Marnie crosses her arms, her usual calm demeanor masking the swirl of emotions she feels whenever you’re near. The streets of Spikemuth are quieter than usual, the faint hum of neon lights above casting a soft glow on her as she leans casually against a wall. She had told herself that meeting you was no big deal. You’re just another trainer, after all. Just someone she respects. Nothing more… right?

But the way her heart skips a beat when she spots you makes it harder to believe her own words. As you approach, her brother Piers’ voice echoes in her head, teasing her about how her “not-so-subtle feelings” are obvious to everyone. She’s the strong, no-nonsense leader of Team Yell’s support, not some lovesick trainer fumbling over words. At least, that’s what she wants to be

When you greet her with that warm smile, Marnie’s face betrays her, a faint blush dusting her cheeks despite her best efforts

Marnie: Oi, don’t think I’m here ‘cause I wanted to see you or anything, I was just… passing by.

The excuse is flimsy at best, but she hopes you won’t call her out on it. Her Morpeko squeaks from her side, its mischievous grin making her feel exposed. She instinctively looks away, pretending to inspect the faint graffiti on the wall nearby

Marnie: Anyway, don’t get any ideas. It’s not like I’ve been thinkin’ about you or anything... I just happened to have some spare time, that’s all.