first years + Silver x reader, in where the reader is sleeping over on their room without their housewarden knowing and have to hide em (bonus points if the housewarden gets jealous plsss)
FIRST YEARS + SILVER X READER
Where you hide when the housewarden almost catches you in his room
I'm sorry but I couldn't do anything about the housewarden's jealousy, hope u like it anyways!
You really should’ve said no.
Should’ve gone back to Ramshackle like a responsible prefect. Should’ve listened to Grim’s grumbling and gone to bed at a normal hour.
Haha no.
You let Ace smirk at you with that shit eating grin, throw his arm over your shoulder, and mutter “C’mon, just for tonight. I’ll make it fun~”
Now you’re under Ace's bed.
Like. Literally under. With your knees cramped up to your chest and your nose pressed against a suspicious sock, and Ace is sitting up top, fake-snoring so loud you’re gonna scream.
Riddle’s voice floats in from the hallway. “Lights off, Ace. And if I catch you playing games at this hour again—”
Ace cuts him off, all chipper: “No games, housewarden! Just sleeping like a good little rosebud~”
You nearly wheeze. This clown.
There’s a long silence. Then, finally, the sound of retreating footsteps. You hear Deuce mutter, “You’re gonna get us all killed,” and Ace grins.
Once the coast is clear, Ace throws his blanket off and hops down to crouch beside you.
“Hey, babe,” he whispers. “Still alive down there?”
You swat at his arm. “I’m gonna kill you.”“I love when you talk dirty.”“ACE.”
He laughs and pulls you out from under the bed. And honestly? You’re pissed, you’re disheveled, but the way he beams at you when you’re safe in his bed again, curled up against his side?
…You’d do it all over again.
So listen.
This was your idea.
Epel’s whole room smells like apple shampoo and you thought hey, a little snuggle time with my farm boy bf wouldn’t hurt anyone!
Wrong.
Because Vil just so happened to come back early from his late-night spa treatment and you two were in the middle of a cuddle so aggressive it could be labeled a wrestling match. You rolled on top of each other, grabbed each other's wrists, played to see who could give the most kisses while you put your hands on each other's faces, laughing, and tangled up.
"GET IN THE CLOSET," Epel whispers, scrambling to throw a blanket over the scene of the crime.
"But—!""THE. CLOSET."
You slam the door shut just as Vil glides in, expression sharp.
“Epel. What is this? Your bed looks like it’s been ravaged by a particularly vicious boar.”
“Heheh. I toss and turn a lot?”
Vil’s eyes narrow.
He begins straightening Epel’s bed, tutting at the state of it, one step away from opening the closet.
You’re inside holding your breath and gripping Epel’s hoodie. Through the crack in the door, you can see Vil’s manicured fingers reaching for the handle.
Death is nigh. Life flashes before your eyes.
But then—
“WAIT!” Epel blurts out. “Don’t open that!”
Vil pauses. Slowly turns.
“…Why not?”
“Because,” Epel says, brain lagging, “I have Neige LeBlanche posters that Rook gave me there."
Silence.
“Excuse me?”“He said he wanted me to observe the real beauty and he had so many posters...’”
“…”
Vil pinches the bridge of his nose, mutters something about freakish weirdos and leaves.
You tumble out five seconds later, gasping. Epel helps you up looking proud and horrified at the same time.
“That was the worst thing I’ve ever said.”
“You’re so messed up.”
You both cackle like lunatics into the night.
Silver is… a problem.
Not because he doesn’t want you there. No, Silver loves having you around. It’s just—
He forgot. Literally.
You’re waking up in his bed, tangled in the sheets, and Silver blinks awake next to you looking around like he just respawned.
“Yuu...?” he mumbles, voice still sleepy. “Did we… did I…”“You invited me over last night.”
“I did?”
“You said ‘the moon’s lonely tonight. Come warm me up.’ It was poetic and kinda hot.”
“Oh. I do remember that.”
He curls back into you like a sleepy kitten, arms around your waist. You start dozing off again—until a very distinctive knock rattles the door.
Lilia.
"Oh no. I forgot he’s on patrol.”
You scramble to hide under the covers while Silver stumbles to the door. Lilia peeks inside smile already too knowing.
“Morning, my little dreamer. Sleep well?”
“Yeah.”
“Alone?”
“...Yes.”
Lilia’s eyes flick to the suspiciously lumpy bed. He says nothing. He simply nods.
“Tell Yuu under the sheets I said hi,” he says, and disappears into the hallway.
Silver turns to you under the blankets.
“I’m never going to survive him.”
You peek out and kiss his nose. “He ships us.”“I know. That’s what scares me.”
You both fall back into the bed again, resigned to your fate.
Jack is the worst at sneaking you in.
He’s too tall and too honest, and WAY too nervous. He acts guilty before you even do anything.
Tonight’s no different.
You’re in his room, cozy in his oversized hoodie (it’s so soft help), both of you curled up together on the floor with a blanket and your legs tangled. The dorm is mostly asleep, and Jack is doing his best to stay calm.
And then… the doorknob rattles.
Jack’s ears go straight up. He stands like he’s been electrocuted, grabs the blanket, and throws it over your head like that’s going to make you disappear.
“Jack. Why’s your door locked?”
“Just—! Working out!”
“…At midnight?”
“UH. YEAH.”
You nearly choke trying not to laugh under the blanket. You feel Jack’s foot nudge you, a silent pls don’t expose me tap.
Leona finally walks away, yawning and muttering something about hormonal teenagers and their dumb secrets.
Once he’s gone, Jack collapses beside you, covering his face with both hands.
“I hate lying. I’m gonna get grey fur from this.”
You kiss his cheek. “You’re lucky you’re cute.”“You’re lucky I love you.”
“Aw~ you love me?”
“Shut up.”
You fall asleep that night wrapped in a burrito, safe in his arms, and even if he complains the next morning, the way he keeps sneaking glances at you says he’d risk it again in a heartbeat.
Now Sebek tries to be stealthy.
Tries really hard. Puts up his walls and declares he will not succumb to such foolish disobedience! But he already has. Because you’re in his room.
Curled up in his bed. Wearing his oversized shirt.
It’s a disaster.
It’s wonderful.
Malleus has NO IDEA.
Which, honestly? Makes Sebek more anxious than fighting blindfolded.
You, meanwhile, are delighted.
“Babe. Youre nervous.”
“THAT IS A LIE.”
“Your voice is louder than-.”
“THEN PERHAPS YOU SHOULD—"
You clamp a hand over his mouth and hiss, “Shhh!”
Cue dramatic pacing. Cue Sebek swearing on his honor that if the Young Master walks in, you are to jump out the window and never look back.
Of course that’s when the knock comes.
“Sebek. I sensed unrest. Is everything alright?”
“YOUNG MASTER! I—ALL IS WELL. DO NOT WORRY YOUR—YOUR HEAD.”
You literally stuffing your face into the pillows to keep from laughing
Malleus, meanwhile, raises an eyebrow outside the door. He can feel another presence. One that makes Sebek’s aura thrum with warmth.
He’s quiet. Then speaks.
“…Be careful, Sebek.”
And walks away.
Sebek freezes.
You peek up at him. “He knows, doesn’t he.”“I AM DOOMED, HUMAN.”
You snort and wrap your arms around him anyway.
Doomed or not this is your favorite place to be.
So Deuce was totally against this at first.
“Yuu, what if we get caught?” he’d whispered sweating. “I’m still on thin ice with Riddle! I can’t get another demerit—I’ll die.”
And like. Yeah. Fair.
But also? You pouted. You tugged on his sleeve. You gave him the eyes.
What was he supposed to do, say no??
So here you are, tucked into Deuce’s bed, while he lies on top of the blanket next to you, eyes darting to the door every time the floor creaks.
And of course. OF COURSE.
Riddle knocks.
“Spade. I’m conducting a room inspection.”
Your souls leave your bodies.
Deuce leaps up, whisper-yelling “HIDE!” and you barely dive into the tiny closet before the door opens. You nearly trip over his boots, clutching his uniform jacket, heart hammering so loud you’re sure Riddle can hear it.
Meanwhile, Deuce is doing his best impression: standing at attention, sweating bullets, and praying Riddle doesn’t notice the two cups on his nightstand.
“Why are there two cups?” “Hydration, sir. I get double-thirsty.”
Riddle suspiciously squint. You choke silently on a laugh
Miraculously Riddle moves on. After what feels like three years and a full background check he finally leaves.
Deuce sprints to the closet, throws the door open, and you fall into his arms like a ragdoll.
“I hate this,” he wheezes. “I hate how much I love this.”“So… tomorrow night too?”
“ABSOLUTELY NOT.” (you’ll be back tomorrow night.)
hii!! could i request an epel x reader oneshot where everyone finds out epel has had a secret girlfriend back home this whole time?? maybe ace teasing him and epel getting so ragebaited it slips out 🥹 also what font did u use for ur masterlist banner?? it's sooo cute!!
SECRET'S OUT! ─── ⟢ e. felmier
𑣲⋆ summary: in which epel never saw the point in telling anyone about the girl waiting for him back home… until ace starts running his mouth.
pairings: epel felmier x reader
tags / warnings: established relationship , childhood sweethearts , long-distance relationship , secret girlfriend , ace is a professional ragebaiter , pet names (applejack for epel, apple of my eye for reader) , reader has a horse named honeycrisp , reader plays guitar , ace and epel are in the same class (so diverts from canon) , potential two-shot (if yall like this enough)
word count: 4853 words
sardine's notes: epel having a sweetheart waiting for him in harveston is everything to me. ♡ the font i use is from a website called cooltext.com and the font is named OZONE!! most of the fonts i use will either be from cooltext, dafonts, or plain old canva! please dont be afraid to ask me where i get my visuals or how i create them, i love sharing my resources and seeing other people using them!!
── .ಇ part one!! , part two (tbd)
The problem with having a secret girlfriend at Night Raven College was that Epel Felmier had very few people to tell him when he was being an idiot. Back home in Harveston, everyone already knew about the two of you; his grandparents knew, your family knew, half the elderly residents of the village knew, and even the people who pretended not to pay attention somehow knew that the Felmier boy was hopelessly sweet on the girl who brought her family's horse over to help with the apple harvest. Here at NRC, however, Epel had managed to keep the entire thing under wraps for nearly six months, mostly because there simply hadn't been any reason to mention it. NRC was an all-boys school, so nobody was constantly asking whether he was interested in some girl from class, and Epel certainly wasn't going to volunteer information about his personal life when nobody had asked. As far as he was concerned, the fact that he had a sweetheart waiting for him in a country thousands of miles away was nobody's business but his own.
There was another reason Epel had kept quiet, though he would rather chew through a crate of rotten apples than admit it out loud: Vil Schoenheit. Epel had spent enough time around his Housewarden to know exactly how seriously Vil took appearances, and some small, irrational part of him worried that Vil would decide having a sweetheart back home didn't fit the image he wanted for Pomefiore's students. What if Vil insisted he needed to maintain some sort of innocent, available bachelor image and told him to break things off with you? Epel knew, deep down, that Vil wasn't nearly that heartless, but knowing that didn't stop the thought from bothering him, so he'd decided it was safer to keep his relationship to himself and avoid giving Vil any reason to comment on it.
Unfortunately, Epel had forgotten to account for Ace Trappola's favorite hobby: making Epel mad just because he could. The two of them had discovered very early on that Epel's temper and Ace's inability to leave well enough alone were a particularly dangerous combination, and Ace had quickly realized that he could get an endless amount of entertainment by poking at Epel until he snapped. Epel knew exactly what Ace was doing every single time, which somehow made it even worse, because refusing to react meant admitting Ace had gotten the better of him, while reacting meant giving Ace exactly what he wanted. It was a battle Epel had been losing for six months, and apparently, today was going to be no different.
The dining hall was crowded with students when the four first-years settled around their usual table, the room full of clattering dishes, overlapping conversations, and the constant scrape of chairs being dragged across the floor. Epel had barely gotten halfway through his lunch when Ace, who had apparently exhausted every other possible source of entertainment, leaned his elbow against the table and looked at him with the particular expression Epel had learned to fear. It was a lazy little grin, accompanied by narrowed eyes and the unmistakable sparkle of someone who had just thought of something annoying to say, and Epel immediately knew that whatever came next was going to irritate him. “Y'know, Epel,” Ace began, resting his cheek against his palm as though he were genuinely contemplating a serious problem, “I've been thinking about your future, and honestly? I'm worried.”
Epel didn't even look up from his food. “Don't.”
Ace's grin widened. “I haven't even said anything yet.”
“Don't need ya to.”
Deuce snorted quietly into his drink, while Jack glanced between them with the resigned expression of someone who had already accepted that he was about to witness an argument he'd heard some variation of at least a dozen times. Ace, meanwhile, looked delighted. He leaned forward over the table, lowering his voice into a conspiratorial tone as though he were about to reveal some great secret about Epel's future. “I'm just saying, you're gonna have a hard time finding a girlfriend someday.”
Epel finally looked up from his lunch, his brows drawing together as he slowly realized where Ace was going with this. “And why's that?” he asked, already sounding suspicious, and Ace merely shrugged with an exaggerated air of innocence as he leaned back in his chair. “Because no girl wants a boyfriend who's prettier than she is,” he replied matter-of-factly, as though he'd just delivered some undeniable piece of wisdom, and Epel stared at him across the table in stunned silence while Deuce's lips twitched and Jack's ears flicked once at the sheer audacity of the statement.
Epel slowly put his fork down, the metal making a quiet clink against his plate as his expression hardened. “What'd you just say?” he asked, his voice dropping into that deceptively calm tone Ace had learned meant he was about three seconds away from losing his temper, but Ace immediately recognized the opening and took it without hesitation. “You heard me,” he said, leaning forward with a grin that was already threatening to become unbearable. “You're pretty. Like, really pretty. You've got the purple hair, the baby face, the eyelashes—”
“I ain't got a baby face,” Epel cut in sharply, his nose scrunching as he visibly bristled at the description. Ace's grin widened at once, delighted that he'd found another button to push, and he waved one hand dismissively. “You so have a baby face,” he insisted, stretching the words out just enough to make them more irritating. Epel's eyebrow twitched, his fingers tightening around the edge of the table as he fixed Ace with a murderous stare. “Trappola.”
“What?” Ace asked, looking entirely too pleased with himself as he propped his chin in his palm. “I'm complimenting you.” Epel's expression twisted in disbelief, and he gave a short, humorless scoff as he shook his head. “That's not a compliment,” he muttered, but Ace only shrugged and continued, “Sure it is. Plenty of girls would kill to look like you.” Epel's shoulders stiffened immediately, his cheeks beginning to flush with irritation. “I don't wanna look like a girl!”
“I know, I know,” Ace said, waving a hand dismissively as he fought down a laugh, his shoulders already beginning to shake from the effort. “That's the problem. You're gonna have to find a girl who's okay with her boyfriend being prettier than her.” Epel's fingers curled tightly around the table's edge, his knuckles beginning to pale as he leaned forward. “I ain't gonna have trouble finding a girlfriend,” he shot back, his accent becoming a little thicker with his irritation. Ace's eyes lit up at the challenge, and he immediately leaned closer. “Oh?” he prompted, his grin turning mischievous. “Yeah,” Epel answered firmly, crossing his arms. “Really?” Ace pressed, eyebrows raised. “Yeah,” Epel repeated, though his voice had lost some of its confidence under the scrutiny.
Ace tilted his head, studying Epel with an infuriatingly thoughtful expression before casually asking, “Name one girl who'd date you.” Epel's mouth opened on instinct, but no answer came, and the brief silence that followed was enough for Ace to slowly lean back with an enormous grin spreading across his face. “Exactly,” he said triumphantly, pointing at Epel as though he'd just won an argument in court. Epel's face burned. “I don't need to name anybody!” he snapped, but Ace immediately fired back, “Because you can't.” Epel's eyes narrowed. “I can.” Ace's grin only widened. “Then do it.” Epel glared at him for several long seconds before finally grumbling, “Shut up.”
Ace leaned back in his chair, looking tremendously pleased with himself as he folded his arms behind his head. “See? No answer,” he said, rocking his chair back slightly while Epel glowered at him from across the table. “Face it, Epel. You're doomed. You're gonna graduate from NRC, go back to Harveston, and spend the rest of your life staring sadly into an apple orchard because nobody wants to date the prettiest guy in the village.” Epel's jaw clenched so tightly it almost hurt, and he muttered through his teeth, “Will ya quit it?” without taking his eyes off him. Ace merely shrugged, his grin softening into an expression of completely shameless amusement. “I'm just being honest.” Epel scoffed and folded his arms more tightly across his chest. “Yer bein' annoying.” Ace immediately nodded, entirely unbothered. “Those things aren't mutually exclusive.”
Deuce had been doing his absolute best to stay out of the argument, but a tiny laugh escaped him before he could stop it. Epel's head snapped toward him so quickly that Deuce immediately straightened in his seat, his expression becoming painfully innocent. “You think it's funny too?” Epel demanded, his eyes narrowing as he looked between Deuce and Ace. “I didn't say that,” Deuce protested, lifting his hands slightly in surrender, but Epel caught the faint smile still lingering at the corner of his mouth. “You're smirkin'.” Deuce scratched his cheek, glancing briefly toward Ace as though hoping his friend might rescue him, but Ace was far too entertained to intervene. “I—well...” Deuce hesitated, then sighed as he tried to find the least offensive way to phrase his answer. “I mean, Ace did think you were a girl when we first met.”
Epel's expression went completely blank.
For one glorious second, the entire table was silent as Epel processed what Deuce had just reminded him of, and then Ace absolutely lost it. He slapped both hands against the table and bent forward, his shoulders shaking violently as laughter burst out of him. “I DID!” he wheezed, barely able to get the words out between laughs. Epel slowly turned toward him with an expression of such pure disbelief that even Jack looked away to hide the twitch of amusement at the corner of his mouth. Ace wiped at the corner of one eye as he tried and failed to regain his composure. “Oh my gosh, I forgot about that! You should've seen your face, Epel. You looked like you wanted to murder me!”
“I did want to murder you,” Epel replied flatly, his eyes still fixed on Ace as though he were seriously considering finishing the job now. Ace only laughed harder, dropping his forehead onto his folded arms on the table while Deuce muttered something about how he'd really thought Epel was a girl for the first few minutes they'd known each other. Epel groaned and dragged both hands down his face. “I swear, you idiots are gonna drive me insane.”
Jack finally cleared his throat, though the slight twitch at the corner of his mouth made it obvious that he was enjoying this considerably more than he wanted to admit. “If we're being honest,” he said, his tone carefully neutral as he glanced at Epel, “Epel does have a rather feminine appearance.” Epel's head whipped around so fast that his hair shifted across his forehead. “Jack!” he exclaimed, staring at him in betrayal, while Jack immediately lifted both hands defensively. “I'm not insulting you,” he explained, his expression remaining composed despite the faint amusement in his eyes. “I'm only saying that I understand where Ace got the wrong impression.”
“You're supposed to be on my side!” Epel protested, throwing one hand toward Jack as though appealing to him for basic human decency. Jack blinked once before answering, “I am.” Epel's eyes narrowed. “You sure ain't actin' like it!” he shot back, and Ace immediately started laughing again at the sight of Epel turning on Jack as well. The entire thing had become exactly the sort of ridiculous argument Ace lived for: Epel was furious, everyone else was trying not to laugh, and Epel somehow kept making himself angrier every time he attempted to defend his dignity.
Ace eventually managed to sit upright again, though his shoulders were still shaking from laughter. He rested his elbow on the table and looked at Epel with a grin that practically screamed trouble. “See? Even Jack agrees.” He paused deliberately, watching Epel's eye twitch before adding, “And let's be honest, Epel, do you even know any girls who'd like a guy like you?” Epel's head snapped toward him, his temper flaring so quickly that there wasn't even time for him to think about the answer before it came flying out of his mouth.
“Yes!”
The word rang across the table so sharply that all three boys immediately fell silent.
Epel froze.
His own voice seemed to echo in his ears, and his stomach dropped as he realized exactly what he'd just admitted. Ace's grin disappeared for a moment, replaced by genuine surprise as his eyebrows lifted and he slowly leaned forward. “...What?” he asked, his voice suddenly much quieter.
Epel's face was already heating, but his temper had reached the point where embarrassment was no longer strong enough to stop him. He leaned across the table, his palms pressing against the wood as he glared directly at Ace. “I said yes. You don't know what yer talkin' about, so quit actin' like ya do. I ain't gotta worry about findin' somebody because I already got somebody, alright?! I'm already spoken for, and I have been for years, so maybe quit runnin' yer mouth about things you don't know nothin' about!”
Silence fell over the table.
Epel's chest rose and fell as he stared at Ace, his face burning with the sudden realization that he had just said far, far more than he intended. Ace blinked at him, his mouth slightly open, while Deuce stared as though someone had just overturned the entire table without touching it. Jack's eyebrows had lifted, and even he seemed genuinely surprised. Epel slowly realized that there was absolutely no way he could take that back.
Ace's voice came out unusually quiet. “...You have a girlfriend?”
Epel swallowed, then leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms as though he hadn't just detonated a bomb in the middle of lunch. “Yeah.”
Deuce stared at Epel, his fork hovering above his plate. “For real?” he asked, eyebrows raised, and Epel gave a stiff nod. “Yeah.” Deuce blinked, still processing it. “How long?” Epel hesitated, his ears beginning to turn pink, and Ace immediately narrowed his eyes. “Or are you lying?”
“Three years,” Epel finally muttered, and Ace's jaw dropped while Deuce nearly dropped his fork and Jack's ears perked. “THREE YEARS?!” Ace shouted, his voice carrying across the dining hall as several nearby students turned to look. Epel immediately winced and shoved a hand against Ace's forehead when he leaned across the table. “You've had a girlfriend for three years?!”
“Get your face outta mine!” Epel snapped, pushing him back into his seat, but Ace barely gave him a moment to breathe. “How did you hide this?” he demanded, looking genuinely scandalized. “By not tellin' ya!” Epel shot back, folding his arms as Ace immediately followed with, “Why didn't you tell us?” Epel's cheeks burned. “Because I didn't wanna!”
Ace grabbed his shoulders and shook him once before Epel shoved him away. “Who is she?” he demanded, practically vibrating with curiosity, while Epel glared at him. “Why do ya care?” Ace threw his hands up. “Because this is the biggest thing I've ever learned about you!” Epel rolled his eyes. “That's a you problem!”
Deuce was still trying to process everything when he leaned forward. “Wait, so you're actually serious? You have a girlfriend back in Harveston?” Epel gave him an exasperated look. “Yeah.” Jack studied him for a moment before asking, “Does your family know?” Epel blinked. “Course they do!”
Ace pointed accusingly at him. “And you've just been casually keeping this from all of us for six months?” Epel's ears turned bright red as he looked away. “It weren't important.” Ace stared at him like he'd lost his mind. “You have a three-year relationship and you thought that wasn't important?!”
“It ain't anybody else's business!” Epel snapped, finally losing his patience again. Ace narrowed his eyes before pointing at him with a triumphant grin. “That is the most suspicious thing you've ever said! You're so full of it!” Epel opened his mouth to argue, but Ace was already leaning forward, clearly nowhere near finished interrogating him.
Epel muttered something under his breath, reached into his uniform pocket, and pulled out his wallet. Ace's eyes immediately followed the movement. “What's that?” he asked, leaning closer again, and Epel shot him an annoyed look before flipping the wallet open. Tucked safely behind one of the clear card slots was a small Polaroid, slightly worn around the edges from being taken in and out over the past several months.
“She's real,” Epel grumbled. “So quit lookin' at me like I'm makin' 'er up!”
He pulled the photograph free and placed it on the table.
The three boys stared.
The picture showed Epel and you standing together back in Harveston, the familiar greenery of the Felmier orchards blurred softly behind you. You had one arm around him and were leaning in to kiss his cheek, while Epel was caught in the middle of attempting to look deeply annoyed by the entire thing; his eyebrows were drawn together, his lips pressed into a stubborn line, and yet the pink creeping across his cheeks ruined the performance completely. A horse's head was barely visible in the background, and there was something unmistakably warm and happy about the photograph that made it immediately obvious how long the two of you had known one another.
Ace picked up the Polaroid with both hands, his eyes widening as he stared at it. “No way.” Epel immediately snatched it back, clutching it protectively. “Don't bend it!” he snapped, and Ace threw his hands up. “I wasn't gonna!”
“You're holdin' it like you're about to crease it!” Epel complained, carefully checking the corners. Ace rolled his eyes. “I was looking!” Epel narrowed his eyes. “Well, look with your eyes and not your grubby hands!” Ace ignored the insult, staring at him in disbelief. “You weren't kidding.”
“I told ya.” Epel tucked the photograph between his fingers while Ace shook his head. “You actually have a girlfriend.” Epel gave him an exasperated look. “I just said that!” Ace glanced back at the picture, then suddenly smiled. “And she's pretty.”
Epel's expression softened before he could stop it. “Yeah.” Deuce leaned over to look at the photograph again, smiling slightly. “You look really happy.” Epel's thumb brushed over the edge of the Polaroid. “I was.”
Ace suddenly pointed at the picture. “Wait, why are you making that face?” Epel frowned. “Because she wouldn't stop botherin' me about takin' a picture.” Ace grinned. “Looks like you were enjoying it.” Epel immediately looked away. “I wasn't.” Ace's grin widened. “You're blushing.” Epel's ears turned red. “I was not.”
“You totally were!” Epel shoved the photograph back into his wallet and snapped it shut. “We're done talkin' about this!” Ace leaned back with a victorious grin. “Oh, we're absolutely not done talking about this.”
Professor Trein's history of magic lecture was not nearly as interesting as remembering you.
Epel sat toward the back of the classroom, chin resting against his palm as Professor Trein's steady voice droned on about some ancient magical conflict that had happened centuries ago. The room was warm, the lights were dim enough to make his eyelids heavy, and the scratch of quills across parchment created a strangely soothing rhythm around him. He tried to pay attention. He genuinely did. Unfortunately, his mind had already wandered back to Harveston.
He remembered the first time his grandmother caught him watching you from across the orchard.
Epel had been pretending to work.
He'd been standing near a cart, supposedly sorting apples, but his attention had been fixed entirely on you. You were several rows away, helping with the harvest, your hands moving quickly as you worked while the late afternoon sunlight caught in your hair. Epel had been so absorbed that he didn't notice his grandmother approaching until she spoke beside him.
“You like that girl,” his grandmother remarked casually, and Epel nearly dropped the apple in his hand. “I do not,” he immediately insisted, his face already warming as she gave him a knowing smile. “Oh, of course not,” she hummed, clearly unconvinced. Epel frowned. “I don't!”
“Then why've you been starin' at her for the last ten minutes?” she asked, glancing toward him, and Epel immediately looked away from you across the orchard. “I wasn't starin'.” His grandmother raised an eyebrow. “You've barely blinked.” Epel's face grew hotter as he fumbled with the apple in his hands. “I was watchin' what she was doin'.”
“Mm-hm.” Epel looked at her, already knowing she didn't believe him. “I'm serious!” His grandmother simply smiled and returned to her work. “Of course you are.” Epel huffed and turned back toward the orchard, though he couldn't stop himself from sneaking another glance in your direction.
He remembered riding through town with you on Honeycrisp.
Honeycrisp was a magnificent horse, sturdy and patient, with a temperament that made him perfectly suited for carrying two teenagers through the quiet roads of Harveston. You would sit comfortably in the saddle while Epel rode behind you, his arms occasionally braced around your waist whenever the road became uneven. The village elders sitting on their porches always seemed to notice the two of you passing, and they had absolutely no problem making comments.
“Look at those lovebirds!” one of the elderly men called from his porch as you and Epel rode past, and Epel immediately hid his face against your shoulder. “Keep goin',” he muttered, mortified, while you laughed and patted his hand around your waist. “They're just teasing.” Epel sighed. “I know.”
You glanced back at him and caught the pink on his cheeks. “You're blushing.” Epel immediately lifted his head. “I'm not.” You raised an eyebrow. “You are.” He looked desperately toward the road for an excuse. “It's the sun.” You glanced up at the cloudy sky. “We're in the shade.” Epel's face went even redder. “Then it's hot.”
You laughed, leaning back against him as Honeycrisp continued down the road. “You're impossible.” Epel muttered against your shoulder, though you could hear the smile in his voice. “I learned from you.”
The old men would laugh from their porches, and Epel would bury his face even further against your shoulder while you struggled not to laugh. He had always hated being teased, but he secretly loved the familiarity of it. Everyone in Harveston knew you two. Everyone had watched you grow up together. There was something comforting about being surrounded by people who had known the two of you since you were children.
He remembered the apple carving dates even more fondly.
Whenever there were blemished apples that wouldn't sell, Epel would carefully carve them into intricate little designs instead of letting them go to waste. You'd sit beside him beneath the shade of a grand old apple tree, your guitar balanced across your lap while he worked with a small carving knife. The scent of fresh apples surrounded you, sweet and crisp beneath the rustling leaves, and the occasional note from your guitar would drift through the orchard whenever you paused to play.
Epel could carve practically anything: little animals, flowers, intricate patterns, even tiny figures. He'd sit beneath the old apple tree with his brows furrowed in concentration, carefully working his knife through blemished apples while your guitar provided a gentle soundtrack beside him.
You had also developed a habit of stealing the scraps. Epel eventually caught you reaching for another piece of apple peel and frowned. “You're eatin' the peel again?” You popped it into your mouth without shame. “It's the best part.” Epel stared at you. “Yer so weird.”
“You're the one carving apples for fun,” you pointed out, and Epel returned his attention to his work. “That's different.” You tilted your head. “How?” He gave you a smug little smile. “Because I'm good at it.” You laughed and reached for another piece of peel, and Epel pretended to be annoyed.
Eventually, he simply started setting the best pieces aside for you without saying anything. Whenever you reached over, there would be a particularly nice curl of peel waiting at the edge of his pile. He never admitted he'd been saving them for you, and you never needed him to.
“Mr. Felmier.” Professor Trein's voice cut through the classroom, and Epel's eyes snapped open. He straightened so quickly that his chair creaked, only to find Trein standing beside his desk with a stern expression. “...Yes, sir?” Epel asked, blinking away the last traces of sleep.
Trein smoothed his jabot. “If you find the history of magic so fascinating that you are willing to fall asleep during my lecture, perhaps you would like to explain the significance of the event I have just described.” Epel stared blankly at him for a moment before glancing helplessly toward the board. “I—uh...” Several seats away, Jack covered his mouth to hide a laugh, earning an immediate murderous glare from Epel.
Trein sighed. “Pay attention.” Epel immediately nodded and lowered his gaze to his notes. “Yes, sir.” He sank back into his chair, face burning, only to glance across the classroom and find Ace silently mouthing one word at him with an obnoxious grin: girlfriend.
Epel's eye twitched as he clenched his fist beneath the desk. He turned back toward his textbook and tried to focus on the lecture, but one thought remained firmly lodged in his mind. I'm gonna kill him after class.
That evening, after classes and dinner, Epel returned to his room and dropped his schoolbag beside his desk with a tired sigh. He didn't even bother changing out of his uniform before sitting heavily on his bed and pulling out his phone, already reaching for your contact without a second thought. The moment you answered, his tired expression softened, and he immediately launched into a detailed complaint about his day, grumbling about Professor Trein's lecture, Ace's relentless teasing, and everything else that had managed to irritate him since breakfast.
You listened patiently through his entire rant, occasionally laughing or offering a sympathetic hum whenever his complaints became particularly dramatic. Once he'd finally exhausted himself, Epel flopped backward against his pillows and asked about your day, listening quietly as you told him about everything you'd been doing back in Harveston. The familiar sound of your voice through the phone made the room feel considerably less lonely, and for a little while, the miles of ocean between Sage's Island and home didn't seem quite so enormous.
Eventually, there was a brief lull in the conversation, and Epel already knew what was coming when he heard the amused little shift in your voice. “So, my rugged applejack,” you began, and Epel rolled his eyes fondly as he stared up at the ceiling. “Are you still hopelessly in love with me? Or has bein' at Night Raven introduced you to pretty pavement princesses?” His entire face immediately heated, and he pushed himself upright, glancing around his empty room despite knowing perfectly well that you couldn't see him. “C-course I am,” he stammered, rubbing the back of his neck as his accent grew thicker with embarrassment. “Yer the apple of my eye. No city girl could ever compare to you.”
You laughed softly on the other end, clearly pleased with yourself, and Epel couldn't help smiling despite his embarrassment. “That's what I like to hear,” you teased, and he huffed as he settled back against his pillows, pretending to be annoyed while listening to you continue talking about home. Before long, the conversation wandered naturally from the orchard to Honeycrisp, from Honeycrisp to your family, and eventually to the Polaroid tucked safely inside Epel's wallet, where the photograph of the two of you had become one of his most treasured possessions.
Outside his room, the corridor had grown quiet as the evening settled over the dormitory, and Vil happened to pass by Epel's door on his way elsewhere. He slowed when he heard Epel's voice coming from inside, the door having been left slightly ajar in the boy's haste to make his nightly call, though nothing about Vil's expression suggested anything more than mild acknowledgment of the noise. He continued standing there for a moment as Epel's voice carried faintly through the opening, warm and unmistakably affectionate as he spoke to the person on the other end of the call.
“Wish you were here,” Epel murmured, his voice quiet and fond as he looked down at the Polaroid. “Miss ya somethin' awful.” He tucked the photograph safely back into his wallet and continued chatting, completely oblivious to Vil standing just outside his door. Vil listened for another moment before his expression settled into one of quiet curiosity. “Six months,” he murmured to himself as he walked away. “Six months at Night Raven College, and my dear Epel has apparently been keeping something very important from me.” He glanced back once at the half-open door, a faint smile touching his lips. “We'll have to remedy that.”
i was wondering if you’d be willing to write something about deuce (+ anyone else you wanna add!! pls feel free to do that) helping out a fem yuu reader who gets creeped on by nrc dudes? i can only imagine how weird some ppl would act with a girl in an all boys school…
take care and drink water!! <3
My first request is actually something that I feel like isn't talked about alot but would definitely happen! You take care aswell and drink water too!!!
(I added Jack because he's such an underrated character and I love him so much)
Jeepers Creepers
Featuring Deuce Spade and Jack Howl.
TW: Uncomfortable behavior, mentions of stalking, forced restraint (in Jacks part), NPCs being creeps, mentions of past trauma, use of Yuu in place of reader, might be ooc but I try my best to portray the character right🙂↕️.
Genre: Hurt/Comfort but like squiggly?
When Deuce first saw you, a girl, come crashing out of that coffin during the entrance ceremony, his first thought was 'I thought this was an all boys school?' and not 'wow, I feel bad for her.'
However that is definitely what he's started thinking as of late.
When you first told Deuce some of his dormmates were starting to creep on you, he was furious.
Not Ace, Cater or Trey no, some of the... other guys.
Of course, he didn't want to believe it, maybe they were just trying to be friends with you in an awkward guy way?
But when Deuce saw the way some of the guys were looking at you, he felt a strange sense of shame and anger fill his chest.
He knew that look. He had, regrettably, given that look once or twice back then to fit in with his delinquent friends.
Immediately noticing how much you noticed the stares, and how you seemed to be trying to shrink inside yourself, Deuce not so subtly moved his chair closer to yours and threw his dorm jacket over your shoulders.
The look of gratitude you gave him made his heart (and pride) swell, and he smiled when you sat up straighter and spoke a little louder at the table now.
Unfortunately, the jacket along with Deuces glares at anyone who even looked in your direction only worked for so long, and the pastry tray at your table was thinning out quickly.
You got up, under the pretense that you wanted some more macrons, and walked over to the extras table to grab some more.
Unfortunately, that action would spell your doom as one of the guys who had been particularly persistent, slid up next to you and slung his arm around your shoulder, whispering something in your ear that made you flinch.
Deuce saw red.
He stood up so fast the table almost flipped, earning protests from the others seated, and cracked his knuckles, about to march over there and beat that guy into the ground when-
For some reason, he looked back at Ace.
Ace was yelling something at him, but he couldn't hear it, all he could see was Ace, and for some reason that gave him a brilliant idea.
By the time he looked back, you were running to the table with tears in your eyes, telling him and the others that you needed to leave.
He understood, helping you pack your things and walking you to the exit back to the hall of mirrors.
You hugged him tight, thanking him for the support then ran off.
That night, Deuce enacted his evil plan. He didn't find every student who gave you dirty looks and beat them up, no. He didn't start sending out dearth threats to their doors, no.
He did something much, much more terrifying
"Ridd- I mean Housewarden. Today at the unbirthday party, some members of the dorm were making Yuu extremely uncomfortable."
The next morning, you awoke to frantic knocking at your door, and you opened it to find Deuce standing there, looking like he'd just won a Nobel prize.
"Prefect! Come with me, I have something to show you!"
He dragged you back to Heartslabyul, all while ignoring your confused complaints, and dragged you through the mirror. What you saw on the other side was pure gold.
Every guy that had been creeping on you the past few weeks was slaving away at the rose bushes under Riddles less than pleased supervision, and even better?
They were all collared. TWICE. Which you didn't even know was possible.
Out of the corner of your eye, you saw Cater leaning against a tree, livestreaming the entire thing with a smug look on his face, clearly enjoying his day off. As well as Ace, who was also collared but you had the idea that it was for different reasons.
When Riddle saw you, he immediately rushed over and bowed deeply, apologizing for the disgraceful behavior of his dormembers, using words you'd never even heard of before.
You quickly told him to stand up and that it wasn't his fault but he insisted that the offending students would be thoroughly punished.
All in all, you felt extremely out of place, especially considering you were still in your pajamas, but you eventually accepted Riddles apology.
And Deuce had started accommodating for you as well.
He offers to walk behind you in the halls, lends you his jacket when you feel exposed, threatens anyone who looks at you strangely.
I would be insanely sweet if he wasn't getting in trouble for it every 2 days, but oh well.
When you tell him about how, in your world, guys creeping on girls was super common and that you had been stalked by some of the guys in your school before, he got angry on your behalf and vowed to defend you against any more weirdos you might come across here. Like a knight in shining armor.
I'm the end, your NRC experience was made somewhat easier by the future honor student Deuce Spade.
When Leona miraculously allowed you to stay in Savannaclaw after the Leech twins kicked you out of Ramshackle, Jack had thought the dorm would feel like a blessing compared to your old living conditions.
However, he quickly learned that a blessing and a curse are two sides of the same coin.
When you first told Jack that you were feeling certain dorm members were creeping on you, his face did this thing that looked like he was speedrunning all five stages of grief in 10 seconds.
He tried to reassure you by saying they were just not used to seeing a girl in the dorm, and were probably trying to mark their territory by scaring you away.
Jack has come to deeply regret those words.
At first, he just watched, trying to see what in their behavior made you feel this way.
Occasionally, one of the guys would approach you and try to make conversation, and Jack was becoming acutely aware of how they slowly seemed to be testing your personal space.
An arm around your shoulders here, a tail curled around your leg there, he tried to tell himself they were just being friendly, that his dorm members wouldn't stoop so low as forcing themselves onto you.
But he couldn't ignore they way they laughed when you told them to stop.
He would stick around you more to try and ward the guys off and eventually went around to talk to them about personal space and how they needed to respect your "No".
One day, Jack got out of track club early because Deuce was called in by professor Crewel for remedial lessons, and the club let out 10 minutes before usual.
As Jack crossed through the mirror portal, he saw you being crowded by a bunch of his dormates.
One of them had your wrists in a tight grip, hanging you slightly of the ground as another angrily jabbed a finger at your chest.
You were crying.
Jack moved immediately.
He came crashing in like a cannonball and punched the guy locking your wrists. The second you fell to the ground, Jack ushered you away, telling you to run to Leona's room where no one would follow.
He was beyond angry, and he's pretty sure he broke someone's arm, but by the time Leona and Ruggie got back, Jack was the only one not groaning in pain.
Leona raised an eyebrow at him and Jack told him to go to his room and see for himself what happened.
When Leona came back, you were trailing after him, and he took one look at the beaten Savannaclaw boys and snarled
"Get the hell out of my dorm."
You hugged Jack tightly, thanking him for saving you and he awkwardly hugged you back, choosing to ignore they way his tail wagged with relief that you were safe (he's so nonchalant).
The next day, the group of boys were packing their bags to go home.
After this, Jack started hanging around you more, doing very subtle things to help you out.
Walking you to class, lending you his jacket, small things he could pass of as courtesy and not because he's worried something will happen again.
He isn't. (He definitely is.)
He knows you can handle yourself, it's just a lingering thought in the back of his mind.
Anyways, with wolf beastman Jack Howl by your side, navigation through Night Raven definitely got alot easier.
The room was filled with the bright early sunlight that touched everything it could. You could only squint as it landed in your eyes, acting as a natural alarm clock for you. Slowly, you sat up in the comfy bed and rubbed your eyes of any sleep left over. There was a noticeable aroma in the room that smelled of musk and…sweat?
You looked around sleepily and realized you were still in Leona’s room. It practically forced you to fully wake up when you remembered what had happened the night before. He had practically dragged you to his room before having his way with you over and over again. The messy sheets on the bed was evidence of it, as well as the warm body lying next to you.
For once, Leona looked at peace as he continued to sleep. His hair was messier than usual and his braids were completely undone. You could see his muscular back clearly due to the lack of shirt or clothes for that matter. He had one arm draped over your middle and you remembered him clinging to you before but he must of moved away due to the heat. Carefully, you moved his arm away and climbed over him to go to the bathroom.
It was a miracle he didn’t wake up and the fact that you could still walk. You practically feel against the bathroom counter top before looking in the mirror. “Seriously,” you muttered to yourself as you saw the bite marks littering your neck and shoulders under the collar of the his shirt you were wearing. It took everything in you to not freak out at the current situation. You went to lower your head to take a deep breath but was instead greeted with more bite marks and others all along the inside of your thighs.
You were so distracted by the marks that you didn’t even realize a pair of arms wrapped around your waist. You practically jumped before looking up to see Leona through the mirror. “What are you doing,” Leona asked sleepily before tucking his into the crook of your neck.
You don’t know if it was your mind panicking but you could have sworn there was a soft rumbling against your back. “Nothing,” you muttered weakly which only cause his grip to tighten around you.
“Liar,” he muttered against your skin before peeking out to look at you through the mirror. You couldn’t quite see it but you felt his smug smile against your skin. The sight of you in his clothes and marks only amused him. It satisfied something within him and he wanted that feeling even more. “You look you went through hell,” he mused quietly before nipping at the underside of your jaw. He paused when he caught your scent, it was even more natural due to everything he put you through. He couldn’t help but bury his nose against your neck and take a deep inhale, “you smell good by the way-“
“Leona,” you finally spoke up louder. You could only tilt your head to the side, which only encouraged his actions more. “Stop. Last night…it-“
“Was good,” he quickly cut you off as he kissed down your neck. He couldn’t help but peek down your shirt as he moved to your shoulder. He immediately noticed when you tensed up a bit, no doubt due to his current actions. “Relax,” he pulled back with a sigh but pulled you back against his chest. “Nothing I haven’t seen now.”
“Seriously,” you turned around and was immediately met with his usual cocky smirk. You would have probably yelled if it didn’t affect you so much. It was then that you had noticed a few marks on his chest and arms.
He noticed your staring and sudden silence. He glanced down at himself and only fed into his ego as he crossed his arms over his chest, which only made everything look bigger. “What? You’re staring, herbivore.”
“I’m not,” you quickly looked away. You took a step back and turned around to pull yourself together. “Just…put some clothes on. Please…”
He looked you up and down for a bit before deciding to give in, he didn’t want you to explode after all. “Fine,” he turned around with a sigh. It was then you saw that his back was covered with scratch marks…
TW for gore.
Girlie got hit by a truck, it's par for the course. And I even wrote you a tiny little bit of dialogue from a oneshot that doesn't exist yet. Enjoy... Or be sad. Either or.
“...The doctors, they told my- my mom she died on impact, that she went quickly, and she didn’t- fuck- she didn’t feel all the shit that happened to her…”
Toby’s mouth contorts downwards, an expression trapped in the fresh throes of grief, frighteningly cold as it sets itself into his young features.
“But ‘s not true… I know ’s not true. She was breathing when I woke up-”
The boy slams a hand into his chest, the impact so harsh that Tim almost reaches out to check him over, a long dormant instinct rising to the surface of his skin like heat on tarmac. Toby seems unbothered, the same way he often does with injuries, and presses his elbows more firmly against the cold railing of the walkway, blinking slowly, his hand still pressed to the alcove of his ribs as a hoarse chuckle escapes his bitten lips.
“Breathing- Breathing is a strong word…It was more like… gurgling…”
Those brown eyes linger on a point just beyond the horizon, the curl of cigarette smoke the only movement, even Toby’s sporadic movement having come to a sharp halt.
“... You ever heard someone choke on their own blood, Tim?”
bake your way into my heart ✧ trey clover x reader
in which you realize there's more to heartslabyul's vice-housewarden than you initially thought.
details: emotional hurt/comfort ┊ important conversations, baking as a love language ┊ "strangers" to friends (romantic or platonic!) ┊ gn ramshackle prefect!reader ┊ 6.7k words ┊ this is my love letter to trey clover because he deserves the world after everything ;-;
"What'cha smiling about?"
"Hm?" You perk up at Grim's observation, not having noticed that at all. "I was?"
"You don't smile this early in the morning."
At his comment, you laugh. "You're right. I don't. Just excited to get some practice in with baking, you know?"
"Still, can't tell why you suddenly wanted to join the Culinary Crucible to practice it. Trey's literally over there at Heartslabyul, you know?"
"That's- yeah, I know, Grim, but…"
Grim narrows his eyes at you. "But what?"
You pause—you're not quite sure that Grim would be good at keeping a secret.
"Nothing beats learning something on my own, you know? Sure, I have the ghost chefs helping out, but it's still really up to me to figure things out."
"Hm…fair enough. You'd better do well, then. Our extra credit depends on it."
"Talk about pressure," you chuckle, running a hand through your hair.
"I mean, I'm pretty sure I'd outdo you if my fur and paws weren't considered a culinary issue."
"Uh-huh. I think you'd only outdo me at being the judge for almost every round."
"Hey!" Grim paws at your leg.
"Just kidding. Let's find a workaround for the next one."
"We'd better. I need to show those suckers that I'm not as hopeless as they are in the kitchen."
"I trust you aren't," you huff in amusement, "not when I hear the next one's gonna feature fish."
"FISH?!"
"Good. Now that we have discussed the general objectives of the Baking Battleground—again, the name is still a work in progress—I would like to offer my sincere gratitude to you both for signing up." Crowley grins. "Please introduce yourselves and share what made you want to join this test run."
Your companion volunteers to go first.
"Riddle Rosehearts. Sophomore, Class E, seat number 26. A housewarden must not only excel in his classes, but also in the kitchen. Thus, I signed up to improve my foundations in baking, as I have minimal experience. Furthermore, since pastries and treats are hallmarks of Heartslabyul's unbirthday parties, I hope to contribute more significantly to them by making the most of this opportunity presented to me."
At the memory of Riddle's oyster sauce incident, you nearly snort. Crowley and the new cafeteria ghost—who has been introduced as a former pâtissière from many years ago—give their nods of approval before turning to you.
"I'm the Ramshackle Prefect, from class 1A. I joined because…"
Truthfully, Vice-Housewarden Trey Clover is the real reason you're here.
From the very first moment you met him, he was one of the few people you felt you could trust at Night Raven College. With the academy's rather hostile environment (and students), his kindness was refreshingly genuine.
During your first month here, it was easy to see why he was Vice-Housewarden. It wasn't just his status as a third-year, but the fact that he rarely turns away a student in need, especially his fellow students who find themselves in trouble.
No wonder he's seen as Heartslabyul's "big brother" (yes, even to their red-headed housewarden). You weren't even shocked to find out that Trey carries the same title at home.
Still, it never really sunk in until he actually gave you the older sibling treatment.
The other day, you were holed up in the library studying for your first-ever NRC finals. Rarely do you study at the Ramshackle dorm—a runny nose accompanied by sneezing fits is incredibly distracting. No matter how much you cleaned, Grim and the ghosts always found some way to kick up dust everywhere.
Besides, being in a library chock-full of books was far more convenient. All the knowledge you needed was there at your disposal, a true blessing given how much you didn't know about magic and the world you now live in.
While you were better adjusted thanks to years of going through the school routine, the breakdown was unavoidable. It was a long time coming, now that you think about it.
Earlier that afternoon, you had to stay after class to redo an experiment for potionology. Grim had accidentally misread the measurements for a specific ingredient, causing the potion to turn into a muddled mess. Even though you had done the paperwork, as his partner and "monitor", you had no choice but to accompany him.
At least he was trying to pay attention to the measurements this time, compared to the first instances where he'd just drop everything in without thinking twice. Although the incident wasn't born from his usual mischief, you were itching all over at the thought of extra study time taken away from you. Still, you told yourself to be patient—you still had time, right?
Afterwards, you invited Grim to come with you to the library…where you now sit alone. Sometimes you wish he could be more serious about theoreticals, but you could understand why studying barely interested him. Then again, you shared an enrollment slot. Your grades affected the other's, and you were desperate to keep the two of you afloat.
So, you had tried very hard to convince Grim to accompany you, but he just bolted, saying that he had something to do with Ace and Deuce. You probably should have chased him to verify the truth, but honestly? You were tired. You wanted to stop running after everything. It was getting overwhelming.
If Grim gets into trouble, that's something you'll deal with later. Right now, you've got the history of magic to conquer.
Normally, you appreciate this subject, enjoying the analysis of historical events and their implications in the present day. However, the problem was that this exam still required you to memorize dates, people, and celebrations, none of which you've ever heard of in your life. Obviously.
You try and try and try to recall them. You rehearse them mentally. Make acronyms. Write them repeatedly on a list. Make up a more creative timeline or story of your own.
It shouldn't have been that hard—it's worked before. Yet, your brain refuses to cooperate. Maybe it's all too much to handle at the moment, but you don't want to accept it.
The first tear of frustration slips down your cheek.
No, not now!
More follow, and you can't stop it. You must look kinda pathetic, crying in some lonely corner surrounded by books and notes and-
"Prefect?"
You freeze at the callout. Who just saw me?
"Hey, are you okay?"
You don't trust yourself to speak, not when a sob is threatening to come out. Instead, you shake your head, refusing to look up. There’s no point in lying.
"Do you need help with studying? I'm free today. I don't think Riddle needs me right now."
Riddle?
Oh.
Trey. Of course.
Still, you don't know how to respond. It's a nice offer, but at the same time, you didn't want to inconvenience him. You want to be independent, but you also needed as much help as you could get.
As you wrack your brain for a decision or response, you can sense Trey moving closer. He shifts some of the books at your side, then sits down to your right.
"Here. I have a handkerchief if you need it. Don't worry about getting it dirty."
Darn it, even he noticed that my nose is starting to run. The very thing I wanted to avoid at the library…
Slowly, you turn your head and take a peek at his outstretched hand. You take the checkered handkerchief, giving him a small nod of gratitude before you wipe your face.
It's sweet of him, really. Most students probably would have just stared or made comments without doing anything. You then proceed to cover your entire face with the square of fabric, not wanting him to see the way your face crumples.
"Well, that's certainly one way to use a handkerchief," Trey chuckles lightly. "Don't worry too much about what you look like, yeah? That's the last thing I'm thinking about."
"Sorry-" you sniffle. "Just an ugly crier. Give me a bit."
"Take your time."
There's something about that sentence that makes you pitch forward; something in your chest twists.
"Oh- Prefect, are you okay?"
Maybe your hitched breaths tell him enough. Trey offers to gather your belongings in your bag and come with him to Heartslabyul for a break. You can't do anything else except nod. You want out.
It's rather embarrassing, considering that you've decided to continue covering your face with Trey's handkerchief on the way out of the library. After all, it's not every day one gets to see Heartslabyul's vice-housewarden carrying your bag, a hand on your shoulder as you walk together.
He doesn't pressure you to talk, but gives you a reassuring squeeze or rub to remind you that he's right there. You don't know if that makes you feel better or not—it reminds you a bit of the friends you had back home…
And now you miss them. And now you want to cry again—
"Would you like cookies or brownies?"
"What?" You startle, suddenly realizing that you're both about to enter the Hall of Mirrors.
"Cookies sound great…" You mumble.
"Cookies it is." He affirms. "Chocolate chip?"
It's a very common suggestion, but it almost feels like he's reading your mind. Chocolate chip cookies are truly one of your favorite comfort desserts. Simple, but effective. You nod and thank him meekly.
When the two of you arrive at the Heartslabyul dorm, you vaguely register Riddle and Cater talking to Trey. From what you hear, Riddle temporarily relieves Trey of formal vice-housewarden duties. He asks Cater to take care of some things instead, much to the junior's confusion, but he agrees anyway, something about "learning more about the freshmen."
The two of them give you their well wishes, and you express your gratitude for their consideration. You'll have to thank them again properly another time, not with your hushed voice and bowed head.
Trey leads you to the kitchen. The tears have at least stopped, and your breathing has slowed down, but the pangs of despair remain.
"Do you want to talk about it now? Or would you prefer a distraction?" he asks as he pulls up a chair for you to sit by the kitchen counter.
"I…" You trail off, unsure if you would rather rip the band-aid off or wait until you've given yourself breathing time. Maybe…
"How do you make chocolate chip cookies, Trey?"
"I- Oh!" He picks up on your hint right away. "Of course. Let me show you a recipe. It's the one my parents use."
He walks to one end of the kitchen where a bunch of cabinets are. Slowly, you raise your head to glance at him reaching for a cookbook. Trey returns to the edge of the counter where you sit. He freezes for a moment when he recognizes you looking at him directly, but he gives you a small smile afterwards.
"Here." He opens the book to a page filled with handwritten notes. There are a few stains that you assume come from his own baking attempts. You see a picture of chocolate chip cookies, and he points to the ingredients scribbled beneath.
Although you don't exactly understand how specific amounts of an ingredient can influence how the cookie comes out, you happily listen to Trey explain. Even better, he invites you to try out baking with him.
"Sometimes baking something simple helps me. It's like letting my brain rest, or giving it a refresh. Maybe it could work for you. Wouldn't hurt to try, right?"
"Right," you say, standing up, totally unprepared for the way your mind clears as time passes. It's the novelty of baking, you suppose, that has your brain focusing on something else. And with Trey's guidance, you didn't have to worry too much about making huge mistakes. Suddenly, success didn't feel so impossible to achieve. You felt like you could just exist.
After you and Trey put the cookies in the oven, the two of you look at each other in a silent but mutual understanding. It's time to address the elephant in the room.
"Do you want to start? Or does it help if I ask the questions?" Trey offers, pulling another chair from the corner to sit next to you at the counter.
"Uh…" you huff with a pout. "I guess I can…"
Where do I start?
"Maybe the reason you were crying in the library?"
"Huh?"
"You were asking where to start," Trey tilts his head, a gentle grin on his face.
"Ah. Didn't realize I said that out loud," you laugh nervously. "Um. I was in the library to study, and well, it seems the history of magic got to me."
Trey nods in understanding. "Ah, right. I remember that subject."
"I'm normally okay with studying; it's just that the finals cover a lot and there’s so much material I still need to familiarize myself with, just so I can feel assured. I guess it's motivating that I need all the knowledge I can get to understand this world, but sometimes I just feel so…"
You wave your hands in the air vaguely.
What do I feel?
Trey waits patiently as you come up with the words. He doesn't interrupt or make suggestions. Take your time.
"Sometimes, I-"
A familiar sting behind your eyes makes itself known. You curse under your breath.
"Sometimes…I feel small and alone. Like, at least everyone's got something going on for them. I'm just a stranger here. I know nothing. I don't even know where I can go if I'm kicked from NRC. I don't know if I can go back home. It's so-"
In the middle of your ramble, you find yourself choking up.
"Sorry- oh my gosh, not again." You turn away, trying to prevent him from seeing your face.
"Don't be sorry," Trey says, reaching over the counter for a tissue and handing it to you. "What you feel is understandable. I think I would feel the same way in your position."
"I just try to forget about it," you continue, annoyed at how whiny and distorted your words sound. "But it's hard when you're just constantly reminded that you kinda don't belong here. I don't know enough. I'm just some fish out of water.
"I've gotten lab partners that looked at me weird for not knowing what some of these potion ingredients were—like, how was I supposed to know that mandrakes screamed before Professor Crewel taught us about it?
"How am I meant to remember all these holidays and the history behind them, the people to commemorate, the dates and timelines and…I mean, if it's already difficult for the average NRC student, what more me? And I don't know if Professor Trein will even go easy on me with my situation, and I'm too afraid to ask.
"And if Coach Vargas gets on my case for not running fast enough, I will explode. Especially as a 'non-magic user?' I’m sorry I'm not athletic or a magic user, but gosh, I am trying!
“And I don’t know- I didn’t ask to be a Prefect on the very first day of the school year? I don’t know anything, and I don’t know if the headmage even realizes how stressful this is for me. Does he just choose to act like nothing’s wrong?
“And he also said that everything Grim does is my responsibility. My fault if it goes wrong. Like- look, I try to keep it all in order, but sometimes he won’t listen to me, and then I’m blamed, and I get involved in all these consequences, and it’s not like people are willing to help me out or listen. So…I just…I’m tired, Trey. Tired of holding it all together.”
At the end of your vent, all you can feel is the heat rushing through your face and the chills running up your spine. The contradictory sensation leaves you itching all over. It’s true. It’s all true…but what can you do about it? Nothing, maybe.
You heave a deep sigh. “Sorry, Trey. I didn’t mean to just dump all of that on you. But that’s everything, I guess, besides having to study for the finals that I don’t feel ready for.”
Trey says nothing for a few seconds, leaving the kitchen in silence. You brave a look at his face, a little scared to see what expression he’s wearing. For a moment, you chastise yourself for assuming the worst—especially from someone like Trey. You were afraid he’d suddenly burst into laughter, judge you, or confirm that you’re some poor little weakling who had the worst luck of getting transported to this foreign land. But…
“Don’t be sorry,” he says gently, shaking his head. “Those are all valid concerns. I don’t know how you’ve been managing, to be honest.”
“Me neither.” You press the heels of your palms to your eyes, frowning.
In that moment, it hits you. For the longest time, you felt like you had no one to talk to about your problems…but now? Trey Clover is an exception.
“Thank you for listening, Trey. That already means a lot to me.”
“I- Of course. It’s nothing.”
“I don’t really know what to do, but…I suppose it’s better that I’ve gotten that off my chest now.”
“I mean,” Trey chuckles, “if there’s anything I’ve learned from the past few months, it’s that talking helps.”
“Yeah. It does.”
“And, if I may ask…”
“What is it?” Although you’re not looking directly at him, you can sense the way he hesitates.
“It’s okay, Trey-”
“Would you like a hug? I don’t know if it helps, but-”
Darn it. Darn it.
The dam breaks once more.
“Please.” Your voice quivers. “Please?”
“I- Oh! Yes. Okay-” Trey’s chair scrapes on the floor when he stands, and it’s not long before warmth embraces you. “Come here. Come here.”
You didn’t mean to give him another mini-heart attack, but this is precisely what you’ve wanted all semester—a moment where you could just finally feel at home. You’re reminded of hugs with your family and friends.
You hope Trey knows how much of a godsend he has been today.
The vice-housewarden waits until you pull away first, then gives you a gentle pat on the head, making the two of you giggle.
After a few minutes, the cookies you’ve made have finished baking. It’s not long before they’re ready for consumption, and you’re instantly hit with a familiar comfort, warmth, and sweetness.
As you continue to talk over the pastries, Trey finds an effective way to help you with your history woes—he tells you stories that stick. He provides personal commentary that your reference books can’t, even linking childhood anecdotes to commemorative events. (How can you ever forget the idea of a little Trey running around at a festival? You can’t!)
By the time evening falls, you leave the Heartslabyul dorm with a lighter heart and a heavy bag filled with baked goods. Grim is none the wiser when you return to Ramshackle, pouncing on the treats while complaining about having to study over the weekend. You just shake your head at him as you get ready for bed, but at least you feel like you can fall asleep tonight.
And to think it was all because Trey decided to help me.
Since then, you’ve found yourself constantly hoping that your paths could cross every day. Every opportunity to greet him or share a short conversation was precious to you. It’s only fair that you repaid him for the kindness he’s shown you.
However, nothing prepared you for what you were about to hear later.
“Riddle has everything put together, so there’s not really anything for me to do as the vice dorm leader. I’m kind of like a decoration,” Trey comments as you walk to the main college building together.
You had nearly given yourself whiplash at his statement.
"Decoration? What are you talking about? You do a lot for Heartslabyul, Trey."
"Well, all I had to do was stand there, so…"
"But-"
"Nothing bad happened in the end, so it's alright. Anyway, I’m afraid I have to get to my next class. See you around!"
Trey left you standing in the hallway, stunned by the exchange. You couldn’t focus during your first string of self-study periods, which led to Grim pawing at you multiple times. What in the world is Trey talking about?
In your succeeding interactions, you ended up observing his behavior and statements closely. Was it a one-time thing? Were you hearing things?
But then you noticed his consistent inability to take a single compliment—not even a 'thank you,' but absolute denial. How did you miss that?
You even started asking other students what they thought of him; you needed anecdotal evidence to prove him wrong. Most seem to think of him as caring or kind, the way you do, but others have considered him 'plain.' "Just some ordinary guy. Nothing too special."
And every time you want to argue! What, just because he's "nicer" than most NRC students? Come on.
You’re not crazy for thinking he’s done something impactful towards you, right? If anything, he's been making good progress in his friendship with Riddle. You can see his attempts to be upfront and firm, while maintaining his kindness and understanding. That's something worth celebrating, considering that he had habitually bitten his tongue to maintain a semblance of "peace" in the past. (Not like Ace would let him get away with it anymore, but still!)
You can't bear the itch as you watch him offer help but refuse assistance. Compliment others but belittle himself.
It's not fair. Why can't he see what you do?
It drives you so mad that you think it’s divine intervention when Crowley comes to you about a “baking event with the bonus of extra class credit”—a stepping stone towards shoving kindness Trey’s way. Surely, he can’t refuse something on his special day?
"So, Prefect, you wish to repay someone with a birthday cake. What kind of cake did you have in mind?" Riddle asks as you both enter the kitchen after the briefing. "There is an incredible variety to choose from."
"I was going for a fruity or floral flavor," you respond, showing him the recipe for a lemon-lavender frosted chiffon cake. You also show him a bag of freshly picked flowers in the other hand.
"Lemon and lavender…" He hums. "That sounds like a unique flavor. I would like to try that someday."
"Maybe I can make some for your unbirthday parties once I'm ready."
He brightens up at your offer. "That would be delightful. A helping hand is always welcome."
"I'll let you know, then."
You look at the clock on the wall; there's still time for the delivery of fresh ingredients to arrive before you can formally begin. Riddle proceeds to his work area, and the gears in your head start turning.
It's just you and him at the moment. Do you think he might be able to answer the burning questions in your mind?
It wouldn't hurt to try…Trey is someone important to Riddle, after all.
After a deep breath, you break the silence in the kitchen.
"Riddle, there is something I wanted to ask you, if you don't mind."
"Hm? An inquiry? Would it be related to your chosen recipe? If so, I believe that the new pâtissière would be the ideal person to ask."
"No, not that kind of question. It's actually…related to Trey."
At this, the housewarden straightens up. "Trey? Then, shouldn't you direct this question to him?"
"No. It's not something he can answer." You sigh. "I wanted your personal opinion on him."
"Personal opinion?" Riddle quirks a brow. "Is the headmage requesting a vice-housewarden evaluation? I do not know why he did not tell me directly, but I am happy to oblige."
"No, Riddle, this isn't a formal evaluation. Just your honest thoughts on Trey. As a vice-housewarden, a person, and…as a friend."
Riddle sets down the recipe book in shock.
"Wh- Why are you asking me this, Prefect? Did someone put you up to this?"
"No. I was…"
You scramble for the right words to say. It wouldn't hurt to be honest with Riddle, would it?
"I believe that Trey is an incredible person, but…I don't, I don't think he sees that."
The housewarden's eyes widen.
"What could you possibly mean by that? Trey has been a reliable vice-housewarden. Heartslabyul would not be what it is without his assistance." Then, Riddle lowers his voice. "Especially with the past two months."
You nod in understanding, having been at the forefront of the Heartslabyul trouble.
"So, I do beg your pardon, Prefect. I do not understand. Has anyone said otherwise?"
"Riddle, Trey himself has said otherwise."
The redhead stares at you incredulously. "I, Wh- What?!"
His exclamation seems to catch the attention of the ghost pâtissière, who suddenly floats through the doorway to check on you both, but you shake your head and utter a quick apology. She nods, understanding the situation, before disappearing.
"Prefect." Riddle frowns. "Are you saying Trey is the very person who…"
It's the first time since his overblot that you've seen him express this kind of sorrow; your heart aches a little more.
"Yes. At first, he was calling himself ordinary. Then he started saying things like 'I'm not a very good guy.' 'I'm just decoration.' 'Nothing I do is all that praiseworthy.' Before I could convince him otherwise, he'd change the topic or take his leave."
"Decoration?" The housewarden's face goes red. "What does he take himself for? How can he be mere decoration? He is anything but a bad person! And nothing he does is praiseworthy? Who could have told him that? That is practically an insult to the entirety of Heartslabyul if-"
"I-I don't know. I'm not that close to him, Riddle." You dart your eyes away for a moment, settling them on the baking materials on the counter next to the two of you. "That's why I was hoping you would have known or noticed, because I don't understand it. He has shown so many people kindness when they needed it—me included."
At that, Riddle takes a deep breath, trying to make sense of what you've told him.
"I have never told him anything negative of the sort. The only exception would be my…accusations during my overblot, but I cannot recall the very things I spoke about. Trey insisted it was not important, and that it would be better to focus on the present. He has, in fact, become more active in his participation as a vice-housewarden and his guidance as a…friend." His voice drops to an uncharacteristic volume. "I wholeheartedly trust Trey."
Never in your life did you think the housewarden of Heartslabyul would admit these kinds of things to you, but it is clear that he holds deep respect and gratitude for Trey. Despite the painful truth of your discussion, you find yourself relieved that Riddle is on the same page.
"To be honest, it has been challenging preparing for his eventual…absence. Ever since he has come back into my life again, I find it rather difficult to imagine one without him in it. I may be able to elect a new vice-housewarden, but Trey is…"
"One-of-a-kind," you supply for him.
A small smile appears on Riddle's face. "Yes. That is why I am here, Prefect. I must learn how to uphold the legacy Trey has left behind. I will not let Heartslabyul fall apart, especially not for reasons such as lackluster baking skills. That would be an insult to the Queen of Hearts herself."
You chuckle at the hopeful turn in conversation. "I trust that you'll do well, Riddle."
"I appreciate that, Prefect. However, those words remain empty without my action." He glances at the clock. "In any case, we must begin in seven minutes sharp. I require ample time to read through my chosen recipe; I must ensure each opportunity to make a strawberry tart is maximized."
There he is.
"Of course, Riddle. I should do the same. As I said to the headmage and the pâtissière, there is someone I need to repay, after all."
The housewarden ponders your statement. "Your birthday cake. Would I be correct in assuming this person is Trey?"
"Yes, it is."
A quiet huff of laughter escapes him. "Well, what a wonderful coincidence, Prefect. Stick to the recipe and ask for assistance when needed. You should have no trouble at all when the time comes."
"Of course," you affirm. "And Riddle?"
"Hm?"
"Going back to what we were discussing earlier, I think Trey would love to hear what you have to say."
He gives you a thoughtful look. "Alright. I will keep that in mind. Thank you, Prefect."
"You're welcome. Ah, and there’s one last thing I wanted to confirm; Trey likes candied violets, right?”
The ghost pâtissière guides you throughout the morning, ensuring that you've sifted the flour well, mixed the ingredients properly, added all the necessary ingredients, and set the oven to the correct temperature.
When your cake comes out, you're pleased; it looks a lot better than you thought. The small success pushes you into a good workflow, and you get to frosting and decoration. You take some of the candied violets on your counter, arranging them in an intricate design; you sincerely hope that its combination with lemon and lavender is as good as you've heard. Otherwise…
"Ah, how is it coming along?" The pâtissière asks. "You look a little nervous."
"I'm about to take a taste test. I'm hoping it works well."
"I'll join you, then. As long as it is edible, you may present it to the first set of judges for feedback."
The two of you take a bite from a smaller sample cake that you made along with the main one. It's…okay. Not mind-blowing, but it's not disgusting either. Maybe a bit dry. You let the pâtissière know as much.
"I agree, Prefect. Still, this is a great start. You can go on ahead and go to the judges' table! Now, I'll just go check on Riddle; he seems to be having trouble with his tart shell."
You look to your right, where Riddle scans through his recipe and notes repeatedly. You silently wish him well as you grab your plate and walk to the cafeteria.
Normally, there are three judges, but only two people are seated at the long table—Ace Trappola and Deuce Spade. Of course they're here.
"Yo, Prefect!"
"Hey…"
You nearly snort out loud. "Good morning, Ace and Deuce. Your housewarden will be delighted to see you here."
"The who- What?" Ace sputters.
"Riddle's the other participant. He's just, um," you lower your voice to a whisper, "having trouble with his tarts. The shell cracked."
"Heh, what shell? Oyster shell?"
Deuce presses a finger to his lips, despite fighting his own giggles. "Shhhh! He might collar us if he hears!"
"Oh, please. Look around; he's not here!" Ace waves a hand, then points to your cake. "Anyway, whatcha got there, Prefect?"
"My first attempt at a lemon-lavender cake."
Deuce gasps. "First attempt?! It looks so beautiful!"
"Yeah, 'cause your first cake attempt would look like burnt poo."
"Shut up, dude!"
"Alright!" You cut in. "Enough, enough, go and have a slice, okay? Tell me what I can do better, just don't be too mean about it."
"I mean, it's free food. I'm not complaining, but sure."
You gently place a slice of cake on each of their plates, and as soon as they dig in, they're already humming in satisfaction.
(Still, those boys eat anything, so you don't know if you feel sufficiently validated.)
"This is pretty great, man. You should really make this with Trey for an unbirthday party. Flowers and lemon?"
"Right. I didn't even think this was possible," Deuce looks lost in thought. "Wow."
Hang on. Come to think of it…
"Hey, you two. Didn't Grim say he'd choose a judging slot at the same time as you two?"
"Well, guess what."
Groaning, you prepare yourself for a wild story. "Oh no. What now?"
"He started a liiiiittle brawl with Lucius," Ace states, scrunching his face. "So…Professor Trein wrote him up, and um…they're having a little talk now."
Well, isn't that splendid? You facepalm. "Gosh, I leave him for one morning-"
"Hey, is there a judging seat still available?"
You startle at the sudden voice behind you. "Yeah, it's-"
Wait.
WAIT.
"Trey?!"
He's taken aback by your own surprise. "Um, yes?"
Oh no.
How could I forget that he could be a judge here?
At a baking course, of all places?
"Hello, Ace and Deuce!" The two enthusiastically wave at their senior. Trey adjusts his glasses, turning back to face you. "Um, are you okay? Why do you look so…scared?"
Because you're supposed to get the perfected version of this cake on your birthday!
"It's…well…" Your eyes dart to the empty judging chair.
"They made an incredible cake!" Deuce announces. "You should try it. There's an extra seat left!"
Agh. There's no getting out of this.
Still, you motion for Trey to sit. When he's settled in, you explain what has you rattled to the core. "It's just that it's my first time making this, so please don't have high expectations."
"Ah, is that why?" He chuckles. "Don't worry, I'll critique fairly. Besides, it's not like you've put oyster sauce in it, right?"
"Nope. Not even Riddle had a bottle nearby."
"Haha, that's good! I can't wait to taste what he's made too. Riddle actually told me about joining this 'Baking Battleground'—a silly name, by the way—so I decided to come during my free time. I had no idea you'd be here."
"Well, surprise?"
Not anymore…
"Anyway, what did you- wait! Are those candied violets?" Try as he might to hide the excitement in his voice, you can see the stars in his eyes when he spots the floral sweets decorating the top.
"Yes, they are."
"Agh, that's incredible. It's a childhood favorite, in fact." Trey laughs, seemingly remembering something. "I loved candied violets so much, I ended up eating random flowers as a kid. My parents tried to do their best to stop me, but they ended up sending me care packages of candied violets to this day."
You have to stop yourself from making an awkward noise. That's so cute.
"Care packages, huh? That's really sweet of them."
"I know. I'm glad they let me indulge a little. And well, thank you for somehow feeding my cravings without knowing."
Right.
"Anyway, what is the cake base? I've seen my parents put candied violets on tons of things."
"Well, have they done lemon and lavender?"
He pauses for a moment. "No, they have not." Then, he grins. "I'm definitely excited now!"
"Aaagghhhh! Okay. Okay. Here goes nothing." You place a slice on his plate and watch his reaction, only now realizing how fast your heart has been pounding.
Vaguely, you register Riddle arriving behind you, greeting all three of his dorm members. He gives you a look of understanding, then turns his attention to Ace and Deuce, who immediately straighten up.
You turn your attention back to Trey, who seems ready to share his thoughts.
"Well, I can taste the love you put into this, that's for sure."
"Is that supposed to be a compliment? Or…is it bad?"
"Bad? No, no, I meant that in a good way!" He shakes his head frantically. "And you're saying this is your first attempt at baking this?"
"Yeah."
"That's impressive, then! I can write down some specific feedback for you, so you don't forget. But overall, you should absolutely celebrate this first attempt. You didn't need to feel so scared, and honestly, baking is a process of trial and error. Sometimes, things just go wrong, and all you can do is try again and do it better."
"You're right. It's taken years for you, right, Trey? It'll be a long way before I reach your level."
"Of course. It takes practice to do it instinctively, too. And, despite baking requiring precision and specifics, my parents used to let me mess around as a kid. Experience is your best teacher, because you'll learn from those mistakes and grow."
“Yeah.” You smile in agreement.
Trey tilts his head at you. “By the way, why the sudden interest in baking? I didn’t expect to see you here.”
For a few moments, you debate whether to lie or confess. But somehow, the choice to be honest gives you a burst of courage.
You glance to the side, where Riddle has somehow kept the two freshmen occupied this whole time. You admire his attempts to have more casual conversations with his dorm members, but you don't think he'll be able to distract them for long, especially with what you have to say.
"Come with me," you say, beckoning Trey to join you at a spot far enough from the judging table.
"What's up?" he asks once he faces you.
“I was going to make you this cake,” you say softly. “I mean, obviously I was going to practice some more before giving it to you, but you happened to be here, so...”
Trey’s eyes widen as he processes your words. “I- what? Me?”
“Yeah. You.”
He blinks at you in disbelief, chuckling nervously. “Wh- I don’t- uh…why?”
“To thank you for that day.”
His expression eventually shifts into recognition. “Ah…yes. Of course.” Then, his eyebrows furrow. “Still, why did you go to all these lengths just to thank me? I don’t think I did anything to-”
“No,” you whisper. “Stop.”
Trey pauses, confused. “Huh?"
“You just said that you didn't really do anything that day. You did something, Trey; you helped me.”
“Of course, that’s what you needed. I do my best to help people, but it’s really nothing-”
“It’s not ‘nothing.’ Stop saying it’s ‘nothing.’ Stop saying that the things you do are worthless.”
“I…”
“I’m not saying you should go around bragging and telling everyone that you’re such a benevolent person for all the things you do. I’m just asking for you to believe that there’s value in what you do. The things you do, no matter how big or small, can mean the world to others.”
“Mean the world, huh?” he echoes.
“Maybe helping me that day wasn’t that big of a deal for you, but don’t disregard how I felt about it. If I say it meant something, it did. I’m not saying this to flatter you. I’m saying this as an expression of my gratitude, so please don’t turn it away.”
Trey gazes at you, lips parted in surprise.
“I don’t want to see you minimizing yourself when people praise or thank you. There is a reason they tell you these things, so just listen to what they have to say. A ‘thank you’ or ‘you’re welcome’ is already enough.”
“Oh…”
Trey's expression is unreadable, and you worry that you might have offended him with your forwardness. Still, you find yourself not wanting to take back anything you've said.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to lecture you out of nowhere, Trey, but you deserve to give yourself credit where it's due. I recognize all your efforts, and that's why I appreciate you."
Eventually, Trey huffs and smiles. It's a little different; you know that with the way he smiles all the time. There's more emotion behind it—something that feels more genuine.
Maybe you had broken through the wall a little bit (and you admonish the voice in your head that says it's a silly thing to hope for).
"I…alright. I, um…" He scratches the back of his neck, chuckling. "My apologies, I didn't expect to have such a personal moment when I signed up for this. But…thank you, Pref-"
He stops himself for a moment, electing to use your name instead.
A violent rush of giddiness courses through your body. Instantly, you grin and giggle, contagious enough for him to mirror you.
DEDICATIONS:
Thank you to @lilikags for beta reading!
(get back into twst. get back into twst. get back into- gunshots)
Thank you, @tsukisangel for reading through and for our back and forth writing inspiration! (happy to have a new friend into twst YAY)
Obligatory @amorsial tag because 6.7k words...6 7. Thank you for listening to my ideas and getting excited by my sneak peeks. Trey is finally here! :D
Hi, @aritsukemo, thank you for getting me into TWST and subsequently pointing me towards Trey Clover's existence. And yes, it's okay, I forgive you for making Trey the culprit of our murder mystery LMFAO
@azullumi!!!! Have a piece of TreYumi lore as a thank you for your hard work esp for the incoming comm :]
@mikiruie I hope you are well, thank you for always enthusing my Trey ideas and sharing your TWST works/thoughts with me.
Corresponding TEA99 Order: grapefruit & basil tea in a blue cup, and a smoked salmon sandwich!
✦Sleeping and cuddling at night is good… until the heat making you sweat and suffer
✦(I can’t sleep because of this fucking heat… I hate summer)
Leona Kingscholar
You were sweating. Suffering, actually.
The Savanaclaw night was already thick and warm, and having Leona sprawled on top of you, his head resting heavily on your stomach, arms wrapped around your waist like you were his personal body pillow made it ten times worse.
You tried to push him off. Useless. He was too heavy. You shook him gently. “Leona… get off me.”
He only grumbled a low “no” without even opening his eyes.
You sighed. “It’s too hot.”
“It’s not” he muttered, voice thick with sleep. Easy for him to say he’d grown up in this kind of heat.
“I’m sweating.”
“Doesn’t bother me.”
“My pajama shirt is going to be completely drenched by morning.”
Leona cracked one eye open just long enough to give a lazy, smug suggestion “Then take it off.”
That earned a soft growl from you. He just smirked against your stomach and tightened his hold.
In the end, you gave up. Leona was impossible. You grumbled under your breath about getting an air conditioner installed in his room before you finally drifted back to sleep, still trapped under him.
Ruggie Bucchi
Ruggie was hugging you from behind, face buried in your hair, sleeping peacefully.
At least he was sleeping peacefully.
You were suffering under the hot night and his body heat. You tried to crawl away a little. He pulled you right back. You tried again. Same result. Again and again.
Eventually your squirming woke him up. He whined softly into your neck. “Whatcha doin’…?”
“It’s really hot…” you whispered. “I’m getting all sweaty and gross.”
Ruggie just nuzzled closer, still half asleep. “Don’t mind. Just gives you a little extra flavoring.”
“Ew! Gross!” You tried to push him away.
He laughed quietly, the sound vibrating against your back. “Kidding, kidding. Fine, I’ll move so you don’t complain in the morning.”
He scooted back just enough to give you some breathing room… but his feet stayed tangled with yours the entire night.
That much you can tolerate.
Jack Howl
You loved Jack. Every single part of him.
But right now you were seriously considering cutting all the fur off his tail.
It wasn’t enough that this huge, living, breathing oven was big spooning you, his fluffy, heavy tail was draped over you too. You felt like you were melting straight into the mattress. Trying to escape from under his arms was completely useless, so instead you carefully turned around in his hold until you were face to face with him.
You gave him a gentle shake. “Jack…”
His eyes opened slowly, still full of sleep. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing’s wrong.” you said softly. “I’m just really hot. I’m melting under you.”
Jack’s ears instantly flattened. A deep blush spread across his face as he immediately shifted away, giving you space. “Sorry,” he mumbled.
You smiled and thanked him. A quiet minute passed. Then, very shyly, he asked “…Can I still hold your hand?”
You melted all over again, this time for a completely different reason. You took his hand. His fingers laced with yours, warm and careful. The two of you fell asleep just like that, holding hands in the dark.
Kalim Al-Asim
You thought Scarabia would be cooler at night.
You were so, so wrong.
It was just as hot. And your lovely boyfriend was all over you, face buried in your chest, arms wrapped tightly around your waist, one leg thrown over yours as he happily claimed the role of little spoon. Kalim was completely content, breathing softly against your skin.
You carefully peeled his limbs off one by one and crawled a little away. It worked… for maybe ten minutes. Then you felt the bed shift. Kalim crawled right back over, draping his warm limbs around you again and burying his face in the crook of your neck.
“Why’re you leaving me…?” he mumbled sleepily.
“I’m not leaving” you whispered. “I’m just really hot and sweating.”
Kalim pouted against your neck. “But I love cuddling with you… I sleep better this way…”
You sighed. “I can’t sleep because of how hot it is.”
There was a short, sad silence. Then, with the most pitiful puppy dog eyes, Kalim scooted away and gave you space. “…Can we at least lock pinkies?” he asked softly.
You smiled and nodded. The two of you fell back to sleep with your pinkies linked.
Sometime later you woke up to find Kalim hugging you again, he had crawled back subconsciously in his sleep. You stared at the ceiling and made a firm mental note
Tomorrow, you were making him buy an air conditioner for this room.
Jamil Viper
This was pure torture.
You loved these rare moments when Jamil was completely relaxed and defenseless, your face buried in his chest, his arms holding you close, his breathing slow and even. Moments like this were precious.
But why did this dorm have to be hot as hell?
You were suffering in his embrace. No matter how much you enjoyed the closeness, you needed to survive the heat.
You gently shook him. “Jamil… can you move a little?”
He raised a sleepy eyebrow without opening his eyes. “Why?”
“I’m suffocating under your body heat.”
Jamil didn’t say anything. He simply shifted away, giving you space. You were about to thank him when you noticed he had turned his back to you.
Oh, come on!
You whined quietly. “Not everyone grew up in the desert heat, you know.”
He just shrugged, still facing away. “Skill issue.”
This man and his sass.
You flopped back onto the bed with a huff and grabbed the back of his shirt, holding onto the fabric as you closed your eyes. That was as much contact as you could handle right now.
Sometime later, when he thought you were fully asleep, Jamil quietly turned back around. He watched your sleeping face for a moment, then carefully laced his fingers with yours before letting himself drift off again.
SUMMARY - Marrying the prince of Briar Valley and becoming pregnant with his firstborn was for sure going to turn some heads, considering you're a pure human being. No magic, no background to this world. Nothing. But with your newfound family, you feel at home.
Unfortunately, others don't think the same for you.
CHARACTERS - Malleus, Lilia, Silver, Sebek, Grim (bc he never gets mentioned T^T) Fem! Reader
WARNINGS - kidnapping, attempted murder, descriptions of birth, slight gore
WC - 4617
NOTES - had this idea for a while now, struggled to write a sentence but here we are!! apologies for taking FOREVER to post something. I've been really lazy and not inspired to write, hopefully that changes once classes start again.
also be aware that I am not too familiar with pregnancy, as I am not currently pregnant, so some things written down are not accurate. There will be scenes that won't make sense because the reader is pregnant, and she has to survive some bs so yeah...
one more thing to add! I like to imagine that carrying a dragon fae's child would probably boost your stats. like for example, you're slightly stronger than usual, you have more stamina, and your body is more durable to any injury because if you're going to carry a strong mage's baby, you need a strong body to carry that baby. so the magic just gives you that throughout as the pregnancy progresses and you don't lose it after giving birth, in preparation for any future pregnancies.
big thanks to @s4toku for helping me with the baby name
ᴘᴀʀᴛ 1 (you are here), ᴘᴀʀᴛ 2 (soon)
"Mama! Mama!" A child's voice called, giggles following soon after. The little 'tap tap tap' of feet echoing along the stone walls. Servants completing their duties, swiftly moved to the side to avoid the little prince running into their legs. Smiling, and breathing a sigh of relief, as the young royal shouted apologies as he ran by. "Mama!"
Another servant rolling a cart full of tea and finger foods rolls in front of the little prince, but he doesn't stop his pace, instead he picks up the pace taking a large step and tossed himself into the air. Curling his dragon tail and legs into himself to avoid hitting the tray, performing a somersault, the prince manages to stick the landing. His tail wags at his little victory before snatching a few small snacks from the tray and running off once more.
Skidding to a halt in front of large library doors, the little prince uses his shoulder to push them open. The hinges on the doors creak from its large weight; the smell of old books, coffee, and your perfume envelops the child's senses.
Quickly scanning the large room, he is quick to spot your figure resting in one of many cozy chairs his father provided for your pregnancy. Excited, the prince wags his scaly tail and dashes towards you. "Mama!"
Perking up, you spot your child running towards you. Sliding your bookmark in between the pages, you place the book you were reading to the side, standing from the cozy chair and opened your arms to allow your child to run into them.
"Vicky!" You giggled, spinning in circles once your son was in your arms. The boy, Vincent, or as you liked to call him, Vicky, giggles from the dizzying exchange, screeching in joy before he was set down on his feet. "What brings you here? Oh! Did you finally perfect the spell that was bugging you?"
Vincent shakes his head, obsidian hair swinging at the motion. "No, not yet, but I came here because I wanted to ask you something. But first..." He pauses, sliding his scaley tail in between the both of you and at the very end of his tail, held two small sandwiches.
"I brought these for you!" He beams, watching you take one and eagerly take a bite. "I figured you might be hungry considering you have to eat for two." Vicent motions to your very pregnant belly. You were just ready to pop out the second Draconia heir.
Snorting, you shoved the rest of the food into your mouth. What? Nobody was around to make sure you followed royal etiquette. It was just you and your son, you could take a small break, and Vincent would definitely not tell on you to Sebek.
"Sure, let me hear your question." You chirped, licking your fingers from the jam leaking onto your hand from the snack.
Blinking at your permission, Vincent rocks back on forth on his heels. "Well... You know how Father, Grim, Uncle Silver, and Uncle Sebek tend to avoid answering a certain topic I've been curious about? The one about your scar?"
He points at the long-jagged scar that ran from your left cheek, down your throat, stopping inches from your collarbone. The other small, but still noticeable scar, nicked the corner of your right eyebrow. If it were any bigger and more centered, you would've been twinning with Leona.
"I asked Grandpa, but he just switches subjects, telling me it's 'something to tell when I'm older'," Vincent grumbles, crossing his arms in frustration, before switching to his puppy eyed look.
"Can you tell me how you got those scars? Please, please, please?! I'm old enough!" He begged. You burst out laughing, brushing Vincent's locks from his forehead, being mindful of his ever-growing horns, and allowing his black scales to be seen.
"Yeah, I don't blame them." You sighed, removing your hand from Vincent's head to trace along your scar. "This scar... is a painful reminder to them of what could've happened. They could've lost us."
Vincent frowns, confused. "W-what do you mean by 'us'? Did something bad happen?"
Without responding, you give him your hand, to which he takes, sharp talons brushing against your skin. "Come with me, I'll tell you what happened." Walking down the aisles upon aisles of shelves storing countless historical figures and stories, you settle down in a corner that was far from the entrance.
"This happened around 9 years ago. I was- I think I was 8 months pregnant with you. You were born pretty early." You questioned before shrugging your shoulders. "I forgot but anyways, it was the celebration of your Father and I's second anniversary of our marriage, your father had planned a big celebration. He even invited a few old friends from school..."
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8 years ago...
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"Oh, Malleus! I can't wait for everyone to show up! It's been so long since I last saw everybody." You beamed, clapping your hands as you watched the large town below bustle with life from the castle's balcony. During your excitement, Malleus takes the chance to wrap his arms behind you, gently running his palms over your very pregnant belly, nose buried in your hair.
"I am more excited for our little one to arrive." He kisses your cheek before nuzzling back into your neck, inhaling your perfume and shampoo. Giggling at the sensation, you turn around in his arms and wrapped your arms around his neck, leaning upward to plant a kiss. Malleus groans, fluttering his eyes shut as he brought you closer to him.
Pulling away from the kiss, you bit your lip to contain your laughter from Malleus' expression. His cheeks were red, brows furrowed when you pulled away, pupils dilated with such love for you. "C'mon Hornton, why the expression?" You teased, curling a lock of his hair behind his pointed ear.
Taking your hand in his, Malleus presses your palm against his cheek and shuts his eyes, basking in this sweet moment with you.
Ever since he announced his plans for a big celebration, he's been busy planning everything by himself. Of course, you pleaded with him to allow you to help him with the planning, he simply shook his head, stating that you should rest as much as you can since you were heavily pregnant with his firstborn.
And with a huff, you complied.
Opening his green eyes, Malleus stares down at you. "I cherish you very deeply, Child of Man. You have bestowed me the greatest gift of all; gifting me a family."
Heart fluttering at his words, you lean forward to give him another kiss, hoping to express your feelings through actions but a voice interrupts the moment.
"Oho~ I hope I am not interrupting something!" Frowning, you peak around Malleus' body to Lilia's floating form, hand covering his mouth.
"Aw man, I was getting ready to kiss Malleus silly." You mumbled, crossing your arms, resting them on top of your belly. Lilia barks out a laugh, rustling your hair. Malleus smiles at your words.
"Perhaps, we could continue later?" He suggests, wrapping a hand around your waist.
You pretend to think for a while before shrugging. "Perhaps we could."
"Good, because a few fellows need Malleus' approval on a few things before the celebration starts." Lilia chirps in, letting his body float upside down.
Malleus nods, heading towards the door before stopping and turning towards you. "Will you be fine by yourself? I shall send Sebek or Silver to keep you company."
You wave off your husband's questions. "Don't worry about me, I'm sure you're all busy with preparations, I'm just going to head to town and buy myself some desserts! Little fella's been craving a big ol' cake to feast on. Though, I would love to eat one of Trey's cakes..."
This catches Malleus' attention, worry painted on his face, he leans down to hold onto your hands. "Please, my love," He pleads, "take some guards to accompany you."
"Malleus, don't worry!" Bringing both your interlocked hands to your face, you kissed his knuckles in an attempt to calm his worries. "I'll be in and out, I won't take my sweet time, unlike the last trip."
Your husband tries his best to mask his disappointment, looking down at the town before settling onto your [color] eyes. Finally, he comes to a conclusion.
"Very well, you may go into town by yourself," You silently cheered in your head. "But you must return in one hour." Damn.
"Alright, Hornton, I accept your ter-"
"And you must report to me immediately upon your arrival."
"Oh? Uh, okay-"
"And you must dine with me with your desserts, as proof that you did go out to buy them."
"Wait, all my desserts? Which one do you want me to-"
"And shortly after eating, you must go and rest in our room."
"Okay, Hornton, okay! I get it!"
Malleus blinks at your shout, letting out a sigh soon after. "I apologize, I'm just... very worried seeing you go somewhere without guards."
"And that is completely valid, but I'm not some glass that's going to shatter as soon as I step foot outside the castle." You assured, rubbing your thumbs along your husband's knuckles. "Besides, there's guards all over the place, if something were to happen, I would go to them for help."
He pouts.
"May I at least walk you to the door?" He pleaded, giving you his infamous puppy, or should I say, dragon eyes. Leaning in to reach his height, you plant a kiss on his cheek.
"Of course you can."
"Do you have money?"
"Yup! It's in this pouch."
"Do you have a warm cover on?"
"Yup."
"How about your shoes? Are they fitting fine?"
"Yes, my love, they fit me fine."
"How about-"
"Malleus, my boy, ease with the questions." Lilia pipes up from beside him. Malleus' tail curls and uncurls besides his foot. "I think [Name] is well enough prepared."
Then Lilia turns his attention to Sebek. "Isn't that right, Sebek?"
The knight straightens his posture at the sudden question thrown at him. "Yes, Lilia!"
Silver, who had been nodding off, stands up straight from Sebek's loudness. He gives you a once over, smiling softly as he bows. "Father is right, your Highness."
"Just make sure to buy me some tuna!" Grim demands, gently swatting at your feet, ignoring Sebek's screech 'Grim! Watch yourself!', making sure you don't forget he was there. "Or else, I'll hide your favorite book you've been reading!"
Laughing at the silliness, you scoop your fuzzy companion into your arms, pressing kisses to his forehead while he meows in annoyance, but if you listened closely, you could hear his purring.
"Alright, I'm off now, but Silver do you mind making some tea with the sample Azul sent me? Thanks, adios!" Setting Grim down, you waved goodbye to your family before swiftly skipping along the path that led to the bustling town.
──────────────────────────
"Wow, mother, you sure have a lot of patience." Vincent mumbled.
"Yes, you better thank my head mage for that." You chuckled bitterly, remembering your dear Night Raven College days filled with over blots, work, more over blots, and even more work.
──────────────────────────
The town was loud, crowded, bustling with life and most of all, exciting.
The smell of different foods from each stall had almost made you gravitate towards it, but with a quick slap to your cheeks, you remain steady on your original task.
Flyers and colorful decorations littered the streets, wrapping themselves onto almost everything, giving it life. The air was filled with music from either the old days or popular songs from around the world. People ran past each other, carrying supplies and tools with their magic or hands.
Children of all species ran past you, giggling and screaming for no reason, just for fun probably. Adults relaxing at the bar laughed and sang together, celebrating the King and Queen's marriage.
"Omf!" A large frame then bumps harshly into you, nearly knocking you over. Luckily, you manage to stabilize your footing. "Excuse me."
The man doesn't even bother to apologize, instead, he gives you a bone chilling glare before turning and walking away, shoving past people who in turn shout at him. With a huff, you continue your travel to the bakery.
Entering through the doors, the bells on top ringing at a customer's arrival, the smell of warm bread engulfed your nose. A sharp kick to your stomach causes you to hunch over in pain.
"Yeah, yeah, just wait, I'll order something and leave fast." Rubbing your belly, you walked to the cash register. The owner, a sweet old fae who's known as Betty the Baker, smiles upon seeing your waddling figure but forms into worry at your pained expression.
Quickly, she rushes to your side. "Your Majesty!"
You held up a hand, easing her worries. "Just the usual kick from the baby. Nothing I can't handle."
Betty nods, slowly going back behind the counter. "But is it wise to be by yourself? Aren't you worried something might happen to you?" She frets, clenching and unclenching her hands in worry.
You laughed off her worries. "No need to fret, Betty! There are guards everywhere, I trust them to protect me."
"Now," Rubbing your hands together, you point at a dessert you've eyeing for a while since you came in. "If you don't mind, would you care to pack some of your goodies for me to bring back at the castle?"
Shaking her head, Betty does just that.
And not long after, you found yourself waving goodbye to your baker friend with two full bags of sugary delights. Licking your lips from the fresh bread smell, you set sail to home with a skip to your steps.
"Your Majesty." A voice calls out.
Coming to a halt, you turned to check to see who called you out. It was a guard, his sword and armor glistening in the afternoon sun. His face was hidden from the helmet.
"Yes?" You answered, heart pounding. You haven't noticed the small street you were in was empty, no sign of life for a few blocks. "Is there something wrong?"
The guard saunters forward, the hilt of his sword clinking against his armor. "There has been an incident at the castle, the King has ordered me to relocate you to a safe location."
Your heart drops at the news. "W-what do you mean there's been an incident? What happened to the others? How bad is it?" Dropping the bags of goodies, you blink your tears away. "What has happened to my family!?"
The guard doesn't answer, instead placing his hands on your shoulders and guiding you to an alley. At the end of it, awaited a carriage. The horse in the front, snorts, stomping its hoof against the stone road.
"There is no time for questions your Majesty, I urge you to hop on and escape while they deal with the problem." He shoves you inside, but you refused, pushing past him.
"No! You have not explained to me what the problem is!" You hissed, eyes red and brimming with tears. The guard sighs.
"You're making this harder than it needs to be." You freeze at his cold tone. The man then removes his helmet and lo' and behold, it was the same man that rudely bumped into you earlier.
The man jerks his chin. "Knock her out, Chris."
"W-what...?" Someone chuckles behind you.
"Sorry about this, your Majesty~" Spinning around to face whoever was behind you, your temple explodes in pain. Dropping to the ground, a deep purple bruise forming on the side of your head.
The last thing you saw were two pairs of boots entering your vision before succumbing to unconsciousness.
"She's been what...?" Malleus murmured, barely holding back a growl that was desperate to claw its way out from his chest. The room shakes from the magic, vibrating from his anger.
Lilia takes a step forward, a deep frown on his usual cheery face as he bows before the King. Silver and Sebek bowed behind Lilia, both flaked at his sides.
"It has been reported that the Queen has been kidnapped, your Highness."
Malleus doesn't move. Not even utter a peep.
Instead, he slams his staff down, cracking the floor.
"Find her." He breathes out green flames. "Whatever it takes, find her and return her to me safe and sound. Search for whoever is involved and bring them to me alive. I shall punish them accordantly. "
With a flick of his wrist, Lilia, Sebek, and Silver all spring into action once the command left his lips.
The doors to the throne room shut with a loud bang! and Malleus is left alone with his thoughts. Staring out the window, he rests a gloved hand against it.
"Please," He pleads to no one, voice straining from worry. "Please return [Name] and my unborn child safely to me, don't take them from me so soon."
His plea is answered by silence.
Blinking awake, you groaned at the pain flowing from your temple. You move to rub it but find yourself all tied up to a chair. Choking on a gasp, you move around in your binds harshly. "Nononono, no!"
"Oh look, she's awake!" A voice cheerfully announces. A chair screeches in front of you, snapping you out of your panic state.
"Rise and shine your majesty!" Another voice chimes in, chuckling along with the cheery voice.
Focusing on the voices, you spot the familiar guard, along with two new strangers. While they talked amongst themselves, you pondered at their intentions towards you. What's gonna happen to you...?
A hand comes down and smacked your head, bringing you back to reality. You yelp at the sudden pain, throwing a nervous glare at the culprit. The guard smirks, slapping your head once more. "Are you back from wherever you were?"
"Where am I?" You commanded, wriggling in your binds. "Who are you and why have you kidnapped me?"
The man lifts his hands in a mock surrender. "Calm down, your majesty, there will be plenty of time for us to... get to know each other. But first," He grabs your chin, tilting your head one side then to the other side as he scanned your features.
"Hm, seems like I was correct." The man confirms, releasing his grip; you jerk away from him. "She doesn't look strong, except for that thing she's carrying."
"Excuse me?" You growled out, clenching your teeth together. "Don't talk about my baby like that! They've done nothing to you!"
"Boss, I heard the King has sent people to search for the Queen," A voice interrupts. "Shall we send a warning?"
The guard, who was apparently the mastermind behind this kidnapping, nods at the other kidnapper before focusing his attention back onto you.
"Nothing?" He scoffs, grabbing a fist full of your hair, you let out a cry of pain. "That thing is a stain on humanities record!"
Still with a hand full of your hair, the guard brandishes a dagger. Gasping, you desperately try to bring some distance between you too. Instead of pain, you felt sloppy attempts of your hair being chopped off, not caring if the blade nicked at your flesh.
Wincing at being cut, blood flows down your face, your hair in the man's hands. "If they continue to search, we'll send a warning." He hands your hair off to his lackeys. "If you're on your best behavior, maybe we'll your husband a little present."
Your blood goes cold.
What do you do? What do you do? All you've ever done was fall in love with the most amazing fae you have ever met. Even though, he was the first fae you ever met since your arrival in Twisted Wonderland. You never expected to deal with something like this!? not including the overblots during your school years.
"Since getting to the castle takes at least two days by carriage to get there, have someone teleport you instead, but do not get caught once you try to return." Their voices fade into the background.
What's going to happen to you? Do they plan on killing you and your child? You shake your head. Of course they were! They were planning on who to send to the castle for a little message.
Breathe in.
Breathe out.
Relax, [Name]. You've been involved in dangerous situations before. Hell, you survived over five over blots in one school year, this is nothing. Just wait for the chance to escape and soon, you'll be home. Home with your family.
Just wait for the right chance.
The next day couldn't have come faster.
Shouts and banging could be heard from the other room.
"YOU IDIOTS!" One person screamed, a glass shatters against a wall. You assumed it was the boss. "YOU HAD ONE JOB AND YOU COULDN'T EVEN DO IT CORRECTLY! NOW WE HAVE TO RELOCATE!"
"We-we're sorry boss!" Someone's pleads were ignored as they let out a shriek from an unknown object being thrown at them. "It happened so suddenly and next t-thing we know, we were surrounded!"
"You two!" The boss hissed, pointing at two people responsible for the mess, who in return flinched. "Take the queen and her damn spawn and relocate while I go undercover and lead the search party somewhere else."
You perk up at this. This is your chance to escape while they relocated you. But you had to be careful, if they manage to see through your plan, they'll stop you and that'll be your last chance to return home.
So, you get to planning.
The two kidnappers in charge of relocating you, gathered their items and loaded them up in the carriage that lured you in the beginning. Opening the door to your cell, the two walked in, hair all messy.
"Chris, untie her from the chair and lead her to the carriage, I'll be waiting for you both." Jerry orders to which Chris nods and goes to remove the ropes, you allow him.
The ropes rubbed against your skin that wasn't covered by your dress, Christ is quick to grab your upper arm in a harsh grip and drag you outside where the carriage waited. Each step you took was a step closer to your grave.
I gotta do something! You panicked, cold sweat dripping down your back the closer you got. The first thing to remember when being kidnapped is to never let them take you to a second location- er third.
But before you can form a plan, your shoved back inside the cold carriage, landing on your bottom with an 'omf!', throwing a glare at your kidnapper whom promptly slammed the door shut on you, not caring how you felt as he sat on the plush seats.
"Alright, we can leave!" Chris shouts, smacking the roof of the carriage to signal to his buddy.
With a jerk of his hands, Jerry snaps the reigns and the horses began to move and so starts your journey of forming a plan to escape and head back home to your family, to your husband, Malleus.
"I gotta pee!" You pleaded.
Chris once more groans at your continuous moaning and whining for the past hour. "You can survive a few more hours, just wait."
"But I can't!"
"Yes, you can." He growled, pinching his eyebrows from the oncoming headache.
"I'm a very pregnant woman; I need to pee before I piss myself and I am pretty sure you don't want to clean it all up." You huff, crossing your arms.
Chris' eye twitches.
He hated how you were right and lets out a loud groan, smacking the roof. "OKAY! FINE! JERRY STOP THE CARRIAGE!"
Kicking the door open once it comes to a halt, Chris is quick to grab some rope and bound your hands together before hauling you from the carriage.
"Now go use the bathroom!" He hisses and shoves you forward. "Where I can see you."
You stumble a bit, blowing a strand of hair from your face in frustration after stabilizing your footing. Turning to the bushes on the dirt road, you turn back to your kidnapper with a confused look.
He mockingly shocks.
"What? Go on and piss!"
"Can you at least turn around?" You frown, eyeing the two men who in return watched you with unblinking eyes. "I don't like having an audience when I'm doing my 'business', but if you're into that-"
"Fine! Fine!" Chris cuts you off, swiftly turning around to face the trees that surrounded you three. "Jeez! Just hurry it up, damn it!"
Idiot You silently cheered, lifting up the bottom of your dress above your ankles to sneak further into the forest. Time was critical. You only had minutes to sneak away and hide within the greenery before the two found out what you were really doing.
"You need to find somewhere to hide, something to create distance so you can find your way home without a problem. Back home, where you belong, with Malleus, with Lilia, with Grim.
"HEY!" Chris shouts after noticing you were quiet for some time and turned his head to take a peek at you, to see if you were actually using the bathroom. But to his surprise, you were well deep in the forest. He had to squint to see your scurrying figure through the bushes and grass. "STOP! JERRY, QUICK GRAB HER!"
You took off sprinting.
Well, as best as you could with your heels.
Flying past trees, whose branches harshly cut against your skin, blood dripping down your cheek after turning a harsh left to avoid Jerry's grasps. Your lungs burned with the need for air, your hair, which was previously neatly done by the maids, now undone and messy.
Skidding to a sudden stop in front of a hill, you gazed back, fear painted on your face. Chris and Jerry were quick to surround you. Fuck, you made the wrong choice to turn left.
Each step they took, you took one back, until you didn't have any more space left.
Now you were left with two choices.
Jump or surrender to your capturers with an unknown fate.
Eyeing the cliff, you knew what choice you needed to make.
Chris seems to realize this too, his hands up as he slowly walked to you, slow calculated steps as if you were some ticking time bomb. "Woah, hey, let's not make any risky choices."
Two steps closer.
"If you just surrender, you won't face any punishments."
Another step.
"I won't tell the boss about your little escape plan."
Your body shook in adrenaline and fear. A few more steps and Chris would capture you again, torment you with a future where you're not sure if you or your child would survive.
"So, if you would just step away from the edge... we can forget this ever happened."
A snort leaves your lips. The two men pause in their movements, confused and anxious for whatever might happen. Staring at the man who was involved in your kidnapping, attempting to persuade you into surrendering.
"Fuck you."
Desperately, Chris dashes over in to grab at you as you threw yourself off the ledge, but he wasn't fast enough. You plunged into the raging waters below with a sickening splat! Jerry winces at the noise.
They waited for your body to reemerged from the water, to show the two men that you, somehow, managed to survive the fall. But as time ticks, their hopes dwindled.
"Boss is gonna kill us." Jerry breaks the silence, absolutely defeated from what just happened.
if you like my work, consider leaving a tip? (˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶)
I was gonna make this into one post but literally had a huge writers block then I had people wanting me to post this so expect part two uhhhhhhhhh idk soon
Imagine giving Ruggie the childhood toy he wished he had.
It was only an offhand comment from him, seeing some of his dorm mates getting excited for the holidays, it reminded him of his own childhood, his grandma didn't have the money to buy the toy he wanted, but that's okay, Ruggie knew that they were struggling, so he never asked for anything, he always told his grandma that speeding time with her was enough for him, but even so his granny would save up some money to buy him a tasty treat.
"I would rather spend my money with food anyways." It's what he tells you, after casually telling you one of the most saddest stories you've heard "money is never wasted if it's spent on food y'know?"
He spends that winter with his granny once again, and when he's back from his home, you give him a present.
"it's just a simple gift, but I hope you like it." You sheepishly tell him.
He gives you a shocked look at first, he wasn't expecting anything, especially cause he knows Crowley isn't exactly generous with your monthly allowance, greedy bastard he is, are you trying to gain a favor with him? Or maybe Is this a prank? Is he going to open the gift and get some coal? He gets it okay, sorry for stealing your lunch that day, you don't need to bully him.
After he's done gently unfolding your present, his eyes immediately lock on the toy car in front of him, it's a simple red one, the types he would see the other kids play with, but even a modest little car like that wasn't something his family could afford.
"I know it's not what you expected but I hope you like it- Ruggie are you crying?"
"No I'm not! I just got some sand in my eye dammit!!"
That night he places his gift on his night stand, for some reason when he looks at that toy car, his heart starts beating faster, that's how he knows he's screwed, hyenas are greedy, and when you're so nice to him, he can't help but want more and more.
𝐙𝐎𝐑𝐎 proposes not even a week after becoming the greatest swordsman.
he’s more quiet. he spends an odd amount of time in franky’s workshop.
then, as you two sit out in the deck following a typical straw hat celebration, it happens. a muted ting! that drowns out the sound of the sea.
he sets the ring down beside you.
smooth. matte black. just your size; it was shaped and molded by your swordsman.
it’s made from yoru, a piece that had broken off during the final battle. wado, zoro’s will, was stronger.
“you waited.”
that’s all he says at first, his gaze trained on the sky, because he knows he’ll falter if he looks at you. he knows he’s rough around the edges, knows that his goal had been his focus for years.
and through it all, you waited. you respected his dedication, encouraged him to train on nights he could’ve spent with you, were fine with what he could provide even though you knew he’d been holding back.
he’s made promises before. he’s promised his strength, his unwavering loyalty, his skill.
art credit: huge thanks to @yintrusiva for the beautiful artwork made for this fanfic <3 she’s also open for commissions, so please check out her account!
zoro x gn!reader (fem!reader only in the illustration)
the crew make you two go on a date but you're both competitive af — what will happen?
law version + ace version
tags: first date, fluff, kinda enemies to lovers, soft, humor
word count: 5.6k
zoro m.list || anime m.list || ao3 || ko-fi
Game night was a mistake.
A HUGE mistake.
Especially when the moment Zoro cracked his knuckles across the table and gave you that look.
The one that says: I’m not losing.
You give him the exact same look back, because neither are you.
“Last round. With the three of you.” Nami announces smugly, shuffling the cards “Winner takes all.”
You and Zoro lean forward at the same time.
Competitive energy radiating like two angry thunderstorms about to collide.
Across from you, the rest of the crew watches with barely contained excitement.
This is not about the game anymore.
This is about pride.
Honor.
Ego.
And unfortunately… you remember you two aren't the only two playing. In fact, you both lose.
You stare at the table.
Zoro stares at the table.
Then slowly you both look up and scowl.
“Rigged.” you say flatly.
“Tch,” Zoro clicks his tongue “obviously.”
“Skill issue.” Sanji says immediately, lighting a cigarette.
“You’re just mad you didn’t even make it to the final round.” you snap.
He gasps like you stabbed him.
Zoro snorts.
You elbow him but he elbows back harder.
“Anyway,” Usopp claps loudly, eyes sparkling with chaos, “losers have to pay the price!”
You narrow your eyes “…Price?”
Zoro cracks his neck “Whatever it is, make it quick.”
Huge mistake.
The crew immediately huddles together in a tight circle, whispering like cartoon villains.
You and Zoro are left outside like two rejected bodyguards.
You cross your arms “This is stupid. Technically I arrived second. This doesn't mean losing… who made this dumb rule."
The circle breaks. They’re smiling. All of them. Even Nico Robin, which makes it worse… That woman only smiles when something dangerous is about to happen, you know.
Your instincts scream. Run.
“So…” Nami says sweetly, hands behind her back.
You don’t trust that tone.
“You both,” she continues, pointing between you and Zoro, “have to go on a date.”
“With who?” You ask innocently but as an answer everyone looks bad at you. Here you understand what they mean.
“No.”
“No.”
You and Zoro speak in perfect sync. Then pause to look at each other.
Scowl deeper.
“Absolutely not.” you add.
“Tch. Over my dead body.” he says.
“Aww,” Usopp fake-pouts “Are you two scared?”
You stiffen.
Zoro stiffens.
“We’re not scared.” you snap immediately.
“Yeah,” Zoro growls, “just not interested.”
Sanji smirks, “Then prove it.”
You narrow your eyes “Prove what?”
“That you’re not intimidated by a simple date.”
You feel your pride physically rise.
Zoro’s aura darkens beside you.
You both know what they’re doing, you both see their trap… but you both walk straight into it anyway.
“Fine, I'll show you.” you say.
“Tch. Fine.” Zoro echoes.
The crew explodes with cheering and capping.
You immediately regret everything.
And now… now you’re here. Sitting outside a cute pastry shop on some random island.
On a date.
With Zoro.
You hate everything.
The table is small and round.
Romantic.
Disgusting.
Both of you sit there, slouching like you’re attending a funeral.
You stare at the street.
He stares at the sky.
Neither of you looks at the other.
The silence is thick enough to cut with one of his swords.
“This is stupid.” you mutter.
“Tch. Obviously.”
You both keep looking away.
A couple walks past holding hands.
You both look even further away.
A bird chirps.
Then he speaks out of nowhere “You’re doing it wrong.”
You freeze and slowly turn your head “…Excuse me?”
He finally looks at you and smirks.
That stupid, smug, infuriating smirk “You usually would at least pretend you’re good at this. Just for the sake of winning for your own ego.”
Your eye twitches.
“I’d be good at it,” you snap, “if I wasn’t stuck here with you.”
“Oh yeah?” he leans forward slightly “You think you could do better and not be this boring?”
Your competitive instincts ignite instantly “Easily.”
He scoffs “Prove it.”
“Oh, I will.”
And just like that it becomes a competition.
“Oh wow,” you say dramatically, looking around, “this place is soooo nice.”
“Your acting is terrible.” he says flatly.
“At least I’m trying.”
“You’re trying too hard now.”
“You’re not trying at all.”
“Because I don’t need to.”
You gasp “Your ego is insane.”
“You noticed?”
“I noticed you’re insufferable.”
“Takes one to know one.”
You’re both leaning forward now and actually looking at each other.
“You’d be the worst date ever.” he says.
“You literally get lost walking in straight lines…” you reply.
“At least I don’t talk in my sleep.”
You freeze “…How do you even know that?”
He smirks wider.
You hate him so much.
Before the argument can escalate into an actual brawl a shadow falls over the table.
You both look up.
A sweet old lady stands there, smiling warmly, holding a tray of pastries.
“Here you go, dears.” she says kindly, placing them down.
You both stare at the pastries, then at each other, then back at her.
“…We didn’t order these.” you say cautiously.
She chuckles and points behind you “Those nice friends of yours sent them.”
You and Zoro turn slowly and there they are… at a table across the street… the entire crew.
Grinning.
Watching like it’s a live theater performance.
Luffy and Chopper are the only two completely oblivious, already inhaling sweets like vacuum cleaners.
Usopp gives you two thumbs up as if he's encouraging you two to continue.
Nami smiles and nods mockingly.
Sanji is just staring, he looks mad.
Brook is taking notes.
Robin and Franky smile like proud parents.
You feel your soul leave your body.
You turn back and Zoro is already scowling. Vein popping. Eye twitching.
You mirror him perfectly.
“I'm going to kill them.” you whisper.
“Tch,” he mutters darkly “I'll help.”
You both look at the pastries again. Then at each other.
Same thought.
You grab one.
He grabs one.
You both take a bite at the exact same time maintaining eye contact like it’s a declaration of war.
And somehow despite everything, the corner of his mouth twitches, like he’s trying not to laugh.
Which is unacceptable.
And just as you continue, the crew is whispering loudly. You hear snorts. You hear stifled laughter.
You hear Usopp failing miserably at whispering “I THINK THEY’RE MAKING EYE CONTACT—”
“SHUT UP!” someone hisses.
You close your eyes. Breathe in. Breathe out.
You lower the pastry.
“So.” you say flatly.
Zoro’s eye twitches “Yeah.”
“We should leave.”
“Yeah.”
You both stand at the same time, in perfect sync.
The old lady behind the counter smiles like she just witnessed a romance movie climax.
You feel a migraine forming.
You don’t even look at the crew as you walk away.
But you can feel them like a curse… a presence… a disturbance in the force.
You and Zoro walk side by side in silence, boots echoing against the cobblestone streets.
The city is lively.
You shove your hands into your pockets.
“This is still stupid.” you mutter.
“Tch. Obviously.”
At least he’s consistent.
You walk for a while.
You glance sideways.
Zoro is unusually calm. Hands in his pockets. Looking around lazily like this is just another day.
You narrow your eyes.
Why is he not mad while you’re furious? He should be furious too.
A loud crash echoes behind you, followed by a very familiar voice “OW—!”
You stop walking and you turn around, AND there they are… trying to hide behind a fruit stall but failing miserably.
Half the crew… not even subtle.
Usopp is crouched behind a basket that is clearly too small to hide him. Nami is pretending to inspect oranges while staring directly at you. Sanji is holding a newspaper upside down. And in the back Nico Robin waves calmly, like she’s not part of the crime.
You blink.
“…They’re still following us.” you say flatly.
“Tch. Idiots.” Zoro mutters, but he doesn’t sound mad.
That’s what gets you.
You slowly look at him.
He raises a brow “What?”
“…You’re not annoyed.”
“I am.”
“You don’t sound like it.”
He shrugs “Doesn’t matter.”
You narrow your eyes harder… suspicious.
And then a thought hits you. A terrible, brilliant, petty thought.
You slowly turn back toward the crew.
They immediately duck.
You smile.
Zoro notices instantly but instead of stopping you in whatever thing you're planning, he smirks.
You turn back forward and start walking again.
But now you have a mission.
They want a show? You’ll give them one.
You will make them regret this.
You suddenly grab Zoro’s sleeve “Come on.”
He blinks, surprised for half a second before letting himself be dragged along.
“Where are we going?” he asks lazily.
You don’t answer, you just march forward with purpose.
Behind you, the crew scrambles to follow.
You stop in front of the loudest, most chaotic street you can find. Music blasting. Performers shouting. Vendors yelling over each other.
You turn to Zoro with fake enthusiasm.
“Wow,” you say loudly “This is so romantic.”
He snorts.
You kick his foot lightly.
“Play along.” you whisper.
His grin widens. He’s enjoying this.
You spin dramatically and point at random things “Look! Matching bracelets!”
You grab the tackiest ones you can find and shove them toward him.
The vendor beams.
Zoro stares at them, then at you. Then, without breaking eye contact he puts one on.
Your brain short-circuits as you blink rapidly.
He raises a brow as to say, your move.
You feel your competitive spirit flare. You grab the other bracelet and slam it onto your wrist.
The vendor claps excitedly.
Somewhere behind you, you hear a choked noise that sounds like Usopp dying.
You keep going.
You drag Zoro to the loudest stalls. The weirdest shops. The most embarrassing spots.
You exaggerate everything. Fake gasp at ugly decorations. Overreact at cheesy couple items.
You even lean closer to him at one point just to make it worse for your not-so-invisible audience.
Your soul leaves your body a little, but the mission is bigger than your dignity.
Zoro is not helping at all.
He lets you pull him around like a ragdoll with hands in his pockets and that lazy smirk never leaving his face. Occasionally throwing in a comment just to make it worse.
“You’re really committed.” he mutters once.
You glare “Shut up.”
He chuckles.
You feel personally attacked.
You stop in front of a mirror at a random stall, pretending to inspect something shiny.
But really, you’re checking behind you and there they are.
Good. Let them watch.
Even if you have to destroy your own pride to make them regret this.
Beside you, Zoro watches you from the reflection, amused and quiet. And he has no intention of stopping.
As you keep on walking, as you’re mid-scheme, you see it.
You stop so suddenly Zoro almost walks into you.
Your eyes widen, your jaw drops and you gasp audibly and way too dramatically.
Zoro immediately narrows his eyes “What.”
You don’t answer because you’re already moving “No way—”
You bolt straight ahead.
Zoro watches you run like you’ve lost your mind. Then follows at a normal pace, hands still in his pockets, completely unbothered.
When he finally reaches you, you’re already standing in front of a game stall, practically vibrating.
It’s one of those festival booths with cheap prizes hanging everywhere.
Throw the rings and hit the targets to win something stupid.
You look like you just found heaven.
Zoro looks at the stall, then at you and then back at the stall.
“…Are you a kid?” he asks flatly.
You slowly turn your head toward him. Offended.
“You just don’t want to admit you’re a loser.”
And there it is the moment and the fatal blow.
Zoro’s eye twitches. His lazy smirk gone.
The swordsman who didn’t care five seconds ago? Dead.
You have awakened something.
“Tch,” he clicks his tongue, stepping forward “move.”
You grin.
Oh, it’s on.
Coins slam onto the counter.
The stall owner startles slightly but smiles nervously “W-welcome! Just throw the rings and—”
You’re already grabbing them.
Zoro grabs his own set.
Neither of you listens to the rules.
You don’t need rules.
You need victory.
Miss.
Miss.
Miss.
Clink.
Bounce.
Miss again.
You narrow your eyes.
Zoro frowns.
This is unacceptable.
Again.
And again.
And again.
You lean closer to the counter.
Zoro rolls his shoulders like he’s about to fight a war.
The stall owner laughs nervously “Ahaha… it’s just for fun—”
“I will win…” you mutter.
“Tch. Not before me.” Zoro snaps.
Time stops meaning anything.
People pass behind you watching with fear.
Somewhere, a performer shouts.
You hear none of it. You only hear the clink of rings, your own breathing and Zoro.
“You’re throwing wrong.” he says.
“You’re aiming wrong.” you fire back.
“At least I hit the table.”
“That’s not the goal!”
“Tch.”
You lose again.
You slam another coin down “Again.”
Zoro does the same.
The owner starts sweating.
“Y-you can try the shooting game instead—”
“No.”
“No.”
You and Zoro speak in sync.
Never looking away from the targets.
More throws. More misses.
Your frustration rises.
Zoro’s aura darkens.
You both lean so far over the counter you’re practically invading the stall.
The owner laughs weakly “Maybe… maybe take a break—”
You don’t hear him.
Neither does Zoro.
Because at this point it’s just you and him. And war.
You throw again.
Miss.
You snap “Is it rigged?? Damn!”
You slam your hands on the counter dramatically.
Zoro doesn’t even react, he just grabs another ring.
Eyes sharp.
Focused.
Terrifying.
The stall owner begins to panic. His smile drops completely.
You’re both still muttering under your breath, arguing between throws and competing like your lives depend on it.
Behind you, a small crowd has formed.
You don’t notice.
You don’t care.
“Stand back.” Zoro mutters, rolling his neck like he’s about to unleash a forbidden technique.
“It’s a ring toss.” you snap.
“Tch. Watch and learn.”
He throws.
Misses.
You gasp loudly “Pathetic.”
“SHUT UP.”
The stall owner looks like he’s about to cry. His hands tremble as he leans forward slightly, voice small “P-please leave…”
You grab another ring.
Zoro grabs another.
Neither of you acknowledges him.
Not even a glance.
You throw again.
Miss.
You slam the counter.
Zoro growls.
The owner looks like he’s reconsidering his entire career.
“Please,” he whispers again, voice shaking, “I beg you…”
But you and Zoro only hear each other, only see each other. Locked in the dumbest, fiercest battle imaginable.
And somewhere deep down, neither of you realizes you stopped caring about the crew watching a long time ago.
After many other tries you throw again but this time it wobbles.
You both lean forward at the exact same time.
The ring tilts. Balances.
And then it drops perfectly onto the bottle.
Silence.
You blink.
Zoro blinks.
The stall owner blinks.
“I GOT IT?!” You explode.
You jump up and down, hands in the air, laughing in pure disbelief “I GOT ONE IN!”
You spin around and, without thinking, grab Zoro by the shoulders “Did you see that?!”
He doesn’t jump, of course he doesn’t, but he’s looking at you and there’s a soft smirk on his face.
“Yeah,” he says quietly “I saw.”
Continue after illustration:
You’re still holding onto him when it hits you. You let go immediately, but you’re still grinning bright.
You don’t even realize that a minute ago you were trying to beat him and now you’re celebrating like you both won.
You turn back to the stall, scanning the prizes like you just unlocked a treasure vault.
And then you point dramatically where hanging slightly to the side there’s a plushie,
Green. Grumpy. Round little body. Perpetual scowl stitched onto its face.
You don’t even notice the resemblance, but Zoro and the stall owner do.
And somewhere behind you, someone snorts.
“I want that one.” you declare proudly.
The stall owner freezes.
He swallows “Y-you need three rings in for that…”
You turn slowly and your expression shifts from happy to calculating to dangerously competitive.
Everyone feels the aura change immediately.
You roll your shoulders slightly.
“Three?” you repeat.
The stall owner pales.
“B-But—!” he stammers quickly, hands flying up defensively “You tried so much! I-I’ll give it to you anyway! And— and I’ll give one of his choice to your boyfriend as well!”
Silence.
The word hangs there.
Boyfriend.
Your brain stops.
Your heart does something incredibly stupid.
You blink.
Heat creeps up your neck.
Beside you, Zoro stiffens just barely.
You glance at him.
He’s not correcting it. Not snapping. Not denying.
He’s just standing there, arms crossed, looking mildly annoyed at the implication but not offended. Not rejecting it.
Your chest tightens in a way that has absolutely nothing to do with competition, and you realize something terrifying… you don’t mind, not even a little.
“Oh…” you say weakly.
The stall owner nods rapidly, desperate to survive this interaction “Yes! Yes! Take anything! Please!”
You look back at the plushie then at Zoro.
He looks at the plushie then at you.
There’s a flicker in his eye.
He reaches up and grabs one from the side.
A different one.
The stall owner practically shoves the plushies into your hands like he’s paying a ransom “Thank you! Please enjoy the rest of the festival… far away from here!”
You don’t hear him.
You’re staring at the plushie in your arms. It’s soft, round and angry-looking.
You hug it instinctively.
Zoro watches you do it and that soft smirk of his returns.
You start walking away, quiet now.
The chaos of earlier is replaced with something… different.
Your heart is still beating a little too fast.
Your fingers brush against the plush as you hold it.
After a few steps, you notice Zoro is walking slightly closer than before.
Then without a word he holds out his plushie.
You blink “What?”
“Take it.”
“…Why?”
“Tch. I don’t need it.”
He doesn’t look at you when he says it, he just keeps walking, arm extended slightly in your direction.
You stare at the plush, then at him, then back at the plush.
Your heart does that stupid thing again.
You accept it quietly.
Your fingers brush his for half a second.
He exhales softly and you just pretend not to notice.
Now you’re holding both plushies.
You look at them, then up at him.
And for once you don’t hide your smile.
He catches it from the corner of his eye and doesn’t say anything, but the tips of his ears turn slightly red.
Behind you, somewhere in the distance, you hear faint whispering and dramatic gasps.
You don’t look back, you don’t care anymore, because as you walk beside him, plushies in your arms and something unfamiliar but not unwelcome blooming in your chest, you realize, quietly, that this stopped being about proving anything a while ago.
You walk back to the ship side by side.
Zoro walks with his usual lazy stride, hands in his pockets, expression neutral, like nothing life-altering just happened.
You reach the ship and go aboard.
Still no words about anything, just silence, but comfortable.
You stop near the stairs that lead below deck.
“…Night.” you say casually.
“...Night.”
That’s it. No dramatic pause. No lingering touch.
You turn and head to your room.
Behind you, hidden very badly behind barrels and ropes, half the crew deflates in disappointment.
“THAT’S IT?!” someone whispers aggressively.
“No kiss?!” another hisses.
You don’t hear or see them, because you’re too busy trying to understand why your chest feels warm.
Why you’re smiling, why replaying the night makes your stomach flip in a way that’s not annoyance.
You flop onto your bed, staring at the ceiling.
“…Why am I feeling like this…” you mutter.
The plushies sit beside you.
You bury your face into them to hide your smile and that’s when it hits you that you didn’t hate tonight.
You just… liked being there… with him.
The next morning is a disaster.
You step into the dining area and immediately freeze.
Everyone is there.
Brook leans forward eagerly, teacup in hand.
“Good morning!” he sings “May I ask how your romantic evening was? Yohohoho!”
You contemplate throwing him overboard.
“SUPER curious!” Franky flexes dramatically “Was it SUPER romantic?!”
“Did you hold hands?” Usopp demands.
“Did you confess?” Nami adds sweetly.
“Did you fight?” Sanji asks suspiciously.
You inhale slowly and exhale slowly.
You sit down and say nothing, you just start eating very calmly as they continue relentless.
“You brought back matching plushies!” Usopp points accusingly.
Your eye twitches but you keep eating.
Across the table Zoro sits like nothing is happening, drinking tea or whatever’s in the cup, calm and unbothered, not even reacting to the chaos.
The only difference from other mornings is that he isn't teasing you.
He just looks… anywhere but at you.
That’s new.
Days pass and something changes.
Zoro still trains, naps, gets lost somehow on the ship, and argues with Sanji…
But with you he’s… different. Less sharp and less provoking. If you reach for something, he doesn’t snatch it first as he used to. If you say something competitive, he just hums instead of biting back as he used to.
If you challenge him, he lets you win.
You stare at him suspiciously but he avoids your gaze.
You preferred the fighting and its sparks.
Now it feels like he’s stepping back, like he’s giving you space you didn’t ask for.
And you hate that.
One afternoon, you find him alone on deck, sitting against the railing with sunlight hitting his face, sleeping or pretending.
You approach. Arms crossed.
“Are you sick?” you ask bluntly.
One eye opens.
“…What.”
“You’ve been weird.”
“Tch.”
“That’s not a denial.”
He sits up slightly “You’re imagining things.”
“No, I’m not.”
Silence.
You step closer “What’s going on?”
He looks away and scratches the back of his neck “Nothing.”
You narrow your eyes “Zoro.”
He inhales, about to speak, and then—
“NEW ISLAND!” Luffy screams from the crow’s nest.
Everyone rushes, excited yelling, footsteps thundering past you.
But you don’t move and neither does Zoro.
You’re still looking at each other with something unsaid hanging heavy between you.
He stands.
Still silent.
Soon, the ship docks.
Everyone spills out eagerly.
You start walking toward the town when—“Y/N.”
You freeze.
He rarely calls your name like that.
Quiet.
Almost hesitant.
You turn.
He’s standing a few steps behind, not looking at you but looking somewhere to the side, like the sky is extremely interesting all of a sudden.
“…You… wanna go eat something?” he mutters.
You blink.
You don’t answer.
Your brain refuses to function.
At the silence, he finally looks at you and sees your shocked expression.
His jaw tightens slightly.
“It’s fine,” he mutters quickly “I’ll go alone.”
He turns but you grab his sleeve “Wait.”
He stops and looks at your hand, then at you.
“…I’ll go.” you say.
His shoulders relax just slightly “Tch. Good.”
You both start walking side by side.
The town is lively but it feels quieter to you.
After a moment, you glance at him “So…”
He grunts.
“…Is it a date?”
He stops walking instantly.
You stop as soon as you notice.
His head snaps toward you, eyes wide for a fraction of a second “What?”
You laugh lightly “Relax. I’m joking.”
You quickly continue to walk so he doesn’t see your expression as you say “...but I wouldn’t mind if it was.”
You say it casually but your heart is trying to escape your body.
You hear his footsteps rush behind you.
Suddenly a firm hand grabs your wrist.
You turn, surprised and see him close.
His grip isn’t rough but steady and certain.
He looks at you directly.
No more avoidance.
“Then it is.” he says quietly.
You blink.
He exhales “…A date.”
Silence.
Your brain melts but somehow you relax and a soft smile spreads across your face “Perfect.”
He lets go slowly.
You both turn and start walking again like nothing monumental just happened.
Like your hearts aren’t lighter.
Like your steps aren’t a little closer.
Like this isn’t exactly what you both wanted all along.
The restaurant is loud and perfectly pirate-coded. No fancy decorations. No romantic lighting. Just noise, food, and the smell of grilled meat.
Exactly the kind of place neither of you has to pretend in.
You sit across from each other, but unlike last time, none of you is scowling.
Zoro rests one arm on the table. You sit with your hands loosely folded, pretending the menu is the most fascinating thing you’ve ever read.
Silence. Not hostile. Just shy.
You glance up and he’s already looking at you but he immediately looks back at the menu.
You blink.
A few seconds later, he looks up again and your eyes meet. Neither of you smirks or challenges, it’s softer than that.
Then the waiter arrives and breaks the tension.
You both order quickly.
When the waiter leaves, you sit there in silence again.
“So…” you start.
“So.” he echoes.
You both pause.
You clear your throat “Training’s been… good?”
“Tch. Obviously.”
You nod “Right.”
Silence.
He shifts slightly in his seat “You’ve been winning more lately.”
You narrow your eyes “You’ve been letting me.”
He huffs faintly “You noticed.”
“Of course I noticed.”
A small pause.
“…Why?” you ask.
He looks at you then away “Didn’t feel like fighting.”
Your chest does something strange at that “Oh.”
Food arrives.
You both focus on eating for a moment and it helps. Talking with food around feels less intense.
You exchange small comments about the seasoning. About the island. About how Luffy is probably already banned from three establishments.
You’re still shy but it’s not heavy, just new.
Then the drinks arrive and you stare at yours, then at him.
Then you sigh dramatically “Okay, that’s enough.”
He pauses mid-sip “What.”
“We’re being weird.”
“Tch.”
“We just have to relax,” you insist “So let’s drink a bit, okay?”
A slow smirk appears on his face.
There it is, the Zoro you know.
He lifts his glass “Fine.”
Clink.
You drink, not a lot but enough to take the edge off.
He sets his glass down and you follow.
Something shifts, your shoulders loosen, his posture eases.
You start talking again. You tease him about getting lost on the way here and he denies it.
You call him out and he calls you stubborn.
You call him worse and he smirks.
You both laugh.
At some point you’re leaning forward slightly and he is too.
Later, you step outside.
The air hits cooler after the warmth of the restaurant.
You walk side by side, not touching but close.
Your hands brush once and neither of you comments.
You reach the quieter part of the dock.
The ship is visible in the distance.
You both slow down as neither of you seems eager to climb back aboard yet.
You lean lightly, looking out at the water.
He stands beside you close enough that you can feel his warmth through the fabric of your sleeve.
You glance at him and he’s already looking at you this time.
Your heart beats faster.
“…This was nice.” you admit softly.
“Yeah.”
You smile faintly.
Another pause. Longer this time.
Neither of you moves. Neither of you steps closer. But you don’t step away either.
Your hand shifts slightly on the railing and his fingers brush yours again.
Your pinky hooks lightly against his.
He still doesn’t move but his hand turns just enough that your fingers slide into his palm.
You lace them together.
He exhales slowly.
Your heart is loud in your ears.
You’re so close now that you can see the faint scar over his eye clearly.
You don’t plan it, you don’t announce it. You just lean in slightly.
He notices but he doesn’t pull back. Doesn’t rush forward either.
You’re both terrible at initiating.
So you don’t… not fully. Instead, you lift your free hand and rest it against his chest, right over his heart.
It’s steady. Strong.
He inhales sharply at the contact and his hand tightens around yours.
You look at each other.
So close.
“If you don’t want to…” you start quietly but he cuts you off by leaning down enough that his forehead rests against yours. His nose brushes yours slightly. Breath mingling.
“You talk too much.” he murmurs.
Your lips twitch “Oh yeah?”
“Yeah.”
Neither of you moves for a second longer, like you’re both silently asking the same question.
Then you both close the distance at the exact same time.
It’s almost clumsy and hesitant, but warm.
His hand slides to your waist.
Yours tightens against his chest.
The kiss is firm but careful.
When you pull back, you’re both breathing a little heavier, foreheads still touching.
You smile first. He pretends he didn’t notice but he doesn’t let go and neither do you.
EPILOGUE
The walk back to the ship is quiet.
Not awkward, just… calm.
You and Zoro walk side by side along the dock. Your shoulders brush once in a while, but neither of you comments on it… neither of you needs to.
When the Thousand Sunny finally comes into view, you both slow down a little.
The ship is mostly quiet, a few lights are on.
You stop at the foot of the ramp.
Zoro looks at the ship, then at you.
“Well…” he says.
“Well…” you echo.
A beat of silence.
Neither of you says “so we’re together now” or “what are we going to tell them?”.
You just… look at each other and then you shrug “Goodnight.”
He almost laughs and then he nods once “Night.”
You both walk up onto the Sunny and that’s it. No announcement. No dramatic reveal.
You just go to your rooms.
The next morning, nobody asks anything because they don’t know… and neither of you brings it up. Not because you’re hiding it. It just… never comes up.
You still argue with Zoro. You still compete with him. You still sit across from him at meals.
Sometimes your knees bump under the table. Sometimes your hands brush when you both reach for something. Sometimes you catch him watching you. Sometimes he catches you watching him. Sometimes you kiss when no one is around.
The crew is completely oblivious.
Somehow even Robin, who probably knows but chooses chaos.
Weeks pass.
The Sunny sails through calm blue seas and life goes on.
Then one day… “GAME NIGHT!!!”
Luffy’s voice explodes across the deck.
The crew cheers and somehow you all end up around the big table.
Cards, dice, snacks, chaos.
And of course you and Zoro would never skip a competition.
Hours pass.
Rounds are played.
People get eliminated.
Luffy gets distracted halfway through by meat.
Chopper loses because he keeps trusting Usopp.
Franky dramatically blames the rules.
Sanji gets eliminated early and spends the rest of the time glaring.
Eventually it’s down to two players.
You and Zoro.
The crew leans in.
The atmosphere is intense.
Usopp is commentating dramatically.
Chopper and Luffy are vibrating with excitement.
“FINAL ROUND!!!” Usopp announces.
You lean forward, eyes sharp.
Zoro leans back in his chair, smirking “Tch. Ready to lose?”
You scoff “In your dreams.”
“Been winning a lot lately.”
“Because I’m better.”
He raises an eyebrow “Or because I’ve been going easy on you.”
You gasp in mock offense “Oh please.”
The crew oooohs.
Luffy is yelling something dumb.
Usopp shouts, “THE TENSION IS REAL!”
You point at Zoro.
“Don’t worry,” you say confidently “I’m gonna kiss you anyway even if you’re a loser.”
Silence.
Total.
Absolute.
Silence.
Every Strawhat freezes.
Usopp and Nami’s mouths hang open.
Chopper blinks.
Sanji drops the plate he was holding.
Brook stops mid-laugh.
Robin smiles.
Franky’s sunglasses slide slightly down his nose.
Luffy tilts his head “…Huh?”
Your brain catches up with your mouth… way too late.
You slowly look around and see nine pairs of eyes staring at you. Wide. Horrified. Curious. Exploding.
And then—BOOM.
“WAIT WHAT—”
“YOU WHAT?!”
“WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN?!”
“YOU KISS?!”
“ARE YOU DATING?!”
“WHY DIDN’T YOU TELL US?!”
“WAS IT ROMANTIC?!”
“WHO CONFESSED FIRST?!”
“DID YOU HOLD HANDS?!”
“DID YOU—”
You slowly slam your face onto the table.
Thud.
“…I hate all of you…”
The yelling continues. Questions fly over your head like cannon fire.
You stay face-down on the table, accepting your fate.
Then a warm hand lands gently on your head.
You look up and look at Zoro who is completely unfazed.
He smirks down at you.
The crew is still shouting too loudly to hear anything else.
He leans down slightly, close enough that only you can hear him.
His voice is low and amused “Told you you talk too much.”
You glare weakly and he smirks wider.
Then he adds quietly “But you’re keeping that promise… the kiss?”
Your brain short-circuits and before you can make your brain function you casually lean in and kiss him.
Right there… in front of everyone.
The crew explode.
“AAAAAAAAAAAAAA—”
Sanji collapses dramatically.
Chopper screams.
Usopp falls out of his chair.
Franky shouts “SUUUUUPERRRRR!!!”
Luffy claps like this is the best game night ever.
You bury your face in your hands as soon as you understand what you just did.
Zoro just sits back down like nothing happened but he's obviously dying inside and somehow you're both still fully ready to win the game.
synopsis: after getting caught having sex with your boyfriend, you feel ashamed by how much he made you hide.
genres: smut, angst, slight comfort in the end
word count: 4.5k
requests: open
From what you remember, it hadn't felt that long since you and Zoro got together.
You've traveled with the crew since bumping into them at Loguetown, needing a new life and an escape from your boring life. It sure as hell didn't take long for you to develop feelings for Zoro. He was serious, focused, and absolutely strong. But under those muscles, he's loyal, dedicated, and adorably shy.
After departing with Vivi and leaving Alabasta, you two began to grow closer. But after the events of Enies Lobby, you couldn't bear the thought of losing Zoro and never getting the chance of telling him how you felt.
When you confessed to him about your feelings for him, it completely surprised you when he revealed his feelings to you too. As a result, you guys grew much closer and made it official after reuniting in Sabaody.
However, you never really understood him when he didn't want you to act as his girlfriend in front of the crew. I guess it could be because he's not used to affection and didn't want to be flustered, you thought. Or maybe it's because he wants to focus on training, you told yourself. But despite the constant questioning of his specific boundary, you respected it and pushed the doubt aside.
For a couple of weeks, you didn't mind it at all. In fact, the thrill you get from trying not to get caught really spiced the relationship. You liked giving him quick kisses and even brushing his hand as you walked past him in the hallways. Sometimes you and Zoro would even stay behind on the ship, having the sloppiest, messiest make-out session known to man, as the crew explored an uncharted island. And every once in a while, you guys would be having sex at the lookout tower while everyone else was fast asleep.
You desperately tried your hardest to conceal your moans as your boyfriend pounded his cock deep into your pussy, bullying your cervix. Even though the lookout tower was far from the men's and women's quarters, you still felt paranoid about getting caught like this. But the way Zoro thrusted his every inch in you made it extremely difficult not to.
"C'mon, baby," he grinned as he gripped your ass. "Lemme hear that pretty voice."
The sounds of wet skin slapping against each other filled the room. Zoro loved it. He knew your body so well and how you were so close to reaching your climax. It wouldn't take long for both of you to become a hot, moaning mess.
His dick curved into that perfect spot, with each hard thrust making your eyes roll to the back of your head. At this point, you had given up your weak protests and gave in to the sweet, overwhelming pleasure. Your back arched at the feeling of his balls hitting your clit, making your legs quiver from how long you've been in doggy form.
"Oh fuuuuck.." you moaned as you shuddered, slow breaths that escaped your mouth. "S'good, Zoro. S'close too."
"I know, pretty girl. Need ya to cum for me," he grunted, already starting to feel his climax coming in as well. You hummed in response, not able to get words out at this point. You were completely cock-drunk and hazed from the pleasure.
"OH MY GODDD WHAT THE FUUCK?!" Nami screeched in horror at the sight of you getting dicked down by Zoro. You both snapped out of it and attempted to cover yourselves up. But with your clothes being on the other side of the room, your attempts were of no use.
Although you both had been caught, you were grateful to see that it was only Nami who witnessed such a vulnerable and intimate moment.
"Everyone is wondering what the hell that noise could be, and because everyone is such a pussy, I had to be the one to check out what that sound was!" It was obvious that Nami was beyond pissed. Her face held so many emotions at once that it felt better to get caught by the whole crew instead.
"I came here, expecting to see some stupid animal. What the hell do I see?!" Nami paused to look at both of your faces, huffing out air from the intense emotions hitting her all at once. "You guys fucking!!"
You've never seen Nami this angry before. She's never even reacted this way when Luffy had spent all of their money on a feast. You wanted to say something so badly. But you couldn't even form any words to come out of your mouth. It was already bad enough that you had to hide your relationship from your crewmates. Hell, your friends.
"Look, woman," Zoro responded as he got up to get his clothes, not caring in the slightest that his dick was out. "You came here because you wanted to find out what the noise was. Now you know, so you can leave."
"Leave? Leave?!" Nami yelled in both utter confusion and frustration. "You expect me to leave after seeing this?!"
Nami turns to you, "Y/n, when was this?!" She points to Zoro and then back to you. Because you were still in shock, words still couldn't find their way out of your mouth.
"Why do you care? It doesn't matter," Zoro responded for you. He looked at Nami with no expression and then at you with the same look.
Doesn't matter? Doesn't matter?? What could he possibly mean by your relationship not mattering to him? All the thoughts you had pushed aside came rushing to you in an instant. It didn't matter to you that you were on the floor, naked, and had just been caught. The only thing that was on your mind was how stupid you were.
All the hiding you did for him. The secret kisses, making out when no one was looking, brushing his hand when you both walked past each other, and the countless sleepless nights you both had just so you could have sex. All of that was behind your crew's backs.
You've always felt ashamed that you had to do this in secret. It didn't matter to you if your boyfriend kissed you in front of everyone, and you never understood why Zoro didn't want that. In fact, you've always wanted that ever since you got into a relationship with him. Maybe even a simple 'I love you' at least.
The sound of Nami yelling at Zoro for being a dishonest, secretive friend was drowned out by the overthinking. How could you have been so stupid, especially for a man?
Although you and Zoro were really close, Nami obviously cleared him. Not only were you the other girl in the ship she could rely on when you joined, but both of you had so many things in common that your guys' conversations never seemed to go dry.
Seeing Nami react this way was justifiable. You could even say that her reaction was extremely underwhelming because of how close you both are; you're practically sisters. You knew hiding your relationship was wrong. There was no reason to even hide it anyway. Yet, despite you knowing it was wrong, you let it happen. Consequently, you face the result of being sneaky.
"Really?! What the hell?? I don't even know what to say anymore..." Nami spoke to you in a softer tone. You looked up at her, knowing her face would show how disappointed she was. You looked away from her to find your clothes until the realization hit you.
Zoro had left in the midst of your ruminating. He was done with Nami's pestering and couldn't care less about arguing with her since his point wouldn't get across either way. He'll just have to deal with this whole situation tomorrow morning anyway.
That bitch.
You tried your hardest not to cry in front of Nami, especially since you were still naked. Gosh, you really did try, but you couldn't. Not when you realized that your own boyfriend didn't care about leaving you in such a vulnerable state. Not when you realized you hid your relationship from your friends because your boyfriend didn't want them to know. Not when you realized you probably just lost your best friend's trust because of a man, and you knew this could have happened.
And it did happen.
Your face scrunched up, still desperately trying to hold back your tears as your eyes began to water. It only took a few tears for you to start sobbing and attempt to apologize. But because of how awful you felt, it barely came out as a whisper.
Nami watched the scene unfold and immediately began to worry. The one thing you'll always be grateful for is how she's willing to hear you out. As friends would, arguments were bound to happen between you. And even when things got heated, she would always stay to listen to you and communicate.
"Hey," she whispered as she sat next to you, tucking a hair strand behind your ear. "Are you okay? He didn't hurt you, did he?"
"No— I don't... I don't know anymore," you choked out, wiping your face. "I'm sorry, I just— I lied to you, an- and I was supposed to tell you everything, but I lied, and I kept this secret, and I'm sorry, and you're my best friend, and I love you—"
"Hey, hey, hey, it's fine. It's fine, really," Nami reassured you, hugging you tightly. You broke down instantly, burying your face against her neck as she held you closely while rubbing your bare back.
"You know, even though I'm really mad at you for hiding something like this, you're still my friend. And I love you," she whispered to you, holding you close as the rest of the world faded away.
Somehow, this made you feel even worse. You knew what you did was wrong. And although you knew Nami was a very forgiving person, you expected her to hold a grudge and reject your apology. Yet, she was on the floor, hugging you at your most vulnerable state, both physically and mentally, as you sobbed on her neck. She didn't even care if you got snot and tears on her hair.
It didn't take long for you to compose yourself and explain the whole story to Nami as you got dressed. It felt weird that just a few minutes ago, you were having a meltdown and were unable to find the words to speak. But now, you're getting ready to leave the lookout tower and head to the women's quarters, all while talking shit about your boyfriend.
It was amusing, to say the least. Despite how awkward and terrible it must have been to catch two of your friends fucking each other, it was also now a moment you both will look back on and laugh at how ridiculous it was.
"Okay, but seriously, you need to talk to Zoro about this," Nami whispered to you, trying hard not to wake Robin up. You pursed your lips together and nodded. This whole situation wasn't entirely your fault either, and you needed your boyfriend to acknowledge his mistakes.
"I still don't understand why the hell he would want to hide our relationship though. Like, I mean, it's just us on this ship?! It wouldn't make much of a difference," you whispered back to Nami.
It had only been an hour since you had gotten back from the lookout tower. The events that had unfolded drained you, as you drifted to a deep sleep.
─ ⊹ ⊱ ⊰ ⊹ ─
The plan was simple. You woke up at five in the morning to find Zoro, who was already warming up on the deck. A simple conversation about your relationship and last night's event would be enough to get your boyfriend to understand. You walk up to him, already mentally preparing yourself.
"Zoro, we need to talk," you told him.
"If it's about what happened last night, then I don't care," he answered, not bothering to look at you as he continued his warm-ups.
His words stung as you recalled what he had said yesterday as well. It was practically the same thing. Only this time, he's speaking directly to you.
"If you don't care, then why the hell did you make our relationship private? You do know that we kept everything hidden behind our friend's back when they probably wouldn't give less than a shit about us dating," your voice raised louder than expected.
"Look, woman, I said I don't care, and that's it," Zoro emphasized the last word, already frustrated to have to start the day with an argument.
"Why do you think this doesn't matter in the slightest?!" You said, raising your arms in the air. The lump in your throat began to form, fighting back tears. "Nami catching us fucking doesn't even matter! That's not important right now! I just wanna know why the fuck you wanted our relationship to be a secret!"
"So you think this is all my fault?!" Zoro said, turning to you as he cut you off. "You also had the decision whether or not to hide our relationship. You chose to hide it."
"What?!" You yelled in utter disbelief. "What?! I respected your fucking boundaries?! I'm sorry for being a decent human fucking being!"
"When did I ever say that was my boundary?! You're being overdramatic over something that doesn't even matter!" His voice cracked when he raised his voice at you, trying his hardest not to lose his temper.
"Oh, so now I'm being overdramatic, and you're saying our relationship doesn't matter, you fucking asshole," you rolled your eyes at him, still fighting back tears so he wouldn't use them against you.
"See?! Now you're just twisting my fucking words! You see what I mean?! This wouldn't have happened in the first place if you had told me you never liked it from the start. You're only telling me this now because you have to face the consequences."
You paused for a brief moment, replaying the last sentence just to make sure you had heard that correctly. You wanted to speak to Zoro because this was wrong, and he needed to realize that hiding your guys' relationship was never right from the start. Yet, he flipped the script and placed the blame on you.
"You know what?" You said, keeping your voice deathly calm. "I'm not gonna have this conversation with you, Zoro."
He opened his mouth to defend himself, but wasn't able to get the words out of his mouth. He knows you gave up, so there was no point in arguing.
"It's obvious to me now that you never cared about this relationship. You just needed someone to fuck every now and then."
"You know that's not true," Zoro spoke up, keeping his voice stern.
"So why didn't you say anything?" You choked out, giving up on fighting back your tears, and let them fall.
Zoro had always been pretty bad at relationships, not really caring in the slightest when it came to dating, until he met you. Being with you, someone who was completely out of his league, was more than just a gift.
It was a blessing.
He tried his hardest to understand what you wanted, taking advice from both Nami and Robin without making it obvious he was in a relationship. Arguments were also prone to happen, obviously. But it was mostly just bickering that you both could get over in a few minutes.
Seeing you cry was rare. You never liked to be vulnerable and fought your hardest, which is what he loved most about you.
When he saw tears fall from your cheeks, he understood now that the argument wasn't about whose side was going to win. It also wasn't about hiding behind the crew's back, but about being honest.
It was obvious that Zoro was never good at expressing his feelings, let alone showing his love for you. He wasn't like Sanji, declaring his love for you and showering you with kisses. He was more of an 'acts of service' type of man and showed his love for you by doing small deeds.
"I can't do this anymore, not with you," the last words barely came out as a whisper as you looked away from him, breaking the deep eye contact.
Zoro wanted to say something. He desperately wanted to speak up and say something that could get you to stay. But he couldn't. He was afraid of saying the wrong thing that could make things worse after already making you cry.
You walked away and headed towards Chopper's infirmary to lock yourself away from everyone and let yourself sob until you were unable to shed any more tears. You didn't bother answering anyone either. Not when Nami asked if you were okay. Not when Sanji told you that breakfast was served. And not when Chopper asked if he could come in and set up his tools.
Nami had already figured out what had happened when she noticed you wouldn't be coming into the kitchen to eat breakfast with everyone else. It bothered her how Zoro acted the entire time he ate. He remained quiet, didn't even look up from his plate, and chugged his cup of sake to forget.
"So, Zoro," Nami spoke up from across the table. "What happened with you and your girlfriend?"
Any conversation and play-fighting that was happening was immediately put on hold. The crew paused for a brief moment to see if they had heard Nami right.
"Zoro has a girlfriend?!" Luffy stood up on the table as he yelled. "Hey Zoro, why didn't you tell us?! Where is she?! Is she hiding?!" He got down from the table to look under.
"Zoro?! Girlfriend?!" Sanji spat out.
"It's quite amusing to see Zoro get a girlfriend before Sanji," Brook said as he drank his tea. Robin, who sat beside him, hummed in agreement as she smirked.
"Well?" Nami asked again, her voice becoming more stern as she waited for an answer. Zoro kept his eye on his plate, staring so harshly at it that you would think he was trying to move it with his mind.
"Zoro," Nami called out to him. The crew remained silent, already knowing that if anyone but Zoro spoke up, they would be met with her fist. "If you won't say anything, I'll tell them."
He clenched his fist that held the bottle of sake, his knuckles becoming completely white. To be put on the spot about something like this humiliated him to death.
"How can you sit there and not say anything?!" Nami yelled. "She locked herself in Chopper's infirmary. Do you not understand how big of an insensitive idiot you are?!"
By this time, the crew had already figured out who Nami was referring to. Yet, they chose to be silent since they knew better than to get in the way of Nami's scolding.
"I can't believe it took you this long to understand your mistakes," Nami excused herself from the table and left, not wanting to deal with her idiotic crewmate again.
Everyone else also excused themselves, explaining how they had forgotten something and needed to leave immediately.
Zoro didn't even bother to look up from his plate ever since he sat down. He had no interest in speaking to anybody when his words hurt the person he loved most.
"We all know you'd be pretty bad at having a girlfriend," Robin spoke up. She was the only one who had stayed to finish her cup of tea.
"Wow, thanks," Zoro sarcastically answered as he scoffed at her comment.
"But," she said, "we also know that you'd never back down from a fight."
"Meaning?" Zoro asked as he shifted his eyes from his plate to Robin, recognizing that she was giving him simple words of advice.
"Meaning that you would never give up on her," Robin placed down her cup, finally finishing her last sip of tea. Zoro watches her walk away to the exit as he reflects on the argument, thinking about what you had argued about wanting.
"We all know you didn't mean any harm," Robin said, holding the door. "I think maybe this time, she needs to hear you say 'I love you' instead."
The minute Robin walked out of the kitchen, Zoro turned around behind him, staring intensely at the door that led to Chopper's infirmary. You were right there, behind that door. And all he had to do was knock on it and apologize. So why was it so difficult? It was easier said than done, considering that he's never been in an argument like this before.
Zoro stood in front of the door, realizing you had probably already heard what Nami yelled at him for. He took a deep breath and carefully knocked on the door.
"Y/n?" He said, hoping to get a response from you. It was quiet on the other end, which he had expected. Zoro glanced at the door handle, wanting to come inside and face you himself to show how truly sorry he was. But he knew you needed your space and shouldn't be violating your privacy just to prove something.
"I'm not really sure if you heard what that damn woman yelled at me for," he paused for a second, trying to find the words before speaking. "But, she was right. I am an idiot. An insensitive, selfish idiot."
Zoro rested his head on the door, trying to imagine what you were doing on the other side. He swallowed the lump in his throat before speaking up again.
"I'm sorry, Y/n," he said. "I know that I wasn't a good boyfriend, and I shouldn't have said those things to you, as well as make you hide our relationship."
Zoro's lip curved into a soft smile, "I guess I was just embarrassed that you would date a guy like me. Especially since that stupid cook would've been on my ass for every little thing I did for you. I also don't want him being all extra for you just so that he could piss me off."
For once, he was glad he was able to say what he wanted. Zoro felt as if he had his heart in his mouth when thinking about what he had to say to you. Not because he had to set his pride and ego aside, but because he really didn't want to hurt you again. One time was already too much.
Zoro's breath ragged when he heard the doorknob turning. You slowly opened the door to reveal yourself to him. It had only been five hours since you spent in that room crying all alone. Yet, you looked as if you had spent days in there, begging to be let out. Your eyes were droopy and red from all the crying. Your cheeks were cold and slightly wet, while your lips were chapped.
The thought of your boyfriend looking at you in your most vulnerable state didn't cross your mind. The only thing you could think about was him. Did he really mean what he said? Or was this just his way of attempting to get you out of the infirmary?
"Do you really mean that?" You quietly asked him, as your voice croaked.
"Obviously," he said, holding your cold cheek and caressing it with his thumb. You leaned into his touch and gazed into his eyes.
For a moment, neither of you spoke. You didn't need to either way. Just locking eyes, deep into each other, was enough.
Zoro closed the space between you two and brought you closer to him, hugging you tightly that he was practically squeezing you. You didn't mind it though. Instead, you held his neck, hugging him back and letting the warm embrace tighten.
"I love you," he whispered to you.
"I love you too, mosshead," you replied, not bothering to hide your giggling.
"Huh?!" Zoro broke the hug, holding on to your shoulders instead. "What did you just call me?"
"Whaat, you don't like my new favorite nickname?" You teased.
"No?! Why the hell would you even call me that!" He barked. Zoro admired you, who was a complete laughing mess. Consequently, he smirked at the idea he had in mind for you.
He turned you around, dug inside your pants, and harshly pulled on your panties. Before you could even yell out his name in disbelief, he was already running out the door, laughing at himself for what he had just done.
When Zoro came out of the kitchen, slamming the door open, the crew looked at him in bewilderment. He ran down the stairs while laughing, which they didn't expect to see after the scolding Nami had given him. They didn't understand why he would be laughing until you came out as well, smiling ear to ear.
You chased after your boyfriend, and to your luck, he had tripped over poor Chopper.
"No, no, no, wait, wait, wait!" He yelled as he looked behind his shoulder, seeing your smile widen. You jumped to sit on top of him, dug into his pants, and pulled his boxers hard enough that you placed the waistband on top of his eyes.
Luffy's eyes widened, "Are we playing a game?! I wanna play too!" He yelled, turning over to Usopp, who was fishing. Luffy dug into Usopp's pants, earning a yelp from him, and pulled on his boxers, also placing the waistband over his eyes.
It was certainly weird that just a few moments ago, you felt like the world had betrayed you. Not wanting to leave the room you had locked yourself in, wanting to rot and never do anything ever again. And now, you were running around the deck with your crew, giving each other wedgies. Life undoubtedly knows how to make you feel so deeply and reflect on different moments in your life. Yet, that's what you loved most about it.
When it came to your boyfriend, he would never break a promise. Ever since he had apologized, he really did try to focus deeply on the problem instead of rushing to defend himself. As for showing you off? He did just that.
Whenever you saw him on the deck, whether it was him training or sleeping, he needed you to shower him in kisses. He wouldn't even be bothered by it. In fact, he would start flexing the amount of love you had given him, and showing off to Sanji about how his beautiful girlfriend was caressing him with love.
He came to realize how he preferred you showing affection to him publicly. And although it would make him fluster and he wouldn't reciprocate at times, he still loved it.
Pairing: Roronoa Zoro x Fem!Reader (No use of y/n)
Summary: Zoro catches you cleaning and talking to his swords when you think he's not watching and his heart skips a beat. But, he's not the only one who likes it. One of his swords- his cursed blade- is becoming a bit more fond of you than it ought to be.
CW: None
Word Count: 1.1k
Part One: Swords & Sweethearts [YOU ARE HERE]
Part Two: Unsheathed
Part Three: Mettle of a Man
One Piece Masterlist
Zoro Masterlist
➽──────────────❥
“…well, you know how he is- always getting up to something.” Hushed and low, Zoro could hear your voice pull him out of deep slumber. Before he even opens his eye, he lets your presence settle over his aching body. “I don’t have to tell you how stubborn he is.” Not feeling the presence of anyone else, he frowns- cracking his eye to see who you're talking to.
Zoro’s heart skips more than a single beat. “I just worry about him,” you speak gently down to your lap, Wado Ichimonj in your hands as you gently wipe it clean. Eyes squinting as you lift the blade tenderly to check your work. “So I need you to keep taking good care of him, okay?” Satisfied, you cautiously slide it home in the sheath, fingers soothing over it. “There, feel better?”
Staying quiet, unwilling to interrupt the moment, Zoro simply watches. “And you,” you sigh, pulling Kitetsu into your lap, “your turn, troublemaker.” Your finger taps pointedly against the sheath, “behave now, please.” Zoro swears he can hear a hum just beneath the ring as you pull the blade.
That was the first time you ever cleaned his swords for him. Though, it wasn’t the first time he’d entrusted them to your care. He had explained it to you before and you watched him do it so many times, you were confident you could. At least well enough until Zoro woke up. He’d overexerted himself in that last fight and had been in unconscious recovery, but it snagged your heart to leave his blades waiting and filthy. So you took matters into your own hands, hoping Zoro wouldn’t be too bothered by it- given the circumstances.
But, Zoro was bothered. Watching you tend his swords- tend to the extensions of himself that exist beyond his own body. More than that, you spoke to them and the words reached out and settled in his own soul. His heart felt so full he thought it might burst through the cage of his ribs.
Zoro was beautifully, painfully, wonderfully- bothered.
Time passed and he recovered and the days were easy on the Sunny. When it came time to tend his blades again, he wanted you to do it- wanted to watch the way you interact with them. But, he wasn’t sure how to ask that of you or how to explain the way it makes him feel. While he’d thanked you for taking care of them that day, he hadn’t let you know he’d been awake and silently observing.
Zoro sat down next to you on the deck where you leaned against the rail, sipping a drink Sanji had made for you while serving as the official judge to Luffy and Usopp’s fishing competition. Turning, you give him a bright smile- the way you always do, “Zoro!”
“Hey,” he answers, a slight blush to the tips of his ears he blames on the sun. “Will you hold this?”
Sitting down your drink, you smooth your hands down the thin linen of your flowing dress. “Oh, sure!” Zoro watches you take Wado into your arms, resting it gently across your body and just the sight of it nearly steals his breath. Absentmindedly, your fingers pet over the sheath as you turn to give the fishermen this round’s ruling.
Zoro places the cleaning kit on the ground between you- his grip on Kitetsu far more firm than yours had been. Enma patiently waits on his other side, always last in line and quite fine with that arrangement.
When Zoro goes to unsheathe Kitetsu, his expression immediately turns, eye glaring down at the sword. The blade gives him some resistance, not so easily allowing itself to be drawn. It’s not terribly unusual for his cursed blade to test him, but that typically manifested in its bloodlust. This felt different- more stubborn, more petty.
Zoro tugged pointedly at the sheath again, willing it to loosen. With his strength he could force it, but that would ultimately get him nowhere- a lesson he’s learned well over the years. Letting a bit of his own power seep through his palms, he issues a silent warning to the cursed sword, willing it to submit.
As if you could sense the struggle, you turn your attention to Zoro, noting his stern expression. “Uh oh,” you sigh, leaning over his lap and joining in attention. Zoro’s brow twitches when he feels a shift in the sword as you look down at it. “Someone’s being a troublemaker,” it thrums in his hand at the sound of your voice. “Like always, hm?” You tap the hilt, “what’s the matter?”
Zoro scoffs, “just being stubborn,” he answers for it. “Cabin fever, probably,” he mutters. It’s been a while since the ship has stopped anywhere and Kitetsu could get antsy when it hasn’t cut anything in a while.
“Not for much longer,” you promise. “Nami says we’ll hit an island in the next couple days.” Pointedly, you tap the hilt again, “you want to be ready for it, don’t you?”
Kitetsu hums a little in his hands and releases only a little bit of its length. Zoro’s brow furrows, his head tilting as he notes the feeling- something unusual from his most troublesome sword. It feels… playful. But, not for him. And not violently in the way it sometimes would.
Zoro’s not sure if you can feel it, but your fingers wrap around the hilt, “Kitetsu~” you coo, stroking over its ridges. “Won’t you please be good?” even Zoro blushes at the way your hand drags all the way to the tsuba, thumb tracing the golden metal. “Just for a little bit- for me?”
The sheath shoots off in one quick motion and your smile delights at Zoro, a little laugh on your lips. “I think he’s learning manners, try asking him nicely next time.”
Your eyes flit back down, voice lilting, “thank you, Kitetsu~” you give a grateful squeeze around the hilt and it jolts through Zoro as if your hand had wrapped around his own body. Kitetsu downright purrs, the vibration of it, curling up Zoro’s arms.
Only when you pull away and settle back into your spot does it stop. A sharper, more dissatisfied buzzing spreading through his fingers. Zoro’s eye flits between you and Kitetsu.
Oh, he realizes, this is going to be a problem.
He tightens a more unforgiving grip around the sword, quietly cleaning it himself. When he finishes and takes Wado from your hands, he doesn't give you Kitetsu- instead, laying it on the ground to his other side, separated from you.
Menacingly, it’s aura lashes out at him. Zoro glares down in reprimand, suffocating Kitetsu with his own haki- driving precisely into the blade until it quiets.
Yeah, he sighs, eye sliding over to your shining figure next him- laughing in the sunshine, so oblivious of the war waging for dominance right beside you.
This is going to be a real problem.
➽──────────────❥
Part One: Swords & Sweethearts [YOU ARE HERE]
Summary: Zoro has never been good with words, so when your birthday arrives, he decides to show his love the only way he knows how.
Word count: about 7300
Contains: tooth rotting fluff, romance, established relationship, light humor, gift giving, kissing, lots of lovesick Zoro, flustered Zoro, protective Zoro, soft Zoro, thoughtful Zoro, birthday themes, wishes (mainly his).
Warning: fem!reader, mention of y\n a times, summer birthday
Author's note: I got a little carried away with this one. 😅 Consider this your warning: it's very long, very sugary, and absolutely overflowing with enough fluff to rot your teeth.
This is a birthday special I wrote as a gift for myself, but I figured I'd share the sugar rush with all of you too. So here it is—a shameless indulgence in soft moments, ridiculous amounts of affection, and enough sweetness to last a lifetime.
Enjoy the fluff, and thank you, as always, for reading. 💕
He watched you from the corner of his eye, captivated for a moment by the effortless grace in the way you moved, by your infectious laughter, by the kindness that seemed to come as naturally to you as breathing.
You were crouched beside Luffy, patiently trying to untangle the knot he'd somehow tied his own tongue into while attempting to prove some ridiculous point to Usopp—probably how many times he could wrap it around a post before spinning like a top. Chopper hovered nearby in complete panic.
No one else had the patience to deal with the seventeenth crisis your captain had created for himself that day.
Except you.
The golden hour draped sunlight over your hair, painting every loose strand with molten gold. Even from where he stood, Zoro could see the warm glow resting against your cheeks and catching on your lashes, as though the sun itself had decided you deserved its full attention.
You were beautiful.
More beautiful than he could ever hope to put into words. Not just because he wasn’t good with them. Though, admittedly, he wasn’t. At least not in the way people expected a man in love to be.
No. He just considered it impossible. Some things simply couldn't be translated into language.
Besides, words seemed... unnecessary.
Why would he need sweet, honey-coated lines like Sanji used? That damned cook fluttered around every woman unfortunate enough to wander into his line of sight.
Zoro had always believed love was something private. Something that revealed itself through actions instead of speeches.
Curly Brows would probably lose his mind if he ever heard what Zoro considered romantic:
Keeping your blades razor sharp.
Saving you a place beside him whenever he sat down.
Letting you rest against his shoulder during naps.
Sharing food. Sharing drinks.
He'd even let you use Wado Ichimonji—his most treasured sword—when the two of you trained together, trusting you enough to place it in your hands.
During every fight, he'd instinctively move toward your side, and the moment the battle ended, he'd look for you before anyone else.
If you were cold, you'd have his haramaki without hesitation. His jacket too, on the rare occasions he actually wore one.
And perhaps the greatest proof of affection he could offer: he let you tend to his injuries, even before Chopper.
That had to mean something.
At least... he hoped you knew it did.
There wasn't another soul alive with whom he'd willingly eat from the same plate, stealing bites from each other between quiet conversations.
There wasn’t another person he’d happily sit beside in comfortable silence for hours. The kind that somehow filled every empty space inside him.
You were the only person allowed to interrupt his training whenever you pleased.
You could even force him to take a bath.
In fact, Nami had realized something was seriously wrong several months before you started dating, when Zoro suddenly began bathing more regularly. He’d even asked her for money to buy deodorant and cologne at the next port.
If the two of you were going to spend so much time together, he wanted you to feel comfortable around him.
He told himself not to stare.
Not because he didn't want to, but because every glance made it harder to remember there was a world beyond you.
Looking away should have helped.
Instead, he carried your image with him all the same.
Now that the two of you had been together for a little while—not very long, but long enough—he wanted to express his feelings a little better.
The perfect opportunity presented itself when he overheard that the next few islands on your route would all be celebrating the beginning of summer with festivals.
For days he'd wrestled with the idea, trying to figure out how to make everything work.
Then he remembered a conversation he'd never admit to eavesdropping on, back when all of you were still relatively new crewmates.
It had been near the end of summer.
The Going Merry had docked at a lively little town celebrating its annual festival, overflowing with paper lanterns, music drifting through every street, food stalls packed shoulder to shoulder, and carnival games lining the square.
The day had been chaotic, as most days with the Straw Hats tended to be.
But also surprisingly peaceful.
No life-threatening disasters.
No Marines.
No bounty hunters.
Just your crew causing their own brand of mayhem, as per usual.
Luffy somehow managed to eat what looked like half the festival's food supply.
Usopp insisted on trying every carnival game he could find, losing each one with spectacular consistency while loudly claiming every booth was rigged.
Sanji disappeared within the first ten seconds, sprinting across town to flirt with every woman he passed, buying them snacks, winning stuffed animals for complete strangers and generally making a fool of himself.
Nami convinced you to browse the market stalls overflowing with pretty little trinkets—hairpins, ribbons, charms, and handcrafted jewelry.
Meanwhile, Zoro declared festivals "too damn noisy" and wandered a few paces behind everyone else.
Though somehow he always remained close enough to step in if trouble appeared.
By the time darkness settled over the sea and everyone returned to the Merry, the crew was completely exhausted.
Luffy and Usopp had collapsed almost immediately, completely worn out after burning through every ounce of energy they possessed.
Sanji stood in the galley washing dishes.
Zoro rested against the main mast, arms folded across his chest, eyes closed.
Or at least they appeared closed.
You and Nami sat near the railing with your legs dangling over the edge, listening to the waves in comfortable silence.
Then Nami glanced your way.
“You looked like you were having fun today.”
You smiled.
"More than I expected."
"I would've guessed festivals were your thing."
A soft laugh escaped you.
"Actually... I've only ever been to one. Maybe two. When I was a kid"
Nami turned toward you.
"Really? You seem exactly like the kind of person who’d love summer festivals."
You looked out over the moonlit sea.
"I don't dislike them... I just never really had the chance."
Your voice softened with nostalgia.
"I remember going on the first day of summer. It was my birthday, so after the celebration and family lunch they took me to the festival."
You smiled faintly.
"I don't remember many details. Just the feeling of it. The lanterns and all those lights. It felt magical. As if the sky had filled with fireflies and somehow come down to meet the earth."
For a moment, you seemed far away. Wrapped in memories.
Then you smiled and nudged Nami lightly.
"What about you? Summer festivals or winter ones?"
And just like that, the conversation shifted.
The two of you spent the next hour sharing stories, jokes, and memories while the ship rocked gently beneath the stars.
Throughout all of it, Zoro never opened his eyes, but he heard every single word.
Without realizing it, the first day of summer lodged itself somewhere deep in his mind.
Like a mark carved into stone.
He had no idea how important that memory would become almost a year later.
He had absolutely no intention of involving the rest of the crew.
They were far too loud.
Too chaotic.
Too likely to ruin everything.
Sanji would go completely overboard and somehow turn the entire day into a five-star romantic spectacle. The damned curly-brow would probably smother you under flowers, gourmet meals, and enough dramatic declarations to last a lifetime.
Luffy would eat all the food, including the cake.
The girls would steal you away for half the day.
Chopper, your greatest weakness and everyone’s favorite little reindeer, would have you cooing over him within minutes.
And Usopp… He would spend hours telling increasingly ridiculous stories until sunset.
No.
This wasn’t supposed to be everyone’s celebration.
It was supposed to be yours. Your day.
And his.
Preferably every year from now until the end of time.
The thought made his ears warm.
Tch.
Ignoring that entirely, Zoro decided he would put together something that would make you smile.
Something that would show you he could be thoughtful. Romantic, even.
Though he’d rather swallow one of his swords than admit that part out loud.
For weeks, the human seaweed prepared himself mentally.
Ideas drifted endlessly through his mind as he worked through countless squats, push-ups, and sit-ups, while he drank sake or pretended to nap.
Perhaps you would enjoy spending some time in a bookstore, even though he knew next to nothing about books. Or maybe the beach. A cliff overlooking the sea. A meadow in bloom. The summer festival. A good restaurant.
The problem was that he wasn't an expert in any of those things, so, with a reluctance he would never admit aloud, he found himself listening in on conversations between his crewmates and even complete strangers in the street, hoping that someone might unknowingly offer the kind of suggestion he was searching for.
Unfortunately, he was still limited by two major problems.
The first was that he had no idea what the next island would look like.
The second was that he was Roronoa Zoro.
Navigation wasn’t exactly his strongest skill.
Why is this so damn difficult?
I know her better than I know myself.
So how am I struggling this much over something this simple?
Yet Zoro approached the whole endeavor with the same quiet determination he had devoted to every promise he had ever made.
That he would become the greatest swordsman in the world.
That he would help his captain become the King of the Pirates.
And the promise he had never spoken aloud, yet carried just as seriously as the others: to remain by your side and do everything in his power to make you happy.
You had woken before dawn.
After quietly getting ready, you slipped out onto the deck to watch the sunrise.
Another year gone.
The horizon shifted faster than seemed possible, bleeding from crimson into gold, then soft pinks and violets before finally surrendering to blue. The colors melted into the sea until sky and water became impossible to separate. A cool breeze drifted across the deck, making you wish you’d thought to bring something warmer.
No sunrise was ever quite the same.
Suddenly, strong arms slipped around you from behind, warmth replacing the morning chill almost instantly.
“Out here before sunrise again.” Zoro rested his chin on top of your head. “Trying to get sick?”
His chin settled lightly on top of your head.
You smiled and leaned back into him, gently wrapping your hands around his forearms.
“You’re the last person who gets to lecture me. I’ve seen you walk around shirtless during snowstorms.”
A quiet snort escaped him.
“That’s different.”
“Oh?”
"I train for that."
You rolled your eyes.
After a brief silence, he grew thoughtful and then spoke again.
"We'll be docking soon."
You glanced up.
“Hm?”
“Get ready.” He paused. “We’re heading into town. Need supplies.”
That earned an immediate look.
It wasn't exactly unusual for people to restock when they reached an island.
But hearing Zoro volunteer so eagerly to help stock the ship… That was definitely new.
“What?”
“Nothing.”
The grin spreading across your face suggested otherwise.
"It’s just... I can’t help but wonder what possessed Nami and Sanji to send you on the supply run"
His eyebrow twitched.
“You don’t exactly radiate competence when it comes to finding your way anywhere,” you continued sweetly. “But I’m sure you’ll return with everything we need.”
A beat.
“Eventually.”
Zoro groaned.
You were impossible.
A pretty little menace.
You laughed as he lightly knocked his shoulder against yours before pulling you closer again.
His ears were already burning.
“Just go get ready.”
When you stepped back onto the deck a little while later, Zoro forgot how to breathe.
A pale green summer dress flowed around your legs, scattered with flowers that deepened in color toward the hem. The fitted waist emphasized your figure, while your loose hair danced in the morning breeze, carrying the familiar scent of your perfume with it.
You looked beautiful.
For the second time that morning, the Straw Hats’ swordsman felt heat flood his face.
Unfortunately, he wasn’t the only one who noticed.
A strangled noise erupted from across the deck.
“My loooooove!”
Sanji collapsed to his knees almost immediately.
Then, as if propelled by forces beyond mortal understanding, began floating toward you with hearts in his eyes and blood pouring from his nose.
“Heaven has blessed this ship!”
The next thing anyone heard was the unmistakable sound of Zoro’s fist connecting with his skull.
“Shut up.”
Then it was your turn to stare, blinking a few times just to make sure you weren’t seeing things.
Instead of his usual white shirt, haramaki, black trousers and boots, Zoro stood before you wearing dark jeans, a striped button-up shirt and, somehow even more shocking, actual shoes.
You walked up to him with a grin that stretched from ear to ear and wrapped both hands around his arm, openly admiring him.
“…Zoro.”
“Tch,” he grumbled, already flustered under your gaze.
“You look so handsome!” you exclaimed, staring at him openly, which did absolutely nothing to improve his current predicament. If anything, it seemed as though a flame had started climbing up his neck, swallowing his ears in its wake.
"...Tch."
"I mean it."
"Knock it off," his voice sounded strained.
You only smiled wider. Instead of listening, you stepped even closer until barely any space remained between you.
The fresh scent of citrus and clean white musk reached you. You leaned toward his neck, breathing it in for a moment.
His entire body froze.
"...Oi, what are you doing?"
Looking deep into his eyes, you gently brushed your lips against his cheek, then the corner of his mouth.
"I'm admiring my handsome boyfriend."
He cleared his throat. His heart felt ready to leap from his chest and sink straight to the bottom of the sea.
The swordsman then mumbled something incoherent, some secret Zoro language of which the two of you were the only fluent speakers.
"Quit talking nonsense," he muttered, "My haramaki needed washing, so... I just threw this on."
You couldn't help laughing softly.
It was such a painfully Zoro explanation.
Looking away, he took your hand gently, so gently that no one would have expected it from the green-haired brute. Then he looked at you again, something so sincere and delicate flickering behind his eyes. His thumb brushed across your knuckles before he lifted your hand and pressed a kiss against your shoulder.
“You look beautiful.”
The words came out quieter than usual.
Then, before you could recover enough to tease him, he averted his gaze once more and hurriedly tugged you along toward the gangplank, leaving behind a crowd of thoroughly entertained crewmates.
The tips of his ears still burned with heat the entire way.
The first place he took you was a small café near the harbor.
This came to the immense outrage of your cook, who had immediately launched into a tirade about your marimo neglecting and mistreating a lady after deciding the two of you should leave the ship as quickly as possible, before even touching the carefully prepared breakfast and coffee.
He sat with you, doing his best not to order sake first thing in the morning out of sheer nervousness.
You picked your favorite meal and a cup of coffee, contentedly taking in the little town from the outdoor seating area and enjoying the breeze drifting in from the nearby sea.
Zoro watched you, warmth filling his chest.
He hoped there would be many more mornings like this by your side.
Then he surveyed the shops around you. Hopefully there would be some of your favorites nearby. Bookstores. Clothing boutiques. Accessory shops. Ice cream parlors…
After you’d finally convinced him to try a bite of your sweet croissant, then brushed the crumbs from his chin and shirt, your fingers accidentally grazing your boyfriend’s muscular chest, already prickling with goosebumps, the two of you continued your walk.
“So,” you asked your swordsman, teasing him a little, “are we finally going to buy those incredibly urgent supplies?”
“Tch.”
He simply tugged you along in the direction he believed a bookstore might be.
Unfortunately, there seemed to be no end to the walking. After ending up in several dead ends, the two of you eventually passed a shop displaying a beautiful, flowing summer dress in its window.
You stopped to admire it.
Zoro noticed immediately.
"Let's go in."
"Hm?"
"Try it on."
You looked at him in surprise.
Shopping ranked somewhere below getting stabbed on his list of favorite activities, and you didn’t want to subject him to your endless outfit changes, indecisiveness, and the general chaos of the entire process.
"No, no, it’s fine," you said quickly. "I already own too many clothes."
He stared at you for a second before placing both hands on your shoulders and steering you toward the entrance.
“Yeah, right,” he snorted. “I don’t wanna hear any of that. Get in there.”
Then he opened the door.
"Inside."
You couldn't help laughing.
An hour later, the brave swordsman had survived approximately seventeen dresses, six skirts, several pairs of trousers and more indecision than any battlefield had ever thrown at him.
Each time you emerged from the changing room, he’d glance up and offer one of approximately three responses.
“It’s good.”
Or:
“Hn.”
Occasionally:
“Looks nice.”
Eventually, you folded your arms in annoyance.
"You're not even looking."
"I am."
"No, you're saying the same thing every time."
"...Because you look good in all of them."
The words slipped out before he could stop them and his ears immediately turned bright red.
"...Forget I said that."
Instead, you walked over, stood on your toes, and kissed him.
"I won't."
You even managed to force him into trying on a few shirts and pairs of pants himself.
Some items you selected without even making him try them, knowing that fitting clothes ranked somewhere between torture and undergoing surgery without anesthesia in Zoro’s personal hierarchy of suffering.
By the time you disappeared into the changing room to put your own clothes back on, your swordsman had already purchased everything you’d spent the longest looking at.
Including the dress from the window.
You emerged carrying your things only to discover several bags already waiting.
Your jaw dropped.
Zoro was always broke.
“…You bought them?”
“Yeah.”
“But that’s too much.”
You were already reaching for your money when he fixed you with a firm look.
“Put that away.”
“Zoro—”
“I wanted to.”
The certainty in his voice left little room for argument.
Confused, you immediately began calculating the astronomical interest rates Nami would inevitably charge him. Thankfully, you had long ago escaped her financial traps by learning to negotiate and extort with the same terrifying efficiency as the navigator herself.
“I’ve got my own stash,” he said.
He absolutely did not.
Did he?
Where would someone so utterly uninterested in money and worldly possessions, outside of fighting, sake and, perhaps—you dared to think—you, even find the motivation to save?
As though you weren’t confused enough already, he took your hand and gently pressed a kiss to your fingers.
“Come on. Let’s keep going.”
Then he turned away.
“What a lovely couple,” the shopkeeper sighed.
Zoro heard it.
His shoulders immediately stiffened, and he grumbled something embarrassed under his breath.
You exited a moment after him, having quickly purchased a few things for your boyfriend that you’d intended to buy from the moment you’d entered the store.
“And something for my strong boyfriend.”
Before he could react, you kissed him on the lips.
For what was certainly not the first time today, and definitely not the last, he blushed.
His brain immediately stopped functioning.
Then he started protesting.
This was your day.
He was supposed to be spoiling you.
Not the other way around.
As the two of you continued down the street, Zoro silently resolved that before the day was over, everything would go exactly as he’d planned.
And he would make it perfect.
After several more hours of wandering, getting lost, accidentally finding the bookstore, discovering a tea shop you immediately fell in love with, and rescuing an alarming number of animals, the two of you eventually came across a beautiful overlook.
The day was scorching.
Despite the fans, sunglasses, and constant searches for shade, the heat and sun had become unbearable.
Zoro spotted the ice cream stand first.
By now, he knew you were one of the biggest sweet tooths he’d ever met, especially when it came to this particular summer treat. Without a word, he disappeared into the line and returned carrying a cone stacked with five different scoops, each one a flavor he knew you loved.
Knowing you’d insist that he get something too, despite not being much of a dessert person himself, he’d picked a few citrusy and milder flavors for his own cone.
A few moments later, realizing your green-haired idiot had vanished somewhere, panic immediately set in. You turned in a slow circle, already wondering whether you’d have to spend the rest of the afternoon tracking him down.
Only on your final turn did you find him standing directly in front of you, holding out a cone filled with cold, sweet salvation.
You sighed dramatically with relief.
“My hero! My angel! Exactly what I needed to save me and bring me back from the dead in this heat.”
Once again, your words completely flustered him.
“Tch. You really do say whatever comes into your head.”
Placing a hand on the small of your back, he guided you toward a nearby bench beneath a tree. It sat in the perfect patch of shade at the overlook, giving you a wonderful view of the charming town spread out below.
Out of the corner of his eye, he watched you happily work through your mountain of ice cream.
Your hand had found his without either of you thinking about it. And your fingers absentmindedly traced invisible patterns across his palm, gliding over the hardened calluses that years of swordsmanship had left behind.
“You know your ice cream’s gonna melt if you spend all your time staring at me” you teased.
His ears immediately turned the color of paprika.
Without warning, he scooped a bit of ice cream from his own cone and dabbed it onto the tip of your nose.
“Hey!”
Before you could retaliate, he leaned closer.
One arm settled against the back of the bench behind you.
Then, in a move so uncharacteristically smooth it nearly short-circuited your brain, he closed the remaining distance and kissed the ice cream off your nose.
You froze.
Completely.
“Wh-what got into you all of a sudden?” you stammered, still trying to recover.
All he did was smile to himself, looking entirely too pleased with the effect he’d had on you, before returning to his cone.
Naturally, a few seconds later you dragged him into a battle to determine which of you could embarrass the other more.
Later, while browsing a stall filled with fragrant oils, perfumes, colognes, and scented waters, Zoro seized the opportunity and quietly slipped away to a few nearby shops to prepare another part of his surprise.
After sampling countless scents, you eventually chose a few for yourself, along with some for Nami and Robin after remembering they’d mentioned needing to restock.
Then you found one that reminded you of your boyfriend.
It smelled like earth after rain, fresh cedar, a hint of hinoki, and something clean, steady, and grounding.
Like him.
You were still considering it when a young boy approached, blushing furiously and staring somewhere around your shoulder rather than directly at you.
“You’re very pretty, miss,” he mumbled, holding out a flower. “This is for you.”
Your smile softened immediately.
“That’s so sweet of you. Thank you very much.”
Touched by the gesture, you accepted the flower and pressed a kiss to his cheek.
The poor child nearly launched himself back into the shop where he was apparently helping his parents.
The grumpy swordsman appeared at your side just in time to witness the entire thing.
The brat’s interfering with my day with Y/N.
He could have sworn he caught the little pest sneaking a victorious grin at him from behind the counter.
“Tch.”
The familiar click of his tongue echoed from somewhere between his teeth and sheer annoyance.
Sliding an arm around your waist, he pulled you closer and pressed a kiss to your forehead.
“Come on. Stop dawdling.”
As you followed him down the street, Zoro shot one last smug glance toward the shop.
Score settled.
After what felt like hours of aimless wandering through unfamiliar streets, gradually leaving the heart of the bustling town behind, accompanied by easy conversation, playful nudges, and long stretches of comfortable silence, the two of you finally came to a stop.
You had noticed the shopping bags in Zoro’s hands long ago, and some of them certainly hadn’t been there that morning. Every now and then your eyes drifted toward them, curiosity threatening to escape your lips, only for you to bite it back.
If he wanted you to know, he’d tell you. Until then, pretending not to notice somehow felt kinder.
The sounds of the festival slowly faded behind you, replaced by little more than birdsong and the whisper of wind through the trees. You had asked him twice where exactly he was taking you.
The first time he’d answered with an absent-minded grunt.
The second, he’d glanced over his shoulder, the faintest smile touching his lips.
“Almost there.”
Then the path opened before you.
Your steps faltered.
Rows upon rows of ancient wisteria trees stretched across the hillside, their sweeping branches draped in cascading curtains of violet blossoms. The afternoon breeze stirred them gently, sending petals drifting lazily through the air.
Beneath them, an endless meadow of wildflowers swayed in the golden light. The entire landscape looked almost unreal.
“…Zoro.”
He wasn’t looking at the view.
He was watching you.
Good.
That expression alone made every awkward question he’d asked the locals worth it.
For a long moment neither of you moved. The breeze carried the scent of blossoms between you.
Finally, Zoro shifted the bags onto one shoulder.
“…Stay here for a minute.”
Before you could ask what he meant, he disappeared beneath the hanging wisteria branches.
You watched him kneel in the grass and begin unpacking the bags you’d been pretending not to notice all afternoon.
Carefully, he spread a blanket across the ground.
Fresh pastries, fruit, meats, and little appetizers filled the blanket, along with your favorite drinks. For you, he’d chosen a carefully selected sweet fruit wine. For himself, he opened a bottle of sake.
Only after arranging everything exactly the way he wanted did he look back at you.
“…Come here.”
He held out a hand and carefully helped you lower yourself onto the blanket before sitting down beside you.
“…You put all of this together yourself?” you asked.
Your eyes shone, and the smile on your face was the kind that appeared when you weren’t even aware you were smiling, when happiness had simply become too great to hide and spilled onto your features all on its own.
A faint blush crept across his cheeks.
He cleared his throat.
“Well… I definitely didn’t make the food myself.”
You moved even closer, wrapping your arms around him.
Compared to him, your frame felt so small and soft, fitting against him as though you had always belonged there.
His favorite feeling.
“What was all this for?” you asked quietly.
“’Cause I wanted to.”
Zoro looked into your eyes. Those eyes he could never quite stop looking at.
The backs of his fingers brushed your cheek before tracing gently across your lips.
“I just wanted to.”
The answer hit harder than any grand declaration ever could.
Overcome by affection and happiness, you tightened your embrace and sent both of you tumbling backward into the grass.
“…Hn!”
Nestling your face against his neck, you squeezed him tighter.
Then you lifted your head and began peppering him with kisses.
“You’re wonderful!”
A kiss landed on one warm cheek.
Then the other.
His eyebrows pulled together in surprise and mock annoyance as you continued.
Beneath his eyes.
Across his eyelids.
His forehead.
His chin.
Finally, you paused just above his lips.
“I love you so much.”
The words were little more than a whisper. Then you kissed him, pouring every feeling you couldn’t properly express into the gesture.
His arms immediately found your waist. Sometimes they slid down your arms instead, his rough hands stroking your skin in slow, absent-minded motions.
For a moment he simply held you there.
Then he shifted and rolled the two of you over until you were the one pinned gently beneath him.
Before claiming your lips again, he leaned down and pressed a kiss against your neck.
He knew exactly how ticklish you were.
The resulting laugh burst from your throat immediately as you squirmed and shoved at his shoulders.
“Zoro!”
Satisfied with his small act of revenge, he finally relented.
His lips hovered just above yours.
“I love you more.”
And then he kissed you again.
When you finally pulled apart, both of you a little breathless, Zoro muttered something about eating before all the food and drinks got warm.
Reluctantly, you sat back up.
You attempted to smooth out your dress and fix your hair.
Without comment, Zoro reached over and removed a stray flower and several blades of grass from it.
The day already felt perfect.
More perfect than you’d thought possible.
Later, after you’d both eaten your fill and settled into the peaceful atmosphere, Zoro sat quietly drinking sake and watching you while you carefully wove a flower crown.
Once it was finished, you proudly placed atop his head.
He looked less than thrilled.
Or at least he would never admit otherwise.
Yet he didn’t take it off.
After finishing his sake, he decided to make one for you as well.
His fingers, so skilled with swords, proved considerably less talented when it came to flower crowns. Despite choosing the prettiest blossoms he could find and concentrating harder than he’d care to admit, the thing stubbornly refused to look the way he’d imagined.
You, meanwhile, were completely charmed.
Smiling.
Flattered.
Hopelessly in love with this green-haired grump and his heart of gold.
When he finally handed over the somewhat lopsided creation, you accepted it as though it were the finest crown ever made.
Then you proudly placed it atop your own head.
Leaning back, you rested against his chest.
His arms naturally settled around your waist as the two of you watched the sunset paint the world in shades of gold, violet, and rose.
“This was the most beautiful day,” you said softly.
His fingers threaded through your hair.
Then drifted to your shoulder and neck, tracing slow, absent-minded circles against your skin.
For a moment he said nothing.
Then, without taking his eyes off the horizon, he replied:
“…The day’s not over yet.”
Neither of you noticed how much time had passed until the sunlight filtering through the wisteria began to deepen into richer shades of gold.
The shadows stretched lazily across the meadow, and petals still drifted on every passing breeze, though fewer now than before.
Eventually, Zoro rose to his feet.
“We should head back.”
You looked up at him, reluctant to leave.
“…Already?”
His heart tightened a little. He didn’t want to rush you.
But there was still one last part of his plan left.
“The festival will be starting soon.”
You smiled and took the hand he offered without a second thought.
The walk back felt different.
Quieter.
Not because there was nothing left to say, but because neither of you felt any need to fill the silence anymore.
Walking side by side, neither of you removed your flower crowns. At one point, you considered reminding your swordsman that he was still wearing his. He had probably forgotten about it entirely.
Apparently not.
“I wear what I wear,” he said when you brought it up. “If somebody’s got a problem with it, they can tell me.”
In some unfamiliar village at the edge of the world, one of dozens he’d passed through in his life, anyone foolish enough to mock him for wearing a flower crown would become intimately acquainted with the sharp edge of his sword.
The bags in Zoro’s hand swayed with each step. You walked beside him, brushing your fingertips through the wildflowers one last time before the meadow disappeared behind the trees.
Without a word, your boyfriend slipped his free hand into yours and laced your fingers together.
As the town slowly came back into view, so did its sounds.
At first there was only distant laughter.
Then music.
Then voices spilling through narrow streets.
By the time you passed beneath the first lantern hanging overhead, daylight had almost completely surrendered.
One by one, paper lanterns flickered to life, bathing the streets in warm shades of amber and crimson. They hung from rooftops, stretched between market stalls, swayed above bridges, until the entire town seemed wrapped in a quiet constellation of golden light.
The evening had only just begun.
As you walked through the glowing streets, staring in wonder at everything around you, much to the delight of your gruff swordsman, who seemed to gain strength simply from watching you happy, something suddenly caught your eye.
“Zoro!”
His gaze followed yours.
A photo booth stood near the edge of the square.
Nothing particularly impressive, but strips of paper lanterns hung from its roof, fluttering in the evening breeze.
A grin spread across your face.
“We have to.”
You squeezed the muscle of his arm where your hand rested.
One eyebrow rose.
“…Do what?”
“Take pictures.”
“No.”
“Yes.”
“No.”
“Please?”
Those irresistible eyes should’ve been classified as a weapon.
“Tch.”
Rolling his eyes, he grabbed your wrist and headed straight toward the booth, dragging both you and himself along with equal resignation.
He would agree to almost anything for your smile.
Not that he’d ever admit it.
Not even to you.
Who knew what kind of evil you’d accomplish with that knowledge, you little menace.
Inside, the booth was absurdly small.
Your shoulders touched immediately.
A small light began blinking.
Above the camera, a sign lit up.
Three…
You weren’t ready.
Though you were having far too much fun to care.
He definitely wasn’t ready.
Two…
You burst out laughing because he was standing so stiffly he looked like a man awaiting execution.
Flower crown and all.
He shot you a mildly panicked glance.
One…
The flash went off just as you turned toward him, still laughing.
Another countdown began.
This time, you deliberately bumped your shoulder against his.
He looked down at you.
And a small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
Just a little one.
The kind reserved only for you. Watching you like this. So happy. So playful.
Then came the final picture.
Without warning, you pressed yourself against his side and kissed him.
He practically bristled like a startled cat.
His eyes widened and cheeks turned bright red, matching several of the flowers woven into his crown.
Then, just as quickly, he relaxed and kissed you back.
The machine whirred.
A moment later, two identical photo strips slid from the slot below.
Before you could tuck them away, Zoro quietly took one from your hand.
“…Keep the other.”
You blinked.
“For yourself.”
It wasn’t quite a request, nor was it an order.
Just something he wanted.
Something unexpectedly earnest.
“You’ll want it someday.”
The words escaped before he could stop them.
Almost immediately, he looked away, as though annoyed with himself for saying so much.
But you noticed.
Zoro didn’t speak like that unless he meant every word.
What a ridiculous man.
What a wonderful man.
You smiled to yourself and tucked yourself against his side once more as the two of you continued walking.
There wasn’t a force in the world strong enough to quiet the frantic beating of your heart.
You continued wandering for a little while longer as the crowds gradually began to thin.
Eventually, the two of you came upon a square where people were writing wishes on floating lanterns before releasing them into the night sky. Thousands of tiny lights, each marked with different handwriting, carried wishes, promises, and hopes upward into the heavens, drifting along the river or simply hovering in the warm summer air.
“Want to write one?” your boyfriend asked, his gaze lingering on you.
You looked around at the lanterns floating overhead.
“Do you?”
Zoro exhaled softly.
“…Suppose so.”
You wrote a simple birthday wish. Maybe something playful at first, though it turned sentimental by the end.
Truthfully, you weren’t sure what else there was left to wish for. It was hard to think of anything when you were already so happy, surrounded by everything you could have ever dreamed of.
You had freedom, wonderful friends you could call family.
And most of all… you had him.
A wonderful boyfriend who filled your life with a sense of trust and peace so profound that you hadn’t known such loyalty could exist anywhere in the world.
Zoro, meanwhile, took much longer.
He stared at the blank paper for what felt like an eternity, which naturally gave you plenty of opportunity to tease him.
“Didn’t know you had so much to wish for.”
He snorted.
Zoro wasn’t the type to make wishes. He worked for what he wanted. Always had.
Still, your beloved marimo eventually wrote something down, carefully and deliberately, before folding the paper shut before you could catch a glimpse.
“You don’t get to read it.”
You pouted and immediately tried to steal it.
He effortlessly held it just out of reach.
Then, before you could protest further, he leaned down and kissed you softly.
The argument died a swift and tragic death.
Together, you released your lanterns into the night.
You watched them drift higher and higher until they joined the countless others above.
Before long, Zoro’s gaze left the lanterns and settled on you instead, bathed in golden light and for a moment the entire festival seemed to disappear around you. The music faded into the distance, the crowd blurred into nothing, and all he could see was the woman standing beside him.
Beautiful beyond reason.
The most precious thing in his world.
And for a moment, watching you smile at the sky, he thought that perhaps his wish had already come true.
A few minutes later, he suddenly took your hand and gently led you away from the music, away from the laughter and crowd, until the sounds of the festival became little more than a pleasant murmur behind you.
Far enough that it felt like the two of you were alone again.
Only then did he stop beneath the warm glow of a lone lantern hanging from a wooden post.
For a second, neither of you spoke.
Then Zoro reached into the bag he’d been carrying all day.
Your curiosity immediately sharpened.
One by one, he began pulling things out.
A bouquet of flowers.
A few thoughtful keepsakes he'd quietly collected throughout the day.
A new weapon you’d been complaining about for weeks that you needed to replace. Your breath caught when you noticed the engraving: your initials beside his.
"...Zoro..."
And finally…
A delicate silver bracelet.
Tiny stones shimmered in the lantern light, but what caught your attention was the charm dangling from it.
It was almost identical to the three earrings he never took off.
You stared, speechless.
Then carefully turned it over.
Engraved on the back were two simple words:
Found you.
“…You found me?” you asked with a laugh, your head spinning from surprise and excitement.
He immediately looked away, scratching the back of his neck.
"...Yeah."
You fastened it around your wrist at once and held it up to admire it, completely radiant.
The sight nearly did him in.
Zoro’s heart swelled so much he thought it might climb straight into his throat and launch itself into the night sky alongside the lanterns.
Only after you’d had a moment to process everything did he finally look at you again.
And with all the awkward sincerity of a man who had spent the entire day saying I love you without ever using those words, he finally said the one sentence you’d been waiting for without expecting it in the slightest.
“Happy birthday.”
Your breath caught. Completely stunned.
Your eyes widened as you stared at him, lips parting to speak, yet no sound came.
Zoro shifted awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck again.
Then, almost reluctantly, explained:
“You mentioned it once. To Nami. That you were born on the first day of summer.”
You stared at him.
Remembering a birthday wasn’t unusual when people talked about it often.
When it was announced weeks ahead of time.
When everyone reminded each other.
But carrying that tiny piece of information for months, maybe almost a year or more? Through storms, battles, islands, and endless voyages across the Grand Line?
Among all the noise and chaos of your lives, one offhand thing you’d said long ago, something no one else had even thought twice about, had remained lodged in his mind all this time.
And somehow he still expected you to treat this as though it were completely ordinary.
As though this was a small thing.
You looked at him differently than ever before.
Your heart felt impossibly full, overflowing with love, tenderness, and complete astonishment.
You knew Zoro.
Or at least you had believed you did.
Yet somehow you'd overlooked just how deeply kind he was. How there was still so much tenderness hidden inside him that even after all this time, you occasionally forgot just how good he truly was.
At least when it came to you.
“I love you so much, you idiot.”
Your eyes filled with tears as you buried your face against his broad chest.
The swordsman laughed quietly as relief washed through him at last.
Everything had gone exactly the way he’d hoped.
The weight he'd been carrying for weeks finally slipped from his shoulders.
“This was the most beautiful day of my life,” you admitted. “Just spending it with you would’ve been enough. You didn’t have to go through all this trouble.”
True to form, Zoro clicked his tongue.
“Tch. Spending the day with you? That was for me.”
You lifted your head to look at him.
His ears looked impossibly red against his green hair.
“The gifts,” he continued, pulling you closer until there wasn’t even an inch between you, “that’s something for you.”
His forehead rested lightly against yours.
“A way of saying that no matter how dumb or oblivious I look sometimes…”
His voice softened.
“…I’m here.”
His hand settled over yours.
“I listen.”
The silver bracelet glimmered between your joined hands.
“And I love you.”
A pause.
The faintest blush spread across his cheeks.
“More than anything.”
The eyes that always carried such strength and certainty softened as they looked into yours.
Your lips found each other in a gentle kiss.
A slow one.
The kind made from longing, affection, gratitude, happiness, and all the things words failed to carry.
Around you, lanterns continued to rise. Thousands of them.
Carrying hopes, promises, dreams and wishes.
Including his.
Somewhere above the town, drifting higher beneath the stars, floated a lantern containing the wish he’d guarded all evening.
Not a wish to become the world’s strongest swordsman.
Not a wish to defeat Mihawk.
Nothing like that.
Among the stars floated a lantern carrying a single wish, written carefully in his uneven handwriting:
May every birthday after this one be mine to spend with you.
scars were shame on a swordsman’s back unless they were from your nails as he brought you to the brink over and over again with only his name on your lips.
scars were shame on a swordsman’s back unless they were from your teeth as you sank them into his shoulder while he thrusted into you, his hands gripping your thighs as he leaned his chest against yours, capturing your lips in a messy kiss.
scars were shame on a swordsman’s back unless they were from you and were reminders of the night before that he felt against his skin every time he loved and he was reminded of them every time he saw you on deck the next morning.
scars were a reminder of what had transpired between the two of you in secret and for Roronoa Zoro, there was no shame in that.
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