Tonight was no different than before, the crew of the Red-Hair Pirates swarmed the beach in celebration. In celebration of what who even knows anymore. The black starry night was so clear that you can see each individual star.
You're standing near the shoreline, letting the water run over your toes, looking up at the stars far away from the loud noise of the crew.
It was so beautifully quiet which you truly enjoyed, but you could hear the soft crunch of the sand behind you. The quiet was no more and you knew who was coming up behind you.
“Damn.” Shanks spoke, staring hard at you. He started tugging at his collar, looking at you with so much love in his eyes.
“What? Is there something on my face?”
you asked a bit confused. His eyes roam over your body and Shanks's laugh just echoes through the atmosphere. “No, darling. You just look stunning.” He answers your question.
You look down at what you are wearing, “Seriously this has you going wild? I mean you've seen me naked.” You say.
You are wearing his cloak which looks massive on you.
He chuckles and invades your personal space “It shows that you are mine.” He gruffly says while picking you up in his arm and you wrap your legs around his waist. You kiss him softly at first then you rest your forehead against his.
“You're such a loser!” You giggle. “ Yeah? Well, I'm your loser.” He replies with the biggest smile on his face and he brings his lips back to yours.
Ghosts, Sake, and Chaos- Ghost!Roger x Reader x Shanks Part 2
[Part One]
A/N: I got this out quicker than I expected to honestly but I've been enjoying this and I have plans. We've got some background in this about Roger showing up, and a little bit of angst, and introduced to our new favorite bar cat too! Honestly, I can't wait to explore the more serious side of Shanks too so please, enjoy this part two!
Word Count: 2.6K
Warnings: pirate humor, use of nicknames: sweetheart, love, etc.
“Why are you here?”
“I missed you.”
“Bullshit.”
He laughed as he winked at Doris and Louise, you were well aware of Roger beaming with pride at seeing his son in everything but blood.
“It’s true! I did. But we came a couple of days early. Supplies and what not.” He leaned against the bar, his warm, amber eyes watching you with a look you didn’t want to name and you didn’t want to smile, you really didn’t, yet you did.
“Hmm. You just wanted more sake.”
“You serving it helps me plenty.” He winked at you and you rolled you eyes, glancing at Roger as if to blame him for how Shanks was.
“Oh shut up.” You slid him a bottle of sake and a cup anyway. But you had a feeling there was something else there too but you wouldn’t question him. Not yet.
“Thanks, love.” He winked as he poured himself a cup, taking a seat next to Louise. The woman was all but fawning over him and so was Doris.
Traitors.
“Oh, Shanks, look at you.” Doris cooed to the Emperor, who was absolutely eating it up, he always had liked attention when the mood struck and clearly now was a good time. “You’re as handsome as the last time you were here.”
You snorted, shaking your head as you continued to restock the bar, very well aware of Shanks’ eyes on you as were Roger’s. They really were father and son. You tuned in some as you listened to Shanks tell Doris and Louise about his latest sea faring adventures and the scuffle he had supposedly gotten into.
Thankfully, Yassop wasn’t here to embellish details but that did bring up the question of where his crew was. You figured they were probably gathering supplies or checking in on the village. Shanks and his crew were one of the best emperors to have protecting any island, they cared about the people, and they didn’t demand anything. It was one of the many reasons why the people on the island were so loyal to them and him. They all loved Shanks.
You spared a glance at Roger, who had a shine to his deep brown eyes (if ghosts even got tears, who knew, this was all crazy to you as it was), but there was a proud gleam to them. You knew he was proud of the man Shanks had become and you knew, from your various drunken conversations with Shanks, that he always had wondered if he made Roger proud.
Maybe you’d be able to tell him about your pesky ghostly roommate. That’s basically what he was now and even if he did piss you off more often than not, it had been nice to not be alone besides the cat you had adopted a few days before Roger had shown up. The cat, however, was an orange tabby with part of his left ear that was missing and somehow he had chosen you to be his owner yet he could be a mean old thing.
He also knew Roger was there and for whatever reason he loved Roger.
You had ended up naming him Scratch mainly due to the fact that he had scratched you several times for no reason but he was an old man and you couldn’t blame the grumpy cat either. At first, you had assumed the things being moved around your little apartment above the bar was because of him. It was not as you came to find out when you had literally woken up to a ghost leaning over you that had the most ridiculous mustache in the world.
Gol D. Roger.
You had screamed and he had screamed and then you had declared you were dreaming. It turns out that you weren’t dreaming and now it had been three months and living with Roger had become a reality. He could be entertaining and also informative too but mainly he was a pest, a menace, you hated that you enjoyed it too.
“Something’s bothering him.”
Roger’s voice brought you out of your thoughts about the last couple of months and you glanced over at him.
“Hm?”
Roger didn’t expect you to talk when there were others around but he also had picked up your non verbal cues that you were listening to him.
“He’s engaged but he’s not there fully.” He told you and while Roger may have been dead for twenty years, he had raised Shanks and he knew him well enough to know something was going on. Roger was also extremely competent with just about anything too, he just chose to be a menace who was powerful even as a ghost.
You hummed your acknowledgement and glanced at the red haired emperor. Roger was right. He was carrying something. He wasn’t as joyful as he typically was, sure, he was still being a charming menace but there was just something off about him and the way he was acting.
Something was wrong.
“Could be to do with that last crew he dealt with.” Roger added and you nodded a bit, your eyes shifting the red haired pirate. You knew from the last time Shanks was here he had been worried about Teach, now Blackbeard, ever since he had murdered the fourth division commander of the Whitebeard Pirates. You knew a few of them and you had known Thatch but you definitely weren’t as close to them as you were with the Red Haired pirates, but you never minded if they showed up. You were fond of Marco and Izou along with Ace. You spared a glance at Roger. It was amazing how much Ace looked like his father but you never brought it up either.
“Hm.”
“Rrooowwwww.”
“Hello, Scratch.” You said fondly as the cat jumped onto the counter. No one really said anything about it anymore, he’d shown up a couple of months ago and Doris and Louise had convinced you to take the grumpy, orange tabby. He’d been living with you ever since and he still made his rounds at the stalls, killing off bugs and mice. He also got plenty of scraps too along with the fish your cook made him.
He was absolutely spoiled and lived just like a king.
You reached over and scratched behind his ears, causing him to growl out in contentment. You smiled a bit until Shanks looked over and raised a brow.
“And who’s this?”
“This is Scratch. He showed up one day and didn’t leave.” You told him as Doris laughed softly.
“He’s quite a handsome boy, isn’t he?” She reached over to pet him as he walked down the bar and meowed before he sat down and glared at Shanks. Shanks met his gaze and the two sized each other up. Shanks lifted his hand up for Scratch to sniff at, he did, and then he hissed, batting at him with claws out.
Shanks hissed, pulling his hand back. “Mean little devil, aren’t you?” He glared at the cat, whose tail was flicking back and forth, as he cleaned his face.
Neither of you thought much of it when red welts formed on Shanks’ hand but Roger noticed it. Shanks normally didn’t get cut unless someone was using haki. The ghost decided to file that back for later.
“He doesn’t like people. Don’t take offense to it, Red.” You shrugged but smirked a bit. “He takes a while to warm up to people.”
"Doubtful."
That only made the red haired emperor pout while Scratch jumped off the counter and headed out the door to take his midday patrol around the island. He was a very independent cat after all. You glanced at Shanks and leaned against the bar, arms resting on the counter.
“Where’s the rest of your crew?” You asked, tilting your head a bit. He turned his attention to you and smiled but it didn’t reach his eyes. Something was definitely wrong.
“Taking the day. Beck’s meeting with some of the elders. I’m heading that way in a bit but I wanted to stop by here first.” You knew he meant the words and part of you wondered if he came in just to see you but you absolutely refused to let that part of you have any say when it came to your feelings about the red haired menace.
“Well, I stocked up on that sake you like so you should be fine while you’re here unless you drink all of it tonight.” You threw out at him and he grinned at you.
“Me? Drink all of your sake? Sweetheart, I’m not an alcoholic.”
You snorted at that and flicked his forehead with just a slight coating of armament haki on your fingers to make it hurt. “Liar.”
He pouted again as he rubbed his forehead, pouting. “Hey, that hurt. I always forget you can do that.”
You rolled your eyes as you shook your head. “Rookie mistake, Red. I thought you were an emperor.”
“I am an emperor, I just sometimes forget that I answer to you.” He smirked before his tone lowered. “Are you working tonight?”
Your brow raised a bit and shook your head. “No, are you asking me to drink with you?”
He shook his head,leaning in a bit more. You were close now and you were well aware that Doris and Louise were watching along with Roger.
“Not tonight. I want to talk to you.” He glanced over at the two ladies and his lips twitched. “Alone.”
While they may have taken it that he was looking to get you into his bed, which you probably would by the end of this adventure of his, but you saw the serious gleam in his eyes and that this wouldn’t be a fun catching up visit.
“What time?” You asked, tilting your head and he hummed.
“About seven? I’ll ask Lucky to cook that one dish you favor.”
You smiled a bit, you had always loved Lucky Roux’s cooking. “Alright, I’ll meet you on the Red Force then?”
“Mhm.” He finished his saki and winked at you as he stood up and headed for the door, lifting his hand in goodbye.
“It’s a date, love.”
Despite knowing that it probably wasn’t a date, you still blushed a bit, rolling your eyes.
“Shut up, you Red Haired bastard!” You called out to him, causing him to laugh while he walked out the door, your eyes watching him as he left. While Shanks annoyed you to no end, there was still something about the way the six foot six, broad shouldered, red haired emperor walked out that had your thoughts rolling because you recalled, very vividly, nights where it was his bare back and ass walking away from you to get a cloth to clean you up after a night of fucking.
“A date?” Doris chimed in, causing you to glance over at them with a glare. Louise was smirking, her blue eyes twinkling.
“I do believe that’s what I heard.” She added just as Roger made himself known once again. While Roger seemed to realize the date wasn’t just a date, he didn’t care much, and joined in on the teasing.
“Well, he does have some class after all. He takes after me.”
You shot them all glares once more and rolled your eyes. “Oh, hush your mouths. Nosy women.” You muttered, including Roger in that comment too, as you walked off, well aware of your cheeks heating up, and you couldn’t help but wonder what the hell Shanks wanted to talk to you about.
Outside the Tavern
Shanks let out a sigh of relief as he walked down the street, looking for one of his officers. Truly, he had come to check on you first to make sure you were safe. You could handle yourself, you always could, with those sharp eyes of yours, your usage of observation and armament haki, along with your skills with hand to hand combat and the occasional sword play. He knew you had grown up on a pirate ship, basically were a pirate yourself, but that still didn’t stop him from worrying.
He and you had… a complicated relationship and despite popular belief, Shanks wasn’t sleeping with anyone else and he knew from his sources that you weren’t either.
But that didn’t…
He ran his hand through his hair when he caught sight of Yasopp and Benn, the sniper waving him over as he headed over to them.
“You find her?” He asked, looking over the Chief of the Red Haired pirates. Shanks nodded.
“Aye, she’s fine.”
“Figured she would be.” Beckman commented and Shanks shot him a look but it wasn’t hateful, more so, Shanks could let his irritability show.
He didn’t like other crews and enemies knowing about you. Specifically Marshall D. Teach but he doubted Teach would try anything, he was supposedly somewhere in the Grand Line and not anywhere near you. He’d rather keep it that way.
But still, he wanted your insight on it too. It was well known among his officers that you occasionally gathered information for them from what you’d overheard at your tavern and from crews going in and out. It was a fair trade, one you insisted on since Shanks protected the island, and he had lost that argument with you and didn’t plan on picking it up once more.
“You know he won’t come near here.” Yasopp added. already knowing what was bothering his captain. “And I doubt you’re his target.”
“I know I’m not but that doesn’t make me feel any better when he could come after her. But I doubt he will.” He sighed, running a hand down his face. “Where’s Roux? Sweetheart’s coming aboard tonight while you llot are out. Figured he could make her favorite meal.”
“A date?”
“No, I want to talk to her in private.”
“In your cabin.”
“Possibly.”
Yasopp smirked at him as Beckman shook his head, the first mate jerking his thumb towards the food stalls.
“Waiting for Louise I reckon.” he told him, taking a drag of his cigarette.
“She’ll be a bit, she’s in there with Doris.” Shanks smirked at Benn, the gleam of mischief returning for a moment. “She’s been looking for you.”
Beckman chuckled a bit and shook his head. “I’ll make sure I stop and see her in a bit then.”
It was a well known fact that Doris had quite the thing for Benn Beckman and Beckman, being Beckman, was a natural flirt as it was. He enjoyed it probably just as much as the little old lady did. It was never a problem for Benn Beckman to get ladies as it was for some of the others. Shanks blamed his natural charm and the fact that he wasn’t completely in love with a bartender as he was.
He nodded. “Alrigh-”
Hisssssssss.
Shanks yelped when he felt claws go down his leg and he glanced down, scowling at the orange tabby, with a missing ear, and a presence that reminded him of someone long dead but he didn't dare dwell on that, who was glaring right back at him. “What’re you doing here?” He asked the cat, who hissed at him again, swatting at his leg before taking off for no reason at all.
Beckman raised a brow and snorted. “What’d you do to him?”
“No clue.” Shanks shook his head, scowling still. “He’s Y/N’s cat now. Said he showed up one day, his name is Scratch. She said he doesn’t like most people anyway but he hates me apparently.”
Yasopp snorted as he watched the cat disappear into the crowd of people. “Well, I never thought I’d see the day where a pussy doesn't like you, Shanks.” He snickered and Shanks rolled his eyes while Beckman let out a short laugh.
“Fuck off, Yasopp.” He flipped the man off as he headed to go find Lucky. “I’ll see you lads later. And for the record, plenty of pussies like me.” He grumbled under his breath while his two crewmen laughed harder.
"Yeah, but only one matters, doesn't it?"
He paid them no mind as his thoughts were already filled with the excitement of seeing you later but also with the heaviness of it. He doubted the night would end how he’d typically enjoy it with you but at least you’d be there.
It was a quiet day at your job, which only meant something was going to happen soon.
Your hometown was way into what the pirates called the New World, a small island with nice weather and mostly okay people, no king or queen reigned and you sure didn’t listen or cared for the World Government or the Celestial Dragons. For what it was, it was quite peaceful.
Partly because of the jolly roger that was posted in the middle of the town’s plaza.
The Red Hair Pirates supported the town by drinking their weight in alcohol and eating as much as their heart desired every time they came by, which to everyone’s surprise was a lot. (And as much as the people in town told you it was because of you, you preferred not to have any expectations. You didn’t like getting hurt.)
The Emperor’s crew grew with time and now whenever they came back they had at least a hundred new members to feed.
This clearly was good for your business, as you ran the town’s bar, yet not so good for your heart.
The bar was partially empty, only a few people here and there sipping on their beers and enjoying the view of the sea. You were cleaning the counter when you spotted it, a fairly recognizable ship almost as big as the island came into view and you couldn’t help yourself as the corner of your lips raised.
It was a thing. The flirting and back and forth between you two.
You liked it. It was simple and neither of you had any expectations of what could or couldn’t happen at the end of the day. The thrill of kissing one of the Emperors of the Sea sent shivers down your spine every time without fail and you suspected this time wouldn’t be any different.
It wasn’t long before the ship was docked in front of the bar, yelling could be heard through the windows and the loud and boisterous steps of the pirates made themselves known. You guessed they had around forty new recruits. You would check on that when Shanks made his way to the counter.
You didn’t have to wait long, you could recognize his red hair from kilometers away. He entered the bar as he often did, calm and collected and he made his way to you, sitting right in front of you.
“The usual?” You asked, your voice low and raspy. Only looking at him from this distance made your throat dry up and your hands clammy.
He smiled and placed his hand under his chin, as if thinking about it. “Surprise me.” He spoke, a glint of mischievousness in his eye.
You hummed, unable to keep a straight face. Every time he came back he tore your defenses even more and what made it even worse, is that you didn’t mind.
You put the glass you were drying down, and placed your face right in front of his, enjoying the way both of your breaths mingled. He smelled faintly of mint and sea water.
“I have a few ideas,” you whispered. Feeling a bit cheeky when you caught the blooming redness on his ears “You sure you can handle them?”
Shanks smirked at you and came impossibly closer, he dropped his voice and spoke in a whisper, “I can handle anything, sweetheart.”
The pet name wasn’t new, around four visits ago he decided that simply calling you by your name wasn’t enough, he needed more. He wanted you to be his, and yet you refused time and time again. After a few attempts at what you liked to call, cringe worthy pet names, he settled on sweetheart after he whispered it into your ear as he made his way to your neck and you knees buckled, almost falling if it weren’t for his firm grip on your lower back, holding you.
Sweetheart. It repeated in your head like a mantra. His silky voice as he enunciated each letter made you weak in the knees, you hoped it didn’t show much.
You smiled back, took a deep breath in and stole a quick kiss.
It was enough for him to tilt his head back and let out a roaring laugh, making everybody in the room look at you both. You felt your ears go red with embarrassment and hoped that your hair covered them well enough for him not to notice.
You started to pour him some sake, it was a bottle you somehow had gotten from Wano. It was hidden in your cupboard under a lock, to which only you had the key. You had asked for it especially for Shanks, but you wouldn’t tell him that.
His ego was already too big.
He received the drink happily, taking the opportunity to caress your hand as you passed him the cup. “If you keep doing that I might think you like me.” You said, a lopsided smile on your face, teasing.
“Hmm, whatever could have given you that idea?”
You laughed at his words as you poured him another cup, passing it to him as quickly as you were able. “Just saying, handsome. Or do you smile like that to all the ladies that pour you a drink?”
“Only the ones I want to keep.” He replied so, so sure of his answer. You felt your heart do a somersault inside your chest. Praying to the seas that he couldn’t hear the sound of it rattling against your ribcage.
“Oh, so there is more than one?” You asked, knowing which buttons to push when it came to his interest in you.
His smile faltered a bit at your jab, but never disappeared. “Slip of the tongue sweetheart, it’s always been only you.”
You were damn sure he knew what those words did to you, a sigh slipping past your lips as he caressed your cheek. He grabbed his cup and drank every last sip of alcohol in it before standing up, “See you around?” He said it like a question but you knew it was more of a demand.
“Maybe.” you replied, hoping to keep up appearances.
You’ve never been quite the attached type, always preferring to let go of things you knew wouldn’t last but it felt quite different this time around.
You were fighting a losing battle and you knew it.
For years you had been running one con after another, using your charms and your good looks to con bands of pirates out of their money. It was the only life you knew how to live, the only lifestyle you had held since going out on your own. The rush was always exhilarating as you fled from your victims, that night in Lougetown was just like any other, until you ran into him.
The first time you met Red Haired Shanks, you didn't know who he was and you had no idea of the ways in which he, and his crew, would come to change your life. But could you outrun years of instinct or were you doomed to repeat the same patter you always did.
inspired by the song Getaway Car by Taylor Swift
You got it.
Finally.
The weight of it — along with all of the berri you could carry — in your bag offered comfort as you ran over the spotless rooftops. You thanked your foresight for swapping your gown for a pair of pants, you couldn’t imagine fighting all of that fabric as you hopped over shingles like a tomcat supposedly would.
The crisp night air and increasing sea breeze blew through your hair and chilled your skin, but somehow you didn’t seem to mind. Your legs carried you as fast as they could, ignoring all protest from your burning lungs. Adrenaline coursed through your blood, compensating for the fact that you were woefully unprepared for this feat. Then you saw it, the harbor.
Freedom.
~~~~~
You weren’t sure why that memory came back to you as you ran through the streets of Louguetown, but the thought brought a smile to your face regardless of small band of pirates on your tail. You may or may not have swindled their captain for all he was worth and drained their coffers, but that was just the name of game. It wasn't your fault that these lonely sea men were quick to fall for your charms, but wow did you benefit from it. You laughed in joy as you adjusted the heavy bag of newly acquired coins at your hip.
More than ready to put this little chase to an end and secure a new way into the Grand Line, you ducked into an alleyway and climbed onto the nearest rooftop. You used the line of stores as stepping stones to the next roof as you ran along the street. Unfortunately, these particular pirates were not as easy to shake as you had hoped, and the last thing you wanted was a fight, so you changed your strategy.
Instead of trying to slink away undetected, you made your movements loud and obvious, garnering their attention. Speeding up, you moved towards the sea, the most obvious dead end. Once you were out of their sight you hid behind a smokestack as they passed by. You snickered to yourself as you heard their assured directions and vindictive cries.
Not one to waste time, you dismounted the roof into a back alleyway via dumpster. As you dusted yourself off you felt a presence, then, you heard a whistle.
“What a show,” the voice of a man said, impressed. You turned around to find the silhouette of a tall man in a cloak that.
“What are you doing?” You questioned him as if he had dropped down from above near you and not the other way around.
“Well, I was going back to the bar after taking a piss, but this is much more interesting,” he said with a grin, gesturing towards you and the general direction you had appeared from.
The man took a docile step towards you and you were shocked to see hair so vibrantly red in the lowlight. With him better in view you took a moment to examine him past his outline. The shadows made it tricky but it looked as if he had a scar over his left eye. Dare you say that he looked familiar, but you could not place him.
His gaze looked you up and down in turn. He took in your appearance, noting how berri poke out of your cleavage and a weirdly bulky bag tied at your hip that no doubt contained jewels.
“So,” he started casually before taking on a slightly more playful tone, “What’s got a beautiful woman acting like a stray in the night?” His eyes darting briefly once more to the rooftop you had dismounted from.
“I don’t see how that is any of your business,” you said curtly as you adjusted the bills tucked in your shirt, hiding them from view. His grin only grew. “Maybe not, but can’t fault a man for his curiosity.”
“Haven’t you heard that curiosity killed the cat?” Your patience for the man was growing thin; you were not one for unexpected guest appearances during your getaway. “Haven’t you heard that cats have nine lives?” He retorted with a step forward and a sparkle in his eye, clearly enjoying the banter while all you wanted was to leave.
“And I’d reckon a tomcat like you doesn’t have many of those left.” Your eyes fell to scar on his face, newly defined in this light. The man laughed. “Tomcat, eh? Interesting coming from the one was jumping rooftop to rooftop a minute ago,” he stepped even closer as he spoke while still leaving a respectable distance between you two.
“Felt more befitting of someone on the prowl. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I really must be off.” You side stepped the man and make to leave. You had just about reached the mouth of the alley before his voice rang out and threw you off your game.
“At least let me buy you a drink.”
“Not happening,” you dismissed, not looking back despite the fault in your step. For the time being, your only priority was getting the hell out of Louguetown and continuing on.
“I dunno, I’ve been told I’m great company. Plus, I can guarantee your safe passage into the Grand Line. That is where you’re headed next, yeah?” he enticed. You thought about it harder. On second thought, you could use a drink.
~~~
You let the man with the red hair, whose name you still had yet to learn, lead you to a crowded pub; he even went as far as to hold the door open for you as you entered, far more well-mannered than the usual folk you ran with. From there he lead you to the bar top, pulling out a stool for you to sit on, a gesture that made you raise your brow.
“What’s the matter, darling?” He questioned you. “Nothing, just a bit surprised,” you said, still standing. “That I know how to treat a lady?” He questioned, filling in the gap in your words, clearly amused. Eyes skeptical, you took a seat, neither confirming nor denying his assumption. “Rest assured that I am nothin’ if not a gentleman,” he said as he pushed in your stool with ease. “Just not something I’d expect of a pirate,” you admitted as he took the seat next to you.
“Ahh, so you recognize me?” He said with a near smirk and—you surely must be mistaken—a hint of relief. “Not at all,” you responded passively. I just know your type, was the part that you didn't say. But, you couldn’t shake the feeling of familiarity with the man. He looked almost taken aback by the response before he quickly masked it and switched gears.
“What would you like? My treat,” he offered as he turned to face the bar top. “Whatever you’re having,” you told him. You could tell a lot about a person by their drink of choice, and you knew next to nothing about the man who had just offered you safe passage into the Grand Line, which happened to be the best place your gambit . Frustratingly, instead of flagging down the bartender and ordering his ale of choice, the man had seemed to take your indifference as a challenge.
The man’s eyes squint as he examines you with a playful scrutiny, absorbing your still slightly disheveled appearance as he tried to draw a verdict. Ultimately he flagged down the bartender and ordered two old fashions which were made at impressive speeds.
“This does not seem like your type of drink,” you commented honestly, taking the glass as it was placed in front of you and swirling it around. ”I figured you wouldn’t be one for bottom shelf grog,” he replied with a crooked grin. You hummed in response, taking a small sip of your drink. Old fashions had been a favorite of your fathers and therefore had garnered your distaste, but you had to admit it wasn’t that bad all things considered.
“So, about that safe passage…” you prompted. “Are you always this eager to talk about business?” The man questioned. “I am when my welfare is on the line,” you responded flatly.
“I s’pose that’s fair,” he chuckled taking a drink before asking a question. “Wondering what’s the catch are ya?” The man set his drink down, fingertips resting on the glass’ rim and turned toward you. “What d’ya got to give?”
You held back a scoff, not particularly enjoying what he had just implied. The raffish redhead had licked his lips while he’d tried to hide how his eyes grazed over your body. The casual manner in which he had said it also got on your nerves. You had thought he’d seemed like a decent, honorable man (or rather decent enough and honorable enough), but apparently not.
Still, you needed passage and this was your cheapest lead…unfortunately. You did not walk off like he deserved, but your fist did clench under the countertop in resistance. While you had hoped for a misunderstanding, you remained realistic in the matter, it was what men did after all.
“What are you suggesting?” You did your best to mask the scorn in your tone, but after the impression that you had just received — that he had hoped for you to whore yourself out for safe voyage — it was hard to not bite back. “Need I remind you that it was you who offered me.”
“Well, I was hoping for a story,” the man said simply with a lopsided smile, as if he were trying to smooth over any misconceptions without addressing them. When you still looked skeptical he kept going. “I mean it, a story is all I ask.” “A story?” You questioned, a bit bewildered. “A story,” he confirmed. “That’s it? No catch?” You interrogated. “That’s it, no secret agenda cross my heart,” he swore mimicking the action.
You nodded, pondering the offer, but quickly agreed. Although you were sure the story he wanted was the one that would explain your sudden descent from the rooftops, that was not the one you gave him. Instead, you very loosely recounted the tale of Rapunzel, a childhood fable you held dear to your heart. You had often dreamed of being set free from your own tower, but luckily that wasn't something you had to worry about anymore— it hadn't been for a while.
You didn't expect the best reaction to your antics, but to your surprise the man laughed, slamming his hand on the table.
“Oh I like you,” he declared after you had finished, his grin near wolfish.
“Is that a threat?” You questioned, downing more or your drink, nose crinkling at the burn of the alcohol.
He shrugged, “It’s what you make of it, but I s’pose you fulfilled your end of the bargain—“ He paused, cutting himself off once the bartender was in view and ordering another round for the both of you.
“I hope you know Captain that I am not paying,” you said, readjusting the money hidden in your bust line once more. “What kind of man would I be making a lady pay for her own drinks after I asked her?” He questioned in mock offense.
"Chivalry is not the first character trait I would associate with you," you said dryly, thinking of all the pirates you had known before. "Oh darling, you wound me," he pressed his hand over his heart in yet another over the top display of theatrics. You rolled your eyes and finished your drink. He was amusing you would give him that.
"What reason would a stray have to play nice with a stranger?" You retorted, grinning for the first time — something that did not slip past the man. [That was your first mistake. You had inadvertently shown him that there was a way in, past your defenses constructed out of necessity. A crack in your facade that would grow to be catastrophic.]
"Not so much a stranger, eh?" The man said, sliding one of the fresh drinks your way as he continued, "Not when you're 'bout to be venturing into the Grand Line on my ship."
"You mean you'll give me passage?" You questioned, accidentally allowing your eyes to glimmer with hope.
"I said you held up your end of the bargain, didn't I?" He said as he started on his Nth drink of the night. There was a moment's pause, as if he was examining you, not outwardly, but you could just tell. Whatever he had found had seemed to be enough for him.
"We leave in the morning. My ship is at the port just south of here. Look for a red dragon as a figurehead and if all else fails, search for a Jolly Roger that looks like me," he said motioning to the three lines scaring his eye with three fingers.
The playful glint in his eyes grew brighter. "You're welcome to leave and just meet us in the morning, but I would love it if you would stay for another round or two— no ulterior motives either."
Despite not having yet touched your second drink, you agreed to stay. [That was your second mistake. An action that would lead to your life being forever changed.] You knew you shouldn't have but you found yourself unable to resist.
As the night continued on you came to recognize how charming the man could be, and how annoyingly attractive he was. Not that either of those weren't glaringly obvious. But because of it, an idea started to developed in your mind. Just how easy it would be to weasel your way into the flirt's heart. You had done a lot of things to play the part in the past. What scared you was that you could see yourself meaning it.
Perhaps that was just the remnant hopelessness romantic in you, the leftovers of a childhood spent alone and too in your head, back before you had to learn the harsh truth of the real world. At least that was what you would tell yourself.
~~~
Come morning, you found yourself at the docks searching for a ship matching the description of the one the redheaded man had given you last night — a dragon figurehead and palm trees, quite hard to miss— and, he was right, it took you all of two minutes to find the vessel. It was only then, looking up at the massive ship, that you realized you had yet to learn the captain’s name.
A man with lettering on the bandanna wrapped around his forehead spotted you, you watched as he retreated to the center of the ship, likely alerting the captain. Your suspicions were proved correct when bright red hair greeted you on the other side of the gangplank.
“G’morning!” He cheered, unusually chipper for the morning after the sorry state you had seen him in the night before. “Was wond’rin’ if you’d show after ya disappeared last night.” In the midst of his heavy drinking you had slinked off into the night to get some much needed rest, and by then you trusted him enough to hold up his end of the bargain. A drinking game or two had shown you that he was nothing if not a man of his word.
To your relief, he made no effort to introduce you to his crew, and they had made no move to approach you as they moved about preparing to set off to sea. The crew was much more efficient than you had given them credit for, and in under ten minutes you were exiting the bay out in the open waters.
Not long after, the red-haired captain found you and offered to show you to where you would be staying. You accepted and followed him into the depths of the ship, and to your surprise the room he revealed was rather sizable. It was clear that it hadn't been used in a while, but it far exceeded your expectations.
"That door over there is a small bathroom so you can have some privacy," the man said as he held the door open for you to enter. "Other than that, you should be able to find everything you could need, but if not, don't be afraid to ask."
The captain lingered in the doorway as you took in your temporary room. "One more thing," he said, lingering in the doorway "You're not gonna kill us all in our sleep right?"
You silenced a snort. "Funny you didn't ask that question before letting me board your ship and taking me out to sea."
"What can I say? I got a bleeding heart and a penchant for taking on strays." His response made you crack a smile, [which was a victory in his books]. "Well, I'll leave you to it," he said, tapping the doorframe before pushing away from it, not yet leaving. "Word of advice, don't stay hidden in here the whole time. Crew's a curious and'll come looking, I'm one man I can only do so much to stop them," he said as if it were beyond his hands. Something told you that he would only encourage it if given the chance.
He turned to exit, taking two steps before backtracking. "Also, think of something you'd like us to call you. I already have dibs on Little Stray, but the rest of the crew's gonna want something."
You shut the door in his face, watching his smile grow as it closed. Once you were alone, the first thing you did was check the room for anything unusual, strange holes in the walls (or floor), bugs (both kinds), or stains on the sheets. When everything came back normal you breathed a sigh of relief. The second thing you did was hide your score from the last band of pirates you had sailed with.
Not because you didn't trust this new crew, rather because you had no reason to trust them. Hell, you hadn't even met them.
Then you did the only thing you could do; pray that you wouldn't regret the decision of taking passage from a group of strangers — pirates at that.
But it was far from the first time you had done that.
hiiiiii!!! i am trying something new, once again, i started this back in january and wanted to wait until it was completed to start posting it but i could no longer help myself lol. life is busy and i have other works so idk how often i can update this, but the whole story is mapped out, it just needs to be ironed out and stitched together
tysm for reading! have a great day/night and be sure to drink some water 💕
Ghosts, Sake, and Chaos- ghost!Roger x fem!reader x Shanks- Part 1
A/N: Hello friends, I mentioned before I wanted to do Gol D. Roger being a menace as a ghost so here is the beginning. I plan on doing this as a series but it'll come out on my own time, but hopefully you guys enjoy it as much as I am so far. Also Doris and Louise are products of mine and @spark-canon-spark's little brain worms talking because we like little old women being gossipy.
Reader owns a bar! Roger's dialogue will be italicized since only reader can hear and see him!
Warnings: use of nicknames: Lovey, dear, sweetheart; Gol D. Roger.
Gol D. Roger was the most annoying man/ghost on the Grand Line, probably in the world.
You still weren’t sure why you were chosen of all people for him to haunt but here you were, wiping down the bar counter of the tavern you owned while he leaned against the counter. He was handsome. There was no doubt about that even if he was a ghost. You still weren’t sure how you could see him or talk to him but you could. But he talked more than enough for an entire town and he talked about anything and anyone and everything. You never knew what you’d get with Roger.
You had taken over the bar from your father after he had decided he wanted to go sit by the docks and shoot the shit with the fisherman down there. Once a pirate, always a pirate. You had grown up on a pirate ship, your father’s, when he had his own crew before settling down on this island. He and you had known Shanks when Shanks was starting out and getting into the new world and thanks to that, he had your island under his protection as one of his territories now that he was an emperor.
You wanted to murder him half the time too just like his quasi father. You glanced at Roger as he leaned against the bar, yapping about nothing at all, and you shook your head.
“You’re as annoying as Shanks.”
“Well, I did raise him.”
“I’m aware.”
The grin he gave you was bright and you shook your head as you continued to wipe down the counter with a hum. Your hair was tied back and you wore shorts and a cropped top. It was easy, convenient, because you never knew when a fight would break out but it didn’t normally. The pirates and locals knew the rules, no fighting in the tavern or you’ll be thrown out.
They respected it and since it was mostly the Red Haired pirates who came and Shanks’ allied crews.. They knew not to cross you because by proxy, they’d piss off Red Hair. It was not something they wanted to do even though they all knew, you’d take care of them with ease, but that didn’t matter. Shanks still wouldn’t tolerate it. Your tavern was his favorite to come to.
“You know.” Roger started out as he watched you with a stupid smile. “I can see why Shanks likes to come here.”
You raised a brow at the King of the Pirates, glancing over at him. “And why is that?”
“You’re beautiful.”
You threw your rag at him, causing him to laugh as it went right through him.
“I hate you.”
“It’s the truth!”
“He comes because I have good sake.” You pointed out with a huff, a blush on your cheeks as well. You refused to admit Shanks thought you were beautiful and besides, it wasn’t any of the ghost’s business.
“Why don’t you go haunt him instead of me?”
“You’re more murdery and fun.”
“I think we need to talk about your definition of fun.”
“Like you don’t enjoy it just as much as me.”
You scoffed at him, refusing to admit that you did enjoy the chaos and his and Shanks’ definition of fun. You had been a pirate too, though, you were more retired than anything now. You never denied that you still felt the sea and chaos that came with it calling to you. You knew that Roger had realized that too and that was one of his other favorite topics to discuss with you. Returning to the sea but you liked your life here and besides, you sometimes gave information to Benn when the Red Haired Pirates came in about movements of marines, other crews, and little things you had heard.
You were loyal to the Red Haired Pirates even if you didn’t want to admit any feelings for Shanks.
“You know, I think you’d miss me if I just left.” Roger broke you out of your thoughts and you shot the ghost a glare.
“I think I’d actually get to sleep peacefully at night.” You told him as you tossed the rag underneath the bar into the basket you had there. You grabbed a new one, placing it in the back pocket of your shorts before you turned to grab some of the glasses.
Roger laughed, a booming laugh, and you smiled for just a moment. His laugh was loud much like he was but even after everything, it was still filled with joy. You ignored him as you went on about opening the tavern. You had a few employees who worked for you but you enjoyed the morning shift with the regulars that came in and the little old ladies who always showed up.
You were already setting out their normal drinks. Doris loved a good rum while Louise wanted a cocktail. They were in their seventies and they looked sweet but those old women were menaces. They each had their own little stand in the market district right down the road and would come in for an hour for a little break and lunch before going back. Doris sold flowers while Louise had vegetables from her garden. You often got both for free in exchange for their drinks being on the house. They were very much like your grandmothers in the way that grandmothers cared about you and also annoyed you to no end in a very loving way too.
“Oh! It’s my favorites!” Roger gasped in delight as you shook your head, setting both drinks down in front of their regular stools just as the two women walked in.
”Good morning, ladies.” You said with a smile towards them. There was a mischievous look in both of their eyes as they came in.
”Good Morning, dear.”
“Hello, lovey.”
Doris and Louise sat down and took a drink from their respective drinks, causing you to raise a brow.
“Why do you two look so suspicious?”
”Oh, no reason.”
”None at all.”
“But Doris, didn’t you see the red sails on the horizon this morning?”
“Were there? I didn’t notice. I do hope Beckman comes by my shop. He enjoys my flowers.”
You quietly snorted at that. She had her eye on the first mate of the Red Haired pirates and it never ceased to amuse you with how much this little old lady flirted with Beckman either.
“I’m sure Roux will be by mine. I wonder how long they’re staying this time.”
“I’m sure it’ll be a week or more. Last I heard, Shanks got into a scuffle with some little pirates.”
You glanced up at that, which was the wrong move entirely, because Doris caught your eye and smirked. Roger watched on in absolute delight, and Louise batted her eyes innocently.
“I hope the poor dear wasn’t hurt.”
You snorted before Doris could respond. “It’s Shanks. I think he’s fine.”
“You don’t know that, lovey.” Doris scolded you, shaking her head. “He’s just a boy.”
“He’s a grown man and an emperor. He’s fine, Doris.”
Roger snorted as he watched you continue your routine, you had already told your cook that they were there and would want their regular order. Grilled fish with rice. They hadn’t changed their order in five years and you doubted they would now.
Doris sipped her rum and nudged Louise. “Are you sure about that lovey?” She smirked at you.
You rolled your eyes once more. “I’m very sure. Shanks can handle himself. He’s one the strongest pirates on the seas even if you don’t want to admit it. Don’t baby him.”
Louise laughed a bit and shook her head, knowing you hadn’t even realized you had defended his strength. “Oh, dear. We know you baby him too.”
“I do not.” You puffed out your cheeks a bit as you leaned against the counter behind the bar.
“You do so. I’ve seen him come out of your rooms above here.” Louise pointed out and you rolled your eyes as Roger’s brows shot up. He hadn’t been haunting you the last time Shanks had docked at your island.
“He only stays there when he’s too drunk to get back to his ship.” You crossed your arms, lips pursed because yes, you did let Shanks stay in your room upstairs when he was here but only when he was drunk and that was…. Most of the time. You refused to let them know that they had a very good point..
“Oh? Does he stay in your bed?” Roger asked as he leaned next to you but you didn’t look at him. You didn’t need the little old ladies thinking you were crazy.
Doris, however, smirked. “That’s every time then, isn’t it, lovey?”
You narrowed your gaze at her and rolled your eyes. “Oh why don’t you both hush? Nothing is going on with me and that red haired bastard.” You grumbled, shoving through Roger as he laughed, and turning to get some ale for one of the other regulars who had come in. You didn’t notice him, not yet but Roger’s smirk widened when he noticed who was at your bar now.
“What poor red haired bastard is it that you have nothing going on with, sweetheart? It surely can’t be me.”
His voice was low, teasing, and his smirk was fully in place. Shanks had heard every word.
Damn it.
Speak of the devil.
Your back straightened as you scowled at the wall, turning to look at the red haired bastard in question.
“Are you okay, Mariney?” Maddie asks as you stretch your body in the medical room.
“I’m a lot better. See?” You do a spin and the little girl does a spin in response, looking proud when you smile at her. “We’re going to be docking again soon, aren’t we?”
“Mhm, I heard Shanks and Beckman talking about it.” There’s one last thing to do before you go. You sit on the bed.
“Can you sit next to me, Maddie?” She tilts her head in confusion, but sits. “When we dock at the next island I want you to help me spend the money I got as a reward for saving Tacky.”
“Ooo, why?” Her eyes twinkle. You don’t have a proper excuse.
“..Because you deserve it?”
“True. I haven’t been having my allowance since I’m away from home.” It worked.
“You get allowance?”
“Yah.” She nods. “I get 120 berries a week. 4 weeks is 500 berries a month. My mom said I could have it all at one time a month but I told her I want 120 a week because I’m like a grown up so I do every week so I don’t spend it all.” Her math is wrong but you have a feeling there’s a reason her mom didn’t correct her multiplication. When she gets home this can be a lesson on why you need to pay attention during math class. The hundreds are too complicated at her age. When she gets home. When she ages.
“So, I got a lot. The thing I want you to see is another type of ship. You’re going to need to know these if you want better success, okay?” She nods, determined. “Good. It’ll be a storage ship. We can buy food and snacks on our way there, okay? Do you have a backpack?” She nods again, more excited. “Good. Good.” You clench your jaw to hide any emotion.
“Um..” She fidgets nervously. “Are they going to let you go?”
“Maybe. If not, we can sneak out. We’ll get them something on the way back to make up for it.” That placates her and she goes back to being excited.
“Can I get something for Mama and Papa too?” Talking about being mad for sneaking out reminded her of her predicament.
“Sure, but we can ask them what they want when you’re back.” It’s best she doesn’t spend money on anything extra right now, money is important.
“Okay!” How are you going to manage to sneak out, though..? You told her you’d sneak out but this ship is full to the brim with people proficient in observation haki, and observation in general.
You head out onto the deck nervously, trying your best to look completely normal and not like you’re about to try to escape from one of the strongest people in the world.
“Hey.” Your heart jumps out of your chest like a rubber band and recoils back into place. It’s the pirate you saved. “You can walk?”
“Yes.” Normal—ish. Thankfully the crewmate thinks you’re just scared of him. He pulls something out of his pocket and holds it out to you. It’s a necklace. It’s pretty. The necklace is real braided leather, two interconnecting circles as a pendant with a pretty gem inside held carefully inside by another round piece of metal hugged around it. “I made this for you.”
“..You made this?” What delicate work, even the leather looks high quality.
“I know it isn’t worth my life but I worked pretty hard on it. Tried not to make it too heavy so it doesn’t hurt your neck.” Okay you aren’t that weak, but to be fair your body is still not at full strength. You hold out your hand and he carefully places it inside. Are you supposed to wear this? It feels disrespectful to be wearing something a criminal made around your neck. “You don’t have to wear it if you don’t want to, you can even sell it if you don’t want it. It’s yours now.” He says that but you can tell he doesn’t want you to sell it. You put it away for now.
“Thank you. It’s really nice, I like it.” You might not be able to wear it around the base if you make it back, though. The large pirate smiles at you then leaves to help with docking, you’re left to fidget with the jewelry in your pocket and peek at it. You actually like it, the color and shape of the gem is even your favorite and you wonder if that’s a coincidence. Maddie tugs your arm. “Right,” You store it safely on your person. “Let’s go.”
A pair of dark eyes follow you through the smoke of a cigarette.
“Let’s see which side of me is right, Marine.” The man mumbles as your figure leaves the ship.
_______
It worked. All you did was carefully sneak away while everyone was busy docking. It hurt because the ramp wasn’t properly stuck, you had to jump, but you made it.
Maddie runs around the town, spinning and humming like this is the best day of her life. Your mind wanders to necessities. An extra set of new clothes would be good. Not expensive looking enough to look like ransom money but not shabby enough to be taken advantage of.
You lead her to an exchange center for metals into money.
“What’s this?”
“We need to trade in some of the gold coins for money.”
“Why can’t we just go? Just give them a coin.”
“Solid gold coins are too much money on their own. Even just one would be too much for most things. The only time you’d pay in pure gold is if they have different money or you don’t want to have to carry around space-taking money.”
“But it’s paper.”
“It would be a lot of paper. A lot. I’ll show you.” You exchange a few for cash, then some into smaller bills. You show her the stack vs the gold coins. “Which one takes up more space.” She pauses then points at the coins. “I worded that wrong. I only used a few of the coins to get this amount of bills, if I exchanged all of them how much would I get.” Multiplication…
“..Ummm..” She looks inside the bag. “Ummm..”
“It’s okay, it’s just that it’s a lot.”
“I can do it!” She pauses. “...10, 10 times 10. 100.” There’s more than 10 coins in the bag, her formula numbers came from nowhere.
“More than that, but you get it right?” She grumbles and nods.
“I don’t have anything to write on, that’s why.” You gently pat her.
You grab a certificate of proof for the gold and have the clerk teach her about how not to get scammed just in case. Right before you leave you almost drop Tacky’s gift, catching it in time.
“Oh! We buy those too!” The clerk quickly says.
“You do?”
“We buy all metals and jewelry. Would you like me to examine it? It looks valuable if my eyes are right.” You freeze. Money. You need it for survival; but.. this was a gift. Not a reward for saving his life but a gift made with his own hands.
…
“It’s fine, I’ll keep it.” This could be considered foolish but you can’t bring yourself to sell such a thing right now. Perhaps later in your life, if you survive, you will. For now, this is the gift from someone who you saved.
“I see.” They look a bit disappointed but let you go.
So you’re off. New clothes, food, snacks, anything you can fit into her backpack. You buy a big rolling suitcase for you and fit more in there, but there’s no guarantee you’ll make it so you make sure she has the bare essentials and can handle the weight of the bag. You might be able to keep it with her, but the world is dangerous.
You go inside a small building as a shortcut, opening the door to the outside. The ship is in view. It’s time-
“I still had a feeling this wouldn’t work how I hoped, but I can’t say I’m not disappointed.”
Your blood runs cold. You turn and see him, your fear. Grey hair, sharp eyes, gun by his side.
“Maddie, I need you to go.” You say quickly and she looks between you and Benn Beckman.
“But-”
“Now! I’ll catch up with you!” You push her and she sprints away. A flash happens and you grip onto something, but the impact hits you. All that happened was his body slamming into yours and Benn Beckman stops.
“You’re gonna be like this still?” He grabs you by the back of your clothes, you kick at him.
“Mariney?”
“Woah!”
The other Red Haired pirates! They’re gathering. The first mate scoffs.
“You seriously thought you could get away with this?” You yell and try to stab him with a knife you stashed but it’s flicked away like nothing. “You see that, Captain?” Your head snaps to the crowd and to a redhead. Red hair.
“(Y/n)...” Why is he making that face?
“Knew you’d have to see it to believe it.” You’re tossed onto the ground, scrambling up. “I’ll go get the kid.”
“No!” You run to the door and block it with your body, but are shoved away easily. You get back up and it happens again. “I’m not-! Stop! She’s..! A kid!” Another two kicks.
“We should be telling you that.” Limejuice spouts, turning away angrily. You’re gripped by the back of your clothes again, lifted up like you weigh nothing.
“Moron. To think you seriously believe the marines would help her. Do you think everything is sunshine and rainbows on that side? After what you and your leader did? What your leader was? You’re dropped onto the floor and gasp for air. The pressure is killing you.
“Fuck, I actually trusted him.” Chaser mumbles in the background.
“Traitor to the marines and then us?” The doctor sneers.
“Jeez, and I called Beck paranoid.” Lucky Roux sighs.
All of them, so easily. So easily. You lock eyes with Red Hair. He looks down, then away. You clench your fists.
“Why.. why are you all acting like you’re the victims?” It’s coming to the surface. “Kidnapping me, slaughtering my coworkers, coming to me covered in blood and malice. All of you, all of you didn’t do a thing. You chose when to be nice and chose when to be mean. What the hell is wrong with you?” They stare down at you. “Do you really think I’m being the unreasonable one here? Pointing knives at me for fun, calling me names I never wanted to be called just because you could. It must be nice.” There are tears running down your face, disgracefully, given up. “To get to pick and choose which ‘normal’ to trust and care about like I’m a fucking puppy to you. Nothing to worry about, getting the choice. What was I supposed to do?” Your head droops. “What is someone like me meant to do? Shut down for doing something too bold and taken advantage of for being too meek. Too big, too small, too greedy, not ambitious enough, don’t fit in, not special, is anything even supposed to be right? Even when I go blank now I’m too blank. Why do you get to be something!?” The first mate's eyes stare into yours. “Is this really my fate no matter how hard I try?”
BANG
drip
drip
Your eyes focus on black, a coat, then the hand in front of your face.
“You’re as fast as ever, Beck.” You look down, there’s blood running down your lap. “Even with some haki it still hurt. You really tried. After the hesitation, of course.”
“I knew you would do this. Dammit.” The first mate clenches his jaw.
“you..” Your voice feels so small compared to what’s happening. Red Hair’s hand flicks off blood. “you’re bleeding.” His head turns to face you, a small grin on his face.
“I’ve had worse.” That doesn’t really help your shock.
“but you got bored of me. treated me like i’m something then left because i’m nothing.” His grin saddens into guilt.
“I’m sorry.” He turns back to his crew. “I’ll personally get Maddie, everyone stay here.” You grab onto his coat. With all your might, you stand up. “Alright, C’mon.” The crew stands there as you two leave, you don’t see their mixed faces of emotions.
You walk over to the docks, to the beaches around them and the other ships. The one you recognize is already at sea.
“I can get her from here.”
“Wait, they’ll recognize you.” The captain pauses, then softens and walks over to an empty wooden box used by the delivery people. He sticks it over his head, then vanishes into the wind that blasts into your face. You look to the ship and see a figure soaring through the sky that lands onto the ship. You’re anxious. You don’t know what’s going on yet.
Is this.. the nagging feeling?
It soars back through the air towards the docks.
A chance so small to you.
It’s heading towards the salt water, his hand will get wet.
A hope you lamented over.
Your legs move and cold sea water drenches your body. You reach out to him.
THUD
Shanks lands into your arms, the box falling off and your eyes meeting his. So brown, so warm. His face is so close to yours. Tan skin, wrinkles you never looked at closely, the stubble covering his chin and upper lip. His lips themselves. His cheeks slowly tinting a warmer color.
“U–Uh.” He finally lets out a small noise. His face is close to yours! You step back as quick as you can in heavy water until your feet reach sand, then put him down gently.
“I.. your hand. The salt water would have hurt.” Now it's your face getting hot.
“thanks.” He mumbles. Something in his arm squirms and hops out onto the ground, then runs over and kicks your shin! OWwwwww!!!
“Liar! Liar liar liar! Liar!” Right, Maddie. You crouch down and avoid her trying to punch you in the nose. “You lied! You were teaching me that stuff because you were gonna leave! I’m never learning anything ever again!” She continues to punch you, only hurting a bit except for a bite you'll have to wash later, you hold her. The punches get weaker until they stop and her little fists clutch onto you.
“WAHHHHHHHHH!!!!”
She bursts out into tears, sniffling and hiccuping and sobbing. Through it all you still hold her close to your chest.
“Ahem.”
You look behind you and see the Red Haired Pirates.
“I know you said to stay but we got worried.” The pirate doctor explains guiltily. “You need this too-” Maddie takes off her shoe and throws it at them angrily. When he tries again she throws the other. Only when you pat her back she calms down a little bit. “..I need to treat Captain’s hand.” Said Captain jolts.
“Oh–right. Go ahead, it really isn’t bad though.” The doctor wipes it off and sanitizes it before treating it. The redhead looks fine but he doesn’t really feel fine to you. You gently rub his wrist and he smiles; then your body tenses when the first mate steps forward. Shanks steps in front of you.
“I really look like the bad guy now, huh?” He speaks bitterly. “Well, I don’t blame ya.” His hand reaches for his rifle… then drops it onto the ground. His hands go up into the air. “Not sure how much this helps but I can do it for now, though I can’t leave it here in the sand forever.” There’s a small moment of nothing before the crew drops their weapons one by one, raising their hands the same way. The pounding in your chest starts to slow down. Shanks’s wrist in your grip pulls away to reach for Gryphon.
“You–don’t have to.” You shift Maddie in your arms more comfortably. “I’ll trust you.” Shanks makes an expression like awe, then drops Gryphon onto the ground.
“I’m doing this because I’ll trust you too.” The sweetest smile forms on his face. Fuck. Not again.
You want to kiss him.
Hii! Kind of a short ending message today. I decided to post this a little earlier than usual because I have something to do at 5 sharp. Anywayyyy, congrats on the romance!! *applause*.
Tag list: @abarosoap, @eater-of-sand, @yuurivalr, @aruaruaru, @rorawrnoa-zoro, @sasahzs, @psychictamsy
