eirist

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

THIRTY-SIX DESIRES

One-shot #: 43

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: I randomly stumbled on a YouTube clip from Heart of Gold special episode where Zoro was fighting the archer woman Naomi and he started reciting a sort of mantra before launching his San‑juu‑roku Pound Hou attack. He sounds amazing! His voice (Kazukya Nakai’s to be exact) is just too good. And of course I thought what if…

I might’ve tweaked it a bit to fit since I can’t decide which translation to use. But in case you want to see and hear what I’m talking about just search it in YouTube. He also used the same chant and attack against Braham in Skypiea. So I suggest checking both.

On a side note, I do think Zoro would do calligraphy. Mental fortitude, discipline, control… you name it. I mean looked at the signature he gave Bartolomeo. It might be simple but we can consider the strokes right? It’s like the way he slashes.

Summary: “Read that for me again Zoro.”

They had inadvertently stumbled upon an old, dilapidated structure... discreetly hidden in the midst of thick-trunked trees, in a somewhat sunken area of the forest, right in the middle of nowhere.

It was not what Nami was searching for when they started this hike. Heck, she wasn’t really expecting anything at all. The island where they’re at looked uninhabited from the get go—with strong signs of it being abandoned, most likely some decades ago.

She just wanted to explore the place—more to study the area’s layout instead of actually scouring it for any kind of treasure (because it looks like no matter how hard she searches or where... there is none), so she can create a map of it later.

Besides, the crew were immediately hyped up with the idea of adventure that she didn’t need to coerce anyone into accompanying her. Like anything could stop their rubbery captain from venturing into the wild and unknown when he was already jumping up and down the Sunny’s railing, chanting bento boxes loudly and calling out their names so they can finally head out.

After ten minutes of trekking along the dense forest trail Robin had spotted underneath all the foliage growing everywhere... they all got separated.

Much to Nami’s consternation.

But she wasn’t all that worried. Well... just slightly, just a bit... as there weren’t any threatening creatures or presence lurking anywhere in the somehow darkened recesses of the forest.

Because if there is, she was downright sure Luffy and Zoro would be eagerly heading to its direction instead of dawdling about.

Plus, she would definitely hear Usopp shouting for dear life wherever he is in this forest, if danger were to appear. And Sanji-kun will definitely be yelling her name and Robin’s while kicking down and igniting the trees in surrounding area.

To her surprise and relief, everything was just calm... silent even. Except for the random cries of birds overheard.

So she just shrugged her shoulders, adjusted her backpack and continued to march forward, following the heavy footsteps of the green-haired man before her.

Right before the crew got separated earlier, she was just in the process of reaching out to grab Zoro by his wrist to stop him from wandering away lest HE disappeared on them.

It only took a minute, of the two of them shifting their attention off the others and engaging in their usual argument about how he is hopelessly directionless before they realized they were... alone.

And not a single one of their crewmates were in sight.

Nami groaned at that, her fingers tightening around Zoro’s wrist instinctively as her brain processed the thought that maybe something strange was at work and was the cause of her nakamas disappearance. Zoro, however, just shrugged and started walking towards a random direction, pulling Nami with him and almost making her stumble.

She hit him on the shoulder even as she relaxed. If Zoro was going to nonchalantly continue strolling along this forest then by all means it was safe to assume that they are nowhere near any danger.

For now. Nami thought as she released her grip on him before instructing the swordsman to walk in front of her so she could keep an eye on his stupid ass (literally, figuratively). He scowled in answer even as he relented and obeyed, that it had her rolling her eyes behind his back.

They were walking for a good half an hour, plodding up a few inclines that made Nami breathless every time and made Zoro smirk condescendingly as she caught her breath, looking all smug like she deserves it.

She retaliated with a smack on the back of his head as she walked past by him, muttering a reminder to him not to get stupidly lost.  

Another half an hour found them trekking downward along a rather treacherous slope. One wrong move would send either one of them tumbling down the rough terrain and onto the path traversing below.

This time Zoro neither smirk nor snorted as they carefully and slowly made their way down, his hand just a grasp away from her, silently guiding and ever-alert in case her foot slip.

And when it did, Nami yelped. And Zoro’s hand automatically grabbed hers... tightly. His monstrous strength and unbelievable dexterity made it easy for him to stop her momentum and to pull her back almost to the point of actually lifting her up to steady her.

A bit heady and with heart beating twice as fast, Nami just nodded dumbly when he asked her if she was alright.

She managed to mutter a soft ‘thanks’ before they resume their descent—more slowly and cautiously this time—with Zoro watching her like hawk, his hand never letting go of hers.

The moment they almost reached the end of the slope, he wordlessly wrapped his arm around her waist, tugging her to him and lifting her off her feet as he jumped the last remaining feet. Nami let out a squeak when they landed on what looked like a long- forgotten foot path.

And that’s when they saw it.

Nami was surprised to see a still crumbling edifice in the area. She was pretty sure there was no structure remaining anywhere as the island’s forest seemed to have taken over any remnants of dwellings that once existed in that place.

She disentangled herself from his arm, trying to straighten her crumpled clothes as Zoro pondered out loud.

“A house...?” His lone eye studied the wooden structure a few feet away from them. Then he scanned the whole area, observing and gauging for any immediate threat or danger of sorts.

“Hmm?” Nami stared at him curiously before her gaze riveted back to what was before her.

She took in the familiarity of what she was seeing. It was indeed mostly made of wood; with tiled roof curving upwards, deep eaves and elevated floors. 

“It looks like some of the houses in Wano,” she murmured. Of course, she had seen a lot like this back in the samurais’ country, thus the familiarity.

Zoro tilted his head slightly like he was thinking. “Hnnn... seems like whatever this is, it is somehow related to Wano.”

Nami nodded in agreement. It is possible that a group of people sailed from Wano Kuni, ended up on this island, settled and established their own community. That’s how most villages started after all, how cities and countries flourished.

“Think it’s safe to take a look inside?” The navigator inquired, looking at the green-haired man for affirmation. She will not be the first one to walk in and explore an unknown area, nuh-uh. Especially a run-down one that looked like it’ll crumble into pieces anytime soon.

Zoro grunted. “The only thing we have to worry about is if the rickety wooden floors can handle our weight.”

Nami growled immediately, taking offense and turned to to face him. “Excuse me?!” She said indignantly, placing both of her hands on her hips. “I’m pretty sure I’m not the heavy one here!”

Zoro just smirked at her and Nami knows she’s not gonna like whatever was going to come out of that stupid mouth of his.

“Broke a sweat when I lifted you earlier.”

“Why you!!!”

He easily evaded her punch, his hand completely enclosing her whole fist as he caught it effortlessly, as if reminding her of the massive difference between them physically-wise and reflex-wise.

The swordsman was looking all smug again that Nami was actually contemplating on hitting his face with her head. But she restrained herself, because knowing how thick his stupid skull is, that would absolutely hurt her.

Plus she wasn’t that crazy.

Zoro then easily twisted her in his grip, one arm wrapping around her waist again. She cursed out loud when he unceremoniously lifted her off the ground, tucking her snugly on his waist, like he was lifting a sack of potatoes.

“Zoro!”

“Come on let’s go and check.”

“I hate you,” she griped, yet she didn’t even try to wiggle out of his hold as he started walking.

“Yeah I know,” he barely glanced at her as he approached what Nami decided was a house, until proven otherwise. As they got nearer, the orange-haired woman’s eyes widened slightly as she took it all in up close.

The structure loomed above them and it looked downright foreboding. And it seemed like the whole vicinity were cloaked in shadows, the daylight unable to penetrate the thick leaves of the trees fully, unlike back in the foot path where patches of the sunlight randomly dappled ground.

Even the air around them was different. Colder. Everything appears to be ominous.

She squirmed a bit under Zoro’s arm. And he looked down at her.

“Scared?”

Her eyes met his. And Nami saw a glimmer of laughter (at her expense) in that grey orb.

Frowning, she instead huffed. “Whatever fucking happens do not drop me!”

“I’m dreading to think of what will happen if I do,” the tall man drawled.

“I’m serious,” she said with a glare at him. “I’ll be vengeful.”

Zoro just let out a short laugh even as his hold around her tightened. “I know.”

“Zoro!”

“I know alright?” He repeated, his tone dropping a tad lower as glanced down at her again, this time with a more serious look in his eye. Yet there was a hint of that not-easy-to-catch softness in both his tone and look.

And Nami knew he’s not going to let go of her no matter what happens.

Good. Or there’ll be hell to pay.

The dried leaves crunched under Zoro’s boots as he took a step closer, with Nami still tucked under his arm, brows furrowing in scrutiny.

“It’s a house then,” he finally muttered after a few seconds of silence. He angled his head to the right to peer somewhere past it that Nami couldn’t see. “And it goes all the way to the back towards a small temple or a shrine?” He muttered the last words, almost to himself as if he was musing out loud.

Nami tipped her head up to stare at him in wonder. “You’re... familiar with this kind structure and layout?”

Zoro just shrugged. “Looks like the one back in my village.”

“Your... village...” Nami chewed on her lower lip unconsciously. Zoro was never the one to share anything about his past or where he came from. So Nami can only... speculate. There are times where, he’d willingly give up some bits and pieces. And yet, she still ends up trying to connect the dots... figure it all out like a whole damned life puzzle.

She never pushed, even if she was insanely curious. It was one of her boundaries when it comes to him. They may squabble all the time and she may press his buttons relentlessly and even brazenly twist his arm to give in to her demands but she never, ever forced him to tell her anything he wasn’t willing to share. 

There were times though that she can’t help it and she asks outright. And Zoro gives her answers... most of the times.

And now... she sighed. Now just is not the right time for any probing questions about him as they both regarded the time-worn house in front of them.

She tapped lightly at his arm, a wordless indication to finally release her from his grip and set her on her feet. He did likewise, never taking his eye off rickety-looking edifice.

If this is a really house then...

A cheeky grin suddenly appeared on Nami’s lips.

No hurt trying to investigate inside right? Who knows what valuables they might... salvage.

“Come on Zoro,”

“Huh?”

She nodded her head towards the house. “Let’s go.”

Zoro glowered at her. “Now you’re brave?”

She huffed in response. “I’m pretty sure you already used your haki to check if there’s anything inside we should be wary of.”

“...”

“And that you found nothing,” she continued, eyeing the three katanas on his hip. “Or else your hands will be gripping them and instead of me. Now let’s go and see.”

He cursed under his breath. “Of course you think you’ll snag something valuable inside.”

She winked. “Never hurts to look. Even if,” she gave the place a glance over. “Even if the vibes of this place are all sinister.” She rubbed her hands on her bare arms as if to chase the goose bumps away.

Zoro snorted at the irony of her cowardice and greediness.

“Besides I have you with me,” she immediately pulled at his arm, her determination renewed. “No use prolonging it. So chop-chop while we still got some good light!”

“Fine! Then lead the way,” he agreed grudgingly. Not that he’d actually let her go in there alone.

“Uh no,” she suddenly sidled closer to him, grabbing his arm. “We go in together.”

Mumbling another expletive under his breath, he let himself be drag into another one of Nami treasure-hunting mischiefs.

------------------------

“This is a failure,” Nami dramatically announced as she shoved back a book of what appears to be a record of business transactions done by the previous owner of the house with the villagers. “A failure I tell you!”

She and Zoro had meticulously made their way inside what they now confirmed was indeed a house. The wooden floor creaked underneath their steps but held steady as they worked their way towards the whole expanse, carefully checking every nook and cranny, every room for anything valuable enough to haul back to the ship.

Much to Nami’s dismay... there was none. Not one speck of gold, not one glint of forgotten jewellery. Only dust, cobwebs, the strong smell of decay and rotting wood, remains in what looks like a house that belonged to someone with a high rank... like the head of the village.

They continued towards the rear part of the house where a wooden walkway—dotted with splintered wood and random holes—connected the main part towards what looks like a temple or shrine, as Zoro observed earlier.

Both were surprise to find out that it was a library; still filled with numerous books, old records and accounts, along with hundreds of scrolls—all of which were stacked neatly in their respective shelves as if they’re awaiting the return of their owner.  

There was an old writing desk at the far right near a window with broken shutters.

Nami looked around, amazed. “Robin will be thrilled with this,” she whispered in awe. She entered the room, letting her eyes savor in the wonderful sight before her.

She quietly, almost reverently, approached one of the shelves. She ran a finger gingerly across the spines. She paused and pulled out a book to examine it.

A soft ‘oh’ escaped her when she realized that it was all about the New World weather dated two decades ago. She excitedly opened it and coughed when a cloud of dust escaped the pages.

“Nami? You okay?”

Zoro had moved to the opposite side of the room, inspecting the dust-covered items on top of what looked like a wooden writing desk.

“I’m fine,” she replied as she waved off his concern. “Just some dust.”

He nodded as they went back to their own explorations. His hand traced a beautifully engraved wooden box, his fingers disturbing the long sleeping dust covering it.

Zoro lifted the lid and his lips quirked slightly. It’s been quite long since he last saw a calligraphy set. He recalled the one his sensei was using. It was simpler than this box. But the purpose of the brushes and ink inside are still the same.

Nami was watching him from the corner of her eye and caught the small smile that suddenly graced his lips. She wondered what was the reason was for it.

He was looking inside an exquisite-looking box. Was it jewels? Gold coins? If so, why wasn’t he calling her over?

Nami’s appraising eye was already considering the value of that item. It looked like it will fetch a good sum when sold.

“Let’s bring that back with us,” she suggested, still curious why it evoked a rare smile from him.

“Huh?” Zoro lifted his head to meet her gaze.

“I said let’s bring that back with us,” the mapmaker repeated, fixing her attention back to the books in front of her.

“Why? It’s just a writing set,”

She continued scanning the titles before her as she answered. “All the more reason to bring it back. We can show it to Robin.” She cheekily withdrew from the shelves to approach him, stopping only when they were almost toe to toe.

Nami grinned up at the swordsman. “We are not leaving empty-handed, Zoro.” She declared as she dropped the book she was still holding on the table just beside the ornate box.

Zoro fought the urge to roll his eye at her and instead, folded his arms across his chest as he looked down at her.

“Fine.”

“Good boy,” Nami reached out to pinch his cheek as he scowled at her.

She ignored him as she went back to the shelf to continue inspecting it. She pulled out one book and then another, and then another.

“My sight must be deceiving me,” Zoro quirked an eyebrow at her as he watched her almost giddily emptying the shelf as if it was a treasure chest. “These are not the sparkly, shiny things that you adore so much. Why are you taking them?”

She stared at him pointedly and pouted. “Knowledge is still valuable Zoro.”

He scoffed, exasperatedly running a hand across his hair. He knows she just doesn’t want to leave empty-handed. It’s like an unhealthy compulsion.

Zoro looked around and saw some old scrolls and random manuals on the shelf near him. He pulled one out just to see what it contains and was astounded to see that it was still intact.

It was astonishing that these survived being left out here at the mercy of time and nature. He rubbed his thumb against the paper. It didn’t feel like an ordinary one. He recalled Nami mentioning a special paper that could last for a years without getting damaged. It was what she was using for her maps.

This was probably the same. He surmised as he unrolled it, careful not to trigger the accumulated dust on it so much. The paper felt rough against his fingers.

Inside was a handwritten passage. The writing was neat, precise and exquisite. Like it was done more because of the art of calligraphy rather than the necessity to write down the words.

“Sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch, thought…” he read out loud. Now… why did that sound familiar?

His face scrunched a little in concentration as he continued.

“Those six sense organs have senses…”

Nami instantly stopped perusing the books in front of her at the sound of his voice. She spun around to gaze at him, seemingly mesmerized.

“Of good, bad, neutral...”

It was deep and penetrating… like it was coming from some unfathomable part of him.

Like he was about to launch one of his infamous attacks with everything he got to obliterate an enemy.

He trailed off... lifting his head up as he felt Nami’s eyes on him. His eye met hers, the book in her hand lay open on her palms and momentarily forgotten.

“What?” Zoro raised an eyebrow when he noticed how... intently she was looking at him.

“That...” she began, her thumb rubbed lightly against the paper as if that simple movement will bring her out of captivation.

“That sounded good.”

“Huh?”

“That,” Nami cleared her throat and nodded to the scroll he was holding. “It sounded good. Whatever you are reading.”

“It’s just what’s written here.”

“Can you read it again?”

Zoro just shrugged and proceeded to do as she requested.

“Sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch, thought…

Those six sense organs have senses…”

And Nami just watched him. Watched the way his lips move, watched the calm expression on his face.

His voice low and rich. Unwavering.

“Of good, bad, neutral...”

It was sure. Steady. Like it was grounded to the very earth.

“Then, each of those 18 senses are classified into the purified and defiled states…”

Beautiful in its roughness.

Exactly just like him.

And Nami... absolutely liked it. Very much so.

“One life, thirty-six desires…”

His eye met hers again. There was an intensity in it that was pulling at her. She didn’t even notice she had taken a step towards him.

“Nami?”

The navigator blinked as if she was dragged away from a trance that started from the very first moment his voice reached her ears.

Zoro rolled the scroll back, dropping it haphazardly at the desk as he studied her intently, his gaze now questioning and a bit worried.

Why was she suddenly acting... weird?

Was it the passage written on the scroll he was holding? Was it doing something weird to her?

He frowned. For the umpteenth time, he was thinking that maybe scouring this old abandoned dwelling wasn’t a good idea after all.

He was immediately in front of her, his hand tilting her chin up so he can check if she was alright.

“Nami?” He called her name again. “Are you okay?”

She reached out to grasp his hand lightly still looking at him. “Yes,” she answered breathlessly.

“Are you sure?” He turned her face left and right, looking for something out of the ordinary. “Did you inhale a lot of the dust here?”

“Huh what?” Nami asked incredulously, the randomness of question threw her off. Why would he ask that?

“You just zoned out.”

“Zoro...”

He let out an irritated ‘tsk’.

“Enough of this shit,” he rumbled, his tone leaving no room for argument. “Let’s go back to the Sunny and have Chopper look at you.”

“Eh?” That snapped Nami back to reality, regaining her usual feisty self.

“Hey wait! Wait Zoro!” She objected as he started pulling her out of the library.

“The books! That box! I want them!”

“We’ll get it back later!” Zoro grumbled as she tried to escape his hold.

“But...”

The stare he fixed on her had Nami instantly relenting.

“Fine!” She agreed sulkily, lips pursed into a pout. “But we’ll go back and get them later with the others!” She demanded in a voice loud enough to actually shake the structure’s foundation.

“We’ll get that whole damn library to the Sunny if that’s what you want.” Zoro said through gritted teeth as they stepped out to head back to their ship.

Damn this troublesome woman.

------------------------

“Hey.”

“Hey,” Zoro greeted back as he stepped away from the ladder leading to the Sunny’s bath. “You good?” He asked, running his hand in his still wet hair as he approached the orange-haired woman.

Nami was sitting on the chair in front of her mapping desk. Its surface was a total chaos of old books and some scrolls from the rundown library they were inspecting earlier that day.

They did go back, along with the rest of the crew, to haul everything inside it that Nami and Robin wants. Chopper gave Nami the a-ok to explore the area again after personally checking it. The reindeer doctor claimed that what was in it was just plain, normal dust and no contaminants of some kind were mixed in it.

Still it doesn’t explain why Nami spaced out earlier.

The navigator made a face at him. “Chopper already cleared me. I didn’t inhale any weird dust from that place like you were thinking.”

Zoro just shrugged as he sat down on the floor beside her. “Sue me. Better safe than sorry.”

She rolled her eyes. “I’m fine.”

“You just acted weird while we were there.”

Nami hummed. “Mmm... oh that.”

“Yeah that.” Zoro emphasized with huff. “Thought you were gonna keel over or something.”

She reached out to ruffle his green hair, smiling when he scowled at her antics.

“Got you worried?”

Zoro just stared at her this time. Like a calm before the storm.

“It wasn’t really anything short of an emergency.”

“Then why—”

“It’s just that,” she cut him off. “I got entranced when you were reading that passage. It just sounded so good.” She leaned her arm against the chair’s back, pillowing her head on the crook of it as she looked at him. “You voice sounded so good.”

Silence took over between them. Before Zoro spat out,

“WHAT?!”

Nami laughed. “Oh, are you blushing pirate hunter?”

Zoro immediately stood up to glare at her. “NO!” He replied hotly even as the tinge of red was evident on his cheeks.

“Oh fuck,” Nami chortled as she watched him get all flustered at her compliment. “Shit you are cute!”

“Shut up!”

“Nope,” she teasingly shook her head as she stood up to meet his gaze head on.

“Nami, I swear—”

She cut him off again. This time with the press of her lips on his, arms looping around his neck so he can’t pull away or utter a retort.

And he relaxed easily underneath her touch. Just like he always do.

His hands gripped her arms lightly... slowly sliding up, thumbs rubbing against soft skin, before his arms moved to encircle her completely as he deepened their kiss.

“Read that for me again Zoro,” Nami whispered when they pulled away, breath the lightest touch against his lips. His arms were still wrapped around her, obviously with no intention of letting her go yet.

Zoro let out a ‘tsk’. But an almost easy smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth as she tried to wiggle away to grab the scroll from her desk.

“Sight,” he intoned. And Nami stopped moving as he pressed his lips just below her eye brow.

“Hearing,” he murmured it against the shell of her ear, pressing another kiss there.

“Smell.”

A kiss on the tip of her nose.

“Touch.”

On her chest right near where her heart beats.

“Thought.”

An almost chaste kiss on her forehead.

“Those six sense organs have senses…”

Both of his hands rose slowly and cupped her face so he could look directly in her eyes. 

“Of good, bad, neutral...”

She continued to stare at him in the same entranced way she did back at the other library. Captivated by his voice.

“Then, each of those 18 senses are classified into the purified and defiled states…”

Nami felt her breath catch as he lowered his head, lips touching hers in the lightest of kisses.

“One life, thirty-six desires…”

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

SAME, YET DIFFERENT

One-shot #: 42

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: Of course I have something for my favorite navigator’s birthday. Just late. But better than nothing right?Also, for the past three years I have an AU story drafted for Nami’s birthday that I really can’t get into. Maybe it’s still not the right time for it. So it’s been rotting in my drafts folder and this one is what you all get.

I adore the fact that Johnny and Yosaku—who both are Zoro’s friends—decided to settle in Cocoyashi, which is Nami’s village. You know… that possibility of them going back to that place because they both have a reason to return together… I’ll leave it at that, feel free to imagine it.

Also, when I googled Cocoyashi village, I kept getting Cocoyasi. I’m not gonna delve deeper into this as they can be used interchangeably (I was under the impression that it was Cocoyashi all this time so I’m just gonna stick to it).

So enjoy! And let me say this now, I digress from too much emotional stuff. I just wanted it light and breezy.

Summary: Nojiko all but swallowed the laugh that wanted to burst out from her. She couldn’t believe she easily caught on what was currently happening with her sister. Nami just handed it to her in a silver platter.

Nami immediately crossed the wooden dock the moment they dropped the Sunny’s anchors. Her strides were quick; her heels and barely contained excitement eliciting small, creaking sounds with every step she took.

The island wind welcomed her warmly… very much like a long awaited embrace; enfolding her into its sea-scented arms and caressing her long orange hair—vibrant under the rays of the sun—making it flutter in her wake as she continued to move forward.

The moment her feet touched solid and familiar ground, she heard the shout.

“Nami!!!”

The navigator’s face lit up, an ecstatic smile appearing across her lips, reaching her eyes and she lifted her arms.

“Nojiko!!!”

She threw herself around her anticipating sister; still beautiful—even more so now with her light blue hair longer—and still smelling faintly of their beloved mikans, with just a hint of the sea and sun-soaked memories.

Nami squeezed her as hard as she could and Nojiko did the same.

“You’re here!” She declared jovially.

“I am!” Nami squealed before her sister can even finish her sentence, not bothering to hide her exhilaration at all.

They hugged again, giggling like kids, absolutely delighted to see each other like Nami hadn’t visited a year and half ago when they were sailing around East Blue again.

“Oiiii!!! Nami’s sister! Oiiii!!!”

“Hey Nojiko! Hey!!!”

“Onee-samaaaa!!! Onee-samaaaa!!!””

Nojiko sweat dropped at the chorus of voices calling out to her fervently. She peered behind Nami to look at the ship. The straw hat wearing captain of her sister was leaning excitedly on the ship’s railing along with the long-nosed sniper and their blond cook. All three were waving their hands in their air with so much enthusiasm that Nojiko can’t help but chuckle.  

She lifted a hand to wave back at them as Nami sighed exasperatedly.

Nojiko tilted her head to look at her before sniggering. “You brought chaos with you?” She playfully asked, crossing her arms over her chest.

“Chaos goes wherever I go,” Nami deadpanned as she stared back at her now restless and overly excited crewmates. “Well… half of it actually.”

“Half?”

“The other half is still exploring Logue Town.”

“Oh?”

Nami grinned. “Well, our archaeologist is totally into history stuff so she asked us to head out first… something about wanting to research more about the islands in East Blue. They planned for some quick stops on some other areas on their way here. So they’ll probably be here tomorrow at the earliest.”

Nojiko nodded even as she did a double take when she saw Luffy wrap a rubbery arm around Usopp, before jumping down the wooden dock with him in tow. The sniper’s screech filled the air momentarily.

She turned her attention back to Nami. “So nothing’s changed huh?”

Nami shrugged her shoulders. “Yup, pretty much still the same.”

They looked on as the other Straw Hats started to disembark from the Sunny. Nojiko realized that it was just indeed the other half—the ones she already knew from way back when Nami first joined them. Plus the cute reindeer doctor called Chopper, whom she had met along the rest of the crewmembers a year before.

“Get ready for the upcoming pandemonium,” Nami muttered under her breath.

Nojiko laughed. “Never doubted that. Well… just right in time then I guess.”

Nami cast a sideway glance at her, completely ignoring her hyperactive captain, who was still dragging Usopp as he bounded towards them with Zoro, Sanji and Chopper trailing behind them.

“Right in time for what?”

Nojiko’s lips curved upward. “Your birthday celebration of course!”

Nami lifted an eyebrow. “But my birthday’s not until tomorrow…”

“Doesn’t matter,” Nojiko chortled. “We can start celebrating now and continue on ‘til tomorrow.” She looped her arm around Nami’s, pulling her towards the road heading to the village’s direction.

“Come on, better show yourself and them to Genzo-san first or you’ll never hear the end of it.” She cheekily winked at Nami.

------------------------

“Nami-aneki! Happy birthday!!!”

Nami quickly turned at the familiar voices that simultaneously almost sang that greeting. Her eyes widened and so did her grin when she recognized her well-wishers.

“Johnny? Yosaku? It’s been so long you guys!” She squeezed their offered hands and she realized that they were a far cry from the bounty hunters she had met years ago. They were bigger now, bulkier—her hands looking all small and delicate in their grip.

It was ironic that they look more dangerous now when they have a different profession than during their bounty hunter days.

She heard from Nojiko that after their unsuccessful attempt of going back to the bounty hunting business, they came back here to become fishermen, which was actually quite surprising as Nami never thought they’d settle here out of all places. Maybe it’s the Cocoyashi village’s charm?

They didn’t run into them when the Straw Hats were here last time. Nojiko had said that they were on the other side of the island as it was the fishing hot spot last year. The hauls are too big to pass. Besides, that is how they make their living now.

Nami smiled at the unexpected turn of events.

If they are living here now then…

Her eyes quickly darted towards the ever-stoic green-haired man, who was quietly drinking on the side-lines.

Zoro was watching the on-going party in front of him—the supposedly small event for her pre-birthday had turned into a full blown celebration right in the middle of the street… no thanks to the villagers who were more than willing to potluck and Luffy—who had cheerful invited every single person in the area that he met while running around exploring.  

The master swordsman had a small smirk on his face—apparently enjoying the merrymaking even if he was taking no part on it.

Then his eye caught hers. And Nami fought the urge to roll her own. Far as Zoro may be, he was still able to sense her staring at him, even for just a split second. Sometimes his sharpness really grates on her nerves.

She really can’t enjoy observing him secretly, can she? He always, ALWAYS, catches her looking.

The mapmaker decided to just veer her attention back to Johnny and Yosaku who was telling her something about Nojiko’s recent business venture. And the fish haul that her sister had apparently demanded to them to bring for Nami’s birthday celebration.

“Guys, thanks! Those were really great catches.” Nami said, her tone amazed. “All that seafood dishes Sanji-kun cooked are absolutely delicious. And I know for a fact that that was not just because he is the one cooking it. Even he says you’ve brought in really excellent ingredients.”

The two laughed sheepishly, blushing and looking all embarrassed at her compliment. Really, they are so much better at catching fishes rather than catching wanted criminals.

“Ah! Zoro-aniki!” They both greeted Zoro who had languidly approached them and Nami marvelled at how Johnny and Yosaku can do their greetings in almost the same tone, the same manner, even the same enthusiasm.

Zoro nodded at his former bounty hunting comrades, grin appearing so wide on his face that Nami cannot help herself from raising an eyebrow. She rarely sees him this… cheerful. Most of the times it was just a chuckle, a normal grin, a smirk or a sneer.

He settled right next to where she was sitting, right down on the the ground to be more exact and Nami watched with amusement as Johnny and Yosaku bustled with too excitement. They also hadn’t seen Zoro for years and their happiness was almost palpable.

It seems like it was their birthday rather than hers.

“Eh, looks like you're both enjoying it here Johnny, Yosaku,” Zoro observed, taking a sip of his drink.

“Yes! Of course!” answered Johnny.

“Definitely!” replied Yosaku.

Even Zoro couldn’t hold back a chuckle at their joy. It was, of course, nice to see their good old friends and allies thriving and happy.

“Well, I think you boys better do some catching up,” Nami suggested as she brought her own mug to her lips to drink.

“Oh we will!” Johnny was grinning from ear to ear. “We will take Zoro-aniki out the sea tomorrow to fish.”

Yosuka was bobbing his head up and down in agreement. “Yeah, you did mention that you liked fishing don’t you aniki?” He looked at Zoro who nodded.

“Tomorrow huh?” Nami murmured. Tomorrow was officially her birthday. So he’ll be gone out to the sea to fish the whole day?

“We’ll head out early, so we can return early.” Johnny explained, smiling at Nami as if he knew that that was what he needed to do. “Zoro-aniki said the official celebration of your birthday is tomorrow. So we can’t miss that and the feast!”

“Oh?” Nami mouthed as she stole a glance at the man beside her who just shrugged.

“Anyway we’ll see you later, Zoro-aniki, Nami-aneki” Yosaku said. “We still have to deliver some of our catch to Gosa village.”

“Eh?” Nami blinked. “You guys are still working? But it’s already evening?”

“Ah we just need to deliver it,” Johnny said sheepishly, scratching his head. “We are actually about to earlier but we heard you are all here.”

“And we wanted to see you all...” Yosaku added.

“And you both lost track of time,” Nami stated the obvious for them.

She was answered with awkward laughter.

“Well, see you two later then,” Zoro said, smirking. “Do what you need to do first then we drink.” He raised the tankard he was holding slightly before gulping it down with gusto.

“Will do!” The two shouted with so much eagerness, before turning around to run back to their ship so they can finish their task and get back to the celebration asap.

Nami and Zoro just watched them disappear in a cloud of dust and excited whispers. Somewhere around they can both hear Usopp’s voice narrating another one of his infamous tales of bravery to a most likely unsuspecting audience plus one gullible reindeer.

“Honestly didn’t expect this to become a full blown party,” Zoro muttered after few minutes of silently sitting, drinking and watching the villagers going to and fro. It was like after the fall of Arlong Park. Everyone was out on the streets eating, drinking, and laughing.

Only this time… it’s to celebrate her.

“Me neither.” Nami said with sighed. “And to be exact, it’s not even my birthday yet.”

“Right.”

“Actually didn’t expect those two will stay here,” Nami wondered out loud. “You?”

Zoro just shook his head. “For what it’s worth, I think they’ve settled here... settled good.”

“Hmmm… guess you’ll have a reason to come with me whenever I return here,” the grin that she threw at him was cheeky enough that Zoro instantly knew this meant trouble for him.  

“Make me,” he can’t help but challenged.

“Oh you know I will,” Nami retorted haughtily. “And I can!”

They held each other’s stare intently, neither one backing down. This was almost like a game to them and not really animosity as some would think.

Then a sudden bothering thought hit Nami.

“Zoro where is Luffy?”

Her eyebrows furrowed and now she was on high alert. It had been a rather tepid celebration compared to what she is used to. It should be chaotic right now and loud. Surprisingly there wasn’t any tell-tale signs and sounds of Luffy going full boisterous or even Sanji’s persistent shouts of ‘hands off shitty gomu’ or ‘not cooked yet you idiot’.

Nami noticed a slight movement on Zoro’s lips. Like he was trying really hard not to burst out laughing.

“Getting interrogated by your father figure,” he answered simply after managing to compose himself with little effort.

Nami blinked as she processed what he just said. “Luffy is with Genzo-san?”

This time Zoro smirked. “Yeah,”

Now that is trouble alright. Nami could swear her face blanched slightly at that, knowing how unrelenting the man who is a like parent to her and Nojiko.

It was almost like a recipe for a disaster.

Nami then fixed Zoro with a stare.

“Shouldn’t you be there as well?”

A snort was his answer. “No thank you. He can handle it just fine.”

That made Nami burst into laughter, kind of expecting that response from him. “Oh what’s this? You’re trying to get away or something?”

She stood up as Zoro regarded her with a rather sharp eye. But she just smiled at him cheekily.

“You have to eventually face him too you know…. rescue Luffy from his clutches… things like that.”

Nami then patted his shoulder, as if trying to appease him. “Good luck.”

------------------------

“Whoa, whoa easy with the liquor.” Nojiko teased when she spotted Nami, who was refilling her mug as sneakily as she can from one of the many taps they had prepared for her birthday tomorrow. “Those are still for tomorrow!”

Nami stuck her tongue out at her. Childishly. And Nojiko laugh, knowing that she’ll never be able to stop her stubborn sister.

“You’ve got to save some for tomorrow!”

“Relax Nojiko,” Nami said soothingly, before heartily gulping down a mouthful of her pilfered liquor. “This is barely grazing the surface. Plus these are the good stuff. Why aren’t we having them right now?”

“Uh-huh,” Nojiko now had her hands on her hips. “Do you plan to get drunk before it’s officially your birthday?”

 “I don’t get drunk easily, you know that.” Nami chortled as she took another tankard and filled it.

“Whoa,” Nojiko held up both of her hands in the air in mock surrender. “I said easy with it. Not have your fill with it!”

“I am going easy,” Nami threw her a frown. “Besides this is not for me.”

“Oh?”

“Yes. Oh.” The orange-haired girl echoed. She tilted her head. “Heard from Johnny and Yosaku that you had a new business venture.” She lifted the mugs in her hands. “So I’m evaluating it.”

She got a snort from that. “Evaluating my ass. Of course I’m expanding. It’s good for business. And you actually liked it,” She pointed an accusing finger at Nami then at the mugs. “So much that I know this is the fourth time you went to refill your tankard with it.”

“You’re keeping tabs?” Nami said with an exaggerated gasp. Then she snickered. “Of course I liked it. It’s made from Bellemere-san’s mikans! How can I not like it?”

“Still, whether you liked it so much or not, isn’t this going a bit overboard.” Nojiko eyed the mugs in her hand warily.

“I’m not the only one here who loves drinking,” Nami replied in an obviously exaggerated nonchalant way that had Nojiko raising one perfectly shaped eyebrow.

“Okay…”

Nojiko’s brows furrowed when she followed Nami as she headed back to where the green-haired swordsman was sitting on the ground, still quietly watching the event in front of him and still drinking.

She watched her sister approached him and with an authoritative tone Nami said,

“Zoro, drink this.”

Zoro stared up at her, face scrunching into a frown, looking like he was about to tell her off. Nojiko had observed up close how their dynamics are from the very first time the man set foot on their village and also last year when their crew dropped by for a quick visit.

Up until now…

She absolutely finds it interesting.

Nojiko wasn’t surprised when Zoro just let out an annoyed grunt, and accepted the tankard that Nami had handed him.

She kept one eyebrow cocked as her sister settled on the bench beside the swordsman. Zoro took a taste of the new drink and then another.

He licked his lips, “Oi this is actually good.”

Nami beamed at her sister. “Well looks like you’ve got a hit.” She wiggled her eyebrows meaningfully at Nojiko.

The light-blue haired woman just continued scrutinizing them as they slipped into an almost easy conversation about how the drink was of Nojiko’s doing, a move to broaden the horizons of her mikan business.

A sort of understanding settled inside Nojiko as she continued to watch them talk, before shifting into a light banter of who can outdrink who.

And she can’t help but wonder if... that was slight flirting? In their own language?

Nojiko inwardly shook her head. It is too early to draw conclusions. But…

She suddenly clapped her hands to get their attention. Both Zoro and Nami instantly turned towards her, their somehow inside quips (that only the two of them can probably comprehend) forgotten.    

“Sorry to burst your…” she paused for effect. “Private bubble.” She grinned when a frown appeared on Nami’s face at her obvious teasing. “But I did promise the ladies of town something.” She stated, casually brushing imaginary dust off her pants.

Nami stared at her, all curious. “Promise?”

Nojiko smiled, smugly if Nami was to be accurate. The kind of smile and smug that had alarm bells ringing inside her head.

“Yup,” she took a step towards Zoro and bent down.

“Come on. Come with me.”

Both Zoro and Nami stared up at her. Then at each other. Then back to Nojiko again.

“Why?” Nami was the first to ask.

“Huh why?” Zoro was a second late with his own question.

Nojiko straightened up with a deep exhale. Like the question exasperated her. Like she didn’t want to explain.

She wasn’t Nami sister if she wasn’t just as bold and cheeky as the orange-haired woman is when needed.

Nojiko wrapped a hand on Zoro’s arm and gave him a slight tug so he would stand up.

And Zoro surprisingly obeyed, earning an astonished look from Nami, her eyes widening slightly.

“Uhm excuse me but where are you taking him?” Nami fought the urge to stand up as well and block her sister’s way. She had a gut feeling that it wouldn’t bode well for her if she did that.

There was that smug grin again. “The ladies of our village wanted to meet the ‘handsome, green-haired man with arms they want to get head-locked with.” Nojiko explained, her smile and tone both equally mischievous.

“Head-locked WHAT?!” Nami repeated—no—almost spat out.

Nojiko whistled. “Wow! That’s what you retained from what I said?”

“Oi,” Zoro growled, not amused. He obviously got what that meant and he is obviously not happy being paraded in front of strangers with unscrupulous motives.

And neither was Nami as she started to glower at her sister.

Nojiko ignored her. “Come on, come on,” she urged, pulling him with her, leaving Nami—who now stood up—looking bewildered.

“Nojiko!”

She stopped halfway to gaze at Nami, her eyes dancing with mirth looking all impish.

“You don’t mind do you?”

And Nami bristled at that. And stuttered. “O-o-of course not! Do what you want!” She added a bit too hotly.

“Then let’s go Zoro-san,” Nojiko sing-songed as she pulled the still perplexed swordsman away.

“You’re not going to ask me if I mind?” He grumbled even as he let Nami’s sister pull him  from the now obviously seething navigator.

“You’re meeting pretty girls. I’m sure you don’t.” She responded brazenly, looking back to watch Nami plopped back down her seat, pouting and sullenly taking a hearty gulp of her drink.

Of course she doesn’t mind. Why should she?

Nojiko was now grinning from ear to ear.

Why indeed?

------------------------

Of course she doesn’t mind. Why should she?

The words rang persistently inside Nami’s brain. Insistent, irritating.

She bit at the rim of her mug in frustration. Whatever her sister was playing at… she knows it’s to hit two birds with one stone. The smugness in her smile says it all.

Her eyes shifted towards where Nojiko had pulled Zoro and to her chagrin; there is a group of men and women there, all eyes looking adoringly at the second strongest man in their crew.

Some eyes are probably doing more than look, and was bordering towards not safer thoughts.

Nami was all too familiar with that.

The annoying thing about all this is that Zoro actually let her sister drag him to where she wanted to bring him without any fight, with only just one question and no other retorts. Nami knows if he wanted, he can easily get out of that shenanigan the way he usually does…

… by being infuriatingly stubborn.

That was what actually irks her more.

She watched with frustration as Nojiko seemed to introduce him to the villagers. And Nami can’t help the scowl that appeared on her face. She continued to glare at the group. At stupid Zoro. At her mischievous older sister…

Her eyes locked with Nojiko’s and Nami felt a cold sweat trickle down her back. She straightened up instantly, schooling her face into a disinterested expression and obliterating the scowl she had on earlier.

There was a dawning realization on Nojiko’s face as she stared back at her.

------------------------

Nojiko all but swallowed the laugh that wanted to burst out from her. She couldn’t believe she easily caught on what was currently happening with her sister. Nami just handed it to her in a silver platter.

“Alright,” she spoke up amidst the chatter and questions for the tall man beside her. “That’s it ladies and gents. I promised. I delivered.” She tugged at Zoro’s arm again. “Now I have to give him back... before my sister decides to kill me.”

A collective groan sounded out from the group.

Zoro stared at her liked she’d grown another head. And Nojiko only answered him with a smirk. She patted his arm in a placatory way.

Strongest swordsman or not, this man can still be easily perplexed and overwhelmed by things like... casual introductions to a group of admirers.

Nojiko betted on that. Because it seems like her sister have him already wrapped around her pretty, mischievous fingers.

And she wants to prove it.

“What was that all about?” Zoro finally composed himself enough to ask Nojiko what the fuck is happening.

“Don’t mind it. They just wanna meet you. They’re curious is all.”

“Huh?”

“And now I’m returning you.”

“…”

“Before Nami strangles me.”

Zoro stopped. With an exasperated sigh, he scratched his head.

“She’s gonna be pretty pissed. No,” he corrected. “She already is.”

And this time Nojiko finally bellowed the laugh she was holding.

“I know,” she said between chortles, wiping the tears of amusement at the corner of her eyes with one finger. “She can be so…” she glanced at Zoro up and down. “Possessive.”

The swordsman didn’t answer. And Nojiko waved her hand dismissively. “I already know what’s up. I don’t need to say anything, do I?”

“No.”

“Good.” Nojiko nodded; pleased they are on the same page. She knows how he can be… dense. She heard Nami complained about it a hundred times or more.

She was just glad that when it comes to her sister he is… less so and more attuned and definitely attentive in his own way.

She heard him click his tongue against the roof of his mouth. “Well,” he said lowly. “She just disappeared.”

Nojiko glanced at where Nami was sitting earlier. The bench was vacant with only the tankards remaining on it.

She sighed. “She’s probably headed there to cool off,” her eyes drifted up towards the cliff in one of the highest point on the island. “I did push her buttons extremely hard this time.”

Zoro just chuckled. “She’s a handful. And I’m being... polite.”

“I swear that’s what she also says about you.” Nojiko grinned, shaking her heard in amusement. “Well, nothing you can’t handle right? So I’ll leave it to you.

Zoro nodded.

“And oh, you do realize…” Nojiko doubled back. “Genzo-san will be ‘talking’ to you tomorrow,” Nojiko tilted her head to take in his faltering expression. “And it’s probably gonna be longer than the conversation he had with your captain.”

------------------------

“Figured you’d go here for some quiet.”

Nami turned at the sound of Zoro’s voice. She was sitting in front of Bell-mere’s grave. Just taking in the quiet, the island, the everything.

“Don’t you figured you’d go here for some quiet me!” Nami pouted, narrowing her eyes at the approaching man. “I know Nojiko told you where I am.”

He just shrugged his shoulders.

Nami didn’t bother hiding the look of awe on her face. “But I am really surprised that you actually made your way here without getting lost!”

“Oi,” a vein ticked on his forehead.

“Thought I’d need to arrange a search party for you,” Nami snickered. “And just right before my birthday.”

He scowled at her. “I am here aren’t I?”

She nodded. “True, true. Besides I actually prefer searching for treasures instead of directionless people…” she trailed off as she regarded him. “Person…” she amended.

“I can find my damn way alright woman! What do you take me for?!”

“You really don’t want me to answer that.”

Zoro huffed in exasperation as he sat down beside her, before handing her a bottle of what looked like an expensive and rather rare liquor.

Her brown eyes widened when she realized what it was.

“Damn this is from Liqueur Island!” She was almost breathless in awe because she knows you cannot just get it that easily.

Zoro’s grin was so arrogant that she was tempted to give him a good smack. But she refrained—her token of appreciation because she knows how hard it was to get your hands on this kind of beverage. And there is only one island in the New World that has it.

Her brows knitted together and she had to ask. “Please don’t tell me you got into a lot of crazy trouble and unnecessary scuffles just to get this.”

“Not that much if you know where and how to get it.” Was all Zoro said and she knew that was all she was getting out of him.

She’s just gonna wheedle out the information from Usopp later.

“Oh well, this is rather generous of you!” She rolled the bottle in her hands—examining it, appreciating it, watching the golden liquid sway inside in a sort of fluid dance. “Now I am feeling rather special.”

He smiled cockily. “Don’t get used to it.”

“Never.” Nami sniggered as set the bottle beside her. She knows it was his birthday present. Along with some folding money if she attempts to pat his whole person from head to toe.

“So how did Nojiko’s introductions go?” She can’t help but asked. She was not a bit peeved anymore. It had already eased out of her as she basked near the presence of her mother.

“Don’t really care much about it,” he drawled. “Pretty sure your sister just wanted to confirm something.”

“Hmm… that she did.” Nami inhaled deeply as the breeze ruffled her hair softly. “She knows.”

“She does.”

“Oh well… my sister’s that sharp. You can’t hide anything from her.”

“There is nothing to hide.”

A smile spread across Nami’s lips at that. “Of course,” she good-humoredly nudged his shoulder with hers.

“Ah Zoro, did you know you have to pay respects to Bell-mere-san don’t you?”

Zoro looked at her intently before shifting his grey eye to the stone marker in front of them.

“I already did. Who did you think placed that bottle of wine there?” He tipped his chin to indicate to the bottle ever-so-carefully placed there. Nami had been wondering alright where it came from.

And know she knows.

Her smile was Cheshire cat-like. “You’re trying to butter up Belle-mere-san?”

Zoro huffed. And instead of answering, he just settled down the grassy ground, lying flat on his back and tucking his hands behind his head as if he plans to sleep there.

Nami watched him for a moment, before riveting her eyes to the vast ocean before them, way beyond the cliff.

They were quiet for a moment. Nami just thinking and Zoro probably sleeping already.

“Nami,” he suddenly called her name and now he had all of Nami’s attention. He was looking at her fully, intently.

“Happy Birthday.”

Nami glanced at the southern area of sky, the full silver moon was at its highest point.

It was indeed midnight… and officially her birthday.

“Hmmm… thanks Zoro,” she grinned affectionately, flicking his forehead with her fingers lightly.

He made a grab for her before she can even withdraw it. And Nami just let him. There’s no use trying to avoid his grip when his reflexes are so much faster than hers.

He dragged it down towards his lips to plant a kiss on her palm.

“Ah Zoro, aren’t we getting bold? And right in front of Bell-mere-san’s grave too.” She joshed. “Did you already ask for her permission?”

He scowled, even as his hand was still grasping hers, not letting go. “We’ve already done worse.”

This time she smacked his head hard enough to rattle some sense into him.

He groaned and rubbed the abused part, finally letting go of her hand.

“You’re the worst!”

He just chuckled. “Already did witch,” he smirked lazily at her. The kind that made butterflies flutter inside her stomach. “Right when I offered that wine there.”

“And she said yes?”

“Hnn… she probably did.” Zoro mumbled as his arm snaked around her waist tugging her closer as he continued to lie down there. “Bottle didn’t break right?”

“What kind of logic is that?” She hissed at him, even as she let him wrapped her in a half embrace.

Her palm settled flat against his chest, just right where his heart beats, as she leaned closer to him. His thumb absent-mindedly traced circles on her back.

She paused, momentarily letting the steady rhythm of his heart steady her as well. Secure her.

Nami smiled at where her mother rested. If she was watching them right now, she knows she is happy.

She knows that Nami is right where she belongs.

“Well then… you should ready yourself,” Nami finally spoke after a few minutes of silence.

 “For what?” Zoro grunted.

“Bell-mere-san might not break that bottle. But Genzo-san will absolutely break you.” Nami cackled like the witch that Zoro ‘fondly’ calls her.

“He will surely be ‘talking’ to you tomorrow. It’s your turn to be interrogated.”

She felt Zoro stilled as it sink into him and she laughed.

“You sister also said that.”

And Nami laughed some more. Because she knows this is going to be one unforgettable birthday.

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

WRAPPED IN WARMTH

One-shot #: 41

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: ZoNa cuddles just warms my soul. That’s it. And I know it does the same to you people. So here we go. Something light and not too much fluffy.

And yep. This could be a precursor to some smexy times.

Summary: His lone grey one met hers and she gave him a soft, sleepy appreciative smile that made his insides flutter.

It was the cold that woke her up.

Nami felt her body twitched involuntarily, an unwanted reaction from the sudden drop in the temperature around her and the surprisingly cold air suddenly caressing her skin out of the blue.

It made her stir from sleep, brows furrowing as an irritated groan rumbled in her throat—a trivial complaint by her consciousness that wasn’t too happy at being pulled into wakefulness.

Still on the verge of sleep, she tried to feel for her blanket with her feet, her movement sluggish, trying her damndest to keep her action miniscule enough so as not to completely disrupt her slumber and get back to the comfortable state of stupor that still had her cradled in its embrace.

Another groan escaped her—a bit louder this time—when her feet touched nothing as she swiped it back and forth at the space further down. Often she would find her blanket crumpled or bunched up at her feet, kicked down below from all her twisting and turning while fast asleep.

She doesn’t want to get up and look for it. She doesn’t want to exert any effort at all to find it. She doesn’t want to move. All she wants to do is to go back to sleep!

But the weather outside seemed to be changing abruptly. The temperature dropping by the minute and the cold was starting to become intolerable for her. 

With eyes still closed, Nami continued to move her feet. Her toe stroke a hard surface instead of the soft, familiar fluffiness of her mattress. That made her stop and this time she whimpered in frustration.

What the…

A chilly breeze wafted inside from the open window and stroked the bare skin of her shoulder, its caress as cold as ice and she trembled again.

This time Nami willed her right hand to move, fighting against the heaviness of her still sleeping muscles. She patted her body down and then her sides to try to find her blanket or any article, anything at all, that she can use to cover herself up for warmth.

She didn’t bother stopping the whine coming out of her from sheer exasperation. Now she had no choice but to wake up, sit up and look for that damn piece of fabric so she can return to her peaceful, much-coveted rest.

“Tch.”

A disgruntled sound. An almost annoyed sound. Before a deep voice grumbled somewhere above her, near her.

“What were you thinking? Coming up here and sleeping with just this shawl…”

Nami stilled for a moment, her eyes still closed and still at war with herself is she will move or not.

Her consciousness was now one step ahead of her—awake and alert—running through a dozen of reasons why that voice was anywhere near her vicinity; at this hour, in her bedroom, while she’s asleep.

Coming up here…

She instantly yet sleepily recalled that she was not in her bedroom. She was up in the crow’s nest, as she climbed there after the midnight watch shift changed earlier.

So that was what her toe was touching earlier—the nest’s cold, metal floor!

Yet even as realization dawned into her, she stubbornly kept her eyes closed. And her hand still persistently tried to grope for any sort of material she can cover herself with.

She was still teetering between the line of sleepiness and wakefulness. But she knew that she was leaning more towards the verge of falling back asleep… that is if she finds something to drape over her poor shuddering self.

“Tch!” Nami heard that annoying sound again. Louder and deliberate this time. “Crazy woman,” she heard it muttered amidst the shuffling sound of someone moving.

Voice still scratchy from sleep, Nami managed to find enough strength to speak up a retort.

“I heard that Zoro!”

“Good,” was his only response.

“I’ll make you regret that later… when I’m…” a yawned pulled at her mouth. “…fully awake.”

She heard him scoffed.

That jerk! Oh she would start a row with him if he wants to! But she’s too sleepy for that. Her eyelids were heavy, refusing to lift up so she can glare daggers at green-haired man.

So she chose to ignore him, snuggling her cheek closer to the pillow under her head and settling back again. Draft wafted from the open windows of the crow’s nest again, this time a bit stronger and much colder.  

Nami wasn’t sure if the sound that came out of her is a groan or a whimper as she shivered again, her body automatically curling itself as it tried to warm itself up against the now icy cold onslaught.  

Then a sudden warmth seemed to swathe itself over her shoulders and her body, right down to her legs. She welcomed the comfort it brought with a gratified moan. It was like she was being enveloped, embraced…

Except it didn’t reach her feet.

Nami grimaced. With a discontented sound, she tried to bring up her feet to the warmth by curving her body more. But the movement made the cloth draped over her shoulder slid down exposing a bit of her skin to the cold again.

She groaned again and she could swear she heard Zoro snorted at her action.

Now her whole being was instantly wide awake. She abruptly turned to her side and glared at the swordsman, who was sitting almost beside her, arms folded over his chest, watching her.

Zoro cocked his head to the side as he stared back at her. “I told you to just stay down in your room.”

She stared at him for a moment. Then huffed. “And I told you, I want to spend time with you.”

“I’m on watch.”

“And so?”

“And I’m doing some training.”

“And I’m sleeping while you do it.” Nami was now scowling at him. Not that she was really gonna be bratty about the fact that he had chosen his weights over her. She’s not gonna hold it over his head. She knows how important training is for him of course.

But still…

Is it bad that she wants to spend some quiet time with him? They rarely experience it as of late with all the hullabaloos and going ons. So even if that means occasionally crowding his only space on the ship while he trains, even if he tries to dissuade her most of the times since it was distracting him (he admitted it one time) and even if he usually end up ignoring her for the sake of finishing whatever set of exercise or training he is working on… Nami is ok with it.

She just wants to be there. With him. In the same space.

And it’s not like she’s actively trying to disturb his concentration or anything. Most of the times she just reads, chart courses or like what she is doing right now, sleep when he is busy. Plus she only joins him when he’s on watch late at night since it was the quietest time on the Sunny. And it was also the only time she is not actively navigating their ship.  

Zoro scratched his head lightly as she continued to scowl at him looking every tad bit exasperated. “Told you it’s gonna get cold here.” He grunted and Nami glowered at him some more, lips forming in an irritated pout as she tried to fit herself in the shawl that he had draped over her earlier; even though it failed its supposed task, as it was shorter than the navigator with that long legs of hers (that Zoro was having a lot of indecent thoughts about even as he lifted his weights and trained earlier). Plus the fabric was too thin to serve as a makeshift blanket.

“Yeah, I know,” Nami said sullenly. “You said that earlier.”

“I did.”

Why was she so pig-headed? Yes, her sentiment was appreciated of course. Zoro absolutely liked it that she wants to spend some time with him. He also wanted that. But still… she didn’t need to put up with any uncomfortable position or place just so she could be in the same area as him. Like sleeping on the nest’s floor and exposing herself to this cold he already warned her about earlier that she just shrugged off while boasting about the shawl she brought with her (which was proven to be absolutely useless).

“I figured if that was the case, you’d help warm me up with that stupid, muscled body of yours.” Nami continued on in deadpan manner.

“I…” And Zoro short-circuited at that. He desperately tried to hide how that statement affected him. Very much. He felt his face flushed, the back of his neck heating up like she just ran her fingers up and down that area like she usually does when she’s teasing him.

“I… Oi, I’m not a… blanket,” It was the only thing he can come up with and he fought the urge to almost stutter.

Nami rolled her eyes at him as he tried to furtively salvage himself from getting ruined just by what she was saying. 

“You should be lying here beside me wrapping yourself around me to warm me up,” the cheeky orange-haired woman prattled on. “But instead, I’m stuck with this thin shawl and I’m too sleepy to argue with you. So I’m just going to back to sleep.”

With that, she turned to her other side, her smooth back now facing him. Zoro stared at her, still dumbfounded with what she said. Nami burrowed her head deeper to the pillow, pulling at her shawl, kicking it slightly with her feet and trying to find the perfect way to cover her whole body with it.

When she was finally satisfied, she exhaled contentedly.

Of course she wasn’t mad at her stupid swordsman. Not really…

Zoro knows how demanding she can be. And he also knows what kind of insanity he willingly gotten himself into. Still he dove straight into it, no second thoughts just pure unbreakable conviction.

As she was drifting off back to sleep, Nami hazily heard him stood up and began moving around the nest.

Probably to continue training… she drowsily thought. She refrained from thinking more as she was now desperately trying to grasp the edges of sleep to even be curious on what Zoro is doing.

Then warmth shrouded her whole body. Something cozy and pleasant enveloped her senses as it fell softly on top of her. She instantly hummed in approval, would even have moaned if she had enough strength to do so. Because the warmth was just delicious. Like she was being cocooned, embraced, wrapped.

The cold sensation pinpricking her skin was completely obliterated.

She felt covered, protected and… safe.

Nami gingerly lifted her hand, letting her fingers feel whatever it was that was now resting on top of her. Smooth and soft. Her body seemed to unfurl itself underneath it, legs extending back to a more normal and comfortable position as she didn’t need to fear her feet being exposed to the cold air again.

She mumbled incoherently in contentment. A jumble of letters that makes no sense at all except convey the pleasure she was feeling. 

“It’s going to be much colder later.” Zoro suddenly said, voice low, as he tucked her peeking hand back into the comfort of the fuzzy fleece blanket he had covered her. He had pulled it out from one of the cabinet’s Franky had installed under bench. He kept some of them hidden there, especially since Nami has developed a penchant for sleepovers in the nest lately (yet would complain endlessly if she slept directly on the floor without any mattress of sorts).

Nami turned her head slightly to look at him albeit through half lidded eyes. His lone grey one met hers and she gave him a soft, sleepy appreciative smile that made his insides flutter.

“Thanks swordsman,” she whispered, dragging her hand up again so she can tap his cheek with a finger.

“It will probably… rain,” she murmured as her eyes drifted close, head tilting drooping down a little as sleep pulled at her again.

“If you say so…” Zoro mumbled in agreement. If Nami says that it will, then it will. He cast a quick glance on the sky outside. It was still a few hours before dawn yet the sky was still so dark, there was no moon hovering on it, only thick dark gray clouds that seemed to look foreboding enough.

Nami took a deep breath and she started to relax. Tucked tightly and comfortably under the blanket, she was looking forward to the imminent rain knowing full well that she would get a damn good sleep cuddled in warmth while the world outside is cold.

And when Zoro slipped under the covers to join her to finally indulge her whims, his arms wrapping around her protectively, pulling her closer to him and his own warmth… Nami almost purred in pure delight and satisfaction.

He planted a kiss on her temple as she nuzzled her body closer to him with a contented hum, their fingers and feet tangling with each other’s.

Outside the first drop of rain fell down from the sky—slowly and softly—as if helping to lull the crow’s nest inhabitants into the most serene of sleeps while wrapped in each other’s warmth.

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

ARE WE?

One-shot #: 40

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

It’s been so long! I know! Seems like it was just yesterday when I was writing some Christmas prompts and now… it’s spring and Easter bunny prompts.

Well enough blabber. I miss my babies. And I also can’t believe this is the fortieth one-shot in this collection and finally hit a thousand kudos! I realized I wrote this many ZoNa stories already?! Yet I still don’t want to stop.

So like always. Enjoy! This is pretty much straight up and predictable. And uh, sappy?  

Summary: Like hell she’d let him think otherwise. Not when she realized she can definitely shoot the moon and hit it.

Chaotic.

It’s always been like this in every tavern their crew ever visited… especially if some of their members inadvertently end up in the same place at the same time after wandering around the island to wind down and grab some food or drink.

Nami was used to it… well, kind of. Right now, she can only thank her lucky stars that even if their crew’s major troublemakers (namely Luffy and Zoro) are under one roof with quite a large number of rowdy folks—who from their looks could also be pirates—trouble wasn’t anywhere near brewing.

Both Luffy and Zoro are preoccupied with eating and drinking. The former was stuffing his mouth voraciously; occasionally spewing out a muffled interjection or two, along with bits and pieces of food, as Usopp told them the harrowing story of their adventure in the forest that afternoon. The latter was silent. Listening and enjoying his liquor, smirking every now and then at some parts of Usopp’s tales he deemed entertaining.

Nami was laughing at something the sniper was griping about when it happened suddenly and so unexpectedly.

One minute everyone was shouting and laughing boisterously over the meal and drinks and Usopp’s story. The next, some woman was leaning down the space between her and the drinking swordsman.

“Hello.”

Their table immediately went silent at the intrusion. Even Luffy’s obnoxious chewing halted as he blinked blankly at the newcomer. Not even their blond cook managed to breathe out a word of compliment for the lady from surprise.

Nami raised an eyebrow as she stared at the back of the woman’s head. What in the world is happening?

“Hi!” The woman greeted again. Probably all smiles and flirty eyes based from the tone Nami was hearing. “I noticed you.” She said without missing a beat, not caring if she had the whole table’s attention.

The other Straw Hats exchanged glances and waited for the green-haired man to respond. Nami shifted slightly from her seat to try and see Zoro’s expression and to watch what he will do afterwards.

There was no surprise when Zoro barely spared a glance at the woman and just grunted, going back to his drinking as if no one was talking to him. 

Sanji was about to cut the conversation off knowing full well how brusque the moss-head can be when it comes to the ladies. He started to stand up. “Mademoi…” he began. 

​But the woman was unfazed and didn’t bother glancing at Sanji’s direction. Instead, her eyes just swept across the expanse of the table briefly, before settling at Nami.

A smirk spread across her lips then she turned her attention back to the still drinking swordsman who was now looking at her… amusedly. 

Much to Nami’s annoyance. 

“You know,” the woman’s voice dropped in a low whisper as she boldly rested a hand on Zoro’s arm. “We can do without the distractions. I know some place private.”

A squeak came from Usopp’s direction, followed by a muffled sound of suppressed snickering which turned into a sound of pain when Sanji elbowed him roughly on the ribs.

Luffy glanced back and forth at Zoro and the woman before meeting Nami’s eyes. Of course their idiot captain wouldn’t know what’s happening. He’d most likely open his mouth to say something dumb like…

“Oi Zoro, she probably needs help.” Luffy said in a matter-of-fact tone. “Go with her.”

There was it.

Nami took a deep breath and pressed a finger to her temple to stave off an incoming temper explosion. Usopp finally broke into laughter at that, unable to control himself as Sanji stared at their captain with wide eyes that clearly says:

What a fucking dumbass. Really! 

Zoro just chuckled at Luffy’s obvious incomprehension of what’s currently happening. His face then broke into a wide grin. 

“Think so captain?”

The rubber man nodded before chomping on the meat he was holding in his hand. “Uh-huh!”

That made Zoro laugh. Loud and belly deep. A throwing his head back kind of laughter that made Nami scowl.  

“Luffy!” Her tone was chastising as she called out her captain. Why was he ordering their swordsman to go with this woman who clearly had a devious intention than what he was gullibly thinking?! 

“Well then,” Zoro drawled, his voice dropping low enough that it was almost like a growl—a sound that never fails to stir something inside Nami whenever she hears it. She wasn’t happy that it was being directed to a stranger right now. She can feel her irritation skyrocketing by the second.  

The swordsman looked directly at the woman between them. Nami caught the slight quirk of his lips, a clear indication that he was really entertained with what’s happening.

“Not interested.” He said nonchalantly.

He then paused. And in an afterthought, he added.

“I’m already with someone.”

Another hush fell on their table… followed by jaws dropping, eyes widening, then the clattering of utensils falling on the floor.

“Eeeeh?!” The gasp came from both Usopp and Sanji. Nami was staring at the green-haired man with mouth agape. And Luffy…

Luffy was not bothered at all. His gaze was just flicking over each of them curiously, chewing on a big chunk of meat he stuffed in his mouth.

“What the HELL do you mean by that you third rate swordsman?!” The blond chef suddenly exploded, drowning Nami’s voice as she asked the very same question, in the very same tone, sans the insult part.

Zoro just shrugged at them and didn’t bother explaining. He chugged the last of his drink, stood up and placed some belis on the table (Nami seethed afterwards when she realized that it wasn’t enough to cover his share, that stupid man!) before exiting the tavern without another word and leaving them all bewildered, including the woman who had brazenly approached him.

------------------------

Nami was fuming.

She was fucking mad as hell. She was absolutely raging.

What did that idiot mean when he said ‘he is already with someone’?!

She stopped walking the moment she reached the port where the Thousand Sunny was docked. The urge to pull at her hair from frustration was so strong that she needed to take a deep breath and another and another to calm herself down.

What the actual fuck did he mean by that?

The wind suddenly picked up, blowing strands of her hair across her face. Nami angrily pushed them away as she stared at the now dark stretch of the ocean before her.

A feeling of dread was settling down at the pit of her stomach. Cold sweat trickled down her back as her head wrapped around the inevitable truth.

It felt like a splash of cold water on her face.

Zoro was in a relationship with someone.

The ocean breeze blew some more, bringing in the salty scent of the sea. Her hands fisted on her sides, fingernails digging into her palms.

Why in the world did she not know of that? She was supposed to know about that right?

Right?

As tight-lipped as he is, this is still something that he should’ve told her.

Because no matter where or how she looks at it…

She was unwittingly sleeping with someone who was already in a relationship.

------------------------

Nami made her way up the galley slowly, each step leaden, like she was actually carrying a heavy weight on her shoulders.

Well she was carrying something heavy alright, something called anger and guilt.

Was Zoro really that jerk enough to put her in this position? Was he asshole enough to do this to someone he was in a commitment with? Wasn’t he all pride and honor and loyalty? Yet here he was doing the very damn opposite of the traits he held in high regard.

Oh he is making her furious!

Right now she seriously wanted to wring his neck, choke him to death then surrender him to the marines to cash out his billion worth bounty. Then she’s gonna spend every last freaking beli from his name for herself!

But not even the thought of money was enough to make her feel better.

Nami knows he didn’t say it just because he wanted to throw the woman off earlier. That wasn’t his style. He was tactless and crude; yet he knows what he wants and what he doesn’t want, easily answering a yes or a no. Nothing more, nothing less.

Well apparently today he decides to say more, share more.

Dumbass.

Zoro doesn’t lie about these things. So Nami knew from the bottom of her money-loving heart that what he said earlier was the truth.

Only, she didn’t know about it.

So who could it possibly be? Who was lucky enough to actually make their uncompromising swordsman commit?

Is it someone from East Blue? A girl he left in his hometown with a promise of coming back to her once he fulfilled his dream of becoming the world’s greatest swordsman?

Or was it someone he met during their two-year separation? Perona, the ghost girl? After all, he spent more time with her than with her—correction, them.

Or maybe he met someone during those two years that he realized he actually wanted to be with.

Or it could also be Momo’s beautiful sister, Hiyori? She was the sole reason why the powerful sword Enma ended up in his possession. Plus they did spent a lot of time with each other while their crew was in Wano. They were together before the raid in Onigashima. Zoro was her protector all throughout their stay there. And the beautiful oiran didn’t even bother hiding how attracted she was to the green-haired man.

Nami was not actually privy to what happened between them there. But she heard bits and pieces from Brook but never actually asked Zoro upfront about it.

Like he would tell her.

The orange-haired woman huffed loudly when she realized in all her musings, she was already standing in front of the galley’s door.

She and Zoro need to talk.

Because if that was the case then their stupid trysts has to end. She refused to be the other woman! Damn it!

It wouldn’t really bother her if they were just in a friends with benefits situation or whatever they have been doing was called. It was fun after all. She enjoyed his company both in and out of the bed and Nami knows that Zoro did too.

Surely it wouldn’t continue happening if that wasn’t the case right? They are very much at odds with each other most of the times that she considers it a miracle that they were able to finally discover a neutral ground.

And honestly, it kind of brought them closer… definitely much closer than before as most of the times they’d share drinks and plans, goals and complaints, secrets and…

… bed.

The only thing Zoro did not share with her, was the fact that he actually was involve with someone else!

Jerk.

Nami rubbed her temples, wincing at her stupidity that brought her to where she was now.

So yeah, they have to talk about this. And if Zoro doesn’t want to… he can say goodbye to his beloved ambition because she will choke the life out of him.

She seethed as she gripped the handle of the galley’s door tightly, her knuckles turning white.

Whether she would admit it or not, it really gnaws at her that he is actually capable of being in a relationship with someone…

…someone who is not her!

She almost banged the door with her fist. She can feel her face heating up and her eyes welling up from a mixture of anger and frustration. But of course she refused to cry. She wouldn’t. She still has her pride after all.

To think she was alright with whatever they currently have right now, whatever he was willing to share with her. Because she understood… that is all he can give. All that he’ll allow himself to give.

And because of that they’ll never have a chance to actually be together.

She’s not going to try and shoot at the moon.

But now she knows that he just doesn’t want that with her.

Nami pushed the galley’s door open so hard it banged against the Sunny’s wall and almost came off its hinges. Then she stiffened.

The object of her current ire and woe was sitting inside the galley about to eat the remaining onigiris Sanji-kun grudgingly prepared earlier for dinner.

Zoro was staring at her with one eyebrow cocked curiously, silently asking what her problem is and why she was breaking down their ship’s door.

Nami met his stare head-on, hackles rising. Every ounce of anger, guilt, frustration and disappoint all rolling in together to form one tight ball of fury about to explode.

This forthcoming confrontation is going to get really ugly. And messy. And they would probably never speak to each other ever again after it.

She was contemplating on being the bigger person and walking away to calm herself first so they can have a decent conversation like two mature adults.

Or if she was just gonna bring everything crashing down on him.

Then Nami squared her shoulders, took a deep breath, pulling out an air of confidence from deep within her as she strode inside, purposely ignoring Zoro who was still looking at her curiously.

She didn’t bother glancing at his direction. She can feel him watching her like a hawk as she headed towards the ladder leading to the upper deck.

The tension was palpable; the silence between them was insufferable. But she knows Zoro was just… waiting…

And just like that Nami snapped.

“You didn’t tell me you are actually with someone?”

She swivelled back towards him, her long hair whipping around her as the words flew out of her mouth, stomping towards Zoro who merely tilted his head at her questioningly.

“Out of all the things that you’ve told me, that should’ve been the first one!” She slammed a hand on the table ignoring the jolt of pain that ran up her arm. “What is wrong with you?!”

She definitely got his attention at her outburst. And probably his scathing temper as well from the way a frown creased his forehead.

Zoro stared at her. Stared at her really hard, his gaze piercing, pinning her on the spot. Nami almost forgot how intimidating he can be when he serious.

He scrutinized her silently, studying her like she was an enemy he needed to obliterate in an instant.

But Nami stood her ground, meeting his stare head-on. Oh he is not in the place to be annoyed with her right now. It was she who is angry at him!

“Why didn’t you say anything?” Nami exploded when he remained silent. “You as—”

“Aren’t we… together?”

Huh?

Nami stuttered to a stop, her tirade immediately dying on her lips. She gawked at him, mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water.

Together?

THEM?

“E-eh?” Was the only sound that managed to came out of her as her brain short-circuited, her tongue failing her at the same time.

What… 

But…

“What… do you mean?” She asked in feeble tone, a complete three hundred sixty degree turn from the one she was using earlier. Still in shock, her eyes were rapidly blinking as she gazed at him.

There was a fucking ringing sound in her ears and it was as if everything around her was being sucked inside a vortex.

She collapsed down the chair across from him; the fight, the anger, the frustration, all leaving her body instantly.

Together?

They were together?

Was that what Zoro meant when he said he was with someone?

Someone was her?

Her? Not some other women…

It was as if the whole world was spinning and spinning and spinning.

Nami racked her brains for anything in the recent days, weeks, months that might have tipped him off to the fact that they were together.

Because she sure hell was not aware!

Was it because they were sleeping so much together? It had actually become a normal part of their day, of their lives.

But that was just it.

Sure they seemed to be doing a lot of things and errands together lately. He was her constant companion whenever she heads to the town to do supplies and stock shopping or even just plain shopping. Heck, they’d been on more excursions together than she and Robin had these last past weeks.

Last past months. Her brain corrected her.

He was also with her whenever she wants to do an ocular review of the island before drawing it on the map, grudgingly carrying her tools on an overflowing backpack as they hiked up the mountains to see the bird’s eye view of the land and explore the forest trails and coastlines so she can have a more detailed information of the island’s layout.

Afterwards, they usually end the day relaxing on the crow’s nest, waiting for the sun to set while drinking or sometimes they’d settle inside the library, with Nami hunching down at her mapping desk, eager to start her charts while Zoro caught on his forty winks on the bench nearby.

Sometimes they’d end the day at taverns, drinking the night away (while she mooched and nicked belis from unsuspecting gullible men so they could use it to buy some more drinks much to Zoro’s amusement).

Then they’d close the night or dawn after drinking enjoying each other on the bed.

Consistently.

She felt realization sink in at that moment.

From the way they were behaving with each other and the way that their so-called tryst had been going on for some time now… it definitely gives the impression that they are kind of ‘together’.

Because holy hell she just realized that they were just… unofficial. Because they never talked about it. They never properly labelled it.

Why didn’t it occur to her? She was the smart one. She’d been reading everything wrongly. She was assuming everything incorrectly.

She was drawing in shaky breaths that Zoro was now looking at her with a concerned frown.

“Nami you’re looking pale.” He observed as she just blankly stared at him.

Oh gosh. Did her brain just flat lined?

“Oi Nami breathe!”

“I’m good, I’m good!” Nami assured him. She just needs a minute to compose herself. Or two. Or five. Or half an hour to an hour because what he said had just thrown her completely off balance.

“It was just like my life is flashing before my eyes,” she murmured offhandedly.

“Huh?”

She waved her hand slightly to tell him to forget what she said.

“So when you said earlier that you’re with someone…” she began.

Zoro had an unreadable expression on his face; his attention was focused on her.

“Yeah,” he finally answered. “Are we not?”

Are they not?

Nami stared at him. More seriously this time.

If she were to be honest…

She had thought a lot about it… about them… during the quiet hours before the early light of dawn starts to brighten the sky. As Zoro drifted off to sleep beside her, sated and spent and she veered into the threshold of wakefulness and sleep, her mind saving the image of the sleeping swordsman looking peaceful and content. Like sleeping beside her is the most normal thing in the world to do.

She imagined it a lot of times… that instead of a nameless tryst, what if they were really together?

To think, Zoro had already supposed that they are together while she was still wondering if there is a possibility that it would happen in this life or even the next.

She had forgotten how simple he was. How some things are just black and white for him. He is dense when it comes to matters like this.

And yet she was, as it turns out, denser.

Unlike her who was teetering into the unknown if they can or cannot be… Zoro just went right into thinking that they can and that they are… charging full straight ahead without any second thoughts just like how he always does in battles.

Because he knows what he wanted.

And he wanted her.

Nami pinched the bridge of her nose, exhaling a big sigh of relief. Every bit of tension she was feeling earlier dissipating in that single breath.

She wouldn’t have it any other way though.

Nami stood up and approached towards him, her heels clicking against the galley’s floorboards. Zoro eyed her warily.

She plopped down his lap, earning a grunt from him as her weight pressed down on Zoro’s unprepared thighs. He shot her an irritated look that Nami only answered with a cheeky grin.

Like hell she’d let him think otherwise. Not when she realized she can definitely shoot the moon and hit it.

But first…

“Zoro what made you think that? Aren’t we just sleeping together for fun?” She teasingly said as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

“So we are not?” The green-haired man asked; his tone gruff and a bit angry. Nami can definitely hear the disappointment in it.

“You still haven’t asked me!”

They looked at each other, gazes challenging each other.

“Didn’t think I need too.” Zoro said lowly. “You also think that.”

“What?!”

She frowned when a smirk appeared on his lips. A rather cocky one.

Because Zoro knew he was spot on.

“I don’t know what you are talking about.”

He laughed. “Nami I’m not that oblivious.”

She watched him laugh again, fascinated. She loved hearing him laugh out of amusement because of something she did or said. And pulling it out of him is making her feel like a hundred butterflies are fluttering inside her stomach.

When he stopped, he tucked her hair behind her ear and said earnestly. “But if you say we aren’t, then we aren’t. I’m not gonna force you into something you don’t want to be part of.”

Nami tightened her hold around his neck. He’s dense and sometimes clueless and he probably thinks what they were doing equates to being together instead of just randomly hooking up repeatedly and consistently.

But Zoro is all or nothing. Either your friends or not. Enemies or not.

Together or not.

And he chose to believe that they are together instead of just casually fooling around.

That says a lot. Really.

Good heavens what an idiot.

But he is her idiot. Apparently.

“So?”

“Hmm?”

“So yes?” He asked in a gravelly tone. “To this.”

“To us?”

“To us.”

Nami smiled. A feeling of elation overtaking her. All worries and uncertainty gone with the wind.

“Yes.”

“Good.” He rubbed her back up and down, the gesture soothing as Nami leaned her forehead against his. Zoro’s  lips found hers in the lightest of kiss, sealing the deal.

“I can’t believe you made me think you are with another women,” Nami muttered, rolling her eyes at him.

Zoro snorted. “I don’t know why you jumped into that conclusion. Like I’d want another. You’re handful enough.”

Nami tightened her grip around his neck some more, practically choking him in her arms.

“Oi!”

It was her turn to laugh this time.

She’d still make him pay for all of that stress much, much later though.

“Well,” she slid out of his lap to stand up. “That settles it. I’ll leave you to your meal. Sanji-kun will have a fit if you waste it.”

Zoro nodded.

Nami headed towards the upper deck stairs again; this time feeling completely different. Her were steps light, almost bouncing. Her whole being and heart now untroubled and her smile never leaving her face.

She turned around again to look back at her now official boyfriend.

“What?” Zoro raised an eyebrow at her, noting the Cheshire cat-like smile on her face.

“Oh nothing,” she shrugged her shoulders. “Just thinking of all the things I want to do to you later.” She said softly, teasingly, letting the suggestive thought behind her words linger in the air.

Zoro was now looking at her like he was going to pounce.

“Do not make me pound you here on the dining table.” He threatened.

She laughed at that before letting a smirk grace her lips. “Not the dining table Zoro! Besides, I’m also thinking of all the things I will make you do for me from now on.”

She watched with glee as the expression on his face changed to what can only be called as trepidation when he realized that he deliberately and willingly placed himself in a position just right under her thumb.

“See you later… babe,” she blew him a kiss, before heading up to the Sunny’s bath for a relaxing shower, all the while snickering and humming as he protested the new nickname she bestowed upon him.

[eirist]

A Taste of Christmas

COLD N' SWEET

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: Prompt # 31 – Cold Feet

ZoNa Holiday 2024 event at @zonamievents in Tumblr has ended. But I still want to share this quick one-shot. I’m starting this year’s ZoNa content with the last prompt from the ZoNa Holiday 2024. And yes, I still have pending drafts for the other prompts. I hope I finish them so I can close this collection.

Been a really busy and bustling last few days of December. And lo and behold, it’s 2025 already. So, HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone! Hope you had a blast celebrating it.

Also, you could guess what’s playing while I’m writing this from the title. LOL.

Summary: That is the fact. And one that she absolutely knows by now.

“Scoot over.”

“I am on the other end already,” Zoro drawled, looking at the navigator with an irritated expression on his face. “Nowhere to scoot over on so go sit somewhere else,” his good eye flicked over the expanse of the library bench. There is a lot of empty area to sit on. Why was she aiming for the spot where he was sitting and enjoying the silence?

Nami snickered knowingly. And Zoro wanted to groan inwardly. Of course she can’t help but try to get on his nerves tonight. It’s like an unhealthy compulsion, really.

The swordsman was lounging on the library bench just beside the Christmas tree the crew had set-up and decorated for the holiday. He had one of the festive mugs on his hand that they had used for the eggnog the cook made especially for the occasion. And he knew that Nami would bet all her belis that whatever Zoro had in it, is just purely booze.

And she was right.

With a Cheshire cat smile, the orange-haired woman settled down on the bench, a little too close for his comfort. She can tell that by the way a frown was now scrunching up his face.

She wasn’t bothered by his reaction. Zoro can frown all he wants but that will not be able to deter her. She’s immune to it by now. He should’ve known that.

Nami kicked of her boots, leaving it lying on the floor as she sat down. Twisting her body sideways, she brought up her legs on the bench, hugging them. Her toes wiggled inside her festive socks, the movement catching Zoro’s eye momentarily.

“Whatcha got there Zoro?” She asked, sounding childishly and looking like one with that mischievous grin still on her face.

“You really need to ask?” He grunted, taking a drink from his mug.

The way her eyes lit up at his answer made him know that she, indeed, had bet her money on what he was drinking. And she just won.

“No.” She responded, with a small laugh. She playfully poked his thigh with her foot and Zoro grabbed it to put a stop to her antics without even looking.

His head suddenly whipped towards her.

“The hell is wrong with your feet?!” He was now looking at her incredulously.

“What?” Nami jerked back a bit at his reaction. She arched an eyebrow at him as she stared down her foot which was really looking dainty against his big hand.

“Why is it cold?” Zoro hissed at her like it was her fault.

It was her turn to frown. “I get cold feet easily,” she explained with a shrug like it was the most normal thing in the world, pulling her feet away from his hand.

“You’re wearing socks already,” Zoro pointed out. “And it still feels like ice.”

“I dunno…” Nami looked like she was pondering on the reason why. “Maybe these socks aren’t as thick as I thought them to be.” She wiggled her toes again as she studied them. “I’m not bothered by it.” She said, poking his thigh again impishly.

“Tch! I am.” Zoro muttered as he put his mug down on the floor, just beneath the Christmas tree for safekeeping, looking irritated as ever.

Nami watched him with a curious look on her face. He was mumbling something about ‘troublesome woman’ and it took all of her strength not to punch him on the head.

Why the hell is he making a big deal out of this? It’s her feet not his!

He grasped her ankles with his hands, pulling her feet towards him. Nami yelped, startled by his unexpected action, her butt slightly sliding on the bench. She opened her mouth to yell at him but the sound died in her throat when Zoro lifted the hem of his sweater and without a word, tucked her feet inside his clothes… as if it was the most natural thing to do at times like this.

The orange-haired woman was astounded. She gaped at him, unable to express anything.

“Shut up.” Was the only thing Zoro said when he recognized the look on Nami’s face.

The mapmaker was quiet for a moment. Then she wiggled her feet inside his sweater, poking at his abdomen like a cat kneading. Zoro threw her an infuriated look.

“This was a bad idea.” He made a move to remove her feet from his clothes when Nami immediately seized his hands to stop him.

“No, no it’s not.” She said cheekily as she squeezed his fingers. “It’s the best idea! Better than actually rubbing my feet with your hands. Your haramaki does wonders.” She hummed as she pressed her feet against it; the feel of the stomach band he wears all the time was soft and warm against her socked feet.

“NAMI!” He grunted when she tried to slide her feet underneath it to get some more warmth.

She ignored his protest and continued humming appreciatively, throwing him a smile that Zoro doesn’t know if he’d categorize as mischievous or grateful. It did distract him enough for her to successfully get her feet under it. The texture of the socks on her feet rubbed against his bare skin and he realized that she was actually wearing thin ones.

He sighed exasperatedly. Wasn’t she supposed to be the one who knows all about clothes and stuff? Why was she wearing thing ones in this kind of weather?

His hand went to cradle her feet against him as she continued to knead and wiggle her toes on his abdomen. It wasn’t cold as it was earlier. Good.

The things he would do for this troublesome woman.

“These are really hard,” Nami suddenly spoke out as she continued her ministrations; purposely poking her toes on his abs. Zoro just stared at her unamused. He knows that if he wasn’t holding her feet, she would’ve deliberately slid one down to a much lower place where it’s not supposed to be just to tease him. He can sense her intention. He knows her too well to let an opportunity to rile him up (this time in a rather different way) pass.

The chortle that escaped her proved he was right. But she digress.

“Thank you Zoro,” she murmured softly, resting her head against the bench’s backrest looking at him with a certain fondness that he was now familiar with. “You must really like me so much to do this.”

“Shut up.”

“I like you too.”

“I said shut up.”

But he never denied it.

Nami giggled and blew him a kiss before she closed her eyes; her body relaxing as she enjoyed the feeling of being tucked in his warmth.

Zoro sighed and he gave her feet a light squeeze, a sort of affirmation that no matter how he reacts and no matter what words do not come out of his mouth.

She is right. He likes her.

That is the fact. And one that she absolutely knows by now.

Besides wasn’t that obvious when he kissed her amidst the falling snow last time?

[eirist]

A Taste of Christmas

LET IT SNOW

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: Prompt # 13 – Fallen Snow

ZoNa Holiday 2024 event is currently happening at @zonamievents in Tumblr! We have different themes/prompts for every day of December. Kindly check it and you can share any of your ZoNa works so we can all enjoy them!

This was a late entry. And the only one I finished writing while drinking my post-Christmas dinner hot chocolate. Since it’s near done, I thought I better wrap this up even if there is a different prompt for today. I’m working on it and some other drafts as well. I hope I get to post them in the next few days.

Anyway, MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone!!!

Summary: He had hoped against hope that she wouldn’t catch on that easily as he tried to figure out what was the cause of this incessant urge to spend most of his waking time with her.

“Hey.”

Zoro cracked an eye open at the sound of her voice. Nami was peering down at him with a curious look on her face. Her cheeks were flushed from the cold but the pink winter coat she had on only deepened the hue and made her looked like she was deeply blushing.

He blinked up at her in a mixture of wonder and awe. She looks… nice.

Her expression suddenly changed—her brows furrowing and forehead scrunching. In the midst of thinking about the way she looks right now, Zoro realized that she was asking him a question.

“Huh?” He managed to sound out and fought the urge to wince. Why did his respond sounded like he was a dud?

There was a sharp intake of breath followed by a disapproving look as Nami repeated her question.

“I asked what the hell are you doing sleeping out here in the cold?”

Oh. So that was it.

Zoro glanced groggily at his surroundings. He was on the lawn deck, leaning against the railing of the Sunny—one of his favorite spots to nap. He opened his mouth and yawned, taking his sweet time as Nami stared down at him with eyes narrowing by the second.

He brought a hand up to scratch his head and realized they were a bit stiff and cold from being exposed without protection while he was dozing off. He did don a coat and some proper winter clothes but opted out any head gear or gloves.

To his defense it wasn’t this chilly earlier when he first situated himself here. He wasn’t really expecting the weather to take a turn while he was resting. He was thinking it’s gonna happen much, much later.

In front of him, Nami rolled her eyes at his idiocy. She made a tch-ing sound on her mouth before crouching down in front of him and grabbing his hand.

“I swear Zoro, you’re gonna turn your ass into an icicle before the day ends.” She chastised him as she pulled something out of her coat’s pocket. He didn’t bother retorting or pulling away. He was feeling too lazy to protest.

Plus Nami’s gloved hands were warm and feels good as she randomly squeezed his in an attempt to chase the coldness on them away.

“Here.” She placed the gloves on his upturned palm. “Aren’t you listening when I said that the weather will turn colder around this time? It’ll most likely snow today.” There was that frown again marring her pretty face.

“Hnn…”

He didn’t bother affirming that he was, indeed, not listening to her. It would start an argument with her and it was too cold for that. Instead, he dutifully tucked his hands in the gloves she’d given him.

Zoro wasn’t really in the mood to be obstinate with her. She did bring it for him and he wasn’t about to let her effort be wasted. Plus, it was a nice gesture—a really nice and rare gesture coming from the navigator.

He could only hope, she’s not charging him for this.

She was silently watching him, somehow amazed that he wasn’t arguing with her about this.

A sigh escaped her. “What will you do without me?” She asked.

The corner of his lips quirked up. “Turn into an icicle, probably.”

Nami looked surprised at his answer. And she burst out laughing.

The swordsman smirked at the sound.

“Now can I go back to sleep?” He drawled, crossing his arms over his chest and leaning back against the Sunny’s railing.  

She rolled her eyes at him. “Fine.” She stood up and brushed some imaginary dust on her coat’s front. “Don’t say I didn’t warn you. If you turn to ice, we’ll just chuck you overboard.”

He snorted. And surprisingly Nami didn’t have any comeback for that. She just stared at something before her. There was a wistful look on her face and an odd, serene countenance Zoro almost never sees in her. Nami has always been a fiery, explosive force. Seeing her calm and quiet was piquing his curiosity. 

He watched her as she gazed at the island in front of her.

“What’s that you’re looking at?”

“Hmm?” Nami turned her head back to him. “Nothing.” She thoughtfully chewed her bottom lip before her she went back to watching whatever it was that caught her eye.

Zoro quirked an eyebrow. She had his full attention now.

“Tch. You’re acting off. Should I be worried?”

At that question, Nami shifted gaze to him. There was a cheeky grin was on her face now.

“Ah Zoro! That’s so sweet of you!”

“Shut up.”

Nami chortled at his reaction. “I’m just studying the island,” she explained. “I’m wondering what it looks like with snow. It’s probably like a winter wonderland.”

Zoro just stared at her. Snow got her excited huh?

Didn’t she say it’s gonna fall anytime soon?

He suddenly stood up, earning a surprised look from Nami. He gave the whole island a quick glance.

“Let’s go for a walk.”

“Huh?”

Zoro let out a disgruntled sound. “I said let’s go for a walk.” He repeated, tilting his head towards the island.

“Uh why?” Nami stared at him dubiously. Why was he suddenly asking her to go for a random walk?

The green-haired man frowned. “You don’t want to?”

“Oh,” Nami intoned. Then she placed her hands on her cheeks in a gesture of astonishment. “Oh! You’re asking me to go for a walk with you!” She exaggeratedly gasped.

“What?” Zoro stared incredulously at her and her reaction. “I mean yeah I am!”

“But to you… that’s almost equivalent to asking someone out on a date!” The mapmaker pointed out teasingly.

“What?!”

“Aaaaaw, how can I say no?” Nami flashed him an exaggeratedly sweet smile, batting her eyelashes at him. “Yes Zoro I will go and walk with you.”

He glared at her and her obvious attempt at poking fun at him. “You know what, I changed my mind.”

“Huh?” Nami blinked up at him.

“I said I changed my mind.”

“No you don’t!” She said in a deadpan manner, not amused at how he abruptly changed his mind. “Let’s go!” She made a grab for his hand, tugging him toward the part where the ladder leading down the ship was.

“Fine,” Zoro hissed. “No need to pull that hard!”

She just grinned cheekily at him and continued yanking him.

“I said I’m already coming witch.” He muttered. But he still let the orange-haired woman pull him. Whatever possessed him to ask her that, he doesn’t know and he probably never will. 

He seemed to be doing and deciding unusual things when it comes to her lately.

“You better hold my hand Zoro so you don’t get lost.” Nami suggested when they reached the ladder.

“Can it witch! I don’t get lost!”

Her warm brown eyes narrowed and she was looking at him unamused. “I’d bet my next island’s allowance that it’s not even gonna take a minute before you disappear on me.”

“Hah. You’re on.” Zoro snorted at the absurdity of her claim. He doesn’t get lost. It was them that keep disappearing on him.

“You lose, I get your allowance.” Nami stuck her tongue out at him.

He gave her a slight nudge. “Come on witch. Let’s go before the others sees us.”

Nami shot him a confused look. She stared at him for a good few seconds before she snickered.

And Zoro was already dreading what she’s going to say after that.

“Oh wow all hush-hush and just the two of us.”

The look she had on her face made him grit his teeth.

“So it is like a secret date huh?” She innocently asked.

Zoro stared at her in aghast. He felt his face heat up.

Trust Nami to definitely know how to push his buttons.

“Nami. I swear to—”

“Shush Zoro and let’s go!” She swiftly cut him off with a quick jerk on his arm and one fist pumping in the air.

They quickly made their way down the ladder. It was strange that none of the crewmates where loitering about the ship to see them. Zoro surmised that it probably has something to do with the chilly weather. Mostly everyone is probably hiding in the warmth of respective rooms doing their own things or sleeping.

They walked in silence once they disembarked, keeping a good distance between them. Zoro shoved his hands on his pocket while Nami walked beside him, her hands clasped behind her, humming a ditty she probably picked up from one of Brook’s violin sessions as they trudged along the path leading to the pine forest and onwards into the island’s town.

He sneaked a glance at the navigator. She was still humming, but this time his ears registered a rather different tune, yet still from Brook’s pieces. She looked relaxed like she was actually enjoying the hushed moment between them.

“You’re not going to ask where we are going?” He finally inquired when she continued walking in quietude.

“Hmm?” She gave him a sideway glance. Then she smiled. “Figured out where gonna head straight to town so you can drink.”

Zoro chuckled. Well that wasn’t what was on his mind when he asked her earlier. But the tavern is most likely the place they’ll end up in once they reach town.

“I just want to walk,” he said before he can stop himself. He felt the familiar warmth appearing on his face. Like he just blurted out a secret no one was supposed to know.

“Uh-huh,” Nami nodded. “With me.”

Zoro stopped walking and turned his head towards her sharply.

There was that Cheshire cat-like grin on her lips again. Along with that knowing look in her eye.

When he didn’t reply, Nami just continued to walk forward nonchalantly. Like she didn’t just drop a bomb or something on him.

Shit. It was that obvious?

“You seemed to like doing some things with me lately.” The orange-haired woman stated without breaking her stride. She was humming again as she moved farther from Zoro.

Zoro stared at her back. And stared and stared.

She was right about that. He had hoped against hope that she wouldn’t catch on that easily as he tried to figure out what was the cause of this incessant urge to spend most of his waking time with her.

Near her.

Just within her presence.

But Nami was smart and she was sharp.

Grumbling lowly about how his luck sucked and how Nami would surely have the time of her life teasing him about it, he traipsed forward to follow her.

Nami stopped walking and was looking back amusedly at him. She adored this little slip of his. It was so obvious these last few weeks that the swordsman… may have taken a liking to her.

There was a scowl on his face as he approached her. And before he can even open his mouth to start a row or whatever with her, she beat him to it.

“Don’t worry Zoro,” she smiled. “I really like that you are doing things with me lately.”

They gazed at each other for a moment. Zoro with his mouth opening and closing as if he wanted to say something and Nami with her shoulders quaking slightly from trying to stop herself from giggling as he fumbled his way to a retort, a quick comeback or a snappy remark to save his face.

But they both knew it was futile.

Something fell on Nami’s nose, then on her lashes and she blinked in surprise. Shaking her head slightly, it took her a few seconds to realize what it was.

She looked up.

“Aah! It’s snowing!” She squealed as she observed the hundreds and thousands flecks rain down the sky, falling softly everywhere to swathe the whole island in a dazzling white enchantment.

Zoro was also looking up. So there it was. It had already fallen before they even make it to the town proper.

Good thing though because it did distract Nami somehow.

He suddenly felt her nudged him on the side. She had moved closer to him while he was busy watching at the falling snow.

“You had this on mind?” She asked playfully with a hint of mischievousness behind her brown eyes. “A walk in the falling snow?”

“Definitely no.” He grunted.

Nami chortled. “Romantic.”

“Shut it witch.”

“Aaw Zoro, who’d have known you’re really are sweet underneath all that grumpiness?” Nami said jokingly as she stepped closer to him. She brushed away the fallen snow that accumulated from his coat, only for them to be replaced by another and another. A wasted attempt really. 

She looked up at him from what she was doing and smiled. 

It felt like everything stopped at that. And Zoro drew in a deep breath. 

Damn it. Nami really got him bad.

He reached out to brush his thumb against her cheek making Nami halt her ministration.

In the midst of falling snow and white Zoro finally gave in to the urge and kissed her. 

[eirist]

A Taste of Christmas

TWELVE O'CLOCK

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: Prompt # 18 – Midnight

ZoNa Holiday 2024 event is currently happening at @zonamievents in Tumblr! We have different themes/prompts for every day of December. Kindly check it and you can share any of your ZoNa works so we can all enjoy them!

I missed ZoNa fluff and ZoNa teasing! I’ve been busy lately since holidays are coming and there are obligatory parties to attend. But I managed to finish one! I do have another for a previous prompt but I wasn’t able to post it in time. Might do it in the next days. Anyway. Enjoy!

Summary: “Guess we have to open it and celebrate Christmas early.”

“Zoro.”

The green-haired man lifted his head up almost immediately. Brown eyes stared at him from the opening of the crow’s nest. He fought the urge to grimace at the fleeting guilty feeling that flashed inside him at the thought she had caught him in the middle of dozing off.

Almost dozing off. Almost being the keyword here.

“What?” He all but snarled at her, a futile attempt to save face. Her mischievous grin tells it all.

“Are you sleeping?” Nami asked teasingly from the nest’s entrance where she was perched at. Her grin turned catty and he was reminded of the moniker attached to her name in her wanted poster. “And right in the middle of your watch?!”

He huffed. “You caught me resting my eyes.” It was a blatant denial. But there is no way in hell that he would let her lord this over him.

Her mouth moved to form an exaggerated ‘oh’ before she pushed herself up and entered the crow’s nest.

She was bundled up in thick winter clothes from head to toe. A deep green bobble hat was on her head coupled with a thick, deep green winter scarf around her neck that he was positively sure belongs to him.

He didn’t bother asking her about it. He knew it was good as gone. Nami had indeed taken the liberty of using some of his winter ensemble recently. Granted that she was the one who bought them (since she usually does the clothes shopping for him and Luffy), but still…

Zoro decided it was not worth bringing it up. Because in a strange twist of fate, he’s pretty sure she’ll find a reason to charge him for giving it back to him. Like a finder’s fee or whatever the hell reason she could think of.

Nami approached him and he noticed that the small puffs of her breath were visible in the night air. It was colder tonight than the previous night. It had been constantly snowing on the island where they are currently moored. It hadn’t been persistent but it was enough to make the temperature drop much lower and even blanketed the whole island in thick, fluffy whiteness much to his other crewmates’ delight.

“Usopp said you’ll take over the whole watch tonight?” The navigator inquired while rubbing both of her arms in an attempt to keep herself warm. Her voice trembled slightly and Zoro can sense how the chill was able to seep down to her very bones making her shiver.

“Yeah… what about it?”

“Damn it. Didn’t Franky install a heater here or something?” She complained, looking around the room before she plopped down beside him, brashly shoving her body beside his in an effort to get warmer.

Zoro raised an eyebrow as her body suddenly settled beside him, almost him toppling to the floor. It wasn’t like he was unprepared for it. But Nami placed all her weight on him the moment she decided to sit beside him.

“Hey!”

“S-sorry!”

“You’re not exactly that light!”

“What’s that supposed to mean?!”

“I mean don’t put all your weight on me like that all of a sudden!”

“But it so cold Zoro!”

“Troublesome woman!” Zoro muttered even as he adjusted their position so Nami was now pressed against his side and tucked snugly under his arm. “Why did you even went up here in the first place knowing it’s cold?!”

She hummed appreciatively at the gesture and snuggled closer to him. Zoro refused to look at her face knowing what he’ll see on it.

That blasted cheeky grin that he had actually come to like.

“I went to check on you.” Nami said almost breathlessly. She shuddered again and Zoro let out a sigh before drawing her closer to him as his hand rubbed at her arm up and down in a soothing manner.

“You don’t need to do that.”

“I went here to see if you are sleeping on your watch and you are.” Nami whispered, tilting her head up at him so she can look at his face. Her breath ghosted at his jaw and Zoro fought the urge to quiver from its coldness or from… something else.

“I am not sleeping!”

“I beg to differ.” Nami said with a sniff.

“You’re gonna catch a cold here.” Zoro said matter-of-factly.

“Uuh… I don’t wanna get sick!”

“Then just go back down to your room.” He suggested when she sniffled again.

Nami rolled her eyes. He did have a point and Zoro knew he got this round.

“Fine,” she reluctantly agreed. The cold was making it harder for her to quarrel and be obstinate with him. “I actually went up to give you this.” She pulled out a bottle of sake from inside her winter jacket. “Since you’re on watch the whole night tonight, thought you could use some company.”

The grin on his face was unrivaled. He took the bottle from her almost immediately.

“Consider it an early Christmas present.”

His expression faltered and he narrowed his eye at her at that. “Really? And how much is this present gonna cost me?”

Nami shrugged her shoulders. “Nothing much.”

“Uh-huh…” he intoned still not believing that this favor doesn’t come with a price.

The orange-haired woman pouted at his reaction. Then she snickered.

Zoro knows her too well.

“It’s midnight already and technically that means it’s Christmas eve,” Nami explained in a mock serious tone. “So that means you’ve got errands to do later just like the rest of us in preparation for our party!”

Zoro cocked an eyebrow at her.

“Which means no sleeping all day to escape your chores!”

“I knew this sake favor was too good to be true!”

“You bet your ass,” Nami nodded approvingly at his remark. Her gloved finger bopped his nose lightly. “So that means when I wake you up to go to the market and shop, you will wake up and go to the market and shop with me!”

The swordsman stared incredulously at her. “Need I remind you that I’m covering the entire night watch?” He drawled not really amused where this was all going. “That means I’ll be up until morning.”

“Oh please,” Nami rolled her brown orbs exaggeratedly to emphasize that she’s not buying his excuse. “We both know you’ll be sleeping once you get enough sake in your system and had a few good reps of your training.”

That pulled out a laugh from him. He smirked at how she accurate her assumption was. That was what he was actually planning to do from midnight onwards—get some winter training done while on night watch with some alcohol on the side.

Nami knows him too well.

“Alright,” he agreed easily that it earned a look of astonishment from Nami.

“Alright?” The mapmaker repeated as if she hadn’t heard it correctly.

Zoro smirked. “Alright. Consider that your Christmas gift.”

“Zoro!”

He chuckled at her pouting expression. She knew he was just pulling her leg. Hell will break loose if Nami didn’t get a present from him. She made sure that he has one for her.

And Zoro knows there are just some things he just have to give in for the sake of sanity.

Nami was shaking her head as she pushed away from his embrace. He looked at her questioningly.

“I’m gonna freeze my ass off here Zoro if I stay anymore,” she complained petulantly. “It’s really cold. I don’t know how you can stay here!”

“It’s a state of mind.”

“Yeah, yeah.” She agreed with a nod. “All in the mind.” She blew at her bangs exasperatedly. “Just don’t try any winter night swimming or any of that weird training shit you usually come up with ok?”

“No promises.”

She glared at him. “Or I’ll be taking that sake with me.” She threatened in sickly sweet tone.

“Fine!” Zoro grumbled as he pushed the bottle away and out of her reach.

“Good! I’m going down now. I can’t feel my face anymore.” Nami said as she pushed herself on her knees to stand up.

She hesitated for a moment before leaning forward and pressing her lips against his.

“Good night Zoro,” she murmured, a small smile gracing her lips.

Zoro was looking at her intensely. “You are cold,” he muttered lowly before he leaned closer and captured her lips with his.

If this was his way of warming her up, then she had no complaints.

The green-haired man was smiling easily when he pulled away; thumb brushing against her cold cheek. His brows furrowed slightly before saying, “You taste like hot chocolate.”

Nami laughed. She knew he didn’t like sweets and all. But she did have a hot chocolate drink with marshmallows on top care of the blond cook before climbing up the crow’s nest.

“My bad,” she murmured. “Well in my defense, the sake wasn’t opened yet.”

Zoro laughed at that.

“Guess we have to open it and celebrate Christmas early.”

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

NO RUSH

One-shot #: 39

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: Happy Birthday Zoro baby! Belated because I wasn’t able to finish this on time. Of course we’re gonna get a really fluffy, grossly sweet ZoNa one-shot for his birthday.

I wanted to try writing something different for them this time. I hope it turns out okay. Enjoy!

Summary: She’ll take this as a win. There’s no need to rush.

“You okay?”

Nami sat down the lawn deck of the Thousand Sunny beside the still drinking swordsman. She took a deep breath before answering his question, savouring the cool night air. The sound of the ocean waves lightly and rhythmically lapped against the ship’s hull.

“Yep! We’ve been through this already Zoro,” she bemoaned, raising an eyebrow at him. “It’ll take more than that to put me down.”

Zoro only scoffed at her overconfidence. 

“I can drink enough to take you down,” she proudly added, before throwing her head back to laugh. 

Zoro only grunted at her. Of course he was not underestimating the navigator’s drinking prowess. He knows she can keep up with him—he admits it, begrudgingly though.

Plus, they were still in the process of figuring out who’s the better drinker because so far... they are in a deadlock. 

He chose to ignore her continuing chortles. “Your face is all red,” he remarked casually before tipping the sake bottle to his lips.

Nami stopped laughing and childishly stuck her tongue out at him. He just ignored it and reached out for another bottle, wordlessly handing it to her for her to enjoy (and also so she wouldn’t snag his for her own amusement).

He saw her nose wrinkled in displeasure as she stared at the bottle. Nami was not really a fan of sake. She preferred her drinks with more flavor and color—like fancy wines or some other expensive hard liquor with shades reminiscent of gold.  

He tapped the bottle with his finger, a wordless indication that she would definitely like it. It was a specially brewed sake from Wano after all, and was kept in the Sunny’s wine cellar for special occasions.

Like tonight.

Nami took it with a soft ‘oh’ when she realized what it was. She finally recognized the bottle. It was one of the expensive liquors left in the castle at the Flower capital by Orochi and his minions that they managed to get their hands on while exploring around.

It was the finest sake ever to be brewed in the country and was only made for the high ranking officials’ enjoyment according to Denjiro. Its taste was exquisite that Nami had taken a liking to it when she first drank it.

That was also the reason why Zoro was drinking tonight with so much enthusiasm. He had been waiting for a chance to raid that specific sake stock.

“Don’t drink them all up,” she warned him. “Leave some for other occasions.”

“Sake is made to be drunk,” he countered tonelessly. “Not to be stocked.”

Nami slapped his shoulder lightly. “All I’m saying is it’s going to take long before we visit Wano again!”

“Hnn…”

The orange-haired woman sighed. It was no use trying to stop him. It was just like trying to stop Luffy from eating all the meat he can get his hands on… a hard, tiring and futile work.  

She opened the bottle to take a drink and smiled in pure satisfaction when the familiar taste rolled on her tongue.

The Thousand Sunny had dropped anchor for the night; just beside a small but lush random islet they had spotted earlier. According to Nami’s charts, they are still days away from the next island and the crew wanted to hold a barbecue party for their swordsman’s birthday.

Actually it was their captain who was really adamant to have said party. Zoro couldn’t care less if his birthday was celebrated or not. They could’ve just given him the ships’ liquor stock to drink and he’d be happy.

But Luffy was insistent, probably because he knows that birthdays meant Sanji will prepare a celebratory banquet… even if it’s for Zoro.

They had the celebration by the islet’s beach before moving it to the Sunny’s lawn deck once the high tide rolled in; the waves had nearly taken the tables and chairs they had set up as they receded back to the ocean, along with two of their devil fruit users—namely Luffy and Chopper—as they tried to chase the drifting items.

They ate and drank the night away, as loud and boisterous as they can get. They are in the midst of nowhere after all, and the islet where they docked doesn’t have any inhabitants that they might disturb with all the commotion they are making.

“All the inebriated ones are now tucked in their beds,” Nami suddenly spoke up after taking a drink from her bottle. “I hope Usopp doesn’t wake up to hurl again.”

“It’s a miracle you managed to get them all inside,” Zoro pointed out.

It had been really chaotic earlier. Drinking was of course, the highlight of Zoro’s birthday celebration. So the barrels kept coming, the alcohol kept flowing and the toasts keep happening until those with low tolerance cannot take it anymore and just passed out on the lawn, too inebriated to move or stay conscious.

“Hmmm… Brook and Jinbei helped before they decided to hit the sack as well,” Nami explained.

“Hnn…”

“I’m tired of watching and hearing Usopp stand up to retch over the railing every thirty minutes while I’m enjoying my drink.” She continued with an annoyed sigh.

“He’s gonna puke all over the room,” Zoro grumbled.

Nami smiled cheekily at him. “Not my problem.”

“Tch!”

Laughter came out of her again. “Hmmm... you can actually stay at the crow’s nest if that happens.”

Zoro did not respond to that and instead took another swig of his drink. It was quiet on the deck now, the only sound they can hear are from the waves hitting the shore and slapping against the ship’s wooden hull.

For a few seconds, neither one of them said anything. They just stayed sitting there, drinking and revelling in the rather quiet night amidst the calm sea.

Then Nami nudged his shoulder with her own to get his attention. “So,” she began when he finally looked at her. “What do you want for your birthday?”

Zoro just smirked in response. He knew she wasn’t able to get him anything, given that they’ve been sailing for days now and she didn’t have the opportunity to shop. Not that he minded. He wasn’t really that keen about gifts.

And also, he knew that she had sweet-talked that stupid cook into allowing him access to the ‘special’ alcohol stocks he’d been safeguarding for reasons Zoro doesn’t know or want to understand. Like all that sake from Wano.

That’s actually enough gift for him.

“Zorooo,” Nami called out, pouting. “Come on say something!”

“Peace and quiet,” he finally answered her, a smirk still on his lips. “The usual stuff.”

Nami rolled her eyes at him and nudge his shoulder with hers again. “I already got you peace and quiet. See? We’re the only ones here.” She gestured on the lawn deck. True enough it is just them and the remnants of the merrymaking earlier strewn all over the place.

“Plus I also got you all this drinks!” Nami pointed at the bottles beside him. “You know Sanji-kun would never let you near them.”

Zoro grinned. “I know. Thanks!”

“That’s it?” She gasped a bit exaggeratedly.

“I’m already good,” Zoro affirmed as he shook the bottle in his hand to show that he got what he wanted and needed right there.

“Oh too bad, I am actually feeling generous tonight.” Nami winked saucily at him. “Anything you want.”

Zoro stilled for a moment, the bottle in his hand paused mid-air. He cocked an eyebrow at her, not really believing her statement.

“Anything?”

She nodded. “Yeah anything…” Then her voice trailed off as she stared at him, her brows furrowing. The current contemplative expression on his face actually making her a bit uneasy.

Maybe she shouldn’t have said that?

Zoro was silent for a few seconds. He was just looking at her… thinking.

“Alright,” he suddenly said.

Nami blinked, waiting for him to continue as a sense of trepidation began to fill her.

------------------------

Nami was looking downright nervous as hell. The feeling from earlier had intensified as the seconds ticked by.

She didn’t even know why she’s feeling this way. There’s nothing to be nervous about right?

Right?

On top of all that apprehension, she was also feeling a certain excitement. It was a strange mixture of emotions that sent her head reeling.

“So how are we doing this?” Nami found her voice after clearing her throat multiple times and finally asked her question without it cracking.

“Huh?” Zoro looked at her quizzically.

“Like how are we going to do this?” She repeated her question again this time with emphasis on her words. She tapped her foot, a tad impatiently. “I am not going to lie down the cold nest’s floor as it is!”

Zoro shrugged. He opened one of the bottom cabinets Franky had installed below the bench encircling the room and pulled something out. Nami recognized it as one of those bulky mattresses they used in Wano.

“A futon? You got one here?”

“I usually sleep here,” Zoro muttered as he lifted the rolled bedding so he could spread it on the floor.

“I am amaze that you actually have one here. It’s not like you’re bothered by the hard floor. You sleep anywhere.”

A vein ticked off his forehead. “Do you want this? Or do you want the cold floor?”

“Hey,” Nami retorted, hands on her hips. “You’re the one who asked me here with you. At least make sure I’m comfortable!”

She felt her cheeks heat up at what she said. And she’s surely grateful that the lights on the crow’s nest are not on, the darkness hiding the crimson blush that colored her cheeks.

She really shouldn’t have dropped the ‘anything’ deal. But to be fair, Nami didn’t really think Zoro would ask her for something. He’s low maintenance and easily satisfied after all. The alcohol favour and the peace and quiet time earlier would’ve been enough to make him content.

Very so unlike her.

But she had to push it and now…

She swallowed the lump that formed in her throat when he stood up straight, the futon now unfurled on the floor, awaiting its occupants.

Ready for them. The occupants.

Nami cleared her throat again. Zoro was watching her intently, one eyebrow cocked, waiting for her.

“Well?” He prompted.

Nami took a deep breath.

Out of all the things the green-haired man can request from her, he just had to ask her…

… to sleep with him.

LITERALLY.

Nami fought the urge to massage her temples.

There are a hundred things he can demand from her and this is what he came up with?

What in the seven hells?!

Nami didn’t know what to feel right at this moment. It was a myriad of emotions.

Slighty nervous?  

Yes.

Excited?

Also yes.

A bit confused?

She definitely is.

Weirded out?

Yeah, kind of. It was definitely a strange thing to ask for… especially coming from him of all people!

Insulted?

You can say that. Because even with the option and the opportunity to take advantage of their ‘current status’, it still didn’t occur to the green-haired man to try to be a bit more… forward with his request.

He just asked her to just join him in sleeping. Just lie down beside him and zone out oblivious to the world.

Nothing more!

Oh hell she was also disappointed… really, kinda, disappointed.

Because seriously they’ve been really taking their relationship really slow…

Not that the navigator is complaining, she kind of like how this is progressing. They’re taking it one day at a time, no rush. They’re giving each other enough time to adjust and understood each other’s paces as they transitioned from friends to actual lovers.

Nami liked to think that in a way, she and Zoro definitely want this to work between them—the long run—and not just have a rather hasty affair that would just fizzle in the end because heaven knows when they clash, they really clash.

Intimacy is something that’s not easy for both of them, especially with him since he is usually calm and composed, keeping his feelings in check most of the times and wasn’t in the least bit affectionate. It took some considerable effort before he was comfortable with holding hands and even kissing. And it took a much great deal of work before he became at ease with the idea of Nami touching him or him touching her and that such things can happen spontaneously at any given time before everything became an easy affair between them.

But that was it. They still haven’t moved past that. And his request now really threw her off  and actually made her think that maybe… he is ready to be more intimate with her?

The thought prompted another wave of heat sweeping all over her. And again she was thankful for the darkness for hiding her face because she knows how red it had turned from her all her ponderings.

“Look you said anything right?” Zoro’s deep voice cut through her musings. He had the decency to cross his arms over his strapping chest, now clad in tight black tank top instead of his usual green attire and stared her down.

Nami rolled her eyes. “Fine,” she mumbled and took a step toward him. She had changed into decent pajamas foregoing the usual sexy top and shorts she prefers to sleep in.

Honestly, she should be wearing some sexy lingerie and seducing the control out of him tonight and giving him a birthday he’ll never, ever forget. 

But instead, she donned a really simple (but cute, of course) pajama shirt and shorts with tiny red ribbon patterns scattered all over the fabric with an equally red drawstring ribbon.

It was as innocent as his birthday request to her.

He held out his hand. Even in astonishment, Nami took it. And she let him pull her towards him.

“Nami if you’re uncomfortable with this, let’s just forget it.” He said lowly, peering at her face, studying her expression and trying to figure out what is going on inside her mind.

She shook her head. “No. No. It’s ok.” She gave him a smile. “I did say I’m feeling generous right?”

“Yeah you really are,” Zoro grinned. “And I get the feeling you’ll try to get even.”

That made her giggle and she squeezed his hand. “Of course I will.” She stood on tiptoes so she could give him a kiss. “Happy birthday swordsman.”

“Thanks.” He was looking at her with amusement dancing behind his grey eye.

“Alright let’s do this,” Nami declared, tugging his hand.

They are really going to sleep together, beside each other.

Just the two of them, for the first time since they started sailing together.   

“Wait, you’re not planning to expose me to all your monstrous snoring all night just to get back at me or something, are you?” She narrowed her eyes at him when she recalled how thunderous he can get when asleep. “Because I swear Zoro, I will pinch your nose until you stop breathing!”

He stared at her incredulously. “I don’t snore all the time witch! Maybe you’ll find out tonight that I don’t.”

“Oh good, maybe I will.” She muttered as they settled down the futon, lying on their sides and facing each other.

Nami’s heart skipped a beat at how close they are right now. Zoro already had his eye closed, the moment his head nestled against the pillow. They had spent some time with each other before, but never this near unless they are kissing. But that doesn’t happen too often. Most the times it was in haste or fleeting or just trying to steal one from the other since a crewmate or two might chance upon them.

“I hope you took a bath today.” She wrinkled her nose to show her displease even if he’s not looking at her.

“You saw me came out of the bath earlier.” Zoro drawled his response. “I knew you’d complain endlessly if I didn’t.”

That piqued Nami’s curiosity. Was he already planning to ask her this? Because from what he just said, it seemed like he was preparing for this moment…

She was about to open her mouth again when he cut her off.

“Now shut up and sleep Nami.”

Nami reached out to pinch his cheek at that. It made him growl and his eye opened to glare at her menacingly.

“Nami!”

“Oops. My bad.” She shrugged one shoulder offhandedly.

“Tch!”

“Hmmm… I’m really surprised you ask for this for your birthday. I’ll take it that you want to see me first thing in the morning?” She cheekily stated. “Aww… that’s just sweet!”

Zoro snorted at her claim. “You are the first thing I see most morning. You always wake me up!”

“Because you sleep so much idiot!”

“Just shut up and go to sleep Nami!” He groaned at her.

She snuggled closer to her pillow, face pressing deeper into it. Her feet rubbing the bedding in a soothing manner. “This futon is amazing. Where are you even hiding it all this time?”

Zoro just stared blankly at her. “Up here? There are cabinets under the bench.”

“Gee, you really do sleep during your shift. I’m surprised we are not getting attack while you are on watch.”

“I can sense them coming,” he grunted, looking annoyed that she was belittling his skills. “I’ve dealt with them even before you are awake and aware.”

“Oooh…” Nami crooned teasingly. “Well at least I can sleep peacefully tonight knowing your still on guard even while snoring.” She smiled brazenly.

Zoro didn’t even answer back. He drew in a deep breath, eye closing again. Nami watched him slowly settle into slumber. Watched the way his face relaxed, the usually taut stance of his body loosening up.

He looked peaceful, far different from the guarded expression she usually sees when he’s napping on the Sunny’s deck, his katanas carefully tucked in his arms, ready to be unsheathed at a moment’s notice.

Earlier when he finally stated his request, she was really surprised. She honestly thought he wanted to do something leaning towards sexual intimacy.

But now lying here with him, almost at the precipice of sleep, Nami realized that what he wanted was a different sort of intimacy. One they also had never tried before.

Just innocently sleeping together.

She reached out to brush her thumb against the edge of the scar on his eye. He was handsome alright, more so when he’s looking as innocent as this.  

“I’m surprised you only asked for this,” she murmured. “You didn’t even consider requesting for debt immunity for your birthday gift? Or a free pass as my pack-mule for the rest of the year? That would be more practical.”

It took a few seconds before he answered her with a scoff, not even opening his eye.

“Like that would work.”

Nami smiled. Well that was actually true. He’d never escaped her when it comes to debt and charges. 

“Yeah it wouldn’t.” She agreed.

The corner of his lips quirked up at that.

Nami hesitated for a moment before asking again. “I’m also surprised you didn’t consider asking to take us to another level.”

This time Zoro opened his eye to look at her. She noted the seriousness in the lone grey orb and on his face as he gazed at her intently.

Then he chuckled. “All in a good time Nami. There’s no need to rush,” he said in a low tone before his hand was on her cheek, pulling her face towards him for a kiss.  

And Nami understood. There is a perfect time for that.

He released her lips and gave her a rare, warm smile as he tucked a lock of her hair behind her ear.

“And I do want to see you first thing in the morning when I wake up. So humor me and let’s sleep.” He admitted.

Without another word, his arm went up to rest on her waist to pull her closer to him in a light embrace.

Nami couldn’t help but feel warm at what he just said. She smiled and shifted much nearer to him; her head tucked under his chin, her own arm wrapping around his body so they were now pressed against each other—closer than they have ever been before.

She realized that for someone like Zoro, this kind of intimacy is already another step forward. And a step further away from his usually alone and reserved self.

She’ll take this as a win.  There’s no need to rush.

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

DEVIL WOMAN

One-shot #: 38

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T (Just some reeeally slight teasing & uh, flirting?)

Note: Late for Halloween but I still want to post something after being absent for long! I missed my babies! Enjoy this quick one-shot and happy Halloween everyone, belatedly!

Summary: His amusement at her expense was obliterated in an instant. And even in the darkened crow’s nest Nami eyes caught the way Zoro’s jaw clenched at that.

“Trick or treat?”

A blank look followed by one eyebrow rising up in question, then the sound of a rather exasperated intake of breath met her question.

“Well?” Nami prompted the figure in front of her to answer. Perched on the opening of the crow’s nest with both arms resting on the metal floor, she patiently (and cheekily) waited.

“Tch,” was the first thing that came out of Zoro’s mouth before it was covered by the rim of the booze bottle he was drinking from.

“None.” He finally uttered out before taking another swig of his drink.

A pout appeared on Nami’s lips. “Spoilsport,” she remarked as she pushed herself up and into the crow’s nest. She glanced around quickly, brows furrowing when she took in the fact that the lights were off and the green-haired man seems to be… just chilling in the dark.

“Why are you sitting here in the dark?” She can’t help but ask, a frown now pulling her lips down.

“Sets the mood.”

“Huh?” It was Nami’s turn to stare at him blankly. Well… his idea of fun does differ from hers. She shouldn’t be surprised at all.

The navigator had just returned on the ship straight from the party that was currently taking place in town center. The island where they docked have this festival where everyone was loitering to and fro, down the streets, wearing costumes of some sorts and knocking on all the house doors saying ‘trick or treat’ while holding a hollowed pumpkin head to be filled  treats and sweets.

Imagine the excitement it brought to their captain, Usopp and Chopper, especially when they found out from Robin that all the houses are obliged to give out confectioneries to those who will come a-knocking.

But Nami was more interested in donning a costume and frolicking in town to hunt for chumps she can easily take advantage of. Just imagine the belis she can rake and take home with her charms and assets in full force.

That was what this trick or treating is for her. Tricking the others so she can treat herself.

Deciding to go all out with a cheeky but sexy devil costume—complete with wings, cute horns, tail and all—she forgo the usual red ensemble and went for a black one for a more mysterious and alluring effect (Robin’s words and Nami definitely agrees), she headed out with her equally enthusiastic crewmates to the town to have a good trick or treating time.

Now she’s back at the Thousand Sunny because her scheme tonight turned out really successful that she had to deposit the bulk of her loot in the treasure chest in her room.

And it’s not even midnight!

She knew Zoro was on guard duty. The ever lazy swordsman had refrained from joining whatever craziness they planned on doing and instead decided for a more boring way to spend the rest of the night.

Namely stay up in the nest, in the dark and drink some booze before conking out.

That’s why Nami decided to climb up the nest to check on him, see if he’s sleeping his stupid ass off while on the job so she can berate him. Heaven knows she needs some sort of stimulant from all that lackluster interactions she has had so she can pick some pockets.

“Hhmm… well you seem to be… enjoying your night?” She asked in an overly sweet yet tinge with sarcasm tone, absolutely loving the way a scowl was starting to appear on Zoro’s face.

“I was,” was his curt reply as he eyed her disdainfully.

Nami’s insides fluttered in pleasure as she chortled. Look how irritated he was with her presence. She smiled in a sickeningly sweet way at him, letting him know that she is aware that he is annoyed that his quiet time was disturb… by her… of all people.

Recently, she had developed this habit of teasing him more than the usual. And not just the kind of teasing that often leads to the two of them bickering and shouting.

It was more… low-key. And feels kind of exclusive in a way that only the two of them knows what is happening. Like a secret language that only the two of them are privy to.

If Nami were to be honest, it’s teasing that is definitely crossing the line of flirting.

And she never passes on the opportunity to test that theory whenever she chance upon it.

Because in a very weird turn of events, Zoro seemed to tolerate it… and was actually reciprocating (this is just her assumption) in his own unrefined way.

Plus it also delights her so much when he gets irked at her antics but he never tries to stop her or even shut her down when they both knew he can.  

You could almost say that her assumptions were right on their marks.

She heard him clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth when she decided to approach him. Zoro was sitting on the nest’s floor, his back against the nest’s wooden bench. His white t-shirt was on the floor, along with his haramaki and katanas. She surmised that he probably did some training earlier and was now enjoying a drink as his downtime.

Just to spite him some more tonight, Nami plopped herself down beside him. She wanted to see what if she was right. See if Zoro will just put up with her presence and not send her down the nest so he could enjoy his solitude.

The black wing of her costume almost poked him in the face accidentally and he swatted it with his hand.

“You could blind someone with that,” he complained as he flicked the wing’s sharp edge.

Nami just gave him a toothy grin before retorting.

“Well I’ve got nothing to worry about,” she gestured at his left eye, childishly sticking her tongue out at him.

Zoro just scoffed. “You just can’t leave me in peace?”

A cackle escaped her.  “Your life is boring as it is. You need me to spice it up.”

He snorted at that before taking a drink again.

Nami waited for a beat and fought a smile from appearing when Zoro did not bother complaining anymore nor and grumble incessantly about her leaving him alone.

“Why are you here in the dark?” She finally asked again, this time really wanting to satisfy her curiosity. They were sitting shoulder to shoulder, so close enough that she can feel that distinct coolness his skin takes on after sweating, a sure indication that he did work out while left alone in the ship.

“What’s it to you?” He drawled as he held up the bottle he was drinking from to his eye level, checking to see how much is left before he move to the next one.

“Tch,” Nami sighed. “Don’t be difficult.”

His skin rubbed softly against her when he took a deep breath, the sensation sending sparks

under and over her own, making their way up her neck and Nami fought the urge to shudder when she felt her cheeks grow warm.

“Told you it sets the mood,” he repeated what he said earlier. “For some quiet.”

Nami nodded, understanding his need for it since he meditates after his work-outs.

“Plus,” Zoro tipped the bottle towards the windows in front of them, gesturing for her to take a look. “You can’t appreciate all that with the lights on.”

Nami’s shifted her gaze to where he indicated. Her eyes widened when she realized that the crow’s nest have a great vantage point of the island’s curving end against the star splattered sky.

“Oh,” she murmured softly before pushing herself up to get closer to the window. Kneeling on the bench under it, she took in the breath-taking view before her. There were dozens of tiny lights sprinkled randomly against the island’s shadowy profile. They sparkled and hovered randomly but that didn’t undermine the beauty of the night sky, it heightened it some more.

Everything just looked like thousand sparkling jewels. Glittering. Twinkling.

So that is what Zoro was enjoying alone in the crows’ nest, post-work out and with a drink?

She got to hand it to him… he knows how to really relax his lazy ass.

And also appreciate a beautiful sight. Now that was surprising.

Nami turned her head towards him and watched as he guzzled out the remaining alcohol in his bottle.

Then he suddenly barked out a laugh that Nami thought sounded somehow… condescending.

He grinned amusedly when he saw her looking at him. “Suits you.” He suddenly commented out of the blue.

“What?” Nami narrowed her eyes at him. She raised an eyebrow, already getting a hint that she is not going to like the point he was about to drive home.

“What you’re wearing,” Zoro pointed at her. “It suits you. Horns, tail and all.”

The orange-haired woman stared at him. Really stared at him like he had grown three heads. Did Zoro mean he liked…

Oh drat. He was probably making fun of how the devil costume suited her personality perfectly. Wasn’t he always saying, she’s gonna end up in hell even if he needs to drag her there?

A vein ticked on her forehead. And she seriously contemplated of poking him with her tail or her horn.

But she was still reeling from the tranquil view she was looking at and Nami decided that violence is not the answer tonight.

“Hmmm…” she hummed with a playful flick of her long hair. She deliberately tossed Zoro a seductive look. “Of course it suits me.”

“After all, hell needs to have someone beautiful in it if you’re gonna rule it.” Nami declared sassily before throwing him a kiss.

His amusement at her expense was obliterated in an instant. And even in the darkened crow’s nest Nami eyes caught the way Zoro’s jaw clenched at that.

The navigator smirked. Oh she won this round. Easy, peasy.

But the stubborn swordsman still have one last fight in him.

“You could’ve also gone for a witch,” Zoro tried to recover, folding his arms over his chest, trying to save face and save his pride. “That suits you even better. Witch!” He sneered at the thrown insult he always uses for her.

“Ah, ah, ah.” Nami wagged a finger at him. She got off the bench and sauntered back to him. Her steps light… almost like she’s bouncing in glee.

She stopped just right in front of Zoro, mischievously looking down on him.

“Stop before you hurt yourself some more,” she impishly advised knowing the green-haired man will still try to take her on the battle of wills and words.

Zoro drew back a little and eyed her suspiciously. Nami leaned down, bringing her face closer to his, one finger sliding under his chin, to tilt his head up some more so they could look at each other eye to eye. Her lips almost touching his, he can feel them as they move.

“Besides who better to accompany the king of hell than the devil herself?"

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

THE ART OF BEING SUBTLE

One-shot #: 37

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: I just wanted some ZoNa as seen through Usopp’s eyes. I love how he’s close to both of them.I swear he’s probably, possibly one of the first to notice if something is up with them. It’s just cute to think.

Summary: Things will definitely be more interesting from here on, ne?

It was subtle.

So subtle you will never really notice it… especially if you are not paying any attention.

Which most of the time is what happens because honestly, who would even think that something like that is happening between two of the most hard-headed individuals you ever came across the Grand Line and even in the New World?

Yes they are friends, but not really the makes-your-heart-warm type. Theirs is more… complicated—for the lack of word. Plus it does seem like irritation is the key component of their relationship.

Also there is that distance… that certain reservedness between them. Kind of like a safe space that the two seemed to inadvertently placed in the middle that neither one would deliberately try to step foot on.

But despite that, when push comes to shove… they always have each other’s backs.

In a way that makes it alright.

One fine day of sailing along the New World sea, while everything around them was quiet and calm (no marines or pirate enemy on their tail, no sea kings attacking, nothing) and the Thousand Sunny was smoothly gliding above the water heading towards their next destination…

…something in Usopp’s perception regarding his two friends changed.

He was playing a game of catch along with Luffy and Chopper on the lawn deck. They were all being boisterous, more than the usual, as if they are trying to make up for the day’s tranquillity.

They were tossing the ball up and running around, catching it and tossing it up again as they chased each other back and forth on the whole expanse of the deck.

The trio were momentarily distracted when the galley’s door opened and out step Sanji at the same time Zoro descended down from the crow’s nest.

Usopp groaned inwardly. He was having so much fun playing around and he’s really not in the mood for another squabble between the two-thirds of the monster trio.

Thankfully both seemed preoccupied with their respective thoughts and they just ignored each other, as Sanji headed towards where the aquarium hatch is, earning a sigh of relief from Usopp. Thank heavens for that!

Good thing too that Luffy managed to snag the green-haired man’s attention. The rubber captain immediately bounded towards the swordsman when he saw him. Usopp absent-mindedly threw the ball towards an eager Chopper, who shifted to his heavy point to catch it before instantly reverting back to his usual tiny form.

He called out to Luffy to get his attention. Their ever-juvenile captain was obviously pestering the taller man to play with them. And based from the way Luffy’s tone was reaching a rather whiny pitch (and also from the way Zoro was now looking totally irritated), it was a lost cause. 

Usopp called out to Luffy again and as if on cue, Chopper threw the ball towards him. Luffy immediately laughed, his attention shifting away from Zoro and in one swift move, he stretched his arm to meet the ball halfway… with enough force like he was about to sucker punch one of their enemies.

Suddenly Zoro nudged Luffy’s shoulder with his own. Not too much but just enough to make Luffy turn his attention back to his friend, his gaze questioning. The younger man’s outstretched arm wobbled in the air slightly though that wasn’t enough to make him miss the ball. His closed fist still struck it, only with less force than before.

And right at that moment, Nami stepped out of the aquarium bar.

Usopp could swear everyone froze on the spot when she appeared.

Except for the ball.

It headed straight to her. Usopp can only squeeze his eyes shut as he braced himself for the unwanted impact.

Which never came—much to his disbelief. The ball ended up hitting the wall a few good inches from her.

Nami let out a loud shriek from surprise and glared icily at them before proceeding to kick the ball which has rolled down the grassy deck.

The trio let out a disappointed cry when the ball went overboard, falling down the water below.

Nami silenced them with a scowl, huffing angrily before she marched away from them. Usopp was thanking his lucky stars that she didn’t resort to physical violence or even financial.

Though he clearly doubted if they really got away from the latter.

“Why is she mad,” Luffy complained with a pout, a tad disheartened at the loss of their ball. “It didn’t hit her.”

“But it almost did!” Chopper said with a hint of fear in his tone.

“Still it didn’t,” Luffy argued, a bit stubbornly.

“Yeah it didn’t,” Usopp mumbled, “Luckily.” He shot a quick glance at Zoro who had walked away from them to head to the men’s quarters while Nami was busy giving them her death glare. 

Usopp can tell that that ball would definitely hit Nami face first… if Zoro didn’t pushed Luffy earlier like he did.

Talk about good timing.

Then he stopped and blinked himself into a thought.

Nope that definitely wasn’t just good timing.

No one knew that Nami was in the aquarium bar, and certainly no one had known that she’ll be exiting it right when Luffy smacked the ball towards that direction.

Yet Zoro already bumped Luffy even before he hit the ball, effectively derailing its path and diminishing it strength, preventing it from hitting Nami.

And saving her.

Usopp blinked again.

Saved her in one swift and subtle movement. Huh.

Usopp scratched at his cheek.

------------------------

From that point on Usopp decided to train his watchful eyes on Zoro and Nami, observing their daily interactions attentively and inconspicuously.

True enough, their disagreements had dwindled down after their two-year separation and astonishingly, it continued to do so the further they sailed into the New World.

He’d sometimes see them quietly talking to each other on one side of ship or at the far corner of whatever island they are currently on, instead of having their usual loud interactions (that definitely includes yelling and fighting). They still engage in their good, old bickering sometimes but not as often as they used to.

And that was when he noted that there were a lot of subtle things the swordsman was doing to keep Nami out of harm’s way.

It was just small little things. Just tiny things. Things that can just be overlooked.

It was so unnoticeable… that not even Nami or the whole crew was aware of it.

Unless you pay really, really close attention.

Like what Usopp was currently doing.

He once saw the green-haired man casually moving her cup of hot tea a few inches away to the side before her elbow can hit it and the steaming liquid inside spills on her.

And Nami never realized what Zoro did.

There was one time when they docked on an unruly island filled with shady people and equally shady pirates and Zoro kept bumping and nudging her so she’d change directions while they were walking. Usopp later realized that he was moving her out of the reach of the bounty hunters who were persistently following her.

Though that instance actually ended up in a violent shouting match between the two because Nami finally snapped from all that pushing. She even summoned Zeus, his lightning fully-charged, intent on unleashing it at Zoro.

The bounty hunters that were targeting her decided to high-tail it out of there instead of getting caught in the crossfire between the two terrifying pirates. No one wants to mess with the totally vexed woman, armed with a weapon that can jolt the life out of them. Nor do they want to face off with an equally annoyed swordsman with three katanas who they now realized was the fabled pirate hunter Zoro.

There was also a time that Zoro deliberately knocked down Nami’s beer mug thrice while they were all out eating and drinking in a rather seedy bar because it he knew it had been tampered.

That also resulted in another shouting match. This time with belis and debts involve along with some throttling.

Usopp didn’t need to mention the times when Zoro helps her out with shopping and carrying their groceries and stocks without being told or forced to. Which Usopp also realized, kind of happens a lot as of late.

And in all these occurrences… Nami remained oblivious.

And Usopp had to freaking stop himself from knocking her on the head because it was really goddamned obvious what was actually happening.   

Once, they decided to camp by the beach of an uninhabited island. They settled around the fire that the boys enthusiastically made as Robin was about to narrate these amazing ghost stories from her newest book. Usopp quietly observed at the corner of his eye that Zoro strategically sat near Nami, knowing she’d definitely shift closer to him once she gets scared.

Usopp did the same. He deliberately sat near Zoro—on his other side, to be exact—in case he also gets scared and needed comfort.

All these were subtly done. Very subtly done, that no one had an inkling that it was happening at all.

But Usopp does. And he continued to watch and observe and wonder how long will it actually take Nami to figure it all out.

------------------------

Dinner was as usual chaotic, with a lot of laughing, talking and even yelling as they tried to get their fill of their cook’s delectable dinner dishes.

Usopp chewed on his food slowly yet with gusto as he eyed his crewmates, especially those who were at the other end of the table.

Nami had just entered the kitchen and Luffy accidentally barreled into her while running away from Sanji with a stolen plate of newly-cooked meat. Their captain shouted a quick apology to her before hurriedly bounding towards his seat at the head of the table before she can even hit him.

The blond chef was automatically at his tail, yelling expletives at the younger man about stealing food and hurting his Nami-swan.

If Usopp was not mistaken, Nami had been charting her maps all day. He hadn’t seen her since breakfast and she did have smudges of blank ink on her hands and fingers.

Grumbling and promising hell to their captain later after dinner, Nami bent down to retrieved the eyeglasses that she dropped when Luffy bumped into her.

Usopp instantly knew that the orange-haired navigator miscalculated her position. Nami was near the edge of the table when she bent down and had moved closer to it, as her glasses had fallen a bit farther under the table. He can hear her muttering something about Luffy paying for a new pair if her glasses where damage from his idiocy.

If she lifts her head up…

The sniper paused on his chewing, his eyebrows lifting up, when he saw the swift yet subtle way Zoro’s hand move to position itself at the table’s pointed corner, grasping it and effectively covering it.  He had done it so casually while still keeping his attention fixed on what Chopper was explaining to him, that the movement was barely noticeable at all.

When Nami finally raised her head and was about to stand up, her forehead hit Zoro's knuckles. A quick flare of temper showed on her face and she glared irritably at the man before her as she straightened up. Zoro looked unfazed and didn’t bother looking at her direction.

Nami continued to stare daggers at him for a few seconds before a confused look crossed her features.

Usopp watched her intently as she took in Zoro’s hand at the corner of the table and why it was there.

Then her hand went up to touch her forehead.

In his mind’s eye, Usopp was nodding his approval at the turn of the events.

Nami must have realized that if it wasn't for Zoro's hand, she would definitely be sporting a large bump on her forehead or worse…

…the dining table’s sharp edge would have caused a bleeding wound that would send her directly to Chopper’s office.  .

Usopp continued looking at her, as she in turn continued staring at Zoro.

Her brown eyes suddenly widened as realization dawned onto her.

Well, looks like she finally caught on.

Things will definitely be more interesting from here on, ne?

[eirist]

All Wrapped Up

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T (Just a lit-tle suggestive)

Note: This was supposed to be an entry for the ZoNa Holiday Events at Tumblr and a holiday fic (would have checked Prompt #1 – Christmas Party and #8 – Red Lipstick) but it didn’t make it. Still, I want to get this out there even though it’s 2024 already and January’s about to end.

Also this is a companion fic to The Cat Burglar and As It Was one-shots. Set in the same AU. Because I adore that AU. First ZoNa fic for 2024 so enjoy the craziness!

Summary: His answer was a simple yes. And gave her that smile that never fails to steal her breath away.

Sparkling.

Everything and everywhere is freaking sparkling.

From the snowflakes and ornaments hanging from above, the wiry white branches lining the hallway, the garlands wound around the stairs, the Christmas wreaths peppering the walls, the table centerpieces and candles… and of course, the huge Christmas tree in the middle of the room where the party is held.

Everything she set her eyes on is absolutely glittering…

…and white. Did she mention white? Freaking pristine white.

It was like the place was snowed in overnight. And that snow settled in a kind of aesthetic way that it made the place look enchanting just like inside a fantasy winter palace.

“So…” a voice suddenly spoke up beside her, pulling Nami out of her entrancement. “Is this what it feels like to be inside a snow globe?” Usopp remarked as he observed the scene before him with a grimace, handing Nami a tall glass of—yes, no surprises with that— sparkling wine.

“Thanks,” Nami smiled as she took it from him. “You know, I actually thought I died and gone to heaven when I walked in,” she muttered as her eyes followed a heavily-jewelled matron who strode past them. “Everything is just fucking white and sparkling.”

A snort of laughter escaped Usopp. “You? In heaven?”

She narrowed her eyes at him knowing where his comment is heading.

“I highly doubt that that’s where you’ll go,” Usopp teased. “You’re too evil.”

“Shut up.” Nami smacked him on the shoulder. “Don’t you have to play nice or you won’t get any gifts from the fat, red man?”

“His name is Santa Claus! Don’t be ignorant!” Usopp countered, wincing as he rubbed his shoulder. “And compared to you, I am absolutely nice! I’ll definitely get a gift from him.”

She raised an eyebrow at that. It amazes her that even as an adult Usopp still believes in fairy tales and some guy who—for the life of her, she doesn’t really understand how—slides inside chimneys while everyone else is sleeping to leave gifts under the Christmas trees for nice children.

He really should stop hanging around their genius yet childish doctor.

“Speaking of gifts,” she decided to change the subject, sending a bright smile to his direction. “Where’s mine?” She held out her hand as Usopp frowned at her crassness.

“I left it in Chopper’s office,” he said with a roll of his eyes. “I’m not gonna mingle around tonight with it in my pocket you know.”

Nami squealed in delight and Usopp cringed when he realized his tongue slipped and gave her an idea on what his present is.

It was no secret that the orange-haired woman absolutely loves gifts. She made that fact pretty clear a lot of times.

Especially if said gifts were as sparkly and shiny as the lights decorating the entire manor right now.

Usopp was watching her with a dour expression on his face.

She patted his shoulder in an appeasing manner. “Oh don’t worry. I also got you a gift.” She winked at him as his face lit up with excitement.

“Really?!” This time it was his turn to squeal in delight.

Nami looked smug as she took a sip of her drink. “I’m fair after all. Plus in the spirit of Christmas, I decided to be more generous this year.”

“Wooow!” Usopp was looking at her disbelievingly. “I guess miracles do happen! I honestly thought you’d just cut-off a small percentage of my so-called debt to you just like you did last year.”

“Don’t make me change my mind Usopp. I can still do that.”

“Oh come on! Don’t be stingy! Everyone knows you got a big, fat bonus from that stealing stint last time!”

Nami pointed a finger at him. “Hey! You also got the same big, fat bonus! We’re in that stint together!”

Two months ago the two of them (along with Robin, Franky and Brook), pulled off a rather daring heist in an underground auction hosted by the one and only Buggy the Clown—the weird owner and head of Buggy’s Delivery; an organization that prides itself in acquiring hard to find artifacts and treasures of the old from different parts of the world to sell it to the highest bidder in a hush-hush, private event.

Robin was able to secure an invitation to the clown’s auction, following a tip that Buggy recently obtained some priceless items which belonged to Gol D. Roger himself.

They knew they needed to get their hands on those treasures as soon as possible.

And get their hands on it they did.

Nami can still recall that feeling of elation as they drove away from Buggy’s circus-inspired villa with all the priceless auction items in tow—much to the consternation and shock of Buggy himself. He wasn’t able to chase them as they had a good head start before he and his minions realized what had happened.

Thus they all got a damn big bonus for a job well-done. Not everyone can pull off a feat like that. But with a brilliant team like theirs… it was a walk in the park.

It was really a damn great decision to join them. Not only was she living lavishly now, but she was also enjoying her stealing assignments so much more than before.

A few years ago, Nami had stolen a relic in the Mugiwara estate from right under Usopp’s nose. Back then, she was working alone and Usopp was in charge of the whole estate’s security.

He and his team was no match for her. Nami was able to breach their safeguards and easily sneak into the estate and get her hands on the priceless item. It was almost like stealing candies from babies, she can’t even call it a challenge.

Then Straw Hat Luffy—the head of the Mugiwara Family—sent Roronoa Zoro, one of his top men, to track her down.

Nami honestly thought that that was the end for her when she saw him sitting on one of the booths of her then empty bar, silently and patiently biding his time.

But Zoro’s orders that night, was just find her…

…and apparently take her back with him to the estate.

Thank her lucky stars he wasn’t there to maim her. She definitely knows she’s no match for him. Still, Nami did not make it easy for Zoro to do his job. She made him chase after her for a good half an hour all around the town until he finally lost his patience and showed her first-hand just why he was Mugiwara no Luffy’s right-hand man.

To say he hauled her back with him like he was just carrying a sack of potatoes was an understatement.

Her addition to Luffy’s elite circle was unexpected—as unexpected as his invitation to her to join his group. It wasn’t a calculated decision on his part (like he’s actually capable of that). Luffy just felt that it was right to invite her. Plus her skills are really awesome (he said it with eyes lighting up in excitement while laughing at Usopp’s expense) and he was really impressed with how she was able to sneak into the estate and steal something.

It may have been an arbitrary whim on Luffy’s part, but it was Nico Robin who pointed out to everyone that it would benefit them so much more if Nami is with them instead of an adversary that they had to deal with every now and then.

“Her thieving skills are unmatched. Her moniker, true to its words. Also she is not just a cat burglar,” Robin had explained with a rather fascinated smile on her face. “Nami is also an exceptional cartographer and an excellent navigator. Very useful when it comes to treasure hunting, don’t you all think?” She posed the question to everyone present, her blue eyes almost sparkling with mirth. “She’ll make a fine addition to our group.”

Nami was stunned at tall and elegant woman’s knowledge about her and her skills. She later found out that Robin is an archaeologist and a treasure trove of information. She actually has an archive of who’s who in the criminal world—be it a big or small name. And Nami’s name was already included in it. Robin also makes it her business to know every person and organization who is interested in anything and everything related to Gol D. Roger and his treasures.

Zoro and Usopp are the only ones who were adamantly opposed to her joining. The former because he doesn’t trust her and claims that she would be nothing but trouble. The latter because his pride took a battering when she had stolen the priceless relic he was ordered to guard with his life.

But they had to relent when Luffy put his foot down.

And Nami had no choice but to concede too, because she knows she would not fare well as their enemy… especially if they sent out Roronoa Zoro after her. 

Her thoughts suddenly shifted to the grouchy, green-haired man and her eyes automatically roamed the expanse of the party and the guests. She hadn’t seen him ever since she arrived.

He’s probably lost again. She thought wryly. Or going around in circles on the estate grounds.

Zoro might be exceptional when it comes to fighting, but definitely hopeless when it comes to directions. He would get lost in a straight line and will confuse north and south and left and right. It was completely frustrating.

Nami felt Usopp nudged her with his shoulder to get her attention. She gave him a glance and saw that he was pointing at one of the guests who were clad with so much sparkling jewelries she almost put the Christmas tree lights to shame.

Usopp was wiggling his eyebrows at her, issuing a silent dare to Nami that she should be able to nick some of those by the end of the night.

She smirked haughtily, raising her glass slightly to take his challenge.

It had been easy to win Usopp over when she finally accepted Luffy’s offer. They had a lot in common and Nami realized they almost, always have the same wave length. It didn’t take long for them to get close, all previous transgression forgotten.

Most of the time, it was the two of them who works out the security and possible breaches of the estate along with Franky—if Nami wasn’t on a stealing stint or nose-buried into antique maps and charting.   

As much as Usopp had been an easy win. Zoro was the complete opposite.

He was harder to get close to. Harder to thaw. He was like a thick block of ice. Not to mention he has an inherent distrust to almost all the people he meets. That combination was enough to make him formidable.

He was quiet and calm; silently listening and observing and in most cases, he’s just… asleep.

Nami was astounded on how easily he could just nod off while they were having a meeting or going over the plans for a heist or an attack or even when they’re just randomly lounging about the manor. He just sits there, with arms crossed over that delectable chest of his then falls asleep, snoring like there was no tomorrow.

But what really surprised her was that even if he zoned out easily or looks like he’s not even paying attention… he was ever-alert and his reflexes are out of this world.

Once, she stealthily tried sneak up on him to pull at his ear for dozing off while she was in the middle of giving him the rundown of the plan for their current mission. He had been grating on her nerves ever since they arrive at the island of Dressrosa—no, scratch that—from the moment they started traveling to be exact, and a retaliation was definitely overdue.

The next thing she knew, he had her pinned down on the carpeted floor of the hotel room. She was looking up at him with wide eyes while he stared down at her with one eyebrow arrogantly cocked.

He drawled something about… she didn’t quite catch it because at that moment, the wind was knocked out of her and her heart was thumping madly against her chest, its thudding sound echoing loudly in her ears.

And all her brain could register is how good Zoro feels above her.

From that moment on, Nami wanted more of him.

They stared at each other for a good few seconds as Nami swallowed the lump that somehow formed at her throat as his steely grey eye regarded her intensely. 

Though what happened next was far from charming. Bastard didn’t even bother helping her stand up. Zoro just pushed himself up and away from her with a scoff and casually walked towards the door to exit the room as Nami scrambled to get back on her feet. Out of frustration, she threw her red stiletto heel at his head.

Looking back, she honestly thinks that that was what chipped the ice. Because when Zoro swiveled around after her shoe hit his head and marched back towards her direction, a vein was visibly popping in his forehead and he was looking mad as hell. It was the first time she had seen that expression on him.

She should’ve been afraid at that moment. But in a mixture of infuriation and embarrassment (from being pinned down the floor or from her improper thoughts about the green-haired man or both)—Nami folded her arms across her chest and met his flaring temper head on.

Their shouting match in that room was one for the books. Not to mention, they almost blew their supposed mission that day because they can’t stop arguing.

That was the start of the never-ending quarrels and quips between the two of them that drove everyone around them crazy. It was an unspoken rule to everyone in the estate that when Zoro and Nami start firing words at each other, it’s better to high-tail it out of there than get caught in the crossfire. 

It was around that time that Nami realized that Zoro wasn’t really all cold and aloof like she first thought. Most of the time he appeared like he doesn’t give a damn because he was just too freaking lazy to care.

His usually reserved countenance was most likely because he was the kind of person to assess the situation first before reacting. He prefers to see the whole picture before efficiently dealing with whatever it is that comes one by one. He kept a cool head in most circumstances yet can still easily lose his temper especially when she one ups him (or if Sanji-kun was deliberately pissing him off).

It had become a bad habit of Nami to rile him up as much as she can. Because in a weird and twisted way, she loves how expressive his face can be when he is fighting with her.

The longer Nami stayed at Luffy’s group, the more she came to know Zoro deeper. 

Their enemies feared him. Everyone in their group and their members have high respect for him. He was actually one of the very few people that can rein their boss in because Luffy actually listens to him. 

As much as he was known to be ruthless and emotionless by the other mob families, he is quite the opposite when it comes to his friends and other selected associates.

She saw how he was with Luffy, Usopp and Chopper. Sometimes when he deals with them, his lone grey eye would go soft and there was this air of fondness and this certain amused smile on his face that she never thought he was capable of doing.

It stole her breath away. And made her see him in another light.

She’d do anything to be at the receiving end of that smile.  

“A pricey jewelry for your thoughts?” Usopp’s playful tone suddenly permeated her thoughts.

“Huh?” Nami snapped back to reality at the sound of her long-nosed friend’s voice.

Usopp peered at her face. “Are you alright? You just like zoned out.” His gaze traced the path where Nami was blankly looking. “Find something interesting out there?”

Nami shook her head. “Nah, just thinking.”

“You better be thinking on how you’ll steal some of those sparkly jewelries from that woman and that woman,” Usopp sniggered, tilting his head toward the direction of the bejewelled women he was pertaining too.

She raised an eyebrow at him. “Are you underestimating me?”

“Of course not!” Usopp said as he downed the last of his drink. “Actually… hmm… there is a betting pool.” He said muttered while pretending to scratch his chin.

“What do you mean there is a betting pool?”

Usopp took a step back from her realizing his mistake. He shouldn’t have said that.

Before he can take another step back, Nami suddenly grabbed his tie to the point of choking him.

“What’s the bet?” Nami growled. She was quick to grasp the meaning of what he was saying. She was quite familiar that the some of the lower ranked members usually indulges themselves with betting pools for their own entertainment. It was an easy way to win money after all. Sometimes even higher officials like her, Usopp, Franky or Brook would join.

But she wasn’t aware that there is an ongoing bet tonight.

Nami shook the curly-haired lad to urge him to give an answer.

“Come on Usopp don’t make this hard. What’s the bet?”

“Uuuhmm…. how much you’ll be able to steal tonight?”

Nami scowled and she narrowed her eyes at him. “Tell me more!”

“Eeep! That’s just it! I shouldn’t have told you! It’s not even my idea—” He struggled to explain and get out of her grasp at the same time. “I mean we can split!”

“Split?” Nami’s face darkened at that.

“Yeah!” Usopp nodded vigorously. “The pot is high!”

“How high?!”

“Ara… here you both are.”

Nami and Usopp whipped their heads toward the direction of the voice. Robin was approaching them looking all elegant in a shimmery white gown. Her long black hair was arranged in a sophisticated coiffure behind her head and she was holding a wine glass half-filled with one of the vintage reds from the manor’s cellar that she adores.

“Robin!” Nami exclaimed, completely forgetting about Usopp and releasing him from her clutches. She bounded happily towards the tall woman and enveloped her in a hug. “You’re back!”

“Ro-bin!” Usopp also greeted as he cleared his throat and adjusted his tie. “Good to see you here! Thought you wouldn’t make it tonight?”

Robin, Franky and Brook had an important errand in the island of Baldimore. They went there to finalize a deal with one of their important associates before the year ends. As the place was quite far, everyone was thinking the trio wouldn’t make it back in for the party.

But apparently they did.

“Fufufu…” Robin laughed softly. “Well Franky and Brook were adamant to make it back. They don’t want to miss this party.” She motioned to the far corner of the room below where a tall, lanky figure with afro hair was already sitting behind the grand piano, playing Christmas tunes. “It’s a must-attend event after all.”

“I thought the New Year party is the must-attend event?” Usopp’s brows furrowed.

“Both are,” Robin said with a smile. “You know how the three brothers are always in a high festive mood whenever the holidays approach.”

Both Nami and Usopp nodded in understanding. With both of Luffy’s brothers, Ace and Sabo, spending the season at Mugiwara estate, the celebration had been all out. Spare no expense was Luffy’s exact words. Well actually the three brothers’ exact words. Because Ace and Luffy absolutely love throwing parties and Sabo… well it’s two against one, he had no choice but to agree.

And this was only the Christmas Party. Another party will be held on New Year’s Eve and Nami can’t wait to see how extravagant that one’s going to be.

Not to mention how many glittering stuff she’ll be able to filch from their filthy rich guests by the turn of the year.

“Well,” Usopp let out an exasperated sigh. “It’s gonna be a lot of work from here on.”

Robin nodded. “I’m surprised you are even out here. I thought you’d be personally manning the security tonight?”

Usopp looked crestfallen. “Aaw, gimme a break Robin. Our security team’s the best! With Franky and I’s newly updated surveillance equipment, not even a fly would get past the fence!”

The archaeologist gave Nami a side glance which Usopp caught.

“Hey! We personally asked Nami to do practice runs to check the system’s efficiency.” Usopp explained, folding his arms across his chest, looking smug and proud.

Nami laughed. “That they did.”

Robin chuckled. “So how was it?” She directed the question towards the orange-haired woman.

“Quite a challenge actually,” Nami admitted, pursing her lips. “But give me some time to figure out something and I’ll be able to sneak past all that, get inside here and steal anything from right under Usopp’s nose. Again.”

“Hey!” Usopp lightly slapped her arm. “I thought we’re friends now!”

Nami blinked innocently at him. “Yes we are. But you’ll never know how effective that surveillance system is until we give it a serious try right?”

“Well, she does have a point Usopp,” Robin agreed. “Maybe a surprise break-in one of these days?” She suggested, her tone light with amusement. “Franky will surely love that challenge.”

“I won’t...” Usopp mumbled.

Nami rolled her eyes at him. “I’m pretty sure that’ll give you and Franky the opportunity to request for new tech stuff again.”

Usopp straightened up at that. “Well that idea I definitely love!”

“So all set,” Nami flashed him a smile. “Once the holidays are over, expect something will happen. I’m already giving you a handicap.”

Usopp knitted his brows at her. “What handicap?”

“Once the holidays are over,” Nami repeated. A Cheshire cat-like grin appeared on her face. “Come on, that’s enough clue right? It’s a surprise break-in after all.”

Now Usopp was looking at her with eyes narrowed. Then he turned to Robin. “I’m blaming this on you.”

Robin just gave him a mysterious smile. “It’s settled then. I’m looking forward to the chaos it’ll bring.”

“Wait hold up!” Usopp raised his hand. “Are we not telling everyone about it?”

“Where’s the fun in that if you do?” Nami asked in a bored tone.

“But…”

“We’ll inform Luffy and the others.” Robin took a sip of her wine before continuing. “Only our team will know. It’ll be the perfect incident response exercise for the rest don’t you think?”

Usopp was looking at her with mouth agape. “Where do you even get these ideas?” He paused for a moment and huffed. “Oh right… Franky.”

The corners of Robin’s eyes crinkled in amusement.

“Anyway, Luffy did call for a meeting before the party starts right?” Robin signalled to one of the meandering servers who‘s balancing a tray of beverages on his hand. She took the empty glass from Nami’s hand and replaced it with a champagne flute. The she got another, this time

low ball glass with a really expensive whiskey inside and placed it in Nami’s free hand.

Nami stared quizzically at the drinks.

Robin thanked the server politely as he moved away from them. “I think it’s time to head up now,” she proposed.

Usopp glanced at his watch. “Well, we better…”

“Can you go find Zoro, Nami?” The raven-haired woman requested.

“Me?” Nami blinked up at her. Then, she looked back at the glasses she was holding. Oh fuck that. That was why Robin handed her the whiskey. She frowned at her and Robin just smiled.

“You’re the only one who can easily drag him to these meetings. And he really needs to be there.” Robin’s tone had shifted and Nami noted that there must be something important to discuss if Zoro’s presence at the meeting is imperative.

But still she groaned her complaint. “Do I really have too?”

“Yes. Please.”

“Why not Usopp?” “Why me?” Usopp retorted. “Zoro will just threaten me into leaving him alone and you know I will always cave in. You on the other hand, don’t. So carry on!” He made a shooing gesture with his hand.

Nami childishly stuck her tongue out at him.

“Last I saw him he was heading towards the west wing.” Robin offered. “He’s probably still there.”

“Believe me he’s not going anywhere once he’s in that area,” Nami muttered under her breath. The manor’s west wing had like a dozen rooms. It was Zoro’s favourite hiding place whenever there is a party and he wants some peace and quiet. Plus that area is off limits to party guests, there are even assigned guards at its entryway.

“Fine.” She conceded albeit sulkily, glancing at the drinks in her hand. “I’m gonna drag his ass upstairs.”

“Thank you.” Robin murmured as Nami sullenly shuffled away to do what she was asked. She was still within earshot when she heard Usopp say to Robin,  

“Hey about the betting pool…”

“I heard that!” Nami snapped as she spun around and marched back towards them. “And I demand to know what the hell that is! Don’t you dare think I forgot about that Usopp!”

Robin curiously raised an eyebrow at her before looking back at Usopp.

Said man stiffened under her gaze.

“Sorry!” Usopp sheepishly apologized to Robin with a nervous laugh. “It just slipped. I must’ve told her something.”

“What’s that all about?!” Nami inquired, her eyes shifting back and forth between the two of them. “You said something about it earlier Usopp!”

Robin just shrugged nonchalantly. “Everyone just makes bets.”

“Wait, everyone?” Nami repeated. “Like everyone bets and the winner takes all? How come I didn’t know of this! Are in this too Robin?”

Robin just replied with a chuckle. “Well you’d most likely try to rig the game so you can split the win.” She explained not confirming the answer to Nami’s question if she was involved in it too.

Nami’s eyes widened when she realized that she is. “I can’t believe you Robin! But yeah you’re right I’d definitely rig the game! Wait,” she diverted her attention to Usopp. “So that’s why you brought it up Usopp! You’re planning to strike a deal with me!” She announced in a sickeningly sweet, sugary voice.

“That’s cheating.” Robin commented coolly.

“Hey no! It just slipped out of my mouth alright?”

“You said something about splitting the win,” Nami pointed out.

Both women are looking at him unconvincingly. Usopp was known for having a flair for lying, which is surprisingly effective to most people outside their circle.

“Only because you were gripping my tie to the point of throttling me!” Usopp retorted. “Besides like you’d really agree to split fifty-fifty  Nami. It’s gonna be more like fifty-none!”

“That is definitely correct.” Robin agreed with a soft laugh

“Of course!” Nami stated haughtily. “Why would I split evenly? How long has this been going on anyway?”

“Uhh… around mid-year last year…” Usopp replied.

“What?! That long?”

“Uh-huh.”

“I’m pretty sure a lot of you are like a thousand belis richer now because of me?” Nami was looking pure evil right now. She tossed back the champagne she was still holding in one go and casually placed it on the tray of a passing server.  “I’m definitely taking percentages!”

“Oh hey I always lost!” Usopp held up his hands in mock surrender. “So no thank you. You will not be taking any money from me.”

“I haven’t really won,” Robin said with a smile. “Sorry. I’m up against those with uncanny luck in gambling.”

Nami blew at her bangs exasperatedly. “Okay then. Who do I have to extort?”

Robin and Usopp glanced at each other and without waiting for a beat they both answered.

“Zoro.”

“That idiot!” Nami growled. So he was on it too! She can’t believe it! And he was getting richer from making bets about her and he did not even have the gall to tell her? She was gripping the remaining glass on her hand a little too tightly.

“Whoa easy!” Usopp tried to pacify her, seeing that cracks were about to form on the glass. “But yeah if you are gonna extort someone, it’s him. He like won almost every betting pool. That’s roughly about a hundred thousand belis now.”

Robin just arched her perfectly shaped eyebrows when Usopp threw Zoro under the mercy of a rather livid Nami. Money matters are in no way handled peacefully in the orange-haired woman’s books. She was willing to do almost anything for it. Robin had seen her break another man’s arm who idiotically tried to scam her before… accidentally though… or so Nami claims.

She swirled her wine slightly, watching it with slight fascination. But even more fascinating is what’s going to happen in the next few hours now that Nami finally found out about the betting pool that Brook, Franky and Usopp had actually started.

“Oooh that lazy, idiot moss-head. I swear I’m going to get every single beli he won from that stupid betting pool! With interest!”

Robin lifted her head up just in time to see Nami stomping away from them in purposeful strides, her high heels making an ominous clacking sound against the marbled floor as she made her way towards where Zoro possibly was. Usopp was waving his hand at her and cheering her on.

“Well this is definitely going to be a fun night,” Robin remarked, the corners of her eyes crinkling with mirth, before taking another sip of her wine. ------------------------

Unlike the other areas which were decorated with glittering lights and Christmas adornments, the manor’s west wing was totally devoid of anything festive. Only the warm chandelier lights lining the high curving ceiling illuminated the whole area.

The noise of the party grew faint the further Nami went forward and when she turned around the corner, everything fell silent. No music or party guests chatter or clinking glasses.  Not even the clacking sound of her heels can be heard as she continued along the now carpeted floor.

She grimaced at the task Robin cheekily sent her to do. She could swear the raven-haired women had something up her sleeve for she had seen a particular twinkle in her eyes like she knew something that was supposed to be a secret.

Nami stopped walking and took a deep breath. She kind of… have an inkling to what it was that Robin knew.

But first things, first…

She tapped her foot while pondering. It irked her a bit that the soft fabric underneath her shoes prevented her from hearing the sound her foot should be making.

If everything was silent in this area then definitely the drifting moss head had gone into hiding in one of these many rooms.

Nami did a double take when she realized she was still holding the glass Robin handed her earlier. With a shrug of her shoulders, she lifted the glass to her lips to taste the deep gold liquid. It would be a waste not to drink it.

She needs it much more than Zoro do.

Mmmm… that hits the spot. Nami mused, nodding her approval as she felt the familiar sensation of the liquor warming up her throat and cheeks. Licking her lips, she studied the red lipstick mark she left on the glass.

She made a mental note to grab more of these once she gets back to the party.

After she finds Zoro.

And where could he be? She is not really looking forward to searching all the rooms of the floor for him.

Nami strained her ears to listen if there was any sound of thunderous snoring coming from one of the rooms. Hearing nothing, she strolled forward, glancing left and right.

“He better be in here somewhere,” she muttered to herself. Because there is no way in hell that she’d try to look for him outside the estate grounds on this cold night. They could do without him in the meeting. They have too. Someone can just fill him in with whatever he was going to miss.

“What are you doing skulking around here like a thief?”

Nami whirled around instantly at that. She wasn’t surprised to see the person she was looking for, casually leaning against the now open doorway of one of the rooms she already passed. Zoro’s arms were folded across his chest, one eyebrow raised in inquiry as he regarded at her.

She just snorted at his accusation and fought the urge to remind him that she was indeed a thief… in case his stupid, sexy ass had forgotten about it.

But she just let it slide, and took another sip from the glass in her hand before approaching him.

“I’m skulking around because I’m looking for you. Robin told me to bring you upstairs, your presence is required at the meeting oh snarky one.”

Zoro just scoffed and pushed himself away from the doorway. Without another word, he went back inside the totally dark room where he was obviously ‘stealthily lounging’.

Nami followed suit. So he had holed himself up in one of the many rooms that served as an office library. From the looks of this one, no Mugiwara was using it because the place was still tidy. No books, open and unopened, were occupying the antique writing desk. No papers strewn everywhere, crumpled or not. No pens or mugs and glasses half-filled with coffee, tea, water or any alcoholic beverage. There are no missing books in the shelves. No diagrams, floor plans or maps posted and hanging on the walls, windows or on any available flat surface.

There was none of the signature chaos that takes over the room once someone from their team uses it.

Well, unless of course Zoro had already staked his claim on this room and was using it as his personal sleeping quarter-slash-hideout.

“What are you doing in here alone in the dark Zoro?” Nami asked, using the exact same tone he used when he questioned her earlier as she closed the door. “Hiding from someone? Or from everyone?”

“Hmph.”

“Or are you waiting for someone?” Nami sing-songed as she approached him. Zoro was now leaning against the desk with his arms crossed over his chest again in an imposing manner. She deliberately brushed against him to reach out and switched the pricey vintage desk lamp beside him to illuminate the room.

His grey eye was following her movements. Watching. Waiting.

“I brought you a drink.” She handed him the liquor glass she still have on her hand.

She smirked when his face scrunched into a frown as he took it from her, scrutinizing the alcohol inside. “Sorry I had to take a taste.” She grinned cheekily at him.

Zoro stared at the glass. Her lipstick mark was still on the glass rim, the red smear a stark contrast against the gold liquid… same color as that on her devilishly smiling lips.

“I don’t mind,” he said lowly. He lifted the glass and deliberately drank right at the area where her lipstick mark was.

Nami did not fight the urge to bite her lower lip.

Well fuck. Isn’t that hot?

“You didn’t bring more?” Zoro asked with a smirk after he downed all the remaining whiskey in one go.

Nami laughed teasingly. “Oh you have to come out of your hiding place if you want more of that.”

The green-haired man chuckled, setting the glass on the desk.

“Guess I’ll settle with this for now.”

His hand instantly reached out and grabbed her by the nape, pushing her forward to him and capturing her lips with his.

Nami pressed herself against him straightaway. It was like her body had a mind of its own. It knew exactly what to do the moment Zoro’s lips settled on hers. Her arms automatically went around his neck, her head tilted to give him more access to her mouth, to deepen their kiss so he could taste more of her and she could taste more of him.

She melted in his arms when his tongue traced her lower lip slowly before teasingly giving it a soft bite. She practically purred in delight at his action. She likes it when he does that. It always sent shivers running down her spine and she can feel the heat from that playful nip spreading from her lips to every damn part of her. 

She clung to him when she felt his fingers trailing down the bare skin of her back, her body quivering deliciously against the sensation. Zoro’s hold on her nape tightened. She felt him inhaled sharply before almost devouring her in their kiss, his mouth dominating hers in a way that made Nami heady, hot and needy all at the same time.

Zoro in turn completely caged her to him by wrapping one arm around her waist. His hand on her nape slowly moved to tangle with her unbound tresses and Nami realized from the slight movements his body was making that he plans to…

She pulled away almost immediately. Zoro’s face scrunched into a displeased frown.

“What?” He asked gruffly, looking peeved that she stopped their kiss.

Nami gave him a sassy grin. “We need to go upstairs for the meeting,” she reminded him, tapping his cheek lightly. Because good Kami if she didn’t stop him now, they won’t make it up there.

“Tch!”

“We have responsibilities tonight. Plus you also ruined my lipstick,” she chastised him softly even as she gave him a quick peck before proceeding to rub off the red smear on his lips with her thumb. “Didn’t I tell you that the lips are off limits when I’m all dolled up like this?” 

Nami tilted her head down to gesture at her sparkling champagne gown.

She smiled softly when his frown deepened. Zoro absolutely looked like a spoiled brat who didn’t get his way.

Adorable.

Nami traced his mouth softly with her thumb before kissing him again.

“Do we have to be there?” Zoro grudgingly asked when she pulled away again and resumed wiping of traces of her lipstick on him. They weren’t exactly letting anyone know about them. Heck, even they themselves don’t know what the real score between them is. They haven’t really discussed it. But somehow they had both come to an agreement that whatever they’re doing are exclusively just between them and third parties are not welcome. 

Robin probably (with her intelligence) knows a thing or two about them based on the way she was looking at Nami when she asked her to search for the green-haired man. And to be honest, Nami suspects that they are being whispered behind closed doors. Most of those in the low ranks are gossips after all.

They better be not in those idiots betting pool! She swore there will be hell to pay.

In the dim light of the room, she did her best to erase the remnants of red on his lips as Zoro watched her.

“Sorry, but boss’s orders.”

He grunted and straightened up, giving Nami a nod that they better go. He had a ‘let’s get this over with’ expression on his face and she chuckled.

Nami tugged at his dinner jacket. “We need to stop by my office first.”

“Huh? Why?”

She narrowed her eyes at him. “You made a mess of my make-up. I have to retouch.”

“Tch!”

“Don’t tch me! I absolutely refuse to walk into the meeting room without fixing myself first!” Nami glowered at him. “They’d get ideas.”

“No they won’t.”

“Yes they will. Robin is not an idiot.”

“Fine,” Zoro relented begrudgingly. Nami does have a point. He’s not looking forward being subjected to the others teasing or insinuations. “Lead the way woman.”

Nami flashed him a victorious smile. “Plus I also have to leave this there.”

She raised her hand and waved a small box in front his face.

Zoro’s brows furrowed when he realized what she was holding. “Damn it Nami!” He growled.

“Aaaw Zoro don’t be mad,” Nami pinched his cheek. “Is this for me?”

“I’m actually tempted to say no.”

“Ah, so this is mine!”

He was looking at her with a deadpan expression on his face. Nami just pressed a kiss on his cheek before mouthing ‘thank you’.

“I can’t believe you filched that, you’re unbelievable.” Zoro groused.

“Yup. Right in while you were busy shoving your tongue inside my mouth.” Nami brazenly declared as she observed the small yet pretty gift box. A sparkling ribbon was tied around it and she shook it lightly, her eyes widening at the sound coming from inside it. 

Zoro looked smug. “Don’t think you one upped me witch. I just didn’t stop you.”

But Nami was too happy and too distracted with her gift to pay any attention to what he was saying.

“Oooh! Did you get me something shiny and sparkly?” She probed, her tone enthusiastic. “I sure don’t mind getting something to pair with them.” She tilted her head slightly to show him the earrings she was wearing. The diamonds set on them came from Jozu Island and very hard to acquire. When Zoro said he’ll get her those, she had treated it as a joke at first. But when he handed her a black velvet box containing the said stones in their raw beauty, she realized he was dead serious in with his word.

Nami had some of them set into different jewelries. And once they were done, she wore them to show Zoro just how absolutely stunning they looked, especially against her naked skin. 

He just snorted at her. “Why don’t you open it?”

She excitedly tugged at the box’s ribbon, letting it fall down the floor. She lifted the top cover up and peered inside.

“Uh… wow.” She slowly nodded her head hoping it would give her time to wrap this one around her brain and figure out why she is looking at…

“Keys?” Nami looked up at Zoro in surprise.

Zoro smirked. “What? Are you expecting something else?”

Nami recovered quickly. “Nope. Not really.” She forced out a laugh. “I mean, I was actually expecting not to get anything from you at all after those diamonds.” She stared at the content of the box again. It wasn’t even a key for a car. She thought, a bit dumbfounded. So what the hell is…

She lifted her head and realized that Zoro was now looking at her amusedly. He had this certain expression on his handsome face that tells her he is up to something.

“What?” Nami queried, cocking an eyebrow at him. “I don’t like the expression on your face right now.”

He just shrugged his shoulders and continued looking at her with amusement dancing behind his grey eye.

“Merry Christmas Nami.” He greeted in that deep, lazy voice of his. “That should stop you from nicking my own set.”

Nami’s eyes widened and her mouth dropped open when she finally realized what those keys are for.

Stupid Zoro just gave her her own set of keys for his house.

Her very own set.

She glanced down at it again.

Does he have any idea on how serious the implication of his gift was?

She lifted her eyes up to gaze at his face. And she knew instantaneously that he had thought this one through. After all, Zoro rarely decides things on a whim.

Without another word she threw herself at him, glomping him with enough force to almost push him back against the writing desk.

She buried her face on his neck. She could feel the rumble of laughter on his chest at her reaction.

“I take it that you like it?” Zoro laughingly asked.

Nami looked up at him and replied with a dazzling smile. “Definitely.”

“Better than the diamonds?”

“That is a hard question Zoro.” She mock-pouted. “I like them both very much.”

Zoro responded with a chuckle.  

She studied his face for a moment, unsure on how she would ask the question that’s weighing on her mind for months now.

“Zoro…”

“Hnn?”

Nami took a deep breath. “You know that this… you know that this means…” she trailed off and instead pointed a finger at him and then at herself. “Are we making this official?” She just blurted out not knowing how to proceed anymore.

His answer was a simple yes. And gave her that smile that never fails to steal her breath away. That one smile she always, always coveted to see directed at her.

And there was no really better response to that but to press her lips on his in the softest of kisses that he eagerly returned.

She was giggling when she pulled away. “I’m so going to put that bathroom of yours into good use.” She murmured while running her fingers through his hair.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah,” she affirmed. “And you will definitely have a lot of sleepless nights from here on.” She grinned naughtily at him.

“Looking forward to it.” He whispered before Nami kissed him again.

“And also, now that we are official,” Nami murmured in between kisses. “I will collect my percentages from all your betting pool wins.”

Zoro jerked back at that and was now staring at her incredulously.

She smiled mischievously at him. “Oh. Usopp tattled.”

“Usopp?” Zoro repeated. “That idiot. Pretty sure he wants to split the wins tonight with you.”

“Definitely. And the tattler also told me you’re in it too. So want to counter-offer?”

Zoro looked like he was pondering for a moment. “No way that’s gonna be fifty-fifty. You’re too much of a witch to be fair.”

Nami threw her head back and laugh.

“Sixty-forty,” she offered impishly.

“I knew it.” Zoro huffed with a roll of his eyes.

Nami tapped his chest. “Sixty on you… and you take me out on a really fancy date.”

Zoro grinned. “Eighty-twenty.”

Nami’s eyebrows disappeared behind her bangs.

“I’ll take you out on a fancy date and not on that place where dartboard brows goes.”

“Go on…” Nami still looked unconvinced.

Zoro bent down slightly so his lips were now touching her ear. “Then I’ll take you home. And we’ll spend all three days before the New Year party in bed.”

The corners of Nami’s lips quirked at that.

“You better not be talking about just sleeping there Zoro.”

“Of course I’m not.”

“Then you got yourself a deal.”

[eirist]

One More Sleep

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: A ZoNa Holiday Events is up at Tumblr for the month of December. We got selected themes for each day and we’d love other ZoNa shippers to join and celebrate our favorite couple with holiday-themed fanarts and fanfics! Feel free to check it here: @zonamievents

Unexpectedly wrote this one just this Christmas dawn/morning (my timezone) because I can’t sleep from too much eating. And coffee. Zoned out once this is done. It’s what I would say a go figure work and definitely smells of a companion one-shot.

 Anyways, Merry Christmas everyone!

Theme: # 25 - Hibernate

Summary: “Why don’t you go up and check on him?” “Why does everybody keep telling me that?”

“Is he still asleep?”

Nami raised one eyebrow as she directed the question to the tinkering sniper. Usopp momentarily paused from what he was doing and blinked up at her.

She just continued looking at him, waiting for an answer. The curly-haired lad shrugged his shoulders in response. “Probably,” he said as went back to adjusting the screws on his latest invention. “Didn’t hear any sound coming from the nest since this morning.”

Nami pursed her lips at that. It was already late afternoon. Scratch that. It was nearing sun set to be more precise.

“Seems overboard even for him.” She flicked a glance at the crow’s nest before her eyes riveted to Usopp. “Are we sure he’s still alive in there?”

Now Usopp stopped working, shooting her an incredulous look. Then his face broke into a grin that Nami finds a bit irritating.

“You seemed concern? Why not go up and check on him?” He suggested with a wiggle of his eyebrows.

Nami fought the urge to punch him on the head. “I am so not! I’m just wondering why he hasn’t lugged his stupid ass down here, being a nuisance and pissing Sanji-kun off!”

“O-kay,” Usopp mouthed looking like he’s not buying her explanation. He studied Nami for a moment and snickered when he saw her looking up at the crow’s nest again.

“What?” Nami asked in a sharp tone when she heard it. She glared daggers at her so-called friend knowing full well that he plans to subject her to some teasing.

“Nothing.” Usopp was quick to answer and he immediately went back to his work, feigning concentration.

“Urgh,” Nami groaned. “What a waste of time.” She muttered before stomping away from him to head at the galley.

Behind her Usopp snickered again.

She didn’t bother turning around to confront him or scare the shit out of him. Instead she just said, “All that snickering’s gonna cost you Usopp.”

She ignored the shout of protest that came from behind her.

-----------------------

“Is he still not up?”

Nami asked that question again. Only this time she directed it to her captain instead of the long-nosed sniper.

Luffy blinked back at her. Almost the same as what Usopp did earlier, exactly three hours ago.

He looked a bit confused as if he did not comprehend what she was asking.

And based from his answer… he definitely did not. “Who?” Her idiotic captain questioned back. A nerve ticked on Nami’s forehead before she replied. “Zoro.” Luffy paused for a moment, before he broke into a grin and laughed. “Oh. Zoro! Shishishi! Guess not. I haven’t seen him since…” he tilted his head, as if pondering. “Uhm…” “Stop that.” Nami instantly decided to put a stop to his thinking with a slight wave of her hand. Or they’ll be at it until… some other things manage to catch Luffy’s attention. “You’ll hurt yourself.”

“Why would I hurt myself?”

“Ugh, never mind.”

Luffy was looking at her strange. Then he blurted out. “Oi! Have you seen Zoro, Nami?”

Nami stared at him disbelievingly. Her fist throbbed from the effort of holding back and preventing herself from thumping him on the head. “I already asked you that Luffy! So that means I haven’t.”

“Oh! Why are you looking for him?”

“Because I haven’t seen him since…” she trailed off. Sweet heavens! Did she really fell into the Luffy loop where they’ll just keep asking each other, confusing each other and actually ending up with no clear answer?

Luffy was looking at her eagerly.

She exhaled loudly. “You know what; Sanji-kun is cooking something delicious in the kitchen for tomorrow.” Nami decided to just distract her ever gluttonous captain. “You might want to check it out.” She lowered her voice conspiratorially.

That perked the rubber man up. “Really?” His eyes went wide and Nami could swear she can see meat in them.

She nodded and just like that Luffy went bounding towards the galley, shouting meat at the top of his lungs.

There were a lot of cursing coming from the kitchen and something about ‘It’s way past dinnertime!’ and ‘That food is for tomorrow!’ and ‘Luffy you idiot captain!’. Then some sounds of scuffle and a few thuds here and there.

Nami just shrugged like it wasn’t her fault.

Sorry Sanji-kun! She internally apologized for distracting Luffy with their chef.

------------------------ “No one’s seen him since yesterday.”

“Huh?” This time it’s Nami’s turn to blink in surprise at the sudden information. She had just stepped inside the girl’s room after spending the rest of the night in the library working on one of her maps. It was almost midnight when she finally decided to get some rest and finish the other charts tomorrow.

The whole day passed and still the person she was looking for haven’t shown himself. Not during breakfast, lunch or even dinner that Sanji-kun was a bit peeved since ‘that stupid marimo is wasting food’—his exact words. Yet, the blond cook did not bother going up the nest to check on him. ‘That idiot is a grown man after all and the hell with him!’. He had grumbled while in the middle of dinner.

Robin was sitting on one of their comfy sofas; the round coffee table in front of her was filled with open books. She was poring over a thick history volume when Nami entered.

“What was that?” Nami prompted when Robin did not say anything after what she declared.

The raven-haired beauty lifted her head to regard Nami. She smiled. “Zoro. He hasn’t gone down the nest since yesterday.”

“Uhm… I wasn’t…” the navigator began.

Robin raised a curious eyebrow at her. “You’ve been asking around.”

Nami felt her face heat up at that. She was about to say she wasn’t. Besides she made sure to ask their crewmates randomly and one by one to appear surreptitious and not pique their curiosity so much on why she’s inquiring about their green-haired swordsman.

But the archaeologist was sneakier than her, for she had known exactly what Nami is up to.

So lying definitely won’t work. Robin knows everything and anything that goes in their ship with her convenient ability to produce her eyes and ears everywhere.

That or maybe Franky tipped her off after she asked him earlier. That speedo-wearing pervert!

“Why don’t you go up and check on him?” Robin spoke again as she flipped a page of her book.

Nami pouted as she plopped down her bed, crossing her arms over her chest. “Why does everybody keep telling me that?”

“Maybe because it’s the obvious thing to do instead of going around and asking everybody about him.” Robin threw her a small smile as her tone emphasized the word ‘everybody’. “Would’ve saved you the trouble.”

The orange-haired girl flinched slightly at that. Robin had caught her slip. Well, it’s not like she didn’t know already.

And did she really went around and asked everyone on the ship? She only questioned Usopp and Luffy… … and Sanji-kun and Chopper and Franky and Brook and Jinbei…

Her shoulders slumped at her realization. That’s the whole crew… almost.

Robin was looking at her expectantly. “We’re nearing a winter island right? Weather’s been too cold these last few days…”

Nami stared at her. “Yeah we are,” she agreed with a nod of her head. She considered what the older woman just said. “What? You mean he’s like hibernating or something?” Nami’s eyebrow lifted high at that, disappearing behind her orange bangs. “What is he? A bear?!”

Robin laughed softly before returning to her book. “With the weather this cold, he’d definitely prefer sleeping. Can’t blame him right?” She lifted her eyes again and looked at her pointedly. “He’s probably just catching up on sleep. After all he’s been pulling double shifts these last few days,” she tilted her head slightly, still gazing at Nami meaningfully. “Isn’t he?”

Nami winced. Zoro was indeed pulling double night-watch shifts lately. But no one knows that.

Except her and him.

And Robin… apparently.

She didn’t answer so as not to affirm what Robin was saying.

“Can’t be that comfortable on the nest’s floor.” Robin murmured, that certain smile never leaving her face even as she perused her book again.

Nami’s brows furrowed at that.

“How about a nice pillow and one of those wonderful blankets we got from Sherpa Island?” She suggested and multiple hands sprouted to open their closet door to pull one out, lightly throwing it at Nami.

“Eeeh?” Nami retorted even if she held out her arms to catch it. She gaped in surprise when Robin’s hands made a grab for her pillow and placed it in her arms.  

“He’d probably sleep until he’s on watch again.” Robin smiled at her. “You can bring it up with you. I’m sure you’re going to go up there to finally check on him.”

“Robin!”

“Ara, aren’t you planning to do that?” Robin now has a cheeky smile on her face. “Or do you need me asleep before you sneak out?” She gave Nami a wink.

The map maker was speechless. How much does Robin knows???

“It wouldn’t hurt to make sure he gets a good rest right? After all it’s your shift he’s been covering.”

Nami blushed hard at that. Zoro was indeed covering her watch shifts. But only because HE said he WILL!

“For the record. He insisted.” Nami explained with frown as she bundled the blanket and pillow in her arms. “I did not force him to!” “Oh? Then that’s sweet of him to offer don’t you think?”

Nami blushed harder than she ever thought possible.

“He just… I just… He…” she stuttered before finally finding her ground.

“Why am I even explaining?!”

Robin looked at her knowingly, mischievously. “Why indeed?”

[eirist]

Morning After Christmas

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: A ZoNa Holiday Events is up at Tumblr for the month of December. We got selected themes for each day and we’d love other ZoNa shippers to join and celebrate our favorite couple with holiday-themed fanarts and fanfics! Feel free to check it here: @zonamievents

This is one day late. Today’s theme is different but I’ll still push it.

Theme: #17 -  Morning After Christmas

Summary: All that eventually led them here. The morning after Christmas—all tangled up in each other and wrapped in the coziest blankets…

Soft.

So soft.

He can hardly remember a time when he woke up nuzzled against something so soft, so comforting…

…and so warm.

Zoro doesn’t really care much about the comforts of life. He rarely lets unnecessary whims or luxuries bother him and he rarely indulges in them.

Well except of course when it’s sleep and sake. Those are the only two things he lets himself enjoy without any restrictions.

He lived simply. He survived with whatever is on hand without any complaint or fuss. As long as there is food to eat, water to drink, a shade to rest and sleep (doesn’t matter if it is inside an abandoned shelter or a tree in the midst of the forest); he is all good.

But this feeling that greeted him the moment he woke up was too pleasant to pass. It was new and not something he is used to. Zoro had woken up with a lot of the not-so-nice things greeting him—an end of a sword or knife pointed at his throat, the hard, cold ground, a growling, wild animal looking for food, a punch in head, the cold sea water, Luffy’s mouth about to take a chomp of him and his pillow while dreaming of meat (and he wasn’t the only one in the boy’s room to experience this, it’s a constant problem)…

…but never this. Never surrounded by this kind of warmth and comfort and softness he had never known before. The kind that makes you never want to pull away. Ever.

Just this once he wanted to let himself bask in it. Revel in it. The way he indulges himself with sleep and alcohol—no restrictions

He took a deep breath and buried his face closer to it. To the warmth, the softness that smelled slightly of…

Tangerines.

Like Nami’s tangerines.

With that he cracked his eye open, all his senses now wide awake.

His gaze was instantly fixed on the sight of smooth skin, tanned slightly from sailing under sun. There are wisps of curling orange hair resting against the slender curve of the neck and  framing a beautiful, sleeping face.

Nami took a deep breath in her sleep, her bare shoulder slowly rising and falling at the action. Zoro watched in fascination as her lips pursed slightly, her brows furrowing before she nestled closer to him. Her chin settled against the top of his head and he realized what that softness he was feeling was.

He was actually pressed against her, his face settled comfortably against her generous breasts.

His initial reaction was to jerk back the moment it dawned unto him that he was eye level with those beautiful, naked mounds and that enticing cleavage. But stopped short when he realized that he can’t move… he and Nami were tangled up with each other. Their arms and legs entwined in a way that they slept locked in each other’s embrace.

Well… their Christmas night had been crazy fun. Why else would they end up wrapped in each other this morning?

Not that he’s complaining. They’ve been doing this exasperating back and forth with each other for so long it was bound to blow up anytime soon. Besides he couldn’t pinpoint the exact moment their petty and perpetual squabbling turned into a sort of their own secret language and a way to show their affection for each other that was actually there—quietly sitting and patiently waiting to rear its head out in the least expected moment.   

But he had known (and so did Nami) that there was a certain shift in their bickering which initially were tinge with insults that were meant to pull the other down a peg or two or put them in their own places. It had something in it that wasn’t there before. How every time it ended, they’d part ways just like before, huffing at each other only this time they would both desperately try to hide a smirk and a smile as they walk away.

How Zoro was now always looking forward to it and would sometimes deliberately try to rile the navigator up and how Nami did the same, purposely coming up the crow’s nest while he trains or naps to start a row with him.

It never ended with either one of them annoyed with each other. And that was new and surprising and to be honest kind of exhilirating.

He also started being more tolerant of her, not getting easily irritated with her complaints or even if she was waking him up with her fist. The same goes for her, she doesn’t make too much fuss when he gets lost or when he says or do something that she deemed stupid.   

And he realized while all this is happening, they also started to move closer to each other. Literally. Like they were drawn to each other like magnets. They started sitting beside each other more often. Or standing almost near each other. But always at arm’s length… far enough yet still close enough.

Three weeks into Christmas, the distance they carefully kept between them while they try to make sense on what they should do totally disappeared.

And the touching started.

Light and fleeting at first. A tap on the shoulder, a nudge on the arm, the back of their hands brushing against each other…

Zoro stood much closer to her now, near enough to breathe in the scent of tangerines from her hair. And Nami started crowding on his personal space, leaning on to him with a cheeky smile on her face especially when she needs to pass someone something or get something from someone, almost as if she was teasing him.

On one random island where they docked for the day, she had ‘accidentally’ pulled at his fingers in an attempt to stop him from turning around a random corner and disappearing on them because he definitely will get lost the moment she lose sight of him.

And Nami never let go.

Her dainty hand was wrapped around three of his fingers as she tugged him all over the marketplace to buy some necessities for their stock. He followed her with a lot of grumbling and expletives all at the same time marvelling at the size difference of their hands.

How soft hers was. How coarse his is.

How it just feels right.

Before the sun set that day, his hand was intertwined with hers. And for reasons so much more than because he’ll wander off and will get lost.

And soon after they would find their hands interlaced together at random times of the day. Always surreptitiously, never in front of the others. Only when they are sure that they are only ones in the room.

She’d casually lean her head on his shoulder while they were up in the crow’s nest on their night shifts. His hand would rest the small of her back as they explore the island where they just docked just by themselves, far from the crew.

And when they are alone in the crow’s nest again before the change of watch, that same hand would wound itself around her waist so he can pull her closer to him for a kiss.

All that eventually led them here. The morning after Christmas—all tangled up in each other and wrapped in the coziest blankets Nami had brought last night after their Christmas celebration along with a bottle of sake to share.

“Mmmm…” Nami suddenly hummed as she started to stir awake, her body moving languidly to stretch. She opened her eyes and chocolate brown orbs peered down at him in wonder, blinking twice before a warm smile spread on her face.

“You awake already?” She murmured softly, her voice still laced with sleep. “It’s not even the break of the day.”

Zoro smirked. He rubbed a hand against her exposed arm noticing how the skin on it prickled with the cold air of dawn. Luckily they were nowhere near a winter island right now or they’d both be freezing by now from falling asleep with just the blankets on them.

“These blankets are crazy soft,” Nami was mumbling, rubbing her feet against the material. “It feels so good.”

“Yeah,” Zoro agreed, as he continued to warm her arm.

She just let out a soft purring sound of contentment at his ministration before her eyes drifted close again. “Sleep with me some more Zoro.” she requested.

The swordsman chuckled. He’d never deny her that.

He adjusted their position so Nami was now the one whose eye level with his chest, her head resting on the crook of his arm. He pulled her close and kissed her forehead as he covered them with one of the blankets so they both could drift off back to sleep.

The soft giggle she let out sent a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

Zoro rarely lets himself indulge in this kind of comfort.

But maybe this morning after Christmas he might finally start to.

[eirist]

Scent of Christmas

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T

Note: A ZoNa Holiday Events is up at Tumblr for the month of December. We got selected themes for each day and we’d love other ZoNa shippers to join and celebrate our favorite couple with holiday-themed fanarts and fanfics! Feel free to check it here: @zonamievents

I am late, so late for the other themes and for this event. But still, I cannot pass this opportunity to make something for my favorite pairing. So here’s one. Just a cozy, not even that romantic one-shot.

Theme: #11 – Scent of Christmas

Summary: Right now Nami is almost at her wits end trying to figure out why Zoro, of all people, was coming and going in the library while she was in there working.

It was the sixth time he had stepped inside the library that day.

Nami could count on her fingers how many times Zoro was able to get himself lost in the Sunny’s library in day—sometimes once and sometimes zero.

But never more. Especially if she was inside it and drawing her maps.

He knows she doesn’t like distractions when she’s charting. It’s almost the same as when he was working out in the crow’s nest and didn’t like anyone going up and interrupting him.

That is the unspoken rule. Their unspoken rule. And the whole crew knows it. No interruptions unless it was absolutely necessary—like someone better be dying necessary.

So right now Nami is almost at her wits end trying to figure out why Zoro, of all people, was coming and going in the library while she was in there working.

He does nothing while inside. He doesn’t talk to her. All he ever did was gave a slight nod to indicate he was aware that she was there and then goes to sit on the farthest part of the bench, close to where they placed the Christmas tree the day before. After a few minutes he would stand up, nod at her again and leave the room.

And Nami was dumbfounded.

“What’s going on?” She blurted out when he finally stood up to leave after another instance of him silently sitting inside the library. Zoro was officially distracting her and in the last minutes they kept on glancing at each other to the point that it had turned awkward.

“Nothing.”

That’s it? That’s all he is going to say?

Nami turned her body to his direction so she could fully look at him. “Why do you keep going in here if it’s nothing?” Her hands made the ‘air quotes’ gesture at the word nothing to emphasized her point.

“Can’t I?” Zoro asked with one raised eyebrow.

“Don’t be difficult,” Nami folded her arms across her chest. As much as she wanted to throw her ink bottle at him, she was also trying not to get irate or she’d lost her mapping mood. “Do you need anything?” She tried again.

He just shook his head. “Nothing.” He repeated again. “Don’t mind it.”

With that he just gave her a dismissive wave of his hand and without another word, exited the library.

Nami was left to slumped back on her chair with a confused expression on her face.

------------------------

After that Zoro didn’t came inside the library any more. Nami had timed his coming and goings. The green-haired man might not realize it but he did have some actions that are pretty predictable that she can easily discern them.

Like some of the things he did are kind of habitual. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out Zoro’s everyday schedule. Except when he gets lost or when he is fighting.

So it really didn’t take much for Nami to figure it out his weird routine that day. It only stopped because she finally called it to attention.

But of course, Zoro is just as stubborn as her. And when he wants to do something, he’s not gonna let anyone stop him.

Only this time he didn’t bother going inside the library and he just stood outside the door and after a few minutes he walks away.

And that, that was driving her crazy.

What in the seven seas is he doing?!

Nami was now ready to tear her hair out. She cannot concentrate anymore. Instead of paying attention to her maps, her attention was drawn to the library’s door where he lingered outside for reasons only Kami knows why.

And she spent the whole time he was out there staring at the brown, wooden door that separated him and her, wondering.

This went on up until dinner time. And Nami was so ready to confront him again. And this time no more niceties. This time there will definitely be some fining and punching.

But Zoro disappeared before her dinner was even finished. Either the idiot went up the crow’s nest for a post-dinner work-out or a post-dinner nap.

Or he knows she plans on talking to him and made his prompt escape to avoid her.

She headed back to the library, mentally reminding herself that if Zoro so much as hover outside the door again, she’s gonna put him on a chokehold to make him spit out way why he’s being odd.

When she opened the door to get back to her maps, she stopped short.

She was holed up inside for so long that she didn’t even noticed it anymore. Sitting and bending down her desk to make the perfect maps must’ve immuned her to it.

Their library had never looked this festive before. The Straw Hats did decorate it yesterday in preparation for Christmas. They had hung decorated wreaths and ornaments all around the room and erected a Christmas tree that boys cut down from the island where they were docked. There were big scented candles in red, green and white that she and Robin had carefully hand-picked and Nami recalled she had lit them up before she started working to give the room a cozier ambience.

But it wasn’t just that. The scents coming from inside was warm and cool and woody and sweet; crisp and fresh and inviting and delicious…

The combination of scents was overwhelming yet calming. It was like stepping inside Christmas and being wrapped in it.

It was like stepping inside home and getting a warm, welcoming hug.

And she understood what was going on.

The next time she heard Zoro’s footsteps approached the door, she stood up, opened it and stared at him.

He looked taken a back. Which is quite surprising that it almost made her smirk. Because honestly she rarely catches him off-guard.

“Just get inside,” she said with sigh.

He was about to open his mouth to retort but she beat him to it.

“Just shut up,” she turned and headed back to her desk. She heard Zoro followed her inside without saying anything.

Once she was back on her chair, she huffed slightly before resuming drawing on her maps again. “Just lie down on the seat. The floor wouldn’t be that comfortable.”

Zoro grunted. But Nami choose to ignore whatever it was that he was saying.

She didn’t bother glancing up when he propped his swords against the library’s surrounding bench and stretched out on it. Quite near her to be honest.

Nami threw something at him. A beautifully designed Christmas blanket she had purchased when she was shopping with Robin.

“Weather’s gonna turn much colder tonight,” Nami snorted as she continued working on her map. “And you’re still not dressed in your winter clothes.”

Zoro mumbled something under his breath. She was damn pretty sure it wasn’t a nasty retort or comment that would set her off.

It shouldn’t be. She was generous enough to let him nap inside after all, even if she was still doing some work. She’d break their unspoken rule just this once. Because honestly, it was cute that he keeps coming back because he wanted to spend some time there… where the scents of Christmas are all-around, surrounding them.

This could be her gift to him.

“Oh and Zoro,” she called out, watching him amusedly as lifted his head to look at her crabbily for disturbing the start of his dozing off.

“Just don’t snore too loudly. I’ll kick you out,” she cheekily reminded him.

He scoffed and Nami just ignored him again.

There was a smile on her lips as she turned back to her drawing again.

And if she had just stolen a glance at the swordsman, she would have caught that same smile as he drifted off to one of his many naps.

[eirist]

Treading Uncharted Waters

MIDNIGHT LUCK

One-shot #: 4

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: M (Flirting and harcore sexy time)

Note: For @tali-tangerine. It only took me like years, I’m sure you forgot all about this request but I still wanted to finish it.

I’m currently with a fever and can’t sleep. So I decided to wrestle with this one-shot because this has been driving me crazy for years. I’m having a hard time writing and finishing it. Good thing though it finally relented. It’s a late smutty Halloween themed fic and I hope you enjoy it NSFW people. It's PWP and minors stay away. You’ve been warned. Same goes for those who don’t like smut.

From the Autumn/Fall (and Halloween!) Prompt List. Prompt #37 – Midnight Approached.

Summary: Haunted castle or not, nothing will stop the cat burglar from scouring it so she can get her hands on the fabled treasure. But what will she find in one of the castle’s deserted rooms?

The fabled Hanter castle is situated in an islet... smack right in the middle of the island of Duch.

Said place is only accessible from the mainland by boats, as it is surrounded by water coming in from the sea via the waterway channels randomly located around the whole island.

And there is no other way to set foot on it. 

Except once a year.

Once a year, when the evening of the harvest festival arrives (which coincides with what the island’s inhabitants call Hallows’ eve) and the moon is full and high in the sky, a pathway of stone strangely appears from the depths of the waters connecting it to the mainland and giving everyone passage to visit the place.

If they are brave enough to do so.   

As Hanter castle was long abandoned… after the mysterious deaths of the family who once owned it. 

In all the years following that event, no one in Duch Island had bought the place nor taken residence in it. Not even vagrants attempted to make it their sanctuary or stay even for just one night in its numerous, empty bedrooms.

For those who DID try have much to say about the place.

Because whenever midnight approached… strange and unexplainable things start to happen inside its cold stone walls.

It was said that the Hanter family never left their home…

 … and that their ghosts stayed behind so that they can guard their precious family treasures hidden somewhere in the castle’s vast expanse…

-------------------------

Nami shivered as she recalled the story told by the town’s mayor earlier at the plaza where a festival was being held.

The Straw Hats arrived on Duch Island yesterday and their captain got an invitation from one of the locals to attend the town’s annual costumed event.

Luffy insisted on staying for it… merely because in his simpleton mind festivities always equate to meat. Lots and lots of it.

And it didn’t take too long for the others to agree. As pirates they rarely get invited to events or parties… just brawls or fistfights or taking down Yonkos.

Everyone was in high spirits. And the fact that they have to wear costumes for the festival was a plus. It would be awesome to finally have an excuse to dress up and enjoy the event without having to worry about any marines or bounty hunters spotting them.

Nami took it upon herself to be in charge of the crew’s outfits—aka shopping for it.

She declared that all expenses will be deducted to each crew member’s allowances, earning shouts of protests from everyone except Robin. She ignored it all and countered with a threat of charging thirty times her usual shopping fee.

That shut them all up.

Nami sweetly asked the archaeologist if she wants to join her and the older woman nodded amusedly as the rest of the male crew looked crestfallen at the fact that she could easily clean out their money pouches with her threat.

Then the navigator turned and snapped at a dozing Zoro to stop being a lazy moron and to accompany them as pack mule.

There had been much grumbling, swearing, shouting and threatening before Nami kicked his stupid rear towards the ladder leading down the port with Robin giggling as she followed them.

The girls’ shopping went well and the crew donned the costumes they bought without so much a grumble or a complaint (the threat of Nami’s times thirty shopping charge is still hanging in the air and the possibility of it increasing two-fold is definitely likely) before they headed to the town.

The festival was a blast. The Straw Hats enjoyed mingling about and checking the different merchant stalls scattered around the brightly lit plaza. The food and ale were overflowing, it wouldn’t come as a surprise if someone—namely the rubber captain—goes into a food coma.

It was so much fun… until the town’s mayor narrated the legend of the Hanter castle and its hidden treasure.

That was solely the reason why Nami was now silently traipsing along the castle’s west wing hallway with only the light of the full moon as her guide.

Alone.

Cursing inwardly and chastising herself for teaming up with Usopp—who was gone right from the start of their exploration—she continued to move forward.

Even if she was freaking scared as hell!

Whose idea was it again to go into this castle and search for the fabled long, lost treasure?

Ah! Hers… of course!

Think of the treasure! Think of the treasure! She mentally chanted.

Something suddenly brushed against her hand and Nami stiffened.

With her heart still thumping madly against her chest, a sigh of relief escaped her when she realized that it was just the draping sleeve of her black gown.

She clicked her tongue against the roof of her mouth at her jumpiness. This caper had just shifted her scaredy-cat self into overdrive. 

Nami took a deep breath and steeled herself, gathering every ounce of courage she still have. She continued to edge onward with ears pricked up, trying to hear if there were any sounds that would eventually pinpoint where her other friends are.

But there were none.

The castle was silent.

“Damn it!” Nami hissed under her breath. “This castle is so creepy!” She rubbed at her arms, fighting the shivers trailing up and down her back as she looked around. She doesn’t think she can do this anymore without any back-up.

Maybe she should retrace her steps and hopefully ran into any of her crewmates?

She pondered for a moment on what to do best as her eyes observed her surroundings. For now it looks like she’s relatively safe on where she was. There are no weird sounds, things or—Kami, forbid—ghostly apparitions anywhere around. Just a long corridor, dimly lit by the moon outside as its beam streamed inside the floor to ceiling windows randomly lining her left side.

The view of the thick trees bordering the lawn outside is probably striking… if it was morning. In the dark of the night it looks frightening, like something is going to suddenly appear in between the shadowy trunks.

Nami immediately averted her eyes elsewhere. A drop of sweat trickled down her back, cold against her skin.

That’s it! She…

She did a double take as she spotted a door at the end of the hallway.

A grin appeared on her face.

Finally a safe place! And if she is lucky enough… there could be some valuables inside that room that she can snag.

Or if she’s luckier… she might find a clue where the treasure is!

The thought of that immediately replenished her courage.

Her black high-heeled shoes made annoying clacking sounds against the stone floor as she hastily headed towards it. Nami grimaced as she tried to control her footstep.

All these troubles better be worth it!

Suddenly, a loud bang came from the castle’s upper floors that made her almost jumped out of her skin.

The navigator immediately made a mad dash towards the room. She didn’t want to stay where she was and find out whatever the hell it is.

Luckily it wasn’t locked. The elegantly engraved door handle didn’t resist when she pushed down on it.

She nudged the door with one shoulder and swiftly slid inside the room, closing it abruptly.

Whatever caused that sound… it was just probably one or two of her idiot nakamas.

And it better be! There’s no one else in this place that would cause any noise like that at all!

She shuddered when she remembered the scary tales surrounding the area and swallowed the lump that suddenly appeared in her throat.

Nami turned and leaned back against the door, panting slightly.

Then she stopped and blinked disbelievingly.

Shadows were dancing across the stone walls of what was supposedly a dark, unlit room. To her horror, she realized that there were floor-standing brass candelabras at the far end of the room...

…with lighted candles on it, creating said silhouettes on the walls.

Nami felt her insides churned at the sight and she could swear her blood run cold at that very moment.

This place was supposed to be abandoned, right? Why in the world were there burning candles in this room like somebody was using it?

What in the actual fuck is happening?!

Her body trembled. She knew it! Something strange was going on here!

Maybe the stories about this place are really true!

Nami’s eyes zeroed in on the four-poster bed in the middle. The heavy curtains hanging from it were drawn closed—as if keeping a secret of some sort.

A choked sob escaped her throat.

Shit! What has she gotten herself into?

And she had to be alone now of all times! The Straw Hats have all gone their separate ways to explore the castle.

What is wrong with their crew? Didn’t they know that the first rule of exploring supposedly haunted places is to do it as a group?!

They will get it from her later. Once she gets out of this place and back into the safety of the Sunny.

I will kill you later Usopp! She mentally threatened the absent sniper. She paired up with him earlier—a rather bad decision really. They barely made it past ten steps when Usopp panicked and immediately sprinted down the hallway. He disappeared around a corner, screaming all the while that something grabbed at his leg.

It was just probably the cape of his costume. That idiot!

The prospect of getting her hands on the treasure distracted her so much from the actuality that there is a chance that she will be left wandering the castle’s dark, deserted halls alone.

Which is what happened.  

Where is Zoro when you need him? Or Sanji-kun? Or Luffy?

The bed suddenly made a creaking sound and she almost jumped for the umpteenth time that night.

Oh fuck!!!

Her Clima-tact was instantly in her hand.

The bed creaked again. And it dawned to the frightened map maker that there is someone… something… behind the closed curtains.

Whatever was inside it… it seemed to be initially asleep and was now waking up.

Did it sense her presence?

Damn it all. She should have paired up with Zoro. At least that idiot can scare the shit out of anything.

But the swordsman had already vanished even before they made it to the castle grounds.

She readied herself. One thing she learned from her time as a pirate is that sometimes it’s better to attack first with hopes of surprising—if not incapacitating—the enemy…

…before high-tailing it out of there to hide some place safe.

Her Clima-tact can extend almost limitlessly. Maybe she can poke whatever it is in that bed and zap it.

And that was what she proceeded to do.

Nami nearly screamed when the other end of her weapon was suddenly grabbed. She felt whatever it was behind the drapes pulling at her Clima-tact. Instinctively she tried to pull back.

Dear Kami! She can’t let go of it. She’d be defenseless!

“Zeus! Wake up! Thunderbolt—”

“Damn it!” A voice growled from the canopy bed at the same time. “NAMI?!”

She froze. It sounded like…

Her fear left her instantaneously as irritation replaced it. She marched towards the bed with determination and pulled the curtains back.

“ZORO?!”

A disgruntled-looking swordsman was sitting on the bed, grasping the end of her Clima-tact and gazing back at her with an annoyed look on his face.

“Stop pointing this me,” he grunted, letting go of her weapon and slapping it away lightly.

“What the hell Zoro?!” Nami hissed angrily, smacking his hand. “What the hell are you doing here?!”

“What are YOU doing here?” Zoro countered, almost sullenly. “Aren’t you supposed to be scouring this castle for the treasure?”

She ignored his questions. “Where were you? You disappeared before we can even enter this place!”

The green-haired man shrugged and yawned.

“Are you actually sleeping here?!”

Zoro scratched the back of his head. “Yeah… and you’re disturbing me.”

Nami stared at him in astonishment. How the hell did he end up here? This talent of his never fails to amaze her! “I should’ve electrocuted you,” she mumbled, as she glared down at him with her hands on her hips.

“Glad you didn’t.” The idiot gave her an infuriating smirk. “Now why don’t you leave and go back to combing this place for the treasure?”

She let her arms fall limply at her sides. “I’m all alone and it’s really dark here.” Nami complained as she plopped down on the bed dejectedly.

The smirk on Zoro’s face deepened.  “Scared?”

“Of course I’d be!”

“Serves you right.”

Nami punched him on the shoulder as hard as she can.

Zoro winced as he rubbed the abused part. “Isn’t anyone with you?” He managed to ask with a small chuckle even as Nami threatened to punch him again.

“Usopp,” the navigator answered. “But we got separated.”

The green-haired man studied her for a moment. “You mean you both got scared and high-tailed it in separate directions?”

She scowled at him. “He high-tailed it in the other direction and left me alone.”

That made Zoro laugh out loud before pillowing his hands behind his head.

Nami watched him for a moment. She noted that he had already slipped out of the black gentleman’s coat he was wearing earlier as part of his costume. He left it haphazardly thrown at the foot of the bed.

“Why did you even paired up with him in the first place?” Zoro asked as he closed his eye, looking like he’s going to go back to sleeping again.

Nami eyed him impassively. “Well… you weren’t there. You got yourself lost instantly!”

His eye cracked open slightly to look at her as she rolled her eyes at him.

 “And whose fault it that?”

Nami’s eyes widened. “Definitely not mine!” She smacked his forehead lightly making him growl. The nerve of this man! “You can’t expect me to hold your hand so you wouldn’t get lost while we explore this place!”

“I wouldn’t have minded.”

Her jaw dropped open at his answer. She felt her cheeks reddened at his straightforwardness. She smacked him again on the forehead.

“Oi!”

She glared at him. “Do you really want the others sticking their noses in our business?”

Zoro shrugged his shoulders. 

“Oh?” The smirk that graced Nami’s lips was impish. She leaned down to him, close enough so that her body was almost draped over his and teasingly asked. “So you’re finally willing to deal with the impending chaos?”

The swordsman just snorted in response, yet his hand automatically reached out to rest on her waist.

Nami’s smirk turned into a playful smile when she felt his gesture. She pushed off him and sat back on the bed again, looking down on Zoro’s prone form.

“How did you even end up here?” She decided to focus on the matter at hand as she looked around. “Looking at how comfortable you are, you’ve probably been here for quite some time!”

“Found a door, opened it and went inside.”

Nami groaned at his typical brief reply while Zoro let out a huff, knowing that she would attempt to make fun of his faulty sense of direction—which is not defective as she claims it to be.

“You know, this place doesn’t seem like abandoned.” he suddenly commented, instantly piquing her curiosity.

“Huh?”

“There are no signs or smell of decay that abandoned places usually have.”

Nami’s cocked an eyebrow at him and his observation. “Since when are you an expert on abandoned places?”

“I’ve wandered enough.”

“Oh. You mean you got lost enough and usually end up passing the night in abandoned places?”

Zoro narrowed his eye at her teasing.  She’d never really pass the chance to mock his sense of direction. He decided to just ignore it. “Yeah.”

Nami hummed at that. It did make her wonder how he lived his life before he met Luffy and them.

A wandering swordsman indeed.

“There are half burnt candles in most of the rooms here,” Zoro continued explaining. ”Plus some of the beds actually have clean sheets on them.”

Nami’s eyes scrutinized the place as Zoro voiced out his observations. He was right. The bed they were on is spotless—the sheets, covers and drapes smelt and looked newly washed.

Not what you will typically see in a supposedly long-abandoned place.

“Wait,” Nami frowned. “What do you mean rooms?”

The former bounty hunter regarded her with a questioning gaze. Scratching his chin, Zoro explained.

“All the rooms on this floor are well-kept. Like someone’s using it or something.”

“You’ve seen all the rooms here?”

“Just this floor. Didn’t see if that’s the case in the others.”

Nami was actually amazed. He was able to scour the whole floor in the short amount of time that he was gone?

Well… it was most likely that Zoro had been randomly searching for a place where he can nap while he waited for them to reach the castle and start wreaking havoc inside it.

Still…

“Good job Zoro,” she praised him, giving him a thumbs up. “At least we know not to waste our time checking this floor.”

He only grumbled in response.

She tapped her chin thoughtfully. “Hmm… Robin said something about this place being an attraction or something for thrill seekers. Maybe that’s why they have some rooms ready… in case there are idiots who want to test their courage by staying here for the night.”

“You mean they rent it out?”

Nami nodded. “For the brave and stupid, possibly.”

“So does that mean there’s no treasure?”

“On the contrary,” Nami grinned. “It’s still here. I can sense it.”

Zoro scoffed at that as she glowered at him.

“And it’s also possible that the townspeople themselves are the ones pulling all-nighters here, searching for the treasure as well. Hence the tidy rooms.”

Zoro was nodding in agreement. Or nodding off to sleep. Nami wasn’t sure so she smacked his middle.

“Hey!” He immediately scowled at her.

“Oops… sorry,” she said all but apologetic. “You weren’t listening.”

“I am listening,” he snarled at her. “You said the treasure’s still here.”

“Right.”

“If that’s the case, feel free to look for it then. I’m gonna nap,” he muttered.

It was Nami’s turn to scowl at him. “Your ass is really lazy.”

He merely sent a smirk her way. “I don’t care woman.”

“You’re no help at all!” 

“Hey! You find it. I haul it. That’s the deal.” The green-haired man reminded her of their agreement when it comes to treasure hunting. “You still haven’t found it. So I’m sleeping.” He smiled smugly at her. “Bed’s too comfortable to pass.”

“It is huh?” Nami asked wryly.

 He tapped the spot next to him. “Try.”

 The cat burglar narrowed her eyes at his invitation.

“Don’t think you can trick me into getting in bed with you that easy.”

Zoro stared at her blankly. “I just said you’re free to check if this bed is really comfortable.”

Nami pursed her lips. Ok he had a point. But she had been with him long enough to know that the man had some tricks up his sleeve for getting her into bed with him.

Not that she’d say no…

Plus, she’d been walking in heels for quite some time now that her legs and feet actually hurt. Not to mention the all the effort she exerted wandering the dark hall without chickening out is taking its toll on her.

Maybe she could just… rest for a moment before resuming her hunt?

She slipped off her shoes. The mattress dipped lower when she brought her legs up to the bed and settled down beside him.

Besides Zoro looked like he prefers to sleep than do naughty things with her.

Heck! Like they could honestly have sex in a rumored haunted place. That’s just… weird.

Nami let out a contented sigh as the soft sheets and fluffy pillows welcomed and relaxed her body in the most satisfying way.

Damn he is right. It is comfortable!

Beside her, Zoro chuckled at her reaction.

“Alright it is comfortable here,” she conceded but not without a pout.

 He had an ‘I told you so’ look on his face.

“Better than scouring for the treasure?”

“Nothing will beat treasure Zoro.”

“Fine.”

She turned to her side so she was facing him. “I will get my hands on that treasure Zoro. We are not leaving this place until I do.”

“Then send Luffy on a rampage. He has an uncanny luck when it comes to stumbling upon those things.”

“Hmmm… I don’t think I need to…” she answered. “I think he’s already running amok the moment we entered this place.”

“We just need to wait for it then.”

“Hmmm…”

They fell silent for a moment. The candles continued to flicker and burn at the far end of the room.

“Hey, you look dapper,” Nami murmured softly after a few seconds of quiet. The fingers of her hand played with the buttons of the dark green vest she made him wear earlier along with the black coat he had long discarded.

“I have no idea what you mean.”

Nami smiled. Of course he doesn’t. Zoro has like… a limited vocabulary when it comes to compliments.

“I mean you look very gentlemanly.”

“You made me wear this. Forced to be exact.”

“Because I know you’ll look absolutely good in it.”

She watched the corners of his lips quirk up in amusement.

It didn’t take really much to coerce him to don the suit. Probably because Zoro knows his efforts to fight her is all for naught and he would still end up doing whatever she wants.

Plus she did sweet-talk him that she would take it off him once the night is over.

Her body trembled when she felt him lean closer, his lips barely brushing against hers.

A roguish smirk was on his face as he brought his fingers up to slowly trace her exposed collarbone.

Nami closed her eyes as she savored the warm, calloused fingers touching her skin. They gradually move to her neck, playing slightly with the black lace choker she have on before his hand grasped her nape roughly.

“You did say you’re gonna… take these off me?” Zoro whispered against her lips.

She opened her mouth to speak. To tell him that yes, she did say that.

But the words never left her as she began to feel the familiar shivers running up and down her body whenever she’s intimately close to him like this. The skin behind her neck prickled… sending warm, tingling sensations across her cheeks.

Zoro was looking at her intensely.

“I did say that,” she managed to whisper.

“What are you waiting for then?”

Nami’s jaw almost dropped open in surprise.

Was he suggesting that they have sex right here, right now?

Right in this room of a rumored haunted castle?

She studied his face to see if he was serious.

Oooh… for the love of… HE IS!

The salacious glint in his eye sent a spark of thrill rushing inside her veins. She was never one to deny him when he is looking at her like that.

“You actually want to have sex right here, right now?” Nami voiced out her thoughts in an incredulous tone. “In this probably haunted room, in this rumored haunted place?”

“Why not?”

“Uh… because this place is haunted?”

“You actually believe that?”

Nami pushed herself up on the bed. “We’ve meet zombies and a skeleton Zoro. I’m not drawing the line with ghosts. Can’t you just wait ‘til we get back to the Sunny?”

“I actually can.”

“Good. Please try to keep it in your pants for now.” Nami chastised him. “We still need to look for the treasure.”

“Fine. Go ahead and look for it. Wake me up when you find it.”

“You’re not coming with me?!”

“You’re not going to stop pestering me are you?”

“No.”

With an unhappy grunt he relented. “Come on.”

“Yes!” Nami cheered. Honestly, she loves the perks of being with the swordsman. Especially now that Zoro rarely—actually, almost never—says no to her requests anymore and she doesn’t need to resort to blackmailing him.

She gave him a wide grin. Zoro in turn just rolled his eye at her.

Nami immediately sat up. She was literally buzzing with excitement and Zoro couldn’t help it as the corners of his mouth quirked up. He had long realized that it’s much easier to just give in to Nami’s obsession with treasure than fight it. Less head bumps for him too.

“Let’s go!” The navigator announced as she nudge his still prone position.

“Not afraid of the dark?” Zoro asked teasingly as patiently waited for him to move, looking like an excited child.

“You’re with me now,” Nami cheekily pointed out.

And he had to admit. She got him there. And the way she was looking at him was really endearing. Her warm brown orbs were sparkling… they were bright with exhilaration despite dim light of the room.

Nami... is really pretty.

“Hey…”

“Hmm?”

“Come here first,” Zoro said as he reached out to pull her towards him. His lips touched hers tenderly, surprising Nami. His kisses were usually rough and intense. It was always like he was restraining himself for some time before finally giving in to his desire to touch her.

She returned his kiss ever-so-gently. Their mouths moved unhurriedly… keeping it as innocent as possible and just savoring the way they feel against each other.

Yet it was hard to keep it that way. Not when they both moved to press their bodies closer to each other. 

And when her hand slowly begin to caress the tight muscles of his chest through his shirt, Zoro automatically deepened their kiss, his fingers tangling through her hair as he began to coaxed her mouth to allow him entrance.

That she did. Parting her lips to let his tongue play with her own, her hand grasped at the front of his shirt as she gave him more access to her mouth.

A soft moan reverberated against her throat. Zoro took it as his cue to stop and drew back so he can study her. He secretly love the way she looks right after a kiss—her gaze unfocused yet there was a certain spark of want in them, a certain desire for him that set everything inside him on fire.

Her soft lips were parted as she gazed at him, like it was inviting him for one more kiss… and he would always, always indulge her.

He captured her lips with his again.

This time their kiss is more heated, more intense, as if they are building into something. Nami shifted in her position, draping her body over him.

“Zoro,” she whispered, stopping their kiss, her lips a hairsbreadth away from his.

“What?” He asked, his voice husky from desire.

Nami gave him a mischievous grin. “I think I want to take you up on that offer.”

His brows furrowed. “What offer?”

She didn’t answer. Instead she pushed away from him.

Nami kept her eyes locked on his as she moved to straddle him, the skirts of her black gown bundled around her. Her hand trailed over his vest, tracing its lapels before moving her attention to its buttons.

Her hands deftly unbuttoned his vest. Once done she turned her attention to his tie, unknotting it. She pulled at the sash around his waist, throwing it carelessly towards god-knows-where.

She was the one who helped him put them on earlier and she absolutely adores the idea of helping him take them all off.

Because honestly she loves undressing Zoro. She absolutely love the way his firm muscles were exposed one by one for her eyes to savor, for her mouth taste, for her lips to leave marks on that he doesn’t even bother to hide as he did his work-outs out in the open without any shirt. 

She heard his breath hitched slightly when she pushed the unbuttoned garments to the side. Her hands started caressing the rock-hard muscles of his abdomen before moving up to the tight muscles of his pectorals.

Damn. He feels so hard and so good against her fingers.

Underneath her, it seems like Zoro had had enough of her teasing touches. His hands grabbed at her waist to pull her closer to him to make her feel just how much he wanted her right here, right now.

Nami gasped when she settled just right above his hardness. Her fingernails raked against his exposed chest at the sensation. When Zoro began to drag her hips to rub her against him, a moan escaped her lips.

She threw her head back; just a Zoro sat up. He took her movement as an invitation to suck at the exposed skin of her collarbone. His lips were warm, his tongue wet and hot as her fingers tangled through his green hair and her still clothed body rubbed against naked front.

Nami heard him growl lowly—probably a bit miffed that she was still fully clothed. She immediately cupped his face in her hands, drawing his lips to hers so she could pacify his impatience with an open-mouthed kiss.

It distracted him even for just a bit. His hands were already searching for a way to get her out of her garments. With one hand, she guided his own to the zipper on the back of her dress before Zoro decides to rip it apart.

From the way he pulled at it… she wouldn’t be surprised if her gown did end up torn into two.

She squealed in surprise when he suddenly shifted their position and rolled her down the bed. Kneeling between her legs, he instantly pulled the dress off her. She could swear she heard a slight tearing sound before he threw it to the side.

“Careful Zoro!” She still managed to chastise him and give his arm a slight kick, even as she was now down to just her lacey thongs and lace thigh-high stockings in front of him. “I still need to wear that!”

“Just put it in my tab!” He grinned wickedly at her letting his eye roam all over her exposed body, taking in everything he is seeing. She can feel her nipples hardening at the intensity of his gaze. She watched as the corners of his lips twitched upwards slightly indicating that he knows she was getting turned on.

Nami mock-pouted even as she playfully rubbed her leg against his thigh, watching him as he slid the unbuttoned vest and shirt off him, finally exposing that delectable, well-sculpted body of his.

She licked her lips. He was looking back at her with a smug smile on his face, apparently liking the way she was observing him.

And just to yank at his chain, she slid her fingers on the straps of her lacy underwear, slowly pushing it past down her hips. Nami lifted one leg, letting the garment dangle on her ankle as her toe touched the middle of his chest.

She could see his jaw clenched at her antic. Still he grabbed it off her feet, crumpling it in his hand before throwing it somewhere. 

Nami giggled. He doesn’t like it when she beats him in taking off her underwear.

“Take this off too,” Nami requested in a seductive tone as she teasingly traced the muscles of his chest down to his abdomen with one stockinged foot. She wiggled her foot slightly at him.

Zoro gripped her ankle with one large hand putting a stop at her ministration.

“I think I want to leave it on.”

Well fuck!

Nami felt her heart thundered against her chest at his tone. There was something about the way he said it that made delicious sensations raced up and down her spine. She can only imagine how she looked with nothing but just the lace choker and black lace stockings on… 

“You look so hot right now,” Zoro said, his tone gruff yet thick with desire.

She felt like everything inside her just exploded at that and an excited moan escaped from her.

How in the world can he make something as simple as that sound so… erotic?

Kami, that sounded delicious. His voice made it more delicious.

That actually felt delicious.

He still hadn’t done anything on her besides kiss her senseless and undressed her…

…and damn she was already panting so hard right now!

“Zoro…”

He reached out to touch one of her breast, thumb rolling her nipple and Nami moaned. Her back arching, her body wanting to be touch by him more.

He leaned down leaned down to kiss her again, covering her body with his own heated one.

His hand continued playing with her breast as their kiss turned into an open-mouthed one.

All her reservations earlier about how it was neither the right time, nor the right place for this dissipated instantly when Zoro settled on top of her. The mattress dipped down from the weight of their bodies. Neither of them paid any attention to it as their lips found each other again and again, in a kiss so heated it made the room feels like it’s been set on fire.

The unconventionality of it all was making really hot and exciting. The combination was quite overwhelming. She could not explain it but the idea of doing it in a rather unusual place… it was actually titillating as fuck and it was turning her on so much.

Besides, Zoro wouldn’t be up too it if this place is dangerous, right? Also his domineering aura is enough to frighten anyone both dead and alive.

Her breath hitched when she felt him sucking at the skin behind her ear. She threw her head to the side, moaning as she gave him more access to her skin. Her hands clutched him almost desperately as his lips moved down the deep valley of her breasts, tongue trailing a wet path against her skin.

“Ah!” She cried out when his mouth latched on one of her breasts, his tongue tickling her already hardened nipple. It sent electricity running down her core and she instinctively spread her legs so she can wrapped it around his hips, her already wet entrance settling on his still covered hardness.

“Zorooo,” she whined. ”Why do you still have your pants on?”

“Shut up,” The man above her grunted, letting go of her breast. “Just let me work on you.”

She let out a disgruntled groan. Of course that didn’t stop her from rubbing herself against him just to spite him.

Zoro chuckled at her attempt and stilled her hips with one hand.

“Settle down Nami. I’ll give you what you want.” He said teasingly. He gave her hips a light squeeze before naughtily tracing her slit with one finger.

Nami let out a small moan at that, edging her body closer to his touch.

Her tease of a swordsman just continued with his ministration, touching only the edge of her lower lips, never delving in to touch her where she wanted to be touched.

She sobbed in frustration.  Her hands gripping his arms, making sure her fingernails dug into his skin in a sort of retaliation.

Zoro just let out a small laugh at her feeble attempt to get back at him. Without another word, he seized both of her legs, hooking his hands under her knees so he can spread her widely.

“I want a taste Nami.”

That was all the caution he gave her before burying his face between legs.

Nami’s eyes rolled to the back of her head when his tongue delved way past her soaked lips, going straight to lick and suck her clit. Her hands grabbed at the bed sheets, hard enough that her knuckles turned white. Her body arched at the sensation and she could swear she had forgotten how to breathe.

“F-fuck… that feels sooo good,” she managed to rasp when she was finally able to catch her breath. “Uhhh… Zoro!”

“Stay in that position.” He ordered as he let go of his grip under her knees. And Nami obeyed, choking back a sob when he used both of his thumbs to spread her pussy so he can explore her more with his tongue.

Good Kami… she knew how he religiously trained his mouth along with his whole body since he uses it to hold one of his katanas. But that didn’t prepare her at all when she realized during one of their heated sessions that this man can eat her out for hours without getting tired.   

Her breast heaved up and down, in time with the way his tongue was flicking against her clit. The repeated tingling sensation in her core was making her thighs shake, her stomach contract, her body reaching its limit…

Nami’s hands made a grab for his hair, pushing his face deeper to her so she can finally feel that sweet release.

“Zoro… I’m…”

And just like that she exploded on his mouth.

A loud moan escaped her, just as her body fell back on the bed, going limp as she caught her breath again.

Fuck that was rather earth-shaking. The hell if they did it here in a rumoured haunted place.

Right now she doesn’t give a damn about it.

She furtively glanced at Zoro with half lidded eyes. The man looked like he had conquered something. He was looking all pleased with himself, licking his lips like he couldn’t get enough of her taste.

“I’m not done yet Nami.” He reminded her as he unbuttoned his pants, pulling the zipper down.

Nami caught a glimpse of his manhood. Hard and erect and all for her.

She weakly pushed herself up and crawled towards him, knowing how Zoro likes it when she warms him up with her mouth before he fucks her.

He surprised her by touching a finger on her forehead and pushing her back on the bed.

“You can do that some other time,” Zoro said with a mischievous grin she only sees on him when they are alone together.

Nami fell down the mattress with a soft ‘thump’, still boneless from her climax from before.

But it seems like she’s not getting any rest. For the moment Zoro got her on her back again; his hands automatically hooked themselves under her knees, spreading her legs wide before pushing his cock into her as deep as he can go.

This time Nami almost screamed at the feeling of suddenly being filled. Her wet walls contracted making Zoro hiss in pleasure.

She arched her back but Zoro just pushed on her knees to keep her in place.

Her hands made a grab for the sheets again, clutching it firmly as if her life depended on it when he started to rock against her.

Nami can only voice out her pleasure in time with the movement of their bodies. She was gripping the sheets too tightly she might was well tore them.

Above her Zoro continued pounding into her mercilessly. He breast bounced up and down as the bed creaked under them.

“Ah! Ah! Ah! Zoroo! Uuuh!” she moaned out loudly, not caring if anyone hears them. “So good!” She threw her back, her eyes closing so hard that she can see explosions.

“I’m coming!” She squealed, feeling heat coiling in her abdomen again, threatening to burst anytime.

Zoro continued thrusting into her, his rhythm never breaking, hitting that same spot over and over again that made her toes curl so much. He watched her body stiffened momentarily before he felt her bursting all over him—warming him and making him almost cum.

He slowed his movements. He watched as Nami came down from her high, there was a glint of tears at the corners of her eyes from too much pleasure.

She was a goddamn sight.

For brief moment, Nami did not move. She honestly thought her mind and body went numb from that orgasm. A few seconds later she managed to open her eyes and stare at Zoro who was looking at her with an amused grin on his face.

She found the strength to huff at him and his conceitedness at pleasuring her even if a satisfied smile spread on her lips.

“You good?” He rasped, rubbing her thighs as she nodded weakly.

“Cause I’m still not done yet.”

Her eyes widened. Zoro was still inside her—hard as ever.

With a smirk, he rolled them over to switch their places so she was now on top of him, even if she was still drained and weak from earlier.

“Zo—ooh…” Nami almost shrieked when he started shoving himself inside her more deeply than before. She was still so sensitive and yet the way her green-haired lover was ramming into her had pleasure building inside her all over again.

“Ooh fuck,” she threw her head back, as her fingernails clawed at the skin of his chest. She can feel the tears welling up her eyes again from too much pleasure. His hands were grabbing the cheeks of her ass, kneading them roughly as he continued to bounced her and thrust inside her.

“Zoro! I’m—” A sobbed escaped her as she felt herself climaxing again. “Oooooh. Oooh Fuck!”

“Nami!”

He exploded inside her, exactly the same time she did. Her third orgasm combined with the warm sensation of his seed filling her up made her see stars and explosions. And she could swear her soul almost left her body.

He was still pumping into her—slowly, lazily—as he emptied every last drop of him inside her.

Nami fell on top of him. Her head nearly hitting him straight in the nose.

Zoro’s chest rumbled with laughter as she caught her breath again for the umpteenth time that night.

“I can’t believe you.” Nami whined while they basked in the afterglow.

“What?”

She tilted her head to look at him. Just like her, Zoro was still panting, trying to recover from that exhausting session.

“This is still a haunted castle you know. What if a ghost suddenly appear right in the middle of our sex?!”

Zoro stared at her incredulously. “There are no ghosts here Nami.”

“Zeus can’t zap ghosts Zoro! And you can’t cut them that’s for sure.”

“He can’t because they don’t exist,” Zoro drawled with a lazy grin. “Besides, I don’t think it really matter. You’re pretty much in the zone earlier nothing can stop you. You don’t even care about this place being haunted or those stupid ghosts at all. Which again, doesn’t exist.”

She smacked his forehead lightly. And he only chuckled at her, wrapping an arm around her waist, tucking her head under his chin.

He kissed her forehead lightly.

“Great sex Nami.”

“Mmm…” the navigator hummed as she weakly whacked his arm that was now slippery with sweat. “I think I scratched you good.”

“I’m used to it.”

Nami just snickered. She cuddled closer to him, resting her head on his chest, basking in the short period of silence they usually fell into right after sex as they both recovered.

“Zoro,” she called to him after a few minutes of silence. She lifted her head a little so she can look up at him. “Are you good?”

“Huh? Why? You want to go again?”

“No you idiot! Come on we still have to look for the treasure!”

“Hey! We have a deal right? You find it, I haul it.”

Nami pouted. She didn’t bother pointing out that he already agreed to go search with her earlier before they ended up tangled in bed.

With a sigh she relented, dropping her head on Zoro’s chest. Honestly, she still doesn’t have enough energy to get up and dress herself.

Maybe a few more minutes in bed with her lazy swordsman…

Somewhere, the sinister chiming of an old antique clock filled the whole castle as it struck twelve.

Midnight has approached.

Nami lazily lifted her head from Zoro’s chest at that. “That is fucking creepy.”

Her lover stayed prone on the bed, one hand pillowed behind his head, the other still stroking her naked behind as he yawned.

Nami nudged his feet with her own to get his attention. “Hey remember what the mayor said about this place once midnight approached?”

“What about it?”

“I think I heard something outside.”

“It’s probably just Luffy or Usopp.”

“It sounded like someone is screeching.”

“Definitely Usopp.”

Suddenly another scream sounded out. Followed by another screech. Then a loud thud and a crash that reverberated across the whole expanse of the old castle.

“LUFFY!!!”

Chopper and Usopp’s voices can be heard shouting.

Nami and Zoro just stayed put, listening to the ongoing commotion as their crew began to trash the whole place.

“Minna!!!!” Luffy’s cheerful voice rang across the floors… surprisingly quite near the room where Zoro and Nami are.

Both pirates looked at each other knowingly. It was their cue to fix themselves before their captain barges in and find them still lounging on the bed, naked.

“I found it!” The rubber man was shouting. “I found the treasure!!! Where is Nami?!!!”

[eirist]

Treading Uncharted Waters

HOT FOR YOU

One-shot #: 3

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: M

Note: PWP. I just badly need a ZoNa NSFW. And I know I’m not the only one. This is set in AU and it’s from a multi-chaptered fic idea that I would probably never find time to write.

Anyway enjoy! Minors stay away. You’ve been warned. Same goes for those who don’t like smut.

Summary: “Ah, Zoro,” she murmured, lips quirking in amusement. “You’re quiet. Cat got your tongue?”

“Hey! You’re back!”

Zoro nodded in response to the cheerful voice that greeted him the moment he stepped inside the house. Carelessly dropping his gym bag beside the couch, he did a double take at the sight of the orange-haired woman in his kitchen casually rummaging inside his fridge.

He watched her for a moment, surprised that she was actually there. “Why are you here?”

"Huh?” Nami straightened up and frowned at him. “What do you mean why am I here?”

Zoro sighed before muttering ‘never mind’. He unzipped his post workout jacket and tossed it on the back of the chair near him. He just came from the gym and wasn’t really expecting her company when he got back home.

He should’ve known this was going to happen when he gave her a spare key to his house.

Nami was looking at him quizzically. “You don’t want me here?” She queried with her brows furrowed and arms akimbo, her displease evident in her tone. 

“Didn’t say that,” Zoro replied before plopping down the couch to kick off his shoes and remove his socks. It wasn’t really a tiring day. But somehow he had an inkling that it will be once this conversation with Nami takes a wrong turn.

Said woman just childishly blew a raspberry at him before turning her attention back to his fridge. Three seconds later, a beer can was flying towards him.

He caught it with one hand.

Zoro threw a big, appreciative grin her way. “Thanks!”

Nami just shrugged and grabbed another one for herself, popping the can open and taking a nice long sip from it.

Zoro did the same with his.

Damn that feels great after a long workout. 

He kept an eye on Nami from the rim of his beer can as he continued drinking. Her attention was back inside his fridge again, doing Kami-knows-what.

He honestly thought she was busy today. He accidentally saw her planner yesterday and every damn hour was filled with something she meant to do—like shop for new furniture, shop for new outfits, shop for shoes, meet Usopp, pick up new paint colors for her office and bedroom with Usopp, rope Usopp into painting her office and bedroom (free of charge of course, the poor guy), yada, yada. So he wasn’t really expecting her in his house, digging inside his fridge…

Zoro straightened up a little so he could see her more clearly.

…in that super short shorts and sexy crop top that leave little to his imagination.

He clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth. Trust Nami to walk around his place in a really skimpy outfit.

Not that he’s complaining. It was a damn sight for the eyes. Plus, he had already given up all restraint he had on physically admiring her when they started dating. 

Now he can shamelessly ogle at her but only behind closed doors and only when it's just the two of them.

He tossed back his remaining beer just as Nami made her way towards him with two new cans. She handed him one, knowing he’d finish his first in one go.

Zoro smirked as he took it from her. “Is this the reason why you are rummaging inside my fridge? Don’t you have your own stocks chilling in your own?”

Nami huffed as she settled down next to him and made herself at home by propping her feet up on the coffee table. “I was planning to do a grocery run today since I still have some time and thought I should check if you need anything too.”

He cocked an eyebrow at her. “It’s already past eight.” 

“So? Store doesn’t close until ten right? You need anything?”

Zoro opened the new beer can and took a hefty swig before mumbling,

“Hiyori actually brought over some last weekend.”

Nami stopped halfway to bringing her own drink to her lips and gave him a sideway glance. Then her mouth exaggeratedly formed an ‘o’.

“Ooooh! You mean your other girlfriend?”

She was teasing of course. Zoro knew that. But still, he detected a bite in her tone—like a calm before the storm, a warning of some sorts.

It was very rare for him to feel a tad bit nervous. But right now, he can sense its ugly head rearing.

He gulped down the remaining contents of his beer to push that unwanted sensation away before grunting, “I only have one girlfriend.”

Nami’s grin widened at what he said and she pressed closer to his side, tucking her legs under her. He gave her a wary glance, even as his arm automatically wrapped itself around her, palm resting against the soft skin of her bare waist. 

“Aaaw… don’t worry Zoro,” she cooed, kissing his cheek. “I can share you. She can have you on Mondays and Tuesdays."

He scowled at her and she just laughed at him.

"You do know that she only did that because Kuina asked her to. And you can’t just say no to that woman when she tells you to do something.”  

“Uh-huh, I know.” Nami nodded. “Just keep telling yourself that.” She patted his shoulder in a condescending way.

“Tch!”

“Don’t scowl so much Zoro,” Nami pinched his cheek. “Aren’t you glad that there are other girls that want to take care of you? I know I am."

“No.”

She threw her head back and laughed loudly. “You’re such a grouch.” She pinched his cheek again and this time Zoro grabbed her wrist to stop her from pulling at his face.

“Damn it! Stop that!” He growled as she continued sniggering, moving away from him and settling back on the couch, feet up the table again, so she can finish her drink.

“It's not that bad Zoro," she grinned widely at irritated expression on his face. "Saves you the trouble of going out and getting hopelessly lost inside the grocery store."

"I don't get lost!" He retorted vehemently. 

"Right," Nami said sarcastically with a roll of her eyes. "Anyway, just tell your other girlfriend that you are about to ran out of beer.” She shook the can lightly before depositing it down the coffee table and grabbing the other. “She better get you some more,” she said before guzzling her second drink in pure delight.

Zoro looked like he was going to throttle her anytime soon and Nami just winked at him. 

He frustratingly ran a hand through his hair. Their conversation could go wrong in a lot of ways and he's not sure if he had enough energy to clash with her. It may appear as if she’s cool with it but he can see how her eyes had turned sharp enough to maim him.    

Zoro took the safest route he can think of to steer Nami to a different topic.  He sighed. “How about you stop pilfering from my stocks?”

She looked like she was pondering for a moment. “Hmmm… no. I kinda like this one from Shimotsuki. They don’t sell this brand here.”

Well, he definitely agrees with her on that. That's the reason why he kept pestering Kuina to include some in the groceries she regularly send over. 

“Fine. I’ll ask Kuina to send some for you as well.”

“Sure,” Nami agreed. “And maybe Hiyori can deliver it to me as well.” She suggested with a saucy wink.

Damn it all. How the hell did they circle back to that? 

Zoro glowered at her. He was not really amused by the way she kept teasing him.

Nami just snickered at his reaction.

He decided to stop playing nice and meet her head on. “Are you jealous?” He smirked and she watched her expression turned indignant.

“Me?!” She almost shrieked at him. “Do I look like I’m jealous?!”

From the way she reacted to that, he’d say yes. Definitely yes.

He just shrugged his shoulders and made a grab for her beer.

“I am not jea— Zoro no!” She shouted when he snatched it away from her hand and she lunged towards him to get it back.

He held it out of her reach as she tried to crawl over him and grinned evilly when she failed to grab it, the difference in their arm length giving him the advantage.

Not to mention that he also slyly used the arm he had around her waist to keep her in place.

“Give it back Zoro!”

 “No.”

Desperately, she tried to edge up and closer to their goal but failed so miserably. Zoro had her pinned against his body in a vice-like grip.

The orange-haired woman squirmed on top of him so he’d loosen his hold on her. She damn knows his arm strength well enough to discern that it was a fruitless effort.

But Nami was feisty enough to not give up without a fight.

With one last effort, she tried to jerk her body forward again, throwing all her weight and strength in that movement…

…and she finally succeeded in wrestling her beer away from Zoro’s grasp.

“Hah!” She smirked triumphantly holding the can up like a prized trophy. Zoro just rolled his eye at her. She suddenly swatted his shoulder. “You take back what you said!”

“No,” Zoro drawled.

“Why you…!”

Something suddenly popped and an object dropped down Zoro’s chest and his eye regarded it curiously.

It was followed by another.

He glanced up at Nami questioningly and she in turn was staring in aghast at the front of her top before her eyes riveted on the buttons that fell on Zoro’s chest.

Oh so that was it.

“My top!” Nami screeched when she realized that the popping sound came from her crop top’s buttons tearing out from where they were sewn.

Before he can stop himself, Zoro burst out laughing.

“Hey!” She whacked him on the shoulder again. Her eyes lowered to her top again.

Only one button was remaining and it was also on the verge of popping out as well, unable to hold her… generous assets.

“This is your fault!” She hissed at him, letting out a groan as she stood up. It was such a cute top. She liked it a lot. Plus it was really comfortable even if she did notice when she put it on earlier that the buttons were struggling to contain her a bit.

But Nami honestly didn’t think they’d give up just like that. Must be because of their tussle earlier. 

Zoro was still chuckling at her expense and she kicked his leg while he took advantage of her distraction and grabbed the beer from her hand again.

“You need to change sizes Nami,” he chuckled, earning another kick from her. He was actually finding this quite funny. Nami always had a knack for wearing tight fitting or sometimes even skimpy clothes that leave little to his imagination.

He wasn’t really bothered by it and he didn’t really give it that much thought. She had a great body and if she wanted to flaunt it, he was not going to stop her.

Besides he can’t say he didn’t appreciate it—especially when she’s almost spilling out from that poor excuse of a top. The view was great after all.

Damn, being with her had turned him into some kind of a depraved pervert always wanting to take a peek or catch a glimpse of something that should be covered.

He finds himself asking over and over again, why it took them this long to finally decide to be together. It would’ve saved him from turning into someone who’s always craving to touch her and be touched by her.

Well… she was touching him alright right now. Nami was hitting him on the arm after what he had said.

“What the hell do you mean by that?” Nami was saying through gritted teeth, emphasizing each word with a punch on his arm. “Are you saying I’m fat?!”

“Hey!” Zoro stopped gulping down the beer he nicked from her, keeping it away from harm’s reach. “Not really.”

“Not really?!!”  Oh mister, you don’t know how high your debt just sky rocketed!”

He bristled at that. “What the hell do you mean?! My debts are all clear!”

“It just got renewed!” She snarled at him.

“Give me a break Nami.”

“No.”

“Look, all I’m saying is that…” his eye zeroed in on her chest. “It can barely hold them together.” He callously pointed at breasts.

Nami hit him again.

This time he caught her arm, discarding the now-empty beer can at the lamp table beside him. He better stop her before she decides to go on a rampage. As much as he was having fun riling her up as retaliation to all her teasing earlier, a raging Nami is kinda hard to pacify.

He tugged her nearer to him, his thumb making soothing circles on her wrist—a gesture he discovered that strangely calms her down.

He liked to think… that she’s a sucker for his touch as well.

“Come here,” he beckoned, pulling at her gently so she was standing right in front him, their knees almost touching.

Surprisingly, Nami conceded. Her ire dissipating as he continued his ministrations on her wrist before bringing it to his lips for a kiss.

“You owe me a new top.” She sulkily said.

“Fine.” He agreed easily not bothering to fight her on it. He doesn’t want to spend the whole evening with her in a bad mood. It was not really what he had in mind. “Lucky you weren’t outside when this happened, imagine the commotion you’ll make.”

A small smile pulled at the corners of her lips.

“Why are you even wearing that?”

Nami gazed down her now ruined top dejectedly. “Because it’s cute and it’s a bit hot today.”

“From the looks of it now, it won’t last til the end of the day.”

She narrowed her eyes at him. Then sighed disappointedly. “Yeah you’re right.”

Zoro smirked. “I am?”

She didn’t look happy that he almost sound like he’s gloating. He was rarely right or so she claims.

“I got shirts you can use if you want,” he offered, grinning as he released her hand.

“Thanks I guess,” Nami mumbled glumly. As much as she love wearing his t-shirts because they have this certain scent that was so him, it takes a lot of folding and tucking just to get some shape on her.

Zoro lightly squeezed her thigh, a silent gesture that she can go ahead and changed.

“Well I better take you up on that offer…”

With a quick flick of her fingers she undid the remaining, surviving button and took off her top without another word.

And Zoro immediately fell silent at the sight of her naked breasts before him.

Damn this woman! She wasn’t wearing anything underneath that stupid top of hers. Now everything was just out there for him to look at.

Damn it all to hell and fucking back.

Everything was suddenly tight… and hot. The living room where they were seemed stifling.

He took a deep breath… a very deep breath before his gaze met hers.

“Ah, Zoro,” she murmured, lips quirking in amusement. “You’re quiet. Cat got your tongue?”

Zoro never had a womanly part that he considered his favourite. Breasts, ass, a small waist, slender hips, a pretty face… whatever it is, if it’s nice he looks, even admires for a few lingering seconds and that was it. He never dwelled on it or even given it a second thought.

But trust Nami to obliterate that in one instant—the very first time he had her naked on his bed.

Now he looks, he admires. Even dwells and gives it more than a second thought…

…every damn part of her.

And the enthralling witch  knew it. She knew the effect she had on him…

…because there was now a haughty smirk gracing her lips as she looked down on him.  

Nami lifted her arms and slowly flipped her hair back, the movement making her luscious breasts bounce slightly.

And his fingers dug deep into her skin as he watched her little show.

She bent down, resting both of her hands on his thighs, her arms pushing her breasts up as she brought her face closer to his. “Like what you see?”

He didn’t answer her, yet the grip he still had on her tightened.

“Of course you do,” Nami answered for him as she leaned down some more and almost closing the space they have between them. “You always do.” She tapped his cheek with her finger.

“Guess I better go and get one of your shirts like you said.” She deliberately let her lips linger just above his—like the tease that she is—knowing how it turns him on when she does that.

“Go ahead then,” Zoro drawled, finally responding to her teasing. Oh he knows what she’s up to of course. He is so familiar on how her devious mind works. On how she loves getting a rise out of him whether in anger, or as of recent, in desire.

The hand on her thigh trailed up slowly to rest on her waist, his thumb caressing the dip of it softly, tickling her skin, as a smug smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

Two can play the same game. He didn’t make any move to kiss her no matter how close she was. Nor will he stop her from getting one of his shirts to cover herself up and conceal her glorious breasts away from his gaze.

Hell he’s not going to let her win this battle.

But as much as he knows how Nami’s mind works, she definitely knows how his does too.

And she’s a much better player when it comes to a battle of the wills.

Nami then edged closer to him, climbing on his lap and straddling him. Her lips never touched his even if they are so near each others, her eyes never leaving his.

She pressed her naked breasts against his chest and he fought a groan from coming out.

“You’re playing hard to get Zoro,” her breath ghosted his ear when she whispered those words.

“Because you’re being a tease Nami.”

“Alright, I’ll stop,” she relented easily, surprising the man under her.

Nami gave up just like that? What in the world is hap—

Zoro inhaled sharply when her hand easily found its way down the front of his running shorts…

…and squeezed him lightly.

“Hmm? You’re already this excited?” She observed, eyeing him amusedly. “That’s more like it then.”

She didn’t waste any time and slipped a hand inside his shorts so she could touch him.

That earned her a breathy ‘fuck’ from him.

She had the gall to wink before her hand slipped past his boxer briefs.

“Fuck… Nami,” he cursed when her hand found him.

It was warm and soft and it feels so good when she started rubbing him, her fingers playfully tracing the bulging veins of his shaft.

She let out a soft moan as she continued stroking him. Resting her forehead against him she murmured,

“You’re so hard already. I can’t wait to feel you inside me Zoro.”

Fucking hell! She almost destroyed him with that nice and clean. He nearly threw her down the couch so he can have his way with her. 

Nami suddenly withdrew her hand and he let out a disgruntled sound.

“Nami,” he groaned. “Don’t just stop.”

She giggled at his reaction. “Just stay still Zoro,” she playfully placed a finger on his forehead, pushing his head down the couch’s backrest. She placed a soft kiss on his cheek before climbing off his lap.

“Where are you going?”

She winked mischievously at him and he gave her a curious look. His grey eye darkened with lust when she knelt down in front of him, her fingers hooking on the waistband of his shorts. In one smooth move, she pulled it down along with his undergarment. His cock sprang out, already rock-hard from arousal.

“Nami…”

“Sssh. Didn’t I tell you to stay still?” Nami flashed him a naughty smile, her hand wrapping around his hardness, touching and stroking him again. She began pumping him slowly once, twice, her thumb playing with the tip of his cock, making a pre-cum leak out…

…before taking half of him in her mouth without warning.

Zoro’s leg almost jerked at the sudden warm sensation enveloping him. His hip twitched up involuntarily and he threw his head back feeling as if his whole body was suddenly lit on fire.

Damn. This. Woman!

Fuck!

When he felt her tongue started to swirl around him to wet his shaft some more so she could take it all in…

… for the life of him Zoro cannot hold back a moan.

Nami started moving her mouth up and down his cock, stopping to suck him every now and then, he was completely and utterly lost.

What did he do to deserve her? Nami was so fucking amazing with her mouth.

He was breathing heavily, almost in time with the movement of Nami’s head as she continued pleasuring him. Every single muscle in his body was tensing and contracting. The room suddenly felt so hot and Zoro peeled off his running tank, throwing it somewhere he doesn’t really care to know.

That didn’t help quell the heat that wants to engulf him.

He was huffing one minute and grunting the next. It was the only sound in the room, along with sucking and smacking sound Nami was making as she continued to blow him.

His toes were curling against the carpeted floor. Zoro ran his hand through his hair to prevent them from grabbing her head so he could fuck her mouth harder, faster.

His breath caught in his throat when Nami released him from her mouth with a soft pop. She blinked up at him with a seductive smile was on her face.

Zoro was panting heavily as he returned her gaze.

She opened her mouth slightly to run her tongue slowly against her lower lip.

Holy shit. She keeps bumping his list on the most sensual things he had seen in his whole damn life.

Nami suddenly stood up, eyes still locked on his.

“I like how you look right now,” she breathed. “So hot and heavy and needy for me.” She unbuttoned her shorts. Slowly, painstakingly she pulled it down, enjoying the way he was watching her.

She threw them aside but Zoro barely paid any attention to it. How can he look anywhere else when he just realized that Nami wasn’t wearing anything underneath it as well.

She climbed on his lap again, smirking down on him as her hand wrapped around his now throbbing cock.

“You’re so fucking hard Zoro. You’ll feel so good inside me.”

That was his only warning. That and the hurried way she slid the tip of cock on her slit before lowering herself down on his length, taking him all in without any resistance at all.

Fuck she was so wet and ready for him.

Nami threw her head back when he filled her, a throaty moan escaping her lips. Zoro in turn let out a curse, hands grabbing at her waist for leverage, his head reeling from the delicious sensation of suddenly filling her.

“Damn Nami you’re so wet I just slid right inside you,” he rasped.

“Ah Zoro…” she gasped when he started to bounce her up and down his hardness, not waiting for her to move. He’d been patient for so long—letting her tease him, letting her set the pace and do whatever she wanted.

He won’t wait anymore.

Her pussy greedily sucked him in every time he pushed back inside her. Her moans filled the room this time, louder than the grunts and huffs from him when she had him inside her mouth.

She was calling out his name at his every thrust. Her nails were clawing at his shoulders, at his arm but he paid it no mind. She can leave her fingernails marks all over him and he wouldn’t give a damn.

Zoro picked up his pace and he started pounding into her harder, determined bring her to edge without relinquishing the control he now has. Without letting her ride him like she initially intended because she likes being in control.

She can do it some other time. Like probably later.

Nami’s head was thrown back, mouth open as she continued moaning his name as he fucked her relentlessly. His fingers were digging deep into the skin of her waist, holding her in place as he watched his cock disappear again and again inside her.

“Zorooo…” she cried out when his arm went around her so he can pull her closer to him and push himself deeper into her. His mouth automatically latched on her breast, swirling his tongue around her nipple before sucking on it.

He felt her walls clenched around him at the addition of a new sensation. It sent pleasure shooting up his spine and he groaned her name. 

Nami desperately hang onto him, arms locking around his neck as she whimpered. “So close Zoro.”

“Yeah?”

“Y-yes!”

“Then come for me Nami.” He edged her on as he continued to rock into her. “Go on.”

“Yes, yes!” She moaned loudly, her grip on him tightening. One of her hands grabbed at his hair. “Zoro! I’m… ooooooh… oooh!”

And she come undone, her walls gripping him so tight, stars exploded behind his eye. She came so powerfully, so deliciously that he followed instantly, her name falling from his lips as he filled her.

“Nami…!”

“Uuuhm Zoro….”

They both slumped down the couch boneless and spent yet satisfied. Their bodies were still trembling at the aftermath of a damn good sex.

Catching their breaths they stared at each other, a tired smile tugging at their lips.

Nami giggled tiredly. “I can’t feel my legs.” She whispered voice still hoarse as she nuzzled her nose against his cheek.

Zoro stared at her amusedly. “You barely did any work.”

“Shut up.”

He wrapped his arms around her, drawing her close to him. She buried her face at the crook of his neck as he planted a soft kiss on her temple.

Nami lifted her head to look at him again.

“You still haven’t properly kissed me you know.”

Zoro raised an eyebrow at her then chuckled at her complaint. He still hasn’t, had he? They just went right into it without engaging in any liplock.

They really have a knack for some rather weird foreplays.

“Right. My mistake.” He tilted her chin with his finger so he can capture her lips in a leisurely kiss.

Even exhausted, she was able to return it eagerly. She ran a hand through his hair, her fingers massaging his scalp lightly, relaxing him.

It was her way of making up for pulling at his hair earlier while in the throes of bliss.

They continued exchanging light, lazy kisses. Zoro shifted slightly so he can slip out of her, earning a disappointed groan from Nami.

He laughed. “Don’t worry Nami,” he pressed a kiss on her lips again. “I’ll fill you up again later.” He promised with a nip on her lower lip.

Nami rolled her eyes at him. “Never doubted that,” she said flippantly. “Just make sure you keep your word.”

“Tch! So demanding.”

She smiled sweetly at him even as she pinched his side.

“Ouch!”

Zoro playfully threw her down the couch and she yelped at the sudden brash movement.

“The hell Zoro! What was that for?!”

“For being cheeky,” he answered before lying down beside her, his arm wrapping around her waist to keep her from falling. His hand rubbing soothing circles her back and Nami sighed in bliss and contentment as she relaxed.

“Let’s just do your grocery run tomorrow.” Zoro suggested, kissing the top of her head. “We’ll probably won’t be able to make it anyway.”

“Aaw! You’re voluntarily coming with me?” Nami beamed a smile at him. “That’s just sweet.”

“Don’t make me change my mind.”

“No, no,” Nami hooked a leg on his hip to draw him closer to her, even if they were practically glued together. “Come with me.” She batted her eyelashes at him. “I need a pack-mule.”

“That’s convincing.”

Nami laughed, stealing a peck from his lips. “Thanks in advance.” She gave him that particular smile that he was secretly fond of since the moment he saw it years ago when they were still young and troublesome teenagers.

That was all he needed.

He kissed the top of her head again. “We’ll go first thing in the morning.”

Nami snickered. “First thing in the morning should be wake up sex Zoro. Not groceries.”

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

HAVE A DRINK WITH ME 

One-shot #: 36

Disclaimer: One Piece (and its characters) belongs to Eiichiro Oda-sensei.

Reminder: I have no beta-reader. Any grammatical and spelling errors are solely mine.

Warning: OOC possible. One shot.

Rating: T (A bit outright suggestive near the end because Zoro just can’t help himself.)

Note: Happy Birthday to our lovely navigator, the one and only cat burglar and weather queen! I was supposed to post a different story but decided to go for a lighter, PWP-ish one. Because I need to get this out of my system.

Summary: This time they definitely don’t need any drinking competitions or alcohol to do it.

Nami had always thought...

...that alcohol would be the one sole reason why something will happen between her and Zoro.

Something that will cross the imaginary boundary they both had unwittingly set between them right from the beginning. Totally dissolving it to nothing… completely eradicating its existence.

As if it’s never been there from the start.

It was during her birthday celebration when they first found themselves engaged in a serious and fierce one on one drinking competition after giving in to Usopp’s endless taunting that night that they would never find out who can really outdrink the other; given how they always seemed to knock back almost the same amount of alcohol at the festivities the crew usually attends or held.

That irked Zoro and made Nami smirk cockily. Whiskey Peak was never settled. And she was pretty confident she can outdrink him seeing how he always passes out while in the middle of drinking.

She haughtily accepted the challenge and much to her surprise, Zoro did too.

Well… pride was at stake and so were some belis…

With a barrel between them and the whole crew gathering around to watch and cheer their favorites, their drinking competition commenced.

Nami almost forgot that it was her birthday party because somehow it turned into the kind of merriment Zoro would appreciate if it was his special day.

Nonetheless she was having a blast—making fun of him, teasing and trying to put him one tankard behind her, mug after mug after mug amidst the shouts of their rowdy crew mates.

Their drinking prowess was inhuman as everyone in the crew soon realized that they were still at it even as the night wore on and the younger members of the crew settled down the lawn deck to sleep.

The older ones left them on their own knowing that in the battle of wills and pride, Zoro and Nami will not stop until the other is totally obliterated.

Nami was not sure how they went from squabbling in between drinks to actually relaxing and enjoying the alcohol between them as they shared stories and laughter from when they first met Luffy up until now that their crew had grown in number and strength and standing.

The fact that they were trying to drink each other under the table was forgotten just like that.

She was in the middle of laughing amidst the cacophony of snores coming from Luffy, Chopper and Usopp with her head thrown back and without a care in the world when her eyes caught Zoro’s.

He was looking at her intently, like he was scrutinizing her even if his face showed a slight hint of amusement at her antics.

And something just clicked inside Nami and she realized…

…something had just shifted between her and Zoro right at that very moment.

They originally started drinking while facing each other with a barrel between them.

And now they are so…

Close.

They nearly kissed that night.

Nearly.

It didn't happen though. A loud splash of water broke their trance. It was as if the cold liquid itself had drenched them and woke their senses up, sending them hurtling back to reality. Next thing they know, they were scampering towards the railing, immediately sobering up when they realized their idiot captain had stupidly fallen into the sea while sleepwalking and searching for meat.

That was the end of that.

They never tried to talk about it. Chalked it off to one moment of insanity produced by drinking barrels and barrels of alcohol just to best each other. Nami thought that it was just a one-time thing. A once in a lifetime occurrence.

But she was wrong.

Because ever since that night, whenever there was a party or a celebration of sorts or any festivities where the Straw Hat crew finds themselves in the center of…

…she and Zoro will find each other—to try and see who really drinks the most.

And who is brave enough to make the first move.

Because in all honestly. Their drinking competitions always end up in that certain moment where they are so close to each other that all Zoro needed to do was lean down some more and all Nami had to do was tilt her head up a little.

And they would kiss.

But that was it.

No kiss ever happened in all the times they had a drinking battle or even when they just casually drank with each other in some random bars on whatever island they were currently docked. 

Then in one, unexpected instant—their lives were turned upside down when they were all forcefully separated by a warlord.

Two years was a long time. And Nami was sure that that time apart had brought back the invisible, unspoken boundary she and Zoro had between them that they had been too reluctant to cross when they had the chance.

She was fairly certain that those two years had put a damper on what was going between them. They were young, a bit reckless and their adventurous and high spirits might just be the reason why they wanted to break down that barrier that keeps their relationship purely platonic.

Then… Fishman Island.

Nothing that happened before they were separated ever came so close to what took place while they were in that place.

When they finally and eventually got the chance to be alone with each other again for the first time in two years in that almost secluded and quiet steps of Ryugu Palace in Fishman Island (while she was taking a break from drinking and he was planning to nap in between)... 

...their lips almost touched.

Closer than it had ever been.

She can feel his breath, warm against her lips as he exhaled deeply. It caressed her face in the softest of all touches and she knew right there and then...

 ...that he had missed her.  

If it wasn't for Usopp suddenly appearing and loudly joining them with Chopper and Sanji in tow, Nami knew that they would finally have given in to that longstanding urge to kiss each other.

Still that was the last of that. Again. The moment they entered the New World, the crew had to go and separate into different group—too often for Nami's taste—so they could do what they meant to do.

And whatever celebration they had after reuniting every now and then, were fast and shadowed with current issues they had to deal with where lives and freedom were at stake.

There was no time to think about what was going on between her and Zoro. So she decided to finally leave it at that. They are in the New World after all and they both have more important things to consider. To do. To prioritize. Than what was going on between them.

So Nami decided to just let it all go.

Besides, if it really meant to happen. It will happen.

The festivities at the Flower Capital of Wano Country had finally dwindled down after days and days of celebration. Everyone was busy doing their own things now—some recuperating and relaxing while others are enjoying the long-awaited freedom and peace that was denied to them for so many years.

Nami was wandering around the shogun’s castle, stealthily looking for any treasure Orochi and his minions might have left. At the same time, she was enjoying the nocturne view of the country from the long corridor balcony. The entire capital below was highlighted under the glow of the full moon and it was exquisitely beautiful. 

She had stopped for a moment to savor the night air and the soft murmurs of movements and muffled voices from all over the castle and was actually surprised to see Zoro heading towards her.

He had probably just finished his training since he was coming from the lower floor where he and Momonosuke usually practiced their sword skills.

He gave her a nod when he saw her. And without another word, he joined her in her moon viewing.

And they both stayed there in the balcony—silent, contented and just watching the world outside them.

It was the first time they had the chance to be alone again since Fishman Island.

When you just came out of the biggest, most dangerous battle of your entire life—alive, still kicking and in one piece like they have—it kind of gives you a different perspective and makes you appreciate everything around you more. It makes you want to pull the people you cherish the most close to you and never let go.

Nami veered away from the scenery before her and so she can look at the green-haired swordsman.

Zoro looks so full of life now—a stark contrast to the man lying down on the futon a few days ago; pale, unconscious and heavily wounded.

A bandage was still wrapped around his head. Nami knew he still have wounds that need to heal. She should chastise him from going straight into training when he should be resting but she knows it’s just a waste of time.

Instead she reached out and softly touched his cheek, wanting to convey to him without words that she’s grateful that he is still here. That he and Luffy are still here.

That they are all still here.

When she finally moved, Zoro met her halfway.

And Nami instantly knew that their kiss is finally meant to happen.

She always thought they'd be drunk when they do kiss. They are always drinking whenever they find themselves in that certain moment before a kiss should happen. And she had it in her mind that they’d only get the courage to push further and finally do it because there is alcohol surging in their systems.

But here they are. All sober.

"Oi what are you thinking about?

Nami blinked as she was pulled out of her ruminations by that familiar drawl.

She pushed away from the Sunny's railing to look at the newcomer. She had quietly slipped away from the on-going celebration of her birthday for a fresh air. She had drunk a lot. A lot. With Jinbe know officially a member of their crew, the toasts just keep going and going.

Damn fishmen and their alcohol tolerance! Jinbe can hold his liquor much better than she or Zoro combined can! She took a deep breath before answering. "Nothing. Just taking a break," she tried to act nonchalant by shrugging her shoulders. Zoro chuckled. "Seems like you are at your limit." It was dark outside alright. But she can make out that certain glint in his lone, grey eye whenever he’s teasing her. She huffed. "Dream on. Don't even think you can best me. I can still go on." He laughed. "Still confident you can top me huh?"

Nami grinned cattily at that. "Oh Zoro. I know and you know that I can," she winked at him, deliberately letting the innuendo hang between them while trailing a finger down the uncovered part of his chest.

Zoro seemed to get it immediately much to her surprise because the grin on his face was shit-eating.

She cut-off any remark he had on that by poking him on the chest with her finger. “Why are you here anyway?”

“You were missed.”

She brightened up at that. “You mean you missed me?”

His only answer was a huff of his own. But she had become so good at reading him and the not-so-cleverly-hidden meaning of his words and actions. She knew she hit it spot on.

“Let’s go back,” he invited nodding towards the galley’s direction. “They’ll wonder where we are.”

“Let’s just let them,” she said cheekily. “We are not exactly hiding anything.”

He looked amused and brushed a swift kiss on her nose.

“It’s your birthday,” Zoro reminded her. “And you have birthday girl responsibilities.”

Nami raised an eyebrow at him. “Responsibilities?”

“Yeah. Like start a drinking competition.” He looked so happy with the idea that he can raid all their booze stock without being reprimanded by Sanji. “I’m getting impatient.”

She rolled her eyes at that. “Fine,” she grudgingly agreed. “Let’s go back and have our usual competition. I’ll beat your ass fair and square. You lose… I get all your allowances in the next three islands.”

Zoro just snorted at her claim and easily wrapped an arm around her waist, drawing her close. He planted a kiss on her temple. She giggled when his lips brushed against the shell of her ear before moving to kiss her fully.

This time they definitely don’t need any drinking competitions or alcohol to do it.

“Come on then,” Zoro said when he pulled away from her. He suddenly tugged her towards the stairs leading to the galley looking almost excited. “Let’s see if you’re really as good as you claim to be.” He was grinning menacingly at her.

Damn this man and his booze.

Nami groaned even as she let him cart her back to where she can hear the Luffy yelling ‘meat’ above the chatter of their crewmates’ voices.

She stopped him before he can push the door open.

"Be nice Zoro. It’s my special day,” she reminded him oh-so-sweetly so he’d go easy on her.

Zoro gave her a smug grin.

“Be nice Nami. I might let you sit on my face tonight for your special day."

His voice was low when he said that and it immediately sent Nami on fire—every single part of her being heating up at that.

 His grin was cocky as he opened the galley door before she can even retort, whispering ‘happy birthday’ in her ear, pushing her inside—back to her celebration, their crewmates and the Straw Hats signature chaos.