Chapter 25
Ash sunk further into the warm water of his bath, leaning his head back against the smooth ceramic. It wasn't until he eased himself into the tub of Brock's upstairs bathroom that Ash realized how tired he was. He had showered every night during the past three months, but this bath felt so much more soothing, as if the exhaustion from the past several weeks were being washed away. Was it because the tension and pressure to succeed in his first match no longer applied? It had to be. He felt loose and relaxed.
Pikachu surfaced in the water, only a portion of his head visible as he observed Ash. There was a glint in his eyes that Ash recognized, causing the young man to straighten up at the sight of it. He was too late though, Pikachu swirled in the water, and Ash could only deadpan after his face had been doused.
"Ugh, Pikachu!" Ash exclaimed as he wiped the water from his face. Pikachu snickered at the sight of his now droopy hair, earning a narrow stare from Ash, but he was too lazy to retaliate. Leaning back again, Ash took a deep breath and chose to ignore Pikachu as his partner resurfaced on the other side of the tub, climbing up onto the edge.
Observing Pikachu as he shook his fur, Ash couldn't help but recall a similar sight with the Stun Spore in their battle not even two hours ago. A grin formed on his face as the memories flashed in his mind. Pikachu darting around the field as Roselia battled back with her Mega Drain whips was a sight to behold. The thought of the referee declaring them the winner sent chills down his back, and the roar of the audience was the cherry on top.
He could hardly believe that he had just won his first match at the Hidden Cove. No matter how many times he replayed it in his mind, it was still difficult to grasp. He was finally moving forward!
Ash raised his head, catching the scent of something delicious in the air.
Barbeque!
He licked his lips, and the rest of his time in the bath became an afterthought. His stomach was now at the top of his priority list!
Once he was cleaned off and fully dressed in the t-shirt and jeans Brock had provided, Ash and Pikachu darted downstairs, where they could hear the commotion loud and clear. Approaching the open door that led out onto the back porch, Ash and Pikachu had a full view of the backyard and everyone that occupied it. It ranged from Brock's family to his closest friends and family, but it was the littlest person of all that was the first to notice his entry.
"Ashy!" Macy exclaimed as she approached, arms outstretched. He kneeled down and scooped her up in his arms, beaming at her. "Did-ja win?"
"Did I?" Ash asked her in return as he looked up in thought. "O'course I did!"
"I knew it! Ashy's the best!" She declared as a group of Valerie, Tierno and Shauna joined them on the porch.
"Well, I'll take it you have some good news?" Valerie asked with a smile as Ash set Macy back down on her feet so that she could address Pikachu.
"Sure do!" Ash said as he struck a pose, topped off with a V for victory! "You can put down one in the win column!"
"Ha-ha! I knew you had it in you!" Tierno exclaimed as he hooked his arm around Ash's neck, pulling his friend down in a headlock. "I just can't believe you didn't invite me to come to see it in person. I didn't even know you had a professional match until Brock sent me that text earlier."
Guilt tinged Ash's expression momentarily as he glanced up at Tierno. He had become so absorbed in his training during the last month that the thought of telling his friends didn't even occur to him. And he was shocked that Brock had kept the secret up until this point.
"Ah, I'm sorry Tierno. I was caught up in myself trying to get ready for it," Ash apologized as Tierno released him. "I'll make it up to you. How about I getcha tickets to my match next weekend?"
"That sounds good in my book!" Tierno declared, and they shook on it.
"Hey 'grill-master!' You're needed at your station!" Flint barked from across the yard, and Tierno perked up. It was then that Ash noticed Tierno was wearing a large apron that stated: Kiss the Grill-Master. He stifled at a laugh and watched as Tierno left them to join Flint at the grill.
"WOW!" Two voices thrilled together. Billy and Tilly came rushing up onto the porch where they crowded around Pikachu with Macy. "What's this one?!"
Their curiosity was heartwarming, and Ash fought to hold in a smile as Macy introduced Pikachu to them. Billy and Tilly were absolutely enthralled with Pikachu, smothering him as they patted his head and groomed his fur. Pikachu was loving all of the extra attention he was getting as they took him off into the yard for more room to play.
"Remind me to thank Pikachu later," Valerie said with a giggle to Ash. When he gave her a look of intrigue, she went on to explain. "Spritzee isn't used to being around kids. She didn't really like how Brock's siblings were handling her."
Ash took a glance around the yard in search of the pink Pokemon and found her perched on the shoulder of Brock's mother, Lola. Ash could just imagine the woman fiercely protecting Spritzee from her hyperactive twins.
"To be honest, I'm still a little shocked that Brock's parents let us bring out Pokemon into their home," Valerie admitted as her gaze shifted from Flint, who was working the grill with Tierno, to Lola, who was lounging on a lawn chair with Spritzee. "Although what really surprised me was how quick Brock's mom took a liking to Spritzee."
"Really?" He exclaimed, brows raised and Valerie gave him a nod to confirm.
"Yup, she already labeled Spritzee as her," Valerie stopped to snicker, then she raised her hands to make air quotes. "'Golden child.'"
Ash laughed out loud, picturing Brock's dumbfounded reaction to such a statement.
"Anyway, I'm really happy for you, Ash." Valerie said sweetly, and with that she went off, leaving Ash and Shauna to talk amongst themselves.
"So, you really did it? You won your big match?" She asked him curiously as they turned their backs to the yard and leaned against the banister of the porch.
"You know it," Ash replied cheekily before he looked up at the sky that stretched out over them. It was pasted with orange glows, signaling the approach of the final night of the year. Ash's expression became more somber as he seemed to relax, and Shauna took note of this. "For a while, I was wondering if I'd ever make it to this point. Now that I did it's…it's hard to really believe this happened."
Shauna gave him a faint smile and placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Well, ya did it," She stated. "And you busted your butt to do it. So just chill out for tonight."
"Yeah, I'm with you on that." Ash noted with a nod.
"Good. When you wake up tomorrow, it'll be easier to accept it," Shauna said, and she opened her mouth to continue, but uncertainty touched her on her shoulders causing her to hesitate. She glanced out at the yard again, her eyes going straight to Serena, who was chatting with Miette by the stereo system. With a deep breath, Shauna pushed her doubts aside and went on. "And if you still can't believe it, do me a favor and believe this didn't happen."
Ash furrowed his brow, but before he could even direct his questioning glance at Shauna, he felt her lips against his cheek. It was quick, no more than a fraction of a second, and he needed a moment to process it. His cheeks turned pink as he struggled to word a question.
"Wha-Sh…" Ash could only bumble out his shock as Shauna stuck out her tongue playfully. She then turned on her heels and left him, walking with a skip in her step. With her back turned to Ash, she hid a blush of her own, but her gaze drifted to the two people that had seen the small kiss she had left Ash with.
Miette and Serena.
"Alright, what was that Shauna?" Miette exclaimed as she, Serena and Shauna stepped into the kitchen, where they could speak with some privacy. Shauna sat at the table across from Serena, and Miette was looming over Shauna as if to interrogate her.
"What was what?" She asked innocently, and Miette rolled her eyes.
"Don't play that game, you know what I'm talking about." Miette retorted as she pointed a finger at Shauna exaggeratedly. Shauna narrowed her eyes but maintained her playful demeanor.
"Is this really any of your business, Miette?" Shauna inquired, but Miette responded by dropping her hand on the table. Shauna winced but held a smile.
"I'm making it my business." Miette proclaimed, earning a snicker from the brunette.
"That's so like you," Shauna noted before she shifted her gaze to Serena, who had been silent since they entered the kitchen. "I'm waiting for you to say something."
Serena observed her friend, her face lacking in expression.
"I mean, do you have a problem with that kiss?" Shauna asked Serena, and suddenly all eyes were on her. Serena pursed her lips and took a deep breath through her nostrils.
"Well, what am I supposed to say?" Serena asked them. "He was dating Dawn for a while. It's not my place to tell him he can't see someone else. Nor is my place tell you," She focused on Shauna with what felt like a chilly glare, but her face held no sort of disdain for her friend. "That you can't kiss him…no matter how much I hate it."
"Why are being so freaking noble?" Miette muttered with a small laugh of disbelief. "You can't really be okay with this?"
Serena shot her a look, and there was a brief pause as they shared some unspoken communication. Then Miette bit down on her lower lip with a groan of irritation.
"Fine then!" Miette turned back to Shauna to pose a question. "Answer this for me, why?"
"Why what?" Shauna asked, and Miette's stare became narrow causing Shauna to drop the façade. "The kiss, right…well…I was happy for him, and I wanted to show it."
"So then, was it just a kiss? Or was there more to it?" Miette pressed, and Shauna looked up in thought.
"I think that…I got a chance to see exactly what Serena, and Dawn, fell in love with." Shauna noted, causing both her friends to raise their brows. "I always thought of him as a kid, but there's more to him than I gave him credit for. I almost feel stupid now for thinking he was too young for me. In fact, I wish I had tried to look at him, you know, with an open mind from the beginning. I would've noticed how amazing he is a lot sooner."
Shauna and Serena shared a glance, a hint of a smile on their faces.
"It's just like best friends to fall for the same guy." Serena mumbled out, and Miette pinched her nose with a sigh.
"Then I guess I have no choice but to join the club." Miette stated, causing Shauna to laugh out loud.
"The more the merrier. A little competition might keep things interesting." Shauna said with a sly grin before she stole a glance at Serena.
With this, she caught a glimpse of agitation on Serena's expression. Her jaw was tight, and she bit down on her lower lip ever so slightly. No matter how much Serena might pretend this conversation wasn't bothering her, Shauna could imagine that it must have been eating away at her insides.
"But I will say this, I know that Serena had her eyes on him first. And I'll respect that." Shauna stated, giving Serena a wink. "But I'm going make a pact with him. If, for whatever reason, we're still single at forty, we're gonna get married."
Silence ensued as her friends stared at her, dumbfounded.
"Are you aware of how ridiculous you sound right now?" Miette asked her, earning a laugh from Shauna.
"I'm totally fine with that, because you said the same thing when Serena said she was going to start dating Ash." Shauna pointed out, and Miette faltered. She had indeed said those exact words to Serena almost two years ago. But in her defense, it did seem ridiculous for Serena to date a junior in high school when she was nineteen!
"Alright then, what if I make the same pact with him, but for when we're thirty-five?" Miette asked, sporting a smug grin.
"I'll propose when we're thirty then!" Shauna hollered back.
"I'll propose to Ash right now then!" Miette declared, and Serena palmed her forehead.
"Uh…" Brock had walked in when the proposals began, and he found himself smirking at the girls.
"Don't get any crazy ideas, Brock!" Miette said vehemently, recognizing the look in his eyes. Trouble was sure to follow if they didn't nip this in the bud.
"I don't have any ideas," Brock replied. "But now I know Tierno isn't going crazy. Ash really does get all the girls."
"He did not get all of us!" Miette barked as she took a threatening step toward Brock. Recognizing the danger of an aggravated Miette, Brock turned to leave but she darted off to pursue.
Shauna and Serena laughed together. Once their laughter cooled off, Shauna felt the need to assure Serena that she had no intention of trying to capture Ash.
"But earlier you said that you-," Serena began.
"I know what I said." Shauna interjected, and the night she had been caught drinking by Ash came back to her with clarity, especially one phrase in particular.
"I just feel awful knowing that I hurt someone else chasing this dream I have."
"I wouldn't want to put him through that again," Shauna explained softly. "So, don't think of me as any sort of threat. You and Ash have been amazing friends for me this past month. I couldn't do anything to hurt you guys."
Once again, the back entrance to the kitchen was opened, this time by Tierno.
"Hey, are you guys going to stay in here all night? The party is just getting started!" Tierno said with a gesture for them to join everyone outside. The center of the yard had become the dance floor as everyone was rocking to the music.
"Come on," Shauna stated as she jumped to her feet. "Let's forget all the heavy stuff and have a good time tonight."
Serena agreed wholeheartedly, and they returned to the yard.
Stationed by the stereo system, Trevor was happy to take on the duty of DJ for the night. His laptop held a six-hour playlist function as their source of music, filled with a variety of songs, including a few requests from each of his friends. Brock had been the first one to make a request, calling for everyone to vacate the dance floor.
"Alright people, I want the Jive Steppers on the floor!" Brock declared as he pointed at each of his crew members.
"Oh god, don't tell me we're actually keeping that name." Miette groaned as the group of five joined their captain.
"Yeah, it's the only thing we've got right now. Come up with a better one and I'll be happy to change it." Brock replied to her.
"Not cool, man!" Tierno exclaimed in defense.
"What's the deal Brock, what are we doing?" Serena asked curiously. Brock had mentioned his desire to do a routine for his family, but he had never specified what exactly they would do.
"I thought it'd be nice to give Shauna's routine a go." He replied, and Shauna's eyes became wide.
"We've only done it together, like, twice." She pointed out, and Brock shrugged his shoulders.
"So? It's not like this performance counts or anything." Brock responded, and Shauna felt her shoulders sag.
"Yeah, it'll be fine Shauna." Serena assured her, but Shauna still felt conflicted.
Perhaps because this was the first routine for which she was responsible for all of the choreography. Shauna had only shown it to the rest of the group two weeks ago, so they had hardly practiced it, and a part of her wanted everything to be perfect before this routine was unveiled.
But at the same time, everyone was here to have a good time. There was no one here who expected perfection from them. And she couldn't expect that from them either.
"Alright." She said with a nod to the group, and Brock clapped audibly to get everyone's attention. He pointed a finger at Trevor, a signal to begin their track. The clap of hands marked the beginning of the song, and Brock began to raise his hands as a motion for everyone to clap along.
Ash laughed at his friend and his exuberance. According to Brock, his family had seen videos of him performing and practicing with the crew, but this was the first live performance that they would see. Of course, Brock was going to show out.
As the beat intensified, the group of five took their places on the dance floor in a V formation with Shauna at the forefront. Each of them grooved in place to stay loose, and then Shauna gave them a countdown. Ash raised his brow as the routine began, already spotting a noticeable difference in style.
Serena had previously been responsible for most of the choreography that they did, and her work had always been very fluid and ballet-like. Shauna's style went contrary to her friend, lots of sharp, quick movements that you'd find the street performers using. Their footwork was fast, something that played to Miette and Brock's strengths, and their hands were constantly in motion. They commanded everyone's attention, earning some exclamations of awe from their audience.
Even though they made mistakes, as performers they smiled through it. As much as Ash wanted to focus on Shauna, because this was her routine, his eyes kept drifting to Serena beside her. It was hard to ignore her as she danced. Not that the rest of the group couldn't hold his attention, it was just that Serena was exceptionally captivating as she danced. The way her sundress moved as she twirled, the way she'd laugh with her hair in her face. Without saying a word to him, she demanded that his eyes remain on her.
The applause broke Ash out his thoughts as their performance came to an end, and the crew shared a group hug to praise Shauna for her work. It was outstanding, and they couldn't wait to use this in the future.
"Now it's my turn, Trevor!" Shauna hollered to the ginger-haired young man. "Everybody find a partner!"
As the dance floor became crowded again, Serena felt a pair of hands against her back pushing her forward. Glancing over her shoulder, she saw that it was Shauna, and she was being moved straight toward Ash!
"Shauna!" Serena exclaimed before she was shoved into the young man. Stumbling, Serena was unable to correct herself before she collided with Ash.
"Whoa, are you okay there?" He asked, and Serena felt her cheeks redden as she leaned against him. He had hardly budged from the contact, and he had an arm around her waist to keep her from going anywhere.
"…Yeah." Serena muttered as she looked back in Shauna's direction, but she was long gone already. And, right on cue, the music began, hosting a tempo that Ash and Serena were very familiar with. One of the finest tango songs produced in Hoenn.
"So that's why she wanted us to find partners," Ash noted as he glanced down at Serena, and he stifled a laugh. "So, I guess it's no coincidence that you're with me now."
"Not if I have anything to say about it," Serena replied as she fixed her bangs, tucking them behind her ears. Then she posed the obvious question. "So, partners?"
"Well, I don't see why not." He said, offering her a hand. As she accepted this and placed her hand in his, Serena was surprised at how hard Ash's hands had become. He had always had such delicate hands that befit an artist, but now his hands were beginning to resemble that of someone who spent half their day in the dirt. And then when they came together, Serena felt as if Ash had gotten bigger. And she knew her mind wasn't playing tricks on her! Her forehead always used to hit his chin when they danced, but now his chin was out of range. He had grown!
Looking up at Ash, Serena couldn't help but study him intently, searching for new details that she had missed. An image of the Ash she had met for the first time two years ago flashed in her mind. He was sixteen, baby faced and pure to a fault. The young man in front of her now had indeed grown up, not just physically, but as a person that aspired to be all that he could be.
Serena felt her chest tighten as she looked down. Even though Ash was younger than her, and in a far less forgiving situation, he was still taking charge of his own life. Serena was the adult between the two of them due to technicalities, but Ash was the one who had grown up.
These Pokemon that he loved so much, they were clearly making him a better person. Ash's growth was phenomenal, and this realization frightened her. Ash was growing up faster than she was, and at the rate he was moving, it wouldn't be long before Pokemon took him to a faraway place.
A place that she couldn't go.
As the evening turned to night, the dancing waned and conversation became the predominant source of entertainment. The scent of charcoal had long since dissipated now that everyone had eaten their fill, and Lola went up on the porch to announce that dessert would be serviced in the kitchen.
With all of the children present, and Ash, there was quite a bit of commotion as the doorway into the kitchen became cluttered with bodies contesting to get in first. Ultimately, Ash found himself getting booted out of the kitchen as all of the kids were served first. Lola had gone as far as to ask for his age to make her point before she threw him out, promising him that there was plenty to go around. Ash stood out on the porch, leaning on the banister to observe the occasion. The sun had set, and the hanging lights had been turned on to keep the backyard lit for everyone.
Shauna, Miette, and Brock were still dancing, going over the steps for Shauna's routine together to pass time until they could be served. Valerie was chatting quietly with Trevor and Tierno, and Spritzee was mounted on Tierno's shoulder as she listened intently to their conversation. And Serena was…coming up onto the porch with Pikachu, who climbed up onto the banister.
"Pika-pi?" Pikachu asked him, and Ash raised a hand to pat Pikachu on the head.
"I'm fine Pikachu," He replied before leering into the kitchen. "Lola made some of her special cheesecake and I wanted you to try it. I'm hoping those little monsters in there don't get all of it before I get you a slice."
"Pi?" Pikachu questioned, scratching at the back of his head.
"You've never had cheesecake before, but I'm telling you, Lola makes the best cheesecake out there." Ash explained to his partner.
"He's not kidding Pikachu. It's to die for." Serena added, and Ash gave a nod of agreement. Pikachu merely tilted his head and decided to trust Ash's word on the matter. A few minutes later, the last of the kids came out with their dessert plates, praising the ice cream and cake they had received. Lola then came up to the back door and called in everyone else, and of course, Ash and Pikachu were first in line.
Lola and Flint stood together at the kitchen table, ready to dish out an array of sumptuous sweets for everyone. Approaching them with their plate, Ash and Pikachu looked up and down the table hungrily.
"So, what am I getting you, Ash?" Lola asked him, smiling faintly at the matching expressions of Ash and Pikachu.
"Oh uh…hold on," Ash said to her, realizing that in the past few hours he had failed to properly introduce Pikachu to Brock's parents. They had been kind enough to allow Pikachu into their household, so Ash owed them at least this much. "Lola, Flint, I don't think I've introduced Pikachu to you guys yet. Pikachu, this is Lola and Flint, their Brock's parents."
"Pika!" Pikachu declared, throwing a little salute toward them.
"I've been watching this little guy. He's been running around with Billy and Tilly all night." Flint commented with a grin. "It's not easy keeping those two entertained."
Pikachu laughed at this. He had actually enjoyed how much energy the two of them had. Macy and Casey weren't quite as playful as the twins, so it was nice for a change of pace.
"I thought I'd have Pikachu try your cheesecake," Ash explained to Lola as she began to cut him a slice. "I was telling him how amazing it is, but he's never had cheesecake before so he doesn't have anything to compare it to."
"Oh really, then I'd like to see your first taste, Pikachu." Lola noted as she took Ash's plate and slid in a fat slice for the two of them. She then gave him a plastic force and smiled, waiting for them to dig in. Ash held the cake close for Pikachu to take a closer look, observing the golden exterior of the cake that was whipped with light caramel topping. Sniffing at it, Pikachu's brightened considerably as he licked his lips.
Ash smirked, knowing that Pikachu was anxious to get a taste now. He cut into the cake with his fork to get a small piece, and raised it for Pikachu to eat.
Cutting into the cake with his fork, Ash took a small piece and raised it. Pikachu took in the mouthful, and all watching couldn't help but snicker as Pikachu furrowed his brow.
"Don't chew Pikachu, it melts in your mouth." Ash said with a snort. After a few moments Pikachu swallowed, and he looked toward Lola with starry eyes.
"Chuuuu! Pika-pi!" Pikachu declared proudly, giving Lola a thumbs up.
"Geez, you make it sound like we don't feed you at home." Ash muttered.
"Well, I'm glad you like it Pikachu." Lola said warmly.
Outside on the porch, Serena and Shauna were watching Ash and Pikachu through the glass door. Pikachu pointed down at the cake, so Ash lifted it closer to his partner who attempted to take a paw-ful of the cake, but he quickly discovered that cheesecake wasn't quite so friendly to touch.
"Not with your paws Pikachu." Ash said to his partner who looked down at his covered paw. Rather than eat it, Pikachu took it and smeared it against Ash's cheek, earning a shout of complaint from him. The small Pokemon only laughed at his expense, but the young ladies watching wore expressions of stoicism.
"By the looks on your face, I almost want to say you two are…jealous." A voice noted quietly. Their heads snapped to the side to discover that it was…Valerie. She watched Ash and Pikachu fondly with the kindest of smiles.
"Jealous…? No way." Shauna whispered back.
"Are you telling me you don't want to smear cake on his face?" Valerie asked in return, and Shauna snapped her mouth shut to suppress her response. Her cheeks reddened at the thought. Shauna swallowed her words and pouted, looking away from Ash, but Serena verbalized her thoughts.
"I do. And I am jealous," Serena admitted, her voice low. "I wish I could spend all afternoon with him the way Pikachu does. But…"
Shauna and Valerie each looked at her, and their hearts melted. There was no jealousy nor apathy within Serena's expression, going against her word.
Just acceptance.
Acceptance that her longing for Ash would likely go unanswered.
"But…I don't understand what it is about Pokemon that he loves so much." Serena said softly, and Valerie's expression hardened.
"Is it that you don't understand it…or you don't want to understand it?"
Serena's eyes widened at Valerie's question. It struck home in a manner similar to a statement from Ash during their argument two months ago.
It was a question of her character.
"There's much more to this than I think you understand, Serena," Valerie continued in a low voice. "Don't take anything at face value."
Serena looked toward Valerie, the thought of Valerie's little pink companion coming to mind. Of course, Valerie would take such a stance.
"But what is it?" Serena asked her. "What is it that I don't want to understand?"
"Talk to Ash." Valerie stated, and as if to reinforce her point, Spirtzee came fluttering down onto Valerie's shoulder. She spared them a smile before she went on her way, returning to the yard to converse with Trevor and Tierno.
There was silence between Shauna and Serena as they looked back to Ash. He and Pikachu had since loaded up a new plate with dessert, which they were devouring together. The sight of this caused Serena to heave out a sigh, and she posed her question to Shauna.
"Do you understand it, Shauna?" Serena asked her, and the brunette pursed her lips.
"Sort of." She replied. "I know that Valerie is right in that…there's more to it than I would've thought. Ash and Pikachu worked hard for this," Shauna paused, making a face as she fought with many words to verbalize her thoughts. "…they work hard for something they believe in. And I've learned that when someone is willing to work the way they do, it must be something worthwhile."
Serena looked at her friend cautiously, knowing full well what Shauna would conclude with.
"Valerie is right. Just talk to him."
At the heart of Lumiose City sat Prism Tower. The already popular attraction had been used as a staging ground for one of the biggest events of the year: the New Year's ball drop. But to reel in an even bigger audience than in past years, Aria would be performing during the celebration.
The audience gave the final countdown as the new year approached, watching as the well-lit ball reached the bottom of the pole atop Prism Tower. It was signal for so much to happen at once. The celebration reached its climax as fireworks ascended to the dark skies, lighting them in a brilliant array of colors. Confetti was tossed from above, showering the audience that toasted the occasion in various ways. A kiss with their significant other, or embracing their friends to welcome them to the new year.
Serena breathed out a sigh as she looked away from her phone screen. She had goosebumps on her arms, and this tingling sensation only intensified as Aria made her grand appearance on the stage in front of Prism Tower.
"Hello, Kalos!" She hollered cheerily, and the audience roared. "Are you ready to get the new year started off right!?"
The audience voiced their desire for a performance from the redhead, and she happily obliged. And what Serena witnessed from there was what she aspired to be. A performer who simply demanded your full attention. Her movements, her voice, everything about her just made you stare at her and only her. It was no wonder she was the Kalos Queen!
"What-cha lookin' at Serena?" A voice caused her head to snap upward, and she found Ash in front of her, leaning over to see what was on her phone. She didn't want any company; she had gone out of her way to take some distance from everyone. But seeing that it was Ash, she would accommodate him.
"I was looking at the ball drop in Kalos." She replied softly, moving over to make some space for him on the couch. "What are you doing here?"
"We didn't really get a chance to talk during our dance earlier. It's been a while since I got to sit down and talk with you, so I kinda wanted to catch up," Ash explained once he was seated next to her, and his attention became locked on her phone as he saw Aria on stage. "You said that's the ball drop right? Is it happening right now?"
"No silly, Kalos is like ten hours ahead of us," She pointed out with a laugh. "Have you ever seen a ball drop before?"
"Nope, never been to Kalos." Ash replied casually. This type of celebration was only done there, after all.
"Right, I'm sorry. I've been watching it every year since I left with my mom, so it just feels normal to me." Serena explained as she looked up thoughtfully.
"Oh yeah, how is your mom, by the way? I haven't seen her in ages."
"She's doing fine, you know…" Serena trailed off, lips pursed. "Same as ever, I guess."
Ash gave a snort at her response, recognizing it for what it was worth. He snickered a little, and this demanded her attention as she paused the video.
"What's so funny?" She questioned him with a leer.
"I just think it's funny how you and your mom are always at each other's throats," Ash commented. "It's cool that you guys aren't all…you know, like normal."
Serena made a face at his statement.
"Like normal?" She repeated with a gesture for him to elaborate.
"Well, I'm not doing a great job explaining it," Ash noted with a chuckle, leaning back into the couch. "I'm trying to say that the way you and your mom are around each other feels…like, raw."
"Raw?" She exclaimed with a puzzled expression.
"I know this isn't going to sound great, but when I say 'raw' I mean that you guys don't hold anything back," Ash paused for a moment, and his expression brightened as he found the words he wanted. "Like tough love!"
Serena creased her brow as she let this thought settle in her mind. Tough love defined their relationship perfectly. Positive or negative, nothing was left unsaid between Serena and her mother. And this brought a faint smile to Serena's face.
"That does sound like us." She admitted, and Ash nodded.
"Yeah, I was just saying that I think that's nice how open you two are with each other," Ash continued. "It feels real. But anyway, just tell her I said hi."
"Yeah, I'll do that for you." Serena said though she could imagine her mother wouldn't care much for a greeting from Ash. Briefly, they heard the backdoor open, and Ash heard Pikachu give thanks to someone for opening the door for him. Moments later Pikachu came into the living room, though his approached stopped as he saw that Ash was speaking with Serena.
"Pika," He said softly, taking a step back. "Pi-pika."
"It's not a big deal Pikachu," Ash commented before he looked to Serena. "He didn't mean to disturb us, but its no problem, right Serena?"
The question struck a nerve deep in Serena's heart as her gaze was transferred to Pikachu. His timing was…impeccable. Just when she thought she might have had some time with Ash to herself, of course, Pikachu would show up. And she could sense what direction the conversation was headed in if Pikachu remained. But as she looked back at Ash and his cheery expression, she pushed all of these thoughts aside.
"Of course not." She stated, donning an expression similar to Ash's. She proceeded the pat the small opening on the couch between herself and Ash as a spot for Pikachu to get comfortable. Pikachu hesitated as he observed them, a weary expression on his face, and Serena spent a moment wondering if Pikachu had somehow read her mind just moments ago.
"Pi. Pika-pika." Pikachu replied, shaking his head.
"Are you sure?" Ash asked him, and Pikachu nodded in reply. "If you say so. I'll open the door for you."
Ash got up from the couch, promising that he would return before he went with Pikachu to open the backdoor for him. Serena watched his back as he left, and Valerie's words earlier rung out in her mind.
"Talk to Ash."
It was such a simple approach, yet Serena was filled with apprehension at the thought of it. Deep down inside of her, there was a part of her that didn't want to have this discussion, for fear of what it would lead to. She and Ash had talked about this in the past; it was the reason they broke up in the first place. If they went down that road again, there was no telling what the collateral damage might be this time.
"Is it that you don't understand it…or you don't want to understand it?"
Serena began to chew on her lower lip. She knew Valerie was right, no matter how much she wanted to deny it.
Serena didn't want to understand Ash's fascination with Pokemon.
Pokemon were the reason she and her mother had left Kalos.
They were the reason her parents broke up.
They were responsible for taking her father's life.
And what Serena feared most was exactly what was taking place in Ash.
Pokemon were going to take him from her.
"Serena?"
She blinked and found Ash seated next to her, concern written all over his face.
"Are you okay?" Ash asked her, and he placed his hand on top of hers.
"Tell me again," She began. "Tell me why you love Pokemon so much?"
Ash furrowed his brow at her sudden question. It was completely different from their last subject, but it was one that he welcomed.
"Well…" Ash paused, using this time to gather his thoughts. Pokemon was something he could talk about for hours with the various types of Pokemon and ways to train them. But explaining why he loved Pokemon was difficult. "I don't know. It's kind of hard to put it into words. Can you tell me what it is you love about dancing?"
Serena had her answer immediately.
"Dancing does a whole lot for me. It's a way to relieve stress from a long day. A creative outlet to express myself and…" Her cheeks became tinged with pink as she went into a confession. "When I dance with someone else, it's a way for me to feel connected with that person."
The last point really struck home with Ash as a smile formed on his face. That was exactly what he was looking for!
"That's why I love Pokemon." He stated. "It's the personal connection or bond that you can form with a Pokemon. Almost like a best friend, but even tighter than that if you know what I mean. Like, Brock is my best friend but Pikachu is…my brother."
Serena stared into his eyes, admiring the innocence and purity that filled them. It was such an honest, heartwarming expression, that even as she stared at her fears taking shape, she only could only smile and look away.
She didn't want to understand…but she did.
"I don't know if that made a lot of sense Serena, but um, I do know a way that you can see it for yourself." Ash continued. "Pikachu and I have another match at the Hidden Cove next Saturday. Tierno is coming so you're free to join us if you want to."
There was an ominous sensation about this that made her chest tight. It was like every fiber of her being wanted to reject her offer, but seeing Ash's smile made her go against these inclinations. She silenced her thoughts and opened her mouth.
"Yeah. I'll come."
Ash beamed at her before they heard the backdoor open once again.
"Ash, Serena, it's 11:49!" Trevor called out to them. "We're getting ready for the countdown, don't miss it!"
Serena looked at her phone to confirm the time for herself, and she raised her brow at how quickly midnight had come. Closing the menu on her phone, it returned to the video of the ball drop in Kalos, and a new thought popped into Serena's head.
"You said you've never seen a ball drop before?" She asked, and Ash gave her a nod. "Then how about we fix that one day. In the future, let's go to Kalos and see it together. How does that sound?"
Ash exhaled through his nostrils, and Serena witnessed as the smile on his face changed. It was still a smile, but somehow, someway, she could detect that it was a strained one. A smile he was forcing for her sake. He didn't break eye contact and gave her a small nod.
"It sounds great Serena, I'd like that." He stated in a tone she wasn't familiar with. Held within his short response was evidence of some sort of turmoil as if he was making a promise that he might break. He rose up from the couch and extended a hand toward her to help up. The next time he spoke, his usual liveliness had returned. "Now come on, we don't want to miss the fireworks."
Following him outside, Serena could sense her doubts looming over her. She wasn't going crazy, she knew exactly what she was seeing. The same crash course her father had been on when she was a child that ultimately took his life.
Ash was walking down the same path.
95 years since the Great Crisis
Sunday, January 1st
"Three…two…one…welcome to the new year!" The shout filled Brock's backyard, and cheers could be heard from within the adjacent households. With the completion of the countdown, Flint rushed to the panel on the back of his house to shut off the lights in his yard. The entire neighborhood must have followed suit because the darkness intensified. Then a streak of light raced upwards, and it cracked open in a fiery explosion. Exclamations of awe came from the children as the fireworks lit the skies with a rainbow of colors.
Locations all across Vermilion had been selected as sites to launch fireworks, providing the entirety of the metropolis with the ability to witness this spectacle. Ash stood on Brock's porch with Macy in his arms, admiring the display.
"Ashy, look!" Macy shouted as she pointed up to the bright reds that dominated the skies for just mere moments.
"You like it, Macy?" Ash asked her, and she gave him a hearty nod. Ash looked around the yard, his gaze resting on Brock's massive family. Among them, he saw Casey, who seemed to be feeling out of place as she fidgeted beside them. Then, as if she sensed his gaze, Casey turned and looked toward him.
With small gesture using his head, he gave her an invitation to join him and Macy on the porch. She didn't waste any time as she did so, coming up alongside him on the porch where Macy began to point out her favorite colors to her sister. This made Ash smile as he watched them, seeing their faces light up jubilantly in response to what was taking place above them.
"So, Casey, what are your plans for the year?" Ash asked her curiously. They never made eye contact, continuing to observe the occasion.
"I'm going to be stronger," She stated, and Ash raised his brow. "For Macy."
The last few months had been eventful, to say the least. If there had been anything that impressed Ash during this time, it was the resilience of these two girls. It was amazing how strong they had been through all this, especially Casey, who understood what was taking place. She was growing up through it all.
Transferring Macy to the pocket he created with one arm, Ash raised his free arm and placed it around Casey's neck, pulling her close to him.
"You keep doing that," He whispered to her. "And remember, you've got me too."
He only saw her face for a moment thanks to the flash from the latest set of deployed fireworks. It was the kind of smile he didn't receive often from Casey, one filled with total trust, and belief in him. This served as a reminder that no matter how she might treat him at times, she did still view him as her older brother.
"I know." She stated, and Ash smiled gratefully. She latched onto him in a hug, and Ash made a promise to himself.
I'm not going to let anything happen to my family. Even if it kills me.
It was early in the afternoon when Ash, Casey, Macy, and Pikachu returned to their home. Brock's barbeque turned into a sleepover for those invited due to the late hour at which the party finally came to an end. The children had fallen asleep all over the house once their sugar rush had stalled out, and they were gathered into the living room and left to sleep on top of each other on the couches.
Trevor didn't hesitate to take several photos of the kids, many of which Lola had requested a copy of to put in her scrapbook. It was at this point that Trevor became the center of attention as he showed some of the pictures he had taken on his camera. He had captured damn near everything noteworthy that happened during the barbeque if that was possible. From the incredible fireworks display, to impromptu photos of everyone as they associated, Trevor had taken enough pictures to compete with the album a photographer would produce for a wedding.
While everyone was enthralled with images, Trevor took Ash and Brock aside to show them one picture in particular. The focus was Flint and Lola posing together as a couple, but caught in the background was Tierno and Valerie by the grill, and upon closer inspection, they saw that Valerie stood on her toes to give a tomato-faced Tierno a kiss on the cheek. Trevor remarked that there could potentially be a new couple among their circle of friends. While Ash and Brock were astonished, they quickly agreed that they would be rooting for their friends nonetheless.
When morning came, Ash got a chance to witness what a morning in Brock's household looked like. There was an order to everything. Who used the bathroom, who received the first plate at breakfast, who was responsible for kitchen prep and cleanup. All ten of them moved like a well-oiled machine!
When it came time to say good-bye, Macy didn't want to leave after spending nearly an entire day with Billy and Tilly. Ash promised her that they would have another playdate in the future, but for now, they had to get back home.
Now as they stood on the front steps of their home, Casey did them the honor of unlocking the door and throwing it open to enter. As the girls rushed inside to get the air conditioner started, a voice called out to Ash. It came from the adjacent building on the second floor. Mr. Cheeves looked down at Ash with a small smile and tipped his hat to him.
"Welcome to the new year," Mr. Cheeves began. "I'm not going to trouble ya since today is a day to take it easy, but I'll be coming by for the rent later in the week."
"Uh…right," Ash replied, giving the man a nod.
"So, I take it you all went to a little party last night, huh?" Mr. Cheeves inquired
"Mhmm, a friend of mine that lives close by had a barbeque." Ash explained, causing his neighbor to smile fondly.
"My, that sounds like a good time." He remarked.
"It sure was," Ash replied before he heard a shout from Macy inside. "I'm gonna run for now, Mr. Cheeves. Someone has to keep an eye on those two and keep them out of trouble."
Mr. Cheeves laughed softly and gave the young man a wave before he disappeared into his home. Once inside and behind a closed door, Ash gave a deep sigh and leaned back against the door. The surreal celebration of his first victory had finally come to its end. A request for 'rent' acted as a reminder that life goes on.
Taking his phone out, he scrolled through his contacts list to pull up Malcolm Berlitz. Even if it was a wakeup call, Ash remained elated. His victory at the Hidden Cove was more than just his first career victory. This would also be his first payday!
"Casey, watch Macy for me. I have to make a call." Ash declared as he passed the living room. He went to the kitchen where he would have some peace and quiet, calling Malcolm as he did so. Ash raised his phone to his ears, waiting for the dial tone to sound, but it never came. Rather an electronic voice began to speak to him.
"I'm sorry, the number you've called is no longer in service." It declared, and his call was ended.
Ash blinked. It took a few moments for this to register in his mind as he looked at his phone, brow furrowed.
"The heck?" He muttered, and he went on to redial Malcolm's number.
"I'm sorry, the number you've called is no longer in service."
His call was ended a second time, and Ash's mouth was left open in question. I must be tired still, Ash concluded as he shut off his phone. Silently, he hoped that he had misread an old contact, mistaking it for Malcolm and that was the reason why no one was answering. But his fears were realized on his third attempt to call Malcolm Berlitz.
"I'm sorry, the number you've called is no longer in service."
He could feel a panic creeping up his spine and his mind began to race. What was happening? Why wasn't Malcolm answering his phone? There must have been a good reason for this, right?
Ash took in a shaky breath, his mind running wild. He needed this money, now more than ever! He had exhausted everything that had been given to him two months ago. Everything that he had saved from the Red Skulls had been used up.
He had nothing.
Ash called Malcolm again.
"I'm sorry, the number you've called is no longer in service."
"No." Ash began to shake his head. "No, no…this can't be happening. Not now."
He redialed Malcolm again, a prayer in his mind for a miracle to take place.
But his answer remained the same.
He saw the kitchen table, devoid of anything except the small flower arrangement Cassidy had placed on it many months ago. He set his phone down on the counter, and approached the table, taking a hold of the edges. He lifted it an inch or two to test its weight and decided then and there that he would flip this table. He was going to do it…he didn't care!
A laugh from Macy in the living room brought his vision back into focus, and Ash saw that his hands were visibly trembling. No, an outburst was unacceptable. He couldn't show any weakness in front of the girls. They needed to know that was alright. If they saw him panic, everything would unravel.
"I'm going to be stronger, for Macy."
He promised Casey that everything would be alright. His only instruction was for her to watch over her sister. He sucked in another breath of air and stood completely still, and his heartbeat slowed with time.
"It's okay. I'm okay." Ash whispered to himself. He was jumping to baseless conclusions. There had to be someone else tied to Malcolm that could help him out.
Charles…
Ash called Charles Goodshow. The elderly man had told him that Malcolm was one of, if not the biggest sponsor of the underground circuit. Charles must know something about this.
"Hello?"
"Mr. Goodshow, this is Ash Ketchum."
"Oh, I didn't think I'd be hearing from you until Saturday." Charles noted, but Ash cut straight to the chase.
"I'm trying to get in touch with Mr. Berlitz about payment for my match yesterday. But his phone has been deactivated or something like that. Um…do you know anything about this?" Ash asked him hopefully.
"No, I'm not aware of anything Malcolm might have planned." He replied.
"So then, what can I do about the money I earned?" Ash pressed.
"Well after the matches were completed last night, the money is forwarded to each sponsor for them to pay their trainers. As of right now, anything involving your payment is out of my hands." Charles explained, and Ash's heart broke.
"…Wha…What do I do then?" Ash barely managed to form this question, and the sigh he received from Charles made him distraught.
"At this moment Ash, I'm not sure what to tell you. The money goes to Malcolm, it's up to him to pay you now." Charles stated. "I'm sorry Ash. There's nothing left I can say."
There was a beep, and Ash glanced at his phone to see that the call had been ended. He sucked in his lips and tried to swallow the lump in his throat.
Was…Was Malcolm just using him?!
No, it…could it?
But it would explain why he was conveniently gone now.
Ash didn't want to admit. Something wasn't right. The man was a tycoon! What Ash made from one battle must have been chump change in comparison to what he makes. So why?
He needed answers.
Ash pressed his thumb against the buzzer of the intercom, and he glanced through the gateway that led to the Berlitz Estate. It was a rash decision to come here, and he was being inconsiderate to Brock, whom he had asked to drive him and the girls here. But Ash couldn't shoulder the suspense, it was weighing him down like nothing he had ever felt before.
So, he went straight to the Berlitz Estate to meet with the man himself.
"Good afternoon, how can I help you?" A woman asked him through the intercom.
"Hello, I'm here to meet with Mr. Berlitz." Ash replied.
"And who are you?"
"I'm Ash Ketchum."
"Well Mr. Ketchum," Ash could picture her rolling her eyes as she said this. "Mr. Berlitz has left the region on business."
"Do you know when he'll be back?"
"There was no time table set for this. Something urgent came up and he left earlier this week." She explained.
"I need to get in touch with him, is there any way you could contact him?" Ash inquired, desperately grasping the tiniest sliver of hope that he still had.
"Not until he returns." She answered, dashing away all that Ash had left.
Something snapped inside of him.
"Come on, you're not being serious, are you?" He asked her, his tone now rough.
"Excuse me?"
"You work for this guy, right?" Ash piped up. "How is it that you can't get in touch with him, and you don't know when he's getting back!?"
"Look, young man," She began.
"No, you look," Ash said vehemently, leaning toward the camera on the intercom. "I want to speak with Malcolm right now!"
"I already told you that's not possible right now." She snapped back at him.
"Does it look like I give a crap!" Ash hollered. "He can't leave me out to dry like this! I did everything he asked me to do! Every. Last. Thing! Tell him I want to talk to him! Tell him!"
There was no answer.
"Do you hear me!?" Ash screamed.
The silence persisted.
His eyes began to water as he pinched the bridge of his nose, and he kicked the stone wall.
Brock had parked a little bit farther up the road, playing some music for the girls to listen to in the backseat. Macy went about minding her own business, but Casey had been trying to watch Ash through the rearview mirror. She had watched him speak to the intercom for a while, and it quickly descended to him shouting at the wall.
And finally, it reached a point where Ash fell to his knees, hunched over on the sidewalk.
It was at this moment that Brock's hand impeded her view, and he angled the mirror to prevent her from watching. Casey unstrapped her seatbelt, preparing to look out through the rear window when Brock barked at her.
"Don't look at him." He said sharply, and Casey froze where she was. She had never heard Brock speak so fiercely, even earning Macy's attention. "He doesn't want you to see him like that."
Ash's vision was blurred from the hot tears, the concrete hurt the skin of his forearms as they rested against the sidewalk. All he could ask himself was…
What am I going to do?
A/N
Welp, this was supposed to be a nice relaxing chapter to follow up on Ash's first victory, but that changed dramatically as I was writing it. This chapter was the perfect opportunity to lay the groundwork for some future plans, some that you'll see in the next chapter, and a few that you won't see for a while including one big one that I pushed right in your face, but you won't get the significance of it for now. Not to worry though, all the pieces will come together in the future.
A big thanks to those of you that reviewed, and of course I have to direct some of your praise to MjrGenMatt.
Originally when I was writing the outline for this chapter, my intention was to have it prepared in time to go up with the New Year for 2019. Obviously, I'm three months late lol, but it's the thought that counts, right guys? xD
Annnnyway, I know in the past I told you guys that there was a lot of stuff I had to establish before I hit the really meaty parts of this story. I'm pleased to announce that I believe it's safe to say that I've finally finished all of the build up. It sounds crazy to say that at the end of chapter twenty-five, but I'm done for the most part. Starting from here on out, its a lot more plot movement rather than development. Don't get me wrong though, there is still quite a bit of stuff that has to be developed, but that won't be for a little while. Things will start to get more hectic, and I can't wait to see what I have in store. This is where I'd do some sort of evil cackle, but I'm terrible at those lol! So we'll just pretend I had some maniacal laughing right here and wrap it up on that note.
See you next time!