Newbie's Skill

Nine

"How's the food?" the chef asked after he returned from giving the others their food.

"It's amazing," I smiled.

"You know, you're too innocent and adorable for your own good," he chuckled. I opened my eyes to look at him. He was straightening his stance after bending over to give Champ his breakfast.

"Is that bad?"

"Not necessarily. I think that's why Marco and Ace like you so much, though. You're a sweet, innocent boy lost at sea, waiting for a family of his own," he explained, munching on a piece of bacon.

"I'm so used to being alone, I don't know how to show affection," I admitted. I avoided his eyes as he listened intently.

"This morning is a major start. At least you're comfortable with at least one of us. You'll have someone to show you the ropes. I know the others seem big and scary, but we've never really had anyone as young as you join our crew. It's a new experience. Well, disregarding Ace's special case."

"Can I ask something really dumb?"

"Sure. Trust me, I've heard almost all of it before."

"How can I say thanks to Ace and Marco and...uhm..."

"Pops?"

"Y-yeah." My face heated at the confession. "And how can I approach the others?" I glanced up, and he was speechless.

"Well, now. You're warming up a little," he chuckled. "Let's see. I guess whatever way you're comfortable showing affection, and as for the others..." He glanced out the door window. He smiled fondly. "Spend time near them. Get to know them. Join in on their fun. As long as you don't get hurt, that is. Ace would put them through hell." I smiled shyly at the table. "I've got extra bacon. Want some?" I nodded happily. I scarfed it down happily, and he ruffled my hair with affection. It gave me a small idea.

"I'm going out..." I murmured.

"You got this, Kiddo. You can't really disappoint on this ship." I nodded, opening the door and exiting. My hands trembled slightly as Champ raced off towards the crew. I wish I was a dog and just instantly got love, but nope. I wasn't. I was a normal, worthless human. How unfortunate. I swallowed thickly. I slowly approached the group...the...massive group. I felt so out of place, like I didn't belong here. Was it only natural since I was new? Was it a sign? I had to pause in my tracks to figure out how to breathe again. Ace and Marco were in the front, laughing with what the crew was talking about. I didn't want to ruin their fun.

"Hey, Kid!" Ace called. I stiffened. Damn it...he noticed me. Ship, can you just swallow me? I noticed Ace frowned in worry. It was now or never. I had to do something, or I would never be able to come out of my shell. If I couldn't do something as simple as this, then I had to get off this ship. I swallowed thickly, moving forward. Marco gripped Ace's shoulder, and the next thing I remembered was I dropped to my knees and landed in their arms.