Disclaimer: I do not own Pokemon or any of the characters in the series. This is a work of FICTION, meaning that it has no actual truth to it. If you actually take offense at any of the material contained herein, thinking that it is against the nature of the characters, then you are a very, very sad person. Anyway, sit back and enjoy.

All Along

How long has it been? Days, months, years have passed since that day-the day we first met. In the beginning, I thought nothing much of you, merely as an annoyance tagging along because of some dumb obsession. As our journey unfolded, however, I came to realize that you are much more than you appear. What a fool I was, that I did fully appreciate who you are.

At first glance, you were bossy, self-centered, and stubborn, following us from a debt that will most likely never be paid. You acted like a child constantly, always up for a pointless argument. You took offense when it would have been more appropriate to walk away, leading us into trouble time and time again. You alone pushed my nerves to the breaking point more times than I care to remember. What an idiot I was.

Throughout our adventure together, we learned not only about the world around us, but each other as well. The three of us formed a bond that has withstood even the most overbearing odds. We three fought together for our ideals, and for the protection of others, loved ones and complete strangers alike. As time went on, you showed your true self to me. Your seemingly impossible exterior masks an inner beauty that I have never known. How could I have been so stupid?

I never gave any thought to the concept of you and me- not merely as traveling companions, but two people in love. My eyes were blind to the truth. All this time, the one I loved was right beside me, facing the same trials, braving the same perils. I see you now, asleep on the grass next to the campfire. The flickering flames dance off your features, and once more I marvel at how special you truly are. The color of the fire matches that of your warm hair. The dim light shines off your face, illuminating the most beautiful face I have ever laid eyes on. As sleep overtakes me, I say the words in my mind for what seems like the millionth time: "I love you, Misty." Closing my eyes, my last thoughts are of you gazing at me with those shining sea-blue eyes and saying in your gentle, sweet voice.

"I love you too, Brock."



Author's Note: Despite what you may think, I am not a gymshipper. In fact, I am not a shipper of any kind. This was written simply because I read some very good gymshipper fan fiction and felt like writing this. By the way, if you get the chance, read the works written by my brother, Umaro. One of his works, written for Card Captor Sakura, was the inspiration for the above writing style. Well, that about wraps it up. If you feel so inclined, please write a review for this piece-preferably a good one. Lates.