The next day, Serena woke up fairly early and decided to head straight to the shower. As she walked to the bathroom and past Ash's room, she was surprised to hear faint snoring. It was very rare that she was up before him. He must have been super tired from the last two days, she thought. Serena hoped he was sleeping well and continued towards the bathroom. She put on a playlist from her phone and got the water running. Serena was slowly starting to get used to the idea of staying at Ash's house. She had no idea how long she was staying for, but could probably stay there forever. She was very comfortable and happy there, but at the same time she didn't want to overstay her welcome. She pondered on it as she rubbed shampoo into her hands and washed her hair. Delia was more than okay with accommodating her, but she didn't realistically see herself living there long term. Maybe she and Ash could look into getting their own place… but would Ash want to live with her? Alone? Wasn't that more a thing couples did? Serena thought of every possibility and then found herself getting distracted again by the idea of being together with Ash.

Serena decided to stop worrying about the future, as she rinsed the soap off her and turned the taps off. She wrapped a towel around her and dried herself. Then she put on a fresh pair of clothes and brushed her teeth. She examined herself in the mirror and straightened her hat, but then gasped and put her hand on her chest. She'd almost forgotten to put her ribbon on! Serena quickly rectified it and tied it on. Now she was ready to begin her day. She considered waking Ash up, but thought this could be a good opportunity to really get to know Delia. She was so kind to let her stay, it was only right that she was as respectful as she could be in appreciation of that. She hummed a song to herself and strolled out, feeling like today was going to be a good day. Something was smelling good as she stepped out into the hallway, so Serena assumed Delia was cooking breakfast.

As she approached the kitchen, she could hear muffled voices. Now who could be in the kitchen with Delia this early in the morning? Serena thought of Professor Oak first. He did come to visit Delia a lot, but as she got closer she didn't hear the voice of a man at all. She reached the door and was a little hesitant to push it open. Then she wondered if Misty had come back. She didn't live too far away, so it was possible. Serena was ready for her - if it was her anyway. She decided she couldn't wait any longer and made her way in. Delia was sitting at the table with another woman about the same age as her. They were both drinking coffee and stopped talking to see who was there. Serena squealed and ran over to the woman.

'Mum!' she cried happily.

Delia was happy to see Serena so happy. Grace stood up and embraced her daughter in a loving hug. They hadn't seen each other for a long, long time. Serena squeezed her tight.

'You're hugging me a bit too tight there, Serena!' laughed Grace.

She looked down at her daughter and saw she was quite emotional. She kissed her head and soothed and mothered her. Then she heard quiet sobbing.

'Hey, hey? What's wrong? I'm here now.'

'It's just that I've felt so bad that I haven't come to see you all this time,' muffled Serena into her mother's chest.

'It's okay, baby. You had to go achieve your dreams and be amazing. And I've been keeping an eye on you too. I just wish you told me you were coming here!'

Serena wiped a tear from her face and let go of her mum. Grace flicked a strand of hair away from her face and brushed her cheek delicately with her fingers.

'Oh, yes! I'm so sorry! I was meaning to tell you. But the last few days have just been a whirlwind!'

'It's okay, Serena. Professor Oak passed the message on to Professor Sycamore and he told me you were here. I was hoping to make it yesterday for the party, but my flight got delayed. Thought this would be a nice surprise.'

'Oh, it is mum! Thank you for coming!'

'You're welcome, dear. Always wanted to see Kanto anyway and Delia and I are getting along like a house on fire!' Serena laughed.

'Well, that's good to know.'

'So… Where's Ash? I need to congratulate him and thank him for looking after you all this time!'

'Oh. Um. He's still sleeping I think. Think the jet lag must have suddenly hit him!'

'Yeah, that's probably it. It'll be hitting me too soon!'

Delia got up and continued making breakfast, while Serena filled her mum in on everything that had happened to her on both her journey in Hoenn and her journey with Ash. They had talked every now and then on the phone of course, but not in as much detail as they would have liked. And seeing each other in person was obviously so much better. Grace was delighted to hear her daughter had come so far since her Kalos adventures and was proud of her progress. Yet, she couldn't help but frown when Serena said she came second in the Hoenn Showcase competition and hadn't entered another one since then. 2nd place was great, but Ash was a champion now. Why couldn't Serena be one too?

'That's great, darling. But why haven't you tried in any other regions? You can't just settle for 2nd! Especially not when you want this so much!' Serena sighed.

'I know! I know! I just got a little side-tracked when Ash asked me to travel with him again. But I've been keeping it up and training with Pancham, Delphox and Sylveon every day! Well… at least I was before I came here. Haven't had the chance yet since arriving.'

'Hmm. See, I understand you and Ash have a very strong bond, so I can see why you've come here. But you can't stop now just because Ash has!' Serena nodded and agreed with every word.

'I know, mum. But I didn't come here just because of Ash, you know. Pokemon Showcases are starting up here very soon and I'm definitely keen on competing in them!' Grace smiled.

'Well, that's good to hear. But what about Ash? How is he going to fit in with it?'

Serena hadn't given it much thought and remained quiet for a while. Delia was busy cooking, but kept a keen ear open.

'Honestly. I've mentioned it to him, but we haven't really properly sat down and discussed it yet…'

'Perhaps now's the time then, dear. You really have to think of yourself sometimes. You're always looking out for others and putting them first. I think you owe it to yourself to put yourself first for once. But I gather that you want to stay with Ash. So just see what he says. If he really wants to stick around, he'll come with you. I'm sure of it.'

'Yeah, you're right mum. I'll talk to him about it later.'

'Good! You better do! Don't forget that you challenged me to a Rhyhorn race to be able to stay on your journey, because you were that determined to do it! And you won! I want to see that determination and grit back in your eyes, yeah?'

'Yeah! I'm going to make you proud!'

'Oh. You already have. Come here.'

They hugged again and then Delia started dishing up breakfast. Some time later, Ash came in and stretched his arms. He seemed to be in his own world, as it took him a while to register an extra person in the house.

'Well, hello young man! I trust you are fully rested now?' said Grace, winking at him.

'Oh, er. Yeah, thanks.' He turned away and then realised just who was talking to him. He turned back immediately. 'Oh! Grace! Hello! Sorry, I was miles away. I don't mean to be rude, but what are you doing here?' Grace laughed.

'Haha! Polite as ever, Ash! Well, I heard from Professor Sycamore that Serena was here. So I thought I'd stop by and see how she's doing. And also to congratulate you on your win and thank you in person for keeping Serena safe the last few years. So, congrats and thank you very much!'

'Oh, thank you, Grace! And if anything, she looked after me!' Grace laughed again.

'Of course. That sounds like my Serena. She always did have a soft spot for you as well, now I think about it…' Grace stroked her chin.

'Mum!' cried Serena, wanting her to stop right there.

'Oh. Sorry, dear. Just thinking out loud!'

Delia chuckled and Grace winked at her. Ash just smiled. Even with how dense he could be, he knew Serena was always good to him. Maybe too good to him. He didn't know what he did to deserve someone so supportive of him. But no one else came close to the way Serena always stuck by Ash.

'Well I'm happy to see my daughter is in safe hands and I'm glad you two are still together.'

'Me too, Grace. And I promise I'll look after her. Even if she does most of the looking after at times.' Serena smiled brightly at Ash.

'I know you will, Ash. There's no one I'd trust more than you to do that and you make my Serena really happy. So you have my blessing.'

'Thank you.'

'Okay! Who's hungry?' asked Delia.

Everyone raised their hands. Ash sat down next to Serena, as Delia happily hummed and began to serve breakfast for everyone. As they were eating, Grace had a burning question on her lips.

'So. What's the plan for the day, you two? Anything exciting?'

Ash and Serena looked at each other, trying to search for an answer. But they had nothing.

'Um. Well, honestly we have no idea!' said Ash.

'Oh, really? That's surprising considering you're the type that's always on the move…'

'Might I suggest something?' said Delia, putting her hand up.

'Sure, mum. Go ahead.'

'Well, Professor Oak did say he needs some help again at the lab…'

'Oh no! There's not another surprise party, is there? Yesterday was nice, but I don't think I've got another one in me!' joked Ash.

'No, silly muffin!' said Delia, playfully ruffling Ash's already messy hair. 'This time he really does need some assistance and I think you two will really like it this time.'

'Okay. As long as it's not studying all the Pokemon again. I love Pokemon, but I'd much rather be doing something with them, rather than just watching them all day,' said Ash.

'Well, why don't you go over after breakfast and see for yourself?'

The mystery of not knowing what it was, was definitely piquing Ash's interest. He thought about it for a second, but before inevitably deciding to go.

After everyone's plates were empty, Ash and Serena set off again to the lab. Grace decided to stay longer and went shopping with Delia. Ash knocked on the door again, much less erratically this time. Professor Oak opened the door.

'Well, hello again you two! I trust you enjoyed the party yesterday? It was quite something, wasn't it?'

'Yeah! Thanks again, Professor!'

'You are very welcome, Ash. Now, I assume you're here to assist me again? I assure you this time I really do need the help!'

'Yes, but please tell me we're doing something a bit more exciting today.' Professor Oak laughed.

'Well, of course, my dear boy! Come in, come in!'

They sat down in the main study. Professor Oak started talking about how brilliant Pokemon are and went on a tangent about how beautifully poetic the world of Pokemon is, before Ash and Serena reminded him that they were there to help him with something.

'Oh, yes! That's right! I'll get to the point now! So, I have a proposition for you, Ash.'

'What? Me?' said Ash, pointing to himself.

'Yes, you! But of course you're more than welcome to join in too, Serena.'

'Okay, what is it?'

'Well. I have recently just given Tracey a promotion to Chief Researcher and he's currently researching Pokemon habits in the main lab as I speak. So that means he will be conducting more studies with me in the future. Which also means he will have less time to welcome new trainers and help them pick their new Pokemon. He will also be unable to carry out his Pokemon Day-care Centre duties, where more young trainers come to play with Pokemon. So, naturally, this leaves the position open… And I know you are struggling to find what to do next, Ash. So this could be a good start, perhaps? You have plenty of experience of looking after Pokemon too, which would be a great help around here. And you would be paid well, of course.'

'Oh, okay. Wow! That's quite an offer! I don't know what to say, Professor…'

'Well, you will have plenty of time to make your mind up! But I thought you could have a sort of trial day today, if you want? A new trainer is actually coming by in about…' He looked at his watch. '10 minutes!'

'10 minutes?! I don't know, Professor. I'm not sure it's for me.'

'Oh, come on, Ash!' interjected Serena. 'This could be really good for you! I remember just yesterday you were telling us the story of how you met Pikachu and your first day as a trainer. Don't you want to be able to see it from the other side? You could really make a difference and pass on your knowledge to a new trainer.' Ash nodded and agreed with everything she was saying.

'Okay. Let me think about it for a second.'

He was looking for a new purpose in life and this very well could be it. And it made sense long term too. Not only that, it would give Ash the chance to see his Pokemon regularly and would give him a good stepping stone forwards, to whatever it is he truly wanted to do with the rest of his life. Plus, he did need the money. The prize money from winning the league wouldn't last forever. And he couldn't live off Delia his whole life.

'Okay! I'll do it! But just for today. I can't agree to anything long term just yet.' He looked over at Serena. 'Are you with me, Rena?'

'Of course I am! I'm actually looking forward to it!' Professor Oak smiled.

'Excellent. That's good enough for me! The offer will always be open for both of you though, if you decide you want to work here full time. But for now, let me show you the Pokemon.'

Professor Oak walked them over to a room with three Pokeballs, each containing a starter Pokemon. Charmander, Bulbasaur and Squirtle. He let them all out and quickly refreshed them on all their attributes, but Ash already knew everything there was to know about them, having his own ones himself. There really wasn't much to it. All Ash and Serena would have to do is help the trainer make up their mind on which one to pick and answer any questions they had. Ash and Serena felt confident they could do it and just in time too, as they heard a knock at the door. Professor Oak went to answer it. A fresh-faced freckled 10-year-old boy walked in, looking a little anxious. Professor Oak asked his name and then shut the door behind him.

'Now, there's no need to be nervous, Tommy. Ash and Serena here will help you pick your Pokemon,' said Professor Oak, guiding him inside. Serena bent down to his height.

'Hi, Tommy. How are you today?'

'N-nervous,' he mumbled. Ash walked over and bent down too.

'Don't worry, Tommy. Nerves are a good thing. It means you care, just like I did when I was standing right here 8 years ago. And hey! You're doing better than me already! At least you're on time!'

Professor Oak and Serena sniggered. Tommy looked at him up and down as he appeared to be trying to remember something and then it clicked in his little mind.

'Hey! You're Ash Ketchum, aren't you!' Ash was a little taken aback that he recognised him, but smiled warmly at him. Ash would have to get used to being a bit of a celebrity now.

'Yeah, that's me!'

'I knew I recognised you! I watched you win the league on TV last week! You were awesome!'

'Well thank you, Tommy. That could be you one day. But first you have to pick your partner.' Tommy nodded and was starting to feel more relaxed.

'Have you thought about which one you want yet?' asked Serena.

'Yes! I thought about it all night and all morning! But I really couldn't decide. Which one did you pick, Ash?'

Ash scratched the back of his head and stood back up to his height.

'Neither.' Tommy looked confused.

'Huh? Which Pokemon did you pick then? There's only three!'

'Pikachu! But that was a one-off!'

'Oh yeah! I saw him on TV too! He was sooo strong!'

Tommy was getting really excited now and looked at Ash in awe. Serena stood up too and couldn't help but admire how good Ash was at this and how much he was inspiring Tommy.

'Yeah he is. And you can train any one of these three to be just as strong. Would you like to see them all now?'

'Oh, yes please!'

'Okay, come on out you three!'

Ash and Serena let them out of their Pokeballs. Tommy gasped and squealed in delight. He couldn't believe he was finally going to get a Pokemon of his own. He'd always dreamed of this day and anticipated it impatiently, just as Ash had some time ago. Charmander, Bulbasaur and Squirtle looked just as nervous as Tommy had been earlier. They were all desperate to be picked and tried to audition themselves well in front of Tommy.

'Now. I know it can be a little overwhelming seeing them all, Tommy. But you can take as much time as you like. Would you like us to tell you a bit about them while you decide?'

'Yes, please.'

Tommy walked around them and closely examined them, as Ash and Serena explained what types they were and what kind of abilities they had. But Tommy still wasn't sure. That was until Charmander tapped him on his shoulder to get his attention and blew fire to show off in front of him. Tommy stared at the spin of fire in amazement and then looked deep into its eyes. They felt something between each other at that moment.

'Awesome,' was all he could say.

Squirtle and Bulbasaur tried to take his attention away from Charmander, but it was too late. Tommy looked up at Ash and pointed.

'I want Charmander!' He looked back down at it and smiled. 'I choose you!'

Charmander jumped up and down and hugged Tommy. A beautiful friendship had begun. Bulbasaur and Suqirtle looked really disappointed, but accepted it gracefully and hoped they would get picked next time.

'Don't worry guys. You'll get picked one day,' said Serena. Ash and Serena returned them to their Pokeballs. Serena turned to Tommy and clapped. 'Excellent choice, Tommy!'

'Yeah! I never picked Charmander but I probably would have if I never met Pikachu. But I did have one myself, who's now evolved into a Charizard. And now he's one of my strongest Pokemon!'

'Yes. It's true, Tommy. If you want you can come and meet him and some of Ash's other Pokemon before you go?' said Professor Oak.

'Oh, boy! Really?! No kidding?!'

'Sure! Take Charmander's Pokeball first and this Pokedex and then we'll go see them.'

Ash handed him the Pokeball and Professor Oak gave him the Pokedex. Everyone went out back and played with the Pokemon. Professor Oak looked on and was impressed with how good Ash and Serene were with the Pokemon. They would definitely be a good fit in the Pokemon Daycare Center. After some fun and games, Tommy decided it was time to finally begin his journey. He waved back to Ash and Serena as he left.

'Thank you Ash and Serena! Maybe one day I'll come back and challenge you to a battle!' said a much more confident Tommy. Ash laughed.

'Sure! I'll be looking forward to it!'

Tommy gave them a cheeky grin and then disappeared over the hill with Charmander by his side. Ash couldn't help but reminisce about his first day as a trainer and remembered how treacherous it was.

'Well! I have to say, you two are naturals! The job is yours if you want to take it!' said Professor Oak.

'Thanks, Professor. We'll think about it…' said Ash, speaking for both of them. 'Unless you want to do it Rena?' he quickly asked, not wanting to make her decision for her.

'Um. Yeah, I really enjoyed it. But I feel the same way as you, Ash. I'll need to think about it too.'

Professor Oak completely understood and respected their decision.

'Well, like I said before, the offer is always there. Thank you for all your help again. You were most helpful indeed.'

'You're welcome, Professor,' they both said.

Ash and Serena returned home and decided to just lazily watch TV for the rest of the day. They hadn't really had a chance to relax since they arrived in Kanto. Serena was hoping she could have a little alone time with Ash and happily spent the afternoon with him. She could have spent the rest of the night like that, but Delia phoned and said she and Grace would be back at 6. Delia was taking her to the best local shops and places to see. Serena thought it was nice that their mums were getting along so well. Definitely a good thing if her and Ash ever became an item one day… But she was getting ahead of herself again. As the sun set, Serena found herself staring at Ash, who was really getting into a Pokemon battle TV show and didn't notice her prying eyes lusting after him. Her eyes had acquired their target and she wasn't looking away unless she had to. But then she suddenly heard keys turning in the door. Was it really 6 o'clock already? Where did the time go? Serena tried to look away before Ash looked over, but Ash caught her gaze just in time. Ash raised an eyebrow, wondering how long she'd been staring at him for. But he just shrugged it off. He was too hungry to think and was looking forward to whatever his mum had planned for dinner.

'We're back!' chimed Delia as they walked in. 'Did you two have a good day at the lab?'

Ash and Serena explained the day they had had and even told them about the job offer. Delia was ecstatic with glee and thought they should take the job. Grace wasn't too pleased about it however, and still wanted her daughter to pursue her true dreams. Delia and Grace also told them about their day and then Delia began preparing dinner. When it was done, they all sat down in the living room and ate together. It felt like a family to Serena. Pikachu even had a little playset in the corner of the room and a little bottle of ketchup. It was all rather perfect and blissful, until Grace announced she was leaving to catch a flight back to Kalos. Serena looked sad, hoping she'd at least stay the night, but Grace insisted she had to get back to her Rhyhorn. Ash and Delia hugged her and said goodbye. Serena decided to walk out with her and see her off properly.

'Well, I guess this is goodbye again,' said Serena, tearing up a little.

'Yes, baby. But don't forget you can phone me anytime, yeah?' Grace bopped her nose and made Serena giggle.

'I know, mum. I'll call you tomorrow.'

'I look forward to it, but just make sure you talk to Ash tonight. I don't want you taking that job, Professor Oak offered you. It sounds nice, but maybe you can do that AFTER you become Kanto Queen, yeah?' Serena smiled and nodded, not wanting to let her mum down.

'Yes, mum. You'll see me on TV soon.'

'I should hope so!' A tear trickled down Serena's face out of nowhere.

'Aww, no! Wipe those tears away! You have to be strong now, baby. Remember. Put yourself first! I'm sure Ash will understand and support you.'

'It's not that. I'm just gonna miss you again.'

'Me too, dear. But you're a big girl now and this is where you're meant to be now. Make the most of it!'

'You're right. Thanks, mum!'

They had one last hug and then Grace waved goodbye and made her way to the nearest train station.

'Good luck, Serena!'

'Thank you, mum! Have a safe flight! And say hello to Clemont and Bonnie if you see them!'

Grace gave her a thumbs up and set off. Serena watched her mother go the whole way, until she disappeared over the hill. Then she took a deep breath. She knew what needed to be done now. She knew what was next. Serena psyched herself up and then stepped back in the house. She paused and stood on the doormat. Delia was washing up in the kitchen and Ash was on the sofa with his feet up. He turned his head over to her.

'You okay, Rena? Did you mum get off okay?'

'Yeah, she's fine. I just wanted to talk to you about something.' She closed the door and walked further in.

'Oh, okay. Sure! Spill!' Ash patted the sofa for her to come and sit down.

'I-In private, please?'

'Oh! Right! Okay… Um…' Ash looked back at his mum, not wanting to disturb her.

'In that case, why don't you come to my room and we can talk there?'

'Y-your room?'

Serena's overactive mind was stirring up again. She had never been in Ash's room before. Or any boy's room for that matter…

'Yeah. Is that okay?'

'Yes, of course!' blurted out a pink-faced Serena.

'Okay, come on then.'

Serena nodded and followed him to his room. Ash flicked his light on and jumped down on his bed. Serena closed the door and froze. Ash gave her a concerned look and gestured for her to come over and sit down. But Serena was having a mini panic attack. Being invited to your crush's room could be a very surreal thing and Serena's mind was in overdrive mode.

'Are you sure you're okay, Rena? You look a little nervous.' Serena stepped back into the real world.

'Yes, yes. I'm fine.'

'Well, come and sit down then, please.'

'O-okay. S-sorry. I just never expected to be in your room,' she said all in one breath.

Serena quickly sat down. Ash handed her one of his pillows to rest her back on and put one behind himself. They sat back and rested themselves against the wall.

'Thank you.'

There was an awkward silence for a while as Serena looked around his room. It was just as messy as Ash's hair, with loads of clothes and Pokemon magazines scattered across the floor. The walls were plastered with Pokemon Indigo League posters and the shelves were full of Pokemon merchandise. Serena's eyes kept trailing around, until she spotted the most out-of-place looking thing in the room, sitting high up on a wardrobe. Ash's trophy. Ash noticed her looking at it and scoffed.

'You know it's funny. I've barely looked at it since I won it. And I didn't even show it off to anyone at the party. I guess it still hasn't sunk in yet…'

'Well it happened, Ash. And you should really start believing it. Not everyone gets to win it all, you know.'

'I know, but I certainly had a lot of failures along the way.'

'But you've done it now. I wish I could have done it…' Serena mumbled.

She turned her whole body away from Ash and raised her knees up and lowered her face into her arms. Ash tilted his head round, trying to see if she was okay.

'Sorry? What do you wish you could have done?' Serena just shook her head.

'Hey. Come on, Rena. Don't shut me out. Is this what you wanted to talk about?' Serena just nodded.

'Okay. So tell me, please. What's on your mind?'

Ash grabbed her shoulder and she slowly looked over at his hand and then quickly resumed her stubborn position.

'Look at me, Rena. I promise whatever it is, I'll listen and try and help as best as I can.' But Serena didn't budge. 'Serena, Please...'

It had been a long time since Ash called Serena by her full name. He sounded really worried now. Serena lifted her head up and peered behind her, seeing him looking sad. She couldn't stand to see him like that, so reluctantly rotated herself back over to Ash. She didn't want him worrying anymore and she had to say this sometime. And it had to be now. Serena sighed.

'Okay. But you have to really understand what I'm about to say. Alright?'

'Okay. I'm ready for it.' Serena half-smiled at him. She opened her mouth and breathed in and out.

'I wish... I wish I had won and become Hoenn Queen. Like you won the league. I've never really brought it up since the first day we reunited, but it's been playing at the back of my mind ever since. Yes, I came second. And I was told countless times that I should be happy with that. But it's not good enough for me!'

Ash didn't say a word, but everything was becoming very clear to him. He completely understood how she felt, being there himself several times before. He wanted to say something, but kept quiet as he was sure Serena wasn't finished yet.

'I know you'll want to say something now, but I need to get this all out. Otherwise it will eat me up. So, please keep listening.' Ash nodded. 'Thank you. Now, please don't take this the wrong way… But I put my own dreams on hold for the last two years, to support you and get the chance to travel with you again. Don't get me wrong, I loved every minute of it and wouldn't have missed it for the world. And I definitely have no regrets coming back here with you... But I sacrificed a lot. All for you, Ash.'

Ash looked down at his feet and was starting to feel a little guilty. He never knew that Serena was hiding all this and bottling it up all this time.

'I've given you a lot, Ash. And I will always give you all I can. But just for a change… I need to think of myself for once, you know?' Serena looked at Ash, as if to say "you can speak now." Ash took that and the lengthy silence as a hint to speak.

'So, what do you want, Rena?'

'I want to go on another journey! To become Kanto Queen! But this time, it's me inviting you...' Ash raised an inquisitive eyebrow.

'Oh, well I wasn't expecting that!' Serena looked crestfallen and reacted immediately.

'See, this was why I was so afraid to say it! You seem happy here now and you've just been offered a job that I know you'd absolutely thrive in! It's selfish of me to ask you to come with me…'

Serena called herself stupid several times under her breath. She was panicking that this could spell the end for them and they would soon split up again. Yet Ash was just looking perplexed and was visibly confused.

'What do you mean? It's not selfish at all! And I haven't made any decisions yet! In all honesty, I've been itching for another adventure anyway! You know me, Rena. Can't stay in one place too long! Your mum was dead right!' Serena's face lit up instantly and she giggled.

'Haha yeah, you really can't.' Ash laughed with her and put an arm around her.

'So, if this is really what you want to do… I'm in.'

Ash grinned boyishly at her and tipped his hat at her. Serena wanted to check she'd heard that right, before saying or doing anything premature.

'Hang on. Sorry? You're what?'

'You heard me! I'm in! It will be nice to see Kanto again. And I can meet loads of strong trainers along the way and keep up my battling skills. Besides! I can't say no when I've been where you are before. I mean of course, we have very different dreams, but it's essentially the same feeling.'

'Oh, Ash! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!' cried Serena.

She pulled him into an empathic hug and Ash happily returned it. Then he whispered something in her ear, which turned Serena into mush and kinda turned her on a little.

'There's no way I'm letting go of you again. Ever.'

Then they broke the hug, but were still touching as Ash grabbed Serena's hands and there was another saga of prolonged eye contact. Serena wondered if this was finally the moment and almost hyperventilated, but took fast rattled breaths instead, until it eventually steadied and it felt she was holding her breath. Waiting and hoping. Then Ash suddenly let go and grinned goofily.

'Hey! I just thought of something! I have something to show you!'

He got up and headed over to his wardrobe. Serena's breathing returned to normal as she let out a massive bout of air from her cheeks. Hard luck. Not this time either. Ash hadn't even noticed and was too busy rummaging around. Then a minute later, he spun round and revealed a dusty old hat. He brushed the dust off and handed it to Serena. She had no idea why he was showing her it though and why it was so important that it had to interrupt her fantasy.

'You see this hat? It's the very first hat I had when I started my Pokemon Journey. It's the official Pokemon Indigo League Expo hat! And it's very rare!'

Serena stared down at it in interest now. She figured it must have been important to Ash, even if she didn't fully understand it yet.

'So rare in fact, that I must have sent in about a million postcards to get it.'

'Wow, really?!' She handled it carefully, even though it was already quite worn out.

'Yeah, it means a lot to me.' Ash rubbed his nose with his finger. 'But more importantly, it's a symbol of how determined I was to become a Pokemon Master. 8 years ago I was sitting in this very room, on this very bed, watching a Pokemon League battle with this very hat on. The night before I became a trainer actually. And I made a vow to be the very best there ever was that night. Having grown up now, I don't think anyone can truly be the best. But I did my very best. And that's exactly what you're going to do now, Rena. And this time, I'm going to be the one by your side every step of the way.'

Serena clutched the hat tight in her hands and looked at it again. Then she started crying a little, as a tear fell on top of the hat. It was definitely more than just a hat. Serena got it now.

'I-I don't know what to say, Ash. I'm just so glad to have you in my life.'

'Me too, Rena. But please, don't cry. This is a happy moment and tomorrow is the beginning of bigger and better things!'

'T-tomorrow?'

'Yeah! Why not! Let's go as early as possible!'

Serena wiped her tears away and put the hat down. She leapt up and put her hands into fists determinedly.

'Alright! Yeah! Tomorrow is the day!'

'That's the spirit, Rena!'

Ash truly never stopped inspiring Serena to do great things. His positive mental attitude was always a big reason she was so wildly attracted to him. But for the moment, she had to put her feelings for Ash to the side and focus on herself. This was it. She was going to do this. It was now or never. Serena thanked Ash again and rushed off to her room to get packed and ready. Tomorrow was going to be a very big day. Maybe bigger than they both realised.