The Thousand Sunny sailed through the calm seas, its crew relishing the peaceful moment after the chaos of Punk Hazard. Among the crew's usual banter and laughter, a new dynamic had begun to emerge.
Trafalgar Law, the enigmatic captain of the Heart Pirates and their newest ally, was seated close to Robin. The pair were engrossed in a book sprawled between them, its pages filled with mysterious texts and symbols. Law's tone carried a note of admiration as he spoke, "Your insight on these texts is remarkable, Robin," Law said, his voice tinged with respect.
Robin, her eyes scanning the page, replied without looking up. "Thank you, Law. These writings could hold clues to our next moves as a crew."
Zoro, usually found either training fiercely or dozing off, couldn't help but stay within earshot of the pair. He was never one to openly express his feelings, but the sight of Law leaning close to Robin stirred something in him. He continued to observe them from a distance, his expression hardening slightly. The way Law seemed to captivate Robin with his intellect, the way their heads inclined towards each other as they talked – it all seemed to prick at Zoro's usually composed demeanor. "This has been going on for days now…" Zoro thought to himself.
His hand subconsciously rested on the hilt of his sword, his brow furrowing as he watched. His concentration was so focused on Robin and Law that he almost missed Olivia, his 3-year-old daughter, approaching him with her usual bright energy.
"Daddy, play swordfight with me!" Olivia pleaded, tugging at Zoro's pants, her small wooden sword in hand.
Zoro glanced down at his daughter, a softness momentarily replacing the stern look in his eyes. "In a bit, Livy," he said, forcing a smile. "Why don't you go see if Chopper wants to play first? I'll join you soon."
As Olivia scampered off, Zoro's attention was drawn back to Robin and Law. He watched as Law pointed out a particular passage and leaned into Robin. They were so absorbed in their discussion that they seemed to exist in a world of their own.
He tried to shake off the unsettling feeling, to focus on his own tasks, but his thoughts kept drifting back to them. It was unlike Zoro to feel this way – this sense of unease, this underlying current of… was it jealousy?
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the crew assembled for their evening meal. Olivia, sat perched on her dad's lap, excitedly talked about how she beat him in their sword fight. However, Zoro's attention was only half on his daughter's enthusiastic storytelling. His eyes frequently strayed to another part of the table where Robin and Law were engrossed in a deep discussion.
"Mommy! I beat Daddy during swordfights!" Olivia says pulling her mother out of her conversation with Law.
"Good job, baby!" Robin said with a smile. Before she turned her focus back to Law she noticed the way Zoro was watching her. She gave him a small smile before turning back to Law.
Zoro watched as Law leaned in closer to Robin, their heads almost touching, their conversation once again a quiet murmur lost in the middle of the general chatter around the table.
Franky, sitting near Zoro, nudge him. "Hey, Zoro, you've been staring a hole through those two. What's up, bro?" Franky asked, his voice laced with concern and curiosity.
Zoro's brow furrowed slightly as he turned to Franky, a gruff grunt escaping his lips. "Nothing… I'm fine," he said abruptly, but his tone belied his words. His hand subconsciously moved to the hilt of his sword, resting at his side.
Olivia, noticing her father is once again not listening to her, tugged his sleeve. "Daddy, you're not listening," she complained, her voice a mix of hurt and confusion.
Zoro quickly shifted his focus to his daughter, forcing a smile. "Sorry, Livy. You said you are the best swordsman, right?" he said, trying to engage with her.
Olivia beamed, happy to have her father's attention again. "When I grow up, I'm going to fight like you!" she exclaimed.
Across the table, Robin laughed at something Law said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. The sound of her laughter seemed to resonate in Zoro's ears, amplifying his inner turmoil.
Sanji, who was passing by with a tray of food, couldn't help but notice Zoro's troubled demeanor. "Oi, moss head, if you keep frowning like that, you'll scare little Olivia," he teased, but his words fell on deaf ears.
Later that night, the gentle rocking of the Thousand Sunny provided a soothing lullaby for its crew. The moon cast a silvery glow through the small window of Robin and Zoro's shared room, where Robin lay in bed, the soft sheets wrapped around her. The room was peaceful, but something felt off. Turning on her side, she reached out expecting to find Zoro beside her, but her hand only met the cool, empty space of the bed.
Sitting up, Robin glanced around the dimly lit cabin. Their daughter, slept soundly in her small bed, her tiny chest rising and falling rhythmically. But her partner was conspicuously absent. For the past few nights, he had been taking extra shifts on watch, volunteering to relieve others and spending less time in their room. Robin couldn't help but feel a little pang of concern, hurt, and confusion.
Slipping out of bed and wrapping a small blanket around her, she moved quietly across the room, careful not to disturb Olivia. Robin stepped out onto the deck, her eyes adjusting to the moonlit surroundings.
The ship was calm, with most of the crew fast asleep. The only sounds were the gentle lapping of waves against the hull and the occasional creak of the wood. Robin's gaze swept across the deck, searching for Zoro. Spotting a faint light coming from the crow's nest, Robin climbed up to join him. As she reached the top, she saw Zoro staring out the window with a bottle of sake in hand, gazing out at the endless ocean.
"Zoro?" Robin's voice was soft but carried in the still night air. "You're here again?"
Zoro turned to look at her, expression a mix of surprise and something unreadable. "Couldn't sleep?" he said, his voice was low.
She crossed the small space to sit on his lap and wrap the blanket she brought around both of them. "It's hard to sleep without you. You've been up here a lot lately. Is everything okay?"
Zoro looked away, back out to sea. "Just thinking," he muttered, taking a swig from the bottle.
Robin curled into Zoro's lap and rested her head on his shoulder. "Thinking about what?"
Zoro hesitated, then sighed. "Just… stuff. About us, the crew, the future." His words were vague, but Robin could sense the underlying tension.
"Honey, if something is bothering you, you can tell me. We're partners, aren't we?" Robin's voice was quiet and laced with concern.
Zoro finally wrapped one of his arms around Robin as his usual stoic façade wavered slightly. "I know. It's just… you know I'm not good with words." He paused, taking another sip of sake. "I guess I'm just trying to figure some things out, about us."
Robin felt her heart sink a little as doubt crept into her mind about Zoro wanting to leave her and Olivia. Trying to fight the doubts, she finally spoke up, "Did I do something wrong?"
Zoro put down his sake and wrapped both arms around her trying to comfort her, "No, Robin, it's not you. It's… I don't know how to say it."
Robin, now trying to hide her growing anxiety, made a move to get up. "I don't want to pressure you. I'll let you have some space."
But Zoro's grip tightened, pulling her back gently. "Stay, please. I need you here."
Robin relaxed back into his embrace, still worried until a few moments later, she realized something. "You've been acting different since Law came aboard."
Zoro avoided her gaze, a hint of frustration in his voice. "I see how he is around you and I don't like it."
"Zoro, are you jealous?" Robin said looking at Zoro in surprise.
Zoro finally met her eyes, a mixture of embarrassment and sincerity in his expression. "He bothers me. Sometimes he's practically all over you."
Robin exhaled softly; her voice filled with understanding but also a hint of frustration. "Law and I just share an interest in history. Besides, I've already voiced my opinion to Luffy. I don't fully trust Law and pirate alliances never end well, but you know how our captain is."
Zoro looked down, his tone apologetic. "I shouldn't have doubted you. I'm sorry for not being around you much either."
Robin shifted as close as she could to him, her arms wrapping around his neck. "You don't ever have to worry about losing me. Honestly, I fear for the safety of anyone who would try to take me or Olivia from you."
Zoro chuckled a little, "They wouldn't last long at all." He said as Robin kissed his forehead and then he felt her lips on his cheek and then his lips.
Finally feeling himself relax, Zoro gave in to Robin's kisses and laid back on the couch pulling her with him.
~~~
A few days later, as the morning light filtered through their bedroom window, Zoro lay awake, thoughts swirling in his mind. Law still being here on the ship still doesn't set well with him. Even though Robin has distanced herself a little more from Law, Zoro still can't help this feeling. Looking over at Robin he gently brushed a kiss on her forehead, careful not to wake her.
Silently slipping out of bed, he got dressed quickly and quietly. Zoro quietly walked over to the small bed where Olivia was sleeping. He gently shook her, "Livy, time to wake up," he whispered, his voice barely audible.
Olivia stirred, her eyes fluttering open. "Daddy?" she mumbled, rubbing sleep from her eyes.
He nodded, a soft smile on his face. "We're going on a mission. We're going to get something special for Mommy."
Quietly, with practiced ease, Zoro helped his daughter into her clothes, their movements hushed to keep from waking Robin.
As they prepared to leave the room, Zoro cast one last glance at Robin, still asleep. In that peaceful moment, he felt a surge of emotion – a mix of love, determination, and a touch of fear. Today, he would take a step to ensure that their family, his greatest treasure, remained strong and unbreakable.
Making their way to the upper deck, Olivia and Zoro started their secret mission. Olivia, her excitement palpable clutched her father's hand tightly as they walked.
As they approached Nami's room, Zoro hesitated for a moment. He knew asking Nami for money was a tricky affair, especially given his notorious history with money. Taking a deep breath, he knocked gently on the door.
Nami opened the door, her expression changing from surprise to suspicion. "Zoro? What do you need this early in the morning?" she asked, eyeing him warily.
"I, uh, need to borrow some money," Zoro said, avoiding her gaze. He knew how this sounded, especially coming from him.
Nami raised an eyebrow, her skepticism evident. "And why should I believe you'll use it wisely?"
He leaned in, whispering something into Nami's ear. Olivia watched curiously, trying to catch a word or two, but Zoro's voice was too low.
Nami's eyes widened in shock, her initial disbelief quickly turning into excitement. "Really? You're serious about this?" she whispered back, a smile spreading across her face.
Nami agreed immediately, her usual reservations about lending money to Zoro vanishing in light of his answer. She even offered to accompany them to the island they docked at the previous day, eager to help with this special task.
With a shared sense of purpose, Zoro, Nami, and Olivia made their way to the island. The marketplace was bustling with activity, colorful stalls, and vibrant wares on every corner.
Nami led them through the maze of shops, her eyes scanning for the perfect place. "This way," she said, her excitement showing. "I know just the shop."
They arrived at a quaint little jewelry store, its windows displaying an array of sparkling gems and metals. Nami spoke to the shopkeeper, a friendly old man with a keen eye for detail.
While Nami discussed specifics with the jeweler, Zoro's attention was divided between the rings and Olivia, who was captivated by the glittering display. "They're like treasure," she whispered in awe.
Zoro picked out a few rings, each time looking to Nami for approval. She nodded or shook her head, guiding him through the selection. "Do you just have something simple?" Zoro says looking at the shop keeper.
He smiles and pulls out a simple yet elegant ring that seemed to shine in any light.
Zoro and Nami both nodded. "This is it." Zoro said as Nami, after much negotiation, paid the shop keeper. Once Nami took Olivia out of the shop, Zoro stayed back to get one more thing. "There was a necklace that my daughter liked. It actually looks like it matches the ring." Zoro said looking at the man. "Can I get that as well?"
The man nodded and handed Zoro the necklace after he paid. Zoro smiled being able to get something for both of his girls.
Now outside of the shop, Nami insisted they buy new outfits for the upcoming special occasion. Zoro was less enthusiastic about this part of the plan, but Olivia's excitement was contagious. "I want to look like a princess," she declared, her eyes shining with anticipation.
In the next shop, Nami found a charming lavender colored dress for Olivia, one that made her look like the little princess she wanted to be. For Zoro, she selected a dark green outfit that looked almost black unless the light hit it just right. It was a sharp outfit that was both stylish and befitting of his rugged nature.
As they left the marketplace, Zoro felt a weight lifted off his shoulders. The ring, safely tucked away in his pocket, was more than just a piece of jewelry. It was a symbol of his commitment, his love for Robin, and his dedication to their family.
The return journey to the Thousand Sunny was filled with light-hearted chatter and laughter. Olivia, twirling in her new dress, was the picture of happiness. Nami, pleased with the successful trip, couldn't help but tease Zoro about his upcoming task.
Zoro, for his part, was quiet, lost in thought. He knew the hardest part was yet to come, but with the support of his friends and daughter, he felt ready to take this next step in his journey with Robin.
As they were getting ready to walk back onto the ship, Nami ran ahead to make sure she could distract Robin as Zoro, Olivia, and the rest of the crew sprang into action to get ready for tonight.
The sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm, golden hue over the Thousand Sunny. As Nami brought Robin into her room, Nami was abuzz with an unusual energy.
"Robin, you should dress up tonight," Nami said with a sparkle in her eye. "Let's do something fun! It's not often we get a beautiful calm evening like this."
Robin, taken back by Nami's sudden enthusiasm for dressing up, raised an eyebrow. "Dress up? For what occasion?"
"Just… because! We've been through so much lately. A little celebration wouldn't hurt," Nami replied, rummaging through her clothes. She pulled out an elegant dark purple dress that she had been saving for a special occasion. "Here, wear this. You'll look stunning."
Robin hesitated, but the excitement in Nami's voice was becoming contagious. "Alright, if you insist," she agreed with a small smile.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the ship, Zoro was in his own world of nerves and preparation. Olivia, still in her new princess-like dress, was hopping around excitedly.
"Look at me, Daddy! I'm a pirate princess!" she exclaimed, twirling around.
Zoro couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. "You look amazing, Livy," he said, his heart swelling pride. He was dressed in the outfit Nami had picked out for him, feeling somewhat out of his element but understanding the importance of the occasion.
Luffy and the rest of the crew were also getting into the spirit, putting on their best clothes. The usually casual and carefree crew was transforming the deck into a festive atmosphere, with lights strung up by Usopp, a table set up on the deck built by Franky, and a special meal courtesy of Sanji.
As Robin emerged from Nami's cabin, dressed in the outfit Nami had chosen, Zoro stopped what he was doing and just stared. She looked breathtaking; her beauty accentuated by the soft glow of the evening light.
Nami, who had also dressed up, linked arms with Robin. "Let's join the others," she said guiding her towards the deck.
Olivia ran over to Robin and stared up at her mother with stars in her eyes. "Mommy, you look like you could be a queen!" Robin giggled as she carefully crouched down to Olivia's height. Looking at her daughter, Robin said, "You look like a beautiful princess, sweetheart." Olivia smiled as she twirled showing her mom the dress. "Aunt Nami bought it for me! Oh, she also helped Daddy buy your r—" but her mouth was quickly covered by Nami's hand.
Robin looked stunned at Nami's reaction and before she could say something, Nami spoke up, "What I got was personal and she promised she wasn't going to say anything." Robin still confused just nodded and stood up.
As Robin walked around deck just hanging out with her crewmates, Zoro couldn't help but stand back and keep his eyes fixed on her. The sight of her in that dress, under the starlit sky, was something he knew he'd never forget.
As they gathered around the table, the air was filled with laughter and chatter. Sanji outdid himself with the meal, serving dish after dish of delicious food.
Olivia, seated beside Zoro, chatted animatedly how much fun her day was and the new dress. Zoro listened, but his mind was elsewhere, rehearsing what he was about to do.
Finally, as the meal was ending and the sky turned a deeper shade of twilight, Zoro stood up, clearing his throat. The deck fell silent, all eyes turning to him in confusion outside of Nami who was secretly rooting for him.
"Uh, wow. I um. I have something to say," he began, his voice a little rough with emotion. Zoro moved away from the table some and looked at his girls. "Olivia, can you come here?"
Not sure what he was doing, Nami looked on confused wondering how Olivia will fit into this.
"Livy, I know that I didn't get to be around for a little while when you were born, but I am happy that I get to be the dad to the greatest daughter in the world. So, I wanted to give you something." Zoro pulled out the necklace he bought. "I wanted to give you this necklace as a promise that I'll always be with you, no matter what." Zoro gently put the necklace around Olivia's neck and as he clasped it, he whispered, "Go distract Mommy really quick. I have her present next."
As the crew cheered and Robin teared up at the swordsman's words, Olivia ran over to her mother excitedly to show her the necklace. As Robin's focus was on their daughter, Zoro positioned himself on one knee behind her and he held up the ring box, but kept it closed. Nami saw this and got Robin's attention. "Um Robin?" She pointed behind Robin who turned around to see Zoro, her swordsman, down on one knee.
Zoro took a deep breath, steadying himself. This was it, the moment he had been preparing all day for, the moment that would change everything. As he met Robin's eyes, everything else faded away. It was just him, her, and the promise of a future he was about to offer.
"Robin," he began, his voice carrying across the quiet deck, "these past years with you… they've been the best of my life. You've given me a beautiful daughter, and you've stood by me through everything."
He opened the box to reveal the ring. "I want to keep making memories with you, to face whatever comes our way together. I want this to be my promise to you that I will always be by your side. So, Nico Robin, will you marry me?"
The crew held their breath, awaiting Robin's response. Robin, caught completely off guard, felt a wave of emotions crash over her. Her eyes flickered between the ring and Zoro's earnest, hopeful expression. A thousand thoughts raced through her mind, but one feeling overshadowed them all – love.
She smiled, her eyes glistening in the starlight. "Yes, of course, Zoro," she said, her voice filled with joy and love.
A cheer erupted from the crew, breaking the spellbound silence. Luffy jumped up, punching the air in excitement. "Alright! Zoro and Robin are getting married!"
Sanji, who was visibly emotional, narrowed his eyes at Zoro. "Zoro, if you hurt my Robin-chwan…"
Franky, wiping a tear from his eye, declared, "This calls for a SUPER celebration!"
Brook played his violin, starting a lively tune, while Chopper and Usopp danced around, caught up in the happiness of the moment.
Zoro, beaming with happiness, slid the ring onto Robin's finger. He then wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her into a passionate kiss as Robin wrapped her arms around his neck deepening the kiss.
Robin, overwhelmed by the love and support of her family and friends, felt a profound sense of belonging. This moment, under the stars with the people she loved most, would be etched in her heart forever.
Zoro gently ended the kiss, maintaining a protective arm around Robin. The deck was abuzz with excitement, the crew showering them with congratulations and well-wishes.
Just then, Law, who had recently returned from an excursion on the island, noticed the joyful scene. He approached Luffy, who was in the middle of dancing and stuffing his face with food. "What's going on?" Law asked, curious about the sudden celebration.
Luffy, without missing a beat, grinned and declared, "Zoro and Robin are getting married! We're throwing a party!" He let out a loud cheer after that, continuing his festive antics.
Law, with a small smile, made his way through the celebrating crew to Zoro and Robin. Extending his hand to Zoro, he offered his congratulations. "Looks like you made a great decision. Robin's an incredible woman."
Zoro, his eyes softening as he glanced at Robin, firmly gripped Law's hand. "Thanks, Law. She's my everything, and I'll do whatever it takes to make sure she stays happy." Zoro leaned in kissing her cheek causing Robin to smile.
Law nodded, a look of understanding in his eyes. Without much fanfare, he excused himself, slipping away into the library, leaving the Straw Hats to their celebration.
Zoro stopped Nami as she passed by, "Hey can you let Olivia stay with you tonight? I was hoping Robin and I could have a night alone?" he said nervously hoping Nami was still in a mood to help him.
"Of course! Aunt Nami has this!" Nami said as she spotted a very tired Olivia trying to dance with the other Straw Hats. Scooping up the sleepy Olivia, Nami walked to her room. "Come on, little pirate princess, let's get you to bed," Nami said with a gentle smile.
As Nami walked Olivia passed her parents, she yawned widely and rested her head on Nami's shoulder. "Night-night Mommy and Daddy," she mumbled sleepily, waving a small hand towards her parents.
Zoro leaned down, giving Olivia a gentle kiss on her forehead. "Goodnight, Livy. Sleep tight," he said softly.
Robin kissed Olivia's cheek, whispering, "Sweet dreams, my love."
Nami, made her way to her room, leaving Zoro and Robin alone under the starry night sky.
Zoro faced Robin again, taking her hands in his. "How about we go find a quiet part of the deck? Just the two of us?"
Robin's eyes sparkled in the moonlight as she nodded, her hand fitting perfectly in Zoro's. They strolled in comfortable silence, the sounds of the party fading behind them.
The night air was cool but refreshing, the gentle sway of the ship and the sound of the waves creating a serene atmosphere. They stopped at the bow, looking out at the endless ocean before them.
Zoro wrapped his arms around Robin from behind, resting his chin on her shoulder. "I meant what I said earlier," he murmured as he turned his head slightly to kiss her neck. "I'll do anything to make you happy, Robin." He kissed up her neck as he held her closer causing her to tilt her head.
Robin leaned back into his embrace, feeling the warmth of his body. "You already do, Zoro. Just being with you, like this, is more than I could have even asked for."
They stood together in silence, lost in the moment, the vast sea stretching endlessly before them. The stars above shone brightly, reflecting the joy and love in their hearts.
"You know you could wear that dress more often." Zoro says kissing Robin's shoulder which makes her turn around to face him.
Hovering her lips teasingly close to Zoro's, Robin whispers, "And why is that Swordsman?"
"I'll show you," Zoro whispers back as he presses his lips to Robin's causing her to wrap her arms around his neck.
As the night deepened, they had made it back to their room, ready to make this evening even more unforgettable. The future seemed brighter than ever, filled with promises and dreams waiting to be fulfilled.