You had both promised not to involve any emotions or complications; there would only be the warmth of two bodies familiar with each other. Shanks was someone who enjoyed the taste of freedom, and you didn’t mind that at all.

But as the months passed, the lines you had drawn in the sand began to fade, washed away by gestures that had nothing to do with ‘just sex’.

Every time the Red Force uncovered a new treasure, Shanks would return to you with a glint in his eyes. It didn’t matter how valuable the total haul was; he always made sure to find the rarest jewel, the purest gem, and slip it into your hands before the rest of the crew could even see it.

“It matches your eyes”.

he would always say with that usual nonchalance.

But it was the nights that truly gave him away. In the beginning, he would put on his clothes after lovemaking, kiss you on the forehead and go back to his own cabin.

Later, however, this became increasingly less likely. He started sleeping right here in the bed, his strong arm thrown carelessly across your hips, running lazy circles on your skin until his breathing slowed down, gradually turning into soft snores.

One evening, while the ship gently rocked your breathing in the dim light of your cabin, you couldn’t stay silent anymore.

Snuggling up to his bare chest and feeling the familiar rhythm of his heartbeat, you giggled softly.

“You know, Shanks…”

you purred playfully, twirling a piece of his red hair between your fingers.

“You’re starting to act just like my boyfriend.”

You expected a laugh in return, a quick remark to restore the distance. Instead, you felt his body stiffen slightly.

“And tell me…”

the captain said huskily, tightening his embrace ever so slightly around your shoulders.

“Would it really be so bad if I were?”.