It was well known to most people in Sinnoh that Paul was not someone who kept friends. This was especially known to Paul's older brother, Reggie, who had seen Paul go through school without so much as two friends. The one that Paul had was only for convenience and lunchtime, so it wasn't easy to call them "friends" as much as "acquaintances."

So how was it that Ash Ketchum weaseled his way into Paul's life as more-than-a-rival? No one knew, not even Paul. It just happened. Not that Paul didn't complain about it, obviously.

"Ash, would you shut up," Paul seethed as he walked beside the other trainer who had not stopped singing Hotline Bling since they left the Pokémon Center over an hour before.

"Aw, c'mon, Paul!" Ash snickered, "Why're you so grumpy today?" he asked. It seemed that, for whatever reason, Paul was especially irritable on Tuesdays.

"I'm not grumpy, you're just stupid," Paul countered. He sped up a little in his pace, swinging his arms briskly as if that would make him faster. Ash had to run to catch up with Paul, and once he was close enough, Ash stuck out a hand and grabbed Paul by the wrist. "Hey! Let go!" Paul barked as he tried to shake Ash's hand off his wrist. Instead, Ash just adjusted his grip until his fingers were laced between Paul's.

The smug look on Ash's face should have earned him a punch in the nose, but it never came. Concerned, Ash dropped his teasing face and opened his eyes. Paul's face was turned away from Ash's and no motion was made to free his hand. "Paul?" Ash called.

"Shut up, let's just go…" Paul tugged Ash along but kept his face hidden away from the younger trainer.

"Where are we going?" Ash asked as he tried to glance at the blush he could've sworn he'd seen on Paul's face.

"I want ice cream and you're coming with me," was Paul's answer. And all the way to the ice cream parlor, they held hands. Neither mentioned it, and neither really wanted to let go. But old ladies commenting on it flustered Paul's hand out Ash's grasp. Damn old ladies.

So, I'm attempting this challenge again...last time I only made it 6 days before I gave up so hopefully I'll last a little longer this time!

Tomorrow's Prompt: Cuddling Somewhere! Ooh this should be interesting...

Review and tell me what you think! Also, this is my first time writing this pairing, so it may not be quite up to par with others! Sorry!