Prologue

THE PROPOSAL

"Ay me! For aught that I could ever read,
Could ever hear by tale or history,
The course of true love never did run smooth."

— Lysander, Act 1, Scene 1
A Midsummer Night's Dream

Heavy snow befell the busy streetscapes of Hearthome City. It was unusually cold this winter night on the eighteenth of December and in spite of the weather as Christmas was but a few days away, stores were open at late hours and traffic was heavy. The scent of pine, roasted chestnuts, and peppermint chocolate filled the air. People came out about the stores, carrying boxes and paper bags filled with would-be presents for friends and family.

A few blocks away from the famed Lila Donohue designer boutique was a smaller store that showcased clothes, handbags and accessories of crisp colours and yet playful sophistication. From the other side of the glass door, a young woman with long navy locks flipped the sign from open to closed. Emerging out into the snow-filled streets and inserting the key into the doorknob to finally close her store for the day, an unexpected chilly breeze whooshed by to greet her. Shivering, she tugged on to the collars of her red trench-coat and adjusted her scarf, letting out a warm breath before trudging on her way.

It was thirty past eight. Dawn Berlitz gave her watch a quick glimpse before rushing off to her car, parked at the back of the building. Sitting down the cold leather seat, she felt her cheeks warm in fluster as she started to rev up the engine. Being a renowned Poke-Stylist, she rarely had time to spend quality time with family, friends, even Pokemon. She was always on the move—creating new designs, managing the deliveries, attending fashion shows, having photoshoots, and even doing beauty commercials.

Though she had planned to close her boutique by ten, this evening, however, was deemed a most special night. Not because it was almost Christmas; it was her anniversary with her, quite official, boyfriend of four years—Paul Rebolledo.

Earlier this morning, Dawn was greeted with a call from Paul, asking if she was available to meet him that same evening in one of their favourite local spots, a small café just by the corner street of their shared condominium. According to Paul, he wanted to have a simple celebration over some coffee and cake. Years before the two began dating, the local café was their typical meeting place. While it was Dawn's pick-me-up before her work at the boutique, it was Paul's morning peace before some rigorous daily training. Albeit the café was not an unusual place where most of their time was spent, it has an underlying significance for the pair.

Dawn eyed the small digital number on the dashboard. 08:56 PM. It was going to be nine o'clock soon, and the winter winds seemed to have blown harder. A red light shone brightly on the stoplight. Dawn slowed her car down to a full stop. A low buzz came from her cellphone. It was a text from Paul.

Where are you?

She was about to reply when her phone died out. "Oh, damn it," she cussed before tossing the device aside and accelerating once the stoplight shone a green. Looking over the horizon, she released a held sigh as saw the familiar lights of the café.

"She's taking a while…" The low voice came from a shadowed figure who stood in the center of the dimmed café. Though his stance was firm, the agitation and impatience, and even perhaps some hints of worry, were visible in his body language. Recognised as the Sinnoh Champion and a respected Pokémon Trainer from across the world, Paul Rebolledo planned this particular anniversary date to be extraordinarily special.

Twas the night he had finally found the courage to urge himself to do what he considered he should have done sooner before—ask Dawn to marry him.

The interior was dimmed and the bright sign that shone outside was the only light turned on. Paul had requested the assistance of the entire staff with the preparations of his proposal. Being a regular customer, as well as the Sinnoh Champion, helped convince the café staff to happily comply.

Not being the romantic type and too proud to ask help from his brother on how he should propose, Paul pathetically resorted to a 'love guru' from a television show.

"It should be witty," one adviser from a TV show commented. "With some kind of strategic charm to it. That would leave it interesting!"

His companion spoke up. "It must be romantic! But not too overwhelming. It should be memorable for the both of you."

Considering some specifics from the advice, Paul decided to push through with the idea suggesting something simple, yet not cliché, and with one extraordinary surprise. This should be the trick to make it seem witty, strategic, romantic, and memorable.

Paul wore the white scarf and jet-black coat he had received from Dawn the day he battled for the title of Champion four years ago. It was truly one of his favourite gifts from her. Clutched on one of his hand were three yellow tulips, and on the other, his phone. Two of his Pokémon, Weavile and Froslass, were by his side. Some of the café staff had hidden behind the counter where while the others waited silently in the backroom and kitchen.

Seven minutes past nine. It was getting quite late, and the snow storm seemed to have gotten worse. Paul felt a tinge of worry begin to rise but immediately shook it off knowing Dawn was strong enough to brave such blizzards.

The tiny silver bell of the café door suddenly jingled, the light chime beckoning everyone in the room that someone has just entered the café. The staff gave off a silent gasp and whispered amongst themselves, hiding their heads lower.

Paul clenched his fist, tightening his grip on the yellow tulips. He closed his eyes as he monitored his breathing. Froslass glanced to her trainer, feeling the heat from his body seemingly rise. The thought of delaying his proposal grew all the more enticing but he quickly shook the thought away, believing Dawn deserved this. She deserves someone who would be there for her throughout a lifetime, for better or worse. Someone who could always make her smile and laugh in ways only he can. No other individual would better qualify to be her husband than him.

"Uh h-hello, is anyone here? Is the café closed?" Dawn's trembling voice was heard throughout the darkness as she spoke to no one in particular. "I am so sorry if I came at this time! I saw that your sign's still on and was supposed to meet someone, but it looks like he—! Uh, never mind. I-I'll be taking my leave now."

One by one, red, yellow, and purple lights from small electric candles suddenly lit up the room. Dawn watched as each candle begin to glow; from the floor, to the tables, and even the walls, each candle was strategically yet artistically placed, emitting a warm and romantic atmosphere.

The young woman quite nervously gripped on her sling bag. "...What's going on here?" she muttered. Shifting her gaze about the room, she saw a smiling Froslass float towards her. The white Snow Land Pokémon glistened like diamonds as the lights shone on her. She held up a paw, gesturing for their guest to follow her towards the centre of the café. Sensing that she and this Froslass were indeed acquainted, Dawn complied.

Nearing towards the centre of the café, Dawn saw a tall shadowy figure of a man. She narrowed her eyes, trying to make out whether it was someone she knew or if she would be mugged in two seconds flat. She could tell that one of his hands was holding on to something whilst the other was in his pocket.

"You're late."

Dawn smirked to herself. Now she totally knew whom she was faced against. "I'm sorry, there was this blizzard coming and I'm not exactly the fastest person to drive through snow," she rebutted, folding her hands. "You could be a little nicer to me you know. It's our fourth anniversary?"

"I know," the figure said as he stepped out from the shadows to reveal his face. He handed her the three yellow tulips to which she received with gleeful eyes. Dawn gave one of the flowers a quick sniff, smiling cheekily towards the young man in thanks. Paul's unwavering eyes locked on hers. "That still doesn't change the fact that you were late."

Dawn puffed her cheeks. "Okay, mister grumpy. I said I'm sorry, all right?" She playfully slapped the tulips against the back of his arm.

Paul could not help himself but give her a small smile. "Fine, go sit down. I want to tell you something."

Behind them, a small round table adorned with a small glass figurine was prepared. Froslass, acting as tonight's escort, gestured with her ghostly white arm towards the chairs. The two sat opposite the other, and as if on cue, a young waiter placed two cups of hot mocha lattés on their table, and one red velvet cupcake with a salted caramel whipped topping. He gave a small bow before leaving.

Dawn thanked the waiter and took a sip of her coffee. Gently dabbing her lips with the soft napkin, she then placed both hands under her chin. "So, what was it you had to tell me?" Gazing into Paul in the eyes, she smiled.

Paul awkwardly squirmed in his seat a bit. Taking in a huge breath and releasing it through his nostrils, he returned Dawn's gaze with his own. Parting his lips to speak, he abruptly moved the thought away considering he was just too nervous and his voice might tremble.

"Uh, I forgot," he said nonchalantly. He attempted to distracted himself, looking away to the candles surrounding the room and doing his best to keep his gaze averted from hers. Weavile and Froslass shared a surprised look before shooting their trainer a glance.

Dawn's loving gaze turned into a disbelieved expression. "Really, Paul? Are you serious?"

"...I will try to remember it."

The blue-haired young woman sighed. "All right, it's fine. Hey, a lot of people tend forget what they have to say sometimes, right? No need to worry!"

Staring at the cupcake, Dawn asked if Paul would like the first bite to which he insisted she have it. Gleefully taking the cupcake, she took a huge bite, making sure she had a mouthful of that delicious salted caramel whipped cream.

After just a few chews, Dawn's eyes widened in puzzlement. She felt her tongue wriggle something solid and circular within her mouth.

Looking over at Paul and mouthing an 'excuse me' with a pointed finger, she bent down and let out her tongue out, taking the solid item with two fingers. Examining it carefully, she suddenly realised what she was exactly holding was and what is was for. Placing the item on her palm, her eyes glistened in surprise as she felt herself at a loss of words. It was an engagement ring; a silver band that cradled a brilliant round diamond dappling little specks of colour over her the palm of hand.

The soft music continued to play in the background as the young woman carefully turned the ring about, its diamond center sparkled against the candle light creating a burst of magnificent colours. Dawn could not help herself but smile.

Paul remained stiff in his seat. "I remembered what I had to say now," he coughed out.

Dawn looked at him as she felt her cheeks warm up, her eyes unblinking and her smile still intact.

"Yes, Paul?"

The Pokémon Trainer closed his eyes. "We have been together for a long time—a really long time. I have met you when you were only ten years old, if that's right."

Dawn nodded without uttering a word. She kept her gaze locked at him.

"…And you have been with me through so much. You know that I've told you this a lot before, but, I would never have become Champion if it weren't for you. I would never have reached my dream."

Some heartfelt and giddy expressions could be heard from the staff and the Pokémon at the back.

Paul felt his neck warm up as he continued. "That is all I have to say, I guess. But now, I want to ask you one question…"

Dawn then abruptly straightened up and leaned forward to hear him carefully. Even the Pokémon and the café staff leaned in close enough just to hear what he had to say. Dawn parted her lips in attempt to speak until Paul narrowed his eyes and with the flashbacks of all their moments together, he softly spoke.

"…Dawn, will you marry me?"

The room grew quiet, the string and piano instrumental seemingly faded out into the background. Dawn faced down as she felt her heart speed up incredibly. Placing a hand on her chest, she felt herself quite out of breath. Slowly looking up at Paul, she gave a sheepish smile and her eyes suddenly flooded with tears that silently streamed down her pale winter-white cheeks.

Paul pursed his lips, thinking that maybe it was too soon. "You know, it is alright with me if you think it's too soon or—!"

"No."

The sound of a dropped coffee mug came from over the counter.

The Sinnoh Champion looked straight at her when she spoke those words. He need not express it but he felt the sting of rejection in his heart.

"I see…" he said, turning away to avoid looking into her eyes.

Dawn let out a giggle which eventually blared into laughter. There was an awkward and puzzling atmosphere. Now Paul, the Pokémon, and the café staff were all confused.

The young blue-haired woman then took the engagement ring and stood from her seat. Walking over to Paul, she held on to his broad shoulders, requesting him to stand up as well. Paul, despite the confusion, obliged. Taking one of his warm hand with her own, Dawn took the ring and placed it on his palm. She then looked up at him with loving eyes and a tender smile.

"What I meant was… no, I don't think it is too soon," she clarified. "The timing's actually quite perfect."

Paul, and even the others, felt quite relieved after hearing this. But they were all still confused as to why she 'returned' the ring.

Sensing the confusion, Dawn chuckled once more and faced her boyfriend as to explain. "When you propose to someone, you have to get down on one knee and have them wear the ring." A smile then graced her lips. "But if you all need more clarification… Then yes! Yes, I would love to marry you, Paul."

Loud cheers and congratulations came from the café staff and the Pokémon. Piplup and Lopunny jumped out from their Pokéballs to join in the merriment. Everyone was incredibly happy, most particularly and especially the blushing bride-to-be.

Tapping on his side, Lopunny signaled Paul to get down on one knee and have Dawn wear the ring. Paul disliked the idea of having to get down on one knee so he straightforwardly asked Dawn if he could just slip the ring on her finger, to which she fairly agreed to. As his warm hand took her soft colder one, he delicately slipped the silver engagement band in her finger. Admiring it once again from a distance, Dawn felt her cheeks flush.

Paul gave a small yet genuine smile. He had never felt this type of happiness (and relief) before; it was different from the happiness when he had defeated Cynthia and from when he had received the title of Champion. It was as if he was not only happy for himself, but for Dawn as well. This feeling was indeed new to him, yet deemed it should be something he may get used to, now more than ever, that he has proposed to her.

"Dawn," he reached out to her, staring once more into those glistening vivid blue orbs.

"Yes… Paul?" Her voice shook, not with nervousness but with an overwhelming sense of joy and love.

"…I hope you are happy. And that you will be happy with me."

Closing the gap between them and slightly tiptoeing to reach his face, Dawn tenderly placed her soft lips against his. The two rarely kissed, but when they did, the magic was undeniable. All kinds of memories they had with one another resurfaced, synchronizing their thoughts as though they were one.

The loud cheers from the café staff and Pokémon seemed to have faded out into the background. All that the Dawn and Paul could focus on was each other.

After they parted, Paul thought he had heard Dawn whisper, "I love you". Nonetheless even if she did not do so, he was happy.

A/N: I highly recommend reading "Lock and Key" by Down-the-Line prior to this story. It would shed light on how Dawn and Paul's relationship developed throughout time. Thanks!