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Good afternoon, darlings. You probably know who I am. Miss Rarity, owner and proprietor of the fabulous Carousel Boutique of Ponyville! Today is mostly just like any other day in this cozy little town, but I feel compelled to jot down a little journal of my own. A dear friend of mine, quite possibly Equestria's only human, seems to have a habit of writing down journals as well and I know I have written one or two before. So today, I told myself 'Well, why not?' and am writing this from my bedside. As for what happened today... I suppose I should start at the beginning.

Today started much like any for me. Feeding Opalescence, checking my schedule, managing my lists of commissions, adjusting prices for gemstone usage. I also found that my new assistant, Mitta, had already left to run some errands around town. Do you happen to know her? The gray earth pony mare with a bold crimson mane and no cutie mark? Such a dear, she is. Tailoring, especially in a world-renowned boutique like mine, is a very complex endeavor. But it was while checking my list of objectives that I noticed something that was set to occur at around 10 AM.

"Ah, now I remember! Fluttershy wished to have tea together!" I spoke upon recalling our encounter the previous day. To those of you who do not know, and I would be truly shocked if you did not; Fluttershy is the dearest friend I have ever had in Ponyville. We have known each other for quite some time and both hold a deep appreciation for beauty. She is a truly tender sweetheart and you should treat her kindly if you ever cross paths with her.

I spent my time working on the commissions I had received. A few dresses here, a half a dozen hats there, and a few vests for a couple of dashing stallions. And finally, 10 AM struck. I immediately put away my tailoring tools and trotted into the kitchen. I had only just put a teakettle onto the stove to boil water when I heard the bell over the boutique's front door ring. Not certain if it was indeed Fluttershy or another customer, I decided to play things safe and greet the walk-in like a guest. I called out while trotting out of the kitchen and into the main workroom, "Coooomiiiinnnng! Welcome to Carousel Boutique! Can I... Oh, Fluttershy! You're just in time!"

As it turned out, Fluttershy herself was standing just in front of my door. She gave me that lovely reserved smile she always shows and spoke in that tender quiet tone she always uses, "Good morning, Rarity. Am I too early?"

"Of course not, darling! In fact, you're just in time! I only just put the water on the stove to boil. Your tea will be extra fresh today." I replied while motioning for her to follow me. Fluttershy wasted no time in catching up to me and taking a seat at the table near the window.

"Thank you, Rarity. I hope I didn't make a mess of your schedule." Fluttershy spoke while I checked my tea supply for some chamomile teabags.

"Oh, it was no trouble at all, darling. You are more than welcome to pay me a visit whenever you desire. But now that I think about it, would you mind the kitchen for just a moment? I need to make certain that nopony intrudes on us during our time together." I replied while suddenly remembering to place a sign on my door to insure there would be no interruptions. I have a fair amount of work on my plate as is already.

"All right. I'll make sure to keep the water from boiling too long." Fluttershy answered with a happy nod. I then trotted back over to the front door and retrieved my secret weapon for peace and quiet from the closest drawer nearby. My invaluable 'out to lunch' sign. After making certain nopony was anywhere around to witness me placing the sign outside, I opened the door and hung the sign on the top knob before closing it in a hurry. But when I returned to the kitchen, I found Fluttershy pouring the steaming hot water into a ceramic teapot with two bags of chamomile tea that were then floating inside it while the water turned that telltale yellow hue. For those who may be confused, a teakettle is used for heating water while teapots are used for the steeping of tea. Trust me, it is not wise to heat water in a teapot.

"I hope I didn't get hasty. The pot was starting to whistle, so I thought I should pour it before it went on for too long." Fluttershy explained before setting the kettle back down on the stove and returning to her stool.

"Oh, that's quite all right, Fluttershy. I'll take care of the rest of the water." I replied before using some levitation magic to carry the kettle over to a pot of pansies and pouring the water just over the edge. The delightful scent of wet earth rose from the warm wet soil while I went about to gather up some light snacks to be enjoyed with the tea while the tea itself was steeped to bring out the flavor more.

After scrounging up some delightful dark chocolate mint cookies and a jar of honey, I took my seat opposite from Fluttershy while setting out the snacks and pouring our tea into matching teacups. "So sorry for the wait, darling. You just cannot ignore the staples of teatime."

Fluttershy responded while showing me an understanding smile. "It's fine, Rarity. I think the tea is just right by now too."

From then on, the visit became one of friendly chitchat interrupted by the crunching of cookies and the slurping of tea. "So, how has little Scootaloo been since moving in with the two of you? That was quite some time ago, was it not?"

Fluttershy nodded with a calm grin while enjoying one of our cookies. "She can be a handful at times, but she does liven things up when she is home. I don't mind her being with us at all. And she and James get along very well. But to me... I guess she's like a little sister."

I could not help but crack a smirk before replying, "And she gives you plenty of practice for the upcoming addition to the family, does she not?"

As I anticipated, Fluttershy became instantly flustered. Her wings sprang open while her yellow face became as pink as a peach. "You mean...?! Oh... Well... I guess you can look at it that way."

No denial of that at all? I could not help but feel slightly giddy at those words. "Aha! So you and your beloved are planning a little something special soon, are you? And your next heat cycle is in a month or two, isn't it? Although... Now that I think about it, have you and him been cautious the last few times you went into heat?"

I suppose I may have gotten a little too bold with my wording, although Fluttershy hardly seemed offended if at all. "Cautious? Um... No... We tend to get really passionate when we... You know."

"Really? And you don't use contraception at all?" I just had to ask. Fluttershy seems far too reserved to take a risk at pregnancy, as wonderful a mother I am sure she would be.

For whatever reason, her blush only seemed to deepen while a very awkward grimace spread across her lips. "Um... We did try once... But I don't think there are any condoms in Equestria that are small enough for human use."

Oh my lord... I could not contain myself after hearing that. Just the thought... My laughter continued on for a good while before I managed to calm myself. Fluttershy also seemed to break into quiet giggling while trying to restrain herself. What an awkward night that must have been for both of them!

"Oooh... Forgive me for laughing, Fluttershy. I know I should not ever laugh at something so crude, but... I just could not help myself!" I spoke apologetically, hoping I did not overreach myself.

Fluttershy was holding a hoof to her mouth while trying to suppress any laughter I am sure she was letting out. "It's fine... I thought it was funny too. It was especially awkward taking it back for a refund and explaining it was too big. I think James was especially embarrassed about having to say that to the clerk."

Oh, the images that flashed through my mind at those words. How unbecoming of me! "Well, enough of that. Is he always sweet to you?" I asked while taking another sip of my tea, the natural faint taste of honey already in the brew.

My dear friend let out a sigh while glancing out the window near her. "He's always so tender. He never forces me into anything... Sometimes, he leaves everything up to me, but I'm always so clueless on what to do more often than not." I noticed her beginning to blush quite heavily while letting out a long sigh. "We always start slow. Mostly just him caressing me all over so tenderly while kissing me on the neck... I can't believe how tender he is."

I too let out a long sigh... All right, I suppose there is no point in hiding it now. I too have developed very powerful feelings for that man since his arrival many months ago. He is just such a tender and generous soul. And he appreciates my beauty on a level none ever have before. And he recently even found a means to share his love with me while reserving his heart for his true beloved. Such a marvel, he is. "Indeed... I can never get enough of his touch. And his kisses... Oh, simply divine. He would make a fine husband."

It was then that I noticed that Fluttershy was giving me a rather giddy look. She then giggled while apparently noting just how lost in my thoughts I had become. "It's been a few weeks since you two resolved that. Has he been good to you whenever he visits?"

I could not help swooning while imagining some of his most recent visits. "Oh, has he ever... What I would give for him to be my betrothed... You have no idea what it is you have, Fluttershy. No idea at all."

I think Fluttershy found my reaction to be rather laughable since she let out a brief giggle. But at the same time, she seemed rather guilty. "I'm glad you and him are so close... I'm sorry though..."

"Hm? Oh, no! There's no need to be sorry, Fluttershy! If nothing else, you need him more than I do! Please, don't apologize. His heart belongs to you and you should be happy about that!" I replied upon seeing that rather melancholy gaze she was giving me.

"Are you sure? I mean... I know you love him so much... I feel guilty for taking him away from you..." She replied once again with a truly ashamed gaze. She even went so far as to try and hide her face behind her mane.

I let out a long sigh. Fluttershy has always been a very sensitive mare and cares so much for others and far too little for herself. "Darling... Do not let my feelings affect your relationship with him. Granted, I do love him more than I should... But that cannot be helped. He has chosen you and I respect that. Although... May I ask you something personal?"

Fluttershy hesitated for a moment before moving her mane out of her face. "Um... I guess. What is it?"

I gathered my courage before finally asking. I had to be careful with how I worded my question so as to not sound at all confrontational. "Well... I've been wondering. Exactly what happened that prompted you to confess to him when you did? You never once seemed like the kind of girl who was looking to start a relationship with anypony. You always seemed content being by yourself in your cottage with just your animal friends for company."

She clearly did not expect that question at all. Her beautiful eyes opened quite wide before she blushed very deeply. "Um... I'll try to explain it the best I can... It just...started to bud over the first few days. I guess it started when I saw him for the first time in Sugarcube Corner. Twilight and Rainbow Dash told me somepony was hurt in there and that they needed someone gentle to help him feel better. I was nervous, but they assured me that I was best for the job... And when I saw him... He looked so fragile and helpless. You know how I usually am around new ponies, right?"

"I do. You are a very cautious sort. And please, do go on." I replied softly while taking another sip of my tea.

She took another sip as well to calm herself before continuing. "Well... I had an easier time approaching him at the time than I do with most new ponies. He opened up to me slowly and gently. I never once felt afraid of him... I guess that's where it started. I saw him as a gentle sensitive soul like me. And I was happy to be his friend."

I felt such a warm smile spread across my lips while I listened. I have at times wondered exactly what happened during James' first day in Ponyville before he and I crossed paths. "It sounds like the two of you really hit it off. What happened next?"

Fluttershy soon began to smile more wholeheartedly while she spoke. "Over the next few days, he would visit me at my place or sometimes even in the park. He was always so sweet to me...Almost as if he was trying to be as pleasant as possible. Well, there was one moment where he said something hurtful, but I think it was just a hasty response to something Rainbow Dash was prodding him about and he apologized nicely after that. But he was always so gentle and tender... I don't think I've ever met a stallion like him before."

"He certainly is like that, isn't he? But what exactly prompted you to confess when you did?" I asked, finding the details about their encounters to be so endearing. I can only imagine what happened between those two lovebirds.

"Well... I guess it just built over the first few days. I think I just felt...confused about my feelings. I wasn't even really sure if I was in love or not. But...I guess it was when I saw that bracelet he got for you that I felt myself panic a little." She replied, looking terribly ashamed of herself while she did so.

My bracelet... I raised my right hoof to examine it. That modest silver band with a line of shimmering opals lining its length. "Of course... He did get this for me and I showed it off to everypony I met that day..."

Fluttershy nodded with a sigh. "It was when I saw that bracelet that I felt so anxious. I felt like it was a sign. Like...if I didn't tell him right away, I was going to lose him forever. So...I took a chance. I wrote a love letter, but... I just couldn't bring myself to show him. I was so certain he wouldn't have any interest in me like that. I mean...nopony has ever looked at me like that before. Why would he be any different, you know?"

"Darling... You don't give yourself enough credit. You are one of the sweetest mares I have ever met. In all honesty, I'm surprised there aren't more stallions clamoring for your attention. But please, do go on." I spoke while feeling oh so proud of Fluttershy for finding the bravery to take the leap of faith needed to express her true feelings to the man she came to love.

"All right... Well, I think Angel found out about it and snuck the note out of the house before I could notice. And James came to my home with it in hand. I... I felt so scared. Like I had made the biggest mistake of my life. But..." She spoke softly, tears beginning to form at the edges of her eyes. "He... He didn't reject me at all... He accepted my feelings and gave the relationship a chance... I couldn't believe how well it had turned out."

I used a little levitation magic to bring a napkin to her eyes to dry her flowing tears. I felt so proud of dear Fluttershy as she spoke her words of truest love. "And I am so glad you took that chance. How would you describe how things have been since then?"

At those words, Fluttershy gave me one of the most sincere and tearful smiles I have ever seen on her. That look of true absolute gratitude. As if she was genuinely happy for how things are now. "To be honest... Best decision of my life."

"I would say so. He's been nothing but a blessing to you. I've even noticed how you two seem to draw off of each other. You really do seem to come out of your shell with him and vice versa." I replied with a complimenting grin of my own.

"Thank you, Rarity... I try to do my best for him." She said with a meek smile before enjoying some more tea and another cookie. Her cup was empty after that, so I poured her some more.

Eventually, I finally felt the need to ask her a question I had been far too worried to ask until then. "Fluttershy? Forgive me for not asking this sooner, but... Do you feel...comfortable with James sharing his love with me? I know it's not the same as cheating, but... I am just worried."

I was actually rather surprised by how calm she seemed about it. "Oh, don't worry, Rarity. I know you love him and that he loves you. But as long as I know he's saving his heart for me, I know he won't leave me or give himself to anypony else. It's not the first time somepony else has shown those kinds of feelings for him. Rainbow Dash even tried to be his special somepony on Hearts and Hooves Day."

I very nearly spewed my drink clear across the kitchen upon hearing that name. Truly? Rainbow Dash, of all ponies?! "Rainbow... Are you certain?! Rainbow Dash?! She is the last mare I know who would be even remotely interested in a relationship at all! And you are saying that she, of all ponies, tried to be his special somepony?"

Fluttershy seemed to scratch her head in bewilderment as well. "I... Well, she did ask me to let James know that she wanted to meet him by the pond in the park that day. I just had no idea that the whole reason behind it was that...romantic. And it wasn't just some little crush either. I really think she's very much in love with him."

It took a moment for me to wrap my mind around that image. Rainbow Dash having a powerful romantic interest in James... How...unexpected. "Well... For something like that to happen... Something truly powerful must have occurred between them. It's not my place to ask why though. I just hope she shows some restraint. She isn't exactly known for self-control." We both got a good chuckle out of that. Even so... Rainbow Dash and James... Who would have ever guessed?

Not much later, I received a rather unexpected question from my dear friend. "Um... Rarity? You and James haven't been going too far whenever he visits you, right? And does Mitta know?"

I could not help but chuckle while waving my hoof reassuringly. "Oh, there's no need to worry. I have made it quite clear with him that my body is only reserved for the man I am destined to wed. We only reserve ourselves to tender cuddles and sweet kisses and nothing more. He knows full well where his heart is. Mitta knows as well and seems to fully understand. Even so..." I then rested my cheek on my upturned hoof and sighed deeply as the memories started to come flowing back. "I swear... I have the most amazing dreams on the days he visits."

Fluttershy gave me a fairly excited gaze. She seemed very interested in what I had to say. She need not even say it. And so, I went on. "I can vividly remember some of them. In one... We were on our honeymoon. And that night, we..." I paused as I felt my face flush red at the memory. And Fluttershy could clearly see it too.

"And you... You what?" She asked while giving me that innocent gaze of hers.

Hoping to get the image across without going into too much detail, I tried to reply as wittily as possible. "Well... Let's just say that it felt so vividly real that I had to change my bed's sheets the following morning. But you never heard that from me! Promise me you will not tell anypony I told you that! You must! You must!"

Fluttershy sounded as if she was going to roll onto the floor and burst out into laughter at any given second. Oh dear, could I have worded that better? "Oh dear... I hope you two had a good night together. But what else was there?"

I thought back to the memories of the dreams I had experienced and recalled one of my favorites. "Oh, there was another. But I think in terms of time, it took place several months later. And... Well, I recall looking in the mirror and..." I just could not help bringing my hooves to my mouth and giggling like a schoolgirl. In my memory, I could see myself standing before a full-length mirror, my eyes focused on a rounded bulge hanging between my hind legs. "Let's just say our efforts had finally bore fruit."

I saw Fluttershy's face instantly light up with a blush. "You... Oh my... You were with child?"

"Yes, I was! And I swear, I had never felt more beautiful than at that moment! And the proud father... Oh, he could hardly keep his hands off of me. I loved the feeling of his touch upon my belly... And he was so catering to me. He waited on me hand and foot. I felt not like a princess, but like a queen!" I just went on and on, the memories still clear in my mind. That was one of the most enjoyable dreams I have ever had in my life. But then I explained the only drawback to it. "In fact, it was so convincing that I woke up with the strangest craving for chocolate ice cream topped with cucumbers, chili peppers, and garlic. Where did that even come from? It was so repulsive, and yet I loved it!"

That look on her face... Fluttershy seemed absolutely repulsed by the thought of such a horrid combination for a snack. I doubt even Spike would try to eat that. "That...sounds awful. And you really ate that?"

I winced at the memory of even tasting that. "I did... And I spent the next hour using mouthwash to remove the aftertaste. Is it normal for pregnant mares to get such bizarre cravings?"

"Uh... I wouldn't know. But if James and I ever have a foal together, I'll be sure to let you know." Fluttershy retorted with a rather awkward grin. Oh, I can only wonder how much longer it will be before the day comes for them. I think they would both make fine parents. Perhaps I would even be given the honor of being the little darling's godmother! "But are there anymore dreams you want to share?"

"Well... There is one that takes precedence over the others..." I spoke with a long sigh. The dream I was remembering... Such a precious memory. "And it...was so beautiful..."

"Are you all right? You don't have to tell me if it's too painful..." Dear Fluttershy spoke while looking oh so worried.

"No, it's fine... I can tell you." I spoke softly while my vision became blurred with tears. "I think it must have been some time later... Maybe even years. More than anything, I remember feeling so happy. And...along with James, he was there too."

"He?" My dear friend asked while looking understandably confused.

I felt a smile creep across my face as I remembered his face. That darling child looking up at me. "He called me 'Mother' and was wearing an adorable blue bow tie. He had the most brilliant white coat and a shimmering dark brown mane and tail with the loveliest azure eyes filled with sophistication and pride, but also a deep-seated kindness. I remember calling him...Fashion Star."

I then looked at Fluttershy, tears flowing freely without any means to stop them. "I had a son, Fluttershy. And...I do not think I have ever felt more content than at that moment."

She too began to shed tears while showing a most forlorn smile. "He must have been so handsome... I'm so sorry it was just a dream..."

I shook my head to clear my thoughts and wiped my tears away with a napkin. "No, it's fine, Fluttershy. It was just a dream. And I did wake up feeling very refreshed that morning. My inspiration was also in peak condition, so that was a plus too."

For a minute or so, there were no words between us. I began to fear that perhaps Fluttershy felt I had been trying to place as much guilt on her as possible. Finally, I decided to break the silence. "Fluttershy, are you all right?"

My friend let out a very long sigh while casting her gaze to the table. It took a moment for her to finally speak. "Rarity... Were you hoping to start a family someday?"

A very heavy question, to be sure. I sighed while smiling just slightly as I stirred some honey into my drink. "Every little filly has her dreams, darling. Part of why I was so interested in becoming a fashion designer was because I was sure I could use my creativity in such a way that would bring in some hefty finances. And as I'm sure you know, the majority of my clients have very deep pockets. And that means financial stability as a means to raise a child."

When Fluttershy did not immediately reply, I decided to continue speaking while the clinking of my teaspoon broke the silence inside my teacup. "My dream is not just to be famous across the land. I also dream of finding my one true prince. A wonderful man who would love me until the end of time and stay by my side. And together, we would bring a beautiful new life into this world. I know I can get impatient with dear little Sweetie Belle, but that is from the usual irritation between siblings, not between a woman and child. I do believe...that I would have the means to be a good mother. Do you think I have the qualities needed for it?"

Fluttershy nodded quietly with a reassuring smile. "Yes... I think you would be a very sweet mother. And I know James would've...been a perfect prince to you. If only I did not say anything to him that day..."

The poor dear. Putting my needs before her own. "Darling, please. No more of that. Whether or not James and I would have been an ideal couple is no longer relevant. You are his betrothed and I respect that. I assure you that I do not hold a grudge in the slightest. And besides, he and I still hold a close bond and we share our love freely with each other. That...is enough to satisfy me. I swear, do not worry about me." I then let out a sigh, a very taboo thought entering my head. "Although...there are times when I have considered something. Something definitely not to be taken lightly."

My words seemed to catch Fluttershy's attention. "Um... What is this something you thought of?"

This was not going to be an easy topic to discuss. Even so, I tried to ease myself into it. "Well... It's something that only rarely crosses my mind. And even then, only briefly. As for what it is... And please do not jump to conclusions right away. What do you feel...when you imagine two mares sharing one stallion?"

Her eyes opened as wide as saucers. At first, I could tell she was utterly speechless and for good reason. I cannot recall the last time I had ever even heard of such a relationship in Equestria. Is it even legal?

"Uh... That? Well... I... I don't know... Why do you ask?" Fluttershy stammered out while clearly looking quite flustered.

"I'm sure you can guess. Tell me honestly, darling. Seeing as how you likely spend more time with him than myself, do you personally feel that James could potentially handle a functioning relationship with both of us without picking favorites?" I asked in return while not really expecting an answer. I would be surprised if she could even answer that at all.

Fluttershy became silent for a good full minute. Her eyes glanced around everywhere, completely ignoring her cup of tea in front of her. "Uh... Well... After seeing how close you and him have become... And how he has never once drifted away from me because of it... I think...he could."

I was actually slightly surprised to hear her response. And I honestly felt my mind wander for a moment. My son and Fluttershy's child would surely become the best of friends. But there was one much more important question on my mind. "Well, I too feel he could. It is rare for somepony to have a heart as big and flexible as his. And it is especially rare to find someone with such an open mind. But even so... Do you believe he would be willing to even attempt such a feat?"

This time, Fluttershy did not take long to answer me at all. "No... He would never feel confident enough to try it. He loves me too much and he would probably be afraid that he would end up favoring you and breaking my heart... He's too humble for something like that."

"Very true. He may even be too humble for his own good. Although, with all things considered... I doubt I would be willing to share my beloved to that extreme either. As greedy as that may sound..." I retorted as well, knowing all too well just how modest James is. He would never agree to such a proposition. At least not without some very heavy encouragement.

"Me too... I would be...too scared to risk that. I can't let him do to another mare what he only does with me. I just... I'm sorry." Fluttershy spoke with a truly shameful frown. I could tell that she feared that she had disappointed me. Of course, she did not. Not even in the slightest.

"Darling, it's fine. It was just a passing thought I have had from time to time. I think it would be for the best that it does not happen. Our friends would likely accept it, but how would we explain such a thing to everypony else? What would the rest of Ponyville think? It would be a challenge to keep such a relationship secret. And it would only be compacted if we both ended up having his child. It... Let's pretend I never brought this subject up. I feel bad for even mentioning it..." I spoke with a sigh, feeling much of my enthusiasm plummeting. Such a wretched thought. I cannot believe I ever even considered it...

I felt so distraught; I did not even notice Fluttershy hop down from her stool. It was not until she had thrown her arms around me in a tender embrace that I came out of my stupor. She spoke softly without even the tiniest hint of disappointment. "It's all right, Rarity... I think this only shows how much you love him. James would probably feel really flattered and honored that you cherish him so deeply."

Her words did a great deal to soothe my troubled soul. I too wrapped my arms around her and replied in kind. "Thank you... I do adore that man. But don't you ever leave him, Fluttershy. You went the extra mile to claim his heart, so don't you dare throw it away. He knows the pain of betrayal already and I will not stand by idly if you do to him what his former lover did." I swear, I had no desire to do her harm, but I cannot bear the thought of anyone bringing harm to such a well-meaning and very loving man.

Fluttershy nodded before pulling away from me so that we were eye to eye. "I know, Rarity. I won't leave him. That's a promise. And thank you for loving him. I hope he'll always be there for you like he is for me."

Our teatime became rather uneventful from that point onward, although there was not much left to enjoy after that little conversation. I soon bid Fluttershy goodbye and proceeded to clean up our mess. And hours later, here I am at my bedside writing this. It felt good to get all of this down on paper, as if a small weight has been lifted from my shoulders. Only now I must prepare dinner. Some fine quiche sounds appetizing right now.

I am not certain when or if I will write again, but this was fairly enjoyable. Perhaps I will write another journal soon if anything noteworthy comes up. But until that day comes, au revoir!