Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Sanji takes a deep drag from his cigarette, letting the smoke swirl and twist in the air as he exhales. "I won't be shocked if he ends up despising me," he mutters under his breath.

Sinking into his bed, Sanji reclines as he gazes down at Luffy, peacefully lost in slumber beneath him. The rules might frown upon smoking on campus, but that's the least of Sanji's concerns right now.

Amidst the stillness of the room, all that occupies Sanji's thoughts is Zoro.

"Ever since that day," Sanji's voice carries a hint of frustration, "you've been distant, like an icy wind blowing between us." Memories flood his mind, a vivid image of Zoro's tear-stained face etched in his thoughts. "You stupid moron," Sanji's words slip out through clenched teeth, his heart heavy with regret, "don't you dare show me that repulsive expression ever again." The weight of his emotions presses down on him, and Sanji swears softly under his breath, lost in the grip of his consuming thoughts.

Sanji, the culinary genius of the Straw Hat crew, found himself once again grappling with the chaos that often trailed behind their daring captain, Luffy. This time, they were undercover, infiltrating a university to gather intel on rival pirate crews' higher-ups.

With a resigned sigh, Sanji muttered, "Nami just had to pair me up with him, didn't she? The guy devours food like a horde of enraged toddlers and is about as manageable." A grumbling snore echoed through the room, courtesy of Luffy, who was sprawled out in blissful slumber. "I get it, it's to keep Luffy from wandering off in search of a midnight snack," Sanji grumbled further, his annoyance palpable. Their stroke of luck was the on-campus apartments they called home – they kept Luffy from wreaking havoc in town and saved Zoro from his perpetual state of direction confusion.

Between his culinary classes, which occupied three days a week, and the rest of his time spent in intense kickboxing sessions, Sanji's days were well-defined.

He took a drag from his cigarette, the embers glowing bright for a moment before fading. Zoro, that damn swordsman, always getting himself into trouble. Sanji shook his head, a wry smile tugging at the corner of his lips. It wasn't the first time Zoro had put himself on the line for their captain, Luffy. But this time was different.

Sanji's brow furrowed as he remembered the fierce battle they had faced on the island. Luffy, as usual, charging in without a care, and Zoro right there beside him, blades flashing. They had managed to defeat the enemy, but not without a cost. Zoro had taken a hit meant for Luffy, a wound that cut deep and left him sprawled on the ground, blood staining the grass.

"Shitty swordsman," Sanji muttered under his breath, his heart pounding with a mixture of annoyance and concern. Yesterday, he had rushed to Zoro's side, the adrenaline pumping through his veins as he assessed the extent of the damage. Zoro's breaths were ragged, his face contorted in pain. Sanji's hands had trembled slightly as he tried to stop the bleeding, his fingers fumbling with bandages.

But what struck Sanji the most was the look in Zoro's eyes. A mix of determination, pain, and something else that Sanji couldn't quite put his finger on. It was as if Zoro was silently daring him to say something, to acknowledge the unspoken truth that lingered between them.

"Oi, shitty swordsman," Sanji had grumbled, his voice laced with irritation. "Don't you dare die on us. Especially since I keep feeding your sorry ass."

Zoro had chuckled weakly, a ghost of a smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, yeah, shitty cook. Don't get all sentimental on me."

Sanji had rolled his eyes, a mixture of relief and exasperation flooding through him. But beneath it all was something else, something he couldn't quite decipher. It was a feeling he hadn't expected, a twinge of something deeper than annoyance or rivalry.

As the sunset began painting the world around him in shades of warmth and beauty, Sanji took another drag from his cigarette, his thoughts swirling. While it was nice that they finally had gone to an island, they needed to let Zoro heal and get more intel on whoever was coming after them. A bond forged in battles, in shared laughter and arguments, and in moments like this, when Sanji realized that he couldn't protect Zoro from everything, no matter how much he wanted to.

"Idiot swordsman," Sanji muttered with a sigh, his eyes fixed on the horizon. "You better heal up fast, or I'll kick your ass myself."

With a determined exhale, Sanji swings his legs over the edge of the bed and pushes himself up. The cool morning air washes over him, ruffling his hair and stirring a sense of purpose within him. Breakfast is on his mind, and his culinary talents are ready to be put to good use.

The kitchenette is modest, but Sanji knows how to make the most of the space. He moves with practiced grace, grabbing ingredients and utensils with fluid motions. Eggs crack against the edge of a pan, sizzling as they hit the heat. A medley of colors and textures come together as he chops vegetables with expert precision. The rhythmic clattering of pots and pans forms a sort of culinary symphony, filling the air as the aroma of a hearty breakfast begins to envelop the room.

Just as he's about to finish cooking, the door bursts open, and Luffy strolls in with a grin that could light up the room. "Hey, Sanji! What's cooking?"

Sanji's eyebrow twitches with a mixture of annoyance and fond exasperation. "It's called breakfast, you moron. Something you should have learned by now."

Luffy's laughter rumbles, filling the small space. "Right, right! Breakfast!"

Sanji shakes his head, placing a plate piled high with food in front of Luffy. "Eat up, Captain."

Luffy's mouth is already full as he gives an enthusiastic thumbs-up, devouring the meal as if he hasn't eaten in days. Sanji watches with a bemused smirk, his irritation momentarily forgotten.

As Luffy eats, Sanji's gaze shifts to the window. The dorm next door houses Usopp and Zoro, who are likely still in dreamland. With a sigh, Sanji pushes away from the counter, his footsteps carrying him to the door. Sanji invites himself in, Usopp had made duplicate keys in case anything had happened.

A swift knock on Usopp's door earns him a groggy response and a half-hearted protest before Sanji continues to Zoro's room. He raps his knuckles against the door, and a gruff voice grumbles from within, "What?"

Sanji's tone is clipped. "Get your lazy ass up. Food's ready."

The door creaks open to reveal Zoro, shirt in hand, bandages peeking out from beneath. Sanji's eyes narrow briefly, a silent acknowledgment of the swordsman's injuries. "Don't tell me you're still struggling to put on a shirt."

Zoro grunts, a hint of irritation in his voice. "Shut up, cook. Not everyone's as spry as you."

Sanji rolls his eyes, resisting the urge to comment further. "Just get to our kitchen. Breakfast won't wait forever."

As Zoro heads towards the kitchen, Sanji lingers in the doorway, his gaze momentarily fixed on Zoro's retreating form. There's something about the way Zoro carries himself, despite the pain, that commands a reluctant respect from Sanji.

In the kitchen, Zoro's plate is already set, and he begins to eat with a quiet intensity. Sanji watches for a moment, a mixture of annoyance and grudging admiration playing on his features. As Zoro wolfs down the food, Sanji finally speaks, his voice tinged with his trademark sass. "You better eat up, shitty swordsman. We've got a day ahead of us."

Zoro's grunt is a half-hearted acknowledgement, but there's a glimmer in his eye that tells Sanji he's taken the sentiment to heart.

Sanji efficiently clears the table, his movements purposeful. "Listen up, everyone. We're not here for a vacation. Despite the classes, remember our real objective and prioritize that."

Luffy's gaze focuses for a moment, his curiosity piqued. "So, what's the plan?"

A scoff comes from Zoro, the annoyance clear in his voice. "For once, just try not to cause any trouble, Luffy. And keep your fists to yourself."

Usopp's voice chimes in, offering a pragmatic suggestion. "Luffy, seriously, just blend in during classes. No crazy antics, okay? We need to keep a low profile."

Sanji levels a look at Luffy. "You heard them, Captain. We're not here to draw attention. Let's keep our heads down and gather the information we need."

Luffy grins, a mischievous spark in his eyes. "Got it, Sanji! I'll be the best undercover student ever!"

Zoro lets out an exasperated sigh, his irritation palpable. "Just... try not to mess things up."

Usopp nods in agreement. "Yeah, and no stories about being a pirate. We don't want rumors flying around."

Sanji can't help but smirk, though he quickly hides it. "Great. As long as we're all on the same page, things might just work out."

"Nami's made it crystal clear, guys. We can't afford any slip-ups," Sanji asserts firmly. His gaze sweeps across the small group, his demeanor more serious than usual. "Usopp, engineering's your game. Keep an ear out for any talk that might give us a lead on the enemy's tech involvement."

Sanji's eyes narrow as he turns his attention to Zoro. "You, of all people, have to play babysitter," he states, a note of disbelief in his voice. "Stick to Luffy like glue in those general studies classes. And on top of that, dip your toes into the kendo and swordsmanship groups. We can't overlook any potential contacts from their crews."

A confident smirk tugs at Sanji's lips. "As for me, I'll be spreading some culinary charm to Nami's classes. Between that, I'll be honing my skills and checking out those martial arts classes. Gotta be prepared on all fronts." His tone carries a mixture of resolve and anticipation. "Everyone clear on their roles? Good. Now, get moving. And don't you dare screw this up."

Zoro's voice cuts through the room, his tone pragmatic. "We can bet they'll target Luffy first. He's an easy mark with his carefree attitude." He leans against a wall, arms crossed, his eyes scanning the others. "I think it's worth considering if we can blend in better. Sanji, why not take up some general studies too?"

Sanji shakes his head firmly. "No way. I've got my hands full as it is. Cooking for this crew takes time, and I won't let the quality of my food suffer just to blend in. Besides, I'd rather be perfecting my recipes and training."

Zoro raises an eyebrow skeptically. "Priorities, huh?"

Sanji's smirk is unapologetic. "Damn right. And someone's gotta make sure you all eat well. We're not just here for the mission, you know."

The swordsman grunts, a begrudging understanding passing between them.

Sanji's nod is confident. "Trust me, Zoro. I'll be ready. But let's not waste time dwelling on possibilities. We know our roles, and we know what's at stake."

As Sanji swiftly clears the table, Luffy's impulsive enthusiasm propels him out the door before Sanji can even react.

"There he goes again," Zoro grumbles, his irritation palpable.

Sanji's voice is a mixture of frustration and urgency. "Zoro, don't just stand there! Go after him!"

Zoro rolls his eyes, his annoyance evident in his retort. "I don't need orders from you, curly brows."

Without wasting a second, Zoro strides after Luffy, his pace quickly turning into a sprint as he navigates through the bustling campus. He scans the area, trying to catch a glimpse of Luffy's straw hat in the crowd. But the campus is a maze of students and buildings, and Luffy is nowhere in sight.

After a while, Zoro's sprint slows to a stop, his chest heaving as he catches his breath. "Where the hell am I?" he mutters, his frustration building. He scans his surroundings, disoriented by the unfamiliar territory.

His irritation grows as he fails to spot Luffy anywhere nearby. But then, his attention is drawn to something unexpected – a puddle of coffee staining the ground. Zoro's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Who the hell just spills coffee here?" he grumbles under his breath.

His eyes narrow as he follows the trail of coffee stains, a mix of annoyance and determination in his gaze. "Maybe one of these rooms has a marker," he muses aloud, his mind racing. "Luffy could've gone to Room 362. That's where our first lecture was."

With newfound resolve, Zoro pushes forward, following the trail of coffee stains and his gut feeling that Luffy might have left a clue behind.

The coffee trail proves to be short-lived, and Zoro's sense of direction doesn't fare much better. He wanders through the campus, the unfamiliar surroundings only contributing to his disorientation. With determination keeping him moving, he continues searching for any sign of Luffy's whereabouts.

Eventually, after what feels like an eternity of wrong turns and dead ends, Zoro stumbles upon the right classroom. He had passed that coffee spill multiple times. But there's a catch – the lecture is already in full swing. Zoro grimaces, realizing he's not only lost but also late.

Swallowing his annoyance, he slips into the room as inconspicuous as possible. His eyes immediately lock onto Luffy, who's seated there with an air of nonchalant disregard for the lecture. What strikes Zoro, however, is that Luffy is wearing a different shirt than the one he'd left in.

Taking the seat next to Luffy, Zoro leans over, his voice a hushed whisper. "Where's your shirt?"

Luffy glances at him with a carefree grin, dismissing the concern. "Don't sweat the small stuff, Zoro."

Zoro's brow twitches with mild irritation. "You left with a red shirt. Now you're wearing one with sunflowers. What the hell happened?"

Luffy shrugs casually. "I spilled something on it, so I borrowed this from a friend. No biggie."

Zoro's disbelief is clear in his narrowed gaze. "You expect me to believe that? Luffy, we should be the only friends you have on this island?! Who did you run into? "

Luffy's grin widens. "Believe what you want, Zoro. Just relax."

Zoro lets out an exasperated sigh, realizing that arguing with Luffy might be a futile effort. Resigned, he settles into the seat, knowing that despite the chaos and unpredictability, their mission must take precedence. And if keeping Luffy in line means enduring his eccentricities, then so be it.

The lecture eventually comes to an end, and as the students start to shuffle out, Luffy and Zoro rise from their seats. Luffy heads left while Zoro takes a right, each lost in their own worlds.

But Zoro doesn't get far before his hand shoots out and grabs the back of Luffy's collar, halting him. "Hold on, you idiot," Zoro mutters, his voice laced with frustration. "I spotted our next class while I was hunting you down."

With a begrudging nod, Luffy follows Zoro's lead, veering in the direction indicated. The two of them weave through the campus, their steps echoing determination to stay on track amidst the chaos.

Classes come and go, and by the time the day's last lecture concludes, the sun is beginning its descent. Luffy and Zoro find themselves walking back to their dorm, the weariness of the day settling in.

"Hey, Zoro," Luffy pipes up, his voice holding a hint of excitement. "I gotta meet someone real quick, so go on ahead without me."

Zoro's eyes narrow as he regards Luffy. "Seriously? You're just gonna take off?"

Luffy grins, his carefree nature shining through. "Yeah, don't worry. I'll catch up. Go get some food or something."

Zoro lets out an aggravated sigh, his irritation palpable. "Dammit, Luffy. You're unbelievable."

Luffy shrugs, already half-jogging in another direction. "See ya back at the dorm!"

"Goddamn moron," Zoro mutters under his breath, his pace picking up as he heads back to the dorm.

Zoro barges into Luffy and Sanji's shared dorm room, his presence commanding attention. He flops onto the couch with a huff, his exhaustion evident.

"Beer. Me. Cook," Zoro's words are deliberate, his tone more demanding than usual.

Sanji's eyebrow quirks up, his voice tinged with amusement and irritation. "You can't just waltz into my domain and throw orders around, Marimo. And do you want our cover blown if the Resident Advisors decide to snoop around?"

Zoro lets out a grumble, acknowledging the point but still unyielding. "Just get me something to drink."

Sanji's retort is swift, his wit as sharp as ever. "Demanding much? Fine, I'll fetch you something. But you owe me, swordsman."

Sanji's smirk deepens as he bends down, handing over a beer to Zoro. "To what do I owe that pleasure, swordsman?" he quips, the teasing evident in his tone.

Zoro's response is quick, his retort laced with mild annoyance. "Don't be weird," he mutters before taking a sip of the beer. "You're always on something."

Sanji chuckles, his laugh a mixture of mischief and amusement. "Hmph, if I was 'on something,' you'd know it," he replies with a devilish grin.

Zoro lets out a groan. "That's disgusting."

Sanji's playful jab takes a physical form as he attempts to kick Zoro, but Zoro's reflexes are sharp. He grabs Sanji's ankle, effortlessly diverting the attack and tossing it aside. "You know damn well that's not what I meant!"

Zoro smirks, his eyes narrowing playfully. "I wouldn't put it past you to experiment. You did spend some quality time on that pervert island while the rest of us were training."

Sanji's face reddens slightly, a mix of embarrassment and defensiveness evident in his expression. "Hey, that was a special case, alright? And it was for survival, not for... anything else."

Zoro chuckles, his arms still draped casually behind his head. "Sure, sure. Whatever you say."

Sanji's voice takes on a slightly irritated edge. "Don't even start with that crap. I'm not... you know, like that."

Zoro's grin widens, a teasing glint in his eye. "Oh, I believe you. I'll believe you the day you actually bring a girl home."

Sanji's jaw clenches, his frustration simmering just beneath the surface. "You're such an ass, Marimo."

Sanji's frustration boils over as he rants, "Seriously, where the hell is Luffy?"

Zoro's response is flat and matter-of-fact, "Meeting with a friend."

"Friend?" Sanji retorts, his voice laced with accusation. "Zoro, we're his only friends on this island!"

Zoro waves off Sanji's concern, his casual demeanor not quite matching the situation. "You know how he is."

"Zoro, you're a damn idiot," Sanji snaps, his worry evident. "He could be walking into danger."

Zoro's retort is equally stubborn. "If you're that worried, go find—"

Before Zoro can finish his sentence, the door bursts open and Luffy barges in, exclaiming, "I'M STARVING!"

Sanji lets out a sigh of both relief and exasperation. Zoro nods in agreement with Luffy's sentiment.

"Next time, stick with Zoro," Sanji scolds, his concern masked by irritation. "Or I might just let you go hungry."

Luffy's complaints and whining fill the air as Sanji gets to work in the kitchen, preparing a hearty lunch for the crew. The clatter of utensils and the sizzle of cooking fill the small space, an odd sort of comfort amidst the chaos.

Lunch is served, and as Luffy heads off to bed – probably for a nap after his supposed "meeting" – Zoro remains on Sanji's couch, looking more relaxed than usual. It's a rare moment of quiet, and Sanji takes a breath, appreciating the reprieve.

But as silence settles, Zoro's voice breaks it, a mock flirtation playing on his lips. "You know, Sanji, I always thought your cooking was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen."

Sanji's eyebrow twitches, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Flattery won't get you extra food, Marimo."

Zoro's grin widens, mischief dancing in his eyes. "Well, a guy can dream, can't he?"

Sanji's patience wears thin, and he takes a step towards Zoro. "Keep dreaming, asshole. You're gonna get more than you bargained for."

In the blink of an eye, their banter escalates into a scuffle. Sanji aims a swift kick at Zoro, but to his surprise, Zoro catches his leg with ease. Sanji's momentary imbalance is unexpectedly graceful, and he ends up with his leg caught on Zoro's shoulder, an unintentional ballerina pose.

Zoro bursts into laughter, his amusement echoing through the room. "Hah, so it seems that pervert island did rub off on you, Sanji. You look just like Bon Clay."

Sanji's face reddens, both from the embarrassment of the situation and his own frustration. "You—! Dammit, let go!"

Sanji regains his composure, brushing off his clothes and straightening them with a hint of irritation. "Zoro, go back to your own damn dorm."

"Why bother when I can just chill right here?" Zoro responds lazily, his eyes still closed. "Besides, I don't feel like dealing with Chopper and Usopp and their endless nerd games."

Sanji's patience wears thin, his frustration evident. "I don't care what you feel like. Get out."

Zoro offers a half-hearted excuse, his voice casual. "You told me to keep an eye on Luffy."

Sanji's irritation flares, his voice more urgent. "For the love of all that's holy, I can handle watching over him by myself!"

Sanji throws his hands up in exasperation, giving in to Zoro's stubbornness. "Fine, have it your way. There's leftovers on the stove."

With a sigh, Sanji heads to the bathroom, seeking a moment of respite under the cascading water. About an hour later, he emerges, a towel draped over his shoulders and boxers as his attire. A lit cigarette dangles from his lips, its ember glowing as he takes a drag. He walks around the familiar kitchen, only to find Zoro still sleeping soundly on the couch.

"I swear, you're impossible," Sanji groans, his irritation palpable.

Zoro cracks open one eye, his tone dripping with a sly amusement. "Oh, trying to show off more of what you learned on that pervert island?" His gaze lingers over Sanji's form, a smirk tugging at his lips.

Sanji's face flushes, a mixture of annoyance and embarrassment in his expression. "Don't look at me like that. It's disgusting." He takes another drag from his cigarette. "And for your information, I'm not into burly, gross men like you. Unlike me and my impeccable good looks." He strikes a dramatic pose for emphasis.

Zoro's retort is biting, his voice edged with sarcasm. "Oh, sure. All talk, no action. I bet you haven't had a single night with anyone since that island."

Sanji's anger ignites at the implication, and he stops his cigarette mid-air. "You've really crossed the line now." With a swift kick, he sends the couch toppling over, Zoro spilling to the ground.

The room transforms into a chaotic battlefield, punches and kicks exchanged with fervor. Sanji's leg connects with Zoro's chest, sending him flying across the room. "Get the hell out! Let me have some damn peace!" Sanji's shout reverberates through the room as he stands amid the aftermath of their clash.

Zoro opens the fridge, his hand snatching a bottle of booze before he heads out to his own room. As he walks, he winces, feeling the twinge in his chest where Sanji's kick had landed. "That's definitely gonna leave a bruise," he mutters under his breath.

Later, Zoro is sprawled out on his bed, nursing his sore chest. He can't help but feel annoyed at himself for letting the fight with Sanji escalate like that. He tentatively touches the area that's sore, wincing at the discomfort. "Stupid cook," he grumbles to himself, frustration simmering beneath the surface.

He lets out a sigh as he lies there, his thoughts drifting back to the altercation. Sanji's words, his actions – they all echo in his mind. Zoro's brow furrows as he reflects on the dynamics between them. It's not the first time they've clashed, and it won't be the last, but something about this time feels different.

"Why does he have to be so damn secretive?" Zoro's thoughts wander, his frustration mixing with curiosity. "What's he hiding, anyway?"

Zoro's mind drifts back to the two-year gap, a time of mystery for all of them. Yet, of all the Straw Hat crew, Sanji is the one who's been most guarded about his experiences during that period. Zoro finds himself wondering why – why Sanji won't talk about it, why he's so defensive.

The next day dawns, and for the most part, things seem to return to their usual rhythm. Breakfast is shared, classes attended – the semblance of normalcy masking the complexities beneath the surface.

Sanji's cooking classes lead him to the courtyard outside the dorms, where he takes a drag from his cigarette and allows his thoughts to wander. His fight with Zoro from the previous day weighs on his mind, a knot of frustration and lingering annoyance.

Amidst the chatter and casual interactions, Luffy engages in conversation with Usopp and Chopper, while Zoro seeks respite under the shade of a tree nearby. Sanji's gaze shifts from one friend to the next, his thoughts mingling with the gentle breeze that rustles through the leaves.

Just as he's lost in thought, a voice interrupts his reverie. A girl from his cooking class approaches, her smile hopeful. "Hey, Sanji... I was wondering if you'd like to go get—"

"No thanks," Sanji cuts her off abruptly, his tone flat and seemingly intentionally harsh.

The girl's smile falters, her response laced with uncertainty. "Oh, do you already have a girlfriend? I guess that's not too surprising."

Sanji's reply is curt, a mix of irritation and dismissiveness. "No, I'm in a relationship." He takes another drag of his cigarette, his gaze locked on the unfolding scene.

Zoro, previously dozing under the tree, opens his eyes and observes the interaction with mild interest. His attention is piqued by the exchange, and he watches Sanji's reactions closely.

The girl seems taken aback, her confusion palpable. "But... you said no?"

Sanji's irritation is evident, his patience worn thin. "Yeah, well, welcome to the motherfucking party. Now go away."

With a mixture of surprise and uncertainty, the girl departs, leaving Sanji alone once more. He takes one final, long drag from his cigarette before extinguishing it on his shoe's heel.

Zoro, his shock evident, is quick to react as he reaches for his sword. The unexpected turn of events has caught his attention, and his instincts are on high alert.

Sanji senses Zoro's reaction out of the corner of his eye and responds before Zoro can make any rash moves. "No need to get all riled up, you imposter boneheaded brute. I'm not an enemy. I just don't want any distractions on this damn mission." He punctuates his statement by lighting up another cigarette.

Zoro's grip on his sword loosens, but his suspicion still lingers. His thoughts race as he contemplates the situation. Sanji's actions go against the norm, against the tendencies he's displayed in the past. Zoro recalls moments when Sanji's infatuation with women led to blunders on their missions. So why now, during their first mission outside the training they've undergone?

"Hmph," Zoro grunts to himself, his mind swirling with questions. He leans back against the tree, his gaze fixed on the courtyard scene.

Sanji takes a final drag from his cigarette, his tone shifting as he addresses the situation. "Alright, well... that's enough intrigue for me. Who's up for lunch while I'm still in a half-ass decent mood?" A puff of smoke escapes his nose as he exhales.

A chorus of enthusiastic "Me!" responses fills the air from the trio of Luffy, Usopp, and Chopper who were caught up in their playful antics.

Sanji's gaze then turns to Zoro, his words carrying a note of determination. "And maybe, just maybe, my cooking will finally get rid of your endless suspicions. I'm just having a bit of an off day."

With that, the Straw Hat crew members gather their belongings and head indoors to enjoy the meal that Sanji has prepared. The aroma of delicious food wafts through the air, a tantalizing invitation that's hard to resist.

Inside, Sanji busies himself with arranging plates of food, each dish a labor of love. He hands out portions of tuna mayo onigiri and offers Zoro a bottle of booze. "Here you go, Marimo," he says, a trace of exasperation in his voice. "But go easy on the booze, alright? We don't need you stumbling around like a fool."

As the crew settles down to eat, the tensions of earlier are momentarily set aside.Amid the mealtime chatter, Sanji interjects with some important information. "Hey, by the way, Robin mentioned that on Friday night, we're gonna scout out a few locations in town and then meet up after at this bar around 7, so expect to miss morning classes on Fridays pretty regularly."

He pauses to emphasize his next point. "And for the love of everything, make sure you wear something appropriate for the location. Absolutely no clothes with the Jolly Roger on them. I'm looking at you, Luffy."

Luffy responds with a nonchalant wave of his hand, continuing to eat in his characteristic carefree manner, continuing to shove food in his mouth. .

Sanji doesn't miss a beat as he moves on to the next order of business. "Also, we're going into town tomorrow. Zoro, you're coming with me. Since I did call you a disgusting brute earlier, I could use your help to carry the provisions."

Zoro, predictably, voices his objection. "Why do I have to?"

Sanji's response is sharp, his fork gesturing in Zoro's direction. "Well, since I already pointed out your brute tendencies, I need someone strong enough to lug around a ton of stuff. Can't bring Franky – he'd stick out like a sore thumb. Plus, nobody expects us to behave well enough for a public appearance."

Zoro relents, though not without a hint of mockery. "Fine, but you better have extra booze."

Sanji's smirk is evident as he replies, "Already taken care of, Marimo."

The next day arrives, and Zoro makes the decision to skip his classes, feeling that he could use the extra rest after the tiring shopping expedition with Sanji. He finds solace in sleep, a brief respite from the events of the day before.

However, his slumber is abruptly interrupted by a persistent pounding on his door. Zoro groans in response, rolling over and burying his head further into his pillow, hoping the noise would go away on its own. The sound persists, relentless and grating.

"Oi, Marimo! Get your lazy ass up!" Sanji's voice breaks through the haze of sleep, his irritation evident in his tone.

With a heavy sigh, Zoro finally sits up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He runs a hand through his unruly hair, pushing it away from his face. He grumbles under his breath, "What the hell do you want, cook?"

"Obviously, to go shopping," Sanji retorts, his voice edged with impatience. "You should know the rules by now – no one goes anywhere alone."

Zoro lets out a frustrated groan, begrudgingly conceding to the situation. He rises from his bed and starts to put on his pants, annoyed by the interruption.

To his surprise, however, Sanji has already barged into his room, and Zoro's nonchalant demeanor quickly turns to irritation. "Whoa, dude, put some damn clothes on," Sanji exclaims, his face flushing with a mix of shock and embarrassment.

Zoro's irritation is palpable in his response. "You entered my room. I can sleep how I want."

"Yeah, well, I didn't expect you to be naked," Sanji retorts, though his eyes inadvertently trail over Zoro's figure. His gaze lingers on the scar that Mihawk had inflicted, running across Zoro's chest and leading down to his hip. Sanji can't help but notice how the scar accentuates Zoro's muscles, the contours of his body highlighted by the light.

Zoro's blunt words pull Sanji's attention away from his thoughts. "If you're gonna fuck me with your eyes, at least make me breakfast," Zoro grunts, his annoyance and humor mixing in a typical exchange between them.

Sanji's response is laden with exasperation. "If it'll get you dressed faster, sure," he mutters as he leaves the room, heading to the kitchen.

In the kitchen, the sound of sizzling fills the air as Sanji skillfully prepares scrambled eggs and bacon. The rhythmic dance of the ingredients in the pan creates a sense of comfort, a familiar melody in the crew's daily routine. As the aroma of food wafts through the air, Zoro stumbles into the kitchen, hastily zipping up his pants as he enters.

"Gross, dude, do that shit in there," Sanji grumbles, his frustration evident as he haphazardly piles the food into a bowl. "Since you want to act like that, go ahead and eat like a pig too." Sanji serves Zoro's portion without utensils, his irritation evident.

Zoro's response is a mischievous grin. "I'm sure you'd love to see me eat all sloppy, with shit all over my face." He digs into the food with gusto, devouring it without restraint.

Sanji's brow furrows in confusion. "The hell does that mean?"

Zoro smirks, his tone dripping with innuendo. "What? You didn't see enough of that during your time on your perv island?" He slurps a greasy piece of bacon into his mouth with a playful flair, as if challenging Sanji's reaction.

Sanji's cheeks turn slightly pink, caught between a mixture of embarrassment and uncertainty. He looks away, his gaze averted. "That's gross, dude. Here," he retorts, throwing a fork onto the table. Without another word, he abruptly leaves the kitchen and heads to the bathroom.

Zoro's amused chuckle follows him. "Oh, did I get you all hot?"

Sanji's voice carries back a mix of frustration and denial. "Shut up! You did not! I hate you!"

Sanji splashes cold water onto his face, the sensation providing a brief respite from the emotional turmoil that's stirred within him. As he gazes at his flushed reflection in the mirror, a few tears escape, evidence of the internal struggle he's facing. His frustration culminates in a slammed countertop. "That stupid ass," he silently berates himself. "Why the hell is he doing all this to me after everything?"

He splashes his face once more, determined to rid himself of any trace of his emotional outburst. He dries his face and takes a deep breath, steadying himself.

Returning to the living area, Sanji's avoidance of eye contact is palpable. "Go wash your face before we head out, alright?" he instructs, his tone masking his inner turmoil. "I'm going to smoke. I'll wait for you outside."

Zoro complies, heading to the bathroom to wash his face. His own thoughts churn as he stands in front of the mirror. "Fucking cook," he mutters, a mix of frustration and understanding in his voice. "He knows how we work. Getting feelings involved just gets everyone hurt."

Their emotions, though unspoken, underscore the complexity of their relationship. They had been here for almost a year, gathering intel and generally, just trying to have a back-up plan if they needed to split again. They had been on and off with this for quite some time. It made the rest of the crew nervous at first because Zoro had been attacked about a rumor that Sanji and Zoro had been dating, but in the end, Sanji and Zoro have chosen to not try to date; this being a one sided endeavor on Zoro’s part.

Zoro steps out of the dorm, his eyes falling upon Sanji leaning against the railing. Sanji's gaze shifts to the side, locking onto Zoro's presence. "You ready?" he asks, a hint of uncertainty in his voice.

Zoro's eyes linger on Sanji for a moment, his thoughts perhaps wandering into a realm he knows he shouldn't explore. A smirk plays at the corner of his lips as he assesses Sanji's appearance. However, a sense of determination and responsibility grounds him. They have tasks to accomplish today, and indulging in fleeting desires won't serve their purpose.

"Yeah, yeah," Zoro responds, a sigh escaping his lips. "Let's go."

As they begin walking together, Sanji leading the way, their hands brush against each other. Zoro's expression shifts to one of concern, his gaze flickering toward Sanji. But Sanji remains unfazed, continuing their stride without missing a beat. Zoro's internal conflict is evident as he briefly shrugs, reconciling his emotions before following a couple of paces behind.

Zoro sulks in silence, his thoughts meandering into lewd territories as he contemplates Sanji. A deep sigh escapes his lips, his internal struggle evident.

"What?" Sanji's voice cuts through his reverie, tinged with annoyance.

Zoro quickly snaps out of his thoughts. "Nothing..." he mumbles, attempting to brush it off.

"Liar," Sanji retorts, his frustration palpable.

Zoro hesitates for a moment before speaking up, his tone serious. "What? I thought we agreed no feelings anymore."

Sanji's response is quick and direct. "That was your condition, not mine."

Zoro counters with a suggestive tone. "Well, what if I changed my mind?"

Sanji's reaction is immediate. He whirls around, his foot landing on Zoro's chest, a gesture that's ready to escalate. "You say that all the time and you never commit. What the fuck? Figure it out, then toy with me," Sanji seethes, his anger simmering just below the surface.

With that, Sanji turns away, his frustration evident in his demeanor. "If you don't want to get lost, I suggest you follow closer," he adds with a sigh, a plume of smoke escaping his lips as he exhales.

The crew's shopping spree concludes with minimal words exchanged between Zoro and Sanji. They return with their haul – boxes and bags filled with supplies and provisions for their upcoming adventures. Zoro bears the brunt of the physical load, juggling two boxes and three bags, his muscles flexing as he effortlessly manages the weight. Sanji, though carrying a lighter load, walks with a slight hint of exhaustion, his complaints about the journey punctuated with a mix of grumbles and sighs.

With a skillful maneuver, Sanji kicks open the door, clearly relieved to be back in the familiar surroundings of their dorm. He sets his load down with an exasperated groan, his voice carrying a touch of dramatic flair. "Man, that walk was a nightmare, and some of the stuff I wanted was out of stock. Figures."

Zoro follows suit, his more substantial load making a thud as he places it down. His response is laced with his characteristic nonchalance. "Well, you do have a tendency to want the rarest and most expensive stuff."

Sanji shoots Zoro a pointed look, a playful grin tugging at the corner of his lips. "Oh, so you're saying I have high standards, Marimo?"

Zoro smirks, the exchange becoming a familiar dance. "I'm just saying, you could probably do with a bit more lifting yourself."

Sanji's eyes narrow, the playful teasing escalating as he takes a step closer to Zoro. "Oh really? Are you suggesting something, swordsman?"

Zoro's response is laden with innuendo. "Oh, I don't know, cook. I thought I was already lifting quite a bit," he retorts, his eyes locking onto Sanji's for a brief moment, a flicker of flirtation dancing between them.

Sanji rolls his eyes, a faint blush rising to his cheeks. "Keep dreaming, swordsman. You might need more than muscles to impress me," he replies, turning his attention to the kitchen. Sanji's response is a dismissive wave. "Save the compliments for the food, Marimo. You might get something edible out of it."

"Who knows, you could poison me?" Zoro teases, his tone carrying a playful edge. "Would you feel an ounce of remorse?"

Sanji chuckles, his culinary prowess on full display as he deftly handles the knife and ingredients. "Not one damn bit, especially after what happened last time."

Zoro raises an eyebrow in mock surprise. "Oh, so you do remember."

Sanji's grin widens. "Oh, how could I forget? Your face turned redder than a lobster."

As Sanji continues chopping, Zoro leans against the counter, watching him with an amused glint in his eye. "Besides, with Luffy around, I don't think we'll be doing much."

Zoro's tone turns more suggestive, his smirk deepening. "I have my methods."

Sanji arches an eyebrow, his expression challenging. "And what methods would those be, swordsman?"

Zoro's gaze locks onto Sanji's, the air between them charged with tension and unspoken desires. "I'm not suggesting bushes or being a cynical bastard," he retorts, his tone dipping into flirtatious territory. "But I wouldn't mind finding a more... comfortable setting."

Sanji's knife pauses for a moment, his gaze meeting Zoro's with a mix of surprise and intrigue. A playful grin tugs at the corner of his lips. "Oh really? And what kind of setting are we talking about?"

"Somewhere where we can enjoy the finer things in life – good food, good company, and a bit of privacy." Zoro's response is swift, his words carrying a subtle intensity. "Maybe I want the cook to serve me something special tonight."

Sanji's lips curl into a sly smile, a challenge in his eyes. "Oh, you mean like a plate of rejection? I think I can manage that."

Zoro's smile remains, his gaze fixed on Sanji. "You love to hate me, don't you?"

Sanji's response is laced with a mix of irritation and bitterness, his attention focused on stirring rice into a pot. "I hope you drop dead from your own karma for what you have put me through."

Zoro lets out a resigned sigh. "Oh, come on, I'm not that bad-"

Sanji's interruption is swift and pointed. "We're not doing it outside or inside. I'm not interested in patching things up." He tosses in some seasonings and cracks eggs into a pan, the sound of sizzling filling the air as he prepares fried rice.

Zoro's frustration is evident as he huffs, his voice tinged with a mix of exasperation and resignation. "So we're done-done, this time?"

"That's what I said," Sanji replies, his tone unyielding.

Zoro's flirtatious side makes a reappearance as he playfully remarks, "You won't even give me a parting gift?"

Sanji's response is direct and to the point, his demeanor leaving no room for misinterpretation. "Your gift is your life and a full stomach. Anything else, I'll play god."

As they sit down to eat, their interaction shifts once again. The tension that once simmered between them is now replaced with a guarded distance. They eat the fried rice in silence, each bite a reminder of the complexity of their relationship.

"For what it is worth, the food is good."

Zoro's compliment doesn't go unnoticed, and Sanji's response is swift, his ego shining through his words. "For what it's worth, I don't care. I made it good because I'm amazing."

They continue eating in relative silence, the clinks of utensils against plates punctuating the air.
Zoro lets out a sigh and moves to start washing the dishes, a gesture of goodwill and an attempt to mend the tense atmosphere.

"Don't," Sanji's voice cuts through, firm and unwavering, as he steps in to take over the task.

Zoro's response is soft, laced with a hint of resignation. "I'm just trying to be a good guest."

Sanji's retort carries a mixture of annoyance and frustration. "A good guest is a gone guest." He points at the door with a definitive gesture, his words sharp and final.

In this exchange, their emotions lay bare – Sanji's anger and Zoro's hurt. Sanji carefully sets aside plates in the fridge, each one labeled for Usopp, Chopper, and Luffy. The act is a mix of practicality and a small gesture of care, despite the tension that hangs in the air. With the task completed, he retreats to his room, seeking solitude and a moment to collect his thoughts.

Inside his room, he lets out a heavy sigh, frustration and conflicting emotions swirling within him. He pulls out a cigarette, lighting it up and taking a deep drag, the smoke swirling around him like a shroud of introspection.

The gentle embrace of sleep held Sanji in its comforting arms until a sudden burst of exuberance shattered the tranquility. Luffy's unmistakable voice echoed through the dorm, boisterous and full of energy.

"I'm home!" Luffy's shout cut through the air like a ray of sunshine, jolting Sanji from his slumber.

Sanji rolled over in bed, groaning softly as he buried his face into his pillow. A well-practiced tactic, as he tried to feign sleep in hopes that Luffy wouldn't ask him for more food. Luffy's appetite was as boundless as the sea they sailed on, and Sanji's culinary skills were a constant source of replenishment for the captain's bottomless stomach.

The sounds of footsteps drew nearer, and Sanji's heart skipped a beat. He could almost sense Luffy's mischievous grin through the door, a look that often accompanied Luffy's attempts to wheedle more treats from him. The door creaked open, a sliver of light slicing through the room, and Sanji held his breath, his eyelids fluttering as he continued to feign sleep.

"Sanji? You awake?" Luffy's voice was softer now, tinged with curiosity.

Sanji's pulse quickened, torn between maintaining his ruse and giving in to the inevitable. But then, with a soft chuckle, Luffy's presence retreated, the door closing once more, and the dorm was soon as quiet as the dead of night.

The blaring sound of Sanji's phone alarm pierced through the early morning stillness, and he groaned, feeling the weight of the restless night he had endured. Tossing aside the covers, he sat up on the edge of his bed, running a hand through his disheveled hair. His thoughts had been a tumultuous mix of frustration and longing, as he wrestled with the tangle of emotions that had arisen from his recent interactions with Zoro.

As the morning sunlight filtered through the window, Sanji resolved to find a way to address the situation. He knew that Zoro wasn't the type to engage in lengthy conversations about feelings, but perhaps they could find a moment of solitude later to at least acknowledge the underlying tension between them.

After a quick shower and a change of clothes, Sanji joined the rest of the crew at their designated rendezvous point in town – a bustling fountain that served as a familiar meeting spot. His companion for the day was Usopp, and they strolled around the fountain as they engaged in conversation.

"So, how are your studies going?" Sanji asked, offering a genuine smile as he glanced at Usopp.

Usopp's eyes lit up, and he launched into an animated account of his recent academic pursuits. He talked about his engineering courses, the challenges he faced, and the small triumphs he celebrated. Sanji listened attentively, nodding and interjecting with encouraging remarks.

As Usopp paused to take a breath, Sanji leaned against the fountain's edge. "Sounds like you're really putting in the effort. I'm sure Kaya would be proud of you."

Usopp's smile widened, and he began sharing stories about Kaya – his girlfriend – with a mixture of affection and enthusiasm. Sanji's role shifted from being a listener to an engaged participant, offering feedback and asking questions that showed he genuinely cared about Usopp's life outside of their adventures.

As the day unfolded, Sanji couldn't help but hope that he could find a similar moment of understanding with Zoro – a chance to bridge the gap that had formed between them. While their paths were often marked by rivalry and bickering, the unspoken emotions that lingered beneath the surface were a reminder that their relationship.

The next point, was meeting Robin and the others to the bar. Robin had sent a live location to the group chat, Sanji and Usopp headed inside. Behind them was a guy with some strange bear. The crew had gathered at a lively bar, the air filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. As Sanji entered, his eyes immediately landed on Zoro, who was already seated inside.

Without a word, Sanji grabbed Zoro's arm and guided him towards the exit. The cool evening air provided a welcomed contrast to the warmth of the bar. As they stepped outside, the chilly breeze cut through the air, carrying with it a hint of tension that mirrored the emotions swirling between them. Zoro's comment about the unfamiliar man was met with an unexpected outburst from Sanji.

"Okay? What's suspicious is your coldness?!" Sanji's voice rang out, charged with frustration and hurt.

Zoro's gaze narrowed, his expression growing defensive. "What are you talking about?"

Sanji's hands clenched into fists, the cigarette in his hand trembling slightly. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his emotions. "You know damn well what I'm talking about. You're always distant, always so damn secretive. We're supposed to be a crew, a family, but you act like I'm just... just someone you use when you're in the mood."

Zoro's jaw tightened, his silence a stark contrast to Sanji's passionate words.

"I'm tired of it, Zoro," Sanji continued, his voice softer now but no less intense. "I want something real. I want a relationship where you're actually kind to me, where we can be together without you acting like it's some dirty secret."

Zoro's gaze flickered away, his frustration palpable. "I never signed up for all this emotional crap, Sanji. We have a mission, and that's what we should focus on."

Sanji's expression wavered between anger and hurt. "So, what? You're willing to be open about everything else, but when it comes to us, you shut me out?"

Zoro's gaze met Sanji's again, a mix of annoyance and resignation in his eyes. "I never said that. Look, I'm not one for grand displays or public affection. You know that."

Sanji's shoulders slumped, a mixture of disappointment and understanding washing over him. "I get it, Zoro. But damn it, can't you at least hold my hand when we're around the crew? Is that too much to ask for?"

Zoro let out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through his hair. "Fine. I'll do it, okay? But don't expect me to start singing love songs or some shit."

Sanji's lips twitched into a small smile, a mix of relief and affection softening his features. "I'm not asking for a serenade, just... something real."

Zoro rolled his eyes, but there was a hint of a smirk on his lips. "Yeah, yeah. Let's just get this over with."

They headed back inside, moving to a more secluded corner of the bar where the dim lighting offered a semblance of privacy. Sanji took a moment to light another cigarette, his fingers trembling slightly as he looked at Zoro.

Zoro let out a resigned sigh, his irritation still evident but his willingness to comply clear. He reached out, taking Sanji's hand in his own, their fingers intertwining. It was a small gesture, one that might have gone unnoticed by others in the bustling bar, but for Sanji, it was a step towards something more meaningful.

Sanji's whispered words sent a shiver down Zoro's spine as he focused his attention on the table that Luffy's 'friend' was pointing at. His eyes narrowed in suspicion, his senses on high alert.

"Yeah, I see it... Looks like Luffy's 'friend'," Zoro replied quietly, his voice tinged with caution.

Sanji's touch suddenly swept over Zoro's chest, and Zoro's body tensed instinctively. He glanced down, his eyes locking onto their joined hands. A flush of embarrassment colored his cheeks as he realized their situation.

"They're pointing over here. Act cool," Sanji instructed, but his next move caught Zoro off guard.

Zoro's eyes widened as Sanji's teasing touch turned more affectionate. He opened his mouth to protest, but Sanji's words kept coming, making his heart race and his face grow hotter.

"THAT'S YOU PLAYING IT COOL," Zoro blurted out, raising his hands slightly in a gesture of exasperation. His attempt to break away from the situation only seemed to make it worse as he accidentally released Sanji's hand and turned even redder.

"Come onnnn, don't hide me from the world, Zoro," Sanji's teasing voice continued, punctuated by a playful bite to Zoro's cheek. Zoro's gaze flickered to Luffy's 'friend' before he forced himself to focus back on Sanji.

"Kiss me like you do at night," Sanji teased further, and Zoro's eyes widened again. He sputtered, his drink threatening to come out of his mouth as he choked on the surprise.

"Shit, he's looking over here," Sanji noted, and Zoro's eyes darted back to the table before he quickly wiped his mouth.

"Yeah, because you're being a freak. If it wasn't for us being in a bar, I would have kicked your ass already," Zoro grumbled, his embarrassment turning into frustration.

"Funny, because after a few drinks, you usually use it--" Sanji's words were cut off by Zoro's spit-take, causing Zoro to cough and sputter.

Sanji let out a hearty laugh, and Zoro's face turned an even deeper shade of red. "You're insufferable," Zoro muttered, his irritation only adding to his mortification.

"Luffy's on the move," Zoro's voice cut through their playful banter, immediately shifting the atmosphere to one of alertness. "We should follow suit."

Sanji's groan was a mix of frustration and resignation as he fell into step behind Zoro, their steps synchronized as they approached the table. Sanji leaned casually against the wall, his demeanor relaxed, but his senses sharp. On the other hand, Zoro's body was taut with readiness, his hand resting on his sword as he surveyed the scene.

"Fuck, he can't possibly be thinking that," Sanji muttered under his breath, his eyes narrowing at Luffy's actions. Quick to react, he swooped in, placing his hand on top of Zoro's to block any hasty movement.

"Hey, you idiot! This is a public place!" Sanji's voice rose, carrying a mixture of concern and exasperation. In the blink of an eye, his lips pressed against Zoro's cheek in a fleeting peck, catching the swordsman off guard. Zoro's fists clenched at the unexpected action, his initial response being sheer outrage.

However, Sanji's intention was clear – diverting Zoro's attention from drawing his sword and potentially causing a scene. The kiss did its job, and Zoro's rage shifted toward the cook, his fists raised in a threatening stance.

As they moved towards the booth where Chopper sat between them, trying to mediate the situation, the tension between Sanji and Zoro only escalated. Their voices grew louder, and their words carried a mix of irritation and confusion.

"You kissed me, you bastard! I'm gonna kill you!" Zoro's voice was low and menacing, his eyes narrowing at Sanji.

"Oh, come on, don't act like you didn't like it," Sanji shot back, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. He wasn't about to back down from his teasing.

"Like hell I did! Don't mess around with me like that!" Zoro's fists were still raised, his anger simmering.

Sanji's expression shifted slightly, a hurt look fleeting across his features as he looked out to where Luffy was leaning against the wall, clearly unwell. The weight of their argument seemed to diminish in the face of their captain's situation.

"Enough, you two!" Chopper's voice rang out, exasperation evident in his tone. "Can we focus on Luffy? He doesn't look so good."

Sanji and Zoro exchanged a final glare before their attention shifted to Luffy, the reality of the situation pushing their personal issues aside, if only temporarily.

Sanji's shock at seeing Law directing Luffy towards the bathroom was quickly replaced by a surge of protective anger. "Like hell you will! You won't touch a hair on his head!" His voice was laced with a fierce determination as he moved to leap over the table, his intent clear. However, Zoro's swift action prevented him from reaching Luffy.

"Hey, simmer down, shit-cook," Zoro's firm grip on the table held Sanji back, his eyes fixed on the unfolding situation.

"Let me go! What if he does something to Luffy?" Sanji's voice was almost desperate, his gaze locking onto Zoro's as he struggled against the swordsman's restraint.

"You really think our captain is going to let something happen to himself?" Zoro's words were both a reassurance and a challenge, his grip unwavering as he maintained his hold on Sanji. The intensity of their eye contact communicated more than words could capture.

The exchange was a charged one, emotions running high as their concerns for their captain collided with their differences. Zoro's attempt to rein in Sanji culminated in a forceful yet calculated maneuver – flipping the table, the sudden motion effectively deterring Sanji's escape. The chaos that followed was a mixture of surprise and amusement, Nami's approach being thwarted by Usopp's timely intervention, and the crew's laughter filling the room.

As the laughter reverberated around them, Sanji's anger and worry began to subside, replaced by a mixture of embarrassment and annoyance. He glared at Zoro, a mixture of defeat and irritation clear in his gaze. "You just love to make a spectacle, don't you, Marimo?"

Zoro shrugged nonchalantly, a half-smirk playing at the corner of his lips. "Hey, if you're gonna make a scene, might as well do it with style."

Sanji rolled his eyes, begrudgingly amused despite himself. "You're insufferable."

"Yeah, well, you're not exactly a walk in the park either," Zoro retorted, a playful glint in his eyes.

As Luffy left with a visibly downcast expression, the mood among the crew shifted. Sanji's perceptive eye caught the change, and he turned to Zoro. "Hey, let's call it. Captain's not looking too hot." Sanji nodded towards Luffy, concern evident in his tone. "Zoro and I can carry him home, don't worry." Sanji's wink was met with Zoro's annoyed glare, which Sanji seemed to relish.

Nami, fueled by her drunken state, managed to pay the tab with a certain level of clumsiness. The rest of the crew remained behind, seemingly finding solace in each other's company. Meanwhile, Zoro and Sanji positioned themselves on either side of Luffy, hoisting him up with their arms wrapped around his shoulders.

As they made their way back to campus, the tension between Zoro and Sanji began to bubble up again, albeit in a more subdued manner. Zoro's brow furrowed as he glanced at Sanji. "Why did you volunteer us for this, shit-cook?"

Sanji's lips curled into a smug grin. "Oh, come on, Marimo. It's been a while since we've had any... alone time. I figured this would give us a chance." His voice was a teasing purr, though Zoro seemed unamused.

"Are you an idiot? Don't say that in front of Luffy!" Zoro's words were a harsh whisper, his eyes flicking towards their unconscious captain.

Sanji chuckled lightly, his tone a mixture of amusement and mock innocence. "Of course not, Roronoa. I have more tact than that."

"Could've fooled me," Zoro muttered under his breath.

"I wasn't planning on airing our sins directly," Sanji continued, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Just dropping hints here and there."

Zoro sighed, the exasperation evident in his voice. "You're impossible, you know that?"

Sanji's laughter was like a melody, carrying a hint of flirtation. "You love it."

They reached Luffy's dorm room, and Sanji skillfully used his leg to swing the door open. "Now all we gotta do is throw him onto the bed, and we should have a good three hours to ourselves," Sanji suggested with a sly grin.

They moved Luffy to his bed, his body occupying both the mattress and floor. With the door closed, they were finally alone. Sanji gestured towards his own room, where he turned on some music that had a certain rhythmic allure to it, something he had picked up from Momoiro Island.

"This music's kinda gay," Zoro commented in his typically blunt manner, stretching out on the bed.

Sanji rolled his eyes playfully. "Yeah, because we're gay, idiot."

Zoro's next words came out before he could fully process them. "You might be, but I'm not." As the realization of what he had just said hit him, a momentary awkwardness settled between them. "Besides, I'm more of the pitcher type," he added, his cheeks slightly reddening as he tried to play it off with a casual tone.

Sanji raised an eyebrow, a mischievous grin curving his lips. "Oh, really? Well then, shut up and let me see your 'pitching' skills," he quipped, his voice low and suggestive. He took a draw from his cigarette.

Zoro patted his lap with an air of nonchalance, his attempt at dismissing the moment. "Come on up, then."

Sanji let out a playful huff, leaning against the doorframe. "If you want me, you're gonna have to convince me," he teased, his tone a mixture of challenge and invitation. "Sweet talk your way into my good graces."

As Zoro spoke, he noticed Sanji's eyes darken, his pupils dilating slightly. Sanji’s lips parted, and he licked them slowly, as if savoring the image of Zoro before him, who had been taking off his shirt. "Fuck," he whispered, running his fingers through his hair. "You're making it difficult for me to say no."

Without waiting for another word, Zoro moved forward, grasping Sanji by the waist and pulling him close. Their bodies pressed together, and Zoro felt the heat of Sanji's skin beneath his own.

Zoro ran his hands up and down Sanji's back, massaging the tight muscles. "You feel so good," he murmured, nuzzling against his neck. "I can't wait to see what else you have hidden under these clothes."

Sanji shivered in response, his eyes narrowing with desire. "If you keep talking like that, I won't be able to resist anymore," he warned, his voice low and rough.

Zoro trailed kisses along Sanji' s jawline, nibbling lightly on his earlobe as he made his way down his neck. He could feel Sanji shuddering beneath him, his breath quickening with anticipation. Zoro grinned wickedly, continuing his path downwards. He licked across Sanji' s chest, savoring the taste of his skin. He knew that Sanji was already hard, and he couldn't wait to see how far he could push him.

He dipped his head lower, taking one of Sanji' s nipples into his mouth. Sanji gasped loudly, arching up against Zoro in response. Zoro smirked, knowing that he had found a sensitive spot. He continued to tease and torment Sanji, making him squirm beneath him. It wasn't until they were both on the edge of orgasm that Zoro finally took pity on him.

Zoro grinned wickedly, sliding his hand between Sanji's legs. He found the edge of his boxers and tugged them down, revealing the thick length of his cock. Sanji groaned loudly, his hips bucking as Zoro stroked him gently.

"You're so fucking hot," Zoro whispered, leaning forward to kiss Sanji's neck. "I want to taste every inch of you."

He trailed kisses along Sanji's jawline, his tongue darting out to trace the curve of his earlobe. Sanji shuddered in response, his hands clutching at Zoro's shoulders.

When they reached the bed, Zoro pushed Sanji down onto the mattress, following him closely. He spent several minutes exploring every inch of Sanji's body with his mouth and his hands, making sure he was fully aroused before he even considered touching his ass.

Finally, when Sanji was squirming with need, Zoro slid a finger inside him, gently preparing him for what was to come. Sanji moaned loudly, his hips bucking as Zoro added another finger.

"God, you feel so good," he murmured, nuzzling Sanji's neck. "I can't wait to taste you."

He trailed kisses along Sanji's jawline, his tongue darting out to trace the curve of his earlobe. Sanji shuddered in response, his hands clutching at Zoro's shoulders.

Finally, Zoro pulled back, looking into Sanji's eyes. "Are you ready?" he asked, his voice husky with desire.

He settled between Sanji' s legs as he pushed inside. Sanji moaned loudly, wrapping his arms around Zoro' s neck. They moved together in perfect synchronicity, their bodies sliding against each other in a frantic dance of desire.

Sanji nodded, biting his lip nervously. “Just go slow, okay?" he replied, his cheeks flushing.
Zoro grinned wickedly, settling between Sanji's legs. He took his time, exploring every inch of Sanji's body with his mouth and his hands. Sanji arched into his touch, moaning loudly as Zoro hit all of his most sensitive spots. Zoro could feel Sanji tightening around him, his muscles clenching in response. He grinned wickedly, pushing into him harder and faster, knowing that they were both close to the edge.

Zoro could feel Sanji tightening around him, his muscles clenching in response. He grinned wickedly, pushing into him harder and faster, knowing that they were both close to the edge. They came together in a fierce burst of passion, their bodies shuddering in unison. Zoro collapsed onto Sanji, burying his face against his shoulder as he tried to catch his breath.

Sanji laughed softly, running his fingers through Zoro' s hair." That was amazing," he whispered, kissing Zoro lightly on the lips."I don't know how you always manage to make me feel so good."

Zoro smirked, feeling a sense of pride at the words."It's all part of my charm," he replied, nuzzling against Sanji' s neck. "Now, let's take a nap before we have to go back to work."

They woke up tangled together, the morning sun casting a warm glow. Zoro smirked, tracing his fingers along Sanji's bare skin.

"Feeling a bit sore, are we?" he teased, his voice dripping with satisfaction.

Sanji blushed but grinned. "You know damn well why," he whispered, pulling Zoro closer for another passionate kiss. "But it was worth every moment."

Sanji slid out of bed, his pants hugging his hips snugly as he considered the day ahead. "Well, I need to make breakfast so that Luffy doesn't kill me. Try to think of stuff you want to do today."

Zoro, still feeling a bit drowsy, smirked as he pulled Sanji close. "I can think of something..." He playfully bit Sanji's thigh, making him gasp.

Sanji's face flushed, but he remained resolute. "We've got to clean up Luffy's mess from yesterday, and ourselves," he said, his voice husky.

Zoro chuckled, pulling Sanji back into bed, his arms wrapping around him possessively. "Ah, where he threw up on that guy," he mused, nuzzling Sanji's neck.

"Yeah," Sanji agreed, exhaling a stream of smoke from the cigarette he'd just lit. He leaned in to kiss Zoro passionately. "We have dinner-feast plans on the Sunny later today, so maybe I'll make Luffy invite him to make up for it. Then we can have some alone time tonight at the docks."

Zoro sighed as he stepped under the hot water, his muscles tensing in response. He had been thinking about last night, reliving the moment when they had both come together in a fierce burst of passion.

He could still feel Sanji's lips on his skin, his hands clutching at him tightly as they moved together. It was a feeling that he never wanted to end, and he knew that he would do anything to keep it going.

But as much as he loved their sex life, there were other things that mattered too. Like the way Sanji always made sure that everyone had enough to eat, or how he always took the time to listen when someone needed to talk.

Zoro closed his eyes, letting the water pound against his back. He couldn't imagine going through life without Sanji by his side, and he knew that he would do whatever it took to make sure that they stayed together. The steam-filled bathroom provided a sense of intimacy as their hands explored each other's wet skin. Sanji's fingers traced along the contours of Zoro's muscular chest, eliciting a shiver from the swordsman.

"You always know how to make me feel good," Sanji murmured, his lips brushing against Zoro's neck.

"Hey," he said softly, his eyes scanning over Zoro's body. "I have to make breakfast for Luffy..." Sanji reluctantly pulled away. "As much as I'd love to stay in here all day, I’ve got hungry pirates to feed."

He knew that they couldn't afford to let their personal lives interfere with their work.
But as he started to reach for his clothes, Sanji stopped him, pulling him closer. "Wait," he whispered, pressing his lips against Zoro's neck. "One more time won't hurt. Besides, I’m one of those pirates…"

Zoro hesitated for a moment, but then he gave in, leaning back against the tiles as Sanji took him in his mouth. It was quick and dirty, but it was exactly what they both needed to start the day. Zoro responded with a low growl, his own hands finding their way to Sanji's waist. The two of them shared passionate kisses, the water acting as a sensual backdrop to their intimate connection.

When they were finished, they reluctantly stepped apart, both of them panting for air. Zoro couldn't help but grin at the look on Sanji's face, knowing that they were both still horny despite having just had sex.

"Goddammit," Sanji muttered. Sanji stepped out of the shower, grabbing a towel as he went, looking at him with a small smile on his face.

Zoro sighed, giving Sanji a playful slap on the rear. "Fine, but we're continuing this later."

Sanji chuckled, wrapping a towel around his neck and putting on pants, his body still glistening with moisture. "Promise."

Sanji had gone ahead without him, Zoro sat in the shower attempting to enjoy the warmth, but the water went cold. Zoro groans, gets dressed, and stumbles out.

Sanji moved about the kitchen with practiced ease, the scent of sizzling bacon filling the air. A towel hung loosely around his neck, his bare chest glistening with a light sheen of sweat from the shower. Luffy, still half-asleep, rested his head on the dining table, his mouth agape, and snores escaping from time to time.

Zoro, leaning in closer to Sanji, attempted to steal a kiss, his intentions clear. However, Sanji, with a sly grin, gently pushed him away and nodded towards Luffy.

Zoro couldn't hide his irritation but reluctantly refrained from pursuing the kiss further. He took a seat at the table, arms crossed, clearly annoyed.

Sanji, still wearing his mischievous smile, addressed Luffy, "Hey, Captain, you should invite that friend of yours to the cookout tonight."

Luffy raised his head, a puzzled expression on his face. "Law? Why?"

Sanji's eyebrows raised, and he chuckled softly. "Well, you did basically throw up on him."

Luffy's eyes widened in realization. "I threw up on him!?"

Zoro couldn't help but smirk, finding the situation rather amusing. "Almost."

Luffy quickly pulled out his phone, pouting slightly as he prepared to send Law a message. "I'll send him a text, but I'm saying that you're making me, Sanji."

Sanji chuckled at Luffy's dramatic protest and continued to clear the plates from the table. He shot a sly look in Zoro's direction, making his intentions clear. "Fine by me, but we never leave a guest unsatisfied."

Zoro rolled his eyes at Sanji's innuendo-laden comment, but a faint smirk played on his lips.

Sanji arched an eyebrow at Luffy, a hint of annoyance in his expression. "Luffy, do you plan on being out all day?"

Zoro, observing the exchange, also raised an eyebrow in curiosity. Luffy answered, "Yeah, I'm going to the Sunny for most of the day. I want to hang out with Franky and Usopp."

Sanji nodded in acknowledgment. "Alright, well, I've got some stuff to do," he said, glancing meaningfully at Zoro. "I need to make preparations for the feast."

Luffy grinned in response. "Okay, you better be ready for tonight!"

Sanji sighed, his annoyance evident. "I only need two hours, and it's at 5 PM. I have plenty of time, but I would like to get a short nap in."

Luffy looked puzzled. "Nap? You didn't sleep well?"

"Just tired," Sanji replied with a weary sigh, not elaborating further on his restless night.

"Okay, well, Franky's gonna pick me and Usopp up, so I'm heading out," Luffy declared, sounding determined.”Zoro, you coming?”

Zoro, seemingly annoyed, replied, "Nah, I'm gonna help the cook. He has a lot of stuff to haul up to the Sunny later."

Luffy, in his usual exuberance, exclaimed, "Okay, well, I'm gonna go have fun doing work!" And with that, he dashed out of the dorm like a speeding bullet.

Sanji sighed and reached for a cigarette, but Zoro stopped him. "You wanted to sleep?" Zoro questioned.

Sanji clarified, "Sleep. Physically sleep. It's going to be a long day, and I need rest."

Without further ado, Zoro grabbed Sanji's arm and guided him to the bedroom. He pushed Sanji onto the bed, and despite Sanji's initial confusion and a hint of fear in his expression, Zoro cupped his face gently. "Come on," Zoro said softly, then he laid down next to Sanji, pulling him close. "Don't look at me like that." He held Sanji close to his chest.

Sanji, flustered, reminded, "I told you that we were going to tonight..."

Zoro, with a hint of determination in his voice, replied, "We are. So shut your mouth like a good cook and go to sleep on me."
As Zoro watched Sanji sleep peacefully, he couldn't help but feel a mixture of emotions. He brushed a strand of hair away from Sanji's face and smiled to himself, admiring the cook's serene expression. But underneath that smile, there was a weight on Zoro's heart. He knew that their romantic involvement was becoming increasingly complicated, especially in the context of being pirates.

Zoro's thoughts drifted to the recent attack they had experienced, the knife with a lock of Sanji's hair tied to it. It felt like a direct threat, and it sent chills down his spine. He couldn't understand how someone had managed to obtain Sanji's hair in the first place, and he certainly couldn't share this concern with Sanji without revealing the danger.

Looking at the slightly shorter regrowth where the hair had been taken, Zoro realized that Sanji must have noticed it as well. The situation was becoming more perilous, and Zoro couldn't ignore the potential risks it posed to the crew and, in particular, to Sanji.

He sighed, conflicted by his feelings. Zoro had already sacrificed so much for the crew, and now his own emotions seemed to be putting them in danger. The crew was growing weary of the on-again, off-again nature of his and Sanji's relationship, and Zoro knew that something had to change. But for the safety of the crew and the man he loved, Zoro wasn't sure what that change should be.

Sanji stirred in his sleep, sensing a presence near him. He groaned softly and cracked open his eyes, squinting against the dim light. What he saw was Zoro, staring at him with a mixture of emotions in his eyes. Sanji's sleep-addled mind didn't register the intensity of Zoro's gaze at first.

Then, he felt something against his lips—Zoro's thumb. Sanji's instinctive reaction was to bite down on it gently. He didn't want to be disturbed from his peaceful slumber.

"Let me sleep," Sanji mumbled, his words muffled by Zoro's thumb in his mouth. His voice was soft, and his eyes were half-closed, as he attempted to reclaim the tranquility of his dreams. Sanji had no idea of the storm of thoughts that churned in Zoro's mind as he lay there, nestled in Zoro's embrace.

Zoro's eyes widened in surprise as Sanji, in his half-asleep state, chomped down on his thumb. He quickly withdrew it, a mix of amusement and affection in his gaze as he watched Sanji grumble out a request to be left alone.

"Alright, alright," Zoro whispered softly, leaning down to place a gentle kiss on Sanji's forehead. "Sleep, cook. I'll be right here when you wake up."

With that, Zoro settled back, wrapping his arms around Sanji protectively, and closing his own eyes, content in the knowledge that they were together, even if it was in the midst of a complicated and dangerous life as pirates.
Sanji and Zoro made their way to the car, ready to head to the dock. Sanji couldn't help but groan as he glanced at the piles of supplies they needed to load up.

"What? I'm the passenger princess here," Zoro quipped with a smirk, making it clear that he had no intention of helping with the heavy lifting because of such.

Sanji sighed, well aware of Zoro's knack for getting lost even on familiar routes. "I'm acutely aware of your inability to navigate," he muttered, starting the car and heading toward their destination.

"You better help unload the car when we get there, it's a lot of stuff," Sanji grumbled.

Zoro had the passenger seat reclined, and his hand began to slide up Sanji's thigh. "You know my prices," he teased.

"I've already told you I'll make the time..." Sanji sighed, grabbing Zoro's hand to prevent any further advances.

"I know, I just like reminding you because your brows curl more when you make that face," Zoro smirked.

Sanji rolled down the driver's side window and took his hands off the wheel for a moment in order to light his cigarette, earning a complaint from Zoro. "Both hands on the wheel, curls," Zoro urged.

Sanji blew out some smoke. "Chill, you whiner. It was only a second."

"Look, you may want an early grave, but I don't. Drive carefully or I'll do it," Zoro groaned, throwing his arms behind his head and closing his eyes.

Sanji rolled his eyes as they pulled into the dock.

As they lugged the supplies up the gangplank, Sanji couldn't help but notice the strain on Zoro's face. He decided to tease him a little.

"You know, Zoro, you're really living up to your 'disgusting brute' reputation right now," Sanji quipped, casting a sidelong glance at him.

Zoro grunted, clearly unamused. "Yeah, well, someone has to do the heavy lifting. Can't rely on your pretty-boy hands for everything."

Sanji chuckled, feeling a bit of a competitive edge. "Well, at least I can carry my own weight and not huff and puff like you."

Zoro shot him a glare, but there was a spark of something mischievous in his eye. "Is that a challenge, Cook?"

Sanji grinned, tossing a bag onto the deck. "Maybe it is, Swordsman. Let's see who can finish unloading faster."

Zoro laughs, "Usually I have to tell you not to."

“That’s NOT what I meant and you know that!” Sanji yelled.

Zoro chuckled, a low, husky sound. "Yeah, I know what you meant, Cook." He leaned in, his lips brushing against Sanji's earlobe. "But you love it when I tease you."

Sanji shivered as Zoro's warm breath tickled his ear. "You're infuriating, you know that?" he muttered, though his fingers relaxed their grip on the knife.

Zoro's hands slid around Sanji's waist, pulling him in closer. "I know, but you wouldn't have me any other way."

Zoro chuckled at Sanji's red face, finding it oddly endearing. He leaned in closer, their bodies almost touching. "You're cute when you're flustered," he remarked.

Sanji grumbled, trying to maintain his composure. "Don't get any ideas, Marimo."

As they worked together in the galley, their movements synchronized like a well-practiced dance. Once Sanji was finished with a bowl, Zoro would immediately grab it and wash it. During this, Zoro couldn't help but steal glances at Sanji, admiring his culinary skill and the grace with which he moved around the kitchen.

After a while Sanji had finished up everything, he wrapped his arms around Zoro's waist, and Zoro could feel the warmth of his body against his back. It was a comforting embrace, and he couldn't help but smile.

"You alright?" Zoro asked softly, genuinely concerned for Sanji's well-being.

Sanji nuzzled Zoro's neck and let out a heavy sigh. "Yeah, I'm alright. Let's just get this show started, Marimo."

Sanji took great care in plating and arranging the dishes on a buffet table, ensuring everything looked enticing and delicious. As he worked, he suddenly heard Luffy's excited scream. Both he and Zoro rushed outside to see what had gotten their captain so animated.

They found Luffy talking to an unusual-looking guy whose hands were covered in intricate tattoos. It was none other than Trafalgar Law, known as the Surgeon of Death.

Zoro, looking characteristically nonchalant, offered a nod and a half-smirk. "Sup."

Sanji, cigarette in hand, flashed a charming smile as he drawled, "Well, well, if it isn't the guest of honor. Prepare your taste buds, Law."

Luffy darted into the kitchen like a whirlwind, and Sanji hot on his heels. "Not this time, you little fucking twerp," Sanji muttered under his breath.

He managed to catch Luffy just as he was about to gobble down an entire ham, and with a swift kick, Sanji sent him right back out the door. An argument ensued about the proper etiquette for consuming food, and their exchange was abruptly halted by Chopper's request for some drinks.

Sanji, always quick on his feet, dashed over with a variety of cocktails and water in hand. However, Luffy had latched onto his leg like a determined barnacle. "Hold on a damn second, will ya?! LUFFY, LET GO!" Sanji yelled, attempting to shake him off.

With a final, exasperated effort, Sanji kicked Luffy so forcefully that he ricocheted off the main mast and tumbled onto the floor, sprawled out and whimpering, "Sanjiiiiiiiiiiiii, that huuuuuuuuuuurt."

"Quit your whining! And why the hell are we entertaining YOUR guest? Be a better host, Luffy," Sanji scolded, his irritation clear. He placed the drinks down and casually lit a cigarette from the nearby bonfire. Sanji then exchanged a quick wink with Zoro, who responded with an eye roll before motioning for Sanji to follow him to the back of the ship. Sanji didn't waste a moment and hurriedly trailed the green-haired swordsman to the kitchen.

Sanji looked at Zoro with curiosity when he was beckoned. "What's on your mind?" he inquired, unsure of why Zoro had called him over.

Zoro glanced around the area with a touch of concern before answering, "Do you find that guy suspicious?"

Sanji leaned in slightly, his expression thoughtful. "Well, to be honest, most of Luffy's friends are a bit... unconventional, aren't they?" He began arranging the table near the door, keeping an eye on their surroundings. "I understand your concern, but here's the plan: we both have the night watch duty, right? If we stay relatively sober, we can have some alone time later and keep an eye on things."

Zoro seemed to contemplate this for a moment. "Yeah, I suppose you're right."

"Good," Sanji affirmed. "Just remember, we have to put on a show for Luffy. Let's face it, everyone is suspicious of this guy. Robin wanted to take him out on the spot." He winked at Zoro playfully. "So put on your charming smile and play the part."

With that, Sanji confidently pushed the buffet table through the door, ready to continue with the evening's festivities.Sanji emerged with a flourish, presenting a mouthwatering buffet spread that seemed to stretch for miles.

“Eat up, freaks.” Sanji said with a devilish grin, letting out a cloud of smoke from his lungs. He flicked his cigarette to the side.

Sanji decided to let Nami and Usopp employ their mind games on Law. It wasn't necessarily a matter of mistrusting Law, but the timing couldn't have been more unfortunate. As they questioned Law, Sanji handed Zoro a plate of food with a sly grin.

He then turned his attention to placing more drinks near Nami and Usopp. While doing so, Sanji's keen eye caught Luffy making a sneaky attempt to steal food from Zoro's plate. In a lightning-quick motion, Sanji's leg connected with Luffy's head, resulting in a yelp from the rubbery pirate. "Keep your hands off Zoro's food, you moron! He's mine."

Luffy rubbed his head, playfully pouting. "Aw, Sanji, you're no fun."

Zoro's scowl deepened, his voice holding a mix of irritation and defiance. "I'm not YOURS, curly brows. I belong to you only temporarily."

Usopp chimed in, seizing the chance to meddle. "Temporarily? Can you two just figure it out already?! We don't care that you like men, Zoro! Stop being so bashful and get your act together." Sanji was attempting to hide his blush and a mix of hurt by lighting another cigarette. Robin and Franky exchanged knowing glances, sipping their drinks quietly.

Zoro's patience wore thin as he pointed his sword at Usopp. "Shut up, long nose, or I'll make you a short nose."

Nami's laughter rang out, her wit as sharp as ever. "Not much of a threat, Zoro. You might actually be doing him a favor."

"Don't deny what's right in front of us, Zoro," Sanji retorted with a playful grin, his body pressing suggestively against the swordsman's side. He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a sultry whisper. "We both know there's something between us."

Zoro's irritation was evident, but there was a flicker of something else in his eyes. He pushed Sanji off the bench, a mix of annoyance and desire in his voice. "Stop messing around, cook."

Sanji let out a low chuckle as he straightened up, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Oh, I'm not messing around, swordsman. I'm just getting started."

Zoro gently pulled Sanji back up onto the bench, his eyes not leaving Law for a moment. "Look at Robin..."

Sanji followed his gaze, furrowing his brows. "Why is she using her—"

"Probably just a warning," Zoro interrupted, his voice low and serious. "I mean, Franky seems to be catching on too."

Sanji watched as Robin laughed off Franky's concern, and the suspicion in the air grew thicker. Suddenly, Franky's booming voice cut through the noise, capturing everyone's attention. He raised his glass high, a mischievous twinkle in his eye as he gave Robin a subtle nod—his unspoken plea for her trust.

"To Law!" Franky declared loudly, his grin infectious. "Hopefully, our captain didn't cause you so much trouble that you'll never return here."

Zoro continued to keep a close eye on Law, his instincts on high alert as he tried to decipher the surgeon's true intentions.

Sanji looked over to see Zoro's suspicion. Following Franky's lead, he picked up the speech seamlessly, a smirk playing on his lips. "Yeah, yeah, we're not all that bad, you know. Just ignore the chaos, and you'll fit right in," he said, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

Zoro chimed in, his voice gruff yet oddly friendly. "And if you can tolerate the cook's constant bickering, you'll survive just fine," he added with a slight tease directed at Sanji's behavior.

Sanji's retort was immediate, his words dripping with playful flirtation. "Hey, swordsman, I can think of a few ways you could 'survive' with my help," he purred, leaning in closer to Zoro.

Zoro's scowl deepened as he threatened, "Keep your goddamn hands off me, cook. For fuck's sake, do you have an off switch? FIVE MINUTES is all I'm asking for."

Sanji glanced over at Zoro and couldn't help but notice that the swordsman appeared to be rather intoxicated.

"How did you get drunk that fast?" Sanji asked, a hint of concern in his voice.

Zoro attempted to respond with a wink, but with only one eye, it came off as more of a half-hearted blink.

Chopper's alarmed voice rang out, high-pitched and concerned. "You can't possibly drive after all that!? Your blood alcho-"
Zoro chimed in with a distinct drunken hiccup, his mind still processing the peculiar situation. "Hey, you know what? You should stay here a bit longer," he slurred, trying to appear casual but hiding a hint of suspicion. "I mean, Luffy won't mind. It's not the dorms, but... it's like camping."

He made a vague gesture towards Luffy, who was in a less than graceful state, leaning against the mast with a trail of drool down his shoulder. With a drowsy mumble, Luffy managed to respond, his words slurred and barely coherent.

"Yeah... yeah, just throw him in my room," Luffy slurred, his words punctuated by a yawn.

Sanji, picking up on Zoro's subtle plan, decided to assist Law. "Hey, follow me," he said with a casual grin. He guided Law through the ship's interior, first showing him the bathroom, and then pointing out the crew's sleeping quarters. All the while, he kept up his usual bickering about Zoro to maintain the facade.

"So there we are having the most passionate, loving..." Sanji began, but quickly noticed that Law appeared disinterested or distracted. Sanji decided to play along, thinking,

"Anyway, here's your room," Sanji continued, gesturing to the designated sleeping area. "It's technically Luffy's, but he has a thing for sleeping on the Sunny's head." He nodded towards the figurehead lion on the ship's front, which looked more like a sunflower than anything else.

Zoro caught up to Sanji, his expression a mix of irritation and confusion. "What the hell was that all about?! Did you seriously tell him—"

Sanji cut him off with a knowing look. "Relax, Marimo. It's all part of the act. If we act like clueless idiots, maybe he'll let something slip, you know what I mean?" He flashed a sly wink at Zoro.

Nami, from across the deck, couldn't help but overhear their conversation and chimed in with annoyance. "If you two are gonna talk about that nasty stuff, at least make sure we're not within earshot!" She grabbed a nearby bottle and hurled it in their direction, narrowly missing them.

Sanji, handling the thoroughly intoxicated Luffy, unceremoniously tossed him into his room. Luffy shuffles and finds himself on an ottoman. "There you go, Captain. Enjoy some quality time with our 'guest,'" he quipped with a mischievous grin. "Consider it your duty as captain to entertain our new friend."

The night continued to envelop the Sunny in its quiet embrace. Sanji and Zoro found themselves reclining on the ship's deck, nestled in each other's warmth. Zoro playfully pulled Sanji on top of him, their bodies snug against each other.

With a knowing smirk, Zoro whispered, "I think everyone's asleep by now."

Sanji chuckled softly, his fingers tracing patterns on Zoro's chest. "Yeah, but let's not be too reckless. We can find a more discreet spot on the ship."

The moon was cool on his skin, the breeze sending him chills as he laid in the grass. Sanji was next to him, their bodies close together as they talked about their plans to move to a more discreet location.

As they spoke, Zoro couldn't help but notice the bulge in Sanji's pants. He grinned, reaching out to cup it through the fabric. "What's this?" he asked teasingly.

Sanji blushed, pushing his hand away. "None of your business," he muttered, trying to hide his arousal.

Zoro laughed, pulling him closer. "Oh, I think it is," he said, kissing him roughly. "You've been teasing me all day, and now it's my turn."

Sanji hesitated for a moment, but then he smiled, running his fingers down Zoro's chest. "You’ve been the one who has been teasing me all day," he murmured, "but we need to go elsewhere…"

Zoro smirked, “No, I think here is fine.”

“But…” Sanji sat up, leaning against Zoro’s chest. “What if…”

“They won’t” Zoro pushes him back on the ground harder than he meant, “But you gotta show me that you deserve it.”

“What do you mean-” Sanji yelled, Zoro cupped his mouth quickly.

He leaned into him, putting almost all of his body weight onto Sanji’s mouth which had caused him to tear up, “Since you want to complain, you gotta show me how much you want it.” Zoro could feel Sanji huff hard against his hand and he rolled his eyes at Zoro.

Sanji struggles with his belt, “You can’t undo your own belt? I could just break it again.” Zoro says, Sanji’s eyes narrow and he licks Zoro’s hand trying to free himself. “Yeah that’s not gonna work.”

Sanji angrily fumbles with his belt and pants, kicking and throwing a fit. Zoro continues to cover Sanji's mouth with one hand, his other hand on Sanji’s hips, pinning Sanji's writhing body to the ground. Zoro leans close, his whisper a mere flicker of air against Sanji's ear… “Throwing a tantrum won’t free you though… But you know I’m not trying that hard to hold you down. So you must really want it.”

Zoro's touch sends a shudder through Sanji, and his head tilts back ever so slightly. His body is stiff with pent up tension, making it impossible not to squirm under Zoro's touch. He moans softly again, his cheeks flush with pleasure and shame as he stares up at Zoro.. It takes all of his resolve not to give in to Zoro and beg for more, but he tries to contain his urge. He stares up at Zoro longingly, almost asking for approval with just his glance.

Zoro rips down on Sanji’s pants, “Well?” He shivers and gasps at Zoro's touch, his body aching with a passion and arousal that he hasn't felt in a long time. His breathing is shallow and uneven, and a soft moan escapes his lips.

, Sanji thought to himself,

Without waiting for further encouragement, Sanji reached down and grasped his cock, stroking it firmly. Zoro watched with fascination, his eyes fixed on the rapidly moving hand.

“So the idiot cook can follow instructions? Good. Keep going.” Zoro smirked, leaning in to bite on Sanji’s ear which forced Sanji’s hips up. Zoro pushes his hips back down, “Come now… It’s a little early to be doing that…”

Sanji muffles, and kicks his legs. Zoro leans down and licks Sanji’s tears. Which caused Sanji to push Zoro off, “You… son of a bitch…” Sanji gasps out.

“Aww come on, don’t look at me like that with your dick in your hand.” Zoro teases, pushing Sanji back down.

Sanji’s still trying to catch his breath, “Ass..hole…”

“If you want it, you’re gonna have to beg.” Zoro says, crawling over Sanji. “I’ll let you have it this time…”

Sanji’s eyes widened, “So I have to embarrass myself to be able to top you?”

“Well I’d be on top–”

“So I don’t even get to put you in an embarrassing position. What’s the fun in that?!” Sanji complains, throwing himself back on the grass.

“Better beg then.” Zoro huffs, licking Sanji’s cheek.

“Fucking…” Sanji huffs, “Zo..ro.. I-”

Zoro laughs, “Go on…” Zoro starts to rub his cock against Sanji’s. “Now.. both..”
Sanji moans, and begins to rub both of their cocks. “Zoro.. I’m gonna..”

“Like hell you will, hold it in.” Zoro grunts.

“It’s not that SIMPLE!” Sanji says annoyed, shooting up to whisper-yell in Zoro’s ear.

Zoro grabs onto Sanji's shoulder, starting to straddle Sanji’s hips, pushing himself against him. He reached down to grasp it, guiding it towards his entrance.

Sanji gasped as Zoro sank down onto him, their bodies joining in a tight embrace. It felt incredible, being so close to someone he cared about so much. Zoro started to move, his hips rising and falling in a steady rhythm. Sanji groaned, arching up into him as they both grew more and more turned on. It wasn't long before Zoro was close to climaxing. With a cry, he slammed down hard, his cock exploding onto Sanji’s chest. Sanji followed soon after, his own orgasm powerful enough to make him see stars, as he fell back onto the ground. They lay there for a moment, breathless and content, their bodies still entwined.

"That was amazing," Zoro murmured, leaning over to kiss Sanji softly." I love you."

Sanji was still recovering, he felt like he had ascended to heaven, and coughed out. “Yeah… yeah… I love you too.”

Zoro picked Sanji up in his arms, carrying him up toward the bath. He threw Sanji over his shoulder and started up the ladder.

“Can you atleast warn me when you’re about to put me in danger?” Sanji says, gripping Zoro’s back trying not to slip off. “You didn’t even grab our clothes!? You idiot.”

Zoro chuckled, his deep voice vibrating through his chest. "Relax, cook. I had to take you by surprise; it makes things more exciting."

Sanji huffed in response, still clinging to Zoro. "Exciting, my ass. And you're grabbing the clothes from the lawn. I swear, you're such a dumbass sometimes."

As they reached the bath, Zoro gently lowered Sanji into the warm water. He grinned, his playful nature never too far away. "Well, you're here now, aren't you? And I'll make it up to you, alright?"

Sanji shot Zoro a suspicious look but eventually nodded. "Fine, but don't think this gets you off the hook. You owe me, swordsman."

Zoro waggled his eyebrows suggestively. "Oh, I plan on repaying that debt, cook." He reached for a bar of soap. "How about I start by helping you wash up?"

As the steam swirled around them, Sanji couldn't help but watch Zoro's movements. There was something captivating about the way the swordsman handled himself, even in the mundane task of washing up. Sanji traced his eyes over those scars, each one holding a story, a piece of Zoro's past.

But it wasn't just the physical aspects that drew Sanji in. It was the way Zoro's eyes softened when he looked at him, the way he would steal glances when he thought Sanji wasn't looking. There was a tenderness there that contradicted the rough exterior he often displayed. Sanji had always been good at reading people, but Zoro was an enigma he couldn't quite decipher.

As Zoro reached for the soap, his strong fingers wrapping around it, Sanji's thoughts wandered. Did Zoro truly care for him, or was this just another facet of their complex relationship? It was hard to tell, especially when their interactions ranged from heated arguments to stolen glances filled with longing.

Sanji sighed softly, a mix of frustration and longing swirling in his chest. He wanted to believe that Zoro cared for him as much as he cared for the swordsman. But their pirate life, filled with danger and uncertainty, often left little room for vulnerability. He sat up from laying his head on the edge of the bath and turned to reclined back.

Zoro's eyes met his, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Lost in thought, cook?"

Sanji blinked, realizing he had been staring. He offered a smirk in return. "Just thinking about how much of a pain in the ass you are, Marimo."

Zoro chuckled, a low and gravelly sound that sent shivers down Sanji's spine. "Well, that makes two of us, love-cook."

As they continued to wash up in comfortable silence, Sanji couldn't help but hope that maybe, just maybe, there was something more between them than the constant bickering and heated exchanges. He would have to wait until Zoro figures himself out.

Zoro's grumbling filled the air as he navigated the cold deck of the Sunny. His discomfort was palpable, and he couldn't help but shoot a glare in Sanji's direction. "Do I seriously have to go get the clothes?" he grumbled, his voice laced with annoyance.

Sanji, still perched on the edge of the bath with a towel wrapped around him, shot back without hesitation. "You're the one who took me captive. Go get them!"

With a reluctant huff, Zoro made his way down the ladder, his bare feet feeling the cool wood beneath them. He scooped up their scattered clothes, muttering under his breath about the insufferable cook who had gotten them into this situation in the first place. Despite Zoro instigating the entire thing.

The cold breeze nipped at his skin, making him shiver as he made his way back up to the bath. He tossed the clothes in Sanji's direction, not bothering with any pleasantries. "Here, you damn cook," he grumbled, his annoyance still evident in his posture.

Sanji caught the clothes with a smirk, not bothering to hide his amusement at Zoro's discomfort. "You're such a baby, Marimo," he teased as he began to dry himself off with the towel.

Zoro shot him a glare, but it lacked its usual heat.

Under the starry night sky, Zoro and Sanji descended from the bath, back onto the sun-warmed deck of the Thousand Sunny. The air had lost its chill, and a gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the nearby trees.

As they settled on the lawn, the exhaustion had finally caught up with Sanji. He lay down, his head finding a comfortable spot on Zoro's thigh, his eyes drifting.

Zoro couldn't help but let his fingers trace lightly through Sanji's hair. The constant bickering between them seemed to fade away in these quiet moments, replaced by a sense of intimacy that neither of them would readily admit to.

For now, under the starlit sky, they found a rare peace. Zoro's gaze shifted from the twinkling stars above to the man resting on his thigh, and he couldn't help but wonder where their relationship would lead to.

The moon hung high in the night sky as Zoro sat there, Sanji still asleep, nestled in his lap. The first hour passed quietly, with Zoro occasionally shifting his position, trying to stay comfortable. He sharpened Wado Ichimonji, the blade glinting in the moonlight. It was a soothing task, one that allowed him to focus on something other than the constant battles and challenges that came with being a pirate.

In the second hour, Zoro decided to do some basic maintenance on his other swords. Sandai Kitetsu received a thorough cleaning, its ominous aura somehow less intimidating in the quiet of the night. Shusui, with its cursed history, got some special attention. Zoro had a strange bond with his swords, a connection that extended beyond the physical, and he felt a duty to care for them.

As the third hour approached, Zoro couldn't help but think about Sanji. He watched the cook's peaceful expression, the way his chest rose and fell with each breath. There was vulnerability in sleep, even for someone as strong-willed as Sanji. Zoro wondered what dreams danced through his mind, what memories or fears surfaced in the darkness.

By the fourth hour, Zoro's watchful vigil had become a contemplative one. He found himself lost in thought, reflecting on the events that had led them here, to this moment on the Thousand Sunny's lawn. It was moments like these that made the chaos and danger of their pirate life almost bearable.

As dawn approached and the first light of morning painted the horizon, Sanji began to stir. His eyelids fluttered open, and he found himself gazing up at Zoro, who had been silently guarding his slumber throughout the night. A small smile tugged at the corner of Sanji's lips, and he mumbled a drowsy "Good morning," before shifting to sit up.

Zoro nodded in response, his usual gruff exterior softening just a fraction.

"After a long night like that," Sanji said, pausing to put a cigarette in his mouth, "I'm gonna need a few of these."

Zoro grumbled in agreement, mentioning his desire for sake, but Sanji insisted they wait until after breakfast. The sun began to rise, casting a warm glow over the ship, and Sanji let out a reluctant sigh. "Guess it's time to get started... Care to help?" he asked, his cheeks tinged with a hint of embarrassment.

Zoro nodded and joined Sanji in the kitchen. They worked in a comfortable silence for a while, chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.

Their peaceful morning, however, was abruptly shattered by the sound of Luffy crashing into the kitchen, his insatiable appetite driving him forward. Sanji and Zoro exchanged knowing glances, a silent acknowledgment that their moments of tranquility were going to be pushed aside for some time.

Luffy was brandishing one of Zoro's swords like a toy, much to the swordsman's evident fury. Zoro's internal monologue was a storm of irritation and concern, as he watched his prized possessions in the hands of the carefree captain. His voice rose above the commotion, a mix of anger and warning in his words as he demanded the return of his swords.

"Oi, Luffy! Bring back my swords, or I'll turn you into chewing gum!" Zoro's threat echoed across the deck, and his eyes blazed with a mixture of annoyance and indignation. The mere thought of his swords being mishandled sent a surge of anger through him.

Luffy's response, true to his carefree nature, was nothing short of whimsical. "Chewing gum, huh? What flavor do you think I'd be?" Zoro's irritation deepened at Luffy's nonchalant attitude. He watched with a sense of impending trouble as Luffy stretched his arm out lazily, oblivious to the potential danger. However, his casual motion resulted in the blade of the sword grazing Law's arm, causing a minor cut that stung in its wake.

Zoro's grip on his own swords tightened, his muscles tensing as he prepared for the worst. He looked over to Law, expecting a full-blown confrontation. The swordsman's instincts kicked in, and he quickly recovered, drawing his other swords in case the situation escalated further.

The chaos had drawn all of the Straw Hat crew members to the upper deck. Zoro's stern expression remained, but beneath it lay a flicker of a threat from their unusual guest, Law. The tension in the air was thick, and Zoro knew that this situation could quickly spiral into something more dangerous.

"Dammit, Luffy! What the fuck were you thinking?" Law's voice erupted in a mix of anger and frustration as he gripped his wounded arm, applying pressure to the cut.

Luffy's stammered apology was feeble, his words almost lost in the turmoil of the moment. "I... Law, I didn't mean to."

Law's patience had been worn thin, and his anger was evident as he continued to berate Luffy. "What did you honestly expect would happen when you started playing with a fucking sword?"

Sanji stormed onto the scene, his footsteps heavy with intent, and his face a storm of anger. The sight of Luffy's impulsive actions had become a familiar frustration for the cook. He didn't hold back his words, his voice cutting through the air like a blade.

"So he's gone and done it again... Dumb bastard," Sanji muttered, his frustration with Luffy's tendencies evident. His brow furrowed as he assessed the situation, realizing that Luffy had once again acted recklessly.

Luffy's tears mixed with his remorse as he looked to Sanji, attempting to explain himself. But Sanji wasn't in the mood for excuses. He cut Luffy off with a stern tone, his irritation evident in his words.

"I didn't mean to, Sanji. I was just—"

"Just what, Luffy? You heard him," Zoro interjected, his voice tinged with a mix of concern and responsibility. Sanji couldn't help but agree with Zoro's sentiment. Luffy's impulsiveness had once again led to dire consequences.

Sanji's frustration boiled over, and he decided to take action. He cast a hostile look at Zoro, his irritation with the swordsman palpable. Sanji glanced upward at Robin, seeking her assistance in handling the situation. "You just damn well cut him, Luffy. Do you really think he wants you around him right now?" Sanji's voice was firm and filled with exasperation. He glanced up at Robin, his frustration evident as he sought a way to prevent Luffy from making things worse.

"Robin, lend me a hand—or an arm, would you?" Sanji's request was direct, his focus on resolving the chaos Luffy had caused.

With her enigmatic Devil Fruit ability, Robin's hands extended from various angles, wrapping around Luffy to immobilize him effectively. Luffy's protests echoed in the air, but he was held in place, unable to move. The tension among the crew members was undeniable, as they grappled with the aftermath of Luffy's impulsive actions.

Sanji left the kitchen, determined to finish preparing breakfast and set things right after the incident with Luffy and Law. He knew the crew needed a hearty meal to start their day.

Moments later, Zoro entered the kitchen, his presence prompting Sanji's attention. The cook couldn't help but express his frustration, his tone laced with irritation.

"What was with that look?" Zoro inquired, puzzled by the intense glare Sanji had cast in his direction.

Sanji let out a weary groan, clearly exasperated. "You'd think the world's greatest swordsman could keep his swords next to him."

Zoro attempted to defend himself, his fatigue evident in his voice. "Hey, I haven't slept. Luffy just caught me off guard!"

Sanji's anger flared, and he didn't hold back in expressing it. He raised his voice, chastising Zoro for shouting in the kitchen. His face turned a shade of red as he vented his frustration.

"Don't yell in my fucking kitchen. I'll feed you, but we are not done with this. Now, you'll go back to your stone face and pretend we're fine!" Sanji's words were firm, leaving no room for argument.

Zoro sighed, realizing that Sanji was right. He needed to maintain their façade of normalcy for the sake of the crew. Sanji, still visibly upset, turned to the kitchen sink and rested his head against the counter. Zoro decided to leave him to his thoughts, walking out of the kitchen.

As Zoro stepped out, he was met with Luffy's loud voice, echoing through the ship. But he interrupted Luffy, determined to address the issue.

"You guys, come get breakfast," Zoro called out to the crew. "Luffy, we will fix it, alright?" His words carried a sense of responsibility and assurance.

The Straw Hat crew gathered around the dining table, eagerly digging into the hearty breakfast that Sanji had prepared. Plates were filled with eggs, bacon, fruits, and various other delicious treats. Laughter and chatter filled the air as they enjoyed the meal.

As the breakfast came to an end, and everyone's stomachs were happily satisfied, Sanji made his way over to Zoro. He placed a bottle of sake on the table and rested a hand on Zoro's shoulder, a silent invitation for a private moment.

Zoro glanced at the bottle and then at Sanji. With a nod, he acknowledged the unspoken plan. "Later," he said, his voice low and filled with a promise of the conversation they needed to have.

Sanji's voice cut through the post-breakfast chatter, and he began clearing the table with practiced efficiency. "Alright, you bunch of freaks, time to disperse," he declared, a playful tone underlying his words.

As Zoro stayed behind to assist with the clean-up, an atmosphere of silent, passive-aggressive tension filled the air. They worked together, but their movements were stiff, and their gazes seldom met.

Sanji, the picture of annoyance, clanged dishes and utensils together a little louder than necessary, as if daring Zoro to comment. He shot occasional glares in Zoro's direction, the frustration evident in his body language.

Zoro, on the other hand, washed the dishes with a detached focus, his jaw set in a stubborn line. His lack of engagement in the usual banter spoke volumes, and his silence felt like a heavy weight in the room.

Sanji couldn't bear the tense silence any longer, and he finally broke it with a hesitant question, "You okay?"

"No, I'm not." Zoro's eyes remained fixed on the task at hand, refusing to meet Sanji's gaze. His response was curt and filled with frustration, "You really think I'd just let Luffy do stupid shit when I have an actual demon sword that can kill the user."

Sanji's smirk crept onto his face despite the seriousness of the situation. "Maybe that's what you'd like. Maybe we could have some peace."

Zoro's irritation flared, and he snapped back, "Not in the mood for your jokes." He swatted away Sanji's attempt to reach out, keeping his emotions guarded and his focus on the cleanup.

Sanji's voice carried a note of desperation as he pleaded, "Zoro... come on..."

Zoro's resolve remained firm, and he replied, "I'm heading back to campus, I'm not really feeling parties right now. But thank you for the food." His hand unconsciously hovered near the hilt of his swords, a clear sign of his unease.

Sanji scrambled to find a reason to keep Zoro around. "I mean, I drove..."

But Zoro quickly shot down that option. "Franky's heading back to work. So I'm hitching along." Franky's job as a mechanic gave Zoro the perfect excuse to leave.

"I see... Well, try not to—" Sanji started, but Zoro cut him off abruptly with a cold remark. "Get lost, Cook."

Sanji immersed himself in the familiar rhythm of the kitchen, a sanctuary where he could temporarily escape the turmoil of his thoughts. As he prepared lunch and dinner, meticulously planning tomorrow's meals and snacks, his mind occasionally wandered back to his recent spat with Zoro.

A cloud of cigarette smoke swirled around him as he pondered Zoro's words. What kind of person just lets Luffy take their weapon, especially when that weapon is as dangerous as Zoro's swords? It was a valid point, and it gnawed at Sanji's consciousness.

"Lunch is ready, folks. Grab a plate," Sanji announced, though his usual enthusiasm was notably absent from his voice.

As the crew gathered around the table, Luffy couldn't help but wonder aloud, "Hey, where did Zoro go?"

Robin, ever the pragmatist, responded by tossing a piece of bread at Luffy, a silent gesture that conveyed, "Focus on eating first."

While everyone filled their plates and engaged in casual chatter, Chopper took a moment to express his concern about Law's wound. Sanji, despite his subdued mood, joined the conversation, offering a suggestion. "Luffy, maybe you should check in on Law and make sure he's alright. That cut looked pretty nasty."

Luffy's response was typically nonchalant as he devoured his food. "Law's a tough guy, he can handle it," he mumbled between bites, seemingly unperturbed by the recent incident.

Sanji, while acknowledging Luffy's confidence in their guest, couldn't help but feel a nagging worry for Law. "I hope so," he muttered under his breath, taking a sip of his tea before returning to his meal.

"Well, he does appear quite formidable," Robin remarked with a subtle, knowing smirk. Her words were laden with a mysterious air, leaving the crew to ponder the significance of Law's tattoos.

She casually brushed aside their suspicions with a cryptic statement, "After all, one doesn't acquire that many tattoos without having a certain level of strength and resilience."

"Alright, folks, I'm calling it early and heading back to the dorms," Sanji announced to the crew. His tiredness was evident as he spoke. "I've prepared meals for the next few days, so if any of you decide to hang out here, make sure to bring some home. And Robin, do share some with Franky."

Robin responded with a hint of intrigue, "Oh? Has Franky done something special for you, Sanji? I'll certainly convey your gratitude."

Sanji sighed, lighting a cigarette, and spoke softly, "Thank you, Robin, but could you keep it a bit low-key?"

Usopp and Nami, overhearing the conversation, quickly ushered Luffy and Chopper away to give the two some privacy.

"You can't expect him to be perfect, Sanji," Robin remarked, trying to comfort him.

"I don't... I just... ugh... How could he let...?" Sanji's words trailed off in frustration.

Robin leaned in and inquired gently, "Do you really think he would let Luffy do something like that?"

Sanji turned his head away, conflicted. "No..."

Robin gave a reassuring smile. "Well, be sure to make it up to him, Sanji."

With a cigarette between his lips, Sanji carefully cradled a bag of meals, specially prepared for himself and Zoro. He waved a nonchalant farewell to Luffy before stowing the bag in the trunk of his car. As he settled into the driver's seat and ignited the engine, his gaze fell on the sleek, black interior.

A sigh escaped his lips, carrying with it a sense of longing and a touch of melancholy. The car felt empty without Zoro by his side. Sanji eased the vehicle out of its parking spot.

Sanji, with his bag slung over his shoulder, arrived at the campus and approached his dorm room. However, he hesitated before opening the door. His gaze drifted to the door right next to his, Zoro's door, and a flicker of curiosity overtook him. Without overthinking it, he reached out to try the handle, but it was locked.

A sigh escaped his lips, and he turned away from Zoro's door, preparing to enter his own room. However, as he reached for the handle, he was met with a surprising sight. Zoro, with an uncharacteristic display of subtlety, opened the door to Sanji's dorm from the inside.

"Oh, you're back," Zoro grunted, a hint of surprise in his voice.

Sanji raised an eyebrow, his amusement evident. "Why was your first instinct to go to *my* dorm?"

"I thought you were Usopp... I texted him to bring me food," Zoro admitted with a nonchalant shrug.

"Some of *my* food?" Sanji quipped with a smirk, patting the bag. "I got that covered."

"I want your cooking, but I don't want it from you," Zoro replied flatly, moving to the side to let Sanji inside.

Sanji couldn't help but roll his eyes dramatically. "Oh, thank you sooooo much for inviting me into my *own* home."

However, as Zoro slammed the door behind them, Sanji's playful facade faded, and he couldn't help but notice the tension in the air.

Sanji found himself frozen in place, his usual confidence replaced by a sense of uncertainty. He watched as Zoro took the bag from him and began unloading the plates and bowls into the fridge, grumbling all the while about the containers.

With a heavy sigh, Sanji finally sat down on the couch, his arms crossed as he tried to process the unusual tension between them.

Zoro, busy heating up a plate of food in the microwave, didn't seem to notice Sanji's discomfort. "Oh, as if you have any reason to look like that. I'm eating your food, aren't I?" he remarked, glancing over at Sanji as he retrieved the plate from the microwave.

Sanji opened one eye, looking at Zoro with a hint of irritation. "Microwaves spoil good meals, you know. They offset the moisture—"

"Yeah, well, I don't give a shit," Zoro cut him off, leaning against the counter as he continued talking to Sanji.

Sanji took a deep breath, realizing that taking the high road wasn't going to help resolve this situation. "I'm sorry—" he began.

But Zoro cut him off with a sharp retort. "Oh, thank goodness, the *little prince* is sorry about his actions and is just now realizing how your words affect others," he snapped, his frustration evident. "You really think I don't fucking understand how dangerous Luffy can be, or how dangerous I can be?"

Sanji sighed, reaching for his lighter to calm his nerves with a cigarette, but Zoro swiftly intervened. He pushed the plate aside and stomped over to Sanji, snatching the lighter from his hand. "No, fuck that. I won't let you just smoke away your goddamn feelings if I can't drink mine away."

Sanji's anger flared, and he got right in Zoro's face, yelling, "Really? What feelings? You can't even admit that you're gay!" His words were heated, and a small spray of spittle landed on Zoro's face.

Zoro's expression hardened as he retorted, "You don't even understand that I'm trying to protect you." The intensity in his eyes matched the frustration in his voice.

"Protect me? From what? Making the decision to stay with you when I could have any woman I want?!" Sanji's words burst out with anger, but he immediately regretted the outburst.

Zoro's response was unexpectedly calm and flat. "You noticed hair was missing, and you never said anything," he stated.

Sanji's eyes widened in shock. "Wait... What? How did you know?" His voice was a mix of surprise and concern as he grabbed Zoro by the shirt, desperation evident in his grip. "What the hell do you know?"

Zoro didn't answer directly. He threw the plate into the sink and made to leave the dorm. "You should have stayed at the ship. The crew needs you," he said as he walked away.

"Hang on, what the hell do you know?!" Sanji called out, his grip on Zoro's shirt growing tighter, trying to stop him from leaving. But Zoro merely pulled off his shirt and threw it at Sanji before heading to his own dorm.

Sanji stormed around his dorm room, muttering to himself in frustration. "That fucker took them," he grumbled, referring to Zoro's unapologetic attitude and the missing cigarettes. His agitation grew as he searched for his precious smokes.

As he made his way to the car in search of his car-smokes and lighter, Sanji continued his one-sided conversation with himself. "I can't believe him. Always acting like he knows everything. And how the hell did he know about the hair? Damn it, I should've kept my mouth shut. But he doesn't understand what it's like, dealing with Luffy's antics."

He reached his car, hastily unlocking it and rummaging through the glove compartment for his emergency pack of smokes and a spare lighter. "Well, he can do whatever the hell he wants. I don't need his drama."

Sanji lit a cigarette and took a long drag, the bitter taste doing little to soothe his irritation.

As Sanji strolled back to his room, the cigarette in hand, he couldn't shake off the lingering frustration and unease that had settled within him. The nicotine did little to calm his racing thoughts. He opened the door to his room and stepped inside, exhaling a plume of smoke as he did.

The room felt tense, filled with the echoes of the argument with Zoro. Sanji knew deep down that he should have handled things differently, but his pride and temper often got the better of him. He took another drag from his cigarette, the smoke swirling around him as he leaned against the wall.

As Sanji stood in the shower, the warm water cascading over him, he tried to clear his mind. The cigarette still burned in his fingers, forgotten for a moment as he let the water wash away the tension from the argument. Yet, no matter how hard he tried to focus on the simple act of cleansing himself, his thoughts kept drifting back to Zoro.

In his own room, Zoro couldn't shake the weight of the argument either. He sat on his bed, repeatedly flicking the lighter Sanji had left behind, the sparks and the sound serving as a frustrating reminder of their clash. He knew he had been harsh, perhaps even unfair, but his concern for Sanji had driven him to the brink.

Opening a drawer, Zoro's fingers brushed against the knife and the lock of Sanji's hair. His touch lingered on the strands, his mind racing with conflicted emotions. He couldn't deny the fear that had gripped him when he discovered the missing hair, but now, holding it in his hands, he was confronted with a mystery that went beyond their argument. With a heavy sigh, he set the lock of hair aside and continued to flick the lighter absentmindedly.

Sanji settled on his bed, exhaustion weighing heavy on him, his eyes drooping as sleep beckoned. Just as he was about to succumb to its embrace, a thought jolted him upright.

, he realized.

With newfound determination, he extended his arm, lightly rapping a specific pattern on the wall that separated their rooms. One-two, a brief pause, then a single knock, followed by one final pair of knocks.

It was a secret code, a rhythm known only to Zoro and Sanji – a non-verbal message that spoke of their unique connection. Sanji's heart raced as he waited in silence for a response from the swordsman next door.

Zoro, on the other side of the wall, heard the familiar knocks. He hesitated for a moment, his emotions in turmoil, before he let out a resigned sigh. There was a single knock in response, a silent acknowledgment that carried a world of unspoken sentiments.

It was their way of saying,
, without uttering a word.

Sanji, feeling a surge of relief and amusement, responded with three quick knocks in succession – a playful signal of his own. His own way of telling Zoro,
.

On the other side of the wall, Zoro's frustrated groan was loud enough for Sanji to hear, and it only made him laugh heartily. Sanji's laughter echoed through the wall, reaching Zoro's ears. In response, Zoro pounded his fist against the wall once, a gesture of understanding and a request for peace.

The morning sun streamed through the window, casting a warm glow over the dorm room. Sanji was abruptly jolted from his slumber by the loud clatter of a chair being flipped over. Startled, he stumbled out of bed with the grace of a man on a mission, his curiosity piqued.

Rushing to the source of the commotion, Sanji's disheveled appearance didn't deter him from investigating. There, in the small dormitory kitchen, was Zoro, looking uncharacteristically flustered as he attempted to prepare breakfast.

Zoro turned to Sanji, his expression a mix of guilt and determination. "You always make us stuff, so I figured I would let you sleep in," he mumbled, his words laden with sincerity.

Sanji raised an eyebrow, his skepticism evident. "Do you even know how to cook?" he questioned, his voice laced with doubt.

Zoro met Sanji's gaze squarely, his usual aloofness momentarily replaced with earnestness. "I've seen you enough times to get a sense of it," he retorted, a hint of defensiveness in his tone.

Sanji sighed, his annoyance evident. "I made breakfast sandwiches for grab-and-go's. Did you check the containers?" he asked, clearly miffed that Zoro had taken on the cooking duty without thoroughly inspecting the prepared meals.

"We will just eat them tomorrow," Zoro declared with confidence, although he was clearly struggling to manage the cooking tasks. Sanji let out a resigned sigh, his first instinct to reach for a cigarette, but he remembered that they were currently unavailable.

"Let me take over, my little marimo," Sanji offered, leaning in to plant a small kiss on Zoro's lips. "And go get my smokes for fuck's sake. I didn't prevent you from having booze."

Zoro hesitated, holding off on fetching the cigarettes until he felt they had addressed the lingering tension from the previous night. "So, are we just gonna ignore last night, or are we actually going to talk about it?" he asked, his expression indicating that he was awaiting a proper apology.

Sanji sighed, realizing he needed to clear the air. "I'm sorry," he began, his tone sincere. "I know you didn't intend for that to happen with Luffy. I was just terrified of what could happen with this many crews around."

Zoro's smile slowly returned as he considered Sanji's apology. "I suppose I could forgive you," he said, his tone softening, bringing a sense of relief to the atmosphere between them.

Zoro returned with the cigarettes just in time to see two plates filled with eggs, bacon, and rice on the table. Sanji, having finished cooking, had also brought out a bottle of Zoro's favorite drink.

"We all have our vices," Sanji remarked with a smirk, pouring a drink for both of them.

"Yeah, well, don't withhold them," Zoro teased, feeling the tension between them easing with every passing moment.