Yes, That Is Indeed Zoro Taking Up The Entire Row. That Row Is Dedicated To Him.

What appeals to me about whump: an incomplete list

Help a Family in Need

I am reaching out on behalf of my dear friend, Mohamad S., who is facing one of the most challenging times of his life. Mohamad is 37 years old and left his homeland in 2015 in search of a safer and better future. He’s a kind, hardworking man, and his small family has always been his greatest priority.

Living abroad, Mohamad has recently endured unimaginable loss and financial strain. Amidst the ongoing conflict in his homeland, his mother passed away, leaving behind his sister and her five young children—the last remaining members of his immediate family.

As the situation worsened, Mohamad managed to help his sister and her children escape to safety in Egypt, covering their immediate needs and securing a temporary refuge for them. Since then, he has been fully responsible for providing everything they need to survive during this transition.

In his efforts to support his family and cope with this devastating loss, Mohamad has found himself deeply in debt. To make matters even more difficult, he recently underwent knee surgery, which limits his ability to return to work for the foreseeable future. This has made it even harder for him to manage his financial responsibilities and the pressing need to provide his family with a stable future.

Mohamad is now working to bring his sister and her five children to join him in Belgium, where he hopes they can find stability and opportunity after all they’ve endured. This transition, however, requires significant resources that he is currently unable to meet alone.

For privacy reasons, we are not sharing Mohamad’s full name, as he has chosen to keep his identity discreet. While he initially refused the idea of asking for help, I couldn’t stand by and watch him struggle alone. I insisted on doing this for him because he deserves a chance to overcome these challenges.

Your contribution will help Mohamad repay the debt incurred during this difficult time, cover ongoing living expenses for his family, and assist with the costs involved in bringing them safely to Belgium.

Mohamad has been a good friend of mine for years, and I’ve always admired his resilience and generosity. Any support, no matter the size, will make an incredible difference in helping Mohamad and his family rebuild their lives after these painful experiences.

Thank you for reading his story and considering helping a man who has always done everything he can for his loved ones.

Adam

✅ Vetted by Association: @bilal-salah0

Donate & share: Donation Link

gofundme.com

Donate to Help Mohamad reunite his family and clear his debt, organized by Adam Bin Ali

I am reaching out on behalf of my dear friend, Mohamad S., who is faci… Adam Bin Ali needs your support for Help Mohamad reunite his family

A dose of care

Pairing: Law x reader

Summary: You have a habit of forgetting to take your thyroid pill in the mornings, much to Law’s frustration. As a doctor, he knows how important it is, and he makes it his personal mission to ensure you never miss a dose—whether you like it or not."

CW: none, I think

Word count: 400 words

A/N: inspired from my own experiences 💀I always forget to take my thyroid pill

The moment you stir awake in the dim light of the submarine’s cabin, you feel Law’s steady warmth beside you. His arms are wrapped around you, holding you close beneath the blankets. You sigh contentedly, nuzzling into his chest as his fingers gently trace circles on your back.

For a while, there is only the quiet rhythm of your breathing and the soft hum of the ship around you. He presses a sleepy kiss against your forehead, his grip tightening ever so slightly. "Mmm… stay like this a little longer," he murmurs, his voice husky with sleep.

You smile, letting the warmth of his presence lull you into a peaceful haze. Minutes pass in comfortable silence before Law shifts slightly, his fingers idly skimming over your arm. Then, his movements still. His brows furrow as his eyes slowly open, and you can almost see the gears turning in his mind. He stiffens just slightly.

Then, in a low but firm voice, he asks, "Did you take it yet?"

You roll your eyes and snuggle deeper into his chest. "It’s too early for this," you mumble, attempting to evade the question.

His grip tightens. "That’s not an answer."

"I’ll take it later," you huff, trying to shift away, but he doesn’t let you go.

"That’s what you said last time." His tone is strict, his patience thinning. "And the time before that."

You groan, covering your face with your hands. "It’s just one pill. Missing one day won’t kill me."

"That’s not the point." His voice sharpens, and he pulls the blanket down slightly, forcing you to look at him. "I’ve told you before how important it is. You can’t just forget. Your body relies on it."

"I’m not a kid, Law!" you snap, irritation flaring in your chest. "I can handle myself."

His golden eyes darken with frustration, but there’s something else in them, something softer. Concern. "Then prove it," he challenges. "Take it now."

You cross your arms, stubbornly refusing to move. "I’ll do it in a bit."

"No, you’ll do it now." His voice leaves no room for argument. "Or I swear, I’ll get up and shove it in your mouth myself."

You glare at him, but he doesn’t waver. The stare-down lasts a few tense seconds before you groan dramatically. "Fine!" You grab the pill bottle from the bedside table with exaggerated annoyance and pop the pill into your mouth, swallowing it without water just to prove a point.

Law watches you the entire time, only relaxing when he’s sure you’ve taken it. "Good," he murmurs, pulling you back into his arms. "Now you can go back to being a brat under the covers."

You grumble but let yourself be held, secretly enjoying the warmth of his embrace. Even when he’s strict, even when he’s scolding you—he cares. And that makes all the difference.

i wish ao3 allowed people to give kudos per each chapter. These 100k word NOVELS need more love than 200 tiny digital hearts ☹️

one piece but i hit them with the tbhk beam

you know the trope where the monster is on a rampage but is so careful with the people they care about? anyway

The Menacing Bra |Master-list|

Fluff, swearing, kissy-kissy, crack, cringe and cliche?? Longish-drabble

You and the cook have a moment, and he actually grew a pair to make a move

•-•-•-•-••-•-•-•-••-•-•-•-••-•-•-•-•

Laundry day.

Oh boy. What absolute joy, the repetitive chore that tested your limits. Chipping away your mental capacity, and your motivation to do anything at all.

You’d spent hours on end, scrubbing and rinsing, only to wear the clothes again, ferevently repeating the cycle.

You cursed, pinching a clip to your nose. You had always wished there was some cheat sheet, some easy way out, other than free labor from the boys. Especially, when you’d gotten stuck with Nami and Robin’s clothes. You’d kindly asked them, seeing their closets were getting low and they’d never decline an offer like that.

Because honestly, who would? Washing clothes by hand was time consuming, and neither you nor the women had the patience for it. Sure, you might be throwing yourself under the bus here, but you cannot for the life of you fucking throw soap and bubbles for an hour.

Wiping the sweat from your brow, you scrubbed and submerged the materials hoping you could get done before lunch.

Luckily, the odds seemed to be in your favor. You hadn’t procrastinated as much as you normally did, so you’d be done with this before lunch. But the peace didn’t last, distant crash emitted from downstairs.

“Spoke too soon,” you sighed, hearing a distant laugh and girlish scream follow after another. A familiar angry shout rang from the kitchen and a chaotic catchy cackle echoed.

You didn’t even want know what the cook was dealing with now.

When paired, the trio of boys were a nightmare. Though speaking of them, if you even had to touch their laundry you’d pass away. That was an actual health hazard, and even thinking about it made your skin crawl.

You shuddered, shaking your head. A grossed shiver ran through your spine causing bubbles to fly.

Ew. Just imagining the men’s laundry was a shit show. Maybe not Sanji’s, as he actually cared about his hygiene—but regardless, it was still nasty.

Sanji, who seemed to holler again—made you crack a smile. Your thoughts centered to him as he consequently reprimanded the idiots for whatever ‘crime’ they outdrew.

Though the glimpse of his agitated face made your smile widen.

The way his brows would have creased into a frown, and the way his jaw would have clenched—sharpening his neck... You silently cursed as your mind filtered elsewhere, leaving the rest of you to the mercy of your imagination.

Ok, sure, maybe you had fallen for the hopeless cook but how could you not?

He’d always showered you in devoted affection—heartfelt compliments, and any craving you could possibly think of. You saw him as the perfect package.

Yeah, maybe he could be a little perverted in the terms of others, but that was just his charm. Or so you’d convinced yourself. You never had an issue with him, he’d always been kind—and that kindness easily swooned you.

Yes, he had unhinged compliments, but it was heart-felt. It had to be. Because deep down, his selfless acts and perverted thoughts felt more like a puppy love than anything. Appreciation, admiration, and his firm morals…were always so oddly refreshing.

Though, speaking of that appreciation, you were almost done. You just had to hang up one of your undergarment’s. The task was easy as the deck finally quieted, meaning lunch was ready.

So as quickly as you could, you stepped onto the rail, reaching to a height where you could hang the material. Ignoring the breeze that rushed by, you hopped down to deal with the soapy water—dumping it overboard.

“____, my love! Lunch is done,” Sanji called, his voice glowing with an excited smile as he steadily rounded the corner to take you inside.

“Yeah, just a sec.” You replied, shaking the soapy suds from the container, watching them fall to the ocean below.

“No worries, I can wait darling.”

Turning back, you weren’t met with the handsome face of the cook, but a sharp gust of wind and a wet towel. It speedily flew towards you, smacking you straight in the face.

“Shit—“ Thwack

“Damn wind—you alright?” His voice reached, muffled over the violent winds. The immeasurable pressure howled over the ship, shoving you against the Sunny’s rail with blunt force.

You managed a muffled holler as a response, but the towel had blocked your vision. Musky soaked flowers welcomed your sense of smell, but it quickly disappeared as it thudded to the floor. This wind died down, and you were left soaked. Your blue tank hard a darker hue, and your hard smudged to your face.

You annoyingly wiped the edges out of your face, quickly asking the cook if he was okay. But he wasn’t. You immediately froze at the sight in-front of you.

No.

Actually die.

He’s dead. You killed the man—or well, the bra that covered his face did. He was as red as a tomato, frozen in place.

You would’ve laughed at the sight if you weren’t so embarrassed.

Hesitant hands came in-front of you, debating what to do with yourself in this situation.

“Sanji?”

“S-so soft...” he whispered, dramatically plummeting to the floor.

There he goes…

A long huff escaped you, watching the pathetic trail of blood stream from his nose, and you slowly knelt beside him calling his name.

Sanji didn’t respond, so you tried again, and again, and again. But he was utterly helpless. He twitched like some possessed bug—far too gone to be saved, so you decide you decided to give him air.

Peeling off and tossing aside the bra, your hands hovered yet again, hesitating. You gently patted his cheeks, hoping to snap him out of his spell.

“Hello? Earth to sanji?” You called, patiently waiting. Though as time passed, you began to grow worried. You almost thought to call Chopper, but you didn’t really want to explain this situation.

Far too awkward, far too embarrassing.

So you took matters into your own hands.

“Hey,” You finally chided, swatting his face—leaving light pink marks. “Sanji, snap out of it!”

. . .

Nothing. Literally nothing.

God, how bad was he down for you? Like—religiously? Or—

Ok rude. That was rude. Don’t think that.

You regretted the act of your harsh hands, and impulsive thoughts, but this was ridiculous. His face was blissfully unaware of your torment, and he’d just been in heaven.

Thriving through the cusp of your bra—you couldn’t believe this.

A frustrated sigh escaped you, and you lightly cradled his face, quietly murmuring his name. No matter the frustration or embarrassment, you could never keep yourself from watching him, he was just too pretty for that.

Luckily, your gentle movement did the trick. It was almost instant.

“Yes, d-darling?” his eyes fluttered open, and he stuttered bringing a blue handkerchief to his nose, cleaning away the mess.

“Are you okay?”

“Haha, yes—lovely,” He breathed, locked in the aftermath of your bra. He couldn’t believe he’d seen the world.

You only seemed to grumble at his words, but your heart hammered when his eyes shined to your own. He gently smiled and you just froze, quietly watching him.

“Are you sure?” you asked, leaning a bit back.

“You’re pink.”

Ugh. Blow by blow, your heart was taking too many hits, and you wish you could just disappear.

This was not your friendly situation of: you could do this. This was embarrassing.

Sanji chuckled, leaning on his heels. He was far from you in your kneeled form, and it was just another hit to your chest.

“Positive Love,” he reassured, tucking his tissue aside. He seemed oblivious now, or—as he so acted, but for such a doting idiot he didn’t seem to take a hint.

“Are you alright?”

“Huh? Why wouldn’t I be,” you muttered, averting your gaze. You were quick to stand, but he’d been quicker helping you to your feet.

“Just wondering, that towel flew by before I could stop it,” he said, looking you over. Taking in your dampened shirt and messied hair— he fell in love with you all over again.

An innocent silence went by as you fixed your hair, taking notice to his stare. You thought to comment on it, maybe to change the subject and flirt—but you’d just point out your own habits.

So you opted not to.

“Yeah—uh, it did,” you said awkwardly, transfixing your gaze to the deck, which he’d taken quick notice to. But you hadn’t been slick enough to keep to yourself.

“That wind was pretty crazy, huh? Pushed me into the rails.” you laughed, rubbing the back of your neck.

“That it did, is your back alright chérie?”

“Huh? Oh—it’s fine, I’m okay. Push and shove is fine, I mean, no—it’s not.” you didn’t even know what you were saying now, you were tumbling over your words but you couldn’t seem to catch yourself.

But Sanji didn’t seemed to mind, he loved your little rambles.

He could tell you were nervous, and he just loved it. Inside, he was a wreck himself, but seeing you like this made him confident. Sanji saw how he was affecting you, and he only wanted to see more of it.

So, he pushed to make you blush.

“I should—“ you went to say something, but his hand found your waist and your stomach tightened.

There it was.

The cook gave you the option to step away, but you didn’t and he continued. He stepped closer, keeping a kind smile to his face—patiently waiting for you to look up to him.

But you only panicked, you didn’t know what to do, but you didn’t want it to stop. You wanted to kiss him—but was that the wrong move? Was that he wanted? Probably, but you’d didn’t know how to follow through with it. You were a complete ditz to this.

Romance wasn’t your forte, but it sure was his. He knew how to sweet talk a lady, and he knew how to treat one. He was the embodiment of a gentleman—and he’d never dare hit a woman.

Not even if his life depended on it.

“I don’t bite, you know,” he murmured, watching your hands stiffly come to your front.

You finally turned to look up at him, and he wanted to kiss you then and there, but he held back.

Sanji always had with you. He was gentle, and he always made sure you were comfortable. He was a flirt, and you were awkward but that didn’t stop him.

Reactions had never been hard to get out of you, and he liked that, but as more of those nervous rambles drew out; he found himself wanting more.

Unknowingly, you drew him in like an addiction, something he could just go hours watching. Taking pleasure from it. Nervous or rambling he adored you more than he could ever describe.

“If I’m being too much you can tell me,” he reminded, keeping considerate.

“No, no not at all I just,” your voice trailed off and you found yourself looking to his lips.

He caught that, and he took the hint pulling you closer. You chest bumped against his and you leaned back.

“Sorry,” you muttered, averting your gaze.

“What? Don’t apologize, there’s nothing you to be sorry for,” he chuckled, dragging a tender hand along your back, sending tingles of warmth along with it.

He looked to you, and he was drawn to your lips like honey to a bee. But that train of thought was quickly interrupted. His eyes widened as you impulsively leaned up, kissing him.

But it wasn’t long before he melted.

A soft groan muffled against your own, and he cupped the back of your head deepening the kiss.

Sanji always thought you looked sweet, but this far surpassed any imagination he could conjure.

His lips longingly met yours, and he groaned when your hands slid up his chest to his shoulders. His legs almost buckled at the feeling, and he needily slipped his tongue across yours.

You parted to take a breath, but Sanji was too eager. He kissed you again muffling a noise, as he walked to push you against the rail, tilting your head back.

A warm breeze blew by and hands were everywhere, dragging along every part of you, carefully squeezing your shirt and skin. Fingers dipped beneath your tank, trailing up your stomach to the soft dips in your ribs—brushing against the underside of your bra.

SLAM

A door across from you opened, and an impatient captain ruined your moment. “Sanji! Can we eat now?!”

With quick reflexes, the two of you flew away from each-other. You quickly fixed you tank while he tidied up his tux, an awkward cough sounded from you.

“Hey what are you—“

“Nothing!” You dismissed, coughing again—trying to rid the burning feeling in your mouth. You looked beet red quickly passing past the boy.

“He just came to tell me lunch was done, we can eat now!” you chirped, wiping a thumb your lips to rid it of any dampness—fleeing the scene.

You couldn’t believe you’d been so close to being caught.

“Uh—____ wait—“ Sanji tried, but he was fairing off no better. A deep blush was absorbed to his face spreading down his neck. He was a mess.

But as soon as you left, he was seething. It was like a switch as it came to play Luffy had interrupted something that he’d have continued.

“Huh? What’s her deal—“

“Did you have to ruin that?!” He snapped, grabbing the stretchy idiot by his shirt, rapidly shaking him. He didn’t even bother to hide fluster.

“You idiot! Could you not see I was having a moment! I’ve waited forever for this—and you just had to plow through and ruin it!”

“What moment?! And what do you mean ruin it! I just said I was hungry!” his rubber head helplessly flopped back n’ forth, as he tried to avoid the cooks wrath, but he’d ultimately failed.

Yes, Luffy might’ve been hungry.

But, Sanji had been starving.

it got covered up but zoros can says monster penis

inspired by @microwavingfranky

some strawhats posting

Gonzo |Master-List|

Usopp x reader, fluff, comfort, mentions of depression, angst, platonic relationship with the straw hats, (they don’t play about you), crack, !fluffy bonus!

Summary: Growing overwhelmed, you disappear off the ship for a walk, and a certain someone is very worried.

A/N: First time really writing Usopp! I’m happy with how it turned out, hopefully, I captured his character well. Also, yes, I didn’t properly cut the pictures out, but do I care? No. Am I going to ever fix it? Probably not.

•-•-•—•-•-••-•-•—•-•—•-•

3:05pm.

“Hey, has anyone seen ____?” Usopp asks, swinging into the galley with a trinket he meant to show you.

Lunch had let up a few hours ago, and he hadn’t seen you since. You were keeping to yourself, that was fine, he didn’t mind. But he was getting worried.

The whole crew was.

Sanji paused, setting down a pot of something he’d been working on. “Is she not in her room?”

“No, I’ve looked and she’s not anywhere!”

It started a few days ago, he nor the crew knew what happened, but they’d given you your space. They didn’t pressure you, they just were there.

Each and every member knew what it was like to experience a funk, and Usopp especially, knew everyone dealt with it differently. The sniper was lenient, and he wasn’t pressuring you to feel better. However, he was trying to make you smile.

It wasn’t much, but he’d made a fool of himself on purposes, acting clumsy or saying random things that would usually make you smile—but recently, there’d been none of that. And it broke his heart.

He missed your laugh, and he missed you.

“Well, let’s not panic. I’m sure she’s around,” Robin assured, setting down her tea. She turned to Franky, asking if he’d seen you below deck, maybe near the docking systems.

They’re were plenty of hiding spots there.

The cyborg hesitated, thinking back. But it was just as Usopp feared.

“I haven’t seen her, sorry bro. Did you check the crows nest?”

“Yes, I already said I’ve looked everywhere. I don’t know if she left or if she—“

“Usopp.” Nami interupted, resting a hand in his shoulder. “I’m sure she’s okay, you know her.”

“I’ll go ask the others if they’ve seen her,” Sanji grabbed a cigarette, smoking it while he renewed Robin’s tea. He turned to leave, but that was quickly interrupted.

“Sanji! I’m hungry!” Luffy shouted, swinging the door open—near slamming it in the cook’s face.

“You idiot! Watch where you’re going!”

Luffy only laughed, leaving a short apology. He would’ve strolled in if it wasn’t for the worried look on his best-friend’s face. Usopp looked close to tears, and that didn’t sit right with him.

“Wait, did something happen?”

“No,” Robin replied, “we’re just looking for ____.”

“____? Well where is she?”

Sanji, painstakingly, drug a hand down his face. “That’s what we’re trying to find out dumbass.”

“So…I’m guessing you haven’t seen her?” Usopp muttered, looking to the small metal bended flower in his palm.

It was metallic, with sanded edges that had accentuates of gold—something he knew you’d like. It was small, but it was something. And he planned to make more with you, as he figured it’d keep you busy.

He knew you hated mindless things, but if you were doing it with him, it wouldn’t feel so empty.

Luffy shrugged, shaking his head, “No, I haven’t, have you looked?”

“Yes Luffy, I looked.” Usopp grit, tightening his hand on the flower. His uncharacteristic snap sent the room quiet, and he averted his gaze.

“Sorry, I’m just worried.”

“It’s fine Usopp, we’ll find her. We still haven’t asked the others yet.” Nami smiled, “don’t get all worked up about it now.”

“Yeah!” Luffy agreed, peeking down the hall.“Zoro! Have you seen ____! Usopp’s worried and can’t find her!” He shouted, making the navigator cringe. She immediately sent a glare, but she didn’t comment. It was simply the truth.

“Hah?!”

The swordsman came down the hall, with an arm rested atop his swords, while Brook and Chopper followed behind.

Two of them shared a looked, but shrugged clueless, the third—Chopper, hesitated. He was the first to mutter your name, mulling over this morning and afternoon before pausing, gently shaking his head.

“No. Is she with you guys?”

“No, she isn’t.” Sanji sighed, blowing out smoke.

“Maybe she went for a walk?” Brook input.

“No, she would’ve said something.” Usopp said, looking to the window. It wasn’t impossible, but it wasn’t entirely not possible. “She always does.”

“Maybe it was a spur of the moment kinda thing? Maybe she forgot something in town?” Chopper offered, though it didn’t ease anyone’s worries.

“She still would’ve said something,” Robin murmured. “It’s not like her.”

“Yeah, it’s not.” Usopp breathed.

“Well, let’s check the ship again before we get our heads in a twist,” Franky stood, cracking his knuckles. “I’ll check the docking area.”

“Good idea,” Nami agreed, standing from her seat. “Let’s just split up and look, if we can’t find her here, then we’ll go check the island.”

Everyone nodded, prioritizing your safety over anything else. It was rather strange you disappeared so suddenly, but you were just here a bit ago. If you weren’t on the ship, you couldn’t of gone far.

You just had to be close.

4:40pm.

Usopp was on the verge of a mental breakdown.

He began to doubt everything.

Himself.

This situation.

The fact that an hour had passed, and you still weren’t found.

Literally. everything.

He felt like shit, and he felt like the worst boyfriend in the world. How hadn’t he noticed you left? What if you were taken? What if you’d fallen off the ship and drowned??

He was horrible. Horribly, horrible.

Usopp was now ranked the best, for the worst human in the Grand Line.

He didn’t deserve you.

He couldn’t even believe this was happening.

Without another word, Usopp hopped off the ship, ignoring his crew-mates calls as he trekked l the woods. He couldn’t keep dwelling on this, he just needed to find you.

What if you were hurt?

What if you weren’t coming back?

That thought rattled him the most, and he soon wondered—pushing away a branch, if he’d triggered any of this. If he’d made you feel this way.

It put an ache in his chest, and tears stung his eyes. He loudly called your name, growing frustrated with himself more than anything.

Self-blame cracked his resolve, but it didn’t slow him.

You couldn’t have gone far.

Nami’s exact words, and she was right.

But, another hour already passed.

5:55pm.

“Stupid, stupid—stupid—this can’t be happening.” Usopp cursed, feeling the need to tear out his hair. He let out a fake laugh, calling your name again.

“Are you even alive?!”

Oh. My. God. Idiot, why would you even say that?! What if she heard you? What if she didn’t?

“Dumbass, just find her—stop thinking for once and just do. You’re such a scaredy cat.” Usopp desperately called your name again, damn near tripping over his own feet as a branch he pushed, mis-fired.

It swung back, and he dodged, letting out a yelp.

“Now the woods hate me too, great.”

He wiped some dirt of his face, quickly standing up.

SNAP

Usopp froze.

He stiffened like a board, and looked down.

He hadn’t been the one to step on a branch. It was just grass.

Now, either that was you, or that was some evil demon coming to rip out his guts.

He much preferred you.

“Uh, ____?” He shakily muttered, whispering your name as if it’d help his unparalleling anxiety.

Very slowly, he got up.

He quietly peeked over the overgrown bushes, and saw you. His shoulders slacked, and he let out a breath of relief. Warmth flooded his chest, and he relaxed against the tree beside him,

Every negative idea he had disappeared in an instant. All he could think about was you, and that you were okay.

“There you—“

Usopp slipped, his hand tore off tore bark from the tree and it gave-way, sending him crumbling to the ground. He wanted to get up, he did, but he felt much too relieved. Besides, he needed to cool down anyways.

“Usopp?”

His heart perked, and he shifted to his knees, but you were already kneeling beside him. Your hand carefully found his, and he could finally smell your scent.

Ugh, he could cry.

“What are you doing out here?”

“No. What are you doing out here?! You just left? I’ve been looking for you everywhere!” Usopp went to scold you more, but he hesitated seeing the exhausted look on your face.

Gods, now want the time.

Your eyes were tired, and softened as if you’d been crying. Your face was roughed, with scratch marks aligning your arms and legs—as if you’d been running from something.

“Are you okay?” He asked, reaching for your face.

You stiffened, swallowing back tears.

Managing a weak nod, the reaction was immediate, your mouth opened to speak—but nothing came out. Your brain gave mid-way and you couldn’t find a stupid enough excuse as to why the hell you were out here, alone.

Usopp waited, but as he realized you couldn’t talk, he didn’t hesitate to pull you in. His arms wrapped around your shaky form and he squeezed you with all his being, as if your life—or maybe his, depended on it.

“Don’t answer that, I know you’re not. I’m sorry I asked.” He mumbled, holding the back of your head.

Tears of his own came to, though he held them back. Now wasn’t the time to be frustrated with you, it was time to understand. Time to talk, not to scold, but be whatever you needed.

A minute or so passed, and he finally pulled back.

He reached for your face again, attempting to soothe you, but you burst into tears.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to disappear,” you choked, shakily wiping your tears, but he caught them instead. “Everyone’s probably so worried, I wasn’t thinking—“

“Hey, hey, stop—it’s okay. No one’s mad,” he shushed, holding the side of your head. “Yeah, we were worried, but we get it—I get it. You don’t need to explain yourself, please don’t apologize.”

You sniffled, listening, but not truly hearing. There were so many feelings and things to think about at once; guilt, shame, frustration—it was overwhelming. You didn’t even know what to say.

Another broken sound followed, and out of embarrassment—you’d wished you hadn’t left the ship at all. You’d wished you’d talked, you’d wished you’d communicated, but for some reason you felt like you couldn’t.

And, you never could understand why.

You felt, mute.

Usopp knew the feeling, he lived it. He went through it, back in the past—called a liar, never believed—never understood. Never wanted, never thought worthy of existing.

He knew.

He knew how it felt.

He pulled you in for another hug, gently lowering you to the ground as he gathered you in his arms. His head rested atop yours, and every fight, every injury—any pain he’d ever felt wasn’t comparable to this feeling now.

“It’ll be okay.” He murmured, holding you tighter.

“I know it’s hard, and I know it’s a pain, but you’re here now, right? That’s something isn’t it?”

A weak smile crossed his face and he leaned back to look at you, “You’re strong—so—so strong, and I’m so proud of you,” he held your face, kissing the corner of your eye.

“You came out here to breathe, right?” he asked, rubbing his thumb over your tears.

There was a quiet before you agreed, and he smiled. “Yeah, and maybe you didn’t tell us you came out here—and we were worried, but this meant something.”

You looked to him in confusion, not getting where he was going—as it all sounded pointless. But you knew better than that. It wasn’t nothing.

“You coming out here meant you’re trying, and—that’s everything right now.“

“I guess so,” you mumbled, but it was clear you were hearing it now.

Usopp gently ran his hands to your shoulder, rubbing them gently. “You guess so? Well I’m sure so.”

You let out a weak sniffle, and rubbed your eyes to fight a smile.

He was very determined to say in the least.

“Oh, wait—here,” he muttered, pulling out a trinket from his pocket. The item fumbled clumsily in his hands, and he weakly laughed when it fell. “Whoops,” he blurted, finally placing the flower in your hand.

“Oh, Usopp…”

“Yeah, yeah I know—pretty awesome right?” his eyes lit up with hope at your own, and his thoughts flowed easily.

“I made it this morning, with one of those zinc piece you helped me shear off.“

“You did?”

“Mhm! I did, and I thought maybe we could make more—together? If you wanted?” he offered.

“You don’t have to if you don’t want to, I just thought—“

“Yeah, I can.” you interrupted, smiling softly. Your sniper rambled one, explaining how he crafted the piece, gesturing to your hands to show you as if he wasn’t trying distracting you.

It felt something you’ve been lacking, meaning, even if it was just him talking about metal.

“And—bam! Just like that you have a flower!” he beamed, tossing the trinket up in the air before back into your hand. “Once we get back, I’ll get the stuff, and maybe we can…” Usopp’s voice trailed, and you leaned closer which seemed shut him up.

It wasn’t Usopp’s intention, but his hands stuck awkwardly out by his sides. He didn’t know what you were doing, but he wasn’t necessarily complaining. Your hand gently found his thigh, and you placed a soft kiss to his lips as thanks.

He deflated like a balloon, and his hands tenderly found your waist.

“Hey…” he whispered, reaching for you again. “What was that for?”

“What, I can’t kiss you?”

A gentle breeze blew between you, and birds chirped faintly in the distance. The sky was turned a gentle orange, while clouds of pink surrounded gentle stir-ins of blue.

“No—no, that was perfect, I loved it. I just, I wasn’t expecting it. I mean, don’t get me wrong I love when you kiss me—I just,” he choked over his words, letting out an embarrassed groan as he turned his head.

His hand found the back of his neck, and he slowly looked back. “I-I mean…”

“I know what you mean, but still. Thank you.” you assured, grabbing his hand. You placed the flower in his palm, and you held it there to emphasize his work. You couldn’t be more than thankful, really, and you loved seeing him like this.

It showed he cared, and he was always so easy to tease.

“Huh?” Usopp muttered, looking to your palms, before quickly searching your face. “For what?”

“For being there for me, I appreciate it.”

“Oh, yeah—of course.” he muttered, shifting his hands. It was stupid of him, but he didn’t really know what to do with them.

They were so warmly held in yours it sent his heart racing.

“You don’t need to be nervous, I don’t bite.”

Usopp cleared his throat, leaning back as if you’d burned him—not really, but your touch felt like it had. He crossed his arms, turning his head.

“I’m not nervous, you’re just…pretty.” he admitted—but immediately regretted it.

Now wasn’t the time idiot.

You let out a snort, laughing quietly. “I appreciate the compliment, but your still blushing wise-guy.”

“I am not!” he bursted, taking a stand. His face was as red as your scratches, and he couldn’t find the words to save his dignity.

It was long gone.

“Well—uh, you’re blushing too! And I am wise! Cause I’m the—guy of wise,” he hit his heel against the ground, coughing awkwardly.

He needed more of Sanji’s couple training.

“Mhm, very.” you agreed, laughing sofly as you shifted up. Your limbs ached in protest, but Usopp caught it. He saw the shakiness, and he saw the exhaustion as his hands settled to stable you.

He muttered your name, carefully bringing you forward. “You okay?”

“Yeah,” you nodded, sending a tired smile.

It was small, but it finally reached your eyes, and that subtle change fixed the worry in his chest. He reciprocated the gesture, brushing some messy moss of your clothes. “You ready to head back?”

A hum was your response, and he looked you over again. He didn’t know what happened, but he wasn’t gonna let you walk on your own.

An idea crossed his mind, and he smirked.

“Oi—?”

In the blink of an eye he had you on his back. “Now get ready for the Usopp express!” A mocked evil laugh met your ears and he looked at you over his shoulder. His expression softened and he kissed your cheek, “Good to go?”

“Always,” you rested your head to his shoulder, wrapping your arms around his shoulders.

“You know, you should offer this Usopp express more often.” you added, and your words tickled his skin. He honestly didn’t know how to answer that, and he stalked forward.

Your breath and words washed over his neck, and he felt like the biggest sap in the world. He ducked under a branch, keeping you close as his hands found your thighs.

Usopp’s steps were careful, and steady—as they always were, but everything inside was the complete opposite.

He felt like a mess.

7:20pm.

Finally making it the ship, the sky was warmed with an onset blue and dark orange. The ships lanterns had been lit, overcasting a cozy glow over the rails.

The sunset hung overhead, and on-top the deck was a certain swordsman who watched the forest from afar. He hadn’t let up since Usopp left, though he trusted him to find you.

Brook watched along, hollering as he alerted the crew of your presence.

“He found her?!” Chopper zoomed from the deck, immediate to call your name, and everyone was quick to follow. The crew waited patiently as Usopp hiked up the gangway, ready to lunge as soon as you made footfall.

He gently set you down, and Nami was immediate to hug you first. Her hold was tight, and the little doctor wasn’t far behind, jumping to hug your leg.

“You okay—?” she asked, looking you over, but Luffy was quick to slam into you and your hugging circle.

Usopp took a pale shade as he watched Luffy knock you and Chopper to the floor, tumbling a few feet away.

“LUFFY!”

“Come on, bro!”

“Not cool!”

Luffy smiled, pulling back and Chopper was quick to hit him over the head, “hey what was that for?!”

“What? I was excited!”

“So?!”

“I’m just happy she’s back!”

Usopp was quick to hit him next, “You idiot! You could’ve hurt her,” he snapped, “she’s already tired—!”

“And scratched,” Zoro commented, holding out a hand to help you up. You didn’t immediately take it, too slow to think, but he carefully grabbed your arm to hoist you up—cautious of your minor injuries.

“Oh shit, yeah what happened?” Franky raised a brow, poking your cheek, “you look like a cat beat you up.”

You smiled, weakly pushing his finger away, “Long story.”

“Yeah, you never did tell me what happened,” Usopp deadpanned, pointing an accused finger at you.

“Yet again, long story.” you sighed.

“Wait was it actually a cat?!”

“Anyways, we’re glad you’re back,” Robin interrupted, gently placing a hand on your head, “you had us worried.”

“Yeah, sorry about that…”

“Good, you should be—“ Zoro scoffed, but Nami was quick to elbow him in the ribs.

“Don’t listen to him. And don’t apologize, we understand.” she smiled, adding rather calmly, “just don’t do it again.”

Nervously, you laughed, watching Zoro cripple to the floor in pain… Quick to say, you didn’t hesitate to agree.

“Honestly, I wondered if a sea king snuck you from below.” Robin commented, crossing her arms.

“YOHO!” Brook shuddered, “Absolutely not my dear Robin! You think so cruel.”

“Though I do say that is a rather common occurrence with pirates—“

“Ok! How about we get you inside and some food?” Nami gestured, already pushing you inside.

“I’m not really hungry—“

“Too bad, you at-least need to drink some water.” Usopp took your hand, keeping you safe as he led you to the kitchen. The door swiftly closed, and a distant shout already rang from inside.

Brook, who was left with Robin outside, seemed to enjoy the rather chaotic welcome home. It was normal here, and they didn’t think it’d ever change.

“It really wouldn’t be the same without her,” he murmured, keeping a light—but bittersweet tone.

Robin only nodded, “I think she knows that, deep down.” she looked to the window, seeing you in the kitchen as Chopper patch you up.

“It just might take some time for her to see it.”

. . .

“Yeah well whatever the idiot said, clearly worked.” Zoro grumbled, finally taking a stand. He sucked in a breath, wincing as his side stitched.

“Ugh, I think that witch broke my rib(s).”

9:00pm.

Bonus:

“The great Usopp has found his treasure!” The snipe declared, running straight at you.

You were in the Aquarium, watching the fish and tank to relax, but your peace and quiet hadn’t last long. You lover grabbed you, cozily tackling you to the couch.

A panicked sound muffled your lips, though it was too late. He pulled you to his lap, wrapping his arms around you to keep you close.

“Treasure?” you asked, looking up to him.

“Well—yeah, duh, I was looking for you.” he muttered, breezing over what you said—as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

“No, you called me your treasure.” you repeated, leaning up, gently interrogating.

That was the first time you’ve ever heard him say that, otherwise—he’d said it to you in your sleep.

“Oh—Haha, did I? That’s funny,” he muttered, looking to the fish. “Oh would you look a that, their trying to kill another.”

“Huh?” you blurted, looking to the tank, but nothing was out of the ordinary. You deadpanned, looking to him before hitting his chest, “you’re such a dork.”

“Ow, I am not.”

“Are too.”

“Am not.” he finished, stuffing your face with the blanket.

“Hey! Quth—it!”

“Admit defeat!”

“M’fine—you win.” you pushed the blanket away, and he smirked.

“Usopp the great always wins.”

“Yeah, cause he can never admit defeat.”

Usopp utterly appalled, held his chest, “Not true.”

“Is true.” you mumbled, resting your head on his chest, and that was the end of the argument. Your arms came around his shoulders and he shifted his hold.

He smiled, tucking you in with a blanket he grabbed to keep you warm. Usopp didn’t plan to sleep here, but you looked too comfy to move. His hand gently combed through your hair, and he closed his eyes to soak up the moment.

Then softly, he mumbled:

“I forget your real sometimes.”

“Hm?” you hummed, drifting off.

“Nothing.” he fixed, realizing his mistake. He held you tighter, bringing his leg between your own.

“I’m just talking to myself.” he whispered, brushing your hair back. His hand traced your features, and his eyes closed to remember the moment, cherishing it forever as he drifted off.

“Goodnight.” he mumbled, as though were soft to agree.

The night settled in, and under the fish tank’s light, he joined you in sleep.