Archive of Our Own

The plan

Ash:

Delia took a deep breath before approaching Ash, who was currently grooming his Pokémon in Professor Oak's research yard.

"Ash, there's something I'd like to talk to you about," she said as she sat next to him.

"Is everything alright?" Ash asked as he stopped brushing Lucario, his newest Pokémon.

"Yes, dear," Delia smiled. "I'm just worried about you."

"Worried?" Ash asked in confusion. "Have I done something wrong?"

"No, dear.” Delia shook her head. "You haven't done anything wrong. But you have changed since Kalos. You're not smiling as much as you used to, your eyes have lost their adventurous sparkle, and you don't talk to anyone except your Pokémon and me. I know you and your Pokémon went through a lot, and I respect that you left for a while to work on your aura skills and learn to communicate better with your Pokémon. But you're not my sparkling son anymore, and that worries me."

"So, do you want me to go and see a therapist again or something?" Ash asked as respectfully as he could.

"No, dear," Delia shook her head. "We tried that already. You've never been good at talking about your feelings with others. You're a lot like your father that way. So, I was thinking of a new environment with new people. A place where there's lots of peace."

"You want us to leave Pallet Town?" Ash asked in surprise. "But this is where you grew up; where I grew up. What about your job, our home, Professor Oak?"

"Professor Oak suggested a place," Delia smiled, taking Ash's hands. "And my home is with you, Pikachu, Mimey and the other Pokémon you've made friends with. Also, a job for me has been organised, along with a place with plenty of room for everybody. So, what do you say?"

Ash looked at his Pokémon, who were smiling encouragingly. Maybe a change of scenery would be good for them. He then looked back at Delia.

"So, where will we be moving? Is it somewhere I've been?"

"No," Delia grinned. "A brand-new place for a brand-new chapter in our lives. We're moving to Alola."

***
Two weeks since leaving Pallet Town:

Ash gazed at the ocean silently, running Delia's plan through his head. The plan was that an old rundown house would be renovated on a piece of land located on Akala Island so there would be plenty of room for Ash's Pokémon and any other Pokémon he would catch in Alola. Delia told him that the land was a small homestead previously owned by a family who was happy to share the property and had given her a job, which Delia could start once she had moved everything to Alola. She also said Ash would be attending the Pokémon School on Melemele Island once the papers were enrolled. Ash would also be staying with Professor Kukui, a professor who researched Pokémon moves, battles and Alola Island traditions and taught a specialty class at the Pokémon School until Ash's new house was built and Delia had everything ready.

It had been two weeks since Ash had started staying with Professor Kukui with all of his Pokémon except Snorlax and his 30 Tauros. Professor Kukui was an easygoing man who easily got excited about Pokémon; especially all the Pokémon Ash had caught during his adventures. Ash liked the man, but at the same time, he kept his distance from him, unsure if he could trust him. But, thanks to Lucario and Pikachu, Ash was able to open up to the man, explaining why it took time to open up and trust others. Kukui was patient and very kind, saying Ash reminded him of a Litten, happy to defend others and keep them safe, but it took a lot to earn their trust, so they often hid their heart and emotions for their protection.

But now, as Ash stood on the patio, watching his Pokémon play in the sand and water with Lucario, Greninja and Bulbasaur, he thought about Alola. He could see why Professor Oak had suggested he and Delia move here. It was peaceful, and the people were very welcoming and treated Pokémon equally and kindly. But his mind continued to drift. He was still unsure about living here, and he was also constantly on his guard in case someone cruel and manipulative turned up.

Please give it a try, Delia had begged before he got on the plane. Give it a year, and if it doesn't work, we can always come back to Pallet Town. But please try.

"Hey Ash.”

He looked over his shoulder to see Professor Kukui standing in the doorway with a smile.

"Principal Oak just got off the phone with me. The paperwork has gone through successfully. You can start Pokémon school tomorrow. Also, Delia called. All of your things are packed and being shipped to Akala Island as we speak. She also said she'll be down with the rest of your Pokémon by next month."

"Thank you, sir," Ash said respectfully.

Kukui frowned. He had thought he was finally getting the teenager to relax. He then smiled as an idea came into his head.

"Hey, Ash, why don't you and your Pokémon walk around the markets?" he suggested. "Get a feel for what's around."

Ash thought about what Kukui said. The professor made sense. He hadn't explored the island yet, preferring to stay with his Pokémon and train.

He shrugged. "Okay. Would you like me to bring anything back?"

"Some pasta and fruit would be good," Kukui smiled. "Everyone's got big appetites."

Ash didn't respond to the joke. Instead, he looked over his shoulder.

"Hey Pikachu, Lucario, Greninja, Noivern," he called. "Let's go for a walk."

After getting some grunts of agreement, Ash grabbed his backpack, which was sitting by the door, before going down the stairs, where Pikachu jumped onto his shoulder.

"We won't take long," Ash promised as he, Lucario and Greninja walked up the beach with Noivern gliding gracefully above him. "Be good, all of you!"

As they walked to the market, Ash's thoughts drifted to what his mother had said a month back. Had he changed that much? Had he really closed himself off from everyone except his mother and his Pokémon? When was the last time he had just called up his friends to say hi? Ash sighed, quickly wiping his eyes as they started to sting.

Are you okay? Lucario's voice echoed in his head.

Have I shut myself off from everyone? Ash asked via telepathy to communicate with Lucario and Greninja.

We got hurt, Ash, Greninja reminded him. We got taken advantage of and hurt. It's okay that you have trust issues.

But have I lost my friends?

You stayed in contact with them with letters, you call them on their birthdays and send gifts. Lucario listed. You haven't shut out anyone or abandoned your friends. You're being cautious. You're guarding your heart and training to be strong enough to protect others. You are a good person.

And we all love you for it, Greninja added.

Ash smiled as they reached the market. Looking around, they saw a woman selling fruit.

"Alola," she smiled as they approached the booth. "You're new, aren't you?"

Ash nodded, keeping his face blank. "Yes, ma'am. We're here to buy some fruit."

"Of course, take what you'd like," the woman smiled, gesturing with her hand at the stand in a welcoming manner.

"Thank you. Noivern?"

Noivern landed before closing his eyes and humming. After a few minutes, Noivern opened his eyes and pointed to the pieces of fruit that were the nicest ones. After paying, Ash and his Pokémon continued towards the grocery store to get the pasta when the Pokémon stopped and started to glare down an alley.

"Is something wrong?" Ash asked, lifting a hand and closing his eyes to focus the aura down the alley.

He felt confidence and bitterness along with fear. Ash frowned before walking down the path. Down the alleyway, a group of people dressed in black and white wearing bandannas. They also had Pokémon with them. The group had surrounded a boy with blonde hair and an Umbreon that looked like it had been poisoned.

"Your Pokémon is down!" One of the boys jeered. "Now you have to give it to us!"

Ash frowned, placing his fingers to his lips to whistle sharply, catching the group's attention. They turned and glared. The bananas seemed to have skull patterns on them and they were also wearing necklaces with a skull pendant.

"What do you want?" One of the boys snapped. "This is none of your business!"

"Wait, Tupp!" A girl pointed in Ash’s direction. "Look at all those Pokémon! That one I've never seen before! Let's take them!"

"Good idea!" The first boy chuckled greedily. "Give us your Pokémon, and no one gets hurt!"

Ash glared at the group as they approached him before he lifted his hands. The Pokémon looked at him as Ash made quick movements with his hands before clicking his fingers. Just as he clicked, the Pokémon charged using different attacks until all the Pokémon were defeated, leaving the group gobsmacked.

"H-how did you do that?!" One boy spoke.

"Without a word?!" Another boy added.

"What just happened?!" A girl whimpered.

"Leave now!" Ash hissed in a menacing voice.

"Uh, we'll let you off easy for now," the first boy said wobbly as the group returned their Pokémon to their Pokéballs. "But next time, we'll destroy you!"

"Yeah!" The group yelled before they ran away.

As they did, Ash turned to look at the boy and Umbreon. The boy was staring at him, wide-eyed and panting. Ash ignored him, kneeling next to Umbreon to inspect it.

"Pikachu," he said, jerking his head to the boy while pulling out a Pecha berry to feed it to Umbreon.

As Umbreon slowly ate the berry, Ash turned his attention to the boy and studied him quietly. He had bright green eyes and long eyelashes. He was wearing a white shirt with a black vest and black jeans. Pikachu was sitting on his shoulder, gently nuzzling his cheek, which seemed to be relaxing the boy a bit.

"Are you alright?" Ash asked.

"Yes," he said quietly. "Thank you."

Ash gave a slight nod before standing up, extending his hand to the boy. The boy's eyes flickered, his cheeks turning red as he placed his hand in Ash's.

"You may want to take your Umbreon to a Pokémon Centre," Ash told him while pulling the boy to his feet.

The boy blushed as Ash released his hand. As the boy leaned down to pick up his Umbreon, Ash turned and left; Pikachu quickly jumped from the boy's shoulder to catch up while Greninja, Lucario and Noivern followed behind silently. He kept his head straight despite feeling the boy's eyes on him with each step he took.

Why didn't you introduce yourself? Greninja asked curiously. He seems nice. He reminds me a little of Clemont. You know, blonde, shy, kind of cute.

Cheeky, Ash scolded lightly, biting his inner cheek to hide his smile. It's just a boy. Besides, I'll probably never see him again.

It's an island, Ash, Lucario pointed out. There's a high chance you'll see him again.

Whatever. Ash shrugged. Let's just get the pasta and go.

Greninja and Lucario rolled their eyes before talking to Pikachu and Noivern, who giggled.

"Just because I can't speak Pokémon doesn't mean I don't know that you all are teasing me behind my back," Ash snapped, causing the Pokémon to laugh harder.

***
Gladion:

Gladion Aether walked out of the alley, thinking about the mysterious boy who just saved him and his Umbreon before walking away with a Pikachu, a Lucario, a Noivern and a Pokémon he had never seen before.

Who was that? He thought as he started walking in the direction of the Pokémon Centre.

As he walked, he heard a car pull up beside him. He looked up and smiled as the window rolled down, revealing his little sister, Lillie and her Pokémon partner, an Alolan Vulpix she affectionately named Snowy.

"There you are," she sighed. "I've been looking everywhere for... wait, is Umbreon alright?"

"Yeah, she's okay," Gladion nodded as he climbed into the car. "We just had a run-in with Team Skull, and I didn't have Lycanroc."

"Father got you Lycanroc for a reason, big brother," Lillie sighed, pulling a Lum berry out of her bag before handing it to Umbreon, who gratefully ate the berry.

As Lillie spoke, Gladion stroked Umbreon, still thinking about the mysterious boy who saved him. He seemed stern, but at the same time, Gladion had found the boy very beautiful. Tan skin, strong-looking, kind to Pokémon. But his eyes; despite them being a warm brown were guarded, like locked doors.

"Gladion, are you listening to me?" Lillie asked as she poked his shoulder.

"Sorry, Lillie," Gladion snapped out of his thoughts.

Lillie sighed. "Team Skull has been appearing more often and harassing people. Would you please start walking around with Lycanroc?"

"I promise," Gladion nodded.

"Wonderful," Lillie beamed. "Anyway, Mallow just messaged me some exciting news. We're getting a new student in our class."

Gladion listened politely to his sister talk about the new student and the possible Pokémon they might have, but his mind kept drifting back to the beautiful boy with chocolate eyes.

***
First Day of School:

The following day, as he sat in the specialty classroom waiting for Professor Kukui to come and start his lessons, Gladion continued to think about the boy from yesterday. Honestly, he couldn't stop thinking about him. Suddenly, he felt something bounce off his arm. He looked at the floor to see a paper airplane with some random words sitting on the folds. Sighing, he picked it up and opened it. It was a request for a date.

Rolling his eyes, he looked at the doorway. A girl was standing there, looking at him hopefully. Sighing, he pulled out a pen and signed it before handing the note to Umbreon, who took the message back to the girl. As Umbreon walked back, he looked away so he wouldn't have to see the disappointment on the girl's face. Lillie, who often sat beside him, was trying to hide her smile.

"Did you get asked out again?" she giggled softly as she pulled out her books.

"Why haven't they learnt that I'm not interested? Is she gone?” Gladion asked, to which she nodded.

"Well, you are good-looking, Gladion," a blue-haired girl called Lana teased from behind him, to which Gladion rolled his eyes.

"Alola class, we have a new student,” Professor Kukui announced as he walked into the class.

Following close behind was a boy about Gladion’s age with black hair, tan skin and brown eyes. He had a Pikachu sitting on his shoulder, a Lucario flanking his right and a blue, amphibious-looking Pokémon by his left. Gladion's eyes widened. It was him; the boy who helped him yesterday.

"Everyone, this is our newest student," Kukui said. "This is Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town in the Kanto region."

"It's nice to meet you all," Ash said respectfully while bowing. "These are my partners Pikachu, Lucario and Greninja."

"Pika!" Pikachu waved.

"Luca!" Lucario growled, bowing along with Greninja, who didn't say anything.

"Alola, I'm Kiawe," a tall, dark-skinned boy with red hair smiled.

"I'm Mallow," a green-haired girl grinned.

"Lana," Lana waved.

"Sophocles," a chubby boy with orange hair grinned.

"My name is Lillie," Lillie smiled. "And this is my older brother Gladion."

Gladion shyly waved as Ash studied everyone before he stopped on Gladion.

"Are you and Umbreon well after yesterday?" he asked.

"Yes, thank you," Gladion nodded, feeling the blood rush to his cheeks as Ash gazed at him.

"You know my brother?" Lillie asked in amazement.

"We met briefly yesterday," Ash answered.

"Well, it's time to start our lesson," Kukui announced. "Ash, seeing how you know Gladion a little, I would like you to sit next to him until you've caught up. And your Pokémon can join the others at the back."

"Yes, sir," Ash said respectfully before walking to the free desk beside Gladion and taking a seat while Pikachu, Lucario and Greninja went to the back of the classroom to greet the other Pokémon playing there.

The two looked at each other before Gladion blushed and looked ahead at the lesson, feeling his heart race as Ash occasionally looked at him during the lesson.

***

Ash:

Later that evening, Ash sat by the videophone in Kukui's office, waiting for his mother to answer so he could tell her about his day.

"Hello, sweetheart," Delia's smiling face appeared on the screen. "How was your first day? Did you make lots of friends?"

"Everyone is very kind and welcoming in Alola," Ash admitted. "It's different."

"Are you okay with that?" Delia asked in concern.

"I'm not sure. I don't know how I feel."

"That's okay. Remember one year, and if you're still unhappy, we can come back to Pallet,” she reminded him.

"Okay," Ash nodded before looking up at the clock. "I have to go feed everyone."

"Okay, dear," Delia smiled. "I love you, and I'll see you in three weeks."

As Ash hung up the phone, he thought about everyone he had met at the school, but his mind drifted to Gladion. There was something about that boy. He made Ash feel something strange, and he didn't know what to do about that.

Are you feeling okay, Ash? Lucario's voice said in his head.

I don't know. Ash sighed. I really don't know.

Four Months since moving to Alola:

It had been four months since Ash had started living in Alola, and in a way, he slowly felt like he was turning back into his old self. He had caught three new Pokémon, and one had evolved into something new, gained a friendly rivalry with Kiawe and Tapu Koko, the Island Guardian of Melemele Island (honestly his ability to attract the attention of Legendary Pokémon) and had participated in the Island Challenges on Melemele and Akala Island, winning four Z-Crystals. His class admired him and his Pokémon, and every day he learned something new about them and Alola. And he loved every bit of it.

He loved the Pokémon, he loved his teacher, and he loved his new friends, much to Delia's delight, who noticed that her son's sparkle was slowly coming back. But he still kept some of his feelings hidden, and even though he was having a good time with everyone, he still didn't fully smile. He gave more half-smiles if he found something amusing, but he didn't fully smile or laugh. Everyone referred to him as the "Human Litten" because of the way he acted, but he didn't mind.

The past four months had flown by, and now, he was finishing unpacking his room in his newly renovated cottage, which was next door to Kiawe's property, much to his delight. He started helping Kiawe with deliveries before school, and the two would often have fire-type battles with each other. Mimo, Kiawe's little sister, was delighted to have a new neighbour, especially one who owned lots of Pokémon to play with. Ash honestly wasn’t sure who was happier; the little girl or the Pokémon.

Hearing squeals of joy outside, Ash smiled as he opened another box. His face fell when he saw the contents. Inside the box were his badges and treasures from his past. He stared at the items, unsure if he should unpack them or not. He loved his badges. They were his pride and joy after his Pokémon but now, looking at them and all the other items, they just reminded him of all the pain he faced in his travels. Sighing, he closed the box and kicked it under his bed before getting up and falling face-first onto his bed. So far, everything had been wonderful, but at the same time, Ash couldn't help but wonder how long this wonderful feeling he had was going to last.

Is someone or something coming to ruin everything? He thought. I don't know if I can handle something going wrong. Please, Arceus, tell me. Is something terrible going to happen?

***
Gladion:

Gladion lay on his bed thinking about what had happened that day. Team Skull had come around the school to cause chaos by riding their motorcycles all over the gardens and chasing the Pokémon. He remembered how one of them chased some smaller Pokémon into a corner before pulling out his Salandit, ready to bully them. Gladion had run over to protect them, but the boy, Tupp, decided to be cruel by scaring Gladion with his motorcycle. The bike's roar caused him to drop both Umbreon's and Lycanroc's Pokéballs in surprise.

"Aw, no big bad Lycanroc or magical Umbreon to save you now," Tupp taunted as Salandit moved closer, hissing menacingly.

Gladion had bitten his lip before turning around to cover the frightened Pokémon with his body, ready to protect them from the poisonous lizard. But nothing came. Gladion turned to see that Ash, Pikachu and Greninja were in front of him, glaring at Tupp.

"Don't you touch him," Ash had growled.

"And what are you going to do about it?" Tupp mocked.

Ash's eyes narrowed before moving his hands, performing some hand signals. After a snap of the fingers, Greninja unleased a water shuriken, saturating Salandit before Pikachu used Thunderbolt on both Salandit and Tupp. Defeated and a little burnt, Tupp called Salandit back to its Pokéball before leaving with the rest of the group, swearing revenge on Ash. As Tupp and his friends rode away, Ash had knelt in front of Gladion.

"Are you hurt?" he had asked.

"We're all okay," Gladion had said as the Pokémon moved away from the wall.

"That is good, but not what I asked," Ash had said. "Are you okay?"

"Yes, I'm fine," Gladion nodded.

Gladion remembered how Ash was so close he could see the freckles across his cheeks and nose. He remembered how much he wanted to reach up and touch Ash's cheek and feel if his skin was soft. He felt like his skin was on fire because his face was red. As Ash helped him to his feet again, he remembered the first time Ash had saved him.

"Thank you for protecting me again," he said as Ash picked up Gladion’s Pokéballs and handed them back to him.

Ash nodded before he walked over to one of the gardens to help clean up while Gladion stood there, completely stunned and his heart racing.

"Gladion?" Lillie's voice came through the door, interrupting his thoughts. "Dinner's ready."

"I'll be right out," he called as he got off his bed, his mind still on Ash.

I've known him for two months, and I've never seen him smile. I wonder how he looks when he smiles? He thought before sighing. Why can't I stop thinking about him?

***
Six Months since moving to Alola:

As Gladion sat behind Ash on Charizard's back, he clung to him tightly with his eyes shut as Charizard flew at incredible speed towards Ash's house on Akala Island. Earlier after class, Kukui had asked Ash and Gladion to stay behind.

"I've noticed you two are struggling in some areas," Kukui had said. "Ash in theory and Gladion in practical work. But at the same time, you’re fantastic at practical work, Ash, while Gladion, you excel in theory. So, I want you two to work together and build up each other's strengths in the sections you're struggling with."

Both boys had agreed, and Ash had invited Gladion to his house on Akala Island to start working together. And that's how Gladion found himself on the back of Ash's Charizard; arms wrapped tightly around his crush.

Yes, crush. Frustrated, he spoke to Lillie about his strange feelings for Ash, and she helped him realise that he had a big crush on Ash, after a bout of teasing of course because it was Lillie’s sisterly duty to tease her big brother while providing support.

"Gladion, we've landed," Ash announced.

Gladion opened his eyes to see they had landed beside a fence surrounding a simple cottage. He blushed. He was so consumed with his thoughts on Ash that he hadn't noticed they had arrived on Akala Island. Ash waited patiently with Pikachu on his shoulder for Gladion to release him so he could get off, but he didn't let go.

"Are you alright?" Ash asked.

"I, um, I," Gladion stuttered in embarrassment.

"You're a little stunned, aren't you?"

Gladion didn't say a word, looking down in embarrassment. Pikachu gave his head a gentle pat, which made him smile.

"Okay.” Ash placed his fingers to his lips and whistled, high and sharp.

Immediately, Sceptile and Bayleef ran over.

"Bayleef, use Sweet Scent, please," Ash requested. "And Sceptile, please help Gladion off Charizard."

"Bay!" Bayleef shook her leaf, releasing a sweet, slightly spicy but delicious smell into the air.

The smell soothed Gladion so much that he relaxed his grip on Ash, allowing Sceptile to gently help him down.

"Well done, both of you," Ash praised, getting off Charizard's back and patting them. "Gladion, I have to feed everyone, so why don't you follow me to the backyard and let your Pokémon out?"

"Um, o-okay," Gladion stuttered again, completely surprised to see a proper smile on Ash's face, not the half-smile he usually gave. "Your smile is beautiful.”

He then winced. Did he say that out loud?

"Did you say something?" Ash asked.

"Just thank you," Gladion said quickly, blushing hard.

Ash cocked an eyebrow before shrugging. "Okay, follow me."

He then walked over to a gate, followed closely by Charizard, Sceptile and Bayleef. Gladion quickly jogged to catch up as Ash opened the gate before following him inside. He gasped. The backyard was huge; which was standard seeing how it was a homestead property. A couple of acres of green grass with a garden shed and a fenced vegetable garden similar to his mother’s at home a few feet away from the cottage. But what made it incredible were the dozens of different Pokémon running towards them in excitement. He stared at them in awe. He had never seen so many types of Pokémon before, outside of where his parents worked.

"Hello, everyone," Ash smiled again as Pikachu jumped from his shoulder. "I'll get your food ready. Gladion, why don't you let out your Pokémon?"

"Okay," Gladion nodded uneasily as he pulled his Pokéballs out of his bag.

He held them out, allowing the Pokéballs to release his Umbreon, Midnight Form Lycanroc, Zoroark, and Silvally.

"Impressive," Ash nodded as he released Lucario, Greninja and his Dusk Form Lycanroc. "You must have an excellent relationship to have such powerful-looking Pokémon."

Gladion blushed while the Pokémon stepped forward to say hello to the new faces.

“But who's this one?” Ash asked curiously as he carefully approached Silvally.

"I call it Silvally," Gladion answered, unsure whether or not he should tell Ash how he got it.

"It's beautiful," Ash smiled, gently stroking Silvally's cheeks before frowning. Slowly, he ran his hands over Silvally's face and up and down its neck."Someone hurt Silvally, didn't they? I can feel scars."

Gladion nodded. "I found it in chains. So, I broke it out, and it’s been with me ever since. I don't let it out a lot because I'm scared someone will take it away."

"Well, it’ll always have sanctuary here. Any time you don't feel safe, you and your Pokémon are welcome here. Always." Ash promised as he stopped petting Silvally.

"Tha-thank you," Gladion said in surprise.

"I'll get everyone's food ready. Your Pokémon may have some too if they're hungry. It shouldn't take long, so why don't you go inside? You don't have to worry about disturbing anyone. Mum won't be home until late." Ash told him, pointing towards the house.

"Oh-okay." Gladion turned and walked in the direction Ash was pointing, where he saw a Mr Mime sweeping the back door step.

"Mime, mime," it requested, pointing to Gladion's shoes.

Gladion nodded, squatting to remove his shoes before positioning them neatly by the door.

"Would you show Gladion to my room, please, Mimey?" Ash called from the shed as he handed out full food bowls. "We'll be studying together."

"Mime, Mr Mime." Mr Mime beckoned to Gladion to follow.

Gladion followed to psychic-fairy type into the cottage and up a staircase before stopping outside a closed door. Using his psychic abilities, Mr Mime mimed turning a doorknob before making a pushing motion with his hands. The door swung open smoothly, revealing a bedroom.

"Mr Mime.” Mr Mime gestured into the room.

"Okay," Gladion nodded before walking inside, taking in his new surroundings.

There was a simple, messily-made bed, a desk in a corner and an empty bookshelf in another corner. There were also posters on the walls about different Pokémon and Pokémon Leagues in other regions, along with some photographs of Ash with different people. Gladion stared at Ash's bright smile in the pictures. He seemed so carefree.

You look so happy, he thought. What happened to you, Ash? What made you hide your feelings from people?

"Pinap juice okay with you?"

Gladion flinched and turned to see Ash standing behind him, holding two glasses full of Pinap juice.

"Um, yes, that's fine," he nodded, breathing deeply to calm his heart down from the surprise.

Ash nodded, setting the glasses on the desk before sitting on the floor, taking off his backpack and pulling out his school books.

"The Pokémon usually stay outside so they can play and relax, so it’ll just be us," Ash explained as he opened a history book. "But don’t worry, they’ll be okay. We’ll be able to hear them if they're in trouble. So, how about we get started?"

Gladion nodded, sitting down across from Ash. "Sure, so what are you struggling with?"

***
Nine Months since moving to Alola:

Over the next three months, Ash and Gladion got together every day after school and worked together to help each other get better in the areas they were struggling with. Every week, they would switch between each other's houses before Ash either flew home from Gladion's house or Ash would take Gladion home on Noivern due to them working late. As the weeks rolled by, Ash started to understand theory more, especially when Gladion encouraged him to approach it like he did battling; with his own unique style and way of understanding. At the same time, Gladion grew more confident in battling with his Pokémon, thanks to Ash teaching him how to immerse himself in a battle.

Also, during those weeks, they got to know each other better. Gladion told Ash about his parents and opened up about how he got Silvally, while Ash showed Gladion how he could communicate with his Pokémon without using words. As Gladion spent more time with Ash and learnt more about him, he slowly realised that he no longer had a crush on him. He was slowly falling in love with this person, but at the same time, he still felt like Ash was hiding something from him and wanted to know what that was.

One morning, Gladion arrived at Ash's house on the weekend, ready to work with Ash on the exam that was coming up in the next month. He was about to knock when the door opened, revealing Delia.

"Alola dear," Delia smiled. "I'm so sorry. I'm just rushing out to work."

"Sorry, Mrs Ketchum," Gladion said shyly.

"No need for that; call me Delia," Delia smiled. "Ash has gone out to get a few things, but he'll be back soon. You're welcome to go inside and wait for him."

"Are you sure?" Gladion asked. "I can always come back another time."

"No, no," Delia smiled. "I know you two have exams coming up, so it'll be better to start studying immediately. Just head on inside."

"Okay, have a good day at work, Mrs...I mean Delia," Gladion said shyly.

"You too," Delia beamed before walking towards the Tauros here.

After taking off his shoes, Gladion made his way to Ash's room, where he started to set up books and pencils. As he did, he accidentally dropped some, causing them to roll under the bed. Sighing, Gladion got on his stomach to feel around for the pencils, only for his hand to touch what felt like a box. He frowned before pulling the box out. He stared at it. His head was telling him to “put it back”, but his heart was saying “look inside”.

I'm probably going to regret this. He thought as he opened it.

Inside were cases filled with badges, half a ribbon, a soothe bell, half a broken Pokéball, a pair of blue gloves, some trophies and medals. Gladion stared at them all. Why were they hidden away in a box under his bed?

"What are you doing?"

Gladion jumped, accidentally kicking the box, as he turned to see Ash standing in the doorway, looking angry.

"Why were you looking at that?" Ash snapped as he walked into the room to fix the box before pushing it back under the bed.

Gladion looked at him in fear. Ash had a temper, but that was usually directed towards bullies or people who abused Pokémon. This was the first time Ash's anger was directed at him and it made Gladion feel afraid.

"I-I'm sorry," he stuttered. "I dropped some pencils, and I found the box. I'm sorry I shouldn't have looked."

"No, you shouldn't have," Ash snapped.

Gladion felt tears well up as he stood up and grabbed his books. "I'm sorry. I'll leave."

Gladion ran out of the room and out of the house as fast as he could, pulling out Silvally's Pokéball as he pulled on his shoes.

"Take me to the seaport," he requested as he climbed on Silvally's back.

As Silvally ran to the seaport, Gladion clung to the artificial Pokémon and sobbed, not noticing that Ash was watching him tearfully from his window, face full of guilt.

Ten Months since moving to Alola:

Ash:

One month had passed since that day, and Gladion had been avoiding Ash as much as he could, which was frustrating Ash. He knew that he had hurt Gladion by snapping at him, but Gladion just wouldn't talk to him, no matter how hard Ash tried. Every chance he had to run away from Ash, Gladion took. He was even using his Pokémon to help him hide.

"I didn't mean to snap at him, Mum," Ash had said to Delia when she asked him why Gladion had stopped coming around. "Why am I feeling this guilty? Why am I missing him?"

"Give him time," Delia smiled, hugging her son tightly. "Let him come to you when he's ready. And the way you're feeling, well, that's up to you."

Ash frowned as he thought of his mother's words during class one day. Suddenly, the bell rang. As he watched Gladion quickly pack up his books, he decided he was tired of waiting. After quickly scribbling a note inviting him to talk at an ice cream shop, he handed it to Pikachu.

"Please give this to Gladion," he requested.

"Pika pi," Pikachu nodded, taking the note in his paws before walking over to Gladion and jumping on his desk.

Gladion looked at Pikachu wearily as he held out the letter. He looked over at Ash, who gave him a hopeful look, before taking the note and reading it. He bit his lip before picking up his pen, signing the paper before handing it back to Pikachu. Pikachu ran back to Ash and gave him the note. Holding his breath, he looked at it hopefully.

Okay, it said, causing Ash to sigh in relief.

***

As Ash walked towards the ice cream shop by himself, he heard a strange cry coming down an alley.

Is that a Pokémon? He thought before turning into the alley.

As he walked, he felt nervous. Something wasn't right.

"Is someone there?" he called. "Are you hurt?"

"No, but you will be," a voice behind him said.

Ash turned and glared to see Tupp from Team Skull along with some other male members.

"Good job, Salandit," Tupp smirked, holding out his Pokéball. A light flashed as Tupp returned his Pokémon. "Now, it's time for me to have my revenge!"

"You want to battle?" Ash growled, trying to stay brave despite feeling anxious because he didn't have any of his Pokémon.

"No," Tupp smirked as he stepped forward. "I'm sick and tired of you beating me in battles, so I'm going to beat you in the only way I know how. With my fists!"

Ash stepped back, hoping he could turn and run, but he was surrounded, and there was no escape.

"Get him!" Tupp yelled.

The group quickly grabbed Ash, holding him in place before forcing him to his knees. Once he was on the ground, they started throwing punches and kicks at his torso. Ash groaned in pain as his eyes closed, curling himself up in an attempt to protect himself from the kicks and punches.

"Use Air Slash!"

There was a startled yell before the beatings finally stopped. Ash opened his eyes to see Gladion standing with Silvally, glaring. He looked around. Team Skull was on the ground, looking dazed and confused.

“Who-who are you?” Tupp stammered. “Th-this has nothing to do with you!”

"Go away!" Gladion snarled while Silvally growled. “Now!”

Flinching in fear, Team Skull jumped to their feet before running away as fast as possible. As they ran, Gladion kneeled in front of Ash, taking his face in his hands.

"Are you alright?' Gladion asked, inspecting Ash's face.

"I'll be okay," Ash smiled weakly, turning his head briefly to spit out some blood. "They didn't break anything. It just looks bad."

"I'll get you over to my house to clean you up." Gladion helped him to his feet before helping him onto Silvally’s back. "Take us to my house, Silvally.”

***

Later, Ash sat on Gladion’s bed with his shirt off while Gladion examined him by gently feeling around to see if anything was severely damaged.

"You're right, you haven't broken anything. But when the bruises come through, it's going to hurt like mad.”

"They're on my skin, not in my muscles," Ash told him. "So, they'll heal much quicker."

Gladion nodded before getting off the bed to go into his en-suite, walking back out after a few minutes with a bowl of water and a cloth before sitting on the floor.

"Sit down here so I can help clean off the blood," he requested, dipping the cloth in the bowl and wringing it out.

Ash obeyed, moving to sit in front of Gladion so he could gently clean the dried blood off Ash’s face. They stayed quiet as Gladion cleaned him until Ash decided he couldn't any longer.

"Gladion, listen, I'm sorry I snapped at you."

"It's okay," Gladion said, cleaning one of Ash's hands. "I shouldn't have looked."

"I'm not upset at you for looking," Ash told him. "I'm upset you found it."

Gladion stopped what he was doing to look at him in confusion. "What do you mean? That box is full of victories. Why would you want to hide it?"

"They're the reason why I am the way I am," Ash sighed. "I wasn't always like this. I was more carefree and happier. But then I learnt a few things about myself that people wanted to abuse. Like how I'm a descendant of an Aura Guardian and that Greninja and I have something called a “Bond Phenomenon” that allows us to fuse spiritually and battle as one. People have been after me for six years because of what I can do and how powerful my Pokémon are. After Kalos, I decided that I would never let anyone use me or hurt my Pokémon again. So, we trained until we could communicate in battle using signals, and I could use aura along with Lucario properly. The reason I'm in Alola is that Mum was hoping that the old me would come back. That I would be happy again. And I did. You, Professor Kukui, all our friends; I began to feel like my old self, but I still kept my walls up just in case. And then, we started spending more time together. You broke down my walls, and I started to fall for you. When you stopped talking to me, even though I deserved it, it broke my heart. I'm sorry I hurt you."

Gladion stared at him in shock as he put his hand down. "You love me?"

"Yes," Ash smiled. "I love you, Gladion."

Gladion stared at Ash’s smile with wide eyes. It was bright and sincere. He let out a soft, awed gasp.

"Your smile is beautiful," he said, reaching up to touch Ash's cheek, watching as Ash’s eyes closed briefly before opening again. "I love you too, Ash."

The two looked at each other silently for a few minutes when Ash started to lean forward. Gladion's breath quickened as his hand fell from Ash's face. Was Ash going to.... Gladion's eyes and mouth closed as he felt Ash's lips against his briefly before pulling away. He opened his eyes to see that Ash was smiling.

"Am I your first kiss?" he asked.

Gladion looked down, nodding shyly. His eyes widened as Ash’s hand appeared, gently positioning itself under Gladion's chin before tilting his head up so he was looking at him again.

"Let me try again," Ash said softly. "May I kiss you?"

"Um," Gladion turned red. "I-um."

Ash cocked his head to the side. Closing his eyes, Gladion took a shuddering breath before smiling.

"I would like that," he admitted.

Ash nodded before leaning forward to kiss Gladion again. Gladion relaxed into the kiss as his hands moved to cup Ash's face. As Ash ran his tongue along his lips, Gladion trembled while he opened his mouth. As they continued to kiss, Ash moved to lie on his back, pulling Gladion with him. Once they were lying down, Gladion broke the kiss to look at him. Ash smiled as he pushed Gladion's hair back.

"You have beautiful eyes," he murmured before pulling Gladion down again.

****

"Hi mum," Ash smiled over the videophone with Gladion by his side.

"Ash dear, what happened?!" Delia cried in shock at the cuts on Ash's face.

"I'm okay," Ash reassured her. "Just some bullies playing dirty. Hey mum, I know it hasn't been a year yet, but I think I want to keep living in Alola."

"You do?" The concern in Delia's face disappeared as it filled with delight. "What changed your mind?"

"Let's just say I don't want to leave my boyfriend behind," Ash beamed happily as he took Gladion's hand, causing Gladion to blush and Delia to squeal.

"Really?! That’s fantastic! Oh, Gladion, you have to come to dinner.”

Gladion laughed nervously. “Yes ma’am.”

Delia nodded excitedly before giving him a grateful smile. “And Gladion?”

“Yes?”

“Thank you. Thank you for bringing back my son's sparkle."