I do not own YGO! DUEL MONSTERS.

Some months passed after Mana's departure and soon almost a year passed until December. Snow had fallen the night before, so many neighbors were removing it from their gardens and yards, while Yami, who was alone at home, had no energy to do the same.

Things had calmed down quickly since Mahad and Ishizu decided to release any information. Mainly to hide the identities of Yami and Yūgi, but also to protect Bakura as the last sign of brotherly affection.

However that didn't prevent both brothers from being called to testify against him. It was very hard going through the many questions that the defense attorney asked, but they understood that it was their job after all and they just tried not to commit perjury as well as how they met Mana and related.

Thank heaven, or some force of fate, Bakura ended up confessing his guilt. Since there was accusation and confession, all that didn't last more than a month. Being a minor, the sentence was less than what they would have liked, or what he really deserved, but at least it would be enough to find peace for Mana, who due to her condition was unable to attend the interviews in person.

The last thing he knew about her, back then, was a letter that she herself dictated and asked Ishizu to deliver it to them.

In that summary note she said:

«I've found the man in the paintings, you know? This time I won't let him go before I do. Take care and, apart from a thank you, I don't expect news from you soon. -M.»

And, as asked, all he did was thank Ishizu before putting the note in his pocket.

With a mug of hot chocolate in his left hand and the TV remote control in the other, he began to change channels continuously without stopping at any one. It was just when he decided to see one of those repetitive Christmas movies that the doorbell rang.

Confused, since he didn't wait for anyone until at least lunch, Yami got up slowly as he looked for some money just in case they were those people who collected donations. However, when he opened the door, he only saw one person with their back to him.

A girl, he knew instantly. She was covered from head to toe in the cold, but her long, untamed blonde hair was slipping from all sides. She was wearing knee-high blue boots and blue jeans, as well as a warm pink jacket with some blue details like her hat and gloves.

She turned on her heel upon hearing him and an unmistakable smile as her person adorned her expression.

"It's been a while, Atem," she greeted, her rosy cheeks giving off steam from the cold.

Her voice was the same. If there was any doubt, it was already completely gone.

And before he could even react, she closed the distance between them and threw her arms around his neck in a desperate hug. Slightly stunned, Yami took a step back from the sudden weight, but soon steadied himself and returned the gesture.

"That's not my name," was the only thing he managed to say.

She laughed

"I know," she said and tightened her grip. "I know that very well, Yami."

If it was cold outside, if it was snowing, if both were practically frozen, neither felt it, because both were completely immersed in the warmth of that hug.

That hug as desired as necessary.