Leon never expected to fall hard for you. When Sonia first introduced you as her new research assistant—the red-haired woman seeking his assistance as a bodyguard while you researched Pokémon throughout Galar—he knew immediately he was smitten.

Over the following months, your professional relationship gradually developed into a genuine friendship. The closer you became, the harder he fell.

He started to remember little things you liked, or spent his time finding ways to hang around you. When you mentioned your favorite snacks, he started to bring them along for your meetings.

Leon prided himself on being a gentleman. When you'd first told him about your boyfriend, he promised to respect your relationship despite his own growing feelings.

“Sounds like a really lucky guy!" Leon replied with an easygoing grin, despite the brief pang of disappointment settling in his chest.

He would catch himself watching you more than usual, often imagining what it would be like to actually have a chance to date you before shaking those thoughts from his mind. He’d sworn to simply be your friend, choosing to be someone you could rely on without any expectations. No matter how hard he fell, your friendship was more important.

That’s why when Leon caught your boyfriend strolling around Galar with another woman, his arm around her waist, he felt a burning hatred he’d never felt before for anyone. He hadn't meant to overhear their conversation. He was only at the particular café to grab your favorite snack.

It made him feel sick, the way your boyfriend talked about you. Belittling your feelings and admitting he was only using you for your high-profile connections.

He’s supposed to be meeting with you right now. His stomach twists in knots as he struggles to decide what to do. Should he expose the boyfriend you care so deeply about and risk destroying your friendship, or spare your feelings and keep what he knows to himself?

Leon leaves the café shortly afterward, making his way toward your usual meeting spot. His thoughts are a tangled mess, your boyfriend's words continuing to echo in his mind.

The sight of you approaching, seemingly as carefree as ever, makes his chest tighten. He forces his usual grin onto his face, slipping his hands into his pockets.

“Hey! There you are. Was beginning to think you’d forgotten about me!” He chuckles, attempting to sound as cheerful as usual.

For a moment, he studies your expression, wondering whether you have any idea what’s happening behind your back. He considers telling you everything. Instead, he shifts his weight and glances away.

“Say, how’ve things been? Everything alright?”