Kaku sat up slowly, the bandages wrapped around his body preventing him from moving too quickly.
Where am I?
He dizzily looked at his surroundings. He was in a small room in what looked to be an abandoned wooden house. The lack of light and the several holes in the ceiling had made it obvious.
Jabra stood over Kaku's bedside, trying to get a look at his eyes. "Hey! You're awake!" The wolf man screamed in pain as his tail popped out, having injured his back with his fight against Sanji. "About damn time!" He smirked at his younger comrade.
Kaku looked around once again. "How long have I been out for?" He rubbed his head.
Jabra sat on the floor cross legged, picking something out of his teeth. "You've been out for a week." He quickly pushed Kaku back down before he could shoot up from surprise. "It's fine. The rest of us are doing some street acts to raise some funds for Lucci." He sighed, their leader's condition seemingly getting worse.
Kaku winced as he stepped out of bed. "Raise funds? Just take it out of my bank account. I have more than enough-" He stopped as Jabra shook his head.
Jabra looked at Kaku, a seriousness replacing the smile he had earlier. "Long story short; we're wanted by the World Government. That piece of shit Spandam threw us under the bus for the Enies Lobby disaster. They've frozen our bank accounts and are hunting for us as we speak." Jabra clenched his jaw, preparing himself to stop Kaku from making any sporadic movements.
Kaku looked at the ground as he processed the information. "Does that mean...CP9..."
Jabra made a gunshot noise with his mouth. "Kaput. We're fugitives now."
Kaku's eyes lit up, forgetting his injuries as he hugged Jabra. "JABRA! We're free!" He screamed as he felt one of his wounds open up, falling onto the floor.
The wolf man sneered as he looked down at him. "What the hell is wrong with you?! Have you lost your mind?!" He took a step back as Kaku began to laugh.
Kaku sighed happily. "I'm free! That means...I can go back for Kate." He imagined how she would react when she saw him again.
Kalifa ran into the room, still wearing Jabra's jacket. "Jabra! Quickly! Lucci is seizing up again!"
Jabra and Kalifa ran towards the room Lucci was in.
Kaku got up slowly and limped towards Lucci's room. He gasped when he saw the condition he was in.
Since they were children; Lucci had always been so strong, so composed. Seeing him in his current state almost made him sick due to how unrecognizable he was.
Kaku clenched his fists, knowing what he had to do. The ex CP9 members were the only family he had; and family looked after one another...no matter what. "Kalifa, where is Fukuro?" Kaku focused to keep him from feeling the pain radiating throughout his body.
Kalifa shot him a worried look. "He's in the kitchen. Kaku, your injuries..."
Kaku shook his head. "I'm fine. Lucci needs us."
The long nosed man huffed as he stood in the doorway. "Listen here! I ain't wearin' a leash! Giraffes aren't dogs!" He crossed his arms.
Fukuro sighed. "Chapapa! But it looks more professional this way chapapa!"
Kaku stomped out the door. "I'm not wearing a leash. Got it?"
Kaku looked around the streets of St. Poplar as people pointed and gasped. He was in his giraffe form, led by Fukuro.
The green haired boy shouted. "COME ONE! COME ALL CHAPAPA! A real live GIRAFFE! Pet him, ride him, SLIDE him! Chapapa!"
Dozens of kids lined up to ride the "Giraffe Slide". While Kaku was glad he could help earn some money; it was still extremely degrading.
A little girl with black pigtails and an orange haired boy lined up together. Seeing them made Kaku's heart race.
If him and Kate made a baby; would the baby look like the girl or the boy? He started to chuckle as he thought about Kate pregnant, waddling through the streets of Water 7.
We could just keep trying until we had one of eac-
A boy knocked him on the head. "Stop laughing! You're making the slide all shaky!"
Kaku sighed, but continued to smile.
Wait for me a bit longer, Kate.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Iceburg had enrolled Kate in a therapy program at a private medical institute to help cope with her loss.
The first few months were mostly spent sedated in bed. When Iceburg had told her what had happened, she attempted to take her own life...feeling unable to deal with the pain and guilt. She had attempted several times, only stopping when Iceburg had told her they couldn't have a funeral as there were no bodies to bury.
Kate couldn't shake the feeling that they were all still alive. The chances of Kalifa, Lucci, Blueno and Kaku all presumed dead without their bodies found was far too convenient. They must have been taken captive by the World Government.
Since that day; Kate worked hard so that she would be able to return home. Once discharged; she spent most of her time reading books on both solved and unsolved mysteries, most of them revolving around cases of missing people. She was determined to find where her friends had gone.
Iceburg and Paulie caught wind of this. Knowing the truth; they had bought any remaining books regarding crimes, mysteries, and missing people from the stores. They had hoped that it would help stop Kate's obsession. Although she had returned to work; it seemed as if she was nothing but a hollow shell most of the time, her normally bubbly self replaced by someone unrecognizable. Originally; Kate was to take over Kalifa's job. However, due to her state at the time- Iceburg had to throw a hiring fair in order to find a new secretary. Luckily, he was able to find a new secretary, who was an extremely bright 10 year old girl. He didn't want anyone who reminded him of Kalifa in the slightest.
Paulie and Iceburg had also made a point to immediately shut Kate down if she brought up, or asked any questions regarding the CP9 members. Iceburg had passed the memo to all members of Galley La, in case Kate talked to them about it. They constantly reminded her that she had to move on, and that she had to let go.
Kate didn't know if she had imagined them ever being there, but all the pictures of Kaku on the living room wall were gone. His belongings had disappeared as well. This added to her suspicion that he had been taken away, and not killed. However, there were days when she believed that maybe he truly was gone...
After all; most cases similar to that of Kaku's either remained unsolved, or ended with the police finding the bodies of the missing person elsewhere...
Kate laid in bed, feeling lower than usual. She thought about the last time she saw Kaku, and the time when the doctor had told her the news.
It's all my fault.
She imagined a variety of different scenarios. Most of all- she wished she had begged Kaku not to go. Kate knew how dangerous the situation was, and yet she let him go as if it were another day back at work. How could she be so foolish?
Our baby...
Her eyes began to water as she held her stomach. She had been so worried about finding Kaku that she had neglected her own well being, thus neglecting the needs of the baby.
Iceburg had begged for Kate to forgive him, saying it was his fault. Every time she would shake her head in reply. It wasn't anyone's fault but hers. She failed to protect the two most important things in her life, and now they were both gone.
Kate slammed her fist repeatedly into the pillow as she sobbed. Why did it hurt so much? Was there something she could have done?
Why didn't I stop him from going?!
When would the pain end?
Kate knew deep down that the right thing to do was to try and get over Kaku. How could she move forward in life if she kept hanging onto the past? What would Kaku say if he saw her like this? She begged the universe, saying she would do anything to free herself from the constant hurt she had been feeling.
Please...tell me what to do...what do I do...?
Her thoughts continued to race as she opened the top drawer of her bedside table; running her fingers along a pack of razor blades...
*Puru Puru Puru Puru Puru*
The ringing of her transponder snail snapped her out of her trance, causing her to slam the drawer shut.
She wiped her eyes as she ran to the living room to pick it up.
"Hello?"
A high nasally voice came through the phone. "Kate! It's Jenna. Rick's wife."
"Ah yes, Jenna! How are you?"
"I'm fabulous! Just wanted to give you a call and make sure you were coming tonight? I'm hosting."
Kate hit her face with her palm.
Crap...is that tonight?!
"Of course! Sorry I didn't reply sooner. I will be there!"
Iceburg had asked the wives of several Galley La workers who would gather frequently to invite Kate into their group. Kate spent most of her time alone when she wasn't at work, and thought it would help with her recovery. At first Kate declined, but due to the persistence of the women of the group; she finally gave in.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
7 women sat around in a Victorian style living room. Although the room looked rather lavish; the women were dressed in simple outfits.
Kate wore black harem style joggers and a beige scoop neck long sleeve. She carried a tray of cheesecake sticks she had baked. "I'm so sorry I'm late!"
She placed the tray on the coffee table alongside other treats.
A large lady with short blonde hair named Patricia touched Kate's leg as Kate took a seat beside her. "Kate! We were just talking about you..."
Kate blushed as she poured herself a cup of tea. "Oh?!"
Jenna, a middle aged woman with long brown hair and glasses raised her eyebrows twice. "Your birthday is coming up, isn't it?!"
The rest of the ladies replied with an excited "OoooOoooo!"
Kate laughed nervously as she drank her tea, accidentally burning her tongue. "Yeah, but I usually don't do anything. It's just another day, really..." She smiled at the ground sadly. Kaku had promised that they would spend the week on Monogatari for her birthday that year...
The ladies silently drank their tea and ate, feeling awkward since they knew what Kate had been doing for several months.
Patricia huffed as she looked at the other ladies, and then at Kate. She grabbed Kate by the shoulders before slapping her on the face.
Patricia's husband was older, and often had trouble with the constantly changing procedures at Galley La. Kate had always made the extra effort to help him so he wouldn't be left behind. Patricia and her husband were extremely grateful for this, and would often invite Kate and sometimes Kaku (if he were free) over for dinner at their house. Patricia never had the chance to have kids, and saw Kate as somewhat of a daughter figure.
Jenna jumped from her seat. "PATRICIA!"
Patricia looked Kate in her eyes. "Kate, you're young, you're beautiful, and you're single. You need to make the most out of your youth!" She held a hand out towards the room. "We all know what you're going through...and I know it's hard. But you need to start looking after yourself. You deserve to have some fun!" She gently placed a hand on her cheek.
Kate was unsure how to react. "I...I have plenty of fun!" She faked a laugh.
Patricia raised a brow. "Reading? That's not the kind of fun I'm talking about..." She raised her eyebrows once again. "There are a lot of fine, young, strapping men who would love to spend a night with you...if you know what I'm saying?"
Does she mean...
Kate turned a bright red. "OH! NO! I don't think I could do that!" Kaku was the only man she had ever been with. Thinking about hooking up with a random stranger made her extremely uncomfortable.
The large woman folded her arms. "Why not?! Men can do it, so why can't women?! There are plenty of bars on Water 7!"
Another woman with a black bob cut chimed in. "Yeah, but they're mostly full of good for nothing pirates. If they're not causing trouble, they're spewing nonsense..."
A lightbulb seemed to go off inside of Kate's head.
Pirates...
Kaku and Kate's wherabouts were discovered because of information passed down at a bar. Pirates traveled the seas and ran into hundreds of people in a week...given how unique Kalifa, Lucci, Blueno and especially Kaku looked- perhaps someone would have seen them...
I just need to ask around...
Kate stood up immediately, a glimpse of her old self seeming to make a return. "That's a great idea! You know what? I think I'm going to go right now!" She waved a hand as she quickly ran out the door.
The ladies looked at each other dumbfounded, except for Patricia who puffed her chest with pride.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate made a list of the bars on Water 7. She would make her way to each one and ask any pirates if they had seen any of her missing friends.
Kate did this every night for 3 weeks, but to no avail. The bar owners knew of her situation but didn't dare tell Iceburg, as Kate brought in quite a bit of money for them by bribing pirates with drinks in hopes she'd gain information.
It was the day of her birthday.
Kate was feeling more exhausted than usual. Between working full time, her independent research, and staying in bars till early in the morning- it was now taking a toll on her body and her mental health. The anguish of being alone without Kaku on her birthday adding insult to the injury.
She slammed a fist against her bathroom mirror as she stared at her reflection.
What did she ever do to deserve all of this?!
Kate had always done her best to do the right thing. There were no specific events in her life that made her feel as if she deserved such punishment.
She grit her teeth. What if everything she was doing was for nothing?
Her mind began to spiral, but then Patricia's words from a month earlier rang in her ear.
"You deserve to have some fun!"
Kate recalled begging the universe for an answer as to how to make the pain end. Perhaps Patricia was the Universe's messenger...
She opened up her closet, pulling out a short, tight, black dress with a low back and low v-neck cut.
Kate would still ask any pirates if they'd seen Kaku and the others, but maybe...she would leave with one of them...
"Fuck it!"
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Cutter packed his large black backpack with clothes and other necessities. Kate hadn't written back to them since they had sent their pictures for her living room wall.
CP9 was now wanted by the World Government, and Cutter had no idea as to what Kaku had decided to do with Kate.
He knew what could happen when a World Government mission wasn't completed properly. He had asked his sources if there had been any hits put on Kate, but they had told him there weren't.
Was she okay? Was she alive?
No matter how many times he wrote to her; she wouldn't reply.
Although he was still a knight of the castle; the Red Raven Gang had been compromised, and CP1's mission on Monogatari had come to an end. This being the case; Cutter was granted time off every few weeks.
He decided that if he wanted to know how Kate was; he had no choice but to go to Water 7 and find out for himself.
Cutter groaned before knocking on the small wooden door.
Bacha grinned sheepishly as she saw Cutter. "Ah, General Cutter. How can I help you today?"
Cutter looked around to make sure no one saw him before entering. "I know about your awakened abilities. I want you to...use them on me."
Bacha froze, taking a step back. "How did you...never mind that. Tell me...are you aware of its consequences?" She raised a brow. Only a handful of people in the world knew of her awakened ability, and how he knew was a mystery to her.
Cutter rolled his eyes. "I wouldn't have asked if I didn't know the full extent of what I was getting into. 10 years of my life, right? That's fine." He laid down on a round wooden bed in the middle of the room, strange markings carved into it. "Do it.".
Bacha cackled as she grabbed a glowing black orb from her drawer. "As you wish..."
-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Iceburg knocked on Kate's door. He had bought her a present and a cake for her birthday. Kate insisted she didn't want to celebrate, but he didn't want her to be alone on such an occasion.
After several minutes had passed, Iceburg peeked through the windows. "Hm well...it seems as if no one is home..." He smiled happily, glad that Kate had gone out for her birthday.
I hope she enjoys herself today.
-.-.-.-.-.-.
Cutter walked along the streets of Water 7. It was lively since it was a Friday night. He wore black jeans, boots, and a grey button up, holding his backpack by one strap over his shoulder.
There were so many more lights, and the noise seemed obnoxious compared to Monogatari. He began to feel uncomfortable.
He shook his head.
No, I need to find her.
He looked at his watch. The trip had taken longer than expected, and it was now 11:00PM. It was too late to find her as she was probably asleep, so he figured he'd go to a bar to grab some food and some intel as to where everything was.
He opened the door to a small hole in the wall style tavern.
"What the hell?!"
Kate stood on top of a table, her dress slightly hiked up as she danced around in tall black heels. Her hair was curled and she wore red lipstick. She looked amazing, and to his disgust- the group of men surrounding her obviously agreed.
He pushed through the crowd to get closer to the table. "KATE!"
She was going off about something and her words were slurred.
Kate turned around sloppily, spilling a bit of the drink in her hand. "AW! CUTTER! What are you doing here?!" She smiled drunkenly and handed her drink to one of the men around the table. She walked across the table, jumping down onto Cutter as she wrapped her arms around his neck.
He hugged her, trying to prevent them from falling.
How drunk is she?!
The group of men began to holler.
Cutter tried to place Kate down, but she wrapped her legs around his waist. "No! I don't want to go down! I missed you. It's been so long." She played with his hair as she cuddled into him.
Cutter steadied his breathing. The whole situation was overwhelming and as much as he knew he should- he was having trouble pulling away.
Kate wrapped her legs around him tighter, and brought her mouth to his ear. "Besides, I don't think you want me to pull away either." She moved her hips forward slightly, grazing his hardened member.
Cutter blushed, forcing Kate off of him and taking her by the hand. "You're out of your damn mind! I NEED to get you home."
As he began to lead her out the door, the other men began to yell at him.
A large man with a black beard blocked their way. "No fair, man! We were here first! You can't just take her. We're the ones who got her drunk so we should have the fun!"
Cutter ignored him, grabbing Kate's wristlet from a chair for her.
The man put a hand on his gun. "We're part of the Grey Crib Crew! You don't want to mess with us!"
Cutter failed to contain his anger. "Pirates huh? Makes sense." He punched the man in the face; sending him crashing into a table.
He pulled several bills from his wallet and handed them to the bartender before exiting. "Sorry."
-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate wobbled around the streets as Cutter lead her by the hand. "Kate, where is your house?!" He was still angry that Kate had put herself in that situation and Kate being drunk was irritating him even more.
Why is she acting so cheap?!
She freed her hand from his grip and pulled out her Water 7 ID from her wristlet, holding it up to Cutter. "You could just check my ID." She chuckled and waved the card, still extremely intoxicated.
Before Cutter could grab it; she slipped it down her cleavage.
He blushed. "Kate! What the hell is wrong with you?! Ugh, forget it!" He grabbed her hand, but she refused to move. "What is it now?!"
She pouted at him. "My feet hurt."
He groaned, moving his backpack so he wore it against his chest. He crouched down in front of Kate. "Get on."
She happily crawled onto him rubbing her face against his. "You smell so good."
Cutter rolled his eyes. "And you smell like gasoline. Hang on tight." He began to walk, chuckling under his breath. If someone told him this is how his night was going to go; he never would have believed them.
He found a motel a few blocks away. It didn't seem like the best location due to its shabby appearance and neon signage, but he wanted to get Kate somewhere safe in case the pirates decided to follow them.
The room was simple. A red carpet, black walls, and a queen sized bed with red bed sheets.
Cutter laid Kate down carefully on the bed before removing his backpack.
He stretched out his body and went to check out the washroom quickly before returning. "Kate?"
She was still passed out on the bed. He removed her shoes carefully, placing them on the floor.
She probably hasn't eaten anything...
He turned off the lights as he left the room heading out to find some food. The man working the front desk told him there was a small restaurant that was open 24/7 a couple of blocks down.
How many months has it been?
As he walked through the streets he tried to process what was happening. It was obvious Kate was acting out probably due to Kaku's death...but how long had she been doing this? The warrant was released almost a year ago...
He turned as he heard a large group of men laughing obnoxiously.
A man with a striped blue shirt, shorts and a red toque pointed at Cutter. "Ay! Isn't that the bastard that took the girl?!" There were at least 12 of them as they all turned to Cutter; blood lust grins plastered on their faces.
He examined them carefully, remembering their disgusting figures and faces all lusting after Kate. To him; not a single one of them was worthy. They were pirates after all.
He remembered what Kaku had told him about what happened with Nash and it made his blood boil even more. She must have been going through a lot to voluntarily put herself in a similar situation.
He wasn't as forgiving as Kaku.
Cutter smirked. "I was hoping I'd run into you pieces of shit.".
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate sat up rubbing her eyes.
Oh crap, I'm sobering up..
She opened her wristlet and pulled out a green vial one of the pirates had given her. She was going to save it in case she was taken home by someone unsavory...
"One small sip of this is like taking 10 shots at once!"
Kate took the cap off, gagging as soon as she smelled it. She raised it in the air as if giving a toast.
"Cheers!"
Cutter swung the door open, putting the bags of food he had bought on the floor. He rushed over to Kate as she took a sip from the vial. "What the hell are you doing?!"
He grabbed the vial from her hand, but she had already taken a sip. She began to laugh uncontrollably.
Cutter examined the vial. "What the fuck did you drink?!" He took a swig; his training making him immune to poisons as well as helping him identify different poisons by tasting them.
He dropped the vial as soon as soon as he swallowed. "All I taste is Alcohol..." he grabbed his head as the room started spinning for a moment.
He felt his face start to burn.
What the... Why do I feel...
He laid on the bed, resting against the headboard as he kicked his shoes off onto the floor.
Am I drunk?!
Kate smiled devilishly and straddled him as she wrapped her arms around his neck.
He went to push her off, but instead his arms wrapped themselves around her waist. "Kate, why are you doing this?" He moved his hands up and down her back, feeling the curves of her body.
Fuck, she feels amazing...
She laughed, even more intoxicated than earlier. "I don't know if you heard... But Kaku died. Yeah... He's dead. Didn't have a funeral or anything." She took a deep breath, a smile still on her face. "Everyone keeps telling me to move on, and what better day to do it than my birthday?" She laughed more as she started to unbutton his shirt slowly.
Cutter fought with himself as he tried to keep it together, but his body over powered his logic. "What do you want me to do?" He watched her as she undid the last button, running a hand down his abs.
She looked at him lustfully before removing her ID from her cleavage, throwing it onto the bed. Kate leaned back slightly as she slid down the straps of her dress; revealing her bare breasts. "I think you know."
Cutter growled as he pulled her into him, sucking on her breasts voraciously, causing Kate to moan.
He slid her dress down further, his hands leaving no part of her untouched.
He pushed her off of him, removing the rest of his clothes. He kneeled over her as he stroked his hardened member.
His disbelief still managed to make it through his drunken mind. He was here with Kate, and would be joining her completely.
Kate's eyes were closed, the effects of the alcohol somehow getting stronger. She pulled her dress up and removed her underwear- revealing her entrance to Cutter, showing her wetness between her fingers.
Her mind was blank. Kate's body was in control and it screamed for release.
He lowered himself onto her, kissing her neck.
She pulled on his hair, arching her back as Cutter's member teased her. "Please...I need you." She grabbed his member bringing it closer. "I need you, Kaku."
Cutter immediately snapped out of his drunken state, Kaku's name seeming to strike a chord in him.
He rolled off of her, groaning as he hit his head with his fist.
Dammit...what the hell is wrong with me?!
He got up and began to put his clothes back on.
Kate sat up to call him, but in an instant her vision went black and she fell back onto the bed.
He looked at her sadly, the feeling of regret taking over. He was no better than the pirates that had tried to take advantage of how vulnerable she was earlier.
The warrant for CP9 was still active, which meant Kaku was alive. If he was going to have sex with Kate; he didn't want it to be because they were intoxicated. Kate meant more to him than a quick hook up after all.
Dumb ass.
Cutter began to put Kate's dress and underwear back on; careful not to wake her.
He looked at her ID on the bed. "17th Street?"
He remembered passing by a street numbered "22nd" not too long ago.
Cutter put on their shoes, and wore his backpack on his front again. He piggy backed Kate and made his way down to the lobby.
The front desk had given him directions to where 17th Street was.
Almost an hour had passed before Cutter made it to Kate's house. He fumbled through her wristlet for her keys, carefully opening the door with one hand.
"Shit..."
Her place was a mess. There were stacks of dishes in the sink, piles of unfolded laundry everywhere, and books about solved missing people cases strewn across the floor.
She must still believe he's alive...
He navigated his way through the narrow hallway to her room. Her room was surprisingly clean. The only thing on her bedside table was a box of tissues and a picture of her and Kaku from the festival on Monogatari. It was the only one she had left. One side of her bed was messy, while the other was neatly made.
That must be his side...
Cutter rolled his eyes, flipping the picture over.
He placed her on her bed, removing her shoes. He then rummaged through her drawers to find a night gown and some underwear.
The General paused; thinking of how to change her.
I've already seen her naked...I guess it doesn't make a difference at this point..
After removing her clothes, he stared at her naked body; playing back the earlier events in his head. Her taste, how her body felt...she was right there begging for him... He shook his head. No- begging for Kaku.
It took all his will power to stop himself from ravaging her body as he slid a lacy white thong up one of her legs.
"Cutter?" Kate smiled at him drunkenly.
He stopped, her smile catching him off guard. "Go back to sleep." He stood up, unsure of how drunk she was.
Kate began to pout. "Why don't you want me, Cutter?" She kneeled, squeezing her breasts together.
She's going to drive me nuts..
He groaned. "It's not that...I...you don't want me, you want Kaku." He figured she was still drunk, and what he said didn't matter.
She tugged at the bottom of his shirt. "Of course I do, but he's gone. He's dead. Everyone keeps reminding me..." She looked down for a moment before looking back up at him. "I just want to feel good...is that so wrong? Please?" She unbuckled his belt, sliding down his pants along with his underwear.
Cutter had been hard for so long without release that it was starting to hurt. Any other man would have given in by now.
He leaned his head back. "Kate...no...it's not right..." He closed his eyes, unsure if he was talking to himself or Kate. His eyes shot open and he let out a moan as Kate took him in her mouth.
Cutter was exhausted. Between the trip to Water 7, dealing with the pirates, a lack of food and Kate- he was finally reaching his limit.
Dammit..
"Kate...fuck." He pushed her head closer to him, causing her to gag. "If you wanna suck my cock so bad, I won't stop you." He continued to moan as she moved her tongue around him.
She pulled her mouth away completely, gasping for air as she smiled. "If you like my mouth, you'll definitely like my-"
He shoved himself back into her mouth, holding her head as he thrusted in and out.
If she asks me to fuck her, I know I won't be able to control myself...
Kate began to play with herself as Cutter continued to pleasure himself with her mouth.
Noticing this; he pulled himself out and pushed her onto her back. "Who said you could play with yourself?" He lifted her right leg and spanked her, causing her to scream. "Did I say you could touch yourself?"
She shook her head, her wetness becoming even more apparent.
He removed his shirt, keeping his eyes on Kate. "What do you want?"
Kate bit her lip. "I want to cum." She began to reach down but Cutter pinned her hands above her head as he laid naked on top of her.
"Say 'I want to cum, General.'" He grabbed her thong off of her leg and used it to tie her hands together.
Kate thought she would cum from his dominance alone. "I want to cum, General."
He smiled devilishly and closed her legs together. "Beg." He slid his body down until his mouth was by her core.
Kate began to pant, her body losing control. "Please, General...I need to cum! I need to cum!"
Cutter spread her legs, slamming his mouth into her crease.
Kate's back arched as he lapped at her; his tongue dancing around her bud. She couldn't control her moans.
Cutter could feel her body getting warmer.
Already? She must be getting close...
He shoved a finger into her, causing her to scream as he continued with his mouth. "Come on! Scream for me!" He continued to finger her faster.
Kate's whole body buckled as she climaxed, her body convulsing from the release she had been craving.
Cutter kneeled over her as he rubbed his member rapidly. "Open your fucking mouth."
Kate obeyed, a smile on her face as he released onto her.
He moaned before collapsing beside her. She drunkenly wiped her face before cuddling into his chest, throwing the tissue on the floor.
Cutter's feelings were conflicted. On one hand; he was with Kate. On the other; it was all a result of alcohol...there were no feelings involved on Kate's part. He looked at Kate who was now asleep, sighing before wrapping an arm around her.
Can't say no to the birthday girl...
He kissed her head before falling asleep.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
The crowd of people screamed as Lucci crushed the skull of the Candy Pirates' captain with his foot, killing him immediately.
People began to run in a panic, terrified by the scene that had taken place. At first they were grateful for their saviors, but seeing the brutality of them made them fear for their own lives.
Kalifa hit her palm against her head. "Lucci..."
The pigeon master who was still recovering spat on the body of the now deceased captain. "They deserved it. Anyways, we've over stayed our welcome here. It's time for us...to go home." The other members looked at him in shock.
Fukuro spoke up first. "Chapapa! Back to where it all started?!"
All the members knew the place Lucci was referring to. Though all the memories of it weren't fond- it was the closest thing they had to call home. It was where children were trained to become Cipher Pol agents.
Kaku adjusted his black cap. "Golly! It's been so long since I've been there..." He hadn't been there since he was dispatched to Water 7...
Water 7... soon...
With Lucci still injured; Kaku was now the strongest member of their group. This being the case; he felt an obligation to protect them until Lucci was back to full strength. Afterwards; he would make his way back to Water 7.
The members sailed upon the stolen pirate ship, celebrating as they landed on the familiar island.
Lucci stuck his hand out to silence his comrades. "It seems we were followed..."
Several marine ships appeared through the mist, lead by a man named "Very Good".
The CP9 members activated their abilities, ready to defend their home.
After defeating the Marines, Lucci grabbed the transponder snail that was ringing on the Captain's ship.
Spandam yelled into the transponder snail as wires held him up in his hospital bed. "Did you get them?! All of the bastards?!"
Lucci sneered, recognizing the purple haired coward's voice immediately. "Yes, we killed all of them. Spandam"
Spandam screamed, realizing who he was talking to. "YOU-HOW-I-"
Lucci held the transponder snail closer to his mouth. "Be prepared, Spandam. We will be coming for you."
Spandam laughed nervously. "Oh yeah?! Well- GOODBYE!" He hung up immediately, calling for his father.
Kalifa raised an eyebrow at their leader. "Are you really going to go after Spandam? But your injuries still aren't healed.." She adjusted her glasses.
The leopard man nodded his head. "As far as I know; it is only Spandam who truly wants us killed. Since he is no longer a commanding officer; if he dies then any orders or warrants issued by him will be canceled. As your leader; it is the only way I can guarantee your freedom. The longer I wait, the more chances the Marines and World Government will have to catch us. I need to act swiftly." For once; he smiled at his comrades sincerely. He was extremely grateful for how they had sacrificed so much in order for him to live, that he would risk it all in order to give them the freedom they deserved.
Kaku's mouth gaped at Lucci's words.
It is the only way I can guarantee your freedom..
Kaku stepped towards Lucci. "Then I'll go with you." Lucci was right- they wouldn't be free as long as they were hunted. What kind of life could he give Kate if he had to always be on the run? If he was going to be with Kate again, he would make it right this time. No running. No lies.
Lucci raised a brow at the Giraffe man. "Are you sure, Kaku? Don't you have other plans?" He wouldn't admit that he was nervous about going alone due to his injuries.
Kaku nodded his head. "I do have plans, but I can't execute them until we're free."
A voice called from above them. "KALIFA?! KAKU?! IS THAT YOU GUYS?!" The figure jumped down, landing in front of them.
A tall slender woman with long brown hair, and blue eyes smiled happily as she held her tight pink dress. "It's me! Melody!"
Kaku and Kalifa looked at her in shock.
"MELODY?!"
During training, they were usually divided into groups of 3. Kalifa, Kaku and Melody were usually assigned together and had become extremely close friends. Due to her overly kind nature; the World Government believed Melody wasn't fit to become a Cipher Pol agent. However, she was a prodigy when it came to the secret techniques and was hired as a teacher for new members.
Her eyes seemed to shimmer as she looked at Kaku. "Kaku, it's...so good to see you again." She blushed as she looked at the ground. Kaku had always been there to protect her, and had been her closest friend. Though they were young at the time; Melody had always been in love with him.
The long nosed man laughed. "It sure has! I'm glad to see you're still doin' well for yourself!" He smiled, happy to see his old friend again.
Melody signaled for them to follow her. "You must all be tired, follow me!"
There was an abandoned set of barracks on the island that Melody helped prepare for the ex CP9 members.
As the others settled in, Melody had asked Kaku if he would go on a walk with her.
I can't believe he's here...
She looked up at him shyly as they walked, still in shock that they were together again. When he had left, she thought it would be goodbye for good. She recalled crying for weeks over losing her best friend. "So...um...how have you been? I mean, aside from being hunted and stuff you know..." She giggled nervously.
Kaku laughed. "It hasn't been all bad. I kind of understand why pirates do it, y'know? The rush of a good adventure helps shake the dust off these old bones of mine!" He shook his arm in a gest.
They made their way to a small apple tree that sat on a hill. It was where the two of them would sneak off to whenever Melody was feeling down. Kaku would tell her stories to cheer her up, and if he could find a piece of wood- he'd carve her a small toy. They sat underneath it, watching as the sun began to slowly set.
Melody cleared her throat. "Kaku...Kalifa told me that you and Lucci will be going after Spandam...is that true?" She looked at him worriedly.
Kaku nodded his head. "Sure am. It's the only way to guarantee our freedom." He smiled sadly as he stretched his arms over his head. He knew the risk that came with it, but he wasn't the type to sit back when something could be done.
The brown haired girl played with the grass by her hand. "You know...if you stayed here you wouldn't have to worry about them finding you. I...I could keep you safe..." She bit her lip.
Kaku looked over at her, noticing the change in her speech. "I don't want you to get any more involved than you already are, Melody. We're all real thankful to you for helpin' us like this." He looked back at the sun.
Melody bit her lip harder. "I'd do it. I'd do it for you, Kaku." She clenched her fists. "I never thought I'd see you again, yet here you are. When you left...I regretted so badly that I..." She looked at him, tears welling up in her eyes. "I didn't get to tell you how I felt..." She pulled her necklace from underneath her neckline, revealing a carved wooden star. "Remember when you made this for me? I've been wearing it ever since. Whenever I'm scared or I'm sad...I just hold it and it makes me feel like you're right there with me..."
Kaku looked down at her, shocked by her confession. "Melody..." He watched as Melody looked at him before moving her face closer to his...
I really love you, Kaku.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate woke up groaning, holding her head as nausea overcame her. She looked around with one eye closed. "Oh wow...how'd I make it home?!" She noticed her blanket was closer to her than usual..."Why am I naked?!"
She gasped as Cutter entered the room wearing nothing but boxers.
"CUTTER?!"
Kate covered herself, having no recollection of what had happened.
Cutter sighed and placed a plate of fried potatoes, pancakes and sausages on her lap. "You need to eat. It's already past three in the afternoon."
Kate's face started to burn. "How...wait...did we...?"
Did I have sex with Cutter?!
Cutter sat beside her on the bed. He was less than a few inches away from her, and his closeness caught her off guard. "Do you want me to sugar coat it, or just tell you straight?"
Crap...what the heck happened last night?!
Kate pondered momentarily before deciding. "Straight." She pulled the blanket tighter.
He had contemplated lying and telling her nothing happened...but Kate had been lied to too many times, and she deserved to know the truth.
Cutter folded his arms. "You were extremely drunk and about to get gang banged by a pirate crew, but I happened to walk in. We went to a motel, and you kept asking me to fuck you because you drank some weird alcohol and I drank some too. We didn't do anything crazy. I finally found out where you lived and brought you here..." Cutter took a breath. "We did...uh...mouth stuff..." He thought for a second. "But we never kissed."
Kate sat there mortified. Feeling ashamed for what she did, and what could have happened. "Are...are you serious?!" She felt herself get sick.
Cutter stood up from the bed. "That being said..." He kneeled on the floor bowing towards Kate. "I'm sorry I was so weak, Kate. I promise, I really tried... I know we didn't go all the way, but we shouldn't have gone anywhere at all. Please forgive me.". He remained still.
He felt nervous, unsure of how Kate was going to react.
She's going to kill me...
Kate began to blush, shocked by how calm she was. "Cutter...come sit." She patted the bed beside her as he sat. "I'm the one who should apologize...and thank you. If anything; even if we went all the way...I'm glad it would have been with you." She smiled at him sweetly. The whole situation was bizarre, and despite all she was feeling- she mostly felt gratitude.
Cutter sighed. "Can you promise me something?" He looked at her worriedly.
Kate nodded her head, unsure of what she was going to agree to.
Cutter placed a hand on her shoulder. "Don't ever do or plan what you did last night ever again." He looked at her sternly. "No drinking...and also, if you ever get that desperate for sex...you know you can buy stuff, or...you can just call me..." He fought off his thoughts, not wanting to show Kate his excitement.
Kate slapped his arm. "Cutter!" She was flustered as she pictured what they had done together.
He stood up. "Kate! Really?! THOSE pirates?! They were disgusting." Cutter shivered. "At least have some respect for yourself." He shot her a glare.
Kate covered her face with the blanket. "I know, I'm such an idiot! I don't...wait- what are you doing on Water 7?!" She peeked out from under the blanket.
Cutter hit his head, realizing he had forgotten to tell her. "Well...I was worried about you, and wanted to check in...You stopped writing to us." He would never admit how much he looked forward to her letters though...
Kate held her blanket just above her breasts. "I'm sorry. I don't know if you knew this, or if I had already mentioned anything...but Kaku passed away." She bit her lip. "Him and 2 other members of Galley La...but no one seems to care. Iceburg wouldn't even let me have a funeral for Kaku, but wouldn't give me a proper reason...I just didn't want to think about Monogatari." Her eyes began to water, having held in talking about this for so long. "I'm sorry..." She breathed in deeply to stop herself from crying. "I was having a really hard time." She faked a laugh between stifled tears. "I was pregnant for a bit too, but...that didn't last long." She bit her lip as she pulled the blanket over her head, sobbing quietly.
Cutter wanted to embrace her, shocked by the second half of her story. But after last night's events- he wasn't sure if he'd be able to hold himself back. Knowing she was naked underneath her blanket made him replay the events in his head, wanting more.
There's a time and place for everything...
He flicked her ear through the blanket before standing up and walking out of the room. "Eat, clean yourself up, and get dressed. You promised to show me around Water 7 if I ever came, right?" He looked back at her. "Some fresh air will help with your hangover." He closed the door behind him. Kate wasn't the type who wanted pity, and Cutter wasn't the type to give it. This was the only appropriate approach he could think of.
Kate looked at Kaku's side of the bed, which had obviously been laid in. She went to grab his photo and noticed it had been flipped over.
At least he didn't see anything...
She couldn't help but chuckle when she looked at the plate. Cutter had arranged the food to make a smiley face.
Wow...he's actually kind of sweet.
Kate showed Cutter around the main parts of town. It had been a while since he was on such a large and busy island, that everything seemed new to him.
Kate wore a tight beige short sleeved dress with a v-neck cut, and white sandals. Cutter found the island much warmer than Monogatari, and felt odd wearing nothing but a tight grey t-shirt, jeans and boots.
He couldn't help but stare at Kate. On Monogatari she was dressed more conservative since she was working with the kids. She had gained a bit of weight since then, but it was distributed nicely between her bottom half and her chest. She looked like a full grown woman now. Last night's events didn't help him from staring. There was something else that seemed different about her, but Cutter failed to figure out what it was.
Kate walked excitedly towards Dock 1. It was busy with people watching the foremen work. There was a project set for completion on Monday, so the crew had to put in over time.
Paulie saw Kate from behind, having left the dock to run an errand.
Even on weekends she's dressed like a harlot!
He went to grab her shoulder but was met by Cutter's hand on his wrist.
Cutter glared at him as he tightened his grip. "Watch that hand of yours."
Paulie glared back, biting down on his cigar. "Who the hell are you?"
Kate turned around frantically separating Cutter's hand from Paulie. "Cutter! Hey Paulie, I'm sorry... This is my friend Cutter from Monogatari." She smiled nervously.
Cutter blushed from embarrassment. "Paulie. Kate has told me a lot about you. You're the lead foreman on Dock 1 and apparently a very good karaoke singer." He placed his hands on his sides before bowing this head. "Please forgive me for my actions."
Paulie laughed awkwardly. "Woah now, no need to be so formal... But good work looking out for our Kate. You're probably going to have to do that a lot since she's barely wearing anything."
Cutter chuckled as he stood back up. Kate had also written about Paulie's distaste for most women's clothing choices. "Duly noted."
Kate looked back at Paulie. "Is Iceburg around? Cutter wants to inquire about a ship."
Paulie lit his cigar. "Yeah, he should be in his office. I'll take you to him."
Iceburg sat at his desk, stroking Tyrannosaurus's head. He looked up as soon as the three entered. "Hm well, Kate. Happy belated birthday. I came to visit you last night but you weren't home..." He looked towards Cutter, holding back a smirk. "I suppose you had plans?"
Kate bowed quickly, laughing nervously. "Uh yes! Iceburg, this is my friend Cutter from Monogatari. He works for the King and would like to inquire about a ship? Sorry, I know you're busy."
Iceburg walked towards them, a smile on his face. "Not too busy for a friend of Kate's." He gestured towards a chair. "Please have a seat."
Cutter looked at Kate. "Sorry...it's a bit of a private matter so only those working on the ship can know. Is it okay if I meet you around the restaurant you talked about later?" He felt guilty sending her away, but it had to be done.
Kate turned towards the door, not wanting to admit she was relieved she wouldn't have to sit through a consultation. "No worries! I'll meet you there! Thanks Iceburg!" She waved at the three before leaving.
Paulie took a seat beside Cutter. "So, what kind of ship are we talking?"
Iceburg sat back at his desk pulling out some forms.
Cutter looked at him sternly. "I know about Kaku and CP9."
Iceburg dropped the papers and Paulie's cigar fell out of his mouth.
Cutter's face remained unchanged. "I can't tell you how I know this, but Kaku is alive...they all are. Although, there's a warrant out for them." He folded his arms. "I'm telling you this because Kaku may come back to Water 7 for Kate." Saying the words made his heart drop. "I haven't told her anything, but last night she acted out and put herself in a dangerous situation. You've been cruel to her by leaving her without answers. She's not over him, and I'd like to know where you both stand if he were to show up again." He tried to analyze them in order to figure out what they were thinking.
Paulie rubbed his head as Iceburg clasped his hands together on his desk. "Hm... Well... It's up to Kate. If she finds out the truth and forgives him; I'll have to accept him." The Mayor looked up at Cutter. "Her happiness is what matters."
Paulie nodded in agreement. "Although, I'd probably give him a punch or two first."
Cutter slowly stood up and headed towards the door. "I see. I still think we should hide the truth from Kate, since there's a good chance he'll be killed. Iceburg, you need to give her a better answer as to why there was no funeral. The lack of closure is turning her into a different person. I simply wanted to warn you both and make sure you wouldn't tell her anything- no matter how bad she acts out. But..." He turned back to look at them. "I'll be around to make sure she doesn't do it again. Thank you for you time." He closed the door behind him.
Cutter and Paulie looked at each other in disbelief. Kate had been right all along.
Iceburg wouldn't admit it; but he hoped Kaku would make it back somehow...
-.-.-.-.-
Cutter walked towards where the restaurant was and saw Kate staring into the window of a jewelry shop. She had her eyes on a thin gold chain bracelet with a single diamond in the middle.
"Kate?"
She turned around, smiling as soon as she saw Cutter. "Hey! You hungry?"
They sat at the diner Kaku and her used to frequent when she first started. The menu and chefs were amazing, however, Kate didn't quite like the service..
The brunette waitress huffed as she saw Kate seated with Cutter. She had hated her since she first came with Kaku, but was always nice to stay in his good books. Now that he was gone, there was no reason to be nice.
How does she get all the cute guys?!
She undid one more button of her blouse and sauntered her way over.
"Oh Kate! It's been a while. You look so tired, and like you've gained weight!" She leaned forward as she examined her. "A new boy already? Wow, I guess poor Kaku didn't mean that much to you."
Kate remained stoic, telling herself that it wasn't worth being affected by her words. She usually didn't work weekends, so Kate was surprised to see her.
The waitress smiled, noticing Kate's distress. She turned to Cutter batting her lashes at him. "Can I get you anything, handsome?" She giggled as she squeezed her breasts together.
Cutter's face was red. He smiled at her as he pulled his wallet out. "Hey there. Forgive me for being upfront but...how much would it cost for a 'good time'?"
The waitress laughed, as she normally welcomed the occasional "side business". She was usually more discreet, but the fact that he was asking in front of Kate made it even better. "Depends what you want?" She leaned in closer to him.
Cutter pulled 50,000 berries from his wallet, placing the bills in her hand.
She stood up excitedly, counting the bills. "Oh wow!" She smiled at Cutter as he sat up straight. It was more than she made in a month with both jobs.
The General smiled. "Well then, that should be enough." His facial expression suddenly turned into a glare. "For you to get out of my fucking face."
The diner went quiet as the waitress gasped.
Kate snapped out of her trance, having realized what was happening. She ran to stand between the waitress and Cutter, causing Cutter to stand up as well.
He looked like he would start foaming at the mouth as he stood up. "Don't ever talk to Kate like that again! You're nothing but a cheap concubine; a bicycle for any man that flashes some money at you! You have no right treat her like that!" He slammed a fist on the table, turning it into stone.
Kate grabbed his hand and ran out of the diner.
The waitress stood there in shock before breaking out in tears. Other restaurant goers scoffed at her, seeming to agree she deserved it as they overheard the conversation. Several people who had already finished their meals left as well.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate dragged Cutter several blocks away to a quiet park. She caught her breath. "What's wrong with you?!" She rubbed a hand down her head, still processing what had happened.
Cutter's face was still red from his blood boiling. Had the waitress been a man- he probably would have killed her. "Kate, you can't let people treat you like that!"
She took a step towards him as she clenched her fists. "YOU can't treat people like that! She's probably really hurt by what you said!" The waitress was never a friend, but Kate couldn't help but feel bad for her.
Cutter growled. "KATE! You need to have more respect for yourself to not let some hussy talk to you like that, let alone WHILE serving you! It's like how you need to value yourself enough to not lose yourself in a bar full of vagrants!" He kicked at a rock on the ground, his frustration growing. "I know you're going through a lot, but watching you like this makes me sick. I know you're better than this!" He huffed and began to walk away. "I need some space."
Kate stood there shocked. He was right after all...
She walked towards the Speckled Roof bar, thinking about whether or not she should find some pirates to ask about Kaku today. She shook her head.
I just want to go home...
Kate watched as a clean up crew removed several hundred pieces of broken stone from in front of the bar. She saw a piece that looked like a face, but it was thrown into a barrel before she could look closer.
She sighed; having too much on her mind to entertain her curiosity. Slowly, she walked back home.
Kate walked into her house, taken aback as she looked around.
Due to being in a rush earlier that morning; she didn't get a chance to look at her surroundings.
All the dishes had been cleaned and the loose laundry was folded. Even the kitchen floor looked as if it had been mopped.
"Cutter..."
She sat on the couch and leaned her head back. He was right. She was changing, and it wasn't for the better. If she truly believed Kaku was alive; why was she acting like this? What would Kaku say if he saw her or her place in this state?
She thought for a moment, laughing to herself.
"Gee Kate! It looks like a darn pig sty!"
He'd probably then add "piggy" to his list of pet names for her.
She imagined him walking through the front door.
I miss you...
She shot up as a gentle knock came from the door.
Kate took a breath before opening it.
Cutter stood with bags of food in his hands. "Can I come in?"
Her lip quivered as she looked at him. Cutter had done nothing but try to help her, and she was nothing but ungrateful.
She hugged him around his waist as she cried into his chest. "I'm sorry. You're right. I promise I'll be better." She hugged him tighter.
Cutter tried to steady his pulse. Feeling her against him brought back the thoughts he'd been trying to repress. "Let's eat, cry baby." He smiled as Kate looked up at him, nodding her head before heading back inside.
Kate began to wash the dishes as soon as they finished eating.
Cutter smiled at her teasingly as he watched her. "Wow, I thought you would have forgotten how to wash dishes by now!" He laughed. "Can you imagine if I told the kids?"
Kate snapped to look at him. "Oh my gosh, don't you dare!" She blushed, having realized it had probably been months since she had last cleaned properly...
Cutter continued to chuckle as he walked beside her, grabbing a drying cloth from off the oven. "Don't even say it. I don't mind helping."
Kate smiled and continued to wash as they did the dishes together in silence.
After finishing, Kate sat on the couch leaning back into it with her eyes closed. She opened one eye as she heard Cutter rummaging through the fridge. "Are you still hungry?" She closed her eyes again.
He didn't reply, carefully pulling out a small box.
She sat up as Cutter took a seat beside her, holding a plate with a piece of cake in one hand with a candle that said "happy birthday".
Cutter blushed as he looked away awkwardly. "Well, make a wish already."
Kate held back her tears, touched by the gesture. She closed her eyes and made a wish, thoughts of a long nosed gentleman filling her mind.
Cutter placed the plate on her lap and handed her a fork.
She looked at the cake. It was a sponge cake with fruits and whipped cream. "Do you not want any?!"
He shook his head. "I don't like sweets. All you."
She took a bite, her eyes lighting up. "Oh my gosh, it's so good! You have to try some!"
Cutter shook his head. "No thanks."
Kate kneeled on the couch and faced Cutter, holding a forkful of cake in front of him. "Please? It's my birthday..." She pouted.
Visions of Kate kneeling on her bed began to flood his mind.
Dammit...
He ate the cake to distract himself. The flavour was foreign as he hadn't eaten sweets since he was a child. "Thanks."
Wow, can't believe I enjoyed that...
Kate laughed before continuing to eat the cake. "Thank YOU! You know, for someone who doesn't like dessert- you're pretty sweet!"
Cutter blushed, hiding a small box behind him. "You're just so helpless. That's all." He had never been called sweet in his life, and didn't know how to react.
Kate continued to laugh as she got up to wash her plate.
Cutter grabbed her arm, asking her to sit back down. He took her plate from her and threw the small box onto her lap. "I'll wash it. You open this."
Kate looked down at her lap. It was a small white box with a gold ribbon. She opened it carefully, gasping when she lifted the lid.
What the...
It was the gold bracelet she had been looking at earlier.
She ran a finger across the diamond. "Cutter..."
He dried his hands off before sitting back beside her. "Sorry, I didn't know what else to get you. I saw you looking at it earlier." He was feeling awkward again...
Kate carefully took the bracelet out of the box. "This is too much...I can't-"
Cutter took the bracelet from her hand. "It's not free." He unclasped it before wrapping it around Kate's wrist. "Whenever you wear this; you're not allowed to drink, or do anything idiotic. Got it?" He closed the clasp.
She looked at it in awe, slowly nodding her head. She hugged him tightly. "Thank you so much."
He patted her back, standing up after a few seconds.
Can't get too close to her...
He grabbed his backpack from off the floor. "I should head out. There's an Inn the jewelry clerk said was pretty good."
Kate got up from the couch. "Inn? Why don't you just stay here?"
She was surprised by how comfortable she was asking him that. Then again; they had spent the night together already...
Cutter choked a bit, knowing it was probably a bad idea. "Thanks, but I'll be heading out tomorrow night anyways...I'll just come over in the morning?" He wore his backpack, adjusting the straps.
Kate marched over, removing the straps from his shoulders. "Don't be so weird! I'll sleep on the couch, it's fine. Besides, I'm not drunk!" She shook her bracelet before taking his backpack, but dropped it immediately. "Why the hell is it so heavy?!"
Cutter laughed, picking up the bag with ease. "Fine. But I'll sleep on the couch."
Cutter took a shower while Kate changed into a over sized black t-shirt and hot shorts underneath. She placed some bedding on the couch, trying to make it as comfy as possible.
Cutter came out of the shower only wearing a pair of dark grey joggers. He took a seat beside Kate as he dried his hair. "How sleepy are you?"
Kate looked at him, failing to hide her blush as she stared at how sculpted he was. She shook her head. "I'm not that sleepy. What's up?" She lied. It wasn't until after dinner that her hangover had completely gone away, and giving Cutter the Water 7 tour and other events wore her out as well.
Cutter rummaged through his backpack, pulling out 3 envelopes. "The kids wanted me to give these to you."
Kate's eyes watered, tracing her fingers over her name written 3 different ways.
She took a seat on the couch, patting beside her for Cutter to sit. "Wanna read them with me?"
Cutter draped the towel over his shoulders before taking a seat, an arm behind Kate.
They laughed as they read the letters. Tyson had listed songs he learned on guitar, Heart wrote Kate a poem about butterflies and Timmy talked about losing 2 baby teeth.
Kate went to ask Cutter a question but went silent as she looked up at him. He was fast asleep.
She yawned as she carefully placed the letters beside her. Kate went to get up but noticed his arm had slid down so his hand was now on her shoulder.
I don't want to wake him up...
He must have been exhausted for him to pass out so quickly.
Kate felt her eyes begin to droop as she leaned against his chest. He was so warm, and the sound of his breathing, the up and down with every breath soothed her.
I should go to my room...
She sighed before carefully sliding down the couch; careful not to move his hand so he wouldn't wake.
Kate placed the blanket over him, quietly walking to her room as she turned off the lights.
"Goodnight, Cutter."
Kate crawled into bed, sitting up when she realized she hadn't gone to the bars to ask any questions that night. She shook her head, a smile on her face as she snuggled into her pillow.
Just a few nights off should be okay...
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
A group of heavily bandaged pirates drank inside a small bar on Water 7.
A man with a red construction cap and a striped shirt sobbed. "Then they stole our ship...then...their leader stomped on our captain's head like it was an ant! AN ANT!"
5 other pirates in the group all sobbed as they raised their glasses.
"A toast to our fallen captain, and to the everlasting CANDY PIRATES!"