Vacation
Part Four
Law woke to the familiar pressure of Neo's body on his. Only this time it was a bit different. She was constantly shifting her position in her sleep, trying to get more comfortable on him with her growing belly. She was going into her fourth month now. She still wasn't very big yet, but her stomach was still growing each day. He knew it wouldn't be much longer before she would, or had to, stop lying on top of him after their sexual intimacies. And he knew she wasn't going to like that one bit. He still never could figure out why she always laid on top of him afterwards. She just did. Even after their first time, he woke up to find her on his stomach. He didn't mind it all one bit. She didn't weight much so it never caused him any pain or discomfort.
Except for now. He easily felt her discomfort coming from their bond. It was still early so he didn't want her to wake up just yet. They had stayed up a lot later than they usually did last night. He wanted her well rested before they started their honeymoon officially. Though he figured it actually started last night, but still she needed to rest now so they could have fun later. So he placed his hands on her body, one on her head while placing the other on her back. Carefully he rolled them onto their sides, making sure to put her on her right side. She whimpered in protest from being removed from laying on him but settled back down when her body realized she was more comfortable this way.
Law then propped up on his elbow, resting his head on his hand while he watched her sleep as he debated on what they should do during their time here. It was about an hour and a half later when he started to feel her waking up from her slumber. He waited patiently.
Soon her eyelashes flittered open. She blinked the blurriness out of her eyes before lifting her gaze to Law. She said, "I'm really going to hate not being able to lay on you."
"I know," Law said, brushing the back of his fingers over her arm. "Just remember it's only for a few months."
"It'll be more than a few months since I have to work to get back down to my normal size," Neo grumbled.
"Time will fly by faster than you think," Law said.
"It better," Neo said. She shifted closer to him, pressing her nose to his skin, taking in his comforting familiar scent. "You smell so good."
Law chuckled. "I smell like sex."
"Well, we just did that," Neo mumbled before licking his chest. "But I don't care. You still smell good."
Law chuckled again. He continued to watch Neo until she finally woke up completely.
"So, my lover, what exactly are we going to do here?" Neo asked. "What do you do on a honeymoon anyway?"
"Anything we want," Law said.
"So we can have sex again right now?" Neo asked.
"We could, but then we'd miss out on a lot of other stuff," Law said.
"I suppose that's true," Neo said. "So what do you have planned?"
"What makes you think I have anything planned?" Law asked.
"Because it's you we're talking about," Neo said.
"Well, I don't really have much planned this time," Law said causing Neo to lift an eyebrow at him. "I did, however, think that we could just relax by the pool for a while and talk about what we would like to do while we're here. They have some brochures and schedules for different events here on the island."
"Oh, relaxing by the pool," Neo said. She trailed her finger over his chest, tracing his tattoo slowly. "Does that mean you'll rub me down with sunscreen?"
"If that's what you want," Law said.
"That sounds like it would be so very nice," Neo said. She slid her hand up around his neck and pulled him down into a kiss. "Though I'm not very happy about having other women looking at you with your shirt off."
"Well, I'm not happy at all when men look at you period," Law said, pecking her lips again.
"Oh, you don't have to worry about them," Neo said. "I'll make sure to make it very clear that I belong to you and I will never ever stray away from you."
"And I shall do the same for you," Law said. "So you won't have to get jealous if women do stare at me."
"You're such a good boy," Neo mumbled against his lips before reclaiming them.
"We should get going then," Law said through their kisses. "We need to get breakfast before we head out."
"Uh huh," Neo said, pulling back from him with the intent to suggest showering together.
"I'm taking a shower alone," Law said before she could say what was on her mind.
"Hey!" Neo protested. "You said we could do whatever we wanted!"
"I know," Law said. "But you become far too sensual in the shower. If we take one together now, we'll never leave the room."
"And that's a bad thing?" Neo asked with a smirk.
"No, but we're here only for the week," Law said. "I want you to experience the island while we can."
"Oh, fine," Neo said with a pout. "But we are taking a shower together after the pool."
"Yes, love. We can do that." Law pressed a kiss to her forehead before removing the covers from her and pressing a kiss to her stomach. "Good morning, baby."
"You can be so silly at times yourself," Neo said, running her fingers through his black hair.
"Only around you," Law said.
"I'm so luck," Neo said.
"I'm the lucky one to have you in my life," Law said kissing her again before climbing off the bed to take his shower.
"You're so sweet," Neo said. "Try not to take very long."
"Says the one who takes hours in the bath," Law said with smirk.
"Hey! I'm an Elemental! I'm naturally drawn to the elements!" Neo said, playfully glaring at him. "I'm supposed to take forever!"
"Lousy excuse," Law said.
"Oh! Go take your shower!" Neo said. She tossed a pillow at him, but he easily warped it back to her, making it land on top of her head. She jerked it off and stuck her tongue out at him. "Get in that shower you cheater!"
"I'm going," Law said before disappearing into the bathroom.
Neo shook her head. Rolling onto her back, she stretched out her tired body then waited patiently for him to get his shower done. Once he was finished, he opened the door to let her know. That was her cue to get out of bed. She did and entered the bathroom herself. Her eyes ran over the large bathroom. It wasn't as big as the one in her room back on Luminous, but it was still big enough to hold a shower, a large tub, and a hot tub. It was painfully easy to tell this room definitely had romance involved in the plans as this room was just as decorated with hearts as the bedroom. And she was going to make sure they used this room plenty of times before they left the resort.
She claimed another kiss from him before stepping into the shower. Getting excited to spend some romantic, quality time with Law, she did her best to not let the water entice her to linger under its warm wetness. And, somehow, she managed to get her shower done in a little under fifteen minutes.
"Fourteen and a half minutes," Law said, leaning back against the sink with his arms crossed and only his towel around his hips. "I'm impressed. I thought for sure you were going to take a least twenty minutes."
"Oh, hush!" Neo said, her cheeks flushing pink. She planted her hand on his shoulder and guided him out of the bathroom. "And you stay out of here for now."
"Why?" Law asked.
"My swimming suit is going to be a surprise," Neo said, grabbing the item she just spoke about, which was still laying where Penguin had left it and her dress. "I don't want you watching me put it on."
"It better not be a bikini," Law said, with a stern frown.
"Don't worry, my love," Neo said, walking back towards the bathroom. "It's not."
Law sighed. He got the feeling she wasn't exactly telling him the truth. But he let it go. He knew she never would flat out lie to him. He turned away from the bathroom just as she shut the door to get dressed himself. He pulled his black swimming trunks on then sat down on the bed to wait for her. While waiting his eyes drifted down to the Jolly Roger on his left leg. He wondered if he should get a different pair that didn't have their Jolly Roger on it. He didn't want to cause any unnecessary fights with other pirates. And he knew some were here. He hasn't seen them yet, but he knew they would run into some at some point. He didn't want anything to disrupt their honeymoon. Then, on the other hand, it didn't matter if they wore their Jolly Roger around. People knew their faces. He would just have to be careful to not get pulled into a fight with eager pirates. If that happened, he could have their crew set up a guard around them or, better yet, the Elementals. Their crew would be more than glad to take on a security detail, but he knew Neo would want them to have fun while they were here. The Elementals would also be more than glad to play security guards for her. They had already done it once yesterday. And they would do it if their princess asked them to. He nodded and it was settled.
"So what do you think?" Neo's voice then asked.
Law lifted his eyes to her. They widened slightly at the royal blue suit she was wearing. He walked over to her, running his eyes and hands over it to inspect it thoroughly, noticing it wasn't a one piece suit. "You look very beautiful in it."
"You're not upset that it's not a full body swimsuit?" Neo asked carefully.
"No, not really," Law said, kissing her forehead. "I trust your judgment completely. Besides, you're covered enough in this one. And I love how you can show off our baby and also hide our baby."
"I like that part too," Neo said, her eyes sparkling with delight. "I'm glad you like it. I also have another surprise for you. But I'm not exactly sure when I'll show it to you. I guess I can figure that out later when we decide on what we're going to do."
"If it makes you look as beautiful as this suit, then I can't wait to see it," Law said, gliding his hands over her hips to pull her into his body.
"Oh, we forgot about breakfast," Neo said. "We shouldn't have gotten dressed so quickly."
"That doesn't matter," Law said. "We can wear clothes over our swimming suits then take them off at the pool."
"Oh, right," Neo said. "Do we have enough sunscreen?"
"Yes." Law nodded. He walked over to their bags and started pulling out clothes for them to wear, the sunscreen, a couple towels, and a bag for them to put their clothes in so they wouldn't have to have them laying out everywhere. They put their clothes on, shoved the other items in the bag, and left their room. After reaching the dinning hall, that was half filled with people and tons of sunscreen and happy chatter floating in the air, they quickly gathered their choices for breakfast, ate, and they headed out for the pool with the brochures Law had mentioned before.
The sun was bright and very, very hot on their skin. It gave Neo a little concern about their crew and the Straw Hats. "I hope they're staying well hydrated in this heat."
"They'll be fine," Law said, pushing some chairs together for them. "They know how to handle the hot weather."
"Poor Bepo and Chopper must be miserable," Neo said, lifting her eyes to the mountain in the distance. "I bet Bepo will spend that majority of his time over on the cooler side of the mountain. Chopper will probably want to go there as well. We should go there too. We haven't been to snowy islands much."
"We will," Law said, sitting down to pull off his shirt. "If you'll stop worrying about the crews and sit down so we can talk. I need to put sunscreen on you anyway. I won't be happy if you get burnt."
"Okay, okay." Neo pulled her eyes from the mountain. She sat down on the chair beside him. "What are you going to lotion up first?" Her eyes looked at his chest then shifted over to a small group of women sitting under a red and white umbrella. Her lips curled down into a frown when she noticed they were clearly devouring him with their lust filled eyes. "See? You already have a fan club."
"Don't look at them," Law said, placing his finger on her chin to guide her eyes back to him. The second she locked eyes with him, he leaned over and kissed her deeply, making sure to drawl the kiss out to make his point very clear to anyone watching. "There. Now they know I'm yours."
Neo panted for air when he pulled away. When he spoke, she couldn't help but look over at the women. She smiled. Jealousy was clear in their eyes. And when she caught their gaze, they stood up and walked away. Turning back to Law, she brushed her nose to his. "You really are a good boy."
"Only for you," Law said. "Now remove your top layer so I can get you properly protected with the lotion."
Neo nodded and did as she was told. She made sure to show her pregnant belly off before folding up her clothes and placing them in their bag. She then sat down and waited for Law to start wiping the sunscreen on her body.
Law squirted the white lotion onto his palm. He placed a kiss to her shoulder before brushing the sunscreen on her skin. Once every inch of her exposed skin was covered, she took the sunscreen and lathered him up, getting more disappointed looks from single women as they walked by. When they both were ready for the bright sun, they sat back in their chairs. He had his arm around her waist, resting his hand on her thigh while she filtered through the brochures. She said, "Wow. They have a lot to do here. And a lot of this I haven't even seen before. Mini golf? What's that?"
"It's basically golf on a smaller scale," Law explained. "And the size of the course depends on where it is. Some places only have nine holes, some have eighteen, and some could have more than that. The more space you have the bigger your course will be or could be. And instead of hitting the ball hard, to cover a lot of distance, you only putt the ball, bouncing it off the wooden walls, over or through obstacles to get it closer to the hole at the end. And just like in regular golf the person with the fewer strokes wins the game."
"Sounds like fun," Neo said. "Can we go play it? Even just once?"
"Of course, love," Law said, squeezing her thigh. "We can do whatever you want."
"Oh, this is going to be so much fun," Neo said as she continued to run her eyes over the brochures. "We need to go to the theme park too."
"The theme park?" Law asked.
"Not to necessarily ride rides, but to check out some of the shows there," Neo said. She pointed at a picture on the brochure. "This one uses animals in their act. I want to check on the animals and see what all they do exactly and how they feel."
"When is it?" Law asked.
"It's at ten o'clock, one o'clock, four o'clock, and seven o'clock," Neo said. She looked up at the sun, gaging its position. "It's only about eight right now. We have plenty of time to swim then get dressed to go over there for the ten o'clock showing. And since we're going to be spending a lot of time outside, we can wait and take our shower later tonight. Is that all right?"
"Sounds fine to me," Law said. "And since we'll be in the park then we can get lunch there. Then how about we head over to the mini gulf course afterwards since it's also inside of the park?"
"Yeah!" Neo nodded. Giddiness started to swell up inside of her, which passed to Law. "This is going to be so much fun! Let's get in the water for a while!" She dropped the brochures in their bag, grabbed Law's hand, and pulled him towards the pool. "Come on!"
"Slow down, love," Law said, chuckling. "The pool's not going anywhere. And let me get in first."
"Why?" Neo paused at the edge of the pool. "What about your Devil Fruit powers? I forgot about that."
"There's nothing to worry about since you're here to protect me." Law pecked her temple before climbing down the ladder. And just as he thought, Neo summoned her water crystal to help keep him above the water. He then held his hand up to her. She walked closer to the edge, stepping down on the first step of the ladder, she took his hand, and he helped her into his arms. He spun her around, letting her feet drag through the cool water. "See?"
"You're so sweet," Neo said, wrapping his arms around his neck. "You wanted to hold me."
"I did." Law nodded.
"You know, we really need a pool on the sub," Neo said.
"What?" Law smirked at her. "Why? You have the entire sea to swim in."
"I can't always go outside though," Neo said. She scooped a handful of water and poured it on his shoulder before trailing her fingers down his now damp skin. "And the Straw Hats are still with us. Franky could easily-"
"No," Law said flatly.
"Oh, but Law," Neo said, fluttering her eyelashes at him. She forced back her laughter when she felt him wavering on his decision due to her hold over him and her big beautiful electric blue eyes. "We have room for a pool."
"Oh? And where exactly were you planning on putting the pool, huh?" Law lifted an eyebrow at her.
"We could take out one of the walls in the training room and extent it into one of the storage rooms. That way the pool will be part of the training room," Neo said. "The crew can use it for training too."
"No," Law said.
"Aw, come on, Law," Neo said, tangling her fingertips into the tips of his hair that laid against his neck. She moved her hand up, threatening to work him into a trance so she could get what she waited. She then took off his hat, placed it on her own head, and went back to working his hair. "I think you really want to add a pool in. If you didn't, you would have tried and stopped me by now."
"I'm just giving you false security," Law said, his eyes fallen half closed. He grabbed her wrist, pulling her hand down to his face so he could kiss her palm. "Now it's over."
"Oh!" Neo sighed. "I didn't move quick enough!"
"No, you didn't," Law said. "You got a bit over confident too in thinking you could put me in a trance."
"I guess I did," Neo admitted. "I'll have to be more careful next time."
Law nodded. "Now, no more trying to get me to put you in a pool. It's not going to happen."
"Fine," Neo relented. "I'll just stick with what's on the island. I can always try later to get a pool added."
"Oh really?" Law asked.
"Yes, really," Neo said, her eyes taking on a mischievous glint. "Like when our baby is old enough to join me in using our cuteness to undo you."
"Don't you dare," Law said, feeling slightly worried.
"Don't worry, love," Neo said. She blew lightly in his ear, making him shiver. "You have plenty of time to try and come up with a defense against us."
"I'll get to work on that right away," Law said.
"Nope." Neo tapped his nose. "You're focusing on me right now. You can work on that later."
"Fine," Law said.
"Good boy." Neo shifted her body so she could wrap her legs around his waist. They stayed entangled up in each other hold for several minutes, brushing their noses together, stealing several kisses, Law brushing his hands over body-in some places that made her thankful no one could see-before Neo decided to get some actual swimming in. She swam for twenty minutes straight before becoming tired from her pregnancy and a little dizzy. Law was instantly at her side when he felt her becoming dizzy. And despite her being in only three feet of water, he kept his arm around her waist, securing her to his side. She said, "Sorry. I guess I did a little too much too fast."
"Yeah." Law nodded. Without another word, he helped her up the ladder then over to their chairs. He sat her down on hers then pressed his hand to her forehead. "At least you're not getting sick. Do you need anything?"
"Something fruity and cool to drink," Neo said. "Think you can find that?"
"There's a bar over there." Law nodded to the end of the pool where several guests were gathered around. "I'm sure they can do one without alcohol. I'll be right back."
"Don't take too long," Neo said.
Law nodded and stood up.
Neo relaxed with a sign. Closing her eyes to try and get her dizziness to subside. She was tempted to use her solar crystal but then the dizziness started fading away. "That's much better."
"Hey, sweet thing," a familiar, unwanted voice said.
"Oh great," Neo mumbled. Reluctantly, she opened her eyes to see the brown haired guy from the swimsuit store.
"I didn't think I'd see you again so soon," Brendon said, pushing up his sunglasses on his head. "Mind if I sit with you?"
"Yes," Neo said flatly.
Brendon laughed and sat down anyway.
Neo pulled away from him and started to stand up.
"Hold on a second, babe," Brendon said.
Neo glanced over her shoulder just in time to see his hand reaching for her wrist. She gasped, standing up faster while summoning all of her crystals. In a slight over panic, she used all of them on him, knocking him into the pool with a loud splash that turned everyone's heads.
Brendon broke the surface, coughing and sputtering out water from the surprise attack. He then glared at Neo as he moved for the ladder. "How dare you do that?! I was just being friendly! Look! You've completely ruined my watch!"
"You were not being friendly," Neo said. "You were being intrusive. That chair is for my husband, not you."
"Not that husband thing again," Brendon said, pulling himself out of the pool. "I already said you're too beautiful to be tied down to one man. If you're going to marry someone then it should be me."
"I'm already married," Neo said, flashing her ring again. "And even if I wasn't you are not the type I'd marry."
"And what's that suppose to mean?" Brendon asked, stomping over to her with sloshy footsteps.
"Exactly what you know it means," Neo said, shifting her crystals in front of her. "Now leave before you upset my husband any more that you already have. I guarantee you won't like what he does to you when he gets here."
Brendon scoffed. "Yeah right. I'm so scared of your imaginary husband." He continued walking forward.
Neo was ready for him. Anticipating him to try and grab her again, she snapped out her vines, wrapping him up and holding him in the air like a human piñata.
"What the heck are you doing?!" Brendon hissed while struggling to get free of her hold. "Let me go this instant!"
She shook her head. "I warned you. Now you-" Her magic cut out. The vines unwrapped from him and he fell to his feet, stumbling forward to his knees.
"Ouch!" Brendon cried when his knees collided with the concrete. He snapped his anger filled eyes to Neo. Jumping up, he rushed forward to her, unaware of the blue sphere appearing around them and unaware of Neo's look of knowing what was about to come. He swung his fist at her. "You're going to pay for that!"
Neo vanished, Law appeared. He grabbed the man's wrist, instantly breaking his arm in four different places by jamming his elbow down on the man. The bone snapped loud enough to hear over the man's piercing screams, breaking the skin, causing bone to stick out in two places dripping with blood. Normally he would enjoy this type of pain he caused his prey. But he was too angry to enjoy the pain filled screams the man was releasing from his severely broken arm. No one was permitted to threaten his love. He jerked the man towards him, almost to the point of their noses touching. His steel eyes turning ice cold when he locked eyes with the man. He hissed, "Don't you ever, ever raise your hand to her again. You better thank God above and you're lucky stars that I don't just kill you right here and now, because I have killed for her and I won't hesitate to do it again. And don't you ever think about touching her again. If you do, I will kill you. Now get lost."
Law dropped the man. He watched him carefully as he scurried away in desperation for a doctor and heavy painkillers. His eyes then wonder over the other guests and workers at the pool. They were whispering in shock, but he knew they wouldn't make a scene. They knew who he was. It was obvious they knew. So they went on about their own business, even the lifeguards and other workers at the poolside went about their business.
"Thanks, Law," Neo said, walking up to him with their drinks in her hands, which he had been holding before switching places with her. "I should have known my magic would cut out right when I needed it."
"Don't worry about it," Law said, placing a hand on her stomach. "You two are safe. That's what matters. Do you still want to stay here for a while? He won't bother you again. I guarantee that."
"Yes. I want to stay." Neo nodded. They sat back down on their chairs. Law's arm went back around her waist, resting again on her thigh while his other hand took his drink from her as she took a sip of her own. She hummed in delight. "So yummy. Blueberries, strawberries, kiwi, and mangos. What did you get?"
"Cherries, kiwi, lime, and lemon," Law said.
"Oh, you wanted it sour," Neo said. "I see you didn't mention any alcohol."
"Of course not," Law said. "You know I don't drink much. And I knew you'd want to try mine as well."
"You know me well," Neo said before sampling his drink. Her cheeks puckered at the sour taste. "Sour but still so good."
Law chuckled. He kissed her temple then the two settled down to share each other's drinks and enjoy the calmness of the pool until it was time to leave. They wondered back to their room, talking about whatever Neo felt like talking about. He listened closely to her every word but also kept a close look out for that guy that insisted on bothering her. He had no idea who he was. He could be part of a pirate crew, though he doubted it since he didn't see a Jolly Roger anywhere on him. Still it was possible. Or he could be someone else. He easily noticed the man was well dressed so he probably had a lot of money. And that would also account for his one track mind of feeling he had the right to hit on his wife. He didn't doubt that they would see him, or someone else the guy knew, before they left the island. He really didn't mind much. He could easily handle whatever came their way. He just didn't want Neo's honeymoon to get interrupted by an avoidable bloodbath. He was really starting to consider having the Elementals for a barrier around them. But then they'd be with someone all the time. That would defeat the purpose of their honeymoon.
"Law," Neo's voice said. Her hand then cupped his face, pulling his eyes towards her. She pulled him down into a kiss. "It's fine. You don't have to have the Elementals or the crew around to guard us. I'm having a great time. It's just normal that some jerk is going to act like that guy did. I don't care. We're here together. And that's the only think that matters. Now stop getting distracted."
"I'm sorry, love," Law said. "I'm just a bit worried because he was so close to touching you."
Neo nodded. "I know. But I saw it coming and was able to stop him. I'm fine." She took his hands and placed them on her stomach. "We're fine. No more worrying?"
"No more worrying," Law said.
"Good boy." She kissed him again then pulled him inside of their room, which he didn't even noticed they had reached yet. Once inside they both changed quickly then headed back out. They continued to talk while they walked towards their destination, fingers lazily intertwined. Only difference this time, Neo was summoning her earth crystals to grow her some apples and a few other fruits and vegetables when she got the craving for them. She shared with Law when he pulled her hand over to him for a bite. Before long they reached the tent where the magic show would be held in just a few minutes. "Huh?"
"There are Elementals here," Law said, feeling the exact same thing as Neo.
"Do you think they're part of the show?" Neo asked. "I can sense the animals and they are some of the happiest I've ever felt."
"They must own the show," Law said, guiding her inside of the tent. He guided them to a couple empty chairs in the front row. He sat her down in the chair on the end, so the person who sat beside them couldn't touch her, and sat down with her.
"I think you might be correct," Neo said. "I feel about nine Elementals in the back of the tent." She looked around at the people who had already gathered in the tent with them. "I wonder how many here know the Elementals aren't human. This is going to be interesting to see on more than one level."
"I bet." Law nodded.
"Think they use their crystals in their act?" Neo asked.
"I bet they do since the stage doesn't actually have a floor," Law said, looking at the circular stage in front of them. "They'd be able to bring more tricks and illusions into their acts if they did. We'll probably be seeing a flying dog here pretty soon."
"That will be so cute to see," Neo said. "I mean, as long as the dog's not afraid of flying. But with Elementals in control I'm sure the animals will have complete trust in their handlers."
"Indeed," Law said with another nod.
The lights when out, casting them all into darkness, and causing everyone to get quiet with only a few murmurs of excitement. Three spotlights lit up three different spots on the stage. The tent when completely quiet then as three flowers began to sprout out of the ground. The two on the sides were dark blue with trims of purple while the middle one was completely white. They grew to about five feet tall before blooming out to reveal three Elementals, all earth controllers, who tossed up glitter into the air when they emerged. The glitter rained down on them. The Elementals stepped down from their flowers and started to dance around in their elaborate outfits that resembled leaves and flowers.
Other flowers sprouted out of the ground, streams of water weaving through out them followed them. Elementals came out of the flowers again. They slipped into the water current then jumped out of it with bursts of water following them. The crowd gasped. Questions of how this was possible ran through the tent. Neo and Law exchanged smiles. It was very clear some people were still not aware of the Elementals.
Then the animals were brought in. Birds flew out of all the elements then around the tent, being spotlighted while dropping small gifts of colorful flowers onto the crowd below them. A couple wind Elementals even lifted a few people into the air with them, flying them around before settling them back into their chairs. Applauses erupted. Dogs ran out onto the stage. They instantly dove into the obstacle course the Elementals set out for them with their crystals. They ran across vine bridges, jumped from flower to flower, stood up on their hind legs, and other various tricks like that.
Neo watched with childlike amazement. She grabbed onto Law's arm when the dogs started jumping through fire hoops. She squealed. Her heart thudding in worry for the dogs despite being able to feel the fire Elementals pushing the fire away from the dogs and the water Elementals readying their crystals just in case something when wrong. And before anyone knew, the show came to an end with one of the dogs running out into the audience and jumping into Neo's lap. She squealed with delight at the furry animal in her arms and licking her cheek.
"Thank you all for coming," an Elemental announced, the one who came out of the white flower. "We hope you all enjoyed the show and will come see us again."
The crow applauded. The lights on the stage went out just as the main lights came back on. Everyone started filing out of the tent, talking in excitement on what they had just seen. Some kids asking their parents if they could go up and look at the stage to see if they could figure out how the tricks were done. But no one did. They all just left leaving the pirates and the Elementals the only ones in the tent.
"Princess," the announcer said, walking over to the pirates. She was followed by the rest of the Elemental performers. They all gathered in front of Neo and took to their knee. "It is an honor to have you grace our show. Was it to your liking?"
"Yes," Neo said, her hand stroking over the dog's soft fur. "It was amazing. I never would have thought to use my crystals in the way that you all did. And you all are taking very good care of the animals. I am pleased."
"Thank you, Princess." The announcer looked up with a smile. "We are glad that you approve of how we are running our show here. We did not expect to be putting on a show for you, even though we were informed you were here."
"I guess Topaz has been here," Neo said.
"Indeed," the announcer said. She stood up, as did the rest. "Forgive us. But we must retreat to the back of the tent. We have to see to the animals and get prepared for the next show."
"Yes, of course," Neo said, cuddling the dog. "You're just so cute. I wish I could take you home with me."
"Neo, give the dog back now," Law said.
"I know, I know," Neo said, handing the dog back over to the announcer. "Bye, bye you cute furry little baby."
"Excuse us, Princess," the announcer said. With another bow, the Elementals walked away.
"Law," Neo said.
"I know," Law said, wrapping her back into his arm. He kissed her temple. "But you know we can't have a dog on the sub. It wouldn't be fair to the dog."
"I know," Neo said. "I still want one though."
"Maybe some day," Law said, guiding her towards the exit of the tent. "For now lets just get something to eat."
"Yeah!" Neo nodded. "I'm so hungry! I want a corndog! Some popcorn! I feel like something sweet too! So we can share some ice cream!"
"All right, all right," Law said, looking around. "Let's see what we can find."
"There!" Neo announced. She pointed at a white stand that was selling both popcorn and corndogs. She pulled Law over to it, all but dragging him all the way.
"What can I get for ya?" the man asked.
"Two corndogs, a large popcorn, and two sweet teas," Neo said.
"Right away." The man turned around and gathered up their order.
When Neo received it, she piled condiments on her large corndog. She said, "Get some ketchup…some mustard…oh! And definitely some relish! Lots and lots of relish!"
The man lifted an eyebrow at her while his hand reached for the money Law was holding out.
"Pregnant," Law said, answering the unasked question.
"Ah," the man drawled. "I see. Well, congratulations you two. I hope you have a healthy baby."
"Thank you," Law said, gathering their meal.
Neo mumbled an incoherent "Thank you" as well through the large bite of condiment covered corndog. She followed Law over to a small round table where they sat to enjoy their meal. Law watched in amusement as Neo piled popcorn on her corndog and ate it. "This is so yummy! Law! You have to try it!"
"No, thank you," Law said. "I'm good with my regular corndog."
"Okay! But you don't know what you're missing!" Neo sang.
"I'll survive." Law smiled then took another bit of his corndog.
"It's all so yummy," Neo said. "But the tea is a bit too sweet. Maybe I should carry around my own tea from now on. What do you think?"
"You could do that," Law said.
Neo hummed in consideration. "Maybe. It would give me access to how I like my tea, but then it would also give me something to keep up with. I could easily lose my cups when we engage in battle. I'll have to put more thought into it to decide. We're definitely going to have to eat here again. The cornmeal is absolutely fabulous! It almost tastes sweet itself! I'll have to try some experiments for corndogs back on the sub!"
"I'm sure the crew will love that," Law said.
"So, we're going to the mini golf course next, aren't we?" Neo asked.
"Unless there's something else you want to go do first," Law said.
"I don't think so," Neo said. "I really want to see this mini golf course. Then maybe we can do a few of the calmer rides. There's this one called The Tunnel of Love. Does that mean people have sex in a tunnel?"
A couple people next to them busted up laughing.
"What?" Neo asked, innocently. "What did I say?"
"Haven't you ever been to an amusement park before?" the lady asked.
"I have." Neo nodded. "But I don't recall a ride like that one being there."
"So you've never heard of The Tunnel of Love?" the man asked.
"No." Neo tilted her head curiously. "That's not a bad thing."
"Of course not," the woman said.
"Then why did you laugh?" Neo asked. "Was my question really that funny?"
"We apologize," the woman said. "We just never heard anyone but kids ask question so bluntly like that before."
"I can be a bit naïve," Neo admitted. "I had a bad childhood so I'm lacking in some knowledge."
"I see," the man said.
"In that case," the woman said. "The Tunnel of Love is just a water ride. You float through a romantic setting inside of a tunnel. No one has sex on it. Or they're not supposed to. I'm sure some deviants at some point had a little tryst on the ride."
"I see. Well, thanks for tell me," Neo said. "It still sounds like a fun ride."
"It can be." The woman nodded while she and the men she was with gathered up their things and walked away. "Have a nice day!"
"You too!" Neo waved to them then turned back to Law. "They were nice. They didn't make fun of my lack of knowledge either." She turned back to her corndog, devouring it and about half the popcorn within a few more bites. "That was so yummy! Shall we go now?"
Law nodded. Popping the last bite of his own corndog into his mouth, he stood up with her and they headed towards the mini golf course.
"Wow!" Neo exclaim when they finally reacted it. The mini golf course was decorated with tons of plastic animals, basically resembling a zoo. "It's so cute!"
"Yeah." Law nodded in agreement for her sake. He really didn't care what the mini golf course looked like.
"So where do we start?" Neo asked looking around at the confusing course.
"We start with that small building over there." Law pointed to the building he was talking about. It was small, two rooms, with a young woman sitting inside as she handed out balls and putters. He took Neo's hand and walked over to the building. He pay for their game then guided Neo over to the first hole. They waited a couple minutes for the small group ahead of them to move through the first hole. Neo watched closely as they placed their balls down on the fake green grass and smack their balls.
"Oh, so that's all you do?" Neo asked.
"Yes." Law nodded. "Would you like to go first?"
"I, uh, guess so," Neo said. She stepped up to the green. Placing her ball down on the fake grass, she took her putter in both hands awkwardly fumbling with it for a moment before becoming frustrated with herself.
"Calm down, love." Law propped up his own putter against a fake elephant before stepping behind her. He put his arms around her and showed her how to properly hold the putter and guided her through her first hit. "Separate your hands like this. Then pull back and tap the ball."
"Eek! It moved!" Neo exclaimed. She watched as the ball bounced against the woodened side then rolled right next to the hole. "Wow! Thanks, Law! I think I can do it now!"
Law nodded. He reclaimed his putter and hit his own ball. He hit it purposefully a little harder than he should so it would bounce away from the hole. He wanted to let Neo get comfortable with the game before he put more pressure on her. Little did he know she didn't need a handicap from him. After the first four holes she got the hang of the game easily enough and was beating him. He shook his head when she made her fifth hole in one. "If I didn't know you better, I'd think you were cheating with your crystals."
"You know I'd never do that," Neo said, smiling. "I guess I'm just a natural at this game. I didn't think I'd have so much fun."
"Hm?" Law looked down when he felt something tug on his pant leg. His eyebrows rose when he saw a little round face, with little round green eyes staring up at him.
"Law, it's your-is that a baby?" Neo turned to Law. Her eyes immediately followed his dropped gaze to find what he was starting at.
"Apparently so," Law said.
"He's cute," Neo cooed. She walked over and bent down to the baby. "Hello, little one. Where's your mommy? Is she here?"
Law looked around. No one seemed to be in a panic over losing a child. "Doesn't look like anyone around here is missing a child. Or they haven't noticed yet."
"Where do you think he came from?" Neo asked. She watched with a smile as the baby started pulling on Law's pant leg and making noises. "What does he want? He keeps pulling on your jeans and making noises."
"He wants me to pick him up," Law said.
"Pick him up then," Neo said.
Law frowned.
"Oh, come on, Law," Neo said, smiling up at him. "I want to see you holding a baby."
"You'll see me holding one when ours comes," Law said.
"You're such a meanie," Neo said. She dropped her eyes back down to the baby. Part of her wanted to pick the child up, to protect him, but another part of her wasn't ready to hold a baby yet. She was still nervous about hurting such a fragile thing with what she had done in the past.
Then the baby turned his eyes to her. He wobbled on his stubby little legs, just staring at her like he was trying to figure her out. Then a smile spread across his face. He released Law and all but ran over to the young woman, grabbing onto her. Neo gasped in shock. Her heart thumped against her chest as her anxiety rose. She pulled away from the kid but stopped when she felt Law wrap his presence around her. After several seconds, she allowed her hands to slowly lift up to the child's body. Once he was firmly in her hold, all of her anxiety released from her body. She stood up carefully. "He's so tiny. How old do you think he is?"
"Considering he's pretty stable on his feet he's probably close to being a year old," Law said, loving the site of seeing Neo holding a baby, if only it was theirs.
"What should we do with him?" Neo asked while the baby patted her cheeks with his chubby little hands.
"We'll notify a park employee," Law said nodding towards the small building where they paid for their game. "They'll contact the park authorities. And they'll take care of it from there."
"We'll have to hand him over to strangers?" Neo's voice was full of alarm as her eyes started to fill with tears. "He's just baby, Law. We can't do that to him."
Law instantly realizing he should have chosen his words better. He pulled her to his chest. "Don't cry, love. He'll be just fine. The workers here are trained to take care of issues like this. I promise they'll take very good care of him."
"You mean it?" Neo asked.
"Yes." Law nodded firmly. "But if you really get a bad feeling leaving him with whoever comes, we can stay with him until we find his parents."
"Thanks, Law! You're the best!" Neo said. She firmly held the child in her arms while Law gathered up their gaming supplies.
"Come on," Law said, guiding her towards the small building. "Excuse me."
"Yes?" the girl asked. "Huh? You two didn't have a baby when you came in here."
"He wondered over to us," Law said. "We think he wondered away from his parents. Could you contact the park authorities?"
"Of course! Right away!" She jumped off her seat and ran over to the transponder snail.
"Do you think he needs anything?" Neo asked. "Food? Water? Maybe a diaper change?"
"We don't have any diapers to change him with," Law said.
"I guess so," Neo said. "But I'm still worried he might need something. Do you think he's hungry?"
"No, he's not hungry," Law said. He watched at the baby finger Neo's face and her hair. "If he was he would be fussing. And he's obviously happy right now."
"So I'm doing just fine by holding him like this?" Neo asked. "Should I hold him differently?"
"Love, you're doing just fine," Law said. "He's not fussing in any kind of way so he's content right now. Just relax. Try talking to him."
"Okay, okay," Neo said, trying to do as he said. "I'm trying, I'm trying." She thought for a second on what to say. "So, how are you doing, little one?"
The baby smiled at her, putting her more at ease.
"Oh, you really are a cute little thing," Neo said, her eyes running over his features, noting that his hair was just fuzz and going to be very black. "Looks like you're going to have black hair. With your bright green eyes I think you're going to be a very handsome young man some day."
The baby's grin brightened at her words as if he understood or was agreeing with her.
"I think you just agreed with me," Neo said. "Well, you better not get a big head over your looks. Girls won't like you if care more about your looks than being with them."
Law leaned against the building, calmly taking Neo in as her maternal instincts started coming over every bit of her anxiety. He knew right then and there that they were going to be with this kid until they found his parents and personally delivered him to them.
"We're in luck," the woman said, walking back over to them. "The kid's parents are already at the security base. They've been so worried about him. They're sending over a unit to take the baby to them. I hate to ask, but could you two stay here and watch the kid? I don't have time to watch him and take care of my guests at once. It'll only be about ten minutes."
"Sure." Law nodded. He then slipped his arm around Neo's waist, guiding her away from the forming line and to a picnic table underneath a small tree. "We'll wait here."
"At least he doesn't have to wait for long to be reunited with his parents," Neo said, sitting down. "Isn't that exciting, baby? You'll get to see your mommy and daddy soon."
The baby giggled.
"I don't think he even knows the worry he's put his parents through," Neo said, tickling the baby under his chin. "You silly baby. You're blissfully unaware of the trouble you've caused."
The baby grabbed her finger. He inspected it for a few seconds before pulling her digit into his mouth. His eyes drifted to Law. They lit up when seeing the Surgeon of Death. He reached for Law with his one free hand.
"I don't think so, kid," Law said.
"But he likes you," Neo said. "You should hold him."
"Not going to happen," Law said.
"Uh!" The baby protested with a disapproving grunt when Law didn't pay him any mind. He threw his tiny arms around Neo and grunted again. "Uh! Uh!"
"Don't worry about it, baby," Neo said, rubbing his back. "We'll get him to hold you before you're returned to your parents."
"Don't count on it," Law said, leaning back against the table.
"He's only talking big," Neo whispered to the baby, but still loud enough for Law to hear her. "He actually likes you. I can tell. We're bonded. He can't keep secrets from me for long. Just you watch. He'll cave soon and hold you even for a second."
Law scoffed but didn't say anything. He continued to lean back against the table unable to stop himself from taking several glances over at Neo and the baby. He just couldn't miss this opportunity to see Neo holding a baby, even if it wasn't theirs. It made his heart race inside of his chest. He loved the sight of her holding a baby. It just suited her. And it made him feel so impatient on wanting to see her holding their own child.
Neo giggled upon feeling Law's gaze on them. Her bells shocked the baby. He bounced up and down in her lap. "You like my bells, don't you?"
The baby fingers Neo's lips, trying to figure out where the bells were coming from. After a minute of getting nowhere, he leaned over to Law, wiggling his little fingers at the surgeon. "Baa, ba, ah, ah."
"Not happening, kid," Law said.
Neo grinned, moving the baby closer to her husband so the baby could grab his shirt.
"Neo," Law said.
"What?" she asked innocently.
Then, before Neo could move the baby any closer to him, two security guards walked over to them, one man and one woman. The woman said, "So there you are, little guy. Your parents have been so worried about you. You must be the good folks who've been taking care of him."
"Yeah." Law nodded.
"Well, let's get this little guy back to his parents," the man said.
The woman nodded and reached out for the baby. But the baby didn't want to go with them. He screamed and grabbed onto Neo. The woman said, "Oh dear."
"There, there," Neo said, patting the baby's back. "It's all right."
"Why don't we ride along with you?" Law asked. "The baby seems to have taken a liking to my wife."
"It seems the feeling is mutual," the woman said. "But, sure, it's not a problem. Let's go."
The pirates stood up. They piled into the back seat of a small motor ran vehicle and took off. During the ride the baby finally got into Law's lap. He all but lunged onto Law when he and Neo were distracted for a second. Law frowned as the baby smiled up at him.
"Told you he would make it," Neo said. She watched as the baby's fast hands snatched Law's hat off his head.
The baby started gnawing on the hat brim. It only lasted a few second before the baby's face twisted into a sour expression. He then tossed then hat to the floor and leaned back for Neo.
Neo gladly took the baby back in her arms while Law grumbled to himself as he picked his hat up off the floor. She said, "Told you he likes you."
"Yeah. Sure," Law mumbled.
The vehicle then pulled to a stop in front of a rather large, two story building. As they got out they heard a woman's cries, "My baby!"
"He's all right, ma'am," the woman guard informed her as she and her husband ran up to them with several kids, all of them with the same black hair and green eyes. "No injuries what so ever."
The husband was trying to corral five other rambunctious kids, one a teenage girl, as they moved over to them. The woman reached them first and plucked her baby from Neo's arms. Neo jumped at the unexpected brush of the woman's hands on her skin. Her heart started pounding wildly but stopped when Law placed his hand on her back, rubbing her back into a relaxed state.
"These are the nice folks that found him and took good care of him until we could bring him here," the male guard said.
"Thank you! Thank you so much!" the woman cried, tears running like rivers down her red cheeks, as she held her baby to her chest. "I was so scared! I turned around and he was just gone! The buckle on his stroller broke and he took off! You naughty boy! You really shouldn't wonder off like that! You scared mommy to death and back!"
"Yes, thank you," the man said while trying to hold on to two of the kids in his arms, they were about three and five years of age. Two of the older kids, twin boys around eight years old wearing glasses, suddenly grabbed onto Law's legs.
Neo bit her bottom lip, to try and keep from smiling, when Law glared down at the boys touching him.
"Look at his pants! They have spots on them! They're cool!" the twins exclaimed with laughter. "I want a pair! Make that two pairs! He looks like a seal!"
"Boys! Release him at once!" the father reprimanded.
The boys pouted but did as they were told. "Okay."
"They can have the pants. I'll take the guy who's wearing them," the teenage girl purred.
Neo glared at the young girl when she batted her young yet long eyelashes at her husband. A low rumble of thunder released above them, causing the adults, but for her and Law, to look up at the darkening sky as the wind picked up. She wrapped her arms Law's arm, pulling him away from the girl's attempt of touching him. She did her best not to hiss at the child, she didn't know any better after all. She said, "Sorry, but he's mine."
'Easy, Neo.' Law thought to her. 'She's just a kid.'
The girl frowned when she looked at Neo.
"Melina, leave him alone," her father snapped. "He's way too old for you. Get over here at once."
Neo released her stalled fury. The dark clouds rolled away while the wind died back down when the girl walked back over to her dad.
"That was odd. It seemed like it was going to storm just now," the mother said before turning back to her family.
"It was. Well, thanks again for your help. Sorry about the trouble," the female security guard said to the pirates. "Would you like a lift to somewhere?"
"Or you could come home with me," the teenage girl offered while smiling at Law.
"No thanks. We can walk," Law said. His voice almost panicked when the girl spoke to him again. With Neo's arms still around his, they took off before she could release another brewing storm. "You didn't have to get jealous like that."
"I know. I just can't help it," Neo said. "But at least I didn't release my crystals on her. And I have to admit this will make a funny story to tell the crew."
"Don't you dare even think about telling them what happened here," Law said.
"Why not?" Neo poked him in the ribs. "You look so cute holding onto a baby. It was even cuter when he didn't like how your hat tasted."
"Very funny," Law said, pulling her closer to his body.
"I'm still telling, Neo said.
…
"Oh, what a day," Neo said upon entering the hotel later that night. "I think that is the farthest we have ever walked before. My feet are killing me."
"We were all over that park today," Law said, his arm draped over her shoulders while her fingers laced lazily through his.
"I want a foot massage," Neo all but whined. "And these shoes need to be burned with extreme fiery prejudice."
"Yes on the foot massage. Absolutely no on the burning your sandals," Law said.
"So unfair," Neo said, leaning into him. "Shoes are my most despised enemy. You should be more than glad to get rid all of them for me."
Law chuckled and shook his head. She was truthful. Shoes were her most despised enemy. An enemy she would gladly eliminate off the planet if he would let her.
"Excuse me! Mr. Trafalgar!"
"Hm?" Law and Neo turned to the woman calling his name.
"You have a package," an older woman in her early forties said from behind the check in counter with a basket.
"Why would we have a package?" Neo asked as they walked over to claim it. She saw a little note suck on top of the cover and pluck it out. Looking at it she found it was from her favorite blonde haired cook. "It's from Sanji."
Neo, my darling! And Law,
I bought you a special little gift for your honeymoon! Enjoy it at your leisure! And, Law, don't you dare be too hard on her while making sweet love! If you hurt her or your baby I'll kill you!
Sincerely yours,
Sanji
Law grumbled at being told what to do. It's not like he didn't know that already.
"He bought us a gift?" Neo pulled back the cover on the basket to reveal some strawberries, liquid chocolate, and some hot body oil. "Why would he give us this stuff? It's just strawberries and…oh…" Her cheeks flushed red upon realizing what Sanji was intending for them to do.
Law smiled when the lady behind the desk giggled. She said, "She's so innocent. It's cute."
"We should head to our room now," Law said as casually as he could.
"Have fun you two!" the lady said as they walked off.
"Well, uh, these strawberries look really fresh," Neo said, gazing into the basket. "Since Sanji sent this over, I'm sure they are."
"Well, wait for a little while before tasting them," Law said, leading her down the hall to their door. Once they reached it, he unlocked it and they entered.
"Oh," Neo said, disappointed. "Okay."
"We'll get to those in a little while," Law said before nipping her neck. "But first we need to take a shower."
"Oh! Yeah!" Neo chirped. "I almost forgot about that!"
"Then let's get to it," Law said, taking the basket from her. He placed it down on the nightstand by the bed then lead her to the bathroom. He warped them out of their clothes, receiving a pointed look from Neo. "Trust me, love. You'll want to get this shower over as quickly as possible."
"I doubt that," Neo said as he turned on the water.
"I know you will," Law said, stepping under the water. He held out his hand for her.
Sighing, she placed her hand in his, allowing him to pull her under the water with him. At a medium speed, the two washed the day off from each other. Law lingering a bit to satisfy her desire to be in the water with him while she ran her hands over his slick skin, stealing kisses from his lips and placing kisses all over his body while curling her fingers around him. Stepping out of the shower together, Law grabbed a towel and wrapped her up in it, taking a kiss from her before wrapping a towel around his own hips and leading her out to the bed. She summoned her fire and wind crystals to dry their hair for them as they went.
"We're not going to get dressed?" Neo asked as Law tugged off her towel and guided her down onto the bed. She banished her crystals.
"Like you want to get dress," Law said, smirking at her.
Neo shifted awkwardly on the bed, her cheeks flushing once again.
"Why so shy all of a sudden?" Law said, pulling the chocolate out of the basket. "You weren't this way when we were in the shower or last night."
"I don't know," Neo admitted. "I guess because Sanji suggested this. I kind of feel like he's here now."
"Well, he's not," Law said, drizzling the chocolate over her expose skin. Reaching into the basket, he pulled out a plump strawberry then trailed it along the chocolate on her stomach before bring it up to her lips. "Taste it."
Neo sunk her teeth into it. Juices poured over her teeth and onto her tongue. The sweet juices making her mouth water as she hummed in enjoyment. "It's so good."
"And the best is yet to come." Law leaned down. Slowly licking the chocolate off the inside of her thigh.
"Oh! Law!" Neo exclaimed.
…
Apple Bloom: No worries. I know weather has messed me up before from posting and doing other internet related things.