.
-The Boxes-
September 2022. Late Evening. Hearthome City, Sinnoh.
"That should be the last of them!" Dawn stated, placing a cardboard box on top of a bare shelf.
Looking around, the little, empty shop wasn't much, but opening day was quickly approaching. Now that all of the moving boxes were in place, she was ready to begin filling the racks with clothes for people and Pokemon alike. She was a few weeks away from her dream becoming a reality.
"Thanks for your help," Dawn sighed, turning to face Paul, who was placing the final box on the store counter. She offered an apologetic smile. "Sorry it took a little longer than I thought."
Paul closed his eyes. "It's fine. This is important to you."
"Still, I know you have a big match coming up," Dawn shifted her weight onto her hip. "I hope you didn't miss out on too much training because of me."
Paul hummed lowly in his throat, turning his head away.
Dawn smirked, placing her hands on her hips. "Hey, I told you not to fall in love with me," she teased, rising on her toes to gently wrap her arms around his shoulders. "Didn't you know that being my gruffy, strong, boyfriend comes with some heavy lifting?"
Paul huffed, the faintest smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "You never said either of those things."
"Oh?" Dawn raised a brow, lulling her head from side to side. "Well, maybe I thought it was implied."
"Unlikely."
"Shut up," Dawn giggled, leaning in to close the gap between them.
...And so it continues!