A/N: Okay. I know that I'm a hardcore Manta x Yoh fanatic. But...I'm fond of this pairing too, and I just wanted to write some het. And well...that's all folks.

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It always used to be so awkward.

From the first time they sat there and talked, he knew that they had something...or rather...someone in common that they cared about. She'd always talk about him with a longing smile on her face, knowing eyes that held a sweet sorrow. And then he'd always answer with a comforting smile, offering something that Yoh couldn't. The only thing Yoh didn't know how to offer.

And here they sat, the wedding three days away, drinking tea as casual as could be.

They met regularly now, once every other day or so. After Manta turned eighteen he'd inherited his father's business, and rarely had the time to visit anymore. But he'd made a point to see her now and then, and she DID appreciate the company.

"So..." He started, adjusting his glasses on his nose. "So you've been busy cooking, haven't you? You were always good at that.."

"Aa...T-thank you." She accepted the comment, graciously, but she blushed all the same. "I hope they enjoy it...Ryuu-san is helping me...he's a very good cook."

"Mmhmm," Manta smiled, taking a sip of the Earl Grey she'd brewed earlier. "I'm sure they'll love it. Even Anna-san." He laughed a bit at that, remembering how Anna used to act.

"Again, I hope so." She smiled at him, and tucked a strand of cotton candy pink hair behind her ear. "Though she's been a lot kinder to all of us..." She turned away, her voice becoming softer. "I think...that she'll be a good wife to Yoh-sama."

"I suppose she will be."

"I'm okay with it, you know." She said, all of a sudden, her eyes downcast towards the cup and saucer in her hands. "I knew it was going to happen."

"I know."

Silence passed for a moment, and she set the teacup down.  "Really...I am." She repeated, looking up at him, wondering if he was telling the truth or not. He seemed deep in thought.

"I know." He finally responded, and looked up at her. She looked away, and wrapped her arms around her waist.

"I mean...they were engaged. I couldn't change it or anything...Anna-san loves Yoh-sama."

"She does. And Yoh-kuhn loves Anna-san."

"There's nothing I could've done." Her voice trembled. "Nothing."

Manta thought for a moment, and then set his tea down and pulled the girl into a short embrace.

"I know."