Free Fall Into Happenstance

She'd been awake for at least an hour, but Rory was reluctant to get out of bed. She tossed and turned a few times throughout the night, noticing that Light didn't come to bed. She figured he wanted some space, but it still tugged at her the slightest bit. Lazily pushing the covers away from her body, she let them slump in a pile on the floor. Quite laboriously, it seemed, the unicorn rolled over and felt for the floor with two hooves before sliding off the bed and catching herself. Her daily routine was sluggish, but she managed to get her things together and ready to go on time. Making her way downstairs, she caught Storm as she was getting ready to go, munching on a bit of toast. "Morning Storm, have a safe trip." Rory hugged her sister and quickly turned to go. As she made her way past the couch, she noticed Light Heart curled up and clutching a pillow.

With a grin, Rory lifted a blanket from a basket behind the couch and gently draped it over Light's sleeping form. Placing a small, soft kiss on his cheek, Aurora quietly stepped back towards the door, donning her scarf and heading out for the day.

Light opened an eye and watched her leave, never being a heavy sleeper. However, he was too tired to really initiate a conversation. As she made her way out the door, he mouthed the words "I love you..." to her, closing his eye again to get a precious few more hours of sleep before starting  his day.

His dream was strange that morning, not usually one to dream too much. He saw Rory trudging through plains covered in ice, a bitter wind blowing hard against her. He was behind her, urging her forward whenever she lost her footing, which happened a bit in the deep snow. He didn't know where they were, or why they were there. Only in that they were both determined, driven by an unknown need that was of the utmost importance.

It took Rory the usual amount of time to make it to campus; about an hour. It gave her a bit of time to reflect on a few things. Despite her fatigue, she was determined to have a good day, and to have a smile on her face when Light came home this evening. Her day wasn't too stressful; her professor deeming progress on her portfolio to be satisfactory, and the campus wasn't so busy that the unicorn couldn't enjoy a few moments of quiet in the studio. Even though she was eager to graduate, she had to admit she'd probably miss this place.

It was late afternoon before she was able to head home, stopping by a produce stand to grab a few ears of corn for dinner. Just as Rory was getting home, it had started to lightly rain. She didn't get too damp, just the top of her hair and coat as she unlocked the front door. Setting aside her things, she quickly set to work in the kitchen.

Upstairs in their room, Light had books scattered all over the floor as he furiously flipped page after page, finding what was important for the subject at hoof. He scribbled down notes hastily with the pen in his teeth, before turning to another book, cross-referencing facts to make sure everything made sense. He never heard her enter, over the soft sound of the rain falling, his excited breathing, and his furious concentration.

Rory was busy plugging away in the kitchen when a thud from upstairs startled her half to death. Reasoning that Storm wouldn't be back, and unaware that Light was actually home now, Rory began to slightly panic that there was a not-so-friendly stranger upstairs. Grasping her kitchen knife firmly with her magic, she very quietly made her way up the stairs and towards disgruntled sounds coming from her room. She paused a few moments to work up courage, before bursting into her room screaming, not realizing it was Light heart, and sending a book that was in front of the door flying.

The book hit him square in the head, sending him backwards and hitting his head against the bed, thankfully the mattress. The pen in his mouth, however, didn't feel very good jamming into the back of his mouth. Spitting it out and gagging a bit, he looked up, his ears back against his head. "Next time use the knife, it would be quicker...." he said irritated, glancing at the assailant book on the ground that "Idiots Guide to Equestrian Law"

Faltering and almost dropping the knife, Rory's ears set back as she tried to catch her breath. She set the sharp object down on her desk and stepped over a minefield of books to get to Light Heart. Picking up the one book that managed to do damage, Rory's heart sank when she read the title. "Luna's stars... they... they didn't-" She felt a lump rise in her throat as she let the book fall back to the floor, speechless.

He simply nodded, motioning for her to sit next to him. "Just sit here for a moment Rory, before you overwork yourself. It may not be as bad as you think." He said quietly, still rubbing his head. He knew she would react this way...because he would too, if he were her. But she didn't need the added stress right now.

Using one hoof, he draped it over hers on his leg as he used the other to remove hers from her mouth. "Rory, it's alright, I promise. I expected this, and I am fine. I am just doing a little bit of prep work before I see a lawyer tomorrow. But from what I know, this could be an open and shut case before it even gets to court."

Rory cleared a spot next to the pegasus, placing one forehoof on his leg while she mindlessly nibbled at her other. She took a few moments to try and regain her composure before speaking again. "Are you alright? What did they say to you?"

"Oh, what did they tell me...." He chuckled a little. "Like most immediate fill positions in the hospital industry, after turning in the application and having it reviewed, they called me back for an interview. A grizzled old pony, whom I am assuming was a department head, gave me a strange look when I entered his office, as I was told to do by his secretary. He asked who I was and what I wanted. From that point on, I knew it was a wasted interview. The questions were vague and simple enough that even an undergraduate could answer them. When I was dismissed, I didn't close the door behind me all the way. I watched him laugh, then toss my resume into the fireplace. I wasn't angry; I braced myself for this. I immediately went to the library and...well, here we are."

"That's so rude..." She huffed, crossing her forehooves over her chest. "So how is this going to be an open and shut case? Do you have any real proof that he burned your resume? " Her head was spinning at the thought of lawsuits and the like; if there was one thing she understood little of, it was law.

Light Heart scratched his head "Well, it's a simple matter of qualifications, an immediate and desperate need, and them having no good reason OTHER than that not to hire me." Light put his hooves to his chin. "If I can get a few employees to give testimony or come forward as witnesses to either defend the need and/or with evidence of previous discrimination, it will make it easier." He sighed, closing the book at his hooves. "Or at least i think...or hope."

Rory frowned once more, turning to look at him. "Will you ever be able to get a job at the hospital after this?" She asked. "Will you want to?"

Light nodded. "I think it's just one pony set in his ways, that others are afraid of. If this goes through, he will most likely have an 'early retirement' and let somepony else fill his spot. Besides, waiting around for the interview, the other staff seem really friendly, like most others in town. "

She rested her head on his shoulder and let out a sigh. "At least there is hope; that much I'm glad to hear. I'm so sorry I hurt you earlier... you scared me. I wasn't expecting anyone to be here."

Light chuckled and kissed her forehead. " I am just glad you looked before hurling the knife. Remind me never to piss you off..." he said, quite seriously.

Her ears dropped a bit and she felt her cheeks burn. Standing, Rory took the knife from her desk and headed for the door. "I'll be downstairs finishing dinner if you need anything. I'll call you down when it's ready, okay?"

Standing, he quickly followed behind her, resting a hoof on her back. "Rory, it's alright. It's my fault, I should have been downstairs, left the door open, or listened for you to come home. Sometimes I forget that I am not living alone anymore is all." He smiled at her then "But then I see you and I remember just exactly where home really is."

Nerves finally settling, Rory melted at his grin. She planted a quick kiss on his muzzle before smiling and heading back downstairs to finish her work. It didn't take her too long to finish prepping the corn and dicing the onions for the salsa. Mixing in the vinegar and sugar mixture with the black beans and other assorted vegetables, Rory set the salsa to the side while she sliced some baguettes and toasted them in the oven. She retrieved two plates from the cabinet and a few other items to set the table. Rory paused as she caught sight of the flowers Light had brought home the day before and beamed.

"Light Heart! Dinner is almost ready!" She called out, lifting the vase and heading towards the sink to fill it with more water.

Light took a little while to get downstairs, picking up the unorganized pile of books and arranging them as neatly as possible on the desk. He winced as he saw a bump on his forehead where the book clocked him. He would put ice on it, but it was a bit too late to stop the swelling that already happened. Sighing, he made his way downstairs to see Rory already sitting at the table. "Sorry hon, just wanted to clean up a bit." The rain picked up at this point, coming down in quite a downpour.

"It's alright, love." Rory smiled. "I was just listening to the rain, it's very soothing." Noticing the knot on his forehead, she winced a bit and apologized once more. Aurora felt foolish for her little exhibition earlier.

She sat patiently while Light made himself comfortable, waiting for him to serve himself first before dishing out her own portion. She thought about trying to take his mind off of his studies for a bit with idle chat. "I'm looking forward to our trip this weekend, though I'll be more than happy to put it on hold if you need more time to sort out legal matters."

So much for idle chat. She cursed herself for inadvertently bringing up the lawsuit again.

Light shook his head. "No, I need this weekend as much as you. It will make sure my head is clear before going into next week, where I am sure things will be picking up." As always, her cooking never disappointed, and most of what she made was pretty healthy to boot, well, minus the pasta of course.

The storm raged on through the evening, and like every other night that week, Rory found trouble sleeping. She managed to catch a few hours before getting up in the morning to quickly pack a weekend saddlebag for herself.

Putting a hoof out the front door, she deemed it was officially cold enough to wear a coat this afternoon. Scurrying for her grey jacket in the closet, she paused as light was coming downstairs. "Do you have a jacket, hun? I think it's going to be pretty cold today." She asked, donning her own coat and signature scarf.

Light nodded, turned around, and returned with he only jacket he owned, a lightweight brown jacket he had since his college days. On his way out of the room however, he noticed a red and white scarf hanging by the door and threw it around his neck.

"All set hon? I usually travel light, but since you organized this trip, you're in charge."

Admiring the scarf on her stallion, Rory grinned and opened the door as she hoisted her saddlebags on her back. "Let's be off! It's a twenty minute train ride to Saddleworth. We can grab a quick bite to eat and then check in to a hotel. After that, sky's the limit! The only thing we have to do is stop at the art store. Once that's done, we can do a bit of sightseeing."

They had an uneventful, but cheerful walk to the train station as they left all of their cares behind them for just this one weekend. It had been a long, rough two weeks for them both as the mounting stress from their own individual issues as well as worrying about the other built up.

As they took their seats on the train, Light rested his head on Aurora’s shoulder. "Can you believe it's only been about a month since we first met?" he said randomly.

Laughing, Rory shook her head. "No. Some days it feels longer, others... like I only met you a few days ago." She rested her head against his and twirled a strand of her hair around her hoof. "I'm glad you're with me. I won't be so lonely with Storm gone."

He playfully nudged her in the side before giving her a little tickle with his hoof. "Oh, so that's all I am good for? And to think I thought we had something more!" he said with a smile and a faux harumph.

Feeling snarky, Rory rolled her eyes at him. "Nope, I just like you for your body." She snickered.

Looking around and noticing the train relatively empty, and feeling exceptionally playful, he quickly turned and straddled her lap, smirking down at her. "Psh, every mare in Equestria loves this body..." he said, flexing his hooves in mock bravado.

Howling in laughter, she slapped at his chest a few times, playfully pushing him away. "Oh yes, such a studly stallion!" She teased in as deep a voice as she could muster.

Looking around again, he realized that nopony was paying any attention to them. He kissed the top of her head, running his hooves through her mane a little. "But I guess they'll just have to wait in line. I only got enough stud for one mare." he gave her a playful wink "Lucky you, eh?"

The corners of her mouth turned up in a sly grin, and the look she gave him was one that seemed to suggest and ask a multitude of things at once. "You're awful." She tittered, pulling on the ends of his scarf to bring him down to her for a quick kiss.

Her lips on his made his mind reel as a jolt of emotion shot through his body. Touching his nose to hers, he gave her a sweet, telling smile. "The worst..." he said quietly, before he returned to his seat, and pulled her close to him to snuggle for the remainder of the trip.

The change of scenery was a tell tale sign that they were nearing the train station. As the locomotive pulled in and came to a halt, travelers flurried about on their way to untold destinations. The train platform was rather old fashioned; a simple concrete slab really, in the middle of the rolling green countryside. Taking in a breath of fresh air, Rory stepped down off the platform and started down the dirt road towards Saddleworth.

There was a small biscuit shop right as they entered the edge of town, and by the smell of things... they were fresh out of the oven. "I think this place is as good as any to grab a bite to eat. You hungry?"

"Only if we can eat outside, it feels amazing out here. A little warmer than back home, but with the sun shining....yeah, only if we can eat outside." To him, a new city, a small cafe, and the most exquisite mare in all of Equestria to keep him company flooded his brain with positive thoughts.

It was like the first day he met her all over again. Well, minus a shoe to the snout.

"Deal." She levitated her coin purse from underneath her scarf as they walked in through the open door. There were all manner of scones and pastries, but Rory went straight for the biscuits this shop was apparently famous for. Making their way back outside, they found a seat at the edge of a fountain.

"So, if I remember correctly, there should a bed and breakfast maybe two blocks from here. I'd like to try our luck there, but if it's a bust we'll stay at the big hotel on the other side of town."

Light shook his head and smiled that playful smile again "Screw that big hotel, we will stay at the bed and breakfast, even If I have to find a way to 'evict' a guest prematurely!" taking a bite of the biscuit, he gave her a slight wink before letting out a small moan. "Ugh...sweet Celestia..." Not as good as the garlic rolls, but still quite good.

"I love places like this." he said, savouring the taste in his mouth. "...quiet, quaint, charming....full of life in its own unique way."

Rory nodded. "I agree, and such a nice escape. The weather is nearly perfect, this town is perfect, and I've got the most perfect stallion in all of Equestria to keep me company." She winked, finishing her biscuit.

"Alright there Velveeta, you keep that up I might have to find a cheese shop and see how much I can get for you."  he couldn't help but be in this good mood.

"I learn from the best, Captain Kraft." She smirked.

Grinning, the pegasus replied "Let's go, I am itching to see more of this place. That, and I have an innkeeper to intimidate."

They took their time walking along the streets, looking into various shop windows at all the wares and knick knacks. It took them maybe thirty minutes to find the bed and breakfast called "Rolling Hills Cottage". It was a little white cottage with a thatched roof, and dark green trim around the window sills and door frame.

Thankfully, Light didn't have to persuade a current guest to surrender their room. In fact, not only did they get a room, Light's good mood and playful demeanor somehow made an impression on the innkeeper, and earned them the best room available for no extra charge. That, and apparently Light's assessment of a rash the innkeeper had on the back of his neck turned out to be nothing more than poison ivy turned his day a bit brighter.

"Just get some Calamine for that, it will definitely take the edge off." As they made their way up the small staircase, light turned back "Tell ya what, I'll pick some up for you on my way into town. My thanks for being such a kind soul to two grateful travelers." The innkeeper smiled and mentioned something about leaving something special for them in the room as he sauntered off to take care of something.

It was the very top floor, and as they let themselves in, Rory's jaw dropped. To the left was a large bed with an unbelievable amount of pillows, and a canopy overhead with sheer curtains draping down to the floor. There was a large window at the far side overlooking the countryside and the mountains beyond, the thick curtains pulled back to give a stunning display. There was a mini kitchen area with a small fridge and all manner of amenities stocked in baskets on the counter space. There was a fairly private deck outside the window, and there was a small jacuzzi just to the side of the large glass door.

"Wow... all this for a standard rate? This is amazing!" She set her saddlebag down on the coffee table by the windows. "This is certainly shaping up to be a fantastic weekend, dear."

"Don't jinx it..." he said laughing lightly, taking a diving leap into the bed. He wiggled around a bit, letting out a small moan. "Can we just move this into your room? I mean, I love our bed and all, but at least in this one, you won't starfish out and kick me off." He rolled over, looking at her across the room, taking in her graceful form. "Not that I mind you touching me."

Dismissing his comment on jinxes, Rory let her eyes wander the room and the gorgeous view of the outside world.

"Hon, if I could fit that thing in our house, I would." She wasn't sure why, but she felt the sudden urge to run and dive bomb Light Heart on the bed. She got a good bit of momentum up before taking a leap into the air, crashing down onto the bed in a fit of laughter.

She landed right into his hooves, then the pegasus proceeded to turn her on her back and start to furiously tickle her sides. "Having problems staying off your studly stallion? Just because I am in a bed doesn't mean you can have your way with me you know." he said with a goofy smile, hooves digging into her sides and under her legs where she was most ticklish. "But if you ask nicely..."

Shrieking and flailing, Rory almost couldn't breathe she was laughing so hard. One fling of her hoof landed Light square in the jaw. He winced and stopped his tickling (to spare further damage), but didn't break his grin as he lightly held her down and leaned in to kiss her nose.

"Just because you may like it a bit rough doesn't mean you can beat me. I am fragile! A delicate little flower, you know."

At first Rory felt bad, but had to cover her muzzle with her hooves to try and stifle her laughter.

She did a terrible job of that, her cackles echoing throughout the room. It took her a few minutes to calm down and catch her breath; she was laughing so hard she cried. "A wee wittle pansy? Hehehehe!" She giggled. "It's okay, I won't beat you up too badly." She winked, kissing him on the tip of his nose and flicking her tail around his.

Light touched his nose to hers and gave his tail a quick swish causing it to lightly strike the insides of her rear legs. "Let's see if you can keep that promise...." he said, smiling, as he pressed her lips open with his, letting loose a desire that fueled up in him quickly. His attitude, combined with the setting and her playfulness made him want her something fierce. His tail continued its less-than-innocent movements as he pulled the blanket over top of them with the kick of a hind hoof.

Some time later, Rory freshened up in the shower a bit before getting ready to head back out for the day. She arranged some of her things in the dresser and took a smaller saddlebag from her larger one to wear around town. She decided to pull her long mane into a ponytail, and once again donned her white and purple scarf and gray coat. Tucking her coin purse in, she walked over to the bed where Light Heart lie, waiting for her. "You ready to get going?" She asked quietly, nipping at his cheek.

Light growled a bit and returned the nip playfully on her ear. "You wear me out like that then ask me to get up and trot around town?" He chuckled as he stood, straightening his mane a bit. "You’re lucky I love you."

She answered him with a wink and a smile, opening the door to the room with her magic. "You know that works both ways, right?" She said quietly, as the made their way down the corridor and the subsequent stairway.

Outside it had gotten a bit windier and was slightly overcast, but it did nothing to dampen Rory's spirits. Trotting for about three blocks, they came at last to their destination. It was a little hole in the wall place, filled with all kinds of obscure and strange looking art equipment that many folks wouldn't know what to do with if they'd never seen it before.

Walking in after holding the door open for her, Light looked around in utter confusion; he was completely out of his element. He browsed the shelves while she set about her task, he wouldn't even know what to find if she asked him to look. Picking up a strange looking brush with 2 heads on it, he held it up to Rory. "Umm...what is THIS for?"

Giggling, she took the brush from him and put it back on the shelf. "It's for painting. You can more easily achieve wood grain effects with a brush like that. I'm here for new oil paints and a few custom-sized canvases I ordered at the beginning of the week. I prefer coming here because they can make any size I want, and I don't have to settle for the standard sizes at the local store in Hoofington."

Light nodded and continued to browse. He has a tendency to touch things and can't help checking out all the odds and ends while she conversed with the shop owner. Finally, he just made his way over to her. "Suppose I'll let you my back and hooves to get these back to inn before I break something in here..."

The shop owner smiled, handing Rory the reciept for her purchase. Placing a few tubes of oil paint in her saddlebag, the unicorn levitated the canvases carefully over her head. "I appreciate the offer, hon... but I'm very particular about my canvases. I'd rather just take these back to the room myself. Besides..." She nodded to draw attention to her magic. "I can levitate things and easily keep them out of folks' way on the street."

Light just nodded and turned to the door. He always forgets that around unicorns, his ability to "help" is more of a hinderance than anything else. "Well, I'll make myself useful and open the doors for you..." he said

Rory frowned. "I'm sorry, Light. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings." She said as she walked out the door he held. "Thank you."

Light shook his head "You didn’t hurt my feelings hon, I just forget that you don't really need a stallion to help you with your things" He glanced at the canvas' from the corner of his eyes as they made their way back to the inn. Entering the room, he asked "What are your plans for them?"

She smiled, gently setting the canvases in a cool, dry area of the room. "I'm going to be painting a series of art nouveau inspired images to include with my senior exhibition. These will actually be the main focus." Light nodded as if he knew what she was talking about. He would look it up later probably. Yawning, Aurora loosened her scarf as she trotted back over to where the pegasus stood. "So, what would you like to do now?"

The stallion scratched his head as he sat down on the bed. "I dunno...if you are tired we can just enjoy the balcony or something. We have all morning and afternoon tomorrow."

“That sounds like a great idea, actually. I've been running myself ragged with all these preparations." Nuzzling under his chin, Rory sighed. "I'm sure my fatigue will be a thing of the past once everything is sorted out."

Light nodded, glancing over at the desk in the room. "I'll find us something to eat, we can have it delivered to the room. In the mood for anything in particular?" he said, throwing his scarf on the back of the chair as he made his way to the desk and threw open a small book of "Things to Do", turning to the restaurant section

"No, I don't mind what we eat. If something catches your eye, we'll go with it. If we are going to enjoy the balcony, we are going to need some towels and blankets." She stated, trotting into the bathroom to retrieve two of the remaining three towels left there. "It looks like tonight will be a perfect night for stargazing."

He smiled, loving nothing more than enjoying an evening under the stars with her. He ordered something local, fresh farm food that was terribly bad for you. The innkeeper delivered the food, as well as a bottle of champagne as a "thank you" for the lotion Light picked up on his way back to the inn. Taking the foot to the balcony, he set up a little picnic style dinner for the two of them. "Feels weird living it up like this with no job...." he said, looking off the balcony as he took a bite of a vegetable pot-pie. "Heres hoping to that changing soon."

Pouring two flutes of champagne, Rory set one before each of them before digging into her own pot pie. In her haste, she burned the tip of her tongue on the delectable dish. "Ow!" She let her tongue hang out for a moment, in what she was sure was her least graceful display ever. "Sthorry. Thathts hot..." She waved a  hoof over her mouth a few moments before feeling relief. "But yes, I'm confident we'll be putting that chapter behind us and moving to bigger and better things."

Light couldn't help but chuckle, making sure to blow on his to avoid the same fate. "And what exactly bigger and better things do you have in mind?" he said through a mouthful of food, somehow still managing to smile.

Finally feeling relief, Rory was able to speak while she let her pot pie cool down more. "Well, I'll be graduating this semester, you'll certainly find work... those things are exciting. And then there's the unknown." She smiled. "That's thrilling beyond all belief, especially now that I have you along for the ride."

"OH! Those things..." he said with a small hint of laughter while gently swirling his champagne glass. "Yes, big things indeed. Have you thought your plans after school?"

She let out a sigh. "Well, I'll be able to spend more time working for private clients, and I might be able to land bigger jobs elsewhere. I quite like it here, so I'm not ready to relocate just yet." She stated. "There is a lot I've yet to figure out, but I'll cross that bridge when I get to it. For now, I need to focus on my portfolio."

Looking down, he quickly finished his pot pie, famished for some reason. "I suppose such is the life of an artist. A bit new to me, but the spontaneity is enticing. While my everyday job may vary depending on patients, it is, in a way, 'the same old thing every day'."

"It's nice working on my own terms, though it can be a sort of feast or famine industry. There are some months I don't make any income from art. I might have to take a second job with Storm gone to cover a few extra things. Thankfully we don't owe anything on the house." After taking a test bite and deeming her pie cool enough, she found she was quite suddenly hungrier than she thought.

Light sighed a bit "Hopefully this will all pass soon and I can more than enough support what we need." He looked up, but turned his head to side and slightly away from her. "And considering the future, I can easily support...us...should those famine months come."

Not quite catching what he said, Rory smiled, finishing the last few bites of her pot pie and scraping at the sides of the tin bowl. "I have no doubt things will work out in the end. It won't always be easy, but we'll always have what we really need." Gently placing the disposable fork and lid inside the leftover tin, she put it back in the bag it was brought in. She took another small sip of champagne, and her eyes drifted up to the darkening sky.

Light winced a little bit at her reaction to his comment. Not negative, so apparently she just wasn't understanding his intention. He took a large sip and chuckled as he laid his head down on the towel, using a pillow from the bed he brought with him to lay on He smiled up at the stars as he continued to laugh, more of a heavy breath, as he shook his head.

Hearing him sigh, Rory looked to where Light lay. "Something on your mind, dear?" She asked, putting her flute down and standing, walking around the makeshift table to him. She let herself down next to him, huddling under a blanket and as close to him as she could for warmth.

Sliding his hoof under her neck and pulling her close, he couldn't help but immediately stroke her mane. "Think about the last thing I said...replay the words in your mind." He smiled wide as he gave her a quick kiss on the forehead. "Sometimes being subtle with you is a chore."

She pondered a moment, brow creased. Biting her lower lip, her eyes shot up to meet his and she let her jaw hang slack. "...What future... exactly?" She asked, heart beginning to beat faster.

Smile widening he gave her another squeeze as he turned to face her. "Do you not think about the future? Our future?"

She was reminded of what she felt that first night Light Heart spent at her home. When she saw her family photos on the wall, her imagination had run away with her, just as it was doing now.

"Yes... I do." She whispered. "Many different things have crossed my mind, like where we'll be, what we'll be... who we'll be..." she trailed off

Kissing her lightly on the nose, he just slowly and silently nodded as he turned his head back up to the night sky. "I used to not think about the future much, but rather preferred to live day by day." He shifted his eyes to look at her, ever so slightly turning his head. "Somepony has convinced me to think otherwise."

Her breathing actually became slightly heavier and she wasn't really aware that she was actually quite tense. "A-and why is that, Light?" She couldn’t help but ask the obvious. She was burning to know what was on his mind.

He continued to stroke her mane, his tail flicking a bit with the thoughts on his mind. He turned his attention back up to the stars, concentrating. "Have you ever thought about starting a family? I mean, not now, but...in the future."

"Every now and then, sure. I mean... I was never the kind of mare who dreamed of growing up to be the perfect little housewife but..." When she said the word 'housewife' it felt like all the air was sucked from her lungs.

He turned his head toward her, a look of concern on his face. "I'm sorry, did what I say upset you? I...didn't mean to imply anything...really."

Her heart sank a little, but a smile found it's way back to her face. "No, you didn't upset me... I guess I was just flustered. I don't normally talk about these things... with anyone. Not that I'm opposed to it, I've just never really been asked." She placed a hoof over his to reassure him she was alright.

Relieved, his gaze returned to the stars, moving their hooves over to his chest. "I've never thought about it before. Like I said, I have always lived in the moment, worrying about the day to day life. Some things I plan ahead for, like finances and stuff like that, but when it comes to me and my future? Well, it has always been safer to just let things fall as they may." He turned his head back to her, using his other forehoof to brush her cheek gently.

"Then I look into those eyes of yours, and everything is different. I see....a future now."

She smiled, lowering her eyes for a moment before speaking.

"So what 'bigger and better things' do you see ahead of us?"

The pegasus closed his eyes, pulling her close up against his neck. He turned his head, nuzzle near her ear as he whispered "Some things are better left in secret." Giving her a kiss just on the base of her ear, he smiled as he looked up again. "It's beautiful outside tonight."

"Yes it is." She sighed, snuggling close to him. "I'm glad we were able to make this trip."

He cast his glance over to her once more. "You've been sighing a lot tonight. Is everything OK? Something you are not telling me?"

She looked up at him, an eyebrow cocked. "I don't think anything is wrong... I'm a bit tired, but it's been a long week. That's to be expected."

Light gave her a reassuring squeeze and just went back to stargazing. They laid there for no telling how long before Light's eyelids finally got heavy. Helping her to her feet, he shivered a bit from the cold. "How about a hot bath before bed? For some reason, it just sounds like a really good idea. Well, a "warm" idea at least."

Already nodding, she shook her head to rouse herself as she stood. "I think a bath sounds nice and relaxing. Lead the way, Captain." She smiled

Getting the bath ready with hot water and just a hint of a scented bubble bath that was left in the room. Light went about shutting the doors and getting the room ready for night. For some reason, he was adamant about keeping Rory in the bathroom while he set about his task. He returned a few minutes later, just in time to turn off the water. "Ladies first..." he said, motioning her to get in and offering a hoof to help.

She protested the tiniest bit at his insistence to stay put, but ultimately gave in. Smiling when he returned, she placed a small kiss on the side of his neck as he helped her into the tub. It was a bit warmer than she was comfortable with, wincing when she set her first hoof in. Eventually, she just gritted her teeth and stepped completely in, shifting her weight to let the water form little waves and splash up her legs.

After a few seconds, she was becoming accustomed to it, and submersed herself all the way up to her neck. Waiting patiently for Light to follow after her, she watched with a playful grin on her face. "So, what were you up to out there? You took quite a while to come back, I thought you'd forgotten me!" She joked.

He rolled his eyes with a smile, batting a hoof at some of the bubbles toward her face as he made his way in slowly. He too, took his time as the cold body temperature made the water feel even hotter than it actually was. "Just getting it ready for us to go to bed, nothing special." He sat opposite of her, sinking down to his neck too, swatting some bubbles away so he could make eye contact with her. "This..we need one of these outside back home, so we can watch the stars in warmth."

Rolling her eyes up then letting them meet with his once more, she moved forward until their noses touched. "I would love to have something like this... for when it's too cold to visit our place." She smiled. "But we'd need a porch, wouldn't we?" She grinned, batting her eyelashes. She thought about what she said after a moment, then laughed at herself. "Listen to me, I'm not even married to you and I'm giving you a list of things we 'need'."

Light smiled, scooping a few bubbles in a hoof as he arranged it neatly over her muzzle into a beard. "There...now we match, except you look like an old unicorn wizard now..." He kissed her forehead with a little chuckle before leaning back, crossing his hooves together. "Better hurry up and propose to me then. Remember, all those other mares are waiting in line."

Placing a few bubbles over her eyes to create 'eyebrows' she began to speak in a deep (for her) voice. "Oh dearest Light Heart, the Captain of the Kraft sigil and most esteemed cheese maker, wouldst thou takest mine hand in the most blessed union of glorious marriage, and produce little cheese minions to succeed my throne of astounding wizardry?" She giggled, trying to keep the bubbles from falling off her face.

Splashing her face with a loud guffaw, he left a trail of misaligned eyebrows and beard on her muzzle. "That was the worst proposal ever. A for creativity, F for delivery. I expected better from one who practices the art of fondue." He used his back legs to slide her closer to him, touching his nose to her bubble-infused one. "Try again." he said with a sly smile, his forehoof trailing up her hind right leg to her thigh

Gasping and biting her lip, she closed her eyes and wrapped her forelegs around  him. "And what kind of proposal is more befitting for a stallion of your stature?" She asked, though it was more rhetorical than anything. She planted little kisses over his damp neck and up to the place she knew would excite him. Nipping at his lower ear, she smiled, a small growl sounding in her throat. "Would you like me to tell you I want to spend my life with you? To grow old and grey, watching our children and grandchildren become something amazing? To care for you even when you've upset me? To support you in everything you do, from getting up in the morning to climbing the tallest mountain in Equestria? Because you know... I do want those things." There was the utmost sincerity in her voice.

Light shivered a bit, despite the hot (which somehow became hotter) bath. It wasn't so much the action, or the words, that caused it. It was the way she said it. Her physical touch, the clear tone and unbroken thoughts that she voiced into words. Where she normally struggled to say what she felt, here, she had no such difficulty.

And it made his heart melt.

"I do." Was all he could say breathlessly, knowing full well it wasn't a real proposal, but he wished it was. He doubted he could come up with words so beautiful and moving that sung the song his heart was composing since the day he met her. His eyes watered up as he brought a hoof to her cheek. He wanted to reply, to tell her that he couldn't see his future any other way than with her by his side, that he couldn't bear the thought of not growing old with her. She was his soulmate, destined by fate and bound by love; there was no other for him.

Not speaking another word, she chose to tell him what she felt with her actions instead. Locking eyes with him once more, she brought her hooves behind his head and slowly pulled him in for a passionate kiss.

He pulled her tight against him as his hooves played in her mane, lightly massaging her scalp. He finally broke the kiss, simply because he was having problems breathing. Resting his nose on hers, and slightly panting. "I think we needed this trip...." he said with a small smile, giving her a light kiss on her upper lip.

Not wanting to get too ahead of himself for the night, he used his hooves to pull her in close against his neck, nuzzling his muzzle just under her ear. "I have a little surprise for you outside." he said softly as he separated himself from her and helped her out of the bath and passed her a towel.

She pulled away, but never took her hooves off him. "A surprise?" Stepping gingerly out and quickly drying off, she wrapped herself in the towel she was given and found her way to the bathroom door. She hesitated, waiting for him to finish drying himself before moving further.

Putting a hoof on her back, Light Heart urged her forward out the door as he opened it slowly. "Go ahead...." he said.

The mare was greeted with sounds of orchestral music playing softly from a source unseen toward the bed. The room was dimly lit, the only traces of light being the starlight from outside, and about a dozen candles placed around the bed and tables of the room. Strewn about the floor creating a path from the bathroom to the bed were red and white rose petals and sitting on the nightstand next to the bed was a small goblet,  a tiny plate with food on it, and a small bottle. As she took another step, she could smell a very light hint of lavender mixed with vanilla.

Light smiled as he took everything in. This was his idea, but he needed help and it went off perfectly. "I had the innkeeper help out with this while we were in the bath." He continued to beam as he nodded to the bed "I do have one more thing for you though."

Rory's face lit up as she beheld the scene before her. It was like something out of a romance novel. She let her hoof play with a few stray petals, inhaling the wonderful scent of them mixing with the fragrant candles. Turning to face him, she beamed, biting her lower lip and briefly looking down before meeting his gaze once more. "I don't see how you could possibly do more than you already have, dear. This was so thoughtful."

He kissed her gently on the cheek, urging her to the bed with a hoof. "Lie down in the center, please." he said soothingly. "Also, there should be fresh cider in the goblet with a hint of spice to it, as well as a few light cheeses and fruits to nibble on." he added as he took the small bottle and positioned himself at the foot of the bed. "I know you have been stressed lately, not just with yourself but me as well, so I thought I would give you a massage. I got this special oil a few days ago, but I really had no idea when I would have a chance to use it. The opportunity kind of presented itself today."

To say Rory was surprised would be an understatement, but it was a pleasant surprise to boot. Following instructions, she lie down on her stomach, hooves stretched out in a relaxed position. Taking a deep breath and releasing, she smiled and closed her eyes. "You've thought of everything, haven't you?" She murmured. The candlelight flickered and flared, casting a red-orange glow over her dark brown mane.

Light chuckled as he positioned himself above her, straddling her lower half. "If I thought of everything, we would have a string quartet playing in the corner of the room, servants feeding you grapes off the vine, and a long swizzle straw attached to that goblet." he said as he carefully squirted a few drops of the oil onto her back. Starting at her shoulders, he slowly dug his hooves down into her coat as he worked his way up to the sides of her neck. "Besides, I don't really think about things like this for you. They just kind of come out of my head and somehow I want to make them real."

She laughed at him "Well just this makes me feel like royalty. I'll admit, I never expected it. I'll have to give my thanks to the innkeeper when we leave tomorrow." She grinned, letting out a deep sigh. "How is it that you say don't think of these things, yet you somehow get the idea just the same?" She paused, a little moan finding it's way from her lips. "That feels great, hon."

He worked his hooves lower, back to her shoulders, pressing in deep when he found a knot or two in her tissue, "Well, I suppose what I mean is I don't have to sit down and contemplate these things. They just kind of spring up in me...like 'Oh, I bet Rory would love this!'" Smiling, he leaned down and quickly kissed the back of her head "Much like the cheese I fling at you."

Aurora winced a bit as Light worked out another knot, but the pain eased after a few seconds. "I suppose that makes sense. You don't plan things ahead, they are more spontaneous... I like that." She grinned, even more so at his cheese comment. At that, she lifted a small cube with her magic and ate it slowly, letting the flavor melt on her tongue.

He worked his way lower still, down to her middle back. He stopped momentarily to apply a few more drops of the oil, which he could start to feel heating under his hooves and aiding in the deep tissue massage. He smiled wide as he pushed down on another knot. "I am glad my spontaneity meets your approval." he said quietly near her ear, keeping his head low as his hooves continued their work.

Her eyes rolled back and her neck slightly to the side as the stallion dug in with his hooves. Shuddering slightly, Rory mumbled "It's more than approved... it's encouraged. Especially if you keep doing things like this..." It was a strange limbo she was in; she was completely and totally relaxed, and yet she craved him.

He chuckled again "I hope you don't expect things in this scale all the time, but I might have set the bar a bit too high with this one. Even I will admit if the tables were turned on me, I would probably have melted into those sheets by now." He really felt the tension in her lower back, just above her hips.

"It would be unfair to expect anything of you, other than respect." She grinned. "And to be honest... I feel like I am melting into the sheets myself." Her tail flicked slightly, swishing gently underneath his. Finally, propping herself up with her forelegs, she turned her head to look back at him. "This is certainly interesting."

"Interesting is only the beginning...." he whispered through his grin.

He knew immediately something was making her uncomfortable and stopped the moment he recognized her distress. "It's OK Rory, don't make yourself uncomfortable on my account." he said, still trying to catch his breath.

She wasn't sure why she was surprised when he stopped, but for some reason she was comforted by it. "I'll be alright... I just... wow. I'm not entirely sure where that came from." She smiled, kissing his nose.

Light nodded and managed a small smile before turning to face her. "No complaints from me, that is for sure. I am glad to see you becoming more comfortable in expressing your, well, desires." he said, finally catching his breath.

Slightly confused, she raised an eyebrow at him. "But... what about you?" She placed a trembling hoof over his chest as her breathing finally eased.

Light turned and kissed her on the nose, giving her leg a slight rub. "I'll be fine. I am still a bit worked up but it will go away in time. Tonight was supposed to be about you anyway."

Somewhat taken aback, Rory simply smiled back and rested her head on the pillow. "I... thank you. You have definitely made me feel special."

Needing to work off some of his pent up energy, Light made his way around the room, blowing out the candles cleaning up a bit of the mess from the massage oil. Finally, he washed his hooves and made his way back into bed.

Still feeling a little guilty, Rory didn't say much when Light returned. "Is there anything I can do to help?"

Light shook his head and turned head to the side away from her, hugging the blanket tight to him. His mind was spinning on how to properly reply. He wasn't sure if it was a mixture of embarrassment, not wanting her to feel bad, or a bit of frustration of her having to ask the question at all. In reality, it was all three that made him feel apprehensive. "I'll be fine, just need to sleep it off love."

She sat up slightly, unsure of what else to say or do. "Oh... alright hon." Stretching her neck, she let herself off the bed and made her way to the washroom to clean herself off. She started the shower on the far side of the room, quickly ridding herself of the massage oil rubbed into her coat. It wasn't long before she was finished, and she hastily dried what she could of her coat and mane, and pulled the mane back into a side braid. Turning out the light, she rounded the corner to face Light once more.

He had his eyes closed, but opened them a slightly when he noticed things got a bit quiet. She was quite attractive in her braid, something new to him on her; it wasn't helping his situation any. He smiled a little, despite the frustration. "Should have thought about the mess I would have made before the bath...sorry to make you wash twice."

Smiling back, she looked down then back to him. "It's alright, no need to apologize for doing something nice." Rory stepped towards him, placing a kiss on his cheek. She didn't say anything, feeling there was still quite a bit of tension between them. She guessed the reason he'd made quick work of clean up was to burn off his frustration quickly; though she wasn't sure it'd helped.

Light nodded, keeping the small smile on his face as he looked up to her. "Coming to bed dear or do you plan on staying up for a bit?" His curiosity of why she was still standing and not getting into bed wasn't making his situation easier. He felt guilty for being frustrated and knew it wasn't justified, but he couldn't shrug the feeling off.

Rory shrugged. "I'm not sure. I'm tired I guess, but I'm feeling wired in a way. Did you want to stay up and talk?" She shuffled a hoof at the floor before trotting to the other side of the bed and sitting on the edge of it.

Light sighed a little, trying to keep it under his breath. "I am always up for talking to you, you never need to ask that." At the least, it would take things off his mind.

Lying down on her stomach, Rory clutched a pillow under her forehooves and shoved the covers down past her rear hooves. She patted the spot on the bed next to her with a small smile. "I know I don't have to ask, dear, but I wanted to."

Turning around carefully, he positioned himself next to her and mimicked her pose. "Something on your mind or just wanting to chit-chat and wind down before bed?" He wasn't sure what was on her mind. He wasn't stupid though; he knew she was aware of his frustration. That fact alone made him feel infinitely more guilty.

Looking to him, she smiled genuinely. "I was hoping just to talk for awhile, wind down. I enjoy my conversations with you, and I'd like to make up for the pitiful excuse of a conversation I gave you on the balcony earlier. I just think my mind was scattered.”

The stallion shook his head. "I wouldn't call it pitiful, but I could tell you were a bit distracted. I figured it was just the subject matter, or at least the timing in which I brought it up. I know there is a lot going on in your head." Light shuffled a bit, still uncomfortable. "And I know when we get back home, I have my own troubles to deal with. But for this weekend, I just wanted to throw that all behind us."

"I know, dear. And believe me, this trip has been absolutely wonderful. I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't terrified for you... but somehow I know things will be alright no matter the outcome." Rory twirled the tip of her braid idly in her front hooves, twitching her tail every few moments or so.

Light put a hoof over hers, a bit of his frustration subsiding. But he knew her signs, picking up on them quickly. She wasn't one to be subtle about her thoughts. "Out with it Rory, I know something is bothering you and it's not like you to keep something from me."

Sighing and shaking her head, she looked away from him. "You know I'm worried about you. I've been worried about you since the night you spaced out in the kitchen. I feel as if I set something off, or as if I'm doing something wrong. I'm terrified that I'm going to mess this up."

Squeezing her hoof, he nuzzled gently into her neck, his earlier frustration now all but forgotten. "Rory, love, you can never mess this up." He sighed then, keeping his head close to her neck. "Truthfully, I don't know what that was all about. But I know it wasn't your fault. Maybe...maybe it's just something I need to explore and deal with. I have been thinking about it a little off and on, and maybe you are right. Maybe I just need closure."

She nuzzled back, sighing once more, but not quite relieved. "I'm glad to know you have such faith in me. I don't have much to offer you, but..." She hesitated, thinking back to their conversation in the bathroom earlier. Shaking her head to regain focus, she continued. "I'm glad you've at least thought about closing that door... it's a start. I can't make the decision for you to go back, and I know it's going to be difficult..." She pulled away to take his face in one of her hooves as she held his gaze. "Whatever the case, you know I'll be with you."

Light slid her hoof gently off his face as he slid his own up to hers. "Now, it's my turn to tell you something. I don't ever want to hear you say you don't have much to offer me. Besides the tangibles, what really means the world to me is the things you provide for me that we often lack the words to describe. Your love and compassion make me feel that no matter what the world throws at me, I know I will always come out on top. Your smile, sense of humor, and loving touch keep this skyborn pegasus grounded, something I have come to not only love, but desire. You see in me, just as I see in you, things that nopony else has ever understood before, and it makes me feel lighter than air knowing I have somepony else to share that with. And I know that no matter what happens, you will always be there by my side to the bitter end."

Leaning forward, he planted a small kiss on her lips. "Rory, my love, you offer me life. A life I have always wanted and never had; a life of pure, untarnished, and boundless love."

When she broke the kiss and pulled back, her eyes were full of tears. Overwhelmed, she buried her face her hooves, and when they failed to stop the tears she hid in the pillow below her.

Wrapping her in his forelegs, he pulled her in tight. "Rory hun, what is it?" He wasn't sure if he said something wrong, or if she was just emotional, but he couldn't help but ask regardless.

She wasn't entirely sure herself why she reacted this way, but nevertheless, she couldn't stop crying. She tried to speak through her sobs, her voice muffled into his chest as she clung to him. "H-how do you do t-that?" She choked. There were a strange mixture of feelings running amok; joy and elation at the things he'd said, security in the way he'd been treating her and going to extreme lengths to make her happy, and there was that pang she felt earlier after dinner. She'd got the thought in her head, and she couldn't get it out. Of course she'd set herself up for disappointment, why should she have expect that anyway? "W-what I really want to say... when I said I didn't have much to offer..." She hesitated once more, before finally just letting go.

"I should have said t-that I had my life to g-give you. That all the promises and desires I disclosed in the bath were real, and that I want no one else in this world the way I desire your companionship."

Smiling and tearing up a bit on his own, he squeezed her a little tighter to him."Of course I knew they were real, and hearing those words from you sent butterflies through my insides. And I am very much looking forward to our journey. As much fun as the future is to think about, I would prefer to live in the moment with you. And you want to know why? I want to remember every, single, little detail about everything we experience. Too many ponies focus on what will be, and look past what actually is. I intend on savoring every single moment we spend together, be it joyous or trying." He paused for a while.

"You have already given me your heart, that is all I need to do my part in writing our story together. As so far, we have a hell of a prologue started."

Aurora laughed a little through her sobs, trembling as he held her. She didn't have any more words to speak; at least not for the time being. She simply clung to him, her sobs growing quieter and her body shaking less as she grew weary. Her breathing eased after a long while, and her eyelids became heavy as she lie there, listening to his heartbeat. Not quite taken by slumber she stirred. "You still awake, Light?" She whispered.

"Nope." he said with a smirk, ruffling her mane slightly. He was winding down from the emotional rollercoaster which thankfully ended on a high note. "What did you mean earlier, when you said 'How do you do that?'?" He was genuinely curious, and forgot to ask caught up in the moment.

She laughed lightly, nuzzling under his chin. "How is it you are capable of completely undoing me? It's like you can see my soul." She whispered.

"You gave me your heart, remember? It's the most powerful yet fragile weapon in the world." He leaned forward slightly to kiss the top of her head slowly as he joined her quiet laughter. "Truthfully love, I just look into your eyes and everything just clicks in my head. I have always been a bit of a romantic...but with you....I don't even need to try. I just know you."

Seemingly content with his answer, she let her forehooves relax and fall between their chests. "I shouldn't even be surprised at this point, but yet you always manage to knock the air from my lungs..." She murmured softly before closing her eyes. There were a few other thoughts that began to form in her mind, but the last thing she remembered was the rhythm of his heartbeat.

Two days later, Light opened his eyes and found himself in an empty bed at home. He peered around for a second before forgetting it was Monday and she had classes. He pulled himself to the edge of the bed and sat up a bit, the gears inside his head turning over what was going to happen today. Was his case as simple as he thought? He sighed as he stood, making his way to the bathroom. Why does he have to put her through this? She doesn't handle stress as well as he does, and shes already going through enough. Why couldn't he just suck it up and take a job pulling carriages or serving food somewhere?

He stepped into the hot shower, and as the water cascaded down around his body, he relaxed a little bit. Was he making the right choice?

It was always disorienting to Rory when she left for classes while it was still dark out, but she had a lot to get started on. She'd stored most of her supplies in her locker in the art building when she arrived, and made her way down the hall for her first class, her last art history requirement. Afterwards she at least had some time for a quick nap in one of the library work rooms, heading back to the art building after lunch for her three hour portfolio work block. The unicorn didn't make as much progress as she'd have liked; even after her nap she still felt tired, and she kept getting distracted by worrying over Light's appointment with the lawyer this morning. It wasn't that she was upset with him, but she feared for him if the case went against his favor. Deciding to take a short break, Rory left her canvas to dry for a bit while she stepped out to take a drink of water and attempt to clear her mind.

The rest of her day was much the same, as her remaining studio classes were in the same room. When left to her own devices, Rory thought of him, and she ached to get home to speak with him about it. Only another hour or so now, and she'd be free to go. She wondered if maybe she should stop by the market on her way home for something special to make for dinner. Whatever the case, she'd see him soon, and it filled her both with excitement, and dread.

It was late evening before Light returned home. He was mentally and physically exhausted from the days events, being out far later than he thought. He assumed she was still awake, or at least left a light on for him, as he quietly and slowly opened the door and stepped inside.

Rory hadn't expected him to be gone so long, and dinner had gone cold before he finally walked in. Doodling idly in her sketchpad, Rory's ears perked when the lock clicked, and she bolted for the door. "Hey, are you alright? How did it go?" She tried to give him some space, but her nervous energy got the better of her and she threw her forelegs around him in a hug, placing a light kiss on his cheek.

A bit overwhelmed, he tried his best not to show his annoyance at being tackled immediately upon arrival. He knew she couldn't help it, but he also couldn't help being hungry and tired. He let her hug him for a second before pushing her back very gently. "Tired, hungry, and it went fine." he said, exhaustion evident in his voice as he took off the scarf he started wearing the other day. "How about you?" he asked, making a beeline for the kitchen, searching for something alcoholic.

Letting out a sigh and following him, she stopped and stood just beyond the counter behind him. "Fine, I suppose. Just the normal routine. Tried taking a nap in the library but it didn't seem to help me feel better." She paused a moment while he rummaged around. "I'll heat up some food for you... is there something I can help you find?"

Light found one of the hard ciders he stashed away a while ago, in case of emergencies during his job hunting excursions. Cracking it open, he took a long pull from it. "Found it." he said catching his breath from the big gulp. "Thanks Rory...for the food that is. I really am famished. But I suppose it was well worth it." He closed his eyes as he took a seat at the table, slinking down until his chin was resting on it; a very dignified pose.

The mare trotted over to the stove, and upon opening the lid to their meal, was hit with a sudden wave of nausea. Distancing herself a bit, she scooped what she could onto a plate with her magic and quickly put it in the microwave. She must have eaten too much, she thought. When the timer went off, Rory levitated the plate and fork to where Light sat, turning a nose up slightly at the spaghetti. Swallowing, she carefully sat down at the other end of the table. "So, I guess that means the case will be as easy as you thought?"

Light immediately dug in, happily sucking down what to him was the best meal he ever had; considering his hunger level. The red splotches of sauce on his white coat near his mouth were evidence of that. "Well, it took four lawyers to finally find one to agree to help me. I was starting to get concerned, but she agreed with me on one thing; the others most likely turned down my case because there was no profit to them. She thinks it will never see the light of trial and they will settle quickly considering what my terms are."

Smiling at him, she let out a sigh of relief. "I'm very glad you at least found help, and that she thinks this will be quickly open and shut." She urped slightly, covering her muzzle with her hoof as another wave of nausea hit. "Excuse me..." Rory sat there a moment more, feeling as if the worst was over, before suddenly bolting towards the bathroom. She hovered over the commode, but the most she did was fight through a spell of dry heaving.

Light sat at the table for a minute, not really understanding what was going on. Finally, he hurried to the bathroom, and did the only thing he could until her episode was over; holding her mane out of her face and rubbing her back affectionately. There was no point in asking her if she was OK, he just patiently waited the episode out with her.

After a few minutes the dry heaving subsided, though a slight nausea still lingered. Trembling, she sat back on her haunches and turned her head away from the toilet. "I'm sorry... I-I don't know what that that was about..." Tears formed in her eyes and she just leaned backwards into his broad chest, bringing her hooves to her muzzle.

Light held her gently and continued to rub her back and mane. "Don't apologize love, I just hope you are ok." He kissed her forehead, closing his own, heavy eyes. "I hope you didn't worry yourself sick today..."

She shook her head. "I don't know. I just felt woozy when I opened the pot of leftovers and the smell just hit me in the face. I think I'll be fine if I just lay down for a bit." She sat there a few moments more, waiting to be sure she wouldn't be sick before attempting to stand. "I admit I was worried... but I didn't think it was quite that bad."

Helping her to her hooves, Light guided her to the couch in the living room. "You really need to stop worrying so much love, especially about me. I am careful about getting in over my head, and I have a reasonable head on my shoulders." He smoothed down her mane a bit, pulling her gently into him. "And let me handle the leftovers for the foreseeable future?" he chuckled lightly, trying to lighten the mood a bit.

Sniffling, she let out a soft chuckle and nuzzled into his chest. "Please do, dear." She adjusted herself so that she was lying comfortably on the couch, with her favorite pillow tucked under her head. "Would you mind giving me a blanket, please?"

Nodding, Light quickly recovered a blanket, a favorite of hers that was odd colors of orange and blue. Covering her up, he made his way to the table and started to clean up. "Anyways, unless you are still ill tomorrow, I need to take a quick trip back to Ponyville and get some records from the hospital there. I would normally send for them, but I am too impatient to wait for mail."

She shook her head. "Even if I were ill, I don't mind you taking a trip. I'll most likely sleep it off." Pulling the blanket up to her chin, she closed her eyes while Light tended to the mess in the kitchen. Lying down did help, but there was still a bit of uneasiness in her stomach.

Quickly finishing the job, he made his way back over to the couch and laid down in front of it, his head near hers. Nuzzling her neck, he asked quietly. "Do you want me to try to get you any medicine or anything? I am sure I can run down to the pharmacy for a pill or potion or something."

She opened one eye and smiled. "It's not a bad idea. I don't know if this will keep up, so it'd be nice to have something on hand. Ginger ale and crackers couldn't hurt either. You sure you don't mind?" She asked meekly.

He leaned over, kissed her forehead, smiled, and stood. "Of course I mind. Maybe next time i'll put more poison in so it will actually work." He rolled his eyes and brushed her cheek with a hoof. "Be back in a jiff love." he said softly before head back out into the dark night.

She smiled, closing her eyes once more and turning her head to face the back of the couch until his return.

About 30 minutes later, Light walked in the front door. Setting down the food and a small, pinkish potion in a clear flask on the table, he carried one more item to the living room and placed it on the end table next to the couch. "Rory hon, you awake?" he whispered very quietly, really not wanting to disturb her if she was asleep.

She turned over and opened her eyes. She was dozing off until she heard movement behind her. "Hey, welcome back." She smiled. "Thanks for going to the pharmacy for me."

He smiled and nodded, making his way back to the table and grasping the potion in his teeth. Making his way back over to her, he set it down on the end table next to the other object, a small, purple unicorn on a stick with a very sad looking mane and tail. "I picked this up from some crackpot pony on the street corner. It was too adorably ugly not to pass up, and I know you love the color purple. I remember when I was little, my parents used to get me a little toy whenever I was sick to help cheer me up." He nodded to the potion. "Drink that, and I'll bring you the ginger ale and crackers later. But you need to let this settle for a bit. Pharmacist said this should keep you straight, unless something more serious is wrong."

She giggled at the trinket, poking at it with her hoof. "It looks about how I feel. How long will this potion take to go into effect?" She asked, carefully sitting up.

"Anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, it just depends on the nature of the discomfort and a few other factors." He smiled and poked her arm playfully. "Be thankful you have a pseudo-doctor for a lover. Comes with all this freaky medical knowledge."

She smiled, taking the potion with her magic and quickly setting the bottle down on the coffee table. She grimaced as the aftertaste lingered a bit, and settled back down on her pillow, rubbing her stomach. "Freaky medical knowledge? I had no idea." She smiled. "Thank you so much for taking care of me. I feel like such a pansy."

He shook his head gently. "Wait till I am sick, then you will see who the pansy is." He laid down next to her again on the floor, letting her stay sprawled out on the couch. "I hope this won't set back work on your projects. I don't want that added stress worrying you."

She shrugged. "It happens. I used to procrastinate a lot when it came to my work, so I know I can perform under pressure when it comes to art." She pulled the blanket up to her neck again and turned on her side to face him. "I should probably go to bed, but I'm too comfortable down here to move." She chuckled, feeling slightly better.

"Just sleep down here tonight then hun. I'll tell you what, i'll get my pillow and a blanket, and i'll join you down here. I know you're not THAT sick, but I really dislike being away from you, and i am sure you can use the company." Light started to make his way back to the stairs before he stopped. "Still want that ginger ale?"

Smiling, Rory shook her head in response to his question. "No thanks, I'll be okay. Thankfully I can sleep in a little tomorrow, my first class isn't until after noon."

Light went over and put the ginger ale in the fridge before fetching his sleeping supplies. He turned off the lights and set up right below the couch. Curling up and snuggling under the blanket, he reached up and took her hoof in his. If he couldn't be next to her, he wanted some piece of her to touch. "I love you Aurora..." he said, feeling oddly sentimental tonight.

Squeezing his hoof gently, she looked down at him behind half closed eyes. "I love you too, Light." She whispered. "You sure you don't want the other half of the couch? There's plenty of room at the other end." She smiled. "I figure you might have another long day tomorrow, and I don't want you to be tired because you couldn't get comfortable."

"I have you to hold on to. I can sleep through anything." he said sleepily. He really wasn't uncomfortable. And he knew she liked to spread out and wanted her to be as comfortable as possible.

"You just..." She sighed, but not out of frustration. "You always know what to say. But if you change your mind, there's always room." She adjusted herself a little more so that her neck wouldn't end up with a pain in it later. "What is your plan for tomorrow? Going back to the lawyer's office?"

"No, remember I said I needed to head back to Ponyville for some paperwork? I need to go back right-away. But it should only be a one-day trip. I'll hop the express trains and should be back around dinner time." He ran his hoof up and down hers, scratching her lightly. "We are making sure to emphasize my service and good work history."

She shook her head, and raised a free hoof to her brow. "Oh that's right, I completely forgot." She laughed, yawning about halfway through. "I guess I really am just off tonight."

Waking early that morning, Light rubbed his eyes, stretched, and stood. The ground wasn't the most comfortable,  but he didn't mind as long as there was a reason. Looking over at Rory, she was still fast asleep, blanket tucked up under her chin. He quietly made his way out of the room and started prepping for his day trip to Ponyville. He tossed a few snacks and some water into a saddlebag before heading upstairs for a quick shower. Throwing his scarf on, he made his way back to the couch, knelt down, and slowly kissed his love on the forehead. "Sleep well angel." he said, brushing back a bit of her mane gently.

The unicorn stirred at his touch briefly opening her eyes and smiling, before returning to her slumber. She had class in a few hours, so thankfully she could afford to sleep in a little. She was up again about an hour after Light Heart left, feeling well enough to attempt going to school. Taking a short shower and pulling her mane back into a ponytail, Rory headed downstairs to collect her things. She made quick work of a few pieces of fruit for breakfast, tucking some crackers and filling a small water bottle before packing up and leaving. She arrived on campus about ten minutes before her allotted portfolio work time, and chose to head straight for the studio. It was a slow day, as most Tuesdays were, and she was able to quickly work through two canvases, thanks to having nothing to listen to but the music coming from her headphones. That's not to say conversation wasn't stimulating, but sometimes Rory just needed to focus on her art. After a few hours. Rory began putting her supplies away for a short break.

That's when she suddenly felt the need to be sick again. Trotting quickly to the restroom, Rory tried to maintain her composure before having another episode in one of the empty stalls. Thankfully it didn't last long, and she did feel a little better afterwards. She still felt uneasy, and decided it would be for the best to finish clearing her work station and heading home for the day.

Just before sunset, Light got off the express from Ponyville and made a quick trot into the market. He made a beeline for the flower shop and waved excitedly to Fairy Floss as he made his way inside.....

"Rory? You home?" He called out, closing the door behind him excitedly before placing his scarf on the rack near the door; he really did come to love that scarf. Waiting for an answer, he made his way to the table to set down the small bouquet he picked up of tulips and tiger lilies.

Rory was upstairs, dinner had long since been put away for the evening. Feeling much better than she was earlier, the unicorn made her way downstairs and greeted Light Heart with a kiss on the cheek. "Hey hon, how was the trip?" She asked, glancing to the bouquet on the table. "Oh wow! These are beautiful!" She smiled, trotting over to smell them while she awaited his reply.

Light shrugged, already knowing where dinner would be after missing a few meals coming home late. "Boring. Train, Hospital. Records room. Lunch. Train. Flower shop. Home." He smiled and walked up to his beautiful lover. "Best part of my day is just beginning though..." he said quietly with a sly grin, parting her lips for a tender kiss. "Been waiting to do that all day."

Suddenly very thankful that she brushed her teeth at least three times today, she leaned into the kiss slightly before pulling away. My day wasn't much better." She didn't really want to go into detail and worry him, but she knew he'd find out sooner or later. "I ended up not feeling well and just came home early. I feel like I slept most of it off, but I think I'll try to go to bed early again tonight in hopes that I actually fight it off." Rory idly twirled her hair as she spoke, bringing her hoof down to open the refrigerator to retrieve a portion of the casserole she made earlier.

"You sure it's wise to try and eat that? Maybe you should stick to something more....simple" he said worried, taking a seat for a second to talk to her. "Perhaps you should think about seeing a doctor? You might have a stomach bug or something."

She laughed. "It's not for me it's for you. Besides, it's not a very heavy casserole, and I'm holding over just fine." She tiptoed around his comment on seeing a doctor. If there was one thing she didn't want to do, that was it. She placed the small container in the microwave and poured them each a glass of water.

Sighing, it was too late to try and take over. "I can reheat my own leftovers hun.....you should be resting." He also knew it was pointless to tell her what she should be doing. His tone dropped a bit as he looked up to her. "And I am serious. If this gets any worse, you are seeing a doctor. The last thing I want is for you to be sick longer than you need to be for a silly reason."

Her ears flattened slightly as she backed away from the microwave. "I've been resting all day, love. I'll be fine." She sighed. "And I promise I'll see a doctor if it gets worse. I just didn't think it was anything serious." Her gaze fell to the floor and her front hoof pawed at it a few times. "I-I'm sorry if I upset you." She stammered, making her way towards the living room.

Sighing, he took the food from the microwave wherever it was in the reheating cycle, the water, and made his way to join her in the living room, sitting next to her. "Rory, I'm sorry. I know you are just trying to be helpful but you need to take care of yourself first. I know my limits and I can handle the mighty microwave myself." He put hoof on her back, giving her a reassuring rub. "Is something else bothering you?"

Her lower lip quivering, she just shook her head. "I don't know... I just don't feel right." She wiped a tear from her eye and turned to face him. "Maybe I should just take tomorrow off school?" She hated to do that so early in the semester, but if it would put Light's mind at ease, she'd do it.

Stroking her mane still, he gently pulled her head onto his neck. "Only take the day off if you can truly take the day off. Don't think about school, don't think about art. Just rest, get better, and see where you are the next day. Forcing yourself through will probably only make you feel worse." He sighed, reclining a bit and pulling her with him. "I'll stay home tomorrow and take care of you. One day hasn't hurt anypony."

She sighed, a few tears falling haphazardly from her eyes and she sniffled. "You don't have to do that, hun." She protested. "I'll take the day off, no art, no school, no cleaning, no cooking. I promise." She hugged him, clinging weakly to him as best she could from the angle she was sitting at, making sure not to poke his chin with her horn.

"Well, for all I know it might be a short day for me as well. Once I deliver the papers I picked up today....she could very well just tell me to come back later." Shifting his weight around, he allowed her to lay her head on his lap while he continued to stroke her mane. By this point, he didn't know if he was doing it for his own comfort, or hers. "Sorry, this should be a bit more comfortable for you."

Laying down, she wiped her eyes. "Whatever the case, don't put strain on yourself just to come back early. If I'm staying in, I'm staying in bed tomorrow." She rubbed a hoof on his thigh, just below where her chin rested.

He sighed, closing his eyes a bit. He wasn't exhausted, he was just worried. "It's never a strain when it comes to taking care of you. You are the most important thing in my life, and a job, lawyer, Celestia, or even the Sun itself won't stop me from doing what I feel I need to do." He opened his eyes, looked down, and gave her a little wink "Don't make me test it."

Smiling a little, she brought a hoof up behind his head and pulled him down to her, kissing him on the cheek. "I don't intend to. It wouldn't be fair to the Sun." She joked, feeling a little better emotionally than she had a few minutes ago.

Chuckling, he closed his eyes again as he brushed her cheek. "I hope this is all over with soon. You're illness, the lawyer, my needing a job....I desire nothing more than a quiet, but fun mind you, life with you. Not this."

She sighed, though not out of frustration or despair. "It's just life, we'll be alright in the end. We just have to jump through one or two hoops to get to the good stuff."

"Life can suck an egg right now for all I care..." he smiled a bit, usually keeping his frustration inside trying to be strong for her. "But I suppose you are right. At least the hoops are not flaming.....I think."

She giggled at that remark. "No, no flames that I can see, dear." Turning so that she lie on her back to face him, Rory opened her eyes. "Even if they were flaming, you'd probably punch them senseless." She grinned.

"Never know you took me to be the violent type. I could never hurt a fly! Well...unless they tried to hurt you. That's a different story..." He realized at this point that he was rambling, but perhaps it made her feel better just to ramble and take her mind off of everything going on. Why not keep it up? "If you could visit one place in Equestria, where would it be?"

She laughed for a bit, until the question he asked caught her slightly off guard. "I have to pick only one? Hmmm..." She pondered a moment, raising a hoof to her muzzle. "Either Canterlot or Neighagra Falls. I can't really decide between the two. What about you?"

"Canterlot....I should take you there someday. It's where I went to school after all." He continued stroking her mane while he thought. "I think where I want to go most..is somewhere not a landmark on any map. A quiet forest nestled in a mountain valley....perhaps a lake at the bottom. I Want to find a place, and all it my own."

“You went to school at the University in Canterlot? Wow, how did you ever afford such a thing?" She asked somewhat incredulously. "I've never had the chance to go, but if I had been able to pay my way, I'd have gone to there for my art instead of here." She paused a moment. "As spontaneous as you like to be, I can't say I'm surprised you'd want to chart a new course."

"Well, Scholarships help. And the money from my....parents.....took care of what that didn't" He clammed up a bit at the topic, his tone dropping slightly.

Sensing his discomfort, she decided to keep the conversation moving onward. "Well, I imagine Canterlot would be an amazing place to visit, much less live there for a while." She twirled her hair idly once more. "Okay, my turn to ask a silly question. If you won the lottery and never had to work another day in your life, what would you do?"

"What would I do? Well...I would probably invest a lot of it, donate a portion of it, and continue working just like I ....well...will be." Light thought for a moment more, before nodding. "Yeah...definitely what I would do."

She smiled. "Smart move." Yawning, she stretched a little as she made herself more comfortable. Using her magic, she levitated her favorite blanket over the back of the couch and laid it atop herself. "So, your turn."

"No, no love, it doesn't work that way. You have to answer the question too." He said, giving her cheek a little as he adjusted the blanket on her. "Don't skimp the rules."

"Blargh." She sighed, flicking her tail a bit. "Well, I'm not sure to be honest. I guess I'd save what I could, pay off what debts I have, and then try to keep my wealth under wraps. But mostly I want to pay off my debts."

"Do you mind if I ask just how much you have?" It's ok if you don't want to share, but I am a bit curious." He wondered if he touched upon something unsettling to her, but he really did no little about her financial situation.

"It's not much, compared to some. I chose to go to smaller schools with cheaper tution. So I'm only set back about ten grand, including interest. I never took out any other form of loan or credit, but paying these off is a big deal. I don't like buying frivolous things when I have a debt to pay." She blew her bangs up away from her eyes. "Once I graduate I'll have plenty of time, I just have to step up and work more hours to be able to make the payments and still maintain my standard of living. But the more I pay off now, the better off I'll be."

"Hard to argue that logic." He didn't want to say anything about his income, or inheritence, would certainly help. He was curious about her money sense, being a topic he hasn't broached with her before. After all..if they were going to....."Worst food or meal you have ever had?"

"Augh, my baby sister, bless her heart... she can't cook to save her life. She tried to make quiche one morning, and I couldn't even stay in the room with the stuff. It was awful. We let candles burn non stop in our house for a week." She laughed. The playful conversation was relaxing, and helped keep her mind off the stress they'd dealt with over the last few weeks.

"For me...I had some...'ethnic food' at a restaurant. I was told to put this sauce on the meal, so I did. It smelled a bit...funny for my taste. But the smell was nothing compared to the taste." HE cringed, the memory flooding back into him. "I scrubbed my tongue with a napkin...nothing helped. Water only made it worse. It was the most foul thing I have ever tasted. If I had sandpaper, i would have scrubbed my tongue raw."

She laughed heartily at that, coughing a few times. "Yikes, I can't say I've ever had anything THAT bad, aside from some awful cough syrup. Let's see..." She thought a while on what her next question would be, wondering which direction to take the conversation. "What's the worst injury you've ever sustained?"

Thinking a bit about this one before answered, Light scratched his head with one hoof while he ran the other down her chest and sides. "Fortunately I have been very lucky in that department. The worst I would say is probably from playing sports. I came very close to breaking a hoof before, bruising it from one side to the other from an impact with another player. I couldn't walk on it for 4 days about, and it swelled up to about one and half times its size. But other than that, just cuts, scrapes, bruises and the like."

She shuddered. "I did break my hoof once. My rear left hoof. I took a nasty tumble down the concrete stairs in my old dorm. I was wearing bedroom slippers, and my hoof caught the edge of a step instead of stepping flat-hooved, and I flew down two flights of stairs. All my weight landed just so on that hoof, and cracked it, nearly to the quick. It was the most excruciating thing I have ever experienced."

Light winced a bit. "Ouch. I have usually been pretty sure-hoofed but I tend to be a clutz from time to time. I walk into edges of doors, miss a step here and there, but I seem to catch myself or find my balance eventually. But nothing that bad...ouch." He thought for a second on the next question, surprised she was still awake but glad for the conversation. "Did you have an enemy growing up as a kid?"

She thought on that for a few moments. "Well, I had my fair share of bullies... and there were kids I didn't always agree with... but I don't think I ever really had it out for anyone. You?"

Light chuckled "Me? No no. I was too good as a kid growing up. I think I had a few kids envy me every year. Or I had one or two that I envied. But I wouldn't say a nemesis."

Rory yawned once more, her eyelids starting to droop. "Here's a lame one; what's your favorite color? I don't think I've ever asked you that." She stretched a little, desperately trying to stay awake. She was enjoying his company.

"Toss up between blue and red....hard to pick which one I like better." He knew her favorite color was purple. "Maybe the combination of the two is just right?"

She smiled once more. "I'd certainly say so... but that's just my opinion on the matter." Rory turned her head to kiss his stomach, mostly because that was all she could reach while maintaining her comfortable position. Gently, she took one of his large hooves in her own.

"Rory love, perhaps you should get back into bed. As much fun as it would be to fall asleep like this, you should get some proper rest. I'll finish up my dinner, clean up, and take care of a few things before joining you."

Too tired to argue, the mare sighed and nodded in agreement. "Don't be too long, I'll miss my snuggle buddy." She smiled, sitting up slowly and wrapping the blanket over her back and shoulders as she stood.

Light quickly lifted Rory’s hoof and gave it a delicate kiss. "Promise. Now go get into bed and get warm. Call down if you need me, for anything."

With a yawn, Rory nodded and wrapped the blanket tighter around her. "I will." Giving him a quick kiss on the cheek, she trotted upstairs, pausing in the washroom to brush her teeth (with the fourth new toothbrush this week), and headed straight to her room. She didn't bother lighting candles tonight, and made sure the curtains were drawn tight against the window. Throwing her blanket over top of her comforter, she snuggled under the sheets and brought the covers up to her neck, closing her eyes.

Watching her go up the stairs, he sighed to himself as he ate his already getting cold food. "I hope you're alright...." he said to himself as he ate, worried about her driving herself crazy to the point of getting sick. Cleaning up the kitchen a bit, his mind wandered from topic to topic. Her sickness, his building case, his frustration at not working, his parents, the future.....

"Ow...." he said sharply, withdrawing his hoof from the sink. A tiny cut on his hoof starting to seep out a little blood as he scowled at the assailant knife in question. "Really need to stop daydreaming..." he muttered under his breath, rinsing it out before wrapping it in a paper towel.

It wasn't long after that he joined Rory in bed, a small bandage on his hoof. He didn't want to bleed on her sheets and freak her out anymore after all.

Wednesday came and went, and Rory's strange illness still hadn't subsided. As promised, she called and made an appointment with her physician for the next available day; Friday. Thankful that she was ahead on her coursework, Rory decided to take the rest of the week off from class, and of course Light Heart was there whenever she needed him.

On that Friday morning, Rory woke feeling nauseous, though thankfully nothing came of it. She quickly pulled back her hair and wrapped herself in legwarmers, boots, a jacket and scarf, and made her way downstairs. "The appointment is in thirty minutes, are you still going to be able to go?" She asked, pulling a small coin purse from the coat rack.

Light nodded, shoveling some pastry in his mouth for a quick breakfast. His meetings with the lawyer were nearing an end with his case prepared; today the subpoena was being delivered to the hospital in an attempt to settle out of court. Brushing off his hooves, he wrapped his scarf around his neck and gave her peck on the cheek. "Let's be off then. I am just eager to figure out what is going on so you can get back to normal."

"Believe me, I am too." She sighed. She had her theories, but would rather wait for a professional opinion before taking any more potions or home remedies. Stepping out and locking the door behind her, Rory tucked her key into her little purse and headed off towards the private practice clinic on the opposite side of town from the hospital.

"It's not too long of a walk, and we'll pass by Cavatelli's on the way home. Maybe we can do lunch?" She smiled. "That is, if it agrees with my stomach." She was half joking, as her nausea hadn't set in today, or rather it hadn't set in yet.

"We'll see, one step at a time, hon. Last thing I want is making you worse." He kept close to her for the short walk, doing his best to keep her warm with the continually cooling temperatures.  "Sorry if I am a bit quiet today, just nervous about the delivery of the letter from the lawyer. I am just hopeful we can resolve something and not let this go any further. That way, we can eliminate one stressor in our life..."

Rory nodded. "I understand, believe me, I do." She snuggled in as close as she could underneath his wing. "I'll be glad when this  lawsuit is behind us." Maybe fifteen minutes passed and they came to a clean, white edifice on one of the busier streets near the financial district. Carefully making her way up the stairs, Rory was suddenly filled with dread. She paused, before pulling the door open and entering, Light Heart right behind her.

There was a very small lobby, where two other mares sat, one with two rambunctious foals ripping into magazines on the coffee table. Gulping, Rory stepped towards the front counter, greeting the receptionist and filling out the sign in chart. When she finished, Rory found two chairs on the far side of the room by the window and seated herself, twirling a lock of hair nervously in her hooves.

Placing a hoof on her leg, he gave it as much of a reassuring pat as he could. "Relax hon, remember, medical professionals are here to help you, not hurt you. The least they can do is tell you what you don't know about what you have. They don't create the problem, just identify it and fix it."

She only nodded in response, letting out a deep breath. After about five or ten minutes, Rory wasn't quite sure, a white mare with a silver mane called her name. "Well, here goes." She whispered to Light, kissing him on the cheek. She stood and approached the mare, and was led down the narrow hallway out of sight. There was a door at the very end of the passageway to the left where she was taken. As instructed, Rory removed her garments and folded them neatly on a bench.

After waiting for what seemed like forever, her doctor's familiar face peered from behind the door as he opened it. "Hello there, Miss Heartnote. It's been a while, what seems to be bothering you?" To which she responded with her strange symptoms over the last week, and the stressors that she was sure factored into it. After a while, the doctor stopped taking notes, and spoke in a calm tone.

"Well, I have a really good guess that it’s just a stomach virus ailing you, but I'll have to test to be absolutely sure. As for the other symptoms, I’ll need a urine sample." Setting everything to the side, he handed Rory a small container and gave her specific instructions. Rory's ears flattened, but she kept her composure as she complied with his orders. When she was finished, her physician took the sample and sent it out for a quick test. He was gone for what seemed like an eternity, and all the while Rory gnawed at her hooves and twirled her poor hair so roughly, one would think it'd fall out.

About an hour after being called back, Rory made her way back out to the lobby on shaky hooves. A small vial poked out of the top of her little purse, as it was too tall to allow it to close. Ears set back and eyes full of tears, Rory cast a glance to Light Heart, motioning for him to follow her outside.

With a confused look, Light followed her out, genuinely concerned as the look on her face was anything but good. His heart was racing, his breath heavy as he followed her outside. "What? What happened?" he said frantically as his gaze was set on the vial in her purse.

Her lower lip trembled as the tears now freely flowed from her eyes. She felt angry, confused, and sick, but most of all; terrified. She didn't know if there was any good way to put this. She just slumped down on her haunches on the sidewalk at the foot of the building's steps and gave Light the most desperate look she'd probably ever expressed. Her body was quaking, and she was  breathing heavily, panicking... until finally she just couldn't see any way to tiptoe around it.

"There were a few different things wrong. The vial is to ease my nausea brought on by a virus... it's caused an alarming amount of weight loss in the last week... considering that..." her voice cracked.

"I'm pregnant." the words were barely a whisper. She hung her head in shame and fear at what would come next.