Everlasting Memories (Pokémon Hugh X Rosa)

Memories of First Kisses

Nate makes a noise somewhere between a squeal and a d'awww. Hugh raises his eyebrows. This is not a noise he expects a guy his age to make.

"That's adorable!" gushes Nate. He looks like he wants to jump up and hug Hugh, but the taller boy stops him just in time. For those of you keeping score at home, Nate and Hugh have won 16 battles in a row and are well on their way to meeting the Subway Bosses.

"So what happened next? Did you confess to her? Did she say yes? Did you kiss her? Did you two start dating? Tell me!" Nate is jumping up and down in excitement.

Hugh chooses not to reply. Instead, he drags his feet slowly to the next car, not unlike a tired old man who's forced to babysit his hyperactive grandson.

Thankfully, Nate's Xtransceiver rings again, silencing the boy. Hugh glances at it to see Yancy calling yet again. This time, Nate declines her call without even looking at the device. It's amazing to see how he can be so chipper and happy at one moment, then sullen at the mere mention of her.

The two boys deposit their Poké Balls into the computer for healing.

"Is Yancy your girlfriend?" asks Hugh.

Nate avoids his gaze. "Sort of," he says. He stares dully at the blank screen.

Hugh leans against the machine. "Tell me about her."

Nate perks up. "What can I say? She's pretty and smart and amazing and she likes to cook and she's-" Nate stops and sighs, "also a liar."

"What?" Hugh asks.

Their opponents have released their Pokémon, a Munna and a Swoobat. Nate shakes his head. "Never mind," he says.

After the battle begins, Nate pokes Hugh in the side.

"What?" asks Hugh irritably. He doesn't like being poked.

"Did you and Rosa ever...you know..." whispers Nate.

Hugh scowls. "If you're asking me if I've ever slept with Rosa, then I think you're a –"

"No!" cries Nate, his face scarlet. "I just wanted to know if you've ever kissed her! Man!"

Hugh facepalms. "Good grief..."

Four months ago

It was a beautiful day. The sky was clear and sunny and the air smelled fresh and clean. Pidove cooed as they soared across the sky.

Hugh and Rosa were walking along a stream. His arm was around her as she clung to him. She rested her head on his shoulder, her brown hair tickling him in the neck. He patted the side of her arm.

"Oh, Hugh," said Rosa happily. "Isn't this amazing?"

"Indeed it is, my love," replied Hugh in a voice much deeper than usual. He quickly kissed the top of her head.

Rosa blushed. "You're so romantic, Hugh." She nuzzled against his neck. "I love you."

Hugh smiled and then leant down for a kiss. He puckered his lips in expectation.

"Hugh?" said Rosa uncertainly. "Um, Hugh? Hugh!"

He frowned. Why wasn't Rosa kissing him back? He leant closer.

"Hugh?" asked Rosa, more urgently this time. "Hugh!"

With a loud crash, Hugh found himself at the foot of his bed. The remnants of his dream faded away, and he woke up to find Rosa bent over him, peering at him anxiously.