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Pokémon: Starry-Eyed at Café Ketchum

Chapter 7: A Christmas at Café Ketchum

Notes:

Merry Christmas everyone!!! I wanted to post this yesterday but god I just did not have time 😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫

I hope you enjoy!!!

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Brock always marveled at Ash’s speed.

 

Even as an eager ten-year-old ready to face the world, Ash had always been in a hurry, never seeming to have enough time for anything.

 

Now, even after settling down, Brock was pleased to see that Ash hadn’t lost that energy. In just one day, Ash had managed to transform the café into a Winter Wonderland.

 

Standing just inside Café Ketchum’s front door, a warm smile spread across Brock’s face as he took in the scene. What was usually a cozy, inviting café now brimmed with holiday magic. Strings of fairy lights twinkled like tiny stars across the ceiling, casting a golden glow over the bustling room. A garland of pine, decked with bright red ribbons and jingling bells, curled along the counter and wrapped neatly around the columns.

 

The centerpiece of it all was the tree. It stood tall near the café’s corner - nearly brushing the ceiling - ornamented with handcrafted Poké Ball baubles, shimmering tinsel, and even a few subtle trinkets shaped like Pikachu’s ears. At the very top perched a golden star, its edges glowing faintly from Clemont's “adjustments.” Brock chuckled, recalling how the invention-savvy Lumiose Gym Leader had turned an ordinary star into a solar-powered beacon, one that pulsed gently whenever someone placed an order. Clemont called it “festive functionalism.”

 

Speaking of the inventor…

 

The “Clemontic TV,” Ash’s newest treasure from last week, was now mounted proudly on the wall. Instead of displaying the regular menu, the device cycled through an animated fireplace - warmth and crackling sound effects included - with items of food and drink every so often floating from the hearth. Occasionally, festive jingles played, accompanied by Pokémon like Jigglypuff and Chimecho dancing across the screen in cute, seasonal animations. It shouldn’t have fit in a rustic café like this, but somehow - just somehow - Ash made it work. 

 

It was classic Ash: unexpected, a little over-the-top, but full of heart.

 

The smell of fresh-baked cookies and mulled cider wafted through the air, making Brock’s stomach growl. He turned toward the counter, where Ash stood at the helm, his usual cap replaced by a ridiculous red Santa hat and an even goofier grin. Pikachu sat perched on his shoulder, sporting a little green scarf.

 

“Brock!” Ash called, waving him over. His hands were covered in flour, and upon closer examination, Pikachu looked just as messy. “You’re late! I was about to put you on dish duty.” 

 

“I was too busy admiring your genius décor,” Brock chuckled, shaking his head as he approached. He paused as laughter erupted from the back kitchen, followed by the unmistakable sound of someone shouting about an oven timer. “Did you do all this yourself, or did you have elves hiding in the back?”

 

Ash grinned, ducking as a towel came flying through the kitchen window. “Yeah, they’re a bunch of high schoolers who’ve been helping out during their breaks. It’s been great - more hands, more chaos!”

 

“High schoolers?” Brock echoed, amused. “Since when did you become a mentor?”

 

Ash shrugged, clearly proud despite his nonchalance. “Since they decided I was cool enough to hang out with. They help out, they get a paycheck, and everyone gets free cookies. It’s a win-win!”

 

Pika!” Pikachu added in agreement, swiping at a dollop of frosting on Ash’s sleeve.

 

Brock laughed and leaned against the counter just as a figure emerged from the back. Kiawe, as Brock guessed from his nametag, rolled up his sleeves and furrowed his brow in intense focus, carrying out a tray of cookies like he was handling precious cargo. “Ash, second batch is done! No burns this time.”

 

“Nice work, Kiawe!” Ash called back.

 

Behind him, a green haired girl popped her head through the kitchen window, grinning ear to ear. “And we didn’t even set off the smoke alarm! Progress!”

 

The chaos didn’t stop there. Sophocles sat at a table, frowning as he tried to scrape blue frosting off his fingers while Lana, perfectly composed, piped intricate details onto a gingerbread house. Lillie bustled past with a tray of steaming hot chocolate mugs, her movements graceful despite the whirlwind of energy swirling around her.

 

“Okay, team!” Ash said, clapping his hands together as he turned back to the group. “Cookies are out, cocoa is ready, and Pikachu says we need a taste test.”

 

“Pika-pi!” Pikachu chirped eagerly, leaping off Ash’s shoulder to claim the nearest cookie.

 

Brock watched the scene unfold, a smile tugging at his lips. Ash stood at the center of it all, moving between tasks with the same confidence he’d shown as a Pokémon Trainer - only now, instead of gym battles or tournaments, he was leading a group of eager teenagers in the art of holiday cheer. 

 

And somehow, it fit him perfectly.

 

“You know,” Brock said, accepting a steaming mug of cocoa as Ash handed it to him, “you’re good at this.”

 

Ash tilted his head. “Good at what?”

 

Brock gestured vaguely at the café, the kids, the tree that glittered in the corner. “This. All of it. It’s all so… special.”

 

Ash scratched the back of his head, grinning sheepishly. “It’s nothing fancy. I just like seeing everyone happy, y’know? It’s fun.”

 

Brock took a sip of his cocoa, warmth settling deep in his chest as he looked around. Kiawe and Mallow were bickering playfully over who got to frost the next batch of cookies, while Lillie fussed over Lana’s marshmallow-topped cocoa. Sophocles let out a triumphant cheer as he finally got his frosting to cooperate, all the while staring at the Clemontic TV in wonder, and Pikachu darted from table to table, sneaking crumbs wherever he could.

 

The laughter, the chaos, the music - it all blended together into something magical.

 

And at the center of it all, there was Ash, his Santa hat now askew, directing the show like he was born to do it.

 

Brock smiled to himself. “Well,” he said, rolling up his sleeves as he set his mug down, “where do you need me? Don’t tell me Sophocles is still on cookie duty.”

 

Hey!” Sophocles protested, though his frosting-covered hands weren’t helping his case.

 

Ash burst out laughing, shaking his head. “Fine, Brock. You’re promoted to frosting. Sophocles, you’re on cleanup.”

 

Again?!”

 

The laughter and chatter in the café buzzed on, Brock sinking into the warmth of it all as he piped frosting onto cookies with a level of precision he hadn’t used since mixing Pokémon medicine back when he was just starting out. Ash darted between tables in the meantime, managing orders and tasks with ease, a grin never leaving his face. 

 

After a while, Brock glanced up from his cookie tray, catching Ash staring toward the door. He followed his gaze outside, noticing the soft twinkle of small crystals drifting to the ground.

 

“It’s snowing,” Brock said, a small smile tugging at his lips.

 

Ash didn’t respond right away, his eyes fixed on the falling snow. There was something almost wistful in his expression.

 

Brock set the tray down and crossed his arms, leaning casually against the counter. “You haven’t seen snow in a while, have you?”

 

Ash’s shoulders stiffened slightly, and he glanced down at the floor, his hands fidgeting at his sides. “…Yeah,” he said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.

 

Brock studied him for a moment, but before he could say anything else, Ash murmured, almost to himself, “Maybe I should go out and see it again.”

 

Brock blinked, but before he could respond, the café door jingled open. A gust of chilly air swept in, carrying with it the unmistakable sound of approaching footsteps. Ash looked up, his usual enthusiasm ready to greet the guest - only for the words to die in his throat.

 

Serena stood in the doorway, brushing snowflakes from her hair, and Ash froze. She wore a snug Santa dress, the bright red fabric hugging her frame perfectly. The white faux fur trim along the hem and cuffs shimmered faintly under the café lights, and a matching Santa hat perched atop her honey-blonde hair. The dress flared slightly at her thighs, and her tall black boots completed her festive look. 

 

“Brrrrr!” She shivered as she turned to close the door. “It’s so chilly out!”

 

Ash’s face turned a shade of red that rivaled her outfit. He didn’t move, didn’t speak, didn’t even blink - just stared, utterly captivated. 

 

“Um… Ash?” Serena’s voice broke through as she stepped closer, tilting her head in concern. As she moved closer, he could make out a faint redness in her cheeks from the cold. “Are you okay?”

 

“I-uh-y-yeah!” Ash stammered, finally snapping out of his confusion. He fumbled with the towel in his hands, his words tripping over each other. “I-I mean, you just - you look - uh, really, really cute!”

 

The redness in his cheeks deepened, spreading all the way to his ears, and he looked down, clearly flustered. 

 

Serena’s face flushed just as furiously. She clasped her hands in front of her, glancing down at her outfit with a sudden shyness. “Oh… um, thank you,” she murmured, her voice soft but carrying a note of delight.

 

Brock, watching from the counter, couldn’t help but smile to himself. It was still a little strange - watching his friend, who for so long had carried an almost comical indifference toward romance, now standing there, fully red in the face. Ash’s usual obliviousness didn’t stand a chance against the girl in front of him. No matter how hard Ash tried to deny it, Brock could see the truth clear as day: his friend liked her. And how could he not? Serena stood there, dressed so beautifully, her presence lighting up the room in a way even Ash couldn’t ignore.

 

Before the moment could stretch any longer, Mallow’s voice rang out from across the room.

 

“Woah!” she exclaimed, bounding over with wide eyes. “You’re so pretty!”

 

Serena turned, startled, only to see the group of high schoolers gathering around her with bright smiles and curious expressions.

 

“Seriously,” Mallow continued, her grin only growing wider. “You look like you just stepped out of a holiday movie!”

 

Serena’s blush deepened, though she managed a grateful smile. “That’s really sweet of you to say.”

 

Kiawe nodded, his usual serious expression turning thoughtful. “It really suits the café’s theme quite well.”

 

Lana and Lillie chimed in as well, the latter shyly complementing Serena’s hat while Sophecles added something about how her outfit matched the Clemontic TV’s festive display.

 

Amid the whirlwind of compliments and introductions, Brock glanced back at Ash, who still stood frozen at the counter, eyes flicking back and forth at the interaction. A hint of a smile started to penetrate through the shocked expression, and his eyes were shining. 

 

“Earth to Ash,” Brock teased, giving him a light nudge with his elbow. “You gonna join the conversation or just keep staring?”

 

Ash blinked rapidly, shaking his head as if to clear it. “I-I’m coming!” he said, stepping forward - though his flushed face made it clear he wasn’t quite over the initial shock.

 

Mallow was the first to break the ice with Serena, sidling up to her with a mischievous grin. “So, Serena, right? Are you Ash’s friend? Or something else?”

 

The question earned an audible groan from Ash, who had gone back to manning the counter. “Every time, Mallow. Every single time.”

 

“What?” Mallow blinked innocently, turning back to Kiawe. “He’s technically our boss, right? We’ve gotta know!”

 

Kiawe rolled his eyes. “Please don’t drag me into this again, Mallow.”

 

Serena just laughed, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. Her voice got quieter, so just Mallow and Kiawe could hear. “We’re friends. But I admire him a lot,” Her gaze fell over Ash fondly, who was wrestling a cookie out of Pikachu’s hands with exasperated playfulness. “He works really hard, and he cares about everyone who comes here. Honestly, it’s inspiring.”

 

Mallow continued asking her questions, and eventually, others started to chime in. Kiawe asked if she grew up in Pallet Town (no). Lillie asked what her hobbies were (she liked dancing, singing, and Pokévision videos). Mallow asked if she knew how to bake (she was learning).

 

“Oh! How old are you?” Lana asked curiously, tilting her head.

 

“Oh, I’m 20. Same as Ash.” Serena replied without hesitation. 

 

Brock paused mid-sip of his cocoa, glanced up with a raised eyebrow. Ash hadn’t noticed, and was laughing along with everyone else. Brock murmured into his cup. “That’s odd.”

 

As the hours passed, the warmth of the café deepened. The teenagers lingered, sharing stories and laughter, their voices mixing with the soft hum of holiday music. Outside, the snow continued to fall, casting a soft glow through the café windows.

 

Serena had become the center of attention, her easy laughter and genuine smile drawing everyone in. Even Brock found himself charmed by her warmth and openness. It was no wonder Ash had such a soft spot for her.

 

Ash, for his part, had calmed down - at least on the surface. He kept busy refilling mugs of cocoa and sneaking glances at Serena whenever he thought no one was looking. Brock noticed, of course, but he chose to keep his observations to himself.

 

The evening transitioned smoothly into a quieter rhythm. Most of the high schoolers had settled at a large table near the tree, admiring their handiwork on the cookies and gingerbread houses. Pikachu had claimed a spot by the animated fireplace on the Clemontic TV, his tiny snores blending with the crackling sound effects.

 

Serena found herself sitting with Lillie and Lana, a mug of cocoa warming her hands. The conversation had shifted to lighter topics - favorite holiday traditions, favorite Pokémon, and dreams for the future.

 

“I grew up with my mom all my life - I’m honestly still pretty new to the city,” Serena sighed into her empty cocoa cup. “It can be a lot sometimes.”

 

“Do you miss your mom?” Lillie asked suddenly, her voice soft.

 

Serena blinked, caught off guard by the question. “Oh… I do,” she admitted. “She’s back in Vaniville Town. It’s been a while since I’ve seen her.”

 

“Do you talk often?” Lillie pressed, her tone curious.

 

Serena hesitated, her fingers tightening around her mug. “Not as much as I should,” she admitted. “She doesn’t really know what I’m doing here yet.”

 

Ash, who had been passing by with a tray of empty mugs, stopped mid-step. “Wait, you haven’t told her?” he asked, his brow furrowing as he set the tray down on the counter.

 

Serena shook her head, her gaze dropping to the table. “No. She doesn’t know I’m trying to be an actress.”

 

Lillie and Lana exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of surprise and sympathy.

 

Ash pulled out a chair and sat down across from Serena, his eyes searching hers. “Why not?”

 

Serena let out a soft sigh. “She’s always had these expectations for me. She wanted me to be a Rhyhorn racer, like her. When I told her I didn’t want that, it took a long time for her to understand. And now… I don’t know if she’ll understand this.”

 

Ash leaned forward, his expression serious but kind. “Serena, you’re already doing it. You’re not just trying - you’re acting. And you’re good at it. I’ve seen how passionate you were in the audition.”

 

Serena’s cheeks flushed, but she didn’t look up. Her voice came out wavery. “But what if she doesn’t support me?”

 

“She loves you,” Ash said simply. “And if she finds out from someone else - or worse, she sees you on TV as a surprise - it might hurt her. I’m sure she’d rather hear it from you.” 

 

Serena looked up, her blue eyes wide. “You really think so?”

 

“I know so,” Ash said, his voice steady. He grinned, and his smile was almost blinding. “And I think she’d be proud. I mean, you’ve already come this far. That’s amazing.” 

 

A small, tentative smile spread across Serena’s face, the weight on her shoulders seeming to lighten just a little. Her earlier hesitation began to fade, replaced by a flicker of determination that shone in her eyes. She let out a soft breath, as though releasing the fear she’d been holding onto for so long.

 

“You’re right,” she said, her voice quiet but steady. “I’ll tell her soon. I have to. I can’t keep hiding how I feel, even if it’s scary.” Her gaze dropped to her hands, clasped tightly in her lap, before she looked back up at Ash. “Thank you, Ash. Really. You’re always helping me and I-I really don’t know how to make it all up to you. Thank you.”

 

Ash’s smile widened, soft and unbidden, as warmth bloomed in his chest. Something about the way she said his name - gentle, yet filled with quiet care - stirred a feeling deep within him, steady and reassuring. “Anytime,” he murmured, his voice carrying the same warmth he felt.

 

Lana stood frozen a few feet away, her mouth slightly open as her gaze flicked between Ash and Serena. She wasn’t sure what was happening, but she knew better than to interrupt… whatever this was. Her curiosity burned, but her instinct told her to stay quiet and just watch.

 

Lillie, meanwhile, didn’t even try to hide her smile. She leaned back in her chair, closing her eyes briefly as the low hum of conversation and the gentle warmth of the café seeped into her, relaxing every tense muscle. Whatever unspoken connection was unfolding between Ash and Serena, it was oddly soothing to witness, like everything was as it should be.

 

Before anyone could say anything more, Lillie’s phone buzzed on the table, its sharp sound cutting through the calm. All three turned their attention to it, the moment dissolving into the background.

 

Lillie glanced at the screen, and her expression froze. Her bright demeanor dimmed for just a moment - just long enough for Ash to notice.

 

“Sorry, everyone,” she said abruptly, standing up. She held her phone tightly, her fingers trembling just enough to betray her calm tone. “I have to go. My mom’s calling me.”

 

The group murmured their goodbyes, but Ash’s gaze stayed fixed on Lillie. Something about the way she avoided everyone’s eyes set him on edge.

 

“Lillie,” Ash called as she reached the door. “Wait.”

 

She paused, her hand on the doorknob. Snowflakes swirled outside, the icy wind curling around her as she turned back to face him.

 

“What is it?” she asked, her voice carefully neutral.

 

Ash stepped closer, his brows drawn together in concern. “Is everything okay? You looked… I don’t know, kinda worried.”

 

For a moment, Lillie’s carefully constructed mask slipped. Her lips parted, her eyes searching his face as if she wanted - needed - to tell him something. But then, just as quickly, she forced a smile, her expression bright but unmistakably hollow.

 

“Everything’s fine!” she said, her voice high and too quick. “I just have to get home.”

 

Ash opened his mouth to say more, to push just a little, but before he could, Lillie turned and slipped out the door. The bell above it jingled softly, and then she was gone, disappearing into the snowy night.

 

Ash stood there for a moment, staring after her. The snow outside blurred his view, but the image of her strained smile stayed with him, lingering in his mind like a shadow he couldn’t shake.

 

“Is everything okay?” Serena’s voice broke through his thoughts. He turned to see her standing a few steps behind him with a worried expression on her face.

 

Ash shrugged, his shoulders heavy with a tension he couldn’t quite shake. “I don’t know,” he said, his voice quieter now. “I just… I feel like something’s wrong, but she didn’t want to say it. And I don’t know why.”

 

Serena stepped closer, her eyes soft and full of understanding. Tentatively, she rested a hand on his shoulder, her touch gentle but grounding. “Sometimes it takes a while for people to open up,” she said, her voice steady and reassuring. “You helped me through that, remember? Just by being there. Knowing you, she’ll feel safe enough to talk when she’s ready.”

 

Ash let out a slow breath, her words sinking in. The tightness in his chest loosened ever so slightly, and he glanced back outside. The snow had picked up, flurries falling faster now, coating the street in a thickening blanket of white. “Thanks, Serena,” he said, his voice carrying a hint of relief. “I just… I hope I’m overthinking this.”

 

Serena’s quiet giggle caught him off guard, and he turned to her, his brow furrowing in surprise. “What’s so funny?”

 

“It’s not that,” she said, shaking her head with a soft smile. “It’s just… you’re so caring. It’s amazing, Ash.”

 

Her words hit him like a gentle wave, warm and unexpected. He managed a smile in return, but his gaze lingered on her a moment longer than he intended. The way the café lights danced in her eyes, the way her smile seemed to brighten everything around her - it all made him feel something he couldn’t quite put into words.

 

And he couldn’t help but notice, once again, how cute she looked in her festive outfit. It wasn’t just the dress, though it was undeniably adorable - it was everything about her. The way she carried herself, the way her presence felt steady and bright, like a quiet reassurance in the middle of a storm.

 

It wasn’t like he had no experience with cutesy things - he vividly remembered a few years back when Dawn had dressed up Pikachu and Piplup in matching Pumpkaboo costumes. Pikachu had looked equal parts annoyed and adorable, and Ash had secretly thought it was one of the funniest things he’d ever seen. But, as much as he hated to admit it - especially to Pikachu - Serena completely blew that memory out of the water.

 

Wait - he wasn’t staring too much, was he? This was a completely normal amount of staring… right?

 

Well… is there a normal level of staring?

 

Ash shifted awkwardly, his eyes trailing down to her side, where they landed on the bag she had slung over her shoulder. He blinked, suddenly distracted. “Wait,” he said, pointing to it. “Do you have to leave too?”

 

Serena tilted her head, following his gaze to her bag, and a faint blush dusted her cheeks. “Oh! No, I just brought it because…” She hesitated, her fingers tightening slightly around the strap. Finally, she pulled out a small box, neatly wrapped with a bow. “I, uh… may or may not have brought you something.”

 

 

Ash’s eyebrows shot up, and he straightened immediately. “For me?”

 

She nodded, holding it out to him, though she seemed a little flustered. “It’s a surprise,” she said quickly. “But you can’t open it until tomorrow morning, okay?”

 

Ash blinked, his hands hovering over the gift. “Tomorrow? But why not now?”

 

Serena giggled, though her blush deepened. “Because it’s part of the whole Christmas morning thing! Just… promise me you’ll wait?”

 

Ash sighed, reluctantly nodding as he carefully placed the box on the counter. “Fine, but you’re really testing my patience here.”

 

She laughed softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “It’ll be worth the wait. I promise.”

 

Before the moment could settle, Ash’s eyes widened as something seemed to click in his head. “Wait!” he blurted, spinning around so fast that Serena jumped. “I almost forgot!”

 

“Forgot what?” she asked, startled.

 

“Stay right here!” Ash darted toward the back of the café, leaving Serena standing there, confused.

 

A minute later, he returned, grinning from ear to ear and holding a small slip of paper. He thrust it toward her, practically buzzing with excitement. “Here!”

 

Serena blinked, taking the paper from his hands. At the top, in bold letters, was a name she immediately recognized: Professor Sycamore. Below it was a phone number.

 

“Ash, what is this?” she asked, her voice soft and curious.

 

Ash scratched the back of his head, his grin turning a little sheepish. “I, uh, talked to Professor Sycamore the other day. After seeing you in the audition, how much you cared about Pikachu, and just… how amazing you were with Pokémon, I thought…” He paused, his words picking up speed as his excitement grew. “I thought you needed a Pokémon of your own. Y’know, for your acting career and everything. So, I asked him if he’d help, and he said yes! He’s expecting you, Serena. He’ll help you pick your first Pokémon.”

 

She felt her breath hitch as she stared at the slip of paper in her hands. Her vision blurred slightly as tears welled up in her eyes, and before Ash could say another word, she threw her arms around him, pulling him into a tight hug.

 

“Thank you,” she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.

 

Ash blinked in surprise, but then a warm smile spread across his face as he hugged her back. “You’re welcome,” he said softly, his words barely above a whisper.

 

For a moment, the world around them seemed to fade. The chatter of the group of high schoolers in the corner and the faint clinking of dishes from Brock in the kitchen all felt distant. All Ash could focus on was the warmth of Serena’s hug and the way her gratitude felt like a gift in itself.

 

When they finally pulled apart, Serena wiped at her eyes, laughing quietly. “You’re really full of surprises, Ash.”

 

He grinned, rubbing the back of his neck. “Well, I guess I’ve just got a little holiday spirit in me today.”

 

Serena smiled back, clutching the slip of paper close to her chest. “You have no idea how much this means to me.”

 

Ash chuckled, his cheeks a little pink. “Just promise me one thing.”

 

“What’s that?”

 

“That you’ll let me be your first battle when you’re ready,” he said, his eyes sparkling with determination.

 

Serena laughed, the sound light and full of joy. “Deal.”

 



Brock stood in the kitchen, surveying the aftermath of the day’s festivities. The counter was cluttered with plates and utensils, and the sink was stacked high with dishes. He sighed, running a hand through his hair. The least he could do to help Ash out was start cleaning up. Rolling up his sleeves, he turned on the faucet and got to work, scrubbing away the remnants of cookie batter and leftover frosting.

 

As he busied himself with the dishes, his phone buzzed on the counter. His hands were covered in soap suds, so the Rotom Phone floated up to his face. Misty’s familiar face appeared on the screen, her expression lighting up when she saw him.

 

“Hey, Brock!” she greeted, her voice warm and cheerful. “Merry Christmas Eve!”

 

“Merry Christmas Eve, Misty!” Brock replied, his grin wide. “It’s great to hear from you.”

 

“Same here,” Misty said. “So, how’s Ash’s café holding up? You surviving?”

 

Brock chuckled, glancing around the chaotic kitchen. “It’s actually starting to get pretty popular. Word’s spreading. Ash has come a long way.”

 

Misty smirked, leaning closer to the screen. “And you? You’ve gone from Pokémon breeder to Pokémon doctor to Ash’s personal dishwasher, huh?”

 

Brock laughed along with her. “Hey, I don’t mind. It’s the least I can do to help him out. After everything Ash has done for us over the years… I owe him that much.”

 

Misty’s teasing smile softened into something more thoughtful. “Yeah. He’s always been there for us. I just… I hope he’s happy here, you know? That he’s finally okay.”

 

Brock paused, her words settling over him like a gentle weight. He nodded, his voice quieter now. “I think he is. Things seem to be going pretty well for him,” He paused, and a sly grin spread across his face. “Actually… there might be another reason why he’s been in such a good mood lately.”

 

She blinked in surprise. “What do you mean?”

 

Brock leaned closer to the phone, his grin widening. “I think Ash might be in love.”

 

Misty’s jaw dropped. ? Ash? In love? Are you serious?”

 

“Completely serious,” Brock said, chuckling. “There’s this girl - Serena. She’s an aspiring actress and a regular at the café. And let’s just say Ash gets… flustered around her.”

 

Misty stared at him, stunned. Then she burst out cackling. “Ash? Flustered? What would that even look like? He’s been oblivious for as long as I’ve known him! Oh, this poor girl.”

 

Brock smirked, his voice teasing. “Oh, I seem to remember a certain gym leader who used to have a crush on him.”

 

Misty’s face matched her hair as she waved her hands in protest. “Oh, come on! That was ages ago! Besides, Ash was so dense back then, he didn’t even notice!”

 

The two shared a laugh, the easy camaraderie between them as natural as ever. Brock wiped a tear from his eye and sighed. “Oh, speaking of Serena, she was in that audition you helped set up.”

 

Misty tilted her head, her smile faltering. “Audition? What audition?”

 

“Remember? That director guy - I think his name was Victor? - anyways, he came to Ash asking if his group of tv guys could come in and host an audition for the lead role there. Said you were the one who recommended the cafe. Serena did great.”

 

Misty frowned, confusion etched on her face. “Wait… what? Brock, I don’t know any directors named Victor.”

 

The words hit Brock like a bucket of cold water. His hands froze, still submerged in the soapy water. “You… don’t?”

 

“No,” Misty said firmly. “Brock, are you sure that’s what he said?”

 

The air in the kitchen felt heavier, the warm glow of the café lights suddenly dimming in Brock’s mind. His stomach churned as the weight of her words sank in.

 

“Misty…” he said slowly, his voice strained. “I don’t know what to think.”

 

“Brock?” Misty’s voice sharpened, tinged with worry. “Is Ash okay?”

 

Brock didn’t answer right away. He washed the soap off his hands and moved to the kitchen window, his gaze landing on Ash and Serena by the Christmas tree. They were talking, their faces lit with soft smiles. For a moment, everything looked normal. Peaceful.

 

But the unease gnawing at Brock refused to let go.

 

“Misty,” he said quietly, “I’ll keep an eye on him. Don’t worry.”

 

“Don’t worry?” Misty’s tone was fierce now, her words sharp. “Brock, if anything happens to Ash - if anyone even thinks about hurting him - I’ll be there faster than an angry Gyarados. You hear me?”

 

Brock managed a faint smile at her fiery response. “Got it. I’ll keep you posted.”

 

“Good,” Misty said firmly. “Take care of him, Brock. And yourself.”

 

The call ended, leaving Brock alone with his thoughts. He turned his gaze back to the window, his eyes narrowing slightly as they landed on Serena. Earlier that day, she’d casually mentioned being twenty, adding with certainty, “Same as Ash.”

 

Brock frowned. How did she know? Did she guess? No, her tone had been too confident, too sure. It wasn’t a guess - it was deliberate.

 

He thought back to a conversation he’d had with Ash not long ago. When Brock had asked how old Serena was, Ash had blinked, looking genuinely puzzled before admitting, “I don’t know.”

 

The unease in Brock’s chest deepened, sharpening into suspicion. Serena seemed kind, genuine, and sincere - but was she? Could she really be trusted?

 

His jaw tightened as his thoughts spiraled. The peaceful image of Serena and Ash by the Christmas tree didn’t feel as comforting as it had moments ago.

 

How did she know?

Notes:

Hi guys! Merry Christmas again! I hope your holiday season is as festive, if not more, than what our cuties have going on here. And what a chapter! 5000 words! And stuff happens! Brock is suspicious! Ash is falling!

Oh, and what’s going on with Lillie? Oh well, I’m sure its not important.

I hope you really liked reading this, i love hearing your feedback. Apologies for any grammar mistakes in this little note to you guys, I’m writing this in an airport about to board my flight back home.

Love yall! Next chapter will def be after Jan 1st, so I’ll just say it: see you next year!!! I hope your 2025 is amazing 💕💕💕