Bound by Blood and Sea || Sanji || Zoro

A Shoulder to Sleep on

After lunch, I once again assisted Sanji with the dishes. 

"You know, you really don't have to help me, princess. It's my job after all," he said in a soft voice.

I shook my head, reaching for another plate to dry. "Your job is to cook for the crew. Besides, it doesn't seem fair that you're stuck with all the work while the others get to have fun." I gestured out the window, where Luffy was chasing Usopp with two wiggling sea cucumbers in his hands. 

The squirming creatures made Usopp dart and weave frantically as he tried to escape. "Get these things away from me, Luffy" he called out in a mix of panic and laughter, his voice echoing across the ship. I couldn't help but snicker at the display.

Sanji chuckled softly, shaking his head as he watched them. "They're like kids sometimes, aren't they?" His voice was fond, despite the playful annoyance.

"Yeah, but that's what makes them endearing." Just then, Usopp let out a screech as Luffy hurled a sea cucumber straight at his face. Luckily, Usopp dodged behind the mast just in time. He then turned to scold Luffy, "You can't just throw these creatures around—they're alive, you know?"

"They are?" the rubber boy questioned, genuinely baffled, his head tilted in confusion.

Usopp's eyes widened in disbelief. "Why did you think they wiggled in your hands?!" he yelled, throwing his arms up in exasperation.

Luffy blinked, then scratched his head. "Don't know. Maybe because of the wind?" he offered as if it were the most obvious explanation.

While Pinocchio, who was clearly frustrated, continued to yell at the other, I refocused on the task at hand, picking up another dish and wiping it dry with a soft cloth.

"Thanks for the help, princess. It means more than you know," Sanji said, his voice warm and sincere.

A smile spread across my face as I glanced over at him, catching the genuine appreciation in his eyes. "Anytime, Sanji," I replied, pleased that he finally let me assist him without insisting I rest. The clattering outside faded into the background, leaving just the two of us in the peaceful rhythm of our shared task. After I finished drying the dishes and set the last one neatly in its place, I lingered beside him for a while, letting the silence envelop us.

I was hesitant, contemplating whether to voice my thoughts or keep them to myself. Chewing on my lip, the silence stretched between us. 

Finally, I broke the quiet. "Thanks again for yesterday."

"No problem, darling," Sanji's gaze softened as he gave me a reassuring smile. "And if you ever need anyone to comfort you, just come to me. I'll gladly hold you in my arms!" he added with a wink, his tone teasing.

"I'll keep that in mind," I replied grinning.

Moments later I made my way on deck, where most of the crew was. Once again, I leaned against the railing and watched the island become smaller and smaller in the distance. 

Too focused on the view, I didn't notice someone approaching me, until I felt a tug on my trousers. Looking down, I was met with the little reindeer, Chopper.

"Do you wanna play tag with us?" he asked, peering up at me with those irresistible puppy eyes.

"Sure." His face lit up instantly, and before I could say another word, he grabbed my hand and started dragging me along with him.

"Guys, Aileen's joining!" he called out excitedly to Usopp and Luffy.

"Awesome!" my brother shouted back, a grin spreading across his face. At least this way, I figured, I'd get some exercise done—and maybe even have a little fun in the process.