AN:
HEYA GUYS… THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR CONSTANTLY LIKING MY STORY. PLEASE CHECK OUT MY NEW STORY: FATES OF THE HIDDEN WORLD
TECHNICALLY IT IS STILL ABOUT ASL SISTERS BUT THE SETUP IS DIFFERENT AND THE WAY OF WRITING IS DIFFERENT TOO. I AM NOT SURE IF YOU GUYS WILL LIKE IT, BUT IT WON'T HURT TO TRY, RIGHT?
THANKS TO MYSTERYREADER FOR GIVING ME A GOOD SLAP OF TRUTH. LOL.
ANN'S ATTITUDE/CHARACTER IS A BIT 'NOT SO ACE'. SO I WILL MAKE A FEW ALTERATIONS ALONG THE WAY MAKING ANN A BIT PLAYFUL, CHILDISH AND A BIT HOT TEMPERED.
AS FOR MY GUEST READERS/REVIEWERS, THANKS FOR LIKING MY STORY.
AS FOR THOSE PEOPLE WHO TOOK NOTICE OF SOME DETAILS THAT THEY PREFER, YOU GUYS ARE FREE TO SPEAK UP, BUT I AM NOT PROMISING THAT I WILL COMPLY TO REQUESTS, BUT I AM OPEN FOR A GOOD SLAPPING OF TRUTH. HAHAHA.
FORGIVE MY WORDING. I AM SPECIFICALLY WEIRD AND GIDDY DURING THE TIME I AM WRITING THIS.
AGAIN: FORGIVE ANY GRAMMAR MISHAPS BECAUSE THIS IS TOO LONG FOR ME TO RE-READ AND CORRECT EVERYTHING FROM THE BEGINNING. JUST IGNORE IT. WHATEVER.
Special heads up and disclaimer: Some of the ideas contained in this chapter are inspired by Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and company.
I KNOW I DON'T USUALLY SAY THIG DISCLAIMER BUT ONE PIECE IS NOT MINE. IT'S OBVIOUS.
Chapter 20 –
Kidd started to take note of the files and the planned structure of the establishment. There are a lot that he needs to change. Mr. Gol D. Roger said that he is free to do whatever he feels like as long as the establishment will have good results. Truly, Kidd never met a man such as him who would let someone like him to do as he pleases. Kidd's decision might jeopardize this project and this causes who knows how much. Kidd could never hope to pay for any damages if it comes to that. He will go broke! But rest assured, Roger told him that he will trust in his raw abilities in doing so.
Today, he is examining the site. There are architectures and engineers with him.
"What do you think of the site?" Roger asked. They scheduled a visit in the site today so as to proceed with the planning.
"The land seems to be holding good. The site for this establishment is good because this can be considered a business area as well but knowing the aims of building this establishment, I could say it is suited. The hotel's designs can be anything given that this area is in between of business district and residential district. I can make initial estimation of the steels and materials to use for the initial design you prepared."
"Hmm, good observation. I was actually thinking of adding something like a theme park nearby the hotel. My youngest daughter loves them so much. Then Restaurants around it so guests can have choices. Do you think you can make estimations for those establishments?" Roger asked.
Rayleigh only chuckles at Roger's comments. He is one of those businessmen that builds business for his children.
"Yes, I supposed but I need to have draft of the design first. It would be good to have the budget estimations as well. We wouldn't want to have over budget." Kidd stated. In business, money budget is essential. You have to know how much you are going to spend over the money you are going to earn.
"Meh. Doesn't matter, so long as the establishments are safe for everyone to use and as long as it will last for decades. What's the use of building something that won't even last?" Kidd is slightly shocked by the Roger's statements. This coming from the richest man in the world. It is a good thing that business nowadays are not all about the money they could earn but rather building something for everyone.
"Hmp. Sure thing."
"Why don't we talk things over in a lunch?" Rayleigh suggested earning a good approval from Roger whose mind is already clouded with thoughts of food.
"Why the hell not?" The red haired man agreed. Some of the architects and engineers stayed for more in the site to begin their planning while the three men led themselves to a nearby restaurant.
They immediately earned onlookers from the customers in the restaurant. That is to be expected due to the presence of the two of the most powerful and influential people in the world.
They proceed to get a VIP room to avoid some eavesdroppers. Roger sensed that Kidd can be uncomfortable in the presence of many scrutinizing eyes of people.
"You should be used to their gazes already. What with your status and all." Roger commented earning a frown from Kidd.
"That does not mean I enjoy every nosy people poking in my life."
"Hahaha. Quite the point right there. Your attitude reminds me of my daughters. Haha."
This piqued the interest of Kidd. This man has his life flashed before the eyes of media and public yet his daughters refused to do so. The red haired MMA fighter is curious but does not mean he will start to be nosy. This is their business, not his.
"These media will patronize you because you have the money of the world at your feet. It's either that, or you held influence or you are hell of a good looking individual." Kidd commented out of nowhere earning a laugh coming from the two older men in front of him.
"You are dead right. Which of the categories do you belong to?" Rayleigh asked with a sly smirk.
"Who knows?" He slyly replied to Rayleigh. Roger shrugs the conversation as the food came. Kidd wonders how Roger could eat so many foods all at once which reminds him of Luffia.
"So, when do you think will submit the report?" Roger asked while eating.
"Depends on the estimates for the structure. I should be able to work on it this week. I can provide the initial draft in three days."
"Good. I can ask one of my daughters to look into it. Maybe she can give me an opinion." Roger flatly stated thinking of consulting Sab. Ann might be an engineer but Sab can appreciate a structure and some complicated details.
"I see." Kidd fought dread to speak some comments as he does not want to be offending or to pry. It is natural for a father to value the opinion of his child.
"But you know, I should give my cute Angel a call (Referring to Sab). I really got this feeling the other night that something must have happened to her. I can't shake the feeling." Roger said thoughtfully. Kidd just raised his eyebrows at this conversation. Clearly, their planned lunch business meeting seems to be drifting to something of a personal conversation. The red haired man just continued eating while listening to the two older men.
"You're just being paranoid as always." Rayleigh grumbled.
"No! What if some random men would take advantage of them?"
Rayleigh rolled his eyes at Roger's silliness.
"They are strong women. They can take care of themselves. Besides, they are already in a good age to start dating."
"D-Dating? And doing this and that with men? No way! I will not have any men date my daughters without my approval! They must go through me first! That must be why I got the chill the other night. My poor cute Angel must be with that guy, whoever that bastard is!"
Suddenly, Kidd felt a bit of chill in his spine like the acidic words coming from Roger are directed to him but he ignored it. He must have felt it because he can hear it firsthand. Roger seems to be nursing a heavy overprotectiveness around his daughters.
"Must you insist that? Your daughters are wise enough to date a suitable man. Besides, shouldn't you be happy that they are happy with those men?" Rayleigh argued.
"Whose side are you on? I thought I'm your best friend!" Roger asked with a hint of betrayal which Rayleigh shrugged off, far too used to his antics.
"Kidd, what do you think I should do? Should I try to hunt down those men? Maybe hiring assassins would be good too." Kidd sweat dropped at Roger's idea. Assassins? Seriously? Kidd was about to laugh the suggestion off but seeing that Roger is serious about the idea, he fought off his original remark. He looked towards Rayleigh who was downright horrified at the idea.
"Uhm, I think you should wait until your daughters are ready to introduce their boyfriends. Who knows, they might not be serious to begin with." Kidd stated.
Roger frowned at his answer but as soon as it sank into his thick head, he nodded with thoughts.
"Right. Of course, and as soon as I know their identity, I will do what I have to do then. That goes for any admirers too."
Kidd does not want to know what is going on Roger's mind. He is afraid to know that this mind has been planning an assassination attempts for the men in question, whoever they are. Pity for those who knew the daughters and are currently having an affair with them…
Kidd only has one thought in mind. May they Rest in Peace….
===XXX===
"Soo… What are we doing here?" Sab asked her sister. They are currently in the Thousand Sunny ship, a private voyage ship owned by their sister.
This morning, their little sister just asked them to come with her to the island adventure. She came bouncing up and down on their bed at 5:00 am in the morning just to wake them up and drag them to whatever this is. Good thing that Sab made early cancellations with her appointments in the hospital.
"We're going to do the photoshoot!"
"A what now?" A still sleepy Ann asked.
"Photoshoot." Luffia answered like it is the most obvious thing in the world.
"What for?" Sab asked.
"It's for the promotional thingy for the upcoming fashion show for a cause that we will have after the race."
"Wait, wait, wait. Did you just said fashion show? Since when did I agreed to join this?" Ann asked, seemingly awakened by Luffia's claims.
"You agreed last time I asked you guys. Can't remember when." Luffia shrugged. Even Sab can't remember when she asked them to join this hilarious event.
"Fashion Show for a Cause, I guess we might as well join. This is for the foundation after all." Sab shrugged. She does not really mind plus this is a perfect excuse to get away from the hospital and a possible encounter with Kidd. After what happened last time, she does not have the guts to face him now.
"Okay, whatever. Is it going to be just us?" Ann asked.
"Nope. Nami, Robin, Koala, Kaya, Vivi, Caimie, Conis, and many more will join us for the photo shoot This is going to be awesome!"
"Koala? She's joining? Why did I not know of this before?" Sab asked curiously while sipping the freshly prepared juice that was stored in the fridge.
"Oh, I asked Iva-chan to make her come. Plus, I promised a good interview with her after this."
Sab thought so. It really turns out to be a bribery of some sort. Oh, well. Might as well enjoy everything.
"So, this fashion show, don't you think it's a bit too early for that? I mean what about the preparations and everything. We have the race to focus on and you said this fashion show would be after the race." Ann voiced out her concern.
"Oh, that. Don't worry. We already have it sorted out and you will love the ideas! Shishishi." The twins just looked at each other, a bit worried about this idea Luffia is talking about.
Approximately an hour later, they arrived in a private island they call Little East Blue. This is a private island only intended as an escapade for the entire Straw Hats. There is a huge villa that can accommodate them and it seems that everyone is already there.
"Come on. The main actresses are already here. Better make this thing sorted out!" Nami barked to everyone. For an accountant, she is bossy enough but that is to be expected considering that she has to make sure Luffia won't be doing extreme things and bring downfall to everyone involved.
"We're going to have a photo shoot!" Luffia cheered to everyone and they all just laughed. "By the way, where's Pappagg?" she asked for the famous designer.
"She's preparing for the outfits we are going to use." Caimie answered and Luffia just shrugged.
"Okay. First off, this fashion show is not going to be just any ordinary fashion show. This is an actual fashion show for a cause. The Sales for the next 2 months will go to ASL Sisters Foundation for their Women Empowerment program. " Nami explained to everyone. Good thing she explained this because knowing Luffia she probably did not give any sort of explanation and instead dragged everyone into this.
"The Fashion would be the coolest and most amazing there is! You guys will like it!" Luffia said.
"Fufu. Of course they would, Luffia. It's your idea after all." The women around shivered at Robin's tone. Combined with that mysterious smile of hers, everyone dreaded as to what exactly they got themselves into…
And rightly so.
Some of them expected this much having heard it from Pappagg, Nami and Robin, but not Ann and Sab.
Ann stared dumbfounded at Pappagg who is explaining the fashion show and their outfits while Sab looked downright confused.
"Wait, wait! Stop for sec! Let me get this straight!" Ann raised her voice a little as she is willing herself that this situation might be only her imagination. "This is a Fashion Show for a cause, right?"
"Yes." Luffia answered since the question was directed to her.
"This is for the ASL Sisters Foundation, right?"
"Yes."
"Then why the hell is this a Fashion show for swimsuits?!" Her voice clearly states her outburst finding the idea ridiculous.
Luffia blinked at her, trying to study her reaction then her facial expression turned from blank to the look that says: 'Are you stupid or something?' but before she could retort something that contains Luffia logic, Sab inserted a comment.
"I have to say though, Ann is right. I really failed to see where this is going." Sab said with honesty.
"I want it to be different plus, the fashion show won't be like any boring fashion shows. We will have fireworks, arts and cool flying wings!"
The twins looked at themselves blinking furiously at the idea. Fashion show with wings?
"What are you talking about?" Ann asked with a raised eyebrow. Seemingly, the fruits near her interest her as she took an apple and took a bite while looking at Luffia who is now eating orange.
"Hmm… We will look like Angels with wings or Devils with wicked wings then the decoration would be cool and amazing, plus it would be epic! It's a fashion show at its grandest! It is a good publicity and such." Sab raised an eyebrow, sensing that Luffia is already making unexpected smart moves. As the blond woman looked at Ann, she seems to be in deep thought. Honestly, Ann can be as dense as Luffia and sometimes denser than the youngest.
"Ann, Lu, come with me for a sec." Sab commanded, leaving the reception area of the villa to go outside in the gardens where the three of them can talk with no one to hear them. Sure, most of their friends knew who they are but not all of them.
"I still don't get it." Ann said with a frown. Sab raised another eyebrow at her and sighed with exasperation.
"Lu is already preparing to go public." The doctor stated. Ann blinked at her then her eyes turned as wide as they could, realization hit her like a dam of water. Damn, that's kind of dense. With no pun intended.
"I thought we are going slowly!" Ann looked at her youngest sister for further explanation, unfortunately, the said sister is busy munching another fruit for a snack. Sab took the initiative to take the apple and took a bite.
"Hey! That's mine!" Luffia complained.
"Just answer Ann first. She's ready to burst any minute now." Sab flatly stated then returned the apple to the youngest who in turn devoured it within seconds. She seems afraid that Sab would steal it again and take a bite.
She swallowed everything before turning to a frowning Ann.
"When are we going to take actions? Next year? That would be too long. Let's start early. They say that Early people always gets the meat."
"Huh?" Ann frowned again, her face contorted with so confusion with the bad wording Luffia mixed.
Sab rolled her eyes at this silliness, either with Luffia's another unusual smartness or Ann's denseness.
"Ann, she meant Early Bird catches the worm saying."
"Oh. But that's not important right now. Can't you reschedule the Fashion show for another month or so? And why does it really have to be swimsuits anyway?"
"Nope! The earlier the better! Besides, swimsuits are the best. Or would you rather have lingerie? Nami suggested that."
The twins' face turned twisted in horror and redness crept to their faces.
"You wouldn't dare!" they said in unison.
Luffia shrugged them off not caring.
"What's wrong with lingerie? Nami likes them. She said they are nice."
Ann made a mental note to reprimand the ever witch Nami for the ideas she is giving to their innocent little sister.
"No! Definitely not! Swimsuits are great! We should have them in the fashion show, right, Ann?"
"Yup. Let's just stick with swimsuits."
Luffia's face brightened with excitement.
"Okay. Let's get this show started!"
It appears that Koala will be the one doing the photo shoot. She is readying her camera. Some staff are helping the models with necessary make up and their attires. Sab even took the initiative to take one of the cameras and help Koala do the shooting since it will take more than one camera to have the photo shoot finish.
Overall estimation, the photo shoots would be finished in 5 days tops. Sab groaned at this. She have to make adjustments with her job and take an emergency leave. As for Ann, she is a freelancer so she has no boss but surely, her boyfriend should know about this. As for the others, they must have made a few arrangements to accommodate the photo shoot.
Robin took out her camera as well. Luffia wanted to play with the camera but Nami swatted her away from it.
Basically, everyone is on their best swimsuits, ready for the photo shoot. First up is a well known model, Nami. She is currently wearing a green skimpy bikini that showed off her curves. Robin and Sab are in charge of taking video footages during the shoot while Koala does the major shots.
As expected, Nami is an expert – confident, sexy and very vibrant. They took the pictures while she is sunbathing, sipping her juice (which Luffia is envious of) and relaxing under the sun.
Next up are the other girls. They pose quite well for someone who are not models like Nami. The next one happens to be Ann's.
"Ohh… Go, Ann!" Luffia cheered her elder sister. Sab is sporting a sly smirk that made Ann shiver for a moment.
"Your boyfriend's going to drool over you~~" The blonde twin teased.
"S-Shut up!" Ann tried so hard to hide that blush appearing on her cheeks but to no avail. Speaking of boyfriend, Ann haven't called Marco to let him know she would be absent for the next few days due to Luffia's crazy ideas.
"You can call him later." Sab pointed out. Honestly, how can she read Ann's mind so easily?
"Huh, I never knew Ann has a boyfriend." Robin pointed out.
"And who might this person be?" Ann froze as the scrutinizing gaze of Nami was pointed at her.
"No one!" she denied. It would not be good if more word were to come out about her dating Marco. The more people know about it, the more it is likely that her dad will find out and she would like to avoid that, thank you very much.
Ann is trying to signal Sab not to say any word and since the blonde is the smartest of the three, it all comes down to reprimanding their ever rambunctious youngest sister and judging from the look on her face, it would only take a second before she would burst out and start telling every living person that Ann is dating Marco.
"Luffia! I'll give you lots of meat later." Ann got her full attention.
"Really? LOTS and LOTS of it?" Her eyes immediately turned all hungry and anticipating,.
"Yes, but promise one thing." A promise is a heavy weight on them
"Yes!"
"Don't tell them who I'm dating." Ann stated earning a earnest nod from the youngest and a few protests from the girls.
"Ann! No fair! How can you exclude us, your dear friends?" Nami sounded so broken and hurt but Ann is so used to her antics and crying effect.
"Duh. I know when to keep secrets especially from you." Ann pointed out to the red haired woman who huffed indignantly at Ann's response. She is too nosy for Ann's liking and her relationship with Marco is at stake.
"Alright, alright. Ann already has a boyfriend which she does not want to share, and Nami is being nosy as usual. Can we move on, folks?" Koala asked, crossing her arms in front of her chest, annoyed at their banters. The rest of the squads are snickering that they have been scolded by a petite Koala.
Ann just shrugged it off with a grin since no matter what angle anyone looks, she won this argument.
"Okay! I want you to do exactly as I say. Kneel right here, make sure to have a confident vibe – knowing you, that will come easy – then arch your back a bit, and chest out." Koala firmly instructed which Ann dreaded to follow. She is currently wearing an orange stringed swimsuit that shows off her abs and sexy figure. Robin proceeds to continue taking videos while Koala is taking the shots.
Luffia is watching them, bored out of her mind and Sab took notice of this. A bored Luffia is a sign of disaster; bless the soul of who will face this boredom and the results out of it.
Sab gave the camera to Nami so she could do the shots since she knew how to operate a camera. The blond twin went to Luffia's side and found her fiddling with Ann's phone, a hint of mischief in her eyes like she found something so interesting. Sab's mind went roller coaster as she thought of possibilities of what could be so amusing in Ann's phone. God, forbid if there is something inappropriate there, Sab would have serious talk with their eldest.
"Luffia, what are you doing?" she asked.
"Sab! I am taking pictures of Ann." Truth be told, she is taking a rather good shots using Ann's cellphone. The last one she took, Ann was back on her feet, in a motion of fixing her hair while she is under the sun. Since they are in position 2:00 o'clock from where Ann is actually looking, the picture looked natural like she was having a stroll in the beach.
"What are you going to do with that pictures?" Sab asked and Luffia gave her a toothy grin that clearly states she is enjoying this.
"I'm going to send it to Marco. Shishishi. Do you think he will like it?" Uh-oh… Looks like Ann will play the victim now. Sab is slowly grinning now.
"I thought this island almost has no signal?" Sab asked curious.
"Oh, it goes away and sometimes it stays. It's irregular as what Nami said since Franky is doing some remodeling." Luffia shrugged and continued to take pictures of Ann.
"So, you're going to send it to Marco?" Sab asked. Luffia looked at her sister with a big bright grin on her face.
"Of course!"
"Then let me choose the right picture to send." Sab took the cellphone and together, they took turns into choosing which picture they should send.
Poor Ann, so naïve and innocent while taking her photo shoots.
===XXX===XXX===XXX===
Marco looked at his cell phone this morning. He did not receive any text message from Ann even when he texted her Good Morning, she did not reply at all and he is getting quite worried right now. It's almost lunch and usually, she would text him where he is eating and what he is eating, or sometimes, he would call her.
At first, he tried to give her credit as he thought she might be busy for the upcoming Annual Cup but as soon as 10 am hits the clock, he started to worry. He sent 5 texts to her with no reply at all.
Before going to the usual meeting, he tried calling her…
"The number you have dialed is either out of network or out of coverage area, please try your call later."
He tried for three times and to no avail. Marco sighed. Thoughts ran to his head as to why Ann is not answering him at all. Did she realize that she's too good for him? Or that he is too old for her? Did she find another man that she thinks is better than Marco?
He sighed, he is thinking too much. He shouldn't discredit her like that. He should trust her if he means to make it work.
With that in thought, he proceeded to the meeting, his cellphone in his pocket in case Ann sends a word.
As usual, he is the early one amongst others but 5 minutes later, more of his siblings showed up and like usual, Thatch and Haruta always comes late.
"Hey Marco. You are as early like usual. No girlfriend to hold you up?" Thatch wiggled his eyebrows suggestively as he sat in front of Marco followed by Izou who was a curious as a cat sniffing for a mouse.
"And you're as late as usual. Got busy with your pompadour?" he retorted but there are no effects as Thatch shrugged it off.
"You seemed distressed, Marco? Don't tell me you broke with your girlfriend?" Curiel asked making Marco roll his eyes.
"No." He simply answered. Too many details are never good.
"Hmm, well, if you ever broke up with her, don't worry. I can always ship you with Ann. You two would be good together! I just knew it!" Marco sweat dropped at Izou's insistence at the matter. Every time she finds a chance to bring it out, she would always rub it to Marco that he should date Ann – which in fact he does. He just dreaded telling her for she will become too nosy.
"Yes, yes, I get the sentiments, but can we proceed with the meeting? There are far more interesting topics than my love life, yoi."
"But son, having a prospect grandchildren with this woman is a matter of importance too." Edward Newgate added. Marco glared down at his father who has a glint of amusement at Marco's uncomfortable expression.
"Alright, alright. I won't say anything. Let's just get this damn meeting over. If you ask me, my final approval on whatever projects you work on will still be meaningless for Marco can surely handle that."
"Pops, I am only a Vice President. You are still the President." Marco said.
"Yes, yes. Let's just get this over with."
The meeting started with full of boring reports. Wow, since when Marco thought that his work and these meetings are boring? Maybe Ann has something to do with his today's mood.
Right now, they are all listening to Namur making his report. Marco was trying to focus his attention on the details and not dwell on the fact that Ann did not contact him this morning. He was drinking coffee while listening because he needed to be alert when he felt his phone vibrated. Subconsciously, he reached for his phone in his pocket using his left hand as his right hand is busy holding the coffee cup.
He looked at his phone and Ann's name was on the screen. She sent a text message. Marco tried not to be too excited at the message, so he calmed his nerves, pretended to be so relaxed while sipping the coffee and calmly read whatever message she sent, probably a reason why she did not contacted him all morning… That originally his plan, but well, as they say plans sometimes go wrong…
And it went terribly wrong.
Marco almost choked on the coffee he is drinking and had all the attention of his family.
"Marco, are you okay?" Haruta asked with hesitation. Marco put down his coffee cup, he is afraid he might accidentally drop it which would turn to be more embarrassing than choking on his coffee.
"I-I'm f-fine. Please, go on." He said and tried to calm his nerves and avoided Izou's gaze as Marco knew too well what is going on her mind right now. Knowing her, she would know exactly what baffled Marco from his focus.
Can anyone blame him?
Ann just sent a very sexy photo of herself in an orange stringed bikini, for fuck's sake! Marco is not mentally prepared for that sight, not when he is not alone and with his family, especially with Izou.
He put his cellphone back on his pocket, too afraid that Izou might snatch it any minute and she will know that Marco is dating Ann.
Even just for that moment there, Marco could not forget the angle of the shot. In the picture, Ann is naturally walking down the beautiful beach while her other hand is gliding her hair at her back. She was looking straight towards something, her expression contains focus, yet sexy vibrant look. Her dark grey eyes shone with fire that makes Marco shiver.
He pushed any mental comments he has for that picture and tried to focus his attention on Namur and Blenheim who was intent on discussing something about the company matters that Marco did not understand. How could he? His thoughts are already disturbed with that picture.
Kingdew's report came next about the orphanage they handle. Marco is slowly gained his focus but it seems that the cellphone of his does not want him to do so for it vibrated again, signaling another message. Marco fought nail and tooth against himself not to take a look at the phone, but his curiosity as to what the message contains proved to be victorious as he slowly reached for his phone and subtlety opened the message which in no doubt contains something that might give him a heart attack and deep inside Marco's mind, he would not mind it at all.
Truth to be told, the next picture is enough to give him nosebleeds. With all Marco's will and worth, he tried his earnest to avoid having nosebleeds in front of his family. He has a reputation that he needs to maintain, but it wouldn't be too surprising if that were to happen since the next picture contained of Andrea facing sideways, hands gripping her hair dark hair, she's currently facing the ray of the sun, kneeling in front of the beach on its white sand. She is now facing the camera fiercely - as if trying to seduce whoever is watching her, coaxing into staring at her striking beauty.
In the picture, Marco could definitely see how firm her butt is and to think that he was giving that butt a squeeze every now and then. Damn!
He stopped staring at the photo and put the cellphone back to where it supposed to belong. He looked up only to see Izou raising an eyebrow at him but he ignored her. He would just hope that she would let this slide.
The meeting continued and Marco was half thankful that his phone did not vibrate for another text message for he knows that one more picture and he would turn insane.
As soon as the meeting is over, Marco did his best to avoid Izou for the sorry excuse of meeting some clients since he is running late already. Of course, Izou does not appreciate the fact that Marco is avoiding her but the blonde VP knew she would interrogate him sooner or later.
He heaved a sigh of relief as he got away from Izou. He went straight to the agreed meeting spot for the clients he had to deal with. Temporarily, the image of Ann in an orange bikini was shoved at the back of his head. He tried to focus more on his work rather than think of how sexy and beautiful Ann looks, or how he wished that he could be with her right now, or… Okay, he's losing his focus again.
The clients in front of Marco continued to talk when his phone vibrated again. He subconsciously reached out for it to check who sent the message. Seriously, he should have known better than to let his guard down as another picture was sent. Still in that ridiculously sexy orange bikini, this time she was fully facing the camera, she smiles brightly as if she is the most carefree person alive.
"Uh, Marco?"
Marco internally smiled to himself. Her presence is something that is essential to his rather stoic life.
"Marco, is everything all right?" Marco snapped out of his staring in Ann's picture then turned his attention towards the clients.
"Ah, yes, yoi. Let's continue." He said with a bit of apologetic smile.
Marco ought to ignore the cellphone for the rest of the meeting.
===XXX===XXX===XXX===
Sab sighed and tried to get in touch with the hospital to let them know of change of plans for the rest of the week. She is currently making a call through the only telephone in the villa.
"I need you to cancel out all my appointments for the week. There's been sort of emergency right here. Just tell Mr. Crocus that I will be out of the office."
"But, Doc, what about the rounds that you will have this week? You are supposed to make rounds in the private wing,." Sab sighed at the Head Nurse.
"Yes, I know but this is unexpected. I haven't took any vacation leave anyway."
"Okay, Doc. I'll let the management know. What about your schedules in the Penitentiary House? You are supposed to meet some patients for consultations." Sab mentally cursed for the lack of remembering those schedules and speaking of consultations, she remembered that she was supposed to accompany Kidd in the meditation tomorrow.
The memories from the drunken night are still fresh in her mind and to be honest, she does not have the guts to see him right now. Maybe this getaway can be her excuse to avoid him for the meantime.
"You can assign them to the other psychiatrist. I left some data about them in my desk. You can get it and endorsed it to some of the psychologists in the Penitentiary House." Sab said.
"Okay, Doc. Will do. Anything else?"
"Ah, no Martha. You have been helpful. Thank you." That ended the call. They first part of the photo shoot is done but there are more things to do considering Luffia wanted to have sort of documentation about ASL sisters foundation and that mainly involves them speaking in front of the camera.
"Doesn't this island have a stable signal?" Ann asked trying to lift her cellphone up in the air as if to catch some signal by doing so. They are currently in the gardens of the Villa. It was well maintained and the scenery is good. They did some photo shoots in this area as well but the opted to take a break and eat first.
"Maybe they are doing some maintenance." Vivi suggested and she is not far off.
"They do and sometimes the signal can be stable, but most of the time, it's not." Kaimie said.
Everyone shrugged this. It's not like they have some important things or calls. Besides, this is like a vacation of some sort.
As everyone turned their attention to Koala who was a bit frustrated because all Luffia does is smile and grin in front of the camera with and as their photographer, she wanted more expressions, sexy expressions.
"Can you be a bit more sexy?" Koala is on the verge of giving up.
"Sexy? But how? Isn't a woman sexy enough by just smiling?" Everyone fell silent to that. Sometimes, Luffia can blurt the most logical words out of nowhere.
"I know, but we have to make your expressions not too…childish?" Ann and Sab looked at each other with a silent agreement. They knew for sure that Koala was about to say 'idiotic' instead of childish.
Ann stood up, motioning Sab to follow her. No choice then but to pull something to make this work for everyone.
"Hey Lu!" Ann called out to their youngest. Ann and Sab had a food on their hands perfectly coaxing Luffia to drool at the sight.
"You're hungry right?" Sab asked. The twins positioned themselves behind Koala who was in front of the camera.
Luffia nodded, almost drooling at the sight of the food displayed.
Every girls present looked at the twins with the hint of confusion.
"Look at the camera and think of how hungry you are, how much you wanted the food and how much you wanted to devour it." Sab asked and dangled the snacks at the level of the camera.
"We'll give you these snacks if you do as what you've been told."
Immediately, Luffia looked at the camera like she wanted to eat it so badly, like meat.
Koala immediately did snaps of camera while Luffia is doing as what she have been told and precisely, they got the results.
Luffia put his two fingers on his lips and eyed the camera as if she is eyeing the food she is about to devour. She has that look of a hungry beast.
"Grip your hair like you're about to become a crazy beast because of hunger then look at the camera." Ann instructed and Luffia did as what she has been told.
Everyone stared at Luffia, gaping and mouth hanging open with shock. She turned into a model in a speed of seconds just because she was bribed with food. No surprise, really as this is Luffia they are talking about.
After the snaps, Koala immediately scanned the pictures taken.
"Wow. She can be a living goddess of seduction if she wanted to be. Get ready for a possible suitors once this has been published." Koala whistled and the twins distractedly looked at the pictures. Luffia took this time to snatch the snacks away from their hands and ate ALL of it.
The twins are not sporting a grim look. Their aura turned darker at the mention of suitors.
"Not if we can prevent it." The twins grimly nodded with silent agreement to murder any posing suitors or perverts that would dare to go near Luffia. If they don't kill those men, for sure, their father will and anyone who would try anything funny to Luffia will meet an impending doom.
Everyone sweat dropped at their sister complex but they went on with the photo shoot.
During lunch, Sab and the others who can cook a decent meal went to the kitchen of the villa to prepare food for everyone. They did not bring Sanji for they wanted to avoid some major nosebleeds coming from him.
The lunch went on like usual: ASL sisters stole food from each other's plates and sometimes to the person near them while the girls around them guarded their food as if their life depended on that which is quite literally.
After lunch they proceed to do whatever they wanted, stroll on the beach or arrange the next events for the evening so they could do documentations as well.
Ann took this chance to find a good signal for her phone. She needed to contact Marco. She haven't texted him since morning because Luffia dragged her to this island which has an unstable signal.
At long last, she was able to find a stable signal, at least stable enough to make a voice call. She and her sisters are lodging in the nearby palm tree. Sab and Luffia are both lying on the hanging cradle while Ann is now scanning her phone since there were missed calls and text messages that he was not able to read.
Most text messages came from Marco asking how she was doing and what she is doing. Ann decided to make a call to Marco and hoped that he is free.
After a few rings, he answered.
"Ann…"
"Hi, Marco! Sorry, I did not send a reply. I have a phone signal problems here in the… Where is this place again?"
"Sunny Islands." Sab answered Ann.
"Yeah, Sunny Islands."
"Oh that's fine. So you were at the beach." Marco's monotone is slightly suspicious to Ann but she ignored it.
"Yes, with my sisters and some of our friends. This is not a planned vacation, mind telling you. Luffia literally dragged me here along with Sab."
"Oh, I see. You seem to enjoy the beach, yoi."
"Well, the beach here is beautiful. You should see it. I know you will love it and their gardens are amazing. Then we will explore the island tomorrow and the water falls would be good. You would love it here."
She can hear him chuckle.
"Yes, I hope we get to visit that Island together, yoi."
"Is that a date then?" Ann asked with hint of excitement.
"Of course. You seem to be enjoying your stay there judging from the pictures you sent, yoi." Marco's tone are a bit teasing but Ann frowned. She sent pictures?
"Pictures? What pictures?" she asked confusedly. She never remembered sending pictures and what pictures would it be? She did not take any pictures at all.
As if on cue, the devil took the cellphone from Ann. The eldest was not able to react at all.
"Is that Marco? Hi, Marco! Did you like the pictures? Did you like it?" Luffia is a bit excited to know Marci's reaction or thoughts about the picture she took. On the background, Sab is snickering at the whole situation.
"Ah, so you're the one who sent it."
"Yup! It's amazing right?" Luffia is grinning from ear to ear while Ann is fuming at the scenario.
"Luffia! What pictures are you talking about?!"
"Oh, she was talking about these." Sab showed Ann the copies of the pictures in her cellphone. Ann hastily took the device looking at the pictures that was taken during the photo shoot while Luffia is still talking to Marco.
Suffice to say, Ann's cheeks turned red at the display of pictures that were no doubt sent to Marco. What would Marco say?
"Luffia!" Ann shouted and stomped angrily towards her naïve sister currently talking to her boyfriend.
"Ann! Marco loves them! They loved the pictures." Ann froze in front of Luffia as she continued to talk to Marco. "I'll send more pictures to you. Okay. Yup, no worries. No men around the area, well except Usopp but he has a girlfriend already so nothing to worry about. Yup! I will guard her no matter what. Okay, I'll give the phone to her now." Luffia gave the phone to Ann but before she took it, she declared: "I'll kill you later." With a glare, she took the phone nervously.
"Marco?" she hesitantly asked.
"Now, that clear things up. I thought you were the one who sent them, yoi."
"I'll kill my sisters later." She promised then sent a glare towards her twin sister who no doubt had something to do with the pictures.
Marco chuckled at her outburst. He finds it endearing that she can be overprotective of her sisters one second then trying to kill them the moment they did something to embarrass or pull a prank on her.
"It's quite fine. I just had mixed emotions with the pictures." Marco admitted.
"And that is?" Ann quirked.
"While I find them great, they are quite distracting especially if sent in the middle of the meeting. I already have Izou on my tracks."
"Oh. So you liked them, huh? Are you perhaps asking for more?" Ann meant it as a joke – a half meant joke.
"I prefer to have my sanity intact, yoi."
Ann laughed at Marco's comment. They talked as if they are in their own world while Sab and Lu are busy searching something in the internet, at least Lu is.
"What are you trying to search in the internet?" Sab asked.
"Marco's pictures. I'll show it to Ann." Luffia is eager to check pictures and probably plans to make Ann more uncomfortable.
"Why?" Sab asked curiosity in her voice.
"she makes funny ." Ok, it's officially sold. Luffia has developed a good habit of tormenting Ann. Luffia seems to enjoy looking for pictures through internet since Marco is a known socialite and celebrity. Good thing that Nami taught her to Google something but it will backfire since she is using it for devious reasons.
"Sab, look, look." The blonde twin looked over the cellphone and saw what Luffia was referring to and Sab quirked. What Luffia showed her sister are pictures of Marco, topless near the sports car that he probably endorses and Sab would daresay, he looked gorgeous in that picture.
"Hmm, you can show it to Ann." Sab gave a thumbs up as Luffia sat up excitedly and walked her way to Ann who was so busy flirting with her boyfriend.
"Ann, Ann, look!" Luffia shoved the very hot picture of Marco directly in Ann's eyesight making the eldest of the three to blush furiously.
"What the hell, Lu?!" she shouted. Her heart is not prepared to see that picture.
"It's Marco's picture. I searched for it." As if that answers everything.
"You gotta warn someone before you show that!"
"Duh, Ann. Marco is just topless in that picture. What's wrong? He's your boyfriend after all." Sab made her way to the other two. Luffia is still grinning like a madwoman looking at the funny reaction of Ann.
"Even so!" Ann argued to her younger twin who just rolled her eyes.
"Marco! Marco! Ann is blushing. She's shy." Luffia shouted loud enough for Marco to hear it even though Ann still has her cellphone.
Before Ann could respond and reprimand her youngest and devilish sister, Sab spoke out her mind to even torment Ann.
"Oh, she is very much blushing. She is trying to imagine Marco in front of her, probably topless or…" Sab trailed off the word which is actually naked. Ann's eyes went wide as she realized what Sab is talking about and even if the eldest brunette would will herself to shove the idea of a very naked Marco out of her mind, she cannot, not when she imagined it before.
Luffia looked over to Sab, not knowing what she meant (She's still slow to pick up thoughts.)
"What is she trying to imagine, Sab?" Luffia asked loudly.
"Nothing! I'm imagining Marco is his birthday s- nothing!" Sab snickered at Ann's temperament. She can burst out due to embarrassment and blurt things out that shouldn't be.
"Birthday what?" Luffia asked innocently.
"Nothing, Lu." Ann was shaking her head denying any thought but it appears Luffia can be spontaneous.
"Birthday suit?" Silence dreaded the air. Luffia sked it loudly and Ann knew too well that Marco heard it.
"Oopsie…" Sab muttered as what was said is dead straight on the target. The doctor slowly walked away from a embarrassed and fuming Ann. It seems they pushed the buttons too far this time.
Luffia, the ever devious and innocent Luffia laughed loudly at Ann's fuming face. The freckles are so visible and a blushing Ann is a sight to see.
"Hahaha. Ann is blushing! Marco! Ann is blushing!"
"Luffia…"she called out with a warning. Sab internally winced. This would result in an all out brawl judging from the way Ann is glaring at bother Luffia and Sab.
"We better run." Sab whispered to Luffia. Good thing her brains are working fine as she nodded in agreement and they sped up before Ann could react.
"I am going to kill you both! Marco, sorry I have to hung up. I'm just going to kill my sisters."
The ever forgotten Marco during the sisters' banters spoke with calm and cool demeanor but with a hint of amusement.
"Ok, good luck to your hunt."
"Ok, bye. Love you." Then Ann hung up before both of them can comprehend what she just said.
Oh well.. Guess they would ponder that topic the next time they get to talk…
===XXX===XXX===XXX===
Zoro had his plans of the day.
Train.
Eat then drink Sake.
Sleep.
Train again.
Sleep.
Eat then drink Sake
Ignore paper works
The usual routine but right now, his supposed need readjustments as Luffia gave him a call.
"Zoro. I'm bored." Zoro sighed and looked at the time. It is past 4 pm already and as far as he remembered, she should be at Sunny Islands with her sisters and other friends. There are many things they could do in the island, so the swordsman wonders how she could be bored.
"And?" Zoro decided to sit comfortably on his couch. This conversation might be long considering she is bored like always.
"Everyone is busy. Ann is sleeping. Sab is trying to finish some work. Nami is out shopping with Robin and Vivi at the next island. Caimie is trying to sort out costumes with Pappagg and Kaya." She sounds like a whining child. Normally, Zoro would not have any patience about this but spending time with her almost 24/7 for the past years developed his patience when she is whining that she is bored.
"Why didn't you go with them?" Zoro raised his legs to rest in the small table in front of the couch and found himself in a more comfortable sitting position.
"Shopping is boring. The meeting they will have for costumes seems serious and I already had input in that department. Sab seems to be so busy with impending works since she will be out of the office because of photo shoot. Then Ann is sleeping. I can't wake her up."
"And what do you want me to do about it?"
Long silence then…
"Zoro…" Luffia whined again. Years of being best friends with this woman made Zoro muster the patience to ride her abruptness and adventures.
"Okay, okay. What do you want me to do?"
"Can you come over? Please?"
Zoro snorted. She wanted him to go to Sunny Islands just because she is bored out of her mind?
"Are you serious?"
"Do I sound like I'm kidding? You can fly through helicopter with Usopp or Franky or Sanji." Zoro snorted. He wouldn't be inviting Sanji to come with him. Not in this lifetime. He would just bleed out just imagining that there are several women in Sunny Islands in their swimsuits. They all kept this a secret from him so they could avoid him on coming to the island itself.
"I won't bring shit cook with me! But I will ask Usopp. Kaya is there so he might come."
"Yehey! Hurry! I'm so bored!" And now she is extra demanding after sweet talking Zoro into coming to the island.
"Fine, fine. We should be there in an hour or so. You can entertain yourself while waiting." Zoro suggested since the travel will take at least 20 minutes in helicopter.
"But that's the problem Zoro! There's nothing to do!"
"I don't care. Just get something to eat or whatever." He shouldn't have said that. Now, she will go and raid the kitchen.
"Good idea! I'll go get something to eat while waiting for you guys." With that, Luffia hung up, probably to raid the kitchen for food. Speaking of food, he should buy something first for Luffia before going to the island.
Zoro dialed Usopp's number. They might be busy in the garage, but as far as Zoro knows, they are almost done and the testing of the cars will happen the day after tomorrow.
With a few rings, Usopp answered.
"Hey zoro! What's up? You never usually call." Usopp greeted. Judging from how quiet Usopp's background is, Zoro is assuming that he is inside his office to do reports.
"Yeah. I want you to come with me. We're going to Sunny Islands. Use the helicopter to get there. Luffia is bored."
Zoro cannot see Usopp's expression. Clearly, that expression states that he knew better than to be surprised that Zoro will go to the island just because Luffia is bored. Sometimes, Usopp wonders if Zoro can even say no her requests and vice versa.
For the years that Usopp knew them, he witnessed how they are too close – okay, totally understandable since they are best friends but they just prioritize each other too much. Whenever Zoro requests something, Luffia is quick to say yes. Sometimes, their closeness rivals that of girlfriend- boyfriend relationship.
"Okay, fine. Kaya is there so might as well come. When are we leaving?"
"Just ready the chopper within an hour. I'll get something first then off we go. Remember; do not mention this to the shitty cook. We don't want him to fret over."
Usopp agreed to it then went to the hangar where the helicopters are being maintained. He told Franky aboiut the trip and he just said good luck and that the helicopter is ready.
Meanwhile, Zoro went to get food for Luffia. He went to Baratie to get food. Even if he does not want to, this restaurant's food is still Luffia's favorites. Well next to her mom's cooking.
"Shitty Marimo, what are you doing here? Got lost?" Sanji mocked him. As much as Zoro wanted to fight with this shitty cook, he has to go to Sunny Islands now.
"Shut it. I am going to order a take out for Luffia." With his reason, Sanji immediately went back to kitchen to make food for Luffia.
As soon as he was done cooking, he gave the food to Zoro who paid for it and off he go back to the Thousand Sunny Building (after getting lost twice).
He went straight to the helipad where he found Usopp ready to go.
He nodded at his friend and went to deposit the food at the back of the helicopter's driver seat. Usopp will be the pilot and since Zoro does not know how to operate this complicated thing, he will just watch him do his thing.
Zoro is just arranging the food for Luffia. He remembered that he had a few clothes to wear for the next days stored in Sunny Islands so he don't have to worry about it. He will just post announcement to his students that he will not be around for a few days.
The green haired swordsman was about to signal Usopp to start the engine when his phone rang. He fetched his phone and looked at the screen. Tashigi is calling.
"Hello." He greeted normally. Sometimes, it is hard how he should act to his girlfriend.
"Hi. Are you busy?" she asked.
"Well, not really. Just normal." He can't say that he is busy, well, he could be considering that he will depart any minute now. "Why?"
"I just want to cook for dinner tonight but you don't have enough ingredients in the fridge. Seriously, your fridge is almost useless. So you even do groceries?" Zoro does groceries, but the thing is whenever he does, the next day or within the day, it will be gone since Luffia constantly raids it and as soon as Tashigi will check on them, she will find nothing as the food went to Luffia.
"I do, sometimes." He plainly said. He cant tell her that Luffia is raiding them every time she decides to visit.
"Whatever. Anyway, can you come home early? Let's do groceries together and then I'll cook dinner or we can eat outside. What do you think?" Zoro fell silent and cursed inwardly. It did not cross his mind to let Tashigi know he will be absent for a few days.
"The thing is, I can't." She fell silent this time and Zoro decided to continue his explanation. "I will be travelling to Sunny Islands with Usopp right now. I'm not sure how long we would be there, probably 3 days or so."
A sigh escaped from Tashigi.
"Okay. Good luck then but I hope next time you should let me know you will be gone for a few days." Did it ever cross your mind to let me know in the first place? Tashigi dreaded to ask.
Zoro blinked at himself.
"Yeah, I'll keep that in mind."
With that, they bid goodbyes.
As soon as the call ended, Zoro and Usopp travelled to the Sunny Islands while Tashigi ponder at her thoughts: When would she be the priority in his life?
As soon as Luffia saw the helicopter's arrival, she bolted to the rooftop designed as helipad. She brightly smiled at Zoro and Usopp.
"Hey!" she shouted at them.
"Yo, Luffia!" Usopp greeted from the driver's seat.
Luffia ignored him, in favor of going to Zoro who just got off from the passenger's seat of helicopter. She smiled brightly at him then held her hand as if to ask fro alms.
Zoro gave him the raised eyebrow expression and she replied something like: 'You know what I mean' look. He shook his head but smiled at her. Timing and Usopp turned off the engine and got off.
"Hey, Luffia. Where's Kaya?"
"She's helping Papagg and Caimie."
"Ok. I'll just go see her then. Please don't touch anything in the helicopter. We don't want any accidents like the last time." The last time he was talking about was when Luffia got bored and find the helicopter interesting. No one knows how she did it, but she managed to make the helicopter's engine overheat and caused some sparks which she blatantly said looks like fireworks. She's as bad as Ann who set things on fire.
"I won't! Promise!" She raised her hand as if to indicate that she is indeed serious but Usopp gave her a suspicious look. Well, as long as Zoro is there, he would probably stop her from being too hyperactive or cause accidents. Probably…
Usopp bid his goodbye and left the two of them.
"Zoro… I smell something nice inside the helicopter." Luffia smiled brightly at him.
"Yeah, yeah. You already know." Zoro took the boxes with food in it and handed some to Luffia so he could help him bring it to the kitchen.
"Are these for me?" she gladly took two boxes which she wanted to open right there and then except for when Zoro warned her to wait until they get to the kitchen.
"Yes, and eat it in the dining area. Let's go." She merrily walked with him and of course, sine both are idiots, they end up getting lost in the hallway facing a dead end with portraits and pictures of the entire SHI.
"I'll lead the way." Luffia walked to the correct direction since kitchen in her favorite area.
As soon as they arrive the kitchen, they set down the boxes of food and she immediately started to gulp down the food he brought while he went to the Sake stack and took out two bottles.
Luffia muttered a thanks in between of her eating while Zoro grunted while drinking Sake through the bottle.
This is the exact scenario the twins saw as they arrived in the kitchen witnessing that their sister is eating what appears to be food from Baratie.
"Ah, Luffia, give us some food!" Ann exclaimed, immediately getting her own plate and checked the box that most likely contains food. "Zoro, did you bring this food?" Ann asked then started eating. Sab with all her stealth ways has started eating.
"Yeah. Took it from shitty cook." He drank one gulp of Sake again.
"No fair. Why are you only bringing food to Luffia? What about us?" Sab asked with a hint of hurt feelings but she continued to eat nonetheless. Zoro is the closest guy friend Luffia ever had and eventually, the twins became close to him but of course, he still favors Luffia. Over the years, the overprotective sisters grew attached to Zoro and treated him like a brother and trust him enough to take care of Luffia.
"What? You're eating what I brought, aren't you?"
"We are eating because we came here. Technically, you would let Luffia hog all the food and if we ask if there are some for us, you would just answer Luffia ate it all without a care!" Ann argued at the green haired man making him snort but did not deny the fact that he does not care about who eats the food as long as Luffia can eat first.
"See! You're so unfair!" Sab pointed out at him. "What are you doing here anyway?"
"Is that the right way to ask the person who brought you food?" he smugly asked Sab who just rolled her eyes at him.
"You're as bad as Law." She just answered. Zoro shrugged it and continued to drink.
"Are you going to help with the shoot?" Ann asked.
"I can. Depends on my mood." He nonchalantly said.
The twins shrugged his nonchalance. They are far too used to his boring replies. He is the type of person who responds with interest as long as the topic interests him. He is rather responsive to every requests Luffia asks no matter where he is, he would immediately go to where Luffia is.
As soon as they were done doing whatever they needed to do, everyone gathered once more to take photos during sunset. They changed into another pair of swimsuits to take their own shots. Zoro has to be a camera man and take videos for the whole documentation part.
Watching Luffia do all those sexy posts makes him blush and he is trying so hard not to stare too much. It is inappropriate to watch her with so much intensity. He does not care about the other ladies in front of him. Sure, he finds them sexy and gorgeous but Luffia has this certain effects on her. She got charisma that he sometimes cannot refuse – or precisely most of the time he cannot refuse.
Maybe it got something to do with how loyal he is to her.
Maybe something about them being bestfriends.
Or maybe because of certain irked feelings he has been feeling for years and he is trying to ignore it (and will continuously do so).
He shook his head. Sake is really affecting his mind these days.
Around 8 pm, they held a bonfire at the beach, toasting marshmallows and just enjoying the night. They stayed there for a couple of hours before everyone decided to take a much needed sleep.
The villa can very well be a mansion. It has lots of rooms, more like a resort hotel. Right now, Zoro is staying in his designated room across Luffia's. Usopp stayed with Kaya in the same room earning a few teasing from the group.
Luffia stayed with her sisters in the same room. After all, Zoro knew too well that they are used to sharing.
In the middle of the night, he woke up feeling thirsty so he decided to go to the kitchen and get water. There, he finds Luffia, in his sleeping shorts and tank top, hugging her pillow and looked so glum and worried.
"Luffia…" He called out. She looked at him with a sad expression. She must have encountered another nightmare.
Zoro took a seat next to her.
"You want to talk about it?"
"Dad is in danger. Some guys are trying to harm him and we were not able to do anything." She was on the verge of crying and he hated seeing that. This is not the first time she had a nightmare.
"Your dad is strong. He can take care of himself and if he can't, you must have forgotten that he got your mom with you and he has lots of good friends to defend him."
"You think so?" This is one of the rare times when Luffia is vulnerable, fragile. When Zoro first saw her like this, he immediately vowed to himself that he would not let anyone harm her much less make her cry or upset. He would always be there for her whenever she needs him, even at the most petties reason such as boredom.
"Yes." Luffia's face lightens up a bit. At least, she's almost back to her normal self.
"Thanks, Zoro!" She smiled genuinely at him, causing a flutter of emotion flowing in his heart. It makes him happy that she is happy.
"Are you going back to sleep?" he asked. He knew too well that even though she already have reassurance coming from him, she won't be able to sleep really well and knowing her, she don't want to wake up her sisters.
"I'll try."
"Come on. You can sleep in my room." Zoro stood up and went to get water first.
"Really?"
"Yeah. Come on. We don't want you to be cranky tomorrow." In an instance, Luffia went to hug Zoro and muttered a thank you to him making him shiver at the sudden contact. Why has he been so sensitive and jumpy around her lately?
They went upstairs in Zoro's room. They went to bed silently. Luffia snuggled at Zoro, treating his chest as a pillow, and he does not mind at all. He just put his arms around her protectively and they drifted to sleep…
AN:
THANK YOU FOLKS FOR LIKNG THE PREVIOUS CHAPTER. IT WAS NOT PLANNED, SERIOUSLY, BUT WELL, I DID IT NONETHELESS.
I KNOW THAT TASHIGI IS HAVING A HARD TIME AND TO BE HONEST, IT PAINS ME TOO SINCE I AM SHIPPING ZORO AND TASHIGI ONLY IF LUFFY IS NOT LUFFIA.
IT IS CERTAINLY PAINFUL FOR A WOMAN TO REALIZE THAT SHE IS NOT MAN'S PRIORITY AND NEVER WILL BE BECAUSE IN THIS STORY'S PERSPECTIVE, ZORO IS MORE FOCUSED ON HIS SWORDSMANSHIP TRAINING AND LUFFIA. THOSE CAME ON THE SAME LEVEL. WHILE TASHIGI WILL NEVER BE HIS PRIORITY, SHE NEVER DID, NOT ONCE IN HIS LIFE.
ANYWAYS, EXPECT TO HAVE SURPRISES. KIDD AND SAB'S LOVE STORY WILL HAVE A TURNING POINT SOON.
SOMEONE ALSO POINTED OUT THAT THEY WANTED TO SEE SOME FANS SCREAMING 'KYAAA' AT OUR BACHELORS… HMM, SOME IDEAS ARE RUNNING IN MY MIND AND THAT MIGHT APPEAR IN THE UPCOMING CHAPTERS… WE'LL SEE.
WHILE I AM ON THE ROLL… I WANT TO PROMOTE ANOTHER STORY OF MINE. Fates of the Hidden Word
STILL ABOUT ASL SISTERS BUT THE WRITING STYLE IS SO DIFFERENT PLUS IT IS FANTASY/SUPERNATURAL. OF COURSE, ROMANCE WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN AS EVERY ADVENTURES INVOLVES ROMANCE.
YOU WILL SEE A WHOLE DIFFERENT ASL SISTERS IN THERE.