Hello everyone, here's the next chapter
And thank you everyone for the lovely reviews and comments on last chapter
And we're gonna have a small gap here, where I just loosely sat what happened in between
Hope you enjoy
Read and relax
Marco was starting to get into his own mind and thinking that what happened 3 weeks ago with Ace, when he had scared him, had really screwed things up. Yes, Ace had said it was fine. But the last 3 weeks, he hadn't been able to be with Ace. There was a a lot of reasons behind that, two of which being both of them being busy. Marco needing to do a lot as first mate and first commander, and Ace getting a lot of long assignments. Well, maybe not a lot, but he had gotten long 2 assignments. One had taken 6 days, the other had taken 10 days. And the times between those and after, he had gotten smaller ones and not had the time.
He did probably overthink it and everything, but he knew he had messed up and the fact all these thought was plaguing him on why Ace had been scared, not being able to speak to Ace about it, really was starting to plague him down.
But they were closing in on an island now, a big neutral one and he hoped to spend some time with Ace there, even speaking to Pops about it, him noticing something wrong. Pops had been surprised when he had asked for some time off there to be with Ace and asked why, but Marco had not told the reason. He wasn't sure what to tell and didn't want to say what he might think the reason as to why Ace got scared was. The captain had said it was fine, saying if he needed it or wanted too, that he could tell him anything. Marco had thought about it, wanting to speak about it, but not wanting to out Ace.
But some relaxation on an island, a calm one as they had heard, sounded good.
When they did dock the next day and Marco going out on deck to hopefully find Ace, he was told Ace needed to do some small business on the island, but shouldn't take more than a few hours. Marco had given a sigh as he nodded, he had really hoped to get some time with Ace now. But he would hopefully get to do it later. When he had asked what kind of business if Ace had told, he hadn't said much, but that he was reachable by Dust, who were one the ship. Marco had gotten a comforting smile from Pops, the man saying it would be fine and Ace would be back soon.
He hoped Ace wouldn't get more assignments today and would get to speak to him. Marco really felt like some deity hated him right now and kept him away from Ace.
But after being docked for an hour, they got the news that there were a special person here.
They hadn't found out who, the guy they overheard speaking not wanting to tell in fear of being killed or something by the ones with her. Which made them wonder who this 'her' might be. The island seemed like a really independent one and many was good fighters it seemed like, so they needed to check this out. And when they found out this person was at one of the bars, a really big tavern, many wanted to join, even Pops wanted to join. The ones who left to check this out, aside from Marco himself, was Izou, Thatch, Rakuyo, Namur since they saw other fishmen around, and Blenheim. As well as some other people from different divisions, but they went to drink and not check it out. Probably the reason Pops and Thatch also came too.
As soon as they walked into the tavern, Marco felt his eye twitch at the voice and person he saw.
¨The Whitebeards! Whatcha doing here?!¨ Spoke the most annoying person Marco knew way too excited. Marco gave a sigh, pinching his nose. He heard Pops give a small laugh. ¨Red Hair, why are you here?¨ Asked the captain, taking a seat not too far away from where Shanks, Benn, Rockstar and Yasopp sat. The red haired captain shook his head, ¨I asked first.¨ Pops gave a small laugh, ¨We heard some rumors about a 'her' here and wanted to see who this were. She caught a lot of attention.¨ Shanks gave a laugh, ¨Of course, rumors spread like wildfire. I told her she would be recognised at once.¨ They frowned at the man. Was he the one who was around this woman and scaring people? ¨Who are you talking about?¨ Asked Whitebeard.
Shanks gave a look to them. ¨Gol D Ann of course.¨
Marco blinked, seeing the others doing the same. ¨Gol D Ann? As in Gol D Roger?¨ Asked Whitebeard with a frown. Marco knew Pops didn't like people pretending to be other people, especially doing it for fame, which this person most likely were doing. Benn gave a sigh, using a hand to hit Shanks. ¨You know it's Jackson Ann. Not Gol D Ann.¨ Shanks gave a whine as he pouted at Benn. ¨But that's a boring name!¨ Thatch suddenly got his shocked look. ¨Whoa whoa, Jackson Ann? As in Miss Jackson?! She's Rogers kid?!¨ Marco gave a sigh, sending a look to the chef. ¨She's obviously lying, yoi. The man had one kid, and we know him.¨
Before anyone could say anything else, Shanks gave a chuckle and pointed towards something at the other end of the room. ¨See the woman in the black dress with lacy back and arms, long hair and flawless skin?¨ Everyone looked over to see a group of men speaking to a woman, most likely the one Shanks spoke off.
She had a black formfitting dress with a lacy back and arms, black high heels, showing her body perfect as the dress fit around her body and heels giving a last finish, obviously to get attention. Black hair reaching down half her back, some of it in a makeshift half ponytail. Her face complete flawless and perfect, red eyes and lips, a small touch of eyeshadow on her eyes. She was a beautiful woman. Thatch gave a whistle, ¨She's as beautiful as the rumors say.¨ Marco looked at him, on his way to ask who this Miss Jackson was, but Shanks cut him off with a chuckle again.
¨Now take the clothes away.¨ Everyone gave him a look, a bit surprised and shocked by that. The red haired captain was against all kinds of disgusting behavior like that. Shanks waved a hand to them. ¨Not like that. Switch it out with normal clothes, black usually. And take the heels away.¨ Everyone looked at the woman as Shanks continued, trying to do that. ¨And just take the boobs and curves away, just flat chest and so on. Shorten the hair to above shoulders, change eye color to black, rid of the light make up and add freckles to the flawless face. Who do you see now?¨
Marco could only stare in shock. It was Ace.
Shanks gave a chuckle. ¨Rogers child.¨ Everyone looked back at the red haired captain, Pops speaking first. ¨What is he doing?¨ Shanks gave him a look. ¨She's trying to get information. That's what Ann do.¨ Before they could speak, Thatch let out a breath. ¨I knew Miss Jackson had to be a special person, but Ace!?¨ A small glare from Shanks. ¨Ann. Don't ruin it now.¨ Thatch gave a nod, still shocked. Marco looked over again, seeing Ace, no Ann, giving a laugh as she moved a hand to her hair, playing with it, really looking like she was interested in whatever that man said, really good at acting. Which also made him think if he had acted any around him.
Marco shook his head, not wanting to think too hard about it as he looked at Shanks. ¨Why Ann, yoi?¨ He asked, hoping the red haired got he wondered why Ace was in disguise as a woman. Shanks looked at the woman. ¨Because some people are easier to get information out off as a pretty woman.¨ Everyone nodded, that made sense. Marco looked at Thatch. ¨Who is Miss Jackson, yoi?¨ Thatch gaped at him. ¨How can you not know?! She's known to show up at places, target a person or two, who are never seen again. But people say she's so beautiful that they are enchanted by her looks. She's thought to be a sirene. You know those legends of women luring people to their deaths.¨ The chef looked at Shanks. ¨He-, She kills them?!¨ Shanks made a hushing gesture. ¨Hush, no need to yell it out.¨ Thatch nodded, still shocked.
Marco looked over at the assassin again, wondering how he never had heard about this Miss Jackson. He usually knew about people like that. Thatch would of course know since he was a womaniser, even though he was with Izou. The other male seeming to not really mind him ogling other people or being his usual flirtatious person. But Thatch rarely touched, that was saved for Izou. Marco looked back at Shanks. ¨But why are you here, yoi? Just a terrible coincidence you are the same place as her?¨ The red hair captain gave a chuckle, sending a look at Ace. ¨Nah, just making sure everything goes fine. She likes that someone is just here in case, as Miss Jackson dose not fight and she wants to keep it like that.¨
Marco gave a slow nod, looking back at Ace, feeling weird since Ace had gone to Shanks instead of them. They could help do anything if he asked, even if it was to lure people to their deaths. He felt as Ace didn't trust them, didn't trust him. And it didn't really help that he already was doubting and having issues with feeling he had broken the trust he had built up with Ace. Maybe he really had screwed up.
He looked back at Shanks when the redhead stood up and suddenly walked closer to Ace, getting his attention, or her attention rather. Marco saw as Ace excuse himself from the people talking to the assassin and walked to Shanks, walking perfect in those high heels, a hard thing he had heard. When he was in front of the other, Shanks made her turn around and did something with her hair and said something that made her nod as she turned around. What annoyed Marco even more, was that he also moved hair out of Aces face in a caring manner and Ace not seeming to mind it, even giving a smile.
Marco did feel jealous of Shanks, and that made him irritated. He wanted to be around Ace and do that, but instead of him, it was Shanks. Also sad that Ace didn't come to them, but to Shanks instead and let him help and touch him like that, Marco had barely been able to get a small touch or even rarer a kiss the last 3 weeks. He had probably really messed everything up, and he hated that.
When Shanks came back and sat down, Ace going back to the group, Thatch looked at Shanks. ¨What did you do?¨ Shanks gave a small hum. ¨One of her hair clips showed. And she likes to have her hair perfect like that, so I just fixed it.¨ Marco felt an eye twitch as it seemed like Shanks really knew Ace and had done this a lot, making him even more jealous and annoyed.
When the man looked pleased and like this was a really normal thing, Marco stood up and walked towards the door. ¨I need some air, yoi.¨ He said as he felt the stares from the others, especially Izou and Pops. But he really needed air, at least to get away from the red haired right now as it was making his doubts greater. When he did get out of the tavern, he was glad to see that there weren't many on the outside, making so he could be standing alone and leaning on a small railing overlooking the plaza not far away. When he was leaning on the railing and watching people buss a bit away, he couldn't help to give a sigh.
He really had messed up.
Ace had gone to the other pirate, the red haired captain, instead of them. Most likely asking them to help instead of them. And Marco knew that he, or the others, Pops included, wouldn't mind helping Ace with his assassin work. And Shanks did apparently get to be really close to Ace, which made his heart clench a tiny bit, knowing he had a hard time getting close to Ace the last weeks, since Ace either was on an assignment or just not around him. The thought that Ace might avoid him had now come to light, and he had no idea what to do if that was right, what he should do if he were. Maybe he should just give after and let the assassin be by himself.
Before he could think or fester more over it, another person leaned on the railing next to him.
Marco looked over to see Benn, who took a drag of a cigaret. The other man sent him a look, ¨Heavy thoughts?¨ Marco gave a small sigh, ¨I'm fine, yoi.¨ The man gave a snort, clearly not believing it, but didn't voice it. After a minute, Marco sent Benn a look. ¨Why did Ace ask you to help and not us, yoi?¨ Benn took a drag if his sigarett, ¨He don't want to drag you into his work.¨ Marco gave a small snort. ¨But he have no issues dragging you into it.¨ He could see and feel Benn sending him a look, ¨Do you know how we met Ace?¨ Marco looked at Benn, thinking it was an obvious thing. ¨Through Luffy, yoi.¨ He knew Shanks had save Luffy as a kid, losing his arm and giving away his hat. That was probably how he met Ace too.
He saw Benn shake his head. ¨We met Ace way before that, didn't know they were brothers before almost a year after saving the brat.¨ Marco blinked before looking at Benn. ¨How did you meet him?¨ He couldn't think of a reason on how they might know Ace that had them meet him that early. Benn gave a small laugh, ¨We have always worked some with assassins, but we worked a lot work Azuruko all those years ago.¨ Marco gave a shocked look to Benn, not knowing they had worked a lot with assassins or for that long. ¨That's how you met him, yoi?¨ Benn nodded. ¨Azuruko sent him to us and had Shanks tell him about his father, clearing things up. Shanks just took a liking to him, especially seeing as he always was with Azuruko. Shanks liked him and stick to him and continued to do that.¨
Benn looked at him. ¨We've always known about him and helped him. He don't want to drag you into it, at least not this early and maybe not for a long time. And this was a rushed and unplanned thing.¨
Marco gave a nod, now realising it did gave some sense. He did understand it, but still wished Ace had asked them. Benn took another drag of his smoke, ¨He will maybe ask you later, for easy things, but not right away. Just give it time and say you can help.¨ Marco nodded, he knew it would take time, but he was also a bit on edge from everything happening those weeks ago. He heard Benn give a sigh, ¨Have anything happened? You seem more annoyed than usual.¨ Marco shook his head. ¨It's nothing, just some things.¨ Benn lifted an eyebrow at him. ¨Things that somehow makes you jealous of Shanks?¨ Marco sighed and used a hand to massage his face, not wanting to tell things to Benn, knowing it would get to Shanks.
Benn shook his head. ¨I won't tell Shanks.¨ Marco gave him a look, ¨He's your captain, yoi.¨ Benn gave a nod and looked at him. ¨Even so, I won't tell him everything about Ace or his life that I find out. It's not my place to tell. And I have a feeling you're not just crewmembers.¨ Marco looked at Benn, wondering how he might have come to that conclusion, before shaking his head. ¨It's nothing. We're just,¨ Marco gave a sigh. ¨I don't know, he's been busy.¨ Benn gave a snort. ¨Tell me about it, he's been doing way too many revolutions.¨ Marco blinket. ¨Revolutions, yoi?¨ Benn nodded, ¨Have you heard about Soman and Trivel?¨ Marco gave a nod, having heard about those places having revolutions. ¨Ace did that?¨
Benn nodded. ¨Assignments that are that long, exceeding 4 days, usually are revolutions. Ace is the leader and helps, but stays behind. He gives guidance and teach them how to fight.¨ Marco nodded, ¨Why doesn't he take any of the honor or the credit, yoi?¨ Benn gave a sigh, ¨He doesn't want the honor or credit, he wants to help, nothing more.¨ Marco nodded. Ace really had a good heart, he fought to help so many. Benn took another drag from his smoke and looked at him. ¨I know Ace is busy a lot and not the most open one, but you'll get closer to him with time. He just needs time.¨
Marco nodded, he understood that. He just wished he could have more time with Ace, but he was busy and he thought it might be because of what happened 3 weeks ago. He didn't want to tell Benn about it, but he had a feeling the other man knew that it was something about Ace being secluded and such. Benn took another drag from his smoke and looked at him. ¨Ace is soon finished and he's going to change at once. The hair clips itch and he doesn't like the dress or shoes. And he might need help to take the dress off. I usually help, but you should do it.¨
Marco looked at him, ¨You do it, yoi? Why not Shanks?¨ Not that he would mind, but he was sure Shanks wouldn't pass a chance like that. He always was around the assassin if he had the time and wanted to join on everything. Benn sent him a look. ¨Have you seen his upper body, the back?¨ Marco gave a nod, ¨The scars or the brands, yoi?¨ The way Benn spoke, made him sure he already knew about them. Benn nodded, ¨The brands. Shanks don't know about the last two, and Ace don't want him to find out.¨ Marco nodded. He was sure Shanks knew about them, but that weren't the case. It made him feel better since Ace had showed them to him.
Benn took another drag of the smoke, ¨Don't tell Ace I said this. But he's tired, close to exhausted.¨
Marco looked at the man in small shock and curiosity. ¨How do you know that, yoi?¨ Benn shook his head. ¨I know the signs, which I won't tell.¨ Benn looked at him. ¨I will keep Shanks away, since he usually do this. But when he gets the hair off, he really likes to massage his head, since it's heavy and itchy with the clip on hair. He actually likes people massage or stroke it, and it's a way to be close to him. Just move your hand and do it, it makes him relax and he hopefully will sleep. He needs to sleep soon.¨ Marco nodded. He had not seen any signs of the assassin being tired, but he had a feeling Benn knew what he was talking about, he seemed to know Ace.
Marco sent a small thankful look to Benn. ¨Thank you, Benn.¨ Benn gave a nod. ¨It's nothing. Ace should be happy, and maybe you can help with that.¨ Marco nodded. Marco gave a small sigh as he looked at Benn, thinking he might have an answer to some of his thoughts, but not sure if he should tell. He did seem to care about Ace and knew him well. ¨Ace have gone through much, his scars show that, yoi. But have he gone through more than 'normal' abuse?¨ He hoped Benn would get what he hinted at, the man obviously having seen the scars and he had known Ace for years, much longer than he thought, and probably knew a lot about his work and the kid himself.
Benn stumped his smoke and sent him a look. ¨I think you know the answer to that yourself.¨ Was all he said, before he started to walk to the tavern, stopping after a few steps, sending a look at him over the shoulder, ¨Speak to Ace. He probably won't talk at first, but try.¨
Marco nodded, staying out a bit longer after Benn went inside. He did know the answer himself, or was sure he was on the right track, but he didn't know how right he were and how much Ace had gone through, and he didn't want to get the wrong idea. He would try to bring it up and hope Ace would speak about it. Benn was probably right in saying Ace wouldn't talk about it at first, and he could understand that. And he would take up on what Benn said about helping Ace take the clothes off and massage his head to help him relax. It would be a way to see if Ace was okay with him still, to see if the last few weeks maybe just had been unfortunate in how much time they got together. He would hope for the best.
After some minutes, he went inside the tavern again, a new confidence in himself and that he hadn't royally screwed everything up. He had screwed up, but hopefully not too bad.
When he got inside, he saw that Ace was gone, as well as two of the people that had talked to the assassin. Marco walked back to the table where the rest sat and sat down, getting a look from Pops, ¨Was fresh air good, son?¨ Marco gave a nod, saying it was, before just relaxing and talking to the others, waiting for something to happen. It wasn't long, maybe half an hour, before he heard clacking sounds of heels coming down the stairs. After that, it wasn't long before he saw Ace, or Ann rather, waking down the stars in confident strides. Ace really did look good and it was clear he had dressed up like this before. Ace would have looked stunning as a woman, but he was equally amazing as the male he really were. At least Marco thought so.
When Ace wasn't far away from their table, Shanks looked at him with a look. ¨Should we leave at once?¨ The assassin gave a hum, continuing to walk. ¨Considering the goons over there are going to check where the others are, I should leave. But you can stay.¨ Shanks gave a laugh, ¨We don't need to stay here, we-,¨ The red haired captain was cut off by a small hit from Benn. ¨We need to gather supplies, remember.¨ Shanks gave a whine as he tried to get out of it.
Marco, knowing Benn was going to keep the captain away from Ace, knee what it was and stood up. ¨I think I'll head back to the ship, yoi.¨ He said as he stood up and walked after Ace. He got an affirmative sound from Pops, as well as a smile, clearly having an idea where he was going. Marco also felt his eye twitch as he heard Shanks whining about him leaving and being able to be with Ace, something he couldn't, but was quickly shut up by Benn. When he got outside, he saw Ace walking normally towards the boat. He idly wondered if anyone on the ship would react if Ace came on the boat dressed like that, or if they would just let him walk by. Or how they would react now, seeing as he would walk with the woman.
Marco gave a small chuckle inside himself as he walked up to Ace, thinking of the different reactions he might see. When he was next to Ace, a pair of red eyes looked at him, making Marco lightly chuckle. ¨It's a dangerous world, might as well be sure you make it back, yoi.¨ Ace gave a small laugh, Marco hearing his voice was lighter than usual. ¨How gentlemanly of you, commander.¨ Marco lifted an eyebrow, ¨Commander, yoi? Why not Marco?¨ A pair of amused red eyes looked at him. ¨My, do the phoenix know Miss Jackson that good? That will be a shock to everyone.¨
Marco gave a light chuckle as he looked back at Ace, noting he was almost his height with the heels. He noticed there weren't anyone around and looked at the assassin. ¨How is your voice so light and soft, yoi?¨ He really did sound like a woman, which was weird since he knew who it were. A light chuckle was heard. ¨I just pitch it a bit, to help with the illusion.¨ Marco nodded, ¨It's well done. I didn't even realise it at first.¨ Marco wouldn't admit he had to have Shanks tell. Ace gave a small chuckle again, ¨Done it my times, one get used to it.¨ Marco nodded and sent a look at Ace. ¨And Thatch even know who Miss Jackson is, yoi. He was pretty shocked when he found out the rest.¨
Ace gave a hum. ¨Everyone knows Miss Jackson is a sirene. You get her attention, you will disappear or die. It is pretty close to an assassin, wouldn't you say?¨ Marco gave a small chuckle as he nodded. It did sound like an assassin, but still, one wouldn't automatically assume one were an assassin since people disappeared or died. When they were closing in on the boat, he see Ace sending a small look behind him, before giving a small hum, looking at him.
¨Think you could help me with the dress? The zipper is awful.¨
Marco couldn't help but smile, looking at Ace. ¨Of course I can, yoi.¨ Ace sent him a smile back, and Marco felt glad. This was something, more than the last few weeks. Just easy as this and no big deal. Maybe he really had just over thought things, maybe he had also unconsciously avoided Ace since he thought he wanted space. He really should talk to Ace about this. But not right now, maybe after Ace had relaxed if he had the time.
When they did get to the boat and boarded it, heading towards the assassin's room, Marco saw that the ones who were out, stared at him in shock, some even staring with their jaw hanging. One thing that everyone knew, was that the first commander never brought anyone to the ship, much less a woman like this. He had some conversation with Ace, enjoying how some even got others attention to make sure they also saw the scene of him walking with the woman. The morning would be interesting to say the least. He actually wished Thatch hadn't joined them to the tavern. If he saw this without knowing who the woman were, he'd probably have a heart attack or think the world was ending.
When they did get to Aces room, the assassin gave a small relieved breath as he stepped out of the heels, massaging his feet for a short second, before moving his hair away from his back, showing a zipper there. Marco got the hint and walked up to Ace, slowly opening the zipper to not ruin the thin fabric lace back, feeling the zipper actually was a bit hard. When the zipper was down, Ace gave a thank you as he slipped out of the dress. Marco saw he wore something like a skin colored shirt, the thing also creating the curves. It was a well made one as he hadn't even realised it was an entire fake skin colored shirt under, but it made sense, since if he didn't wear it, the scars and brands would show.
When the clothes was off, Ace took on some pants and a shirt, before walking to a mirror. ¨Could you see if you find a black open bag in the closet?¨ He said as he started to quickly wipe the light makeup off, getting his freckles back. Marco nodded and did that, finding the bag and handing it to Ace, who gave a smile as he started to take the lenses off, placing them in a small case for those. ¨Why red, yoi?¨ Asked Marco, seeing the red lenses. Ace gave a hum as he started to open the clips in his hair. ¨My mom had red eyes, I thought it fit.¨ Marco gave a nod, it did fit, especially with the hairstyle. ¨It's an amazing hairstyle too. The half ponytail was a good choice. It looks amazing.¨ Marco saw Ace give a nod, something flashing in his eyes as he continued to open the clips and take the hair off.
Marco sat down on Aces bed as he took the fake hair off, being careful with it as he put the pieces away. When all the pieces was off, Ace used his hands to drag through his hair, massaging it for a second. Marco looked at Ace. ¨Ace, yoi. Come here.¨ He said as he motioned to the spot next to him. Ace sent him a look, before lifting the bag, placing it in the closet again, and walking over to the bed and sat down next to him.
As soon as Ace was seated and before he could say anything, Marco moved his hand to his head, carefully and slowly threading his hand through his hair, to see the reaction.
Marco had hoped Ace wouldn't mind it and enjoy it, what he actually didn't expect was for Ace to close his eyes, head leaning down a bit so he could do it easier, really seeming to enjoy it. Marco couldn't help a small chuckle as he smiled, moving his hand more through the hair, Ace even letting out a noise of content, like small groan. He never expected Ace go like it this much. He would make sure remember this. When Marco stopped for a second, Ace opened his eyes and blinked a few times, shaking his head. Looking like he was fighting to keep awake. He knew having someone massage or thread a hand through their hair made one sleepy, and according to Benn, Ace was tired.
Marco nonchalantly kicked his shoes off and moved onto the bed, ¨How about to relax a bit, yoi? I'm a bit tired anyway.¨ He was sure Ace would just say no if he asked him to relax and hoped this approach would work. He saw Ace give him a sheepish smile as he nodded and moved to lay down beside Marco, a bit away, but not so far he couldn't reach him with his hand. Marco did move his hand to lay over Aces back, Marco laying on his side and was able to reach over better, and Ace laid on his stomach as usual, and used his hand to thread through his hair again, using his fingers to massage his head. Ace gave a content noise again, eyes almost closing entirely.
After some seconds, Ace gave a small hum. ¨Anything happen today? Or the last week?¨ Marco gave a small noise as he shook his head. ¨No, yoi. It's been calm here. But you've had a lot of work. A lot happening?¨ A small hum from Ace again, who closed his eyes entirely. ¨It's always a bit busy now, and I've helped Daisuke.¨ Marco gave a nod and a small smile, somewhat glad it was busy now since it meant Ace didn't avoid him. And from what he had heard and read, the revolutions had gone by good without much loss.
When he noticed Ace starting to slowly breath with his mouth, Marco carefully moved and dragged the cover over them, before resuming to stroke Aces head slowly. Ace had made some small movement, settling more and seeming to make himself comfortable, which really made him glad. Ace was facing him, making so Marco could see his face slowly relaxing as he fell asleep, face looking really relaxed as he breathed with his mouth.
Marco moved himself into a more comfortable position carefully, not wanting to wake Ace again. When he settled down and looked at Ace, his hand still in his hair, he realised this was the second time they shared a bed, but the first time Ace actually fell asleep first. Marco actually didn't know if Ace had slept when they were at Sabaody Anarchopedia, but he hoped he had. But this was a perfect thing too. Marco carefully moved his hand a bit lower, starting to stroke his upper back and neck, knowing Ace liked that. He hoped Ace might sleep for a while, at least a couple of hours. Marco could just be awake and do this, it was nice.
As time moved along, Marco felt his own eyelids grow heavy, realising he actually was tired himself. These last weeks had gotten to him a small bit as he had over thought everything with Ace. But everything was fine, he hadn't broken the trust or messed everything up, and that was a huge comfort. And although he tried to not fall asleep, he couldn't help it after half an hour, just feeling glad things were fine.
-x-
Izou gave a proud smile as he looked his work over, glad he had been able to fix the case to Ace. It had taken a long time, but he had explained it to Ace who said it was fine, he could use his spare cape. It had taken weeks since he used a week to try the fabric out and see if he could do it. It took some time, but he was able to work with it. The next week, he had just been too busy with being a division commander and such, also the division who had deck duty, and that took a lot.
But the last week, he had been able to actually fix it and he was really proud of it, one couldn't even see the tear.
He had been almost finished and had hoped to finish it tonight, so he could give it back as quickly as possible, it was the cape the assassin was known to use. Thatch was out with Blenheim, the two going to a loud bar or something, something the crossdresser didn't want to and had headed back to the ship. And since he had the time, he managed to finish the case in an hour. All that was needed now, was to give it back.
When he looked at the clock, it was about 11 at night. He thought Ace might be back on the ship, he handy heard anything since he had come back, or seen the assassin since he, or she, left the tavern. And Izou needed to speak to Ace about that. He looked absolutely stunning as a woman. And the makeup was perfect, as well as movement and everything, Ace was a natural at it. He decided that if Ace weren't here, he could just drip the cape off at his rooms, since Izou thought about heading out a small trip, to a bar Namur was going too. When he got to the door, he gave a knock, and when he heard nothing for a second, he opened the door to drip the cape off.
But as soon as he saw not one shape in the bed, but two, one having blond hair and an arm draped over the other, he quickly stepped out and closed the door fast, but quietly.
Izou stared at the door, trying to figure out if what he saw was really real. He was sure he saw two shapes, and there was no doubt on who the other was. He knew Marco had been stressed for whatever reason the last week, even really not liking Shanks tonight, more so than usual. He had guessed there had to be something with Ace, and he knew Pops also was worried, but things seemed to have fixed itself. Izou wanted to grab a camera and take a picture of it, but he knew that was a bad idea. Not only that Marco probably would be mad, but he had no idea how Ace would react. And both were secluded about their life. Hell, no one even knew about those two being together aside from a very few.
He quickly dropped the cape in his own rooms for now, before walking out on deck to see Namur speaking to Pops. When he went up to the two, he was about to tell he was ready, when Pops raised an eyebrow to him. ¨You look to be in a good mood, son.¨ Izou blinked, before he realised he was smiling. He shook his head, he was just pleased with himself for doing such a good job on the cape and startled and happy for the two he walked in on sleeping together.
Izou gave a smile to Pops. ¨Just finished a work and really pleased with it.¨ Pops knew he was fixing Aces cape and gave a smile. ¨That's good to hear.¨ Izou gave a nod and looked at Namur. ¨I'm ready to head out if you are.¨ Namur nodded, I am, just let me grab something and I'll meet you at the dock.¨ Izou gave a nod and the fishman left to grab what he needed. When he was out of sight, Izou took a quick look around, seeing no one close to them, most of the crew probably being out partying or something. He turned to look at Pops, giving a smile.
¨I tried to give the cape to Ace, but he was sleeping, and I didn't want to wake them.¨
He put pressure on the 'them' hoping Pops got it. He seemed to get it as he gave a smile and looked really glad, having noticed something off with Marco and even told him to stand ready to step in for Marco if anything happened. It seemed like the man was relieved a bit, glad to know the second and first commander were fine. He hoped Marco and Ace could be happy together. All the time he had known Marco, he had never had any interest in anyone, so this was a rare thing. And damn, he would do his best to make sure it worked out, both if those deserved happiness. And they fit together together.
After saying a few more words to his father, he left the ship to wait by the dock for Namur. He was glad things were gone right now.
-x-
Marco felt himself waking up and felt a bit bad for falling asleep. He always fell asleep and it was tearing to annoy him. He was glad Ace didn't seem to mind it, even though this was the first time Ace fell asleep first. Speaking of which, Marco was sure he felt his arm lying on something and had a small hope in him. When he did open his eyes, he gave a smile as he saw Ace was still there. He had turned around, facing away from him. Marcos hand was still on top of Aces back, Marco felt glad by the notion, glad Ace hadn't moved enough so it fell off or moved it away.
Marco lifted his busy a tiny bit to look at the clock on Aces desk and was surprised to see it had been almost 2 and a half hours since he fell asleep. That meant Ace had been asleep, or at least mostly asleep, for almost 3 hours. Marco laid back down again, moving his hand to carefully stroke Aces back. Ace made some small movement, letting out a breath, but nothing more than that. Marco continued to slowly stroke the back, feeling Ace was relaxed. Maybe a bit tense, but that might be from the work he had done the last weeks. It was nice to just relax like this, it was just perfect.
After half an hour, Ace let out a breath as he lifted his upper body, reaching for something at his desk.
Marco moved his hand off Ace, wondering what he was doing. As Ace lifted his body, Marco noticed Dust and a parchment on the bed, and felt a sigh inside himself as Ace most likely had to leave again. When Ace grabbed what he leaned for, a pen, he wrote something on the parchment, handing it back to Dust, who disappeared, before lying down again, giving a breath. When Ace laid back down, he had laid down so he was still turned away from him. Marco carefully moved his hand to lay over Ace, leaning in and giving a kiss to the back of his neck. ¨Need to leave, yoi?¨ Asked Marco, wanting to know for sure.
Ace gave a small hum, a hand moving to the one that was draped over him. ¨No.¨ Marco gave a nod, feeling Aces hand softly moving on his. Marco gave a small sigh, moving to sit up. ¨Ace, I think we should talk, yoi.¨ He saw Ace sending him a look, giving a nod as he stretched, before also sitting up. ¨What do you want to talk about?¨ Asked Ace with a look to him. Marco moved a hand to Aces, carefully placing it on top of it as some comfort, knowing Ace didn't want to talk about it.
Marco looked at Ace. ¨What happened three weeks ago, yoi.¨ Ace turned his head and averted his eyes from him. ¨I don't want to talk about it.¨ Marco gave a small sigh as he gave a small squeeze to the hand. ¨I know, yoi. It's just, I think I know why you reacted and I'm worried.¨ Ace continued to not look at him as he shook his head, ¨I'm fine, Marco.¨ Marco gave a small sigh inside himself, ¨Ace, yoi. It's okay to not be fine. I just realised, the reaction and scars and everything, it's the same as people who-,¨ ¨Marco, don't.¨ Said Ace, cutting him off.
Marco gave a small sigh as he nodded, understanding Ace really wouldn't talk about it, at least not now. He wouldn't force him to talk about it, but he would try again later. Marco squeezed Aces hand again, deciding to ask about one more thing, at least bring it up. ¨Maybe you should let Bay do a check, yoi.¨ Before he could say more, Ace shook his head. As Marco was on his way to tell he should, to be sure he didn't have anything in case he was right, Ace looked at him.
¨I'm clean. I know I'm clean, okay.¨
Marco looked at Ace, understanding what that actually meant. Marco nodded, giving a squeeze to the hand again, leaning back to relax against the wall. He had been right about it, about what he thought was the reason for Ace reacting that way and not liking to be underneath. Ace leaned back against the wall too, and Marco sent him a look, seeing Ace was looking at the wall again, having a neutral look, maybe close to gloomy.
Marco gave a small squeeze with his hand again, leaning in to give a kiss to his cheek, keeping his head leaned against Aces, to show it was sort of okay. That it didn't change how he felt about him. He felt Ace make some small movement, but didn't make him move away, probably just making himself more comfortable. He had hoped he wasn't right, that he was on the wrong thought. But Benn had sort of proved he was right, and Ace just completely proved it. No matter what Ace might say, Marco knew he weren't fine. Not only that it was a horrible thing, but that he clearly was bothered by it, which he knew since Ace didn't want it talk about it, not even hearing him say it.
He would try to bring it up again later, and do so until he could help Ace with it. He should face it and try to move past it.
He just continued to have his head leaned against Aces, giving him some comfort, Ace not seeming to mind this. The reason Ace didn't like touch also made much more reason now.
-x-
Ace gave a sigh as he changed out of his assassin clothing. Having gotten an assignment a few hours ago, an hour or so after the conversation with Marco. The assignment had gone by fine, just an information run. Ace decided to do some paperwork now, since he had slept before, even having slept good and a bit longer than usual, which was surprisingly nice. It was mostly because he was tired, closing in on being awake for 5 days, but he wasn't exhausted or too tired, but it had been nice to sleep.
What surprised him more was the fact he managed to sleep peacefully with Marco so close. He usually didn't do that, sleep well with people close. He slept well with Luffy and Sabo around, could even sleep around some assassins, but that was different. He was getting more used to Marco and since he hadn't been close to him for a while, not for some weeks, it was surprisingly nice. It also helped that Marco stroked his hair. Those hair clips and fake hair were heavy and itchy, so it was good to rid of them and even better to have Marco stroke it.
It had taken him by mild surprise when he had seen the pirates at the tavern when he was dressed as Ann, even worse when he knew Shanks would tell who 'Ann' really were. He could see the shock on many of their faces, especially Thatchs. But it was fine, they would have figured it out eventually anyway. They seemed to accept it, and not mind it, just shocked. When Shanks had fixed his hair a bit, hiding a clip and moving it to its original place, Shanks had said that he had told them, just so he knew about it. After that, he had noticed Marco leaving in small huff, making him wonder what about, Benn following after. He hadn't been able to think more of it then, since he was almost at the finish with fishing for information. When he had it, he just invited them to a room and killed them off, hiding their bodies far away with the help of Dust.
When he had been followed by Marco back to the ship, he was glad that he seemed okay with how he was dressed and what he did. Not everyone was that, and he could understand that, but was glad Marco didn't mind, even saying how he shocked Thatch who knew who Ann was. When they had gotten to the room and Marco help him with the dress, felt glad when he didn't make any comments about it. The only one he made about his outfit was his eyes. He had said they were red beaches of his mother, which only were a half truth. She had had red eyes, but it was more because Azuruko had had red eyes, even using the same hair style as the other man, one of the reasons he liked that maro thought it was amazing.
It had been good to relax too, Ace waking at one point since he thought he heard something, but when he didn't see or hear anything after that, he just laid back down, seeing Marco also asleep, actually liking the hand on his back, it was a bit comforting for some reason, making him fall back asleep again. And he had woken up when Dust came with the assignment he had declined. He hadn't really realised Marco was awake before he had draped a hand over him, giving a kiss. Even though Ace was more comfortable around Marco, he couldn't help but place a hand on his, just to have a control over it.
When Marco had wanted to talk and brought the incident up, even connecting the dots, he had stopped him, not wanting to talk about it.
He wasn't ready to do that, not with Marco at least, or anyone in reality. It was just something he avoided as much as he could. Ace would say he was fine, but knew many wouldn't agree, but he was fine, that was at least what he told himself. When Marco had told him to go to Bay, he knew why. It was to check if he had gotten anything, which one usually did.
Ace had been lucky, not getting anything that couldn't be treated, and he hadn't been in a situation where he could get anything for a while. But he knew that when he said he knew he was clean, that Marco would know it was true, that he had been right about his thoughts, not that it would make Ace talk about it. Just the fact Marco had stayed and given a kiss, even leaning his head against his was comforting and nice. People usually changed when they found things like this out, but Marco said, although silently through his actions, that it was fine. And that was something Ace liked.
When Ace gave a stretch and looked at his bed, he noticed something and felt a smile as he recognised the fabric and walked over. When he was at the bed, he lifted the cape and saw it was fixed, the tear not visible unless you looked really close. It was amazingly done and he would need to thank Izou later.
He was starting to really like it here on the crew, especially since those who knew, didn't seem to mind him being an assassin. At least not mind it too much, they let him continue, something he really liked, to be understood. He was rarely understood. It was a nice new change he was getting used too.
-x-OUTTAKE-x-
Corazon could only stare shocked at the scene that had just played out. Law kissed someone. Law, the person everyone thought to be asexual, kissed someone. Law never was attracted to anyone. And yet, there he were, kissing another boy. And not just anyone, it was the brat they had ran into way too much the last few months. How the hell had this happened?! Law had said that he was wrong about the feather and assassin thing, not that he entirely believed that, but the brat at least knew Rayleigh and was brother to Portgas D Ace, second commander on Whitebeard's ship.
What had Law gotten himself into now? Was he really actually attracted to someone?!
After Law had just stared at him shocked and embarrassed and just walked past him, going back to the submarine and locking himself into his room, Corazon had almost had a heart attack. Law was attracted to someone! How could he not freak out? Law was his little kid, a sadistic and cold hearted bastard, but his little Law. And he was attracted to someone.
And Law being Law, had avoided the topic and even threatened to cut him to pieces or just take his heart and slowly torture him, a threat he knew was real, he had just let the kid be. But by the Seven seas, Law liked someone. Not that the kid seemed to realise it himself, but damn, he had no idea what to do now. He needed to do something. Law had reached a new sadistic low since he was pissed about everything, probably not knowing what he felt, he might be an amazing doctor, but he was a lousy person when it came to feelings.
But when they docked a while later, wouldn't you know it, the damn brat was there too.
Law didn't know. The kid hiding away in his room, threatening everyone who came close to his room. Hiding away so Corazon had to do everything and stock up on everything, sending looks at the brat running around and being… well a brat. What Law might see in that childish brat was beyond him. But he couldn't have a more sadistic and possibly homicidal Law on the submarine, not unless he liked having a crew, which Corazon did. The only one who might survive Laws wrath was Beepo, Law loved the furry bear. Not that Law knew what love was. The kid was supposed to be asexual, not kiss random people and look like he really liked it!
As he was walking through some buildings, he saw the damn brat running after a butterfly. What was wrong with the kid? A butterfly?! But there were no one around, which gave him an idea. Of what Law said was true, him having investigated it as he said, the kids didn't have any connection to the assassin. Corazon placed the items he had down and made a sound barrier around the kid, before walking up to him. The kid stopped and looked at him, sending a stupid goofy grin. ¨Hey! You're that guy with Traffy! How is he?¨ Again, what the hell did Law see in this kid?! ¨Here.¨ Said Corazon, handing the kid a candy. ¨From Law.¨ The brat gave a smile and swallowed it in one go.
Not even a minute later, the kid's eyes glazed over as he staggered in place, sending him a look as he tried to talk, before he fell over unconscious.
Corazon shook his head as he lifted the unconscious kid and picking his items back up. He was going to get to the bottom of this, even of that meant to kidnap the naive brat for a short while. What could possibly go wrong?
And that's the chapter, hope you enjoyed
I know I might have focused a bit much on Benn and Marco, and Marco being nervous and all that, but I hope it was okay. And some fluff between the Ace and Marco was hopefully nice, I thought so at least. As well as some issues
And I know I have focused a lot on Marco and Ace as well as Aces interaction with the pirates in the past. But would you maybe want the next chapter to be about Ace and his work? A chapter about Ace being his badass self. It will have more than just that, but focus more on it? If you'd like that, or not and just have me continue as always, please tell
If you like this story, please check out Ace of Spades One Shots, which contains one shots and different events from this story.
If you have any requests, questions or if you're wondering about something in the story, feel free to ask. And if you liked the chapter, feel free to leave a review/comment