Madoka was running in circles. Not literally of course but figuratively. The accidental kiss with Ginga had left her stomach in knots, her heart blanketed in a cloud of confusion and her head hazy and in a state of dizziness. She'd gone back to the B-Pit after visiting Ginga's and ran straight up the stairs and to her bedroom, slamming the door behind her. She needed some time to herself. Madoka flopped onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling as though it held all of life's answers. Folding her arms over her chest, she let out a huge sigh. Since when did things get so complicated? Oh wait, that's right, when Ginga decided to collapse into a heap on her doorstep.

She wasn't sure if she should tell Tsubasa. They were all adults, now. It wasn't like Ginga and she couldn't work this out like two mature, responsible grown-ups. Besides, informing Tsubasa would only be total relationship suicide. Who in their right mind would tell their boyfriend that they accidentally kissed another guy, when it didn't mean anything? Telling Tsubasa would indicate that Madoka had returned those feelings when in reality, all she felt for Ginga was friendship.

Yes, that was it. Simply and purely friendship. What they shared had been wonderful, but it was over now. She had moved on. There was no sense in treading backwards when she needed to be moving "forward". She let herself smirk. It wasn't even that good of a kiss. It probably would rate a mere 2.5 on the kissing scale. No, not even that much! She was being too generous. She let her mind wander back to the event and immediately frowned. Who was she kidding?

It was sensational. She was a little surprised that Ginga could still have that effect on her…the whole "weak in the knees" thing. But that didn't mean she had felt any genuine emotion, right? Sure, the kiss had left her a little woozy but that didn't mean she, herself had romantic feelings for Ginga, right? It was the technique of the kiss that had caused the butterflies, not because of the piercing way he was looking at her…or the fact his hair just wouldn't stay…. Or the way… Madoka shook her head. Grabbing a nearby pillow, she thrust it over her face and let out a frustrated scream.

oOo

Ginga was walking around in the city, alone and though a little peeved at Madoka's quick departure that morning, mainly content. Word had gotten around that he was in fact alive and not dead via press. Ginga was grateful, because people smiled and sometimes waved, instead of issuing him that surprised look of disbelief and fear, as when he first came home. Many of the papers had wanted interviews, but the only one he had issued so far was with "The morning news" a magazine run by one of his friends, from Yuu Tendo. It still amazed him how Yuu decided to become a journalist. He still remembered how they met for the first time. Yuu had been such a big supporter and fan of Ryuga in the beginning. He smiled…now it seemed as if little Yuu had finally grown up. He still had that childish air around him, but not as much as he used to have. He invited Ginga to come to the WBBA building tonight, since there was big party held there, or something like that. He had told him about an important meeting for the Japanese WBBA and him writing an article about it. But to Ginga it only seemed as if Yuu was attending this event, because of the party. Ginga was not sure, if he was in the right mood for that.

It had been about two weeks since Ginga had arrived home and though he was in a state of bliss, something was nagging at him. He didn't mean to keep dwelling on the subject, but he had a strong feeling that Madoka was avoiding him. And whatever her reasons were - he was sure - it couldn't mean something good. She was still denying all feelings for him. He frowned to himself, the shops blending into one another. It was pestering him beyond belief that Madoka felt the need to keep away from him. True, she was dating Tsubasa now. But was there no chance for them? Did she really forget about them? Did she love Tsubasa so much? Maybe it was best if he didn't ask and therefore had faith in Madoka's judgement. But what he didn't understand was why she was contradicting herself. She said she couldn't be with him, yet she gushed that she missed him. She acted like she had gotten over him, yet she kissed him. Or had he kissed her, and she had kissed him back?

Whatever the circumstances had been, it still was a kiss by any standards. Ginga gazed up and saw he had walked right past the old Beyblade training center. A nostalgic smile was embedded on his lips, as a memory of a fifteen-year-old going through a Beyblade contest popped up. It had seemed so long ago that he'd just been a normal teenager, beyblading with friends. So long ago had it appeared that he wasn't anything out of the ordinary. And now…he was probably the most famous beyblader in his world, excluding people like Ryuga or his father, of course. His smile faltered a bit. If only his parents had been around to watch him grow up…Remorse crossed his features for a moment and then it passed. He would always love and remember his parents, but he couldn't let his regret and grief concerning their deaths ruin his life.

Suddenly in the mood for a huge burger, Ginga began to head to Benkei´s Burger restaurant, when someone caught his eye. About a few yards away, across the street, was Tsubasa Otori. Ginga had trouble recognizing Tsubasa at first, but once he really thought about it, he remembered his features. He was wearing an expensive, black, business suit and looked as if he was in a hurry. Unable to tear his eyes away, he watched him enter a jewelry shop. The shop´s name was Tiffany & Co. Ginga didn't know much about jewelry, but he was sure that this was an expensive one. This struck Ginga peculiar, because the shop was clearly not meant for men. Why would Tsubasa come to such a shop, of all places? Ginga wondered. Unable to keep his curiosity at bay, he followed Tsubasa into the shop. He observed as the shop assistant said something to Tsubasa and went to get something. Ginga felt stupid entering this shop, when he was clearly dressed way too casual for it, but he didn't care. He made his way to Tsubasa, who was standing in front of a huge display of glass, showing the shop´s jewels.

Hey there, he greeted Tsubasa, who was surprised to hear this familiar voice and turned around.

Ginga? He said surprised, seeing the red haired. Gosh, it has been ages! He exclaimed happily and hugged him, patting his shoulder.

It is good to see you, Ginga answered, though he felt as he was saying it out of courtesy.

Ginga felt a little stressed out about his greeting, not sure how to feel towards him. After all this guy was dating, the girl he loved. He just couldn't act as if they were best pals. The shop assistant returned and Ginga felt like this was the right time, to let go.

Mister Otori? She asked, smiling friendly. Here is the ring, you ordered at our homepage. I brought all sizes for your fiancée.

Ginga felt as if someone had punched him in his face.

Did she just say fiancée?

With a huge question mark on his face he turned to Tsubasa, raising his eye rows. Tsubasa chuckled at Ginga´s bewildered expression.

Did I miss something? He asked Tsubasa, while he felt as if his insides were on fire. He felt so betrayed and angry, but tried his best to hide his emotions in front of Tsubasa.

No, not yet. I am planning to propose to Madoka tonight, he answered smiling brightly. We have been going out for two years now. It seems the right time... After all, we are adults now.

Oh ...ah, I see…well, g-good for you! Ginga stuttered, clearly taken back with astonishment and fear. He couldn't help it, but wonder if Madoka was going to accept it. Would she? After she kissed him this morning? But maybe for her it was only a kiss? Maybe she wanted Tsubasa?

Tonight, the WBBA is holding a huge party. Since our negotiations with the US WBBA center went great this morning, Tsubasa beamed. He was oblivious to Ginga´s inner turmoil.

I organized a huge flash mob, to surprise her. Why don't you come to?

W-what?

Are you fucking serious, Ginga thought, he must be joking, but Tsubasa was dead serious. Angrily Ginga stared at him, not believing his words. This sick guy, only wants to show off…probably wants to show everyone that Madoka belonged to him. Ginga felt sick to his stomach and as if he had to puke. Madoka doesn't belong to you! She won't accept your proposal, he thought pissed off, even though he wasnt sure about the latter. Still he remained calm and smirked.

Sure. I will see, if I can make it, he responded between gritted teeth. You are an adult now, he reminded himself.

Great! Tsubasa was delighted.

He turned to the rings, the shop assistant presented in front of them. There was a display of different sparkling rings with gorgeous diamonds. Clearly engagement rings. Ginga wanted to burn down this shop.

Tsubasa doesn't even know her, as good as I do, Ginga thought irritated. Madoka wasn't the kind of girl that appreciated flash mops, big surprises and expensive diamond rings. She was more the type of simple but elegant things. She saw the beauty in insignificant things, like a bouquet of roses. She appreciated small presents, that didn't make her feel bad for accepting them.

Tsubasa picked a sparkling ring with the biggest diamond on top of it. Ginga doubted that Madoka would have made the same choice. But he didn't interfere. It wasn't the right thing to do.

Tsubasa didn't seem to care about the prize. He checked the ring, trying to figure Madoka´s ring size.

I'm not sure, if it's the right size, he said, looking nervous.

That is no problem, the shop assistant said, trying her best to be helpful. Though Ginga felt as if she only wanted to sell. You can still have it changed, afterwards, if it's too small or something.

Ginga rolled his eyes, clearly knowing that size 8 was too big for Madoka´s small hands. Tsubasa didn't seem to know that though.

Her size is 6, you idiot, he whispered irritated. He couldn't believe that Tsubasa didn't even know that. Tsubasa turned to him, surprised about his help.

Really? Tsubasa asked. Are you sure?

Yes, I am

I suppose I´m an idiot after all, he started laughing. I didn't have a clue. Thanks, Ginga!

Tsubasa turned to the shop assistant, asking her, if they had the same ring in size 6. Of course, they did. Ginga couldn't believe that he actually helped him out right now. Was he stupid? Did he lose his mind? Why didn't he shut up? He was helping the guy, that planned to propose to his girl!

Ginga just shrugged his shoulders, feeling beat. He couldn't stay any longer in this shop. The air seemed thin and he felt as he couldn't breath anymore. The idea of Madoka wearing this ring, made him nauseous.

I will have to excuse myself, he told Tsubasa. I must leave now.

Eh? Really? Okay, then…I hope to see you this evening.

Ginga only nodded and went out of the shop, taking a deep breath. The air felt a little better now. He realized that he had been sweating inside. He opened his jacket, trying to cool off.

Madoka isn't going to accept his proposal, right? She just couldn't…

Ginga didn't want to think about it. He started walking away from the shop, as fast as he could. When he was sure, that he wouldn't meet Tsubasa again, he entered a small by road. He didn't even care where he was walking, all he wanted was to get away. He seemed to have left the city and entered a residential area. Leaning against the wall for support, he felt his chest constrict with dread and disappointment.

Madoka. Madoka married to Tsubasa? This can't be happening! So, this was brutal reality? He stood there in shock, hurt churning into regret. He sighed feeling defeated, rubbed his eyes and then shoved his hand through his hair. If only he had made it home sooner…then maybe Madoka would be marrying him instead of Tsubasa. Regret soon turned into anger. Madoka had told him she loved him! If she had loved him why had she gone to Tsubasa? And then his flash of rage turned to hurt once more. He was still in love with her. A girl that didn't love him anymore. He didn't know how easily Madoka had gotten over him, but he knew it would take plenty of time to get over her.

Ginga had truly fallen in love that summer and he'd cherished every moment of it. He couldn't picture himself with anyone else. And now that Madoka was with Tsubasa, it appeared this unthinkable future was becoming a reality. How could she…? Wait…maybe she wasn't going to accept the proposal?

Ginga wanted to hit his head against the wall.

Why wouldn't she? After all it was him, who disappeared for 7 years! Not her perfect boyfriend Tsubasa! Ginga was getting desperate. He didn't want to leave her. He never would have left her, if he hadn't lost his memories.

Fate was such a cruel bastard.

All he had were the memories…. Sweet memories of brown hair enveloping him like a curtain and dancing in the summer wind. Screw burgers, Ginga bitterly muttered to himself. Storming past the street in a blaze of rage and anguish, Ginga barreled into the nearest pub and ordered a glass of Whiskey. He had to find himself a suit soon. Tonight, he was going to attend the WBBA party, he decided.

oOo

Hikaru!

What is wrong?

There is no way, I can wear this! Madoka protested. She held up the red dress, Hikaru had brought with her. It was a beautiful satin dress, red and with a plunging neckline. It was way too sexy for this occasion and showed too much skin.

Why not?

Are you crazy? It shows way too much skin!

Come on, don't be prude!

I am not! Madoka laughed. But this is…it´s amazing! It's a beautiful dress. Really. But I can't wear it.

Hikaru rolled her eyes. This is not a debate. Put it on!

But-

No buts! I already carried it with me.

Madoka knew that Hikaru wasn't going to give in. So, she took the dress and went to the bath room to get changed. Hikaru could be so stubborn. Madoka wasn't really looking forward to the party. She wasn't in the right mood. A lot of people would be there, reporters, business men…Madoka would have preferred to stay at home. But she couldn't do that. Tsubasa had sounded so happy at the phone, he had been beaming with joy about the outcome of the negotiations of his meeting.

When Madoka turned around and had a look at herself in the mirror, she gasped. The dress was eye-catching and way too naughty. The neckline was nearly reaching her belly button. Madoka had never wore a dress like that. It showed a great part of her breasts and revealed a lot of her back. The cloth of the dress hugged her body in all the right places and made her look thin and sexy. She didn't think that it would look so great on her.

Hikaru knocked on the door. Are you finished? She asked. We don't have much time left, we still must do your hair and make-up. Hikaru didn't wait for Madoka´s answer and entered the room.

OH MY GOD! This looks absolutely stunning! You have to wear it!

Madoka smiled. It is really an incredible dress, she agreed. But don't you think it is too much?

No! A big fat no! Its made for you, Madoka! Come on.

Jeez, okay, Madoka grinned. She had to admit that she liked the dress very much too. It made her look sexy, attractive and feminine. She never wore something like that before. Why shouldn't she give it a try?

Suddenly Madoka caught herself wondering, what Ginga would think if he saw her in that dress. She blushed fiercely. What the hell? What is wrong with me? She scolded herself. There is no way, Ginga is attending the party. And I really should not be thinking about him, in first place.

AN: Finally! Its done! Thanks a lot for reading this chapter :-* :-* :-*

I love you guys! Please don't forget to write me your opinion. Im looking forward to reading it.

Have a wonderful day! XOXOX