SoftChaosFics

The night on the Sunny was quiet..the kind of quiet where the sea hummed and the lanterns glowed soft gold..Most of the crew was already asleep so the usual chaos has mellowed out.

You sat on the railing with your tail curled around your legs..scales catching the moonlight like scattered gemstones.

You heard footsteps behind you... you didn't need to turn around to know who it was.

Sanji found you instantly..He always did..he knew you liked watching the water.

“Ah..my beautiful dragon princess,” he said, stepping onto the deck with a tray of warm tea.

“Keeping watch I see?”

You rolled your eyes but you can't help but feel your cheeks warm up..Sanji always had that effect on you...on everyone actually.

“Sanji, I’m not a princess.”

He set the tray beside you..leaning on the railing with that soft, adoring smile he only ever used around you..He's so charming...

“Of course you are,” he said.

“Every prince needs a princess.” You raised a brow with a playful smile..

“And you’re the prince?”

He placed a hand dramatically over his heart..so dramatic..

“Obviously.”

You snorted. “Pretty sure in fairy tales..the prince slays the dragon.”

Sanji froze..you can actually see him replaying the words in his head..Then he stepped closer gently cupping your cheek.

“Then those fairy tales are stupid,” he said completely serious.

“Why would I ever slay the most beautiful creature I’ve ever seen?”

Your breath caught...Sanji’s thumb brushed over a scale near your jaw, tracing it like it was something precious.

A habit he started once you two got close..

“I’d rather protect you,” he murmured. “Or cook for you. Or… just be near you.”

You looked away.. unable to keep a smile off your face and you can't let him know your flustered. “You’re too much.”

He smiled. “Only for you.”

Later, you stretched your wing..a soft movement but strong enough to rustle the air. Sanji nearly lost his balance and he was glad he was holding the railing..

“wow..” he whispered. “You’re breathtaking.. My Love.”

You blinked. “They’re just wings.”

“No,” he said, stepping closer, eyes wide with awe..like you were genuinely the most beautiful thing he's ever seen..

“They’re yours.” You felt heat rise under your scales.

He grinned, leaning in. “Careful, princess. If you keep looking at me like that..I might think you’re trying to enchant me.”

You scrunch your nose playfully and flicked your tail at him.

“You’re already enchanted.” You say with a smug grin..

He gasped dramatically. “She admits it!”

You shoved him lightly, but he only laughed.. his laugh is so contagious you can't help but chuckle.

A wave rocked the ship, and you steadied yourself with your claws.

Sanji immediately reached for you.

“Careful,” he said, voice soft but you can hear the worry in his tone.

“I can’t have my dragon getting hurt.”

You raised a brow. “I’m the one who’s supposed to protect you.”

He shook his head.

“Not tonight. Tonight I’m the prince.”

You smirked and decided to play along “And what does the prince want?”

Sanji stepped closer..brushing a strand of hair behind your ear. “Just this,” he whispered.

He kissed your forehead..gentle, like you were something sacred.

Your wings fluttered without your permission.. you didn't even have a moment to realize what happened before you saw Sanji’s eyes widened..

“Oh… that was cute.”

You covered your face embarrassed “Sanji-!” He laughed softly pulling your hands away.

“Don’t hide from me, princess,” he murmured.

“I love every part of you. Scales, claws, wings… all of it.”Your heart melted..

You leaned against him, tail curling around his leg. He wrapped an arm around your waist, pulling you close.

“Y’know,” you said quietly,

“in fairy tales, the prince and the dragon never end up together.”

Sanji pressed a kiss to your temple.“Then we’ll write our own story.”

You smiled..resting your head on his shoulder enjoying the moment.

“Yeah,” you whispered. “I like that better.”

Sanji held you tighter...warmth radiating from him like a promise.

“My dragon,” he murmured. “My princess.”

1.

You and Luffy were walking through town, and out of nowhere, he grabbed your hand.

Warm fingers wrapped around your hand.. tightly holding it like he would lose you if he let go...yet he's swinging it happily.

Your heart did a full on somersault..and yet he doesn't realize how he affects you.

“Luffy… why are you holding my hand?”

He grinned he's usual bright smile “’Cause if I let go, you’ll walk too slow and I wanna get to the food stand faster!”

Your smile froze....of course..

“Oh..Right..the food.”

He kept swinging your hand like it was the best thing ever.

You tried not to melt.

~~~

2.

You were sitting on the Sunny, enjoying the breeze, when Luffy plopped down beside you and leaned his forehead against yours. This boy really doesn't know boundaries..and if he does he's ignoring them right now...

He's close enough you can feel his breathing on your skin..it feels intimate..but knowing Luffy it's probably something silly..

Doesn't stop your breath getting caught in your throat at how close he is.

“Luffy…?”

He groaned softly. "My head’s heavy. Yours is comfy.”

He said it like that should explain everything...and y'know for him it probably does..

You kinda just blinked..

“Oh.”

He nuzzled closer. “Thanks! You’re like a pillow that talks!”

You stared at him...A talking pillow..Right.

Totally not romantic.

~~~

3.

Sanji brought out dessert, and Luffy immediately shoved his plate toward you.

“Here! Try mine!”

Your heart fluttered for a second the thought racing through your head..Sharing food? With Luffy? That practically unheard of..

You can't help but smile..taking his offer and having a bite..

“It’s good.”

Luffy beamed at you like he just won a prize..

“Great! Now you owe me a bite of yours!”

You blinked taken by surprise “Wait- that’s why you-?”

“Yep!”

He opened his mouth expectantly like this was the goal all along...but he looks so...cute

You sighed accepting your fate and fed him a spoonful.

He chewed happily..completely unaware of the emotional rollercoaster he’d just put you on.

~~~

4.

You were tying down rope when suddenly Luffy wrapped his arms around your waist from behind, chin resting on your shoulder.

Your entire body froze..

He was hugging you..which is pretty normal for Luffy but he was basically cuddling you standing up..

“Luffy… what are you doing?”

“You’re warm,” he said like it was just that simple

“I got cold.” he said like the actions were obvious he got cold so duh he's hugging you..

You can't help but swallow “You could’ve asked y'know”

He shook his head like that absolutely not an option “Nope..This is faster.”

You tried not to think about how good it felt.

He was already humming, perfectly content, completely oblivious to the way your heart was trying to escape your chest.

~~~

5.

You were sitting together at sunset, legs dangling over the edge of the Sunny. Luffy leaned against you, head on your shoulder.

It was one of those quiet moments of peace..it felt perfect.

Then he said it..

“I really like being with you.”

Your heart practically stopped..

“…You do?”

“Yeah!” he said brightly with this warm smile.

“You’re fun! And you don’t yell at me when I steal your food!”

You stared at him...

He just smiled..completely innocent.

You looked away feeling your cheeks warm up..but you try not to feel disappointed.

He nudged your arm.

“Hey. Don’t look sad. You’re my favorite person to hang out with!”

Your heart fluttered again.

Because even if he didn’t mean it romantically…

~Ace

Ace was used to attention.

Not because he demanded it..he just…got it..Almost everywhere he went.

People would stared. Girls giggled. Guys admired.. pirates everywhere knew his name.

He would smiled, and half the island melted.

So when he first saw you, he did what he always did:

He flashed that easy grin.. Tilting his head.

Leaned against the railing like he was posing for a poster.

“Hey,” he said, voice warm and smooth. “Need any help?”

You glanced at him.

A single, polite glance.

“No thanks.”

And you walked away.

Ace blinked.

Head tilted.

“…Huh?”

Ace decided to try again the next day.

He leaned over the table where you were sorting supplies, arms crossed..his muscles doing their usual “look at me” thing.

“So,” he said, lowering his voice, “you come here often?”

You didn’t even look up.

“I live here.”

Ace froze.

“Oh..Right..Yeah. That makes sense.”

You kept working.

Ace stared at you, baffled. He is not used to this.

He tried again.

“You know… most people think I’m pretty charming.”

“do they..”

“Like… really charming.”

“Mm.”

Ace blinked again.

He couldn't help but think 'am I…broken?...Or is she broken??'

Ace decided maybe you just didn’t realize he was flirting. Ya that has to be it.

So he made it more obvious.

He brought you your favorite snacks...yes he had to first figure out what it was..

He made sure to compliment your hair.

He tried carrying heavy crates past you like they weighed nothing.

He laughed louder when you were nearby. He even took his shirt off for absolutely no reason... Not that he wore one that often anyway.

Yet..you barely glanced at him.

Ace was seriously losing his mind.

So he went to Marco.

“She’s immune,” Ace whispered dramatically. “My charm isn’t working.”

Marco didn’t even look up from his book.

“Maybe she’s busy.”

“No,” Ace insisted. “She’s ignoring me on purpose.”

Marco shrugged. “Then try something else.”

Ace frowned. “Like what?”

Marco smirked. “Oh I don't know..Try being helpful.”

The next day, you were sweeping the deck.

Ace appeared beside you with another broom.

You blinked. “What are you doing?”

“Helping,” he said, trying to sound casual.

“You don’t have to.”

“I want to.” he insisted.

You shrugged and kept sweeping.

Ace swept too.

Pretty Badly...

He kept bumping into things. He kept sweeping the same spot you were sweeping.

And he kept glancing at you like a confused golden retriever.

But you didn’t tell him to leave.

And that was enough.

Like come on that's progress!

Over the next few days, Ace helped with everything you did. Or at least tried..

You washed dishes? He dried those dishes and put them away.

You organized supplies? He helped organize supplies and made it go more smoothly.

You carried crates? He carried three at once. Definitely not trying to show off.....definitely not.

And slowly… you started talking to him.Not much. Just little things...but the company was nice.

Ace lit up every time.

He would grin when you laughed. He’d blush when your hands brushed.

He even stared at you like you were the sun when he thought you weren't looking.

And you finally started noticing him.

Really noticing him....

Ace helped you finish your chore, hands brushing yours, cheeks pink, trying so hard to impress you without being obvious.

When you finished, he cleared his throat.

“So… uh… I like being around you.”

You smiled glancing at him “I know.”

He blinked. “You… do?”

“Yeah. You’re not very subtle.”

Ace’s jaw dropped.

“I- I thought you didn’t notice me at all!”

You shrugged.

“I noticed. I just wanted to see how long it would take you to say something.”

Ace stared at you mouth agape with this look of betrayed.

“You were testing me?!”

You grinned. “Maybe.”

He groaned dramatically, flopping onto a crate.

"Oh you’re evil...”

You nudged his knee. “ So do you want to take me out or not?”

Ace sat up so fast he almost fell.

“Yes! Yes I do!”

You laughed, and Ace’s heart nearly burst.

~~~

~Luffy

Luffy didn’t realize he was in love at first. He's never really care about 'dating'.

He just knew he liked being around you.

A lot.

Like… a lot a lot.

He’d plop down beside you during meals. He’d stretch his arms across the deck just to poke your shoulder.

He’d call your name first every time he saw something cool. He noticed he smiled whenever you walked into a room.

But you?

You barely reacted.

You treated him like…a normal crewmate.

Not special..not any different..not someone you were supposed to pay attention to.

And Luffy didn’t understand why that made his chest feel weird.

Luffy’s first solution was simple:

If you weren’t noticing him…he’d just get closer.

So he started:

- sitting right next to you

- leaning his whole body weight on you

- wrapping his arms around your waist when he was bored

- resting his chin on your shoulder

- following you around the ship like a lost puppy

You’d gently push him off.

“Luffy, I’m trying to work.”

“Oh. Okay.”

He’d step back.

For three seconds.

Then he’d be right behind you again.

You didn’t yell. You didn't start blushing....You didn’t even tease him.

You just… kept doing your thing.

Luffy frowned.

This wasn’t working.

Luffy thought maybe you just didn’t know how cool he was.

So he started showing off.

He lifted heavy crates with one hand. He would stretch across the entire deck.

He fought a giant fish and dragged it onboard...He balanced on the railing with one foot.

He did flips.. and tricks...He did everything short of setting himself on fire.

You glanced over once.

“Be careful.”

Then went back to your task.

Luffy deflated like a balloon...

Luffy’s last idea was foolproof.

Food..

Food fixes everything..So he started bringing you snacks.

“Here! Sanji made this! It’s good!”

You took it politely..said thank you..ate it.

And then?

You went right back to what you were doing.

Luffy stared at you, confused, holding an empty plate..like this wasn't what he thought was gonna happen.

“…Why isn’t she looking at me?” he whispered to himself.

One afternoon, you were tying down rope on the deck when Luffy plopped down beside you, legs crossed..staring at you intensely.

You didn’t look up.

So he leaned closer.

Still nothing.

He leaned closer.

Still nothing.

He leaned so close his nose almost touched your cheek.

You finally sighed. “Luffy… what are you doing?”

He blurted it out without thinking:

“Why don’t you look at me the way I look at you?”

You froze.

Luffy’s eyes were big, honest, confused, a little sad.

“I like you,” he said simply. “A lot. But you don’t… you don’t look at me.”

You blinked. “Luffy… I didn’t think you liked me like that.”

He tilted his head. “Why not?”

“Because you act like that with everyone.”

Luffy frowned. “No I don’t.”

“You hug everyone.”

“Yeah, but I hug you more.”

“You cling to everyone.”

“Not like I cling to you.”

"You don't normally share food tho...”

“mhm and I give you the best bites.”

You stared at him.

He stared back.

Then he said, very softly:

“I want you to notice me.”

Your heart did something stupid.

“…Luffy,” you said gently, “I do notice you.”

He blinked.

“Really?”

You nodded.

He broke into the biggest, brightest, sunniest grin you’d ever seen.

“Then- then-does that mean you like me too?”

You smiled.

“Yeah. I do.”

Luffy practically launched himself at you, wrapping you in a tight, warm hug.

“GOOD!” he said, burying his face in your shoulder. “Because I wanna be with you all the time!”

You laughed, hugging him back.

“I kinda figured.”

Luffy pulled back just enough to beam at you.

“Then we’re dating now!”

You blinked. “Just like that?”

“Yep!”

He grabbed your hand, lacing your fingers together.

And this time?

You squeezed back.

The Sunny was quiet at night.

Everyone was asleep except Robin, who sat in the library with a cup of tea, reading by lamplight. You wandered in wanting a quiet place to think..fingers tangled in your hair..frustration written all over your face.

Robin glanced up, smiling gently.

“Couldn’t sleep?”

You sighed and dropped into the chair across from her with a half nod.

“My hair is driving me insane,” you muttered, tugging at a stubborn strand. “It’s heavy, it’s getting harder to maintain with the weather always changing, it just won’t do anything I want it to.”

Robin closed her book, giving you her full attention.

You stared at your reflection in the dark window, chewing your lip.

“…Would it be crazy if...I just cut it off?”

Robin didn’t even blink.

“If it’s what you want,” she said softly, “then it isn’t crazy at all.”

You hesitated. “Really?”

She nodded. “Hair grows back. Confidence doesn’t always. If this will make you feel more like yourself… I’ll help.”

Your heart warmed at her offer..

“…Okay,” you whispered. “Let’s do it.”

Robin summoned a few hands to gather scissors, a towel, and a small mirror.

You sat in the chair, nervous but excited.

“Ready?” she asked.

You took a breath. “Yeah.”

Snip.

The first lock fell to the floor.

You felt the difference immediately..it already felt lighter..

Robin worked carefully, shaping the pixie cut with surprising skill. Her extra hands held sections, trimmed angles, brushed away stray hairs.

When she finished, she turned the mirror toward you.

You froze..taking a second to look at your new look..

“…I look cute.”

Robin smiled. “You look confident.”

You touched the short hair around your ears, the soft fringe on your forehead, the way your face looked brighter, freer.

“I love it,” you whispered.

Then your stomach dropped.

“Oh wait should I have told Sanji?”

Robin chuckled. “I’m sure he’ll survive.”

You weren’t so sure...but we'll see.

~~~

The next morning you walked into the kitchen, still half‑asleep, rubbing your eyes..and running your fingers through your new hair do.

Sanji was at the stove, humming as he flipped pancakes.

“Good morning, my-”

He turned.

Stopped.

Stared.

The spatula slipped from his hand and clattered onto the floor.

“…Y/N?”

You froze at his voice. “Um. Surprise?”

Sanji blinked once.

Twice.

Then his face went bright red.

“You- you cut your hair,” he breathed, stepping closer like he needed to confirm you were real. “You look-you look-” he stutters over his words looking for the right ones.

You braced yourself.

“-adorable.”

You felt your face immediately heat up..

Sanji ran a hand through his own hair, flustered beyond belief.

“I mean.. not just adorable..stunning. Beautiful. Radiant. Absolutely perfect. I...wow. I was not prepared.”

You laughed softly. “You like it?”

“Like it?” he repeated. “I LOVE it.”

He circled you, admiring every angle.

“It suits you so well. It frames your face beautifully. It makes your eyes stand out. And-and-”

He covered his mouth, overwhelmed.

You giggled. “Sanji, breathe.”

He didn’t.

He just gently cupped your cheeks, thumbs brushing your new hairline.

“You’re even cuter than before,” he whispered. “I didn’t think that was even possible.”

Your heart melted. Sanji always has a way with words...

Sanji leaned in and kissed your forehead, lingering there for a moment.

“Please warn me next time,” he murmured. “I need emotional preparation for how pretty you’re going to be.”

You laughed into his chest.

He hugged you tight, still blushing.

1.

Ace didn’t even mean to do it.

He just tugged off his hat, shook his hair out, and ran a hand through it..the most casual, normal Ace thing in the world.

But to you?

It was lethal.

His hair fell messily over his forehead, sun catching on the strands, and he gave his head one last shake that sent a few pieces flying into place.

You froze.

You can't help but feel your face heat up instantly.

Ace blinked at you with a confused look.

“...What’s wrong?”

“N‑nothing,” you said too quickly, looking anywhere but at him.

He tilted his head, smiling a little.

“You sure? You look kinda red.”

You turned away even faster..not letting look at you blushing face.

Ace laughed softly, completely unaware of the damage he’d done.

~~~

2.

You and Ace were walking through town, fingers intertwined.

He held your hand like it was the most natural thing in the world... swinging it gently, thumb brushing your knuckles. He did it so effortlessly...

You bit the inside of your cheek to keep from smiling too hard.

Ace glanced over at you.

“You okay?”

“Yep.”

“You’re being quiet.”

“I’m fine.”

He squeezed your hand.

“Good. I like holding your hand.”

Your heart did a full somersault..but you don't let him see that..

You looked away, cheeks burning, trying not to grin like an idiot.

Ace just kept walking, humming happily, completely unaware that he was the reason your brain had stopped functioning.

~~~

3.

You were standing on deck, minding your own business, when Ace walked by.

He didn’t say anything.

He didn’t slow down.

He just leaned in, pressed a warm kiss to your cheek, and kept walking like it was nothing.

You blinked.

Once...

Then twice.

Your brain needed a full ten seconds to reboot.

Ace was already halfway across the deck, stretching his arms over his head, completely oblivious to the way you were frozen in place, hand pressed to your cheek.

Then..slowly..a smile crept onto your face..you couldn't help it.

A soft, 'I’m so in love with him' kind of smile.

Ace glanced back at you, confused.

“What’re you smiling about?”

You shook your head quickly. “Nothing!”

He shrugged and kept walking.

You watched him go, cheeks warm, heart fluttering.

~~~

4.

Ace didn’t mean to fall asleep on you.

You were just sitting on the deck, reading, minding your own business, when he wandered over...hair messy, eyes half‑closed, shirt slipping off one shoulder. Tho rare that he wore one anyway..

“’M tired…” he mumbled.

Before you could respond, he flopped down beside you, head landing right on your chest like it was the most natural pillow in the world.

Your heart stopped.

“Ace-”

He hummed, already drifting, arms sliding around your waist as he burrowed closer.

You swallowed hard, trying not to combust.

Slowly, carefully, you lifted a hand and ran your fingers through his hair.

Ace melted.

Actually melted.

Too cute...

He let out a soft, sleepy sigh and nuzzled into you, his breath warm against your skin.

You bit your lip to keep from smiling too hard.

He was your boyfriend.

You were allowed to pet his hair.

You were allowed to cuddle him.

So why did it feel like your heart was trying to escape your chest?

Ace shifted, tightening his hold on you.

“Comfy…” he murmured.

You smiled.. and decided just to enjoy the moment instead of questioning it.

~~~

5.

Ace loved teasing you.

Loved it.

He’d lean against the railing, arms crossed, smirk on his face, watching you get flustered like it was his favorite hobby.

One afternoon, he caught you staring at him.. not on purpose, just… admiring...I mean how could you not stare.. just look at him.

He grinned.

“What’s that look for babe”

You choked on air. “I- um I wasn’t..!”

He pushed off the railing and walked toward you, slowly with a smug grin plastered on his face.

“You sure? Cause it kinda looked like you were checking me out.”

You turned away, face turning red. “I wasn’t!”

Ace laughed..his usual warm and bright smile...He leaned down, whispering near your ear:

“You can look all you want. I’m yours.”

You nearly short‑circuited.

Ace walked away whistling, completely satisfied with himself.

You stood there, face on fire, wondering how it was possible to have a crush on someone who already kisses you goodnight every night..

~~~

6.

Dinner with the crew was always chaotic always, but tonight Ace was especially bold.

You were mid‑conversation when a hand slid across your plate.

You slapped it lightly. “Ace!”

He grinned, already chewing the stolen bite.

“What?” he said around a mouthful. “Yours tastes better.”

“It’s literally the same food!”

He shrugged. “Still tastes better.”

You glared at him, but he only leaned closer, eyes sparkling.

“C’mon,” he teased. “You know you love me.”

You opened your mouth to argue... but he stole another bite.

“Ace!”

He laughed, dodging your swat, leaning over to kiss your cheek before you could stay mad.

“Thanks, babe,” he said, already reaching for a third bite.

You froze at the kiss, cheeks warming, heart fluttering.

Ace paused, noticing your expression.

Then he smirked.

“You’re cute when you blush.”

You shoved him lightly, but you were smiling.

Sanji always knew when you entered the kitchen.

Not because you made noise, you didn’t you never did..You moved like a whisper..soft steps, with even softer breaths, soft presence overall.

But he felt you.

Like a shift in the air. Like warmth brushing against his back.

He was stirring a pot when he heard the faintest sound..a tiny, contented trill.

Then your arms slid around his waist from behind, cheek pressing between his shoulder blades.

Sanji froze.

“Ah.. chérie,” he breathed, already pink in the ears. “You scared me.”

You didn’t answer.. content with just holding him close like a treasure..You just nuzzled into him, rubbing your cheek against his back in slow affectionate little motions.

Sanji’s knees nearly buckled.

“You’re…very sweet today,” he said, voice cracking slightly. Then he hears it..Your purr..soft but strong enough to rumble slightly against him.

Right against his spine. Leaving sanji gripping the counter for dear life.

Eventually you let go..only to circle around him and hop up onto the counter beside his cutting board.

You sat with your knees pulled up, tail swaying lazily behind you, eyes wide and bright as you watched him work. You liked watching him in his element.

Sanji tried to focus on the vegetables.

He really did.

But every time he glanced over, you were staring at him with those big eyes… and purring..how is he supposed to focus..

“Mon amour,” he said softly, “you’re going to make me burn something.”

You tilted your head, ears twitching.

"That's not my fault.."

You argue playfully scrunching your nose at him.

Sanji’s heart did a somersault.

He set the knife down before he cut himself...smart move sanji..

When he stepped closer to check the pot, you reached out and grabbed the front of his shirt.

He blinked. “Hm?”

You pulled him closer.

Then your hands pressed against his chest, fingers curling and uncurling in a slow, rhythmic motion.

Kneading. You know it always gets to Sanji when you do it..

Sanji made a noise he absolutely did not mean to make.

“Ch‑chérie, you can't- i’m trying to cook..”

You kneaded harder.

Sanji had to put a hand on the counter to steady himself letting you win..

“You’re going to be the death of me,” he whispered. Not that he did anything to stop it...Why would he... he's very happy right now..

He leaned into your touch, cheeks warm, eyes softening..

When he finally managed to pull himself away and turn back to the stove, you slid off the counter and followed him, pressing your cheek against his arm.

He laughed under his breath.

“You really like being close today, huh?”

You purred again.. louder this time.. and Sanji melted completely.

He reached down and stroked your hair gently, careful and tender.

“You’re adorable,” he murmured. “You know that?”

You nuzzled his hand.

He smiled.. a soft smile holding lots of fondness within his dopey grin..

“Stay with me while I finish cooking,” he said. “I like having you here.”

You curled your tail around his leg and purred.

Sanji swore his heart wasn’t ready for this kind of sweetness.

People liked to pretend they understood the soulmate system.

They didn’t.

They made theories, wrote books, argued in taverns, and told stories to children… but the truth was simple:

Everyone was born in grayscale. No color. No hue. No warmth. Just endless shades of silver, charcoal, fog, and ash.

It wasn’t sad. It wasn’t empty.It was just… normal. You didn't get why some people took it so seriously..

You grew up hearing the same things everyone did:

- “Color appears the moment you meet your soulmate.” 

- “One look is all it takes.” 

- “Your world changes forever.” 

Some people spent their whole lives chasing that moment, Some feared it. Some pretended they didn’t care. Some claimed they didn’t need color to live a full life.

You weren’t sure where you fit.

Gray was familiar ,Predictable. It was...quiet.

You’d learned to navigate the world by texture, shape, and light instead of color. You didn’t mind it. You didn’t crave anything more.

But you did wonder.

What did the ocean look like in color? 

What did fire look like? 

What did you look like?

No one could describe it properly. 

People who had found their soulmate always said the same thing:

“You’ll understand when it happens.”

Which wasn’t helpful at all.

Still… you weren’t desperate.You weren’t searching,You weren’t waiting on the edge of your seat for fate to tap you on the shoulder.

You were just living. Doing your work. Traveling from island to island.Keeping your head down. 

Letting the world stay gray..it wasn't that bad anyway.

Because color was something that happened to other people.

But not to you.

Not on this quiet morning at the docks, where the sea breeze felt cool against your skin and the world was the same soft grayscale it had always been.

You didn’t know that everything was about to change.

You didn’t know that someone was about to crash into your life like a spark lightning a flame..

~

You were weaving through the crowded dock, minding your own business, letting the familiar grayscale world blur around you. People moved like shadows, voices blending into a dull hum. Nothing unusual. Nothing new.

Then someone slammed into you.

You stumbled, breath catching,

but a warm hand shot out and grabbed your wrist before you could fall.

“Ah-sorry! I didn’t see you!”

You looked up.

And the world exploded.

Color didn’t ease in. Of course it didn't bloom gently. It hit you like a wave crashing over your head.

The sky turned a blinding blue. 

The sea flashed turquoise. 

The wooden planks beneath your feet glowed warm gold.

And the man holding your wrist.His eyes were the first thing you saw clearly.

Bright. 

Alive. 

Burning like sunlight through honey.

You gasped, stumbling back as your senses overloaded. Your heart raced. Your vision swam. 

Your knees nearly buckled.

He froze too.

His pupils blew wide, breath catching in his throat as he stared at you like you were the first real thing he’d ever seen.

“…No way,” he whispered. His voice was soft, stunned.  “Are you-?”

But before he could finish, someone shouted from behind him.

“Ace! We gotta go!”

He flinched, torn between you and the voice calling him.

“Hold on!” he yelled over his shoulder, not taking his eyes off you. “Just-give me a second!”

You were still trying to breathe, trying to understand, trying to stay upright as color continued to crash into your senses like a storm.

He stepped closer, worry flickering across his face.

“Hey-are you okay? I didn’t mean to..I mean, I didn’t know.”

“Ace!” another voice barked. “Now!”

He groaned, dragging a hand through his hair, clearly frustrated.

“I’m coming! Just-ugh-give me a minute!”

He looked back at you, conflicted, jaw tight.

“I… I have to go,” he said reluctantly. “But-can you stay here? Please? I’ll come back. I swear.”

You couldn’t even speak yet. You just nodded. Relief washed over his face.

“Okay. Good. I’ll be right back.”

He took a few steps backward, still staring at you like he couldn’t believe you were real.

Then someone grabbed his arm and dragged him away.

“Okay, okay, I’m coming!” he snapped, stumbling after them.

But even as he disappeared into the crowd, he kept looking back at you.

Like he was afraid you’d vanish.

~~

Ace barely made it around the corner before Thatch grabbed him by the shoulders.

“There you are! We’ve been yelling for-”

Thatch stopped. Stared at Ace like there was something different about him. Then he squinted.

“…Ace. Why are you looking at me like that?”

Ace blinked rapidly, eyes darting all over Thatch’s face like he was trying to solve a puzzle.

Then he pointed.

“You’re a ginger.”

Thatch froze. “I- what?”

Ace pointed harder, voice rising. “Your hair! It’s orange! Like really bright orange!”

Marco, Izou, and a few others all turned at once.

Marco stepped forward, arms crossed. “Ace. Since when can you see color?”

Ace threw both hands in the air. “I WOULD’VE TOLD YOU IF YOU DIDN’T DRAG ME AWAY!”

Thatch sputtered. “Hold on.. you’re telling me you just, what.. unlocked color vision in the last five minutes?!”

Ace started pacing in a tight circle, running his hands through his hair.

“Yes! YES, THATCH! That is EXACTLY what I’m saying! I bumped into someone and BOOM..color everywhere and then you idiots started yelling like I wasn’t having the biggest moment of my LIFE!”

Marco raised a brow. “So… you met your soulmate.”

Ace stopped pacing.

His face went red.

“I- I don’t know! Maybe! Probably! YES! I DON’T KNOW!”

Izou stepped closer, studying him. “What did they look like?”

Ace opened his mouth..then froze again.He stared at Marco.

Really stared.

“…You’re…also... ginger?”

Marco blinked. “Yes?”

Ace pointed at him too. “You’re ginger. You’re BOTH ginger. Why is everyone ginger?!”

Thatch burst out laughing. “Oh my god, he’s losing it.”

Ace groaned loudly. “I AM NOT- I JUST- EVERYTHING IS COLOR AND YOU ALL LOOK DIFFERENT AND I-UGH”

Marco placed a calming hand on his shoulder. “Ace. Focus. Where is this person now?”

Ace’s expression softened instantly.

“I… told them I’d come back.” 

He swallowed. “They looked overwhelmed. I didn’t want them to think I ran away.”

Izou smirked. “You’re whipped already.”

Ace glared. “I AM NOT- I JUST- THEY WERE- UGH- I NEED TO GO BACK.”

Thatch waved him off dramatically. “Then go, lover boy.”

Ace didn’t even argue.

He was already turning, already jogging back toward the docks, already searching for you like the world depended on it.

~~

Ace jogged back toward the docks so fast he nearly tripped over a crate. His heart was pounding, his head was spinning, and every color in the world felt too bright, too loud, too new.

But none of it mattered. He just needed to find you.

He reached the spot where he’d left you..the exact plank of wood, the exact stretch of railing ,but you weren’t there.

His stomach dropped.

“…No” he muttered, spinning in a frantic circle. “I told them I’d come back, I told them..”

He scanned the crowd, eyes darting from face to face, overwhelmed by the explosion of color everywhere. Every shirt, every hat, every sign, every fruit stand.. everything was too much.

But then..

He saw you.

Sitting on a bench a little ways down the dock, hands folded in your lap, staring out at the sea with wide, stunned eyes. The world reflected in your gaze like you were seeing it for the first time.

Because..well you were.

Ace let out a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding.

He walked toward you..slowly this time, not wanting to startle you, not wanting to overwhelm you more than you already were.

You didn’t notice him at first. 

You were too busy watching the waves, the sky, the gulls, the boats..everything glowing with color you’d never known existed.

Ace stopped in front of you, hands on his knees as he caught his breath.

“…Hey,” he said softly.

You looked up giving him a small wave with your fingers.

And he swore his heart did something weird.

You blinked at him, still dazed, still processing, still trying to understand the world that had changed in an instant.

“I… came back,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck. “Like I said I would.”

You nodded slowly.

He hesitated, then sat beside you..not too close, not touching, just near enough that you could feel his warmth.

“You okay?” he asked gently.

You opened your mouth, closed it, then tried again.

“I um…everything is… different.”

Ace let out a soft laugh..not mocking, just relieved you were talking.

“Yeah,” he said. “Tell me about it.”

You looked at him again, really looked, and he felt his cheeks warm under your gaze.

He cleared his throat.

“I’m Ace,” he said, even though he knew you already knew. “Portgas D. Ace.”

You nodded. “I’m… still trying to breathe.”

He smiled..soft, warm, patient.

“That’s okay,” he said. “We can breathe together.”

And for a moment, the two of you just sat there.. letting the world settle, letting the colors stop spinning, letting the shock fade into something quieter.

You and Ace sit together on the bench for a moment, letting the world settle around you. The colors are still overwhelming..too bright, too sharp, too alive.. but Ace’s presence is strangely grounding.

He keeps glancing at you, then at the sky, then back at you again like he’s trying to memorize everything at once.

You clear your throat softly.

“So… you’re a pirate.”

Ace looks up, blinking like he forgot that was a thing he needed to explain.

“Yeah,” he says, nodding. “How’d you know?”

He’s mostly just trying to keep the conversation going, you can tell. He’s nervous. He’s fidgeting. He’s rubbing the back of his neck like he doesn’t know what to do with his hands.

You look him up and down with a small smile, then gesture toward his back.

“Your tattoo.”

Ace freezes.

Then he bursts out laughing, loud, bright, warm.

“Oh right. Duh.”

He rubs the back of his neck again, cheeks a little pink. “Kinda forgot about that for a second.”

You smile, and he notices.

He notices everything you do now.

He leans forward slightly, elbows on his knees.

“So… uh… what about you?” he asks. “You live around here? Or just passing through?”

“Passing through,” you say quietly. “I was just… running errands. Before everything changed.”

Ace nods slowly, eyes softening.

“Yeah. Same here. Well, not errands. More like… pirate stuff.”

He winces. “That sounded cooler in my head.”

You laugh ,a small, surprised sound..and Ace lights up like you handed him the sun.

He shifts a little closer, careful not to crowd you.

“Can I ask something?” he says.

You nod.

“What… what’s it like for you? Seeing color for the first time?”

You look out at the sea again, watching the waves shimmer in shades you don’t even have names for yet.

“It’s… a lot,” you admit. “Beautiful. But overwhelming..i wasn't expecting all this...”

Ace nods, understanding instantly.

“Yeah. Same.”

He pauses. “I didn’t want to leave you back there. I swear I didn’t.”

You look at him, and he looks genuinely upset at the idea that you might’ve thought he ran away.

“Its okay” you say softly.

He exhales, relieved.

“Good. Because I-”

He stops, searching for the right words.

“I just… didn’t want you to think I didn’t care.”

Your chest tightens a little.

You don’t know what to say to that.

So you don’t say anything.

You just look at him ,really looked.. and Ace’s breath catches like he’s seeing color all over again.

You and Ace talk for a while..awkward at first, then easier, then almost comfortable. He keeps glancing at you like he’s afraid you’ll disappear if he looks away too long.

But eventually, the sun dips lower, and you realize how late it’s gotten.

You stand slowly. Ace’s eyes widen immediately.

“You’re leaving?” he blurts, way too fast.

You pause. “I… should. I still have things to do.”

His face falls so quickly you almost feel it in your chest.

“Oh,” he says, trying to play it cool and failing miserably. “Yeah. No, that’s.. that’s fine. Totally fine. I mean, we just met, so.. yeah.”

He’s rambling. He’s nervous. He’s terrible at hiding it.

You soften.

“I can meet you tomorrow,” you say gently.

Ace freezes.

And then hes eyes light up..almost sparkling.

“Tomorrow?” he repeats, hopeful. “Same place?”

You nod.

He grins a big warm smile you can see the relief. "Okay..Yeah...Tomorrow.”

You walk away, and Ace watches you go until you’re completely out of sight.

~~~

Ace is already at the docks when you arrive the next morning.

He's pacing around.. fidgeting him with his hands, totally pretending it's not waiting for you.

When he spots you, he lights up instantly.

“You came!” he says, then winces. “I mean-of course you came. You said you would. I just..well yeah.”

You laugh softly, and he relaxes.

You sit together again, talking about everything and nothing.. colors, the island, the crew, the way the world feels different now.

At one point, Ace leans back, hands behind his head.

“You know,” he says casually, “you could just come with me.”

You blink. “With you?”

He shrugs, trying to look cool and failing. “Yeah. I mean.. pirates travel a lot. You’d see more colors. And I could… y’know… keep you safe.”

You raise a brow with a playful grin. “Are you trying to kidnap your soulmate?”

Ace chokes on air.

“What?! No! I mean- not unless you wanted- I mean..I’m not-that’s not.. ughh”

You laugh again, and he groans into his hands.

“Don’t tease me,” he mumbles. But he’s smiling.

~~~

On the third day, Ace looks different when you meet him.

Still getting off the warm vibe still excited to see you but there's something in his eyes something sad..

He sits beside you, elbows on his knees, staring out at the sea.

“My crew’s getting ready to leave,” he says softly.

Your heart sinks.

“Oh.”

“Yeah.”

He rubs the back of his neck. “We don’t stay in one place long y'know. Pirate life and all that.”

You nod, trying to keep your expression steady.

Ace glances at you, then away again.

“I don’t… want to go,” he admits quietly. “Not yet.”

The words hang between you.. warm, heavy, honest.

You don’t know what to say.

And Ace doesn’t push.

He just sits there beside you, shoulders brushing, both of you pretending the moment isn’t as big as it feels.

Ace is still staring out at the water, shoulders tense, fingers tapping anxiously against his knee. You can tell he’s trying to act casual, but the worry is written all over him.

You take a slow breath.

“Okay,” you say quietly, “I’m going to say something crazy.”

Ace’s head snaps toward you instantly.

He turns his whole body to face you, giving you his full attention like you just said the most important sentence in the world.

“Go for it,” he says, voice soft but steady.

You swallow, heart pounding.

“What if I… did go with you?”

Ace freezes.

Not dramatically..not like he’s shocked or scared but like he’s genuinely processing the words.

Like he’s turning them over in his mind, checking every angle, every possibility.

Because he did ask.

He just never expected you to actually take him up on it.

His brows lift slightly.

His mouth parts.

He looks at you like he’s seeing a new color he didn’t know existed.

“You… would?” he asks, voice barely above a whisper.

You nod, slowly. “I mean… maybe. If you wanted me there.”

Ace lets out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.

Then another.

Then he laughs..not loud, not chaotic but soft, disbelieving, almost relieved.

“I..wow,” he says, rubbing the back of his neck. “that would be really great but I didn’t think you’d actually-”

He stops himself, shaking his head like he’s trying to reboot.

“I asked because I wanted you to come,” he admits. “I just didn’t want to pressure you. Or scare you. Or make you think I was trying to drag you into pirate life without thinking.”

You smile a little. “You’re not dragging me anywhere.”

Ace’s eyes soften. He leans forward, elbows on his knees, hands clasped loosely.

“I’d like it,” he says quietly. “If you came. I really would.”

There’s a beat of silence..warm, heavy, hopeful.

Then he adds, almost shyly:

“But only if you’re sure. I don’t want you to regret anything.”

You look out at the sea, the colors shimmering in ways you still can’t fully understand.

You look out at the ocean, the colors still too bright, too alive, too new.

Three days ago, your world was gray.

Quiet. Predictable. Safe.

Now?

Now everything feels uncertain.

Terrifying.

Beautiful.

And somehow, when you look at Ace, it doesn’t feel like fear.

It feels like standing at the edge of something bigger than yourself and realizing… you want to jump.

You laugh softly, shaking your head.

“I spent my whole life thinking color was supposed to change the world,” you say.

Ace watches you carefully.

“And it did.”

You turn to him.

“But not because of the sky. Or the ocean. Or all of this.”

Your voice softens.

“It changed because I met you.”

Ace stops breathing.

You smile... small and nervous..but real.

“So yeah,” you say taking his hand.

You always kept your sketchbook close, tucked under your arm, slipped into your bag, or hidden beneath your pillow. Not because you were embarrassed of your art, but because it was yours. Your comfort. Your quiet space.

Your way of processing the world when words felt too heavy or too slippery to grab.

And lately… your sketchbook had been full of Ace.

Ace as a fox.

Ace as a dragon.

Ace in a ridiculous frilly shirt Thatch swore was “fashion.”

Ace with tiny wings.

Ace with freckles shaped like constellations.

Ace in outfits he would absolutely never wear but you thought were funny.

You didn’t mean to draw him so much. He just… showed up in your brain a lot.

You were sitting on deck, legs tucked under you, sketchbook open on your lap, completely absorbed in the lines you were shaping. The world faded out when you drew, the noise, the movement, the unpredictability of the ship. It all softened into something manageable.

You didn’t even notice Ace until his shadow fell over your page.

“Whatcha workin’ on?” he asked, voice warm and curious.

You froze. Your pencil hovered mid‑stroke. Your heart did a weird little jump.

You snapped the sketchbook shut on instinct.

Ace blinked. “Hey-hey, sorry! Didn’t mean to scare you.”

You shook your head quickly. It wasn’t fear. It was… being seen. Too suddenly. Too directly.

Ace crouched down in front of you, hands raised like he was approaching a skittish animal...but not in a patronizing way. Just gentle. Respectful.

“You don’t have to show me,” he said softly. “I just like seeing you happy.”

Your chest tightened a little. In a good way.

You hesitated… then slowly opened the sketchbook again, flipping to a page you felt okay sharing.

Ace leaned in. And his face lit up.

“Is that..ME??”

You nodded, bracing yourself.

He burst out laughing, bright, warm, delighted.

“Why do I have fox ears?!”

You shrugged. “They… fit.”

Ace laughed harder. “Honestly? Yeah. They kinda do.”

He flipped to the next page.

“A DRAGON? Babe, I look awesome!”

You flushed at the word babe, but he didn’t seem to notice...he was too busy admiring the art.

Then he paused on a drawing of him in a soft, flowy outfit you’d seen in a shop window once. Something elegant. Something he’d never pick for himself.

His voice softened.

“You drew me really… pretty.”

You swallowed. “Well..you are.”

Ace’s ears went red instantly.

He looked at you ,really looked and something warm settled in his expression.

“You know,” he said quietly, “I love that you see me like this.”

You fidgeted with your pencil, unsure how to respond.

Ace gently tapped the page. “Can I… can I be in more of your drawings?”

You blinked. “You… want me to draw you??”

“Yeah,” he said, smiling in that soft, sun‑warm way he only used with you. “I like the way you see me..”

Your throat tightened. You nodded.

Ace sat beside you, shoulder brushing yours, careful not to touch your sketchbook unless you offered it.

“Can I watch?” he asked.

You hesitated… then nodded again.

Ace grinned, leaning back on his hands, content just to be near you.

And as you started sketching again ,Ace as a phoenix this time, he whispered, almost to himself

“I’m really glad you like drawing me.”

Forehead

Ace kisses your forehead like it’s second nature. It’s his way of saying I’m here, even when he doesn’t have the words.

He’ll lean down without thinking, brushing a soft kiss to your forehead before heading out, before falling asleep, or even mid‑conversation.

It’s gentle, warm, and always makes you melt a little, which he pretends not to notice.

Knuckles

Ace kisses your knuckles when he’s feeling playful… or when he’s trying to charm you.

He’ll take your hand slowly, eyes locked on yours, and bring your knuckles to his lips with a tiny smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

He loves the way you get flustered every single time, even though he does it often.

It’s his favorite way to make you blush.

Neck

Ace only kisses your neck when he’s being soft , never teasing, never dramatic.

Usually it’s when he’s hugging you from behind, half‑asleep, or when he’s just woken up and hasn’t fully opened his eyes yet.

He’ll nuzzle into your shoulder, press a warm, lazy kiss to the side of your neck, and mumble something you can’t quite hear.

It’s quiet affection, the kind he doesn’t show anyone else.

Cheek

Ace kisses you often...very often.

Even if he doesn’t have time to stop and properly kiss you, he’ll still lean over just to press a quick kiss to your cheek before running off again. To him, it’s as natural as holding your hand or pulling you into a hug.

It’s effortless. Instinctive.

A quiet little reminder that he loves you, even in the middle of busy days.

Shoulder

Ace loves leaving quick kisses on your shoulder throughout the day.

If he passes by you on the ship,whether he’s grabbing something, teasing you, or just moving past. He’ll lean down and press a soft kiss against your skin like it’s second nature.

Sometimes it’s so quick you barely notice.

Other times, it leaves you smiling for the rest of the day.

It’s small, but with Ace, those little moments always mean the most.

Belly

Ace falls asleep everywhere.

On deck. In the kitchen. Against the railing. Somewhere he definitely shouldn’t be.

So when you find him half-asleep and gently wake him up, he’ll lazily wrap his arms around your waist, still too sleepy to fully function.

Before letting go, he presses a quick, absentminded kiss against your stomach...soft, warm, and completely casual. Before standing up and acting like he didn’t just make your heart stop.

Meanwhile, you’re left standing there trying to remember how breathing works.

Head

Ace absolutely uses his height to tease you.

He loves sneaking up behind you just to press a kiss to the top of your head before pretending nothing happened.

Sometimes it’s playful, paired with a smug grin when you glare at him.

Other times, it’s softer.

When he’s tired. Quiet. When the world feels too loud.

That’s when he’ll rest his chin on your head, arms wrapping around you from behind, and leave the gentlest kiss there, like you’re his favorite place to be.

Hands

Ace loves teasing you, and he especially loves how easy it is to make you flustered.

He’ll take your hand in his, hold your gaze for far too long, and then slowly press a kiss right into your palm.

Deliberate.

Unfair.

And when your face immediately turns red and you try to look away?

He just grins like he’s won. Because he has.

Nose

When Ace kisses your nose, it’s always playful.

He’ll gently squish your cheeks together with one hand, trapping you in place while he presses repeated little kisses to your nose with the biggest grin on his face.

You’re laughing, trying to pull away, and he’s absolutely refusing to let you.

It’s teasing. Affectionate. Ridiculously cute.

The air felt tighter...almost impossible to breathe through.

You felt like you could barely breathe yet were also breathing too fast, the atmosphere was foggy..almost like being stuck in a cloud.

Despite being surrounded by a crowd of people you've never felt more alone..

The screams and shouts sounding like ringing in your ears..you cover your ears trying to drown out the noise, crouching down to hide away from everything. It's all too much.

Then you see it.

The dark pool of red trails to your feet..

You hesitantly look up following the trail of blood with your eyes and the fog clears up, And he's there..

"Ace?" You whisper out wanting desperately to look away but unable to move your eyes away from that horrifying site..

He's there...bleeding.. you try to rush to his side but you're frozen.

You see him reaching out for you...But you can't move..

My mind is screaming at you to run to him... It takes everything in you to move..

You can feel tears streaming down your face as you finally will your feet to start moving towards him.

But suddenly he's far away, you can't reach him...

He's gone..

"Ace!!" You shout out as you wake up shaking in your bed.

"Hey"

Your trembling holding yours knees to your chest.

"Hey"

Was it a dream..You can't think your mind is yelling at you.

"Hey!"

It's Ace sitting in front of you..was he here the whole time?

"A-ace.."

He nods wiping away your tear..wait when did you start crying..

"Hey it's okay" he starts pulling you into a hug letting you cling to him and he brushes your hair back out of your face to help you breathe.

You break down in his arms trying so hard to calm your breath yet your mind can't forget what you saw..

"You were-..you-" you struggle to get the words out as just thinking about it hurt your heart.

"Shhhh it's okay I'm right here" Ace comforts knowing how hard this is hitting you..

You weren't a person who cried without a reason so hearing you sob in your sleep woke him up immediately..

"I'm right here.." He doesn't know for sure what your nightmare was about but hearing you cry his name lets him know enough..

And for now..that's enough. He holds you in his arms till your breathing settles and eventually evens out.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ace didn’t sleep.

He couldn’t. Not after last night.

He kept replaying it in his head , the way you thrashed in your sleep, the way your breath hitched like you were drowning, the way your voice cracked when you whispered his name like you were losing him.

You never cry.

Not when you get hurt.

Not when you’re exhausted.

Not even when the crew teases you.

But last night… you broke.

And Ace felt something inside him break with you.

He’d heard you before he even fully woke up ,soft, choked sobs that didn’t sound like you at all. It terrified him. Heart pounding, he found you curled in on yourself, shaking like the world was ending.

He’d never moved so fast in his life.

Now, in the morning light, you’re curled against his chest, breathing slow and even. Your fingers are still tangled in his shirt like you’re afraid he’ll disappear if you let go.

Ace tightens his arms around you instinctively.

He can’t stop staring at your face,the faint tear tracks on your cheeks, the way your lashes still look damp. It makes his chest ache.

She never cries, he thinks. Not like that. Not because of me.

He brushes a thumb gently over your temple, careful not to wake you.

He remembers the way you collapsed into him, whispering his name over and over, voice breaking like you were begging him to stay alive. He remembers how small you felt in his arms, how hard you shook, how desperately you clung to him.

He’d held you tighter than he ever had before.

And now, seeing you peaceful again, he feels something fierce rise in him, protectiveness, tenderness, something deeper he doesn’t dare name yet.

You stir a little, blinking awake. The moment you realize you’re still in his arms, you tense.

“S‑sorry,” you mumble, trying to pull back. “I didn’t mean to cling. I know you probably want to get up.”

Ace’s heart twists.

He cups the back of your head and pulls you right back to his chest.

“No,” he says softly but firmly. “You’re not going anywhere.”

You freeze, surprised.

Ace lowers his chin to rest on your hair, voice barely above a whisper.

“You scared me,” he admits. “Hearing you cry like that… I never want to hear that again. Not from you. Not like that.”

You swallow, guilt flickering in your eyes. “I didn’t mean to..”

“You didn’t do anything wrong,” he cuts in gently. “You had a nightmare. You were scared. And I’m glad I was there.”

You hesitate, then quietly confess, “I feel better when I’m close to you.”

Ace closes his eyes for a moment, letting the words settle in his chest like warmth spreading through him.

“Then stay close,” he murmurs. “As long as you want.”

You relax against him again, cheek pressed to his heartbeat. Ace wraps both arms around you, holding you like you’re something precious he refuses to let slip away.

He doesn’t care about breakfast. He doesn’t care about chores.

He doesn’t even care about the crew teasing him.

It was a sunny afternoon, and the two of you were docked at some random town to gather supplies.

Ace was walking slightly ahead of you, one hand holding yours as you wandered down the busy street together.

Everything was normal, until you heard it. A soft little sound. A tiny, helpless meow.

You stopped in your tracks.

“Hey-what is it?”

Ace called, glancing back when he noticed you weren’t beside him anymore.

But you were too busy looking around for the source of the noise.

Ace followed your gaze, clearly confused. “What are you-”

Then you spotted it.

A tiny kitten, tucked away in a bush near the alleyway..“Aww…”

You immediately let go of Ace’s hand and crouched down beside the bush. Ace sighed but stepped out of the walkway and crouched beside you.

Carefully, you reached in and scooped up the tiny kitten.

She fit perfectly in your hands.

“She’s so cute,” you whispered, practically melting as the little kitten curled into your palm, tiny paws batting at your fingers.

Ace reached over to gently pet her head.

“She is cute…” he admitted.

You looked at him. He looked at you. Your eyes widened hopefully.

“Can we keep her?”

Ace let out an immediate scoff and shook his head.“We live on a ship,” he said, standing up and ruffling your hair. “We cannot have a cat, babe.”

He held out his hand, clearly expecting you to surrender the kitten.

You stared at him.

Then at the kitten.

Then back at him.

“…Fine.”

You sighed dramatically, crouching back down to place her gently near the bush.

“Bye-bye, kitty,” you mumbled sadly before taking Ace’s hand again.

The two of you made it about halfway down the street before you glanced back one last time....and gasped.

“Ace!”

You tugged on his arm so suddenly he nearly tripped.

“What?”

You pointed dramatically. “The kitty! She’s following us! She likes us!”

Ace turned around. Sure enough, the tiny kitten was padding after the two of you like she had already decided she belonged to you.

He had to bite back a smile at how excited you looked.

“We still can’t have a cat,” he reminded you, grabbing your shoulders dramatically and giving you a playful shake.

You groaned. “Yes, yes, I know.”

Still, the kitten followed you the entire day.

From shop to shop.

Street to street.

She sat outside every store waiting patiently like your own tiny furry shadow.

She had definitely chosen you.

By the time you returned to the docks with your supplies, you were already emotionally attached.

And there she was.

Sitting neatly beside the ship like she was waiting to board. You froze. Then slowly turned.

“Aceeeee.”

Your voice was dangerous.

He looked over from where he was loading supplies and immediately stopped when he saw you sitting cross-legged on the dock, the kitten now happily curled in your lap.

He sighed. “Baaabe.”

You frowned and hugged the kitten closer.

“Okay, okay, but she likes me,” you whined.

Ace crossed his arms. You made your final decision.

“Fine. I’ll just stay here with her.”

You turned your face away dramatically. Ace groaned. Of course you would do this.

He walked over and crouched beside you, reaching down to scratch under the kitten’s chin.

She immediately leaned into it.

Ace bit the inside of his cheek, trying not to smile, before letting out one final defeated sigh.

“…Fine.”

Your head snapped up.

Ace was stretched across your chest, warm, heavy, and perfectly relaxed.

It was one of those lazy afternoons where neither of you had any intention of moving. The blankets were tangled around your legs, sunlight spilled softly through the window, and the room was quiet except for the slow rhythm of his breathing.

His hair tickled your collarbone, his arms wrapped loosely around your waist, and with every breath he took, you could feel the steady rise and fall of him against you.

He looked peaceful.

Too peaceful.

You couldn’t help yourself.

Your fingers traced lightly over the freckles dusted across his cheeks, soft and familiar, and you found yourself counting them under your breath.

“One… two… three…”

Ace shifted slightly, one eye cracking open as he looked up at you with sleepy confusion.

“Hm? What’re you doing?”

You smiled, sliding your hand into his hair and gently lifting his head so he had no choice but to look at you.

“Admiring you.”

That immediately made him suspicious.

“…Why?”

You cupped his cheek, your thumb brushing over the freckles there.

“Ace,” you whispered placing a kiss on his nose, “you’re so cute.”

He blinked.

Once. Twice.

Then his entire face went red.

“Wha- I-”

He stammered helplessly, suddenly deciding the ceiling was the most interesting thing in the world.

You smiled wider.

“Your freckles are adorable. All of them.”

Ace groaned and immediately tried to hide his face in your neck.

You laughed softly but let him, your fingers still tracing over his skin. This time down his neck, over his shoulders, counting the freckles scattered there too.

“Five… six… seven…”

“Stop,” he mumbled, voice muffled against your skin.

“Nope.”

“Please.”

“Absolutely not.”

You pressed a kiss to the top of his head.

“Your cheeks? Adorable. Your freckles? Perfect. Your stupidly pretty face? Unfair, honestly.”

Ace made a strangled noise.

“Shut upppp,” he groaned, somehow managing to sound offended and flustered at the same time.

You grinned, running your fingers through his hair.

“And don’t even get me started on your shoulders.”

He let out the softest, most pathetic whine..an actual whine..but he didn’t move away.

If anything, his arms tightened around you.

You smiled to yourself. Because that was the thing about Ace.

He didn’t always know how to handle being loved like this ,openly, gently, without condition.

But he never pushed it away.

Sometimes he got embarrassed. Sometimes he tried to hide. Sometimes he acted like he didn’t know what to do with all that softness.