End Up with You

by tanneries

" The Turrfield leader throws his head and laughs, wrapping the girl in a hug. They remain in their embrace for a second too long, before Milo pulls away to pat her shoulder. Bile rises in my throat at the sight. I feel a twinge of jealousy towards the girl, wishing Milo would stop touching her"

Chapter 1

" Let's begin the meeting." Oleana enters the room with a tablet, moving to her chair at the conference table's front. "Are the gym leaders going to be attending today?" Oleana demands.

Leon and I share a glance. Where the gym leaders supposed to attend? I don't remember the Chairwoman mentioning anything about all members of the Pokemon League attending. I hide my phone underneath the table and quickly scan through my notes if I missed the memo. I look up and grab Leon's attention, shaking my head when he makes eye contact.

"They weren't aware that attendance to the meeting was mandatory Chairwoman. The gym season is in the final weeks, so they are all quite busy." Leon comes up with a flimsy excuse.

"I was not aware that I had to specify their attendance! It should be assumed by now." Oleana places extra emphasis on the last sentence. "Honestly, Leon, if you can't do this one simple task…" She sighs. ".. Very well. Let's proceed. There is much to discuss today." Oleana sweeps her cold gaze around the table.

"The first item, I want to congratulate the Pokemon League Team on a successful Gym Challenge season and Championship Cup. The year was a success despite the new gym leaders in Spikemuth and Ballonlea." She throws shade at Bede and Marnie's first-year performance. I feel anger starting to swirl about in my head at her lack of decorum with the young leaders.

" Our second item to discuss is the Galarian Star Tournament. The tourney is ongoing throughout the on and off seasons and has lost revenue from the last year. However, it would be beneficial for the gym leaders and The Champion to worry about their primary duties and not to battle for fun all the time. Leon, Sophie, and Elise, I know all of you are quite new to your positions, but you need to be more assertive with your leaders. Please remind them they have more to worry about than battling and posting on their social media."

What is with Oleana? Lately, she has been unrelenting in her criticism of us. Ever since the gym challenge started, she has been unrelenting in her criticism of the gym leaders and our team. I could tell how worn-down Leon is of her constant criticism. He has been building up some courage to ask The Chairwoman to sell Ma the Galarian Pokemon League so our organization would finally be free of corporate support.

Oleana scans through her Poke Tablet before continuing. "Let's talk about the future of the Pokemon League, shall we? Leon, I know you want to continue the Galarian Star Tournament-preferably on a weekly basis and are looking to separate the Pokemon League from Macro Cosmos." My eyes widen at her mention of the League. Did Leon mention it to her before this meeting?

"You have Macro Cosmos full support; however, it would be unwise not to mention the lack of Pokemon League sponsors. Some of the sponsors removed their funding last year due to your involvement in The Darkest Day. I am sure you are well aware, Leon, that funds for tourneys, exhibition games, and challenges are quite costly. What is your plan to fund these events?" Oleana's tone was quite demeaning to the former champion. I clench my hands into fists, biting my tongue from saying anything to the insolent woman.

"If I may, Chairwoman, you were also involved in Rose's plans to capture Eternatus. More so than Leon. Riddle me: How is the lack of corporate sponsorship Leon's fault when he was forced to do your bidding?" I interrupt Oleana's dialogue.

Oleana's glare would freeze a Sillicobra in its tracks. "Miss Claire, I was not aware that you were there on that miserable day. Care to add anything?"

Leon pats my hand underneath the table, an unspoken request not to challenge Oleana. I shift my eyes to him, and he mouths, "It's alright." He turns his attention back to the agitated woman nodding to continue.

Oleana focuses on me. "Sophie, let's discuss the media events. Why has there been a lack of fan greets, interviews, and photoshoots?"

I glance down at my notes as I speak, hoping to avoid eye contact with Oleana. "Chairwoman, everyone has done interviews in post-battle conferences. As far as fan greets and such, the gym leaders set their own meet and greet and post to social media frequently, I might add. We don't see the need to manage their schedules, opting instead for a more free-reign type of management style."

Oleana leans back in her chair and touches her fingertips." Sophie, I understand your hesitation in scheduling large fan events. It must be hard due to your incident with Tommy. However, you should have run your management strategy by me before letting the gym leaders and champion run about, creating their own schedule. Your technique is quite lazy. I will overlook it due to the traumatic events you endured, but next year I won't be lenient."

"Chairwoman, I ran the idea past Leon." My voice turns bitter.

"Miss Claire! I will remind you to show some decorum! You are not to question or argue with me, understood?" Oleana's eyes darken in anger.

"Chairwoman, it is my fault. I should have informed you about the public relations strategy." Leon defends me. Oleana waves his hand to dismiss his comment.

"Sophie, I am not quite finished with you." Oleana's mouth twitches. "Starting today, you will scout for potential donors for the Pokemon League. Only you, without any assistance. I am quite interested in one particular." She forcefully slides a manila folder across the table. I open the flap reading the first line: Lysandre from Kalos. He has several cafes throughout Lumiose City and the region of Kalos. He donates a large number of funds each year to Pokemon Research labs. Former Chairman Rose took a particular interest in him a couple of years ago as an angel investor in Macro Cosmos. "

You will contact him as soon as possible. That is your sole job. I am taking you off your PR advisor role for the gym leaders. I don't have to remind you how inappropriate your relationships are with them."

"So, what, I'm to track down investors for Macro Cosmos? Because I can assume from this file that you are looking for a partnership with the man and not a sponsorship." I spit.

Oleana regards me calmly. "That is a given, Ms. Claire. One would assume if he invested in the company that he would also be generous next League season. Since you insist on a laissez-faire approach with Galar's greatest assets, I have no choice but to put you on a task I can monitor."

I swallow the retort I had for Oleana in my throat.

"Meeting adjourned."

I jump out of my chair and make a beeline for the door. I need to get out of this wretched room. In less than five minutes, I was outside taking deep breaths and withholding a scream.

"Sophie, wait a second." Leon is running towards me. I stop in my tracks, waiting for a purple-haired man to catch up.

"You okay? The Chairwoman was…rude to you."

"She was a bitch, alright? You can say the word. She has also been quite critical of you too, Leon."

"Yea. Oleana has been throwing so much work towards me that I barely have time to battle with Raihan in the Star tourney. Don't worry, though. How are you besides the Oleana business? I know you have been through a lot lately."

"I'm fine, Lee, really." I give him a friendly pat. "I can only wonder what her problem is, though?"

"Well, to begin with, Rose is being released from jail." Elise joins our small circle. "He wants to step back into the Chairman role, and Oleana is paving the way for him to transition seamlessly. She was only supposed to be interim chief until his return. Of course, Rose still holds a grudge against Leon for not going along with his plans. I think with you, Sophie, she is upset that you are not her lackey. You have gone around and befriended every leader, allowing them control over their own gym leader duties. Oleana dislikes not having control. Also, it is not helpful that Sonia broke up with Oleana for a gym leader."

" Quite the font of gossip, eh Elise?" I tease my intern. Also, rightfully so! Oleana has been treating Sonia horribly! Sonia stood by her side through the whole Darkest Day fiasco! Oleana promised to change but instead has become more power-mad and ignored dates with Sonia. "She deserves it." Leon defends his childhood friend.

"I'm starting to wonder if the way she treated all of us at the beginning was an act. Catch more Honeybees with honey, eh?" I add my thoughts

"Either way, let's just do what she says and keep any additional plans for the Pokemon League quiet. I don't know how she found out about The Pokemon League wanting to separate from MC." Leon strokes his chin.

Elise's face contorts at the mention of Oleana discovering our plans. She composes herself and says her goodbyes, claiming she was about to miss her train home. I look at her, retreating, wondering what the strange look on her face was about. I quickly forget about her when Leon addresses me.

"Sophie, want to go to Hammerlocke? I think Raihan would be happy to see you." Leon throws out a Pokeball, releasing his Charizard.

"You don't have to tell me twice!" I laugh as the fire pokemon crouches so I can climb on his back. Leon jumps behind me, securing the both of us before signaling Charizard to move. We are soon in the air, moving towards Hammerlocke.

"Sophie!" Raihan roars as he scoops me up. "Long time, girl!"

" I missed you too, Rai!" Raihan returns me to the floor and greets his boyfriend. "Hey, handsome," he coos.

Raihan and Leon move into a romantic embrace. I turn my face away to give them a bit of privacy. After a couple of minutes, Leon clears his throat, signaling that I can turn around.

"Raihan, Sophie just got properly chewed out by Oleana today. Think you can cheer our friend?"

Raihan flashes his fangs. "Of course. Sophie, let's forget that hag and party." Before long, Raihan brings alcohol out to his balcony. I release Gigi to the yard with Raihan's pokemon so she can play with Duraludon and Flygon while the three of us drank and chat.

"Sophie, we have not had a proper friends' chat or outing in months! Let's fix that soon, alright?" Raihan sits in the comfy chair next to mine.

"Absolutely! Although maybe some other night? I'm sure I want to drag Nessa, Sonia, and Lucy along!" I take a small sip of whiskey. The liquid burns its way down my throat, creating a light, carefree attitude in a mere manner of minutes.

"Alright then, deal." Raihan claps my hand.

The three of us flow into conversation easily. We began by talking about Raihan and Leon's day as gym challengers, back before they were attracted to each other. I laugh at the jokes they made at each other's expense. After a while, our conversation turns to my preferences. Leon asks if I always wanted to be in pr. I never wanted to be in pr; rather, I felt the need to find a steady job after I turned 18. With my parents' disappearance and Lucy's lack of resources, I could not afford to follow my passion. I explain this to Leon and Raihan, the two furrowing their brows in confusion at my failure to go over my dreams. I sit back and think about my dream job. I always wanted to be a pokemon professor or researcher. I never found a passion in training and battling Pokemon, but rather working with them in a lab environment. It is either the alcohol or my need to confide in someone, but I tell the two men about my Pokemon Researcher dream.

"Not too late for that." Leon encourages me. I shake my head, explaining that I have too many obligations to just up and quit my miserable, soul-sucking job.

I find my way home after spending a couple of hours with the two strongest trainers in Galar. Not wanting to come down from my buzz, I convince Lucy to take out a couple of bottles of champagne. We had just begun our second glass of champagne when our door opens. Piers walks into the room, leaning down to my cheek for a quick peck "Hi, love."

"Piers," I squeal in delight. I am unable to contain my excitement at seeing him, likely due to the strong buzz I had from the alcohol. I jump in his arms, wrapping my legs around his waist. I kiss him hungrily, moving my lips over his. Piers returns my passion as our hands wander over each other's bodies. We stay in our embrace for a couple of minutes before I hear a throat clear. "I am still here, you know!"

I break the kiss and smirk at my friend. "Enjoying the show?"

Piers plants me down and raises his eyebrow. " Ya drink enough there, Soph? Are you able to chat? Alone?" He sneaks a look at Lucy.

"Well, I'll leave you to it then." Lucy huffs as she exits the room.

Piers move back to my lips. "Did I ever tell ya how much I love ya?"

I sit down on his lap. "Well, not in the last hour; also, I haven't heard my queen in a while either."

"Oh really?"

"Just so you're aware!" I plant my feet on the ground and sigh." Seriously, Piers, what is this about?"

" Yer spoiled. It's my fault." He presses a kiss to my neck and drags his lips until they meet mine, trying to distract me from why he wants to chat.

His hand snakes around my waist, pulling me closer. "Let's talk about this later, alright?"

I gently push him away, feeling slightly annoyed at his aloofness. "Let's talk about it now, shall we? What's going on, Piers?"

Piers sighs, his hands dropping to his sides" Listen, love, I'm going to Unova in a couple of weeks. My band is tourin' over there. It migh' be several months, maybe more. I trust my lil' sis to take care of Spikemuth and the gym. I know I'm leavin' ya here, but this is a bit thin' for me."

"Of course it is! Why do you think I would be upset?" I search the blue-green eyes surrounded by wild black and white hair.

"About that. I wanted to get the good news out of 'ay first." Piers looks down at the ground. "I don't want to move in togethe' Soph, ever. I don't like bein' tied down to a place or person. Call it committmen' issues."

"Are you serious? What, am I just a lay?" I step away from the punk man crossing my arms.

" NO! I do love you! I wouldn't be with ya otherwise! Love, I want to be honest with ya. I just don't know if I ever want to take the next step with anyone." Piers's gaze is still on the floor.

I nod my head in frustration holding back the tears that threaten to spill. "So, what is this then." I move my arm back and forth between us. "Is that why you are dating more than one person?"

"Eh, come now, Soph! Ya know that has nothin to do with that! Why ya gotta brin' that up often?"

" I not comfortable with this arrangement! I haven't been since I got out of the hospital! Things have changed, Piers!" My voice grows louder.

" Well, I want to be with ya, but I am a singer who loves to be on the road. I. I also don't want to feel obligated to come home because of yer here.

"Thank you for being honest." I look down at the floor, not wanting to look into the eyes of the man. "I'm not sure how to take that."

Piers grabs my hand. "Believe me when I say I love you."

I squeeze his hand. "I love you too. But I am so angry with you right now!"

Piers drags me on his lap and kisses my lips. My lips remain still as he moves over them. After a couple of minutes, he gives up on the intimate embrace. He leans back. "I thought the whole uncomfortable thing would pass, Soph!"

I throw my hands up in frustration, not wanting to go into another round of an argument about this topic. "I think you should go. I will call ya tomorrow."

"Ya." Piers looks into my eyes as if he is pleading with me to stay. He finally kisses my forehead, walking swiftly out of the room. I walk to my room, slamming my door and planting face-first into my bed, letting out a silent scream into my pillow.

Interlude

Piers's POV

Piers steps out into the Hammerlocke Morning. He had spent the night at Raihan's place, not wanting to make the trek back to Spikemuth late last night. Squinting his eyes at the bright streets, he begins the short walk back to Spikemuth. Piers plays the previous night repeatedly in his mind, trying to figure out how he and Sophie had gotten to this tense state in their relationship. Arceus, he loved her! How he wished he could give her everything she wanted. Piers knew that he couldn't live with any romantic partner due to his own insecurities and lifestyle. He could never tell anyone about his troubles, opting to remain silent since he didn't want to burden-particularly Sophie or Piers, with any of these trivialities. He knew that if he paused for a big life change, he would have to give up his touring and singing. Maybe one day, Piers would be able to give Sophie himself completely, but he secretly hoped he never had to, regardless of how he felt about the girl. Piers realizes that he had arrived at the gate of Spikemuth. He grumbles as he walks underneath the main doorway. Some Spikemuth residents spot him, waving him over to their group. "Oi, Piers!" Piers waves but keeps moving toward home. He had to check on Marnie before going to practice his new song. He opens the door to find his sister eating breakfast. "Oi, big bro, ya spen' the night at Soph's?"

"no"

"How is she?" Marnie turns her body to face her brother.

"She's alrigh'. She wants to move in togethe." Piers didn't know why he told Marnie this news. Something inside of him just wanted to tell.

"Ya said no?" Marnie takes another bite of her cereal. Piers nods at his sister.

"No offense, big bro, but yer missing out."

"I want to concentrate on my music more, remember?"

"Do it here then. Why ya gotta tour?" Marnie interrogates Piers.

"Cause I don't want to. Stop with the questio' and give me the box."

Marnie shakes her head at her brother. "How's Gordie?"

"We still datin'. Now can I have the cereal?"

Chapter 2

Milo's POV

Milo wipes the sweat off his brow, placing the last Wooloo in the field. He had spent the better part of the early morning rounding up the stray Wooloo. The fluffy Pokemon enjoyed rolling about Turrfield, barely avoiding hitting townsfolk and visitors alike. Luckily Milo had experience chasing the unruly pokemon throughout the small town, but he always had some obstacles to consider. Mainly the citizens of Turrfield chasing after him wanting to stop and chat with the village's local celebrity as he gathered the Wooloo. Now that he had finished his morning chores, he runs to his flower shop to get a bouquet for Sophie. Milo and Sophie agreed to have breakfast meets every couple of days to have a proper catch-up. Milo walks into his small cottage stamping his feet on the entryway before removing them. Going over his to-do list before Sophie arrives, he realizes the only item left to do was prepare breakfast. Milo begins preparing the omelets for the meal, getting lost in thought about his friend. Arceus, she is so beautiful! Milo instantly fell for her a year ago at a party for gym leaders. Once she started her job as the PR advisor, she would often make official trips to Turrfield to remind him about his pr responsibilities. At first, Milo could barely speak to her, thinking the two had nothing in common. His best friend Nessa quickly catches on to his crush, encouraging him to pursue the blond-haired lady. Nessa would offer pointers on Sophie's likes and dislikes, often with a hint of teasing. He thought he missed his chance when Piers and her started dating, but a glimmer of hope was ignited when he discovered the two were in an open relationship. Milo did not know much about polyamory, but surely that meant he could date her, right? He tries to shake his hopeful thoughts off, not wanting to date a woman with a boyfriend. Milo never judged anyone's lifestyle, opting to be accepting and kind to everyone. Personally, he was not one to share a romantic partner since he rather enjoyed the intimacy of being exclusive. That is what he tried to tell himself, but he was weak in Sophie's presence. Milo tried to kiss her one drunken evening during a charity gala, but she ran away with an excuse. A couple of hours later, Sophie was in the hospital, and Milo's heart was shattered at the possibility of losing the woman he loves. He made a mistake when he tried to kiss her, and if she survived, he would apologize and agree just to be friends. Luckily, Sophie recovered from the nasty assault. The next time they chatted, Milo insisted he was drunk and apologized for his gala behavior. Milo wanted Sophie in his life, even if it's as friends.

Milo flips the omelet and grabs plates from the shelf. He hands a couple of Oran berries to his Tsaaderena. The Pokemon chirped, delighting in the treat. Milo's front door squeaks, announcing the presence of a visitor. A melodic voice fills the room, causing Milo's heart to jump in his chest. Sophie. He turns around, rewarded with her radiant smile.

Sophie

I arrive in Turrfield early the next morning. I was heading to Milo's for our biweekly breakfast chat. In the last several months, Milo and I grew closer as friends. It was easy to open up to the friendly farmer. At first, Milo was quiet, choosing to listen to my stories instead of chatting. He opens up to me as our meets became frequent, telling me about his days and jokes he shared with his trainers. I can confidently say that Milo is one of my best friends and I often confide in him more than Lucy!

I walk through the door of his cozy farmhouse. I hear a noise in the kitchen, and a wonderful smell greets my nostrils. "Hi, Milo!"

The muscular, sweet man pokes his head out a door and gives a short wave. I sit down at Milo's small k table and watch as he put the finishing touches on our breakfast. I toss a Pokeball into the air, and in a pink ray of light, my Gengar jumps out. She giggles at the sight of the omelets, ignoring Milo's greetings as she holds out a plate for her food.

Milo serves my enthusiastic pokemon before setting several plates on the table and calling for his pokemon. My Gengar swiftly disappearing with her full plate.

Milo's Cottonee trots into the room, her fluffy body floating around, eyeing the plates. She wharfs down her meal and moves to my lap. "Cottonee!" I greet. I brush her soft back. " I missed you, lovely!"

I am too caught up in giving the Pokemon attention that I forget about Milo until a teacup is placed in front of me. Cottonee jumps from my lap, following my rowdy Gengar out the door. I take a small bite of the egg, closing my eggs as the buttery goodness melts in my mouth. I do a happy dance as I take another bite. Milo chuckles, "That good, eh?"

"These are amazing, Milo! You must let me return the favor and cook for you!" I close my eyes again as I savor another bite of the egg.

"Don't worry about it! I get to see you more, so I don't mind." Milo's cheeks turn a soft color of pink as he looks into my eyes. He must be hot from the stove; I rationalize to myself.

"Isn't your match today?" I start the conversation.

Milo's eyes brighten. "I am battling Kabu at the stadium. Would you like to watch?"

I nod my head. "I would love to."

Milo beams. "I look forward to it."

"I need the distraction. It has been a difficult week." I sigh.

"Oh? Is everything alright?"

"Well…" I spend the next several minutes catching up on my week. My disagreement with Oleana, Oleana cutting my responsibilities, and Piers. I ramble on about Piers and his lack of commitment. How could he possibly think moving in with me would hinder his career? "….I know I'm overreacting. I agreed to our open relationship when we first started to date, but I am becoming uncomfortable with it after that nasty incident. Maybe I rushed into this whole moving in business, but it hurts to hear that I would be a hindrance to his career! I just don't know anymore? Maybe I shouldn't have rushed into a relationship with him!" I lay my head down on the table in frustration.

"Piers loves you, Soph. He hardly cares about anyone but Marnie. He goes out of his way for you. He never did that for anyone when he was a gym leader." Milo assures me.

"I think it's time to move on and start dating others," I say flatly.

Milo chokes on his milk. I jump out of my chair and clap his back repeatedly, hoping the coughing will get under control. "Milo, you alright?"

Milo is red as a tamato berry by the time he stops coughing. He takes a giant gulp of milk to compose himself. "Did I say something bad?" I ask.

Milo shakes his head. "Arceus No! It's just that…."

I move my hand over his in a gesture of comfort. Milo's green eyes look down at our connected hands and then meet my eyes. As we make eye contact, the world instantly slows down. Butterfrees start to fly around my stomach as a spark ignites between us. I realize our hands are still touching, and I jerk away. "Milo, I'm sorry. I should have asked permission before touching you."

"It's fine, Soph. Really. Umm, I have to go. I can meet you after?"

The Gigantamaxed Centiskortch sends a G-Max flame at Milo's Eldegoss. A loud boom shakes the Turrfield stadium. When the smoke settles, Centiskortch remains standing as Milo returns the pokemon to its ball. The stadium erupts into cheers at Kabu's victory; everyone pumped from the battle between friends. I make my way down the stadium stairs and walk through the doors leading to the locker rooms. Kabu and Milo walk out just as I arrive, laughing. Kabu is the first to spot me.

"Hey, Sophie! We missed you in the pre-game meeting today!"

"I missed seeing you as well! I am no longer your PR manager since the Chairwoman insists I work on another work project. "I explain.

"Why don't you join us for lunch? We just have to do a quick greet with our fans if you don't mind waiting." Kabu grabs both ends of the towel around his neck.

Elise steps out of the room with a couple of security guards in tow. Her eyes widening as she spots me. "Sophie, you can't be back here, remember? You are not their advisor." I recoil at the girl's cold greeting.

"Elise, I invited her. It's alright." Milo calmly explains to her. Elise purses her lips and types on her Rotom phone, taking her to leave. I shake my head, answering Kabu's earlier question. "How can I say no to lunch?"

Security guards lead us to the front of the gym for a quick meet with the fans. A squeal goes around the waiting area at the sight of the two celebrities. I move to the side to avoid the stampede of people running to their idols. I notice a beautiful girl standing next to Milo, laughing at something he is saying. She leans in close, whispering in his ear. The Turrfield leader throws his head and laughs, wrapping the girl in a hug. They remain in their embrace for a second too long before Milo pulls away to pat her shoulder. Bile rises in my throat at sight. I feel a twinge of jealousy towards the girl, wishing Milo would stop touching her. Why was I jealous of her, though? Milo is my best friend; I shouldn't be bothered by a fan interaction, right? Milo's voice interrupts me. "Hey Soph, you ready for lunch?"

"Uh, yea, but don't you want to spend more time with your friend?" My voice is laced with venom.

Milo looks taken aback at the tone. " Are ya talking about the girls I was chatting with? I'm done talking to them. Is everything alright?"

"Oh. I see" The jealous feeling doesn't disappear. Unwanted thoughts invade my mind, mostly of being the only one Milo touches. I shake off the dirty thoughts as I begin to imagine his hands drifting underneath my panties. Milo is just my friend!

Milo cocks his head, his salmon curls falling into his eyes. "Are you okay?" Concern crossing his face.

"I'm fine, really! I just forgot I promised Gordie lunch today! Can I take a rain check?"

Milo's large hand covers my shoulder " Alright. Sophie, I hope ya know if ya need anything, I'm here."

I shake my head rapidly. "No. No. It's fine. I should be going."

MILO POV

Milo stares at Sophie's, retreating in confusion. Why did she sound upset? Did he cause it?

"Milo, mate, you ready?" Kabu stands next to him.

"Yes." Milo falls into step with the shorter man, remaining silent in thought.

"You okay there, big guy?" Kabu asks.

"It's Sophie. I think she is upset." Milo shares with his mentor.

"Is that why she left? She's probably busy with work." Kabu studies Milo's face. "You really care about her, don't you?"

Milo is taken aback by the older man's question. Were his feelings for Sophie that obvious? Nessa was the only one that knew about his unrequited love.

Milo lets the secret off his chest. "Yes."

"Have you told her?"

"I want to, but I don't want to lose her. I can't imagine life without her." Milo smiles, thinking of the blonde woman.

Kabu whistles. "Sounds like you care for her more than I thought."

"I would be the happiest man in Galar if she was with me." A goofy smile spreads on Milo's face.

Kabu smiles fondly. "My boy, I think it is more likely to happen than you think."

Milo furrows his brows. "What do you mean exactly?"

"You should talk to her."

Chapter 3

So, I wasn't honest with Milo. I had no lunch plans with Gordie. I have hardly seen the man since I left the hospital, possibly due to growing feelings of jealousy of his relationship with Piers. I had these selfish desires to be the only lover in Piers's life, but I knew it wasn't possible. I just need to shake it off. I happily agreed to our open relationship a year ago! I have no right to complain. My thoughts start to spin. A black void starts to creep in, eating away at my happy thoughts and magnifying every insecurity and trauma I have endured. I hold my head in my hands, trying to still the thoughts, but the action seems to make things worse. A heaviness comes down on my chest, pressing down on my lungs until it is difficult to breathe. I can't be alone right now! I look at the window of the Corviknight Taxi, trying to see what is nearby. Off in the distance, a familiar spire pierces the sky. I tap the glass of the cab, motioning the driver to dropdown.

I trudge through the castle doors of the Hammerlocke gym. Gritting my teeth, I ignore the pain radiating from my chest and stroll to the gym receptionist, Claire. The girl looks up as I approach. "Sophie! What are you doing here? You're not supposed to be here!"

What is she on about? "What do you mean?"

"Well, I got a call from a representative this morning informing us you no longer work for the Pokemon League. I can't grant you access anywhere off-limits."

I try to compose my breath. "Who called…? Never mind that. Could you please page Raihan? It's urgent!"

Claire shakes her head. "Gym Leader Raihan is busy at the moment. He just arrived back from the Galarian Star Tournament."

"How is he busy? If he just arrived, he should be able to meet!" My voice rises in panic with every passing moment.

"I'm so sorry, Sophie! I was told not to grant you access under any circumstances. That includes calling the gym leaders down for a chat. I can make you an appointment with…"

"I don't want a bloody appointment! I am here to see my friend! Please!" Tears begin pooling in my eyes. Clara types something on her Rotom phone. She reaches behind her and places a box of tissues next to me. "Take deep breaths. I just messaged him on my personal phone, so the nosy execs don't ask questions, alright?"

I nod; feeling my breathing growing shallower, I grab a tissue and hide my red face.

"Just breathe. Deep breaths." Clara is leaning over the counter, rubbing soothing circles on my shoulder. "He is coming, I promise."

"Hey Clara, what is with the frantic messages about Sophie?" Raihan whips around the corner. He rushes to my side. "What happened?"

"I can't breathe." I croak.

"She has a panic attack," Clara explains. "It is my fault. I told her she couldn't see you because of that nonsense from Macro Cosmos."

"Clara, in the future, please allow Sophie unrestricted access. She is a very close friend." He winks at his receptionist.

"Yes, sir."

Raihan wraps me tighter as I keep gasping and holding my chest. "Soph, we are going up to my place, alright?" I can only manage a nod.

The next thing I remember, I am sitting on a soft couch. The pain in my chest intensified, and I let out a strangled moan. A glass of water hovers above my head. I yank it from the owner's hands. I gulp down the liquid, the cold splashing on my chest like a wave of relief. "Can I sit next to you?" Raihan's voice booms overhead.

"Yea."

I feel a slight bend in the cushion next to me. I focus on my breathing, counting in my head to six and syncing my breath with the count.

"You good?" The dragon leader taps my knee.

"I'm fine." I take a deep breath. "I'm not sure what happened. I started thinking about Piers and our relationship. I'm just jealous of everyone he touches! I'm jealous of Gordie, terrified that he is Piers's favorite, and that is why he won't move in with me! And then Milo…Arceus Milo! I got jealous of a fan of his today- a fan Raihan! I must be feeling insecure, right? This must be because of my assault, right?" I let out a string of thoughts, not stopping to analyze whether they make sense.

Raihan quietly listens until I finish my rant. "Are you feeling better?"

"I am feeling a bit better, thank you."

Raihan wraps around me in a side hug. "Do you want advice or perhaps a distraction?"

"I just was terrified to be alone when all of this went down. I needed a friend."

"Well, lucky you! The Great Raihan is here to help." The dark-skinned man grins with a wink.

"No, No, No Rai! Please do not play that awful movie!" I screech at my friend. Raihan is holding up a bad romantic comedy about two gym leaders from Kanto.

"Soph! Come now, it is a classic! I make Lee watch it every movie night!"

"Well, thank Arceus, I'm not Lee! Now put that away, and let's watch a real movie." I demand.

Raihan rolls his eyes and shuffles through some more selections on his telly when the door opens. Leon steps through with a giant bag of Kantonian takeout.

"I heard that you were visiting Soph, so I thought I would bring a favorite!" Leon tries to hide a bashful grin. Raihan must have told Leon I had a bad day. I run up and hug to purple-haired man. "Thanks, Lee. You know me food weakness, eh?" I start shuffling through the bag, pulling out different boxes. I eat with the couple in front of the telly. Raihan had won the movie fight. Not all hope was lost since Leon and I started quoting the bad lines throughout the movie, much to Raihan's displeasure. The evening had ended before I imagined, and I left the two men alone. I walk out to the quiet streets of Hammerlocke. My Rotom phone dances in front of me with a message from Piers. You up. Wondering if we can chat? I ask Rotom phone to video request Piers. After the second ring, the man picks up his eyeliner eyes, filling the screen before he backs away for a better view. "Hey, love. I haven't heard from ya today."

"Yea, well, I had to think about things," I reply coldly.

"Oi, what's with ya? Ya still caught up on last night?" Piers moves to a dark corner with dim lighting, covering half of his face from my view.

"Actually, I am. I will support you, Piers, but I am not sure if I can do it as your girlfriend anymore."

Piers loudly sighs. "What d'ya mean by that, Sophie?"

"I'm not sure I have the emotional strength to be with you right now." I stare down at the ground.

Quiet falls on the other side of the video chat. I can only imagine his answer at the moment. "I love you, Sophie. I haven't been fair to ya, have I? I shouldn't have to ask ya to settle for somethin' ya don't want."

I look back into the screen at him. "I love you too, Piers, but I think I need to figure out what I want. Let's take a pause."

Piers rubs his neck. "Ai, that works. Well, if ya don't mind, I need to get off. Be safe, Sophie. I'll talk to ya soon." The video call disconnects. I stare back at my reflection on the phone's screen. I don't feel anything at the moment. Shouldn't I be more upset that I basically asked for a break-up? I trudge on home, waiting for the inevitable emotions to crash on me. I barely register entering my home, let alone the squeal Lucy made when I accidentally walked in on her and James. "Sophie! I thought you were with Piers!"

I shake my head. "We broke up."

Lucy's voice shrieks in my ear. "What?" I ignore her opening the door to my room and collapsing on the bed.

PIERS POV

Piers stomps off the stage as the band ends the song. He couldn't get the chat with Sophie out of his head. He loves her, and despite not wanting to split, he agreed so she could figure out what she needed. Maybe she would come back to him, and all would be well. Piers knew that deep down, Sophie and he were permanently parting.

Needless to say, Piers had sung his sorrow and anger out tonight during his concert. Ignoring his fans' protest of ending the show early, he grabs his microphone, slipping out the back. He jogs back to his flat, hoping the citizens of Spikemuth won't notice their favorite son actively avoiding them. He throws himself through the door, slamming his jacket down on the couch. "Fuck!" he exclaims, falling on the couch as the dam of tears burst. Marnie hears the commotion and runs out, finding her brother in tears. She quietly sits down next to him, patiently waiting for Piers to compose himself.

"Ya alright, big bro?" Marnie asks.

"Yea, Marn" Piers sniffles.

"I don't believe ya." Marnie is refusing to give up on her big bro. Piers is not one to burst into tears.

"It's just a Sophie thing, 'right?" He glares at her. "Leave me!"

"What 'appened? Ya break up or somethin?" The look in Piers' eyes says everything. "Oi, big bro, she did!"

"It's nothin', Marnie! She just aske' for a break. That's all."

Marnie sits silently next to her sibling, drowning in thoughts. Sophie has changed since she was pulled out of the river. She can hardly blame the woman for the confusion and insecurity she was going through. Marnie hoped that Piers and Sophie would work through it, but her wish was in vain. Poor Piers loves the woman, probably more than he loved any girl he has been with.

Marnie turned on the telly, turning it to an earlier exhibition match between herself and Gloria.

Chapter 4

"Come now, Sophie! Go out with us tonight!" Lucy is sitting on my bed with her hands clasped in front of her chest. "We are going to the club, and it won't be fun without you!"

I keep my eyes on the telly's screen, ignoring her pleas. She huffs in frustration and moves her body to block my view.

"Hey!" I protest, moving my head around her shoulder. Lucy refuses to budge, wiggling her head about to block my head movements. I throw my hands in resignation, crossing them over my chest.

"Sophie, it has been days…days! Since you last went out. When is the last time you showered, brushed, or changed your clothes?" Her nose wrinkles at my lack of hygiene. "Darling, I can't imagine what you must be going through. Do you think you can go out with your friends tonight?" She strokes my arm and shines her sweetest smile at me.

"Fine!" I stumble out of bed. Lucy's eyes take in my form. "First, go shower! Have just the thing for you to wear! I am giving you the Lucy star treatment-free, of course, because I love you!"

Lucy chose a shimmery silver top with a dangerously low neckline. The shirt is paired with tight black jeans and heels. I feel confident for the first time in days. I strut up to the entrance of Club Hammerlocke with my friends as Raihan throws his hands in the air, announcing our presence as we walk by the door. The people by the door scream when they see him, excited to see the Hammerlocke leader. Nessa grabs my arms and motions, Lucy to follow. "let's go to a private room and get some drinks ordered while those two get their hourly adoration."

Nessa leads us to the club's private VIP area, while Leon and Raihan stop to chat with the line of people. We sit on a fancy couch surrounded by a sheer curtain. Nessa takes charge, ordering drinks for us all when the waiter approaches. Raihan and Leon join our private section after a couple of minutes, shaking off some fans that wanted to join them.

"Sophie, you look hot tonight!" Nessa touches my top, the fabric cascading through her fingers.

"Thank you! You look gorgeous as always, Nessa, and of course I can't forget about Lucy" I wink at my friends.

"Leon, I think you're beautiful every day." Raihan turns to his boyfriend. Leon throws his head back, laughing. "Back at ya, babe."

"Let's take a photo!" Nessa calls out to her Rotom phone. The device flies in front of the group. "Okay, everyone, squeeze in together! Raihan, watch your hands!" Nessa instructs.

Flashes go off as the phone takes several photos. The phone flies back to Nessa and reveals the selection. "OOhh! I am posting this one to Pokegram!"

I take a large sip of my drink. I feel a warm buzz slither down my throat, and a shot of confidence radiates through me. I grab Lucy's hand. "Come on! We're dancing."

Lucy squeals in delight, and we run out to the dance floor. I toss my Rotom phone in the air and the device floats, following us around to take pictures. Dancers around us grind their hips to the music, ignoring the newcomers on the floor. Raihan, Nessa, and Leon join us, completing our small circle. The five of us grind our hips to the beat, laughing with one of us breaks into a silly pose. Rotom phones fly about, capturing moments for their respective users. Nessa touches my arm and snatches her phone out of the air. "Look who liked this photo of you! Milo!" She was practically bouncing up and down.

I raise my voice, "Well, we are close friends."

Nessa shakes her head. "Come now, Sophie! Get your head out of your arse!" I twirl about, ignoring Nessa. I just want to feel the music's beat, the slight buzz from alcohol, and the high of being with friends.

Time seems to disappear on the bright, musical floor. I hardly notice the gentle touch on my arm until I am spinning around and collapse into a chest. I giggle in amusement, assuming someone was about to ask me to dance. I meet their eyes and the last face I expected: Milo's. He leans close to my ear. "Nessa insisted I come. She said ya really wanted me here?" I am happy from the alcohol buzz to register what he said. I giggle loudly, grabbing Nessa's arm. "Look, Nessa! Milo's here!"

Nessa waves before turning back to dance.

"I'm fantastic tonight!" I tell the grass leader. "Do you dance?"

Milo's face flushes. "Not well."

"Sophie, take Milo to our VIP booth!" Lucy screams at me. She whispers something in Nessa's ear, and the two laugh.

"Alright, alright!" I gesture. "C'mon Milo. We should sit, no?" I stumble over my heels, almost falling. Milo catches me. I look at my waist, where his arms are connected. I feel the warmth spread from my waist. My cheeks start to flare up.

"Let me help ya." The large man says jovially.

"Probably a good idea," I murmur. I half walk/half stumble to our reserved section. "SERVER!" I yell.

"Another one, miss?" The young man smiles.

. "Absolutely!"

"And you, sir?" Milo politely declines.

"Milo! I'm so happy to see ya!" I crumble into his body, wrapping my arms around his shoulders. Milo chuckles, wrapping around my torso. "Glad to see ya too. Hope I didn't interrupt ya!"

"Of course not! The night got better!" I playfully tap the man. I think I imagine the light pink in his cheeks. "I'm glad I could make your night better!"

"Getting to look at your beautiful eyes and cute face makes me swoon!" I feel bold at my declaration, like I am on top of the world. I was not facetious at my revelation. I always thought Milo was attractive, but I couldn't place my feelings until now. I am attracted to the man. I just want to touch him." Look at your hands! My hands are small compared to yours!"

I place both of my hands on top of his. I feel a slight shock at the contact, while Milo's face is completely red.

"Umm, thanks?" Milo searches my face, trying to look for a hidden joke. He squeezes my hands before placing them back in my lap. "Maybe we should have this chat when you're sober, eh?"

A beautiful smile spreads on his face, making me feel light-headed. I take a large gulp from my drink.

With my newfound courage, I point at his face. "You're right." The room spin around.

I start to tip over, Milo's arms catch me before I land on the ground. "You feel alright?" Milo's concerned voice booms.

"Umm, the ground is moving." I laugh.

I wave goodbye to Milo and rejoin my friends, shrieking as my favorite song starts playing.

We stay for several more hours before leaving the club. The five of us stumble out into a fit of giggles walking down the cobblestone drinks late at night. Leon wraps his arms around Raihan, kissing his lips.

"oi!" Nessa taps Leon's arms. "Wait till you're both home!"

"We should split up here," Lucy suggests. "Well, ya lot. It is always a pleasure, and we should do this soon, etc."

"Wait, where's Milo?" I look around the dark, empty street.

"Oh, he left shortly after your chat. Something about getting up early" Nessa hiccups.

I feel a wave of disappointment hit me. Did I scare him off? Maybe I shouldn't have told him he had beautiful eyes. I wave goodnight to my friends, hooking my arm through Lucy's.

"Soph, what happened between you and Milo?"

"Nothing we chatted about, and he was a proper gentleman." I decide to leave out the part where I called him cute.

"That's all? I thought he would stay and dance with you a bit!" I can sense Lucy wanting to call bs.

I shrug. "I guess he is busy? Arceus isn't he is adorable!" Lucy falls silent at my unexpected remark, and we remain silent for our short walk home.

I groggily wake up, an incoming call interrupting my deep sleep. My headache worsens when I see the person on the other end: Oleana. The woman immediately demands an update from the Kalosian guy. "Are you hungover, Sophie?!" Oleana yells. "Need I remind you how unprofessional you look?"

"Oh, come now! I wasn't expecting a chat so early!" I snap back at the cold woman.

I can tell Oleana is biting her tongue. I grab a folder from my desk. "Oleana, I'm not sure what you want from him. Lysandre is reported missing and or dead. No one knows if he has an heir to his fortune! But I imagine you knew!" I raise my eyebrows.

"I'm sure this must surprise you, Sophie, but I can't keep up with every little detail happening." Oleana sarcastically remarks. "Never mind. We will go in a different direction. The Pokemon League will remain a branch of Macro Cosmos. We will talk with potential partners about some investment ideas. I will ask you to be a liaison for them. You will ensure the investors are happy."

"I would really like to go back to the Pokemon League." I firmly state.

Oleana huffs in frustration. " Unfortunately, your position was filled. We found it necessary to transfer you after your inappropriate relationship with Piers and Raihan, among other gym leaders. We can't have any representatives with personal relationships with gym leaders. It is bad pr."

Arceus, I can't stand this woman. She certainly wants me to know not to cross her.

"Also, since I have you, I have stepped down as Chairwoman. Our new Chairman is about to join this call to chat with you."

The line rings with an incoming caller. "Here he is," Oleana announces.

The screen fills with the third person. My mouth drops. Staring back at me was none other than Chairman Rose.

"Sophie, doll, it has been a while." Rose greets with his usual elastic smile.

"Chairman Rose, what an unexpected…pleasure." I drawl.

He nods. "Is it not? Oleana is responsible for my current success. The woman was relentless the last couple of months, influencing the judge and authorities to drop the charges. I wonder how difficult it was to convince the board members of Macro Cosmos to reinstate me!" He laughs, Oleana joining in.

"Well, sir, this has certainly been unexpected." I muster the sentence.

"I'm glad to see your joy on my return. I need to meet with you for lunch tomorrow. Consider it mandatory. There is much to catch up on."

Chapter 5

Last night's outing did not fully hit me until I am drinking my morning tea. My face reddens as I remember calling Milo cute. I groan in embarrassment as the scene from last night replays. He must have been trying to avoid me after I flirted with him! Nessa said he left shortly after I left him in the VIP section. Should I call and apologize? Maybe that's not the best idea since I'll probably get flustered if he answers. Oh, I know! I can text him!

I reach for my Rotom phone and stare at a blank text box, my fingers hovering above the keyboard. What should I write? I don't want to come up as desperate but rather a friend sending a casual message. I got it: Good morning! Thanks for checking on me last night! I hit send.

Good job, Sophie! My message sounds normal and friendly. I begin to sweat as I look at my phone's screen, waiting for a reply. My phone beeps as notification come through. I practically drop my phone as I snatch it from the air.

Milo: Good morning. Anytime.

I stare down at the message in confusion. Three words? I slam my head against the kitchen table. Well, I have gone and ruined my friendship with Milo. He is usually not one to be curt with his replies. I wondered if my comments were off-putting. He did look like he was trying to pull away from me when I touched his hand gently. Silly Sophie!

I suppose I should wait for a couple of days to text him. Maybe space apart will help, and then I can mend the friendship.

Milo's POV

Milo sets his phone down on the fence, finishing wrangling the gym's Wooloo. Memories of last night replay in his head: Sophie calling him cute and how she touched his hands. Milo closes his eyes to remember her soft caress and inhales. He wanted to wrap his arms around her, but it wasn't the right time, and she was drunk. Milo wants to make his confession to Sophie special, not at a random club in Hammerlocke. Besides, she had just broken up with Piers! She needs space to process her break-up, not process a love confession from her friend.

He checks the sun's position in the sky and realizes he is a bit late for training at the Turrfield gym. He gathers his phone and checks his notifications. Sophie did not reply yet. That is odd. He opens the message application and throws his head back to laugh. In the text box was an unsent message to Sophie. He must have been so preoccupied with his thoughts that he forgot to press send. He fixes his mistake before he leaves the area. Adjusting his large straw hat, he begins the short walk to the gym.

Sophie

"Good morning, Sunshine!" Lucy slides into a chair.

"Morning." I grunt.

"Last night was fantastic! I hope we can do that often. I need to destress more. So, what is on your agenda today." Lucy takes a sip of tea.

"Well, Rose is out of jail and the Chairman again. He is demanding a lunch meeting." I wrinkle my nose.

"I knew about Rose. They brought it up in yesterday's meeting. Do you have to meet? Uh, what luck!" Another sip of tea. "Oh, almost forgot! Mum called and said a letter came from Alola! Your family has been trying to reach you."

"Aunty and Selene?" I already know the answer to my question.

"Who else from Alola are you related to?" Lucy quips. "Speaking of, isn't your cousin the first Champion of Alola? You related to royalty, eh?"

"I have no idea what Selene is up to. Parents' disappearance and all. I am curious, though, why they still write? I ignore every call, message, or email." I pull my leg on a chair, beginning my morning stretches.

Lucy rolls her eyes. "Quite mature of you. They want to reconnect. Call them!"

Thank Arceus that rotom flies into the room, cutting off our conversation. " Sophie, Milo just sent you a text."

"I'll take it privately!" Lucy laughs at my red face, tossing a wink as she leaves the room.

Milo: I'm going to train at the gym and will have my phone nearby if ya ever or want to chat! Sorry, I sent ya a short message earlier! I forgot to send the follow-up. Have a great day! Milo

My face breaks into a smile at Milo's message. I must have laughed because Lucy is trying to peer over my shoulder.

"Hey!" I pull my phone away. I run to my room and shut the door. In the safety of my space, I read the message several times over.

I hit the reply tab:

Hey, you, you're so sweet for texting me. I miss you… I delete the message. I can't write that! What if he thinks I like him? Would it be so bad if he does? A small voice in my head whispers. My thoughts wander to his sweet laugh, his friendly personality, and mentoring gym challengers.

Okay, Sophie, act cool. Just type a casual message. I take a breath and start typing: Good morning! I am doing great, just a bit hungover from friends' night! I may stop by at the gym later to visit and chat! Have an excellent morning

_Sophie.

I arrive at the Captain's Table in Hulberry a bit early. I request the Chairman's table and am guided to the table with an excellent view. I take a look at the menu, looking for a plate that is quick to eat. I want this meeting to be short as possible.

"Sophie, I see you are early as well!" Rose is looking down at me. He was immaculately dressed as always.

I stand up, greeting him with a kiss on the cheek. "Chairman, it is lovely to see you again."

Rose holds me at arm's length, eyeing my form. "Just as beautiful as I remember."

I force a smile on my face, trying to hide the disgust at being called beautiful but the squeezy Rose.

We sit across from each other on the table" Let me order for us, Sophie! I know the best dishes here!"

Before I can protest, Rose motions the server over, placing the order in record time. The server disappears into the kitchen, and Rose turns his white smile on me.

"Sophie, Oleana tells me excellent things about your work ethic! I am excited to work more closely with you these next coming months."

I nod thoughtfully. " I appreciate the thought, Chairman. I am, however, concerned about when I will return to the Pokemon League."

The server comes by with a bottle of wine, interrupting our discussion. Rose waits until the server walks away to answer my question.

"My dear Sophie, didn't Oleana inform you? You will no longer be a part of the Pokemon League. It's not because you were a horrible advisor! Please rest assured of that—your inappropriate relationship with the gym leaders however-is. Not to mention being romantically involved with a former gym leader! Elise is an excellent replacement!"

"Wait, Elise?" I am surprised by his revelation. Well, that explains her cold demeanor!

Rose nods. "Yes, I'm sorry you found out like this. You trained her well. She is an excellent pr advisor. Let's talk about your future at Macro Cosmos. I want you to be our Director of Investor Liaisons. I want you in charge of taking care of our potential investors. You will meet them at the airport, accompany them to battles, and show them Galar if needed."

"So basically, I am a glorified tour guide?" My voice raises in exasperation.

"No! You are the Director of Investor Liaisons!" Rose protests.

I let out a small huff. That certainly sounds like a made-up title to pacify my feelings.

"You're very beautiful, Sophie. You're going to be the face of Macro Cosmos!" Rose brushes his thumbs on mine.

Is he hitting on me? I compose myself. "Sounds amazing."

Rose chuckles in excitement. His conversation flows into the job's specifics, but I tune him out, thinking of anything other than the man sitting in front of me. I hate working for Macro Cosmos and certainly Rose. How did I fall this far? Growing up, I wanted to be a trainer or professor. I even planned on training with Professor Magnolia after I graduated from school. Life took a different turn, forcing me to find a job shortly after I graduated. I didn't want to impose on Lucy's mom, regardless of her offer to let me stay. My thoughts are interrupted by a young woman's voice: Nessa.

"Sophie! Hello, I didn't know you would be in Hulberry." Nessa approaches the table. Her smile falls when she spots Rose.

"Nessa, how are you!" Rose's fake enthusiasm greets the gym leader.

"Just doing some shopping for my next photoshoot…When did you get released?" The color in her eyes darken.

"Why, just a couple of days ago! I thought I would surprise all of you in a meeting. Unfortunately, the secret is out." Rose guffaws.

"I see." Nessa coldly answers. "I must be off. Sophie, message me later?"

I nod my answer, and she quickly runs out of the restaurant.

"Nice to see her again. I would like to discuss your current relationship with her and the others. If you are to work with Macro Cosmos in any form, you will keep your relationship with any member of the Pokemon League professional. Perhaps it's time to end the friendships, no?" Rose smiles as he informs me to end our friendship.

I feel something inside of me break. All of the gym leaders have been crucial to my life for the last six months. They were supportive during my stay in the hospital. I consider them family, and I wouldn't cut them out of my life so easily. I come up with a lie. "Of course, Chairman. Anything for the company."

Chapter 6

Milo's POV

Milo recalls Cottonee to her Pokeball. "Great battle Leah!" Milo beams at the gym trainer. "Keep it up, and I might just recommend ya for Hammerlocke gym trainer!"

Leah glows from her boss's compliment. "Thanks, boss. I don't think I would like workin' with Raihan as much as I like workin' with ya."

"Although he is easier to look at!" A nearby trainer teases Milo, causing the whole room to erupt in laughter.

"Well, at least ya won't be washing sand out of your hair every match!" Milo quips.

"Boss! While we have yer attention, I have some ideas about the gym challenge. What if yamperts were added to the first challenge? Might make herding the Wooloo more interesting." Leah suggests.

"Well, well, looks like I get to see you sad lot today." A melodic voice shouts from the entrance to the challenging field.

"Nessa!" The gym trainers greet in unison, some even forming hearts in their eyes as the beautiful woman glides past them.

"Oi, Nessa" Milo wraps his arms around his friend. "Fancy seeing you here!"

"Thought I would come by. I asked Sophie to meet after her meeting."

Milo pulls his hat over his eyes, hiding his growing blush. "That's good, I suppose."

Nessa's amused eyes search Milo's. "Why haven't you had your daily Sophie fill?"

Leah approaches the two. "Oi, didn't she used to be the pr girl? What happened to her? Also, boss, what is Nessa talkin' about?"

Milo's face darkens. Nessa giggles at the grass-leader's current state while a slow smile of realization grows on Leah's face.

"Boss, yer sweet on her? It's about time! I bet she is a sweetheart!"

"She is. Too bad that bloke Rose is using her." Nessa growls.

Milo removes the hat from his eyes. "Using her?"

Nessa bites her tongue. "I'll let her tell you."

Milo's brows furrow in confusion. What is going on with Sophie, and how is Rose involved? Milo never liked the guy, considering whenever the former Chairman visited the Turrfield gym, it was to admonish Milo for his laid-back approach to battling challengers. Rose even demoted Milo to the minor leagues, but Milo refused to compromise his values.

The side door of the arena opens. Sophie sliding through with a small smile on her face. Milo knew from her smile she had a rough day. The blond-haired woman wordlessly walks up to Nessa and him, waving at a couple of trainers that greet her. Leah backs away and heads to the locker room to give Milo space to talk to his crush.

"Hi, Sophie." Milo crushes her against his chest. She wraps her arms around his torso, her head resting on his chest. A small sigh escapes her as she pulls away, turning to greet Nessa with a small hug.

"I had lunch with Chairman Rose today." Sophie blurts the news.

"Rose? Wait, he's back?" Milo glances between Nessa and Sophie.

"Yea." Sophie sighs. "He is the same arse I remember. Oleana helped him get out of prison and reinstated as Chairman of Macro Cosmo! Quite a lunch I had with him. Between demoting me to a glorified tour guide for foreign investors to prohibiting me from being around the gym leaders." Sophie's eyes roll as Nessa raises a curious eyebrow. "Oh, he did! The wanker told me I had to end my relationships with anyone in the Pokemon League! It would be a conflict of interest!"

Milo feels his heart cry out for the woman. He knew she would never abandon her friends and will ignore Rose's request. Rose would surely make her life hell. As he looks at the beautiful woman, he wishes he could take her pain away.

"Bloody, ignore him!" Nessa roars. "What a proper arse! I am so glad Sonia dumped that bitch. I knew she was up to no good!" Milo lays a large hand on his friend's shoulder for calm.

Nessa takes a shaky breath. "Don't you listen to a word he says, Sophie! We will keep our meetings discreet so that you won't get in trouble." Nessa rubs my arm.

Sophie groans. "Arceus, I hate this job more and more every day! Maybe I need to move on…" her eyes trail to the new course on the floor. "Is this the gym challenge? Can I try?" Her eyes sparkle in hope.

Sophie

I hold my hands in front of my chest, a silent plea to Milo. I can see his resolve beginning to crumble. "Pretty please, Milo?" I widen my eyes to my best Pikachu face.

"Alright! Go and stand on the square at the front." Milo breaks into a grin while Nessa titters behind her hand. I skip to the front of the field, releasing Gigi. The Gengar spins in the air, looking around in excitement. Milo looks like he wants to say something when Gigi appears, but he bites his tongue. After briefly going over the rules of the challenge, he signals a trainer to ring the bell. I move after the sound, looking at the Wooloo gathered in a clump to the left of me. "Alright, Gigi, I will go left of them while you go to the right. Will lead them to the end."

Gigi flips and laughs, moving in the direction I point her to. I take a deep breath and begin sprinting to the group of Wooloo. I expect them to move away and towards Gigi but am surprised when they go straight. The group breaks into smaller packs, rolling to different parts of the field.

"Arceus!" I yell in frustration as I hear laughter from the side. Okay, Sophie, this is fine! I just need to rethink my strategy. I signal Gigi to go to the farthest Wooloo pack while I approach the Wooloos near the wall. We can roll our group of Wooloos to the end of the field and keep repeating the action with the others.

I am finally down to the last group. Gigi floats towards them, but the wooloo are stubborn, bleating at the ghost pokemon. Gigi lets out a haunting Scary Face, and the Wooloo jump in fright and begin rolling. I hear Milo's voice in the distance but can't make out the words since the Wooloo are rolling towards me.

I scream, running as fast as I can from the group. The Wooloo somehow wants to chase me, angry bleats erupting from their bodies. I jump into a large bale of hay with a scream.

Nessa's laugh sounds from across the field. The model must be practically rolling on the floor in hysterics.

"Sophie! Are ya alright?" I see large hands in front of me and grab them. Milo lifts me to my feet and starts brushing the hay off my body. "Ya okay?"

I only nod in shock. He chuckles and reaches his hand out. I feel large fingers brush against my cheek as his face draws closer to mine. My heart jumps at his closeness, and I feel the now familiar spark between us. He pulls something from my hair. I look down at his hand at a piece of straw. "Uh, thanks." I manage.

"When is the last time you and Gigi trained?" Milo asks.

"Umm, probably years ago?" I answer.

"I see. The reason I ask ya is that my challenge Wooloo isn't used to pokemon using Scary Face. Most challenger pokemon chase them. When did she learn Scary Face?" I hardly remember my training days, let alone when Gigi learned her battle moves. I don't want to look stupid in front of him, so I just smile and nod.

Milo chuckles at my reaction, and his face contorts in a cute smile.

"Uhh, Sophie?" I hadn't noticed Nessa's approach. She gestures down at the back of my thighs. I twist my head around to see what she is pointing at. "Dear Arceus!"

Milo spots the Wooloo dung stain and quickly turns around. I will say one thing about the large man; he is a gentleman. "Umm, Vic? Could you take Sophie to the showers and get her an extra uniform to wear?"

Vic motions me to follow them. I wave goodbye to Nessa and Milo before leaving. "Well, I am going home after. I will message you!" I could die of embarrassment.

2 months later

The following two months pass in a blink of an eye. I am kept busy at Macro Cosmos, hardly having time to spend with Lucy or my other friends. I manage to spend a morning or two with Milo and Nessa, but once Rose found out I was ignoring his request, he threw more work tasks my way. I had to settle for a quick call or text with my friends during my lunch hour or before bed. My feelings for Milo grew stronger in those months. It is clear that my feelings toward the grass-leader were not due to wanting a rebound. Arceus, if I can only get away long enough to tell him! Unfortunately, I was calling investors, filling out paperwork, and showing a foreign investor the Galar gyms on rare occasions.

One early evening as I am wrapping up my work for the day, Chairman Rose asks for a meeting. I walk into his office to notice familiar long purple hair in a chair: Leon. I had not seen the former Champion in months, and it takes all my self-control not to run and hug him. Leon beams when he sees a silent greeting passing between us.

"Sit," Rose commands.

I sit in the chair closest to the door.

"Sophie and Leon, good evening! Now I assume both of you don't know why I called you here?" The two of us shake our heads. "Well, first, may I just commend you both on a spectacular job these last months! You both have played a crucial part in piquing our investors' interest in Macro Cosmos and the Galar Pokemon League. You both have my deep gratitude." I try not to vomit at his praise.

The Chairman continues. " I think I should finally let you both into the inner circle." Oleana nods behind him. "Sophie, I need you as my personal pr agent. I am planning something magnificent-a large project if you will. I need you to deflect the media from sniffing around in this secret project too much, Sophie." Rose shifts his gaze to Leon. "and Leon, my boy! I need your skills as a top-tier trainer."

I speak up. "Chairman, what is this plan?"

"Why, I plan on acquiring Necrozma, my dear girl."

Leon's face drops. I can tell this Necrozma is bad news. "Necrozma?"

Rose smiles. "Yes, Necrozma, the pokemon that infamously caused darkness on the Alola islands hundreds of years ago. See, if I have this unique pokemon, other pokemon will follow it. "

Leon interrupts. "Chairman, you are talking about releasing UBS on Galar!"

"Not yet, my boy! I just am missing one key person: Sophie's cousin." I feel shivers run down my spine.

Leon looks at me. "You're cousin."

I nod slowly. "Yes, my cousin Selene, the champion of Alola. I will have no part of this!"

Rose frowns. "This isn't a request."

"I understand. The answer is still no."

"I would tread carefully right now, young lady."

I shake my head, stealing my resolve.

Rose leans back and smirks. "Why don't you take the next couple of days off? Think about my offer and get back to me."

I squeeze my fists. "The answer is still going to remain the same."

"Good evening Ms. Claire." Rose dismisses me.

I stand up loudly pushing my chair back, and walk out the door, not bothering to say goodbye to Leon. Not the most graceful way to exit, but it got my point across, nonetheless. I don't stop to think until I am on the train to Hammerlocke.

I sigh and lean back against the train seat. Is Rose trying to take Lee and me down with him? He must be drinking poison powder if he thinks I would drag Selene into this nonsense~ Either way, I will hide or run if I have to. I will take a couple of days to relax and unwind and then form a plan to escape the evil man.

When I arrive home, Lucy isn't there. I find her note on the fridge about her date with James. Swallowing my disappointment of not having a much-needed best friend night, I settle into my pajamas and head to the sitting area. I release Gigi from her Pokeball.

"What movie shall we watch, Gigi? You up for a comedy?"

Gigi chuckles. She grabs the remote, browsing until she finds her favorite movie.

"How did I know you would pick that movie?"

"GAR!" Gigi bounces up and down in excitement.

"Fine! You win!" I throw my hands up in defeat. Gigi presses play and lay back on the couch. I go to the kitchen for some popcorn and a bag of candy. I sneak a couple of candy pieces since Gigi will eat the majority of the snacks.

My Rotom phone flies in front of my face with a new message from Milo.

Milo: I am in Hammerlocke, and I would really love to see ya tonight. May I come by? I have a takeout from your favorite Kalosian bakery!

The Butterfrees flutter in my stomach. I haven't seen Milo in months and only chatted by text. I feel excitement bubble up in my stomach as I reply yes. "Oh darn! I'm in my PJs, and my hair is a mess! He will probably be here in five minutes! Uhh! I guess this will have to do!" I motion to my current messy state.

I set a pot of tea on the stove. By the time the whistle blows, the doorbell rings.

"I'm coming!" I yell. I unlatch the door.

"Milo? Hi!" I take down my bun and shake my hair out. That should be better!

Milo is in his usual gym uniform. He must have been battling Raihan earlier. I can't help but notice his muscular build or his wind-swept hair. He is also wearing the sweetest smile. "Milo? Why don't you come in? We are about to watch a movie."

"Thank you. I brought enough food for five. Is Lucy here?" Milo looks towards my friend's room.

I walk into the kitchen. "No, she is on a date. I am not sure if she will be back tonight." I grab two mugs.

I walk into the living room where Milo is sitting next to Gigi. She is watching the movie, oblivious to anyone's presence. "I am going to go change out of these clothes."

Milo shakes his head. "No, you look great."

I blush." Alright then, let's eat! What did you bring?"

We sit down with our containers of food and watch the movie. The movie lasts for about an hour, and once it is finished, Gigi grabs a container of poke puffs and disappears into my room.

"Gigi doesn't eat all of them!" My voice carries through the house. I hope the Gengar hears me, but I am sure I will find an empty container and a sick pokemon later. Milo laughs at Gigi's antics. "Thank you for the take-out." I smile.

"Anytime"

"So…. Hi!" I am at a loss for words. I feel like I am in grade school again trying to talk to a crush. I gulp air and scoot closer to Milo.

Milo sits his large hat on my coffee table. "It's a bit hot in here, eh?" He reaches for his collar and pulls on the fabric near his neck

"I can turn the heat down?" I offer.

Milo shakes his head. "No, it's fine."

Milo's leg brushes against mine. " Umm, Soph, I need to tell you something." He pauses for a moment. " I like you as more than a friend. I think you're beautiful. Would you like to go on a date with me?" He utters the words quickly. I feel my heart beat faster as the tips of his ears turn red.

I calm my racing heart and try to hide my red face. "I feel the same. I would love to go on a date with you.

Milo breaks into a grin. "Really?"

"Yes!"

Milo is practically jumping in excitement about my answer. You would think I announced him as The Champion.

I break the silence. "Okay then. Want to watch another movie?"

Milo wraps an arm behind me. "Another movie sounds fantastic."

My legs curl underneath me, and I'm trying not to embarrass myself in front of Milo. Milo is covering his mouth with his hand, a small laugh escaping his lips.

"You have a bit of something on your chin." Milo's thumb grazes my chin.

"Thanks." I turn towards the telly, hoping Milo did not see my pink cheeks.

I lean my body into his large frame, snuggling into his side. I hear an intake of breath and an arm wraps around my shoulder. I take a peek at his face, admiring how his freckles dance when he laughs. Milo feels my stare and places his eyes on mine. I have never seen such beautiful green eyes until now. His gaze flicks back and forth between my lips and eyes. I inch closer, hoping Milo will close the distance between us. He moves his face closer, tilting it to the side. He stops halfway, his breath a whisper on my lips. "Sophie, can I kiss ya?"

"Yes"

Milo closes the distance, placing his lips on my own. His kiss is a gentle caress patiently exploring my lips. I kiss him back tenderly, conveying my feelings with the touch. The kiss ends too soon. Milo pulls away, touching my forehead with his own. His eyes glow with joy. My heart is thumping madly, and I lean in to peck his lips. He follows my lips when I pull away, pulling me into him as he prolongs our kiss. We share a couple of pecks before I lay on his chest.

"I have wanted to do that for a long time. " Milo kisses my forehead.

My eyes began to feel heavy, and when I open them again, the movie credits are rolling. "I fell asleep? I'm sorry, Milo!"

"It's alright. You're cute when ya asleep."

I sit upon my elbows. "You watched?" I wink at the grass leader.

"Sorry! You were just so cute, and…I am just happy you're finally in my arms, okay? Umm…when is your next day off?"

" tomorrow"

" Want to go on that date with me?" Milo's hand strokes my hair.

"Of course."

"Meet me in Turrfield tomorrow afternoon?" Milo lifts my hand to my lips. Arceus, I may fall in love with this man!

Intermission

Leon's POV

Leon watches Sophie leave Rose's office. He curses under his breath, wishing she hadn't left him alone with Rose and Oleana. Rose turns back to the former Champion. "Oleana, check in with her in the following days. I am sure she won't say no."

Oleana starts writing something on her Poke Tablet.

"Chairman, if I may interject, I don't think she will change her mind." Leon states.

"I am aware of your friendship with her, Leon, but I have known her longer than you. The girl is a ruthless Sharpedo! Before I was jailed, she would work long hours to ensure I had privacy from any prying eyes. Sophie is a woman who loves to work. The job comes first."

Leon shakes his head. "With all due respect, sir, you and I know two different girls."

Rose's eyes darken. "Well, perhaps you're right, but that is why I have kept her from the gym leaders. I need her focused on her job."

Leon is aghast at the Chairman's logic. The level he is willing to get Sophie back is insane! Why did Rose care so much about her? Isn't there other pr advisors at Macro Cosmos? Leon is sure Rose could find another employee that can clear a path for whatever dark deed he desires.

Something in Leon's mind clicks. "I have a couple of questions: Why involve me, and is your sudden interest in Sophie have anything to do with her cousin?"

Rose flashes his white teeth. "Right perceptive of you! It is said that the Alolan champion caught Necrozma five years ago and saved the Alolan isles. It is said that Necrozma yields unmeasurable power when combined with Lunala and Solgaleo, opening a portal to dimensions. Dimensions with ultra-beasts, my boy! Guess what other pokemon chose Selene as her trainer? Solgaleo."

Leon tries to wrap his head around Rose's confession. "So, you plan to use its power…?"

"To power Galar!"

Leon groans internally. His assumption about the Chairman's plan is correct. The man planned to recreate The Darkest Day all over again. Why tell Leon? Didn't Chairman Rose realize he would try to stop him? Necrozma must have poisoned Rose if he really thinks Leon will help him with his plan! He would have no part in whatever plan the Chairman was brewing. "Count me out." Leon stands and walks for the door.

"Very well. I warn you that if you try to tell anyone I…"

Leon angrily whirls around. " I don't plan just to tell anyone, Rose; I plan to stop you."

Milo's POV

Earlier in the day…

Milo is tense. He had been for the last several weeks, and it had everything to do with a certain blond woman. It's not like Milo hadn't chatted with Sophie the last month, he had via text, but it wasn't enough to satisfy him. He wants to see Sophie, to touch her, to confess to her. What if she doesn't feel the same? Milo leans his head against the wall in frustration.

"There you are! I wanted to thank you for being a great partner-as always!" Nessa's bright smile greets the grass leader.

"You as well, Nessa. The tough first round of battles, though, eh?" Milo faces his best friend.

"Well, we were up against Raihan and Leon." Nessa shrugs. "It was still fun. This Galarian Star Tournament was a brilliant idea."

Milo merely nods, looking off into the distance. Nessa playfully elbows him. "What's going on with you, big guy?"

"I just miss Sophie." Milo sighs.

Nessa leans against the wall. "Me too. Have you chatted with her?"

"Yes, I just need to see her."

"Well then, do it!"

Milo snaps his head to Nessa. "What?"

"Milo, I love you dearly, and I hope you take this advice: Go for it! Tell her how you feel. I think she feels the same!"

"See her right now?" Milo furrows his brows.

"yes, now!" Nessa commands.

Milo catches a Corviknight taxi outside of the Wyndon Stadium to Hammerlocke. Before he can even blink, he is in front of Sophie's door with a bag of Kalosian takeout.

The door closes behind the grass leader. Milo's face breaks into a dopey smile. He can hardly believe this night happened. His hand trails up to his lips, the memory of his first kiss with Sophie flooding his senses. Arceus, her lips were soft! He must rush home to begin preparing for tomorrow for his date with Sophie. He smiles as he boards the taxi. He is the happiest man in all of Galar. Motioning to his Rotom phone, he dials Nessa's number to tell her the news.

Chapter 7

The following morning, Lucy and I are squealing with delight.

"I can't believe James asked you to marry him!" I grab my friend's hands and bounce up and down.

Lucy laughs in delight. "I know! Of course, you are going to be my maid of honor!"

"Absolutely!" I reply. "Let me see the ring again!"

I grab Lucy's hand and admire the glittering diamond on Lucy's hand. The band was a simple white gold, and the diamond was shaped like a heart. The stone shines in the early morning sun, changing colors as Lucy twirls her hand.

"It is so beautiful!" I sigh dreamily.

"Right!" Lucy nods. "I can hardly believe you are going on a date with Milo. Perhaps soon you will have your own ring to show, eh?"

"Lucy!" My cheeks flare-up. "It's a date, not a marriage proposal."

Lucy giggles. "Alright! What are you wearing on your date?"

I opt to wear a white lace dress with pink flowers. I touch the soft fabric, fiddling with the hem as the taxi nears Turrfield. I feel nervous and jittery as the cab lands on the green land. Milo is my best friend, but somehow it feels like I am about to meet him. How should I act? Oh, Arceus, what did he think of my kissing? I keep replaying my kiss with Milo over in my head. The heat rushes to my face as I remember the feel of his lips on mine.

I walk the steps to the quaint farmhouse, each step increasing the fluttering in my stomach. I knock on the door, and Milo opens the door with a beautiful smile. "Sophie, you look beautiful."

I blush. "Thanks. You as well." Milo is wearing a pair of jeans and a button-down shirt. He is wearing his large straw hat, his pink curls peeking out underneath the brim. I am interrupted from my ogling by a gentle touch on my hand. Milo lifts my right hand to his lips, pressing a kiss to my knuckles.

"What is the plan?" I squeak.

"It's a surprise." Milo intertwines our fingers and grabs a basket by the door. He gently pulls me down the pathway, past a herd of Wooloo and a colorful field of flowers.

A beautiful breeze greets us as we walk along the main road. People and Pokemon are walking about, completing daily tasks. All the townsfolk greet Milo, barely paying attention to my presence. "Don't worry. No one will say anything." Milo whispers in my ear. He waves to a passing man.

" So, the rumors are true? You are the most loved man in all of Turrfield?" I tease the farmer.

"I guess? I'm just friendly to everyone." Milo's attention is pulled away by a woman and some kids down the road. The mother looks like she is carrying quite a heavy load of supplies. Milo releases my hand and runs to assist the mom. My heart glows as I watch the man take the bags from the woman and follow her down the road. Arceus, Milo has such an amazing heart! He is incredible!

Milo returns after a couple of minutes. "Sorry about that. I was helping Grace carry some bags." Milo squeezes my hand apologetically.

"Don't you dare apologize! I thought it was the sweetest thing." I smile.

Milo's face reddens. "Thank you? Grace's husband left her years back, and it is just her and the kids."

My heart flutters. I really want to kiss this man right now! Giving in to temptation, I stand on my toes and kiss his cheek.

Milo's flush deepens. He clears his throat and looks out into a field.

"You're just sweet. I had the urge to kiss you." I meet his emerald eyes and wink.

"Feel free to kiss me whenever you want." Milo chuckles.

"We're here." Milo points at a patch of tall grass.

I raise my eyebrows in confusion. Milo's grin grows wider than a Meowth's. "You're going to catch your very first grass-type pokemon!"

I giggle. I never caught a grass-type pokemon as a trainer, opting for normal and ghost types. I always wanted to add a grass-type to my team, but I always thought they would be a difficult pokemon type to train. I must have told this story to Milo at some point in the last two years.

I whirl on my heels and wrap my arms around his neck. "Milo, this is so sweet!"

"You like it?" He buries his face in my hair, planting a kiss on the top.

"Of course!" I can hardly contain my excitement at the idea.

I squeal as Milo lifts me off the ground and spins around. He sets me down on the floor with another kiss on my head.

"What is that for?" I ask with a laugh.

"Because you're cute" Milo wraps his arms around my waist and pulls me closer.

I look at the grass and try to spot a pokemon. I wonder what I am going to catch? Perhaps a Cottonee or a Steenee?

A Pokeball materializes in Milo's hand. "Ready?" He pushes the metal ball into my hand.

As if by magic, a Cherrim rustles in the grass. A Cherrim! I search my brain, trying to remember how to throw a Pokeball when the Cherrim notices us properly. The small pokemon squeaks in delight, hopping towards me. The pokemon playfully swipes my legs.

"Looks like she likes ya." Milo laughs.

"Why wouldn't she?" I return the laugh. The Cherrim moves to the grass and peers back at me.

"She wants ya to catch her." Milo's voice is near my ear. I feel large arms wrap around my waist while the other arm engulfs the hand holding the Pokeball. I lean into his chest as he lifts my arm slightly, motioning to throw the ball. The Cherrim is sucked into a ray of light. The Pokeball drops and shakes once, twice, thrice, and clicks. I jump out of Milo's arms to grab the ball. "I caught her!" I exclaim in delight.

"Ya did."

I jump up in excitement. "I must admit getting my own private lesson from a cute gym leader makes me feel special." I bat my eyelashes at Milo.

Milo's face turns cheri red, and he coughs, "Anytime."

I walk towards him and pull his hand into mine. "What's next?"

"How about a picnic?" Milo shows me the basket in his hand.

"Sounds romantic. What is for lunch?" We walk down a small hill to a beautiful clearing with a pond in the middle. Milo pulls out a couple of small pans and starts a small campfire " I was thinking my specialty, Sweet and Sour Curry."

"That sounds amazing! Let me help." I grab some berries from a nearby tree.

Milo waves me away. "You sit down. I need some eye candy."

I giggle. "Eye candy, eh? If I didn't know better, sir, I would say you were trying to flirt with me!

Milo winks. "What gave me away?"

Milo places a blanket near a small pond. I sit on the blanket and release Cherrim from her Pokeball.

"Hello, little one!" I stroke her head gently. "I need to name you, don't I? How about…Beri?" The Cherrim hops in agreement.

"I think she likes it." Milo glances down at the pokemon.

I am lying on the blanket with Milo watching the clouds. Beri is sleeping nearby, already tired out from her playful frolic with Gigi.

"I hope you are not missing a day at the gym." I don't want him to take a day off on account of me.

"Don't worry about the gym. That's my job." Milo grabs my hand, bringing it to his eye level. He kisses my fingers. His fingers stroke up to my elbow, sending shivers up my spine.

I blush at his tenderness. His lips are on my wrist. He rolls over on his side to look down at me. His hat has fallen off, and his pink waves were being tossed in the wind. His green eyes meet my violet ones. "Everything okay?"

I rub my thumb on his. "Yea, just enjoying being with you."

Milo cups my cheek with his hand. " Same. I am happy you said yes to a date."

I nuzzle into his hand. "Get used to it. I think I might say yes to another one."

Milo leans down and brushes my lips with his. "Really?"

"Um-hmm. I think I might have a crush on you." I grab his shirt and pull his mouth on mine. I kiss him tenderly. Milo lets me set the pace, moving his lips against mine. One arm rests next to my shoulder while his hand holds my cheek. I wrap my arms around his back, feeling the muscles underneath the fabric. He pulls away, laying down on his back. He brings my head with him, placing it on his chest.

"I think you're the most beautiful woman in all of Galar. " Milo confesses. My heart thumps wildly.

"You should see yourself," I mumble into his chest.

We spend the entire afternoon in each other's arms, watching the clouds roll by and occasionally chatting. The afternoon comes to an end quickly, and we are packing up to head back to Turrfield. Milo intertwines our fingers as we walk back to Turrfield. "You are affectionate, eh?" I ask with amusement.

"I just want to shower you with affection." Milo's ears are red as we walk.

My heart sinks as I look ahead and see a reporter and a cameraman. The reporter soon reveals to be Gillian. My face pails at the sight of her. She is looking toward Turrfield, not noticing us. Everything comes flooding back- the comments Gillian made about Piers' photo and me last year- the same photo Tommy sent to the media. Tommy! Memories of that horrific night come back, and my chest tightens. I start hyperventilating and try to concentrate on my breathing.

"Sophie?" Milo pulls me off to the side behind a tree. I see his face through my haze of tears. When did I start to cry? Milo's face is full of concern. "Sophie?"

"I'm here," I manage to whisper. Milo's thumbs wipe the tears off my face. "What can I do?"

"Just be with me." I muster. Milo touches my forehead with him, mirroring his breaths with mine. We stay like this for a couple of minutes until I am ready to walk. He keeps one arm around his waist as we walk back to his house. "Do you want to share what happened back there?" Milo quietly asks.

"I'm not ready to talk about it yet."

Milo accepts my answer, choosing to talk about a different topic.

I order a Corviknight taxi, and Milo starts walking with me towards the road. The cabby is there by the time we arrive. I crash my lips to Milo for a goodbye kiss.

"Sophie, would you like to go on another date?"

"Yes. I'll text you sometime this week when I know my work schedule."

Our lips meet for a final time before I step on the cab and fly off into the night sky.

Chapter 8

"Lucy, you here?" I call out to an empty room. I hadn't seen my best friend in a couple of days and thought I would surprise her with some takeout.

". Do I smell takeout?" Lucy bounces into the room.

"I thought we could eat and catch up." I hand her a take-out box.

"Girl after my own heart, eh?" She takes a small bite of her food. "How was your date with Milo?"

"Fine." A bashful smile creeps on my face.

"Just fine, eh? That smile says otherwise! Come on, Soph, spill!"

"He was a perfect gentleman." I coyly reply, taking a bite of bread to hide my darkening cheeks.

Lucy pouts. "You're no fun. Fine, then I guess I have no choice but to give you details about my dates with James."

"I rather not!" I tease her.

"Oh, come now! That's why you're my best friend!" She chuckles as she pokes me with her finger.

My Rotom phone buzzes with an incoming message. Looking down at the screen, my heart drops: Piers's name is flashing at me.

Sighing, I mentally prepare for the message contents. In the back of my head, I knew what Piers is texting me about. It's a conversation I have dreaded for the last several weeks.

I don't like how we left things. Can I call ya tonight?

"Who is it?" Lucy asks.

"Piers." I study the message over and over as if the screen will morph at any moment.

Lucy hums in surprise and looks over my shoulder. " Umm, alright? I thought you broke up with him?" She studies the worry on my face. "Regardless, I'll give you privacy. Tell me if you need me, alright?"

Lucy pauses before she retreats to her room. "Oh, by the way, your maid of honor dress fitting is next Tuesday. "

I wave her off with a hand and stare down at my phone. I don't feel the usual excitement; I feel Piers would ring. I just feel the unease of telling him I don't want to get back together. Maybe I should tell him I am dating Milo now, but I'm not sure what my relationship status is with the farmer. Steeling myself, I request a video chat with the rock singer.

Familiar eyeliner-lined eyes fill my phone screen. Blue-green widen at the sight of me, a silent string of expletives flowing out of the caller's mouth. It seems I wasn't the only person dreading this call.

"Hey, Soph." Piers graces me with a small smile.

"Hi, Piers." A hint of sadness seeps from my voice.

"So, uh, how ya been?" Piers's eyes shift away.

"Alright, I suppose. Just trying to keep away from Rose." I answer plainly.

"I heard he's back. Good on ya for not puttin' up with him." Piers chuckles.

"Uh, thanks, I suppose." I break into an awkward laugh. "So, you asked to chat?"

Piers slowly nods. "Ai. I just want to apologize about not givin' ya what you want. I wish I would have listene' to ya about movin' in together. I wanted to give you more, and I still do; ya deserve more. I just don't know if I will be ready for that type of stuff. I want to be with ya if ya want to give it another go."

I feel an arrow pierce through my heart. I knew what I had to tell Piers, but I did not relish the thought. "Piers…I love you. I will always love you. You were the first man I fell for, and for that, you will always have a place in my heart. However, I don't think it will work between us-romantically, at least. I can't ask you to sacrifice your dreams to make mine, and I don't think you want to ask the same of me." I pause. "Can we just go back to being friends?"

I think I see tears in the corner of Piers's eyes. I can't imagine the thoughts that are running through his head at the moment. He coughs into his fist before replying. "Alrigh' then. I would like that- friends." Tears spill over my cheeks, and the two of us sit in silence, tears and all.

I sniff and clear my throat. "So, tell me everything. How have you been the last several months? How's Gordie?

We spend the next hour chatting about Piers's adventures in Unova. The different shows he performed and the unique fans he met. He and Gordie are still together, somehow miraculously, he admits. However, he hasn't met another girl yet, since none of them can even hold a candle to me.

At the end of our chat, I admit to going on one date with Milo. Piers was surprising, not shocked. When I hung up on our chat later in the evening, I felt a flicker of warmth inside of me. Perhaps things will start looking up.

A knock on the door and a simultaneous ring from my Rotom phone wake me. I sit up in confusion. Gigi and Beri stir from their sleep, annoyed by the noise.

"Gigi, go see who is at the front," I command the pokemon. Gigi grumbles as she disappears into the wall. I shift my eyes to my Rotom to see numerous missed chats and messages. Oleana has apparently been trying to get into contact with me. Curiosity gets the better of me as I open my messenger app.

Oleana: 6 am- Sophie, the Chairman, has requested a meeting with you when you arrive at work when you come in today.

6:45 am- The Chairman is requesting you arrive early. Be here by 7:30.

7:20-I will be coming by to your place. I should ensure you arrive at the important meeting.

7:30- Sophie, I am at your house and can't seem to get an answer. Will you be coming out?

Arceus! Oleana is at my door! Gigi appears. "Is it Oleana?" I ask with dread.

Gigi wiggles a reply. Yes, Oleana is at the door. I look down at my digital clock:7:40,

Oleana has been standing at my door for over ten minutes!? With rising panic, I jump out of my bed and quickly get dressed. I grab a bag and start throwing clothes and necessities in.

I return Gigi and Beri into their Poke balls, not bothering to pack some food for the two pokemon. I quietly run to the kitchen and write a note to Lucy, explaining what is happening and promising I will call when I arrive at whatever random location I chose. I knew at that moment that if Rose and Oleana know where I live, they will not stop harassing Lucy until I agree to their plan. I pull the bag strap over my shoulder and slip out the back door. I run through the back streets of Hammerlocke, not stopping until I reach the large train station.

I stand in front of the departure screen, wondering how it had gotten to this point. Perhaps I should turn back and face Oleana. I shake the thought from my head. The only thing I know right now is to run. I need to decompress far away from Hammerlocke. I spy a town on the departure screen and stomp over to a ticket machine. Once I buy my train ticket, I walk on the platform, finding my train with little trouble. I collapse on the first seat I find, staring out the window. I hear the train whistleblowing and the metallic clang of the wheels underneath. With a jolt, my train leaves the station and picks up pace.

My Rotom Phone beeps with an incoming call: Oleana. I roll my eyes and hit the ignore button. My phone buzzes again with an incoming call: Oleana. I sigh and power the phone down, concentrating on the passing Galar landscape. Once I got into Wedgehurst, I would figure out my next step.

Night falls on the small village as I step off the train. Wedgehurst is dark and quiet, save for the Poke Center's bright lights and a couple of cottages. Begin to imagine my life living in a small cottage, sitting by the door as the sun rises in the morning. Perhaps a Wooloo or two would be nearby, wandering about the town before everyone wakes up.

I power up Rotom, and he notifies me of a missed message. Apparently, Oleana has not given up trying to contact me.

Sophie, if you do not contact me soon, I will have no choice but to consider this your resignation.

Thank Arceus, for that! Is this the end of Rose and Oleana for me? I worry they will try something more drastic for my attention, but I celebrate my small victory for now.

"Sophie?" A woman's voice calls out. I spin around, squinting in the darkness to look for the owner of the voice. A red-haired woman in a lab coat moves underneath the light.

"Sonia?" I inquire.

"Hey! What brings you to Wedgehurst?" Sonia asks.

"Oh, I took the train from Hammerlocke."

Sonia doesn't pry further. "Well, it is nice to see you! Why don't you come to the lab, and we can have a proper catch-up?"

The lab is a short distance from the station. It is the largest building in town, and I can hardly imagine having difficulty finding it—the lights from the building flood the dirt road in front.

We walk into the building, and I am immediately taken back by the place's sheer size. In the back corner of the building, large screens display some type of data. In front of the monitors is a tall purple-haired man writing something on a tablet.

"Hop, we have a visitor!" Sonia cheerily calls.

The young man flashes a toothy grin.

"Sophie, I don't know if you remember Hop? He is my lab assistant and a professor-to-be. His dissertation is on The Dynamax Phenomena and its connection to Mega Evolution."

" Sonia always introduces me like that. It isn't the least embarrassing!" Hop jokes. "You're Sophie, the pr person, right? My brother and Raihan talk about you a lot!"

" That's me! Kind of your brother and Raihan to speak of me so highly." A high-pitched laugh escapes my lips. I quickly change the subject before I embarrass myself further. "May I ask what you are doing?"

Hop's eyes glow, and he begins to talk about his research excitedly. He had just gotten back from the Isle of Armor. The Isle of Armor has Dynamax dens with rare pokemon from other regions, something Hop finds fascinating.

I listen with interest to his research and then drink in the information Sonia gives about Dynamax dens.

"Well, I don't think I have had an enraptured audience since Hop!" Sonia notices the joy on my face. "You seem very fascinated by our research!"

I nod. "Yes, well, I always wanted to be a Pokemon photographer or researcher, but unfortunately, I took the job I knew how to do. Money for rent and all that." I delve into my life story, filling in the details of my life until I stepped off the train hours ago.

"I'm sorry to hear that! If I am honest, Leon has been looking for you all day. Rose told him you disappeared. Don't blame you at all." Sonia shares a look with Hop before turning her attention to me. " You know, I can use one more research assistant if you're interested."

I nearly scream in delight. "You're completely serious right now?"

Sonia giggles at my reaction. "Perfectly so."

I lean back and take a second to soak in the offer. This couldn't have come at a better moment. Not five hours ago, I lost my job due to ignoring Oleana's calls. This could be the life change I need- a life filled with meaning rather than stopping rude reporters.

"Okay, Sonia. I accept." I hold my hand out to her.

Sonia grins. "Oi, look at that, Hop! We have a new family member!" Sonia's phone beeps to notify her. "Excuse me one moment."

Sonia walks into a small room next to the kitchen. I turn to Hop, asking questions about the lab and the conversation somehow flows into personal topics. My break-up with Piers, his current relationship status with Gloria, etc.

Sonia comes back after a brief while. "Hey Sophie, that was Nessa. I told her you were here- I hope you don't mind! She is on her way down to see you."

I love Nessa and consider her one of my closest friends. However, at this moment, I knew who I wanted to see. "Can you ask her if Milo can come?" I inquire.

Sonia giggles. "He is already on his way with her."

Sonia prepares the loft above the lab. She insists I stay until things have calmed a bit, and then I could figure out my living situation. I am glad I brought clothes and toiletries with me because I imagine I will not be back home. I move to the shower, releasing Gigi and Cheri so they can explore their new home.

When I get out of the shower, I hear voices below in the lab, followed by large footsteps on the stairway. The door flies open, and the person I most want to see is standing in the doorway.

I run into Milo's arms and break down into tears. I am not a person who cries often. If I do cry, I go into a quiet corner away from any person. I don't like crying in front of others, but somehow my barrier breaks around Milo. We sit down on the bed – his large hands stroking my hair while I cry, not asking any questions.

I pull my head away from him. "Thank you for coming."

Milo cups my cheeks. "Anytime, Soph. All you have to do is ask me. Can I ask what happened now? Nessa and Leon only told me bits and pieces."

I begin to tell Milo about my morning and how I ended up in Wedgehurst.

"I know I acted like a coward when Oleana knocked, but I just wanted to run at that moment." I sigh.

"You did nothing wrong." Milo leans down to look at my eyes, his emerald ones showing sympathy and understanding. I feel a familiar spark as our eyes met, but I choose to ignore it, burying my face into his chest once more.

"I know I already asked a lot of you, but can I ask one more thing? Will you stay the night with me?" I don't want to be alone tonight.

Milo's arms wrap around my waist as his lips touch my head. Of course. I will do anything for you."

I start to nod off, my eyelids growing heavier each passing moment. I feel my body being laid down, blankets being wrapped around my frame. A small kiss lands on my cheek. As I drift to sleep, I swear I hear someone sigh. "I love you."

I never find the owner of the voice, falling asleep to the comfort of Milo nearby.

Chapter 9

Milo's POV

Milo opens his eyes to the most beautiful sight: Sophie. The woman is asleep next to him, her hair strewn about her pillow like a golden halo. He wishes he can reach and stroke her cheek, touch her waist, but he resists, wanting the moment to be perfect for her. Sophie's eyes flutter open, a groan escaping her lips.

"Good morning?" She greets through half-hooded eyes.

"Mornin." Milo leans in to kiss her cheek. At least that was his intention, but Sophie turns her head at the right moment, and their lips meet. She sighs happily against his lips, and Milo feels his self-control slipping. He flicks his tongue along her bottom lip, asking a question. Sophie answers, opening her lips to allow him entrance. Their tongues meet in the heat of the moment, searching, exploring each other. Sophie slips her arms around his neck, her fingers burying in his salmon locks. Milo groans at the contact, wrapping his arms around Sophie's waist. She pulls away before the moment gets too heated, ending the brief makeout section with a peck.

"Good morning!" Sophie giggles. "I'm sorry, I couldn't resist stealing a kiss."

Milo feels his heart jump at her laughter. It is the most beautiful sound he has heard. Arceus, what would life be like if he could wake up to that sound every morning?

"You can steal a kiss anytime." Milo pulls her tighter against him, hoping the moment was not a dream. Sophie's breathing grows slower after a couple of minutes, and the sounds of sleep are soon parting her lips. Just as Milo is about to drift off, his Rotom phone hovers above his head with an important message. Sighing, Milo kisses Sophie's head before moving her out of his arms. He is needed at the gym today. He looks down at Sophie with guilt, not wanting her to wake and find him gone.

A lightbulb goes off. Tiptoeing to the door, Milo descends the lab's stairs, hoping Sonia or Nessa was nearby.

Sophie's POV

My eyes open to the sound of a loud crash. Yawning, I reach next to me and find the spot empty. I sit up with alarm looking around for the gentle farmer. No signs of him, except for a bouquet of wildflowers on the nightstand. Next to the flowers is a handwritten note:

Sophie,

I had to leave for an emergency at the gym. I'm sorry I didn't wait to tell ya, but I didn't want to wake ya. I will call ya tonight-

-Milo

Memories from earlier in the morning play, the sweet kiss that turned steamy. I admit I didn't want it to stop. I ended the kiss because I promised myself that I would not jump into bed with any boyfriend too soon after my last relationship. Call it guarding my heart, and I am worried about connecting deeply with any human any time soon.

A giggle bubbles in my throat as I take a whiff of flowers. With a sense of energy, I bounce up to get ready. I take steps down to the lab two at a time, humming a favorite tune.

"Well, good morning, sunshine! You are in a good mood today!" Nessa greets from the small kitchen.

I join her at the table, noticing Sonia plating curry. "Just in time, Sophie! Breakfast!" Sonia announces cheerily, a bowl placed in front of me.

"Nessa, I didn't know you spent the night." I greet her.

"Well, I thought it was a long overdue-a night with my girlfriend. I was also worried about you, of course! Although, it looks like you were occupied." Nessa winks.

"He just spent the night!" I protest.

Nessa laughs. "Alright, don't get defensive! How are you feeling? Yesterday was quite horrible for you."

I spend the rest of breakfast catching Nessa and Sonia up on the gossip and events around Chairman Rose. Sonia heard it last night, but she didn't seem to mind listening to once more for Nessa's sake.

Nessa shakes her head. "He has lost it. Does he think getting different legendary pokemon would help in his goal? The man is hungry for power! That's why Leon asked Gloria to contact the Alola champion and warn her."

"I see." I feel a wave of relief wash over me. I dread facing Selene at the moment. I thought the moment would come sooner than I expected, with Rose's grand plans to lure the Alolan champion to Galar. I thought about warning Selene, but it was not what I hoped a family reunion to be. I shake off the thoughts at Nessa's voice.

"So…you and Milo…dating?" Nessa's is practically beaming.

An involuntary giggle releases from my lips. "Umm, I guess? We haven't talked about our status yet?"

Nessa and Sonia laugh along with me. "Well, he is absolutely happy."

"Isn't he always?" Another giggle. I have turned into one of these giggly girls I make fun of!

"True, but he is happier than normal. I am so excited! I have been trying to push you two together for ages!" Nessa's voice raises in excitement. Sonia and Nessa transition to a chat about Milo and me. I listen with a dreamy glaze, my thoughts drifting to the large, friendly gym leader.

The day passes rather quickly. After breakfast, Sonia leads me to the lab's library, instructing me to read on the history of Galar and the phenomenon behind dynamixing. I spend the rest of the day reading and taking notes, only pausing for a quick dinner. Milo texts me later in the evening, inquiring about my sanity and wondering if I needed him to stop by. Choosing to spend the night by myself, I send him a goodnight text before sleeping.

The next morning, I browse the messages I missed in the last few days. Raihan, Leon, and Lucy flooded my inbox with concern, asking to chat at my earliest convenience. I opt to update my best friend first. Lucy picks up on the first ring, squealing with joy at the picture of my visage on her screen.

"Good morning!" Lucy is practically singing. "You had me practically worried out of my mind! So, you just leave a note without little regard to my feelings? I should scold you, but I am so happy to see you. Now tell me what happened!"

"Morning to you too," I reply. "Well, I will start the day I left your place…"

Within ten minutes, Lucy was caught up on events. After her short rant about Rose with colorful language to describe her dislike of him, I move to telling her about my new job and Milo spending the night. Lucy is practically jumping for joy, insisting I invite her to my imaginary wedding to the grass leader.

Before I could retort back, Lucy snaps her fingers. "Oh, yea! I need to tell you. James come here for a moment?"

"Sophie." James slides into view.

" Hello, James?" I respond with a question mark.

"Shall we tell her?" Lucy is bouncing up and down in her seat. James's eyes drift to his fiancée's face, his eyes softening at her excitement. My heart soars at the vision of my dearest friend having someone truly love her.

"We have a wedding date! Mark your calendar. It is two months from now!" Lucy wraps her arms around James.

"Wow! Lucy, this is incredible! I will be there on that day, next to you on the altar."

Lucy nods. "Speaking of! I took the liberty of choosing your maid of honor dress and choosing your side. Give me the address in Wedgehurst, and I will send it."

I spend an hour talking to Lucy about everything-from fond childhood memories to ex-boyfriends and girlfriends. I need this conversation with her since it put things into perspective and is a stress reliever. I promise to visit her soon and hang up with a smile on my face. Now I need to find my own place!

"Sophie, where do you want this box?" Raihan towers over me with a heavy box.

"Put it in that corner. Thanks, Rai." I moved to the back of the house.

It is a week after I got off the train in Wedgehurst. Thanks to Sonia and Professor Magnolia, I found a small house for rent on the town's outskirts. My friends offer to help me move to my new place, but I hardly expect them to bring my stuff from Hammerlocke! Raihan, Nessa, Milo, James, and Lucy moved about my new house, placing items in the main room. I am on the floor, shuffling and unpacking boxes frequently taking water breaks. Hey, rummaging through boxes is thirsty work!

"How are ya doing?" Milo sits next to me.

"Fantastic! I have my own place." I smile.

"I'm happy for ya." One of his arms wraps around my shoulders, and he places a kiss on my cheek.

"Everything is moving quickly! I guess I have a big strong man to thank for that, eh?" I lean back into his shoulder, turning my neck slightly to kiss his cheek.

"Hmm, it looks like my plan to impress a beautiful woman is working." Milo winks, and I can't help but giggle at how cute he looks.

"Really? I see. What is your next step?" I lean my mouth closer to his, hinting at his next step.

"Oi Milo!" Raihan calls. "Could you stop flirting and help with this large couch?" Milo jumps up and joins James and Raihan outside.

Nessa is laughing nearby. "You both are adorable together!"

I roll my eyes at the model. She throws a pillow at my head, missing it by a meter.

At the end of the day, all of my stuff has been placed in my new home. I look around in satisfaction, admiring the beauty of the place. My friends leave shortly after, insisting they have plans. Milo stays behind with me.

"Thank you for helping. Kind of short notice and all." I sit.

Milo pulls me into his arms." Don't worry about it. I want to be here with you."

I laugh. "I see you're getting less shy around me."

"I'll stop if you don't like it."

I lean my head on his chest. "Please don't stop."

Milo's fingers caress my chin before pulling it to his face. I look into a boyish face, reveling in deep emerald eyes filled with love. His lips are on mine. The kiss starts gentle, but it quickly turns passionate, our tongues meeting in the middle. We take our time and enjoy the connection from our embrace. I return to my head to his chest, and a happy hum leaves Milo.

"Hey, Soph?" I hear above me.

"Hmm?"

" I was wondering- and if ya don't agree or want to, tell me. I was wondering if we are exclusive?" Milo almost whispers the last word.

I look into his eyes. "I didn't know it was a question. Yes, of course, we are exclusive." I sigh.

Milo chuckles, and he leans down to kiss my forehead. "Just making sure."

I wrap my arms around his waist. "Milo?"

"Yes?"

"Do you mind staying the night?"

Milo's POV

The adrenaline in Milo's body is still pumping when Sophie asks him to stay. Milo is sure he will drop dead from happiness. The girl he wanted to be with for so long finally agreed to be his!

Milo accepts Sophie's invitation without hesitation. Sophie hugs him in glee and wanders off to shower and prepare for bed. Milo realizes he did not bring anything to spend the night in. Maybe if he sleeps in his boxers? He doesn't want to make his new girlfriend uncomfortable or pressure her into anything she isn't ready for. Surely, she wouldn't mind since she invited him with no notice?

Milo makes his decision and moves into a small washroom to get ready for bed. Soon, he is stripped and crawling into Sophie's comfortable bed. The blond returns shortly in a lacy tank and shorts. She moves in next to him, burrowing into his torso. Feeling skin underneath her fingers, she furrows her brows. "Are you shirtless?"

"I didn't bring anything to wear," Milo responds.

Sophie turns on her side, pressing her back against his chest. "I like it. It is a lovely view."

Milo chuckles at her response and wraps around her, pulling her taunt against him. They drift off to sleep immediately, safe and secure in each other's arms.

Chapter 10

Chairman Rose and Oleana

"Oleana, can you come in for a moment?" Rose taps on the intercom. Hearing Oleana's short acceptance, he leans back and wraps his hands around each other. Leaning on the glass desk, he quickly gathers his thoughts before the tall, elegant woman joins him.

"Good evening Oleana. Have you made any progress on the information I inquired on?"

Oleana sits in the chair across from him, elegantly crossing her legs.

"Yes, Chairman. Quite a trove of information, I might add. Let me begin by showing you this photo." Oleana slides an envelope size printout to Rose. "Our girl has taken with the Turrfield gym leader. Milo has been frequenting Wedgehurst to visit her. He has even taken days off from the gym and left it to his senior trainer to manage."

Rose carefully picks up the photograph, studying the image with interest. "Do you think they are dating?" He doesn't realize he asked the question out loud until Oleana answers, "Yes, sir, it does appear that way."

Rose smiles at his right hand. Oleana was the only person who doesn't get appalled at his stupid questions.

"I see. Perhaps we have given our Turrfield gym leader too much flexibility in his schedule Oleana. Set aside some extra exhibition matches for Milo as well as a mandatory training regime. I need him away from Sophie; he is proving to be much of a distraction for her. Besides, I consider him the weakest of the gym leaders, and we can't have any more leaders in the minor leagues."

"Understood, Chairman. I will see to it as once. However, we will run into a slight difficulty with Leon. He is the Pokemon League Chairman and will disagree with the time-consuming schedule," Oleana types on her notepad as she expresses her concern.

"Let me worry about Leon. The boy has much to do already with his Battle Tower, the Pokemon League, and his personal relationship with Raihan. I doubt he will be much of an obstacle. Is there any other relevant information?" Rose leans forward, his entire concentration on the blond woman.

Oleana nods. "It seems Professor Sonia has taken Sophie in-provided her a job and helped her obtain a place. She has let her guard down significantly."

Rose smiles. "Perfect. Let her be happy-for-now. When we approach her, I don't want her to be warned. It would destroy my ultimate plan if she knew."

Oleana types something in her notes. "Very well, Chairman. Also, you need to be informed of the Alola champion. It seems our very own champion contacted her about you."

"Don't worry about Gloria, Oleana. I have a plan to get Selene to Galar." A sinister smile grows on the Chairman's face. He is hungry for power, having had a little taste of it from Eternatus. What started as a concern for his home region turned into a need to control everything around him. He had been so close to unleashing The Darkest Day, but that brat from Postwick had taken his dreams of being heralded the savior of Galar.

With the addition of Solgaleo and Necrozma to his team, he would finally be able to start his dream of obtaining unlimited power, both for Galar and himself. Also, he would destroy Gloria and Sophie's livelihood.

Maybe Rose had been poisoned by Necrozma's power, but what little care he had run out the door as Oleana closed it behind her.

Sophie's POV

I reach for the ceiling and kick my legs out. I stretch my limbs, stopping when I feel the sweet relief flood my muscles. Several weeks passed since I moved to Wedgehurst and started my new job. Professor Sonia assigned required books to study, and the task is proving quite tedious. I love reading about the different regions and their own form of special evolution. In Galar, pokemon can Dynamax from a fragment of a wishing star and a bond with their trainer, but elsewhere this is referred to as "Mega Evolution."

I am enthralled with the concept of Mega Evolution that I borrowed all of Sonia's books on the subject. When I wasn't reading, I was animatedly chatting with Hop, Sonia, or any lab aides about the topic. You can say I was a bit obsessed.

"Still excited about Mega Evolution, eh Sophie?" Sonia says at the lunch table one afternoon.

"Yes. I find it quite fascinating that regions can use a power similar to dynamixing, but it is somehow different!" I am nearly squealing in delight.

Hop chuckles at my reaction. "I feel the same every day."

"Sophie, if you are interested in studying Mega Evolution, I can reach out to Professor Sycamore. Perhaps he will let you study under him in Lumiose City. "Sonia pats my hand.

My eyes widen. "Study under Professor Sycamore? In Kalos? Yes!"

The duo laughs as I begin thinking out loud of my imaginary trip to Lumiose City. Maybe I should practice my Kalosian?

"Thanks, Sonia," I say goodnight to my coworkers and step out into the twilight. Before I can walk down the short road, my Rotom phone announces a message: Sophie! Engagement party for Lucy and James tonight at the castle! Be there!

-Rai

I clap myself on the head and run towards my place. I had forgotten about Lucy's engagement party in all the mess! I run through the door, only stopping to feed Beri and Gigi.

"Which skirt should I wear?" I hold a black flowy skirt and a floral one. Gigi stares silently for a second before pointing to the floral. "This one? It looks like we have a winner, then." I throw on a black button-down shirt with the skirt and tie my hair halfway back. I suppose I am ready. I forgot if Milo is invited. Uhh! Would I be a bad girlfriend if I didn't ask? I take my phone out before I finish that thought and text him to be my plus one at the party.

I had only seen Milo once or twice the last several weeks. Rose had unofficially taken over the Pokemon League duties once more-to Leon's chagrin. Rose demanded that Milo must train and battle harder. He wanted strong gym leaders, not ones that go easy on the challengers as Milo is known to do due. I miss him, but I don't want to get him in trouble with that narcissistic man more than I have to. At least we chat every night before going to sleep. Arceus, I miss him!

Milo sends a message back letting me know he will arrive with Nessa.

"Gigi, look after Berri, alright? I'll probably be back late." I close the door behind me before my Gengar responds.

The Corviknight Taxi drops me off in front of the castle drawbridge. I begin walking towards a side door when a cold hand wraps around my arm. Panic rises in my throat, and I whirl around to face the offender. Pier's face greets my angry glare.

"Hey, Piers," I say in relief.

"Hey, love, I didn't mean to scare ya." A warm smile greets my dissolving glare. "I just saw ya walkin' and grabbed ya without thinkin'. Sorry 'bout that."

A dry laugh escapes my throat. "Old habits, eh?" I glance down at his hand on my arm. "You can let go now."

Piers pulls his hand away. "I guess so. Haven't gotten used to the bein' friends with ya."

My eyes turn sympathetic at his declaration. "I'm sorry as well. Should I go? I don't want to ruin your night!"

Piers frantically shakes his head. "No! Lucy is yer deares' mate. She invite' me to be friendly and all. I can go."

I stop the long-haired man. "Don't go. We can do this!"

Piers smiles at my confidence. "That we can, lov—, Sophie."

As we begin walking inside, a short woman stampedes into our view. "Piers! Would you mind doing a quick interview?" The loud, assertive voice of Galar's most famous reporter, Gillian, greets us.

"I see you are on a date! I recognize you! Aren't you Sophie Claire, the PR advisor for the Pokemon League?" Gillian shoves a microphone in my face. "There are reports that you are dating Milo. Are you with Piers as well?"

I push the offending microphone away, glaring at her.

"Is she the mystery woman you have seen Piers? How long have you been dating?" Gillian ignores me.

Piers pushes the camera. "Mind yer business. Trouble always follows ya around, eh Gillian?"

I calmly address her. "Gillian, I would appreciate it if you wouldn't discuss us like morning gossip. This does not concern you."

"Sophie, wait," Gillian follows. "Can you comment on rumors of an official Pokemon League? Is it true that it is splitting from Macro Cosmos?"

"Gillian, I am currently not working. If you have any questions, direct them to a Pokemon League representative. Thank you." I start trotting from the nosy woman with Piers following behind.

"That was brilliant, Piers! Thank you." I stop to plant a grateful peck on his cheek.

"Anytime, ya have been through enough that ya don't need to deal with her." Piers takes out some keys. "Let's party at Raihan's."

"I have always wanted to explore the castle!"

I admire the beautiful medieval halls. Torches were the only form of light guiding us through the endless hall. I expect to see a daring knight pop out of the darkness, ready to slay a dragon. Piers wraps his hand around my elbow when we approach a dark corridor. "Don't worry, just helpin' guide ya."

We make two right turns before we are standing in front of a door. Piers turns it to reveal a contemporary-looking loft. Inside, a party was in full swing. Around the room, Raihan, Lucy, Leon, Nessa, Milo, and James were milling about. I jerk out of Piers's hand when Milo's eyes fall on me. I don't want to give him any unnecessary concerns about my ex-boyfriend.

"Sophie! I was worried you forgot!" Lucy runs up to embrace me. I chuckle, guilty that I almost had forgotten until the message from Raihan.

"Congrats, Luc, I am so happy for you," I mutter into her hair. Lucy grabs my hand and twirls me to face the small crowd. "Ladies, Gents, People, and Pokemon-My maid of honor has arrived! Now the party can commence!"

Raihan claps, and music fills the room. "Oi, you lot! There is a small dance floor in this room if you want to groove."

I roll my eyes at Raihan. Well, it's nice to see my friend hasn't changed.

"Wow, nice party Raihan!" I state awkwardly. Raihan envelops me in a hug. "We just had to wait on Piers to get back."

I eye the singer talking with Leon. "Eh, not sure he would care."

"Lucy wanted to invite him! She has grown quite fond of the man." Raihan beams down at me. I step back from him, trying to get away from the odd conversation. It's alright, I'll catch up with her later." I grab a light stick from a nearby table and move to the "dance room."

"Let me have some Sophie time!" Nessa wraps her arm around my waist, pulling me into the middle of the dance floor. I happily play along, taking Nessa's hand and twirling her around several times before we jump into the beat.

"So, I heard Milo used to visit you in Wedgehurst for lunch every day," Nessa winks. "I bet you miss him, eh?

"Nessa, you have been pushing us together since we met!" I laugh.

"Exactly! I have a constitutional right to know!" The model joins in the laughter. "I know he hasn't been around much the last couple of weeks. Rose has him on extra-training regiments and several exhibition matches!"

"It's alright, Nessa. I understand. Rose is an arse, and you lot must put up with it." I wave off the sudden increase of Milo's gym duties.

"You're better than me. He tried that nonsense with me, but I told him off. I am a strong trainer, and he can shove it!" Nessa screams into the room, putting her hands in the air.

I give Nessa a sideways hug and begin to lose myself in the dance. Raihan joins our duo at some point, followed by Lucy, Leon, James, and Piers. I was too busy dancing to notice Milo was watching a small, content smile on his face in the corner.

I feel hands on my back moving with my hips. I crane my neck and see Piers' head on my shoulder. I smell an overpowering odor coming from his lips. It seems the man had indulged in some drinks. I reach my hand and playfully stroke his head before dancing to the music. Piers meant no harm in dancing up against me. After a couple of minutes, I feel my arm being yanked away from Piers's hold, my face meeting a pair of jealous green eyes. Arceus! Milo! I hadn't been thinking and must have made him jealous. Guilt creeps in as he stares into my eyes, his stare softening each minute we stand. Milo leans his lips into my ear. "What are you doing to me, Sophie?" I hear an unfamiliar growl in his voice, and I feel the warmth spread down to my thighs.

"I'm sorry, Milo. I really wasn't thinking!" I apologize.

Milo looks at his grip on my arm and softens it. "Arceus no, blossom. I'm sorry."

Blossom. My heart jumps at the nickname. I pull his head into a rough kiss, showing him the depth of my apology. "It was right stupid of me to dance with anyone like that. I will only dance with you like that from now on. I promise."

Milo kisses my forehead and wraps his arms around mine, gently swaying to the music.

"Do you want to go somewhere private?" I ask him. I look around, making sure no one would miss us. Everyone was either busy dancing or chatting. I latch on to Milo's hand and pull him down the hall to an empty bedroom. A beautiful room spreads before me with a large canopy bed, a bathroom, and a futon. Arceus Raihan goes all out with his decorations! No sooner had I closed the door than I am in Milo's arms, my hair being petted. "I'm am sorry, Sophie. I don't know what came over me out there. I just saw you with Piers and Arceus. He was touching you too much!" Milo sighs. "That is no excuse for how I acted. Forgive me?" The sweet smile that I had grown to love graces Milo's visage.

I laugh and cup his cheek with my hand. "Please don't apologize, Milo. I should have told you. Piers and I are over. There is nothing between us-romantically, at least."

Milo leans in and pecks my lips. "I'm glad you told me. I'm sorry I haven't been able to see you on lunches. Rose asked me to train and do a couple of extra matches."

I rub my thumb on his cheek. "Don't apologize! I understand you will be busy with your gym leader duties. Don't worry about me. Besides, I have talked with you every night since we started dating."

Milo leans into my touch. "You are such an incredible, sweet, and understanding woman. How did I get so lucky?"

"I'm the lucky one. You are the most gentle, loving, and giving man."

Milo plants his lips on mine. I place my hands on his chest as his arms wrap around my waist. Our lips move together in sync until I tilt my chin up for a deeper kiss. His lips leave mine and ghost my cheek and jawbone. He plants a kiss on the pulse point of my neck, eliciting a mewl from my throat.

Feeling bold, I wrap my arms around his neck and open my lips. Milo lifts my body, my legs automatically wrapping around his waist. Our kiss is different this time-full of passion and need. My back is up against a wall as his hands roam over the sides of my body, outlining the curve of my hips. His tongue licks my bottom lip, and I part my lips, allowing him entrance. Our tongues swirled together, rediscovering each other's mouths. As the kiss grows more passionate and hands start to explore further, I feel a bubble of panic rising to the surface. I jerk away from Milo. "I'm not ready!" Embarrassed, I hide my face in his shoulders.

Milo calmly rubs my back. "It's alright. I'm sorry if I pressured you in any way. I will wait until you're ready." I am gently placed on the floor, and a kiss dots my forehead. "Even if we spend our entire lives just kissing, I will be happy."

"You're too sweet." I blush. How can one man be so perfect?

I kiss the top of his head and wrap my arms around his shoulders, pulling him into an embrace.

"Oi, what is this? I take my eyes off you two for one second, and you're snogging in a guest room!" Nessa bounces in. I stick my tongue out at her.

"Why, Sophie, you little Vulpix. Needed to find a private place for some sinning?" Raihan sticks his tall frame around the corner, a disheveled Leon following.

"Speak for yourself, Rai. Or does Leon usually sport such a messy attire?"

Leon turns purple, and Raihan chuckles and rubs the back of his neck. I feel sympathy for the former champion as he tries to find words to say.

"Where's Luce?" I ask the group.

"Well, it seems this turned into a snogging party. Had a known I would have brought Sonia." Nessa huffs as we all laugh.

Intermission

Milo

Excusing himself from the group, Milo makes his way to the main area for a breather. Guilt consumed him as he remembered the jealousy that took over. Milo felt disgusted at the way he acted with Sophie. She didn't deserve that type of treatment and Milo is determined to be better, to rise from the moment of weakness. He steps into the main room. Off in a corner, Lucy and James were chatting quietly. Milo peers around the room, looking for Piers. Lucy sneaks upon him while he is distracted. "Oi, you!" Lucy's chilly voice rattles his bones.

Milo turns to the woman. He knew what she was going to say, and he deserved the lashing. "I know things are tough between you and Sophie with not seeing each other and all. I get it. James and I went through a bit of a jealous streak at the beginning of our relationship. But if you ever cross the line with her, you will be dealing with me. Understood?"

Milo acknowledges the woman with a nod letting her finish her rant.

Lucy continues. "You're a good guy. Nessa and Rai always say kind things. So clear this up for me; what happened earlier?"

Milo coughs before answering. "I really don't have an excuse. I let my emotions get the best of me. Believe me when I say I deeply regret how I treated her."

Lucy nods. "I believe you. Just letting you know-Sophie is over, Piers. She only has eyes for you. I promise." Lucy pats Milo's large shoulder with reassurance.

"Thanks, Lucy. You're an amazing friend to her." Milo smiles.

"Yes, I am."

"I need a favor. I need to take a step back and re-evaluate my actions this evening. I don't ever want to feel or act that way again. "

Lucy raises her eyebrows. "Are you asking me to break up with her for you?!"

Milo raises his hands defensively. "Arceus, no! I would never dream of breaking up with her! I just need a week to deal with my insecurities."

"Okay…?"Lucy looks perplexed.

"Would you look out for our girl while I'm gone? I don't trust that Rose will not try to manipulate her to help."

"With pleasure." Lucy pulls the large man into an embrace.

The Outskirts of Hau'oli City- Early Evening

Selene

"Go, Charly! bubble beam!" Selene calls out the attack to her Popplio. The pokemon responds, blowing a string of bubbles towards the Torrakat. The move was an instant K.O, and the fainted pokemon disappears in a pool of light.

"Amazing battle Selene! You are proving impossible to beat!" Selene's best friend Hau yells across the battlefield.

"Come on now, Hau! You won our last battle!" Selene reminds him.

Hau grins and rubs the back of his neck. "True."

Selene returns Popplio to its Pokeball and walks towards Hau. "I'm hungry. Wanna go eat a malasada?"

Hau's smile widens at the mention of his favorite food. "You don't have to ask twice!"

"Let me invite Gladion. He is staying in Hau'oli City for a couple of days before coming back to Aether."

"Has he said anything about Lillie?" Hau's cheeks blush at the mention of the cute blonde girl.

"She will be back next week, Hau! Have patience!" Selene teases him, reciting a message to her Rotom Dex to send to Gladion. "Let's start walking then!"

Selene and Hau begin the short journey to the city. As they pass the Pokemon School, Hau remembers something.

"Hey Selene, what was the deal with that message from Gloria? You said it was urgent."

Selene shrugs her shoulders. "Something about avoiding Galar for now because their chairman is power-hungry. Apparently, he wants to use Nebby and Zoma."

"You don't sound worried." Hau glances at his friend's reaction.

"Why would I be? The two hardly listen to me! What would some Chairman be able to do with them?"

Hau shakes his head. "You're too stubborn for your own good, Selene. What if Gloria's threat is serious?"

Selene stops and turns to her friend. "Then I suppose I will handle it."

"You know I will help you if you ask?"

"I'm aware, Hau!"

They walk in silence after the conversation. Selene will admit she is stubborn and hardly listens to anyone. She likes Gloria and doesn't think the Galar champion would lie about anything, but Selene chooses to deal with things in her own way. She has been this way since she moved to Alola as a child. She had wandered off to the beach her first day on Melemele Island and had broken her foot. Forced on bedrest, her mom called her sister to help. Selene and her mom were tight on money and couldn't afford to pay Machamp movers. Her aunt and her uncle were quickly on the way to Alola, leaving Selene's cousin Sophie in Galar. Their plane never arrived at Hao 'oli airport. Officials told her mom that the plane disappeared somewhere over the water and it could not be found. Her mom was devasted, barely able to finish the unpacking. Selene refused to come out of her room. She blamed herself. If she hadn't broken her foot, her beloved aunt and uncle would still be alive.

If it were for Hau's family, Professor Kukui and Lillie, Selene and her mother would never have managed to finish their move. A year later, the Professor suggested Selene and Hau take on the island trials. Selene could think of nothing better to distract her from the tragedy, and she would be able to take out her frustrations in pokemon battles. Before she could blink, she was crowned Alola's first pokemon champion, and she had a pokemon team that adored her. Five years had passed since her inauguration. Selene's grief had turned into a devil-may-care attitude. The young woman secretly enjoyed running into danger.

"SELENE!" Hau yells in her ear.

"What?" Selene jumps out of her reverie

"We are at the shop?" Hau gestures towards the bright building

The two walk-in and spot Gladion near the cashier. He scrolled through his Rotom Dex with a frown on his face. Selene felt her heart drop. Something wasn't right.

"Hey Gladion, you okay?" She calls out to the hoodie-glad guy.

"Selene, didn't you say you have a cousin from Galar? Is this her?" Gladion shoves the Rotom Dex in her face. Staring at Selene was an image of a man and woman. A woman that closely resembled her. The headlines above screamed: Turrfield Gym Leader is Off the Market!

"That's Sophie!" Selene says to no one in particular.

Hau scoots in to look at the photo. "Wow, Selene, she looks a lot like you."

Gladion merely nods.

Selene fills a host of emotions rise in her throat. Her mom had been trying to reach out to Sophie for years with no luck. Selene missed her cousin and wished how she could apologize to her for her parents. In a second, the Champion makes her decision. "I'm going to Galar."

Hau's eyes shoot out of his socket. "What? When?"

Selene stamps her feet in determination. "Now."

She makes her way to the door, intent on running home to pack but is stopped by Gladion. "You can't go alone, Selene! Remember that warning from Gloria?"

"Screw it! I can handle some corporate monkey!" Selene yanks her arm out of Gladion's grasp.
Gladion sighs and puts his head in his hand. "I'm going with them."

"As am I" Hau nodded in affirmation.

Selene rolls her eyes. "Fine! But we are leaving tonight!"

Chapter 11

Sophie,

I'm leaving early. Sorry about how I acted earlier with Piers. I need to go home and calm down to think. I will call ya tomorrow, Blossom.

-Milo

I read Milo's message and disappointment seeps into my head. I imagine Milo feels guilty or remorse for how he acted earlier with Piers. I have half a mind to give my ex a piece of my mind! But first, I need to calm down and approach him when I am less angry.

I understand feeling jealous. There was a time months ago where I felt that nasty insecurity bubbling up, threatening to go over and claim Milo in front of his flirty fan. I remember I avoided his calls for a couple of days, despite his objections that the girl was just a fan. I was such a fool back then! Milo needs space, and I'm sure he will come around quickly. He is Milo, after all, the happy, relaxed, supportive gym leader.

Still, I really wanted to continue or to kiss the session from earlier.

"Hey, you ready?" Lucy asks and grabs our jackets from a nearby chair.

"What?" I stare at her incredulously.

" To go home? Also, I'm coming with tonight and, if you're okay with it, stay with you for the rest of the week." She almost demands the request leaving me no option but to nod my head.

"Fantastic!" Lucy starts for the exit

"Is James going to be alright?" I worry about the tall, dark-skinned man missing his fiancée.

"He's fine! I already told him I was spending some time with you. Now, let's go because I'm getting sleepy!" Lucy grabs my arm, pulling me out of the castle. I barely have time to say goodbye to my friends before I am out on the street, looking at a Corviknight taxi land in front of us.

"Wait up, you two! I'm coming with!" A disheveled Leon joins us. "I haven't seen mum and Hop in a bit. You mind if I tag along?"

I shake my head. "Of course not, Lee."

We are soon air-born, talking over the events of the night.

"Milo looked happy tonight. I wonder why that is?" Leon winks over at me.

"Hmm, I wonder?" I play naïve refusing to answer Leon's teasing.

Lucy laughs. "Don't deny it, Soph! You are practically glowing. You've never glowed around any of your exes, Including Piers." Lucy beams.

I bashfully grin. "I suppose. Everything is different with Milo. I feel like I know him-flaws and all. It just makes things less awkward, I suppose?"

Lucy nods in understanding. "Well, you were mates before. You know what they say friends make excellent lovers. I am genuinely happy for you, doll. You deserve the best in everything."

Leon nods along with my friend. Tears start to swell in my eyes at my friends' kindness. "Thank you, Lucy and Lee." I move in and wrap Lucy in a hug. "Get in on this, Lee! You deserve a hug as well!"

The three of us wrapped in a group hug, giggling at the awkwardness of Lucy being stuck in the middle. "Alright, get off me! Don't want to suffocate or anything." Lucy taps my back. "Seriously, I have never seen you this happy around Piers."

I roll my eyes. "Speaking of, I am going to give him a piece of my mind. Drunk or not-what in the hell was he thinking pressing up like that? I already made my boundaries clear with him!" I take out my Rotom phone and angrily type a message to Piers. I don't expect him to answer immediately, considering the message was harsh.

"He is obviously not over you. I had half a mind to take him out of the room and have a chat with him." Leon states.

"Well, I'm sure being drunk and all didn't help. I'm glad you're clear with him, though. He needs to move on." Lucy added.

I change the subject. "Umm, so Lucy, why are you spending the night?"

Lucy strokes her chin. "We haven't had a proper sleepover in ages! We are overdue for one. A proper catch-up between two besties."

I scrunch my eyes suspiciously. "Doesn't a sleepover last for a night, usually? Why do you want to stay with me for a week?"

Lucy and Leon share a look before quickly snapping their heads back to me. "I…miss... you?"

"Alright, if this is about Rose, he hasn't reached out for weeks! Why the sudden interest in staying now?"

Leon's sympathetic eyes catch mine. "It's just we're worried about you. You have had Sonia, Hop, or Milo around you the last several weeks. This is the first night you have been alone."

Were my friends keeping track of my schedule? What were their plans? To switch out days to babysit me?

Our cab lands in front of the Wedgehurst station. We step out cautiously, wary of the dim lighting illuminating the dark street. We say our goodnights to Leon and begin the short walk to my home.

"So, Milo…" Lucy starts the conversation.

"What about Milo? He is a perfect gentleman." I smirk.

"Oh, come now, Sophie! I need more details than that." Lucy huffs.

I walk faster, putting space between Lucy and me. I whistle a tune playing naïve as Lucy yells questions behind me. I think I will keep her in the dark about my relationship details for tonight.

We crash after we come home, too tired from the party to stay up longer. When I walk into my living area the following morning, a horrid sight greets my eyes. Lucy's eyes widen as the glaring headline scrolls by on the telly:

TURRFIELD GYM LEADER IS OFF THE MARKET!

Underneath the headline is a picture of Milo and me walking around holding hands. A reporter's voice is in the background, talking about my relationship. My face drains of blood as fear takes hold, sending visions of angry fans, death threats, and Rose or Macro Cosmos at the door. I flashback to the night, Elyse's screams in the background as pain shoots through my body from repeated punching.

"Sophie! Breathe!" I hear Lucy's panicked voice, and I come too, realizing that I am hyperventilating.

I close my eyes and take deep breaths. In and out. In and out, like my therapist suggested. I feel arms squeezing me tightly, urging me down from the personal hell. A buzzing sound comes from the table. "Lucy, you have an incoming call."

"Rotom, can you place the call on private and come closer?"

I hear a voice response at the end.

"How do you think she is handling it?" Lucy's voice raises an octave. "I'm sorry about that. I didn't mean to yell. I'm worried about her and get a bit tense when she is upset."

The voice on the other end responds.

"Let me ask." Lucy squeezes my shoulders. "Soph? Milo wants to know if you need anything?" Milo's voice interrupts. "He is offering to come."

I bury my head in my friend's shoulder. "Tell him I'm alright. He has a gym to worry about! I don't want him to ignore it on account of me."

Lucy talks with Milo for a couple of minutes before hanging up. We walk over to the couch and sit, quiet ringing through the room.

"I need to go to work." I jump to my feet.

"No, doll. You are upset." Lucy protests.

"Lucy, I appreciate your concern, but I need a distraction right now," I argue with her.

"Fine. I will be here when you get back, though." She insists, crossing her arms over her chest and raising her chin in defiance.

I begin to walk toward my bathroom, but I turn around as my thought comes to me. "I would appreciate that. In fact, I need you here for the next several days, as it turns out."

I walk in the doors of the Pokemon Lab. The lab assistants have all gathered around in a circle around a tablet. When they spot me, the room goes silent. Sympathetic eyes greeted me. It was obvious that my coworkers had seen the news story about my relationship.

"Sophie! Good morning!" Sonia slithers up to me with a cup of coffee. "So, I want to update you: I chatted to Professor Sycamore yesterday about my rising research assistant! He is very interested in meeting you. He said he might be coming to Galar in a couple of months if you are interested in a meet."

I smile at the unexpected news. I feel my heart soar at the prospect of meeting one of the professors behind Mega Evolution.

"Absolutely! Thank you, Sonia."

"You more than earned it." The red-head smiles

Hop is next to greet me. "Hey, Sophie! You doing alright?"

Sonia glares at him. Hop closes his mouth when he catches his boss's glare.

I can hardly blame Hop for showing concern. The guy was quickly becoming one of my favorite people in the lab-next to Sonia, of course." I'm doing alright. People were bound to find out sooner or later, eh?" I deflect their concerns with a smile.

The two nod in agreement.

"Well, is there anything I can help with today?" I switch into work mode.

Sonia clears her throat. "Actually, I found some interesting studies on Mega Evolution. Would you have a look? I am hoping you will highlight similarities between Mega Evolution and Dynamax." Sonia hands me a thick folder.

I nearly jump for joy at the assignment. "Absolutely! I will have it ready by the end of the day."

The sun was beginning to set as I finished my presentation on Mega Evolution to Sonia. I am riding a high from the animated discussion I had with her, lost in a dream state as I grabbed my bag and paperwork to take home. I walk out into the hall and run into something solid, or should I say, someone. Milo is in front of me with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

"Milo!" I greet. He hardly has time to talk before my lips are over his. I didn't know how much I needed him until that moment.

He chuckles against my lips and pulls back. "Hello to you too!" He hands me the bouquet.

"They're beautiful, thank you!" I blush at the gesture.

Milo watches my facial reactions with amusement. "I thought I would check up on ya. I was worried and all after that news report."

I sniff the bouquet. "Worried about me? You aren't worried for yourself? What will Rose say? How about your fans?"

Milo kisses my forehead. "I don't care what Rose thinks. As for my fans, all they will care about is my happiness."

I look at him, not quite convinced of his excuses.

"Shall I escort you home?" Milo dramatically takes off his large straw hat and bows. I giggle and lace my arm through his.

"Why, thank you, kind sir!"

We walk out to a colorful sky. Reds, pinks, and deep purple paint the horizon as the sun descends into the fields. People walking around us stopped when they saw the grass gym leader and me. My panic starts to accelerate, and I stop in my tracks.

Milo gently pats my hand. "Whenever you're ready, Soph. Take your time."

I take a deep breath, and we begin walking. A couple of young girls nearby squeal when they see us and run up to greet Milo.

"Milo!" They scream in delight. "Is this your girlfriend? She is so beautiful! You two are a cute couple!"

The unexpected comment makes me giggle.

"I agree" Milo's adoring eyes lock on mine.

After talking with the young girls for a bit, we finally start the journey home. I feel lighter with each step, relieved at how well-received I was as Milo's girlfriend so far. I laugh under my breath.

Hearing my laugh, Milo turns around with his signature smile. "What?"

"Nothing, just feeling better after those girls," I say in relief.

Milo's face softens, a serene smile decorating his face. A smile that I had recently learned is only meant for me "I'm happy you feel better. I have to say, though; they were right about you being beautiful."

All the blood in my body rushes to my face. "Thank you for coming by."

Milo grabs my hand, his lips grazing my knuckles. "I had to make sure you're alright. Can I do anything else to make you feel better?"

The blush in my cheeks deepens at my boyfriend's concern. He was putting my needs over his, and I can't help but fall deeper. I pause at the thought. Am I falling in love with him?

I look into his eyes. "Actually, now that you mention it, I need one thing."

I wrap my arms around his neck and bring his face to mine. I kiss him hard, burying my hands in his hair. He groans against my lips, wrapping his arms around my waist, pulling me flush into his torso. I drown into the embrace, not caring who saw us. Moments tick by before we end the kiss.

Milo leans his forehead on mine. "Better?"

"Much. I could use one every day. Doctor's orders and all."

Milo laughs. "if that is what you want, I will be here every night to kiss you."

I start walking toward my front door. "Well, I won't keep you. Text me when you get home, alright?"

"I will."

"Goodnight" I steal a peck from his lips before walking inside.

"Goodnight, Blossom." Milo waves.

Milo

Milo always begins his mornings the same- checking on his Wooloo. After, that he takes the freshly picked flowers from yesterday to his flower shop, setting up the displays before returning home.

Today Milo had a slight spring in his step and found the sunrise a bit more beautiful than yesterday. He replays the memory of his kiss with Sophie, wishing he can feel her lips on his now. He smiles as he remembers how eager his girlfriend was to kiss him. His girlfriend. It was as if Milo was in a dream. He had dated other women in the past, but none could hold a candle to Sophie. She is so intelligent, caring, and beautiful. He never imagined their relationship would be anything beyond friends. Milo had fallen in love with her the minute they met. He wouldn't rush telling her, wanting to wait until the right moment to confess his feelings.

A knock on the door interrupts his happy thoughts.

Strange, Milo wasn't expecting anyone this early. His usual run with Kabu and Nessa wasn't for another couple of days, and the trio was going to meet in Motostoke.?

He opens the door to a surprise: A young woman bearing a similar resemblance to Sophie, along with two guys.

The Sophie look-alike opens her mouth. "Alola. Are you Milo-the Turrfield gym leader? I'm Selene, the Champion from Alola. Are you dating my cousin?"

.

Chapter 12

Milo

"Umm... hello?" Milo stares wordlessly at the three people at the door. "Sorry, your cousin?"

The guy in the black hoodie glares at the raven-haired girl-Selene. "I told you that barging in on people is not the way to find her." Black hoodie turns to Milo. "Sorry about Selene. She is impulsive and often acts before thinking. Alola! I'm Gladion, and this is Hau." The green-haired man waves. "You have met Selene. She is looking for her cousin, Sophie Claire? We saw an article about you and her. Selene hasn't seen her in ten years."

Milo nods in understanding. "I see. Well, she isn't here. May I ask why ya didn't go to Gloria? Ya being the Alola Champion and all."

"See, that was the plan I suggested," Gladion interjects. "But Selene, for some odd reason, wanted to come here."

Milo offers Selene a sympathetic smile. "She isn't, unfortunately. Why don't ya lot come in for some tea? I'll let Gloria know you're here."

The trio enters through the door. After pointing them to the sitting area, Milo goes to the kitchen to prepare the hot drinks.

He sends Gloria a message while the tea is steaming, hoping she would either come by or reply soon. Grabbing a bag of biscuits from the counter, he brings the snacks to his visitors.

Milo sits in the chair across from the trio. The three reaches for the tea, the one called Hau grabs a couple of biscuits before sitting back down. Selene eyes the large farmer with caution.

"So, what? You're dating Sophie?" Selene asks rudely.

"Yes," Milo answers calmly.

"For how long? She doesn't live with you yet?" Selene rapid-fires questions at him.

Gladion shoots a glare at his friend. "Apologies for Selene. She really wants to see Sophie. The excitement must be getting to her."

Selene closes her mouth, realizing how rude she is.

"No worries. I am sure you all have had a long journey." Milo turns to Selene. "We have only been dating for a month, so no, we don't live together yet. I can give out Sophie's info without her consent."

"So, she never spoke about me?" Selene whispers. So softly that Milo barely heard her.

"She mentioned a cousin from Alola who she hadn't spoken with." Milo didn't mention the details Sophie shared about Selene. That was between Sophie and her family.

Tears form and spill down the younger girl's eyes. "She blames me for her parents, doesn't she? She blames my mom and me!"

Milo doesn't miss a beat when the tears start to flow. He moves closer to Selene and puts a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Don't stress over it, doll. We shall get everything sorted."

A knock on the door interrupts the conversation.

"Come in," Milo yells, not wanting to leave Selene in this frantic state.

A young woman with short brown hair bounces into the room. "Oi Milo, ya called?"

"I believe ya know this girl?"

Gloria's dark eyes land on the Alolan group. "Selene! I told ya not to come! What are you doing here!?"

Sophie

It was one of those rare days- a day where I travel to the beach without fear of being followed by Macro Cosmos or-starting two days ago, new fans. Milo's fans are surprisingly welcoming, flooding my inbox with messages of support and admiration. I enjoy the good wishes, but I can't wait until the newness of my relationship with a Galar gym leader has faded from the region's mind.

Nessa had successfully dragged me out today to a nearby beach. We spent the entire morning chatting and lying in the sun. The sun's warmth kisses my exposed skin, and Wingulls sing in the distance. Next to me, Lucy, Nessa, and Sonia are laughing at a story. Nessa and Sonia are clad in matching blue bikinis. Despite their protests, Lucy and I feel like a few third wheels. Nessa stands up and looks in the distance.

"Is anyone thirsty? I see a vendor with some tropical drinks in the distance!"

"Count me in!" I say with excitement.

"Same," Sonia and Lucy chime in.

The model returns after a couple of minutes, her hands full of colorful drinks. I take a sip tasting an unmistakable strong flavor-alcohol. "Nessa, you didn't tell me this was made with alcohol!"

Nessa takes a dainty sip from her drink. "Didn't think I needed to. Thought I would treat you, girls."

I take a larger sip. "Great call!"

I feel the familiar burn in my stomach as the hot liquid slides down. This is life! I can hardly remember the last time I relaxed on some beach, a drink in my hand. The four of us sit up to drink, chatting about different news and gossip about the gym leaders. I hear chimes in the background but brush it off as a stray pokemon. The chimes become louder, and I realize it's my phone.

"Uhh, Sophie? Is that your Rotom phone?" Lucy looks around my shoulder, trying to find the offending object.

"Hold on." I reach for the device. A smile erupts on my face when I see the incoming caller.

"Hey, you! I was just thinking about calling you tonight!"

I hear a forced laugh from Milo. "That's great. Could you come over? You have a guest looking for you."

"Looking for me?"

When Milo announces the person at his house, I nearly drop the phone.

I open the door forcefully, Lucy and Nessa cautiously following behind. In my haste to get to Turrfield, I had slipped into a swimsuit cover-all that barely went past my thighs. I almost run into Milo, his large hands instinctively wrapping around my waist. His eyes take in my attire, and his cheeks flush as he quickly snaps his head upwards. Any other time I would have teased him, but I only have one person on my mind.

In the main area, a group of people is sitting on the couch with Gloria off to the side. My focus narrows in on one individual: Selene.

Selene's eyes widen. "Sophie?"

I hold up a hand. "Don't speak."

The girl shuts her mouth, and the room falls into silence.

I glare at her. "What in Arceus's name are you doing here? Didn't Gloria tell you to stay away?" I turn my glare on the champion, who just shrugs her shoulders.

"She did! Zoma and Nebby are in my P. C storage! I swear. I just…it's just…I saw your picture in an article, and I just had to see you!"

I huff. "Because not contacting you for ten years wasn't a hint?"

Selene jumps to her feet, and her face turns red in anger. "By the Tapus, Sophie! We used to be close, and then what?! Your parents disappear, and I'm at fault? What about mom!?"

The entire room watches us in silence, a wave of awkwardness permeating through the room.

I snap out of my anger and look at the concerned eyes around. "Let's not do this here. Outside." I jerk my head at the door. Selene follows along until in the middle of a field.

Selene looks at her fingers. "Milo seems nice."

I hum in response.

"Is it hard dating a gym leader in Galar? Arceus, the media must follow you everywhere! I know it's hard for me to date with the media at my heels." Selene attempts a small smile.

"Selene, is this what we came out here to talk about; dating?" I question her.

"No," Selene shakes her head. "Sophie, I acted out of impulse. I saw your photo with Milo on the Alolan news and jumped on a plane without thinking. Gladion and Hau followed me here, mostly to make sure I don't do anything crazy."

"Well, it's nice to see some things don't change." I blandly state. Selene has always been the impulsive one. "Now, why did you come all the way to Galar?" I cross my arms.

Selene takes a moment before answering. "Okay, I am going to say what's on my mind, so if you can just listen, that would be great. Sophie, we practically grew up together. You would come to Kanto in the summers, and I would go to Galar in winter. Remember how we would each spend months in each's region? Dad left us, so mom and I moved to Alola to start fresh. You have no idea how deep the hole I fell into when I heard about your parents! You don't think I didn't blame myself? If I hadn't gotten sick, Auntie and Uncle would have never stepped foot on that plane! If it hadn't been for Gladion, Hau, and Lillie, I probably would have remained shut in my room! Mom tried to reach you, and I even wrote you every year! You ignored us! I really wanted you with me when I became the Alola champion! You are the first person I thought of when I say on that throne! I just...I miss you. You are…were like a big sister to me." Selene's blue eyes water.

My instinct is to push her away. If I am honest, a part of me does blame Selene and Auntie for my parent's disappearance. How can I push her away when she is standing in front of me, tears and all? Her mates and she had traveled eight hours just to chat with me!

Maybe it's time to mend fences. I sigh. "Alright, Selene, I hear you."

Selene's eyes shot up to mine. "Really?!"

"I'm not saying we are besties again, but let's start fresh."

Selene jumps in my arms, a sigh of relief coming from her chest. "I want to. I can stay in Galar for as long as you want, considering I'm not technically the champion anymore."

I pull away from her. "Selene, you need to go back. Gloria wasn't joking!"

Selene shakes her head. "I can handle some stuffy corporate asshole."

I resign myself. "Alright, be careful!"

Selene jumps up and down. "I will. We are staying at a hotel under Hau's name. Your Chairman Rose will be none the wiser!"

Selene threads her arm through mine and happily skips back to Milo's house. The group is still there when we arrive, and I can tell the relief that passes on their faces when they us.

"Well, I should make proper introductions. Milo, Nessa, Lucy, and Gloria- This is Selene, my cousin from Alola."

Selene gives the Alolan greeting. "And Hau and Gladion, this is my cousin Sophie."

Everyone breaks into laughter as they realize the tension is gone. Milo catches my eyes and mouths, "Are you okay?" I smile and nod, motioning him closer.

"So how old are you, Selene? I heard you were quite young when you became champion." Nessa interrogates.

"fifteen. I was champion for five years before Molayne came for the title and won." Selene shrugs her shoulders.

"But you still have the champion duties?" Nessa's eyebrows furrow.

"No! Well, I mean, I will always have duties since I was the first champion and Solgaleo and Necrozma chose me. Alola's champion doesn't have many duties, except battling trainers and the occasional party."

Gloria nods. " She has a good life. What I would do to the only battle as Champion!"

We laugh. I feel Milo slide up next to me, and I wrap an arm around his waist. His lips automatically find my head.

"AWWW," Nessa dramatically yells. "Aren't they the cutest?"

Gladion, Hau, and Selene wordlessly nod their heads. I smile at Nessa's teasing. I knew how thrilled she is that we are together, considering she had practically pushed us together when we met.

"When did you start dating?" Selene asks.

Milo's voice booms above mine. " About a month ago. We've been friends for two years."

"Aww." Selene and Nessa's voice sync together.

"Yea, we met at a gym leader party." I smile.

Gladion looks down at something. "Hey Selene, I'm exhausted. Let's get back to the hotel and pick this up some other day."

Selene nods, a yawn suddenly escaping her. "You're right. Here Sophie, let's exchange numbers, and I will call you tomorrow when I wake?"

After quickly exchanging numbers, the Alolan trio is on its way, followed by Nessa, Lucy, and Gloria. Milo and I are left alone.

Chapter 13

Milo and I stand in silence for a couple of minutes, staring at anything but each other. I suddenly am hyper-aware of how exposed I am in just my pull-over and bikini. I can feel Milo's eyes burning into my body.

"So, I guess I don't have to call you tonight." I joke.

Milo chuckles. "Guess not. I prefer it this way."

I hum in contentment and look towards the kitchen. "Would you like me to make some curry while I'm here? We can catch up on the last several days…"

I turn my head back to Milo and am startled to notice how close he is. Arceus, how did he get to the other side of the room so fast?!

His eyes fall on my lips. He makes the first move, crashing his lips on mine. I wrap my arms around his neck while his hands find their place on my back. I pull his neck tighter, deepening the kiss. Milo groans against my lips, dipping my back slightly, as his hands slid up my sides.

I start stepping back, guiding us to the couch. Our mouths never part on the short journey. I lie down as Milo hovers above, tapping my bottom lip with his tongue. I grant him access, a small moan escaping my lips. I bury my fingers in his hair, pulling slightly at his roots. His lips leave mine as he trails light kisses down my throat. He stops at my pulse point for a second, then leans down to suck the curve gently. A mewl involuntary rises out of my throat. Arceus, how can he make me feel so amazing?

A thought bubbles up, crying for us to stop. I wasn't ready yet to give him everything.

I jerk my body away. Milo leans back, searching my eyes.

"You okay?" Concern fills his voice.

I rapidly sit up. My heart is still pounding from our heated kiss, and I feel the liquid pooling between my thighs.

"I'm fine! It's just I don't know if I am ready to be with you yet." I croak out. Worried he will take what I said the wrong way, I add, "No! The kissing is amazing!"

Milo grabs my hand and pulls me into his lap. He lays his head on my shoulder. "Whenever you're ready. We don't have to rush, alright? I'm sorry if I went too far."

I choke back tears at his words. Arceus, Milo is the sweetest! Unlike my relationship with Piers, I didn't want to jump into bed with Milo after the first week. It's probably because of how fast things moved with Piers. I felt like I didn't connect with him in my haste to have amazing sex. I am certain sex with Milo will be mind-blowing, but I want to enjoy being with him- for now.

I tap my head against his. "Thank you for being the sweetest boyfriend in Galar."

Milo smiles. "I want to make you happy. Just ask I will give you anything, Blossom." He takes a deep breath. "I love you."

The world seems to pause at this moment. Our foreheads are still touching, and our eyes are still gazing into the others. I am taken aback by his confession and need to take a moment to analyze what he said. My heart starts to warm at his words, a euphoric feeling settling into my body. Should I say it back? I indeed feel something different for Milo, unique from my exes. Is it love?

A kiss wakens me from my thoughts. "You don't have to say it back, Blossom. Tell me when you're ready."

We share a sweet embrace before moving to the kitchen.

Selene texts me the following morning. She wants to meet up later in the day. We make plans to meet at a small coffee shot in Motostoke. The café is behind an alleyway and is secluded from prying eyes. With my rising celebrity and Selene being the first Alolan champion, any other place would cause a riot.

I arrive at the meet-up spot ten minutes early to mentally prepare for the awkward chat. I hardly know Selene anymore. I knew her when we were kids, spending our time divided between regions. We were close and were often mistaken for sisters because of our resemblance. That was before the night that changed my life.

"Sophie?" The visage of my cousin appears. I smile politely, gesturing to the seat across from mine. "I hope you don't mind. I took the liberty of ordering coffee and pastries."

Right on time, the server places two cups in front of us, followed by a large plate of pastries. Selene's eyes widen at the decadent treats, and she grabs a mini coffee cake from the pile. I sit and wait for her to finish her food before starting the conversation. "So, I'm here. What did you want to meet about?"

Selene takes a swallow of coffee to wash the cake down. "I want to see you, Soph! I have a lot to catch you up on!"

I smile at her enthusiasm. "Alright. Well, I have the day to catch up. So- how old are you now?"

"Twenty."

I feel flabbergasted! I remember Selene as the cute pigtailed girl from Pewter City running around the street. "Wow! Tell me about how you beat the Elite Four."

Selene settles comfortably in her chair, pulling me into her world- a world of a fifteen-year-old trainer. Her friend Hau had dragged her on the island challenges, hoping that pokemon battling would get her out of her room. Along the way, she met Gladion and Lillie, two siblings who ran away from home because their mum became obsessed with opening an ultra-wormhole. Her obsession literally consumed Lusamine, and Lillie took her mum to Kanto for her health.

I wonder if Selene is dating the two guys who came with her-Hau and Gladion, but she insists they are brothers. I sense an interesting story behind Selene's love life, but I refuse to pry further.

Once she finishes her story, I tell her mine- from leaving Lucy's family home to pursue a pr career at Macro Cosmos, to climbing the ladder quickly and becoming Chairman Rose's pr manager, my termination from Macro Cosmos, becoming the Pokemon League PR manager, dating Piers, Tommy, and finally the bullshit around The Chairman.

Selene's eyes are wide at the end of my story. "Holy Tapus, Sophie! I didn't realize how bad it was for you. I shouldn't have come here! You don't work for him, anymore right?" Selene hardly takes a breath between questions.

"I don't. I am an assistant to Professor Sonia."

Selene giggles. "I'm not surprised. You always wanted to be a pokemon researcher! I'm so happy for you! May I add your boyfriend is go-rgeous?" Selene emphasizes the last word.

I laugh, a blush paints my cheeks. "He is! He is so sweet, to add to his many wonderful qualities."

Selene watches my face dreamily. "Ahh, love."

I squint at my younger cousin. "I'm not in love with him yet."

Selene chuckles. "Okay, whatever you say, cuz." She leans forward. "Listen, I will keep a low profile while I'm here. I don't want to cause any trouble for you. But I want to train you. I think you need to refresh your pokemon battle skills!" She holds up a hand to signal she wants to finish her thoughts. "Listen, I am worried about you. I think we need to train your Gengar and catch some powerful pokemon. That way, if anyone tries to mess with you, they will regret it."

I reach over, grabbing her hand. "I would love nothing more."

I plan to meet up with Selene and her friends the day after tomorrow. We will stay out in the Wild Area for a week, training our pokemon. I can barely contain my excitement at the idea of camping. After I get home from lunch with Selene, I go to the local pokemart to buy supplies. I spend longer than planned in the store, and by the time I left with my purchases, the sun had set.

Although the walk was short to home, I felt an unusual chill spread through my bones. I grab a Pokeball from my belt. "GIGI!"

The Gengar bursts out. "GAR!"

"Walk with me, Gigi. It's a bit dark, and I'm worried."

Gigi salutes, floating ahead. Feeling a bit better at her presence, I follow her down the road. I feel a gust behind me, and suddenly an arm wraps around my waist. I feel a cloth pushed against my mouth. A strong smell permeates my nose, and before I can call Gigi for help, blackness dots my vision.

Intermission

Gigi

Gigi loves Sophie. The two had met in West Lake Axwell ten years ago when the blond-haired woman took on the gym challenge. Gigi was just a Ghastly at the time. The young Ghastly spent her days roaming about an abandoned tower with other ghost pokemon. Gigi had a difficult time fitting in with the others. She wasn't fond of playing pranks on passing trainers like her fellow ghosts, and she was bullied by fellow Ghastly for her preference to watch other pokemon.

One day Gigi wandered out to the lake's edge and ran into a teenage girl and her friend. While the friend hid from Gigi in her tent, the teenage girl approached the pokemon unafraid. Gigi sensed that this human was different than others-less afraid. The two connected immediately, and Gigi did not leave Sophie's side the entire night, chasing any Gengars who wanted to prey on the two girls.

In the morning, as the two girls packed up, Gigi brushed against Sophie. "You want to join me, girl?" The teen says with a small smile.

"Gass!" The pokemon responded.

Sophie called the pokemon Gigi, naming her after her mum, Ginger.

Gigi has been protecting her trainer since. When Sophie's parents disappeared, it was Gigi that comforted her that night, staying in the tent till Sophie fell asleep. As Gigi evolved from a Haunter and a Gengar through the years, she developed a prankster personality, finding that her mischievous pranks made Sophie laugh. Yes, Gigi loves Sophie-almost as much as food.

The ghost pokemon wanders down the dark street in Wedgehurst, looking for suspicious pokemon or people in every dark crevice. Not finding anything, Gigi turns to check on Sophie and finds an empty road instead. Confused, the pokemon retraces her steps, making sure Sophie hadn't stopped to chat in one of the houses or stores that lined the road.

"GAR?" Gigi begins to panic. Where could Sophie be? She floats over to the pokemon lab but finds it dark.

"GARRR!" Gigi feels panic rising in her body. Sophie would never leave Gigi. Gigi rushes home, floating through the wall. A lamp is the only light on, Beri sleeping on the couch. Gigi noisily floats to the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, and a small veranda. Sophie was nowhere to be found. Gigi moves back to the living room and bursts into tears. Awakened, Beri looks at the ghost pokemon in confusion.

"GAR! Gar, gar gar gar." Gigi announces to Beri. I lost Sophie. I can't find her. The two pokemon starts crying, worry for their trainer overcoming them.

Milo

Milo rechecks his Rotom phone. Nothing. He messaged Sophie a couple of hours ago, but she hasn't responded. It was odd since she always answers back quickly to him.

He rereads his message. Hey Blossom, how did your lunch with Selene go?

Maybe Sophie decided to spend the evening with Selene and hadn't checked her messages yet. Trying to convince himself, Milo still couldn't shake the feeling something is wrong. Deciding to head to Wedgehurst to see his girlfriend, he grabs his jacket and bag.

"Milo? Where are you going?" Oleana's voice booms behind.

"Uhh, an emergency came up, and I need to check on someone." Milo states.

Oleana shakes her head. "Your emergency can wait. I'm sure whoever it is can call someone else to assist them. You are required here."

Milo looks back at the fashionable woman in front of a photo shoot. Around the white sheet, a set up with hay, Wooloo, and a model dressed in flannel, pullover, and way too much makeup to be working on the farm.

"With all due respect, ma'am, I need to check on her." Milo protests.

Oleana remains firm. "You're talking about Sophie, correct? Yes, we all know about your little relationship. It is fine since she no longer works for the league but understands this will become an issue if she causes you to run out in the middle of a photo shoot."

Milo ignores the woman, grabbing his belt of pokeballs. "Miss Oleana, I understand, but she is more important than this photoshoot."

As Milo heads toward the door, Oleana moves swiftly to block his path. "Don't make me repeat myself, Milo. The next several days will be busy for you. Along with this photoshoot, you will be doing media events with Nessa and Kabu! If you refuse, well, perhaps your girlfriend needs to be reminded of her obligation to the Chairman. In terms of helping him contact her cousin."

Milo swallows a large lump in his throat. He has never been threatened before since he is well-liked among the Galar people. No one could imagine threatening the large gentleman. Perhaps he has been sheltered from people's cruelty, but he gave in to Oleana's demands.

Sighing, he places his bag on the floor. He can't let anything happen to Sophie.

"Good choice. Now go over to Alex."

Milo shakes his head. "I will do the media stuff, Oleana, but I'm not posing with another girl. I'm not Leon or Raihan. "I don't like being in an intimate embrace with anyone besides Sophie, he thinks silently to himself.

"Fine. Alex, you may go." Oleana waves the model away. Milo powers down his Rotom phone.

Selene

A couple of days later, Selene, Hau, and Gladion stand near the Hammerlocke stairs in the Wild Area. Sophie agreed to meet them there. Selene wants to head to the Dusty Bowl to see the unique sandstorms that pop up throughout the day.

Gladion glances at his Rotom device. "Selene, she is over an hour late!"

Hau pipes in. "I'm sure she got caught up! Maybe she had to drop by the lab?"

Selene watches the stairs. "Rotom, has Sophie said anything?"

Rotom flies out of her bag. "She hazzz nott. Do you want me to callzz herzzz?"

"Yes, please."

The sound of a connected call fills the surrounding area. Sophie's line rings several times before Selene is taken to her voicemail. Frustrated, she asks Rotom to hang up.

"Are you sure she wants to come with us? I mean, you just invaded her life." Gladion informs her.

Something tells Selene that Gladion is wrong. She knows that she just reconnected with her cousin, and Sophie was likely ditching her. But something else tells Selene to find out why Sophie hadn't shown up.

Searching through Rotom, she browses her Galar contacts. She only has Leon's and Gloria's numbers. Didn't Sophie tell her the other day she was friends with Leon and his boyfriend-the dragon gym leader?

"Rotom, call Leon," Selene demands.

Chairman Rose

Chairman Rose and Oleana stand in the middle of a hall in the Chairman's mansion. "Everything going according to plan, Oleana?"

Oleana nods. "Yes, Chairman, I have the gym leaders busy with events. I have added extra tasks for Nessa, Milo, Leon, and Raihan in case they start wondering where Sophie is."

"And did you cover our tracts?"

Oleana nods. "Yes, I sent a mass text to everyone from Sophie's number stating she was researching in The Crown Tundra and would not have cell service for weeks."

A proud smirk grows on Rose's face. "Good. It seems that the leaked photo of Milo and Sophie sent to different international news outlets did not prove successful in drawing out Selene. Perhaps kidnapping the girl and holding her ransom until the first Alolan champion meets our demands is necessary."

"Yes, Chairman," Oleana responds.

"Very well. Make sure Sophie is well looked after. She is my guest." The Chairman peeks through the door at the unconscious woman lying in a bed.

Intermission Continued

5 pm Hammerlocke

Lucy finishes chopping the onions, pouring them into the concoction brewing. Tonight, she and James are home, an unexpected delight since Lucy dealt with an increase of insurance claims.

"Oi! Should we invite Sophie's cousin?" James yells from the table. Lucy turns around, wiping her hands on a towel. "No. Should we invite every acquaintance we run into in the next two months?"

"Then why are we inviting Milo? We hardly know the man!" James scribbles something on a piece of paper.

"We aren't inviting him, darling. He is Sophie's plus one!" Lucy explains.

Silently acknowledging his fiancée, James continues to write wedding invitations. Shaking her head, Lucy returns to her task. Although it may seem boring to any passerby, Lucy treasured these small moments with James. She never imagined loving someone as deeply as she loved her fiancée. Looking back over her shoulder, she smiles at the man engaged in writing, wishing for thousands of similar moments.

"LUCYZZZ! RAIHAANNN IS CALLINGGG" Lucy's Rotom phone blares through her home, zipping into the kitchen.

"Quiet down now, Rotom. Place him through." Lucy delights in the surprise. She hadn't seen her friend in weeks, let alone chatted with him! "Rai! How are you, love?"

Lucy is greeted with a video of a distraught Raihan. The dragon tamer looks to be almost in tears. "Lucy! Thank Arceus, you replied! Something happened to Sophie-she is missing. She didn't show for a camping trip with Selene, and that girl called Lee. Lee and I just came by her house. Lucy, she isn't here."

Lucy's blood ran cold. Her serving spoon drops on the group in her shocked state. Cursing, she turns off her stove. "I'll be there in thirty minutes."

James hears the entire conversation. He worries about Lucy and what she is going through right now. Sophie is a lovely woman, one he had helped two years ago by guarding her against her stalker Tommy. He worries about Lucy's friend, hoping that all of this was a slight misunderstanding. He can only imagine what his fiancée feels.

Lucy arrives in Wedgehurst in impeccable timing. Down the road, she sees a small group gathered. As she approaches, she spots Milo, Lee, and Raihan with their backs towards her. Nessa, Sonia, Selene, and her two friends spot Lucy's appearing presence and wave her over. The group has a solemn air about them as they discuss possible solutions to find Sophie.

"Sonia told me that she called in two days ago. She was going to the Crown Tundra to do some research." Nessa informs the group.

"Yes, she said she wouldn't have excellent Rotom reception," Sonia adds.

"Why didn't she tell me, though? Oddly, she wouldn't tell me first." Lucy aggressively adds.

"Well, she didn't tell Milo either." Nessa nods to the silent farmer.

Milo stares off into the distance, quietly listening to the conversation.

"Fuck it!" Lucy swears, stomping to the door and loudly banging. "Sophie! It's Lucy! Please be here!"

Silence answers the desperate knock, no sounds of the living inside. A couple of minutes pass before a purple haze seeps out the front window—the haze forms into a solemn Gengar.

"Gigi?" Lucy acknowledges. "What?" Everything clicks into place for her. Something bad happened to Sophie. Sophie would never leave Gigi behind!

Failing to her knees, Lucy begins to sob.

"Lucy? What is it?" Leon asks, perplexed. He looks around at the worried faces of his friends.

"Lucy wouldn't leave Gigi, mate," Milo adds quietly. Raihan drops to his knees, pulling the distraught Lucy into a hug.

"Rose!" Nessa accuses, squeezing her knuckles tightly.

"I agree." The boy called Gladion speaks up.

Lucy nods along with the two. If anything happened to her best friend, she could be damned sure Rose was involved.

"Come now!" Leon protests. "Yes, the man is shady, but to resort to something as low as this?"

Raihan glares at his boyfriend. "We don't even know what "this" is, Lee! Did he hurt her, throw her in a hole somewhere? How can you be so dense not to realize it is him?"

Leon's mouth falls open to disagree, but he closes it once he starts connecting the dots.

"I'll call him or confront him." Leon offers.

Nessa sighs loudly. "Surely you are joking, Leon! Yes, why don't you call Rose and ask about Sophie? 'Hey Chairman, just calling you to ask about my mate. You didn't kill her or nothing?'" Nessa mimics hanging up.

Leon hangs his head, realizing that he should remain quiet- for now.

While everyone is discussing how to find Sophie, Milo stays quiet. He is crying internally, his heartbreaking at the prospect of never seeing his love again. Why couldn't he have ignored Oleana that night and just run out on the photoshoot? Maybe he could have saved her! Obviously, Oleana had something to do with Sophie's disappearance, and it would take all his self-control not to march into Macro Cosmos and demand Sophie's whereabouts.

Selene watches the grass-type expert silently, trying to find the right words to say. She senses how much pain he is experiencing. She slides over and wraps a comforting hand around his arm. "It will be alright, Milo. Sophie is clever. She will never give up and will likely give them a fight."

Milo offers the Alolan girl a small smile, patting the hand wrapped around his arm. Selene returns the smile, unwrapping her arm from his. "We will find her. This Rose doesn't know who he messed with."

Milo ruffles the girl's hair in appreciation. Although he doesn't want to talk at that moment, he appreciates Selene's gesture.

Gigi moves up to Milo, floating up and down to elicit a laugh. "Gar!" She cries. Milo laughs and seems to snap out of whatever funk he is in. "Gigi, pet! Would you like to stay with me until Sophie returns?"

"Garr!" The ghost pokemon jumps up and down in excitement. She dashes off into the house, opening the door returning a couple of minutes later with Beri in her arms.

"Of course, she can come with you. I wouldn't have it any other way." Milo answers.

Selene moves back to Gladion and Hau. "We have to do something. She is family!"

Gladion embraces Selene. "Tell me what I can do." Selene wraps her arms around Gladion's waist, laying her head on his chest. She thinks for a couple of minutes, slowly forming an idea when her Rotom phone rings.

Automatically playing a message, the voice on the other end is loud. "Selene, first champion of Alola, trainer to Necrozma and Solgaleo- let me introduce myself. My name is Rose, and I am the most powerful man in Galar. I would like to discuss with you an interest we share." Selene lifts her head as the screen changes to a video feed. On the feed is Sophie, with torn clothes and eyes full of hatred. Her hands and feet are tied, and she is yelling expletives at an unseen person. "I have your cousin-Sophie. Don't worry, she is unharmed, for now. I ask that you bring your pokemon Necrozma and Solgaleo to Galar. I will send you a designated meeting place. Once we meet, we can discuss the terms of her release."

Dead air follows the video. The entire group has gathered around the phone. Mixed emotions of anger, rage, and sadness vary among the nine people. Milo storms off, Gigi barely keeping up with the rushing man. "Milo!" Nessa yells after him, but the farmer keeps on walking until he is a speck in the distance.

Hau looks at his friend and is puzzled at her response. Selene is smiling at her Rotom phone. "Uhh, Selene?" He asks quizzically. Selene's head snaps to Hau. "I have a plan."

Chapter 14

A flowery smell permeates my senses. Opening my eyes, an unfamiliar environment greets my eyes. Where am I? I remember walking home from the store and then- nothing. I jump to my feet, trying to find a door or window. The only door is on the far side of the room. Mounting my determination, I hastily make my way across the floor, opening the door to a wide back. A tall, large man turns around, looking down at me. I glare up at him, refusing to let him intimidate me. "Get back in the room." He barks.

"Where am I?" I ask.

"Get back in the room!" He yells louder.

"NOT UNTIL YOU TELL ME WHERE I AM!" Very well, if he wants to yell, two can play the game. He snarls, grabs my arm roughly, and throws me against the bed. My calves meet the edge, and I fall on my bum.

"Ya better start listening to me, girly." The large man growls.

"That is not going to happen." I snap.

He grabs my arms again, roughly stands me to my feet, and pulls me to the head of the bed. He grabs the edge of my shirt, yanking it off my body. He ties one side of my shirt to the bedpost while he ties my wrists above my head with the other end. My heart begins pounding in fear, wondering if or when he will go further. He leans down till our faces are inches apart.

I turn my head as his nasty breath hits my nose. "I said, get back in the room. Now, you gave me no choice but to tie ya up, girlie. Sorry about yer shirt; there was nothing else around." He is enjoying torturing me. I swallow back tears, turning my head back and looking at him in defiance.

"Now, I'm not supposed to hurt ya, but the boss said nothing about other…methods." His eyes travel down my body creepily. Goosebumps crawl up my skin. "You're a beautiful girl; I wonder what you're hiding underneath." His hands move behind my back, his fingers searching for my bra clasp. I bite down on his neck, bringing one knee up forcefully into his groin. He howls in pain, jumping back in shock. I grin at his pain. Good, at least he knows I bite. He looks at me for a couple of moments before moving back to me, grabbing my pants and stripping them down. I try once again to kick, but his hands fly to my ankles, holding them down as he makes a makeshift rope. He ties my two feet together, winding the knot tight around my ankles.

"Much better. That's how I like ya." Now, be a good girl and stay still before I take something else off." He guffaws before he storms out the door.

I hear the lock turn behind him. I sigh in relief, tears falling freely. The chill of the room bites my skin, and I try to curl up for warmth, despite my restraints. I begin thinking about my friends. Are they alright? I can imagine Lucy and Milo noticing my lack of responses to their texts. How many days had I lost while I was unconscious? I look around for something, anything to find a date. Not finding anything, I sigh. My search had been nothing but wishful thinking.

Okay, s obviously, someone thinks I am important enough to lock up since I have a guard outside my door. I don't think a mere assistant to Sonia would be important enough to kidnap, considering Sonia shares her research with Galar. That leaves…Selene.

Holy Arceus, this involves Selene! This means that there is only one person that can be

behind this…Rose.

It seems like an eternity before the door opens. The disgusting guard walks in with a tray of food. He places it down on a table next to my head.

"Dinner." He says coldly. He moves to untie my hands. I rub my wrists once they are free, restoring blood flow. "Here," the man says gruffly, tossing me my ripped shirt and pants. "Put this on and eat. The boss is coming, and I don't want him complainin' about mistreatment."

The guard slips out of the room. I grab a piece of bread from the tray, taking a large bite. I shove the rest of the roll in my mouth, looking over at the plate full of food. I hardly care about table decorum, so I start to inhale the entire plate. I am famished!

Rose enters the room after I finish eating. He grabs a chair near the door and places it next to the bed. He sits down, his steely eyes carefully studying my facial features.

"Sophie." Rose greets me like an old friend.

"Rose," I coldly replied. "What is the meaning of this hospitality?"

"Well, I would say it's nothing personal, but it personal," Rose smirks. "I must admit, I'm still disappointed you betrayed me after The Darkest Day. Oleana was by my side from the day of my arrest, often visiting me in prison. Where were you, Leon, or Gloria? The people I raised, who I gave power."

"I'm so sorry, Chairman! I wasn't aware I am supposed to show you gratitude for nearly unleashing apocalypse on Galar!" I roar.

"Now, Sophie, you know that's not true. I was preventing the region from plunging into darkness. I understand it wouldn't be in our lifetimes, but what kind of man would I be not to try to save Galar?"

"One who actually saves Galar," I reply sarcastically.

Rose tsks his tongue. "How have you fled so far astray, young one? What happened to your drive? The Sophie Claire I knew was a pr shark! Now, you are rolling around in bed with that farmer." Rose shudders.

"Oh, the utter horror of having a boyfriend." I sigh dramatically.

"If it were Raihan, Leon, even Nessa, I would understand. But the easiest gym leader to defeat?"

"I'm sorry, is this the part I'm supposed to discuss my relationship choices with you?" I roll my eyes. The man is becoming more delusional by the day! "Nice to see you abandoned your stupid plan of contacting my cousin."

"Oh no, dear one, that is where you're wrong. I just sent a video to her. Although it might be some time until she answers, time difference and all."

A lightbulb goes off. Wait, Rose doesn't know Selene is in Galar! Maybe there is hope for me! I muster a frown. "Selene could care less. I haven't seen her in ten years."

"That is where you're wrong dear girl! She does care-you're family! Not to mention-hasn't she and your aunt tried to reach you? I shall leave." The posh man stands up and moves to the door.

"Rose, wait! You have no idea what you're asking. Necrozma steals the light from other worlds for his fuel! You will be plunging the entire world into darkness!" I speak loudly.

"Sophie, don't stress. I will merge Solgaleo with the psychic pokemon before that happens." Rose seems determined to ignore my warnings. "We need power for Galar."

"You're a bloody idiot, then! Galar has power!" I scream at him in frustration.

Rose whirls around to face me, anger sketched on his poised face. "That so? Those are your thoughts regarding me?" He looks back at the door. "Oh dear, I am sorry about the guard outside the door. He can get quite- passionate about his job. I supposed I should promise he won't resort to such medieval measures next time, but perhaps such measures will remind you of your place." Rose walks out the door. I scream bloody murder at the door, yelling every expletive I can imagine.

Anger, frustration, and fear bubble up to the surface. How can he be so cruel and cold?

The door opens, and I see the foreboding face of the guard. I scoot back to the end of the bed as he hurriedly approaches me. He is beaming as if someone offered him the key to a candy store. I punch him with my fists, my legs rising in midair to kick any visible park of his body. He laughs at me, grabbing my limbs and placing his full weight on my body.

"Now, girly. Is that any way to treat me?" I scream in terror, hoping anyone nearby will hear.

The evil man laughs and points to the camera. "Don't worry, girly; there are plenty of witnesses that are watching."

My eyes grow wide. Who is watching? Arceus, please don't let it be Selene or Milo or Lucy or any other of my friends.

"Now boss said that ya need some remindin'. He also wants to get a message across to yer cousin." He rips the shirt off my body. I try to cover up, but his hands and knees restrained me.

He roughly grabs my pants, pulling at them until they are ripped apart. I can't help but squeal in fright, causing his grin to grow wider. "Now would ya look at this?" He looks down at me, a dominating glint in his eyes. I fight for some control, glaring as his hands touch me.

"Eww. Get your nasty hands off me!" I scream.

The man snaps his attention back to my face. Anger seeps into his features. "Don't ya dare order me around, girly!" He grabs my bra, pulling on it until the clasp breaks. Laughing, he throws the ripped cloth over his shoulder. He repeats the same action to my panties. Grabbing what little cloth is left, he ties my hands and feet to the bedposts.

"Ya look delicious, girly. I'm going to keep ya like this. Be nice now." There was a chill in his tone. He walks out of the room whistling while I scream and cry at the humiliation I'm enduring. I lay my head on the pillow, wondering when this nightmare is going to end.

A week has passed since I was kidnapped. Well, at least that is what some guard said when they brought breakfast this morning. The day after Rose visited my room, he had added an additional guard to my door. The new guard seems much kinder than their coworker. He had even intervened that night when that horrible guard tried to touch me intimately. He barked an order at the new guard, but he backed off, only proceeding to land a punch near my navel. I sigh in relief. Despite being uncomfortable from a lack of clothes, and my limbs being tied, the new guard sneaked in books, extra food, and blankets. There was a couple of times he would cover my bare body with a blanket. I begged him to help me leave, but he would refuse, stating that I need patience.

I settled uncomfortably into my prison, keeping my spirits up with memories of Lucy and me when we were teens, running around Kanto with Selene, and the last time I kissed Milo. Arceus, as soon as I got out of this hell, the first thing I will tell him is how much I love him. The realization came to me on the third day of my residence in this room. All I could think was how Milo is handling my disappearance. I pray that he isn't in pain. I still think about him often, hoping he wasn't spiraling into a dark place.

I take a bite of toast from my breakfast platter. This is one of the rare days where the evil guard wasn't at my door. The new guard had come in to untie my hands before breakfast. I pick up the book on Kalos next to me, traveling to a peaceful place. Some time passes before I hear noise coming from the hall. Screams and loud voices are growing closer and closer. I hear a familiar voice outside, followed by the guard's.

Before I can wonder what is happening, The door opens, revealing n Milo. My boyfriend is disheveled, peach scruff beginning to form around his jaw.

"Milo!" I sigh. Tears roll down his eyes as he sees me. His eyes widen at my state, and he quickly turns around. He doesn't hesitate to remove his sweater to hand it to me. I slide it on and run into his arms. His mouth finds mine, kissing me with longing. I return the kiss, relief flooding through me as I feel the familiar sensation of his lips.

I notice tears in his eyes as we touch foreheads. "Who did that to you, Blossom?"

"One of the guards."

An evil look passes over Milo's face. I grab his cheeks and place a chaste kiss on his nose.
"Please, get me out of here," I beg.

Milo nods his hands underneath my knees and waist, carrying me out the door without another word.

Chapter 15

Milo doesn't let go of me until we are safely in the Corviknight Taxi. I look around in panic, searching for some invisible threat to rip me from my false sense of safety. I crawl into Milo's lap, seeking comfort in his arms. Milo wordlessly pulls me into his body, and the sobs I had held back for days come erupting out of my body. All the frustration, fear, anger, and pain I endured, only stifled by Milo's shoulder. I lay my head on Milo's shoulder until I feel the tears subside. Milo's large hands rub soothing circles on my back, his lips planting a kiss on my head occasionally.

I glance down at my lap, and I realize how little clothes I'm wearing. Other than Milo's sweater covering my bare bum, there are hardly any barriers between us. A deep blush paints my cheeks.

"I'm sorry! I shouldn't have sat on you. I didn't think of decorum at the moment." I start to move off his lap. Milo's arms wrap even tighter around my torso.

"For what?" He asks.

"I'm…well…I'm not wearing much." I hesitate to admit it.

Milo looks at my lap. "Oh…umm…It's alright…circumstances and all." He pulls the shirt down more to cover my thighs. "Let me just hold ya here, alright? I need this." I swear I see a hint of pink on his cheeks. I return to my position on his lap, watching the ground move by as we fly across the sky.

I feel the familiar thud of the landing cab. I look out the window, spotting a familiar group. A soft pair of lips on my throat distracts my thoughts. Turning back, a pair of sparkling emerald eyes greet my violet ones. "I love you," Milo says softly.

I remember what words I wanted to tell Milo if I ever left the hell of a room. Now is the time, Sophie! "Milo?"

"Hmm?" His fingers sweep a piece of hair behind my ear.

"I know this might not be the best time and all, but I love you." Not as delicate as I wanted to be, but it will do.

Milo's face morphs into shock. I study his face, trying to read his reaction.

"Really?" A large smile breaks out on Milo's boyish face.

I can't help but match his smile. "Really."

His lips are on top of mine before I could say another word. His kiss is loving, expressing everything he feels for me. I move my head to the side to deepen our kiss. I am beyond grateful in the moment for Milo, for being in his arms once more.

Milo breaks our kiss and steps out of the cab. He says words to the cabbie before heading to the group of friends. Smiles and hugs greet the farmer, and he talks with the group. Returning with Raihan and Nessa, Nessa is the first to pull me into a hug when entering the cab. She squeezes me against her as if I am going to disappear. When I turn to Raihan, he has his favorite hoodie in hand. Grabbing both ends, he slips the garment around my body. He hugs me after he wraps me in his hoodie. "I'm so happy your alright, princess." He whispers into my hair.

Once my feet step out of the cab, Lucy tackles me. "Sophie!" She falls into tears in my arms. "Arceus! You're alive!"

"I am," I reply.

Everything after my embrace with Lucy is a blur. Somehow, we all end up in Milo's house. Gigi and Beri greet me, but I hardly remember. Nessa and Lucy are on sitting by my sides, alternating comforting me as the group chats.

"Where is Selene?" The first question that pops into my head is the one I choose to ask.

"She is keeping Rose busy. She will be by later." Lucy curtly explains.

"Oh." I hum. I feel Milo's eyes burn into me with concern.

"Oh! Let me bring you some clothes. I have an extra uniform at the gym here. Milo, Lucy, will you both be dears and come with me?" Lucy and Milo hesitate to leave my side, but I nod at them in silent confirmation.

Once the trio leaves, I am alone with Leon and Raihan. Nessa felt that I needed to chat with them, or they need to chat with me. I soon find out the reason when Leon opens his mouth. "Sophie, I am so sorry. I should have known-been aware that Rose took you. I just-I couldn't believe he-or anyone really could-"

Anger flashes in my body. How pretentious is Leon to feel sad in this situation? He wasn't the one kidnapped and humiliated! My anger takes control of the words that come out.

"Oh really, Lee? The man that has been harassing -not asking-harassing me to contact Selene! Someone who I wasn't ready to chat with-but somehow, he gets her here!

Oh! Also, I heard you denied Chairman Rose could have done something so atrocious as kidnap anyone! How could you not believe it for a second, Leon, after everything I had been through? I can't—I can't. Arceus! Did you know what happened to me in that room!? I had this guard-this horrible, malicious guard-who hated me. Rose gave him permission to 'put me in my place.' You know what he did, Leon? He stripped my clothes off! He tied me up with the torn pieces and left me like that for a week! If it hadn't been for a decent guard, I would have likely faced more! Not counting when he hit me several times!" An animalistic scream rips out of my throat. I bury my head in my hands.

"Arceus!" I hear the two men exclaim.

A warm body envelops mine. A large head lays on mine as soothing hands rub my arms. "I'm here for you, princess." Raihan's deep voice rumbles.

I feel something warm laid across my lap, and two hands rest on my knee. I cry while the two men comfort me in the silence. I thought I had gotten all the frustration out of my system earlier, but more came to the surface. I won't complain because every time I cry or vent, a new sense of relief and peace washes over me. I choke back tears before I lift my head.

Leon's champion cape is lying across my lap. Raihan is holding my head while Leon touches my knees. Both men's faces are also wet in tears.

"Thank you." I murmur to both." I didn't mean to blame you, Lee. I'm sorry."

Leon offers a small smile. "Apology accepted."

The door opens to Milo, Nessa, and Lucy. The three stop at the scene but quickly snap back to their normal selves.

"Sophie, I brought you my extra uniform. Not the most comfortable thing, but hopefully, it will help. If you are more comfortable in those clothes, it won't hurt my feelings." She smirks at my attire.

"Thanks, Nessa." I gratefully accept the clothes

The door opens again, but this time Selene, Gladion, and Hau emerge. Selene stops a couple of inches from me, greeting me with a nod.

"Are you okay?" Selene asks.

"I'm alright," I give a short reply.

Selene smiles. "I'm so happy to see you."

"Selene, can I take you up on that camping trip? Tomorrow?" I get down to the main point.

The group looks around at each other, shrugs coming from all around.

"Of course. I will get things ready. I will come by tomorrow morning at eight?"

"Alright." I smile

Selene walks out with her friends.

"May I come too? Camping sounds like a fantastic idea!" Nessa adds.

"Mee too!" Lucy jumps in.

"By all means!" I giggle at my friends' enthusiasm.

"There it is. That smile." Milo beams over at me.

The blush from earlier comes creeping back, threatening to expose me to my friends.

"Alright, then we should leave. Got to prep for a trip and what-not." Nessa and Lucy sense the tension in the room change and walk out the door. I pull off the jacket and cape and return them to Leon and Raihan. "Thank you. You lot are great friends.

"Yes, we are." Raihan teases. Raihan and Leon gather their items before saying goodbye.

Raihan whispers something in Milo's ear while they walk out the door.

"Ummm, I shouldn't impose on you. If you hand me my Rotom, I can call a cab."

"Stay, please." Milo inches closer, holding out his arms. I move into them, wrapping my arms around him. "Is that alright?"

Milo pushes me away gently before his hands touch both sides of my face. "Only if you feel comfortable. Ya can sleep in the guest room if ya not comfortable sleeping with me in the same bed. I will be here for you no matter where you sleep. Although…." He eases forward gently. "….I wouldn't mind at all if you slept in my bed." A devious smile crawls up his freckled face. He reaches down and delicately grabs my arm. Bringing my wrist up to his lips, he places a small kiss on my wrist and turns my hand to kiss the knuckles.

A content smile spreads on my face.

"Can I ask ya, though, if you could repeat what ya said earlier again?" A boyish grin replaces his earlier look.

"What?" I search my memories for what I told him earlier in the day "Oh, I love you."

I wrap my arms around his neck. "I love you," I say again.

"I love you." He whispers in my ear before pulling me into a sweet kiss.

After we kiss, we move back to the couch, curling into each other as I spill out the horrors of last week. At the end of my story, I was shaking, and Milo is fuming. "I want to find him and send Appletun to have a chat with him…" The kind farmer looks into my eyes, "… but I don't want to be like him."

"You're not," I confirm. I give him a small kiss and grab Nessa's uniform on the table. " I think it's best I spend the night in the guest room. I just need to be alone tonight. Raincheck on sleeping together?"

Milo nods and winks at me. "Anytime blossom."

I leave Milo's shortly after breakfast, promising texts for the next week while I am in The Wild Area. Selene greets me just out on the main road with her Fearow. Soon, I am behind Selene on the bird pokemon flying towards our camping location.

"You bring your pokemon?" Selene calls over the sounds of the wind.

"YES!" I yelled against the wind, touching the Pokeball on my belt. With Gigi and Beri safely tucked away, the bird pokemon descends near the stairs to Hammerlocke.

"Good morning, violet eyes!" Nessa greets me when I land.

"Morning." I grumble, still disoriented from the dizzying flight.

"Hey darling, I brought your clothes. In case you don't like Nessa's." Lucy throws a large bag in my arms.

"Thanks! I was just wondering how I was going about a week with just one set."

Our group begins the walk to the Dusty Bowl, swearing to arrive at the land before lunch. The sun is brutal throughout Hammerlocke Hills, but we make excellent time to the area despite the brutal weather. Once we pass the border into Dusty Bowl, a light snow begins to fall. Selene looks around. "This is awesome! Gladion, Hau, let's explore a little!" The three friends wander off, glee in their eyes at exploring a new location.

"Well, I suppose it's on us to prepare lunch. Want to help, Soph?" Lucy hands me a knife and a small cutting board. The three of us work in silence, adding berries and ingredients to the curry dish. Once the curry begins to simmer, I let out Beri and Gigi. Beri's eyes widen as she lets out a squeal of delight. Gigi, on the other hand, floats next to me. "GAR!" She greets.

"Hey, girl," I respond. Satisfied with my greeting, the ghost pokemon floats over to play with Beri.

"So, Sonia will be joining us in a couple of days. By the way, Sophie, she asked if you would take photos and measure the energy from Dynamax Dens?" Nessa hands me a journal and a camera from her pack. Thrilled I have something else to occupy my mind out here, I browse through the camera functions.

"I will finish before she comes," I announce to the water leader.

Lucy moves closer and thumps my shoulder with hers. "How did you sleep?"

"Well, actually!" I smile.

Lucy gives a small smile and looks around. "Listen, Soph; I'm not clear what I should say. I don't even think sorry would do you any justice. I love you, and I am here to listen when you need me, alright?"

I squeeze my friend's hand. "Thank you, Lucy. I did come here to meditate, heal, and be with my family and mates. I think I need time to process things. I just…uh! So much on my mind right now!" I nervously giggle.

Nessa plops on my other side. "Let's chat about something else, then? Perhaps something not related to last week? HMM… So- you and Milo?" She waggles her eyebrows suggestively.

I giggle at the model's attempt at changing the subject. "Actually, I told him I love him."

Nessa squeals in delight. She jumps out of her seat, clapping her hands. "This is amazing news! You both deserve so much happiness!"

"I suppose. I was worried at one point last week that I will lose him, or he would move on while I was in that room!" I find myself confessing my darkest fears to my mates.

Nessa's mouth drops in astonishment. "You must be joking, Sophie! Rest assured, Milo is head-over-heels for you. I should know. I am his closest mate!"

I blush, comforted by her assurances. "That's…that's good."

"Come on now! Don't fluster her before lunch!" Selene overhears the last of our conversation and bounces in to save me.

After lunch, Selene volunteers Gladion, Hau, and herself to help with my training. We walk several meters away from our camp to battle to train.

Gladion studies my form. "Alright, Sophie. Tell me about your partner pokemon, Gigi. What's her battle stats? What moves does she know?" Gigi and I look at each other in utter confusion.

"Umm, I think she knows Shadow Ball?" The Gengar throws a black ball at a nearby rock.

"Does she know psychic?" Gladion demands.

"Uhhh…no?" I half-answer. I'm not sure why Gigi would know a psychic move.

"Why? Psychic would be a good move to make a quick getaway." Gladion states with authority.

Hau bounces in. "Gladion, don't overwhelm her! Now, Sophie, listen to me since I'm the next Kahuna of Melemele Island."

Selene and Gladion groan at the young man's boasting.

"What?! I know a thing or two! I'm much more patient than the both of you, at least!"

Hau releases an odd-looking Raichu from a Pokeball.

"Is that a Raichu?" I ask, tiptoeing closer to the mouse pokemon.

Hau grins. "Yes, this Raichu is an Alolan regional. She is a combo psychic/electric.

The mouse pokemon squeals at the mention of her name, surfing over to Hau.

"Let's go!" Hau throws his fist in the air. I assume the green-haired boy is telling me to release Gigi.

I send my over-excited pokemon after Raichu. It isn't long before we find a salandit in a nearby dune. Gigi and I practice syncing her moves with my commands. It wasn't as easy as I remember since Gigi gets overambitious and exhausts the salandit in two short moves. Hau keeps encouraging, and by the end of the afternoon, I know the moves Gigi had learned over the years. The sun is setting when we pick up our bags and start heading for camp.

"Here," Gladion shoves a disk in my hand. "It's a TM for Psychic. Like I said earlier, if you get in any trouble again, Gigi can use it and delay attackers, giving you time to escape."

I turn the object over in my hands and vow to give it to Gigi later. "Thank you, Gladion."

He grunts and moves ahead.

"Gladion is showing concern," Selene assures me. "It's his way of saying he cares for you. Have to say I agree with him on psychic." I don't get a chance to reply since a strong smell comes from our camp. Smelling curry, Gigi floats rapidly, squealing in delight at the thought of food. Forgetting my conversation with Selene, I chase after my Pokemon.

Chapter 16

I wake up screaming. Visions of The Room invaded my sleep. I was still tied to the bedpost in the nightmare, surrounded by a thousand clone copies of the evil guard mocking my fear. I am exposed, alone, and no one is coming to save me. I pop up in bed with a scream, cold sweat drenching my sleeping bag. I feel a hand on my shoulder and nearly jump of fright.

"It's me! Lucy" My best friend holds her hands in a peaceful gesture, "You alright?"

I nod rapidly. "Nightmare."

Lucy blinks at her Rotom's screen. "Well, it's almost sunrise. Want to climb to the top of the hill and greet the morning?"

"Sure. Let's"

Grabbing two canisters of coffee, Lucy motions me to follow her. It is a short journey to the top of the sandhill. The sky is a light gray at the top, with the first rays just beginning to peek over the horizon. I sigh at the boundless beauty before me, scanning my mind for the last time I watched a sunrise.

"Beautiful," I murmur in adoration.

Lucy's eyes shoot toward the horizon. "Yes, quite so. It's heavenly."

We fall into a comfortable silence, enjoying each other's company as the light show before begin. The sun is painting the sky with pink and purple hues when Lucy breaks our peaceful silence.

"How are you, dear one?" Lucy starts, her eyes still on the horizon.

"I'm dealing." I blankly reply.

"Sophie, you have been through quite a great deal. It's normal to have mental pain from such nastiness. How can I help? Should I give you space? Would you like a friend to talk smack with or just a chat?"

My first reaction is to snap my friend's head off for making my pain about herself. How can she think this is about her? After a couple of seconds, my rational side kicks in, telling me Lucy is trying to help. I smile at her concern. "This camping trip is quite helpful, but I would like to chat about it."

I reach for Lucy's hand. "Let me start from that night." Before I begin, we hear a commotion from behind. Turning around, I see my sleepy cousin approaching. "Mornin' cuz, mind if I join?"

Selene sits in the space next to me. I gently smile at her, grabbing her free hand. "Actually, you have impeccable timing."

As the sun greets the horizon, I tell the two about every horrible moment from the week I was missing. Lucy and Selene are silent the entire time, drinking in every horrible event that I experienced.

Lucy wraps me in a hug when I finish. "I love you, sister." She mutters into my shoulder.

"Love you too, sis," I reply.

"Arceus, Sophie, I'm speechless." Selene squeezes my hand in a comforting gesture.

I steal a peek at the black-haired girl. "Don't be. If it weren't for you, Selene, I would probably still be in that room. Whatever you did to distract Rose and Oleana, thank you."

The smile on Selene's face begins to fall. "Yea about that…"

Concern begins to grow in my mind. What could Selene have done to distract Rose?

Selene nods and turns her body to Lucy and me. "So, umm, Rose knew something was up as soon as I met up with him. He thought I was too willing to meet without much goading. I assured him I was worried about you, but he wasn't convinced that I would care so quickly after ten years. No matter how much I played it off, he was unconvinced. He said that if I was distracting him from helping you escape, he would do something drastic. He showed me these pictures and videos of you bound to the bed…without clothes…on. He said that he wouldn't release them to the media if I gave him Necrozma and Solgaleo. So….I….diddon't have either Pokemon with me, but I did give him the Pokeball with Nihilego. I told him he had to leave the area before I called the Elite Council and had the world's best trainers descend on him. He left afterward…he left the area." Selene's eyes avoid mine at the end of her tale.

My mouth is open in shock. The fact that my cousin impulsively acted without thinking of the consequences should come as no surprise. However, I have to admit the circumstances were unique, and Selene couldn't compromise anyone else involved in helping. Her heart is in the right place, and I would be remiss not to thank her.

I hug her without warning. Selene jumps in fright but soon settles into it. "Thank you, Selene. I had no idea how much you endured to help me."

Lucy nods in agreement. "We will figure it out, love. Right now, let's enjoy the moment."

A couple of days pass in the Wild Area. We all get in a comfortable rhythm—breakfast, training, lunch, followed by walking to the nearest Dynamax den to measure energy levels. We end our days chatting and laughing around the fire. After the second day at the Wild Area camp, Sonia comes by with Hop in tow. After giving us a brief explanation of why Gloria couldn't join, the young scientist approaches the group from Alola, immediately connecting with Hau. The two were instant mates, most likely due to their optimistic personalities.

Today, Sonia and I leave after breakfast to visit a nearby Dynamax den with some curious energy levels. I had discovered it a couple of days ago and noted it in the measurement journal. Once Sonia had arrived, we discussed the reading briefly before deciding to travel to the den. Once we arrived, I begin setting up the equipment while Sonia does a preliminary reading with her phone. "You were right to be concerned, Sophie. These reading are higher than they should normally be."

"What do you think is causing it?" I secure one of the thermal cameras to a nearby rock.

" More than one falling star can be emitting energy, a large energy spot with a variety of Pokemon emitting it or…." Sonia pauses. " Some careless watt traders throwing extra watts into the den."

My heart stops at the mention. It had only been a couple of years since the "heirs of the kings" had unleashed an unprecedented amount of energy, causing pokemon to transform in the most painful manner possible.

"Well, we will have to wait a bit before getting data from the den. Shall we sit?" Sonia lays a couple of blankets near the opening of the den.

"So, how are you doing?" Sonia asks once we sit.

"I'm fine. This camping trip and training bit are quite therapeutic." I take a deep breath.

"Good. I was worried about you. I can't even imagine what you endured…." Sonia changes the subject. "Also, you don't have to come into the lab until you're ready. Just send in your research remotely-for now."

"Thank you, Sonia." I truly work for the best boss in Galar.

"Oh! I have been in contact with professors from different regions regarding you. You have gotten quite the interest! Professor Sycamore, Professor Birch, Professor Elm, Professor Juniper, Professor Burnet have all expressed an interest in your education. You should really consider studying abroad to help round your education." Sonia is beaming in excitement for me.

My heart leaps at the offers. "Arceus! I will have to give some thought to the offers, but I am definitely interested."

Sonia giggles. "Take your time."

"Let's talk about something else to pass the time: How are you and Nessa?" I change the subject. We spend the next several hours exchanging stories about our romantic partners, laughing at the crazy situations they endured in their friendship.

One of the devices near the den starts beeping, the noise increasing rapidly within seconds. Perplexed, Sonia and I rush over to the screen readouts.

"Bloody hell!" I exclaim at the astonishing number.

"Agreed." Sonia removes the device from its pedestal, looking down at the red, glowing den. "It seems there is an influx of energy coming from this source. I truly hope that it is a freak accident from numerous falling stars rather than Macro Cosmos Watt Traders dumping access energy into it."

"The effects on the environment, if this is man-made, would be incredible," I add to the professor's conversation.

Sonia nods. "Yes, quite. Pokemon would Dynamax at random in the Wild Area rather than just the dens. It would cause pokemon injuries or death, not to mention trainer injuries or death. Let's wrap up for today and return tomorrow?"

The next couple of days, Sonia and I are at the odd den every morning to take measurements. Although the following two days showed abnormal high energy readings, the third day showed the den's energy levels to be normal. Vowing to come back later, Sonia packs up and declares our work in the area complete-for now.

Although my mornings are filled with research with Professor Sonia, the afternoons are filled with bonding time with Selene and pokemon training with Gladion with the assistance of Hau. In the short week I spend with Gladion; I had grown quite fond of him, adopting him as a little brother. Gladion seems to feel the same, often chiding me about proper pokemon and personal safety. At the end of the week, I am ready to train and battle with Gigi if the situation arises.

The final night, Nessa goes to a nearby Watt Trader for food. She brings back quite the feast- eggs, cream cheese, sausages, and fruit. Thanks to Hop's and Lucy's successful berry scavenging voyage, we have an assortment of different flavors to choose from. Over a large pit, my group of friends roasts our large feast, laughing and chatting about several topics. Lucy and I manage to start a small food fight with Selene and Nessa; soon, our entire group is playfully chugging berries back and forth among each other.

We stay up late into the night, treasuring the last night we may have together in a while. It is midnight before I check my messages. Milo had tried to call earlier, leaving a short message asking to call him. I grin despite trying to control my reactions. Looking around, I find a quiet place nearby to call my boyfriend. I silently curse myself for not calling or texting him as much as I wanted, but every time I tried to apologize, he would laugh and say he understood.

Milo picks up on the first ring. "Hey, you." I giggle.

Milo chuckles. "Hey yerself, beautiful. How goes it?"

"It's my last night here! I promise I will see you soon." I fake pout.

"How about tomorrow? Come over, and I'll make ya dinner." Milo suggests.

"Hmm, dinner from my boyfriend? How can I say no." I joke.

Milo chuckles once more. "How are you, blossom?"

Knowing what he is asking, I grant a small smile. "Actually, better than last week. It's a process."

We talk for a bit, mostly about Milo's training and my offers from different regions. A yawn escapes my lips before long. Milo lovingly looks through the screen. "I'll let ya sleep. I'll see ya tomorrow, alright?"

Intermission

Selene

Selene has a biting worry brewing in her stomach. A week ago, she made a spontaneous decision-so to speak to help her cousin. Selene often acted impulsively, opting to suffer consequences later. This time- this specific event is one where she hopes the consequences will never come to pass. Selene often flashed back to the afternoon when she met Chairman Rose and Oleana in a park near the large Macro Cosmos tower.

"Selene! How lovely to meet you!" Chairman Rose greets her with a plastic smile. The cold woman to his side remains frozen.

"Hello, Chairman Rose. You have certainly gone to great lengths to meet me." Selene musters her best professional voice, fighting every urge to send her Primerina out and beat the slimy man to a bloody pulp.

"My dear, you are quite beautiful. You and Sophie share looks." Selene chooses a bench far away from Rose, not wanting to be in close proximity to him.

Selene fake smiles. "Why, that is rich coming from the man that is holding her hostage."

Rose's smile doesn't crack. "Understand, Selene; this is not personal- just business. I will be happy to release Sophie, provided you meet my conditions."

Selene stares him down. "Those conditions are Necrozma and Nebby, correct?"

"Yes. Now, if you don't mind, would you hand their pokeballs over?" Rose motions to a briefcase with two empty slots.

"If you don't mind, how do I know Sophie is safe?" Selene questions.

Rose motions to Oleana. The woman hands him a poke tablet. "See for yourself."

Selene precariously grabs the tablet. The image on the screen almost causes her to scream in surprise. On the screen is Sophie, naked and tied up. She is screaming at an invisible person, begging to be let go. Selene chokes back tears and silently hands the device back to the Chairman. "I see."

Selene reaches for two pokeballs. In them, an Alolan Raichu and Nihilego rest. She hoped to Arceus that Nihilego didn't try to latch on to either Rose or Oleana when they released it, but a dark part of her hoped they would-to know the mental pain they caused Sophie.

Rose puts his hand up to stop her. "You seem quite adamant to hand over two powerful pokemon, my dear. You haven't had contact with Sophie in nearly a decade, and you will sacrifice two powerful pokemon for a strange?." Rose thoughtfully strokes his chin. "Now, Selene-I must warn you if this is a trap in any form- I will be forced to release a compromising video of Sophie. We have copies of her position in that room. Now think carefully, are you willing to compromise your cousin's dignity for her freedom?"

Selene grabs the pokeballs and slams them in the Chairman's hand. "I assure you, sir, I am sacrificing my pokemon for my family. There are no hidden agendas. Now, when are you releasing her?"

Oleana steps forward. "Tomorrow. Please meet us at this exact location, and she will be here."

Selene gets up and pulls her bag's strap over her shoulder. "See ya."

Selene walks a couple of blocks, making sure no one follows her. Once she decides she is safe, she ducks into a small café. Sitting in the back are Hau, Gladion, and a man with a fedora. Selene slips into their table.

"How was it?" Hau asks hopefully.

"You tell me?" Selene questions the strange gentleman.

"Everything went according to plan. Milo extracted Sophie, and she is on her way to a safe location." The man responds.

"Thank you for looking out for her this week." Sophie offers a small smile.

The man shakes an image out of his head. "I have been on a lot of assignments that are difficult to watch. This one is difficult, to say the least, digest-to. The torture she endured-She needs patience. I did what I could to make her last days were barrable."

Selene nods. "I still can't believe you managed to disguise yourself as Macro Cosmos Security-let alone guard her door for that time! You're amazing, Looker."

Looker looks toward the wall. "Consider us even, Selene."

Milo

Milo already misses Sophie. She had only been gone for half a day, and he found himself longing for her. This unfamiliar feeling had been growing inside of him every day; every moment he spent with her enforces his growing love for her.

Milo enjoys the dates and moments he had with Sophie. But lately, he has erotic fantasies involving Sophie. The moans he would elicit from her and the ways he would touch her-physically love her. As much as he wanted to give Sophie all of himself, he decided to give her time. Sophie had experienced so much in the two short years he had known her. Milo decided to let his girlfriend initiate the intimate act, longing for the day when she would finally be his. Milo always ended his passionate thoughts with a cold shower or hard labor.

Tonight, for some reason, his usual cold shower wasn't helping. Determined to give Sophie her space, he chose to reach out to a friend. Lucky for Milo, Gordie had rung him up to meet for a drink.

Hours later, Milo is just outside Circhester in a small pub tucked into a small alley. Gordie is already in the pub, in a corner booth.

"Milo, mate, it's been a bit." Gordie greets.

"It has." Milo gestures to the server for a drink. She brings a drink back rather quickly, handing him a napkin and walking away giggling. Milo sighs and looks down at the napkin. Another Rotom number. Sighing, he crumbles the napkin, hiding it behind a glass.

Gordie laughs at the actions, taking a large sip of his beer. "I take it you're not interested, mate?"

Milo smiles. "No, I have a girl."

"Sophie, right?" Gordie avoids eye contact at the mention of her name.

"That's her." A small smile grows at the mention of Sophie.

Gordie tensed up at the mention of Sophie. He had been attracted to the violet-eyed pr advisor since they met. He would only admit that he wished for more than that one night with Sophie, but she declined the polyamorous relationship. He felt a twinge of jealousy towards Milo but swallowed it down for the sake of his friend.

"You're really in love with her?" Gordie chooses his question carefully.

"Yes, she's the one, mate," Milo states matter-of-factly.

Gordie nods slowly. "I will admit, I miss her friendship. I'm trying to stay impartial since she broke Piers's heart, but I…miss her."

Milo chuckles nervously. "Call her. I'm sure she would love to hear from ya."

Gordie nods. "Might as well, Piers being in Unova and all. I'm glad you're alright with it considering our past…. physical history."

"You mean ya and Sophie?" Milo asks. Gordie replies with a nod. "Doesn't bother me much. She wasn't with me, and I trust her." Milo convinces the rock leader. Although he knew that Gordie and Sophie's affair was in the past, he couldn't help but feel slightly jealous that Gordie had been with her before him.

Sensing his unease, Gordie pats his friend on his back. "Good. I can tell you- as someone who has known Sophie for years. She is glowing around you, mate. Never seen her like that- with anyone."

Milo feels a warm glow in his heart. Sophie hadn't felt that way about Piers or her ex-girlfriend? Milo feels a sense of pride growing at being her first true love.

"So…have ya two…" Gordie waggles his eyebrows.

Milo's face turns tamato berry red, choking on his drink. He wipes his mouth with the back of his hand before answering. "Umm, that's between us, mate." Milo always believed an intimate act- such as sex, should stay sacred between two lovers.

Gordie laughs at his friend's bashfulness. "I take that as a no. I'll let it go."

Oleana

Oleana opens the door to her hotel room in Hoenn. After Rose had found out the gym leaders had successfully rescued Sophie, he panicked, quickly booking his private jet to fly to faraway Hoenn. Even more surprising to him was when his scientist had analyzed the pokemon inside the capsules. The scientist found two entirely different pokemon than the ones Rose desired. He was furious, and even now, Oleana can hear him loudly venting and hitting a nearby wall. She pulls her bag out, quietly unpacking and preparing for the next day.

It was better to let Rose alone in these situations; besides, he would soon call on her with a fresh plan. Oleana sighs as she opens her laptop on a desk. To say she was disappointed in Sophie is an understatement. When the icy woman had hired the young pr advisor for the Pokemon League, Oleana envisioned mentoring Sophie, preparing her for Rose's return. Having the intelligent woman on their side would be an asset. Not only is Sophie's cousin the first champion of Alola, but Sophie also has unknown contacts in Kanto- thanks to her parents.

Oleana is sure the young woman didn't know about her parent's friends, but hopefully, after Oleana had groomed her, Sophie would create a bridge between her Kanto contacts and Macro Cosmos. Oleana feels a wave of frustration wash over her at the memory of bending to Sophie's whims. The former president certainly didn't care about Sophie's petty fights with the paparazzi Tommy, let alone her violent assault. Oleana balked at the fact Sophie chose to date Piers-a known romantic, and Milo- the simple farmer. The two men had placed an unknown barrier between Oleana and Sophie, causing her plans to go to rot. Luckily for Oleana, she started grooming the young intern Elise, setting her up to take over Sophie's PR position while the latter was recovering in the hospital.

Elise didn't seem to care about backstabbing her former boss, and soon, Oleana's plan to pave the way for Rose's return was realized. Oleana will admit she found the Chairman's methods to getting his way extreme, but somehow he always got the result. Oleana looks at the video on her screen. The video of Sophie's torture. She wants to delete the video, send it to the vast emptiness of the internet. Chairman Rose asked her to keep it for blackmail purposes-he stated. Rose enters the former secretary's room. "Oleana, I have a plan."

Chapter 17

The following day I leave the campsite in the early afternoon. I find it hard to leave the sanctuary of our camp. Not to mention the solace of being with my family and friends, away from civilization. I say goodbye to the Alola group at Hammerlocke, opting to share a Corviknight Taxi with Lucy. My best mate lives in Motostoke with James, but she offers to drop me in Turrfield.

As the field below pass by, I twiddle my fingers nervously, trying to shake off my growing anxieties. I couldn't shake this feeling that something was about to change.

Lucy interrupts my daydreaming. "Ready to see Milo?"

I nervously giggle. "I suppose."

Lucy's eyes fill with concern. "Everything alright between you both?"

"Of course! I just have this- feeling something is about to change."

"Good or bad?" Lucy presses for an answer.

"Exciting?" Is the only word that comes to my mind

Lucy hides a smile behind her hand. "So, dear one, have you and Milo been together yet?"

I blush. "Lucy, why would you ask that?! Quite inappropriate!" I feel defensive about the unexpected question.

"I didn't mean any harm by it. It's normal to feel nervous your first time." She tries to comfort me.

I knew at that moment Lucy had hit the nail on the head. I am nervous about having sex with Milo. "This isn't my first time, though! I have had no doubts about jumping into bed with Piers or Gordie or Katherine. Never mind a couple of one-night stands! It's just…the final barrier between us. After this, there is no going back to being friends."

Lucy's smile radiates an emotion-motherly almost. "Dear one, none of them are Milo! You two are meant for each other! It is obvious to all of us. Don't worry about losing your friendship with Milo-really your friendship will make your chemistry stronger. When you are with that special someone- the sex is different. It's what James and I share."

My heart softens at my friend's wisdom. When did she get more life experience than I? "Thank you, Lucy." I feel my anxieties lift as the taxi lands near the Turrfield gym.

I stand at the front of Turrfield gym. I know I'm supposed to meet Milo later in the day, but I can't resist seeing him earlier. I missed him in the last week and found myself craving him. I try to brush the dust out of my clothes and ponytail. I had come straight from the Wild Area and didn't change into clean clothes. Arceus, maybe I should? I must look an awful fright! What would Milo think of my messy appearance?

My need to see him outweighed my need to brush up on my hygiene. I walk into the breezy lobby. Rachel, the Turrfield gym receptionist, looks up as I walk towards the desk, her eyes widening when she recognizes me.

"Sophie! This is a pleasant surprise! Is Milo expecting you?" Rachel scrolls through a tablet.

"No, Rachel, I thought I would come early," I answer the young girl. "My name probably won't be in there."

Rachel shrugs. "No matter. Are you well?"

"Very well, thank you. I just got back from the Wild Area. Thought I would surprise Milo" I try to hold back a joyful grin.

Rachel's smile grows wider. I can swear I can hear her trying to hold in her glee. " You two are the cutest! He is out on the pitch."

"It's the boss lady!" Leah runs up and hugs me from behind. I chuckle and turn around. "Leah, how are you?"

The blond trainer smiles. "Quite well! Been training for the upcoming season. Let me escort you to the pitch. Milo will be delighted to see you!" Leah barely takes a breath in between her words. The gym trainer certainly talks fast.

"The gym season coming up?" I ask the trainer.

"Yes! Up until a week ago, that horrid Chairman was running the lot of us ragged! Said we needed to stop being the 'weak gym.' He practically forced Milo to train nonstop! I'm so glad that man is gone, and Leon is back!"

"Happy for all of you."

Leah winks at me. "Happy for you, girl! More boyfriend time!"

Leah leads me to the battle arena. In the middle of the court is a group of kids with Pokemon around them. Milo is in the middle of the group, chatting and laughing. Be still my heart! He looks so natural, so handsome around children. Uhh Sophie, don't get ahead of yourself!

"He mentors young trainers when he has free time." Leah watches my reaction. "I can call him over…."

"No, it's alright. I'll wait." I interrupt Leah. I watch the kids break into duos and start pokemon battling. Milo goes to each duo, giving tips and advice when needed. I watch him in admiration until he ends the class several minutes later. Ok, Sophie, it is now or never!

Brushing any remaining dirt off me, I do a quick appearance check on my Rotom phone. Once I feel I'm presentable, I begin walking toward the pitch and Milo. Milo turns to pick something up when he notices my approach. He freezes in place, his eyes running slowly over my form. A large smile erupts on my face at the sight of Milo's boyish face, his messy pink curls, and the straw hat on top of them. Not to mention his gym uniform, hugging his large muscles. Arceus, I could see every muscle curve in his large form…Arceus Sophie, relax!

Milo's eyes take me in again, making me feel like the only person in existence. Forgetting decorum, I run-up to the gym leader and nearly tackle him to the ground. Milo laughs, lifting me and spinning me around. I kiss his lips while we spin, enjoying the feeling of his lips on mine. He plants me on my feet, and he drops pecks all over my face.

"Hi!" I giggle at his torrent of kisses.

"What a lovely greeting! Perhaps my favorite one of the day." Milo chuckles. His large hands fall to my waist, keeping me in place.

"Perhaps, eh?" I wink at him. Our foreheads touch in affection.

I hear claps and whistles surrounding us. I look around, realizing I forgot about the Turrfield gym trainers. Several "Yea, boss" and "awws" reach my ears. My face turns a light shade of pink from the sideline cheers.

Milo waves and awkwardly smiles at the group, throwing his hat over his eyes to hide his emerging blush. I lean my lips to his ear. "I'm sorry if I embarrassed you."

Milo pulls me tighter against his chest. "You didn't. If I have to hear that lot whistle, it is well worth it for that greeting I got."

Milo motions to follow him into the tunnel for more privacy. He barely gives me time to enter before I am pushed against a nearby wall, his lips crashing on mine.

"Mm mph" The next sentence dies on my lips as Milo's hands' cups my cheeks, his lips passionately taking mine. I put my hands on his chest, feeling the large muscles move beneath my fingertips. I need to end the kiss before we both end up half-naked! I gently push him away. "That is certainly one way to say hello!" I joke.

Milo's eyes widen. "I am sorry, Soph. I should have asked before I kissed ya like that. I just missed ya." His eyes are full of love as he apologizes.

I grab both his hands, intertwining our fingers. "I'm not upset. I actually liked it. I missed you too."

Milo grins at my words, pulling me back against his lips. His kiss is unhurried, gentle, and loving. Our hands remain connected throughout our kiss.

"I want to hear everything about your camping trip, Sophie, but I have to finish up here first." Milo squeezes my hands harder. "Meet me at my place in an hour?"

"Alright," I reply. "I need to shower anyway. May I use the showers in the locker room?"

Milo lifts my wrist to his lips. "Use to one at my place. I'll meet ya there."

My heart jumps in my chest as I approach the gate to Milo's farm. Every single emotion rushes back on me, forcing tears to form. I dry my tears on my sleeve, laughing at my emotional response. I had been in love before with my exes and Piers. However, I have never felt a love like this-one that fills me with such joy and fulfillment. As I walk to his door, I hear the faint bleating of Wooloos in the distance. Ignoring the sound, I turn the latch on the door, finding it unlocked. I take my bag with me into the bathroom, starting the warm shower.

An hour later, I am checking my reflection in the mirror, putting the finishing touches on my light make-up. I found a dress in the bottom of my bag-a a whimsical white lace one. Thank Arceus Lucy had packed one! However, my best mate hadn't packed a cute pair of lingerie, it seems. Wondering why I was suddenly obsessed with how my underwear looks, I settle for some plain white ones. Throwing on the dress, I do a final turn in the mirror and flip my hair to the side. Hearing the door open, I push my bag to the side and walk out.

"Welcome home, Milo!" I walk out and greet.

Milo freezes in the hallway, his mouth hanging open. He stares at me for several long seconds in silence.

I giggle at his expression. "You alright?"

Milo nods. "You're just…wow….you're beautiful."

I walk over to him, wrapping my arms around his neck. He pulls away slightly to kiss my lips. After a chaste kiss, our foreheads touch. "I really could get used to this welcome home greeting." Milo smiles.

"Me too! Although I hope you would sometimes be the one greeting." I mumble.

" I promise! I am quite happy because I have been waiting forever to kiss ya again." His lips crash on mine, lovingly caressing them in slow, simple motions.

"Milo, you are the cutest." Another soft giggle escapes my lips. It seems Milo knows how to pull the sound out of me!

"And ya are gorgeous." He answers. "Will ya stay the night?"

"Funny you should mention that...I left a bag near the shower." I admit.

"How was your trip?"

"Incredible. I really feel much better after spending time out there. Not to mention reconnecting with Selene." I continue my story as we head to the kitchen, where I sit and watch Milo begin preparing a curry.

Milo stirs some mushrooms into a mixture. "I was worried about ya this week. I wanted to be there to comfort ya. I wasn't sure if I should text or… "

"You really shouldn't have worried! I needed to time away with my friends. You have done so much for me." I assure him.

." A soft kiss on my forehead is his answer.

"I also need to chat about something. It's about the offers Sonia told me about." I start a difficult conversation off.

"Ya told me a bit about it. Are you leaving Galar?" I could see the worry in Milo's eyebrows that he tries to hide. Maybe now wasn't the best time to bring up studying abroad.

"I don't know. It is a hard decision." I lean my elbow on the table. "Let's talk about it some other time."

Milo stirs the curry, taking a small taste. I could tell he was thinking about something-something important. "Sophie, ya deserve to be happy. I know…. I know this may be a big step for us, but if ya do decide to move out of Galar, I'll go with ya."

I jump to my feet. "Milo, no! You're a gym leader! Your family is here, your farm, your friends…" I am spinning into a spiral, thinking of everything he would leave behind.

Milo crosses the room, pulling my body into his. "Sophie, listen to me. I love my life here, but I love ya more. I am not saying it won't be easy, but yer worth the risk, Blossom. Besides, I am the weakest gym leader in Galar, remember?" Milo laughs at his dark joke. Before I can disagree, he adds, "Let's eat."

Later that evening, Milo and I are watching a scary movie on the telly. My body is curled into his, both of his arms are wrapped around me, his lips occasionally finding my hair. Milo is such a doting boyfriend. I can hardly imagine what my life would be like without him. Arceus, how I love him!

With a knowing smile, I move out of his embrace and straddle his lap, sitting on my knees. Milo's eyes follow mine until he is looking up at me. I grab his straw hat and place it to the side. Using my fingers, I rake them through his hair, enjoying the silky curls brushing my fingertips. Milo grunts at the touch, leaning fully back against the couch. He pauses the telly as his hand reaches to my cheek, "You alright, Blossom?" Blossom. The nickname that makes me swoon. I nuzzle my cheek into his palm. "I love you."

He plants the sweetest kiss on my lips, massaging my cheek as he lavishes attention. "Repeat it."

I beam. "I love you, Milo."

The largest smile breaks out on the man's face. I cannot imagine a more beautiful view at the moment. Smiling, I lean my head down and place my lips on his. My hair cascades around our heads as our kiss deepens. Milo reaches a hand up, tangling it in my blonde hair. Our tongues entwine with the other, exploring and longing for more. A soft moan escapes my lips. Milo presses his lips harder against mine as his neck arches further up to reach my face.

Milo pulls away from my lips. "I am the luckiest man in Galar."

I lean down for another kiss. My lap begins to fall until I am sitting on his legs. My hands move underneath the hem of his shirt, feeling the amazing sensation of his bare skin beneath my hands. Feeling something poking my inner thigh, I reach one of my hands down to his thighs, palming his clothed length. A growl escapes Milo's throat, and he jumps away from my touch. I smile against his lips; satisfied, I pulled the sound out of him. He pulls away completely, placing my hands to my side.

"Did I do something wrong?" I ask, slightly hurt that he might reject me.

Milo shakes his head. "No. It's me. I want to make love to ya. I also want our first time to be special. I know ya have been through a lot and don't want to pressure ya into anything."

The blood rushes to my head at his words. I have never heard any of my exes tell me they "want to make love to me." Something about the way Milo says it feels so intimate, so alluring. I crush my body into his and move my face until it is less than an inch from his. "Make love to me then," I say huskily.

Milo groans, picking me up in one swift motion-his self-control gone. He carries me with no hesitation towards his bed. I suppose lifting all the Wooloo and hay bales helps his lifting skills! Our lips meet as he gently sets me on the bed, his body climbing on top of mine.

"Ya are so beautiful." Milo's husky voice is near my ear. "I want to take my time and savor every inch of your body."

Goosebumps form at his words. His mouth lands on the curve of my neck, kissing the pulse point gently. He lifts his head. "May I?" He strokes the curve of my neck with his calloused hands. Realizing he wants to leave a mark, I breathlessly nod my consent. Milo sucks on the skin forming a small mark. I mewl at his touch, pleasure forming from my neck down to my core. His lips move to my collarbone, leaving feather-light kisses in his wake. He moves back up to the mark on my neck, licking and kissing it until he was satisfied with his work. I feel the pressure from his kisses and licks overwhelm me, and a sound I barely recognize forms in my lungs. His hands move to my thighs, stroking the spot where the dress meets my skin. He lifts the fabric to my hips, moving back down to kiss the newly exposed skin. He repeats his actions, lifting my dress inch by inch, kissing newly exposed skin. I am left a whimpering mess by the time my dress is pulled over my head. Milo leans on his elbows, admiring my form. His mouth lands on my stomach, pecking around my navel. I feel his pink hair tickle my skin, and I sigh at the euphoric feeling that overcomes me as he moves to my chest. I arch my back as his hands reach behind me to find the clasp of my bra. Milo kisses my lips tenderly as he undoes the clasp and removes the offending clothing. Milo balances on his elbows once more, staring down at my bare breasts. "Sophie, ya are beautiful."

"So are you." I sit upon my elbows, trying to kiss his neck. Milo stops me, guiding my body back on the mattress, returning his lips to my chin. "Let me touch ya first. I want to make tonight all about ya."

I fake pout but then settle on tugging at the bottom of his shirt. I am rewarded when he removes it off his torso. I move back slightly to get a peek at his uncovered chest. I knew Milo was built, but Arceus knows I never imagine how big, how amazing his muscles look. I move my hands over his chest, mesmerized by his large muscles. Milo hums at the touch, moving down to kiss my breast. His mouth twirls around my nipple as his hand reaches over to cover the other. He pinches my right nipple between his index finger and thumb while rolling my left nipple in his mouth. I moan at his ministrations, arching my back into his touch. I watch transfixed as his big hand envelops my right breast, kneading it with gentle squeezes. A louder moan comes from my throat, threatening to turn into a scream. The sensations Milo sends through me are overwhelming and indescribable. His mouth and fingers switch breasts, ending his attention to my chest with a mark on each side of my breasts. His lips travel slowly down towards my panties' hemline, kissing and exploring each inch around my hips. He hooks two fingers underneath the fabric, looking up at me. "Are ya sure, babe?"

I bite my lip, giving my silent consent with a nod, and my panties slide off my legs. Milo pushes my legs apart with his hands, working his mouth from my inner thighs down to my toes.

"I love you," Milo whispers the words with each kiss, like a prayer being offered.

"Milo," I moan his name, fully enjoying the attention he is giving my body. His hands move up and down my sides, exploring my curves while his mouth moves up my legs. He finds a sensitive spot near my knee. He smiles at me as he leaves a light mark on the cap. His lips reach the spot between my thighs. He experimentally licks my sensitive bud and is rewarded as his name leaves my lips. Placing his tongue on the bundle of nerves, he moves his tongue back and forth. He inserts one finger into my entrance, growling at how wet I am.

" Arceus, you're wet, baby. So beautiful…" Milo growls as he places another kiss on my thigh. He moves his mouth back to my center, swirling his tongue slowly to test my limits. I bury my fingers in his peach hair, arching into his mouth as I moan. Milo lifts my legs on his shoulders, his tongue swirling faster on my clit, causing pressure to build in my stomach. He inserts a finger between my lips, pumping a couple of times before inserting another finger. I moan his name, wishing him inside of me. Right as I am on the precipice, he moves his tongue on my lips, lapping up the juices inside of me. The sensation proves to be too much as my release comes quickly. I scream out Milo's name as my body falls apart around his tongue. Milo stays between my legs as I come down from the high, licking up the liquids from my orgasm.

" Ya taste so sweet, Blossom. Just like I imagined." Milo kisses me as he lays his chest on top of mine. The feeling of my breasts squished against his chest causes more liquid to pool again at my entrance. I wrap my arms around his shoulders, surrendering to our passionate kiss.

" I love when ya say my name." His voice grows deeper with the last sentence. I kiss him as I reach down for his shorts.

Milo removes his lips from mine, pulling his shorts and boxers off. He pumps his length for a couple of strokes, and I'm afforded a nice view of Milo's package. He is very large, width-wise, and I worry for a moment about how he would feel inside of me. Milo relieves my stress, returning to kiss my lips, his fingers claiming my entrance. He prepares me for him, slowly inserting two and then three fingers, pumping inside of me. He finds the fold of skin that makes me moan. He smiles in pleasure, reaching for something on his nightstand. I grab his arm.

"No. I'm on birth control. Please, I don't want there to be any barriers between us."

Milo merely nods, returning his lips to mine as he lines up at my entrance. He entwines our fingers together. "Are ya sure?"

He asks one last time.

"I am" I squeeze our conjoined hands.

"I can't wait to feel ya." Milo kisses the side of my lips, pushing his tip inside of me slowly. I wrap my legs around his waist, encouraging him deeper. Milo moves inside of me slowly, checking with every thrust forward for any sign of discomfort. I move my neck up to kiss him, and he pushes into me all the way.

"Ya are so tight…" He moves slowly inside of me, taking his time in the action. He never quickens his pace, instead opting for a slow, sensual rhythm. Our voices sing in ecstasy, enjoying the intimacy of our bodies becoming one. I never felt anything like this until tonight. This must be what making love is. Regardless after tonight, I can't imagine being with anyone else besides Milo. I feel the man's love and worship of me through his physical touch, through his intimate kisses. I come undone around him, my inner walls clamping around him as my release comes. "Say my name," Milo growls into my ear. I cry out his name, and his lips cover mine. He tastes the next moan from my lips as he comes undone inside of me.

Milo kisses my head. "That was amazing."

I hum in agreement. Milo pulls out, and I roll onto my belly, enjoying the glow of our lovemaking and a view of Milo's backside. Milo rolls on his side to caress my back, leaving an occasional kiss on my shoulders. "Sophie, I love you."

"I love you too."

Milo pulls my back against his chest. "You are beautiful, incredible, and I'm the luckiest in all of Galar to call ya mine."

I contently sigh at his affectionate words. "I'm yours," I reassure him. Milo sears his lips on mine before uttering his next phrase. "I'm yours, Blossom. I always have been."

"Arceus, Milo, how can you be so perfect?"

"You deserve it, beautiful. I will treat ya like a queen as long as we are together." Milo kisses my shoulder blades. "I want to make love to ya again," He yawns. " but I think we should sleep for now."

I lay my head on his chest, and he chuckles, wrapping his arms around me. "Sleep well, Blossom."

Chapter 18

The sounds of wooloo bleating wake me from the sweetest sleep. A cool breeze tickles my face, bringing memories of last night. I blush as I remember the places Milo touched and marked. Arceus, the sex is amazing! I finally understand what Lucy was talking about yesterday-about intimacy being different with someone you purely love. I twist around, touching the other side of the bed, only to find it empty. I sit up, wrapping the sheet around my chest. Milo must be doing his morning errands. I look around for something to wear, but before I can grab a shirt, Milo is back with a bouquet of wildflowers. He sits down on his abandoned side, holding out the flowers.

"Milo!" I gush. "They are beautiful." I bury my nose in the colorful assortment, taking a long whiff of the aromatic scent.

Milo lays down next to me. "I will give ya flowers every day if ya want."

My heart bursts at how sweet he is. I gently place the bouquet to the side and reach over to him. I place a gentle kiss on his lips and begin to return my head to my pillow. Milo has other plans, as his two large arms around my waist. I quiver at the feel of his hands on my bare skin. A satisfied hum reaches my ears, followed by a shift of movement and a mouth peppering kisses on my back and shoulders. I giggle as his hands caress my curves, and I turn to face Milo. His pink hair is quite the mess, hanging all over his eyes and pillow. His beautiful emerald eyes sparkled as he took in my form. Sometime between my good morning kiss and his affections, he had removed his clothing.

I pull him to my lips. "Good morning, handsome." His tongue runs along the bottom of my lip, seeking permission to enter. My lips part to allow his tongue inside. I roll on top of him, burying both my hands in his hair. My mouth never leaves his as I tangle my fingers in his curls further, moving to the nape of his neck. His hands run along my spine, sending goosebumps along my arms. I kiss his chin and move a line down his throat. He grabs my face touching my forehead to his. "Good morning, beautiful."

I move down his body again, gently scratching his torso as I move down. My mouth arrives at his hardened member. I take it in my hand and gently pump it. Milo hisses at the touch throwing his head back. "May I?" I ask.

Milo nods. I open my mouth and swirl my tongue around his tip. Milo groans at the action, and I slide down his shaft more, wanting to draw more sounds out of the man. I move my mouth up and down his length, swirling my tongue at his tip. Milo's grunts grow louder as his fingers find my hair and tangle in it. Wanting to feel him come in my mouth, I quicken my pace, feeling his member quivering in my mouth. Milo comes undone with a call of my name, his seed spilling down my throat. I release him and move back to his chest, laying down on top of him. Milo's eyes are glazed over. "Sophie, you're amazing. But I want to be the one to spoil you."

"I wouldn't want you to spoil me!"

Milo wraps around my waist. "Why wouldn't I? I told ya, you're my queen."

"As you wish, my king. So that you know, I don't consider going down on you a chore. In fact, I quite enjoy it." I whisper in his ear seductively. I lay my hands on his biceps, running my fingers down his arm. His pupils darken at my touch, and his hand moves behind my head, pulling it to his lips. Our hands begin to wander over the other's bodies, each moment our carnal desire growing. Milo rolls on top of me, wrapping my legs around his waist. My hands take hold of his back.

"May I?" He lines with my entrance. I crash my lips on him. We are calling each other's names in a short amount of time. Coming down from the high, we spend the rest of the morning in bed.

It is not till early afternoon that Milo even suggests we leave. "I want to show you around Turrfield, but take your time getting ready." Milo tilts my chin for a kiss.

"Alright, I am sure I kept you from some morning chores." I hum in disappointment

.

"The only place I was supposed to be this morning is here." He brings my wrist to his lips. "I'll be outside when you're ready."

Milo takes my hand as we walk down the street towards the ruins on top of a hill. I spot the large carvings in the grass before we make it to the top. I visited the ruins at Turrfield when I was a gym challenger, sitting on the top for hours, trying to decipher the carvings. That memory didn't hold a candle to this present moment with Milo.

I am getting a tour of the ruins by the Turrfield gym leader himself! How many Galarians would kill for this tour? A sense of pride fills me as I look at the scene around me. Old ruins line the streets below, each one with an inscription. I am too wrapped in the view and Milo's presence to notice a duo of girls ogling us.

"I am sure you are familiar with dynamixing and The Darkest Day?" Milo's voice snaps me out of my dream. He switches to holding my left hand, pointing at the details.

"I think after Eternatus, every Galarian is familiar with The Darkest Day! I would certainly love for you to tell it." I couldn't help but be with my boyfriend. Milo laughs at my tease, squeezing my hand.

"Well, this carving is supposedly representing Pokemon dynamixing…" Milo is interrupted by loud voices. "MILOOOO!"

"MILLOOO! SOPHHHIEE!" Two teenage girls run up to us with stars in their eyes. "MILO AND SOPHIE! We love you! We think you're the cutest couple in Galar!"

Milo smiles at the two girls. Meanwhile, I am speechless strangers recognize me "Well, thank ya so much. How are you two?"

The girls laugh. "We met you both; our day is fantastic! Will you take a picture with us?"

The girls squeeze around us. "Alright, selfie time!" The four of us smile at the flashing Rotom.

"Now, can we take one with just Sophie?" The smaller of the two asks. The girls turn their eyes on me. Arceus, how can I say no to those Pikachu eyes?

"Sure," I reply. The girls squeal in glee. Their Rotom phone flies in the air, taking several shots of us.

The girls look at the photos. "Thank you, Sophie! We think you are the bravest person in Galar! The way you stood up to the arse Tommy? Amazing! Do you have a gym card?"

I smile sadly. "I'm sorry, girls. I am afraid I don't."

The two young children sigh in disappointment. "Do you have a Poke Gram? We…"

"Alright, girls. I need some time with my girl! Ya have taken up enough time with her." Milo winks at the two children. "I'll post her poke gram tonight, alright?"

The girls agree. They wave goodbye before running down the road.

I interlace my hand with Milo's. "I have fans? Who knew?"

Milo brings my hand up to his lips. "I'm not surprised. Ya are amazing."

He pushes a strand of hair behind my ear. I plaster a smile on my face. "Part of my job as one half of Galar's cutest couple, eh? What else do you want to show me?"

He motions with his head back to the small village, and we began our descent. He takes me to a small shop adorned with fresh flowers. "This is my flower shop."

"Ah, the famous flower shop of the Turrfield gym leader! Do show me." I tease the farmer.

He smiles from ear to ear as he reveals his small shop. I laugh in delight, looking at the myriad of colors splashed in and out of the store. He leads me in and waves to some ladies behind the counter.

"Milo!" An older woman behind the counter greets. "Is this Sophie? You finally brought her around, did'na?" The woman moves in front of the counter to hug me. She holds me at arm's length to look at me. "Why she is as beautiful as you say! My dear, this boy can hardly stop talking about you! I was getting curious about the girl who stole Milo's heart."

Milo's cheeks were red as the lady spoke. " Come now, Agnes! She doesn't need to know all of that!" I laugh at their interaction. He pulls his large straw hat over his eyes to hide his glowing red cheeks.

"Thank you for the compliment!" I bow my head.

"Now none of that! You will be family before long, so no need for formalities!" Agnes cackles.

"Agnes!" Milo yells behind his hat. I hide my smile behind my hand, not wanting to laugh at my boyfriend's embarrassment.

"My boy weren't you the other day talkin' bout…"

"OI!" Milo cuts her off. Agnes back off, now that she had her fun. "You will get used to this, Sophie. Milo is always so calm that it is nice to see him flustere' a bit." She winks at me. Agnes reaches around for a single-stemmed red rose. "Here is a little gift. Now, I must get back to my work. Go enjoy your time together!" She shoos us out. Milo still has his hat over his face, mortified by her teasing. Deciding not to press it further, I grab his free hand. "Your shop is lovely! Where else shall we go?"

"How about dinner with my parents?" Milo turns his head expectantly toward me.

We walk up to a small cottage, and my heart starts beating quickly. "Milo, are you sure? What if they don't like me?"

"Sophie, they will adore you." Milo lays a kiss on my knuckles before opening the door. We walk in to be greeted by an older woman.

"Milo! There ya are! " The woman I assume is Milo's mum wraps the large man in a hug.

Three men appear in the doorway at the sound of her voice. They all have a similar appearance to Milo. I assume they must be Milo's father and brothers.

Milo's mum turns to give me a once-over. "Is this the girl, Milo? Welcome, dear! I'm so happy to meet ya finally!" Milo's mum wraps her arms around my shoulders

Milo's dad comes up to greet Milo and whispers in Milo's ear. They both laugh, and Milo looks over, beaming. His dad introduces himself. "Welcome. I'm Milo's dad. We have heard great things 'bout ya! Why my boy can hardly stop talking 'bout his girl!"

Milo wraps his arm around my shoulder, pulling me closer to him. I am soon engaging in comfortable conversation with his family. Milo's mum brings out some tea and various pastries while answering questions from Milo's brothers and dad. "Yer cousin is the Alola Champion?" Milo's older brother Adam asks. "Milo ya never mention' that!"

"Wasn't mine to share." Milo shoots back at his brother.

Adam turns to me with a mischievous glint in his eye. "Sophie, did Milo tell ya about the exhibition match a year ago where he battle' yer cousin?"

Milo's face falls. "Don't."

I look back between Adam and Milo. "Wait, what? You never told me you met Sophie!"

" Probably because yer cousin is quite the trainer- kicked his arse in battle. He probably didn't mention it 'cause he went congratulate her, didn't knock on her door and walks in on 'er with 'er boyfriend.!" Adam is practically in tears by the end of the story. I snort, unable to hold my laughter.

Milo grabs his brother's collar and wrestles him to the ground. "Oi, why you gotta tell her that?" The two brothers are so caught up in their wrestling they slam into my chair. I yelp and throw my feet in the air.

"Stop it, ya two! Can't ya see ya almost hurt Sophie?" Milo's mum berates them. Milo's head shoots up in concern, running over to me to check for bruises. "I'm fine."

"Well, ya lot. Dinner is ready then." His mum turns around to head back into a dining area.

After our dinner, Milo asks me to wait outside with his brother so he can have a private chat with his parents. I lean against a stone fence, watching as various pokemon peek out of the tall grass. Adam calls out to me from a small stable. I head toward it, noticing he is about to clean a Mudsdale.

"Need some help?" I offer.

Adam looks over at me. "If ya like, ya can brush her. I don't want you getting too dirty since ya look nice and all."

I laugh. "Thanks for the chivalry, but I'll be fine."

Adam guffaws. "Alright, lass. Milo sure got a looker, eh?"

I smirk and grab the brush, starting at the Pokémon's head. Adam breaks the silence. "Milo is taken with ya."

"Well, I feel the same."

The older brother's face lights up. "I can tell. Don't tell him I told, but he is probably in there now, tellin' mum and dad how he is goin' to marry ya."

My heart beats erratically. I compose myself before Adam sees how flustered I am. "I am sure it's a bit too early for that. We have only dated for a couple of months!"

"Ya know when ya know, lass." He winks.

Milo waves over at us. I say goodbye to Adam, running over to him.

Once we arrive back to the farm, I take off my clothes, relief singing through my sore muscles. I want to slip into my sweats before preparing dinner. My eyes wander around the room and land on one of Milo's old gym tees. The devil on my shoulder whispers a seductive idea in my ear.

Taking off my underwear, I slip Milo's jersey over my bare body and walk into the kitchen. I begin looking around the kitchen for the ingredients to make my special spicy curry when I hear a sharp intake of breath behind me. A pair of arms suddenly lifts me and takes my body to the couch, laying me gently on the cushion. I am face to face with Milo, and his lips sear into mine as if he hasn't kissed me in years. "I like how ya look in my shirt."

"I really like it. It's quite comfortable." I giggle, wrapping my arms around his neck.

"Wear it anytime you want" His hand moves underneath the shirt, caressing my exposed skin. He groans at the feel of my bare body underneath his hand. "Milo, dinner…" His lips are on my neck, kissing and sucking. He looks at me for permission before lifting the shirt off my body, exposing me. "Forget it. I want to make love to you."

I wake up in a cold sweat screaming into a room. I look around in panic expecting some unknown threat to attack at any moment. I am bare, my clothes nowhere to be found. Grasping around in the dark, I feel around desperately for any scrap of my clothing. The fear in my body begins to build at the thought of the evil security guard breaking in to hurt me. I feel a movement and hands on my back. I scream, moving to the edge of the bed in terror. "Soph?" Milo's sleepy voice cuts through the silence.

"Please don't hurt me!" I scream. Why did I just scream?

"Blossom, I would never hurt ya!" Milo moves cautiously towards me. "I'm coming to hold you, alright?" I shrink away from his outstretched hand. "I need my clothes!" I scream at the dark. A gentle rustle at my feet alerts me to a large shirt thrown at me. I pull it on quickly and wrap my arms around my knees. I hear Milo's voice again. "Sophie, can I hold you?"

I snap back to reality as I am pulled into a warm body. I start shaking all over, and Milo squeezes me tightly against his bare chest, my racing heart slowing at the feeling of his arms and warmth. Tears and sobs of frustration rack my body, and I bury my head into Milo's chest. He buries his face in my hair, letting me cry.

"I'll protect ya. I won't let anyone hurt ya. I love you" Milo pulls me with him back into bed, holding me tightly until I fall asleep.