Title: Taking the Lead

Theme: #15 Trial

Claim: SanjixUsopp

Words: 579

Rating: T

Warnings: Boyxboy

Disclaimer(s): I don't own One Piece.

"Sanji."

The cook turned around and realized Usopp had somehow snuck up behind him. He wasn't entirely used to the new ship yet, and for some reason the sniper had developed a habit of catching him off guard. It was a little scary, especially since they were standing outside and Usopp would have to open a door to get to Sanji. "Geez, Usopp, you gotta quit coming up behind me without warning," he said.

Usopp ignored him in favor of wrapping both arms around his waist, pressing his body against Sanji's back. He didn't say anything and started swaying left and right, pulling Sanji with him. "What's gotten into you?" Sanji asked quietly.

The younger shrugged, a motion Sanji barely felt against his back, and continued to sway. "Just wanted to cuddle," Usopp mumbled. He rarely talked about what he wanted when it came to affection; Sanji just always showered him with attention. "What're you doing out here by yourself?"

Sanji smirked. So Usopp had come looking for him. The older had decided to spend a bit of time behind the aquarium bar and smoke, hoping Luffy would stay out of the kitchen while he was gone. Even with the locked refrigerator, Sanji was still paranoid.

Usopp pulled him back from the railing as Sanji threw his used cigarette over board. "Dance with me?" he asked quietly.

"What's this? You're taking charge?" Sanji teased, turning in Usopp's arms and nearly dragging him into an embrace. "Have you ever led a dance before?"

Surprisingly enough, Sanji could almost feel the younger blush. "We-Well, I can dance!" Usopp stammered.

"Uh-huh," Sanji laughed. He leaned a little closer to him, pushing their hips together as they returned to swaying. "How many times have you danced before?"

"Hundreds of times!" Usopp exclaimed.

Sanji knew he was lying. "Can you take the lead then?" he asked quietly.

Usopp gulped but pulled back from Sanji and looked him over. He let him go in favor of wrapping both arms around his neck, then started leading the cook in a careful sort of sway. This time, he moved his feet and started turning to his left, prompting Sanji to do the same. It was an easy slow dance.

After a few moments, Sanji shifted his hands on Usopp's waist and made the sniper falter. "What's wrong?" he asked when Usopp gasped and lost his footing.

"Ah, sorry. I got distracted," Usopp blushed. "Y-Your hands…"

Sanji laughed, pulling Usopp closer and kissing his cheek. "Does it make you nervous?" he asked quietly. "You're doing just fine; Keep going."

The younger nodded and continued to lead the dance despite his shaking hands. His knees were starting to tremble as well, making their steps a little sloppy. But Sanji continued to let him take the lead, proud of Usopp for taking a chance and coming out of his shell. Dancing was an interesting way to do it, even if they had no music.

After what seemed like only minutes, Usopp stopped them and pulled back. Sanji wanted to question his intentions, but he let it slide as the sniper stood on his toes and kissed him on the cheek. Such a shy way to take the lead in his opinion, but Sanji didn't question him. He actually let his hands move back and stop at the small of his back.

Before long, Usopp lead Sanji back inside and decided the kitchen could go without a cook for a while.