137. Sixty-Seven
It wasn't that Steven lied, but realistically, it wasn't exactly possible for the two of us to see each other every day the way things currently were.
But we did see each other at least once per week, which was more than I could ask. If I wasn't taking challengers, I was training, and if Steven wasn't looking for rocks, then he was going to other regions on business. Once a week was a blessing on our schedules.
When I missed him, my hand would find that pocket on my bag, and I'd remember that he wasn't so far away.
138. One Hundred Forty-Four
"Ah…" The woman challenging me put her hands on her knees and panted, but she still managed a sincere smile for me. "Ah, ha, ha, you're strong. How long have you been Champion?"
I put my hands on my hips, and my Swampert retreated to my side, rubbing against me. "Two years today, actually."
She laughed again, this time with a hand on her cheek. "That's a nice run. Looks like you might be here a lot longer, though."
"Well, I'll let you in on a little secret: today is also my last day as Champion. I've abdicated my title."
139. Two Hundred Fifty-One
"The villa sold."
I was mid-sip, so I hummed an acknowledgement. Steven picked up his own drink and took a sip, and we sat there staring at each other with straws in our mouths.
"Any good challengers lately?" I asked, exchanging my cup for a fry.
Truth was, being Champion had been a blessing. But by abdicating my title, Steven was reinstated, which meant that he would be around more. We had both agreed this was the best route.
"Few. How's your dad?"
"Good."
When we looked up at each other this time, we both snorted and burst out laughing.
140. Three Hundred Ninety-Five
A beep startled the two of us, and Steven checked his watch. "I have to go."
I sat up from my comfortable position lying across his lap and shifted so I was facing him. But he was already standing up and pulling on his suit coat. "Now?"
I followed him out the door, holding his hand as if that might keep him. When he was ready, he turned to me and kissed me—but there was always something about his goodbye kisses that left me wanting more.
"Until tomorrow," he assured me.
And, really, tomorrow wasn't all that far away.
Author's Note: I see Steven and May as a very relaxed couple, at least initially. Neither of them can really give up their lifestyles of being on the go and constantly traveling from one place to another, but they still want to be together. Eventually, once they've been together long enough, I think they would settle down, but until then, they have to sort of compromise to see each other. Hence why May abdicated.
This was fun—thank you to everyone who read to this point! I hope you enjoyed it. And if you're craving more Hoennchampionshipping, I have a lot of those fics, so be sure to check them out. (As well as many other fics for many different ships. Have a look if you feel like it.)