"Ugh, I just wanna sleep." Skye flipped her pillow to the unused cool side and turned over under the covers and satin sheets, facing Ruki, whose chin was on his paws while eyeing her. Her room's walls glowed faintly with soft pink light from the lava lamp. "Why don't you go sleep on the couch? I don't want to keep you up all night." It'd be midnight soon, and they had to be up by 9 a.m. He could always nap later, but Skye felt bad. She knew he was staying up because of her.
Ruki only moved closer, nudging her arm with his nose. Skye should know he wouldn't leave her side under any circumstance, especially when she felt anything other than her best. He could run on little sleep and get it back later as he never had much to do.
She brushed her hair out of her face and touched his side. "I can't show up with bags under my eyes, and I'd rather not have to put on makeup," Skye grinned. "Tell me everything's gonna go well tomorrow."
"Nin." He licked the top of her hand to reassure her. It really would go well, but after not seeing Aaron for a while, he could see why Skye would be nervous. The thing is, Aaron was probably just as nervous.
Her grin turned into a small smile. "Yeah, you're right. I'm just afraid of failure… but I've already spent time with him in person." Skye sighed. "Okay, time to sleep for real." She rested her cheek against Ruki's chest, curling up and hugging him. Among the silence, she heard traffic drive past the house and tropical winds blowing outside, but, you know, ones that were a lot warmer.
She'd try releasing the anxiety, stop overthinking, and calm down. It was just her mind running wild and keeping her mind active enough to where she was tossing and turning.
Like deja vu, Ruki awoke to an empty bed. He outstretched his paws and yawned, hearing the shower running on the other side of the wall, which he assumed Skye occupied. He sat up and went down to the floor, where he could stretch properly.
Upon him approaching the doorway, he smelled something sourcing from the kitchen. Skye's mother was likely cooking, and Ruki's curious nature and desire to eat urged him to check it out. He walked down the hall and entered the living room, sniffing the air until reaching and sitting on the kitchen floor, where Skye's mother was standing before the stove.
"Hey, Ruki," Skye's mother said upon noticing him. "Skye is showering and should be out soon. Did the aroma lure you?"
"Nine," he replied, a nod following. It always did. He could not wait to find out what was cooking.
"Well, I made you an egg if you'd like, hon." Vullaby and mandibuzz eggs were popular in Alolan cuisine and in homes due to their naturally rich flavor— despite how both pokémon look.
Ruki stood while swishing his tails. An egg just for him? Awesome. Skye shared her meals with him regularly, but it had been over a week since he'd eaten anything egg-related, and this one was all his.
She handed him a fried one off a plate on the counter, which he took in his mouth. "Don't inhale it."
At that moment, Ruki saw the restroom door open down the hall, and Skye emerged with a white towel around her waist and chest. He trotted after her while chewing and arrived— but not in time as she shut the door in his face.
She walked to her bed and picked her phone up but heard scratching on her door. Skye realized Ruki wasn't in her room and went to open it for him. "Sorry." She closed it after he entered.
He sat while chewing, swallowing the rest of his egg and sitting on the floor while licking his maw. Skye seemed to be in a rush, which was another serving of deja vu.
She dialed Aaron's number and let it ring while walking to her dresser. "Hello?"
"Hey, Skye?"
"Yes. I'm gonna leave soon. When do you think you'll arrive?" Skye sifted through her drawers of folded clothes.
"About fifteen minutes. Don't rush; I'll be waiting at The Marina for you with Sylmi."
"Perfect. Ruki and I will be there on time. See you then." Skye grabbed slim white jeans, a long-sleeved lace-up v-cut rose-colored tee, new panties, and a bra. She tossed her phone across the room onto her bed, pulled off her towel and did the same, then grabbed her purse off the closet's knob. "Be back."
Ruki watched her exit the room, using her clothes to cover her chest. He was elated. He hoped he could show Sylmi something in his city, as Ruki had several spots. He didn't know how the week would play out or how often they'd spend time in Hau'oli, but he'd try to introduce him to what made the city so marvelous.
Meanwhile, Skye was in the restroom, ensuring she looked presentable. She set her purse on the counter, slipped into her jeans, pulled her shirt over her head, and then stood at the mirror and pulled its drawstrings so the lacings tightened against her exposed chest.
"Hm…" Skye pulled the shirt's ends down, letting it fall over the front of her jeans. "This works," she muttered, pulling her hair down in a few areas and grabbing the concealer she kept on the counter. She padded some on her cheeks before opening the door and putting her purse on her shoulder.
"Ruki!" Skye called while walking down the hall toward the living room. Her mother was finishing up in the kitchen, and her father sat at the table. He must have just woken up. They looked to be talking but stopped when Skye entered.
"Leaving, hon?" her mother asked with a warm grin.
"Mhm…" Skye nodded, shooting a few nervous glances at her father, who sat in silence at first but must have felt the tension.
"Be safe, Skye," he said.
Ruki sat behind Skye and watched the exchange.
"And have a good time, of course," her mother added.
His words relieved her. Skye walked over and embraced her mother, then did the same to her father. He still hadn't said much about Aaron, but at least he hadn't been negative yet. Maybe he was ready to let her make decisions and support them, which would make her unimaginably happy. It's all Skye wanted from him. "I will… for both. Thank you. We'll be back in a few hours." She walked to the door and unlocked it, then slipped into her flip-flops. "Bye," Skye said before exiting with Ruki.
"What do you think?" her father asked.
"I don't think there's need to worry so far. Skye's never liked a boy this much in her life, and from what she told me, he's an upstanding one... supposedly," her mother replied. Skye wasn't experienced in this department and would need guidance, of course, but her mother was confident in her judgment. "We'll find out more as he comes around, but I feel we should hold steady for now and trust how we raised her."
"We'll be there just in time." Skye glanced down at Ruki as they headed west across the strip toward The Marina under lustrous sunlight. She took a short breath while wiping her shirt, relieved and less stressed now that they were on the way.
He had to trot to keep up with her pace, which was unusual since it was the opposite any other time, but he wasn't complaining. Ruki loved zooming whenever he could.
As they closed in just after ten minutes, they saw the ferry halt by the dock, populated with many others awaiting loved ones.
"Good timing," said Skye, catching up with the crowd and kneeling off to the side with Ruki. It'd get hectic once everyone started deboarding.
He sat, watching the ocean's mild waves to pass the time while leaning his upper body against Skye's leg. Ruki was almost nervous and didn't know why. Maybe Skye's passed to him. Sylmi was nothing to feel even a pinch of anxiety over, but Ruki also didn't know how to initiate or talk to him. They barely did in Sinnoh, and Ruki would be leading this time.
The wait lasted another ten minutes, the sun's gaze harshening. Ruki tolerated basking under it, but its heat warmed his fur too much and made him sweat after a while.
Skye had broken one already. She'd been wiping her face and hoping she wasn't red. She stood as the platform lowered, and the moment it was, everyone started exiting the ferry in an organized manner for the most part. At first glance, it was hard to scope an individual out of the crowd. Her heartbeat sped up while attempting to seek Aaron out, and when half of the people dispersed after several minutes, she saw him step down the platform.
He wore the same white and black jacket she remembered from Sinnoh with gray jeans. He also had a backpack over his shoulder for the week. Sylmi stood beside him.
Their eyes met, and Aaron stopped to admire the stunningly beautiful girl he hadn't seen in months, dressed adorably as usual. He didn't even know she had a purse, but it added to her personality.
This brought Skye and especially Ruki to Sylmi's attention, and unlike his trainer, made a quick beeline for Ruki.
Skye bit her lip, her chest tight, even more so when he walked in her direction while grinning, making her break a smile.
Aaron stood in front of her, and it took everything in him not to pull Skye into the tightest embrace he could muster, especially after seeing her priceless smile he'd longed for that had been etched into his memory since Sinnoh. Instead, keeping his eyes on hers, he first reached his hand into his jacket pocket and held his other out.
Skye gave him her hand, and he opened it, setting an intact pink watch in her palm. "Mh…" Her smile grew, and she nearly giggled. She brought up her arms and hugged him, pressing her cheek to his chest with a soft breath, her eyes closed.
Aaron did the same, holding her sides and savoring the warmth, life, and love she granted. It felt surreal to hold Skye again, and he was in Alola on top of it. This week would be flawless, better than any he'd experienced in a foreign region.
Ruki watched the heartwarming scene play out before him with a grin. He looked down and saw Sylmi sitting before him with his ribbon extended.
Ruki raised his paw, and they shook.
"Tu m'as manqué, Skye," Aaron said, eyeing her face as she pulled away.
"What's that mean?" she grinned, clutching her watch.
"It was me being dramatic. Means I missed you." He returned her grin.
"Shut up," she giggled. She forgot he lived in Kalos for a moment. It was super cute. "You had the accent and everything, though." She slid her watch onto her right wrist and took his hands into hers, squeezing them before releasing them. "I missed you too... Let me show you my city."
Aaron looked past her at Hau'oli's sun-soaked structures. "Please do." The climate was warm, and the environment was welcoming. The streets and buildings were tidy, with not a streak of graffiti present. He saw city workers with trucks double-parked by curbs and picking up fallen palm leaves and branches under trees, tossing them in the back. He felt joy just looking at everything.
They exited The Marina beside and took a right, with Ruki and Sylmi trailing closely behind.
"We'll go to the Shopping District first. Have you ever tried malasadas? They're offered on ferries sometimes, I think." The district was one of Hau'oli's most popular landmarks, sure to satisfy any tourist with its abundance of extortionate restaurants and shops that offered great meals and souvenirs.
"No, but it's like… bread, right?" He had come across them while researching Alola but never looked into them.
Skye pulled out her phone for a brief moment to check the time. "Fried, and Ruki has an addiction to them."
Skye wasn't wrong. Ruki listened closely at the mention of his favorite food item. Sylmi would like them too; Ruki was certain. He'd watched many foreign pokémon try them for the first time here and get blown away, as they should.
Aaron double-glanced at her purse and phone case now that he was closer and could chuckle. She had a Nyta setup, and their products started at 300,000 pokédollars minimum. "You're lucky to live here… Seems like paradise every day." The humid air, palm trees swaying and rustling against breezes, and overall comfortable setting granted the city a sense of serene safety. Aaron kept his eyes on the people and surroundings. "How many people live here? Can't be anything like Lumiose."
"Oh, uh... It's been a while since my geology class but aroundd one point five mil. People from all around the world live here. Hau'oli is diverse, and it's always hyper-busy here because of tourists, but our government puts a lot of money into keeping the city spotless. Not much crime either compared to other regions since authority has no tolerance for it.
We have surveillance cameras everywhere, and laws are far more stringent when compared to every other region. The consequences are super severe for violent crimes and sexual assault, and you could get fined for so much as PDA. Alola's main issues are, I think, human trafficking and underpaid labor, which the government has tackled over the years, but we typically don't harm each other. There is unison, and family is big. We have morality that I hope's maintained as the region develops.
We also rid of many corrupt officials in power so they don't get away with everything just because they have money. I think that's important since that can get out of hand fast." If Skye loved anything about her region, it was its safety factor and overall cordial demeanor."
She continued. "And tourism also increased the price of living here a lot in the last two decades after air travel hit the scene. We saw more traffic in and out than ever before, but our house has been in my family forever." Skye was lucky to live here, but she felt she'd be happier in any other region sometimes. Her parents may be partly to blame. "And if you think this is paradise, wait 'till you're at the resort later. I've only stayed there once, but I would love to again." She'd gone with Ruki and her parents for three days years ago and had an unforgettable time. A lot of money was spent.
"If you're comfortable, you can visit Sylmi and me there." Aaron offered with caution as he didn't want to overstep. He was still searching for balance.
"What? What do you mean? Of course I will." She looked at him. "Did you forget why you're here?"
Did he offend her? What an idiot. "No, no… you know, I just…"
"I know, I know," Skye giggled. "You're super sweet."
"Nini." Ruki swished his tails, brushing them against the side of Sylmi's body as a prompt to follow before trotting toward the populated Shopping District.
Of course, Sylmi followed. He was excited enough that he'd forgotten to get permission from Aaron.
"They'll be fine," said Skye. "Ruki knows where the shop is."
Within five minutes, they entered the square. Skye had to explain to Aaron why there were so many wild rockruff, lillipup, and herdier present by crowded outdoor restaurants and tables. Tourists usually fed them, and it stuck after years of doing so. It was the District's harmless issue that made most visitors happy and the cleaners' jobs harder. Short gates fenced off outdoor seating, but the pokémon could slip through the gaps.
The District stretched for miles with wide walkways and many turns, resembling a maze. There were lines of various designer clothing stores that spoiled teens with pampered pokémon entered and left with multiple bags— some of their pokémon even wore designer mini shirts, necklaces, bracelets, and other accessories. Skye had bought Ruki a few clothing pieces when he was a vulpix that were stuffed in her closet.
Older adults on the grounds wore foreign casual and more traditional wear, but younger generations followed foreign voguish fashion trends more than ever through popularized social media in the past decade and the induction of many foreign clothing stores into the region.
Veela had been the most popular platform until roughly six years ago. It had a good run but was surpassed by several newer and more innovative ones, as it had failed to keep up grew outdated. It had also lost a lot of staff during the war and especially afterward, not to mention many people around the world no longer wanted to support the Accord. The go-to social media now was the one she used often: 'Sozi.'
Lamp posts were posted along the sides of walkways, and mini lights lined the walls of buildings that were activated at around 7 p.m. They were also spotted with active CCTV cameras.
There were eateries, sophisticated food stands, and arcades in which children and adults alike were having fun in. Pokémon like machop and sneasel played air hockey or skeeball with their owners.
Children played at claw machines in attempts to win pokémon plushies, others played arcade racers and fighters, and pokémon owners of all ages let their pokémon play games in a large section exclusive to them. They let pokémon train their abilities while having fun.
A wide array of machines spread across all types and their corresponding abilities, such as one for fire types that had the pokémon enter a transparent heatproof box and heat it to a specific temperature and one for ice types that Ruki loved the most. He had third place on the machine as of last month, where Skye had typed his name in.
The game's goal was to focus an ice beam and completely freeze over a large, elevated ball in the center. Ruki's fastest time was just under five seconds.
Away from the arcade, there was a dedicated building by a clothing shop called the: 'Alola Tourist Bureau' that functioned as a help center, advertised various attractions, upcoming events, and tours around the region, and doubled as a souvenir shop to make some extra money. It was known for its twenty-minute promotional video on Alola that people could sit before a large screen and watch. It explored the region's beauty among all four islands and touched vaguely on the fascinating history behind them and specific events throughout Alolan culture.
A section farther ahead, off to the side set up by the city, allowed farmers and people with licenses to advertise and sell foods and items from home under tents to provide shade. Hundreds of curious tourists and returning customers congregated there daily to purchase the freshest berries, alolan-ninetales-themed snowglobes and accessories, and more. The district was a happy and relaxed atmosphere, as was Alola's culture in general. It was in Skye for the most part. She just tended to stress easily.
They walked a few stores down past crowds, noisy, full tables with children slipping hungry herdier and lillipup scraps and fries from their plates under tables, and meat sizzling on grills or slow roasting on rotating bars with lines at the corresponding stands.
Aaron noticed people, even stand runners often double-glancing at Ruki, and visitors smiling, staring, or tapping their friend, partner, or parent with enthusiasm to look as well while Ruki passed, exclaiming how beautiful he was and whatnot. "So, uh, is alolan ninetales rare to see here?" he asked Skye.
"Well, not generally, but they're basically our mascot. Admired and highly respected, and they make businesses a lott of money. It's a highlight for a tourist to see one while on their stay here."
They saw someone exit the quaint malasada shop ahead and hold open the door for Ruki and Sylmi with a grin.
"That's adorable," he chuckled. "That bread must be irresistible." Aaron pushed open the door when they arrived and held it for Skye.
"Thank you." There was a short line consisting of three people Ruki sat behind with Sylmi. The store strived to appear welcoming with yellow walls adorned by mixed paint designs and stands displaying products to buy, mostly malasada related. It was cool inside too, but not enough to make one shiver.
Ruki's eyes were on an alolan vulpix beside their black-haired female trainer ordering at the front counter, mainly because that used to be him months ago. Some of him still couldn't believe it, but he wouldn't go back for anything.
Sylmi looked up at Ruki, then back to the vulpix he was staring at as it and its trainer left the store. That must be his pre-evolution. He wasn't too familiar with alolan forms, but they looked similar.
That's when the vulpix noticed Ruki and stopped some feet before him, curious. It hadn't seen a ninetales up close and received a mellow enough vibe from Ruki to feel somewhat safe.
"Luma, come on!" its trainer called, and the vulpix walked away, glancing back while exiting the store.
Skye glanced at the door but turned to Aaron again. "How many do you and Sylmi want?" she asked, pulling her purse down her arm and reaching inside it while getting in line. She had a specific pocket she kept her cash in, another holding her region I.D., and another with lip balm, deodorant, and emergency nail polish. Her purse was kind of empty besides a few loose old receipts. She tried to keep it organized and free of junk.
"Oh, that reminds me. I'm paying this time."
She stopped. "No, it's–"
"You paid in Sinnoh. Let me." Aaron had saved enough money to do so and recently had gotten a small credit line with a bank in Kalos.
He was right. It was only fair. "Ah… alright. You can."
They moved up in line as the minutes passed, and the last customer they were behind took forever to order, probably a tourist. Skye approached the counter after they paid and left, waiting for the cashier to return from the back.
"If it isn't Skye and her hungry ninetales." An older, chubby black-haired tan woman with an off-white and stained apron came to the counter.
"Aloha, Miss Makani. Back again." Miss Makani was the manager and knew Skye as a regular because of Ruki's malasada obsession. She usually gave her discounts and was always kind.
"Apologies. Is this fella with you too?" Miss Makani nodded to Aaron.
"Mhm..." Skye grinned while looking away. People that knew her around here had never seen her with a boy, and she had no idea how to introduce Aaron, but there was a chance he'd start accompanying her more in the future.
"Must be a relative visiting, eh— ehm, or no, a boyfriend, and what would you like?" Miss Makani asked, seeing two families enter the store and get in line behind them.
Skye couldn't ignore that question but didn't know how to reply. It reminded her of Jeffrey's statement back in Sinnoh, except it was her turn this time. "More of the latter..." She made an effort to say it loud enough to hear, or else she would have mumbled it. "And we'll take four normal malasadas." While only one flavor was available, different dishes utilized the bread and filling on the menu and behind the glass beneath the counter.
Aaron was grinning as well, though he tried to hide it. He didn't want to complicate Skye's daily life, but being introduced to people she was familiar with as something more than a friend made him feel special and warmed his chest.
"Ahh." Miss Makani raised her eyebrows and nodded. "Isn't that sweet. I'm happy for you. How long has this been going on?" she asked while ringing up the order and glancing at Aaron. "And what's your name, young man?"
Aaron glanced from her to Skye. She'd asked two questions between him and her, so he wasn't sure when to speak, but he felt Skye nudge his hand with hers, which he'd assumed was a green light. "T-Two months, ma'am. My name is Aaron."
"Oh my, and you aren't from here, are ya'?" Miss Makani could tell by his features as Alolans looked different, not to mention the apparent accent.
"Kalos, ma'am." Aaron was very used to that question since he got around a lot.
Yeah. We met in Sinnoh," Skye said, glancing back as the line got longer.
Miss Makani grimaced at the displeased look on some people's faces and stepped back from the register. She couldn't conversate anymore and risk losing business. "I'll go grab the dough, but you two are a lovely sight." She looked between Skye and Aaron, then focused on Skye. "I've got to say it was priceless watching you grow up. I remember you coming in your uniform with Ruki every other day, and now you're— How old are you now?"
"Eighteen," Skye said. She remembered those days. She spent all day at the academy and stopped home after school to drop off her backpack and grab Ruki while in uniform to bring him for a treat after being away all day. Her uniform was a rich dark red overall dress skirt with a long-sleeved white shirt underneath, and she used to wear black buckled flats as the school had a code for suitable footwear. He was always so excited to see her walk through the door.
"Right. To be a keiki..." She looked at Aaron. "A child. Young and falling in love. I had those wonderful days too. Had to be the most amazing I had ever felt. A new and true rush. Cherish them because they only come once," Miss Makani chuckled. "Apologies. Enough talk story. I know I sound like a grandma. I'll be back."
Skye watched her walk off and giggled, glancing at Aaron. She didn't mind. Miss Makani was a sweet woman, but Skye hoped it didn't weird Aaron out.
"She's nice. Is everyone around here like that?" He would be amazed if so. Kalos was the opposite for the most part. It was a fast-paced and more earnest society.
"Pretty much. I like to say it's all the sun we get," Skye replied.
Nine!" Ruki said to try and grab her attention. He'd been waiting for the conversation to end and didn't want to miss his chance.
Skye looked down at him. "Hm, baby?"
He shifted his eyes to the malasadas on display behind the glass, then stared at her.
"You want another one for later, don't you?" Skye glanced back at the line that was getting no shorter. This'd add another minute or so, but it shouldn't hurt.
So Skye ordered one more for him after Miss Keller returned and got a fifteen percent discount before Aaron took his card from his wallet and swiped it in the card terminal. That made Skye want credit even more. She wanted something to build and work on. She had to bring it up to her parents soon. "Mahalo!" she said while leaving.
After they were out of the store with Aaron holding the bag, Skye deliberated on where next to take him. "Hey, are you tired? I know you've been on a cruise for two days," she asked.
"Kind of, but I got some sleep." He wasn't about to say yes and kill their day together. Aaron would deal with it and rest later.
"We could just sit at the beachfront. It's near where I live, and I noticed you told Miss Keller Kalos when she asked where you're from. You hesitated before saying Johto when I asked back then. I'm just curious." Skye wasn't trying to call him out.
"I'd like that." Alola's beaches were a substantial part of its tour advertisements, so Aaron wanted to see one. He felt he could tell Skye anything and that she'd understand. She was bound to catch on the more time she spent around him anyway. "I hesitate because of Johto's history. It's... not a favored region, and people tend to look down on those from it, so I'd rather say Kalos and avoid the potential fiasco. It's happened throughout my travels. Nothing big, but I could see the shift in treatment sometimes."
"Oh... They judge you for it." That hurt. Aaron just lived there at one point and had nothing to do with the war. Skye knew all about that from living here. She looked at him. "I'm sorry. People can be so cruel, but you're from when you're from, you know? I don't think hiding the fact will make it any better for you."
"Definitely right, just... It's tough. Anyway, I'm sure you hit the beach daily, huh? You and Ruki?"
Skye continued east past the many stores lining the center toward the exit, Ruki and Sylmi still wandering ahead. She wanted to take Aaron and Sylmi down Route 2 but didn't want to overwhelm them. Another time. "We used to. We still go a lot since it's right out front, and it was always a huge part of Ruki growing up, so he loves it still."
Ruki realized he likely wouldn't have time to show Sylmi his favorite spot either. Still, he showed him a few of his and Skye's frequented stores along the way, and they came across delicious scents sourcing from multiple restaurants.
Sylmi stayed close to him during the entire walk, eagerly looking and pointing out whatever caught his eye until they arrived. The scenery was breathtaking.
"Lot of people here." Aaron had been to packed beaches, but it was always a sight. There were countless pokémon and children in the water, people surfing and playing ball at posted nets in the sand, and others lying under umbrellas on blankets, not to mention everyone buying from the line of businesses or scootering and cycling. Vendors with carts also walked the sand, selling cold drinks and ice cream.
"I know... It's usually like this since, as I said, tourism is a staple and keeps the city running. We just won't sit close to the water." Skye walked less than a mile inward before sitting in the sand and crossing her legs, taking off her flip-flops and setting them beside her.
Aaron sat by her and set his backpack aside, giving some space, and Ruki and Sylmi some feet ahead. The air smelled like the city's— or no, the city smelled like the beach. It was built on its front, after all.
"Nine... tales." Ruki looked beside him at Sylmi. He told him that watching views like this was one of his favorite hobbies, as was swimming, which he did a lot of. Rain was another. He was drawn to the environment and thunder that stormy days produced.
"Sylv," Sylmi agreed. Nature is a favorite of all pokémon. Hau'oli was vibrant and made him happy. He glanced down at Ruki's paw, tempted to hold it, but he wouldn't take such a risk out of nowhere. Sylmi was content sitting with him.
Skye looked at her watch. "It's touching you took care of it."
"I kept it on my dresser and cleaned it every week… The only extension I had of you... and speaking of watches." Aaron reached into his other jacket pocket and took out a semi-expensive white one he'd saved up from doing small jobs. It was slightly bulkier than Skye's. "Matches your color scheme, doesn't it?"
"Aaron…" she giggled under her breath, eyeing it. "Put it on."
He did, sliding it onto his right wrist.
Skye switched the wrist hers was on and took Aaron's hand, intertwining their fingers so their watches touched.
Aaron tightened their grip and looked at her. "It's not weird, right?"
She shook her head. "It's too cute. I love it." Skye looked at him as well, running her thumb over the top of his hand. She liked very much that he was the romantic type.
"You know, uh, my mom wouldn't stop asking about you for like a week after I told her I'd met a very special girl in Sinnoh."
"Really?" Her cheeks were warm already.
"Really. She was excited and kept asking when you'd come to Kalos and stuff." Aaron had told his mother great things about Skye, and she was happy he'd finally found a nice girl he liked, especially one from Hau'oli.
"Awe, she sounds so sweet, honestly. One day, huh?" Skye would want to consider them established if everything went right between them for a second week.
"No rush at all... I want you to be comfortable with the process." Aaron still didn't want to turn her off. He wasn't even sure if telling her what he did was a good idea, but he wanted to test the waters.
Don't worry. It's been moving as it should." Skye looked at the bag he had. "We should eat. I know Ruki wants his malasada."
They stayed for a little over an hour, and Sylmi enjoyed his snack so much that Ruki gave him half of his. It was something he'd never do, but it was Sylmi's first time in Alola, and Ruki had another malasada to eat later and five more he'd consume by next week that Skye would buy him.
It was almost noon, and Skye wanted to show Aaron more, but she realized how tired he appeared. "I think you should go check in to the resort. You'll be in Alola for a week. We'll have a lot more time to spend together," she said while they walked back to the pavement.
"Right. I'm just really enjoying our time now. Can I at least walk home with you?"
"Yeah, my parents want to meet you anyway." Skye turned right, walking toward her house a mile down.
"Oh, it'd be great to meet them so they can know who you're seeing." They had to be excellent people. Just look how Skye turned out.
"Exactly." Skye just hoped they didn't embarrass her, but she had faith.
Meanwhile, Ruki made a mental note not to jump into Skye's bed once inside as he'd been sitting in sand. He rarely made the same mistake twice. Well, at least as a ninetales.
When they reached the residence, Skye had Aaron stand back while unlocking the door, and after opening it, saw that only her mother was present at the dining room table in a casual tee and pants.
Aaron was eyeing their cute upscale home, although outdated, and saw a white four-door luxury sedan in the driveway before their closed garage.
"Skye! Back early?"
Skye nodded.
"Is he there?" her mother mouthed.
She nodded again, sucking her lip to hide a shy smile and beckoning her over.
Aaron approached after Skye stepped aside, and her mother was at the door.
"You're the one she gushed so much about, hm?" Skye's mother eyed his clothing and studied him briefly but didn't make it obvious. "Aaron, correct?"
Skye knew that was coming. She attempted to hold back an inevitable blush.
"Yes… ma'am, it's nice to meet you." He reached out his hand and shook hers. Skye's mom was kind so far, but he could feel a sense of sternness.
While that was happening, Ruki slipped past and prompted Sylmi to follow him inside, which he did.
Skye was currently more focused on her father coming from down the hall. He wore jeans and a burgundy button-up shirt he must have thrown on, and he most definitely saw Aaron. Anxiety filled her to the brim.
Aaron's as well, as her father's demeanor seemed austere and not nearly as warm as Skye's mother's, not that he expected it.
Meanwhile, Ruki was busy showing Sylmi around the house, Skye's room first.
Sylmi looked around and lifted the blanket with his ribbon to check under the bed. This room was significantly less boring than Aaron's and about as colorful as him, but he'd seen another one while walking down the hall. Without Ruki, he exited and walked back down, turning at Skye's parents' bedroom, but Sylmi was instead met by a rough-looking lycanroc.
"And, you feel safe with him, right, Skye?" her father asked, looking Aaron up and down, and boy, did he make it more than obvious.
"Yes, Dad, of course." Such an awkward question. It could have waited until after Aaron left.
"Well, if she likes you…" He extended his arm. "Then I guess I can too as long as you mean no harm. She doesn't deserve disrespect." He didn't want to ruin the day for his daughter, but Aaron had more to prove to earn his approval.
"No, n-never. Of course not, sir. She's amazing." Aaron shook his hand and received a rather firm grip.
Her father nodded. "We'll see."
"Nin?" Ruki hadn't realized Sylmi's absence initially, but he left the room and saw him frozen by Ru's glare, causing Ruki's eyes to dilate. He shouldn't have let Sylmi stray off.
"Vee..." Sylmi attempted what he did with Ruki and raised a ribbon to shake, but Ru wasn't interested.
Ru had just woken up from a nap, and an unknown young sylveon was trying to barge into the room. He assumed this was Ruki's friend, but Ru wasn't looking to make new acquaintances or meet new company. Who was this?
"N-Nih." Ruki approached and nudged Sylmi's hip, walking toward the living room while apologizing to Ru, and fortunately, Sylmi caught on and followed quickly while glancing back.
"Well, the next cruise to Akala leaves in roughly thirty. You're best off leaving now since you have to buy the ticket," Skye's mother told Aaron. "And I think your pokémon is inside with Ruki." She looked back and saw them sitting in front of the couch.
"Mom, can they stay for a sec? I want to talk to Aaron…"
"Sure, honey, just let me know. I'll leave you two be." She closed the door.
Skye took a breath and turned to him with a smile. She placed her hand on his chest and could feel his heart racing. She spoke in a hushed tone, "oh my gosh. You were super tense, weren't you? I so was."
"Completely. I've literally never been in that situation, but I did okay, right?" Aaron grinned, full of lingering nerves.
"Mhm…" Skye took his hand in hers and pulled him closer, looking into his eyes. "It's going so well." Better than she thought, honestly, even though her father was annoying. It wouldn't hurt for him to loosen up.
Aaron had to analyze Skye before realizing what she wanted, and he did just as much. He didn't expect it, especially this quickly into the visit, and it was another foreign situation for him. Aaron could feel tightness in his chest and butterfrees in his stomach. He placed his free hand on her hip, leaving them inches apart and gazing into each other's eyes.
Maybe kissing on her doorstep wasn't ideal, especially when a passing ranger could stop and hit them with a 13,700 pokédollar fine, but Skye couldn't go another day without it. There were no green and white ranger cars in sight, and not many people were passing by at the time, so she wouldn't feel too embarrassed or feel much risk to display such affection publicly.
She'd imagined it several times during their long-distance relationship and had to go for it the moment the chance presented itself. She puckered her lips slightly and leaned up.
Aaron felt his cheeks get hot and knew he had to close the distance, which he did within the moment, connecting their lips.
Skye shut her eyes, savoring their passionate kiss under the afternoon glare, and she raised her free hand, placing it on his cheek. It was as satisfying as she imagined, sending chills and endless warmth through her body. She held it, her worries and anxiety leaving her, and everything about him and this beautiful kiss replacing it.
Aaron leaned into her hand, deepening it and closing his eyes as well, relishing her soft lips against his. The most they'd done was hug, so this was progression in their relationship and the deepest step they'd taken so far. He'd fantasized about them kissing in his head daily— this, among many other things, both wholesome and not, and one being fulfilled made his week already.
She broke it and heard a subtle smack from their lips as she did. She didn't want her parents to catch them. It'd be awkward, and she wouldn't hear the end of it in the form of an unnecessary lecture later. "I've wanted that for a while now…" she exhaled. Skye rubbed his cheek with her thumb before letting her hand slip, maintaining eye contact and squeezing his hand.
Aaron let go of her hip, still eyeing her face. He had a lot to say, but it was reduced to him cherishing Skye's beauty and voice, that she chose him, and that she'd kissed him for the first time.
"You should go before it's too late." It was the last thing she wanted, but she had to remind herself that this was only the start of the week, and Aaron needed to settle.
"...When do you think we'll see each other again?"
"Call me tonight."
Skye thought all day about the kiss she shared with Aaron. It was so dreamy and would likely have lasted longer if they hadn't been standing in front of her parents' door. Perhaps she should have waited for a better time to commit to a first kiss, but she couldn't have contained her tension and urge. Besides, they could share it again soon. It warmed her inside just thinking about it, and she'd never forget how his lips felt against hers.
It was evening, and Skye awaited his call while lying in bed alone in comfy sky-blue shorts and a tee. It ate at her that Aaron was in her region, yet he and she were apart. It brought a pinch of restlessness and a lot more loneliness. Ruki was in the living room or kitchen, likely having supper, and Skye would call him in a while since he always lifted her spirits.
Little did she know, Ruki was already heading down the hall to her nearly closed door, eager to have his second malasada for dessert. He nudged it open with his nose and slipped through, approaching the bed. Ruki wasn't sure whether or not Skye was asleep. She wasn't moving, but it was still early.
She saw her door open and lifted her head from the pillow. "Hey." He must have read her mind.
He didn't hear the jubilant tone he usually did, so Ruki suspected something was bothering her. He stood on his hind and placed his front two on the mattress, asking for permission.
"Yeah. Come up, baby," Skye said while sitting up.
Ruki did, taking a few steps and sitting in front of her while keeping his eyes on her face.
"What?..."
Ruki knew Skye like the back of his paw. She knew what he was asking.
"Oh, it's not much… Stupid, really." Skye leaned back against the bed's headboard. "I've never had feelings this intense before… Well, besides when it comes to you." She grew a subtle grin and patted her thigh, watching him lie his upper half between her legs. Skye pulled him up and let his paws rest atop her lap.
She looked ahead at her curtain rippling against a draft. "It was simple when it was you and me... It's not that I don't love him. I feel I do. I guess this was bound to happen eventually. It's just a mixture of feelings to deal with." Skye looked down at Ruki, who was gazing intently at her the whole time she spoke. "You're a great listener. Has to be boring hearing me vent about my emotions."
"Nn." Ruki nudged her stomach with his nose. He'd always be present to listen to what was on Skye's mind. He made her feel better while listening to her voice and got to follow her life, something she could keep to herself if she chose to instead of sharing with her pokémon. There wasn't a downside in his eyes.
Skye felt her phone vibrate beside her and picked it up. "Ah, it's him." She answered it. "Aaron?"
"Hey, Skye," he replied.
"Are you at the resort? Get settled?" She ran her hand down Ruki's back while listening.
"Yep, showered and all. Sylmi and I have to explore more later. They seem to have a store for everything, so I'll have to resist spending more money than I have. Why don't you come to Hano next unless you have another idea?"
Skye didn't consider the resort as their very next location. "No, that's so perfect. I'd love to. Is the day after tomorrow too soon? I know you two need to rest, and I'm sure we'll be there all day."
"You could never be too soon. Sylmi and I've yet to sit properly anyway. We'll probably rest in Kalos."
She smiled. Aaron's comments were always cute. "Mkay. I'll call in the morning so we can set it up then. Talk soon. Nini."
She couldn't sound any cuter. "Sleep well."
She ended the call, set her phone aside, and noticed Ruki giving her a look of inquiry. She already knew what it meant and giggled, "yes, of course I'm taking you, silly. We're going to the resort in two days."
"Ninee!" He swayed his tails and sat up to meet her height. He was more stoked than ever and couldn't wait. That'd be a grand adventure and an unforgettable day. Ruki hadn't been there or to Akala Island in years.
Skye giggled again at his reaction and scritched his cheek with her finger. "You want your second malasada?" She didn't want it firming over.
Ruki had completely forgotten about that since he was too concerned for Skye after entering the room. He nodded. For some reason, he was briefly reminded of the poffin he ate back in Sinnoh and wished he could have another right now— not that he needed one. He had endless malasadas here, and poffins didn't hold a candle. Ruki frequently tried to shake poffins from his mind and focus on the superior bread.
She slid off her bed and went to reach into the bag she put on her dresser, taking the malasada out of its packaging and standing before him at the bed's edge afterward. "Here." Skye handed it to him.
Ruki didn't take it, however. "Nin." He nudged the malasada toward her with his nose.
"...What, you want to split it? I figured you wanted it to yourself since you gave half to Sylmi."
He wanted Skye to eat as well. He knew she'd been in bed most of the day, and maybe a sweet snack would help how she was feeling even more. He waited for her to tear it.
"Mh, I guess I could use a bite." Skye split it down the middle, giving Ruki the bigger half. She sat beside him, leaning her cheek on his shoulder while he chewed. "You're a sweetheart."
Skye didn't know what she'd done in life to come across him that day at Lanakila. A part of her felt she didn't deserve Ruki sometimes, but she couldn't imagine how life would be without him, not to mention how awful her younger years would have been that he carried almost singlehandedly. Emptier and less bright, that's for certain.
