After her brisk cold shower, Applejack headed towards their little town in her beat-up 2002 Ford F150. It wasn’t old enough to fail her just yet, but you could tell it was getting there. It had enough room to seat 5, maybe even 6-7 if they all squeezed in, and that was enough for her. Carefully, she pulled into the grocery store Pinkie and Rainbow Dash were supposed to meet her in. She parked in a spot closest to the entrance, right next to the car corral.

Applejack then took a glance at her phone, seeing a new message come in.

Pinkie Pie
We just saw you pull in! We’re already inside :D

With a sigh, the cowgirl shut off her car and got out of the car. ‘They coulda waited until I was here to start shopping.’ She walked inside to be met with a bone-crushing hug from Pinkie, involuntarily letting out all the air in her lungs.

“OOHH I MISSED YOU! Feels like it’s been so long since the last time we hung out!!” Pinkie exclaimed as she let her go after a minute.

Applejack took a moment to regain her breath, “Uh, yeah. I’ve just been busy with all the farm work. Ya know with granny gettin’ older and such, I’m taking more responsibilities offa her plate.” She rested her hands on her hips and shifted all the weight on her left foot, she was pretty tuckered out. “As well as being in charge of all of this shit, too.”

“Silly. That’s why I’M here! To help you plan the most perfect welcome back party ever!” Pinkie bounced excitedly. “It’ll be the first time we all get together again in a while! I’m so nervexcited!!!!!”

RD cleared her throat, annoyed that she was getting ignored. “I wonder who the welcome back party is for.” She said, nonchalantly. She opened her arms for a hug, but Applejack just looked at her (or through her) and nodded her head. “Reina.” She tipped her hat and started walking towards the snack aisle.

“Hey- Hey! Applejack, are you messing with me??? You haven’t seen me since, like, what? Thanksgiving two years ago?!” Rainbow complained, trying to catch up with AJ, which wasn’t hard for someone with her speed. Pinkie, however, got left in the dust as she caught up.

“Yeah, I was hopin’ that’d be the last time I saw you. But here we are.” Applejack browsed the chip section, picking out Applebloom’s favorite spicy Doritos. “I don’t know how that girl can handle eatin’ this.”

Rainbow sighed, hugging herself to be overdramatic. “Yup. Thanks for the warm welcome, Aubrey.”

“It’s the warmest welcome you’re gonna get from me, Reina. I’m tired and I’m going through all this trouble for your girlfriend, not you.” Applejack picked out a box of small variety bags of chips.

“What are those small ones for? I thought we were making food for the party? Not that I’m complaining! The more the merrier!” Pinkie asked, taking some chip bags for herself.

“It’s for the girls. They’re having a sleepover since we’re all gonna be at the party all night, anyway. It don’t bother me much. Just means they’ll be safe at our house rather than bein’ alone in theirs.” AJ made her way out of the aisle as some people stared at her. It’s not every day you see a 6’5” woman in the middle of the Food Lion. “Now for the meat…” she pondered looking over options.

……

After getting all the shopping done, which included some extra alcoholic drinks, they all headed back towards the farm. ‘They both bought way too much liquor. I had already saved a barrel of hard cider for us, damnit.’ AJ cursed, she was feeling a bit grumpy as the energy from her shower whisked away. She also had to deal with seeing Rainbow Dash’s ratty face more, and it pissed her off.

You could say Applejack had a grudge or two against the chromatic-haired woman. But that’s a story for another day.

When they got to Sweet Apple Acres, AJ started to unload her truck into the barn she decorated. There were fairy lights around the ceiling and stacks of hay all around. This was the old barn they’d use for special occasions since the cattle were moved to the newer one out back. She set down the groceries on the tables she set up before leaving.

“Rainbow, could ya move the haystacks around so people can sit down on ‘em while I get finished up here?” She asked hesitantly. It would be quicker just to do everything alone, but she promised to work on not overworking herself.

“Sure thing. Even though the guest of honor shouldn’t be doing aaannyyyy chores.” RD howled, putting down some of the bags she grabbed on the same spot AJ did before getting to work.

“Don’t you test me, now. Yer on thin ice.” The country gal raised a thick brow at her. Leaving to get more things done and letting Pinkie into the house so they can get started in the kitchen.

…..

“D-Do you think she’ll like it..?” Fluttershy ran a hand through her now fully pink hair.

“Of course, darling! She’ll love it!” Rarity said as she put on her false eyelashes. “Having it completely pink suits you. It compliments your skin tone well. You look like you’re glowing!” She smiled.

Fluttershy smiled, hiding her face behind the cover of said hair. “Oh, thank you. I thought it was a little too much..” She always had some type of pink in her light brown hair, but she had decided to make a big change in her life and do an all-over color this time. It was a start to a new everyday look.

“Is this why you two insisted on not seeing each other until tonight? Reminds me of a bride and groom avoiding each other on their wedding day.” Rarity batted her eyelashes at the handheld mirror, closing it and placing it in her purse. They had just almost finished getting ready, and with 40 minutes to spare! Maybe she could add a bit of a gloss to her lips..

“Well, um. I guess so. It is part of it..But I think Rainbow just wanted to be dramatic. Not that I’m upset about it or anything, I think it’s sweet..” Flutters smiled, resting her face in her hands.

“Easy on the face, darling. We just finished your makeup.” Rarity replied while cleaning off the foundation on her beauty marks with a Q-tip. Fluttershy stood up straight, resting her hands on her lap. “Sorry.”

“It’s okay! But the more that I think of it…that sounds so lovely! I wouldn’t have thought of Rainbow Dash as a romantic.” She opened up her special lip gloss tube as she continued the conversation. It was cherry flavored, just in case she needed to leave a lasting impression on a certain someone.

“Oh, yes. She is..she may have that funny attitude, but she can be really cute when we’re alone..Gosh, I haven’t seen her since Christmas, I’m kind of nervous.” The pink-haired girl fidgeted with her nails, “Since we never really got the time to be alone for more than a few days, I’m scared it’s going to be awkward…”

“Hey..I think you two will work things out. It’ll just be a bit of an adjustment from long-distance to short. It’s not like you haven’t known each other for years.” Rarity replied as soon as she finished applying her lip gloss, popping it into her purse and closing it. “You’ll be just fine, darling.” She stood, approaching Fluttershy and gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. She smiled softly, for further reassurance, “Now, shall we go?” Rarity offered a hand.
The timid girl nodded, smiling back as she took said hand to stand up.

….

News of a hoedown at Sweet Apple Acres had traveled throughout Canterlot. People from acquaintances to old classmates had come, bringing their friends and their friend’s friends.

Applejack whistled, “I didn’t expect this many people..” she took a sip of the cider she was holding. The cowgirl stationed herself in a corner where she could see everyone, making her easy to spot as well.

“That just goes to show how awesome I really am! Everyone missed me! Maybe even secretly want me too.” Rainbow snickered, “Not that it matters. What can I say, I’m loyal.” That earned an annoyed look from Applejack.

“You’d better be unless you want to be buried 6ft under.”

“Relax, Aubrey! I’d never do anything to Fluttershy. I could never forgive myself, she’s everything to me.” Rainbow’s features noticeably softened.

“..Hm. We’ll see. This is the only time I’ll say that I don’t want to beat your ass in front of her for that.”

The jock’s face went back to its shit-eating grin, “I’m honored! I’d rather not be put in the hospital for the 10th time.” She reached up to pat AJ’s back playfully.
“Not saying you won’t be for other reasons.” She replied, sipping on her cider once more. Rainbow just chuckled nervously. “I’m..gonna go watch out for Fluttershy. I know how she hates big crowds. Laters!” She waved, jogging away.

That left Applejack on her own, Pinkie was too busy chatting everyone up. Somehow, she was also friends with the entire town. Leave it up to her to know everyone, especially because of being Sugarcube Corner’s primary baker AND decorator. That and going to college classes is insane, Applejack genuinely wonders how she does it.
As much as she herself likes talking to people, she just didn’t feel like a chatterbox that night. Her energy is reserved for her close friends, except for simple greetings and smiles.

Outside, Rarity pulled up in her white Mercedes. They had been late even if they left earlier than usual, thanks to the traffic. “Goodness. One finally finishes early enough to get here on time but we’re still fashionably late!” She whined, unlocking and getting out of the car along with Fluttershy. She had parked in the driveway of the house instead of the barn. It’s where she and the others would usually park. “Certainly seems lively.” Rarity remarked, looking towards the old barn.

“Oh gosh..I didn’t expect there to be so many people. Um. Maybe I should just..” Flutters shrunk into herself, grabbing the door handle.

“Up, up, up- I already locked the door. Come on, darling! You’re here to see your sweetheart, not all those other people. It’ll be like they aren’t even there. Plus, a little birdie told me that there’s some cider!” The fashionista giggled, starting to walk towards the barn. Luckily for all of them, it was far enough for the residents of the house to sleep calmly without hearing the ruckus.

Fluttershy sighed, slouching down and catching up with Rarity. Once they got close to the barn, they noticed the change in music. From the soft twangs of the guitar to hard rhythmic bass. “Ah. So it seems that Rainbowdash took over the music.” Rarity went in first before coming back out and pulling Fluttershy inside with her.

Diamond blue eyes scanned the large crowd, looking for familiar faces. That was when she spotted a brown Stetson atop blonde hair, “Alright, Darling! I found Applejack, though she isn’t hard to find with her height." She muttered, "Let’s go.”

“Eek—!” Fluttershy flinched as Rarity pulled her alongside her once more, but she kept her head down. However, she occasionally looked around for any signs of Rainbowdash. Unknown to her, her girlfriend’s hair was also recently dyed. So looking for her dark brown hair wouldn’t do much of anything.

Rarity could feel her heart jumping out of her chest. She was so nervous to face the object of her affections, a bit scared that another argument would arise. It’d ruin the night for both of them. ‘Remember what Rainbow said. Tonight, we start anew! No talking about how muddy her boots are! Especially since we’re already outside!’ She gave herself a pep-talk. Even if she didn’t completely agree with what she said to herself. The more she could see Applejack, the more her heart ached.
‘Just focus on her beautiful blonde hair and how sometimes it’s a little wavy..Her shining emerald green eyes, and her stylish red button up...WAIT.’ The fashionista’s cheeks flushed, ‘S-She’s wearing the Red Satin Button up I gave her! And her good chaps..AND HER BOOTS ARE CLEAN?! Oh, she’s positively gorgeous..!!’ Rarity swooned, approaching Applejack quickly with Fluttershy in tow. She was so busy staring at her that Applejack greeted them first.

“Howdy, girls!” She smiled, walking a bit closer and tipping her hat at them. “Fluttershy!! Your hair! Ya look great!” AJ side-hugged her best friend, “Finally decided to say fuck-all and just make it all pink, huh?” She chuckled.

“Hehe…Yeah. I’ve always wanted to do it, I was just scared..!” Fluttershy answered, a soft smile reappearing on her lips as she felt some relief from AJ’s familiar touch.

“Well, ya know what they say. Change can be refreshing sometimes.” AJ’s gaze turned to Rarity. “And don’t think I forgot you, Sugarcube. You look..stunnin’! As usual.” Applejack blushed, looking away for a second before meeting Rarity’s eyes again.

“Oh, Darling! You wouldn’t believe how much work I had to do just to put this on!” Rarity twirls, her sundress spinning cutely. The tassels made a thumping sound as they reacted to said spin and landed back on the leather. “Remember this old thing?” She adjusted her jacket, subtly posing.

“From high school! Heh, I can’t believe you still have it. With all the new clothes you keep gettin’.” Applejack smirked teasingly. She crossed her leg over the other and leaned on the pillar right next to her. Rarity huffed and crossed her arms. “I never throw away a garment! Much less one this fabulous. Just so you know, I either upcycle or store my older clothes elsewhere. Just so I can save it for the perfect occasion!” She flipped her hair behind her dramatically, looking up into her favorite green emeralds. This was good, just some playful banter instead of immediate bickering.

“U-Um..Not to interrupt or anything, but, have you seen Rainbow..? Well, of course, you’ve seen her, but um- if you don’t mind telling me where she is..?” Fluttershy spoke up, fidgeting with her fingers.
“Not at all, Sugarcube. I last saw Reina like..an hour ago? Half an hour? I just know she’s messin’ with my music again.” Applejack mumbled the last part, “Go ahead an’ check where the speakers are.”

“Thank you.” She nodded, turning away from her friends and weaving through the crowd as best as she could. She surely wasn’t the tallest one there, like Applejack, but she could comfortably look over the crowd if she tried. The issue was that she was too anxious about looking anyone in the eyes if she tried to. It took her a good 5 minutes to get to her destination. It was only then that she dared to look around the area.

No luck.

Fluttershy whimpered, slouching back down and backing into the wall near the speaker. Why did she even suggest having a party? This was way too much for her, and she was nearing her breaking point. Especially since she couldn’t even find the person it was for. She buried her face in her hands, how stupid was she? Of course, the entire town was gonna want to come here. Rainbow Dash was the town’s crowned jock. Captain of every team she ever joined and she was undefeated! And she was so friendly with everyone. Fluttershy’s eyes welled up with tears. ‘Maybe I should walk home. After seeing how many people love her, maybe she’ll meet someone else who’s good enough for her…’ Sure, they had been in a committed relationship for almost 4 years. But it had been long-distance and Rainbow was secluded to her co-workers and sometimes family. Even if she said she loved her back then, it might’ve been because she kept clinging onto her. Rainbow must have felt bad enough to date her.

“Fluttershy!” A familiar raspy voice called out to her, seemingly out of breath. The timid girl brought down her hands slightly. “Dashie..?” She whispered, before she realized it, Rainbow Dash had run up to her and pulled her into a tight embrace. Slightly picking her up and spinning her around. Fluttershy couldn’t help but break out of her intrusive thoughts, giggling as she held onto her girlfriend’s shoulders.
It wasn’t long after that Rainbow pressed their lips together. Relishing in the warmth of her lover. “God. I missed you so much.” Rainbow whispered between them after parting. That for sure made Fluttershy’s heart jump, and suddenly everything she worried about disappeared.
“I missed you too..! I-I’m sorry I couldn’t find you any faster..” Fluttershy sniffled and felt as Rainbow set her down. It was funny when you realized how much taller Fluttershy still was.

“Hey..! Don’t be sorry! It’s not like I left any noticeable trails behind. And there are a bunch of people here so..” Rainbow chuckled, looking up.. “I was looking for you, too.” She smiled, taking a moment to admire her girlfriend. “Que bella*. I didn’t know you were going to dye your hair, too! It looks amazing, baby.” She reached up to stroke Fluttershy’s cheek. That earned a shy smile from her. “Thanks..You do too! Um.. Can we move somewhere else..? The music’s really loud in my ears..”
Rainbow nodded, “Of course!” The jock grabbed her hand, leading her to a quieter area. A couple of people were lingering. Some on their phone and some just chilling out, drinking from red plastic cups. Rainbow stopped at one of the bundled haystacks and sat them down. She slithered her hand around Fluttershy’s waist, holding her as close as she could.

Fluttershy couldn’t help but smile at this, doing the same. There they sat in a comfortable silence for a while. Normally, It’d be hard to get Rainbow to shut up. But she was as quiet as ever, her face tucked into Fluttershy’s neck. And she didn’t mind that at all. There were some onlookers that looked disappointed and some others that let out some ‘aaawww’s. It was Rainbow Dash that broke the silence 10 minutes later.
“Fluttershy?”

“Hm?”

“I’m..I’m really glad that I could finally leave that place. It really was a lot.” She sighed. Fluttershy could feel her breath tickle her skin. “I liked how fast-paced it was and everything. If I just thought about the training and the program, it was awesome! There were some rough patches during basic training and waking up suuuper early. But it was great! Now for the people there….” Rainbow cringed, “You know I like to talk my shit, but it didn’t really feel like I could be myself enough to do that. It..it made me miss it here a lot. You were my rock through all of it, even if I didn’t say it. I just…wanted to thank you. Especially now since I have the time to!” She pulled away to make eye contact. “Thank you, Flora.” She blushed, it was a little uncomfortable to talk about her feelings like this. But she just had to let it out now. “I love you.”

Fluttershy smiled lovingly, breaking eye contact occasionally but ultimately getting lost in Rainbow’s magenta irises. “Oh, Reina…” she felt butterflies flutter in her stomach. “That means the world to me..I love you, too. I’ll always stay by your side…for whenever you need me.”

“Heh..” Rainbow looked away, the mushy stuff really did make her feel all soft. “Do you want a drink? Pinkie and I got a lot of booze and Applejack let us have a barrel of cider. I haven’t really gotten a chance to get any yet.”

“Sure! I’ll have whatever you’re having, sweetheart.” Flutters squeezed her waist before letting go of it as Rainbow stood up.
“Okay. I’ll be right back, *Mami.” Fluttershy giggled at the pet name as a kiss was left on top of her head before Rainbow sped off.

Author's Note

For context: Both RainbowDash and Fluttershy are Puerto Rican!

*Translation: "How Beautiful."
Mami is used as a pet name sometimes for romantic partners

I'm open to constructive criticism for grammar :)