There are some days when you wish Rarity wasn't so persuasive. Today is one of those days.

Oh it started off innocently enough -- some idle talk over breakfast about what you'd like to do for the day -- but it didn't take long before Rarity had come up with a solution that you weren't exactly fond of. Try as you might to convince her, she remained steadfast in her idea that, of all things, a trip to the spa was in order.

"It's not that I'm against the idea," you continue to object, "it's just that it's my last day off, and the spa is just so...so..." Rarity looks up at you as you try to find the right word, a skeptical eyebrow cocked in your direction. "...girly," you manage to finish. "You know?" You hold your arms out in a vague attempt to convince her otherwise, letting them droop after a moment with a deep sigh. "It's a spa, honey. You know...mud facials and cucumbers and such? Not exactly my thing."

Rarity giggles at your apprehension. "I realize it's not your typical modus operandi, my dear, but really; it wouldn't hurt you to try new things! After all, what could possibly be more relaxing than sitting in a hot mineral-water jacuzzi with a couple of gorgeous mares at your side? Really, you're fretting over nothing." A few small beauty items levitate into Rarity's modest, pink saddlebag. "Now, we shan't waste any more time discussing an otherwise wonderful day-trip. Do be a dear and grab your coat and things, would you?"

And that, you realize, is that. You give up with a grunt and head downstairs, grabbing your hanging jacket and winter cap from a coat rack.

"Just a little trip to the spa, darling" you mimic in your best impression of the fashion mare's refined voice. "Why, just a little bit of primping and preening, and you'll forget you ever even had a penis!"

"What was that?" Rarity asks you, just coming down from the last step.

"Huh? Oh, uh...nothing, hon." You clear your throat as you throw on your jacket, turning away to hide a chortle of amusement.

"...Indeed. Well, it's good to know you're still as easily entertained as ever."

"So, uh, how much do we need to take with us?" you ask her as she sets a small, fuzzy hat upon her head, hoping to change the subject quickly.

"I'm sure you haven't need of anything. I'm simply bringing a few bits and bobs to fix my mane and tail after we've finished." Knowing Rarity, 'a few bits and bobs' will mean four combs, two brushes, and a metric ton of styling spray and curlers. "I'm bringing a few extra for Fluttershy as well, of course. Can't have the poor dear trotting outside with unkempt hair, now can we?"

"Uh-huh," you mutter only half-attentively as you fidget with your knit cap. Originally Rarity had wanted to stick a big, red poof-ball on the top of it, but you shot that idea down pretty quickly. Ever since then, though, your cap has been just a tad too small. Not that you'd ever accuse Rarity of sabotage, of course. Even if she did do it. And you saw her do it.

Which you did.

"Speaking of which, shouldn't we wait for her to show up? I mean, she doesn't even know about this."

"No worries, my love. She will join us shortly. I imagine she's flying here as we speak!"

"Wait...as we speak? How did you..." The rusty gears in your head slowly click over. "...You had this planned, didn't you?"

"Moi?" She asks with a dramatic hoof to her chest. "Surely you can't be serious, darling!"

"I am serious, and don't call me Shirley," you deadpan. Her confused look is all it takes to get an amused laugh. "Nevermind. Point being, you had this planned out well before breakfast. Right?"

"I've no idea what you're talking about," she replies with a barely-hidden smile. "Now, are you going to join me, or shall we wait for a formal invitation?"

You cross your arms in mock-indignation. "Fine. But next time you feel like scheming, let me know about it so I can be gone for the day."

"Oh, hush," she giggles adorably. "Scheming is but one of Miss Rarity's fabulous talents!"

"And what are the others?"

"I think you know that answer already," she answers with a wry smile. "Now, come along. Fluttershy will be expecting us."

The cold air flows over you as you step outside, causing a shiver despite the heavy jacket and (slightly too small) winter cap. The previously cleared walkways have been blanketed with several more inches of snow overnight, as have the roofs of every visible building in Ponyville. Even with the time just passing noon, there's still several pegasi flitting through the sky with clumps of clouds. One of the figures jets off in the direction of Cloudsdale, leaving a long, shining rainbow trail behind it...but not before pulling a few loops and a corkscrew for good measure.

"Always the show-off," Rarity laughs.

Town Hall looms into view after a few minutes, its bell tower -- the tallest object in Ponyville -- adorned with a big, colorful banner that reads "Hearth's Warming Eve is only 6 days away!"

You flinch inwardly at the sign -- six days isn't a lot of time to resolve the situation with Rarity and her friend-turned-lover. You were hoping for a brief respite after Cashmere's emotional confrontation with Rarity, but with that particular incident only a few days behind you it's become clear that time is not exactly on your side. Just how you're going to go about resolving things is something that you've been wracking your brain about ever since. Still, you figure a nice break in a sauna or some-such couldn't hurt. Maybe it'll clear your mind.

As long as they keep the mud and cucumbers away.

Fluttershy manages to find you a few moments later, happily flapping over and hovering beside you, a long, warm-looking scarf around her neck the only sign that it's even a little bit cold out. You reach out and give her a hug, stepping back to let Rarity do the same.

"Fluttershy, darling! So good of you to join us!"

The timid pegasus lands beside you, smiling lightly at Rarity's affections.

"Hello," she says cheerfully. You follow slightly behind the mares as they talk, not wanting to get in the way. "I'm surprised Rarity convinced you to go," Fluttershy quips with an amused tone to her voice.

"She didn't; I was tricked into it. You wouldn't happen to know anything about that, would you?" You ask with a smile on your face to keep it clear that you're not actually upset. She blushes lightly and glances away.

"Umm..n-no...well, that is, maybe."

"Uh-huh. And I'm sure Rarity didn't bring up the idea at some point before this morning, right?" Fluttershy struggles to find an answer, finally resorting to an adorable squeak before turning away. Rarity jumps in for her.

"Oh, don't be so hard on her, darling. Granted, we may have discussed this little adventure prior to my bringing it up at breakfast, but I assure you: You will enjoy the spa just as much as we do!"

"If you say so, Rarity."

"I do. Now, there will be no more accusations being tossed around." Something catches her eye; she turns and looks at it with huge grin. "Would you look at those gorgeous decorations! Why, it reminds me of--"

You tune out most of the ensuing conversation, relatively sure that you wouldn't know what the talkative mares are discussing anyway. From Fluttershy's reactions it seems to be another shared memory. You're glad they're having a good time just being together, even if you're keeping some things from Fluttershy.

For one, neither you nor Rarity have told her about Cashmere's knowledge of your ongoing love triangle. You told her everything else about that night, but it was decided that revealing that someone knew about Fluttershy's involvement would probably end poorly. When you objected and said that you couldn't very well keep such a thing hidden from the entire world forever, Rarity stumbled over herself to find a decent excuse. Ultimately, she simply said "just give it more time". And that was that.

Personally, you don't feel like keeping such a thing from Fluttershy is in her best interests -- or yours, for that matter -- but defaulting to Rarity's judgment has usually proven to be the correct choice in the past.

Usually.

And, of course, there's the engagement necklace, which has been sitting at Aegis' shop for weeks now. He's been as friendly and supportive as ever, but you feel bad that you haven't been able to pick it up. You just want him to be able to see your reaction.

Tomorrow, you keep telling yourself. Tomorrow I'll pick it up.

Just where you're going to store it, though, you have no idea. But, one thing at a time.

It's an uneventful walk to the opposite end of Ponyville, where a large, rounded building occupies a space all by itself. Its design reminds you of a three-tiered wedding cake, but with more sweeping curves. A large mosaic covers one side of the building, displaying a stylized waterfall and hot springs with the words "Soothing Springs Day Spa" written in elegant cursive lettering.

Rarity, of course, is all over it as soon as she sees it.

"Oh, I simply cannot wait!" She excitedly trots in place, a huge, toothy grin on her face. Fluttershy's reaction is a little more understated; a simple smile and a quick flap of her wings. "Darling, you are going to just love Aloe and Lotus! They are the pinnacle of care and luxury. And, might I add, quite the attractive pair."

Your mind immediately starts to wander to what Rarity said about them so many weeks ago -- something that is clearly not lost on Rarity.

"And no, before you ask: We will not ask them to make out with each other. Even for a large sum of bits. Much as I may hypothetically enjoy such a thing."

Fluttershy's eyes widen at the statement, getting an amused chuckle from Rarity.

"Simply an in-joke, my dear. Now! Let's stop dilly-dallying out here in the cold, and slip into something far more comfortable! Namely, nothing at all, hmm-hmm."

As soon as you step into Soothing Springs a wave of warm, wet air flows over you, a welcome relief from the chilly afternoon. Immediately you pick up a vaguely flowery smell; not something you'd generally go for, but it's not overly strong. It's a smell Rarity is apparently very familiar with.

"As wonderful as always," she beams. A quick look around shows a big desk in the center of the entrance lobby, with two hallways branching off on either side. Before you can ask about the place, a pair of strikingly attractive earth pony mares trot out from a back room, color-swapped mirror-images of each other: Pink coat and blue mane for one, blue coat and pink mane for the other. Both of them have dark blue eyes and wear matching sets of white headbands -- almost like a bandanna -- and white neckbands, dotted with a large, opposite-color gem in the middle.

Wow, is your first thought. Then you idly wonder how many bits you have...

"Hallo!" The blue one says cheerfully. "Welcome to Soothing Springs Day--" Her eyes widen as she recognizes just who you're with. "Miss Rarity! Oh it's so good to see you again!"

The mare quickly gallop out from behind the counter and throw their forelegs around Rarity, turning her into the lettuce in a twin sandwich. You can't help but be a little jealous. And maybe a little aroused.

"We were just discussing the week's business, and how we hadn't seen you for quite some time!" The other mare -- the pink-coated one -- gives Rarity a kiss on each cheek.

"We're glad you could stop by again, and bring Miss Fluttershy with you, no less! And this tall, handsome fellow...he must be your loving stallion, no?"

There's a certain accent to the girls, but you'll be damned if you can precisely pin it. It's vaguely...European? Northern, maybe. You wish you could place it more accurately -- the only real accent you could definitely identify would be Dutch, and only because that always seemed to be the accent that was screaming over comms back in your days of MMO gaming. In any case, it explains the cheek-kiss greetings.

Rarity returns the kisses in turn, getting an eyebrow from you. She puts a foreleg around each of the mares at her side. "Indeed! Aloe, Lotus, this is the man I've told you so much about; the love of my life and the source of endless inspiration. We finally managed to drag him along," she giggles.

"Hello," you say with a polite smile, introducing yourself in turn. "Nice to meet you, Aloe. Lotus." You nod to each of them, hoping you got their names right. "Rarity's always going on about you two. I figure she knows what she's talking about after all this time."

"I should certainly hope so," Rarity quips.

"I'm actually kinda surprised about your reaction to me. Or lack there-of, I should say. Most ponies are a little more...surprised...when they see me for the first time." Not that you're complaining.

"Don't be silly," the blue one -- Lotus? -- answers with a laugh. "Miss Rarity has shown us pictures of you many times! You're quite a bit taller in person. Isn't he, sister?" Hmmm...Swiss? No. Maybe Norwegian. Or...

"Oh yes, very much so! We are not ones to judge, sir. As we've always believed, whatever keeps you feeling happy and loved is all a pony can ask for in life. Or homen, in your case!"

"Human," you correct her. Rarity chortles at the mispronunciation.

"Silly me! But, we imagine you haven't come here to hear us talk your ears off, yes?" Lotus turns to Rarity with big smile. "So! What shall it be for the three of you, hmm? Perhaps a calming oil massage? It's wonderful for the coat and skin! Oh, or maybe our special 'One with the Earth' package? I hear does wonders for aches and pains -- both of the body and the mind."

The first image that pops into your head of the 'One with the Earth' package involves being dunked into mud and having to be chiseled out of it. And there's probably bits of grass and twigs and...ugh. The massage sounds nice, though...

Rarity catches the look in your eye and jumps in before you can worry yourself too much.

"Ah, I believe we'll go with the Relaxation treatment, as Fluttershy and myself tend to enjoy. We'll simply have one more this time."

"Of course!" the twins answer in unison with cheerful smiles. "First things first," Aloe -- at least, you think it's Aloe -- says as she points a hoof down the hallway to the left, "we need to get you out of that stuffy winter clothing! If you'll follow me?"

You fall in line behind the train of attractive mares, deciding that, all things considered, it could be worse. A lot worse. Your curiosity gets the better of you as you pass by the numerous labeled doors, taking advantage of your height to peek through the foggy widows just above each door's label. 'Hot Springs Room 1' looks to be empty, as does the one after it. 'Wellness Center' -- whatever the hell that is -- does have a yellow-ish mare lying on a massage table, but besides a general color and shape you can't pick out specifics. You shrug and turn your attention back to the twin mares in front of you, taking note of the way they flick their tails up as they laugh with Fluttershy.

You may be getting married, but you didn't go blind.

A door off to your left opens as Aloe slides a key into the lock. She opens it wide and offers you a warm smile. "If you would like to leave your things in here, I assure you they will be quite safe. Whenever you're ready, simply come find us at the desk and we will begin!"

You let Rarity and Fluttershy step inside ahead of you before heading in yourself, finding a small, rounded room decorated with a long bench and several small dressers. A coat rack sits at one end, which Rarity wastes no time adorning with her fashionable, and expensive, winter coat.

The door shuts behind you, leaving the three of you to your privacy.

"Well, they're very...nice..." you say as you remove your cap and begin unbuttoning your jacket. "And, you know, friendly. Very friendly."

"Oh come now, darling," Rarity laughs quietly, "there's no need to be ashamed of finding them quite attractive. Goodness knows I do."

"They're, um...very pretty," Fluttershy adds, pulling her only article of clothing -- her long scarf -- off with her teeth. It gets neatly folded and placed in a dresser drawer. "You don't see many twins in Ponyville, especially ones who take such good care of themselves."

"Quite so, Fluttershy. Aloe and Lotus are simply fabulous in every way. And, might I add, quite fetching in those head-and-neckbands." Rarity's fuzzy hat and winter boots are placed in a neat pile beside the dresser, followed by a big, satisfying stretch as she stands up on her hind legs briefly. "As much as I love this fashion, there is simply nothing like being comfortable in my own coat and skin at times!"

You have to remind yourself that while they're technically nude, it's not exactly the same thing as you're currently feeling so apprehensive about.

"Come now, darling, we can't begin our relaxing day of pampering if you're still dressed for snow."

You shrug out of your jacket and hang it up, then remove your boots and socks...but stop midway through removing your shirt. "Uh, honey, I'm not sure how far I'm supposed to go with this..."

"Oh, don't be ridiculous. There's nothing to be ashamed of here; we are all one with our bodies, so to speak." Just for emphasis, she focuses briefly on you with a bit of magic and unbuckles your belt, yanking your pants down to your ankles faster than you can object to.

"Hey! I wasn't ready to--"

"Ah-ah! No arguing with Miss Rarity."

Fluttershy hovers beside you with a reassuring smile, placing her forelegs against your stomach. "It's okay, I know it feels strange the first time. I, um...I tried to go in a summer dress when Rarity first brought me here. But Aloe and Lotus are very professional! I promise."

She begins lifting up on your shirt, and you relent a few seconds later and let her lift it up over your head. She folds it into a nice, neat square and kisses your cheek. "See? That wasn't so hard."

"Yeah, I guess," you chuckle. It's not really the thought of being stripped down in front of Rarity and Fluttershy that bothers you -- you do it every night as is before you take a shower or head to bed -- but being in your skivvies in front of the spa twins? A little weird.

"So, I guess we should go, then?"

"Not quite," Rarity replies.

"Hmm? Why not?"

She lifts a hoof and points exactly where you were afraid she was going to.

"What? No. No no no no no. Maybe you haven't noticed yet, but I don't have a coat."

"Oh, don't be such a wet blanket," she scoffs. "Nopony is going to say a word about it. Especially when the topic in question is a strapping, sexy example of the human physique such as yourself. Think of it as...spreading knowledge!"

"Spreading knowledge," you repeat flatly. "Knowledge of what, my junk? Even if I was around other humans I wouldn't exactly be walking around with my dick hanging out in the air. Pardon my language, 'Shy."

"We are going as nature intended, darling," her horn flares bright blue, "whether you want to or not." You realize just a split second too late what she's doing, and by the time you can reach for your boxers they've already been pulled down and floated into the air beside you. "Really, sometimes I think I'm caring for a foal and not a grown man."

"Yeah, very funny." You walk to the other end of the room and pull a large, white towel off the wall hanger, wrapping it around your waist. "Fine, I'll go in the buff. But I'm taking the towel with me." Rarity gives you an exasperated look. "Think of it from my perspective, Rarity: I'm going to be walking around with a quartet of attractive mares, all of which are mouth-level with, uh...myself...when they're on all fours. I'm only a man at the end of the day."

She rolls her eyes and laughs at your worries. "Darling, I don't know what sort of fantasy world you live in, but not everypony is just chomping at the bit to fellate you! That particular honor goes to moi, naturally," she laughs with a playful, seductive edge. "Besides, you're not the first stallion Aloe and Lotus have seen at the spa. I'm sure they're used to such things as simple part of a body's natural functions."

"If it's all the same to you," you say as you tuck the towel into itself to keep it secure, "I'll keep my functions hidden for the time being."

Fluttershy giggles at Rarity's facehoof, hooking her foreleg into your arm. "You can stick with me if you're nervous. It's okay."

"Well at least someone's supportive," you joke at Rarity's expense. She responds by sticking her tongue out. Classy! "Alright, let's get this froo-froo pampering crap over with. I have other things I could be doing right now, like quietly reading a book. Or banging my head against the wall." Rarity scoffs at your statement, trotting past you to the door.

"Remember how I said I would culture you even if it kills me? I'm beginning to rethink that statement; it is increasingly apparent that death would be simpler."

"Love you too," you chuckle. Fluttershy follows Rarity back into the hallway, with you bringing up the rear and shutting the dressing room door behind you. Hanging on the walls, you notice for the first time, are collections of small, framed photographs. You curiously glance at them as you head back down the hall, having no idea who most of the ponies in question are. They all share one thing, though: Aloe and Lotus on either side, smiles as big as can be. A certain pony catches your eye in one of the photographs: A mare with big, pink glasses and some sort of expensive-looking outfit. In fact, you're relatively sure it's the same one who was causing such a scene on the stairs way back at the Stalliongrad charity event. You'll be damned if you can place a name, though.

One of the last photos is definitely one you recognize: Princess Celestia, in all her towering, royal glory. Aloe and Lotus are hardly more than half her size. Still, that same warm, comforting smile you can still so clearly remember stares back at you from the picture.

I wonder what she'd think of all of this, you idly wonder. Your first encounter with the living deity (and her sister) was also your last. In a way, you really wish it wasn't. You couldn't place your finger on it, but there was just something about being around her that felt so...calming. Like she was radiating an aura of peace and happiness.

Well, until you passed out from pain and spent the rest of the day recovering from a traumatic mind-invasion. But that couldn't be helped. At least they tried.

You would have never guessed that you'd be in such a strange situation now, nearly two years later, caught in the middle of so much drama and uncertainty. With one problem finally cleared up -- hopefully -- you've shifted your free time trying to figure out what to do with Fluttershy. She happily converses with Rarity as you walk, but your mind is elsewhere.

You can hear her voice in your head even as your hope against hope that something -- some sort of easy, why-didn't-I-think-of-that-before solution -- comes to mind.

I love you, the voice repeats, both of you.

You let out an involuntary sigh, causing Rarity and Fluttershy to turn and look at you.

"Are you alright, darling?"

"Huh?" You blink away the thoughts. "Oh, yeah. Sorry, guess I'm kinda tired or something."

"Ah. Well, no need to worry, my dear! I assure you you'll leave feeling completely relaxed and at-ease."

You can only hope.

Aloe and Lotus are waiting as you round the corner, one of them writing on a clipboard with a pencil held in her mouth. How non-unicorns cope with simple tasks, you'll never know.

"There you are!" Aloe says cheerfully. "Isn't it much better being out of that hot, heavy clothing?" Fluttershy and Rarity voice that approvals, but you remain quiet, hoping your towel won't be noticed. Of course, that's like hoping no one will notice a watermelon in the middle of a bucket of apples.

...I've been around AJ too much.

"Is there a problem, sir?" she asks you, pointing at your towel. "I assure you there is nothing to be worried about. We are, after all, professionals."

"I know," you quickly answer, "but if it's all the same, I'd like to keep my towel. Uh, for the time being, anyway."

The girls all giggle at your apprehension; you can feel your face flushing bright red.

"You'll have to excuse him," Rarity explains, "humans lack a protective coat, so my darling dearest is feeling rather bashful. Aren't you, darling?"

You grumble an answer. Rarity just shrugs.

"He'll warm up to the place," she says nonchalantly. "So! What do we have in store first, ladies?"

"Well, Miss Rarity, I believe we will start with a nice, soothing dip in the hot springs. The minerals in the water work wonders for the skin!" Aloe laughs quietly, adding, "for a moment I'd forgotten how often you're here. We are so used to explaining the treatments for new customers, aren't we, sister?"

"Oh yes, very much so." Lotus sets the clipboard down on the counter, motioning for you to follow her. "This way, please." You follow behind her to the opposite hallway, stopping in front of a large, wooden door marked 'Hot Springs Room 4'. With a quiet 'clack' the door unlocks and swings open. The air considerably warmer and wetter than the hallway, but pleasingly so. You take a deep breath and let it out slowly; maybe this won't be so bad.

"Here we are! Now, we shall let you enjoy the soothing waters for as long as you please, but do take care to not get wrinkled too much," she giggles. "When you feel sufficiently relaxed, simply press this button here--" she points to a big, yellow button next to the door, "--and we will be along shortly to take you to the next step of your treatment. With a wave and a polite smile she closes the door behind you, offering one last "Enjoy!" before shutting the door.

Rarity is wasting no time, clearly having done this several times before. She trots over to one end of the steaming water, testing it with a hoof.

"Marvelous," she says quietly, smiling lightly to herself. "How those two manage to keep these springs so perfectly heated is beyond me, but I shan't question something so pleasant."

Fluttershy timidly approaches the water, not so convinced by Rarity's enthusiasm. "It's not...too hot, is it?"

"Fluttershy, my dear, it's a hot springs. Of course it will take a moment to get used to the heat, but I really don't understand the apprehension. How many times have we done this now? Dozens, at least?"

"I know, but I always worry that it's going to be too hot and I'll burn myself..." She carefully pokes at the water, pulling away with a yelp. "M-Maybe a few minutes to slowly get used to it."

"Oh come now, it's not that bad." Rarity fluffs her curly mane, muttering something about having to style it again. Slowly, she lowers herself into the steaming water, letting the water come up to her neck with a satisfied sigh. "Ohhhh goodness, that is simply divine."

She lifts a foreleg up and wraps it around Fluttershy's, easing her into the water next.

"Come now, darling. You'll find it quite enjoyable."

Fluttershy lets out a gasp as she first touches the water, but soon relents and sits on the edge, letting her hind legs soak in the water.

"I'm okay like this for now," she says quietly, kicking her legs back and forth with a pleased smile.

"That just leaves you, my love." Rarity pats the edge next to her, motioning for you to join them. "And for goodness' sake, do be an adult and lose the towel, would you? It's just us." You relent and remove your last bit of modesty, taking a quick peek to make sure the spa twins aren't watching you. Satisfied, you let the towel drop the floor, grinning as Rarity arches a playful eyebrow and bites her lip.

"Mmm. That's more like it."

Fluttershy nervously glances away, blushing red under her yellow coat. You're not sure if it's from embarrassment or heat, but you have a pretty good inkling it's the former.

"It's nothing you haven't seen before," Rarity reminds her. "It is simply anatomy, nothing to be ashamed of." She turns back to you before adding, "Wonderful, amazing anatomy." You're not sure how to respond with Fluttershy so obviously bashful. You settle on a wink and a playful laugh, as opposed to pouncing on Rarity and proving her right. She scoots over to let you sit next to her, smiling as you slowly lower yourself into the hot water. It only comes up to your chest, so you have to lay back more to soak any higher up, but it does feel really good.

"Ohhhh man...that's nice." You let out a deep breath and clear your mind, reluctantly admitting to Rarity that she was right. At least, so far.

"I hate to say 'I told you so, darling, but...'"

"Yeah, yeah," you laugh. You lean over and give her a loving kiss, then rest your head against the edge of the hot springs and close to your eyes to relax. No one says a word for a long time, simply enjoying the serenity and comforting, gentle slosh of water as it laps against the rounded rocks of the springs. You reach an arm out and pull Rarity into you, letting her rest her on your shoulder. She lets out a happy "hmm" as she does, running a hoof up and down your arm. A moment later she motions for Fluttershy to join you. The quiet pegasus slowly slips herself into the water, straddling Rarity's leg with a light smile. Her long, pink mane and tail floats on the surface of the water, intermingling with Rarity's in a pool of mixed colors. She lays her head back on the cool rocks and exhales softly, still gently kicking her legs idly.

"This is so nice," Rarity finally says quietly after several long, wonderful minutes. "The two loves of my life sharing a relaxing day at the spa. I simply could not ask for more." She smiles up at you and kisses you gently, then does the same for Fluttershy. "You know...today is the first time we've ever been here together, all three of us." She runs a hoof down Fluttershy's chest and says, "It's also the first time Fluttershy and I have been here since, well...we've become so much closer." She reaches up a strokes Fluttershy's cheek, getting a soft smile in return. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere else right now, my loves. Not for all the bits in Equestria."

Fluttershy bites her lip nervously. "Umm...I don't really know how to say this, but, well...thank you. Both of you. For giving me a chance." She sloshes the water with a hoof, giggling softly. "And I was so worried about all of this," she says. "I didn't want to invade your lives or mess up such a beautiful relationship. You didn't have to be so welcoming and gentle and loving, but you were. Umm, that is, you still are, but...you know what I mean." Her wings unfurl in the water and slowly move back and forth as she thinks of what to say. "I know it was a lot to ask," she says to you, "but I think you've been absolutely wonderful."

Oh no. The thought flashes into your mind for a split second. Part of you loves hearing her compliment you as being a great person, but another part knows that any praise heaped your way is only going to complicate matters further. I just...need to focus. That's all.

"You and Rarity are the most loving, passionate couple I've ever seen. The fact that you'd take me in just goes to show that you have a very kind heart."

It's going to be hard enough as is...

"And, um, once we really had the chance to sit down and talk about ourselves, talk about our lives...I saw who you are. In a deeper sense, I mean. I know I'm still very much an outsider to you, and I realize that, but for what it's worth...I, umm...I love you just as much as I do Rarity." She thinks for a moment before adding, "I've known Rarity for a long time...and I wish I would have been able to do the same with you."

Against all objections, you feel a lump forming in your throat.

God damnit.

"So no matter what happens...thank you. Rarity fell in love with someone she can be proud of. And, um...so did I."

You stare at her for a long moment, your mouth working up and down but nothing coming out in response. You really can't think of anything to say -- Fluttershy's heart-felt confession has left you grasping at straws, trying to find some sort of solution. But you realize a hard truth: There isn't any. Not for now, at least. As much as you try to tell yourself otherwise sometimes, you really have felt something very real with her. Maybe not the same level of honest, unjudging romance that she's admitted to, but could you really just blurt out "I don't see a future for you with us"? Somehow you doubt it. Having her in your life for these long months has certainly made you more fond of her than you used to be. She was so pleasant at dinner, after all...

Rarity takes you silence as some kind of shock -- which you suppose it is. Little does she know the thoughts racing through your head aren't so straight-forward.

"Oh, darling, I don't blame you for being speechless," she says with a warm smile. "Having one such as Fluttershy pour her heart out to you must be somewhat overwhelming. Goodness knows she reacted the same way when I said the same thing."

You move closer to the mares at your side, running a hand through Fluttershy's wet, hanging mane. She looks into your eyes with a questioning tilt of her head.

"I'm sorry, that wasn't too forward, was it?" she asks timidly. "But I've had these feelings for you -- both of you -- since we went out to dinner together and had such a nice time. I really feel like I, umm...belong, I guess. You're not upset, are you? Please don't be..."

You want to tell her about the necklace. You want to yell out that you're intent on getting married within the week. You want to tell her that you really do feel something for her, but not as strongly as you do for Rarity. You want to wave a magic wand and have this all just stop being so complicated. But you can't. You definitely can't tell her with Rarity around, either. Your mind is racing a thousand miles an hour to try and find the right words to say. Rarity's looking at you expectantly. Fluttershy's entire world could be rocked by a few mischosen words.

When the words finally do come out, it almost feels like someone else is saying it for you.

"I...I love you too, 'Shy."

Things slowly come back into focus; do you really love her? You certainly care for her a great deal. Maybe 'love' is too strong of a word. Maybe. But from the expression on her face, it's clear that she's overjoyed. You just can't bring yourself to break her heart this way. Not here, not now.

One thing at a time.

"Y-You do?" she asks you, her wings popping out in surprise. "Really?"

"Really," you answer, putting on a smile. "You're Rarity's best friend, and if she can be brave enough to profess her feelings on such a delicate matter, then I have no excuse not to do the same. Especially after something so...touching. Thank you." You grasp her hooves between your hands and smiles warmly. Fluttershy gently rubs her nose against yours, giggling softly.

Rarity, of course, finds the entire exchange adorable.

"Awwww," she fawns, holding a dramatic hoof to her chest, "how wonderful! And here I thought getting you to warm up to Fluttershy was like...trying to stop a Hydra from eating you by explaining what love is! Some things are easier said than done." She kisses your cheek over and over, overjoyed with your acceptance of her life-long friend. "I knew you'd come to see things my way, darling. Fluttershy is the best friend and confidant one could ever ask for, and I'm proud to say that I love her. And now, so can you."

==========

The rest of the spa visit was just as relaxing and enjoyable as could be expected...for Rarity and Fluttershy. While they happily conversed and laughed and reminisced, Fluttershy's confession of her true feelings for you replayed in your head, over and over again. You did manage to at least push the thoughts away long enough to enjoy a very nice massage from Aloe and Lotus -- who, despite not having fingers, sure knew their stuff.

They did, however, want to give you a mud facial. That was shot down pretty quick.

As you walk back home with Rarity and Fluttershy at your side -- and feeling decidedly more 'pampered' than you had been a few hours prior -- you keep thinking that you should have really said something sooner, before it built up to what it is now.

Flashes of Rarity's confrontation with Cashmere appear before you, with the conflicted, angry, resentful Cashmere pouring her heart out over Rarity letting their relationship progress for as long as it did, even though Rarity had no intention of pursuing it in the long term. It was a system shock so painful that Cashmere held it inside for nearly seven years, stewing in jealousy and heart ache. And now, you realize, you're on the same path with Fluttershy.

You really don't want to have to tell her that you have no future plans for her, but given the alternative, well...it couldn't be worse than waiting even longer and having both of them ultimately end up upset with you. The negatives far outweigh the positives...even if those positives involve a mare you've actually grown quite fond of since she joined your lives.

"Oh goodness, that was simply to die for!" Rarity enthusiastically exclaims, sticking a hoof in the air for emphasis. "We've had some wondrous trips to the spa in the past, but this may have just been the best in quite some time." She looks up at you with a big, affectionate smile. "Thank you for joining us, darling. Even if you did have to be somewhat convinced to come along."

"It wasn't as bad as I thought," you reply with a shrug. "Aloe and Lotus are pretty damn good at what they do. Easy on the eyes, too."

"That they are," she giggles. "You see? A nice soak in the hot springs and a relaxing massage, and all of your worries just drift away."

If only.

"Perhaps we can make another trip some time, hmm?"

"One thing at a time, hon." You laugh and place a hand across her shoulders. "I still wish they would have let me keep the towel on for the massage, though."

You briefly flash back to Rarity struggling to contain a laugh as Lotus asked you to turn over on the massage table, and how you'd hesitated...and for good reason. 'You shouldn't keep Miss Lotus waiting' she'd teased you. So you'd turned yourself over, your face flushed bright red as you found yourself standing at attention from the (very enjoyable) back massage. Fluttershy had turned away with a quiet 'eep', leaving you with just Rarity's barely-hidden chortle.

'Well, at least we know that part of you is functioning as intended', she'd joked. You grumbled something about her not helping the situation. Fortunately, Lotus was a consummate professional who was clearly used to such...reactions...to her services. She simply asked you to lay back, and continued with a shoulder and chest massage, ignoring your excited self. It took a few minutes to calm yourself down, and she hadn't said a word about it even as you were paying for the visit, but still...not your finest moment.

"Yeah...that was a little awkward."

"So I imagine! Had I known you had such reactions to a nice massage in the past, I would have studied up on it! Perhaps we can try later, hmm? Then you won't have to worry about your body's very understandable reactions."

"Hey, I'm all for happy endings," you chuckle.

"As am I. Who knows? I could always use another set of hooves, and Fluttershy does just so happen to sleep in the same bed..." Fluttershy blushes bright red, dipping her head in embarrassment and flattening her ears.

"Relax, my dear," Rarity laughs, "I'm only joking."

"Oh...okay," Fluttershy answers. "Oh, but don't think I don't like being, um, close to you two. I enjoy it very much!"

"And we enjoy having you close, darling." Rarity reaches a hoof out and brushes it through Fluttershy's long, pink mane. "We love you sincerely and without reservation." She turns to you and adds, "don't we, my love?"

"Definitely," you answer with a light smile. Fluttershy seems content with the answer, returning to a happy trot at your side with her scarf bouncing behind her in the light breeze.

"So!" Rarity nearly shouts, "What shall we do for the rest of the night, my dears? I could make us a fine dinner with some wonderful glasses of wine to accentuate the tastes, and perhaps we can put on some music and talk and--"

"I know what I'm gonna do," you interrupt. She gives you a quizzical look. "I'm gonna lay down and read until I fall asleep." She cocks an eyebrow at your less-than-exciting idea.

"Be careful, darling, or you might pop a blood vessel from all the excitement," she deadpans. "Reading? Really? That is your big plan for the night?"

"Well..." You bend down and whisper in her ear, smiling as her eyes widen at your 'other' ideas.

"Oh, my! I, ah, believe that will have to wait until after dinner. I'm going to need to freshen up first...and possibly loosen up as well..." After a moment she playfully bites her lip and adds, "I like the way you think."

==========

"So, you girls have any plans for Hearth's Warming Eve?"

You spoon another helping of mixed vegetables with garlic sauce onto your plate, letting out a quiet belch after asking. Thankfully they don't seem to notice.

"But of course, darling! Why, it would simply be unthinkable if we weren't involved in this year's play! Wouldn't it, Private Pansy?" Rarity giggles and pokes Fluttershy with a hoof.

"Oh, absolutely, Princess Platinum," Fluttershy laughs adorably. "Getting to take part in the annual Hearth's Warming play is a very big honor. The girls and I have been doing it for several years, and it's always so much fun. Umm, even if Rainbow Dash takes her role too seriously sometimes..."

"She's simply getting into character," Rarity answers. "If I may say so, I believe the play itself improves every year. It's quite the spectacle, especially for those unfamiliar with the story behind Hearth's Warming Eve. Would you believe all three races of pony used to have their own kingdoms? Such animosity and segregation used to be the norm, unbelievable though it may sound these days. Of course, this was before the Princesses held positions of power, or were even born yet, I believe. Just to give you some idea.

You nod after taking a mouthful of pasta, being careful to wipe your mouth -- something Rarity has drilled into you -- before speaking again. "Yeah, Twilight's said as much. Haven't talked history with her in a few months, but she just loves the stuff. Maybe I can drop by tomorrow and have her explain the whole thing to me." You stop yourself before taking another bite, adding "well, maybe not the whole thing, or I'll be there all day."

"Probably a wise move," Rarity agrees. Something white and puffy catches the corner of your vision, and you turn to see Opal walking around the table before sitting down and staring at you from her personal, very expensive cat cushion.

"Wha?" you ask her, a mouth full of food. She answers with a questioning 'mrow?', then jerks her head toward her (also very expensive) crystal food dish. "Oh, right. Sorry."

Rarity is all sympathy and baby-talk as you stand up to fetch a can of cat food, floating Opal over in a blue cloud of magic...even as her beloved cat grips her pillow for dear life, still clutching it tightly as Rarity pulls her over and nuzzles her affectionately.

"Awww, is mommy's widdle baby hungwy?" Fluttershy giggles at the cutesy-wootsy talk, something Opal is decidedly not happy about. "It's okay, daddy will get you some num-nums!"

You mentally facepalm at the statement. "Jesus, Rarity, you act like Opal's still a kitten." You look up at her and stick your tongue out, getting a response in kind. "Maybe we should give her bread crusts and water tonight for scaring the crap out of me. Again."

"Oh, hush," Rarity objects, petting Opal with a hoof. "Really, how many times must you be surprised by her habit of sleeping in our dresser? One would think you'd learn by now."

"One would think," you echo.

"Who's to say she's not a kitten? She's still an adorable kitty-witty to me!" Not surprisingly, Opal lets out an annoyed purr at Rarity's continued affections. "Do hurry with that food, darling, Miss Opal is not fond of waiting."

"Miss Opal is not fond of anything," you flatly reply. The cat food slumps down into the expensive dish with a wet 'splat'. Opal looks over at her impending meal and turns away, reaching out to try and stab a claw into Rarity's pasta.

"No, sweetie, that's mommy's dinner." Opal hisses annoyedly and stretches a paw out again, only to have it gently batted away. "Opal, darling, you must behave yourself. Such uncouth behavior is not the mark of a true lady." Opal, of course, ignores her, struggling in her forelegs to get a taste of something less brown and mushy-looking. "Opalescence! Really, you're being--"

"Opal." You and Rarity turn to look at Fluttershy, who has hopped down from her chair and is eye-balling Rarity's cat with as much height as she can muster. She even has her wings spread out to look that extra bit authoritative. "No. Your food is there." Fluttershy points a hoof at the crystal bowl in your hand; you quietly walk over to the designated spot on the floor and place it down, along with a bowl of cold milk pulled from the fridge.

"You should not bother Rarity when she's eating, it's very rude. Do you understand?" With a final bit of emphasis she widens her eyes at the bratty cat. Opal's expression changes from stubborn annoyance to cautious acceptance, and she eyes Rarity with as innocent of an expression as she can manage.

"Don't look at me, Opal. Fluttershy is entirely right." With a defeated 'mrrrr' the cat hops down from Rarity's lap, carrying her cushion in her mouth. She sets it down and looks at the crystalline bowls, briefly glancing up at the three of you before lapping at her milk. Fluttershy smiles at her once things have settled down, a cute expression of joy on her face.

"There, see? That's much better. Thank you for listening, Opal."

You finally take your seat and scoot it back in, almost in shock with disbelief. When Opal gets in one of her moods, she's very hard to talk out of it. Kind of like Rarity, come to think of it. You suppose that's why they get along so well.

"Well," Rarity says after a long moment, clearing her throat, "that went better than I was expecting. Thank you, Fluttershy."

Fluttershy smiles back at her. "Of course, Rarity."

You shake your head and let out a quiet laugh, only encouraged to do so by Opal eating her (also expensive) food without any further fuss. "I always knew you were good with animals, 'Shy, but I swear that cat isn't an animal at all. It's like a possessed ball of twitchy nerves and sharp claws. And a bad attitude"

Opal looks up at you with what you could swear is the feline equivalent of an 'up yours' expression, but she quickly goes back to eating.

"See what I mean?"

"Opal's not a bad cat at all," she insists between bites of her cheese-and-herb stuffed pasta. "She just needs to hear 'no' once in a while. All pets do. Otherwise they won't accept us as the alpha members of the household, at least when dogs and cats are concerned." She takes a small sip of wine before continuing. "Umm...I usually get along better with animals than other ponies, if I'm honest. Though I like to think that spending time with you and Rarity has helped me a little in that regard. At least I'm not scared of my own shadow any more," she adds with a giggle.

Rarity gleefully smiles. "We're glad to help, my dear. Why, I'd say your time spent with us has been invaluable toward helping you break out of your social shell."

"Oh, definitely," you add. "Who knows? Maybe some time soon we can try to hook you up with an eligible stallion. Or mare, whatever you may prefer. I know a few guys who you might like."

Fluttershy and Rarity glance at each other, then over at you. You keep your expression neutral, waiting to see what, if anything, they have to say.

"Umm...m-maybe..." Fluttershy answers, looking down at the table. "I don't know if I'm, you know...ready for that yet."

"Hey, don't sweat it so much, 'Shy. Not saying we're gonna throw you to the wolves or anything, just letting you know that we're always willing to help you meet that special somepony when you feel like you're up to it." Rarity shoots you a questioning look; you shrug it off and continue. "Whip-Smart and Quick Fix are really good guys, if you're okay with dating a construction worker. It worked for Rarity!"

Fluttershy kicks a nervous leg and bites her lip, but says nothing more. Rarity takes the opportunity to jump in.

"Ah, not that we're saying you have to leave any time soon, darling! You can take as long as you like. We're more than happy to have you with us."

"Of course," you add. "Just throwing it out there, is all. You seem much more comfortable around us than you used to be, especially when it comes to showing your affection. I think that would carry over to someone else, too, if you gave them the chance. Just something to keep in mind."

After a few quiet moments Fluttershy pushes her chair back and carries her plate to the sink in her mouth, carefully placing it down next to the others.

"Umm...I should really go check on Angel. And the others. Just in case."

Rarity walks over and places a caring foreleg around her friend's neck. "Is there something wrong, Fluttershy? Was it something we said?"

"Oh, no, it's not that, Rarity. I just...need to check on them. I'll be back in a little while."

With that, Fluttershy wraps her scarf around her neck, steps out into the cold, winter night, unfurls her wings, and sets off to the other side of Ponyville, though not in any particular hurry. You and Rarity watch her until she's out of view; as soon as you shut the door Rarity is already staring up at you.

"What was that?"

"What was what?" you ask in return.

"You know very well what I mean," she retorts. "'We'll set you up with a stallion', 'I know some guys at work'. Really?"

"I don't see what you're making a big deal about." You shrug and make your way to the living room, Rarity right beside you. "Whip-Smart and Fix are great guys. It was just an idea."

"Darling, you know as well as I do that Fluttershy is not likely to accept a blind date with somepony you know from work. Or anyone else for that matter. She needs time to get used to somepony before she can even consider being romantically involved with them."

"Like us?" You plop down on the couch, kicking your feet up on the table to watch the light flurries of snow blowing past the window.

"Exactly. It's taken her all this time to warm up to the idea of being with us. She even said that she loved you today. Don't you understand, darling? Fluttershy loves you. Like she loves me. She's accepted us for who we are, and she's found herself to be comfortable enough with us to confess such emotions."

"Which is exactly why she should be able to entertain the idea of finding a real, long-term relationship, hon."

Rarity sits down on the couch next to you, but even so, things feel a little awkward between you right now.

"Why are you suddenly sounding so eager to be rid of Fluttershy from our lives? Don't you think she noticed your insistence that she find somepony else? You know she's far too polite to ever draw attention to it, but I know her well enough to see what's going on behind that timid exterior of hers."

You grasp her hoof in your hand, trying your best to sound comforting. "I know, and maybe I was too insistent, but let's be honest here: It's something that needs to happen sooner or later."

"Perhaps, but--"

"Honey," you interrupt her, "Fluttershy living with us was supposed to be temporary, remember? The reason we took her in was so that she could break out of that shell she's kept herself in for her whole life, even if it's just enough to introduce herself to someone she likes. We were trying to help her. I'd say we've accomplished that, and with flying colors, to boot."

"Be that though it may, I still feel that we're pushing her too far, and too fast. Perhaps if we give it some more time?"

"How much time?" you ask her. You wait for a reply while she stumbles over her her words to try and find a satisfactory answer. "Well?"

"I...I don't know just yet. But that's not to say that we won't know at some point! We must simply watch and wait, I believe." She glances out the large windows and nods to herself. "Yes. At some point."

'At some point' could be tomorrow, or a year from now, for all you know. And Hearth's Warming isn't coming any slower.

"Darling," she eyes you suspiciously, "what, exactly, are you so worried about? This isn't like you! You've always seemed so...loving and accepting of Fluttershy. Of our rather, ah, unique living conditions. Why the sudden concern?"

You take a deep breath, knowing that this moment was coming sooner or later, but still dreading it. You search for the right words for what feels like a long time, long enough for Rarity to cock her head to one side in questioning concern.

"Rarity. Honey. It's because I love you."

"I love you too, darling," she replies, still sounding confused, "but what does--"

"But I don't love Fluttershy." You give her a moment to let your confession sink in. "Not like I love you. I just...I can't."

"But when we were at the spa you said--"

"I know what I said. I do enjoy her company, and even her affection, but 'love' is such a strong word, Rarity. I'm not going to sit here and tell you that I hold the same feelings for Fluttershy that you do. I respect you too much to do such a thing."

You're not entirely sure what reaction you were expecting from her, but she's not angry. If anything, she seems disappointed. Maybe a little hurt. It kills you to have to reveal your true feelings for Fluttershy.

"Then why would you say you love her in return? Do you not respect her enough to tell her the truth?"

"You know that's not it," you answer, more seriously than you were intending.

"Then what is it?"

"I told her I loved her because I just couldn't bring myself to say otherwise. Not then. We were all having such a nice time, and you know as well as I do that something like this has to be broken to her very carefully."

You reach out a hand to grasp her hoof.

"Honey, at some point we have to--"

She jerks her hoof away.

"I can't believe you would do such a thing," she scolds you. "Fluttershy trusts us. She trusts you. We have been her comfort and warmth for months now, and suddenly you want to push her out like she was never here?"

"I never said that," you object, but you can already tell it's going to be difficult to get her to see things your way.

"Didn't you? For all intents and purposes, that is exactly what you've said to her today. And so close to Hearth's Warming Eve!" She scoffs, shaking her head in disbelief. "I'm honestly a little shocked."

"Honey, I know you're a lot closer to her than I am -- you've known her for years, after all -- but I think somewhere along the way you've forgotten why we brought her in with us in the first place. It was supposed--"

"I have not forgotten," she speaks over you. You end up raising your voice to be heard over her, a little more than you'd intended.

"It was supposed to be temporary, Rarity."

"I must ask you to watch your tone," she replies, ignoring the statement. "Lest you forget who it is you're speaking with."

"It was supposed to be temporary! I was fine with her being here for days, weeks, even a few months at a time, but this is our home, Rarity! This is our life together! I didn't fall in love with Fluttershy, I fell in love with you! I--"

You catch yourself starting to raise your voice again; you take a moment to calm yourself and take a deep breath. Things are already difficult enough without sounding angry.

"Look: It's not like I'm against her staying with us for a while, even if it's a couple more months, but at some point she's going to have to become self-sufficient for finding romance. And we both know that it's only going to be harder to see her leave us the longer she's here. Look how attached she's already become! I care for her, I really do, and I think she's an amazing girl who's sweet and loving and kind and all that...but she's not the girl I want to spend my life with."

You look into Rarity's big, sapphire eyes for some sort of answer, some hope of understanding. She can barely keep eye contact, her eyes darting away even as they glisten with forming tears.

"Hey...come on, honey. You know where I'm coming from, right? Rarity?"

She sniffs back a tear, her chin wavering. You're hoping against hope that she won't start crying, or you're going to feel like absolute shit. More than you already do.

"I...I had feared something like this would come up eventually," she finally says, her voice faltering as she speaks. "I just wanted to help her, to show her how much I cared for and loved her all these years..." She wipes her eyes with a foreleg. "I feel sick to my stomach to think that we may have essentially been lying to her for all this time..."

"Stop that," you try to comfort her, running a hand through her mane, "we've shared a lot of wonderful times with her, and those were all very real and genuine. I do care about her, Rarity. Really, I do. But you are the love of my life. I just can't bring myself to feel that strongly for her."

She looks up at you as you run a hand over her cheek.

"Baby, this isn't easy for me, either. Okay? You think I enjoy telling you that I don't really love her? I don't, not for one second. Right now she's out there somewhere," you point to the window, "and she's probably feeling very conflicted about the two of us, and I feel like an absolute dick for it. I mean, can you imagine what it would be like if I told her I don't love her like you do? She would be heartbroken! I have been meaning to sit down and talk with her about this for so long, but I've never been able to work up the courage to actually do so. And now look where we are!"

"Hiding your true feelings and leading one on can only lead to more pain," she states, sitting up straighter. "Something that I have learned only very recently. I spent the entirety of my adult life lying to myself about Cashmere, and we've been paying the price for it. I would have never thought you would make the same mistake."

"I know. And ever since we spoke with her, it's been at the forefront of my mind. I don't want to have the same thing happen to Fluttershy, she deserves better. But finding a way to actually break things to her...it's not as easy as I was hoping. And I feel like shit for leading her on, really I do. I wish I could just undo the whole day and start over." You grasp Rarity's hoof in your hands. "You understand, don't you?"

"I don't," she answers, barely above a whisper. "You could have said something so long ago. You could have just talked to me so we could figure something out together. But you didn't." By now, tears are streaming down her face, the black from her eye shadow mixing with her soft, white coat.

"For the first time, I find myself disappointed in you."

Ouch.

"And I hate feeling that way, more than I can possibly express. But I cannot, and will not, sit here and say that such actions -- or lack thereof -- were acceptable."

"I know they weren't, but--"

"Please, don't argue any further," she says quietly, not so much asking as demanding. She hops down from the couch, staring down at the floor for a moment. "I...I need some time to clear my head. As do you." Rarity's winter outfit levitates over, surrounded by shimmering magic. "I am going to leave for a little while. Perhaps some fresh air will do me some good. I believe Twilight is still awake; I may stop by and visit with her for a while."

Your mind is racing for something to say, but you just can't find the words. You hate yourself for it, hate yourself for having to be in this situation.

"When will you be back?" you finally manage to ask.

"...I don't know," she answers without turning back to you. "Please do not wait up for me."

Without another word said, Rarity slips into her outfit, heads for the front door, and shuts it behind her. The sound of the lock latching closed echoes through the Boutique. You head over to the nearest window and watch her until she's out of view.

With a final check to make sure all but one of the lights are out, you slowly make your way upstairs, past Rarity's work room, past Sweetie's empty spare room, and into the master bedroom. A small, framed picture sits on the nightstand: A photo taken nearly two months ago, during a day trip up to Canterlot, with Rarity and Fluttershy on either side of you. You pick it up and look at it for what feels like ages, all of your thoughts and fears playing before your eyes, every second of your confession to Rarity replaying over and over again.

Despite your best efforts to fight them off, tears begin welling up in your eyes. You place the picture down and lie on the bed, staring out the expansive windows as the last remnants of sunlight peak over the distant mountains.

For the first time, your familiar, comfortable bed feels so empty. So unwelcoming. You look over at Rarity's neatly-made stack of pillows, feeling like they're so far away. Right in between your spot and hers, a single, soft pillow rests against the headboard. A few long strands of pink hair still cling to it, mixed in with curled purple.

You turn over and shut the light off, pulling the blankets up to your chin. Slowly, you reach over and pull one of Rarity's pillows over, tucking it against your chest.

The light scent of lavender still lingering, you close your eyes for what you're sure will be the worst sleep you've had in a very long time. The day's events play through your mind. Their voices tug at the edges of your consciousness.

And you feel at fault for all of it.