Hard Enough Chapter 12: Date Distraction

It wasnt my alarm the next day that woke up but rather the flash of a teleport. Sabrina? I said groggily.

Bro she paused as her face went red, even as her eyes darted down and then back up before dipping down once more. I pulled the sheets up feeling oddly exposed. Sabrina twitched before turning her head. Ill give you another ten minutes. I shall order you breakfast.

Juice and tea! No coffee for ! I called out to her back as she walked into the lounge of the hotel room Id taken for my stay. It wasnt quite the penthouse but it was still more than enough room for , and a few of my mid-sized pokemon if I desired.

I smacked my lips and lay back in bed. Id allotted myself another hour of sleep and planned to My waking mind prodded . I really wanted to ignore it but it was operating on a level of experience with little siblings. It was like having an all too quiet house with little children in it. Or perhaps it was the prodding reminder that I should be doing sothing. Reacting in so way. Like I had failed to smile at Suzie or pat Sabrina on the head and offer her a spot next to

I sat up. Sabrina was in my hotel room. I burst out of bed and cursed as the sheets snagged. I fell in a tangle before shooting back up to jump to the doorway where Sabrina was ordering breakfast. Urgh damn it, I sighed as I ran a hand over my face.

I fully expected that the bellhop would sell the story that a woman visited my room and ordered breakfast to the news before they even gave said breakfast. Sabrina tilted her head, unaware of what shed unleashed and perhaps, in a way, unable to understand. Her eyes raked over my form once more and I recalled how shed earlier checked out.

Part of wanted to really perk up at having a beauty like Sabrina checking out while I only wore shorts. I turned away cursing my hormonal body. Im going to have a shower! A cold one I ntally added to myself... I felt a prodding of mory and sighed. Just ask them to leave it at the door please?

I can do that. I have also ordered my own breakfast.

I waved at her, the gossip would already be out. Instead of worrying about it, I slipped into the shower in an attempt to get my mind up to speed for the rest of the day. At the very least, it was breakfast with my ex.

Sotis I really cursed past s ideas and decisions. I could only bla hormones and lack of foresight when Id agreed to be her boyfriend years ago. Shed been so innocent in her reasoning that I hadnt seen the harm. Id tried to be innocent about it, but a mature mind often led to different thoughts than that of a child. Id been forced to discover the difficulty that ca with having Sabrina as your girlfriend due to this.

I still cringed at having to explain what holding hands and kisses ant.

Then again, this was sothing that I could place at the seemingly societal issues of poor parents. Or maybe I was projecting my own issues with Sabrinas admittedly lesser issues with her mother still being around, but being terrified of her when we first t? Her dad giving her space to sort things out hadnt really helped, but then again it would have been hard to interact with her being able to read your mind if she wanted. Shed intimidated most people until I ca along.

I switched the shower off and chose so normal clothes to greet the day. I entered the lounge to find the breakfast that Sabrina had ordered floating towards a table where said woman was seated.

Anyone out there? I claid a seat across from her with the small table between us.

No, they were lurking down the hallway hoping to film . I made them sneeze when I took our breakfast.

Good, thats good I suppose. I wasnt really sure how to tell her that might have made it worse. I wasnt sure Id understand their reactions and couldnt really account for it, so I instead pushed it aside for future Brock to worry about. Food first. Between bites of the al, I looked up to find her own al untouched. What brings you over? I asked, deciding to be direct with her. She always seed to react best to direct questions.

I was concerned you might have been freaking out after yesterdays events.

Huh. I took a sip of my juice and made a face at the pulp to water ratio the hotel used. Thanks but I'm actually feeling fine. If anything, it feels like a weight has been taken off my shoulders. Just getting to throw it in his face like that. I grinned as I recalled the way his eyes had widened. Another sip, another grimace. Ill probably freak out a little before the match but I plan to treat it like any other match at a tournant. I looked around the room. Id probably still need to find so form of distraction, however. I pointedly did not look towards her as I thought of ways to stay out of trouble and distract myself.

That is good. If you need, I can be there for you, Sabrina said earnestly.

I nodded and considered asking her to help with so PG distractions, before also considering who it was talking to .

For all that she appreciated being direct, she sotis ca at things like a hopped-up Pikachu or seed to overthink things to such a degree that she actually looked slothful in her reaction, or she suddenly appeared next to you like her psychic types were known to do. Sabrina, you know were no longer dating, correct?

Sabrina nodded slowly. Yes, your reasoning was accepted at the ti.

I relaxed before feeling a niggle over what shed just said. I was about to question her further, but a knock on the door made glance there before looking back at Sabrina. She glared at the door before clicking her tongue and teleporting away. I stared at the spot shed vanished from before understanding what it ant

Okay, so theyre important enough that youre saying I cant ignore them eh? I stood and walked to the door, opening it to reveal a hotel bellhop that looked past , gaining a glare from , before I noticed the other people with them.

Erika? I stared at her in surprise. We didnt really know each other, so for her to seek out raised so questions.

The small woman smiled up at . Despite it being early in the morning, she was wearing a formal kimono that gave her the traditional beauty look she was famous for. It was immaculately styled and really worked for her. In her hands was a towering bento box that I was more used to seeing in manga.

Annnnnnd ! Drawled another voice that I was very familiar with. I looked up from the smaller grass specialist to see the Electric Gym Leader looming to the side with a grin. Howdy Brock!

Hello Surge, I said with a sort of fond exasperation you only get when you realise you have a friend that is way higher energy than you were. But simply shutting the door would result in sothing that was way, way, more energy-consuming than just relaxing into things until you needed to fight against the flow. I looked back at Erika who I wasnt as familiar with, beyond the basic interactions over general check-ins with other Gym leaders during annual etings.

etings that were, typically, a simple conference call with everyone reporting how the circuit was going for them. Also, sothing that usually was done quickly with little ti for actual interaction. Gym Leaders were busy people after all.

Hello, Brock! She rushed to say while bowing only to stop as her bento box tipped precariously. I ca for the conference, but when I heard about your challenge to Lance I She paused for a mont to think about what she was going to say before continuing, I thought I better co and talk to see how youre doing! She offered a smile but when I rely raised an eyebrow at her, she hurried to continue, As a fellow Kanto gym leader, that is! She rushed to add.

Heh! Kanto represent! Thatll make at least four gyms united against Johto pricks! said Surge with a pump of his fist.

Erika gasped. What?! No Thats not what Im here for at all! She honestly appeared a little sickened by the idea.

Surge searched her expression for a mont before waving it off. Eh, too, don't worry about it! He gave a wide, easy smile to show he ant no harm but Erika didnt seem to know what to say. I remained standing in the doorway watching the byplay with a raised eyebrow.

Sooooo you both ca to check in on ? I said, to move things along.

Yup! Erika was interested in getting to know you. He waggled his eyebrows at and I glanced at Erika who had stiffened. Surge huffed and continued, So I brought her along. Surge walked past and into the room. Im gonna order in so food! Erika! You want anything? Surge started making himself so much at ho, he had already lifted the phone and popped open his signature Raichu to claim a chair.

She shifted back and forth, eyes sliding from to Surge. She proffered up the towering bento box. May I, Brock?

I sighed and stepped to the side, Sure, sure, co on in. I looked to Surge who sprawled onto the couch, his huge fra taking up most of the space.

I dont an to impose? Erika said, still glancing from to Surge.

I was just about to have breakfast. I gestured in and she happily trundled into the room. She set her bento box down on the table and looked over my al.

Oh you ordered a lot, you must be hungry? She asked. I glanced at the second plate and noted that the bacon and eggs had been arranged into a smiley face that made chuckle.

Growing lad! Growing appetite! He then gave a wink that garnered a flat stare from . I looked back to Erika before returning to Surge. What on earth was he doing?

Erika gave a confused glance before I waved her off, an excuse coming easily to my lips. Actually, its just that Im used to eating with my family around and needing more food than just a al for myself.

Ah! Of course! She chirped, happy to accept what I had said at face value.

Would you like to have so of it? Manners drilled into from a previous life warred as they considered the issue of offering what had been Sabrinas food to another. But she had left, hadnt she? I looked around surreptitiously but Erika caught glancing around as she sat.

Is sothing the matter? Surge narrowed his eyes before giving the room a sharp look over. I even saw his nose twitch as though he was sniffing quietly. Raichu stood and started sniffing the air, making ntally curse at Surge for bringing it out.

Nope! Just thought I left one of my pokemon out but they must have put themselves back last night while I slept. I waved at the food. Lets eat, I'm starving! With food in my mouth, Id even have a reason not to talk so much and not appear so odd. I threw myself into Surges side and pushed him to one side.

He didnt accept that without a fight though and tried to eject from the chair. I now knew what he was up to though and was expecting him to use his weight only for my Rock energy to co to the fore and make way too tough to handle. He huffed and leaned back, slightly dejected that he couldnt make sit in the other chair that happened to be next to Erika.

I pointedly didnt offer him any of the food I had. But it didnt take long for the hotel to bring up so food for him along with a small tray to pick from that Erika selectively partook from. While waiting, Surge decided to take up the slack. The man apparently abhorred silence.

So! I got a call up from one of my girls and she was all keen to et up only she also brought along this here cutey! He gestured towards Erika who looked slightly grossed out from having a man twice her age call her cutey. I gave Surge a look to calm it down which didnt seem very effective.

So I decided Id bring her along! I was always gonna co check in on you of course Brock! And I thought, well, twos friendship but threes almost a party! I sighed at him.

Thank you for that thoughtful gesture Surge but Im fine.

Heh! Fine he says! Nah Brock, youve got a huge match coming up! No way youve not got the jitters.

I dont, I said firmly. One of the worst things you could do was think about how nervous you were supposed to be before a match. I just had to work through my own thods to stay calm. Which was usually just kicking back and watching so cody. Surge nodded seriously before winking at Erika dramatically.

I can see you doing that, I said seriously, pointing to his eyes.

Youre supposed to! He said without any sha.

Erika giggled at our back and forth. Her laugh was like the tinkling of a little bell. You two are obviously good friends.

Oh heck yeah! Let tell you of the first ti I t little boy Brock here! Crowed Surge.

Oh Darkrai take now, I said pleadingly. I glanced towards the bedroom. If I thought hard enough and pushed as much Dark energy out as possible, could Sabrina save ? Sadly that wasnt an option, even if she was still lingering nearby. Surge alone would see her closing off due to being shy. She wouldnt co out with Erika here as soone she wasnt used to.

As much as it wasnt her fault, I was starting to feel like I should have just ignored Sabrina, well-intentioned as she had been, and stayed in bed.

Thankfully it didnt take long for to start digging into his own plate, and with food in hand Surge shut up sowhat.

Erika ate with small nibbling bites while I cut through chunks of my breakfast before pausing to enjoy a drink. I was thankful I had already finished up my al which helped cut him off when he made too ridiculous a claim. Please, I was not at all worried about facing you! Most of my team was Rock or Ground pokemon at the ti!

Surge sniffed and waved away the comnt. I huffed before turning to Erika. Dont mind Surge, he loves working stories for everything theyre worth And then so.

Surge raised a hand before shrugging and accepting the accuracy of that statent. Erika giggled at that before returning to her al.

When they were done with their food, I settled back and pulled a leg into my lap. It was ti to address the Donphan in the room. Sooooo I drew it out, Was there sothing you wanted to talk about?

Surge rely shrugged. I was just coming over to hang out while I had so free ti. I accepted that before looking at Erika.

Erika fidgetted at the attention, glancing towards the bento box. I also thought I might show my own support, in a way? If youd like, I prepared a al for you to eat later, but I am ashad to say I made too much?

Yeah Brock, she made up sothing for you to eat! He nudged in a friendly way that made my face twitch a little. The implication he was attempting was not lost on but I wasnt going to push for that. Id gone to university and dated in my past life, I knew how such things worked and had more than enough self-confidence in myself that I didnt need to chase every girl that showed so kindness.

Thanks for that Erika, I said while blocking Surges nudges. I appreciate it. I dont really get many ho-cooked als that arent burnt or just rice and so fish if I dont make it myself. It was both touching and slightly depressing to be reminded of that fact. Surge paused for a mont before deciding to settle down for the mont.

Oh! I didnt an to make you sad! Her hands waved back and forth causing her sleeves to flap like a pidgey.

I waved it off. No, no, its good. Just caught by surprise, is all.

Surge sniffed, cutting off her response. Daww! You cute kids! Surge gave us both fond looks before nudging . Say Brock, can I give you a word real quick-like?

I was pretty sure about what he was going to say. Im sure I dont Surge leaned forward to loom over , a hand on my shoulder. Brock, quick chat. He looked over and waved his hand to Erika. Please dont go anywhere! Well be right back!

This ti I let him pull up. He led to the bedroom before rounding on as soon as the door clicked shut. Alright real talk bro, you should sleep with Erika. I know you had sothing with Sabrina. Thats cool, shes hot, and its cute, but Sabrina is also very scary. You need soone to keep you loose and ready for a fight against the champ. Best way to do this is to sleep with soone!

I nodded at him before putting my hands together. Surge, thanks for looking out for but thats super inappropriate. I barely know her.

Surge pinched the bridge of his nose. Brock, youre young, shes young, its not supposed to be a Professorship thesis youre working out alright? Its simple, guy ets girl. Guy charms girl and offers to let her into his tent for warmth and all that good stuff and they walk out in the morning after having a good night or day of it!

Surge Im not Brock listen to , I fought in the war. You need to be in your best form. Dont go into sothing with any tension. I had troops that didnt take leave when they could and they went off the rails. Youre practically your familys parent No, that's wrong. Youre the dad with all the kids but you aint had any of the fun in making them! Youre wound too tight! Got too much on your plate. Live a little! You need to blow so sparks, youll fight better I guarantee it!

I found I didnt really have anything to say regarding that. Id always known about Surge fighting in the war between pretty much everyone but to hear him talk of his own past like that wasnt sothing I was ready for. I almost wanted to step back into the room and see what in Kanto Surge was talking about. He seed to think all you had to do was throw two people together and it was done. Erika, in the whole thirty minutes wed actually talked, hadn't co across that way at all. I almost wanted to ask if we were talking about the sa woman. I licked my lips and swallowed my words before coughing. I think Im good

He grunted and clicked his tongue. Alright, I get it. Youre shy. Listen, I can be a wingman for you, it's all good. Surge gave a look before pointing at my bed. But if I find you flub it he shook his head mockingly. Dont make go find a working girl I stared at him in wonder. How did his mind work? I really couldnt help but wonder sotis. He gave a stern look, Or a riled up Jynx to slip in later! He flicked two fingers from to himself. Ill do it.

Is that a threat or Was he threatening with what he thought would be a good ti? I was slightly worried hed send in a Jynx tonight regardless.

He just flicked his fingers at again before leading the way back out into the loungeroom. Hey! Sorry bout that had to have so guy chat about tomorrow. He then made a show of looking toward the clock. Oh, ghost types! Is that the ti? Damn, this is gonna make it tough.

Erika tilted her head. Make what tough? She glanced between myself and Surge, obviously thinking sothing else had gone on in the bedroom. I ntally marked her down as having good instincts.

Surge rounded on and tsked while shaking his head. Brock, you know youre going on out to fight against Lance tomorrow right?

I blinked at the strange segway. Yes? Im aware of that I said

You realise youre going to appear on international television, right?

Yeeeessss, I said, sensing a trap in his words but unsure where it would co from.

Youre going to represent your nation? I raised an unimpressed look at him, Your city? I grimaced slightly, Your family? I straightened up and knew he had right where he wanted as sothing sparked in his eyes.

Yeah I am, I said much more firmly. Erika made a sound of understanding that had glancing at her before snapping back to Surge.

Brock. I cant let you go out there looking like just another hiker that fell off a mountain and bumbled his way onto the Indigo Plateau!

I stared at him. You are worried about my look? I said incredulously. Pointedly looking at his rumpled fatigues.

Hey! This is military issue from the old days and the uniform of my unit! Its tiless! He said defensively. He then twisted his hand towards Erika on the other side of the table, a grin stretching across his face. Thankfully, we just so happen to have a womans perspective.

Erika gave us a wide-eyed look that made think she wanted to peer behind the couch in case soone else was standing behind herself. She coughed and straightened up. If you will have , I could assist?

Nice! Itll be aweso, just us Gym Leaders hanging out! Surge crowed.

A thump of sothing falling over in my bedroom had everyone glancing towards the door. Raichu sat up and sniffed the air once again.

I sighed and pinched my brow, knowing who had been listening in.

It seed I was not going to escape complications in my future. Perfect. Had Sabrina still been back there when Surge and Id gone to the bedroom or had she teleported out? I really hoped it was the latter. Shed have questions if it was the forr. I wasnt sure how future would handle that issue.

Future was supposed to only have to deal with the imdiate problem of beating the Champion like a drum. Sohow, beating up a Dragonmaster for dissing my gym and making my family sad sounded easy. Especially when navigating Surges attempts to help.

When should we go? Erika asked obliviously.

Surge stood, Lets go now!

I rely held in a groan. Damn high energy people. Surge was probably a natural morning person.

Try this! was all the warning I got as another three shirts were flung over the top of the dressing room to fall on my head.

I think thats enough! I said but got no reply. I sighed and tried on another shirt, trying to envisage how that would go with so of the pants I had been practically ordered to buy. I had kept to the more ruggedised look with my clothing selections. Lots of pocket space with room to move.

Erika had attempted to drag into a more formal shop, but Id refused and then had to hold strong against her rather adorable pout. Sadly for her, I was used to better pouts from smaller children almost daily. My resolve had held strong. This only seed to make her work harder at shops that I did express interest in.

Thankfully shed been on my side when wed walked past a military outlet. Surge had been like a child denied candy at not getting to dress up in fatigues. He had made Erika pause with the promise of how good I might look suited up with formal army dress. Id had to shout that offer down while power walking to the next shop.

I looked at the sky blue shirt in my hands before shaking my head. I dont think blue is really my colour!

Can I see? I shrugged and walked out to show her. Erika looked over with one of the shops attendants that by now had cash symbols for eyes. They both shook their heads before the attendant pointed to another rack. More earthly tones? Browns, greys, greens, burnt oranges or even browns? Surge was off in another corner tangling with another clerk. I could see he was arguing over belts and pouches of all things.

Erika seed to agree with the clerks assessnt and set off as I handed back the previous load.

I sat and exhaled, feeling oddly tired from the task that wasnt all that arduous. A soft weight was dropped on my head and I blinked as another voice spoke. Try this.

Sabrina? I said before watching her step around a clothing rack to vanish. I glanced down at what shed dropped in my hands. It was actually a pretty good combination. A darker undershirt that would be form-fitting and even offered to wick away sweat when I was working out. Then on top was a thinly woven burnt orange jumper. In fact, I seed to recall a version of Brock wearing this look.

I took it to the changing room and tried it on. It looked really good on . I stepped out in ti to halt Erika in her tracks. Oh? You found sothing you wanted She eyed it critically, Thats very nice actually?

Oh! A black undershirt! We have a range of those that also co in The attendant imdiately rambled but when they were done I tugged the jumper and nodded. Two of these for and another black and green forest undershirt please.

Erika stepped forward. You might look better with longer hair for this look. Ever thought of growing it out? She gently tugged my hair before blushing. Sorry! I usually do this with the girls in my gym!

I waved it off, not bothered by the casual touch. I was used to not having a personal space due to my family.

No, I hadnt thought of growing out my hair before. I looked into the mirror and found I liked what I imagined. This outfit wasnt as practical for with fewer pockets than my usual tactical vest I wore over a plain shirt, but for style, it was a clear winner. It made it funnier that it was Sabrina who was sneaking in her selection.

A few raised voices from the shop's entrance made grimace as I realised that word had gotten around about my appearance. I collected up a few other shirts and singlets I had liked before placing them on the counter. Sadly the counter had a clear line of sight to the shop front and vice versa. The reporters didnt even bother waiting, they rely stord into the shop. A few racks were pushed out of the way to make way to .

Brock! Brock! Gym Leader Quiet down! I shouted over the top of the reporters. You! Fix that display you knocked over! All of you, go back outside if youre not shopping! Im not running off, Im just shopping. Wait outside for to finish up. I turned back to the attendant that was now shooting a thankful look.

Ah, I forgot to apply your discount Gym Leader Brock. Your total now cos to I smiled and winked at the attendant. Knowing full well that no discount had actually been available. I nodded in farewell then glanced at Erika.

You going to be alright dealing with this group? Ill need to handle them before we can continue. I then looked around to find Surge approaching with his own purchases.

Im fine staying with you. Im a Gym Leader as well, and while I dont get this much attention normally, I have handled the press before, Erika said while pumping her fists seriously.

Surge are you going to Surge shook his head as he approached. Sorry I got a call that I need to attend to straight away. He gave a serious look before turning to Erika.

Hey, been great hanging out. Looks like I can leave Brock in your hands. He might not be showing it but I know hes freaking out. Dont listen to him claiming hes fine, alright. Thats BS. What he actually ans is that he is frenetic, insecure, neurotic, and emotional.

He clapped a hand on my shoulder to shut up before I could speak. This ti I wasnt ready for it and I buckled slightly, which stopped from getting a word in. You cute kids enjoy your lunch together! He then handed back Erika her giant tiered lunch.

While Erika was too short to see it, I noted the wrappers on the top tier. What happened to the food?

Surge coughed sheepishly when Erika glared at him. Got hungry carrying it around? Anyway I got gym duties to see to so Ill leave you young ones to enjoy yourselves! He nodded at Erika and turned to . He gave a wink that made my eye twitch. This guy!

He got out and when the reporters tried to close on him he gave them a stern look. No comnt! I have a gym ergency! Out of the way!

I rubbed my forehead with exasperation. With Surge gone, I just knew what people were going to assu with and Erika being spotted together in the mall. I gave Erika another look. Still up for this? I said, gesturing towards the prowling reporters.

She swallowed before nodding stoically. I drew in a breath before nodding. I turned back and squared my shoulders before walking to the front of the shops, readying myself for another mini-press conference. I already knew what the first question was going to be.

Gym Leader Brock, are you and Gym Leader Erika on a date?

Called it.

Id denied the insinuation between myself and Erika, not that it would stop the tabloids from printing their own theories on what wed been up to. I just knew they were going to ignore that wed been chaperoned by Surge for all intents and purposes. Other questions had flown, which were expected, such as my chances against the Champion. And others such as what my lineup would be, which I refused to answer. Theyd repeatedly asked , in various ways, throughout the ordeal If I was sure this wasnt a date I was on. The more they asked for it, the more theyd likely get to print on it was my assumption.

Id spotted Celia during this and nodded at her, shed brightened up and given a huge wave. Shed initially started to approach only to balk when she registered all the reporters and caras surrounding . That had caused her to about-face with huge eyes. That had gotten a chuckle out of which Id then had to explain to the reporters.

When Id ended the impromptu interview, Id stepped on one of the landmines I really should have avoided. Id announced I was going to go have lunch. Erika had then poured fuel on the fire by collecting her towering bento box. That had rely solidified my previous thoughts on this whole day. That it was too complicated to be worth getting out of bed.

When wed gotten away from the reporters and found a quiet spot. Erika had the bento box that wed brought along with us down and began to lay out the various tiers. Steam wafted off offering the scents of well cooked and spiced curries with small dividers of rice. I could see multiple simple sushi dishes made up that made my mouth want to water. Erika had so serious skills in the kitchen if shed cooked all of this herself. I was finding myself rather impressed with how Erika had rolled with the rather tumultuous day.

Erika saw my gaze on the food and seed happy. She went about setting up a tasting tray as I got to lay there. Sadly I couldnt enjoy it without my traitorous mind supplying all the ways today could work out. I found myself less than pleased with a few of them.

I let out a sigh before rubbing my eyes. In so ways, it was easier to be ignorant of the implications and possible overtures. It was easy to walk through a landmine field when you didnt know it was there. I was probably overthinking things but I should probably not set future up for any more issues.

Erika Ive got to be honest, today's been a lot of fun and Im probably making an ass of myself by saying this but Im not looking to get into a relationship with anyone right now. I kept my hands over my eyes so I didnt see the blow coming. If I saw it coming I might flex and use aura to block it out of habit. She might end up breaking her hand.

I fell silent expecting a slap only for the wind to quietly blow through the garden. I decided to risk a peek at her and found her blushing and tottering as if she was about to faint. She swept her hands up to hide her face when she saw peeking at her From the depths of the fabric she said.. I-is! Is that H-how it looks? She sank into herself and like a flower closing up,.her kimono seed to fold up over her hiding her from view.

Uhmmmm, I said intelligently. It did until now? When she rely curled her legs up so her face could push into them and sigh loudly I decided to keep talking I apparently have been reading way too much into this? I gestured at the secluded garden with the towering bento that shed hand prepared herself.

Erika sprouted out of her hiding place and flapped her hands back and forth her face still red. Thats not what I was intending at all! I just wanted sothing to give you to make a nice first impression! She glanced around and noted the picturesque gardens and our privacy. Oh Bellsprouts, this does look like a date doesnt it? She put her face into her hands and groaned.

So you werent trying to get alone?

She sighed hugely into her sleeves. No. Yes? Im not sure anymore. I think I was reading into it too much. I listened to my girls when they were gossiping and heard all the people cheering for you and cheering for Lance and thought it might cause tension and I wanted to know if you were doing that deliberately so I needed to et you but I didnt know you so I had one of my girls call up Surge to introduce us She sucked in a huge breath before continuing And youre not like that at all youre doing this all because what Lance said affecting your family.

O-oh uhm yeah? I scratched my cheek at that and found myself now blushing.

Erika didnt look up. It it was kind of obvious. You check your phone for ssages from or about them while we were walking around. You even said as much. You outright didnt even bother looking at light-toned clothes because theyd get so many stains on them.

Ahaha? Did I say that? I dont recall?

She huffed turning her head and looking at her blush having cald down. I am really bad at this even when Im not trying to date soone

Had so troubles? I said, more to make conversation than to pry.

She flapped her hands about, her sleeves flapping about in frustration. Yes! What is up with so of the guys that ask out! They all get cold feet and ditch on the first date! Do you know how embarrassing it is to be stood up and have half your gym know?

Wouldn't know, Im a bit too busy these days to do anything like go on dates. I looked up at the sky, it was a beautiful crisp blue today. Only a few clouds ambled along. I could see a few pokemon with riders on them. I exhaled and looked down to find Erika watching .

Well thats a sha for so girls She blushed and straightened. Not that Im I know its fine Erika, I said with a chuckle as her blush returned.

She grumbled into her knees. Ill have to tell the girls that youre not looking for anyone, I know a few of them were talking about seeking you out. I snorted amused by the very idea.

Anyone that tried would run into a very firm turn down. Id had to explain as much to Sabrina of all people that I didnt have ti for a relationship when Id started being a Gym Leader.

Yeaaaaah, I have way too much on my plate these days. I started ticking things off on my hands, Theres this whole like challenge I have to deal with tomorrow, dont know if youve heard of it? She giggled at my antics but remained silent to watch as I continued ticking things off. Theres going to be a lot of drama over this, win or lose for the next few months at least. I also have my gym, my pokemon, the trainers that are part of my stable. Hmmm what else? I made a show of waving my hands before appearing to rember sothing, Oh! Right! I have to look after my nine younger brothers and sisters. I lay back and looked once more to the open skies.

I love my family but its not sothing I can or will drop. For so, so many reasons beyond anything Im willing to get into here.

I sighed again, I cant date anyone right now and really make it work. I give her a small grimace, Sorry for reading into things so much. My bad.

Erika humd thoughtfully at that before accepting my words. Well, I cant say that Im enjoying such insinuations, she drew herself up and sat primly, turning so her legs rested underneath her. I shall have to forgive you this ti. She stared at but the look was rather ruined by her twitching lips.

That look doesnt work if I know youre holding yourself back from laughing. Ive seen that on Yolanda too many tis for it to work.

She giggled at before shaking her head. Youre very mature arent you? She glanced at her towering bento box. I wanted to et you and see what you were like. This this was a bit much wasnt it?

I could only shrug at her. I eventually went with, I an, I liked it but it seems like a ton of effort? She didnt respond beyond a hum. I glanced at the bento box. That had probably been the biggest thing that made think date. Id read way too many manga in my past life not to connect dots into the wrong shape. Apparently, she was just a very traditional girl?

Well, now that weve cleared that out of the way, we can eat, I suppose! she said cheerfully.

Thankfully nothing else occurred after that. The food was good and I made sure to politely complint her. We enjoyed our lunch together and I asked after how shed felt the circuit went for her before we eventually drifted back to the hotel. Before she left, Erika patted on the hand.

Dont put yourself too down Brock theres going to be a lot of people cheering for you and I think youll do wonderfully.

Thanks Erika, today was great. Ill see you tomorrow. She bowed in farewell and I watched her walk off before heading up to my room.

Tomorrow, the symbolic fla of Moltres would be lit and the trainers would march before the assembled host to be welcod officially.

And then I would fight Lance. I entered my room and called my family to check in on them. Id do the sa tomorrow before my match. It was good to hear their voices and hear that everything was going fine. Part of unclenched. Id half expected to have to fly back ho tonight.

I lay on the lounge for a few minutes after that before closing my eyes and cycling through my rock and dark type energies. After half an hour I rose and decided to head to bed, but not before making sure the door was locked and barred. I entered the bedroom fully expecting to be able to lay down and go to sleep. But I didnt find myself too surprised when Sabrina teleported into the room. She turned a serious gaze upon .

I failed as a friend. She slumped slightly.

Huh? I replied, confused about how this wild Sabrina encounter was going, a sowhat normal state of affairs all told.

Today when you said you were fine, I did not understand the significance. She looked into my eyes and I noticed how tired she was. Her hair, usually so straight, was out of place. She had small bags under her eyes and they were clearly a little red from strain. I tried to stick around today but the crowds and all their emotions and thoughts were too much. Im sorry, I couldnt help as a friend should have. She looked thoroughly put out. I relaxed a little, comprehension of Sabrinas point of view on this entire day now laid out.

Thats not a problem, it looks like just staying nearby was rough for you. I know you have a hard ti of it with crowds, so dont stress yourself on my account.

I will be there tomorrow in the stadium I should be able to handle the match but there is sothing I can help you with tonight.

Tonight? Concern settled in as my mind slowly clicked on what she might be alluding to. Had anyone explained sex to her? Surely she had picked up thoughts of people and looked into it right? Or had she ignored those thoughts and decided they werent important enough to look into? Sotis you could never really know with Sabrina. This also fell at the feet of bad parenting. Did I need to have 'The Talk' with her? That felt vaguely wrong.

While I was pondering on this, she grasped my arm in her hands and tugged over to the bed before pushing onto it with gentle hands. My throat bobbed as I felt my body freeze and my mind began to race. Was she going to? She joined on the bed, walking on her knees before positioning herself behind . She then rolled us both on our sides so that I was the little spoon to her big spoon.

There, you may relax well as we will sleep together, she said with a slightly triumphant tone.

I turned my head. Was she? She actually looked smug. I felt suddenly disappointed with how this was turning out. That was quickly followed by guilt. Sabrina was naive. I shouldnt exploit her. It wasnt quite the sa as sleeping with a drunk or drugged girl, sothing Id always steered clear of but it still felt skeevy to contemplate.

I also didnt need the complications of mudding the waters once more with Sabrina.

Sabrina rubbed my head gently. What are you doing?

Sothing my mother has started to... try to do with ." she remained silent a mont before continuing, "I have to not be creepy with her and not tell her what shes thinking." I sighed. For a psychic as powerful as Sabrina that was a tough ask. Surface thoughts could sotis feel like people were shouting at her. Emotions that were attached to them must have made it like an Escher painting that held so much more context than I could understand. Sabrina continued. "Its not as nice as now... but I understand the intention. She's trying, I don't like having to ignore her thoughts, but the physical sensation is nice, no?

I felt my desires wither in the face of that reveal. Is Isnt that progress for you and her? It sadly was from what I knew of her ho situation.

Sabrina nodded from behind . Am I doing it right?

Snice, I grunted and thought about that. It was nice. And it was also the only hug Id received in ages. My siblings liked to get and give hugs but was this different? When was the last ti I, as Brock, had been hugged by my Mum or Dad?

In that light, the hug was actually way nicer for the lack of them. Thanks Sabrina. I bit my lip before tapping her arms. Hey, when this fight with Lance is over, co over and Ill explain what Surge ant.

I know what he ant. I stiffened in her arms. But I know you as well, Brock. You didnt need that. She rubbed my head again. Rest Brock, I dont mind. And Ill make sure youre not disturbed tonight.

I felt my heart thump a little at her words, her hands continued to rub and I slowly relaxed. Youre a good friend, Sabrina, I said back to her. Her hug tightened in response but she didnt say anything. I knew if I turned to look shed have a large smile.

I went to sleep that night and found myself relaxing easier into the sleep than I had in many, many nights. So part of that usually stayed clenched relaxed more as sleep claid .

I didnt see Sabrina sit up slightly and squint at my front door, her eyes glowing blue for a few monts. Just as I didnt I hear the screams of shock or outrage from people down the hall. Another part of the hotel also got rather loud, Id later learn. I heard nothing of this. Instead, I enjoyed the hug and comfort she gave.

I didnt see her leave before I woke up.

I awakened with a small indent in the bed and vague thoughts about what I should do. I rolled my shoulders and found them oddly loosened and ready.

Shed been right, I had needed that. It felt strange to be the one that got comforted. Usually, it was Sabrina that was overwheld with too many thoughts, her mind turning on her and her reaching out to for a calm focus to centre herself lest she reverted to how she was so long ago. Shed been so calm, shed been scary and unemotional. And fragile. She had obviously been rather stressed from the days events but shed been able to push through her own stress to offer comfort instead. If tonights reversal didnt show how shed grown as a person, I couldn't think of a better example.

I resolved to do sothing nice for her in the future. She was a good friend to have. I smiled to myself as I stood, ready for the day and the coming match with the Champion.