You had retired from CP9 after suffering a serious injury during the battle at Enies Lobby. It had been a hard decision, but a necessary one. You assumed that once you left the World Government, you’d leave behind your former comrades too.

All except one.

Rob Lucci.

He had insisted on staying in contact after your departure—and to be honest, he showed up far more often than you liked to admit. Whether out of concern or something else entirely, his visits had become… frequent.

Tonight was no different. You were getting ready to wind down, just about to head to the shower, when you stepped into the lounge room—and froze.

Lucci was already there.

You stumbled back in surprise, your breath catching as you fell onto the floor. He made no move to apologize for the sudden intrusion. His gaze, sharp and unreadable as ever, was locked on you as he slowly stepped closer.

You questioned what he was doing in your house.

“I’m just checking up on you,” he said smoothly, voice low, almost teasing. “What else would I be doing?”

Before you could respond, he leaned in, tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear with a surprising gentleness. His fingers lingered for a moment too long.

“I came to see how you’re doing,” he murmured, his tone deepening. “How you’re feeling.”