During the Battling Family Convention in Mauville City, Summer was trapped in a nightmarish void with Craig Alaric. Thankfully, she was saved by a biographer named Vansea and her Sigilyph. They then watched the finals of the Parent-Child Tag Battle Tournament, featuring Camilla and Weldon versus Andrew and Andy. It was a hard-fought battle, but the Lelands prevailed and won the tournament. After a couple days of rest, the young Trainers prepare to return to Petalburg City for the next Gym. Summer receives a lunch invitation from her parents and asks Weldon if he wants to join them. Will he accept the invitation, and how will the lunch go?

Chapter 35- The Parental Meeting

I was finishing my bi-weekly call with my parents in the Mauville Grande Hotel.

{So, where are you going next?} my mom asked.

"Petalburg City."

{So you'll be facing Norman soon.}

"Yeah, I'm kind of nervous though since he's a really tough Gym Leader."

My dad reassured, {You'll be fine, Summer. You and your Pokémon have worked really hard.}

"Thanks, Daddy."

{Oh!} my mom interjected. {Since you'll be heading back towards home, do you want to meet us for lunch in Petalburg while you're there?}

"Sure, can Weldon join us as well?"

{Of course! It's the least we can do to thank him for traveling with you.}

"Okay, I can ask him about it and let you know."

{Great. Well, we won't keep you too long. Don't forget to thank Weldon's mom for letting you stay at the hotel.}

"I won't. I'll talk to you soon."

{Okay, sweet dreams, Summer.}

After hanging up, there was a knock on my door. After giving the person permission to enter, Weldon peeked through.

"Hey, Summer. When do you want to leave tomorrow?"

"Hey, Weldon. I'm fine with leaving at any time."

"Okay. Mom needs to check out by 10, so before then is fine."

"That works for me. Oh yeah, I'm planning to have lunch with my parents while we're in Petalburg City. Do you want to join us?"

My traveling partner's ears turned red. "I-Is it okay? I mean, I don't want to intrude."

"No, it's fine. My parents said it was okay."

Weldon pondered this before responding, "Sure… I can join you guys."

"Great! What day works for you?"

"A-Any day's fine with me…"

Sensing his worry, I got closer to him. "Are you okay, Weldon?"

The color of his cheeks matched his ears. "I-I'm fine, Summer. Anyway, we should get some rest. Good night!"

He briskly walked back to his room and closed the door.

Though a little confused, a small, knowing smile crept over my face. My heart beat quicker, and I knew it was also time to go to sleep.

The next day…

Camilla guided me and Weldon to the Tropius Taxi stop in Mauville City.

She pulled out her wallet from her handbag. "Here, this should be enough money to get you to Petalburg City."

"Thanks, Mom," Weldon said, accepting the gift.

"Thanks for letting me stay at the hotel and attend the Battling Family Convention this year," I added with a bow.

His mom beamed. "Of course, Summer. I'm glad both of you enjoyed it. Be safe during the rest of your journey. And Weldon, you'll be fine, okay?"

"Uh…sure…"

I noticed he glanced away but decided not to press him.

We entered a taxi and flew west, waving goodbye to Camilla. It was a twenty-minute trip, so I took advantage of the free time.

"So, Weldon, I've been meaning to ask… How come you decided to have Venusaur learn Razor Leaf and Earthquake?"

He perked up. "Oh. Since I'm on hiatus, I thought it would be helpful for my Pokémon to learn coverage moves. Venusaur already knew Razor Leaf; the Earthquake is new."

"Wait, then how does he know Razor Leaf now? Solarbeam and Body Slam are pretty useful moves, so it would be a shame to forget them."

Weldon took out a small rectangle device from his bag. "I got this after I won the Indigo League. It lets me record all of my Pokémon's moves and reteach them whenever I want. It also records any moves I teach them outside of their normal move sets, like Venusaur's Earthquake, so I don't have to worry about him forgetting a move that took so long to learn."

"Wow, that's really cool. I know there are people who can reteach a Pokémon's moves in exchange for Heart Scales, but this method is so much more efficient."

He chuckled. "I'm sure they'll find a way to make this more available to everyone. That's what everyone wants after all."

I felt his sadness. "Weldon… Is what your mom said after the tournament worrying you?"

He looked out the window. "Yes…and no…"

I was about to inquire when the cab driver announced our descent. We landed at the Petalburg City stop near the Pokémon Center. After we checked into our rooms, I got a text from my mom.

I chuckled as I read it, piquing Weldon's interest. "Was that your mom?"

"Yeah. They're heading over now."

"Which restaurant are we going to?"

"My dad's favorite, Seaking's Burgers."

Weldon looked at his slightly sweaty clothes. "M-Maybe I should change."

I raised an eyebrow. "Weldon, it's just a casual-"

"I-I'll be right back!"

He ran towards his room. Once he was out of sight, I let out Lightning.

She stretched her body. "Seaking's Burgers, huh? We haven't had that since the Silver League, huh?"

"Yeah…" I said as I stared at the hallway.

"Earth to Summer! Are you feeling alright? It's not like you to be so spacey."

"Huh? Oh, I'm fine, Lightning. It's just… Weldon's meeting my parents for the first time. And he went back to his room."

She giggled. "Come on, Summer. You know he's most likely changing into more formal clothes to do just that."

I petted her. "Now that's making me more nervous. I just want him to be himself."

"S-Sorry about that, Summer. Are we still on time?" Weldon was dressed in a clean white polo shirt, a green sweater vest, and khaki slacks. His hair, sans fedora, was slicked back with gel.

I ignored the Raichu's smirk. "Yeah… But are you sure you want to wear those clothes? It's warm today."

"I've been getting more used to the heat nowadays, so it should be fine. Besides, the restaurant will have air conditioning."

"That's true. Let's go then."

We walked to the restaurant, which was by the port. Along the way, I kept glancing back at Weldon. He kept stretching his collar, but he wasn't sweating as much. I guess it was because we were away from Mt. Chimney.

When we arrived at the restaurant, my dad was waiting outside.

"Summer!" he greeted.

"Dadd- I mean, Dad. Did you wait long?"

He hid a smile as we hugged. "No, we just got here. Your mom's inside." After petting Lightning, he turned to my traveling companion. "You must be Weldon. It's nice to finally meet you in person. I'm William Scorcher, Summer's dad."

Weldon gulped. "I-It's nice to meet you as well, Mr. Scorcher."

"Well, let's not keep your mom waiting."

My dad opened the doors and let us inside. It wasn't as crowded since the restaurant just opened. My mom was sitting at a booth near the order counter.

After I greeted and hugged her, she introduced herself to Weldon. "Hello, Weldon. I'm Anna, Summer's mom. I'm happy you were able to join us."

"Th-Thank you for the invitation, Mrs. Scorcher."

I looked at the seating arrangements. Do I sit next to Mommy or to Weldon? But would the latter option be uncomfortable with my parents?

My mom interrupted my thoughts. "You and Lightning can sit next to me, Summer."

"O-Okay, sure."

As we did so, with Lightning at the end, Weldon allowed my dad to slide down the opposite bench before sitting down.

I tried to busy myself with the menu, but I couldn't help but glance over at Weldon, who was concentrating on his.

My mom broke the tension. "So, what's everyone thinking about ordering?"

I stammered, "M-Most likely the hamburger with grilled onions. And a chocolate milkshake."

"So the usual for you then, Summer. How about you, Weldon?"

Startled, he almost dropped his menu. "Uhh…I'm not sure… D-Do you have any recommendations?"

My mom skimmed through the list of food. "If you like something simple, then the hamburger or cheeseburger. Their chicken strips are also good too."

"Or you can also choose the double cheeseburger if you're really hungry," my dad added.

Giggling, she replied, "Which is why it's your usual here."

"You got me there."

They laughed, making me a little uncomfortable. Weldon appeared to feel the same as well.

"I-I'll get the hamburger then. Why do you get it with grilled onions, Summer?"

"I don't really like the strong taste of raw onions. I prefer them cooked."

"I see… I'm fine with the raw onions. Are we going to share any fries?"

My dad said, "We can each get our own. Do you want anything to drink as well, Weldon?"

"I-I'm fine with root beer."

The waiter then came over, pausing our conversation. After he took our orders, I turned to my mom.

"H-How's Raymond doing?"

"He's fine, getting more active every day. He's with Uncle Alberto and Auntie Marisol today, so we can take you out to lunch."

"That's good."

My dad turned to Weldon. "So, Weldon. How are you enjoying traveling around the Hoenn Region?"

"Oh… I-It's been…really great. It's hot, but there's so much to do."

My mom nodded. "I agree. I thought it was too hot when I grew up here, but now, I prefer this weather."

"What have you done so far?" my dad asked.

I looked at Weldon, and he appeared more uneasy. "W-Well… We…traveled from here…to Lavaridge Town…and…um…"

I felt his heart throb in pain, and I winced.

My rival stood up abruptly. "I…I think I'm getting a call. Excuse me."

He speed walked towards the exit.

"Weldon…" I was able to stand up, but my mom stopped me.

She looked at my dad, and he nodded. "I'll check up on Weldon. Go ahead and eat if the food comes."

He followed the Kantonian outside.

I bit my lip. Did I make Weldon uncomfortable by coming here? I knew I shouldn't have brought up the meeting with my parents. Now he won't want to travel with me anymore.

I recovered as the waiter brought us our drinks. I sipped the milkshake as Lightning drank her Oran Berry juice.

My mom stirred her vanilla milkshake with her straw. "What do you think of Weldon, Summer? He seems nice and polite, despite his nervousness. He's also quite good looking for his age."

I blushed, then slowly replied, "He's…He's a really great person. He's strong, smart, and a little cautious. He's also tough with training and teaching people. But…once you get to know him better, he's a caring and sensitive guy deep down. He wants to make those close to him happy."

My mom smiled. "Sounds like you did just that with him. I'm proud of you, Summer."

"But, he's also had some trauma growing up that made him so cautious. I…I think this lunch may have triggered it."

I buried my head in my hands as Lightning nuzzled my arm. I felt a warm touch on my right hand.

"It's all right, Summer. Come here."

My mom gave me a side hug, and I accepted her embrace.

Holding back tears, I asked, "I-Is it my fault, Mommy?"

"Of course not," she said as she petted my head. "It was nice of you to extend the invitation. I'm sure Weldon's nervous because he's meeting us for the first time and wanted to make a good impression."

"Do you really think so?"

She knowingly smiled as our food came. As I ate my hamburger, I wondered when my dad and Weldon would come back.


A panicked Weldon found an empty bench near Seaking's Burgers and sat down. He hid his face so that no one could see the tears starting to stream down.

Dang it! How could I act like that, embarrassing myself in front of her parents?! I'm such an idiot! Maybe…Maybe we weren't meant to be together after all.

He then noticed someone was watching him. Wiping his eyes, he looked up and saw Summer's father nearby.

The older man motioned to the empty side of the bench. "Is it alright if I sit with you, Weldon?"

The pre-teen nodded.

William handed him a pack of tissues. "Don't worry, go ahead and take all the time you need."

The Kantonian blew his nose. "Th-Thanks, Mr. Scorcher. I-I'm sorry I behaved like that."

Her dad chuckled. "Not at all. You're just nervous. I expected as much from the boy who has a crush on my daughter."

Weldon choked on his saliva and coughed. "Y-You know?"

"Summer's mom and I had an inkling. To tell you the truth, I felt the same way when I asked Summer's mom out on a date. I was so sweaty, I almost fainted and had to be taken to the hospital."

"Oh my Arceus, really?"

William leaned back. "Yeah, it was pretty embarrassing. But if I hadn't done that, I wouldn't have ever married Anna, and I definitely wouldn't have our kids. I guess the point I'm making is that it's okay to be scared and nervous about these things. They're all part of growing up."

Weldon smiled. "I see. It's nice to talk about these things with an older guy. The men I've met before…haven't always been as willing to listen to my emotional problems."

Summer's dad grinned. "Of course. Not to surprise you, but Summer's mom and I have known Camilla and James for a long time, so I know it's been hard for you growing up without your dad."

Groaning, Weldon, replied, "So you know her too... But wait, you aren't related to a battling family, are you?"

"No, we aren't. Camilla and Summer's uncle, Alberto, have known each for a long time, so we usually see her when she visits the Hoenn Region."

"So that's why Mom brings back all this produce when she returns from her Hoenn trips. They are pretty good, to be honest."

William laughed. "I'll pass on your compliment to Alberto. I'm sure he'll be thrilled." He then became serious. "So…are you going to ask Summer out?"

Knowing he wouldn't judge him, Weldon replied, clasping his hands, "I-I don't know yet… I do like Summer…but I don't want to ruin our friendship."

"In that case, you should continue your friendship and see how it goes from there. You'll know when you're ready to ask her out."

"Really? I can do that?"

"If that's what you want. Just don't make any sudden moves on my daughter. She'll tell me if those kinds of things happen."

"I-I won't, don't worry, Mr. Scorcher!" Weldon's stomach growled. "Guess it's time to eat lunch… Thanks for listening to me, Mr. Scorcher."

"Any time. If you're comfortable with it, you can give me a call whenever you have these thoughts. I'll be happy to help in any way I can."

"I appreciate that."

After exchanging numbers, they headed back to the restaurant.


We were halfway done with our burgers when Weldon and my dad returned.

"Are you okay, Weldon?" I asked as I started to get up.

"I'm fine, Summer. Thanks to your dad."

Sensing he truly was, I sat back down.

"When did the food come?" my dad asked.

My mom replied, "Maybe ten minutes ago. Don't worry, they're still hot thanks to the heated baskets."

"That's why I love this place."

We laughed, and the boys ate their food. Seeing Weldon more relaxed let me enjoy the rest of my meal.

After we all finished eating, my dad paid, and we left the building.

"Did everyone enjoy the food?" he asked.

I nodded. "Of course. Seaking's Burgers are always good."

"I agree," Weldon added. "This was the best burger I've had from a fast food joint."

"We're glad to hear that," my mom said with a beaming smile. "Anyway, you two should relax as much as you can before the Gym battle."

"Mom…you know I can't."

She hugged me. "You'll do fine, Summer. Just be confident, okay?"

"All right, I will."

After hugging my dad, I said, "Have a safe trip back and say hi to Raymond, Uncle Alberto, and Auntie Marisol for me."

My mom nodded. "We will." She turned to my traveling companion. "It was great meeting you, Weldon. I'm glad to know someone like you is traveling with Summer."

My dad lovingly held my mom's hand. "Yes, it is. Don't forget what I told you, okay?"

He bowed. "I won't. It was great meeting you too, Mr. and Mrs. Scorcher. I apologize for how I acted earlier."

"It's all right, Weldon," my mom reassured. "Enjoy the rest of your time in Hoenn."

"Thank you."

We waved goodbye, then my parents, holding hands, walked on Route 102.

I turned to Weldon. "I'm sorry about that, Weldon. I didn't know meeting my parents would make you so agitated."

He chuckled. "No, that wasn't it. But I do appreciate you worrying about me."

"Then, what did you talk to my dad about?"

"You and your inquisitive nature." He walked away, grinning. "It's a secret."

"Oh, come on!" But I accepted his silence as we walked back to the Pokémon Center.

Summer's Pokémon:

Blaze (Blaziken, male): Brave Nature, Blaze Ability, moves: Fire Punch, Flamethrower, Blaze Kick, Sky Uppercut

Errol (Noctowl, male): Rash Nature, Keen Eye Ability, moves: Psychic, Confusion, Hypnosis, Air Slash, Heat Wave (learning)

Aurora (Dewgong, female): Calm Nature, Thick Fat Ability, moves: Water Pulse, Ice Beam, Aqua Tail, Signal Beam

Lightning (Raichu, female): Adamant Nature, Static Ability, moves: Thunderbolt, Iron Tail, Thunder Punch, Grass Knot

Rocky (Steelix, male): Lonely Nature, Rock Head Ability, moves: Stone Edge, Crunch, Dragonbreath, Iron Tail

Olive (Grovyle, female): Timid Nature, Overgrow Ability, moves: Fury Cutter, Screech, Mega Drain, Quick Attack

Weldon's Pokémon:

Venusaur (male): Serious Nature, Overgrow Ability, moves: Razor Leaf, Earthquake, Sludge Bomb, Vine Whip; in rotation- Solarbeam, Body Slam

Fearow (male): Adamant Nature, Keen Eye Ability, moves: Drill Peck, Steel Wing, Fury Attack, Aerial Ace, Heat Wave (learning)

Golem (male): Bold Nature, Rock Head Ability, moves: Rock Slide, Earthquake, Rollout, Double Edge

Gyarados (male): Sassy Nature, Intimidate Ability, moves: Surf, Ice Fang, Payback, Waterfall

Arcanine (male): Naughty Nature, Flash Fire Ability, moves: Hyper Beam, Extremespeed, Flare Blitz, Fire Blast

Electabuzz (male): Rash Nature, Static Ability, moves: Thunder, Mega Kick, Thunder Punch, Shock Wave

Questions for the Chapter:

What did you think of the lunch with Summer's parents?

What did you think of Weldon and Summer's dad's conversation?

How will the Gym battle go?