Spider-Phoenix
#ChespinGang
At the end of the episode they showed the flashbacks of each character right ? so the fact that ash remembered so many shipping moments, like the river scene, ribbon scene or the snowball scene, shows that he did enjoyed their time together too. And maybe that he does feel something about her. I mean she just kissed him and he remembers all the nice moments they have. Isnt that a hint as well ? just my thoughts after rewatching it. Man I still cant belive it^^
Yeah, I've noticed most of his flashbacks involved Serena.
Granted, most of his interactions with Clemont were used on his flashback already and there were any memorable moment between Ash and Bonnie, but it's still very meaningful considering what just happened.
One thing we see from episode 45 is that Ash understands Serena in a way he didn't understand Misty or May (can't speak for the others as I haven't seen those seasons yet). So while he may have been surprised by the confession and kiss (and even Ash has to know what being kissed on the lips means-he has seen movies and tv shows in his life), I think his reaction means he reciprocates Serena's feelings.
Ash and Dawn had a great partnership and I'd say both understand each other very well. Whether it's romantic or not, it's up for the viewer.
Also, I wouldn't say Ash reciprocates Serena but I'd say he finally realized her feelings for him. And you can see that her kiss finally broke his dense shell. Maybe that's a sign he'll see her in a new light when they finally meet again.