In the crow's nest, far removed from the echoes of their recent ordeal at Thriller Bark, Zoro lay in quiet rest, his usually stern features softened in the moonlight. The battles fought, the pain endured, and the sacrifices made lingered like shadows.
The night air was cool as Robin made her way up to the crow's nest, expecting to find Zoro immersed in his usual late-night workout against Chopper's wishes. Instead, she was met with an unexpected sight: Zoro, lying in their usual spot, eyes closed, seemingly at peace. For a moment, she paused, taking in the serene picture he made against the backdrop of the night sky.
"Keeping a close watch on the inside of your eyelids, I see," Robin finally commented, her voice laced with amusement as she climbed into the nest.
Zoro's lips twitched into a smile at her words, his eyes fluttering open to meet hers. "I thought you wanted me to rest. It's been a quiet night so far," he replied, his voice low and relaxed.
Robin settled beside him, drawing her knees up to her chest. "A rare moment of quiet on the Grand Line. We should enjoy it while it lasts," she mused, gazing out at the starlit sky.
Zoro's voice was gentle, inviting her closer. "You don't have to keep your distance, Robin. Chopper said I'm getting better so you won't hurt me," he teased lightly, his open arms a silent beckoning.
With a small, understanding smile, Robin shifted, carefully laying down beside him, her head finding its usual place on his chest. The warmth between them was familiar, comforting. "Just making sure," she whispered, allowing herself to fully relax into his embrace.
Feeling her settle in, Zoro draped a blanket over them, his arm securing her close as he began to softly trace patterns on her back. "I'm more than okay, especially now," he assured her.
In the brief silence that followed Zoro's assurance, Robin felt the gentle rise and fall of his chest, the rhythm as soothing as the sea itself. She shifted slightly, drawing the blanket tighter around them, basking in the warmth they shared. "Zoro," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, capturing his attention.
"Hmm?" Zoro responded, his hand pausing in its soft exploration of her back.
Robin lifted her head slightly, meeting his gaze. "Thank you," she said simply, her eyes conveying a depth of gratitude for the moment, for the safety, and for the undeniable strength of their bond. The moonlight filtering through the crow's nest window cast a soft glow on her face, highlighting the sincerity in her expression.
Zoro searched her face, reading the unspoken feelings that danced in her eyes. In response, he lifted his hand from her back, gently cradling her face. "For what?" he asked, though he felt he already knew the answer.
"For not leaving and for being here, with me. For making nights like this possible," Robin answered, leaning into his touch. The warmth of his palm was a comfort, a silent promise of his presence, his protection.
Zoro's smile deepened, reaching his eyes. "You know that I'll do anything for you," he softly stated, the sincerity in his voice evident. Leaning forward, he brushed a tender kiss on her lips. "I needed that," he murmured, his breath mingling with hers.
Robin's heart filled with an indescribable blend of affection and joy. She reached up, her fingers gently caressing the back of Zoro's head, drawing him back for a sweet, lingering kiss that spoke volumes of their deep connection.
Zoro adjusted their position slightly, ensuring Robin was now comfortable on top of him, his hands resting on her hips as they deepened the kiss.
Moments later, they breathlessly separated with soft smiles. Robin nestled back against Zoro's chest, enveloped in the security of his embrace. Zoro's arms encircled Robin, his hold a silent vow of his presence and protection.
YOU ARE READING
Adventures of the Roronoa Family
FanfictionExplore a captivating series of one shots featuring Roronoa Zoro and Nico Robin. Each story delves into their unique relationship and family dynamics, with occasional appearances from other Straw Hats. In no particular order, these stories will disp...