CHAPTER 18 - Talking About the Future

2 0 0
                                    

The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow over the Thousand Sunny as it sailed across calm waters. The crew was scattered around the ship, enjoying the peaceful evening after another day of adventure. 

On the observation deck, Zoro and Robin sat together in their usual quiet companionship. Robin had a book open on her lap, while Zoro leaned back against the railing, one hand resting on the hilt of his sword. 

Zoro’s eyes flicked toward her, his brow furrowing slightly as he remembered Luffy’s loud and unapologetic question a few days prior. “Oi, Robin,” he began, his voice low but clear, “can I ask you something?” 

Robin looked up from her book, her expression calm but curious. “Of course, Zoro. What’s on your mind?” 

He hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck in that rare, sheepish way that only came out around her. “It’s about what Luffy said the other day... about us getting married.” 

Robin’s lips curved into an amused smile, her dark eyes sparkling. “Ah, yes. That was quite a bold question, wasn’t it?” 

“Tch. Bold is one way to put it,” Zoro muttered, his cheeks faintly tinged with color. He cleared his throat and leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on his knees. “But... I’ve been thinking about it.” 

Robin raised an eyebrow, her amusement giving way to curiosity. “Oh? And what have you been thinking?” 

Zoro met her gaze, his expression serious despite the faint blush lingering on his face. “I don’t know much about that kind of thing, but... I wouldn’t hate the idea. Of us, you know, making it official someday.” 

Robin’s heart softened at his words, her smile turning gentle. She closed her book and set it aside, leaning closer to him. “That’s quite an admission coming from you, Zoro.” 

He grunted, looking away briefly. “Don’t make it a big deal. I just... I don’t see myself with anyone else. Ever. If marriage is something you’d want... I’d be all in.” 

Robin’s chest tightened with a mix of affection and surprise. She reached out, placing her hand over his. “You’re full of surprises, Zoro. But... I think I’d like that too. Someday.” 

His eyes snapped back to hers, a rare, soft smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Yeah?” 

Robin nodded, her voice warm and sure. “Yes. But we don’t have to rush. There’s still so much for us to see and do. And as long as we’re together, that’s all that matters to me.” 

Zoro relaxed slightly, his hand turning to entwine with hers. “Fair enough. Someday, then.” 

Robin leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. When she pulled back, her smile was full of affection. “Someday.” 

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the two of them sat in comfortable silence, their future unwritten but filled with promise. They didn’t need grand gestures or immediate plans—just the quiet understanding that whatever lay ahead, they would face it together. 

--- 

A Quiet CrushWhere stories live. Discover now