The sun was setting over the bustling city of Lumiose, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Ash Ketchum, recently crowned Pokémon World Champion, strolled through the streets, savoring the victory and the peaceful evening. He marveled at the architecture of the city, a far cry from the familiar sights of Pallet Town. As he admired the grandeur of the structures around him, he felt a tap on his shoulder.
"Hey, Ash Ketchum! Do you remember me?"
Ash turned around, squinting slightly against the setting sun. Standing before him was a young woman with bright, determined eyes and a confident stance. Her long teal hair was now tied back in a high ponytail, and her outfit was still a casual apparel attire. For a moment, Ash's face lit up with recognition, but then he faltered.
"Um… I'm sorry. I don't think I know you."
Katie's face fell, and she pouted in an exaggerated fashion. "Oh, come on! It's been a while, but I thought you'd remember me!"
Ash scratched his head, trying to recall. "I'm really sorry. I've met so many Trainers over the years… Could you remind me of your name?"
Katie's pout deepened. "Katie. We had a battle in the Hoenn region. Remember now?"
Ash's eyes squinted in concentration. "Katie… Katie… Hmm, that doesn't ring a bell."
Katie huffed, crossing her arms. "We had a 6-on-6 battle in the Pokémon League! I used Venomoth, Golduck, Dugtrio, Misdreavus, Scizor, and Walrein. You had Torkoal, Pikachu, Glalie, Corphish, Swellow, and Grovyle. We battled hard, and I thought I made quite an impression!"
Ash's face scrunched up as he tried to recall the battle. He mumbled to himself, "Venomoth, Golduck, Dugtrio… Wait, didn't I face someone with a Scizor? And didn't I win in that—"
Katie's frustration grew. "Yes! I was the one who lost in that match. You were pretty good, but my team had the edge. Still nothing?"
Ash's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "I'm really sorry, Katie. I remember the battle, but I can't seem to recall your name. It's just not coming to me."
Katie sighed deeply, a mix of irritation and determination in her eyes. "Alright, fine. If you're not going to remember me from our battle, then maybe a different approach is needed."
Ash looked at her, puzzled. "What do you mean?"
Without warning, Katie leaned in and planted a soft kiss on Ash's cheek. He blinked in surprise, his face turning a shade of red that matched the evening sky.
Katie pulled back and smirked. "Does that help jog your memory?"
Ash's eyes widened, his blush deepening. "W-whoa! Uh… Katie, right? I—uh, I definitely remember now!"
Katie's smirk widened into a playful grin. "Finally! I was starting to think you'd never remember."
Ash chuckled awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, sorry about that. It's just been a whirlwind lately with the championship and all."
Katie laughed, the tension easing. "It's alright. I was just having a little fun with you. It's nice to see you're doing well after all these years."
Ash smiled warmly. "Thanks, Katie. I'm glad we ran into each other. How have you been?"
Katie's eyes softened. "Oh, you know, the usual. Training hard, trying to improve, and chasing after new goals. I've been busy, but I've been doing great."
They continued walking together, reminiscing about their battle and catching up on each other's lives. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a gentle glow on the city as the two Trainers shared stories and laughter.
As they reached a cozy café, Katie turned to Ash. "How about we grab a coffee and catch up properly? It's the least I can do after all the effort I put into making you remember me."
Ash nodded enthusiastically. "That sounds great. Let's go!"
