"Well, don't keep me waiting, Aegis. I think it's been long enough."

The kindly, older stallion with the brilliant eyes simply smiles back at you.

"That it has. Funny, isn't it? At times it felt like the months just flew by, but Ah imagine the wait has been unbearable for ya lately. Mah son told me you were having some...issues...with picking the thing up. Ah was afraid you'd given up on ol' Aegis, heh heh."

"Not on your life," you answer, returning his smile. "Things have just been a little, uh, hectic as of late. But that's all over and done with." Hopefully.

"Ah see, Ah see...these things happen, after all. But! That's neither here nor there." With a curt nod and a gentle smile he motions toward Fluttershy. "And to what do Ah owe the honor of having such a beautiful young lady in mah humble little shop?"

Fluttershy blushes deeply and turns away slightly, hiding a smile. You answer for her.

"She's Rarity's best friend, has been for a long time. I thought I'd bring her in with me and show her the finished product. Gotta pass the 'best friend test' and all that, ya know?"

"Hmm. Ain't never heard'a such a thing, but Ah'll take your word for it." Aegis walks behind the counter toward the back room, limping slightly on hs bad leg. "Ah reckon it's about time ya saw the goods, son. Ah'll be right back."

Fluttershy speaks up as he disappears around the corner.

"He's very, um...courteous."

"Real ladies' man, that one," you laugh. "Polite and down-home friendly and all that. He's become a good friend over these last, oh...four, five months, I think."

"He reminds me of Applejack, only more, um..."

"Refined?"

"Yes, that's a good way to put it," she giggles. "Applejack's one of the friendliest ponies I've ever known, but she does lack a certain degree of polite formality."

"You sound like Rarity." You imagine Fluttershy's last statement coming from Rarity's mouth; it fits to a 'T' and elicits a chuckle. "If you start using the word 'uncouth', I'm going to have to take drastic action."

"I'll keep that in mind," she replies with a quiet laugh. "You said you've been waiting for five months for this, um..."

"Engagement necklace," you tell her. "It's an engagement necklace."

Her eyes widen at your confession, accompanied by a small gasp.

"You mean...for marriage? That sort of engagement?"

"That'd be it. This whole time I've been waiting for Aegis to finish a one-of-a-kind necklace so I can propose to Rarity. But between the cost and the labor required, it wasn't something that was going to be finished quickly. That, and, you know...the recent problems and all. That kinda set things back a little."

"So this whole time you've been worrying about marriage? That's why you were so hesitant to discuss things with Rarity and myself? I had no idea..."

Fluttershy starts looking saddened by the news, her head drooping slightly.

"I feel just awful that I might have been getting in the way..."

"Hey, hey," you reassure her as you bend down slightly to look her in the eyes. "Don't talk like that. This is something I've had planned for a long time, yes, but if anyone's to blame for things being as turbulent as they've been, it's me." And probably Rarity, but you avoid mentioning that part. "It took me a long time to figure this whole situation out. Too long, in fact."

You tilt her head up with your hand and offer her a gentle smile. "You were never 'in the way', okay? We welcomed you into our home, after all. Granted, things kind of got out of control recently, but considering we're here right now, I'd say things have worked themselves out. Mostly. Still have to smooth things out with Rarity."

"I suppose so," Fluttershy answers. "So, um, when were you planning on proposing? Soon?"

"This week," you admit. "Ideally, I'd propose on Hearth's Warming Eve. Got it all planned out and everything. I thought proposing on the holiday I missed last year would be something special. At least, that's the plan."

"Oh, my, that's much closer than I thought you were going to say. Still, that's very sweet of you," she smiles, looking around at the multitude of attractive, eye-catching jewelry in their glass display cases. "I probably shouldn't be surprised to hear that you're taking such a big step, but still...marriage is always surprising to hear about." She turns to face you. "Aren't you nervous? I know I would be."

"Nervous, excited, scared, hopeful -- you name it. If I'm honest, I'm worried that with, well...all of this going on recently, Rarity won't be in the right mood for something so serious."

Fluttershy offers a comforting smile. "I don't think you need to worry too much," she says sweetly. "Rarity may have been upset last night, and earlier today, but once she sees that things are okay between us she'll get over it quickly enough. Besides, it's Rarity. She can be overly dramatic. Oh! That reminds me." Your attention is drawn to a flyer just across the road; you can make out the silhouettes of costumed ponies and the word 'Annual' just above them.

"The Hearth's Warming Eve play is a few days from now. Are you going to go?"

"Of course. Wouldn't miss it for the world."

"I was just thinking that since you're planning on proposing to Rarity soon after, you could probably do so some time after the play ends. Rarity is always in very high spirits after her performance! Probably because she gets to be dramatic without anyone calling her out on it," she giggles.

You scratch your stubbly chin in thought. That would be a good time. Hopefully she stays in a good mood for a few hours afterward.

"Oh, and I don't think you really have to worry about her being upset or anything. It's very rare that Rarity is in a genuinely bad mood. You know that as well as I do! She's almost always happy and optimistic, even if she can feel a bit rushed from a busy day at the Boutique."

"Yeah, that's true," you nod. "I'm probably just overthinking it."

Heavy hoof-falls echo through the shop as Aegis returns from the back room, a long, thin box floating beside him in a shimmering field of silver magic, with a smile as big as you've ever seen.

"Just wait 'til ya get a load'a this baby!"

He sets the box down on the counter in front of you, looking like a proud father. "Ah know you've been waitin' for this here necklace for a long time, son, and Ah think you'll be overjoyed at the results of your patience. But if Ah may be so bold, Ah haven't enjoyed working on a piece of jewelry this much a long time. Years, even."

You wish you could shake his non-existent hand, but decide to simply give the customary fist-bump in its place.

"You're a true gentleman, Aegis. Wouldn't have wanted anyone else to work on this necklace."

"Hell, Ah don't think anyone else could have worked on it!" he laughs. "But thank ya all the same. Anyway! Time for the big reveal, huh? Ah can't wait to see your reaction!"

Your hands start to shake from the moment he motions to you.

"Go on, now. Open 'er up."

You carefully lift the lid from the box, slowly revealing the object you've been waiting for for what feels like a very, very long time. Your breath is taken away immediately; Fluttershy gasps at your side.

"Oh...wow." It almost doesn't feel real as you pick up the intricate, stunningly beautiful piece of jewelry. Shining bands of intertwined gold and silver wrap around one another, widening ever so slightly at the front. There, the dual braids cross over each other once before forming a beautiful, detailed base, into which the centerpiece of the entire necklace rests: A glimmering, perfectly faceted, marquise-cut gemstone. Almost an exact match to Rarity's diamond cutie mark, but elegantly curved instead of pointed. Just below the surface, you can make out a swirling, shifting pattern of blue, magical energy. It moves like an ethereal tide, ebbing and flowing in a way that mesmerizes you as you stare into it. It's even more beautiful and awe-inspiring than you remember.

"Aegis, I don't...I don't even know where to begin. I was expecting something good, but...wow. That's all I can say. Just...wow."

His face lights up at your reaction, beaming brighter than you've ever seen.

"Well ain't that somethin'. Ah know it's inadvertent, but Ah dare say you've made this old stallion happier than he's been in years." He floats the necklace from the box, hovering it in front of you. "The precious metals work took me the better part'a three months, if ya can believe it. Shaping the Seabreeze sapphire took another two; magical gemstones ain't the easiest thing in the world to work with, believe you me!" He chuckles and adds, "that reminds me: Take a look into the gemstone, if ya would. Ah think you'll find it still has that certain...magic...to it. Heheh."

You can vaguely remember the wondrous experience from last time; it comes rushing back as you focus on the sapphire. You're no longer standing in First Sight Jewelers, but instead floating above an endless expanse of the bluest water you've ever seen. Cold, invigorating waves lap at your feet. The clean, salty scent of the sea fills your lungs and clears your mind.

You let out a deep breath and open your eyes, blinking away the lingering sensations. No matter how many times you experience it, you don't think you could ever be less impressed. "Amazing."

"Isn't it, though?" Aegis laughs. "Makes me wish Ah had one'a mah own. If Ah may be honest with ya, during long days at the shop or after a particularly hefty work load Ah'd stop and do that exact same thing once in a while. Really nothin' like it, Ah can tell ya that. Kinda makes me wish Ponyville weren't so far from the ocean, ya know?"

You've had enough of the ocean to last you the rest of your life, but you really can't argue with him -- it does make you want to experience the real thing.

Hopefully with less panic and drowning this time. And exploding. Less exploding would be good.

Fluttershy looks up at the two of you with a confused expression.

"Um, excuse me, but...is there something I don't know about it? It certainly looks very nice."

Aegis smiles back at her and nods.

"My dear, Ah do believe your friend Rarity is in for quite the surprise. Here, take a gander." He floats the necklace closer. "All ya gotta do it stare at it for a second or two. Actually...don't so much stare at it as stare into it, if that makes any sense."

"Oh, okay," she answers, focusing on the gemstone. "Umm...how will I know what I'm supposed to be seeing?"

"Oh you'll know," he chuckles. "Just relax your thoughts."

You watch Fluttershy focus intently, her tongue poking out of her mouth just a bit. Her wings suddenly spread out as she lets out a startled gasp, lifting a foreleg in the air.

"Oh, my..."

After a few seconds she pulls herself back from the experience, her mouth agape.

"I...I was floating above the water," she says with a mix of shock and elation. "It was incredible! I didn't know such a thing was even possible!" Her eyes are wide as she asks you, "This is what you're giving to Rarity?"

"That it is," you smile back.

"She's going to be so surprised! Where did you find something like that? I've heard of magical gemstones before, but besides the ones in our Element necklaces, I've never actually seen one. Was it hard to find?"

"Oh yes," you answer, trying your best to keep a straight face. "I had to slay a dragon, then fight my way through hordes of man-eating creatures and--"

Fluttershy's wide-eyed expression finally puts you over the top, and you burst out laughing.

"I'm just kidding. I'd like to say I did all that stuff, but in reality all I did was kind of poke around the dirt while Rarity and I were out on a gem-hunting mission one morning. Just so happened to find it lying there just under the surface. Talk about lucky, huh?"

Aegis jumps in with a clop of his hoof on the counter.

"Believe you me, little lady, finding that sucker lyin' in the ground is about as likely to happen as actually slaying a dragon! That's one-in-a-million luck, is what that is."

"Yeah, go figure," you add with a shrug.

"You must live a charmed life, or somethin', son."

"I like to think it's the universe's way of apologizing for drowning me."

"Eh, good a reason as any, Ah s'pose," he laughs. "Anywho, Ah take it you approve of the final design, then?"

You slap him on the shoulder and smile a genuine smile, relieved to finally have the result of many months of time, labor and money. Mostly money. "Aegis, my friend, I cannot even begin to put into words how much I approve. You did one hell of a job."

The old stallion beams with pride. "Ah'm glad ya think so, son. And Ah think your lady-friend is gonna be real happy, too. Send me an invite to the reception and we'll call it even!" He chuckles and starts replacing the lid, but you stop him with an outstretched hand.

"Hey, uh, sorry...I suppose I should have mentioned something before you started to wrap it up."

"Hmm?" he asks, raising an eyebrow. "Somethin' up?"

"Nothing wrong, no, I just, um...I thought I'd see how it looks on someone before I make that big leap, you know? Wanna make sure it's the right size."

"Do ya now? Well, Ah suppose it only makes sense. Although, sorry to disappoint you," he says as he turns his head to the side, fluffing his non-existent curls of hair, "but Ah'm already taken!"

"Well, shit, that is a shame," you laugh, Fluttershy joining in. "I don't think you have the body for it, though."

"Ya wouldn't have said that if ya saw me in mah prime, son! Real talk-of-the-town, Ah tell ya what! Ah reckon we'll just hafta find somepony else to model your fancy necklace then, won't we?"

"I suppose we will."

"Hmmm...now who could it be," he says dramatically, rubbing his chin. He slowly leans forward over the counter, inching closer to Fluttershy. "Who could possibly be pretty enough to wear something so beautiful? She'd have to be a real charmin' sort. Attractive as all get-out, too...it could be anypony. Anypony at all..."

Fluttershy takes a nervous step back, arching her eyebrows. "M-Me? Um...are you...are you sure you want me to wear it?"

"Well," Aegis answers with a smile, "Ah don't see any other pretty young mares around. Whataya say?"

"I-I guess I could. If it's alright with you. If you think it'll help."

"I think it's a great idea," you reassure her with a smile. "You're nearly identical to Rarity in size. I want to make sure it fits perfectly."

"Well...okay, then. I'll try it on."

"That's the spirit!" Aegis exclaims, floating the necklace over to you. You grab it out of the air, staring at it for what feels like a long time. You turn it over and notice a series of small, almost imperceptable symbols forming a thin, curving line across the back.

"What's this?" you ask him, pointing to the engraving.

"Oh, just a little callin' card Ah put into all mah work. It's written in Old Equestrian, courtesy of mah wife. It says 'Who ever loved that loved not at first sight'. Ah hope ya don't mind."

"Not at all," you smile, turning the necklace back over. "I think it's very fitting."

"Ah was hopin' you'd say so. Now, let's see how this baby looks around the neck of a beautiful young lady, hmm?"

You bend down on a knee, now eye-level with Fluttershy. Grasping the necklace in both hands you carefully lower it over her head. She leans forward a bit to make it easier, watching intently as you slide it down her neck.

"I guess I could have just unclasped it and done it that way," you laugh quietly as you fidget with the intertwined bands. "But this works, too." You have to lift her long, pink mane up a little to let the necklace wrap around her neck properly, but she doesn't seem to mind. "Ooookay...looks about right...just a little adjustment, aaaand...perfect."

You stand back up and take a few steps back; Aegis lets out a long, low whistle at the sight of her.

"Well Ah'll be...ain't that somethin'. Prettier 'n a peach. And twice as lovely. " You nod in agreement as Fluttershy blushes heavily; she looks absolutely gorgeous with it on. The dark blue of the sapphire compliments her light coat and mane very well. For a moment you can picture her wearing it on a wedding day of her own, looking as radiant as she does now, and it brings a smile to your face.

Yes, any stallion would be damn lucky to have her. You just hope she's able to find that special someone.

"Umm...how do I look?" Fluttershy asks cautiously.

"Absolutely beautiful," you answer with a sincere smile. "Here, take a look." You pick up a small, hand-held mirror and hold it up for her. Her eyes widen and she lets out a quiet gasp at the sight of herself.

"It's really pretty," she says in astonishment. "And it fits perfectly! I don't even feel like I'm wearing it. I thought it would at least be a little heavy from all the gold and silver, or at least the gemstone."

"Trade secret," Aegis answers, chuckling at the compliments on his work. "All the beauty and durability with half the weight."

"It's very nice. I think Rarity will just love it." She giggles and adds, "If I can say so, I'm glad you didn't get her a horn ring. I always thought those were kind of, um..."

"Tacky?" you answer for her.

"Yes, that's a good way to put it. Not that a horn ring isn't acceptable, it's just, you know...kind of cliche. At least with something like this Rarity can wear it wherever she goes."

"That's the idea," you nod. "I wouldn't expect her to wear it everywhere; I'd worry about it in busy places if I were her."

"I don't think she'd be worried at all. Celestia help anypony who tries to take it from her!"

"True. I know I wouldn't want to mess with an angry Rarity."

"But yes, the necklace is very nice. She'll absolutely love it." You approach her once more and cautiously unclasp the hook and eye, letting her hair fall against her neck once more.

"Thank you for being my model, 'Shy. Just had to make sure it fits properly."

"Of course. I'm glad I could help," she smiles sweetly. The necklace clicks back together, and you carefully place it back in the box.

"Ah reckon there's just one more thing Ah need to do, eh?" Aegis asks, closing the lid.

"What's that?"

"Invite you and your friend there to a celebratory cider. On the house, of course, heh heh."

You look at Fluttershy and motion toward the back room; she smiles and nods in reply. The kindly stallion leads the way, motioning over his shoulder.

"Great! Ah'll go grab the mugs. Just about closin' time anyway. Gotta say, little lady, your country friend makes a mean cider. Every year Ah go and grab a couple barrels, and there's a line a country mile long just to get a taste of it."

Fluttershy giggles and points to a barrel sitting just around the corner. "Were you there the year that Flim and Flam showed up? It was, um...very interesting."

"Huh. Don't believe Ah was. What was that all about? Sounds like a good story."

"Oh it is! If, um, you'd like to hear it."

A mug of cold, frothy cider is floated into your hands.

"Mah dear, Ah'd like that very much."

==========

You and Fluttershy spent nearly an hour with Aegis, trading stories and drinking mugs of delicious, slightly tart cider that kicked just enough to give you a nice buzz. The old stallion was, of course, the very picture of friendliness and courtesy, even offering to give Fluttershy a discount on anything she might like to order or buy in the future.

The last bit of light was peaking over the Swayback mountains as you exited First Sight Jewelers, creating a calming, almost serene feeling as you stepped out into the cold air.

Of course, the three mugs of cider might have had something to do with your temporary euphoria.

Fluttershy, for her part, doesn't seem to have been affected by the alcohol. Maybe she's getting used to it. She's certainly had her fair share of wine in Rarity's company.

You reach under your jacket and feel around for the long, rectangular box that's been so neatly wrapped with a white, lacy ribbon. "Now, don't go hidin' it in a drawer or nothin' like that," Aegis had instructed you. "Ah've been around long enough to know what does and doesn't work, and trust me, that don't work. Ya gotta hide it real sneaky-like, ya understand? Some place the little lady of yours ain't never gonna go pokin' around in."

What, exactly, that place is, you still haven't figured out. You pat the box containing your most precious -- and expensive -- purchase since your arrival in Equestria so long ago.

"That Aegis is such a nice stallion," Fluttershy says joyfully, wrapping her scarf around her neck. "I wonder if he knows Applejack."

"I dunno, but I have a feeling they'd get along real well," you reply, fidgeting with the box to make sure it stays put as you walk. You look down at the cute pegasus at your side and smile. "Thanks for coming with me, Fluttershy. I was at a loss for words trying to explain this whole thing. Figured it would be better if I just showed you."

"It was my pleasure," she smiles back. "I know you didn't have to share something so personal with me, but I'm glad you did. Now I understand why you were so nervous. And I know a thing or two about nervousness." She giggles and points a hoof at the rectangular bulge in your jacket. "Rarity is going to be absolutely speechless when she gets that necklace. I've never seen something so beautiful."

"And expensive," you add. "Took a long time to pay it off, but by God, I did it. Now I just have to make the proposal work somehow." A string of what-ifs play through your head, all sorts of scenarios and situations.

"I don't think you need to worry. Rarity is your very special somepony! I can almost see her reaction now. It's very sweet of you to do something so unique for her."

"And now I know it'll fit properly, too. Thanks for trying the necklace on for me."

"You're very welcome. It's so beautiful, I could hardly believe it was real!"

"That makes two of us," you laugh. You stop at the corner at wait for a strongly-built stallion to finish pulling a vegetable wagon out of your path before continuing. "He wasn't kidding, you know."

"Hmm? What do you mean?"

"Aegis. When he said you looked 'prettier than a peach', or something similar. You looked beautiful wearing it. I dare say you're gonna give Rarity a run for her money once I see it on her." Fluttershy flattens her ears and grins sheepishly; you can't help but laugh at her reaction.

"I'm sure it wasn't that nice on me. It's made for Rarity, after all."

"That it was, sure," you nod, "but that doesn't change the fact that for a few moments you took the breath right out of a couple of guys who were struck by what they saw. You were a perfect fit to try it out. Just like Rarity, all it really does is bring out your natural beauty."

You genuinely feel like all of her praise is deserved -- and hopefully it will help build her confidence up. Fluttershy has always struck you as someone who is very much a shrinking violet, but given the right circumstances, can break out of her shell and be as confident and self-assured as she deserves to be.

A few ponies pass you on your way back, but nothing in particular catches your interest. Until, that is, a voice calls out to you from behind.

"And here I thought you wouldn't be by for another week, at least."

As the pony gets close you can make out a horn sticking out from his head. The lamp light shines on his stylish, comfortable winter coat and white scarf wrapped around his neck, accenting his silver eyes.

"Father must have been quite relieved!"

"Heya, Whip," you call back, waiting for the brick-red unicorn to trot over. You nod as he approaches. "How's your night goin'?"

"All things considered, quite well," he answers with a sincere smile. "Though I must admit to being rather surprised by meeting your acquaintance at this hour. I had assumed that with your, ah...concerns...you wouldn't be by for some time."

"Thankfully that seems to have worked itself out. Mostly. What makes you think I'm coming from the shop?"

"Well considering that you just turned from the corner that Father's shop is located on, I'd say it was a safe bet, wouldn't you?"

"Yeah, you got me there," you chuckle.

"I suppose I did, hmm-hmm. Oh! But where are my manners?" Whip-Smart bows his head and smiles at Fluttershy. "The name's Whip-Smart, madam. You'll have to forgive me, it's been quite a busy day."

Fluttershy offers a light smile, ducking her head only slightly. "It's okay. I'm F-Fluttershy," she manages to get out without stumbling over herself too much. It's progress, at least. A few months ago she would have squeaked out a barely-audible greeting. "Nice to meet you."

"Miss Fluttershy, was it? A pleasure to meet you, madam. I do believe I've seen you around town here and there. Do you happen to live on the north side of Ponyville, per chance? I pass by that way every morning on the way to work."

"Mmm-hmm," she nods, "I own a veterinarian cottage near the Everfree forest."

"A caretaker, then! Very noble of you. I work construction, myself, along with my esteemed -- and quite tall -- colleague beside you. I believe you've met my father, Aegis?"

"He's your father?" Fluttershy asks. "I thought I saw some resemblance. Mostly in the eyes. Not many ponies have a color like yours."

"You know Pipe Wrench, right?" you ask Fluttershy. "Whip here works for Pipe, too. Been around for a few months now, real stand-up kinda guy. Smart, too."

"You flatter me," he chuckles, adjusting his long coat. "I simply enjoy what I do. Now, before I forget once more, I must ask you: Did you pick up your finished product from father's shop?" You tap your knuckles against the box hidden under your coat. Whip's eyes practically light up. "Marvelous! Tell me, was Father as overjoyed as I imagine? Goodness knows he's devoted significant time to that wondrous necklace you now possess."

"You could say so, yeah. Your dad's one hell of a guy. Fluttershy and I even had a few drinks from his private stash to celebrate."

Whip-Smart smiles in recognition. "Sounds like the old stallion, all right. Truth be told, Mother knows quite well that he possesses a few barrels of the Apple Family's finest, but Father's never been one to imbibe to the point of intoxication. Don't tell him she knows, however. He thinks it's fun!"

"Speaking of which," you reach under your coat, "you wanna see the necklace?"

"Oh, no thank you," he declines politely with a raised hoof. "I dare say I've seen far more of that bit of jewelry than either of you! I stop by Father's shop every night around closing time to see if he needs any help, and more often than not he'd still be shaping and polishing away on that beauty for some time after. Quite a magnificent specimen. And magical! 'Seabreeze' indeed! Not many like it, unless you get excessively lucky and pry a Skyfire ruby from the crown of the Gryphon emperor."

"Skyfire? What's that do, make you feel like you've burst into flames?"

"Goodness, no!" he laughs, readjusting the small, rectangular glasses on his nose. "That would be quite horrific! No, there is no immolation involved; rather, it's a sense of flying. Not that spectacular for a pegasus -- or a gryphon, one would imagine -- but for a unicorn such as myself? It must be quite fascinating. Celestia only knows why a gryphon emperor would want to feel like he's flying when he can already do so, but I digress." A quick glance at your watch shows it to be just after seven -- Rarity's probably wondering where you've been for so long. "Ah, my apologies for keeping you both. Sometimes I get so caught up in conversation that the time just flies by, as it were. I shan't keep you any longer, I'm sure you've much to do. Besides, Father gets impatient if I take too long. Old age and what-not."

"No problem, bud. Never a hassle. Been good talking to you, Whip."

"The same to you, my friend. And you as well, Miss Fluttershy. It's rare to meet one who is both selfless and quite charming."

She smiles again; you can almost be sure you caught a slight blush, but it's gone before you can get a good look. "It was very nice to meet you, too."

"The pleasure was all mine, I assure you." He starts to turn away, then seems to catch himself. "Oh, drat, I'd nearly forgotten! Ah, Miss Fluttershy, you said you're a veterinarian, correct?" She nods in reply with a quiet 'mm-hmm'.

"I hate to be a bother after having met you only moments ago, but if I may ask...do you accept appointments? For, say, tomorrow morning? You see, I'm afraid my dear hound has become rather ill as of late. He's not particularly large -- a Yorkshire terrier, to be exact -- but I think he may have eaten something he shouldn't have. I don't believe it's dangerous, but it wounds my heart to see the poor fellow in such pain. Would you perhaps be able to--"

"Of course I can help him!" Fluttershy jumps in, her eyes wide with worry. "Oh, the poor thing, he must be ever so sad at being sick! I, um, I can go right now, if you need me to. That is, if you want me to. I just need to stop by my cottage and grab a few things."

Whip-Smart cocks an eyebrow; you shrug and laugh quietly at his sideways glance. "What can I say? The girl knows her medicine. If she says she'll go and help your dog right now, you can take that to the bank. She'll help that little guy feel better in no time."

"I see," he nods. "Well, consider me quite surprised, Miss Fluttershy. I hadn't expected such an eager response. But if you'd like to come by, it would be very much appreciated by the both of us."

Fluttershy giggles to herself, kicking the dirt nervously. "Sorry, I didn't mean to surprise you. I just can't stand the thought of a poor little creature feeling bad for a single second longer than it needs to."

"That's quite kind of you."

"You have no idea," you chuckle, looking down at Fluttershy. "Go on, I'll tell Rarity you'll be a while. She'll understand."

"Okay," Fluttershy smiles brightly. "I'll be back as soon as I can. Promise." She turns to Whip-Smart and cocks her head, asking what his address is. He recites it only once, and not even a moment later Fluttershy spreads her wings and takes off into the sky, faster than you've seen her fly in a long time.

Whip's jaw is hanging wide open as Fluttershy becomes a yellow-and-pink streak in the darkening sky.

"Amazing..."

"Yeah," you laugh, slapping him on the shoulder, "that she is."

==========

Night falls over Ponyville just as you arrive home. With it, a scattering of snow flurries -- the remainder of a pegasi-scheduled snowfall from earlier in the day. It feels like it's been much longer than a few hours since you were last home, your last image of a less-than-pleased Rarity as you walked out the door rearing its head once again. Hopefully she's calmed down by now.

Still, you brace yourself as you open the door. Rarity's mood can be hard to read at the best of times, depending on her particular level of drama for that day, to say nothing of when she's actually upset.

The Boutique is darkened, with just a single lamp lighting up part of the living room. You carefully step around to see if Rarity's there, finding her asleep on the couch with a quilted blanket laid out over her. Not wanting to disturb her you remove your jacket and boots, setting them in the entrance way. With a quick double-check you pull the long, rectangular box from your jacket pocket and quietly make your way upstairs.

"Now where to put this thing..." you mutter to yourself, searching around for a place to hide your most precious of gifts. You briefly consider Sweetie's guest room, but decide against it; the last time you left something in her closet, it ended up bedazzled and decidedly 'fabulous'. You'd rather avoid that again.

The hall closet is certainly big enough to hide the box in, but Rarity is in there all the time making sure it's stocked. That won't work, either.

That leaves the master bedroom. Surely hiding it there isn't going to work. Celestia only knows how many times Rariy rifles through the drawers on a daily basis, searching for this or that. At least, her drawers...

On a hunch, you tug open the bottom two dresser drawers, the ones specifically set aside for your things. The first drawer is full of neatly-folded clothes (thanks to Rarity, of course), but the bottom one is mostly a collection of keepsakes and pre-Equestria mementos. And it's hardly ever touched. Your suspicion is proven correct as you shufle around the various stacks of faded camouflage and credit cards that used to mark your old life, finding them still untouched since you placed them in there so many months ago.

"Perfect."

Just to be sure, you pull out your old BDUs and wrap them around the box. Before you can place them back in the drawer you stop and run your hand over the material; it's rough, faded with time and exposure, with small holes here and there, but still in relatively good shape. All of your memories from your old life resurface -- friends and family, love and heartbreak, a thousand little details from the daily grind of uniformed service. To think that two years ago you were worrying about whether you would re-enlist for another stint in the military, and now you've fully devoted yourself to a new life. A life with a beautiful fashionista mare, of all things. You can't help but laugh.

With a final glance you tuck the wrapped box into the back of the drawer, moving some things in front of it just to complete the illusion. Hopefully it's enough.

A few minutes later you're changed into your more comfortable flannel pants and slippers, courtesy of Rarity's 'inspiration' a few weeks ago. Luckily this inspiration didn't include frills or jewels, as it tends to with everything else. You consider throwing on an old shirt but ultimately decide against it, having forgotten that pretty much everything of yours if currently sitting in a pile in the laundry hamper. Might as well save the shirt for work tomorrow.

Back downstairs, Rarity hasn't moved from her spot. You carefully sit down beside her, laying your head back with a deep exhale. It's exceptionally quiet, with just the sound of the distantly ticking clock from the kitchen and the soft rhythm of Rarity's breathing. You bend down and kiss her forehead, then close your eyes and attempt to get a little sleep. Truth be told, you can't think of anything better.

==========

The red numbers tick away on the panel. 5...4...3...and then nothing. The walls around you groan and buckle in protest. You look around, but find no one else in the comm room.

"Parker? Ortiz?"

No voices answer you. The deck lurches under your feet with a great, deafening roar of twisting metal. Before you can even react you're pulled under the surface, a great weight tugging you down, down into the infinite black abyss. You gasp for air but find only salty water. Your entire body is racked by pain, your mind paralyzed by fear and panic. The last remnants of life drain from your body, and you close your eyes one last time...

It's okay.

You distantly feel yourself being lifted up, floating on a bed of soft clouds.

I'm here.

Life struggles to return to your body as you break the surface, vomiting great torrents of seawater. The warmth and comfort of the sun clears away the cold, the wetness, the worry. It all feels like it's happening so fast, yet in slow motion. You can vaguely make out a figure in the distance as you struggle to keep your eyes open.

It will all be okay, I promise, the comforting voice reassures you. You try to call out to it but find yourself unable to speak. The distant figure approaches closer and closer, seeming to float above the waves, but always looking just out of focus.

I'm here for you, my love.

Soft curls of hair brush against your face.

And I always will be.

==========

You awaken with a start. It takes a few seconds to realize that you're still downstairs, with Rarity still at your side. She fidgets and gradually wakes herself up, pushing herself up on an elbow and groggily looking around.

"Mmmmnn...is that you, darling?"

You smile down at her.

"Hey, baby. Sorry if I woke you."

Her impeccably well-kept curls stick up in places; she runs a hoof over them out of habit, trying to put them back in their proper place. "No need to apologize, I'm afraid I fell asleep some time ago. Oh, goodness, I must look a mess..."

"You look fine," you laugh. You run your fingers through her hair just to get the point across. "Got home about an hour ago, but I didn't want to wake you. You looked comfortable, at least."

"I quite like this blanket. Always helps me sleep when I'm having trouble doing so." She looks around for a moment, sitting up to lean against your shoulder. "Where's Fluttershy?"

"You're not gonna believe this. Well...maybe you might."

"Hmm?"

"She took off to help Whip-Smart -- one of the guys from work -- after we ran into him earlier. He said his dog was sick, and when he heard Fluttershy was a vet he asked her to help. You can imagine how she reacted when she learned a poor little animal was in trouble."

"Oh, dear," she giggles, "she must have practically bowled him over to help! That certainly sounds like Fluttershy, alright."

"Never seen her fly that fast. She could have given Dash a run for her money, I swear." Rarity snuggles against you; you place an arm around her and pull her against you. "We were out for quite a while, I think. I thought it was probably in our best interests to have me and her just sit down and talk about things. Maybe put it all into perspective."

"And?"

"And I think it went very well," you smile.

"Really? I must admit to being somewhat surprised."

"Yeah, that makes two of us. I dunno, maybe I managed to find some way to get the point across. I was kinda playing it by ear for a while. I really wanted to make it clear where I stand with all of this. With you, especially. I don't think it was an easy thing for her to accept -- it certainly wasn't easy to explain -- but Fluttershy's a big girl. She understands that relationships are complicated. Anyway, she said she'll be back later. You can ask her about it yourself, if you like."

Hopefully Fluttershy doesn't mention the necklace. You doubt she would, but it's always possible that it'll slip out.

"Well I'm glad you've managed to resolve things, darling. I dare say we've had our fill of drama for a while, hmm?"

"Yeah," you chuckle. "Yeah we have." Rarity runs a soft hoof down your chest, still tucked in against your arm. "What about you, honey? Are you alright?"

She nods almost imperceptably. "I am. This has not been easy for anyone involved, of course, but I feel the time for such theatrics is behind us. I just want to carry on as we were before. I absolutely hate feeling like I did earlier, especially when we're so close to the holiday. This should be a time of rejoicing and love, not of bitterness and conflict." She looks up at you and places a hoof on your chin. "I love you, darling. I don't want anything to come between us. You are the most precious thing in the world to me. You are my heart and my very soul."

"I promise, nothing will," you answer her. "I'm ready to forget any of this even happened. What about you?" Rarity nods, sitting up straighter. "Good. It's settled, then." You lean forward and kiss her cheek. "I love you, Rarity. I always will."

You gently pull her toward you, meeting her lips for a loving kiss. She sighs at the sensation and slips her tongue into your mouth, pulling you down on top of her with a small laugh.

"I'm so glad you're home. The Boutique just isn't the same without you around, my love."

"I'm glad that you're glad that I'm home, believe me," you laugh. "By the way, I have to ask: What do you think of Fluttershy staying a while longer? I told her I'm fine with it if you are."

"Really?" She cocks an eyebrow at you, obviously surprised. "I would have thought you'd prefer her to stay at her own place."

"I do prefer it when it's just us, of course, but I'm not about to kick her out. There'll be plenty of time for just the two of us to come." You catch your own verbal gaffe a second later. "I mean...plenty of time to come for just the two of us. You know what I mean." Rarity covers up a laugh with a foreleg. "Hey, come on. Words are hard sometimes!"

"Oh, how I missed you," she giggles, leaning up to kiss your cheek. "But to answer your question: Yes, I think it's just fine if Fluttershy stays with us for a little while longer. I'm glad you agreed to such a thing, darling."

"She's a great girl. I can't just toss her out. I don't think I was being fair to her before, but I've fixed that now. Hopefully. You know me, I can't even get a sentence out properly sometimes."

"Indeed I do. Don't feel too bad, my dear, not all of us can be perfect." She playfully tosses a curl and smiles up at you. "Now, about that 'plenty of time for the two of us to come' bit..."

"Way ahead of you," you answer with a grin, lifting her head up with your hand. "I'm already half way undressed."

"Always thinking ahead," she replies, pulling at the waist band of your flannel pants. "Like a proper gentleman." You run a hand down her side and grasp her flank, squeezing firmly over her triple-diamond cutie mark. "Oh! Well, mostly a proper gentleman." With a burst of magic she pulls you down on top of her, whispering into your ear. "And that's just how I like you."