Nasty Naughty Boy

by Jester310

Kidd is too prideful and ignorant. Law is lost with an unspoken sentiment. Killer is enslaved with his sense of duty. Luffy believes he's in love yet he feels miserable. Veiled, this is their story of hopeless love. Perhaps, all they need is to bridge the gap of denial by admitting that love is many things –a scorching heat, a work of art, a healing balm and a timid bashfulness.

13. Day 6: Sanji And Robin Step In

Title: Nasty Naughty Boy

Chapter 13: Day 6: Sanji and Robin Step In

Rating: M

Summary: When the cat finally out of the bag, Law find himself cornered by not only one but two furious blondes of the ship, all thanks to his last night little mischievous act. But why is that underneath the anger towards the dark doctor and the awkwardness that comes flooding right after he wakes up, Killer still could feel the torrent of conflicting emotions.

A/N: Nyaaaa! This is my Christmas present to all the NNB readers, bless ya all for the reviews you poured with much love. All the subjects this semester have tons of projects and tests; it was robbing all my free time of writing fanfic. Anyway, enjoy!

Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Killer stretched languidly like a cat, minus the purr. He'd never felt so good waking up after a decent amount of sleep in the past few weeks. With the damn dark surgeon kept getting under his skin, his agenda with his captain, plus with the fact he's boarding on what could be considered as his enemy ship… All those events were slowly turning him into insomniac.

So what changes? What makes today different with any of the other hellish days?

Snuggling deeper into the warmth of the blanket, Killer paused. Weird, he didn't remember his bed ever being this warm before.

Tanned arm reached out slowly behind him until it made contact with warm, smooth flesh. And then the night came back to him, hitting the blonde like sledgehammer. Whipping his head around, Killer found the subject of his morning awkwardness sprawled across the side of the bed, lying on his stomach and clutching a pillow. His hair partly obscuring his face, the sheet was sitting tantalizing low on his hips.

Monkey D. Luffy was indeed a deep sleeper.

To ensure the mattress didn't make apparent creaking sound, Killer slowly rolled over and lied propped up on his side so could face the teen. As though his hand has its own mind, it reached out to brush the boy's raven hair out of his face. It was short and messy, but was still long enough in the front to cover the captain's eyes. The blonde's touch made Luffy stir. He rolled over onto his back and the teen settled back into deep slumber, the steady rise and fall of his chests indicated much. Hint of dark hair revealed by the lower sheet, making Killer's mouth water before he realized he was staring at the outline of the boy's half naked body.

Killer pulled back his hand in a slight panic.

Muttering a curse, Killer jerked himself out of the bed, but later falling on his ass onto the cold wooden floor and hitting his head on the table leg. The same damn table leg that hit his head from last night when Luffy pounced on him. The blasted piece of wood was lucky he didn't have his scythes with him right now. Or else the blonde would cut it into countless pieces and throw the unrecognized table into the sea.

Like a pirate, Killer cursed silently as he could and held his breath, peeking back over the edge of the bed at the slumbering captain.

Dear deities, what had he done? He knew it all too well, better than anyone else. Worse, he didn't feel shame and regret he was so sure he should be feeling right now. In fact, the blonde felt rather giddy.

Alright, that didn't exactly come out right.

Still on the floor like a sitting duck, Killer grabbed the collared shirt he recognized as his own and slipped it on, not bothering to button it up. Somehow he managed to gather his strength and stood up with a pair of shaken legs by using the bed frame as leverage. The blonde numbly reached for the loose sheet and covered Luffy with it.

Then he turned and dashed towards the door as quiet as he could with his low heel boots. With his hand grasping the doorknob firmly, Killer glanced at the sleeping figure again before turning it and slipped out of the room. Once the door closed softly behind him, the supernova slid down. At first, he just crouched there while leaning his forehead on one knee, shoulders slumped. For a few minutes, Killer tried to breathe deep calming breath. That's right, breathing was definitely a good thing. But it wasn't entirely a good idea since deep inhale of oxygen would only make the blood to rush to his head and became lightheaded. So the man decided to stop breath quite deeply, resisting the urge to knock his head few times on the wall just to clear his mind.

After what seemed like eternity, Killer finally loosened up and raised his head with a rather confident feeling. That is until he met with a pair of beady eyes belonged to the ship's doctor. In an instant, Killer let out a manly yelp, his hand flying to his pounding heart.

"Fuck!" The blonde gasped. He quickly glanced at the door behind him, expecting it to open at any moment, prying it wouldn't.

"Erm… Can you move a bit?" Chopper's eyes followed Killer's back to the infirmary door."…I need to c-check on Luffy."

The supernova snapped a startled gaze to the doctor. "What? Why?" His voice was a tad higher than he intended to.

"Well… I need to make sure he's fully recover." With confused look, Chopper corked his head to the side as though he was speaking to a child.

Trepidation immediately built up inside the blonde. He wasn't sure if he was ready to explain why the captain of the ship was sleeping butt naked under the sheet with the smell of sweat and sex still lingered inside the sick room. If Chopper was someone else, Killer could easily state that he had to remove all of Luffy's clothing to cool the teen down.

But then again, IF is a big word here. Knowing Chopper and his keen animal sense of smelling, the possibility for him to NOT smell the evidence of last night activity was none to zero.

The blonde took a deep breath as if calming something within and stood up fast enough he almost bumped his knees with Chopper's hat (he didn't realize the doctor was standing so close to him).

"You don't have to. His temperature already broke down." Killer said, trying his best not to sound foreign even to his ears.

The doctor started. "Still—"

Before Chopper could finish his retort, Killer grabbed his blue hat and lifted the reindeer off from the floor without an effort.

"He's fine. Just let him sleep." As the man mumbled, he dragged the doctor like he was dragging a soft toy, away from sick room. Killer felt something ugly coming to boil in his gut. Somehow he just wanted to be somewhere else. He wasn't running or hiding from anyone. Not really.

It's just that… Things would definitely get awkward plus ugly if 'that person' were happened to open the door due to the commotion with messy appearance like he had been fucked half way—Anyway, he just needed to leave. As in NOW.

So the retort continued as Chopper flailed under the mishandling and carried away from his patient. "But Luffy—Ohh heeyyy, waaaiiiitt!"

XxXxXxBreakfastxXxXxX

"Hey Luffy…?" It was Ussop who started it first.

"Hhmm?" Hummed the said person.

"Did anything…good happen?"

With his voice muffled behind the white porcelain mug, Luffy asked. "What'ya mean?" He had his head raised up to have a better view of his marksman.

Ussop sighed in exasperation and gave an equal glare at his captain. "I dunno. You look… freakishly…Happy."

"Doesn't he always?" Franky decided to butt in. "He's smiling like an idiot, grinning like crazy, still eating like barbaric… I don't see anything different."

"But—"

"You are imagining things, Ussop." Zoro mumbled as he chucked down his morning beer as if it was mere plain water. "We are lucky enough he's back to himself instead of hallucinating and tearing the whole ship down."

Nope. From Ussop vintage point, something definitely different about Luffy, but he couldn't pin his suspicion in place. Was it his hair that was messier than usual? The body shifting that Luffy has been doing for every five minutes? The way his eyes lingered on certain direction? Now, he has known Luffy for quite a while, so Ussop could practically tell what's going on inside Luffy's head just from the looks the teen displays. From Luffy, he'd known "Yosh, food time" looks and "I wanna venture that place even everyone says it's dangerous" looks. But the marksman had never seen the look his captain was giving now. It was probably a little whisper at the back of his head. Just a little paranoid voice telling Ussop something was definitely different about his captain today.

Swinging his legs back and forth, Luffy sipped his coffee thoughtfully before glancing at a certain blonde who was sitting not far away from him. "Nothing."

At that particular moment, Luffy didn't miss the jump in Killer's eyes. The blonde's jaw clenched, which sexily pressed his full lips together and the petite captain saw how the man's Adam apple bobbed down few times as if there was something dry stuck down inside his throat. Unbelievably, Luffy felt his nipples tingled while he watched Killer's broad shoulders shifted restlessly. So when the blonde raised his head hesitantly only to lock his eyes with the teen's dark orbs, Luffy started swaying dizzily. Luckily, he managed to put his mug down safely on the table instead of dropping it.

No man should be allowed to have eyes such as those!

Ussop was about to press the matter further until Law interrupted him.

"Why shouldn't he be freakishly happy? Mister Mugiwara had just recovered from his near death experience last night and it all thanks to Mister Killer." Law poked his leftover scrambled egg, watching the reaction of his fellow blonde supernova intently.

The fork in Killer's hand almost snapped into two as he broke into cold sweat. Luck was on his side because most of the crew was indulged with their own conversation but Law's statement still managed to attract few pairs of ears.

Without missing a beat, Law casually continued. "But then again, my decision to put him in charge was right. I just knew he would take a good care of Mister Mugiwara." The Dark Surgeon actually capitalized the last sentence as he spoke.

Something about the doctor's tone made Killer's stomach churn badly enough to make him wanting to vomit right there. He looked into the Luffy's eyes, noticing how the obsidian eyes widened a fraction before a slight blush started to creep from the boy's check, up to his ears and down to his neck. Killer didn't blame him. To make it less obvious, Luffy duck his head and his front hair fell forward; Killer had to clasp his fingers together to keep from brushing it back.

Oh hey, where did that come from?

Then, the blonde turned his attention towards Law to at least glare at the brunette. That was when he noticed it. The hooded intensity in Law's eyes had intent behind them that was anything but innocent.

The first mate stared at the dark skinned doctor for a good two minutes. Killer's eyes narrowed, a hint of horror flicking through them. Law smirked.

How the hell did he get that smirk even wider?

And then Killer forgot to breath.

That little shit! He knew! This was really getting dangerous.

Killer continued eating his breakfast, though his gaze had turned to frost.

Twenty minutes later, all the crew had finished their meal and started to leave the kitchen to start the day with their own agenda. It was sunny outside with temperature 22° C, accompanied by the nice sea breeze. Everyone had a plan on how to occupy their time until lunch time.

Everyone except for Killer and Law who stayed behind while having a staring contest. The look Killer was giving was enough to tell him non-verbally that the blonde wanted to have a 'man-to-man' chat with. Here he is, still sitting on the same spot as he stirred his newly mug of coffee with the spoon with every intention to make the dark liquid to cool faster. So when the last person closed the kitchen's door behind him, it was no surprise to see Killer stood up while pushing the chair with back of his knees so fast the piece of furniture tumbled down behind him and make his way towards him. Once the blonde was exactly right in front of him, only separated by the dining table, he slammed down his palm on it. The impact of the vibration caused the coffee inside the mug to slosh out and some had landed on the table. At that, Law furrowed his brows at the taint on the azure cotton tablecloth.

"Speak. What did you do?" Killer demanded. His eyes narrowed sharply and Law felt like he was being sniffed out by a predator on a hunt.

To make the chase more interesting, Law decided to temporize. "What makes you think I did something?"

Even with the nonchalant tone, Law still could feel Killer's irritated gaze. "Come on. It was too bloody coincidence, don't you think? That kid was healthy and energetic like he could swim all the way to New World during the day and all of sudden he was struck by hyperthermia exactly two hours after dinner, and you coincidentally picked me to nurse him despite the fact the reindeer is their doctor. Even if he really did have hyperthermia, why the effect was after dinner and not during the day when it was scorching hot?" His gaze narrowed threateningly. "Don't insult my intelligence, Trafalgar. Now cut the chase."

Damn he knew something was off with the way Trafalgar was acting last night. None of this would happen if he just deny Kidd's order and fight for his right.

Using the metal spoon, Law scooped the sugar from the container and dumped three spoonful of the sweet substance into his coffee, stirring it few times before sipping his caffeinated drink. He was well aware the blonde was beyond irritated at his drawling behavior.

"I still don't see why it is such a big deal. Mister Mugiwara had fully recovered regardless the reason or the cause. Of course, considering that nothing bad happened while he was under your care…"

The deer caught on the headlights look Killer was making was more enough to confirm Law's early speculation.

"Aaa… So SOMETHING did happen."

Most of time, Killer just wanted to hiss and spit at the dark surgeon but at the moment he could do or say anything except biting the inside of the cheek. It was like nothing came up in his mind that he could use to deny the man. "I-I don't know what you mean by—"

"You do realize you have a noticeable large hickey on your neck." Law pointed out.

Out of instinct, Killer's hand flew to cover the particular spot at the side of his neck. That's right, the boy did bit him back there, didn't he?

Law laughed. He actually laughed. "I lied. I didn't see that adorable hickey of yours, but your instinctively reaction just told me what I need to know."

Did Killer ever mention that this guy is evil?

"You're avoiding my question." Killer gritted out as he removed his hand just to button his shirt further up so his collar would cover the mark. For now.

"And you're not denying me. See, Mister Killer, you should thank me for everything. If I hadn't slipped the drug into Mister Mugiwara's drink, the two of you would—"

That sort of slipped out of his blabbering mouth. Not good…

Killer growled dangerously, raising the hair at the back of the brunette's neck. He didn't need to look up to know that the first mate was scowling down at him.

"You. Did. What?" The words snapped from between clenched teeth.

Law practically cowered against the chair behind him. "Relax Mister Killer. I can ensure you it was a safe drug! All the ingredients are natural and-and—"

Oh no, he couldn't stop himself from pouring out the words like a vomit and his un-functioned brain-to-mouth filter was making the situation a lot worse than it should have been.

The disbelief mixed with anger on the blonde's face was too much too handle even for someone like Trafalgar Law. "First off, the words 'safe' and 'drug' don't even go together. I couldn't care less how you managed to make the drug or what your intention is, but keep Mugiwara out of your sick agenda. Because of your so called 'safe drug', his temperature went skyrocket after you guys left and he DID almost die last night. What then, huh?"

"You care about him."

That's all Law comprehended from the blonde's violent speech.

"That's not the point! Damn it, Trafalgar! I made decision to leave you and Kidd alone and that's not enough for you?" The harsh tone made Law, the captain of Heart Pirates flinched. "Now what? You're going to rob my dignity too by telling everyone that I took advantage of a sick boy? Bet that was your plan all along. Maybe you're still not satisfy that Kidd still sees me as his friend, so you want him to kick me off board for good by making me look like a sick bastard while you sit there, watching with that fake, innocent—"

"Woaahh there, Mister Killer! None of those are my intention! Look, I admit the drug can be dangerous but if you think that it has the similar effect as aphrodisiac, then you're wrong. All it does is temporarily paralyzing Mister Mugiwara's body thermoregulation so I could get his temperature rose up and bed ridden." Law managed to finish up his explanation despite the harsh heartbeat that was killing him.

"Really now? So tell me, exactly WHAT game are you playing?"

This was really getting dangerous. If the next word comes out wrong, then all hell will break loose and the truce wouldn't be able to save him this time. Just when Law parted his lips to say something that could spare his life, a fake cough caused him to snap shut his mouth as he realized it wasn't Killer who made that noise.

"Please tell me that one of you bastards notice that I've been standing here for a very, VERY long time." So the person spoke as he leaned against the cabinet next to the sink, one hand shoved in his slack pocket. He took a long drag of his cigarette before exhaling a white, puffy smoke, studying the startled look on the Supernovas. The instant his voice reached their ears, both men snapped their heads towards him almost simultaneously.

So Sanji's assumption that the two shitty freeloaders didn't notice his presence was true enough. For someone that earned the title 'supernova' to NOT sense him being in his own lair was too bizarre, the cook almost snort. Maybe they didn't notice him because he was fixing the water filter housing under the sink right after when the crew started to leave the kitchen until Killer stomped his way towards Law.

That would actually make sense.

Although he had heard pretty much of their conversation, it was Sanji every intention to quietly stay there unnoticed until they have finish. But when the blonde noticed the conversation starting to get out of hand, he reluctantly decided to butt in. With Killer raising his tone few notes and Law's pathetic explanation, it won't take too much time for the crew to hear the ruckus and bust into the kitchen, demanding more explanation. The result won't be pretty. That, and Sanji didn't want these two morons to start their own war in here and breaks everything in HIS beautiful kitchen.

Based on that logics, Sanji gave them an equally death glare that spoke 'If you start anything that involves physical damage in here, I'm going to rip off your legs and make you stump around in here'. That worked and both men didn't say a single word as they turned their head back but not making an eye contact to each other. For the next minute, the room was in a state of dead silence. All they could hear was a deep breathing as Killer tried to cool his anger and the clinking noise of Law's spoon against the porcelain mug. It didn't last long when Killer distanced himself from Law only to head towards the stairs leading to the upper deck.

"Shower." That was all Killer's answer to Sanji's quizzical look before the long haired blonde climbed the wooden stairs and disappeared behind the hatch.

In instant, Law sagged in relief, but tensed immediately when something cold and metallic made contact with the side of his neck. It doesn't take a genius to guess that Sanji was placing a cleaver just right on his common carotid artery. One single move and even Chopper wouldn't be able to save him.

"So," Sanji was pulling his legs. "Luffy's dying state last night… it was your doing huh?"

"Regrettably, yes." Law answered careful enough not to make another blonde of the ship pissed at him.

"Now I have multiple reasons to kill you." The cook remained the blade on its position. "And no one would blame me if I tell them you were threatening me and I have to slash your neck open in self defense."

"Hey now, no need to be that harsh. Painful death is last thing I want—"

"Hush, I'm not finish, you shitty freeloader." Sanji cut him off. "But your death won't solve anything and in fact, it would only free you from the guilt and mischievous act you did."

"And…" Law prompted him.

"So I won't kill you because you're going to finish what you've started and deal with it in misery." Despite Sanji's promise not to kill him at the moment, the situation wasn't less eerie since the knife is still touching his skin.

"But," Sanji stopped momentarily. "If you ever pull that 'drugging' or any other stunt that can cause misbalance on this ship, I'll chop your flesh into smaller bits and feed them to the sharks in the tank."

To emphasize his point, Sanji put a slight pressure on the handle. "Did I make myself clear?"

"Yes sir." Law mumbled, half pouting.

"Good. Now get lost from my sanctuary until it's time for lunch. Don't miss it." As the cook finally lifted the cleaver off the tanned skin, he hissed out.

Being shooed away like a puppy, Law dragged his legs to leave the kitchen.

The outcome isn't anything like he had expected, Law thought as he reached for the door handle.

After the door had closed, Sanji inserted the knife back into the knife block and took another long drag of the nicotine treat. Then he stubbed the rest of the cigarette into the ashtray.

"I know you're listening, Robin-chan. Can you come up here for a second?" Sanji requested. He knew the archeologist had been keeping close eyes on those three shitty freeloaders the moment they stepped into the ship, so the cook was more than sure she had her eyes or ears somewhere and listening to them.

Call it a gentleman institution.

True enough, a minute later the door to the kitchen opened, revealing the raven haired woman. Robin stepped in and paced across the room before leaning stopping just right next to the kitchen counter.

The archeologist then leaned her back against the low sink. "That was indeed interesting."

"The fact that those two was being incredibly moron or the doctor drugged Luffy right in front of our nose?"

"Both." Robin smiled. "And also the last night secret our captain-san and Killer-san are keeping behind our back."

That caught Sanji's intention. "Last night? What do you mean—oh shit, don't tell me those two… did 'that'?"

The nodding movement from Robin made the cook groaned. "Great! Having anyone from the crew to involve with those three idiots is the last thing we need! What should we do, Robin-chan?"

"Honestly, I'm not really bothered with Luffy wanting Killer-san as long he really means it and not just one of his childish whims."

Sanji scrunched his eyebrows. "Wanting? Is this one-sided?"

"I'm not sure, cook-san."Robin honestly stated. "But Luffy's confession did cause him off-balanced and from his reactions this morning, it was everything but guilt. It was more like awkwardness and confusion Killer-san is experiencing."

"Woah, whoa, whoa! Hold on there Robin-chan!" The cook waved his hands dramatically." Luffy confessed to that blonde? OUR Luffy?"

"Twice."

Sanji felt like fainting.

"Once was during the party and the next one was last night just before they—well, I couldn't tell Killer-san's reaction after that since I immediately removed my ears from the room so I wouldn't have nightmare."

"Wise idea. But again, knowing that Luffy is capable to-to think anything other than food and finding One Piece, much alone liking someone… Do you think it's the effect of the drug?" The information of Luffy having a teenage crush was too surreal for Sanji to believe, he just had to make sure. He didn't care if he was acting a tad mean by treating his captain like a Martian who's incapable to love.

Folding his arms across her chest, Robin pondered deeply. "Most unlikely. Luffy's temperature had already broken down that time so I'm sure he was conscious of his own actions and decisions. Did you notice the way our captain behaved around him from the first day they stayed on our ship?"

"U-huh. The longing look like the blonde was a rare piece of meat and he would do anything to have a hold of him. Damn, Luffy's eyes were practically screaming 'I don't care if I have to obliterate everything in my path to make him mine!'" Sanji pointed out what he had observed so far during these couple of days.

The way Sanji imitated Luffy's expression made the smart woman to chuckle. "And Law noticed that and tried to matchmaking them."

"Yeah. He was doing a pretty crappy job if you ask me. This is really getting out of hand and something needs to be done. From the moment those three stepped into the ship until now, we've managed to prevent blood from being spilt and I really wanted to keep it that way." The blonde fished out his cigarette box from his back pocket as he mumbled.

"Should we nudge those two instead?"

The suggestion caused Sanji to choke on the tobacco stick. "And facing the possibility to have our neck slaughtered later? Are you sure, Robin-chan? If we mess up like the dark doctor did, it would be our life that—"

"But we are not Trafalgar, are we? I'll say they are lucky that it is us who decided to step in instead of others."

Sanji paused, imagining his other crews. Ussop… Too scared. Chopper… Too naïve. Franky…Too pervert. Brooke… Too melodramatic. Nami-san… Too freaked out. Zoro… all brawn for brain.

Nothing good would if those listed above involved. That would leave… damn.

"Alright, alright I give in. I'll handle our stupid captain, you'll deal with the other guy. You are probably the only person who can handle his temperament." Sanji's shoulders sagged.

"Remember cook-san. We'll only provide them a gently nudge towards the right direction. Good luck on your side." With that, Robin left the kitchen after waving a good luck sign to his fellow partner in crime.

"Shit. I must be out of my sane mind to act like a love counselor of a broken marriage." Hitting the back of his head slightly against the cabinet, the cook groaned. He didn't sign up for this. This is just totally beyond his jurisdiction.

Before Sanji could mentally prepare, the door again busted opened and stood there was none other than the subject under his care. Luffy stared at him. Sanji stared back at him. Both men remained silent as though challenging each other to speak up their mind, but it was Sanji who broke the silence.

"Something?" Sanji furrowed his brows and frowned.

To answer the blonde non-verbal, the captain only shook his head and stepped into Sanji's lair. His movement was too sluggish for someone like Luffy especially with his slumped shoulders and a clouded mood. Even the action of pulling the chair seemed difficult.

"Nothing." Like normal teenage boy, Luffy mumbled and sat down on the chair before resting his head on the table. He shuddered at the cold feeling of the table surface touching his left cheek. His index finger made an unrecognized pattern on it. Despite the long dark bangs covering his eyes, Sanji could tell they weren't shone brightly like they always does. Uncertain, confusion, protectiveness – all emotions were well blended and hidden behind his front hair. This was the first time Sanji has seen him in such pitiful state, it actually kind of broke his heart.

When Sanji moved from his leaning position and took a sit opposite to his captain, Luffy only responded by turning his head so it was his chin that rest on the table. His shoulders had slumped forward till the point they touched the edge of the table.

"Luffy." Sanji called out his captain.

In respond, the said teen only hummed lowly in question. "Hmmm?"

"Are you happy right now?"

Caught off guard, the captain could only make a quizzical look. "Huh?"

Sighing, Sanji repeated his question. This time much louder. "I'm asking you if you're happy right now. At breakfast you looked happy enough to grow wings, but now you looked like someone just killed your dog. What changes?"

At that, Luffy only made a confused face. "Sanji… I don't have a dog, Chopper is the only animal—"

"Just pretend you have one, baka! Now, my question."

The teen only stared at the invisible spot on the table. "I guess… I dunno… maybe?"

What next?

"Then you're sad?" Sanji studied the blank expression of the boy closely while his mind raced to think of something intelligent to say next.

"Nope." That was fast.

"Confused?" A feebly nod.

Now to rise up the notch.

"Is there something want, Luffy? That you really REALLY want?"

At first, the teen bit his lower lips indicating hesitation. Then, slowly but firmly, Luffy nodded.

"Hmmm… Then, what are you going to do about it?" The blonde asked as he tapped his cigarette into the ashtray.

"Dunno…" Luffy mumbled, burying his face into his arms. "'m thinkin'…"

Tilting his head backward, Sanji stared at the ceiling long enough to bore hole. Thinking huh? So that's the problem…

Luffy half-expected to be ignored by the cook. What he didn't expect was a hard smack on his head, causing him to yelp at the pain.

"Owwww, Sanji~~what did you do that for?" The captain rubbed the abused spot on his head and noticed what did the blonde use to hit him. A rolled thick magazine.

"Baka! Why would you do something like that?" Sanji hissed with the tobacco stick dangled between his teeth.

"Do what?"

Another smack on the head. "Thinking, baka! Why the hell would you do something as stupid as thinking?"

All Luffy could do was to stare dumbly at the cook, his head tilted slightly. "Then, you don't want me to think?"

With confidence, Sanji nodded. "Luffy, you're not a thinking type. The more you think, the more messed up the situation became."

"Hey!" The boy retorted.

Yet, another smack to left side of the head. "Shut up. Tell me, just when did you ever think before you act?"

So Luffy scrunched his face, hummed, and hummed and hummed, and tilted his head to the right, then to the left. It went on for almost two minutes.

"See, exactly my point." Sanji stated a matter of factly. "All you did by far was to act based on your instinct with zero intelligence. It's stupid, dangerous and beyond crazy, but the outcomes were always good, right?"

A nod. "I guess."

Well, knowing Luffy, Sanji could tell in one glance that the boy was still slightly confused. Now he really felt like talking to a five years old boy, really. "Look here Luffy. DO NOT think. You suck at that. Just follow your instinct and get a hold of the thing that you want the most. Do you get what I'm saying?"

The way realization hit Luffy like a thunder made Sanji sweat drop. It was too melodramatic. With lightning and thunder flashing in the background and Luffy made a choking noise.

"Anyway…" The cook clasped his hands together to wrap up the counseling—he meant conversation. "If you're looking for the other blonde on the ship, he's upstairs taking shower." His baby blue gaze turned lewdly conspiratorial.

Holy—he started to enjoy this, isn't he?

Luffy felt the heated blush begin in his neck and rise from there. "Wha—"

"Get lost Luffy. I need to think the menu for lunch." With his hand, Sanji made a shooing motion.

Flustered, Luffy stood up with such clumsiness; the chair toppled two feet away behind him. He tried to pick it up to put the chair back to its proper place only to have if fall back down. After a few fail attempts, the youngest supernova finally succeeded while Sanji watched the boy with utter amusement.

The Killer Effect huh? What the hell does that mean anyway?

Satisfied with the achievement, Luffy made a dash towards the stairs while tumbling mid air a few times during the journey. Just as his hand was about to reach for it, Luffy paused and turned around.

"Sanji~ What if—"

"There's no IF Luffy! Go! Shoo! Scoot!" Clearly irritated, Sanji barked, causing the poor startled boy to scramble his way up.

As soon as the captain disappeared behind the wooden hatch, Sanji let out a sagged relief. He wasn't sure if this what Robin-chan calls as 'gentle nudge', but at least he wasn't reckless enough to poison his captain. That shitty freeloader really went overboard this time.

Now all he Sanji could do is to wait for the outcome.

… And he still needed to decide what for lunch.

XxXxXx Bath House xXxXxX

In the shower, the hot water helped soothe his muscles and ease the turmoil inside. Killer put his head directly under the messaging spray, more in an attempt to wash out wayward thought of a certain teen than anything else.

But failed miserably.

All he could think was what had happened last night that was more than impossible to forget. The memory kept on replying like a broken record. He still remembered every single contours of the boy's naked body, hot and firm like it was made to cradle him. No, he will not fantasizing anything inappropriate. Before the Massacre Man could stop it, the images flashed through his mind again: gripping the captain's hips possessively, tightly enough to bruise the soft skin as he pound into—

Again, Killer shook his head wildly remove the images from his head. Sighing, Killer raised his face to the spray and savored the feel of rivulet running down on his stomach, across his groin and down his thighs.

'You care about him.'

Did he now? But he did recall the feeling when Trafalgar accidentally mentioned about drugging the teen. At that particular moment, something happened in his chest, something hot and unexpected. Most probably it was due to anger at the Dark Surgeon for involving Mugiwara, risking his life just to quench his goddamn curiosity. That wasn't all to it, wasn't it?

The little voice inside his head started to doubt Luffy. Maybe, just maybe, last night was just the effect of drug. The possibility was there no matter at which angle you're looking at. If that was the case, he should be relief, right? Since they could treat it like a onetime only and he could be freed from complicated relationship. Even so, why did something in his chest throbbed badly after knowing the possibility?

Circled, all he did was spin in circle when it came to Monkey D. Luffy. It was hard to believe how a simple-minded, adventurous boy managed to take up so much of his inner space.

When the hell did he stop thinking about Kidd – his long term crush – and start occupying his mind about the petite captain of this ship?

Distracted, Killer didn't hear the approaching footsteps. It was close enough when the blonde finally heard it and he spun around, only to choke on his own breath. His heart almost stopped at the sight of Luffy, who only stood there next to the bath tub. Just like last night, the teen's eyes blazed into him, made him wanted to say… something.

But he couldn't.

Luffy was in no better condition. What the captain wants, what he needs; now staring at him with his mismatched eyes. Those two sparkling jewels could suck him into despair and still, Luffy wouldn't mind. As long he means something to the man and have place in his life, even the slightest. His long bangs were scooped to the back, revealing an astonishingly handsome face. Just like he remembered.

Only, there was something off about Killer's eyes that made Luffy to take a few step closer. That caused the blonde to rear backward on instinct and when his back touched the cool surface of the tiles, Killer almost panicked. Cornered like a small animal, the blonde almost hyperventilating at the sight of the boy slowly approaching him. The fact that he was gloriously naked did nothing to help him in this situation.

Then the teen stop advancing, stopping just outside the range of the spray. Just enough for him to examine the blonde's eyes. They were lighter than usual and were almost colorless, bright with the pain similar when he first boarded the ship. The captain didn't understand. Didn't he tell Killer that he would never hurt him? His eyes, those perfect diamonds weren't this lifeless during breakfast so—

Something clicked inside Luffy's head.

What the hell is happening? One moment Luffy looked like he had something to say, but now the said boy didn't even speak much less moving. All the older supernova could hear was the shower spray and their breathing, deep and steady as he waited for the other party to make any sudden movement.

"That bastard… What did he do?" Luffy hissed between clenched teeth, his shoulders shaking slightly. His expression was so dark it was impossible not to tell that he was obviously pissed about something… or someone.

"What did he do?" The teen's eyes narrowed down, demanding answer from Killer.

Alright, now that was plain scary. Not to mention he didn't have the slightest idea what the teen was talking about.

"What—" Killer started.

"It's Law isn't? He did something, didn't he?" There was a clacking noise made by Luffy clenching his teeth.

It took a few seconds for Killer to finally grasp the situation. Luffy must have guessed that Trafalgar has something to do with his current well-being. Did he really look that pitiful?

"That bastard! I'm going to kick his ass." As the words spoken, Luffy turned away and ready to dash for the exit when a hand circling his wrist jerked him back.

Killer tightened his hold on the struggling boy. "Idiot! Stop right there!"

"But he—"

"Nothing happened, alright? He didn't do anything." Which was true, at least to him. It was Luffy that was done by him.

Luffy stopped jerking his hand and looked at the blonde, a slight frown adorning his childish features as he breathed hard. Whatever it was, the teen must had started to cool his head down before his cheeks tinted with rich pink color as his eyes raked over his body, across the muscled pecs where the treasure trail started and slowly travelling south where his gaze on the groin area.

Almost simultaneously, both supernovas gasped at the sudden realization: for Killer, at the reality that he was wet and naked, without even a single thread covering his skin – for Luffy, at the fact that he just stared at the man before him indecently. Which wasn't very wise because it did nothing but made his mind to shut down and there was a hot swirl of want at his stomach, making it hard to breathe.

In instant, Killer released his grip on the boy's wrist only to have his own fingers captured, just at the tips. Luffy gently squeezed the captured digits, his gaze was everywhere except on the blonde to avoid looking at him. Knowing Luffy, the older supernova knew his attempt to back away would be futile, so might as well confront the teen while at it.

Then again, should he be worried at his nakedness situation?

"Nee, Killer…" His name left the younger's lips that made his stomach clenched. Luffy still have his head lowered, feeling the tears pressing on.

"Last night… did you hate it?"

Killer stiffened at the tone used.

"It's just that you weren't there this morning—I-I thought that—". Sadness and confusion were broadcast in his tone and Killer felt like a royal shit.

The fear that wreck through the small frame of Luffy's body was just too bad. The shaking shoulders were clear evidence. The teen then stared into the blonde's eyes, licking his quivering hips, once, twice before taking another shaky breath.

"I like you…"

Luffy felt the older supernova went rigid in his hand as the man studied him, a slight frown to his features. That look, he knew Killer was hesitating.

A small feeling of relief flow through Luffy as he watched the blonde pondered, and he tugged the man's hand harder, making those uncertain eyes looked into his.

"Don't you believe me?" The captain felt so needy, so pathetic, and so weak. "I really li—"

Maybe that's what Killer needed to hear because he certainly didn't wait any longer to think and pulled Luffy closer to him. The sudden force of action caused the boy to stumble forward and his face almost hit the man's chest. And then the blonde leaned down and gave Luffy a chaste kiss, just the barest brush of soft lips against the boy's.

"You damn brat…" Luffy has never heard his voice like this before. "What the hell are you doing to me?" That voice that held to many promises of things that he could never even dared to hope from the older supernova.

Luffy chose not to answer as he buried his face into the man's chest, slowly inhaling the clean, fresh scent. He didn't care if his shirt started to soak in the moisture droplet from Killer's skin or the fact that they were standing under the shower spray. A slight tug of his back hair caused him to look up.

As Killer gazed into the Luffy's eyes, he watched water droplets plop off the tip of the boy's nose.

"…Luffy." The sound of his name spoken like a chaste kiss, made Luffy shuddered under his embrace, his breath started coming out in a ragged gasp.

"Tell me what you want."

With the dark and heavy voice, Luffy felt his hairs stood on edge and his mouth a little too slack to make out any word.

"I can't hear you." Killer's voice was getting heavier by seconds it touched something inside the youngest supernova, something deeper than anything else Luffy has ever felt and he had to take several deep breaths to control his racing heart. The captain's breath immediately hitched up when the blonde brushed the stray hair from his eyes and leaned down to lick his lips, coaxing an answer from him.

"I want you." Luffy circled his hands around the blonde's neck and twined his fingers through his golden mane, contemplating on what to say next. "…and I want you to want me." And the last of his words came up in a whisper, like it's hard to breath.

The next thing Luffy knew a pair of lips covered his, obsidian eyes shot so wide the teen gave up hope of being able to blink naturally again.

Killer patiently nipped him, as if giving time to get over his shock. His kiss was gentle and Luffy started kissing him back without hesitation. Then the captain felt Killer's tongue licked his bottom lips and then along his teeth. With a satisfied sigh, Luffy opened his mouth only to have another tongue driven inside, seeking his and the blonde growled in approval when he found it. To match the enthusiasm, the teen sucked the appendage into his mouth and curled it together with his. Within seconds, Luffy's knees started to buckle under him because of the intensity. Thankfully, Killer's arms were around his waist seconds later, stopping him from sagging to the wet floor. Their lower bodies were pressed together and even through his pants, Luffy could feel that his half hard cock was pressed against one that equally aroused.

As the blonde leaned down to deepen the kiss, he groaned at the feeling of Luffy's fingers danced in his hair without his permission. No one has ever made him feel like this, like the boy had reached into the soul and laid claim to it within his mouth. Hot? Definitely. And for sure Killer didn't hate the way Luffy taking his time tasting him, darting his tongue until the tip tickled the roof, licking the wet underside of his tongue, and then tangled itself around his own appendage. In fact, the blonde sort of enjoyed how the boy's teeth grazed his teeth over his bottom lip and at the feeling of growing hardness in his groin.

Did the boy manage to learn all this in just overnight?

Due to the heated lip locking, oxygen was leaving Luffy's lungs in rapid rate, light-headedness started to sweep over him. When tugging the hand behind his head didn't act much as a hint, Luffy made a whimpering sound. Only then, Killer pulled away and looked down at his flushed face, his pupils were dilated and the veins in Luffy's neck were visibly throbbing. In the middle state of euphoria, Luffy could feel the distinctive coldness touching his clothed back and realized he was currently leaning against the cold tiles of the bath house wall. Somehow during the lip locking, the captain unconsciously backed away until he couldn't anymore.

Paralyzed, Luffy stood there with staggering feet but still able to react with shiver as Killer licked and nipped his way from the earlobe to the chin, following the line of the smooth jaw till his toes curled. In that warmness from the hot shower, the blonde groped at Luffy's vest and and slid it off. He sculpted his hand over the captain's naked pectoral, his six abs and his lean, narrow, waist while licking Luffy's collar bone moist. At that particular moment, all Killer wanted is the boy's wet skin against his own, to have their hearts hammer against their soul.

"Ngghh… K-Killer…" Luffy gasped, the only thing that he was capable of doing at that time. Just how he was supposed to come up with something intelligent to say, to do when the older supernova was alternating between kissing his throat and sucking his nipple like that? Pleasure meddling with his thought enough to make his lithe body to start sagging to the floor of it wasn't for the calloused hand on his pectoral pinning him to the wall.

Killer pulled Luffy back up again so that he was standing on his feet and began fiddling with the pants while the blonde silenced the younger male with a kiss. Luffy groaned into the kiss as Killer pulled down his soggy pants and boxers. A small feral sound comes from his throat the soon the boy's cock was released from the constricting fabric. It's an angry purple in color, thick vein crawling in river up the ridge flesh with pre-cum already oozing at the slit. Somewhere beneath the familiar scent from the shower foam lingering inside the bath house, the blonde still could smell Luffy's arousal, that sweet smell of hormonal teenage. The odor was strong, it almost made Killer dizzy in the head. Killer slowly kneeled down and began licking Luffy's pecs, downward his stomach where the tip of his tongue teased the pants line until the skin there quivered. Down… and down… the blonde licked him all the way.

"Aahhnn!" Luffy felt himself gasp as Killer let his moist tongue darted out the little drops gathering at the slit.

The reaction sent electric jolt straight to Killer's groin. Ever so slowly, the blonde licked him along the underside of the captain's cock, from its base to where the shaft dipped and flared into the head. There he lingered, outlining Luffy's cock head with his taste buds. Then, in one deftly maneuver which took the captain by surprise, Killer took the whole length of the boy's pulsating cock into his mouth and swallowed the whole shaft down his throat.

Luffy let out an inaudible moan, his legs were bucking at the intensity of the moment. Every nerve in his system was firing off and exploding in burst all around his body.

The body above him spasmed, Killer felt the organ in his mouth throbbed, hot and salty with precum. His shoulders swung back and forth on his narrow hips as the blonde sucked hard, working his tongue along the shaft and sending a good feeling up the boy's spine. As the pace increased, Luffy's pants became grunts, his grunts turned into moans, and his moans grew into cries.

"K-Killer—uh! I think I-I'm going—" It was too late. Warm, fertile seed coursed out of his balls and into the blonde's awaiting mouth. String after string, he accepted the salty substance down his throat and swallowed it in one gulp.

Luffy slouched against the wall, panting hard and threw his head back with his eyes firmly closed. He could hear nothing else except for the throbbing sound in his head while his body tried to accustom the sensation running through his veins. Eventually, his spasm subsided and Killer stood up, pressing into the captain. The blonde leaned down for a kiss and slipped his tongue inside so Luffy could feel the sour sweet taste of his own cum.

"Mmm…" Was all Luffy said, spent. The captain made a rare, distasteful expression when released. "Taste weird…"

"You'll get used to it." Killer murmured, nuzzling into the boy's neck. He made a sharp grunting noise when Luffy grabbed his raging, hard shaft, stroking it up and down with his smaller hand. It was slippery with a good amount of pre-cum and Luffy sort of liked the thick feeling within the confinement of his fist. Killer hissed as the very hand found his sacks and began fondling it between his fingers.

"Wait." The blonde said tightly, his breath was hot against Luffy's neck. Even Luffy's own breathe quickened in anticipation.

Sliding an arm underneath Luffy's thighs, Killer lifted him up and shoved him against the tiles while the captain managed to kick his pants away in the process. With the man's arm and the wall acting as leverage, Luffy immediately wrapped his legs around the blonde's hips, feeling the man's hot dick pressing against his ass. Killer began rubbing his cock against the boy's entrance, causing both of them to gasp. He teased it around to let the pre-cum work its magic.

Unsatisfied with just the teasing, Luffy struggled to get the man moving. "Killer," moaned Luffy. "Come one…"

Killer chuckled at the boy's impatient demand. A push was it took to break through the first ring of muscles and they tightened over the width of his cock, then relaxed as it closed over the base of his head.

"Hurt?" Killer breathed, hissing slightly as Luffy dug his nails into his back.

The small chest heaved speechlessly and Luffy shook his head. The blonde began sliding his shaft up the boy's tunnel and it went in easier with the help of the trail of precum he was leaving inside. The hot innards seemed to pulse around his rod as Killer drove his cock into the delicious heat until his balls hung from his crevice. His breath came out in a most delicious sound Luffy have ever heard.

"Kuh… Told you not to squeeze me so much." Gritted Killer in his gravelly voice. He was stroking Luffy's back to get the boy to relax, kissing and nipping at the exposed skin of his neck.

To answer the blonde, Luffy inhaled a large amount of air before wheezing out through parted lips. Once. Twice. Until he felt his body stopped tensing and heard Killer let out an appreciation sigh.

"Good boy." That was all Killer needed before he pulled out until the head of his cock was inside, then inhaled again as he pushed back in. Somehow by using the wall as leverage, it made it easier for his cock to slide in and out.

"Nghh—Ahhnn—ahh—" All though became muffled under the intense heat. Soft lips kissed the captain's neck as he milked the cock inside with his inner muscles, forcing out a pleasurable hiss from his partner.

"Ah damn…Aaah—mmmhh—so goddamn tight…"

Luffy whimpered, wanting so desperately for Killer to go faster, deeper. Either way, their grunts were becoming louder. Luffy met Killer's thrust of his own, using his legs and body as leverage. The captain's cock, having swelled to full size, was leaving a path of sticky pre-cum along Killer's belly. Their bodies, were no longer wet due to the shower spray, the water droplets now replaced by sweat. From the scrape of his jaw against Luffy's neck to the slap of his thighs hitting the boy's ass-cheeks and the cock ramming inside, everywhere they touched it was sweaty skin against skin and nothing else. His cock from now and then hit something inside and tingling warmth rose and filled the teen's entire lower body. The pleasure just built and built.

Between clenched teeth, Luffy whispered hotly into the blonde's ear. "D-deeper Killer…more…" His arms strained, gripping those flexible shoulder muscles while the blonde's bellows echoed in the heavy air. The youngest supernova wanted him in as far as he could go so that the wall of his gut could mould around every millimeter of the man's skin.

Killer didn't say anything, only plunging inside with a harsh shove. Luffy immediately let out a silent scream. By then his cock had already loosened the boy's opening enough that he could plough him hard. He was going full throttle now, ramming in and out and his pre-cum making it easier and slicker. Even the blonde's breath became ragged and hot against Luffy's shoulder. It would take long for the coil in his belly to snap.

"Ngghh…Don't blame—k-kuh—me if you're—haah!—limping after this."

The pace was indeed fast and Killer wasn't slowing down. His assault on Luffy's cock, his ass and his skin was sending waves crashing on him. And Luffy was lucky it was the frictionless tiled wall that was supporting his back or else his back would be unrecognizable by now due to the force Killer was putting on.

"'m g-going—nnhhh—to c-come…aaahh!" Luffy warned him. On hearing that, Killer made a quick grab on the boy's cock, his fingers fisting up and down on the hard, veined shaft. He put a little pressure on the leaking, pink head , tracing the blue vein up on the hard on with his index finger.

Killer slammed into the lithe body once, twice, his muscles strained and his whole body convulsed. The blonde grunted continuously as he exploded inside Luffy, milking his male essence and filling the teen until the cum leaked out of the entrance.

"Mnnghh…s-shiiit—come one, Lufffyyy…"

Sparks of pleasure shoot through the tingling warmth and the said teen couldn't hold out anymore. The extra lubrication of the blonde's cum was what pushed him over and made his world explode. Luffy began to grunt, then cry, "Ah, ah aahh!" as the cum shot out of his cock, white ribbons spilling on Killer's hand.

After the last orgasm finally dragged out, Luffy felt the thighs supporting their weight buckled before the frantic movement freeze. Then they sagged before collapsing to the floor in a tangle of sweaty limbs. Luffy could feel something hot and sticky ran down his thighs as Killer pulled out to rest his weight on the captain. He welcomed the feeling and when the blonde's muscular arms swam across his back and cradled him against his larger body, their hearts thundering together madly. Nothing else matter at the moment.

A small smile glided over the first mate's lips before he leaned in to nuzzle Luffy's neck, sucking the flesh into his mouth which the teen knew there will be a mark after a few hours. Thrill of joy seeped through him when the captain realized that Killer had marked him.

Slowly, Killer came back to awareness, mainly because of a distinctively voice calling out the name that belonged to the teen beneath him. Judging at how faint it was, the blonde could only guess the sound resonated from the upper deck.

"They are calling for you." Killer murmured against the moist lips and leaned his forehead against the sweaty one. "You should go."

Half conscious, Luffy sighed out. "Nnnhh… do I have to?" His fingers against twined playfully around the silky, golden locks. It was amazingly soft. Even Robin's wasn't as soft as this.

The beautiful color in the blonde's eyes softened and Luffy stared in amazement. "You do. Just listen to me for once, alright?"

Still pouting, Luffy nodded reluctantly. He just wanted to experience more contentment in Killer's arm but at the same time, the captain wanted to comply with the man's request as well. With his jelly-like limbs, Luffy tried to push himself up but failed miserably and the back of his head hit the floor with a 'thunk'.

And he blamed the slippery floor.

"What exactly are doing…" with a defeated sigh, Killer lifted the captain up into a sitting position and picked up the discarded clothes not far away from him. He frowned at the drenched fabrics in his hand but slid them on Luffy anyway, causing the teen to yelp at the sudden coldness draping his body.

"Ewww! It's wet!" Luffy whined, wriggling his body in discomfort when Killer slid the wet pants on.

"Then you rather walk out of here naked?" The blonde questioned as he zipped the pants up and fixed the button.

Luffy shook his head almost childishly. As no argument came from the teen, Killer slowly stood up while bringing Luffy up to his feet. The boy wasn't limping, that, Killer was certain but he was obviously in messy state as though he was thoroughly fucked half way—

Alright, he really needed to discard those words from his vocabulary.

"You slipped on the floor." Killer suddenly spoke.

Luffy frown and looked at him. "…what?"

"You clothes… tell them they get wet because you slipped and fell into the bath tub." The blonde repeated, adding the extra information along the way.

The captain stared at him in confusion. "…but I didn't slip and fell—"

A light smack to the side of head caused Luffy to pause. "Baka, just pretend that you had."

Now this is really confusing. Killer is the second blonde of the ship after Sanji that wanted him to pretend something that obviously wasn't real. Is this some kind of game?

With the other hand Killer palmed his face. Bringing their lips close enough almost to touch, he whispered, "Alright?"

Pink color slowly made its way through the layer of Luffy's cheek muscles to the top surface of his skin as he nodded slowly. "I l-l-lo—"

Then Killer closed the distance with his mouth. It wasn't as intense or heated as before, but Luffy couldn't help from swooning over the simple gesture.

When it ended, all the blood already accumulated all over the skin of the captain's face and Killer shot an amused look. "I know… You don't have to keep repeating that."

Another peck to the moist lips before the first mate released him. "Go."

Just when the blonde thought Luffy was about to walk away, the teen tiptoed and kissed his left cheek sensually. Before Killer could comprehend what the teen had done, Luffy had already made a dash towards the exit, hot on his heels. Everything went silent after that. For a minute, all Killer heard was the dripping sound made from the shower spray and a faint conversation from outside, probably near the library below.

"Aaaahh! Lufffyyy! There you are—the hell are you wet?"

"nothing~ I slipped and fell into the bath tub."

"Haaah? How can you be so clumsy?"

As the voice grew fainter and fainter, Killer sank against the wall, ignoring the fact the water had now turned cold.

He realized his body was missing only the warmth of the teen.

XxXxXx Library xXxXxX

"….Killer-san."

"Huh?"

"Trafalgar."

"Huh?"

"I said are you alright with Trafalgar leeching on your captain right now?"

It was a simple question. It was supposed to. But for some reason his brain wasn't as sharp as it usually does and the only thing that Killer was capable of was to stare at the raven haired woman across him instead of giving her a smart-ass answer. In fact, the blonde didn't even realize when the archeologist arrived at the brain room of the ship and observed him for god knows how long.

Killer really didn't want to think of that.

"Oh my," Robin chuckled. "Before this you would snarl whenever you heard the doctor's name. I wonder what could have distracted you enough to make you stare at the same page for half an hour…"

The statement made the blonde winced inwardly. Half an hour? She had been watching him for half an hour? Which means he had been making a fool out of himself for half an hour?

"Mind your own business, woman." Killer retorted, avoiding a direct eye contact with the blazing blue one. He felt his neck warm and prayed for the damn blush not to make it to his face.

"Just believe in him."

At last, Killer raised his head, confusion was masking him. What is she getting at?

"What?" Of all the smart reply he could give, why did his tongue could only form this word?

"Our captain. It's true he isn't the smartest yet the hastiest person ever exists in this sea, but he never lied." The blue orbs blazed into the mismatched one and the archeologist continued. "Luffy means every single thing he says."

Killer went speechless. It was too obvious he had no come back for that. He didn't even know what to think.

"Don't ever doubt Luffy."

XxXxXx Midnight xXxXxX

The chilly midnight air succeeded in making the petite captain to shiver as he looked up at the crow's nest.

He's there isn't he? Luffy knew it wasn't Zoro who is doing the tonight night watch since the swordsman is currently snoring in the man's quarter, oblivious to the world. Then, the one's up there should be…

His gaze later dropped to the ground as in debate silence.

"What are you doing?"

The sudden voice behind him that seemed to appear out of nowhere almost caused the heart in the small chest to stop beating entirely for three seconds. Quickly, Luffy's hand flew to his chest only to feel the organ still beating and still pumping the blood along with adrenaline. Then, he spun around and stared at owner of the voice with a little shock mixed with relief.

Killer was standing not far away, his hand inside shoved inside his pocket.

Raising his eyes, Luffy swallowed nervously. When did his throat go Alabastar-desert dry?

"I—uum.." A fake cough. "I'm looking for Zoro!" The teen poured out the words a little too fast he almost bit his own tongue.

The blonde stared at pirate before him with an unreadable expression. It caused Luffy to fidget violently under the man's intense stare.

This kid really sucks at lying isn't he?

"Your bounty is next to Kidd, but you're still a crappy liar." Killer stated a matter-of-factly.

As expected, the captain tensed and went rigid for what felt eternity.

"Come here." Finally, the first mate decided to kill the silence.

"Huh?"

"I said come here." With his free hand, Killer gestured for Luffy to come closer. All his defenses seemed to melt as the teen's face lit up. In three big steps, Luffy closed the distance. Once it was close enough, the smaller male immediate wrapped his arms around the man's broad back and buried his face into Killer's clothed chest.

Killer almost tumbled back at the impact but managed to stand on his ground. Luffy's skin and hair were cold, probably because the little idiot was standing here outside for quite some time. It was midnight and all the other crew were already in La-La land so the blonde doesn't need to worry being seeing like this. His hand held the boy tightly, rubbing his back with one hand and combing the fingers of the other through his hair.

"Hey." The first mate called out to gain Luffy's attention. The replied he got was only the muffled questioning voice. "Hold on to me."

Then Killer tightened his hold around him and started to lift the smaller body up. On instinct, Luffy's arms went around his neck and his legs circled his waist to lock them together. The arrangement made it easier for the blonde to walk towards the rope ladder with him. Killer climbed straight for the Crow's Nest, rubbing the spine the whole way. When they arrived inside the slightly warm room, Killer sat on the cushioned bench with Luffy on his laps and leaned back against it. Those grips around his body slowly loosened and at the same time, he felt the tight knot in his chest unfurl, making it easier to breathe.

In a slow and careful movement, Luffy lifted his head to see the amazing eyes were looking down at him.

"Go to sleep." Killer murmured into his hair, draping the blanket he had brought earlier around their bodies up to Luffy's chin.

"Nnnhh…" Sighed the boy in contentment. It didn't take long for a snort to come from Killer's chest area and when the man looked down, Luffy was already fast asleep, snuggled up on his chest.

That certainly didn't take long.

Black lashed fanned his smooth cheeks, sweet breaths burst from his lips at regular, steady intervals. Killer inhaled deeply, savoring the moment and finally let himself fall into oblivion.

For once, Killer decided to trust Luffy, someone he barely knew, someone that managed to break into his inner space so easily in just a few days.

-To be continued-

A/N: Haahhh! How do you like that, folks! I know there are major OOC-ness especially on Luffy, but I couldn't help to write Luffy to be meek against someone he really likes. Anyway, review is loved!