At the WBBA center:

Madoka and Hikaru arrived at the lobby of the WWBA, half one hour before the official party started. The catering service was already there, and many people were already gathered there. Madoka had the feeling, as if this evening was going to be very exhausting.

She had a look around. Tsubasa really did a great job with the decoration team and everything. He had been very generous, and the WBBA lobby looked like a new place. Everything was absolutely stunning and breath-taking. Madoka went to great the first guests. She hadn't spotted Tsubasa yet and Hikaru had already went to the buffet. It seemed as if the pregnancy had increased her appetite. On their ride here, Hikaru had already taken a stop at KFC´s drive-in and now she seemed hungry again. Madoka only smiled, when she saw her best friend aiming for the desserts.

The guests complimented Madoka a lot on her dress and made her feel proud, to wear such a bold dress. Madoka never had been the type of girl, to wear such dresses. When she saw Tsubasa in the crowd, she went for to him. The lobby was getting more and more crowded with people, it seemed as if the PR did a huge job on this party. Many reporter and famous people were invited to this party. Madoka usually didn't like so big crowds, but for the sake of Tsubasa´s happiness, she was willing to go through it.

Madoka, there you are, he greeted her with a huge grin. Though Madoka had the feeling that this smile didn't reach his eyes. She knew Tsubasa well. It seemed as if he was mad about something. But since they were in front of people, his professional smile- the smile of Tsubasa, the WBBA director- wouldn't leave his face. Madoka wondered what made him upset. But instead of asking him, she introduced herself to the group around Tsubasa. They talked a little about the lobby, the WBBA and politics. Then she and Tsubasa left the group and headed for some drinks.

What is wrong? Madoka asked him, when there were no people around them. She had a feeling, that Tsubasa was angry with her. Though she had no clue why.

Tsubasa didn't reply first and handed her a glass with red wine. Madoka took the glass and watched him emptying his own glass within seconds. His behavior was starting to worry her.

You really don't know why I'm mad at you? He asked with an angry glare in his eyes.

Obviously not. Or I wouldn't ask. Madoka replied, feeling herself getting irritated.

It is your dress! Tsubasa hissed at her.

Madoka almost laughed at him. Her dress? Seriously?

What is wrong with my dress, she asked with a smirk. Though she already knew why Tsubasa didn't like it. It was clear, that he didn't like it since it was bold and red. He probably had wanted her wear something boring and formal. Well, Madoka didn't like that side of him. He wasn't going to decide for her, what she was going to wear. And if this dress was appropriate for this party or not. She was a grown woman. Not some child, he could boss around.

Tsubasa took a second glass of wine, before he replied.

Your dress is not appropriate for this party, he told her with an annoyed voice. As if he had to explain to a three-year-old, that she wouldn't get the toy she wanted.

Madoka only glared at him.

This is a party, okay? She spat at him. Besides, you don't get to decide what I wear and what not. And just so you know, many colleagues of your company complimented me on that dress.

With these words, she rushed away and disappeared into the crowd. Hoping, that Tsubasa wouldn't follow her. He didn't.

Madoka felt stupid for arguing with him. Especially about such an irrelevant reason. But Tsubasa was really irritating her. Why did he have to be so bossy? She wasn't his employee, he could boss around. She was his girlfriend! He could have said something nice to her, compliment her. But instead he was going on her nerves.

Madoka went to the buffet and took a small plate with sushi. She started eating, when she heard someone call her name. She knew that voice.

Madoka?

She turned around and almost choked on the sushi, she was eating right now. Ginga stood in front of her. He was wearing a tuxedo and looked gorgeous. It was the first time, Madoka saw Ginga wearing a tux. Madoka felt herself blush. Why did she have to meet him now? When her mouth was stuffed with food?

She did her best to swallow her sushi and smile at him, at the same time. Her throat ached a little, since the bite had been a little too big.

Ginga, she greeted him. It's good to see you.

Though, if she was honest, the last time, she saw him, she refused his feeling and kissed him afterwards. Therefore, she wasn't sure, if he really wanted to see her. Or if he was even pleased to see her.

His smile seemed genuine though and it reached his eyes.

I didn't mean to interrupt you, while eating, he confessed with a low chuckle. A chuckle, which made Madoka knees feel weak. Get yourself together, she thought. Of course, he noticed, that she was eating like a glutton.

The sushi is really good. Have some, before its gone, she said with a red face.

Ginga only smiled. Somehow Ginga always had a way to make her feel calm and less embarrassed.

Sure, why not. He winked at her. Madoka felt herself get stiff, when Ginga came closer to her, so he could get to the buffet.

If only she could erase this kiss from her memory. But she couldn't. Like a stalker, she watched Ginga getting himself a plate with sushi. She even stared at his lips, while he ate. God! Something was seriously wrong with her!

I didn't know you would come tonight, she confessed in a hushed tone.

I didn't plan on coming here. He replied and Madoka frowned. Then why did he come? She asked herself.

I was invited to come, Ginga told her, knowing what she wanted to ask. I'm glad I came here, tonight, he said with a rough voice.

Madoka looked at him puzzled.

Or else, I wouldn't have had the chance to see you.

Madoka didn't know what to say. She only felt her eyes getting bigger.

And not seeing you tonight, especially when you are wearing such a beautiful dress, would have been a crime.

Madoka´s heart beat increased. Badly. She didn't know how to respond.

Ginga didn't seem to mind her silence. He stared openly at her and Madoka felt as if he was scanning her body with his blazing eyes. Suddenly she felt very hot and excused herself, going outside for some fresh air. Ginga wanted to come along, but Madoka refused. It really didn't seem like a good idea for them to leave the lobby together. Not when so many people were watching her and Tsubasa tonight. Not when Ginga´s stare was making her feel hot and dizzy.

Madoka almost fled from the lobby. She was feeling exhausted. Never did she imagine, that Ginga would show up tonight. The chilly air helped her calm down and she hoped, her face wasn't red like a flashing light. She didn't expect Ginga to compliment her on the dress. She didn't expect him to even speak with her. After all, she did something horrible to him. First, she declined his feelings and then she kissed him? Or did he kiss her? But why did she let him?

She was dating Tsubasa after all and Ginga wasn't her boyfriend. Not anymore.

This is all so confusing, she sighed. Maybe hitting her head against the wall would help her? Madoka felt herself losing control of her composed and calm self, which made her feel afraid. She didn't want to know how Tsubasa would react, if he knew, Ginga was still in love with her. He would totally freak out.

After some time, Madoka returned inside the lobby. The party was an enormous success. As it seemed, everyone was enjoying the party, expect of her. Madoka hated being here and all she wanted, was to leave. The music was loud and going on her nerves.

Suddenly Tsubasa appeared in front of her. He seemed to have forgotten all about their earlier argument. He was beaming with joy. Probably because the party was going so well.

Want to dance, with me? He asked her.

Sure, why not. Madoka muttered, though she didn't want Ginga to see that.

She still liked him, as a friend and maybe even more. She didn't want to hurt his feelings. And she knew that he didn't want to see her in Tsubasa´s arms, but how could she refuse Tsubasa? He was her boyfriend. Madoka was tired of this situation.

The music abruptly changed and Madoka wasn't sure, if Tsubasa gave the DJ a secret sign. But she had been too deep in her own thoughts, to notice. The music had been fast and loud, now the DJ changed the song into a slow and sweet melody. Madoka knew this song.

It was a thousand years by Christina Perri. She used to love this song. She had listened to it, when Ginga suddenly disappeared, since she believed that their love was strong enough to overcome everything. Madoka felt that it was very ironic, that this song played, now.

While she was dancing with Tsubasa instead of Ginga.

I have died every day waiting for you.

Darling don't be afraid…I have loved you…For a thousand years…I'll love you for a thousand more

The memories washed over her and made her eyes burn. She couldn't start crying. Not now.

Tsubasa noticed that Madoka´s hand started shaking in his. He misunderstood her reaction though. He thought she was almost crying because she was so happy. Suddenly pink rose petals started raining down on them and Madoka realized with shock, they were the only couple left, that was dancing.

Tsubasa´s surprise for Madoka started now. A few people from the crowd circled them and started singing along to the song. Madoka didn't understand what was happening.

Why did Tsubasa prepare this surprise for her? It didn't make any sense. Her birthday was months ago and she couldn't think of any other reasons for him, to plan such a huge surprise for her. She didn't know if she should laugh or cry.

In the corner of eyes, she spotted Ginga, who was staring at her. And she felt horrible. Even though this hadn't been her idea. She hated seeing the hurt in his eyes. She avoided looking at Ginga´s direction. Instead she watched Tsubasa, who was looking at her with a dreamy expression.

What is going on, here? She asked him nervously. She hated being in the center of attention.

He didn't respond. He only smiled at her, holding her in same position, as when both them were still dancing.

Tsubasa? She asked worried.

This is going on, Tsubasa chuckled and went down on a knee.

Madoka felt as if someone was playing a bad joke with her life. Was this really happening? Was Tsubasa proposing? In front of all this people?

Yes, he was! Tsubasa took a small blue package out of his pocket and Madoka watched him, totally horrified.

Madoka, would you marry me? Tsubasa asked. Madoka felt herself trapped, like a mouse inside an experimental laboratory.

Did she even have a choice? There was absolutely no way, she could refuse him. Even if she wanted to.

Tsubasa would be humiliated. In front of everyone.

Madoka hated such big surprises and Tsubasa knew that. Why would he do that? Propose to her in public? Organize a flash mob and rose petals? Why? Why? Why?

Madoka felt tears slide down her face.

Yes, she whispered and felt horrible. Really horrible.

Tsubasa mistook her tears for tears of joy. He got up and put the ring on her finger. It fitted perfectly. It was an expensive ring with a huge diamond. The ring didnt feel right on her hand, even though it was her size. Madoka forced herself to smile at him, while the crowd around them shouted happily. They applauded.

Tsubasa kissed her and Madoka let him. She had no choice. She broke Ginga´s heart and maybe her own too.

oOo

It was pretty safe to say that is was past twelve pm, Ginga Hagane was way past the stage of tipsy and into full-blown drunkenness. He was unable to stand up straight, each step was a near stumble to the concrete, and he was unable to speak without inserting a huge slur. For the most part, despite the fact Ginga rarely touched alcohol, he could hold his liquor relatively well. But he'd lost track of how many shots he'd had and that's when things got fuzzy. Somewhere in the sober part of his mind, Ginga knew that drinking wouldn't solve any of his problems. He would wake up with a terrible headache and Madochan would still be engaged. Nothing would have changed. Well, except for the splitting headache part.

But despite this, Ginga drank so much that for the first time in his life, he was kicked out of a pub for disorderly conduct and obnoxious demeanor. Amazing, really, that Ginga Hagane, the Legendary Blader, would be thrown out of a bar because he'd had a little too much alcohol. Was it really his fault that the clumsy drunk next to him, had nearly spilt beer all over his shirt? His new white shirt? Ginga hadnt have the nerve to change his clothes. He was still wearing his tux. He only had opened the first three buttons of his white shirt and taken off his black jacket. His shirt was ruined now.

Then again, at that point, Ginga was no better than the drunken stranger, either. Luckily, no one he knew had been present. As he scowled at the closed door of the Irish pub, he shoved his hands in his pockets and began aimlessly walking down the streets of Metal City, completely oblivious to anyone in his way. He'd intended to drink a bit to forget about Madoka for a while. But it didn't get him anywhere. She seemed to be the only thing on his mind now…haunting him…memories of her lingering too close for comfort. She had been way too beautful in her red dress.

When people drank, some turned into raving lunatics. It brought out a violent streak. When other people drank, they got noisy and obnoxious, laughing at everything and anything that sounded remotely like modern Japanese. When some people drank, they retreated into a shell, quiet and appearing depressed, as though all the energy were drained out of them.

Ginga discovered he was more, like the last type. Maybe it was because he had already been in a terrible mood. But he didn't feel like laughing or smiling at all. His heart ached and his head hurt and all he wanted to do, was successfully pretend for a moment that the girl, he was supposed to marry wasn't going to be walking down the aisle with Tsubasa. He thought or maybe wished, she would decline his proposal. But why would she? He was a rich and smart guy.

Not like him. He was the bad guy. The guy who left her for seven years without any signs.

Ginga groaned. His head ache was getting worse. All he wanted to do was lie down, maybe have another drink and then drown in an extremely deep sleep. Squinting his eyes to focus, he fumbled in his pockets for his phone. A few minutes later, he had called a cab, that brought him back to his flat. He muttered a curse as he tripped over his own feet and with a shaky hand, he turned the lights on. The house was quiet and still, to the benefit of Ginga. He dragged his feet to the kitchen and got himself a bottle of whiskey. Taking a few sips, he shoved it on the counter, nearly spilling the bottle's contents. He shrugged and figured he'd clean it up later, when he wasn't tripping over his own two feet. What difference would it make anyway? His life had been flipped upside down.

Clutching onto the wall for support, he struggled into his bedroom and threw himself onto the cool, soft mattress. When did things get so complicated? Oh wait…when he had discovered Madoka was getting married…that's when. In a way, he felt somewhat guilty for her actions. What if he had written her, telling her that he was indeed alive and well? What if he had gotten home sooner…would she still be engaged to Tsubasa? He groaned, as the light blinded his eyes and sent a shooting pain between his temples. The combination of harsh florescent light and over thinking was too much to bear.

Bloody hell…I'm not drunk enough for a friendly game of 'What If', Ginga mumbled to himself. He closed his eyes and his mind drifted away to numbness. There was nothing better than some numb sleep for a depressed drunk.

Should he give up on Madoka once and for all? She still must have sort of feelings for him…even if they were diminishing by the second. It just couldn't be over for good. He didn't know what to do or think anymore. After some minutes, he drifted away into a short nap.

All of a sudden, a loud ringing bell woke him up. Ginga cursed. He had been on the verge of falling into the deep and drunk slumber, he needed. Who had to visit him now? At this time of the day? It was probably 1.00 am now. Ginga thought, he might ignore his visitor, but the doorbell rang again.

I am going to kill this person, Ginga thought, as he got up from bed and went to open the front door.

AN: So...that is all, Ive got for you guys. Im sorry about the cliffhanger. :D :D

I love cliffhanger!

Okay, I dont want you guys to hate me now. I have been very late on my updates and as an apoplogy, I am going to upload the next chapter within 24 hours. I swear it! You are getting the next chapter tomorrow! So stay tuned. xD

Oh, by the way: the song "A thousand years" by Christina Perri was released 2011. So it has been 7 years! I am still in love with this song!

hehehehe ;-)