Archive of Our Own

Hop wasn’t naive, he could see it. He could see the way Leon’s eyes lit up when he watched the boy from Kanto battle. How he would actively want to see his matches and even spend time with him.

Hop wasn’t dumb… he could see Leon admired the him probably as much as the boy admired Leon.

Hop wasn’t a fool… he was sure more than ever that Leon wished that Ash was his younger brother, not him…

And it made sense Hop was sure. Hop himself liked Ash too along with his friend. They were great people… so great that they earned practically all the attention of Galar’s greatest Champion.

Hop wonders if it’s jealousy talking. He always did feel just the tiniest stab of it when he saw his brother happily beam and talk with other kids, holding them up and treating them in ways Hop yearned and missed.

He always pushed that back though because that’s just how it was. The people of Galar loved their Champion and of course their Champion loved them….

Ash though… well he wasn't just a fan he was someone Leon actively wanted to be around. Someone he apparently had even taken training, taken on adventures of their own, even helped in Gym Battles!

… Where had Leon been when Hop wanted any of that?… When he still wanted it…

It hits Hop hard and he finds it difficult to want to get out of bed. He’s thankful their family is out of town with only Sonia around because he’s sure they’d just harass him to get up and out and quit being lazy.

Hop wasn't being lazy though, heck even though his feelings towards Ash were mixed at the moment he wasn't even angry or jealous…

He was just…. sad….

He’s not even sure why he came home. Home usually had memories of expectations he couldn't fulfill, dreams he couldn't achieve, pride and maybe even love he couldn't acquire no matter how much he tried…

Yet home also had memories when he was younger and his brother would visit and make the whole house light up. Everything feel warmer and his presence be a comforting blanket curled around him and made him feel safe and cared for.

He hasn't had that blanket in a long time… he hasn't had his big brother for him in a long time…

Maybe his stupid brain wanted to torture himself more. Make him feel worse like it always seemed to whenever he failed.

Pondering thoughts like that are something he cant pull away from even when he faintly notices Sonia peer into his room.

He doesn’t acknowledge her, she likes to spend time with Ash and Goh too but at least Hop has seen more of her. He doesn't want to mess up losing the only connection he has left here.

When he sees her face turn to a deep frown and walk away, Hop winces thinking somehow he just did.

Great…

He lays there longer, wanting to move even less now.

Maybe if he just lay here long enough he could fall asleep and just be done with these stupid thoughts and emotions. His eyes feel heavy but they cant stay closed and his sadness mingles into frustration at himself once more.

So help him he…

“Hop? Hop are you up here?”

Hop’s eyes widen as he hears that voice. He’s heard it mainly on the tele as of late, it’s been forever since he’s heard it home. Why was it…?

He turns in his bed and stiffens when he sees none other than Leon himself looking around from the top of the stairway. He has a concerned expression on his face. Hop could only stare.

Why… why was Lee here? He’s not supposed to be here…

Hop doesn't dare say anything, he almost wants to hide under the covers so he doesn't see him.

He wants to hide from Lee now? Gosh he really was miserable wasn't he?

Of course he doesn't get the chance because his brother's senses are sharp and those gold eyes dart to his room. Their eyes lock and Hop can see the relief in his face slowly wilt into even more worry when he takes in his position.

The man strides in quick and fast. His long legs certainly help and Hop closes his eyes in a childish attempt to make it seem like he isn’t there.

His brother is right in front of him in less than a second, squatting down to be probably get a better look at him. He can feel his breath tickle his cheek and Hop inwardly cringes at how close he is.

“Hey… Hey, Hop what’s the matter? You not feeling well Kiddo?”

He bites the inside of his cheek as a large, calloused hand rubs his head and pauses to feel for his temperature.

“You don’t feel warm…”

Hop wants to scream because what the heck was Leon doing here?! He knows for a fact the man was supposed to be spending the day taking Ash and Goh training… mainly Ash he’s certain.

Leon being here didn’t feel good it only made him feel worse. Because he knows his brother would much rather do what he loves with who he loves not having to take care of some kid he had been stuck with.

“Hop!” Leon gasps and his hand is gently wiping under his eyes and cheeks and… oh… oh great he was crying.

“Hopscotch what’s wrong?” Leon murmured.

Lee really needs to stop with the nicknames because this is seriously hurting him. He needed to stop pretending he cared, stop with his Champion persona and just admit he didn't want him around.

A whimper squeezes out of his throat and Leon lets out a soothing shushing sound, another hand now moving to run through his hair.

“I haven’t seen you cry in years…” Leon’s voice is quiet and sad. “What happened? What’s got you so upset?” When Hop doesn’t respond, he can feel Leon lean even closer. Hop’s startled by just how heavy his brother's chest is as it presses against his arm and pins it down. He knew his brother was strong but he had truly forgotten just how strong.

How long has it been since he's been this close to him?

Despite that Leon’s voice is a hushed tone so close to his ear he could feel the warmth of his breath.

“C’mon now…Tell your big brother…” The gentle encouragement filled with worry breaks something in him.

Yet Hop lets out a shaky sigh and forces himself to sit up. He leans back from his brother to try and keep his distance. He does it in a way he hopes isn't noticeable.

“… Why are you here?” Hop murmured. Leon looks surprised and tilts his head.

“Sonia called me and told me something was going on with you. I rushed right over with Ash and Goh.”

Hearing their names makes Hop flinch and unfortunately that is something his brother notices. The frown on the man’s face deepens.

“Hop, what’s going on?”

Well, great he was cornered. He honestly didn’t even want to have to say it, let alone talk about it. It hurt too much to even think about.

Except this is Leon and the man is insanely stubborn and if he wants something he doesn't stop until he gets it. Even if he probably doesn't really want it and it just keeping his Champion duty in mind.

Guess he might as well just deal with it… get it over with so he can finally put himself out of this miserable situation.

“Hop?”

Oh right… he was waiting for an answer.

He opens his mouth to speak but he’s cut off by a voice down stairs.

“Leon is everything okay?”

It’s Ash… Hop’s heart aches more.

He’s in their house? His brother really wasn't wasting time pushing Hop out of his life was he?

“Hang on Ash!” Leon called back looking over his shoulder. Hop flinched again.

Probably waiting for the chance to kick Hop out right? Waiting to urge him away so Ash could take his room on top of everything else.

Great now on top of losing the one family member he had thought loved him he was losing his home too… Well, it wasn't really much of a home without Lee here anyway so he guesses there was a condolence.

He’d need to plan where he was going to stay after this… Maybe far off somewhere no one could find him. A mountain or something. Maybe another region? Ash travelled from another region just fine so Hop could too right? Sure Galar had more rules against that sort of travel alone but maybe… ugh great. On top of everything else he’d need to worry about all that and more.

“Now what were you saying Hop?” Leon asked turning back to him. His brows pinch with worry and Hop suddenly realizes he’s grimacing.

“Wait…Are you hurt?” His voice turns slightly up in what sounds like panic and he’s reaching out again looking ready to poke and prod him to find where such a place could be.

“N-no…” Hop murmurs and Leon pauses.

“Then what’s going on? You’re not acting like yourself Hop…” He looks him over again frown tightening anxiously. “…Are you sure you’re not hurt?”

Yeah he was hurt but not in the way Leon thinks…

Hop forces himself to take a shaky breath and let it out. He faintly notices his brother’s face becoming more pinched with worry the longer he said nothing.

Leon’s so good of an actor it almost seems like he’s fooled himself…

“Weren’t you supposed to take Ash training today…?” Hop asks. Leon blinks.

“Yeah I… Hop what does this have to do with anything?” Hop bit his lip.

“You really like Ash huh?”

Leon looks even more confused. “I… well yes he’s a good trainer with a lot of skill and potential. He’s a good kid too.” He frowns more when Hop flinches. “Hop… Why are we talking about Ash? What is going on with you?”

Leon doesn't even want Hop talking about Ash? He really must see him as not worthy of anything to do with him at all huh?

“… Hop…” Leon’s voice pulls him from his thoughts with his anxious, concerned edge . “You need to tell me you...You’re really worrying me here Little Brother…”

Hearing Leon call him that when he knew that wasn't the case at all, Hop can’t hold back the tears anymore.

“Hop!” Leon gasps, hands up and only to freeze. He doesn't move because he probably is wondering what the heck he’s supposed to do. Hop didn’t really tell him anything so from his mind he might be worried if he does anything it could make it worse.

Like Leon already has to deal with a kid crying in front of him when he just wants to get out of here. He wouldn't want it to be worse than that…

“Hop! H-Hop talk to me what…?”

“Do… do you…” Hop tries to speak but the words can’t squeeze past his burning throat. He tries again, but it’s even harder when Leon’s staring at him with those worried caring eyes.

He wasn't worried, he didn’t care… why was he doing this to him?

“Hoppy…?” Leon tried again. Hearing that old nickname in particular makes it even harder.

“… Do you…” Hop sniffles and slowly lets out a breath. “Do you wish… Ash… was your little brother instead of me…?”

….The reaction is instant…

“What?!” Leon jerks back with a gasp, eyes wide and irises small. “Hop… why… how could you even ask that?”

‘How could I not…’ He wanted to say but he just couldn’t. His throat was burning from trying to hold back his tears, especially in front of Leon.

“Hop…” Leon leaned closer and Hop stiffened at the close proximity.

“…Hop…Hoppy talk me… Why…? Why would you ever think that?” Leon asks and Hop’s surprised to hear hurt in his tone along with his worry. “Why would you ask me that?”

Is’t it obvious? Was Leon seriously making him say it?

“I… I uh…”

“Leon?”

Hop flinches as he sees Ash at the top of the stairs. He seriously was impatient, Hop had that same problem too. Actually… Hop saw a lot of himself in Ash…

No wonder Leon loved him over Hop. He was what Hop was but better.

“Ash wait…” Goh follows him as Ash with a worried frown walks over towards the doorway and Hop just wants to curl up and fall in a hole.

Leon’s eyes widen and he suddenly stands. When he turns he walks over to the door before Ash and Goh. Hop faintly notices his brother’s body positions itself in a way that hides him from the two. Hop leans to the side curious and confused why and tries to see all their faces.

“I need to have a moment alone with my brother…” Leon told them both with an apologetic smile. They looked surprised but nodded.

Hop’s jaw dropped as he watched his brother close the door and lock it before they even have a chance to turn around.

“L-Lee… What are you doing that was…”

“I know.” Leon turned around and Hop leaned back further in shock to see his eyes and face so serious. “But right now you need me and I’m not going until we fix this…”

Hop could only stare, feeling a mix of warmth and sick as his brother walked back to his bed and sat down next to him. The new weight made it creak in dismay, the only sound in the heavy room.

“Lee…?” He tried after a moment.

“…I have to fix this…” Leon muttered fiercely, expression matching his tone. Hop was sure that it wasn't towards him.

Hop just sits there in shock, because what was he supposed to do? His brother had the opportunity to leave and he just… closed it? Literally…

Leon suddenly stands and walks in front of him. Hop looks up and he flinches when he sees his brother’s battle face is on.

“When did this start?” Leon demanded. “How did this start?”

Huh… That’s actually a good question…. He’s not sure…

Short answer? Probably when Ash showed up and Leon instantly clicked with him. Long answer?… Ugh Hop didn’t want to think about it. Too complicated with Championhood and their family and his failures…

“Hop talk to me.” Leon pressed, stern yet pleading.

Hop really didn’t want to. He honestly just wanted to just be left alone like he was sure was going to happen. Why prolong it?

“Hop…”

“You like being with him.” Hop sighed, cutting off being scolded.

“Huh?” Leon blinks. “I… well yes I do but how does that-?”

“I mean you really like to be with him. You actually seek him out to be with him!” Hop went on and he cant hold back the sadness in his voice. He sees his brothers eyes widen as he hears it too.

“You spend time with him, you help him, you guide him! You train with him you actually have faith in him!” His voice shakes as it pains him bringing it all up.

“Everything that you’ve done with them… I've been begging to do with you for years.…” Hop choked out in hurt. “I’ve wanted to spend time with you and have adventures with you and just… just be with you!” He sniffles. “I thought you were too busy but not for them! Not for Ash!”

Hop can see the slow realization on his brother’s face and watches as his brother looks dismayed and saddened. His expression becomes filled with guilty sorrow.

“… I didn't think about that…” He admitted softly. “… Hop I… I never meant to hurt you… I just…” He falls silent. He doesn't have an excuse other than that. He simply didn’t think about it.

And Hop hates himself right now because he knows Leon probably didn’t mean to make him feel bad. He knows him, it isn't his fault that he focuses so hard on one thing or another that he gets tunnel vision. Especially if it meant something dear to him. It’s just who Leon was…

A new strong trainer who had the potential for amazing battles and was essentially so charming everyone loved him?

How could Hop ever compete?

“I know…” Hop murmured back. “I know you see a strong trainer, ones with talent and skill and you want to get to know them. You want to be around them… to battle them help them grow…” Hop felt his eyes burn. “I guess that’s kinda part of why it hurts… you never treated me like that… I must be a pretty poor trainer for that to be the case…”

“No…!” Leon murmured. “No Hop you're a great trainer too you-“

The older attempted to cup Hop’s cheek and have him turn around but Hop jerks away from his touch. A stung gasp emits from his brother. Hop’s sure it must be a shock. He never pulled away from Leon, not ever. Hop’s not even sure if anyone ever had. That must be why, his Champion pride must feel a tiny bit of a hit from that.

None of that matters now though….

Anything Leon says wouldn’t be true, none of it could be true. Actions speak louder than words and Leon’s screamed that in the end… Hop was nothing to him. He was nothing compared to Galar, to rivals, to Ash…

“Y-You should just go…” Hop told him, curling away from him with an aching heart. “You’re supposed to go with them and train today. I’m not going to get in the way of that…I refuse.” His face scrunches as he tries to hold down his tears. “Please just… go be with someone you actually care about okay?”

He just wants this conversation to be over. He wants it to be done so Hop can try to move on. Try to bandage up the hurt in his heart losing the one person he had for the longest time foolishly believed cared about him.

For a moment Leon stayed silent. Hop expected to hear his footsteps leave the room, thankful Hop had given him an out. He expects it and he tries to focus on anything else so his heart doesn't have to break as much.

“…How…can I go…?” His brother speaks in a rasp and it has Hop’s mind freeze.

…Why did he sound like that?

Footsteps finally do happen but they don’t go away they step closer. And closer, until Hop can see his brother’s athletic shoes right on sight from where his head was bowed.

“How can I go…. when my little brother thinks I don’t love him… when he thinks that I want someone else in his place in my heart…?”

Hop’s eyes widen at the pain in the man’s voice. That… was not something he was expecting.

He risks looking at him and flinches back. Because Leon looks so heartbroken and Hop hates himself just a little bit more. Leon’s not supposed to have a look like that on his face and Hop had made it happen. He’s not sure how and is more confused about it than anything,

“Don’t… you…?” Hop can't stop himself from saying. Maybe he just needed the encouragement? Have Hop show he understands so he can finally just drop this and go…

“You… you actually like to be with him, to watch his battles…” He ducks his head and curls away more as he sees Leon walk even closer. Personal space never seemed to be a thing in Leon’s eyes… unless he was around his fans sometimes but that was just a safety thing. “… He’s probably everything you ever wanted from a little brother… Even if you won’t admit it…”

Large hands suddenly grab his face and force him to look up all in less than a second. It gives him a little bit of whiplash if he’s being honest. Pained gold eyes mirror his own and Leon looks utterly devastated. That hurts more than his spinning head.

“Never…” Leon breathed. “Not ever…He’s a great trainer, a good kid for sure, but Hop he… he isn't you…”

Hop didn’t understand. Yeah he knew he wasn't him, wasn't that why Leon preferred Ash?

“…Isn’t… isn’t that a good thing?” Hop murmured blinking. “I mean he…” He’s about to go into his spiel again on how Leon clearly prefers the other but the older shakes his head sharply, even giving Hop’s own head a small shake that makes him quiet.

“He isn’t you…” Leon repeated, leaning even closer. There’s something else in his eyes now, nostalgic and aching.

“He isn’t the one I begged and pleaded our Mum for because I wanted a sibling so badly. He isn’t the baby that I held and wouldn't let go of because I was so happy to finally have you in my arms after waiting for you for so long…” His voice breaks and tears fill his eyes as they glaze over. Like he’s seeing those very things right before him in that very moment.

Hop could only stare in shock because… he… he didn’t know any of this. Leon had begged their Mum for a sibling? Leon had… wanted him at one point?

“He… he isn’t the boy I raised and watched grow up that I’m so proud of. He isn’t the boy I look forward to seeing when I come back home more than any other person. He isn’t the boy that I scoop up and hug as much as I can because I’ve missed him so much…” His lips wobble and he gives a shaky breath.

“… He isn't my little brother …he isn't my Hop… You are!”

Leon’s thumbs rub his cheeks and it’s a gentle motion Hop suddenly remembers even with all his boisterous, loud, passionate emotions of who Leon was… he could still be gentle. It’s a side he hasn’t seen in a long time…

“…You… are…” He breathed. “And no trainer, no person or being ever could ever make me wish for someone else… I wouldn’t trade you for anything or anyone in the entire world… the entire universe and then some…”

His hands press his cheeks again smushing them slightly. It’s an affectionate gesture Hop’s mind flashes back to him doing when he’s younger. His older brother cooing and playing with his face as they both giggle loud and bright, before Leon would cuddle him up as much as he could. It’s a memory filled with light and warmth.

It makes it a little easier to believe the words coming out of his brother’s mouth.

From his slightly obstructed view though, Hop could barely make out a something spilling out of his brother’s eyes.

“… I… I love you so much, you mean so much to me Hop.” Leon choked. “You really do…” He lets out a broken, shaky sigh. “But… somewhere along the way I made you think the opposite and…” He clenched his eyes shut and to Hop’s horror, began to tremble. “And …I failed you….”

“N-no!” Hop moves his own hands to Leon’s face. His are a lot smaller. The older’s face dwarfs his hands but he hardly cares. Because Leon. Is. Crying. Crying and he sounds like he’s so hurt and heartbroken and nothing at all like Hop had thought this would all go.

“Y-you didn’t! You’re a great big brother and I love you I…!” His voice dies down as Leon opens his eyes, his now misery filled eyes. Somebody as happy and bright as Leon should never have his eyes look like that. That was Hop’s job…

“I… I-I… Lee you’re amazing…” Hop murmured. “You’re an amazing trainer, an amazing person and you've always been an amazing big brother to me…” Hop’s own voice cracks. “That’s why I always wanted to spend time with you and why when you visit it’s better than any kind of gift you give me. Because of who you are not what you are…Champion or not you’re the most brilliant person in the world to me…”

He sees his brother’s eyes soften and warm. Hop’s surprised when he sees and feels the older leans into his hands, closing his eyes with a soft sigh after. His beard feels prickly and it both pinches and tickles his palms but that doesn’t matter.

“… You’re so amazing that… that I guess I… just don’t feel like I deserve you.” He admitted weakly.

Leon’s eyes snap open wide and he looks ready to speak but Hop shakes his head. He needs to say this so Leon knows it’s not his fault. Anything to make the shining star his brother was be back to being bright and happy again.

“I’m not like you… I… You never lose, I feel like I’ve constantly lost. You’re strong, I'm weak…” He admitted. “I could never keep up with you and your skills. I could never be… loved like you…”

Thumbs rub his cheeks again and gold eyes stare at him sadly. Hop realizes Leon probably didn’t know any of this, mainly because Hop had tried to hide it from him in shame. He looks like he wants to know more about this, but he holds back. Hop’s thankful he isn’t really in the mood to tell him.

“And… and then Ash came along.” He murmured. “And I can see the way you beam and shine when you watch him battle. How you look like you want to jump right in and how… you look proud.” Hop’s voice wavers. “And… and I’ve wanted you to look at me like that for all my life, wanting your attention and for you to be proud of me and he gets it in just a day with you. And… and…”

And it feels so unfair. It really feels unfair and it breaks his heart. He couldn't even compete with other trainers in Galar for Leon’s attention how could he with someone as talented and charismatic as Ash?

“And… he deserves you as a brother not me… You look happier when you’re with him, you want to be with him… I…I just…” Hop can’t hold back the sob because saying all this hurts so much. “Even… e-even if you don't love me anymore, and you love him instead… I just want you to be happy…”

“Hop…” Leon’s voice was pained and aching. The man gives a shuddering breath and Hop hears a choked sob escape him. “My Hop…!”

Hop whimpers as he feels him press his forehead against his in an instant, both of them still clutching each other’s faces even then. Even when they’re both crying, sobbing and this was honest to goodness not at all what Hop thought was going to happen.

He expected tears from himself sure. He’s been upset and heartbroken about this for a while now but Leon though? Never in his life…

…Hop doesn't know how long they sit there. Leon had collapsed to his knees after lunging and pressing their heads together and didn’t seem to want to will himself to stand.

Leon leans back after some time, still gripping his face like Hop find’s himself doing the same…

He stares back into Leon’s heartbroken, shattered eyes. Millions of words, sorrows, regrets, apologies but most of all never-ending love burned in those gold eyes. Like how they glowed in battle, they were striking, intense, piercing into his soul. Very few trainers could handle Leon’s eyes when they were this powerful, and Hop himself found it hard to keep staring back into them. His brother’s eyes only blazed harder when he nearly broke eye contact, forcing all those unsaid words and emotions onto him and keep him from looking away.

It’s a lot… it’s so much… too much, but it’s Leon so he’ll handle it as well as he can if his brother needs him to.

Hop knows his gaze is nothing like the older’s but even under that burning intensity Hop could see him drinking in every detail. Searching and searching for Hop’s eyes for his emotions and feelings… Wanting to know, wanting to see and understand. Wanting to do better…

Whatever he finds makes those powerful orbs look even more broken and anguished… Only for Leon’s eyes with all the power of a g-max fire blaze with one emotion. Love…Pure brotherly love... for him.

Hop can’t see his own gaze of course, but he feels like his mirrors the other’s.

They didn’t need to say anything else. They don’t need to. Their words and eyes say it all. For Hop realizing that Leon may truly do love him and for Leon learning that Hop had believed in the opposite.

It’s a sad, broken thing that also doesn’t leave Leon’s eyes and Hop has a feeling even with all the apologies in the world he can never make up for breaking his brother’s heart like he has today.

Leon doesn't break eye contact as he shifts and crawls onto the bed. Hop stares back weakly because he partly wants to, but those powerful eyes won’t ease their hold, much like Leon’s hand’s haven’t either.

A tiny, little bit of Hop that didn’t believe any of this was happening despite it all vaguely wonders if he could make a break for it. Run away because if he does believe this and it not be true the pain would only be worse.

Leon eyes suddenly blaze fiercer and his hands gripping his face tighten. And Hop feels that small part of him shaken to the core because Leon’s entire face is so hard and serious, so powerful and so, so determined…Hop thinks if he even dared try Leon would stop him. Even if he managed to somehow get out of the house and down the road, even if he managed to go into another town, heck another region, Leon would hunt him down and drag him back.

The eyes in front of him scream thier confirmation to him. Leon won’t ever let him go, especially if Hop dare tried. It’s passionate and desperate and it makes him drop the idea all together.

Desperate was never an emotion Hop thought’d he’d see but it seemed his brother was surprising him constantly today.

The stare lasts for another whole minute before Leon slowly starts pulling Hop towards him.

Hop follows along in shock as the man guides his head to his chest. Once there a hand presses him to stay against it and Hop suddenly really realizes just how big his brother was now compared to him. Compared to the last time he had hugged him… Was it really that long ago?

Leon shifts him around until Hop is tucked into his lap securely, his legs tucked into his chest. He’s completely cradled and enveloped by the man. He feels so incredibly small in his hold. He’s not sure if it’s from the fact of the larger size difference now compared to what Hop remembered last or the fact that Hop felt like a tiny kid again being snuggled up by him after having a good cry.

Leon doesn’t say anything. Instead he curls over and around him, his form just as huge as his title and might. He squeezes Hop tight to his broad chest and as time goes by he can feel those powerful arms hug him closer to the body that was doing everything it could to keep him there. To act like a shelter, a blanket, a shield.

Leon’s legs soon shift up onto the bed and tuck Hop even further into his brother’s body. He’s completely hidden from the world and he can't even really see beyond the fierce embrace, past the arms and legs or long purple locks that cover him. He’s completely engulfed in the overwhelming hug with no way of getting out, and Hop honestly doesn’t really want to.

Hop closes his eyes to enjoy the hold. It feels warm and strong and safe and… like he was loved. He hasn’t felt that in a while…

A sudden car horn honk makes him jump, and Leon nestles him closer gently shushing him. Hop can hear the apologetic shouts of the others outside and he suddenly remembers they weren't alone here.

He allows himself to enjoy his comfortable spot just a bit longer before he wills himself to try and get out of it. The moment he tries to scoot away Leon’s legs raise up more making Hop slide back his lap and against his body again.

“You should go.” Hop insisted softly after a moment. “You promised them you’d take them training.”

As much as Hop wanted to stay in Leon’s arms, squished tight to his chest and snuggled all day… He also didn’t want to be selfish. You learn early on having a brother as beloved as Leon that you have to share.

Leon squeezes him tighter. “… Come with us….” He murmurs in what sounds like a mix of a demand and a plea. Hop chuckles weakly because gosh he’d really love to and normally if Leon asked anything from him Hop would do it but…

“Thanks but… n-no you need to focus on them. I’m fine now…”

Besides Hop feels like it would be way too awkward for him to be around those two right now. Not after all this… They deserved to have their time with Leon not be ruined. He already ruined it enough for them thanks to all this.

Leon presses his chin against Hop’s head and lets out a tiny sad sound. Hop bites his lip to hold down a smile because his brother straight up sounds akin to their family Purrloin if it was refused a lap to snuggle in rather than a powerful grown man. And all over Hop turning down going with him on a trip… It's endearing and heartwarming.

“… Will you stay here?” Leon pressed, the plea not leaving his voice as the demand shrivels slightly. Hop blinked. He hadn’t really planned on it. Since the rest of their family wasn't here Hop wouldn’t mind he supposed.

“I mean… if you want…”

“Yes…” Leon squeezed him tighter instantly. “Stay here until I come back…. I really want to spend time with my Hop…” He pressed his face into his hair. “It’s been too long…”

Hearing that made Hop’s heart leap with joy, but he also worried some.

“Lee… you don’t need to do that. I’m okay really…”

Leon didn't need to feel guilty and spend time with him over this. Especially since he was so busy.

Hop blinks as his brother slowly pulls back and once again holds his face. The look on his face and his eyes screamed warmth, adoration and love.

“I want to…” He pressed a kiss to his head and Hop closed his eyes to happily drink in the affection. The last of the tension finally seems to dissipate the room and both of them can bask in the fact they haven’t just lost someone so dear to them. It makes everything feel warm and light. Even more so as Hop could feel his brother’s lips twitch up higher.

“…And you better be ready… because when I come back you’re going to get the biggest, tightest, most Gigantimaxed hug of your life!” Leon added against his head.

Hop couldn't hold back the childish giggle of glee. He loved Leon’s hugs, he always did and always would. “Really?”

Leon giggled right back and it’s wonderful to hear. It’s deep and bassey and filled with joy. It’s all Lee, “Ahahaha! Yes! Get prepared to be absolutely, positively squashed with love because your big brother is going to give you all of it!”

To emphasize his point he smushed his cheeks and Hop giggled even harder. Leon pressed another kiss right between his eyes, letting it linger there with a happy hum before he finally pulled away. His eyes were soft and there was a longing in his expression. It turns into determined playfulness and Hop was suddenly hugged back to his chest again.

Hop blinked in surprise, only to squeak as he was suddenly being crushed to his brother in a big hug. The older’s muscles even were beginning to bulge from the effort, showing he really was putting his heart into it.

“Mm-mmmmm—mmmmm-mph!” Leon grunted happily as he squeezed him. When he finally did ease the hold, Hop took a greedy gulp of air he hadn't even realized he had lost from it. His brother let out a gleeful bellowing laugh that was perhaps the happiest he’s ever heard it.

“Hahahaha!… Haaaaaa... Oh I’ve really missed doing that!” Leon sighed blissfully, practically glowing with contentment and joy. “It’s going to be another thing happening more too, along with us spending time together.”

Hop’s eyes widened. Did he mean that? They were really going to spend more time together? He even sounded excited about it…

Leon’s hand lay on his head and ruffled it wildly. “Consider what I just gave you just a tiny taste of what you’re getting when I come back!” He chuckled. “Because it’s going to be even bigger than that!”

“Huh?!” Hop’s jaw dropped.

Leon ’s smile widens “You know your big brother means what he says when he makes a promise…If I say you’re getting squashed, you’re going to be squashed.…” His smile and expression sharpens with determination of that in a battle, but the brotherly love still burns on his face and eyes “So much so you’re not ever going to doubt how much I love you ever again…”

Knowing Leon he 100% meant that, especially with the eager sparkle in his eyes like he’d find in a battle. Instead this battle was to prove how much he loved him and cared and if it really was as much as Leon was stating…

…Uh oh…

Despite the rather aggressive affectionate promise, Hop found himself looking forward to it too. So what if his brother’s hugs could make a Bewear jealous, they were Leon’s hugs and Hop loved them. Everything right now told him his brother loved giving them just as much if not more than Hop receive them.

Still… Hop knows his brother needs to go. He’s not sure how long they’ve been here but Leon needed to get going while the sunlight was out perfect for training. Same for Ash and Goh…

Yet as Hop begins to shuffle out of his brother’s lap he finds it increasingly hard to. He feels so safe and at home here. As he manages to scoot Hop can see from the corner of his eye his brother reaching after him, feel his fingers graze him as Hop slid out of his lap.

Leon wanted to pull him back into his arms… ? It makes it a little easer to not allow that to happen seeing his brother want him there as much as Hop wanted to stay there. He keeps that in mind as Leon finally stands and sighs with a twinge of sadness.

As Hop followed his brother downstairs, he could hear him happily hum a light tune. He seemed completely content and at peace about the rest of the day. It was a wonderful sight to see. Them having their shared breakdown may have helped them both, but Hop hoped he never ever had to see Leon look at him so sad in his entire life.

“Hi Leon!”

“Hey!”

They exit the home and Hop watches the joy on the two boy’s faces seeing his brother. Ash’s in particular. It doesn't make his heart ache and his insides twist with sadness this time though.

Hop watches how yes Leon treats him kindly with a smile and other ways… he doesn't treat him how he just treated Hop.

There’s no hair ruffle or hug. There’s a light playfulness but it’s in a way that he would give a rival, not in the way he had just gazed at Hop moments ago. Filled with warmth and affection that ran so deep it was almost overwhelming and…

and…

… wow… Leon really did love him didn’t he?

He feels kind of stupid now ever doubting it, but maybe it had been a good thing he had. Because here he was feeling better than he had in months. He was even closer to his brother, with a promise of them not only spending more time together but Leon determined to never allow him to doubt his love and care for him ever again.

… It felt nice.

It doesn't take long for the Charizard car to be packed and ready to go. Hop feels Sonia stand by his side and he can see by the warm look in her green teal eyes as they flicked between Hop and his brother. He really needed to thank her for this, she had been the one to contact Leon in the first place.

“Okay! I think that’s just about everything-Oh!” Leon perked. “Hang on!”

He twirled and jogged back to them. Hop quickly stepped aside so his brother could get in the house easier. While he did do that, as he jogged back to the entrance way with what looked to be a whole bunch of snacks the older then paused by his side.

Hop blinked up at him as Leon suddenly looked down with a big playful grin.

A thick arm is thrown around him and suddenly Hop finds himself held against his brother once more, hidden from the world thanks to his cape.

“Positively… Squashed~…” Leon teased the reminder of what to come as he squeezes him tighter. His brother let out a chuckle as Hop’s eyes widened in surprise from the sudden cuddle.

“Oh, I can’t wait!” Leon murmured gleefully and pressed a kiss onto his head. “Love you Hoppy.”

Leon didn’t let go of his hold and Hop realizes he was waiting for the confirmation back.

“Love you too Lee…” He murmured with a smile of his own. Leon positively beams and his eyes sparkled with joy. He almost looks like a kid himself…

Another kiss presses onto Hop’s head, longer than the last before he finally lets him go.

As Leon walks back to the car with snacks on hand Hop can sense Sonia stare at him.

“What was that about?” She asked chuckling. Hop let out a weak laugh.

“You know how Lee takes any battle with the mission to totally overwhelm and crush his opponent?” At her nod he laughs even weaker. “I… think he’s channeling that into his brotherly love for me…”

No, there was no thinking, he absolutely knew that happened. He saw that eager glimmer that showed up during battles. Hop had finally gotten that look from his brother… just not the way he thought he ever would.

Sonia stares at him for a moment before a giggle escapes her. “Yep that sounds like Leon alright.”

“You knew that was going to happen?” Hop looked at her in surprise.

“Well, of course that's who your brother is Hop! Honestly surprised it took this long…” She tapped her chin. “No matter, looks like you have no reason to doubt Leon cares about you now eh?”

“Yeah…” Hop murmured and paused. “Sonia…”

“Hm?”

“… I’m doomed aren’t I?”

Sonia hummed. “Considering the factors of how much he loves you and how much you mean to him, multiply with his affectionate, passionate and competitive natures…” She lets out a chuckle. “To put it simply… yes.”

Hop groaned dramatically making her giggle. He could feel her pat his back in a mocking comfort way. He wasn’t in any real danger or worry he knew, but still she wasn’t helping.

Despite that, he couldn't help but feel… really happy.

Okay so maybe his relationship with Leon wasn't like how it was with Ash, but Hop found he could live with it. Ash was Ash and Hop was Hop.

Leon’s relationship with Ash wasn’t the same as Hop’s with him and for once… Hop liked it.

Maybe one day he’d get that same look of excitement of battling Hop. Maybe one day Hop could be seen as a rival to his brother as well…

But for now he was Leon’s little brother, his Hop, and he always would be. As long as he had that, Hop would be okay.

“Oi! Sonia!” Leon’s call pulls Hop from his thoughts to see his brother leaning out the driver’s side of the car window.

“You make sure Hop stays here! I’m coming back after training!” The man said, light laughter in his voice. Sonia rolled her eyes affectionately and Hop laughed weakly.

“Do we need to get a map so you don't get lost?” Ash asked with a smile and raised brow. Leon lets out a snort and chuckles.

“Very cheeky, but no…” Hop freezes as his brother’s eyes lock into his. They were as warm as his smile.

“No matter where I am I always find my brother when I search for him. I never get lost when my destination is him…”

“He’s not wrong you know.” Sonia murmured to him with a smile. “Somehow you’re the exception.”

Hop blinked before weakly smiling back to his brother, his heart feeling warm.

“Really?” Ash leaned over smiling wider. “If that’s the case we need Hop to be waiting for us whenever we need to go more often when we do this sort of thing! Then we don't get lost as much and we can even all train together after!”

Leon looked back to him and smiled so bright it was blinding. “That’s a brilliant idea Ash!”

Hop’s eyes widened as they all excitedly began talking about such plans, and he feels his heart warm even more.

They wanted him around too? Huh… That actually sounded nice.

As they finally leave, waving and saying their goodbyes Hop sees Leon’s warm gaze tell him a silent vow that things were going to be different, be better. That Leon truly did love him…

It’s a fact Hop found easy to believe.