Albert had spent the morning in the underground laboratory, checking the environmental simulators and reviewing type-affinity data for each Eevee group.
His mind was fully immersed in the meticulous rhythms of research, so he didn't notice how quiet the Stone Manor had been that day.
It wasn't until the late afternoon that Joseph's voice called from the yard, unusual in its casual warmth. "Albert, why don't you take a break? There's something I'd like to show you."
Curious but unsuspecting, Albert wiped his hands on a lab cloth and followed Joseph into the sprawling Pokémon yard. At first, nothing seemed out of place—the sun filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the grass. But then, as he stepped closer, the sight caught him entirely off guard
The yard was filled with all 120 Eevee, grouped neatly by their type affinities. Their tails twitched in excitement, ears perked up, and eyes glimmered with anticipation. Above them, streamers and decorations fluttered in the breeze. A large banner read: "Congratulations, Albert!"
He had completely forgotten. "W-what…?"
From behind the decorations, Joseph stepped forward, a rare smile spreading across his face. Beside him were two familiar faces: Sister Maribel from the Togepi Orphanage and Percy, Joseph's assistant, who had grown close to Albert over time, often running errands on his behalf.
"We thought it was time you had a proper celebration," Joseph said. "With everyone you care about… and some friends who can appreciate you. Especially that you're now officially an elementary researcher, breeder, and doctor!"
Albert blinked, struggling to find words. His Eevee, attuned to his emotions through his psychic powers, began to chirp, nuzzle, and form playful circles around him.
One by one, they approached, radiating warmth and trust. For a moment, Albert simply let himself be enveloped by the energy of all the Eevee around him.
Sister Maribel stepped closer, handing him a small, neatly wrapped package. "We wanted to give you something personal," she said kindly. Albert opened it to find a handwoven handkerchief, delicately stitched with his initials. "I thought you might like something thoughtful," she added with a gentle smile.
Percy, grinning, held out a small, elegant box. "This is for you, too. It's… practical, I suppose." Inside was an amethyst-embossed tie clip, glinting subtly in the sunlight. "Consider it… a little reminder of me," he said with a wink.
Joseph then stepped forward, holding a finely wrapped case. "This is for you, Albert," he said. Inside was a luxurious fountain pen, crafted for signatures and precision writing—perfect for documenting research notes or official correspondence. "Use it wisely. And sparingly on paperwork you truly value."
Steven, not to be outdone, appeared at the edge of the yard, grinning from ear to ear. "You thought I'd miss your celebration? Not a chance! I've been helping with the decorations—and making sure the Eevee didn't eat everything." He handed Albert a sleek, customized watch. "It's got alarms for meals and sleep… and some extra features I figured you'd need while running the lab."
Albert finally managed a soft smile; his cheeks tinged with pink. "I…I didn't expect this... Thank you…all of you."
Laughter broke out, the warmth of friends and Pokémon mingling in a rare, relaxed harmony.
Albert's mind, usually so focused on data, experiments, and potential, allowed itself a quiet reprieve. For the first time in a long while, he simply existed among those who cared for him—and the Eevee who trusted him implicitly.
Later, as the sun began to dip behind the distant hills, he allowed himself a rare thought: Perhaps…a family is not only through blood, but also by choice.
With a soft sigh and a small smile, he joined the circle, surrounded by his…family.