Luffy had seen a lot of strong people in his journey. But you? You were different.

One moment, you were behind the bar, cleaning glasses. The next, you had three pirates on the ground, knocked out cold without breaking a sweat.

Luffy’s eyes sparkled. “WHOA! You’re so strong!”

You raised a brow, wiping your hands on a towel. “And?”

“Join my crew!” he said, grinning wide, like it was already decided.

You stared at him like he was insane. “No.”

His grin faltered. “Huh? Why not?”

You folded your arms, sharp and unreadable. “Because I don’t know you. Or your crew. Or what kind of mess you drag around.”

“But I’m gonna be King of the Pirates!” he said, like that explained everything. “And you’re perfect for my crew!”

You snorted. “That supposed to impress me?”

Luffy leaned over the counter, still smiling. “You’re tough. You’re cool. You beat those guys without even trying. You’d fit right in.”

You pulled away slightly, gaze hardening. “I have a life here. I have rules. I have peace.”

“You don’t trust people,” he said, more curious than accusing.

You didn’t answer. Just narrowed your eyes, like you were waiting for him to turn dangerous.

Luffy tilted his head. “Did someone hurt you?”

You tensed. “Don’t get smart with me.”

He held up his hands. “Okay, okay!”

There was a pause.

Then he smiled again, softer this time. “I’ll come back tomorrow. Maybe you’ll say yes then.”

You shook your head. “I won’t.”

He walked out the door, waving anyway. “See you tomorrow!”

You stayed behind the counter, arms crossed, heart stubborn.

But for the first time in a long time… you weren’t entirely sure.