Daniel stood there on the large towels with Celestia. Water dripped from their wet bodies as he reached for one of the drying cloths. Securing it in his hands, he smiled and began to run it across her wet fur. She shared his smile and let out soothing sigh, enjoying the motions of the towel along her side. It began reminding her of past week, and when they got into that playful fight over the garden hose.

“Daniel?”

“Yes?”

“Do you remember when we were carrying on with the garden hose last week?” She blinked her magenta eyes at him and continued to smile.

He chuckled and gave her an affirmative nod. “Of course I do. That was so much fun.”

“You know something?” She gave him a curious look as her eyes remained on him.

“And what’s that, Celestia?” Daniel glanced at her, then continued drying her back and carefully started on both her wings.

“When we went to towel off, I actually thought it would have been nice if we could have dried each other. But sadly, it didn’t seem appropriate at the time.” She turned her head away briefly, then looked at him and to her delight, Daniel still had a thoughtful look on his face.

After drying her lovely neck, he moved to her front legs. “You probably made the best choice…but hey, we’re getting to dry each other now.” He looked up and gave her cheerful glance.

Celestia giggled in return and placed her hoof on his arm. “You’re right, we are.”

Daniel chuckled again, resting his hand along her hoof, before moving back to dry her flank. “Can I tell you something?”

“Oh, what’s that?” Celestia glanced back at him, and sighed from the gentle motions of the towel along her wet tail.

“After that playful fight with the hose…I think that’s when I started feeling attracted to you. The way you playfully tackled me was the most fun I’ve had in years. Then, you gave me that adorable smile as you blushed. Though, I have to admit, I wasn’t entirely sure what I was feeling.” Daniel laughed a bit as he finished with her hind legs and dried along her cutie marks. “You know, it’s not everyday I develop a crush on an alicorn princess.”

Celestia giggled playfully and nodded in agreement. “I never thought about it that way.” She gave herself a quick looking over. “Well, I think I’m just about…oh! Oh my.” Before she could finish her thought, Celestia felt Daniel run the towel along her folds, there he delicately dried her most sensitive area. She let her eyes fall shut for a few seconds, reveling in the attention her marehood was receiving. “That feels heavenly.”

“Good, I was hoping you’d like that.” He smiled as he rose from her backside and returned to face her. “You’re all dry. Oh, but let me go over your mane one more time.” Celestia briefly opened her eyes, and let out a happy sigh. Daniel ran the towel over her lengthy and colorful tresses, and then gave a satisfactory nod. “There you are, honey.”

Celestia’s smile grew. She was really beginning to love it when Daniel would use terms of endearment on her. She clutched the other towel in her hooves and stared affectionately at him. He saw her captivating glance and moved to set the used towel on the counter. Daniel wasn’t quite paying full attention and ended up dropping it on the floor instead of setting it by the sink.

She began drying him and kept smiling as she started with his hair. “This is just as delightful as I imagined.” Celestia finished Daniel’s hair, then went on to his back and shoulders.

“I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself. Oh, which reminds me.”

“Yes?”

“Once we’re done in here, I’ll fire up some of that music I promised to share with you.”

“That sounds great. Just out of curiosity, you wouldn’t happen to be planning to play any love songs, would you?” She gave him another look that drew him right into her captivating eyes.

Shaking his head in an attempt to regain his focus, Daniel simply smiled at her. “Most of the songs I was going to play are love songs or similar relaxing songs. That’s not a problem, I hope.”

Celestia rested her hooves on his shoulders and let the towel drape along his front. “Of course not. I was hoping for something romantic.” She pressed her lips to his and moaned faintly, before she resumed drying him. After finishing with his torso, she moved on to his legs, then finally, she dried between his legs and gently dried his sensitive area. Daniel sighed as Celestia noticed a major change to his masculinity. She smiled as she spent a few extra moments drying his length.

Daniel let out a soothing breath, relishing her loving motions with the towel. “That’s nice…mmm.”

She couldn’t help but giggle, it made her happy to bring him any pleasure she could. After so many years had passed, Celestia was just so overjoyed to have someone this special in her life.

A big smile bloomed on her face as Celestia set the towel on the counter and used her magic to pick up the one he accidentally dropped. “There, Daniel. You’re all set.”

“Thank you, Celestia.” He reached out and touched a lock of her mane. “Hmmm, you’re mane is a little mussed, but it’s still so beautiful.”

She continued to smile and nuzzled her cheek against his. “That’s sweet of you to say, but I should really brush it.”

Daniel continued to caress her hair, when suddenly, he had an intriguing thought come to mind, though at first he felt a little reluctant to ask. “Celestia?”

She was checking her mane in the mirror, then turned to answer him. “Yes, Daniel?”

“Would you…mind…if I brushed your hair for you? I mean if you don’t think it sounds weird or anything.” He felt his cheeks become a little flushed knowing that to some women this was a touchy subject, and he had no idea how an alicorn would react to such a question for that matter.

Before Daniel had to wait, Celestia affectionately bumped her forehead along his, making sure to mind her horn. “That sounds like a wonderful idea, and it doesn’t sound weird at all.”

He smiled back at her, bubbling with silent glee. “Great. Oh, you have a brush with you, right?”

“I sure do. Why don’t I run to my room and get it. In the meantime, you can get the music ready.” A new jubilant expression formed on Celestia’s face as she prepared to leave the bathroom.

“All right. I’ll prepare the music, heck, we can even start listening to it while I brush you.” He smiled, sharing her enthusiasm as he finished dressing and hung the wet towels up to dry.

“That sounds lovely. I’ll be back in a few minutes.” Celestia gave him a kiss on the cheek, then trotted out of the room.

Daniel stared briefly as he watched her leave the bathroom. Then he strolled to his room and sat on his computer chair. He opened iTunes and brought up a special playlist he had been working on during the past week. A grin formed on his face as he saw the list he named “Songs for Celestia”. Since their meeting, he’d been finding songs that made him think of her, and Daniel didn’t think he could find better music to share with the mare he loved.

A couple minutes had passed and Daniel heard the delicate patter of her hooves along the carpet. The heavenly fragrance of her floral perfume wafted into his nose as he took in a deep breath, exhaling contently.

Daniel rose to greet her, beaming her a loving smile. “There you are.”

Celestia stood in front of him, and happily shared his smile. “I’m here.”

They shared a loving hug and Daniel really caught a delightful whiff of the floral scent she was wearing. “Mmm, you smell so nice. I just love your perfume.”

She giggled, sharing an affectionate nuzzle with him. “That’s why I thought you’d like it if I put on a little.”

“Yeah, I do.” He sighed, taking in a soothing breath. “Oh, did you bring your brush?”

“I sure did. Is the music ready to play?” She batted her eyes at him and continued to smile.

He nodded happily. “All set. So, where’s the brush?”

She snickered softly, turning to her side. “It’s right here.” Celestia moved her head back toward him and presented him the brush with it gripped in her mouth.

Daniel saw the sight of her holding it and thought she looked adorable. “Awww, Celestia, you always look so cute when you do that.”

Celestia blushed deeply from his thoughtful words as she held the brush up to him. Daniel took hold of it, just as she let go. “I know you enjoy it when I use my mouth or hooves to hold things.”

He softly patted her furry back. “I really do. Come on, let me start the music, then we can relax on the bed.”

Celestia followed Daniel over to the computer. There, she tapped her hoof on his shoulder. “Daniel, wait a moment.”

He glanced back at her. “What is it?”

“Could we wait and listen to the music after you brush my hair? I was just thinking it’d be nice to sit together and talk. This way you won’t be interrupted, just in case we fell the urge to dance to any of the music.

Daniel smiled at her, having greatly enjoyed her suggestion. “Of course we can wait.” He walked away from the computer and sat down on his bed, sliding to the middle. “Now, why don’t you come and join me, Celestia?” Daniel patted the spot beside him and gave her a loving glance from his brown eyes.

Celestia gazed back at him with her captivating magenta eyes as she elegantly crawled onto the bed, tucking her lovely wings at her side. A joyous smile blossomed on her face as she moved closer to him. “Of course, Daniel,” she spoke in a silky voice.

He parted his legs, forming a wide ‘V’. She moved a little closer and laid in front of him, resting her hooves on his left leg. “How’s this?”

“Perfect, my love.” He took a portion of her gorgeous mane and brought the brush to its end. Taking a moment, Daniel enjoyed feasting his eyes on the lovely color combination of light cerulean blue, light turquoise, dark lavender and dark pink that blended so harmoniously in her hair. Slowly he ran the brush along her mane, gradually working his way up, and from what he had learned about hair brushing from his mother and his hair stylist, Daniel knew to be gentle and use great care in working out the knots and kinks that tend to form. There was an added bonus as her hair was still a little damp from their shower, which made the knots easier to deal with.

As the brush tugged along her tresses, Celestia let out a relaxed sigh. She closed her eyes and laid her head along her forelegs. Daniel heard her moan faintly and smiled as he continued his joyful task. He sat there marveling at the length and body of her hair, losing himself in the calm of the moment, brushing away.

Little by little, Celestia’s mane began to regain its beauty. Periodically, Daniel would stop his brushing to savor the softness of her silky threads, appreciating how lovely it was becoming.

He worked on contently, sweeping the brush along Celestia’s mane, when something humorous dawned on him. Daniel laughed briefly before speaking, “It’s ironic, honey.”

“Hmmm?” Celestia murmured, sounding like she was half-asleep. Realizing Daniel had said something, she opened her eyes and raised her head to look at him. “What’s ironic, sweetheart?”

Daniel simply gave her a loving smile before he resumed brushing her mane. “Well, I was just thinking, after all the time we spent organizing the spare bedroom, you’re probably not going to be needing it now,” he chuckled, following his response.

Celestia enjoyed laughing with him. “Oh my, I hadn’t really thought about it, but you’re right.”

“Neither did I.” Daniel sighed happily, moving the brush to another section of her gorgeous hair. “I just want you to know, you’re welcome to share my bed anytime you want, as long as you don’t mind that it’s a little cramped.” He grinned a little sheepishly, knowing its limitations.

Celestia sat up partially and placed her left hoof on his chest. “It’s fine, Daniel. I think it’s actually pretty cozy, snuggling close as we sleep. I’m really looking forward to doing it again, tonight.”

He nodded, continuing to smile. “That sounds wonderful, but I do have some savings. I could always look into getting a larger bed.”

She gave him an endearing look, circling her hoof across the fabric of his shirt-covered chest. “Thank you, Daniel, but for now, I’m more than happy with the way things are.”

“You know…so am I,” he spoke softly. “Oh, but should you ever need some space, you can always feel free to use the spare room…I mean if you want to.”

Celestia reached over and pushed his hand, brush and all, down. Daniel looked at her with intrigued eyes. A sincere and loving smile formed on her lips as she leaned in to kiss him. “Mmm…” Celestia moaned softly, pressing her lips firmly against his. His kindness and thoughtfulness had once again touched her.

Daniel placed his free hand along her swanlike neck, more than happy to return her kiss. They both moaned quietly while savoring the expression of their love.

Pulling back slightly, Celestia gazed at him half-lidded, placing her hoof along his cheek. “Daniel…you’ve been so wonderful…almost like the sweetest dream. Yet here you are, just as real as me.” She chuckled nervously, realizing she must have been half rambling. Glancing back, she didn’t see the slightest sign of contempt or anything else but Daniel’s devoted stare, which made Celestia smile even more.

Daniel softly stroked her mane, adoring the renewed silky texture his brushing had given it. “In all my life…I never dreamed I’d meet anyone as amazing as you, Celestia.” A soft chuckle rolled off his lips. “Oh, there I go getting carried away with the romance. Sorry about that.”

Celestia offered him an endearing expression, continuing to look at him with partially closed eyes. “It’s more than okay. I don’t mind at all.”

He smiled, securing his grip on the brush. “Here, let me finish your mane, then I’ll take care of your tail.”

“All right.” Celestia laid back down, her forelegs still resting on his left leg. The smile on her face was even more jubilant than before. As Daniel continued brushing her, she began humming softly.

His smile grew as he recognized the tune. Celestia was humming the melody of “Luna’s Boat Song” from Lunar. It still tickled him that she enjoyed one of his favorite role-playing games. Daniel cast out a soothing sigh as he finished with her mane.

“There, you’re mane’s done. Now for your tail.” He grinned at her.

Celestia sat up again and opening her eyes, she gave him a rather seductive look. “Oh, okay. Let me just get situated here.” She giggled rather playfully. After turning around and partially presenting her rump, Celestia flipped her tail over the exposed part of his leg, with a small portion resting on the cuff of his shorts. “How’s that?”

Daniel snagged a portion of her tail and gave her a nod. “This will do nicely.” He chuckled briefly, then gingerly secured the locks of her tail in his free hand. Taking the brush, he began at the end and softly worked along the tangles. He took a deep breath, feeling Celestia adjust and slightly push her rump against his leg. Having her flank so close to his crotch made Daniel feel a little distracted. The teasing the two had been doing to each other, since just before their shower, left him wondering if they’d make it through this brushing session and the music, before their desires got the best of them.

As he steadily worked the brush up her tail, Daniel recalled that Celestia said she was looking forward to having sex with him again. Of course to Daniel it would be so much more than simply sex alone, rather he would regard it as making love to someone as special as her. The idea of bonding deeply with Celestia, both physically and emotionally, left him feeling the same giddy feeling he experienced the night before.

Focusing more on his task, he began to think of the music they were soon to share and figured, for her, he’d work through the distractions. After all, Celestia was continuing to mean more to him with each passing minute. Oddly enough, it almost seemed like time slowed down whenever he was with her, and he couldn’t be happier because of it.

“How’s that feeling? I’m not being too rough, am I?” Daniel paused his brushing as he waited for her reply.

“No, it’s fine…just like you.” She giggled and then let out a dreamy sigh.

Daniel gave her tail a few more strokes, then offered her a smile. “All right. That should do it.” He leaned over and lightly pitched the brush onto his nightstand and then pulling back, he ran his fingers along her tail. “Nice and silky. What do you think?”

Celestia curled her tail over and gave it a quick inspection. She closed her eyes and smiled gleefully. “It’s perfect! Thank you.” Celestia turned toward him and threw her hooves around him, half tackling Daniel in the process. They plopped onto the bed, just missing the pillows.

He looked up at her and pushed up his glasses. Daniel realized he was all but pinned by her. “Gee, I’m feeling déjà vu,” he snickered, caressing her cheek.

Celestia looked down at him and blushed. “So am I.” Then she smiled brightly. “Only this time…I can do this.” She closed her eyes and locked her lips to his. Daniel threw his arms around her neck as they shared another sensuous kiss.

A few moments of tenderness passed and they lightly pulled back. Daniel rubbed his hand along her cheek again. “I don’t think I’ll ever tire of kissing you.” She smiled, while he chuckled at her. “You ready to check out that music?”

She nodded. “Mm-hmm.” Celestia released Daniel and moved off of him, a distinct blush clinging to her cheeks.

Daniel stood up and smiled back at her. “I still love it when you blush. You look so beautiful when you do. Which makes this first song very appropriate.”

Celestia felt her cheeks tingle as they turned a little redder, but she hardly minded. Casting her gaze his way, she kept smiling. “So, what is this first song?”

He laughed briefly. “It’s called “Beautiful”. Now, there are some parts that don’t quite fit, like the parts about a club. Still, a good deal of this song made me think about you anyway.”

Daniel jiggled the mouse and highlighted the appropriate track and double clicked it. Turning back, he said, “Okay, here we go.” He returned to the bed, and took a seat beside her, just as the music began to play.

Celestia lounged on her side and Daniel nestled against her. He nimbly slipped his arms around her and shared her ceaseless smile. So far, she seemed to be enjoying the song’s melody.

Daniel gave her a sheepish look following the line about being her baby's father. “That would be one of the parts that doesn't fit.”

Celestia giggled at him. “That’s okay.”

Then came the other unfitting line, which made him give her a troubled glance. “That would be the club part, that doesn’t quite fit either.” Daniel grinned, feeling a little nervous, hoping she would be able to enjoy most of the song anyway.

Celestia just smiled and patted her left hoof along his chest. Then the song’s chorus began to play and it became clear to her why this song was appropriate.

Celestia cooed softly following the second verse. The repetition of the word "beautiful" and the mentioning of how like the sun she brightened his day made her lean closer to Daniel and begin nuzzling him – it was even clearer why this song caused him to think of her. Celestia felt touched again and gave him a gentle kiss on the lips and whispered his name.

He sighed contently giving her a loving squeeze. Daniel responded, softly speaking her name and affectionately kissed her lips in kind, as they continued listening.

Celestia began feeling impassioned, Daniel’s intentions for playing this song were quite clear and the song’s lyrics seemed to match his growing feelings for her. It gave her such an elevating sensation, she could only think of one way to properly express her happiness. The princess gave him another vigorous nuzzle and then to her surprise, Daniel beat her to the punch and kissed her very deeply, causing her to close her eyes in response to the passion she felt pouring out from him.

The emotions began making Celestia feel half intoxicated, leaving her wanting even more. She opened her mouth and tapped her tongue on his lips. Daniel was more than delighted to indulge her. He parted his mouth and joined his tongue to hers, sharing an alluring oral embrace. They both moaned passionately, while he pulled her closer in his arms and she in turn secured her hooves around him.

A few moments passed and just as the song was finishing, their kiss concluded, while they lost themselves in each others’ eyes and softly gasped for air.

Daniel gingerly ran the back of his left hand along her furry cheek. “My love, that was wonderful.”

She leaned against his hand, happily smiling at him. “I’m glad you enjoyed it, sweetheart. Seems we were thinking the same thing.”

He nodded sharing her loving smile. “Yeah, we certainly were.” Daniel clasped her right hoof delicately and gave her a sincere look. “The next song is about to start. Would you care to dance?”

Her eyes seemed to glisten at his request. Celestia placed her other hoof over his hand and smiled with a nod. “Of course, I’d be delighted.”

The couple rose from the bed and moved to the empty floor along the center of his room. Celestia stood partially on her hind legs and let her hooves rest on his shoulders. Daniel placed his arms around her just above her folded wings. She gazed deep into his eyes and saw him gazing back.

It was then, that the following song began to play. Celestia listened closely to the expressive melody. “Ooh, what song is this? Is this one of the love songs you told me about?”

Daniel let out a loving sigh. “Yes. This song is called “My Heart Will Go On” and is sung by one of my favorite artists, Céline Dion. I think you’ll really like this.” He moved his right hand to tenderly stroke her mane.

“I like the title.” Celestia sighed near his ear and ran her hoof across his short brown hair.

After moving a little closer, Daniel gradually led them in a clockwise motion, while they began slowly swaying back and forth to the music.

(Pause for the first verse)

Celestia sighed dreamily as she leaned her head on Daniel’s shoulder. “Mmm, this is a really beautiful song.”

Daniel smiled and rested his head against hers. “Hmm…guess I was right then, you do like it.”

“Mm-hmm.” Celestia mumbled back.

(Pause for the second verse)

They continued swaying gently across the floor, losing themselves in the song’s endearing lyrics and calming melody.

(Pause for the chorus)

Daniel felt adventurous and slid his hands over her folder wings, stopping them just above her cutie marks. Celestia giggled softly and ran her hoof along his back, letting him know she enjoyed his gesture. She raised her head and smiled at him, while she looked into his eyes.

Their dancing continued to take them in a gradual orbit of the center of Daniel’s bedroom. He moved his right hand and resumed stroking her silky mane, while Celestia sighed happily.

(Pause for the first two lines of the third verse)

Celestia’s eyes began to tear up as she suspected why this song was so special to Daniel.

(Pause for the last of the song)

He stood there, looking into her beautiful jewels just as the last of Céline Dion’s words faded out. Celestia’s mouth partially dropped when she saw a lone tear trailing down the right side of Daniel’s face. She pulled him closer and joined her lips to his, just as a tear of her own rolled down her cheek. Daniel moved his arms to better embrace her and kissed her back as deeply as he could, moaning affectionately for her. He heard a loving moan muffle over her lips, while he swept his hand along her heavenly mane.

The lovers remained embraced following their kiss. Smiles still brightly painted their faces as they briefly lost themselves in the other’s eyes, again.

“Thank you, Daniel. I haven’t enjoyed a dance like that in…well, too long to count.” Celestia giggled nervously. “You never mean to let so much time go by, but…”

Daniel placed his left hand under her divinely sculpted chin. “I think I understand. While my life has been vastly shorter than yours, I still know how time can get away from you.” He softly rubbed his thumb across the fur of her chin. “You know, you danced beautifully. I really hope we can do this again.”

She placed a hoof along his cheek. “Anytime you’d like.” Celestia sighed happily, giving him an unending smile. “Both of those songs were great and I loved the dance, but, would you mind if we cuddled on the bed again?”

He shook his head. “Not at all. Oh, Celestia, do you like instrumental music?”

“Oh yes, it’s one of my favorite kinds of music.”

Daniel closed his eyes and briefly grinned. “Great, just let me start the right track.” Fortunately, their dance ended very near the computer. He reached over and moved the mouse, double clicking another song, one that was lower on the list, and then he walked his companion back over to the bed. The two returned to the center and sat closely as the next song began to play.

The melody started off with a piano, its soothing tones quickly permeating the room, making Celestia sigh as she rested her head beside Daniel’s. “What is this lovely piece called?”

Daniel nuzzled against Celestia, wrapping his arms around her. “Mmm…it’s called “The Promise.””

“Beautiful…” Celestia’s voice trailed off as she let the music flow into her lightly twitching ears. “Daniel?”

“Hmm?” He muttered, rubbing his hand along the velvety fur along her barrel.

Celestia placed her hoof along his shoulder, softly running it along the sleeve of his shirt. For a moment, she contemplated asking him if they should promise each other something, anything, but she thought it might seem silly. After all, they’d just declared their love for each other. There would still be time for promises, Celestia felt almost certain of that.

She moved her hoof to softly pat his chest. “This is a really wonderful song.”

“I know…that’s why I wanted to play it for you. It’s calm and soothing…it reminds me of you. You know, you make me feel peaceful.” Daniel looked up at her, his eyes glistening in the delicate glow of his nightstand light.

“Aww…Daniel.” She smiled at him, her chest lightly heaving as the strings of a violin added to the emotion of the song. Celestia leaned her head against him harder and snuggled closer to him. A faint coo left her mouth as she embraced him in her hooves.

“Celestia.” Daniel spoke in a hushed voice. He began nuzzling her with both cheeks, first the left and then the right, moving his head back and forth as he trailed along her neck.

Celestia enjoyed his loving gesture, whimpering softly under her breath. She gasped quietly as she felt his lips brush against her neck. Daniel then began decorating her with short tender kisses, but she knew they weren’t the products of lust, rather, they were filled with a sincere passion, and stemmed from the love for her he was nurturing in his heart.

Her forelimbs drew him closer as she kissed his forehead, nuzzling him back just as affectionately, feeling her own heart beating close to his as they continued to cuddle. Again it was clear to her, like it had been earlier that same evening.

“I love you, Daniel.”

His gaze met hers and he placed his hand along her cheek. “I love you, Celestia.”

The two remained embraced as they continued to snuggle, enjoying the last few songs on Daniel’s playlist, that he later told her was made especially for her.

* * * * *

The last song had just completed and the computer’s speakers grew silent. Celestia turned to Daniel and softly kissed his cheek. “Was that the last one?”

He nodded. “Yes, and I didn’t set the list to repeat. Oh, and I just realized, we never actually dance, danced.”

“That’s more than all right, there will be other nights.” Celestia sighed contently. “I really enjoyed sitting her and listening to those songs with you, and those few slow dances we shared were wonderful.”

“Yeah, they definitely were, and I’m glad you enjoyed the music.” He chuckled rubbing his cheek against her mane.

“I certainly did.” She giggled briefly, enjoying the brush of his cheek along her hair. “Now, I hope this won’t spoil the mood, but before we do anything else, I should go freshen up in the bathroom, that way we can do whatever we want and then just drift off to sleep. Oh, and you can do the same, if you want.”

Daniel nodded. “That sounds like a good idea. I should take care of my teeth and “freshen up” as you said. Then…” He gave her affectionate eyes. “We can, yeah, make love together, like we did last night.” He smiled at her half-eyed as he held a lock of her mane is his hand, stroking it gingerly with his thumb.

Celestia felt titillated from his words and happily shared his smile. “Yes, making love again would be wonderful.”

“In that case, my dear, ladies first.”

She giggled at him as they moved apart and left the bed. “All right, my darling. Hmm, I won’t be long, then you can have the bathroom.”

“Take your time, honey. I’ll shut down the computer in the meantime.”

“Okay.” Celestia gave him a quick kiss on the lips. Then departed his room, partially closing the door behind her.

Daniel stared at the door for a few seconds, still wearing a joyful smile on his face. He turned and walked toward his bedroom window. Parting the curtains, he took a look outside. There was no sign of the moon or any stars. It was then that he noticed a purple flash, off in the distance. He shook his head and took another look. Several seconds passed and he noticed another distant flash.

Placing his hand to his chin, Daniel nodded. He remembered the threatening clouds he saw during his flight with Celestia. Sitting back at his computer, he also remembered the storms that were heading their way, when he last checked the weather map.

He opened the web browser and returned to the weather site to check on the radar. Daniel studied the map closely. The storms were still out there, but from the motion of the radar it appeared that the worst was going to stay to their north. There was a small cluster of green blobs, each one dotted with specs of yellow, orange and red. However, they seemed to be staying to the south, and at this time of night, the chances of them building to anything major was remote. At best they might get a few flashes of far-off lighting.

Daniel scoffed, when he realized they probably wouldn’t even get a single rumble of thunder out of this. Though, the disappointment quickly faded. After all, this would allow him to share a peaceful night with Celestia. That was something he looked forward to more than any storms.

Having turned off the computer, Daniel stood by the bed as he pulled back the covers. He looked over and spied Celestia’s crown, which was sitting next to her large necklace on top of the dresser. Making his way to the dresser, Daniel deftly picked it up. He stared at the large magenta jewel fixed to the center and noticed his face reflected in the polished gold.

Before his mind could wander, he heard the sounds of the bathroom door open from out in the hall. Daniel set her crown back on the dresser, just as she returned from the bathroom.

Celestia greeted him with a loving smile. “The bathroom is all yours.”

He smiled back and gave her a nod. “All right. I’ll be back.”

This time, Celestia watched him as he left the bedroom, only Daniel didn’t bother to shut the door. He didn’t really see the need since he would be back.

Daniel stepped into the bathroom, and closed the door behind him. He took in a deep breath and could immediately tell she had been there. Celestia left a very pleasant scent in her wake. It smelled like she did as they made love the night before, and was combined with a hint of her perfume and the fading smell of mint toothpaste. Daniel wasn’t entirely sure what all made up her scent, all he knew was that he definitely enjoyed it.

He stood at the sink, staring blankly into the mirror for a moment, continuing to relish the scent she left behind. Daniel tended to his teeth, flossing and brushing them. Then, he finished off with some cleansing mouthwash. After sloshing it around for a bit, he spit the minty liquid into the sink.

Returning his gaze to the mirror, his thoughts remained focused on Celestia. He smiled, feeling the elevating sensation that came from loving her. Daniel could hardly wait to see how things would progress now that they were in love. Then something dawned on him. He thought back to her crown, and realized she was still a princess, and not just any princess. Daniel remembered that Celestia oversaw an entire nation, which meant she’d have to go back eventually.

This made him feel a brief rush of panic. What if that did happen and she had to leave – he’d lose her.

Looking in the mirror, Daniel could see his face begin to fall. He then decided to hasten his routine and finish up quickly. He didn’t want to waste another second in there, when he could be spending them with her. Despite all the time they’d spent together, he suddenly felt compelled to see her again.

* * * * * *

Meanwhile, Celestia remained in Daniel’s room, waiting for him to finish in the bathroom. She looked around his room and spied her crown resting on the dresser. Celestia walked over to it and ran her hoof along its top edge. Her horn lit up with a golden orange glow as she lifted it up.

Then, just as quickly as she raised it, Celestia set it back down. She walked away hanging her head. Even though part of her had been trying to forget about her royal lineage, Celestia couldn’t repress it altogether. She knew this was just a vacation, which meant it couldn’t last forever.

After all those years alone, Celestia had finally found someone she felt she could be herself with again. Then it dawned on her, when it would finally be time for her to leave – she could only wonder if Daniel would be willing to go back to Equestria with her. She whimpered at the though of going back without him.

Celestia swallowed thickly, this was a most alarming sensation, and she was suddenly possessed with a need to see him, foolish as it may seem.

She grinned uneasily, seeing that he hadn’t returned yet. Then, she gave a firm nod. Regardless of the implications, she would simply go and see him while he was still in the bathroom.

Before she could start for the door, she heard the bathroom door open and in moments, saw him turn and enter the bedroom.

Daniel saw her standing there and quickly rushed over to her. He felt a little childish, but sometimes the heart can be very irrational. To his delight, Celestia trotted to join him. They drew each other into a loving embrace and without a word shared a tender kiss.

They stood there, looking into each other’s glassy eyes. Daniel swept his fingers along her silky locks, while she placed a hoof along his left cheek. “Daniel,” she all but cried. “I just had a frightful thought.”

He kept looking at her, caressing her mane. “So did I. I realized…gulp…you won’t be here forever.”

Celestia nodded solemnly. “Yes, that’s just what I was thinking. Only, Daniel…what will…” She became silent, her feelings had started getting the better of her, making her pause in deference to maintain her composure. Nevertheless, her eyes were filling with tears. “What will…happen to us, when I finally have to leave?” A few tears spilled form her right eye and started rolling down her cheek.

Daniel reached out and caught them on his index finger. “Celestia.” Even though he managed to catch some of her tears, he couldn’t restrain his own. A lone tear led the charge down his face as he felt his heart ache from the sight of his beloved mare in tears. He cleared his throat sharply, endeavoring to maintain his fortitude. “I was j-just…wondering that myself. I’m not really sure,” he responded, shaking his head.

She sniffed quietly, feeling the warm caress of more falling tears. Celestia sobbed, “Why do I have to be a princess?”

Even as more tears continued to mount, Daniel managed a smile for her. He moved his hand to cup her chin, a strong but sincere look was present in his teary eyes. “Celestia, please don’t cry, it’ll be all right. You can’t help the role you were given. Besides…even if I’m not sure what will happen…I am sure of one thing.”

She closed her eyes, flushing out a few more tears. “And what’s that?”

He waited till she opened her eyes again. Then, Daniel leaned to plant a loving kiss on her lips. “I love you…and call me crazy, but I don’t believe anything will ever change that.”

Through her unintended sorrow, Celestia found a way to smile from his kind words. “I feel the same way…I know I love you, Daniel. It’s just…I wish we could always be together. I feel so happy when I’m with you.”

Daniel gingerly rubbed his fingers along her cheek. “Well, you don’t have to leave for some time, right?”

She nodded. “That’s right. I should be able to stay for a good while yet. Luna and I never really said how long I should take off.”

He returned his hand to her mane and continued to smile. “Then that’s something, and…yeah, how about this?”

Celestia blinked at him. “How about what?”

Daniel drew her into a warm and affectionate hug, running his hand along her back. “I’ll stay with you Celestia…as long as I can and more…I promise.”

“Oh…Daniel.” She sobbed, squeezing him tightly in her hooves. “And I promise to stay with you, as long as I can...and whenever I can.”

He chuckled happily as he patted her furry back. Then, they pulled back staying close together. Daniel reached up and gently wiped some of the lingering tears from her eyes. “Come on, dry your eyes, my love. We’re still together.”

“You’re right. I’m just so glad I found you.” Celestia gave him another affectionate squeeze and nuzzled her cheek to his. Then, she looked him in the eye, offering him a warming smile.

“I know how you feel.” Daniel deftly raked his fingers along her colorful locks, sharing her delightful expression. His arms encircled her neck as he proceeded to kiss her. Celestia quickly enfolded her forelegs around him as she happily reciprocated.

They moved to the bed and carefully sat down, continuing their warmhearted kiss. He happily shared a few ginger moans with her, trailing his hand along her barrel, past her lovely wing, where it came to rest along her cutie mark. There, Daniel softly kneaded his fingers along her, savoring the gentle wrestling of their lips.

They let themselves topple back, resting their heads along the pillows, continuing to kiss for a few more moments.

Celestia ran her hoof along his cheek, and joined him in panting quietly for breath. Her gaze fell upon his welcoming face adding to her smile. “Oh Daniel…I.”

He nodded silently. “I know, Celestia. I feel it too.” Daniel reached for her left hoof and brought it to his lips. Gently, he kissed it and returned her loving glance. He released her hoof and indulged in a savoring glance of her beautiful face, stroking her velvety cheek. “Why don’t I lose these clothes?” Daniel looked at her half-lidded.

Celestia sighed, cuddling against his hand, keeping her hooves around him. “Just stay in my hooves, please.” A passionate and somewhat seductive smile formed on her lips. “I’ll help you with your clothes.”

His fingertips resumed grazing her white cheek. “You wouldn’t have to do that.”

“I know, but I want to.” Celestia drew him close and cuddled him amorously.

Daniel was more than happy to return the favor as he snuggled with her. “How did I know you were going to say that?” He snickered at her, then a sly smile formed on his face. “So then…where did you want to start?”

Celestia happily employed her bedroom eyes and pawed at his chest with her left hoof. Her horn lit up with its golden orange glow as her magic encompassed his shirt. “Well,” she giggled, bringing her lips to his ear, “I thought I’d start at the top and work…my way…down.”

Her whispered words sent shivers up Daniel’s spine, adding to his growing anticipation. He untucked his shirttail and gave her an encouraging nod.

Celestia’s smile morphed into a more seductive one as she began tugging his shirt with her magic, gradually lifting it up and uncovering his chest. As she drove the shirt up toward his neck, Celestia placed her hooves on his belly and slid them up to caress his chest.

The motion of her hooves along his chest felt wondrous and caused Daniel to sigh. Even though it was rather distracting, he still managed to pull both his arms in through the sleeves. Now that the shirt was completely off of Daniel, Celestia let it float over to the dresser. She was about to set it down when she felt his lips graze her neck. The shirt fell short of its intended destination and dropped to the floor.

Celestia turned to Daniel and pulled her hooves back, while she rubbed her cheek just below his neck. Then, she proceeded to kiss his chest, very gently, sending more delightful chills up his back, causing him to shudder briefly.

He placed his thumbs into the elastic liner of his shorts. Then he prepared to lower them, when a familiar magical presence joined him in driving them down. Daniel smiled at the gentle glow, which now enveloped his bottom wear. Once the garment cleared his underwear, he let Celestia pull them down to his ankles. She gave them a glance then returned her loving eyes to him. Daniel grinned and silently nodded as he flung his shorts off his feet and onto the floor.

The seductive look remained on Celestia’s face, now that Daniel was in nothing but his underwear. She stared at him, placing her hoof against the white cottony fabric of his undergarment. Celestia rubbed the tip of her limb against his covered crotch, while she continued to give him a rather unnerving stare.

“Hmm…I can see another reason why you humans wear clothing. Even though they can get in the way…removing them one piece at a time can be very…” Celestia paused to giggle, “Delightful.”

Daniel ran his fingertips along her mane, sharing her alluring smile. “I have to agree with you there.” He snickered, looking at her flank. “But, even though you don’t wear clothes, I think your tail more than makes up for it.”

“Oh, does it now?” Celestia chuckled at him, then resumed rubbing her hoof along his crotch. Daniel moaned under his breath, relishing her soothing touch for a few more moments. The pleasant look in his eyes made her sigh contently. “Now then, where were we?” Celestia laid her head on his belly and gave him a spirited smile. “Ah, that’s right…” She grinned using her magic to briefly snap the elastic of his briefs.

Daniel laughed as he scratched behind her ears. “Did you know you’re extremely cute when you look at me like that?”

Celestia’s cheeks turned red, the blush adding the perfect highlight to her lovely white fur. She tittered while she sat up partially and smiled back at him. The slyness returned to her eyes as her horn lit up. Celestia began tugging his underwear down in a teasing fashion, until she uncovered his manhood, which stood proudly at attention. She then hastened her task lowering his underclothes to his feet. Then, he gave her a similar nod and like his shorts, Daniel sent his underwear to join his other clothing on the floor.

He drew her into a loving embrace, running his hand along her flawlessly lovely mane. They continued laying on their sides as they shared a lengthy kiss. Daniel decided to pick up where he left off, placing his hand back on Celestia’s cutie mark. His fingers began tracing the rays along her sunny symbol. She closed her eyes and let out an audible shudder of delight.

Celestia decorated his neck and chest with little kisses, while she placed her left hoof below his belly and slowly trailed it down toward his nether region. She halted her movements when she felt Daniel’s hand move from her flank and brush against her rump. He began nudging her tail away, when he noticed her help him by shifting it to the side, clearing his path. Celestia also adjusted her hind legs and parted them as best she could. Daniel offered her a gracious nod as he glanced down and marveled at the alluring curves of her crescent.

He walked his fingers to her mound and began brushing his fingertips across her warm skin. Celestia let out a passionate sigh just as Daniel parted the delicate petals of her marehood and caressed her moistening flesh. She moaned into his ear, enraptured from his touch and hungry for more. “Mmm, Daniel…that feels wonderful.”

He smiled as he continued touching her, delighted that his caress was so pleasing to her. Just as he considered moving things along, he felt her hoof bump against the tip of his spire. Shivers of pleasure raced up his back, and then, looking into her eyes, he briefly kissed her. Daniel moaned quietly and sighed as he felt her hoof start tickling the smooth underside of his firm spire.

Celestia chuckled at his reaction, but her laughter was quickly replaced by shivering moans as she felt Daniel delicately push two fingers into her and began massaging the wet inner walls of her longing marehood. She daintily moaned, absorbing every blissful motion of his loving digits, and added a little speed to her stroking hoof, pushing against his member.

The lovers exchanged a series or pleasant and lustful moans as their petting escalated. Daniel felt an enchanting tingling in his masculinity, which was strengthened from the affection present in her loving caress. From the adorable whimpers and moans Celestia was making, he knew she must be feeling good, but he wanted to make her feel even better. Daniel recalled something from their shower and raised his free hand to her lengthy horn. He tenderly started brushing his fingers along it making sure to convey his deepest affections for her. Celestia immediately noticed the stimulation along her magical spire. Her eyes opened and she smiled, while gazing at the loving expression on Daniel’s face.

The pleasure began driving Celestia wild, she couldn’t remember the last time she felt this exhilarated. She let her tongue loll out of her mouth as she panted for air. Celestia sensed every ounce of his love and desire in his touch. It made her heart beat rapidly causing her to feel feverishly hot. She knew there must be something she could do to add to Daniel’s pleasure, but she could barely think. Her brain was awash in an endless sea of ecstasy. Still, despite it all, one thought came to her.

Daniel continued sighing and softly moaning from her captivating touch. He was only too happy to reciprocate, overjoyed that he could please her. Then, Daniel felt an added jolt of pleasure as he noticed Celestia began touching him with her other hoof, but she wasn’t caressing him just anywhere. Her other hoof was very gently stroking the fleshy sack below his manhood. The tandem of her hooves left him melting as he felt a nearly endless assault of pleasure.

“Oh…Celestia, mmm, that’s good.” Daniel shivered with delight as he felt the pressure grow in his loins. His breath was growing shallow and he felt his heart pounding in his chest.

A few more minutes passed. “Daniel,” she whimpered, still panting for air. “A-are you ready…t-to move on?”

He slowed his hands and looked upon her, feeling her hooves do the same. “Yes. I am if…you are.”

“Uh-huh.” Celestia smiled at him and patted his right shoulder. There was a slight pause as they rested for a moment and caught their breath. She batted her magenta eyes at him and gave him a sincere look. “My love, I have a request.”

Daniel began running his hand along her hair, sharing her loving eyes. “Name it.”

“Would you please lay on top of me this time? I hope I don’t sound silly, but it’s been so long since I felt the weight of a stal…err… a lover on me. So if you don’t…”

He cut her off, placing his hand gingerly over her mouth. “Of course, my darling. I’d be happy to do it, and you don’t sound silly, uh-uh.” Daniel kissed both of her cheeks, then smooched her lips tenderly.

She brought her mouth to his ear and whispered, “Thank you, Daniel.”

Bringing his lips beside her ear, he softly replied, “Anytime, Celestia. Now, lay on you back.”

Celestia giggled, happy to do as he directed. She took a deep breath as she laid back on the bed, letting her head sink along the plush pillows. She looked up with devoted eyes as Daniel positioned himself above her. He smiled down at her, placing his hand on her right hind leg. His hand slid along her velvety white fur as he rubbed her leg, noticing her muscles lightly twitch under his caring touch.

Daniel felt the grip of a very amorous idea, seeing his beloved laying there like that. He brought his lips to her crescent and very gently kissed it. Then, he began kissing his way up from between her legs, across her belly, to her chest, and finally arrived at her sumptuous lips. Beaming her an affectionate smile, he locked her into a deep and passionate kiss.

Celestia felt her body tingle all over from his romantic gesture. Her wings began twitching and she could no longer fight it. Arching her back slightly, Celestia let her wings stretch out freely. She shivered with delight feeling very invigorated and decided to deepen their kiss even more.

Daniel quickly received the message and together they joined their tongues for an extension of their intimacy. Elegant moans filled the room as they savored their kiss, trying to breathe through their noses, before they had to part and take in addition gasps of air.

She looked up at him, and swirled her right hoof along his chest and softly whispered, “Daniel.”

He gave her an endearing smile, placing his right hand along her chest. Daniel swept his hand along her velvety fur, just above her beating heart. She clutched his hand with her left hoof, while he ran the back of his left hand along her silky mane and quietly replied, “Celestia.”

Daniel placed his hands on her slender shoulders and straddled his legs around her hind legs, delighted when his skin came in contact with her fur. Celestia giggled with anticipation, staring intensely at him. He moved closer to her and grinning at her, Daniel brushed the head of his manhood along her slit, gingerly rubbing against her for just a few moments. Then, the truest of looks formed on his face, making Celestia’s smile continue to grow. Daniel pushed against her marehood, slowly entering her and causing them both to shudder from the delightful sensation.

Celestia let her head drift back as she felt his length slide inside her. She gave his manhood a welcoming squeeze of her inner walls, eliciting a pleasant moan from him. Then, he eased himself down on top of her. Celestia felt the force of his weight and happily wrapped her hooves around him. She rubbed her cheek along his and cooed contently.

Keeping his firm but gently grip on her shoulders, Daniel began moving on her, forming a wondrous motion between them. Celestia removed her right hoof from around him and ran it across the upper part of his chest, while her eyes teemed with devotion. He shared her loving glance, adding more speed to his movement. Gradually, they both began filling the room with new blissful moans of fiery passion.

Celestia felt the fervent sensation resume building up within her, only this time it was even more intense. She placed her hooves on his cheeks and drew him into a heated kiss, moaning lustfully for him. Daniel returned her kiss, feeling his desire grow for her as he continued thrusting against her. The mounting pressure returned to his loins, causing him to move his hands closer to her wings. Celestia whimpered as she felt his hands squeeze along the base of her wings. She’d nearly forgotten how good it could feel to have that area stimulated during sex.

She gave him a very seductive glance moaning and panting as he maintained his rhythmic movements. Celestia whimpered again and let out a string of pleasant moans, noticing her breath deepening with each second, right along with Daniel’s.

Her body trembled as her moans and sighs became more frequent. Just like last night, Celestia felt wonderful. Daniel’s love for her was present in each careful thrust and every loving squeeze of his hands. As he looked down at her, she could tell he felt every ounce of her growing love as she continued to squeeze around him and embrace him in her hooves.

Daniel felt his mind growing fuzzy from the rapturous ecstasy of their union. He felt his heart pound in his chest as sweat started dripping from his body. Staring down at her, Daniel leaned in and gave her a brief kiss.

Their breathing continued to intensify as Daniel and Celestia's bodies were ravaged by their unbridled desire for each other. A symphony of loving moans and joyous sighs saturated the air, driving them closer and closer to the edge.

As the minutes passed, Celestia consumed every moment of joy she shared with Daniel. Her mind was a jumble, but she didn’t care, all that mattered was having him so close to her. She squeezed her hooves and her inner walls around Daniel adding to the heat of the moment.

He thrust into her a few more times and felt her body tremble heavily. Celestia began moaning repeatedly as her back lightly arched. She cast out a wonderfully elated moan and Daniel felt a warm fluid spurt along his manhood. The delightful wailing of his mare shattered the last bit of his restraint. He grunted softly and then let out a pleasant moan as he burst several times inside of her, feeling his deepening love and desire for her. His arms moved to surround her and he joined her in gasping rapidly for breath.

Several moments passed and Daniel and Celestia began to breathe more peacefully. He looked down at her and saw her loving eyes staring at him. Softly, she caressed his cheek. “That was perfect, my love. Just like last night.”

Daniel reached down and gingerly stroked her mane. “It was incredible…wondrous, my sweet Celestia.”

She whimpered, while keeping her hoof along his cheek. Celestia could tell from the quiver in his voice that the passion of the moment had gotten to him. A new loving smile formed on her face as she brushed her hoof against his brown hair. “You’re so sweet.” She saw the glistening in his eyes and felt her own eyes become misty. “Oh, Daniel.”

“My princess,” he whispered. Then, Daniel noticed she was still partially panting for air. “Should I move off you?”

She shook her head. “Not yet. I want to savor your weight on me, for just a few more moments.” Then her smile grew. “Are you worried about me…not being able to get enough air?”

“Um, well…I never want to do anything to hurt you.”

Celestia giggled happily at him. “Oh, you’re fine, sweetheart. But, if you’d like to move off me now, we can cuddle.”

He nodded. “Of course.”

Daniel moved off of her and propped himself up on his knees. Celestia pulled in her wings and turned on her side. She brushed her hoof along his shoulder and then motioned for him to join her. He smiled back and laid by her side. Daniel sighed contently, placing his arms around her.

Celestia wrapped her hooves around him and cuddled close to him. She placed her left hind leg against his leg and gave him a winsome look. “Another magical day, together.”

“Yeah. Oh, and just wait till the weekend.” He chuckled, once again stroking her lengthy mane.

“That’s right, the trip we’re going on to see those waterfalls you told me about.” Celestia took a deep soothing breath as she imagined what it would be like to stand with him at such a tranquil setting. “Mmm, I can hardly wait.”

“Same here. But just think, we still have the rest of the week to spend together…well, aside from the time I’ll be at work.”

“We certainly do. Though, right now, I’m just glad I can stay with you, all night long.” Celestia gently bumped her forehead against his, still mindful of her horn.

“Yeah…all night long. Just you and me.” Daniel nuzzled against her and let out a staggered yawn.

Celestia chuckled as she spied his alarm clock. “Where did the evening go? It’s almost eleven.” Then, she joined him, letting out a quiet yawn of her own. “Oh my, I guess we should get some rest. I know you’ll want to be ready for work in the morning.”

He nodded firmly. “Yeah, but right now, I just want to think about you, till I fall asleep.”

She snuggled closer to him and hugged Daniel tightly. “Aww…” Celestia smiled and shared a lengthy good night kiss with him.

He chuckled, feeling exceptionally giddy. “Good night, my love.” Daniel reached over and turned out his nightstand lamp, then pulled the covers up over them.

“Good night, my darling one.” Celestia withdrew her hooves from around him and placed them along his chest, nestling against him.

Daniel kept his loving arms around her and stayed close to her. They closed their eyes and drifted off to sleep. The room grew quiet, except for the occasional hum of the central air.

* * * * *

The bedroom was all but quiet. Only the combined sound of Daniel and Celestia’s breathing could be heard. The two had been resting peacefully for nearly two hours.

It was getting a little warm and stuffy, now that the air-conditioning had reached temperature and was off for a time. Celestia murmured faintly from within her slumber. She adjusted her hooves on Daniel’s chest, then grew silent again.

A minor rumble of thunder caused her ears to twitch for a moment. A few minutes went by and another, slightly louder, clap of thunder broke the tranquillity of the bedroom. Celestia moaned briefly, and tugged the covers up closer to her cheek.

Barely a minute passed and a third crash of thunder filled the room. She gasped awake, in time to see a vibrant strobe of lightning flicker at the bedroom window, momentarily illuminating the area in an eerie purple light. It was followed moments later by a booming rumble of thunder. Celestia whimpered as she cuddled closer to Daniel.

He began stirring from his slumber and felt he gentle movements. Daniel repositioned his arms around her and held her close. He took a deep breath and adjusted his head along the pillow. It was then that Daniel heard an echoing rumble of thunder and noticed Celestia was trembling within his embrace. Opening his eyes, he glanced around. Everything seemed all right, until he witnessed a bright flash of lighting. He heard her whimper again during the accompanying thunder.

“Celestia, honey, are you okay?”

“Hmm?” she mumbled somewhere between awake and asleep. Celestia opened her eyes and realized Daniel was awake. “Daniel.” More thunder echoed in the bedroom. “Where’d these storms come from?”

“I think the storms I saw on the radar, didn’t track as far north as I expected. That, or the little specs I saw to the south found a way to intensify.” Celestia cringed following another flicker, bracing for the incoming roar of thunder. Daniel cradled her in his arms. “Hey, what’s wrong? You’re still shaking.”

“Oh, it’s silly.”

Daniel kept his left arm around her and began running his fingers along her satiny mane. “Tell me, please. I want to help, if I can.”

Celestia gave him a thoughtful look. It warmed her heart that he was trying to be so helpful. She placed her hoof along his chest. “It’s the thunder. I’ve never really liked it. The sound hurts my ears and is just generally disruptive.”

Daniel gave her a sympathetic nod. “Well, I can certainly understand why. When I was younger, I used to be afraid of storms like these, but now, I don’t mind them so much. But they can be noisy.”

Celestia giggled, rubbing her hoof along his bare chest. “Exactly. Oh, and you remember me telling you about the weather patrol, right?”

Daniel nodded affirmatively. “Yeah, they control the weather and work off a pre-determined schedule.”

“That’s right. Since I’m a busy ruler, I don’t permit the weather team to schedule any thunderstorms in Canterlot. I don’t mind normal rainstorms, windstorms or even snowstorms, I just don’t want any thunder and lightning.” Celestia removed her hoof and laid her head against his chest.

He continued stroking her mane, resting his chin along her crown. “I can’t say I blame you.” Daniel couldn’t help but wonder if there wasn’t more to this than she was telling him. Nevertheless, he figured rather than pry, he’d simply be there for her.

Celestia continued to enjoy his gentle caress along her mane. Thunder continued to rumble as the rain began falling. She trembled in response to the additional booms, but felt better as she nuzzled along Daniel’s chest. She sat there in thought for a moment. Part of her wanted to tell him the real reason she detested thunderstorms, but she just couldn’t bring herself to reveal the truth.

“Daniel?”

“Yes, my love?” He held her close, beaming her a loving smile, which she could see in the flickering lightning.

“Hold me tighter, and don’t let me go.” Celestia wrapped her hooves around him and continued to snuggle against him.

He let out a deep sigh and held her tightly, and then continued to affectionately comb his fingers through her hair. “Hmm, I’ve got you…and I won’t let you go.”

The two snuggled down under the covers and remained close. Celestia replaced her hooves along his chest and smiled as she felt his arms remain around her.

She gave a long listen, and noticed the thunder was growing quieter. The sound of the falling rain striking the side of the house seemed to prevail. “Is it me, or are the storms…”

“Yeah.” Daniel joined her in taking a lengthy listen. “Looks like the worst has past us. Just some lingering rumbles of thunder now and some rain.” He stroked her cheek and gave her a loving kiss.

She smiled at him and gave him a passionate kiss, softly running her hoof along his hair. “Thank you, Daniel.”

He returned her joyful expression. “Anytime, Celestia. I love you.”

“And I love you.” Celestia kissed his forehead, then snuggled close to him.

Gradually they began to fall back to sleep and the sounds of the storms grew softer and more distant. The rain continued its soothing march, just before the central air kicked on, offering its refreshing breeze to the once stuffy room. In moments, the two were soundly asleep.

Author's Notes:

Note: I will leave the links to these songs, but the posted lyrics from "Beautiful" and "My Heart Will Go On" have been removed so this chapter no longer contains any copyrighted song lyrics.

Here is the link to the first featured song - "Beautiful" by Akon ft. Colby O'Donis and Kardinal Offishall. I didn't include the link in the body of the chapter, mainly due to the parts of the song that just didn't seem to fit this story, but I liked this song enough that I felt the other parts, which I referenced, would be fitting to the story. In fact, if you look closely, you can see where I originally got the idea for the title of this story. ~_^

The second featured song was Celine Dion's - "My Heart Will Go On". For a while now, I've had a vision of these two dancing to this song and thought now was the time to use it.

The third featured song was Secret Garden's - "The Promise". This piece helped me come up with a fitting title and last minute scene that I feel added even more heart to this chapter. A friend of mine shared this piece with me and I knew I had to find a way to work it in.

Now, before any of you go wondering, other songs were mentioned but I only featured three. Later in the story other songs from Daniel's playlist for Celestia will be reference, but for this chapter, I felt the three I chose kept things interesting without making the chapter too long.

- Jaydex