Long Live

This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things

💎Rarity💎

I take a deep breath as I adjust the last details of the dresses on my models. The organization of the fashion show has provided each participant with a tent in the square, behind the stage that has already been set up. I'm not going to lie, mine was a mess! Clothes strewn everywhere, fabrics, threads and buttons occupying every available surface, and boxes of recyclable materials piled up in the corners. Twilight and Fluttershy were around me, helping with one of the dresses.

- It looks amazing, Rarity - Twilight says, smiling as she attaches a delicate brooch to the dress of one of the mannequins - These color combinations are genius.

I agree with a grateful smile. Fluttershy adjusts the hem of a skirt next to her.

- You've perfectly captured the essence of the walk in the park - she says in her soft voice - I'm so glad I could help you.

- Thank you, darling! You're the best friends anyone could ever have!

Out of the corner of my eye, I see Rainbow throw herself exhausted onto one of the benches - I can't stand the sight of shoes anymore! Why did you leave me in charge of them?

- Because you're late - I roll my eyes, turning towards her - Now, enough complaining! We still have a lot to do today!

The other girls laughed at Rainbow's grumbles, except for Applejack, who was standing further away adjusting the necklaces on a mannequin. I swallowed as I noticed this. After all, I hadn't talked to her yet.

I finish the final adjustments with Twilight and Pinkie appears at the dressing room door with an excited smile. She had left a while ago to find somewhere for us to eat.

- Girls, you won't believe it! I found an amazing churro store across the street. Let's go?

Rainbow jumps off the sofa excitedly - Finally, good news! Let's go!

Fluttershy and Twilight rolled their eyes and smiled at her, the two of them also approached Pinkie, ready to eat, apparently. I glance nervously at the clothes already assembled on the mannequins.

- Oh, that's all right... Do you think everything is perfect yet?

Fluttershy puts her hand on my shoulder - It's more-than-perfect, Rarity. These pieces are a work of art!

- Yes, and a little snack will do you good - Twilight smiles at me - Then we'll come back here to take the mannequins to the stage.

Pinkie comes skipping up to me - The judges are going to LOVE these clothes! No doubt about it!

- Well, thank you, girls! - I say, feeling my heart warm. I'm always grateful to have you around.

I join the girls on their way out of the tent, stopping when I see Applejack. The blonde with the green eyes was a little way back, still concentrating on the last details of the models.

I approach her with a shy smile, noticing that the others have already left, great, finally alone with Applejack.

- Applejack, can we talk for a moment?

Ah... Of course, Rarity... Now?

- Yes, now - I look straight at her face, but she looks away - Applejack, I feel I may have made you uncomfortable after my presentation. I didn't mean to...

Applejack sighed softly, scratching the back of her head - Rarity, don't worry about it. I understood what you meant with the song. It was beautiful, really.

- Really? - I ask, moving closer. As I speak, I feel a lump forming in my throat. - So... Why have you been avoiding me? Did I... did I spoil things? Between us?