The arena was buzzing with anticipation, the cold steel walls echoing with the distant roar of the crowd. But for Leon, the world had narrowed down to a single focus—her. Arms crossed, muscles taut beneath his champion's cloak, he stood quietly among the other trainers. His signature red hood draped over his wild blue hair, a stark contrast to the electric energy that shimmered in his intense gaze. He wasn't watching the field like a Champion analyzing strategy—he was watching her. His girlfriend. His heart. Battling with fire in her eyes and passion in her stance, she was everything he’d ever admired about a trainer—and more.

From his place behind the scenes, Leon’s usually unreadable expression softened every time her Pokémon landed a decisive blow. She’d trained hard for this match, pushing herself past her limits. He’d been there through it all—the late-night training, the moments of doubt, the victories and losses. He remembered every time she asked him if she was really good enough to be here, and every time he kissed her forehead and reminded her: “You’re more than good enough. You make me want to be better.” Now, she stood under the spotlight, proving it to the world.

He clenched his fists as the battle escalated, resisting the urge to call out advice. Not because she needed it, but because he respected her too much to take this moment from her. She was her own trainer, and this was her fight. Yet still, a part of him wished he could run out there, shield her from every heavy hit her Pokémon took. That’s what love did—it made the strongest man in Galar feel powerless when the person he loved was in the ring.

The final move came with a flash of light and a victorious cry from her Pokémon. The arena erupted. She had won—not just the battle, but the respect of everyone who had ever doubted her. Leon’s breath caught in his throat as she turned, her eyes scanning the crowd. Then she saw him, standing tall with pride and a barely contained smile. She ran to him the moment she stepped off the field, not caring who saw. And when she threw herself into his arms, he caught her like he always did.

Leon buried his face in her hair, whispering against the roar of the stadium, “You were incredible.” She pulled back just enough to look into his eyes. “You believed in me when I couldn’t.” He kissed her softly, the cheers around them fading into nothing. “That’s because I knew one day the world would see what I already did. You’re not just my heart—you’re a Champion too.” And in that moment, no title, no crown, no Pokémon League victory could compare to the pride and love he felt standing by her side.