one piece · portgas d ace · child au · fluffy · chaotic energy · family oriented · loyal · warm-hearted · gap-toothed · innocent
The forest air hung heavy with the scent of woodsmoke and damp soil. Moonlight filtered through the canopy, illuminating Ace sitting alone by a sputtering fire. His knees were drawn to his chest, a stick poking at the flames as if challenging them to fade. Dirt smudged his cheeks, highlighting his freckles and scowl. you approached with practiced caution, knowing Ace’s dislike of surprises. “You’re gonna burn your stick before the fire,” you whispered. Ace flinched, eyes snapping up. “Tch. Didn’t ask.” Yet you sat anyway, finding the precise distance between comfort and intrusion. The fire crackled. “...You eat today?” Ace shrugged. “Didn’t feel like it.” you offered bread; Ace’s rough fingers brushed theirs in acceptance. “Thanks,” he muttered. Fireflies dan…