Chapter 25 : What Just Happened?

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Chapter 25 : What Just Happened?


You stirred from slumber, the rhythmic sound of gentle snoring reaching your ears. The embrace surrounding you was both comforting and surprisingly familiar, a mix of Zoro's presence and the coziness of your surroundings. Memory fragments flickered in your mind, recalling how the conversation with Zoro had led to an unplanned nap.

Yet, the specifics of how you had transitioned from the couch to the bed eluded you, blurred by the haze of drowsiness.

Attempting to adjust your position, you realized you were ensconced in a bit of a cocoon, Zoro's arms forming an affectionate barrier around you. A shy flush warmed your cheeks as the realization dawned, and you marveled at how easily you had nestled against him in your sleep.

The way his warmth seeped into your skin, the steady rise and fall of his chest against your back—it felt comforting and oddly right.

Your mind danced between feeling a deep-rooted connection with Zoro, as if he had been a constant in your life, and acknowledging the reality that you had met him just a few weeks ago.

The dual perception of time left you a little bewildered but also intrigued. What sort of bond could feel so ancient and yet so fresh?

Glancing at Zoro's peaceful features, you examined every contour, every scar, as if trying to etch his image into your memory. It was a privilege to witness him in such a state, unguarded and at peace.

The way his brow relaxed, the softness of his breathing—it humanized the strong swordsman you had come to care for deeply.

In this quiet moment, you allowed your mind to wander, reflecting on how your life had taken such an unexpected turn. Adventure had always been a part of your dreams, but you had never envisioned a journey so intertwined with love, friendship, and the enigma of your past.

With a contented sigh, you surrendered to the tranquil atmosphere, a sense of gratitude welling up within you. The unknown awaited, and you were ready to face it, hand in hand with Zoro, cherishing every moment of this remarkable, unpredictable adventure.

A blush slowly crept across your cheeks as you observed Zoro in his peaceful slumber. Your heart raced, not because of fear or anxiety, but because of the tender embarrassment that bubbled within you.

The sight of him, so vulnerable and genuine in sleep, had taken you by surprise.

You couldn't help but feel like you were intruding on an intimate moment, even though your intentions were entirely innocent. It was as if you had stumbled upon something incredibly personal, something that you weren't meant to see.

The deeper your gaze delved into his features, the more you noticed the small details that made him uniquely Zoro. The faint scar on his cheek, the way his long lashes rested against his skin, the slight twitch of his lips as he breathed.

These nuances were etched into your memory, and it made your cheeks burn with a mixture of fascination and self-consciousness.

You felt like a curious child caught peeking behind a curtain, wanting to explore and understand but also acutely aware of your intrusion. Your own vulnerability mirrored his as you stared, wide-eyed, at the man who had become such an integral part of your life in such a short span of time.

While part of you longed to reach out and trace the lines of his features, another part chastised you for your audacity. It was a delicate balance between wanting to respect his privacy and cherishing this intimate moment of connection.

The duality of emotions left you feeling both thrilled and bashful, and you couldn't help but turn your gaze away, a shy smile tugging at your lips.

"Like what you see?" Zoro's voice, laced with a playful tone, melted into the morning air, reaching your ears as a gentle caress.

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