Another month has passes as you enter a new one. Nothing exciting has been happening now that the holidays has gone by other than Spring break and Easter, but it was mostly nearing the end of your childhood and the end of your fifth year before moving onto middle school. How exciting. That is the least thing on your mind. You are too busy being a kid to care for the future events. You usually take notice when the time is nearly a week away or at the very moment. For the past four weeks, you and William have been hanging out more often than usual to the point where he became a very close friend in trusting your secrets to even having him over to your house. Your first actual friend from school coming over to your house. It was a new experience. You didn't know what to do but provide a tour which eventually lead to small talk and soon became a normal routine. There were times where going to his house was a tempted question, but he assured you that he preferred to be at your place where it was less strict and laxer. Whenever you mentioned about his house he would just avert his gaze and give you a discomforting look as if to hint, "I don't want to talk about it. Ugh!" It was curious at first, but after a few times became funny to see the same face planted on him. The story of him and his parents at him were similar to that of Sabo's. The only difference was their love for their child. That lead Sabo to become a little close to the guy eventually gaining mutual trust within the two. Sabo would give him tips on escaping such events and anything too time consuming like studying almost every day. Luffy, well he loves almost everyone. He easily forgave the man after a week of apologizing to you. Such a naïve boy and kindhearted. Ace on the other hand was a tough cookie. He for some reason would be bitter whenever Will is around. Always acting like a jerk, giving him the silent treatment always harder on him than the three of you. William seemed to be unfazed by the unfair treatment which was good but you couldn't help but worry and hate Ace at the same time for his childishness.

The concept of having William around after school during a project became a permanent one. The idea that every afternoon he could escape the confines of his home and you wouldn't be left out all day. Sure, you would Skype your friends every now and then, but you didn't want to seem as clingy just because you are bored. A break from them would help you and them. All the more reason the idea was definitely a great one. So here you are hanging out with William in your room watching your favorite anime with, Thumper, your pet rabbit which you all settled on because of his constant stomping, but only because Luffy kept scaring him attempting to make him food. After sulking about it, Luffy gave up not wanting to see you so upset. You munched on a potato chip while sitting on the floor. William sat on his stomach doing his homework with you. Commercials cut in displaying Super Chopper.

"Man, what is it with that cartoon that Luffy sees? It looks so stupid." William's emerald eyes scroll over to the screen on your laptop.

"Super Chopper? It's a good show if you just want to mindlessly need some entertainment. The only good thing about it is this show is possibly the only kids show where they give you life lessons. That's rare to see that nowadays." He chuckles.

"Hmm...sounds like you're defending the show, while at the same time providing insight like pros and cons. Not bad. I wouldn't know if you're siding with me or against." You tease. He rolls his eyes smirking.

"I'm simply explaining my opinion on it. Nothing else. I'm not going to side with anyone if that's what you're asking."

"Wise choice young, Padawan." You both burst out into fits of laughter. A tear is wiped off your eye as yo both sigh.

"Hey, how are you feeling?" You tilt your head a few degrees. "You know, about Ace and all?" You widen your eyes. Blush spreads on your cheek. You swallow your food while collecting your thoughts.

"O-oh that. Well, I'm fine..." You sigh hugging your arms as if to securing yourself. "I'm fine." You shake your head trying to focus. "I've decided that he doesn't want to talk about it. I think it's best. The pain has subsided." He raises a brow as if to say, 'really?' He wasn't buying it. You fiddle with your fingers. "Okay fine it still hurts a little, but what can I do? I really don't want to talk about it. If Ace doesn't have anything to say why should I? I mean I feel like I'm going crazy feeling this way. It's stupid. I've never felt anything like this until my brothers showed up and now it feels entirely different, but even worse, Ace manages to flip it upside down furthering my frustration." You tug on your hair followed by a groan. William pull your hands away from your hair.

"Oh, (Y/n) you shouldn't have to feel that way. I honestly don't know what to say or do since I've never been in that situation. However, I have been told that talking about it is enough to help with any situation. You may not have a resolve, but I know you will find one when the time comes. I just hope it comes sooner. Until then I will help in any way I can." A warm smile curves your lips.

"Thanks, Will."

"No problem." Intense drama echoes from the speakers of your laptop brining you back. "Let's just finish our anime. I hear the next episode gets good and leaves with a cliffhanger." Just like that, you are easily distracted.

"No way? Really? That is definitely a must watch then." As you watch, you couldn't help but be grateful for William's company. He really has gone a long way since then. It's hard to believe things have changed. Change. The word that tortures you. A word you are afraid of. The same word that seems to be affecting Ace and Sabo. You feel you're not far behind to follow.

Meanwhile, a score board is held near the training grounds produced by the brothers. Grass covered the lot instead of soil and bark. It was practically a meadow where they stood. No complications nor disturbance from anyone or anything. Luffy shot his gummy arm past Ace whom pulls on it and spinning him in circles lifting the squirt off the ground. He then slams him straight into the ground after jumping at an extreme height. Luffy is left dazed on his back. His hand automatically retracts flipping his body over. Ace lands safely onto the ground.

"One point for Ace. Luffy..." He frowns seeing his chart barren of points. "Zero." He said. "Again."

"Not a surprise. That was more like a warm up than a challenge, but I still say you're getting better Little bro." Ace grins victoriously. Luffy shakes out of his daze and huffs.

"One day you'll see!"

"Until then," Sabo tosses the chalk back trying to do a surprise attack on Ace. "It's my turn!" He throws a jab, Ace dodges swiftly by a mere inch. He staggers backwards astonished.

"Nice try Sabo but you're going to have to do better than that." He sprints forth tossing his punch and kicks. Each one blocked or countered. Luffy watches intently with large, beady eyes. The extent of their brother's abilities motivated him to do better and each day he has progressed even a little as confirmed by Ace. Sabo dropped his guard when his brother suddenly appeared from behind sending a swift kick to his back. The blonde is launched straight into a tree. He gags as he holds his sides in pain.

"Damn." Sabo growls. Nonchalantly, Ace marks a point for himself. A cheeky grin adorning his features.

"Another point for me and Sabo Zero. Which in total brings me to a lead. Meaning I won for today." He cackles.

"Yeah, well just wait till I kick your ass one day. I'm not that far away either so enjoy while it lasts, Tsun-tsun." Sabo taunts. The raven-haired boy clasps the chalk tightly breaking it in half. He growls and flicks a half chalk over to his head earning a whine.

"Shut up! Only mom can call me that!" He barks. Everyone goes wide eyed including Ace. Silence filled the air. The boy slaps a hand over his mouth flustered.

"D-did you just..." Sabo starts.

"No."

"Yes, you did." Sabo continues to poke.

"No, I didn't!" He shakes his head in denial.

"Ace! We heard you man. You said, "mom"."

"Shut up! You must have misheard idiot."

"No way, we heard you loud and clear."

"Ace called Veronica, 'mom'~!" Luffy chants teasingly. His finger pointed to him in accusation as he danced around like a fool. Ace groans, aggravated.

"So, what? Yeah, I called Veronica, "mom" but that was an accident. I didn't mean to let it slip." He huffs crossing his arms. The blush remained on his cheeks.

"Chill Ace. That's fine. We just wanted to know if we heard right. I really don't blame you if you called her mom I mean..." He stops himself starting to get carried away. A blush forms on his face too embarrassed to say any further.

"What?" Ace insists. "Say it."

"W-well It's just that I mean that, it's not a bad idea to start calling Veronica mom now. She's the longest guardian we've ever had and in truth we're halfway into the year. Not to mention our life here has gotten us accustomed. The thought of going anywhere else without them or even coming back here doesn't feel right. I wouldn't want to be anywhere but here. This place is home guys. Or at least to me." His eyes cast genuine honesty. They glimmered brighter than any reason he's given. The boys stood in thought. Never bothering to laugh and make fun of him because in truth the two felt the same. All in the same boat only Sabo said it out loud to verify. The only thing keeping them from fully believing is the odd sensation of having to call someone "mother". An undefined word in their vocabulary so foreign that they weren't sure the trio could grow accustom. It isn't impossible just life changing for them. Each one of them held a parent. Luffy knew only of his grandfather and father whom were still alive, Ace knew more of his father than his own mother even after his death, and Sabo knew both but the most one he used to bond to is his father. How he did everything in his power to please him, how his father lectured him into making wise decisions, searching every inch for him when he ran away more than his mother. The word mother is something they never truly had nor felt until now.

Ace leans against a tree. "I don't know, sounds weird to call her mom. I don't know if I'll ever be able to. She's great an all like Makino. Kind, caring, always there for us no matter what, tough when she has to just to set us right." He sighs running his hand through his hair. "I don't know." Luffy moves between Sabo and Ace conflicted himself.

"I want to.... call Veronica....mommy but not unless you guys do. I don't want to call her that only for us to one day leave like our old foster parents." He frowns lowering his gaze. Sabo and Ace share a look.

"Luffy..." Is all Sabo could manage to say unsure what to say to cheer the boy up.

"Look we promised we'd stay and we are Luffy. You don't have to worry about that. If you want to call her that then by all means. That's you not us. I'm not ready and I'm not sure when."

"Okay. I'm still going to wait until you both say it just to make sure." Ace rolls his eyes. Silence once again settled between them.

.

.

.

"So, does that mean you like Veronica calling you Tsun-tsun?" Sabo teases. A tick mark forms over Ace scolding him on his head.

"Drop it already!" Sabo and Luffy laugh hysterically.

Later that evening, the trio enter to find you eating with William at the dinner table. Ace grew bitter instantly. Sabo and Luffy went on their way to clean up as per usual. Daggers are stared towards Will whom is engulfed in the conversation. Sabo rolls his eyes dragging the jealous boy with him.

"I just don't get it. Why is he here all the time? Doesn't he have a home to go home to or parents?" Ace grumbles while washing his hands. His brothers locked the door to talk in the bathroom in hopes of privacy.

"Well from what he's told us, he certainly does have parents and that they're strict on his credentials so it's understandable why he's always around us trying to keep away from home."

"What so you are buddy, buddy with him all because he has a similar background like yours?" Sabo scowls briefly at him.

"No. I'm just stating the facts. Reasons why he's around. If you take the time to observe actions and learn about the person you get a general idea of who they are and what they're capable. Something that's important in a business we are trying to work under in the future if you don't want yourself to get killed Ace." Sabo retorts. "He's not a bad kid. (Y/n) has taking a liking to him and clearly, they're like best friends now since every afternoon we ditch her. She's just lonely."

"She's probably taken too much of a liking to him. I mean she kissed his cheek on Valentine's day."

"So?" Sabo said. "She kisses our cheek as gratitude. Why is this any different?" Ace grumbles trying hard to spill what he wants to yet couldn't. He didn't know what he wanted to say. He was jealous. That was the fact that he clearly didn't know. He was just angry at that boy for being around you. All he could do is spit accusations just so he could get his brother to turn against William and to his own side.

"Because he's not our brother. He's a friend. Friends can turn into something more." Sabo and Luffy tilt their heads clueless. Ace becomes flustered from both frustration and embarrassment.

"We're technically not related. We're friends. William is just a friend. That's all (Y/n) sees. I still don't understand why you're so upset about this?"

"Yeah Will's a good guy. He helps with my homework sometimes. He watches Super Chopper with me."

"See? Luffy likes him. Why can't you?"

"Because there is something fishy about all of this. I don't know what it is but it just doesn't ease me. I don't like it. I don't like him at all." He stomps his foot like a child gritting his teeth with fury. His eyes nearly bulging out of his eyes out of anger.

"Well it's three out of one Ace. You're going to have to deal with it. I'm always at your side no matter what, but I really don't see the problem this time." Sabo and Luffy dismiss themselves. Ace is left alone. He stares at his reflection after splashing water on his face. He lets out an exasperated sigh realizing how stupid he's acting. Slowly he clenches his shirt over where his heart is. Ever since that day you have made him feel so many things. Guilt, sadness and now jealousy. Something he has yet to learn its name but knows it's real. He drops his head against the sink trying to fix his composure.

He's poked his dinner for the past hour listening to William's blabbering bored out of his mind.

"Wow Mrs. Suzuki! This is delicious. So warm and cheesy."

"It's just Mac and Cheese Will." She chortles.

"Still, it's great. I've never had any at home. Just a bunch of vegetables mixed with more vegetables and Tofu."

"Sounds bland." She frowns. "But not to worry. As always you may take some home if you get hungry again." Veronica heads into the kitchen to prepare a Tupperware of leftovers for the boy.

"Thanks, Mrs. S. You're the best."

Luffy swallows his fold before agreeing. "Yep! That's Veronica for you. She knows how to please people's stomachs. Shishishishi."

"Suck up. "Ace mutters after taking a bite of his food. Sabo frowns at the bitter boy. William heard him clearly but decided to ignore it as usual. A container of leftovers is placed near William by your mother. She ruffles the blonde's hair earning a chuckle.

"So, Sabo, your birthday is coming up. What would you like to do?" The boy halts. He shyly thinks to himself. Nobody has ever asked him what he wanted. People would always just pick for him.

"Um...can it be anything?" The woman nods in confirmation. "Oh well-"

"Say you want near. Meat. Meat. Meat." Luffy whispers. Sabo pushes his face out of his.

"Shut up. I got it already." He huffs. "I'm not quite sure really." The snow haired woman looks up at the ceiling. Her index finger pressed against her lips while thinking.

"Well, we can go anywhere you like or plan a party here. We can go to a book store, shopping, buy you some toys of your choosing." Sabo sweat drops.

"Yeah I got that." Veronica rubs the back of her head sheepishly.

"Sorry I guess that doesn't exactly help either. How about we start with something simple? We'll start by going out to eat. Any place in particular?"

"How about Little Garden's Burger Palace? I hear they make the biggest meals. It's almost as if the foods are made from dinosaurs." Veronica chuckles.

"No, dear. The theme is prehistoric like the age of dinosaurs is what I believe the ad meant, but sure we can go there after school. Now is there any place you'd like to go afterwards?"

"Honestly this may sound corny but I want to go to a bookstore afterwards." Ace and Luffy look at him in disbelief. "Not boring literature like you guys presume. I mean to get the latest issue of one of my favorite comics." The boy's purse their lips finally understanding.

"Okay! Any other place?"

"Oh, and a video game that came out just recently." All eyes light up.

"You mean?" Ace insists. Sabo smirks and nods.

"Yes! Sabo that's awesome!" Luffy cheers.

"Um...okay. Yeah. Anything else?"

"Nah, I'm done." A brow is raised.

"Really? You're just going to be a shut in for your birthday? Why don't you invite some friends or something? We'll make a party."

"Mom, the only friend we made is William. Everyone else is scared of us for being, "Neanderthals." You quote.

"Bastards." She mumbles. "I-I mean how rude." She fake huffs.

"Apparently since they saved me, they are considered something out of this world. Rich kids are snobs." You snort.

"I'm sorry guys. I was hoping you guys would at least make some friends." Ace clicks his tongue.

"It doesn't matter. We don't want to be friends with a bunch of snobs. Whinny, overrated pricks."

"Ace! Lenguaje! * " Your scolds. Ace cringes after apologizing. "Well, at least William is a friend. Would you like to join us dear?"

"Me?"

"Of course!" She chirps.

"Um...well I don't know. It's up to Sabo. I really wouldn't want to intrude."

"I don't think that's a bad idea. I'm sure Sabo doesn't mind." You start. "Right bro?" Bro. The word stung him for a moment. It is indeed the right word for their bond, yet it felt more wrong than ever.

"Uh, yeah." He shook his head out of his thoughts before losing himself. "Yes! You should come along. I really don't mind. In fact, it wouldn't be fun without you. Technically you are part of our group now."

"Well okay! If you say so." William chirps. "I'd be delighted to go."

"Great, after school I'll pick you guys up. Be sure to inform your mother Will."

"I will. Speaking of which I better get home. Thanks for dinner Mrs. S."

"I'll walk you out." You push yourself out of your seat to walk him to the door. William always managed to leave before the stars were up just to make it home safely. His mother however disapproved at first before getting used to his routines. Although he did not like his rebelliousness, his father had insured his wife that its merely a phase or rather the start of his milestone as a tween.

Friday morning, St. Patrick's Day, Luffy climbed down the stairs with his brothers half asleep. Bedhead and clothes in a wrinkle half assed. "It's so early. I don't want to go. I want to sleep." He groans.

"That is if you want to do chores all day as punishment." Veronica teases. The straw-hat forces himself awake while smoothing his shirt. The woman chuckles amused helping Luffy. "Okay, let's get going."

"Wait what about (Y/n)?" Sabo asks.

"She won't be going to school today. She woke up with a cold and it's starting to hit her hard with each passing minute. Currently she has a fever. Guess that means I have to take you to take your shots again." All three jolt instantly slapping a hand over their arm where they were given a shot. "Not to worry I told my boss I'll be taking a day off to take care of her. You can see here after school."

"But we can stay and help." Luffy insists.

"Nice try kiddo, but you still have to go to school without her." They groan. "Hey! I know you guys can go on without her. It's just for today. I'm sure she'll get better in no time." The trio drag themselves towards the car bummed out.

Sabo kicks the dirt off the ground as he rocks himself on a swing. Luffy swung himself casually to pass the time. Ace leaned against the bar of the swing set with arms crossed over his chest in thought. "I can't believe (Y/n) is sick. It feels so weird without her."

"Yeah. Well there isn't much we can do besides be patient."

"Well we could head over to her room afterwards and help care for her. She'll need to catch up on homework which definitely sucks, but all the more reason to help so she won't be left behind."

"I guess, but who really cares about scores and grades and stuff? It all sounds so boring."

"That's just how the system works in order to survive in the modern world." Sabo said. Luffy and Ace stare at Sabo like a nutcase. The blonde peers at both of them quizzically. "What?"

"You've been reading too many books." Ace said. "It's making you sound like those crazy people. Rebels." Sabo puffs his cheeks making Ace laugh. The freckled boy yelps and rubs his arm. He pinches Sabo.

"Owe! What the hell?" He pinches Ace back.

"You pinched me!"

"I didn't pinch you." On cue, they Yelp as they are pinched. Both of them scowl at Luffy. He tilts his head. Suddenly giggles echo through their ears. They whip their heads over to the culprit. Two boys sneering. Ace instantly snaps pouncing onto one of the boys starting the beating. Sabo tugs him back.

"Ace! Ace! Stop! That's enough!" The boy is left with a nose bleed and a few bruises left behind on his face after halting. The other boy is left paralyzed in fear.

"Why the hell did you pinch me? You asking for a fight?" The boy below him grunts in pain. Ace shifts to the other boy. "You! Talk!"

"W-we we're simply following the rules of St. Patrick's Day."

"St. What?"

"The time of year where if you don't wear green you get pinched." Ace's eye twitches.

"So that gives you the right to pinch us? You have a lot of balls to even-"

"Young man! What have you done?" A yard duty cries out.

"Shit." He mutters.

Ace was sent to the principal's office to give his statement and of course is punished for acting with violence which he quotes that, "I'm not a snitch" causing him be punished further. After his release, the students persist on the traditional pinch if you're not wearing green. Though it was enough to fuel Ace's anger, he didn't want to deal with having to fight some kids that are just being annoying brats. It would be double the trouble and a hassle to having to hear the boring lectures. To everyone's surprise, he maintained his composure for the benefit of himself and the school It was just one day. Just as his guardian had mentioned.

By the time the boys got home and settled in, they decided to skip training and visit you. You sat on your bed watching videos on your laptop. Your face sickly, pale. You wipe your nose with a tissue and greet the group with a smile. Seeing Ace made you feel bashful as you didn't feel pretty yet you stuck it together.

"Hey guys. How was your first day of school without me? You didn't miss me, did you?"

"No." They deadpan. You frown in disappointment.

"Oh." Luffy shivered slightly then violently before pouncing on you with a hug.

"That's a total lie! Of course, we missed you (Y/n)!" He cries. The lovable oaf nuzzles your cheek. You chuckle gladly hugging him back.

"Yeah, we can't lie. It was pretty boring without you. No notes to send to, no nada."

"Well besides the pinching but I'd say it was just as boring without you than with you." Ace adds. Sabo and Ace rub their arms.

"Pinching?"

"Yeah, it's like St. Patrick's Day or something." Your eyes light up recalling. You begin to laugh as you could picture your brother's clueless reaction to the pinching. You then pinched each one of them.

"You're not wearing green. You get pinched. I forgot to tell you that." You yelp getting a triple pinch from each of them.

"You're not wearing any on you either." You pout then laugh alongside them.

It's next Friday, Sabo's birthday. As promised, Veronica picked up everyone including William. The first spot you enter is Little Garden's Burger Palace. The inside was themed like a prehistoric era. Lots of beautiful plants with dinosaurs and fossilized dinosaurs taking space. The ceiling glowed blue as if being inside an ice cave. For a childish place it sure had pizzazz. You take a seat in between Ace and William. You felt jittery when he sat next to you. Those butterflies started to flutter in your belly again. You tried your best to ignore them and stay calm. Instantly, you buried your face in the menu. You read each and every one mindlessly screaming at your body to relax. You took a few breaths before finally focusing on the menu. Easily you were lost to each picture and what they had to offer. By the size the meal they seemed extremely large. You move over to the kid's section and find them decent. You figured, one day of eating something big wouldn't be hard. So, you picked a simple burger with fries. The abundant number of fries are enough to satisfy you and you could always give your burger to your bottomless pit of a brother. At least one of them. You set your menu down having settled on a decision. Not long did your waitress appear taking your orders and return with them in ten. There weren't a lot of customers during the weekday. Throughout the entire meal you were busy admiring the boisterous friends in the kitchen. One is a brunette with a long beard. It reminded you of a biker. The other held the same aura only his hair was a dirty blonde color and his beard is shorter. His belly however stuck out more. From time to time you could feel a few fingers brushing against your leg as if to reach for your hand. You blush knowing who's it is. Ace. You would lower your glance to your hand to see his hand slowly moving towards you. A small smile creeping on your lips as you ate. Your body moved on its own as you moved your hand closer to the edge for him to hold. Gladly you let his fingers brush against your palm. A cold shiver runs through your spine and blood rushes to your cheeks. You shook your head to gain focus. You dared to shift your gaze to the corner to peer at Ace. He too held the same focused expression on his face as he ate like nothing is bothering him. You couldn't believe his dexterous façade. He finally locks eyes with you from the corner of his vision. A lopsided smile adorning his face. You avert your gaze as your blush rises to the tip of your ears. The feeling of his fingers curling in between yours locking hands made your heart throb rapidly. Damn that boy. Luckily nobody noticed as they are too focused on eating or the conversation.

You couldn't believe it. Ace held your hand under the table. Such an adrenaline. So, intoxicating as if trying to keep your love a secret. Some sort of forbidden love. Why? He was just holding your hand, right? No big deal for siblings to hold hands, right? Well the only difference is that you're not related so it means something. Or you thought. You shook your head as return to reality. Dinner was over, your focus was on well.... nothing really. You were at a damn bookstore. You wrote but you didn't much read unless it was fanfiction. You wandered aimlessly around with William until he stopped. You bumped into his back wondering the sudden stop. He turns to you with gleaming eyes. In his grasp is a manga. One that you both have been talking about to see. You both open the book and read through it excitedly.

Now while you two are preoccupied with manga's, Sabo was busy picking the last issue of his favorite comic book. Eventually he picked at least seven issues including the latest. William insisted on buying Sabo his expensive comic books as a gift to him. You couldn't believe an eleven-year-old held a credit card. He could get all the sweets he wanted. Why all of a sudden show you now? He says it's because, he never actually had one till recently when he turned eleven. His parents practically threatened him that if he ever bought candy they would know taking his card away. The card was worth keeping to help pay for things he wanted. Typical rich family you thought, but you also couldn't help but pity him since his family was also barely around. Spoiling was the way to show their affection as any parent would think. Sabo and Luffy were so impressed, but even more Sabo was thankful for his generosity. Not long after leaving the book store did you head to Game Stop next door to buy a game they've been waiting for months.

Once home, you all settled in the living room where the music is blasted and the television displayed high definition. Your brother's eyes nearly bulging out at its graphics. The beauty of a game developers works. It was indeed sweet but you weren't that absorbed. You and William sat on a bean bag chair near the boys. You sat behind them watching intently. A sigh escapes William's lips after reading halfway of the comics he bought Sabo.

"What's wrong?"

"Oh nothing. This comic brought up a subject I was hoping to avoid." You frown and sit up properly to hear him out. You raise a brow gesturing him to continue. "Summer is coming soon. We'll have this month and next before we get summer vacation. For my vacation I'm going to band camp. I'll be the biggest geek if I go there. Once we reach high school, I'm sure I'll get beat up. It's the rules of the jungle according to my big brother."

"You have a big brother?" You ask.

"Yeah, he's barely a freshman in high school." He sighs.

"I really don't see the problem. Summer camp is fun. You get to do many activities."

"While that's true. Band camp isn't exactly lax (Y/n)." You pout feeling disappointed to cheer him up. An idea pops up.

"Hey! Luffy, Ace, and Sabo are joining me for camp this summer. It's going to be their first time. Maybe you can come with us. It will be fun!" William's eyes light up with hope.

"Really? That would be fun! But..." He frowns starting to overthink. "I'm not sure my parent's will let me go. I mean they're very strict and have incredible standards."

"Oh, I know. Just leave that up to me." You sneer. What you did next was easy. You walked up to your mother and asked for her help. Your mother being a cool mom, gladly agreed to help William. She contacted his mother and kindly asked or rather persuaded, his mother into going to camp with promises of having an outstanding record and still following the same band activities. It took a few attempts and coaxing, but your mother reeled her into defeat.

"You won't be disappointed Mrs. Jones. Thank you. Have a good one." She hangs up the phone with a victorious smile. "Well, I did it yall. I got your mom to give you permission into coming to, Camp Hazelwood!" You both gasp and cheer with delight.

"You hear that Will? You're going to camp with us." You squeal bouncing up and down. He chuckles amused.

"Thank you so much Mrs. S. Same to you (Y/n). I can't wait till summer now. I'm not even sure if I can even contain my excitement when the time comes." The trio of boys enter the room in question.

"What's going on?" Sabo asks.

"William is coming to camp with us." Luffy smiles bright joining you with a bounce. Sabo puts on a fake smile.

"That's great man. I'm sure we'll have a lot more fun together now." Sabo pats his back. Ace is left irked and heads upstairs.

The day was ending, it's now midnight. Ace is forced to have William sleep in his room to his dismay. The reasoning being he is the eldest and is in charge of taking care of your guest since all of you are friends. If friend even is the correct word for William to Ace. He stares at the ceiling annoyed. The boy kept bantering about nonsense he lost track of. He had hoped he would shut up, but the boy was too damn nice to take freaking hint. The freckled boy groans into his pillow.

"Anyways, my aunt Maggie got me a pet turtle which I ended up losing whom I called, Austin. I wonder if he's having fun somewhere. Chilling. You know?"

"At least somebody is having peace and quiet." Ace retorts. William flinches to his harsh words. He keeps silent for a moment. A sigh of relief escapes the boy. "Finally." He closes his eyes for a moment hearing nothing but silence and the muffled crickets outside. Alas, all hope of sleep drifts away as he hears shuffling noises and a small sigh. Ace looks over to the boy finding him sad as he hugs his knees. Conviction fills the boy's being. He pinches the bridge of his nose regretting what he is about to ask. He knew it's the right call but hated himself for being soft. "What's wrong Will?"

"Nothing you should go to sleep." He murmurs turning towards the window. The moon bright in the sky glistening beautifully. Ace furrows his brows. He sits up properly.

"Look it's my job to take care of you and make sure you get some sleep no matter what it is. If.... you have a problem tell me. I'm all ears." Will shifts a little and looks up to him.

"It's not me that has a problem. It's you."

"Eh?"

"You don't like me very, much do you? You've hated me since the day I came along. You don't even want me here." He clenches his sheets. Ace does the same reflecting the same pain. He felt horrible. He was being a total jerk to William. A nice kid since his redemption and all he's done is terrified him. Sabo was right, he was being baby. William wasn't as fault nor does he even know why he's being tormented to begin with. Setting aside his anger, Ace begins to confess seeing as he deserves it.

"I didn't at first no. I don't mean to be mean towards you. I honestly have no idea why. I'm still trying to figure it out myself. You shouldn't be treated badly because of me. The truth is, I get a little upset when you're around (Y/n)." William widens his eyes in surprise.

"What? Why?"

"I don't know. I get angry when any boy is around her. I haven't a clue what I'm feeling and I can't control it. I feel like punching everyone in the face who even looks at her. Who comes near her. I just have the urge to make her mine. Mine alone. Like she's...my treasure." He mumbles bashfully. William's lips shape an 'o' realizing what he's going through.

"I know how you feel." He starts.

"You do?" Ace raises his head. Now it's his turn to be surprised.

"I felt the same when I liked Olivia. I mean I still do sadly. I don't know if it will ever go away, but the way you're feeling is something I went through. You like (Y/n)."

"Of course, I do. She's my sister."

"No Ace, I mean like, like (Y/n)." Onyx eyes widen to his accusation. "I think they call it love. You love (Y/n). Not like a sister but romantically. You want to kiss her right and be honest. I promise I won't tell." The ravenette contemplates for a moment.

"Y-yes."

"You want to hold her hand?"

"Yes."

"Be around her all the time?"

"Always." He scoffs.

"You think about her a lot, don't you?"

"Yeah." He smiles fondly already thinking about you. His body hums at the thought of having you near him.

"Then it's love." Ace clenches and unclenches his sheets processing the idea in unsure what to think of it. He knew of it and it no longer disgusted him. He would usually be that way and in denial, but the change in him is starting to kick in.

"Love?" He whispers unsurely.

"Yep. Love. I don't know much about the feeling but I hear it's beautiful and also painful at the same time."

"Sounds about right." Ace mutters. Will chuckles already knowing the similar pain.

"Have you.... ever tried telling her or doing anything about it?" The question frightened the boy. He didn't want to confess to you if you didn't feel the same. He hurt you. You probably still feel that awkward with him because of that. His heart aches like he's been poked a million times in one beat.

"No. I don't think she likes me in that way. I probably frightened her since that day. Everything is just awkward. I feel if I press the matter I'll scare her away even more. I wouldn't blame her. The truth of the matter is, I don't deserve it. She should have someone better." William frowns.

"Ace, that's not true. I believe she does like you. Maybe if you talked to her-" The boy shook his head.

"Nah Will, it's fine. We'll just leave it as it is. For the better. Trust me. She wouldn't want the burden of having my name." Will couldn't comprehend what he was talking about. He didn't want to pry. He managed to get this close to Ace. He didn't want to damage and hope of friendship. He nods in agreement.

"You know it's going to be hard to get over her. You practically live with her."

"I'll just pretend Will. I'm good at that. Right?" Ace smiles wide. The blonde is taken aback. He felt sad for the boy.

"Yeah, you sure are.

"Oh and Will. Sorry for being a jerk. Keep this between us. Okay...pal?" Will gives a half smile to the word 'pal'.

"Of course, Ace. I promise. Good night."

"Night Will." The entire night, Ace and Will are left thinking. Ace thought about you. He couldn't forget you or the feeling. The more he tried the more his heart tugged with pain. William on the other hand pitied the two of you. Both of you have mutual feelings for each other yet you guys are too stubborn to confront or see that. Will felt like you two are indeed the perfect two. If only he could help. Would the brothers approve and help Ace or did they feel the same as he? Regardless. William was alone on this journey. Something he had to keep quiet for both yours and Ace's sakes. A burden of a promise that will nag him for years.

(A/N): Welp! That's it guys. The last Holiday and yay happy birthday Sabo~ I'm glad we're done with that boring marathon xD now for the good stuff. Summer my nemesis. *hisses* Anyways, I'm not going to do Easter cause I really have no ideas, but I do however promise to do one when they are teens as a make-up. I have a perfect plan in session for when that event comes. A good one indeed. I'm glad you enjoyed please give me feedback, Luffy birthday is up next what would you like to see? Let me know :D

*Lenguje- Spanish for Language