A Quiet Crush

CHAPTER 2:

Days turned into weeks, and Zoro's small gestures toward Robin became a comforting part of the crew's routine. Though he never admitted his feelings aloud, his actions spoke volumes. He'd offer to carry her books without a word, save her a spot during meals, or simply stay close during their adventures, as if keeping her in his sight gave him peace of mind.

Robin noticed everything, of course. She always did. She appreciated Zoro's quiet protectiveness and his subtle ways of showing he cared. It was unlike the loud, boisterous energy of the rest of the crew. Zoro's silence was steady and reassuring-a quiet promise she found herself looking forward to each day.

One evening, while the crew celebrated a successful raid, Zoro slipped away from the lively party on the deck. He found his usual spot near the bow of the Sunny and sat down, the stars reflecting on the calm water below.

"You're missing the fun."

Robin's voice startled him. He glanced over his shoulder to see her approaching, a soft smile playing on her lips. She held two cups of tea, offering one to him.

"Not really my thing," Zoro replied, taking the cup.

Robin sat beside him, her presence gentle yet grounding. They sipped their tea in comfortable silence, the sounds of laughter and music fading into the background.

"You seem troubled," Robin said after a while, her gaze fixed on the horizon. "Is something on your mind?"

Zoro hesitated. He wasn't one to talk about his feelings, let alone the confusing ones swirling in his chest. But Robin's voice had a way of easing his guard.

"Not troubled," he finally said. "Just... thinking."

Robin tilted her head, her dark eyes curious. "That's rare for you."

Zoro smirked. "Very funny."

Her laugh was soft, like the rustling of leaves. "I'm serious. What's been keeping you so distracted lately?"

He looked down at his tea, the words tangled in his throat. For a swordsman who could face any foe without flinching, admitting his feelings to Robin felt like the hardest battle of all.

"I guess..." He exhaled sharply. "I've been trying to figure something out."

Robin's smile softened. "You don't have to tell me if you're not ready. I'll wait."

The simplicity of her words struck him. No pressure, no teasing-just quiet understanding. He turned to look at her, the moonlight casting a soft glow on her features.

"Robin," he began, his voice steady despite the rapid thumping in his chest, "you're... different from anyone I've met. Calm, smart, strong. You don't need anyone to protect you, but... I can't stop wanting to."

Robin's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing her face. Zoro held his breath, unsure of what her reaction would be.

Then, she smiled-a gentle, genuine smile that made his heart feel lighter.

"Thank you, Zoro," she said softly. "That means more to me than you know."

For the first time in a long while, Zoro felt a sense of relief, as if a weight he didn't realize he carried had been lifted. Robin placed a hand on his arm, her touch light but reassuring.

"And for the record," she added, her tone teasing, "I don't mind if you want to keep protecting me. It's... nice."

Zoro chuckled, the tension easing from his shoulders. "Good. Because I wasn't planning on stopping."

The two of them stayed there for a while longer, sharing the quiet night under the stars. Though no grand confessions were made, the understanding between them was clear-an unspoken bond that would only grow stronger with time.