W/N: Thanks for the support, everyone! To Crow, Con Ln Gi Tnh, imaguest, and Kittens: Thanks for reading and reviewing! You don't know how much your reviews mean to me~~~ :3
Hope you like this chapter. Please tell me your thoughts! Lots of love! www
"Open up, Law! Open up!" Luffy yells, as he knocks on Law's bedroom door. He has been knocking normally for the last five minutes and he is starting to lose his patience.
Why does this brat always go to bed so early?!
Right after he ended his call to Rouge, he immediately went to find Law to protest.
How could this brat just decide something like that without asking him first?!
"Law! LAW! TRAFALGAR LAW!" Luffy starts to knock harder and a moment later, the door finally opens. Too bad for Luffy, he is unable to stop his fist and ends up hitting Law's forehead.
"WHAT'S- OUCHHHH!"
One knock to the head and Law ends up lying on the floor.
Luffy immediately freezes at his place.
Shit. Shit!
"Are... Are you okay?" Luffy slowly approaches Law, trying to check the younger's condition. "Law?" He pokes Law's arm a few times and he is surprised when Law suddenly springs up from his lying position
And, the younger teen gives him an icy glare, almost ripping all Luffy's body hair off before he holds both his hands up to Luffy and screams, "YOU IDIOTTT!"
"I'M SORRY I'M SORRY I'M SORRY! GUWARGHHHH!"
Five minutes later, both Law and Luffy are already sitting at the counter in the kitchen, relieving the pain on their forehead and cheeks with some ice packs.
"You... You sure you don't want to go... to the hospital?" Luffy asks, but Law does not reply him. "Didn't it hurt? I'm afraid..." Luffy tries to ask again but Law's glare stops him halfway.
Geez. Luffy is just trying to be nice to Law and that is all he gets. Fine.
"What was it?" Law suddenly asks, and Luffy looks at the younger teen a little confused. "You better have good reason for waking me up from sleep." Law's voice low and threatening, giving the older teen goosebumps.
"Why... why did you tell Roger we're staying over for weekend?" Luffy asks, and this time it is Law's turn to look confused.
"Huh? I thought you'd want that. Hasn't it been a while since you last met them?"
Huh? Well... Okay... That's very perceptive of you brat...
...but this is not the right time! Why?!
But then, if Luffy really thinks about it, even he does not have the idea when will the right time be. Still...
"Did you forget that we have to share room?" Luffy asks, and Law slowly turns to look at Luffy again with a stoic face. Somehow, Luffy has the feeling that he is right.
Law must have forgotten! He must have!
This brat is supposed to be some sort of genius, isn't he?! Why does he always forget about something like this?!
It takes just a few seconds before Law comes up with his brilliant solution.
"But... you can sleep on the floor."
"HEY!" yells Luffy, and Law backs off a little. "I've never done anything to you before so why can't we just sleep normally?! I'm really not going to do anything!"
"You... You hugged me... A few times." answers Law, cheeks puffy and for a second Luffy finds it hard to say anything.
C-c- cute... NOOOOO!
"I- I- I WAS UNCONSCIOUS!"
"Still did."
And, Luffy can feel both his hands trying to move on their own. They want to strangle Law as bad as he does. They totally do. But then, he manages to calm himself down. He closes his eyes for a few seconds and takes in few deep breaths.
"Come on. I really won't do anything. You have to admit you mess-" Luffy tries to say, and Law turns to look at him with his icy glare. "I... I mean, I know you're just... Trying to be... Nice. So... Why can't you at least... Overlook it this one time? I'm finally home after two months so... Please don't make me sleep on the floor, please?"
Whew, living with this brat really is training him to be diplomatic, sort of.
And, Luffy waits hopefully, wishing that Law will consider what he just said. As expected, the wait is a torture for him but it is worth it.
"Okay. But you have to stay one meter away from me and if I catch you doing anything..." Law answers, a while later and Luffy immediately jumps excitedly in his mind.
Yeah, bingo! Good job, Luffy!
"Fine... Fine. I'm not going to do anything."
Then, it is silent. A moment later, Law slowly gets up from his seat. "Okay. It's settled then. I'm going to bed now."
The moment Law turns away from him, Luffy somehow subconsciously calling out to Law and the younger teen turns to look at him. "What?"
It takes a moment before Luffy finally says, "G-g- good... Night."
And, it really does not surprise Luffy that Law only responds with a hum before he walks away.
You... You brat. Reply me damn it!
xxx
"Working again this Christmas?" asks Zoro, while both of them are standing in front of the vending machine, picking their drinks for lunch.
"Y-" Luffy almost answers, before he is reminded to the event from the night before and changes his answer. "I'm taking a break this Christmas." answers Luffy, one finger pressing lightly on the 'Purchase' button. Then, he bends down, picking up his bottle of chocolate milk.
"Really?" Zoro responds with a somewhat surprised tone and Luffy hums in response before he asks,
"How about you?"
"Celebrating with Koshiro at the dojo." says Zoro, opening his can of Coke. "Sanji called me last night. He is coming back for Christmas. Thought all of us can hang out before he goes back. A New Year party maybe."
Sanji is their friend from high school and he is currently studying in a culinary school abroad. It had been almost three years since he went abroad and he came back to visit once in a while despite his busy schedule. He even came back to attend Ace's funeral.
"Really? He didn't call me! I miss his cooking!" Luffy says, before he awkwardly laughs and adds, "Of course, I miss him too."
"Idiot. You're drooling already." says Zoro, playfully knocking Luffy's forehead. "Well, you've been busy with your part-time job you hardly have time for us anymore."
Ouch.
Well, cannot blame Zoro. It was not really just his family but he kind of abandoned his friends too with his coping method. He spent a lot of time working to get his mind off things, running away from his problems. No more free time, no more social life.
"Hey, I don't mean-"
"I'm okay." says Luffy, giving Zoro his trademark smile. "Yeah, we should really meet up. I'll give Sanji a call."
And, Zoro smiles back at him before he takes another sip of his drink. "I look forward to that."
Later that night, Luffy comes home to Law sleeping on the couch as usual. At this point, he honestly does not find it annoying anymore that he has to wake Law up every time he comes home. He sends Law back to his room before he heads to his own room and proceeds with his routine. Then, he checks his email before he goes to bed.
Hey, what's up? Are you ready for Christmas? :) Know what, I'll be celebrating at my parents' this year and I'm sleeping over for the weekend. I'll be taking leaves. I really don't want to sound ungrateful but I really don't know if I'm ready. It was not even my decision. That brat decided without even asking me. I really don't know what is going on in his head. I'm just going to put up with it for now.
I just hope I won't screw it up. I'm kind of scared.
About Kid, I still haven't seen him. I hardly see him having lunch with his friends just like he used to before. I don't know. I heard the engineering students are busy with their projects. Maybe I'll see him again when he is free. Never mind, as long as nothing bad happens to him.
Done with your Christmas shopping? I think I'll do mine tomorrow! I got your suggestions noted! ;)
Take care, later!
Luffy clicks on the 'Send' button and waits.
Email successfully delivered.
So, yeah. Luffy told Matt about how he will spend his Christmas and weekend at his parents'. Knowing Matt, he is sure the reaction will be pretty much like Zoro. Well, both of them have been trying to talk Luffy into fixing his relationships with his parents anyway.
It has been a while since he really opened up to Matt and he is hoping Matt can help ease his feelings as usual. Honestly, writing to Matt really helps and Luffy wonders how would it be had they properly befriended each other in real life.
He could have moved on faster or maybe just...
Luffy really cannot tell.
And, he ends up falling asleep just thinking of the possibilities.
xxx
It is the day before Christmas and both of them are on leaves. It is snowing a little outside and Luffy is still sleeping when his bedroom door suddenly opens.
"Are you ready? I told you to get ready!" yells the younger, and Luffy instantly jumps up from his sleep.
"Damn it Law! Why didn't you knock-" Luffy turns to the door, yelling back at Law but he stops halfway when he realizes that Law is wearing a Santa hat.
And, Luffy sharply turns his head the other direction.
What the hell? So... So cute...
Okay, Luffy is mad because Law did not knock and he disturbed Luffy's sleep. But then, as soon as he sees Law with the Santa hat he just...
All his anger is gone just like that... Just...
What is this... Law is so cute just like a cat Luffy wants to pat his head so bad-
"Oi! Did you hear me?! Are you ready?!" another yell shocks Luffy, and he turns to look at Law.
"R- r- ready for what?"
"I told you we have to go help!" says Law, and Luffy is instantly reminded to their "Christmas plan".
Oh, right. Yeah. "Christmas plan."
Okay, a little recap. Since Sabo will not be around this year, it is totally safe for them to celebrate together and the brat actually agreed to spend the weekend at his parents. For the past few days Law had been reminding him about how they should go out earlier and help with the preparation.
Shit.
To be honest, Luffy does not think he wants to go back that early. Christmas, or generally any celebration had always been quite awkward for Luffy since Ace died so he made sure to go back from his part-time job just few hours before Christmas dinner.
Okay, Luffy knows that is very mean of him. But then...
Ah, Matt told him to have faith in himself and he had actually been encouraging Luffy for the past few days so he will just brave this one out! Thanks Matt!
Anyway, why is this brat so energetic early in the morning? Law did say they should go out in the morning but this...
"It's too early. It's what? Seven?"
"Doesn't matter! Let's go! Have you packed your stuff? I told you to pack them yesterday! I'll give you thirty minutes!"
"Wha-?" Luffy tries to protest. But then, Law is looking at him with a persistent face so he lazily gets out of his bed and starts packing his things.
I'm older. I'm freaking older! Why am I the one listening to him?!
As soon as Luffy is done packing, he immediately makes his way to the entryway where Law is already waiting and walk together to the car. Law had bought a bigger car for the winter, black and yellow in color.
It is kind of cute.
As soon as they are done placing the luggage at the back of the car, they begin their journey to Roger's. On the way, Luffy cannot stop thinking about why Law is not going back to Marie Jois. Luffy is sure Christmas will be more fun over there.
Why does he even want to celebrate Christmas with the commoners like them? How about his uncle?
And, Luffy lets out a sigh. At least he does not have to sleep on the floor.
Well, whatever. He has ten months to go. He has ten more months to put up with this brat. It will go away very fast...
Luffy slowly turns to look Law way to find the younger teen smiling.
An excited smile. He is totally excited!
And, it is so cute... Shit.
Luffy then subconsciously places his hand on his chest. He really feels like he will die from heart attack soon. Damn it...
They stop at a drive-through to get some breakfast on the way and when Law hands the tray to Luffy, he notices a tissue paper with a phone number written on it.
"Call me ;)" is written on the tissue and Luffy slowly turns to look at Law's hand.
The ring is there, it is freaking there!
Seriously woman! Can't you see that wedding ring?! Why are you-
Wait. Why does he even care? Isn't it better if Law is occupied with a girl?
"What's wrong?" Law suddenly asks.
"Oh, oh... Look, someone gave you their numbers."
"Urgh, that girl? I'll pass."
Picky.
They arrive at Roger's thirty minutes later and Luffy can see how excited Rouge is, already waiting for them at the door. As soon as Luffy gets out of the car, Rouge immediately makes her way to Luffy and wraps her arms around Luffy really tight. "I miss you!" Then, she turns to Law and gives him a hug too. "Law too!"
Damn. She really likes that brat.
Rouge then immediately pulls both of them into the house where Roger is waiting. As soon as Luffy gets into the house, he can see a Christmas tree, medium size in the middle of the living room, undecorated.
Is it new? Luffy had never seen it before.
"Oh, Law sent that yesterday." says Roger, noticing how Luffy has been staring at the tree.
And, Luffy turns to look Law's way. "Huh?"
"It's Christmas! We have to decorate the Christmas tree!" says Law excitedly. "I've told you, right? Your parents said they look forward to it!"
What? He did not tell Luffy anything!
Oh God.
Well, before Ace died they used to decorate the Christmas tree together but Luffy had been running away for the past two years so their old Christmas tree had been in the basement for quite some time.
To be honest, it is a little dreadful for Luffy but then it is probably a good start.
Yeah.
"I guess it's best we start now." says Law, excited.
This brat does not look like he can wait.
"Okay, I guess? Where are the ornaments?" asks Luffy, as he looks around to find some boxes stacking at the corner of the living room - small boxes of ornaments. There are about thirty of them and Luffy's eyes slowly widen.
The tree is not that big so what's up with these ornaments?!
They start unboxing to find a lot of cute ornaments inside. And, Luffy slowly turns to look at Law.
Heh. Good choice.
"These are so cute." Rouge says excitedly.
"Oh, I have something else!" says Law, as he takes out three more Santa hats from his backpack.
What's up with the Santa hats? He is too excited. What a child-
And, he sees Roger and Rouge putting the hats on each other, excited.
Oh. Well... It's Christmas.
Suddenly, Luffy feels a light weight on his head. Law just put the Santa hat on his head and Luffy can see Law smiling sweetly at him.
That sweet, suspicious smile.
They start decorating the Christmas tree a moment later and Luffy is holding a gingerbread-shaped ornament when his stomach suddenly grumbles.
They are not even real but they smell so good.
Then, he can hear Rouge chuckling. "This is so you." And, Luffy ends up laughing awkwardly.
Yeah, that part of him never really changed.
"I made gingerbread. Just the way you like it." Rouge says, with a smile. And, Luffy smiles back to her. Rouge makes a lot of small talks while they are decorating and Luffy can feel his heart breaking a little.
Rouge is showing effort. She has always been but Luffy is too scared. What if he ruins it? What if he acts the way he should not be acting?
After an hour working, they finally finish decorating the tree. And, Luffy can see how excited Law is after he put the finishing touch - a snowflake-shaped topper.
Had he ever done this before? Luffy thinks, as he looks at Law who is now taking photos of the tree with his phone.
Suddenly, Law turns to Luffy and his parents. "I'll take your photos, come on!" Then, he makes the three of them stands in front of the tree, Luffy in the middle.
"W-w-what are you doing?" Luffy mouthes to Law, but the younger teen does not respond to him. That is when Luffy suddenly feels Roger and Rouge wrapping their hands around him, heads touching his.
"Luffy, smile!" says Law, and Luffy ends up just freezing. Then, he can see Law looking up from the phone and smiles at him. This time, it is not the kind of overly sweet smile he always put on. It is just... A kind of sincere smile.
And, Luffy's lips starts to twitch upwards. That is when Law presses the button.
"Relax. Don't be too stiff. Give father and mother a hug." Law says to Luffy, and Luffy ends up wrapping his hands around Roger and Rouge. "Smile." Law says again and his tone somehow melts away all the tension in Luffy. His smile gets bigger gradually without him noticing.
"Do you want more?" Law asks, thirty photos later and that is when Rouge says,
"Oh, wait. Law, you should be in the picture too!"
And, Luffy can see that Law is a little startled. Then, he shakes his head a little. "Oh, I'm... I'm okay."
"No it's not! How can it be okay? We're a family! You have to be in the picture too! Come!" says Rouge, and Luffy is not sure if he is imagining it but the moment Rouge says 'family' he can see Law's eyes widen a little.
"But... Someone has to take the photos..."
"It's okay. We have a camera and tripod! I'll go get them." Roger say, and he immediately goes into one of the rooms downstairs. Then, Rouge pulls Law over, pushing him next to Luffy.
Somehow, having Law very close to him makes Luffy very nervous.
What... What is this?
While they wait, Luffy secretly tries to look up and sees Law smiling faintly. But then, it is a different kind of smile - a smile with a hint of sadness and Law looks like he is about to burst.
Roger comes back not long after that and immediately sets the equipment. Then, he looks at the three of them and says, "This thing comes with a remote control. Now let's take photos!"
Luffy then can feel how both Roger and Rouge extend their hugs, trying to make it like some sort of group hug and both the newlyweds automatically follow.
They are hugging each other and they are very close.
"Ready, smile!" Roger instructs, and he begins taking their photos. They take around fifty photos before Rouge and Roger release the newlyweds.
"Okay. Now just the two of you." says Rouge, startling both the newlyweds.
"We... we are okay." say both of them, voice shaky and Rouge looks at them confused.
"Again? Are you both being shy?" asks Rouge, and both the newlyweds shake their heads frantically. "This is your first Christmas together isn't it? More reason for couple photos!"
Shit.
In the end, both of them agree and Roger is about to take their photos when Rouge says, "Why are you both standing like that? Get closer! Hug! Just a little PDA won't hurt."
P... PDA?!
And, both Luffy and Law look at each other awkwardly before they move closer to each other. Then, Luffy can feel Law's hand around him. "Just... Just play along." whispers Law with a shaky voice and Luffy ends up wrapping his hand around Law too.
They can see how delighted Rouge is and Roger proceeds to taking their photos. "Smile!'
After they are finished taking photos, they sit on the couch, looking through the photos they have taken. Luffy notices how his smile was gradually getting bigger and how happy Rouge, Roger, and him look in the photos. And, he can feel his face warming up.
It is real.
They move on to the other camera after that and that is when Luffy notices that it was the same for Law. His smile gradually turned bigger just like Luffy and Luffy can see in some of the photos, the rare smile he saw back when Corazon was still living with them.
And, his heart starts beating faster.
They go further to the photos of just both of them and the same thing happened.
The rare smile is there.
He slowly looks up from the camera, tries stealing glances of Law. And, he can see how pale Law looks.
"Law, what's wrong?" Rouge suddenly asks, and Law looks at the older woman, giving her a smile - a smile that Luffy can tell is forced.
"Nothing."
xxx
That afternoon, right after a simple lunch they start their preparation for the night. They decide that Rouge and Law will work on the dinner, since both of them are the best at cooking while Roger and Luffy are in charge of cleaning the house.
Okay. Luffy will be alone with Roger and somehow, he gets nervous. But then, they have met several times before when Luffy was trying to keep an eye on Law so there will be no problems, right?
No problems.
So, they begin their works. After they are done with the rooms downstairs, they move to the basement. Then, they move upstairs.
"We thought of giving things away for charity." says Roger, the moment he opens the door to the attic. It is the last place for them to clean and the moment they switch on the lights, Luffy can see how dusty it is inside. It had actually been a while since they last cleaned the attic.
Luffy is then reminded to how Ace, Sabo, and him would hide among the furniture inside there when they were playing hide-and-seek as kids. Luffy can feel his tears starting to well but he holds it in.
He cannot cry to everything, right?
"It's good that you're here. Let me know if there's anything that you want to keep." says Roger, before they start to clear the dust. There are actually plenty of things in the attic. Old furniture, Ace's and Luffy's old beds, old toys...
He reaches out to one of the toy swords which used to be Ace's favorite and looks at it, recalling the times when they would have pretend sword fights.
And, he smiles faintly to that memory.
"Do you want to keep those?" Roger suddenly asks.
Honestly, Luffy wants to. Obviously for sentimental reasons. The toys hold so many memories from the childhood. But then, he knows there are kids out there that will be happy to have them so he slowly shakes his head and put the toy sword back.
He should learn how to move on.
They then begin sorting out the things, packing the small things into the boxes.
"You know... It's been a while since we have this sort of gathering." Roger suddenly says, and Luffy looks up from what he is doing, slowly turns to look Roger's way. But then, Roger is sitting with his back facing Luffy.
Well, with Luffy constantly trying to avoid them...
Then, Roger adds, "I was kind of worried since both of you are very young. But, I'm glad Law is a good guy. He is quite mature too."
Mature? Yeah right...
"I'm truly glad. Honestly, Rouge and I thought we won't be seeing you a lot anymore now that you're married. But, I'm really glad you're here today."
Luffy swears he hears Roger's voice cracks and it breaks Luffy's heart to hear it.
That is when he starts to question himself. What had he done?
And, he bites his lips hard, trying to prevent himself from bursting into tears.
What the hell...
After they are finished with the cleaning, Luffy goes to the room prepared for them. He opens the room to find a very comfortable king-sized bed waiting for him. They even put a TV in the room. He can clearly see his parents' effort in providing the best for them.
Then, he can see their luggage placed nicely near the wall and he can hear the shower running from inside the bathroom. It must be Law.
He lets out a sigh and falls on the bed, trying to relax.
Law comes out of the bathroom a while later and the moment he sees Luffy on the bed, he furrows his brows. "Eww, you look gross. Get off the bed, take a bath..."
And, Luffy turns to look at him but he does not say anything. He does not even protest.
"What's wrong?" Law asks, somehow noticing the little gloom in Luffy's face. But, Luffy shakes his head.
"Nothing."
xxx
That night, all of them gather at the table, ready for the dinner. Honestly, Luffy's heart still aches a little from his conversation with Roger but he is so not going to ruin their dinner.
He ruined a lot of things before but not this one. Not this one.
It does not take long until they finish setting everything. Rouge pours the wine for everyone before they start and just before she does the same for Law, the teen stops her. "Can I get something non-alcoholic, please?" says Law politely. "I... I don't really like the taste."
"Oh, sure. What would you like? Is juice okay?" Rouge asks, and Law responds to her with a smile.
"Yes, thank you."
Oh? Luffy noticed that Law never had those expensive wine served during the several occasions before but he actually thought it was because of him being underage.
So, this is the real reason? Pfft...
"Seriously? You don't like the taste? You're such a kid..." whispers Luffy, chuckling and Law makes a sharp turn to glare at him, silencing the older teen.
It does not take long until they start eating and there are a lot of dishes that night, mostly Luffy's favorite.
"Pass me the potato." says Luffy to Law, and the younger is trying to get the dish for Luffy when he notices that Luffy's parents are looking at them with weird stares.
Okay. The thing is, Luffy's tone sounds very normal to Law, considering that the marriage is not even real. But then, to Luffy's parents, it does not sound right.
Not with all the acts the couple has been putting before them.
In the split second, Law's brain starts analyzing the situation.
Identifying problems...
Generating solution...
Sending signal...
Then, Luffy can feel kicks to his foot. What is it? Law usually kicks him when something comes up. And, Luffy can see how Law's face starts to redden before the younger teen turns to look at Luffy with his lips trembling.
"Here you go." says Law, handing the dish with a sweet smile. Then, he swallows hard, really hard before he adds. "S- s- s- sweet... Sweetie."
And suddenly, Luffy feels like million of butterflies are trying to break free from his stomach.
W- Wh- What was that?!
For a moment, Luffy freezes until he feels few more kicks to his leg, telling him to co-operate.
"Y-y-yeah, thanks." Luffy takes the dish from Law with a sweet but awkward smile. "B- b- baby?"
Luffy can see how Law's brows immediately furrow.
Shit.
"This tomato is delicious. Eat more." Law says a while later, as he places few of them in Luffy's plate, putting more lovey dovey acts.
And, Luffy does the same. "Here, eat more meat."
Eventually, Luffy's parents stop staring and they go back to eating their food. They finish eating a while later and both Law and Luffy are told to stay at the table while Roger helps Rouge to carry the dish to the kitchen. From the dining table, they can hear how Rouge excitedly says, "Awww they both really are so cute!" before both of them disappear to the kitchen, leaving the newlyweds alone.
Saved. Whew.
Suddenly, Luffy can feel a kick to his leg.
"What was that?! Baby?! Are you implying that I am a kid?!" Law whispers angrily.
"I couldn't think of anything else! And what's with 'Sweetie'? That... That's so lame!"
"You idiot!" says Law, one hand up pinching Luffy's nose.
"Ouch! Don't pinch me!"
Both of them then start to pinch each other, trying to attack as much as possible until Roger and Rouge finally return from the kitchen with a tray of desserts. Rouge then slowly places the tray on the table and says, "Fresh from the oven!"
It is caramel pudding. A very tasty dessert but the only problem now is well... yeah.
It is baked.
And, Luffy can see how Law's face is turning pale.
"I hope you like it." says Rouge with a smile and Law smiles back at her awkwardly.
Revenge time.
Luffy then takes a big scoop of the pudding and turns to Law with a sweet smile on. "Baby. Here."
And, Law turns to look at him with a threatening smile.
HOW DARE YOU.
But then, Luffy does not budge, he keeps holding the spoon out for Law and the younger has no choice. He ends up eating the pudding and swallows them with teary eyes.
Worth it. Even if Law is going to kill him later. Gulp.
Then, Law takes out a bigger scoop of pudding and holds it out to Luffy. "Here. This part has a lot of caramel. You like your pudding with a lot of caramel, right sweetie?"
This brat...
"That's too much. I'm okay. As long as you like the pudding."
"As long as you're full and happy I don't mind."
Both of them then get into a kind of ridiculous competition, trying to feed each other as much as they can. And, it does not take long until Rouge interrupts, "Aww... Don't worry. I made extra."
Luffy can see Law trying to hold himself from crying and Luffy smiles victoriously.
YES!
xxx
Later that night, all of them gather at the living room, watching TV together and Rouge brings out more desserts for them to eat. It is very much like a normal family night where everyone gathers, just enjoying the moment together.
After a while, they begin unboxing the gifts. Law got Rouge a very pretty gold necklace with elegant design while Roger gets a very neatly designed leather bag. Both from some very expensive collection sets.
Things Luffy cannot afford even if he works his part-time job for a hundred year.
As for Luffy...
He slowly turns to the box in his hand where the limited edition watch, red in color for the anime he really likes is in.
Shit. It is super expensive and honestly, it scares Luffy a little how observant Law is.
Well, Two Pieces is a long-running anime that Luffy really likes and he wears the shirts most of the time so anyone should be able to figure out how much he likes the anime.
Now that Luffy thinks about it...
Luffy slowly turns to look at Law again. Law is looking at the gifts he got with a somewhat excited expression. Luffy knows whatever they got for Law is something he can buy easily but still...
He looks happy receiving them. He does not even look mad that Luffy gave him a sweater with cat motives.
Yeah, cat. Again.
At that moment, Luffy starts thinking that maybe he should really stop annoying Law with the cat-themed gifts.
Since Law is there, his parents start telling their son-in-law all sorts of embarrassing childhood stories about Luffy, just like how most parents-in-law do...
And, Law does not say anything. He only chuckles at the stories. Luffy tries really hard to prevent his parents from telling more but he fails. Miserably.
Somehow, Luffy cannot help but to notice that it does not feel as awkward as the year before.
"Law, how do you usually celebrate Christmas?" Rouge suddenly asks, noticing that Law does not tell much about himself.
"Usually it's just me and my uncle. We exchange gifts and have dinner together but it's actually been a while since I last celebrated."
"Oh..." And, Rouge looks like she regrets asking the question.
Luffy is not sure if Law is trying not to make Rouge feels bad but the younger teen adds, "Actually, my uncle is celebrating with someone else this year so it's okay. I wanted to celebrate Christmas with all of you too."
And, Rouge looks a little relieved. "Law, why are you not eating?" Rouge changes the subject and Luffy can see how Law's face is slowly turning pale. "Are these not good?" asks Rouge, referring to the baked dessert bars on the table.
"No. It's not like that. I was still full just now so... I'll try them now."
And, Law ends up taking a piece of them, awkward smile on his face.
God. Why is this brat forcing himself?
"You don't have to eat it if you hate it, you know... You can just tell her you don't like baked goods. She won't mind." whispers Luffy, but Law does not answer him. Instead, he immediately eats the dessert bar in one go.
Luffy can only look at him with in disbelief.
Is he a masochist? Whatever...
Luffy then turns to TV. He tried to help but that brat is being stubborn so Luffy will just let him be.
Suddenly, Luffy can feel Law leaning close to him.
What now? Is he trying to act lovey dovey now?
And, Luffy slowly turns to look at Law with his eyes narrowed to find both Law's eyes closed.
Is he asleep? So fast?
"Law?" Luffy asks, but the younger does not respond.
Seriously? Why is he sleeping here? What a time...
Luffy then tries waking Law up. "Law? Let's go upstairs. Law?" Suddenly, Law starts to move a little, weird kind of smile on his face. "Hic... hic!"
Eh?
And, a tinge of red is slowly appearing on Law's cheeks.
"Is... Is he... Drunk...? But he didn't..."
"Oh no..." Rouge suddenly says, and Luffy looks at her confused. "The one he just ate has rum in it..."
Eh?
xxx
Why? How did it end up like this? Luffy thinks, as he look at the younger teen who is now in bed, laid on his side and properly covered. They are now back in their room and both his parents had left Luffy to be in charge. Well, Law is married to Luffy after all.
But seriously. Who would have thought that the annoying brat actually has super low tolerance to alcohol?!
What kind of joke is this?! Luffy face palms.
Well, good thing the brat did not turn into a drunk wild monster.
Okay, now what? Well, Luffy is suppose to look after Law in case he suddenly acts up but then it is actually time for him to reply Matt's email.
It will not be long so it is okay, probably?
And, Luffy slowly tip-toes out of the guest room, slowly making his way to his own room.
As soon as he enters his room, he excitedly takes his seat and turns on the computer. He wonders if Matt will tell him how his Christmas celebration went this time. He always told Luffy nothing much happened. Whatever. He only hopes Matt is happy this Christmas.
Hey, how are you doing? It's been a busy day for me and nothing much happened. So, you're at your parents'? Did everything go well? I hope you had a good time and may all your wishes come true (Especially the one about Kid!)
Merry Christmas! :)
As usual, Matt's email comes with an attachment. Matt always sent Luffy cute e-cards for special occasions and festive seasons. Luffy keeps them in a folder and looks at them once in a while. That night, Luffy opens the attachment to find a cute e-card with an animated snowman.
It is very cute and Luffy cannot stop looking at it.
Luckily Luffy had prepared for Christmas this year. To be honest, it is embarrassing that he had always been sending Matt plain emails every year so he bought a special e-card just for Matt few days before.
Luckily he remembered!
Actually, now that he looks at the e-card he thinks it is probably too flashy for Matt. There are too many colors...
He is not sure if Matt will like it but whatever! He will send better ones in the future! Then, he attaches the e-card to the email before he starts writing.
Hey, I'm good! How about you? Yeah, I'm back to my parents'! I had a good time, seriously! Good things happened and honestly it is not as awkward this year. You said nothing much happened? I hope a lot of good things happen to you tomorrow and on!
Anyway, I want to see you! Do you think this wish will come true? ;)
Merry Christmas! :)
Yay! He sent the email to Matt and for some reason it feels very good. He is really excited.
He then switches the computer off and gets up from the chair, all ready to go back to the guest room. The moment he gets into the room, he is shocked to find Law lying on the floor.
OH NO! Why is this brat on the floor?! How long had he been there?
Luffy then slowly lifts the younger from the floor, carefully putting him back in bed. He kind of regrets leaving the brat alone. Luckily the brat is still breathing.
"You are such a troublemaker, you know?" Luffy says, as he squats next to Law. "Brat, brat, brat!"
And, Law does not react to everything Luffy just said. He is totally unconscious. This is fun! Now, if this brat is unconscious then Luffy can say and do whatever he wants, right?
Then, a cheeky smile slowly forms on Luffy's face.
Revenge time 2.0.
He then lifts up his hand and gives Law's forehead a soft poke. Seeing how Law is not reacting, Luffy does it once again. And again, and again, and again. It is really fun and Luffy does not think he can stop anytime soon. Luffy then tries to poke Law's forehead once again but something stops him halfway.
Damn. He knew it long ago but it feels like something new tonight - the way Law looks very cute in his sleep. Shit. He cannot unseen it now. Luffy then ends up just staring at Law's cute, sleeping face until Law's eyes suddenly open. Luffy moves back a little out of surprise and freezes for few seconds in his new spot.
Was this brat actually sober?! Damn. If he was, Luffy is so dead.
"S-s-sorry! I was just checking if you're okay!" Luffy tries to lie before a pair of hands suddenly go up and hold his cheeks.
Eh?
And, Luffy trembles, swallows hard as he waits for Law to yell at him. At least that is what he is expecting until...
"Pu... Pusheen..."
EHHH?! Pusheen?!
"Pusheen... hash hair... Hic... Hic!" says Law, as he ruffles Luffy's hair.
What's with this way of talking?! How old are you?! Luffy thinks, as he tries to get Law's hands off his hair. But then, Law proceeds to wrap his hands around Luffy's neck and drags the older teen to him. "Hulk! Hic... Hic! "
Hug! He meant hug, didn't he?!
"I'm not your Pusheen! Let me go!" says Luffy, volume raised as he tries to release himself from the younger teen but Law is holding him too tight. In the end, he gives up and decides to wait until the younger teen falls asleep.
And, begins the countdown for the five minutes of mental torture.
What should he do now? And, shit. Why does this brat always smell really nice?
Also, Law is very warm that Luffy has to resist from hugging him back. Damn it.
As he waits for Law to fall asleep, he can feel how Law is breathing softly through his hair because Law is holding Luffy in a way that the older's forehead is situated very close to his lips. Just like how he always slept with his Pusheen pillow.
Damn it. Damn it.
Five minutes later, Luffy tries to get up, slowly taking Law's hands off him. The moment he gets up, he immediately sees Law's cute sleeping face again. And, the tinge of red on Law's cheeks adds up more to the cuteness.
At that moment, it feels like Law is the cutest thing he had ever seen and his heart begins pounding hard, face slowly burning.
Damn. What kind of torture is this?!
NO. NO. NOOOO!
Okay, that was intense. Luffy really needs a glass of water now. So, he covers Law properly and gets off the bed, trying to make his way to the kitchen when he feels a tug on his shirt. And, he slowly turns to find Law's hand clutching on his shirt.
Now what?
He tries to take Law's hand off him but Law is holding on to his shirt really tight. Then, he can hear Law says, "Don't... Don't go."
And, Luffy ends up just freezing next to Law. He knows Law is just drunk and he does not know what he is talking about but still...
So, he waits for a while, at least until he thinks Law is already asleep. Then, he tries to take Law's hand off his shirt gently only to find how strong the grip is. He tries putting more force into it but he hears Law mumbling again.
"Don't... Don't... Don't leave..."
"Okay. I'm not leaving." says Luffy, finally giving up and he moves closer to Law, trying to find a comfortable position. He ends up lying with his face facing Law's and suddenly, he can feel his heart beating really fast.
Law is too cute. And... this? This is too close. He will not be able to sleep this way.
Luffy immediately takes his pillow and places it between them. Better.
Somehow, Law's soft breathing puts on some kind of spell on Luffy and he starts to feel sleepy not long after that.
And, it does not take long until he finally falls asleep.