Chapter One
Walking in her classroom with a pile of books in her arms, Delia breathed a sigh of relief when she reached her desk and put her books on it. She had just finished reading them over the weekend and meant to give them back to Professor Oak, who was already in the classroom organizing paper work for his students that day. He hadn't had the chance to wipe down the black board yet which had "Have a great weekend, everyone!" written on it.
"Good morning, Sam" Delia greeted him with a big smile as she watched him sort out the paper work.
"Good morning, Dee, nice to see your early as always" Professor Oak said, returning the smile.
"Mmhm! Mum dropped me off this morning. I finished reading the books you lent me. Thank you for letting me borrow them. They were really informative and helped me learn what I needed to know about my studies" Delia said as she pointed to the books.
"How is Sally? Your welcome and that's great news!" Professor Oak asked. He walked over to her and picked up his books making a mental note to take them back home when he and Delia finish university that day. Delia was coming home with him that day to help him in the lab which she does often after university.
"Mum's good, thanks, Sam" Delia replied and was about to say something else when a few students (Delia's fellow classmates) began making their way in. Some carried piles of paperwork in their arms others had nothing. Delia watched as they came in and chose their desks. She noticed one student had closed the door behind them and sat at their desk chatting away excitedly to their friend. The door opened a while later and a head teacher whose name Delia couldn't remember, appeared with a new student.
"Professor Oak? This is your new student, Daniel Allistair. He got a bit lost finding his way to your classroom. I don't have much time to stay and chat as I have things to do and people to see, ta-ta!" the teacher said then rushed out before Professor Oak could even say thank you to them.
Daniel rubbed the back of his head nervously and gave a weak smile, he was quiet shy at first. Daniel wore a long-sleeved orange shirt with a brown vest, black pants and a pair of tennis shoes. He had azure hair and brown eyes, and wore a pair of glasses.
"Good morning, Daniel, it's nice to meet you" Professor Oak smiled to his student as he walked over to him. A few more of his pupils turned up and took their seats while he was busy chatting to Daniel, once everyone had settled, Professor Oak took that opportunity to introduce his new student to the class.
"Good morning, everyone. We have a new student joining our class this semester. I'd like you to greet your new classmate: Daniel Allistair," Professor Oak announced with a smile. He then nodded to Daniel, who looked at all of his new classmates.
While some of the other students had been asking where he was from (a question he didn't feel like answering quite yet), Delia took it upon herself to welcome the new addition. "Welcome, Daniel and I hope you enjoy your semester here. My name is Delia Ketchum, it's wonderful to meet you." Their classmates had taken note of it and introduced themselves one by one in their own way. After the introductions, Daniel noticed an empty desk next to Delia.
"It's nice to meet all of you and I can't wait to make friends. At least I hope we can all be friends," he said nervously. "Uh, Professor Oak, is that where I'm going to be sitting?" Daniel asked, skillfully shifting his books to one hand and using the other to point to the empty desk.
Daniel let his eyes dart around the room, attempting to see if there had been an empty desk he might've missed. He then realized that that was the only desk and began to make his way to it. "Yes, it is. We had a student who used to sit there, but he had to move to the Kalos region," Professor Oak explained as he watched Daniel go to his new seat. The professor hadn't been trying to seem rude about the seating arrangement, it's just that sometimes, things happen when a student moves away.
"He was actually Delia's boyfriend," a girl named Madison announced with a smirk. Madison wore a red, short skirt with an off-white blouse and a pair of thong sandals; she had red hair which was pulled into a bun, blue eyes and had braces that were pink and light green. "But he broke up with her because his dreams were more important and he was dating another girl, too!" At this, Delia was embarrassed. There were those in the class who knew that this wasn't true and was merely a rumour. Most likely started by Madison. Then there were those who believed Madison (and were snickering about it) and finally, there was the group that chose not to say anything about it. Out of the corner of her eye, Delia saw some of her friends sending stares that told them to knock it off and also, Daniel taking off his bag and settling in his seat. The group had quieted down and Professor Oak smiled, grateful he didn't have to interfere.
"Really? That's awful. I'm sorry to hear that, Delia," Daniel said, looking at her sympathetically.
"Thanks, Daniel, but not all of that is true," Delia reassured him. She and Daniel chatted idly, as did some of their fellow classmates while Professor Oak took that time to erase the board and pull out a folder to collect the homework. The two of them began to talk for a while until Professor Oak spoke.
"Did everyone finish their homework that I gave them over the weekend?" Professor Oak asked as he looked around at his students. He made a mental note to tell Daniel that he wouldn't have to worry about this assignment.
"My dad's Growlithe ate my homework!" Madison lied. It was clear that Madison didn't even bother to do her homework. She wasn't interested in Pokémon (however, her father DID have a Growlithe) and her parents made her go to university. Some students laughed at Madison's response, whereas Delia just rolled her eyes. She hated how Madison didn't have respect for Professor Oak and the other teachers. She knew Madison could be well liked by everyone in their class if she changed her personality and attitude.
"Honestly, I don't know why you're in this class sometimes, Madison," Spencer said with a sigh. He got his homework out of his bag and gave it to the professor while looking at Madison. "You always make up excuses about your homework. I did mine as soon as I got home." Spencer wore a blue tank top with a light grey shirt over it, a pair of black shorts and sandals. He had blond hair and onyx eyes; he too had braces, but unlike Madison's, his were dark blue and red.
"I did mine here in the library so I wouldn't have any distractions from my brothers" Delia announced and then gave hers to the Professor. "You know what they're like," she said with a smile.
"They can be quite a handful, can't they?" Professor Oak said with a smile as he took her homework. He recalled a time where Delia's brothers kept bugging her while she was trying to do her homework at home and all they wanted was her to play with them but they didn't understand how important her work was to her. In the end she decided to be a good sister and spend time with them, leaving her work for later that night. Professor Oak remembered seeing how Delia tired was the next day!
"Mmhm. That's especially true for my youngest brother. But I love them," Delia said. She then returned to her desk and hummed a tune to herself. Delia had known Professor Oak all of her life for her father happens to be best friends with the man. However, it wasn't until she turned 16 when she started to develop a crush on him. Her parents found out about her crush when she turned 17 when they accidentally stumbled across a dairy Delia once kept while they were looking for a family photo album. Much to Delia's relief, her parents were fine with it, though her brothers would tease her now and then.
After his students handed in their homework, except for Madison who instead started drawing on some paper, Professor Oak was finally able to announce what the next assignment will be. While he was busy informing his students about what they had to look at, Madison's mobile phone rang and she answered it.
"Hello? Oh hey Snookims! That's awesome to know. Right now I'm in Professor Slowpoke's class, you know the boring ol' fossil I was telling you about? Yep the know-it-all is here... Are you? AH! I'm stoked! Alright see ya soon, gotta go 'cause the old boy is giving me evil looks" Madison said with a smirk, calling Professor Oak 'the old fossil' and Delia 'the know it all'.
Many students stared at Madison in shock, some giggled. How could she be so rude in class and have such disrespect for Professor Oak?!
"Madison, you should know the rules about mobile phones being in class. They should be silent or turned off," Professor Oak firmly warned her. He ignored the fact that she had called him names as they didn't offend him, he ignored those who chose to laugh at what Madison said. Delia, however, was angry at Madison for what she had said and wanted to say something about it but decided against it.
Madison would've rolled her eyes, but even THAT would've pushed it. "Feh, whatever, Professor Slowpoke" she replied, completely ignoring what he said. She picked her phone back up and began to message someone. Many students "oohed" her reply, a few snickered, while others focused on their studies. Delia looked at Professor Oak and slowly calmed down before resumed to her work.
Professor Oak decided he'd have a word with Madison later, if he gets the chance to catch her after the lesson. He continued on with class as per usual, while Madison chose to play games on her phone with the volume up. The game's tone was the most annoying one she could possibly choose, which made many students complain. Delia too, was annoyed by it.
"Madison!" Professor Oak scolded her. Madison ignored him and grinned while she played the game, turning the volume up louder. Most of the students turned their eyes on Madison who chose to continue playing her game with the volume up.
"Get down, darn you!" Madison yelled out at her mobile, making everyone look at her direction. "Oh, you stupid thing! You're supposed to go this way!" she added in frustration, grinning as she played the game on her phone.
"DIE ALREADY!" Madison yelled at her phone as she pressed buttons on it, clearly enjoying herself as everyone stared at her. "No! Not that way, this way! Shesh! Your an idiot!" she said aloud.
"You've gotta be kidding me! You were right in front of the target and you missed it, you fool!" Madison proceeded to talk loudly at her phone. The ones watching Madison went back to their work.
Professor Oak would've liked to remove Madison's phone from her, however, she seemed to have a good grip on it. So instead, much to his surprise, Daniel got up in anger and snatched the phone from a shocked Madison when he had the chance to then gave it to Professor Oak who put it in his draw. Many students clapped and cheered, Delia watched on in interest then resumed her study. Daniel returned to his seat, shooting a glare at Madison before resuming his work.
Madison lifted the top of her desk up and grabbed some paper, teared it up and started chewing on it. She grinned as she looked at Delia and threw the paper at her, getting it in Delia's hair. Delia knew at once it was Madison who wanted to get her angry. Delia chose to ignore her and continue on with her work, Madison repeated her behavior until she ran out of paper. Professor Oak busied himself with marking students paperwork while this was going on, so he didn't get to witness her throw wet paper in Delia's hair, otherwise he'd have something to say to her.
Recess soon came and everyone put away their work then went on a break, bidding good bye to Professor Oak who took the opportunity to ask Madison a few questions. He took note that Delia had chewed up paper in her hair which made him annoyed that he didn't see Madison do that until Delia made her way to the classroom door.
"Madison, can I have a word with you?" Professor Oak asked, Delia heard him and smiled. She hoped that Madison won't be rude while he speaks to her alone. She busied herself and picked the chewed up paper from her hair in disgust and put them in the bin which was outside the classroom door.
"As long as you give my phone back sure" Madison answered rudely. Delia frowned at that response then made her way to her locker with Spencer and Daniel who were waiting for her outside the classroom.
"Madison, why are you rude and destructive in class and why did you chew paper and put in Delia's hair?" Professor Oak asked, noticing that everyday since she joined his lessons she had been that way, and was nearly always bullying Delia.
"Cause your classes are boring and I have no interest in studies. My parents forced me to come here so I figure if I be like this then I can drop out and focus on my dreams and I don't like you or your girlfriend, Delia. I figured her hair looks better with rubbish in it, because she is rubbish!" Madison replied. "Now give me my phone before I call your boss on you for stealing it and expose your relationship with Delia" She demanded.
"Delia and I aren't in a relationship, she's not rubbish either, Madison. Not sure why you think we are a couple, I mean sure I've known her all my life. I'm best friends with her parents, her and her brothers and nearly everyone knows that. Hm, if you aren't interested in studying why not talk to your parents about it instead of taking your problems out on other people?" Professor Oak said. "it's pretty unfair on everyone in the class and I think you'd be a great student if you put your mind to studying, Madison. You could do so much better, even if you don't like the classes!" he added.
"Feh! Whatever, that's what you say. But I'm sure your in smitten with her. I've tried talking to them but they won't listen. They think it's good for me. When I wanted to do something different, but nooo they never agree. I figured being destructive is the best way for me to get out of this, hell, they won't even care if I was like this. Mum and Dad are far to busy to worry about me" Madison replied, causing Professor Oak to blush at the part where she said she's certain he's smitten with Delia. He only hoped Madison hadn't notice him blush. While it was true that Madison's parents were busy - her father being a police officer and her mother, a nurse, they truly cared about their daughter and only wanted the best for her, which was the main reason why they sent her to university, believing it would help her achieve her dreams.
Professor Oak thought for a moment and wondered how he could help Madison reach out to her parents. 'Perhaps a meeting with them ought to do it?' he thought. "I might see if I can arrange a meeting with your parents to talk to them..." before he could finish, Madison cut in.
"WHAT? NO! Don't!" Madison said in alarm. Her parents didn't know about her behavior in school as they thought she was a Straight A student, where in fact, she cheated to get those grades, by paying a nerd to do her homework. She was certain if her parents found out her real grades she'd be toast!
Professor Oak looked at her in concern. "Why? Is there something wrong at home?" he asked, wondering if that could be the reason of her misbehaving in class.
Madison shook her head. "I can't tell you, but I just don't want the meeting! Can I have my phone back?!" she said, putting her hand out to get her phone. Professor Oak let out a sigh and went to get it out of the drawer, he returned to it and noticed she hadn't apologized for the way she acted earlier. He gave it to her, with that, Madison gladly took her phone and walked out of the classroom with a huff, slamming the door behind her, leaving Professor Oak surprised by that.
Delia had made her way to her locker with Spencer, Daniel, Caroline and Norman chatting to them as she did. She told them about the happenings in the class that morning. Spencer, Caroline and Norman praised Daniel for what he did, who grinned. "I still can't believe she chewed paper up and spat it in your hair, wish I was there!" Norman frowned, as he imagined that happen. Caroline nodded in agreement, wishing she could've stopped Madison doing that.
"It doesn't worry me, honestly guys, but thanks for your support" Delia said with a big smile. While they were talking, Madison grew angry at them when they laughed at Daniel taking her phone from her and Professor Oak putting it in the draw. She frowned and decided to get revenge on Delia and the Professor. After all, she hated university and figured being kicked out was the best way for her to get out of it instead of talking to her parents.
"So, Delia, did you end up hearing anything from Augustine Sycamore?" Spencer asked her as she unlocked her locker to get her morning tea out. Augustine was Delia's childhood friend and former boyfriend.
"No, not a thing since he broke up with me to go follow his dreams to become a professor" Delia replied sadly. "I expected you to say that because you know what he's like. Wherever he is, I hope he leads a successful life. Maybe someday we'll reconnect" she said sounding hopeful with a sad tone to her voice. She tried to stop herself from crying, which she managed to do after wiping her eyes with her hand. She grabbed her morning tea and closed her locker again, locking it.
Madison remembered Augustine and how he and Delia seemed like a close couple, which made her feel jealous. Though Madison herself does have a boyfriend named Liam, who was very same person who she was talking to in class on her phone.
At this, Spencer's demeanor had changed. He hadn't meant to hurt Delia's feelings or make her cry.
"I'm sorry Delia," Spencer murmured. "I hope your right though and that you both get the chance to reunite!" he added.
Delia sighed again as she put the lock back on the locker. "It's alright, I admit that I really do miss him. After all, it's been two months since he left." Her voice started to break again, making Spencer feel bad. Spencer wanted to apologize again, but he put his hand on her shoulder instead to comfort her.
"Don't forget, he was my friend," Spencer began, before remembering that some of the former couple's mutual friends were there.
"Er, our friend, too, Delia." He then took a breath. "We all miss him, too." That wasn't a lie. Delia hadn't been the only friend that Augustine had left behind.
"You two seemed close, but I suppose things happen for a reason," Spencer said, remembering where his hand was. He removed it and that was partially due to him having noticed that they weren't all being watched. The other portion of the reason was that he couldn't just leave his hand on her shoulder all day!
Delia walked with Spencer, Daniel and her other friends to their favourite spot in the university yard which was located under a big shady tree. Madison followed after them in the shadows. "What do you guys plan to do when you finish university?" Daniel asked, as he looked at Delia first. "I'm not sure what I want to do. I mean there are so many opportunities!"
"I really want to become a model and a Pokémon Trainer. I love making clothes in my spare time" Delia announced cheerfully. Sewing was one of her favourite hobbies. Her grandmother had taught her at a young age and thanks to her, Delia was able to make wonderful outfits. She's made clothes for each family member.
"I would love to get married and have a family. I'd love to have a daughter, I'd name her Molly if I had one" Spencer replied with a smile. "Of course, I'll still study to eventually become Professor Spencer Hale!"
"I plan to run the Petalburg City Gym which is in the Hoenn Region, and marry Caroline!" Norman answered, putting his arm around his girlfriend. Norman wore a black T-shirt under a red jacket with blue jeans and tennis shoes and the jacket is zipped three quarters of the way up, he had oxford hair and navy eyes.
"Maybe we'll have a family too!" Caroline smiled as she looked at Norman and hugged him. "I'd love for us to get married, Norman and have two children. It would be nice to have one of each a boy and a girl" Caroline said. She wore a short orange skirt, a light pink midriff tank-top with a yellow sweater and a black sash over it so she wouldn't have to worry about being caught for wearing something that revealing. She had brown hair which was tied up in two side pony tails and blue eyes.
Delia smiled at Caroline and Norman. "You two are sweet together. I'm sure all of you will have wonderful futures. Let's make a promise to stay in touch!" she exclaimed. Her gaze shifted from the young couple to Spencer and Daniel.
"You bet!" everyone cried out with excitement.
The friends sat underneath the shady tree and started eating their morning tea, talking and laughing together. "So, Dee, did you end up confessing your feelings to him?" Caroline asked in whisper after she had sat down next to her. Delia blushed and shook her head. She remembered a few days ago, Delia had told her she planned to confess her feelings to Professor Oak when she had the chance. Caroline and Norman knew she had a crush on him but wasn't too sure about the professor and his feelings towards Delia, either way, they supported her.
"I couldn't, I mean... I wanted to but... I didn't feel that the timing was right, you know?" Delia answered, feeling somewhat ashamed of herself. She had the opportunity on the weekend as she stayed at Professor Oak's to help out in the lab, but became too shy to tell him and was worried about being rejected.
"When you do, let us know and we'll celebrate! We know how much you love Sam," Caroline offered, placing an arm around Delia. "You can do it! I know you can, if I can confess my feelings to Norman then you can with Sam!" That was true, Caroline was the first one to open up about her feelings to Norman when they were 15. They're now 17.
Madison listened to the conversation and tried to think who this Sam person was that Delia had a crush on. 'The only Sam I can think of is Professor Samuel Oak, but surely Delia wouldn't have a crush on him! He's too old and probably married with kids!' Madison thought with a scoff. She then quickly covered her mouth as she was hiding in the bushes nearby, thankfully nobody appeared to have noticed her. 'The only other Sam I can think of is the janitor who seems to be around the same age as Delia and ugly too' Madison added to her collection of thoughts. Sam the Janitor was just that, he is the same age as Delia and loves to chat with her when he'd get the chance.
"So who is this Sam guy, Delia? Someone I know? Of course, I'm new here and I don't know anyone named Sam in our classroom" Daniel answered, not realizing the professor's name was Samuel.
Delia looked at Caroline to ask her for help about this, she didn't want to tell Daniel about her crush on the professor, after all, she barely knew the teen.
It was as if Caroline read her mind. "Sam... let's see... Do you know a Sam, Norman?" she looked at Norman in confusion, pretending to have no idea who this Sam person is. The group didn't want many people finding out about Delia's crush after all.
"Nope, never heard of this Sam. If you find out who this Sam guy is, then you must be a pretty smart!" Norman replied, winking to Spencer who looked confused for a moment and then caught on what was going on.
Daniel shrugged. "Ah well, anyway I'm going to head up and go to class, see you later," he got up and waved to the group and left. Madison shrugged and decided to follow after Daniel, without him noticing - she was at least hoping to get some information about Delia from Daniel and to find out who this Sam guy is.
Once morning tea was over, Delia and the others returned to their class, and began to work on a few assignments that Professor Oak had handed out to them. Most of the students worked hard on them, except for Madison who decided to put her feet on her desk and her hands behind her head, she got out her mobile phone and put her earphones in her ears and the phone itself, smiling she began to listen to music and hum to herself. Professor Oak noticed her behavior and sighed. Madison was one of his troublesome students, he wished for once that she'd make an effort into studying. Soon university was over for the day, Delia put her homework away in her bag and made her way to the car park.
"Delia, wait!"
Delia turned around and watched as Daniel ran up to her with a smile. "Whew! I'm glad you waited. Would you like a lift home?" Delia gave him a smile but shook her head 'no'.
"Thank you for offering Daniel, but I've already got a lift home. I'm just waiting for him to come"
Daniel looked glum when she said that.
"I didn't know you had a new boyfriend!" he said before realizing what he had just said.
'Oh, I shouldn't have said that! Just because a guy is coming to pick him up doesn't make him her boyfriend. For all I know, she could be talking about her dad,' Daniel thought to himself.
"I don't have a new boyfriend," Delia quietly murmured.
"Really? I thought someone as beautiful as you would have one by now" Daniel commented, smiling to her. "By the way, what are you doing tonight?"
Delia looked at Daniel then she glanced to see if Professor Oak was coming. She had only just met Daniel and wasn't sure how she felt about him and she was still getting over her breakup with Augustine.
"I'm working tonight," Delia replied waving to Caroline and Norman who had started walking up to the parking lot, waiting for their parents to pick them up. The couple waved back.
"Where do you work?" Daniel asked eagerly, maybe he could get a job with Delia and get to know her more.
"I'm sorry Daniel, but I can't tell you," Delia apologized. She didn't want to tell him that she worked as an assistant at Professor Oak's lab; that would spark untrue stories about her and Professor Oak. They already had enough troubles with a lady in her early forties thinking that the professor and Delia were a couple; the woman even started spreading news about their relationship, but Delia was sixteen back then. People didn't believe the old lady and told her off. That was a year ago, as Delia is now seventeen.
"Would you like me to wait with you until your lift comes?" Daniel asked, still smiling.
Delia shook her head. "Thank you for the offer, but my lift is here now," she said, having spotted Professor Oak walking up to the car park with a briefcase in his left hand and the books Delia had returned to him in his right.
Daniel figured that Delia was one of those women who liked to play hard to get, which made him want to win her heart even more. 'I've got to go out with her, even if it's just once! She's the most beautiful girl in the whole school! Surely she'd be interested in dating someone!' he thought.
"Well, maybe tomorrow, then?" Daniel asked, sounding hopeful. Delia politely declined his offer and she said goodbye to him when she watched Professor Oak put the briefcase and books down for a moment so he could unlock his car and opened the passenger doors and backseat one. Professor Oak beamed to her and put his books and briefcase in the backseat, and closed the door. Delia climbed into the front passenger side and smiled as she clipped her seat-belt on. Professor Oak closed the door for her and went to the drivers seat and sat down, closing the door and putting his seat-belt on.
"Was everything okay after you spoke with Madison?" Delia asked, hoping that Madison didn't hurt him.
Professor Oak told her about what happened during his and Madison's talk, not leaving out anything. Delia blushed when he told her about Madison saying he was in smitten with Delia.
"I still can't believe how rude she can be. Your right though, Sam. I think she'd be a great student and friend if she'd drop this attitude of hers and I wonder why she wouldn't let you meet her parents, seems odd to me" Delia said as he started the car and reversed out when it was safe to do so and started driving back to the lab.
"Spencer said he's got a date tonight, so he won't be coming to the lab. He just told me after class," Professor Oak announced as he looked at Delia changing the subject, who slightly blushed at the thought of her and the professor being alone. Spencer and Delia would often help Professor Oak at the lab as often as they could ever since his wife passed away several years ago. Delia would bring some delicious meals for the three to eat.
"Really? That's great news! I'm happy for Spencer, though funny he didn't mention that to me earlier today. Daniel asked me out, but I declined. Besides, I want to focus on my dreams in becoming a model and a Pokémon Trainer after university," Delia told him. "I made a lasagna and a cheesecake for tonight."
"You would defiantly make a great model and Pokémon Trainer. Lasagna and cheese cake? They sound great, thank you, Delia" Professor Oak complimented. "I had a phone call around lunch time from one of my assistants, you know, Richard? He mentioned that a trainer had found a badly injured Bellossom in Route 1 - near Pallet Town and had a note attached to it. " Professor Oak added with concern in his voice. "He said this Bellossom wasn't doing too well and that the trainer couldn't make it to the Pokémon Center, as they were more concerned for it's life as it appeared to be in pretty bad shape"
"What did the note say?" Delia asked, thinking perhaps that maybe Richard let Professor Oak know what was written in it.
"That's the thing, Richard didn't tell me. I asked but he said it's best for me not to know until I return to the lab. However, he planned to leave the note on my desk. He says that he believes all that Bellossom requires is a Revive, Full Restore, several Leppa Berries and a good night's rest. Let's hope he's right" Professor Oak answered, as he continued driving. He stopped at a set of red traffic lights and was annoyed about the stop - there were several cars that had to pass through the green lights and it felt like forever.
Remembering what Delia mentioned earlier about Spencer not telling her about the date, Professor Oak looked at her. "About Spencer's date? He simply forgot to announce as he was in a state of excitement" he informed her, causing Delia to laugh. That was typical of Spencer.
After a while of waiting, the lights turned green, and Professor Oak was able to continue driving - which didn't take them long to reach Professor Oak's Lab. An anxious Richard had the Bellossom in his arms and greeted Professor Oak and Delia, noticing that the professor had books in arm and the briefcase in the other. "Sir, this is the Bellossom I was talking about," Richard blurted out.
The Pokémon itself had cuts and bruises all over its body, the second thing that Delia had noticed, was that the Pokémon was a female. "She looks like she's in poor shape, however, Richard is right what she needed. I'll go fetch the Revive and Full Restore, then find some Leppa berries to give her to eat. Richard could you please lay her down in the room where we keep injured Pokémon?"
Richard nodded and carried the Bellossom to the Pokémon Sick Bay - as he calls it anyway. He knew it had a name however, he had forgotten what it was. He Bellossom on the bed and made the Pokémon as comfortable and waited for Delia to return for the items required. While that was happening, Professor Oak put his books and briefcase away before returning back to Delia and Richard in the Pokémon sick bay.
Delia immediately got the Revive and the Full Restore (since she knew where they were), she ran to the Pokémon Sick Bay -where the professor and Richard were, keeping an eye on the Bellossom to ensure that her condition doesn't deteriorate. Delia joined Professor Oak's side and gave him the items. Professor Oak gently took the Revive from Delia and used it on the grass Pokémon, who flinched as the spray was cold on her. "Richard, could you please get me the note you were talking about that was attached to this Pokémon?" Professor Oak requested, as he sprayed the Full Restore on Bellossom.
"Yes, I'll go and find it," Richard left the room to look for the note. He remembered leaving it on a desk but which one he wasn't too sure.
Bellossom shook in response to the Full Restore that Professor Oak had sprayed on her, and shivered for a moment. She looked up at Delia and Professor Oak - and leapt off the bed excitedly, obviously gaining her health back. "Bellossom! You should be resting not jumping about," Delia exclaimed in surprise. Bellossom however, didn't listen. She instead ran around the room excitedly and noticed the door was left open - Richard clearly had forgotten to close it behind him and the grass type Pokémon ran out as fast as she could.
Professor Oak ran after the Pokémon, with Delia chasing after her hoping to catch Bellossom. However, Bellossom appeared to be full of energy and curiosity just like a child who found something new. The grass type would stop for a moment once Delia or the professor neared her then would take off when something caught her eye. "I wish she'd slow down, while I'm glad she's healed, she really should take it easy and rest, she still is physically injured. Dee, I think you and I should try and catch her while she's in a corner, or at least try to get her into one. I'd ask Richard for help; however, he seems to be taking his time finding that note" Professor Oak said, stopping for a moment to talk to Delia.
"How would we lure Bellossom into the corner?" Delia asked, watching as the Pokémon decided to sit up on a couch. She nodded to the professor, who grinned, the two friends walked quietly and close to the grass type. "Never mind about the corner, this may be our chance on catching her," Professor Oak suggested as he and Delia spread their arms open to catch the Pokémon. "Ready?" Professor Oak looked at Delia, who nodded. "On the count of three," he continued, as the two crept closer. Bellossom glanced around the room from where she was, then noticed the two creeping up on her, with their arms open. The Pokémon watched on.
"ONE," Professor Oak began his count, as he and Delia inched closer to the Bellossom who seemed amused watching them. The small Pokémon looked around the room she was in, while keeping an eye on the two friends at once.
"Two," Delia joined in, hoping to successfully catch the Pokémon.
"THREE!" Professor Oak and Delia exclaimed, and jumped at the Bellossom, with their arms wide open, the two wrapped their arms around the grass type Pokémon. "Now, Delia!" Professor Oak said, as he held the Pokémon firmly in his arms. However, the grass type wriggled a lot and tried her hardest to get out of his arms, Delia wouldn't allow it though. She put her arms around the Bellossom, gently taking her out of Professor Oak's arms. Giggling, Delia smiled to the professor "You know, Sam, this is almost like looking after a child," she commented as she watched the Pokémon wriggling to get out of her arms, however, Delia held Bellossom close to her and firmly, refusing to let go of her.
"And we're kind of like parents of a mischievous child!" Delia playfully added on - earning a chuckle from the professor. The two friends quietly walked together with Bellossom back to the Pokémon Sick Bay. "To come and think of it, it is kind of like that, huh, Dee?!" Professor Oak agreed, returning a smile. She blushed after realizing what she had said.
Together, the two managed to finally get Bellossom to lay down on the bed, and watched her to ensure she wouldn't run off again, however, she didn't as she fell asleep. "That's a relief, I'm glad she's resting! We'll give her some Leppa Berries in the morning, right now she has to stay the night. Tomorrow I shall contact Officer Jenny to inform her about the situation," Professor Oak said half whispering to Delia, to ensure that he doesn't wake the sleeping Pokémon up by accident. "In the mean time, let's grab something to eat, I'm starved!" They left the room, closing the and locking the door behind them and made their way to the kitchen to have dinner.
"I wonder if Richard is okay, he has been a while," Delia said, remembering that he left to find a note. "It shouldn't take that long to find one, surely!" she added, sounding slightly frustrated. "Maybe he had to go home for some reason? He sometimes heads home without telling us!" Professor Oak suggested.
When they got to the kitchen, Delia put the lasagna in the microwave for a few minutes and then took it out. She served it on two plates: one for her and one for Professor Oak. Delia smiled as she gave Professor Oak his. He had set the table for the two of them. When Delia placed the plates on the table, she noticed a note in Richard's hand writing. Curious, she picked it up and read what it said:
"Professor Oak, Delia, I had a phone call from my wife and she needs me back at home, the note you requested is on the table on your desk.
I tried looking for you to tell you however, you both appeared busy with Bellossom, so I decided not to interrupt. Will see you guys later, good night! - Richard"
The writing was messy, but readable. "Did you read this, Sam?" Delia asked as she passed the note to him. "Yes, I had a quick glance at it while you put our dinner in the microwave. Hopefully things are okay at home, his wife is about to have a baby!" Professor Oak answered, smiling to her.
"Aww, that sounds sweet! They'd make great parents!" Delia exclaimed happily. "I must congratulate him when I next see him" she added. 'Now that Richard has left, it almost feels like Sam and I are on a date,' Delia thought as she sat down to eat her meal. 'No, no! Delia, you can't think that, he's your teacher and your boss, not to mention family friend. He is 39 and you are currently 17 turning 18 in a few months... Well, age doesn't really matter when it comes to love...' Delia snapped out of her thoughts, when she heard the Professor's voice.
"How did you, Caroline and Norman enjoy your weekend at the carnival?" Professor Oak asked before putting a forkful of lasagna in his mouth. Last weekend, Delia went to the carnival with Norman and Caroline.
"It was great. Until I got my fortune told," Delia replied as she began to eat her meal.
"Really? I hope your future is bright; you certainly deserve it. I remember when I was ten years old, I met a Celebi who appeared to be in danger. It was trying to escape from this guy who wanted to sell Pokémon so I tried saving it. Somehow, the Celebi managed to send us forty years into the future, where I met a young boy named Ash Ketchum. He was traveling with his friends: Misty and Brock. Ash had a Pikachu on his shoulder and he was a nice boy," Professor Oak said before proceeding to tell her all about his adventures with Celebi. "Ash and I became fast friends and he helped me get back to my own time with Celebi" he added.
"I'm glad Ash was able to help you out. He sounds like a lovely boy. His parents would be proud of him" Delia smiled, trying to imagine what Ash and his friends would look like. "Honestly, I think the fortune teller is wrong from what she told me" Delia said as she swallowed a mouthful of food.
"Really? What did she tell you?" Professor Oak asked. 'You were proud of him. Delia, we both were' he added in his thoughts, wishing he could say it aloud.
"She said I wouldn't become a Pokémon trainer or a model," Delia started saying, taking another mouthful of food. She paused for a moment to remember exactly what she said. "She said my future will change in the way I don't expect it to be and wouldn't change it for the world. She informed me that I will be a mother and will be married to the child's father. She never said who my husband or child will be though I am curious to meet them. She mentioned that Caroline and Norman will leave for the Hoenn Region and have children of their own, who will eventually meet my son and travel Hoenn with them. That's all I can remember," Delia finished. "To be honest, I wish she told me who they were; if I knew then I would be happy, but in a way, its best for me not to know and let nature decide on the future for me. It would be boring if I knew who they were going to be, however, it will be worth the wait! I'd most likely endlessly looking for my future husband if I knew his name!" Delia finished as she looked at him.
"Your son and husband sound like they would be lovely people, and lucky to have you in their lives," Professor Oak commented. He secretly wondered if the fortune teller was referring to him and Ash as Delia's family. Remembering that Ash had told him that the professor and his mum are married.
"Thank you, Sam. What was it like being sent forty years into the future?" Delia asked, curious to know all about Professor Oak's adventure. Professor Oak told her everything (except the conversations he and Ash about Delia, him and Ash being family).
Delia listened in interest wishing she were there to see it all. "It sounds like you had quite an adventure, Sam. I wonder what Ash and his friends are doing now, maybe they're married?" she said.
'Ash isn't born yet, Dee' Professor Oak thought, wanting to say it aloud but at the same time, he didn't want to scare her. He found it interesting though, that he got to meet his own son before he was born. He didn't want to tell Delia until the timing was right.
After eating their meal, Delia volunteered to wash the dishes while Professor Oak went to find the note that came from Bellossom's previous owner. He found it where Richard had put it and went to the kitchen again where Delia was just drying a plate. "Found it, Dee. This is what it says: To whoever finds me, I am a useless Pokémon who couldn't win a single battle, leave me alone the way I am and don't bother caring about me. My trainer and abandoned me, because I wasn't strong enough!" Professor Oak finished reading it and shook his head.
"That trainer sounds like they don't really care for Pokémon. Sadly they didn't sign a name so we can't find out who Bellossom once belonged to. If Bellossom can speak the same language as we can, I am sure she would tell us," Professor Oak continued and sighed.
"Sam," Delia looked at him in concern and placed the now dry plate on the counter to be put away. She placed her hand gently on his left shoulder and blushed. "I am sure things will work out well. We had this happen once before, remember, but with an Eevee. Anyway, it getting late," she glanced at the clock which showed 9:50pm.
"Mhm, you're right. I'd better get you home - and I'll call you in the morning to let you know how she's doing," Professor Oak smiled. Delia nodded.
After taking Delia home; the professor checked upon Bellossom, who was fast asleep resting comfortably. The next morning, he fed the Bellossom Leppa Berries and the Pokémon appeared to be in full spirits once more. He gave Officer Jenny a call to inform her of what happened to the grass type Pokémon - the police officer told him that she'd collect the Bellossom to see if anyone recognized her - he also told Jenny about the note that came with the Pokémon. Officer Jenny had planned to pick the Pokémon up that afternoon when she was free from her current duties.
When he finished his conversation to Officer Jenny, he gave Delia a ring to let her know the situation - however, Delia was out with Caroline and Norman so he told Delia's father instead. After Officer Jenny took Bellossom and the note for evidence, the professor was finally able to contact Delia and let her know what happened and informed her that the Pokémon was now in safe hands, much to her relief.
About a week later, Daniel had been bumped up to the Intermediate Pokémon Studies II class and a new guy showed up; almost as if taking Daniel's place. "I'm sorry I'm late Professor Oak, but I'm Liam; Liam Taylor. I was supposed to show up earlier this semester, but my family and I went on a holiday of a lifetime in Johto and I didn't want to miss that for the world," the teen now known as Liam introduced himself. He had short, messy black hair and sapphire eyes. He wore a pair of baggy jeans, a white shirt, a pair of sneakers and a pair of grey finger-less gloves. At once, almost every girl in the class turned their attention to Liam and sighed dreamily. Even Delia was interested in him, despite the fact she preferred studying and helping Professor Oak in the lab.
"Welcome, Liam! I hope you feel right at home; I'll introduce you to everyone," Professor Oak said with a smile and began telling Liam all the names of the other students.
Liam was a transfer student from the Orange Islands and had been taking the class with one of Professor Oak's co-workers who moved there. "I heard that you have top students in your class, too, Professor Oak," Liam said, looking at him. "Yes, I do. Spencer, Delia and a few others are my top students. They've worked hard and never complained. I'm sure they'll be very successful in their futures," Professor Oak said proudly as he looked at his top two. At the compliment, Spencer's cheeks got tinted pink. He liked compliments, but something about the way Professor Oak said them would make him feel that way. Delia turned slightly (briefly meeting the Professor's gaze) to give Spencer a warm smile.
"Delia? Wow you really do have a cute name!" Liam left Professor Oak's side when his eyes met Delia's. He smiled and sat on her desk and produced a rose from nowhere. "Are you single?"
"Thank you and yes I am. Why?" Delia figured he'd be interested in asking her out, just like Daniel had done however, the young woman felt like she wasn't ready for that. She watched as Liam gave her the rose. Delia accepted it - to be polite, she wasn't sure about Liam as she just met him.
"I'll ask you later, Professor Oak's watching and I think he may be jealous," Liam whispered and left to go to his desk. Delia giggled and placed the rose inside her desk, hoping to remember to take that home later.
When lunchtime came, everyone left the classroom, except for Professor Oak and Delia of course. Delia gave Professor Oak lunch she made for him as she enjoyed making meals and always had extra one made up just for him.
"Thank you for lunch, Delia. Honestly, I'm lucky to have you as one of my students and long-time friend. You always seem to look out for me," Professor Oak said with a smile, making Delia blush.
"You're welcome, Sam. I'm going to find Caroline and Norman," Delia said with her smile turning into a grin. She then left the classroom to find her friends. On her way, she ran into Liam; literally. Neither teen fell over, so it was okay there. "Oh, Liam. I'm sorry, I didn't see you there," Delia apologized, noticing his phone had fallen out of his hand and onto the floor. Liam quickly picked it up and inspected it to see if it was broken.
Liam had been surprised that Delia was apologizing. "That's fine. I've dropped this thing heaps of times and it still works," he said, adding a chuckle, referring to him dropping his mobile. Delia was relieved to hear that it didn't break. "Do you have one?" Liam asked, deciding to clean the phone's screen with the bottom part of his shirt as it was covered in his finger prints. He was hoping to get her number so he can text her and call her whenever he wanted to.
"No, I don't. I don't see the need for one," Delia replied as she watched him put the phone in his trouser pocket. "That reminds me, earlier I mentioned I wanted to ask you something, Delia. Will you go out with me?" Liam asked, smiling as he looked at her, hoping she'd accept.
Delia sweat dropped. "We only met about an hour ago, Liam," she said. She wasn't exaggerating. It hadn't been a full hour, hinting that she didn't want to accept him as a boyfriend just yet.
"I know, but I want to get to know you better. When I met you, I felt like you and I have known each other for eternity!" Liam told her, smiling. "So, will you?"
"No, sorry Liam, I'm not ready for dating yet;" Delia answered, rejecting him as polite as she could. "I recently broke up with my ex and I'm still trying to get over him," she added.
"Oh, okay... well, er... I'll see you later then, gotta go!" Liam stammered then ran off. He was obviously not used to being rejected - being a popular guy in his previous school and loved by many girls he thought he could catch Delia's attention. Delia sighed in a relief once he was out of her sight, and noticed Caroline walking with Norman hand in hand towards her.
"Hi guys!" Delia exclaimed as she ran up to her two friends, hugging Caroline and smiling at Norman.
"Hey, Delia, were you just talking to your cute classmate?" Caroline asked, returning the hug. Norman looked annoyed at the thought of Caroline calling Liam cute. Norman let that slide; he had to admit, Liam looked rather sharp and it was in these times that you weren't seeing much of that.
Delia nodded. "Yes, and he asked me out but I declined."
"Really? Why?" Norman asked, curious. He put his arm around Caroline. Delia bit her lip.
"I don't feel ready to date another guy yet" Delia replied with a sigh. Now Norman knew why his friend was upset. "Besides, I want to focus on my studies"
"I didn't mean to upset you, Delia," Norman said. "To be quite honest, I was gonna call Augustine up later today and see if he'd go to the Petalburg Silver Conference with Spencer and I next year in May, as Caroline isn't interested in that sort of thing. She's more into contests."
"The conference sounds fun! I'd love to join in, are you sure your not interested, Caroline?" Delia asked.
"If your coming, Dee, I'll go but as Norman said, I have no interest in them though love Pokémon Contests and I want to try them out when we move to Hoenn" Caroline answered with a smile.
"You're welcome to join, Delia if you're available" Norman said with a grin.
Delia thanked him as she walked next to Caroline. Caroline smiled to her. "Norman stayed over at my place for dinner last night, and when we were alone, we decided to come up with names for our future children, though we both agreed not to have any until we're married."
"Really? What do you plan to name your children?" Delia wondered, sounding excited. "I bet they'll be cute."
"We've decided that we'll name our daughter May, and our son Max. They sound so nice together." Norman answered.
"Aw, May and Max sound like sweet names. I've only recently started liking the name Ash. If I ever had a son, I'd call him that." Delia smiled, remembering what Professor Oak had told her, she loved that name ever since Professor Oak mentioned it. "I'd love for our children to meet someday!" she added.
"I'm sure they'll meet someday, Dee!" Norman said with a smile. Caroline nodded in agreement.
A month flew by and Delia stayed at the top of the class (with Spencer for a tie) and had her close friendship with Professor Oak.
Madison and Liam hatched a plan to make Delia look bad - Madison hated that she was a perfect straight A student and was very popular, the plan was for Liam to pretend to become Delia's boyfriend and for Madison to catch Delia with Liam. Madison wanted to humiliate Delia and make her feel horrible. Madison and Liam chose to cheat their way through the university studies instead of putting time and effort in their work. As part of the plan, Liam would flirt with Delia whenever he had the chance to be alone with her, making Delia eventually get over Augustine and fall for Liam while still crushing on Professor Oak.
One day, Liam and Delia walked into the gardens together at recess time, admiring the flowers and plants. Several Butterfrees flew by making the scenery perfect for Liam's plan to work.
"Beautiful" Delia gushed admiring the Butterfree and garden.
"Not as beautiful as you are, Delia. Look, Delia, there's something I've been wanting to tell and ask you for a while now" Liam said as he looked around to ensure they were the only two in the garden - they were. 'Now for the plan' Liam thought.
"Hm? What is it, Liam?" Delia asked curiously.
"Your the most beautiful girl I've ever met. I'm so grateful to have gotten the chance to know you, Delia and, oh heck with it! I love you, Delia and want to know, will you be my girlfriend?" Liam said. At once, he felt guilty, because all this was a lie, he didn't have feelings for Delia at all and he is dating Madison, but he had to go on with his plans to impress his girlfriend, Madison.
A gust of wind swept through after Liam asked Delia to be his girlfriend. Delia looked at him stunned with his confession. Delia wondered if Liam could be the one that the fortune teller would be talking about, but something in her mind told her not to go with Liam. "I'm sorry, Liam, but no. I mean, your a really nice guy and lots of people like you, I just don't see you that way" Delia told him, feeling anxious as she spoke. 'My heart longs for Sam's though I haven't told him yet' she thought.
"What?! Are you kidding me? After all this? You rejected me? Feh, whatever, your loss!" Liam pushed Delia onto the ground and stormed off angrily.
Delia picked herself up, frowning as she did. She checked to see if she was okay and found that her knees were grazed as were her her hands, they stung a bit but she ignored the pain, she planned to tell Professor Oak what happened. Delia dusted herself then went to class. She decided to avoid Liam as much as she could after that.
Soon university was over for the day and as usual, Professor Oak picked Delia up to take her home. She decided to wait until they got into his car to tell him what happened before they drove back to their homes.
"He did what?" Professor Oak angrily yelled after Delia told him what had happened. "I wish I were there, Dee! I would've dragged that boy to the office as soon as possible. He didn't hurt you, did he?" he asked gently, wishing he was there to protect her instead of being in a meeting.
"I grazed my hands and knees after he pushed me to the ground, but other then that, I'm fine, Sam" Delia showed him.
'Ash was right about this,' Professor Oak thought, remembering when Ash had told him that his mum rejected a guy called Liam who roughly pushed her to the ground. Ash himself was angry about it too when she had told him, when he and Ash were talking about their families.
"Oh, Dee, I'm sorry he hurt you. I'm going to talk to Liam tomorrow. The university doesn't tolerate behavior like this" Professor Oak said then turned the car on, he drove out of the university car park and started making their way back home.
Delia nodded, and decided to change topic, for some reason, Ash came to her mind. "What else did you do when you met Ash, Sam? Do I know him?"
"After rescuing Celebi, we talked non stop about our families, life dreams and other goals. That's a tricky question to answer, Dee. You don't know him yet, but you'll meet him soon!" Professor Oak answered, not wanting to give too much away yet.
To be continued...
(refreshed on the 2/4/2021)