Thank you so much for reading my story. I would like to say thanks to 12, Alechan11, destinymichaelis321 and Megehehason ZOSAN LAWLU LOVER for leaving lovely comments. They are much appreciated and really make my day. Also thanks to everyone who followed and left favs. If you would like me to continue with this let me know I have a few ideas. Thanks for reading please enjoy J
Surprise part 2
6 Months 4 Days old
Baby Ren sat on the floor playing with a toy boat by his daddy's feet as Sanji folded the clean clothes singing as he went. Ren would look up and babble along at times with him.
It had been a challenging time initially for a bunch of men who knew nothing about children, Sanji more than anyone. The new dad had his stride now. He knew he would have many challenges ahead but looked forward to it.
Sanji noticed early on that his son watched everything he did with those grey eyes so much like his father. Sanji took Ren everywhere after that. He would put his son propped up in his highchair in the kitchen as he cooked explaining the steps and ingredients. When he trained he put the boy on the couch to watch. Ren would giggle, clap his hands, kick his feet and babble constantly. He had already said "da da" which thrilled Sanji to no end.
Ren's room had all the bounty posters of the Strawhats as well as cut outs from newspapers. Sanji wished he had proper pictures but he wanted him to be familiar with their faces so he used what he had. At every downtime he would tell Ren a Strawhat story or a story just about Zoro. He made sure his son knew all about his father Zoro. At night he would tell him stories of All Blue and old sailor tales that Zeff told him.
Kureha had stayed at the Baratie she told Sanji it was to watch over Ren which he partially believed but he knew it was also because how close her and Zeff got. She kept busy treating those returning from the Grand Line or the staff's injuries.
There were a few concerns when it came to Ren. After he was born he grew in size and height faster than he should. At four months formula no longer was enough to keep him full. He started crawling early and was close to walking. Kureha had shared her concern that he might be aging faster instead of just developing faster. As far as anyone knew he was one of a kind and his unusual conception and birth could cause issues for him. Sanji didn't care he would do anything for his baby boy and if he didn't have the long life Sanji hoped for him then his proud father was okay with that because he was determined to give him a full life.
As Sanji finished folding the clothes he stood seeing Ren still occupied with his toy boat and stepped out on the balcony closing the glass door behind him. He pulled a cigarette from his stash outside and lit up. Ren crawled over and put his hands on the glass looking as Sanji made funny faces to him. The new dad turned at the sound of a mail bird. The bird landed on the railing as Sanji pulled what was in his mail sack then the bird took off again. Sanji put out his cigarette and stepped back inside. There was the newspaper but nothing regarding his nakama inside. He walked over and sat that on the table. He saw there was a package addressed to "Curly" so he opened that.
Inside the package he saw letters from his nakama. A large envelope from "Pinky" Chopper was filled with information on Lupus. He felt bad at the amount of information Chopper had hand written for him. "Super" Franky and "Skull" Brook had composed a get well song and included that in the package telling him he could use it on any instrument. The girls had written carefully worded letters about their adventures never giving enough information away but telling him they missed him. "Stormy" Nami said "Sword Boy" had been surly and gruff since he left. Sanji wasn't sure if that was a change or not. "Cap" Luffy and "Plant Guy" Usopp both made get well cards. Sanji thought Ren could have made the one Luffy made. "Cap" did complain that he was so hungry all the time and Nami was trying to kill him with her cooking. "Fishy" Jinbei sent him something really nice it was a letter stating how much he realized Sanji affected the crew. It had been over a year now and they were still off kilter apparently. "Sword Boy" his Marimo sent him a sweet letter. There were a lot of playful insults and curse words but intermittent words of love and devotion. He would write back to them hoping it would find its way but in the meantime he would call them.
Sanji failed to notice he had been pacing back and forth as he read. He failed to notice Ren trying to keep pace with him and getting frustrated that he couldn't until he felt a hand on the knee of his black dress pants and looked down to see Ren standing. He did realize what a momentous occasion this was because he didn't feel Ren pulling himself up so that meant the baby walked to him. His little boy took his first steps and he missed it. He was a bit bummed but reached down and picked his son up cooing about how amazing the boy was to be walking already.
1 Year Old
The Baratie had been closed for the day for Ren's birthday party. The entire staff had gone all out decorating and making the little's boys favorite foods. A pile of presents sat in a corner waiting to be opened.
Sanji brushed his black dyed hair from his face as he made a cake specifically for Ren to devour and no doubt play with. He had made a single layer strawberry cake with whipped cream frosting designed to look like waves in different hues of blue. He knew Ren would just dig in and not take time to look at it at least not yet. He had eating habits like Luffy in ways just stuffing food in his mouth so he could run off and play more. There were certain foods he would grin widely over when put in front of him and take his time with but right now to him food was just a time out from play time.
Ren came careening around the corner and plowed into Sanji's leg. He didn't catch much of what the boy said between laughter but he did catch "Boompa" and "ball." Sanji loved the nickname Ren gave Zeff. Around the corner came Boompa Zeff and Boomma Kureha laughing at the little boy's antics. Zeff was lightly kicking a ball to him while they were finishing the food and Ren caught it just right and kicked it clear across the room much to everyone's amazement.
After food and cake came presents and Sanji rolled his eyes as Patty and Carne thought it would be a great idea to get him a shinai. It was probably the smallest made but still was about as tall as Ren. "Idiots." Sanji said. It didn't stop Ren from squealing in delight and hugging the two then promptly hitting their shins with it as he swung it playfully.
Sanji knew Ren's eyes would light up whenever they passed the dojos in the nearby islands. The little boy would point and say "daddy." Sanji knew he meant Zoro because every picture that was in the papers had Zoro with at least one sword in hand. Ren didn't quite understand who Zoro was to him just that he was important and part of him wanted to be like Zoro. The rest of the presents were opened and someone bought him a little suit to match Sanji. His son was happy saying that he could "look like daddy." Sanji thought he would look handsome and be a hit with the ladies.
Later that night after Ren had gone to sleep Sanji had called the Sunny and spoke with everyone. Luffy whined for him to come home telling him he promised. He made excuses of Zeff's fake illness and for now it was bought by most. He spoke with Zoro alone for a while missing him. It was one more anniversary apart for them. Zoro was a little whiney which was surprising for Sanji. His Marimo was missing him too. Last year he had cried for Zoro this year it was Zoro doing it for him. It broke his heart having to lie to him. They ended the call both with heavy hearts. Sanji knew the others would take care of Zoro for him.
He lay in bed after he trudged up the stairs thinking of his Marimo. He was reassured he was doing the right thing by the soft snores of their son in his nearby crib. He thought Ren may ask one day how their relationship started and he would have to leave a lot out because it started with a literal dick measuring contest.
They had been fighting the constant competitiveness and testosterone filling the air. After the two year's apart Nami wasn't up for the renewed fighting so in an off hand remark they found themselves in the bathroom comparing sizes. Of course they both had to be hard for accurate measurement. Then they reached over to the other checking girth and things took off from there. They lied to themselves saying it was just for stress relief but they couldn't deny the magnetism.
Eventually they gave up the pretenses and had to admit they loved each other. That they had formed a deep emotional bond they had with no one else. Robin found out about their physical relationship due to curiosity. They had been disappearing off and on for long periods of time and placed and ear on Zoro's green robe. It didn't take long for her to figure out what was going on. Usopp found out it went much deeper when he went to relieve Zoro of night watch and found Zoro sitting on one of the benches with Sanji in his lap asleep both fully dressed. The gentleness that the swordsman was showing was proof enough that it was more than physical. Franky had promptly made a double bunk and they slept together after that until he had to leave.
Sanji missed everything about Zoro.
2 Years and 4 Months old
Ren had become a big kid. Anytime Sanji took him out to the dinning floor or to a neighboring island he was reminded of that. People would ask how old he was and Sanji would tell them only to get the surprised and sometimes unbelieving looks. In comparison to other kids he was the size of a four year old.
He was also really smart much to Sanji displeasure at times. Ren asked questions almost non stop but actually paid attention to his answers. He also knew who Zoro was and what he meant to him. It had been hard to explain why he didn't have a mommy like other kids he met but two daddies. Ren had also started wanting to meet the man as well as the other Strawhats. It had started out as a simple request but he was getting more and more impatient. That was the only thing Ren ever fought him on.
Sanji called the Sunny after he put his son to sleep. The Strawhats were having dinner when he called so they put the den den mushi on the table so he could feel like he was there. He smiled and laughed along with them. He loved and missed his nakama. They were amazing people.
As the meal was ending Zoro picked up the den den mushi and stood away from the others. "Curly when are you coming back? Cap whines all the time he says he misses your cooking."
Sanji felt awful it was years of lying to people that meant the world to him. And more than anything he hated lying to his Marimo. "I Know. It won't be much longer some asshole crashed his ship into the place. I have to get that repaired."
Zoro let out a frustrated sigh. "It's excuse after excuse with you. I know the old man means a lot to you. It just feels like you're not coming back."
That hurt Sanji. If only the man he loved understood everything but because of his choice Zoro didn't. "I promise I will my love."
"Alright." Zoro said. "The girls wanted to talk to you next."
Ah his beautiful angels. "Ok. I love you."
"I love you too." He could hear Zoro pass the mushi off. It was still loud in the galley but he could hear the lovely ladies greeting him.
"Curly." Sanji heard the serious tone in Robin-chwan's voice he wasn't sure what she had to say. "We know the reason why you left is not why you have stayed away."
He laughed nervously. "I don't know what you mean."
"Curly-kun." Oh no Nami-swan's sing song sickly sweet voice. He was done for. "You wouldn't lie to your angels would you? We only want to know what is going on. We won't tell the others."
Sanji banged his head against the wall reminding himself to fight the urge to do as they asked. "I'm sorry my sweets but it is for the old man."
Ren came running up to Sanji carrying his stuffed whale plush. "Daddy! Daddy!"
"Who's that?" Nami sharply asked.
Sanji quickly turned away from his son. "He's one of the customer's kids. I have to go. Bye." He hung up and turned to see the hurt expression. He little's boy's eyes filled with unshed tears. Ren's bottom lip trembled as he held back from crying then took off running upstairs.
The dad knew he messed up seriously. He ran up the stairs and went in Ren's room. He passed a pissed Zeff on his way. Ren was buried under his blankets his muffled voice came out. "Go away Daddy."
Sanji lay down on the bed behind Ren and pulled his blanket clad son to him. He pushed the blanket down to see the broken expression on his precious boy's face. He kissed him on the head in his soft green hair. "I'm sorry Ren. I had to tell them that. You know I can't tell them about you yet."
"It's because Dad and our nakama won't like me right?" Tears leaked from Ren's eyes and he furiously wiped them away.
He held his son tighter. "If I told Dad he would tell our nakama and they would hurry here just to see you. Dad will love you so much."
His son nodded. "I want to see Dad."
"I know." Sanji ruffled the boy's hair. "You're too little still. It's dangerous out there on the seas. I can't lose you."
2 Years and 4 Months old
Two days later Sanji was a wreck. He had to see what the girls knew or if they said anything to the others especially Zoro. He had tried calling a few times but no one answered. Either they were mad at him or off on an adventure and knowing Luffy adventure was always around the corner.
After waking and making sure Ren was still asleep he went downstairs. He called the Sunny and waited. Nami-swan answered. "Is this Curly?"
"Yes my lady it is." Sanji replied with as much sweetness as he could muster.
"Don't worry idiot. Bookey and me still don't know what you are up to but is seems important and we do trust you." Then Nami-swan's voice took on that hard edge right before she hurt someone. "If you had a child with some girl or were unfaithful to Sword Boy in any way I will take one of his swords and shove it so far up your ass it will come out your mouth."
That was an image Sanji didn't want but at least he could tell the truth. "I promise my dove I have never done nor ever will do such a thing."
"Ok." She had her happy cheerful tone back. "We have had a lot going on lately. We ran into a man with piercing eyes that left something permanent years ago on Sword Boy." Sanji knew she could only be talking about Mihawk. "Both men seem to think it's time and they will be fighting in a week."
"Oh." Sanji knew this day would come and he had faith in Zoro but to not be there supporting him was a huge weight on his chest. And what if the worst happened? Zoro would die without ever knowing he had a son and his son would only have stories not memories.
He had apparently stayed silent for quite some time enough to make Nami speak out. "He's strong and ready. The Eye guy challenged him. I think he deems Sword Boy ready too otherwise he wouldn't have done that."
"Yeah." Sanji said a bit uncertainly.
"He's been training more since we ran into him and meditating and Pinky is making sure his health is good and we are all pitching in to make sure he eats right. Super, Cap and Skull have been sparing with him too. He'll win you know this."
He then heard loud booming laughter from his Marimo as he must have just walked through the door. Zoro was happier than he had heard him in a long time. "Is that Curly? Did you tell him?"
"Yeah I did." Nami said.
"You'll be the best. The Greatest! The heavens will know your name! I'm so proud of you. She's so proud of you." Sanji didn't have to say Kuina's name for Zoro to know.
"Hell yeah I'll do it! Thanks for the support. I always thought you would be here for it." Zoro said.
Before Ren Sanji thought he would be there too. "If I could make it in time I would leave now. I wish I could see you in action. Just um try not to bleed everywhere." Sanji's way of saying be safe.
"I'll try not to. But I have the best doctor in the world here so I'll be fine." Zoro replied. Sanji could hear Chopper complaining in the background.
"Food!" He heard Luffy cry.
"We have to go. We're at an island and we're going out to eat for breakfast. Call back in 6 days in the afternoon ok?" Nami said.
"Sure." Sanji replied. "Hey Sword Boy! I love you! Go kick ass!"
Zoro chuckled. "I love you too and I will."
2 Years and 4 Months old
Six days had been hell for Sanji. And he couldn't tell Ren what was bothering him. Most of the sixth day he couldn't focus and would pick Ren up and hold him tight. His son didn't understand what was going on only that his Daddy was upset so he would hug him back and rub his back like his Daddy would do for him.
When afternoon came Sanji rushed over to the den den mushi. He already made sure Boomma had Ren outside far away so he wouldn't hear. He threatened the staff to be quiet and called with shaking hands. He almost lost it when all he heard was shouting when it was answered.
There was rustling then Usopp shouted, "He won! He won!" Cheers erupted from the staff at the good news.
All the tension Sanji felt rushed out of him. He knew Zoro was probably hurt but they wouldn't be celebrating if he was going to die. "How is Sword Boy?"
Sanji heard a growl followed by "I'm not Sword Boy anymore I'm the Greatest!"
The crew followed with laughter. "Well as you can hear he's fine. He's bloody and cut up but not worse than the first time." Usopp said.
"Babe babe you should have seen it." Sanji frowned when had Zoro ever called him babe before. "It was awesome. I was so focused. There were no wasted movements. I even took his arm. Pinky's fixing it now." Zoro sighed calming down from his high. "Babe I felt you and her with me."
"Of course we were. I know she is so proud of you right now." Sanji wished he could hug and kiss Zoro breathless.
"Yeah." Zoro started talking in the background to the others. "Sorry but they really want to party. I wish you were here to reward me but when you come back home you will owe me big time."
Sanji grinned lecherously he wished he could reward him too. "Whatever you want and as many times as you want. Now go party! I love you!"
"I love you too." Then the line went silent.
Sanji turned around fists in the air. "Yeah he's the greatest!" Shouts and whoops of joy could be heard through the entire Baratie. Sanji ran outside to Ren and picked his son up spinning him around. "Your Dad just became the World's Greatest Swordsman!"
Ren cheered and laughed at his Daddy's happiness.
The next day Sanji called and got a description of the fight from Robin with Ren sitting silently on his lap. The date and location had been set and it was agreed it would be just the two fighters as the only witness to their struggle. The crew had stayed on the Thousand Sunny watching from afar with baited breaths. To many of their surprise Perona had been on Mihawk's ship waiting for his return. . It had just been the two men meeting on a small island with ruins and amidst the destruction rose a new champion.
2 Years 5 Months Old
"Come on Daddy why can't I meet Dad now?" Ren asked for the fifth time that month.
"Because even though he reached his dream you're still too little." Sanji patted his head and walked away.
Ren huffed. "Mean."
2 Years 6 Months Old
"Look how tall I am Daddy." Ren said.
Sanji had been marking Ren's progress with little pencil marks against the doorframe. "Yes I see. You're getting so big."
Ren smiled. "So can I go see Dad now?"
Sanji sighed. "You're still too little." Zeff gave him a look. Sanji was the only one that was holding out on this everyone else pestered him to let the boy meet his father. He'd been badgered to tell Zoro and let them talk. Sanji didn't fear much but since he had his son he was worried he would be hurt physically though he knew he was hurting his son constantly by denying him the one thing he wanted most.
2 Years 8 Months Old
Ren walked around the dinning room in his little black suit carrying a basket with roses. His Daddy told him all ladies needed to be treated special. He was allowed to walk around the dinning room alone as long as there were only a few people. Each lady he saw he gave a rose with a smile and a wave.
In the back he saw a man with a huge sword next to him. He had a big hat with a feather in it and with a large cape over his shoulders. He sat alone sipping from a wine glass and looked around in interest. Ren took note that the guest were murmuring about the man. He thought he looked familiar and guessed he saw him in the newspaper. He thought the man must be important.
He walked over with his basket and began to get scared the closer he came to the man. The man's sword was much bigger than him. "Hi. Do you want a rose?"
The man's golden eyes turned to him. Ren knew he saw this man somewhere and couldn't remember. The stare scared him. The man reached out and he handed a rose over. "My Dad's a swordsman."
"Really." The man said.
Ren began to babble on in his fear. "Yes he's really good. I haven't met him but I see him in the papers a lot and everyone says he's really good. Daddy says Dad is the best and one day I can meet him and he can teach me." The boy couldn't shake the piercing look he received. "Um Dad doesn't have a big sword like you he uses three. Oh I was told not to say that. Um um I think I should go." Crap Ren thought he knew this man now. He was in big trouble.
The man took a sip of wine never taking his eyes off the boy. "My name is Dracule Mihawk what is yours?"
Ren was in huge trouble now. "Um Ren."
"And who is your Dad?" Mihawk asked. He saw so much of Roronoa in that child and from what the child said it seemed a strong probability.
Ren fiddled with the basket and used one hand to rub the back of his neck. "Daddy says I can't tell people."
"Is that so?" Mihawk found that interesting. "Can I talk to your Daddy?"
The boy let out a small sigh of relief he could leave this scary man but tensed again thinking how mad his Daddy would be. "Sure I'll go get him." Ren ran back to the kitchen. "Daddy!" When Sanji turned around the short one crooked a finger and his Daddy bent down. Ren cupped his hand over Sanji's ear and whispered, "Mihawk is here and he wants to talk to you."
"Shit." Sanji stood and took his apron off. "It's ok Ren. I'll go talk to him. You stay with Boompa." Sanji walked into the dinning room and he saw the man his lover had defeated not long ago. He pulled a bottle of the best wine they had and walked over to Mihawk.
"I was told you wanted to talk to me." Sanji said setting the bottle down.
Mihawk looked at him recognizing him immediately even though he no longer had the blond hair he knew Roronoa loved so much. "Cook."
Sanji was a little thrown. "Yes I am a cook. Chef actually."
"No, that is what he called you." Mihawk motioned to the chair in front of him and Sanji sat. "I spent two years with Roronoa and I learned much about the man. I know exactly what he looks like." Mihawk pointed to the kitchen door. "And I know he talked about you daily. So I guess I should not be surprised you are raising his child."
Sanji felt like he swallowed his tongue. Shit. He should have known Mihawk would recognize Zoro in their son. He felt the flames building within in anger that the man might hurt his boy.
Mihawk laughed. "I will not hurt him. Nor will I let the government or anyone else know of his existence. Although I will let Perona know. She will be over here with a bear costume as soon as she hears." He then became serious. "Does Roronoa know?"
"No." Sanji replied. "And thank you for not telling. I will protect my son no matter what." He smiled. "Perona-chan can dress him if she wants. Zoro told me about the bear costume and Ren always wants to do what his Dad has done."
"Who is his mother?" Mihawk asked.
Sanji debated on what to say. "It's a long story. Maybe I'll tell you one of these days but there is no mother."
"I see." Mihawk said.
"Were they able to save your arm?" Sanji asked.
Mihawk moved the cape back showing the empty space in his sleeve. "No the odd doctor tried though."
"How was Zoro after the fight?" Sanji knew he was fine now but he had been in bad shape for a few days after the initial adrenaline high and euphoria wore off.
"I landed good hits though he walked away on his own this time. He has far more reminders of me now I am certain." Mihawk looked a little wistful.
"Not that we don't appreciate your business but why are you here?" Sanji asked.
Mihawk looked reminiscent now. "To return to where it all began."
Sanji thought that was so like his Marimo. "Very poetic."
"I knew when I met him he had potential if only he could get rid of that chip on his shoulder. When Kuma sent him to my island and he subjugated himself to me asking for me to train him I knew he was on the right path. He put the safety of his crew before himself. I knew one day he could defeat me. When I saw him months ago I felt our time had come." Mihawk explained.
Yes Sanji remembered the nineteen year old teenager who was mad at the world and cocky beyond measure. And the man he had seen after two years of intense training. They still got under each others skin like no on else could and he could push Zoro's buttons in an instant. But the man was focused and devoted to his crew with a stronger faith in them as well. He still couldn't find his way on a straight path but that was beside the point. "I wish I could have been there."
"But the boy is more important." Mihawk said.
"Not more important just a different kind of importance." Sanji raised his left hand with the ring on it. "I belong to Zoro just as he belongs to me. I would do anything for him. That is why when I became – I mean Ren was born I kept it from him and the others. Their dreams are important and I wouldn't hold any of them back least of all him."
"I haven't ordered yet would you share a meal with me?" Mihawk asked.
"Certainly. What would you like?" Sanji stood to go back to the kitchen.
Mihawk looked thoughtful. "He always said anything you made was the best he ever ate so what ever you make will be good."
Sanji's Marimo never said that to him so it was nice to hear it. "I'll be right back."
Twenty minutes later he returned with sea king steaks and Ren in tow with his own plate and shinai. "Can I eat with you too?" Ren asked Mihawk.
"Yes." Mihawk watched as the little boy sat his plate on the table then put his shinai against the wall and sat down. He wanted to know more about the boy. The meal was eaten in silence as the swordsman contemplated his next move.
He thought back to the time him and Roronoa fought. After his defeat he laid on the ground as Roronoa called their doctor over. The man had dropped to his knees clutching his white sword to his chest. He had been mumbling but due to how close they were Mihawk could hear him praying to the dead girl and crying for Sanji the curly browed bastard cook.
He had been planning what to do now that he would no longer have challengers. He had also stopped working for the government as they proved to be a thorn in his side. He looked to the boy who kept eyeing him.
When the meal was done Ren asked if he could show Mihawk what he knew and then if he could show him something different. Mihawk agreed and watched as the miniature Roronoa went through a few rough katas but the boy showed promise. He decided he wanted to be there when the man met his son and in the mean time he wanted to give the child what his father received - his guidance. "I have a much bigger ship and I plan to stay in the area." Mihawk explained to Sanji. "I will teach the boy while I am here."
Sanji wasn't sure how he felt about that. Mihawk wasn't exactly a kind man or teacher for that matter. Zoro had told him of his trials. But his son looked at him with pleading eyes. "As long as you train him here then yes I agree."
"I agree to that." Mihawk replied.
"Yes! I'm gonna tell Boompa!" Ren ran to the kitchen in joy.
2 Years 9 Months Old
Mihawk had come to train Ren daily. He anchored his ship next to the Baratie and set a disciplined learning schedule that Ren followed without complaint. When he felt the child was ready he carved a bokken and gave it to him but made him do the lacquer himself.
The fear and trepidation the staff and Sanji felt had faded away as the days progressed. Ren still asked about meeting Zoro almost daily but the hurt was no longer there as Sanji kept reminding him he was too little. He would just nod and throw himself back into training. Sanji saw more of his father in him every day. He had that same determination and stubbornness like he could will himself taller if he just trained hard enough.
After training Perona would come and tackle Ren to the ground putting him in a bear costume. The little boy knew it was a lost cause but he put up a fight anyway. She had fun on the Baratie torturing the staff with negative hollows especially after one found a dreaded bug and showed it to her. She loved being pampered by Sanji. The man would wait on her hand and foot but his son always came first.
The two years Perona lived with Zoro she knew he loved Sanji even though he hadn't realized it yet. It was always a topic of conversation between them. She could see now what Zoro saw in Sanji and was glad they had gotten together though she was still puzzled about Ren's birth. She had over heard Sanji and the crazy doctor talking and from what she heard Sanji who was very much male gave birth to Ren and Zoro was the father. It was due to medical testing she knew that much and he was the only man like that. She told Mihawk who didn't seem as perplexed as she was.
She was pretty peeved Zoro didn't know about his son. She started jumping on Sanji about it and using hollows to mess with him. She could get him to do anything just by asking but not tell Zoro. Perona could see how it affected Ren as he would sit on his bed with bokken across his lap holding Zoro's bounty poster. She was going to gang up with the others and get Sanji to bend or she just might take the kid herself.
2 Years 10 Months Old
Sanji couldn't take it anymore. He was hit on all sides by people pressuring him about Zoro meeting Ren. He locked himself in his room with a pack of cigarettes and a bottle of wine and thought about it rationally.
Ren was about the size of a five year old. He had already seen fights as the Baratie had been attacked by idiots before. He had even taken a frying pan and knocked one out that was sneaking up on his Boomma. Mihawk had taken him to other island and he fought kids much bigger than himself and won. Not to mention he was smart. And oh yeah something Sanji couldn't forget that they still didn't know if Ren was developing or aging faster so he might have a shorter life span anyway. Sanji also knew that the crew was chomping at the bit for the truth. No one really believed him anymore just some were willing to pretend they did.
Sanji had felt like he was losing Zoro by keeping this from him and hurting his son too. He was hurting everyone by doing this. Sanji stood knowing what to do now. Mihawk had told him before he would take the two of them to find Zoro so Sanji walked with purpose downstairs and to the training ground Mihawk had set up. Ren and the swordsman were there going through moves. "Does the offer still stand?" Sanji asked.
Mihawk stopped. "Yes it does."
"Good." Sanji said. "Then tomorrow we can set out to find Zoro. Ren you're meeting your father."
Sanji saw tears pour from his son's eyes. It was the only thing he ever really wanted and he was finally giving it to him. Sanji crouched down next to him hugging him. "You're not so little anymore. Your Dad is going to love you as will your aunties and uncles." Ren just nodded.
Sanji stood went back inside and walked to the den den mushi. He called the Sunny and waited. It was answered by his captain. "Hello."
"It's me Curly. Stay where you are if you can. I'm coming to find you." Sanji said.
"Yosh!" Luffy cried. The line then went dead and Sanji explained to Zeff and Kureha then began to pack.
3 Years Old
It had been an odd birthday party for Ren on board Mihawk's ship. All Sanji could do was make a fun meal with a cake but since they set sail his son had grinned almost the entire time even after he realized how long it would take.
The sailing had been relatively smooth just a few things here and there that the Grand Line offered. Ren had been impressed with everything he saw. When they were foolishly attacked by a bunch of idiot pirates Sanji fought them by himself and sunk their ship. It was nice for him to fight again and to show off for his son.
After Ren's birth he kept up his training because he knew he would one day return to the pirate life. Sanji had always felt equal with Zoro before and he didn't want to return and find out he was behind him. He also had to be stronger than ever to protect their son.
Sanji had been very surprised by the people who came with them. He thought it would be just Mihawk, him and Ren but no Boompa Zeff, Boomma Kureha and Auntie Ona also known as Perona came as well.
Boompa Zeff coming was a big shocker. Sanji never thought he would leave the Baratie. But at the same time Sanji should have known he would come. The Old Man loved that little boy with all he had. And if and Sanji was quite certain it would happen he and Ren stayed with the Strawhats then Zeff would have to be there to see them off.
Boomma Kureha went to give their medical history to Chopper. She also wanted to see how he was doing. She had heard the stories but she wanted to see what he had done for himself. She knew all the traveling would expand his knowledge.
Perona came for a number of reasons. She wanted to see Zoro when he saw his son for the first time. She knew Zoro would be confused as she still was but at the same time there was no denying who that boy belonged to. If for some reason Zoro denied him she would terrorize him again. Plus when things worked out she had a Zoro bear costume too. Just the thought of a cute Dad and baby bear had her going.
Sanji missed not talking to his Marimo on their anniversary but he knew he would see him and soon. He had no idea what to say or even how to begin. He held the vivre card in his hand feeling it guide him to Zoro.
3 Years 4 Months Old
Sanji had been out on deck in the early morning smoking. He had been smoking more the closer they got. He knew Zoro would be pissed. Pissed he could take but Zoro would probably hate him for what he did. He knew it would take a long time to salvage their relationship if he could.
He kept looking out over the waters with the vivre card in his hand. It kept pulling in their heading. In the distance he caught sight of a ship. He pulled out a scope and confirmed it was the Thousand Sunny. "Shit." He wasn't ready for this.
As they neared he went below deck and showered and made Ren wash. Sanji put on his best black suit with gold buttons and a blue shirt that made his eyes pop. He added a black tie, brushed his hair then trimmed his goatee and was as ready as he could be. He knew he would look different to them as his hair was still dyed black and he had become a bit more muscular but they would recognize him. He wondered how they had changed.
Ren dressed in black pants and a white shirt. He wanted to look as much like his Dad as possible. He brushed his short light green hair and attached his bokken to his hip. The smile he wore matched Uncle Luffy's pictures. He couldn't wait.
Sanji came over to his son. "I want you to wait until I get to talk to them ok?"
Ren's smile faded some. "Ok."
Sanji went out on deck with Perona and Mihawk and the large vessel was pulled up along the Sunny. He started waving and calling out to his nakama. They looked back with confusion. He knew it was odd he was with Mihawk of all people and a lot of explaining was due. "I hitched a ride." He explained.
Seeming to explain it all Franky attached a ramp to the two ships. The ghost girl and swordsman stayed back but Sanji took a step forward then gained momentum walking across the ramp. He stepped down into the grass and saw that the Sunny had been changed and modified. She was bigger and better than before. He could smell the familiar scent of home.
Sanji took in his crew. The girls, Brook and Jinbei hadn't changed much. Chopper somehow became even more adorable. Franky had a few more additions. Luffy and Usopp looked more muscular with a few new scars added. But his Zoro had changed the most. He was broader of shoulder, had muscles upon muscles and his chest and arms were covered in deep scars undoubtedly from his fight with Mihawk.
The crew was still on edge given where he came from. "Hello my beautiful flowers you are looking more radiant than ever. Marimo." Sanji sighed. "You look so handsome."
Zoro blushed a light pink behind his tan. Sanji had changed. Their distance had made them each more open and affectionate in words. He liked Sanji's black hair but he missed the blond locks he used to run his fingers through.
Neither side really knew what to say next. If he didn't have Mihawk at his back Sanji knew Luffy and the others would be jumping all over him but he did so they held back. Now seemed as good as any to reveal the truth of his absence. "I lied to you all those years ago when I left. I had to leave for a good reason. It's hard to explain so I'll just show you." He turned back and yelled. "Ren!"
The nine Strawhats saw a little boy emerge from the imposing ship to stand by Sanji's side clasping his hand. They stared in slack jawed wonder at the light green hair with golden highlights in the sun, grey piercing eyes and slightly curled eyebrow of the boy. He looked like a miniature version of their swordsman with a bokken strapped to his side. No one was more blown away than Zoro.
Nami found her voice first. "Sanji-kun why do you have a mini Zoro?"
Sanji chuckled nervously. "Hee Hee surprise." He looked on in horror as Zoro strode away to what he assumed was the boy's bunk without a word.
Ren looked up. "Daddy does that mean Dad doesn't like me?"
He held his son's hand tighter looking down at him then staring back at the door willing Zoro to come back out. "No I just have to explain things first."
The atmosphere was unbelievably tense. No one knew how this could be happening and was lost in thought until Zoro reemerged. He had a picture in one hand and strode over to the boy kneeling down. He held up the picture of him and Kuina when he was little. It took his breath away how much the child was his duplicate. He heard gasps from his nakama behind him as they saw what he saw.
Zoro looked up to his lover's visible eye. He didn't understand how it happened as he had only been with Sanji who he knew for a fact was a man. The pleading look he saw in his beloved's face told him it was true as unfathomable as it was, it was true. The World's Greatest Swordsman choked back a sob as he pulled the boy into a tight hug. He could feel little hands at the back of his neck and the sigh of relief at acceptance.
He felt heartbroken to know something so precious had been kept from him. Zoro stood with Ren in his arms looking at Sanji trying to express the pain and betrayal he felt. He took his son in to the galley to be alone with him.
Outside Sanji panicked what was Zoro going to do. He was stopped midstride to the galley by Robin's many arms. "I will keep an eye on them." She said.
"Thank you Robin-chwan." Sanji bowed his head. He was not prepared for the rubber punch he received to the face followed by rubbery limbs wrapping around him knocking him to the deck.
"You should have stayed!" Luffy sobbed. That broke the tension and everyone on deck broke into tears. Robin stayed watching both the galley and what was going on deck but the rest piled on top. Sanji received punches amidst the tears. It was how his nakama expressed themselves. He knew he would be forgiven.
Inside the galley Zoro had sat the little boy sat down on the table. "What's your name?"
"Ren."
"It means lotus or love right?" Zoro asked.
"Right. Daddy said he named me that because I was made from love." Ren explained.
Zoro slumped on the bench. He took in the features of his son. He wished he knew about him. He wished Sanji had told him. He had a million questions rolling around his head but those could wait. He held the little hands in his own large calloused ones and looked into grey eyes. "It's true. Me and your Daddy love each other very much."
"Then don't be mad at him Dad. Daddy said we couldn't tell you because you had your dream and I was too little to be out here but now I'm big and you beat Uncle Mihawk." Ren said.
Uncle Mihawk huh? Zoro rolled that one around and filed it away for further explanation. He bowed his head forehead touching the back of his hands still holding Ren's hands. "I'm sorry I didn't know." He began to cry at the heartache of all those years lost. "I'm sorry."
A little head rested against his. "It's ok Dad. I love you."
The meetings and reunions had been a tearful event. Chopper had been ecstatic to see his Doctorine with those who knew her saying their greetings. Even though they knew his illness was a lie they were impressed with how healthy Zeff looked.
Sanji stood in the middle of Sunny's deck with Mihawk, Kureha and Zeff beside him. Zoro sat against the mast hugging his son to him. Perona sat next to him. The meeting was all she hoped for. The rest of the Strawhats sat in front of Sanji waiting for him to explain what had happened years ago.
"I'm sorry for lying and putting you all through so much crap." Sanji began. "I guess I should start at the beginning. As you know I was born a Vinsmoke. When I was deemed a failure Judge faked my death and locked me in a cage. What no one knows is that Dr. Vegapunk came to visit one day and saw me. He asked about doing an experiment and Judge agreed. I was taken to a surgical room and something was put in me. I didn't know what at the time. Then Reiju helped me escape."
Everyone was following so Sanji continued. "When I was sixteen I started messing around with the dish boy. I got sick and the Old Man took me to quite a few doctors before one did an ultrasound. Boy were we surprised. It turned out Vegapunk transplanted a woman's complete reproductive system and hooked it all up to work on a man. I found out that day I was pregnant. We talked." He gestured to Zeff. "And we decided to terminate it which I hated but it seemed necessary. After that I became all about the ladies but you know how I zealous I get. I never once looked at another man that way until I met Zoro."
Zoro smiled and Sanji was renewed that they could get past this. "When we were younger all we did was but heads but after we were separated things were a little easier. I knew the consequences but I couldn't think of not being with the Marimo. I enforced condom use but when something is meant to happen it does. I left because I couldn't risk having a baby out here and I couldn't hold anyone back from their dreams."
"Why would Vegapunk do that?" Chopper asked.
"Me and Boomma." Sanji stopped as everyone turned to Kureha with crazy smiles at her nickname. "Anyway we talked about it and the Vinsmokes are all about strength right? Their raid suites protect them for the most part but what would happen it they lost an arm or an organ was damaged? Vegapunk used that drive to his advantage and suggested implanting something so foreign to see if it would work. Before they could confirm it did I was out of there but it worked. It's not quite the same as if I was born this way but it works."
Zoro cleared his throat. "What about… you know… girl stuff that happens every month?"
What a caveman Sanji thought. "We think it must get absorbed."
Luffy pouted. "But why didn't you tell us?"
"Would you honestly have let me go if you knew?" Sanji asked.
"Maybe." Luffy replied.
"Zoro would you have let me go?" Sanji turned to him.
"No." Zoro replied and pulled Ren tighter. The little boy had fallen asleep in his father's arms after all the hubbub.
"See there you have it. There's uh something else too." Sanji pointed to Ren then covered his ears with his hands Zoro got the hint and put one hand over the boy's ears the other already muffled by his father's chest. "You may have noticed he's bigger than a three year old he's about the size of a five year old. He's done things younger than he should have. So we're not sure if he is developing faster or aging faster than he should." He saw the looks of comprehension.
Sanji shrugged. "That's everything. I am truly sorry for lying to all of you especially you Zoro but I had to. I have pictured what Ren's life would have been like growing up on the ship so many times. I know he would have been happy. He has grown up happy and loved though. He's had opportunities I don't think he would have had otherwise. Uncle Mihawk's been training him for the past few months." Sanji saw confused reactions to the Uncle Mihawk statement. "Marimo our son has improved so much you're going to be really proud of him. Ren's used to a big family. He's used to yelling and fighting so Captain if it's alright with you we would like to stay."
Luffy jumped up. "Yosh! All of us are back together and we have another nakama awesome! We should have a feast."
Sanji laughed that was his captain. Ren had stirred in the excitement and looked around. Sanji looked to him. "Stay with Dad while me and Boompa make lunch okay. I'll talk to you after we eat." Ren nodded and stayed on Zoro's lap.
Kureha and Chopper went off to the infirmary happily chatting. Perona ran off to Mihawk's ship to get the matching bear costumes. Zeff and Sanji went into the galley to prepare the feast. Ren jumped up now that he had an audience. "Dad look what Uncle Mihawk showed me." He pulled the bokken from the loop on his belt and began to move around the open area. With practiced yet still ungraceful movements he swung it to an invisible opponent.
Mihawk stood back in his teacher's role watching the boy's movements. In ten years time he knew the boy could be a force to be reckoned with. He had picked his student well and would miss the time they spent together. He had a feeling he would see him again. Mihawk watched as Roronoa's face lit up taking in everything the little boy did. He could still see hurt in the new father's eye from missing so much of his life.
The Strawhats watched Ren. Luffy and Usopp clapping away. Franky hiding his tears and Brook working on a new song in his head. Jinbei and the girls marveled at how Zoro like he was.
The feast was a crazy affair. Perona had managed to fit Ren into his bear costume and used negative hollows and the other crew members to wrestle Zoro into his. She made them both keep them on during the meal. Laughter could be heard far from the ship by the bewildered sea life. Inside the galley was the chaos that Sanji missed. He watched as Ren fit in perfectly yelling, laughing and running around. He even helped his Uncle Luffy to steal food by distracting the others.
After lunch Zeff put some of them to work cleaning the dishes to give Sanji and Zoro time to talk. Once Sanji made sure Ren was occupied and taken care of he went with Zoro to his bedroom. "Franky made me my own room a little after you left."
It was a simple room with a bed big enough for two people, a dresser to the side of it and a locker for clothes built into the wall. Zoro had put the picture of him and Kuina back up attached to the wall. He also had a few pictures of him and Sanji that they had managed to take over the years. "It's nice." Sanji said.
Zoro set his sword against the wall and pulled the bear costume down leaving himself bare chested. He sat heavily on the bed. "I wish you would have told me."
"I know." Sanji sat behind Zoro on his knees. He caressed over the warm tan skin he loves so much of the swordsman's back feeling the still flawless skin. He leaned over his Marimo's shoulder to see the new scars Mihawk left. Zoro leaned back into his touch. "Do you forgive me?"
Zoro reached around pulling Sanji to face him. "Do you promise not to lie or hold anything back again?"
Sanji put his hands on the sides of Zoro's face pulling him close. He pressed their foreheads together and looked into his eye. "I promise." He gave the other man a chaste kiss. "I really missed this."
"Me too." Zoro kissed Sanji back. It quickly deepened and in it they expressed the love and longing they held for each other. Before long their touch was frantic causing clothes to be shed and they quickly made up for lost time.
Emerging from Zoro's room they were greeted with cheers from their nakama. "What?" Sanji asked annoyed.
"Nothing. Nothing" Usopp said. "He just won't be so grumpy anymore."
"Oi." Zoro said indignantly. "I haven't been that bad."
"Silly Zoro." Laughed Luffy.
"I almost felt bad for the marines." Franky added.
"Since Cook-san left you have been rather… tense." Robin threw in.
Zoro's become rather red in embarrassment he saw Sanji's red too and staying silent in all of this. "Can we just drop it?"
Before any one has a chance to say anything Ren runs up. "Dad where's your costume?"
Zoro flares an even brighter red and tries to sputter a response but Sanji saves him. "Dad was a messy eater and got it dirty."
"Oh ok." Ren turns. "Auntie Ona I'm taking it off." He runs off as Perona chases him in her ghost form both laughing. Luffy and Usopp join in on the fun.
Sanji gives him time to exhaust himself a bit then sits Ren down at the kitchen table. Zoro and Zeff are with him. Kureha is still with Chopper and Mihawk and Perona are sipping tea on deck. "Son." Sanji begins. "We're going to live on the Thousand Sunny now with Dad and all your other uncles and aunties okay?"
Ren nods enthusiastically. "Awesome Daddy!"
"Uncle Mihawk and Auntie Ona are going to leave and go back home since they haven't been home in about a year." Sanji starts with the easiest news first.
Ren deflates a bit. "Dad can teach me right? And when I'm bigger I can go show Uncle Mihawk what I learned."
"Yeah that's right. And Boompa and Boomma are going back to the Baratie so we won't see them for a long time." Sanji explains.
"Boompa… Boomma… but why?" Ren whines.
"Because Boompa has to run his restaurant and Boomma has to take care of people. As a Strawhat we'll be sailing all over the world Boompa and Boomma have to stay in one place." Sanji did not look forward to this he can see Ren looking from him to Zeff in confusion and hurt.
"It's ok Baby Eggplant. I'll keep Daddy's vivre card so I will always be able to find you and him and you will always know where to find me. You need to be with Dad. He's going to love you and teach you. It's ok." Zeff reassured him.
All of them can see the heartache the little boy is fighting with. He has his head bowed and twisting his fingers around each other. His little feet are kicking the air as sniffles are heard.
Zoro feels the weight of responsibility heavy on his shoulders. Not only does he now have a son but the first thing he is doing is taking him away from part of his family. He looks to Sanji and sees his lover struggling as well. He's not sure what to do. So he does the Luffy thing. He picks up Ren and passes him to Sanji then he hugs them both. Father and son begin to cry. Zoro looks over to Zeff and pulls him over too. Three generations are crying and Zoro feels like it's his fault.
Come bed time Ren is feeling better. He's gotten to know his aunties and uncles now. He's still not sure of all of them but he does like them. There are just like in all of Daddy's stories. He's sitting next to Uncle Chopper and Uncle Luffy while Uncle Usopp is telling a story. So far they are his favorites of his nakama. Uncle Nami likes to hit people for no good reason in his book. Uncle Brook is kinda creepy and Uncle Franky is just too loud. Auntie Robin and Uncle Jinbei are too quiet.
Sanji comes back from Mihawk's ship with their bags. "Ren it's time for bed." His son looks up. "Do you want to sleep in the boy's bunks or with me and Dad?"
Ren looks around. He's never shared a room with anyone besides Daddy. He thinks it would be cool to share with his uncles. "The boy's bunks."
"Ok. Come on you need to put on pajamas. Say goodnight." Sanji stands by the door to the bunks as Ren goes around saying goodnight.
Ren bows to Mihawk then hugs Perona, Zeff and Kureha. He asks if they will still be there in the morning and they reply yes.
Zoro follows Ren and Sanji to the bunks to watch their nightly routine. He wants to learn everything about his son. He could already see the admiration shinning in his son's eyes when he looks at him. He wants to be the Dad the kid already think of him as.
A few of the others trickle in as Ren is changing and they jump in their bunks. Sanji hugs Ren kisses him on the forehead then put him in bed. He then begins a sea story. Zoro watches as he captures Ren's full attention. He also notices how the others are listening in as well. When he's done Sanji stands kisses Ren again and whispers "I love you" in his ear. Ren whispers the same back.
Zoro feels another pang of what he missed out on but he's proud of what his lover has done. Sanji raised a great kid he sees that. As Sanji walks away Zoro bends over and hugs Ren tightly. "Goodnight my son." He feels elated saying the word.
Sanji and Zoro retire to Zoro's room now their room. They striped to their boxers and lay in bed face to face holding each other murmuring endearments and sharing kisses. As they were drifting off the door opened and Ren walked in holding his whale plush and a sleepy Usopp behind him. Sanji looked up. "What's wrong?"
Ren didn't want to say how he was feeling in front of his Dad. "Um… well… you know it's different here… I don't know where things are… Boompa's not here… it's dark and I can't find things… um."
Sanji waved his son over lifting the blanket. "Dad was hoping you would sleep with us anyway." Ren smiled brightly and jumped in bed snuggling between the two men. Usopp saluted and closed the door behind him. Zoro gave Sanji a quizzical look and Sanji mouthed "scared."
Ren was on his side with his face buried against Sanji's chest. Sanji wrapped his arm around the little boy and they both closed their eyes. Zoro looked at them in the dark and again felt how much he missed out on. He had been feeling lost multiple times throughout the day. He didn't know how to act or what to say in front of his son. He would just watch Sanji and do as he did until he figured it out. Zoro lightly brushed a large hand over the little boy's head seeing a small smile in response. He rested his hand on Sanji's hip. His lover opened his eyes leaned over and kissed him. Zoro felt a victory in that moment. He had made his small family happy.
3 Years 4 Months Old
The next morning Mihawk and his small group was set to set sail returning back to the Baratie. Ren was heartbroken looking back and forth between the two groups. He knew this had to happen. his Daddy told him but he didn't want it. He didn't understand why he couldn't have his whole family together.
Mihawk stepped in front of Ren and Sanji. "When he is old enough I would like to train him again." Mihawk looked away. "And you can always come to visit before then. I would like to make sure my successor is staying sharp and teaching my pupil correctly."
"Sap." Sanji said. "Thank you for both offers. And thank you for bringing us."
Mihawk stilled as the little boy hugged his legs. He bent down rubbing a hand over his back. "Tell Dad he better pick you out a proper sword when you are older or he will have to answer to me." Ren nodded then let go and bowed.
Zoro bowed too. "Thank you for training my son and helping my family get here."
Mihawk nodded then turned around and left to his ship. The emotional scene was chipping away at him and he refused to give in.
Next to say goodbye was Perona. She handed both bear costume off to Zoro. "You have to stay cute and don't let these two be idiots." She picked up Ren hugging him to her.
"I'm not cute Auntie Ona." He grumbled. "I'll take care of Dad and Daddy."
"Good. And Zoro if you treat him bad remember the things I can do to you." She gave Ren a last hug and set him down returning to the ship.
Dr. Kureha had already said her goodbye to Chopper and the others. She turned to Ren. "You have to listen to Chopper now." Ren nodded with tears in his eyes. "Don't worry we'll see each other again." She hugged and kissed the little boy passing him over to Zeff.
Zeff was fighting to stay strong for his grandson but that boy was his weakness. "Baby Eggplant when you find All Blue you have to let me know so I can come see it too." Ren nodded his face buried in Boompa's shirt and arms latched around his neck. "You can always come visit when you can. You can always come back and live with me if you don't like it out here but you have to try to have fun and find your own dream and be good to Dad and Daddy. Ok?" He was only answered with a broken sob.
Zeff passed Ren over to Sanji and the three shared a hug sniffling all around. Zeff pulled Zoro to the side after he broke away. "You may be stronger than me and younger than me but if you ever treat either of them bad I will find you and kick your ass all over the ocean.
Zoro scoffed. "I would never hurt them."
Zeff gave a firm nod then started to walk away. Kureha gave him a slap on the back. "Come on Old Man let's go home."
Then it was just the Strawhats left on the Sunny. Sanji still hugged a crying Ren fighting back his own tears. Luffy took in the sight it was a good thing he had Sanji back and Ren now but his nakama were sad. He took off his straw hat and sat it on the boys head, stretched his arms out and without warning pulled all his nakama into a group hug around father and son. The sounds of crying were replaced with groans and laughter. Luffy let everyone go laughing excitably. "C'mon Ren let's go play!"
Ren squealed with laughter jumping down and ran after Luffy, Usopp and Chopper. The others went back to their task. Sanji leaned against Zoro as the swordsman wrapped his arm around the cook's waist. Zoro still feels like he took part of Ren's family away but he now feels like he is giving him freedom only the seas can give and a family as crazy as him and Sanji. He thinks that maybe he can be the father Ren thinks he is.
I had fun writing this. If there is interest I can keep going with it. I already have a few story ideas. Thanks again for reading J
