XVIII. Love

How does one define love? Butterflies in their stomach, rapid heartbeat, ecstasy, nervousness, lust? Truly one could paint a portrait of love with eloquent brushstrokes or poetic verses or charming speeches. You could talk of it endlessly, speculate over it your entire life, and respond uniquely every time you are asked what love is. Certainly, love can be described hundreds of thousands of ways, but I need only a single word: you.

May stood on the dock, gazing into the endless depths of the ocean. It glittered against the setting sun, blinding her at certain spots. It was painted in hues of violet, orange, and gold that any artist would be jealous of. The waves were calm, perfect weather for sailing, but she dreaded her departure. That would mean separation. Goodbye.

"Dawn and Brock are waiting for Zoey. She still needs to gather a few things since she's heading off too, after you set out."

She turned to see her former traveling partner, Ash, standing beside her.

"I'll miss her and Dawn. They were amazing at the contest. Their Pokémon were obviously enjoying it as much as they were," May commented. "Man, I can't believe the Wallace Cup is over already."

"Not ready to leave me yet?" Ash teased, causing her to blush furiously.

More than you think.

With a forced laugh, she said, "What do you think you are, a ladies' man?"

He grinned. "Well, I always seem to travel with a new one each time I switch regions. Maybe I'm more desirable than you think."

May laughed so hard that tears poured down her cheeks, and soon Ash joined with her. After a few moments they settled down, and May was faced with her oncoming parting once again. Slightly crestfallen, she spoke softly. "It's lonely journeying by myself. I have my Pokémon, but I miss the group: Brock's cooking, your gym battles, even Max's annoying know-it-all behavior."

Ash sighed. "I know what you mean. I really miss going to your contests."

She glanced over at him, puzzled.

"Don't get me wrong, Dawn's awesome," he quickly said before she could edge in a protest, "but I don't help her out much. I liked being your mentor and cheering you on." Ash kicked his foot on the sturdy wood beneath him. "I just miss you," he murmured so quietly May was almost positive she misheard him. Dumbstruck, she racked her brain for a reply, but before she could get out a word Brock, Dawn, and Zoey approached, along with her ship to Johto.

She held back, saying her goodbyes and lingering at the dock. Reluctantly pulling herself out of Dawn's bear hug, she turned once again to Ash.

"Well, goodb-"

She grabbed his shoulders and kissed him, putting all her emotions into a single gesture. Letting go when the last call was announced (far too early for either of their tastes), she winked and ran onto the boat.

"That's for the road!" she called from the stern.

Still in awe, Ash couldn't answer. Dawn slapped the back of his head and hissed, "Say something already!" When he still didn't respond, she nudged him forward. "Go on!"

Regaining his wit, he shouted, "When we meet again, I'll give you on to keep!"

By the time May yelled her reply, the vessel was out of earshot, fading into the horizon, but Ash knew what she was saying.

"Hurry!"