NOTE: Upon writing this, I sort of realized this version of reader can be a good match for Zoro too…so I might write a Zoro spin off with Healer/Apothecary reader :>
Warnings: HEAVILY UNEDITED. Might edit/rewrite later :>
___________________________
Chopper was rushing to carry the strangers who passed out in the snow outside. He shakes the snow off his fur and shouts as he sets down the strangers.
“Doctorine, YN! They’re all injured!”
You were busy storing herbs that you foraged with Chopper when you heard him call out desperately. You left whatever you were doing and hurried to get to where he is and you gasped.
There’s a skinny boy, a blonde man, and a girl with vibrant orange hair. Chopper managed to settle them down on the beds, but you knew that they needed treatment immediately, especially the orange head girl.
You touched her forehead, she’s burning up and you hissed at the hot sensation. You turn to Chopper worriedly, “She’s burning up. I’ll go get Doctorine, give them warm blankets, and prepare a warm bath for the boys.” you told Chopper, before you rushed across the room, running to find Doctorine in her room drinking booze.
“Auntie, we’ve got sick visitors. They probably came from all the way down. There’s three of them, we’ll have our hands full.”
Doctorine stood up, a bottle of booze still in her hands as you both made your way back to see the injured visitors.
“Sweetie, be a dear and tend to the blond. Chopper, warm up the skinny kid. I’ll take care of girly here.”
When Doctorine gave her orders you were quick on your feet, immediately tending to the blonde man, you used the towel soaked in warm water to wipe his cold body, his skin was so cold to the touch you had to soak the towel once more to the warm water basin that Chopper prepared.
“We’ve no idea how long they’ve been out in the snow.” you whispered, all three were showing signs of hypothermia, they probably climbed all the way up and you were honestly amazed how these three were able to survive the slippery rocks and the harsh cold.
It’s unheard of for people to climb all the way up here, given you and your Auntie were labeled as literal witches practicing black magic and witchcraft by the people below, and even Chopper won’t be safe if he went down there given the last time they see the talking reindeer they shot at him mercilessly. Judging from their clothing, they’re definitely not locals of Drum Island, also no local would dare to get up here so you know exactly they’re completely foreign to this frozen land.
You checked on the blonde man’s body for any wounds, grazes and such and he doesn’t have any. You continue to carefully wipe his body with a warm towel to slowly help him regulate his body temperature, he’s still unconscious but the moment the towel brushes the area where his ribs are his breathing hitches in his sleep, you frowned examining the area and noticed swelling and some bruising.
“This one’s got broken ribs.” you observed.
You rummaged through the rack nearby where herbs, and concoctions are placed. You looked through the bottles and dried herbs without wasting any time and your eyes landed on the comfrey plant you took a roll of bandage. You carefully crushed the comfrey in your hand as it turns to a rough paste, applying it on the bruised parts of his body.
You made sure every bruising is covered by the poultice, your delicate fingers gently brush against his skin, you could feel his warmth returning to normal in every brush of your fingertips.
The juice of the plant gets soaked by the roll of bandage and you carefully wrapped him in loose bandage to not restrict his breathing, still ensuring the comfrey is well wrapped and won’t fall off.
Kureha watched with a smirk, “Impressive, would’ve never thought of using comfrey. I would’ve poured an entire bottle of concoction in his mouth right off the bat. You’re as methodical as ever, Dear.” she winked as she tended to the orange head girl.
You smiled appreciatively at her comment, feeling giddy that your Aunt—despite your differences in approach when it comes to medicine are entirely different she recognizes your effort and your own methods.
Chopper stood beside you, looking up with his big doe eyes. “Is there anything else I can do to help?” he asked in his tiny voice.
You looked down at him with a comforting smile, Chopper has been doing good studying medicine and training with you and Doctorine but he still asks for you and Doctorine’s permission before doing anything else. You brushed a hand in his fury cheeks, “Can you grab the blanket I left nearby the fireplace earlier? It’s probably all warmed up now, carefully put them over our patient. I'll heat up more water to brew some tea once they wake up.” Chopper nods enthusiastically, running to get to the blankets and tend to the patients.
You smiled, letting him do it by himself, wanting to give him a sense of independence and confidence as a Doctor in the making. You exchanged a knowing look with Doctorine who’s also giving orders for Chopper to take over, you knew your Auntie’s way of showing care, despite her roughness and colorful vocabulary you know she has grown fond of the reindeer boy.
_______________________________________
“This old witch tried to cook me in a soup and eat me!”
Luffy’s screaming filled the stone castle, Chopper was startled hiding away behind your legs holding onto the hem of your dress but his antlers were still visible. You reached your hand out to Chopper letting him hold onto you for comfort as he was startled by the loud skinny guy.
Nami sighed looking at you with an apologetic smile, “Sorry,” she murmured and turned to Luffy. “She’s not a witch, they’re not a witch, they're Doctors. No one’s gonna get eaten.” she clarified.
Sanji woke up to the loud noises, feeling groggy, his whole body aching, he tried to sit up but he clutched his sides feeling a sharp sting, he slowly stood up from the bed. He looked down seeing a bandage wrapped around his body.
He looked around him soaking in the interior of the place, it’s made of stone, there’s a fireplace nearby
He could smell herbs all over the place, even the bandage wrapped around him smells like herbs. His eyes landed on Luffy with a towel wrapped around his lower body.
“Luffy, why are you screaming?” Sanji’s eyes scanned the room, his eyes meeting yours and you let out a sweet smile, still hiding Chopper behind your legs.
You turned away from the blonde man and turned to Luffy who’s beside Nami, “You were all showing early signs of hypothermia, we’re not sure how long y’all have been out but estimating the distance below from up here you all needed to regulate your temperature.” you explained softly.
Doctrine stretches her neck looking at them boredly, “Dearest here, reset your ribs—blondie.” she informed Sanji pointing at you, the blonde cook followed where Doctorine’s finger was pointing at and he sees you trying to hide Chopper behind your legs, the reindeer boy holding onto the hem of your dress.
Your eyes met his and Sanji was mesmerized, your pinkish lips curled up into a polite smile. “It’s a good thing that your ribs weren’t severely broken. I would suggest a little extra care in your upper body to ensure proper healing.”You informed him, for some reason you feel heat spread on your cheeks.
Sanji let out a charming smile, “Very well, Madame. Thank you, I’m actually feeling good as new. Must be your charm and magic then?” he said smoothly.
Doctorine raised her brows at the exchange but turned to Luffy instead.
“Just to clear things up, I put you in warm water to prevent hypothermia.” Doctorine said, looking at bewildered Luffy one hand on her waist, the other holding her booze. She waved her hand dismissively at the patients. “I’ll bill all of you, later. Sweetie, take care of these kids. I’ll be up in my room.” she turns, heading out of the room still drinking her booze.
Sanji finally snapped out of his dazed look at you and turned to check on Nami worriedly, “Do you want to eat anything?” Nami nodded a small smile plastered on her lips.
“Actually, I could eat. I feel like I haven’t eaten in days.” she sighed feeling better but her stomach felt empty. She felt energized probably from the warm clothes and blanket but she’s still hungry, given she must’ve been out for a while and haven’t had a chance to eat anything.
Sanji hums, nodding, “Well yeah of course you haven’t.”
Luffy’s eyes lit up, “Me too!” he raised his hand, his stomach growling.
Sanji chuckled, his eyes turning on you. “Apologies, for the late introduction Ma’am. I’m Sanji and I’m our ship’s cook. Can I ask where is your kitchen? I’d like to cook something real quick, just something to warm us all up.” His eyes met yours and he almost backtracks, still taken aback by the beauty right in front of him, seeing you up close is wild, you look prettier up close.
“Chopper, can you show them where the kitchen is?” you looked down at Chopper gently brushing his fur to comfort him so he would stop hiding and as usual he relaxed in your touch and stopped hiding between your legs.
He walked ahead ready to guide Sanji to the kitchen but the cook was nailed to where he stood still looking at you, you blinked at him clearing your throat pointing to Chopper. “He’s gonna show you the way to our kitchen.” you told him, smiling awkwardly.
__________________________________________
“That’s why….Chopper is the way he is.” you smiled sadly, while eating the warm meal that Sanji cooked.
You and Doctorine just told them the story of how you both ended up taking in Chopper and the entire crew was enveloped by silence when they found out the tragedy that the reindeer boy faced.
“That’s why he was so protective of the flag.” Sanji whispered, wiping away the tears that formed at the corner of his eyes.
You cleared your throat standing up, “I’ll just check up on him. Doctorine, I’ll just bring him some soup.” you waved at Luffy, Nami and Sanji to excuse yourself heading out of the room to look for Chopper.
Sanji followed you with his gaze, he can recognize the hidden pain from your eyes as well, the distant look you have when Doctorine was talking about loss and death, about Wapol’s tyranny, you were gripping your bowl tight, so tight he thought it would break.
He recognized a hidden rage in your soft, gentle voice and delicate gaze. He took note of how your eyes darkened at the mention of Wapol, the clench in your jaw, and the tight purse of your lips. It was easy to pick up the anger from your expressions.
Doctorine noticed the cook’s gaze lingering on the door where you exit and she cleared her throat to snap the cook out of his own thoughts, she raised her brow. “Let her be. She dealt with loss herself too.” she told them simply.
“But it’s not my story to tell.” she added.
__________________
The warmth and comfort the crew found in the castle was soon shattered when Vivi arrived shivering from the extreme cold.
She was terrified the fear in her eyes was visible while you handed her a warmed up blanket and warm tea. Vivi looked at the crew, “He’s back. Wapol is back and he ate a Devil Fruit.” she said fearfully, her fingers trembling as she sipped on the tea.
There was a stunned silence in the room until Luffy declared his plan to fight Wapol.
Doctorine shook her head at the optimistic boy, watching him hype his crew for the upcoming battle but she has other priorities at this moment. Doctorine looked at you and Chopper, “Pack up quick, Chopper. We’ll take one of the secret passageways. And you, dearie—gather your supplies. We’re going down the mountain, back into hiding.” she ordered but you remained standing still with Chopper beside you looking up as if gathering courage just by looking at you.
“I’m not leaving, Aunt Kureha. I’m staying to help out.”
Doctorine turned to you, it’s her first time hearing such defiance from your voice, ever since she took you in after you became an orphan, you’ve always been a compliant one, you’ve had your own ways, yes, but you never do anything that completely goes against her wish.
When she heard you call her Aunt Kureha instead of Doctorine, she knew there’s no stopping you but that doesn’t mean she won’t do anything about it.
“Dear just in case you’ve forgotten it—you do remember that piece of shit is the reason why you’re stuck with me.”
You clenched your fist looking down, “I know, I fucking know. I saw it with my own eyes. And that’s another reason why I will stay. Until when will we hide? Until when will I run away from that monster? I’m no longer a child, Aunt Kureha.” You were so young when Wapol was getting rid of powerful clan heads to stay on top, your family was one of the biggest threats to his throne. He knew your father and mother’s influence, knew that the people of Drum Island will easily favor your family if they even come to think of starting an uprising against him.
But your father and mother had no interest in politics or power, with your family’s status they try to help and reach out to the oppressed people but Wapol sees it as defiance to his royalty and the next thing you knew you were watching your family be taken by royal guards for an execution.
Kureha, your father’s distant cousin took you in, staged your death by making you drink a concoction to stop your heart momentarily, making everyone believe they succeeded in ending your bloodline and hid you knowing that Wapol would have no hesitations of adding you to his body count if he ever finds out you survived. For Kureha, it was better to raise you as the witch's apprentice, sometimes isolation is power, being an oddball reduces the risk of your identity.
Chopper steps forward too, holding onto the hem of your dress. “I’m staying with Missus too, If there’s gonna be a battle, people are gonna get hurt. We have to stay and help them. Because that’s what a Doctor does.” he said bravely, meeting Doctorine’s intense gaze.
“Fine, since you’re both so grown up. I’ll leave you to it. Have fun dying.”
Kureha turned away to leave and she gave you one last glance before she made her way out to escape. She carried her booze as usual but as she turned her back to you and Chopper she shed a tear. You looked down at Chopper who tugged on the hem of your dress. “We’ll be fine right, Missus?” you nodded at him.
“Yes, Chopper. Go on, help them get Nami so we can transport her safely.”
He nods, rushing to follow Sanji to go get Nami while you stay with Luffy and Vivi trying to plan what to do if Wapol comes over.
____________________
“If a cannon won’t kill you, I have other weapons I can use.” Wapol prepares for a counterattack, laughing evilly as he looks at all of you.
The tyrant came back with a much terrifying power, he's no longer just a tyrant, his entire body is a weapon now after he ate the devil fruit.
You looked at him with cold eyes while Luffy prepared to fight back, you moved first, your speed surprising everyone in the room, you held onto your Kunai and with a swift spin of your entire body you threw it to Wapol.
“AHAHAHAHAHA! I recognize you now, kid! The daughter of the fallen Lord! Would you like to say hi to your dear mother and father?”
You landed on your feet steadily as the Kunai made contact with Wapol , grazing various parts of his body. He didn't seem to mind it but of course he doesn't know any better about your skills. It's better he underestimated you now.
You smirked coldly, “You know what makes a healer a good fighter?” you stepped forward, ignoring Chopper’s worried call to you, you went nearer to look at Wapol directly in his eyes.
Wapol looked at you insultingly, the arrogance still clear in his eyes. “Fine, let me indulge you for once before I kill you and your stupid friends.” He laughed holding onto his belly like a madman.
Sanji stepped forward to snatch you away from Wapol, if Luffy attacks he wants you out of the line of fire. But before he could reach his hand out to grab you, your laughter echoed in the room and even Wapol backtracks at the sound of that soulless laugh.
“We vowed to use our knowledge to heal but it's the very same that allows us to know how to ruin you at the same time.”
Wapol frowned, unable to comprehend your sentence, “Hah your little knives did nothing—” he stumbled back, there’s a loud hiss echoing at the stone walls, his eyes widened feeling a sharp pain travel in his body, his hand tried to cover his mouth but he was met with liquid and a sharp pain.
Sanji’s eyes widened seeing the metal in Wapol’s mouth melting, he looked at you with wide eyes. He didn’t even notice that you threw something with the kunai. Chopper watched you with a terrified look in his eyes, he’s never seen you this mad, nor cold, never, he knew you’ve always been capable of fighting but this was far from the casual training you’ll do before.
But he smiled despite that fear, he knew how hurt you were just as hurt as he was, and he's glad to see you stand up for yourself and for the memory of your loved ones that Wapol disgraced and tainted.
“W-what did you do…What…” Wapol asked, trying to reattach his fallen parts.
“I wouldn’t waste my kunai that recklessly, it’s a mere distraction to throw the vial of the Ironbane. Metal is tough but not invincible.”
You've spent your years learning medicine, but along with it is the knowledge of how powerful minerals and plants can be, living in full isolation with Kureha allowed you to dabble on things normal kids wouldn't take interest in. You knew that somehow Wapol would be back, and you vowed you wouldn't be the same helpless girl who watched your parents fall midtown.
For years, you developed medicines and concoctions, but at the very same time you've learned to make weapons, and poisons, extracted from poisonous plants, saps, venom and even minerals. You knew you needed every weapon you could gather in your arsenal once the monster of your past came knocking on your door and damn you were thankful he came back wielding a weapon you knew how to fight against.
Your Kunai were laced with paralytic properties that needed a little time to take effect but with that distraction you were able to throw a vial of Ironbane that is extremely corrosive. He's hurting from inside out that's for sure.
You step backwards watching him become more disoriented as the paralytic property of the poison from the Kunai takes effect and Luffy steps in preparing for the final attack with Sanji. You looked back at the two. “The temporary paralysis of the poison has a maximum effect for about two minutes! Hurry!” You called out, stepping back to give them a clear shot.
“Gum Gum…Air Assault!”
Upon making contact, Luffy was able to easily send Wapol flying out of the stained glass window. He cheered with his fist up as the tyrant was nowhere to be seen now, perhaps still flying out of the window to meet his fall.
Sanji yells, celebrating with Luffy but his eyes landed on you and he noticed the tears forming in your eyes, he quietly walked away from his crew and headed to you, “That was really…really amazing.” he complimented your skills, he had no idea that the hands dedicated to heal can also be capable of such feat.
He's in awe, from that display of bravery, courage and coldness when you look at Wapol but at the same time he prefers seeing you smile like this as if all your worry is gone.
“Thanks. God knows how many nights I spent dreaming how to get back at him for every atrocity he did.” you whispered, wiping your tears away.
Sanji smiled, placing a hand on your shoulder, “Well, you got him good. He deserves more than that but those pretty hands are way better without making contact with that piece of shit right?” he tried to lighten up the mood and you laughed.
“Right, that’s right. He’s filthy.” you remarked with a grimace.
“Really filthy, I mean he stinks and all that doesn’t he?” Sanji added and your laughter echoes in the cold stone wall.
Sanji sees the relief, he no longer sees the hidden rage in your eyes, it’s replaced by wonder as you look at the distance ahead, the broken stained glass where Wapol flew out.
You looked up at Sanji in appreciation, “Thank you…” you whispered, before turning around to his crew, looking at Luffy, Vivi, Chopper, and Nami.
“His debts have been way overdue. Thank you for letting us have our payback.”
Nami hums patting your back alongside Princess Vivi. “We owe you a lot too.” They said in unison giving you a tight hug and you felt the corner of your eyes heat up, tears threatening to fall as you wrapped your arms around them.
When Nami and Princess Vivi let you go, Chopper turned back to his small form and hugged your legs glad that you both survived. “We did it, Missus!” he cheers happily.
Luffy watched the entire thing unfold with a cheerful smile and when your gaze met he grins wider at you, charging himself towards you for a hug and you froze. “You’re so cool! I mean how did you do that? The melting and throwing and stuff?” he asked, holding your shoulders looking at you with so much amazement and amusement.
You just smile awkwardly when he pats your back repeatedly, ignoring Nami’s reminder that he should respect personal spaces and social decorum and all that. Luffy is not the type of person to mind such social contracts and perhaps that’s what made him feel safe to you, no hint of malice in the skinny boy, just complete amazement and eagerness.”
“You know what? You and Chopper better come with us!” Luffy proposed.
(The reader is gender-neutral. The ethnicity/race is preferably Black/person of color.)
There he goes again, you thought, trying to not make it obvious that you could see what Sanji was doing. Turning another page in the book you were reading, you tried to ignore the mental itch you felt at knowing that he was watching you and that in 5...4...3...2. There it is. The sound of him writing something down on his little notepad. What is he doing?
You had noticed the strange behavior for at least a week now, and you couldn't find a reason as to why he was doing it.
It started on a Tuesday when you and the crew had woken up and you all made your way to the kitchen. Like usual, Sanji was already up and was making plates for everyone, happy to see everyone eager to try his food.
When he noticed you enter, he had a strange smile on his face that you noticed he only made to you. It wasn't the usual flirty smile that he made to whoever he found attractive and wasn't the usual friendly, brotherly one he made to Luffy or Ussopp. You found it strange. You would have probably preferred if he just scowled or frowned at you like he did Zoro, but no, it was that strange smile.
Politely you smiled back at him, before asking, "Do you have an apple?"
The smile he had quickly lessened at the question, but he tried to fix it before anyone else could see, and nodded his head, before passing a nice, red apple to you.
You had taken the apple with a grateful 'thanks' to him and left to sit down next to Nami. Right as you bit into the apple, you suddenly heard the sound of paper moving, and looking back to him, you saw him quickly scribbling something down. You were about to ask him what it was he was doing, but Luffy had already opened his mouth and began talking about what to do for the day.
It happened again at lunch time.
You all had ported at a small island, and you and Nami had left to go shopping for more supplies. You had gone to the market and had bought some food for you to eat, knowing that Sanji had probably made something that the others might like, but not so much you. You didn't know why or how, but even as a pirate, you still had a very picky appetite.
By the time you had returned to the ship, you were eating some grilled chicken covered in a rich, tangy sauce on a long stick that you had bought from the market. It had been pretty cheap and surprisingly tasted extremely good, so you didn't think it was a big deal and you knew that it would fill you up for a while.
When you arrived on deck and were talking to Nami, while eating, you could feel his gaze on your back. You were going to ignore it until you heard the sound of him turning a page in his notepad and you looked over your shoulder to see him scribbling something down again. When he saw you looking at him, he smiled that strange smile again, then left.
Then it happened again at dinner.
You were sitting at the table with Nami, joking and giggling, when he set down both of your plates down in front of you.
He winked at you both with his usual flirty smile. "Bon Appetite, wonderful beauties."
While Nami was used to his flirting and was able to say a 'thanks' to him, you were still new to it, and had to ignore the warmth in your cheeks, and say 'thanks.'
The dinner he made was delicious, and everyone loved it. You did too, but one of the sides that he included on the plate was some type of sausage, so you subtly separated it from the rest of the food. You didn't think it was a big deal, but you suddenly felt the itch again, and you looked up to see Sanji watching you from the kitchen counter. You quickly looked back down, and unsurprisingly, you heard a notepad be whipped out again.
You were the only one he did this too. Not Luffy, Ussopp, Nami, or even Zoro. You weren't sure if it was because you were the new one or something else, but you were weirded out by it. After that, he did not stop doing it. You were going to ask Nami about it, but changed your mind, deciding to go to him yourself.
~
Looking at him now, you felt a strange sensation come over you. He was sitting by himself at the kitchen table, smoking and looking as if there was something on his mind.
Is this a bad time, you wondered. You rarely ever saw the cook relaxing or by himself, and wondered if maybe you could talk to him some other time.
You were about to change your mind and go to bed until suddenly you saw him take out the notepad and place it on the table, looking down at it with frustration written on his face.
"Sanji," you said his name, walking over to the table.
He quickly pushed the notepad to the side and looked up at you, his smile normal again. "Yes, my lovely (Y/N). What can I do for you?"
The warmth came to your cheeks again, but you ignored it and sat down across from him. "What's that?" You nodded to his notepad.
"Oh," he said, blowing out some smoke. "I used it at the Baratie when Zeff used to make me wait tables."
Nodding your head, you were reminded of when Nami had told you how they all met the cook. "So, why have you been using it now?"
"What?" His eyes widened and he looked at you sheepishly.
"You write in it every time I'm eating. I've seen you."
A chuckle left him before he took another drag from the cigarette before answering. "You are hard to cook for, (Y/N). I never know what you like or don't like."
"Yeah, I'm picky as hell," you agreed with him, nodding. "But what are you writing down?"
"What you like and don't like," he answered, picking the notepad up and sliding it to you. "See. Let me know if I've gotten anything wrong."
Picking it up, you flipped the paper and found a T chart where your food likes and dislikes were written down. "Oh," was all you could say. No one had ever gone to this trouble to figure out your dislikes and likes with food. Even your own parent(s) used to force you to eat whatever they made whether you liked it or not. Sometimes you were made fun of for being so picky. The fact he did this made you feel a little special.
He really does care about this crew to go through all this trouble over what to feed one person, you realized.
Looking at all the food he wrote down, you noticed that the 'dislikes' side was quite long and the 'likes' side only had less than ten food choices. I must have really frustrated the poor guy.
"You know you could have just asked me. I would've told you all the stuff I liked."
A grin came to his face and blew more smoke out of his mouth before replying "I wanted to surprise you. Finally make you a dinner where you will not have to pick around the food or skip lunch or breakfast, or even pass some to Luffy."
You couldn't help the laugh that left you at the mention of Luffy. You remembered how eager he was to eat whatever you didn't like. Sometimes you didn't even have to say anything, just look in his direction, and he would quickly stretch his arm towards your plate. Now that you're thinking about it, you remember seeing slight frustration on the cook's face even then.
"Give me your pen," you told him, holding out your hand to him.
With furrowed brows, he pulled a pen out of his pocket and dropped it in your hand, before taking another drag from his cigarette.
Taking the cap off, you crossed out some of the choices on the 'dislikes' side of the chart, noticing that he had gotten some wrong, and added more food choices on the 'likes' side. When you were done, you put the cap back on, before passing it and the notepad back to him.
"Next time, just ask me. Okay?"
The smile he gave you was the normal flirty one that he usually gave you and Nami, and surprisingly, you were happy to see it again.
"Yes, my lovely (Y/N)," he replied, giving you a wink.
Ignoring the warmth coming to your face, you stood up from the table, and told him a quick "Goodnight" before leaving, hoping that you have soothed some of the cook's frustrations.
~
Before you stepped foot into the kitchen, you could smell the breakfast Sanji was making and a grin quickly came to your face. You recognized it immediately and hurried to the kitchen to see him bringing out plates for you all. You hadn't tasted it since you were a kid, and it was one of the few things that your parent(s) didn't have to force you to eat.
"Smells good, Sanji," Luffy said, taking a seat, his mouth practically watering at the sight. "What is it?"
Taking a seat next to Nami, you saw Sanji already preparing multiple plates for you all.
"Oh, it's (Favorite Breakfast)," He answered, glancing at you with that strange smile again, before bringing two plates to you and Nami.
With a polite smile in his direction, you picked up your fork and took a bite out of the breakfast, moaning at the burst of flavor in your mouth, memories of your childhood coming to you and making you smile. You suddenly felt the itch again and you glanced at him to see him grinning proudly as he brought a plate to Luffy.
"How do you like it, (Y/N)," he asked, eager to hear your compliments.
"It's amazing, Sanji," you told him. "Really good. Thanks."
"Your welcome, my picky angel," he told you and like last night, you tried to ignore the warmth you felt in not just your cheeks, but in your chest as well.
𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 as much as you wanted to stay by his side, you couldn't bear the thought of watching him fall in love with other women while you're stuck at the kitchen washing dishes and measuring ingredients. so you dreamt of leaving, of traveling to different islands to share your lovely songs and tunes; but the more your desire to leave grows, the more sanji finds himself drowning in your warmth.
or,
you and sanji over the years, wherein five times you tried to leave him and the one time you finally did, despite his refusal to let you go.
𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐬 musician reader, 5 + 1 things, pining, unrequited love, not actually unrequited love, heavy (kind of) angst, fluff, hurt/comfort, angst with a happy ending
𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 HERE IT IS! the response to the sneak peek was crazy, and so i rushed to get this done. i only watched the live action so beware of minor mistakes if you ever saw one. english is also not my first language and you are welcome to correct me anytime for any grammatical errors. title is a lyric from the last time by taylor swift ft. gary lightbody. this fic is also posted in ao3 with its full summary and WITH A BONUS CHAPTER. enjoy reading!
𝐰𝐜 11.3k
"There you are."
Your soapy, wet hands almost dropped the ceramic plate you were currently washing in the dirty kitchen sink as soon as you heard a familiar smooth and honeyed voice. Abruptly turning off the sink so that the sound of his approaching footsteps were clear to your ears, you wiped the sweat off your forehead with the back of your hand before turning your body towards him.
He was carrying a stack of plates, a fresh batch to add to the pile you had to wash, with an obnoxious yet handsome smile plastered on his lips. You took a deep breath to calm the growing irritation at the bottom of your stomach, reminding yourself that this was your job and you only had a couple of hours to endure until you're free to lock yourself up in your bedroom. You were particularly looking forward to writing today, and the thought of finishing the lyrics to your new song tonight slightly eased your mood. Accepting your fate, you pointed to the remaining space beside the sink.
"Place it there." You told him, albeit begrudgingly as you turn on the sink again and pour more soap on the battered sponge.
You took a mental note to ask Zeff later about buying new sponges, and if you were lucky to catch him in a good mood, you'll put in a request to get the sink fixed and cleaned. Your eyes scanned over the grime and rust around the area. If you were going to spend the rest of your life washing dishes, then you might as well get a proper kitchen sink to do so.
An amused laugh fell out of the golden haired man you grew up with, surprised at your compliance to do the job you hated. The sound nearly sent your poor heart into a dizzying whirlwind of little nuisances called emotions. "What a hardworking woman."
"I could say the same to you. It seems like you have a new record today." You said while you splashed dirtied bowls with soap water, smiling at him teasingly, "Thought you would've been kicked out of the line by now."
"The old man just can't help but to accept the fact that I am a greater cook than him." He smirked, wiping a knife with a dish cloth. Trying not to roll your eyes, you shook your head at his usual display of arrogance, yet you can't help but to grin as you began to hear scratching sounds against the floors.
"Then you better get those chopped carrots ready." You replied, and when you got to finish your sentence, the doors to the kitchen swung open, revealing the head chef.
Zeff's cold and steely eyes immediately landed on the blond. He walked towards him with a fast pace despite only having one leg, his braided mustache bouncing in each step.
"Aye, aye, aye. Why haven't you started on the carrots yet, little eggplant? Can you get any slower?" He scolded, loud enough for the whole staff to hear, but none of them even flinched. You returned back to your plates and glasses, smiling softly. This was part of your routine everyday: to listen in their silly arguments.
However, before the younger chef can reply, you butted in, "Sanji fetched some of the plates for me. Since there's a lunch rush, I couldn't leave the kitchen."
Zeff let out a low hum. You couldn't even see Sanji's face, but you knew him well enough to know that he was smiling triumphantly, knowing that he won this time. After a few minutes of contemplating, the head chef clicked his tongue. "Don't defend him, little lass. But I'll let it slip this time. What are you waiting for, then? Start cutting them!"
"Yes, chef." Sanji answered in a jovial manner, placing the carrots on a chopping board.
Twisting the faucet lever so that the water flow from the sink is gentle and quiet, you then paid attention to their little banters every now and then. You brought up a wine glass and positioned it by your side to try to get a glimpse of the two most important men in your life. Through their reflection on the glass, you can see Zeff hunching over Sanji's knifework, nodding every time the vegetables were correctly sliced.
On the other hand, Sanji was unbothered by the head chef's observations and continued to cut the ingredients calmly. Some of the strands in his hair fell down on one side of his face, covering an eye, and most people would think that it was an unusual way of styling hair; yet it was one thing out of many that you loved the most about him.
You accepted it years ago.
You accepted the fact that you somehow fell in love with Sanji Vinsmoke along your weird journey of working in a sea restaurant full of former pirates and making music while at it. How the pesky feelings grew and wrapped themselves around your aching heart, you didn't know. Maybe it was when he learned to cook your favorite food and gave it to you afterwards, or the way his crystal blue eyes reminded you of snowflakes every winter.
Or maybe it was when he pulled your hair out of jealousy the moment he learned that Zeff would be taking in another child in his care, but brushed it and even braided it after the latter cleared the misunderstanding. Maybe it was when he supported you in your dreams and told you they weren't silly, maybe it was when he fought off drunk men that were trying to hit on you. Or maybe it was the way his voice would drop an octave lower whenever he asks you for a favor. The list could go on and on and you still wouldn't know the reason why. It doesn't matter anyway. You tripped, you fell, and now you're pining.
Drying off the last of the plates, you washed your own hands after and patted them dry on your skirt. You were the last one to leave the kitchen, the other staff already back in their quarters after a long, exhausting day of cooking. You fixed the signature blue bandana tied in your hair then went on your way towards the upper deck.
You weren't blessed with a talent in cooking, so you offered to do chores instead. Washing the dishes, cleaning the restaurant, and doing the laundry were few of the things you do in the Baratie. You can't say that you enjoy it, but you were beyond grateful that Zeff gave you a chance despite his opposition to let a woman work inside his restaurant.
As you were about to go to the newly laundered clothes you hung on a thin wire earlier that morning, you heard two voices speaking. You also smelled cigarette smoke wafting through the air, and you only knew one person who could be smoking at this hour. Your breath hitched in anticipation.
"You bringing a woman to your bed again, Sanji?" The other person asked playfully, but there was a hint of disbelief in his voice. You carefully took a peek so you won't accidentally reveal yourself and be accused of eavesdropping. Two people came into view with their backs facing you.
"Now, what are you talking about, Patty? I am a gentleman. I only had a nice chat with the lovely lady and escorted her back to her ship." Sanji interjected, a cigarette hanging on his lips.
Patty huffed. "I didn't know that chatting included kiss marks on jawlines."
This caused Sanji to laugh and say, "Not my fault she was charmed by my food."
"The boss man ain't gonna like it when he finds out about this."
"He's not gonna find out." Sanji assured him, wiping off the said kiss mark on his jaw. You stared at him as he did so, and you pitied the woman who planted that kiss, knowing she was just one of the many beautiful ladies Sanji had flirted with before. However, a tinge of pain in your chest said otherwise, taunting you that it was not pity you're feeling, but foul jealousy.
"Why don't you look for more decent women, eh? How about 'little lass' for a change?" Patty suddenly suggested.
It was like someone had hit your stomach with one of the metal pans in the kitchen with the way it lurched in surprise and nervousness. Your heartbeat started to quicken the longer you waited for his response, making your grip on your skirt tighter. In moments like these, you allowed yourself to hope, to wish that he saw something in you and that he finds you beautiful and lovely enough to be the person standing by his side.
But his answer made all that hope crumble down into nothing but dust.
"I don't see her that way." Sanji said after a long stretch of silence, taking a long drag from the cigarette then releasing the smoke in a single breath.
Ah.
You blinked repeatedly, trying to keep the tears from forming. It's always been like this, so why can't you get used to it? Taking a deep breath, you gulped away the knot forming in your throat and decided to leave. You can grab the clothes later.
"You're too kind for him." Someone behind you spoke, making you jump and tense up. Turning around, you saw Zeff looking at you with an unreadable emotion in his eyes and his hands on his hips, almost like he knew your secret. Of course he does. He always sees everything.
You stumbled on your words. "Sir?"
"That boy is always up to something." He began, switching his attention to Sanji. "One minute he's stubbornly immature in the kitchen, and the next he'll be a thirsty man staring at women like they're liquid booze."
Clearing your throat, you forced a smile.
"Well, he can be a lot sometimes." You agreed, remembering the days when the two of you would fight over irrelevant matters. Then you chuckled and continued, "But he's kind. He's gentle, and lovely, like a freshly made poem you keep repeating in your head. But then he's also confusing, hot-headed, and reckless. He's like the sea, isn't he? Calm yet wrapped with mystery, dangerous yet beautiful..."
You trailed off, an unbearable heat rising up your cheeks and neck once you slowly began to realize that you just ranted out your feelings to the head chef. You glanced at him with wide eyes, preparing to see a disgusted look on his face; however, Zeff didn't appear to be repulsed by your little speech. In fact, the corners of his lips were slightly quirked up.
"But I cannot swim. If I were to drown, he wouldn't save me." You quickly added, hoping to shut down the topic.
He sighed. "You will meet someone who deserves you as much as you deserve them, little lass." He simply said. He then laid his hand out, and on his palm was a little box poorly tied with a ribbon. "Here, for you."
Altnough you were a bit confused at the random gift, you accepted it and cradled the box to your chest. "I'll be okay, Zeff." You insisted, grinning cheekily. "When I become famous, I'll sing my songs here in Baratie, and people would flood the restaurant to hear my singing. And to eat your food too, of course."
The head chef nodded, relief flooding his expression. "I look forward to that." He said while awkwardly returning your smile.
That night, when you were sure that everyone in the Baratie was asleep, you opened the loose floorboard on the floors of your bedroom and grabbed the wooden box you kept hidden for a long time now. You opened the lid and began counting the Berry you saved for the past few months.
Tomorrow was the perfect day to leave.
You just can't stay here. Yes, you had a roof over your head, delicious food to eat everyday, and clean clothes to wear but you were so miserable. This wasn't the life you wanted. You wish to go out there, sing your heart out, and fall in love with someone who actually loves you back.
A knock on your door made you freeze. You held your breath as the person on the other side continued to knock a few more times. "You awake?"
Pain surged through your veins, your chest twisting in agony. Sanji.
"You didn't come down for dinner. I guess you're too tired, hmm?" He said, his muffled voice gentle, and the sound almost prompted you to stand up and open the door for him. But you dug your fingernails in your palms and resisted, because you can't just let this opportunity pass by.
You heard a brief clinking sound before Sanji spoke again, "Sweet dreams, ange."
Once his footsteps faded away, you cautiously moved towards your door and opened it as quietly as you can. There, on the floor, was a small plate with a slice of your favorite desert: angel's food cake, topped with fresh cream and strawberries.
You bent down and saw a note beside the plate. And when you got to read the contents of the note, you burst into tears and sobs that wracked down your entire body.
Happy Birthday
— S.
You ate the cake with tears silently falling down your cheeks, and that was the first time you failed to leave Sanji Vinsmoke.
⸻ • ⸻
Today was the day, and you won't allow anyone to ruin it for you.
You had saved enough Berries to travel around the world and sustain yourself for the upcoming months. Your notebook containing the lyrics of the songs you wrote laid open on top of your bed as you spent all night revising them while planning out an itinerary. Then you'll find a place to settle in, a stable job that required doing what you loved the most, and overall just be peaceful and free from pirates and chefs and pirate chefs. It was perfect.
Folded clothes surrounded you everywhere, ready to be packed in your bags. Once you finished stuffing them all in, you grabbed your treasured instrument, the one thing you couldn't live without: your guitar, which has been with you since you were a little child. It was given by your mother and you've been attached to it ever since.
It has scratches all over its wooden surface, and the strings needed some fixing occassionally, but you wouldn't trade it for the greatest treasures in the world. You ran your fingers over it, suddenly feeling like it was lacking something. Seeing the paint chipping off at the corners, you figured that it needed a little color. You'll need lacquer, and paint if you managed to find some.
You set the guitar aside and left your bedroom to head downstairs to the kitchen. As you were about to push the doors open, a loud, angry shout made you stop in your tracks.
"I won't ever become a pathetic waiter for you!" Sanji's thunderous yells can be heard from outside. Your shoulders tensed up. It was a good thing that brunch was over and all the customers had left.
Zeff's own furious voice followed, "Leave then, for all I care! You can do anything you want, but don't you ever serve one of your shit dishes in my kitchen!"
A frown settled on your face. Their fights were a normal occurrence to you, but this one sounded more grave than usual. Crossing your arms, you stepped in closer to the entrance and hesitated whether you should go in or not. Before you could make a decision, Zeff beat you to it by pushing the doors open, rage emanating from his figure as he ignored and walked past you.
Without hesitation this time, you entered the kitchen, greeted by the sight of Sanji bowing over the counter, breathing heavily, his face covered with his hair. He didn't move an inch even as you approached him, the clacking of the heels in your boots echoing throughout the room.
Both of you were silent as you rummaged through cabinets, trying to find lacquer to cover your guitar with, while he tried his best to calm himself down after his outburst. Many cupboards later, you finally found a small can of used up lacquer, but as you started to reach for it, your hand completely stopped mid-air.
You looked over your shoulder, and found Sanji already recovered from the argument seeing that he was on the move again, preparing a cut of beef tenderloin and other ingredients he needed for tonight's dinner.
Slowly, you closed the cupboard and went closer to him. He still refused to look at you. And so you watched him place a bag of flour on the countertop, slices of cold butter, and a variety of spice bottles to season the meat with.
Sanji began to wrap twine around the beef tenderloin. You sighed, and before you could stop yourself, you grabbed a bowl and decided to help him. Your guitar can wait.
It was rare for you to cook inside the kitchen, having so little knowledge about food and how they were prepared, but you knew this recipe well. You poured two cups of flour through the sifter, followed by placing heaps of the cold butter in the mixture.
The moment you started to mix the dough for the puff pastry, Sanji quickly pointed out in a monotone voice, "You're adding too much butter."
You raised your head and glanced at him, his attention now on the meat he was searing on a skillet. You smiled, glad that he was speaking again.
"You're beginning to sound like the old man himself." You joked lightly.
His jaw clenched. "Don't compare me to that shitty geezer."
In a softer voice, you asked, "What happened?"
"The usual." He replied curtly. "Didn't approve of my dishes."
You perked up upon hearing about a dish he made himself. Sanji was talented when it comes to creating his own recipes, and sometimes, you would be the person he chooses to test them out. Every time he lets you taste them, your chest would feel warm and you wouldn't be able to sleep for days because you'll keep replaying it in your head. "What did you make this time?"
"It doesn't matter. He'll never agree to any of them."
"Maybe I can—"
"Drop it. Don't poke your nose in things you're not involved." Sanji cut you off, his hardened gaze meeting your concerned stare. You only blinked at him, straightening up.
"I see." You muttered, eyes landing on the bag of flour. You looked at him, then at the flour, then back at him. A smile began to form on your lips as a devious plan formulated itself in your brain. Sticking your hand inside the bag of flour, you took a fistful of the pillowy powder and threw it straight into his face.
Sanji jumped back, flinching and closing his eyes when some of the flour's particles managed to enter them. His jaw dropped open in surprise, hands quickly removing themselves from the skillet's handle to dust off the flour that rested on his now white hair. You tried to stifle a laugh as you watched him struggle getting the flour out.
Once he managed to clean himself, he stared straight at you and said in the calmest way possible, even if you knew deep inside that he was fuming, "What was that for?"
A high-pitched snort left your mouth. You covered it to prevent yourself from laughing.
You cleared your throat and smiled at him innocently. "Am I involved now?"
His piercing blue eyes then started to sparkle with mirth, amusement replacing the vexation previously swimming in them. He also looked to be trying to push down a smile, and that made your heart skip a beat. "You're insufferable."
He reached for the bag of flour. You squeaked and took off running, trying to escape from his attack, but he still managed to throw a small amount on you. Giggling, you ran the opposite direction to confuse him, and yet he caught up with you, throwing another round of flour. This time, it hit your cheeks, making you laugh loudly. He laughed along, pointing a finger at you because you probably looked crazy at the moment.
You tried to take the bag of flour away from him, but he just took it an as opportunity to catch your arm and grip it firmly. He pulled you into his chest, caging you completely.
With your cheeks warm and your breaths short, you tilted your head up and looked at him, noticing the way that you were both covered in flour; and not only that, you also noticed the short distance between your bodies and how your noses were almost touching. His pupils were dilated, black dominating the alluring blue shade that kept haunting your dreams. You drank in the attention he was giving you, the breathing coming out from his soft lips, and the comfortable silence that wrapped around the both of you like a safe little bubble.
"Caught you." Sanji muttered, voice deeper and huskier, making you let out a quiet sigh. His arms snaked around your waist as he leaned in closer. A million questions started to run inside your head, begging to know what this situation was and how you got into it. "Nowhere to run now, darling."
A slamming of doors shattered the secret moment you shared, and you immediately pulled away from each other. You pushed down your disappointment and hid it in the secret crevice in your heart as the two of you faced your intruder.
Zeff observed your flour-laden figures, his thick eyebrows scrunched together in irritation. He then demanded, voice seething and dripping with anger, "What in the hell are you two little brats doing?"
Sanji blurted out in defense, "Zeff, we—she was the one who started it!"
"And you went along with it!" You accused incredulously, grinning from ear-to-ear. Sanji grinned back, shaking his head and biting his lower lip.
"Oh, shut up before I stitch your mouths! Just by looking at you two, I already know that you snot-nosed shits are both at fault!" Zeff shouted, clicking his tongue at the sight of the half emptied flour. "Wasted them good flour for your childish fights. You're even worse than fatwits. Get out and clean the toilets!"
"Not the shitty toilets!" Sanji groaned, and you couldn't blame him for it. The bathroom area smelled revolting and the floors were always wet for some reason.
"I don't wanna hear complaints from you when you've dirtied my kitchen! Off you go!" Zeff dismissed, and you can't help but to laugh again when you saw Sanji pout like a little kid.
The head chef watched the two of you leave the kitchen together while giggling and exchanging fond looks. Patty, who also saw the whole situation unfold, suddenly appeared beside him, snickering, "I can already hear the wedding bells ringing."
Zeff took a deep, tired breath.
"Oh, they're ringing alright."
You cleaned and scrubbed the toilets the entire afternoon with the man you're in love with, flushing your plans down the drain and forgetting all about them, and that was the second time you failed to leave Sanji Vinsmoke.
⸻ • ⸻
You didn't know how you ended up in a ship full of pirates.
Well, maybe you knew. A little. But it wasn't supposed to be like this.
Your knuckles were beginning to turn white with how tight you were clenching them. A mix of emotions swirled around in your chest, namely confusion, impatience, and hesitation, pondering about whether you should be irritated at yourself or at Sanji.
The opportunity was there, handed to you like a steak on a golden platter, or a miracle that suddenly fell from the sky. The day you met Luffy and his strange pirate crew was the day you immediately realized that he was the key to your exit from the Baratie. He was friendly; a good pirate, according to his own words, so you figured he would allow you to tag along for a while until you find an island to get off to. You just had to ask for his permission and wait for his reply.
Luffy agreed. And you were ecstatic. You were finally going to leave Sanji Vinsmoke and your pathetic, unrequited feelings behind.
Or so you thought.
You watched in horror as he followed you when you boarded the Going Merry, also carrying a bag of his own. He said something along the lines of Luffy needing a cook for the journey to the Grand Line but you couldn't care less. You got here first. Why was he here?
So here you were, sitting in a corner, lonelier than ever and regretting your life decisions. You watched Luffy and his friends celebrate after defeating the pirate Arlong and saving Coco Village from his inhuman hold over its people, but Sanji and the beautiful orange haired Nami were nowhere in sight.
The thought of them being gone together at the same time left a bitter aftertaste on your tongue.
Nami. The first time you laid eyes on her, ethereal was the word that came up to your mind. With soft deep saffron locks that framed her small face and a wide blue eyed gaze, she would have the cruelest of men begging for mercy and affection at her feet.
Unfortunately, Sanji was one of those men.
Fuck, you cursed mentally, rubbing your face with your hands to try and forget about the times he flirted with her and the moments he wouldn't stop talking about her or kept asking about her favorite food or dessert or if she's into blonds. Your already battered heart doesn't need the usual reminder that he'll never see you that way, that you weren't going to experience his sweet words and his loving gazes.
You took a sharp breath. It's okay, you tell yourself over and over again until they were buried in your heart. They'll make a great pair, Sanji the cook and Nami the thief. A strong man with an equally strong woman. Yes. That makes sense.
You'll leave soon anyway, and you'll no longer have to worry about seeing them or how they were going to end up together.
And yet you can't help but to think about the things that could've been if you were the one he was in love with instead.
You were crossing your arms and hugging yourself as the crisp afternoon air was getting chilly when a hand gripping a shot glass filled with amber liquid appeared in front of you. Looking up, you saw Luffy smiling widely at you, waving the glass encouragingly.
"Come on, just one drink! Usopp poured this for you!" The captain exclaimed heartily, obviously trying to uplift your spirits and to make you feel welcomed in his crew, even though you did nothing but to guard the Going Merry while they were fighting for their lives.
You shook your head and smiled politely. "No, I don't drink. Sorry."
Luffy's smile faltered, but he recovered quickly. He nodded, setting the glass down on top of a barrel. "Well, okay." He said, then turned to Usopp, who was currently downing a whole bottle of whiskey. "Hey, where's Nami?"
"Oh, she's with the cook," Usopp replied cheekily, wiping his mouth after drinking. There was a teasing tone in his voice as he continued, "Someone's getting a boyfriend tonight!"
With that said, you reached for the shot glass that Luffy was offering you earlier, grabbed it swiftly, and poured the whole thing down your throat. The whiskey tasted unfamiliar, and it burned and made you dizzy at first taste, but it doesn't matter; as long as it can make you forget just for a little while, you were willing to drink more of the horrible beverage.
Zoro, the green haired swordsman and the captain's first mate, stared at you as if you had lost your mind, but a tinge of concern was visibly written on his face. "Woah, slow down." He warned sternly.
"I thought you didn't drink." Was all Luffy said, blinking in confusion. You chuckled tiredly.
"Now I do."
Drink after drink, glass after glass. You lost count on how many times Usopp poured whiskey for you, or how many times Zoro shook his head in disbelief. Luffy was the same old happy-go-lucky captain throughout the disaster that was starting to brew inside you, turning your brain into mush. You can barely lift your head or your fingers as you asked for another shot in an incoherent voice. Luckily, Usopp was still able to understand you, tipping the whiskey bottle yet again towards your glass.
You started to raise the glass to your lips, eager to just get severely drunk and be over with it already. However, you suddenly felt strong fingers wrap around your wrist to stop you from drinking; and when you caught sight of a familiar silver ring with Baratie's jolly roger inlaid upon it, you didn't need to look up to know who it was.
Sanji's voice was unnervingly calm as he questioned the crew, but the slight shake in his words lets you know otherwise. "Which one of you allowed her to drink?"
"No one. She took the glass and made the decision herself." Zoro drawled, challenging the chef, "The last time I checked, waiter, you were supposed to be the one responsible for her."
Sanji ignored him and turned his attention to you. He stole the shot glass away from you, then kneeled and held your hands comfortingly, smiling. "Come on, ange. It's time for you to rest now." He said quietly, yet loud enough for only you to hear.
You stubbornly shook your head repeatedly and whined loudly. "No! Don't touch me!" You cried, prying your hands away from his, "I don't like you...!"
Zoro huffed in amusement at your declaration. Sanji glared at him for a short second before looking at you again. This time, he stood and gently placed his arms under your shoulders to raise you up. Once you were standing on your feet, he swept you up and carried you bridal style with ease. Another whine escaped your lips.
"Put me down! I want another drink, please, just one more!" You pleaded while throwing weak punches on his chest. Sanji only smiled and began to lead you towards the sleeping quarters. You continued to thrash in his arms as he walked slowly and in small steps so he wouldn't drop you.
Sanji carefully set you down on your hammock. "No drinks for you until you actually learn how to take them." He told you, tucking a stray piece of your hair behind your ear. His thumb caressed the soft skin of your cheek and rubbed it in circles, noting how fast you were heating up due to the alcohol. You pouted.
"Pretty please, Sanji...please..."
He chuckled, staring at you intensely. "Maybe some other time, ange."
You went quiet, staring back at him with half-lidded eyes. Then, you crossed your arms like a child and asked, "Why do you keep calling me that?"
Sanji raised a brow. "Call you what? Ange?"
You nodded. "I don't like it."
He began to smile, the dimples on his cheeks appearing. You briefly wondered if he'd allow you to poke and feel them. "Why?"
"I don't know what it means. Is it an insult?" You wondered aloud, your eyes widening in curiosity.
A hearty and warm laugh came out from Sanji, his eyes forming half-moons as he cackled at your words like they were the biggest joke he heard in his entire life, "Oh, my dear girl, how could I possibly insult you?" He managed to speak between laughs, "It means angel. You're an angel, to me at least. My angel."
Oh.
Your lips parted in surprise. Blinking, you simply said, "You're not Sanji."
He's not Sanji. He wouldn't call you angel; you're not even sure if he found you beautiful or attractive. You wear the same old tattered dresses that Zeff bought for you a long time ago, and you didn't even bother to style your hair or put on face powder like all the other beautiful ladies do. You look nowhere near to an angel.
But Sanji only grinned. "I assure you, I am very much Sanji. The little brat who pulled your hair when we were barely eleven years old."
Your breath hitched at the thought of him remembering one of your fond memories in your childhood. "You remembered."
"Of course I remembered." He whispered, cupping your cheek one last time before he got ready to leave. He turned on his heel and was about to walk away when you spoke.
"Are you going to see her again?" You asked, and he quickly noticed how broken your voice sounded. Sanji faced you in concern and was taken aback with how deep you were frowning. He figured that you were just drunk and women tend to be different when they were intoxicated. You were no exception to that, it seemed.
"Hm?" He hummed, prompting you to elaborate further.
Tears began to form in the corners of your eyes. You shakily mumbled, "Nami...you're going to Nami, aren't you?"
Sanji froze, an icy cold rush filling up his body. A knot formed in his throat, and it continued to tighten the longer he stared at your face. You looked so hurt—like he just destroyed your beloved guitar into pieces. Your lower lips were trembling, your eyes glistening with unshed tears. For a moment, he couldn't find the courage to answer you, feeling like he could die at any second now if he answers your question.
But the answer was simple.
"Yes." He breathed out, a sharp pain stabbing through his heart.
And it only became worse when a teardrop finally rolled down your cheek. "Why?" You rasped, and Sanji didn't know that a single word can hurt this much.
He tried to give you a reassuring smile but awfully failed to do so. He started to explain, "We were just discussing something—"
"Why not me?"
Those three words coming out of your mouth felt like a final blow to his heart. He can feel himself bleed, drained of life and soul because of you and your words alone, and he let you. He let you kill him, he let you make him swim in his own guilt and he doesn't why, why, why.
More tears fell out of your angelic eyes, staining your cheeks with wet trails, and he tried to hold himself back from wiping them off. You choked out, "Why not me, Sanji? I have been asking myself that question for the past decade, and it eats my brain every night like some kind of plague, but I let it anyway. Because why? Why can't you just recognize me and appreciate me and see me? Why can't you go to me if you want to talk about your dreams, or what dish you're planning to create? Why do you have to seek solace in other women when you have me standing by your side everyday, me who is willing to listen to you and whatever you have to say?"
Angry, red rimmed eyes glared at him. Your hair strands stuck to your skin and framed your face as sweat began to form on your forehead. Teardrops clung to your wet eyelashes and your face was drenched like you just took a swim in the ocean. You were burning with fury and rage and want, struggling to breathe properly after your little rant, and Sanji thought you couldn't be more beautiful. You were so beautiful.
"Oh but I couldn't blame you for that. She's just so beautiful, so perfect, and so strong. She could give you anything you wanted and she could be anything that I never was." You hiccuped, smiling forcibly, "But in the end...I will still love you. I will always love you. I think."
You scooted closer to him, leaning in until your faces only had a few inches apart between them. You didn't notice how his lips were slightly parted in shock, nor his eyes that were starting to glisten with his own tears. "No matter where I flee to, or where I lay my heart on, or which skies I look at—it's always you, Sanji. It's always been you."
"I had been so selfless all these years, Sanji. So please, can you pretend to like me too, just for today, before I leave?" You whispered meekly, cupping his cheeks with both of your hands. Numb and completely speechless, Sanji simply gave you a single nod as a response.
You gingerly pressed your lips against his, and he immediately tasted the saltiness of your tears. But your lips were soft, as he expected from an angel like you. And so he couldn't help himself; he closed his eyes and delicately kissed you back, repeating your name in his mind like a sacred prayer and wishing to the stars above to not let the moment end.
However, you broke the kiss by losing consciousness and falling down on your hammock, knocked out and peacefully snoring.
Sanji spaced out, not moving from his position. No. It's not that he didn't want to move—he couldn't move. He couldn't feel anything except for the drumming of his heart, knocking on his chest desperately. His lips were still tingling and his ears and neck were warming up.
He gulped, loosening the collar of his shirt to cool himself down. He needed a cigarette. And a drink.
Scrambling to get up even with his trembling legs, Sanji managed to stand properly. He avoided your sleeping figure and decided to get out of the room as soon as possible. However, when he took a step forward, his foot touched a notebook lying on the floor.
Sanji bent down and took the notebook. He flipped it open, and after reading only the first page, he finally came into a conclusion.
Heartbroken, drunk, and unaware, you dozed off the rest of the afternoon. When nightfall settled on the azure horizon and dusk fell on the rough surface of the sea, you missed the chance to walk away from the crew yet again; and that was the third time you failed to leave Sanji Vinsmoke.
⸻ • ⸻
The next morning, you woke up feeling much better with only the memory of you drinking and crying yourself to sleep and nothing else. Everything was normal, and the crew began to make plans for their next adventure during breakfast.
Everything was normal, except for Sanji, who was quiet throughout the whole discussion. And of course, just like always, you were the only one who noticed his strange behavior. You tried to catch his eyes, but he looked at everywhere except you.
When he finally met your gaze, you gave him a soft smile, hoping he would smile back and everything was fine and you were just overthinking it.
He doesn't.
⸻ • ⸻
"Are you really going to leave?"
Taking your gaze away from the heart shaped cloud you spotted on the clear blue sky, you faced the person who asked the question you were dreading for some time now. Luffy was staring curiously at you, awaiting your answer. You can't help but to smile softly at the captain, whose kindness you have yet to repay.
"I believe we already talked about this, captain." You said, recalling your short conversation last night. He kept asking you if you were really sure about your decision while his eyes darted to a certain blond haired chef every time he shoots you the question. It was strange, and you felt even more suspicious when Sanji pretended not to hear your answer and even refused to glance your way.
Luffy put his hands on his hips. "You know, you're welcome to stay and be a part of my crew."
You crossed your arms, smile growing wide. "And what, pray tell, is my role? Sing battle songs and chant your names while you swing your gummy arms at pirates?" You joked playfully.
The young captain stroked his chin in deep thought, almost like he was considering your suggestion. "That's not a bad idea."
You bursted out laughing, shaking your head in disbelief, "I'll leave first thing in the morning. I told Nami to dock at a nearby island."
"What about Sanji?" He suddenly questioned, leaving you flabbergasted for a split second. You weren't prepared to hear Sanji's name after days of not talking to him properly.
Him not speaking with you wasn't a strange occurence at all; back when you were still in the Baratie, there would be days when Sanji wouldn't bother to acknowledge your presence and would completely ignore you. This would happen whenever he was extremely busy with his cooking or he had a disagreement with Zeff.
And it seemed like this was one of those days, seeing that he had been ignoring you for about a week now. Yes, you have been keeping count. Although he doesn't appear to be angry with you, the short-lived exchanges and the abrupt cut-offs before you could say anything deeply concerned you more than it should have.
You tried to rack your brains for reasons on why he was acting like this. Maybe Nami had rejected him for the hundredth time, or Zoro kept throwing insults in his direction—or maybe his cigarette packet had ran out. Maybe his kitchen knives weren't sharp anymore and he was struggling in the kitchen.
Should you ask him? Should you go to him and demand him to tell you what's wrong?
You pressed your lips together. It sounded like the worst idea you've thought of so far. You convinced yourself that Sanji was fine and he'd be back to normal in no time; there would no need to talk to him.
"What about him?" You faltered, chuckling to ease the tension in your body.
"You care for each other." Luffy explained bluntly and matter-of-factly, "What does he think about you leaving?"
A shaky sigh made its way out of your lips. How will you tell the captain that his cook has been avoiding you like you were some kind of rotten fish these days?
"I..." You stammered, gathering the courage to lie to Luffy even if you thought it would be the gravest sin you could commit, "He...agrees. Yeah. No need to worry."
Luffy grinned, but it didn't look normal at all. You winced in embarrassment. He knew that you were lying and was totally unconvinced.
Luckily, he didn't voice it out. He only nodded and said, "Great! Oh, I have an idea! Why don't you sing for us before we part ways? Think of it as a farewell party for the crew."
Hearing the pure and genuine excitement dripping from his voice, you couldn't turn him down. It was a good idea too, and now that you thought about it, you haven't performed for them yet. "Sure." You agreed, shrugging.
He raised his fist up in the air and cheered. You smiled, watching as he shouted for his crewmates' names to come down and listen to you sing. You prepared yourself for an impromptu performance, making sure that your guitar was properly tuned and your voice was clear enough to give you the best version of your singing. Sitting on top of a barrel, you faced your audience of four, all their eager eyes watching your every move.
As you struck the first chord to your song, you tried hard not to think that Sanji wasn't there to watch you sing the song you secretly dedicate to him.
In the kitchen, Sanji busied himself by plating the food that he'll serve to his fellow crew mates for dinner. He grabbed a large plate and placed the chicken drumsticks that his captain favored, but Luffy wasn't the one in his mind when he cooked those. Looking at the food, he wondered if you would love them too.
He shook his thoughts off and took the plate with him outside. Approaching the crew, his steps slowed down when he heard a familiar singing voice and a melodic tune of a guitar.
Sanji almost dropped the plate.
It was you. Of course it was you, you were the only one he knew who had a voice like that. It was you, and you were singing with a lovely smile painted on your sweet lips, the very same lips that touched his a few days ago, resulting in him not getting a wink of sleep every night. The beam of the sunset right behind you colored your hair in the different shades of the sky as the dulcet-filled notes you made echoed throughout the vast sea. For a moment, he was worried that you were going to attract ferocious sea beasts with your angelic voice and steal you away from him.
He could hear his blood pound in his ears the longer he observed you from afar. You looked happy. Happier than you were when you stayed with him and Zeff. His chest tightened, knowing that you leaving and go on adventures on your own was probably the best decision you could make, even if that means leaving him too.
You were finishing up your song by the time you saw Sanji standing behind Usopp, silently listening. He met your gaze, and for the first time ever, you couldn't read his mind. His expression was blank as you stared at each other, and as you opened your mouth to say something, he cut you off.
"Dinner's ready." Sanji announced shortly, setting down the plate in front of Luffy and then walked away without saying another word.
That was your final straw. You immediately put down your guitar and followed him into the kitchen. You didn't care about how you felt Nami's watchful eyes on you as you went after him, nor how Luffy was scarfing down the dinner and was definitely going to finish it all before you could take a bite; you just chased the blond with determination oozing out of you.
You roughly pushed the door open and found Sanji washing the pans he used for cooking. He glanced at you briefly then quickly looked away after. This irritated you even more as you demanded, "Is there something bothering you?"
"You should eat before the food gets cold." He said with an empty voice.
"Sanji!"
He stiffened. You rarely raised your voice at anyone. Sighing in defeat, he dried off his hands and fully faced you.
Your eyes were sharper than his knives, cutting straight into his soul. "I've known you for a long time now, do you think I don't notice whenever you have a problem?" You glowered, taking a step closer to him, "You have a problem. What is it?"
It happened fast. His hand landed on the small of your back and pulled you to his chest, and the other was placed on top of your cheek, and in a single motion, Sanji captured your lips with his. You gasped in the kiss, your heart dropping to the soles of your feet when he tilted his face to deepen it. Your fingers tightly grasped the sleeves of his shirt for support as he passionately moved his lips against yours. A pleasant heat ran down your spine, your whole body tingling and warming up. You were simply drowning. There was no other way to describe it, and it was only caused by his fervent kisses.
Sanji pulled away, resting your forehead on top of yours, and you took it as an opportunity to breathe in air that you lost. "You are the problem." He murmured lowly, eyes darting down to your swollen lips. Confused and lightheaded, you didn't get the chance to retort.
"Ever since that night, ange, you occupy my thoughts. You gave me a taste of your lips and you didn't even remember the next day. Do you know how that feels, hm?" He said, pecking your lips once again. You made a noise in the back of your throat, turning your head sideways so he couldn't kiss you anymore, but he took your chin and hungrily connected both of your lips.
He spoke between kisses, "You torture me. Ever since I read those songs you wrote about me in that little notebook of yours, you torture me with your presence."
That was when you snapped out of your daze. With all the force you could muster, you placed your hands on his chest and pushed him away. Sanji stepped back, surprised at your reaction.
Without giving him a chance to ask you anything, you ran off and left the kitchen, slamming the door loudly so you wouldn't hear him calling your name and be tempted to go back in his arms again.
You arrived in the sleeping quarters, locking the door behind you. You were sure that the others would understand you needing your alone time. Once you made sure you were on your own, your body collapsed altogether, your back sliding down against the door as you panted heavily.
He knows, was all you could think about. He knows about the songs. He knows about your feelings.
Well, you finally got your answer to your previous question, but a more complicated one replaced it. With trembling hands, your fingers raised themselves to your lips, touching its surface. You hated the way that you still felt his warmth on top of them.
A lone tear slid down the side of your nose. He was cruel. Sanji was cruel.
You didn't come out of that room for days, refusing to talk to anyone as you gathered your scrambled throughts and pulled yourself back together, and that was the fourth time you failed to leave Sanji Vinsmoke.
⸻ • ⸻
A stack of books, most of them being a collection of maps compiled in one, rested beside you while you flipped through the pages of the one you chose among them.
Nami has been lending you her books ever since you shut yourself out from the crew. You ignored all of them and only let Nami in, hoping that she'll be able to understand you; and she did. She was a good listener. Although you weren't particularly close with each other, you trusted her and told her everything: your dreams, your problems, your feelings, and Sanji. In return, she confided in you too.
"Here. So you can finally decide on where you will go to," You recall her saying while she handed you her collection of world map books, "and to distract yourself, of course."
"You're too kind, Nami." You said in admiration. Maybe this is why Sanji was enamored with her. She was a beauty inside and out.
Nami shrugged, yet she was smiling. "Just helping a fellow woman out."
The books did take your mind off the stubborn blond haired man that was still resting inside your heart, even if it was only for a fleeting moment. You tried to search for islands that will be suitable for you to start your career, narrowing some of them down into choices, but your eyes wil always lead back to where the Baratie was stationed.
You leaned back against your chair, letting your head hit the wall with a soft thud as you released a sigh of frustration. Not only will you need to prepare yourself for a journey all alone, but you also have to talk to Sanji sooner or later, whether you like it or not. The kiss distracted you more than the books Nami gave you. You think of it in the morning and dream of it at night, and it only got worse every time you remembered that he kissed you like he loved you.
Relaxing in your seat, you closed the book and listened to the silence.
The Going Merry docked for a quick trip to a market to gather fresh ingredients for food. Sanji will be gone for the meantime and you were free to roam around the ship without his heated stare boring holes in your skin.
But the peace was ruined by rushed footsteps and Usopp breaking into the room, almost destroying the door with his brute force. You frowned, standing up on alert when you saw how nervous he looked.
"Sanji's injured!" He exclaimed, which got your brow raising, knowing that he had a long history of lying to people. However, he forcibly pulled Sanji inside, and you were greeted by the sight of a bruised man, whose lips were bleeding and cheeks were starting to yellow.
You immediately sprang into action. You took the first aid kit you packed in your bag and grabbed his arm, making him sit down on your chair.
"How did you get into a fight in just a span of ten minutes?" You asked in irritation, wetting a cloth with saltwater to wipe off the blood on his lips.
Sanji grunted, tensing up when you took a hold of his face and dabbed on his lip using the cloth. "Some petty vendor was selling overpriced onions, and they weren't even the best of quality."
You stopped for a minute, glaring at him. "So you decided to punch them instead of talking it over?"
He only huffed in reply. Pursing your lips in annoyance, you continued to treat his wounds in silence, noticing him flinching and wincing in pain whenever you compress the bruised area with ice. "Who's being petty now?" You scolded impatiently, "Stay still."
The only sound that filled the room was you hastily rummaging your kit trying to find an ointment and an awkward silence that made you want to jump into the sea and never swim back to the surface. You unscrewed the lid of the jar of ointment and scooped some with your finger, looking at Sanji as you did so. He looked back at you quietly, and you tried hard not to think about the fact that you have to touch his lips in order for you to apply it.
It seemed like he realized that too, glancing down at the dollop of ointment on top of your finger, then back to you. You just gave him a small, uneasy smile, showing him that you weren't uncomfortable even though you were, and shyly took a step forward.
As gently as you could, you spread the ointment on the wounded area on his lips, reminding yourself to not be distracted on how soft they looked.
"A busted lip because of overpriced ingredients...it almost feels like you're doing this on purpose so I wouldn't get the chance to leave you." You half-heartedly joked to lighten up the atmosphere. However, you were greeted by nothing, not even a smart comeback or a funny joke from the blond. You hesitantly observed his reaction, and saw that he was grim and serious, guilt swimming in his beryl blue eyes.
The realization began to sink in.
Oh.
You should've known from the start. Sanji was a great fighter; he wouldn't be injured in the first place. "Sanji..."
Sanji took your wrist and held on it tightly. Your breath hitched, only then realizing how much you missed his touch, his warm, gentle, and loving touch.
"Let me go." You weakly said, even though deep down, you didn't want him to.
"Tell me you're not in love with me." He said, sounding utterly desperate that it almost made you fall down to your knees, "Tell me, and I'll let you go."
When you didn't answer, he stood up and cupped your cheeks with both of his hands. He pleaded, "Look at me. Look into my eyes and tell me you don't love me."
"Please don't do this." You whispered in pain as you tearfully shook your head.
"Stay. Please, stay." Sanji begged, pressing his forehead against yours, "What can I do to make you stay? Tell me. I'll do anything. Do I need to kneel? To beg for your forgiveness? Tell me what you want. I'll do anything in my power to make you the happiest woman in all of East Blue. Just please, don't leave."
"I can't." You answered, closing your eyes, a few tears streaming down your cheeks. You hate the way he was making this so hard for you.
He only continued, "Hate me, curse me, shout at me, if you must. Anything but you leaving me. Or do you want to make me yours? Then I am letting you. Whatever you want, mon ange—my heart, my soul, my attention, they're all yours. I'm all yours."
"No..."
"The crew will be incomplete without you." Sanji insisted in anguish.
"I have dreams, Sanji. Just like you and the rest of the crew." You explained softly, placing your own hands on top of his in attempt to comfort him and relieve him from his confusion.
However, he was persistent, "You can achieve your dreams without leaving. You can stay, and I will support you in everything you do. You're better off staying with me—with us."
You said firmly, "I will not spend the rest of my life doing what I don't want."
"Even with me by your side?"
A few second pass before you finally reply, "I'd be miserable."
Pain flashed on his face, making you want to take back your own words, yet you remained strong and unyielding. Sanji took a deep breath and stepped away from you, saying, "I'd rather have you miserable here than go out there and encounter ruthless pirates."
The statement quickly irritated you, frowning at him deeply. "You think I'll have problems with pirates when I've been serving them for years?"
"Oh, darling, you wouldn't be able to say that once you've encountered worse ones, with bounties higher than you could ever imagine." He snapped, voice raising with each word.
"I can manage on my own!" You bit back frustratingly, your tears evaporating into anger.
Sanji scowled at you, impatiently running his fingers through his hair. "You can't fight!" He shouted, voice breaking in the process, and with it, your heart too. It shattered like glass and the shards landed and pierced through your lungs, rendering you breathless. Your eyes widened, mouth dropping open in shock.
Seeing your expression, he immediately snapped back to reality, regret writing itself on his face. You shook your head in disbelief and let out a humorless laugh, "Are you telling me that I'm weak?"
"I didn't say that." Sanji quickly said in a hushed manner.
"But you're implying it!" You choked, still can't believe that he doesn't trust you. He doesn't trust you enough to accomplish your dreams on your own, and that he was not confident that you'll succeed without him by your side.
You wanted to ask him about the passionate kiss you two shared, about his loving gestures that confused the hell out of you, about his fresh bruises that he received on purpose so that he can get you to stay, and why he did all of that. You needed confirmation. But the question that left you was, "What am I to you?"
Sanji stayed quiet, and your heart broke again once more. Deciding that this was the last time he breaks it, you walked away and left him alone to tend to his own injuries.
He lit up a cigarette as he listened to your fading footsteps. A single teardrop fell down from his eye the moment he placed the cigarette between his lips, and all he could think about was that you hurt more than the bruises on his cheeks.
You packed your bags and spoke with Nami, telling her that you were ready, and that was the fifth time you tried to leave Sanji Vinsmoke—and tomorrow, you'll finally succeed.
⸻ • ⸻
The sun had just risen, and the early morning breeze smelled of the ocean, the calming sound of waves filling your ears. It was one of those days when the sky was clear and the sunlight wasn't harsh but pleasantly warm on your skin, making it the perfect day to start working on a new song and strum on your guitar for the melody.
But today was different. You were standing on the first step of the ship's staircase that leads to a docking station and a wooden walkway towards an unfamiliar island that was soon to be your new home. Your fingers clenched on the strap of your bag, finding this moment to be surreal. You have tried many times to leave, and here it was, right on the palms of your hands.
"So. This is it, huh?" Your trance broke as Nami commented beside you. She was the only one to bid you farewell and watch you leave, since the others were still asleep. You thought of Sanji and how he looked like when he was sleeping, staring at his handsome features so you can memorize them and implant it in your mind. He was your first love; you didn't want to forget him.
You smiled. "Thank you, Nami." You said earnestly, "I would've liked to spend more time with you. It's tiring to speak to men sometimes, don't you think?"
She laughed. "Yeah." Then, she caged you in her arms and hugged you tightly, surprising you for a second before you laughed too and returned the hug. "Stay safe out there."
"I will."
"So you planned to leave? Without saying goodbye?" A new voice interrupted, breaking the hug you and Nami both shared. You swiveled to look behind you, and there stood Sanji, appearing to have just woken up, with the strands of his blond hair sticking up in different directions. You observed his dejected expression, the downward tilt of the corners of his lips, and the glistening of his tired eyes. You stared at his crumpled suit and his crooked necktie. Despite how messy he looked, he will always be perfect to you.
You walked forward and looked at him fondly, with your eyes full of so much love reserved for him and him only. "Thought it would hurt less." You said, raising your hands to touch his hair and brush it down, "And I was right. How can I leave now when you're standing in front of me?"
He sighed shakily as he felt your soft fingers threading through his hair. "Then don't." He whispered. You only smiled at him. He didn't smile back, but that didn't stop you from taking both of his hands and caressing his knuckles using your thumb.
"Every night, I'll look at the moon and think of you. I'll tell my stories, sing my songs, and whisper my secrets to it. Just like what you and me would do when we were little." You told him softly and endearingly, "Would you be so kind as to look at the moon too and think of me?"
Sanji's eyebrows were scrunched together in agony, muttering, "I can't make you stay, can I?"
When you didn't answer, he just nodded his head, understanding what you wanted to stay. He forced a smile and tightly squeezed your hands. "I'm sorry."
"I'm yours." You answered, placing a soft kiss on the back of his hands. After letting your lips linger on his skin for a while, you slowly let go, and with one last glance at his face, you stepped back and made your way downstairs to the docking area, leaving before you could change your mind.
Sanji watched you go. While you walked away from the Going Merry, from the crew, and from him, not once did you look back. He just watched as you went farther away and became smaller in the distance, until you blended in with the crowd and you were just another person in a sea of people. And then you were gone.
It was the sixth time you tried to leave Sanji Vinsmoke, and this time, you finally did.
⸻ • ⸻
The red velvet curtains began to draw in front of you, gently falling back down on the stage as you said your final good-byes to your audience for tonight, a bouquet of roses cradled in your arms while you blew delicate kisses towards them. You can still hear their loud cheering and clapping even as you retreated to your personal room backstage.
A middle-aged woman greeted you inside when you stepped in the room and closed the door behind you, whistling. "There she is, our talented rising star!"
You only laughed at the silly nickname, setting the bouquet of roses that one of the people gave you in tonight's show on top of your vanity table. "You exaggerate, Madam. I have only performed two shows in your beautiful theater."
The madam, who was the owner of the theater you were currently working in, shook her head in disagreement. "And those two shows are sold out!" She informed you proudly, placing her hands on your shoulders, "Let me know if you want to add more, you are welcome to perform here anytime."
"I'll think about it." You replied, smiling. The madam patted your shoulder twice before she left you alone, humming happily to herself. You huffed in amusement, fully aware that she doesn't appreciate your talents at all, but only cared for the money.
Regardless of that, you were happy. It has been a couple of years since you left the Strawhat Pirates and pursued your dreams all on your own, and you've been traveling to different islands across the seas to perform. You never had a permanent home; being a musician meant going to many places from time to time to share and spread out your music.
Yet you can't help but miss life on the sea.
You missed washing dishes on the Baratie and the late night conversations you had with Zeff. You missed Luffy and his weird antics, Usopp and his jokes, Zoro and his blunt comments, and Nami and her kindness.
You missed Sanji and everything that he was.
You stared at your reflection in the vanity mirror on your desk. Your hair was pinned neatly, you had make-up on and you were dressed fancily for your performance. Years ago, you wouldn't look like this. It was hard to believe how much you've grown and changed, but these days, you felt like you wanted your old self back. Slowly, you took the itchy pins off your hair, and cleaned your face with warm water and a cloth. You replaced your dress in a more comfortable one and went outside.
Looking up at the night sky, you saw a bright full moon with no stars in sight. It was just the moon and its beauty, illuminating the pitch black sky with its glow. You silently watched it, a smile growing on your lips as you felt a tug on your heart.
"I wonder what you're up to, Sanji." You thought aloud, cheeks heating up at the memory of your first love and his golden hair and his contagious smiles. Then, to your surprise, a voice spoke unexpectedly.
"Well, I am fortuitous to have met such a beautiful angel."
You froze. No one referred to you as angel except for one.
Sanji.
As you turned around, he was already walking towards you. And there you both were, bathing under the moonlight, with him grinning at you mischievously and you looking at him lovingly. You didn't know how he found you, but what mattered was that he searched for you and now he was here, and he was still making your heart beat fast in your chest just like all those years ago.
How the pesky feelings stayed and wrapped themselves around your aching heart, you didn't know. But maybe it was because he was standing in front of you, and the way his next words made you run into his open arms and kiss him until you were both breathless,
The Straw Hats dock at an island and Sanji gets wrapped up in the rosy eyed, overly doted-on, little sister of the island's town
Warnings/Notes/Tags: Fluff, angst if you squint?? Lowk angst at the end but not sad ending. Once again set in pre-timeskip and/or also outside of canon?? (cuz im not caught up) and can apply to OPLA Sanji and anime sanji but more leaning towards OPLA. Also a lot of bullshi food science for fictional food i made up. not proofread.
WC: 5.3k
The Grand Line was unpredictable, different islands every pirate had to deal with once taking on the challenge of finding the One Piece. Although there were many very dangerous islands, amongst all the different kinds there was the little town on the island of Starry Reefs.
It was a small island populated by a little town. Originating from nomads of the Grand Line who decided to settle on the bountiful land, the people now live to help along the sailors and even pirates that stopped by. It was a welcoming place, peacefully coexisting with those who stopped by; not wanting any trouble and yet housing strong enough people that could stand their ground against the more dangerous.
The Straw Hats first docked in order to reset the log pose as well as to restock their inventory, the usual deal. They were surprised with the lively and welcoming town, so much so that they were on guard from the last time they were in an overly welcoming town. This one was more calm however, not throwing them any big welcoming parties and instead just showing them where to buy what, and where they could stay for the meantime.
They got settled, everyone dispersing to find what they needed on their first day there. The cook, obviously, went to go stock up on food and try the local cuisine.
He strolled the markets, taking free samples from every stall and buying the usual ingredients. In his stroll of the market, he comes across an unmanned stall, product just laying there which could've been surprisingly easy to just steal. He would never do that though, more concerned than anything.
He examines the product for a bit, the display still full. Whoever it was they were selling strange pastries. Breads that were infused with herbs, muffins that were laced with colorful ribbons of syrup, anything of the like. He recognized some herbs, ones that were unique to this island, ones that were medicinal but also ones that were known for being avoided. Plants that made people itch and ones that stung the eyes were IN the food! It intrigued him enough to keep waiting for a stall owner.
He looks around once more and finally noticed a woman racing back. Your hair was a mess from the wind and your clothes were all ruffled as you tried to tame your appearance when you arrived, "Oh! A customer! Woah, sorry, I wasn't expecting anyone today" You said sheepishly.
Suave as ever, he leans in with a smile, "All good, I'd wait a hundred years for such a beautiful woman to show up"
That makes you blush and giggle, fiddling with the flap of your blouse before you snap out of it and get back to the task at hand. "Oh, right! So these are my creations, I bake with herbs and fruits no one really uses. I find techniques to make it work and it gives very interesting flavors. I know it seems a little strange but it's really good if you gave it a chance!"
You cringe internally, your pitch sounding a little more desperate than intended. No one has bought anything yet and you were starting to get discouraged but you really did believe in what you were selling.
You notice how he looks at it curiously and you pipe up once again, "Wanna try a sample? Here, try the Yellowfruit Roll." You cut a piece of it as you explain, "They are usually incredibly sour and bitter but I found if you crush it, carefully extract the juices, and mix it with sugar, and surprisingly, the juice of bitter greens, something happens that makes it sweet and a little savoury"
You ramble on as he takes the bite, too nervous to see his reaction. You eventually quiet down, nervously watching him figure out what he's tasting.
"That is such an interesting flavor." He says, brows furrowed like he's trying to figure it out
You smile when he says that because now you know he's giving it a chance and not rejecting a complex flavor. "Isn't it?"
You present the other pastries, now more confident, "I have Stinging Pine Bread too. It's made with stinging pine that was washed in saltwater and lemon which gives it a much bearable flavor. It's salty but there's something else that hits the back of your throat"
You hand him the sample and watch when he realize just what hidden flavor you're talking about. "This is amazing," he says, stunned.
You beam, rambling as you list down the other products and their prices. He takes a few of each and it already sells most of your stock. You put it all in a basket and hand it to him, trying not to react at the way his fingers brush against yours.
He adds it to his wagon of food and pulls money from his pocket. Your giddiness from finally earning something gets interrupted when he hands you the money and shaking his hand just for him to turn your hand over and pressing a kiss to the back of it.
"You are a lovely baker, my dear. Such a way with food, you have to take me into that mind of yours sometime"
Your face burns and you're taken aback but you giggle all the same as an instinctive response. You can feel the other people's eyes on you, watching as you fall for another flirt's advances. You couldn't help yourself from giving in to the sweet words every time.
"Maybe we can arrange something" You respond, noticing the smile on his face grow a little more and the newfound sparkle in his eyes at your acceptance.
He lets go of your hand and you already miss the warmth. You wave him goodbye and he winks at you before he leaves.
-
You gush about it to your family, well the people you considered family. The whole village raised you, they were all like your big brothers and sisters. You went back to the bed and breakfast inn you lived in with what's left of your inventory, looking for your 'older sister.'
"Mimika!" You call, interrupting her from organizing papers. You present her the wagon, low on product, "I sold so much today!"
She walks over and ruffles your hair, hugging you, "That's great! I wonder what kind of people are in town today that actually like your stuff" She snickers
You pout and hit her playfully, "You're so mean! Plus, it wasn't a weird group of people, it was this handsome pirate chef." You cross your arms, a giddy grin growing on your face
She looks at you unamused, "Not again,"
You stop her right there, "Hey! I'm not falling as easily this time. That last guy was just a bum. This guy is way nicer though, but don't worry, I'm gonna see what his deal is before crushing again"
She scoffs, going back to her papers, "Crushing? More like falling in love with another fling who's gonna leave after their log pose resets"
Ouch, that kinda hurt. She could tell, her face softening, "I'm sorry but you really have to stop thinking every guy in the one. I love you sis but you believe in love way too much"
You sigh, "I know. Don't worry, I won't take this one too seriously"
She nods with a smile, "Attagirl"
You go on your way, leaving the room to bring your leftover pastries back to your kitchen. Kitchen was a strong word for it, there was a stove and an oven, but it was mostly a mess of random appliances, some not even ones that belong in a kitchen, to experiment on the plants for your baking. With renewed energy, you spend the rest of the day making more and different pastries.
-
The next time you two meet is when you were visiting the local herb and spice vendor. Your specialty was unique ingredients but even sometimes you had to use the usual to make it work. Yes you had your own garden but you didn't have ALL the ones you needed; and to be honest, you also forgot to water some of them sometimes.
You spy him examining the table and even haggling for more bags of them for a certain price. You snicker behind him as you approach, amused at their back and forth. Finally, you made your presence known, standing next to him and smiling at your dear friend, the vendor.
"Aww c'mon, Riu, just give him a few more bags. It wouldn't hurt, I've seen your basil farm" You say cheekily
He jumps slightly at your presence before smiling, "Hello, again"
You glance at him with a "Hi" before smiling expectantly at Riu.
Riu rolls his eyes with a scoff before tossing some extra bags across the table. You smile at him contagiously until an endearing smirk grew on his face as well. "You're the best, Riu!"
You add the pouches to Sanji's wagon, today filled with another set of ingredients as he paid. He pulled the wagon with him as you both walked side by side.
"So, what's on the list today?" You start, making conversation
He shrugs, "I just need a few more boxes of spice, I already have meat and vegetables yesterday and bought sacks of rice and grain today." He answers politely, giving you a charming smile
You return it, along with an offer. "If you'd like some things unique to the island, I could let you raid some plants from my garden"
That made his eyes light up, "How could I say no to such an offer" he says, offering his elbow for you to hold. You take it and with the wagon in tow he playfully bows with his head, "Lead the way m'lady"
You do so, bringing him to the back of the inn you lived at and to a secret fenced area. You open it with a mechanic only you knew how to work and let him walk in.
You point out the sections and different groups of potted plants.
"This is the yellowfruit, and that's the stinging pine. These are my other fruits the alphines, redfruit, purbury, and all those other ones, they're labeled."
You show him the herbs, "This is the stinging pine I just showed you, some nettleleaf- ooh, this one I discovered! When you steep it and use the tea to cook rice, it starts to taste like coriander!" You say excitedly
He matches your energy with curiosity, looking closely at them and even reaching out to examine some before you softly grab his hand to keep him from touching it without gloves.
He looks at the rows of plants before curiously looking at an unlabeled one in facination, "What's this"
You look over and realize what he was pointing at, giggling at him, "That's thyme"
"Oh" he flushes in embarrassment as your laughter grows behind him.
You apologize for laughing and he returns to you in the middle of the garden, chuckling himself. "Well, anyhow, this garden is amazing. These plants are so different but all so alive"
You face heats up but you smile, "Thanks, I enjoy it. No one's really payed attention to these before. I love the people of Starry Reefs but everyone's too busy to care about plants. And those who I thought did were just..." You trail off, thinking of your past flings
You wave your hands, "Well it doesn't matter. You're nicer than the past tourists and pirates anyway"
He looks at you as if trying to figure out your past but ultimately drops it. "I don't believe that people are not interested in this" he consoles with a warm smile
This did you in. Instead of a blushy giggling fit, your shoulders dropped as you melted from his words. The sincerity in his voice took any response from you and you were stood there, taking in his sentiment
"You're way too nice. Here, I'll give you a few pouches of my harvest"
You collected some bags of fruits and herbs you already had preserved in a box and tossed it into his wagon.
"I have notes on how to prepare them but they're inside. I'll organize them and give them to you before you leave"
"I appreciate it. Maybe we could go out for lunch as a thanks? My treat." He offers, a twinge of a flirtatious tone coming through his voice.
Your eyes light up, mirroring in his as well, "I'd love to."
He takes your hand in the same playfully grandiose way he offered an elbow earlier and you took it all the same.
You both had a fun time walking to your local cafe, chatting and growing closer in the time you spent together. It felt so easy with him, not in a forced trying to get close way, but something that came naturally. You never figured the people you'd been with before had any ulterior motive but something in the way he was with you felt way more comfortable and natural than any person before.
He learned about your experiments in the kitchen, learning about the how you were raised, and how the whole town was like family to you. You explained that the place you lived in, the local inn, was run by the people closest to your biological mother. She died giving birth, your father a random sailor who knows where, and the townspeople all came together to raise you, the phrase 'it takes a village' rang true.
You learned about how he ended up as a pirate chef, about the Baratie, and even about his own father figure, Zeff. He told you stories of the kitchen in the Baratie, one anecdote blending into the next until you basically learned his journey to learning how to be a great cook.
Before you knew it, the clock struck 3 in the afternoon, and you had to part ways and do your chores at the inn. He kissed the back of your hand graciously once again before you headed back home.
-
The next day you got unexpectedly busy. The other island that often did trades with your town had some sailors come in today and the inn needed more help. They arrived early in the morning and even in the hours of the day before the sun came up, you had to welcome them in and set rooms up.
By the time the sun rose, you were still tired and did not have the energy to prepare breakfast yourself. You felt so guilty but you did ring up the Straw Hats' transponder snail because you believed in a standard of food for guests that you couldn't deliver in your state. it also may or may not have been an excuse to spend time with him in the kitchen.
Your guilt melted away easily though with his constant reassurance. He said he was even happy that you called him, "Now I can be your knight in shining armor" he proclaimed.
You were quite skilled in the kitchen, even if you did primarily bake, but he was a huge help. The speed and mastery in which he worked was unmatched and he quickly and perfectly prepared buffet amounts faster than you ever could. You were making fresh (normal) muffins and bread, working in tandem with him. The way you both moved around the inn's kitchen was like a dance, one that you both somehow knew the choreography to.
By the time the sailors were up and awake, a huge feast was ready for them. You apologized to Sanji for needing to call him before sending him on his way with a kiss on the cheek.
"Once again, never apologize for needing me, my dear. In fact, I prefer it" He said flirtatiously, however his charismatic tone was overshadowed by his dopey grin which made you giddy as well.
-
That night, the Straw Hats had accidentally synced their schedules. By the time dinner rolled around, everyone was done with their shopping and other activities when they all found each other in the town square. Hungry and with no time for Sanji to cook for them, they agreed to have dinner in a restaurant instead. They didn't need to browse long until they found an all you can eat which of course Luffy wanted to go to which Nami agreed because of the good deal.
They entered and as usual caused a ruckus because of Luffy's excitement to eat. Before the crew could even get settled, he comedically had a full plate stacked high, causing the group to scold him for getting food before paying.
With an exasperated sigh, Sanji waved a waiter who cheerily asked if they were going to partake in the buffet of order from the menu. The waiter laughed, already knowing the answer when they sheepishly admit to choosing the buffet, hitting their captain on the backside of the head when he started eating already.
"And you guys are the Straw Hat Pirates, right?" The waiter asked
"Yes, why" Nami asked cautiously
"We're happy to give you guys a 30% discount if you'd like. Special discount for friends and family "cause any friend of our dear Y/N is a friend of ours" He said, winking at Sanji
The group looked at each other confused but accepted anyway, waiting for the waiter to leave before questioning it.
"Who's Y/N?" Usopp asked first, nervous that they got a discount by mistake
"She's that nice girl I've been talking to these past few days. The one who gave me all that bread" Sanji explains, putting a name to the girl he's been bringing up on the ship
Zoro scoffs, "I told you, last time you thought a girl was into you, she tried killing you and Usopp. I had to save your asses"
"She's different, okay? She's sweet and welcoming- and not in a sneaky way!" He holds his finger up, stopping Zoro from bringing up how the redhead on the assassin's island was also 'welcoming.'
Zoro shrugs and Nami cuts in, "Well whatever, at least we saved some money on this meal, knowing Luffy they could've ended up charging us extra for cleaning out their food trays. Just be careful" She says, pointedly looking at Sanji
This made him suddenly conscious. He knew there was no way you were tricking him, but now the seed of doubt was planted in his mind. You seemed too good to be true, and Sanji was used to charming women but has never had that reciprocated in such a true way. Plainly saying, he's never actually dated a girl before.
The crew enjoyed their meal, dropping the topic and forgetting it, all the while Sanji was in thought. He enjoyed the cuisine but every unique flavor of the island reminded him of you. He was a little quieter in the table, luckily to no one's notice.
At some point, someone came in with a delivery of tissues and takeout boxes, the usual stock needed in a restaurant. The guy seems to ask an employee as he looks around, eyes locking to their table when the guy points at them. He approaches them and the group looks up.
"Ah Mr. Sanji, the Straw Hats' cook. Y/N said if I saw you on the way to apologize for being busy today but she wanted to invite you tonight. She said to meet at the inn's entrance and she'll take you somewhere. Who knows where that girl goes at night" He relays the message like he was forced to but if Sanji picked anything up from staying here, it was that everyone in this town would do anything for her.
He thanks him for the message and everyone looks at him expectantly, as if to say 'are you really gonna go'
He throws his hands up in defense, "She's really nice, now I know it seems shady but you guys haven't met her. She's interesting and this is probably another strange interest of hers"
The rest groan, a group agreement of 'if you say so's and 'don't expect us to save you's.
"Yeah, yeah," he went. dismissively, letting the group say whatever knowing, hoping, he'll prove them wrong.
-
By the time dinner was finished he helped a food coma Luffy back onto the ship and even offered to help clean the mess he made at the restaurant, much to the staffs delight. They kept praising him, saying 'she finally found a good one' and complimenting his manners like he was a little boy visiting a nursing home.
When all that was done he made his way to the inn, hoping he wasn't too late given that there was no specified time. He found her waiting, waving at her with an apologetic smile.
"Sorry I'm late"
"It's alright. It's my fault I didn't say what time"
He chuckles, testing the waters by bringing up a doubt his crew gave him, "I almost didn't know if I should come. My crew thought the meetup sounded ominous but in the end I couldn't say no to you"
You smile, undeterred by the comment, "I tend to have that effect on people"
He nods, fully agreeing.
"Anyway, it's nothing sketchy, don't worry. I just wanted to show you something"
You gesture to start walking, leading him to a secret place you kept from others. It was a fenced out area, a 'DANGER' sign hung up. You opened the side of it, squeezing through the small door.
He looks hesitant to follow but you assured him it was safe.
"Actually, I put up this fence. I wanted to keep this for myself" You admitted, sitting with him near the edge of a not-so-steep cliff.
It was a beautiful view, just a lake but it was a sunken one. The shore curved above it in an almost spherical way. It was lower tonight, even with the full moon. He was stunned in silence, taking in the surroundings. The foliage was untouched, flowers and bushes were rampant at the edge of the trees.
"Sometimes when the tide's high, the water reaches your toes if you sit at the edge" You explain as he looks down at the lake. You walk over to a nearby lamp that stood by the fence, turning it off to reveal the star filled night sky
You invite him to sit next to you on the edge of the cliff, visibly relaxed by the place.
"This is my own little haven. I love everyone and they love me, but sometimes I like to feel free from everyone, even just a little. This place is where I go when I wanna be alone. Just me, the stars and the nature. You probably experience places like this all the time as a pirate."
He shakes his head, leaning back on his hands. "Maybe the night sky, but we never get this kind of peace and quiet. Not yet in our adventure anyway"
You sigh dreamily, "I would love to go on adventures"
"Why don't you? I'm sure everyone would be in support" he leans closer, his voice more intimate
"All I know is my home. I could never just leave for an indefinite amount of time" You say with a tight lipped smile, leaning into him too, eyes looking deep into his. Your voice drops to a whisper from the closeness, "But it's nice to dream"
You both settle into a comfortable silence. Realizing how close your faces were to one another, you saw his eyes flicker down to your lips and you knew what that meant. Though, you were not pulling away.
"May I?" He asked softly, you felt his breath on your lips, tempting you even more.
Suddenly the pull he had on you was stronger. You weren't imagining a life with him, but the feeling of being with him here, in his presence, felt like something you could stay in forever.
You nodded, your eyes fluttering shut when he moved in to kiss you. Despite knowing him for a few days, it felt natural. Yes, you fell for people easily but this one felt like finding a new place you knew you could easily call home.
You felt him cup your face, pulling you closer. God he was a good kisser. You tilted your head to slot your faces more perfectly together and it allowed him to card his hand through the hair of the back of your head.
You both pull away, both flushed and panting afterward. You felt a wave of shyness but didn't pull away for the love of the feeling of being in his arms.
You sigh, "I can't do this" you whisper
His eyes looked lost, wondering if he did something wrong but a little afraid to ask why.
You smile at him sheepishly "You're leaving the day after tomorrow and I can't keep falling for people who leave right after I do"
Your hands tighten on the lapels of his suit, "And how I would love to fall for you but you're ten times more amazing than anyone... it would kill me." Your voice shakes at the end
Your head falls to his chest, his hands cupping your head and back, holding you close.
You stay like that for a few moments, before he speaks with a certainty in his voice, "Come with me"
Your head shoots up, looking at him befuddled. "What."
"Come with me, with us. You said you wanted to adventure, be independent. My captain would probably love to have another member who prepares food, heh, he loves food," He chuckles, his mood lightening while yours dropped
"Sanji..." You try to stop his rambling
"And-! And you don't have to worry about sea kings or other pirates. I can protect you if you're worried about that." He cups your face, looking at you excitedly
"Sanji," You try more sternly, cupping his face too
"My crew would love to have you on board! With the way you prepare food to make it edible, foraging would be easier if we're ever short on food-"
You press your lips to him, soft and swift, just to make him stop talking. He looks at you longingly when you pull away, finally listening to you
"Sanji, I'm not ready for that" you say sadly
You see the disappointment in his eyes. You know it's not directed at you, but at the situation. You didn't even have to explain that it was too fast, too soon to decide to leave your home with a man you felt you could have a happily ever after with. You knew under any other circumstances, you would dive in head-first into this thing with him. The thing is... he made you feel secure, that's why it felt so safe, but this was a risk too big.
And he knew that.
He sighs, cupping your hand that holds his face, nodding. He takes your hand off his face and holds it in his larger hand, pressing a kiss to your knuckles.
"We still have tomorrow, right?" He offers, warming your heart even more that he didn't want to just split up to end the pain quickly. He still wanted to cherish the time with you, like you did with him.
You nodded, hopeful that he was going to ask to spend time with you. Of course, he did.
"One more day, teach me everything you learned about your plants. Tell me everything you do in your day to day, so when I leave I can think back and won't have to wonder much about what you're doing at any given time" He all but begged and if you weren't sitting, you would've buckled at the knees the way he was looking at you right now.
-
8 months later...
-
You still think about him sometimes, now more than ever. You tried exchanging letters with him, the political state of the world making it harder to track him down, especially as he gets farther and farther from your island.
Starry Reefs was just a stop in his journey, but it was the start of yours. Meeting him changed your life forever. You always got tastes of the life of the sea, outside your hometown from the flings and flirtations you share with the many sailors and pirates, but Sanji made it seem so real and reachable.
The last day you spent with him was one you treasured forever since then. The stories he told about himself were less predictable than yours, so it was harder to guess what he was doing at any time of the day. You couldn't say you were different. Since bidding goodbye to him, you also changed up your routine. You started learning more life skills, you spent more time at the docks. You spent less time baking and more time learning to fix and sail ships.
You didn't abandon making food. You even treasured the sacred time you spent practicing making your harvest edible. Every spray of lemon water, every syrup you made, every reduction you mixed into a snack bar always made you think of him.
Eventually, with the help of your family, the town of Starry Reefs, you had your own small but strong ship. It was one you could man on your own and even had a room in the hull with your personal belongings. The deck had enough space for quite a few pots where you could still keep plants from your home island. You even had many more gardening supplies hidden in a storage room.
The day you set sail was a tearful one, your family wishing you all the best and even gifting you a transponder snail that could always call back to the inn, granted you had clear skies and enough of a sky signal. You thought about him a lot that day, wondering if you would see him again on your journey. You thanked his presence in your life, owing him the initiative that made you even consider sailing into adventure in the first place.
Today, you were in another island, a bustling city housed on it. You walked around, hearing there was a tall tower you could get a signal on and was currently trying to find it to call home. You're reading every sign and flyer to get an idea of where you were, seeing the wall of wanted posters. You searched for his again and again, every time, watching the bounty go up with pride.
You smile at it once more before continuing on trying to find the tower. You wonder why so many marines are running around before you heard one of them yell it, "Straw Hats!"
Your heart leaped. It couldn't be. They weren't here were they. You felt your heart thump and palms begin to sweat. You didn't know why you were nervous, they would probably escape the island before you ever saw any of them. Nevertheless, you ran.
You ran the opposite direction of the marines, not knowing whether to try finding him by following them or hiding away, too nervous to even look for him. You ended up in a saloon, finding it great timing to calm your nerves.
You took a seat in the bar, trying to expel your nerves as you exhale, calling for a drink. While waiting, you tap your fingers on the counter, listening to the ambient sound of the bar. Amidst the chatter, you heard footsteps behind you, a little clacky, probably in fancy shoes. You wonder if it's a guy about to buy you a drink, turning around with confidence and the intention to charm a free drink.
You were met with those eyes. Those eyes, that golden hair covering one, that charming smile and that relaxed posture.
"I'm glad it hasn't been a hundred years since I saw you again, my love"
˚₊‧꒰ა . ——— ˗ˏˋ ✮ ˎˊ˗ ——— ˖ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚
A/N: This is a little longer than my usual but I hope yall like it! I was gonna make it an open ending for a two parter but I wanted a whole full circle ending. Anyway if you liked it, support my ko-fi! It's for my main art accounts but why not promote it here too. Thanks for reading!!
<You meant to wait for Sanji. You didn't mean to fall asleep.>
Sanji x Reader
The kitchen lights were still on, not unusual in the slightest, but it was quieter than normal. The absence of clattering dishes, the hum of movement, no soft muttering under Sanji’s breath as he worked. It was still. Sanji paused in the doorway, one hand still resting against its frame. “...That’s strange.” He took a step inside, spotting you. You were slumped forward slightly at the table, arms folded beneath your head, your cheek pressed awkwardly against your sleeve. Asleep, and not comfortably, either. Your posture was all wrong- neck bent at an angle that would definitely bother you later, shoulders barely supported by the chair. There was an untouched plate in front of you, still warm.
Sanji exhaled quietly through his nose. “...Idiot.” The word came out softer than it sounded. He moved closer, steps quieter now without any thought behind them. You didn’t stir or shift in the slightest, your breathing slow and even, completely out of it. You must’ve been more tired than you let on. That wasn’t unusual, either. Sanji glanced at the untouched plate, typical. He clicked his tongue under his breath, reaching out to move it aside carefully so it wouldn’t spill. Then his attention shifted back to you.
To the way your fingers curled loosely against your sleeve, and to the faint crease between your brows, even in sleep. “...You waited,” he muttered, more to himself than to you. For a moment, he just stood there, watching. Not in a way that lingered too long- just enough to take in the details, to confirm what he already knew. Then he sighed, quieter this time. “...You’re going to regret that position in the morning.” You didn’t respond, obviously.
Carefully, he reached down, one hand settling lightly against your shoulder. “Hey,” he said, voice low. “Wake up.” You stirred- barely. A faint shift, small sound and the twitch of your nose, but nothing more. Not enough for Sanji. “...Tch.” His grip adjusted, just slightly firmer. “Come on.” This time, your eyes cracked open slowly, a little unfocused. “...Sanji?”
“Yeah.”
You blinked at him, still halfway somewhere else. “...I didn’t mean to-” Sanji waved his hand. “Save it.” It wasn’t in a harsh way, just dismissive in a way that meant he wasn’t interested in excuses. You tried to sit up, which didn’t really go well. Your movement was sluggish, your balance off just enough that you wavered slightly. Sanji’s hand was already there before you tipped too far- steadying you without comment. “...Easy.”
“I’m fine,” you mumbled automatically. “I know.” A beat passed, interrupted by his voice, slightly softer. “That’s not the point.” You squinted slightly, trying to wake up properly. “...Did I fall asleep?”
“No,” he said flatly. “You decided to take a nap in the most uncomfortable possible position.”
“...Right.” You rubbed your face, wincing slightly as your neck protested. “...That tracks.”
“Of course it does.”
Before you could say anything else, something was pressed lightly into your hands. You blinked down at it. A warm plate was moved in front of you. “...You remade it?” You were too tired to make any sense of it, perhaps he made it again while you were still asleep, or your original plate was still warm. It didn’t really matter. “Mm.” Sanji interrupted your thoughts, causing you to look up at him. “You didn’t have to-”
“Eat.” There it was, simple and final. You hesitated for a second before you picked up the fork and took a bite. The warmth hit first, then the taste. It was familiar, steady, and grounding in a way that settled something in your chest before you could think about it too much. You swallowed slowly. “...It’s good,” you murmured. Sanji huffed quietly in response. “Obviously.” He didn’t sit across from you this time; didn’t hover directly in front of you like before. Instead, he leaned back against the counter, arms crossed loosely, cigarette between his fingers unlit. He watched you, not closely, but enough to keep an eye on you.
You ate slower than usual, still half-tired. Your movements were a little delayed and your thoughts still hadn’t quite caught up yet. But you kept going, one bite after another. “...You could’ve woken me earlier,” you said after a moment. “I did.” You sighed. “...Properly, then.” Sanji glanced at you for a moment. “...You looked like you needed it.” You paused slightly as a small frown touched your lips. “...I didn’t mean to fall asleep.”
“Didn’t say you did.”
A comfortable, familiar silence settled for a while after that, one that didn’t need to be filled by conversation. You continued to eat a few more bites before you looked up at Sanji again. “...You stayed.” Sanji didn’t respond right away, his gaze shifting away from you. “Food gets cold if I don’t.” You huffed softly in response. “...That’s not what I meant.”
“I know.” A pause, as he shifted slightly against the counter, his gaze settling back on you. “...You would’ve said something if you didn’t want me here.” Your chest tightened a little as you looked down at the plate. “...Yeah.”
You finished more than you expected to. Not everything, of course, but enough. When you finally set the fork down, your shoulders had finally relaxed, and your posture was less tense than before. You were more awake now, and Sanji noticed. “...Better?” He asked. You nodded. “Yeah.”
“Good.”
You didn’t get up right away and rush off like you usually would. You just sat there for a moment longer, the quiet stretching out between you again. “...Thank you,” you broke the silence in a soft, honest voice. Sanji looked at you for a second before he exhaled quietly. “...Go to bed.” You blinked at him. “...That’s it?” Sanji huffed, looking more at the table instead of directly at you. “What more do you want?” You smiled faintly. “...Nothing.”
You stood, a little slower this time, but steadier than before and made your way to the door. “...Don’t stay up too late,” you added, glancing back at him. Sanji raised a brow slightly. “...Worried about me?” You sent him a soft smile. “Someone has to be.” You both stood there for a moment, neither of you leaving, until Sanji smiled. “...Get some sleep.”
By the time he had turned back to the kitchen, he glanced down at your plate, almost empty. Almost. He didn’t comment on it; he didn’t feel the need to. But his movements felt just a little lighter after that, enough to notice.
Imagine complimenting Sanji on his style and him offering to help you with your outfit.
"Would we dress alike?" you asked with a playful smile. Sanji chuckled, shrugging.
"I know you'd look fantastic, even more so than you already do," the blond said with a tender smile. "Besides, that way everyone would know you're MY partner," he whispered in your ear, his voice husky and possessive, sending a shiver down your spine.
