I do not own Pokémon in any type of way. Game freak, Nintendo, T.V Tokyo and any other contributors to Pokémon do.
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2 days after Clemont's birthday
It was a dewy day in Kalos. Soft breeze swayed the trees as Fletchings circled the sky. Flower petals could be seen being blown off the cherry blossom trees as cool air hit the streets. Maidens could be seen cleaning up the various apartments they stayed in, cleaning windows and balusters as the morning sun cast shadows from buildings or pergolas, high on top. Locals took a moment, admiring the land, sipping tea while talking to their house Pokémon and looking down on the busy streets of Lumiose city. Serena was part of this image, quietly sipping some tea with her breakfast, Delphox keeping her company as her other Pokémon slept in. She was staring off into the city through opened, double doors. Delicate harp music could be heard floating through her apartment. It was located in a decent part of Lumiose city, more historical but had modern day upgrades. It was near Clemont's penthouse and close to the gym. If she stood in a certain spot, she could see Prism Tower clearly. Her apartment was blessed to be in a windy area, always making her curtains billow soothingly when her windows were open.
Her apartment was furnished with different styles of fixtures, things she found she liked and somehow had a character. She loved her place dearly and truly looked forward to spending some time at the old place. Curled up reading near her double doors, looking out at the street buildings. Her own slice of bliss in a moment.
Serena listened to the Fletchings chirping happily outside, observing them flying on and off on the building opposite the street. She thought about Ash's Talonflame, how it was such a skilled Pokémon. It led to her quiet, inner thoughts thinking about him. She remembered telling the girls about why she stopped speaking to him but she felt like she wasn't very forthcoming about how she got over it.
9 years is a long time. She was over the whole Ash thing but what kept her on edge with Ash was Ash himself. They never saw eye to eye after that. She understood it was just something they could never come over and as best as she tried to not, confront him, she couldn't help but let her emotions get the best of her.
Ash was just somebody who riled her up and she didn't necessarily like that characteristic about herself. She thought about life after Snowbelle.
Palermo took her under her guidance and with that Serena flourished in her field. She grew up around costumes, plays, music, art, Pokémon theatre and dance. Loving how she bonded with her Pokémon and creating ways for people and Pokémon to laugh, smile and live. She remembered the sweet memories and faces of her fans. The wonder and starred eyed expressions when Serena would greet them, embrace them and smile for them. She adored listening to their thoughts on her performances and her being the strength they needed.
Serena smiled to herself, alerting Delphox a bit. She shook her head at the lady fox and continued on with her thoughts.
She thought about how her and Bonnie endure society together, trying to stay hush even though they were part of high profile families. They never lost sight of their friendship and kept each other grounded.
Serena shook her head, brought out of her inner thoughts by an alert. Speaking of Lunala, Bonnie was calling. Serena answered the call on her hologram tablet.
"Hi, Hi. Good morning, Serena!" Bonnie's clean, blushed face decorated the hologram. Serena could not help but chuckle at the excitement clearly on the young girls' face.
"Morning, Bonnie. To what do I owe such a pleasure?" Serena asked, eating a piece of fruit.
"Oh, I caught you during breakfast. Sorry, I was wondering if you would like to go to an exhibition match later this evening at the club." Serena perked up at the notion. It was an exciting invitation.
"Whose battling?" Serena asked, curious. She had not been to a match in some years. Her schedule was always booked.
"Diantha." Bonnie said simply. Serena watched her, raising a perfectly sculpted eyebrow.
"Just Diantha?" Serena questioned, smirking.
"Well, she is going against someone… okay! Fine." Bonnie cracked under Serena's stare, a smirk to her face. "Ash is having an exhibition match and he invited us all to watch. He made a comment about asking you to join us. So, I did my part and asked you if you would." Bonnie huffed. Dedenne could be seen, nestled in her round plait, snuggled up.
Serena's brows furrowed, her face looking like she was trying to understand a joke.
"Why would he ask me to come?" Serena voiced.
"I don't know, "Bonnie said sarcastically. "Maybe, because you're actually in Kalos while he's here. I don't know, maybe, because he wants you to see him battle. I don't know maybe he was just extending a friendly Pecha berry branch." Bonnie said, her tone soft but sarcasm was evident. Serena looked wide eyed at the lemon beauty. She was shocked at Bonnie's display. Bonnie sighed before taking a different approach.
"Look Serena, it's been 9 years, Ash has grown, you have grown. We all have. Maybe Ash, is just ready to bury the hatchet and you should to. Come to the exhibition match, maybe, actually take a moment to have a real conversation with him. You might be surprised at the person he really is." Bonnie said. Her voice remaining soft throughout. Serena watched her, a thoughtful expression on her face. She nodded to Bonnie before she said something. Her thoughts were a bit sporadic and she thought it be wise she pondered Bonnie's words.
"Good. I'll see you at 7, Lumiose Arena. Battler Personal is where we are sitting. Okay? Great." With that, the hologram deconstructed and left Serena in silence.
If only Bonnie had known how much Serena knew the kind of character Ash was.
Serena stood up and headed into her small balcony. Little vines and flowers were starting to grow on the old building but it added to the charm of the street. Serena held her hair down as the breeze gently swayed it. The leaves of the vines shimmering, creating a soothing sound during the cool morning.
This was not the first-time Bonnie ever spoke out about Serena and Ash's mutual unnerving towards each other. To be frank, it had become exhausting to hate someone. Serena felt tired more than anything when she would exchange words with him.
But, why now would he try? What was different?
"Maybe, it is time." She said, wistful, the breeze getting stronger, making her fail in holding down her hair.
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That same evening
The evening had turned into a glorious, orange colour. The setting sun making Lumiose look like a story tale. Merchants were closing up shop, restaurants preparing for the dinner crowd, Trainers were hurrying throughout the city, trying earnestly to reach their destinations before nightfall. Various styles of instruments could be heard in different corners of the heart of Lumiose while Pokémon gently swayed side to side on the strings of the music. Near a quad, close to the port of Lumiose, Serena could be seen taking in the evening offerings.
Serena had paused for a moment, taking in an amateur performance she was seeing in the quad on her way to the arena. She was dressed in a simple, evening dress, a light jacket thrown on while she had on some boots for the chilly night. She saw a girl with her Inkey, Lillegent and Flareon, performing to a random musician's soulful rendition of some song Serena was familiar with. The flute carried on the performance just of the edge of the semi crowded quad. The performer handled the change in beat fluidly as she directed her Pokémon. The attacks met each other in beautiful coordination while the performer was in sync with her Pokémon. The girl looked to be about 13. She had a few bugs to work out but Serena loved the innocence and freedom the performance clearly showcased. What added a to the flair of it all was the continuous smile on the girl's face. Throw in the fresh music being shared, gave the performance a charm Serena could never replicate in time.
With a final leaf storm that was met with psybeam, a beautiful collision of colours and spark ended the display on a high note. Appreciative applause filled the quad while the Pokémon and the performer took a shy bow. Serena was one to applause, herself truly impressed by the girl who just took a chance. Serena gazed at the happy faces of the quad, hearing conversations being birthed, giving many couples and groups something to discuss, probably leading to memories being shared of some similar experiences. This cause Serena to smile as, she, herself used to love doing that for people. It was a true effect of a great performer and performance.
"Miss Serena! Miss Serena!" Serena heard her name and turned to see where it was coming from. She saw it was the performer and she was hesitantly coming up to Serena. She smiled kindly, showing the girl it was okay to approach her. The girl looked relieved, sprinting to her, her Pokémon not far behind.
"I just wanted to say, I'm a huge fan of yours and…and… I want you to know that I want to be exactly like you!" The girl said out of breath. Serena considered this and watched the girl in a straight face.
"What is your name, dear?"
"Melody."
"Melody, don't aim to be me…" A kind smile on Serena's face let the girl know she had more to say "The world has a me, what the world needs, is a Melody." Serena smiled gently at her. "Keep doing what you do, you certainly have a gift and trust me, I know you will go far." Her smile widened when she saw the girl's hazel eyes begin to shimmer. "I will be rooting for you."
Melody gasped in wonder and was overcome by the kind words. "Thank you! I will do my best!" Serena nodded at the girl and noticed the sun had gone down completely now. She hurried to the arena before she was too late. She arrived in just enough time and headed to the section where Bonnie told her. She was met by a host at the entrance.
"Name mademoiselle?" The gentlemen asked, kindly.
"Uh, Serena Yvonne?" The man chuckled at her uncertainly but said nothing. He checked the list, scratched it and nodded. "Right, this way please, the rest of your party has arrived and eagerly awaits you." The man said, a hint of amusement in his tone. "A lovely, blonde madam had enquired about you, several times." Serena smiled knowing it was Bonnie. She followed the man quietly.
"Here you go, Mademoiselle, your box is here. Do enjoy. It is a privilege to see Monsieur Ketchum battle. A very nice man indeed." The jolly host said before directing her. Serena gave her thanks and a wave at the man before stepping into the room. She didn't know what to say when it came to Ash. It would be the first battle she would see him in since Wulfic's match. In previous events she met Ash, it would normally be for birthdays, anniversaries, social gatherings, charity events and barbecues if she had the time, it never gave opportunity to see him battle. It was always at relaxed affairs. She didn't realize Ash's battles were such rarity. It seemed she had missed out on a lot when it came to her ex friend.
During those events, whenever Ash approached her, she would be on defense to the point she stopped listening to him and lead to an altercation. Eventually, she realized her behaviour was appalling and decided to keep her distance when he was around. It affected the way she was when at an event. Keeping more to herself and reserved. Her friends would notice she would not be her usual self at these soirees but more of a quiet, reserved person who never gave input on a subject. When Serena was with them at their homes or her own, she was a fun, bubbly person who loved to wise crack with the rest of them or even at events where Ash had not managed to make it, she would be livelier, laughing, talking and even mingling.
She entered the box and saw many familiar faces, talking within each other. Some of her friends waved, others stopped her to talk about nothing in particular. She made her way to her destination after having some laughs with Dawn and her husband Paul, she took a seat on the plush booth nearest to the giant arena in front of them. She smiled at her company.
"Serena! I'm so glad you made it. We were worrying you would not make it. Did you walk or drive?" Clemont greeted her, a whisky in one hand, the other resting on along the long seat.
"I walked. I've been in cars, planes, buses and ships for the past 6 months. I missed just walking." Serena said, politely declining anything to drink from a waitress. Clemont nodded to that, he became distracted when Misty came up to him. They then began a gruelling conversation about part electric and ground Pokémon not being affected by water Pokémon. Serena shook her head, fully well knowing that conversation was not going to end well. With Misty's stubbornness and Clemont's accuracy on electrical attacks, it was a fire pit readying for fuel. Bonnie laughed before turning to face Serena, blocking Clemont out.
"I'm glad you made it." Bonnie said simply. Serena smiled slightly before nodding. Some deep part below her feelings, she was glad to.
A gentleman by the door suddenly called for everyone's attention.
"Excuse me, Madams and Misers. If you please, take your seats as the exhibition are about to take place." Everyone hurried quietly to their seats. Ensuring they were ready to witness the makings of a spectacular battle.
"Good Evening, Ladies and Gentlemen!" An ominous voice was heard throughout the speaker. During this, protective glass could be seen beginning to rise from the boxed windows. Funny, Serena thought there already were but it seemed it was an open arena. Large flat screens came down as well before a message warning viewers to stay in designated safe zones during battle came on.
"Right, safety measures have been installed and on with the battle. Tonight, we have a spectacular show. Tonight! The Kalos regions very own Champion. She has fought hard for this title, and kept it for many years. A rather lovely combination of Beauty and Daringly amazing battle skills. Everyone!" The announcer halted anting up the exciting. "Help me welcome, Diantha!" The applause was strong and loud, lasting several moments as Diantha came onto the field. She was smirking and looked like she was ready for this. Her eyes twinkled up, the stadium lights illuminating her, a big contrast to the black sky above the stadium. Serena clapped politely, feeling the familiar excitement in her stomach. Once she had not felt since she was 15 and watching Ash battle against Olympia.
"Yes, Yes!" The announcer continued, "Now, we have our Challenger. He is a man of recognised skilled, He has participated in every league, in every region. He is the Battle Master of Kanto's Battle Frontier as well as Kanto's own Champion. A rather strong willed trainer known for his signature Pokémon, a powerful Pikachu, give it up to the lethal Master, ASH KETCHUM!" The crowd was surprisingly deafening. The applause was like a giant havoc, Serena noticed it came from mainly ladies, some surprising their husbands and maybe wives. Serena was not going to lie to herself, he had been a very accomplished man and the years were very much in his favour. She understood why he would draw an attention like that.
When she looked down at the battlefield, she was dazed at what was displayed. Ash was coming out. The same serious, smirking expression she saw from since he was a teenager. His stance was different however. He had more purpose in his strides. Pikachu sat on his shoulder, looking vengeful, nothing like the cutesy Pokémon she had hush moments with. His face looked hard, clean shaven but still you could see the makings of a 5-o clock shadow on his cheeks. He had filled out over the years, masculine and muscular. That was some of the perks of being a trainer. Most of her trainer friends were like that. Serena observed him come to a stop. In front of Diantha. They both shook hands while the announcer jabbered off about this being a first match between champions in some years. The crowd was going nuts, whistles and horns could be heard going off in the packed-out stadium. She saw Ash and Diantha chatting about something, hands still held. It seemed amusing as Ash laughed loudly, throwing his head back. She was sure if it didn't have the crowd or horns, she could have heard him from here.
"Battlers! Time to get in your positions!" The referee announced, making his appearance. Diantha and Ash detached and headed to their respected positions. The rules were announced and the match began. Diantha lost the toss so she had to go first. She released a beautiful Aurorus, the Ice/ rock Pokémon came out stomping, screeching loudly, soulfully. The beautiful Pokémon made the crowd awe in its radiance. Serena gazed in wonder at such a beautiful Pokémon. It was Ash's turn and without skipping a beat, he threw his ball high into the air. A squalling noise could have been heard throughout the stadium. He had released a Latias. A strong looking one two. The countdown began and the bell was struck and on the match, went.
"I didn't know he had a Latias now." Serena said quietly as a murmured hush fell onto the stadium. The attacks were called and defences could be heard. Latias released a dragon pulse attack which missed Auroras by some inches creating a huge sand storm on the field. The glass panels did their jobs protecting the crowd. Bonnie overheard her and looked at her, ignoring the roar of the crowd when an attack would hit.
"He got her when he took a trip to Alto Mare. She's a complete sweetheart but a deadly battler." Bonnie detailed to Serena. "She is one of his Aces. The fact he is using her right of means he and Diantha have stakes."
"Stakes?" Serena repeated, looking for clarification.
"They bet against each other. Whoever loses probably has to do something ridiculous." Bonnie giggled, taking a sip of her fruit drink. "Last time, Ash lost and he had endured a day of shopping."
"That's not so bad."
"Oh no honey, Shopping meant anything. Diantha took him shopping when she bought a new house and needed someone to go furnishing shopping with her. After taking 3 hours to decide on a doorbell that she didn't even choose, Ash told her he would get her back. It's a never-ending cycle after that." Bonnie said, snickering once again. To Serena, Bonnie seemed to be remembering an incident.
"That's…I don't know how to comment on that."
"Normal people say 'That's sounds fun.' And go on their way." Bonnie sassed back at her. Serena rolled her eyes and playfully shoved the lemon blonde.
"I can't believe it! Latias is the winner! Auroras is defeated after quite a heated battle!" The announcer said. The cheering crowd almost overcasting his words.
Diantha was seen recalling her Pokémon to then release her ace, Gardevoir.
Serena saw Ash lick his lips as if ready to devour a good meal. He was ready for this.
Serena's attention got pulled into the battle. The motions, the craft behind it. The way the attack landed, it was like a ballet of sorts but instead, Pokémon were colliding head on to show the strength they had developed from a trainer who bonded with them. Trainers were studiously watching the rhythm and motion of the battle ,trying to figure out a manipulative way to get the battle in their favour without alerting the opponent. It was thrilling, it was something Serena could never have imagined. She knew battles but she never knew a battle like this. Her world was neat and coordinated while this was erratic and carefree. It was undoubtedly something… something… "Awesome!"
Serena blinked, confused at who had shouted that, when she looked around, she saw herself standing, arms raised, an excited look to her face. A bewildered Clemont and Bonnie staring at her let her know something was off. She realized it was her who had shouted and quietly sat down, acting like nothing happened. Clemont and Bonnie smirked to each other before focusing back at the game never commenting on her foreign behaviour.
She ordered a drink after that.
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Serena was walking pass some rooms in a majestic hall way, her head a bit frazzled. She was fidgeting with her jacket a bit, ensuring it was clean and in place. Her steps halted when she arrived in front of a double door that lead to her anxiety. She took a deep breath and opened the door. She walked in on a resting room and saw Ash sitting on a sofa, massaging Pikachu a bit. He was smiling kindly at the yellow Pokémon as if finally, in peace. The door got their attention.
Pikachu noticed her before Ash and excitedly jumped off the chair to scurry where Serena stood. He leapt into her awaiting arms and snuggled to her. "Pikaa!" She chuckled briefly before looking at Ash. He was staring at her, an unrecognizable expression on his face.
He got up and smiled unsure at her.
"You came, I'm glad." He said, no tone at all, simply stating a fact.
Serena smiled unsure at him. "I'm honestly glad I did. It was an incredible battle. Congratulations." She said evenly. Ash nodded, accepting of that. They looked at each other awkwardly for a moment. The silence adding a pressure of some sorts. She hadn't been around Ash long enough to have silence. She looked at him, really looked at him and saw someone different than the 17-year-old she was accustomed to seeing in her memories.
"Why Ash?" Serena heard herself asking, without her permission she had. He looked at her, his face relaxed. No expression really.
"Because It's time Serena. It's time." He said simply. Serena watched him, confused before nodding.
"Well, I can't argue there, now can I?" Serena smiled a bit before relaxing it a bit. Ash smirked a bit but said nothing. She saw he was holding back a retort. I guess habits don't die so fast. She smirked as well. She shook her head and let out a small laugh.
"Thank you for the invite. It was nice to see a battle after such a long time." Serena added. She wasn't sure why but she did.
Ash nodded, the unsure smile still present in his face.
"Look, Things after Clemont's party…" Ash began
"Save it, Mr Ketchum. Let's just call it, old news." Serena cut him off. She didn't really want to go through this. It was too much effort for something petty. Ash stared at her curiously.
"Look, Bonnie and Clemont wanted to let you know, to meet them at La Rokeete when you are finished up. Paul and Dawn are heading back to Sinnoh and wanted to see you one last time.I just came here to deliver message." Serena said, softly.
"Oh? Okay, I'm almost done… so…" Ash said, gesturing to nothing in particular, waiting for her direction. Serena eyes widened at the implication and gently placed Pikachu on the table next to her. She turned around and met the door before calling out to Ash.
"Right, right, well I guess I'll see you there. Um, Bye." With that, she left the room and headed out of the stadium. She took a moment while walking through the grand halls, muddling over how weird it felt in that situation. She wasn't sure but it felt… uncertain. She wasn't sure what Ash was up to but she resigned with that being it. Buried hatchet. Done.
It may have been unceremonious but she accepted that if he was being cordially then she could. This time they could actually pull it through. She stepped out of the stadium and was accosted by the darkness of the night, it was brightly lit in the streets allowing the nightlife to thrive now.
She decided to walk her way to the restaurant not bothering with a cab, releasing her Pikachu for company. She dubbed the mouse as Pichu due to her getting accustomed to calling her that when it was a Pichu. They walked in silence, cuddling with each other in the slightly chilly night. An old lady was passing same time as Serena walked the corner of a street. She was selling flowers; they were picked fresh and rather potent. Serena stopped the old lady, bought a flower and continued with her trek, inhaling the fresh scent of the carnation. It felt amazing to walk by herself, the city quiet as couples walked the romantic streets, or simple loners, like Serena enjoying the beauty that was the flair of Lumiose, lit up by street lamps, old fashion style, highlighting the cobbled pathways by the sides of buildings. Her footsteps being pronounced as her boot heels gently met the ground. She felt a breeze blow calmingly throughout the street. The sound of the ocean in the nearby port bringing the scene together. She had been around so many people for the past couple of months that she wasn't even sure she remembered solitude. Pichu, looked at her, hanging tightly from her shoulder, enjoying being with her master. Serena smiled at her before continuing with her pace. Taking her time.
She saw the restaurant and steeled herself to go in. It was only due to Bonnie's insistence or persistence, did she come. After the match had been declared, Serena gathered herself to head home before being stopped by Bonnie. Earnestly begging Serena to accompany them for a dinner Clemont was taking Ash for his victory. It was when Clemont hedged that he too wanted Serena to spend time with the group before everyone left to their respected regions did Serena cave. What made Serena a bit off put was her being the one to tell Ash the plans because 'Something came up.' Serena, reluctantly had found herself walking to his resting room to deliver the message. Serena was grateful on the down low as she had an opportunity to, thank him? She wasn't sure but she knew, Ash and her had come to some agreement. He was right. It was time.
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"Hey! I thought you would be here sooner?" Clemont asked, happily pulling Ash into the vacant seat next to him and immediately huddling him into a conversation with Paul.
Serena sat at the furthest end of the table, glad she chose where she was. She had a feeling Clemont would want Ash seated near him and gladly took a seat next to May and her boyfriend, Drew upon her arrival. Drew was a coordinator and had pulled Serena into a riveting conversation about the difficulties of combining fairy and dragon attacks. She was distracted when Ash came into the room, losing her point against Drew's argument.
"I took an unexpected detour, no worries." She overheard Ash saying. For a second, the timing had to be right but Serena swore she saw Ash glance at her when he said it. She closed her eyes for a moment before resuming her conversation with Drew.
Beautiful jazz numbers were being played in the background, adding ambience to the fun evening with friends. The restaurant's fountains blending perfectly with the ominous chatter among the patrons. The laughter accompanying the clinks of wine and joy circulating as people celebrated just living. It was nice and Serena enjoyed the hospitality.
After dinner, which was filled with laughter and good nature ribbing, Serena was saying good bye to Dawn.
"Promise me when you're in Sinnoh, you drop in for dinner, something! Okay?" Dawn told her earnestly, releasing her from a vice grip embrace. Serena laughed, shocked by the motion as she rarely did in gatherings. She was smiling at her dear friend who was making promises for an eventual meeting.
"Yes, Yes, I have some time off now, I might take a trip to see you, I have to visit Miette as well. So, for sure those won't be empty promises." Serena appeased the coordinator. "Paul, I do hope you do well in you next battle." Paul smiled at the woman and thanked her for her kind words. He was a man of few words, serious but kind to those close to him and Dawn.
"It was a pleasure seeing you again, Serena. Keep in touch or if I know my wife, she will hunt you down in vengeance." He chuckled even when Dawn pinched him on the side. They said their good nights, Serena saying it to her dinner mates before steeling herself to say goodnight to Clemont and Bonnie. She didn't have a problem with doing that, it was the 6 ft. muscularly lean man next to them that had her a bit hesitant. She had to admit, Ash looked great, even in a simple jeans, shirt and blazer. He had graduated from jackets, hoodies and jeans to instead soft pants and blazers. A sophisticated look that was so unlike Ash but he made it his own. Every time they had met, she took time to notice his change in physique and wardrobe. Peeking through the corner of her eyes when he was in the room and away from her, when they would talk\argue, she could not help but look him up and down. He really was easy on the eyes, maybe that was why it was so easy to go off on him.
Even if they were cordial, with the as Bonnie dubbed "Pecha berry branch" she didn't necessarily see them forming any kind of friendship.
"Well, Clemont, Bonnie… Ash?" Serena felt herself make a face when she said his name, as if trying to smile, "It's late, it was a nice evening but I'm heading out." She nodded.
"Serena!" Clemont said happily to her, ignoring her clear fight with etiquette, "Thanks for coming, I'll see you for brunch next week at my place. Okay?" Clemont said his tone suggesting she didn't have a choice. Serena raised an eyebrow but nodded none the less.
"Brunch, Clemont?" She said, straight face as if clarifying.
"Yes, Brunch?" Clemont confirmed, confused, wondering if he said something else.
"Brunch, Clemont?" Serena said, shooting a hidden wink at Bonnie.
"Yes, Brunch Serena?" Clemont said, shaking his head at her, picking up her game.
Are you sure you said Brunch, Clemont?" Serena said, allowing her smirk to finally be shown, her mockery prevalent.
Serena!" Clemont said, smiling at her a bit exasperated. He knew what she was getting at.
"I wish I recorded you saying that, honestly. Next thing you'll have a friend named Bitsie." She laughed along with everyone, especially after Clemont's sarcastic "Har, Har" in rebuttal before watching everyone. "Well, good night, I have a long walk home."
"What? You're walking? Why not have Jarvis pick you up?" Clemont asked, surprised she would walk this late hour. Serena was already shaking her head.
"I gave him and my staff and indecisive amount of vacation. They were working tirelessly for the final days of my tour, I told them to spend some time with loved ones. I'm a big girl Clemont, I can take care of myself." Serena laughed, a tinkling sound she made.
"Nonsense! Ash? I have to stay back to share some words with Jessie and James, maybe you could give her a drop?" Clemont asked the trainer. Serena's mouth popped open in shock.
"Of course! I would not be a gentleman if I did let her walk." Ash said, smiling a bit.
"No, No, I don't need one, I live right around here. It's not a problem." Serena interjected, not believing this.
"Exactly, you live around here, so it won't be trouble, at all. Anyways, Clemont, this was a great evening. We will talk soon. Come Serena." With that Ash turned and left the restaurant. Serena looked confused for a moment, gave Clemont a scathing look that she was sure if powerful enough he would have dropped to the floor in that instance, writhing in pain. Clemont nonchalantly shrugged, gave her a kiss goodnight on the cheek before ushering Bonnie with him to meet Jessie and James.
She stomped her way out of the restaurant to see Ash holding open a door of a town car. She gave him a brief look for a moment, caught off guard by the speed he got a car and made a sharp left to begin her walk home. Dismissing the implications instantly.
She didn't notice the shock look on Ash's face when he saw her veer left. She didn't see him shake his head while smiling at her antics.
Ash told his driver to go on ahead at Serena's address before dashing off after the Kalos beauty.
"So, do you always like to walk in the late hours of the night, Miss Yvonne?" Ash said, cheekily, grinning, having caught up to her in easy strides. She was caught off guard when she heard his voice so near her. She didn't respond.
"Awe, don't be like that Serena, it's a lovely night but not wise to walk by oneself." Ash said, tucking his hands into his pocket, keeping up with her fast pace, even if it was normal for him.
"Mr Ketchum…" Serena began, but was cut off by him
"C'mon, you can call me Ash." She only called him Mr Ketchum when she was really displeased with him. Ash never realized how much it irked him when she did.
"I rather not," She halted her steps, a bit put off she was dealing with this, even more confused on why he was entertaining this request of Clemont's. "Mr Ketchum, I understand safety is important but I have my Pokémon, also, I don't see the need for you to walk me to my place, if not you can head back to your town car." Serena said, Ash chuckled a bit, sending Serena into a next world. Where was the Ash who would argue with her at the slightest provocation? Why was this Ash seemingly amused by everything she said?
"I am not walking you to your place, I'm simply, taking a walk in the streets of Lumiose, you just happen to be here." Ash said, straight and looking down at her.
"Well, let me not hinder your view." Serena said before jutting off again, angered when he managed to keep up with her.
"I was rather enjoying the view, no hindrances at all." Ash said smoothly, walking along her. She was caught off guard by the statement and chose to not say anything. She shot him a look of doubt in rebuttal but continued on in silence. She slowed her pace, even though Ash was here, it should not prevent her from enjoying the city she missed for many months. She easily forgot about him and was sucked into the beauty of the city. On her way, she took a detour through a park, it was busy for a night, couples roaming through, listening to a musician by one of the gazebos, playing relaxing French/Kalos accordion music. It was soothing and fit the scenery perfectly. However, Serena was put off as it made the park more romantic than it was. She looked over and saw Ash staring at her and making herself regret coming through the park. She sighed and with her uninvited walk buddy she took off, walking through the park to reach her apartment. She didn't need to feel like a couple with him, especially not that.
Ash just kept walking behind her, watching here, ensuring she made her destination. He had not been in Kalos for a year and some, the last being for the dreaded barbecue where somehow, Serena had thrown potato salad at him while red wine had somehow stained her white dress. To be honest, he missed his friend and he agreed he was an ass after the incident but he never expected it to reach a stage where now, he had to make things right. Clemont was right, he needed to make a change. The first being himself.
He listened to the many musicians play various notes of the accordion, each occupying the gazebos of the large park, people gathering around the ones that suited their taste and pace of song.
It was a beautiful part of Kalos that Ash truly loved. It was true, Lumiose City was the heart of love in the region, be it with Pokémon, humans and soul. It was a place that allowed you to fall in love, itself. The luscious park filled with evergreens made it such a relaxing atmosphere. Ash could not help be enjoy the night walk in the city of love.
It was just ironic that it might be with something or someone you least expected.
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An hour after dinner
"Your humble abode, Mademoiselle." Ash said, flourish to his arms as he gestured to her apartment outside. Serena rolled her eyes at his display. The street was unusually busy, people walking the streets, huddled under coats and hats as the temperature dropped. Pokémon snuggling up to their trainers to feel warmth. Serena shivered a bit, grateful to be home at last.
"I would say thank you but I didn't ask you to walk me home." Serena said, dry like toast.
"Well, I will say 'You're welcome because of context." Ash said, smiling at her. Serena stared at him, giving nothing away.
"Thank you, Mr Ketchum." Serena softly, noticing the tightening of his eyes.
"Your welcome, Miss Yvonne." Ash replied, he smirked at her. "Do have a good night. Anyways, my chariot awaits and I don't like to keep Koury." Ash said, gesturing. Serena was surprised to see a town car parked further down the street. The familiar gentlemen she saw who was always behind Ash at some events leaning against the car, looking on at the duo.
With that, Ash waved while walking to the car and getting in.
It was after a few moments when Serena was upstairs in her place, holding a cup of lemon tea, head out into her balcony, did she see notice the town car pull away from the sidewalk. She was confused once again by the actions.
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~FireFlyVal~