The Seaglass Heart

By Cooltrainer Ashton

Cooltrainer Ashton’s Extinction of Team Rocket series rages on in yet another installment of roller-coaster proportions! With “Extinction of Team Rocket'' and “The Storm Feather” painting the canvas of Drew’s departure from his family’s criminal organization and the liberating, life-changing adventure stolen from his child self being everything he envisioned, the Viridian Gym team is united and strengthened by brotherly bonds not easily broken. “The Seaglass Heart”, the ETR series’ third installment, centers on Jake, now a young adult, as he’s thrust unprepared into a darker side of adulthood. Not only does he harbor a terrifying secret that threatens to alienate him from his community and loved ones, he’s also forced to accept that life at home has changed for the worse, making what he believed life to be a different creature. Life’s new stressors are complicated and compounded by his existing issues at home and within the contentious relationship he shares with his parents. However, what he never bargained for was everything he believes about himself, his community, and those around him are about to be shaken up. Sometimes, like wise men and women have said, the broken pieces of our lives often fall together into a more beautiful reality, but how comforting is it to him when he’s in the thick of senseless destruction? With his loved ones supporting him, will Jake find the courage to tackle fate’s cruel hand and claim victory amid chaos, and are his passions separate from being a pokemon trainer enough to neutralize the growing pain in his soul? Be prepared for the coming-of-age adventure of a lifetime, with plenty of tales of love and division, self-discovery and bravery, Japanese culture and tradition, and plenty of droolworthy battles for even the most ravenous of trainers!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cooltrainer Ashton
• Release date: Feb 14, 2021
• ISBN: 9780463281062

Cooltrainer Ashton

?️‍?? Gay demiguy? Empath?? Plant-based✏️ Fanfics? F2-F5?‍♂️Self-love? Nerdy? Mental health#ChallengeoftheGoldenAura available now! ??

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Disclaimer

This is a work of fanfiction. The author does not own Pokémon or anything belonging to Nintendo, Game Freak, or Satoshi Tajiri. All characters and storylines not from the original Pokémon franchise belong solely to the author. Any character resemblances to actual people are coincidental. This story is not being published for commercial or monetary gain and is designed for educational and writing practice purposes as fair use.

Author’s Note

Hello, readers!

Thank you so much for downloading the third installment of the Extinction of Team Rocket series. This was my fastest and most personal project to date, so I hope you enjoy!

If you're a new reader, you can check out the first two installments on Smashwords.

And don’t forget – please follow me on Instagram at @CooltrainerAshton, and you can supplement your reading experience with music by following along to my Seaglass Heart playlist on YouTube!

Happy reading!

Dedication

To every Misty in my life:

Mimi, the arrival of your friendship was the biggest blessing and gift I didn’t know I needed until it arrived. When the world turns a blind eye to my feelings, you never fail to make me feel seen, and I can never repay you for that gift. I can’t wait to see what the new year has in store for us.

Blondie, you have been my ride-or-die from the beginning, and words could never articulate how thankful I’ve been to have you as a colleague, best friend, and surrogate mom. Thank you for making me feel less crazy when my life fell apart and not abandoning me when I was at my lowest. Thank you also for leading by example on building castles out of stones and succeeding without paying mind to others’ opinions. I’m so grateful for you and the happiness you’ve brought to my life, and I would’ve never become who I am today if we’d never crossed paths. I can’t wait for more girl time once this pandemic ends.

Bambi, I have no intention of questioning fate, as it was meant to be for us reconnecting. You are a beautiful person and truly worthy of love and validation. I view my own trauma and healing as blessings now that I get to help you walk the road to healing I’ve already trod. Thank you for your friendship, your love and support, your validation of my craft, and your input that has brought this work more to life.

Shanel, I’m never anything but grateful for our friendship. I’m so thankful for how we met and how we connected out of shitty circumstances, and you’ve been a constant support during every rough transition or plot twist in my adult life. I feel fortunate that you see me as a strong individual and someone who inspires you, so I only hope to continue to be that same source of inspiration and strength for you. Thank you for supporting my journey and ongoing transformation.

Stallion, I love and appreciate you so much. Your friendship has meant so much to me over the years, and through thick and thin I’m so grateful for my Golden Boy with musical Tourette’s who sees and understands me and keeps me grounded when I’m struggling. There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do to support your own journey and healing.

Sapphire, I’m so thankful to have you as my fiercest familial ally. I’ve never felt anything other than support from you after losing Dad and dealing with our family drama. The pandemic hasn’t kept us from staying close, and I can’t wait until we’re able to spend time together in person. Love you to the moon and back!

Bobbi, thank you for being my Aimi. I would’ve never healed or found the strength I had inside me all along if it wasn’t for your care and regard.

Sandi, thank you for being so supportive, both of me and this series! It means the world.

The cure for the pain is in the pain.

~Rumi

The Seaglass Heart

Written by Cooltrainer Ashton

Pride flag photo courtesy of Sharon McCutcheon

Cover design by Cooltrainer Ashton via Microsoft Word & Pixlr

Edited with ProWritingAid

© 2021

Chapter One

The Confession

There is no agony like bearing an untold story inside of you.

~Maya Angelou

CLAP.

The first thunderclap. Being underground made us aloof from the weather, but we only sensed thunder and lightning underground if they were intense enough. It was reminiscent more of a small rumble than an earthquake.

I checked my pokégear again.

I hope they’re okay.

Rain wasn’t due until tonight, and I hoped it would wait longer. With frequent thunderclaps coupled with stirred-up winds, there was no telling how fast it would arrive.

I scuffled into the kitchen and peered at the bubbling and unconcerned stew, which hadn’t changed since my last check a few moments ago. I re-covered the pot and checked the bread. Still not brown. My heart rate rose again.

You need to fucking calm down.

I took a deep breath and released, but I remained restless. I shuffled back upstairs and checked the guest room again. Clean, dressed, and ready.

Why are you nervous? This is for your best friend, not the Emperor. Pull yourself together.

I returned to the hallway and tripped over a pair of shoes. Stumbling, I chucked them into the room to which they belonged.

For fuck’s sake! When will that lazy bum learn to pick up after himself?

The thought of him and his absence aggravated my nerves, and my fists clenched. Hurrying to my room, I sought some solace in my bathroom, splashing cold water on my face. My eyes were less puffy but still somewhat noticeable.

You’ve got to get a grip… losing your mind won’t solve anything… you can do this.

CLAP.

After checking my appearance, a chill came over me once I returned downstairs. Rather than rushing to turn on the furnace, I shuffled to the fireplace and lit the logs with a match. Soon, the aromas of beef, thyme, rosemary, and yeast would be complemented by a roaring fire.

On the couch behind me, Poochyena slept next to Espeon, who was pondering me. My attempt at a smile evaporated fast as I sat to scratch it behind its ears. It nuzzled against my cheek, its purr filling my heart.

What’s wrong with me, Espeon? ...why is this so difficult?

It kissed me on the forehead, and I buried my face in its velvet lavender fur.

Why am I nervous? …There’s no reason why I should be… Yet… telling her terrifies me.

Innocence pooled in its eyes, and it was difficult to ignore reminders of the subject of my grief. I tried to push it from my mind, but I couldn’t help it. I grieved their absence, and, in Espeon’s mind, the feeling was mutual.

I’ll survive… I don’t need to be afraid… I need to be confident.

Taking the remote from the coffee table, I switched the television over to our movie player and let it cycle through previews of other films. Sometimes, my favorite movie comforted me when I felt alone.

I checked the bread again. Closer, but not done yet. The stew only needed to stay warm.

Guess I should go upstairs and wait.

I traipsed out the front door and down the hallway, hearing it shut with a firm thud behind me.

CLAP.

I followed its length to the elevator and rode it up to the ground floor, holding my breath as it climbed. Once the doors opened in the lobby, the sound of rain greeted me, pounding everything in its path. My heart sank.

I’m such an idiot. Having them travel in the rain was a mistake.

A strike of lightning in the distance belabored my nerves, and I took deep breaths, trying to forget my worry. I searched for anything to ease my nerves, and after a while of zoning out, I noticed something drawing closer, and my heart swelled with relief as Dragonite came more into view, its flight swift and agile as it approached the building, surrounded by a turquoise aura that shielded itself from the rain.

It descended and touched down inside the lobby after I propped the doors open, letting them shut with a rusty creak. I’d missed my best friend, and despite my heart rate being up again, Misty’s smile matched mine. To my surprise, her orange-red hair was dry, and her green eyes met mine, my spirit lightening. We’d been apart a while, but I was so glad she was here. She dismounted and threw her arms around me.

It’s so good to see you, I said. Thank you for coming.

Of course, she replied. Anything for my best friend… I have to say, you grow handsomer each time I visit.

Oh, stop! I said, blushing.

You have! Puberty has been kinder to you than others I know.

I chuckled. Alert the medical scholars, but don’t tell them about Drew. They might faint.

She giggled. Can’t argue that. How that man got away with his genetics, I’ll never understand.

Thank you, Dragonite, I said before I rubbed its head and called it back to its pokéball.

I turned back to her.

I was so worried, I said. I didn’t expect the rain would arrive so soon.

Oh, we were fine, she said. Dragonite’s Safeguard kept us dry, so it was a pleasant trip.

Can I take your bag? I figured we’d drop your pokémon off and get settled.

Sure, she said. I’m sure they’re ready to catch up with yours.

She followed me to the trainer’s elevator so we could visit our habitat.

So is he still gone?

I nodded, my brow furrowing. He’s been gone a week. I don’t know where he is, but right now I don’t care.

I don’t understand him, she replied. He acts like such a kid sometimes. It’s time for him to take responsibility for the gym since you both are maintaining it.

Agreed. Sometimes, it’s nice having him gone, but it’s too much to maintain everything and my sanity.

And it’s not fair to you, she added.

I guess that’s my duty since I’m the acting leader… but I’m so grateful to have your help.

It’s my pleasure. Besides, what are friends for?

I smiled. Who’s watching your gym if you’re here?

My sisters came home from one of their tours, so I guilt-tripped them into giving me some time away.

Do they know you’re here?

They do, and, to be frank, they won’t stop pestering me with questions.

Why? What are they asking?

Oh, they’re convinced we’re dating, no matter how many times I’ve told them we’re only friends.

I chuckled. I never thought I’d find that so amusing… and they don’t believe you?

She shook her head. Naturally, they’re right about everything, and if they’re convinced I’m dating someone, I’m remiss to argue.

How annoying… I guess it’ll be awhile before that dies.

No kidding… it required a great deal of convincing for them to accept that Drew would never be an option, despite their advice of not letting ‘a sensitive hunk’ out of my grasp.

Wow, that’s rich of them, since they know nothing about him… Drew would blush if he knew… they never met him, right?

She nodded. Before the only date we had.

We arrived at the B1 floor and moseyed to our Pokémon Center. I fed Dragonite its dinner while Misty continued through the next door to let her pokémon out into our habitat. When Dragonite finished, we both followed, letting it roam to its favorite spot. The area was wet from rain, as our castform helped mimic the weather outside. Misty’s gyarados, corsola, and staryu swam in the lake while her psyduck ran around with some of our other pokémon, who wanted to splash around in some residual puddles. Arcanine and Manectric ran over and nuzzled me, getting loads of head rubs.

Have you two played enough?

They barked, offering me kisses.

All right, then, I said. Let’s go back upstairs.

Misty returned and smiled, paying some love to them as well. My pokémon seem happy to be back. And I think Feebas is warming up to Gyarados.

That’s a positive turn of events, I said. It’s nice to not have to worry about it cowering somewhere in the lake.

Yeah, Gyarados tries too hard, but sometimes some persistence never hurts.

Let’s hope. Now, let’s warm up. Dinner should be ready now.

Wonderful, she said. I can’t wait.

I never inquired with him, I said as we boarded the elevator for the ground floor, but how was your date? This was before he left, right?

She nodded. It was a few months after your gym reopened. I treated him to dinner at my favorite restaurant in Cerulean City, and then he treated us to a special play at the Viridian Theater.

"It makes sense only because I know him, but how did you feel about everything?"

It surprised me when he agreed to a date, and I knew not to have high expectations, considering his past… but any physical contact between us wasn’t natural… he was open to anything that came up, but there was no spark… and I didn’t want him to try for my benefit.

"How did you feel afterward?’’

When nothing came of our date, I wasn’t hurt. We had a lovely evening together, and we were both fine with being friends… I had some closure regarding ever dating him.

I’m sorry nothing panned out, I said.

Oh, don’t be, she replied. I like to believe everything happens for a reason. We aren’t compatible with everyone, and there’s someone special for each of us.

That’s a lovely sentiment.

She smiled. I like to believe so, anyway. Pisces trait.

We reached the front door, and within moments we were no longer in a drafty hallway and back in a warm and toasty house. Arcanine and Manectric migrated to the fireplace while I ran into the kitchen, the bread even more fragrant and ready to serve.

You two have the right idea, Misty said, bestowing Arcanine and Manectric with belly rubs before Espeon and Poochyena greeted her. Aw, I missed you both too.

We all have, I said.

Luckily for you, I’m staying for a good while, so I’ll be able to dote on everyone.

As I checked the stew, I heard Misty giggle.

"Ratatouille again, Jake?"

I smiled. Guilty as charged.

Man, you do love this movie.

C’mon, you have to admit it’s cute… and comforting.

Our pokémon curled up in front of the fire while Misty joined me. Espeon sat on a barstool, receiving lots of pets.

How has everything been here?

Lonely, I replied as I set the bread on a cutting board to cool. I’ve watched Ratatouille at least five times, and most of the time I spend my evenings curled up with everyone on the couch.

I’m sorry it took me so long to get everything settled, she said. I wish my sisters cared enough about more than themselves, and maybe they would’ve understood why I needed to be here sooner… I never want you feeling lonely.

Don’t even worry, I said, smiling and portioning stew into six bowls. I’m glad you’re here. I’m capable of leading the gym alone… but support helps if situations arise.

Of course, she said, smiling. I know how hard leading a gym is, and it shouldn’t all be on your shoulders... Silver needs a reality check.

A frown settling over my smile. I’m so upset with that son of a bitch.

How many times has he left, unannounced? Three times, right?

Try at least four times now, I said, relighting the burner under a lone pot of apple cider I’d made earlier. No warning or message left. He leaves for a week or two and returns as if nothing’s happened.

What does he do?

Your guess is as good as mine. He came to Kanto to train, so I assume he’s training.

That’s unbelievable, she said. It’s lost on me how someone has the nerve to leave unannounced. Leading a gym is tough work when you’re part of a team, let alone when you’re alone without extra help.

Having him here isn’t any easier. He doesn’t help with the maintenance.

He doesn’t?

I shook my head. He only facilitates trainer challenges with me… I do everything else, including the cooking and cleaning here… maybe on rare occasions he’ll feed the pokémon, and once I’ve seen Silver clean, but I think it was because Drew asked him. Drew always helps me, but I feel guilty because the gym should be his sole focus.

I hate saying anything negative about Drew’s own flesh and blood, but I never expected him to be the asshole he is. I mean, he is Giovanni’s son… but thank God Saundra raised Drew alone.

I nodded. Silver’s without a doubt the king of all assholes. If he isn’t here, teasing me and undermining my confidence when trainers are looking for a gym badge, he’s gone on a trip.

I didn’t realize he bothered you that much.

I hate that he does… he’s a stronger trainer, and he doesn’t skip an opportunity to point it out.

"But, Jake, you are a strong trainer. You did well enough to qualify for the Hoenn League… and our colleagues at other gyms respect you."

Yeah, but I’m still not anywhere near Silver in terms of strength. He’s earned most of our region’s badges… and I’m so nervous during tag battles because of his mouth.

I’m so sorry you’re dealing with that, she said. ...I’m serious, you are an impressive trainer… I’d like to knock some sense into him... and I’m sure Drew’s absence doesn’t make this any easier.

I shook my head, not sure what to add. Tears formed behind my eyes, so I turned around and switched gears before I let them show.

I made up your usual room. Why don’t you take your belongings upstairs and get settled? I’ll have dinner on the table once you’re back.

All right, she said.

I expected her to go right upstairs, but her hand found my shoulder, and, when I turned around, she hugged me tight.

You don’t have to hide your feelings, Jake, she said.

I tried to hold on but found it difficult. I want to be strong…

But strength doesn’t come from bottling your feelings, she said. It lies in allowing yourself to acknowledge and process through everything that hits you.

Tears streamed down my face, and I fought not to break. I’m sorry…

Don’t be, Jake, she said, rubbing my back. You have nothing to apologize for… I know you’ve been hurting. I’ve seen it, and I suppose I hoped it would improve… but I remember this started after Drew left.

The tears came much easier at the sound of his name. I fought as hard as I could not to be an emotional mess.

...I can’t lie to you, Misty… we’re too close to hide anything.

She released me, and I saw tears in her eyes too.

I wanted to talk to you about everything, I said. But I… I want us to enjoy dinner, and then I’ll be more open to letting myself be vulnerable.

Of course, Jake, she said before she brought me back into her arms again. Whatever you want… and dinner smells delicious, so I’m already spoiled.

I smiled. Good. Now, you get yourself settled, and I’ll pull myself together.

She released me, and after putting on a smile, she took her bag upstairs, with Espeon following her.

Poochyena wandered into the kitchen, pawing at my leg, as I braced myself on the counter, breathing deep to bring myself back. I brought it into my arms and held it tight.

I’m so grateful for you, I told it. Even when this house seems cold, and I’m alone, I appreciate that you’re right beside me.

It whimpered and kissed me on my forehead.

After a moment of snuggles, I resumed my preparation. I sliced the bread and put it into a basket before covering it with a towel. I brought it over to the table along with the bouquet I’d snipped from our garden. I heard Misty’s steps on the stairs as I lit two large candles I brought to the table.

Wow, whatever you put on the stove smells heavenly, she said.

I smiled as I returned to the pot and ladled it into mugs. I was craving apple cider, and Saundra explained over the phone how to make it.

You have me hungry from the aromas alone.

Good, and we have plenty. Everything’s on the table, so let’s eat.

I brought our stew bowls over for everyone, serving Misty first and then our pokémon, with the stew having cooled enough for them to enjoy.

Eat up, everyone, I told them. There’s more if you’re still hungry.

I sat in front of my bowl and caught Misty’s smile, both of us enjoying our meal together after a significant absence.

Everything’s delicious, Jake, she said. Thank you for all the trouble.

I was happy to, I replied, smiling. This is one of my favorite meals, and Saundra’s made this so many times I’ve learned how to prepare it like she does.

How is she? Is she still giving you cooking lessons?

Yeah, she’s doing well, and my coming over every week has been a tradition since Drew left… it’s brought us closer, and our time together makes everything seem less lonely and… more normal. I’m heading over tomorrow night for dinner, and I’m sure she’d love to have you as another guest.

How wonderful, she said. I’m so glad she’s taken to mentoring you… I love seeing the smile cooking gives you.

I blushed. It’s a lot more fun than I expected, so I found a new outlet.

"Now I understand why Ratatouille is such a favorite movie of yours."

I chuckled. Is it that obvious?

She joined me. It all makes sense… what are you two preparing?

I tried to say it matter of fact, but I guffawed. Ratatouille!

Oh, how funny! Why am I not surprised?

I have a hankering for it now after watching it so many times.

I don’t think I’ve had it either, so I’m excited to try it.

Me too.

We ate in silence for a few moments, both of us sopping up the remnants of the stew with hunks of hot, herby bread. Our pokémon munched beside us. I refilled their bowls before doing the same for us.

I can’t believe it’s been close to a year since Drew deployed, Misty said once I’d returned to the table.

Agreed, I replied. The year has flown by, but I still feel his absence every day.

I don’t remember every detail you gave… so Lance dropped by and persuaded him to enlist into the G-Men?

I nodded. It wasn’t quite a year after we came back when he visited. After explaining how vital his input and experience was for combating organized crime and the expectations of the role, he thought over it for a few days before agreeing to enlist… and for three months, Silver and I fielded trainer challenges while he underwent special training with his mentors.

What type of training? she asked.

From what I remember, he studied jujutsu with Bruno, Kiyo, and Chuck, and he also underwent through intensive ninjitsu training with Koga and his daughter, Janine. And from Sabrina, I believe they focused his telekinesis training on staying calm, containing his anxiety, and making his vitals and body movements easier to conceal.

Wow, was all she said.

...So, when the summer ended, he enlisted and left for bootcamp in Vermillion City… I’m glad Saundra and I saw him before he deployed.

And he deployed in December?

Yes, so next month will mark a year.

Have you heard from him? Or have you heard what he’s been doing?

I shook my head. Saundra doesn’t hear from him often since he has to communicate in secret, but she received a call from him last week… I guess it’s too risky to have any outside communication with anyone because of the mission he’s on.

It must be challenging for everyone in his life to be separated from him.

I nodded. …But he gave a message to her… I haven’t told Silver since he’s away, but… it makes me super emotional when it comes to mind.

What was it?

...He misses being home… and that’s all that’s on his mind.

Aww, Jake. That’s so sweet… and I bet this is tough on him too.

I’m clueless as to how he handles it.

I stared at my half-eaten bowl, my mind no longer on my stew. Before Misty picked up on it, I brought my bowl to the island and began ladling the remaining stew into containers. Soon, Misty brought over the empty bowls from the rest of our group.

Thank you, love, I said before taking them.

Can I help?

No, I’ve got it. Feel free to relax.

With the containers in the refrigerator and the dishwasher loaded, I finished my bowl before running a cycle and joining Misty and our pokémon in the living room. Poochyena lay in my lap, Manectric to my right on the couch, and Arcanine at my feet while Misty sat next to me, with Espeon lying next to her. The fireplace gave us warmth as we watched our movie.

From previous viewings, watching warmed my heart, but my mind returned to our previous discussion. I wouldn’t feel free until I ripped off the bandage. It was one reason I wanted Misty to visit.

Do you mind if we pause for a bit? I asked.

Not at all, she replied. Are you ready to talk?

As ready as I’ll ever be.

We had a moment in the stillness for me to gather my courage. Misty’s eyes held kindness, and my tears came back. I was strong. I’d get through this. Our friendship was strong and could endure anything. Her hand found mine.

What’s wrong, Jake? I hate seeing you upset. Is this about earlier?

I nodded. Partially...

Is it being alone here?

It’s not that… I’ll survive, regardless of if Silver is here. It’s just that… I miss Drew.

Oh, sweetheart…

The tears flowed. I’m m-miserable without him here, Misty… I wish everything could return to the way it used to be…

Me too… but… Drew will be back.

I nodded. You’re right… And I can’t wait for him to be home… But...

...But what?

There’s something else… and I’m… afraid.

What are you afraid of?

...I’m afraid you and Drew will have a different view of me… it’s stupid, and I’d like to believe nothing will change… But… there’s something I haven’t told either of you… something that’s come up a few months ago… and it terrifies me.

Jake, nothing could make me love or support you less… and knowing Drew, I don’t see how he could either.

This aggravated my emotions, and my chest heaved. Maintaining eye contact was difficult.

Whatever you tell me, I promise you nothing will change… it won’t leave this room, and I will be by your side, no matter what.

Tears streamed down my cheeks as I looked into her eyes and accepted the consequences of whatever happened. There was no turning back now.

Misty… I’m gay.

Tears appeared in her eyes, and she brought me into her arms.

Honey, is that all that scared you?

I couldn’t even answer as sobs and heaves racked my chest. She held me as long as I needed, rubbing my back as I allowed my emotions to surface, the fear of being rejected and the pain of not having Drew around melting away.

Honey, you don’t see how strong you are, she said. I’m so proud of you. I know that wasn’t easy, but I still love you and am here for you… nothing could ever change that… it makes sense now, since we’ve always been close, and I never had doubts about your intentions… plus you’re the only guy who loves going shopping and doing self-care routines with me.

I chuckled, feeling calm. I stood to blow my nose and wipe my eyes, and I returned to the couch, our hands clasped.

I fear what this means, I said. I doubt my family would accept me, not to mention the community.

That must weigh heavy on you, she said. I can’t speak for your parents, but they’d be fools to reject you. Granted, I know you have a strained relationship with them, but they should already know how incredible you are.

Thanks, love, I replied. I’m grateful to have such a supportive friend like you.

I’m happy to reciprocate back. You’re my closest confidant, Jake. I will always support you, and the community will too. You do so much for the gym and the city they’d be foolish to mistreat you.

We resumed the movie, and I rested my head on Misty’s shoulder as we watched, with our pokémon cuddled up with us.

Will you tell Saundra? she asked.

Yes… and I’m… not as nervous telling her versus my parents.

She’s wonderful, and I don’t think she has a mean-spirited bone in her body. If anyone would support you no matter what, it would be her.

I smiled, relief washing over me like a storm over a desert.

We watched the rest of the movie in warm silence before we headed upstairs. Misty and I both went about our skincare regimens, for which I was grateful. I’d had some acne problems once puberty began, and after teaching me how to take care of my skin, it managed it well.

I finished and brushed my teeth before returning to my bedroom, with Manectric, Arcanine, and Poochyena lying on my bed.

You three are something else, I said, chuckling. Where am I supposed to sleep?

They barked at me, and I gave them plenty of head scratches before Misty appeared in the doorway, wearing her hair down and an oversized t-shirt. She came over and hugged me tight.

Does Espeon sleep in here with you?

I shook my head. It sleeps in Drew’s room most of the time.

All right, she said. Sleep well, Jake.

You too, I replied. And thank you for being here.

There’s nowhere else I’d rather be.

It means the world… and if you get cold, you’re welcome to adjust the heat.

She shut the door behind her, and I stripped to my boxer-briefs and climbed into bed in whatever space was left. Poochyena and Manectric lay against my right side, and Arcanine on my other side. I took the shirt laying on my pillow and held it to my nose. It still carried some of Drew’s sweat and cologne, and its aroma filled my senses with a level of comfort I missed. I pulled my quilt over us, and after losing myself in the warmth brought to my senses, I was asleep.

Chapter Two

The Yearning

I may be thousands of miles away, but you’re still the first thing on my mind.

~Unknown

The next morning, I found it difficult to find the motivation to get out of bed, as my sleeping companions surrounded me. Cuddling with them was my favorite time of the day, bonding and staying warm. Our closeness helped me forget about my loneliness.

After stretching out my limbs, they stirred and came over to me for belly rubs and kisses.

You are too much, I said, kissing their foreheads and scratching them. It reminded me I needed to brush them and vacuum. There was a constant layer of hair on the carpet, though now it was less prevalent after they’d built up their winter coats.

I tried to enjoy the stillness as I lay nose to nose with Poochyena, with Manectric and Arcanine cuddled up to me, their tails wagging and their mouths panting. My mindset made it tough to stomach. Some viewed stillness with comfort, but, like others on the opposite end of the spectrum, I didn’t share that view. Silence and stillness held a coldness and loneliness to it that I didn’t enjoy. But this morning I didn’t notice it. Aside from the morning chill that would leave soon once the furnace kicked on, my pokémon kept me warm.

I love you boys, I told them. I’m never lonely with you keeping me company.

They barked back in response.

I looked toward my left wall, where photographs hovered over the dresser that was adorned with souvenirs Drew and I gathered from our Hoenn adventure and a few trinkets he’d sent during his deployment. My heart sank as I fixated on one of our pictures, taken during our second stay with Wally’s family in Verdanturf Town, with Wally in between us. Despite Wally and I staying in contact like the good friends we were, tears streamed down my face as I longed for that closeness and carefree fun again. Arcanine licked me, its hot tongue like a hot spa towel, wiping away my tears. I hugged it tight, burying my face in its fur. Any tears that escaped vaporized after hitting its skin, letting off a faint hiss.

Once I’d let out my tears and found comfort with my companions, I writhed my way out of bed and splashed some cold water on my face. I looked in the mirror, seeing a clear complexion and my blue eyes puffy, with a touch more redness than I wanted. I sighed and returned to the room, swapping my boxer briefs for a pair of gray shorts and locking eyes with my companions.

Let’s go stretch, I told them before I left the room.

They followed me downstairs, where I found Misty in one of our robes, starting the coffeemaker.

Good morning, Jake, she said, smiling.

Morning, I replied, and thank you. You’re an angel for doing that.

She giggled. I don’t know about you, but I could use some.

Once I entered the kitchen, I was in her arms, enjoying this close embrace for as long as it lasted.

When it ended, I felt her eyes on me.

Are you okay?

Why do you ask?

Your eyes.

Yeah… I just let some emotions out… I’m fine, I promise.

She smiled. I know you are… I just wish I could help you more.

Being here with me is plenty.

I hugged her tight again.

I’m going to feed our pokémon their breakfast, I said when the embrace broke. Would you like to join me for yoga?

Sure, she said.

Great. Meet me in the recreation room. This shouldn’t take long.

Arcanine, Poochyena, and Manectric followed me out of the house and into the elevator. They escorted me through the lobby, the trainer elevator, and finally to the habitat. Our Pokémon Center housed all our supplies to keep our habitat pristine, including the food Drew taught me to prepare for our teammates.

I lugged one of our last full containers of food that held enough for one meal for everyone into the habitat. The space held lots of trees, grassy fields, a rockier terrain, and a large indoor lake. It was a beautiful, relaxing oasis for everyone, and our teammates loved living here. Castform, besides controlling the seasons here, also assisted with altering the weatherscape during gym battles and training. Today, after raining all night, sunlight flooded into the habitat to warm everything, and our pokémon frolicked around in the morning sunshine.

Come get your breakfast! I called to them.

Our pokémon all scurried in my direction. I set bowls in front of Arcanine, Manectric, and Poochyena and all of those around me. One by one, I filled their bowls, and they ate with tails wagging while I tended to everyone else. Breloom, Lairon, and Vigoroth ate next to my companions. My team always put a smile on my face. I rubbed their heads before I put a bowl in front of Psyduck, giving it head scratches as well.

I then walked around and set bowls beside our other habitat pokémon that played a special role in our habitat. They including Castform, our chansey that tended to our injured teammates, our butterfree and beautifly who helped pollinate our plants, our lilligant, whose flowers gave off a relaxing fragrance for our habitat, and our shuckle, whose shell gave berry juice that was useful in our food recipe.

There were also the pokémon the gym inherited from Drew’s father, Giovanni. Drew and I had endured through the trials of his father, his brother Will, and the other executives and members for their crimes against humanity. Though excruciating, I remained at Drew’s side through hours of testimony and questioning until, almost a year later, the government convicted and sentenced them. While members and executives received life sentences, Giovanni received the death penalty by hanging.

As a result, all of Giovanni’s pokémon were without a trainer. All except his kangaskhan, which through investigation he’d acquired and broken the law and therefore police returned it to the Safari Zone. Once the gym reopened, we met with the remaining pokémon in a special meeting and offered them refuge under a loving trainer’s care. They hesitated but after some persuading agreed to come to the gym. Persian tried to attack Drew, which failed with Drew’s telekinesis being stronger than its resolve. However, it took a liking to Silver and became his companion.

After some hard work and care, Nidoqueen, Nidoking and Rhydon, had complete trust in us, and they seemed much happier. Murkrow, evolving into Honchcrow with