Wow, I was having so much fun writing this chapter that I didn't realize how much I'm writing, and it turned out to be one of the longest chapters I've ever written haha. Sorry for the length.


No, nothing good starts in a getaway car.

You were drivin' the getaway car

We were flying, but we'd never get far

Don't pretend it's such a mystery

Think about the place where you first met me


Chapter 2: Getaway Car

With my bittersweet situationship with Steve Yamada officially wrapped up, walking into the Indigo League office this Friday felt like strolling into a chill hangout spot, my confidence soaring higher than a Pidgeot in flight. I cruised in with a laid-back smirk, wishing everyone in sight a good morning. Shame? Nah, not a chance. I was rather proud remembering my confrontation with Steve. Without sugar-coating anything, I frankly told him that this kind of teenager-like play, even though we're the same age, only suits a loser like him. He was so embarrassed he hasn't appeared in my sight ever since.

But it wasn't the sole reason for my happiness today. Firstly, it's a Saturday and I'm always happy on Saturday mornings. Secondly, the moment I woke up this morning, I received a message from Delia, which said that she's planning Ash's twentieth birthday party for next weekend because Ash doesn't seem to have any specific plans on his own, so, she decided to invite his close friends.

There's just something about hanging out at Delia's that puts a smile on my face. Add a bunch of awesome people into the mix, and it's bound to be a blast. And having Ash there too is just the cherry on top.

As I stood at the sink, toothbrush in hand, I couldn't help but grin at the reflection of my foam-covered mouth. Knowing that May and Dawn would be there too brought even more excitement. It's been ages since I hung out with both of them, and I can't wait to catch up. Plus, I'm crossing my fingers that everyone from Alola can join us too. It's been a while since we've all been together, and I just can't wait to see Lana.

This kind of reunion doesn't happen often, but when it does, it's something to get excited about. Only sometimes on Thanksgiving, when a lot of our friends– at least the ones who can make it that year– gather up at Delia's. So, this is a very rare and thrilling opportunity to finally meet Ash's friends from other regions. And let's be real, getting to see their Pokémon in action? That's like opening a legendary treasure chest in the Pokémon world.

"What's with that expression?" Daisy commented. "You look like a psychopath who, like, just did her hundredth murder."

"Ever heard about knocking?!"

"Ew, like, finish brushing first! Ugh!" She came inside the bathroom to collect her clothes for laundry. "Why are you, like, so happy in the morning anyway." Her voice trailed off as she exited the bathroom.

She can say whatever she wants. She isn't the one meeting her friends next weekend. I am.

After my excellent start of the day, and a burnt toast for breakfast, I fed my Pokémon and did the Saturday morning maintenance ritual. After an hour or so, when I was finally done with my chores, I thought I should go out to buy a gift for Ash, it's something I won't be able to do on the weekdays.

I changed into a pair of jeans and a T-shirt. But as I was tying my hair in a side ponytail, I realized that I have absolutely no idea what to buy for a guy who's turning twenty. Most of the nice things I've given in the past were for the girls (like a luxury brand's makeup, expensive perfume or pretty jewelry), while Ash, Brock and Tracey usually received practical or homemade items. But with this party looming as a big deal, I'm feeling the pressure to step up my gift game for Ash. The usual ideas, like a special type of Pokéball or my trusty lure, are off the table. I've already exhausted ideas like perfume (for Brock because Ash hates them with a burning passion), a new wallet, or Pikachu-printed socks. It's time to get creative and find something that truly suits the occasion.

Daisy walked past me but stopped midway. "Seriously, like, what is wrong with you?"

"Ugh!" I groaned, "what do you want?"

She stood there, hands on hips, signaling the onset of her 'I'm better than you, so listen up' mode. Great, just what I needed.

"Why are you, like, sitting on the couch, doing absolutely nothing and staring at the ceiling like a zombie? You look possessed," Daisy pointed out.

What is her problem? Can't a girl just sit in silence and stare at the ceiling? "Don't you have anything better to do? Go away." I rolled my eyes.

But when has she ever taken me seriously? She sat beside me and crossed her arms. Which means she's either gonna give a boring lecture or throw sarcasm at me with a smile.

"Are you, like, sure you are okay?"

I scoffed. "Why wouldn't I be? Don't worry about me for nothing, I'm fine. I like it better when you're hyper-focusing on your theater career anyway. And your drama teacher career too. Which reminds me, why aren't your students here yet?"

"It's the weekend." She sighed. "Misty…I'm just concerned about you."

"Why are you talking so sweetly…" I whispered. Then the realization hit me. "You went through my stuff? You read my journal!"

"Wow, a journal?" She tilted her head. "Didn't realize you were so into the whole literary scene."

"Thanks Daisy." I hissed and leaned back on the backrest of the couch in a relaxed position.

I can't stand it when she gets all overly motherly, it's like she's overcompensating for the years when I actually needed a mother, but she was unable to fill that role because she was just a teenager herself. But that ship has sailed, and I can't help but wonder if her kindness stems from genuine love for me or if it's just her way of trying to soothe her own conscience.

But at least she didn't invade my personal space this time.

Daisy shrugged. "I just went through your phone."

Spoke too soon.

"You did what?!" I screamed. "Ugh."

"C'mon now! You were very obviously super upset last week. I needed to make sure you weren't involved in, like, some cult or something."

"And what did you find out?" I asked lazily. I'm disappointed, but not surprised. Privacy is a rare thing in this household especially for me when my three nosy big sisters are always prying on my personal business.

Daisy brushed her hair with her fingers. That's the cue you need to remember if you want to know when she is feeling awkward. "Your texts with the Pallet town guy," she murmured.

"You mean Ash? Who also happens to be the Pokémon master and my best friend since I was twelve?"

"Yeah, yeah. Him." She cleared her throat. "He was very obviously trying to cheer you up with some awful jokes. And you were sulking about a situationship. What's a situationship anyway? What kind of slang are you guys using on the internet these days?"

"Ahh. I see. It's about Steve." I took a breath of relief. "Well, a situationship is basically a no-commitment, casual relationship with no responsibilities. The people involved in it like each other, but not enough to date each other. Though I was not aware that I was in one until the Steve guy brought another girl in the picture. I honestly thought we had something real, but what can I expect from a hot intern." I shrugged.

"So, like, not a serious heartbreak?"

I shook my head. "Arceus, no! I was just frustrated." I'll only tell her stuff that will shut her up. No extra details. No heartfelt confessions, no thank you.

"Glad to hear that."

Wait a minute.

Maybe Daisy can be a little useful and suggest some gift ideas. She has dated a lot of guys; I mean a lot before settling for Tracey with whom she's been in a relationship with for almost four years now. "Daisy, if you had to give Tracey a nice birthday gift, what would it be?"

"Huh?" Daisy blinked. "And who are you going to give this present to?"

"Ash."

Daisy smirked. "But he's, like, your friend. Tracey is my boyfriend."

"But they're both guys. I honestly don't know why that even matters."

"Context matters." She giggled, "because if I had to give Trace something nice, it would probably include a hot tub."

"Ew. My life was so much better before I heard that." I scoffed. "If you don't have an idea, just leave it," I said standing up. Why did I even ask her? She doesn't even care about my stuff unless it gives her some gossip.

I was almost out of the room when I heard her yell, "Come back! I'll help you find something for your boyfrie-"

"Get lost, Daisy!" I slammed the door. Idiot.

Just because she isn't close enough with anyone to call them a best friend, doesn't mean other people can't have one. Who else can I ask? Violet and Lily are not even awake after their wild Friday night. Besides, they won't be any different from Daisy. No one takes me seriously in this house. They're all just selfish sisters who don't care about me at all.

I decided to brainstorm some ideas before going shopping. Or maybe look for something online. I opened my laptop as I made myself comfy in my bed.

"Hmm… let's see..."

And from then on, I spent two hours on the internet, out of which, I seriously looked for a gift for fifteen minutes before I got sidetracked by this really interesting video of Tentacruel. And then I found out my favorite celebrity got married so I stalked him for a while on social media, then I got side-tracked again and it kept happening. In conclusion, I couldn't find anything.

This is so annoying.

Wait.

I sat up. Why didn't I just ask Brock? We can even give him something together to increase the budget!

I dialed his number on my laptop. Thankfully, he picked up the video call.

"What up!" He chirped on screen. He was wearing his pink apron and it looked like he was cooking something.

"Hey, you're going to Pallet next weekend, right?" I asked.

"Well, of course!" He wiped his hands on his apron, turned off the stove, and picked up his phone from the kitchen countertop.

"What are you gonna give him?"

"I'm thinking about a pokeball polishing kit."

"Good idea," I said, "He did mention that he needed a new one. Why didn't I think of that before?"

"Did you hear?" He asked, sounding concerned.

"What?" I got closer to the laptop screen.

"Delia invited everyone."

"So?"

"Even from Kalos." He emphasized on the word 'Kalos' with wide eyes. He is such a drama queen sometimes.

Wait, Kalos?

My eyes widened. "Serena too?"

Brock nodded. "May told me, apparently they are close friends."

I gasped. "Ash is so screwed."

"But!"

"Keep talking." I shifted in my bed.

"Will she come?"

"Right? Fat chance." I clicked my tongue.

"I think she won't."

"I think she will." I argued.

"Nah." Brock shook his head.

"How much will you bet on that?"

"Twenty bucks."

"So, you're not confident enough?" I smirked.

"May reckons she's dating someone."

"Wow." I leaned back, soaking the information.

Brock nodded, letting me process it.

"But it was bound to happen." I added. "It's been more than a year since she broke up with Ash. You really think no one has asked her out?" I asked.

"Exactly."

In the end, after some more sidetracking that I'm not very proud of, Brock and I decided to buy something expensive together. Either a new phone so Ash can finally let go of his eight-year-old key-pad phone which barely works anymore, or a new three-piece suit that he won't buy for himself because the one he wears all the time–which he states 'is still in good shape'-has seen better days.

But we agreed on the phone.

ϞϞ (๑ ․̫ ๑)∩

On Thursday evening, after I was done with my gym duties, I got a call from Ash.

"Hey!" He greeted me.

"Hi!"

"Are you not coming to Pallet this weekend?" He asked.

He sounded serious, but what kind of question even is that? Although the fact that all his friends are coming for the surprise party Delia is throwing him, is supposed to remain a secret, at least he can know that I'm still coming like I do every year. Nothing wrong with that.

"Of course I am!"

He sighed, sounding relieved. "And I thought I'd be bored on my birthday."

"Bored?"

"Yeah, just talked to Brock, he said he won't be able to make it."

Brock took the surprise way too seriously. Was I supposed to say that too? Ok, let's just keep up the act now. "Oh yeah, I heard that. But we'll do something fun without him, don't worry."

He hummed in agreement, then took a very long pause. I almost thought he ended the call. "I'm looking forward to it, Mist." And I could tell he was smiling.

In a way, it's good I let him think that at least I was coming. I don't want him to be sad about his birthday, even if it's for a surprise. I want him to feel happy. After all, he never lets me have a single dull moment either. Whether it's my toxic situationship or my midnight panic about bugs, he's always one phone call away.

I'm a little worried about him too. I don't know why Delia invited his ex. I'm sure they ended on good terms, and she is by far one of the sweetest girls I've met, but it's still his birthday! I'm feeling very protective of him thinking that there's a possible chance he might get sad about his breakup with her.

I'll make sure his day is a happy one.

"Seriously Misty, you have, like, a very weird expression on your face." I snapped out of my thoughts thanks to Daisy's piercing voice.

"Arghh, Daisy, do you seriously not have a life?!"

ϞϞ (๑ ․̫ ๑)∩

As Saturday arrived, my excitement to meet everyone grew bigger, and I am almost certain it had a sprinkle of anxiety for reasons unknown to me. But I brushed it off.

I packed my bag at the last possible moment, very early in the morning before doing my Saturday morning gym duties. I made sure everything and everyone was okay and my Pokémon were well fed. I'm letting some of my Pokémon stay with my sisters in case of an emergency, but I'm definitely taking Psyduck and Marill with me, as those two have some serious separation anxiety. Gyarados, Starmei, and Politoed can be trusted to protect and look after other Pokémon if there's a disaster, so I had to very reluctantly leave them.

After checking everything and handing Daisy a list of tasks that had to be done before Monday, it was eight in the morning, so I finally left for the train station.

I slept the whole three-hour train journey and woke up only because Psyduck popped out of his pokeball or I would've missed my stop.

Finally, sweet, old Pallet town! I love everything about this town, the green mountains that surround it, the grassy plains, the forest, the cute houses, the small-town-esqueness, the Pokémon, the people, the weather, and the peace that comes with it.

I stretched my torso to the fullest and took a deep breath, still standing on the station platform. Fresh air. But I had to cough the very next second. Fair enough. It gets cleaner near Ash's house anyway.

The train gave a loud signal and departed for the next station. I seriously love traveling on that train. The station is even less crowded than usual. I looked around to find any trace of Ash and before I could fully scan the area, I heard a loud-

"Pikachupi!"

Ash was walking towards me with a smile on his face and Pikachu on his head. This time, he was disguised in a loose, black hoodie, a black cap, a mask and sunglasses.

"Looking for someone?" He asked.

"Hey, Mr. Incognito." I chuckled and hugged him, Pikachu's tiny paws making their way from his head to mine. "How's your last day as a teenager going?"

He squeezed me a little before letting go. "Pathetic." He laughed and took my bag from my shoulder. "My mom has gone crazy, making me run all across the town, shopping for groceries and stuff." He scoffed.

"Chu!"

"Aww, you too Pikachu?"

As we walked outside the station and sat in Delia's old car, Ash explained how Delia was making sure he was not in the house even for a minute which was frustrating him very much, but gladly he didn't understand her motive.

"So, any big plans after entering your twenties?" I asked as we hit the road, scratching Pikachu's head, with Pikachu being Cuddled up on my lap.

"The League manager is nagging me again." He pouted, taking off his mask and sunglasses. "When I won the title, he wanted me to have a manager, and I refused."

"So why now?" I asked.

"I'm turning twenty," he murmured.

"So?"

"Well, apparently, after I'm of legal age, the Paparazzi have way more freedom to write all kinds of crap about me. The adult kind of crap."

I shook my head. "Ew. They were waiting for you to become legal so they could sexualise you? That's disgusting."

"It doesn't stop there," he said, shifting gear and speeding up on the empty road. "The league manager thinks I should have a manager now because a lot of newly-adult public figures lose their shit at this age, featuring in scandalous news like dirty hookups, dating rumors, drugs, alcohol and stuff."

"Yikes, Ash." I clicked my tongue. "So, you're gonna have a manager?"

"Not yet. I stalled them for a while. But the League insisted I avoid traveling at least for a few months. Your guy is gonna be in Pallet for a while." Ash pursed his lips and tapped on the steering wheel. "Ahem…there's another thing. I was thinking of moving out."

I looked at him. "Really?"

He took a quick glance at me before turning his attention back to the road, "Yeah. It never made sense two years ago when I was traveling outside of Kanto. But now that I work with the Indigo league and it's an obligation to be here at least twice a month, I feel I should get my own apartment."

"That's a good decision. I wish I could move out, or at least kick my sisters out," I sighed.

"Trust me, I've thought a lot about this. But don't tell anyone right now, because the only person I have talked about this with is Professor Kukui."

I nodded. One might wonder how come he had only told Professor Kukui about it. He has never said it out loud, but Professor Kukui unknowingly filled a void in Ash's life. A void that has been there ever since he lost his father.

"Did you talk to…" I looked at him.

He shrugged. "I don't know how to bring it up. It's not like Mom has said anything about it in the past two years, but I think we both know it's about time."

I thought for a moment before saying. "You have no idea what her opinion is about this?"

"Nope. But I'm sure about it. Plus I won't live too far away. I've actually talked to a few realtors for apartments near my house."

We took a sharp turn, away from the main road towards the path leading to the driveway of Ash's house.

"I think her being in a relationship for a couple years now will help. I bet she won't mind the privacy." I chuckled. "You know for…"

Ash laughed. "I wish I never heard that."

"To spend time together with her boyfriend, you dirtbag!"

Ash parked the car and led the way, carrying my bag for me. "Welcome to paradise!" he announced as he opened the door. I used to call his house a paradise because it was a very cozy getaway from my sisters when I was younger. It's a nice callback.

Delia came rushing out of the kitchen, Mr. Mime following her, and before I could greet her properly, she suffocated me with the most motherly hug I've ever received from her. And I accepted it dearly.

"Welcome Misty!" She said sweetly. "So glad you're here so early."

I opened my mouth to breathe. "Thanks…Delia."

She finally let go of me.

"You're visiting after such a long time!" she complained stepping aside to make space for me to enter the house.

"I was here just last month!" I chuckled, "I'm sorry it was a very busy time at the gym!" I said entering the house.

"If it was up to Mom, she would just keep you here." Ash laughed, his voice trailing off as he climbed the stairs to his room. I was going to follow him upstairs but Delia grabbed my hand and stopped me.

I turned towards her.

"You have to keep him away from the house," she whispered.

I raised my brow. "Why?" I asked in a hushed tone.

She stepped closer. "Brock and May are gonna arrive around noon to surprise him at midnight."

"But isn't the party at Oak's?"

"That's tomorrow, and the midnight surprise thing is today. I can't let you guys sleep in Gary's house anyway."

I nodded. "How long do I need to keep him away again?"

Delia grinned awkwardly, her smile reminding me of Ash's. "Till…midnight."

"Midnight?!" I asked loudly. I cleared my throat. "Midnight?" I whispered.

She nodded.

"Why the whole day, though?"

"I'm gonna be baking some cake. Then some prep for tomorrow. There's actually a lot to do, you can help me and Gary can distract-"

"I'll do it!"

She smiled. "Good decision!"

I sighed. "Only for you."

With my newly assigned task in mind, I went upstairs to convince Ash to leave the house. I peeked in the room only to find him getting the air mattress ready.

"Isn't it too early to sleep?" I teased as I entered the room.

He jumped. "What?" Then he looked down at the air mattress. "Oh, this?" He grinned sheepishly.

I walked up to him and sat on his messy bed. "Getting your bed ready?" I asked, gently poking the air mattress.

Ash laughed. "Yes, ma'am. I'll be too lazy to do it at night."

His room has changed a lot in all these years. A few years ago, when I visited him after a long time, he had moved the furniture around, changed the whole layout, and was painting the walls. Turns out he was manically doing these things right before the Championship, perhaps in anxiety. Now, he has added a few new posters, changed the curtains, and added a new shelf for his trophies. His room has always been a reflection of his personality. He subconsciously changes his room according to his current phase. I noticed there were a lot more pictures of us on Indigo Island.

It's funny to think, actually. After I left him to follow my own path, we were always in touch but it was never the same. But after we started working for the Indigo league office together, him being the Pokemon Master, and me being a reluctant member of the league committee, it's brought us a lot closer than ever before. Our friendship has been reborn in a way.

"Listen."

I snapped out of my thoughts. "Huh?"

He was done with the air mattress and sat on it to check its sturdiness. "I got a call from one of the realtors this morning. She said she can show me a house today. Will you come with me?"

It's like I don't even have to try to take him out of the house. The universe is doing my job. "Yes!"

Without wasting any time, we took the car keys and marched towards the door. Ash was back to his incognito mode, with glasses, cap and mask.

"Let's go buddy!" Ash called for Pikachu who ran towards us and hopped on Ash's shoulder.

Right before we could cross the door, Delia called from across the living room "Wait!" She stomped towards us in a hurry and handed Ash a list. "I need all of this. And some fertilizer from the Xanadu nursery."

Ash groaned, but took the list from her. "Okay…"

"Have a nice, long drive honey!" she exclaimed from the doorway before we sat in the car and hit the road.

The house is not very far away from Delia's- roughly a ten minute drive. It's situated in a peaceful neighborhood in the outskirts of Pallet town, and just like Delia's house this one is also far away from the heart of the town.

We entered the front yard of the house, I looked around and there were a few more houses nearby, close enough to ask for help in case of an emergency but far enough to maintain privacy. As we entered, a lady, who seemed to be around Delia's age, was waiting for us on the patio.

Ash cleared his throat. "Hello, Ms. Diaz! We are here to see the house." He took out his hand and she firmly shook it.

"Well, hello there…" She looked down at her notebook, her eyes snippily scanning the page, then shifted back to us, "Ash Ketchum?"

"That's me!" Ash chirped. "And this is Misty and Pikachu!"

"Hello!"

"Pika!"

"Nice to meet you," she beamed at me, then added, "you too Mr. Pokemon Master's little friend!" She smiled at Pikachu, "Please follow me to the living room, right here!"

I listened quietly for most of the time as the realtor explained how this house matched all of Ash's requirements. I observed everything keenly, trying to make sure it was actually good. And it was, indeed, pretty nice. The living room was fairly big and had huge windows on the side of it making them a great source of ventilation and sunlight, the kitchen felt small because it was covered with a lot of wall cabinets and stuff like washing machine, drier and a dishwasher but that meant good storage options and a furnished house. The bedroom was almost the size of Ash's current bedroom. There was something cozy about the house. I can imagine Ash living here, trying to cook in the kitchen, having a coffee on the patio, training with Pikachu on the yard. I could even imagine myself having the couch for nights when I stay over.

It's not fair the property prices are so low in Pallet. After touring the house, we found ourselves back on the patio.

"What do you think of the house?" Ms. Diaz asked, smiling at both of us.

"It's pretty nice, huh?" Ash said, looking at me for approval.

"It is!" I smiled.

"What do you think buddy?" He asked Pikachu this time.

"Pi pika!" Pikachu agreed.

"This house's requirements are actually quite in demand right now, it's very suitable for a couple like you!" Miss Diaz added.

I felt a sharp tickle running down my chest. "I'm just his friend!" I denied, waving my hands dismissively.

A light flashed in my purse and Psyduck popped out of his pokeball. He narrowed his eyes at me, giving me a funny look. He loves to tease me on this matter. I couldn't help but blush at his reaction.

"Psy…" He smiled.

"Not the time, Psyduck!" I hissed, sending him back to his pokeball.

I looked at Ash, who was quietly pinching his nose bridge, looking over his shoulder. Pikachu curiously staring at Ash's weird reaction.

Miss Diaz's lips formed a thin smile. "I apologize for assuming. Please feel free to reach out for any more enquiries or if you decide to rent this place."

Ash cleared his throat. "Certainly, Miss Diaz! This is a perfect house for me. I'll get back to you in a few days," he stuttered.

We walked back to the car.

"So?" Ash asked, buckling his seatbelt.

"Pi pikachu!"

"I'm glad you liked it buddy!"

"It's a very nice place," I agreed, scratching Pikachu behind his ears, a gesture that he always welcomed.

"Very well, then." He smiled back before pressing the gas. "I'm glad both of you liked it."

I smirked, "I'm not the one that's gonna live here, remember?" Then I batted my eyes in hopes of teasing him. "You should bring a girl there though. It's a perfect place for a couple."

He laughed. "Arceus! That happens quite often now. Still catches me off guard."

"Because it's a bunch of bullshit." I laughed too.

"Anyways, what I mean is you visit me quite often, so your approval is kind of important, right?" he asked.

I chewed my lower lip and shook my head in amusement. "You better buy a more comfy couch then."

"Why the hassle? I'll make you sleep in that arm-chair!"

"Will you?"

"I will."

"Oh, really?"

"Even the patio looks comfy."

"How lame will the news sound? Beautiful girl unalives her friend while he is sleeping in his bed!"

"I doubt that beauty part."

"Extremely beautiful girl throws her friend out of his car."

"You will die too."

"Insanely hot girl abandons her friend in the middle of the forest."

Our banter lasted a few more minutes before we remembered about the grocery list that Delia gave us.

So, cue montage.

We're off to the convenience store and it's just one in the afternoon. I have to think of more ways to keep him away, It's harder than I imagined it to be.

I watched out the car's window where buildings slowly replaced the greenery more and more as we entered the town.

"After we're done with the grocery?" I left the question hanging.

"We'll have to go to the nursery," Ash whined, finishing my sentence.

"Right, the nursery." Delia, you genius. "And after that?"

"Do you maybe…" He pushed the brakes for a stop signal. "Wanna grab lunch before we do any of this?" He asked sheepishly.

"Fantastic!"

Ash drove us to his favorite ramen place. I'd been here a few times before and each time my faith in the chef increased. We chose an isolated booth for privacy; the staff were very cooperating because they've known Ash since he was a child.

"It's truly the best I've ever had!" I gushed at the bowl filled with Ramen on the table.

Ash slurped on his Ramen. "It is! Though I'd argue my mom could beat this."

I said mouthful, "I wish I could make it this good."

"Mist, please. It'd be a miracle if you managed to make even the instant ones. Don't you remember how you almost burned down the kitchen once?"

I rolled my eyes. "You never let me forget that."

"I almost died that day."

"Pika pika."

"You were barely burned. It was just boiling water. And Pikachu, you weren't even in the kitchen."

"Psy-ay!"

"Go back, Psyduck. You have no right to take their side after you ran away at the sight of fire that day."

"Science says boiling water can kill you," Ash added.

"So can stupidness, but look at you! Turning twenty tomorrow."

"Pika chu."

"I have traumatic flashbacks. And Pikachu, pick a side, buddy."

"Just. Boiling. Water."

"A brave martyr."

"Dickhead."

"Your burden."

"Screw you."

And after bantering while having lunch, we remembered the awaiting task of groceries, which would've been the cause of our death due to acute boredom if we weren't together to make it less boring. We left the ramen place and headed to the supermarket.

We spent an hour there, mostly because we got sidetracked every two minutes for snacks and stuff. After hunting down everything and collecting it in the shopping cart like some treasure-hunting video game, I finally checked off the last item on Delia's list. Then after another painful fifteen minutes at the checkout, we tiredly walked back to the car. The thing about grocery shopping is that it can be fun and tiresome at the same time, and I'm glad Ash shares the same thought.

"Xanadu Nursery's supposed to be the next, right Mist?"

"Or…"

"An ice cream break?"

"You read my mind."

"Pika!"

Keeping him away from the house isn't as hard as it seemed this morning. Immersed in ice cream, we did not realize it was already four in the afternoon and scurried back to the car in hopes of reaching the nursery before it closed at five.

It's great to escape the town once again and drive towards the nursery which is situated where the town and forest meet. The air is starting to get cool, I rolled down the windows to let it in. Pikachu stood on its hind paws and held the window with its front little paws, its tiny fur flowing with the gust of wind.

I took the hair tie I was wearing on my wrist and tied my hair in a bun to save it from getting all tangled up by the wind.

I turned on the radio, hoping for it to work. Surprisingly, one of the local channels was available. This feels so perfect. Ash, Pikachu, and I on a road trip. That doesn't sound bad at all. But maybe add Brock with us too.

I rested my elbow on the edge of the window, slightly leaning towards it to feel the loud breeze on my face, watching the trees as we left them behind, the trees passing much faster than the mountains.

I increased the volume of the radio when I heard a familiar song.

He said, "Let's get out of this town

Drive out of the city, away from the crowds"

I closed my eyes.

I thought, "Heaven can't help me now"

Nothing lasts forever

But this is gonna take me down.

My human instincts sensed someone looking at me. I slightly turned my head to find Ash staring at me from the corner of his eyes. He quickly looked away when our eyes met.

I sat up and looked through the windshield. I could see a big glass dome from afar.

"Here we are!" Ash announced as he drove to the empty area in front of the nursery's entrance. He parked the car there.

"Let's go, buddy!" I said, picking up Pikachu and stepping out of the car. "It's so peaceful here." I looked around. The last time I came here, we were still little ten and eleven years old. It's good the nursery got an architectural upgrade for good, but the natural elements around it stayed the same. In fact, it's looking greener and prettier than last time.

I waited outside with Pikachu while Ash went inside to buy the fertilizer. I was much more interested in looking around and enjoying the peaceful greenery that covered the plains as far as my eyes could see. It brings me back to the days when I used to travel. Sure, I've made peace with the fact that I have a responsibility towards my gym, and over the years, the gym leader lifestyle has grown on me. But it wouldn't hurt to take occasional trips and vacations that aren't to Indigo Islands, right?

"It's so quiet out here, right bud?" I asked Pikachu, who was climbing up on my shoulders.

"Pi…" It squeaked, busy with making itself comfortable on my shoulder.

I giggled, leaning on the hood of the car. "We should totally go on a trek together every once in a while."

"Pika, pi Pikapi Pikachupi!"

It might surprise some people how well I understand Pikachu even though I'm not its trainer. It's just we've been friends for a long time now. "Of course! You, me, and Ash should go trekking."

"Chu pi pichu ka." Pikachu nodded.

"What do you mean just me and Ash- Oh! Right! Because the realtor mistook us for a couple. Ha ha. Very funny."

Pikachu giggled.

"You know, you gotta work on your jokes, Pika pal."

"Pika chu pika pika."

"Oh come on now. At least my jokes are clever. Yours are just lame."

"Chu ka. Pika pika pi."

"Oh, you wanna use thunder shock right now?" I chuckled at its playful threat. "I also wanna squeeze you because you're a cute yellow fuzz ball, but we gotta control our urges bud."

"What the hell are you two talking about?" I jumped, hearing a human voice.

"Ash." I took a breath of relief. "You're done already." It was more of a statement than a question.

He shook his head, a faint smile plastered on his face. To keep the fertilizer as far away as possible from the driving seat, Ash put it in the trunk. "You would've noticed if you weren't so busy threatening my best friend about squeezing him." A faint cloud of dust formed as he slammed the trunk close.

"I thought I was your best friend." I huffed. "Besides, it's just playful banter. Healthy for my mental health. Right Pikachu?" I scratched its cheek.

"Chuu…"

"Mental health?" He asked, walking towards the driver's seat and mumbling something that faintly sounded like, "just mental." He opened the car door.

I was about to pass a snarky comment at Ash, but then it dawned on me. I'm supposed to keep him out of the house. It's just five in the evening and we are done with the errands that Delia assigned us. I need to take him somewhere else.

Before he could step inside the car to sit in the driver's seat, I leaped towards him, making sure to slap his hand out of the way and I closed the door as fast as I could. I could have accidentally pinched his hand with the car door if it wasn't for his muscle memory and my reflexes.

"Ow! What the fu- Ouch!" He wailed in pain.

Okay, now he's just faking it. I definitely made sure he was out of the way.

"The door didn't even touch you," I deadpanned.

"It did. It touched my pinky finger. It was almost crushed!" He bit his lip, raising his pinky in front of my face.

I gently pushed his hand away. "It did not, I was careful enough. It's not that bad, Ash." Then I opened the car door for myself.

"It's my pinky finger! I'll get to say whether it's bad or not." He rubbed his alleged hurt pinky with his thumb, pouting at me as I sat inside on the driver's seat. Pikachu, doing the right thing, stayed out of all of this and hopped beside me on the empty seat, waiting for his trainer to drop the act.

"Gimme the keys," I offered my hand.

He groaned, throwing the keys at me, which fell inside the car, somewhere near the brakes. "You could've asked politely if you wanted to drive so badly. Didn't have to injure me." He said.

I bent down, and fiddled my hand around my feet, hoping to touch the keys. "Calling yourself injured is taking it too far, Mr Pokemon master."

He made himself comfortable in the seat next to me, Pikachu stood on the dashboard, waiting for Ash to get adjusted and wear his seatbelt.

I buckled my seatbelt before inserting the keys in their designated place to start the car. But before I twisted the keys, I glanced at Ash with the corner of my eyes. The sight almost made me laugh. He was slouching in the seat, absentmindedly rubbing his pinky with his thumb as he rolled down the window with his other hand.

"Okay, show me where it hurts," I said, accepting my defeat.

He looked at me. "What?"

"Show me your finger, Ash."

He then proceeded to show his favorite finger; which is not allowed to be shown inside Delia's house. I smacked his hand away from my face, causing him to crack up at his stupid joke.

"Very funny, I knew you were faking it."

"I was hurt. Only a little, but that isn't important," he said between giggles. "Where are you driving me anyway?" he asked when his laugh died down.

Starting the car, I took a glance at him. "Make a guess." I was hoping to take him to the first place he guessed.

"The parallel universe where I get to eat out every day without getting sick sounds nice."

"Make another guess."

He thought for real this time, "I don't know, maybe drive to the top of Oak Hill before the sun sets?"

"You guessed right."

Oak Hill is not too far away from the nursery and surprisingly, it has no relation with Professor Oak. My best guess is the hill used to have a lot of oak trees which were maybe cut down for wood, because I couldn't find a single oak tree on that hill.

We reached the hilltop right on time. It was just thirty minutes past five and the sun was hovering over the frame of mountains, looking like the scenery we used to draw as kids, but not quite there yet to set, buying us plenty of time to admire the scenery while it's still bright.

We stepped outside the car and sat on its rusty hood beside each other, facing the sun. Ash got rid of his mask and sunglasses. I let Psyduck and Marill out of their pokeballs. They sat on the soft grass, playing with each other.

I looked around, soaking in the beauty of everything. On one side, I could see fields and farms and a little farther away, the beautiful houses of Pallet covered the grassy lands. While the other side was covered with thick forest, leading the road away from the town towards the mountains that surrounded us.

Flocks of pidgeys covered the sky as they were returning to their homes for the night, chirping as they flew above us. The cool wind rustled through the leaves, bending the tall grass, making me shiver

"The air sure is cool up here, " I pointed out.

"You aren't cold, are you?" Ash asked, sounding concerned.

"In May?"

"But you look like you're a little cold."

"Cerulean is just hotter than here, I guess. Perhaps because of the beach and all of that city's pollution."

"Yeah. It is warmer in Cerulean. In Pallet, the cold freezes my bones during winters compared to Cerulean which is just pleasantly cool."

"But it has a beach so it cancels out all the cons."

Ash chuckled. "You and your beaches."

"What can I say? The saltwater speaks to me."

The sky turned a stunning shade of orange and pink as the sun set. I'm so mesmerized by the beauty of Pallet every time I come here that it makes me wanna live in a lively place like this too. Maybe Cerulean City has some gems away from its heart too, waiting for me to find them. It can be my getaway base. The idea sounds so enticing.

I looked at Ash from the corner of my eyes. He is gently stroking Pikachu, his gaze fixed on the beautiful scene in front of us. He usually drops the hat whenever he's relaxing, freeing his dark, messy hair. Those locks of hair flew as the wind touched them. I never noticed this before, but his eyes glowed golden in the soft light of the setting sun. I looked back at the scenery.

The sunset was over, but we decided to stick around. Before the sky could go completely dark, the evening star appeared, and behind us rose the moon. It's beautiful.

Without realizing it, we stayed on Oak Hill, sitting on that slope of the car's hood for another two hours after the sunset, talking nonsense as Pikachu took a nap between us. Time flies when I'm with Ash. We have so much to talk about all the time, even though we see each other quite often.

The conversation we were having would've gone on forever had it not been for Ash's stomach making a weird noise.

"Hungry, are we?" I smirked.

He grinned sheepishly.

"Wanna grab dinner before we head home?"

"Or maybe we can just head home," he suggested.

Oh no. "No, we can't."

He raised an eyebrow, "why can't we?"

I fought a whole battle in my mind to resist displaying the internal panic on my face. "Because…" I stretched the word to buy more time. Because, because, because? Oh right. "Because it's too late. Neither of us can make anything except instant noodles, and Delia must be asleep."

"Oh right!" He checked his watch. "I didn't realize it was so late."

I won, and we decided to eat out.

It's dark now, so it took me much longer, around an hour, to drive down the hill and re-enter town.

When I parked the car in front of the only good diner in town, we realized we had to wait a while since it was a Saturday. After about twenty minutes, we finally got a table.

We ordered the food and patiently waited for it to be prepared. The chef taking some extra time to prepare the dishes would've made me angry on an empty stomach any other day, but if it helps keep the plan in motion, I can let it pass today.

Thankfully, our meals took time to arrive, and when they did, I ate as slow as I could. That kept us busy till eleven thirty. Midnight is so close.

We went back to the car, I took the wheel again and drove us around the town, pretending to look for a bakery that's still open at this hour.

"Do you need to eat the cheesecake right now?" Ash frowned.

"Of course I do. What's the point of eating out if we don't get to eat dessert?"

"It's almost midnight, Misty."

"I know." I smirked. Okay, maybe I'm not completely following the plan. I'm supposed to take him home minutes before midnight so everyone can surprise him, but I changed the plan a little bit.

Of course, we'll get to see May and Brock soon and I'm sure Gary will be there too. Of course, it's gonna be fun and I'm excited about it.

But

I had so much fun today even doing the most mundane things just because we were together. I guess I'm not very happy that I'm gonna have to share him with everyone else now. It's selfish of me but I can't help it. And I know what I'm going to do won't be the right thing. But I'm doing it.

I parked the car in front of the Ketchum house just one minute before midnight.

"Here we are," I said.

"Let's go," he said, Pikachu sleeping on his lap.

He opened the door.

"Wait," I called, grabbing his arm, before he could get out.

"Hmm?" He turned towards me.

I paused and checked my phone. It's midnight.

"Happy birthday, Ash."

I was still holding his arm. He smiled, looking surprised. He removed his hand from my grip and kept it on the top of mine, squeezing my hand. "Thank you, Misty."

Call me selfish or childish, but I wanted to steal this moment. I wanted to be the first one to wish him and I'm happy.