7th one-shot:
Breakup and Aftermath
A/N: I guess this could be considered as an alternate universe of modern au, right? The world establishment is different. You could think of it as many islands around the world, the rest being only ocean, much like One Piece's world set-up. The difference is, those islands are joined by bridges.
I hope it's not too complicated!
A/N again: This is a repost of my story!! First posted in my "One Piece Various One-shots" book, this is of course another MarAce one-shot. Since this book contains all my MarAce one-shots, I wanted to post this here too. Enjoy!!
Synopsis:
What happens when their trust melts, just a little? And what happens, when two broken hearts meet again?
Word count: 8556-ish
Enjoy reading!!
XXX
He never thought that he would meet him again. And if yes, then not like this. Definitely not when he's on edge of dying on him. Feeling the guilt of losing someone without being able to say sorry.. But, if he's lucky enough, things would turn out to be better. Hopefully.
For Marco Newgate, that day was a day of nightmare. A dream he has long ago given up on, which now turned into a nightmare. Being a doctor, a well-known and one of the bests, Marco was as always staying on night shift that day too. But, it wasn't as quiet at night like it has started as the day.
There had been a chain car accident on one of the many bridges that joined other islands to the one he lived on. Many of the islands around actually belonged to his family, as there were 'claimed' islands. They were mostly ruled by powerful names, and his father being one, they had islands under their watch. Though, his father- Edward Newgate did many of the work, he too had some responsibility on the islands. And one of them was to make sure the people are healthy.
That being said, the chain car accident was bad. Very bad. There were a total of 18 cars damaged, 6 or 7 of them in a bad shape, one seems to be completely crushed. A total of 37 injured, a lot of them in fatal case, and 9 deaths. The two islands that the bridge joined were working together on the accident. Both the islands' hospitals were full.
Anygays. With that situation, Marco and the other doctors were sure that they wouldn't be leaving at any time soon. The hospitals were full with these cases. In his island, there were only two hospitals. The other island was small, so only one hospital was there. And that hospital wasn't as prestigious as the one Marco worked at. They were the most busy one out of three. The hospital was a mess, a big one. The doctors and nurses running around in the emergency and operation halls. All of the operation rooms were occupied.
Marco was in mid-operation when another patient was wheeled inside on the hospital bed, on life support. Marco is a very talented surgeon, and he already has finished three operations, working on the fourth and the fifht has arrived for him. He was the most busy out of every doctors in the hospital, and the fatal injuries were mostly given to him. He had another acquaintance who received fatal injuries mostly too, a very young but yet so talented surgeon, Dr. Trafalgar Law. The young surgeon has acquired a lot of trust and respect by people in his career, and even Marco respected him.
"Dr. Newgate," Called one of the nurses that were aiding the fifth patient. Marco nodded, and stayed silent while continuing the surgery. Nurses have understood long ago that it meant they were okay to continue their word. Marco was just very focused on his work to talk to them, but was listening.
"The fifth patient has arrived." She came closer to take a loot at the surgery going on right now, and helped the others with clearing out blood and giving/taking medical equipments from the doctor. Giving a little more focus on the talk, also because he wanted to know the 5th patient's situation, he asked what was wrong with them. Nurse Tate nodded and started listing the injuries.
"A very bad head injury. Broken ribs, in bad shape. The ribs most likely has affected his lungs, the patient is having trouble breathing. Internal bleeding. His heart beating isn't stable. His right leg seems to be broken. And he has one arm crushed as well," She said blankly. They were used to these kind of cases, even though it didn't occur frequently. Marco nodded, now back to being focused on the surgery. It was almost done by this time, and Marco was stitching the wound up. Once the work was done, he let his co-surgeons and nurses complete it without him. They didn't need him when the surgery was over. It went smooth, thankfully.
Going over to the fifth patient of that night, he couldn't help but freeze on his way. Although the injured patient was covered in blood and cuts, was on life support and a ventilator machine was helping him breath, he could tell who the patient was. It was the worst thing to do surgery on someone you know as a surgeon, but this? This was way more different and difficult for Marco. He had done surgeries on some of his many brothers, those who were complete idiots. But the man in front of him was no brother of his. No friend of his. He..
"Ace.." Marco whispered out, but immediately shook his head to focus on the situation. His feelings weren't important right now. Wouldn't be. He is a surgeon, and whoever his patient was, it is his job to help them. It doesn't matter that his fifth patient is.. his ex. His ex that he himself broke up with. His ex that he has wished to see even after a year and three months. But.. he has given up months ago wishing and yearning to see Ace. He knew the latter wouldn't let Marco in again. But, he also knew it was his fault that he broke up with Ace. Not Ace's fault. Never.
Their breakup happened over a year ago. At that time, Marco and Ace have been going out for almost two years, and Marco was preparing for their two year anniversary. They have gotten used to each other rather quickly, despite Ace's low self-esteem and untrust to others. And surprisingly enough for those who knew Ace very well, including Marco, Ace would often stay with him at Marco's house. Ace lived in an apartment house, a little 21 apartment. But he was happy with it. Marco lived in a nice house that has it's little garden. It wasn't all fancy, but still fancy. Marco also helped Ace with his rents, knowing he couldn't work all the time because of his narcolepsy. He didn't have any problems helping with rent, Marco's salary was more than enough for the two.
The breakup's main cause was a shitty person that made Marco believe Ace cheated on him. How could Marco be so stupid?! Over all the time they spent together, didn't he learn that Ace loved him, and only him?! Ace loved him so much that he opened up his everything to Marco. Things not even his brother, Luffy knew. Things not even his best friend, Deuce knew. And Marco knew, still knows those things. Only after two months he learned that it was all a lie to make Marco breakup with Ace. And Marco fell right into the trap. He broke Ace's heart, and he did that after promising not to. He messed everything up.. But, when he went to look for Ace after learning it was a trap, Ace was no longer in the city anymore.
Marco went to Ace's apartment, only to find out that he has sold his apartment and no one knew where he went. Though, Marco had two guesses. First guess, he went back to Luffy, but he didn't rely on that because Luffy was living with his boyfriend, who was also Marco's friend from work, Law. And their house was close to the hospital Marco and Law worked at, so he didn't think Ace would want to stay there only to have the big chance to see the one who broke his heart, never gave him any chances to explain himself or anything. It still hurt Marco, and will always hurt to think about that.
The second guess was mostly to happen, which was to leave the city and move to another one. Maybe he even left the island. But, would he be okay living alone, and paying rent on his own with his narcolepsy? Marco knew it would get bad and bad if he didn't look after himself. After a few days, he had the courage to talk with Luffy about.. this. He had asked Law to help him talk with Luffy. Law first objected, but then accepted to help him seeing how sincere he was. So, he went with Law to their house, to talk with Luffy. Luffy was hesitant at first, didn't want to talk with Marco but soon gave up and told Marco whatever he can.
"You hurt Ace so much, Marco. I'm still mad about it. Ace moved islands because of you. He doesn't want to see you, no matter whatever your intention is." Luffy had told him, and firmly said to not try and find Ace. No matter what. His big brother was trying to forget the past and move on, starting a new life. Luffy of course didn't want Marco to ruin it. Marco did try to find him, but not for talking to him. He didn't even know what to tell Ace or how to apologize. He only wanted to know if Ace was okay or not, that's why he continued searching.
But, he hesitantly gave up a few months ago on searching, knowing no one would be happy about it. Not Ace, not Luffy, not Law, not Marco himself and not even Marco's family. They knew very well that Marco was the one to break up with Ace and not believe him. Some were still upset about it, but Marco can't go back in time to prevent that from happening and punch his past self, even if he wished and dreamed to do that. Though, they were more mad and upset at the one who made Marco believe his shit.
Back to today, Marco hurriedly started Ace's surgery. They had a lot to do. Ac- The patient's situation was very bad. Heavily injured. The ribs have surely damaged his lungs, the breathing and heart beats are uneven. He hated to admit it, but there was a low chance that Ace would make it out. But with utter care and determination, Marco was going to help Ace live along. He would never let him go without fighting.
"Which car was he in?" Marco asked, to understand what has caused this and maybe do better operation. The nurses and his co-surgeons gathered around him, instantly and without any problem moving onto this surgery. Nurse Tate, who was given the task to observe and tell everything that happened to the patients that were going on surgery answered Marco's questions.
The nurses and doctors have of course all seen Marco's face go pale and come back not even a second after. Some that were close by heard him whisper the patient's name, causing them to guess he knew who the patient was. But, they knew that he wouldn't lose focus just because he knew who the injured man was, they know that Marco has done many surgeries on people he had known and knew well of, example being his brothers. So, they didn't think on it and moved on to the surgery instead, as they should.
"He was inside the car that was crushed, left in between two bigger cars. It's honestly a miracle he's still alive until this time," The nurse said, and watched as Marco's face expression went into one of worry behind the hospital mask, but it quickly went away. With his best, and all his determination, he said,
"That's why he's here, Mrs. Tate. The miracle means that he needs to live. It's our job to save him. Get to work, everyone." Saying that finally, firmly, he continued and told other doctors what to do first. They strated working out with the ribs first, making sure to not furtherly damage the lungs. His lungs.. they were bad news. Luckily, they worked on them without any obstacles occuring.
That surgery was the longest, taking up 4 and a half hours of work. It was the worst case of that accident, counting out the unfortunate deaths. And Marco wasn't happy that it happened to his beloved Ace. But, fate is fate. Even if he didn't want it to be this way, the accident has made Marco meet with Ace.
Knowing his only family, who was his little brother Luffy, he called him to let him know of Ace's situation once the surgery was over and Ace was brought to the recovery room. Luffy broke into crying, saying he was on his way. Marco also didn't waste time on telling Law his lover would be coming, and the reason. Law panicked, even though he was known to not panick even in most worrisome cases to others. He only panicked when it was a life-death situation that involved his loved ones. He asked if Ace was okay, and how Marco himself was going through that. Marco looked like a man that has been working all day, which he really was working all day. He had five surgeries, one after another, that went for like, 8-9 hours. It was already 8 in the morning, and the next day's work shift had begun. Marco was given permission to leave, while many others including Law would stay.
But, Marco asked for another thing that shocked their medical director. He asked to be by one of his patients he had done surgery on, saying it was personal reasons he would try and tell later. The director agreed, knowing well that Marco wouldn't ruin any hospital rules.
Ace was still on life support, even if the surgery was a success. He wasn't sure when Ace would wake up, knowing it would take a while and self will to continue living at this point. But, he never stopped telling himself that 'Ace will live', or that 'He's stronger than you, Marco, you know it' He never stopped feeling hope, nor he stopped feeling guilt at the same time. If.. if he didn't believe that trap, this wouldn't have happened, right? Ace wouldn't come here on that bridge, because he would be still living here. Happy and smiling.
Marco felt so bad that this happened partly because of him. He couldn't stop the feeling, no matter what. God, he didn't even know if Ace was really going to wake up or not! How could he live if Ace didn't wake up at all? If he didn't have the chance to apologize? If he was the reason of Ace's death? Marco would probably die too..
Going towards the hall that contained the hospital's recovery rooms, Marco saw Luffy asleep on one of the many couches on that hall. He looked.. like a zombie. Living dead. He felt bad for the boy, to see his big brother like that must have broken him. Sighing, he went to look through the little glass window on the door opening to Ace's room. Ace was stable, but wouldn't wake up for a long time. Still had the ventilator on, his lungs couldn't work well after the impact broke his ribs that tore through his lungs. Ace would still be able to love with those lungs, but if it were to get worse, they would need a donor. Sighing, again, he slowly opened the door to go in. But was stopped by his friend's voice.
"You know that the hospital won't allow you to see him after learning, right?" The voice belonged to Law, a surgeon just like him, who was Luffy's boyfriend. He knew about everything happened between Marco and Ace.
"I will talk with our director about it later. I have permission for now.. If needed, I can talk with CEO. Hell, I'll even talk with Pops. I won't leave Ace alone. Never again." Marco answered with all his determination, never caring about the phrases he used. Law knew he didn't care right now, if he was going to use his father's powers. Marco was known to never use his father's powers if it wasn't needed. And never once he talked about him in his career life. This was the first..
"Keep calm, Marco-san. I won't reassure you with Ace's wellness, we both know as doctors that it's not right. But please do believe he'll wake up eventually. Even if he takes his time." Law said with a smile on his face. A rare one. A smile that only his close friends, family and of course Luffy recieved. Marco smiled back and nodded before Law patted his back and went to his boyfriend. Marco went into the room after, closing it behind and also pulling the curtain on the glass window to make sure no one could peek inside.
With shaky legs, Marco went to sit by Ace's side. He held Ace's hand in his own, feeling just how cold his heavenly warm hand has gone. Seeing how sick he looked. He felt disgusted when he saw the ventilator go down his mouth, when normally he would have never been uncomfortable by anything like this. He's a doctor, a surgeon. But he's a human too. He still has feelings. With tears in his eyes, he brokenly smiled at Ace. After months, more than a year, he could once again stare at Ace. Count his freckles one by one. Adore him, love him, feel his warmne-. But he can't feel anything warm right now. He can't adore Ace's this state. Not when he's living with life support.
"I'm sorry, love.. I'm so sorry.." He shakily said, tears leaving his eyes, down his cheek.
"You could have been happy. So happy, Ace. But I ruined it all, didn't I?" He let out a broken laugh, looking at Ace.
"I believed a lie over you. Aren't I the biggest jerk, Ace? Letting you down after promising to not. I.. I'm s-sorry, Ace.. Plea-se, please live on. Don't die on me, not when I found you again. I want to see you smile, laugh, love and be loved again. I want to feel your warmth, I want to be by your side forever. B-but.. I can't." He was crying now, letting out everything he has been keeping for the past year.
He fell asleep there, his head on Ace's body and his hand keeping Ace's hand warm. When the nurses went inside to check on Ace with Law, they were shocked by what they saw. Marco's face was still wet from crying. Law sighed, and went to wake him up. He carefully shook Marco, instantly waking him.
"Law? Did I fall asleep?" Marco asked as he sat back on his chair, hand in his hair. Law nodded, feeling bad for him.
"Me and the nurses need to check on him, Marco-san." He said, and turned to the nurses with a stern look on. "I do not want any of these going out of this room." The nurses hurriedly nodded, not even once thinking about telling this to anyone. They knew how bad hospital rumors could be, and it could end up being bad for Marco's career. They all adored him, so they didn't want him in a bad situation. But, they couldn't stop thinking what this was about..
"Thanks, Law. I'll leave now. What time is it?" Marco asked, taking his doctor cloths.
"It's afternoon. Luffy is outside sleeping, don't wake him up." Law said. Marco nodded and left the room with a last sad glance to Ace. The nurses bombarded Law with questions to what that was, only to get pushed back with Law saying it's none of their business and it's private.
Going out, Marco saw Luffy asleep on the couches. He looked like a total mess.. But, who wouldn't be? His big brother is on life support, and God knows when he'll wake up.. or is he even going to wake up. Sighing, he left, not waking up Luffy just like Law told him. He didn't want to go home.. maybe work some little more? Work is all he can do in a situation like this.
XXX
Two weeks have passed after Ace's surgery. Two weeks of guilt. Two weeks of grief. Two weeks of waiting. Marco was no better. And honestly he was getting worse and worse. Everyone has noticed this now, Marco was a broken man. He even got the courage to search Ace's health history. He had the permission to search and read about anyone he wanted, given by his father. It was.. a mess. Disaster for Marco. Ace has been frequently getting injuries because of his narcolepsy. And because he couldn't work at all, after his health got worse, he had bills to pay. Ones that were in thousands. How could Marco actually forget about this? Something so serious? Something that could kill Ace without Marco or anyone else knowing. His heart broke into pieces and it won't heal anytime soon. Maybe never.
His father and brothers forced Marco to take a break from working all day long, and now he was in his house, sitting on his bed not knowing what the fuck to do. He felt empty, if ignoring the still-growing grief in him. Sighing, Marco got up and went to the kitchen to distract himself with cooking. One of his brothers, Thatch was a cook and did gave a lot of them lessons about cooking, including Marco. He found cooking as a distraction from all the problems. So he often cooked when he was upset and couldn't work.
Just as he was starting to collect the ingredients for making a simple pineapple cake, his phone started ringing. He lazily went to pick it up but instantly jumped in his place when he saw it was from the hospital. Did something happen? To Ace??? Or maybe it was just to call Marco to work? But, his father made sure no one would call him unless necessary.. He sighed, and answered the phone.
"Newgate speaking."
"Dr. Newgate. We have an update on your patient, your father has asked us to inform you of any changes on.. Portgas D Ace." Marco recognized the voice, it was the reception lady. He felt his skin go pale as he heard this was about Ace. Hesitantly, he asked what has happened and if something was wrong.
"No, actually. The patient is showing signs of waking up, fortunately. You can come and see him anytime you want, the director said there wouldn't be any problems about this if it's you, Dr. Newgate." Marco let out a relaxed sigh, and his lips turned into a smile. Ace would wake up! He will finally wake up!
"Thank you for informing me. I'll be there as soon as possible." Marco said, and hung up. Still a smile on, he decided to call his father to tell him about this. He was the one to let Marco get updated on Ace, so Marco was also going to thank him. Not long after his call started, his father answered.
"Son, how ar- ~Marco!" He heard his father, and then his always-energetic cook brother, Thatch. Chuckling, he greeted both of them and whoever else was there with them. It seems many of his brothers were with their father at the moment.
"Gurarara! Your brothers are quite a handful, son. When will you visit? We miss you," His father said with soothing tone, and just by his tone, Marco could imagine hisfather with a smile on and his brothers around him on his big, round table. He smiled warmly at the imagine in his head.
"Sorry, Pops. I haven't been visiting all of you properly.. It's just.. well, you know the situation. But, I wanted to thank you for telling the hospital to inform me if anything happened. They called not long ago, telling Ace was showing signs of waking up.." Marco replied, tears forming in his eyes. But he quickly wiped them and got up to go to his room to get ready.
"Anytime, Marco. I'm happy that Ace is waking up. He did take his time. Are you going to the hospital?" His father asked on the other end of phone, sounding happy for his son. Marco also heard some cheers from his brothers, making him smile even wider.
"Yeah, I'll be leaving in 5 minutes." He was almost ready, always known to get ready quickly.
"I see. Go and see him, Marco." Smiling, Marco agreed and they hung up the phone. Marco left the house and hurriedly went to the hospital. Ace was going to wake up. Marco was sure. İf he was showing the signs of waking up, it would be soon that he does wake up. He wanted to be by Ace's side when he woke up.. He wanted to hold his hands, hug him, be by his side. He wanted to hold on to him tightly and never let go. But.. would Ace accept him? After what he did to Ace? Marco could only hope.
XXX
It was two days later, that Marco was back to the work. But the director insisted on giving him less work. You could say this was favorism.. So, he had done all his works and was with Ace. Luffy had left not long ago, saying he had to go to work. He works in a daycare, a work that pretty much suits him. Luffy is a genuinely kind and happy person, so he's much suited for this job. After Luffy left, three of Marco's brothers came- Thatch, Haruta and Izo. Those who were closer with Ace. They all smiled a sad smile, and talked with Ace.
"I hope everything goes well, really.." Izo said sadly, glancing at Ace. He really liked Ace, given that Ace was a kind and loving person once you get past his wall. He wasn't a people's person to most others, not at all as he had trouble getting to know one at first. But when Ace got comfortable enough with them, they saw who he truly was. Sociable, kind, loving, caring, trusting..
"Yeah.. I really love him as a friend, and my brother's lover. Y'know, Marco? He really makes you smile more. Like, you have been smiling more just by knowing he would wake up." Thatch happily stated, making Marco blush. Ace always made Marco blush. It made them chuckle, they always know of Marco to be expressionless -more like always bored-, and now he was blushing like a highschool girl in love! They found it funny and cute.
"Alright, tomato-kun, we understand, you love Ace." Izo teased, immediately recieving an angry punch to his arm by his fellow brother. He loved teasing Marco like this, he always got either a good beating or expressions that were worth it. The brothers were joking, laughing and talking with each other about things Ace and Marco did, mostly teasing Marco with it.
Instantly, all of them stopped and their heads jerked towards Ace, as they heard a low, but audible groan. They saw Ace's fingers moving, but he didn't open his eyes. Maybe he was awake but couldn't?
"A-Ace? Can you hear me?" Marco asked, sitting up from his chair and leaning closer to Ace. He hastily got up and called some nurses with a button in the room, and gathered some equipments to check on Ace. The brothers gave him and the now inside nurses space so they could examine Ace. They all watched with concerned eyes, but then felt relief hit in as they saw Marco grinning up to them with relieved eyes. Ace was okay, and most importantly- He's going to wake up! The nurses left seeing there was no problem, also trusting Marco being there, so all four of them gathered around Ace again, eager for him to wake up.
XXX
Opening his eyes, Ace felt heavy and hurt. Everything hurt, it seems. What is happening? And.. Who in heavens is in front of him? His blurry vision finally clearing, Ace saw who was in front of him. It was Marco. And Izo. Oh, Thatch and Haruta, too. He watched with wide shocked eyes as they greeted him with true happiness and relief, on edge of crying. Actually, cross that, they were all crying.
"Wh..wha's happ'n?" Ace asked, or tried to ask. He felt like the voice didn't belong to him. His voice was hoarse and cracked from sleeping for so long. Well, not that long, it has almost been a months, but still.. And, why are these four here? Didn't they.. leave him alone on his own?
"You are okay." Marco said, smiling through tears. It was more of a statement than a question, more like confirmation for himself. Ace stared blankly at four of them, eyes darting from one to another for a good two minutes.
"Why..? Why are you here?" Ace asked, looking at all of them and lastly Marco. He never let his eyes leave his. He saw sadness, relief, happiness and concern in Marco. It truly confused him, but all he could ask was, why?
"We were waiting for you to wake up, dear." Izo answered with a smile, wiping his tears away. The other three nodded in agreement, and all sat down, giving Ace time and space to think.
"M.. Marco?" Ace asked, turning his head to Marco. The latter looked down in shame, a sigh leaving his lips.
"I'm sorry, Ace. I was stupid. I understand what I did wrong, I promise. And.. I'll leave if you don't want me to stay. I can understand why." He said sadly, not looking up to see Ace's reaction. His eyes widened when he heard Marco's words- didn't he leave Ace?! Why would he come back? What was the intention in this? First, he makes Ace feel like shit and now dares to come back?!
"But, Marco.. aren't I.. not good e-enough?" Marco felt his heart sink at the question. He made Ace feel like this. Feel like.. like he wasn't worth it. Silently, Marco shook his head and looked up at Ace. With a warm smile hiding his sadness behind he said,
"No, Ace. Never. You make me the happiest. Why are you saying that you're not good enough? You're more than enough. I promise you that. I was a jerk for listening to that bastard. I should've let you explain.. I should've listened, but I didn't. I'm really so-" Marco's words were cut off when he saw Ace crying silently. His eyes widened, and immediately he reached out to dry his tears, but they kept coming and coming until Ace showed Marco's hand away. With tears still in his eyes, he looked at Marco brokenly. The two actually forgot about the other presences in the room watching them silently, giving them time to make everything up.
"You p-promised.. you b-broke our promise, Marco! How can I believe you again?" Ace cried out, but it triggered his narcolepsy attack, and he was sleeping the next second. Marco stared dumbfoundedly, then tiredly sighed. He felt Izo's hand on his shoulder, and shook his head.
"Give him time, Mar. It'll eventually work out." Thatch motivated him, though it didn't really work. He should've known Ace would react like this, but honestly, he couldn't blame him. He could only blame himself..
Marco got up and called some nurses over, started giving them instructions on how to act around Ace. He was really cautious about everything, actually. So he didn't want him to be worried by nurses, too. Ace didn't seem to mind anything more than Marco and his family being with him in here, and maybe he didn't even realize. So, Marco was sure that once he woke up, it would all hit him like a train. And, they kinda needed to prepare for mental help, if needed. He knew Luffy would be by Ace's side and help him, but.. how would Ace react to Marco being by his side? He didn't know.
XXX
Well! It turns out to be just as Marco feared. Ace doesn't trust him anymore, and is kinda avoiding him. He asked Law to ask Marco to stop coming in the third week of his healing and it had been maybe a month after that happened. He was going to be let out soon, after all his tests were positive and no serious problem would be left other than his crushed arm that might have a chance to never properly work, and a broken leg which would heal over time with also rehabilitation.
Marco tried to get to Ace all the time, failing miserably. He was so lost in depression after Ace -well, Law actually- asked him to stop visiting. At one point, he asked his director for a longer break, which the director agreed on and said he was planning to give Marco one if he hadn't asked. The director already knew of the situation, but said there wouldn't be any problem because who Marco was, and how good of a surgeon he was. Marco was on a break right now, but from time to time he would go to the hospital to talk with either Luffy of Law. Law was the doctor that was responsible of Ace, with begs of Luffy and some poking from Marco. Luffy was upset that Ace didn't talk with Marco, but he couldn't blame him for it. Marco did make everything 10 times worse than it already was for his brother.
It was another day off for Marco, and another day to 'visit' Ace. He was just going to talk with Law and Luffy as always, he knew Ace wouldn't want to see him for a long while. Maybe forever. But, that hurt too much to think about it so Marco chose to forget that opinion. Marco was walking towards Ace's room, greeting nurses and doctors on the way there. He saw that no one was outside, and peering through the little window on door, there was no one in the room besides Ace. Luffy was probably working, it was Monday. And on mondays Law's schedule would most likely be full. He contemplated for two minutes whether to go in or not, and just as he was about to leave he saw Law in front of him.
"Good morning, Law. How's Ace doing?" Marco asked instantly, recieving Law's rare, calming smile.
"Morning, Marco-san. He's doing very well, recovering quickly. Though, I can't say the same thing about his.. feelings." Marco frowned at that, but nodded happily knowing Ace's recovery isn't slow or has any problems. He saw Law eyeing him suspiciously, and raising his eyebrow, he asked if something happened or not. Law shook his head and looked hesitant before answering truthfully.
"The thing is, the other day.. When Lu and I were talking with Ace, it somehow ended up with your mention. Ace said that he was actually thinking of having a talk with you, just because he saw how sincere you were." Law watched as Marco's eyes widen in new hope and shock. He grinned widely, making Law chuckle.
"He actually wants to talk with me?!" He asked in disbelief, needing a confirmation. Law nodded, and told him to wait as he went in Ace's room with a knock. Marco waited eagerly, and in just a few minutes Law came out of the room and signalled him to go in. Marco let out a shaky breath as he walked over, Law nodding to him with a smile to reassure him. He gently knocked on the door, and went in.
Inside, Ace was sitting slightly up in the hospital bed. He still had multiple IVs connected to him, giving him needed nutritions. When he met Ace's eyes, he smiled but Ace looked away. With a quick frown he went and sat on the chair by Ace's side. There was a long awkward moment before Ace broke the quiet.
"I guess I could hear your side of story." He said coldly, and Marco simply perked up to that. He nodded, and explained.
"I don't really have an excuse for myself, Ace. And I'm so, so sorry for that. I was simply stupid. So arrogant that I didn't believe you.." Marco sighed, putting his head into his hands and groaning into his palms. He stayed like that for a while, still explaining himself.
"I should've never listened to that jerk, but, I was a jerk myself to you. I actually wanted to believe you, but.. Teach is my brother. How was I going to pick between my brother and the love of my life?" He asked half to himself, just barely seeing the sympathetic look on Ace's face. Ace has always been like this. Never thought of himself, just others.
"Teach told you that I cheated on you?" Ace asked to confirm what he understood. Marco simply nodded, finally letting his hands go down from his face. He looked up at Ace with teary eyes, and then down again.
"When I learned that it was all a lie, I kinda went berserk. Pops had to maintain me from actually killing Teach.." He said in a low tone, surprising Ace. "And then I started looking for you. I found that you moved out of the city.. I never gave up on searching. I wasn't going to go to you when I found you, actually. I just wanted to know if you were okay.. I'm sorry for all the problems I've caused, Ace.. If I believed you, y-you wouldn't have had this accident. I'm sorry.." Marco couldn't hold back his tears as he started crying again, his voice cracking as he talked. He stopped sobbing when he felt a hand on his, looking up to see Ace's gentle gaze on him. He suddenly sat up and hugged Ace tightly (but still careful of his injuries), making him flinch at the sudden touch but didn't break the hug. Instead, Ace hugged him back. They both were crying into each other's shoulder now, and it went on for a few minutes. When they broke the hug finally, both had red puffy eyes and wet cheeks from crying all that time's pain they had been putting up with. It felt nice to be by each other again, but they still had complicated feelings.
"M-Marco." Ace called out, instantly catching Marco's attention. "I'm not saying I forgive you. And I'm not saying that we'll get back anytime soon, but.. I still do love you. Can we.. still hang out until we clear our minds and know what to do?" Marco technically beamed at Ace's words, and nodded, all the time having a wide smile and an eager look on. Ace chuckled to see him like this, Marco looked like a little kid eagerly waiting for christmas and presents.
XXX
It has been a few months, things have been getting better and better every day. A few weeks after the talk with Ace and Marco, Ace was let out of the hospital and he lived with Luffy for the time being. He wanted to see if things would still work out with Marco, and if it really did, then he could come back to his home city.
Marco and Ace have been going out from time to time. They would hang out like they used to do years ago. Marco had explained that after the incident, he stopped talking and seeing Teach. Ace never really liked Teach anyway. And Teach stopped getting invited to family gatherings, because of what he'd done to Marco. Which was nice, if Ace ever wanted to go and hang with Newgates again and also because Marco would kill him if he ever saw Teach. Ace loved Marco's family, even though he was partially uncomfortable with a lot of people and Marco's family was big. He loved them, not just because they were Marco's family but also because they were all nice towards him. He most enjoyed Thatch and Pops' company, and yes, he too called Edward 'Pops'. Both Marco and Edward himself wanted Ace to call him like that. Marco and all his family had laughed heartly at Ace when he first called Edward 'Pops' ever so shyly.
Things with Marco have been the best. Marco wasn't pushy much, as he has never been, and gave Ace all the time he needed. Ace appreciated it, and always loved that about Marco. He was never irritated, persistent, angry or pushy with him. Though, Marco was very perverted, but he successfully controlled himself. Ace did enjoy teasing him with it.
They were going to meet up today as well, in a cafe they always went to before break-up happened. It's been quite a long time since Ace came here last.. It was a simple, library-cafe. You could read and drink, enjoy the scenery, work, chat with friends and simply relax there. The decorations weren't fancy, it was all log and most decorations were handmade by the cafe owner and employes themselves. The cafe owner is a close friend of Marco's- Shanks. And Luffy's close friend, too. Ace knew but wasn't really close with Shanks, so he didn't come here often, usually with either Luffy or Marco.
Going in, he saw that the cafe was almost empty. He saw an employee in the cafe, also friend of Marco, Benn Beckman and greeted him. Benn greeted back and welcomed him, instantly showing him where Marco was sitting. He nodded and went to the table. Marco had Shanks by his side, who was laughing at something. When they saw him approaching, Shanks smiled and left, welcoming Ace when he went pass him. Ace nodded and went to sit on the other side of table, eye-to-eye with Marco. They both smiled and quickly got on with each other's day. Marco ordered chocolate cupcakes and coffee, and they both enjoyed each other's presence. The cafe's slight coffee smell, cozy designs and low-toned classic music going on made it a really good place to rest at. The cafe also had some rules, such as to not talk loud, no cigarettes, no outside music, etc. It made the place peaceful and comfortable. Marco often came by here to work, read or simply hang out with his friends in here.
"So.." Ace started another conversation after eating one of his cupcakes, but Marco saw that he was a bit hesitant to continue. So, Marco put on a reassuring smile and looke at Ace. Ace smiled back and continued.
"I was thinking about.. trying again." Marco's eyes widened- trying again? As in..
"You mean.. dating again?" Marco asked to clarify, and Ace nodded in response. They were back in silence as Marco stared in shock. And after a few minutes, he started grinning like a mad man. Ace had to hold back his chuckle when he saw how happy and eager Marco was just by knowing he wanted to try again. Marco got up and went to hug Ace tightly, Ace hugging him back. Feeling his warmness. After so much time, finally!
"Thank you so much, Ace.." Marco said once he broke the hug and leaned in to give a quick kiss on Ace's cheek. He wouldn't push things, no, he wouldn't do any other mistake second time. Marco was going to let Ace adjust again, get out of his shell and do the bigger steps himself- with Marco's help of course.
XXX
Three months have passed since that. Things were better. Ace and Marco were still going on, and they loved each other as always. Marco made it sure so that Ace would know there will never be any case like that one ever again. He made sure thay Ace knew how much Marco loved him. And Ace didn't hold back from showing his love towards Marco, which made him the happiest man in the entire world, as Marco put it.
They, well, Marco wanted to make it official. Meaning, he wanted to propose to Ace. Yes, propose just like he planned to do before they broke up. He was going to re-do the whole plan again, talk with his brothers and close friends and ask for help. It was going to be simple, as both he and Ace didn't like complicated or fancy shit.
He wanted to make it in their favorite place, and also where they first met each other at. It was a park nearby the shore, far away from the city and behind thick forest of their island. There's never many people around that place, never once Marco had seen anyone when he went there. It was also why it's the place he and Ace first met. Although, the meet wasn't the best, as he saw Ace diving in with all his clothes on- to suicide. Marco was the only person there at that time, and he was approaching Ace from behind so Ace didn't see him when he went in the ocean. When he saw this, Marco hurried over and rescued Ace as quickly as possible and saved him just in time. Ace watched him with angry, tired, irritated eyes and shouted at him. When Marco said he saved him, Ace spat back that he was actually going to save himself with death. Everything started that day, when Marco decided to give Ace a handful of reasons to live. And he really did, give him his reasons to live. Along with love.
So, the lonely beach was going to be Marco's propose place. He was going to propose there, and then take Ace to his house to have a nice dinner. For dinner he asked Thatch to make some fancy dish. He asked Izo about his clothing. And he then asked another brother of his- Jozu about which ring would be the best for proposing. They all helped him without any problems. And lastly, he talked with his father about all of it and even if it wasn't needed he asked for permission. Edward laughed at him and told him to go get his husband, which Marco blushed madly at.
It was before dinner time, that he went to get Ace. He told him that they were going to a fancy place, but in all reality they were going to the beach and then to Marco's house. Just, Marco's house was a bit overly decorated with his family's help. He saw Ace coming, and checked him -he couldn't help it, Ace was always handsome-. He was wearing a black, casual sports jacket on a white button-up shirt with black jeans and his favorite belt that had 'A' on it. While Marco himself just suited with a dark purple tuxedo, as it was his favorite and only colored tuxedo. He smiled and waved to Ace, just barely hiding his blush. Ace smiled back and sat on the passenger seat besides Marco.
"Hey, love. Are you ready?" Marco asked as Ace finished seating himself. He nodded and Marco gave him a kiss on the lips before starting the car. When the car reached its destination, the beach, Ace shot Marco a confused glance. Marco smirked and got off the car to go near the shore, with Ace following behind. He stopped at the same spot where he saw Ace, the spot he remembered clearly. Ace came and stopped at his right and they both turned to face each other, Marco smiling all the time with light blush on his face.
"Ace, my love. Do you remember this place?" Ace nodded at Marco's question. Of course he remembered where they met. Marco chuckled. "Although our meet time wasn't the best, I'm happy I met you. You're the best thing to happen to me, Ace. And I really love you."
"I'm happy we met, too, even if we had some not-so-happy days before. I believe in you with my all might and know you won't leave me. I love you, Marc." Ace replied, making Marco blush. Though, Ace was blushing too. It felt like they just started dating with the amount of blushes they gave each other, but both didn't mind it. Marco went forward a few steps, and took Ace's hands.
"I wanted to ask you somethings, Ace. That's why we're here." Ace nodded, and waited for the question but was confused when Marco took a few steps back. His eyes slightly widened when he saw Marco kneel down, and look up at him with a soft smile. Was he going to..?
"Portgas D Ace," Marco started, pulling out the ring case from his pocket and putting it on his palms in front of a shocked and madly blushing Ace.
"Will you marry me?" He asked, opening the case and revealing the diamond ring inside. Ace gasped and stared at Marco. He then broke into a wide grin, and screamed;
"Hell yes! Of course I'll!" Chuckling, Marco shot up and hugged Ace, swinging him around. They both laughed heartly and stared into one another's eyes with so much love, that they felt like crushing under that love. Pulling the ring out, Marco put it on Ace's hand. He pulled Ace closer to him, his hands around Ace's waist. He leaned in and kissed him, Ace happily kissing him back.
After walking around the beach for a while, just chatting and joking with each other, talking about future a little, they went back to the car and Marco drove to his- no, their house. They ate dinner, and spend the rest of the day together, also the other day too. Soon enough, Ace fully moved in Marco's house and sold his own one that was in the other city. Marco helped Ace with his some still healing wounds and narcolepsy, also his bills which Ace was grateful for.
They both were the best couple together. People around them loved their presence, and Ace started to feel less untrust. He actually gained more self-esteem with Marco's help. Marco's family loved Ace, and adored him as a little brother, give the fact that Ace was younger than almost all of them. Thus, Ace and Marco lived together with lots and lots of love and affection..
XXX
The end of,
Breakup and Aftermath.
Thank you for reading! ~
If I finish it earlier, next week I'll post the last idea I have for this book!! Lots of loveee