Chapter 8
"You're doing it again." warns the redhead in annoyance.
"Doing what?" the bluenette innocently asks.
"Yeah, like what are you talking about, Misty?" The pinkette chimes in.
Narrowing her eyes at her sisters, Misty replies, "Having me deal with your problems. Go bother Daisy."
Lily rolls her eyes. "Daisy has Aster. We need a quiet place. These pregnancy hormones give us headaches."
"I didn't tell you two to get pregnant! This is not my problem!" Exclaims Misty once more. Mew.
Her sisters unexpectedly were in her home when she returned from the gym today. The last time she saw them, they announced their pregnancies, and she told them she wanted no part in it. She'll be a supportive sister who will love her nieces and nephews wholeheartedly, but she will not be forced into anything that is not aunt duty. She will not hold barf bags, raise children, nor will she deal with pregnancy hormones.
"This is our home too, Misty." Violet reminds the youngest Waterflower. "We can stay here whenever we want." They are late in their second trimester right now, making life more difficult.
Misty is glad her sisters came in the middle of the week because if they came on the weekend, they'd see Ash. It's been months since she started her secret relationship with Ash. After the whole Philip thing, Philip hasn't come around. Ash and Misty never spoke about that. Although they are more comfortable with one another, they're not nearly at the level of friendship as they were when they were children. They're cordial, and they enjoy the sex.
"Then I expect you two to help with the cleaning." Misty isn't anyone's maid. She recalls the mess her sisters would leave when they lived here.
"But we're pregnant! We can't clean up!" Lily reminds Misty.
"I suggest you don't make too much of a mess then. If I have to hire a maid, it's coming out of your cut." She narrows her eyes at her sisters.
Lily and Violet are technically still gym leaders, meaning, they get paid from the League without doing the work. Fortunately, Misty doesn't need much money to get by, so she doesn't mind giving her sisters their allowances. It took years before all four of them could come to an agreement on how much money they all get, though Lily and Violet then resorted to dating rich men so they could have more money.
"I'm gonna go close the gym up. You guys figure out dinner." Because her sisters arrived this afternoon, all Misty did was lock the gym doors before coming to check on them. Seeing as how they've made themselves at home, she'll clear her mind away from them. Closing the gym and being with her Pokemon relax her, and are much better than being around Lily and Violet with their hormones.
With Misty walking to the gym, she quickly sends Ash a text: Lily and Violet are back. Don't come over anymore. Not getting any sort of a response, Misty pockets her pokenav once she reaches the pool.
Pallet Town
Sighing, the raven haired man looks up from his pokenav. "I guess I can help you out this weekend then."
"Really?" Gary lifts his head away from his papers to give Ash a surprised look. Just a few moments ago, Ash was adamant about being gone for training this weekend, like he does every weekend. What's with the sudden change? Obviously, Gary figures Misty bailed on Ash, per their sneaking around. Nevertheless, the timing just worked out too quickly. Being immersed in his research, Gary hadn't noticed Ash sigh earlier.
"Yeah." Grins Ash. "It's been a while since we hung out with the Pokemon, Gary. I'm happy to help." They do see each other on the weekdays, though Gary is always working.
Leaf has something with Silver this weekend, making Gary free as well. Hence, Gary told Ash about cleaning up the field and Pokemon enclosures. "Let's sneak in a battle, Ashy Boy. I wanna see how all that training has helped you."
Gulping, Ash hopes his blush isn't too noticeable. "Uh, yeah." Although he's excited to battle, Ash is nervous because he isn't really training on his weekends. Has Gary noticed? "We'll win!"
"We haven't battled in years. You don't know what I've got up my sleeve."
"You don't know what I have too then."
"Your battles are always on TV, man. I can just look up some of them." notes Gary, causing Ash to sheepishly scratch the back of his head. There's that con to being a top trainer.
"Heh, heh. Yeah…"
Chuckling, Gary gets up to swing an arm over Ash's shoulders. "Cheer up, Ashy Boy. I'm sure all those weekend trainings have paid off."
And there Gary goes again bringing up the weekend trainings. Ash attempts to play off the comment, "They sure have, Gary! You're gonna regret challenging me to a battle!"
"Oh really?" Gary easily sees Ash gulping every time Gary brings up the weekends. Teasing Ash is one of his favorite passtimes. "How about we make a bet then?"
"What kinda bet?"
Shrugging, Gary heads back towards his desk when he hears his pokenav ding over there. "If I win, you clean up the Tauros pasture by yourself."
"Ew." Ash scrunches up his nose thinking about that stinky task.
"They are mostly your Tauroses, dude." Half of the herd belongs to Ash.
Ash sighs because Gary is correct. "Fine. Then when I win, you need to stop telling Leaf I'm a gay virgin."
Gary busts out laughing. Despite knowing Ash is definitely not a virgin and he's very heterosexual, Gary just loves messing with his old friend. "That's if you win." The professor unlocks his pokenav to read the message from his favorite woman.
"I'll win." Ash confidently states. His old rivalry with Gary, his first rival, is burning inside of Ash. Ash is eager for the battle this weekend.
Curious that Gary's banter has stopped, Ash looks over at the auburn haired man. Seeing Gary's lips curl up into a smirk makes Ash very nervous. That look is never good on Gary. Not when Ash is around because it usually means Ash is about to get teased about something big. Something Gary somehow gained knowledge of, which Ash never has any idea how that happens.
Therefore, when Gary meets Ash's eyes, Ash swallows another lump in his throat. "Leaf just texted me. She said Misty's sisters are in town." No wonder why Ash suddenly became free.
"Oh. That's nice?" Ash tries to play it off, like he didn't already know this information.
"Did you know?"
"No. We don't talk anymore."
Raising a skeptical eyebrow up at Ash, Gary inquires, "Did you ever visit Misty back in the fall?"
"What do you mean?" Ash really hopes Gary can't see him sweating.
"The day after the dinner at Leaf's." Gary has been meaning to ask Ash about this. The timing just hadn't worked out until now.
"Oh. Uh. Yeah. I mean, you called, and you sounded pretty worried, and she is-uh-was a really good friend of mine, so I felt like I should visit, you know?" mumbles the man quickly. "But nothing happened!" Ash hurried adds, making Gary more suspicious. "She yelled at me through the door about how I should've gotten the hint already and left her alone, so I left." He recalls the fuming redhead that night he broke in to check on her.
"That's it?"
"Yeah. I did tell you she hates me." sighs Ash. He really hopes Misty still doesn't hate him, though they never talk about their relationship. Is he just a convenient lay? Does she despise him when they're not having sex?
Spotting the sad frown on Ash's face, Gary's conscience gets the better of him. He'll save the excessive teasing for this weekend. Right now, he won't be the ass he usually is, mainly because Gary is sure Ash is lying. Lying about everything but the fact that Misty somehow still hates him. That's the only thing Ash has said with any true emotion this whole conversation.
Next Day
"Like, are you okay, little sis?" questions the cautious bluenette from the hallway.
Misty falls back away from the toilet, causing her to rest her back and head tiredly against the cool wall. "Yeah. It might be the food." Leave it to her sisters to get her sick off of takeout.
The older sisters exchange worried glances. If Misty is vomiting from the food, they will be soon too, right? That's not good for their unborn children. "We should go to the doctor!" Lily exclaims.
"Guys, I'm fine." Misty doesn't want to run into Philip, nor does she believe she needs a doctor. It's just mildly bad food. She'll be fine after a while.
"No! For us, Misty!" Violet tells the redhead who now rolls her eyes.
"Yeah! Our babies can't get sick!" Lily frantically speaks.
"I'm pretty sure you're fine. You guys aren't throwing up." Misty hopes to bring them back down to earth.
"Because maybe our babies are!" Violet grows more concerned. "We need to go to the hospital, Misty!"
Still not feeling well, and add in her obnoxious sisters, Misty hurls more vomit into the toilet. When she finishes, Lily and Violet are still worrying about themselves. "Fine. You guys can go." If it means she gets some peace and quiet, Misty will take it. Of course, she'll be left with the hospital bill. Fortunately, all of her sisters are still registered gym leaders, meaning they are covered by the League's very good health insurance plan.
"You're coming with us." Lily firmly states.
"No. I told you I'm fine." The redhead just wants to sleep.
"No way, Misty! You puked a lot, and you look so pale. If it's something serious, the doctors can treat you there!" Insists Violet.
"I don't need a doctor."
"You're coming." Lily and Violet each grab one of Misty's arms, despite her small fight. She doesn't want to accidentally hurt her pregnant sisters, so there's not much resisting she can do. Plus, Misty feels lethargic after puking. Therefore, the three sisters make their way to the Cerulean City General Hospital.
Hours later, what Misty was trying to avoid proves to be inevitable. Her eyes narrow into an obvious glare at the equally shocked man in the room. Eventually, he diverts his attention to the clipboard as the other two women chatter away at him. Why is he here? Per his occupation, he works the emergency room hours at times. Never did he expect for the Waterflowers, especially Misty, to be his patient. He's more of a surgeon, and Misty is usually too responsible to need ER or surgeon care.
"Ahem." The doctor uncomfortably coughs to quiet down Lily and Violet. "So it says here you have food poisoning?"
"Yes! Well, Misty does, and we all ate the same thing!" Violet states while Lily nods in agreement.
"We just want to make sure our babies are okay!"
Nodding, Philip keeps his eyes glued on the clipboard, though he can still feel Misty burning holes into him. "Uh. We'll run a few tests and get back to you."
"Please run all the tests, doctor! Our babies are our lives!" Violet worriedly places a hand on her bump.
"The fact that you and Ms. Lily haven't vomited is a good sign. I'm sure everything will be okay, but we will be extra diligent for our gym leaders. I'll have a nurse come run some tests." Philip then leaves, but Misty hops off the table to dash after him before the door shuts.
"Misty?" Lily raises a curious eyebrow at her very quiet sister. The whole time in the car and the waiting room, Misty was complaining nonstop. She was unusually quiet when the doctor was here; however, that could be due to him not being here for long.
"Maybe she's puking again." Violet looks at the closed door with concern.
Sighing, Lily leans back on the medical bed. "I hope we're all okay so, like, we can finally go home and sleep."
"You can say that again."
Out in the hall, Misty manages to grab the doctor's arm and pull him into a more secluded hallway. Pinning him against the wall, her glare resumes into his nervous eyes. "Is this some joke to you, Philip?"
Seeing a nurse in the corner of his eye, Philip moves Misty's hand away from his throat. He'd rather avoid his coworkers and employer know about his relationship with the gym leader. Therefore, he's holding Misty's hand in a way that seems like a doctor soothing a frantic patient. "I swear, I had no idea you were here. I'm just doing my job."
"Coming to my home wasn't enough for you. Now, you make sure you're the doctor attending to my sisters and I?"
"I have no control over this!" Philip attempts to tell her again. "Listen, Misty, I was a horny jerk last time we met, alright. I get it, and I'm sorry. But please don't cause a scene and get me fired!"
"Everyone deserves to know what kind of perv you are!" fires back the redhead.
Mew. Philip doesn't recall ever angering Misty like this. "I can see if another doctor can take over, but we're swamped here. This is the ER."
Before Misty can argue more, a nurse walks by to say, "Doctor Philip, they really need you in room 46 now."
Philip looks past Misty to gratefully nod. "I'll be right there, Erin." With the nurse now gone, Philip directs his attention to the now more calm gym leader. "I don't like this either, so I'll make sure they run your tests quickly. That way, we won't be in each other's way anymore."
"Better." Misty growls. "If I find out you're up to something-"
"I'm not! I'm very professional about my job. Just go back to your room, and I'll try to have you out in an hour."
Letting out a long breath, Misty decides not to cause more of a scene in the hospital. She releases Philip and returns to her room where she is subjected to listening to her sisters' constant chatter. First, Lily and Violet unexpectedly come home with their pregnancy hormones. Next, Misty has to cancel on seeing Ash for who knows when. And now, she has food poisoning where Philip, of all people, is her doctor. This week just can't get any worse.
And it does. "Miss Lily, Miss Violet, you're both fine, and so are your babies." Philip informs the older women who let out very loud relieved sighs. As soon as the test results were ready, Philip made sure to quickly handle the Waterflowers. He doesn't want the explosive gym leader to do anything that will risk his job.
"Oh thank you so much, Doctor Phil! We were so worried!" Lily hugs Violet tightly.
"Yes! Thank you! Our babies mean the world to us." Violet too clings onto Lily.
Misty rolls her eyes at her dramatic sisters. Now they can finally leave. It's been very uncomfortable having Philip as their doctor, but Misty can't exactly force the hospital to change their doctor without everyone finding out about her relationship with Philip. Thus, the redhead crosses her arms over her chest and leans back in her chair. She has since felt better, so she doesn't need to be here any longer.
"So, like, what was wrong with us?" Lily inquires.
"Nothing. You both are showing normal vitals." Philip moves onto his third chart.
"Really? But we all ate the same food. How come only Misty got sick?" Violet chimes in.
Philip furrows his brows in a way Misty does not like. Is he messing with her? Is it something else? Is she really sick? Oh no. "None of you had food poisoning." Philip then raises his head to meet Misty's eyes for the first time since she cornered him in the hall. She can't read his expression. Is it concern? Anger? Confusion?
"Oh no! Is Misty...dying?" Lily gasps in fear.
"I'm not dying!" Misty hisses at her sisters. She then faces Philip again, still unsure of his demeanor. As much as she hates how she has to talk to him, she does, "Am I?"
The doctor faces his clipboard at the sisters as he states, "You're pregnant, Leader Misty."
"Pregnant?" The Waterflowers exclaim, taking Philip aback.
"Uh, yes. We ran multiple tests, but it appears you're 6 weeks pregnant. Did you know that?" Philip's heart aches because he knows he hasn't had sex with Misty in months. There's no way this is his child, as much as he likes her. Could that raven haired man who punched him be the father?
"You're pregnant?" Lily now faces the stunned redhead.
"Whose baby is it?" Violet yells. "How?"
With the constant questions coming from her sisters, Misty eventually comes out of her daze to shout, "Stop!" This makes everyone in the room silent while they watch her come to terms with her new reality. Misty meets Philip's eyes again. "How sure are you? Tests can be falsely positive, right?"
"I mean, we ran it multiple times. And it'd explain why you were vomiting." Philip can't help the small smirk forming on his lips. "Is the father not in the picture?"
Oh wow. Fucking Philip. He would use this to gain an edge over her now that he's out of her life. Misty glares at the man. "The father is a great man. A respectable dependable loving man. The best one I know." She sees that her words irk Philip because his smirk falls.
"Lucky him." Philip dryly responds. "I suggest you see an OBGYN soon. And you better let this great father of your child know he's expecting." The surgeon assumes it must belong to that Pikachu's trainer from that day. It infuriates Philip that Misty allowed another man to trap her down so quickly.
"I will. Thanks." Misty then grabs her coat. "Let's go, Lily. Violet." With Misty leaving the room quickly, the surprised older sisters chase her out.
Once in the car, the questions come flying back at Misty. "It's true?" Lily exclaims because Misty had basically confirmed it to the doctor earlier. "You're actually pregnant?"
"Who's the father?" Violet asks. "And why weren't you using protection?"
They have no right to question her! Misty slams on her brakes in annoyance. Fortunately, everyone is wearing a seatbelt. Turning around, she faces her slightly scared sisters. "You both have no right to question me when you don't even know who the father of your children are!" They've never been responsible. Everything has fallen on her. The gym is a prime example. Therefore, they cannot judge her.
Nevertheless, their questions are warranted because Misty too is confused on how this all can happen. She's been on birth control for years now due to her sexually active life. Even with birth control, she always makes her partners put on a condom. Did a condom break one time? Mew. Why is this happening to her now?
With her sisters silent now, Misty resumes driving them back to the gym. Her heart is still pounding at the news. She's pregnant. Fuck. She's pregnant, and with Ash's child. He's the only one she's had sex with for months now, but he's supposed to leave in a couple of months. Regardless of the uncertainty between them, Misty is glad that Ash is the father of her child. Out of all of her flings, he's the only one she can fathom a future with him.
Philip has been cut off. Diego is a flake, and not fatherly material. She's not sure when she'll ever see Logan because he's always traveling. Plus, Logan is not the type to settle anywhere. Sergio would settle down with her, but she doesn't want that. Okay. Sergio would most likely be the better option over Ash because Sergio will raise the kid with her. And Sergio is sweet. He gives Misty space. Nonetheless, Misty is glad Ash is her baby's father, which she knows is due to her buried feelings for him.
After arriving home, Misty continues ignoring her sisters. She makes a straight line to her room where she locks the door and falls on her bed. With her face in her pillow, she lets out multiple loud screams. Misty is ashamed of herself because she has been giving her sisters so much shit about their unplanned pregnancies with mystery men. Now, she's done the same exact thing! She's supposed to be the responsible admirable gym leader!
Once she's calmed down from her outburst, Misty reaches for her pokenav. He needs to know. They're both in the same boat. Because she's a gym leader, the news will get out sooner or later. It's better he hears it from her. Regardless of what Ash says, Misty will keep the baby. She has the means to raise one, and with Lily and Violet living back home again, she'll hopefully have ample help.
Rereading the text, Misty grows increasingly more nervous. She can't tell him over text. It needs to be in person. Her eyes land on the last text she sent him, which was yesterday: Don't come over anymore. Lily and Violet moved back. He thumbs upped the message, and that was it. Arg. Lily and Violet definitely won't be leaving anytime soon now. Whatever. It's not like she and Ash are anything. She was the one who told him she didn't want commitment, yet now they'll have to be committed.
However, if Ash doesn't want to be in the baby's life, Misty will respect it. That will really show his no-commitment to her. Does she want him out of her life? No. Misty can try to tell herself she doesn't need him, but she's always wanted him. She actually wants him now. Can she blame these feelings on the hormones? Well, she will. Fortunately, some reason in her tells her she's acting rashly.
Deleting the text, she quickly types out a new one to send: Can we meet tomorrow?
The redhead sits up to shower off this shitty day. She doesn't expect a message from him anytime soon, but her pokenav buzzes right away. Seeing that the sender is indeed him, she opens up the message nervously. Are you sure? Well, she did message him yesterday telling him to stay home.
Yes. At the Pokemon Center. We'll act like you're just my old friend visiting me. She responds.
Nothing. Maybe he's busy tomorrow? This is abrupt. A few minutes go by while Misty anxiously waits by her pokenav. Her shower is forgotten because she just wants to know what he'll say. He definitely is thinking out a response since he replied back quickly the last time. Misty sees the thought bubble appearing and disappearing multiple times before a message is finally sent: Ok.
It took him that long for one word? What is he thinking? Is he nervous? Does he already know? Why is she overthinking? This whole pregnancy thing is not for her, especially with her given situation. A nice bath and sleep should help clear her head in the morning. And then she'll have to see him. Not in the privacy of her gym, but out in public as they pretend to be friends. How will she break the news to him? This is torture.
Next Day
"Pi pikapi pikachu pikachupi pika!" complains the mouse.
Sighing, Ash changes his hat once again. "This seems serious, Pikachu, so you need to stay home. I promise I'll bring you next time."
"Chu!" Pouts Pikachu, finally giving up on trying to convince Ash to take him. Pikachu continues glaring at his anxious trainer.
After receiving Misty's text yesterday, Ash wasn't sure what to do or think. First, she told him to avoid coming to Cerulean City because of her sisters. Then, she tells him to come and they'll make it work? Although a part of him wants to believe that she just misses sex with him, something else is telling him that's not it. That something serious is happening, and she needs him. He's hopeful that she finally sees him as a friend again.
"Pikapi!" Pikachu snaps when Ash switches his hat again. If he keeps this up, he won't make it in time to see Misty.
Sheepishly smiling at Pikachu, Ash says, "Heh. Guess this one is fine. Uh. I'll be back by tomorrow… I think?" He did tell Gary he'd help out at the lab this weekend. Moreover, Ash doubts Misty would want him sneaking around Cerulean City for too long. That'll make so many people suspicious. Nevertheless, Ash doesn't mind staying in the city with her if she lets.
Telling his mother he's training without Pikachu today, Ash eventually leaves on Charizard. The whole flight, he keeps mulling over his thoughts, like he had last night. What if Misty doesn't just want sex? What if she wants more? He doesn't mind, though he doesn't want to get his hopes up. Mew. Or what if she's breaking off their relationship in person? Misty is the type who communicates important matters in person.
"Char!" Charizard doesn't like how sweaty Ash is on him.
"Sorry, Charizard. I'm just nervous." Nervous is an understatement.
Fortunately, they reach Cerulean City without any issues. Ash takes in a deep breath before entering the Pokemon Center. Nothing is helping to alleviate his nerves, but the anticipation of seeing that redheaded beauty is alluring enough to give him courage. With it being mid-day, and Cerulean City being huge, the Pokemon Center is a bit busy. So busy, that Ash doesn't see the gym leader until she taps his shoulder.
The moment he looks in her direction, she gives a very excited, "Hey, Ash! I thought that was you!" Wow. She's never been this happy to see him, or this expressive. Thus, Ash just blinks at her in awe, making this a very unnatural conversation. "Say 'hi', dumbass!" Misty hisses, causing Ash to return to his senses.
"Um. Hi, Misty." Quickly shaking his head to get out of his daze, Ash clears his throat. Right. This is a show. She isn't this happy to see him. She never is. "Long time no see!" For some reason, whether nerve or his buried feelings, he reaches in for a friendly hug. Misty, surprised, returns it just because they're in public.
Now, she gets just why Ash is so awkward and confused. This is uncomfortable. After patting Ash on the back, Misty pulls away, despite wanting to stay in his embrace longer. The few eyes on them in the Pokemon Center are preventing her from doing anything else. Luckily, the city is accustomed to Misty's many visitors. They know she used to travel years ago.
More fake small talk later, and the two have agreed to walk around the city together to catch up. "Where's Pikachu?" Misty saw Ash enter the Pokemon Center without the mouse. There's no way Ash gave Nurse Joy Pikachu. Unless Ash was here earlier and was at the center to pick up Pikachu? No. Misty specifically told Ash not to come to Cerulean City until now.
"He wanted to stay with my mom." Lies the man. He would tell Misty the truth, but they are still in public. Someone might overhear and get suspicious.
Nodding, Misty hopes looking at the sky will calm her down. She was up all night thinking about how she'd break the news to him. Yesterday, she had to close her gym early due to being at the hospital. She's closed it again today under the guise of being sick, which isn't a lie. However, everyone in the city sees her walking around just fine. Misty rarely closes the gym, especially multiple days in a row. Will the city get suspicious? Is she just over thinking?
"How are your sisters?" Mew. He thought they were past these forced conversations. Well, that's because they would just have sex and the small talk came easy when it did happen.
"Annoying." groans Misty, causing Ash to let out a small laugh. This makes Misty curiously face him again, in slight annoyance. "What's so funny?"
With his chuckles dying down, Ash lets out a long breath. "This." Misty cocks her head to the side, still clearly unamused. "I mean. I thought we were getting along fine, you know. It's just funny that we're back at the beginning."
"Shh! Ash, someone can hear you!" Misty hisses.
"No one's paying attention." Ash nods to the people walking around them. "We should let loose, Mist."
"Stop calling me that."
"Let loose." repeats Ash with a grin. Regardless of it being a show to the city, he appreciates Misty being friendly with him again. "We're friends who haven't seen each other in over a decade! Let's have fun!"
Sighing, Misty's firm resolve softens seeing Ash so happy. His optimism is contagious. The air around him is so alluring. No wonder why he always draws people and Pokemon to him wherever he goes. Ash is Ash: a sweet, goofy, outgoing man. Misty's nerves relax a bit because this is the type of man who will make a great father. Telling Ash shouldn't be making her this tense.
Alright. Ash has got her. He's right. All these nerves can wait. Right now, they are in public, so they may as well act like friends who are enjoying themselves. She may as well enjoy herself. Jogging ahead of him, Misty turns to run backwards and face him. "Okay. What do you suggest, Mr. Pokemon Master?"
And there it is. Her nickname for him he hasn't heard in a while. He always loves it from her. Smirking behind his blush, Ash replies, "Hm. It's afternoon. What's there to do in Cerulean City?"
"It was your idea to 'let loose'." Misty reminds him.
Spotting a building in the corner of his eye, Ash's grin lights up. "I've always wanted to grab a drink with every one of my friends! Let's go!"
Oh no. When Ash grabs Misty's wrist to drag her in the direction of the bar, Misty follows. It's only when they're a few feet from the front door that she digs her heels into the ground. Feeling the restriction, Ash returns his attention to her. "Uh. Technically, it's gym hours, so I, uh, shouldn't be caught drinking alcohol instead of running the gym."
"Oh. Right." Ash sheepishly mutters. How could he forget that she's a gym leader? That's mainly because he only visits on weekends when the gym is closed. Wait. If she can't drink because she's supposed to be running the gym, then what are they doing? "We should go back to the gym then, right? Your lunch break must be over."
No way. Lily and Violet are there. They will for sure spill the beans to Ash before Misty can. Lily and Violet may be slow, but they might figure Ash is the father. After yesterday's ER trip, those two are constantly pestering Misty with countless questions. They basically assume any male Misty interacts with got her pregnant. Misty had to practically pry them away from the door this morning to prevent them from asking the mailman any questions.
Waving her hand at his comment, Misty tells Ash, "I closed the gym for today. I rarely close it, so it's fine."
Ash's heart tightens. Can he hope she closed the gym for him? Because she wants to spend the day with him? "You need a break. I'm glad you closed it."
And there he goes again with that damn sweetness of his. Misty rarely lets him talk when they're together. This is a reason why: Ash's personality makes her fall for him again. She could blame her hormones right now, though that's such a cop out. "Yeah. I figured, since I might not see you before you leave, then we should catch up." That's not a lie. Ash is supposed to travel again in the fall, which is in a couple of months. With Lily and Violet home, Misty won't be able to sneak around as often anymore.
"Yeah…" What did he expect? That she actually wanted to hang out with him like a friend? He should've known she's just being nice and courteous by giving him a goodbye in person. Something he never did. "Well, uh, if you don't wanna go to the bar, then did you want to eat? I'm starving!" Although he ate before leaving Pallet Town, Ash's appetite is always in search of its next meal.
Glad that he's changed the topic, Misty can giggle in relief. "Yeah. I know a place that just opened up recently. I've been meaning to try it out."
"Ou. I love new food!" Ash is falling for her words again. She wants to try out this new restaurant with him. He's not naive enough to think that she waited specifically for him, but the fact that she's taking him to a restaurant she's been eager to go to means something. At least, he hopes it does.
Fortunately, the wait for the restaurant wasn't too long. Despite having to stand outside in line for some time, the two estranged friends were talking like no time had passed. They reminisced on their past journeys, and Ash shared some he went on without her. Of course, this pained her to hear because she would still be traveling with him today if she hadn't stopped years ago. Nevertheless, the universe has a way of always bringing them back together.
"I'm so stuffed." Ash rubs his protruding belly as a loud burp leaves his lips. He noticed Misty has been very absentminded today. Maybe she's just as wary as he is of their current relationship?
Misty scrunches up her nose while walking beside him. She's stuffed but not as bad as him. Ash is such a vacuum when it comes to food. "Excuse you."
"Heh. Sorry about that, Mist." Ash sheepishly chuckles.
"Stop calling me that." She reprimands him again. Sometimes, she allows him to use that nickname on her. However, she can't allow him to get too comfortable. Despite their fun day, Misty doesn't want Ash getting any ideas that she wants him back in her life that way. She'd rather him stay out of her life, like he's good at doing. Mew. Today was so fun, she's forgotten all about her reason for calling him here.
"I think I need a nap." Food comas hit hard.
Misty rolls her eyes, grateful he's such a distraction. "Where are you gonna nap? The sidewalk?"
"Pokemon Center?" He doubts she'll let him go to the gym with her sisters there.
"Are you really that tired? It's not even dinner time yet."
"Ugh. I don't think I can eat dinner." They had eaten between lunch and dinner; however, Ash is sure he's too full to eat anything else today.
"Wow. Ash Ketchum can't eat dinner? That's new." jokes the redhead.
"When linner was this good, then yeah. I can get full." Yawning, Ash adds, "And sleepy."
Nudging him in the side, Misty wants Ash to remain awake. She's still trying to find the right time to tell him...if she can get around to it. "I know what will keep you awake!"
"Hm?"
"Let's battle!"
His eyes light up in excitement. Anything regarding battling and Pokemon always brings so much life in Ash. He's such a simple person. Ash is a kind hearted man who loves food and Pokemon. Misty is glad to have met someone like him in her life, regardless of how much she wants him out of it now.
"You're going down!" She won the last time they happened to battle, so Ash is ready for his revenge. While he doesn't have Pikachu, Ash believes in his team.
Giggling, Misty grabs Ash's arm. "C'mon. I know a place!" She is supposed to be sick, as far as the League knows. If news of her battling right now spreads, she might get in trouble. Even though Misty can't battle at the gym, she knows various outdoor places she would train in seclusion. The gym is nice and all, but being outdoors with her Pokemon is even better.
Some time later, Ash has narrowly lost to Misty. Regardless of how much training he does during the week with his Pokemon, she's done a lot more as a gym leader. There have been a few times they've battled where he's won, but Misty has more victories over him right now. It ignites the rivalry in him every time they battle, especially when he loses.
Misty, despite enjoying teasing him about her win, finally became fed up with his sulking. Since there is no one around them, she suggests they fish at the nearby pond. Well, she'd rather they do something else, though Misty won't risk getting caught in public. Not with everything going on right now. Plus, the thought of still breaking the news to Ash is preventing her from wanting to be intimate with him.
"Misty?" Ash says her name for the third time now while also waving his hand in front of her face.
Blinking out of her thoughts, Misty mutters, "Huh? What was that, Ash?"
He frowns slightly because Misty has been very absentminded today. Moreso than usual. Does she hate the thought of spending time with him like this? "I was asking if you still wanna be a water Pokemon master?" She did beat him just a few hours ago, so he's been dwelling on that loss pretty hard. Misty is such a strong trainer. Ash is curious if she's doing anything to excel.
Sighing, the redhead grips her fishing pole a bit tighter. "I guess. I don't know? It seems like such a childish dream now haha. I haven't really thought about it in years." The only times she could feel herself dreaming big was around him. His energy is contagious. So much that Misty often tried to match or exceed it. Thus, causing her to once proclaim she wanted to be her own Pokemon Master, just like him.
"I don't think it's childish." His words cause her to look at him now to see his gaze is also on the setting sun. "I still wanna be a Pokemon Master. I won't give up until I am, so you shouldn't give up either."
"I have the gym's reputation to uphold. I can't leave it to my sisters again." Misty won't let the gym become a joke again.
"But you can still work towards your dream while taking care of the gym too." suggests Ash.
"It's not that easy, Ash. I have responsibilities and no time."
Ash frowns. "Sounds like a bunch of excuses to me."
This makes Misty narrow her eyes at him in a glare. "You wouldn't understand. Your mom lets you do whatever you want, and she will wait for you to return. You have nothing holding you back from focusing on your dream. I have the gym, and my ditzy dependent sisters, and the city-"
"Okay! I get it!" Ash raises his hands up in frustration. "But I think you're selling yourself short, Misty." He faces her irritated blue orbs. "You're such a strong trainer. Stronger than any gym leader I've battled, but you're just settling for this? I always thought you'd be a Water Pokemon Master before I ever won a Pokemon League."
"Tauros shit." She still blushes from the compliment, no matter how much he is infuriating him.
Shaking his head, Ash reels in his line. It's getting late and he should go home soon. Plus, irking Misty like this isn't exactly how he planned his farewell with her. "You can always tell when I'm lying."
That's true. Ash is such an easy book to read. Anyone can tell when he's lying. He rarely lies, though he often boasts and stretches the truth around her. Wanting to change the topic because Misty doesn't want to argue right now, she asks, "How's your mom?" What a shitty transition, but anything to not talk about herself anymore.
Noticing the sudden change in topic, Ash chooses not to pry about Misty anymore. They're not exactly friends, even though they spent the day as friends. "Good. She's still gardening and stuff."
"And making sure you change your underwear?" Teases the redhead who can't help herself. Hearing Ash groan, Misty giggles beside him.
"I'm almost 30, and she's still on my case about that."
"You must've done something to make her keep reminding you." Misty leans against his shoulder out of old habit. "What was it? Poop your pants once?"
"No!" Blushes the embarrassed man. Add in Misty's shoulder touching his shoulder, and Ash's body is getting more warm. "I don't know? I was a kid or something. She's always reminded me of that." Kid. Ash groans again as his body returns to a normal temperature.
Sensing the drop in mood, Misty worriedly eyes him. "Is everything okay, Ash?"
He sighs. "I kinda wish she would complain about the underwear now." Lately, Delia has been complaining about something else.
"She stopped?"
"Kinda? But I was handling that fine."
"What's it now?" The curious woman inquires. "She wants you to start traveling again? Is your mom finally sick of having you muck around at home?"
"Ha ha ha, Misty. Very funny." Ash dryly responds. "Actually, she's been on me about the opposite."
"You are a momma's boy. I'm not surprised if she'd prefer you stay home with her." That's a true possibility.
"Nah. She wants me to settle down already."
Oh? That's news to Misty, though they are getting older. Moreover, Ash Ketchum isn't really an anything but Pokemon kind of guy. Misty can see Delia telling Ash to focus on other aspects of his life. "Didn't you just get out of a relationship?" Misty recalls Ash mentioning this months ago.
Laying on the cool grass, the man mumbles, "Yeah." Recalling his Kalos friends getting together so soon after his breakup still somewhat irritates him. Nevertheless, he is happy for them. "But it's not just that. I just wanna focus on myself and being a Pokemon Master." Spending the day with Misty is really making him open up easily to her, like when they were younger. Can't she see this? Why can't she just allow him to be her friend again?
"I get it."
"You do?" Ash faces her in surprise to see her holding her knees to her chest.
Nodding, Misty tells him, "Yeah. You don't wanna settle or stop your life until you're ready. And you won't be ready until you accomplish your dreams." While one could still work on their dreams while married, Misty understands it can be difficult. The family life can often come in the way of one's dreams. Tracey doesn't draw as much as he used to before.
"Is that why you've been single?"
His question catches her off guard. "Um. I guess?" Why hasn't she gotten into a relationship with any of her flings? Some of them aren't terrible people. Who is she kidding? The only reason she can't be in a relationship with anyone is because she still has feelings for this dunce in front of her who she does not want to be in any sort of relationship with.
Groaning once more as he recalls yesterday's conversation with his mother, Ash exclaims, "How am I supposed to give her her grandchildren when I'm not even in a relationship? She should be bothering me about finding a wife more than giving her grandkids."
And there it is. The topic that's been on Misty's mind all day. Fighting her rapidly beating heart, Misty finds the courage to ask, "How would you feel about being a dad?"
That's a weird question that came out of nowhere. Nevertheless, Ash is still heated about his mother's constant reminders to notice Misty's changed demeanor. "I wanna be a dad some day. Just not right now or anytime soon, ya know? Like I still wanna be a Pokemon Master and accomplish my dreams and do so much before I have a kid. My mom says I can still have a kid and travel and stuff, but what if I die? My dad died on a journey before I was 1! I don't even remember him! I'm not gonna do that to my kid. And-Misty?"
He was so caught up in his rant that he neglected to pay her any attention. Why does she look so scared? And like she's about to cry? Misty never cries. This makes him more concerned, thus, he places a comforting hand on her shoulder. Seeing her shake out of her daze worries him more. There's only so much he can ignore about her absentmindedness today.
"Are you okay, Misty?"
"Uh. Yeah. I'm fine." Lies the woman.
Just like how Misty can see through Ash's lies, he can see through hers. They were friends for a decade. Regardless of how much time passes, old habits die hard. "You've been spacing out a lot today."
She waves off his concern. "Work is on my mind. Don't worry about it."
But he is worried because he knows that's a lie. Why won't she just tell him the truth? Yeah, she doesn't want to consider him a friend anymore, but talking and ranting usually helps people feel better. He already feels much better after his rant to her. "We're friends. You can tell me what's on your mind."
"We're not friends."
There it is again. Frustrated, Ash bites his tongue. It's taking a lot of self control in him to not argue with her. He takes a few deep breaths to calm down before stating, "I guess I'll be heading home now." She won't talk. She wants nothing to do with him, which she's making very apparent today. Misty must be spacing out because she's trying to think of the best way to cut him off. Whatever. He'll make it easy for her and do it himself.
Ash is still confused about Misty's reason for asking him to come to Cerulean City. They were out all day, so there was no chance for sex. As much as he enjoys the sex, he prefers spending time with her. Thus, he doesn't mind that they were having fun, though he has noticed her mind seems to be wandering. Could she be having an off week again in the gym? Or does she really hate the idea of being friends with him?
Nevertheless, it's dark now, and according to Misty, her sisters are still in her home. That means there won't be any sex tonight. Can Ash hope that Misty just misses him as much as he misses her? That she wants to just be in his presence like he does with her? She's the one that keeps bringing up wanting no commitment with him, yet over time, she's been letting her guard down more and more. Ash was hopeful that she would be his friend again, though today has shown otherwise.
Misty doesn't respond. She has that same conflicted and absent look on her face. Should he ask? Should he pry more? Will she get mad? Most of the time, Ash has no idea what she's thinking because she can either be nice or push him away. It's like she's confused about what she wants from him. Regardless of how frustrating she is, Ash still doesn't want to lose her for good.
"Misty?" Ash worriedly waves a hand in front of her face, getting her attention again. "Are you okay?"
The redhead lets out a loud groan. She keeps mulling over Ash's words. He wants to be a dad some day, but not right now. Well, too late, Ash Ketchum. Mew. This whole situation sucks! "We're not friends. Stop asking."
Shaking his head, Ash tells her, "I know! You've made it very clear, but I wanna be friends!" Okay. There it is. He's upset and couldn't contain himself any longer. Why does she keep doing this to him? How is it only her who ever infuriates him this much?
Narrowing her eyes at him, Misty fires back, "Too bad! I don't wanna be your friend!"
"Because I screwed up once?"
"Once?" Scoffs the woman. "Ten years, Ash. Ten fucking years!"
"Are you really going to hold that grudge against me? I told you I'd change!" He's learned his lesson.
"I'm not gonna have you crush my hopes again. I only told you to come today so you understand that we're through. My sisters are back. You live with your mom. We have nowhere private, so don't bother keeping me in your contacts anymore. I already deleted you."
Ouch. Nonetheless, his anger blinds his pain. "Fine! I'll delete you too! This is what you want, right?" He pulls out his pokenav. Misty watches anxiously. Despite her words, she really doesn't want to see him delete her from his life. Why is her head and heart playing with her like this? To her relief, he lets out a long breath and pockets his pokenav. "I'll do it later."
Why didn't he do it now? His finger was hovering over her contact. Ash knows he doesn't want Misty out of his life. Since when did he ever quit this easily? No matter how much she irritates him, she is worth fighting for. All of his friends are. He just wishes she'd see his efforts and give him one more shot. Ash isn't that naive child anymore. He's an adult who sees more than just Pokemon and Pokemon battles.
"Just do it now." taunts the redhead, making Ash groan.
Why won't she just swallow her pride for once? He meets her angry blue orbs. "Do you really mean it?"
Seeing the pain behind his fury, Misty's pride lowers. She looks away to mumble, "Maybe…"
The two sit in silence before Ash finally breaks it, "I was saying I should probably go home. You still have the gym in the morning, and your sisters are at your place." At least he can leave knowing she really doesn't want him completely out of her life anymore. Their relationship might be put on pause for now, though he's hopeful it'll get better in the future.
She's disappointed that the time with him is ending. Misty forgot how much fun it is to just hang out with Ash, despite how annoying he is too. Due to her wanting no commitment from anyone, she was protecting her heart by keeping him away. Now that she's pregnant with his child, the two have a commitment. Uh. Well, they will once he knows about the baby too. Although she wasn't planning to hang out with Ash today, she hasn't mustered up the courage to break the news to him. How can she? Should she?
Ash is supposed to travel and compete in the World Coronation tournament in a few months. Misty doesn't want this to stop him. Or does she? What if he doesn't want to be involved? Okay. This is Ash Ketchum she's thinking about. He has a kind heart, and his mother won't let him be a deadbeat. Nevertheless, what if Ash is nonexistent like his father was? That does fall into the 'no-commitment' that Misty wanted. Can she blame the hormones on actually wanting commitment from this kind man?
"Misty." Ash's soft voice breaks her from her daze again. There she goes again. He's even more concerned now, so out of habit, Ash places a hand on her forehead. "Are you okay?"
Blushing, Misty quickly backs away from the hand. "Yeah. I'm fine."
Still skeptical, Ash studies her demeanor. Something is definitely up with Misty. "What's wrong?" While Misty usually displays a wide range of emotions around Ash, today has been way too sporadic for Ash to feel like it's normal.
"Nothing, Ash." Mew! Why can't she bring it in her to tell him? She doesn't want to tie him down, but at the same time, she does. "I mean. Shit." Misty buries her face in her hands, causing Ash to hug her closely. His constant care, along with her own turmoils, is causing her to break any sort of resolve she has.
Quietly shushing the distraught woman, Ash whispers, "You don't need to say anything to me, Mist. Just know I'm here." He hates seeing her like this. What is going on? Misty is definitely not okay, and Ash just wants to take all of her worries away. He still considers her a friend, regardless of her not thinking the same of him. Regardless of how much they argue and disagree, he still cares about her deeply.
"No, I do." comes the muffled sob. This makes Ash hug her tighter.
"It's fine."
"It's not, Ash." She's not even upset that he used his nickname for her. All she wants is to remain in these strong warm arms. It's different than when she's in his arms during sex. This is more comforting. More like the Ash she fell in love with. "I'm so sorry."
"You have nothing to apologize for!" Insists the man because he's already forgiven her for her attitude earlier. He's very confused on the situation.
Shaking her head again, she replies, "I do."
Burying his face in her hair, Ash is hit with the light scent of chlorine. Water always reminds him of her. "Whatever it is, I promise I'm not upset, Misty." She hasn't done anything to him where she should break down like this.
After a few more silent minutes, Misty eventually pulls away to quickly wipe at her eyes. She'll keep blaming the hormones for making her lose her composure. Sniffling a bit, she tells him, "You need to travel this fall."
Where is this coming from? Slowly nodding, Ash curiously watches her with concern. "Um. Yeah, I will?" That's the plan. Always has been, and always will be.
"Promise me that you'll compete in a tournament this fall." Now, her piercing blue eyes are on his very confused brown ones.
Nervously gulping, Ash continues with his slow nods. One moment, she's sobbing in his arms. The next, she's telling him to compete in the fall. Competing is a given. Everyone knows he's going back to the battling scene. As much as Ash hates to admit it, Serena was right. He can't do commitment. He just wants to move and travel. That's just who he is, though a strong part of him finds that he could spend the rest of his life laying beside Misty.
"You need to be the Monarch, Ash." Misty sternly says.
"That's the goal?"
"Promise me, Ash."
"Uh, I promise?"
"Say it like you mean it!"
"Okay!" Ash sticks out a pinky towards her. "I pinky promise you that I'll compete this fall!"
Misty connects her small pinky with his larger tan one. "And that you won't stop until you're the Monarch!"
"And I promise I won't stop until I'm the Monarch." He gazes back at her with the same intensity. Maybe Misty just wanted to do her part in motivating him? So she does see him as a friend again? Ash can remain hopeful that their encounters aren't done here, right? That he can still visit her and hang out like he did today?
"Good." Misty releases his pinky. Taking in a deep breath, she finally feels confident enough to tell him. It's now or never. Knowing that he won't drop his dreams to commit to her, who doesn't want any commitment from him right now, alleviates her main concerns. "I'm pregnant."
Got a new job. Life's getting busy. Sorry :(