Summer Vacations

By Fox McCloude and MajinLu

Disclaimer: Pokémon belongs to Satoshi Tajiri and Nintendo.

Part 1: We go on vacations.

Cerulean City Gym…

For Misty, being all alone in the gym could be really boring. Her older sisters went out frequently, leaving her in charge of the chores, and of course having the battles with the challengers. The bright side was that, once she was done, she could have the huge pool all for herself, which wasn't too bad considering how much she loved swimming with her Pokémon, but even that didn't make it much easier to bear. It was very hard to be all alone in such a huge place. Fortunately, since a few months back, she didn't have to do it all by herself. Not from that day, when Ash offered to stay for a season in the gym to help her with the work and keep her company.

Ash's 18th birthday marked a total change in the lives of both of them. Until then, Ash and Misty had only been best friends, but Misty decided to risk out everything that day, and confess to Ash what she really felt for him for so many years. It had been a huge risk, but it had been worth it, and all thanks to that song. Now they were officially a couple, and they were really, really happy together. Misty thought she couldn't have asked for a better boyfriend. Sure, Ash had one or two quirks, but leaving them aside, he was more tan enough for her, and she loved him because he was… well, because he was Ash. She wouldn't spend the rest of her life with somebody else than him.

At the moment, Misty was wiping out the floor around the pool. She always got up early to do it, force of habit, and surely enough Ash was still on the guest room, sleeping like a trunk. She was sure that, when he woke up, he would be mad at her for starting the cleaning without him, but she always wanted to show off her hospitality. Besides, that way, they would have more time for themselves when the chores were done.

- Starting without me again? – A voice spoke up behind her, while a pair of hands covered her eyes.

- I thought you'd be sleeping. – She replied; there was no need for her to see to know whose voice it was. Ash removed his hands from Misty's eyes, and then she turned around to face him.

- I'm supposed to help you with the chores here, but you won't let me. – He said with a smile, and holding her waist to bring her closer to him.

- Ash, you're my guest here. – She said. – And I'm used to this, don't worry. -

- I should do my part too. You've been a great hostess to me; I would be ungrateful if I didn't help you at all. Tracey never minded about doing it for Daisy, why can't I do it for you? -

- I'm not like Daisy. You're my boyfriend, not my personal servant. – Misty assured. It was true, Daisy always managed to get Tracey to do all the work so that she wouldn't get dirty. But Misty thought that she had no rights to do the same to Ash.

- Come on, a little help won't make any harm, and we get it done faster. Besides, even if I get tired, I've heard that the massages of a certain redhead I know can make miracles. – He insisted, holding her tightly and dangerously approaching her lips. Just as soon as they had barely rubbed each other a bit, Misty dropped her mop, and holding the back of Ash's head, she gave in to the impulse and taking the initiative, she kissed him first.

And so were things since five months before, since Ash's 18th birthday. The trainer from Pallet Town had said that it would be "just for a season", but he had practically moved into the Cerulean Gym, so as to spend more "quality time" with his lovely girlfriend. Ash had even taken along his Water-type Pokémon so as to lend them to Misty for the battles, something she was delighted to accept, they had become valuable allies. Misty was really surprised on how well Ash had trained his Pokémon in the last few years. If she didn't know better, she would find impossible to believe that he was that same clumsy and clueless little boy whom she had fished by accident that fateful day. Furthermore, there was the fact that, even though when they were kids Ash had little-to-no tact for women, in these last few months they had been dating he had been a really loving and caring boyfriend to her. Although, maybe that was greatly due to the advice he occasionally received from Ms. Ketchum and Brock about how to handle a relationship.

Among the "chores" Ash had to take care of in the gym, according to Misty the most important one was playing the part of the Prince in their underwater show "The Misty Mermaid", which had become quite the attraction in Cerulean. Daisy was always delighted by their amazing performance, whereas Violet and Lily noted that they weren't even acting. And maybe, in a way, they were right, as they had no need of feigning their role of lovers.

There were, however, a couple of things Ash didn't particularly enjoy: the first one was the fact that he had to kiss Misty in front of so many people (they had decided to add a kiss at the end of the act when Ash joined them, to make it more "passionate"). For him, that was private. Misty didn't seem to mind, in fact, she seemed to like very much that everybody knew how much they loved each other, both inside and outside of their play. Of course, it was much more enjoyable when they were alone, and Misty always kept the best of herself only for Ash. And the second one was, of course, the huge crowd of Misty's fanboys, who never stopped chasing her around, and he had always to defend her from them… But well, going back to the important stuff…

In their quality time, of course, they had a few small misfortunes. On one occasion, Ash and Misty were sharing a very tender moment at the Cerulean Cape north of the city. As many people knew, the Cerulean Cape was a very popular meeting place for dating couples, especially at nightfall time, when a beautiful and romantic sunset could be seen from the top of the hill. They were watching the sunset, without any worries, until they were interrupted by a trainer who allegedly had come to challenge the gym for a badge, and seemed to be quite upset at the leader for not being there when he went. Furious at the trainer for interrupting their date, Misty asked him if he had seen the "Closed" notice in the entrance, and the boy said he did see it, but he had not come all the way from afar to find a door closed, and demanded the match. Misty reluctantly accepted, making her challenger to promise that, should he lose, he wouldn't show his face at her gym anymore. There's actually no need of describing the battle, the best way of putting it would be that it didn't last long, and by the end of the day the trainer went off running with the tail between his legs. Lesson from this: never interrupt Misty Waterflower when she's on a date.

(Author's note: Maybe you noticed, but I based on the encounter with Misty in Gold/Silver/Crystal and HeartGold/SoulSilver for this, except that I changed a bit the outcome)

- I said no. No massages for the time being. – She said smiling, after they separated. – After all, I'm almost done. It's still early; you can go back sleep a bit more. Today the gym's closed, and my sisters are going out. We can have the pool just for us two on the afternoon, if you wish. -

- Fine, have it your way. – Ash said, resigned. – But the next time, you'll let me help you, OK? No excuses. -

- I'll think about it. – She said, still smiling.

Ash went back to his room to sleep again. Misty continued with the cleaning by herself, and she didn't actually take too long to finish. She then went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast for her and Ash. It was true that Misty was not exactly the best cook in town, but she had learned a few easy recipes with a book Delia had given her. "For your future times", that was what she said. And of course, Misty knew that in a not very far future it was more than likely that she would have to prepare Ash's three daily meals and she didn't want to kill him in the process.

She was preparing scrambled eggs with cheese and bacon, when she heard the doorbell ringing. Wondering who could be, after all, since it was Saturday the gym was closed to the challengers that day, Misty served her food in a couple of dishes and covered them up to go to the door to see who it was. While making her way to the gym's entrance, the doorbell rang a couple of times more.

- I'm coming, geez! – She said while running towards the door. – My God, it better be important. -

A bit annoyed, Misty opened the door, but the annoyance disappeared from her when she saw who was at the door. It was none other than Lorelei, the great Master of Water and Ice Pokémon, and member of the Kanto Elite Four, whom Misty worshipped as her heroine. Lorelei was a fairly attractive woman in her early thirties, tall and with a nice figure. She had long, deep red hair tied in a low ponytail with a Pokéball-shaped brooch, two long bangs falling down her temples and a stylish fringe; she had dark blue eyes and wore thin, elongated glasses. She was wearing a black, sleeveless blouse, a purple mini-skirt and low-heeled shoes, as well as a golden bracelet on her left wrist (Author's note: If the description is not enough, think about the clothes she wears in the FireRed and LeafGreen games).

- Hello there, Misty, long time no see. – She greeted, with that relaxed tone so characteristic of her, as water flowing.

- L-Lorelei? H-hi. – Misty couldn't believe it. – What brings you here? Come in, please, make yourself at home. -

Lorelei entered the gym; Misty took her to the lounge so she could take a seat.

- Please take a seat. – She said, pointing at a couch. – Do you want something to drink, maybe some coffee, or tea? -

- Some icy water would be fine. – Lorelei replied. Misty ran to the kitchen and returned with a glass full of icy water. Lorelei took a sip, while Misty sat on the sofa in front of her.

- So, what brings you to visit my gym, Lorelei? I've just made some breakfast, but if you want… -

- Don't worry, I'm not gonna stay too long. I'm here for official business. – Lorelei explained. – By the way, lately I've been hearing some very interesting rumors. –

- Rumors? – Misty asked. – About what? -

- About you, and your friend Ash. Although, I understand that, recently, you two are "more than just friends", isn't that right? – She said the last part winking.

Misty said nothing, but she smiled. Judging by her gesture, Lorelei seemed to take that as an affirmation.

- So tell me, how do you handle it? Do you have a good relationship? Seeing that you're already living together… -

- Don't get it wrong! – Misty blushed at Lorelei's apparent insinuation, and in turn she giggled. – He's not living here, he just… wanted to keep me some company for a while, that's all. Anyway, going straight to the point, what can I do for you? -

- Well, maybe you remember that, last year, Ash went to the Indigo Plateau to take the trial for the Kanto Elite. – Lorelei explained. – Especially since some of us are thinking about retirement now. -

Misty nodded. She remembered that, around that time, Ash was going to the Indigo Plateau; however, he postponed it a bit so as to attend her birthday.

- So… what's up with that? – Misty asked.

- Misty! Is breakfast ready? I'm starving! – She heard Ash's voice; he seemed to be awake again. A while later, he showed up at the lounge, and he was surprised to see the visitor. – Ah, Lorelei, it's you. So good to see you, long time. -

- Hello, Ash. – Lorelei said smiling. – As I was telling you, I'm thinking about choosing my successor at the Elite… and there's where you come in. -

- M-me? – Misty couldn't believe what she was hearing.

- Your skill level as a trainer has grown formidably. – Lorelei said. – I'm sure that, with a bit of my special training, you might get the post. –

- You're choosing Misty as your successor in the Elite? -

- Lance has already chosen his own, that means, you. – Lorelei said to Ash. – So I thought it was time for me to find mine. -

- Hey, that's great. – Ash said. – Now you'll be part of the Elite as well, Misty. -

- So… well, I wanted to ask you if you'd like to travel with me to the Sevii Islands to properly train you. -

- When would that be? – Misty asked, and she didn't seem quite as excited as she should be with such an opportunity.

- I'm planning on going to the Sevii Islands next month. – Lorelei said. – If you accept, the training would last about six months. What do you say, will you come with me? -

Misty stared at Lorelei in silence. She then turned towards Ash with an interrogating expression, as if she was asking him what he thought about it. Ash, in turn, wondered why Misty had not accepted immediately.

- Misty, what are you waiting for? Do say yes, you know you want it. – Ash said.

- I… - Unbestknown to Ash and Lorelei, an inner struggle was taking place in Misty's mind. Half of her wanted to shout out loud that she wanted to go and make that special training with Lorelei. The other half, however, thought that she would have to leave the gym, her sisters… and Ash, during six long months. Lorelei seemed to perceive Misty's doubts, as she spoke up:

- OK… you don't need to give me an answer now. – She stood up, leaving the glass full of ice on the table. – If you don't want to, I'll understand, but if you decide to come along, please call me, OK? It was nice to see you, with your permission. -

And saying no more, Lorelei turned around and walked towards the gym's entrance. Misty was still motionless on the sofa. Ash didn't speak until Lorelei disappeared behind the door.

- Have you lost your mind? How could you have let her go just like that? -

- Eh? – Misty was brought back to earth by Ash's sudden scream.

- It's Lorelei, Misty! Lorelei! No way, she came to tell you that she had chosen you as her successor, and you stay stiff as concrete? -

- Hey, it's not that simple. – Misty replied.

- Hmm… - Ash stared at her suspiciously. – Alright, who are you and what have you done to Misty Waterflower? -

- Ash! – Misty became irritated by that comment, but Ash stood firm.

- I can't believe that the Misty I know could pass such a great opportunity. – Ash said, crossing his arms.

- Maybe that's because there are other important things as well. – Misty said in her defense.

- Oh yeah? Like what, for example? -

- You should know that by now, shouldn't you? – Misty said, standing up from the sofa and looking into his eyes from close up in a very threatening way. Ash trembled for a second; if looks could kill, Misty could almost be a mass murderer in that moment. For a split second he thought she was going to smack him or something, but she just walked away from him and went into the kitchen.

- Breakfast is ready; we better go eat before it gets cold. – She said.

Misty disappeared through the hallway going to the kitchen. Ash remained static for a moment, and scratched the back of his head, like asking "What's her problem?"

Misty's room, later…

It was 8:40 pm, and Misty was laying on her bed, dressed in her sleeping clothes, a yellow, thin-strapped blouse with a Staryu on the chest, and a pair of loose white pants with yellow stars, but she wasn't sleeping, she was awake, her eyes wide open, both of them looking at the ceiling. She and Ash had not talked to each other in the whole afternoon. After Lorelei had left, at lunch time Ash once again brought up the topic of why she had not accepted her proposal, something she didn't want to talk about. But due to his insistence, and his inability to understand why she had done that, they ended up in the middle of a scream exchange, which ended with Misty yelling furious "Leave me alone!" and locking up in her room, slamming the door in Ash's face. Now she felt bad for doing it, but he couldn't shake off of his mind that he was too stubborn. In any case, she felt embarrassed to admit the actual reason why she hadn't been able to give Lorelei an immediate answer.

Misty had always idolized Lorelei, she was her heroine, her biggest inspiration, and the fact that she wanted to train her to turn her into her successor in the Elite 4 was the greatest honor she could dream of. Once upon a time, she would have accepted the offer without hesitation. But now, things were different. The Cerulean Gym had been her home since she was born, and she didn't like very much the idea of leaving it. And it had never felt like a home until five months before, since Ash had come to stay with her.

Admitting to herself, Misty acknowledged that, in part, the reason of being mad at Ash was because he was still somewhat oblivious in regards to feelings. But, Misty thought, that wasn't his fault entirely. How could Ash know that her mind was struggling in that moment? The price to pay for that training would mean six months away from her home, away from him. Even though they had been separated for similar periods before, some of them even longer, back then they were just friends. But now, they both shared a lot more with each other, as a couple. She felt really happy being close to him; much happier than she remembered ever to have been in her life. And that was something she didn't want to leave behind. But of course, Ash wouldn't understand unless she explained it to him directly. The question was, how to do it?

The room's door opened with a screech. Misty did not move from the bed, she just turned her head to see a young woman with blonde hair and green eyes peeking on the door, smiling a bit nervous.

- Hey. May I? – It was Daisy, her eldest sister.

- Back so early? – Misty asked.

- Violet and Lily got tired, and they asked me to bring them back home. – Daisy said while entering the room. She was still wearing her party dress, dark red with matching arm-length gloves and high-heeled shoes, looking like a supermodel. Misty couldn't help but feel a bit envious; she looked really beautiful and elegant.

- Hmm… - Misty burrowed her mouth. – So, can I help you? -

- I'd say, it's you who need my help right now. – Daisy said, as she sat on the edge of the bed.

- What are you talking about? – Misty tried to play dumb, although Daisy seemed to know very well what she was talking about.

- You and Ash got in an argument for something, didn't you? – Was Daisy's response.

- Did he tell you? -

- No, but he seemed upset when we came in. – Daisy said. – What happened? -

- I don't wanna talk about it. – Misty snapped.

- Misty, come on, don't be so hard, tell me. – Daisy insisted.

Misty wanted to play impenetrable, however, Daisy talked to her in a maternal tone which eventually made her crumble. In the last few years, the two had become quite close. Maybe it was due to the fact of Daisy, being the oldest sister, had to be the head of the family, and she felt it was her responsibility to watch over the well-being of her other sisters, specially Misty's, who was the youngest of the four, and had mostly lacked a motherly figure due to the untimely death of their mother. That role had been filled by Daisy and Delia Ketchum somehow, but since the latter didn't live with them, Daisy had to make the biggest part, and it was her whom Misty came to when she needed advice, as she was the one who could understand her better. Before she had realized, Misty had already told her about Lorelei's visit, about how she had asked her to come along for training at the Sevii Islands, about how Ash became upset upon seeing her so indecisive, and how ended everything.

- … and well, I exploded, I told him to leave me alone, and slammed the door in his face. – She ended her speech.

- And you plan on waiting for tomorrow to apologize to him? – Daisy said.

- Why should I? It was him who started, not me. – Misty replied.

- Misty… be sincere, are you really mad at Ash? – Daisy asked.

- Hmm… - Misty wanted to groan something, but Daisy had hit the bull's-eye. – *Sigh*, OK, I guess not. I know I shouldn't have yelled at him, neither slamming the door on his face, but… -

- And about that offer Lorelei spoke about. – Daisy interrupted before she could end. – I have to say, I'm surprised you didn't accept it immediately. -

- Are you gonna annoy me with that too? – Misty was starting to get upset again. Why couldn't they leave her alone with that?

- You had been waiting so long for a chance like that. – Daisy said. – Tell me, do you really want to let it pass? -

Misty remained silent: Daisy had just hit a nerve. Certainly, it wasn't like she wanted to let it pass, it was a unique chance in life. But in regards to the price she had to pay… she had to consider that too.

- I don't want to abandon my gym. – She admitted half the reason.

- Your gym? – Daisy asked, looking at her inquisitively. – Or is it Ash whom you don't want to abandon? -

- "Dang it." – Misty couldn't believe it. Could it be that Daisy's female intuition was never wrong? – I guess both of them. – She finally admitted.

- You're worried about how could that affect your relationship, being so afar from each other, right? – Daisy asked. Misty said nothing but she nodded. – Hey, you don't have to worry. Look at me and Tracey, sometimes we don't see each other for months, and even so we're really happy. -

- I'm not you, and Ash is not Tracey. – Misty declared as a fact. – It's different for us. -

- No, it's not. – Daisy said. – You love him, and he loves you. That's all what matters. And just because you have a relationship with him, it doesn't mean you should leave aside your own dreams. There's always time for everything. -

- OK, so, according to you, what should I do? – Misty asked, while sitting against the head of her bed. – Should I accept Lorelei's offer and travel with her to the Sevii Islands? -

- I would, if I were you. – Daisy said.

- But what about Ash, then? Aren't we supposed to…? -

- About that. – Daisy interrupted again. – Didn't you say Lorelei would leave in a month? Meanwhile, you can spend some quality time with Ash, before you have to go. -

- What do you mean? We both have… What's that? – Misty asked while Daisy pulled out from her bag a pair of prized tickets. They both had the silhouettes of a couple in a hug, with a beach sunset for background.

- Take a look at this. – Daisy smiled. – Two first-class tickets for the new deluxe cruiser departing from Vermillion next week, the S.S. Aqua Gates. Also, it includes a two-week stay with unlimited credit for all expenses at the Landmark Hotel in Cinnabar Island. – She added giving her a pamphlet on said hotel. – We're on the middle of summer, and it's the perfect time of the year to go on vacations over there. Beach, sun, and sea. What else could you ask for? -

- You can't be serious. – Misty said. She was really giving her those tickets?

- I was planning on inviting Tracey to come with me, but… - Daisy placed the tickets on Misty's hands. - … I think you need them more than me right now. -

- Daisy… -

- Come on, you'll both have a great time, believe me. – Daisy said.

Misty seemed doubtful. However, the idea of traveling on a deluxe cruiser, and spending some vacations at the beach with Ash was too tempting to let it slide. They both had wanted the chance to get away from everything, and everyone, to be just the two of them. And now, she had the chance to do it in her hands.

- I think Ash is still awake. Why don't you go and talk to him about this? – Daisy said, while standing up. – Well, I'll go sleep now. Goodnight. -

- Hey, Daisy, wait. – Misty stopped her right before she had crossed the door.

- Yes? -

- I… thank you. I don't know how I'll repay you for this. -

- Well, just don't say I never do anything for you, little sis. – Daisy replied with a smile, giving her a wink before leaving the room and closing the door.

Misty looked at the tickets and the pamphlet. After thinking about it for a while, se decided to talk to Ash about it. If she could enjoy their free time before departing for the training with Lorelei, maybe it would be much easier to bear. And she thought it would be better to apologize to him, since the more she waited, the worse it would be, and she really didn't want to be mad at him, let alone for something as foolish as that. She stood up from her bed, put on her sleeping shoes and left the room, going towards the guest room Ash was occupying. Hesitating for a moment, she opened the door carefully, and took a peek inside.

Ash was sitting on the head of his bed, reading Pokémon magazines by the light of the lamp. Pikachu was curled up on the other end, and if Misty hadn't seen him breathing, he could easily have been mistaken for a plush doll. Ash took a moment to notice she was there.

- Hey. – She greeted with a timid smile as she entered the room.

- Feeling in better mood now? – Ash asked, as she sat in front of him on the bed.

- Yeah, I'm calm now. – Misty said. – Ash, I… I'm really sorry I acted like that. I was so upset I yelled things I didn't mean to. –

- Ah, don't worry. – He said, leaving aside the magazine. He wasn't angry at Misty, which was a huge relief to her. – I shouldn't have insisted so much if you didn't want to talk about it. -

- About that, Ash. – Misty finally decided to be sincere. – I thought about it, and I decided to accept Lorelei's offer. You were right; this is a chance I cannot let pass. -

- And what took you so long to decide? – Ash asked, feeling happy inside that, for a change, Misty admitted he was right.

- Hmm… - Misty felt really uncomfortable to admit it. However, recalling what had happened on Ash's last birthday, when she decided not to mind anymore what he would think of her, she built up courage and admitted. – It's just that… six months away from here … away from you... – She blushed in the last part. Ash however seemed to understand what she wanted to say, even if she didn't complete the statement. She was worried about what could happen in that time. – But well, sometimes you need to make sacrifices, right? – She said, giving him her best forced smile.

Ash leaned towards her, and very carefully, put his arms around her and embraced her. Misty closed her eyes and remained silent, returning the embrace, while he caressed her hair gently. So it was that, she was worried about being away from him for so long, and he couldn't blame her. That time they had spent together had been the happiest of their lives, and she didn't want to leave it behind.

- What made you change your mind? – Ash suddenly asked, breaking the silence.

- Daisy. – Misty said. – She told me I should accept. It's an important step to achieve my dreams. But also… -

- Also what? – Ash asked.

- We still have some time before I have to leave. – Misty said smiling. – And so we can enjoy it at full, Daisy gave me these. – Misty showed him the cruiser tickets.

- What's that? -

- Tickets for a deluxe cruiser departing from Vermillion. – She explained. – She thought that, maybe… we just need a small getaway vacation. She also mentioned a five-star hotel on Cinnabar Island, all expenses covered. – She handed him the pamphlet. – Take a look at it, what do you think? -

- This looks really good. – Ash smiled. – For some time, I had wanted to take a small break from everything, just the two of us. When are we leaving? -

- Daisy said the cruiser departs from Vermillion port next week. – Misty said. – I'll say, we should start packing our stuff so we can go tomorrow first thing in the morning. -

- And what about Lorelei? -

- I'll call her as soon as I can. I'll tell her I'll go with her for training. -

- Then there's nothing else to discuss. – Ash said. – I'm making my baggage right now. –

- Me too. OK, have a good night. – Misty said giving him a quick kiss on the lips, and leaving the room.

Ash couldn't believe. Summer vacations, just him and Misty! He couldn't ask for anything better. He got up from the bed by jumping, unwillingly awaking Pikachu.

- Pi? Pikapi pikachu? – The rodent asked, as he saw Ash packing his stuff in a hurry.

- We gotta pack our stuff, Pikachu. – Ash said. – We're leaving tomorrow. -

- Pika? – The rodent stared at him, sort of confused.

- Misty got some tickets for a deluxe cruiser. – Ash explained. – We're going on a vacation to Cinnabar Island, how's that? -

- Pi? – The electric mouse took a moment to fully assimilate it, but he then seemed really cheerful. - Pikachu! -

- I know, it'll be fantastic. –

Ash was really excited, just with the thought of being able to spend a vacation on the beach with Misty. The trainer almost drooled when he imagined Misty in bikini with the beach as background. It was true that she had a huge swimsuit collection at home, but he rarely had the chance of seeing her wearing them. She generally only used them when she made her daily 6000 meters in the pool to stay in shape, and she did that either too early, before Ash had waken up, or when he went out to town. Ash thought Misty was being a bit stingy with that, especially because over the years she had developed a very beautiful and slender figure, and it annoyed him that she didn't let him admire it often (and she still had failed to do it that very day, even though she had suggested it early in the morning). He used to think she did it on purpose, and he had to admit that, even though she looked really beautiful with her mermaid costume, she still leave a bit to the imagination (not to mention that now they only performed that show once a month). Well, what could he do when his hormones were all frenzy for his girlfriend?

Days later, at the Vermillion port…

Said and done, Ash and Misty had made their way to Vermillion, to board the cruiser. While waiting at the port for their ship to arrive, Ash seemed to be a little apprehensive. He remembered very well the last time he had boarded a deluxe cruiser in Vermillion, once inside they were attacked by Rocket grunts who were undercover in the ship, with the intention of stealing from all the passengers their Pokémon, and there was a huge riot in the middle of battles, which ended with the ship following the same fate as the Titanic: sinking in the first trip before even arriving to its destination. Ash though that it had been a really close call, they had barely escaped alive. Then again, should something happen, with all the things he had gone through since he became a Pokémon trainer, he was pretty much used to take risks, and survive them. He was not completely useless, no way.

- What time is it? – Misty asked. The girl was wearing clothes fit for summer, sandals, shorts similar to the ones she used to wear on her first journeys, held up by suspenders, a red top and a yellow open blouse, aside from a pair of sunshades Daisy had lent her, although at the moment they had them hanging from her top. This time she didn't bring her Spheal bag, she was carrying a larger bag so as to carry more beach items, and still leaving room for the souvenirs she intended to buy once they had reached their destination.

- It's 11:40. – Ash said, checking his Platinum Edition Pokétch, the same he had received from Max and May in his last birthday. Ash was also wearing summer clothes: dark blue, knee-length pants, white tennis shoes and a sleeveless shirt, sky blue with a white line in the middle. – What time does the ship arrive? -

- Right at midday and it'll be departing at 1:00. – Misty said, checking her tickets. – We've got some time to have lunch before it arrives, what do you say? -

- Sounds good. – Ash agreed. – There's a good place over there, you get us a table and I'll bring back our Pokémon. -

- OK. -

Misty went towards a small cafe, while Ash went to the Pokémon Center. Misty took an empty table on the outer side, which gave them a splendid view of the vast sea before them. With the sun on its highest point, the water sparkled like stars, it was really beautiful. Misty stared at it for a while, with a dreamy expression. She remembered when they had just begun their journey together, on one point she attempted (futilely) to tempt Ash into going to Vermillion City instead of Cerulean (she didn't want to see her sisters back then), mentioning "neat Pokémon, the yachts pulling into the harbor, and a spot way up on a hill where you can sit and watch a romantic sunset". While at the moment she was only doing it so as to not to see her sisters, maybe deep inside the idea of watching a romantic sunset with her was not completely unlikeable. Who could have guessed she would be able to do it many years later?

- Good morning, may I take your order? – A waitress approached her.

- Eh, yeah, but… I'm waiting for someone. I'd like to see the menu, meanwhile. -

The waitress left two menus on the table, and went off to attend other customers. Misty took one, and began reading the list. Some of the meals were quite expensive, and even though she had plenty of Money she didn't want to spend too much before reaching her destination. She was planning on taking many souvenirs on that trip, and even more since Ash could help her in carrying them. Misty laughed at her own idea; she was starting to sound like Daisy.

- Well, well, just look whom I've found here. – She heard a male voice a few minutes after she had sit. Misty peeked over the menu, to see a Young man with short, auburn hair and black eyes who stared at her with a lot of interest. It took her a moment to recognize him: it was Rudy, the Gym Leader of Trovita Island. – Long time no see, Misty. -

- Rudy… hey. – Misty greeted, not quite cheerful.

- Is it occupied? – He asked, pointing at the chair in front of her.

- As a matter of fact, it is. – Misty said.

- Do you mind if I sit until your companion arrives? – Rudy asked, but he sat before she could give him an answer. Misty just shrugged. – Time surely flies by. You look much more beautiful than the last time I saw you. -

- Thanks… - Misty blushed, and turned her face around.

- What are you doing around here? – Rudy inquired.

- I'm on vacations. – Misty simply replied. – I needed to get away from everything. -

- I see. Would you like to eat something, on me? – Rudy offered. – I'm just stopping by, but if you want… -

- Thanks, but no thanks. – Misty replied. – I'm just stopping by myself; I'll take the ship at one o'clock once I'm done here. And I've told you, I'm waiting for someone. -

- That's the most common excuse. – Rudy said, he apparently didn't buy it.

- I'm serious, Rudy. The chair's occupied. – Misty insisted, sensing Rudy's intentions. – If Ash sees me here with you, it'll not be funny. -

- Ash? – Rudy's smirk vanished from his face. – What do you mean…? -

- *Ahem*… - They suddenly heard a clearing throat. Rudy looked behind him, and he saw none other than Ash Ketchum. The trainer from Pallet Town had his Pikachu on his shoulder, and was carrying Misty's Azumarrill in his arms. The aquatic bunny jumped off of Ash's arms to go back to his owner, who received him happily. Ash seemed to have a forced smile in his face. – Hope I'm not interrupting anything. It's been a while… Rudy. – Ash almost spat the boy's name.

- Hey… Ash. – Rudy replied, still not standing up from his seat. Apparently he had not fully assimilated the situation.

- Do you mind? – Ash asked. – Misty and I want to eat together, so, if you could… -

- Huh? Sure, of course, my apologies… - Rudy stood up, leaving the seat free for Ash. – Wow, I didn't know you two… -

- Well, you know it already. – Ash interrupted. – Could you give us some privacy? Couple lunch, you understand. -

- Sure… I perfectly understand. –

Rudy wasn't completely pleased with the way Ash shooed him, but he left, and sat at another table, which was quite far from the couple. He seemed to have his hopes up when he saw Misty sitting alone, but from the look of things, Ash had beaten him long ago. He had heard some rumors around, although he hadn't taken them too seriously. Ash, in turn, seemed to be much more displeased to see him. He had not forgotten the attentions he gave to Misty when they went to Trovita Island. Ash gave him a fulminating glare before taking the menu.

- Jealous much? – Misty suddenly asked, smiling.

- Maybe just a bit. – Ash admitted.

- And why is that? – Misty asked.

- As if you didn't know. -

- I tried to get him to leave before you came. – She said. – He's handsome and all, but… Rudy's not my type. Although, maybe, if I had met him before meeting you… -

- Hmph, I never liked him. – Ash interrupted, he didn't need to know how that would end. – The irony is that, looking back now… I think it was him who made me realize. –

- Realize what? – Misty asked.

- That I was very lucky. – Ash answered, regaining his usual good mood. – What he meant was that I was very lucky to have you with me. And he was right. -

- Well, you took quite a few years to realize. – Misty replied with a slight aversion.

- Better late than never, right? – Was Ash's response.

Misty smiled, taking a look at the sea. Ash did the same.

- You know something? I had never noticed how beautiful this place is. – He said.

- I know. – She said.

- OK, let's check out the menu. Do you want something too, Pikachu? – Ash asked the rodent on his shoulder.

- Pikachu. – The electric mouse placed himself on the table, and pointed with his paw what he liked.

- OK, you got it. – Ash said. - Waitress! -

The waitress responded immediately, took their orders, and a few minutes later she brought their lunch. The couple had a very good meal, although every now and then, Ash took a peek towards where Rudy was, as if he was warning him "don't even think about it" or something similar. Rudy also looked at Misty every now and then, he couldn't help it, but he looked away every time Ash glared at him. It was clear that Ash was quite defensive with Misty. Well, that was not something new, seeing that previously he had been like that every time a boy tried to get close to her her. Of course that, back then, he was way too young and immature to understand it.

The couple finished eating their lunch, and after paying the bill they left to board their ship. For some reason, Rudy followed them, from afar, once they left the café and went back to the port. He saw they were a very happy couple, and he couldn't help but feel a tad envious. Of course, he knew very well that Misty's heart had made its choice long ago, and he had no rights to oppose to that. Anyway, when he noticed Misty boarded the ship first, by herself, something inside made him to approach Ash, who decided to stay a bit longer on the harbor before departing.

- Hey, Ash. -

- Huh? – The boy turned around when he heard his name. – Ah, it's you. – Ash's voice and expression did not completely discard hostility, something Rudy seemed to notice.

- Hey, I know you don't like me, but we don't have to be enemies. – Rudy said, making a defensive gesture. – I know when I lose, and from what I've seen, you beat me here long ago. -

- Hmm, I suppose. – Ash replied, his factions softened a bit.

- How long have you two been together? – Rudy asked.

- About five months ago, since my last birthday, to be exact. – Ash said, making emphasis on the part mentioning his birthday.

- Wow, did she offer herself as a gift to you? – Rudy asked again, in a tone sounding, half-joking, half-mischievous.

- Something like that. – Ash replied. – She sang a song she wrote herself for me. -

- So Misty's a singer too? – Rudy said with interest. – Wow, you really are lucky, I envy you. -

- I didn't realize in that moment, so many years ago. – Ash replied. – But now, I understand what you meant. -

- You better be careful with her, Ash. You know, you don't want that, from a moment to another, somebody more attractive steals her from you and you end up all alone. – Rudy commented as a suggestion.

- Like you, for example? – Ash replied, crossing his arms and staring at him inquisitively. Rudy just shrugged. – You wish. I better go, Misty's waiting for me. Later. -

Ash turned around and boarded the ship to meet with Misty. Once on deck, Misty asked him what he was talking about with Rudy down there, to which Ash replied that "it was nothing important". Misty giggled, although, seeing that he had not gotten into a fight with Rudy, she assumed it was nothing to worry about. The two went to occupy their cabin, while they waited for the ship to depart.

A bit later, the ship's chimney began smoking, and the siren wailed, as the ship was weighing anchors. The S.S. Aqua Gates departed towards Cinnabar Island. Ash and Misty went out to deck to enjoy the sea breeze.

- Aahhh, this feels so good. – Misty said.

- So, how's that hotel Daisy mentioned? – Ash asked.

- According to the pamphlet, it must be good. – Misty answered. – I hope it is. Blaine's inn was not too bad, but even so, if we're going on vacations, I'd rather stay at a more elegant place. -

Ash agreed with her. He recalled the last time he had visit Cinnabar Island, it was a real odyssey to find a place to stay, the island was completely full of tourists, and on top of that having to solve the riddle puzzle Blaine had set in order to find his gym hidden inside the island's volcano (and actually, it was Misty who managed to solve the riddles). In any case, right now he didn't have to worry about gym battles or riddles. The only thing in his mind, for a chance, was enjoying his time with Misty. That was all that mattered.

Misty, on the other hand, still couldn't shake the feeling as, once those vacations were over, she and Ash would have to go separate ways again. Even if it was only temporary, and even though they had spent long periods without seeing each other, this time it would be much harder. Because, now, he was more than just her best friend. He was her boyfriend, her love, a part of her, a part of her life. Misty wasn't really worried that, during her absence, Ash could go off on small adventures or something like that with other girls, no, she knew him better than anyone (sometimes even more than himself), and she knew perfectly that he would never betray her, she trusted him, and he trusted her. More the separation by itself, rather than what could happen in that time, was what made her feel so anxious.

- Hey, Ash… - She suddenly asked, breaking the silence.

- Yes? – Ash turned around.

- Once I go to the Sevii Islands… -

- Forget about it for now, will ya? – Ash said.

- But Ash… -

- Shhh. Misty, don't think about that right now. – Ash silenced her, placing his finger on her mouth. – We're on vacations. We're gonna have fun; don't go crashing it with worries. -

- Yeah, you're right… - Misty said. – We still have plenty of time. Five days on the cruiser, and then, two weeks at Cinnabar Island. -

- Have you decided yet what we're gonna do? – Ash asked.

- Well… there are plenty of interesting activities at the Landmark Hotel. – Misty replied, taking another look to the pamphlet. – And there are plenty souvenir shops. This might be a good chance to increase my swimsuit collection. -

- Which you barely let me see. – Ash commented as a suggestion.

- Don't you have enough with having me as a mermaid? – Misty inquired.

- That's just once a month, besides… - Ash blushed a bit, but he let it out. - … you still leave a bit to my imagination. -

- When we traveled together you never seemed to be very interested in my body. – Misty said, placing her hands on her waist, and giving him a defiant glare. Ash, who seeing her posing like that could almost swear she looked sexy, glared back at her the same way.

- That was because, back then, you were just a skinny, flat-chested girl. – Ash replied, with the evident intention of provoking her, which he did.

- Say what? – Misty had a twitch on her lip, and a small bulging vein protruded on her temple.

- Although… you had a cute butt even then. – Ash continued, giving a few pats on said part of Misty's body.

- Hey! – Misty got away from Ash's hand. – Since when have you become that much of a pervert, eh? -

- I don't know, maybe since your body grew decent enough. – Ash replied, chuckling.

- Now you've got your ticket, I'll show you! -

- Hahaha, you'll have to catch me first, flat-chested girl! -

Misty dropped Azumarrill, and Pikachu fell off of Ash's shoulder just as he ran off, with the redhead raising her fists in the air. The two Pokémon saw their trainer running around like a pair of children, and even despite Misty yelling at Ash for his jokes about her "flat chest" (which was actually no longer flat at all) it was clear that she enjoyed the little game as much as he did, and they both smiled to each other. Some things never changed, and the relationship between Ash and Misty was no exception, either just as best friends or as a couple, the two of them were the same deep inside.

No doubt, these would be some very interesting vacations…

To be continued…

Author's notes:

What's up people? Well, I had been pondering on writing a sequel to "The best birthday gift" for some time. So I asked my good friend and fellow PokéShipper MajinLu for help, so we could write a story together. This was originally going to be another oneshot, but over time it grew too long on us (even for me), so we agreed on splitting it in three parts (and also because I was dying to upload it). It's really fun working with her, I have to say, she has great ideas (whoever has read her stories or seen her fanarts on DeviantArt will agree with me). We already have some advances on the other two parts, but we are still missing a few intermediate scenes. She agreed on writing them herself, but I'll see what I can do to help her, so I'm asking you, please have patience with us.

See ya soon!