Misty: You and I will be married someday too.

Ash: * absentmindedly nods* mhm

Ash: * realizes what she just said*

Ash: HUH?!

misty: ' oh no did I just say that outloud?!'

Ps the picture above the title was the only one I could find of them holding hands

The episode I got the meme from was called Heartbreak of Brock

Lol I laughed so hard

And I keep watching it

Like Misty being innocent and then she likes Ash and Ash is like uh huh absentmindedly ( Because he likes her too) and then he realizes and said WHAT THE HECK DID YOU JUST SAY?!

AND WHY DID I CONFESS MY FEELINGS?!

That's how I thought of it like

Lol 

Misty: Take it from me. It's a lot easier to like someone who likes you than to like someone who doesn't.

Brock: How do you know?

Misty: Huh?!

Misty: Oh, that's what I've heard

She was almost caught!

Also though he meets others I still think they love each other

And I don't care what you think they love one another

Anyway

Also look what I found online somewhere!

"Actually the directors and writers had thought to end the anime right after the Diamond and Pearl series and then show Ash and Misty married!"

"Come on, Ash! Hurry up!" Misty giggled as she tugged Ash forward, her hand intertwined with his. She darted through the field of flowers, her excitement bubbling over as she tried to pull him along faster.

Ash laughed, slightly out of breath. "Slow down, Misty! We've got plenty of time to see all the flowers! They're not going anywhere!"

Behind them, Brock strolled casually, hands tucked behind his head, an amused grin on his face. "So... looks like the two of you are official now, huh?"

At Brock's comment, Ash and Misty froze mid-step. Their faces turned red in unison, and they immediately dropped each other's hands.

"We're just friends!" Misty protested quickly, crossing her arms and huffing in frustration, though the blush on her cheeks betrayed her.

Ash nodded vigorously, his heart pounding a little faster than usual. "Yeah! Totally just friends!"

Brock smirked, raising an eyebrow. "Uh-huh. Sure."

Misty shot Brock a glare. "What's that supposed to mean?!"

"Oh, nothing," Brock chuckled, walking past them. "Just that friends don't usually hold hands while running through flower fields."

Ash scratched the back of his head awkwardly, looking anywhere but at Misty. "We were... just trying to keep up! Right, Misty?"

Misty, still flustered, nodded. "Exactly! See, Brock, it's not what you think."

Brock gave them both a knowing look, then turned back toward the flowers. "Whatever you say, lovebirds."

As Brock walked ahead, Ash and Misty exchanged quick glances before awkwardly looking away, both their faces still bright red.

They may have said they were just friends, but neither could deny that something was changing between them.

Ash, Misty, and Brock were racing through the field. Misty tripped on a small rock and fell to the ground with a startled yelp.

Ash immediately froze and looked back, his eyes widening. "Misty?!"

Seeing her on the ground, Ash's heart rate spiked. He sprinted back to her, panic written all over his face. "Misty! Are you okay? Oh no! What if she broke something?! Brock, we need help! Misty, don't move! I'll get Nurse Joy! Where's the nearest center?!"

Brock hurried over, placing a firm hand on Ash's shoulder. "Ash, calm down! It's just a fall. Let me take a look."

But Ash wasn't listening. He was practically tearing at his hair, pacing back and forth in a frenzy. "She might be really hurt! What if it's something serious?! We need to—"

Suddenly, Pikachu leaped onto Ash's shoulder and gave him a light but firm slap on the head. "Pika!"

Ash blinked, rubbing his head. The slap had shocked him out of his panic. "Ow... Pikachu!"

Brock knelt beside Misty, inspecting her leg. "It's just a scrape, Ash. Nothing serious. She'll be fine."

Misty gave Ash a small smile, sitting up with a slight wince. "I'm okay, Ash, really. You don't need to lose your mind over me."

Ash sighed in relief, crouching beside her. "I thought... I don't know, I just thought you were hurt bad."

Misty laughed softly. "I'll survive. It's just a scrape."

Brock chuckled as he helped Misty to her feet. "Ash, you act like you've never seen her fall before. You really need to learn how to relax."

Ash blushed slightly, scratching the back of his head. "I guess I overreacted a little..."

Pikachu snickered from his shoulder. "Pika-pi."

Misty smiled warmly, her eyes softening. "Thanks for worrying, Ash, but I'll be fine. Now, are we going to finish this race, or are you too scared I'll beat you?"

Ash grinned, the panic melting away. "Oh, you're on, Misty!"

As Ash and Misty sprinted ahead, Brock and Pikachu stayed behind, watching them with knowing smiles.

Brock leaned over to Pikachu and whispered, "You know, we should probably start planning their wedding."

Pikachu blinked and then let out a startled, "Pika?!"

Ash and Misty, who were a little further ahead, heard them.

Without missing a beat, Ash, completely unaware of what he was saying, called back, "What flavor cake do you want?"

Misty, slightly surprised but amused, responded, "Chocolate. You love chocolate."

Ash nodded absentmindedly, "True."

Then Misty, half-joking but a bit curious, asked, "Do you think we'll ever marry?"

Ash, still running and caught up in the conversation, muttered, "Uh huh."

There was a split second of silence before it hit him. His eyes went wide, and he suddenly stopped in his tracks, skidding a little as he turned to face Misty. "HUH?!"

Misty's face flushed as she froze mid-step, her eyes wide. "W-what did you just say, Ash?!"

Ash stammered, his face turning red. "I-I didn't mean... I wasn't thinking!"

Misty's heart raced, and for a moment, neither of them knew what to say. Brock, far behind with Pikachu, chuckled to himself, thoroughly enjoying the scene. "Told ya, Pikachu. It's only a matter of time."

Pikachu snickered softly, "Pika-pi."

At the Pokémon Center, the group was winding down after a long day. Ash stretched his arms and yawned. "Night, Brock. Night, Misty," he said as he headed for the door.

Misty looked up, confused. "Where are you going, Ash?"

Ash turned around with a sheepish grin. "There are only two beds, and three of us. I'll sleep on the couch."

Before he could take another step, Misty quickly grabbed his arm. "Oh no, you're not. You're sleeping with me, Ash Ketchum," she declared with a determined look in her eyes. "I'm not letting you out of my sight after last time. And the time before that."

Ash's face turned red as he groaned. "Misty! I can't—" he started, trying to pull his arm free, but Misty held on firmly.

Brock raised an eyebrow, suppressing a laugh as he watched from his bed. "She's got a point, Ash. You do tend to get into trouble when we're not around."

Misty gave him a victorious look, and Ash slumped his shoulders in defeat. "Fine," he mumbled, "but I still don't get why I can't sleep on the couch."

"Because," Misty said with a smirk, "you always end up getting into some kind of danger, and I'm tired of having to save you."

Ash sighed, his face still bright red. "Okay, okay. But no teasing!"

Misty chuckled, "No promises."

With that, Ash reluctantly climbed into bed next to Misty, trying his best to stay as far to the edge as possible, while Misty snuggled under the covers. "Good night, Ash."

"Good night, Misty," Ash replied, still flustered.

From across the room, Brock snickered quietly. "This is better than any soap opera."

In the middle of the night, the Pokémon Center was quiet, save for the gentle hum of machinery and the occasional soft snore from Brock. Ash and Misty, each fast asleep, were lost in their own dreams.

In Misty's dream, she and Ash were sitting by a sparkling river, watching the sunset. She glanced over at him, a soft smile on her face. "I love you, Ash," she said, her voice filled with warmth.

Meanwhile, in Ash's dream, they were standing on a hill, watching a Pokémon battle. He turned to Misty and smiled. "I love you too," he said, his voice carefree and sincere.

Suddenly, both of them jolted awake at the exact same time, their eyes wide and faces flushed. They turned toward each other, almost in sync, and blurted out in panic:

"WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY?!"

"WHAT DID I JUST SAY?!"

"WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY?!"

They stared at each other for a few moments, frozen in shock and confusion. Misty's face was as red as a tomato, while Ash sat there, his hair more disheveled than usual, blinking rapidly.

Brock, who had been snoring peacefully, cracked an eye open and muttered sleepily, "Keep it down, lovebirds. Some of us are trying to sleep here."

Ash and Misty whipped their heads in Brock's direction, then quickly turned away from each other, too embarrassed to speak.

Finally, Misty cleared her throat, her voice trembling. "That was... just a dream. Right?"

"Yeah... yeah, just a dream!" Ash stammered, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly.

They both laid back down, facing opposite directions, hearts pounding in their chests, hoping they wouldn't have another dream like that anytime soon.

But deep down, neither could shake the warmth from what they had said, even if it had only been in a dream.

Ash sat up in bed, his voice a harsh whisper. "We do not speak of this. At all."

Misty, still trying to calm her racing heart, nodded vigorously. "Agreed."

Just as they began to settle back down, Pikachu, who had been quietly watching from the foot of the bed, chirped happily. "Pika-pi!" He held up a small picture.

Ash and Misty squinted at it, their eyes going wide when they realized what it was—a snapshot of the two of them, wrapped up in each other's arms, fast asleep, snoring softly.

"Pikachu!" Ash yelled, his voice panicked. "Give that to me right now!"

Misty shot out of bed, her face bright red. "Pikachu, give that back!"

But Pikachu just giggled mischievously, clutching the picture tightly and hopping off the bed, darting away with a playful "Pika pika!"

Ash scrambled after him, tripping over the blanket in his rush. "Pikachu, come back here!"

Misty chased right behind him. "You little rascal! You can't show that to anyone!"

Pikachu zipped around the room, skillfully dodging them with a sly grin, the photo held proudly above his head. Brock, now fully awake and leaning on his elbow, smirked as he watched the chaos unfold.

"Maybe I should plan that wedding after all," he muttered under his breath, chuckling.

The next morning, Ash and Misty woke up groggily, still haunted by the memory of Pikachu's mischievous stunt from the night before. They stumbled into the small kitchen area of the Pokémon Center where Brock had already prepared breakfast.

"Breakfast is ready!" Brock called cheerfully, setting bowls of oatmeal on the table. "Eat up, guys. We've got a long day ahead."

Ash and Misty sat down silently, their eyes darting around, especially toward Pikachu, who was perched on the counter, grinning innocently. They weren't taking any chances.

Brock eyed them curiously. "You two are being awfully quiet this morning. Something happen?"

Ash shook his head quickly. "Nope, nothing at all!"

"Nothing at all!" Misty echoed, shoving a spoonful of oatmeal into her mouth.

They both ate at lightning speed, their gazes constantly flicking over to Pikachu, watching his every move. They couldn't let him pull another stunt.

Pikachu, noticing their paranoia, gave an exaggerated yawn and stretched. "Pika pi..." He then exchanged a sly glance with Psyduck, who was waddling around the room with his usual confused expression.

Without warning, Pikachu and Psyduck turned toward each other, leaned in dramatically, and pretended to kiss.

Ash's spoon clattered onto the table, his face turning beet red. "Wha—What are you two doing?!"

Misty's eyes widened in horror. "Oh no! Oh no no no no no no no no!"

Pikachu smirked and made kissing noises, while Psyduck, in typical Psyduck fashion, simply looked confused but played along, smacking his beak together awkwardly.

"Pikachu, stop it!" Ash blurted, his face now completely flushed. "That's not funny!"

Misty covered her face with her hands, her cheeks burning. "This is so embarrassing!"

Brock, who had been sipping his tea, nearly choked from laughter. "Oh man, you guys must have had an interesting night!"

Ash glared at Brock. "It's not like that!"

Misty nodded furiously, her face still hidden behind her hands. "Yeah, it's not what it looks like!"

But Pikachu and Psyduck, clearly enjoying their little act, continued to make kissy faces, much to Ash and Misty's horror.

Ash groaned, burying his face in his arms. "Pikachu, I'm begging you, cut it out!"

Misty peeked through her fingers at Pikachu, who was now mimicking a dramatic swoon. "I'll get you back for this, Pikachu!"

Brock just sat back with a satisfied grin, watching the chaos unfold as Ash and Misty squirmed, while Pikachu and Psyduck continued their teasing, completely in their element.

After breakfast, they packed their bags and prepared to set off for the next leg of their journey. Ash slung his backpack over his shoulder, while Misty double-checked her own bag for any last-minute items. Brock made sure they had enough supplies for the trip, as usual.

"Ready to go?" Brock asked, looking over his shoulder.

"Yeah, let's get moving," Ash replied, already starting down the path outside the Pokémon Center.

Misty walked alongside him, and before either of them realized it, their hands found each other's. At first, it felt natural, like they were just continuing on with their usual adventures. But then, out of the corner of their eyes, they saw something that made them freeze.

Pikachu and Psyduck were walking a little ahead of them, but the two Pokémon had locked hands—or paws and flippers, rather—and were imitating Ash and Misty. Pikachu even threw in a wink, and Psyduck, as clueless as ever, just went along with it.

Ash blinked and then looked down at his hand—still intertwined with Misty's.

"Huh?!" Ash yelped, pulling his hand back quickly.

Misty's face flushed as she looked down at her now-empty hand, realizing they had been holding hands the entire time. "W-What—When did we—?!" she stammered, her cheeks turning pink.

Pikachu and Psyduck stopped walking, turning to face Ash and Misty with innocent, wide-eyed expressions. Then, as if to rub salt in the wound, Pikachu reached out to hold Psyduck's flipper again and gave an exaggerated wink.

"Pikachu, quit it!" Ash shouted, his face going red for the hundredth time that day.

Misty huffed, crossing her arms but avoiding eye contact with Ash. "This is your fault, Ash!"

"My fault?!" Ash replied defensively. "You grabbed my hand too!"

"I didn't realize it!" Misty shot back, her face still burning.

Meanwhile, Brock just shook his head, walking a little farther ahead to give them some space, but he couldn't help but smirk to himself. "Those two are hopeless," he muttered.

Two hours into their journey, Misty groaned, dragging her feet along the path. "Ugh, my leg's tired," she complained, shooting a glare at Ash, who had been skipping ahead with seemingly endless energy.

"Want me to carry you?" Ash offered, his face brightening at the idea.

Misty looked taken aback for a moment, her expression softening as she considered it. "You sure?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Yeah! I can totally handle it!" Ash replied confidently, puffing out his chest.

With a determined nod, Misty hopped onto Ash's back, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. Ash took a deep breath, preparing to carry her, but as soon as he took his first step forward, he immediately stumbled backward, nearly losing his balance.

"Whoa! Hold on tight!" Ash yelled, spinning around in a clumsy attempt to regain his footing. He took two steps forward but went ten steps back, his legs wobbling as he fought against the unexpected weight.

"ASH! YOU'RE GONNA MAKE US FALL!" Misty screeched, her grip tightening around him as she tried to steady herself.

"I'm trying!" Ash exclaimed, his voice strained. He spun around again, almost losing balance as he tilted dangerously to one side, then the other, making exaggerated movements to regain control. "I got this! I promise!"

"Just don't drop me!" Misty shouted, her voice rising in panic as Ash spun one more time, teetering like a top.

"I'm not going to drop you!" he insisted, but with each attempt to take a step, he only managed to make the situation worse. He jerked forward, then back, his eyes wide as he concentrated hard on not toppling over.

"Keep your feet steady!" Misty shouted, half-laughing and half-screaming as they nearly lost their balance again. "What are you doing? This isn't a merry-go-round!"

Ash grinned sheepishly, spinning again as if to emphasize his point, "Just adding a little fun to the trip!"

With another shaky attempt to move, Ash took a step forward and stumbled back again, nearly crashing into a nearby bush. Misty clung onto him tightly, her heart racing from the thrill. "You're going to get us hurt!" she cried out, laughter bubbling in her voice despite the chaos.

"Okay, okay!" Ash said, finally stabilizing himself as he shifted his weight. "I'm going to walk slowly this time. Ready?"

"Just don't be a klutz, okay?" Misty replied, her laughter easing into a playful warning.

"Got it!" Ash said, trying to keep a straight face. "No klutziness here!"

He took a deep breath and finally began to walk at a slower, steadier pace, making sure to keep his focus. The world around them blurred as Ash concentrated on maintaining his balance, Misty's light laughter urging him on.

"This isn't so bad!" Ash said, feeling a wave of confidence wash over him.

Then, just as he thought he had it under control, he tripped over a small rock, sending them both lurching sideways. "Whoa!" Ash shouted, flailing as he caught himself at the last second.

"ASH!" Misty yelled, her voice a mix of shock and laughter as she clutched him tighter.

"I swear I can do this!" he insisted, trying to catch his breath.

"Prove it!" she teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement as they finally resumed their awkward journey down the path, a strange mix of laughter, adrenaline, and the thrill of their adventure fueling their spirits.

Brock watched the chaos unfold with wide eyes, a mix of concern and amusement dancing across his face. "Are you okay back there?" he called out, trying to hide a grin.

"Yeah, totally fine!" Ash shouted back, his voice a little strained. Just as he said that, he lost his balance again, his foot catching on a root hidden in the grass.

"Whoa!" he exclaimed, arms flailing as he fought to regain control. He spun around wildly, trying to stabilize himself but only managing to make the situation even more chaotic. Misty squealed, laughter bursting from her lips as they spun like a topsy-turvy carousel.

"ASH! You're a disaster!" Misty gasped, trying to keep herself steady as they twirled.

"I got this! Just... hang on!" Ash grunted, eyes wide with determination as he desperately tried to plant his feet back on solid ground. He took a step forward, only to slip again and spin wildly.

"Look out for that bush!" Brock warned, laughing openly now as he watched Ash whirl dangerously close to a thicket of flowers.

"Not the flowers!" Ash shouted, his voice a mix of panic and exhilaration. He managed to twist away just in time, narrowly avoiding a face-full of petals.

"Careful! You're going to end up in the Poké Center with a face full of flowers instead of Pokémon!" Brock teased, shaking his head in disbelief.

Ash, feeling slightly embarrassed but fueled by Misty's laughter, took a deep breath. "Okay, okay, I can do this," he said, focusing hard on his footing. He made another attempt, taking a slow, calculated step forward.

"Just keep moving forward, Ash!" Misty encouraged, still holding on tightly but trying to steady her own laughter.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Ash took a careful step and then another. "See? I'm totally fine!" he boasted, only to trip again, arms flailing as he lost his balance one more time.

"AHHHH!" both Misty and Brock yelled in unison, their laughter filling the air as Ash spun wildly once again, this time heading straight for Brock, who quickly dodged out of the way.

"Watch out, Brock!" Misty laughed, barely able to contain herself as Ash regained control and stumbled past Brock, barely avoiding him.

"Nice save!" Brock chuckled, shaking his head. "But you might want to let Misty down before you make it a new kind of sport."

Ash managed to straighten himself, finally stopping his wild spinning. He turned to Misty, grinning sheepishly. "Okay, maybe carrying you wasn't the best idea."

Misty burst into laughter, her eyes sparkling. "No kidding! Next time, I'll just walk!"

As the temperature dropped, an unexpected chill swept through the air, causing Ash to shiver slightly. Without hesitation, he slipped off his half-sleeve blue jacket and draped it over Misty's shoulders.

“There you go, it’ll keep you warm,” he said with a friendly grin, trying to mask the slight shiver that ran down his spine. Misty looked down at the jacket, its fabric a bit oversized on her, but she felt the warmth enveloping her, making her smile.

“Thanks, Ash,” she said, looking up at him with concern. Her eyes flickered to his black shirt, noting how thin it was for the chilly weather. “You sure you’re going to be okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine!” Ash replied, brushing off her concern with a wave of his hand. “Come on, let’s keep moving before we freeze! There are still Pokémon to find!”

Misty narrowed her eyes, not entirely convinced but deciding to let it go. “If you say so,” she replied, a playful smirk creeping onto her lips. “Just don’t complain when you start turning blue, okay?”

“Deal!” Ash shot back, a hint of bravado in his voice as they continued down the path. The cool breeze made the journey feel more adventurous, but the camaraderie between them kept spirits high.

Brock walked beside them, shaking his head in mock disapproval. “You two are ridiculous. Ash, don’t go getting frostbite just to look cool for Misty.”

Ash laughed, throwing a lighthearted punch at Brock’s arm. “I’m tougher than that! Plus, I have to keep up with Misty, right?” He nudged her playfully with his elbow.

Misty rolled her eyes but couldn’t help but smile. “As if I’d let you fall behind! Just try to keep up, Ketchum!”

With that, they quickened their pace, Ash feeling the chill a little more now but still fueled by the energy of their adventure. Misty wrapped the jacket tighter around herself, warmth radiating from the small gesture, even as they laughed and chatted, focusing on the journey ahead.

As they continued down the path, Ash found himself lagging behind, his breaths coming in heavy pants. “I’m coming! Go on without me!” he called out, trying to push through the fatigue. His legs felt like lead, and he could feel the chill creeping into his bones.

Misty turned back, concern etched across her face. “Are you alright?” she asked, her voice laced with worry.

Ash managed a weak smile, but the effort cost him. He quickly sneezed into his elbow, the sound echoing in the crisp air. “Oh, you've got to be kidding me,” he groaned, wiping his nose with the back of his hand.

Brock, who had been a few steps ahead, stopped and turned around, eyeing Ash critically. “You really need to take care of yourself. It’s freezing, and you’ve got your jacket on Misty. What were you thinking?”

“I was thinking…” Ash began, but another sneeze interrupted him. “I was thinking I could help Misty and save the Pokémon!” He took a deep breath, trying to regain his composure. “I didn’t think it would get this cold!”

Misty stepped back toward him, her expression softening. “You’re stubborn, you know that? Here, let me help.” She reached out, taking his arm to steady him. “Just a little longer, okay? We’ll find a place to rest soon.”

Ash nodded, grateful for her support. “Okay, just… just give me a second.” He leaned against a nearby tree for a moment, taking in the cold air as he tried to catch his breath.

Brock crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. “How about we find a warm place to sit? You’re not doing yourself any favors, Ash. We can have a snack while we wait for you to recover.”

Misty glanced at Ash, her eyes filled with concern. “I think that’s a good idea. Plus, we can check on Pikachu and the others. They might need a break too.”

“Yeah, that sounds good,” Ash said, finally straightening up. “Thanks, you guys.” With a renewed sense of determination, he started to walk again, albeit slowly, leaning slightly on Misty for support.

“Just don’t push yourself too hard,” Misty cautioned, keeping a close eye on him. “We can’t afford to have you getting sick on us.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know,”

As soon as they found a suitable spot to rest, Ash quickly threw his Poké Ball into the air. “Charmander, I choose you!” he declared, sneezing just as the familiar red and white ball burst open.

With a flash of light, Charmander appeared, its flame tail flickering brightly. However, as soon as it spotted Ash, it gave him a bemused look, as if to say, Really?

“Don’t give me that look,” Ash replied, a hint of laughter in his voice despite the chill in the air. He could feel the warmth emanating from Charmander, and it gave him a little more energy.

Charmander walked over to Ash and plopped itself down right on his lap, curling up as it instinctively radiated warmth. Ash let out a sigh of relief, feeling the heat from his Pokémon seep into him. “Thanks, buddy,” he said, petting Charmander's head affectionately.

Misty watched with a smile, her heart warming at the sight. “Looks like someone knows how to take care of their trainer,” she teased, nudging Ash playfully.

“Yeah, I guess I needed it,” Ash admitted, feeling a little sheepish. “I thought I could keep up, but it’s colder than I expected.” He sneezed again, and this time, Charmander looked up at him with concern, its eyes wide.

Brock chuckled as he set down their supplies. “Maybe you should’ve listened to Misty and put on a jacket before we started. You’re lucky Charmander’s here to keep you warm.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Ash mumbled, feeling slightly embarrassed. He watched as Charmander nestled closer, its body radiating warmth. “Just make sure you don’t overheat me, okay?”

Misty shook her head, laughing lightly. “You’re impossible, Ash. Just focus on getting better. We’ll get back on the road once you feel a little warmer.”

“Thanks, Misty,” Ash said, feeling the fatigue wash over him. With Charmander by his side and the support of his friends, he felt a little more hopeful. He leaned back against the tree, letting the warmth envelop him as he closed his eyes for a moment.

As the trio settled into their brief respite, Pikachu waddled over, joining Charmander and curling up beside Ash. “Pika!” it chirped, snuggling against Ash's side, as if to say, We’ll keep you warm, Ash!

Ash smiled, feeling grateful for the bond he shared with his Pokémon and friends. “I guess I can’t ask for better company,” he murmured, drifting off into a light nap, lulled by the warmth and safety of his team.

As they approached the Pokémon Center, Ash and Misty both looked at each other, determination in their eyes. “You sleep on the bed,” they said simultaneously, before quickly adding, “I’ll sleep here, on the couch.”

“Misty, no, no! You’re the girl! You sleep in the room,” Ash insisted, waving his hands as if that would settle the matter.

Misty shook her head vehemently. “No, Ash! You’re the one who gets into trouble all the time! You need a proper bed to recover!”

“Did not!” Ash protested, crossing his arms stubbornly, a pout forming on his lips.

Just then, Nurse Joy overheard the commotion and stepped out from behind the counter. “Are you the same Ash that helped my cousin with the power issues in Fuchisa City?” she asked, a knowing smile spreading across her face.

Ash’s eyes widened, and he scratched the back of his head nervously. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he stammered, a sheepish grin tugging at his lips.

Misty couldn’t help but laugh, the tension from their earlier argument melting away. “You always do this, Ash. No matter where we go, you somehow end up in the spotlight.”

Ash rolled his eyes, but there was a hint of pride in his expression. “I mean, it’s not my fault people need my help!”

Nurse Joy chuckled, shaking her head. “You really are a hero in your own right. Now, how about we get you both settled? Ash, you should really rest properly if you’re feeling under the weather.”

Misty nodded. “See? Even Nurse Joy agrees with me!” She turned back to Ash, arms crossed. “You’re sleeping in the bed.”

Ash let out a dramatic sigh. “Fine! But only if you promise not to snore!”

Misty shot him a glare. “Me? You’re the one who snores!”

“Not true!” Ash argued, a playful smile breaking through. “That’s just Pikachu trying to talk!”

Nurse Joy shook her head, still amused. “You two are quite the pair. Now come on, let’s get you settled. I’ll prepare some warm food for you both, too.”

As the moon cast a soft glow over the Pokémon Center, the quiet hum of the night wrapped around Ash and Misty. Brock stretched, yawning widely. “Night, guys!” he called out, turning off the light in his room.

“Goodnight, Brock!” Misty replied sleepily, already snuggling deeper into her blanket. Ash watched her for a moment, a fond smile on his face, but soon his thoughts turned serious.

Once he was sure she was fast asleep, he quietly tiptoed over to the couch. The room was dim, but he could still see the familiar shape of Nurse Joy waiting there with a warm cup of hot chocolate.

“Can’t sleep?” she asked softly, noticing his troubled expression.

Ash shook his head, accepting the steaming mug. “Thanks, Nurse Joy. It’s just... I’ve got a lot on my mind.”

She sat beside him, her expression gentle and understanding. “Want to talk about it?”

Taking a deep breath, Ash looked down into his cup, watching the steam swirl. “It’s Misty,” he began hesitantly. “I… I think I really like her. Like, more than just friends. I’m not sure how to tell her, though.”

Nurse Joy smiled encouragingly. “That’s a big step for you. What do you like most about her?”

Ash's cheeks flushed slightly, and he felt warmth spreading through his chest. “She’s brave and strong, and she always knows how to keep me grounded. And she can be really funny, even when she’s being tough on me.” He chuckled, remembering their playful banter. “But she cares so much. I’ve seen her put everything aside for her friends. I admire that.”

As he spoke, Ash felt a weight lifting off his shoulders. It was like sharing this secret made it a little lighter.

“That sounds like quite a connection,” Nurse Joy noted, her eyes sparkling with encouragement. “I’m sure she feels the same way, Ash.”

Just as Ash was about to respond, a soft voice cut through the quiet, “I love you too, Ash.”

Startled, he turned around to see a sleepy Misty standing in the hall, her hair tousled and her eyes half-closed. The warmth from his mug suddenly felt like it was radiating throughout his entire body, but he was also hit with a wave of panic. “How much of that did you hear?” he stammered, his heart racing.

Misty rubbed her eyes, a sleepy grin creeping across her face. “Enough to know that you have feelings for me,” she said, yawning. “You didn’t think I’d sleep through that, did you?”

Ash’s mind raced as he processed her words. “So… you’re not mad?” he asked cautiously.

She shook her head, her expression softening. “No, Ash. I’m not mad. Honestly, I was hoping you’d say something like that.”

His heart soared at her response. “Really?”

“Yeah,” she replied, leaning back against the wall with a contented sigh. “I think you’re really special, Ash. I’ve just been waiting for you to figure that out.”

“Wow,” Ash said, the reality of her confession washing over him. “So, what now?”

Misty shrugged playfully, a teasing smile on her lips. “Now you have to deal with the fact that I’m not going anywhere. You’re stuck with me, Ketchum.”

Laughing, Ash felt a sense of relief and happiness swell within him. “Good! I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

Nurse Joy beamed at the two of them. “Well, I’d say this is a perfect start. Just remember to communicate and be there for each other.”

Ash grinned and nodded. " Thanks, Nurse Joy!"

Joy smiled. " Anytime, Ash."

Then Misty ran to Ash and jumped. Ash caught her and held her close.

" I love you, Misty."

Misty looked up at his brown eyes. " I love you too, Ketchum."