag along with us fer lunch before y’all head out? I would really like tah meet this little stallion that has yer eye.” Apple Bloom considers this and nods in agreement.
“Sure, we can have a double date!” She exclaims as Big Mac enters the living room and upon hearing this retreats back into the kitchen.
With all this decided, the three of you set out into town. Silver Straw did not live very far so it was easy enough to go over and inform him about the sudden lunch arrangements. He was fine with it and after a few minutes of waiting he was ready to go, you and Applejack decided to let Apple Bloom and Silver Straw decide on where to eat. It didn’t really matter to the two of you, and they seemed to have fun talking about it as the two of you watched. Eventually they decided on a nice café that just opened up, getting in and finding a seat was easy enough, and a mare took everyone’s order pretty quickly.
“So how did you two kids meet anyway?” Asked Applejack.
“Well we’ve know each other for a while now, you know we go to the same school and all. We just got to talkin, and eventually he asked me to be his special somep0ny on Hearts and Hooves Day.”
“Aww that’s sweet.”
Things get quite for a moment as everyone either drinks or looks around the restaurant.
“So what do you two have planned for today?” You ask trying to liven things up.
“We were thinking about catching a play and just doing whatever catches our eye.” Replied Silver
The mare from earlier comes with the food you all ordered and sets them on the table.
Applejacks stomach growls loudly, “Oh thank Celestia, I’m starvin!” Applejack exclaims as she starts on her sandwich.
“Haha.” You laugh until your own stomach growls; you take that as a sign to start eating.
“So what do you do fer fun there Silver?” Applejack smacks through a mouth of food
“Well I like watching plays and I do ballet.” He said while Applejack looks confused
“That’s….nice.”
“I’m joking.” Silver said laughing “I mostly just play a few sports or talk with friends.”
Applejack lets out a laugh of relief “Oh he’s a keeper all right.” She says while looking at Apple Bloom
Regardless of how close or fun a group of people are to be with, when everyone is sitting at a table with food. There comes a time when everyone decides to focus on eating, and not socializing. It’s not so much that they don’t enjoy each others company or that things got awkward, it’s just a nice little break where everyone agrees to do nothing, without having to agree on it.
Still conversation always ensues after awhile, “So, when ya planning on marrying mah sister?” Applejack smiles at Silver Straw
“Applejack!”
“I’m just foolin with him, ya aint got to get so worked up over it.” Embarrassed, Apple Bloom nudges Silver Straw up from his seat “Come on Silver, it’s about time we head out, we don’t want to be late fer the play.” Apple Bloom pouts
Silver smiles and nods at Applejack,
“It was a real pleasure meeting you Applejack, hope to do this again later and its nice seeing you again Anon.” You give a nod as he and Apple Bloom leave the restaurant
“I’m really starting to like that Silver guy.” You say at Applejack who is looking at the two leave into town.
“…….”
She stares blankly into the crowd as you get up and wave over the mare and ask for the check.
“Well we should probably get going.”
“……”
Walking back home, Applejack hardly said a word. Despite knowing her for so long, you can never really guess what that mare is thinking. Coming inside the farm grounds, you see Big Mac with some stallions you don’t recognize. He sees the two of you and heads over with them.
“Applejack, they’re lookin fer work. Wanted to know if were still hiring.”
Applejack immediately perks back up as though nothing is wrong.
“Well if its work yer looking for, ya came to the right place. We haven’t started any of the real work yet, but Big Mac here will get ya up tah speed until then. Any of you interested can show up bright and early tomorrow.” She concludes before heading back to the house. Once inside, you help her upstairs, she doesn’t fight you like she normally does but you can tell she doesn’t like it.
“Can you set me in bed?” She asks out of the blue
“Sure.” You reply, after you place her in bed you look around for a towel to shower with but don’t see any. You check the drawers and upon opening one of them you see Applejacks wedding dress, a smirk appears as you close the drawer and turn to see Applejack looking at you on the bed.
“What’s wrong?” Her puzzled look is cute
“Hey I gotta run some errands in town, do you mind waiting here till I get back?”
“Sure I was gonna nap anyway.” She turns on her side and places her hat on a nearby table. Grabbing some bits you had stashed under the bed, you head out the room and downstairs.
Seeing Applejack so down has you wanting to cheer her up, that old wedding dress reminded you of a time before work consumed your life. Its time you did something romantic for Applejack, and you know just the thing, first you need some alcohol.
Entering the shop, you hear one of those tacky yet familiar chimes from a bell. It catches the store-mare’s attention as she rounds a corner to see who came in.
“Oh hello,…Anon right? What brings you here?” Asked the mare
“Just here to pick up something to drink.”
“Anything in mind?” She asks as you scan the shelves
“I’m looking for a certain kind of wine.” You say while crouching to get a better look of what they have in stock.
“Do you know the name or can you give me some kind of description?”
You explain to her about the wine that Braeburn had given you all that time ago, describing the color of the bottle and sticker was all you really had. You didn’t remember the name and it was impossible to ask Braeburn right now, she looks deep in thought trying to piece something out of your poor description.
“I think you might be talking about this wine.” She trots over to an area a few feet away and grabs a bottle from a fancy display; you take it from her and inspect it. To your surprise, it looks just like you had remembered.
“This is it!” You smile, looking at the price however, it quickly faded away. “200 bits, are you serious?! Why does it cost so much?!” You shout in disbelief
“Sir this is a very rare wine.”
Looking at the bottle, you know you don’t have enough to afford it right now. Placing it back on the display you look around for a cheaper alternative. After looking around and selecting a more modest wine, you take it to the front counter and hand it to the mare. She takes it into her mouth and ducks under the table, after a little commotion she returns with a nice looking container with the wine wrapped in fancy wrapping.
“Please accept these gifts free of charge. Applejack helped out my mother and she is living very comfortably now, so this is the least I can do. Allow it to chill in ice before serving for the best taste.” She smiles
“Thank you.” You say as you pick up the items and head out.
Now that you have a nice wine, you need a nice food to accompany it. You look over at Sugar Cube Corner, with a smile you head inside.
“Pinkie, you here?”
“Hello deary, what brings you here?” Ms Cake replies from behind the counter
“Oh I was looking for Pinkie Pie.”
“She’s upstairs right now; do you want me to go get her?”
“That would be great.”
As she heads upstairs, you can’t help but notice her belly. Looks like Mr. Cake has been busy. A few minutes later Pinkie comes running downstairs and hugs you.
“How’s Applejack?”
“She’s been good, a little down but she’s getting through.”
An awkward silence follows and you don’t really feel like dragging this on.
“Listen I’m….planning a romantic dinner tonight. Do you have anything she would like?”
Pinkie gives you a sad smile as she wipes a tear from her eye; trotting over behind a counter she begins to box assorted treats.
“These will do nicely, especially when shared with somep0ny you love.”
“Thanks Pinkie.” You say while giving her a hug, you take the box and head for the door.
“Anon, I’m happy that you two found each other.”
Hearing this you stop and turn to face her.
“I am too.”
Well you got your food and drink, now all you need to do is prepare. You enter the house as stealthily as possible; making sure your presence is known to no one.
“Howdy Anon.” Apple Bloom says, you turn around not even bothering to hide what you’re holding. She looks at them and smiles up at you.
“She’s still asleep in case you’re wondering.” She heads to her room, leaving you to take care of your business. Not wanting to waste anymore time, you head into your old room to prepare the bath.
Gentle nudging rouses Applejack from her sleep; she awakes to the caring smile of her husband.
“Somethin wrong dear?” She softly asks
“Are you ready for your bath?”
Applejack lets out a long yawn and rests her head back on the bed.
“I’d rather sleep.” She smiles closing her eyes; you climb over her and playfully kiss her several times until she gets up.
“Gosh yer affectionate today.” She drowsily says
“Let’s take a bath, wake you up some.” You smile as you pick her up; she looks confused when you head out into the hallway.
“Where are..”
“Shhh, just watch.”
Applejack’s expression is hard to read as you take her downstairs into your old room, it’s been a longtime since either of you really came down here, since you moved on up to Applejack’s room.
“Close your eyes.” You say softly as Applejack looks hesitant but goes with it anyway, after some commotion and hearing a door open things get quite. “Ok open em.”
Applejack opens her eyes and takes in her surroundings; a dim candlelit room with a tub is the first thing to catch her attention.
She laughs in disbelief, “What’s all this for?”
You take off her hat placing it on the side while you gently submerge her into the water. Applejack lets out a little sigh of relief as the warm almost hot water envelops her; you take off your own clothing before joining her.
“Ahhh, now this is nice, not sure about the candles though.”
Hearing this you chuckle and put your arm around her, drawing her close to you “Can’t a guy do something romantic for a girl?”
“Romantic?” She asks quietly
You pull out the wine from its ice encased prison and try to open it. A few unsuccessful attempts later you free up your other hand and stand up, tugging and inching the cork out little by little until it finally gives.
It makes an audible pop noise as it flies off into a dark corner of the room, the commotion sends wine gushing out and some lands in the bathwater before you move it out and let it drain on the floor. After it dies down, you’re left with a little under half. Embarrassed, you turn around and notice Applejack wearing a look of neither joy nor anger. Reaching over to the two glasses you had on standby, you make sure to give Applejack the bigger serving as you sit next to her. She sips on her wine and continues looking down at something that isn’t there. Going back to how you were, you place an arm around her and draw her close again. You begin to slowly kiss her from the neck up, and when you finally reach her mouth, she turns away.
“Why are you doin this?” She asks softly
“I should be asking you that.”
She turns around to face you revealing her tear-filled eyes and angry expression.
“Because there is nothin attractive about me no more!” Tears begin to roll down her face as she throws the glass at a random direction.
“That’s not true.” You say as you place your glass on the side and wipe away some of her tears before she pulls away “You’re still Applejack, the mare I fell in love with and the most beautiful pony I’ve ever seen.”
Looking down she sniffles for a few before she wipes away her own tears.
“How can you still say that about a pony that cant even clean up after herself? I got to have you do it fer me like…like I’m so damn foal.” She stops for a moment “You have to bathe me, wipe me, dress me, and take me almost everywhere. I’m useless now to you and everyp0ny, what exactly about THAT is attractive?” She finishes bitterly as she looks up at you wanting an answer.
“Nothing.” You say coldly, “There is nothing attractive about any of that, but it’s none of those things that I’m attracted to. I’m attracted to you, I’ve always been, why should that change now that I have to take more care of you? Who cares if I wipe your ass? Who cares if I have to dress you? Who fucking cares if I take you everywhere? And you’re not useless; you’re my wife and my best friend, you have a family that loves you, I love you!” Applejack starts crying again as you draw her into a hug; she buries herself into your chest and sobs uncontrollably. For the longest time both of you cry, letting out all that pent up frustration and uncertainty was liberating.
Its hard to tell how long you two were there, the wine is warm and flat, the sweets untouched, and the bath water has long since lost its luster. Still neither of you were ready to leave just yet, both you and Applejack are looking up at the ceiling, she is resting herself on your chest while you have an arm around her.
“This is really gonna be mah life now aint it?” Applejack says breaking the long silence
“It’s gonna be our life.”
Though she says nothing, she lets out a happy almost satisfied sigh and presses herself closer. You pick her up and place her facing you; she nuzzles you and gives you a kiss while she places her hooves on your shoulders. She looks startled for a moment before looking down at the thing that poked her.
“Ah think I’m ready to go upstairs now sugar cube, looks like you are too.” She smiles
“It has a mind of its own.” You laugh as you pick her up; you dry off as best you can before heading upstairs with her. It looks like everyone is asleep.
Before opening the door to the bedroom, you stop and face Applejack “It’s my turn to take care of you now.” You say while holding her in your arms.
Applejack looks down and blushes a little “I think I can get used to that.”
With that you head inside, things won’t be easy, maybe Twilight will have some prosthetics, maybe she wont, in the end it doesn’t matter. Better or worse, you’re here for Applejack, and you wouldn’t trade that for the world.
END