One Piece x Reader (Short Stories)

Zoro x Sanji: Winter Proposal (Modern AU)

Zoro gazed out of the window, a heavy sigh escaping his lips. He ran his fingers across the damp glass, momentarily closing his eyes as he attempted to redirect his overwhelming emotions. Determined to hold back tears, he adjusted his posture and shifted his attention to the road ahead. His eyes briefly caught sight of the reflection in the rear view mirror, locking eyes with the individual seated beside the driver. Swiftly averting his gaze, Zoro made the decision to simply shut his eyes tight.

Despite feeling exhausted, Zoro refuses to let his remaining energy go to waste. He thought maybe he'd just walk the remaining distance to his home. They just finished another kendo tournament, and it was a blast. The tournament served as a much-needed distraction. It somehow helped him to divert his attention from the non-stop thinking of someone—someone he wishes to forget, even just for a little bit.

The car pulled over on the side of the dimly lit street. Opening the back seat, Zoro emerged, stepping out of the car. Expressing his gratitude, "Thanks for the ride," he said to the driver, who happens to be his kendo instructor.

The window on the driver's seat remained rolled open, and a woman's voice was heard. Expressing her genuine concern, "Are you sure you want us to drop you here? Let's just bring you to your house." She spoke softly. It's Kuina, his childhood friend.

Zoro adjusted the strap of his bag and the waistband where his three swords were hanging. "Nah. It's alright. I wanted to take a walk too," Zoro replied, giving a faint smile.

"But it's too cold, and you know, you might get lost," Kuina said hesitantly, not wanting to offend Zoro. Knowing Zoro's temper, she just doesn't want to piss him off.

Both Kuina and her dad gave Zoro a concerned look, which he immediately dismissed by reassuring them. "I won't get lost. My house is just over there. Plus, its just cold, I don't mind it." he said as he pointed towards the next three posts from their current location.

"Okay. If you say so. Good night Zoro." Kuina gave his father a look of worry, then turned her gaze at Zoro.

"Good night. Drive safe. Thanks again," Zoro replied as he bowed and gave them a little wave.

As the car gradually drove away, Zoro strolled leisurely along the street, exhaling into his palm to warm it up while the chilly breeze caressed his face. With narrowed eyes, looking back and forth, this is the fifth time that he has passed by this lamp post.

Getting a little pissed at his own stupidity, he walked once more, looking intently at every house. Zoro noticed a tiny light blinking, just a few paces from his current position. Resting his hand on top of his swords, he decided to follow light, almost like leading him somewhere. Looking at his surroundings, he finally recognized the signage that reminded him that his house was just over there, on the next corner.

With an unhurried pace, he walked along the pebbled path, causing the faint sound of small stones colliding to resonate in the quiet of the night. As he carefully placed each step, his gaze fixated on the mesmerizing sight of the full moon. Its radiant brilliance illuminated the sky above while simultaneously casting a soft, subdued glow on the ground.

Zoro came to a halt in front of his unit, taking great care to loosen the waistband and secure his swords. With a delicate touch, he temporarily placed them on the vacant table positioned near the entrance.

As the keys jiggle, Zoro can't help but take a look at his phone, which has been vibrating non-stop inside his backpack. "Who the hell is calling me this late?"

He quickly removed one side of the backpack from his shoulder and put it to the side so he could reach the zipper. Just as he was about to reach the zipper using his other hand, the vibration suddenly stopped.