Secrets. Jacklyn had them. This one, seemingly so simple, changed her life forever. Almost, at times, Jacklyn felt as though she was choking on it. It was suffocating her, slowly killing her. If anyone in her family knew, her life would be over.

Jacklyn wandered downstairs to the family room, cautiously checking that everyone was asleep. She took a seat at the computer and logged on, hoping it humming to life wouldn't awaken anybody. After sighing in relief, she opened up her browser and went to a search engine.

Gulping, Jacklyn typed. Each letter pierced her, driving her insane. She pressed the search button, and was quickly flooded by results. As she clicked on a link, she could feel her palms beginning to sweat. Jacklyn questioned if her family would find out. The computer was shared with everyone, even her grandmother, and there was a possibility.

The webpage loaded, and Jacklyn read through it. "The place for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people to communicate. Talk to other LGBT people and share your feelings." She exhaled, and clicked the sign-up button.

Jacklyn continued to look around the website after her sign-up was complete. Her username was "applejack," since her family owned an apple orchard and her name was Jacklyn. She discovered there were many other members, and was awaiting one to log on and begin chatting.

Her wishes came true when a member under the name of "rainbowdash" logged on. Jacklyn was happy, and typed a quick hello to the member.

applejack: Hi

rainbowdash: Hi there, I'm Dana, but you can call me Dash. Or, even better, Rainbow Dash.

applejack: Rainbow? Seriously, how stereotypical can you be?...

rainbowdash: Well, I also have rainbow hair. How's that for stereotypical? XD

Jacklyn giggled under her breath. She was enjoying talking with Rainbow Dash, and it was a nice break from the reality of her life.

rainbowdash: Does the stereotypical girl get to hear anything about you?

applejack: XD My name's Jacklyn, and my family owns an apple orchard.

rainbowdash: Nice to meet you Jacklyn. :) I love track and someday I'm gonna be famous.

applejack: Cool. Just wondering, how old are you? I'm 17.

rainbowdash: Same here. My parents hate my hair, and they hate the fact that I'm bi, but honestly I don't care. XD

applejack: I haven't told anyone that I'm a lesbian, I seriously have no clue how they would take it...

rainbowdash: Well, now you've told me. :)

After reading Rainbow Dash's reply, Jacklyn couldn't help but smile. She felt as if she lifted a huge weight off her shoulders. Like she wasn't trapped in this secret.

rainbowdash: Do I get a picture of you? You sound kinda cute... :)

applejack: Sure, if you want one. Just a sec, let me take it real quick...

rainbowdash: Okay, I have a feeling you're worth waiting for. :)

Jacklyn blushed as she adjusted her webcam and smiled, capturing a photo. Reviewing it, Jacklyn smiled. Her long light blonde hair, pulled back in a ponytail as always, was slightly messy but still presentable. Although she hated how much of a stereotypical southerner it made her look, Jacklyn kept her chestnut brown cowboy hat on. She saved the picture and sent it to Rainbow Dash, hoping she made a good first impression.