I Never Knew

~ Hi guys! Me again. Had to right another fic, needed to have a break from my HUGE saga! Anyway, hope you like this. Won’t be spending too much time on it, but hey, its all for fun ~

Ash looked up from the arena to find his opponent smiling down at him. He reluctantly re-called his battered Noctowl into its pokeball. It was his last match, the finals of the Jhoto League. The stadium was awesome, holding a capacity of 60,000 cheering fans. However, Ash was not sure how many of those 60,000 fans were cheering for him or for the man standing opposite. Ok… so there was Brock, Ash’s best friend, Tracey, his companion and also one of the most skilled pokemon watchers there was, and finally, Ash’s Mother, who confidently held him in high spirits. He had to laugh at them, covered in banners and wearing t-shirts that said ‘ASH; FUTURE POKEMON MASTER’. Looking at them, he knew that whatever the outcome of this match, he would not be a disappointment in their eyes. And that’s what he valued most about his friends. Then, something (or should I say someone) caught his eye. She had long, wavy red hair that travelled down the length of her back. It swayed with her movements as she took a seat next to his mother. He saw her place a hand on his mothers shoulder and whisper something into her ear. It was then that she made eye contact with Ash. She smiled brightly at him and mouthed, “You can do this”. Ash gazed at her for a minute or two before returning her bright smile and mouthing back “Thank you”. Then, Ash managed to tear his gaze away from her and back onto his last battle.

“Ash”

Ash’s attention was taken up to his opponent.

“This is going to be our last battle. Let’s make it a good one.”

Ash smiled at the remark.

“I wouldn’t let it be anything else, Gary.”

Gary watched Ash as he called for his last pokemon. Gary had no hesitation in thinking that it would be his strongest. And that meant Ash’s Pikachu. Sure enough, Ash called for Pikachu to take to the battle arena, it’s little legs held so much power as it ran to confront whatever pokemon Gary would release. Even though Ash didn’t know it, Gary thought that Ash was lucky to have such a loyal pokemon. Of course, all his pokemon would obey his commands, but the bond that Ash and Pikachu shared surpassed any feeling Gary would ever hope in achieving with his pokemon. Nevertheless, this battle was going to be the decider. They each had one last pokemon left. The winner claimed all the fans, the glory and the title of Jhoto League Pokemon Master. Gary reached behind him and pulled out a small pokeball. Enlarging it in his hands, he silently whispered a few words of comfort before throwing the ball onto the battlefield. The pokemon was released, and before Ash stood an Umbreon.

“Just what I was expecting,” commented Ash. “I knew you’d save you’re best ‘til last.”

“What else were you expecting Ash?” Gary asked, not anticipating an answer.

“Pikachu! Thunder!”

Pikachu released the attack upon its opponent. The Umbreon received the attack and flinched from the pain. However, the attack didn’t last forever, and so Umbreon was able to prepare itself to take on the offensive.

“Umbreon! Tackle it!”

The dark and shrouded looking pokemon did not hesitate and slammed its body into Pikachu. It did not yelp in pain and only accepted the fact that this was going to be a hard battle.

“Now Umbreon, Shadow it!” cried Gary.

“Shadow? What’s that?” Ash asked, completely bewildered.

The Umbreon did not move but only seemed to glow with a dark energy. Ash saw this and only grunted in response.

“Pikachu! Don’t let it attack you!”

Pikachu ran to the Umbreon at full blast and knocked it off balance so it was unable to finish its attack.

“Now Pikachu! Thunder bolt! Max power!”

With a surging cry, gathering all the energy it had, Pikachu released its savage attack on the Umbreon. Gary had ordered it to get out of the way and even though it complied, there was no hope. Gary’s eyes widened as his Umbreon was engulfed with crackling electricity. Just the strength of the attack sent smoke rising into the air. The dark, thick cloud covered the battlefield and both trainers had to cover their mouths to stop the intake of such filth. Eventually, the smoke passed, leaving two fainted pokemon amongst the silent arena. Gary’s Umbreon was completely knocked out, its body still surging with electricity every now and then. Ash looked at his Pikachu and gasped. It too had fallen and was not moving. Ash’s thoughts whirled, kicking himself mentally for using such a powerful attack, knowing full well what the consequences would be. But then, there was movement. Pikachu lifted its head up and looked at its surroundings.

“Pika?” It said almost too weakly for Ash to bear.

“Pikachu!”

Upon hearing its trainer’s voice, Pikachu instinctively stood up. And as soon as he did so, the final match had been declared.

“Umbreon is unable to battle. The green trainer, Ash Ketchum is victorious!”

And with that conformation, the whole stadium stood and cheered. At first Ash could not believe it. Numerous amounts of unknown people started to gather round him, crowding him as he leapt off the battling stand. It was almost claustrophobic. But when Ash’s eyes came to rest upon his Pikachu running towards him, he knew he had just made part of his life long dream a reality.

‘Just a touch of lip-gloss, and I’m done!’

Misty reeled herself over to the dresser and picked up a small clear tube. Dabbing a bit on her lips, she smoothed it out and looked at her reflection in the mirror. She turned once to her left, and once again, scrunching her nose as she did so.

‘Maybe this outfit is all wrong. Black never did look good on me.’

After deciding that the skimpy, little, black dress was too revealing for such an event as tonight, Misty settled for a white mini skirt with matching shoes, complimented by a loose sky blue top. It hung over one shoulder, exposing a thin white lace strap that belonged to her bra. But it didn’t matter to her. In fact, revealing a little flesh made her feel a little less flustered. You see, Ash was about to return home any minute now and she was in a state of panic. She had planned him a surprise party, inviting almost everyone they had met on their journey. It was going to be wonderful, but there was a slight problem…

“Misty dear! They’re just pulling up!”

‘Oh crap!’

Misty took one last look at her appearance before running out of the room and down the stairs. When she reached the living room of the Ketchum residence, she was greeted with a warm smile from Delia.

“Oh Misty, you look wonderful!” she said sincerely.

“Thank you, Mrs.Ketchum. Is everything set?” asked Misty, peeping out of the front window as she did so.

“Yes, it’s all in place.”

“Perfect,” Misty said, watching intently as Ash climbed out from the car, accompanied by Brock and Tracey, and slowly made their way to the front door. She moved quickly as to avoid him seeing her as the door slowly opened and Ash bounded in.

“Mom! I’m back!” he shouted, eagerly wanting to find his mother. He looked into the kitchen and then into the living room, but there was no one in sight. Ash frowned, knowing that this sort of behaviour from his mother was strange, especially seeing that he had just completed his dream of winning the Jhoto league. He hadn’t managed to catch her after the match either. Everyone had seemed to have magically disappeared. (Coincidence? I think not!)

“Mom?” He asked again. But there was no answer. The place seemed deserted. No one was in sight. Brock and Tracey came in behind him, also to see that the house looked completely uninhabited. There wasn’t even a trace of her Mr.Mime.

“Hey, where is she?”

“Hmm…I don’t know. It’s not like Mrs.Ketchum to miss an occasion such as this,” said Brock, trying not to smile as he did so.

“I’m gunna check the back. You guys keep looking for her,” called Ash as he made his way to the back of the house. Night had quickly crept over the day, and Ash couldn’t see a damned thing outside. So, he flipped on the porch light, hoping that she was outside just observing the stars like they used to.

“SURPRISE!”

Amongst the darkness of Ash’s garden emerged a crowd of people. Each and every one of them was a familiar face of his life. He was shocked! Someone had arranged all this for him? Ash recognised three people that started towards him. It was his mother, Professor Oak and Gary.

“Mom, you did this for me?” Ash asked, tears shining lightly in his eyes. He was overwhelmed with the amount of people that had come to share his triumph with him.

“Well, I can’t take all the credit. Oh I’m so proud of you Ash,” replied Mrs.Ketchum, wrapping Ash in her arms as she did so. Ash returned the hug, a huge grin spreading over his face. He loved pleasing his Mom.

“I was lucky, right Gary?” said Ash, once released for the hug. He turned to Gary who only slapped him on the back through mutual friendship. They had been friends for sometime now, their relationship being patched back together by a certain redhead. Ash frowned suddenly, recalling that day in his mind. ‘That was also the same day that Misty had left.’

“It was a close match Ash, but I can see that the better man won,” said Gary sincerely. Ash was almost knocked off-guard by the sincere voice that disturbed his thoughts. Even though they were friends again, Gary never complimented anyone but Misty. Despite this though, Ash was still touched.

“Thanks Gary, that means a lot to me.”

“That was an impressive match Ash,” chimed Professor Oak, “I’ve not seen an electrical attack that powerful. You will have to let me borrow your Pikachu for research one day.”

“Sure, no problem Professor. But it’ll have to wait until he’s out of the Pokemon Centre.” But the professor wasn’t listening, he had already turned to face Ash’s mother.

“Care to dance Delia?” questioned the Professor at Ash’s Mom

“Why of course!” And with that cheery reply, Delia and Professor Oak left the two champions of Jhoto behind. Ash smiled, glad that his mother finally found someone that she cared about. It had been a while since she had a man around the house, yet somehow Ash was suspecting a relationship would form between the two of them. If that happened to be their fate, then he would most certainly support her decision. After all, wasn’t she staying at Professor Oak’s house tonight? A hand on Ash’s shoulder brought him out of his thoughts. He looked behind him to see Tracey, Gary and Brock grinning evilly.

“Hey, you planned this didn’t you?” Said Ash, pointing an accusing finger at his two travelling companions.

“Hey, we knew about it, but we didn’t plan it,” replied Tracey, pushing Ash’s hand back down to his side.

“Then who did organise it?” asked Ash, quizzically.

“Now, if we told ya that Ash, we’d have to kill you,” said Gary, placing and arm over Ash’s shoulders and leading him towards the party where various people were gathered. “What’s the matter? Don’t ya like it?”

“No, it’s not that. I just wanted to know who would go to so much trouble…”

Ash was about to finish his sentence when another pair of arms were sent to rest upon his shoulders. He looked to his left to see a pair of squinty eyes. “Now Ash, stop complaining and just enjoy the party,” persuaded Brock, his head turning sharply to follow the path of the Nurse Joy from Veridian City. His grin grew wider, the prospect of gaining a women in reach. “I know I will.”

Ash laughed as he watched his loved up friend chase after yet another hopeless affair. If there was one thing that he would never get tired of, it was Brock and his determination to get a girl. It was even funnier to watch Brock get pulled away from his ‘true love’ by Gary and Tracey, shaking their heads in pity. Being left alone, Ash finally had the opportunity to take in his surroundings. His garden had been completely transformed! There were lights that bordered the whole area, flashing in time with the blearing music; the dance floor was raised and stood as the main attraction of the party. The drinks area was to his left, a boudoir styled bar with inviting stools and comfortable sitting areas. On the other side of the garden was the food table; beautifully complimented by pure white lilies … … suddenly Ash’s mind whirled. FOOD! He had forgotten how starved he was from his final battle! Without wasting anymore time, Ash dashed for the food court and dug in to the assortment of appetisers. All of which, he noted observantly, were his favourites. After Ash had devoured a few platefuls, he heard a soft voice call his name. He turned round and his jaw almost dropped to the floor as he noticed Misty running towards him.

“Ash!” she called again, a bright smile forming on her face.

“Misty!” Ash called back as he quickly embraced her in a hug.

“Ash, I knew you could do it!” she beamed at him and pulled him into yet another hug. Ash only giggled, not used to getting this much attention from the slightly older redhead.

“You made it to the match,” was all he could say in return.

“Of course! I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. You know that Ash,” she remarked, jabbing him playfully in the arm.

“Yeah I know. I didn’t doubt you for a second.”

Misty glared at Ash, placing her hands on her hips. A small curve came to her lips once more as Ash threw his hands up in defeat.

“Ok, Ok. Maybe I did doubt you for a bit. But I’m glad you came.” Ash replied sincerely, looking into her eyes and taking a quick glance over her body when she didn’t notice. Sometimes, Misty really could make herself look absolutely ravishing. And that’s what he had missed about her when she’d left him nearly 6 months ago. For the last few years of travelling together, Ash had noticed that she had been getting more and more striking with every break of a new day. ‘Especially when she woke up,’ Ash said in his thoughts. ‘Now that was ravishing’ he thought, a smile forming his face. But even though their friendship had developed immensely since their travelling days, he would never admit that to her.

“So, what do ya think?” Misty asked, her hands gesturing in the air as she twirled round, looking at the scenery around her as she did so.

“You look great Mist,” Ash replied truthfully, a slight blush creeping up to his cheeks. Ash still hadn’t figured out why his body reacted that way around her.

“Ash, I wasn’t talking about me,” Misty’s voice was slightly aggravated as she placed her hands on her hips once more. Ash watched in bewilderment as her facial features soften into a sexy smile. “But thanks anyway,” she concluded by giving Ash a sly wink. Again, Ash felt a bit of heat to his cheeks, still confused about exactly what he was feeling. This hadn’t happened to him before! Then again, he hadn’t seen her for two months now; maybe it was just the subtle changes he had noticed in her since their last meeting that was making him blush. ‘Yeah, that must be it,’ he thought proudly. With his mind satisfied with a somewhat logical answer, Ash continued his conversation with Misty.

“So, what were you talking about then?” Ash asked, grabbing Misty’s bare arm and leading her for a walk around the outskirts of the party. However, Ash pulled away from the contact when his arm experienced a tingling sensation, like electricity. It was a pleasant experience, but Ash thought it safe to pull away from her, still unsure exactly what was happening between them.

“About this Ash,” said Misty, gesturing to the atmosphere in Ash’s garden. Ash followed her gaze and smiled, placing his hands in his black trousers.

“Its an amazing surprise. The last thing I expected to come home to actually. Whoever did this seems to know me inside out. Everything is perfect,” replied Ash, gazing at all the familiar faces before him, smiling and dancing and overall having a great evening.

“Well I like to think I know you Ash. I tried to make this exactly how you’d want it.”

Shocked, Ash stopped in his tracks and gently pulled Misty round to face him. His eyes searched hers in disbelief. ‘Misty did this for me?’ Ash’s open mouth slowly closed and it eventually formed into a smile. He could only speak his mind.

“You did all this for me?” he asked, gesturing to the atmosphere around him to add emphasis.

“Yeah, I did,” replied Misty, standing her ground as Ash slowly walked towards her, minimising the space that was between them. “But I can’t take all the credit. I had quite a bit of help, especially from your Mom…” Her voice trailed off as she noticed that Ash was only a few inches from her face now. She could feel her composure start to break down. He stared down into her eyes.

“But why?”

It was a sincere question; there was no doubt about that. In fact, Ash had no idea what he was doing. He was so close to her that he could feel the slight warmth of her breath on his lips. Sure, they had been this close before. Hell, they’ve even kissed before. But that was only on the cheek, wishing Misty to sleep well one night on their journey when she had got the flu. But being this close to her without a reason… it was intoxicating, and confusing at the same time. He had never had this feeling around her before, and it scared him. He continued to look into her eyes, seeking for an answer and savouring the closeness they shared.

“Because you deserve it Ash,” said Misty, the most earnest look glazed over her eyes. “Not once have you ever backed down from a battle. You’ve always had the determination to achieve your goal, and I…” Misty paused, her eyes darting away from Ash’s in an instant.

“And you what, Mist?” Ash asked, purging the answer from her as he dared to close the distance between them even more. Misty’s eyes blinked up to meet his.

“And I admire that in you,” Misty finally finished, a weary expression on her delicate face. Misty watched his reaction, and a slow smile formed his face. She stared in awe, but frowned again when his grin grew bigger. He moved away from her slightly, and Misty was able to let out the breath that she had been holding.

“The Great Misty Waterflower, taking time out of her busy schedule to pay ME a compliment?” Said Ash, mocking her as he did so. Misty expected a sly comment like that coming from him and she only growled in frustration before turning away. Just as she was about to walk, she felt herself being stopped. She looked back at Ash again and watched him giggle.

“Hey!” squealed Misty, her hands once again returning to her hips, the supposed romantic moment (if that’s what you could call it) ruined efficiently. She pouted and pointed an accusing finger at him. “I meant that you know!” Her voice was aggravated and his giggles died down. God, he loved teasing her.

“Yeah, I know,” he said smiling and pulled her arm again to continue their walk, trying to ignore the tingling feeling that he felt once again from her bare arm. Misty only sighed in return knowing Ash was once again winding her up. During the months that she had left Ash to look after the Cerulean Gym, she realised that she hated not having anyone to talk to.

“So how’s the gym doing?” asked Ash, interrupting Misty’s thoughts.

Misty sighed again. “It’s OK, I guess”.

“What do you mean?”

Before answering, Misty stopped and sat down on a near by bench, gazing up at the stars. Ash followed her movements, tempted for some strange reason to place and arm around her. Denying for his arm to do so, Ash locked his hands together on his lap to prevent any other form of temptation.

“It’s just that…well…it gets really lonely there now. My sisters don’t return for a few more months, and without them, there’s not many people I can talk to,” said Misty slowly, her gaze never shifting from the stars. “ I just wish I was back on the road, having some wild adventure with my friends again.” Instead, she was stuck at the Cerulean Gym, being the only able carer in the country to withhold its reputation.

At this Ash smiled. He remembered all the emails he had sent her whenever they reached a pokemon centre, explaining all the escapades the three boys had shared. And he also remembered the longing replies that he’d receive from her. From the way that her replies were transcribed, Ash could tell that life at her gym was not the same anymore. It was because of those desperate emails that Ash felt the need to see her again.

“Hey, remember when I came round to see you, and you creamed that kids’ Lantern?” asked Ash, remembering that day as if it was yesterday. He could still picture exactly the way Misty looked too…

A laugh brought Ash out of his thoughts. He looked to Misty and saw her smiling brightly.

“ You should have seen your face! You never did have much faith in me as a gym leader!”

Ash mimicked her smile. “I never said that, but you sure as hell were lucky!”

Misty turned to him sharply, a pout forming her lips as she did so. “That was pure skill, Ash Ketchum, and you know it!”

Ash’s smile grew wider; his plan to work her up again was affective. He was about to initiate another quick and snappy remark to agitate her even more when a figure appeared in front of them. Ash looked up to see the smiling face of Gary as he laid eyes on Misty.

“Hey Misty, you’re looking great!” he said to her, taking her hand and lifting her up in the process. Misty returned the smile and pulled the young man into a hug, noticing the distinct smell of his cologne as she did so.

“Hey, you don’t look so bad yourself, Trig,” answered Misty, pulling away from his gentle yet unwanted embrace.

Gary smiled at the nickname. Why on earth she had started to call him that was a mystery, but he loved it all the same. After all, he owed that beautiful redhead so much. Noticing Ash for the first time, Gary turned and asked him, “Mind if I take her for a dance?”

Misty smiled at the gesture and placed her silky hand in Gary’s palm. Seeing this, Ash had no reason to object. It seemed Misty was raring to try out her dancing skills. After an inaudible “Help yourself”, Ash watched on as the two walked away hand in hand. Ash felt his heart clutch together, and wondered why he was feeling so strange, why he was experiencing an inner pain. If he were more honest with himself, he would know that the feeling wasn’t pain, but longing. Making a mental note not to drink too much tonight, Ash rose from the bench he had previously been sharing with Misty and made his way towards the boudoir bar.

“I take it you haven’t told him yet,” stated Gary swinging Misty round on the over crowded dance floor.

“Told him what?” she asked innocently, an unsullied look plastered to her face.

Gary stopped dancing, the song swiftly changing to a slow dance. He smiled as he moved to hold Misty close, keeping eye contact with her face at all times.

“I can’t believe you’re still in denial about it Misty.”

Misty smiled up at Gary, noticing his sudden persona change. “Gary,” she started, moving a lock of loose hair behind her ear, “I’m not in denial. If I was, then I wouldn’t have told you my feelings towards Ash in the first place.”

Gary pulled away from her body to capture the sight of her face fully. His expression was exasperated.

“Told me?! Oh please Misty, it took me the whole day to drag the answer out of you. And even when I did you still wouldn’t say the exact words!” Gary claimed, smiling brightly as the memory was relived again in his mind.

*** FLASHBACK ***

He remembered following Misty to a nearby lake close to where they had stopped for dinner. She had been walking on air that whole day, and he knew that Ash was the reason why. Brock had also commented on her pleasant mood earlier that day, noticing how strange it was for the young redhead to actually offer to do all their daily jobs, including the washing up. Intrigued by this, Gary had emerged from his hiding place in the bushes, and challenged Ash to a pokemon battle. Of course, he wasn’t welcomed very pleasantly, especially after he kicked Ketchum’s butt. He had also watched in amusement as Misty’s face faltered at Ash’s defeat. Was there more to this girl then what he first thought? Now, he was following Misty and watched her sit down, dipping her feet into the cooling water. He did the same, and he watched her flinch as he did so.

“What are you doing here, Gary.”

Her voice was harsh, but she had a right to be. He knew that he didn’t get on well with Ketchum’s group of friends, but that was only because they didn’t know him. And that was exactly why he was here. Exactly why he wanted to prove to them all that he had changed. He was lonely on his travels around Jhoto, walking for hours through thick forests without seeing or even talking to another person for days on end. He really wanted to change that.

“Can’t I enjoy the water?” he asked her calmly.

“What’s your problem Gary?” asked Misty, cold ice blue eyes spinning round to meet his brown ones.

Gary looked down from her gaze, admittedly threatened by it. Silence filled the air between the two; only a slight breeze disturbed the water trickling around their dangled feet. Soon, Gary couldn’t take the silence that fell around them. He came here for one thing, to reconcile the past with Ash and his friends. He knew that they disliked him for the way he had treated Ash all those years back in Kanto, but couldn’t they see how he had changed?

“ I don’t have a problem,” he answered, after what felt like eternity. “ I just can’t understand why we can’t forget the past…”

When Gary was trying to finish off his sentence, he was jogged suddenly as Misty rose. The sudden movement forced Gary to look up and follow her actions. She rose tall over his sitting posture, and glared down at him sincerely.

“Why?” she asked, almost no emotion within that voice of hers. “WHY?!?” He edged back at her response and sudden change of mood as she almost spat the words into Gary’s face. “Because YOU are the one that put Ash down, because YOU are the one that that made him lose faith in himself, because YOU are the one that taunted him so bad that he nearly gave up on thousands occasions! Because YOU are the only one that can get through to him!”

Gary stared at her in disbelief. Her breathing was ragged, from all the shouting and emphasis; her face was blotched in ruby, marking the full extent of her passion. All they did was stare at each other, Misty still feeling the emotion bubbling up inside her. After a few minutes, she turned triumphantly and strode away from him; every step hammered to the floor. Gary only looked on for a while, and smiled to himself.

Misty was almost out of earshot from that creep when she heard him shout out, “I never knew you cared so much!”

Although rage still filled her, Misty couldn’t help but stop at Gary’s comment. Even with her fists still clutched, Misty could feel a slight blush rise to her cheeks. ‘I really did let my anger get the better of me this time,’ she thought, trying not to think of Ash as she turned around and walked back to where Gary was still sitting. She stopped a few metres away from him, and she moved her gaze to meet his arrogant eyes. But wait… his eyes weren’t arrogant, filled with sarcasm and taunts like the insistent jerk she knew. Instead, they were soft, and looking at her with understanding. Her features finally softened as she thought, ‘Maybe he has changed.’

Gary patted the space next to him, motioning her to sit down. Misty stared at him. ‘He might have changed, but I don’t trust him just yet’, she told herself as she sat down on a rock not too far away from him. It over looked the lake, and she sighed in contempt.

“He’s lucky to have friends like you.”

Misty brought her gaze up to meet Gary’s soft eyes. She smiled to herself, not clearly knowing exactly what he was up to. Gary only watched her, as she brought her knees up to her chest and hugged them. He smiled at the action. From what he had observed about Ash’s redheaded friend, Misty Waterflower was a stubborn, mean, aggressive little madam. But here she was, sitting around her serenity, and the only person around for miles that was talking to him at the moment. But there was a hidden meaning about this exterior that she used through her day-to-day life, and Gary had picked it up within an instant. She loved Ash. And had done for a long, long time.

Misty’s eyes flashed with recognition, as Gary’s arms encircled her into the slow, rhythmic music. He smiled down at her, and edged her closer, drawing their bodies together. Misty could feel his breath against her ear, and she closed her eyes.

“Tell him Misty”

Misty’s eyes flickered open at the whisper. She drew in a deep breath, which only made the space between them even less.

“I will, but in my own time,” she replied, not fully knowing how to react. The butterflies in her stomach rose as she pondered on the proposal of admitting her feelings towards Ash. Would he laugh? Would he taunt her, mock her until her heart broke and shattered inside her own body? Misty shuddered at the thought. Gary felt her body twitch and he knew immediately that she was thinking about rejection. His features softened before her as he stepped away and offered her his hand. Misty, grateful to get out of the overly claustrophobic dance floor, took up his offer willingly.

“C’mon, I’ll get you a drink,” said Gary, as he led her away from the crowd and towards the bar.

Ash moved his glass to his lips, and tilted the pint glass towards the sky. He made an inaudible groan when no refreshing liquid met his parched mouth. Slamming the glass back on the table, he reached for another. However, he was met with more misery to find that it too was empty. His mouth was dry, and he burned to find another drink. Looking around the comfortable surroundings of the boudoir bar, Ash tried to find someone that he knew to get him another drink. Although Ash had made a promise to himself not to drink too much, he had realised that he had failed as his gaze settled down on the six pint glasses in front of him. Richie had brought him the first one, and they had sat there quite contently sharing their experiences on their separate journeys. Ash was dazzled by stories of different pokemon, both legendary and abnormal, and even a few girlfriend situations that Richie had to deal with. It seemed that he had become quite popular with members of the opposite sex during the last year. It was then that Duplica had come over to congratulate him on his victory that day. The three friends had sat there for an hour or two enjoying each other’s company, not to mention the complimentary drinks that the bar provided. However, they had left him not too long ago to continue the party on the dance floor. In fact, he could see them now. Duplica, in a rather short but exquisite purple dress, twirling around elusively as Richie’s arms came around her body.

Ash looked away from the site. He wasn’t jealous… well not exactly. He just wished that he were having as much fun as the rest of his friends and family were. After all, it was a party for him, wasn’t it? That particular thought plagued Ash’s mind back to the same beautiful redhead that had organised the party. As far as he knew, she had been with Gary all night, and that wasn’t very good for Ash’s ego. It was true that Gary and Ash were practically best friends again, but when it came to Misty, Ash always thought there was something going on between the two. It would explain why she always seemed so happy around Gary, why he was always complimenting her, and why he always called her at the gym during their travels together in the last 6 months. But deep inside, Ash was beginning to realise how much he hoped that Misty and Gary were nothing but friends. Once Misty had left to return back to her home in Cerulean, Ash soon found that Gary could never replace her. Was that what was bugging him? Worried about Gary replacing Misty in his life?

Something caught Ash’s eye on the dance floor, and he could only stare at the sight of it. It was her. It was the first time that he had seen her since their conversation on the bench. Ash took in a sharp breath and watched as she moved her tantalising body to the rhythmic beats. As much as he wanted to, he couldn’t tear his eyes away from Misty, especially as she started to move down, her body swinging from side to side as she did so. She was in perfect time with the music, and she seemed to be enjoying herself as well. Her body turned, and Ash could see her face. He noted how she was slightly flustered, probably from alcohol. But the smile that formed on his face as he watched her died, when a tall but muscular man encircled his arms around her angelic skin. Ash frowned menacingly but was brought out of his raging thoughts as a hand came to rest itself on his shoulder. He turned round to see none other than Brock staring back at him. Ash motioned for him to take the seat opposite. Brock, although holding a Shandy in his hand, did not stagger to take the seat like most intoxicated males would. In conclusion to this, he observed that Brock was not drunk quite yet. Ash moved his eyes back to the dance floor, keeping a close eye on Misty and the mystery man she was dancing with.

Brock followed his gaze. “She’s a hell of a woman”.

Ash reverted his eyes back onto Brock and looked at him unknowingly. “Yeah, she is”.

Brock watched Ash’s features, and knew straight away what he was feeling. Together, they watched Misty dance in another guy’s arms but, much to Ash’s dislike, the guy started to kiss the side of Misty’s neck. Ash groaned loudly and turned away from the sight. “I’m gunna get a drink,” he moaned, standing and turning his back to the couple.

The older and former gym leader of Pewter followed his best friend, as they ordered another round of drinks. Brock slapped a hand on Ash’s back in aid of cheering him up. “Look man, what gives? This is supposed to be the best night of your life!”

Ash turned to answer his friends’ question, “I dunno. I just…I just can’t seem to get her out of my mind.”

Brock smiled, hoping that finally Ash would have worked out his feelings towards Misty. Everyone knew it apart from them. “You like her, Ash?” he asked, purging a hopeful answer from him.

Ash took a seat at the same table he had been at most of the evening, placing yet another pint in front of him. His gaze travelled back to the dance floor, a longing and buoyant look in his eyes. To his relief, Misty was not in the arms of someone else, but was happily dancing with Duplica. Richie was close behind them snogging some girl that Ash had never seen before in his life. But seeing that only deepened the emptiness that Ash was feeling.

“Ash?” asked Brock, concerned for his best friend.

“Yeah, I do like her Brock,” said Ash, his eyes constantly glued on the redhead in question at the dance floor. Brock smiled, glad that Ash finally admitted his feelings to himself, but his smile soon faded as Ash continued. “She’s my best friend, why wouldn’t I like her?”

Brock sighed and brought the new Smirnoff Ice bottle towards his lips. He took a big gulp before looking back at Ash. “You know that’s not what I meant,” said Brock, trying not to be too obvious with where he was trying to edge the conversation.

Ash tore away his gaze and settled it upon Brock. “Ya mean, do I want her?” Brock only nodded in response.

Ash smiled, “Of course I want her. Anyone in their right mind would have her Brock. It’s like you were saying earlier, she’s a hell of a woman. But… it’s more complicated than that.”

Brock rose one of his eyebrows. “How?”

Ash’s gaze now reverted down to the table where his hand fondled with another pint glass. This time however, it was full, but Ash wasn’t in the mood to drink now. He sighed heavily, “I don’t know Brock, I really don’t. I wish I did. I wish I knew why I’m feeling this way.” Brock looked at his friend curiously. Silence fell between the two for a short while, Brock thinking of a way to approach his friends distraught feelings. “Would you ever have her Brock?” asked Ash sincerely, bringing Brock about from his thoughts.

Brock was a bit taken back by the question at hand, but answered as truthfully as possible. “No. I wouldn’t,” he replied, looking over at the redhead in question as he continued. “She’s like the elder sister I never had, just like you are the younger brother that I’ve always wanted.”

Ash smiled at the comment before he frowned once again. “You see that’s how I thought about her too. But, in the last few years, I’ve been enjoying her company more than what I should. We’ve become close. Closer than ever before. You’ve noticed that, haven’t you?”

Brock nodded his head in agreement and leaned back in his chair, “Yeah I have. And it’s absolute peace. No more arguing over petty little things, and no more of that damned mallet of hers.”

Ash chuckled at Brocks statement. He knew that when they were younger, he and Misty used to drive Brock up the wall. But that was just the way that they had been during those times, the only way they could show their friendship. Whatever they said to each other, they never meant it. Although Misty could hit below the belt sometimes. But once their arguing had deceased, Ash started noticing a whole new side to Misty, one that he could not remove from his thoughts. “But sometimes,” started Ash, his voice barely above a whisper, “I wonder if I want more.”

Brock however, had picked up on what he had said but remained observant. He watched as Ash’s gaze fell upon Misty once again before smiling and remarking, “Geez man, you got it bad.”

Ash only smiled lightly at Brock’s comment, not separating his gaze from the wondrous sight before him. “I wouldn’t hurt her Brock,” said Ash, still transfixed upon Misty.

Brock rested a hand upon his shoulder. “I know,” he replied, encouraging Ash to drink up his drink. Ash took a sip unwillingly, amazed at how he could keep up a standard conversation without slurring his words at least once. Maybe he wasn’t as intoxicated as he thought he was.

“Do you love her?”

Ash immediately froze at the question, but then sighed. It would make sense if he did love her. It would explain all the jealousy he felt whenever she was with another guy, the way that every time he touched her or was near her, he instantly felt happy. Ash pondered on the thought a bit more but came up with no distinct answer. “I don’t know,” he replied to the man sitting opposite him.

Brock brought a hand up to rest his chin, deep in thought. He knew that Ash was dealing with conflicting hormones at the moment, wanting his best friend. But he also knew that if anything went wrong, it would be a disaster. Yet, he still believed that they were perfect together. They always knew how to cheer each other up, they always knew when one of them was upset… the list was endless. Hell, even Ash’s Mom asked if they had got together yet. But Brock could only give Ash his advice; the rest was up to him. Clearing his throat, Brock said, “Look Ash. I know I’m no mastermind when it comes to mishaps of the heart,” Brock received a chuckled from Ash at that point, which he scowled at. Nether the less, he continued. “But I know when you shouldn’t pass up a good opportunity.”

Ash smiled, “What are you saying Brock? That I should jump straight into bed with her if the opportunity arises?”

Brock folded his arms, slightly tired of Ash not getting the message. Even though Ash had become a tall, muscled and mature 18 year old, he still held some of his more ‘childish’ traits. Being dense was the most observant one. “Don’t even think about it mister,” said Brock, a scowl forming over his face. Ash relaxed his head, and Brock watched with some delight as it drifted down to meet with the table. Brock placed a hand on Ash’s back before saying, “Seriously, you get her hurt, physically or emotionally, and you’ll have me to deal with.”

Ash lifted his head from the table and looked at Brock. “Not to mention Gary, and Rudy, and Duplica, and my Mom, and Tracey and…”

Ash was about to finish listing the amount of people that would severely hurt him if anything happened to Misty, but was stopped when a new figure came by and sat at the opposite end of the table. Ash looked up as Gary placed a Shandy in front of Ash.

“Drinks on me,” he said with a wink, knowing full well that the bar was already paid for. However, when he wasn’t met with any response from Ash or Brock, Gary looked dumbfounded. “What?”

Ash only moaned in reply, letting his head fall upon the table once again. Gary leaned over towards Brock and whispered in his ear, “Is he drunk or what?”

“Not nearly enough” said Ash, hearing Gary’s whisper very clearly. His voice came out as a mere mumble due to the fact that his face was still pressed hard against the table’s soft surface.

“What’s his problem?” asked Gary who was now facing Brock.

“Girl problems. Not much to worry about,” said Brock, obviously trying to receive a comment from Ash. Ash immediately lifted his head up from the table and ran a hand through his jet-black hair.

“Not much to worry about? Hell, I’m almost dying here Brock!” moaned Ash, trying to get some sympathy from his best friend.

Hearing this, Gary soon perked up. This was the first time that Ash had ever mentioned having any women interests, and he hoped that he would be able to get a piece of the information. “Who’s the girl then?” asked Gary, hoping that either one of the young men in front of him would answer.

“Who else would it be?” questioned Brock, raising one eyebrow in the direction of the dance floor. Gary followed his gaze.

“Ash, you like Duplica?” said Gary, with as much disbelief in his voice as sarcasm.

At this Ash followed their gaze and slapped his forehead with his hand. He sighed loudly before saying, “No, not her! The one she’s dancing with!”

“You mean that bald headed bloke?”

Ash reached his boiling point, his face turning red with anger. Gary only laughed in response, holding his stomach as he did so. Realising that he wasn’t worth the effort of getting hotheaded about, Ash reached for the Shandy and took a few gulps. However, his eyes still remained focused on the dance floor as he watched Duplica and Richie drift off into the crowd. Misty was left alone, but it seemed that she didn’t care. She continued to dance freely, moving her body sensually. Ash’s mind started to reel with thoughts of them together, but he chose to dismiss them and concentrate on the conversation forming in front of him. He caught the last part of Brock’s sentence.

“… he doesn’t know how he feels for her though,” said Brock, filling in the details of Ash’s problem to Gary.

“Hey!” Brock and Gary were caught off guard by their friends raised voice. “I didn’t say that I didn’t know how I felt. It just don’t know what these feelings mean, that’s all,” said Ash, leaning back in his chair and bringing the Shandy to his lips once more. He’d had enough of this talk; it wasn’t getting him any closer to solving the problem. So, with the Shandy in hand, Ash rose from the table and made his way towards the dance floor. No matter what happened, he would enjoy this night, whether it meant being with or without Misty.

The vibrations whirled through her body as she moved. It was a weird sensation. Her body moved without her knowing it. But that was how it was supposed to be, how she wanted it to be. The song slowly came to a halt as the DJ found the next track to play. A wide smile formed Misty’s face as she recognised the next tune. It was one of the songs that she had chose for the Dance Show her and her sisters were planning to choreograph next season to rake in some extra cash for the gym. As the distinctive beat to ‘Crazy in love’ began to fill the open air, Misty’s mind reeled with all the possible dance combinations she could use. In fact, getting a little practise now would help wonders! At that thought, Misty let her body guide her to the flow of the music. Of course, she had to make it as sexy as possible, rolling her midriff and chest in time to the music. Beyonce’s lyrics rocketed through her, as she rolled her hands up across her body until they eventually reached the sky.

But then, she got the distinct feeling that she was alone. She looked behind her where Duplica and Richie were supposed to be dancing, but found, much to her dismay, that they had gone. She frowned and tutted at their behavior, for leaving her without a word, but the event did not stop her flowing body. Content with the beats that filled her ears, she resumed her concentration on her dance moves. Everything was going smoothly, her body complying with every command she gave. But it stopped suddenly as she felt a rough hand on her arm. She turned around to see who had wanted her attention only to find that no one was there. Misty stared, bewildered only for a second.

‘I swear I didn’t imagine that,’ she thought to herself before turning back around to continue dancing. She shook her head slightly, trying to rid the uneasiness from her mind. ‘Maybe it’s just the alcohol,’ she mused, but just as she started to regain her confidence, she felt that same roughness reach for her shoulder. Spinning round once again, Misty was met with nothing. This time however, she was more than a little agitated.

“God damn it!” she shouted into the air, at no one in particular. Who was playing this childish trick on her? However, Misty’s rage soon dissipated as she noticed the piercing gaze that the other dancers were giving her. Feeling a bit of heat rise up to her face, Misty turned to leave the dance floor, cursing herself as she did so. She walked down the steps that led to the raised dance platform and made her way to the house that stood firm within the hazy fade of the party lights. She strode on determinedly, wanting to reach the house limits as soon as possible. Yet, she was stopped once again, but this time on her own accord.

It was the sight in front of her that caused her feet to stop moving, and she could feel a lump rising up to her throat. Ahead of her, pressed up against the foundations of the Ketchum residence, was Ash, locked in the kissing embrace of whom other than Melody from the Orange Islands. Misty was shocked more than hurt. She didn’t even know that Melody was here! She sure as hell did not invite her! A smile formed her face as a plan emerged in her head. Drenching the two in cold water seemed very amusing to her. Misty took a few more paces towards the two, preparing to release her Staryu, but cringed as Melody pushed her body up towards Ash in a desperate attempt to turn him on. Misty had to stifle a giggle at that. I mean, she had tried to do that countless numbers of times with Ash, and she knew it was a no go area. He was too dense to register a come on! After all, she had been chasing him for 7 years now, and she had gained enough experience to know Ash’s ecstasies. But upon closer inspection, Misty observed that Ash wasn’t even enjoying the kiss. His arms were by his sides and his eyes were closed so tightly that one would think that Melody was hurting him. Taking pity for her best friend, Misty scrapped her genius plan and placed her hands on her hips. She cleared her throat loudly, making sure that the two heard her promptly.

She watched and she waited as a deep blush crept over Ash’s face. Melody however, dressed in her white ceremonial outfit, looked sternly at Misty, her arms folded across her chest.

“Yes? May we help you?” she asked, tapping her foot with irritation. Ash only stood there, looking between the two young women expecting a catfight to commence.

“Actually,” started Misty as she approached Ash and grasped his hand, “I think my friend here needs the help.” With that action, Misty pulled on Ash’s arm, leading him away from Melody. Misty heard him let out a sigh of relief.

“Hey! Where do you think you’re going?” shouted Melody, annoyed at the fact that the guy she was with just a minute ago was being lead away by another woman.

“I’m getting him the hell away from you! What does it look like?” replied Misty, stopping to face her before continuing back with Ash. Together they heard Melody pout and stomp off around the other side of the house. Misty let out a small giggle, trying to stop admitting to herself how much fun that was.

“Thanks,” muttered Ash, his face still a bit flustered. But he wasn’t blushing because Misty had caught him with Melody. Ash looked down, and blushed even deeper at their locked fingers. Misty however, didn’t seem to mind this as she only squeezed his hand a bit more before letting go reluctantly.

“No problem. I could tell you weren’t enjoying the situation,” said Misty, making sure not to keep eye contact with Ash’s soft chocolate eyes. If he did look at her, would he not see the hurt in her eyes? She faked a giggle in a desperate attempt to rid any lasting emotion that she still felt. “Your eyes looked like Brock’s when she was kissing you!”

“Oh, don’t remind me. I hated it.”

“Well,” started Misty, stopping in her tracks as she did so. She dared to look at Ash sincerely and he could detect the worry in her aquatic blue eyes. “If you hated it, then why didn’t you get yourself out of it?”

“I, err…” stammered Ash, not knowing exactly what to say. Why had he stayed there anyway? “I… I don’t know.” He answered truthfully. “I guess I was just confused,” he concluded finally, hoping that she wouldn’t detect exactly who his confusion was about.

Misty smiled at that, a small laugh escaping her lips. “About what? You’re sexuality?”

Ash smiled at the crude joke and followed Misty as she turned and strode away from him. He knew Melody and Misty didn’t see eye to eye. Why that was he’d never know. But I suppose letting Melody creep up on him like that wasn’t the smartest thing to do. And it certainly didn’t help towards solving his feelings towards Misty. If anything, it made him feel almost guilty.

The walk back to the drinks bar was a quiet one, Ash not knowing what to say. He still felt the tingle crawl up his arm from the brief but enjoyable lock of their hands. ‘What does this all mean?’ he thought as he watched Misty run ahead of him. He followed her movements and frowned when yet another man lifted her into the air. However, Ash recognised this tall auburn haired man as being none other than the Trovita Island Gym leader. ‘Great’, he thought as he watched them embrace in a tight hug. ‘Just great’.

The night had crept on, yet the Pallet Party in honour of the new Jhoto Master was still in full swing. But it was not the music or the temptation to dance that was flooding Misty’s mind. She sighed as she looked up at the cloudless sky. She had been enjoying herself tonight, until she had unexpectedly caught Ash with Melody. Maybe that situation had affected her more than what she would let on? When Ash first started dating, she had coped with it, hadn’t she? She remembered those lonely nights. Ash never returned until the early hours of the morning. What had he been up to? Misty closed her eyes, not wanting to know what could have gone on. She hoped to God that he wasn’t interested in Melody.

“Hey, what’s up?”

Misty’s eyes fluttered to her left to rest upon the blue haired girl lying next to her. “Nothing, just enjoying being off my feet,” she replied honestly, as she bounced her body slightly on the long and extended sofa bed that her and Duplica were sharing. It was mahogany coloured, fitting exquisitely with the boudoir theme that she had planned. Somewhere nice and comfy to lounge around was the idea, and looking round at all her friends, she could see that the idea was a success. Gary, Tracey and Ash shared a suite, including an oak table, which their feet were currently resting upon. Richie was on a love seat, his arms entwined around the blonde that he had met on the dance floor, whilst Rudy and Brock shared a smaller yet more refined sofa that could not profitably turn into a bed like the one Misty was lying on.

“Tell me about it!” smiled Duplica, wriggled her rested feet as she did so. “How the hell you got all this, Misty, amazes me!”

Ash over heard that particular statement and locked eyes with Misty, smiling broadly. Misty felt a blush creep to her face, and turned away from his staring eyes. Why she was blushing she did not know. Was it because Ash was finally paying her some attention? Misty focused her eyes on Duplica and gave her a smile showing her gratitude. She heard an unmistakable voice in mid conversation, and realised that Ash had returned his attention back to Tracey and Gary. She sighed again, her heart returning to her natural rhythm. Why did her heart always do that whenever he laid eyes on her? Once a restrained breath was released from her lips, she realised how dry they were and she urged for another drink. Moving her body to dangle her legs over the sofa bed, she turned to Duplica. “I’m gunna get a drink. Save the seat for me?”

Duplica nodded in response as Misty rose and made her way to the bar. A picture of Ash and Melody flashed through her mind, and she nearly stumbled from the shock. Shacking her head furiously to dissolve the image, she continued walking the short distance. It did not take her long to reach her destination and she smiled at the blond bar tender.

“Double vodka please,” she asked as nicely as possible, watching intently as the young males’ eyebrows rose.

“Only one?” he asked. Misty watched his eyes search hers, could he tell how desperate she felt? His voice was deeper than what Misty was expecting and she smiled at him. He was quiet good looking for a blond, considering that she was only interested in one member of the opposite sex. His golden locks nearly covered his sensual green eyes. It was at that point that she remembered, quiet innocently, that a particular friend of hers preferred blonds….

“Actually,” Misty started, an idea forming in her head, “Make it fifteen, please.” Misty could have laughed at the gob smacked façade the bar tender wore in response, but instead she explained to him as clearly as possible her intentions. “Five for my friend,” she pointed over to Duplica with one slender finger, a crude smile forming on her lips as she did so. “Five for me, and err…” she paused and licked her lips seductively. “Five for you.” God, how she missed flirting!

The bar tenders lips broke out into a bright smile as he watched the ultimately sexy woman in front of him call over her equally sexy friend. He poured the shots out as quickly as possible, eager to play the game set out for him. The second woman soon seated herself and flashed him a smile, not to mention a bit of thigh.

“My names Duplica,” she said in a tone that told him she was feeling the alcohol that he had served her all night.

“And mines Matt,” he said, placing the near empty vodka bottle back behind the counter. Misty smiled at the name before introducing herself, watching his gaze fall and rest upon Duplica and not her. Misty’s grin grew wider, glad that her plan to set up Duplica was working. ‘As long as my friends are happy’, she thought as she watched Duplica look Matt up and down teasingly, ‘Then I’ll survive.’

“So what’s the game?” Duplica asked, motioning to the five crystal shots in front of her.

Misty smiled and perched herself beside her tipsy friend. “There is no game,” she explained, “Just drink and go with it.”

“Trying to get yourself drunk, Misty?” asked Duplica, who still captivated Matt’s full gaze.

Misty turned her head in the direction of where their friends were seated. Her blue eyes rested upon Ash, who was smiling broadly and listening intently to Richie’s blonde, female friend. He was so close to gaining all the fame and fortune that being a Pokemon Master would entitle, and she was proud of him. He had come such a long way, and she guessed that was part of the reason why she loved him. His determination, his thirst to achieve would eventually get him what he wants from life. Not to mention all the female attention he could ever want. She sighed helplessly. How could she ever compare to that? Finding the shot glass, Misty brought it to her mouth and quickly downed the liquid. It burnt her throat and she closed her eyes to try and counteract its roughness. She slammed the empty shot glass on the wooden counter before replying a confident, “Yes”. Perhaps drowning her worries and self-pity wasn’t such a bad idea.

Duplica knew only too well to argue with Misty as she brought her own shot glass to her lips, slamming it down once its contents had been emptied. Matt did the same, followed quickly by another. The two girls laughed as they watched him gag at the burning sensation that the transparent poison created. They laughed even harder as they watched him look frantically for some water.

Duplica turned to Misty, eyes shimmering lightly from laughing so hard. She held in her hand another shot glass, motioning for Misty to pick up hers too. “Cheers to the day that women rule the earth!” she shouted, catching more than a few peoples attention. Misty released a giggle before repeating a little less loudly, “To the day women rule the earth!” With that, their glasses chinked before they were swiftly raised to their mouths and drowned, slamming the empty containers back down onto the table. This time however, neither of them winced at the liquor. Instead they proceeded to giggle together, forgetting their troubles and mishaps of life.

“Look at them! They’re hammered!” shouted Gary, as he watched the escapade a length or so away from where he sat amongst Ash, Tracey, Brock, Rudy and Richie. Together they watched as Misty tried desperately to pick Duplica up from the bar stool she had fallen from. Both were giggling their heads off, unaware of the commotion they had caused amongst the male assortment of friends. Rudy and Richie joined Gary’s hysterics after seeing the off-balenced redhead topple over her friend and land on the grassy floor. Brock and Tracey however, did not laugh, but only tutted at their immature approach to alcohol before returning to their conversation about which city Jenny was better looking.

Ash remained silent though as he gazed ruefully at Duplica and Misty. He didn’t utter a word, not even when both drunken girls managed to wager themselves to a standing position. Only when he noticed how much they had drunk did he speak.

“Someone’s gunna have to look after them guys. Look how much they’ve drunk,” he voiced, asking his friends to look at the counter. Following Ash’s gaze, his friends found that there was nearly twenty empty shot glasses scattered around a section of the unattended bar.

Ash then looked at Richie and smiled playfully. “And guess who’s giving a lift home to Duplica?”

In response, Richie sighed regretfully, hanging his head whilst doing so. “Can’t you take her in Ash?” he pleaded, using his best puppy-dog eyes to gain any sympathy from his friend “After all, you have a free house tonight.” There was no way that he wanted that girl to be sick in his new car. Any other option was better than that. Ash only smiled and laughed before replying, “I may be a generous guy Rich, but I’m not that generous!”

Richie’s head dropped down onto the table, as Ash’s had done earlier that night. He sighed loudly, only provoking his friends’ taunts.

She reached for a slender arm as she started to feel herself fall for the second time that night. Grasping onto what flesh she could, she managed to steady herself from the dizzy sensation that plagued her head. She laughed loudly at her own incompetence as she watched Misty drag her to the sofa bed that they had been on previously. When she took a seat, stretching herself out luxuriously, she closed her eyes.

“Budge over sweetheart,” Misty muttered as Duplica moved her lazy body to compensate for her friend to lie down. She noticed, without hesitation, that Misty did not seem all that affected by their little ‘game’.

“Mist, why’syou not drunk?” she uttered, not caring that she was slurring her words furiously. “I means, we’s had six shots each, and I’s hammered!”

That only stifled a laugh from Misty who turned over to face her intoxicated friend. “Who said I’m not?” she answered, raising one of her eyebrows, wavering it unknowingly. Duplica, not able to control her lucid emotions, laughed wildly.

“Hey, look over there!” exclaimed Misty and pointed towards the bar. Duplica rolled over to face the direction, and she immediately sprang up when she saw Matt heading towards them. Duplica felt her stomach lurch towards her throat, trying her best to smooth down her messy hair. She turned back round to Misty.

“Do I look alright?” she asked, concern and worry evident in her voice.

Misty only giggled slightly before kissing Duplica on the cheek. “You look gorgeous sweetheart,” she mused, as she watched Duplica’s grateful smile. “Now go get him,” she ordered, pushing her off the bed gently so that Duplica did not land on her rear end for the second time that night. Completely grateful to Misty for introducing her to such a hunk of a guy, Duplica smiled again before she slowly made her way towards Matt.

Misty watched from the lonely sofa bed as Matt became captivated by the woman in front of him. She ached longingly as Duplica placed her arms around the blond male and lead him towards the dance floor. If only she could be that happy with someone, to have someone completely transfixed by her. But, maybe those things could only exist in a soppy romance novel.

“Be careful!” shouted Misty, as she watched them disappear into the crowd. She sighed and she wrapped her arms around her body, feeling a little chilly from the night. Lying back down on the bed, she closed her eyes, wishing she could shake off this feeling she had towards Ash. She dared not to look over towards him, fear of finding him in another girls’ arms. ‘He’s a bloody pain’, she decided ruefully, disgusted with how much she had been thinking about him. She should be enjoying herself, not musing over a lost cause. She thought back to when he was with her earlier. Hadn’t he teased her beyond recognition? ‘Yes’, she mused, ‘ in a mental and physical sense’. She almost melted as she recalled tasting his breath on her lips before he pulled away from being so close to her. But thinking these things, thinking that he’d only been an inch or so away from kissing her was no good. She had been holding onto false hope for the last seven years! Maybe it was finally time to let go and face facts that however much she wanted it, dreamed of it, yarned for it, it would never happen. Let go of all the love and start a fresh life back in Cerulean. She could go out, she could meet new people. But would she have the guts to say goodbye? Maybe this was just the alcohol talking, but either way, she knew one thing. She needed some water before she died from dehydration.

Crawling over to the edge of the sofa bed, she swung her legs over. Placing her feet comfortably on the floor, she rose to a standing position and began the difficult journey over to the bar. Her feet wobbled slightly, but as she took her first stride without falling over, she smiled to herself and began to quicken her pace. ‘That was a big mistake’ she thought, feeling her head swing round with nausea. She placed a hand to her forehead in an attempt to stop the sickening motion, when she saw two eyes in front of her. Not just any eyes, she noticed quickly, but Ash’s soft amber eyes. More sensations followed, as she realised he was holding onto her arm. With logic, Misty placed her hands on her hips, finally understanding that he had twirled her round to face him.

“Hey! Don’t do that again,” she moaned, pouting to add emphasis. “You made me go all dizzy!”

Ash only laughed before guiding her back onto the sofa bed. “Well I guess asking you for a dance is out of the question then, eh?”

Misty’s answer was to groan rather loudly, before plummeting back onto the bed. Her hands flew up to her head, noticing for the first time that she had probably drunk too much. However, this predicament seemed to be hilarious to Ash, Misty noticed with a grudge, as he dangled his pint glass in front of her eyes.

“No more!” she squealed, forming an image of a crucifix with her fingers, warning the poisonous liquid away from her with closed eyes. Ash stifled another laugh, but submitted to place the pint glass on the floor.

“You can open your eyes now Mist,” said Ash, hovering above her, waiting patiently.

Misty did as she was commanded, and smiled to see that he had returned to his previous position on the bed, without the glass in his hand. Then a blush crept up Misty’s face as she realised exactly what they were laying on. The bed, softened under their weight. Misty could feel Ash’s body brush against her own, leaving a lingering but most pleasant sensation. As she looked up at him, he seemed to notice this too, looking down to the point that they had made contact. If he moved any closer, he would positively be pinning her to the bed! God, she was under his spell again. Refusing to let her body give into the wild temptations that plagued her mind, she pushed passed Ash and stood up.

“I need some water.”

It was a mumble, almost inaudible to Ash as he watched her stride off, remembering how flushed her face had been. God, he didn’t mean for that to happen. The last thing he wanted to do was scare her away from him. All he wanted to do was ask her to dance, but somehow, his plans had changed without consciousness and they had ended up almost missionary on the overly furnished sofa bed. Did he mind? Truthfully, no, he had no objection. It seemed inevitable really, noticing the strong attraction between them. He finally realised this, and kicked himself mentally for not noticing it sooner. His friends had been right. Whether or not it was love he was feeling, he was still unsure. But there was an attraction, a very strong one. And, looking back over the last few years, he supposed it had always been there, but he was just too naïve to perceive it. Ash glanced down to his side and bit his lip, trying to shake off the feeling of Misty’s ever present but very brief touch. Glancing back up and seeing her graceful body move in his direction, he resolved that it would be safer, for both of them, to continue their acquaintance at somewhere other than a bed.

Careful not to spill the glass in her delicate hand, Ash guided her to the table and chairs he had been at previously, when he watched her dance. Misty smiled somewhat thankfully as she took the seat next to him, placing her own glass of water on the round table. Her smile was too grateful and Ash took that as a bad omen. Had he done too much too soon? But then Brock’s words ran into his head, chanting, as if to remind him of what his heart desired. ‘You shouldn’t pass up a good opportunity…’

“Are you enjoying your night Mist?” he asked, daring to break the silence between them.

“I shouldn’t be the one answering that question,” she replied, turning her head from the on looking dance floor to his face. “This party was for you, not me.”

“And I still can’t believe you did this,” he answered, still at a wonder why Misty would do this for him. His Mom, sure, he could believe if she organised it. But Misty? The girl that made the first part of his journey a living nightmare? He chuckled at that, drawing Misty’s attention even more.

“What?” she asked, probing for the reason why his features had suddenly creased into a broad smile.

“Nothing,” he began, “Just thinking about the first year we travelled together.”

“Thinking about the adventures, or the fact that you still owe me a bike, Ash Ketchum?” said Misty, knowing that she would start to get him agitated.

“Yeah, yeah I know Mist. God,” he exasperated, bringing his pint glass up to his mouth and drowning the liquid. “You’ve been asking for that bloody thing for eight years!”

Misty, unlike her younger teenaged self, kept her voice under control. “Yes, Ash, and even after those eight years I still have not seen a penny!” It wasn’t like she was picking for a fight like she did years ago, but she had finally decided it was time for a little pay back. He shouldn’t have teased her so much earlier.

It was just like old times. Ash felt his blood start to boil from frustration. Hadn’t she worked out the reason why he didn’t pay her back her stupid bike? But Ash’s annoyance soon died down as he saw the red headed goddess grow a playful smile on her lips. He cursed silently at himself, knowing that he was just being teased. But hold on a minute, what was that about her bike? Ash retraced his thoughts. Although he had matured a hell of a lot since he was a kid, some of his ‘denseness’ (as Misty liked to call it) still remained. Why didn’t he give her back her bike? He had enough money to repay her plenty of times.

“What’s wrong?”

He heard Misty’s voice disturb his thoughts. He looked at her, watched her eyes coat over with compassion and concern. “Sorry I never gave you back your bike Mist,” her told her earnestly.

Misty smiled slightly and, without thinking, she placed an extended hand upon his shoulder. Was that what was worrying him? Why he seemed to be in such deep thought? God, she hadn’t meant to make him feel guilty with that joke.

“Hey, it never really mattered to me anyway. Honest,” she said calmly, not knowing how much her voice soothed Ash. Not to mention another brief encounter with her electrifying touch. Again, he was disappointed when she moved her hand away from him.

“Then why did you rant on about it all this time?” He didn’t like the way the conversation had turned serious, but even though they had become closer as friends, this subject had never been discussed.

“I didn’t rant on about it!” she exclaimed, wanting to place her hands on her hips, but failing to do so because she was sitting down. “Anyway,” she started again, trying to calm herself down, “If you found me so annoying, why didn’t you just pay me back and be done with it?”

Ash sighed, not too sure if he should tell her the truth that he feared she would leave him if he did pay her back. “I didn’t find you annoying Mist.” Well, it wasn’t the whole truth. But at least that answer would satisfy her.

Misty smiled, “I know that Ash.” She reached for the glass in front of her and quenched her drying mouth before continuing what she was saying. “Well, I knew that you didn’t find me annoying. We’re best friends aren’t we?”

That provoked him to look at her. Best friends? Sure, of course they were. But was that it? Was that all she thought of him? He wanted to ask her that, but found that the words would not form into speech. Maybe he was a fool to even think that Misty was even attracted to him. After all, they were just best friends, right? “Sure,” he answered, turning away from her in hope to conceal his true thoughts.

“Just make sure you remember me when you win Indigo, Mr. Pokemon Master,” she said, poking him in the chest with one long slender finger teasingly.

Now that inclined a laugh from Ash, and Misty was pleased to see him smile again, even though the action made her stomach flip. His eyes seemed to glimmer and she felt as if she was going to melt all over again.

Ash tried his hardest to calm down his laughter. “Hold on,” he said, in between catching his breath. “You think I’m gunna win Indigo? Fulfil my dream to become a Pokemon Master?” His eyes were sceptical, an eyebrow arched in question and disbelief.

“Ash,” started Misty, looking at him honestly, captivating his eyes for a few short moments. She edged a bit closer to him, and Ash held his breath. He watched her in awe, as a smile formed her playful, and rather tempting, lips. “You’re so bloody arrogant that I’d feel sorry anyone who dares to stand in your way!”

She pulled away quickly, not noticing why she had pulled towards him in the first place. Was it the alcohol that was still in her system? She watched as he looked down, still showing that dazzling smile of his. He seemed to fiddle with something on his lap before looking back up at her. “But I’ll be beaten,” he said, eyes not drifting away from hers. “By Misty Waterflower, the Elite Four Mistress of Water.”

Now it was her turn to laugh. Even though it was her dream to be a Water Mistress, she still wouldn’t be able to beat Ash. But then, her smile faded as quickly as it had started. Ash noticed this and became concerned, asking her what was wrong. Misty smiled as she turned to him and he saw her eyes glazed over with shining tears. Ash panicked, had he said something wrong? He grasped onto her slender arm, willing her to speak. She fought back the tears that threatened to pour. Why she was suddenly this emotional, she could only blame on the alcohol. If only she blame something for her slacking…

Misty turned to Ash, his hand gliding across her skin comfortingly. “I could never get that far Ash.”

She was sincere, he could tell through her voice. Did she really think that? “Of course you can Mist,” he reassured her. But her only response was the shake of her head, her long hair falling over her face. “What makes you think you can’t?”

She kept her eyes on the dance floor in front of her. She dared not to look into his eyes. If she did, she knew she’d end up in his arms and probably ruin his night, even though, that was what she secretly wanted. She blinked hard, and forced back the wetness in her eyes. Ash saw her face stiffen as he recalled only once had he seen her like this before. Two years ago, whilst travelling through Jhoto, they had met a beggar; his clothes were torn and tattered. After paying for lunch to fill his empty stomach, they had learned that Sean was on the streets because of a gambling problem. They had tried to help him, but after spending the money that they had offered him on Roulette, they lost hope of being able to change him. Ash, Brock and Misty had stayed in that town overnight, and was horrified to learn that a bank down the street from where they were staying had been robbed. The screeching sirens of the police had woken them, but what they did not expect to find when they arrived at the bank was Sean, arrested and sentenced with the treason of theft. Ash was asked to appear in court, to help convict Sean of the robbery. But he found it extremely difficult to turn him in, let the police know of his gambling addiction, especially when he learned that Sean’s last name was Waterflower.

“Is this about your father Misty?” he asked, hoping she would finally let him know what was troubling her.

“My father is a no good gambling buff,” she said, with almost not emotion. “Blinded by what’s right and wrong. I guess that’s were I get my failure from.”

Failure? What was she talking about? “You’re not a failure Misty,” he replied genuinely, resting his hand on hers bravely. “I’ve never known you to fail at anything. Not for the near decade that I’ve known you.”

“And in those eight years” she started aggressively, turning to him as she spat the words out. “Have I ever achieved anything?”

Ash paused before he answered. He knew where this was going. She was talking about her life, and the eight years she had spent with him. “Friends, Mist. We’ve meet so many people…”

“I meant about my dream Ash,” she stated, cutting him off from finishing his sentence. He watched as her head turned again to the dance floor. Her face seemed to falter when she saw their friends dancing to their hearts content.

“You won those fishing competitions…” he started, but was met with an aggravated sigh.

“Fishing competitions won’t help me. Not with my reputation anyway,” she said as she slumped down in her chair. “You above all people must know what it means to earn a reputation. To be known widely for your abilities, your strengths…” Her voice trailed off. Ash could understand that what she was telling him was hard for her. She had always been proud of herself, always wanted to take on the world at a moments glance. But for her to face reality like this… he could see her composure weakening. He squeezed her hand reassuringly, knowing that she wasn’t quiet finished yet. He urged her to go on, letting her know that he was here for her. ‘I’ll always be here for her,’ Ash thought, feeling so much concern for her that it overwhelmed him.

“I have been travelling with you for so long Ash. Not a moment I regret. Seeing the world, having so many adventures and opportunities has been a once in a life time chance for me,” she looked at him then, and she saw his amber eyes shine with compassion. “I thought about how much experience I have gained, and I am thankful for that. But when I look at my friends…”

Misty glanced at the dance floor once again. Ash followed her gaze as she continued. “All of you have come so far. Tracey is only a few months away from opening his own research centre, something he has wanted to do for so long. To study and watch pokemon has been his dream. Brock is well known for his breeding, travelling around the world with you to gain more trust and respect. He hardly needs to learn anymore. He’s always been so wise…”

She reached for her glass again, and downed the rest of the liquid with a shaking hand. Ash did not doubt for a second that what Misty was telling him had been lodged deep down inside her for a long time now.

“Gary is a well known pokemon trainer, expected to perform well at Indigo next year, as with Richie. Duplica has her own imitation show on tour around Kanto and Jhoto. You’re the Jhoto Master, not to mention the Orange Island champ… Rudy’s getting married…”

“Married?!” Ash managed to squeak out, surprised that it hadn’t been brought up in conversation before. “Since when?” he asked, not believing the story one bit.

“I knew about it a few months ago. He came to the gym, with his fiancé,” said Misty, a small smile forming on her face at the remembrance. His choice of wife had been a small little thing, but was beautiful beyond all right. Very suitable for the gym leader of Trovita Island.

Ash couldn’t believe it, but he supposed that the prospect of marriage was drawing closer and closer for all of his friends. Especially Tracey and Brock. After all, they were both in their early twenties and once they had settled down into their respective careers, he supposed that matrimony was inevitable (Especially for Brock, IF he could find a girl that didn’t reject him). Hell, even he hoped to settle down one day. But that day was a long way off into the future. Ash turned to look at Misty once again, taking in her form and undeniable beauty. His hand was still locked together with hers, and he could feel the sensual electricity running up his arm. Was this what it would be like to touch her all the time? Have this wonderful surge of new energy and captivations fill his body? He dismissed the thought, somewhat reluctantly, as he watched Misty sigh heavily.

The silence between them had grown, and Misty desperately wanted to finish what she was trying to say, but found that the energy to do so was dissipating. What was the point anyway? Getting this off her chest would not change the situation. And loading it onto Ash would only create more problems between them. She couldn’t help but feel as if she was getting no where in life, that everything she had done, had experienced, was for nothing. She broke the contact between them as she stood up quickly. Her head moved down to face Ash, but her eyes looked wearily away from him.

“Sorry,” she murmured, sincerity detectable in her voice once again. “I didn’t mean to load this on you.”

Ash stood too, and Misty had to adjust herself to compensate for the height difference. Ash was a good 6ft tall now, and Misty cursed herself for letting her eyes drift across his lean frame. Ash only looked down at her, with those ever so caring eyes. Misty felt her legs begin to lose their restrain as their eyes locked. “You should never be sorry for telling me what’s wrong Misty”, she heard him say, his voice low. “I want to help you accomplish your dream.”

He was genuinely honest, Misty could understand. But how on earth could he help her? Life, it seemed, has chosen different paths for them to take. In the year leading up to the next Indigo League Competition, Ash would be so busy training that he wouldn’t even have time to call her, let alone help her. Whilst she, the runt of the Cerulean Sensational Sisters, dwelled at the gym, alone. Well, at least for a few months anyway. Her sisters were not due back from their exclusive ‘around the world’ tour until Christmas. And when they were back, they would only load even more housework upon her than what she was already doing. Not to mention the new show that they had in mind for her to perform!

She sighed helplessly, “I don’t think you can help me Ash.”

Ash frowned. What was she talking about? Of course he could help her. But before he could tell her that, she had already gone from his sight. He felt a small kick in his gut, and he noticed with a pang of realisation, that he would actually do anything for her. God, he would even quit entering the Indigo League if it meant he could help her somehow. He looked frantically around, trying to spot where she had disappeared to. Watching the crowds nervously, he finally spotted a streak of orange hair caught by the wind. His vision was then filled with the colour as he saw her make her way into his house. He was just about to run after her, when a firm hand caught his shoulder.

Ash span round quickly. He hoped he could get rid of whoever wanted to get his attention so that he could catch Misty, but when his eyes came to rest on Rudy, Ash stood his ground.

“Don’t go after her,” he said, looking firmly into Ash’s eyes. “Not until you know how you feel.”

Ash stared blankly at Rudy. Since when did he have a concern about his feelings? He certainly hadn’t back on Trovita Island, asking Misty to spend her life with him. But he sighed, realising that things were a lot different now from what they were then. Ash remembered on that thought what Misty had told him not too long ago.

“Congratulations on your engagement,” Ash uttered, turning his head briefly to see if Misty was still there. He noticed with disappointment that she wasn’t.

Rudy, who was now the same height as Ash, smiled. “Don’t change the subject Ash. But thanks anyway.”

Ash smiled, surprised to how pleasant Rudy seemed. It seems that both of them had changed a great deal since their childhood years. But the smile faded as Ash regained the subject at hand. “There’s nothing to talk about Rudy.” He began to turn away in the direction of his house, but Rudy stopped him again. He turned back round to face him, a little flustered now that this man would not let him go.

“Yes there is. And you know it.”

His voice was stern. If it wasn’t, Ash would have told him to stay out of his business. But the underlay of the tone he used told Ash that Rudy actually cared about Misty. And because of this, Ash stayed put. Hr shifted on his feet though, feeling uncomfortable with the fact of having to explain the situation to Rudy. They had never been friends exactly, only acquaintances. He was about to open his mouth and explain everything, but a raised hand stopped him.

“Save me the chit chat,” he said ruefully, replacing his hand back down to rest at his side. “I already know your situation, thanks to the bubbly drunkette over there.” His hand pointed behind him and Ash looked passed to see Duplica, still drunk as ever, giggling on the floor with the blond bar tender trying to give her helping hand up. Ash wanted to smile, but was stopped when Rudy spoke again.

“Look Ash, you have to tell her tonight.”

“Tell her what?” he asked, confused to what he was trying to discuss.

Rudy only sighed, not expecting Ash to still be this dense. ‘I guess things never change’ he thought as he continued to watch Ash’s blank expression. He wanted to get this talk over and done with. The party would be finishing soon, and he still had lots of mingling to do. Inviting people to a wedding wasn’t an easy thing to do.

“Don’t tell me you still don’t feel anything for her?” Rudy asked. It was more a statement rather than a question.

“Of course I do!” Ash almost shouted, exasperated at the thought. “She just ran off upset. I was going to go after her until you showed up!” Ash bit his tongue at the spitefulness of his tone. He never realised Misty could affect him this much.

“And what are you going to do about it?” Rudy asked, his eyebrow arched in question, prompting Ash to think about his options.

Ash paused for a moment. What could he do to help her? He tried consoling her but it seemed that he couldn’t get through to her. What else could he do? His heart leaped at the thought of consoling her in a different way, but the thought was dismissed. Hitting on Misty would only make it even worse. He wanted desperately to help her. After another pause, he finally answered Rudy’s question. “I don’t know. But I know I’d do anything to help her.”

Rudy smiled at the statement, glad that Ash was finally showing some signs of loving his redheaded best friend. His eyes showed determination, the same determination that he held years ago, when facing him for the gym’s badge. The determination that said that he would achieve his goal, against all odds.

“You could start off by telling her that.”

Ash looked on a little perplexed. Tell her his feelings? Tell her that he might be falling in love with her? Surely doing that would be suicidal, rejection being his biggest fear. But maybe he was right, maybe that was what Misty needed right now. Not a friend, but someone to let her know they cared. Ash smiled and stiffly put out his hand to Rudy. “Thanks,” he said, his words loosening their stiffness. “Thanks for the advice.”

Rudy gladly accepted the hand that Ash offered, the first sigh that they just might be able to become friends. “Hey no problem. If anything, I’m doing it for her sake.”

Ash reformed his blank stare at the new information and placed his hand back to his side. “What do you mean?”

He watched as the Trovita Island Gym Leader closed his eyes and looked down. “You need her Ash. It’s as simple as that.” His voice was quiet, but Ash was able to pick up every word. Looking back up and opening his eyes, Rudy faced Ash one last time before turning around and making his exit from the brief conversation. Ash turned around in the direction of the house in slight disbelief. He was sure he heard Rudy mutter, “And she needs you.”

The balcony over-looked the slowly filtering party and a thin but sensual onlooker leaned on the rails and observed. But her aquatic blue eyes weren’t focused on the crowd of people obviously enjoying themselves. Instead, she was focused on two silhouettes below her that were somewhat closer to the house than the other members. She watched voyeuristically, observing their every move. One silhouette faced her; a tint of auburn hair was detectable. The other had his back to her, body and hair covered in black. She had no doubt in matching an identity to both figures, but what they were talking about was another mystery. Neither of them took threatening advances, and Misty heaved a sigh of relief that they were able to have a mutual conversation.

However, her breath was heavily inhaled again as she saw Ash stride away from Rudy and enter his house. He was looking for her. God, she could hear his footsteps climbing up the stairs. She had a few minutes until he would find her in his mother’s bedroom, but what could she do? Hiding wasn’t an option, and the idea of facing him… those determined brown eyes of his would only bore into her soul. Instead, Misty only straightened herself and hardened her body in preparation for his arrival. She didn’t want him to break down her defences like he always did. She’d end up like a blabbering baby if he did. Most of all, it wasn’t fair on him. He didn’t deserve to be loaded with her self-pity. The same self-pity that had been eating her away, ever since she left him those many, long and tedious months ago.

A hand on her arm caused her to turn round suddenly. Her eyes faced his, and an immeasurable amount of compassion could be seen. He said nothing, and only opened up his arms for her to lean into. She accepted willingly, taking the deciding step that would seal his embrace. Once his strong and protective arms were around her, Misty leant into his shoulder and closed her eyes, wishing for the embrace to be never ending. Ash only held her tighter, letting her know with actions instead of words that he was always there for her. But soon, Ash’s compassion turned into desire as that same sensual electrical pulse ran all over his body. Ash pulled away from the embrace to look into her eyes, his arms still firmly locked around her slim waist.

“I’m sorry,” whispered Misty, daring to look up into Ash’s eyes. He smiled down at her, giving her a reassuring squeeze.

“Hey,” he started, as softly as she had spoken. “What did I tell you? About not being sorry?”

Misty’s eyes darted away from his and she broke their lingering embrace. She returned back through the glass balcony doors and wondered into the spacious bedroom. A long pine dressing table lay opposite the queen-sized bed, and Misty gently sat on the long pale white duvet, a sigh escaping her mouth as she felt herself sink into the material. She had always loved Mrs.Ketchum’s room, which was dramatically complimented by the balcony and en-suite bathroom.

“I know,” she said, returning to the situation at hand. “But I can’t help but feel guilty for loading my problems on you.” She paused, looking back at Ash to see his back facing her. She took a sharp intake of breath. Maybe this was going to be harder then she thought. “Especially tonight,” she concluded. “You should be celebrating, not looking after a moping friend.”

Ash, who was temporarily stunned by how cold it had become when Misty had left his arms, turned to face her.. “I’m the Jhoto Champ. That will not change until I lose my title. I have plenty of time to celebrate. But helping you, when you need someone, that cannot wait.”

His only reply was for Misty to return her gaze to the floor. In order to get her attention, he closed the somewhat lonely distance between them, taking the space on the bed next to her. They sat in silence for a bit, until Misty spoke.

“I guess it just feel as if all these years of travelling, exploring and adventuring hasn’t got me any closer to becoming a Water Pokemon Mistress.”

“But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t anytime left for you to still accomplish your dream.”

Misty looked up from the floor and into Ash’s eyes. He smiled slightly, and she could feel the barriers she had prepared for this encounter slowly dissolving. “I know you can do it Misty. I don’t know anyone who isn’t as determined as you are.”

“Oh I do,” she started, captivating Ash with a sly grin. “I haven’t saved the world three times.”

Ash looked down guiltily before smiling broadly. “Actually, its four,” he paused, as he watched Misty’s mouth hang open in surprise. “But who’s counting?”

Misty shut her mouth abruptly, her smile returning at the small joke. She was going to ask what happened, but after reliving the experience with Mewtwo, The Legendaries and Entei, she figured that it was not her place. Ash dying once was enough for her to cope with. Her eyes remained focused and with the thought of losing him, she felt a desperate need to kiss him. “Well,” she said, trying to dismiss the desired thought from her mind. “I’m glad you’re here, and you’re safe.”

Ash smiled intently at her before replying. “So am I.”

Ash knew there was much more feeling behind those words then what Misty would perceive them to be. But before he could even react on his feelings for her, a male voice filled the air.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the night is now coming to an end. But before you leave, please share with us this one last dance, dedicated to Ash Ketchum for his triumph today.”

The voice trailed off into silence, before a familiar tune filled the air. Ash turned to Misty and smiled, recognising the song from a dance they had shared together at the Maiden’s Peak Festival. He watched as a small blush crept to Misty’s cheeks. She’d completely forgot that she had specifically requested this song to be played at the end of the evening. She didn’t know that the night had gone by so quickly. But before she knew it, Ash had pulled her up off the bed and was leading her onto the balcony. There, he pulled her to him and began to move slowly to the rhythm. Misty smiled, and wrapped her arms around his neck and followed his movements. His head came to rest by her ear, his breath hot against her skin.

“Thank you for tonight Mist,” he whispered, holding her ever so slightly closer.

“Like I said earlier,” she whispered, “You deserve it.”

Although Misty could not see it, Ash smiled broadly. He never knew Misty could do such a thing for him. Especially since he hadn’t seen her for a while. But now that he was back in her company, he finally realised something. It had always been there between them, but had only been perceived on this night. Holding Misty close, the way he was now, even being with her again gave him more pleasure then anything else. Whilst moving his head back to rest against her forehead, Ash caught the scent of her hair. It nostalgically placed him back to when he was younger, travelling around Kanto. He remembered waking up and smelling the same aroma, his eyes opening to watch Misty brush her hair countless numbers of times. Back then it was short, only falling around her shoulders. Now though, it hung delicately down her back in a similar way to a cascading waterfall.

He loved her hair, he realised that now. In fact, he was guessing that he was in love with her. How could this constant feeling of desire and protection be anything else? His head rest against hers, their breaths mingling. The sensation flowing onto their lips were beyond tempting, beyond desirable. But for the moment, there were only them, the music and the crisp night air that only made Misty lean even closer into Ash’s chest.

“Misty”

It was a whisper, and it brought her eyes up to meet his. His eyes were half closed, but that shining amber glow could still be detectable. For the third time that night, she was completely under his spell. And, for the second time that night, he was only inches away from kissing her. If she just tilted her head up slightly, their mouths would have been locked. But she shied away from the temptation. He was going to tell her how beautiful she was, how she could heat a man’s blood within an instant. But the words never escaped from his lips. Instead, he found his head start to tilt down until there was a pleasurable feeling upon his mouth. Craving for more, Ash pulled Misty into an even deeper kiss. He was surprised when she did not object, and only kissed him with as much passion as he was feeling.

He couldn’t get enough of her. The aroma she possessed, the passion, the softness of her skin… it was all so heavenly. The fever they shared intensified as they slowly crept back into the bedroom, mouths and bodies still locked together. Misty’s senses were too clouded to realise how close she was to the bed. With a gasp of surprise, her feet came into contact with the wooden furnishings and sent her and Ash toppling onto the bed. He landed on her with a bit of a thud, causing him to break into a broad smile, encouraging a laugh from Misty. But all jokes dissipated as Ash’s mouth returned to where it had been, slowly creeping down to Misty’s neck.

The heat they both felt soon intensified again as they removed their clothes slowly. They were thrown in no particular direction, and it seemed that they almost decorated the bedroom. But that was the last thing that was on their minds. The only thing left for them was eliminating the longing they had secretly been hiding from each other and expressing it in the most primitive and pleasurable way possible.

Ash opened his eyes to the blinding sun rising across the fields of Pallet. He tried to block it out with use of his hand, but found that the light was too strong. Instead, he turned over in the lush bed, only to find the beautiful and rather naked redhead lying next to him. He smiled intently at the sight, memories of last night flooding through him. They had made love for what seemed like hours, exploring every detail, loving every inch. Saving her modesty, he brought the duvet closer up to her face, covering her exposed breasts. She was laying on her side, facing him, a content smile on her slightly flustered face. Oblivious to the breaking morning, Ash wrapped his arms around the girl, stroking her face with a free hand.

Last night was amazing, not just because of what they had experienced together, but also because of what he had discovered. He loved her, more than anything. It took him a while to realise this and on a normal occasion, he would have dismissed the thought of love immediately. But once he was with her, holding her, touching her, there was no doubt in his mind. It didn’t even matter if the feeling was not mutual, because he would rather live his life and know of his love, then never to have experienced it at all. But then, there was a tug at his heart as he thought of the events previous to last night. She had been drunk, very drunk. He was sure that she had been fairly sober by the point of their love making, but what if she hadn’t? What if she woke up and accused him of taking advantage of her? Ash’s body stiffened at the thought, but his mind told him to trust his instincts. He would never have taken advantage of her. Hell he couldn’t have even brought himself to argue with her anymore. She just meant too much too him.

“I love you,” he whispered, his face nuzzled against hers whilst she slept. Actually, he was surprised how easily he managed to form the words, but that was more than likely because he knew she wouldn’t have heard them.

A stir brought him out of his thoughts as he watched Misty’s eyes open delicately, her blue iris’s shining more intently then what he had seen before. Her sight slowly focused as she saw blurry images merge into a handsome and very familiar figure. He was smiling down at her, and she returned it somewhat lazily; sleep still overcoming her.

“Morning,” beamed Ash, removing a bit of sleep from her eye.

“Hmm…” she replied, rolling closer to him to lean on his bare chest and close her eyes again. “That was some night eh?” she asked, her voice groggy from waking from a deep and relaxed sleep.

“Oh yeah,” replied Ash, letting his arms come round her naked frame once again. The left side of his mouth quivered into a sly grin. “The sex wasn’t all that bad too.”

It was a risk to say, but Misty reacted just the way he wanted her too. She rose up from his chest, a pout forming on her angelic face and her slender hands came to rest upon her hips. “Hey!” she exclaimed, poking him in the ribs as she did so. “That’s not what you said last night!”

Ash watched as her face blushed crimson. She was obviously flustered from his remark. But in return, he only smiled at her, a goofy grin on his face. Misty was about to ask him what was so funny when she saw his eyes dart from her face to her chest. Realising the ‘display’ he had tricked her into giving him, she blushed furiously and started to retreat for the bathroom, arms crossed tightly and protectively over her chest. But before she could even reach the end of the bed, Ash’s arms were around her, his body pressed against her own. His lips found her neck, and Misty closed her eyes, mentally kicking herself for how easily she could be distracted.

“Don’t leave,” he begged into her ear, making a shuddered course through her body.

He watched as she turned around over so slowly, a playful smile on her lips. She reached up and kissed him, joining their bodies in remembrance of last night. But as quick as she did that, she pulled away and leapt off the bed, not bothering with discarded sheet to cover herself up. When she entered the bathroom, Ash thought that he had offended her and his heart twitched at the thought. But when he saw her head pop round from the en-suite and smile, his hopes lifted. Maybe he hadn’t offended her after all.

“I need a shower,” she said, her voice now free of the grogginess it had earlier. “Will that be a problem?”

“Uh no,” Ash answered, a bit disappointed and confused. “Go ahead.”

He watched her smile and go back into the en-suite. He heard her turn on the shower, saw the steam rise out from the open door as the water started to warm. He was hoping that she would have stayed, have a repeat of their actions last night. But maybe it just wasn’t meant to be. As he was about to get out of bed and get dressed, he saw Misty come back into the bedroom, her body still uncovered and striding towards him. She reached for him again, just as she had earlier and kissed him fiercely. The kiss wasn’t broken as easily this time, and he felt her trace the outline of his face with a slender finger.

“Oh by the way,” she said, still lingering dangerously close to his deprived lips. “I love you too.”

Ash’s eyes shot open. She heard him? And she loved him? He smiled and was going to lean in for another kiss when she escaped his opening embrace. Turning around he watched her amble over to the bathroom, giving him a sexy and ever so sly wink before she entered. His smile broadened.

“Hey Mist,” he called after her, watching her stop in her tracks before she entered the hot and steamy running water. “Is there room for another in that shower?”

She turned to face him and watched as his eyes glaze over with amber, the same colour they had been last night at the midst of their passion. Her smiles matched his as he watched her open the shower door and enter it, leaving it open for himself.

“I’m sure we can find a way Ash,” she drooled, as his tall, lean frame climbed in after her.

Well, I think it’s finished. Hell that took me longer than I thought it would! Anyway, I enjoyed writing that so much that I might do a sequel to it. Let me know if you think I should, your opinion always counts! Love Silver Angel! xxxx