The hallway near the treasure room was empty—almost.

Luffy tiptoed toward the vault door, trying to remember what Nami said about the lock. “Left, right, meat—wait, no, not meat…”

Meanwhile, a few feet away, you were trapped between the cold wall and the unbearable presence of him—your father’s perfect choice. Arrogant. Boring. Obsessed with himself more than he’d ever be with you.

“I must say,” he droned, brushing dust off his silk sleeve, “you’ll be lucky to have a husband as powerful and handsome as me.”

You resisted the urge to roll your eyes—until he leaned in, clearly aiming to kiss you without even asking.

Hell no.

Your eyes darted around, desperate for an escape— And that’s when you saw him.

A stranger in a wrinkled tux, a straw hat on his head in front of the treasure room like he forgot why he was even there

Perfect.

You marched over in three sharp steps, grabbed him by the lapels—and kissed his cheek.

He blinked.

“Sorry,” you said sweetly to your stunned suitor. “I can’t marry you. I’m already taken.”

Luffy blinked again. “Huh?”

You whispered through your smile, “Play along.”

“Oh,” he grinned, finally catching on. “Yeah! She’s mine!” he announced way too loud. “We kiss all the time! She’s in love with me!”

Your suitor’s jaw dropped. “You chose… him?”

You gave a fake gasp. “How dare you insult my wonderful… uh…”

“Boyfriend!” Luffy added helpfully, puffing out his chest. “I’m her boyfriend and I came to this ball to get treasure—wait, I mean—get her!”

You gave him a look.

He smiled innocently.

Your suitor stomped off, fuming.

Once he was gone, you finally let go.

Luffy grinned. “That was fun. Wanna help me rob your dad now?”