Picture Perfect (Zoro x Reader)

Chapter 2: Hunting

You stood in the middle of the woods of an uncharted island, mere feet away from one of the most notorious murderers of your era... with nothing but a camera between you two.

Your thoughts raced through a million possibilities – the words you say next could be the distinguishing factor between life or death.

Hesitantly, you managed to squeeze out a question, "Why are you here?"

But Zoro did not reply. In a swift motion, his reached for the hilt of his sword. The sound of the metal unsheathing meant certain death for you, someone with virtually no combat experience. Your thoughts quieted as you closed your eyes and braced for impact.

Suddenly, a shrill cry pierced the air, followed by a loud thud.

Frozen for a moment, you slowly gathered that the sound originated from behind you. Your eyes shot open, and you turned around to witness an astonishing scene — a colossal lizard-like creature, neatly cleaved in half, lay before you.

"What the hell was what?" you turned to Zoro, bewilderment etched across your face. "A dinosaur?" Zoro cleaned his sword with a single flick before sheathing it.

"That's my dinner," he shrugged.

You grabbed your camera, your hands slightly trembling as you clicked a few photos of the animal carcass. You debated if this was enough info for your mission. At the very least, the existence of these creatures would explain the disappearances of the past venturers. 

You glanced at your watch. There were still a couple hours until sundown, and if you hurried, you could make it to the village in time. You made it this far, so there was no backing down now.

"Hey," you gulped, "thanks for saving my life..."

"Don't worry, I was hungry." he quickly interjected.

You weren't sure if he was joking. There is a moment of silence, but you continue your original train of thought. "I assumed you were an evil pirate based off your reputation," you admitted, "but now I'm questioning everything I heard."

Zoro already had his back turned towards you as he began slicing the lizard meat.

"I..." you stopped to admire how broad his back was. You were too panicked to notice it before, but you can see his muscles ripple through the fabric of his blue sleeveless top, as he skillfully separates the meat from the scales. You snap out of it and finish your sentence, "I will get going now."

Zoro nodded.

You unwillingly found yourself disappointed at his lack of response. Were you hoping he would ask you to stay? Nevertheless, you already made your decision, so you pick up your bag and glance at the path ahead.

Before you take a step further, you turn back to Zoro one last time.

"I can trust you right?" you blurt out.

"That's your decision," he replies, unfazed.