I couldn't get away in time. There are so many men here and not a woman in sight. The mayor, his secretary, and I are visiting the workers of Dock One. Even though I know most of them from the bakery, they reek! Holy Jesus! I put on a straight face, as the smelliest man passes me to get more food. Hold it together Angelina! You can do this.
"I think it's time…for me to leave," I said, standing up. Suddenly, Tilestone and Lulu stand next to me, smiling.
"Let us escort back to the bakery, Miss Angelina," they said, rubbing their hands together. I could see that they wanted more cake instead. I open my mouth to tell them that it was not necessary, but Mr. Iceberg starts to speak.
"Did you already finish the pirate's ship already?" he said, asking. I flinch slightly at the word pirate. Was my crew that was here? Nah it couldn't be. Luffy would all over this town, looking for a place to eat all the meat this town had to offer. Nami and Robin would be the shopping district, while Sanji carries their bags everywhere. Usopp and Chopper would be getting supplies for the ship and Zoro, well, he would be lost somewhere.
Tilestone and Lulu freeze and shakes their heads no. Iceberg stands up and lays a hand on each of their shoulders.
"I guess you should get started then," he said, with a frightening smile. They quickly nod and look at me.
"Could you come back tomorrow, along with more sweets?" they ask me, leading with their eyes. I smile and shake my head.
"Sorry, tomorrow is my only day off before Aqua Lagoon comes. I want to prepare to leave," I mumble the last part, looking away embarrassed. I turn to see them sad.
"But maybe sometimes tomorrow, you guys can visit me then," I said, hoping that can cheer them up. I swear they did a 180 mood swing dejected to cheery as hell once I said that. I could visibly see flowers and sparkle around them. I nervously smile back.
"Let's get you back to the bakery," Iceberg said, before leading me back to the streets of Water 7. We pass many people working, and couldn't believe how much work they put out. Some of them I could take my eyes off of them, especially this one guy. I think his name was Lucy or something. Wow! That is a nice example of a hot man. The abs! AH! Iceberg opens the gate for me.
"Thank you, Iceberg. You don't have to escort me back to the bakery," I said, feeling uneasy. I have no idea, but having this man near me, I feel so creep out. It's not like he didn't do anything wrong but it's just a vibe I'm getting from him.
"It's the least I can do, after all I need more of that cake," Iceberg said, walking ahead. I take my time walking behind him. I look around to see that Robin must have gone back without me. I sigh. It's going to take forever to get to the bakery without her. I see Iceberg looks back, and I freeze.
"Do you have your-"I cut him off with a swift "No". I feel so lost. I hope I can lead the way.
"She must have left for dinner, and I'm still not familiar around this town yet," I said, blushing. I hear him chuckle a bit.
"Then let's get a water taxi then," he said, patting my head like a kid. A shiver went through my body and I just nervously grin and nod. I am so getting a hot shower and rub my skin raw tonight. These clothes I have on are going to burn. I can't believe this person is the mayor of this town.
"Sure, no problem. While we do that, I want to take this opportunity to talk about Star bakery," I said, walking beside him. 'Someone please shoot me,' I thought to myself. I can't explain this feeling, but it is a similar feeling when I met with Crocodile. He is hiding something. I just don't know what. But I will be damn not to use this great opportunity to bring money to the bakery.
"I can see that the guys really like the cake I brought today, and maybe the bakery can do some business here during lunchtime, selling sandwiches, pastries, drinks, and that sort of thing," I said, keeping up with him. We were making our way to the main waterway, where they should be a lot of water taxis there.
"We are just a small bakery, but my boss Frank just makes tons of cake and bread every day…." I said, pausing for a bit. I look at Iceberg, who was emotionless. It seems that he didn't want to be bothered about my pitch. Or, is that his resting bitch face? I didn't know why but I stop talking. Was it because I don't want to bore him or that I don't want to fight a lost cause? I don't know, but once we hit the main waterway I decided to part ways with him.
"Thank, Mr. Mayor-"I'm cut off by the mayor.
"Please call me Iceberg," I roll my eyes and clear my throat.
"Thank you, but I can get back to the bakery myself," I said, hailing a small boat taxi. I didn't nor do I want to face him. I see one coming my way. It stopped right in front of us.
"OH….are you sure? I can-" This time I cut him off. I hopped in the boat and sit down in the back. I give him a smile. Thank god, he forget he wants more of the cake.
"Yea. I'm good on my own and Thanks again," I said. I turn to the driver this time.
"To 56 Red Mill Waterway please," I said, leaving the Mayor of this fine city behind or so I hope. The Aqua Laguna will be here shortly and I need to pack up and get ready. Tomorrow will be day one of the major shopping spree. Maybe I can find the whereabouts on my crew or else I have to go back to that forsaken Isle.
The way back took even longer because of the traffic, but I made it back. I see it was closed from the front and I made my way to the back. I see Robin in her little pen. When she saw me, she made her way to greet me. I couldn't help but giggle.
"I see you made it for dinner, huh, you little deserter," I said, rubbing her head. She neighs gleefully. I open the back door with my key and see that Frank is cleaning up the kitchen. He looks up and frowns.
"And what took you so long?" he asks me. I sigh sadly.
"Sorry, Frank. I was stuck at Dock One for the longest. I thought maybe I could chat up the mayor to come and visit our store, but couldn't" I said, telling him the truth. Frank takes one good look at me and burst out laughing.
"You thought you could….hahahaah…with Mayor Iceberg," Frank said, laughing. I stood there in shock. I shoot for the moon here for him and he stands there laughing at me. I look away, embarrasses right now. I might even pout a bit.
"You are such a sweet soul, eh Angelina," Frank said, shaking his head. Franks puts his rag into the sink and grins.
"Thank you for all the work you did for me and as promised I'll be taking you to the next island in three days," Frank said, wiping his forehead. The thought of leaving this island saddens me. It reminds me so much of Italy, a country I really wanted to visit one day. Yet, I need to keep moving to meet up Luffy and the gang. Maybe I meet up with Dracule instead. I cross my fingers for both, more on meeting up with my boyfriend. God, I sound like a thirsty thot.
I feel Frank patting on my head, breaking my trance. I frown a bit, before fixing my hair.
"Would ya stop doing that? You always mess my hair like that," I said, moving away from him and making my way to my temporary room.
"Nah, I going to mess your hair every chance I have," he said, I turn around and smile.
"Well, thank god I have these days off to go shopping and not be here for your entertainment," I said, sticking my tongue. I left Frank in the kitchen and made my way to my room. I open the door and sigh. I need to see what I need for my travels ahead. I walk to my desk and open the first drawer. I see my blue pouch and see my little savings. It's not a lot but it will have to do for now. Hell even Nami wouldn't steal this money.
I walk over to my small dresser and start to pack my stuff to know what I need to but for tomorrow. I think tomorrow would be getting the things I need. The next day would be exploring this town for the last time, and then the final day would help Frank in any way and be on my way. I put all my clothes, laying them on my bed. I frown again, missing my wardrobe at the ship. My little outfits are so pitiful and useless in a fight. There are too many skirts and fancy blouses that I need at least two good outfits to fight.
I slap my forehead, remembering that I don't have any gear to fight with. I don't have my seastone gloves with me anymore. I can't even afford them right now. I sigh, hoping I can afford a pair of gloves, and maybe a hidden knife. I can never be too careful around these parts.
"It is not easy for a girl to travel in the Grandline," I mumble to myself. Maybe if I can remember Dracule's number, I would call him and he can whisk me away, but I forgot it.
"Alright, I just need to buy gloves, a small knife, and pants for tomorrow. Then, after lunch I can do a pedicure at Sansa's Spa," I said, looking at my money stash. I need to save the rest just in case I can't find a job on the next island. I quickly put my stuff in the bag, leaving out tomorrow's outfit. Then I lift the blanket and get myself into bed. I lie on my side, and close my eyes. 'Soon, guys. I'll find you guys again and promise never to leave again,' I thought to myself. I wonder where they are.
The next day came and went in a blink of an eye. It was a peaceful day. The weapon shop had a huge clearance sale today and tomorrow, but I was there early in the morning. I bought myself two pairs of gloves, two knives, and straps to go with it. Now, I am armed and dangerous. No one will mess with me. Also, I managed to haggle with the shopkeeper and got myself three pairs of shorts for the price of two. I decide to leave my things in my room, before hitting the spa today.
As I enter the kitchen, it was all mayhem. I had bakers running around pounding on the dough, getting ingredients, and decorating cakes. I really wanted to help them, but I have an appointment at the spa that I can't miss.
"I wonder where Frank is," I mumble to myself. He never leaves the kitchen unless it's something really important. I didn't stay and ask. I went upstairs and lay my three bags on my bed. I quickly change my sneakers to my flip flops.
"Let's hope they aren't many people there," I walk downstairs and out the door. I can walk to the spa, thank god. As I'm walking down the street, something doesn't feel right. My captains-are-doing-something-dumb senses are tingling, as if he was on this island. I shake my head to get rid of those thoughts.
"As if Luffy was here, he would have made a big scene about this place. There is always an explosion indicating that Luffy is here," I said to myself. I round the corner to see Tilestone and Lulu with someone. Once they saw me, they start to wave me down.
"Hey! Angelina!" Tilestone yells at me. I nervously smile and walk to them. The spa is right three more blocks behind them. I better make this quick.
"Hey you guys. What's up?" I said, politely, smiling. I quickly take a good look at this person. He looks so familiar and what's up with the bird.
"We were getting lunch for the guys at the Docks, and Lucci decided to come with us," Lulu said, pointing him out. I smile and held out my hand. He grips it. I didn't understand nor could I describe this feeling I'm getting from this guy. All I know I feel like prey.
"It's nice to meet you Lucci," I said, giving him a firm handshake. I swear to god that man smirks at me for a split second. The bird coos at me.
"It's nice to meet you, Miss Angelina. Koo! My name is Hattori and this is Lucci," the bird "said". I keep a smiling face.
"Aww aren't you the cutest thing ever," I said, squealing at the end. I know something is up with this person. Using a bird with ventriloquism, he looks innocent for a split second. I need to get out of there or else I won't be able to hide my discomfort.
"As much as I love to stay and chat, I'm in a hurry. I'll see you guys later," I said, waving them goodbye.
"Awwww okay. Bye Angelina!" Tilestone yell. I turn around and left them. 'Don't look back. Don't look back. Don't look back' I thought to myself. As I reach the spa, I am cover in a cold sweat. I walk into the spa.
"Welcome to Sansa's Spa. How can I help you?" said a girl behind the desk. The kind of help I need no one but myself can help.
"Yes. I have an appointment for a mani and pedi at twelve," I said. The girl smiles and told me to follow her. She led me to the back of the salon and I sat on the chair with a small tub inf front of it. I sit down and lay my purse on my front lap, taking my flip flops off. Another woman came to me and starts to fill the tub with hot water.
"My name is Fifi. If you need anything please don't hesitate to ask," she said, as she pours soap on to my feet.
"Thank you," I replied back. I start to relax and close my eyes as she starts to massage my feet and doing her thing. I'm thinking of going back to my room after this and read some books.
Something to get my mind off of Lucci, I can only hope that I don't find myself in a dark alleyway with him. I fear what he might do to me. I don't know why, but I think his eyes gave it away. There is no way a predator can hide their true intention, especially if you look into their eyes. When I look into Lucci's eyes for a split second I thought I saw Dracule, but the second we touch the skin, his face turns onto something out of a Freddy Kruger movie. I thought I died in that split second.
Fifi starts to clip my toenails, cleaning them. I need to start thinking about where to find my crew. Maybe I should see what the news is like. Luffy always does something to draw attention from the media. Sometimes, I think I should track down Dracule first to ask him to track them and have some downtime with him. I'll even ask him to take his time too. I sigh heavily. I really need to spend some time with him. Just thinking about him, I think of very dirty thoughts.
"Ma'am, which color would you like?" Fifi said, drying off my feet. She starts to apply the lotion to my legs and feet.
"I want that dark red," I replied, pointing out the maroon color.
"Good choice," she said. I lay back to the chair and sigh again.
"Girl, if you sigh one more time, I'm going to choke you," someone said, beside me. I look to see a woman glaring at me.
"Was I sighing that much?" I said, nervously. They roll their eyes at me and 'tch' at me.
"Every damn forty seconds you sigh, you want to talk about it. You know woman to woman" she said, trying to be helpful. I think about it.
"It's too many issues I have to deal with and conflicting interests on my part. You do not want to hear the mess of my life," I said, exaggerating some bits.
"Damn, Girl! Shoot no wonder you are here. Must be some big drama in your life," she said, picking up a magazine by her table. I simply nod.
"All I want is to see my boyfriend, but he...is away on business," I said, being very vague. I didn't want to say anything unnecessary, but how long has it been since the last time I spoke with a woman, let alone with someone in a deeper level of conversation?!
"How long?" she asks, picking out a nice forest green color.
"I don't know. I think a month or two. I lost track," I think about it. She laughs and shakes her head. Her blond curls bounces, each time.
"No, I mean, how long," she said, using her hands. It takes me a second about what she means. It clicks. My face flushes in red. I huff.
"Oh my god," I mumble. I really want to sink into this chair. She crackles like a hyena.
"I'm sorry. Since its been a while, I thought you in a rut of sorts," she said. Damn woman, you don't need to go for the jugular. I do want to bang him. Yea….
"Now, I think about it. You're right. I got it bad," I said, admitting to it. I see her drink some of her water, making a face. I couldn't stop myself.
"What's with that face?" I ask her. She smiles at me.
"You mean this face," she said pointing to her own, "This face knows that your boy toy comes back, just do him. Give him a reason to stay,"
I lift my finger in the air. Hold on! Gurl! My mind is racing connecting Dracule with very naughty thoughts right now. Gosh, I can just imagine what I want to do with Dracule. Ah! Focus, Angelina.
"Yes, well you know how work is. Hard and full of drama," I said and it sets her off.
"Ugh! Tell me about it. Especially, in the city hall. The drama that I need to tell…" she starts to ramble on and on. I cringe and nod politely. Wow, lady just dish it on me, will ya. This woman can really talk and talk. I understand having a small conversation with a stranger, but that was too much information on her part.
We casually talk about work and how hard it was, but talking about the office's gossip is UGH! Especially when her workplace is the Water 7 mayor office, it's a bit personal. I did not need to know that Pedro is cheating on his wife with Clara and Mike on separate occasions.
Nor do I need to know the numerous World Government agents that come to the office to speak with the mayor no matter how hot they are. It's weird that the World Government comes to this city more than it does to any country. I have a terrible feeling about this.
I say my goodbyes, and walk out the doors. As I walk down the road, I have a strong feeling that someone watching me. I'm on high alert since there are only a few people around. I look at the sky to see that the sun is about to set. I round the corner to see if someone is behind me. There is no one, but I slam against someone. I stagger back.
"I'm sorry" I apologize to the person, slowly looking up. My blood froze when I see it is Lucci. He looks down at me, his eyes piercing yellow. Bells and whistles start to ring in my head, wanting me to run away. I slow down my breathing. I can't let him see that side of me.
"Koo~ No worries. Are you alright, Miss Angelina?" Hattori said, speaking for him. I lick my lips a bit, hoping that he doesn't sense my fear.
"Yea, I'm fine. Once again, I'm sorry," I said, straightening out. I clear my throat. The way he stares at me makes me feel like a piece of meat.
"Now if you can excuse me, I need to go home," I said, hoping to get out of there. The next thing I hear almost made me pass out.
"Let us escort you. I hear there are pirates around," Hattori coos at me. I smile and nod, yet inside my head I'm cursing at my luck. Now I'm walking with death himself. I walk at a slow pace, taking my time to walk back home. I didn't want to look like I'm trying to get away from him.
"So, Miss Angelina, what brings you here?" Hattori said, questioning me. I think he wants to fill the silence a bit. I play along not knowing what he is capable of.
"Just work. I came from Braken Isle to Water 7 for work. I really want to travel around the Grandline," I answer. I really need to make sure I don't slip about anything about me. Everything I say must be vague. I don't know how people would react if I were to say I'm a pirate. They might call the Marines on me. I am not strong to handle Marines right now.
"Koo~ Really? Don't you miss your family?" Hattori said from Lucci's shoulder. I open my mouth to respond, but I notice something.
One, he was getting far too close to me, his hands just barely touches my own. Two, I'm on his left which means I'm the closest one near the water. Finally, he is hiding his presence. With every step he takes, I feel a shift of air around him. I feel I'm being hunted down like prey. I could just feel it. He is a dangerous man, hiding his fangs with the cuteness of his pet. Yet, I can see right through that. Dracule had this type of aura before I told him about it.
"I do, but I know this is worth it. I don't want to anything else, but to travel the Grandline. I know it's dangerous with Seakings, and pirates, yet….," I stop there. 'I want to go back to my crew' I thought to myself. Unconsciously, I rub my eye for a bit. I sigh a bit dropping my hand back to my side. I still have nightmares about Crocodile and his damn hook. If I ever see him again, I'll like to punch his face in or something like that. Oh who am I kidding? I'm so damn weak.
"Someone hurt you? Koo~" Hattori said, perching himself on my right shoulder. I'm surprise that he even left his master side like that. I smile softly.
"It's fine. So, what made you stay here, Lucci," I ask him, seeing him behind me. I gave me a small smile, trying to see what kind of person he is.
"Iceberg," Hattori said, drawing my attention. I look in front of me thinking about that.
"He must have you really inspire for you to follow him and stay here then," I said, wondering something.
"You are so smart," Hattori said. I giggle I feel at ease with Hattori. I rub his tiny head and he coos cutely.
"You, sir, are so cute. You even have a little tie," I said, taking a good look at Hattori. What I didn't see that his master is observing my every move. Lucci is always quiet, listening, and observing his environment. He is definitely like Mihawk, except for the fact I'm in love with Dracule.
Lucci is strong and if I didn't have Dracule as my man and Lucci didn't scare me to death, I would be over that ass. Finally, we reach the bakery's back entrance. I open my purse to fish out the key. I pull it out and open the door. I bit my lip, wondering if I should invite him in.
"Thank you for escorting me back home. Um…would you like to come in? Maybe for some tea" I ask him. This time Hattori flies back to his master's shoulder and speaks for him.
"Of course. Some tea would be great," Hattori said. I turn around and start mentally curse myself. Why did I ask him to come in?! Tea, really! I open the door, went in, and close it shut. I thank god that today the shop closed early and no one is in the kitchen. I close the door after he comes in. I think he distracting me with Hattori's cuteness for information, but why. I shake off this feeling.
"My room is upstairs, please take a seat and I'll come up with some tea," I said, showing him the stairs that led to my room. Lucci and Hattori goes up while I look around for teacups. I open up the cupboard and see some collections of teas. Black, Green, Oolong, Peppermint. My eyes go one by one before settling on the one I want. I grab a box of ginger gree tea. I need a bit of a kick for today. Once I have the tea, I heat up the water to go with it. I set the tray together. Some cookies, teacups, teapot with the tea, and sugar. Carefully, I walk up the stairs. The clashing of the glass can be heard softly. My door is already open and I see Lucci looking at my small bookcase, while Hattori is sitting on an open window.
"I see that my collections intrigues you, Lucci. Are you a poet too?" I ask, setting the tray down on the small table I have in the corner. I set my room where my bed is against the wall, giving me ample room to move around. Then a feet away is the window which is next to the table with two small chairs. On the other side of the room is my attached bathroom and bookcase I have.
"I do like reading here and there," Hattori said, pecking his feathers a bit. I think he is grooming himself. Lucci walks towards me, sitting down in front of a teacup. I sit across of me, quietly sipping my tea. Now, I have a boost of energy.
"Is there a favorite poet or poem you like?" he asks after a while. As always, he uses Hattori to speak for him. I ponder a bit.
"Not really. I like different poets from different genres, to be honest. I know its a bit nerdy, but I like poems, because we can express many different human emotions through them," I said, talking about it. "Anger. Hurt. Depression. Sadness. Romance. Love. Lust. All of the raw emotions."
It is nice to talk to someone about just about anything. I didn't mind the questions Lucci is asking me. The more I talk with him, the less afraid I am. We talk about many things. His work. My work at the bakery. How he got here. How I got here. He didn't have a family. Yet,...
"My family is complicated. I don't know what to think about them, to be honest. Sometimes, I feel like I don't know them at all," I state the truth. Lucci looks at me in some weird way. Lucci stands up.
"It's getting late. I shouldn't intrude any longer," he said. I follow suit, saying that I didn't mind at all that I like the company. When we get to the back door, I open it for him. He steps out with Hattori on his shoulder. He turns around and takes off his hat, bowing a bit.
"Thank you for-" he stops. Without thinking, my hands are on his face gently pulling him into the light. I stare closely in his eyes. I squint, trying to place those eyes back to my memories.
"Have we met before?" I whisper. I breathe softly. Without his hat, I have a weird feeling, like I know him from somewhere. Lucci overlaps his hands over mine. I can feel his warmth as he drags my hands away from his face. With one hand he places his hat back and the other holds my own hands.
"Goodnight, Angelina," he says, before walking away. Everything registers at once. I shake my head. There is no reason why I did that, but I have a nagging feeling like I know him from somewhere.
"Can this day get weirder?" I mumble to myself. I turn around and close the door. As I look up, I jump back. Frank is standing there, with a huge grin on his face. He just burst out laughing.
"Kyuhuhuhuhu, I was about to go and tell you the good news, about the partnership we landed with Dock One, but I can see that you had sights on Lucci," he said, leaning against the doorway. I shake my head. He is not getting me today.
"I'm so glad about your new partnership" I said. Frank grins like crazy. He quickly forgets what he saw or I bet he is going to use it for later.
"Yes. Thank you so much. I wish I didn't have to leave you on Mountain Bluesteel. Are you sure you don't want to stay here?" Frank says, begging me. I shake my head.
"Sorry, I need to find them," I said, patting his shoulder. He frowns but understands me.
"They must be very important people to you then. Well….goodnight then," he said returning to his office. I bid him a goodnight. I return to my room and prepare for tomorrow. I quickly change into my pj's and layout the next day outfit. I think I might sleep in until the afternoon. I lay down on my bed and turn to my side except this time; I look out the window from the bed. I'll leave it open for some fresh air. It is getting a bit humid as of late.
I wake up by the sound of lots of whistles and yelling outside. I moan and try to see what time is it. I blink a few times to see it is 11: 32 am. I stagger up from my bed and close the windows and blinds. I stagger back and crawl back to sleep.
"Just a few more minutes," I mumble to myself. I go back to sleep, dreaming of tea parties and my crew. Sanji making all the chocolate chip cookies for me and Luffy trying to steal them from me are the best part, yet it makes me want to go out and look for them.
I slowly open my eyes and frown. It was all a dream. I stretch out a bit, slowly making my body wake up. I get up just in time for Frank to knock on the door, rapidly.
"Angelina! IT IS ONE O` CLOCK WOMAN!" He yells through the door. I sit up in shock and look at the clock. He is right. I must have been super tired. I stand up and open the door.
"Get packing. We are leaving the island in two hours," Frank said, informing me. I nod as I hear people outside from my window. It seems that it is coming at night. Aqua Lagoon or something like that... I quickly gather my towel and my underwear to take a quick shower. I walk into my small bathroom and hop into the shower.
I shiver as the cold water spray against my skin. I turn the nob for warmer water. I sigh happily and I get my lavender soap and lather my body with it. I couldn't help but make a mental note to stick with this scent. For some reason, it leaves my body so silky smooth and it helps with the scars I have to get smoother. As I lather my shoulders, I touch a small scar. It went horizontal for three inches on my left shoulder. I lather myself on the chest where is a scar from the middle of my chest down to my belly button. This scar reminds me of the surgery that left me with scattered memories of my early childhood.
I sigh and shut off the water. I really don't want to think about them right now. What I need to do is get ready to leave Water 7 and search for my crew. I wrap my body with the towel and step into my room. I drop my towel to the floor and start to put on my clothes. Today, I decided to wear my black short that goes to my knee, with black combat boots that go mid-calf, and put a hidden knife in my left boot. No one can be too careful with pirates especially if I'm in the Grandline. I adjust my bra before putting on my sangria color, button-down blouse.
Suddenly, I feel like someone is watching me. I quickly look out my window, walking towards. I peek out, searching for anything; I see nothing around.
"ANGELINA!" Frank yells from downstairs. I look behind me. I hurriedly close the windows, grabbing my bag.
As I reach the bottom stairs and into the kitchen, I wonder what adventure awaits me. Then Frank sees me and smiles. A smile I know too well. I start to shake my head as he comes closer. I frown deeply.
"Nope. Not going to do it…Please don't make me do it," I beg him at the end.
"I don't have anyone to do it. Please do this for me. It's for the Mayor Iceberg," Frank said, saying that man's name. Rolling my eyes, I hold out my hands to receive the cake. Frank grins and gives it to me. I'm glad that I have a backpack that holds my personal items I need. Everything else can be bought later.
"What's the occasion this time?" I ask as I walk towards, not wanting to see this person.
"Some damn pirate tried to assassinate him. They said it was a crew member of the StrawHats pirates," he said, grabbing his stuff from the counter. He didn't catch my shock face. A ton of emotion goes through me. Happiness, joy, yet I'm worried. I won't believe one of us would try to murder this guy. I mean the mayor is disgusting, but Luffy is way worse than him.
"Oh god," I said, my eyes brimming with tears. I really want to cry. I found them. Frank sees me about to cry and has the wrong idea.
"Don't worry, Angelina. Those pirates are being hunted down, by everyone in the city actually. I just need you to deliver this to his secretary. I'll meet you at the pier station," he said as we both leave the bakery. I lick my lips nervously. The gang is on this island, but something isn't right here. I couldn't put my finger on it.
"Frank, I think I'm going to stay here, I want to say….thanks to the Mayor for the bakery," I said, hoping to persuade the man. Frank thought about it, rubbing his chin. I need to investigate what happened to my friend. Seriously, can we go to an island and not cause any trouble. Everywhere we go, trouble seems to be following us like a shadow.
"I don't know…. Okay, You can stay here at the shop," he said worrying about me. I give him a simple smile.
"That's fine. Thank you for letting me work here," I said, bowing a bit. I am really grateful for this opportunity. It is different from the rest of the odd jobs I had. I didn't give the chance to change my mind; I rush out the door and down the street.
"Wait! Angelina…..THANK YOU!" Frank yells behind me. I smile, feeling relief. Oh god I'm becoming so emotional right now, but I need to focus on the task at hand. Hopefully, Iceberg is awake when I get there.
Making my way downtown, walking fast, trying to track this mayor's residence now. The walk to this man's house is not easy. Why so many stairs?! I push myself to continue to walk up to the top. I pause, panting heavily, my calves are burning up. Stopping for a minute, I ask myself why in the world did I do this? Oh yeah cause he saw Robin. I can smell the rainstorm coming.
"Come on! They can't hide forever!" a citizen exclaims, leading a horde of determined people. They had some sort of weapons on them, mostly pitchforks. Instinctively, I hold my breath.
When they passed me, I let out a sigh of relief. I completely forgot that no one knows that I'm one of the pirates they are looking for. I wager my crew thinks that I'm dead. I hold on the box of cake tighter, hoping I'm close by. I just need confirmation that Robin is here which would mean they are here. I start to go to the direction that the mob came from.
"Angelina~" I freeze and quickly look around, trying to see who is calling me. Then a familiar bird perches on my right shoulder. My blood chills and I curse my luck. Why did I cross path with him?! It could have been anyone else, but him! I turn behind me and see Lucci and Lulu coming over. At least it wasn't Lucci only, walking around.
"Hey you," I cheer, forcing myself to smile. Lucci is raising my internal bad guy alarm system. I see Lucci carrying his hammer and Lulu carrying his swords. He cooed in my ear at seeing his master.
"Where you off to? The Aqua Laguna is coming tonight~" Hattori states, for Lucci. Lucci stares at me with those eyes, staring me down like a hungry predator. His stares chills me to the bone. Suddenly, I could feel his aura change into a crouching tiger. I blink rapidly to get rid of the image from my mind.
"W-well Frank wants to send his regards to the mayor," I squeak, hoping to sound normal. I feel Hattori takes flight and went to perch himself with Lucci. I hear people running around the streets below us, looking for the pirates, and Robin.
"You are such a nice person. What kind of cake is it?" Lulu questions. From the way his body language is telling me, he wants to devour this cake. I tilt my head.
"Oh I think it's vanilla strawberry," I assume, "So, I guess you guys are hunting pirates?"
"Nah, we shipwrights are going to Iceberg's house to protect him," Lulu said, touching his pointy cowlick. It goes into his hair but it just points out in another direction. It makes me wonder how does that even work.
"I see...you think I can tag along," I propose, hoping for the best. If I can just talk to Iceberg, I may get a hint on where the crew is. I know that Robin wouldn't assassinate a mayor of a city. There must be a logical reasoning for this.
"I don't know about that…, "Lulu implies. I frown. Guess I need to figure out where am I going next? I bit my lip in thought. Should I try to find the crew?
"Koo~! I don't see why not," Hattori blurts out. I look at him in surprise. I only know them for a total of three weeks, yet Lucci feels like he can trust me to go to see Iceberg. Or maybe this is all a trick, another motive...but for what?
"...thank you," I said, yet he continues to stare at with that look. I don't know if he is happy, suspicious, or something else. I can't get a read off of him. His stance is neutral, there is no expression in his face and I can sense he is hiding something by his eyes. I quickly look away in uneasiness. 'Breathe, girl' I thought.
"Then let's go," Lulu approves, leading the way. I follow close behind, my grip tightens around the box as Lucci decides to walk right freaking beside me while Lulu walks four steps ahead of us. I try to calm my nerves. I see people pass us, either looking for the StrawHats or leaving this place.
"So, you're staying here or leaving soon,koo~."Hattori coos, flapping his wings. I'm tired of answering his questions. What does he really want?
"Do you ever talk for yourself, Lucci," I question him. I really don't want to spend a lot of time getting annoyed with him. When I say him I mean the bird talking.
"Of course I do" Hattori answers. I roll my eyes at him.
"No I mean your real voice. It makes me wonder what it sounds like," I wonder, trying to get a reaction. Lulu burst out laughing.
"Hahaha! The day Lucci actually speaks to us the days pigs fly," Lulu chimed in. I'm guessing that Lulu tried to have him talk but couldn't.
"But do you ever wonder though," I said, glancing to my right for a reaction. Damn! Nothing!
"Angelina we try our hardest to make him talk," Lulu adds, piquing my interest.
"And?" I said, hoping he continues.
"He is as silent as a newborn lamb," Lulu declares. I scoff at that sentence. Lucci is not a lamb, more like a wild tiger, or a hungry bear. Is he really that silence? Would he never talk? I turn to glance at Lucci again.
Our eyes met and under the low light, I can see his yellow eyes. My mind starts to race and it connects his yellow eyes to Dracule's golden eyes. God I miss him so much! I'm getting so lonely without him. My thoughts keep racing all over the place, trying to remember his warm touch, his intoxicating smell, and his wine taste. Unconsciously, I like my lips, remembering how he tastes. Oh how would like to taste him again, to feel his hands around my waist, and just being in the moment with him. I reel myself back to reality and blush. I quickly realize that I'm staring at Lucci while daydreaming about my man. I look away, hoping he doesn't get the wrong idea.
We round the corner, and I see the Iceberg's manor. How on earth does he afford this? HOLY DAMN! There in his front yard is the whole company of Galley-La from Dock One. Everyone is ready to fight in a street war with rifles, guns, swords, and tools of the trades. 'You Guys!' I thought to myself, mentally cursing everyone in my crew. They made this whole entire city their enemy. May the gods shine on me today. Some people decide to greet us at the gate.
"HEY ANGELINA! IS THAT CAKE!" Tilestone yells, coming out of the group. Other people follow him as of them I knew since they are regulars at the bakery. I try my best to recall their names. Damn it. I'm good with faces, but not with names.
"Hello, this cake is for Iceberg. Is he going to be okay?" I asks. Tilestone opens his mouth to tell me, but Iceberg's secretary speaks first.
"Everything is fine." she starts, adjusting her glasses. Somehow I doubt that. From what I'm getting, no one is going to see him anytime soon.
"Oh that's good. The Star Bakery would like to give this get well cake," I state, giving it to her. She looks at me then to the cake. She had to make it damn awkward about it. She grabs it, and give her thanks, walking away.
"Anyway, I'm heading out then," I announce my departure. Tilestone and Lulu frowns.
"Awww. Are you coming back to Water Seven after the storm," Tilestone said. I shake my head. How the hell am I going to respond to that? I couldn't say 'Yea with the pirates that you think is trying to kill your mayor'. I have no idea where my crew is and I might have to come back to this island because of this storm.
"Ummm. Maybe?" I said, not sure for myself. It depends on what the hell the crew is doing? Where the hell is Robin?
"It's nice meeting you guys. Be safe," I said, side hugging Lulu and Tilestone, but Tilestone gave me a full-blown bear hug. I think I hear my back cracking. Yep, he crack my bones!
"We are going to miss you and your cakes. I hope to see you soon!" Tilestone exclaims, with tears in his eyes. I awkwardly pat his shoulders. Finally, he lets me go, dropping me gently.
"Why don't I escort you, Angelina," Hattori said, for Lucci. I look at both of them and internally scream in horror. Oh hell no. I don't want to be alone with Mr. Twenty Questions here. What is his deal? Can't he get off my back? I thought I did my twenty questions yesterday.
"That's fine," I quickly said. I thought that would be the end of it, but he is so damn persistent.
"We still have those wanted pirates hiding somewhere in the city," Hattori chimes in. THE HELL! LEAVE ME THE HELL ALONE YOU DAMN!
"You're needed here. Plus, I highly doubt I would encounter a pirate. I would probably encounter a dangerous assassin in the big city instead," I joke, noticing that he react to the word assassin. It was a small twitch on his shoulder, but it was noticeable by me. I really need to get going.
"Bye you guys," I said quickly. I turn around and speed walk the hell out of there. I hear the yelling of goodbye, but the overwhelming feeling of someone's blood-lust….
Finally, I reach the stairs where Lucci and Lulu found me. I let myself breathe. What the hell happened back there? I feel as if someone wants to kill me right then and there. I rub my neck and realize that I broke out in a cold sweat. I wish I know how to contact my crew. I can't search the entire city, it's too big. I might get lost and with the storm coming this way….
"Ugh when I need Zoro or Luffy to give me a beacon. I get nothing. No explosions nor big fights!" I mumble angrily. Looking out at part of the city, where could they be? I close my eyes and think. I need to think about the facts. The crew arrive at Water Seven yesterday. Since they are pirates, they couldn't dock with the merchants. Somehow late at night Robin tried to kill Iceberg, but failed to do so. Why?
Why?! Back when I was capture by Crocodile, she could have killed me ten times over with her devil fruit. Also what does she gain for killing him? C'mon Angelina thinks like Robin, think like a criminal. Then it hits me. Only knowing Robin for a short while, I can only assume something or someone is at play. Plus, why would I waste time trying to find where they are or when they enter Water Seven.
"Alright think Angelina. If you were Robin where would you escape?" I said, looking around. Two locations seem to pop up for me. I can see the city's major port with a few boats hanging around and then the train station.
"Let's see what the train station schedule is?" I said out loud. I quickly run down the stair, heading towards the train station. Hopefully, by chance, I meet up with one of my crew.
If I remember correctly the train station is between dock two and dock three. From where I'm at, I'll be there in an hour by walking. There are many buildings cover up with boards, ready for this so-called big storm. The people of Water Seven that decided to stay here are looking for my crew or going for higher grounds. I see fewer people as I get near the train station. Suddenly, as I passed an alleyway, someone grab me by my backpack. Instantly, I'm ticked off.
"Let go!" I yell, turning around to face them. I didn't hesitate to punch them in the stomach. They bend over and cover their stomach.
"I'm glad you're okay, Angel-swan," they wheeze out, lifting their head. My jaw drops and tears start to form around my eyes.
"SANJI!" I scream in happiness. I launch myself toward, hugging him hard. I found them. I found my best friend. They can see that I'm still alive. I don't need to be alone anymore. I choke back the tears. I bury my head to his chest, gripping onto his shirt. I can smell his cheap cologne.
"Good to see you too. Welcome Back~" he said, patting my head. For that moment, I'm so glad that I'm back, but on the other hand….
"Ahhhh!" Sanji yelps, holding to his head. My knuckles throb in pain.
"That's making me worry and throwing the whole city into chaos. Where's Robin? The hell!" I said, lowering my voice. I don't want to get caught right now.
"The entire crew is looking for her. Luffy went to see Iceberg," Sanji said, shocking me. I just left that place. I shake my head. Take it easy. It's fine.
"Okay. do you have any ideas where she could be? Did she say anything at all?" I ask him. He nods and points to the train station.
"If Robin were to leave here it's either the docks…."
"Or the train" I said, finishing his look at each other and grin.
"Let's go find Robin!"