(A/n): I know I said I'd upload at a certain time and I already failed lolz but lately I've been tired and lazy to do it. Forgive me. So, I'll post when I can. I have worked hard on this chapter to make it as fluffy as possible as I promised. I am hyped on coffee and on a roll tonight so expect to see the next chapter earlier than expected (I hope) Pray for me yall and enjoy~

It's been a week since Christmas and today is the New Year's party. Veronica is busying herself with the preparations. You and your brothers decide to play outside for the day and spare your mother from your mischief.

Currently, you and Luffy are in a snowball fight against the two elder brothers, Sabo, and Ace. The argument started with Luffy after having his face rubbed by Ace's victory in a game. Luffy claimed he could beat him at another game. One more physical. Your name was brought into their quarrel claiming even the "runts" as Ace called him, could win against the elders every now and then. The argument grew until the suggestion of a game of a snowball fight is suggested to settle the matter once and for all. Now here you kids are catching your breath's covered by a shield of snow. The two of you were corned, the battle has turned intense now that all your tricks have been ruined by your skillful duo. You are exhausted, out of their league, Luffy is barely tired and held more energy than you. There are slight pants in between. His breathing isn't as heavy as yours. The cold of the snow feels refreshing against your face. You two wait it out as masses of snowballs are tossed in your direction. Each of them missing, failing to hit you. Every now and then you peek out of your cover to launch some snow balls at their fort hoping to land a hit on one of them. You lay low once more and notice the small pile of snow balls left. Your ammo is low and you are exhausted. At this rate your group would lose leaving only Luffy to fight. You wanted to survive and prove those two idiots wrong. You wanted to show them for once that even the youngest can win. You stare at your ball not realizing your hold on it tightened until the ball shatters in your hand. To your dismay you are left with only four balls. You stop Luffy from gaining another one leaving him in question.

"That's enough. I know we can make more, but at this rate I don't think I can keep up. We've used every possible tactic I can think of and each one of those had no effect." Luffy frowns hearing your distress. He slumps against the snow, shield trying to rack his brains for ideas.

"So...what...do we do?" He stutters unsure if he wanted to even know. You hum in thought, contemplating. You retrace your steps in your mind slowly gaining an idea of how to go about this and win. Finally, a light bulb hangs over your head. You grin devilishly at the boy along with an evil chuckle.

"I have an idea. Listen closely and try to follow what I'm about to tell you. This will be our last hope of victory." Luffy nods with determination. His ears perk ready to listen to your elaborate plan.

It's been thirty minutes since your sudden halt on attacking the duo. They waited longer than they usually do when you come up with an attack plan. The first time was indeed unexpected but an obvious trick they've seen many times in animes. After the first two failed tricks, Sabo and Ace came to a conclusion that the strategic attacks are not Luffy's way of fighting. Although it is indeed scary to almost be defeated by the straw-hat the two also realized putting you two together is challenging and dangerous. Especially since they knew you are the type of girl who came up with ideas. An example of when all four of them went up against the boar during Thanksgiving. A stubborn headed cluts like Luffy guided by a girl of your stature is indeed something not to be underestimated.

Sabo stood on one knee over a dome of snow juggling a snowball in his hand. Ace lazily slouches against their shield of snow while playing with a pick of bark in his mouth. He growls in annoyance. He couldn't wait any longer. He spits the bark out of his mouth.

"That's it. Those dorks are taking too long!" He starts.

"Yeah it's a bit weird. They don't usually take this long." A thought bubbles in Sabo's head so much that a wide smirk crawls on his lips. "Maybe we scared them into submission. All we have to do is just drop the ball on them and win." Ace snickers at the thought.

"Maybe, or maybe..." He looks ahead taking in a deep breath and shouting, "OR MAYBE THEY'RE A BUNCH OF WIMPS!" The two cackle until they settle. Only silence remains and the cool breeze smacking their, red faces. No reply. This snaps Ace into irritation. "Oi! Come out already!" A few seconds of waiting, a black blur runs past Sabo's side gaining their attention. Sabo earns a cold shiver down his spine as he stares to his right waiting for whatever it was to pop out. The same blur passes beside Ace. Now the two are on alert.

"D-did you see that?"

"Y-yeah it was some scary looking blur." The blur makes a move again only this time runs towards the front of the house.

"Let's go check it out." Ace declares.

"No, you stay here in case of anything. I'll go ahead." The blonde takes pursuit of the blurred creature leaving Ace behind without so much as a say.

Sabo turns the corner to find the lot empty. There is no one in sight besides the fort left behind by you and Luffy. Things were too quiet. Cautiously, he wanders into what might be a trap. Blue eyes scanning anything out of the ordinary. Just as a step is taken near your bunker, he hears a string snow ball being tossed. He dodges easily to the side searching for the predecessor. He spots the blur after he spins on his heel, quickly taking the shot. Sadly, he comes to figure out that the blur was none less than their snowman. The boy is left gaping in disbelief when he hears a rumbling sound coming from the roof. He widens his eyes and screams to the top of his lungs unable to move as his feet are planted into the soil out of fear. Rolling on top of him is a three-meter snowball.

Meanwhile, his cries are heard from the other side of the house. Ace perks up to Sabo's distress. He hops over his snow bunker carrying two snow balls. Upon arrival he discovers a muffled noise and a large pile of snow stacked up. Slowly he leans his ear towards the snow.

"Sabo?" He asks. Popping out is a hand in the center of the dome flailing it. Ace lets out a small squeak. "Sabo!"

"Ace! Get me out of here!" He cries. Said boy hops on top of the dome attempting to free his companion. He turns aggravated after many tugs deciding to ignite himself melting all the ice away. Amongst the layers snow is a shivering Sabo all wet with chattering teeth.

"What happened?" The blonde holds his arms for warmth. It was difficult to regain his heat with water weakening his powers.

"I-I-It was a trap-p." He stutters. He lets out a small 'burr' noise. Onyx eyes widen in astonishment. His brother is taken out by one of your traps. He shifts over to a shuffling noise behind him which turns into a 'thump' noise. Ace follows the noise rounding the corner. He grins victoriously after spotting a familiar (h/c) colored head belonging to you. He makes himself known standing tall before you with an, "Ah-ha!" Your (e/c) eyes widen with fear. You sat on the snow defenseless like a beautiful damsel in distress. You blink your eyes with curiosity as to what is coming next. Waiting. Ace is taken aback slowly by how cute you look. Your hair caressing your face complementing your features just perfectly. Those (e/c) pools he could just drown himself in them, hypnotized forever. Your lips parted. Oh, your lips looked so divine ever so inviting like he wanted to...to...to what? What did he want to do with them? Why couldn't he toss the dang snow ball already and end this staring contest already? Before he even knew it, a ball of snow whacks him on his right side of his face. He falls onto the snow. Luffy cheers triumphantly bouncing up and down. You pick yourself up high fiving the straw-hat.

"Nice! Way to go Luffy! I knew we could beat them." Luffy laughs his signature laugh while rubbing his index under his nose sheepishly.

"Thanks. I couldn't have done it without you. I'm glad I got here in time before Ace tagged ya out."

"Definitely! Nice save bro! You're my hero." You side hug him. He returns the hug tipping his hat up to see better. Sabo meets up with the three of you. Ace sits himself up shaking any flakes off his head.

"Dude, what the heck? You had her in your sights and you didn't shoot? You lost as the game." He groans. Ace glares at the blonde picking himself off to dust off the residue snow.

"Shut up! I was distracted!"

"By what? What could you possibly be distracted?" He retorts. Before Ace could say anything else, the two divert their attention to you and Luffy finally taunting them after months of ridicule. It was your turn to tease them back. You sing a taunting tune like, "we won! In your face! You freaking suck~" The two of you stick out your tongue and pull down your eye lids. Sabo is the only one who growls in annoyance. Ace stares at you in a daze. "Quit it before I-I- A-Achoo!" He sneezes. He is quick to hold himself as he shivers once again. Snot drools down his nose only for him to sniff it back in place. You frown and begin to worry.

"Are you okay."

"Peachy." He mutters bitterly. "Just c-cold. I can't heat myself up with water still hanging onto my clothes and pours. Devil-fruit user's weakness." You wondered how that worked when they showered. You hear a door slide open.

"Kids, come inside you've been out for too long you're going to catch a cold!" Veronica hollers. You all turn to follower her request.

"Hai! Coming mother!" You call back. Pleased, she returns to her duties.

All four of you walk inside only to hear your mother gasp nearly having a heart attack when she finds the four of you nearly frozen with reddened cheeks and wet clothes from the snow. Sure you held winter clothing with you for such a weather, but that didn't stop your socks or any other light clothing underneath to keep you from getting wet and cold.

"Look at you four! You're all wet and shivering like a bunch of popsicles. Head over to the laundry room and discard your clothing into the laundry basket. There are warm towels there. Wrap yourself in them and take a warm bath. Company will start showing up soon so I want you to wear what I left in your beds."

"Company?" Sabo asks.

"I don't have time to explain. Just go now before you get a cold." She pleads with a heavy sigh. You curtsy into the laundry room. Luffy slipped form the puddle of water left behind by you three. He picked himself up continuing his way to the room where he leaves behind the sound of his 'squeaks' from his boots. The straw-hat boy slips once more sliding toward you three like a bowling ball. Just like the game, you all pile on top of each other after being tripped by the chuckling boy.

"Luffy!" You all scold.

"Sorry, sorry." He giggles.

After your bath, you four are neatly dressed as promised. Ace once again disliked the bow hugging his neck so he let it loose enough to breathe. He didn't want to disappoint, but he also didn't want to be denied of oxygen by the bow. As usual, your mother snaps a photo of you four dressed up nicely. You wore a black and white stripped dressed shaping your lower half like an umbrella. A cute bow on your head on the side. Honestly your mother liked to dress you like royalty sometimes. Something that Sabo from your view, despised judging by his grumbling and fidgeting. Luffy kept scratching himself like he wasn't used to the suit. This was school all over again. After your bullies were taken care of they noticed how constricting their school uniform is. Constantly fussing over every little thing. The only way to stop them was for them suck it up and distract themselves. This is one of those things where it has to be just that. Luckily as your mother promised, company will be here soon to give them something to do.

"Awe, you all look so adorable. Now I know you don't like this but it's just for today."

"What's so special about today?" Ace grumbles."

"Well Tsun-tsun-"

"Don't call me that." He earns a giggle from the woman.

"It's just a tradition where we celebrate a new year, a new start and everything. A year to start fresh."

"That's it?" Ace clicks his tongue. "Adults are so weird. It's just another excuse to party. That's what it sounds like to me." He grumbles. Veronica laughs at his cheekiness. She hugs the boy rubbing her cheek against his.

"Ah, Tsun-tsun never change." She slips a kiss atop of his head. The freckled boy blushes bashfully though his face screamed in annoyance.

"So, who and who is coming?" Sabo intervenes.

"It's not like Thanksgiving or Christmas that's for sure." You pipe up. "This time friends and families are invited. Meaning there will be a lot of people." The boys gulp.

"You mean larger than your family?" You nod your head.

"Yes. Even larger. That's why she wants you all to be well behaved, dressed and not embarrass her." She giggles.

"I can't help it! A large crowd makes me nervous." Veronica nervously laughs then scurries back into the kitchen to bake.

"So, what will we be doing?" Sabo asks.

"Greeting, having fun and provide snacks and drinks to guests." You chirp. Your brothers look at you for a long time sweat dropping.

"That sounds like child labor. That doesn't sound remotely fun." Sabo informs.

"Yeah I guess you're right." You chuckle nervously rubbing the back of your head. "I'm just so used to trying to avoid Dillinger and Sugar. There are usually other kids to play with, but I just stick with service. It's all I know."

"That's understandable." Ace crosses his arms. "They are snobby brats, but now you have us so that's not necessary." You raise a brow.

"Isn't it? I mostly do it because of that." You point to your mother who seems to be skittish as she juggles a tray of cookies almost dropping them and designing each pastry and snacks. Your brothers take note of how important this day always seems to be for your mother by the way she paces. Watching longer only made them pity her more.

"Okay, fine. Point proven." Ace sighs.

"She...does look like she needs a lot of help."

"I'll help Veronica!" Luffy chirps.

"We all will Luffy. You just have to make some promises of not eating all the food." He groans. "Try to contain yourself no matter what. We're doing this for her."

"I'll try." He pouts.

"Please do." You say. "Every day she struggles with pleasing her family. I'm not quite sure why, but all she tells me is that because everyone is family."

"Familia." Luffy says. You nod in agreement.

"Good day my lovely familia!" Corazon bellows. "Today is going to be an exciting day."

"It's just another New Year's party abuelo." You say.

"Oh, is that what you think? Today is different." He shifts his gaze over to Ace whom raises a bro unfazed.

"How is it any different?" Luffy pry's. Corazon grins from ear to ear almost like a Cheshire smile.

"Ah, that my dear boy is a secret to be unfolded later tonight." And with that, he leaves the four of you bewildered to greet his daughter.

Later in the evening, invited guests start arriving around eight or seven. Although today was a holiday, your family always arrived at late hours due to their busy jobs. The first to arrive was Shanks. Luffy, coincidentally answered the door practically pouncing on him and yakking his ear off without so much as to take a breather. He honestly reminded you of Cheese from "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends". He was one of your favorite characters besides Wilt and the main characters. To your brother's surprise, Shanks did not arrive alone. You knew who the rest of his friends are. Lucky Roo, Ben, and Yassop. Just as you invite the group inside, your brothers muttered something to each other you couldn't here. Another secret you assumed. You glare at them after trying to ask what they were talking about. Instead they avoid the question hoping for you to drop it. Honestly the whole secrecy never will stop will it? You thought to yourself. You just will never be a part of whatever it is no matter how much they claim to care for you.

Not long did your main family arrive, the 'Donquixote' family. Ace took the liberty of answering and greeting them as best as he could offer to take their jackets. To his annoyance, each one of them tossed their belongings onto Ace piling up and passing his head. He grumbles a, "Thank you." Before just dropping them on the floor near the coat rack without a care. To his displeasure, he is greeted by the two snobs he despised the most, Sugar and Dillinger. Two obnoxious giggles ring out to his ears.

"Awe, look Dillinger it's Ace. He's suddenly a service dog." Sugar giggles.

"It would seem so. How low." Ace growls and stomps his foot startling the blonde. After last time's meeting, Dillinger has been frightened of the freckled boy and his brothers having been capable of beating him and be favored by Doflamingo himself. The man whom the two have been raised since birth.

"Get lost!" He snarls. The two gladly scurry away from him and cry themselves over to Jora and Trebol. Ace huffs crossing arms. You approach Ace and rub his arm.

"I know they're annoying but try to be nice just for today." He pouts in response. Sabo enters the conversation with a tray full of drink wiping sweat off his forehead.

"Ugh! This is just like being at a ball. It's so uncomfortable. I hate this." He tugs on his collar for air. "How long do we have to do this?"

"Not until midnight. That's usually when the celebration begins and ends." The two groan. You chuckle at their incompetence to hold out during a party. You knew over the years they will get used to it. Ace huffs and walks away wearing a distant face. You turn to Sabo in question. "What's up with Ace? He's been acting weird since this morning.

"What do you mean?"

"Well it all started during our snowball fight. He hesitated to throw it at me. Not that it's not a big deal, right? Well that's not the problem. He's been out of it all day like he's got something on his mind." Sabo hums contemplating.

"That does sound weird. Ace isn't much of a thinker. It's odd to hear that he's distant in his own mind." You frown hoping nothing is wrong. You begin to worry. Sabo catches your distress. He squeezes your shoulder breaking you out of your thoughts. "Don't worry. I'm sure it's nothing. He'll be back to normal tomorrow." You sure hoped so. Your attention diverts to the rambunctious group at the dining table. On the left side sat Shanks with his group of friends standing behind him cheering him on. The same goes for Doflamingo to the right with his friends. The two are completely inebriated from their ears down to their cheeks. Shanks held the widest, drunkest smile ever while Doflamingo held a simple smirk. Their cheeks are not enough to cover how far gone they are. You head over to the table to watch the commotion, including Ace. Your ten-year-old eyes peering up to the competitors. One by one their glass is poured and forced to gulp the clear liquid down. The supporters exchanged some vulgar words here and there talking about who is better and what their, "boss" can do. You tilt your head curiously to those key words wondering why your family had been talking about Shanks or Doflamingo in that way. You were never one to pry before because of how small you felt if you were to ask, but after being around your brother's you changed so much that you started to be observant over everything caring less about what others think and simply focusing on peeked your interest.

"Quite impressive there Feather Duster." The red head teases. "Not a lot of people can handle my level. They usually pass out right about now."

"Well I'm not most people." Shanks gulps down his drink.

"Guess you're right about that, otherwise how would you be able to party and continue your business." A blonde brow is raised.

"I think that's common sense in the world you and I live in, or are you suggesting about the rumors about my sweet, goods?"

"Maybe."

"You and your allies have the audacity to attack my warehouses every now and then. Am I lead to believe that you had something to do with it Red?" He slams his fist into the table. The tension in the air grew. You yourself felt scared yet you could not peel your eyes away from the abrupt conversation. You wanted to know what will happen next. Shanks throws his head back howling with laughter.

"My allies may have done that in the past but I wouldn't waste my time with your crappy brand Feathers." He teases. His men cackle encouraging their friend. You could see a vein stirring on your uncle's forehead. Something you have never actually witnessed about him. The insignia could only mean something bad like in your manga's. Anger or irritation. His anger is replaced with a Cheshire grin.

"Crappy eh? Well whatever it takes for a pest like you to stay away from my goods. I'd say it's the smart thing to do since you don't know what I'm capable of."

"I could say the same to you." Shanks scowls at the man for a brief moment before your mother intervenes.

"Could we go one year without the tension. It's almost New Year's. Let's just have some fun. That's what we're all here for, right?"

"Aye!" Shanks chirps. "Vee's right. Let's toss this feud aside and have some fun!" The room fills with barbaric cheers as if they were in the pirate era. Music fills the room along with general chatter setting the mood how it's supposed to be.

"What did he mean by goods? Boss? Allies?" Ace and Sabo cringe hoping you haven't caught on. "It's weird huh guys? They sound like something out of a movie." You chortle. The two sigh in relief. Their heart rate slowing after that small scare you gave them. The two knew who the real Shanks is and caught on really quick after their bickering that Doflamingo was someone important as well. The main question still remained, if Veronica knew? Is she aware who she became friends with and kept you in the dark for safety reasons or did you too also pretend to not know? They wouldn't even know how to approach the two of you and even if they did, would you lie to them? This was something unclear and hard to get around without carrying evidence. The only obvious answer would be to ask Doflamingo or Shanks themselves. Shanks probably being close to Veronica would lie while Doflamingo seemed like a brutally honest man who could care less. Judging by Sugar and Dillinger's reaction and yours, Sabo wasn't far off from his hunch. Still, everything is certainly early for answers and right now is a special occasion for drama. One the boys didn't wish to partake in ruining that for Veronica. So, by dismissing these thoughts, Ace and Sabo nod and chuckle with you to lose any suspicions from you.

"Yeah! Totally. Um, maybe we should continue to serve the guests some snacks. They look like they could use some." He suggests. The doorbell rings. "O-or maybe go get that and Ace and I will get some snacks." Sabo pushes your back to the door with urgency.

"Okay, okay weirdo I'm going. Gees!" You huff.

You open the door. Your eyes sparkle with delight. "Uncle Law~!" You pounce him into an embrace against his hips. He pats your head like every other awkward affection he could give you. Hugs were clearly not his thing but you could care less.

"Evening kiddo. How are you?"

"I'm great. I haven't been sick or anything. I have been taking proper care of myself as promised."

"That's good. I'm glad you are. Keep at it and I might take you to the aquarium." He winks. You gasp feeling giddy at the hint.

"Only if my brothers are allowed to come." He shifts his gaze over to the trio bickering. He groans internally then forces a smile for you.

"Agreed." You cheer quietly with a "yes".

"Oi Law, why are you hiding such a cutie from us?" A voice speaks up.

"Yeah I want to greet her too." Another. You lean to your right as soon as Law whips his head over to two familiar jokesters and a big lovable oaf. Your uncle moves aside to get a better view.

"Shachi! Penguin! Jean!" You bounce with excitement.

"Hello sweetheart~" They coo. "My, you've grown big the last time we saw you. It's been almost three years."

"Yeah why is that? I miss you guys."

"Awe that's so sweet. Ya hear that Law? Your niece misses us." Penguin teases. Said man shoots the two a scowl intimidating them. "Like we mentioned, your uncle has us working our as-" Before Shachi could finish his sentence, his teeth collide with his tongue causing him to yelp in pain. You gasp, concerned for his well-being.

"What did I tell you about cursing in front of her?" Law sighs.

"O-oh right. We completely forgot about that precaution." Penguin murmurs.

"Precaution?" You ask. Penguin looks up to Law unsure of whether or not to tell you. He gives a nod of permission.

"We have a habit of cursing profusely and we're not used to being around kids so Law made a precaution with his powers to keep us from cursing. Your uncle cares about you a lot to be doing that for you." He sneers. Law growls at Penguin warning him. This did not faze the man. Your eyes sparkle with a hint of awe. The doctor averts his eyes blushing slightly. "Anyways kid, being in the medical field takes a lot out of your free time so we're always busy saving lives." He adds.

"Na we ah he to rest and pawty on our day oth." You tilt you head a few degrees to piece together what the redhead just said.

"He said, "now we are here to rest and party on our day off." You shape your lips as an 'o' after getting clarity. You then turn to Jean realizing he stood there awkwardly until he was acknowledged. He wasn't much of a talker. A man of a few words, but to you he was fun to hang around with. He gave a gentle vibe around you. A sense of security as if he was someone misunderstood.

"Fluffy!" You greet happily. That was your nickname to him because of his wicked, fluffy sideburns. The brute gives a blank stare before greeting you with a wide smile. He picks you up easily with one hand sitting you over his shoulder.

"Good to see you again Kid."

"Good to see you too." You reply. The laughter echoes from the dining table enough to catch Law's attention. As he enters the dining hall, Doflamingo and his pals along with Shanks and his friends are completely intoxicated. Slurring their words and passing jokes around. The scent of alcohol instantly fills the doctor's nostrils. He gags at the horrible scent. He didn't mind taking a sip or two of liquor, but the after scent is just disgusting to him.

"How long have they been at it?"

"About three hours." Sabo said.

"Three hours?" He gapes. "Great, this is my day off and already I'm probably going to have to supervise the group to prevent alcohol poisoning." He grumbles. "Sabo, right?" The blonde nods. "Do me a favor and stop passing drinks around and just have soda or water, even snacks as long as it doesn't smell strong got it?"

"I know what alcohol is. I've tried it before." He bluntly answers leaving you and Law surprised.

There is thirty minutes before midnight, your services were no longer needed as your family is clearly busy having fun to care for anything else. Luffy is on Shank's lap enjoying the left-over snacks listening in to his stories. Sabo is busy assistant your mom with something, you didn't know what. You search the room for one final brother in order to pass the time. From the corner of your eye you find, Ace removing his bow tie, unbuttoning his shirt as he walks upstairs slowly. You frown curious as to why he was so distant all day. You would catch him stealing glances at you. You push through the crowd desperate to follow him. You reach the top floor in search for the curly haired boy. You enter his room. It's dark with only but the moonlight to illuminate the silent room. The thin, white curtains flailing from the wind by the open window. You slowly walk over to it sticking your head out in search of the boy. Fortunately, he is there staring at the full moon to your left resting his arms over his knees which are pressed against his chest. You look down to see the height of where you stood. Yes, you are scared but Ace is your priority. This won every logic, scurried every fear away. Your brother clearly has something on his mind and you are the one to help get it out of him. So, without further a due, you took a deep breath and climbed out the window carefully watching your step and crawling your way to sit beside him. The sound of tiles alerts him. To his relief he meets you. He grumbles returning to his star gazing. You sat there silently gazing at the night sky with him in the cold. The snow slowly falling from the sky. Your eyes watch as each flake falls gracefully to its destination. The snow truly is a magical sight to foresee. A flake lands near Ace reverting you back to reality. You collected your thoughts, searching for the right words to say.

"Ace?" You start. For a moment you could have sworn you saw him shudder. This wasn't the cold, you knew what that was from close observation. He's nervous. Small puffs of his hot breath spew from his mouth reflecting fog. "Are you okay?" You finally ask. "You've been quiet all day like something is on your mind. You know you can always talk to me." The silence between you continues. A sigh of defeat escapes his chapped lips.

"I know. I'm just not used to asking for help or even asking for advice. I've...always had to deal with things alone to assure Luffy and Sabo that I'm fine. If I'm fine, everything is fine. Any sign of distress would cause a panic."

"Because you're the eldest. You have to do what's best even if it means repressing your feelings like it doesn't matter?" You guess. His eyes widen in shock.

"Uh...y-yeah how did you know?" You sadden yourself staring at nothing in particular.

"Because that's what I would do and have been doing for you guys as well. You three have done so much for me. Saved my life from a deep depression, made me stronger gave me a reason to look forward to every day." Your eyes begin to sting remembering. You unconsciously clasp your chest where your heart sits. "I know we've been together for a short time, but I can honestly say I love you guys dearly. You're practically my family now and the closest thing to friends or brothers I will ever get. I love you three." You say once more. Ace's cheeks begin to warm, his heart pounds faster and eyes soften filled with something he could not decipher.

"(Y/n) ..." He whispers. You sniffle wiping away your dry eyes. "I had no idea."

"Of course not. You guys would object to it wouldn't you? Just as you are doing? I would sacrifice anything to make you guys happy even if it means misery for me. You're all that matters." Ace takes your hand scooting close to you wrapping an arm over your shoulder. You came to the roof without a jacket. You were starting to get cold. Flame powers kick in making himself into a human heater for you. You giggle noticing at what he's trying to accomplish. You nuzzle against his chest. In response, Ace's blush starts to show, complementing his complexion.

"You're right. I guess I'm also doing the same thing." He scoffs realizing you both understood one another. For the first time he felt the weight lift just a little, yet his luggage is still heavy waiting for that to be lifted as well. "I feel the same way about you too (Y/n). I'm glad you care for me and my brothers." He sighs. "Thanks. It feels nice to talk about this. Almost like a relief. Both of you sat there admiring the snowfall like a million dancers moving gracefully. A glint of magic. Your ear is pressed against his chest and for a moment you could hear the drumming of his heart racing faster than normal. Instead of panicking you relax to the beat humming in tune. You have never felt so whole, so calm until now. You felt like nothing around you mattered just now. You even disregard the noise inside. Laughter, chattering and chanting. Chanting...something you felt is important.

"You're welcome Ace. We should go downstairs. It sounds like the countdown is starting." You look up at him. You blush watching his distant expression as if contemplating long about this. He pulls away holding your shoulders. His Onyx eyes lock onto your beautiful (e/c) filled with curiosity. You can hear the countdown starting as well as your heart starting to increase its beat as Ace leans in. You in response lean forward. You weren't sure why, but it felt like the right move.

5

His forehead is pressed against yours.

4

You see his eyes close and do the same as he tilts his head

3

It's cold but you can feel it as clear as day. His lips brushing against your asking for permission.

2

"Yes." You whisper in confirmation. Your heart drumming faster than you could possibly imagine.

1

Your lips finally crash. The kiss is unexperienced, but to you it's amazing it's your first and to him it's his first. Your entire being heating up to this sudden passion being expressed between the two of you. You didn't dare to move. You were enjoying his lips against yours. It felt so right. Your mind drew a blank and all you felt was time being stopped around you.

"HAPPY NEW YEAR'S!"

The words echo throughout the house. Fireworks are displayed in the background or rather your front of your house setting the mood. The passion between you two increased so much that his hands begin to wander from your arms to your face unsure where to place them wanting to do more. His passion is the embodiment of fire and carrying that flame caused unstable emotions to take form. The form of physical fire. It started as metaphoric sparks turning into actual sparks and his mouth to release a small amount of fire to burn your lips. You snap your eyes open pushing him away abruptly slapping your hand over your burned lips. You exhale a fogged breath. Slowly you remove your hand to unfold a burned lip. The moment is ruined that is certain. You turn your wide eyes to Ace. The once dazed boy is now filled with conviction over harming you. The last thing he ever wanted yet it seemed that's all he is capable of doing. Nothing sweet for him could ever last like a curse. You both attempt to catch your breaths staring at one another unsure how to go about this. Before you could assure you were fine, the boy made a mad dash past you. You in turn chase the boy.

"Ace wait!" You cry. You are in pursuit of him down the hall, determined to catch him. "Ace come back!" As soon as said boy reaches the last step, he is completely startled by the crowd pouncing him with a,

"Surprise! Happy Birthday Ace!" Festive confetti cones are popped and party whistles are blown filling the air followed by clapping and multiple colored balloons. You yourself halt on the second step confused. You had no idea it was Ace's birthday. You felt horrible now. Worse that you didn't even know your own brother's birthday!

"Look we surprised the hell out of him. Nice work guys!" Veronica chirps. Ace catches his breath completely lost as to what is happening.

"Happy Birthday buddy! This is from all three of us." Sabo hands Ace his present. Ace hesitantly takes it and stares at the gift for the longest. All eyes focused on him.

"Well, go on. Open it." Veronica urges. The boy unravels box. Inside is a new orange hoodie with his favorite anarchy 'A' symbol. He forces a smile on his face relieving everyone. "He likes it! Let's go blow out the candles."

"You get to make a wish!" Luffy said.

"And there will be more presents from us." Your mother pushes Ace forward and whispers to you, "(Y/n) go get the camera quick." You slowly head upstairs gluing your eyes to the freckled boy whom returned his gaze up to you. He looks away finally leaving you with an aching heart. Something so familiar you too could not define. In that moment you are left with your thoughts while you fetch for the camera.

The rest of the night is spent celebrating both, New Year's and mostly Ace's birthday. Today he experienced his first, genuine birthday. He was lost in the moment completely forgetting the moment you two shared like it was nothing. You watched him unwrap presents, part the cake while everyone fonds over the birthday boy. You stood to the side with a half-smile assuring you are fine. Your mother walks around Ace snapping photos for her memorable album.

It's been a long night, but to your relief, the party is over. You've never felt so happy to get a holiday over with. Today just seemed so awkward and heart wrenching while also sweet. You just wished things could have turned different. Did you truly wish that? You stop undressing losing yourself to your mind. After a long consideration, you supposed not. It's something you never imagined in your life. You weren't into boys. You thought they were immature and stupid like every kid. Well, except for Cara who seemed to be way into romance all because of her manga's. Thinking a fairy tale like that exists. You may have once upon a time thought that until bullying came to your life and thought more realistic. You put on your pajama shirt buttoning up every one then brushes your hair before bed. You flick the lights off and lay in bed. Staring at the ceiling made you think about something you didn't want to. You close your eyes remembering that small moment of passion shared between you and him. You never thought to like a boy in that way until now. Your fingertips slowly brush against your lip until you hiss as you pressed them against the burn. A burn no one noticed, thank goodness. A flashback of Ace and the kiss runs through your mind. The burning sensation. You never meant to hurt him. Never in that way. The look he gave you like a frightened puppy. Your heart ached so much tears prick from your eye lashes. You wanted to tell him, but now it's too late. That moment he turned away felt like a rejection.

"I'm sorry." You whisper. "I'm so sorry Ace." Your voice begins to crack as it's dry. "Happy Birthday....my Ace." Is all you could mutter once more before passing out from being emotionally exhausted.

Ace sneezes and shudders off the goosebumps as if his name was being said. He sniffles continuing to sweep up the mess in the living room. Shachi and Penguin being, to everyone's surprise, responsible goons stayed a while longer to help clean up. Shanks, the drunken bastard, remains seated holding an empty bottle of liquor in his hand. He tried licking off the droplets of alcohol from its bottle. Ace shakes his head in disapproval rolling his eyes and groaning at the fool.

"So, you're just goanna sit there old man?" He barks. The red head turns to Ace already swaying. His face completely flustered and reeked of liquor. His ridiculous smile widens.

"Heeeeeeyyy~......when did you get here?" He said. Ace puffs his cheeks and clenches his fist in annoyance. He furrows his brows remembering the kiss you two shared. He loosens himself up, hair dangling over his eyes to hide his face as he continues his chore.

"Never mind." Shanks raises a brow surprised. Shachi and Penguin enter the room with a large, garbage bag in hand already filled halfway. All they had left to clean is the living room while Law and Veronica cleaned the kitchen and everything else left behind. Jean became the designated driver for everyone taking everyone home one by one. He was their ride so he had to come back sometime soon.

"Something on your mind freckles?" Ace tenses to that name wanting to snap the stick from his hand. He shakes it off continuing to sweep.

"None of your business." He says bitterly.

"Really? Because I've just taunted you twice without you snapping." Shachi and Penguin listen in piqued.

"Is that normal for the kid?" penguin asks. Ace is irritated.

"Indeed, it is. He's a hot head and is easily angered. Why I bet talking about him behind his back right in front of him is making him angry." Shanks continues. The two guests turn to a shivering Ace snapping the broom. He turns around with fiery eyes. The two minions jump back to his growl.

"Shut up! I let it slide nicely but you just keep poking at it don't you?" He snarls. A knowing smirk crawls on the red head's face. "What?" Ace starts.

"There he is. Something is bothering you isn't it? You were repressing your anger. That's good. You're learning, but it also doesn't suit you unless something is on your mind. So...let's hear it kid. What's the matter?" Ace clicks his tongue.

"I don't have to tell you anything."

"Oh~ you really don't but it also doesn't help to keep it bottled inside either. Come on kid, what could happen if you tell an old geezer like me what's wrong? Who the hell am I goanna tell? I mean I certainly never told Vee about our little secret with the wood."

"Wood?" Shachi and Penguin ask.

"Whoops, slipped out. Don't tell her guys." Shanks warns in a lax tone but the aura around him said a totally different thing.

"U-uh s-sure." Penguin agrees. "We wouldn't even know the story anyways." He nervously chuckles as he returns back to cleaning. The room stood silent. Ace crossed his arms thinking. Now that you slipped from his hands, there really was no one else to talk to. It did help to let it out. He rolls his eyes giving in.

"Fine. I'll tell you." He lowers his gaze and bashfully rubs the back of his head. His breath shaky as he starts to speak, "Lately, I-I've been feeling weird. I'm not sure if it's a physical thing or mental, but I've been feeling nervous and I feel really different. The things I used to love to do just seem so boring to me and everything around me feels so new. I don't know how to explain it. I'm kind of worried. I even see (Y/n) differently. Not just her, but girls. They make me feel weird." Shachi and Penguin gape at him with shit eating grins. Ace switches gazes between the two searching for an answer. "W-what?" His face suddenly turns flustered. The two stifle a giggle turning to Shanks. Shanks clears his throat feeling the same as the two.

"Oooooooooh, I see. Well kid it seems you should have this talk with either Veronica or a man you trust very much."

"Why? I'm not sick, am I?"

"No not at all. What you're going through is a phase that everyone will have to go through eventually only girls and boys are different."

"Very different." Penguin adds. Ace is left even more confused.

"Would you just tell me? I don't care." He growls already irritated.

"Ace...right?" Shachi starts. The boy nods. "Well, Penguin and I are surgeon assistants and we can easily explain this to you."

"You're not sick just as Shanks said. It's a phase. A milestone." Penguin. "What you're experiencing is the early stages of being a pre-teen. You're not a child anymore, things that used to be fun when you were younger is now boring because you grew out of it. Some don't and some do. From that number on you cake I take it you turned eleven."

"That means by twelve you'll get a first glimpse of what a teen is like and how they act. Once you're thirteen..."

"It's welcome to puberty!" The two say in union.

"Puber....ty?" Ace staggers.

"Yep! The way you see girls is a glimpse of how you'll be seeing them from now on. No longer icky."

"Soft, beautiful babes." The two begin to daze off into their world with nose bleeds. Ace on the other hand is terrified.

"This has got to be like some kind of joke!" He pants heavily clasping his hair.

"Easy kid, easy. It's not all bad we promise. If you read a book about metamorphosis about a butterfly, that's kind of how humans bloom except for the whole bug and wings thing."

"Butterflies? You two idiots aren't making things any better!" He barks. "Whatever it doesn't matter. Forget I ever asked." The traumatized boy races upstairs to his room deciding to end the day hoping all of this is just a dream. Just as he lays in his bed his mind wanders over to you. The kiss shared, but not only that, the way you spoke his name like honey, your lips, alluring eyes your beauty, the way your hair follows behind you, everything you wore adorning your figure. You were so cute. A smile curves on his lips thinking about you. He chews on his lip thinking about your lips. Now for the first time, he no longer saw you as a sister anymore. He saw you as something more. Something he craved not just emotionally but physically as well. He wanted something he wasn't sure what is, but it burned in the back of his mind to catch it before it's too late.

(A/N): Eh? Fluffy enough? Let me know lovelies! Oh, Ace you grow up too fast my boy~