#lyvhhx

➵ Sukuna lets you sit beside his throne. Sukuna’s throne is something everyone fears. It represents his power, and nobody dares approach it without permission. Yet you can walk right up and sit beside him like it’s the most natural thing in the world. The first time it happens, everyone expects him to remove you immediately. Instead, Sukuna simply allows it, silently showing everyone that your place is beside him.

➵ Sukuna doesn’t let anyone to speak badly about you. Sukuna couldn’t care less when people insult him. Their opinions mean nothing to someone like him. But the moment someone speaks badly about you, his entire attitude changes. The room becomes silent, his expression darkens, and everyone immediately understands that disrespecting you is a mistake they won’t get away with. You are the one person he refuses to let others look down on.

➵ Sukuna protects you without hesitation. Sukuna has never been someone who worries about others. Danger never mattered to him, but when you’re involved, he gets serious. Before anyone can even realize you’re in danger, he’s already there, making sure nothing gets close to you. He’ll act like it was nothing afterwards, claiming he simply “didn’t want you getting in the way,” but everyone knows the truth.

➵ Sukuna remembers the little things about you. Sukuna isn’t someone who pays attention to meaningless details. He doesn’t care about people’s favorite foods, habits, or birthday. Yet somehow, he remembers yours. The drink you like, the things that annoy you, the little comments you made weeks ago. If you point it out, he’ll deny caring and say he simply “remembers everything anyone says,” but everyone knows that isn’t true.

➵ Sukuna lets you see his softer side. Everyone only knows Sukuna as cruel and ruthless. Nobody sees him as anything other than the King of Curses. But you get to see the rare moments he doesn’t show anyone else. The quiet moments, the small acts of care, and the way he lowers his guard around you. He would never admit that you’re different, but everyone else can see it.

Like how every time you guys find an island to explore, Luffy always drags you with him.

How he always ends up sitting beside you every time. Or when he would barge into you, Nami, and Robin's room because he was bored.

The crew noticed it way before you did.

At first they weren't sure if they were assuming things

Every time there's errands to do, Luffy always has to be with you. And if he isn't, he immediately start arguing with everyone and use his title as the captain until he got his way.

How every time Ussop invites him to go fishing, Luffy always asks if you can join. How whenever he catched a big fish, he'd run off to you and start showing off.

Chopper noticed how every time you were sick, luffy would always bring you 'cool things' he found on an island he explored so "you wouldn't miss out"

How luffy always runs off to you every time something cool happens with the biggest grin in his face.

"LOOK! LOOK AT THIS WEIRD BUG I FOUND"

"LOOK AT THIS BIG FISH I CAUGHT"

"LOOK AT THIS NEW TRICK USSOP TAUGHT ME"

Always yelling out to you everytime something happens.

Robin, Nami, Ussop, and Chopper noticed immediately

Sanji, Franky, and Brook noticed shortly after

Zoro also noticed, but didn't care much about it.

But everyone's suspicions were confirmed when luffy did something no one ever thought would happen.

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

Everyone was in the dining room, all laughing and enjoying your food. Of course, right next to luffy.

Luffy was busy eating his food, then suddenly, he put his food in your plate.

Everyone went silent, they couldn't believe what they just saw.

Luffy. Sharing. Food?!

"Huh?!" you turned to look at him.

He grinned "Try it, it's really good"

Luffy noticed how quiet it became, he looked over at everyone, confused why everyone looked shocked.

Nami blinked.

Usopp blinked.

Sanji's cigarette fell out of his mouth.

Robin smiled.

"DID YOU JUST SHARE YOUR FOOD?" everyone screamed.

"Yea, so?" Luffy said bluntly, like it was a normal thing for him.

Zoro choked on his sake.

Sanji fainted

"Yo ho ho, oh young lovee" Brook said

Chopper rushed over to luffy "Luffy! Are you sick? This isn't like you to share!"

Luffy took a bite of his food "I wanted y/n to try it!" He paused and turned to face you. "It's good right?" He smiled

Your heart skipped a beat

'What is going on?!' you thought to yourself.

You composed yourself and grabbed a bite "It's really good luf" you smiled

His smile widened and he started grabbing more food for you.

"Here try this!"

"Try this one too!"

Everyone just stared at you two, too shocked to say something.

"Oh dear" Robin chuckled "It seems our captain has fallen in love"

You choked on your food and Luffy turned to Robin looking confused.

"Huh? What does that mean?" he asked

Robin smiled "It's when you always want to be near a certain person and feel weird around them. You always want to spend time with them and be on their side forever"

Nami sighs "You sure that's not too hard to understand? It's Luffy were talking about"

Luffy grumbles "That's it?"

Everyone nods

Luffy blinked

Looked at you and grinned

"Then I think love y/n a lot!" He exclaimed before he went back to eating

...

...

...

And once again, the room went silent.

You could feel your face on fire and everyone's eyes on you two.

What the fuck just happened?!

"What?! You can't just say that so bluntly!" you scold him, but luffy just laughed.

"Why not?" He pouts "That's what I feel about you but I just never knew what it was"

At this point, your brain couldn't process all this information at once. You open your mouth to say something, but no words came out.

"I-uh" you stutter. Too nervous to say the words about to come out of your mouth.

"Hmm?" He responded

You took a deep breath and said "I love you too then" you smiled.

Everyone's eyes popped out of their head

"WHAT" They all screamed.

Let's just say, nobody expected dinner to turn out like this.

Zoro:

Zoro is slightly obvious about it, but just doesn't realise it.

Because for some reason, he happens to be there wherever you are. If your reading a book while sunbathing? He'll come by after a few minutes to take a nap because 'the sun is nice'

Your passing by while he's training? His eyes follow your figure immediately and never take it off you, easily getting distracted which makes him forget how much reps he's done.

You leave the room? He notices way before anybody does even though he was supposed to be asleep already.

His face turns red everytime you smile at him or tease him. Just do anything as simple as breathing and this guy would be blushing like crazy, because he finds it 'cute'

And when anyone points it out, he says the same exact thing.

"Tch, shut up"

Because Zoro still thinks that he's acting normal. Which he isn't, but he's just simply too stubborn to admit it.

Too stubborn to admit that the way his heart races when he's around you isn't normal.

Too stubborn to admit that the way he always ends up wanting to be around you isn't normal.

Too stubborn to admit that how he feels and how he acts around you isn't normal.

But how can he admit to something he doesn't understand?

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

You guys stopped over at an island to gather some supplies and decided to split up to make the job easier.

And you ended up going shopping with Zoro. Nobody honestly wanted to go with him because of his ability to always some how get lost and it takes too much time to look for him.

Not that either of you were against the idea.

Matter of fact, Zoro would much rather be with you than anyone else.

But of course, he had to get lost and now your stuck walking around looking for him. You took your eyes off him for 30 seconds and he was nowhere to be found.

As your walking around, you see a guy walking towards you. Then, he spoke.

"Hey, your not from around here right?" He stopped in front of you, hands behind his head.

"No, just visiting" you paused "Have you seen a green haired guy with swords on his torso?"

He raised his eyebrow, looking interested "Green hair? Haven't seen him around. A friend of yours? Or something more?"

'Or something more?'

Oh how you wish that was the case

"A friend" you said quickly, feeling a dust of pink creeping up to your face and your heart beating faster than usual.

"Then how about I help you look for him?" He winked "We can get to know each other in the process"

You paused for a moment, unsure of what to say. I mean, this would make the hunt for a certain moss head easier right?

"Ye-" but before you could even accept his offer, you felt a large rough hand on your shoulder.

"She won't be needing any help" a deep gruff familiar voice grumbled near your ear. You could feel his breath against your ear, which caused your whole face and ears to turn red.

Behind you was none other than Roronoa Zoro. His gaze narrowed down on the guy in front of you. He looked at him so intense, it won't be a surprise if he burned a hole through him.

The poor guy slightly trembled, taking tiny steps back. "Hey hey, I was just tryna help this beauty over here"

Zoro's eyes twitched, you could feel his grip on you slightly tightening. Veins showing on his forehead, obviously agitated at a certain person.

"She clearly doesn't need your help anymore"

"Well can't blame a guy for trying" he sighed. "She said your not her boyfriend so why do you care so much?"

That question made Zoro pause. His jaw tightened and his throat felt dry.

As annoying as he is, he has a point.

'Why does he care so much?'

For a moment, no one spoke. The only noises you could hear were vendors promoting their shop, kids running around, people chattering.

Both men just simply stared at each other, not saying anything. Zoro was the first to break the silence, "It's none of your business"

The man stared at Zoro for a moment before letting out a whistle.

"Y'know, I think someone's inlove"

You felt Zoro stiffen beside you.

"What did you just say?"

The guy laughed nervously "I'm just saying, I went and talked to her then you showed up and been glaring at me the whole time. Then you come over here acting like her personal guard dog"

A vein appeared on Zoro's forehead "Watch your mouth"

"You can't tell me you don't like her"

"I don't"

"You do"

"I don't"

"It's obvious"

'Does this guy have a death wish or what???'

You could feel Zoro's patience disappearing. So before things could get any worse, you quickly stepped between them.

"Okay, that's enough from both of you"

The guy immediately took a step backProbably because he realised he might lose his head.

"Alright, alright. I'm leaving" He turned around and winked at you "See you around then beautiful" he said before walking away.

As he walked away, he looked at Zoro one last time.

"Trust me, man. You've got it bad" Then he disappered into the crowd

For a moment, neither you or Zoro said anything.The busy marketplace carried on around you as if nothing happened.

You cleared your throat.

"So..."

Zoro immediately started walking.

"Tch. We still have supplies to get"

You blinked before hurrying after him.

"Heyy, wait up!"

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

After that whole commotion earlier, you and Zoro went back to gathering supplies. But this time, it was unusually quiet.

Normally, you wouldn't think much of it. He wasn't really the talkative type, but today he was quieter than usual.

Usually, you would talk and he would respond properly and listen to you ramble about anything. But today was different. Every time you talk, he'd only answer with a grunt, or a short response before it becomes silent again.

Meanwhile, what the guy said to him kept replaying in his head.

"I think someone's in love"

That's probably the most stupidest thing anyone has ever said to him.

But he couldn't stop thinking about it. Could it be why he always end up near you?

Why he get this weird feeling around you?

Why he get mad when another man tried to get too close to you?

Suddenly, you stop at a stall and picked up something. In your hand was a small cat trinket, a smile spread across your face as you excitedly showed it to Zoro.

"Aw look, it's a cat" you look up to him and smiled brighter than before.

Zoro's breath hitched, and for a moment he just stared at you.

'Why did he get even more nervous when he saw your smile?'

His eyes widened, it all made sense now. The way he would always end up wanting to be near you. The way his heart beats when you smile at him.The way he always notices you without even trying.

And suddenly, maybe the annoying guy from earlier was right.

Tch, you've gotta be kidding me'

You place the trinket down, and notice him just staring at you. His eyes wide open, his breathing uneven, his face all red and flustered.

"... Why are you looking at me like that?"

Your voice snapped him out of it. He looked away fast, while covering his face with one of his hands.

Zoro coughs "I'm not"

"You are"

"I'm not"

A grin slowly spreads across your face.

"Why is your face so red? You look a little flustered"

"It isn't"

"It is"

You stared at him for a little bit before laughing.

"That's cute"

Zoro's head immediately snapped to look at you. His face was redder than it was before

"Eh?!" You laughed even more and kept on walking, completely unaware of the overwhelming situation you put Zoro into.

"Tch, woman wait up!" He snapped back into reality and immediately chased after you.

Ace:

Ace is painfully obvious about it, just not to himself.

Because apparently to his logic, it's normal to spend almost every minute with you. At least his logic says so.

If your sitting alone in the deck, Ace somehow always ends up sitting beside you.

If your helping around in the ship, Ace always finds a reason to help out to.

If your somewhere alone together, he'll stay far longer than he planned.

And when anyone pointed it out

"It's not a big deal"

Because he believes it isn't that big of a deal. So what if he always spends him time around you? You both live in the same ship, so isn't it normal to be around each other often?

But he doesn't realise how he laughs harder than usual when your around.

He doesn't realise that when anything exciting happens, your the first person he wants to tell about it.

And he definitely doesn't realise that he spends more time looking at you than anything else.

But how is he supposed to realise that this feeling is he feels is something else when he's never experienced anything like it before.

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

Everyone in the ship noticed it for a long time, except you or Ace.

Because even with everyone's little comments, you genuinely believe that's just the way he is. Always playful. Always flirty. And really clingy.

'That's just the way he is, right?'

At first, the crew thought they were imagining things. Then they started paying attention.

Marco notices how Ace always sat beside you during his meals. Giving you bits of his food to try because he thought it tastes really good.

Izo noticed how if you both were missing, it's always most likely you both are alone together somewhere.

Thatch noticed how he would get all flustered when you smile, or make physical contact with him.

And Whitebeard noticed everything.

Every time Pops asked about it, Ace always had an excuse.

"She's funny"

"I like talking to her"

"Whats the big deal?"

Eventually, everyone just started making bets on how long it will take until Ace realises his feelings for you is 'more than friends'

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

Everyone's gathered around one of the tables, eating and talking after a long day. And among those people was Ace telling a story, about you.

Again.

"...And then she tripped over a bucket and somehow blamed me for it"

Everyone laughed, including Ace as he takes another bite of his food.

Then Marco spoke, "You know... You talk about her a lot"

Ace shrugged

"So?..."

Thatch repeated "So?"

"So?" Ace said again

Everyone exchanged looks, then Marco sighed.

"Ace"

"What?"

"Your in love with her"

Ace laughed

"What? Me?" He snickered. Then he looked around and saw that nobody was laughing.

Marco looked completely serious

Thatch looked completely serious

Izo looked completely serious

Pops is just silently grinning

Ace slowly stopped laughing,"... Wait" he paused "You guys are serious?"

Marco nodded, "Very"

Ace immediately shook his head, "No way, seriously?"

Thatch leaned forward. "Seriously"

Everyone shared another look, before they started interrogating him.

"You always sit next to her every meal"

"So?"

"You share food with her"

"And?"

"You spend all day with her"

"We live in the same ship?"

"You started blushing like crazy when he pulled you in a side hug"

A slight tint of pink spreads across his face.

"I did not"

"You did"

"That doesn't prove anything"

Everyone sighed

"Fine" Marco replied. "Where is she right now?"

Without thinking, his eyes dart across the room trying to look for you. He looked at every corner, the door, the stairs, the deck. He looked everywhere but you were no where to be seen.

"She's taking forever, I'll look for her" But before he could stand up, a hand grabs his wrists and stops him.

"See? You didn't even think about it" Marco smirked

"Huh?"

"See? You always do that. The second she's not around, you start looking for her. You always find some excuse to be near her."

The room went completely silent. Ace froze as his eyes slowly widen when the realisation hits him.

Everyone immediately started laughing, exchanging money.

"Pay up"

"I told you it would happen by the end of this month"

"I said before the next island"

All this commotion going on, and Ace was just silent. Because for the first time, he's finally realising that maybe there's more to it. More to the feelings he gets around you.

The way he always wants to talk to you.

The way he always wants to be around you.

The way being around you just felt right.

And suddenly, maybe they weren't wrong. Maybe he is in love

Ace slowly dragged a hand down his face.

"Your joking right?"

And that made the laugher somehow louder than it already was before.

"Nope" Thatch replied.

Pops let out a laugh, "Took you long enough

Shanks:

Nobody really noticed when it started. Not because Shanks was trying to hide it, but he just simply didn't realise what he was doing.

Somehow he would always end up wherever you are every time. You two would just always end up... alone together.

Like how he was only supposed to tell you something little for five minutes turning into thirty minutes.

How every time he makes you laugh with his corny jokes he suddenly gets this weird feeling.

Times like that just ended up getting longer and longer just because neither of you want to stop the conversation.

Shanks never thought much about it. It was simple really. He just found it easy and comfortable to talk to you.

It just slipped its way into his routine without him realising.

And when one of the crew points it out he'd just laugh it off.

Because in his mind, he didn't think anything was going on.

You were just you, fun to talk to that's why he keeps going to you.

At least that's what he told himself.

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

The realisation happened in the most random way possible.

The crew stopped by an island to get some supplies, and of course you eneded up spending the whole day with your captain.

Not that you both planned it, it just naturally happened like always.

You both walked around the market, stopping by random stalls and talking about anything.

As you both were walking around, you spotted a stall filled with fruits.

"Shanks look" you tugged on his shirt and pointed at the stall "Those apples look juicy, can we check it out?"

He looked over and chuckled, "Of course.. anything for you"

You roll your eyes at his usual playfulness before walking over to the stall.

An elderly woman running the stall smiles at you two. "Hello, would you like to buy some apples?"

You smile back at her, "Yes please, can we get a kilo of apples?"

Shanks grabbed some money from his pocket before handing it to her.

"Thank you young man, just pick one of those bags"

You look around the table of bagged apples, looking for the best looking ones. Then, you spotted one in the middle of the bunch. But before you could get them, a hand grabs them before you can.

"They're heavy, I'll carry them for you"

Shanks grabs the bag and smiles at you. "It's one kilo, it's not that heavy. You're already holding something, and you've only got one arm. Let me do it" you argue.

He sticks his tongue out "No, let me carry it"

You open your mouth to argue with him some more before you heard the elderly woman giggle a bit.

"Oh what a lovely couple"

You both immediately froze.

"Oh no we're not together"

Beside you, Shanks laughed.

"Not even close"

The woman chuckled before returning to packaging the apples.

Neither of you thought much of it before continuing shopping.

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

The day went on like usual, you both walked around did your thing and talked. You pointed out things you like or need for the ship, and he ends up carrying most of them even with how much you argue.

Nothing unusual

Nothing different

But still, his mind went back to what that old lady said.

'Oh what a lovely couple'

Thats stupid, you were just friends

Really good friends. That was all to it

So why is he still bothered about it?

Why can't he stop thinking about it?

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

By the time the sun set, you both were back at the ship. Everyone was scattered around the ship's deck, conversations overlapping, crates being moved, people laughing and chatting.

You went and immediately started getting pulled into conversations. Laughing and helping around the ship.

Shanks was leaning on a railing near you, just watching for a moment.

Just... thinking

And in that moment, he noticed something he didn't think much of before.

How his attention always softened and drifted back to you. How he always changes his schedules around just to be with you.

How it felt natural and comfortable around you. And that comment the woman made slowly started to make sense now.

Why people always assume something going on between you two just simply because he acts like it.

Because there is something going on

Well for him at least...

Shanks exhaled through his nose, one hand rubbing the back of his neck as a slow smile formed on his face.

"... That's a problem" he muttered a little softly.

Across the deck, Benn glanced over to him. "Your doing it again"

Shanks continued to look at you.

"What am I doing?"

"The staring"

That earned a quiet laugh from him, low and brief, like he already knew the answer.

He didn’t deny it.

Didn’t ignore it either.

Just let it sit there

"…Yeah" Shanks admitted under his breath.

Then, almost like it caught him off guard even as he said it

He gave a small sigh.

"Damn… I think I’m in love with her."

Law:

Law isn't that obvious about it.

Not because he's good at hiding it, but it's just because nobody thought their captain was capable of falling in love.

It's just simply because he's naturally quiet, distant and cold. The type of person who would rather lock himself up in his room than spend and get to know people.

So even when someone had a slight suspicion, they would usually brush it off.

Because isn't it normal for the captain to remember every little thing about a certain crewmate more than others?

Or why he always know or want to know where you are.

Or how he notices you more than anyone else.

Or how he would always stay by your side and barely leave unless important when your sick?

It's because he's the captain and the doctor, paying close attention to his crew is simply his job.

That's what he thinks at least.

Just a responsibility

Just you.

But Law can't stop wondering why he pays more attention to you more than the others.

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

You went out for a quick trip in town to get some supplies you forgot to buy. It was just supposed to be quick and simple, but of course luck was just simply not on your side today.

Because somehow, this island had to be under watch by an vice admiral without you or the crew knowing.

Vice admiral Gou is a new marine officer known for being ruthless and merciless. Gou wasn't really famous like the other admirals, but he still earned a reputation for not letting his targets escape.

And of course, you just had to cross paths with him.

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

Back on the submarine, Law was busy as usual in his office.

You were supposed to only be gone for a little while. But that little while turned into an hour, then two.

He let out a long exhausted sigh, you should have been back by now.

Maybe you got distracted

Maybe you got lost

Maybe-

But before he could think of the worst, someone knocked on the door.

"Captain" Bepo said before opening the door. "I'm worried, it's been a while and she still hasn't come back"

Law stood up and grabbed his sword next to him. "I'm going out, watch the ship for me" he said before walking towards the door.

Bepo stepped aside, making a way out for his captain.

"I hope she's okay..."

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

The moment he reached town, he could clearly tell something was wrong.

People were running around the streets screaming, a few buildings damaged and the ground was cracked in multiple places.

His heart sank as he immediately thought of you.

Then, he overheard people talking

"A pirate fought that new vice admiral Gou"

"She never stood a chance against him"

He froze, trying to process what he just heard

Then he ran, as quickly as he can.

"Damn it, what did you get yourself into" he cursed to himself.

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

After running around the streets, he was starting to lose hope on finding you.

But then there you were, soaked in blood.

You were sitting against a broken wall with chunks of rubble around you. Your clothes were torn, blood staining almost you whole body and the ground under you.

For one second, Law's heart stopped. His mind jumping to the worst possible things.

You weren't moving, you were too still. His chest tightened so bad it hurt.

'What the hell happened here?!'

He immediately ran towards you, heart beating faster than ever. His hands shakly grabbed both your shoulders. The sight of you like this made his heart clench, he couldn't simply stop the tears threatening to come out of his eyes.

He was scared, a feeling he hasn't felt this intense in years.

You felt something wet drop on your face. You struggled to keep your eyes open, only managing to open them barely.

"... Captain?..."

It was a surprise you managed to find the strength to say that. It was a relief that you were still conscious.

"What were you thinking?!" his voice came out harsher than expected. But even while he's scolding you, he's checking your injuries.

Already trying to stop the bleeding

Already making sure your pulse is still there.

Because no matter how angry he was at your stupidity, he was still worried sick about you.

He carefully lifted you into his arms, making sure not to make sudden movements.

Please

Just stay alive

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

Back at the submarine, he immediately took care of you and did everything he can to make sure you'll be okay.

He spent long hours, trying to patch you up while the crew waited outside the room. They've never seen Law like this before.

Usually he was calm and collected, but right now he seemed scared and panicked.

And finally after a long time, he finished treating you.

But even though you survived, you still weren't awake.

A day passed, then another

During that time you were in a coma, Law spent all his time in your room.

Sometimes he'll sit beside your bed while reading one of his medical books.

Sometimes he'll try to work, but most of the time he'd just simply watch the steady rise and fall of your chest. Waiting for you to wake up

Making sure you were still breathing. The crew immediately noticed Law would never leave your room.

Because every time they came to visit you, Law was there.

Like he's afraid that if he left, something would happen to you.

◠◡◠◡◠◡◠

A few days later when your eyes finally opened, Law was right there sitting next to your bed. Like he always had for the past week waiting for you to wake up.

For a moment neither of you spoke, just savouring each other's company.

Then he let out a breath that sounded almost shaky.

"Your an idiot"

Your throat felt dry as you try to form words in your mouth.

"Nice to see you too" you tried to smile, but you felt too weak to do so.

"You nearly died"

The words came out sharper than he thought.

You notice the dark circles under his eyes, how his shoulders slowly start to loosen up. He looked exhausted, like he hasn't slept properly in a while.

Seeing you finally awake made him feel a sense of relief. He didn't have time worry about something happening to you during your slumber.

You stare at him for a moment.

"Have you slept? You looked exhausted"

Law looked away "That's not important"

But it was, because it got him thinking why was he acting like this all of the sudden?

He never acted this panicked when one of the crew almost died once.

But with you it was different. How many hours he spent locked in your room the whole time you were in a coma.

The constant need to check on you, to make sure you were still breathing.

The fear he felt when he thought about losing you.

And that's when the gears in his head fit into place.

The reason why seeing you covered in blood made his heart drop.

The reason why the thought of losing you scared him more than anything else.

The reason why he couldn't leave your side no matter how many times he told himself to get some rest.

Law lowered his gaze, his shoulder resting against the arm rest of his chair.

"...Seriously?"

The words slipped out of his mouth before he could stop it.

Because after everything, it all finally made sense to him.

It wasn't just because he was scared of losing a crew member.

He didn't just notice you more because you were a crewmate

Because at some point...

kiss him for the first time, he would definitely freeze up and turn red. Then when you pull away from the kiss, he's completely frozen for a second. Then he mutters a quiet "tch" before looking the other way to hide his face. He'd probably avoid eye contact for a short while because his face heats up immediately. It would probably be in a private place because I don't think he's into PDA. Sure you both can link arms, hold hands, or a short hug. But that's it for him, anything else is a no. And kissing him when it's just the two of you just makes it more romantic and special.

➵Sanji would absolutely kiss you first. This guy perfectly planned every single second for this moment. It would definitely be somewhere romantic, like a sunset at the beach after a candle lit dinner. He'd stare into your eyes lovingly as he grabs the side of your face, asking "May I?" Because Sanji is an absolute gentleman and would always ask for consent, just incase you're not comfortable doing something. And after the kiss, he would probably say something cheesy like "oh the gods have blessed me with a kiss from a goddess" before fainting. Don't get me wrong he really tried to keep hiscomposure, but he can't help feeling this way about you.

➵Ace would impulsively kiss you first. It would probably happen in a place where you're both alone after everything went quiet. He's admiring you one moment then the next he ends up actually kissing you because why not? When you both pull away, Ace would then realise what he just did and get all flustered. Stuttering and fidgeting trying to explain himself. Then you shut him up by kissing him again, which made him more nervous and flustered.

➵Shanks would kiss you first. You both would be in a place alone together, and Shanks just decides "yep this is the right moment" and kisses you (it is the right moment). It could be on the ship deck late at night under the stars or in a field of flowers. He'd probably tease you first a little then as you laugh at his teasing. Then you notice he's just smiling at you, holding his gaze for a second longer than usual before leaning in and kissing you. Afterwards, he'd probably grin and say something stupid to tease you about it.

➵Law would maybe kiss you first. Law would think about it for way too long and over analyze the moment until it passes. This guy has tried so many times to kiss you but his mind gets in the way and the perfect opportunity slips. Law prefers a quiet atmosphere and no people except you both for anything like a first kiss like under the stars or while lying down somewhere private. And when it actually does happen, his whole body becomes slightly tense and controlled. Afterwards, on the outside he looks completely fine with a slight blush on his cheek. Internally is a different story, this guy's mind over analysis every moment and his whole mind becomes a disaster. But if he took too long and you kiss him first, Law would be a disaster inside and out. He'd freeze and get all flustered and shy trying to hide his face. And when you make a comment or tease him about it he'd say "Shut it" and hide his face from you.

➵Kidd would kiss you first, but in an angry way. The first kiss would probably happen mid argument or when your both annoyed at each other. You would be arguing with him, scolding him for being reckless then he just harshly grabs your face and shut you up with a kiss. I imagine the first kiss would be rough and brash. That's just simply his nature. Then when he pulls away and you say "What was that for?!", he grumbles and replies like "tch, you won't shut up". Then you scold him even more because that was your first kiss and he just took it in the least romantic moment.

➵Doflamingo would kiss you first. He'd kiss you when the moment feels like it for him. It'd be both soft and rough and completely in his terms. Doflamingo would grab your cheek all of the sudden and kiss you. He's also definitely really confident and cocky about the whole thing. And afterwards when you ask him "What was that for?" Because you completely didn't expect it, he'd just grins and say "Why, cat got your tounge?". And would definitely tease you if you suddenly get all shy and flustered.

➵Smoker would kiss you first, but you'd have to wait for a long time. Unlike Luffy and Ace, Smoker isn't impulsive at all. He's the type to think things through and definitely at the right moment. It would probably happen where something happens after a moment of tension and he just stops thinking and does it. Like getting separated during a battle and he gets worried because he can't find you. Then afterwards, he finally finds you and just pulls you in for a kiss suddenly. He'd lean his forehead on top of yours and say "Don't disappear on me like that ever again" because this guy genuinely loves you and can't bear the thought of losing you.

➵Crocodile would kiss you first. Once he decides he wants to kiss you, it will happen. Because one thing about Crocodile is that once he decides something, he'll follow through with it. If the moment was interrupted by somebody walking in or some other reason, he'll shoot them a glare and continue with what he planned. It would be both slow and rough, because he's just never been the type to rush. Then afterwards he just looks into your eyes and smile at you, which is a rare sight considering how composed and nonchalant he is. Matter of fact, you're probably the only person that can make him smile genuinely.

.

.

It's currently almost 2 in the morning and your getting ready for bed after drinking and partying all night.

Knock

Knock

Knock

You try to ignore the knocking, wanting to go to sleep.

Knock

Knock

No matter how much you tried to ignore it, the knocking just got louder and louder until you couldn't stand it anymore.

Standing up from your bed, you storm towards the door ready to throw hands at the person behind the door.

Pulling the door open, you open your mouth, ready to shout at the person but then before you could react, a pair of large arms suddenly wrap around your body.

"Huh?" You yelped.

"Y/n" he mumbles.

Your eyes widen, recognizing his voice.

A deep flush of red spreads across your face.

"Ace? What are you doing" you try to move away slightly but failed.

His grip on your body tightened slightly at the feeling of you moving.

"Mhm, why baby?" He whispers in your ear.

"Why won't you m'just look at me?" he sniffled.

"What? Why huh?" you asked, confused.

He trembled against you, and you could feel tears soaking your shirt.

"Ace?" you pull back a little, just to meet his gaze.

His hold on you loosens a little, letting you pull back a little.

His black hair was messy and all over the place. A flush of pink spread across his face. He looked drunk and exhausted, trying hard not to let the tears in his eyes fall down again.

You cup his cheek, and wiped the tears falling from his eyes. "What's wrong?"

He leaned onto your touch, tilting his face onto your hand.

"You're what's wrong" He grumbled.

“You looked so happy talking to that guy tonight,” Ace muttered, refusing to meet your eyes.

“The one that kept flirting with you.”

You frowned slightly. “Really? I dont even know the guy.”

“That doesn't really matter” he whispered.

“He got your attention so easily” He chuckled

“And I’ve been trying forever and you just brush me away”

Your chest tightened at his words.

“Ace…”

“I know I flirt a lot,” he explained. “But Im serious about you”

For a moment, all you could do was stare at him.

“I thought you were joking around” you admitted softly.

“You act like that with everyone, so I didn’t think you were serious and I was scared of embarrassing myself” you explained.

Ace finally looked up at you, eyes red and glassy. “So you really didn’t know?”

You shook your head before pressing your lips on his cheek.

“Idiot,” you mumbled, smiling a little.

The bar was extremely loud when you walked in.

The sound of mugs clinking together and laughter filled the room. The familiar sight of the Red haired pirates, enjoying their time together drinking booze and laughing together.

Your eyes dart across the room, and lands on a familiar red haired man.

Shanks was in the middle of all this mess, laughing carefree, arm slung over a chair, listening to someone's story.

Flirting too

The waitress in front of him blushed when he leaned in to say something. She giggled at whatever he said and put her hand on top of his, obviously flirting back.

And for some reason, it made your heart sink the moment you saw it.

His gaze keeps looking at the door while flirting with the waitress in front of him.

Like he was looking for someone.

But before you could think much of it, those familiar dark brown eyes landed on yours.

His entire face changed and that charming smile of his widened the moment he saw your face.

"Finally, there you are beautiful" he pulls out an empty seat beside him and signals you to come on over.

Surprisingly no one was sitting on even with all the people inside.

You roll your eyes at the nickname and walk towards him. "Saved me a spot? How sweet of you" you say as you sat down at the empty seat.

"Of course I did," he replies before taking another sip of his drink. "Rather sit next to a princess instead of those idiots"

Roux let out a loud snort and Yassop laughed loudly from across the table.

"You threatened me when I tried to sit there" Yassop said while laughing.

Shanks ignored them and focused his attention to you.

"What took you so long? I was waiting for you for forever" he asks.

You chuckled, "Why, you missed me already?"

A slight tint of red spreads across his face, but you didn't notice it. "Missed your company gorgeous" he smirked.

"Yea yea whatever" you roll your eyes swatting him away before focusing your attention to the conversation at the table, trying to ignore the way your heart fluttered because of a certain man beside you.

Calm down, he's like this with everyone

The crew continued enjoying their night, laughing and drinking around you while music played in the background.

You couldn't help but notice how Shanks fit into all of this perfectly. Always laughing, smiling, flirting like always.

But his attention always goes back to you.

Every time you spoke, he turned his attention fully at you listening of every word you had to say and laugh at every joke you made.

When you finish your drink, he would refill it for you almost immediately.

Even when somebody's talking to him, his eyes still go back to you.

You try not to think much of it. 'It's Shanks, he does that with anyone. That's just how he is'

Friendly. Charming. Confident

Everyone loved him.

But for some reason, realising that the attention he gives you and the compliments he gives is the same attention he gives to everyone.

You were nothing special

And that thought made your stomach twist for some unknown reason.

───

It's been an hour and you felt the need to use the bathroom.

"I need to go to the bathroom, I'll be back" you said over the noise.

Shanks immediately looked up "Take your time beautiful" he smiled.

You rolled your eyes again at him and was about to stand up before a hand wrapped around your wrist, causing you to sit back down.

You turn around to look at him, and he suddenly leaned close towards your ear.

Holy shit

"You really like rolling your eyes at me huh?" he whispered

"Yea cause your always spouting nonsense" you whisper back.

"I like your eyes," he murmured "I like them even more when you roll them at me" he grinned

"But I can make them roll back farther another way"

"If you know what I mean" he winked

A deep flush of red spreads across your cheek and you immediately turn away to hide it.

"Shut up idiot" you grumble as you stood up and finally walk to the bathroom, leaving the man laughing loudly to himself.

The second you disappeared from his sight, his gaze followed after you unconsciously.

Benn noticed

"Captain, your staring again"

"No I'm not"

"Your gonna burn a hole through her back"

Shanks ignored him, taking another sip of his sake. His mind going back to that little interaction you both just had.

Thinking about what just happened me that grin on his face wider.

The way you got all flustered and shy when he leaned in way too close to you

'Cute' he smiled to himself

───

What the fuck was that about

Your face heats up once again once more and your heart doing that stupid thing it does every time your around a certain red haired man.

You know he's like this with almost everyone, but for some reason your heart keeps deciding to ignore thay fact and go crazy around him.

He probably doesn't even like me like that

Oh how wrong you were

You try to compose yourself and focuse on getting to the bathroom, but you noticed 2 figures standing near the bathroom.

One of them whistles at your direction and the second one walks towards you while the other followed.

"What's a pretty looking thing like you doing walking around lonely" the second one asked, grinning.

"I'm alright, you replied blantly, trying to walk around them.

The first guy moved in front of you again.

"C'mon, don't be like that. Where you running off too sweetheart"

You glare at him, hoping he would take the hint.

"Move it"

Instead of leaving you alone, you felt fingers wrap around hour wrist and your body tensed instantly.

"I thought I told you to move?" you try to pull your hand away from him, but his grip on your wrist was too strong.

"Relax sweetheart, we're just talking"

"Get your hands off her" a familiar voice behind you says calmly.

Too calm

The two men infront of you suddenly went stiff.

You notice their terrified faces and slowly looked behind you.

Standing behind you was no other than Shanks.

He wasn't smiling anymore, or that teasing look on his face.

His face looked serious, glaring at the man holding your wrist.

The guy holding your wrist laughed nervously "My bad red haired, I didn't know she was your girl"

"she's not mine" he said coldly "but if you don't let her go you'll lose that hand"

The guy holding your wrist hesitate for one second too long before a punch landed on his face instantly.

The sound of the guy falling echoed through the hallway and the guy behind him instantly backed off.

He turned to face you fully "you okay?"

You nodded "yeah"

His shoulders loosened up a little and he grinned at you like he always does. Like nothing happened.

"Good" he muttered

"Let's go back" he says as he starts walking to the bar and you followed behind him.

───

You both went back to the table shortly after and sat down.

The crew immediately noticed the tension.

Lucky looked between you two while Benn sighed into his drink like he was tired.

Before anyone can say something, the bar doors suddenly slammed open.

Several marines stormed inside and you noticed 2 familiar men walking in with them.

"There they are" the guy that got punched earlier pointed at you and the crew "the bastard who did this to my face"

Everyone looked at your table instantly.

Shanks sighed and stood up from his chair

"Well, this is depressing" Yassop muttered under his breathe.

The marines wasted no time to surround the area.

"Red haired Shanks" a marine spoke "You and your crew are under arrest"

A laugh echoed through the bar.

Shanks grinned "You walked in here with less than 100 men? That's the first"

"Reinforcements will come shortly" the marine says.

"Better finish this quickly before they arrive then" Shanks says.

Then, everyone started fighting

Tables flipped over while pirates and marines fought each other across the room.

You ducked out of the way when someone got thrown across the bar. The fight spread through the whole bar already.

While fighting, your eyes suddenly landed on something small hiding under one of the tables. A kid.

They looked terrified, curled up tightly while people fought all around them.

Your chest tightened immediately. Who even brings a kid to a bar?!

Before you could move towards the kid, a marine nearby got shoved backward hard by one of the crew.

His grip slipped on his gun. Panic spread across his face instantly as he saw the little girl under the table.

“Stay back!” he shouted frantically. The gun suddenly fired twice.

Your eyes widened when you realized exactly where one of them was going to hit. Straight to the little girl.

Your body moved before your brain could process it. You threw yourself between the kid and the bullet.

You felt a sharp pain on your stomach almost immediatley.

The pain knocked the air from your lungs as your body slammed against the floor.

The child cried behind you while the sounds around you slowly became muffled. Then you heard someone scream out something

Your name

Shank's voice sounded panicked. The moment he saw the blood pooling around you, something in him snapped.

An intense pressure flooded the bar, so intense that the marines near him collapsed where they were standing.

Even the Red Hair pirates went silent.

His expression had gone completely empty as he walked towards you in seconds.

The marine holding the gun collapsed under the pressure of his haki before Shanks even reached him.

His attention stayed completely on you instead. He went on his knees beside you so quickly.

He carefully pulled you against him.

“Hey,” he said quickly, he sounded scared for the first time since you known him.

“Hey, look at me.” Your eyes barely opened. Blood stained his fingers instantly.

His expression cracked the moment he saw it.

“Medic!” Benn shouted immediately, already moving toward you both. Shanks cupped your face carefully, his breathing uneven now.

“Stay with me,” he whispered shakily. “Please.”

Then it went black

───

The first thing you noticed was the warmt under the blankets.

Then the sharp pain on your stomach

You opened your eyes and looked around your surroundings.

The room was quiet and dim.

You felt something holding your hand tightly beside you.

Shanks was sleeping beside your bed, holding your hand tightly.

He looked exhausted.

His hair all messed up and there were dark circles around his eyes.

Your fingers moved slightly.

Then his eyes opened immediatley.

For a moment he just stared at you.

Then he smiles "Your awake"

His grip on your hand tightened.

Then you noticed that his eyes looked a little red. Like he'd been crying.

"You scared me" his voice cracked slightly and tears build up in his eyes.

Your heart broke when you saw it.

Shanks lowered his head slightly, resting his forehead against your hand.

"I thought I lost you" he admitted quietly.

He sounded terrified saying it. Not like the usual captain you knew.

"You stayed?" you asked quietly.

His eyes lifted back toward yours immediately. "Obviously"

The room went quiet again after that.

His thumb rubbed gently against your hand without him even realizing it.

Then he let out a small laugh quietly to himself.

"Benn told me I was being too obvious"

You blinked "Obvious?"

"The staring"

You felt your cheeks warm up

"How my attention never leaves you"

You looked away slightly.

"The fact I almost killed those two for touching you"

You let out a small laugh.

Shanks smiled softly at the sound. Then his expression softened again as he looked at you.

"I mean it though" he said quietly. His fingers tightened around yours slightly.

"I think I love you" he confesses

Your heart beats faster the moment you hear those words leave his mouth.

You always thought u weren't special

Oh how wrong you were

"I... " you gather the courage to say the words that you've been trying so hard not to admit.

The feeling you get when he got too close, or complimented you.

That feeling

"I think I love you too" you confessed

His eyes widened as he tried to process the words that came out of your mouth.

He smiles and gently cupped your cheek, then he kissed you.

The kiss was soft and warm, but also intense.

You both pull away, trying to catch your breaths.

He kisses your nose "You have no idea how long I've been wanting to do that"

You let out a small chuckle before it went silent.

Just looking at each other enjoying the momemt.

︾︾︾

Currently, your sitting at a diner where you and Choso have your usual date nights. It wasn't anything fancy, just a small diner near the campus.

Your fingers tap against the wooden table impatiently. It's been an hour since he was supposed to be here and your're starting to feel impatient.

Your gaze went towards the door as the bell above it chimed. Each time it opened, you felt a rush of excitement just for it to be replaced with disappointment to see it was just another customer.

A waitress walked over towards you with a smile "Would you like to order anything else while you wait?"

You forced a small smile and shook your head "No thank you"

The milkshake across from you began to melt. You ordered Choso's favorite milkshake so it'd be there when he arrives. But it just sat there, untouched.

Your phone suddenly buzzed against the table, a notification from your boyfriend.

'I'm sorry baby, I have to cancel. I have a really important band meeting tonight. You know how busy I've been lately preparing for the talent show and sorry about that. Maybe next week?'

For some reason, you weren't surprised he forgot about your date. After all, he's been so busy with everything that you barely got to see him lately.

Every time there was a rehearsal, then a meeting, then a performance. Every time, there was a reason. Every time, he apologized and promised next time. Every time, you told him it was okay.

Sure it hurt a bit, but it's only for a short time right? After the talent show, he's going to have more free time for you right?

'It's okay, same time next week?' you quickly typed up.

Not even a second later, he replies back. 'Of course, love you babe💕 '

You turn off your phone and take a sip of your milkshake before heading out.

A small smile tugged at your lips despite the disappointment feeling in your chest.

You know he isn't doing it on purpose.

Choso had never been the type to intentionally hurt you.

He was just… busy. That's all.

As you walk back to the campus, you couldn't help but try to convince yourself with the same thought you'd had for weeks.

'It's only until the talent show… After that thinks would go back to normal'

Right…?

︾︾︾

Finally, the day of the talent show arrived. The crowd cheered as the judges announced this year's talent show winner.

"At first place let's give it up for... THE KAMO BOYS!!!"

The room exploded into cheers, and everyone stood up from their seats clapping and cheering. The lights shone brightly against Choso and his bandmates as they stood there, taking in the scene in front of them.

They won

It made you feel a sense of pride, seeing him achive everything he's worked so hard for.

All the late night practices, all the rehearsals, all the missed dates. The effort they've put into this has finally paid off. And you couldn't be anymore proud of him.

He's finally got everything he ever wanted.

You watched from the crowd, smiling to yourself. Even ththough things between you two have been different lately and you barely get to spend time with him anymore, it still made you happy that it wasn't all for nothing.

As the crowd made their way towards the stage to congratulate them, you slowly joined them and make your way towards Choso with a big smile on your face.

Everyone wanted to congratulate him and tell him about how amazing he did tonight. Asking questions and trying to get his attention.

You wait for him to notice you, to look for you, like how he normally does.

As time stretched, it seemed like he was too busy to look for you.

But no matter how many people wanted his attention, he usually always searched for you first.

'I mean... It's okay right...? I can talk to him later at the diner since we have a date tonight...'

is head turned to your direction, and starts making his way towards your direction.

A small smile spreads across your face as you opened your arms, wanting to pull him into your arms.

"CHOSO MY MANN!" a loud familiar voice behind you shouts.

Choso instantly smiled and walked towards Gojo, skimming past you.

Oh...

Gojo pushed through the crowds with a grin on his face, immediately throwing an arm around Choso.

"Dude that was insane! I knew you played good but I didn't know you were THAT good"

Choso laughed, his smile growing wider "Your over exaggerating it"

"He's not" Geto chimed in, walking over the two with Toji and Sukuna. "Your the hot topic right now. Everyone's talking about you"

Sukuna smirked "Not gonna lie, Kamo. I thought you were just gonna embarrass yourself up there."

Choso raised an eyebrow and chuckled "Wow, thanks"

Toji grins and pats him in the shoulder "Someone's getting popular"

Choso laughed at their comments, shaking his head.

You watched quietly as the group of frats surround him. And it made you realise just how different things became between you two.

Before, Choso was someone who would always look for you first. He would find you in a crowd, and make sure you were there beside him.

But things are different now

Everyone wanted his attiention, and he's enjoying every single part of it. Not that you hated it, this was his dream after all.

But you didn't expect things between you two to change.

Then, you overheard Gojo talking about some kind of party.

Choso looked confused "Celebration party for me?"

"Obviously" Gojo laughed, "You won the talent show, we gotta celebrate tonight"

"A big one" Sukuna said

"You have to come, it's not like you have plans tonight right?" Geto added

Choso smiled "Nah I'm free tonight"

The group cheered, then started making their way towards the exit while talking about how tonight party would be one of the best.

Your heart dropped as you stood there in disbelief. 'Did he just ditch our date or did he forget?'

The auditorium slowly became quieter as students began leaving the room. Leaving you just standing there, lost in your thoughts.

'Yea he just forgot right..?' You try to convince yourself as you grab out your phone and started typing.

'Where are you? Aren't we going out tonight?'

You start walking towards the exit, until you felt your phone buzz against your hand.

'Sorry baby. The band's got an important meeting tonight after all the talent show stuff. I can't tonight 🤍'

A meeting...???

He just walked out with his friends planning a party not his bandmates.

Did he just lie to you???

You replied with a thumbs up before putting your phone back in your pocket.

Anger and frustration came crashing onto you as you think about tonight's events. You just didn't get why he lied to you.

You told yourself that it was all your imagination, that nothing has changed between you two.

But now, you couldn't even convince yourself that everything was fine and nothing was wrong.

Because things aren't the way they used to be.

︾︾︾

It's been a week since the talent show, and you and Choso have grown farther apart than it used to be.

You havent seen him once since then, except for when he's surround by people at the campus.

Even when you text him, his replies are always short. And when you call him, it's rarely answered.

You stopped trying to talk to him after the third day. It's not like you were angry, you just feel hurt.

"Come on" your best friend Shoko sighed. "You can't stayed locked up here forever"

"I don't feel like partying" you mumble as you pull the covers higher.

"I know" she smiled softly "But maybe going out for one night would help"

After a few minutes of silence, a long defeated sigh escaped your lips.

"Fine..."

A big smile appered on Shoko's face, "Finally! Let's get ready then" she pulls the covers down and pulls you up.

And for the first time in a while, you smiled.

︾︾︾

Music and laughter echoed throughout the frat house as students squeezed past eachother with red cups in their hands. Music blasted throughout the place, so loud you could barely hear yourself think.

You held onto Shoko's hand tightly as you both walk through the hallway of people.

"I'm gonna grab us a drink. I'll be back okay?" she shouted over the music.

You nodded before she disappeared into the crowd. As you stand there alone, you look around the place. Students danced in the living room while a huge group of people crowded over the kitchen, watching a game of beer pong.

Gojo stood on the table laughing and yelling at everyone while Geto laughed from below.

You gaze past them, then it stopped. Your heart dropped as you saw the scene infront of you.

Choso stood in the middle of the room, laughing with a group of people gathered around him.

Then you noticed her, a blonde long haired girl standing beside him with her arm wrapped around his. It was Yuki, the girl that was rumored to have an obvious crush on your boyfriend.

She was laughing and smiling, leaning against him comfortably as she spoke with everyone around them.

The room around you seem to disappear as the music and laughter muffled.

You stared at him, waiting for him to push her away. But he didn't, he just stood there without knowing that your seeing everything.

Your chest tightened as your mind starts going through a million possibilities. Maybe... Just maybe...

Then suddenly, his head turned, meeting your eyes.

His smile disappeared and eyes widened as he met your eyes.

"What...?"

Yuki followed his gaze before quickly letting go of his arm.

"W-wait... " but you had already turned around, making your way to the exit.

"Wait!" he shouted, pushing through the crowd to chase after you.

You make your way to the exit, pushing through everyone in your way. The music slowly dying down as the cool nights breeze hits you.

Footsteps followed close behind before a gentle hand wrapped around your wrist.

"Please... just listen to me."

You stopped, slowly pulling your wrist from his grasp before turning to face him. His breathing was uneven from running after you, panic written all over his face.

"It's not what you think" he said quickly. "Yuki just grabbed onto me. I didn't know she was going to..."

Before he could finish, your hand struck his cheek. The sharp sound echoed through the quiet street, leaving both of you frozen.

Choso stared at you in shock, his hand slowly lifting to the side of his face while your own trembled from what you'd just done.

"I trusted you" you whispered, your voice beginning to crack. "You said you were busy... you said you had band meeting."

Choso's eyes softened. "I know... and I'm sorry"

"You don't get it" you interrupted, shaking your head. "Every time you cancelled, I told myself it was okay because you were chasing your dream. I kept thinking that once the talent show was over, everything would go back to normal."

A tear rolled down your cheek before another quickly followed. "But it didn't"

"You forgot our date, you forgot about me after the show..." You let out a shaky breath, struggling to hold yourself together. "And now I walk into a party and see another girl wrapped around you while you didn't even notice I was there"

"I wasn't with her" Choso said desperately. "I swear, I wasn't"

"This isn't about Yuki" you said quietly.

Silence settled between the two of you as your tears continued to fall.

"It's about us. It's about how I don't even feel like your girlfriend anymore"

You wiped at your face, letting out a small laugh that sounded more broken than amused. "I'm so tired of waiting for you, Choso"

He took a cautious step closer, reaching out as if to comfort you. "I'm going to fix this. I promise"

You slapped his hand away before it could touch you.

"No."

Your voice was barely above a whisper. "I gave you so many chances"

Another tear slipped down your cheek as you looked at him one last time.

"...We're done"

For the first time, Choso didn't know what to say.

You and your boyfriend have been dating for 3 weeks now. And so far, everything has been going surprisingly well.

He was everything a woman can ask for, caring, sweet, understanding, and don't even get me started about his face and body card.

But one thing about him is that he never initiates affection. Sure, you guys hugged and kissed, but it's always you who starts them. It was expected honestly; he just never seemed to be the type.

Today, you and the straw hats went off to explore a new island. But someone had to stay on the ship to make sure nothing happens to the ship and everyone's stuff.

Zoro, your boyfriend ended up being the one that had to stay this time. So, you went off with everyone else, wanting to explore the island.

After spending the whole day on the island, you guys decided it was time to come back for dinner.

After you guys came back, there was time left before dinner and you boyfriend was nowhere to be seen, so you decided to take a quick shower.

You walk towards the shower, looking forward to finally get rid of all the sweat and dirt off you. Then suddenly, a hand grabs your wrist and pulls you into a dark room before you could even react.

The mystery guy pins you onto the wall and wraps his arms around you, you tried to free yourself, but the guy was way too strong.

"Let go of me!" you scream as you try to free yourself.

"Shut up, it's just me. Stop moving around" A familiar voice said.

You freeze, "Zoro?" you ask.

You reach for the light switch with your free hand and flicked the switch on.

The mystery man was no other than.... Zoro. You let out a sigh of relief as you realised your safe.

"You scared me"

" You're easily scared" he grumbles.

"Why did you have to do that? You came out of nowhere!" you say as you hug him back.

"I missed you" he admitted quietly.

He buried his face at the crook of your neck and hugged you tighter.

You chuckled, amused at what you're seeing and hearing right now. Your past self would now imagine this is how the infamous Roronoa Zoro acting like this. "Aww really? You missed me? I missed you too baby" you tease.

His face turned bright pink at your teasing. "Shut up" he muttered, tightening his hold on you.

"I never knew you could be like this.... All clingy and a blushing mess" you say as you run your fingers through his hair.

He lets out a sigh of relief as he held you close. "Just shut up and pamper me like you normally do. You didn't even pay attention to me or talk to me at all" he grumbled.

"I didn't know you liked being pampered, you never showed it or asked" You explained.

"Well, I am now, aren't I?" he argued.

You smiled "Alright then, I'll shower later and spend time with you first"

You two eventually ended up sleeping together in the bed, tangled up together.

You wake up in the middle of the night, waking up because of a nightmare from your past.

You wrap the blanket around you tighter, seeking comfort some way, but it didn't really do anything.

After a short while, you realised you were not falling asleep anytime soon.

You stand up and grab your blanket, wrapping it around you.

You open the door, and immediately felt the cold breeze of the air. Stepping outside, making your way towards the balcony.

The moment felt peaceful, cold breeze of air hit your face. The wind blowing your hair all over the place, and the sound of the waves splashing against the ship.

You couldn't help but have a small smile on your face, the peaceful moment helping you forget your nightmares.

"You're blocking the view" a gruff familiar voice said.

You turned around and saw Roronoa Zoro, sitting down on a bench while leaning against the pole behind him. His hands behind his head and his legs crossed on the bench.

You felt your face get red as you realised who it is.

"Huh? Zoro? When did you get here?" you felt your heart pound and get nervous all of the sudden.

Lately, it's been happening everytime you're around him and you don't know why?

Your heart beats faster, your more aware and nervous around him, paying more attention to how you looked and acted around him.

It was a weird feeling that you never experienced before. And it's been messing with your brain for as long as you can remember.

"Before you even got here, you just didn't notice" he scoffed. "What are you doing so up this early?"

"Can't sleep" you hestitated. "Can I stay here with you for a bit?"

"Yea, here" he moved his feet off the bench and moved over a little.

"Thanks" you smile at him before sitting down beside him.

There was a brief of silence for a while, unsure on what to say.

"So uhh... Can't sleep either?" You ask, trying to break the silence.

"I'm on watch" he says. "You usually sleep through anything, what gives?"

"Nightmares" you mumbled.

"Oh-" he turned his head to look at you, hestitating a bit. "Well uhhh, wanna talk about it?" He hesitates. "I mean... I'm not the best person for comfort but I could try... I-uhm yea"

"Huh? What?" You look at him, trying to see if you heard that right.

He grumbled and looked the other way, and for a second you thought you saw his cheeks go red. "You heard me" he mumbled.

"Uhm, it's boring" you put your wrapped blanket over your head. Trying to hide your blushing face and being worried about how you look right now.

"I don't mind, and it's obviously bothering you since your not your usual self" he looks back at you again.

Hearing his words made your heart want to jump out of your chest for some unknown reason.

"Well... It's my past" you paused. "My nightmare" you confessed.

He nodded, as if signalling you that he's listening and for you to continue.

"My parents didn't want me" your voice lowering slightly.

"We were poor. Really poor. And I was just... Another problem to them"You let out a small, shaky breath.

"No matter what I did, it was never right" your gripped tightened on the blanket. "They'd get angry over nothing, even if I breathed too loud I'd get in trouble. And I thought, if I tried harder, they'll finally look at me like I mattered"

A pause"But they never did"

The words felt heavier the moment you say it out loud.

"When I was 10...they sold me" You look straight ahead, looking bothered, like your living in it again.

"I didn't understand what was happening. I thought maybe... I didn't try hard enough, or maybe they just didn't want me anymore" you laugh a little.

"I kept hoping they'd come back" Your fingers tremble slightly under the blanket.

"They never did" The wind blew into your face, the tears in your eyes forming.

"The people I was sold off to... " you hesitate. "They were even worse" You shake your head faintly, trying to push the memories away.

"I wasn't a person to them... Just something to use" your voice drops. "Every day felt the same, by that time, I stopped hoping things could change"

Silence again, but it was heavier this time. "I spent the last 4 years there, until one day, pirates attacked"

Your gaze lowered to your hands. "It was hell... Loud... Messy... People screaming for help that never came" you exhale slowly.

"I thought I was gonna die" Another pause."But I didn't" Your voice softens.

"I just ended up somewhere else. With someone else" your lips press together. "3 more years of the same exact thing"

"By then, I kinda stopped thinking about the future" you shrugged. "Felt like... No matter what happened, it's all gonna end up the same anyway"

A faint smile forms on your lips.

"Until you guys showed up and proved me wrong" Your shoulder relaxes a little bit.

"You already know the rest" You glance down, fidgeting with the edge of the blanket again.

“So yeah” A small pause.

“That’s it.” Zoro was speechless, he had never expected anything like that to happen to you.

He knew about the pirates part, but he never knew about before that.

It made him wonder how you survived all that but still be one of the most positive and energetic he knew.

"Zoro?" you call out to him. He came back to his senses. "I-uhh... I just.. Never expected that" his voice lowered.

You chuckle. "Yea?"

Still in disbelief, he nods his head. Another wave of silence crashed into you two.

"Look... " he hesitates. "I'm not good with comforting people but... " his face reddened each time a word comes out of his mouth.

"One thing I can guarantee is that if they, or anyone tries something on you... I'll be here to protect you" his voice falters. "Anyone who even thinks of harming you, I'll slice them to bits"

You couldn't believe your ears right now. You could feel your face heat up and your heart racing faster.

"Well I uhh- not just me, but I know the whole crew would do the same for you" he adds quickly.

He turns to look back at the sea, feeling too embarrassed to look at you.

You couldn't help but laugh a little, a big smile forming on your face. "I'd like that"

"You know, your not so bad at this comfort thing. I feel better now, thank you" you smile at him.

He looks at you again a felt his heart skip a bit seeing your smile. The familiar feeling he get around you, deepening.

Why was this happening to him every time he sees you smile or just exist in general?

He trips over his own words, struggling to find the words to say. "I uhh, it's whatever"

You stood up, tugging the blanket closer to you. "I'm gonna try and get some sleep now. I'll see you later"

He grumbled. "Yea yea I'll see you later"

You walk back to your room, your heart feeling lighter than it was earlier.

You always got that feeling when your around him, but you couldn't put a finger on it.

But now, you think you know what it is.

You came across the topic when Robin gave you some books that she already finished.

You felt the same way the characters in the book did. Your heart racing, the way you couldn't take your eyes off him, worrying about how you look and act.

It all added up into the feeling you've been trying so hard to not admit.

A feeling you kept trying so hard not to admit.

You knew what it was.

You just didn’t want to admit it.

You were inlove.

And that realisation scared you more than you wanted to admit.

.

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