Somebody (Taylor's version)

“What about that guy!” Nami stops you, her hand on your wrist as you all walk through another city square. You guys landed on this island an hour ago and since you’ve been meandering through the local city trying to find the town square and a decent place to meet up in before you all inevitably split up.

Nami’s excited pointing at a wanted poster of another pirate. She’s waiting for your response and you can’t help the way your eyes wander over to the rest of the guys to see if they’re paying attention. You, Nami, and Robin have playing this “game” where they point out random people and try to guess your type.

You’ve tried getting them to drop it, but ever since last week they’ve been pointing out random men and women trying to see what you find attractive. It was your mistake really, when they were looking over wanted posters to see if the crews bounties went up and they happened to see a man that her and Robin both agreed was very good looking. They turned to you waiting for you to agree only to be met with an indifferent shrug and a flat “meh.”

After Nami’s initial indignant response Robin pointed out another person she thought was very pretty, to see if that was more to your style. And after three more lackluster responses from you, you made the grave mistake of admitting that you’ve actually never found anyone hot. You could see how they were handsome or pretty but you never felt attraction to anyone. They were both understanding, but because you admitted you did know when someone was good looking they became determined to know what exactly you found appealing in a person.

And so you’ve spent almost 2 weeks looking at strangers and saying things like “Yea I guess he has nice hair,” or “Her skin is amazing.” Each comment met with follow up questions as they both try to narrow down what exactly you find appealing. Nami pulls at your wrist again as soon as you both come closer to the bulletin board with the wanted poster she pointed at. You look again to the guys, it shouldn’t embarrass you to talk about this stuff and it normally doesn’t except you sort of lied.

When you said you’ve never felt that way about someone, you had been very blatantly lying because it hadn’t even been a month since you accepted you had a big fat crush on Luffy.

Luffy of all people!

The man who had zero interest in anything romantic, he literally turned down Boa freaking Hancock. He was never going to see you as anything other than a crew member and friend. And what’s worse pretty much the second you met him you knew it was only gonna be a matter of time before you fell for him. He’s just so nice! All wide eyes and honest comments. His smile is contagious, its literally impossible for you not to get swept up in his excitement. Luffy is courageous and bold, he’s so un-apologetically himself how could someone not love him?

Not to mention the second you caught feelings everything about him became unbearably alluring. His toned and scarred torso constantly on display, his strong arms barreling through the people he fights, and worst of all the way his soft hair moves in the wind on those late nights alone when he stares at you with beautiful and impossibly wide eyes asking all kinds of questions you’ve never considered before.

So a month ago you did the only thing you could and made your peace with your feelings. You like being part of the crew and you love being Luffy’s friend. It’s not his fault you caught feelings and now subsequently you find him and so many things he does attractive. You’re not gonna make it his problem you’ll just silently admire your brave and seemingly all powerful captain from aside probably until you die.

And to be totally honest romantic stuff never really interested you either, before you met him of course. You had already decided long ago before you met the crew that you would be totally fine never having a partner, getting married, or even dating.

None of it was that important not then and now that you actually like someone it still feels natural not to act on those feelings. All you really need in life is family, and you found yours so you’ll be more than fine nursing your feelings off on the side where no one can see you.

There are proper labels for it but all you need to know is once in a blue moon your mind randomly decides to catch feelings for people. The only other time it happened you were 12 and it went away after the two of you went on an ice cream date. You would say all you have to do is wait for this feeling to fade like the last time but you really don’t see that happening.

Zoro and Sanji are on the verge of fighting thankfully taking up all of Luffy’s attention as he eggs them on. You sigh and look back to Nami who’s still eagerly waiting for your answer.

“Are you embarrassed to answer in front of the guys?” Robin’s smooth voice comes up from your other side and you jump. Curse her observation skills.

“No, I just…” You can’t think of a lie. “Yea I- kind of.”

Nami blows a raspberry waving her arm dismissively “Never mind those idiots, just answer me come on, I think I’m getting closer!”

You swallow your nerves and look back at the poster, the man has black hair, tan skin, and a broad smile. Shit, she kinda is getting closer this man might as well be Luffy’s cousin or something. Have you been more obvious than you thought? Can she tell? No there’s no way you’ve totally been nonchalant about it.

Now sweating despite yourself you decide you need this little game to end before she actually does figure it out. “Y-Yea, yea he’s hot.” Nami and Robin both freeze and stare at you. Your voice comes out too loud and you inwardly cringe, you can feel someone staring.

“Really?” Nami squints at you.

“Yea! He’s got um, a really nice smile and uh- seems like a fun person.” You try your best to give genuine compliments thinking of what you would say for Luffy so it sounds legit. Heat spreading to the back of your neck.

“Yes! I knew I could get one right!” Nami locks elbows with you and Robin covers her mouth as she laughs at the other girls excitement.

“He does have a nice smile, sort of reminds me of someone.” Robin eyes you before she looks back over to the guys and presumably Luffy. Gods she fucking knows. You avoid her eyes and try to change the subject pointing at a random clothes stall that Nami immediately wants to go to. Right as she starts to drag you away you can’t help but look back out of habit. Your eyes searching for your captain and it takes no time at all for you to catch Luffy’s gaze.

He’s already watching you, and his usual grin is flat, his eyes serious. You tilt your head ready to ask what’s wrong but you forget how strong Nami is and you’re already walking away from your captain and the rest of the crew before you get the chance to even open your mouth.

There are no more questions about the attractiveness of strangers on the rest of your walk through the island. It’s just you helping carry bags as the three of you go shopping for supplies and few extra things just for fun.

By the time the sun’s setting you make your way to the agreed meeting spot, a bar that already has the others waiting inside. Naturally the tables are filled with laughter and food as the rest of the crew sits inside, looks like the others got here before you three did. You shake your head and make your way to the front to order a drink. Like hell your staying sober for this noise. Nami is suddenly elbowing you before you get the chance to flag down the bartender.

You turn to look at her a pout already forming on your face at being interrupted. But Nami turns your head to the entrance of the bar. You’re about to ask when you register the strangers face. Just as you sat down at the bar the man from the wanted poster, the one you loudly proclaimed was hot, just walked in. You instantly turn back around and try to swat away at Nami as she excitedly squeals and grabs your shoulder to shake you.

“Go talk to him! This is a sign from the freaking universe.” Excited she whisper screams trying to egg you on but you just look down at the bar hoping he goes to sit at one of the tables instead of any on the open seats beside you. Naturally, you have no such luck.

Nami’s voice only rises in pitch as the man comes to sit right beside you. This is great, this is amazing, you lie about a guy being hot once just fucking once and of course he comes to sit next to you. You hold your breath trying to school your face feeling the same heat from before on your neck. You know you’re being paranoid and hyper aware but you swear it feels like someone’s staring again!

Robin has been sitting suspiciously quiet by Nami’s other side her hand on her chin as she watches the seen unfold. Maybe its her that you feel staring but when you spare her a glance she isn’t looking at you. She’s looking past you and over to the tables where you saw the rest of the crew. Before you get the chance to look for yourself Nami is speaking again except this time she’s not talking to you.

“Hi, sorry to disturb you but my friend was wondering if you’ve ever been here before?” You tense as you realize she’s talking to the man for you. He turns confused but he quickly schools his features into a smile as his eyes meet Nami’s then come to land on you.

“Yea sorry, we’re new in town and they have no idea what to order, do you have any recommendations?” Nami continues gesturing to you then to the menu hanging over the bar. Your eyes are now locked on the man as he sighs a sort of laugh before leaning in closer.

“I’m actually new in town myself,” He looks you up and down. “But all bars tend to be same, I can order you a drink, just tell me what kind of things you like.” He leans his face on his hand coming very close to popping your bubble. It took him no time at all to pick up on Nami’s hint.

“Ah, something sweet would be fine.” Your voice is steady but the words are barely loud enough to be heard over the noise of your crew eating with the other patrons of the bar. You hate talking to strangers especially when they’re hitting on you. The man leans in even closer definitely in your space now.

“Something sweet? Hmm very fitting.” His smile widens and once more his eyes roam down towards the rest of your figure. You shiver, whatever you only asked for sweet because you know he has to get you a mixed drink and those tend to have more alcohol. Definitely way more than a beer anyway, not mention they taste significantly better.

You open your mouth to answer trying your best not to look so deadpan. It’s not this random man’s fault he happened to be the face you finally lied and caved to just to get that game to end.

But before you get the chance you feel someone’s chest as they come to stand right behind you. You flinch but immediately recognize the heat and scent that always overwhelms your senses. Luffy’s broad chest is pressed up behind you as his arms drape over your shoulders. His hands closing around your neck like a heavy necklace. He’s that much taller with you sitting down and you feel yourself straighten up.

Sure you’ve both been this close before, but he’s clingy with everyone in the crew you just wish it didn’t affect you like this. You can already feel yourself turning pink but you fight the feeling down.

“Hey I’m bored come back over with me.” His voice is matter of fact sounding just as bored as he claimed, his breath ghosting over your ear. You ignore the goosebumps running down your spine and grab his forearm trying to ground yourself.

“We were just about to order.” You state dumbly looking up and to the side to finally see Luffy’s face. You expect to be met with a pout, when he’s bored he gets very whiny, but instead your met with a tense jaw and hardened expression. He’s looking at the stranger before he feels you look up and meets your gaze. His face loses its tension and he sends you a small smile about to respond when the stranger speaks up again.

“I was just about to get us our first round you’re not actually leaving are you?” The man no longer looks amused his smile gone as he eyes the lack of space between you and Luffy. You’re about to answer, the rehearsed “sorry captain calls” on the tip of your tongue and Luffy’s arms tense and pull you further into him and away from the man.

“We can order at the table c’mon.” Luffy is only talking to you looking directly down ignoring the man entirely. He smiles but it fails to reach his eyes and before you can answer you’re already being dragged off the stool. You manage to catch the eyes of an open mouth Nami and a very smug looking Robin before Luffy lets you stand and takes your hand dragging you away.

You try to protest and look back, it’s rude right? To just leave like that, you should at least apologize. Then Luffy’s hand is under your jaw turning you back towards him as you both come to a stop. “Hey, I’m right here, what are you looking at?” His eyes are stern his mouth in a frown then he’s pulling you to his table again.

He pulls out a chair for you and guides you to sit down as he sits right next to you hand still in his. Zoro eyes the two of you on the other side of the table where Sanji is still yelling at him about something or the other as he sips his sake. The others seem engrossed in a completely different conversation. You try again to look back hoping you can at least offer Nami an apology since she was trying to set you up, but Luffy pulls at your hand before you really get the chance to see the two girls.

“Here have some of this, I’ll order more.” He shoves a mostly eaten plate your way and before you can answer he’s already talking to the waiter. So you close your mouth and resign yourself to your fate. Whatever Luffy’s intentions are you can’t let this go to your head. Luffy’s not… he’s not stealing you away, he was bored. He said he was bored nothing he did means anything. You repeat to yourself as warmth churns in your stomach and makes its way up your spine.

You stifle your own inner turmoil as Luffy turns to you again asking about the food with a wider grin. His hand squeezes yours and you try some of the meat on the plate to distract yourself. “How was your shopping did you do anything fun?” He’s watching as you finish eating and you swallow eager to answer.

You skip the actual shopping bits of your story and get straight to the part where you ran in to some marines and had to fight off a few with Robin before Nami could create a distraction so you could all run.

You assured him they should be on the other side of the island still trying to catch the mirages of you that they saw run off in that direction. He smiles leaning in closely squeezing your hand a few more times as he chimes in excitedly. His attention and his hand is only drawn away when more food arrives.

Just like that everyone else is back to having loud conversations and you spend a lot of time weighing in on an argument Ussop and Franky are having about the way a piece of machinery they saw on the island works. The next thing you know Zoro is tapping on the table trying to get your attention. Sanji is long gone now standing at the bar with Nami and Robin. They must’ve finally grown tired of arguing. You look to him and the empty bottles sitting on his side of the table. He slides one over to you and you catch it before it tips over, its still half full.

“Bring that and meet me on the ship I wanna train for a bit.” He stands as you eagerly nod. With one last look he adjusts his swords and makes his way out of the bar. It has only been a few weeks since you and Zoro started training together. Even though you’re nowhere near his skill level you really needed the practice for close combat attacks. And thanks to your devil fruit powers Zoro also gets the chance to practice the strength in his hits. You still get way more out of it than he does, but you’re glad to know he at least enjoys training with you enough to ask every now and then for the two of you to spar.

You turn to Luffy as he loudly talks to chopper and some random guy. You tap him on the shoulder knowing better than to wait for him to be done. You know damn well the man could go on for hours. He turns to you all smiles and you smile back before you let him know you’re heading back to the ship.

“Aww so soon?” He pouts leaning toward you.

“Luffy we’ve been here pretty much all night.” You laugh standing up and stretching a bit.

“Well yea, we’re having fun aren’t we?” He grabs your hand again and gives it a firm tug.

“Zoro and I will be training on deck alright? Just join us when you get back.” You reply easily giving his hand a squeeze taking the bottle of sake with your free hand before you let go.

The walk back to the ship is peaceful nothing but the sounds of the water lapping on the shore the bright moon shining above you. You take a deep breath taking in the salt in the air and smiling. You climb aboard the sunny expecting to see Zoro with his swords out adjusting the bandanna on his head. Instead your met with his sleeping figure face up on the grass. He was definitely drunk.

You eye the bottle in your hand puffing out a laugh as a strong snore makes its way out of his mouth. Well no point letting this go to waste, you bring the bottle to your lips taking a few swigs before making your way inside. The heat of the day made you sweaty so you might as well shower and get ready for bed. You finish the bottle as you gather your things and head for the showers.

-

Once you finish you get fully clothed and start using the towel to dry your hair as you make your way out. The ship is still quiet save for Zoro’s occasional snores. Guess everyone’s still partying back at the bar. Or maybe they moved somewhere else, you can’t imagine the place normally stays open so late.

Speaking of late maybe you shouldn’t have downed the rest of that bottle so fast. The warm feeling that normally comes from the alcohol is making its way through your body. In the shower you thought it was just the water and the fact that its late, but no that funny feeling is definitely the sake.

Dragging the towel over your head you walk out into the hallway when you spot that familiar head of black hair with one foot against the wall and his arms crossed hat hanging behind him.

You jump sputtering a bit, hand over your heart. “Luffy what the hell! You scared the shit out of me!” Why is he standing alone out here completely quiet you can usually hear him coming from the other side of the ship. Now his mouth is screwed shut his eye serious again. You’ve been seeing that look a lot today.

“That guy left…” He trails off eyeing your wet hair. “Wanted to make sure it was just you guys here.” He mutters looking in the opposite direction now nodding towards the door where you can still here Zoro sleeping.

“What?” Your brain works slowly maybe the alcohol is hitting harder than you thought.

“The guy you said was hot.” His frown is back and he moves to have both his feet firmly planted on the ground.

“You heard that.” It’s a statement not a question. You feel your face actually go red this time leaving the towel on your head you cover your eyes with both your hands.

Only you would be so lucky, for your captain to hear you lie about something like that. But if he heard then he knows exactly what was happening in the bar, he totally recognized him! You open your mouth your eyes still covered you want to explain, at least to him-

“Why that guy? He didn’t look stronger than me.” His voice is a lot closer and before he’s done talking his warm hands grab your wrists pulling your hands from your eyes. You blink coming face to face with his dark eyes staring right at you.

“I- what?” You stutter his face is so close to yours his hands holding you closer still.

His frown deepens at your lack of response. “Don’t you like me better, am I not hot?”

What is happening you feel yourself pull back almost losing your balance as you do but Luffy is quick to pull you back to him steadying your frame. What is he asking, why would he say that!? You search his expression to find him watching you intently his expression completely serious.

“I like you better.” Your words are quiet and subconscious you feel like he struck you stupid and all you can think to say is the truth. Though maybe you shouldn’t have said it so reverently, but your regret dies down as soon as he starts to grin again. Like he knew you were gonna say it he was just waiting.

“What’s hot about the guy. I’m a captain he didn’t even look like a captain.” Luffy brings your hands down rubbing his thumbs into your skin. The light of the hallway reflected in his eyes.

You feel your mouth dry up. You could lie again, but you feel that pull at your chest that you always feel when you’re talking to Luffy. His bold face honesty makes you want to be honest with him too. Feels like its the least you could do when he’s being so open.

Though you don’t understand why he’s comparing himself, he’s acting like… You cannot let your mind go there. He’s not jealous why would he be?

“I’m sorry you heard that captain, I…” You brace yourself, if this goes wrong you’ll blame the alcohol. “I was lying when I said he was hot, I only wanted Nami to stop asking me questions.”

His eyes are somehow brighter. “Good.” He says and finally grins big and over the top like you’re used to. He lets go of one of your wrists and turns dragging you behind him with the hand that’s still holding you. You make a noise of surprise and then go stiff as he pulls you into his room.

“Captain what are you-” He cuts you off closing the door pulling you in even further. You’ve been in here before, of course, but not so late at night when there’s no light on in the room. Plus it feels completely different after the conversation you’ve just had.

“Luffy?” You ask as he comes to a stop at the foot of his bed, but he ignores your question laughing a bit as he shoves you on the bed with gentle hands. He crawls in after you and tosses his hat on the night stand barely kicking off his sandals in time before landing gently over you. His hands snaking their way around you. Your breath hitches and you feel your mind go blank. What is actually happening right now.

“And there’s no better offering than lifting your spirits, so this time…!”, Sebek grabs your hand, reaches into his pocket with his other hand and places something hard in your palm, then closes it. It feels like a bracelet of some sort, but slightly damp…? It’s as if Sebek’s palms were sweaty before giving it to you. That’s something you noticed a lot lately, you considered asking Lilia why his hands have been sweating so much, but you wanted to save him from the doting.

“Wow, thanks, Sebek.”, you smile awkwardly, then look down and try and open your hand, but Sebek quickly puts his back over yours and sits close to you. “Don’t look yet! It needs your full attention, not one little thing shall take your eyes off of it…”, he trails off, getting weirdly quiet. When you look up at him, you notice him making this strange face, something between a cringe and a pout. You noticed that he’s done that a lot too, but when you asked him about it, he just snapped and claimed he had ‘training to do’.

The silence was a few moments away from becoming uncomfortable before Sebek speaks up again, “Feathers, I see you were reading the book I gifted to you last week. You’re obviously enjoying my selection, I knew I’d choose the best one!”, he grins as he boasts, which you’ve learned that he does it mostly out of embarrassment. You just nod, thinking that you’re helping him out by not reacting much, but it actually makes him feel sad and that he’s bothering you, not that he’ll tell you. “Well, Feathers,”, he gives your hand a squeeze as he stands up, “I’ll take my leave now, I don’t want to interrupt any more of your reading time.”

He finally lets go, then scurries off like something that’s ten times smaller than his actual size. You sigh and shake your head, wondering if he hit his head recently. Not that you didn’t appreciate it, but Sebek’s been acting so weird lately. He keeps giving you gifts every three days, some as simple as some fruit in a basket, and some as off putting as a vile of his tears. You didn’t know he could cry in the first place, much less cry enough to fill a whole vile. Sebek said they were ‘tears of passion’ to show how much he cares for you, but you feel like he would’ve been better off calling you his best friend.

Speaking of calling you things, Sebek keeps calling you ‘Feathers’ and sometimes ‘Tweety’ when he’s feeling more affectionate. He NEVER calls anyone besides Lilia and Malleus by any nicknames, and even then they’re technically titles and not nicknames. He doesn’t even call Silver anything and they’ve known each other long before NRC, he doesn’t even call him ‘human’ like he does with literally anyone else. You don’t mind the nicknames, but you almost feel like he’s expecting you to call him something back. At this point, you might ambush him with interpretive dance to see if it’ll get him to settle down with…everything.

Like Sebek acts like it’s his sworn duty to walk you back to your dorm every night. He would make you go with Malleus every time you eat lunch in the cafeteria, since Malleus practically scares everyone in line, so you’d both get first dibs on everything. Malleus didn’t mind, just happy to be making a new friend, you on the other hand wanted to back away like everyone else. Sebek would even offer to do the most mundane things for you, but in the most unhinged way possible.

Grabbing you a sheet of paper when you need to write down notes, even though you clearly had plenty in your notebook. Tying your shoes even if they were the SLIGHTEST bit loose, bending down on one knee as if it were a sacred practice. But the most unhinged was last Friday, he pulled you close to him and didn’t let you go for ten minutes straight. It WAS a little chilly outside in the woods, but not chilly for him to act as a human blanket. It was so absurd, you didn’t even question how or why he even followed you into the woods.

You don’t even question why he’s been so adamant on being all over you. Even in public surprisingly, though in those situations he just stands obnoxiously close to you, but it still counts. It’s not that you didn’t care, it’s just that you had bigger things to worry about. Sebek being affectionate was the least concerning of his…behavior lately. In fact, you feel kind of honored since you never see him be this soft with anyone else.

Later on the still lovely Tuesday, you were in potionology class and you and Silver were partners. You and Silver were great friends actually, having lots of things in common help you two become close. While you guys were mixing your assigned concoction. Silver looks at you with a serious look in his eye, “[Name], I know this might not be the best time, but I need to talk to you about something.” “Oh, sure. What is it?”, you say curiously, but you secretly hope it wasn’t anything too upsetting. “Do you not like Sebek or something? He says you haven’t been taking his courting very well.”, he looks concerned, but also worried on Sebek’s behalf. “He’s been trying so hard, y’know, and if you don’t like him back, you should put a stop to it before this goes any further-…”

“WOAH, WOAH, WOAH…!”, you yell for the entire class to hear, earning you a couple dirty looks, making you feel a little bashful, but you continue, “Courting???” As soon as Silver sees the shock and confusion on your face, he remembers you’re more clueless on fae culture than he is on human culture. He looks at you with second hand embarrassment, then says something along the lines of, “I’ll let him explain”, but then he starts to feel drowsy and cuts himself off, leaving you to worry more about his safety at the moment.

That night in Diasomnia, Silver finds Sebek in his dorm room, usually at this time, he’d hear him saying his nightly prayers to his Malleus portrait, but now he hears him just grumbling to himself. “Sebek? Are you feeling alright?”, Silver ask softly as he approaches Sebek. Sebek huffs and gives him an almost offended look, “NO! I am NOT okay! I don’t know what I’m doing wrong, usually in couples, after the third day, your partner would reciprocate! If they’re shier, maybe five, but it’s been over a MONTH now. AND-…!” “Sebek.”, Silver calmly interrupts, “They don’t understand fae courtship. They were raised among humans, remember.”

Sebek jaw drops as if he was just told the sky was falling, which to him it might as well be because how could he forget one of the most important things about the very person he’s perusing. He felt so silly, he was so busy being glad that you were fae, so you would understand what humans would consider strange, that he wasn’t thinking about how SILVER of all people understood the rituals more than you. Sebek shoos Silver away after a minute, then he writes down a strict, five page plan on how to court you properly in a way that the both of you could understand.

Especially when the moment Zoro cracked his knuckles across the table and gave you that look.

The one that says: I’m not losing.

You give him the exact same look back, because neither are you.

“Last round. With the three of you.” Nami announces smugly, shuffling the cards “Winner takes all.”

You and Zoro lean forward at the same time.

Competitive energy radiating like two angry thunderstorms about to collide.

Across from you, the rest of the crew watches with barely contained excitement.

This is not about the game anymore.

This is about pride.

Honor.

Ego.

And unfortunately… you remember you two aren't the only two playing. In fact, you both lose.

You stare at the table.

Zoro stares at the table.

Then slowly you both look up and scowl.

“Rigged.” you say flatly.

“Tch,” Zoro clicks his tongue “obviously.”

“Skill issue.” Sanji says immediately, lighting a cigarette.

“You’re just mad you didn’t even make it to the final round.” you snap.

He gasps like you stabbed him.

Zoro snorts.

You elbow him but he elbows back harder.

“Anyway,” Usopp claps loudly, eyes sparkling with chaos, “losers have to pay the price!”

You narrow your eyes “…Price?”

Zoro cracks his neck “Whatever it is, make it quick.”

Huge mistake.

The crew immediately huddles together in a tight circle, whispering like cartoon villains.

You and Zoro are left outside like two rejected bodyguards.

You cross your arms “This is stupid. Technically I arrived second. This doesn't mean losing… who made this dumb rule."

“Tch. Just a waste of time.”

You both lean closer to eavesdrop.

They turn their backs.

You both glare.

“What do you think it is?” you mutter.

“Probably something dumb,” Zoro replies “like chores.”

You both pause at the thought.

“…I’d rather fight a sea king.” you admit.

He nods immediately “Same.”

The circle breaks. They’re smiling. All of them. Even Nico Robin, which makes it worse… That woman only smiles when something dangerous is about to happen, you know. 

Your instincts scream. Run.

“So…” Nami says sweetly, hands behind her back.

You don’t trust that tone.

“You both,” she continues, pointing between you and Zoro, “have to go on a date.”

“With who?” You ask innocently but as an answer everyone looks bad at you. Here you understand what they mean.

“No.”

“No.”

You and Zoro speak in perfect sync. Then pause to look at each other.

Scowl deeper.

“Absolutely not.” you add.

“Tch. Over my dead body.” he says.

“Aww,” Usopp fake-pouts “Are you two scared?”

You stiffen.

Zoro stiffens.

“We’re not scared.” you snap immediately.

“Yeah,” Zoro growls, “just not interested.”

Sanji smirks, “Then prove it.”

You narrow your eyes “Prove what?”

“That you’re not intimidated by a simple date.”

You feel your pride physically rise.

Zoro’s aura darkens beside you.

You both know what they’re doing, you both see their trap… but you both walk straight into it anyway.

“Fine, I'll show you.” you say.

“Tch. Fine.” Zoro echoes.

The crew explodes with cheering and capping.

You immediately regret everything.

And now… now you’re here. Sitting outside a cute pastry shop on some random island.

On a date.

With Zoro.

You hate everything.

The table is small and round.

Romantic.

Disgusting.

Both of you sit there, slouching like you’re attending a funeral.

You stare at the street.

He stares at the sky.

Neither of you looks at the other.

The silence is thick enough to cut with one of his swords.

“This is stupid.” you mutter.

“Tch. Obviously.”

You both keep looking away.

A couple walks past holding hands.

You both look even further away.

A bird chirps.

Then he speaks out of nowhere “You’re doing it wrong.”

You freeze and slowly turn your head “…Excuse me?”

He finally looks at you and smirks.

That stupid, smug, infuriating smirk “You usually would at least pretend you’re good at this. Just for the sake of winning for your own ego.”

Your eye twitches.

“I’d be good at it,” you snap, “if I wasn’t stuck here with you.”

“Oh yeah?” he leans forward slightly “You think you could do better and not be this boring?”

Your competitive instincts ignite instantly “Easily.”

He scoffs “Prove it.”

“Oh, I will.”

And just like that it becomes a competition.

“Oh wow,” you say dramatically, looking around, “this place is soooo nice.”

“Your acting is terrible.” he says flatly.

“At least I’m trying.”

“You’re trying too hard now.”

“You’re not trying at all.”

“Because I don’t need to.”

You gasp “Your ego is insane.”

“You noticed?”

“I noticed you’re insufferable.”

“Takes one to know one.”

You’re both leaning forward now and actually looking at each other.

“You’d be the worst date ever.” he says.

“You literally get lost walking in straight lines…” you reply. 

“At least I don’t talk in my sleep.”

You freeze “…How do you even know that?”

He smirks wider.

You hate him so much.

Before the argument can escalate into an actual brawl a shadow falls over the table.

You both look up.

A sweet old lady stands there, smiling warmly, holding a tray of pastries.

“Here you go, dears.” she says kindly, placing them down.

You both stare at the pastries, then at each other, then back at her.

“…We didn’t order these.” you say cautiously.

She chuckles and points behind you “Those nice friends of yours sent them.”

You and Zoro turn slowly and there they are… at a table across the street… the entire crew.

Grinning.

Watching like it’s a live theater performance.

Luffy and Chopper are  the only two completely oblivious, already inhaling sweets like vacuum cleaners.

Usopp gives you two thumbs up as if he's encouraging you two to continue.

Nami smiles and nods mockingly.

Sanji is just staring, he looks mad.

Brook is taking notes.

Robin and Franky smile like proud parents.

You feel your soul leave your body.

You turn back and Zoro is already scowling. Vein popping. Eye twitching.

You mirror him perfectly.

“I'm going to kill them.” you whisper.

“Tch,” he mutters darkly “I'll help.”

You both look at the pastries again. Then at each other.

Same thought.

You grab one.

He grabs one.

You both take a bite at the exact same time maintaining eye contact like it’s a declaration of war.

And somehow despite everything, the corner of his mouth twitches, like he’s trying not to laugh.

Which is unacceptable.

And just as you continue, the crew is whispering loudly. You hear snorts. You hear stifled laughter.

You hear Usopp failing miserably at whispering “I THINK THEY’RE MAKING EYE CONTACT—”

“SHUT UP!” someone hisses.

You close your eyes. Breathe in. Breathe out.

You lower the pastry.

“So.” you say flatly.

Zoro’s eye twitches “Yeah.”

“We should leave.”

“Yeah.”

You both stand at the same time, in perfect sync.

The old lady behind the counter smiles like she just witnessed a romance movie climax.

You feel a migraine forming.

You don’t even look at the crew as you walk away.

But you can feel them like a curse… a presence… a disturbance in the force.

You and Zoro walk side by side in silence, boots echoing against the cobblestone streets.

The city is lively.

You shove your hands into your pockets.

“This is still stupid.” you mutter.

“Tch. Obviously.”

At least he’s consistent.

You walk for a while.

You glance sideways.

Zoro is unusually calm. Hands in his pockets. Looking around lazily like this is just another day.

You narrow your eyes.

Why is he not mad while you’re furious? He should be furious too.

A loud crash echoes behind you, followed by a very familiar voice “OW—!”

You stop walking and you turn around, AND there they are… trying to hide behind a fruit stall but failing miserably.

Half the crew… not even subtle.

Usopp is crouched behind a basket that is clearly too small to hide him. Nami is pretending to inspect oranges while staring directly at you. Sanji is holding a newspaper upside down. And in the back Nico Robin waves calmly, like she’s not part of the crime.

You blink.

“…They’re still following us.” you say flatly.

“Tch. Idiots.” Zoro mutters, but he doesn’t sound mad.

That’s what gets you.

You slowly look at him.

He raises a brow “What?”

“…You’re not annoyed.”

“I am.”

“You don’t sound like it.”

He shrugs “Doesn’t matter.”

You narrow your eyes harder… suspicious.

And then a thought hits you. A terrible, brilliant, petty thought.

You slowly turn back toward the crew.

They immediately duck.

You smile.

Zoro notices instantly but instead of stopping you in whatever thing you're planning, he smirks.

You turn back forward and start walking again.

But now you have a mission.

They want a show? You’ll give them one.

You will make them regret this.

You suddenly grab Zoro’s sleeve “Come on.”

He blinks, surprised for half a second before letting himself be dragged along.

“Where are we going?” he asks lazily.

You don’t answer, you just march forward with purpose.

Behind you, the crew scrambles to follow.

You stop in front of the loudest, most chaotic street you can find. Music blasting. Performers shouting. Vendors yelling over each other.

You turn to Zoro with fake enthusiasm.

“Wow,” you say loudly “This is so romantic.”

He snorts.

You kick his foot lightly.

“Play along.” you whisper.

His grin widens. He’s enjoying this.

You spin dramatically and point at random things “Look! Matching bracelets!”

You grab the tackiest ones you can find and shove them toward him.

The vendor beams.

Zoro stares at them, then at you. Then, without breaking eye contact he puts one on.

Your brain short-circuits as you blink rapidly.

He raises a brow as to say, your move.

You feel your competitive spirit flare. You grab the other bracelet and slam it onto your wrist.

The vendor claps excitedly.

Somewhere behind you, you hear a choked noise that sounds like Usopp dying.

You keep going.

You drag Zoro to the loudest stalls. The weirdest shops. The most embarrassing spots.

You exaggerate everything. Fake gasp at ugly decorations. Overreact at cheesy couple items.

You even lean closer to him at one point just to make it worse for your not-so-invisible audience.

Your soul leaves your body a little, but the mission is bigger than your dignity.

Zoro is not helping at all.

He lets you pull him around like a ragdoll with hands in his pockets and that lazy smirk never leaving his face. Occasionally throwing in a comment just to make it worse.

“You’re really committed.” he mutters once.

You glare “Shut up.”

He chuckles.

You feel personally attacked.

You stop in front of a mirror at a random stall, pretending to inspect something shiny.

But really, you’re checking behind you and there they are.

Good. Let them watch.

Even if you have to destroy your own pride to make them regret this.

Beside you, Zoro watches you from the reflection, amused and quiet. And he has no intention of stopping.

As you keep on walking, as you’re mid-scheme, you see it.

You stop so suddenly Zoro almost walks into you.

Your eyes widen, your jaw drops and you gasp audibly and way too dramatically.

Zoro immediately narrows his eyes “What.”

You don’t answer because you’re already moving “No way—”

You bolt straight ahead.

Zoro watches you run like you’ve lost your mind. Then follows at a normal pace, hands still in his pockets, completely unbothered.

When he finally reaches you, you’re already standing in front of a game stall, practically vibrating.

It’s one of those festival booths with cheap prizes hanging everywhere.

Throw the rings and hit the targets to win something stupid.

You look like you just found heaven.

Zoro looks at the stall, then at you and then back at the stall.

“…Are you a kid?” he asks flatly.

You slowly turn your head toward him. Offended.

“You just don’t want to admit you’re a loser.”

And there it is the moment and the fatal blow.

Zoro’s eye twitches. His lazy smirk gone.

The swordsman who didn’t care five seconds ago? Dead.

You have awakened something.

“Tch,” he clicks his tongue, stepping forward “move.”

You grin.

Oh, it’s on.

Coins slam onto the counter.

The stall owner startles slightly but smiles nervously “W-welcome! Just throw the rings and—”

You’re already grabbing them.

Zoro grabs his own set.

Neither of you listens to the rules.

You don’t need rules.

You need victory.

Miss.

Miss.

Miss.

Clink.

Bounce.

Miss again.

You narrow your eyes.

Zoro frowns.

This is unacceptable.

Again.

And again.

And again.

You lean closer to the counter.

Zoro rolls his shoulders like he’s about to fight a war.

The stall owner laughs nervously “Ahaha… it’s just for fun—”

“I will win…” you mutter.

“Tch. Not before me.” Zoro snaps.

Time stops meaning anything.

People pass behind you watching with fear.

Somewhere, a performer shouts.

You hear none of it. You only hear the clink of rings, your own breathing and Zoro.

“You’re throwing wrong.” he says.

“You’re aiming wrong.” you fire back.

“At least I hit the table.”

“That’s not the goal!”

“Tch.”

You lose again.

You slam another coin down “Again.”

Zoro does the same.

The owner starts sweating.

“Y-you can try the shooting game instead—”

“No.”

“No.”

You and Zoro speak in sync.

Never looking away from the targets.

More throws. More misses.

Your frustration rises.

Zoro’s aura darkens.

You both lean so far over the counter you’re practically invading the stall.

The owner laughs weakly “Maybe… maybe take a break—”

You don’t hear him.

Neither does Zoro.

Because at this point it’s just you and him. And war.

You throw again.

Miss.

You snap “Is it rigged?? Damn!”

You slam your hands on the counter dramatically.

Zoro doesn’t even react, he just grabs another ring.

Eyes sharp.

Focused.

Terrifying.

The stall owner begins to panic. His smile drops completely.

You’re both still muttering under your breath, arguing between throws and competing like your lives depend on it.

Behind you, a small crowd has formed.

You don’t notice.

You don’t care.

“Stand back.” Zoro mutters, rolling his neck like he’s about to unleash a forbidden technique.

“It’s a ring toss.” you snap.

“Tch. Watch and learn.”

He throws.

Misses.

You gasp loudly “Pathetic.”

“SHUT UP.”

The stall owner looks like he’s about to cry. His hands tremble as he leans forward slightly, voice small “P-please leave…”

You grab another ring.

Zoro grabs another.

Neither of you acknowledges him.

Not even a glance.

You throw again.

Miss.

You slam the counter.

Zoro growls.

The owner looks like he’s reconsidering his entire career.

“Please,” he whispers again, voice shaking, “I beg you…”

But you and Zoro only hear each other, only see each other. Locked in the dumbest, fiercest battle imaginable.

And somewhere deep down, neither of you realizes you stopped caring about the crew watching a long time ago.

After many other tries you throw again but this time it wobbles.

You both lean forward at the exact same time.

The ring tilts. Balances.

And then it drops perfectly onto the bottle.

Silence.

You blink.

Zoro blinks.

The stall owner blinks.

“I GOT IT?!” You explode.

You jump up and down, hands in the air, laughing in pure disbelief “I GOT ONE IN!”

You spin around and, without thinking, grab Zoro by the shoulders “Did you see that?!”

He doesn’t jump, of course he doesn’t, but he’s looking at you and there’s a soft smirk on his face.

“Yeah,” he says quietly “I saw.”

Continue after illustration:

You’re still holding onto him when it hits you. You let go immediately, but you’re still grinning bright.

You don’t even realize that a minute ago you were trying to beat him and now you’re celebrating like you both won.

You turn back to the stall, scanning the prizes like you just unlocked a treasure vault.

And then you point dramatically where hanging slightly to the side there’s a plushie,

Green. Grumpy. Round little body. Perpetual scowl stitched onto its face.

You don’t even notice the resemblance, but Zoro and the stall owner do.

And somewhere behind you, someone snorts.

“I want that one.” you declare proudly.

The stall owner freezes.

He swallows “Y-you need three rings in for that…”

You turn slowly and your expression shifts from happy to calculating to dangerously competitive.

Everyone feels the aura change immediately.

You roll your shoulders slightly.

“Three?” you repeat.

The stall owner pales.

“B-But—!” he stammers quickly, hands flying up defensively “You tried so much! I-I’ll give it to you anyway! And— and I’ll give one of his choice to your boyfriend as well!”

Silence.

The word hangs there.

Boyfriend.

Your brain stops.

Your heart does something incredibly stupid.

You blink.

Heat creeps up your neck.

Beside you, Zoro stiffens just barely.

You glance at him.

He’s not correcting it. Not snapping. Not denying.

He’s just standing there, arms crossed, looking mildly annoyed at the implication but not offended. Not rejecting it.

Your chest tightens in a way that has absolutely nothing to do with competition, and you realize something terrifying… you don’t mind, not even a little.

“Oh…” you say weakly.

The stall owner nods rapidly, desperate to survive this interaction “Yes! Yes! Take anything! Please!”

You look back at the plushie then at Zoro.

He looks at the plushie then at you.

There’s a flicker in his eye.

He reaches up and grabs one from the side.

A different one.

The stall owner practically shoves the plushies into your hands like he’s paying a ransom “Thank you! Please enjoy the rest of the festival… far away from here!”

You don’t hear him.

You’re staring at the plushie in your arms. It’s soft, round and angry-looking.

You hug it instinctively.

Zoro watches you do it and that soft smirk of his returns.

You start walking away, quiet now.

The chaos of earlier is replaced with something… different.

Your heart is still beating a little too fast.

Your fingers brush against the plush as you hold it.

After a few steps, you notice Zoro is walking slightly closer than before.

Then without a word he holds out his plushie.

You blink “What?”

“Take it.”

“…Why?”

“Tch. I don’t need it.”

He doesn’t look at you when he says it, he just keeps walking, arm extended slightly in your direction.

You stare at the plush, then at him, then back at the plush.

Your heart does that stupid thing again.

You accept it quietly.

Your fingers brush his for half a second.

He exhales softly and you just pretend not to notice.

Now you’re holding both plushies.

You look at them, then up at him.

And for once you don’t hide your smile.

He catches it from the corner of his eye and doesn’t say anything, but the tips of his ears turn slightly red.

Behind you, somewhere in the distance, you hear faint whispering and dramatic gasps.

You don’t look back, you don’t care anymore, because as you walk beside him, plushies in your arms and something unfamiliar but not unwelcome blooming in your chest, you realize, quietly, that this stopped being about proving anything a while ago.

You walk back to the ship side by side.

Zoro walks with his usual lazy stride, hands in his pockets, expression neutral, like nothing life-altering just happened.

You reach the ship and go aboard.

Still no words about anything, just silence, but comfortable.

You stop near the stairs that lead below deck.

“…Night.” you say casually.

“...Night.”

That’s it. No dramatic pause. No lingering touch.

You turn and head to your room.

Behind you, hidden very badly behind barrels and ropes, half the crew deflates in disappointment.

“THAT’S IT?!” someone whispers aggressively.

“No kiss?!” another hisses.

You don’t hear or see them, because you’re too busy trying to understand why your chest feels warm.

Why you’re smiling, why replaying the night makes your stomach flip in a way that’s not annoyance.

You flop onto your bed, staring at the ceiling.

“…Why am I feeling like this…” you mutter.

The plushies sit beside you.

You bury your face into them to hide your smile and that’s when it hits you that you didn’t hate tonight.

You just… liked being there… with him.

The next morning is a disaster.

You step into the dining area and immediately freeze.

Everyone is there.

Brook leans forward eagerly, teacup in hand.

“Good morning!” he sings “May I ask how your romantic evening was? Yohohoho!”

You contemplate throwing him overboard.

“SUPER curious!” Franky flexes dramatically “Was it SUPER romantic?!”

“Did you hold hands?” Usopp demands.

“Did you confess?” Nami adds sweetly.

“Did you fight?” Sanji asks suspiciously.

You inhale slowly and exhale slowly.

You sit down and say nothing, you just start eating very calmly as they continue relentless.

“You brought back matching plushies!” Usopp points accusingly.

Your eye twitches but you keep eating.

Across the table Zoro sits like nothing is happening, drinking tea or whatever’s in the cup, calm and unbothered, not even reacting to the chaos.

The only difference from other mornings is that he isn't teasing you.

He just looks… anywhere but at you.

That’s new.

Days pass and something changes.

Zoro still trains, naps, gets lost somehow on the ship, and argues with Sanji…

But with you he’s… different. Less sharp and less provoking. If you reach for something, he doesn’t snatch it first as he used to. If you say something competitive, he just hums instead of biting back as he used to. 

If you challenge him, he lets you win.

You stare at him suspiciously but he avoids your gaze.

You preferred the fighting and its sparks.

Now it feels like he’s stepping back, like he’s giving you space you didn’t ask for.

And you hate that.

One afternoon, you find him alone on deck, sitting against the railing with sunlight hitting his face, sleeping or pretending.

You approach. Arms crossed.

“Are you sick?” you ask bluntly.

One eye opens.

“…What.”

“You’ve been weird.”

“Tch.”

“That’s not a denial.”

He sits up slightly “You’re imagining things.”

“No, I’m not.”

Silence.

You step closer “What’s going on?”

He looks away and scratches the back of his neck “Nothing.”

You narrow your eyes “Zoro.”

He inhales, about to speak, and then—

“NEW ISLAND!” Luffy screams from the crow’s nest.

Everyone rushes, excited yelling, footsteps thundering past you.

But you don’t move and neither does Zoro.

You’re still looking at each other with something unsaid hanging heavy between you.

He stands.

Still silent.

Soon, the ship docks.

Everyone spills out eagerly.

You start walking toward the town when—“Y/N.”

You freeze.

He rarely calls your name like that.

Quiet.

Almost hesitant.

You turn.

He’s standing a few steps behind, not looking at you but looking somewhere to the side, like the sky is extremely interesting all of a sudden.

“…You… wanna go eat something?” he mutters.

You blink.

You don’t answer.

Your brain refuses to function.

At the silence, he finally looks at you and sees your shocked expression.

His jaw tightens slightly.

“It’s fine,” he mutters quickly “I’ll go alone.”

He turns but you grab his sleeve “Wait.”

He stops and looks at your hand, then at you.

“…I’ll go.” you say.

His shoulders relax just slightly “Tch. Good.”

You both start walking side by side.

The town is lively but it feels quieter to you.

After a moment, you glance at him “So…”

He grunts.

“…Is it a date?”

He stops walking instantly.

You stop as soon as you notice.

His head snaps toward you, eyes wide for a fraction of a second “What?”

You laugh lightly “Relax. I’m joking.”

You quickly continue to walk so he doesn’t see your expression as you say “...but I wouldn’t mind if it was.”

You say it casually but your heart is trying to escape your body.

You hear his footsteps rush behind you.

Suddenly a firm hand grabs your wrist.

You turn, surprised and see him close.

His grip isn’t rough but steady and certain.

He looks at you directly.

No more avoidance.

“Then it is.” he says quietly.

You blink.

He exhales “…A date.”

Silence.

Your brain melts but somehow you relax and a soft smile spreads across your face “Perfect.”

He lets go slowly.

You both turn and start walking again like nothing monumental just happened.

Like your hearts aren’t lighter.

Like your steps aren’t a little closer.

Like this isn’t exactly what you both wanted all along.

The restaurant is loud and perfectly pirate-coded. No fancy decorations. No romantic lighting. Just noise, food, and the smell of grilled meat.

Exactly the kind of place neither of you has to pretend in.

You sit across from each other, but unlike last time, none of you is scowling.

Zoro rests one arm on the table. You sit with your hands loosely folded, pretending the menu is the most fascinating thing you’ve ever read.

Silence. Not hostile. Just shy.

You glance up and he’s already looking at you but he immediately looks back at the menu.

You blink.

A few seconds later, he looks up again and your eyes meet. Neither of you smirks or challenges, it’s softer than that.

Then the waiter arrives and breaks the tension.

You both order quickly.

When the waiter leaves, you sit there in silence again.

“So…” you start.

“So.” he echoes.

You both pause.

You clear your throat “Training’s been… good?”

“Tch. Obviously.”

You nod “Right.”

Silence.

He shifts slightly in his seat “You’ve been winning more lately.”

You narrow your eyes “You’ve been letting me.”

He huffs faintly “You noticed.”

“Of course I noticed.”

A small pause.

“…Why?” you ask.

He looks at you then away “Didn’t feel like fighting.”

Your chest does something strange at that “Oh.”

Food arrives.

You both focus on eating for a moment and it helps. Talking with food around feels less intense.

You exchange small comments about the seasoning. About the island. About how Luffy is probably already banned from three establishments.

You’re still shy but it’s not heavy, just new.

Then the drinks arrive and you stare at yours, then at him.

Then you sigh dramatically “Okay, that’s enough.”

He pauses mid-sip “What.”

“We’re being weird.”

“Tch.”

“We just have to relax,” you insist “So let’s drink a bit, okay?”

A slow smirk appears on his face.

There it is, the Zoro you know.

He lifts his glass “Fine.”

Clink.

You drink, not a lot but enough to take the edge off.

He sets his glass down and you follow.

Something shifts, your shoulders loosen, his posture eases.

You start talking again. You tease him about getting lost on the way here and he denies it.

You call him out and he calls you stubborn.

You call him worse and he smirks.

You both laugh.

At some point you’re leaning forward slightly and he is too.

Later, you step outside.

The air hits cooler after the warmth of the restaurant.

You walk side by side, not touching but close.

Your hands brush once and neither of you comments.

You reach the quieter part of the dock.

The ship is visible in the distance.

You both slow down as neither of you seems eager to climb back aboard yet.

You lean lightly, looking out at the water.

He stands beside you close enough that you can feel his warmth through the fabric of your sleeve.

You glance at him and he’s already looking at you this time.

Your heart beats faster.

“…This was nice.” you admit softly.

“Yeah.”

You smile faintly.

Another pause. Longer this time.

Neither of you moves. Neither of you steps closer. But you don’t step away either.

Your hand shifts slightly on the railing and his fingers brush yours again.

Your pinky hooks lightly against his.

He still doesn’t move but his hand turns just enough that your fingers slide into his palm.

You lace them together.

He exhales slowly.

Your heart is loud in your ears.

You’re so close now that you can see the faint scar over his eye clearly.

You don’t plan it, you don’t announce it. You just lean in slightly.

He notices but he doesn’t pull back. Doesn’t rush forward either.

You’re both terrible at initiating.

So you don’t… not fully. Instead, you lift your free hand and rest it against his chest, right over his heart.

It’s steady. Strong.

He inhales sharply at the contact and his hand tightens around yours.

You look at each other.

So close.

“If you don’t want to…” you start quietly but he cuts you off by leaning down enough that his forehead rests against yours. His nose brushes yours slightly. Breath mingling.

“You talk too much.” he murmurs.

Your lips twitch “Oh yeah?”

“Yeah.”

Neither of you moves for a second longer, like you’re both silently asking the same question.

Then you both close the distance at the exact same time.

It’s almost clumsy and hesitant, but warm.

His hand slides to your waist.

Yours tightens against his chest.

The kiss is firm but careful.

When you pull back, you’re both breathing a little heavier, foreheads still touching.

You smile first. He pretends he didn’t notice but he doesn’t let go and neither do you.

EPILOGUE

The walk back to the ship is quiet.

Not awkward, just… calm.

You and Zoro walk side by side along the dock. Your shoulders brush once in a while, but neither of you comments on it… neither of you needs to.

When the Thousand Sunny finally comes into view, you both slow down a little.

The ship is mostly quiet, a few lights are on.

You stop at the foot of the ramp.

Zoro looks at the ship, then at you.

“Well…” he says.

“Well…” you echo.

A beat of silence.

Neither of you says “so we’re together now” or “what are we going to tell them?”.

You just… look at each other and then you shrug “Goodnight.”

He almost laughs and then he nods once “Night.”

You both walk up onto the Sunny and that’s it. No announcement. No dramatic reveal.

You just go to your rooms.

The next morning, nobody asks anything because they don’t know… and neither of you brings it up. Not because you’re hiding it. It just… never comes up.

You still argue with Zoro. You still compete with him. You still sit across from him at meals.

Sometimes your knees bump under the table. Sometimes your hands brush when you both reach for something. Sometimes you catch him watching you. Sometimes he catches you watching him. Sometimes you kiss when no one is around.

The crew is completely oblivious.

Somehow even Robin, who probably knows but chooses chaos.

Weeks pass.

The Sunny sails through calm blue seas and life goes on.

Then one day… “GAME NIGHT!!!”

Luffy’s voice explodes across the deck.

The crew cheers and somehow you all end up around the big table.

Cards, dice, snacks, chaos.

And of course you and Zoro would never skip a competition.

Hours pass.

Rounds are played.

People get eliminated.

Luffy gets distracted halfway through by meat.

Chopper loses because he keeps trusting Usopp.

Franky dramatically blames the rules.

Sanji gets eliminated early and spends the rest of the time glaring.

Eventually it’s down to two players.

You and Zoro.

The crew leans in.

The atmosphere is intense.

Usopp is commentating dramatically.

Chopper and Luffy are vibrating with excitement.

“FINAL ROUND!!!” Usopp announces.

You lean forward, eyes sharp.

Zoro leans back in his chair, smirking “Tch. Ready to lose?”

You scoff “In your dreams.”

“Been winning a lot lately.”

“Because I’m better.”

He raises an eyebrow “Or because I’ve been going easy on you.”

You gasp in mock offense “Oh please.”

The crew oooohs.

Luffy is yelling something dumb.

Usopp shouts, “THE TENSION IS REAL!”

You point at Zoro.

“Don’t worry,” you say confidently “I’m gonna kiss you anyway even if you’re a loser.”

Silence.

Total.

Absolute.

Silence.

Every Strawhat freezes.

Usopp and Nami’s mouths hang open.

Chopper blinks.

Sanji drops the plate he was holding.

Brook stops mid-laugh.

Robin smiles.

Franky’s sunglasses slide slightly down his nose.

Luffy tilts his head “…Huh?”

Your brain catches up with your mouth… way too late.

You slowly look around and see nine pairs of eyes staring at you. Wide. Horrified. Curious. Exploding.

And then—BOOM.

“WAIT WHAT—”

“YOU WHAT?!”

“WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN?!”

“YOU KISS?!”

“ARE YOU DATING?!”

“WHY DIDN’T YOU TELL US?!”

“WAS IT ROMANTIC?!”

“WHO CONFESSED FIRST?!”

“DID YOU HOLD HANDS?!”

“DID YOU—”

You slowly slam your face onto the table.

Thud.

“…I hate all of you…”

The yelling continues. Questions fly over your head like cannon fire.

You stay face-down on the table, accepting your fate.

Then a warm hand lands gently on your head.

You look up and look at Zoro who is completely unfazed.

He smirks down at you.

The crew is still shouting too loudly to hear anything else.

He leans down slightly, close enough that only you can hear him.

His voice is low and amused “Told you you talk too much.”

You glare weakly and he smirks wider.

Then he adds quietly “But you’re keeping that promise… the kiss?”

Your brain short-circuits and before you can make your brain function you casually lean in and kiss him.

Right there… in front of everyone.

The crew explode.

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAA—”

Sanji collapses dramatically.

Chopper screams.

Usopp falls out of his chair.

Franky shouts “SUUUUUPERRRRR!!!”

Luffy claps like this is the best game night ever.

You bury your face in your hands as soon as you understand what you just did.

The line crackles in your ear before his voice comes through, rough and familiar.

“Baby.”

You smile into your pillow. “You sound out of breath.”

“I’m running across rooftops in six layers of body armor. What gave it away?”

Somewhere in the background, you hear wind rushing past the receiver and the distant wail of sirens. “You could just say you missed me.”

“I do miss you,” Jason says immediately, easy and honest in the way he only is with you. Then, after a beat: “Hold on.”

A muffled thud. Someone yells. Jason curses sharply. “Jase?”

“I’m good,” he says, breathing harder now. “Some idiot thought he could pull a knife on me.”

“You know, most boyfriends send goodnight texts or calls when they’re in bed.”

“Most boyfriends aren’t actively fighting crime in Crime Alley.”

You laugh quietly, rolling onto your back. “True.”

He hums and you can practically picture the grin under the helmet. “You still awake because you were waiting for me to call?”

“Maybe.”

“That’s cute.”

“Don’t start.”

“No, no,” he says. “I’m being serious. It’s adorable. Makes me feel loved.”

“You are loved.”

Silence. Not empty silence. The kind that settles warm between two people who know each other by heart. Then softer, almost lost beneath the sound of his footsteps:

“Yeah. I know.”

“Jason.”

“What?”

“Why does it sound like you’re in a tunnel?”

“I am in a tunnel.”

You sit upright immediately. “Why are you in a tunnel?”

“Tracking a weapons shipment.”

“Alone?”

He pauses.

“…Maybe.”

“Jason Peter Todd.”

“Oh, wow. Full government name. I’m terrified.”

“You should be.” 

You hear him laugh under his breath, and then the metallic clatter of something being climbed. “You know,” he says, “normal couples talk about their days.”

“We are talking about your day.”

“My day usually includes armed robbery.”

“Your life choices are exhausting.”

“And yet,” he says warmly, “you stay.”

Before you can answer, voices echo faintly through the phone. Jason’s tone changes instantly. Sharper. Colder.

“Hang on.”

You hear movement. Fast footsteps. A crash. Some muffled arguing. Another crash. The line goes fuzzy for three seconds and your stomach drops.

“Jason?”

Nothing.

“Jason!”

A hiss of static. Then, breathless laughter.

“You should hear the way you say my name.”

You nearly choke. “Are you insane?”

“Clinically? Probably.”

“You disappeared!”

“I dropped the phone.”

“You dropped me into cardiac arrest.”

“Aw,” he says. “You worried about me?”

“You literally got murdered once.”

“Fair point.”

It’s almost three in the morning when your phone buzzes with a phone call from Jason.

You answer sleepily. “Hi.”

“Did I wake you?”

“You called me. Guess.”

“Yeah, but you sound all soft.” He pauses. “Cute soft.”

“You’re obsessed with calling me cute.”

“You’re obsessed with being cute tonight.”

You hear his motorcycle engine rumbling low beneath his voice.

“Headed back to the manor?” you ask.

“Eventually.”

“That means no.”

“That means I’m thinking.”

“Dangerous.”

The engine revs louder for a moment before easing again.

Then you hear a quiet “You ever think about leaving?”

Your chest tightens. “Leaving Gotham?”

“Leaving me.” He exhales slowly.

There it is. The fear he buries under sarcasm and bullets and bruised knuckles. You sit up fully now, voice gentler.

“No.”

“You answered that way too fast.”

“Because I didn’t need to think about it.”

Silence again. You imagine him stopped at a red light somewhere in the city, helmet tipped down, eyes closed.

“I’m serious,” he says eventually. “You deserve normal.”

“Jason, I fell in love with you, not normal.”