Begin With the End in Mind

by vegetables

The end of the road is never particularly bright. - SundaeShipping, Harley/Max, Harley/Masato.

12. Part Twelve

Part Twelve

-Harley-

I added two glasses of orange juice to the wooden tray before me, finishing off what would be the breakfast meal for the day. Having woken up early, I decided it was best to cook up something delightful for a morning feast. There were eggs, hash browns, and finally, pancakes, all of which looked just as pleasing as they surely would taste. I expected Maximus to feel quite the same, especially since I had gone through with all of this work for him as I knew he appreciated being pampered with a scrumptious meal after just being awoken.

For the rest of the afternoon yesterday, Max and I had done positively nothing. Even if the weather had been nice, I doubted we would've gone to that stupid carnival since his sister's little phone call had certainly ruined the entire day. Although I was still feeling quite upset about the whole situation, I had calmed down for the most part. I was going to try and keep Max from calling her today with the hope that perhaps he would just let it go, or, even better, realize that he was wasting his time since it was painfully obvious I was the one and only choice here.

I carefully sauntered up the staircase, reaching the top and wandering over to my bedroom, where Max was still sleeping. The two of us hadn't even had a good shag before going to sleep, and that was a definite sign of how badly his goddamn sister screwed up our day. Today was going to be different though. I was not going to let anything involving her bother me. Besides, even the weather was pleasant: sunny, warm, clear and just a bit of breeze to cool the temperature down. Perhaps I could persuade the boy to go out and swim again. Oh yes, that would make the day fabulous.

When I walked into the room, I saw that Maximus was actually sitting up, just having awoke. He was yawning, stretching tiredly and looking around. He caught my glance as I approached the bed, all the meanwhile, keeping a large grin on my face. I climbed onto the bed, using my knees to travel to the boy. I set the tray down on the bed then moved forward and kissed Max directly on the mouth. He was taken back and did not respond until I pressed my hand on his knee, leaning more into the liplock.

I pulled away and moved some hair out from my face as I presented him with one of the plates of food. "For you, darling," I said.

Max took the plate, examining the food for a moment. "Looks great," he noted happily. "Thank you!"

As Max was busy eating his food, I picked at my own, a smaller amount since I wasn't that hungry. The boy's hair was an absolute mess this morning, so I combed it out with my fingers, flattening it down and getting some of the nattiness out. Christ, he looked so adorable. He was so small and innocent and exquisite and it became more obvious than ever before that there was no one else like him in this world.

"Stop looking at me like that," the boy demanded, but he said it with amusement.

"Sorry, Maximus, but you do realize you look positively precious this morning, don't you?"

"No," he answered, shrugging his shoulders as he chewed down some eggs. "You look really tired though."

"Oh?" I wondered. "Well, it's not a surprise. Yesterday was stressful on me."

Max stayed silent. We both finished eating several minutes later, and I promptly removed the tray from the bed, setting it on the floor peacefully. Max was about to get out of bed, possibly to go wash up, but I stopped him, pinning him down gently and capturing his mouth on mine. I was pretty sure Max expected this, too, because he instantly responded, even going through with wrapping his arms around me.

"I am sorry about yesterday, Harley," the boy whispered, kissing me on the chin.

I pushed the boy up a little then reached out and urged his legs around my hips. As he clung to me, I stamped several kisses along his arm, reaching his neck and sucking on the skin there.

"I think I need to call May now," he then said.

I froze, pulling away from the boy and staring down at him. "Why?" I demanded.

"Because I need to know how long Mom and Dad are going to be gone," he explained to me. "It will only take a second, Harley."

"Later," I told him. I pushed myself against him and began sliding my hand underneath his shirt. Last night was basically the first time the two of us had slept in any clothing, but I was ready to strip him of his attire now. "Right now, I need to ravish my darling, Maximus."

The boy sighed beneath me. "It will only take a second," he repeated, pushing me away.

"So will this."

"No, it won't!" the boy argued, and he used more force to push at me.

I raised an eyebrow at the boy. "What's wrong with you?" I asked hastily.

"I just want to call May."

"Don't say her name to me." And, I meant this. I did not want to hear her fucking name right now.

"What?" the boy confusedly exclaimed.

"I said do not say her name to me, Max," I reaffirmed. And, now upset myself, I climbed off the boy, sitting properly and glaring at him.

Max reached for his glasses and put them on. I think he was trying to get a better look at my expression, which was definitely just as threatening as my words. This caused him to narrow his eyes. Then, after a moment, he got out of bed, walking out of the room and down the hall. I didn't try to stop him either.

Annoyed, I got up a moment later and brought the tray downstairs. As I cleaned off the dishes and stuck them in the washer I heard Max slowly walking down the stairs, having spent a good ten or so minutes upstairs, possibly collecting his thoughts. I chose to ignore him for the most part, simply cleaning up around the kitchen, but when I was through, I walked back into the living room, where he was pathetically sitting there, on the couch, looking glum and lonely. He also seemed apologetic.

"Harley…" he called out.

Not wanting to hear yet another apology from the boy, I walked over to the phone, grabbing it and throwing it in Max's direction. "Call her," I said.

Max furrowed his brow, looking back and forth between the phone and me. I widened my eyes, emphasizing that I was being serious. I then folded my arms, leaning against the breakfast counter and waiting for him to start dialing once he picked up the phone. I think, for the most part, he was very intimidated by my presence, and I hoped that would help fuck up his conversation with his sister. Besides, if I felt like it, I could grab the phone from him and say whatever I felt like to her.

"Fine," Max eventually replied. He then began dialing the number.

As he waited for a ring, I grabbed my cigarettes that rested on the counter. Just as I began flicking my lighter to life, Max seemed to perk up, and I knew his sister had answered, most likely with a pathetically stupid, "Heeeeeello!"

"Hi, May," the boy said, narrowing his eyes so he wouldn't be tempted to look at me. After waiting for his sister to stop talking, he said, "Yeah, I'm fine. I just woke up."

Ugh, and if only she knew Max had chosen to call her over getting a nice, early morning shag. Jeesh, who rejected that for a fucking phone call?

"I don't know, May," he then stated. "I kind of want to stay in Slateport."

My anger went down a little bit. Maybe it was because I was smoking and that always calmed my nerves, or maybe, his comment actually did affect me. It was, after all, rather sweet. And, besides, it did make me realize—on some level, anyway—that if it weren't for me, Max probably would've already left to go back home. I actually was keeping him from making a final decision, and therefore, I meant something to him.

"Nothing," he answered, a bit quickly and suspiciously. I suspected that May asked what he was doing in the city. "Listen, um, when are Mom and Dad going to be home?"

I idly sucked in some fumes while I sat on the stool behind me, eager to get more comfortable. Max was busy listening to whatever the trollop was saying, and I simply couldn't help but find amusement in how deadpanned the boy looked now as opposed to so many more memorable moments with moi.

"Why… why so long, May?"

This caused me to become curious. Long? I hoped to bloody God that he didn't mean his parents were going to be away for a while. Oh, fuck, it better not have meant that.

"They never mentioned that to me though," he went on, seeming very despondent. A moment later, he said, "What if I don't?"

I found myself narrowing my own eyes. I did not like where his conversation was going. Not at all.

"May, I… I don't know if I can. I mean, I want to, but it's sort of complicated."

I swore I could hear the trollop asking, "How so?" in her stupid, squeaky voice.

"Well," the boy began, "it's nice here, and I am training—"

Max stopped mid-sentence, obviously interrupted. I witnessed his mouth drop open and his brow furrow. He gaped several times, repeatedly trying to collect his thoughts and say something.

"Why would you do that?" he asked, almost angrily. "I haven't even agreed to come, May."

Again, I almost heard the girl's voice, pleading for him to calm down or something like that. She was pathetic. I knew it without having to really know what she was saying to him.

"Well," Max continued, "how long do you actually think I'll be there? I have to go back to Johto so I can challenge Clair. That'll be in a couple of weeks."

Much more eagerly, I inhaled some smoke, letting some enter my lungs and letting the rest escape into the air. It was very quiet in the living room, and for the first time, I actually could hear the girl's voice coming from the phone. It was static and rough sounding through the phone, but it was definitely her. I rolled my eyes.

"It's almost like you're forcing me, May," he sadly said to her. "But, okay, whatever. I'll think about it some more. Bye." He hung up quickly, obviously a bit upset. However, unlike what I was expecting, he did not look up to me. I suspected he wanted my comfort, but thought I was not going to supply him any since I was irate.

But, my affection for the boy made me want to comfort him. So, I stood up, extinguishing the cigarette in the ashtray on the coffee table, and soon, making my way over to the boy. I sat next to him on the couch, wrapping an arm around his lithe body and embracing him. His body felt sad, and I wasn't even sure how that was humanly possible.

"Harley," he voiced, almost in a whimper, "she said she bought me a ship ticket."

Surprised, I pulled away a little, just to get a look at the boy's sullen face. "A ship ticket?" I echoed. "You mean, to Petalburg?"

"Yeah," he answered, "and, to me, that feels like she's forcing me to come home."

"Seems for once we agree," I noted bitterly. "So, did she say how long Norman and what's-her-name were going to be off wherever?"

"She said the conference is a week long, but they want to stay in Kanto for a while," the boy told me, obviously mulling over whether or not that really was true. "I guess Dad does deserve some time off. I don't think he's ever left the Gym for longer than a day though."

"Everyone needs a vacation once and a while," I shrugged out. "I don't find it bizarre that even your father would want one. He seems like a very overworked man anyway!" I grinned at Maximus as I ran my hands through his hair.

"She asked me what I was doing here," he revealed to me, almost laughing between words. "There honestly was a part of me that wanted to tell the truth."

I smiled distantly at this. "Oh, really?"

"Yeah," the boy confirmed again. "Maybe then she would've gotten upset and not want me to come anymore."

"So, why didn't you tell her?" I asked, furrowing my brow deeply.

"Because, Harley, I don't know whether or not I'm going," he dully explained. "She said I could pick up my ticket at the harbor if I decide to go."

"I see," I decided to say. "And, let's say, you did go, Maximus. Then what would you do after you good deed was done?"

"It depends," Max said. "It depends on how long I'll be there. I might go back to Johto and battle Clair, or I might come back here."

"Who says I'll be waiting?" I asked cruelly. I bit my bottom lip, giving him a grimace. "What you want to do, basically, is gallop off, visit your sister and then come back and expect everything to be fine with me."

"Why shouldn't it be, Harley?" he wondered, frowning. "It's not as if I'm going off and visiting someone like, you know, and having an affair or something."

"It is to me!" I barked, standing up suddenly. I looked down at him, glaring. "You know how I feel about her."

Max sighed heavily. He stood up, too, and carefully approached me. "I wouldn't do anything with her," he told me. "Harley, I wouldn't. She's not you. No one is you." The boy then reached out, touching my arm weakly.

I kneeled down, slightly pushing into his touch before leaning forward and kissing him. He was just as eager, and it showed through the way his arms encircled me and the way he lifted his legs, basically climbing into my arms. I gladly picked the boy up, taking him in my arms and continuing to mash our mouths together. I moaned deeply, turning my head and letting my tongue slide in so I could explore his heated mouth.

"You need to promise me that, Max," I softly lamented.

"Harley…" the boy called out, puzzled.

I don't think he realized how much this was getting to me, how much I did, in fact, need that promise. How could I trust him around her? How? How? Everything that girl had done to me—taken away so many ribbons, so many championships—and now this: she was taking Max away from me. I thought she was out of the picture for good. If it weren't for their scrabble in the first place, perhaps I wouldn't have been given the opportunity to bond with Max. If the two of them had been close throughout these entire years, Max would've kept his distance from me, feeling the same way about me that he had all those years ago. But, no. When we met in Goldenrod, Max and his sister were still on bad terms and that had been a contribution to what started our relationship.

"I love you, Harley, you," he then admitted, hugging me tightly as I continued to hold him.

"But, you love her, too," I pointed out, speaking into his neck.

"Not in the same way!"

"But, I don't trust her," I seethed.

Basically, Max decided it would be best to shut me up. He fused our lips and fused them hard, pressing deeply and ensuring I responded with as much passion as he was creating. I sucked on his bottom lip. I ran my fingers through his hair. I held his hips tightly. And, sooner or later, I felt my legs moving, bringing him upstairs where I could ravish the hell out of him, have him the way I never wanted another person to ever experience for all their miserable lives.

Max was mine. I didn't care if he denied it.

xxxxx

-Max-

Harley's hands were groping at my shirt, pulling it off me and working their way to undoing my shorts. I closed my eyes, concentrating on his touches as I felt the bed sheets against my bare back, soft and silky. I then decided to remove my glasses, placing them elsewhere as the man pulled off my lower attire, stripping me completely and beginning to take off his own clothing. I helped him with his black tank-top, then used my open-palmed hand to feel the man's warm, smooth chest, which made him emit a low moan. I could feel his erection beneath his pants, pressing against the fabric and causing me to purse my lips in desire.

He hovered over me, colliding our bodies and grating them considerably before stamping a single kiss on my chin and then pressing our lips together. I felt his hands on my hips, a firm grip that heightened when I leaned into his touch. Almost desperate to surprise and please the man, I reached out just as Harley finally pulled down his pants and enclosed my hand around his hardness. And, just as I suspected, the man let out an enthusiastic moan, allowing me to stroke him in my own unsure and messy way. Responding positively, I caressed him faster, causing him to grin widely and push down for a kiss on the lips.

Harley's hand traveled down my body, touching me just the same, but with more skill and inept. I wrapped one arm around him, bringing him closer before the man straightened his back, spreading my legs and moving between my thighs. I helped him by wrapping my legs around his waist, causing him to smile wantonly at me, both knowingly and mindfully. He put a hand to my mouth, urging me to wet it. I spit a considerably large amount of saliva into his palm, and he prepared himself before beginning to cautiously press into my entrance.

"Mm, Harley," I groaned, tightening my legs around him.

"Remember when I first did this?" he asked me, whispering into my ear. "You were so scared, oh yes, you were."

"Yes," I revealed, "I remember. And, it hurt a lot."

Harley grinned and gently bit my ear. "I should've just had my way with you from the start," he stated, but it was a tease and I wasn't threatened. After a moment, the man sheathed himself more into my body, stroking my hardness to calm me from the occasional burn.

"But, you didn't," I told him. "And, I still don't know why. It didn't even seem like you."

"You think?" he wondered, kissing my cheek. "What's the point of enjoying a shag with little Maximus when he's not responsive and willing, huh?"

I hadn't considered this. I guess Harley's sexual appetite wasn't as selfish as I sometimes thought. He wanted some form of consent from me, always. I smiled at this then pushed myself forward onto his erection, forcing him to fully penetrate me. In unison, the two of us let out a moan, and it didn't take long for Harley to create a pattern: pulling out of me, pushing back in, and making each of his driving thrusts as delightful as possible. I quickly gripped his shoulders, looping my arms beneath his underarms and embracing him firmly.

"Harley," I panted, feeling his hardness brush against the limits of my entrance and causing me to groan.

The man grinned, a mix of braze and happiness, and continued to push in and out of me, eventually moving his left hand near my face and stroking my hair fondly. I enticed him further, sliding forward with each thrust he gave and pulling myself up enough to kiss him on his shoulder and neck. I kept doing this, and somehow, I ended up directly in his lap, straddling his erection that was buried deep inside me. The man was definitely pleased and moved his hands to either sides of my body, directly on my hips to help me rise and lower myself onto his hardness.

"Oh, Lord, Maximus, you are such a delight," he sang out, thrusting up his hips in a heated frenzy.

I shut my eyes tightly, concentrating specifically on the way I collapsed my weight onto him, and sooner or later, linking my arms around his neck, adding to the pressure. Harley's mouth fused onto my shoulder blade, kissing me all the way up to my mouth and turning my head so he could allow his tongue entry. Our tongues slid against the other, exploring fervently as we thrust, up and down, in and out.

I felt Harley's nails dig into my shoulder, a clear sign he was growing weak. My own muscles tightened a moment later, and I excitedly called out his name as I climaxed onto his stomach. I shook in aftershock, causing Harley's carnal thrusts to increase until he reached completion, too, all the meanwhile, groaning out my name into my neck.

"Oh, Maximus," he happily slurred, kissing me endlessly on the neck. "Amazing. You. This. Everything." He stroked my hair for a moment, then reached down between our bodies, wiping off my climax from his stomach and chest.

I watched as he, once again, brought his hand to his mouth, licking off the fluid that wet his entire palm. The man was obviously teasing me. I frowned, causing him to chuckle. He kissed me, and I could taste myself on him very prominently.

After kissing him back, I tilted my head, admitting, "I was suspecting a bite this time around."

"Sorry to disappoint," he replied, and quickly, he leaned forward, giving me a quick nip on the neck.

Stinging more than I expected, I flinched, letting out a yelp. "Oww, Harley!" I yelled, pushing him away a little. I decided to sit up more, pulling him out of my body and allowing myself to lie backwards on the bed.

Harley followed suit, lying next to me, and as always, pulling me close. "Faunlet," he declared, kissing my forehead. "You know, Max, I'm full of ego-rising compliments for you, but I don't think I've ever heard you say something sweet to me."

"Uh, what do you want to hear?" I stuttered, raising an eyebrow.

"Well, I already know I'm gorgeous and beautiful and handsome, but I'd like to hear it from your lips, darling," he stated.

I rolled my eyes. "Why, when you're so sure of it all yourself?" I challenged.

"I just said," he grunted. "Because I want to hear it from your lips."

"Fine, Harley," I said with a shrug. "I think you're handsome." I instantly felt color rise into my cheeks.

Jeez, I felt so retarded now. But, I did indeed think Harley was quite handsome. It didn't really seem like the proper word to call a man like him, who was so campy and effeminate, but I supposed it was the only word that worked for me. I didn't want to label him as "pretty" or anything, because it didn't seem right. I kept staring at him, trying to figure out if there was anything else I could say, and I then realized my comment might have seemed a bit farce.

"I do, Harley," I reaffirmed. "The more I think about, the more I realize it's true. You are, uh, handsome."

"I smell good, too."

"And, you accused me of getting a complex?" I demanded, half-amused. "You're ridiculous, I swear." I began laughing, pressing my face against the man's shoulder blade to calm myself.

Harley stroked my hair, allowing his fingers to trace deep, massaging my scalp a bit. His skin felt very warm, and I realized that the sun was beating into the room, shining all over and creating quite the warmth all around. I wondered if Harley was still interested in going to that carnival since we failed to go yesterday. I was still amused by his claim he didn't like heights, so it made me all the more eager to go and try and get him to go on the Ferris wheel with me. They so weren't scary, and even if I was afraid of heights, I couldn't see myself being scared of a Ferris wheel.

"What are you thinking about?" the man then asked.

"The carnival," I admitted. "Do you want to go still?"

"Still?" he echoed. "I don't even remember agreeing in the first place."

"Harley…" I said warningly. "It would be fun! Don't you want to win me something?"

"Oh, do you want me to win you something?"

I sat up a little, pulling on the man's arm. "Yeah," I said, knowing it might be the only thing that would encourage the man to get up. "So, come on."

I could tell Harley considered whether or not he wanted to reject me, and I could also tell he was thinking about the situation with May. He looked a little miserable, but I doubted anyone else could tell but me. I leaned back towards him, kissing the man quickly before returning to pulling his arm.

"Fine," he grunted. "But, does it have to be now, dear?"

"Of course it does!" I exclaimed. "We don't want to get there when it's all late and nothing's open anymore!" I smiled in a pleading sort of way.

Harley's eyes closed halfway, shooting a small glare at me. I could tell he wanted to argue more, but was definitely in agreement about going. Deciding not to continue debating, the man stated, "Well, as long as you don't get all prim and proper, like you tend to in public." He smirked, and soon, began searching for his clothing.

I managed to find all of mine, throwing everything on quickly and racing to the bathroom to wash up again, just so I would look proper. Eventually, Harley made his way into the bathroom, straightening up as well. When we were both through, we exited and went downstairs. I considered taking my bag with me, but thought against it. I wouldn't need my Pokémon at the carnival, and I sort of figured that there was nothing they could do there anyway. And, in a way, I wanted it just to be Harley and me, which seemed silly in a way. Regardless, I decided not to bring my bag, and sooner or later, Harley and I were out the door, on our way to the carnival.

We ended up walking towards the city, although I knew from the flyer that the carnival was actually near the Contest Hall, on top that big hill that overlooked the city. Instead of taking a normal, busy route, we eventually parted the normal path and walked behind the downtown area. After a couple of minutes, I spotted the hill far ahead of us, and it was completely covered with the carnival's rides, tents, stands, food courts, everything. It looked really colorful and fun, and I was more excited than ever to actually reach the event.

"What's the first thing you want to do?" I inquired, looking up to the man as we walked.

"Hmm," he said, pursing his lips. "Have a wank in the haunted house, perhaps?"

I scoffed in annoyance. "No, Harley, let's just do normal stuff, okay?" I suggested, furrowing my brow.

Harley muttered something, but I didn't catch anything coherent out of it. I suspected it was more about "normal stuff" being no fun, but I couldn't be sure. We stayed silent for the rest of the time walking, and on the way, the man put on his sunglasses and moved his long hair over his shoulder, possibly annoyed that he hadn't brought his hat with him. Truthfully, I was beginning to realize I liked Harley better without his hat. I thought he not only looked younger, but also seemed to have a whole different persona, one less threatening than his usual appearance.

Reaching nearer, we began walking up the steep hill, entering through the side of the carnival. There appeared to be no fee to get it, although I knew that hardly mattered since tickets for the rides and games would makeup for that. I wanted to offer paying for something myself, but I knew Harley would refuse my charity. Even though he had money and plenty of it, it still didn't feel right to let him continuously buy everything for me.

Lights shining and streamers floating, the entire carnival was a dazzling combination of every single color imaginable. The festival seemed to go on for acres, but that was a mirage of all the tall rides and booths that surrounded us. But, so far, as we walked, nothing was catching my attention. The rides here didn't look all that fun, and besides, I doubted Harley would be interested in any of those. It was a while before I spotted a food stand, which advertised cotton candy.

"Ah, here we go!" the man exclaimed for me. He changed directions, drifting over to the stand and taking a good look at the menu. "I think I want a blue one," he told me with a grin.

"Okay, then, I'll have a pink one," I informed him, still a bit surprised Harley would even be interested in cotton candy.

Behind the counter, the worker handed us two prepared bags of cotton candy, one blue and one pink. After paying, we walked away, taking a seat at an empty bench, which was slightly littered with split soda, popcorn and corn dog sticks. The sight of the latter reminded me of when Harley and I were in Olivine, and he had challenged me to that incredibly embarrassing competition. Even now I remained embarrassed by it!

I ripped the plastic sheet covering the cotton candy, taking it by the handle and examining the fluffy, colorful treat. Harley was already picking at his, eating the sugary snack in an overly polite way.

"I think the last time I was at a bloody carnival was when I was ten, Maximus," he told me. "I suppose this is a perk—amongst many, many others!—about having a delightfully young and sweet faunlet all to myself: you make me feel young again!"

"I've been to a million carnivals in my lifetime," I admitted. "Especially with Ma—" I stopped myself mid-sentence, narrowing my eyes in uncertainty.

"She was bound to come up eventually," the man sneered, popping a thin strip of the cotton candy into his mouth.

"Yeah, I know, but sorry anyway."

Harley let out a sigh, annoyed and frustrated. "Have you decided what the hell you're doing now that we're on the subject?" he then wondered, avoiding looking at me.

"I, um… well, no, actually," I told him. "I haven't had the opportunity to think it over."

"Hm, I see," he then voiced distantly.

"I'm not sure if I should bother asking, because I think I know your answer, but I'll give it a shot anyway." I paused for a moment, picking at my cotton candy. "Do you think I should go?"

Harley laughed. Cruelly, too. "You're right, Max, you do know the answer. I'll spare you hurt feelings by not saying it either. You know my stance on this."

I let an uneasy silence wash through us for several minutes as we ate the rest of the cotton candy. I wanted to ask the man what he would do if I did decide to go, but sadly, I didn't know if I wanted to hear the answer. Once again, I thought he was being incredibly unfair with the situation, basically acting like I had to choose between my sister and him. It almost felt like… well, that I would lose one if I chose the other. That thought sent a pang down my heart, one I couldn't bear if it became reality.

Abruptly, I felt one of the man's hands on my thighs, gliding up and down. I stared at the moving hand then to Harley, who suddenly had a very sly grin on his face and was moving toward me, whispering, "I don't want to have to share you, darling."

Share me? I wasn't sure why he said this so seductively, so calmly, but it undoubtedly had to do with him trying to get me to forget about May. Oddly enough, it sort of did, because it reminded me of what we had done this morning, what we always seemed to do in the mornings and at night. There was no way I could share that sort of experience with someone other than Harley. I was so sure that by now we knew each other far too intimately, and while that definitely had its advantages in the relationship, it sure wasn't helping the situation now.

Sighing, I eventually finished my cotton candy, which by the end, became so sticky and gross that I didn't want to eat the remaining fluff stuck onto the cardboard stick. Harley seemed to be done with his, too, and we both threw the snacks away in the nearby garbage can. Before we began walking again, I took a moment to really look at Harley: his features, his clothing, his expression. Wondering again for the millionth time, why was it that this man, this completely feminine and flashy man, made me feel so strange, so full of affection and desire and security? It was so hard to be with him without wanting to touch him and kiss him and hug him. I was finally beginning to understand why Harley was so affectionate towards me all the time, even in public.

"Can't take your eyes off of me, huh?" the man teased, grinning. "I'm just so beautiful, I know."

Instead of blushing or becoming flustered or anything like that, I gave him a very soft smile and said, "You mean a lot to me."

"Max, don't say stuff like that if you don't mean it," he lectured.

"What?" I demanded. "I'm not lying, Harley! You do! I've told you that before!"

I couldn't tell whether or not Harley was joking. His features were unreadable. For a while, I thought this was the beginning of another fight, but he soon asked, "Want me to win you something now?"

I furrowed my brow, but not knowing what else to do, I nodded in agreement. "Okay, fine." I pointed at a nearby game booth, which had prizes consisting of really cute plushes. "Win me one of those!"

Harley began smiling like a maniac, obviously completely thrilled with the idea, way more than I was, actually. He grabbed my wrist, leading me over to the booth, covered in a white tarp and surrounded by its prizes and a small crowd of spectators, watching curiously. The game seemed to be rather typical for a carnival. There was a painted Snorlax on the far wooden wall and a triangular hole where the mouth should've been. On the counter was a basket full of stuffed triangles, so it was quick to conclude that the concept of the game was simply to throw the items through the mouth. When Harley and I managed to squeeze through the wandering crowds, the man slammed down some money onto the counter, the highest amount available for the most tries.

"I would like to try," he proclaimed, grinning confidently at the carnie.

I watched as Harley gathered the seven stuffed triangles, all which looked pretty dirty from continuously being touched by the hands of those who played the game. The man seemed to notice the discolored stains on the items, too, but obviously decided to ignore it. He picked up the first thing, concentrating on the silly painted Snorlax before swinging his arm back and throwing the triangle forward. The object slammed into the wall, falling pathetically onto the floor. His first attempt hadn't been successful.

"Good try," I noted, but I realized a moment later that Harley probably would've preferred me to say nothing.

So, the man tried again, but once more the object missed its target and fell to the floor. Annoyed now, Harley carelessly picked up a third triangle, throwing it forward and missing all over again. He made an aggravated grunt, huffing loudly and putting his hands on his hips as he stared at the hole again, trying to figure out how to throw next.

"I think this is gypped," he sneered.

"I've seen people walking around with some of these prizes," I told him. "So, it can't be completely impossible."

Harley grunted again, taking a triangle, and this time, throwing more at an angle. When the object hit the wall it appeared to be closer to the hole than before, so Harley instantly became more pleased. He pursed his lips, concentrating more and tilting his head to examine something further. With the fifth triangle in his hand, he positioned it himself, then very carefully, swung his arm back before throwing it forward. The stuffed object flew through the hole, collapsing on the other side of the booth, unseen.

"Ah-ha!" the man shouted, obviously very proud. "That wasn't even my last one either." He grinned happily, mostly at me, actually.

"Nice job," commented the carnie. "What do you want?" He gestured to the plushes hung around the booth.

Harley looked at me again, curious for the answer. I began looking at all the plushes, most of which I hadn't taken the time to examine. I wasn't even sure what I was going to do with one of them, but they were really cute. There were a large variety of choices: Bellossom, Chatot, Pikachu, Oddish, Skitty.

"The Chatot," I said, pointing.

Once the carnie got it down from the booth's ceiling, he handed it to Harley, who handed it to me proudly. I examined the plush, which was so soft and colorful, and smiled pleasantly. Harley and I began walking away, allowing someone behind us to go. I held up the Chatot, petting the fake fur and laughing.

"Thank you, Harley," I said, feeling a bit embarrassed that Harley won me something as childish as a toy plush.

"Why'd you choose that one?" he wondered, extending his arm and taking it from me to look at it. He turned it upside down, then sideways, then upside down again. "I've never even seen a real Chatot."

"I've seen some," I admitted. "But, I chose it because I thought it was the cutest."

Harley handed it back to me. "I'm just happy to be the one who won it for you!" he admitted, grinning as he patted the back of my head.

"You know, Harley," I said, frowning a little, "you've given me so much stuff, and I haven't really given you anything." I pursed my lips nervously.

"Most of the time you've given me a piece of that sassy little mind of yours," he quipped, reaching into his pocket and fetching his cigarettes. He put a stick in his mouth, and as he flicked the lighter to life, he mumbled, "Also your virginity."

I grumbled, knowing that additional gibe was coming. "That's not what I meant," I told him. "I just feel like I haven't done enough for you, Harley."

"You have," he assured me. He took a drag of his cigarette, then said, "Don't worry about it, darling."

"Are you sure?" I asked. "If not, I could, like, win you something here."

Harley laughed, moving his cigarette away so he wouldn't choke on the fumes. "Don't worry," he reaffirmed. "Your tight ass is enough for me, I promise."

I sighed just as we arrived near a bench. I took a seat and Harley sat closely beside me, crossing his legs and sucking in more of his cigarette. And, even though we were in the public, I allowed him to wrap an arm around me, pulling me close. I figured since he won me the prize that I could at least return the favor by letting him touch me. Now that it was later in the afternoon, the sun wasn't nearly as bright. Because of this, the lights around the carnival were starting to glow more prominently, mixing with the bright hues of the endless decorations. It made the setting more comfortable, and I was glad, because there was still an uneasy aura between Harley and I, the inevitable need to for an answer floating about.

I set the Chatot on my lap, looking around the area to see if there was anything of interest. Again, most of the activities just weren't going to interest Harley, but still, the Ferris wheel stuck out to me.

"So, what's so scary about heights, anyway?" I wondered, watching the man blow some smoke through his nose.

Harley made a face, obviously knowing why I was asking. "I wouldn't use the word scary, Maximus," he argued, trapping his cigarette between his fingers. "I just don't like heights. I always feel as though I'm going to bloody topple over."

"But, you've been on balconies before," I noted.

"Yes, but I don't lean over them," he said. "If I did then I would just die, ugh."

I couldn't help but laugh at his overdramatic worry. "Well, a Ferris wheel can't be that uncomfortable for you."

"Believe me, they are," he sighed, running his hands through his front bangs.

"I'll be there though," I told him. "Please, it will be fun." I put a hand on his arm.

Harley took another drag from his cigarette. "Oh, you little manipulator," he jeered, grinning at me. "You're a quick learner, knowing I have an awful hard time saying no to your sweet, faunlet self. But, that doesn't mean I am going to be swayed about this."

"Harley, please," I begged, smiling widely so he knew I wasn't being too naggy. "It would just be fun. I promise you won't die or anything."

I could see the man was being swayed though. He gave me a look, rolling his eyes briefly, before moving down and kissing me directly on the mouth. I could taste the fresh tobacco lingering, but I also thought I tasted some of the sugar between the creases of his mouth from the cotton candy.

Harley threw his cigarette on the ground, stepping on it lightly. "As long as you don't mind me grabbing onto you, I'll be fine," he told me, still close to my face.

"Okay," I simply replied, glad to have him agree. "Let's get in line then!" I hopped off the bench, still holding my Chatot and pulling Harley up with me.

Harley was slow, but he did allow me to lead the way, getting in the reasonably short line with him. The Ferris wheel was currently going now, continuously revolving and only stopping when a new set of carts were at the top. The gentle wind had the seats moving back and forth, and within the minutes that Harley and I were waiting in line, they turned on another set of lights on the wheel, making it glow even more.

We made it to the front of the line after a few minutes and were seated on a purple cart with swirly designs on it. We sat on opposite sides, but while I scooted to the very end to look out the window, Harley stayed still right in the middle of his seat. Soon, the wheel began moving, going up a few feet and stopping so the next set of people could get onboard the cart below us.

Still fascinated, I looked at the window, but there wasn't much to look at since we weren't high up yet. Harley's lips were tightly pursed, and he had his eyes closed. I was shocked to see him this nervous. I did consider that besides balconies, I actually hadn't seen Harley anywhere near heights. I couldn't help worry just a bit for the man, so I switched seats, moving over next to Harley and blocking the window view for him.

"I can't believe you're this scared!" I exclaimed.

"Scared is not the word, once again," he lectured, furrowing his brow.

"Then, what are you?" I asked, grinning.

"On-edge…"

I rolled my eyes. "That's basically the same thing," I told him, feeling the wheel continue to rotate. We were now fairly high, so I looked out, seeing a good view of both the carnival and Slateport off in the distance. "Look, there's the Contest Hall!"

"I prefer not to," Harley grunted, folding his arms and relaxing against his seat.

A large gust of wind went by, hitting our cart and causing it to roughly sway. Harley immediately gripped the side of the cart, grunting loudly and biting his lip. I was pretty unnerved by the movement, continuing to look out the window as we reached the very top. I could finally see most of the city, which was now lit up just like the carnival. With such a gray sunset throughout the sky, everything was so glistening and lively: the buildings, the signs, the lamp posts.

I looked down at the Chatot, just as colorful as the scenery outside. It was silly—so silly—but I was absolutely thrilled Harley had won this thing for me. I wasn't one for stupid little plush toys, but it was just the fact Harley had won it for me that made me so happy to receive it. I suddenly felt bad for forcing Harley on the Ferris wheel, especially since I could feel how stiff and nervous he was next to me.

I reached out, resting a hand on Harley's thigh, hoping that the touch would calm him. He still felt stiff, but he quickly accepted what I was doing and pushed himself against me, putting an arm around my hips. His grip was rather tight, and I figured he was doing this because he felt insanely unbalanced up here on the swaying cart.

"You're kind of hurting me," I told him, trying to shake away the grip around my hips. "We're not going to fall!"

Harley made a noise in the back of his throat. "It certainly feels like we are!" he yelled. His grip only tightened around me, and he pulled me closer, forcing my legs over his and keeping my back up with a single arm.

Now in less pain, I relaxed. Hoping to let Harley feel the same, I leaned against him, pushing my face into his shoulder and loosely hugging him. His arms seemed less rigid, but he was definitely still tense.

I began laughing softly. "You're such a weirdo," I announced, linking an arm behind his neck.

"We're going down now," he stated, sighing heavily. He lifted my chin, looking me straight in the eye. "I could just squeeze you, you adorable thing."

I made an amused face but otherwise remained unaffected by the man's strange statement. My chin still lifted, Harley leaned in, stamping a kiss there before planting another right on my lips. I responded, tilting my head and opening my mouth so his tongue could enter. His hands cozily rested on my sides, and I felt very light and happy now that he wasn't all jittery.

"How about that wank in the haunted house?" he asked, his tone soft.

"Well, I haven't seen a haunted house, so I don't know if I can agree to that," I told him. Then, through my stifled laughter, I added, "Let's get some corn dogs."

Now, it was Harley's turn to laugh, and as we settled on the bottom of the wheel, he seemed completely okay with the situation. "Oh, now that is something I could agree to!" he beamed. "So long as you want to play our little game again."

I shrugged as I moved off of Harley's lap. "I guess I owe you something for dragging you on this thing," I replied, grinning.

"Good then!" he exclaimed.

When the carnie opened the cart and allowed us out, Harley and I made our way over to the closest food stand. Almost too eager, the man ordered two corn dogs, handing one to me by the stick and then traveling over with me to sit on another one of the benches. I was about to take a bite out of the food, but then I remembered I agreed to play Harley's little game. The man was already lolling his head back and dangling the corn dog by the stick to allow it into his mouth. I watched him for a moment, fascinated, but sooner or later, copied his movements.

The corn dog was really warm in my mouth, and like before, the bread felt really weird. I felt the very tip of it press into my throat, and it seemed to close up, uninviting to the invading figure. I coughed slightly, but tried to get the corn dog in deeper. Eventually, I clamped my mouth shut, biting where I was at before gagging unpleasantly.

I pounded my chest, trying to relax before I looked over at Harley, who I could see was biting the stick, just like last time. I frowned deeply and grunted out, "You win again, Harley."

The man took the corn dog out of his mouth, smiling. "Well, no surprise there, darling," he said, laughing. He then leaned over, examining mine. "But, it does look like you got it a little further, if that helps."

I gave Harley a look before I decided to bite into my corn dog for real. "I don't even know why I do these kind of things with you," I told him lightheartedly.

"Me either," the man said amusedly, "especially when I've had first-hand experience with your abilities."

I instantly turned red. "Why do you have to be so gross?"

The man laughed loudly then took a bite from his corn dog. "You and I ought to get going before it gets too dark," he said, his mouth full.

I finished up my corn dog and discarded the stick in the trash. "Fine with me," I said. I picked up my Chatot, which I had placed on the bench, and walked alongside Harley as he began walking towards the exit.

By now, most of the carnival activities were slowing down, but there was definitely going to be a new wave of people coming for the later hours of the carnival. Of course, it was better for us to leave, because most of the people coming in looked freaky and weird.

"Thank you for taking me," I said to Harley as we strolled down the hill leading back to the city. "And for going on the Ferris wheel with me. And winning this Chatot. And, uh, everything."

Harley smiled, obviously proud of himself. "You're welcome, Maximus," he said to me. The man patted my head, but purposely let his fingers glide down and stroke the back of my neck.

For the most part, we walked in silence for the rest of the way back to Harley's house. There was hardly anyone out on the streets closer to all the beach houses. With the light breeze flowing through the air I could really smell the salt from the ocean and along my ankles, I could feel some dusty sand hitting my skin, which annoyed me. Harley was absentmindedly lighting yet another cigarette, and soon, I could see the white smoke in the air, too.

When we reached Harley's house and entered, the man immediately began taking off his jacket and shoes, still smoking his cigarette, which he had trapped between his lips. He didn't bother turning on any of the lamps, so the only source of light was from the setting sun or rising moon (I wasn't sure what was out right now). Harley walked over to me, taking the Chatot and examining it once more.

"I guess it's pretty cute. Worth the money I spent on that game."

In the dark, I saw the end of his cigarette light up in a red spark, brightening momentarily as he took a drag. I could see a bit of his features, but most of them were unrecognizable in the darkness. I smiled at the man when he handed back the plush to me. I wanted to say something, but I ended up yawning tiredly, and I covered my mouth to stifle the noise.

"Tired, huh?" the man said, and it was almost outrageous how already Harley's tone dropped to a sensuous volume as if he knew I was more likely to consent to his lechery now that we were in private.

And, just to amuse myself, I decided to play with him a little. "Yeah," I said, nodding and acting as if I was unaffected by his lusty tone. "I think we should go to bed."

"Bed?" he echoed. "It's bloody early!"

I set down the Chatot on the coffee table and kicked off my shoes quickly after. Deciding to grab my backpack, I walked a bit closer to Harley, purposely brushing against him before picking up my bag.

"What are you doing?" he wondered, taking a seat on the couch and watching me continue to explore my backpack. He crossed his legs properly and inhaled some smoke, holding a curious look on his face all the meanwhile.

"It's getting dark out," I explained, "and it reminded me of the Dusk Stone." I located the stone beneath many of my items, lifting the small velvet bag and feeling the material for a moment before taking out the stone.

Harley, exhaling a large puff of smoke, carried on his curious expression, but I could tell that beneath it, he was frustrated with me for ignoring his suggestive comment from before. I sat next to Harley—purposely very close so that our thighs were touching—and turned the stone into the pale light coming from the back window. The dark object glowed just a bit, and I held it up, showing Harley how it looked in the lack of light.

"Pretty," he proclaimed, sucking in some fumes. He took the stone away from me, touching the rough edges. "Let's play with this later though, huh?" He tried to grab the velvet bag from me, but I moved my hand.

"No!" I said. "I want to evolve Murkrow."

Of course, this was so far from the truth that it was hard to contain my laughter. I would never just randomly decide to evolve one of my Pokémon like this, and Harley knew that I wanted to wait, but it was insanely fun to witness the man getting so impatient.

"Now?" he asked, raising an eyebrow. "You haven't even trained the poor thing."

"He doesn't need it," I claimed. "I told you that already."

I grabbed the stone back and then—then I made my mistake—by bending down and reaching for my bag. As I did this, Harley made a quick move, snaking an arm around my stomach from behind and pulling me back up, only to plop me directly on his lap.

"I know what you're doing," he quietly said, putting out his cigarette on the ashtray. "And, sure, sure, you're cute, but I want to have real fun."

I ended up laughing, but then placed the velvet bag on the coffee table next to the Chatot. "Sorry, I couldn't help it," I admitted, still chuckling.

Harley reached down and stroked my neck with the back of a single finger. "You are just a little tease." He grinned and kissed the top of my head. "But, I'm far too smart for your games, Max." He pushed a hand underneath my shirt, feeling my skin.

Harley's lips were quickly on mine, spending several moments simply kissing me. I allowed his tongue in, colliding with my own, and soon, feeling behind my teeth and slithering against my moist walls. He tasted so metallic and rough, but I enjoyed the flavor from his warm tongue. Still sitting in his lap, he leaned my head back and began unfastening my shorts. Pulling apart momentarily, I watched as the man licked his lips, keeping his eyes locked on mine before slipping a hand into my shorts and going beneath my underwear. I let out a silent gasp, instantly closing my eyes and allowing his long, slender fingers to begin fondling my length.

I smiled into his touch, feeling each finger stroke me, slow and tormenting. A little impatient, I rose into his hand, forcing my own bit of fervency. Suddenly, just as I thought he was going to pull my shorts completely off, Harley lifted me up, pushing me against his chest and standing. Afraid I was going to fall, I clutched onto the man's shoulders and held on tight.

"What are you doing?" I demanded, frustrated to be interrupted.

Harley laughed viciously at my antsy grumble, explaining, "Don't worry, my sweet. We're just going upstairs. You know, where the bed is."

I sucked in my bottom lip as I allowed him to carry me through the living room and up the stairs. I knew I wasn't heavy, but I was still amazed by how he did this so comfortably, especially since he was running his hands through my hair the entire time. When we reached the bedroom, he gently placed me on the bed, and I removed my glasses, setting them aside just as I felt the bed dip with Harley's weight.

"Maximus," he softly called out, crawling on top of me. As he climbed further and further, he took off my shirt, quickly going back to slipping his hand into my shorts. "You make waiting worthwhile, I have to admit."

I lifted my arms to assist and copied the man by pulling off his own shirt. Harley smiled, happy to see me taking part, too, especially when I unbuckled his belt and helped him wiggle the long, green pants off his legs. I noticed Harley was fully hard, just like me, and I was glad because it made me feel less desperate. As soon as he managed to get his pants off and throw the attire on the floor, he guided my hand to his length, urging me to encircle it.

Harley smirked, feeling my ministrations work up and down his length before he stopped me by pushing down onto my thighs and spreading my legs. He was moving quickly, and allowing very little of a prelude before he made it obvious he wanted to be inside me. He spit into his own hand, preparing himself as he reached out and stroked me, too. I spread my legs a little further, allowing the man to sit between them so he could lift both up in his skilled manner. When he did, I rose my hips, allowing his enveloped hand to continue its work.

"Ah, H-Harley…" I whispered, feeling his body move about, hovering over. I encircled my arms around his shoulders, pulling him up just before he slowly pushed himself into my body, causing me to gasp. "Oh, Harley, I—"

In a moment of his own, Harley exhaled deeply, readjusting to the pressure from my entrance around his length. "You what?" he asked when I was unable to finish my sentence.

I shut my eyes tightly, lifting my upper-body as I felt the man sink fully into me. I moaned loudly despite myself, swinging my legs over his hips and clenching my teeth in a twist of pain and pleasure. Harley decided to gently slide my legs off him, wrapping his arms around the crooks as leverage when he began to push in and out of my body, creating a pace.

"I don't want to leave you," I revealed, dazed and overly tired. "I don't, Harley."

Harley continued pulling out and sheathing back in, but I witnessed his eyes close, avoiding eye-contact. "Likewise," he panted, and his grip tightened around my legs. "Christ, oh, I just love you, darling," he then lamented.

Blushing deeply, I pursed my lips and felt one of his free hands travel from my shoulder down to my hardness, beginning to pump it in his hand to heighten the pleasure. I returned his generosity, rising my hips into each of his downward thrusts. And, as his face hovered over mine, pressing into my neck, I could softly hear him panting my name over and over, just as lost in the same haze of lust as I was, but unable to forget about everything else.

Hard and fast, his thrusts drove deep into my body, sending a wave of delight through me before I ultimately felt my muscles begin to give out. Ready to reach my completion, I gave several upward jerks of my hips, allowing the man to push into me as roughly as we could allow.

"Yes, oh, yes, Maximus…" he panted, his lips trailing up my chin.

My body constricted, and I climaxed directly into the hand Harley had around me. The tightening of muscles caused Harley to give an excited exclaim before reaching competition, too, which I remarkably felt fill me, hot and sudden. I collapsed backwards, heaving with exhaustion from such an unexpected and fast act. I shut my eyes, feeling Harley fall forward, looming over me.

"Darling," he whispered, planting a kiss on my lips within his short pause, "you're not leaving."

I ran my fingers through the man's dangling hair, smelling it briefly. Somehow unconvinced his words were serious, I joked: "You really like to think you control me, don't you?"

"Well, I really ought to be able to, but you're young and so fucking rambunctious," he criticized.

I sighed heavily before kissing the man on the mouth, wanting to comfort him. "May already bought me a ship ticket," I reminded the man, still looking at him in the eyes.

Abruptly, Harley grabbed my chin, forcing me to look at him. "They'll refund her goddamn money," he told me, obviously trying to convince me I didn't have to go.

And, really, his words were convincing somehow. I knew that if it weren't for him, I would have returned home yesterday when May had originally told me she needed me there. It wasn't as though I'd have anything else to do, but now, with Harley, I had something preventing me. It simply wasn't fair that he was acting this way. He was so possessive over me, though I understood that if my sister was anyone but May he wouldn't be nearly as dramatic over this situation. Yet, what was I supposed to do? Ignore her? She was my sister—my only sister and my only sibling—and despite the fact we had our downfall, it wasn't right for me to say no to her when she had worked up the courage to ask for my help.

"Harley," I began, my volume low, "I'd promise to come back."

"That is, of course, unless she seduces you," the man seethed, his expression flat.

"That's not going to happen."

Harley rolled his eyes, removing himself from me slowly and then rolling over next to me. "Maybe not seduce you that way, but she'll pollute your mind with something to keep you away from me."

"That's not going to happen either, Harley," I argued. "For one, she doesn't even know about us, and even if she did, I wouldn't let her do anything like that."

Staring up at the ceiling, Harley said nothing for a very long time. I almost thought he fell asleep until I heard him exhale in annoyance. I couldn't help doing the same thing, suddenly just fed-up with Harley's childish refusal to understand that what was between May and I wasn't—and simply never could—be anything more than platonic. If I went back to Petalburg for a few days or a week, I'd come back. What I felt for Harley was so intense, and there was no way it would burn out just within a few days or not seeing him. I almost wanted to go even more now just to prove to Harley I would be back.

"What are you thinking about, Max?" the man soon voiced.

I turned to look at the man, who was still lying on his back, staring straight up at the ceiling like a robot. I frowned, surprised he didn't seem to want to look at me. I very calmly answered, "How I feel about you." Then, I added, "And, also how I need to go back home despite that."

The man's eyes shut. "But, you want my permission," he clarified dully. "Which is really quite funny considering how you deny I have any control over you."

"Permission isn't the right word, Harley," I told him, turning over and leaning my head against his upper-arm. "I just want your, blessing, maybe."

"Same goddamn thing," he grunted out. Just a second later, he then blurted out, "You know what, Max—just go. Go, because maybe now we can figure out if we're wasting our fucking lives by spending time with each other. Or, better yet, maybe you can figure out whether or not you want to sleep with your sister." Harsh and stiff, Harley's tone was anything but pleasant.

"Harley…"

"What?" he demanded. "I'm giving you my—what'd you call it? blessing?—so just accept it, and you can leave in the bloody morning." The entire time he said all this to me, he didn't even bother turning over or opening his eyes. He still remained on his back, seemingly frozen.

"Harley, stop," I urged, pushing my hand against his chest and sitting up. "You're not being fair to me."

But, Harley was done talking. In the dark room, where not even the moon was supplying any light, it was very hard to see whether or not Harley's eyes were open now. I noticed his breathing was hitched, obviously still upset, but trying hard not to show his emotions. Several minutes flew by before I decided to lay back down and get under the sheets, uncertain and nervous in each movement I made. But, knowing Harley was still awake, still fuming but calmly lying there, I realized that I needed to say something, just for my own sake.

"Okay, fine," I said. "I'll leave tomorrow."

xxxxx

-Harley-

I wasn't sure how either of us fell asleep last night, but somehow, we both managed. Well, at least, I did. I definitely fell asleep before Max, but so far this morning he didn't seem too tired, so I assumed he got some amount of sleep. At the moment though, as he picked at the last of his food, all his movements were very slow, and I was starting to realize he was dreading whatever was going to happen next, which, of course, even I was unsure about.

Outside, the sun was rising quickly, sending a rich combination of orange and yellow all throughout the skyline. Despite this, the light seemed gray and murky over the waves. A particular ray of light, dull and faint, was glowing through the window, beating over Max's figure as he ate.

Leaning against the kitchen counter, I watched the boy carefully, having finished my own breakfast moments ago. Last night, after our incredible fuck, everything went south, and part of me regretted allowing that to happen because we remained in a place of discomfort even now. We had barely spoken all morning, and even though I took the time to cook the boy breakfast, I was still unable to say or do anything else affectionate, which was very much unlike me. Especially since he looked just adorable right now: gently collecting bites of pancakes on his fork as the sun radiated from the windows and fell over his dark hair. I really wanted to walk over and kiss him on the forehead, but I controlled myself, still wanting to make a point.

After a long while, Max finished his meal and washed everything down with a large sip of his orange juice. There was still a strawberry left on the plate, coated lightly with the powdered sugar I specifically added just for Max. Apparently, he wasn't interested in the fruit, so when I collected his dishes, I picked up the strawberry and ate it. Max watched as I chewed, and although it was quick, I saw a smile form before disappearing. Afterwards, I rinsed the dishes and put them in the dishwasher, taking my time all the while.

However, when I turned back around, Max was no longer sitting on the stool. Instead, he was in the living room, reaching for the Chatot plush and stuffing it in his backpack. I furrowed my brow, closing the dishwasher and following him.

"What are you doing?" I asked him despite, very deep down, knowing.

Max stopped and looked up at me. Straightening his back, he seemed to immediately frown and become hesitant to speak. He narrowed his eyes. "Packing," he answered.

"Why?" I wondered, and I knew this all seemed very dumb to him, but the realization this was happening did not sit right at all.

"Um," the boy stuttered, seeming weak, "I probably should get going if I want to catch the ship at noon."

Clenching my teeth, I stormed over to the boy and grabbed his backpack from him. Startled, Max stepped back, staring at me helplessly, obviously nervous, even when I turned away, unable to face him.

"Harley…" he called out, and I heard him take a step forward, trying slowly to approach me.

I whirled around. "What?" I demanded.

"I told you I was going," he explained to me, "and you were fine last night."

I laughed cruelly. "Are you kidding me?" I scoffed out.

"You said you didn't care." Now, looking completely hurt, he narrowed his eyes again. "And, if you don't care, it shouldn't matter whether I leave or not. You've been unfair about this whole thing anyway."

"Unfair?" I echoed. "You don't even understand the half of it. I don't want you to go because you're going to see her."

"She's my sister," he said, making it like the millionth time. "I would come back, Harley, but now you probably wouldn't even want me to."

"That's not true, Max," I defended, tightening my grip on his backpack. "But, the problem here is that you won't come back, not after seeing her and realizing just how much she means to you and blah, blah, blah."

Max kept his eyes low. "Stop acting this way," he told me. "I don't want to leave on bad terms with you."

"You shouldn't be leaving at all," I threw back, folding my arms. "You agreed we were good for each other, didn't you? Now, look. God, you're such a little liar."

Color rose just a bit to his cheeks. "Yes, and I still think that, no matter how mean you're being now."

"Mean?" I rolled my eyes, chuckling as I shook my head. "You're leaving me for her."

"Stop making it sound that way…" he said, his voice growing weak. "Harley… I… I love you."

And, fuck,I suddenly hated that I ever said those words to him in the first place! Now he was using the statement and throwing it in my face, trying to make me feel bad when he was the one betraying me. And all for her: that cursed little trollop who had always screwed me over somehow! Now she was taking Max away from me! And, worst of all, she didn't even know about us. If I hadn't absolutely loathed that girl before, I sure did now.

Enraged, so completely enraged by what Max was saying and doing, I felt my breathing hitch, and I took a step forward, glaring at the boy harshly. "You know I hate her," I seethed, "and despite that, you are still fucking going!"

Max's eyes began welling up with tears. His lip began quivering as he controlled himself and just by sight, his whole body seemed to go cold. "Harley…" he whispered, looking up at me with disbelief.

"It doesn't matter why you feel the need to up and leave me. It doesn't matter why you think everything can be okay after you do this. You are betraying me for her, and you know how that makes me bloody feel, Max!"

"I'd come back…" he insisted weakly.

"I don't want you back after you fucking see her!"

And, now, the tears fell from the boy's eyes. His mouth dropped open, emitting a sob as he turned his head, embarrassed and ashamed.

Knowing I couldn't watch this, I distracted myself by lashing out more, shouting, "Don't act like you're hurt, Max! You have a fucking choice here!"

"I can't choose between my sister and you!" he yelled back, still crying. "I still want to be with you, Harley, but you're the one making it difficult!"

"Don't blame me for this," I muttered. "You're ending it. Not me."

"Ending?" he echoed, and suddenly his crying increased. "Harley, stop being so unreasonable! Just stop it! I don't know why you're doing it, but you're making everything worse!"

"Do you even remember the type of things she did to me?" I asked him. "Do you remember how she took away ribbons that should've been mine, and if not that, showed up just to piss me off? How could you forget how much I absolutely detest that girl!"

"She's my sister!" he shouted. "And I love her, and I don't even care what you think about her! She doesn't have anything to do with us! You're forcing her into this, not me."

"If you feel that way then get the fuck out, Max! Just go! I don't even care anymore! If you don't understand what she's doing to us then that's not my goddamn problem! So, just go!" I violently shoved the backpack into the boy's arms, pushing him back with even more force. "Just get out! I don't care!"

But, the boy wasn't budging. He was staring at me, his eyes still glazed over with tears and his cheeks wet from the fallen ones. Still an occasional sob beating forth, he stood there, managing to look up at me the entire time with such a sincere sorrow. I stared back at him, crazy with anger and disgust and betrayal and hurt and so many other things I couldn't label. It was Max I was yelling at—my sweet, innocent, adorable faunlet—and yet, I just didn't care anymore. I just didn't. If his fucking sister was more important then he just didn't matter anymore.

Nothing mattered.

Because he was leaving.

He was leaving for her.

I wished I had never walked into that Pokémon Center in Goldenrod City. I wished I had remained completely oblivious to the charms Max possessed. I wished his sister had remained so far back in my mind that she was forgotten.

And, then, Max moved. He turned around, his shoulders heaving for a second before he began walking towards the door. Completely on reflex, I stepped forward with an extended arm, ready to stop him. But, reality hit, and I stilled myself. The only thing I could do was watch the boy turn the doorknob and open the door. I shut my eyes, unable to witness the next thing, and a moment later, I heard the door shut.

I opened my eyes—oh, and I don't know why, but some part of me hoped he would still be there—but, of course, I saw nothing. He was gone.

Every part of my body grew weak, and the only thing I could do was shut my eyes, blocking out the sight of his absence. I turned, slowly, and looked around the empty living room. The sun, still so young in the early morning, was pale over the furniture, creating sad shadows beneath every open inch of the flooring.

My Maximus had left me.

And, somehow, he had the nerve to leave his fucking Dusk Stone on my coffee table.

End of Part Twelve