Sweets stared at her reflection in the bathroom mirror. She didn’t not like, nor recognize the mare staring back. No matter how much she tried, it felt wrong, somehow even painful. Like a stab to her heart. She just felt wrong in general. Never the less she plastered on a fake smile and left the room. Closing the door behind her gently with a clawed foreleg. She didn’t have time to examine the feeling of wrongness.

The ball was going well, yet DayDream could not focus. All four of her ears flicked towards every sound. Yet she kept her fake smile up, no matter how much she was screaming internally. It felt like every eye was on her and she couldn’t help but squirm. Her dress felt too tight but somehow also too loose. Desperately she now wished she hadn’t lied to her mother about liking it. Her mother said it flattered her shape but it felt wrong. Sweets felt much too aware of her body now and it made her itch.

However her mental anguish was interrupted by her mother. The mare a laid gentle hoof on her daughter’s shoulder and leaned down. “Is something wrong my child?” Sweets shook her head and stretched her smile wider.

“No, no, of course not!” A response so robotic that Sweets felt like it came from somepony else. “I am fine.” She felt like she was under water. Celestia looked unconvinced but the young dragon pony knew her mother had other responsibilities. She gently pushed her hoof off and waved dismissively. “I am alright mother, I promise.”

Celestia was still concerned, her hoof hovered in air for a bit before she finally set it back on the ground. She sighed and smiled but there some other emotion in her eyes. “You know you can tell me anything my child. I will not judge you.” Sweets felt pinned to the spot but nodded anyways. Celestia looked around the room before turning back to her. She looked like she had something else to say but she never got the chance as a noble approached, bowed quickly, and requested an audience with her. Sweets took the opportunity to walk away. Heading towards the exit, levitating a small chalice of wine with her on the way out.

Author's Note

I’m still working on my writing skills and this definitely isn’t going to be my favorite chapter by far.