Hello readers. I know it's been a while and Just A Kiss is still hanging but currently I've lost all inspirations in continuing that story. However, I suddenly came up with this latest idea and VIOLA! I hope you guys enjoy the short story. The title sucks, I know but just bear with me aite? Forgive the OOCness - though I did try my best to reduce it- but the OOC might just suits the story line. Any grammar-nazis here? Sorry to dissapoint ya'll about my grammatical mistakes as English is not my first language but I tried. :D Anyway, enjoy the story and please review okay? Much love.

S.A

A/N: * blah blah blah* is a sign of how that character is reacting

Chapter 1

"Damnit! What is it Rona? Didn't I tell you NOT to call this number unless it's absolutely necessary? What do you mean it's necessary? What part of buying you chocolate from Punk Hazard is necessary? *grunt* Damn it Rona. Don't give me the doll eyed face. I will NOT tolerate with such attitude. *rolling his eyes in annoyance* No, I won't fall for that either. NO! Don't touch my things. I'll be coming home in a few hours or so Rona…" and the rant goes on with colorful and creative curses with his arms flailing like some kind of disturbed octopus to his beloved spoiled sister – not like she can see it but the gesture made sense – until "Ouch!" he bumped into someone else and accidentally making that person drop her coffee and book. "Oh shit! Rona, I'll get back to you later. Behave princess, bye." Tucking his phone safely into his back pocket, he quickly bend to help the stranger.

*rolling his eyes in exasperation* This is not how I plan on starting my day. First, I woke up late due to the damn hangover caused by the stupid farewell party yesterday night – oh well, I wouldn't say I regretted going anyway, the sake's great. Then, the weather woman said a storm might hit Punk Hazard and the probability of my flight getting delayed is mostly high. Why am I rushing to go back to Kuraigana again? Oh yes, *sighing in defeat* that is where annoying reason number three comes in. My oh-so-precious little sister have been bugging me to go back because she's currently on semester break and she, being the anti-social girl she always was doesn't even have any NORMAL friends to bug. Sigh, why am I getting so worked up about my disaster of a day again? Oh yeah, it's because – I seriously think I recently pissed one of the deity even if I don't believe in them - from reason number one to number three, my current situation is by far the worst. I was so engrossed with my phone that I didn't even notice my surrounding. I should really stop babbling in my head and start helping the lady stand.

"I am so sorry Miss. I wasn't paying attention to my surroundings that…" *abruptly stop talking once their eyes met* I was sure I was trying to explain myself. What the heck am I trying to mumble about again? Oh shit, now that I got a better look at her, she's damn gorgeous. *suddenly blushing and stop making eye contact* Damn, Zoro stop leering at her. She'll think you're a creep. You're an honorable man – not like a certain curly brow blond – and you shouldn't leer at a stranger like that – no matter how attractive that stranger may be. "Yeah, I am so sorry again Miss." I said as I finally helped her stand again.

"Excuse me, I think you can let go of my hands now Mister." She said accompanying with the most beautiful giggle sound I've ever heard. It's soft and cute. Oh shit, stop staying off track. I didn't even realize I haven't let her go yet. Calm down, breathe in breathe out. Yes, that's better. Taking off his hands from her awkwardly, he absentmindedly scratch the back of his neck to brush out the nervous feeling bubbling up within him.

"Oh, I am sorry. I didn't mean to… you know… yeah" yup, there goes my so-called calm explanation. Damn, I was never good at this. There are times when I wish I could just vanish in thin air, well this is one of those times. "Oh no, it's okay. You must be distracted by something important that you didn't notice your surroundings. *gives her trademark warm smile* It was partially my fault as well. I shouldn't be reading something while walking – especially since I was holding a cup of hot black coffee." She explains herself, the smile never ceased from her face.

After a few minutes of uncomfortable silence later, the lady clears her throat to get the distracted man's attention. "I think I should be going now. Sorry again for the mishap just now." She was ready to leave before the green-headed man finally speaks up. "Hey, Miss. *reluctant, blushing, eyes darting around his surroundings as long as it didn't focus on her* is it okay if I buy you another cup of coffee? That is, if you're not in a hurry or some sort. You know, to replace the one I accidentally make you spill?" The woman in question looks at him with a calm yet calculative air surrounding her. Oh man, I really should've let her go just now. I have no idea why that offer seems logical enough in my head before my currently loud mouth blurt it out. I am a stranger, obviously she's not going to accept the offer. "Sure, I don't see why I should decline such an irresistible treat." She said with that warm smile again. *puff out air of relief* Well, that's a relief. At least she didn't turn it down as I expected.

"Really? That's great." *keep on scratching his head to reduce his nervousness* Yup, I should really let her go and mind my own business just now. Again, I really shouldn't act so friendly towards a woman stranger since that's my weakest trait. Sigh. Why bother. What's done is done. Let's just get it over with already.

"If you don't mind, I wish to check on my flight's schedule first before moving on with your offer. Then, I think I might need to excuse myself to the ladies for a bit. I will need to change into something unstained other than this." She said while showing her now coffee stained purple dress.

"Yeah, yeah. Sure. I was about to check on my schedule as well." He said, the faint tint of blush never leaving his olive tan skin. And so, they walk to the airport's main hall in silent. As he suspected, because of the unnatural blizzard currently occurring, almost all of the flights – be it departure from Punk Hazard or arrival from somewhere else - are delayed until further notice.

"Hmm. It looks like it can't be helped then. Is your flight delay too, Mister?" she asked, tilting her head a bit. "Yeah, it's delayed. From what the weather girl reported earlier, this blizzard will be on for a while. I guess we have time to spare, huh?" I tried smiling normally but somehow I feel that smile turns into a weird angled crooked line. She covers her mouth and giggles softly behind her hand. Such a poise woman.

"Yes, Mister. I am sure we have time to spare. Please excuse me for a while." She said as she starts walking to the ladies. I finally let out the breath I didn't notice I've been holding.

About fifteen or so minutes later, she showed up again wearing an ankle length floral printed dress combined with a white faux fur collar slim fit leather jacket. A black shades with white beanie on her head. A simple yet elegant appearance. I doubt she even needs any make up on her face. She's just naturally beautiful.

I didn't even notice I was ogling at her until she clears her throat. She giggles again before asking if I was ready to go. "Yeah, let's go." I said awkwardly, trying to suppress my embarrassment. After a few minutes of walking, "Hey, Miss. I am not really a fan of caffeinated drinks so if you have any suggestions, please lead the way." I voice up, not wanting the air to be unpleasant again. She hums in reply, and starts leading me to a rather vintage style café on the top floor of the airport.

The interior of the café features reclaimed salvaged fittings, paneled walls and a few antique decoration here and there. They even combine a few contemporary elements to create a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere for the customers. It is a rather modest café to say the least. As we enter the café, a cheer call of "Hello! Welcome to Van De Peer Café!" welcomed us.

She leads me straight to the counter to place our order. "Hello Ma'am, Sir. Welcome to Van De Peer Café. How may we delight you today?" a rather tall and lanky casher inquire us. "I'd like to have a cup of hot black coffee, two cube of sugar with no cream." After placing her order, she looks at me expectantly. "Ermn, I'll just have whatever she have." The casher keyed in our order before inquiring again, "Would you folks like to try our signature sandwich special? We have an offer of 50% discount for those buying two coffees." I am rather hungry since I skipped breakfast this morning. "Sure." The casher continued keying in our order. I bring out my card and paid for the order before the lady pick us a rather secluded table in the café.

As we were walking to our table, the beautiful lady was stopped by a group of enthusiastic teenage girls excitedly asking if they can take a picture and have the lady's autographs. She didn't seem to mind the attention though as she kind heartedly agree to their requests. A shout of "Oh My GOD! I have a picture with Nico!" "She is super beautiful in real life" "Ahhhh! I don't wanna wash my clothes. She smells like a walking flower!" "Oh my! She's skinny and tall and looks healthy. How can I be like her?!" and the list goes on for a few minutes until the group of girls thank the lady and walks away, happily.

As we finally make ourselves comfortable on the cushioned seat, one of the waitress bring out our orders and request to take a picture with the lady – again – and asked for her autographs. "Miss Nico, is it okay if we take a group photo with you? We'd like to hang it on our wall of fame so that customers know even famous people come to our café to enjoy a relaxing coffee." The lady just smile at the request and agree to it. After taking a few shots and dropping her autographs, we were finally left alone to enjoy our drink and sandwich - for my case.

I start munching on my Cuban sandwich as she sips on her drink. "I am sorry for the continuous interruptions, Mister…" she trailed off – eyes looking questioningly at me. I swallowed my food – apparently too quickly – and choked myself. She passed me a bottle of water. I grabbed the water and drink it to ease the pain. "Thank you. It's Zoro. Sorry about that." She chuckles behind her hand again before taking the water bottle from me. "Yes, Mr. Zoro. Again, sorry for the continuous interruptions. I thought for sure I've made myself invincible for the public eye to recognize. I guess I wasn't quite right." After swallowing my last bite, I look into her dazzling azure eyes. I couldn't help but think they somehow resembles the diamonds that continuously shines in the dark night sky.

I cleared my throat, "Hmm. It's no problem. However, may I ask as to why people recognize you?" I look at her face, trying to recall in my memories as to why the public knows her so much. Is she an actress or something? How come nothing clicks in my head? Ah well, knowing the celebrities aren't really my expertise. That's Franky, Brook and stupid curly brow's thing.

After sipping her hot coffee, she puts her hands on the table, chin resting on her palms – in a chin stroking gesture – as if contemplating on how to answer my question. Her dazzling azure eyes stare into my sharp golden pair before a sweet smile spread on her beautiful face. "It seems that the entertainment world is not to your interest, Mr. Zoro. I assure you that I am not someone you'd find interest in. Just another normal human being in this not so normal world." I hum in understanding. She is somehow correct in her statement. Even if she is someone well-known in the entertainment industry, it wouldn't do her good if I've never heard of it. So why waste time in explaining things that doesn't interest the other?

"Fair enough. I may say it is rather intriguing to say the least, seeing I am sitting with a well-known person. Who knows what the tabloid might publish if they caught you with a no body as me? It might tarnish your reputation, Miss…"

"Oh, it's Robin. Nico Robin."

"Yes, Miss Robin."

She hums, considering my question. Her hand mindlessly play with the teaspoon in her cup. "Well, I am not the type to really care on my reputation. It is the paparazzi job to tarnish and create haywire in the entertainment's industry. As someone from the industry, I learned that as long as I am my own person, whatever they may publish wouldn't affect me that much." After saying that, she looks at me again – as if studying my features – before sipping on her coffee.

"Well, if you say so. Anyway, the sandwich is good. Even the coffee is refreshing. Do you come here often?"

"This is the first time I come to this branch. I usually go to their branch located in Dressrosa since I am currently working there. It is nice, isn't it? Even the atmosphere is nice and not crowded."

I nod my agreement. I called the waitress to order another set of sandwich and Robin ordered some scones for herself. "Where are you heading to, Mr. Zoro?" she suddenly asked after a few moments of silence.

"Me? I am heading to Kuraigana. You?"

"Ah, Kuraigana City? Such a unique country. I am heading to Ohara." She replied, after sipping her coffee.

"Oh, you've been to Kuraigana?" I asked, curious as to what business does she have in my country.

She nods in answering my question. "I went there a couple of years back for a photoshoot session. That time, we had this big project for Vague magazine. The Autumn copy was themed based on Halloween season, if I recall correctly. Since Kuraigana is famous for their unique way in celebrating Halloween, my agent suggested we use that city for a more realistic background and atmosphere. Stayed there for nearly two months I think. I enjoyed each and every day being there." She explained to me. A warm reminiscing smile spread across her face proving how she really felt about Kuraigana.

I hum in understanding. Not many people comes to my country unless if it's for business related or like she said; Halloween month. People find Kuraigana a rather odd and quiet country. Even though we are amongst the developed country; since we are specialized in making weaponry – swords in particular – people still don't find Kuraigana as amusing or fun as others like Dressrosa or Fishman. I guess this lady fell in love with the quiet part of Kuraigana. "If I deduce right, from the way you're saying it, you must be a model, correct?" I asked after the waitress from earlier deliver our orders.

She looks at me again, a small smile spread across her face. "Yes, you are correct, Mr. Zoro. I am currently a part time model for Allé."

"Oh? A part time? I never knew a part time model can be as well-known as you. People must've like you for some reason then." I asked, shrugging as I start eating my sandwich.

She giggles at my statement. I don't know what I said to be regard as funny though. I look questioningly at her as she stopped giggling. "Well, I wouldn't say people KNOW or LIKE me because I was a part time model though. Technically, before I pledge to be a full time archaeologist, I was a full time model for a few fashion magazine. You can say it is only for the fun of it. After I finish my doctorate last year, I stopped being a full time and decides to be a freelance instead. Taking a few minor projects here and there. Just to keep myself occupied." I just nod in understanding. No wonder she's beautiful, a model. Not just A model, an archeologist as well. The very definition of beauty with brain. I like her already. Without me realizing, a small smirk spread across my face.

"Did I say something that peeked your amusement, Mr. Zoro?" she asked as she suddenly leans forward and, "You left quite a trail of ketchup on your face, Mr. Zoro" she said seductively as she wipe the edge of my lips with a napkin. After wiping my face, she leans back on her seat, a satisfied smile on her face as she cross her arms on her front.

I was left dumbfounded. Was she trying to hit on me? Was she that close to my face just now? Damn she smells good, like a real life flower. I feel my face heating up, oh no. Don't tell me I am all red now. I quickly put down the sandwich from my hands, wiping my suddenly sweaty face with the napkin and clears my throat – a gesture I found to ease myself whenever I feel embarrass.

She chuckled teasingly at me. "You are such a funny man, Mr. Zoro. You look oddly charming whenever you're embarrass. *keeps on giggling* I am sorry. I was just messing with you." She continues giggling at me for a good five minutes.

"Damn woman, playing at me like that." *pouted comically without him realizing* I grunt out my annoyance – more like embarrassment. Hearing me say that, she laughs at me again. "You really are an amusing man, Mr. Zoro. Anyway, mind sharing why you were so distracted earlier?" she asked, a glint of curiosity in her azure eyes as she starts eating her scones.

"Ah, it's nothing important really. I came to Punk Hazard for a business trip last two weeks. I was supposed to go back with my friends to Raftel in a few days to settle a few more things there until my spoiled little sister kept on bugging me for almost a week now asking when am I going back to Kuraigana. You see, she's a little different than other teens. She doesn't make friends that easily and since she doesn't have anyone else to bug, she feels like it's her responsibility to annoy me until I submit myself to her demands." I explained to her. I am not the type of person to whine about my personal life – especially towards a stranger - but somehow I feel like sharing with someone and since she kinda showed concerns and curiosity I figured why not just let it out.

"Hmm, interesting little sister you have there. How old is she? Does she contact you constantly whenever you're outstation?"

"She is 19 this year. Having her semester break or something like that. No, she only contacts me whenever she is at home. She's currently studying at Thriller Bark University."

"Ah, I see. It's good to hear you care so much about your sister. You're such an adorable big brother." She said with a big smile.

I just grunt in response. It's really awkward when someone; especially a woman, says that I look adorable. I am known for being an emotionless and stoic faced man. People don't approach me like they approach Luffy or the stupid dartboard. Ah well, she is sorta weird for a woman. "What were you reading just now? You know, before I bumped into you." I asked after I took another bite of my sandwich.

"I was reading a novel about the History of the Pirate King. I don't always fancy the Pirate Era in general but that novel distinctiveness caught my attention enough for me to keep on reading even while walking at that time." She started explaining on how the Pirate Era begins, how the war erupt between the government and the revolutionaries at the time and so much more. I was astonish by the vast amount of knowledge she acquires. I don't usually listen to women rant on about anything but listening to her talk about the history really caught my interest. History have to be the most boring subject to talk about but she makes it sound like a walking story book. Her smile of passion never ceased from her soft features.

We spent almost half a day in the café, talking, laughing and teasing each other. There are times when we just accompany each other with comfortable silence. I was never attracted to women before; I am not saying I am gay. I am as straight as a plank, thank you very much. Somehow women are just hard to handle. They are spoiled, whiney, and cranky. Not to mention the forever mood swings they have where I can NEVER keep up with. It's already a handful just keeping myself sane from my little sister's unique *sense the sarcasm* personality. This woman however, even though I just spent a relatively few hours or so with her, she seems different. The air surrounding her is different as well. Sigh, I should really stop thinking too much about it. This is just a onetime thing. It's not like she's interested in me to begin with. I am sure she have so many other choices of men, lining up to please her; like the stupid curly brow.

Suddenly, a song from the 90s play. "Oh, sorry about that. Do you mind?" she asked, guilt across her face. "Oh no, go ahead." She flash me an appreciative smile before moving away to answer the call. I decided to check on my phone as well; since I've been ignoring the never-ending vibrates since I started hanging out with Robin. The texts are mostly from the guys, business partners and few hundred of them are from Perona. I cringe at the notification. Sigh, why am I even shocked. It's Perona, she is the only one crazy enough to send a couple of hundred texts in a few hours' time. I check her text; one by one, so that I don't miss anything important. Ah well, they're mostly threats on rummaging my room; nothing new. She also sent a few pictures of chocolates and souvenirs she wants from Punk Hazard. I replied with an 'Alright, I'll get them for you if you promise not to touch my things. I'll see you in a bit. Currently stuck in Punk Hazard due to bad weather. Take care, princess. I love you'. She replies within a minute, 'Thanks Ronoa. You're such an angel. I promise I'll behave. I love you too.' She can be adorable at times; scary and not to mention annoying, but still adorable. A small smile tug on the edge of my lips without me realizing it.

After a few more minutes of scrolling my phone, replying business related email here and there, Robin finally finished her phone call. "Hey, sorry about that. A friend called, she wanted to share some good news. Since she couldn't wait, she decided to call me instead." She explained, that enchanting smile of hers never leaving her beautiful face.

"It's okay. Anyway, I think I should make a move now. I have to stop by some shops before going back." I said, reluctantly. I never wanted this meeting to be our last but I don't have the guts to ask for her contact number. She seems unhappy about it either.

After a few minutes of silence, "Ermn, mind if I accompany you, Mr. Zoro? I think I have an hour or so to spare before I board my plane." She asked, expectantly. With that statement being said, all the negative air surrounding us vanish.

I can feel a genuine happy smile spread across my face. "Sure, I'd love that." After making sure all our belongings are taken, we walk out of the café.