When you go up to Law on the deck of the polar tang, the ocean breeze blows loose strands of hair into your face. He reaches a tattooed hand up as you speak, carefully brushing your hair back from your face and tucking it behind your ear. You stutter over your words at the gentle gesture, but he doesn’t so much as blink at the intimacy of it. His hand lingers for just a moment too long, savouring the feel of his fingers brushing over your cheek before he lets his hand drop back down to his side. It comes so naturally to him, the urge to brush your hair back from where it’s getting in your eyes. In part, he wants to relieve you of any discomfort, but more than anything, he wishes to keep your face open for him to admire.
Luffy: Booping your nose
It doesn’t matter what you’re doing. Whether you’re reading, eating, daydreaming, or anything in between, the moment you see Luffy approaching, you scrunch your nose in anticipation. Without fail, Luffy always greets you with a wide grin and a boop on the nose. You’re not sure when he picked up the habit, but the action always makes you laugh. Honestly, you think that’s half the reason he does it. It’s such a small thing, but it’s so inherently him, and it makes you feel special, even if it is a little silly. It’s a small act of intimacy reserved just for the two of you, and the silliness of the act makes it so authentic to Luffy.
Sanji: Gives you the first bite of his food
“Come here a second, my love,” Sanji calls over to you. You round the island, moving to his side. He’s holding the spoon up with an eager smile, excited for you to try his new recipe. Much to Luffy’s dismay, Sanji always saves the first bite of food for you. He craves your praise like a drug, and you never disappoint.
“Mmm, Sanji, this divine,” You practically moan, and his smile widens even more. He’s always been proud of his cooking ability, but never more than when he sees the reactions his food gets out of you. He’s slowly started tweaking his recipes based on your reactions until they’re crafted just to your preference, ensuring you love his food every time. He’s effectively combined his two loves: cooking and you.
Zoro: Sidewalk rule
Walking through the small island town, Zoro always makes sure he walks on the side of the path closest to the canal. He does it so naturally that at first, you don’t even notice. But time and again, Zoro ensures that he places his body between you and the potential danger.
When you’re walking through a bustling town with plenty of people milling about, he moves closer to your side, placing his hand on the small of your back to help guide you through the crowd. His urge to protect you is entirely instinctual. He doesn’t really think about why he places himself between you and the canal, or why he enters your personal space when pushing through a crowd. All he knows is that he feels more at ease when he knows you’re taken care of.
Ace: Pressing his knee against yours under the table
You’re about halfway through your meal, engrossed in a conversation with Marco, when Ace comes to sit down beside you. You continue speaking with Marco, smiling up at Ace but keeping your focus on the man sitting across from you. The first brush of Ace’s knee against yours, you barely notice, assuming it’s accidental. But then he does it again, more intentionally. His knee lingers as it pushes against yours before dropping away from you. You never falter in speaking, but your attention pulls away from the topic at hand, focusing more on the man next to you as he pushes his leg against yours once more. This time, you push back, catching his grin out of the corner of your eye as you silently acknowledge his not-so-subtle bid for attention. He’s polite enough not to interrupt your conversation – this time, at least – but the comforting press of his thigh against yours as he scoots marginally closer to you is enough to ensure you’re aware of his presence. It’s a silent way for him to show that he wants you close, without having to voice the thought.
𝐙𝐎𝐑𝐎 proposes not even a week after becoming the greatest swordsman.
he’s more quiet. he spends an odd amount of time in franky’s workshop.
then, as you two sit out in the deck following a typical straw hat celebration, it happens. a muted ting! that drowns out the sound of the sea.
he sets the ring down beside you.
smooth. matte black. just your size; it was shaped and molded by your swordsman.
it’s made from yoru, a piece that had broken off during the final battle. wado, zoro’s will, was stronger.
“you waited.”
that’s all he says at first, his gaze trained on the sky, because he knows he’ll falter if he looks at you. he knows he’s rough around the edges, knows that his goal had been his focus for years.
and through it all, you waited. you respected his dedication, encouraged him to train on nights he could’ve spent with you, were fine with what he could provide even though you knew he’d been holding back.
he’s made promises before. he’s promised his strength, his unwavering loyalty, his skill.
boyf!zoro x male reader, who loves manhandling you (requested<3)
cw: lowkey self indulgent with the amount of sprinklings of size difference i put in here, uhm zoro gets hard at the end (idk why im making them so horny recently im so sorry guys),
he just loves showing off how strong he is. can you blame him? his hard work and dedication has been what led him up to this point, the point of being able to do 50 push ups with you on his back. being able to do too many to count bench presses with you acting as his weight.
he just loves being able to show off, to you specifically.
he'll always have one of his big hands on your waist too, no matter what. even if you're just standing with the crew on sunny, his hand is tightly gripping your hip. sometimes he even ducks his fingers underneath your shirt so you can feel his calloused fingers and warm palm on your skin. he just likes having skin to skin contact with you, says it makes him keep a clear head and stay calm.
"[name], watch out!" usopp's warning is given a little too late as the darts that he was playing with was already so close to you. before you yourself could dodge it, however, you were lifted up off of the ground and moved to the side. a swift metal-on-metal sound followed your sudden relocation and both could be credited to zoro and his fast reflexes.
he was resting on the railing, across deck from you, and made it to your side in the blink of an eye. he lifted you with ease, still hoisting you to his side as he turned to glare at usopp. he was sheathing his sword on his hip, glaring menacingly at the sniper.
“watch it, usopp,” he practically growls out, “almost hit him right in the head,”
usopp sweat drops, apologizing profusely, “i’m sorry, [name]! it was the wind that blew it towards you, you know i’d never do it on purpose, right?” thne in a quieter voice he meekly says, “please tell zoro to stop glaring at me…”
“it’s alright usopp! i know you didn’t do it on purpose,” your words were kind and delivered with a smile as you were still being pressed to zoro’s side. you slapped his chest, forcing him to look at you. his gaze softened immediately, “stop glaring, you big baby, usopp didn’t mean it,”
“still-“
“no “still”, just get over it, zo,” despite it being you who almost got nailed in the forehead with the dart, zoro seemed to be the one who was most personally offended by it. he was still pouting as he carried you off to the railing he was previously napping on. his pout goes away when you peck his cheek and mutter a quick "thank you."
and now he's blushing and hiding his face behind his palm.
⠄･ ⋆ ･ ⠄⠂⋆ ･ ⠄⠂⋆ ･ ⠄
a very endearing way that zoro enjoys using his strength on you is whenever he needs to pick you up, outside of his working out and teasing moments. if you ever fall asleep on deck, with usopp, luffy, and chopper surrounding you two, he’ll scoop you up into his arms with ease and take you to the actual beds in the dormitory. since he knows you’re sleeping, he doesn’t bother hiding his fond, soft smile on his face as he effortlessly carries you.
“hmm?” you’re so sleepy you can’t even will yourself to open your mouth properly to say zoro’s name. just leaning closer into his warm chest and whining for a proper bed.
“i know, baby, we’re almost there,” he softly assures you, leaning down to press a kiss to your forehead, “should’ve just fallen asleep in your bed,”
“hm.”
“mhmm,” he hums back at you, smirking as he hears you mimic him in your sleepy state.
he places you into your bed, discarding his shirt and pants before joining you. the skin to skin contact makes you melt further into him, taking in as much warmth as you can. he feels you guide his hands to your shirt as well before lifting it over your head. with no cloth in between you two, it’s just you two pressing into each other for the rest of the night. when you wake up, luffy and chopper are both complaining about the ultimate betrayal zoro did to them by not carrying them to bed. zoro ignores their pestering, hanging off of your side and ruffling your hair as you yawn.
“can you two quiet down? some of us are still half awake,”
“he hates us,” the two cry in unison, comical tears flowing down their cheeks.
⠄･ ⋆ ･ ⠄⠂⋆ ･ ⠄⠂⋆ ･ ⠄
an aspect of your relationship with zoro that many on board, and assumedly the general population if they knew about this, found…interesting (to say the least) was how you two enjoyed fighting with each other. play fighting and seriously sparring, the activities helped you pass time with one another while also testing your guys’ strength.
it was usually done in the crow’s nest since that was zoro’s gym area and was away from prying eyes.
the sun was just beginning to set on the horizon, gleaming through the windows as you two were heavily panting. the sun made your guys’ skin shine even more from the thin coat of sweat on both of you. zoro’s lips have been upturned in a smirk ever since you two started while you were just breathing heavily, glaring at him.
“get that stupid face off your face,” you scowl, going forward to try taking him down.
he side steps you and catches your body against his, dropping you both down onto the floor to keep you pinned. it all happens too fast and you don’t even bother fighting against him and his iron grip.
“this stupid face you love so much?” he teases, tangling his legs with yours to prevent you from moving, “give up?”
“no!” in one last push of strength, you muster up everything within you to push off of the ground and flip the positions. however, the amount of force you conjured did little to nothing in even budging zoro’s frame pinning you down, “okay, i give up,”
you go limp in his hold, making him release you from his snake-like constraint. he doesn’t move from on top of you though, leaning down to briefly kiss you.
“good lessons today?” he asks against your lips, pecking you quickly before pulling away and looking down at you.
"maybe good for you since you got to just manhandle me around, like some doll," he smirks, hands squeezing your cheeks.
"just how i like you," he teases, going in for another kiss. when the crew isn't around, zoro loves to indulge in your affection. it's obvious with how you two are now passionately making out on the wooden floor. his legs move in between yours, pushing them open so he can slot himself right against you.
his hair is slightly damp due to the sweat of your training session, but you don't mind, pulling at the strands in need. his thick forearms now rest on either side of your head, keeping him propped up to not crush you entirely. as for your lower half, he's shamelessly moving his hips against your own.
"zoro!!! [name]!!! it's time for your monthly check up- AGH!!" chopper's high pitched scream echoes in the crow's nest as well as the sudden slamming of the door. "i didn't see anything!"
"that idiot..." zoro rasps, pulling away from you and resting his forehead against yours as he catches his breath. "fuck, what the hell is his timing?"
you don't say anything in return, simply letting your eyes do the talking. they dart to his pelvis and his cheeks go ablaze, seeing your quirked eyebrow and tilt of your head. wordlessly, you're asking him, "seriously?"
"shut the hell up!! whose fault is that?!"
"yours, you fucking pervert! getting hard from tossing me around and a small makeout session? what are you, a hormonal teenager?"
"shut the fuck up!" he pushes you down onto the wood when you try getting back up, making you laugh at his immature behavior.
"you're such a baby."
"i said, shut up!"
his ears are ruby red as he goes to change into a shirt, glaring at you when his head pops out of the neckline.
"tch, asshole."
"the asshole you got hard for, by the way,"
"stop talking about it!"
you laugh at his flustered state, walking over and kissing him once more, despite the frown on his lips, "let's go and get checked up! you should probably take care of that problem of yours, don't wanna scar chopper even more."
"with your shit attitude, i'm already soft," he spits out with a shove to your shoulder before he himself steadies you again. "why the hell aren't you hard? you think i'm unattractive or something?"
you don't bother hiding your laughter at that question, only making him more mad.
"seriously! that must be the only explanation!" he shouts once more, following you down the ladder of the crow's nest.
"you really want me to air out my business in front of the whole crew, idiot?"
"no, but this conversation is far from over,"
"and i'm the brat..." you murmur under your breath, but his sharp ears somehow pick up on it.
"hah?!" he questions, but you just shake your head and ignore him.
"chopper, we're sorry! we're ready for our check up now!" you say in a sing song voice, "zoro's going to apologize to you properly, he's just sooooo embarassed because he's a horm-"
zoro's big hand clamps over your mouth before you can finish embarrassing him further, "shut the hell up, boy," he grunts in your ear, pressing your backside to his front as he controls your walk to the infirmary.
your slapping his hand, trying to free yourself from his clutches, but he just catches your hand in his other. now you're completely immobilized and forced into silence.
"you gonna behave now?" you nod your head and he finally releases you.
"zoro is-AHH!" he swoops you off of your feet and throws you over his shoulder so you now have an up close view of his back. a sharp smack is delivered to your ass and you're shocked into silence.
"that's what i thought," is his final comment before he's pushing open the door to the infirmary.
⠄･ ⋆ ･ ⠄⠂⋆ ･ ⠄⠂⋆ ･ ⠄
boyfriend zoro who is just so big buff and strong and loves to take you into his hands and move you around every which way because he can because he's so buff and so strong and so big hhmmhmhmhmh yummy
Found: A Zoro x Reader One Piece Fanfiction (with Chopper!)
Note: I wrote this with the Live Action Adaptation in mind so I will follow the same structure that the live action did. I focused on Zoro, the reader and Chopper more.This is heavily unedited. This is the rawest form of the narrative. Typographical errors and grammatical mistakes are expected ahead.
Part 2 Here
_______
After defeating Wapol, Luffy and the crew successfully recruited Chopper as the crew Doctor.
As the Going Merry sails away from Drum Island, Chopper watches his home from the distance, still hugging the backpack that Doctorine packed for him, his tiny hooves clutched the backpack as he tearfully looks at the island slowly fading away.
You see his distress and stood beside him, before you could even speak to him, the dark clouds engulfing the Drum Island turns to pink, and snow starts to fall—only then the cold and pale white snowflakes weren't white, they're pink, falling down gracefully like petals of cherry blossoms.
You gasped at the realization, the stories of Dr. Hiruluk’s dream of curing the ailing hearts of his fellow citizens, his life work and mission to heal their country from the rot that Wapol had caused.
When you first arrived at Drum Island, the snow was biting cold—harsh even, but the pink snowflakes falling down on your skin wasn't stealing the warmth through your bones, instead it seeped through your skin with warmth travelling straight into your heart.
Dr. Hiriluk was right all along.
Chopper wails as he tries to catch the falling snow, remembering the man who took him in, the man whom he sees as his mentor and his father, the man who taught him to heal not just the physical ailments of a patient but their broken hearts too.
He cried clutching his bag, if only he was smart enough to look for the right cure, if he knew better in medicine perhaps…Dr. Hiriluk would see the fall of these pink snowflakes, perhaps his heart would've healed too.
You looked down at the tiny reindeer beside you, you didn't want to overstep, as far as what Doctorine said, Chopper is still mourning for Dr. Hiriluk in his own ways.
Chopper wept like a child, and the ship was filled with silence, calculating how to approach the situation.
In situations like this, Luffy is expected to step in and say the dumbest thing that comes to mind, unintentionally but it works well in diffusing tensions.
However, Chopper's grief is not something you can diffuse, this kid hasn't had any proper closure with the memory of the man whom he sees as his own father. And Chopper's tears are just proof of the legacy that Dr. Hiriluk left behind. He may have been gone but he's alive, his dream lives on through Chopper who became a Doctor like him.
Zoro watched your hesitation as you stood beside the weeping Chopper. He has heard of the poor reindeer’s stories, about Dr. Hiriluk and all that but Zoro took his time to watch you beside Chopper. He knew that look so well. The look you'd always have when you contemplate whether you should step in or not.
You've always been the kind of person who would walk into the path that others would avoid.
So, seeing you hesitate to comfort Chopper is actually a new thing for Zoro. He has only met you when you joined the crew but those times were enough for him to take note of your personality.
When you found out about Laboon's story, you shed a tear for the being, despite being swallowed by the creature along with the ship.
He steps forward standing on Chopper's other side, the little reindeer still cries as the ship slowly sails and the snow starts to fade.
Zoro looks down at the crying Chopper and puts him up gently placing him on his broad shoulder.Chopper made some cute gasping noises but held onto the side of Zoro’s neck.
You watched the interaction with a smile especially when Zoro stood closer to you, you placed a hand on Chopper's back gently brushing his fur.
“Welcome aboard, Chopper.” You whispered gently and Chopper looked at you with big doe eyes glistening.
“Thank you.” He whispered in his tiny voice and you smiled tiptoeing to pat his head through his gigantic hat.
The silence made you realize that the other crews have already gone in and left the three of you sightseeing as the Going Merry sails through the smooth sailing sea.
____
You headed to guide Chopper to the space he'll stay in, you managed to set up a tiny bed for the little reindeer.
Chopper's big eyes wandered around the room, “It's big.” He whispers his eyes full of innocence and wonder. His eyes were practically sparkling, he could finally claim something of his own.
You tucked him to bed with a smile. “Goodnight, Chopper.” You whispered gently. Covering him with a fluffy blanket.
You brushed your delicate fingers in Chopper's fur and he smiled up at you. Your touch brings warmth in his heart, the kind that reminds him of Dr. Hiriluk and a touch that reminds him how he has never experienced such care from his own family and own kind.
“Thank you, Miss YN.” he whispers, yawning and sleepy. His tired body gave in to exhaustion and drifted off to sleep.
_______
You couldn't sleep after tucking Chopper to bed so you went to the kitchen to have some tea and took a couple of balls of yarn that you had lying around your room.
You're planning on knitting a scarf for Chopper, you were originally planning to give him a knitted sweater but you realize it could get in the way when he transforms, he can easily use a scarf no matter what his size is.
Zoro walked into the kitchen when he saw the lights on, he sat beside you drinking the tea in front of you, his face unreadable.
You look up at him to complain about him drinking your tea but you decided to focus on what you were doing instead.
“Playing mom now huh?”
“Shut it, Zoro..” you blushed.
Zoro chuckled and looked at the beginning of the scarf that you're crafting, “Seems nice.” He told you. “He'll surely appreciate it.” he said sipping on your tea once more but you realize he's just working you up so you let him be.
Days with Chopper as an additional family member are surely good. The crew stopped by another island to pick up medicine supplies that Chopper would need for his infirmary.
Since YN is sociable and charming she's usually assigned to assist with shopping. She draws attention but not in a suspicious way, the kind that makes store owners lower the price because she smiles prettily.
She held Chopper's hand tightly as they made their way into the crowded shops. On her other hand was a bunch of supplies they needed.
On the other side walks alongside the two is Zoro with a bored look on his face.
YN pulled Chopper to the side where there's not much crowd, she crouched down on his level brushing his fur.
“Stay with Zoro for me will you? Stay put okay he has a terrible sense of direction. I just have to pick up one last thing on your list and we're good to go.”
When you left the two on their own, Chopper looked up at Zoro blinking. The green haired man looks down at him “To clear things up, I'm the one babysitting you.” he tells him and Chopper blinks, nodding quietly.
As time passes by Chopper grows impatient too, he's starting to walk in circles and Zoro is just as impatient he clicks his tongue and starts walking off looking at Chopper “Heh. If I stay put for another minute I'm growing roots.” He grumbled.
“But Miss YN said—”
“Hush up, fur boy.”
Zoro stops by in front of a stall while Chopper follows closely behind. They're selling sweets, so he bought some and handed it to Chopper. The latter happily took it from his hands munching on the sweets, he followed Zoro closely behind who’s looking at the other stalls that they pass by, he struggles to keep up with his pacing given how tiny he is.
Zoro looks behind him, seeing Chopper still eating the sweets as he tries to keep up. Zoro stopped in his tracks and without a word, he picked up Chopper and placed him on his shoulder.
You were carrying a bunch of supplies walking along The Sun Island, you spotted Sanji buying food supplies with Luffy and you just waved at them, you needed to hurry up and meet up with Zoro and Chopper once again given how impatient Zoro can be.
When you went to the last place where you left them you held your breath, Zoro and Chopper weren’t there and you cussed, Zoro is the worst when it comes to directions, worst case scenario he could easily lose sight of poor Chopper.
You look around frantically and see a commotion nearby, they seem to be watching some parade of the locals, with people wearing vibrant yellow costumes with sun illustrations.
It was a mesmerizing parade, complementing the island’s naturally orange sand. You made your way through the crowd still looking for any green haired muscular man or a sight of your new furry friend.
It was until you heard some giggles nearby, a giggle you knew instantly despite getting to know about it for just a little while. You know there’s no mistaking it, you turn around and see Chopper watching the parade clapping his hands while he sat on Zoro’s broad shoulder, the swordsman, as usual has a bored look on his face, his free hand holds onto his swords, always ready to unsheathe it if anything happens.
You made your way to where they were and smacked Zoro’s arms. “I told you to stay where you were!” you glared and Zoro looked down at you with the same bored look and took the shopping bags you were carrying.
“It’s the kid’s first island stop, let him soak it in.” he whispered looking up at Chopper, sitting on his shoulder completely mesmerized by the parade and didn’t even notice your arrival.
When the loud music and parade came to a halt, Chopper clapped happily, his eyes travelling down and gasping when he saw you looking up at him. He gasped, holding onto the side of Zoro’s head as if hiding, you laughed, realizing Chopper fails to understand he’s always hiding the wrong way, you tiptoed to pinch his cheeks.
“I-I’m sorry, Miss YN! Mr. Zoro said—”
You cut him off handing him a lollipop you bought from one of the merchants around the parade. “It’s fine, did you have fun?” you asked him with a smile as you watched him hold the lollipop close to his chest.
“Yeah, I did! They were dancing around! And—And it’s warm here and there’s a lot of colors and foods! It’s so different from Drum Island.” he exclaimed his voice full of glee and you felt that warmth seep through your heart just by watching him be cheerful.
Your gaze landed on Zoro who’s staring at you with an unreadable expression, you frown tilting your head up to look at him. “Why?” you asked.
Zoro looks away, still carrying the supplies you bought. “Let’s go.” he said in his raspy voice and you just quietly weirded out but you’ve always known Zoro has moments of spacing out so you disregarded it.
You walked side by side while Chopper talked about the parade they watched, you just listened to his stories, a smile plastered on your lips.
Zoro looks at you through his peripheral view, admiring the sparkle in your eyes, and the softness of your voice and gentleness of your gaze when you talk to Chopper.
He could still remember the first time you looked at him that way, after his fight with Mihawk, when he was unconscious, you stayed by his side until he woke up.
A small smile plastered on his lips as he remembers how your delicate fingers cupped his face to check him when he woke up, your frantic worried voice, he remembers it all vividly and he felt a warmth seep through his heart as he remembers you fondly.
The three of you walked up to the shore where the Going Merry awaits, Zoro carefully helped you up the ship, while you carried Chopper in your arms.
Your friends await at the ship, Luffy is waving with Vivi beside him, Nami is calling Sanji out to start dinner, Usopp is looking at the new supplies he bought for his new projects.
Every straw hat crew is an oddball of some sort, in many ways, but in the Going Merry, all of you belong and fit like a puzzle piece.
________
You helped Chopper in setting up the infirmary, helped him put labels on the medicines, and herbs.
While you were sorting out the supplies you bought for his infirmary, you watched him in the corner of your eye turning this very space as his own, you let him do what he wants and occasionally steps in if he needs assistance but you let him take the reins.
“Hehe! It's nicer now isn't it Miss YN?!” he exclaimed, skipping around the infirmary obviously proud of his work.
You smiled, looking around at the room he turned into his own. This space used to be cold and empty, but it seemed vibrant with Chopper hopping around and climbing up the chair to reach for the supplies he set up in his cabinet, he's meticulously checking if you put the proper labels as he taught you and he checked on the bed he set up for himself. His tiny hooves on his waist as he admires his work proudly.
The room is not repainted nor heavily remodeled, but the entire space seems to be brighter now and you realized it's because of the bubbly furry friend you've got in front of you.
Your eyes landed on the stethoscope on the table, you carefully picked it up and made your way to the delighted Chopper still busy admiring his “remodelling job”.
Chopper looked up and blinked when you put the stethoscope on him, gently pinching his cheeks—a habit he realizes you seem to like ever since you've met him in Drum Island.
He looks up at you with his big innocent eyes glistening, he's never seen such tender care in one's eyes other than the mentors he had grown to treat as his very own father and mother figure.
Your touch has always been delicate and gentle, almost as if your touch were as light as feathers.
Chopper started tearing up and you looked at him worriedly, “Hey, hey,” you called out softly cupping his small face in your hands. “What's wrong? Do you miss Doctorine? What's the matter?” You asked your voice as gentle as the soft blanket that envelops Chopper with warmth every night.
“N-no, Sorry..”he mumbles looking up at you as your thumb wipes his tears away.
“Thank you, Miss YN. For everything…” he whispers sniffling and you smile brushing his soft fur.
“There's nothing to thank me for, Chopper. And like I've said, just call me YN.” You reminded him softly.
You watch his doe eyes dilated with wonder and glee, he nods at you whispering your name cutely and giggling.
You remembered the scarf you knitted for him and reached out for your bag, you gently took the scarf you knitted and wrapped it around his tiny body.
“I was originally planning on knitting a sweater given how unpredictable weathers are in our route but I realize you have different forms and it might restrict your movement.” You told him to fix the scarf properly just enough for his mouth to be out.
Chopper hugs the scarf around his neck, he could feel the warmth he's been seeking for after years of cold winter, despite his thick fur coat, his existence has a cold void that's been wanting to be filled and you've been igniting the fire to bring warmth in his cold days.
“Thank you!” He exclaimed teary eyed.
You smiled giggling at his cute expressions, “Always welcome, Chopper.” You whispered and patted his head.
For a while you helped him organize his infirmary and helped him tidy things up.
Once he's well satisfied with the work done, you let him take a breather by admiring his work.
You indulged him for a bit before helping Chopper up in his bed, he seems tired and for someone who spent most his life in a restricted place, he needs some adjustments to get used to the constant motion of the ship.
“Goodnight Chopper.”
Chopper smiled up at you hugging the scarf you knitted for him close to his heart as his eyes closed while he drifted off to sleep.
_____
The next day while the entire crew are still asleep you went out to admire the sunrise on the deck. You stood at the figurehead and Zoro came from the other side of the deck, he stood beside you.
“I heard the Doctor loved his place.”
You smiled sipping your coffee looking at the green haired male and giving him your cup, knowing he probably needed one.
“How long did you sleep?” you asked, watching him take a sip on your cup.
Zoro let the strong taste of brewed coffee roll in his tongue before he answered, “Around 3 hours, I wake up every now and then to make sure no more assassins would get through.” He whispered his grip in his sword tightening.
He handed your coffee back, his eyes lingering at the way you look in the morning, your hair tied up with loose strands framing your face, the sunlight reflecting on your eyes.
“You could've taken turns with the other guys or with us too.” You mumble. You've always known how Zoro takes his role seriously as the sole protector but he does spread himself thin every now and then.
Before Zoro could even protest that he doesn't need such arrangements he heard tappings on the deck he looked down from where they stood beside the figurehead and he saw the hat and antlers peeking out.
“Oho! Sunrise!” Chopper exclaimed seeing the sky lit up.
You and Zoro made your way down seeing Chopper trying to climb to a higher place to see the sunrise, his tiny hooves desperately clinging onto the surface, before you could even take a step forward, Zoro made his way to the small boy and carried him up his shoulder.
“WAAAHH! So pretty! You see this every morning?! I love being a pirate doctor!” He exclaimed hooves up in the air enjoying the morning breeze that rolls with the gentle waves that carries the Going Merry.
Chopper looked at the serious looking Zoro snd blink, “Thank you, Zoro!” He said, clinging onto the side of Zoro's neck, holding on tight.
You smiled at the way Chopper held onto Zoro, the latter just didn't mind and let him be. You made your way beside them and Chopper greeted you.
“Good morning, Miss YN! oh I mean YN…” he corrected himself and you giggled at his cute gasp.
“It's okay if you won't get used to calling me that. I don't mind.” you smiled, pinching his cheeks.
You hooked an arm on Zoro's free arm and leaned on his shoulder, admiring the radiant colors of sunrise.
Zoro looked down at you with a small smile painted on his lips as he let you be while he held Chopper.
Chopper is still in awe of the sunrise, his mouth gaped open and his eyes sparkling.
He observed the two people surrounding him today, when he thinks about family, the ones he originally knew outcasted him, the other two he came to know,—one was taken from him by fate, the other he had to leave to explore and reach his own dreams.
He felt accepted, loved and protected. Every time Zoro held him up, Chopper knew the big green haired man would never let him fall nor get hurt and with you standing next to him and Zoro, Chopper knows you have his back, that when the nights are cold he can hug the scarf you gave him, and when he gets scared at night he knows you'll drop by to tuck him in.
He smiled watching the rising sun shine on them, and at that moment, Chopper finally felt like he belonged, not pitied, but accepted as a whole.
_________
Chopper learned to settle down in the Going Merry; he spends his time studying in the infirmary, making sure that if anyone gets sick or injured his skills would be enough to tend to his crew mates.
He's humming happily wearing his stethoscope as he looks at the medicinal herbs he has. He's listing down the supplies making sure they have enough.
Meanwhile, you went down to call Chopper so he could have dinner. You didn't come in immediately and watch him through the glass window and smiled to yourself seeing how confident he seemed in his own space.
You knocked twice to announce your presence and Chopper looked over his shoulder meeting your gaze and smiling as he waved at you.
“YN!” he says happily climbing down his chair to open the door for you, he waves his tiny hooves at you and you waved back with a smile.
You looked at what he was doing before crouching down to his eye level, “Are you busy, Doctor? Sanji just finished cooking dinner, we need to hurry up before Luffy annihilates all of the food.” You said with feign seriousness, but Chopper has witnessed that Luffy is easily capable of such a feat and hopped into your arms.
“Nah uh, let's eat YN! We can't starve!” he said, holding onto your arms and leaning on your chest as you made your way to the kitchen carrying him all the way there.
Zoro awaits at the table, saving a spot for you and Chopper. When he meets your gaze across the room he simply glances at the empty spots beside him, implying his invitation.
You gently set Chopper down between you and Zoro looking at the other Straw Hats crew gobbling up the food that Sanji cooked.
Luffy is already done eating an entire plate on his own, he occasionally steals some from a clueless Ussop's plate.
The smell of perfectly grilled fish fills the room, Chopper looks down on his plate, eyes sparkling. “Sanji, it smells so good!” He sniffed his food, his blue nose almost diving first into the plate. Zoro shakes his head with a quiet chuckle at his childlike wonder and innocence.
After dinner, you walked Chopper back to the infirmary.
Chopper sat on his bed and invited you to sit down beside him and you did, looking down at him softly.
“You want bed time stories?” You asked with a smile.
It's been a habit of yours to talk about some random stories before Chopper gets to bed when he was new to the Going Merry. It helped him ease up his anxiety in the new place.
“Yeah, tell me about cool stuff.” He said lying down, you tucked him in brushing his fur.
“Well I'll tell you the cool stuff Zoro did at Cactus Island.”
Chopper's eyes widened in anticipation, his doe eyes sparkling. He hasn't seen Zoro in action but he knows he is cool whenever he watches the swordsman train with three swords.
You began your story talking about how you all ended up there, and how you all found out that the whole island is a hoax.
“So, apparently it was an island of assassins specifically from Baroque Works. Zoro fought 100 foes in the bar. He used his swords every turn and every kick he knocked someone down.”
Chopper gasped audibly, the sheer amount of shock and wonder written all over his cute face. “100…wow. Zoro is cool!” He exclaimed.
You kept going about the fights and Chopper as usual is the best reactor to a storyteller. It wasn't long till his eyelids get heavy and he gave in to the pull of sleep before you could even finish the story.
You stopped midway speech brushed his fur with your delicate hands and fixed his blanket before standing up to leave.
When you got out of Chopper's infirmary, you gasped seeing Zoro waiting outside the door. His eyes were closed as he leaned on the wall.
Your eyes widened, your mind thinking whether he heard you telling stories about him to Chopper. You bit your lip trying to physically stop the heat to travel to your cheeks.
Zoro opened his eyes, gaze meeting yours and he smirks teasingly.
“Didn't know you think I'm that cool.”
You cussed mentally but rolled your eyes at him exasperatingly. “Oh please, I had to exaggerate things up a bit so Chopper won't get bored.” You snickered walking past him and heading out to the deck feeling your cheeks heat up. Maybe once you're out in the cold of the sea breeze out there you won't get so worked up.
Zoro follows closely behind, still mumbling about how you painted him as a hero with a smug look on his face. He smirked as he cornered you in the figurehead of the Going Merry he grip the hilt of his swords out of habit, his muscular built loom over your smaller figure.
Zoro looked down at you, let go of his sword finally and reached his hand out to brush his calloused thumb gently on your cheeks.
“Seems like Chopper ain't the only one who loves my adventures.” He smirks.
You almost froze at the bold move and attempted to slap his hand away and Zoro caught it smoothly holding your wrist down to your side.
Zoro studied your face, the heavy breathing, the lip biting, and those rosy cheeks. He's the kind of man who may get lost even in a straight direction but he's not naive to such reactions.
He held your wrist gently yet firmly to your side and stepped closer till he could practically share the same breath with you.
Your brain is malfunctioning, this is not his usual teasing to gas himself up, this is something else he's never done this to Nami, and you bit your lip trying to scheme how to get out of this situation but you're nailed at where you stood with your heart beating erratically you're afraid he could hear it from this distance.
“It's crazy, I don't know which is louder; my heart or yours.” He whispers huskily.
You met his gaze looking up and noticed the subtle deep breaths he takes to regulate his own breathing and you gulped.
“You know, the sea is vast, the waves are harsh, and the path ahead is thorny. And we don't know what tomorrow will bring, what kind of monsters we'll see, or what kind of trouble we'll get into.” Zoro trails off letting go of your wrist brushing a strand of your hair and tucking it behind your ear.
“Shit.” He whispers, “I forgot what I was supposed to say next.” He groaned.
Zoro utters a few string of curses before he looks back up again, “Fuck it—look, why don't we try…” he let out a defeated sigh, letting his head drop on your shoulder his forehead pressed on the side of your neck breathing in your vanilla scent that gets tangled up with the smell of the sea.
You felt your knees weakening at that point, your hand holding onto his biceps for support and you felt Zoro chuckled against your skin.
“I'm not good at all of these. But goddammit, can we stop pretending we don't feel anything?”
He gently pulled away to look at your expressions still letting you hold onto him for support.
You avoided his gaze. You knew what he was talking about, all those late night talks, the shared cup of coffee or tea, the frantic look to search for one another whenever trouble is up ahead.
It's been months, you have no idea when it even started. But you and Zoro have created a bond you believe won't be classified as plain crew mates aboard a ship.
“But what if—”
Zoro cupped your face, cutting your hesitations off. “We can deal with all that may happen when we get there. But tonight…can't it just be about what we feel here and now?” He nipped your chin between his fingers.
You let out a soft chuckle, “So eager aren't we?” You finally found your footing, tilting your head to start firing back at him and Zoro's gaze landed on the smirk playing on your lips.
“With those lips looking like that of course I would—so…”
He gulped his eyes silently asking for one last sign of agreement or disagreement if there's any before he could lean down.
However, Zoro didn't expect you'll grip the hem of his shirt to pull him down to meet him halfway.
When his lips crash against yours his hand finds its way on your waist pulling you closer, his free hand cupping the back of your nape gently brushing as he releases months of his pent up longing to hold you close.
He only pulled away to let you both catch your breath, he's smirking as he looks down at you biting his own lip.
“Well I'll be damned. You have me wrapped around your delicate fingers, woman.”
You laughed, biting your lip hitting his broad chest. “Since when did you become a suave talker?” You raised your brows.
Zoro shrugged, pulling you closer. “Well, that's just the way I am.” He smirked, leaning down for another quick kiss.
It had you giggling in his arms as you wrapped your arms around his torso, he pulled you closer instinctively as the cold breeze of the sea engulfs you both.
Zoro admires your face from upclose, his calloused thumb brushing on your cheek, his eyes tracing every facial feature, and he couldn't help but lean down once more for another kiss.
You melt into his touch, his touch igniting a fire within you enough to battle the cold sea wind as you hold onto him.
You both made a paradise for yourselves at that moment just the two of you wrapped in each other's arms in the middle of the cold windy night but the two of you pulled away from the kiss upon hearing a soft cry nearby.
“YN?! Zoro?!”
Chopper's hooves tap around the deck as he sobs, he actively tries to wipe his own tears but his sight gets blurry even more from tears.
“I had a bad dream, where are you?” He cries calling out and searching, the scarf you knitted for him wrapped around his neck to keep him warm.
You gently pushed Zoro off of you and headed down to meet Chopper, when he spotted you, the boy wailed like a lost child jumping into your arms as he cried. You carried him in your arms cradling him close to your chest sharing your warmth to him
“It's scary, I couldn't find you both. The abominable snowman was there, it was gonna take me.” Chopper sniffles holding onto you.
Zoro appeared behind you patting Chopper’s back. “Seems like you don't know me, kid. No abominable snowman would be strong enough to defeat me. So, your bad dream will always be just a bad dream.” He whispers, his voice husky his hands on your waist, watching Chopper bury his face on your neck.
Chopper calmed down from your comfort and looked up at Zoro, “Are you gonna defeat it like you fought 100 foes?” He sniffled.
Zoro smirks. “Damn right I would.” He answered smugly, “So, keep your head up, kid. As long as I stand—we stand no one's gonna get to you. Right YN?” he turned to you and you nodded with a smile looking down at Chopper in your arms.
“No worries about the abominable snowman, Chopper. You'll be fine.” You whispered gently, wiping his tears away.
When Chopper calmed down from his bad dream, you and Zoro made your way to the infirmary to tuck him in.
Zoro crossed his arms over his chest, watching you sit on the edge of the bed, covering Chopper up with his warm blanket brushing his fur gently, “Sleep tight kid, we're here to keep watch.” Zoro whispers assuringly.
“You're so cool, Zoro.” Chopper whispers sleepily, the adrenaline from his fear in his bad dream starts to wear off and he looks up at you.
“You're cool too, YN…” he yawns, his eyelids getting heavy as you keep on brushing his fur, he whispers slurry goodnights before drifting off to sleep.
You kissed Chopper’s forehead gently, standing up carefully to not make any sounds. You looked behind and saw Zoro with a small smile on his lips.
Zoro pulled you close to him kissing your forehead as you both watched Chopper's breathing even out. You hold onto Zoro's big arms around your waist as he hugs you from behind.
Inside that tiny little room, there's no room for the abominable snowman to exist, Chopper is watched over and guarded by two people who are willing to protect and help him face the rough waves and paths ahead with his childlike wonder and innocence.
𑣲ㅤ m's warningsㅤ ◞ fluuuuufff, sfw, established relationship, reader has no specified gender
𑣲ㅤ m's synopsisㅤ ◞ when someone happens to catch a glance of your beauty, they don't realize you came with the person who keep your love in a locket that encases their heart too (someone hitting on their partner)
𑣲ㅤ m's noteㅤ ◞ i've been binging one piece recently + one piece live action !! i'm going to use OPLA! sanji for his part because anime sanji is not my sanji. (/j)
ꫂ᭪݁ when luffy sees taking up the seat he had already claimed so he could get a better look at his partner—god he was just gone for a second! that signature toothy grin left his face immediately as he stared the man down from behind. unfortunately for the poor guy who was barely done with his cheesy line, something about you being the one four him??
"are you done yet." a familiar voice that takes on a different tone enters his ear, turning around to look at who it may be... "woah, chill man i didn'-"
a cold wave of goosebumps washes over the stranger, heart dropping to his ass, the man who was just jumping around with joy out of saving his island's lives from another bunch of pirates who couldn't do anything but terrorize others- just dead, staring straight at him.
as soon as he leaves, i fear he's still giving him the deathstare throughout all the noise, and laughter that's present.
"aw, are you jealous?" you teased as you watched him let the meat in front of him simply idle, "huh? i just can't tell why so many people are after you when i go to get seconds!"
"maybe you are the one piece..." — "...is that a threat or a compliment?"
ꫂ᭪݁ zoro is not thinking of any other way to get them to shut up other than to quite literally shut them down and slice through them, have the stupid dartbrow cook bake them into a pie, and have them thrown off into the sea somewhere.
he was ordering you a meal since he wanted to pay for the both of you this time, no matter how much cheese you want sprinkled atop your pasta, or how many espresso shots with whipped cream are in and on your drink; whatever you wanted, he wouldn't mind giving you the world.
so when he turns his head to find somebody taking up the seat at the table HE camped for- trust me he is livid.
"a window seat all by yourself hu-?" the stranger's words being completely cut off when a large shadow covered them. "you got a death wish or something? terrible line by the way."
as the person walks off, he slides you your drink, "you know if ever that happens, don't hesitate to tell me, yeah?"
ꫂ᭪݁ sanji smirks, smirks at the mere thought of someone even thinking of taking you from him. he thinks its funny, you were just sitting at the bar idly, watching him make drinks for customers to help out the owner of the place a bit. the old man deserved a break, so you didn't really mind just supporting sanji on the side for now.
but he didn't expect there to be a queue in order to talk to his partner. HIS partner. did i mention you were his partner yet or what.
"sitting by yourself, or what, eye candy?" a lady sat herself right beside you, a half-empty wine glass in her other hand, and the other quickly occupied your forearm.
"'m just waiting on my boyfriend to finish his shift," you state with disinterest in your voice, in the hopes of the woman backing off after hearing a mention of a partner. "oh, pretty, he doesn't have to know about us,"
"'scuse me, they're here with me. always with me." sliding you a drink, flashing you a sweet smile before it turns to a smug grin as he turns to the woman.
"jeez, have fun with your boytoy then." rolling her eyes as she picks up her things and walks off. "jealous much?" you took a sip from the glass, "only over you, mon cœur."
ꫂ᭪݁ you and robin were in charge of helping chopper pick things out in the market, as he carried the rest of the inventory on his back, you two followed the list the furry little doctor handed the two of you previously.
no one has ever actually tried to hit on you before, it's either they assume you're together, or you both are too hot to have a partner. that was up until today, when you and chopper sat at a cafe, ordering things the last few things.
rosemary
chamomile
valerian root
that should wrap it up for now, exhaling a sigh of relief, she couldn't wait to taste the yogurt mousse, sprinkled with chocolate chips on top, she could already smell it.
"hey, i've never seen ya around here..." a lady with pretty blonde hair sat in front of you, chopper stared nervously between the two of you, silently taking bites from his piece of cake.
you tilted your head in confusion, "sorry that chair is taken by-" "you guys aren't serious, though... right?" the desperate tone in her voice became clearer when her hand hovered yours for a moment; face glowing red.
"i'd like to think we are." robin places a cold hand on her shoulder, making the girl jump out of her seat. walking away on eggshells as you let out a laugh. "i didn't take you to be possessive." - "i just don't like it when people try to take what's mine."
ꫂ᭪݁ nami wanted to shop around with you for a little bit, for the little peace you two could share off the boat and by yourselves. talk about privacy being a luxury nowadays... roaming into every shop, you felt like your girlfriend was dolling you up every single boutique you visited!!
waiting outside the dressing room to see the outfit she picked out for herself, or better yet, outfits she picked out for herself, you loved to see her in anything to be very frank.
while checking out the items you two have already spent god knows how many berries on, the clothing clerk that was assisting the both of you with the clothing felt as though something was off between you two.
"hey, i haven't ever seen you around here before... if you're new to town i would happily give you a tour! 100% off, the only price you pay is dinner with me tonight?"
being bombarded with so much information so fast and so willingly, you were stated speechless, your mouth slightly agape, trying to say something but nothing comes out. at least nami can say it for you!
"they're taken. can you move along now?" - "wait but-" - "i said, move. along."
her fierce tone quickly got them to flee the scene back over to the counter they were legally supposed to be at in the first place. "wow, jealous nami? really?"
"oh please, the one time we go out just the two of us, we still get bothered! unbelievable."
ꫂ᭪݁ it was... hard not to know that you were usopp's partner, i mean, with him being so freaking proud of just getting to be by your side. you were a topic he always ends up tracing back to when he tells stories, hell even when he listens to them!
so when you were helping out with keeping the ship in the harbor, letting the others explore the new island first so you could (finally) have alone time with captain usopp the great; some boat boy thought it was a great idea to…
“oh- my bad, beautiful!” is what the stranger let out when you accidentally bumped into him when you meant to go get more rope. “no problem, ‘scuse me!” — “hey, where ya offta, pretty? spare me a few seconds, who knows, i might give ya the night of ya life.”
a wave of uncomfortability, the box in your arms starting to slip, “sorry, i have a boyfriend.” you picked the box up once more before trying to face away. “what? you mean that scrawny little pirate on the ship? ya call that yer boyfriend?”
letting out a loud, loud, loud laugh, he could barely control himself before— thunk!
“ouch! what the—?!” turning around, there was no one there, but when he went to face you again, how in the world did this—!?
“hey baby! ahem, what were you saying?” pointing his slingshot at the man, watching him walk off with grunts on every step
😭😭 need Monster trio (separately) x pregnant reader. all fluffy
like their reaction and how would they be during it 😓
but if u dont want to just ignore this!
Pregnant 🫵
how would they react at your pregnancy?
characters: luffy, zoro, sanji
words count: around 0.5k - 0.8k each
next part: 🫵 into labor - 🫵 made him a dad
masterlist || ao3 || ko-fi
── .✦ Luffy:
The sea breeze is warm as you stand on the Sunny’s deck, heart racing. Luffy is lying nearby, hands behind his head, smiling at the sky. His straw hat rests on his face, rising and falling with his steady breaths.
You swallow hard. This is it.
You walk up to him and poke his cheek “Luffy.”
His nose scrunches up, and he lifts his hat just enough to peek at you “Hmm?”
You sit down next to him. Your hands shake a little. He notices. His hat slides off his face completely, and he blinks at you “What’s wrong?”
You take a deep breath “I… I have something to tell you.”
Luffy sits up fast. His eyes are wide, full of curiosity “Oh! Is it something cool?!”
You let out a small laugh “Yeah… really cool.” You reach for his hand and place it gently over your stomach. “Luffy, I’m pregnant.”
He stares at you. Blinks once. Then twice. His fingers twitch against your belly.
Then— “WHAAAAAAT?!” he jumps up so fast that he nearly topples over. His hands flail before gently grabbing your shoulders “Really?! A baby?! OUR baby?!”
You nod, laughing at his reaction “Yeah.”
Luffy’s grin stretches wider than you’ve ever seen. He wraps his arms around you, squeezing tight “This is awesome!! I’m gonna be a dad?!” he pulls back, eyes sparkling “Wait, wait—does this mean there’s a tiny me in there?! Like—super tiny?!”
You giggle “Kind of.”
Luffy gasps dramatically “That’s so weird—but so cool!!” he crouches down and presses his ear against your belly, pouting “Oi, baby! Can you hear me? I’m your dad! Your super cool, super strong dad!”
You ruffle his hair “It’s too early for them to hear you, Luffy.”
He sits back, looking thoughtful. Then he beams again “I gotta tell everyone!!” Before you can stop him, he takes a deep breath and then—
“GUUUUYS! (Y/N) HAS A BABY IN HER BELLY!”
Footsteps thunder across the ship as the crew comes running. Nami facepalms, Zoro groans, Sanji faints, Usopp starts panicking, and Chopper yells something about medical checkups.
Luffy just sits there, hands on your stomach, grinning like he’s just found the One Piece.
Months Later
Luffy is… something else during your pregnancy.
He pokes your belly every day, fascinated by how it grows “It’s getting huge!!” he exclaims one morning, eyes wide “Are you sure there’s only one baby in there?!”
He steals extra food from Sanji’s kitchen and piles it on your plate “Eat! The baby needs to be strong, like me!”
He refuses to let you do anything dangerous “No fights! No running! No carrying heavy stuff! That’s my job now!” He puffs out his chest making you smile softly at him “Captain’s orders!”
At night, he talks to your belly in a serious tone “Okay, listen, baby. When you come out, we’re gonna have so much fun! I’ll show you how to stretch like me! And how to eat tons of meat! And we’ll go on super cool adventures!”
One night, as you lay in bed, his arms wrapped protectively around you, he mumbles sleepily “Love you. Both of you.”
Your heart melts. You smile, placing your hand over his “Love you too, Luffy.”
He grins even in his sleep, dreaming of the greatest adventure yet, being a dad.
── .✦ Zoro:
The evening air is warm as you stand on the deck of the Thousand Sunny, watching the ocean waves. Your heart beats fast, but not from battle or danger, but from the words you need to say.
Behind you, Zoro trains like always. His swords cut through the air with sharp precision, muscles flexing as he moves. His brows furrow in focus, sweat dripping down his forehead.
You take a deep breath. Now or never.
“Zoro”
He stops mid-swing, turning to you “Huh?” His tone is rough, but his gaze softens when he sees your expression “Something wrong?”
You step closer, gripping the hem of your shirt. Your nerves make your fingers twitch, but you push through. You have to tell him.
“…I need to tell you something important.”
Zoro sheaths his swords, sensing your seriousness. He crosses his arms “Yeah?”
You swallow. Then, carefully, you take his hand and place it over your stomach.
“I’m pregnant...”
Silence.
Zoro doesn’t move. Doesn’t blink. It’s like the words haven’t registered yet. His hand rests on your stomach, fingers barely pressing into the fabric of your shirt.
“…What?” His voice is quiet, actually too quiet for him.
You squeeze his hand “We’re having a baby, Zoro.”
His breath catches. He stares at you, eyes flicking between your face and where his hand rests on your stomach. His fingers twitch slightly. A baby. His baby.
Then, suddenly, you’re lifted off the ground.
“Zoro—!” you laugh as he picks you up effortlessly, holding you close. His grip is firm but careful, like you’re the most precious thing in the world.
When he finally sets you down, his hands linger on your arms, steadying you. His face is unreadable for a second, and then a smirk.
“Tch. Guess I really have to get stronger now.”
You raise an eyebrow “Why?”
Zoro’s smirk softens just a little. His thumb brushes your stomach lightly “To protect both of you.”
Your heart swells. He’s serious.
You press your forehead against his “You’re already strong enough, idiot.”
Zoro scoffs “There’s no such thing.”
Then, after a pause, he mutters “…Are you okay?”
The question is so simple, but the weight behind it makes your eyes sting.
You nod “Yeah. Just… nervous.”
Zoro’s arms tighten around you “Me too.”
You pull back slightly, surprised “You? The great Roronoa Zoro? Nervous?”
He clicks his tongue “Tch. This is different” he glances at your stomach “Fights, enemies, swords—I know how to handle those. But this?” His hand brushes your belly again, softer this time “This is new.”
You smile, lacing your fingers with his “We’ll figure it out together.”
He exhales, like a weight has lifted from his chest “Yeah.”
And for the first time in a long time, Zoro doesn’t feel lost at all.
Months Later
Zoro is the most overprotective person ever.
He watches you like a hawk. If you so much as sigh, he’s next to you in a second.
“You okay?”
You roll your eyes “Yes, Zoro. For the hundredth time, I’m fine.”
He grumbles but doesn’t stop hovering.
He always refuses to let you lift anything.
You reach for a barrel and then “Put that down.”
You try to carry plates from the kitchen and he goes “I got it.”
You bend down to pick up a book, Zoro glares and “What did I just say?”
He even walks with you everywhere.
“You don’t have to follow me to the bathroom.”
“What if you trip?”
“Zoro.”
“…What if an enemy attacks?”
You groan, but he just folds his arms and stays put.
He also naps closer to you now.
Zoro still sleeps a lot, but now he always makes sure to be near you. Some days, he dozes off with his head on your lap, his arm draped over your growing belly.
You run your fingers through his hair, feeling his slow, steady breathing. He won’t say it out loud, but you know he’s nervous, and this is how he comforts himself.
One time, you catch him talking to your stomach when he thinks you’re asleep.
“You better not kick too hard in there… Your mom needs to sleep” His voice is quiet but gruff. Then, after a long pause, he adds, “…Can’t wait to meet you, though.”
Your heart melts.
Later that night, you whisper “Are you scared?”
Zoro is silent for a moment. Then, he exhales “A little.”
You lace your fingers with his “Me too.”
He turns his head to look at you, eyes steady “We’ll figure it out.”
You smile “Yeah.”
Zoro presses his forehead against yours “Get some sleep.”
As you drift off, Zoro stays awake a little longer, hand resting on your belly.
For the first time, he’s facing a future he can’t predict, a battle he can’t train for.
But he knows one thing for sure—he will always protect you. And your child.
No matter what.
── .✦ Sanji:
The smell of fresh bread and sizzling butter fills the Thousand Sunny’s kitchen as you sit at the counter, watching Sanji move. He hums to himself while stirring a pot, completely in his element. His blonde hair falls over his eyes, but he doesn’t seem to care.
You take a deep breath, heart racing. It’s time to tell him.
“Sanji...” you say softly.
He turns instantly, smiling “Yes, my love? Dinner will be ready soon.”
You shake your head “I… need to tell you something first.”
Sanji notices your serious tone and wipes his hands on a towel before walking over “What is it, sweetheart?” He tucks a strand of hair behind your ear, concern in his ocean-blue eyes.
You take his hand and press it against your stomach.
“I’m pregnant”
Sanji freezes.
His fingers twitch slightly against your belly, his usual smooth confidence suddenly gone. His mouth opens, but no words come out. His cigarette almost falls from his lips.
“…What?” his voice is barely a whisper.
You smile nervously “We’re having a baby.”
Sanji stares at you, his eyes wide. Then—
THUMP.
His legs give out, and he falls to his knees in front of you. His hands stay on your stomach as he looks up, completely overwhelmed.
“You’re… serious?” His voice shakes “I—I’m going to be a father?”
You nod, tears prickling in your eyes “Yeah.”
A sharp inhale. Then, suddenly, Sanji buries his face against your stomach, arms wrapping around you so gently, as if he’s afraid to break you.
“Mon amour… I don’t even know what to say” he murmurs, voice thick with emotion. You feel his breath against your skin, warm and shaky “This is the greatest gift you could ever give me.”
You stroke his hair, heart swelling “So… you’re happy?”
Sanji pulls back slightly, grinning through tears “Happy? (Y/N), I feel like I just won the whole damn world.”
Then, his hands cup your cheeks, and he kisses you—soft, deep, full of love.
“Wait—!” He pulls away suddenly, eyes wide “You need food! Proper nutrition! I need to—” He rushes toward the kitchen, grabbing ingredients at lightning speed “I’ll make you something right now—no, I’ll make ten meals—no, twenty! The baby needs to eat too!”
You laugh, watching him run around in a panicked, love-struck frenzy.
Sanji is going to be the best dad.
Months Later
Sanji is the most devoted, doting, over-the-top partner ever.
He refuses to let you do anything.
You try to stand up? He’s already pulling out a chair for you.
You reach for a glass? It’s in your hand before you can blink.
You sigh in the heat? He’s fanning you immediately.
“Sanji, I’m pregnant, not broken” you groan.
“My love, you are carrying our child!” He places a dramatic hand over his heart “I refuse to let you lift a single finger!”
Sanji cooks nonstop for you.
“Here, sweetheart, eat this.”
“Sanji, I just ate five minutes ago—”
“The baby might still be hungry!”
He talks to your belly constantly.
“Hello, little one! This is your father speaking.” He presses a kiss to your stomach “I hope you’re nice and comfortable in there. When you come out, I’ll make you the most delicious food in the world!”
Then, more seriously, he whispers “And I’ll take care of you. You and your mother. Forever.”
Your eyes tear up every time.
At night, Sanji holds you close, his hand resting protectively over your growing belly.
“You should sleep” you murmur, noticing he’s still awake.
“I’m just… thinking” he admits.
“About what?”
Sanji sighs softly “I never thought I’d have this,” he says “A family. Someone to love… and now, both of you.” He presses a gentle kiss to your forehead. “It’s like a dream.”
You smile, lacing your fingers with his “Then let’s make it the best dream ever.”
Sanji chuckles, pulling you even closer “Oui, mon amour.”
As you drift off, you feel his lips brush against your stomach once more.
And you know, without a doubt Sanji will love this baby with everything he has.
Summary: Zoro has never been good with words, so when your birthday arrives, he decides to show his love the only way he knows how.
Word count: about 7300
Contains: tooth rotting fluff, romance, established relationship, light humor, gift giving, kissing, lots of lovesick Zoro, flustered Zoro, protective Zoro, soft Zoro, thoughtful Zoro, birthday themes, wishes (mainly his).
Warning: fem!reader, mention of y\n a times, summer birthday
Author's note: I got a little carried away with this one. 😅 Consider this your warning: it's very long, very sugary, and absolutely overflowing with enough fluff to rot your teeth.
This is a birthday special I wrote as a gift for myself, but I figured I'd share the sugar rush with all of you too. So here it is—a shameless indulgence in soft moments, ridiculous amounts of affection, and enough sweetness to last a lifetime.
Enjoy the fluff, and thank you, as always, for reading. 💕
He watched you from the corner of his eye, captivated for a moment by the effortless grace in the way you moved, by your infectious laughter, by the kindness that seemed to come as naturally to you as breathing.
You were crouched beside Luffy, patiently trying to untangle the knot he'd somehow tied his own tongue into while attempting to prove some ridiculous point to Usopp—probably how many times he could wrap it around a post before spinning like a top. Chopper hovered nearby in complete panic.
No one else had the patience to deal with the seventeenth crisis your captain had created for himself that day.
Except you.
The golden hour draped sunlight over your hair, painting every loose strand with molten gold. Even from where he stood, Zoro could see the warm glow resting against your cheeks and catching on your lashes, as though the sun itself had decided you deserved its full attention.
You were beautiful.
More beautiful than he could ever hope to put into words. Not just because he wasn’t good with them. Though, admittedly, he wasn’t. At least not in the way people expected a man in love to be.
No. He just considered it impossible. Some things simply couldn't be translated into language.
Besides, words seemed... unnecessary.
Why would he need sweet, honey-coated lines like Sanji used? That damned cook fluttered around every woman unfortunate enough to wander into his line of sight.
Zoro had always believed love was something private. Something that revealed itself through actions instead of speeches.
Curly Brows would probably lose his mind if he ever heard what Zoro considered romantic:
Keeping your blades razor sharp.
Saving you a place beside him whenever he sat down.
Letting you rest against his shoulder during naps.
Sharing food. Sharing drinks.
He'd even let you use Wado Ichimonji—his most treasured sword—when the two of you trained together, trusting you enough to place it in your hands.
During every fight, he'd instinctively move toward your side, and the moment the battle ended, he'd look for you before anyone else.
If you were cold, you'd have his haramaki without hesitation. His jacket too, on the rare occasions he actually wore one.
And perhaps the greatest proof of affection he could offer: he let you tend to his injuries, even before Chopper.
That had to mean something.
At least... he hoped you knew it did.
There wasn't another soul alive with whom he'd willingly eat from the same plate, stealing bites from each other between quiet conversations.
There wasn’t another person he’d happily sit beside in comfortable silence for hours. The kind that somehow filled every empty space inside him.
You were the only person allowed to interrupt his training whenever you pleased.
You could even force him to take a bath.
In fact, Nami had realized something was seriously wrong several months before you started dating, when Zoro suddenly began bathing more regularly. He’d even asked her for money to buy deodorant and cologne at the next port.
If the two of you were going to spend so much time together, he wanted you to feel comfortable around him.
He told himself not to stare.
Not because he didn't want to, but because every glance made it harder to remember there was a world beyond you.
Looking away should have helped.
Instead, he carried your image with him all the same.
Now that the two of you had been together for a little while—not very long, but long enough—he wanted to express his feelings a little better.
The perfect opportunity presented itself when he overheard that the next few islands on your route would all be celebrating the beginning of summer with festivals.
For days he'd wrestled with the idea, trying to figure out how to make everything work.
Then he remembered a conversation he'd never admit to eavesdropping on, back when all of you were still relatively new crewmates.
It had been near the end of summer.
The Going Merry had docked at a lively little town celebrating its annual festival, overflowing with paper lanterns, music drifting through every street, food stalls packed shoulder to shoulder, and carnival games lining the square.
The day had been chaotic, as most days with the Straw Hats tended to be.
But also surprisingly peaceful.
No life-threatening disasters.
No Marines.
No bounty hunters.
Just your crew causing their own brand of mayhem, as per usual.
Luffy somehow managed to eat what looked like half the festival's food supply.
Usopp insisted on trying every carnival game he could find, losing each one with spectacular consistency while loudly claiming every booth was rigged.
Sanji disappeared within the first ten seconds, sprinting across town to flirt with every woman he passed, buying them snacks, winning stuffed animals for complete strangers and generally making a fool of himself.
Nami convinced you to browse the market stalls overflowing with pretty little trinkets—hairpins, ribbons, charms, and handcrafted jewelry.
Meanwhile, Zoro declared festivals "too damn noisy" and wandered a few paces behind everyone else.
Though somehow he always remained close enough to step in if trouble appeared.
By the time darkness settled over the sea and everyone returned to the Merry, the crew was completely exhausted.
Luffy and Usopp had collapsed almost immediately, completely worn out after burning through every ounce of energy they possessed.
Sanji stood in the galley washing dishes.
Zoro rested against the main mast, arms folded across his chest, eyes closed.
Or at least they appeared closed.
You and Nami sat near the railing with your legs dangling over the edge, listening to the waves in comfortable silence.
Then Nami glanced your way.
“You looked like you were having fun today.”
You smiled.
"More than I expected."
"I would've guessed festivals were your thing."
A soft laugh escaped you.
"Actually... I've only ever been to one. Maybe two. When I was a kid"
Nami turned toward you.
"Really? You seem exactly like the kind of person who’d love summer festivals."
You looked out over the moonlit sea.
"I don't dislike them... I just never really had the chance."
Your voice softened with nostalgia.
"I remember going on the first day of summer. It was my birthday, so after the celebration and family lunch they took me to the festival."
You smiled faintly.
"I don't remember many details. Just the feeling of it. The lanterns and all those lights. It felt magical. As if the sky had filled with fireflies and somehow come down to meet the earth."
For a moment, you seemed far away. Wrapped in memories.
Then you smiled and nudged Nami lightly.
"What about you? Summer festivals or winter ones?"
And just like that, the conversation shifted.
The two of you spent the next hour sharing stories, jokes, and memories while the ship rocked gently beneath the stars.
Throughout all of it, Zoro never opened his eyes, but he heard every single word.
Without realizing it, the first day of summer lodged itself somewhere deep in his mind.
Like a mark carved into stone.
He had no idea how important that memory would become almost a year later.
He had absolutely no intention of involving the rest of the crew.
They were far too loud.
Too chaotic.
Too likely to ruin everything.
Sanji would go completely overboard and somehow turn the entire day into a five-star romantic spectacle. The damned curly-brow would probably smother you under flowers, gourmet meals, and enough dramatic declarations to last a lifetime.
Luffy would eat all the food, including the cake.
The girls would steal you away for half the day.
Chopper, your greatest weakness and everyone’s favorite little reindeer, would have you cooing over him within minutes.
And Usopp… He would spend hours telling increasingly ridiculous stories until sunset.
No.
This wasn’t supposed to be everyone’s celebration.
It was supposed to be yours. Your day.
And his.
Preferably every year from now until the end of time.
The thought made his ears warm.
Tch.
Ignoring that entirely, Zoro decided he would put together something that would make you smile.
Something that would show you he could be thoughtful. Romantic, even.
Though he’d rather swallow one of his swords than admit that part out loud.
For weeks, the human seaweed prepared himself mentally.
Ideas drifted endlessly through his mind as he worked through countless squats, push-ups, and sit-ups, while he drank sake or pretended to nap.
Perhaps you would enjoy spending some time in a bookstore, even though he knew next to nothing about books. Or maybe the beach. A cliff overlooking the sea. A meadow in bloom. The summer festival. A good restaurant.
The problem was that he wasn't an expert in any of those things, so, with a reluctance he would never admit aloud, he found himself listening in on conversations between his crewmates and even complete strangers in the street, hoping that someone might unknowingly offer the kind of suggestion he was searching for.
Unfortunately, he was still limited by two major problems.
The first was that he had no idea what the next island would look like.
The second was that he was Roronoa Zoro.
Navigation wasn’t exactly his strongest skill.
Why is this so damn difficult?
I know her better than I know myself.
So how am I struggling this much over something this simple?
Yet Zoro approached the whole endeavor with the same quiet determination he had devoted to every promise he had ever made.
That he would become the greatest swordsman in the world.
That he would help his captain become the King of the Pirates.
And the promise he had never spoken aloud, yet carried just as seriously as the others: to remain by your side and do everything in his power to make you happy.
You had woken before dawn.
After quietly getting ready, you slipped out onto the deck to watch the sunrise.
Another year gone.
The horizon shifted faster than seemed possible, bleeding from crimson into gold, then soft pinks and violets before finally surrendering to blue. The colors melted into the sea until sky and water became impossible to separate. A cool breeze drifted across the deck, making you wish you’d thought to bring something warmer.
No sunrise was ever quite the same.
Suddenly, strong arms slipped around you from behind, warmth replacing the morning chill almost instantly.
“Out here before sunrise again.” Zoro rested his chin on top of your head. “Trying to get sick?”
His chin settled lightly on top of your head.
You smiled and leaned back into him, gently wrapping your hands around his forearms.
“You’re the last person who gets to lecture me. I’ve seen you walk around shirtless during snowstorms.”
A quiet snort escaped him.
“That’s different.”
“Oh?”
"I train for that."
You rolled your eyes.
After a brief silence, he grew thoughtful and then spoke again.
"We'll be docking soon."
You glanced up.
“Hm?”
“Get ready.” He paused. “We’re heading into town. Need supplies.”
That earned an immediate look.
It wasn't exactly unusual for people to restock when they reached an island.
But hearing Zoro volunteer so eagerly to help stock the ship… That was definitely new.
“What?”
“Nothing.”
The grin spreading across your face suggested otherwise.
"It’s just... I can’t help but wonder what possessed Nami and Sanji to send you on the supply run"
His eyebrow twitched.
“You don’t exactly radiate competence when it comes to finding your way anywhere,” you continued sweetly. “But I’m sure you’ll return with everything we need.”
A beat.
“Eventually.”
Zoro groaned.
You were impossible.
A pretty little menace.
You laughed as he lightly knocked his shoulder against yours before pulling you closer again.
His ears were already burning.
“Just go get ready.”
When you stepped back onto the deck a little while later, Zoro forgot how to breathe.
A pale green summer dress flowed around your legs, scattered with flowers that deepened in color toward the hem. The fitted waist emphasized your figure, while your loose hair danced in the morning breeze, carrying the familiar scent of your perfume with it.
You looked beautiful.
For the second time that morning, the Straw Hats’ swordsman felt heat flood his face.
Unfortunately, he wasn’t the only one who noticed.
A strangled noise erupted from across the deck.
“My loooooove!”
Sanji collapsed to his knees almost immediately.
Then, as if propelled by forces beyond mortal understanding, began floating toward you with hearts in his eyes and blood pouring from his nose.
“Heaven has blessed this ship!”
The next thing anyone heard was the unmistakable sound of Zoro’s fist connecting with his skull.
“Shut up.”
Then it was your turn to stare, blinking a few times just to make sure you weren’t seeing things.
Instead of his usual white shirt, haramaki, black trousers and boots, Zoro stood before you wearing dark jeans, a striped button-up shirt and, somehow even more shocking, actual shoes.
You walked up to him with a grin that stretched from ear to ear and wrapped both hands around his arm, openly admiring him.
“…Zoro.”
“Tch,” he grumbled, already flustered under your gaze.
“You look so handsome!” you exclaimed, staring at him openly, which did absolutely nothing to improve his current predicament. If anything, it seemed as though a flame had started climbing up his neck, swallowing his ears in its wake.
"...Tch."
"I mean it."
"Knock it off," his voice sounded strained.
You only smiled wider. Instead of listening, you stepped even closer until barely any space remained between you.
The fresh scent of citrus and clean white musk reached you. You leaned toward his neck, breathing it in for a moment.
His entire body froze.
"...Oi, what are you doing?"
Looking deep into his eyes, you gently brushed your lips against his cheek, then the corner of his mouth.
"I'm admiring my handsome boyfriend."
He cleared his throat. His heart felt ready to leap from his chest and sink straight to the bottom of the sea.
The swordsman then mumbled something incoherent, some secret Zoro language of which the two of you were the only fluent speakers.
"Quit talking nonsense," he muttered, "My haramaki needed washing, so... I just threw this on."
You couldn't help laughing softly.
It was such a painfully Zoro explanation.
Looking away, he took your hand gently, so gently that no one would have expected it from the green-haired brute. Then he looked at you again, something so sincere and delicate flickering behind his eyes. His thumb brushed across your knuckles before he lifted your hand and pressed a kiss against your shoulder.
“You look beautiful.”
The words came out quieter than usual.
Then, before you could recover enough to tease him, he averted his gaze once more and hurriedly tugged you along toward the gangplank, leaving behind a crowd of thoroughly entertained crewmates.
The tips of his ears still burned with heat the entire way.
The first place he took you was a small café near the harbor.
This came to the immense outrage of your cook, who had immediately launched into a tirade about your marimo neglecting and mistreating a lady after deciding the two of you should leave the ship as quickly as possible, before even touching the carefully prepared breakfast and coffee.
He sat with you, doing his best not to order sake first thing in the morning out of sheer nervousness.
You picked your favorite meal and a cup of coffee, contentedly taking in the little town from the outdoor seating area and enjoying the breeze drifting in from the nearby sea.
Zoro watched you, warmth filling his chest.
He hoped there would be many more mornings like this by your side.
Then he surveyed the shops around you. Hopefully there would be some of your favorites nearby. Bookstores. Clothing boutiques. Accessory shops. Ice cream parlors…
After you’d finally convinced him to try a bite of your sweet croissant, then brushed the crumbs from his chin and shirt, your fingers accidentally grazing your boyfriend’s muscular chest, already prickling with goosebumps, the two of you continued your walk.
“So,” you asked your swordsman, teasing him a little, “are we finally going to buy those incredibly urgent supplies?”
“Tch.”
He simply tugged you along in the direction he believed a bookstore might be.
Unfortunately, there seemed to be no end to the walking. After ending up in several dead ends, the two of you eventually passed a shop displaying a beautiful, flowing summer dress in its window.
You stopped to admire it.
Zoro noticed immediately.
"Let's go in."
"Hm?"
"Try it on."
You looked at him in surprise.
Shopping ranked somewhere below getting stabbed on his list of favorite activities, and you didn’t want to subject him to your endless outfit changes, indecisiveness, and the general chaos of the entire process.
"No, no, it’s fine," you said quickly. "I already own too many clothes."
He stared at you for a second before placing both hands on your shoulders and steering you toward the entrance.
“Yeah, right,” he snorted. “I don’t wanna hear any of that. Get in there.”
Then he opened the door.
"Inside."
You couldn't help laughing.
An hour later, the brave swordsman had survived approximately seventeen dresses, six skirts, several pairs of trousers and more indecision than any battlefield had ever thrown at him.
Each time you emerged from the changing room, he’d glance up and offer one of approximately three responses.
“It’s good.”
Or:
“Hn.”
Occasionally:
“Looks nice.”
Eventually, you folded your arms in annoyance.
"You're not even looking."
"I am."
"No, you're saying the same thing every time."
"...Because you look good in all of them."
The words slipped out before he could stop them and his ears immediately turned bright red.
"...Forget I said that."
Instead, you walked over, stood on your toes, and kissed him.
"I won't."
You even managed to force him into trying on a few shirts and pairs of pants himself.
Some items you selected without even making him try them, knowing that fitting clothes ranked somewhere between torture and undergoing surgery without anesthesia in Zoro’s personal hierarchy of suffering.
By the time you disappeared into the changing room to put your own clothes back on, your swordsman had already purchased everything you’d spent the longest looking at.
Including the dress from the window.
You emerged carrying your things only to discover several bags already waiting.
Your jaw dropped.
Zoro was always broke.
“…You bought them?”
“Yeah.”
“But that’s too much.”
You were already reaching for your money when he fixed you with a firm look.
“Put that away.”
“Zoro—”
“I wanted to.”
The certainty in his voice left little room for argument.
Confused, you immediately began calculating the astronomical interest rates Nami would inevitably charge him. Thankfully, you had long ago escaped her financial traps by learning to negotiate and extort with the same terrifying efficiency as the navigator herself.
“I’ve got my own stash,” he said.
He absolutely did not.
Did he?
Where would someone so utterly uninterested in money and worldly possessions, outside of fighting, sake and, perhaps—you dared to think—you, even find the motivation to save?
As though you weren’t confused enough already, he took your hand and gently pressed a kiss to your fingers.
“Come on. Let’s keep going.”
Then he turned away.
“What a lovely couple,” the shopkeeper sighed.
Zoro heard it.
His shoulders immediately stiffened, and he grumbled something embarrassed under his breath.
You exited a moment after him, having quickly purchased a few things for your boyfriend that you’d intended to buy from the moment you’d entered the store.
“And something for my strong boyfriend.”
Before he could react, you kissed him on the lips.
For what was certainly not the first time today, and definitely not the last, he blushed.
His brain immediately stopped functioning.
Then he started protesting.
This was your day.
He was supposed to be spoiling you.
Not the other way around.
As the two of you continued down the street, Zoro silently resolved that before the day was over, everything would go exactly as he’d planned.
And he would make it perfect.
After several more hours of wandering, getting lost, accidentally finding the bookstore, discovering a tea shop you immediately fell in love with, and rescuing an alarming number of animals, the two of you eventually came across a beautiful overlook.
The day was scorching.
Despite the fans, sunglasses, and constant searches for shade, the heat and sun had become unbearable.
Zoro spotted the ice cream stand first.
By now, he knew you were one of the biggest sweet tooths he’d ever met, especially when it came to this particular summer treat. Without a word, he disappeared into the line and returned carrying a cone stacked with five different scoops, each one a flavor he knew you loved.
Knowing you’d insist that he get something too, despite not being much of a dessert person himself, he’d picked a few citrusy and milder flavors for his own cone.
A few moments later, realizing your green-haired idiot had vanished somewhere, panic immediately set in. You turned in a slow circle, already wondering whether you’d have to spend the rest of the afternoon tracking him down.
Only on your final turn did you find him standing directly in front of you, holding out a cone filled with cold, sweet salvation.
You sighed dramatically with relief.
“My hero! My angel! Exactly what I needed to save me and bring me back from the dead in this heat.”
Once again, your words completely flustered him.
“Tch. You really do say whatever comes into your head.”
Placing a hand on the small of your back, he guided you toward a nearby bench beneath a tree. It sat in the perfect patch of shade at the overlook, giving you a wonderful view of the charming town spread out below.
Out of the corner of his eye, he watched you happily work through your mountain of ice cream.
Your hand had found his without either of you thinking about it. And your fingers absentmindedly traced invisible patterns across his palm, gliding over the hardened calluses that years of swordsmanship had left behind.
“You know your ice cream’s gonna melt if you spend all your time staring at me” you teased.
His ears immediately turned the color of paprika.
Without warning, he scooped a bit of ice cream from his own cone and dabbed it onto the tip of your nose.
“Hey!”
Before you could retaliate, he leaned closer.
One arm settled against the back of the bench behind you.
Then, in a move so uncharacteristically smooth it nearly short-circuited your brain, he closed the remaining distance and kissed the ice cream off your nose.
You froze.
Completely.
“Wh-what got into you all of a sudden?” you stammered, still trying to recover.
All he did was smile to himself, looking entirely too pleased with the effect he’d had on you, before returning to his cone.
Naturally, a few seconds later you dragged him into a battle to determine which of you could embarrass the other more.
Later, while browsing a stall filled with fragrant oils, perfumes, colognes, and scented waters, Zoro seized the opportunity and quietly slipped away to a few nearby shops to prepare another part of his surprise.
After sampling countless scents, you eventually chose a few for yourself, along with some for Nami and Robin after remembering they’d mentioned needing to restock.
Then you found one that reminded you of your boyfriend.
It smelled like earth after rain, fresh cedar, a hint of hinoki, and something clean, steady, and grounding.
Like him.
You were still considering it when a young boy approached, blushing furiously and staring somewhere around your shoulder rather than directly at you.
“You’re very pretty, miss,” he mumbled, holding out a flower. “This is for you.”
Your smile softened immediately.
“That’s so sweet of you. Thank you very much.”
Touched by the gesture, you accepted the flower and pressed a kiss to his cheek.
The poor child nearly launched himself back into the shop where he was apparently helping his parents.
The grumpy swordsman appeared at your side just in time to witness the entire thing.
The brat’s interfering with my day with Y/N.
He could have sworn he caught the little pest sneaking a victorious grin at him from behind the counter.
“Tch.”
The familiar click of his tongue echoed from somewhere between his teeth and sheer annoyance.
Sliding an arm around your waist, he pulled you closer and pressed a kiss to your forehead.
“Come on. Stop dawdling.”
As you followed him down the street, Zoro shot one last smug glance toward the shop.
Score settled.
After what felt like hours of aimless wandering through unfamiliar streets, gradually leaving the heart of the bustling town behind, accompanied by easy conversation, playful nudges, and long stretches of comfortable silence, the two of you finally came to a stop.
You had noticed the shopping bags in Zoro’s hands long ago, and some of them certainly hadn’t been there that morning. Every now and then your eyes drifted toward them, curiosity threatening to escape your lips, only for you to bite it back.
If he wanted you to know, he’d tell you. Until then, pretending not to notice somehow felt kinder.
The sounds of the festival slowly faded behind you, replaced by little more than birdsong and the whisper of wind through the trees. You had asked him twice where exactly he was taking you.
The first time he’d answered with an absent-minded grunt.
The second, he’d glanced over his shoulder, the faintest smile touching his lips.
“Almost there.”
Then the path opened before you.
Your steps faltered.
Rows upon rows of ancient wisteria trees stretched across the hillside, their sweeping branches draped in cascading curtains of violet blossoms. The afternoon breeze stirred them gently, sending petals drifting lazily through the air.
Beneath them, an endless meadow of wildflowers swayed in the golden light. The entire landscape looked almost unreal.
“…Zoro.”
He wasn’t looking at the view.
He was watching you.
Good.
That expression alone made every awkward question he’d asked the locals worth it.
For a long moment neither of you moved. The breeze carried the scent of blossoms between you.
Finally, Zoro shifted the bags onto one shoulder.
“…Stay here for a minute.”
Before you could ask what he meant, he disappeared beneath the hanging wisteria branches.
You watched him kneel in the grass and begin unpacking the bags you’d been pretending not to notice all afternoon.
Carefully, he spread a blanket across the ground.
Fresh pastries, fruit, meats, and little appetizers filled the blanket, along with your favorite drinks. For you, he’d chosen a carefully selected sweet fruit wine. For himself, he opened a bottle of sake.
Only after arranging everything exactly the way he wanted did he look back at you.
“…Come here.”
He held out a hand and carefully helped you lower yourself onto the blanket before sitting down beside you.
“…You put all of this together yourself?” you asked.
Your eyes shone, and the smile on your face was the kind that appeared when you weren’t even aware you were smiling, when happiness had simply become too great to hide and spilled onto your features all on its own.
A faint blush crept across his cheeks.
He cleared his throat.
“Well… I definitely didn’t make the food myself.”
You moved even closer, wrapping your arms around him.
Compared to him, your frame felt so small and soft, fitting against him as though you had always belonged there.
His favorite feeling.
“What was all this for?” you asked quietly.
“’Cause I wanted to.”
Zoro looked into your eyes. Those eyes he could never quite stop looking at.
The backs of his fingers brushed your cheek before tracing gently across your lips.
“I just wanted to.”
The answer hit harder than any grand declaration ever could.
Overcome by affection and happiness, you tightened your embrace and sent both of you tumbling backward into the grass.
“…Hn!”
Nestling your face against his neck, you squeezed him tighter.
Then you lifted your head and began peppering him with kisses.
“You’re wonderful!”
A kiss landed on one warm cheek.
Then the other.
His eyebrows pulled together in surprise and mock annoyance as you continued.
Beneath his eyes.
Across his eyelids.
His forehead.
His chin.
Finally, you paused just above his lips.
“I love you so much.”
The words were little more than a whisper. Then you kissed him, pouring every feeling you couldn’t properly express into the gesture.
His arms immediately found your waist. Sometimes they slid down your arms instead, his rough hands stroking your skin in slow, absent-minded motions.
For a moment he simply held you there.
Then he shifted and rolled the two of you over until you were the one pinned gently beneath him.
Before claiming your lips again, he leaned down and pressed a kiss against your neck.
He knew exactly how ticklish you were.
The resulting laugh burst from your throat immediately as you squirmed and shoved at his shoulders.
“Zoro!”
Satisfied with his small act of revenge, he finally relented.
His lips hovered just above yours.
“I love you more.”
And then he kissed you again.
When you finally pulled apart, both of you a little breathless, Zoro muttered something about eating before all the food and drinks got warm.
Reluctantly, you sat back up.
You attempted to smooth out your dress and fix your hair.
Without comment, Zoro reached over and removed a stray flower and several blades of grass from it.
The day already felt perfect.
More perfect than you’d thought possible.
Later, after you’d both eaten your fill and settled into the peaceful atmosphere, Zoro sat quietly drinking sake and watching you while you carefully wove a flower crown.
Once it was finished, you proudly placed atop his head.
He looked less than thrilled.
Or at least he would never admit otherwise.
Yet he didn’t take it off.
After finishing his sake, he decided to make one for you as well.
His fingers, so skilled with swords, proved considerably less talented when it came to flower crowns. Despite choosing the prettiest blossoms he could find and concentrating harder than he’d care to admit, the thing stubbornly refused to look the way he’d imagined.
You, meanwhile, were completely charmed.
Smiling.
Flattered.
Hopelessly in love with this green-haired grump and his heart of gold.
When he finally handed over the somewhat lopsided creation, you accepted it as though it were the finest crown ever made.
Then you proudly placed it atop your own head.
Leaning back, you rested against his chest.
His arms naturally settled around your waist as the two of you watched the sunset paint the world in shades of gold, violet, and rose.
“This was the most beautiful day,” you said softly.
His fingers threaded through your hair.
Then drifted to your shoulder and neck, tracing slow, absent-minded circles against your skin.
For a moment he said nothing.
Then, without taking his eyes off the horizon, he replied:
“…The day’s not over yet.”
Neither of you noticed how much time had passed until the sunlight filtering through the wisteria began to deepen into richer shades of gold.
The shadows stretched lazily across the meadow, and petals still drifted on every passing breeze, though fewer now than before.
Eventually, Zoro rose to his feet.
“We should head back.”
You looked up at him, reluctant to leave.
“…Already?”
His heart tightened a little. He didn’t want to rush you.
But there was still one last part of his plan left.
“The festival will be starting soon.”
You smiled and took the hand he offered without a second thought.
The walk back felt different.
Quieter.
Not because there was nothing left to say, but because neither of you felt any need to fill the silence anymore.
Walking side by side, neither of you removed your flower crowns. At one point, you considered reminding your swordsman that he was still wearing his. He had probably forgotten about it entirely.
Apparently not.
“I wear what I wear,” he said when you brought it up. “If somebody’s got a problem with it, they can tell me.”
In some unfamiliar village at the edge of the world, one of dozens he’d passed through in his life, anyone foolish enough to mock him for wearing a flower crown would become intimately acquainted with the sharp edge of his sword.
The bags in Zoro’s hand swayed with each step. You walked beside him, brushing your fingertips through the wildflowers one last time before the meadow disappeared behind the trees.
Without a word, your boyfriend slipped his free hand into yours and laced your fingers together.
As the town slowly came back into view, so did its sounds.
At first there was only distant laughter.
Then music.
Then voices spilling through narrow streets.
By the time you passed beneath the first lantern hanging overhead, daylight had almost completely surrendered.
One by one, paper lanterns flickered to life, bathing the streets in warm shades of amber and crimson. They hung from rooftops, stretched between market stalls, swayed above bridges, until the entire town seemed wrapped in a quiet constellation of golden light.
The evening had only just begun.
As you walked through the glowing streets, staring in wonder at everything around you, much to the delight of your gruff swordsman, who seemed to gain strength simply from watching you happy, something suddenly caught your eye.
“Zoro!”
His gaze followed yours.
A photo booth stood near the edge of the square.
Nothing particularly impressive, but strips of paper lanterns hung from its roof, fluttering in the evening breeze.
A grin spread across your face.
“We have to.”
You squeezed the muscle of his arm where your hand rested.
One eyebrow rose.
“…Do what?”
“Take pictures.”
“No.”
“Yes.”
“No.”
“Please?”
Those irresistible eyes should’ve been classified as a weapon.
“Tch.”
Rolling his eyes, he grabbed your wrist and headed straight toward the booth, dragging both you and himself along with equal resignation.
He would agree to almost anything for your smile.
Not that he’d ever admit it.
Not even to you.
Who knew what kind of evil you’d accomplish with that knowledge, you little menace.
Inside, the booth was absurdly small.
Your shoulders touched immediately.
A small light began blinking.
Above the camera, a sign lit up.
Three…
You weren’t ready.
Though you were having far too much fun to care.
He definitely wasn’t ready.
Two…
You burst out laughing because he was standing so stiffly he looked like a man awaiting execution.
Flower crown and all.
He shot you a mildly panicked glance.
One…
The flash went off just as you turned toward him, still laughing.
Another countdown began.
This time, you deliberately bumped your shoulder against his.
He looked down at you.
And a small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
Just a little one.
The kind reserved only for you. Watching you like this. So happy. So playful.
Then came the final picture.
Without warning, you pressed yourself against his side and kissed him.
He practically bristled like a startled cat.
His eyes widened and cheeks turned bright red, matching several of the flowers woven into his crown.
Then, just as quickly, he relaxed and kissed you back.
The machine whirred.
A moment later, two identical photo strips slid from the slot below.
Before you could tuck them away, Zoro quietly took one from your hand.
“…Keep the other.”
You blinked.
“For yourself.”
It wasn’t quite a request, nor was it an order.
Just something he wanted.
Something unexpectedly earnest.
“You’ll want it someday.”
The words escaped before he could stop them.
Almost immediately, he looked away, as though annoyed with himself for saying so much.
But you noticed.
Zoro didn’t speak like that unless he meant every word.
What a ridiculous man.
What a wonderful man.
You smiled to yourself and tucked yourself against his side once more as the two of you continued walking.
There wasn’t a force in the world strong enough to quiet the frantic beating of your heart.
You continued wandering for a little while longer as the crowds gradually began to thin.
Eventually, the two of you came upon a square where people were writing wishes on floating lanterns before releasing them into the night sky. Thousands of tiny lights, each marked with different handwriting, carried wishes, promises, and hopes upward into the heavens, drifting along the river or simply hovering in the warm summer air.
“Want to write one?” your boyfriend asked, his gaze lingering on you.
You looked around at the lanterns floating overhead.
“Do you?”
Zoro exhaled softly.
“…Suppose so.”
You wrote a simple birthday wish. Maybe something playful at first, though it turned sentimental by the end.
Truthfully, you weren’t sure what else there was left to wish for. It was hard to think of anything when you were already so happy, surrounded by everything you could have ever dreamed of.
You had freedom, wonderful friends you could call family.
And most of all… you had him.
A wonderful boyfriend who filled your life with a sense of trust and peace so profound that you hadn’t known such loyalty could exist anywhere in the world.
Zoro, meanwhile, took much longer.
He stared at the blank paper for what felt like an eternity, which naturally gave you plenty of opportunity to tease him.
“Didn’t know you had so much to wish for.”
He snorted.
Zoro wasn’t the type to make wishes. He worked for what he wanted. Always had.
Still, your beloved marimo eventually wrote something down, carefully and deliberately, before folding the paper shut before you could catch a glimpse.
“You don’t get to read it.”
You pouted and immediately tried to steal it.
He effortlessly held it just out of reach.
Then, before you could protest further, he leaned down and kissed you softly.
The argument died a swift and tragic death.
Together, you released your lanterns into the night.
You watched them drift higher and higher until they joined the countless others above.
Before long, Zoro’s gaze left the lanterns and settled on you instead, bathed in golden light and for a moment the entire festival seemed to disappear around you. The music faded into the distance, the crowd blurred into nothing, and all he could see was the woman standing beside him.
Beautiful beyond reason.
The most precious thing in his world.
And for a moment, watching you smile at the sky, he thought that perhaps his wish had already come true.
A few minutes later, he suddenly took your hand and gently led you away from the music, away from the laughter and crowd, until the sounds of the festival became little more than a pleasant murmur behind you.
Far enough that it felt like the two of you were alone again.
Only then did he stop beneath the warm glow of a lone lantern hanging from a wooden post.
For a second, neither of you spoke.
Then Zoro reached into the bag he’d been carrying all day.
Your curiosity immediately sharpened.
One by one, he began pulling things out.
A bouquet of flowers.
A few thoughtful keepsakes he'd quietly collected throughout the day.
A new weapon you’d been complaining about for weeks that you needed to replace. Your breath caught when you noticed the engraving: your initials beside his.
"...Zoro..."
And finally…
A delicate silver bracelet.
Tiny stones shimmered in the lantern light, but what caught your attention was the charm dangling from it.
It was almost identical to the three earrings he never took off.
You stared, speechless.
Then carefully turned it over.
Engraved on the back were two simple words:
Found you.
“…You found me?” you asked with a laugh, your head spinning from surprise and excitement.
He immediately looked away, scratching the back of his neck.
"...Yeah."
You fastened it around your wrist at once and held it up to admire it, completely radiant.
The sight nearly did him in.
Zoro’s heart swelled so much he thought it might climb straight into his throat and launch itself into the night sky alongside the lanterns.
Only after you’d had a moment to process everything did he finally look at you again.
And with all the awkward sincerity of a man who had spent the entire day saying I love you without ever using those words, he finally said the one sentence you’d been waiting for without expecting it in the slightest.
“Happy birthday.”
Your breath caught. Completely stunned.
Your eyes widened as you stared at him, lips parting to speak, yet no sound came.
Zoro shifted awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck again.
Then, almost reluctantly, explained:
“You mentioned it once. To Nami. That you were born on the first day of summer.”
You stared at him.
Remembering a birthday wasn’t unusual when people talked about it often.
When it was announced weeks ahead of time.
When everyone reminded each other.
But carrying that tiny piece of information for months, maybe almost a year or more? Through storms, battles, islands, and endless voyages across the Grand Line?
Among all the noise and chaos of your lives, one offhand thing you’d said long ago, something no one else had even thought twice about, had remained lodged in his mind all this time.
And somehow he still expected you to treat this as though it were completely ordinary.
As though this was a small thing.
You looked at him differently than ever before.
Your heart felt impossibly full, overflowing with love, tenderness, and complete astonishment.
You knew Zoro.
Or at least you had believed you did.
Yet somehow you'd overlooked just how deeply kind he was. How there was still so much tenderness hidden inside him that even after all this time, you occasionally forgot just how good he truly was.
At least when it came to you.
“I love you so much, you idiot.”
Your eyes filled with tears as you buried your face against his broad chest.
The swordsman laughed quietly as relief washed through him at last.
Everything had gone exactly the way he’d hoped.
The weight he'd been carrying for weeks finally slipped from his shoulders.
“This was the most beautiful day of my life,” you admitted. “Just spending it with you would’ve been enough. You didn’t have to go through all this trouble.”
True to form, Zoro clicked his tongue.
“Tch. Spending the day with you? That was for me.”
You lifted your head to look at him.
His ears looked impossibly red against his green hair.
“The gifts,” he continued, pulling you closer until there wasn’t even an inch between you, “that’s something for you.”
His forehead rested lightly against yours.
“A way of saying that no matter how dumb or oblivious I look sometimes…”
His voice softened.
“…I’m here.”
His hand settled over yours.
“I listen.”
The silver bracelet glimmered between your joined hands.
“And I love you.”
A pause.
The faintest blush spread across his cheeks.
“More than anything.”
The eyes that always carried such strength and certainty softened as they looked into yours.
Your lips found each other in a gentle kiss.
A slow one.
The kind made from longing, affection, gratitude, happiness, and all the things words failed to carry.
Around you, lanterns continued to rise. Thousands of them.
Carrying hopes, promises, dreams and wishes.
Including his.
Somewhere above the town, drifting higher beneath the stars, floated a lantern containing the wish he’d guarded all evening.
Not a wish to become the world’s strongest swordsman.
Not a wish to defeat Mihawk.
Nothing like that.
Among the stars floated a lantern carrying a single wish, written carefully in his uneven handwriting:
May every birthday after this one be mine to spend with you.
