Dawn began to peek over the horizon. The aroma of brewing coffee filled the air. Sanji was focused on ensuring everything was perfect before Luffy could wake up and cause his usual chaos.
As he whisked some eggs and checked the oven, Sanji suddenly felt a familiar presence behind him. Before he could turn around, strong arms wrapped around his waist, pulling him close. He sighed, recognizing Zoro's touch instantly.
"Can't you wait until breakfast is ready, Marimo?" Sanji murmured.
A contented hum came from the swordsman. He leaned in closer, planting a soft kiss just below his ear on that love bite.
"Someone's in a good mood this morning," Sanji teased, cracking an egg into the skillet.
Zoro's lips curled into a mischievous grin as he leaned closer to whisper in Sanji's ear. "Can you blame me? That dessert last night was sweeter than any you'll ever bake."
A shiver ran down Sanji's spine, but he kept his focus on the task at hand. "If you keep distracting me, breakfast will burn, and Luffy will be even more unbearable than usual."
Zoro chuckled quietly, his hands roaming over Sanji's torso in lazy circles. "Just a quick bite, then," he teased, lips brushing against Sanji's skin.
Sanji let out a soft sigh, momentarily closing his eyes as he leaned back into Zoro's embrace. "You really need to work on your timing, Marimo. Luffy will be here any second, and—"
Zoro cut him off, his voice a low, rumbling purr. "What, you afraid the others will find out how much you love it when I get close?"Sanji turned slightly in Zoro's arms, just enough to face him. "You really are stubborn."
Zoro's grin only widened. "Not like you're any better, cook. The way you were begging last—" Before Zoro could finish, Sanji whirled around, a wooden spoon in hand, his face a mix of embarrassment and irritation.
"OUT!!!!" he barked, pointing the spoon at the door.
Zoro laughed as he stepped back, hands raised in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. I'll let you get back to your precious breakfast." He paused at the doorway. "But don't think this conversation is over."
•゚。
Out of the kitchen, the swordsman is still grinning to himself. His good mood was more than just a product of last night's passion; it stemmed from the joy of having Asahi back safe and sound.
He made his way through the ship, searching for Robin and Asahi. He found them on the deck. Robin was kneeling beside Asahi, helping him brush his teeth with the gentleness and care she always showed.
Zoro approached quietly. "Morning."
Robin looked up and smiled. "Good morning. Just finishing up with Asahi here."
Asahi turned, a frothy smile spreading across his small face. "Daddy!" he exclaimed, the excitement clear even with the toothbrush still in his mouth.
Zoro crouched down to his son's level. "How was the sleepover with the girls?" he asked, ruffling Asahi's hair.
Asahi bubbled with excitement as he tried to speak around his toothbrush. "Good! Auntie Wobin's hewping me!"
Robin chuckled softly and stood up. "He's all yours now. Just make sure he rinses properly." As Robin walked away, Zoro turned back to Asahi, watching as he finished brushing his teeth. After ensuring his son rinsed thoroughly, Zoro asked. "You hungry?"
Asahi's eyes lit up. "Yes!"
"Me too." Zoro agreed, taking Asahi toward the kitchen. As they entered, Sanji glanced over and smiled at the sight of Zoro and Asahi. "Morning, Asahi. You ready for some breakfast?" Asahi nodded enthusiastically.