The Last One (One Piece x Reader)

Chapter 3: A bit too smart

Smoker had underestimated you when you said you were the best. Now, watching you take down every soldier in your unit effortlessly, barely breaking a sweat, he wonders if you're even human.

But as much as your power intimidates him, he can't help but notice how much you enjoy fighting. It's terrifying and adorable at the same time. If he ever chooses to spar with you, it'll definitely be in private-he's not keen on public humiliation.

As he watches your relentless strength, a troubling thought crosses his mind. At this level of power, you should be in a much higher position. His eyes narrow. Perhaps even higher than his. The power you're displaying isn't something he has. It's as if you were born for something greater.

"Hina is impressed. (Y/N)-san is so strong. Even stronger than us," Hina breathes out in astonishment, watching you alongside many other Marines. Smoker crosses his arms over his chest.

"With that kind of skill, she shouldn't be here this long," Smoker states, his tone low. Hina's eyes widen in shock.

"Smoker, don't joke around like that. What you're suggesting is a crime," Hina warns, her voice filled with concern. Smoker's eyes land on a familiar lieutenant, who is watching you intently, his expression anything but kind.

Smoker's eyes narrow further.

"(Y/N) has been in this unit for four months already. He's never sent her on a proper mission. One that's suitable for her abilities. He's trying to keep her name from getting out of his territory," Smoker mutters, his tone dark.

Hina's eyes flicker with understanding as she follows Smoker's gaze to the lieutenant. "You think he's deliberately holding her back?"

Smoker's jaw tightens, his expression hardening as he watches the lieutenant's calculating stare. "He's not just holding her back. He's burying her potential, ensuring she doesn't surpass him."

Hina considers this, then glances back at you, a smile creeping onto her lips. "Hina believes (Y/N) is aware of it, Smoker. She doesn't seem like someone who'd be oblivious to this sort of thing."

Smoker looks back at you, contemplating. "You think?"

Hina nods. "Yes."

As the sparring session ends, you stand victorious among your peers, a satisfied smile on your face. Smoker watches as the lieutenant approaches you, offering what appears to be a congratulatory pat on the back. But Smoker notices the underlying tension in the man's body language.

You exchange a few words with the lieutenant, your tone light but your eyes sharp. Then, as if sensing Smoker's gaze on you, you turn and meet his eyes. The two of you lock stares, and the next thing you do astonishes him.

You place a finger to your lips in a shushing motion, your eyes gleaming with a hint of menace. The message is clear: you know exactly what you're doing, and you're playing the game on your terms.

•••••

The day finally comes to a close, and you make sure to avoid Smoker. He's too perceptive for his own good, catching onto things faster than you expected.