Love Me Like You Do

The night in Canterlot city was alive with the soft glow of lights, flickering like a thousand tiny stars scattered across the night sky. The air was warm, carrying the faint scent of fresh bread and spices from the nearby food vendors, the kind of warmth that felt like a comforting embrace after a long day. Above, the cool night sky stretched out in all its glory, offering a stark contrast to the city’s electric hum. It was a night where the stars above seemed to shine just a little bit brighter, as though they were putting on a show just for the two of them.

The streets were busy as usual, filled with late-night wanderers strolling along the sidewalks, but tonight, there was a certain stillness—a quiet that seemed to hush the city around them. It was as if Canterlot, with all its grandness and bustle, had decided to slow down just a little to make space for the moment shared between Applejack and Rainbow Dash. They were sitting side by side on a bench, the edge of it just barely enough to hold both of them without it feeling cramped. The lights of the city below spread out in a sparkling carpet of golden warmth, stretching toward the horizon and wrapping around the tall buildings like a blanket.

It had only been three weeks—three weeks since everything had changed. Graduation had come and gone, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Three weeks since Rainbow Dash had become the newest member of the Wonderbolts, a dream she’d worked tirelessly for, and the very same dream that had lit her up like a firecracker, bursting with energy and pride. Three weeks since they had shared their first date, that hesitant but exciting shift from friendship to something deeper. But tonight, Applejack noticed something different in Rainbow.

Her usual spark was there, but there was a layer of quietness tonight, a reflection behind her eyes that didn’t quite fit with the energetic persona she wore so naturally. Applejack could feel it, the subtle shift in the air, the tension of unspoken thoughts. It wasn’t sadness, but it wasn’t the usual exuberance either. Maybe it was the weight of all the changes, or maybe something else entirely. Whatever it was, Applejack didn’t press.

Instead, after a while, she tilted her head back, letting the cool night air ruffle her hair as she looked up at the sky. The stars shone brightly, scattered across the vast expanse above them. She took in the quiet of the moment before her gaze shifted back to Rainbow Dash. There was something in the way she spoke, in the quiet yet intentional tone, that made her words sound almost like a confession, like she was sharing something personal.

“Ya know, RD... I’ve always wondered what it’d be like to visit Cloudsdale,” Applejack said, her voice thoughtful as she leaned back slightly. “See the lights. See what makes it different from Canterlot. I bet it’s somethin’ else, huh?”

She turned to face Rainbow fully now, her green eyes reflecting the starry sky above, waiting for a response but not pushing for one. She understood that sometimes, it was the quiet moments, the shared spaces between words, that said the most.

Rainbow blinked, clearly caught off guard by the question. She shifted in her seat, her gaze briefly flickering to the distant city lights, a soft breath escaping her lips as she collected her thoughts. Then, with a shrug, she looked back at Applejack. “Cloudsdale?” she repeated, her tone a mix of surprise and amusement, as if the idea of anyone wanting to visit her hometown was as foreign as... well, something totally unexpected. “You’ve seen Cloudsdale before, right? Like... in the sky when I’m flyin’ high, doin’ tricks with the Wonderbolts. It’s not that different. Kinda looks like Canterlot, only higher up and with more clouds,” she said, brushing off the idea with a casual ease.

But Applejack noticed the subtle shift in Rainbow’s expression—the way her eyes glimmered just a little when she mentioned flying. There was a faraway look to her gaze, like she was caught in a memory of soaring high above the ground, weightless and free. It was a fleeting moment, but Applejack saw it. She could see how much that world, that sense of freedom, meant to Rainbow, even if she wasn’t ready to dive into it just yet.

Applejack raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at her lips as she crossed her arms, leaning back slightly. Her stance was relaxed, but there was a certain challenge in the air now, a sense of lighthearted teasing. "I reckon you’d say that," she said, her voice light but with a knowing undertone. "But I imagine flyin’ through the clouds, lookin' out over the whole city—well, the sky, really—has to be somethin’ that’s hard to describe. It's one of those things you can’t really get until you experience it yourself, can you?" She leaned in just a bit, her green eyes softening as she looked at Rainbow, her curiosity clear. There was something sincere in her gaze, a question, not just about the sky, but about the things Rainbow might not have shared yet—the things that made her tick, that made her feel at home among the clouds.

Rainbow didn’t immediately respond. Instead, she let out a quiet laugh, her lips curling into a half-smile as she looked up at the stars for a moment. “Well, maybe... it is kinda cool when I think about it. I guess it’s one of those things you can’t really explain to someone who’s never flown,” she said with a thoughtful look in her eyes, before her usual cocky grin returned. “But you know what, AJ? When I make big bucks then and get my own jet, maybe I’ll take you up there. Fly over Cloudsdale, see the lights from above. It’ll be just you and me, no crowds, no distractions, just the stars, the city, and us. What do you say?”

Applejack’s heart gave a little lurch at the thought, and the warmth that filled her chest was unmistakable. She smiled, leaning her shoulder against Rainbow’s, the gesture easy and familiar. “You’d really do that? Take me up there with you?” she asked, her voice low but full of genuine curiosity.

Rainbow’s grin widened at the sound of Applejack’s tone, a mix of fondness and a little playfulness. “Of course I would,” she said, nudging Applejack with her elbow. “Who else would I trust to keep me grounded while I’m up in the sky?”

Applejack chuckled at the sentiment, feeling a mix of warmth and something deeper stir in her chest. The stars above, the city lights below, and the shared moment between them made everything else seem so distant—like the world had narrowed down to just the two of them, existing in a space where the possibilities felt endless. “I suppose I’m the only one who can do that, huh? But I reckon you sure owe me one.”

Rainbow tilted her head back and laughed, the sound genuine and free, but there was something in her eyes that softened the usual bravado. “Yeah, I guess I do,” she admitted, her smile quieter now, more sincere. “I’ll make it happen, Dude. Just wait. I’m gonna get that jet, and when I do, we’re gonna fly above Cloudsdale. We’ll take a ride through the city lights, and you’ll see just what I’m talkin’ about. It’s gonna be a ride to remember.”

Applejack raised an eyebrow, her gaze teasing, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. “Oh, I can’t wait. When I’m sittin’ in that jet, I’ll have to call you ‘Sky Shark’ every time we take off, huh?” she teased, her voice light, as if imagining the moment already.

Rainbow’s expression shifted immediately, turning mischievous. Her eyes narrowed, and she leaned in just a bit closer, her grin spreading across her face. “Sky Shark? I kinda like the ring of it,” she said, a playful sparkle in her eyes. “I think that works. I’ll be the fastest, most dangerous thing in the sky, and I’ll make sure that ride is smoother than a fresh-cut apple pie.”

Applejack couldn’t help but laugh, shaking her head in disbelief. “Sky Shark, huh? You sure know how to pick names. What’s that jet even called again?” she asked, genuinely curious but still clearly enjoying the playful banter.

Rainbow leaned back, puffing out her chest with pride. “It’s the F-22 Raptor, a real fighter jet. Fast, sleek, and deadly,” she replied, her voice carrying that familiar confidence. “But yeah, from now on, it’s the Sky Shark. I’m gonna fly circles around everyone, and you’ll be right there with me.”

Applejack chuckled, shaking her head again, the sound of her laughter warm and easy in the night air. "Sky Shark, huh? Well, if you’re gonna be flying circles around folks, I reckon I’ll just sit back and enjoy the view," she said with a grin. "But I’m lookin' forward to it, RD. I can already picture it—just you, me, and the sky, lookin' clueless as ever."

"Better believe it," Rainbow replied, her voice full of affection and a playful smirk still on her face. "Chillax, Dude. Sky Shark’s gonna be a real blast. And when I take you up there, we’re gonna fly through those lights like nothing else matters.”

“Well, that sounds... dangerous,” Applejack’s voice hesitated, but there was a hint of awe underneath. Her heart fluttered, a warm rush of excitement and affection swelling inside her chest. She tilted her head slightly, the teasing glint in her green eyes softened with something deeper. “But I reckon I’ll hold onto my hat when we do that. You’re sure I’ll make it through, right?”

Rainbow winked, her smile softening, the usual playful cockiness replaced with something a little more tender. She leaned in a bit, her voice quieter, more intimate now. “Don’t worry, Cowgirl. I’ll make sure the ride’s smooth for you. You won’t regret it, promise. Just you, me, and the open sky.” Her tone lingered, the words wrapped in warmth and the quiet affection of someone who was more than ready to share this moment.

Applejack smiled, feeling the warmth inside her chest grow as she leaned her head against Rainbow’s shoulder. The closeness between them felt comforting, like the night itself was holding them. She inhaled deeply, savoring the calm before she spoke again. “Guess I better start packin’ my bags then. I’m gonna need something sturdy to hold onto with that Sky Shark of yours.” Her words were light, playful, but there was a softness to her voice that spoke of something deeper. The flicker of excitement was still there, but now it was mixed with a quiet affection—something that made her heart beat a little faster.

“You’ll be the first one to fly in it, AJ.”

Rainbow’s eyes softened, and for a moment, the usual spark of her cocky energy dimmed. She looked down at Applejack, a slight vulnerability slipping into her gaze. Her voice dropped just a touch lower, as if the weight of the moment was too much for anything too flippant.

“I owe you, Just wait. I’ll show you Cloudsdale, and we’ll make it a ride to remember.” She spoke as if she were making a promise—not just about the jet, but about something more: a future where they could share moments like this, just the two of them.

Applejack looked up at the stars, feeling the pull of adventure growing in her chest, but more than that, she felt the pull of something deeper, something stronger. No matter what happened, no matter where their paths would take them, she knew that moments like this—with Rainbow by her side—were ones she would never forget.

-----

‘You’re the light, you’re the night.’

< Applejack blinked awake, her senses slowly drawing her out of slumber. The golden light of the morning crept through the apartment windows, spilling in like a slow wave of warmth, banishing the shadows that lingered in the corners of the dim bedroom. The sunlight was a delicate ribbon of light, the only thing in the room that seemed to possess any real substance, casting a soft glow over everything it touched. In that quiet moment, the world outside seemed far away, muffled by the tranquility that surrounded her.

She couldn’t help but smile as her gaze settled on Rainbow, still deep in her peaceful slumber. The light kissed her skin, casting gentle highlights on her features, and for a fleeting moment, Rainbow looked almost ethereal. Her vibrant hair shimmered under the sunlight, each strand a streak of color caught in the glow, framing her face in a halo of warmth. Rainbow's face, softened in sleep, was bathed in a light so soft it seemed almost unreal, like a precious piece of art illuminated on a stage. Every curve of her cheek, every gentle rise and fall of her breath, was framed by the delicate light, giving her a clarity that left Applejack breathless.

Rainbow is lost in her world of dreams, her posture curled up like a ball, cuddling the tortoise plush Applejack gave her for her 20th birthday. Flashes of memories flood Applejack's mind, reminding her that it’s been two years since that day, considering they’re both 22 this year. She watches the rhythm of Dash’s body as she sleeps, the gentle rise and fall of her chest, and the soft, steady sound of her breathing—it’s like an instrumental masterpiece, a melody Applejack would never tire of hearing.

Rainbow’s hair, still streaked with vibrant colors, framed her face, but Applejack’s gaze lingered on the way the light revealed the natural brown roots that were beginning to show. The vibrant colors, once so bold, were slowly fading. It had been months since Rainbow had retouched her hair, but Applejack found herself smiling at the sight. It was a small detail, but one that felt so intimate—a reminder of the real, unpolished moments between them. Her skin glowed softly in the early light, her lips, full and tinted with a natural pink, were the ones Applejack found herself drawn to again and again. The kind of lips that carried the warmth of their shared moments, the ones Applejack couldn't resist kissing each time they met, no matter how many times before.

It was a treasure, really, to witness this side of Rainbow Dash—usually the tough, fearless force that powered through every obstacle in her path. The woman who faced every challenge with unwavering confidence and pride, the one who made everything seem easy. But in this quiet moment, when the world was still and Rainbow was soft and vulnerable, Applejack saw something few ever got the privilege of witnessing. Rainbow’s armor was gone, her usual bravado stripped away, leaving only the girl she loved. In this vulnerable, delicate state, Dash was open, her guard completely down, revealing the tender side that was hers to keep. Applejack knew this was a rare glimpse—a privilege, really. Most would never get to see Rainbow like this, unguarded, unshielded, and completely trusting. This side of Dash was reserved only for her, and Applejack held onto it like a precious secret.

It was an intimacy that went beyond the physical, a deeper understanding and connection that made Applejack’s heart ache with tenderness. She couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude, to be the one who had earned this quiet space beside Rainbow. The side of her that was open, vulnerable, and all hers. The thought made Applejack's chest swell with love, knowing she was the one Rainbow trusted to see her in this light—a light that wasn't just the bright, shining force of her spirit, but the soft, glowing warmth that filled the quiet spaces of their shared world. This was their world, and in it, Rainbow was both the light and the night, the constant force that gave Applejack everything she needed.

It’s a treasure to witness this side of Rainbow Dash—usually the tough, strong, and undefeatable force that faces every challenge head-on with unshakable confidence. But in this quiet, vulnerable moment, Applejack is seeing something few ever get the chance to witness. This softer, more fragile side of Dash, the one that lets her guard down completely, Rainbow’s armor was gone, her usual bravado stripped away, leaving only the girl she loved. In this vulnerable, delicate state, Dash was open, revealing the tender side that was hers to keep. Applejack knows it’s a rare privilege to see Dash in such a delicate state, where the fierce, untouchable persona is stripped away, leaving only the girl she loves. It’s a side of Dash that no one else gets to experience, and Applejack feels incredibly lucky to be the one to see her like this—open, unguarded, is reserved only for her, and Applejack held onto it like a precious secret.

’You're the color of my blood.’

Goddess, Applejack’s a total simp for her girlfriend, and she knows it. It’s as if Rainbow Dash is so deeply woven into the fabric of her being that she’s no longer just a part of her life; she’s the very essence of it. The way Rainbow breathes through Applejack’s every thought, every heartbeat, is undeniable. Rainbow’s presence is like the color of Applejack’s blood—coursing through her veins, defining her every movement, her every feeling. Applejack couldn’t imagine life without her. It’s not just a relationship—it’s the foundation of her existence, the pulse that keeps her alive.

For 22 years, Applejack has lived in this world, but half of that time has been spent with Dash by her side. They’ve been intertwined since middle school, two souls unknowingly drawn together by something bigger than themselves. Back then, they were blind to it, just friends caught up in the easy simplicity of schoolyard smiles and shared laughs. But time, with its slow and insistent nature, began to change things. What started as harmless teasing and playful banter soon evolved into something much more—a feeling that couldn’t be ignored, a need that couldn’t be denied. It was at the Fall Formal, when everything shifted, when they both finally confessed their feelings, that Applejack realized just how deep this connection ran. The fear of losing each other, of breaking the delicate thread between them, melted away in that moment. And since then, Rainbow Dash had become as essential to Applejack as blood itself.

Rainbow wasn’t just the color of Applejack’s world—she was the blood that flowed through it, pulsing with life, vibrant and impossible to escape. Applejack could feel her in every heartbeat, see her in every sunrise, and taste her in every breath. Life without Dash? Unthinkable. For Applejack, her love for Rainbow is as natural and necessary as the blood that keeps her alive.!

’You're the cure, you're the pain.’

The past three years have been a whirlwind—a storm of emotions, full of wild highs and crushing lows. A rollercoaster, in every sense. They’ve fought, they’ve clashed, and at times, they’ve hurt each other in ways that only love so raw and intense can do. The kind of pain that comes from two people so deeply invested in each other, yet sometimes too stubborn, too fiery, to see eye to eye. But through it all, one thing has remained constant: Rainbow Dash. She’s been both the cause of their tension and the balm that soothes it.

In their worst moments, Dash could be a whirlwind of chaos, a spark that lit the fuse to their disagreements, the kind of pain that burned so fiercely between them. But just as easily, she could be the calm after the storm. She could be the soothing touch that healed Applejack's broken heart, the soft words that patched up every tear in their bond. Rainbow was the pain that could sting, but she was also the cure—the one who knew how to make it better, to fix what was broken with just a simple word, a quiet gesture, a look that spoke volumes.

Their love was complicated—sometimes hard, sometimes soft, sometimes messy—but always real. It wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it. And now, sitting side by side in their shared apartment, with the weight of those three years still fresh in their minds, Applejack wouldn’t want to go through this crazy ride with anyone else but Rainbow Dash. Because even with the pain, the struggle, and the times when everything felt just a little too difficult, Rainbow is the cure. She’s the one who makes everything worth it. She’s the one who fills Applejack’s life with light, with laughter, with love.

Applejack wouldn’t ask for anyone else by her side. She couldn't imagine a better girlfriend, not in a million years. The word girlfriend echoed in her mind like a favorite song on repeat, its melody soothing and familiar. Even after three whole years, Applejack still couldn’t quite believe it—that this incredible, stubborn, brilliant girl beside her, the one who’d claimed her heart in ways she never thought possible, was her own, her own girlfriend. It was still a dream, a soft reality that felt like something too perfect to be true, but it was hers, and that was enough.

Oh wait... It’s their three-year anniversary. Suddenly, the realization hit Applejack like a wave crashing against the shore. That’s why today felt different, brighter than any other day in Canterlot. It wasn’t just the sunshine that seemed to carry a bit more warmth or the air that felt just a little bit fresher—it was the meaning behind it all. Three years. Three years of laughter, tears, love, and everything in between. That was the reason the world felt a little more alive today, why the moments they shared had an extra sparkle. Because this day wasn’t just any day—it was ‘their’ day. The day that marked the start of everything, the day everything began to fall into place.

The sun shining so brightly outside was nothing compared to the light she felt inside her chest, glowing stronger than it ever had before. It was the kind of warmth that only came from knowing that this was real, that she had someone who was there, through it all, and always would be.

’You're the only thing i want to touch.’

As much as Applejack wants to lose herself in the moment, to let her eyes linger on every curve and detail of her girlfriend, to feel the warmth of Rainbow Dash’s skin beneath her fingertips—she knows she could do it forever, touch her forever and never tiring of the sight or the touch. But the world doesn't stop spinning. There's still a day ahead, still responsibilities and things to do. The rhythm of her life, one that’s so deeply intertwined with Rainbow’s, keeps moving, even when all she wants to do is stay wrapped in the comfort of their shared space.

Reluctantly, Applejack gets up from the cozy bed, careful not to disturb the peaceful rhythm of Rainbow’s breathing. She stands for a moment, watching her girlfriend sleep, the soft rise and fall of her chest, before turning toward the bathroom.

The cool light of the morning greets her, and she pauses at the mirror, glancing at her reflection— And my God, AJ... what the fuck is going on with your hair?

----

The smell of freshly baked Apple Pie wafted through the entire apartment, filling the air with a warmth so inviting it might as well have been a tangible cloud, sweet and tempting, drifting lazily through the space. The scent clung to the morning light, curling around corners and under doors, finding its way straight to their bedroom—a delicious trail that seemed designed to lure a certain someone out of her slumber.

And sure enough, the peaceful stillness of the room was interrupted by the soft creak of the door. It opened with a slight protest, the sound faint but enough to signal the arrival of its most unpredictable resident. A figure appeared in the doorway, looking like she’d just been pulled from the tangled depths of sleep—Rainbow Dash, her body still wrapped in the warmth of the night’s slumber.

She stood there, half-awake, almost entirely unbothered by the fact that she was in little more than a sports bra and a pair of well-worn shorts. The top hugged her defined abs, and the way her muscles subtly flexed as she shifted her stance spoke volumes about the athleticism beneath her carefree exterior. Her shorts sat low on her hips, doing little to hide the work she’d put into her legs, calves taut and strong from years of training. Her hair was a chaotic masterpiece—a messy, shaggy wolfcut that looked like it had battled the pillow all night long.

With a lazy rub of her eyes, Rainbow Dash blinked a few times, trying to bring her surroundings into focus. The world seemed to blur around her as she squinted, still half-dreaming, not fully aware of how adorable the sight of her sleepy, disheveled self really was.

“Morning, babe," Rainbow mumbled in her usual low, raspy voice, thick with sleep. Her words were soft, like they were still drifting in the warm depths of a dream, the edges of her consciousness not quite fully sharp.

“Mornin’, sugar,” Applejack replied, her voice rich with warmth and affection. Her hands moved with purpose, pulling the apple pie from the oven with careful precision, savoring the final moments of the warm, cinnamon-scented air that filled the room. She set the pie on the counter with a satisfied smile, the golden crust gleaming in the morning light.

Rainbow’s eyes immediately lit up at the sweet, tempting scent. The haze of sleep evaporated almost instantly, replaced by a hungry awareness. "Smells freakin' amazing," she muttered, her voice now awake, sharp, and alive with the prospect of the pie. She sauntered over to the counter, her steps casual but purposeful. Her gaze locked on the pie with an intensity that felt more like admiration than simple hunger.

Applejack watched her for a moment, noticing the way Rainbow’s eyes lingered on the pie—there was a certain hunger in them, but it wasn’t just for food. It was the same look she gave when she was eager for something more than just a bite. Rainbow leaned in, her gaze moving over the pie like it was a prize, and Applejack couldn’t help but grin. This wasn’t just about a homemade treat; it was about the way they shared these small, quiet moments, the unspoken connection between them that made even the simplest things feel significant. It was a dance of their own—a slow, effortless rhythm that only they understood.

Applejack wiped her hands on a towel and smirked, noticing the way Rainbow’s eyes lingered on the pie. "You lookin' to steal a slice, or are you just gonna stare at it all day?" she teased, her voice playful, the challenge light but sincere.

Rainbow grinned, flashing a quick, mischievous look at her. "I’m pretty sure I could just devour the whole thing right now, but I’ll let you be the hero today. Gotta keep you in the kitchen," she teased back, her tone flirtatious, her wink only adding to the playful tension in the air.

Applejack chuckled, shaking her head at the dramatic flair Dash brought to everything. "Well, glad you like it. Thought I’d switch it up a bit," she said with a grin, feeling the affection between them, easy and comfortable. She wasn’t just proud of the pie—she was proud of the life they were building together, little moments like these blending together into something so much bigger. “Couldn’t let you live off pancakes forever."

Rainbow rolled her eyes, her grin wide and mischievous. "Fuck yeah! Something other than pancakes! Man, you’re a godsend, AJ," she said with dramatic enthusiasm, diving into the pie with abandon, her laughter softening the edges of the moment as she savored the new flavor with pure bliss. “This? This is perfect. Seriously, you outdid yourself today."

Applejack couldn’t help but chuckle, her heart light as she watched Rainbow enjoy the pie.

‘Never knew that it could mean so much.’

Applejack couldn’t help but chuckle, her heart light as she watched Rainbow enjoy the pie. Her heart pounds fluttered at the words. She hadn’t realized how much it would mean to her, how much it would impact her to hear Rainbow genuinely appreciate something as simple as her cooking. Rainbow’s compliment, so effortless yet so sincere, made Applejack’s chest tighten in the best way possible.

She’d never realized how deeply it would hit her—this shared moment of warmth, of recognition, the feeling of being seen and valued, not for anything grand but for something as simple as the meal she’d prepared with love. It was as if Rainbow had reached right into her heart with that one small, casual praise.

And in that moment, Applejack realized,

It wasn’t just the pie, it wasn’t just the meal that made her happy—it was everything that came with it, these small moments, shared with the person she loved, that made every morning feel like the best one yet. "Well, I’m glad you like it," she said, eyes twinkling with affection.

——-

Rainbow set her fork down, her eyes locking with Applejack’s. A mischievous glint danced in her gaze, and Applejack, always perceptive, raised an eyebrow, giving her a sharp stare, like what-the-hell-are-you-planning or what-are-you-up-to-now? There was a hint of annoyance mixed in with her curiosity.

Rainbow leaned in just a little closer, her voice lowering into that teasing, familiar tone Applejack adored. “You know, Apples,” she said with a playful smirk,

“you’ve got a way of making the simplest things feel special. I could eat anything you make, and it’d taste like a damn gourmet meal—the only one who could make scrambled eggs feel like a five-star meal. Hell, you could serve me anything, and I’d be into it... as long as it’s from you.”

Applejack’s mixed of frustration was now replaced by a pigmented blush she had failed to cover, the words hitting her like a bolt of lightning, it was like a sharp breath of wind that caught her off guard, and for a split second, she couldn’t help but falter. A depth to it that made Applejack’s chest tighten, a strange mix of warmth and vulnerability that made her smile drop just for a second.

She cleared her throat, forcing herself to recover, but the teasing grin on Rainbow’s face lingered in the back of her mind. “Guess you’re just that good, huh?” Rainbow’s voice carried that cocky edge, but there was something in her eyes that made her feel like she was staring straight into something more than just words.

Applejack’s eyes widened slightly at the unexpected compliment, and she couldn’t help but let out a soft laugh, her cheeks flushing just a bit. "Is that so?" she drawled, her voice taking on that playful, teasing edge. "So you'd eat anything I cooked, huh? Even if it was burnt to a crisp?"

Rainbow smirked, her eyes never leaving Applejack’s, clearly enjoying the banter. “Well if it was burnt, I'd call it ‘charmingly rustic,’” she teased, leaning in even closer, her voice thick with affection.

Applejack chuckled, repeating the words with a smirk, “Charmingly rustic?”

Rainbow’s grin widened, and she shrugged nonchalantly. “Hey, shut up asshole,” she shot back. “But seriously, it’s not about the food. It’s the fact that you made it. That’s what makes it special.”

Applejack shifted in her seat, a small blush creeping onto her cheeks as she glanced sideways at Rainbow. Her tone was still playful, but there was a softness to it. “I reckon y’all gonna be hella sappy today, huh?”

Rainbow’s grin widened even further as she leaned in a little closer, her breath warm against Applejack’s ear, sending a shiver down her spine. "Hey! It’s your fault for being too fucking irresistible and hot. Makes me all sappy," she teased, her voice dripping with that confident drawl Applejack adored. “Can’t help it, AJ. You just make me wanna do cheesy stuff like this.”

Applejack raised an eyebrow, a mischievous smirk curling at the corners of her lips. “Is that so? Well, don’t go gettin' all lovey-dovey on me now. What’s next? Gonna serenade me with some sappy shit love song?”

Rainbow leaned back with a playful smirk, her elbows resting on the table as she adopted that competitive, cocky edge Applejack knew so well. “Well, good thing you’ve got a girlfriend with a superior guitar playing skills and off-the-charts-awesome singing voice,” she said proudly. “But I gotta warn you—I'd do more than serenade you if you keep lookin' at me like that.”

Applejack rolled her eyes, but her smile couldn’t be contained. “Well, ain’t that a fine pickle,” she said, amusement lacing her voice. “Guess I’ll just have to keep my distance if I don’t want you gettin' all mushy on me.”

Rainbow leaned forward, her expression suddenly serious, and that familiar intensity sparkled in her eyes. “Oh, I wouldn’t count on it,” she said with a cocky grin. “You’re stuck with me now. And I gotta say, I’m really startin’ to like this whole ‘sappy’ shit. Kinda suits me, dontcha think?”

Applejack chuckled softly, shaking her head. “Suits ya? What happened to the daring, untouchable, Rainbow Dash? Gonna start gettin’ all sentimental and squishy on me, are ya?” she teased, a playful challenge in her voice, though she could feel the soft edge of affection in her words.

Rainbow leaned in closer, her voice dropping low and smooth as she shot Applejack a wink. “It’s taken, only for you, babe,” she teased, her tone light but there was a truth to it that made Applejack’s heart skip. “And maybe, I’ll make you like it, leaving you wanting more.”

‘Taken, only for you’—those words echoed in Applejack’s mind, repeating like an old favorite song, the kind you hear over and over, long after it’s ended. It was a melody that wrapped itself around her heart, leaving her with a sweet kind of ache that was hard to ignore. Something about Rainbow’s response had a deeper pull to it. The way she said it, the way she owned it—it was both playful and completely sincere. It stung in the best way, like a sweet ache she couldn’t quite shake, the kind of feeling that hung around long after it was said.

Even with the teasing smirk on her face, those words played in the background of her thoughts, lingering longer than they should have.

“Is that so?” Applejack replied, her voice playful but her eyes betraying the shift of emotions. “Well, reckon I’ll just have to keep an eye on you and see how far you’re willin' to go with all this cheesy nonsense.” The smirk never left her face, but inside, she felt something new stir—something tender, something real.

Rainbow shrugged nonchalantly, but there was a glint in her eyes that made Applejack’s heart skip a beat. “Bring it on, Apple-smack. I can out-sappy you any day.”

Applejack let out a soft laugh, rolling her eyes in mock exasperation. “We’ll see about that, you sap.”

Rainbow’s lips curled into a matching grin. “Oh You’re so on, AJ,” she said, voice thick with both challenge and affection. “But for now…” She leaned forward, brushing a stray lock of hair from Applejack’s face with the kind of tenderness that made Applejack’s heart flutter.

“I’m gonna spoil you just a little more yeah?Anniversary rules, remember?”

Applejack leaned back, still smiling, but feeling a flutter in her chest. “Yeah, yeah, guess I’ll let you spoil me,” she replied, her voice soft, yet laced with teasing. “But don’t think I’m gonna let you off the hook for bein’ all cliché every day. I’ll keep you on your toes, Dash.”

‘You’re the fear, i don’t care.’

The air in the room shifted, almost imperceptibly at first, but Applejack could feel it—the way the space between them seemed to shrink, thickening with something unspoken. The sunlight, filtering softly through the kitchen window, suddenly felt warmer, as if the entire room was holding its breath, waiting, waiting patiently for something she kept remaining untold

The fear she once held—fear of loving Rainbow too much, fear of driving her away by showing just how deeply she cared—had melted away over the years. It wasn’t an abusive fear, but the kind that made her hold back, wondering if her love might become too much.

The weight of it pressed down on her chest like a thousand pounds. She loved one so much it hurt, more than she could ever articulate, and yet—sometimes she feared that love would be the very thing that drove them apart. It wasn’t just about their relationship, or the future they might build—it was about the very thing they were together. The bond they shared, so deep, so intricate, that it often felt too delicate to handle

It was suffocating.

But as she sat there, watching Rainbow savor her apple pie, the worry felt distant, like a fading echo. Maybe this was what it was supposed to feel like—imperfect, but real. With Rainbow by her side, with every laugh and every smile, the fear that had once weighed her down was no longer suffocating,like a storm that finally passed, leaving the air clear and the ground steady beneath her. Rainbow wasn’t going anywhere. And for the first time, she realized it wasn’t about holding back or fearing the fall—it was about letting herself feel everything, let the love, the moment—let it be enough, without the dread of it falling apart.

Rainbow wouldn’t run from her.

She hadn't realized how tightly she'd been holding her emotions until the words left her mouth, a small crack in her armor she hadn't planned on exposing. And then, before she even realized it, the words slipped out of her mouth. The confession she hadn’t even realized she’d been holding onto, a crack in her armor, a vulnerability she couldn’t hide any longer. The fear, the worry, it was all out there now. The truth, raw and untamed.

Applejack’s voice was soft, but there was a noticeable tremble in it—vulnerable, something she rarely let slip. She traced the rim of her plate, her fingers fidgeting as she spoke. "You know," she began, her tone quiet but steady, "I used to worry… it’s like, you’re the fear, fear that if I loved ya too hard, if I let myself fall too deep, it’d scare you off." Her eyes met Rainbow’s, steady but full of that unspoken history. "I thought maybe I’d push you away, that I’d ruin what we had somehow."

The silence that followed wasn’t heavy or uncomfortable—it was more like the air clearing after a storm, the kind of silence that feels like everything is right where it should be.

Rainbow set her fork down with a deliberate clink, her gaze softening but still playful, the corners of her mouth twitching upward. She leaned forward slightly, her voice dropping to a low, smoky tone, her eyes locked onto Applejack’s. “Come on, AJ,” she murmured, her words heavy with meaning.

“You could never love me too much. You’re the gravity that keeps me grounded, and if you pull me closer, I’m not gonna run. Hell, I’d want more—more of you, more of us. I’d chase it down until I couldn’t breathe anymore.” Her lips curled into a sly grin. “You hear me?”

Her words were deeper than expected, layered with a vulnerability masked by her usual playful cockiness, and they sent a spark of warmth through Applejack’s chest, making her heart race a little faster.

Applejack let herself lean into it, a soft chuckle escaping her lips. "Heard ya, loud and clear, darling," she teased, crossing her arms with a kind yet flattering smirk.

Rainbow’s teased, leaning forward. But then her voice softened, the teasing turning sincere. “But for real, AJ, I wouldn’t change a thing. You make me feel like I’m flying—higher than any stunt or flip.”

She leaned in just a little more, her voice lowering to an almost whisper, “It’s like... I don’t even need the sky to feel like I’m flying.”

Applejack’s breath hitched slightly at that, the words sinking deep. Her heart fluttered, warmth spreading through her chest, but she wasn’t going to let herself get swept away. She raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into an even more teasing smile. “Well, lucky for you,” she said, her voice low and challenging, “you’ve got me to keep you flying. Guess you don’t need the sky at all now.”

Rainbow’s grin widened, her gaze locking with Applejack’s, a playful intensity in her eyes. She leaned in again, her voice soft, but with that familiar, mischievous spark. “All I need? A plate of your pie... and a certain Apple Family girl who knows how to keep me grounded.”

Applejack’s eyes sparkled with mischief as she leaned in closer, her heart racing. “Well, looks like you're in luck, because you’ve got both right here.” She gave a wink, making sure Rainbow knew she was more than ready for whatever came next.

"Aw, shucks, now you got me all cheesy n’ cliché, ya darn tuttin’,” Applejack said with a sheepish grin, her voice dripping with affection and playful surrender.

Rainbow chuckled, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she leaned back, her smirk never wavering. “Well, if you can’t handle the cheese, Applejack,” she teased, her voice laced with a playful edge, “you might just have to live with me being all corny. But I’ll make it worth your while, cowgirl.”

Applejack’s heart fluttered, and with a roll of her eyes and a soft laugh, she leaned back in her seat, feeling that familiar warmth spread through her chest. “I reckon I can handle it,” she said, her tone playful but soft, “as long as it’s you I’m dealin’ with.”

The fear? Gone. She didn’t need it anymore, didn’t have to care about it, at least not now. Because in this moment, everything felt perfect. Not in some grand, flawless way, but in the way that truly mattered—raw, honest, and full of love.

With Rainbow by her side, it felt like the worst downfall could turn into a hella wild ride. One minute they’d share something deep and meaningful, and the next, they’d be caught up in that playful, competitive teasing. Rainbow’s cocky confidence was more than Applejack could handle sometimes, but it was the exact kind of challenge she’d come to love.

She had never felt so high. And for the first time, she didn’t fear the fall.