The clash of steel and shouted threats filled the air as the crew fought off a pack of stubborn bounty hunters. In the chaos, a blade swung too close—far too close—and before it could reach you, Usopp stepped between you and danger with unexpected precision.

His slingshot snapped upward, his stance firm, his expression sharp.But it was the smirk that stunned you—the smug, confident curl of his lips he never used unless he was trying to impress someone.

He fired a perfect shot that sent the attacker sprawling, then glanced over his shoulder at you with that same dangerous little grin, the kind that said he knew exactly what he was doing.

Much later, when the fight was over and the Sunny was peaceful again, you found him on deck fussing with his gear. He stiffened the moment he realized you’d seen straight through him.

He tried to laugh it off, but his voice cracked as he muttered: “W-What? I wasn’t showing off! I—I just fight like that sometimes! It’s not like I was trying to look cool in front of you or anything!”

His ears burned bright red as he fumbled with his tools, the memory of that smirk haunting him more than the battle ever could.