About nine months into pregnancy...
Deep in sleep, Fluttershy woke up from something warm and fuzzy hugging her back. She murmured something incoherent and shifted more on her side. It wasn't until a minute later when a hoof went over her back and slowly rubbed against her chest that she recognized what is was behind her. Rather, it was a matter of who it was behind her. Of course, it was Rainbow Dash whose chest was pressed up against Fluttershy's back.
Fluttershy sighed and rested her hoof on Rainbow Dash's before muttering her name.
"Well, good morning, beautiful," the bold pegasus whispered from behind.
Another sigh escaped the muzzle of the timid pony as Rainbow Dash continued to lightly massage her soft underside. Even though it was unusual that Rainbow Dash was trying to her wake up rather than letting her get her sleep, this certainly was no rude awakening. The feeling of having the strong athlete snuggled up against her back was too good to make Fluttershy question why she disturbed her sleep.
"Good morning," Fluttershy whispered back with a long yawn.
Rainbow Dash cuddled up even closer and whispered in the ear of her lover, "Happy anniversary, Fluttershy."
Right then did Fluttershy's eyes open wider as she suddenly realized that today was that special day she had been waiting for. After all, she had spent about two weeks hiding something from Rainbow Dash until this very day came. With some help, she rolled over onto her other side she she could face her beloved. Her hooves wrapped around the cyan pegasus as she let the upper part of her body make close contact with her.
Making sure not to apply too much force to Fluttershy's lower body due to the large bulge, Rainbow Dash hugged back with equal passion. They both relished in the relief and comfort that this embrace brought to them despite that it couldn't really be as intimate as they wanted it to be. When it did end, Rainbow Dash leaned in for a quick kiss that was eagerly returned.
After Fluttershy parted her lips, she rested her head down on a pillow to look at Rainbow Dash's face. "Oh, happy anniversary, Rainbow!" she said in her giddy voice.
Rainbow Dash reached over with a hoof and ran it through Fluttershy's silky mane. "Excited for today?" she asked with a wide grin on her muzzle.
"Of course! I can't wait to spend the whole day with you... just doing all sorts of romantic things... and having a nice time together," Fluttershy replied with a little smile while the cyan pegasus caressed her cheek.
"Yup!" Rainbow Dash quickly agreed. "But, do you think that you could get up now? I kinda worked my flank off making breakfast for us," she added.
"Aw, you didn't have to do that," Fluttershy cooed. "Well, I suppose I can then. I am feeling a little hungry," she replied and slowly pulled herself up.
With some help from her loving spouse, Fluttershy climbed off their bed and stretched out with a cute, long yawn. Although she had originally planned to surprise Rainbow Dash very soon after they woke up, she decided that it could wait a little while longer. Since breakfast was supposedly already fixed, it seemed much better to wait until after. Still, it didn't change the fact that she was so eager to see Rainbow Dash's reaction when she receives her special gift.
While Fluttershy was preoccupied with her thinking, she didn't notice that Rainbow Dash was going through their closet for something.
"Wait... just one minute," Rainbow Dash interrupted her thoughts. "I've got something for you."
Fluttershy turned around to see the bold pegasus pull out a pink ball cap from the closet. The first that caught attention was the alluring color. After all, pink was one of her favorite colors and not to mention, she always liked how Rainbow Dash looked wearing her own ball cap. This one however, had a more feminine design to it.
"Here, this is for you, Fluttershy," Rainbow Dash stated as she offered the hat. "It's just a little anniversary gift that I thought you would like to wear."
Fluttershy's eyes widened in gratitude. "Awww... that's very thoughtful of you. Could you um... put it on?" she commented and leaned down on her front hooves.
"Of course!" Rainbow Dash replied. She gently placed the pink ball cap on top of the timid mare's head and felt around it to make it fit snugly on her head. "I have to say.." she said as she put on a thoughtful look. "It looks pretty good on you."
"Thank you so much, Rainbow!" Fluttershy thanked her with a quick hug.
Blushing a little, Rainbow Dash sat and awkwardly scratched the back of her head. "Heh, it's just a hat, Fluttershy," she dismissed it.
"Well, it's the meaning behind it that makes it such a precious gift," Fluttershy tried to explain.
Rainbow Dash nodded in agreement at the honest words that came from the heart of her lover. However, she had went through a lot of work to make breakfast and wanted it be eaten as soon as possible after it was made. "I get what you mean. I guess anything could be priceless depending on that sort of thing." she pointed out. "But, can we eat now?"
Fluttershy's stomach made an odd gurgling noise that only added to her agreement. "I suppose so!" she giggled.
The smell of a sumptuous meal had filled the first floor with an alluring aroma. Fluttershy found her mouth watering before she even reached the bottom of the stairs. Her eyes widened at the sight of a set up dinner table. Next to each plate of hash browns, pancakes, toast, and even hay bacon; was a tall glass of orange juice. The sight was almost enough to make Fluttershy lose all care for lady-like behaviors and dig in.
Her hunger was duly noted by Rainbow Dash who found some amusement out of it. "Heh, you look like a hungry timber wolf there," she joked while she followed behind.
Fluttershy giggled at her teasing before sitting herself down at the table. "It was very sweet of you to do this, Rainbow," she commented as she looked down at her appetizing meal.
"Well, you're very welcome," Rainbow Dash said while she made her way to other side of the table to sit down. "I hope you're not gonna wait on me to dig in," she pointed out as she started eating her hay bacon.
Upon hearing and seeing the other mare's satisfaction of her own cooking, Fluttershy decided to no waste no more time and feed her hungry tummy. It didn't take long for her to see why Rainbow Dash was so happy with her cooking. Despite that she actually did pretty decent with her cooking, she wasn't always content with everything that she made. It was usually that she only compared her cooking to Fluttershy's and saw that she could never be as good as her.
"The hash browns are so good!" Fluttershy complimented as she took in another mouthful.
Rainbow Dash stopped munching on her toast for a minute. "Yeah, Applejack taught me this really awesome recipe the other day," she explained.
"That was very nice of her," Fluttershy commented before a long sip of the cold, refreshing orange juice.
She watched the other pegasus eat while it soon became unusually quiet at the table. The only sounds were of them eating. It had been only a short time since they started eating and already they were about half done. It wasn't an unwelcome silence as the couple took it to simply give each other lovey dovey looks and giggle at the other.
After about five minutes, Fluttershy decided to speak up. "So, um... what do you have in mind that we'll do today?" she innocently asked.
"Well..." Rainbow Dash began, "We could for a picnic, I guess we can go on walk too, and um... heh... well, actually, I was just gonna wait until after the picnic so we can decide what to do," she said in an uneasy voice.
Unexpectedly, Fluttershy looked very unhappy and uncomfortable at the idea of spending time outside doing things. "W-what? We're going outside for this?" she nervously squeaked.
"Do you really think that we're going to spend it cooped up here?" Rainbow Dash snapped back, suddenly irritated at the mare she gave loving glances at.
"I can't go outside like this!" Fluttershy motioned to herself.
Rainbow Dash had gotten out of her seat and was at her side. "C'mon, you need to stop saying that. There's nothing wrong with the way you look. You're just pregnant and everypony understands that," she tried to calm the nervous wreck.
Fluttershy shook her head. "That's the point! I don't like it when ponies look at me! I stick out like a sore hoof to every pony in town!" she complained.
"Who cares what they think? Just ignore them. It's that easy!" Rainbow Dash retorted.
The nervous mare just couldn't stand her argument. She got out of her chair and turned her back on the pony she loved. "Yeah, well... what if you were the one pregnant? How would you like to have this giant tummy get in the way when you're trying to sleep, sitting down, or even getting intimate with the pony you love? Would you like everypony to look at you because your glands are so swollen? Or, what about having to go pee every ten minutes? Would you even put up with it?" she vented, her face hidden from the other pegasus.
Taken aback, Rainbow Dash could only stutter. "I-I guess... I wouldn't like that. I-I'm sorry... o-okay?" she attempted to apologize.
Fluttershy could only sigh and lower her head down, unhappy that she already had started something between them on their anniversary. Though, she was still firm on not going out into town but she was conflicted by several different feelings. After a minute of silence, she felt Rainbow Dash hoof make it's way around her shoulder. She made no resistance, however no pony was talking at this point.
Finally, she gave in by turning towards the other mare and hugging her very lightly. "I'm sorry, Rainbow," she cried into the prismatic mane.
"Shh," Rainbow Dash cooed as she hugged back the distraught pony. "It's okay. Just calm down. It's not your fault." she tried to cool the upset pony down.
"No! I-" Fluttershy tried to say but was cut off.
Rainbow Dash held a hoof over Fluttershy's muzzle. "No, you're right. I wouldn't feel so great if I was in your place," she explained and paused for a minute. "You have every right to call me out on that but you didn't understand what I meant."
To this, Fluttershy let out a curious "Huh?" before she was politely hushed.
"I never said anything about going into town and being around large crowds of ponies. When I said that we could have a picnic, walk, and do some other stuff; I was talking about doing it someplace where it would just be us," Rainbow Dash elaborated and moved the hoof over Fluttershy's muzzle towards her cheek to caress it.
Again, Fluttershy tried to apologize but Rainbow Dash stopped her and broke the hug. She backed away so she could see the face of the other mare and attacked her muzzle with a barrage of sweet little kisses. All of the strange feelings that were plaguing Fluttershy had melted away and she found herself enjoying all the loving pecks on her face.
Once Rainbow Dash stopped, Fluttershy took it upon herself to make the next move by slightly tilting her head and moving in to capture her lips in a passionate kiss. Almost right away was it met with equal passion and with some surprise by the cyan pegasus. Everything around them disappeared as there was nothing else that mattered in the world at the moment. While they made out with each other, neither of them noticed the angry bunny who was tapping his foot besides them.
With her hoof still caressing Fluttershy's cheek, Rainbow Dash decided to add more passion to the kiss and gently poked the creamy mare's bottom lip with her tongue. It was eagerly granted access to the other mare's mouth as she found herself in a familiar territory. She felt something slip past her tongue and into her own mouth as well.
They could taste their recent breakfast in the other's mouth as their tongues intertwined. Rainbow Dash felt slightly turned on as she slowly was losing herself in this intimate kiss. Despite that she promised they wouldn't go all the way, it was starting to feel hard to resist certain urges. It wasn't until a certain bunny interrupted their make-up make-out session that it was finally ended.
"Wow..." Rainbow Dash trailed off, trying to catch her breath. "That must have been one of the most awesome times we've made out," she declared.
Fluttershy, clearly out breath, looked at the little bunny who had kicked her foreleg. "Oh my... it was certainly was one of the best kisses." she agreed and examined her pet. "Well... it looks like my friend here is hungry. Rainbow Dash, did you feed the animals yet?" she asked.
Rainbow Dash's ears drooped down as she remembered. "Shoot, I forgot to," she complained.
"It's okay," Fluttershy reassured her before moving to the front door. "Could you just clean up the table for me?" she asked while she stood in the doorway.
"Of course," Rainbow Dash obediently answered.
Upon hearing her wife's cheerful answer, Fluttershy slipped outside to tend to her critters. At least she still felt comfortable in the land around their cottage. While she started to feed her animal friends, Rainbow Dash began to move dirty dishes from the table to their kitchen sink.
There was still a considerable amount of food left, so she decided to put away most of the leftovers in their fridge. After a few rounds of carrying plates, she came back with a rag in her mouth and dropped it on the table. Even though several months ago she knew very little about simple cleaning, she had learned from the mare who lived with her. After all, it was embarrassing to admit that she had somepony tidy up her cloud house for her and that she lacked such basic skills.
After finishing her household chores, Rainbow Dash went back into the kitchen to prepare some sandwiches for an upcoming picnic. Of course, it was too early but she figured it would be better to be ahead of schedule while she waited for Fluttershy to finish feeding the animals. Before she could begin to pull out ingredients, it turned out that Fluttershy was done with chores as well, as evidenced by the noise of the door closing.
"Rainbow?" she called out from the living room.
Deciding to stop what she was about to do, Rainbow Dash followed the voice out of the kitchen. "Hey, Fluttershy. What's up?" she nonchalantly asked.
"Could you go upstairs with me? I have to show you something," Fluttershy asked out of the blue.
Rainbow Dash tried to carefully examine her facial expression but got nothing out of it. "Sure, I guess," she gave in without an argument.
Fluttershy nodded and the lead way upstairs. In her current physical condition, it took a little extra effort to work her way up them but Rainbow Dash seemed to be able to hold her patience well. When they did reach the second floor of their cozy home, the timid pegasus wandered into the bedroom and reached out under the bed. She pulled out a saddlebag which one the bags on the side was tightly packed and picked it up with mouth.
"What is that?" Rainbow Dash asked with a curious look as she stood in front of their bed.
"I don't know..." Fluttershy teased with a poorly hidden smirk on her face. "Maybe you should come up here," she suggested, motioning to the bed.
She helped herself up on the bed and held the saddlebag close to her legs. It was her turn to give a surprise- one she knew would definitely make her lover's day. Rainbow Dash wasted no time to eagerly climb up on the bed as well and join her.
Clearing her throat a little, Fluttershy spoke up, "Okay..." she trailed off. "This is something for a very important pony in my life. In thanks for everything she has done for me during these difficult months, for making me feel like the luckiest mare in Equestria, and for gentle and tender with me all this time we've been together..." she paused and let a tear streak down her cheek. "This is for you, Rainbow Dash," she announced and pushed the bag away from herself.
"Heh, you didn't have to get me something," Rainbow Dash commented as she grabbed the bag.
Deciding to not wait, she opened up the bag and felt the contents with her hooves. Unexpectedly, it was a material that felt very different than what a dress would be made out of. In fact, it was like it was made out of a rubbery material instead. With a very intrigued look on her face, she pulled out it and examined it. The color of it was a solid blue, a shade darker than her own coat. Flipping it over, she found a silver, metal zipper. Almost immediately did her heart rate start jumping as she started to realize what this was that Fluttershy just gave her.
"No! Is t-this really?" Rainbow Dash stuttered as she stared back at the gift giver, wide eyed.
Fluttershy laid down on her side with a little smirk on her face. "Yes, it is what you think is. It's even insulated to keep you warm in the cold and it protects you from lightning," she answered.
Hugging it close to her chest, Rainbow Dash was the happiest mare alive. "You know that I've been dying to get a really decent flight suit!" she pointed out.
Smiling at the happiness she brought to her spouse, Fluttershy batted her eyes at her in a silly manner. "I knew that you'd love to have one of your own finally," she commented.
"Enough sappiness! Hug time!" Rainbow Dash declared as she rushed the other pegasus with open hooves.
"Ooof! Be careful, Rainbow," Fluttershy gently warned so she wouldn't be crushed.
Rainbow Dash did listen and forced herself to hug with a softer grip despite that she could barely contain her excitement and affection. "Thanks so much, Fluttershy!" she thanked her, with seriousness in her voice. "This is the best gift ever!" she proclaimed.
"You're very welcome," Fluttershy simply replied and returned the hug.
The couple continued to cuddle with each other, one them with a huge grin on her muzzle and the other still wearing a pink ball cap on her head. Both of which were very much enjoying this close contact and the sense of security it brought between them. When they did reluctantly pull away, Rainbow Dash smooched Fluttershy's forehead in gratitude for the awesome gift and rested her hoof on her yellow shoulder.
"Today is going to be the best day ever!" Rainbow Dash announced with a hoof up in the air.
After some more snuggling, they decided it was time to pack up for the picnic and think of ideas for other things to also do. While Rainbow Dash focused on preparing some tasty sandwiches and a salad to go along with, Fluttershy occupied herself with choosing a few refreshing drinks to go with their lunch. It was now the late morning but they still had plenty of time for a walk together before eating lunch.
They planned to walk on the same path that was used for the Running of the Leaves. Since nopony really walked there during the summer days, it was perfect for the two pegasi to enjoy each other's company in peace and privacy. It would also be good exercise for Fluttershy to keep up her good health. Though, it wasn't that great of a place to show off flying tricks and moves.
As Rainbow Dash finished packing a saddlebag full of food and drinks for the day ahead, she wondered if her gift even amounted to the one she had been given earlier. "Heh, are you still wearing it?" she asked Fluttershy, who had been helping her stuff the saddlebag full of things.
"Of course! I really like it, Rainbow," Fluttershy replied as she motioned to her new hat. "But... are you sure that you can handle all of that weight?" she asked with concern in her voice.
"Well... I am that awesome and strong... so, of course, I can! But really, I'm comfortable with wearing it," Rainbow Dash waved off her worries.
"Oh, okay then," Fluttershy said.
Rainbow Dash stretched out one more time before she nudged her partner and gestured to leave. Upon seeing her nod of approval, she lifted her left wing and let it settle on the shy mare's back. Leaving the cottage as a close couple, they waved goodbye to some of the animals that were standing along the way.
On the way there, Fluttershy looked a lot less uneasy than Rainbow Dash expected. To her, it must have just been a nervous breakdown earlier during breakfast. It made her feel bad though, to see her in such a vulnerable state. However, Rainbow Dash still had one more surprise for her, another that she'll appreciate so much. They passed by Applejack, who almost seemed to expect to bump into them on their way. Hellos were exchanged but Rainbow Dash gave a wink instead as if were some sort of secret signal.
Fluttershy noticed the strangeness in Rainbow Dash's gesture but shook it off. It didn't matter to her because she couldn't help but notice how nice it was outside. Either it was a coincidence or it was all set up by her lover whose wing was affectionately draped over her .
"Enjoying the awesome weather?" Rainbow Dash asked with a smirk as they left the outskirts of town.
"Yes, it's so nice out!" Fluttershy replied with a nuzzle.
"Yeah," Rainbow Dash agreed. "They had a storm planned for today but I convinced the big boss to move it for another day," she explained.
Smiling, Fluttershy nuzzled her cheek again. "Aw, you didn't have to go through that trouble," she cooed.
"C'mon, 'Shy... do you really think I'd let a storm ruin this day for us?" Rainbow Dash complained and stopped to look around. "Oh, shoot! I went the wrong way!"
Looking around and wondering what the bold pegasus meant, Fluttershy realized that they were headed right for the meadows. She had forgotten too that it was the path adjacent to the one that they had took. "Um.. well, that's okay. We could just walk to the meadows then. I don't mind," she squeaked.
Rainbow Dash stood with her and tried to make up her mind. "Okay," she gave in. "But, you have to watch these cool tricks that I learned," she added.
"You don't have to ask me for that. I would love to watch your awesome moves and your amazing tricks!," she affectionately nuzzled the mare again.
"Heh, well, thanks then. But really, it means a lot to me to have somepony watch and cheer me on," Rainbow Dash thanked in her most honest tone.
They walked for a good time past the vast field of grassland with flowers scattered all around. The smells of the flowers they walked past and the wonderful sight all around them only served to make their mood even better. Fluttershy stooped to grab a red flower in her mouth and was allowed to slide it in Rainbow Dash's mane. Even though she was a tomboyish pegasus, she mostly displayed her feminine side to Fluttershy only.
Fluttershy stopped Rainbow Dash once they reached a relatively soft area in the middle of the field where the grass was short. "Here's a good spot for us to set up," she claimed.
With a grunt, Rainbow Dash brought her wing back to her side and let the bag slide off to the ground with a slight thud. "Phew, I'm almost ready to eat again," she said as she wiped her face.
"Is that all you think about?" Fluttershy teased.
"Hey, there's nothing like the feeling of having a full tummy," Rainbow Dash argued before she turned her attention to the saddlebag.
With her mouth, she opened one side and pulled out their picnic blanket and the new, blue flight suit that she had been given. Fluttershy picked up the blanket and waved up in the air before letting it settle down. Rainbow Dash was more interested in getting her suit to see how well it fit her. It took some effort but she managed to squeeze her hooves in and the rest was a matter of fitting her upper body in.
"How'd you know this would fit me?" A bewildered Rainbow Dash asked as she zipped up her suit.
Fluttershy giggled and smirked. "Well, remember when I made you go to Rarity's to get your measurements done for a dress? Ever wonder why you never got it?" she asked.
Rainbow Dash laughed. "Aren't you a sneaky one?"
Fluttershy giggled and watched Rainbow Dash as she grabbed the picnic basket and began to unpack its contents. Sandwiches, apple juice, and two plastic containers of salad cluttered the area in front of her. It took some effort but they managed to sort everything out so they both had an even amount of food and drink.
Picking up a sandwich, Rainbow Dash chomped away at it until there was nothing left, surprising Fluttershy who giggled at the sight. Other than that, the only sounds were of the birds chirping, the cool breeze that soothed their skin, and the occasional munching and sipping sounds from the two pegasi.
Fluttershy was on her second sandwich when she found herself staring into Rainbow Dash's eyes, admiring her face and mane. A deep blush came over her lover's face as she noticed that Fluttershy was staring with that dreamy and lovey-dovey look.
"Uh," Rainbow Dash attempted to say but failed to find the words.
"Oh sorry. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable," Fluttershy apologized. "I just was admiring the way you looked," she explained with a little laugh. "But, you really are beautiful, Rainbow."
"Heh, thanks… but don't sweat it. You weren't making me uncomfortable. After all, I think you're one of the cutest mares in Equestria," Rainbow Dash flirted back, batting her eyes to playfully mimic her.
Catching onto the game, Fluttershy batted her eyes back. "Is that so? Well, I think you're one of the prettiest mares, even if you're so athletic, and… you have the most beautiful and vibrant feathers," she flirted.
Rainbow Dash took in the rest of her sandwich and grinned. "Yeah, look at you trying to flirt with the pony you married. You always were such a flatterer," she teased.
"Oh, but I mean every word," said a honest and loving Fluttershy.
"I know… I do too…" Rainbow Dash trailed off. Her gaze met with her spouse and then slowly moved to her bowl of which she tentatively tasted. Fluttershy mirrored her actions and began her salad too. A peaceful silence fell over them, letting the other sounds be heard once again.
Looks were exchanged but no more words were said. Instead, they continued to munch on their tasty, nutritious salads. Hearing the birds chirping in the background and feeling that cool breeze was all that was needed for a quiet moment. However, it was only a short time before the couple was already done with their delicious and refreshing lunch.
"So, are you ready to see some of my moves?" Rainbow Dash asked, no longer having an empty tummy.
"Of course! I would love to see them!"
"Alright," Rainbow Dash said with a laugh. "Now, let me put on a show for you!" she exclaimed, jumping into action.
She buffed out her chest in a heroic pose and gave her best signature grin to try to impress the already impressed Fluttershy. Without further ado, she took off to the skies and rounded up some clouds. Using her hooves, she expertly shaped them into a line of columns and set them apart from each other. Looking down, Rainbow Dash could see that Fluttershy's eyes were fixed on her with an excited look on her face.
Rainbow Dash flew a distance away from her obstacles before adjusting her position. With a powerful thrust of her wings, she sped up with force at the columns of clouds. Right as she approached the first pillar, she spread her wings out and used them to quickly dodge it. With that same technique, she weaved in and out of the line, avoiding contact with the clouds.
Fluttershy's voice couldn't be heard but the expression on her face was good enough for Rainbow Dash press on with her new routine. With an incredible confidence, she started to fly in a circle. This caused the grass and flowers around the creamy pegasus to thrash about wildly. Yet, Fluttershy remained calm and ignored that her part of her mane was flowing in the wind.
Pulling out of the small vortex of wind she was making, Rainbow Dash soared up and corkscrewed through the air before performing an elaborate series of twists and turns. Making her last move, she performed a series of flips and turns and then landed with a wild and heroic pose right in front of Fluttershy.
"So how was that for a little show?" Rainbow Dash asked as she grinned with pride.
Rising to her hooves, Fluttershy decided to answer with a soft hug. "It was amazing, Rainbow!" she squeaked through the hug. "You really do look good in that," she complimented her.
"Thanks! I bet it won't be long before I'm good enough for the Wonderbolts!" Rainbow Dash hoped.
Before Fluttershy could further compliment her, a foul odor started to emit from the pony she was currently hugging. "What is that smell?" she wondered out loud.
Suddenly embarrassed, Rainbow Dash pulled away from the other pegasus. "Heh… uhh yeah… I might be a little sweaty!" she sheepishly explained while awkwardly rubbing the back of her head.
"Well, maybe we should go back so you can shower off," Fluttershy suggested.
An idea popped into Rainbow Dash's head as she realized that Applejack must be already done with the favor she was tasked with. This could be the opportunity to show her last gift and surprise. "Yeah, why don't we head back?" she agreed.
The idea of going back so soon seemed a little silly to Rainbow Dash but she really was eager to give the last gift. The flight suit was comfortable to wear but she had been foolish to use when was a rather hot afternoon. Being so sweaty ended up making it uncomfortable, so she decided to pack it away in her saddlebag along with the rest of the picnic necessities.
As they walked back, she kept a little space between herself and Fluttershy in fear that she would get sweat on her and force her to take a shower too.
"So…" Rainbow Dash mused as they approached their cottage. "What if I told I had one more surprise waiting for you inside?" she asked with a sly grin.
"Another surprise?" Fluttershy asked, curiously tilting her head.
"Well, I kind of want to take a shower first. But, as soon as I'm done, I'll show you the last surprise that I got for you," Rainbow Dash explained as they stepped back into their cottage. "Just uhh… don't go upstairs yet," she added, letting the saddlebag fall off her back.
Fluttershy nodded her head to show that she could be trusted. "Of course, I promise not to go upstairs then," she agreed.
"Just wait a little while. I won't take long this time," Rainbow Dash bid her as she hurried into their bathroom.
Not wanting to waste any of her lover's time, Rainbow Dash hopped into the shower and immediately turned the water on cold. Sighs of relief escaped her muzzle as the cold water cooled off her body and washed the sweat away. It was the most blissful experience to feel her sore wings go numb with the refreshing water.
Without warning, the shower door was opened by Fluttershy. "Uh, Rainbow? Would you mind if I join too? I could use a shower too." she asked, shyly playing with her mane. "I mean, if you don't mind of course."
"Well, duh you can! There's room for one more," Rainbow Dash laughed.
Fluttershy blushed a little but stopped when she felt the water. "Could you also turn it down a bit?" she pleaded.
"Oh, yeah… heh, sorry," Rainbow Dash replied as she turned the dial with her mouth. "Come on in," she beckoned with goofy expression on her face.
As Fluttershy stepped in, she shivered at first from the contact of the water before getting the rest of her body in and closing the door. There was enough room for both ponies but not enough space for them to wash themselves. It would be much easier-and more romantic if they washed the other.
"Rainbow, would you mind if I do your mane?" Fluttershy asked as she reached up at the shelf of body soaps and shampoos.
Shaking her head, Rainbow Dash answered, "No, I would be cool with that. Actually, it would be a whole lot easier if you know… we washed each other."
Fluttershy blushed again but nodded nonetheless happy that she could share something that felt so special. With her hoof, she grabbed the watermelon scented shampoo that Rainbow Dash loved using on occasions like this. She squeezed some out on a hoof and took a quick sniff of it before using both hooves to spread it out through the chromatic mane of her lover.
Rainbow Dash closed her eyes and let Fluttershy do her work. It felt pretty good to have somepony washing her mane; even more considering who was doing it. In fact, she even was humming a sweet tune while she was doing it.
"Okay, Rainbow, I'm done," Fluttershy announced.
"Alright, now it's my turn," Rainbow Dash said as she opened her eyes and reached for Fluttershy's shampoo. "Close your eyes now," she warned.
Fluttershy did as she was told and shut her eyes closed. "Go ahead," she nodded.
Right after she spoke, she felt Rainbow Dash's hooves gently run through her long and silky mane. The sweet fragrance of peaches filled her nose with its pleasant aroma. It was almost like heaven for her, having her special somepony doing this for her.
"You can open your eyes now."
Fluttershy carefully and slowly opened her eyes, afraid that a drop of soap would trickle down into her eyes. "Thank you, Rainbow Dash. You did a great job," she humbly thanked her.
"No problem," Rainbow Dash replied and kissed her on the cheek.
Kissing back on the cyan cheek, Fluttershy got the idea to do something else for her lover. She put back the two bottles of shampoo and pulled out the body that they shared. Taking a generous amount on a hoof, she used her other to rub Rainbow Dash's wing to coax it to open. There wasn't a whole lot of room for a pegasus to completely spread out her wings, so Fluttershy had to make sure that she was in the middle.
With a delicate hoof, she ran her hoof over the underside of the right wing. Making sure to not to go the wrong way, she brushed with the feathers, cleaning them a little. Similar to preening, it was also to massage them but this was a little less sensual. Still, it was a deep romantic gesture.
Rainbow Dash grinned as she let herself get lost in the overwhelming senses. Her eyes closed, heightening her other senses and amplifying the sounds of the endless cooling waters that fell down upon them. The only thing that she could feel was the soothing water and the romantic massage being done on her wing.
As Fluttershy moved on to the other wing, Rainbow Dash found herself truly lost in a state of peace. Her mouth was left partially open, which started collecting several drops of water from the showerhead. It didn't end there with her wings because Fluttershy sought to get her all cleaned by quickly moving to her chest and her back to rid the last of the foul odors which lingered.
"Wow… that felt really good," Rainbow Dash complimented her.
Fluttershy giggled, "I'm glad that you liked it then."
"Uh huh," Rainbow Dash mumbled. "Now, let's get you finished so I can show you the last surprise, huh?"
Mirroring her spouse's actions, she grabbed the body soap and squeezed out some on her hooves before spreading it out on the creamy pegasus. However, she decided that it would better to preen her wings some other day rather than spending the time to carefully wash it. Her sensitive wings needed to be done right and Rainbow Dash just didn't have the patience for that today.
Still, she took the time to essentially massage the rest of Fluttershy's soft body. Soft moans and sighs escaped her muzzle from the expert hooves being used on her sore muscles and joints. Rainbow Dash's hooves trekked from her ears down to the bulge under her stomach.
It was tempting to make things steamy since it was their anniversary and that their bedroom love life had been put on hold for quite some time but Rainbow Dash managed to keep her promise. She wanted to share that special bond once again, not just out of lust but out of love and affection. Waiting for something like that took her a lot of patience and willpower especially on a day like this.
Rainbow Dash stopped after a few minutes and just let the cool water wash away the rest of the soap on their bodies. "I think you're clean enough now," she decided.
Turning off the shower, Fluttershy slide the door open and stepped out to get some towels. She offered one to Rainbow Dash and started drying herself off. It was a good thing that they had invested in getting a decently sized shower room like this because the space was well used.
"I think that you're really gonna like this surprise. After all, I had to get some help to move it in while we had some fun outside," Rainbow Dash said as she rubbed her legs with the towel.
"Just how big is this surprise?" A very curious Fluttershy asked.
Rainbow Dash laughed. "You'll see. C'mon, let's go upstairs," she urged her.
"Okay then," Fluttershy agreed.
With a grin on her muzzle, Rainbow Dash led the way to their bedroom. Even though their manes were still damp, she couldn't wait anymore to give the last gift. That is, not to mention that it would lead to the next thing that they would be doing on this romantic day. There wasn't a better time for this than now.
"Alright..." Rainbow Dash mused as they reached the bedroom, "Tell me what's so different about our room," she teased with a quick peck on the check.
Fluttershy took several glances around but failed to see anything different with the room. "I-I don't know. What do you mean, Rainbow?" she asked with a confused look.
Rainbow Dash smirked and pointed to the bed. "I dunno... maybe you should try the bed," she suggested.
"What?"
"Just lay on the bed and tell me if something feels different, okay?"
Unsure of what Rainbow Dash meant, Fluttershy decided to find out what she really meant. Approaching the bed with a curious look, she climbed on it and laid on her side. Almost immediately did she notice that something was off. Normally, she would feel a lump in the mattress when she tries to lay down into a comfortable spot on their bad. However, this felt nothing like the old, lumpy mattress she had owned for the longest time.
Rainbow Dash climbed onto the bed too and wrapped the pegasus from behind with her hooves. "So, I take it that you like the new mattress I got for us," she softly whispered in her ear.
"Oh, I love it!" Fluttershy replied as she felt around with a hoof. "It's so soft and comfortable."
"Mmhmm," Rainbow Dash agreed. "It's also perfect for two ponies to snuggle on," she added and lightly gripped Fluttershy's ear with her mouth.
Fluttershy giggled while her lover began to nibble her ear. "Stop, that tickles!" she laughed.
"I don't think so," Rainbow Dash teased.
The onslaught continued as the bold pegasus refused to stop toying with the ear between her wet lips. Hearing all the giggles was enough to amuse her to keep up with this silly affection. It came to an end though when Fluttershy loosened the grip the cyan hooves held on her. Taking action, she slowly turned herself around and kissed Rainbow Dash on the snout.
Rainbow Dash smiled from the gesture and leaned in close to her face for a quick kiss on the lips. As soon as their lips met, their hearts started to melt. It was only short and sweet but they pulled away to gaze into the other's eyes before coming together for a much more passionate kiss.
Heads tilting slightly in the opposite way, their lips met again. Applying more pressure, Rainbow Dash deepened the kiss. Using her hoof, she ran it through the other mare's mane despite that it wasn't completely dried. Fluttershy moaned through the kiss and used her hoof to gently caress her lover's cheek. It was enough to make Rainbow Dash feel turned on as she didn't even realize that she was snaking her other hoof over to Fluttershy's side.
Things started to get heated up when Fluttershy did the same thing with her hoof except that it rested even closer to her cutie mark. Before they realized it, their mouths had parted and their tongues went past each other. It seemed sudden but Rainbow Dash didn't even notice that things were escalating. The sensation felt so natural and so right that she lost herself with her special somepony.
Their breathing became uneven and Rainbow Dash too began to let out soft little sighs and moans through the passionate kiss. Her left wing rose up in excitement while the other felt uncomfortable since she was laying on her side. Without warning, they broke apart with Rainbow Dash letting out a more throaty moan.
There they were, panting and giving the other confused looks as realization hit them. It had been such a while since such intimacy occurred between them that they were suddenly moments before sharing that special bond with each other. The feeling was distantly familiar like the several other times after when their relationship got serious up to the point when they decided to hold off on the love making.
Rainbow Dash was unsure of what to say. She wanted that intimacy once again, to truly show Fluttershy her love and affection. After all, this was their special day together and it only felt right that this would happen. However, it could potentially cause the premature birth of their foal and that was what they had so carefully sought to prevent during her pregnancy.
"Aw, shoot... I didn't mean that to happen, Flutters," Rainbow Dash tried to apologize admist catching her breath. "I really thought I could back down when we get carried away... with these things."
Fluttershy shook her head sympathetically. "Oh no, it's not your fault anyway. Really, I-I d-don't blame you at all. I really would have wanted this... to share this with you... but I just can't do it. It's already been so long since I've been pregnant... and I"m afraid that something might happen," she explained and drooped her face down. "I'm sorry... but I really love you... but I just can't risk have it happen right in the middle of... it."
Unwilling to let her feel down on their anniversary, Rainbow Dash lifted Fluttershy's chin with her hoof so they could see eye-to-eye. "Hey, it's okay, anyway. I didn't really plan for this to happen in the first place. I know I sometimes comes across to you as impatient but I've done pretty well waiting for you... and... I guess I don't mind waiting a little longer," she cooed to the uncomfortable pegasus.
"So, you wouldn't mind just snuggling instead?" Fluttershy hoped.
"Of course! You know that I'm down for that," Rainbow Dash replied. "Besides, we can save this for another time... and make it really special... and romantic," she added.
Blushing, but yet happy with this decision, Fluttershy nodded her head and brought Rainbow Dash into a light hug. "Thank you for understanding, Rainbow... and thanks so much for the new mattress," she praised her.
"You're always welcome, Fluttershy," Rainbow Dash replied as she hugged back with a warming embrace.
With that said and done, the cuddling began with the two pegasi holding close to each other and their hooves massaging the other's back until they both slowly fell into a peaceful sleep.
Slowly, Fluttershy stirred on the bed, awakening from a much refreshing nap. Her eyes peered half open at her surroundings. Next to her was the pony she loved the most with her head resting on her chest and her left foreleg around and over on Fluttershy's right side. The faint sound of light snoring could be heard escaping Rainbow Dash's cyan muzzle.
A little smile formed on Fluttershy's face as she looked at the snoozing pony's content expression. There was something about her face that somehow made Fluttershy unable to suppress a giggle and just smile. Though, it wouldn't be the first that this happened. Many mornings and after-naps would start like this if she woke up before Rainbow Dash.
The giggling caused the snoozer to stir in her sleep and mumble incoherent words. This made Fluttershy stop to observe the waking of the sleepy creature. With a very gentle hoof, she stroked the chromatic mane of her life companion. Slowly but surely, Rainbow Dash's eyelids eased open to reveal her magenta coloured eyes looking back into Fluttershy's.
"Why, hello there," whispered a silly looking Fluttershy.
Rainbow Dash shifted her head slightly and settled it down again on the soft, fuzzy chest. Rather than saying something back, she let out a long but happy sigh of content as she nuzzled against Fluttershy. The affection was enough to melt her heart. Here they were, close and intimate, relishing in the comforting touch and feel of the other.
"I love you, Fluttershy… so much," Rainbow Dash breathed out.
"Love you too, Rainbow," Fluttershy replied.
Again, Rainbow Dash nuzzled against her. "You know, snuggling with you like this," she began and paused with a sigh, "is special enough for today. I mean, we do it all the time… but there's something about it that I can't explain."
"I think I know what you mean," Fluttershy said as she ran her hoof through the rainbow mane. "Just being able to feel each other and share our warmth is something special we share," she explained.
"Mmhm," Rainbow Dash agreed and nuzzled once again.
Fluttershy smiled and blushed at the strong affection. It might have been rare while they were dating for Rainbow Dash to show such a thing but now there was over a year of trust, intimacy, and love between them. It was easy now for her to give in to romance and display her affections for the pony she was so emotionally attached to.
No more words were needed to be said beyond this point. There was still more relaxing time that needed to be spent despite that they had slept for a few hours during a most refreshing afternoon nap. Both pegasi already were becoming aware of their hungry stomachs but they could hold off for a few more minutes to cuddle with each other.
After those few more minutes, Rainbow Dash decided to speak up for her own rumbling belly. "Hey, so uhh… do you wanna go anywhere for dinner?" she asked while she looked up at Fluttershy's serene face.
"Well… I actually had something else in mind. I thought you would really like to have some of my famous, cheesy pasta," she quietly answered.
The sentence alone was enough to make Rainbow Dash salivate and lick her chops in anticipation of one the best meals that could be made by her caring spouse. "You know how much I would love that? I mean, you make the best pasta ever!" she said after rolling over onto her back.
"You love everything that I make," Fluttershy giggled. Deciding that they had spent an ample amount of time on their new mattress, she carefully turned toward the other side of the bed and slowly climbed off the bed. "I hope my lazy pegasus gets out of bed soon, though. I'll be making dinner very soon!" she teased as she slowly walked out.
Still lying on the bed, Rainbow Dash's eyes followed Fluttershy as she left the room before she jolted up after a minute of deciding. "Hey, wait!" she called as she hurried down the stairs.
Upon reaching their dining table, the bold and sappy pegasus could hear the sweet humming of the kind animal caretaker. Deciding that making dinner was up to other pegasus alone, she took it upon herself to tidy up the place and prepare for a romantic evening meal. A quick inspection of the living room and the dining room showed that there was very little to clean up.
Instead of cleaning, Rainbow Dash pulled out two red candles that give off a pleasant fragrance from a cabinet in their dinner room. Inside that cabinet was also some matches which she used to light the candles after setting them on the table. These candles had been rarely used since they were only for special occasion. Both pegasi were quite fond of these candles though Rainbow Dash barely admitted that.
With nothing else to do, she had to sit tight on the couch and wait patiently. Fortunately, it easy for her do so because her favorite tortoise happened to be resting there. After what felt like a half hour of petting and quietly cooing at her pet, Rainbow Dash could smell the aroma of what she knew to be one the best meals to come. The noise of plates being set down on the table caught her attention and drew her to hop off the couch and rush for her dinner.
There was Fluttershy at the table, spooning out generous helpings of her famous pasta onto their plates. "Oh, there's my hungry pegasus!" she teased at the sight of a lip licking Rainbow Dash who looked at the food with a tongue sticking out.
"Yup, and I can't wait to dig in!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she seated herself.
Fluttershy disappeared into the kitchen and came out holding a bottle with her wing pressed against her side and two wine glasses in the other. "I have us something special to go with," she said and laid out the items on the table.
"Wait! You're not supposed to drinking!" Rainbow Dash stopped her as she noticed the wine bottle.
Fluttershy blushed in embarrassment and awkwardly brushed her mane. "Well, actually it's kind of a imitation wine," she explained. "Rarity gave it to me about two weeks ago, so I decided to save it for today."
"Oh," Rainbow Dash simply nodded and examined the bottle. Sure enough, there was the little words "Non-alcoholic" under the fancy label near the bottom. "Heh… sorry," she sheepishly apologized.
"No, it's fine," Fluttershy reassured her. "You were just looking out for me. Here, let me pour you some," she offered.
Rainbow Dash nodded and let her fill her glass up before taking a sip. "Hey, it's pretty good actually. It's like a mix between green apples and watermelon," she commented.
"Well, don't wait on me to start eating," Fluttershy joked while she went around to sit across the table. Upon seeing the special red candles that she wasn't aware of earlier, she looked at Rainbow Dash with curious eyes. "Oh, Rainbow… you brought out my favorite candles."
"Yeah, I knew you would like them," Rainbow Dash said back in a flirty voice. "Now, if you don't mind…" she trailed off as she looked at her white plate of cheesy and saucy pasta noodles.
Before letting her dive in, Fluttershy gave a slightly stern look to remind Rainbow Dash not to eat like a fierce timberwolf but changed it to a little smile. She was well aware that they would get sauce on their muzzles which was the reason they also had napkins. Though, Rainbow Dash wasn't exactly the most graceful eater, even considering that pegasi couldn't use utensils like the unicorns. Fluttershy watched her dig into the delicious pasta before she too took in a mouthful of her great cooking.
With bellies full of delicious pasta, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash had no intention of going far to spend the remainder of their day. It was rather unusually chilly this evening and that was enough to dissuade the couple from watching the sunset. Instead, they decided to spend that remainder of time close together before the hearth of their fireplace. Since their living was clear of animals which by now were tucked away in their nests, it would be a perfect moment to have to themselves.
The fire brought a comforting warmth upon the two pegasi. Something about the way the flames flickered over the burning wood captivated their attention. It was quiet except for the crackling sound in the bright fire. As they watched, different memories played through their minds of the past.
Feeling the need to talk, Rainbow Dash cleared her throat. "Hey, do you remember the day when we first got married?" she asked.
"Why, of course! How could I not?"
"I'll never forget it either," Rainbow Dash agreed. "Every time I think about it, I can't help but notice how much it changed my life."
Fluttershy leaned and rested her head on her lover's shoulder. "Oh, is my future Wonderbolt feeling sappy now?" she playfully teased.
"Hey, you're sappy all the time!" Rainbow Dash pointed out with a grin. Flaring her wings, she extended the right wing out to pull Fluttershy even closer in the most romantic gesture of her affection. This elicited a sigh from the creamy pegasus as she cuddled within the embrace. However, Rainbow Dash continued, "But, uhh… really, Fluttershy… I can't begin to describe how much you changed my life. It's weird to think that over a year ago, we were best friends and now we're so much closer on all these different levels."
With a quick peck on the cheek, Fluttershy agreed, "I know, Rainbow. It's a little strange to think like that. I never would have seen this coming when we first met. Who knew that this would happen?" she shrugged.
"Yeah…" Rainbow Dash trailed off.
Silence fell and their gazes focused on the flames once again. More memories passed over their minds as they nuzzled closer to the other. Nothing in the world could break the bonds that were holding these two mares together.
Eventually, Rainbow Dash spoke up again. "Hey, Fluttershy?" she asked.
Stirring under the cyan wing, Fluttershy replied, "What is it?"
"I kind of want to tell you something," she quietly answered.
"Of course! Go ahead."
"Look, I know I sometimes had trouble in the past trying to tell you how I feel about you… but I just want to thank you for everything. You gave me something that means a lot," she tried to explain and paused. "I know I've complained about this whole pregnancy deal and doing all this stuff for you… but I really don't mind doing it for you. You were the best marefriend to me and always welcomed me to your home… and your heart. I'm really happy that we could be so close like this."
Fluttershy giggled and nuzzled once more against Rainbow Dash's cheek. "Oh, Rainbow, I can't begin to say the same for you. I appreciate the cool hat you gave me and not to mention, the new mattress! You might have complained a bit but you really did so much for me. You gave me your heart… and that was the best gift you ever gave me."
Blushing, Rainbow Dash returned the gesture. "You're always welcome, Fluttershy."
"Just promise me something," Fluttershy began. "You've already done so much and cared for me during all this time. I want to do the same for you. It… won't be very long until it's time for to show the Wonderbolts just how great of a flier you are. I want you to let me be there for you, to cheer for you, and… I want to be the one to preen your feathers for you," she finished with a slight blush on her muzzle.
"You know, that would mean the world to me," Rainbow Dash replied.
Fluttershy giggled before turning to gaze into her eyes. It didn't take Rainbow Dash any time to take the hint and lean to kiss her on the lips. Just like that, they were joined in a passionate kiss. It didn't last very long but it was still much enjoyed by both ponies. Again, their gazes slowly turned to the fire but they watched close together, held by a hug that could only be given by a special somepony.
A/N: It's been long since this chapter has finally been finished. A lot of things happened between now and the previous, and a lot of rewriting was done during that lapse of this chapter. Thanks are owed to hawthornbunny from fimfiction for looking over a large portion of this. Many thanks also to FlutterDash7 for her feedback and looking it all over.
As always, any feedback is much appreciated.