An Apple a Dayby Elk1ChaptersChapter 1: ArrivalChapter 2: Egghead ActivitiesChapter 3: BlossomingChapter 4: Good Intentions, Bad TimingChapter 5: Finding the WordsChapter 6: Making AmendsChapter 1: ArrivalRainbow Dash sat on a bench in Ponyville Park, her tail swishing in the afternoon breeze. The sun was warm on her back, but it did little to soothe the restlessness in her chest. She was waiting for Applejack—again. Ever since that moment at her place, they had started meeting up more often. At first, it felt like just hanging out with her best friend, but now, Rainbow couldn’t deny the fluttery feeling in her stomach every time Applejack called her "Dashie." She shook her head, trying to shake off the thought. “Ugh, what’s taking her so long this time?” she muttered to herself. As if on cue, Applejack came galloping into view, her hat slightly askew and a look of apology written across her face. “Sorry, Dashie! I didn’t mean to be late!” she called out as she slowed to a trot. Rainbow Dash felt the tips of her ears heat up. That nickname. Applejack had been using it casually for the past few days, and while anyone else would’ve gotten a swift kick for calling her something so sappy, with Applejack, it was different. It wasn’t annoying—it was… nice. “About time!” Rainbow said, trying to sound nonchalant as she crossed her forelegs. “I was so bored I almost fell asleep waiting for you.” Applejack grinned sheepishly. “Sorry ‘bout that. Granny’s been on my behind all mornin’, but I managed to find my golden ticket for some alone time with ya.” Rainbow Dash smirked. “Of course you did. I mean, I’m so awesome that just mentioning my name probably made her let you go.” Applejack laughed, the sound warm and genuine. “Yeah, sure, Dash. Whatever helps ya sleep at night.” Rainbow Dash chuckled, her wings giving a small flutter. “So, what’s the plan? You got something fun cooked up, right?” Applejack stopped and tilted her head. “Uh, no? I thought you were plannin’ somethin’.” “What?” Rainbow’s jaw dropped. “Are you kidding me? You dragged me out here, and you didn’t even have a plan?” Applejack shrugged, her playful grin making it hard for Rainbow to stay annoyed. “Guess not, sugarcube. But I reckon we can come up with somethin’. How ‘bout hittin’ a fair? Or grabbin’ some lunch? Just... not too close to Sweet Apple Acres. They don’t exactly know I’m gone, heh.” Rainbow’s lips curved into a mischievous smile. “Sneaking off, huh? I like it. Don’t worry—I know just the place. Let’s go.” Instead of taking to the skies, Rainbow started walking, surprising Applejack. “What, no flying today?” Rainbow glanced back, her grin softening. “Nah. I figure I can slow down for once, you know, keep pace with you.” Applejack chuckled, falling into step beside her. “How kind of ya, Miss Wonderbolt.” The two mares wandered out of the park, side by side, their easy banter filling the air. Rainbow led Applejack down winding paths, away from the hustle of Ponyville’s main square. The further they went, the quieter it became, until they reached a quaint little hill overlooking a sparkling lake. “This,” Rainbow said, spreading her wings slightly, “is my secret chill spot. Cool, huh?” Applejack took in the view, her smile softening. “It’s beautiful, Dash. Didn’t think ya had a soft side like this.” “Hey!” Rainbow protested, puffing out her chest. “I’m still awesome. I just happen to know a good spot when I see one.” Applejack chuckled, sitting down on the grass. “Well, I’ll give ya that. This is nice. Peaceful, too.” Rainbow plopped down beside her, the two of them sitting close enough that their shoulders almost touched. For a while, they just enjoyed the view in comfortable silence. “So,” Applejack finally said, breaking the quiet, “why’d ya bring me here? Not that I’m complainin’, but it seems like a place ya might keep to yourself.” Rainbow hesitated, her gaze fixed on the lake. “I dunno. Just felt like... the right place, you know? To hang out with you.” Applejack blinked, her green eyes searching Rainbow’s face. “Well, ain’t that sweet.” Rainbow groaned, flopping onto her back dramatically. “Don’t make it weird, AJ.” Applejack laughed, leaning back on her hooves. “Alright, alright. I’ll let it slide this time.” They stayed like that for a while, the warmth of the sun and the gentle rustle of the breeze wrapping around them. Rainbow glanced sideways at Applejack, her heart doing that annoying fluttery thing again. “Hey, AJ,” she said softly. “Yeah, Dashie?” Rainbow hesitated, her usual confidence faltering. “Uh... never mind. It’s nothing.” Applejack raised an eyebrow but didn’t push. Instead, she leaned back fully, letting herself relax. “Well, whatever it is, ya know I’m here for ya. Always.” Rainbow felt her cheeks heat up again, but she managed a small smile. “Yeah. Thanks.” As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, painting the horizon with shades of orange and pink, Rainbow Dash couldn’t help but feel grateful. Grateful for this spot, this moment, and most of all, for the pony sitting beside her. Whatever this feeling was, she wasn’t ready to put a name to it. But for now, just being here with Applejack was enough. Chapter 2: Egghead ActivitiesThe tranquil setting of the lake wrapped around them like a warm blanket as Applejack and Rainbow Dash sat side by side, the silence between them surprisingly comfortable. It wasn’t often they had moments like this—quiet, easy, and uninterrupted by the usual chaos of their lives. Applejack glanced over at Rainbow Dash, a small grin tugging at her lips. “Hey, Dashie,” she began, breaking the silence. “I know you ain’t really into all that sappy stuff, but… wanna braid manes? Could be fun.” Rainbow Dash blinked, taken aback. “Braid manes? Like... mane braiding?” Applejack chuckled, nodding. “Yeah. Just for fun. Don’t worry, I won’t tell anypony if you’re worried about your ‘cool’ reputation.” Rainbow’s first instinct was to flat-out refuse. Mane braiding was something eggheads or little fillies did—not a Wonderbolt like her. But then she looked at Applejack, her green eyes bright with mischief and warmth, and something inside her softened. “Fine,” she muttered, turning around and fluffing her rainbow-colored mane slightly. “But just this once. And only because nopony’s around to see.” Applejack smirked, pulling her saddlebags closer. “That’s the spirit, sugarcube.” Rainbow Dash felt the oddest sensation as Applejack’s hooves gently combed through her mane, her touch steady and confident. Goosebumps prickled along her neck, and she shifted slightly, unsure of what to make of the sensation. “Uh, just so you know, I’ve never done this before,” Rainbow muttered. “So, like, if I try to do yours and it ends up looking like a bird’s nest—” “Shhh,” Applejack interrupted softly, her voice like a calming breeze. “Let me handle this part. I got practice braidin’ Apple Bloom’s mane now and then.” Rainbow went quiet, letting herself relax as Applejack worked. The rhythmic tugging and twisting of her mane were oddly soothing, and for a moment, she let herself just... enjoy it. “There,” Applejack finally said, tying off the braid with a small ribbon she’d pulled from her bag. She grabbed a little hoof mirror and held it up for Rainbow Dash to see. Rainbow stared at her reflection, her jaw slack. Her mane was pulled into a sleek, intricate braid that somehow still managed to look cool—almost warrior-like. “Whoa... that’s actually pretty awesome,” she said, turning her head from side to side. Applejack chuckled, her chest swelling with pride. “Glad ya like it. I reckon it suits ya, Dashie.” Rainbow grinned, her confidence surging. “Okay, your turn. But, uh... don’t get mad if I mess it up, alright?” Applejack handed her mane over easily, her expression patient and trusting. “Don’t worry, I’ll walk ya through it. Just grab a section and start twistin’. You’ll get the hang of it.” Rainbow hesitated, staring at the golden strands of Applejack’s mane. She wasn’t the most careful pony, and the last thing she wanted was to pull too hard or completely ruin the braid. But Applejack’s easygoing smile reassured her, and she took a deep breath. “Okay, here goes nothing,” Rainbow muttered, grabbing a small section of mane. Applejack began giving her instructions, her voice calm and steady. “Now divide it into three parts… good. Take the left over the middle, then the right over the new middle.” Rainbow followed along, her tongue sticking out in concentration. It was harder than it looked, but she was determined to at least try. Applejack’s mane was softer than she expected, and as she worked, she found herself relaxing into the process. “See? Ya got it,” Applejack said encouragingly. “Just keep goin’ like that.” Rainbow Dash grinned, her confidence growing. “Hah, maybe I’m better at this than I thought.” Applejack chuckled, the sound warm and easy. “Told ya it wasn’t that hard.” They continued like that, the atmosphere light and filled with occasional laughs as Rainbow fumbled here and there. By the time she tied off the braid with another ribbon, she was feeling pretty proud of herself. “Done!” Rainbow declared, stepping back to admire her work. Applejack grabbed the mirror and turned her head to examine the braid. It wasn’t perfect—some sections were looser than others—but it was still a solid effort. She smiled warmly. “Looks great, Dash. Thanks.” Rainbow felt a warm glow in her chest at the praise. “No problem. I mean, I’m awesome at everything I try, so it’s no big deal.” Applejack rolled her eyes playfully but didn’t argue. Instead, she leaned back on the grass, letting her braid dangle over her shoulder. “Well, that was a nice lil’ activity. Reckon we should add it to our hangout list?” Rainbow scoffed, though a small smile tugged at her lips. “Don’t push it, AJ.” Applejack laughed, her voice carrying over the quiet lake. “Alright, alright. No more ‘egghead activities’ for today.” They fell into a comfortable silence again, the sun dipping lower in the sky. Rainbow Dash glanced at Applejack, her heart doing that now-familiar fluttery thing. “Hey, AJ,” she said softly, her voice breaking the quiet. “Yeah, Dashie?” Rainbow hesitated for a moment, then smirked. “Thanks for, uh, being cool. Even if you’re kind of a dork sometimes.” Applejack chuckled, tipping her hat back. “Right back at ya, Dash. Right back at ya.” And with that, they sat side by side, the warmth of their friendship—and something more—settling around them like the setting sun. Chapter 3: BlossomingThe soft hum of crickets filled the air as Applejack and Rainbow Dash sat on the hill overlooking the quiet town of Ponyville. The gentle breeze carried the faint scent of wildflowers, blending with the coolness of the night. Rainbow Dash leaned back, propping herself up on her forelegs as her gaze drifted to the darkening sky. Applejack broke the silence, her voice low and filled with awe. “Check it, Dashie. Ya don’t see that often.” Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow, glancing at Applejack before following her gaze upward. “What, the moon?” Applejack giggled, her laugh warm and musical. “No, that, silly!” She pointed at the sky where a comet streaked across, leaving a brilliant trail of light in its wake. Rainbow Dash blinked, taken aback by the sight. “Whoa... that’s awesome.” Applejack nodded, her expression soft and thoughtful. “I heard they’re called shootin’ stars. Granny always told me if you see one and make a wish, it’s sure to come true—long as ya don’t tell nobody, of course.” Rainbow Dash tilted her head, a playful smirk creeping onto her face. “You actually believe that, AJ?” Applejack shrugged, her green eyes sparkling in the starlight. “Maybe. Ain’t hurt to have a lil’ faith in somethin’ magical now and then.” Rainbow Dash looked back at the comet, a rare smile tugging at her lips. “Well, I already made mine.” She turned her attention back to Applejack, her breath catching slightly as she took in the sight of her friend. Applejack’s eyes shimmered under the glow of the stars, her golden mane catching the faint light as it framed her face. For the first time, Rainbow Dash’s usual cocky demeanor faltered. What is this feeling? she wondered. Every time I see her like this, it feels like I can barely stand. I don’t know why I feel this way, but I get all hot and my heart jumps like crazy. “You’re, uh, real pretty under the stars,” Rainbow Dash blurted before she could stop herself. Applejack’s eyes widened, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red. “Oh! Uh, er, thanks, Dashie. Quite the flatterer, aren’tcha?” Rainbow Dash grinned, feeling a surge of pride at Applejack’s reaction. Got her, she thought smugly. Look who’s all flustered now. I’m just the coolest like that. They sat in silence for a while, the comet fading into the distance but leaving behind an unspoken warmth between them. The stars above seemed to shine brighter, as if they too were privy to the quiet exchange. Applejack broke the silence again, her voice hesitant but sincere. “I- I should probably head back. This was nice, Dashie. We should do this again sometime.” Rainbow Dash nodded, but a pang of disappointment settled in her chest. She didn’t want the moment to end, didn’t want Applejack to leave. For reasons she couldn’t fully understand, just being here with Applejack felt... right. “Yeah, we should,” Rainbow Dash said, trying to keep her tone casual. Applejack stood, brushing the grass off her coat before adjusting her hat. She hesitated for a moment, her green eyes meeting Rainbow Dash’s. “Thanks for spendin’ the evenin’ with me, Dash. It meant a lot.” Rainbow Dash’s heart gave a little flutter, but she played it cool, waving a hoof. “No big deal. You know me—I’m always up for something awesome.” Applejack smiled, tipping her hat. “G’night, Dashie.” “Night, AJ,” Rainbow Dash replied, watching as Applejack trotted down the hill and disappeared into the darkness. For a moment, Rainbow Dash sat there alone, the cool night air wrapping around her. The spot where Applejack had been felt strangely empty now, and a soft sigh escaped her lips. She stood and stretched her wings, preparing to head home. As she flew through the quiet skies of Ponyville, her mind replayed the evening’s events—the way Applejack’s laugh had sounded, the way her eyes had sparkled, and the way her blush had painted her cheeks. For the first time, Rainbow Dash let herself acknowledge what she had been feeling. Maybe this wasn’t just friendship anymore. Maybe it was something more, something deeper. And for the first time, that thought didn’t scare her. It just felt... right. Chapter 4: Good Intentions, Bad TimingThe sun hung high in the sky as Rainbow Dash landed at Sweet Apple Acres, her wings folding neatly at her sides. She glanced around, taking in the sprawling orchards and the rustic charm of the farm. She hadn’t visited often, but the invitation from Applejack felt special, even if she wasn’t quite sure why. Big Macintosh was the first pony she saw, working hard as always, bucking apples from a tree. Rainbow Dash approached him with a confident grin. “Hey, Big Mac! Have you seen Applejack?” Big Mac paused, tilting his head toward the carrot patch. “E-yup,” he said simply, then went back to his work. Rainbow Dash followed his gesture and spotted Applejack bent over, pulling weeds from the soil. The sight made her pause. The golden light of the afternoon highlighted Applejack’s form as she worked diligently, her mane tied back, her hat slightly askew. Wow, she is so hot, Rainbow Dash thought, then immediately recoiled at herself. What on earth am I thinking!? She shook her head and stared at the ground. She’s just a friend… right? Applejack must have noticed the hesitation because she straightened up and waved at Dash, her smile wide and welcoming. “Y’know, it’s rude to stare,” Applejack teased as Dash approached. “Just wanted to make things less awkward for ya.” Rainbow Dash felt her cheeks warm. “Sorry, AJ. I, uh, was just... zoning out.” Applejack chuckled, brushing some dirt off her foreleg. “Well, come on then. I’ve got a spot where we can have some peace and quiet.” Dash’s ears perked up at the thought. “Finally! I thought we’d be stuck around all these other ponies forever. Let’s go!” Applejack smirked at Rainbow Dash’s enthusiasm. “You’re excited, huh?” Dash nodded, and the two trotted off together, making their way behind the barn to a secluded spot. It was quiet there, with only the sound of the breeze rustling through the apple trees. The conversation started light, with casual jokes and stories, but as time went on, their words grew softer. Applejack leaned slightly closer, her emerald eyes shining with warmth. “What pretty eyes ya have, RD,” Applejack said suddenly, her voice carrying a hint of teasing but also something deeper. Rainbow Dash’s breath hitched. Her usual bravado crumbled under Applejack’s gaze, and she hated how easily the earth pony could fluster her. Applejack always seemed to know her weak spots. Their faces were so close now that Rainbow Dash could feel the faint heat radiating from Applejack’s cheeks. The world around them seemed to fade, the only thing that mattered being the small distance that still separated them. Just as they began to lean closer, a familiar voice cut through the moment like a thunderclap. “Sis, ya back here? I just thought I’d tell... you... am I interruptin’ somethin’?” Both ponies froze, their eyes snapping to Apple Bloom, who stood a few feet away with wide, curious eyes. Quickly, they shuffled away from each other, their faces matching the hue of the ripest apples in the orchard. “Nope, nothin’s up!” Applejack said, her voice a little too loud. “Whatcha need, lil sis?” Apple Bloom blinked, clearly unconvinced. “I- I think I forgot. I’ll leave y’all to it, I guess.” She turned and trotted away, casting one last curious glance over her shoulder before disappearing around the corner of the barn. Applejack groaned, dragging her hat down over her face. “Er, sorry about that. Apple Bloom’s got the worst timin’, I swear.” Rainbow Dash managed a weak smile, but her earlier confidence was gone. “I- It’s fine. Don’t worry about it.” She took a step back, her wings fidgeting. “I should probably get going, though. See you around, AJ.” Applejack reached out a hoof, her voice tinged with concern. “Wait, Dashie, please don’t go—” But Rainbow Dash was already in the air, her wings carrying her away before Applejack could finish her sentence. Applejack watched her fly off, the sinking feeling in her chest growing heavier with each second. She sighed deeply, pulling her hat off and clutching it tightly. Why can’t things ever just go smoothly? For the rest of the evening, Applejack tried to busy herself with work, but her mind kept drifting back to Rainbow Dash—the way her eyes had looked, the way her voice had sounded when she said she was leaving. Applejack felt a pang of guilt. She should have said more, done more, to stop her from leaving. Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash flew aimlessly above Ponyville, the wind whipping through her mane. Her chest ached in a way she didn’t fully understand. Why did I leave like that? Why couldn’t I just stay? She landed on a cloud, flopping onto her back and staring up at the stars as they began to peek out from the twilight sky. “Great job, Dash,” she muttered to herself. “You had a moment, and you blew it.” But even as she lay there, replaying the day in her mind, one thought kept surfacing: I’ve got to make this right. Author's Note My sibling despises Apple Bloom, so I like to tease her with appearances within my stories cause she likes to read them. Thought this would be good 😈 Chapter 5: Finding the WordsApplejack sat beneath the shade of an old apple tree, her hat pulled low over her face, shielding her emotions from the world. The evening sun cast long shadows across the orchard, but the warmth of the day did little to thaw the chill that had settled in her chest. She replayed the encounter in her mind, her frustration mounting with every passing moment. She knew Apple Bloom hadn’t meant to interrupt, but the intrusion had been poorly timed, to say the least. Worse yet, Applejack couldn’t help but feel angry at herself. Why didn’t I pick a better spot? she thought bitterly, kicking a small rock with her hoof. Why couldn’t I just say somethin’ sooner? Her thoughts drifted to Rainbow Dash’s flustered expression, the way her cheeks turned pink whenever Applejack teased her. She couldn’t help but smile at the memory, even as it made her chest ache. She was so close, Applejack thought, pulling her hat lower. I was so close. But now… She sighed heavily, her frustration giving way to regret. I’ve gotta find the right words to fix this. High above Ponyville, Rainbow Dash sped through the sky, her wings beating furiously as she tried to outrun the storm of emotions swirling inside her. She darted between clouds, her mane streaming behind her like a streak of color against the darkening sky. Her thoughts raced just as fast as her body. Why did I leave like that? she berated herself. Why couldn’t I just stay and act cool for once? She imagined the look on Applejack’s face—confused, maybe even hurt. The thought made her chest tighten painfully. She probably thinks I’m an idiot, Rainbow Dash thought, biting her lip. Or worse, she hates me now. The idea was unbearable. Applejack’s opinion mattered more to her than she wanted to admit, even to herself. Dash landed on a remote hill just outside Ponyville, her hooves sinking into the soft grass. She flopped onto her back, staring up at the first stars of the evening. Why does this have to be so hard? she wondered, pressing a hoof to her forehead. I’ve faced dragons, changelings, and Nightmare Moon, and none of that was this scary. The truth gnawed at her, but she couldn’t deny it anymore: Applejack was different. Special. And somewhere along the way, Rainbow Dash had stopped seeing her as just a friend. But now, Dash had messed things up. She could still see the disappointment in Applejack’s eyes, even though she had flown off before AJ could say anything. I need to apologize, Dash thought, sitting up abruptly. I need to tell her how I feel. But what if it’s too late? What if I blew it? She groaned, flopping back onto the grass. “Get it together, Dash,” she muttered to herself. “You’ve gotta find the words.” Applejack, meanwhile, had retreated to the barn. She paced back and forth, the familiar surroundings offering little comfort. She thought about the way Rainbow Dash had looked at her earlier, the slight hesitation in her movements, the vulnerability she rarely showed. Why’d she have to fly off like that? Applejack wondered, frustration bubbling up again. Was I too forward? Did I scare her off? She leaned against the barn door, her head resting on the cool wood. For all her strength and resilience, matters of the heart left her feeling unsure and exposed. She knew she couldn’t let things stay like this. She cared about Rainbow Dash too much to let a misunderstanding or poorly timed interruption ruin everything. I just need to talk to her, Applejack decided. But what do I say? How do I make her understand? That night, Rainbow Dash couldn’t sleep. She tossed and turned on her cloud bed, her mind racing with half-formed sentences and imaginary scenarios. She tried to imagine how Applejack might react to an apology. She’ll probably laugh at me, Dash thought, groaning. Or worse, she won’t believe me. But as much as the fear of rejection gnawed at her, the thought of leaving things unresolved was even worse. The next morning, Applejack rose with the sun, determined to set things right. She went about her chores mechanically, her mind elsewhere. She rehearsed what she might say, but no matter how she phrased it, the words felt clumsy and inadequate. Rainbow Dash, on the other hand, took her time getting up. She wasn’t ready to face Applejack yet, but she knew she couldn’t avoid her forever. Maybe I’ll fly by the farm later, she told herself. See if I can work up the nerve. But as fate would have it, their paths crossed sooner than either of them expected. Applejack was hauling a cart of apples toward town when she spotted a familiar streak of rainbow in the sky. She stopped in her tracks, her heart skipping a beat as Dash descended, landing a few feet away. They stood in awkward silence for a moment, both unsure of where to begin. “Hey, AJ,” Dash said finally, her voice quieter than usual. “Hey, Dashie,” Applejack replied, her tone equally soft. They stared at each other, the weight of unspoken words hanging heavily between them. Finally, Rainbow Dash took a deep breath and said, “Look, about yesterday… I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have flown off like that. I just… I didn’t know what to say.” Applejack nodded slowly, her green eyes searching Dash’s face. “I get it,” she said. “I’ve been beatin’ myself up, thinkin’ I messed it all up too.” Rainbow Dash blinked. “You? Messed up? No way.” Applejack smiled faintly. “We both coulda handled it better, I reckon.” There was a pause before Dash asked, “So… are we good?” Applejack stepped closer, her smile widening. “We’re better than good, Dashie. But we’ve still got plenty to talk about.” Rainbow Dash grinned. “Yeah. Let’s talk.” Chapter 6: Making AmendsRainbow Dash exhaled a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding. Relief washed over her, but her heart still raced in her chest, as though it was trying to break free. For a moment, she had truly believed she had ruined everything with Applejack. Yet here they were, walking side by side, heading toward a secluded spot that Applejack promised would be perfect for a private talk. The path they took wound through the outskirts of Sweet Apple Acres and into the quiet forest beyond. It was a hidden nook, shielded by a massive tree whose roots curled up from the ground to create a small, natural alcove. Rainbow Dash looked around, impressed. “Wow, AJ. You’ve been holding out on me. This place is awesome.” Applejack chuckled. “Figured you’d like it. Nice and quiet. Perfect for... talkin’.” Dash raised an eyebrow but said nothing. They settled down under the roots, the soft hum of crickets filling the air around them. For a while, they bantered lightly, their conversation filled with teasing remarks and easy laughter. It felt natural, but both mares knew it was only a prelude to something deeper. As the sunlight began to fade, painting the sky in hues of gold and pink, the atmosphere shifted. The air between them grew heavy, charged with unspoken emotions. Rainbow Dash caught herself glancing at Applejack more often, her heart skipping a beat each time their eyes met. Applejack seemed to notice. She tilted her head, her emerald gaze steady and warm. “Dashie, can I ask ya somethin’?” Rainbow Dash swallowed hard. “Uh, yeah. Sure.” Applejack hesitated, her cheeks tinged with pink. “When ya ran off the other day... what were ya thinkin’? Be honest with me, sugarcube.” Dash rubbed the back of her neck, her wings twitching nervously. “I... I thought I messed everything up. I thought you’d never want to see me again.” Applejack’s expression softened, and she leaned closer. “Dash, that ain’t true. I was hurt, sure, but... I’ve been thinkin’ about you nonstop since then.” Rainbow Dash blinked, her breath catching. “Y-You have?” Applejack nodded. “You’re somethin’ special to me, Dashie. And I don’t wanna mess this up, neither.” The sun dipped lower on the horizon, its last rays casting a golden glow over the two mares. Rainbow Dash felt her chest tighten, but this time, it wasn’t fear—it was hope. Their eyes locked, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. Applejack leaned in first, her movements slow and deliberate, giving Rainbow Dash every chance to pull away. But Dash didn’t. Instead, she closed the gap, her heart pounding as their lips met. The kiss was soft at first, hesitant and unsure, but it quickly deepened as they melted into each other. Rainbow Dash felt a warmth spread through her, chasing away all her doubts and fears. Applejack’s hat slipped off, forgotten in the moment, as her hoof gently rested on Dash’s cheek. When they finally pulled apart, they were both breathless, their cheeks flushed. Applejack chuckled nervously, brushing a strand of her mane out of her face. “Heh, that was... somethin’.” Rainbow Dash flopped backward onto the ground, her wings splayed out as she tried to regain her composure. Her face was as red as the apples in Applejack’s orchard. “Yeah... somethin’,” she murmured, a dazed smile on her lips. Applejack laughed, the sound light and genuine. She stood, picking up her hat and dusting it off. “Well, I reckon I should head back before Apple Bloom comes lookin’ for me again. But, Dashie... let’s do this again soon, alright?” Rainbow Dash propped herself up on her elbows, her grin widening. “Yeah. Definitely.” As Applejack trotted off, her silhouette illuminated by the fading light, Rainbow Dash stayed behind, lying under the tree as the stars began to appear. Her mind replayed the kiss over and over, her heart swelling with a feeling she was only beginning to understand. She didn’t know how long she stayed there, staring up at the night sky, but for the first time in a long while, she felt at peace. And for Rainbow Dash, peace was a rare and wonderful thing.
Chapter 1: ArrivalRainbow Dash sat on a bench in Ponyville Park, her tail swishing in the afternoon breeze. The sun was warm on her back, but it did little to soothe the restlessness in her chest. She was waiting for Applejack—again. Ever since that moment at her place, they had started meeting up more often. At first, it felt like just hanging out with her best friend, but now, Rainbow couldn’t deny the fluttery feeling in her stomach every time Applejack called her "Dashie." She shook her head, trying to shake off the thought. “Ugh, what’s taking her so long this time?” she muttered to herself. As if on cue, Applejack came galloping into view, her hat slightly askew and a look of apology written across her face. “Sorry, Dashie! I didn’t mean to be late!” she called out as she slowed to a trot. Rainbow Dash felt the tips of her ears heat up. That nickname. Applejack had been using it casually for the past few days, and while anyone else would’ve gotten a swift kick for calling her something so sappy, with Applejack, it was different. It wasn’t annoying—it was… nice. “About time!” Rainbow said, trying to sound nonchalant as she crossed her forelegs. “I was so bored I almost fell asleep waiting for you.” Applejack grinned sheepishly. “Sorry ‘bout that. Granny’s been on my behind all mornin’, but I managed to find my golden ticket for some alone time with ya.” Rainbow Dash smirked. “Of course you did. I mean, I’m so awesome that just mentioning my name probably made her let you go.” Applejack laughed, the sound warm and genuine. “Yeah, sure, Dash. Whatever helps ya sleep at night.” Rainbow Dash chuckled, her wings giving a small flutter. “So, what’s the plan? You got something fun cooked up, right?” Applejack stopped and tilted her head. “Uh, no? I thought you were plannin’ somethin’.” “What?” Rainbow’s jaw dropped. “Are you kidding me? You dragged me out here, and you didn’t even have a plan?” Applejack shrugged, her playful grin making it hard for Rainbow to stay annoyed. “Guess not, sugarcube. But I reckon we can come up with somethin’. How ‘bout hittin’ a fair? Or grabbin’ some lunch? Just... not too close to Sweet Apple Acres. They don’t exactly know I’m gone, heh.” Rainbow’s lips curved into a mischievous smile. “Sneaking off, huh? I like it. Don’t worry—I know just the place. Let’s go.” Instead of taking to the skies, Rainbow started walking, surprising Applejack. “What, no flying today?” Rainbow glanced back, her grin softening. “Nah. I figure I can slow down for once, you know, keep pace with you.” Applejack chuckled, falling into step beside her. “How kind of ya, Miss Wonderbolt.” The two mares wandered out of the park, side by side, their easy banter filling the air. Rainbow led Applejack down winding paths, away from the hustle of Ponyville’s main square. The further they went, the quieter it became, until they reached a quaint little hill overlooking a sparkling lake. “This,” Rainbow said, spreading her wings slightly, “is my secret chill spot. Cool, huh?” Applejack took in the view, her smile softening. “It’s beautiful, Dash. Didn’t think ya had a soft side like this.” “Hey!” Rainbow protested, puffing out her chest. “I’m still awesome. I just happen to know a good spot when I see one.” Applejack chuckled, sitting down on the grass. “Well, I’ll give ya that. This is nice. Peaceful, too.” Rainbow plopped down beside her, the two of them sitting close enough that their shoulders almost touched. For a while, they just enjoyed the view in comfortable silence. “So,” Applejack finally said, breaking the quiet, “why’d ya bring me here? Not that I’m complainin’, but it seems like a place ya might keep to yourself.” Rainbow hesitated, her gaze fixed on the lake. “I dunno. Just felt like... the right place, you know? To hang out with you.” Applejack blinked, her green eyes searching Rainbow’s face. “Well, ain’t that sweet.” Rainbow groaned, flopping onto her back dramatically. “Don’t make it weird, AJ.” Applejack laughed, leaning back on her hooves. “Alright, alright. I’ll let it slide this time.” They stayed like that for a while, the warmth of the sun and the gentle rustle of the breeze wrapping around them. Rainbow glanced sideways at Applejack, her heart doing that annoying fluttery thing again. “Hey, AJ,” she said softly. “Yeah, Dashie?” Rainbow hesitated, her usual confidence faltering. “Uh... never mind. It’s nothing.” Applejack raised an eyebrow but didn’t push. Instead, she leaned back fully, letting herself relax. “Well, whatever it is, ya know I’m here for ya. Always.” Rainbow felt her cheeks heat up again, but she managed a small smile. “Yeah. Thanks.” As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, painting the horizon with shades of orange and pink, Rainbow Dash couldn’t help but feel grateful. Grateful for this spot, this moment, and most of all, for the pony sitting beside her. Whatever this feeling was, she wasn’t ready to put a name to it. But for now, just being here with Applejack was enough.
Chapter 2: Egghead ActivitiesThe tranquil setting of the lake wrapped around them like a warm blanket as Applejack and Rainbow Dash sat side by side, the silence between them surprisingly comfortable. It wasn’t often they had moments like this—quiet, easy, and uninterrupted by the usual chaos of their lives. Applejack glanced over at Rainbow Dash, a small grin tugging at her lips. “Hey, Dashie,” she began, breaking the silence. “I know you ain’t really into all that sappy stuff, but… wanna braid manes? Could be fun.” Rainbow Dash blinked, taken aback. “Braid manes? Like... mane braiding?” Applejack chuckled, nodding. “Yeah. Just for fun. Don’t worry, I won’t tell anypony if you’re worried about your ‘cool’ reputation.” Rainbow’s first instinct was to flat-out refuse. Mane braiding was something eggheads or little fillies did—not a Wonderbolt like her. But then she looked at Applejack, her green eyes bright with mischief and warmth, and something inside her softened. “Fine,” she muttered, turning around and fluffing her rainbow-colored mane slightly. “But just this once. And only because nopony’s around to see.” Applejack smirked, pulling her saddlebags closer. “That’s the spirit, sugarcube.” Rainbow Dash felt the oddest sensation as Applejack’s hooves gently combed through her mane, her touch steady and confident. Goosebumps prickled along her neck, and she shifted slightly, unsure of what to make of the sensation. “Uh, just so you know, I’ve never done this before,” Rainbow muttered. “So, like, if I try to do yours and it ends up looking like a bird’s nest—” “Shhh,” Applejack interrupted softly, her voice like a calming breeze. “Let me handle this part. I got practice braidin’ Apple Bloom’s mane now and then.” Rainbow went quiet, letting herself relax as Applejack worked. The rhythmic tugging and twisting of her mane were oddly soothing, and for a moment, she let herself just... enjoy it. “There,” Applejack finally said, tying off the braid with a small ribbon she’d pulled from her bag. She grabbed a little hoof mirror and held it up for Rainbow Dash to see. Rainbow stared at her reflection, her jaw slack. Her mane was pulled into a sleek, intricate braid that somehow still managed to look cool—almost warrior-like. “Whoa... that’s actually pretty awesome,” she said, turning her head from side to side. Applejack chuckled, her chest swelling with pride. “Glad ya like it. I reckon it suits ya, Dashie.” Rainbow grinned, her confidence surging. “Okay, your turn. But, uh... don’t get mad if I mess it up, alright?” Applejack handed her mane over easily, her expression patient and trusting. “Don’t worry, I’ll walk ya through it. Just grab a section and start twistin’. You’ll get the hang of it.” Rainbow hesitated, staring at the golden strands of Applejack’s mane. She wasn’t the most careful pony, and the last thing she wanted was to pull too hard or completely ruin the braid. But Applejack’s easygoing smile reassured her, and she took a deep breath. “Okay, here goes nothing,” Rainbow muttered, grabbing a small section of mane. Applejack began giving her instructions, her voice calm and steady. “Now divide it into three parts… good. Take the left over the middle, then the right over the new middle.” Rainbow followed along, her tongue sticking out in concentration. It was harder than it looked, but she was determined to at least try. Applejack’s mane was softer than she expected, and as she worked, she found herself relaxing into the process. “See? Ya got it,” Applejack said encouragingly. “Just keep goin’ like that.” Rainbow Dash grinned, her confidence growing. “Hah, maybe I’m better at this than I thought.” Applejack chuckled, the sound warm and easy. “Told ya it wasn’t that hard.” They continued like that, the atmosphere light and filled with occasional laughs as Rainbow fumbled here and there. By the time she tied off the braid with another ribbon, she was feeling pretty proud of herself. “Done!” Rainbow declared, stepping back to admire her work. Applejack grabbed the mirror and turned her head to examine the braid. It wasn’t perfect—some sections were looser than others—but it was still a solid effort. She smiled warmly. “Looks great, Dash. Thanks.” Rainbow felt a warm glow in her chest at the praise. “No problem. I mean, I’m awesome at everything I try, so it’s no big deal.” Applejack rolled her eyes playfully but didn’t argue. Instead, she leaned back on the grass, letting her braid dangle over her shoulder. “Well, that was a nice lil’ activity. Reckon we should add it to our hangout list?” Rainbow scoffed, though a small smile tugged at her lips. “Don’t push it, AJ.” Applejack laughed, her voice carrying over the quiet lake. “Alright, alright. No more ‘egghead activities’ for today.” They fell into a comfortable silence again, the sun dipping lower in the sky. Rainbow Dash glanced at Applejack, her heart doing that now-familiar fluttery thing. “Hey, AJ,” she said softly, her voice breaking the quiet. “Yeah, Dashie?” Rainbow hesitated for a moment, then smirked. “Thanks for, uh, being cool. Even if you’re kind of a dork sometimes.” Applejack chuckled, tipping her hat back. “Right back at ya, Dash. Right back at ya.” And with that, they sat side by side, the warmth of their friendship—and something more—settling around them like the setting sun.
Chapter 3: BlossomingThe soft hum of crickets filled the air as Applejack and Rainbow Dash sat on the hill overlooking the quiet town of Ponyville. The gentle breeze carried the faint scent of wildflowers, blending with the coolness of the night. Rainbow Dash leaned back, propping herself up on her forelegs as her gaze drifted to the darkening sky. Applejack broke the silence, her voice low and filled with awe. “Check it, Dashie. Ya don’t see that often.” Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow, glancing at Applejack before following her gaze upward. “What, the moon?” Applejack giggled, her laugh warm and musical. “No, that, silly!” She pointed at the sky where a comet streaked across, leaving a brilliant trail of light in its wake. Rainbow Dash blinked, taken aback by the sight. “Whoa... that’s awesome.” Applejack nodded, her expression soft and thoughtful. “I heard they’re called shootin’ stars. Granny always told me if you see one and make a wish, it’s sure to come true—long as ya don’t tell nobody, of course.” Rainbow Dash tilted her head, a playful smirk creeping onto her face. “You actually believe that, AJ?” Applejack shrugged, her green eyes sparkling in the starlight. “Maybe. Ain’t hurt to have a lil’ faith in somethin’ magical now and then.” Rainbow Dash looked back at the comet, a rare smile tugging at her lips. “Well, I already made mine.” She turned her attention back to Applejack, her breath catching slightly as she took in the sight of her friend. Applejack’s eyes shimmered under the glow of the stars, her golden mane catching the faint light as it framed her face. For the first time, Rainbow Dash’s usual cocky demeanor faltered. What is this feeling? she wondered. Every time I see her like this, it feels like I can barely stand. I don’t know why I feel this way, but I get all hot and my heart jumps like crazy. “You’re, uh, real pretty under the stars,” Rainbow Dash blurted before she could stop herself. Applejack’s eyes widened, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red. “Oh! Uh, er, thanks, Dashie. Quite the flatterer, aren’tcha?” Rainbow Dash grinned, feeling a surge of pride at Applejack’s reaction. Got her, she thought smugly. Look who’s all flustered now. I’m just the coolest like that. They sat in silence for a while, the comet fading into the distance but leaving behind an unspoken warmth between them. The stars above seemed to shine brighter, as if they too were privy to the quiet exchange. Applejack broke the silence again, her voice hesitant but sincere. “I- I should probably head back. This was nice, Dashie. We should do this again sometime.” Rainbow Dash nodded, but a pang of disappointment settled in her chest. She didn’t want the moment to end, didn’t want Applejack to leave. For reasons she couldn’t fully understand, just being here with Applejack felt... right. “Yeah, we should,” Rainbow Dash said, trying to keep her tone casual. Applejack stood, brushing the grass off her coat before adjusting her hat. She hesitated for a moment, her green eyes meeting Rainbow Dash’s. “Thanks for spendin’ the evenin’ with me, Dash. It meant a lot.” Rainbow Dash’s heart gave a little flutter, but she played it cool, waving a hoof. “No big deal. You know me—I’m always up for something awesome.” Applejack smiled, tipping her hat. “G’night, Dashie.” “Night, AJ,” Rainbow Dash replied, watching as Applejack trotted down the hill and disappeared into the darkness. For a moment, Rainbow Dash sat there alone, the cool night air wrapping around her. The spot where Applejack had been felt strangely empty now, and a soft sigh escaped her lips. She stood and stretched her wings, preparing to head home. As she flew through the quiet skies of Ponyville, her mind replayed the evening’s events—the way Applejack’s laugh had sounded, the way her eyes had sparkled, and the way her blush had painted her cheeks. For the first time, Rainbow Dash let herself acknowledge what she had been feeling. Maybe this wasn’t just friendship anymore. Maybe it was something more, something deeper. And for the first time, that thought didn’t scare her. It just felt... right.
Chapter 4: Good Intentions, Bad TimingThe sun hung high in the sky as Rainbow Dash landed at Sweet Apple Acres, her wings folding neatly at her sides. She glanced around, taking in the sprawling orchards and the rustic charm of the farm. She hadn’t visited often, but the invitation from Applejack felt special, even if she wasn’t quite sure why. Big Macintosh was the first pony she saw, working hard as always, bucking apples from a tree. Rainbow Dash approached him with a confident grin. “Hey, Big Mac! Have you seen Applejack?” Big Mac paused, tilting his head toward the carrot patch. “E-yup,” he said simply, then went back to his work. Rainbow Dash followed his gesture and spotted Applejack bent over, pulling weeds from the soil. The sight made her pause. The golden light of the afternoon highlighted Applejack’s form as she worked diligently, her mane tied back, her hat slightly askew. Wow, she is so hot, Rainbow Dash thought, then immediately recoiled at herself. What on earth am I thinking!? She shook her head and stared at the ground. She’s just a friend… right? Applejack must have noticed the hesitation because she straightened up and waved at Dash, her smile wide and welcoming. “Y’know, it’s rude to stare,” Applejack teased as Dash approached. “Just wanted to make things less awkward for ya.” Rainbow Dash felt her cheeks warm. “Sorry, AJ. I, uh, was just... zoning out.” Applejack chuckled, brushing some dirt off her foreleg. “Well, come on then. I’ve got a spot where we can have some peace and quiet.” Dash’s ears perked up at the thought. “Finally! I thought we’d be stuck around all these other ponies forever. Let’s go!” Applejack smirked at Rainbow Dash’s enthusiasm. “You’re excited, huh?” Dash nodded, and the two trotted off together, making their way behind the barn to a secluded spot. It was quiet there, with only the sound of the breeze rustling through the apple trees. The conversation started light, with casual jokes and stories, but as time went on, their words grew softer. Applejack leaned slightly closer, her emerald eyes shining with warmth. “What pretty eyes ya have, RD,” Applejack said suddenly, her voice carrying a hint of teasing but also something deeper. Rainbow Dash’s breath hitched. Her usual bravado crumbled under Applejack’s gaze, and she hated how easily the earth pony could fluster her. Applejack always seemed to know her weak spots. Their faces were so close now that Rainbow Dash could feel the faint heat radiating from Applejack’s cheeks. The world around them seemed to fade, the only thing that mattered being the small distance that still separated them. Just as they began to lean closer, a familiar voice cut through the moment like a thunderclap. “Sis, ya back here? I just thought I’d tell... you... am I interruptin’ somethin’?” Both ponies froze, their eyes snapping to Apple Bloom, who stood a few feet away with wide, curious eyes. Quickly, they shuffled away from each other, their faces matching the hue of the ripest apples in the orchard. “Nope, nothin’s up!” Applejack said, her voice a little too loud. “Whatcha need, lil sis?” Apple Bloom blinked, clearly unconvinced. “I- I think I forgot. I’ll leave y’all to it, I guess.” She turned and trotted away, casting one last curious glance over her shoulder before disappearing around the corner of the barn. Applejack groaned, dragging her hat down over her face. “Er, sorry about that. Apple Bloom’s got the worst timin’, I swear.” Rainbow Dash managed a weak smile, but her earlier confidence was gone. “I- It’s fine. Don’t worry about it.” She took a step back, her wings fidgeting. “I should probably get going, though. See you around, AJ.” Applejack reached out a hoof, her voice tinged with concern. “Wait, Dashie, please don’t go—” But Rainbow Dash was already in the air, her wings carrying her away before Applejack could finish her sentence. Applejack watched her fly off, the sinking feeling in her chest growing heavier with each second. She sighed deeply, pulling her hat off and clutching it tightly. Why can’t things ever just go smoothly? For the rest of the evening, Applejack tried to busy herself with work, but her mind kept drifting back to Rainbow Dash—the way her eyes had looked, the way her voice had sounded when she said she was leaving. Applejack felt a pang of guilt. She should have said more, done more, to stop her from leaving. Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash flew aimlessly above Ponyville, the wind whipping through her mane. Her chest ached in a way she didn’t fully understand. Why did I leave like that? Why couldn’t I just stay? She landed on a cloud, flopping onto her back and staring up at the stars as they began to peek out from the twilight sky. “Great job, Dash,” she muttered to herself. “You had a moment, and you blew it.” But even as she lay there, replaying the day in her mind, one thought kept surfacing: I’ve got to make this right. Author's Note My sibling despises Apple Bloom, so I like to tease her with appearances within my stories cause she likes to read them. Thought this would be good 😈
Chapter 5: Finding the WordsApplejack sat beneath the shade of an old apple tree, her hat pulled low over her face, shielding her emotions from the world. The evening sun cast long shadows across the orchard, but the warmth of the day did little to thaw the chill that had settled in her chest. She replayed the encounter in her mind, her frustration mounting with every passing moment. She knew Apple Bloom hadn’t meant to interrupt, but the intrusion had been poorly timed, to say the least. Worse yet, Applejack couldn’t help but feel angry at herself. Why didn’t I pick a better spot? she thought bitterly, kicking a small rock with her hoof. Why couldn’t I just say somethin’ sooner? Her thoughts drifted to Rainbow Dash’s flustered expression, the way her cheeks turned pink whenever Applejack teased her. She couldn’t help but smile at the memory, even as it made her chest ache. She was so close, Applejack thought, pulling her hat lower. I was so close. But now… She sighed heavily, her frustration giving way to regret. I’ve gotta find the right words to fix this. High above Ponyville, Rainbow Dash sped through the sky, her wings beating furiously as she tried to outrun the storm of emotions swirling inside her. She darted between clouds, her mane streaming behind her like a streak of color against the darkening sky. Her thoughts raced just as fast as her body. Why did I leave like that? she berated herself. Why couldn’t I just stay and act cool for once? She imagined the look on Applejack’s face—confused, maybe even hurt. The thought made her chest tighten painfully. She probably thinks I’m an idiot, Rainbow Dash thought, biting her lip. Or worse, she hates me now. The idea was unbearable. Applejack’s opinion mattered more to her than she wanted to admit, even to herself. Dash landed on a remote hill just outside Ponyville, her hooves sinking into the soft grass. She flopped onto her back, staring up at the first stars of the evening. Why does this have to be so hard? she wondered, pressing a hoof to her forehead. I’ve faced dragons, changelings, and Nightmare Moon, and none of that was this scary. The truth gnawed at her, but she couldn’t deny it anymore: Applejack was different. Special. And somewhere along the way, Rainbow Dash had stopped seeing her as just a friend. But now, Dash had messed things up. She could still see the disappointment in Applejack’s eyes, even though she had flown off before AJ could say anything. I need to apologize, Dash thought, sitting up abruptly. I need to tell her how I feel. But what if it’s too late? What if I blew it? She groaned, flopping back onto the grass. “Get it together, Dash,” she muttered to herself. “You’ve gotta find the words.” Applejack, meanwhile, had retreated to the barn. She paced back and forth, the familiar surroundings offering little comfort. She thought about the way Rainbow Dash had looked at her earlier, the slight hesitation in her movements, the vulnerability she rarely showed. Why’d she have to fly off like that? Applejack wondered, frustration bubbling up again. Was I too forward? Did I scare her off? She leaned against the barn door, her head resting on the cool wood. For all her strength and resilience, matters of the heart left her feeling unsure and exposed. She knew she couldn’t let things stay like this. She cared about Rainbow Dash too much to let a misunderstanding or poorly timed interruption ruin everything. I just need to talk to her, Applejack decided. But what do I say? How do I make her understand? That night, Rainbow Dash couldn’t sleep. She tossed and turned on her cloud bed, her mind racing with half-formed sentences and imaginary scenarios. She tried to imagine how Applejack might react to an apology. She’ll probably laugh at me, Dash thought, groaning. Or worse, she won’t believe me. But as much as the fear of rejection gnawed at her, the thought of leaving things unresolved was even worse. The next morning, Applejack rose with the sun, determined to set things right. She went about her chores mechanically, her mind elsewhere. She rehearsed what she might say, but no matter how she phrased it, the words felt clumsy and inadequate. Rainbow Dash, on the other hand, took her time getting up. She wasn’t ready to face Applejack yet, but she knew she couldn’t avoid her forever. Maybe I’ll fly by the farm later, she told herself. See if I can work up the nerve. But as fate would have it, their paths crossed sooner than either of them expected. Applejack was hauling a cart of apples toward town when she spotted a familiar streak of rainbow in the sky. She stopped in her tracks, her heart skipping a beat as Dash descended, landing a few feet away. They stood in awkward silence for a moment, both unsure of where to begin. “Hey, AJ,” Dash said finally, her voice quieter than usual. “Hey, Dashie,” Applejack replied, her tone equally soft. They stared at each other, the weight of unspoken words hanging heavily between them. Finally, Rainbow Dash took a deep breath and said, “Look, about yesterday… I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have flown off like that. I just… I didn’t know what to say.” Applejack nodded slowly, her green eyes searching Dash’s face. “I get it,” she said. “I’ve been beatin’ myself up, thinkin’ I messed it all up too.” Rainbow Dash blinked. “You? Messed up? No way.” Applejack smiled faintly. “We both coulda handled it better, I reckon.” There was a pause before Dash asked, “So… are we good?” Applejack stepped closer, her smile widening. “We’re better than good, Dashie. But we’ve still got plenty to talk about.” Rainbow Dash grinned. “Yeah. Let’s talk.”
Chapter 6: Making AmendsRainbow Dash exhaled a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding. Relief washed over her, but her heart still raced in her chest, as though it was trying to break free. For a moment, she had truly believed she had ruined everything with Applejack. Yet here they were, walking side by side, heading toward a secluded spot that Applejack promised would be perfect for a private talk. The path they took wound through the outskirts of Sweet Apple Acres and into the quiet forest beyond. It was a hidden nook, shielded by a massive tree whose roots curled up from the ground to create a small, natural alcove. Rainbow Dash looked around, impressed. “Wow, AJ. You’ve been holding out on me. This place is awesome.” Applejack chuckled. “Figured you’d like it. Nice and quiet. Perfect for... talkin’.” Dash raised an eyebrow but said nothing. They settled down under the roots, the soft hum of crickets filling the air around them. For a while, they bantered lightly, their conversation filled with teasing remarks and easy laughter. It felt natural, but both mares knew it was only a prelude to something deeper. As the sunlight began to fade, painting the sky in hues of gold and pink, the atmosphere shifted. The air between them grew heavy, charged with unspoken emotions. Rainbow Dash caught herself glancing at Applejack more often, her heart skipping a beat each time their eyes met. Applejack seemed to notice. She tilted her head, her emerald gaze steady and warm. “Dashie, can I ask ya somethin’?” Rainbow Dash swallowed hard. “Uh, yeah. Sure.” Applejack hesitated, her cheeks tinged with pink. “When ya ran off the other day... what were ya thinkin’? Be honest with me, sugarcube.” Dash rubbed the back of her neck, her wings twitching nervously. “I... I thought I messed everything up. I thought you’d never want to see me again.” Applejack’s expression softened, and she leaned closer. “Dash, that ain’t true. I was hurt, sure, but... I’ve been thinkin’ about you nonstop since then.” Rainbow Dash blinked, her breath catching. “Y-You have?” Applejack nodded. “You’re somethin’ special to me, Dashie. And I don’t wanna mess this up, neither.” The sun dipped lower on the horizon, its last rays casting a golden glow over the two mares. Rainbow Dash felt her chest tighten, but this time, it wasn’t fear—it was hope. Their eyes locked, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. Applejack leaned in first, her movements slow and deliberate, giving Rainbow Dash every chance to pull away. But Dash didn’t. Instead, she closed the gap, her heart pounding as their lips met. The kiss was soft at first, hesitant and unsure, but it quickly deepened as they melted into each other. Rainbow Dash felt a warmth spread through her, chasing away all her doubts and fears. Applejack’s hat slipped off, forgotten in the moment, as her hoof gently rested on Dash’s cheek. When they finally pulled apart, they were both breathless, their cheeks flushed. Applejack chuckled nervously, brushing a strand of her mane out of her face. “Heh, that was... somethin’.” Rainbow Dash flopped backward onto the ground, her wings splayed out as she tried to regain her composure. Her face was as red as the apples in Applejack’s orchard. “Yeah... somethin’,” she murmured, a dazed smile on her lips. Applejack laughed, the sound light and genuine. She stood, picking up her hat and dusting it off. “Well, I reckon I should head back before Apple Bloom comes lookin’ for me again. But, Dashie... let’s do this again soon, alright?” Rainbow Dash propped herself up on her elbows, her grin widening. “Yeah. Definitely.” As Applejack trotted off, her silhouette illuminated by the fading light, Rainbow Dash stayed behind, lying under the tree as the stars began to appear. Her mind replayed the kiss over and over, her heart swelling with a feeling she was only beginning to understand. She didn’t know how long she stayed there, staring up at the night sky, but for the first time in a long while, she felt at peace. And for Rainbow Dash, peace was a rare and wonderful thing.
