Howdy all! Sorry it has been so long! I have my reasons though, mainly because of family problems and illness. Anyway, I will keep updating even if it takes a little while (bear with me okay?)

Anyhoo, the plot, yeah, last time it ran away with itself, BUT everyone seemed to like it so... it's not so bad. This time it's the carnival! :) Hooray! Awww, I have waited ages to write this, and of course more fluffyness for our boys.

Also, the Pneumonia story, I am writing from experience. My Grandmother died of Pneumonia and everything that occurs in this story happened to her. It is just easier to relate to.

I shall stop rambling and let you guys read the chapter. Ciao!


Chapter Nine: Say you'll be with me, for I know I cannot bear it all alone

Walking into that white washed room for the second time this week really tested my sanity. I felt like I was walking towards my doom and I knew that today was not going to be great.

I stood near the door, almost frozen to the spot and watched as Eevee and Pikachu leapt onto the bed. They too looked just as sad as we did.

Seeing Mom so lifeless, helpless... made me want to scream out in pain.

Misty and Brock's expressions said it all to me, they too were just as horrified as I was.

"Oh my goodness!" Misty exclaimed, placing her hand to her mouth in shock.

Yes, it was shocking to see my Mom like this, covered in tubes and wires. It was just not her.

I swallowed hard, wanting to go over to her and just hold her hand, but it looked so fragile that I was frightened to even touch her.

"This is a sadness..." Brock remarked, standing beside Misty, who looked like she was going to break down into tears. I prayed that she did not.

Gary stood beside me, hiding his expression from my view at the moment, but I sensed he was just as morose as I was.

Mom... please, you have to fight this. You have to get better. I don't know what I would do if you... if you...

"Ash?"

Gary's soft voice filled my ears, snapping me out of my melancholy state of mind.

I turned to face him and nodded weakly. He gave me a small smile which lightened my spirits a little. Just seeing that small glimmer of hope in him made me gain the much needed courage to get through this tough time.

I felt his hand gently brush against mine, perhaps in an attempt to hold it. I knew he would not do that though, not with an audience.

It was understandable.

"Ash I am so sorry," Misty muttered to me, still looking as if she was going to cry. I forced a smile, not wanting her to see me as a weak and pathetic human being. Even if it killed me to see my Mom like this I needed to remain strong, for both of us.

"She will get better Misty," I assured, almost trying to assure myself in the process.

Was I right though? Would she actually get better?

Whilst we were all lost in our own thoughts we hardly noticed the Doctor and two of his associates come rushing into the room and crowd around her bed. This alerted me, making me panic.

What was wrong? Did something happen?

"What's happening?" I called out, hearing the machine beeping violently and the Doctors rushing around like headless chickens. The main Doctor looked to us and frowned;

"The results show that one of her lungs has collapsed, we need to start giving her physiotherapy to try and strength it so she can breath on her own."

My heart sank.

I felt like my legs were just going to snap underneath my weight.

My Mom's lung had collapsed?

That meant she wasn't breathing as good as she was meant to, this obviously was bad news.

Misty tried to stop herself from crying but I knew she would eventually, hearing things like this would obviously make anyone upset.

"Will she be alright?" Brock asked, trying to find out as much information as possible. As the Doctor checked the oxygen mask for a second time he gave an indecisive shrug.

"We are unsure, we will know more when she has gone through the physiotherapy and we can ascertain the severity of the collapsed lung. We may be able to inflate it once again if it gets stronger,"

I just could not speak, all words were just becoming a strangled mess in my throat, and all I wanted to do right now was collapse, preferably with Gary supporting me.

Right now I needed him here for me, in anyway possible.

"Why has her lung collapsed?" Gary continued, also asking questions, questions that I myself could not find the strength to ask.

"The Pneumonia has created a lot of fluid in her lungs, this has caused one of them to collapse so she cannot breathe fully on her own. She needs help from the machine to breathe properly and to get enough oxygen to her vital organs"

No... this was not happening! This was a nightmare, a total nightmare. Mom wasn't meant to go through this! She did not deserve any of this, it was wrong. She was such an amazing Mom, it seems unfair for all the bad things to happen to her.

Again I felt Gary's hand brush against mine gently. I guess he was trying to show me that he was here for me and supporting me. Of course I knew that and I was forever grateful.

As the Doctors rushed around the main one beckoned to us;

"I suggest you leave until we can be sure of the severity of her condition, she is very weak right now and needs lots of fluids and rest."

I nodded weakly, feeling useless. There was nothing I could do that would help her right now, I just felt like I was just watching this illness drain her of life.

It was awful.

"What about the Pokemon? Can they stay here and look after her?" I asked, trying to stop my voice from breaking completely.

The Doctor nodded and gave us a kind sincere smile. Of course I did not see it like that, but the good thing was that Eevee and Pikachu would look after her while we were gone.

Everyone nodded and we made our way to the door. A part of me was reluctant to leave her all alone in the room with them, even though they were taking good care of her I knew she needed me.

She always did.


When we left the room we stood outside trying to gain our bearings. It was horrible to hear that news so soon after being rushed into the hospital. I had convinced myself that there was a possibility she would be a lot better by today, but I was wrong.

"Hey Ash, lets go and grab a coffee from the vending machine," Brock suggested, snapping me out of my daze. It did not seem like a bad idea, perhaps a strong drink would help me out right now.

"Yeah, okay," I muttered weakly.

Gary's eyes followed me eagerly, watching my every move.

He must have been worried about me, after all, he knew how much she meant to me, sorry... how much she MEANS to me.

As I walked with Brock past Misty and Gary I was almost positive I heard Misty utter something to him. The only words I could make out were 'back off' 'bad news' and my name.

Turning away I decided to allow them time to talk, even though they wouldn't.

Well come on, Misty was hardly Gary's biggest fan. She could not stand him, but I never knew why. Maybe it was because of all the shit he put me through when we were kids, all that stuff about 'Gary was here, Ash is loser'. Silly really.

As Brock and I walked down the hall to the vending machine I could feel the whiteness of the walls draining the life out of me. I was beginning to feel nauseous.

All I wanted was to get out of here.

"Ash, are you alright?" Brock asked, as we stopped by the machine. I nodded, not quite sure I actually was.

"Yeah, I am fine,"

"It is understandable to be upset you know, especially after receiving news like that," He issued, shifting around in his pockets for some coins for the machine.

Yeah, I knew that. I think it was just sinking in, and that fact I was somewhat reluctant to believe it.

"I know," I murmured.

Placing the coins in the machine he continued;

"Also, I want to talk to you about you and Gary,"

My eyes widened a little as those words spilled from his mouth. I did not think it was that obvious that I had a crush on him, but then again it wouldn't take a genius to figure it out.

"What about us?" I returned.

Brock turned to me, that kind look on his face as usual. The look that said 'come on now Ash, you know what I mean'.

Well, of course I did, I was just being difficult.

"You know what you told me about having dream sex with him?"

I nodded, watching as he turned back and started pressing buttons on the machine.

"Is that because you like him?"

Wow, it must be really obvious. Even so, I feel guilty, not for liking Gary but the fact I have just been given awful news about Mom and yet he still manages to make my heart thunder. Is that even normal?

Looking downwards at the floor I swallowed hard.

Brock did not judge me when I confessed about the whole dream sex thing, but would he still be my friend if he knew I fancied Gary? Wouldn't that make me... Gay?

"Well I..." I started, hearing the whirring noise of the machine as it started making the coffee for both of us.

"Yes?"

"I... guess I kind of do," I answered, feeling annoyed at myself.

Kind of? Oh, no way was it just kind of, it was definitely, more than anyone I have ever met before. I could not just come out with that though.

Brock turned to me and I half expected a look of disgust, but it wasn't. It was a smile, a genuine smile.

"You know, it might not be a bad thing having him around then. If Gary makes you feel better about this whole situation and makes you happy then that's all I need to hear,"

He turned back to assist the machine and I just looked at him, completely dumbfounded.

He was okay with it? As in, totally okay? No Gay puns or jokes, just okay?

A part of me leapt in joy at the relief of knowing he was okay with me liking Gary, but I knew that Misty would not take the news so graciously. She hated him as it was.

This whole admitting I am Gay thing, is really weird. I mean, I don't know if I am, I only like Gary so... what does that mean? And it's not like I love him or anything, I just kind of like him... yeah... kind of.

As I snapped out of my daze once again Brock handed me a polystyrene cup filled with hot coffee. This scene reminded me of this morning, when Gary had made me coffee without even asking me. It was such a nice gesture, and it was incredibly rare that Gary would be so thoughtful.

"You're not... disgusted?" I managed to ask, holding the cup in my hands. I watched as my old companion chuckled slightly.

"Don't be silly Ash, why would I be? Just because you like someone it doesn't mean I will think any differently of you. In fact, it is a pleasant change to hear you like someone"

I wanted to smile at his kindness, I really did, but I just could not. The news about my Mom was just a dead weight in my heart and in my mind which I could not get rid of.

I slowly took a sip of the hot liquid as we both started walking slowly back to Misty and Gary. The probability of them arguing was very high, but then again, maybe they would be able to put aside their differences and come to an understanding?

And then again I could just turn around and say I am completely straight and do not fancy Gary. Yeah... like I said, that is not going to happen.

I watched as Brock took a sip from his cup too, walking beside me. The atmosphere between us was not awkward in the slightest, in fact it was comforting to know that he was okay with it. Even if he was not throwing a party about it, he did not hate me, that was the main thing.

"Does Gary know you like him?" Brock questioned as we walked down the narrow corridor. I frowned, not really sure if he did.

"I actually don't know,"

Brock took another sip of his drink.

"How can you not know? Have you told him?"

I swallowed hard.

I was such an idiot. When I had the chance on the way here I blew it completely. And then he... kissed me. OH GOD! He kissed me! Does that mean...?

I stopped, holding the cup tightly in my hands.

Brock just stared at me, not quite knowing what to do with himself, but right now I was totally confused.

Gary kissed me and I did not push him away, did that mean he liked me? Or was he just screwing with my head again?

Turning my attention to Brock's confused expression I shrugged;

"He kissed me..." I confessed.

"Okay, so he kissed you, but neither of you have said anything?"

I shook my head, feeling guilty about it now. I wish I had said something.

Brock took another sip of coffee, looking perplexed at this situation.

"Well, I suggest you do tell him at some point. If he kissed you then.. he must have some feelings for you too. After all, you don't see me going around kissing people I don't like,"

I chuckled, taking a sip from my cup. That was a fair point to make, but then again I never saw Brock kiss anyone, regardless of whether he liked them or not.

"Yeah, I will," I assured him, continuing to walk down the corridor back to World War Three, or what would soon be.

"You should, I have seen how he has been looking at you Ash. There is definitely something there between the two of you," He stated and I smiled.

Yes there was. Now I knew that Gary was the only person through these times who would ever be able to make me smile and make it seem like all my problems would just go away. When he kissed me... I swear to God it was just so unreal. And so unexpected! Not that I am complaining...


Both of us soon made it back to the squabbling pair, Misty looking as infuriated as ever and Gary looking smug. As expected things were not great between them. I kind of felt embarrassed at the situation, I mean I liked Gary and one of my closest friends hated his guts.

It would make things awkward.

"Misty, what has happened?" I asked, seeing that seething expression scar her face. Gary folded his arms and leaned against the wall, just smiling at her. Scowling she spat,

"You better be careful around him Ash,"

I blinked.

Be careful? Gary was not dangerous in the slightest, if anything he was always there for me, so why would she say that?

"She is just jealous..." Gary remarked, watching as the red head got more and more furious. Brock sighed taking a sip of his coffee, deciding not to intervene this time.

"Why the hell would I be jealous of a stuck up pathetic excuse for a researcher?" She growled angrily at the green eyed boy, and I sighed.

I hated this, so much. Why couldn't everyone just get along and be friends?

Taking a sip from my cup and holding it tightly in my hands I started to think about what Gary had just said.

Misty... jealous of him? But why? And the fact she told me to be careful around him... what does it all mean. Man, I am so confused.

Gary moved away from the wall and stood beside me, giving me that look of his. The one that told me we needed to leave the hospital now before things got even more out of hand.

He was right of course, if we stayed here Misty would blow a fuse or something.

"Well, I think we better get going. Hanging around here waiting for news is not going to help right now," Gary said to everyone, receiving a nod from Brock and a huff from Misty.

Obviously she would disagree with everything he suggested just to be difficult.

"Yeah, he is right," Brock concluded, taking one final sip from his cup and throwing it in a nearby trash can. I followed suit and copied his actions.

At least there was something to look forward to when we left here, the carnival.

As we all walked I stayed beside Gary just in case another war was going to break out, and Brock stayed beside Misty. She had calmed down a lot though so I assumed their little spat was over for now.

Walking down the white washed corridor made my heart sink a little. This place was always going to haunt me for as long as I live, and right now they had my Mom locked up here.

Would they be able to make her better? I hoped they would, the thought of losing her was too hard to bear.

"Don't worry too much Ash, she will be fine," Gary assured me, it was like he could read my thoughts, or maybe my expressions. It must have been that obvious that I was concerned, but even so it was nice that he was being so thoughtful.

I smiled and nodded. If Gary was convinced about it then I think I should try to believe it too.

"I hope so,"

"So where are you guys heading off too after this?" Brock asked from behind us.

As we walked and got closer to the entrance of the hospital once again, I answered;

"To the carnival,"

"Well I hope you have a great time then," Brock issued kindly, smiling at both of us as we neared the door. Standing still for a moment I actually did not want to bid farewell to my friends yet. I had not seen them for so long and already it was over.

Yeah... it is a sadness, but on the other hand I get to spend all evening with Gary. Just the two of us... it's really sweet that he wanted to take me out somewhere. Wait a minute... is this like a sort of... date?


Leaving the large white building of the hospital Gary and I said our goodbyes to my old companions and we both parted ways down the road. Our destination was to head towards the carnival, which would probably be under way right now. It was the afternoon and there would probably be lots of people there already.

As we walked I sighed, feeling a little sorry for myself and still not understanding why Misty behaved like she did.

"Hey Gary, what happened between you and Misty?" I asked, looking up at the taller boy. He looked away and released a sigh, irritation scarring his face.

"It's nothing important,"

Why wouldn't he tell me? Was it that serious?

I decided to continue being annoying as ever and bombard him with questions until he gave in and told me.

"Come on Gary, you really wound her up good and proper back then. What happened?"

Pushing his hands into his pockets he answered;

"I said it doesn't matter,"

"But... it matters to me," I murmured, feeling a little sad about the fact he wasn't able to talk to me about it.

Was I really that difficult to talk to?

"Just forget about it, alright?" Gary said sternly, giving me one of his glances to shut me up. I would not let him win, not this time. Something happened and I was going to find out.

I stopped walking and just stared at him, refusing to move until I knew the reasons. Gary stopped too, sighing a little as he looked at me.

"I won't forget it, so tell me," I pursued.

"For goodness sake Ash, just give it a rest will ya?" He snapped at me, turning his head away from me so he would not have to look at me. Diverting my gaze to the floor I thought to myself.

Wow... this must be really bad if he doesn't want to tell me. I wish he would though...

Sighing I decided to allow him to win this time and started walking again. I assumed he was following me as I was ahead right now, and my childish side of my personality was allowing me to sulk.

I hated it when he did that.

As the sun continued to beat down on our bodies, making us pleasantly warm I heard Gary's voice;

"She... has feelings for you, alright?"

I stopped and turned around, looking at his face. He seemed kind of sad which was unlike him.

Did he think that I liked her back?

That was stupid, he should of known by now that the only person I had any feelings for was him and him alone.

"And... that is why you argued?" I continued.

He nodded at my question and then things were starting to make sense in my mind. The reason Misty argued with him and she hated him so much was because she liked me, and a part of her must have been aware of the fact I liked Gary back.

Maybe that was why she was so bitter towards him?

"She is annoyed at me because she thinks you don't like her that way and that it is all my fault. I have no idea how she works that out," Gary mused, now allowing his emerald eyes to trace the clouds in the sky that floated overhead.

I swallowed hard, actually just wanting to confess here and now. It would set the record straight once and for all.

"Well... I don't like her that way," I answered honestly, watching as the taller boy looked at me, scanning my face for any inclination that I was lying.

I was not, it was the truth. Misty was a great friend yes, but not girlfriend material. I had never even thought about it.

"Good," Gary returned and I just watched him.

Well, he was definitely pleased that I didn't like her, but was that because he liked me?

Oh my God, my brain is so confused right now. Okay, lemme get this straight... Misty likes me but I like Gary and he is happy because I don't like her and that I might like him? That did not help at all... lets just say it's like a love triangle or something.

After a while we decided to continue walking towards our destination, after all, standing around talking about Misty and Gary was beginning to create havoc within me. The thought of Misty liking me made me kind of feel weird, and not in the same way I feel when I am with Gary.

I suppose it is because I am not used to girls liking me.

"Won't things be awkward between the two of you now?" Gary asked as he walked beside me. I shrugged, not actually knowing if it would. It was not like I saw her everyday so perhaps it would not be so bad.

"Maybe... I don't know,"

"See, that is why I didn't want to tell you," Gary sighed, obviously feeling like he was to blame even though he wasn't.

I should have just come clean about who I liked from the start to avoid all this, but no. I was too much of a coward to even consider it.

"I am glad you did though," I said with a smile.

I really was, at least I knew the reason to why they bickered like an old married couple, even if it did make me feel terrible in the process.


Soon enough Gary and I reached the entrance to the carnival. The sights and sounds of the bustling crowd was amazing, and I breathed it all in. Colours of red, blue and yellow flashed across my eyes constantly and music blasted out amongst the gregarious crowd.

The atmosphere was terrific, and even Gary looked content.

As my eyes eagerly scanned the area I could see various stalls selling merchandise, holding competitions or selling food. There were also a few fun fair rides here which pleased me.

I had not been to a fairground for such a long time.

"This is amazing!" I exclaimed, watching everyone bustle about and enjoy themselves. At least this atmosphere was better than back at the dreaded hospital.

That place I would willingly bomb if I could get away with it.

"Simple things please simple minds," Gary commented, nudging me slightly and smiling. Even though I wanted to scowl at him for his remark I couldn't, I just smiled back.

He had a point though, I was easily pleased. That was not always a bad thing. I was sure that soon enough Gary would find that out.

We walked further into the crowd, allowing the up beat tempo of the music to dive into our souls and lift our spirits. Just being in this place made me want to run around and let loose.

It was an amazing feeling.

Gary of course was more mature than I was so he did not express as much enthusiasm as I did.

"So what do you want to do first?" He asked me.

I turned to him, not actually knowing. There were so many things we could do together, but I needed to decide on something.

Perhaps getting food would be best right now?

"Can we grab something to eat?"

He nodded and tried his best to locate a food stall amongst the crowd. Luckily for us Gary was taller than most of the people so he could see the majority of the area.

Once I assumed he found somewhere I felt his fingers latch around one of my wrists and drag me through the crowd towards the destination. It was really sweet that he was taking on such a protective role, especially with an audience.

Did he even care what they thought?

Even so... he is holding my arm... why can't it be my hand? That would be so much better, and so... cute. I don't think he would do that though, not at a carnival. Oh well, I can dream though can't I?

Once my body had been bumped and bashed into countless people on the way we finally made it to a burger stand. I was beginning to feel sore after that constant abuse and it was a good job Gary did not let go of me the entire time, otherwise I would've been lost to the mercy of the crowd.

"Well, what you having?" He asked me, pointing to the menu that hung on the wall.

I looked up, not wanting to be too greedy, after all, he was the one who was paying for me. Everything looked amazing and if I had the choice I probably would have ordered everything, but I digressed.

"I'll just have a cheeseburger," I issued.

He nodded and walked to the stand, addressing the man behind the counter in that professional manner of his. Watching how he interacted with the public was just amazing, I never had that quality. I was just an idiot and I made a fool out of myself easily, you would never catch Gary doing that.

I guess he just knew how to act in public.

"Here,"

Whilst lost in my thoughts something was thrust into my face, alarming me. It was then I noticed Gary was holding out the cheeseburger for me.

I quickly accepted, once again feeling like an idiot for staring blankly into space.

"Thank you," I murmured.

"It is alright, you don't need to thank me,"

As we stood by the stand and just watched the crowd all I wanted to do was be close to him. I did not care if anyone saw us together, or judged us.

I really liked him, and I wanted him to know that. I just did not know the best time to tell him.

Maybe later?

Slowly I started to eat the cheeseburger, trying to sort out the mess that was my mind. Standing so close to him, wanting to touch him, to just hold him was excruciating and it was beginning to be more difficult as time lingered on.

Once we had finished our food it was then decided we would try out some of the fun fair rides.

Of course most of them were for children so we had to find something a little more 'tasteful and mature', Gary's words not mine.

We walked past a Carousel that had different coloured Ponyta's spinning around. To me this was great, but Gary did not look pleased.

"Hey Gary, can we try this out?" I asked, trying my best to win him round.

I watched as he sighed and placed a hand to his head. Obviously going on a Carousel with me would ruin his reputation or something.

I just wanted to do something... together, and right now this seemed like the best thing. It is just cute, and I think if I can get Gary to lighten up a little he might begin to enjoy himself.

To my dismay he shook his head defiantly. There was obviously no way he was going to be seen dead on such a childish ride.

Typical.

"Hell no! Why don't we try something else? You know, something not so girly?" He glared at me and I just could not help it. My sides caved in and I burst into a fit of laughter.

Seeing his face so stern and serious just cracked me up. That along with the pleasing image of him on the Carousel, it just added to my amusement.

Raising an eyebrow at me he mused;

"I don't see what is so funny,"

"You... you are so serious sometimes," I commented, trying to stop my laughter. My sides were beginning to hurt and I just knew he was not pleased with me right now, after all I was technically laughing at him.

"Why don't we go on that?" He asked, pointing to another ride just a few yards away from us.

My laughter stopped immediately when I beheld what it was.

A Ghost Train ride.

Oh lord help me! I don't want Gary to know that I am terrified of stuff like that! He is going to think I am such a pansy if say no to it. Man, I am totally screwed.

I tried to speak but I just couldn't. The thought of being on the ride with all those weird creepy things leaping out at you was scaring me to no end.

Gary looked at me, slightly confused at my expression. Swallowing hard I needed to be brave and show him that I was not such a wimp.

"Ummm... alright,"

He smiled and once again grabbed me by the wrist as we walked over to the ride.

I must admit I liked the fact he kept dragging me everywhere, but to a Ghost Train? What if I got so scared and I screamed like a big girl? That would totally ruin everything and I wouldn't ever be able to live it down. Man this sucks.

"You'll be fine Ashy-Boy, no need to get scared," Gary mocked me playfully and I could already feel my blood start to boil.

I hated it when he called me that, but I also loved it. It had a weird effect on me when he used pet names with me. Even so this time I was only to mock me because I was scared, and I wasn't going to allow that.

"Shut up Gary, I ain't scared," I lied, now standing in the line, queuing for the ride.

He chuckled, obviously not believing what I just said.

Was it that obvious? Was I that easy to read?

"Yeah right," He commented.

Soon enough it was our turn to get on board the Ghost Train and I could feel my body begin to get heavier as I sat in the carriage. If Gary was not beside me then I probably would've had a panic attack or something, but no.

I wasn't going to wimp out, not this time.

Holding onto the bar tightly with my hands I flinched as I felt the vehicle begin to move along it's bumpy course and into, what I would class, hell itself.

Shit! Shit! Shit! No getting out of it now. That is it now, Gary is going to find out I am a pansy and will hate me forever. Great...

As we entered the dark abyss I could not see my hand in front of my face, nor could I see Gary. This was not good, at least with knowing he was beside me I felt better but now, I was a trembling mess.

My eyes struggled to get adjusted to the darkness and my ears pained at the haunting sounds that shrouded us. I did not hear a murmur out of the emerald eyed boy, he must have been content or something.

How was he not fazed by this?

"G-Gary... I can't see," I murmured, holding what I thought was the bar for dear life.

"That is the idea of a Ghost Train, idiot," He commented.

Breathing a sigh of relief I now knew at least he was beside me. That was one good thing.

Suddenly I heard the most horrendous scream in my ears and then a large image jumped right into my line of vision.

Screaming out in utter shock I found myself latching onto Gary for comfort. Burying my head into his arm I closed my eyes, hearing that horrible screaming sound haunt my senses.

I wanted to get off, right now!

"Ash... what are you doing? Are you okay?" He asked, obviously knowing I was not, after all I was gripping him rather tightly.

I shook my head, still refusing to open my eyes.

"That thing... it scared the hell out of me!"

Whilst I continued to hold onto the emerald eyed boy I felt his body move a little and then his arm pulled my trembling body closer to his.

He was holding me!

Oh my God! Gary is cuddling me? No way! I thought... I thought he would laugh or mock me for being scared. Instead... he is holding me...

Opening my eyes as the train bumped along it's course I could not believe it. Gary was so warm against me and as I inhaled I could smell his distinctive scent. It was really calming and for the first time on this ride I was at ease.

Holding onto him like this and not being pushed away or anything made my heart begin to thunder inside my chest. Right now none of this mattered, the carnival, the Ghost Train, nothing.

Just me and Gary, being close like this.

It was perfect.

I wished it could have lasted a lifetime.

Whilst holding Gary tightly and not wanting to let go I hardly noticed when the ride was coming to a standstill, signalling that it was over. I felt his arm move from around my body as the vehicle stopped completely.

Sighing both Gary and I got out of the carriage and made our way back towards the bustling crowds. I never wanted that time to end, and I had no idea when I would be able to hold him like that again.

As we stood stationary outside beside one of the stalls I could feel a tremendous heat rise to my cheeks.

I was blushing again, great.

It is understandable, after all, Gary just cuddled me throughout the entire ride. It was so... amazing. So unlike anything I have ever felt before.

The emerald eyed boy just looked at me as I snapped out of my daze. He must have wanted an explanation for my actions, even though I only had one and it was pretty pathetic.

"I am... sorry," I muttered, feeling like an idiot. To my amazement he didn't look angry or annoyed, he just smiled. Patting my back gently he said;

"It is fine you idiot,"


As time lingered on and afternoon was turning into a calm and peaceful evening Gary and I had wandered around most of the carnival, we had tried countless times to win prizes and had royally failed.

Obviously my skills combined with his were not enough to win us anything of value.

We decided against going on any more fairground rides and so instead stuck to playing in the amusements. Gary seemed to enjoy gambling all his money away more thrilling anyway.

"The fireworks will be starting soon," He mused, finally deciding not to spend any more of his money on those stupid grabbing machines, which are obviously fixed.

You never win!

I nodded, feeling kind of shy all of sudden.

Fireworks, they were so romantic to me and to be able to watch them with Gary just seemed too perfect for words.

"I can't wait," I answered, smiling at the taller boy.

Walking out of the amusement arcade we both came across one stall we had not tried out yet. Glancing up I saw the prizes that were available, large plush dolls of Pokemon, holding items with little messages on.

My eyes widened as my desire to have one was great.

I turned to Gary, he too had noticed the stall and the prizes.

"Shall we give it a go?" I asked.

Gary looked thoughtful, watching as other people tried to win the prizes.

It seemed to me the aim of this game was to throw an apple into the Snorlax's mouth to win, but even so, the apples were not round. The odd shape meant it was more difficult, but I had faith.

"There is no way a stupid Snorlax is going to beat me," Gary said defiantly, walking up to the stand and addressing the man behind the counter.

I smiled, it was cute to see that he wanted to win something for me, even if it was huge plush doll.

I walked up beside him and watched as he paid the money to the man in exchange for three oddly shaped apples.

Aim was everything here, and if he got just one apple into the mouth of the Snorlax then we would be winners!

Oh wow, Gary is so determined! It is really sweet that he wants to try to win something today for me. Even if it is something so... girly.

I watched with bated breath as he leaned on the counter and tried to get a good enough aim on the Snorlax. Swinging his arm back he tossed the apple towards it's mouth. My eyes watched as it bounced off the rim and fell to the floor.

"Wow Gary, that shot really sucked," I commented.

"Shut the hell up!" He growled back, concentrating solely on getting at least one apple into the mouth. His desire to win was strong and I just continued to smile.

Maybe my torment would push him forward.

Once again he aimed at the Snorlax, trying to figure out the best way of throwing the odd shaped apple so it would not bounce off. Swinging his arm back he tossed the second apple towards it's mouth.

This time I watched as it bounced and circled the rim before falling off onto the floor again.

He is trying so hard, I can tell. Just looking at his face, he is so determined to win. Bless him.

Coughing slightly Gary stood up straight.

I wondered if he was trying to figure out the best course of action to take. It was more difficult than we first anticipated but we were not going to allow some stupid game to beat us.

Leaning on the counter once again Gary tried to aim with the last apple.

Perhaps changing the way he threw it would help?

With bated breath I watched as he tossed the last apple towards the Snorlax's mouth. It bounced a little and circled the rim of the mouth, and then to my amazement fell inside.

We did it! WE WON!"

"Told you I wouldn't let it beat me," Gary said confidently, obviously pleased with himself.

The man behind the counter looked incredibly shocked, it was as if it was rare to win one of the prizes.

I smiled, completely shocked at the fact we had won, and the people who were still trying to get the prizes were now trying harder. It just proved that it was possible if you had the finesse to do it.

The man pulled down one of the large plush dolls and handed it to Gary. It was almost as big as him so no wonder it was hard to win these prizes.

It was now I saw what we had actually won.

It was a large Teddiursa plush doll, and in it's paws it was holding a love heart. The message on the love heart read 'I love you more than chocolate'.

It was at that moment Gary noticed too and I swear I saw a faint blush tint his cheeks. I knew I was blushing, I could feel that burning sensation again.

"H-here... I don't want it!" He said fiercely, shoving the large Teddiursa plush doll into my arms.

I just held it, my face probably beet red by now.

Gary had just given me a plush doll that said 'I love you more than chocolate', so of course I was going to blush!

"Ummm... t-thanks," I muttered shyly, holding the plush tightly in my arms. This small gesture meant so much to me and even if Gary was adamant about admitting it, I knew that deep within he was aware of what he was winning.

It was at that moment our attention was alerted to the evening sky, which was soon turning to night. The grey skies were getting darker and soon the firework display would be under way.

Right now, today had been the best day of my life so far. I had got to cuddle Gary and he won me this Teddiursa plush doll.

Things could only get better.

"I know some place where we could watch the fireworks from," Gary said, the blush on his face fading.

That seemed like a great idea, after all, being in this bustling crowd would not be favourable when the firework show began. I wouldn't be able to see much.

"Is it far?" I asked. He shook his head.

"No, follow me and I'll show you,"

I nodded and both Gary and I left the carnival, leading me to this sacred spot where it would be the best view to see the firework display.

This has been like a dream. Even though I had that news about Mom I am just so happy right now. Gary has been great today, I couldn't have wished for a better turn out.


After some walking we finally reached the destination.

It was a hillside, high enough for us to sit down and watch the display without having the crowds around us.

It was too perfect.

I held the plush doll tightly in my arms as I watched Gary sit down on the grass verge, his eyes scanning the sky for the beginning to the performance.

Nervously I walked over to him and sat beside him, placing the giant plush doll to my side. This place was just great, the perfect setting to watch the display, and it was really sweet that Gary had lead me up here.

"This is great!" I said, the enthusiasm obviously heard in my voice.

Gary smiled and then turned to face me.

"See, what did I tell you?"

I smiled too, loving the feeling that was rushing through every vein in my body. This was far more than just liking Gary, much more intense and gratifying.

Our bodies remained close as we sat side by side, watching as the sky continued to darken as night was beginning to set in.

"Gary?" I said, turning to face the emerald eyed boy.

"Yes?"

"Thank you for such a great day," I complimented, actually grateful for him being here with me. If I did not have him in my life I guess I would not have the strength to carry on, especially considering my Mom was really ill.

Gary turned away, maybe a little embarrassed with what I said.

"It's okay," He murmured, his eyes focusing on the sky.

My own eyes looked down at our hands. Both of them were barely inches apart on the grass and I just wished I could hold it. It would make this moment just that little bit more special.

My attention focused to the sky when the first firework erupted into a blaze of vivid colour just above us. The display was starting and we had front row seats.

Colours of red's, green's blue's and purple's danced in the night sky, illuminating the world with it's afterglow. This whole scene was very romantic to me, and I wondered if Gary felt the same.

I want to just hold him like before... and I want him to kiss me like before. This is perfect, and I want it to be perfect. I need to tell him!

"G-Gary?" I muttered, trying to find the courage from somewhere to confess everything to him.

As he turned to face me however and those beautiful emerald eyes just gazed into mine that courage just dissipated into thin air.

"What is it?"

I looked away and swallowed hard, as the fireworks continued exploding and dancing across the summer night sky.

I knew his attention was completely consumed in me right now and I needed to tell him. I wanted to, and if I did then things would become so much clearer.

"I... have something I want... to tell you,"

As another firework erupted just above us and fizzled out, his expression said it all to me. He was not trying to act like an idiot or try to mock me, he was here and I needed to confess.

"Yeah what is it?"

I could feel a cold sweat begin to consume as those eyes burned into my soul. I just wanted to give into him right then, to kiss him in ways I never even dreamed were possible until now, and to hold him like he was my life source.

"I...I..." I started, trying my best to confess.

You can do it! Just... come out with it! I... I...

"I...kind of like you Gary,"

His eyes widened as he looked at me and I could feel my battered soul beginning to lose the will to fight.

Did he think I was joking or something?

I had never been more serious about anything in my entire life.

"You... kind of like me?" He repeated, his voice sounding extremely shocked.

I weakly nodded, feeling like an idiot. Even so, he did not seem appalled or disgusted, just shocked.

"Yeah..."

As I looked away I heard him chuckle slightly. This alerted my attention once again.

Was he laughing at me?

"Well... in that case..." Gary mused, gently placing his hand on top of mine.

I felt a silent yelp fizzle into my throat but luckily I did not express it out loud. His hand was so warm and inviting and as our eyes locked he murmured;

"I guess... I kind of like you too, Ashy-Boy"


Phew... long chapter! I loved the carnival! And alas, they have confessed! :) I wonder what will happen now between our lovely little boys?

Sorry it took so long to update ^^; I will try to update as frequently as I can. Ash is a popular boy huh? Having two people like him at the same time? What a catch! Hehehehe, anyway I hope you all enjoyed the carnival and all the fluffyness! I sure did writing it and I cannot wait to hear your feedback about what you liked. It really does make me so happy.

Anyway, I am off to write the next instalment so ciao for now!