#might write a part two of zoro meeting perona | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

shikkearu · 5 years

Text

Irreplaceable Part 20: It’s not a date!

wattpad AO3 Zoro was grabbing onto his mother's leg. She was making something on the counter, but he could not see and he really needed to know what was going on, but she refused to hold him so this was the second best option. He took a good hold and bounced up and down trying to get a better view. He stopped when Mommy looked down at him. He grinned, but it soon vanished when Mommy frowned at him. He opened his hands letting go of the fabric of her pants. He kept looking up and gently held her leg. She sighed, but smiled lightly before continuing what she was doing. Zoro accepted, that he could not see what she was doing, so he tried his best to listen instead. It was more boring, but could not be helped. His concentration broke when he heard the out door make a noise and he just had to go take a look. He peeked behind the corner and saw his grandfather taking off his jacket. He ran towards him joyfully calling his name:

- "Pappa! Pappa! Pappa!"

Before Mihawk could even react Zoro had grasped onto his leg and was bouncing up and down. He looked at the toddler and smiled surprised. He knelt down to inspect what he was wearing.

- "So you're a panda today?" He asked as he lifted up the hood of his jumpsuit. - "Panda." Zoro repeated and grabbed onto Pappas hand. "Up." Came a small demand. - "Sorry, not right now." He rose away from him.

Zoro pouted and looked at what Pappa was doing. He was taking something out of his bag and gave it to him.

- "Pappa bought you a new puzzle. This one has a tiger in it." He pointed at a picture of a tiger on the package. - "Tigel!" Zoro squealed happily. - "Go show Mommy what you got." Mihawk turned him to face the kitchen.

Zoro started to run excited holding onto the precious box. Midway he stumbled and fell on his face. He stayed down a bit and Mihawk looked at him worried. Finally he rose up. He sniveled a bit and looked at Pappa who was smiling encouragingly. Zoro grinned and a tear fell on his cheek. This time he walked carefully to his mother.

- "Mommy, look! Look! Tigel!" He waved the puzzle box in his hands. - "That's so great, Zoro." Perona smiled, but then looked a bit worried. "Did you fall on your way here?"

Zoro lowered the box and let his mother take a look. His nose was red and eyes too. Perona blew on his nose and kissed it.

- "There, all better." She smiled sweetly. "Let me open that for you."

Zoro was happy that Mommy had taken the hurt away, so of course she could take the treasure from him. Mommy removed a layer of shiny off of the box and then opened it. She took a puzzle out and removed a layer of shiny out of that too. She took hold of Zoros hand and moved him a bit further away so he wouldn't be on her way.

- "There you go."

She held out the new puzzle and Zoro was ecstatic. He dropped all the pieces on the floor and started to play with it. He solved the tiger one first, then a giraffe, an elephant, a zebra and a monkey. Once he was done he showed the puzzle to Mommy.

- "Well done, Zoro."

Getting praise from Mommy warmed Zoros heart so so much. He just had to redo the puzzle again.

Mihawk walked in the room and looked pleased as Zoro was busy with his puzzle. He turned to Perona and sniffed her cooking.

- "Smells good." - "It's going to be good." She huffed. - "Did you make Zoros onesie?" - "It's so cute on him, isn't it." Her eyes sparkled of excitement as she quickly looked at Zoro and then Mihawk. - "At first I thought it was store bought." - "Aww, you!" She was happy and kicked his shin softly.

Mihawk hummed amused and went to sit by the table. Perona was certain he quickly looked at her with such warmth, it should not be possible for him. She glanced at him quickly to see him looking at Zoro play. Maybe it had been a figment of her imagination. Her phone buzzed on the table and she dashed to look. It was from Chiffon, which slightly disappointed her. Law had not messaged her back and it was April already. She had tried to send him messages to explain herself, but he just did not answer. She sighed and checked what Chiffon had written.

- "Chiffon wants to go to an Easter event with me and Zoro." - "That sounds nice, you should go." - "Will you drive us there?"

Mihawk frowned a little. Perona was more than capable of driving herself, but she wasn't that keen on taking the initiative. She was still slightly scared of driving.

- "Maybe you should. I think it would be nice to get some alone time for myself." - "Gross pervert." - "Nothing like that." Mihawk grumbled. "I was thinking of updating the photo albums." - "And then be a gross pervert." Perona sneered.

Mihawk could only sigh.

----

The room was nearly dark only lit by the light from the TV. Perona and Mihawk were watching a movie together, as Zoro was already sleeping. She was craving to be touched, but it would not do to cuddle with Mihawk since she was already thinking of her husband. At these moments she would have cuddled with him. Not that Mihawk wasn't nice and all, just-

She stopped her thought. What the hell was she thinking? Of course she shouldn't be cuddling with her father-in-law. He was just warm and nice because they were family.

Perona huffed which caught Mihawks attention.

- "Is the movie bad?" - "No. I was just thinking on stuff." - "Hmm. Zoros birthday is near, isn't it?" - "May 11th." - "It's pretty close." He grinned. "I can't wait to make his cake." - "It's still a month away." She groaned. - "Aren't you a little bit excited?" He nudged her side with his knuckles.

Perona didn't answer. She really wasn't, but she shouldn't say that. She wasn't really that excited of anything. Not the summer, the potential schools or anything. Even thinking of Zoros coming milestones only made her feel sick. But saying so would only worry Mihawk.

- "Well a little." She sighed.

Mihawk chuckled and ruffled her hair. He rose from the sofa.

- "I can't watch trash like this sober." - "Well then don't. I'd rather have you not drink at all."

They stared at each other. Mihawk looked like he might consider sitting back down, but still went to get himself a glass of wine. Perona frowned disappointed and checked her phone. She was amazed to find a message from Law.

- "It's been awhile. I was angry at you, as I thought we had put that back into the past, but since then I've been thinking. I have no excuse for what I did back then and I wish that you can trust me like a friend in the future." - "It's alright. I think it would have kept nagging between us if I didn't say anything." - "Maybe. Have you heard anything from the schools." - "Two invitations." - "That's amazing! Does it mean we can't see each other? That you'll be busy studying?" - "There's no tests, just hearings."

- "And you're texting. See, I need this." Mihawk came in chuckling and Perona fumbled a bit with her cellphone nearly dropping it. She gave him an angry look.

- "You gave me a fright!"

Mihawk sat down and sneered:

- "I wonder what kind of naughty thing you were writing to have such bad conscience."

Perona snarled at him as he smugly took a sip of his wine. She then turned her attention back to her phone.

- "I guess we could meet up." - "That would be great." - "Some place like a cafe." - "Anything goes."

- "If you're just going to be texting, go somewhere else and let me have the sofa."

Mihawk poked her leg with his and lifted it on the sofa. She glared at him. It had been her idea to watch this movie. Defiantly he looked straight into her eyes and took a sip of his wine. This annoyed her a great deal. She grabbed onto his leg and pulled it on her lap.

- "Now you've got all the space and I won't need to leave. Happy?" She huffed angrily and set her phone aside.

Mihawk didn't reply, but placed his other foot on her lap too. He looked at her for a moment and then set his wineglass aside. Perona was getting pulled back into the movie and without thinking she started to gently pet Mihawks legs.

She felt a warm pair of eyes on her and she turned to look at Mihawk, but he was watching the movie.

It had been so weird lately.

Maybe it was a figment of her imagination, but she felt like he was looking at her differently. Maybe it was the way he looked at the people he loved, his family. She wasn't certain. But for some reason, those moments made her heart flutter. They made her happier.

----

Standing before the school, Perona looked at it nervous. She glanced behind her. Chiffon was there to give her strength since the hearing was in the middle of the day. Perona almost felt her knees buckle and she dashed to Chiffon. Chiffon let out a small squeak as Perona harshly glomped her.

- "It's scary I wanna go home." She whimpered. - "You've done this before remember. It's not so bad." Chiffon laughed.

Perona groaned and went to Zoro, who sat in his stroller.

- "Please give Mommy some strength."

She held her hands out and Zoro placed his hands on hers, without letting his eyes off of the stroller next to his, where sat baby Pez. They were having some weird silly face competition.

- "Uuh, I guess that's good enough." - "You can do it, Perona." Chiffon looked at her encouragingly. - "Dammit, you're right!" Perona straightened out. "I am the only one capable of making my dreams come true. Good things are just bound to happen. And even if I fail I still get to live with Zoro and Mihawk." - "That's the spirit!" Chiffon was getting fired up as well.

But in the interview, her resolution faltered.

- "Why should we take you in our school?" One of the interviewers, Bellemere, looked at her sternly. - "Ah umm." Perona felt panicky and sweated.

The early question of her background were easy to answer, but something like this... Dammit!

She had practiced this at home, but now her mind was blank. The second interviewer wrote something on their paper. Perona kept stuttering, trying to find the words.

- "Why are you passionate about sewing? Why it interests you? What makes you stand out?" Bellemere tried to help out. - "Just uh. I've always liked dressing up and I'm imaginative. I'm actually pretty head strong and won't get pushed aside. Just a bit nervous of this situation."

Perona could see Bellemere start to smile amused and realized, that she had messed up by admitting her nervousness.

- "Since you like dressing up, shouldn't you try a career that has more to do with that? Acting?"

- "No, because I also like to create. Can I show you something?"

- "Go ahead."

Perona dug her bag and lifted up her sketchbook. She also took some printed photos of the clothes she had sewn for Zoro. She also had his panda-jumpsuit with her. The interviewers looked at her assembly. They carefully looked over the jumpsuit, comparing it to the original sketch.

- "You did this?" - "Yes." - "It's actually quite good. We don't usually expect to see a portfolio, so this is a pleasant surprise." Bellemere said and wrote something on her papers. "Do you have something you might want to add?" - "No, nothing." - "Alright then I think were done here." She looked at the other interviewer who nodded. "You'll be getting notified about our decision. Thank you for coming here." - "Thank you. Good bye."

Perona stumbled outside where Chiffon was waiting with the toddlers at a nearby bench. Her hands shook as she sat down next to her.

- "How did it go?" - "Horrible." - "Well you don't know that yet." - "Uuh, I do." She covered her face with her hands.

Chiffon petted Peronas back.

- "At least it's over now." - "I still got another one to go." - "You can do it!" - "I guess. Wanna go shopping now?" - "Of course."

Perona liked going out with Chiffon. Chiffon didn't judge, was fun to be around and as a mother of a child nearly the same age as Zoro she was going through the same things. They had gotten something to eat and were sitting at a park bench. It was such a warm day. Pez started to whine and Chiffon took him up. Apparently it was feeding time. Perona always felt extremely envious of Chiffons ability to breast feed her child, something she herself had always struggled with. She had planned of doing it until Zoro was nearly three, but forcibly had to stop. It was something she would always regret. Somehow regardless of the stress or how her breasts seemingly stopped working, she should have forced herself to keep on trying. She gave Zoro his bottle, filled with the formula. He didn't really seem to dislike it anymore which was a little bit of a relief. Perona pulled her legs to her chest and side glanced at Chiffon and Pez. The two looked so perfect.

- "Does the interview still trouble you?" Chiffon asked slightly worried. - "No, no. I'm just a bit jealous that's all." - "Of what?" - "You being able to feed your child." Perona hugged her feet a bit tighter. - "Oh, I'm sorry." Chiffon knew of Peronas troubles and started to cover herself and Pez. - "Wait, no, no! Don't." Perona made her stop. "I appreciate what you're trying, but you're doing something so wonderful, I don't want to make you feel like an inconvenience."

Chiffon sighed a bit relieved and she petted Peronas back slightly.

- "I've read a study that the effect of breastfeeding isn't as big as thought. It's just that women who choose to do so tend to be more concerned of health issues." She moved down to gently look Perona in the eyes. "Just so you know, you're doing wonderful with Zoro."

Perona whimpered a silent thank you, bit her lip and started to cry. Chiffon kept on calmly petting her back.

----

Mihawk was sitting on his armchair reading a book when Perona returned with Zoro. She undressed his outdoor clothes before letting him go. Instantly he ran to Mihawk and grabbed onto his leg. Mihawk started to do the lifting they normally did, but Zoro was getting too big for it and Perona could see Mihawk straining a little bit. She sat and looked at them both. It was so bittersweet to see Zoro grow. Her eyes got wet.

- "Did it go badly?" Mihawk looked at her. He had noticed the redness of her eyes. - "No." - "Then what's the problem?" - "Zoro. You know you can't do that anymore soon." - "I might not be able to fully lift him, but I'll try as long as he wants it." - "Doesn't it make you sad, having to stop doing things because he gets too big?" - "A little, but all those nice things will get replaced by other things. I might not get to lift him like this, but I'll get to play football with him later."

Mihawk closed his eyes and smiled a little, while lifting Zoro. Finally he stopped and sighed.

- "Pappa is tired now."

This earned him a pout from Zoro, but the child did stop. He ran off to his toy box picking random assortment of colourful toys dropping them in the middle of the floor. He expectantly looked at Mihawk.

- "Play." He pointed at the toys. - "Alright." He went down on the floor with Zoro.

Perona looked on and sighed. She checked her phone.

- "I could do next Saturday at one." Read Laws message.

- "Hey Mihawk, do you have anything on Saturday?" - "No." - "Can you babysit Zoro while I'm gone?" - "Of course. What are you going to do?" - "Just a date." She quickly explained herself. "A meeting. Not a romantic date." - "Aha." Mihawk looked a bit skeptical, but kept his mouth shut. He had promised Perona not to meddle in her affairs. - "It's really not that sort of date." Perona mumbled embarrassed. - "Perona, you can do what ever you please as long as it's not damaging to anyone." - "Ah, yes, but-" - "I'm playing with Zoro right now." Mihawk cut her short. Talking about this wasn't what he wanted to do. It was stinging his heart unnecessarily.

Perona rose from the sofa to put away the rest of her things. Of course Mihawk was angry at her. She was angry at herself. This wasn't a date, she kept telling herself and Law. Not a date.

Then why did she feel so ashamed?

----

Perona was on her way to the "not-a-date". It was sunny and nice, though a bit chilly, but one didn't need to wear a jacket anymore. She stopped before her reflection on a window. A simple blouse and skinny jeans, hair on a loose bun on top of her head, with a bow and unicorn shaped cute pins. She had a small bag over her shoulder. She had put on simple make-up, so she wouldn't look like a slob. As she stared at her reflection only one thought crossed her mind:

- "I'm definitely over dressed, he'll think this is a date for sure."

She had tried her best to stay casual and she did look so to the passerby, but still she felt uncertain. But there was no turning back now, for Law would hate her if she did a last minute cancel, he was a very busy man after all. She walked slowly towards her destination and saw him wait by the door to a cafe casually looking at his cellphone listening to music. He was wearing a black long sleeved shirt, a fluffy black scarf and his typical hat. During the time they had not seen, he had grown a beard. It made her want to know what a beard would have looked like on her husband. A small sigh escaped her lips.

- "Hey." She came to him with a weak smile. "Have you waited for long?" - "No." Law tugged off his earphones and shoved them in his pocket along with his cell phone. "I didn't think you'd actually show up." He looked visibly surprised, but glad. - "Well I'm here now." - "Thank you."

Law smiled a little relieved. He was so different to the small interactions they've had in the past. Maybe he was just being shy right now or maybe that unpredictable violent side had dulled a bit with their messaging. She hoped it was the latter.

- "Uh, sorry, but you look sad." He looked a bit worried. "Is something wrong?" - "I just wondered what a beard would look like on him." - "Oh. I don't think he was the beard type of guy." - "You're probably right. Though his beard didn't grow so well yet so he preferred to shave it." - "Too young."

Perona nodded silently. He had passed on too young. There should have been more years left for them. Tears swelled in her eyes. Law lifted his hand to touch her back, but decided against it. Instead he gestured to the door.

- "Maybe we should go inside?" - "Yeah, you're right." She quickly rubbed her eyes, careful not to mess up her make-up.

After ordering their drinks they sat at a table in the corner. There was a small awkward silence between them.

- "So how have the interviews been?" - "Okay I guess. I'm probably not who they're looking for anyway." - "Probably."

Perona puffed her cheeks. He was not supposed to say something like that, but she let it pass.

- "How has your work been?" - "Busy."

Another awkward silence. This whole situation felt unbearable. Completely different from their messaging where he sounded positive and was quick to answer and keep the conversation going. Perona averted her eyes from him and took a sip of her drink. Law looked at his cup holding it with both of his hands.

- "Sorry. It's a bit easier to talk to others when not face-to-face." - "I- Yes, you're right."

Another silence. Perona looked at her bag and took her sketch book.

- "I showed them this in the interviews. They were pleasantly surprised."

Law eyed over some of her sketches and smiled a bit.

- "They're okay." - "Not just okay, but great, you ass!" - "What?"

Peronas hands flew over her mouth and Law looked at her shocked. To her shock he burst into laughter and she soon joined in.

- "Calling me an ass. What the hell?" He chuckled - "I'm sorry, you're supposed to be more supportive, stupid." - "I'm a bit of a pessimist to be honest. Don't want to get peoples hopes up so they wont be left down when they fail." - "You think I'm going to fail?" - "Definitely." - "Rude."

From there the conversation started to flow more naturally. It went into all directions and at times Law did bring up her husband and the memories he had with him. It felt so heart-warming that there were others who missed him as much as she did. Time passed rather quickly. Law persuaded Perona to let him walk her home and she finally did. They were in no rush and kept on talking. When they were at the start of her home road she stopped. Law studied her while she fidgeted slightly as she was thinking on how to express herself right to him.

- "I don't think it's a good idea to have you walk me all the way." - "Why?" - "Just- uh- I don't think my father-in-law would like it at all. He thinks this is a date." - "It's not?" - "It's not!" She cried out and blushed. "Well not in a romantic way or anything. Just two friends hanging out." - "Then there should be no problem." - "Well yeah, but still I'd rather have you not."

Perona looked down at her feet and spun her fingers. Law smirked and bend down to kiss her cheek. She squeaked surprised. Enraged she turned to chastise him, but Law was already walking off waving his hand.

- "Can't wait for the next not-a-date."

Perona blushed wildly and rubbed her cheek. The sensation that Laws kiss left her with was completely different from her husbands kisses. She felt guilty. Tears started to roll down her cheeks.

She missed her husband.

I totally know Zoro's birthday isn't in May, but on the other hand I didn't think the story would go this long. Thus the timeline is all fucked up. Sorry. ;A;

This is my first long story ever as I didn't even know I liked writing this much. I really thought I would get bored or something, as I didn't like my writing back then, but I was encouraged by people so I kept on going. I'm really grateful to them.

Now I like to re-read this and see myself getting better, when I compare the first chapters to the later ones. Also I like the story so... I've read this so many times. Most views are propably from myself. lol TwT

#MihawkxPerona #dracule mihawk #mihawk #perona #one piece #OP #onepiece #ミホペロ #Irreplaceable #fanfic

9 notes · View notes

shikkearu · 5 years

Text

Irreplaceable Part 18: Dear Valentine

Perona snorted unhappy and Mihawk chuckled. They were looking at a poor attempt of a teddy bear. Perona was practising her sewing skills like there was no tomorrow. She was anxious to try making patterns of her own and her scetch book was filling with clothes designs, but for now she was content trying out pre-made patterns. But she did still try adding her own quirks and they always didn't go according to plan, thus the horrid looking teddy bear.

- "Don't laugh at him, can't you see he's had a rough life." A fake tear escaped Peronas eye. - "Wasn't he just born?" - "Yes, but he's already been laughed at and Zoro rejected him."

Zoro turned when hearing his name, but when he saw the adults still play with the thing, he went back to his own game with the tiger he had gotten from Ace. Zoro really seemed to like tigers. If there was anything with the right kind of stripes he would happily yell "tiger" and point at the thing. Even a striped dog that walked past the house sometimes was a tiger for him. He had been extremely happy when Perona had one day stopped the walker to meet Zoro, the dogs biggest fan.

"Tigel. Tigel. Tigel."

He had been chanting happily and pawed the fur on the dogs back.

- "I will love this bear like my own child." Perona lifted the teddy up. - "Technically he is your child." Mihawk hummed. - "Horo horo! True. My beautiful creation." She looked at the teddy proudly.

Mihawk took hold of it's paws and waved them at Perona.

- "Mistress," he croaked, "Whyy did you create me?" - "Oh, that voice is most uncute." - "Mi~stress!" He chuckled near the end, unable to keep his face. - "Shut up."

Perona laughed and squeezed the bear against her chest. She looked at Mihawk gleefully: - "You've ruined my teddy bear now." - "He'll be silent most of the time." - "He better."

Perona looked at the teddy and then spoke softly. - "I think I know what I want to study." Mihawk looked at her expectantly. - "I want to become a clothes designer. Feels kinda right at the moment." - "Have you looked for any schools, yet?" - "There's one in here so of course I'll aim for that one, but there's a few others I'll try to get in. They're just a bit too far away so moving closer would be required." - "Do your best and we'll see then what we'll do."

Mihawk sounded encouraging and it made her happy. She really liked him and maybe he would consider moving with her and Zoro if it came to that. She was sure he would. So she leaned against him humming happily.

- "I'm going to do my best."

But he backed of slightly and she looked at him questioning.

- "We need to set boundaries." He said quietly. - "What, so suddenly?" She was caught completely by surprise. She had thought they had found them already. - "I- Sometimes you just go too far with how you touch me. It makes me uncomfortable." - "You hate it?" - "No and yes." Mihawk let out a long sigh. "If you haven't noticed I'm not too fond of being touched." - "So touching is out of question." - "No. How do I put it. Uh. Sometimes it's nice, but sometimes it's too sudden or too close and it makes me uncomfortable. I just want you to understand that you need to somehow have my consent. If I push you away, don't try to hug me harder." - "I'm sorry." - "It's not your fault, I should have been more straight with you from the beginning." - "What stopped you?" - "I guess I was just scared."

Perona was baffled. Mihawk had been scared, but of what?

- "Umm, of what exactly?" - "I didn't want you to hurt more than you already did."

She looked at him and sighed. Mihawk worried so much over her and Zoros well being when she didn't give him the same amount of care. She'll do better in the future.

- "You've really been looking out for me all this time." - "You're important to me." - "You're important to me too." Perona said quietly and then looked shyly at him. "Can I hug you?"

Mihawk opened up his arms. Gently Perona wrapped her arms around him and pressed her head against his shoulder while Mihawk answered her hug just as gently.

- "I'm really lonely. I miss him all the time and touching you helps me to forget momentarily." She whimpered. - "I know, but I don't want to be a replacement for him. It's not a healthy thing to do and it affects us both negatively. How can you process your grief if you hide from it?"

Perona couldn't answer that. She wanted to protest, but he was right. How can they move on if she keeps on comparing Mihawk to him, use Mihawk as a substitute for him. If she's going to touch Mihawk, it should be because it's him and not the lingering similarity he has to his son. She would respect Mihawks wish, but the idea felt extremely lonely to her. She had been her husband's Perona for so long, she didn't know how to be by herself anymore. It scared her.

- "It's scary." - "You'll be fine." Mihawk petted her hair and back as an attempt to comfort her. "Maybe not straight away, but eventually you will be."

Perona squeezed him a bit tighter and felt slightly happy. They both might have been selfish back then, but moving in together had been the best decision for them all. To have someone who shares your pain and supports you, was extremely important.

- "Thank you for being here with me." Perona wiped a few tears as they separated. "I would be worse off with out you."

Mihawk nodded and smiled. He felt the same way of her.

Zoro rose up and fumbled over to them. He grabbed onto Mihawks leg. - "Howshe." - "You want to play Horsie?" Mihawk asked from him. - "Howsie!" He jumped a bit excited.

Mihawk lifted him up on his knee and started to bounce him up and down while holding him. Zoro squealed and laughed happily.

- "Hopoti hopoti hoi. Hopoti hoijaa." Mihawk riddled as he bounced the small child.

He enjoyed these moments with Zoro just as much and maybe a bit more as the boy did.

Perona looked at the two smiling. She excused herself and gathered her things. She went to her and Zoros room. She thought about what had just happened and thinking about support groups made her remember Trafalgar Law. She had not contacted him after they had met, something about him scared her. But now she thought, that maybe it was because of her husband's passing that he had been that way. She knew how negatively it had affected the people around her and Law had looked so miserable back then. So maybe by talking with her, Law could process his own feelings better. She could be support for him.

Perona opened her phone and started to write.

- "Hey, this is Roronoa Perona. I know it's been a while back that we last met, but if you still want to message me I'm open for conversation."

She hit send and it didn't take long for her to see him start to write back.

- "Hey, Perona! I'm really happy you've decided to message me. Did you have nice holidays?" - "I spend it with family. It was great. I met Absalom and he says you've been asking about me." - "Sorry, I was kind of desperate to talk to you and didn't have your number." - "Alright, so what did you want to talk about?" - "I just want to know you better." - "Sure, I would appreciate knowing you better as well. You've been a bit freaky." - "Sorry about that." - "No problem."

They talked of their backgrounds. She learned that Laws parents had been doctors so it was what had made him interested in becoming one too. But when he had been eight, they and his little sister had died in a hospital fire while he had been at school. That had caused him to go into a downswing and had been a difficult child, just like Perona had been. When he was around ten, he had been adopted by a cop and his more than weird family. Though he had done his best to be hard to deal with, his adoptive father had just shrugged it off and eventually won Law over. But not long after, he had been killed in line of duty. Though he had been part of Laws life only a short time it had made Law become more determined in his pursue to become a doctor.

While she chatted with him, she dug into the requirements and tests for the schools of her choice. She started to look for reference on what to expect and how she could prepare in advance. She could see Mihawk pass by with Zoro following him closely. For a moment he stopped and looked at her then smiled before moving on. She felt happy and was determined to make him proud of her.

----

It was a blizzard and Perona was outside for the second time plowing the yard free of snow. The wind was cold and the snow hit her face constantly. The snow piles just kept on growing and the weather casts promised for even more snow. When she was done she returned inside. Zoro was taking a nap so Perona had some time for herself. She messaged to Law again. Just asking how his day was.

- "Feeling down. Corazon died on a snowy day like this."

She sent him some comforting words, but everything feels a bit lame when you do it via messages.

- "Sorry if I'm not much of a comfort right now." - "Don't worry. Just being able to tell someone about things like this helps."

Perona picked up a commercial to look if there was any good deals. One spread was completely dedicated to Valentines Day. It was pink and red with white lace design adverting various chocolates and quick to give presents for your best friend or lover.

Perona sighed and flip the page. She did not get excited of Valentines Day. Even if it could be fun to send gifts to her friends, it felt pointless without her husband.

----

- "Happy Valentines Day, Perona."

He was grinning and held a huge bouquet of red, white and pink roses. She took the roses from him and invited him into her apartment. She took a vase for the flowers and placed them on the floor.

- "The floor? Should I be offended?" He chuckled.

Perona snorted and rolled her eyes at the remark. There was absolutely no space for the flowers in her tiny crammed up apartment and he knew it perfectly well. He grasped her by the hips and pressed his lips against hers. She wrapped her arms around his neck deepening the kiss. When she felt his hands move under her blouse she stopped and poked his nose.

- "If you think a couple of roses will get you into my pants, you're very mistaken." - "I don't." He laughed and grinned.

His hand went to his pocket and he pulled out two tickets which she quickly snatched from his hand. She looked at them and slowly started to smile broadly.

- "You remembered." - "Of course. How could I forget your favourite band?" - "These must have cost a fortune. The roses too." - "Only the best for my girl."

This time she went in for a kiss.

----

Perona messaged Law again, lamenting how lonely Valentines Day would be.

- "Want to spend it with me?"

No she didn't. She didn't want to think of the possibility of Law reaching for her body again, when in reality it should be her husband touching her.

- "No thanks. I think I'll spend it at home. Maybe visit the grave."

Perona flicked back to the Valentines day ad and looked at it for a moment. She started to write on her phone again. She quickly spaced through the rest of the pages, but there was nothing of interest. After making a quick inventory at the kitchen she wrote more. A list of things for Mihawk to buy before getting back home. She hit send and went to look through the window at the front yard. The snowing had gotten even thicker and she would have to plow it before Mihawk got home.

Noisily Zoro started to call for her. He had woken from his nap a bit early so he was grumpy and hungry. Perona went to pick him up. He held to her neck huffing angrily. Perona sighed slightly. When Zoro was grumpy like this there was no way for her to just put him into his chair to wait. It would instantly turn into full blown out tantrum. With her free hand Perona started to pick up the things needed to make his formula. Zoro seemed to calm down a bit when he realized she was making his drink and started to slowly knead her hair with his fingers. Good thing she had her hair on a braid so Zoro couldn't get it tangled. Soon the formula was ready and after it had cooled down Perona sat down handing the bottle to Zoro who started to hungrily suck it. A small bling informed Perona that she had received a message.

- "Where do you need new letter paper? There's some in the study." Mihawks job had ended so he could answer her back. - "I want the cute stuff, not plain and boring white. Some cute stickers too." - "Anything else?" - "Nothing aside from what I previously wrote."

Perona was just about to set her phone down, when she had an idea.

Zoro was finished with his bottle so she set him down. Full tummy quickly calmed Zoro down. He was still a bit grumpy and started to follow his mother while she looked for something. When she couldn't find anything inside she quickly put on some clothes to go out. Carefully she closed the backdoor after making sure Zoro wouldn't be stuffing his fingers in between. He huffed angrily and shouted behind the door for her to come back. Outside the snow storm was still raging and Perona took heavy steps on the thick snow while trying to get to the small shed around the corner of the house, tactically out of sight. It wasn't as badly covered with snow as she feared so it didn't take a lot of work to get inside. The air smelled dry and earthy as she looked around. She picked up a red ceramic flower pot. It was perfect. With the pot in hand she went back her own steps. Once inside she quickly tore her shoes off and poured snow out of them. Zoro was pleased to have her back, but got quickly curious of the snow. He took some of the snow to inspect it, before quickly eating it.

- "That's gross, Zoro." Perona chuckled while taking off her clothes.

Zoro picked up more snow and looked as it melted on his hand. His eyes were round and he pointed his wet hand towards her. Snow inside the house would always make Zoro wonder, no matter how many times he saw it melt.

- "Snow still melts to water when warmed."

Zoro shook his hand and grabbed onto Peronas legs. He had accidentally stepped onto the water and was now shaking his foot while leaning onto her.

- "Did your feet get wet?" Perona petted his head before picking him up. "Lets go change your socks."

----

Perona was busy playing with Zoro and had lost track of time. He was starting to get interested in simple puzzles though most of the time he wasn't quite able to solve them. Perona didn't solve them for him, it was important to let him figure it out by himself. She did however do it silly and keep on failing herself. Eventually Zoro managed to solve one by accident and Perona erupted into a cheer.

- "You're so smart! Mommy couldn't solve it, but you could. You're so amazing Zoro."

Zoro first looked at her baffled, but when she kept on cheering for him and pointing at the solved puzzle, he finally got it and started to laugh. He kept on resolving the puzzle and every time Perona cheered for him. Eventually she did point to another slot.

- "Can you try solve that one for Mommy?" She took one of the pieces and tried putting it in failing on purpose. "This one is hard."

She tried a couple of times more and Zoro took one of the pieces himself and tried to put it in. He did end up solving that one too and was extremely happy to receive praise from his mother. He laughed happily and went to hug her, closing his eyes content. He fumbled a bit until he was sitting on her lap facing her. They were still embracing each other warmly.

- "Do you want to continue playing?" Perona picked a puzzle piece and put it on it's place since Zoro wasn't looking.

Zoro didn't really answer her question, just sighed content in her arms. Perona smiled and petted his hair. Her hand was securely on his back keeping him on her lap as she started to pick up puzzle pieces putting them back in. The door opened and Perona turned her head to see Mihawk slightly covered with snow holding two bags of groceries. While busy with Zoro she had forgotten about the snow storm and snow work waiting to be done. She heard the snow plow drive past the house surely leaving a wall before their drive way.

- "Good I got back before the plow." Mihawk remarked and walked into the living room putting down the bags near Perona. - "I'm sorry. I got so distracted with Zoro I forgot to do the plowing." - "Hmm, it's okay. Looked like you've done it earlier today." He picked his phone from his pocket. - "It's been snowing like hell today and it doesn't seem to calm down. I can go do the plowing now." - "No need. I'm already dressed up anyway."

He lifted his phone to take a picture and Perona smiled a little bit while holding Zoro.

- "I'll call this one 'Zoro solved The Puzzle'." Mihawk smiled and put his phone away. - "What's 'The Puzzle'?" - "The puzzle of love." He chuckled. "You can put the groceries away while I do the snow work."

Perona stood up while still holding Zoro. He peeked a little at Mihawk before reaching out with his hand.

- "Pappa." He happily called out while waving his out stretched hand. - "Good day to you too." Mihawk smiled and shook Zoros small hand before going back outside.

Zoro went back to nuzzling Perona who huffed a little bit as she lifted one bag with her free hand. She wondered how long she would be able to carry him with just one arm.

----

Mihawk had finished his work and brushed the snow off of himself before going inside. The wind had calmed down, but the snowflakes were big and heavy. If it kept snowing like that all night it would be hellish to plow the snow in the morning. He put off his outdoor clothes and loosened his tie, that had been bothering him all the time it took him to get back home and plow the snow. He threw it on the counter and started to unbutton his shirt. Halfway through he stopped and breathed deeply. Of all the things he had to suffer for his work, ties must be the worst.

He quickly made his way to the kitchen where Perona was writing something on one of the letter papers. He had not been sure if she would like the pastel floral design, but it seemed that at least it was passing enough. Zoro was sitting in his high chair and was nibbling on some bread with butter on top.

- "What are you writing?" Mihawk leaned over to Perona who squeaked and covered the paper with her hands. - "Don't look."

He hummed amused and started to look around on what to cook for dinner.

- "It's a bit silly, so please don't laugh." Perona said quietly looking at Mihawk. He nodded and started cooking. - "It's a love letter I guess. I'm just writing here what has happened and how I've been feeling." - "What are you going to do with it?"

Perona was silent and looked out the window. Mihawk took some quick noodles and frozen vegetables among some meat. He was going to make a wok of sort.

- "I'm going to visit the grave on Valentines Day and -uh- send it to him." - "Do you want me and Zoro there too?" - "No, it's a bit embarrassing." Perona shook her head. "But I wouldn't mind getting a ride there." - "Alright."

For a while only the sizzling of Mihawks pan could be heard.

- "I've been thinking..." Mihawk started. "Do you have a drivers license?" - "I do, but I haven't driven in a while. Years in fact." - "I think it might be a good idea to practice a little when the roads get better. Then you wouldn't need to rely on me as much."

Perona puffed her cheeks and looked at him disapprovingly. He made it sound like she was burdening him. He saw her disapproval and shook his head.

- "It's for your independence and privacy. I do like to drive you around, but you could go somewhere by yourself if you wanted and you wouldn't even need to tell me." - "Would you get me my own car?" She sneered. - "Maybe in due time. What do you think?" - "It's not a bad idea." - "Thought so. For instance you could go with Zoro to Moria. I don't think he would mind if I didn't always come with you two." - "Hmm? I think he likes you." - "I know, but there's still some of that awkwardness between us." - "I guess." Perona sighed in agreement.

It didn't take long for Mihawk to be ready. He gave Zoro just a little bit of the food since he had just eaten. He sat down by the table to eat while Perona got some for herself. She tasted the food and pouted a bit.

- "It's not good?" Mihawk was slightly worried by her expression. - "No, it's heavenly." Her brows burrowed. "It's unfair how you can be such a good cook." - "Years of practice." - "Not fair. Your son was good too." - "He learned from the best." - "You're so full of yourself. Didn't your father teach you?"

From the mention of his father Mihawks expression darkened a little.

- "No, self-taught." - "Really? That's amazing."

Perona did notice, but as usual chose not to dig into it as Mihawk seemed to have lost his mood for talking, choosing to instead surf on his phone. He would open up on his own and it could take awhile, but she didn't mind waiting for him. Though not forever. She didn't trust in forever anymore. She looked outside. It was pitch black, but she could barely see that the snow was still falling as it hit the window.

- "I wonder if this will be a long winter."

----

The whole winter had been the coldest in years and had the most snow too. Mihawk was wiping snow off of his car as it had been snowing once again. Perona chuckled and he looked at her with a questioning look.

- "Just thought that the world might be mourning his death too." - "Hmm. That would be nice." - "Though he wasn't that good at recycling. Maybe he and Mother Earth were having a secret relationship." She laughed. - "No, he was like Hancock when it came to love. Near obsessive." - "That sounds scary." - "I guess it depends. He and Hancock are the type of people to get completely consumed by their love, though they were smart enough not to do anything stupid like stalking." As he said it Mihawk stiffened for a moment before sighing loudly. "Though not letting go of something that hurts you just because you love it was pretty stupid of her."

Mihawk went to get Zoro while Perona sat in the car holding a small bag. She didn't know if he had noticed, but it applied to them too in a sense. They were still clinging to a memory of a person and chose to be hurt rather than try to stop remembering him. It was stupid from a logical point of view, but very reasonable and human in the end. She didn't say anything when Mihawk returned and put Zoro on his seat. She looked at him carefully and came to the conclusion that the thought had not crossed his mind.

Once they were at the cemetery Mihawk turned to look at Perona.

- "Are you sure you don't want us to come there?" - "You can, but I'll stay a bit behind after. It's really awkward."

She couldn't deny Mihawk or Zoro the right to visit the grave since they had drove all the way there. They hadn't taken Zoros stroller, but Mihawk wasn't bothered to carry him and Zoro did walk most of the way by himself anyway. They stayed at the grave for a while. Perona put some new candles and lit them. It had been a bit hard to get to the grave because the walkways were a bit blocked by the snow even if it was a well looked after cemetery. Mihawk didn't say a word, just looked sternly at the grave stone. After a moment of silence, he nodded to Perona and left with Zoro to wait in the car. She made sure that they were far away enough and then pulled the ceramic pot and the thick envelope from her bag. She placed the pot on the grave and the letter in it. She closed her eyes and waited a bit and then set the letter in flames. It burned only a small moment leaving just a little bit of ashes after it. She took the pot and dusted it, letting the ashes fall on the grave and be picket up by the wind. She put the pot in a small plastic bag before putting it back in her bag. She felt stupid, but it had also felt relieving to do it. She had written so much and it felt good to get some of those thoughts and feelings onto paper and this way there was no fear of anyone reading it, just her husband.

She walked back and sat in the car. Mihawk could smell the smoke on her. He didn't say anything, but it was clear to him that Perona had burnt that letter she had spent so long making. She seemed calm and serene so it must have been good for her.

Mihawk chuckled.

The idea was silly, but sometimes it was the silly things that helped the most. Though he was not going try it out himself anytime soon.

#MihawkxPerona #mihopero #dracule mihawk #perona #one piece #ミホペロ #Irreplaceable #fanfic

13 notes · View notes

shikkearu · 6 years

Text

Irreplaceable Part 5: Clearing out the apartment

https://www.wattpad.com/539581455-irreplaceable-part-5-clearing-out-the-apartment

Zoro was not fine.

He was more silent and got spooked more easily. If Perona went away even for a tiny moment he would start crying. They, Mihawk included, stayed by Morias for a couple of days. He was more than happy to have them there and even started to bond with Mihawk.

- ”What are you two reading?” Perona came into the room while rocking Zoro to sleep. Mihawk and Moria were sitting on the sofa looking rather smug. - ”Wait! That's the photo album! Moria, don't!” But it was already too late. - ”You were really cute dressed up as a bear,” Mihawk was smirking. Moria was showing the most adorable five-year-old Perona dressed up as a bear. - ”She wanted to grow up as one. It was a way of life for her. When I told her she couldn't be a princess and a bear, well...” He pointed to the next picture of her now wearing a crown and a tutu over the bear outfit. Mihawks smirk widened as he looked at the picture and then at Perona. - ”You know it's not too late for that yet,” Mihawk said and he had the most nastiest look on his face. ”I bet we could find a suit your size.”

They both laughed grossly.

- ”And an astronaut suit,”Moria added, ”as she wanted to be the princess bear of all bear astronauts the next week.” And ofcourse there was a photo to show along.

- ”You two are the worst!” Perona grunted. ”Come, Zoro. Let's go find a more peaceful place.”

- ”Zoros gotten a bit better now.” Moria was holding Zoro who was a bit spooked but not crying. - ”Oh, that is good,” Perona shouted from the next room. They were teaching Zoro back to his normal self. It wouldn't take long. Mihawk sat infront of her and let out a small sigh before saying: - ”Lets leave Zoro here with Moria.” Perona looked at him angry. - ”Only for the weekend,” he added, ”We really need to start the work on the apartment and we can't have Zoro go to another episode like that.”

She nodded. She didn't want to upset Zoro and she was ready to deal with the apartment.

They went by Mihawks house. A week had been wasted at Morias and it was time to start working. At the apartment Perona pointed out which furniture to keep, sell and trash. Mihawk started taking photos and making ads at online selling pages. Perona went through their old clothes. She could smell her husband everywhere. But still she went through everything, though a bit teary most of the time. By the end of the day she had filled several bags worth of clothes to take for charity. She only kept the newest and most dearest pieces she had. She could buy new some day. She also kept a couple of her husbands clothes. It was funny but she didn't have any favourite clothes of his. His style was very dull in the end. Mihawk had already got a couple of messages concerning the double bed and closet. Thankfully the city was big, so it had a lot of people interested in cheap furniture.

They decided to sleep in the apartment, Perona on the bed and Mihawk on the sofa. They woke up quite early in the morning. Mihawk went to get some breakfast for them, while Perona sorted out the mail that had come there before the address change. Bills, adds and a letter to her husband. It didn't have an address on it, but she knew who had sent it.

He looked at the letter grossed out, before tearing it to shreds. - ”Who is it from?” - ”My `mother´” he said disgusted. - ”But didn't she leave early on?” Perona was baffled. - ”Well it's not my mother actually,” he laughed a tiny bit. ”It's my father faking to be my mother. Such a cliché, I know.” - ”But why?” - ”When my mother left I was about six. I was at the day-care and mothers day was close. We had to make cards to our mothers. I did one like a good boy, but when father came to take me home, I stomped on it and cried that I hated mom. He calmly took the card from me and said he would send it to mother for me. And I had been happy. Maybe getting a card from me telling how much I loved her would get her to come back.” He looked angry and Perona petted his cheek looking worried. - ”You don't need to tell me.” - ”I want to.” He took her hand before pressing his face against it, closing his eyes. - ”I got a letter from her. She explained that it had been her job as a model that made her go. That she was sad that she had left. She promised to write me whenever she could. I had been really happy and told my father about it. He was acting surprised.”

They were now laying on the sofa, his head against her chest. She caressed his hair.

- ”There was never any address to send a letter back to. Said she didn't have a permanent residence and that father would tell her what she needed to know. By twelve I had figured out it was father writing me. I confronted him once about it, but he insisted it was my mother writing those generic letters.” He sighed. - ”I haven't read any of them in years now and they don't come in so often. Last one was hmm... half a year ago. But I humour my father by telling him how glad I am to get letters from my mother. Hey, Perona...” He turned to look her in the eyes. - ”Hmm?” - ”Promise me that when we get kids, we'll never abandon or lie to them like that. Even if we split.” - ”Horo horo. What makes you think we'll get kids? You fool! I might leave you tomorrow.” She showed him tongue. He grinned. It was the day before he proposed to her.

- ”Does this look familiar to you?”

Mihawk looked at the letter she was holding inches from his face. He grabbed it and after taking a good look he gave it back to Perona. - ”I don't know who sent it.” - ”You did!” - ”I have never sent my son letters. We used emails and text messages.” He frowned. ”Open it.” - ”Didn't you fake that his mother was sending him letters?” She pouted. - ”Do I really look like the type of person to do that. Open it and see for yourself!” Mihawk was right, of course he didn't look like the type at all. Perona opened the letter and read it. It wasn't meant for her husband. It was for her.

”Good spouse of my son.

I have tried to reach him for years and I fear he stopped reading my letters a long time ago. So i wish this final letter will reach you instead. I have learned from my ex-husband of his passing and I regret that I haven't been able to get acquainted with you. I am a very busy person and my personal life has suffered because of it. I know that I have a grandchild and I wish to see them atleast once. My husband has failed to relay any pictures to me. He says he needs our sons' permission and since he is now gone I ask it from you. If you could give him a permission to send me some I would ever be so grateful.

The mother of your husband”

- ”What the hell is this letter? It barely gives any information on her and all she does is ask for pictures. What kind of a mother is she?” Perona already knew the answer to that. - ”She had her reasons,” Mihawk said quietly. Perona looked at him. She had thought he was a bad father, but -oh- how wrong had she been. Maybe the mother as well wasn't such a bad person. - ”What does she do for living then?” - ”She works on the fashion industry. Maybe you've heard of her...”

Peronas eyes widened as he said the name. - ”But she seems so young. I can't believe it.” - ”Believe it or not.” - ”The mothers day cards?” - ”I sent them to make her feel bad. She just never felt bad enough to meet up with him. I did try, but she wouldn't do it.” Anger flashed briefly in his eyes, but most of all Mihawk looked worn down. Clearly talking of his ex wasn't something he liked to do. Perona thought for a moment and then finally said: - ”Can you try arranging a meeting for us? If she wants a photo, she can take one by herself.” - ”I will try,” he sounded defeated.

They were going through some old papers trying to figure out which ones were important and which were not. It was very boring to do, so she took the photo album her husband had carefully assembled for them. On the cover with big letters read ”Our Romance”. He had been into tacky stuff like that. Mihawk chuckled and started going through it with her, while she explained where each photo had been taken.

- ”What happened in this one?” Mihawk pointed to a picture of Perona laughing, holding out a hotdog. Text under read: ”The moment I fell in love” - ”On our second date. Right after a seagull had taken his hotdog. He was sulking so I offered mine to him. He was so taken back that he told me to stop and let him take a picture. The moment felt really stupid at the time.” - ”I can imagine. He was really into photography. He wanted me to take photos of him doing silly things. Like the one of him holding a large cappagehead he had grown.” - ”Yeah, that's a good on- Damn!” - ”Got you.” Mihawk looked at her smugly. - ”Yeah, you did. Don't let it get into your head.” She smiled and punched his shoulder. Mihawk looked back at her with a gentle smile. She blushed and took out her phone. - ”Let's take a photo together!” She held her hand out and at the moment both stuck their tongues out. Perona laughed at the photo. Mihawk looked ridiculous. It was good. - ”Thanks for helping me. I wouldn't be able to do this on my own.” She rested her head against his shoulder. She felt safe with him around. - ”Not a problem. I wish I could have been more with you, back when he was still alive.”

They continued sorting the papers.

#fanfic #MihawkxPerona #mihopero #dracule mihawk #perona #one piece #ミホペロ #Irreplaceable #mihawk

8 notes · View notes