With Sanji cooking, he's somewhat distracted. And Lacie isn't observant enough at the moment to notice the towel on the floor that she slips, falls forward and crashes into Sanji's back. Her voice is muffled when she apologizes, but it's the first time they come into physical contact, and she gently places a hand against his back as if it's a barrier to protect their hearts. Her voice, softer this time around, she whispers, "Sorry, Sanji-san..."
†â @magiclace
The force of the bump was sudden and unexpected, but it wasnât so extreme a collision that he tossed what he was cooking. A little flick of his wrist, and he managed to keep most of what lay in the pan from spilling over the edge. Accidents were bound to happen, and he could never bring himself to harshly scold a ladyâ especially one as charming and adorable as Lacie.
He made to turn and tell her that it was alright, that there was no harm done. That, in fact, he was glad she had bumped into him. This was the closest they had ever been, and he would be lying if he said it wasnât thrilling. His heart raced and his cheeks bloomed with color, but the feelings withered away in a quick, cold instant. And the worst part was that he didnât know why.
âItâs fine. . .â
He stood there, steam and savory aromas curling up from the pan. He turned the heat low and set his wooden spoon aside. Her hand was pressed firmly to his back, but it didnât feel right having it there. Turning and embracing her was an idea that crossed his mind, but he refrained despite his heart screaming at him to do it.
Rather than frighten her, he reached back. He eased her arms around, took her hands into his. They were pulled into a loop around his waist, an odd hug from behind. He knew her collapsing into his back was merely an accident, but he couldnât quite help the strange sensation that he wanted ( needed ) to be held by her.
Sanji would, of course, deflect the down-trodden mood with slight humor and a boyish smile over his shoulder. The unanticipated pain deep in his heart was still felt, but he would do everything in his power to ignore it. âIf you wanted a hug, all you had to do was ask~â













