The Swordsman's Cat ( Zoro X Reader)

Chapter 22 : One Step At A Time

Chapter 22 : One Step At A Time

Zoro maintained his grip on your hand, ensuring you were steady as you climbed the stairs. Perona, floating above, watched with a touch of concern for your well-being. There was a certain tenderness in Zoro's demeanor, a contrast to his usual tough exterior, and it didn't go unnoticed.

A smile played on your lips at the sight of Zoro's small blush and his attempts to maintain his stoic facade. You chuckled lightly, appreciating the efforts of the muscle-headed swordsman.

As you all reached your room, Perona immediately made her way to your wardrobe, likely in search of dry clothes to replace her current wet attire.

Taking a few steps toward your study table, you were about to sit down when a sudden sneeze escaped you.

Zoro's eyebrows arched in mild concern, prompting him to inquire if the room's temperature was the culprit.

You glanced at the table, noting the layers of dust that had settled on it.

Dismissing the idea of the cold room, you shook your head and explained to Zoro, "Unlikely, must be the dust that has collected in the room over time."

Zoro surveyed the room once again, realizing it hadn't seen much use in months. Cobwebs and dust stood as silent witnesses to its neglect.

He playfully teased, "Never took my soulmate to be a lazy bum, not bothering to clean her room."

A playful retort danced on your lips, and you shot back with a smirk, "Coming from the man who showers once a week?"

Zoro stammered momentarily, unable to conjure a quick comeback, bringing a giggle from you.

The light banter between you eased the atmosphere, reminding you that amidst the serious matters at hand, moments of light-heartedness were essential.

"H-ow do you even know that?!" Zoro stuttered, his face flushing crimson.

Your response was succinct, leaving a playful smile on your lips as you simply stated,"Instincts."

Turning your attention back to the table, you continued to speak, elaborating on the presence of dust that seemed to have settled in the room.

Your hands began to sift through the desk drawers in search of a paper and quill pen.

"The dust collected in the room because apparently, when I was 18, I set out to travel the world," you began, the memories stirring within you.

"I don't know why, but Daddy gave me his blessing, and off I went. However, somewhere along the journey, I lost my memories and found myself back here. My powers, memories, even habits are all muddled up at the moment. I don't know how to fully control my abilities, or even where to start."

As your fingers discovered a stack of papers, along with a quill and ink, you pulled them out, readying to put your thoughts to paper. Zoro, ever patient and supportive, moved closer and took a seat on the table, his arms folded.

He listened intently, silently urging you to continue with a calm and reassuring presence.

"I do recall some memories," you continued, your voice tinged with frustration and longing.

"But the more I try to unlock them, the more questions seem to surface instead of answers."

The weight of your journey to reclaim your identity felt like a heavy burden, and the uncertainty weighed on you, a daunting maze you were determined to navigate.

Zoro's gaze softened as he absorbed the torrent of emotions flooding into him. He could empathize with the feeling of anxiety and worry, the uncertainty of the unknown. But experiencing it through your emotions was different.