The Trauma Within

Chapter 1: The Mental Unknowns

The bell chimed at 3:15 PM, prompting a rush of students into the hallway as they retrieved their belongings from their lockers. Fifteen minutes later, as the crowd began to thin, Rarity stepped out of the classroom and glanced back, offering a wave to her teacher. She proceeded a few lockers down, retrieved a key, and opened her locker to collect her red purse before shutting it securely.

As she turned her head slightly to lock the locker, she caught sight of Applejack, the unmistakable aroma of her signature apple perfume wafting through the air. A gentle smile spread across Rarity's face as she draped her red purse over her shoulder.

She walked a few steps before standing next to Applejack. “Hey!” Rarity smiled.

“Hey, Rarity! How were your classes?” she asked while smiling.

“Besides getting ready for the final test before leaving high school, it’s the same that it has been for the last few years darling, well normal as in no problems for the last little while,” she responded.

“Same sugar, kinda wish there was some excitement. It’s been quieter than a stick sitting in empty grass,” she remarked.

Rarity’s heart beat out of its chest as she continued to glance into those wonderful eyes of hers. “Well want to head to the statue to see if the others want to hang out for the weekend?” she asked while rubbing her hands.

“Sure,” she answered.

They walked towards the front door, their boots making a soft tapping sound against the floor before stepping outside to a beautiful spring day in Orting, A light breeze and sunny sky created a serene, picturesque atmosphere, with a landmark in the background adding to the natural beauty as birds chirped among the trees, creating a tranquil, almost idyllic Pacific Northwest scene.

In front of them was the white statue where Twilight Sparkle, Sci-Twi, and Rainbow Dash were talking while Pinkie Pie was sprinting towards them. They both smiled before Fluttershy stepped out. Her dress was a sea of light blue with butterflies dotted equally, bubble gum-colored hair, and pink heel shoes with small bow ties on the top.

“Hey, how were your classes Fluttershy?” Applejack asked.

“They were nice, peaceful like always with maybe a baby bird or two,” she smiled.

“C'mon darlings, let’s see what the others have planned for this weekend,” Rarity chirped before power-walking to the statue.

Fluttershy chuckled a little while Applejack smiled as they both followed her to the statue. Once there all three of them gave hugs to Twilight Sparkle and asked her how stuff was going in Equestria which took about five minutes before Rarity asked.

“Hey, how were your classes, Fluttershy?” Applejack asked.

“They were nice, peaceful like always, with maybe a baby bird or two,” she smiled.

“What are y'all planning for the weekend?” Rarity asked curiously, waiting for the other girls to answer.

Fluttershy asked timidly, yet with a hint of excitement, “Would you like to get our nails done later? If not, I was planning to volunteer at the animal shelter."

With her last assignment complete, Sunset Shimmer emerged from the school in her usual gray hoodie, concealing her expression. She walked slowly while her eyes looked at the ground as her favorite music played on her headphones and she deliberately avoided dwelling on the thoughts that obfuscated her mind.

Fluttershy smiled at the girl, nervously fixing her hair, worried about looking foolish in front of her. To her eyes, time had slowed down as she watched Sunset’s hair fly a bit around the sides of her head. Her heart felt like it was pounding harder than a metal song’s breakdown as the drum rhythm, it focused on the type of beat of each step Sunset took. Suddenly, Fluttershy blinked back into reality.

"Hey, Sunset, do you have any plans this weekend?" asked Twilight Sparkle.

Sunset initially smiled at the suggestion but then started to frown slightly while glancing towards the road before replying. "I'm afraid I have to head back to my apartment and take care of some things, sorry."

“It’s alright. No need to go out if you can’t,” said Twilight.

Brimming with enthusiasm, Rainbow Dash exclaimed, "I'm heading out to play ball and taking my sister with me. She's been practicing for only six months, but she's already nearly beaten me a few times; she is incredibly impressive at how quickly she's learning!"

Applejack exclaimed excitedly, "That sounds great, Dash! I need to focus on getting ready for the harvest. It never ceases to amaze me that this region is one of the best places for apple growing, and late spring through early fall is the prime season, not just for apples but all sorts of apple-flavored goodies!" Applejack bubbled.

Rarity briefly glanced at Applejack, giving a small sigh before turning towards Fluttershy. "I'm free this evening," Rarity said. "We could go to the nail salon or even the spa to relax if you'd like."

Sci-Twi calmly stated, "I must go study for my test, as one can never be too thorough when it comes to knowledge."

Pinkie Pie spoke in her usual cheerful, energetic tone as she explained, "I have to work this weekend, and I also need help with decorations for one or two birthday parties."

"Alright, I suppose that's everyone then," Rainbow Dash announced. "I'm heading out. Does anyone care to join me on the walk to the field?

Chuckling, Twilight Sparkle offered, "I'll join you on the walk to the field. I've been curious to see if your sister can outplay you at your own game."

"Oh, it is on!" said Rainbow Dash. Eager for a challenge, Rainbow Dash eagerly accepted when her friends or others competed against her, especially in sports matches. She had been practicing for years and had won multiple games in the last year, making soccer her favorite
type of competition.

Rarity smiled gently as she said, "Don’t worry, Fluttershy. We're taking my motorcycle.”

Hey, Sunset, since your apartment is close to my house, would you like to join me and Twilight Sparkle on the walk there?" asked Rainbow Dash.

Sunset looked at her before tilting her head down and replying, “No, I am okay. I’m just going to walk slowly on my way home. Thank you though.”

Rainbow Dash spoke softly and tenderly, "Alright, just be careful. See you later."

Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle started slowly walking to the field where her sister would join them to practice. Meanwhile, Sci-Twi slowly walked towards the bus stop to head home.

Fluttershy and Rarity stood close to Sunset Shimmer, their eyes filled with warmth. "Take care, Sunset," Rarity said softly, her voice tinged with emotion as she leaned in to offer a delicate yet affectionate hug.

Fluttershy followed suit, wrapping her arms around Sunset, her cheeks glowing a light pink as her fingertips brushed the soft fabric of Sunset's hoodie. She pulled back slightly, her heart fluttering at the comforting sensation.

As they stepped away, Sunset gave them a grateful smile, her amber eyes shining under the afternoon sun. "I'll see you both soon," she said, her voice calm yet warm. With a final wave,

Fluttershy and Rarity began walking down the block together, the cool breeze carrying with it the faintest scent of flowers. They turned the corner, giving Sunset one last wave before they disappeared, leaving the quiet street behind.

As she watched them disappear behind the tall trees, their shadows fading into the evening light, she slipped her headphones on, drowning the world in the soaring, electrifying screams of guitar solos.

The music filled her senses, carrying her away from the quiet street she now walked along. Fifteen minutes later, the familiar creak of her apartment door greeted her as she entered. She locked it behind her with a quiet click, her footsteps light as she made her way to the kitchen, and grabbed a snack before sitting down at her desk and turning on her computer.

She stared at her arm before closing her eyes with a downward expression. "Why am I such a disappointment?" she spoke before glancing at her arms that stood the testaments of time and damage.

She got up and walked to her bedroom, her hand reaching for the closet knob before opening it. She grabbed a purple T-shirt before laying it on her bed and started taking off the gray hoodie and her yellow T-shirt. Physical scars dominated the landscape of her back as two deep long red cuts stretched to the lower end.

A sea of cuts also dominated her arms, some areas bruised like oceans covered the earth. As she put on the purple T-shirt, An electric current of sharp stabs echoed through her. A visual diary of the inner turmoil in her mind that somehow hid in plain sight. She walked back to her wooden chair, sitting then reaching for the power button before the noise of fans and humming filled part of the room.

While waiting, she looked at her iPhone before going to her gallery, seeing multiple photos of them and her smiling causing a few tears to run down her cheeks. She gently put her phone down before staring at the computer screen hoping to find solace in the routine.

Location: Downtown Orting

As the sun gradually set over the horizon, Rarity and Fluttershy spent the hour engaged in a lively discussion while patiently waiting for their manicures, laughing and talking about interests common among young women. However, Rarity suddenly stopped laughing before she looked down at her nails with a sudden concerned look.

As the sun slowly dipped below the horizon, Rarity and Fluttershy emerged from the building, showcasing their freshly manicured nails. Rarity sported elegant white tips adorned with golden diamonds at the center, while Fluttershy displayed cheerful yellow tips, each nail embellished with unique flowers in orange, blue, and red. Deep in conversion, they talked about a lot of the interests that young women commonly would have.

"Darling, have you heard about the latest dress available in the market? It's blue and adorned with shimmering diamonds," Rarity inquired.

"I haven't heard anything about it. What makes it special?" Fluttershy wondered.

Rarity then took out her phone, showing her screen to Fluttershy. “Look!” She pointed to the letters R and A on the tag, the top right of the dress.

“Is that your dress Rarity? Ooooh, it looks so pretty!” Fluttershy marveled.

“Yes, Since Sunset had helped out. Production and calls haven’t been easier than ever. Did I ever tell you the story about how she helped me get my first outfits out?” she asked.

“Yes, you told me multiple times.” Fluttershy chuckled.

As they came to a stop at the traffic light, Fluttershy glanced up at the intersection of Washington Avenue and Train Street. At the same time, Rarity was engrossed in her phone, scrolling through her gallery to find a beloved picture of herself and Applejack by a tranquil lake. In the background, a stage set the mood, featuring Applejack in a bold red and black patterned jacket, tan shorts, long white socks, and fashionable cowboy boots. Rarity, on the other hand, wore a stunning T-shirt adorned with blue diamonds on a deep purple background, paired with sleek black shorts, black socks, and chic black high heels.

Fluttershy gently tapped her on the shoulder and gestured towards the green light. They made their way across the street before returning to the sidewalk. Rarity glanced at her phone once more, letting out a soft sigh.

“Hey, darling I got a question,” She glanced at her nails while seeming to have a slight frown.

“What’s wrong?” Fluttershy glanced at her.

“You’ve always been such a great support for me. Usually, I’m pretty confident in my decisions, but for some reason, I find myself worried about messing things up. Have you ever experienced something similar?” Rarity wondered.

"What do you mean by that? You're usually great at making decisions. Did something happen to make you doubt yourself?" Fluttershy inquired.
She let out a sigh before revealing a photo of herself with Applejack. "Any idea what has me feeling anxious?" she hinted.

“Well considering you and her are best friends, I can only guess but I don’t know.” She responded, right eyebrow raised.

“Yes, and that worries me.” Rarity sighed again before looking at her phone.

“Rarity, you don’t have to hide anything from me. I’ve been known what is going on between you and Applejack.” she smiled.

“How? I don’t mention anything about what is going on between her and me.” She glanced at Fluttershy, puzzled.

She stopped Fluttershy and pointed to the center of her chest. “I understand your feelings, you very much care for her like any other friend but I can tell that your heart says more but your mind is unsure.” She articulated.

“Well, yeah I do have a bunch of concerns. I remember just two weeks ago that she got nervous in front of a camera and with me being in newspapers about fashion, plus of course, helping to save the world years ago from the dazzlings with y'all. She hates being on camera so what happens if well I don’t know, I ask her then it’s gonna be on the news and everything.” Rarity paused before frowning more.

“Rarity y’all can always just hide it from the public. Even if you're famous for your fashion, it’s not like your other celebrities and tweeting about every single piece of news.” Fluttershy mentioned.

“That’s true but I have seen so many stories of couples getting rejected or ruining friendships because of telling them how they feel, what if things get weird and break us apart.” Rarity shuddered.

If you have feelings for Applejack, it's important to express them or at least create an environment where she feels at ease to do so. Your concerns reflect your genuine care, but it's essential not to let them overwhelm you. Overcoming obstacles can be difficult; for instance, consider how newborn kittens rely on their sense of hearing and must navigate their surroundings without sight for the first ten days of their lives, right? She inquired.

“Yes,” She replied.

“Well, do the kittens know they're safe and sound? Or will they fall off something?” She asked.

“No, I don’t.” Rarity answered.

“When they opened their eyes, they were met with a clear tunnel of vision that would aid in their improvement and growth. This situation mirrors your own; at present, you are like a kitten lacking the sight to recognize her affection. However, once you express your feelings or find a way to be together, a pathway will emerge.” She elaborated.

Rarity momentarily widened her mouth before replying. “I’ve never encountered a discussion about love in that manner; you seem to understand it better than I do, and yet you’re always so reserved.”
“Just because I’m reserved doesn’t mean that I don’t face the same problems as you,” she responded.

They paused at the crossroads of Washington Avenue and Bridge Street while Fluttershy retrieved her phone from her right pocket. She looked at the screen, which displayed a photo of herself and Sunset at a nature reserve. Both were smiling with their tongues out; Sunset wore a red T-shirt, gray shorts, black shoes, and orange sneakers, while Fluttershy was dressed in a white T-shirt, a green dress, green boots, and pink socks adorned with white dots.

“Trust me, I know a lot about wanting to tell something what you feel.” She smiled before putting her phone back in her pocket.

“Yeah, seeing your cheeks turn pink while hugging Sunset was a clear sign darling,” she smirked.

She noted, "In contrast to me, you are generally more confident."

“Speaking of Sunset and Applejack, I hope they're okay as they have seemed more sad and frustrated during the last few weeks. They have been quieter as I hear them less in the classes we share plus they both barely hang out with us. Today like the last few twenty times we asked even before the harvest was near they rejected going out, I don’t know what’s going on but it feels off.” Rarity wondered.

“I just can’t believe how much to this day she has achieved, it's amazing what change and healing can do to a person who used to be left behind. I had recently noticed the one time around a week ago when I visited her that she wasn’t interesting in the things we used to do. Maybe it's just us getting older?” She assumed.

“Well just because we get older doesn’t mean we don’t ever have time to hang out like we used too, I would understand if for example the harvest was early or you had to go help out at the animal shelter but recently its been every day.” She explained.

“Maybe there is a way to get them to hang out with us tomorrow?” Fluttershy wondered.

Rarity suggested, "We could go out tomorrow. I've already completed most of the work to get the shipments ready, so I'm free. Plus, I got Big Mac's number, which could be helpful. Applejack will probably say she's busy with farm work, even though the apple harvest is still two weeks away. I'll need to check with Big Mac to be sure she's available."

“What are we gonna do then?” She asked.

“It’s a secret but I need you to text Sunset to see if she’s available plus maybe at 11 am you both could go to the store than drive to my place?” She suggested.

“That’s a good idea but are you sure it’s gonna work? What if they don’t wanna hang out tomorrow?” She asked.

“I don’t think they will pass us hanging out plus it will be right before the harvest to give Applejack some rest.” She reasoned.

“I guess we could," Fluttershy replied. "Would you be able to give me a ride home on your motorcycle? It's only about a 15-minute trip, but I have some errands to run before tomorrow."

"Certainly, darling," Rarity said calmly. "Get on, and I'll take you home."

Fluttershy got on Rarity's motorcycle and waited to arrive home. As she waited, she started to remember Sunset’s old self vs now while smiling.

15 minutes later, Rarity arrived at her house. The sea of spring flowers out in front. “Thanks Rarity, I’ll text you later.”

“Alright! Take care darling!” She waved before zooming off.

Location: Rarity’s Mansion
Time: 6:00 pm

Rarity arrives at her home, parking her motorbike in the driveway. She turns off the engine, and it falls silent as she retrieves another key to unlock the front gate. After securing it, she makes her way up the driveway, taking a moment to admire the trees and the mountain, its glaciers shimmering in the light of the setting sun. She softly knocks on the door, and when it opens, she is welcomed by her sister, who is dressed in a flowing light blue gown adorned with small purple gems. Without hesitation, her sister wraps her in a warm hug, Rarity smiles.

Rarity said, "Hello, darling! You look so happy and adorable in the dress I made for you. How have you been?"

Sweetie Bell exclaimed excitedly, "I'm doing great, sis!"

Rarity spoke in a joyful tone, "Wonderful! I'll call Applejack's brother, and then I'll cook you a nice meal, alright?"

Sweetie Belle exclaimed, "Okay, sis!"

Rarity locked the front door before slowly walking up the steps, their wooden texture still shiny. Rarity stepped outside as she gracefully by the hot tubs. Her eyes briefly stared at the alluring contours of the towering mountain outside, its snow-capped peak contrasting starkly against the blue sky. She smiled before grabbing her phone out of her pocket. She places it next to her ear waiting for an answer.

“Hello?” She responded.

“Hey, how you doing Rarity?” Big Mac asks.

"Hi, I'm sorry to bother you if you're busy, darling, but is Applejack available right now?" Rarity asked.

"No, she's not busy today. She hasn't been busy for the last couple of days since finishing up her farm work on Wednesday. But the truth is, Applejack has been struggling again," Big Mac confided with a sigh.

Rarity was concerned suddenly as her eyes looked down at the lake below. “I am sorry, darling. Is there anything I can do to assist you?

"I was hoping you might be able to help with that," Big Mac said. "Applejack doesn't have work this weekend, and I was wondering if you and the others could maybe distract her and get her mind off what she's feeling. Would you be free tomorrow?"

"Two of the girls and I were planning to go somewhere nice in Elbe," Rarity replied. "If you can bring Applejack there, I can have Sweetie Belle come over to keep Applebloom company.”

"That's perfect!" Big Mac exclaimed. "I'll make sure Applejack is ready, and I'll drive her to Elbe myself. You don't need to worry about paying me back or anything—I'm just grateful you're willing to help."

"Of course, darling. Applejack is my friend, and I'm deeply concerned for her.“ Said Rarity.

“Alright, I'll see you tomorrow at 12:30 in Elbe," Big Mac assured her before hanging up.

Rarity took a deep breath and steadied herself as she slowly walked out of the fashion room before heading downstairs. "Okay, girl, you've got this. Don’t screw anything up.”

Lost in thought about her friend, she slowly descended the stairs and made her way to the kitchen. There, she opened the fridge and freezer, gathering ingredients to prepare a meal for herself and her sister. She grabbed a sharp object to start cutting when her sister entered the kitchen in excitement until she saw Rarity’s expression on her face.

Approaching her sister, Sweetie Bell asked with concern, "Sis? Are you doing okay?"

“Yes, I’m fine, darling, just a little concerned about Applejack. Nothing bad, though,” said Rarity.

Sweetie Bell reassured, "Don't worry, sis. Whatever the issue is, you'll be okay."

Rarity smiled as she started to cut some bell peppers. "Thank you," she said. "Let's make some delicious BBQ chicken and salad to solve this hunger problem."

Sweetie Bell exclaimed excitedly, "Yay!”

“Now you go ahead and have fun while I put this in the oven, okay? We can experiment with some small dresses later,” she hummed.

"Okay, sis!” she bubbled before running to the living room.

First, she pulled on some gloves from the cabinet. Then, she unwrapped the chicken and placed it on a tray. Next, she gathered a mixing bowl and combined the following ingredients: one-fourth cup of Crisco oil, three-fourths cup of ketchup, three tablespoons of vinegar, one tablespoon of brown sugar, two tablespoons of dried onion flakes, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt. She measured a one-third cup of water, added it to the bowl, and thoroughly mixed everything. Lastly, she retrieved a pan, placed it on the stove, poured in the prepared mixture, and turned on the heat.

10 minutes later, she turned the stove off, pouring and spreading it carefully on the chicken while adding a little bit more seasoning before placing it in the oven. Set the timer for an hour before washing her hands, and strode towards the living room.

Once they both got into the living room, Rarity picked out three outfits for her sister to try on. First, she gave Sweetie Belle a red dress, golden doll shoes, and some purple moon-shaped earrings before going upstairs to put them on. During the 20 minutes she waited, Rarity started to think about some new outfits for Fluttershy, Sunset Shimmer, and Applejack to lighten the mood for tomorrow; she was just finishing a new swimsuit that Fluttershy had wanted after all.

“Maybe I can create new outfits for them,” she queried.

Sweetie Belle came downstairs with the outfit. “How does it look, sis?” she asked.

“That looks magnificent, darling; you look so cute!” she said, complimenting.

“Can we try the next outfit on, or do you want to take a picture?” she wondered. Let me take a picture to save this for future designs!” she smiled.

“Okay,” she responded before sitting on the blue chair.

Rarity took her phone before taking a few good photos of Sweetie Belle in the outfit. She then gave her the second outfit, which was an ocean of red and purple flowers with a green background, small golden flower earrings, and purple open-toe sandals.

They spent the next hour trying on different outfits so Rarity could get a good look at them for her design work. As soon as they finished, the kitchen timer went off, signaling that the chicken was ready. Sweetie Belle's excitement grew as she caught the aroma of spices and barbecue wafting in from the kitchen. Rarity quickly grabbed the oven mitts and opened the oven, carefully removing the chicken and setting it on the counter.

“Let it cool down for another ten minutes, then we can eat, but I do need to talk to you about something,” she insisted.

“What is it, sis?” she asked while looking puzzled.

“You going to hang out with Applebloom tomorrow while her sister helps me with something important,” she added.

“But I thought I was staying here?” she questioned.

“Well, I realized that we will be likely out all day, so you are going to spend the weekend with her since Applejack will stay at my place until Monday,” she stated.

“Yay! Sleepover with Applebloom!” she said while jumping up and down in excitement.

“Yes, it is nice that you get to hang out for a weekend! This will be your first sleepover too!” She smiled.

She took two plates and carefully placed an equal portion of chicken and salad on each. They settled down at the dinner table, and Sweetie Belle beamed as she picked up her fork and took a delicate bite of her salad.

“Wow, you’re starting with the salad instead of the chicken? Is my cooking really that unappealing?” she laughed lightly.

After swallowing her bite, Sweetie Belle replied, “No way! You taught me the importance of eating healthy, remember?”

“Right! It’s great that you’re prioritizing the salad; getting those essential nutrients and vitamins is so important,” she encouraged, before taking a bite of her own salad.

For another 15 minutes, they enjoyed their dinner while talking and discussing the plans for tomorrow. After they finished eating, she asks Sweetie belle to get ready for tomorrow. She nods before they head upstairs. She goes into her own room to start packing while Rarity goes into another room to complete some tasks.

Location: Sweet Apple Acres.

Applejack lay on her bed, her gaze fixed on the ceiling above. She caught sight of her calendar, noting that today was a day off for her. “Why was I so afraid that day? It’s all my fault,” she thought, her mind replaying the moment. Yet another voice chimed in, reminding her, “It wasn’t your fault; you were just a kid and didn’t know how to handle it.” A sigh escaped her lips as she fought back tears.

With a deep breath, she pushed herself up and swung her legs over the side of the bed. Slowly, she made her way out of her bedroom and into the bathroom. As she looked into the mirror, her eyes remained downcast. She took a moment before stepping out of her room and moving deliberately down the hallway, nearing the stairs.

Big Mac walked in before closing the door, a few chicken feathers on his shirt. “Well the flowers are watered and taken care of Applebloom.”

“Will you take care of them while im gone tomorrow?” She asked.

Big Mac sits on the wooden chair at the dining room table. “Of course, your flowers will be very healthy when you get back.”

Applebloom smiles before returning to her toys. “Rawr!” She said loudly while moving a green T-rex.

Big Mac then hears footsteps before seeing Applejack walking down the stairs. Her face frowning before turning towards her sister, she mustered a small smile upon seeing Applebloom cheerfully occupied with her toys.

“Sis, can you please come sit with me? I want to talk to you about something,” he insisted.

She nodded before sitting down in the chair beside him. “Do you need me to do a few chores?” she assumed.

"I know you've been having memories of what happened that night. Your mood has been changing over the last few weeks, and I'm worried about you. I expected you to have these moments since its close to the date it happened so I decided that I'm taking you to see Rarity tomorrow. We're picking up Sweetie Belle so you can all have some fun and she can hang out with Applebloom,” he articulated.

He continued. “I think spending time with them will help lift your spirits. I miss them too terribly, and I wish it had never happened. But the past is the past, and you can't change it. You need to let go of the guilt and anger. There's nothing wrong with feeling the way you do. Come here."

Applejack wiped away a few tears before she shared a warm, comforting hug with her brother. “Now I need you to get ready for tomorrow,” he insisted.

“Alright, let me go get some stuff ready, even though Rarity will likely have most for me anyhow,” she consoled before heading back upstairs to get ready.

Fluttershy’s house: 6:00 PM-9:00 PM

The evening was peaceful, bathed in the warm glow of a setting sun. The quiet hum of nature filled the air as she walked into the house. After locking the door behind her, she set her purse by the entrance and walked into the cozy kitchen.

The sound of running water filled the room as she prepared a pot, filling it with water and placing it on the stove. She patiently waited for the water to heat, and after about seven minutes, she carefully dropped in a few orange tea packets, the soothing aroma filling the room.

Fluttershy selected a delicate white teacup, dotted with soft flower designs, and poured the fragrant tea into it. Sitting down with her cup, she began working on her homework, her thoughts occasionally wandering. For nearly an hour, she concentrated on her assignments, but every so often, her mind drifted to Sunset Shimmer. The thought of growing closer to her friend made

Fluttershy's cheeks flush with warmth, as pink as the petals of a rose. Her emotions swirled like the steam rising from her cup.

When she finished her homework, she spent another 20 minutes sipping her tea, the warmth of the drink and her musings blending seamlessly. Eventually, she stood up, stretching before moving to the front door.

Fluttershy picked up her watering can, and stepping outside into the cool evening air, she headed to her garden. The chirping of baby birds and the gentle buzz of bees created a calming backdrop as she tended to her plants.

As she watered the garden, something in the grass caught her eye. A small fawn was resting peacefully near her flower beds. Fluttershy's face lit up with a soft smile. She moved carefully, gathering some fresh clovers to offer the young deer. "Hi, little one," she cooed softly, her voice full of warmth and reassurance. "Don’t be scared; you want some food?"

The fawn hesitated for a moment before slowly walking towards her, its delicate frame cautious yet curious. It nibbled at the clovers in her hand, and Fluttershy gently stroked its soft fur. As the fawn ate, she sat down beside it, hugging it gently, the evening settling around them like a warm blanket of serenity. In that moment, with the soft breeze and the quiet companionship of the little fawn.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape. The sky was painted in soft hues of pink, orange, and purple, creating a breathtaking contrast with the white snow on the mountain. A gentle breeze rustled the branches of nearby trees as she stood there for a moment, taking in the serene beauty of nature before walking back inside.

She walked into the kitchen and opened the fridge, the cool air brushing against her face as she reached for two carrots. The familiar scent of fresh produce filled the air as she grabbed a bowl and turned on the tap, letting the water run for a moment before filling it up.

As the water swirled inside the bowl, her thoughts drifted back to her once more. A quiet sigh escaped her lips, not one of sadness but of calm as if the memories brought with them a sense of calm before walking to Angel’s Bunny playpin.

Fluttershy smiled as she handed the carrot to Angel Bunny. "Yummy! Just how I like it!" he exclaimed.

She chuckled and sat down next to Angel, gently placing him on her lap. Fluttershy picked up the carrot and began feeding it to him, petting him softly. She then grabbed her iPhone and started texting Sunset Shimmer.

"Hey, Rarity, Applejack, and I were wondering if you'd like to hang out tomorrow. It's a girls' night since Rainbow Dash is helping her sister with soccer, Pinkie Pie is working, and Sci-Twi is studying as usual. Let me know if you're free!" Fluttershy finished with a smile.

After, she did her normal routine and had just finished preparing for bed when she saw the message. When she saw it, her heart skipped a beat as she sighed with relief. She climbed into bed with blue pajamas with yellow bunnies spotted all over them before getting in the covers and drifting to sleep.

Sunset’s Shimmer’s apartment: 9:00 PM-9:30 PM

After taking her shower and putting on her pink pajamas, she went to the kitchen and opened the fridge, grabbing some vanilla ice cream. She sat back on the couch before picking up her phone from the table and saw a notification.

She reads the message from Fluttershy. "Hey, Rarity, Applejack, and I were wondering if you'd like to hang out tomorrow. It's a girls' night since Rainbow Dash is helping her sister with soccer, Pinkie Pie is working, and Sci-Twi is studying as usual. Let me know if you're free!"

As the Equestrian girls went to sleep, they wondered what Saturday would bring to the table as the night sky over the Pacific Northwest showed the heavenly stars in the night skies as the cosmos were watching time play out between the four.

Eventually, she texted back. "Yes, just let me know what time I have to arrive at your house.” She put her phone down on the wooden table, staring back at the computer screen. “I feel exhausted.” she groaned.

Closing her web browser, pressing the power button before getting up from the wooden chair. She stretched her arms over her head as she let out a high-pitched noise from between her lips. Gently picked up the iPhone, putting it in her right pocket before slowly walking through the narrow hallway before entering her bedroom.

She reached out with her left hand to open the knob to the closet when she glanced at a picture on top of her dresser. Seeing a picture of her and Fluttershy in the hallway, Both hugging and smiling. She smiled a little before opening the closet and grabbing her pink pajamas.

After she put them on, took a few minutes to brush her teeth, do her hair, and put a checkmark with a purple marker on her calendar. She got into bed, and gently put the light sheet on her before laying on her back.

As she stared at the ceiling. “I can’t understand how they have supported me for so long when all I do is burden them.” Blinking once before a few tears went down her cheek. She closed her eyes before eventually drifting off to sleep.