Yo, guys! Hope you're all safe and sound in your homes!

Ooh, an early update in the ecstasy of 400+ reviews-

-Gossssh! FREAKIN' 404 REVIEWS, HUH?! Damn, it seriously feels a huge achievement for me! I reaaaaaally didn't have any expectation with this story when I first started it! It's all thanks to you guys! You're all the best! And to express my gratitude, I'm releasing an early chapter! ´･ᴗ･`

'Guest: NO! How could you leave us here in a pool of tears!? My heart is sobbing rn. #foolAsh'

The guest above is the 400th reviewer of everyone's favourite; The Double, The Trouble! Congrats! *bursting of party poppers* Yay! Congrats to everyone else, too! For being a part of this celebration! (As if I've won an award or sm... but, whatever. ͡° ͜ʖ ͡ –)

Ah, I can understand all of your frustration! I mean, obviously, Ash should just go and die! You all are seriously gonna hate me more if you read this chapter! *slaps my forehead* But, hehe, I'm a sadist, so...! XD

Anyway, you guys can continue reading! Go ahead!

Chapter 34

Jack

"Piplup!"

I heard faint noises of Piplup chirping as I closed my eyes shut, again. I pulled him closer, only to feel bubble beam on my face.

My eyes shot up with surprise as I sprang up and sat up straight. I wasn't angry at Piplup because I had given him the authority to do so. I rubbed my eyes, drowsily. Slightly grimacing to the sun rays, entering the room, I got up and stretched my body.

I looked at the mobile which Piplup was holding in his flippers. It was still blurred for me, so I shook my head and rubbed my eyes, again. I squinted my eyes and muttered, "It's...ten? Woah! Ten?!"

I jumped down from the bed, stumbling a bit. I rushed to the bathroom, grabbing my clothes and towel, in the process. I shut the door behind me.

I quickly brushed my teeth and washed my face. After that, I got rid of my clothes and took a shower. It took me almost half an hour to get out of the shower.

I pulled a normal black and red striped, sleeveless drawstring top, three-fourth blue jeans with my normal boots. I left my hair open, to let it dry.

I exited the bathroom and strapped the watch on my wrist. I buckled the belt around my waist, not putting the gun holder on it.

"Pip?"

"Yes, I'm ready!" I nodded as I grabbed him and ran out of the room, closing the door behind me. I climbed down the stairs and went into the dining hall.

None of them had started eating, yet...it looked like they had come just now. I took a seat between May and Gary. I wished them a 'good morning' and started eating.

This time, too, Ash was sitting exactly opposite of me. I avoided every chance of meeting my eyes with him. How could I possibly talk to him or look at him in the eyes...after witnessing yesterday's events!

Serena was acting pretty normal, as if nothing had happened! I mean, she didn't look even a bit flustered about it...

Maybe...it was pretty normal for them? Yeah, it's possible. After all, they are engaged! But...does that mean...the kiss that day really didn't mean anything to him? It wasn't...his first kiss, either...

Ugh.

Darn it!

I could feel my heart sinking, every moment I thought about those two...kissing, hugging, holding hands and even making out! I just couldn't bring myself to actually be carefree about it!

I didn't even know when I was done with my food. I got up and walked away. I'll just go back to my room...I need some time to think about it.

Absentmindedly, I had bumped into someone.

"Are you alright?"

As soon as I heard that voice, my eyes widened and I jumped away from him, maintaining some distance between us. I chuckled, nervously, "Y-yeah! I'm completely fine!"

Ash stared at me, strangely. "You sure?"

I nodded, quickly, "Yes, yes! No need to worry!"

He stepped forward, "About yesterday-"

I understood that he would try to explain me about yesterday but I quickly, moved back. I shook my hands, continuously, "Ah, shit! I forgot that I had something important to do!" I excused, "See you!" I really don't want to hear anything he says.

I turned my head around to steal a glance at him. He looked like he was guilty but then, he put his hands in his pockets and stared at the ground.

I dashed up the stairs and bursted into my room. I went sat down on the couch.

I whispered, "I really feel bad for avoiding him, but..." I pulled my knees to my chest and laid my head on it. "What am I supposed to do?!"

I clutched my hair, in frustration. "Urgh! Just one simple mistake and...this is what happens!" I got up from my place and rushed to the bathroom. I splashed some water on my face and stared at myself in the mirror.

I slapped my cheeks, four to five times and then, shook my head. I shut my eyes, to get rid of all those thoughts from my mind. After few seconds, I opened my eyes and took a deep breath.

Dawn, it's okay. Concentrate on today's mission and nothing else! Also, you don't have to avoid Ash...it's not his fault that you barged into his room! You should've know before entering... Anyways, forget about it. Your main focus should be, to prevent the Team Cosmic from stealing the statue. That's it!

"Piplup!"

"I know, I'm late! I also know that it's my fault for taking long to dress up!" I admitted, running to the staircase. "Shit! I'm such a slowpoke!"

"Pip," the blue penguin agreed.

I was holding my gown and running to the main hall, where the party was being held. You see, I took a lot of time than I thought it would, to wear the dress. Now, we were fifteen minutes late to the party.

When we reached there, I could feel everyone's eyes on me. After all, I was climbing down the stairs in a beautiful gown and all the guests were gathered down. It seemed like I had a royal entry! I feel proud, at the same time, I don't! Damn, it's embarrassing!

I was dressed in a light blue strapless floor length gown, with some whites ruffled shades on the bottom of it. It had thin white colored belt strapped below my bust. A white choker with sapphire embedded in it was hooked around my neck and some silver round earrings. My feet were adored with some blue strappy heels. I had my hair styled in a loose side ponytail with some of my bangs kept loose on either side. I was wearing a blue sequin feather masquerade mask with some white color in it.

I held Piplup in my arms and whispered, "Looks like we're the center of attention, now." Good thing my face was covered with a mask! Gosh!

He nodded, "Pip!"

I could see everyone staring at me, including my friends and Ash's family, too. I saw Serena had her arm wrapped around Ash's. My eyes flickered at them before turning away my gaze. I could feel a lot of people staring at me.

I couldn't help but start to feel anxious. Just then, I missed a step and stumbled. "Woah!" I yelped.

Piplup shrieked, "Pip!" He jumped from my arms and landed on the ground.

From the corner of my eyes, I could see Ash step towards me but I felt myself being held in someone else's arms. He held my arm and my waist, preventing me from falling on the floor.

"Are you alright, Miss?"

I heard a surprisingly, calm and sophisticated masculine voice. I slowly raised my head, "Um, I think I'm fine." I pulled myself up and stood straight, still holding onto that guy's hand.

I looked up and saw his appearance. He had white hair, which were as spiky as Ash but were a bit shorter in length. He was very fairly skinned and his eyes were of red colour, which were kind of mesmerizing and looked awfully familiar. I couldn't see his complete face, though because it was covered with a dark green tuxedo masquerade mask. He was dressed in a green tuxedo, but he didn't wear any tie instead, he left his collar open.

"You sure?"

I snapped out of gazing at him and said, "Oh, yeah. No need to worry!"

He smiled, "That's good to know."

I smiled back at him, awkwardly. Just then, I saw Leaf and all waving at me. I furrowed my eyebrows, confused when I saw Ash glaring at the guy in front of me. I said, "Um, excuse me. You see, my friends are calling me."

He nodded as he let go of my hand, "Oh, it's alright. We'll meet, again, anyway, right?'

"Sure!" I waved at him and walked to the others, grabbing Piplup in my arms. I greeted, "Hey, guys!" Piplup jumped off from my arms and went to Pikachu, who was going to meet up with the other Pokémon.

"That was one heck of an entry, Dawn!" Gary laughed. He was dressed in dark brown tuxedo and even he wasn't wearing a tie. He had a brown tuxedo masquerade mask on his face.

Leaf wrapped an arm around my shoulder, "Looks like you literally fell for him!" She was wearing a thin strapped yellow floor length gown with some ruffles below her bust. She was wearing a black filigree masquerade mask with large butterfly. Her was tied in a stylish bun with her bangs curled on the front. She had put on some yellow wedges.

"Haha, very lame," I shrugged. All the others laughed, except for Ash. I pouted, "You all are so mean! And... besides, he was just helping me." I twirled some of my strands around my finger. Damn, I can't believe I made a fool out of myself! He must be thinking of me as some sort of weirdo! Gossssh!

"Aww, look! She's blushing!" May pointed at my cheeks. She was dressed in haltered neckline, pink floor length gown, which stuck to her body, showing off her well-developed bust and curves. She wasn't wearing her usual bandana instead she let her hair wide open. She had black filigree masquerade mask on her eyes. She wore the pencil heels of the same shade of pink as her dress.

"Hey! I'm not blushing!" I denied. That's embarassment!

Drew laughed, "Alright, we understand." He was wearing a maroon buttoned up shirt and on top of that he wore a white vest and black formal pants, which were suiting him, perfectly. He had some white shoes in his feet.

I cried, "You're the only one who understands me!" I went to him and was about to hug him, but stopped myself thinking that it was a formal party.

He patted my head, "Ah, it's okay."

I sobbed, with anime styles tears falling down, "You're the best brother!" We turned our heads in the direction of the stage when we heard the mic switch on.

Ash's father spoke, "Hello, ladies and gentlemen! I, Ace Ketchum, hereby, welcome you all for attending this grand function organized on the occasion of my eldest son's twenty-second birthday."

Everyone began clapping at his speech and it increased even more when Mrs. Ketchum, Aiden, Serena and Ash climbed up the stage. Those two were still walking hand-in-hand...

Mr. Ketchum held out his hand for his wife, helping her climb up. When she was standing next to him, she wrapped her arms around him. She announced, "I'm glad that you all were able to make it to this grand event. Exactly one year from now, our son, Ash Ketchum will be getting married to Serena Yvonne! Please, give them a huge round of applause!"

...What?!

I didn't know that!

Ah, forget it. I don't care.

They are engaged, anyway. At some point, they are going to end up getting married.

I joined everyone in applauding for those two. I couldn't help but feel upset...that he would be married to Serena, next year.

Dawn! Didn't you say that you were over him?! Then, why are you over reacting at everything?!

I shook my head, dismissing the topic.

Ash came up to mic and said, "Thank you for coming." He was wearing a dark blue velvet tuxedo. Though, he was wearing a tie but it was tied very loosely.

Ah, he looks.. smokin' hot. Engaged or not, I still have the right to judge and appreciate one's looks.

He handed the mic back to his father and stepped away. Tsk, it was so Ash-like!

I looked at Serena, noticing her attire. She had put on a silver shiny long ball gown with many glittery butterflies on it. Her hair was tied in a high bun, which made her look cute. She was wearing a silver masquerade mask with a silver feather above her left eye. She had a pair of silver high heels strapped in her feet.

She's too beautiful... Compared to me, she definitely looks like a princess.

I whispered to Gary, "Aren't they gonna cut the cake?"

He replied, "Nah, they just keep a large four floor cake on the buffet table, which will be cut into several pieces. This is a formal party , Dawn."

"Oh..okay!" I nodded as I turned my attention back to the stage.

Mr. Ketchum smiled, "You all can enjoy, now!"

Everyone started laughing and talking, erasing the silence from the room. I saw all of them climb down from the stage. Ash and Serena walked up to us. Ash started talking to Gary and Drew.

Serena chatted with the rest of us. From the corner of my eyes, I saw Aiden walking with his little friends. Just then, I saw that white-haired guy, talking with someone else. I feel too pressured to be near Ash... and Serena.

"Hey! I'll be back in just a second!" I excused myself as I walked away. I could see confused expressions on their faces. I muttered to myself, "What? You all got your girlfriends and boyfriends, when I'm so single. I need to make a friend to pass the night, humph."

I tapped on that guy's shoulder with a wide smile on my face. He looked at me and smiled back as he excused himself from the guy he was talking with. He turned to me, "Well, hello, again!"

I nodded, "Yeah!"

The red-eyed laughed, "I don't think we have introduced each other, have we?" I shook my head. "My name's Jack."

I grinned, "Dawn! Dawn is my name!"

"Wow, a very bright name!" I laughed at his joke. I was surprised when he took my arm and pressed a light kiss on the back of my palm. Damn, that's the first time someone kissed on my hand! Just like those... prince kissing the princess?

I couldn't help the flustered look on my face. Ah, Dawn! Don't blush! What if he misunderstands or something?! I shook my head, getting rid of the red tint.

When he let go of my hand, I said, "You know, you look kinda familiar to me!"

"Ah, is it?" He flashed a toothy smile. "I don't know why, but it seems like you were made for me."

"I'm sorry?" I furrowed my eyebrows, confused. Oh, so he's the cheesy type, huh? He seems like a flirt but... he's nice to me. I rolled my eyes, mentally.

"Uh, it's nothing!" He waved off. Just then, we heard the sound of slow dance music play the speakers. I looked around to see that it was just Ash dancing with his fiancée on the floor.

Then, slowly, other people also started dancing, including May and Drew, and Lead and Gary. I couldn't help but linger my gaze at the Ash and his dancing partner.

I was snapped out of my daze when I heard Jack ask, "Would you like to have a dance with me, Dawn?"

He bowed as he took my hand and kissed it, again. Once again, I blushed at his polite gesture. I nodded, "Sure." If everyone's enjoying, then I should too, right? After all, I really need to keep my mind off the main couple.

The white-haired led me to the floor. He placed his one hand on my waist and I kept my left hand at his shoulder. My right hand was tightly held by Jack's. We started moving our feet, rhythmically.

He complimented, "Well, you're pretty good!"

"Hey! You're doing perfectly, too!" I giggled. I could feel someone's eyes on me and when I looked around, it was Ash! He was glaring at us, so hardly. If looks could really kill someone, then, I'd be dead by now!

I scrunched my eyebrows, confused. Why was he glaring at us? I mean, he should concentrate on his dance rather than mine!

Oh, I know! He must be thinking how can a girl, me, can dance so bad! Afterall, everyone aren't as perfect as him! Humph! I think I'm dancing well, though I might not have been taught about it. Even Jack is helping me and going at my pace.

"Um, what's wrong?"

Turning my head to him, I smiled, "No, no! It's nothing!"

He nodded, "Alright, then."

We continued our dancing until, the music had stopped. I laughed, as I lightly punched the white-haired guy's arm, "You're so cool, Jack! Your feet moved so perfectly! I'm sorry for stepping your feet twice!" I scratched my cheek, sheepishly. "Anyway, you're the coolest person!"

He smiled, in return as he said, "And you're very beautiful."

I tilted my head to the side, confused, "Huh?" Where did that come from?

"You look very beautiful, Dawn," he said, softly. "I just wanted to say that for a long time, now."

I blushed, as I scratched my cheek, "Uh... thanks!" That's the first time I've been complimented today even after spending two hours for getting ready... Suddenly, a thought occurred in my mind and I voiced it, "Hey! How about we take a pic? As a memorial?" I looked at him, expectantly with my face, very close to his. I'd like to be friends with him! He's the one keeping me company in this boring and unfamiliar place.

He turned his head the other way, blushing. "Alright, if you insist," he said, still flustered.

I nodded, excitedly, "Yay!" I took out my mobile from the pocket of my gown. I searched for someone and then, I went to a lady, who was of maybe my mom's age. I asked, sweetly, "Hey, would you take a picture of us? Pretty please?"

She nodded as she smiled, "Sure."

I went to Jack and stood next to him. I grinned at the camera, showing victory sign with both of my hands. Jack was quite taller than me, maybe three inches, just like Ash. I looked up at him and saw that he was smiling, softly.

I signalled her and she nodded as she clicked a pic. Then, I grabbed Jack's arm and pulled him down, so that he was of my height. I laughed, along with Jack, who was bit stunned from my actions. A flash blinded us and we knew that she had clicked a photograph. Ah, did I just act way too familiar with him? ...Whatever. I should control myself a little more! Gah!

She handed me the mobile as she giggled. While walking away, she said, "Aw, young love."

We both blushed in embarrassment bit couldn't deny since she wasn't with us, anymore. I opened the gallery and clicked the pictures which we took. I saw it and smiled in satisfaction, "It's perfect."

He peered down my shoulder to see the image and he smiled, "Yeah."

"Do you want me to send it to you?" He nodded and then, we exchanged our numbers. I sent him the images and he thanked me, in return.

Just then, Aiden walked up to me, "Hey, Dawn! Come dance with me!"

I knitted my eyebrows, confused, "Why all of a sudden?"

He just shook his head, stubbornly as he grabbed my arm and started pulling me. He ordered, "You just come and dance with me! The other kids are teasing me that I can't dance with a girl! Since, you're a girl, you should dance with me!"

Jack stared at him, confused. I turned to him, "Sorry, Jack. I gotta go! This guy won't leave me alone, until and unless I fulfil his wish! Sorry!"

He waved off, "No, no, it's okay! We'll meet again, anyway."

I grinned, "Yeah!" I felt myself being pulled away by Aiden. I said, "Woah! I can walk, Aiden! If you pull me like this, I'm gonna fall flat on my face!"

The younger boy brought me to the dancing floor. Since, he was so short, he couldn't hold my waist. So, I decided to dance while holding both of his hands. He smiled, "Dawn, you're a pretty good dancer!"

I laughed, "You're not so bad, yourself!" I really shouldn't step on his feet.

I could feel everyone staring at us but I didn't mind. I was having lots of fun? But, I didn't have to be so much into the fun that I forget about our mission! When we were done with the dance, we moved into the corner.

I met up with the rest of our gang. I waved, "Hey, people!"

Gary looked at me and said, "Don't dance too much, you'll get distracted from your goal."

"I know!" I replied in an obvious tone.

Leaf laughed, "Seriously, Dawn? You were dancing with a kid?!"

"Hey! Don't be like that! He was so cute that I couldn't resist his request!"

May came and nudged me in the elbow as she teased, "You were dancing with the same guy who helped you, right?"

I nodded, "Yup! He is really cool!"

"Has the Cinderella found her prince?" Leaf teased as she narrowed her eyes, suggestively.

I was about to reply but was interrupted by Ash grabbing my arm and pulling me away from them. I yelped, "Whoa! Ash!"

He didn't say anything but just kept on dragging me.

I scrunched my eyebrows, confused, "What is it? Why-"

"Shh, keep quiet!" He hissed as he took me to the dance floor and stood across me. I looked at him, still not getting what his motive was.

Just then, he took my hand and pressed a kiss on the back of my palm, "Would you mind having a dance with me?"

I blushed and at the same time, I felt pissed as the events from yesterday came flooding to my mind. What the heck is wrong with him?!

I really wanted to but I couldn't possibly dance with an already engaged guy! Just when I was about to refuse, he didn't even wait for the reply. He pulled me towards him, placing a hand on my waist. I gasped when he did that.

He started dancing with me, I couldn't help but move my feet. If I didn't then, I'd probably fall down. I whispered, "Ash! What are you doing?!"

The raven-haired replied, "Dancing."

I looked around to see thar thar everyone were staring at us, even his mom and dad! Serena just stood, watching us. "You're not supposed to be dancing with me!" I hissed, nervously.

"You shouldn't be the one telling me who I am supposed to dance with," he responded.

I said, quickly, "But, Serena is your fiancée! You are already engaged to her! Everyone's staring at us, too! What might they be thinking about us!"

He blurted, "Let them think, I don't care. Shut up and continue dancing."

If I wasn't in this state of anxiousness, then, I'd compliment myself for being in complete sync with him! I sighed, "Ash, don't do this." I frowned, staring into his eyes. "And please, people will start talking about me!"

He said, "After seeing you dance with that white-haired bastard, I felt this sudden urge to dance with you."

"What do you mean? It's my wish to dance with whoever I like! Weren't you busy too? Dancing with Serena," I snapped. "Also, don't call him a bastard. His name is Jack. He's my newly made friend!" I scolded.

He spoke through his gritted teeth, "How many male friends do you intend on making?"

I narrowed me eyes, "Hey! Don't be such a gender-biased guy!"

"You really get on my nerves because of this reason," he hissed.

I furrowed my eyebrows and glared at him, grumbling, "You're such a jerk." I just want him to leave me alone... because my heart seemed like it would explode and I'd wish for more of him.

We continued to dance, moving our steps according to the beat. Though, I won't admit it, but I had kinda hoped that I could dance with Ash... Yes, you can call me an idiot for this. But, is it bad to wish for things like these with your crush? Even if he's taken?

Deep inside my heart, I was so happy that I couldn't...just describe it in words. I do know that Ash has a fiancée and will be married to Serena, soon but...it won't change the fact that I love him. No matter how hard I tried to push him aside, he kept gaining my attention.

The more I repelled him, the more he attracted me.

Well, you can think of me of as one of those bitches who aim, shamelessly for the male lead despite having his fated female lead.

I took a glance at him and noticed a faint smile. I really do love him, huh? I looked at my feet and couldn't help but the idiotic smile creeping on my lips.

I didn't care about anything...as long as we still get to have normal conversations...

...I'm fine with anything...

Ash and I had danced to our hearts content. When we made our way back to the gang, they didn't question us about anything. Whenever, I glanced at Serena, she would give a distant look to me, as if she's upset with something. I even asked her, but she just waved off, smiling and saying that she was alright.

But I knew that she was upset over the fact that Ash had danced with me in front of the whole crowd.

To be honest, I would get jealous, too if my boyfriend were to do something like that.

Damn, I acted too selfish, didn't I? Urgh!

After that, we had our dinner at buffet table, eating food to erase our hunger. Now that my stomach was full, I decided to take a stroll in the hallway.

I didn't bump into Jack, anywhere. Nor did I see Piplup and Pikachu. They must be tossing food in their bellies! Haha!

Just then, I heard someone having a conversation...which seemed like some sort of argument.

I tried to ignore it and walk further, but...curiosity just got the better of me.

I slowly, made my way to that room, where the voices were coming from. The door was slightly open, so I was able to hear their voices.

"Ash! You're not gonna talk to her, anymore!" I heard a feminine voice, which sounded like Serena's. Who was that 'her' she was talking about?

...Could it be me?

"You don't have to tell me. You're neither my mother nor my teacher to tell me what I should and shouldn't do." That was definitely Ash.

Why were they arguing at a time like this?

I leaned on the wall, next to the door, listening to their conversation. I heard Serena yell, "Ash! Be serious! We're engaged, for arceus' sake!"

"Oh, please. We both are engaged just because of some stupid promise! Why would I want to marry someone I don't even love!" Ash growled.

"I know that you don't love me...but, I do! You don't understand my feelings...! You're so mean, Ash!" She looked as if she was about to cry.

Ash shouldn't treat her, that way...I mean, she is a girl, after all.

The raven-haired blurted, "I am not any psychic or something to understand your feelings."

She sobbed, "Why is she better than me? You met with her, all of a sudden, and you're head over heels for her!"

Ah, so that 'she' wasn't me... Wait! My eyes widened as I clutched my chest.

What? Ash was in love with someone else? Urgh, who's that, now? Don't tell me I have another rival!

He responded, plainly, "It's not necessary to explain it to you, is it?"

"I hate you, so much, Ash!" She cried as she ran to the door. I hid myself from her and watched her run away, with tears in her eyes.

I felt sympathy for her. Poor her, it must be very hard to deal with that guy...

Though, I didn't wanted to talk to Ash about it but something inside of me urged me to go and talk to him. I slowly pushed the door open and entered. I called out, "Uh...Ash?'

"What are you doing here, now?" He sounded so irritated!

His back was facing me, so I couldn't see his expressions. I casually, said, "You shouldn't have made her cry like that."

"Oh, so you were listening to our conversation? Don't you know that eavesdropping is an ill manner? Also, a crime?" I could hear the anger in his tone.

I responded, gulping, "I was just walking by. I heard some yelling, so I decided to check out. Then, I heard you two arguing... Besides, it's not eavesdropping... it's listening onto people's conversation, by mistake."

"Okay. So, what do you want to say?" He looked too pissed off!

I wasn't intimidated by his tone, since I had gotten too used to it! I took a deep breath, saying, "Ash, why did you say her that you don't love her? She is a girl, and every girl has a sensitive heart."

"When I don't feel anything for her, then, why should I lie?" He had his as in his pocket. "It'll just lead her on."

I whispered, softly, "If you don't love her, then...why are you getting married?"

Just then, he turned around, abruptly as he pushed me on a nearby wall. I winced a bit at the impact. He had his arms placed on the wall on either side of my head. He hissed, "Will you stop meddling in others' problems? It's none of your concern!"

His face was so close to me, though I was a tad bit frightened of his bloodshot eyes but I didn't hesitate. "I know, I don't have any right to say you these all things but, as a friend I'm concerned about you!"

Ash had his eyes half-lidded as he scoffed, "Could it be that you want to break off my engagement because you're jealous?"

I felt the rage and fury rush through my veins.

"What the hell?!" I half-yelled as I frowned. "What do you mean by that?! I'd never do that! Even if the Arceus says me to do so! I'd never do something as cheap as that!"

I looked straight into his eyes, with a furious look. He asked, "Then, would you tell me why I should break off my engagement with Serena?"

"Heck, I never said that you should break off or something! I just said that if you don't like her, then, why are you getting married, in the first place!" I furrowed my eyebrows, even further.

"I have no reason to tell you, do I?"

"Urgh! Fine, don't tell me!" I shouted.

He said, pretty scornfully, "Besides, you'd rather go to that Jack than talk with me, right?"

I looked at him with mixed expressions of confusion and frustration. "What the...? What does he have to do anything, here?!"

"Oh, really? Was it me who was clicking photographs with him, dancing with him, cheering drinks with him?" He asked, bitterly.

I said, trying to reason, "He was a new friend! So, I was just spending some time with him! Ash, please, don't drag him in this shit."

"Mmm... You're siding him a bit too much, don't you think?" He raised an eyebrow with an angry expression.

I clutched my eyes shut and opened them, in irritation, "Urgh! I don't even have the energy to give you all the answers. Besides, it's my time to to say this; it's none of your concern, Mr. Ash Ketchum."

He banged his fist on the wall, beside me. It made a huge 'bam' sound, and I gasped, startled. He brought his face so close to me and said through his gritted teeth, "You..." He sighed, in irritation as he moved back, releasing me from his trap.

"Don't talk to me, ever again," he said, sternly. He had turned his back towards me and wasn't able to see the hateful expression on my face.

I shrugged as I turned around and walked to the door. I said, "It's fine by me. I'm not dying to talk to you."

He thinks it's fine to hurt other feelings? Only he has the right to be angry?! I just don't get him!

I was beyond angry, now as I stomped out of that room. I saw Gary standing, outside the door. I knew that he had heard our conversation, no, argument. I didn't even bother to look at him.

Still not calm, I exited the main exit. Passing through the porch, I went and sat down on the fountain, in front of the main entrance. I placed my hands on the base and looked up in that sky, admiring the full moon.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself. Somehow, after seeing the moon, I could feel my nerves calm down.

He got angry in a split second, just because I told him to mind his business! Then, what about the times when he told me to buzz off? Shouldn't I have also reacted agressively like him?! But, like an idiot, I kept trying to ignore the rudeness and look for his goodness!

Damn it!

I frowned, harder as I crossed my arms. Whenever Ash is on my mind, I can never stay calm, no matter what I look at. He always made me end up being in a foul mood.

Ha, wasn't he being to conceited?! Just because of a bastard like him, he thinks I'd stoop too low and get his marriage annuled? Damn, I can't belive his level of cockiness!

Just go to hell and get married to whomever you want!

I don't even know why I was going so crazy about you?! To think that I even cried for you!

I took a deep breath, completely frustrated. I'm definitely going to find a man way greater than you! More handsome, hotter, cooler and the kindest person!

After a few seconds of meditation to get rid of my anger, I finally calmed down. It was alright for me to be here, because everyone would come out anyway, to see the fireworks.

Then, my mind drifted to the statue. Team Cosmic still hadn't come to steal away the statue of Arceus...I wonder what plan they have in mind. I hope we'll be able to safe it this time, too...

If I failed in my love life, I should atleast succeed in my work.

I dangled my feet in the air, calming myself down. Somehow, my mind went back to the argument I had with Ash, few minutes ago, once again.

I sighed, "Man, why does something like that have to happen with me?" I decided, "Actually, it was entirely his fault!"

"Whose fault?"

I turned my head to see Jack coming to me with two glasses of orange juice in his hands. I smiled at him. Seeing him, I felt a little bit relieved and could feel my mood lighten up.

"Jack! What're you doing, here? I mean, the party is inside, right?" I asked.

He came and stood, in front of me. He handed me one glass and I accepted it. He replied, "But, I couldn't see you, so I knew that you might be out. And, looks like my guess was correct!"

I laughed, "Looks like we both will be good friends !" I gulped down half of the juice.

"Yeah, yeah. Anyway, what were you babbling about?" He questioned.

I took a sip from my glass as I sighed, "You see, I just had an argument with one of my friends. So, my mood went a bit down."

Jack smiled as he patted my hair. He took the glass from my hand and kept our glasses on the place, beside me. I looked at him, confused, "Jack?"

He took my hands and pulled me closer to him, my head laying on his chest. He wrapped his arms around me and embraced me, tightly. He said, softly, "Don't worry."

I was a bit taken aback by that sudden gesture. I didn't hug him, back because it was a bit too early for me to embrace him.

Just then, when I was about to pull back, I started to feel a bit dizzy and unconsciously, I held onto his back, tightly. I wasn't able to hear what Jack was saying. I felt my eyes drooping.

Then, I started to black out.

The next thing I knew, I was loosing my consciousness.

*drumrolls* How you like that, guys?! I'm sure maaaaaany of you are disappointed with Ash, right now. Also, the fact that he didn't try to explain about the kiss to Dawn. Ah, you all must be seriously mad at me. But, don't worry, the next chapter will be better I guess!

Oh, and do you guys like Jack? (I own Jack, the OC, created by me! I hope you guys liked him! Lol, I bet you guys won't after the last scene! Hehe!)

Also, BTS has released their new English single "Butter" and gosh, it's awesome! You guys should definitely check it out! I literally fell for that song! And damn, being an army is amazing! Borahae!

So, according to you guys, what do you think is going to happen with Dawn? And who is Jack? Is he a part of Team cosmic or just some stalker? What do you guys think about Ash and Dawn's argument?

Anyway, stay tuned to find out what happens next!

See ya!