#chopper going to sleep relieved thinking it is a dream

[inpursuitofnunchi]

the subtitler understood the assignment

[holykillercake]

Tap Dancer Fish

word count: 1.5k

summary: Zoro´s haramaki is falling apart and he can´t find another one to buy. You decide to crochet him one before he kills someone. 

highlight: ¨You must be tired... stupid marimo.¨

notes: This was an anon request for a fluff where they have a s/o that made them a thing with crochet and how they would react. This is 1/3 of the request, we´re starting with Zoro <3 

𝕷𝖊𝖆𝖛𝖊 𝖈𝖔𝖒𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖙𝖘, 𝖗𝖊𝖖𝖚𝖊𝖘𝖙𝖘, 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝖑𝖔𝖛𝖊!

¨Any luck?¨ you asked without taking your eyes from the city guide, even with the rowdy sound of the metal chair scratching the brick sidewalk. 

¨No.¨ 

¨Need any help?¨ you tried to hide your smirk by sipping your coffee. 

¨No.¨

¨Well,¨ you closed the map and placed it on the table ¨I still have some errands to run. I´ll take a look around, see if I can find it. ¨ 

¨Thank you.¨

You placed a hand on his chest and gave him a quick peck on the lips before making your way back to your tasks. 

The Strawhats had docked on a Spring Island called Gardenia. It reminded you of Dressrosa, but without the talking toys and mad king. The houses and stores were all painted a shade of green or brown, but what made it extraordinary to the eyes - and nose - was the number of flowers. All kinds of all sizes and colors decorating everything around you. 

However, while you felt like an enchanted character from a fairy tale, your boyfriend felt trapped in a nightmare. For starters, everything smelled like flowers; Sanji would not stop bumping into him, saying that he mistook him for a moss tree, and the flowers made every corner look the same, so he got lost all the time. 

But what was really making him grumpier than usual was his haramaki, the green garment he wore religiously around his belly - well, not religiously. 

He has been procrastinating to get a new one for a long time, and despite you offering to purchase it whenever you ran errands, he would always turn the offer down. The problem was that it was not keeping itself anymore. After all the battles he fought and opponents he defeated, his haramaki was falling into pieces. 

In the beginning, you were able to patch it up with some simple sewing, but now he needed to get a new one. And here´s where problem number two arises, you have entered a chain of summer and spring islands where they don´t usually sell this stuff. As a result, Zoro was mad at everyone - you were an exception, though. 

It pained you to see him bothered like this, despite all of your previous warnings. Everyone has their own thing, Luffy has the straw hat, Chopper always carries his blue backpack, Sanji never stops smoking, and Zoro wears his haramaki. Anyone would be bothered, although anyone would listen to your advice. 

So you came up with a plan. Since you could not find one to buy, you were going to crochet one. That was an interesting fact that no one knew so far, your ability of crocheting. You would do it whenever you were in charge of the night watch, and when you presented someone with a piece of clothing that matched their personality or traits, you would say you found it in town. Reason being that you didn´t want to be swamped with sweaters and beanies to do. You knew the crew would go crazy if they didn´t have to pay for winter clothes anymore. 

¨Yosh, now I just have to make it.¨ you looked at the green ball of yarn in your hands before hiding it at the bottom of your bags. 

~

¨Oi, Luffy! Don´t steal her food!¨

¨But she´s not even eating it, Sanji!¨

¨Y/N, are you ok?¨

¨Y/N?¨

¨Y/N!¨ you almost fell off the chair when you woke up from your zombie state. 

¨What?¨ 

¨You look tired. Are you getting sick?¨ Robin asked, placing a hand on your forehead. ¨I hope you didn´t get some deadly poison from a plant.¨

¨Oi, Robin! Don´t say these scary things!¨ Usopp cried and walked away from you.

¨I couldn´t sleep last night.¨ the girls stared at you with a malicious smirk, and Sanji stormed out on flames ¨Yeah, uhum, I wish! I couldn´t sleep because Zoro kept rolling on the bed, it felt like I was sharing a bed with a tap dancer fish!¨ you shouted grumpily.

The longer he stayed without a decent haramaki, the more jittery he got. So throughout the night, he rolled on the bed, got up to train, went back to bed because he was too frustrated to train, mumbled and grumbled, and made you go through his insanity with him. At some point, you were planning on throwing him off the ship or choke him with that stupid belly warmer. 

After you finished your third cup of coffee, you decided to head to the deck. Your green-haired tap dancer fish was napping on the grass with furrowed brows and arms crossed. Suddenly, the irritation you felt was gone. 

¨You must be tired... stupid marimo.¨ you whispered and made your way to your room. 

He never bothered you before. Even when the other guys made him go crazy, he would always lay down, hold you close to his body, and sleep. On the days you were not so tired, pillow talks would last hours and hours, and he would tell you things he hasn´t told anyone; he would show interest in the stupid things you like and be the Zoro the other guys would never get to know. 

So you fought your will to go to sleep and grabbed the wool and a hook, determined to put an end to both of your miseries as soon as possible. 

With Zoro napping all day, Robin in charge of the ship, and the rest of the guys exploring the Island, you would have all the peace in the world to work. 

And that was exactly what you did. You were definitely going to hear from Chopper for going the entire day without a sip of water or bathroom break. Your fingers were red and hurting, and your shoulders were stiff and sore. But it was worth it. 

It was almost dark when you finished, part of you wanted to wrap it with laces or some sort of crap, but you passed out as soon as you heard the snap of the scissor cutting the yarn. You didn´t even know you had passed out until you woke up the next day, sunlight hitting your eyes. 

You were alone in bed, but not the way you imagined. You expected cramps and spasms to take over your body, but all you got was a slight soreness. You were in your pajamas and tucked like a baby. 

¨What the-¨ you sat and searched over the blanket looking for the crochet garment, but found no sign of it ¨Did I dream about that?¨

You threw yourself off the bed and marched - more like crawled - to the kitchen, craving for coffee. 

¨Morning, Y/N!¨ everyone was already up, although Luffy was sleep eating again. 

¨Morning, guys.¨ your voice came out sleepy. You grabbed a cup of coffee and sat beside Zoro ¨Good morning, you.¨ You smiled.

¨Morning, sleepyhead.¨ He kissed your temple.  

¨I´m so happy you found it, Y/N. I don´t think we would be able to handle his mood anymore.¨ Nami said relieved, and Zoro yelled something when everyone agreed. You gave her a confused look, and she pointed at your boyfriend.

Your eyes scanned him, oblivious for a moment, but when you noticed him wearing the haramaki you made, a big smile grew on your face. That also explains why you slept comfortably in your pajamas, he must have gone to check on you and saw your pitiful state alongside his present.

¨Yeah, I was lucky, I guess.¨ He held your hand tighter under the table.

After breakfast, the two of you decided to stay on deck, enjoying the gentle sun and the fresh breeze before it was time to set sail again. You were sitting between his legs, against his chest, and his hands rested on your lap while you played with each other´s fingers. 

¨Thank you... for making it for me.¨ You forgot about sore muscles. You forgot about raw fingers. Listen to him sounding so relaxed and peaceful made you forget about everything. 

¨Thanks for not telling the guys I made it. Besides that, how are you going to protect my ass if you can´t focus without this stupid belly wrap?¨ he let out a lazy laugh, and you felt his body vibrating against yours. 

¨Well, thank you again. I really liked it, and I won´t ruin it.¨

¨I know.¨ you whispered, closing your eyes and seizing the moment. 

You knew he would eventually destroy it, but that was fine. You didn´t have the emotional connection to it like he had. What mattered to you was his well-being. You were not strong enough to protect him - not that he needed - so keeping him warm and loved was your internal mission. Because that´s how he made you feel. 

[softdadcarlos]

Aftermath

Masterlist

Fandom: Resident Evil/Biohazard

Pairing: Jill/Carlos

AU: Post-RE3 Carlos and Jill

Summary: Leaving Raccoon City behind, Jill and Carlos deal with the present and think about the future.

Requested by @stardustfalling​ I hope you enjoy as this is the first half of your request!

Jill didn’t know how long they were flying for, completely out of it as she stared out into the horizon blankly. The city she knew was gone, reduced to smouldering rubble, her home and life as she knew nought but ashes. She had no idea what she meant to do now, the only thing she was certain of was that Umbrella needed to pay for the lives they’ve ruined and snuffed out before their time. She wondered if those she had encountered that weren’t on the train had survived, like Kendo and his family.

Jill was bought out of her thoughts by hands covering on her own that were resting on her knees. She looked over, meeting Carlos’ eyes as he gave her a soft smile.

“Looks like this is our stop supercop, chopper’s out of gas.”

Jill nodded, too exhausted for words both emotionally and physically. Carlos hopped out of the aircraft first, holding out a hand to her to help her down, which in all honesty she was grateful for. She had taken a beating the past few days and it was finally catching up to her as the adrenaline filtered out of her system. It seemed they had landed in an empty field not far from a large town.

Carlos walked out into her field of vision, silhouetted by the midday sun as he put a hand on his hip and gestured to the town with his thumb, “It’s roughly midday so shops should be open, I’ll be able to get us some new clothes to change into and some medical supplies. You probably don’t have your wallet on you but I’m more than happy to foot the bill this time.”

Jill raised a brow, “This time?”

“We need to lay low for a while, let Umbrella forget about us. So once we’re all cleaned up we’re hitting the bank so you can get out as much money as you can.”

Oh. He was making plans… that included her.

“Yeah, that makes sense,” Jill agreed.

“I would ask you to stay here for me but… I don’t think either of us will feel easy about being separated right now.”

Carlos wandered back over to the helicopter, shrugging off his assault rifle and undoing his vest. Leaving him in just his tshirt and cargo pants with a pistol strapped to his thigh. He looked distastefully at his sleeves, emblazoned with the Umbrella logo, making him reach up and rip them off.

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After an hour of waiting around for Carlos outside of shops as not to draw too much attention to themselves, they finally had what they needed. They just needed to find a place to stay. A shopkeeper had kindly told Carlos about a cheap hotel, not from the shopping district. So the duo headed that way, thanking every god that they could think of that the receptionist did bat an eye at Jill’s blood-covered appearance. They opted to share a room but with separate beds, feeling awkward about the idea of sharing a bed.

“I’ll shower first. I feel gross and I doubt I’m pleasant to be around.” Jill announced.

Carlos chuckled, “You don’t exactly smell like roses.” He dumped their shopping out onto a bed, sorting through it before tossing some clothes towards her, which she effortlessly caught. “I’ll fix you up when we’re both clean. Don’t want to touch open wounds with grubby hands.”

Jill grunted in response, heading straight to the bathroom, favouring getting clean over conversation. She situated the clean clothes on the towel rack before moving to the shower to turn it on, fiddling with the faucets to reach her desired temperature. God she couldn’t wait to get under the hot steaming water. The dried sewage and Nemesis blood making her skin crawl and itch as it cracked and flaked off of her as she moved.

She stripped off her filthy clothes, once again muttering about burning them in a dumpster because no amount of rinse cycles would remove the stains or stench. She stepped under the hot stream with a sigh, just standing under it basking in the heat as it relaxed her tense and aching muscles. Open wounds stang as the dirt that had caked them shut got washed away. More so when she reached for the hotel supplied body wash, scrubbing herself down rigorously like it could wash away the memories that were more than likely going to haunt her dreams.

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A full hour later, Jill finally left the bathroom cleaner than she had probably ever been in her life. The clothes Carlos had bought for her were loose-fitting sweats which she was very thankful for. The last thing she wanted to wear would be some sort of body-conforming ensemble that would rub up against and constrict her injuries. Especially after her brief self-assessment in the shower. It was more than likely she had a couple of broken ribs. Her ankles sprained.

Carlos took a significantly shorter amount of time in the bathroom than she did but then again, he didn’t have to trek through the sewers. He came out dressed in a matching set of sweats, probably having his own injuries he didn’t want to aggravate. His hair was slicked back out of his face, no doubt in Jill’s mind that if not its shaggy length while wet would have obscured his vision. It also revealed just how nasty of a black eye he had from his punch up with Nikolai which she hadn’t really noticed before. He went over to the bed that was silently agreed to be his, grabbing the medical supplies he purchased from a pharmacy.

He crouched down in front of her and started assessing her ankle, “We should get you patched up first. I don’t know how you managed to run around the city and fight that thing multiple times in this state.” He pushed up the pant leg to see how bad the bruising was and what he saw had him take in a sharp breath, “Jesus Christ, Jill, there’s nothing here that isn’t purple. Good thing I grabbed this arnica cream, should help the bruising go down… Although I think there won’t be enough for me.”

He was gentle in rubbing the cream onto the worst areas, even when he wrapped it in gauze to help support her ankle. From there he went into a pattern, reveal a new bruised canvas and lather it in cream, find a cut: disinfect and cover it. Some wounds required paper stitches to help encourage them to close. The wound from where she was infected would need actual stitches but the pharmacy didn’t have the items necessary for that. Jill tried to stop herself from blushing as she pulled up her sweater to just under her breasts, but her ribs couldn’t be ignored and self-consciousness would get her nowhere.

Carlos applied a gentle pressure as he surveyed the damage making Jill hiss. “Shit, yeah they’re definitely broken. But unfortunately, there’s nothing we can do. They can’t be splinted and binding them would make them worse. All I can offer you for this is an ice pack.”

Jill sighed, dropping the material, “Just my luck. But that can wait for now.”

Carlos nodded, understanding her unsaid order, stripping off his sweater so she could get a good look at his injuries. Multiple fist-sized bruises littered his upper body, a few scrapes and cuts on his arms. All in all not too bad… except for the gunshot wound in his shoulder. Jill felt guilt settle in her stomach. She did that to him. And the faded scars from stab wounds and other gunshots told her she wasn’t the first to injure him in such a manner. Probably a hazard of the job much like how it was for S.T.A.R.S. She flinched as he grunted when she disinfected the wound, muttering apologises as she did so. She was drawn out of it by Carlos placing a hand on her shoulder, looking her in the eyes, sincerity warming his chocolate coloured ones.

“Don’t blame yourself. I told you to take the shot.”

“It could have been so much worse if I had missed.”

“But you didn’t and I trusted you not to.”

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Carlos was already awake when he heard Jill tossing and turning in her sleep. They were both exhausted and had decided to call it a day early. It would be a lie to say Carlos wasn’t concerned for her. In fact, it would also be an understatement to say he was only concerned. After spending half a day searching for her and finding her on the ground, his first thought was that she had died and he had lost her. Of course, he was proven wrong when he approached her, relieved to find she was comatosed. Which didn’t last long with the realisation that she was infected. Carlos had never been through such a flurry of emotion in such a short space of time. But it did bring to light that he didn’t want to be away from her side. So sleep did not come easy to him, visions of her laying there bloodied on the ground swimming in his head.

He couldn’t begin to imagine what she must be seeing in those nightmares of hers, because there was no doubt that after that hell that dreams would be a thing of the past for a while. With a groan, Carlos pushed himself up and off his bed, approaching the distraught woman as she sat bolt upright panting.

“Easy there, supercop, I’m here.” He reassured, seating himself next to her and took one of her hands in his, thumb rubbing the back of it soothingly.

“I’m sorry-”

“It’s fine, I couldn’t sleep anyway.” Carlos chuckled dryly, “Was too concerned that if I closed my eyes and opened them again you’d be gone.”

Jill was quiet for a moment, considering his words before she spoke up, “Want to push the beds together?”

Carlos blinked at her, “Uuuh… Jill as much as I think that you’re one hell of a woman, I doubt you or I are in a fit state to-”

Jill covered his mouth with her palm, awkward laughter bubbling out of her, “That’s not what I meant. It’s just sometimes sleeping next to someone helps, you know?”

Carlos nodded, “Yeah I get you… Would you like to get dinner together tomorrow?” Jill looked visibly confused as Carlos became flustered at her unwavering stare. “I wasn’t kidding when I said you’re one hell of a woman. And I uh… there’s no pressure but uh… since I’m the only one out of the two of us that has a place to actually live once we leave this place… I was thinking it might be best if you crash at my place until you sort something out…” He trailed off, avoiding her eyes the more unsure in himself he became.

Jill got off the bed and Carlos felt his stomach drop. Shit.

“Come on let’s push these beds together, we can talk more about it once we’ve rested up.”

Begrudgingly Carlos got up and helped close the gaps between the two beds. Once done they settled into the centre of the unified bed. Carlos was pleasantly surprised to find Jill shuffling back into him while led on the side without broken ribs and grabbed one of his arms to drape over her stomach, interlocking her fingers with his. This effectively led to them spooning.

“I think I’ll feel safer like this.” She whispered, glad he couldn’t see the red colouring her cheeks.

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A/N:  A lot of the injuries Jill is described as having here I have kinda experienced first hand including the broken ribs and entirely fucked ankles. And let me tell you, injuries like that UNTREATED really fuck with your sex life. My ribs are still hurty nearly 20 years later. If only I had someone as gentle as Carlos ㅠㅠ Also I suffer from chronic pain and had a particularly bad time with it today and had a random ass anxiety attack on top of that.

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[mightylauren]

Let Your Heart Hold Fast Snippet

(Since there’s no chapter this week and I really like how this little scene turned out I’m posting this bit of what will be either chapter 6 or 7. To set the scene it is Kallus’ first field mission since his escape. He’s going out with the Ghost to assist since Kanan, Ezra, Sabine, and Chopper are all on Mandalore.)

|-o-|

        “Sabacc!” Kallus declared, triumphantly, tossing down his cards.

        Zeb stared, flabbergasted, both at the cards on the table and the loose, relaxed state of the man before him.

        “What happened to ‘I’ve hardly played this game’?” Zeb asked, tossing his losing cards down.

        “Hardly, not never,” Kallus said. “Plus, I’m very sorry to tell you that you have an easy tell to read.”

        “Do not!”

        “Maybe not everyone can read it, but I am too well acquainted with you now,” Kallus said, leaning forward and flicking one of the Lasat’s pointy ears. “Your ears. Can’t read everything from them yet, but I can decipher enough to know when you’re bluffing.”

        “Karabast…” Though, internally, the fact that Kallus was learning to read his ears was flattering. He’d worked with people for years who didn’t pay his ears any mind at all. Clearly Kallus paid very close attention, which was welcome news as Zeb definitely paid close attention to Kallus.

        “We should get some sleep.”

        Zeb wanted to stay up, continue enjoying their time together, but he knew that the human was right. They had five hours left enough for a solid block of rest and they would need it.

        Not that Kallus was waiting for input as he divested himself of his jacket and bent over to dig in his bag for something.

        If Zeb wasn’t admiring the Kallus’ backside as he did so, he definitely was once the man tugged down his trousers revealing boxer briefs beneath. It suddenly felt much warmer in the cabin as he watched Kallus slide on what seemed to be softer cloth pants for sleeping in.

        Before he got himself caught gawking, Zeb unstuck himself, turning to clean up the cards and ration trash from the table.

        “I’m assuming the top bunk is me,” Kallus said.

        Unless you want to share with me. “Yep.”

        Kallus swung up easily into the bunk, Zeb unable to keep himself from admiring the way the muscles in the human’s back flexed beneath his shirt as he did so.

        “Going to assume the pillow and blanket aren’t actually Bridger’s.”

        Zeb chuckled. “Nah, I put those there for you,” Zeb said.

        “I appreciate it.”

        “No problem.”

        As he climbed into his own bunk, he glanced up to see Kallus was lying on his back, tucking the pillow beneath his head. Zeb rolled over onto his side, facing the back wall. He wasn’t sure how quickly Kallus was capable of falling asleep so Zeb stayed quiet.

        After what felt like a long while, Kallus spoke.

        “You ever think about that first time we faced each other head on?”

        Zeb blinked, as this question certainly felt like it came out of nowhere. “Over the ion disrupters? What about it?”

        “Sometimes I look back at that moment, and ponder what might’ve happened if Bridger hadn’t been there,” Kallus said, there was a haunted quality to his words. “If I’d struck you down, I’d never have left the Empire. We’d never have ended up on that moon. I’d never have—.”

        Zeb rolled over, eyes on the bottom of the bunk above him.

        “That’s not what happened, Kal,” Zeb said in what he hoped was a reassuring voice. “What even makes you think of it?”

        There was a beat of silence. “It’s… it’s one of my recurring dreams, or should I say nightmares,” Kallus answered. “Only, Bridger is never present to save you and I —to think a split second could have changed my whole destiny.”

        “Could have, yes, but didn’t. You didn’t do it, and you’re here now. We both are because this is what was meant to be,” Zeb said. “So no, I don’t think about that fight or any of our fights before Bahryn because that guy wasn’t you.”

        “I am always relieved to hear that you no longer regard me as the agent any longer.”

        “Agent Kallus is gone. Captain Kallus is far superior in many ways,” Zeb said.

         “Thank you, Garazeb,” Kallus said, voice now sounding sleepy. “I’m so glad Bridger was there. I had no way of knowing then you were to become the most important person in my life.”

        Zeb was struck speechless by the admission. He wanted badly to see the man’s face.

        “Do you really mean that?” Zeb asked. “Because you’re very important to me too. More than you know.”

        Silence greeted him and for a second Zeb thought the human regretted having said it.

        “Kal?”

        Then Zeb heard the soft snore drifting down from above. He was equal parts disappointed and relieved. As quietly as he could, Zeb slipped from his bunk, rising up on his legs to peer at the sleeping human.

        Kallus had rolled over onto his belly, head on the pillow, golden hair fallen into his face. He was truly handsome even in sleep and Zeb vowed himself that he wouldn’t wait too much longer to tell the human just that.

[katehuntington]

How You & I Will Be - part four

Fandom: Supernatural Timeframe: mid-season 2 Main characters: Reader, Dean Winchester, Sam Winchester Pairing: Dean x Reader, Sam & Reader (friends) Series summary: When a hellhound case in the mountains goes sideways, Dean and Y/N find themselves trapped in a small cabin, miles from civilization. A serious injury forces the two hunters to come to terms with their true feelings for each other. Rescue is on its way, but will it be in time? Warnings part four: angst, pining, fluff, swearing, alcohol, description of blood and injury, possible character death, saying goodbye, all the tears.  Word Count:  3926 words Author’s note: Part 4 of a 5 part mini-series.  @idreamofhazel and @littlegreenplasticsoldier, thank you so much for being awesome betas! Hold on to something, because it’s gonna get dark and sad. Tissues are mandatory.

Find the ‘How You & I Will Be’ masterlist here!

     Unlike the raging blizzard that is whirling around the cabin outside, inside it’s completely quiet. The flames in the fireplace have died down to a few glowing chunks of charcoal, barely breathing. Dean settled against the wall hours ago and hasn’t moved since; Y/N fell asleep against his chest this afternoon and has been out of it for most of the time. And so he watches the lighting of the scenery change outside as sun goes down and the night comes in, washing dark clouds through the valley.       It has been three days since the hellhounds attacked her. Not allowing himself to sleep has him exhausted, but Dean refuses to let his guard down. He has to stay on watch, he has to keep going. Maybe if he keeps fighting, she’ll be able to hold on, too.

     His arm is wrapped around her, his cheek on her hair. The leftover moonshine keeps him company, comforting him whenever he lets the liquor burn his throat. He was able to contact Sam through the satellite phone again. His smart little brother found a ritual to send the hounds back to the doghouse, but getting his hands on the exotic ingredients has been a challenge. Several hunters are pitching in; Bobby, Ellen and Jo are all working around the clock. But when he glances down at the woman they are all desperately trying to save, he hopes it will be enough. He lets out a worried and shuddering sigh after registering the paleness of her skin and the shallowness of her breath.

     In his entire life he prayed once or twice, maybe. When he was little he would ask God to bring his mom back, but he grew up quick enough to understand that he could pray all he wanted, his mother was never coming home. Today he prayed, though. He begged the man upstairs not to take her, to give her a chance.

     But her condition is getting worse. The infection has caused blood poisoning, by the looks of it. Her fever spiked even higher few hours ago, causing restless dreams and hallucinations. Sometimes she is so far off that she mistakes him for her father. She cries for him, for her mom, too. She told him she was sorry about a hundred times, Dean can’t figure out what she meant. But damn, Y/N is putting up one hell of a fight. 

     ‘I’m not gonna die, I’m not gonna die, I’m not gonna die!’ 

     She keeps repeating it as if she’s trying to scare the reaper away. Honestly, it wouldn’t surprise him if one is already lurking in the corner of the room, like a vulture waiting for the wounded animal to die. The bastard can wait all he wants, Dean can still feel her chest rise and fall, he can feel her shiver. He can feel the intense heat coming from her clammy skin. She’s alive, and again Dean closes his eyes and rests the back of his head against the wood, letting another weary breath slip from his lips.

     God, please…. Please, let her win this fight. I’m begging you here, okay? I’m on my knees, I’ll do everything you ask. Please, just this one time…

     As if it’s a sign from above, the satellite phone rings. Startled, Dean opens his eyes and stares at the piece of equipment laying a few feet away from him. Y/N stirs for a moment, awakened by the beeping sound, but he is able to slip his arm from behind her back and gets up without disturbing her any further. In three big strides he’s next to the phone, picks it up and presses the green button.      “Sam?”      “Dean, hey.”      Relieved, the oldest Winchester places one hand on his hip and stares through the window into the dark night. It’s always good to hear his brother’s voice, especially in desperate times like these.  “Tell me you’ve got something.”      His words come out with a tremble in his voice he didn’t mean to be audible. But his brother heard it nonetheless. “I do. We got all the ingredients and Bobby is lifting the curse as we speak.”

     During the following silence, Dean can hear the soft chanting of his surrogate father in the background. A sigh of relief escapes his lips and he silently thanks the man upstairs. But then Sam’s tone dawns on him. The words weren’t cheery or excited, not relieved like you would expect from the bringer of good news. Before Dean can ask about the downside, his brother continues.      “How is she doing?” he wonders. “Did she get worse?”      Dean turns around to observe Y/N’s unconscious figure leaning against the wall. He swallows thickly when he notices her grey skin tone, the dark shadows under her eyes, her lips pale and dry. He has seen it before, on the faces of hunters and victims whenever the monsters got to them before the Winchesters could. It’s as if the skull illuminates through the skin, eyes sunken in their sockets slightly more. The face of death. Dean turns away, having trouble to accept what is right under his nose.      “She’s on the verge, Sammy,” he speaks softly, trying to stay strong.

     “There’s a rescue team on standby in the valley, but they won’t be able to make a move until dawn, and that is if the storm passes,” the youngest Winchester breaks to him, as gently as possible. “It might take until tomorrow evening before we can reach you.”      Dean gulps, witnessing the bad weather outside. The realisation that Mother Nature might be a major deal-breaker sinks in and Sam can hear a trace of panic when his brother objects.      “No.” Dean shakes his head stubbornly. “No, no, no. She needs help right now. What about a chopper?”      “They don’t fly during blizzards like these.”      “A snowmobile then,” he thinks out loud, pacing back and forth. “How long will it take if you hike up this fucking piece of rock?!”      “Even if we manage to reach you guys on foot, she will never survive the way back in her condition. It’s fifteen degrees outside, winds blowing over 70 miles per hour…”      “Well dammit, Sam! There must be something!”

     Dean turns around, pinching the bridge of his nose with his eyes squeezed shut. He glances over at her for a second, making sure she is still asleep, but Y/N has barely moved since he picked up the phone. He knows his little brother heard the desperation in his voice. He knows how this looks, but he can’t accept it. He can’t allow it.      “Bobby contacted a witch he owes, maybe she’ll be able to tame the weather. But it’s gonna take a couple of hours at least.…”      “She doesn’t have that much time, Sam. I-I don’t think she’s.…”      The line cracks a little when silence is the only thing that remains between the brothers. Dean presses his trembling lips together as he fight the tears, but he’s unable to continue. He doesn’t need to finish his sentence for Sam to get where he’s going. It takes a while before either of them speaks.

     “Dean, listen to me...” Sam says eventually, his voice broken too, “you’ve got to tell her.”      The older brother stares outside the window, watching the wind taunt the snow, shooting it across the night sky like razors. The fact that Sam doesn’t tell him that it’s going to be just fine, but instead chooses to offer advice on how to handle the final hours, states the obvious.      “No. Maybe if I don’t, she’ll be able to keep throwing punches,” he refuses, the words coming out shaky.       “That’s not what I’m talking about,” Sam rephrases. “You need to tell her what we talked about in the car. You have to tell her that you’re in love with her.”

     Again, silence as Dean bites his lip, moving the speaker away from his mouth slightly to make sure Sam doesn’t pick up on his quivering breath.      “If you don’t, you’ll regret it for the rest of your life,” he pressures. “She deserves to know the truth.”      “She’s dying, Sam. I don’t think she wants to listen to some dude pouring his heart out. This isn’t about me,” Dean responds somewhat agitated.      “You are not just ‘some dude’ to her, Dean! You have no idea, do you?”      He can hear his younger brother sigh on the other side before he continues.  “You’re not the only one I had long night conversations with. It’s a two way street, man.”

     Struck by realization, Dean stares into the storm, eyes wide, mouth slightly opened. Is Sam telling him that this profound feeling is mutual? Sure, a part of him hoped it was. But living a hunter’s life didn’t allow him to feel that way. Sometimes he picked up on something, but he always thought of it as harmless flirting. Besides, she knows him. She knows him better than any girl he has ever come across. She knows about his inability to cope with sorrow and loss. She saw him wreck the trunk of his own car with a crowbar after his father’s death. She knows about the drinking, the urge to hit the liquor cabinet every time life gets rough. She knows about the many, many women, a girl in every town they passed through. He put her through silent-treatment, he raged at her when she confronted him with his habit to stuff up all his pain, grief and anger. How could she possibly love him back?        “She’s in love with me?” he whispers in disbelief.      “Yeah, head over heels,” Sam acknowledges. “She couldn’t stop talking about it.”       Stunned, Dean runs his hand down his face, a mix of emotions knocking him over. If only he had known, maybe they could have made it work. Maybe, just maybe, they could have had something beautiful.       “It would mean the world to her, Dean. Tell her.”      He nods, even though Sam can’t see it.      “Alright, I will.”      A trace of a small smile forms on the corners of his mouth. He never knew he could feel so conflicted. Intense joy opposite an even greater grief. He only just became aware of her feelings for him and he’ll barely have time to act upon it.             “I’m so sorry, Dean,” Sam continues, sadder than a moment ago. “I really hoped you wouldn’t have to live through this.”       Jessica Moore, the love of Sam’s life. She pops into Dean’s mind instantly. He met her once, when he broke into their home in the middle of the night to he pick up his little brother up and search for their father. The way Sam looked at her was almost foreign to him, Dean didn’t understand any of it. He sure does now. He also understands Sam’s desperate attempt to save her when Jess was burning on the ceiling. If anyone can relate to how defeated, hopeless and scared Dean feels right now, it’s his brother.      “I know,” he sighs, appreciating his sympathy.

     He turns away from the icy window to face her again. She stirs, restless by a fever-dream, but then she wakes up. Confused eyes scan the room for her companion. When they focus on him standing by the window, she settles. Not for long, though, because his facial aspects are almost out of character. Tears are shimmering on his bottom eyelashes, eyes filled with desperation. The always optimistic Dean Winchester, who counters every problem with either a joke or another way out, is looking at her as if the world is about to come crashing down. He still has the satellite phone pressed against his ear and she realizes it’s probably Sam on the other side. It’s then when it clicks in her mind and she understands what’s going on.      “Bad news, huh?” she presumes, voice raspy.

Dean opens his mouth to answer, but nothing comes out. The single tear that was still clinging to his eyelid comes down his cheek. It’s impossible for him to lie to her as he intended. She would see right through the deceit anyway, having the ability to read him like a book. Dean bites his tongue to keep back the false promises, his jaw flexing in the process. Not trusting his voice, he nods as he swallows apprehensively. Without words he is able to explain exactly what is happening. He would have given anything to tell her otherwise.

     Y/N breaks her gaze away from him, her mouth slightly opened as it starts to sink in what this means: no one is coming to save her. Her breath hitches in her throat when she tries to breathe in deeply and she identifies it as panic immediately. ‘Calm down, slow breaths, you got this’, she tells herself.       In all fairness, she saw it coming. Even when Dean remained hopeful, she felt the life slipping through her fingers. Her body has been whispering it in her ear, so has her common sense.      “Is that Sam?” she ask softly.      Again Dean nods and she reaches out for the phone. He hands it to his partner, after which he turns away and runs his hand down his face, wiping away the tears.

     “Sammy, you there?”      Immediately, her voice calling out for his brother, calling him Sammy, causes Dean to tear up again. No one calls Sam that, the youngest Winchester would stubbornly correct those who dare to use that nickname. Except for Dean, except for her. That’s how much she’s like family to the brothers.      “Hey Y/N, it’s good to hear your voice,” Sam replies, having trouble keeping a steady tone. “Hanging in there?”       “You know me; not going down without a fight,” she forces a smile, wearing her mask well.       Dean has walked away slowly, his arms crossed in front of his chest. When he reaches the fireplace he leans against the warm stone shaft that runs up to the roof. He waits, listening, while trying to figure out how to deal the inevitable.        “...So there’s no way you can reach us in time?” she asks, after listening to Sam’s explanation.      “Y/N, I-I’m so sorry.…” Sam’s voice breaks.      She nods, her eyes watering. “It’s okay, Sam. You did everything you could.”      The one who is about to die, comforting the one who will live. It’s heartbreaking at least and Sam is touched by her attempt.      “Who’s gonna watch Breaking Bad with me, huh?” Sam smiles, taking a little trip down Memory Lane in order to lighten the mood.       “The big question is who’s gonna be my partner in crime in Vegas upstairs. I can’t count cards without my personal Einstein,” she chuckles through the sadness.       It remains quiet for a few long seconds as both search for things to say. It’s the youngest Winchester who speaks first. His message is as sincere as they come.      “I’m gonna miss you so, so much.”

     Sam doesn’t mean to, but his words hit so hard, that she crumbles. The curtain falls and so do the tears. Her eyes seek Dean, who is watching her having one last conversation with her best friend. He knows that the dam is about to break, so he approaches her slowly and crouches down to level with the girl he cares for so much. Even though he is having a hard time himself, he puts a hand on her shoulder and squeezes it lightly, letting her know he’s right there.      “I’ll miss you too,” she responds, her voice quavering. “Do me a favor, will ya? Take care of your brother for me?”      Dean looks up and away, anything but in her eyes, because he knows it will destroy him. The knot in his stomach tightens and fresh tears roll down his face anyway. Breathing gets a little tougher, a constraint in his chest builds up. God, this hurts.      “I will. You have my word,” Sam promises, unable to tie his emotions down.      “Bye, Sammy.”      “See you again, Y/N.”

     Despite the tears glistening in her eyes, she smiles. Y/N cherishes the moment, then lets the air flow from your mouth and presses the red button. Dean takes the phone from her hand and lays it on the floor next to him, then faces the woman who has his heart. Numb and drained she stares at the fireplace that is barely spreading light anymore. The final words she just exchanged with Sam forces her to face the facts. God, she’s scared. She doesn’t want to die, not after everything that she missed out on saying.      “I fucked up, Dean,” she whimpers.       “Hey, now why would you say that?” he wonders, trying to read her.       “I should’ve done things differently. I- I should’ve lived more, should’ve had more fun, worked less, maybe for once listened to that ticker in my chest,” she pauses, catching her breath when panic causes her to ramble. “It’s just that - that now my time is up, it becomes so clear how bad I fucked up. I just, I wish I….”

     The words flow out together with soft sobs until she can’t continue anymore, so he hushes her softly. Where in the past Dean would have hit the breaks the moment he felt the urge to show affection past the borders of a platonic relationship, he does the exact opposite this time. Dean takes her hand in his, letting their fingers entwine with each other. Somewhat surprised Y/N casts her gaze down at their hands, then up into Dean’s eyes. His touch sends a warm sensation up her arm and spreads through her entire body. God, does it feel wonderful. A warmth she didn’t think she’d feel again since the approach of the end has left her feeling stone cold. It’s only now that she notices how he leans into her, until his forehead rests against hers. A quivering sigh leaves her lips as she squeezes her eyes shut, moved by his tenderness.

     After some time, she whispers, “You know what?”        She creates a little distance, cupping his face and rubbing her thumb through his scruff. His pupils bounce between hers, taking in every feature. For a second her eyes light up, ignited by the connection between the two of them.      “Of all the people, dead or alive, that I could spend my final moments with, I’m glad it’s you,” she says, contented. “I want you to know that I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

     A smile spreads across Dean’s face, creating lines that tell exactly how much those words mean to him. She mirrors his expression as he reaches up to sweep her hair from her face, then traces her jawline with his fingertips. The look that he gives her is unlike any gaze he’s given her before, because this time, he doesn’t hold back. 

     Dean leans in, inching closer and about to do the one thing he has been longing for.      “I should have done this a long time ago.”      He kisses her, in the most loving, gentle and yet passionate way possibly imaginable. Only now he realizes how desperate he was for this moment, how long he waited. How long he kept torturing himself by convincing his heart with his mind that he could never have her, that she would never love him.

     Y/N lets it wash over her and returns this symbol of his love by pulling him deeper into the kiss with the little strength that she has left. Dean takes his sweet time to let her feel how much she means to him, his lips lingering on hers. Then he slowly breaks the connection, cherishing the moment as he rests his forehead against hers. His  eyes remain closed, but eventually he allows himself to gaze at the universe in her eyes. Overcome she stares back, witnessing a shade of green somewhere between hidden rainforest and soothing emerald. Suddenly, she feels it. An urge, the words on the tip of her tongue waiting for her mouth to open. Of course she’s scared of rejection, of the aftermath, but she doesn’t let it win. No, for once she says exactly what her heart tells her to say. Then the one man who she never expected to say it out loud, beats her to it.

     “I love you, y’know that?”      Stunned she stares at him, tears welling up again.      She didn’t know.      She hoped, she dreamed, but she didn’t know. God, she wishes she knew! She would have spent her time differently, she would have stayed by his side every minute, every second. She would have been more careful.  She would have told him how much she loves him so many times that maybe one day he might even start loving himself instead of remaining hateful for the wrongs and mistakes he made. Now might be a good time to let him know. Better late than never.       “I love you, too,” she tells him.

     The realization of being loved is a beautiful thing to witness. The moment of disbelief, then astonishment, followed by a gratitude that grows to a volume that causes his eyes to pour over. It’s astounding that despite the grim future, he is able to shed a few tears of happiness. She loves him, how amazing is that?      “We’ve got piss poor timing, though,” he remarks, making her chuckle.

     The comment was meant to be funny, to bring back that bright smile and those bright eyes once more. It works, but then it also states the awful truth. This story barely began and it’s already coming to an end. And so her smile fades as she comes back down from her cloud. The rush of her amazing moment with Dean was coursing through her body like ecstasy, but its effect fade fast. It’s beginning to sink in how exhausted she truly is, how much of an effort it is just to sit upright. Breathing is becoming a mission and the pain from her leg has spread through her entire body.      “I could use that drink right now,” she says, hinting at the bottle of moonshine.

     ‘Let's disinfect that wound first and get desperate later, okay?’ That was Dean’s response when she asked for the drink last night. That they’re desperate would be an understatement, so with a little reluctance he hands her the liquor.      Letting her drink the alcohol feels like giving up in a way, but he helps her take a sip nonetheless when she is unable to heave the bottle to her mouth on her own. Just a sip is all it takes to trigger a cough.      “It’s not Jack…” she admits. “But it’ll do.”      Dean sets the bottle down and scoots up against the wall next to her, slipping his arm behind her back. Tired, she rests her head against his chest after he pulls her close. His steady heartbeat drums against her ear as he caresses her shoulder. It feels so good to finally let her guard down around Dean, to be close to him without having to be afraid to show too much affection.

     “I don’t want this to end,” she whispers.      Dean nuzzles his nose in her hair, trying to comfort her with his touch. She can’t see, though, that he has closed his eyes, trying to prevent himself from falling apart.       “Me neither,” he responds, his voice soft. “We still have some time, right?”       She nods, weakened, although she can’t say for sure if ‘some time’ can be expressed in hours or minutes.

Oh, boy... I know, it hurts. If you wanna rant, cry or scream at me, go right ahead and hit up my inbox. Stay tuned for the finale soon!

Read the final part here!

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[op-jessie]

Okay so I day dream, A LOT. A pretty good chunk of it about my crush and tend to zone out. So could I get a scenario where Sanji, Usopp, and Zoro notice their crush zoning out a lot and confront them, then their crush ends up confessing to them? Thanks, I absolutely love your work~

Black Leg Sanji: He was in love. Sanji was known for easily falling for people but with you it was completely different. His feelings of enamor for you never seemed to disappear or dissolve; in fact, they actually inflated to enormous lengths since he had met you. He thought it was the same admiration that he had for Nami-swan and Robin-chwan but you were much different. When it came to you, he didn’t have to take you a drink because you were right there in the kitchen with him. He found himself having a warmth in his chest whenever you joined him in the kitchen. When you looked over his shoulder and asked him questions on cooking, he felt like he could melt right into his shoes.

His favorite thing about you though is your cute expression when you daydreamed. When you would join him in the kitchen and he was just waiting for something to boil or something mundane, he would glance at you and found you daydreaming. You would lean on your palm and stare at the wall across from yourself and eventually your lips would tilt up at a particular thought and he would find himself admiring your serene expression. Yeah, he had it bad.

He had his back to the door while he was cooking dinner. He heard the door swing open and he knew who it was even without turning around.

“Sanji~ What are you making?” He heard your sweet voice ask, getting louder as you walked closer. You smiled and he stopped stirring to look at you, hands clutching together and his pupils turned into little hearts.

“I’m making dinner, (Y/N)-swan~! It’s a new recipe that I’m trying but it’s just a lot of stirring so far.” You hummed as you looked over the pot, making his heart flutter at how close you suddenly got.

“I see. Well, mind if I keep you company?” He smiled, trying to calm his racing heart.

“I could never mind, (Y/N)-swan~” He swore he spotted a blush on your cheeks but pushed the hope away as quickly as it came. You sat down at your usual spot and, again, he found himself glancing over at you. You were as beautiful as ever and he found himself sighing every time he glanced at you.

He was amazed at how quickly and deeply you would daydream. Luffy, Usopp, and Chopper had run in 3 times and he kicked them out 3 times, yet you were still in your same daydream state. He put the stew to simmer and decided to sit down across from you and see how long it would take for you to notice him. He leaned forward on the table and mimicked your position, smiling as he took in your features. Was this weird? Maybe but it’s just to figure out how long you would take to notice him!... Yeah, that’s what it was. He noticed that you were smiling again and wondered what you could be thinking about that brought out that smile. After a couple of minutes, he stood up and leaned over so that his arms rested against the wooden table and he was much more closer to you this time. He smiled at the glazed look over your eyes and gently tapped the table.

“(Y/N)-swan~” At the call of your name, he could see that, after you blinked, your eyes seemed to refocus on him and your cheeks were suddenly shaded a red hue. You looked even cuter! He wouldn’t say it out loud since you would most likely be embarrassed so he decided to just grin back at you. The smile that had momentarily disappeared came back and your cheeks seemed to redden even more. Cute~ Before he could even question, what you were thinking or smiling about, you had dropped your hand from your palm to the table and pushed yourself up so you were leaning forward as well.

When did his vision get blurry? Were his pupils shaking? Was it just him or did you get closer? He couldn’t even let out a squeak as you leaned forward the rest of the way and brushed your lips against his so lightly that he was sure that he could have imagined it. When you pulled back, he was suddenly off the bench and on the ground, laying on his side.

“Sanji!” He faintly heard your voice but all he could actually process was what you had done. Was his nose bleeding? That would be embarrassing! Not in front of you! Oh and there you were know, kneeling next to him and shaking his shoulder. He felt the lightheadedness return but also a sense of bliss filled him at the same time. What an exhilarating feeling! Maybe he could tell you his feelings when he gets over the kiss (more like cool down from it) and is more composed.

Roronoa Zoro: You didn’t really notice when you’d daydream, it just happened sometimes. The crew members would tell you that you do it a lot and they often have to snap you out of it. You were sitting on deck with your legs crossed and your elbow resting on your knee, your face resting against your palm. If anyone were to pass by at the moment, they would notice how your eyes were glazed over.

You were used to daydreaming and you were even teased by your crew because you tended to answer honestly when you would space out. You could sit there for hours in your thoughts and the path your thoughts went were never organized but, lately, it seemed like your thoughts always ended up back to a certain swordsman on your crew. Yeah, he was blunt and cold sometimes but you had always admired him. That admiration turned into romantic feelings and you found yourself pining over the green haired man. You hadn’t been on the crew as long as some of the members but you had noticed the small actions that he tended to do to show that he cared when no one noticed; like how little sleep he gets because of his heightened senses in case of danger or the way he glanced over at everyone during battle and stepped in during dire moments.

You were so lost in thought that you didn’t even realize when someone had joined you out on the deck and stood right next to your sitting form.

“What are you doing?” You faintly heard, still too lost in your pining for the swordsman to actually focus in.

“Thinking.”

“About?”

“Zoro.” You hadn’t even realized the mumble that slipped out of your mouth. The view in front of you was suddenly obscured and it made you blink. When you focused in on the figure that was crouching in front of you, a blush made its way up your neck to the tips of your ears. Your eyes met with the gaze of the man that had been the center of your thoughts for ages and you could feel your body stiffen. Now that you thought about it… What had you just said in your state that made him look at you like that? Unbeknownst to you, if you squinted, you could see a light blush on his cheeks.

“You do that a lot?” You cleared your throat in a sad attempt to push away the blush on your face.

“Do what?” His eye broke contact with you for a second before meeting your gaze again.

“Think,” he started, leaning back on his heels so that he wasn’t so close to you anymore, relieving you but also making you sulk internally, “about me.” Your cheeks flared up darker than you even thought was possible for you and ducked your head away from his intense gaze. At your slight nod, you could see from the corner of your eye that he flinched slightly.

“Y-You could say that… It’s only natural for someone to think about their c-crush...” You tried to say cooly but you cursed at your own nervousness for making you stutter; but you did congratulate yourself for the moment of bravery. Silence filled the space between the two of you before you heard shuffling. He sat down next to you with his legs outstretched enough so your thighs were brushing against each other. Even though you were simmering in your own embarrassment, he just leaned back against the railing with his arms behind his head and his eyes closed. You gathered your courage to look at him and a fluttering sensation filled your chest when he forced a yawn to hide the blush on his cheeks, much more noticeable than the initial blush. The two of you sat in silence once again that you took as awkward.

“Um… I should go-” You cleared your throat and tried to push yourself up to your feet… that is until you felt a slight tug on your shirt.

When you looked at the swordsman, he didn’t say anything to address you but from the blush on his cheeks and how his lips were pressed tightly together, you slowly sat back down next to him, closer than before so your thighs were pressed together this time. Another tug and now your head was leaning against his shoulder, making your cheeks flare up again. When you heard the soft snores, you let out a sigh, relieved more than anything now. He wasn’t always the romantic type so you’d take this silent confession as a win.

Sniper King Usopp: Your captain had asked for you to keep him company while fishing as Usopp went to water his plants. You argued that Luffy didn’t even talk when he was fishing but ultimately gave in when he pouted and said “captain’s orders.” As you suspected, the rubber man focused in on fishing and the two of you sunk into silence, leaving you to daydream like you usually do.

Usopp had just finished watering his plants when he walked out on deck. He spotted you and Luffy fishing and smiled before stepping over to possibly join the two of you; he blushed lightly at the thought of talking with you while ‘fishing.’ When he got closer, however, he could see that the fishing reel on your rod was spinning way too fast and he could see that the line was becoming tighter. His eyes widened and he called your name while running the rest of the way to the railing the two of you were sat at.

You hadn’t noticed that the fishing line had started to tug until it was too late. When the line had stretched tautly, you were pulled off the ship. Your reel fell out of your hands and you closed your eyes as you felt yourself fall towards the ocean, waiting for the impact of the waves below. Suddenly, you weren’t falling anymore and there was a warm hand grasping yours.

“Go, Usopp!” You heard your captain yell, making you open your eyes. The object of your affection had grasped onto your hand while leaning over the railing, successfully stopping you from hitting the water. He reached his other hand down to you so you could get a hold of it, which you did. He pulled you up with a couple of grunts and helped you settle on your feet after going over the banister. You let out a breath that you hadn’t realized you were holding and actually found it quite difficult to catch your breath. At the sound of yells, you turned your head and saw that Chopper was cheering Luffy on as he had your fishing rod in his hands and he fought against the fish that almost pulled you overboard.

“You alright, (Y/N)?” You turned back to your crush’s voice, blushing lightly at the look he was giving you and how he started to circle you; his eyes looked you up and down frantically.

“I’m fine,” you were able to get out through your still clenched throat, “don’t worry. You got here just in time. So… Thank you.” He stopped circling you to stand in front of you and you noticed that there was a light pink dusting against his cheeks, growing darker after you smiled at him.

“What happened? You almost fell off!” You had hoped he wouldn’t ask. It’d be embarrassing to tell your crush that you almost fell into the ocean from daydreaming about him. You already felt the first blooms of embarrassment fill your chest and show on your cheeks.

“Um… I might have been daydreaming…” Usopp raised an eyebrow. Daydreaming? You were so lost in thought that you almost fell off the ship? He knew that you usually daydreamed but to this extent? It must have been important.

“What were you so spaced out about?” He asked, making him tilt his head slightly at how you stiffened. Suddenly, your cheeks flared up with a darker shade of red and he could feel his own ears and cheeks heat up just from how cute you looked.

Your thoughts were running a mile a minute. Maybe this was your chance to reveal to your crush that you actually had a crush on him. Usopp was a nice guy so, even if he didn’t feel the same way, he would turn you down nicely; that’s what you told yourself but that didn’t calm you in the slightest. Fear went through your veins at the thought of being rejected but you also couldn’t hold onto these unrequited feelings any longer. It sucked!

Before you could process any further, your mouth opened up and said, “You.” You didn’t think your cheeks could flair up any more but they did and so did his. Oh no, did you embarrass him?

His heart was about to implode. You were thinking about him? What did that mean? Was it what he was hoping it meant? Did you mean it in a friendly way? What did it mean?! Before he could even get a single question out, a shadow had casted over the two of you, making both of you momentarily forget your flustered state and look up. Your eyes widened as you looked at the giant fish falling above you, ignoring the whooping yells of your captain. You felt hands on your shoulders and you were pulled back once again into a hard chest. The deck under your feet rumbled as the fish landed on the hardwood floor and the sheer size of it made a shiver go down your spine. That’s the thing that almost dragged you into the ocean. You cringed at the mere thought but your attention was brought back to the man behind you clearing his throat. You turned around to look at him and your blush returned at full blast. His own face was a lovely shade of red and he was looking to the side.

“Um… W-Want to go check on the plants with m-me while Sanji figures this fish out?” His question caught you off guard but you nodded, unsure that you wanted to be around the chaos that was your crew preparing for dinner. Also, any moment alone with the man of your affections was always welcomed.

“Yeah! I’d love to!” He gave you a smile, sending your heart into overdrive.

“I’ll show you some of my new plants.” You nodded and smiled back, momentarily forgetting  your outburst earlier… that is until he held out his hand to you. You looked at it before looking at his turned away face, seeing the redness that covered not only his whole face but even his ears and neck. With the crew’s eyes turned towards the fish, Usopp took you to the garden, hand securely holding yours.

like my work? why not buy me a coffee (ko-fi)?

[sunriserose1023]

Playing With Fire: Five

TITLE: Sweet Dreams  WORD COUNT: 6886 WARNINGS: THIS IS AN AU; nightmares, previous military experiences, angst, migraine attack

1) Kiss Me When I’m Down 2) Best Laid Plans 3) Manhattan Straight Up 4) The Morning After

“Oh my god, I can’t believe you. We’re already back to this?”

While you spoke, Bucky laid his hands on the counter, hanging his head and huffing out a breath. He lifted his head and met your eyes, narrowing his own as he spoke.

“Because everything’s my fault, right?” “I didn’t say that. Don’t put words in my mouth.” “Why don’t you just go ahead and tell me what I can and can’t do?”

Your mouth fell open, and you shook your head.

“You’re such a bastard.”

Bucky let out a cold, bitter laugh.

“No kidding. But sweetheart, you’re not exactly a walk in the park.” “Guess I learned from the best.” “No arguments there.”

Your eyes were like fire when they met his.

“You see? I knew this was a bad idea. We’re no good for each other.”

Bucky nodded.

“At least we agree on something.”

You rolled your eyes, gathering your purse and walking towards the door. Bucky turned his back to you, crossing his arms over his wide chest, closing his eyes as the jolting boom of guns firing filled his ears.

Wait.

Guns?

He turned back, blinking at the sudden heat, the sand flying up and stinging his eyes, due to the helicopter that was trying to land. You nearly stepped out the door, but he grabbed your arm, pulling you back inside.

“Let go of me, Barnes!” “Wait. Just … just wait.”

It was like you didn’t even notice the heat, or the sand, or even the shots firing around you. You tried to yank your arm from his hold, a sneer on your face as you spit the words at him.

“I don’t want to be near you for one more second.” “Please. Just—“

He stopped, hearing a faint whistle. You finally yanked your arm from his grasp and ran forward.

“Y/N, no!”

He took a step forward as he reached for you, only to have his body airborne as the blast sounded and fire filled his vision.

Bucky sat up in his bed, eyes wide, entire body covered in a cold sweat. He threw the covers off, climbing out of bed and hitting his knees. He shook his head and closed his eyes, wrapping his arms around his bare chest, not entirely sure whether he was trying to calm himself down or hold himself together.

He clenched his jaw and tried to breathe in through his nose, out through his mouth. It was like trying to take a deep breath through a straw, like he was underwater, but Bucky finally calmed enough to draw a ragged breath. He reached up to his nightstand with a vibrating hand, knocking his phone off it, barely able to hold onto it when he finally grabbed it off the ground. Shaking fingers somehow unlocked the phone, tapping the icons until the phone was ringing, pressing the speaker button and wrapping his arms tightly around himself again.

“Buck, you okay?”

Tears came to his eyes, and Bucky squeezed them shut, managing to force a sound from his throat. He heard a sigh on the other end.

“You too, huh?”

Bucky’s eyes opened.

“Wh … What?” “Did you dream about … being over there?”

Bucky nodded, but even without seeing him, somehow Steve knew.

“It’s weird. I dreamed about that time the helicopter landed right in our corner of the sandbox, like seconds before the IED went off.”

Bucky nodded.

“Me … me too.” “I haven’t even thought about that in so long.” “How are … you … so fucking calm?”

Steve chuckled.

“Because I’m a good boy and I go to the meetings at the VA like I’m supposed to.” “Christ.”

Bucky blew out a breath.

“Don’t … start … preaching that shit to me.” “I’m not preaching. And it’s not shit. It can help.” “‘Can.’ Until you give me a foolproof ‘will,’ forget it. Plus, the guy who’s in charge is a dick.”

Steve let out a laugh.

“Sam likes you.” “No he doesn’t.” “He does! He thinks you’re funny.” “We don’t jive, Steve.” “You’re just territorial about me. I can have more friends than you, Buck.”

Bucky managed a smile.

“Long as I get to be your best friend.” “‘Til the end of the line, pal.”

Bucky nodded, whispering to himself.

“‘Til the end of the line.”

He closed his eyes, breathing in deeply, exhaling in a ragged, relieved sigh.

“Better?” “Little bit.”

Bucky uncurled from the ball he’d been sitting in, leaning his back against the bed and stretching his legs out. He took another deep breath and Steve’s voice was gentle in his ear.

“Want to talk about it?”

Bucky sighed.

“It was what you said. The day the helicopter landed and the bomb went off. I haven’t even thought of that in years.”

He shook his head.

“It wasn’t just being over there. I dreamed that … Y/N was here and we were fighting. She started to leave and when she opened the door, I heard gunshots. Sand started flying in my eyes, but I was still in my house. She was still leaving, like the sand and the chopper and the fucking heat didn’t bother her. Like she didn’t even know they were there. She—“

He coughed, closing his eyes and shaking his head.

“She got away from me and I couldn’t get to her before the … the fucking bomb exploded.”

He closed his eyes, rolling his neck, fighting the urge to curl back up into a ball. He wanted her with him, where he could touch her and know that she was safe. He gave a low whine, shaking his head again.

“I don’t get it, Steve. Why would I dream that? Why would I dream about that hell when I haven’t in so long?” “I don’t know man, but I’m right there with you. Sam said PTSD doesn’t have a guidebook. You just have to ride the waves when they hit.” “We don’t have—“ “Shove that shit, Barnes. You know we’ve both got PTSD.”

Bucky opened his eyes and raked a hand through his hair.

“It doesn’t make us weak, you know.”

Bucky nodded, speaking softly.

“Yeah, I know.”

He sighed and closed his eyes again, bending his knees up and resting one arm on them.

“Guess I should just prepare myself for the next one.”

Steve went quiet for a moment, his voice barely a whisper when he spoke again.

“It’ll be the kid in Sokovia, won’t it?”

Bucky swallowed, even though his mouth was dry. His voice was strangled when he spoke.

“Always is.”

Steve sighed.

“You really should try a meeting with us.” “I don’t think it’s a good idea.” “They don’t judge, Buck. And they’ve been through the shit we went through. Not exactly the same, but real fucking similar.”

Bucky rubbed his eyes with a hand.

“I’ll think about it.” “Hey, I’ll take it.”

One side of Bucky’s mouth quirked up in a smile. He glanced at the clock beside the bed and let out a groan.

“I didn’t realize the time.” “Yeah, this one hit early.”

Bucky licked his lips.

“You gonna go back to sleep?”

After a moment, Steve answered.

“Probably not. Every time I get close to sleep, I start hearing shots. Or the chopper.”

Steve didn’t sleep much anymore, and a nightmare like this didn’t help. The only time he slept well was …

Bucky closed his eyes, leaning his head back.

“Have you heard from her?” “Don’t.” “She helps you. Might help you to call her now.” “Buck, I’m asking you, please don’t go there.”

Bucky shook his head.

“Would it really hurt to call her?” “Fuck, Barnes. Yes. Yes it would. We call her Dizzy for a fucking reason, remember? You’re the one who gave her that goddamn nickname.”

Bucky’s eyes widened. Steve only slipped into that sort of language when he was really upset.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to piss you off.”

Steve gave a ragged sigh, and Bucky just knew he was running a hand over his face, then through his hair.

“It’s fine. I just … I don’t know.” “I know.” “I tried to call her yesterday. Surprise, surprise, she didn’t answer.” “I’m sorry, pal.” “Not like I should be shocked or anything. Dizzy does what she wants, and she always has.”

Bucky laughed.

“That is very true.”

Bucky turned to look at the clock again, gnawing on his lip as he thought for a moment.

“You know, Buck … we really need to think about bringing one of those dogs home with us.”

Bucky laughed.

“You think it would help?” “Certainly couldn’t hurt.” “Nice try, Cap, but that’s the last thing I need.” “Don’t even lie, Barnes. You know you’d love it.” “I’ve fought it for this long. Got to keep it up.”

Steve snorted, then sighed.

“Try and get some rest.”

Bucky nodded.

“I will. And Steve?” “Yeah, pal?” “Thanks.” “Anytime.”

The phone beeped as Steve hung up and Bucky blew out a breath. He rolled his shoulders, tilting his head from side to side, wincing when his neck popped. He sighed as he leaned his head back against the bed, then furrowed his brows when a buzzing noise reached his ears. He sat up and grabbed his phone, confusion coloring his features when he saw the FaceTime call. He tapped on the answer icon, a smile coming over his face when he saw you.

“Hey, baby.”

The smile slid from his face when he heard your sniffle. He straightened up, holding the phone a bit closer.

“What’s the matter?”

You gave a watery laugh, shaking your head.

“Nothing.” “You’re crying. That’s not nothing.”

You shook your head again.

“I just …” “Talk to me.”

You pushed your hand through your hair, letting out a sigh. You looked at the camera, giving Bucky a view of your wet eyes. You took another breath, letting it out slowly.

“You called me.” “What?” “A little while ago, you called me.”

Bucky shook his head.

“No, I … I called Steve.”

You nodded.

“Yeah, after you called me. You must have done a three-way call and muted me or something, because I could hear you, but you never heard me.”

Bucky blinked slowly, then closed his eyes.

“You heard us?”

You nodded, tears filling your eyes. Bucky gave a deep exhale before moving the phone to where he could see you.

“I’m fine.” “You’re not.” “Y/N, it just—“ “Bucky.”

He ran a hand over his face.

“Don’t pity me.” “Bucky—“ “I don’t want you to pity me. And don’t feel sorry for me, either. I’m fine.”

You closed your eyes, looking away from the phone. Bucky could hear you sniffling, and he put his phone on the bed and stood up. You had a great view of the ceiling in his bedroom, but you didn’t have to see him to know he was pacing.

“How long have you had dreams like that?”

He huffed out a breath.

“They started when I was still over there. Got real bad when we first came back.”

He sighed.

“I drank a lot, at first. The drinking dulled the pain some. And then when I started vet school, I stopped sleeping as much. Found I could get away with a couple hours a night. I guess the studying was something I could focus my mind on. If I was constantly thinking about school, I couldn’t think about being over there and what we left behind.”

You crawled out of bed, walking to your closet and pulling out a pair of leggings and a hooded sweatshirt. Bucky continued to pace, continued to talk.

“I don’t know, the longer time passed the better it got. I didn’t have to drink so much. You helped.” “Me?”

Bucky smiled, walking back to the bed and picking up his phone. He frowned at the darkness he saw on his screen.

“Y/N? Where are you?” “I’m still here.” “What are you doing?”

You sighed, moving back to where you’d set your phone down and picking it up. Bucky shook his head as soon as he saw you.

“No. Babe, I’m fine.” “You’re not fine. And I can’t stand you to pace around by yourself when I’m perfectly capable of coming over.” “Don’t.”

You stopped, and Bucky sighed, rubbing a hand down his face.

“You don’t want me to come?” “Don’t think that. I do. Baby, I would love to see you right now.” “Then I’m coming. Or you can come here to me.”

Bucky sighed again.

“It’s late. I’m okay. I’ll be fine.” “I don’t want you to sit up by yourself all night.” “So what, you’re coming to sit with me?”

You threw your arms out.

“I don’t know!”

Bucky smiled.

“You have work in the morning?”

You sighed.

“Yes.” “Then stay at your place.” “Buck—“ “I’m good now. I promise.”

You lifted a hand to scratch at your head, fluffing your hair while you were at it. You rolled your eyes and Bucky smiled.

“Let’s get together tomorrow. We can go eat somewhere or something.” “What do you mean by ‘something’?” “I don’t know. Something outside of my bedroom?”

You laughed, and Bucky grinned. After a moment, you huffed out a breath.

“Fine. I’m putting my pajamas back on.” “Ooh, prop me up and let me watch.”

You laughed.

“Bucky!” “What? What good is FaceTime if you can’t have a little fun?”

You shook your head, cheeks flushing red. Bucky caught the look in your eye and raised an eyebrow. A slow grin came over his face and his voice dropped.

“I saw that look on your face, doll.”

You shook your head.

“What if someone sees?” “Who’s going to see? I’m all alone. You’re all alone.” “I don’t know, what about the FBI agent inside my phone?”

Bucky laughed.

“That’s a good one.”

You glanced down before meeting Bucky’s eyes again. He slowly shook his head, biting his bottom lip. You licked your lips and shook your head.

“If you tell anyone about this…” “Who am I gonna tell?”

You raised an eyebrow and he grinned.

“Stevie will never know. Scout’s honor.”

You rolled your eyes and Bucky laughed, but his laugh trailed off when you propped your phone on your dresser.

“I’ve got to say, this would be a lot more fun if you were here in person, you know?”

Bucky nodded, tongue thick in his mouth as your hands danced at the hem of your hoodie. You moved your hands to the strings that hung by your neck, gently pulling each one intermittently. Bucky coughed, clearing his throat.

“You, uh… you’re going to make me regret not coming over, aren’t you?” “You’re the one who decided that it was ‘late’ and we needed to stay in our own places.”

Bucky laughed at your use of air quotes, and he groaned as you lifted your sweatshirt just a bit, giving him a view of your stomach.

“Baby…”

You shrugged, pulling your arms out of the sweatshirt, then pulling it over your head. That left you in a black tank top, and you dropped the hoodie to fix the messy bun you’d tossed your hair in before you’d tried to go to sleep. You glanced to your phone, saw Bucky staring at you, and you smiled.

“I miss you.”

He blinked, a few seconds before his voice ground out an answer.

“I miss you, too.” “How much?”

Bucky groaned.

“Enough to take freakin’ phone sex to a whole new level.”

You giggled, shimmying out of your leggings, leaving you in only a pair of bright pink panties.

“Christ, doll.”

You turned where your back was facing him and looked over your shoulder.

“I went to the gym with Nat tonight. Our class was called Booty Blast.” “I can tell. Jesus.”

You wiggled your butt, giggling again when he cursed loudly. You walked to your phone, leaning over the dresser and watching his eyes widen at the sight of your cleavage. He shook his head.

“Fuck it. I’ll be there in twenty minutes.” “Buck, no.”

He groaned, pushing his hands through his hair.

“I’ll quit torturing you.” “Don’t you dare.”

You laughed, taking your phone to the bed and climbing in, sliding beneath the covers. You propped your head on one bent arm and smiled at him. He shook his head.

“When I see you again…”

You smiled.

“But you promised we’d do something outside the bedroom.”

He groaned, shaking his head.

“Damn it.” “I promise I’ll make it worth your while.”

His eyes softened.

“I know you will.”

You tilted your head, moving to rest it against your pillow.

“Talk to me until we fall asleep.” “What do you want to talk about?”

Bucky yawned as he flipped through a few pages on his desk. He’d somehow managed to fall asleep again after talking to you, but the nightmare had hovered at the edges of his consciousness, keeping him from getting the rest he needed. Plus, the rambunctious, bitey kitten he’d dealt with earlier had worn him out.

He signed his name to the bottom of a page, yawning again, this time wide enough to warrant closing his eyes. He opened them again and jumped.

“Damn it, Steve. Make some noise.” “Old habits.”

Steve shrugged his shoulders and handed over a steaming cup of coffee. Bucky gave an appreciative moan, taking the cup and taking a sip.

“God, that’s good.” “Should I leave you two alone, or …?”

Bucky raised his middle finger and Steve laughed. Steve took a sip from the cup of coffee he held in his hand, glancing down at it.

“You get any rest last night?”

Bucky couldn’t stop the smile that spread over his face.

“Little bit.” “What’s that grin?”

Bucky gave a soft laugh.

“Apparently, when I called you last night, I also called Y/N. She heard our conversation, so I had to explain what was up.” “How’d she take it?”

Bucky sighed.

“She tried to come over. Didn’t want me to be alone.” “Would it have been the worst thing?”

Bucky shook his head, taking another drink.

“No. But I didn’t want her driving so late.” “Like she drives anyway.” “Fine, Ubering so late.”

Steve laughed, and Bucky smiled, then sighed.

“I don’t know, it helped. Just talking to her, seeing her face.” “Oh, she FaceTimed you?”

Bucky nodded, looking down at his cup and smiling. He glanced up and saw the grin on Steve’s face, then pointed a finger at him.

“Don’t. Do not. I promised her I wouldn’t say anything to you.”

Steve laughed, holding a hand over his chest.

“That hurts.”

Bucky grinned, and Steve rolled his eyes.

“Well, I’m glad she helped you.” “Yeah, especially watching how cute she is when she first falls asleep.” “Okay, I’ve got to leave you on that. Disgusting.”

Bucky laughed, leaning back in his chair and taking another sip of the coffee. Steve shook his head, tossing his empty cup into the trash can and leaving Bucky’s office. Bucky turned in his chair, glancing out the window as he finished off his coffee. A knock sounded at his door and he spun back around in his chair.

“You forget something, Stevie?” “Guess again.”

Bucky’s face lit up in a smile when he saw you leaning against his door. He stood to his feet as you walked into the office, shutting the door behind you and rounding his desk.

Bucky wrapped his arms around you, holding you tightly. You put your face in his chest, running your hands up and down his back, then just holding him. He turned his face to your hair, closing his eyes and breathing you in.

After a few moments of just standing there wrapped up in each other, you leaned your head back. Bucky blinked his eyes open and looked down at you, closing them again when he pressed his lips to yours. One of your hands slid to cup his cheek, rubbing your thumb over the stubble on his chin as he kissed you. He finally broke the kiss, and you moved your thumb to rub his bottom lip. He kissed the tip and made you smile as you murmured to him.

“You okay?”

He nodded.

“I am now.”

You smiled as he pulled you into his arms again, pressing his cheek against yours. You pushed your fingers through his hair and glanced down, a smile coming over your face.

“Hey Buck?” “Hmm?”

He pulled back and you bit your lip as you glanced up at him. He raised an eyebrow and you smiled, moving your hands to his chest.

“How long has it been since you made out with someone in your office?”

A slow grin spread over Bucky’s face.

“This office?”

You narrowed your eyes and Bucky laughed, moving his hands to cup your face.

“Not once.” “Well, I think it’s about time we change that, hmm?”

Bucky nodded, sitting down when you gently pushed at his chest. You climbed into his lap, lowering your head and pressing your lips to his.

You walked out of Bucky’s office trying to fix your disheveled hair. You’d straightened your clothes as best you could, but your hair was a disaster. You walked to the front desk, searching for a mirror or at the very least a reflective surface, stopping when you heard a low chuckle behind you. You glanced over your shoulder to see Steve walk out of the shadows, the stick from a lollipop between his lips.

“Did ya have a good visit, Y/N?” “Oh, shut up.”

Steve threw his head back and laughed, walking up to you and squeezing your shoulders before brushing a hand down your back.

“Jeez, your shirt’s so wrinkled.” “Yeah, well.”

He smiled as he walked to stand in front of you.

“You missed a button.”

You groaned and he laughed again.

“What happened to your hair? It looked so good when you came in.” “Bucky happened. He gets so handsy, and now I’ve got to go back into work looking like … don’t even say it.”

Steve laughed, holding up his hands.

“I wasn’t.” “Liar.”

Steve rolled the lollipop around with his tongue and you rolled your eyes. He walked to lean over the waist-high counter.

“When you gonna quit the corporate bullshit and come work with us?”

You laughed.

“Pop would have a full-scale heart attack.” “Yeah, you're probably right.” “But then he’d see that the vet clinic makes his baby girl so very happy and everything would be fine.”

You shook your head, a smile on your face as you turned around to see Bucky saunter into the room. He walked up to you and laid a hand on your hip, pulling you to him and kissing your lips. Steve made a disgusted face as he turned away from the two of you and you giggled as you lifted a hand, wiping the lipstick you’d reapplied off of Bucky’s lips.

“Must be nice in that dream world of yours, Barnes.”

He smiled.

“You are welcome here anytime. I’d give you Steve’s job in a heartbeat.” “Hey!” “Hey, what is it that you do again?”

Steve closed his mouth, turning back to the filing cabinet. You giggled again, and Bucky kissed your forehead before he stepped away from you.

“So I’ll pick you up at seven?”

You nodded, and Bucky gave your hand a squeeze. Steve cleared his throat, taking the sucker from his mouth.

“You might want to get going. There’s a … less than desirable pet coming in about five minutes.” “What do you mean by ‘less than desirable?’”

Bucky and Steve both flicked their tongues out of their mouths—Steve’s a bright blue, thanks to the sucker—and made a hissing noise. You gasped as a shiver shot through your spine and shook your head, hurrying out the door, Bucky and Steve’s laughter following you to the parking lot, where a car was waiting for you.

You pulled your phone from your purse, checking the time. You glanced around, then gave a sigh, walking back inside the building. You rode to the fourteenth floor, walking to your office and setting your purse down on the desk before sitting in your chair.

You closed your eyes, leaning back, trying your best to fight off the tears that were threatening to spill from your eyes.

“Ms. Y/N?”

You opened your eyes to see your intern in your doorway. You blinked, sitting up in your chair.

“Peter? What are you still doing here?” “I usually stay until everyone’s gone.” “Really? Why?” “I can catch up on whatever I need to.”

You nodded.

“That all?”

He nodded and shrugged his shoulders, cheeks turning a dusky pink. You smiled, crossing your arms over your chest.

“This wouldn’t have anything to do with the night time cleaning crew and a certain new hire, would it?” “What?! No! No, of course no—why would you think that?”

You bit your lip, unable to hide the smile. Peter sighed, walking into your office and slumping down in your chair.

“It’s obvious, isn’t it? I’m being too obvious.” “Honey, no.”

Peter gave you a look and you made a face.

“It’s not obvious obvious, but … I notice things.” “That’s why you’re so good at everything.”

You rolled your eyes, a smile on your face. Peter grinned at you and you sighed.

“I’m not good at everything. I just …” “Fake it?”

You snorted.

“Yeah. Fake it ‘til you make it, Mr. Parker.”

Peter nodded, and you leaned over, tapping your fingernail on the desk. Peter glanced at your hand, then up to your face. You nodded towards the elevators, where the cleaning crew had just arrived.

“Go for it.”

Peter looked back at you, eyes wide. You shrugged your shoulders again and he swallowed. You bit your lip from smiling again and he stood up, smoothing a hand down his shirt. He started walking out of your office, tripping just outside the door. You winced, but Peter hopped right back up, straightening his shoulders and walking down the hall, towards where the cleaning crew had gone.

You chuckled to yourself, moving the mouse on your desktop and typing your login information. You pulled up a document and began typing, letting your mind focus on the task at hand. When you were finished, you lifted your head, rolling your shoulders, going still when you looked at the door.

Bucky stood there, arms crossed over his chest, muscles bulging out the sleeves of his navy blue scrub top. You swallowed, blinking once before you cleared your throat.

“What are you doing here?”

He sighed, letting his arms fall, pushing off from the wall and walking through the doorway, coming to sit in one of the chairs in front of your desk. You swallowed again as he stared at his hands, then lifted his blue eyes to yours.

“Do you want me to give you the excuses? Or do you want me to just own it and try to make it up to you?”

You shrugged your shoulders.

“You don’t have anything to make up.”

Bucky sighed again, pushing a hand through his hair.

“Don’t do this.” “Do what?” “Close off like this.”

You shrugged again, and Bucky huffed out a breath.

“Come on, Y/N.”

You rolled your eyes, turning back to the computer. Bucky leaned forward, placing his hand on the desk.

“I’m serious. Talk to me.” “There’s nothing to talk about.” “The hell there isn’t.”

You flicked your eyes to him, seeing the worry there. You shook your head.

“It’s fine, Buck.” “No, it’s not.”

You sighed and he stood up.

“I told you I’d be here at seven, and here I am…”

He glanced at the watch on his wrist.

“An hour and a half later.”

He stared at you, and you licked your lips before you sat back in your chair.

“You said you had an excuse. What is it?”

Bucky blinked, then nodded.

“Emergency surgery. I couldn’t take the time to stop and call you, and my phone’s been acting weird all day, so I couldn’t even send you a text. I had actually sent Steve to see if they could fix my phone at the store, which was why I was there by myself when the surgery came in.”

You nodded, and he went on.

“By the time I was finished and I realized what time it was… I thought the best thing for me to do would be to come and find you, talk to you face to face.”

You nodded again.

“Well, I appreciate it.”

Bucky hung his head, blowing out a breath before looking at you again.

“Don’t do that.” “What?” “Act all cold and clinical and professional. It’s me, Y/N. Yell at me. Let me have it.” “I don’t want to.”

Bucky shook his head.

“What do you mean?”

You clenched your teeth and let out a shaky breath, fighting to keep the tears that wanted to spill over at bay.

“I’m tired and I just want to go home.” “Let me take you.” “No, I’ve got a car coming.” “Y/N, I don’t want us to leave it like this.” “Like what?” “All weird.”

You shook your head, shrugging your shoulders.

“It’s not weird.” “You’re lying!”

You looked to him, fire in your eyes as you stood up.

“What do you want me to say, Barnes? That it’s no big deal? That it was no big deal when I stood down in front of this building for half an hour like a complete idiot waiting for something that was never going to come?” “Y/N, I’m sorry. I was coming—“ “But you couldn’t let me know that.” “My phone was fucked up! Steve took the phone to get it fixed, which meant I couldn’t call you, couldn’t text you, and with Steve gone, no one could call.”

You nodded, and Bucky sighed.

“You have every right to be pissed at me. I should have called you, but I couldn’t. I had to jump into the surgery and I couldn’t do anything else.”

You swallowed, then licked your lips.

“I’m not pissed at you. I get it. Things happen. It’s just …” “What?”

You shook your head and shrugged your shoulders.

“We’ve been through this before.”

You watched the recognition light up Bucky’s features. You watched him swallow, watched him straighten his shoulders and his spine, slowly standing to his feet. He shook his head.

“Y/N. This is … this isn’t like before. I’m not like I was before.”

You nodded.

“At the end there, you stopped calling me. You showed up when you wanted. Whenever you felt like it. I had to make so many excuses for you, and you didn’t even care.”

Bucky ran a hand down his face, then stepped closer to your desk. He held out a hand to you.

“I … I don’t know what to say to you. I’m sorry I wasn’t here. But just because this one thing happened doesn’t mean I’m the same bastard that I used to be.”

You nodded, crossing your arms over your chest.

“I can see that.” “In some aspects, you mean.” “Don’t put words in my mouth.” “Christ, Y/N. What do you—“ “Ms. Y/N?”

You and Bucky turned to the door, where Peter was standing. He narrowed his eyes at Bucky, and you raised an eyebrow.

“Peter, you’re still here?” “Is everything okay?”

Bucky crossed his arms over his chest, and after a moment, Peter did the same thing. You couldn’t help the laugh that bubbled up from your throat. They both looked to you with a confused look on their faces and you shook your head.

“Peter, honey, thank you. Really. But I’m fine. Bucky was … he was just leaving.”

Bucky let his arms fall.

“What?”

You shrugged your shoulders.

“We’ve been kidding ourselves, Barnes.” “You're serious right now?”

You sighed, and Peter silently made his way backwards out of your office. You reached up to scratch at your temple, at the dull ache that was beginning to make itself known.

“One mistake and you’re writing me off?” “Buck—“ “Why can’t you see that I want this to work? That I’m trying really hard here? Why can’t you give me a chance?”

You moved your lips, but no words would come out of your mouth. He sighed, pushing a hand through his hair.

“Fine.” “Bucky.”

He turned away from you, waving both of his hands as he walked out of your office. You sat back down in your chair, putting your face in your hands, the tears coming before you could even try to stop them.

You sniffled as you stared out the window, tears still slipping down your cheeks. The lights of the city through the window gave your office a gentle glow, since you turned the light off and shut the door a while ago, just after Bucky had left.

Your phone started vibrating and you glanced at the caller ID, sitting up and wiping your face before you answered it.

“Hello?” “Hey baby doll, you’re on speaker. Tell your sister hello.”

You smiled at the sound of your mother’s voice, tears still leaking from your eyes. There was a chorus of hellos shouted to you and you grinned as you spoke.

“Aw, hey guys! What’s happening with my favorite people?” “Oh, you know. I’m so busy here lately, but I think I’ll manage.” “Pop, no offense, but I meant the kids.”

Giggles filled the line and your smile widened.

“Y/N, I’m going to be in a ballet recital!” “It’s in like 4 months, honey.”

You gave a soft laugh.

“Abby, that’s wonderful! You have to let me know when it is so I can be sure and be there.” “Mama will.” “Right, because Mama is the official family secretary.”

You could just see the eye roll your mom had to give then, and you smiled.

“Gray, don’t you want to tell her something?” “Y/N, I’m going to be in the school play.” “What? Oh Gray, that’s awesome! What play is it?” “The Wizard of Oz. I’m going to be the Cowardly Lion.” “That’s my favorite part!”

Your brother laughed, and you tapped a hand on your desk.

“Let me know when that will be and I’ll be there.” “Mama, can you—“ “I will, buddy. I’ll text you later, Y/N.” “Thanks, Mom.”

Your eyes welled up with tears again and your mom’s voice came through the speaker again.

“Honey? You okay?”

You pressed your lips together, pulling the phone away from your face as you sniffled.

“I’m fine. Just a long day and I’ve got a headache.” “Take some Tylenol.”

You smiled.

“I will, Mom.” “Are you still at the office?” “Yes, Pop.” “This late?”

You licked your lips.

“It’s by choice, Pop. I’m about to go home in a few.” “You sure?”

You hung your head, trying to keep from sobbing out loud. You closed your eyes, feeling your heartbeat throbbing in your head.

“Yep. I’m okay.” “Honey, why don’t you come up and see us soon? I know the kids would love to spend some time with you.” “We’ve got a big project coming up at work, but after that…”

You kept your eyes closed, pressing your palm against your forehead in an effort to alleviate the pounding.

“Don’t work so hard, princess. Take a breather.” “I’ll talk to my boss about that.” “Want me to put a bug in his ear?” “You’d love that, wouldn’t you?”

Your dad cackled and you shook your head.

“I miss you guys.” “Then come see us!” “I’ll see what I can do.”

There was a resounding chorus of voices telling you that they loved you, and you managed to choke out that you loved them back. You hung up the phone and put your head on your desk, groaning as tears slipped from your eyes and the pounding in your head seemed to intensify.

Your phone vibrated again and you lifted your head to check the message.

You know you can always call me. No matter what time, day or night. I’m always here for you. That’s what mamas are for.

You smiled, sniffling once.

I know, you texted back. I love you.

Not as much as I love you.

You wiped a hand over your face, groaning when you saw the mascara smeared over your palm. You grabbed a tissue and wiped your face clean, shutting your computer down and grabbing your bag. You stood up and asked around your desk, pressing a hand to your forehead.

You gave a quiet moan and slowly walked to your office door, walking through it and shutting it behind you, gasping when you glanced to the floor.

Bucky looked up at you, knees drawn up and arms resting over them. You blinked and he got to his feet, groaning as he stretched and straightened.

“What are you doing here?” “I got to the elevator and decided I’m not letting you go this easily. You want to fight me every step of the way, fine. I am more than willing to fight for us, even if you’re not.” “I … I’m not …”

You closed your eyes, gasping softly when Bucky reached out and laid a hand against your cheek. You leaned into his touch, tears slipping from your eyes.

“What, baby?” “I’m so tired. My head hurts so bad.” “Let me take you home.” “I can call a cab.” “You can waste the money and we’ll take a cab, or I can just take you home in my truck.”

You kept your eyes closed, reaching out and touching his shoulders, pulling him closer until you could rest your head against his chest. His arms wrapped around you and you sighed, snuggling closer into him. One of his warm hands came to rest on the back of your head and you gave a soft moan.

“Let’s go home.”

You nodded at his whispered statement, blinking open your eyes and wincing at the bright light of the hallway. Bucky kept his arm around your shoulders, holding you against him in the elevator and down to the parking garage. He all but loaded you into the truck, and you closed your eyes as he started the engine.

Bucky kept one eye on you as he drove to your apartment, reaching across the seat and taking your hand in his. You gave a sigh and gave his hand a weak squeeze.

“You okay?” “I think I have a migraine.” “Can I help?”

You gave a minute shake of your head.

“I just need to sleep it off.” “Do you have some medicine for it? I can stop at a store or something.” “I think I have something. It’s just throbbing.”

Bucky sighed, flipping on the blinker and turning. You were quiet the rest of the way, and when he parked at your apartment building, he climbed out of the truck and walked around to your side, smiling when he noticed that you were asleep.

“Come on, baby. Let’s get inside.”

You blinked your eyes open, whimpering as pain shot through your skull. Bucky helped you from the car, holding still as you leaned into him, wrapping an arm around you and holding you close to his side.

“Can you make it inside?”

You nodded, moaning at the pain that caused. Bucky kept his arm around you, leading you into the building, into the elevator, holding you close as the two of you rode up to your floor. You handed him the key and he unlocked the door, taking your hand and leading you inside. He turned the light on in the kitchen, switching it off again when you hissed at the pain the light sent radiating through your skull.

“Where’s your medicine? Kitchen or bathroom?” “Just let me go to bed.”

Bucky sighed, but took your hand, leading you into the bedroom. You sat on the bed, tears slipping from your eyes again. Bucky helped undress you, slipping one of his shirts, a threadbare one you’d stolen long ago, over your head. You lay down, moaning when your head hit the pillow, reaching out and grabbing Bucky’s hand as he pulled the blankets up around you.

“Buck?” “Rest, baby. I’m not going anywhere.” “I don’t want to give up on us.”

Bucky smiled, using the tips of his fingers to gently brush the hair back from your forehead.

“We can talk about it later, sweetheart.” “I just don’t want to get hurt again.” “I know.” “I don’t think I can bear it.”

Bucky swallowed, continuing to brush his fingertips over your forehead, slowly slipping them down your nose.

“You won’t have to, doll. I promise.” “Don’t leave.” “I won’t.” “Promise?”

Bucky smiled.

“I’m going to make a few calls, then I’m climbing in this bed right beside you.” “Okay.” “Okay. Get some rest.”

You gave a subtle nod, the gentle rhythm of Bucky’s fingers lulling you to sleep. Once you were out, Bucky sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. He stood up and walked to the doorway, looking over his shoulder and staring at you, swallowing as he absently rubbed a hand over his heart.

PART SIX: Heart to Heart

TAGS: @star-spangled-man-with-a-plan, @captain-rogers-beard, @bionic-buckyb, @sebbytrash, @until-theend-oftheline, @evansrogerskitten, @fandommaniacx, @jessica-bones-winchester, @kittenofdoomage, @mrs-squirrel-chester, @iminlovewithasuperboy, @winchesterenthusiast, @thatsmrsbuckybarnestoyou, @dugan365, @youreahandsomedevil

[eirist]

Little Bits and Pieces of Heaven

ONE PERFECT MOMENT

One-shot #: 7

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. Song fic.

Rating: T

Note: Scenes are not necessarily happening while the lyrics are playing. My suggestion is to keep the song on a loop until you finish reading or you can just totally ignore it and just read the fic. TDs stands for tone dials. Italicized words are song lyrics.

Summary: The swordsman and the navigator share a moment with no pretenses.

I found a love for me Darling just dive right in And follow my lead…

It was Brook who brought the blasted tone dials on the Thousand Sunny after attending a music festival in a jovial island, where the Straw Hats momentarily docked to replenish their supply and stretch their legs.

Almost everyone was excited with their musician’s newest acquisition. Brook may have been a rock star during the crew’s separation but had overlooked (or deliberately overlooked) to bring any of his tone dials on board for the others to enjoy.

After a boisterous debate between the loud members of the crew, it was eventually decided to place the TDs inside the aquarium bar. And when said dials started playing, a hush fell over the rambunctious crew and even their high-spirited captain paused momentarily to listen to the melody.

 Brook was thrilled with his friends’ reactions right down to the bones (since he IS only bones after all). He had personally picked the songs recorded on the dials from the artists and musicians who were at the festival and thought his nakama might like it.

And like they did.

For the next days the door of the aquarium bar stayed open as the tone dials played all day long, filling every corner of the Thousand Sunny with different melodies.

Well I found a girl Beautiful and sweet I never knew you were the someone waiting for me…

Zoro’s ears grew accustomed to the sounds that were playing. He did not participate in the crew’s current fascination with the music. Each Mugiwara had his or her own favorite and depending on what is playing, the swordsman can distinguish who’s got their hands on the TDs.

That one particularly bouncy song playing all morning ‘til noon would be Luffy’s. Said captain got hooked on it so much that he played it over and over again, subjecting the crew to a humming marathon of that particular ditty as they go about their daily tasks.

Except him, of course.

Not more than once his ever attentive ears caught Usopp or Chopper humming theirs. Twice he heard Franky singing under his breath during dinner. Even that pathetic excuse of a cook was not excluded from the madness; crooning as he prepared their meals, his feet tapping in time with the music.

Though it seemed like Robin did not get caught up in the music craze, he stand to be corrected when he heard the dark-haired woman humming while tending to her flower bed as he secretly tried to nap under Nami’s mikan trees.

And the navigator was just as bad as the rest of them. When the Sunny was anchored for the night and everyone is asleep, he would hear the tone dials playing Nami’s favorite song.

'Cause we were just kids when we fell in love Not knowing what it was

For three consecutive nights, he kept seeing the navigator stealthily crossing the lawn deck to head to the aquarium bar. Her long, orange hair glinting under the moonlight that it easily caught his eye.

And for three consecutive nights, he would silently follow her to check what in the world she’s up to.

A brief glance at the porthole and he would find the same scene as the previous nights: the navigator sitting on the floor with an open bottle of wine, a glass on her hand, eyes closed, singing softly.

She was totally immersed with the melody that he decided not to bother her and simply chose to walk away, letting her be alone with her wine and her song.

I will not give you up this time

Before the week ended, Zoro—who thought he was resistant to any influences—succumbed unconsciously and found himself humming that certain song, much to his horror.

And it didn’t help that he can actually hear it as he made his way up the ladder of the crow’s nest to relieve Nami of her watch duty.

He wisely shut his mouth to refrain himself from humming again. If she finds out about it, he’ll never hear the end of it.

He approached the open trap door and peered inside. It was the same scene as with the aquarium bar. He noted the tone dials turntable lying on the crow’s nest’s floor along with a bottle of wine and one, unperturbed navigator.

But darling, just kiss me slow, your heart is all I own And in your eyes you're holding mine

Nami acknowledged his presence with a soft ‘hmmm’ and a slight tip of her head as she sipped her wine.

“That thing had been used too much,” he drawled as he made his way inside. Nami angled her head towards him, a smile pulling at the corners of her lips.

“It’s a wonder it hasn’t snapped in two,” Zoro continued. “Luffy’s already abused it a lot these past few days.”

“Debts and threats did the trick.” The orange-haired girl replied flippantly.

“And scheduled uses?”

Nami’s lips quirked a little at that. “Yep. Or Luffy will hog it all day.” He raised an eyebrow at her. Lately he noticed that her mood seemed to improve whenever she hears that song or whenever she hums it.

Baby, I'm dancing in the dark with you between my arms

“Well time to hit the sack, witch. It’s my shift now.”

“Just a few more minutes.”

“It’s already an hour past midnight. Don’t you need your beauty sleep or something?”

Nami laughed at that. “Gee, thanks for your concern. But I think I want to listen to this a little more.”

“You know me, always keeping an eye out after your well-being.”

That made the navigator laugh more. “Pun unintended?” She winked at him, half-teasingly and half acknowledging his scarred eye. “Of course I know Zoro,” she stated, tilting her head so she can stare at his face and see his reaction. “You always look out for me. It’s a nasty habit of yours.”

He smirked at her in agreement.

Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song

“Now run along swordsman,” she inclined her head towards the trap door; her soft, orange curls swaying with the movement. “I’m still good here, give me a few more minutes.” She switched the TDs on and her song started playing again.

Sighing, he decided to settle himself on the floor just inches away from where she was sitting. It would actually be nice to fall asleep near her surrounded with scents and sounds he can only associate with the navigator.

Placing his hands behind his head, “Just wake me up when you’re going down.” He muttered before closing his eye.

“Sure you don’t want some first?” Nami slid the wine bottle towards him. Zoro muttered a ‘no’ and mumbled something about ‘sake’ that she didn’t quite catch, before drifting off.

When you said you looked a mess,

Nami stole a glance at him, her pretty face lighting up in amusement when she saw what he was doing. It wasn’t really that surprising to her. Zoro must have heard the song a dozen times already, mostly from sticking his nose in her nightly business (of course she’s aware that he’s following and peeking), that it’s bound to affect him sooner or later.

He may not admit it. But apparently the usually stoic man got ensnared too by the crew’s current obsession, rather unconsciously. Because there he was, lips moving on his own accord in what one can classify as singing, albeit silently, hoping she wouldn’t notice.

But she did. She always does. Especially when it comes to him.

I whispered underneath my breath

She brought her knees to her chest and closed her eyes, breathing the salty sea air deeply. Resting her head on her knees, she basked in this rare moment where she has her music, her wine and her swordsman in one place as the Thousand Sunny bobbed lightly on the ocean.

But you heard it, Darling, you look perfect tonight

Well I found a woman, stronger than anyone I know She shares my dreams, I hope that someday I'll share her home

A light breeze blew softly playing with the docked ships’ flags as they swayed back and forth in a steady rhythm. The night was still and the port silent as Zoro finally made his way towards where the Sunny was anchored.

The other Mugiwaras were still at the town’s pub drinking and eating to their hearts’ content. It was the perfect opportunity for the swordsman to catch some sleep without his rowdy crew mates to disturb him.

He left amidst Luffy, Usopp and Chopper dancing on the top of the table, chopsticks jammed in their nostrils as the whole bar drunkenly cheered them on.

With a bottle of sake in one hand Zoro ambled towards the ship, looking forward to some time alone with his drink and nap.

I found a love, to carry more than just my secrets To carry love, to carry children of our own

There was that song again, randomly playing inside his head. He winced a little knowing that he will not be able to stop himself from humming that blasted ditty.

He blames Nami for this. He thought, taking a swig from his bottle before nonchalantly making his way up the ladder leading to the deck.

We are still kids, but we're so in love Fighting against all odds

He stilled for a moment before hoisting himself up on the deck. So that wasn’t all in his head. Halfway up the ship he realized the reason why he suddenly had the urge to hum it.

The song was playing from the Sunny.

Come to think of it, he hadn’t seen Nami in the bar earlier after dinner.

When he finally reached the railing, he stopped short to take in the scene before him.

Moonlight bathed the lawn deck of the Thousand Sunny, making the grass glimmer every now and then. The aquarium bar door was open and from inside, the tone dials were playing the one song that’s been plaguing him day and night. Everything was kind of surreal. Like inside a dream. In the midst of the deck, there was their orange-haired navigator. Her eyes were closed and a serene smile was on her face as she languidly twirled in circles in some sort of dance, her bare feet grazing the grass.

I know we'll be alright this time Darling, just hold my hand

Zoro leaned back against the railing and watched her with concealed amazement, sake momentarily forgotten and absently placed atop the railing.

It might be that to others the scene he was witnessing was kind of crazy…

But not to him.

This was Nami in her unimpeded; no walls up, no hindrances, free from the restrictions she imposed upon herself.

Nami just being the real Nami and not just the money loving cat thief.

This is her most open, her most vulnerable.

Be my girl, I'll be your man I see my future in your eyes

This is what she would’ve been if the pirate’s life did not manage to grasp her at such an early age. If she had grew up to led a normal life and enjoyed living it.

Maybe that’s the reason why she was so attached to the song. It brings back the lost childhood desires of the girl who grew up too quickly to survive the world.

Without a second thought, he pushed himself away from the railing to join her in one moment of openness.

Baby, I'm dancing in the dark, with you between my arms Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song

She didn’t flinched when he suddenly enclosed her in his arms and he realized that she had been aware that he was watching her for some time.

Instead, she tilted her head to look at him and let out girlish laugh. She wrapped her arms around his neck, tiptoeing slightly. And his hold tightened around her waist.

When I saw you in that dress, looking so beautiful

It wasn’t like he was intruding with her privacy by being there.

More so, if anyone should see this openness she rarely show, it should be him. The one who had understood who she really is right from the start.

I don't deserve this, darling, you look perfect tonight

The skirt of her yellow dress brushed against his legs as they moved. He had forfeited his yukata in favor of a white t-shirt and was distinctly aware of Nami’s hands leisurely sliding up and down his shoulders and arms in a soothing gesture before entwining themselves around his neck again.

His eye studied her face carefully. She was always beautiful.

Even more so under the silvery moonlight that seemed to make her glow.

Baby, I'm dancing in the dark, with you between my arms

He rested his forehead against hers and her eyes closed to bask in this rare moment with him.

They swayed languorously in a sort of dance but not quite so. The soft ocean breeze blew, playing with the long orange strands of her hair, unfurling the intoxicating citrusy smell in them…

Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song

Zoro lifted a hand to tuck an errant lock behind her ear, letting it linger beside her cheek in the softest of caresses, the arm around her waist pulling her closer to him. A contented smile spread across the navigator’s lips as their eyes met.

No words where needed to confirm what they both know right from the start.

I have faith in what I see Now I know I have met an angel in person

She tilted her face so that her cheek was resting against his. He breathed deeply, taking in her scent as he turned his head to let his lips touch her face in lightest of kisses.

And she looks perfect

The world around them cease to exist. There was only them, the song and this extraordinary moment of tranquility where they both wore their hearts out in their sleeves.

I don't deserve this You look perfect tonight

[pingo1387]

Dream a Little Dream

Frobin Month 2018  Week 3: Dreams  @frobinfandays 

Robin rested her head on Olvia’s lap, closing her eyes. She was small, a little older than eight years. The great tree of Ohara hung over their heads, knowledge hidden in its trunk and secrets in its branches. 

“Mama, what’re we having for dinner?” she asked, eyes still closed. 

“Hm . . .” Olvia ran a hand through Robin’s hair. “What do you want?” 

“Home rice.” 

“Then we’ll have that.” Robin opened her eyes and looked up at her mother, who smiled. “My little angel.” 

Robin grinned and used her ability to create tiny wings on her back, made of hands and fingers. Her mother laughed. “You’re so creative.” 

“Thanks, mama!” The wings vanished and Robin hugged Olvia around her torso. “I love you.” 

“I love you, too.” 

“Hey, there you are.” 

Robin sat up and scrambled away at a tap on her shoulder, staring at the man with blue hair, unusual arms, and prosthetic nose. 

“I know it’s super rude, so pardon the intrusion,” he said, giving Olvia an awkward nod before returning attention to Robin. “Robin, you gotta wake up.” 

“Who’re you?” Robin said, frowning. 

“Don’t do this,” he exclaimed. “You know me---it’s Franky. Franky. Remember?” 

Robin shook her head, eyes wide. “Mama, do you know him?” 

“No,” Olvia said. “Sir, what do you want?” 

“Sir? That’s a first,” Franky remarked. He shook his head. “Robin, it’s me. Franky. Your---well, never mind. You’re dreaming right now.” He knelt to look her in the eye. “Do you really not know me? Or any of the others?” 

She shook her head, inching away. 

“Luffy? Nami? Chopper?” 

She shook her head again. 

“Look,” Franky said. “We were in a fight. Long story. You got involved with some guy who knocked you out. He had a Devil Fruit power, something like the Dream-Dream Fruit? Anyway, he said that it makes it so the victim falls asleep and never wakes up because they’re having such a good dream they don’t want to wake up.” 

“Robin, don’t listen to him,” Olvia said. “Sir, please leave me and my daughter alone.” 

“Do you get it? You’re dreaming right now.” Franky glared at Olvia. “Hey, I dunno how much I should thank you for Robin, but you ain’t the real thing, so stay out of this.” 

“Don’t talk to mama like that!” Robin snapped, slapping Franky with her ability. 

“You still pack a punch,” Franky said, rubbing his cheeks. “Robin, please, listen. Do you know how you got here?” 

Robin frowned and looked up at Olvia for an explanation, who glared at Franky again. 

“Do you know why the Government hasn’t found you or your mom yet?” Franky persisted. “Or, if this isn’t a dream, why I’d know things about you like your Bloom-Bloom Fruit, or that you like cake and flowers, or that you love to read . . .” He sighed. “It’s, like, twenty years later in reality. Try to remember.” 

“If this is a dream, and I’m a grown-up, how’re you here?” Robin said triumphantly, avoiding his other questions. 

“Because Chopper and I built a machine for me to visit you in your dream,” Franky said patiently. He bowed his head, suddenly weary. “Robin, it’s been three days since you fell asleep. The others haven’t been able to find the guy who did this to cut him into pieces, so this is a last resort. We all miss you.” 

“Well, even if this is a dream, I like it,” Robin said with childish logic. “So I’m gonna stay here.” 

Franky pinched the bridge of his nose and sat down. 

“Go away,” Robin added after a minute. 

“I will,” Franky said. “Just answer three questions for me, then I’ll leave and never come back, I promise.” 

“Deal.” 

“First, what did the Poneglyph in Alabasta tell you?” 

“The location of Pluton,” Robin said. She frowned, furrowing her brow. “What’s that?” 

“Second, what happened to the blueprints for Pluton?” 

“You burned them---stop that,” Robin said, hugging herself. 

“We had a deal. And third . . .” Franky couldn’t bring himself to look at Robin. “How old were you when you lost your home?” 

“Eight.” Robin’s breath hitched in her throat as the world spun around her. “But, I’m not eight, I’m---” 

“Hold my hand,” Franky said, and Robin took it without thinking. 

“How old---? Ohara, Mama, Saul---” She looked up, an adult woman again. “Franky.” 

And the world faded to black. 

Franky and Robin opened their eyes simultaneously. Robin sat up, wincing, and Chopper slowly removed first her helmet, then Franky’s, disconnecting them. 

“It worked?” he said, anxious as ever. 

“Sure did,” Franky said, cracking his neck. 

Chopper approached Robin, staring into space, and removed the IVs from her arm one at a time, applying first pressure and then bandages to the spots. 

“Robin?” he said, staring up at her. “How do you feel?” 

Robin covered her face as she started to shake with sobs. Chopper looked at Franky, but he shook his head and went to Robin. 

“Hey, I’m here,” he said, reaching out. “Don’t worry.” 

She slapped his hand away and stood, stumbling to the door. Chopper ran after her to help her to her room, and Franky stayed behind, staring after them. 

Everyone was greatly relieved by Robin’s recovery and wanted to see her immediately, but were disappointed upon learning she wanted to be left alone. Nami and Chopper acted as bodyguards to the women’s quarters, determined to keep the others away from her. Sanji brought food to be carried to her by Nami, and every time the door so much as cracked open Luffy tried to get a glimpse of her, earning him a sound beating. 

“Maybe I messed up,” Franky said that evening to Chopper. “She woke up, but I really intruded on something private. And I ripped that away from her. Was that okay?” 

“She’ll be fine,” Chopper said, though empathetic as he was, his eyes filled with tears. “It was just a dream. She’s strong. She’ll be okay and I dunno if she’s mad at you but if she is she won’t be for long.” 

“You’re smart,” Franky said, patting his head. “We need more men like you in the world.” 

Chopper grinned and wiggled in place, and Franky took a drink of cola, watching the sunset. 

A thump on the stairs made Franky look up sleepily from his workbench, and he started when he saw Robin approaching, wrapped in a blanket. 

“Evening,” she whispered, coming to stand next to him. 

“Hey,” Franky said. “How you feeling?” 

“Better. I’m sorry for earlier.” 

“No way, I should apologize to you,” Franky said, shaking his head. “I dunno if I was too blunt, waking you up like that---like, should it have been more gentle? And seeing your private dream on top of it, that’s---” 

She silenced him with a finger over his lips. 

“I needed it,” she said, removing her hand. “I don’t mind that you saw. It’s nothing I wouldn’t share if asked. Waking me up was understandable and necessary, and I don’t know how else you could have done it, with how stubborn I was being.” She smiled. “I’m sorry I didn’t listen to you . . . and I’m sorry for hitting you when I woke up.” 

“You know that’s what I like.” 

Robin raised a threatening hand and Franky held up his own in defense. 

“I was going to ask,” she said when they’d both dropped their hands, “if you wanted to sleep together tonight.” 

“Cuddling or the other kind?” 

“Cuddling.” 

“Yeah, of course. Where?” 

They ended up settling down in Robin’s own bed, since Nami was taking watch. Franky watched Robin as she turned away from him, scooting back until she pressed against him. Her breathing grew slower as she fell asleep again, and Franky pressed a kiss to her shoulder. 

“Sweet dreams.”