The Best things are a Rarity

by mlpserenity

Rating: teen
Tags: Slice of Life, Applejack, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Rarity, Romance
Length: 12925

Rarity and Applejack have been married for over 2 years, but what's this? Rarity is pregnant?

Rarity and Applejack have been married for over 2 years, but what's this? Rarity is pregnant? - Rest assured, I love this ship too much so I didn't make this warrant a "Sad" category. Also, "Alternate Universe" is for lack of twilicorn.

This is my first fanfic. No proofreader, but I will try my best.

Published 2013-03-02 16:00:02 UTC
Last updated 2014-04-07 15:23:41 UTC

Spring begins, Romance continues

With flowers beginning to take bloom, Celestia's sun showering the land with its warm rays and animals frolicking about, Rarity knew it was the beginning of spring indeed. Winter Wrap-Up had occurred the day before and she was very proud of herself as she watched the birds chirping happily in their new homes, crafted by yours truly. Moreover she was extremely proud of all the citizens of Ponyville for making this wrap-up of winter go off without a hitch and more importantly on time.

Rarity was trotting over to Sweet Apple Acres with a bounce in her graceful steps. She had spent Hearth's Warming Eve with her parents and sister and had returned only recently. Two days ago in fact, just in time to take part in the wrap-up. Unfortunately, to her at least, this meant she only had time to unpack and sleep before being whisked away to help, which she did so with great pride as a citizen of Ponyville. She had hardly any time to relax or more importantly, to spend time with her wife of two years, Applejack. Although she was used to being away from her for long periods of time, what with both of them being very busy with their businesses, she still longed to see her face, to hear her beautiful laugh and to feel her gentle touch.

As the Apple Family home became visible through the trees, Rarity began to speed up her pace just a bit, the though of being able to be with Applejack again giving her urgency. She had chosen to come by early in the afternoon because she knew that, for a couple of days at least, the farm would still be letting the trees recover from winter and as such, Applejack would have large amounts of free time. Time that Rarity was not going to let go to waste.

Rarity could see Granny Smith sleeping on her rocking chair on the porch. She could still vividly remember when the kind elder mare had given her and Applejack approval of their relationship. Rarity had teared up, but Applejack had spewed gushes as she hugged her grandmother and repeated, "Thank You", between joyful sobs.

Applejack came into view, coming from the east field, pulling along a cart filled with broken and dry looking branches. Applejack had told her once that it was the wood they used for kindling throughout the year. She was wearing the scarf Rarity had made her for Hearth's Warming last year along with a vest and of course, her beloved stetson.

There and then, Rarity decided she wanted to be a little mischievous and surprise her lover. She rushed over to the door and whispered to Granny Smith, "Sorry to intrude kind madam." She knew that even when being playful, you must never forget to be a proper mare. Quickly, she rushed inside and upstairs, ever vigilant of the others of the Apple family as she tiptoed through the door marked 'Applejack'.

While inside the room, Rarity began to wonder where she would hide and more importantly, how to make her appearance. Although Applejack frequently enjoyed pranking around with Pinkie and Rainbow Dash, she was never one to enjoy being on the other end of them. As she heard footsteps coming up the hallway, she had to think quick and thus, she decided the closet would do. Applejack came in, took off her vest and threw it at the hamper, but missed, allowing the vest to settle on the floor.

"Really Applejack, you could put some care into how you treat your clothing", sighed Rarity quietly. Then, as if Applejack had heard her small plea, the stetson and scarf were put, with great care, onto the coat rack. Rarity knew the stetson was precious, what with it being given to Applejack by her late parents. A tear began to form in the corners of Rarity's eyes as the though that Applejack treasured her gift just as much graced her mind.

Distracted by the sweet act, she failed to notice Applejack coming to the closet. Rarity reacted, but too late. As Applejack opened the doors, Rarity fell over, having lost what she had been leaning on.

"What 'n tarnation?!" Applejack was recovering from her sudden fall and wondered why something so heavy was in her closet. Didn't take long to realize that it wasn't a "what" but rather a "who".

"Rarity? What were yall doing in mah closet?", asked a confused and slightly annoyed Applejack.

"Oh, hello darling. I was attempting to surprise you with the sight of your beautiful Rarity", Rarity batted her eyelashes and looked at Applejack, who cocked an eyebrow, "and it appears I have succeeded".

Getting up, Applejack answered, "Coulda just came in like ya normally do. Either way, I'm happy tah see ya Rarity." Applejack leaned in and planted a kiss onto Rarity's welcoming lips.

Separating from Applejack, Rarity happily proclaimed, "I come bearing gifts for for you my sweet and for your family as well."

"Aww shucks. Ya didn't have tah do that Rares."

"Nonsense, I always bring gifts for those I love on Hearth's Warming Eve. Sadly though, these come a bit late, on the count of me being away for the holidays, but rest assured the feeling remains strong."

"Rarity, ah don't deserve a mare like you." After giving Rarity one last kiss on the cheek, Applejack took Rarity's hoof and led her downstairs to meet the rest of the family.

They welcomed her as always and so began small talk as she distributed the gifts to their recipients. Applebloom squeed as she opened hers to find a small fortune in turquoise gems.

"A little birdie told me that you have a crush on a certain little purple dragon and I'm sure he would love these and, more importantly, the one who gives them to him", Rarity said with a wink. "Do stagger them out though dear. We do not want him to have another one of his greed episodes."

Applebloom ran up to Rarity and gave her the biggest hug she could muster. "Thank you Rarity, thank you thank you thank you", she excitedly repeated.

"You can thank me by letting me see you two holding hoof and claw during Hearts and Hooves Day", Rarity smiled.

"Rarity that was very thoughtful", Applejack said as she hugged Rarity.

"Oh, you know how I love to see love blossom and those two would look adorable together", Rarity hugged back.

Hours passed, with telling of the how everyone's holidays went. Applebloom had long ago retired to her room, still holding the gems in her hooves. It was too cute for words. Granny Smith had come and gone from her naps, but this one looked like the last one for the day. Big Macintosh announced he was tired and was off to bed, leaving only Applejack and Rarity alone.

Rarity leaned her head onto Applejack's shoulder. "I missed you", said Rarity while looking at the fire place and remembering all the time they had spent like this. Sitting next to each other, watching life pass by, with every moment being memorable from simply having each other. Rarity couldn't help but smile, with a small tear of joy forming in the corner of her eye.

Applejack answered in kind by pulling Rarity closer by the shoulder and gently placing her head on top of Rarity's, "I missed you to sugarcube."

For a few minutes, they simply enjoyed the warmth of each other and the fire. Then Applejack softly kissed Rarity on her forehead and whispered into her ear, "The night don't have tah end yet", with a playful, suggestive tone.

Rarity, who appeared to be taken back by what Applejack had said, responded, Why Applejack" with a tone that she suggested she was appalled, but quickly added in a tone similar to Applejack's, "I thought you would never ask."

Applejack got up, leading Rarity to her room with a quick pace. As she opened the door, Rarity rushed in and threw herself onto the bed with a 'thump'. "C'mon Rares, ya know we can't make too much noise. Mah sister and brother's rooms ain't too far away", Applejack whispered loudly.

Rarity grinned slyly, "I figured you would say that dear, so, with the help of Twilight, I found and learned a spell to cancel noise being emitted from a room."

"Really?", inquired Applejack with a raised eyebrow and a skeptical look.

Rarity's horn began to glow and a small wave of blue magic swept across the floor, walls and ceiling and then dissipated. "Yes, really. Now get over here and take me Applejack Apple", Rarity announced sensually while batting her eyelashes.

Applejack climbed onto the bed on top of Rarity and began to kiss her while wrapping her forelegs around Rarity. Rarity did the same around Applejack's neck. Applejack pulled away after a few seconds of this, smiled and said, "I love you Rarity." Rarity smiled back and looked into the eyes of her lover, "I love you to Applejack."

For the next few hours, they dedicated their entire existence to making each other happy. To them, for a while at least, they were the only ponies in the entire world.

Good news......I think

One week after their reunion, things had returned to normal, well normal for Rarity and Applejack. With both of their careers requiring large time commitments, these romantic get togethers did not happen too often, but to Rarity, that only made the few times they did occur that much more special.

With the town getting back into the swing of things, so to did the Carousel Boutique. This morning, however, was proving to not be a pleasant one when Rarity's wake up call was not in the form of her nightstand mounted clock, but rather her stomach threatening to expel its contents over her silken bedsheets and covers. With great alarm, she rushed into her bathroom, got onto her knees, leaned her head over the toilet and vomited, making sure to use her magic to keep her hair out of the way. In her rush, she failed to notice that her little sister, Sweetie Belle, was also in the bathroom, getting ready to go to school.

"Rarity, are you okay?", asked her rather concerned sister.

"I'm fine Sweetie. I guess something that didn't sit quite well with me last night decided until now to take action", Rarity responded while going over to the sink to rinse out her mouth.

"Maybe you should go see the doctor."

"I'm sure it's nothing. Now hurry along, you don't want to be late for school."

"Mmmmmm...okay", grumbled the little filly as she left for school.

"Have a nice day Sweetie", Rarity managed to yell before she heard the front door close.

She didn't really know know why she suddenly vomited so early in the morning, but she paid it no mind. Nothing was going to spoil her lunch date with Applejack.

"Oh, that reminds me." She looked over at the clock. "Thank goodness I still have plenty of time."

The rest of the morning was spent doing her usual routine, which was to clean the house, pretty herself up, and make sure to groom Opalescence, that is when she ever let her. She then moved on to her kitchen to begin cooking up her meal for her and Applejack. She had planned a small picnic for them to enjoy a little alone time together before work would inevitably separate them again.

She packed up the food, a large blanket and a bottle of her 'good' wine into her basket. Off she was to Sweet Apple Acres, with lunch in tow and a spring in her step.

"Sweet Celestia, yah really outdone yourself this time Rarity."

In front of Applejack was not a lunch, but a feast. Three salad bowls with a variety of greens, carrots, berries, nuts and loads more to make a salad that was all your fantasies come to life. Three plates covered in foil contained cherry fritters, apple fritters and some chocolate lover's cupcakes, Applejack's favorites. Finally, to wash it all down, a bottle of what looked to be rather 'fancy' wine.

"I believe that even something as simple as a meal should be special in its presentation", Rarity proclaimed as she uncorked the wine.

"Rares, anything you make for me is special ", Applejack said quietly while a light blush crept onto her cheeks. Applejack was never much for the sappy stuff, but when it was just her and Rarity, she knew she could do so without ridicule.

"Anything for you my dearest", Rarity said flirtatiously as she leaned in and gave Applejack a light peck on her lips. She loved to tease.

A little over an hour passed with them talking about their businesses and how successful they were, but mainly how time consuming it all was. From that, the crusaders antics and phenomena that seemed to always find a way into Ponyville, time was precious. They knew that and didn't spend it, but rather cherished it as it flew by.

Rarity began to feel her stomach making the same threats as in the morning, so she began to excuse herself, "Excuse me Applejack I think I have to..", but she couldn't finish before she had to cover her mouth and rush away before she ruined their meal.

Applejack rushed after her, concerned. Rarity had stopped behind a tree and Applejack turned away as she saw her vomiting. "Rarity you okay?"

"It's nothing Applejack."

"You're vomiting. That ain't nothin'. Are yah sick?"

"No need for concern. It's only the second time this has happened today so-"

"Second time?! That is definitely not nothin'. C'mon, I'm takin' you to the doctor."

"But Applejack-"

"But nothin'."

After helping Rarity up and packing away the picnic, they dropped off the basket at Applejack's house and left for the hospital.

When they arrived, Rarity explained to Nurse Redheart what was going on. Redheart told Rarity that they would have to run some tests to figure out the problem and lead Rarity away into the lab. Applejack was unfortunately told she would have to wait, but she did, ever concerned for her wife's health.

About an hours passed, but it felt like an eternity for Applejack as her mind began to plague her with the worst outcomes. Her agony was slightly relieved when she saw Rarity coming down the hallway. "How'd it go?"

"They just ran some tests. They said they would have the results in about thirty minutes. If you wouldn't mind waiting..."

"Course ah wouldn't, sugarcube."

They sat holding hooves in silence until the doctor came and told them he had the test results. They followed him into his office and sat down worriedly. "What's wrong with me doctor", asked a slightly frightened Rarity.

"I have good news..... I think."

"Yah think?"

"Well there is no way to put this delicately, so here it is. Rarity is pregnant."

"I'm..I'm..I'm p-preg-"

"Pregnant?!", Applejack yelled while slamming her hooves on the table. "Doc I think your testing machines are a bit outdated. Ain't no way Rarity is pregnant."

"I'm sorry Applejack, we even ran the test twice and checked the results three times. She is indeed pregnant."

Silence filled the room for bit before being broken, by sobs from Applejack. "How could yah do this to me Rarity?!"

Rarity gasped as she figured out what the implication was. "I would never do that to you Applejack", answered Rarity with a look of fear and concern on her face.

Applejack shot up from her seat, "Oh yeah?! Tell that to the foal growin in your stomach!". With that, she bolted out of the room and the hospital, leaving behind a confused and shocked Rarity.

I'm pregnant. I'm going to have a child. I'm going to be a mother. These were the thoughts that ran through her head at first, but not for long. Applejack. What am i going to do? Her heart was telling her to rush after her wife to try and comfort her, but the rational part of her said no. I can't just go after her. She's furious and without proof, although my words alone should be proof enough, it will only get worse if I go see her now. I have to find out how and why this has happened and I know just the pony to help me. Twilight.

A friend in need indeed

The walk to the library took an eternity, to Rarity's mind at least. Every couple of paces, she would begin to reconsider going to see Applejack. To console her, to hold in her embrace, to show her how truly loyal to her and only her she was. Alas, the image of Applejack crying, a look of utter betrayal on her face, had embedded itself into the back of Rarity's eyelids and was beginning cause tears of her own. However, she knew that a little time was the best thing for both of them right now. Time for Applejack to have to herself, but more importantly time for Rarity to figure out how her pregnancy had come about.

It was late into the afternoon. Something Rarity was thankful for since she didn't want to have to show her face to the townsfolk. Not because they would simply speculate, but because they would actually offer to help her. She really didn't want this to be know to too many people just yet.

The library had only recently closed it's doors for the day, but she knew Twilight would welcome anyone in who needed a helpful hand or an ear to listen. Rarity knocked on the door and Twilight answered, "Sorry, the library is closed for the day. Returns can be dropped into the chute on the left. Carefully, if you wouldn't mind."

"It's Rarity. May I come in?"

Rarity tried her best to hide the sorrow in her voice. When Twilight opened the door, she knew she hadn't done very well. The concerned look on Twilight's face told her so. "What's wrong Rarity? Did something happen ", Twilight asked while escorting Rarity inside to have a seat. Rarity remained quiet for a moment, still trying to figure out the best way to word the situation. "Can I get you something to drink? Some tea perhaps? ", asked Twilight, trying to ease Rarity into talking.

"No thank you dear."

When Twilight finally sat down herself, Rarity began, "Twilight, Applejack and I went to the hospital this afternoon."

The word hospital didn't imply anything good to Twilight, especially given Rarity's behavior. "Are you or Applejack hurt?", Twilight quickly interjected, already fearing the worst.

"No. I had slight nausea this morning and at lunch, so Applejack insisted we go to the hospital, ever the worrywart." Rarity couldn't help but smile for a second before continuing, "The doctor said that I am... pregnant."

Silence betook the room once again for a few seconds, then Twilight leaned forward, grabbed Rarity's hooves and gave her a huge smile, "Congratulations!." She mentally scolded herself for screaming, but she shushed the voice because she was just really happy for a friend.

The smile and joy didn't last too long as her mind began to connect the dots. Rarity is here, clearly sad and distraught. She is here alone, without Applejack. Applejack...

"Rarity?", Twilight gasped a in shock as it all came together, "Did you have an affair?"

Rarity's eyes went wide. Her loyalty and love for Applejack had been doubted for the second time that day. "Twilight. How could you even think that I would ever do such a thing to Applejack?", she wailed as tears began to roll down her face. Do they all think what I feel for Applejack is superficial?

Unsure of what course of action to take Twilight simply inquired, "But you and Applejack are both mares. How else is this possible?"

Rarity looked at Twilight with watering eyes, "I love Applejack. I would never even dream of hurting her. She was my first true love and she will be my only."

"So.....you didn't cheat on Applejack?"

"No!", Rarity screamed while continuing to cry.

Twilight sighed deeply, "I believe you Rarity."

Rarity looked up, almost in disbelief, "Y-y-you do?"

"Yes. In case you forgot, I was an attendee of yours and Applejack's wedding. I was truly proud to be your mare of honor. More importantly though, I was there when you and Applejack exchanged vows. There wasn't a single dry eye in the room, not the Princesses and certainly not you and Applejack." Twilight smiled, remembering that day. "I, as well as everybody else who attended, saw that what you and her have is something really special. It's true love."

At that point, even if only for a few seconds, some of the tears Rarity shed were of joy, as she remembered the day she and Applejack got married. The tears of joy that Applejack shed when Rarity told her and the whole world how much she truly meant to her. The smile on Applejack's face when she said, "I do". The happiest day of her life. "Thank you Twilight."

Twilight nodded and gave Rarity a few moments to relax herself before continuing. "So if you weren't unfaithful, how could this have happened?"

"That's the reason I came to you first, Twilight. I was hoping that you or your library would hold the answers to that one."

"Let's find out."

Twilight began to levitate a few books to hers and Rarity's side. "These are all the books I have on reproduction and parenting."

"Sounds like just the place to start", Rarity said as she began to pick up a book and begin looking for the answers she and Applejack needed.

After a little over two hours of skimming through about thirty books, Twilight announced, "I'm sorry Rarity. I don't think there is anything about your situation in any of these books." Feeling defeated, she closed her eyes and sulked as Rarity began to fear the worst for her and Applejack's relationship.

After a while, Twilight's eyes shot open as she though of the last bastion of hope that they had. "We could ask Princess Celestia."

Rarity nodded and Twilight levitated a scroll, some ink and a quill to her and began writing,

Dear Princess Celestia,

Rarity and I are lost and we need your guidance and knowledge. Rarity found out today that she is pregnant. I dismissed the obvious thought that Rarity simply cheated on Applejack. I dismiss it because I trust Rarity and more importantly, I know that her love for Applejack is true and infinite. If she says that she has remained and will always remain faithful, then I believe her. However, this still leaves the main question unanswered. How is it that Rarity became pregnant? I have looked through every book that I posses on the matter of pregnancy, child rearing, and reproduction in general.

I hope that you will have insight into this and we await your response. I'm sorry to sound urgent, but I believe a marriage is at stake.

Your faithful student and your faithful subject,

Twilight Sparkle and Rarity Apple

Twilight read the letter to Rarity and she approved its contents.

Since Spike was with the crusaders having a sleep over at Scootaloo's place, Twilight sent the letter via her own magic.

"Rarity I'm sorry, but it is late. I don't think the Princess will be able to find information on this much less send a letter in response tonight. I'm sure you've had a long day and you should go home and get some rest."

Rarity nodded in agreement, "Yes, it has been a trying day". Oh Applejack, I'm sorry you are going through this, but don't worry. I'm sure the Princess will have the answers we need. Though she wanted very badly to believe her own thoughts, she still feared the worst.

Rarity got up to leave and Twilight joined her. At the door Twilight asked, "Do you need me to take you home?", still worried for Rarity and wanting to help her as much as she could through this.

"That's very kind of you, but I think I can manage.Thank you Twilight, for everything."

"Of course Rarity. Anytime."

"You are a true friend." They hugged and then Rarity was off towards home. When she reached her door, she noticed the sign on her door, 'Out for lunch'. The fact that she had lost business for an entire day meant nothing to her at the moment. As she trudged upstairs to her bedroom, the entire day's events replayed in her mind. Applejack was the only thing that occupied her mind as she got into bed. Although it was a warm night, she pulled the covers over her. The thought of losing Applejack made the entire world seem colder.

Author's Note

Yes, I sent spike and the crusaders away because I'm lazy. Sorry :(

Follow your heart

Applejack ran through town towards her home after her and Rarity had been given the news. To onlookers, she simply looked to be in a rush. Because of her speed living up to the name of 'Most Athletic', ponies could not see the tears running down her face. She would not have cared either way. Her only goal at the moment was to get home, to be inside her room and to be alone.

The event at the hospital replayed in her mind, torturing her and not letting the tears stop.

"Well there is no way to put this delicately, so here it is. Rarity is pregnant."

Rarity is pregnant? Oh my gosh! She's gona be a mom... wait a minute!! Applejack's joy for her partner lasted a mere second before it was replaced with confusion and anger.

"Pregnant?! Doc I think your testing machines are a bit outdated. Ain't no way Rarity is pregnant." How dare he. How dare he say that. I would have never thought Dr.Price would have such a cruel sense of humor.

"I'm sorry Applejack, we even ran the test twice and checked the results three times. She is indeed pregnant."

Hang on a minute there AJ. You've been coming to this here hospital all your life. You and your family have trusted this place, and Dr.Price in particular, for years. Applejack saw his face. It didn't have the annoying grin of a jokester, but rather the concerned face of a friend.

Rarity is pregnant. With child. The tears began to trickle out of her eyes. Sadness engulfed her mind, Why Rarity? Why would ya do this? , and finally, the feeling of betrayal began to dominate. "How could yah do this to me Rarity?"

"I would never do that to you Applejack."

Applejack saw the look of worry and concern that she had expected, but it did not matter. The proof was there. It was right there, "Oh yeah?! Tell that to the foal growin in your stomach!"

I can't be here right now. Not with her. I.... I.... I have to go. I have to get out of here. Her legs obeyed and she left the room and the hospital altogether heading for home.

Applejack's home was coming into view and she was closing in fast. Mac saw her running towards the house, "Applejack?"

Applejack didn't hear him.

She opened the front door and slammed it shut, without realizing she did so, when she got inside.

"Applejack Apple! What in tarnation are yah slammin' doors fer?", yelled Granny Smith, her nap having been interrupted by the homecoming of her eldest granddaughter.

Applejack didn't hear her as she went upstairs.

"Applejack?" ,Granny asked, her voice becoming softer when she saw the tears on Applejack's face.

Applejack ran into her room, shut the door and threw herself onto the bed. She grabbed a pillow and screamed into it as loud as she could, still crying.

Mac ran into the house, What's wrong with AJ?"

Granny answered, her face long with worry, "Ah don't know. Can't be good though. Ah ain't seen Applejack cry like that since... well... since ah lost my children and yall lost your parents." She got up out of her chair and moved towards the kitchen.

Mac looked down for a moment, remembering how the loss of their parents had been harsh for him and his sister. Applebloom had barely been over a month old when it happened. AJ shut herself up for two weeks and didn't talk to anypony during that time.

"I'm gona go and check up on her."

"You go do that, Mac. Ah'll... just start up dinner then. I guess."

Mac couldn't help but feel bad for his granny. She had been with them from that start and raised them since their parents passed. He knew that she wanted to be by Applejack's side right now more than anyone. Sadly she couldn't really climb the stairs anymore. Her body wouldn't allow it, but Mac knew she would have been the first one up there if she could.

As Mac approached Applejack's room, he began to hear her quiet sobs. The sound forced him to slow down his pace a bit, but still made it to the door, "AJ, what's wrong?"

"Leave me alone Mac", Applejack's voice barely audible through the sobs.

"AJ, please."

"Go away", her voice becoming firmer and more raspy.

"Applejack, we're worried about you."

"Leave me alone! I don't want to talk to anypony right now!"

Mac decided not to push it any further. With much sorrow, he restrained himself and went back downstairs to help Granny.

Maybe there's still a chance. Wha-what if the doc's tests were wrong after all?

C'mon AJ. I think you know that the chances of that are very low.

You're right He's a smart guy. He knows what he's doing. I think he knew how hard it would be when he told us. I could see in his face that he knew what it would imply that Rarity had done. Rarity........

Was it me? Could I not give her pleasure in..... that area? Maybe..... maybe she got too lonely when we were apart for a while. Maybe she got tired of being with a mare. Maybe she never actually wanted to be with one.

With that though, she glanced over towards the picture on the wall next to the scarf Rarity had made for her. It was a picture from their wedding. It was her and Rarity's family, their friends and of course the happy newlyweds. Rarity had insisted she need to clean up before the photo shoot. The tears from the ceremony and smeared her mascara. Although she had told Rarity it was good enough, she secretly was glad that Rarity had. Every mare wants to have their wedding photo be perfect.

She was definitely happy on that day. What happened? What changed?

She couldn't remember a happier memory, except for the one that stood on her nightstand. The one she would wake up to every morning and smile. She had made more copies of this one than even the wedding photos. It was her most treasured memory of Rarity.

The carnival had been in town. She had taken the Crusaders and Spike there once already but it had been a tiresome experience. Applejack shuddered, "Cotton candy." Even so, she thought it would be a great place to take Rarity for their second date. Although the first had not been complete bust, it had been extremely awkward. They were still getting used to the transition from being friends to being lovers.

Rarity had agreed to the carnival. Overall, the day had been a complete success. From roller coasters to arcade games with dirty carnies, from greasy foods to watered down drinks, it had been fun and Applejack loved to see Rarity smile and laugh. Well everything except the tea cup ride. Applejack got a bit to into spinning the cup and Rarity was queasy for almost and hour afterwards.

At last they came upon the ride Applejack had been planning for the whole day. She knew Rarity loved the cheesy romantic stuff, not that Applejack hated it. She had remembered a scene from one of the books, which Rarity had liked and loaned to her, a scene similar to this one. A stallion took his marefriend to the Ferris wheel and they watched the sun setting from the top of the ride. The sun was indeed beginning to retire for the day, so now was the perfect time. They held each other until the ride reached its peak. When the orange and pink horizon came into view, Rarity gave Applejack a quick peck on the cheek and grabbed her tighter. "This is the most romantic thing anyone has ever done for me. Thank you Applejack."

"Anythin' for you Rares", Applejack responded as she grabbed her marefriend closer.

When the ride finished and they got off, Rarity suggested they pay a visit to the photo booth, "I want to make sure I never forget this day."

The first three were silly photos to let loose a bit. Applejack tickling Rarity, Applejack making funny faces as Rarity face-hoofed and Applejack putting her stetson on unsuspecting Rarity. The fourth was simple hug and smile at the camera. The fifth was the smooching. The sixth and final one was the one Applejack adored above all the others. It was Rarity kissing Applejack on the cheek.

Although the simple hugging one made her smile and the smooching one was more romantic, she kept this one closest to her heart because it let her remember not only her second date with the love of her life, but also what Rarity said once the pictures had finished being taken. The same words that Applejack had used in her vows for Rarity.

"Applejack I do not believe there is or will ever will be another mare or stallion that makes my heart flutter like this. When we embrace, it's as if we were molded perfectly for each other. Every time we kiss, the whole world becomes a much brighter place. I'm sorry that it took so long for us to find each other, but I thank Celestia for the day you asked me to be your special somepony. I love you Applejack."

What changed?

Maybe she wanted to have a family.

We had already planned to adopt.

Maybe she wanted a child from her own blood.

She knew that that was unfortunately not possible if she was with me.

Maybe that finally sunk in about a week ago.

No. No, she wouldn't do that to me.

How can you know for sure?

I've seen her over-dramatic face too many times to count, but that face she made when I told her "I love you" for the first time, the face when we first woke up in the same bed together as a couple, the face when I proposed to her and the face she made when I said "I do", they were all real. They were the face of someone who loved me. The face of my Rarity.

And yet here you are because she is pregnant.

I... I don't know.

Rarity...

"Rarity..."

Author's Note

Sorry it took so long to update. I'll try to do so faster. Also sorry for the name "Dr.Price". I could not think of a good name.

Things happen for a reason

Morning came to the Ponyville Library as it always did, but the alarm clock which had delivered diligent and excellent service for years was being abused today. As much as Twilight hated to admit it, she never could sleep very well if she couldn't hear Spike's snoring, his occasional whimpers, or the sound of him gnawing on his bed, no doubt dreaming of eating barrels of gems. She woke up slamming the alarm clock after a night of little sleep and began to ready herself for the day.

Her morning bagel was interrupted by a scroll poofing into existence in front of her. She saw the royal seal and quickly remembered the events which had transpired the night before. With great urgency, she opened the letter and began reading,

Dearest Twilight and Rarity,

I too would be difficult to persuade into accepting that one whom I consider a friend and wielder of an Element of Harmony would commit infidelity to her significant other. Although Rainbow Dash represents and embodies loyalty, I know that this attribute is also inside all of you and Rarity is no exception.

I have lived many centuries, eons perhaps(I'll have to check my calendar), and have therefore seen the worst, the best, the simple and the strange. Thought what has happened to Rarity is still surprising and noteworthy, you may be surprised to know that this is not only case I have heard of.

A little over two hundred years ago, beliefs and ways of thinking were very much centered around the family and traditional values. I wish I could say that this is one my favorite eras to have lived in. Politeness was the dominant language, chivalry was commonplace, and charity was simply part of one's day, but I still look upon most of it with shame.

The reason for this was that discrimination was rampant. If one did not adhere to values and beliefs of the majority of people, they were ostracized, injured, or worse. A relationship between different species, two stallions, or two mares was extremely taboo and not tolerated. Even though I encouraged you to leave your desk and books to venture out into the world, I am very thankful that you chose to do and continue this in Ponyville and not Canterlot. Sadly, the city that I call home and is revered all across Equestria still stubbornly clings to many of these "traditional" values, particularly the negative ones.

Perhaps unfortunately then, it was in this era that a love between two unicorn mares was born in Manehattan. They kept it secret, but their relationship came under heavy risk of discovery when one of them became engaged, arranged by her parents, to a stallion. This engagement however was ended in a few weeks when it was found that the mare was pregnant. The stallion knew it could not be his since he and her had not yet been intimate.

Thankfully, although her parents were very true believers in traditional values, they loved their daughter more and believed her pleas of innocence and purity. They did however remain curious as to how the pregnancy had occurred and as such, requested the aid of one of the best gynecologists in Canterlot. Although he was usually very strict on which patients he would take, the premise of a mare having a foal without the aid of a stallion intrigued him. Medical science was not as advanced as it is now, so he could confirm her intact hymen, but nothing much on the reason for her pregnancy. They decided to wait until the child was born to figure out where he or she had come from.

About eight months later, a unicorn filly was born and surprise consumed the new mother's face. The filly had the same eyes and mane as her lover. As if by fate, the lover in question came by to check up on her the next day. The parents and the doctor quickly noticed the similarities between the filly and the mare. Backed into a corner, the daughter finally admitted that they were lovers and had been for quite some time. She quickly begged and pleaded to not be shunned, but her fears were put to rest when her parents told her that all they wanted was for her to happy. They still wished for this whole affair to be kept silent and only between those present.

With the features of the two mares prevalent in the filly, the doctor declared he might have an answer to this phenomena. He explained that magic had already been used in the past to 'give' life to inanimate objects, but never yet done to "create" life. Considering that both mares were unicorns, he began to hypothesize that their magic together may have been enough to spark the new life into the mare.

This event and those involved seem to have vanished from memory of all, but thankfully the doctor was a diligent note-keeper. One thing that was not included in his writings was a reason. Why did this magic spark a new life when it did? With this and what has happened to Rarity, I think I can make a reasonable conclusion. The couple centuries ago was at risk of losing each other if the arranged marriage had been allowed to happen. I believe that the child inside of Rarity must have come about as a result of her and Applejack beginning to lose something in their relationship. That fear of possibly losing each other combined with the magic inside Rarity created a life to bring them together once more.

I am sorry, but this is all the insight that I can give into the situation at hand. Perhaps Rarity can fill in the blanks as to the why. I hope for the best and especially hope for Rarity and Applejack's continued marital bliss.

Loving princess,

Celestia

Twilight was thankful that Celestia had also sided with Rarity and even more so that the princess had a somewhat reasonable explanation for the pregnancy. Wow, so Rarity's magic helped create the baby. I wonder if they had intercourse beforehand. Would it be a requirement? Would it be easier to magically create a child if the unicorn mother had much stronger magical energy? Does it have to be the unicorn that has the child? What if.. Stop. I can inquire about this later. First, I have to get this to Rarity asap and try to fix this.

With that in mind, Twilight rushed to the Carousel Boutique. It was still early in the morning, which was why she was surprised at how quickly Rarity answered the door, "Appleja-oh. Good morning Twilight. I thought you were... nevermind. Please come in." Rarity looked like she hadn't slept well. She was slouching with ears drooping and hair still undone.

"Thank you Rarity. I received a response form the Princess."

With this Rarity quickly lifted her head, rushed Twilight and grabbed her shoulders, "And?"

Still surprised by Rarity's assertiveness, "It's good news. She has an explanation for why you are pregnant. Here, read it yourself." She handed Rarity the letter and Rarity was about to begin reading before she stopped.

"Oh dear Twilight, how rude of me. Please have a seat. Would you like some tea? I just made a small pot just before you arrived."

"It's okay Rarity, but yes tea sounds lovely right now."

With that Twilight took her seat at the dining table and Rarity brought her the tea. Rarity sat down with her own cup and began reading the letter. Her face remained the same the whole time she read, extremely focused. When she finished, she put down the letter and took a sip of her tea. "So I created the child myself?"

"Well according to the letter, not really. It was yours and Applejack's feeling for each other that created it. Although the princess said that the baby was created from a fear that you guys might have about losing each other. Was everything okay between you guys before this happened?"

"Why, yes. I cannot think of any negative feelings between us. Although, I guess sometimes I do feel that we don't spend enough time together. I know that Applejack's busy and I fare no better in getting time off, but I wish we could spend more that just a few hours every once in while together."

"I think Applejack feels the same way Rarity. I don't feel right saying this, but when we would get together while you were away, Applejack would always seem less cheerful and would usually be the first to leave with an excuse of work. Maybe it's that feeling that you guys want to be closer that gave you the pregnancy."

"Perhaps you are correct, Twilight. Whatever the case I must go see Applejack immediately."

Twilight took the hint and discarded her cup into the sink. As they were both exiting the boutique, Rarity turned to Twilight, "Again Twilight, I cannot thank you enough for this. You may have saved my and Applejack's relationship", and hugged her.

"Anytime Rarity. I wish you guys the best."

"Thank you."

With that they parted ways, Twilight headed for the library and Rarity to Sweet Apple Acres. So this child is really ours. Mine and Applejack's. We can actually finally be a family. A real family together.

Author's Note

I am a terrible human being. Sorry will not suffice this time. Although undiagnosed, I swear I have ADD. Thankfully though, school has started and I can once again write between classes as I did before. I get too distracted at home.

Trust me

The walk to Sweet Apple Acres was long, but Rarity was in no immediate hurry. She desperately wanted to talk to Applejack, to tell her the good news, to comfort her and put any worries she might have to rest. Sadly Rarity knew that going in without some coherent and planned scenario prepared, she would most likely make matters worse.

I can still barely believe it myself, but I will if it means I can get Applejack back. She sighed. How can I expect her to be satisfied with the explanation from Princess Celestia. She has usually been a skeptic when it came to what magic could do. "Married to a unicorn no less." She pulled the letter out of her bags to read it over again. One thing still stands out and concerns me. The Princess said in the letter that she 'believed' in her reason for this. Was she actually unsure or was she simply not comfortable stating it as a fact from only a tale centuries ago and this situation now.

She knew Applejack was no country bumpkin. She was actually rather intelligent and she could notice the smallest discrepancies quite well. Surely if I caught onto this uncertainty on the Princess' behalf, then Applejack would as well. After all, she probably is not in the most trusting of moods towards me at the moment.

Rarity was very deep in though and as such, failed to notice that she was already closing in on her destination. She came back to reality and hung her head in dread as she approached the front door. She knocked and was greeted by Big Macintosh at the door, "Howdy there Rarity. Boy ya don't know how glad ah am to see ya here."

"Applejack", she said looking at the floor again in shame.

"Eeyup. She came home and went straight to her room. Didn't even come down for dinner last night or breakfast this mornin'. She was... cryin' pretty good last night also. Mind fillin' me in?"

"I am sorry Macintosh. I am the cause and I am here to hopefully make amends. Again, I am very sorry that you had to see her like that. I know that I have broken my promise to you." She started sniffling a bit. "It is inexcusable what I have done."

After Applejack had proposed and Rarity in turn had yelled, "Yes, yes ,yes Applejack! A million times yes!", they then left to tell Applejack's immediate family the great news first. They were happy for the soon to be newlyweds and decided to toast and celebrate the engagement. Later in the festivities, Macintosh pulled her aside for a bit to talk.

"Yes Macintosh?"

"Miss Rarity, ah love my little sisters more than anythin' in this world. Ah knew that someday they would find love and get married so ah mentally prepared myself for this. All ah want for em' is to be happy and safe."

"I understand the feeling Macintosh."

"Ah want ya to promise me that ya will give her happiness for all her days. Ah know the occasional scuffle is inevitable, but promise me that tears of sadness will never stain AJ's face because of yer actions."

"I can assure you, future brother-in-law, that her happiness has been my priority from the moment she asked me to be her special somepony and I accepted."

Macintosh simply stared at her, clearly unsatisfied with her answer.

She sighed, "I, Rarity, solemnly promise to never let tears of sadness stain her beautiful face because of my actions and to make her radiant smile adorn her face as much as my abilities allow."

Macintosh surprised her by pulling her into a great big hug, "Welcome to the family Rarity"

She hugged back, "Thank you."

Macintosh sighed heavily, "Rarity, ah can see from the look on yer face that this has been just as hard for ya as for AJ. If yer here to fix it then", he moved aside and motioned her into the house, "all ah can say is, Why ain't ya up there already?!"

"Thank you Macintosh and again I am truly sorry for this", she said still looking at the floor, unable to meet his eyes.

"Ah know ya are", he said looking away with eyes of both understanding and slight anger.

She walked upstairs, down the hall to the door of Applejack's room and knocked.

"Go away Mac. I told ya ah- "

"It's me Applejack."

"...Rares?"

"Yes. I-"

Before she could finish the door swung open and Applejack appeared, "Ya got some nerve comin' here Rarity."

"Applejack, I know it looked bad back at the hospital, but please you must believe me, I-"

"Ah don't gota to squat for ya right now and ah don't wana hear it." Applejack proceeded to slam the door in Rarity's face , but was stopped by Rarity's hoof on the door.

"Ow."

"Rarity, I'm serious. Move yer hoof. Now!"

"N-no. Applejack please just allow me a moment to-" She had no time to speak as Applejack tried to push the door closed. It took all of Rarity's strength to oppose the Applejack.

"Rarity. Move!"

"Just let me-"

"No! Get-"

"I have proof that I did not cheat on you!"

That seemed to work and Rarity nearly fell over since Applejack eased her push on the door significantly. Her eyes had all but lost their fury, "You do?"

"Yes. I do." She pulled out the letter and floated it over to Applejack, "Here."

"What's this?"

"It's a letter from Princess Celestia. ...Applejack, I was just as lost as you were to this sudden development so I went to see Twilight to try and make some sense out of it. Unfortunately her mental and physical libraries could not help me, so we turned to the Princess. Twilight sent her a letter explaining the situation and this is her response. I just received it this morning."

Applejack brought the letter over to her desk to begin reading it. Rarity followed her in, unsure if Applejack would allow her to, but with no response from Applejack, she took her chances. She sat silently on the bed and watched Applejack read the letter, her eyes scanning back and forth across the page. She had conflicting emotions right now; Fear from the possibility of Applejack dismissing the letter and not forgiving her and hopefulness from the chance that Applejack would believe the letter, as she did, and give her forgiveness.

Applejack finished reading the letter and turned to Rarity, still looking away slightly, with an unsure expression on her face. They remained like this, awkwardly staring and not staring at each other, for a few seconds until Applejack spoke first, "So the baby just poofed into ya with magic?"

"Well I guess technically yes, but Applejack, the important thing here is that I did not conceive the child with a stallion. I have this baby inside me because of you. Because you and I love each other."

"Guess this is still kinda weird fer me, but you were tellin' the truth huh?"

"Yes Applejack I was, but I can understand why-"

She was cut off by Applejack lunging forward, pushing her onto the bed with a tight hug. Tears began streaming down here face, "I'm sorry Rarity. I really am."

"It's okay darling."

"No. It ain't okay. Ah shoulda believed ya. Ah wanted to."

"Applejack", she sighed sadly.

"Ah really did Rares, Ah wanted to believe ya, b-but everythin' kept tellin' me ah couldn't. I was stupid. Can ya forgive me Rarity?", she looked up at Rarity with pleading eyes.

"Applejack, there is nothing to forgive. Given the circumstances, what you assumed was perfectly understandable. I am just glad that you are no longer mad at me", Rarity hugged Applejack tighter. She was indeed overjoyed that she could hold the love of her life in her legs again.

They remained like this for a few minutes while Applejack's sobs died away. "Rarity?"

"Yes darling?"

"So we're finally gona have a baby."

"Yes we are."

Applejack hugged Rarity tighter and kissed her on the lips, "I'm sorry Rarity, for everything that's happened."

"Applejack, I already forgave you even though you truly did not do much wrong. I hope now though, that you will trust me when I say that my whole self, in body and spirit, belong with you and you alone."

"You bet Rares. I love you."

"I love you too Applejack."

"Sooo... I like the name Marmalade. It's cute and fun to say."

"Oh Applejack."

Author's Note

(Hides self in shame for the long wait.)

Hope on the horizon

After the situation was resolved between the two of them, Applejack thought it best for Rarity to stay for lunch so that they could explain what happened and to tell Granny Smith and Big Macintosh they would soon be a great grandmother and an uncle respectively. Lunch started out very quiet with no one deciding it to be in their place to draw attention to the large elephant in the room. Rarity decided it best to try and lighten the mood first, "This lunch is delicious Miss Smith."

"Thank you Rarity."

Silence resumed. After a couple more minutes of this, Applejack knew it was time, "So Granny,... ya know how Rarity and ah have always wanted to eventually start our own family?"

"Is that what the commotion was last night and this mornin'? Good gravy girl, ya darn near gave me a heart attack comin' in here and slammin' doors, but then why were ya cryin' sweety?"

"It's... complicated Granny."

"Look, ah get that yer both mares, but didn't yall talk about adoption?"

"We did talk about it, but...somethin'....happened and now we won't have to adopt", Applejack said with a bit of giddiness in her voice.

"Yall use some of that fancy sciency hooey to get one of you preggers?"

"Not science Granny, it was more like... magic."

"Magic?" Granny Smith then looked over to Rarity, "Guessin' the magic part of this is you then?"

"You would be correct, " Rarity said not looking directly at the elder mare. The tone she had used sounded a little accusatory.

"Well actually... it was sort of both of us", Applejack clarified sheepishly. "Here's what happened..."

Applejack and Rarity proceeded to explain what had occurred the previous day and this morning. When they got to the part of the letter response from Princess Celestia, Granny smith asked if Rarity could go retrieve the letter for her to look at. As Rarity excused herself to go do just that, Applejack felt it coming from the look and tone of her grandmother, but could do nothing except sit and wait in dread.

When Rarity had almost fully ascended the stairs, Granny Smith turned to Applejack and began her low volume yelling, "I'm very disappointed in you Applejack Apple."

Big Macintosh attempted to try and defend his sister, "Granny wait-"

"Hush boy." That silenced him immediately and she turned back to Applejack, "That there mare loves ya Rarity. Didn't yall promise when yall got married to trust in each other?"

"Yes mam", Applejack responded sadly. She knew that her grandmother was right.

Applejack had always had self-esteem issues since way before she had even met Rarity. Among the many scars that were left from the death of her parents, she had believed, like part of her did even to this day, that her parents had died because she was not good enough. This feeling of unworthiness inspired her to always try to be the be better, which resulted in her becoming one of the most dependable ponies in Ponyville, possibly Equestria. However, this also caused her to think the worst in many situations, more specifically when it involved her being good enough for her friends, asking for help, or her worthiness to be with Rarity. The insecurities weren't helped when she discovered for herself that she was attracted to mares instead of stallions. She heard as a child, even still did sometimes, of how unsightly and unnatural these kinds of feelings were. She felt like she didn't belong most of her life, even with the unconditional love she received from her family, her friends and now Rarity.

Granny Smith was not trying to be cruel. She knew the internal problems that still lingered in the heart of her granddaughter from the death of her children. Her stern look began to fade away, "AJ... Ah know that sometimes ya feel like ya ain't good enough. Ya think that ponies will always choose others over ya, but ah think the fact the Rarity came to comfort you and put yer doubts to rest has to show ya how much you mean to her sweety."

Applejack looked up to be met with the kinds welcoming eyes of her grandmother and smiled. "Thank you Granny", she responded just as Rarity began to descend the stairs.

Rarity walked over to the table and floated the letter top Granny Smith who then pretended to speed read it. Rarity noticed this and the much denser atmosphere and concluded that she had simply been sent away for a while so they could have a quick talk without her there. Applejack didn't look sad, rather she smiled a bit, so Rarity decided not to press the matter.

Granny Smith set the letter aside and turned her attention to the two mares, "So, what ya two gonna do now?"

Rarity responded first, "Well, we just resolved yesterday's conflict this morning so we haven't had much time to discuss this."

"Well ah think yall should handle these living situations first."

"Living situations?", Applejack inquired.

"Don't tell me yall intend to raise the child from two homes. Yall ain't divorced, not even close to it I'd wager, so there ain't no reason to."

"Well Granny we're kinda tied to this arrangement. Rarity has her business so her leavin' that to move here ain't really an option and yall still need help around here so-"

"Oh hooey. AJ we can handle ourselves just fine, plus we've been doing pretty good in the money sense. We can afford to hire some farmhands. Celestia knows that our fields are getting bigger, so it's about time we did anyways."

Big Macintosh joined in, "She right AJ, but don't worry there will always be a spot here whenever you got the time."

"Mac, Granny ah can't do that do ya guys."

"You will do it Applejack. It's time you went and had yer own family. I'll be sad that yer finally leavin' the nest, but", Granny Smith looked over to Rarity, "ah know you'll be in good hooves. 'Sides, ain't like Rarity's place is in another town. We'll be close by for the visits which ah expect to get."

"Yer sure Granny?"

"Sure as sugar."

"Mac?"

"Eeyup."

"Well, what ya think Rarity?", Applejack asked since it would be Rarity's home being invaded here.

"Well...", she though for a moment before looking around nervously. Her eyes eventually reached the clock on the wall, "Oh my goodness. Is that the time? Applejack, we were supposed to pick up the girls an hour ago."

Applejack looked at the clock, "Shoot. Yer right Rarity." She and Rarity began to clear the table rapidly, "Sorry Granny. We gotta scoot, no pun intended."

"Ah understand, just make sure you two figure this out. Sooner the better."

"We will. Thank you again for everything Mrs. Smith."

"Good luck and ah thought ah told ya Rarity, Granny is fine. Yer my granddaughter too now."

Rarity smiled, "I will definitely try and remember."

They left the house and started towards Scootaloo's place. Applejack decided started the conversation back up as they went. "Well, Rarity? What ya think about me movin' in with ya?", Applejack asked with a little bit of joy in her voice. After all, this would be the start of her family life.

Rarity kept her focus forward, not wanting to look Applejack in the eyes, "Well..."

"Well?..."

"..."

"You don't want me to?"

"It's not that Applejack. In fact I would love to wake up every morning to your beautiful face. It's just that..."

"Just that what?..."

Rarity sighed, "Applejack I love you. I know that even though we are married, we both still have some... quirks that might bother the other."

"Quirks?"

"Yes. One of those for me is that I desire cleanliness. Applejack, the boutique is my home and as such, it is my germ-free haven of cleanliness."

"Ya think I'll dirty up the place?"

"Not you per say, but rather you enjoy doing... outside activities that might cause you to become filthy. I know that you don't mind the mud or dirt and I wouldn't want you to stop doing the things you love, but... " She turned to see Applejack's head looking down, "Oh Applejack, I'm sorry."

Applejack looked up with a determined look on her face, "Nah yer right Rarity. It's yer place so it's up to you."

"Well, I suppose I could make an exception for you", Rarity said as she got closer to Applejack and nuzzled her neck, earning a small giggle from her.

"I can't let ya do that Rares... so I'll be the one to make an exception."

"Beg your pardon?"

"I swear Rarity that if you let me into yer home permanently, that ah will strive to be a clean as possible. That is until I'm outside, then all bets are off. Deal?"

With no hesitation she kissed Rarity on the cheek, "Deal."

With that settled, they continued towards Scootaloo's home, bouncing name ideas off each other as they went. When they reached the house, they approached the front door and knocked. They were greeted by a dark orange earth pony stallion with a blue name, "Hello there you two. Here to pick up the girls?"

"Yes. We are very sorry we took so long. I hope the girls were not too much trouble."

"Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, your sisters are here to pick you up!" he yelled behind him into the house before turning back to the mares, "None whatsoever."

"Applejack, Rarity!", the yell came from the two crusaders and they ran up to hug their sisters.

"Hey you two", Applejack said as she playfully noogied Apple Bloom.

"Girls, say thank you to Scootaloo's father for putting up with-er I mean taking care of you."

"Thank you for taking care of us", both fillies said in unison.

"Anytime. It was a pleasure Have a nice day."

"You too."

As they headed home, Sweetie Belle asked, "So Rarity, anything new happen?"

"You could say that. Sweetie how would like to be an aunt?"

With eyes gaping wide, Sweetie Belle screamed, "Oh my gosh! I'm gonna an aunt! Yay!"

Apple Bloom looked just as exited but skeptical, "Wait, Miss Cheerilee said it took a mare and a stallion to make babies."

"I'll explain it to ya at home AB."

"As will I to you Sweetie Belle."

They eventually reached the point where they would have to go their separate ways. "I'll come by tomorrow to talk about the... livin' arrangements Rarity. "

"Excellent."

With that, they kissed, earning an ignored gag from their sisters, and left for their respective homes. Each leaving with the knowledge that someday soon, not only would they not have to leave each other to go home, but also they would have children of their own to love and adore. They would be a family very soon.

Author's Note

As I wrote this, I wondered if there were elephants in Equestria. Anywho, this one came out rather quick, no? I think I'm in the groove again. Also yes I made Scootaloo's dad an earth pony. I figured it would explain why her house wasn't in the clouds and why she was a weak flyer. Also pulled a FoP by calling him Scootaloo's dad. Names are hard.

Getting settled in

“… And so, that’s how yer gonna be an aunt.”

“Cool. So you did magic even though you’re an earth pony?”

“Sorta.”

“So what’s the second thing you wanted to tell me?”, Applebloom said eagerly smiling, waiting for more exiting good news.

“Well, I’m gonna start livin’ with Rarity real soon. “

“He he, ah can’t imagine how you convinced her to come live here”, Applebloom laughed imagining Rarity helping with the orchard in her fancy clothes.

“Actually AB, I’m the one that’s gona be movin’ with her”, Applejack said, a smile forming on her face while Applebloom’s began to fade.

“You’re leavin’?”

Applejack noticed the sadness in her little sister’s voice and tried to ease her worry, “Aw, c’mon now sugarcube. It ain’t like I’ll be goin’ miles away. I’ll just be at Rarity’s Boutique from now on.”

“But why do you have to start livin’ there?” Applebloom protested.

“Well sweetie, it would be a might difficult fer Rarity and ah to raise our incoming foal together while still livin’ far away from each other.”

“Like ya said before, it ain’t that far, so it wouldn’t be that hard would it?”

“AB, moving there would not only make things easier, but ah sorta gotta be there for Rarity while she’s pregnant.”

“She’s a grown mare ain’t she? She doesn’t need a babysitter.”

“Applebloom! That is not a nice thing to say.”

Applebloom looked down, “I’m sorry.”

“Now look AB, ah ain’t just gona move in with her because of the baby. I’m also goin’ because ah want to be with her. In case ya forgot, she’s my wife after all.”

“I guess, but…”, Applebloom couldn’t finish her sentence as she began sniffle a soft cry.

Applejack quickly moved toward Applebloom and pulled her into a tight hug, “There there Applebloom. It’s gona be fine.”

“No it won’t.”

“Now what makes ya say that?”

“Cuz you won’t be here anymore.”

“I’ll still be comin’ around to help around the farm and of course to visit mah family and by the way that includes you.”

“I guess…”

“Applebloom, ah know it seems like a lot is changin’ fer ya all at once, but even though I’m starting my own family, that doesn’t mean I’m gona stop lovin’ you guys.”

“But I’m gonna miss you.”

Applejack patted Applebloom on her head, “Ya won’t have to Applebloom. Ah know it sounds like ah care about Rarity more than yall, but that just aint true. Ah love ya both the same, just in diferent ways is all. You, Big Mac, and Granny wil still be part of my family and Rarity’s and ah always take care of my kin.”

“You promise?”

“Course ah do.”

“Okay AJ.”

“One day you will also leave the nest to have a family of yer own; maybe with Spike. That won’t be too far off, right AB?”

“AJ!”, Applebloom blushed crimson.

“Ha ha, I’m just teasin’, but my point is that this happens to all families. It ain’t a sad thing, rather it’s a rite of passage.”

“Yer right AJ.”

With her tears beginning to dry up, Applebloom hugged her sister tightly. She still dreaded the thought of Applejack not being there to yell at her to get out of bed for school, but she knew that Applejack was right. They would always be a family and distance was not going to stop them from being that.

While Applejack was explaining things to Applebloom, Rarity was doing the same with Sweetie Belle in Sweetie Belle’s room,”… And that is the situation we are in right now.”

“Yay! Not only am I going to be an aunty, but Applejack’s gonna start living here. This is gonna be so much fun.”

“Now Sweetie Belle, Applejack is not moving in here to be your playmate. She’s moving here so that we can raise our foal together and have our own little family at last”, Rarity said the last part with a dreamy look on her face.

“But aren’t I already your family Rarity?”

“Oh of course Sweetie, however Applejack and I will be starting our own, oh how do I say this…, little branch of the family tree.”

“Oh okay.”

“You’re sure you’re okay with this Sweetie?”

“Absolutely. Oh wait, is she gonna take my room?”

Rarity laughed, “Of course not Sweetie.”

“Then where is she gonna sleep?”

Rarity’s eyes widened, “Well… she would be sleeping in my room…”

“You mean like a sleepover?”

“Not quite Sweetie.”

“Well, I don’t think you can fit another bed into your room.”

“Well, that wouldn’t be happening. She would be sleeping in my bed.”

“Why? Is it because you guys are going to do married grown up stuff?”

“Well…”

This back and forth continued until Rarity said it was time for bed and thankfully this happened before she unwillingly deprived Sweetie Belle of her innocence.

A month passed in Ponyville without incident. Applejack could be seen bringing a cart of boxes to the Carousel boutique every few days. This time allowed Rarity to make the necessary room for Applejack and for the Apples to find adequate farm hands to fill in for the hours Applejack would be missing.

Today was finally the day she would move in permanently into the Boutique. It was mid-afternoon and Applejack was saying her temporary goodbyes to her family, “Well, look like that’s the last of it.”

Applebloom jumped up to grab Applejack by the neck and hugged her tightly. “I’m gonna miss havin’ you around AJ.” Her voice was starting to crack.

“Don’t cry AB, ah won’t be too far off for a visit.”

“You better keep that in mind and com around every so often, ya hear.” Granny demanded as she also hugged Applejack.

Applejack hugged her back, “Ah will Granny.”

Granny whispered, “Yer Ma and Pa would be proud.”

Applejack whispered in kind holding back tears, “Thank you.”

With her last things put into the cart, Applejack and Big Mac set off for the Boutique. When they arrived, Applejack knocked on the door and was greeted instantly by Rarity, “Hello Applejack.” After breakfast, she had been anxiously waiting for Applejack to arrive.

“Howdy Rarity”, Applejack hugged her wife. Although only a little more than a month had passed, Rarity was starting to show signs of her pregnancy with her little pudgy belly.

“Is this the last of it?” Rarity asked looking over at the nearly empty cart.

“Yep”, Applejack answered as she began to bring her boxes in their home.

“How rude of me. Hello to you as well Macintosh.”

“Hello Rarity.”

“I’m sorry to be taking Applejack way from your household.”

“Think nothin’ of it. It was time she got her own life started with you anyways.”

”I suppose. I wonder when you will do the same with Zecora”, Rarity said as Big Mac’s stoic face grew a blush.

“Ah… er…”

“Quit teasing my brother Rarity”, Applejack said as she came out of the boutique. “Ah finished bringing in my stuff.”

“Alright then. Ah best be off now then”, Big Mac said as he attached the cart to his harness and turned to head home.

“See ya Mac and you be careful now.” Applejack gave Macintosh one last hug for the road. With that he was off and the couple stayed outside waving for a bit until they decided it was time to head indoors.

Rarity kissed Applejack on the cheek and said, “So this is finally happening.”

“Yep.” Silence took over for a few moments before Applejack spoke again, “Well ah better put these things away.”

“Oh that can wait Applejack. It’s almost dinnertime and I am quite famished.”

“Ah am kinda hungry myself.”

“I say let us relax and go out to dine.”

“It’s a date then.”

They left for a small restaurant that laid a little ways off called “The Dancing Daffodil”. It was new to Applejack but Rarity had visited the establishment recently and was left with a good impression. When they arrived, they were greeted by a waitress, “Hello and welcome to The Dancing Daffodil. Table for two?”

“Yes.”

“Inside or outside?”

“Well it’s such a calm and nice night so why not outside Applejack?”

“Sounds good ta me.”

“Very well. This way please.” They were led through a door that landed them in a small fenced patio and took their seat at one of the tables.

Their orders were taken and Rarity decided to begin the conversing, “I’m so exited that this is finally happening”.

“Same here.”

“However, I suppose I have to get accustomed to wearing earplugs in my sleep now.”

“Beg yer pardon.”

“Well dear, you do snore rather loudly. I already bought a small pack for your occasional overnight stays, but it seems I’m going to have to purchase larger packs.”

“Hey.”

“Oh don’t worry Applejack, I don’t really mind. In a way I like it.”

“Ya do?”

“Yes. It let’s me know that you're next to me.”

“Aww, well shucks Rarity.”

“But you should get that checked out.”

“Well now little lady you ain’t exactly a kitten when ya sleep.”

“We’ve been over this Applejack. I do not snore.”

“Rarity, me and the girls have already told ya that ya do.”

“Obviously one of your attempts to collaboratively joke at my expense. I am as quiet as a mouse.”

“Yeah if it was snoring inside one of yer sewing machines while it was on.”

“I do not snore.”

“I don’t see why it’s a big deal Rares. I like it too fer that same reason you do. ‘Sides my whole family snores so I’m used to it.”

“Aww Applejack that is very kind.”

“Yer welcome.”

“But I do not snore.”

Applejack sighed.

They moved away from that topic and talked about other, but mainly about how things would be different from now on. After they finished their meal and paid, they headed for home. Along the way Applejack asked, “Ya been feeling alright lately Rares?”

“What do you mean?”

“There’s a rumor going around that yer pregnant, so I was just curious.”

“Har har. I’m fine. Although sometimes I do feel weaker at times and…”

Applejack interjected while laughing, “Ya mean heavier?”

“…I have the strangest cravings lately…”, Rarity stopped when what Applejack had said finally registered in her mind.

“Rarity?”

“Did you just call me…”, Rarity’s voice began to crack and her lower lip stated to quiver, “…f-f-fat?”

“Uh…no.”Oh boy I gone and done it now.

“Sure sounded like it.”

“I was just pointin’ out that you might feel weaker cuz-”

“Why?! Because I’m getting fat?!” The flood gates had been opened.

“No Rarity. I meant that since yer carrying a child that-”

Rarity gave no time for Applejack to finish as she ran off towards the boutique. Applejack was stunned by what had just transpired, but soon recovered and gave chase to Rarity. She was close to home when she heard the door slam, ”Me and mah big mouth.”

As she opened the door, she saw Rarity on her dramatic couch crying, “C’mon sugarcube, Ah didn’t mean…”.Rarity got up, saw Applejack and simple ran upstairs without a word.

Applejack followed and when she reached Rarity’s, well their room now, she opened the door slowly, “Rarity?”

“Go away! I’m just a hideous fat mare.”

Applejack sighed, “Rarity, ya ain’t hideous and ya ain’t fat.Yer just pregnant.” She heard Rarity whimper and climbed into the bed with her. She pulled Rarity into a tight embrace, “Yer still and always be the beautiful princess ah married.”

“You mean it?”

“Course ah do.”

Rarity turned to face Applejack with smiled on her face. That quickly faded when she smacked
Applejack on her shoulder, “Don’t ever call me fat again.”

“Ah didn’t-oh nevermind. Ah promise ah won’t.”

With that said Rarity kissed Applejack and pulled her in closer, “I love you Applejack”.

“Ah love ya too Rarity.”

This ain’t really how ah pictured our first night together. Guess you can’t always plan for everything. Boy Twilight would yell at me if she heard me say that.She looked down at Rarity’s sleeping face and could only smile at the sight. She kissed her forehead, “Thank you Rarity. You make me feel like the luckiest mare around.” With that, Applejack also drifted to sleep with Rarity in her embrace. The only way Applejack ever wanted it to be.