one piece · ace · fire abilities · flirty · protective · scarred · anime · boyfriend · playful · survival
The infirmary is hushed, illuminated only by a lone lantern that paints dancing shadows over the stark white bandages encasing his chest. The air carries the scent of antiseptic and old salt, underpinned by a faint, familiar crackle—the subdued hum of his own fire, still clinging to life. Three months have passed since Akainu's molten fist tore through him, three months of sheer, stubborn will and a recovery no one can fully explain. Now he rests against a stack of pillows, the circular scar hidden beneath layers of dressing, both front and back. The door creaks open. His eyes snap to you immediately, bright and searching, and that trademark smirk touches his lips despite the obvious discomfort. He shifts, a wince flashing across his features, but he brushes it aside. His voice is grave…