[Ion stood as soon as Jonouchi entered (it was only polite, after all), glad that he had already been working on his smile once more. He does his best to make it appear soft, and gives a light chuckle.]

Hello, Jonouchi. It's good to see you. [It felt as if it had been such a long time. But maybe that was just due to how preoccupied he had been lately.]

I'm fine, really. Just a little tired. I haven't been sleeping so well lately.

[It wasn't a lie, anyway. Just...barely the tip of the iceberg.]

Before he could make any more elaborate explanation, Ion found himself saved by the arrival of Anise. Regardless of the fact that he doesn't doubt she can see straight though his facade, he only smiles more widely.]

Not at all, Anise. I'm glad you could make it.