Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“We’ve done nothing but lose lately. Can’t you at least think before you act, Luffy? Just once? Don’t you have any type of strategy in that thick head of yours?” It was too much. Too many losses, too much running. All because Luffy didn’t think before he acted. Just went all in without a strategy. Without thinking about his crew. His friends. His family.

“But I’m strong enough, I don’t need much strategy! Come on, Sanji, you’re a good fighter! You don’t need to think much before you act. You just go! Zoro too! And it was really only that one time we had to run! We don’t ever really lose .”

“Of course I do! I always do. Whether it’s fighting or cooking, or preparing meals, I always think ahead of time. And we had to run because our dumb swordsman got shot.”

“Aww, Sanji,” Luffy whined, “You know we’ll always have each other's backs! Isn’t that what matters?” Zoro nodded casually in agreement. Watching the cook closely. Chopped was currently tending to his bullet wound. It wasn’t that serious; the cook was over exaggerating. 

“You’re both morons! It’s times like this where I wish I had never joined this damn crew!”

“Sanji, you don’t mean that!” Nami gasped, the first time she added her opinion to this conversation, or fight, or whatever it was they were having. After all they’ve been through, Nami knew Sanji didn’t mean that. He couldn’t. This isn’t the Sanji she knew. This wasn’t the Sanji anyone knew. Nami knew how much Sanji cared about everyone.

“I’m getting out of here,” 

“But Sanji-” Luffy began, reaching out to him. To stop him. He couldn’t lose Sanji. Not again. Not after fighting so hard to get him back.

“Luffy, just leave him be for now, give him some time. He’ll come to his senses.” Robin added in. She knew it to be true; they all did. Sanji just needed a little bit of time. Some fresh air and time away to let off some steam, and then Sanji would be back to normal.

He didn’t venture far, really just needing to get away for a bit. Not having the energy to listen to Luffy's insistent rambling, or Usopp trying to explain himself, or even that stupid swordsman, glaring at him with his one eye.. He just needed a breath of fresh air before he reunited with his crew. His family. 

“Is it true?” The deep voice came out of nowhere, causing Sanji to jump. He was usually well aware of his surroundings; his thoughts were just too loud at the moment.

“Who the hell are you?” He asked, trying to see through the cloak covering the man's face. The man didn’t sound or seem familiar. And where the hell did he even come from so suddenly?

“I’ll ask you again, is it true?” The cloaked man asked, voice accusingly questioning the blond.

“Is what true?” 

“That you wish you had never joined your crew?” How did this cloaked man even know? Could he read his thoughts or something?

“Sometimes, yeah. I just wonder what my life would be like under different circumstances.” Sanji shrugged, lighting a cigarette. It was true. His mind swam too deeply sometimes, wondering what things would be like if things had been different. What if Zeff had never saved him? What if Reiju had never helped him escape? What if his crew had never shown up at Baratie that day?

“Perhaps a different…universe?” The cloaked man questioned, seeming almost amused. Sanji could hear the smirk in his voice.

“Sure, whatever, anything, anywhere, is better than here.”

“I’m sure you’ll see about that soon enough.”

“Wait! What do you mean-” A sharp hit on the back of his neck, and all Sanji saw was darkness.

Chapter Text

Everyone is changing, there's no one left that's real

So make up your own ending and let me know just how you feel

'Cause I'm lost without you, I cannot live at all

My whole world surrounds you, I stumble and I crawl

Hot. 

His body feltso fucking hot. 

Like he had been thrown into a pit of magma. The heat was trailing throughout his veins, throughout his body, sending little currents of electricity into his very core. It was uncomfortable and incredibly unbearable. He had never felt this sensation before. It was odd. Painful. It felt like he had an itch that he couldn’t scratch. An itch that, for some reason, he felt only another person could scratch to make him feel better. Not to mention, he felt uncomfortably horny. And not just his dick being hard. He felt an uncomfortable, odd, and wet sensation even lower, coupled with the intense sensation of wanting to be filled.

“Nnn,” He groaned in pain, a breathless whimper. What the hell had happened to him? What did that stranger do to his body to make him feel this way? And where was he? He could definitely feel the presence of another. But it was...a soothing presence. He felt safe. Like he could let go, and this person would help him, keep him safe, and protect him without making him feel worthless.

A cold cloth was laid gently on his forehead; it barely helped, but it was nice, and it helped cool him down at least a tiny bit. Better than nothing.

“I know little eggplant, I know.” A calm, deep voice soothed him. Sounded empathetic, like he felt bad but didn’t pity him. Like he just wanted to help with whatever the hell was going on with him.

“Try to relax. I’m here for you.” He knew that voice. Zeff? But what was he doing here? And where exactly was here? How could Zeff be here, in the new world? How could he get there so quickly?

And then all of a sudden, Sanji could smell it. He didn’t even understand how or why, but he could smell Zeff. A soothing blend of the ocean and soft cedar-wood. It was indescribable, but he felt so comforted and safe. Like he knew he could let go, and Zeff would protect him, like the father he was. 

“Wh…Zeff?” Slowly opening his eyes, at this angle, he was looking up at the ceiling of his room, back at Baratie.  How did he even wind up there? What was going on, and why was he feeling this way? Where was his crew? Did Luffy truly think he’d leave him? Leave his crew? His family? After everything they did to rescue him and get him back? 

“Yeah, you know I wouldn’t let you deal with your first heat on your own, without your suppressants. I’m sorry your alpha isn’t here yet.” He seemed almost…angry at whatever or whoever an alpha was. 

But none of those words muttered made any sense to Sanji. Suppressants, heat, alpha? What in the world was Zeff talking about? 

“I…I need-” What did he need? He couldn’t describe it. He just wanted the pain, heat, and sensation to go away. Zeff’s scent soothed him a little, but not in the ways he needed. Ways his body needed that he couldn't even comprehend.

“I know. He’ll be here soon, just hang on. I’m here in the meantime.” The cloth was removed from his forehead, and a new, cold one replaced it.  Sure, Zeff being near helped a bit. Helped calm him down. Helped soothe him. But he needed more. So much more. More than anyone except a certain man could give him.

It felt like hours, and everything got so much worse. When he thought he wasn’t going to make it and would somehow die from whatever thisheat was…

…he could smell it before anything else. Like the morning mist, pure and simple, mixed with freshly cut grass and…steel? Why the hell did he smell so good? Like he wanted to bask in the scent and never leave. It was such a different feeling than Zeff, too. Zeff smelled and felt like a comforting embrace from a father. From someone who cared. This other scent? Smelled like something that would devour him in every way possible. 

But also love him in other ways possible. 

“We’re in here, Zoro,” Zeff called out. The smell got closer and closer. Zoro? That amazing scent was coming from Zoro?! The stupid moss-head that had to be thrown into a bathroom to shower? The sweaty swordsman who trained day and night and smelled of sweat. The amazing scent was him?

“Thanks for taking care of him. I’ve got it covered now.” There were some more exchanges of words, but Sanji couldn’t hear anything, just muffled whispers. He felt like he was losing himself to his own body. All he could think about was how badly he wanted to be filled, and how he needed it to be Zoro. Stupid Zoro with his thick muscles and moss head. Dumb, sleepy Zoro smelling so good.

Some more noise, the shuffling of a door shutting, and the scent grew closer and closer, until he felt the bed dip and the scent enveloped him, like it was suffocating him in the best way possible. It felt good, and he wanted more, needed more. He didn’t care how desperate he sounded, didn’t care how pathetic he sounded, and how Zoro would never let him down.

“Z…Zoro? I fuck…I need-”

“I know, I know what you need. I’m sorry I was gone for most of your heat, but I’m here now, here to take care of you.”

Heat. 

That word again. 

He still had no clue what it was, but he felt… almost comforted in the fact that Zoro said he’d take care of him. Any other time, he’d retaliate. Yell at the dumb swordsman, tell him that he didn’t need to be taken care of, kick his ass. But in this instance, he felt like Zoro wasn’t trying to one-up him. Wasn’t teasing him. Wasn’t doing anything except truly helping him.

And then the other man was on him so quickly, ran his fingers down his spine, and Sanji felt two long fingers enter him. He gasped slightly, expecting his body to resist, for there to be slight pain, as he had never had anything like that inside of him before. But instead, it felt good. Too good. Zoro’s fingers slid in so easily, like he had done it many times before. The wetness seeping out of him helped, which was another thing Sanji was incredibly confused about. This…wasn’t normal. He knew it wasn’t blood, so what the hell could it be?

“You’re so wet, it’s so fucking hot,” Zoro whispered, like he was amused and turned on at the same time. Probably was, knowing the weird man Zoro was.

“Want more of my fingers first? Or want me to just shove my cock into you?” Zoro was asking him what he wanted, and he didn’t even know. Normally, he’d kick Zoro’s ass and toss him off The Sunny had they been there. Kick in right into the ocean. But his mind…wasn’t in the right, nor his body. 

“Fuck, you feel so good,” Zoro groaned when Sanji clenched around his fingers. “Can’t wait to feel you all around my cock - all around my knot.” Sanji squirmed against him, little moans escaping his lips. Zoro leaned forward, capturing his lips. Sanji shuddered slightly, kissing back just as fiercely, small tremors hitting his body as Zoro finger fucked him.

“Zoro, please,” Sanji panted, though he wasn’t entirely sure what he was even asking for. Just… something. Something that would soothe the way that his nerves all lit up in an entirely overwhelming way; the feeling of being too hot and too cold at the same time washed over him.

“F…fuck me?!” At this point, he didn’t even care how pathetic he sounded, didn’t care that sometime soon, Zoro would mess with him for acting as he was. But he didn’t care.. He just wanted to feel better. And it felt that Zoro, smelling the way he did, towering over him, was going to be completely at his will.

“Yes, yes!” Slight pressure, and then the most intense pleasure he’d ever felt before. He knew Zoro pushed inside of him. 

Sanji had never been with another man before, not like this. Sure, some kisses here and there, heavy make out sessions and groping, but never had sex with a man, and especially nothing close to Zoro shoving his rock-hard cock into him.

Admittedly, in the back of his mind, he was expecting a little bit of pain, but then realized, with how wet he was(For whatever weird fucking reason that was), Zoro pushed in so easily, so quickly. His body opened up to let him in, and then clenched hard to keep Zoro’s huge cock inside.

“F…fuck!” Zoro seemed big. Huge! Compared to anything else. Not that he had anything to compare it to. He’d never had anything inside of him like this.. But it felt amazing. His cock was scratching the itch that had been bothering him. His cock was touching him in all the right places. The way Zoro moved, pulling out with a slow drag, and then thrusting back in so quickly, repeating it over and over. Hitting a spot inside of him that made him see stars. Is this what sex with a man felt like? With Zoro?

“Sanji, gonna knot you, fuck, get ready.” 

Knot? What thehell was a knot?

He found out moments later, after releasing between his and Zoro’s bodies. The other man pushed as deep as he could, staying there, and Sanji felt an odd pressure of something locking him in. It felt like the base of Zoro’s cock had expanded, keeping them locked together.

He would have panicked if it didn't feel so good, and his mind wasn't in a blurry haze.

Fuck, it felt so good. He felt so full. Filled with cum, and whatever was happening with Zoro’s dick kept them stuck together. It was the most odd situation he’d ever felt, but it also felt so good. He felt so full. He wanted to stay like this forever. 

Just him and Zoro.

It was the bright sun, peeking through the dark curtains ,that woke him up. 

Blinking a few times to get used to the brightness, he sat up slowly, already feeling better than he did yesterday. His blood wasn’t boiling, and his skin wasn’t clammy. He also didn’t feel the need for Zoro to fuck him. Not after the three times Zoro did last night. All in ways he didn’t think were possible.

He felt slightly sore, but so very satisfied. He relished in the soreness. Zoro was next to him, on his side, almost plastered to him. He didn’t even remember falling asleep.

Really, he wanted nothing more than to cuddle up to Zoro and go back to sleep. For reasons unknown to him, just being near Zoro made him feel better. 

But no. NO. He had to see what was going on, especially what was going on with his body.

“Ah, how are you feeling now, eggplant?” Zeff was already awake. Probably preparing for the lunch rush. It did seem around that time, even though Sanji had no idea what time it was. 

Within moments, Zeff put a plate of food in front of him, and Sanji had now only realized how hungry he was.

“Thanks,” Zeff nodded in response, continuing to prepare for the rush.

Sanji ate in silence. Enjoying having Zeffs presence in his sight. He loved his life on the ocean , his crew, but there were times he missed Zeff. 

“Old man, what's-” Sanji paused. Gazing outside the kitchen window for the first time, standing up slowly to peer out of it. 

They weren’t on the sea. They were just…on a random …street? What the hell was happening? No way Zeff had relocated Baratie. He’d never! Especially not off the sea. 

“Sanji,” He paused, walking back over to the young man.

“You still smell like you’re in heat. Are you sure you should be getting out of bed?”

“Heat,” He clenched his fist slightly.  “You keep mentioning it, and I still have no idea what the hell it means. And I have no idea why the hell the Baratie isn’t on the ocean. Where are we?!” Zeff looked at him with concern lacing his features.

“Sanji, what’s wrong with you? You seem like you woke up as a new person.”

“I woke up feeling like shit, confused, in my old room, with you taking care of me. I have no clue what's going on with anything or anyone.”

“Why wouldn’t I take care of my own son while he’s in heat, his alpha not in sight?” Sanji felt his heart clench at the word ‘son’. My boy, my brat, little shit, eggplant. Just a few things Zeff called him growing up, but my son always hit him the hardest, in the best way possible. His own (so-called) father had rejected him, treated him out like trash and locked him up. Zeff was the only father he ever knew. The only father that ever mattered. 

“No, you’re all acting crazy…And my body. I don’t understand what’s happening to me. Why I…feel like this. Why the damn moss-head smells so good and makes me feel…safe.”

“You’ve never been through a full heat before, of course, you’re confused.”

“No. That’s not it. It’s…Zoro…he smells…so good. And you? Your scent feels so comforting.”

“As it should. Sanji, what’s going on? Tell me the last thing you remember.”

“The last thing I remember is wishing I had never met and joined my crew. Then some weird-ass guy asked me if I meant it.”

“Your crew? The hell are you talking about brat?” He asked, followed by a mumbled, “These damn kids and the names they make up for their friends nowadays.”

“Really old man? You know them. The straw hats. Luffy is our captain?”

“Ah, yes, Luffy, that loud-mouthed brat.” Sanji stifled a laugh.

“Yes, he’s our captain. You remember him!”

“Of course I remember him, he’s here almost every day. Not sure why you keep calling him captain, but tell me more about the last guy you saw.”

“Never saw him, but he asked me again, and then told me I’d learn. Everything went dark, and I woke up here.”

And then it hit him.Finally hit him, and the only reason he didn’t notice before was because his body was so messed up and his brain was so foggy. What if the strange man was a devil fruit user, who thrust him into some…alternate reality? It wasn’t beyond a possibility. Devil Fruits had such a wide range in their powers.

“I’ve heard of it before, as rare as it is. When your own universe needs to show you what you have isn't so bad.”

“So you…believe me?”

“Of course I do. You’ve never lied to me before. Why start now? Even if your story doesn’t seem real. I can see that you’re…different than our Sanji.”

“So do you think..this is some sort of alternative universe?” It sounded ridiculous the moment those words came out of his mouth, but it was the only possible explanation. 

“Sounds like it. At least for you. But for everyone else. It's the norm. It’s home.” Sanji fell silent, thinking. Was he going to be stuck here? And if he was, was it really so bad? Sure, he barely knew anything yet, but life didn’t seem that horrible. Maybe it really was better than being back on the Sunny, at least if his crew were his friends here.

“Who am I to you, in your other life?” Zeff pulled him from his thoughts.

Sanji’s expression softens. No matter how much the old man drove him crazy, he was still his father. Still loved him and appreciated everything the man had done for him.

“Same as you are here. My father.”

“And I always will, in every universe you end up in. I’ll always be your father. As much of a little piece of shit you are.” Sanji felt emotional, even though he always tried to keep his emotions, his true emotions, in check. Zeff was always someone who could pull them out of him.

“Y…yeah.” Sanji wiped his eyes.

He didn’t know how long he had been hanging around. The breakfast rush started, and Zeff forbade him from helping, “You look like shit, and you’re still in heat! You’ll have all those nasty alphas talking crap and trying to get into my kitchen.” So Sanji had just been sitting around. And it was almost 9 am when Zoro had appeared, walking slowly over to him, getting closer than Sanji would normally be used to.

“Oi, Sanji, come on. You're still in heat, I can smell it on you. Come to bed.” His scent would help. Even if he didn't need to be fucked. Just being near him. Zoro knew what Sanji needed.

“Go ahead, Eggplant. Relax in bed with your alpha. You’re not missing out on much.” As much as he didn’t want to crawl into bed with Zoro, something was drawing him to it. He wanted to be close to Zoro. To smell his scent, feel his warmth. Feel the man's body around him.

Zoro didn’t do anything. Even though Sanji could literally smell his arousal. Instead, the shitty swordsman pulled him flush against his chest, running his hand through his hair. It felt…nice. Comforting.

“Just relax. You're so damn antsy when there's no need to be. Especially now.”

“Fuck off,” Sanji pushed at him slightly, squirming in his arms.

“Yeah, there's my Sanji. Your heat is going away, and you're back to your normal self. Stubborn, shitty cook.” Zoro pulled him closer again, nuzzling his neck. Sanji tensed up a little, again trying to pry the other man off of him.

“Shit, just relax. You’ll probably have one more spike soon. I'm here, I'll protect you. “

“I don’t…need protecting.” He suddenly felt sleepy. Like Zoro’s scent and Body were in tune with his own, comforting him, lulling him to sleep. 

“I know you don’t,” Probably the calmest and softest he had ever heard Zoro speak. “You never will, but let me do what I can. Relax, you stubborn ass. I’m here. I love you and care for you. Sleep.”

That was all he really heard before sleep consumed him. No chance to reply, to give a snarky answer.

Just sleep.

~

He woke up two hours later and suddenly wanted to have a dick rammed up his ass. He felt so wet down there again. It was uncomfortable. Why wasn’t this over yet?

“Z…” He swallowed a shaky breath. “Zoro?”

“Still need it, tch. Told you. C’mere.” Sanji was pulled close, and Zoro kissed him, his hot mouth invading his own. Sanji moaned into the kiss, pressing himself hard against Zoro, grinding his hips against the other mans, wanting friction. 

“Sanji, fuck curly brow, you're so sensitive. ” Zoro muttered, effectively breaking the kiss to gently pepper gentle kisses along Sanji's jaw and neck.

Whatever was happening still seemed so surreal. Even though they had fucked yesterday, and despite being splayed out completely naked underneath Zoro. It still felt so odd. Pulled closer and a shift, and he was on his back, again, Zoro looming over him. Strong, warm hands pushing his knees to his chest, and a thrust. 

And fuck, it felt so good. Having Zoro around his body, inside of him, thrusting against that spot which made him see stars. Zoro knew what he was doing, knew what spots to hit and how hard. 

The feeling of Zoro’s cock pumping inside at a quickened pace knocked all of the air out of his lungs, because Sanji didn’t expect it to feel this good. A wave of relief coursed through his veins at the distinct stretch and settled the blazing fire inside of him, soothing his nerves.

“Fuuck,” Sanji moaned, throwing his head back against the pillow and digging his nails into the muscles of Zoro’s shoulders. 

“Yeah, you like that?”

“Yes. Please - Fuck - Zoro, please. Deeper, do it, I can…I can take it” Sanji babbled between little raspy moans.

It was the begging that really did Zoro in. Sanji didn’t beg him. Not really, not like this. Unable to handle it anymore, and unwilling to wait any longer, he pulled out to flip Sanji onto his stomach, alpha instincts driving every movement. He gave Sanji’s muddled brain just enough time to get his knees underneath him, arching to be in the perfect position before Zoro gripped the Omega’s hips and rubbed his cock against Sanji’s slick entrance.

“You ready?” He rasped out.

Unable to speak, Sanji just nodded frantically and pressed his hips back in an attempt to get Zoro’s cock back inside of him.

“Needy, aren’t you?” Zoro teased, draping himself over Sanji’s body. One arm wrapped around Sanji’s waist as the head of his cock caught on Sanji’s hole, slowly pressing into him. As much as he wanted to tease him more, wanted to hear him beg more than he already was, he knew that Sanji needed it. He pushed in harshly, not giving Sanji a moment to breathe before he set a quick pace and dipped his hand down between Sanji’s front to grip his hard cock, pumping quickly in tune with his brutal thrusts.. The way  Sanji was quivering and moaning told Zoro that it wasn’t going to be long before Sanji was done, Zoro not far behind him.

Before long, Zoro felt that tingling sensation at the base of his cock, felt his knot swell as pressure built in his groin. He buried himself as deep as possible inside Sanji, grinding into him with little rolls of his hips until his knot held them together.

The way Sanji was clenching tight around Zoro prolonged the pleasure he was feeling, and he found himself rolling his hips as much as he could with them knotted together. Sanji was shaking, still, in his arms, and with a gasp and moan, released into Zoro’s hand.

They lay together, letting their breathing even out. And, after Zoro’s knot went down, he pulled out, Sanji wincing at the feeling. Zoro turned him and sat him up, shoving his fingers into him.

“N…no!” Sanji all but whimpered. Too much, it was too much at this point. He felt sated now. Comfortable and didn’t feel the need for it at all. Now this was just making him oversensitive. 

“Too much?” Slowly, Zoro pulled out, bring his cum and slick-covered fingers to his lips, sucking them dry. Sanji’s eyes widened slightly. How could Zoro think that was hot? Nasty. How filthy. 

“Gentle then? Is that what you want now?” He growled, pulling Sanji close to him, inhaling the scent in his neck. He could feel Zoro slightly harder. But he didn’t do anything, just held Sanji close to him, gently running his fingers through his hair. During this short time, Sanji realized Zoro had done that a lot. Ran his fingers through his hair. It was nice. Made him wonder if it was a thing that alphas did? 

He felt like he wanted to die on the inside at the gentleness. Was Zoro actually like this? Horny, hard, but gentle? Following his lead and not fucking him, despite him being horny? Despite Sanji being able to smell his arousal? While he wanted to fuck, being in Zoro’s large, encasing arms felt so much better right now.

“Relax, I got you. Sleep. I’ll be here when you wake up.”

The next morning, Sanji felt normal. Normal normal. He could still smell Zoro, and the stupid swordsmen still smelled amazing, comforting, but it wasn’t even close to as intense as it had been the last two days. It felt like a lingering, comforting feeling in the back of his mind.

All he really wanted to do was take a shower. Rid himself of the cum and sweat for the last two days. 

“Zoro, hey, get off me.” Zoro was sprawled across him like a weighted blanket, dead asleep.

“Hey!” He pulled at the green hair, causing Zoro to stir. “Wake up, I need to shower.” 

“Tch, so damn bossy.” Zoro shifted and sat up, staring down at Sanji before smirking. That damn cocky smirk. He still had it.

“...after you were begging me these last two days to shove my cock inside of you.”

“Don’t speak such nonsense.” He knew it was true, even if he didn’t want to admit it.

“Come on, I’ll join you.” Zoro nodded towards the bathroom door. Sure. Showering together seemed nice, actually.

Feeling much better, and much cleaner, Zoro bid Sanji goodbye, the other man kissing him on the lips (in front of Zeff!), saying he’d see him soon.

Sanji desperately wanted to see if the rest of his crew was in this universe. Zoro was, obviously, and Luffy, according to Zeff. But what about everyone else? Nami, Usopp, Robin? What and who would Chopper even be? He was a reindeer. And Franky? Would he still have some sort of prosthetic legs?  What about Brook and Jinbe? Surely this world didn’t have cyborgs, talking animals, fishmen, or skeletons, right? What would Chopper and Jinbe even look like as humans?

“Did you say you were going to the library? Really? The hell is so important there?” Zeff asked him, not mentioning a single word about Zoro kissing him in broad daylight.

“Just…wanted to do a little research,” and it was true. He wanted to find a book that would explain what omegas and alphas were, and about their bodies. That had to exist, right? Even back in his own universe, there were such things as anatomy books, so it couldn't be that weird…right? And apparently, an omega's first heat was intense. There had to be more about it.

“Hello, Sanji. What brings you in today?” Robin! It was Robin, of all people, who was the head librarian at the library that Sanji decided to visit! He couldn’t believe it! He was relieved and happy that he found one of his crewmates. Well, one aside from Zoro. 

“Robin?” Her scent wasn’t strong, barely there, honestly. He couldn’t even place that she’d be an alpha. He hadn’t been near another omega yet, so he couldn’t tell. But Robin seemed like the was…something in between the two. Whatever that meant. Was there a third type Sanji didn’t know about or something?

“Wow, that heat really hit you hard, didn’t it?” She laughed gently, something almost near pity in her eyes. Almost. It was more like some sort of empathy or commiseration.

“I…want a book on omegas, and maybe alphas, to learn more about my…heat.”

“Yeah,” She looked sad. How come? Why did anyone seem so sad about him having a heat? Was having a heat not normal or something? Great, another thing to worry about.

“I’m sorry about that.” 

Robin takes no more than two minutes to find him one book on all three.

Alphas, omegas, and betas. What were betas even?!

From reading, it seemed like betas were basically what he’d consider ‘normal’. What everyone back in his own universe would be. Tch, and of course, he was an omega. This universe was cruel in that sense. Fucked him over. Like it was punishing him. Maybe that devil fruit used that sent him here knew exactly what he was doing, so Sanji would realize his mistake

But he understood now. Understood why his body was acting the way it did, what a heat was, and how omegas could get a drug called a ‘suppressant’ that would cause their heats to stop completely. He learned way more about alphas, knots, and ruts than he thought he needed to, even though he experienced some of that first-hand, already. But at least he understood what Zoro was doing to him. Why, as an omega in heat, it felt so good.

He had been there for two hours, reading the entirety of the book from cover to cover. It explained everything about bodies in this universe that he could care to know. Betas seemed to have it the best and easiest, in his opinion. Didn’t have to worry about heats or ruts, or their own bodies betraying them. Or strong, putrid scents coming from others they didn’t like.

“Learned enough?” Her smile, he swooned at it, causing her to laugh. She was still the same, and it made him even more at ease knowing that she was here too.

“Are you and Zoro still coming to Ace’s birthday party on Saturday night? We’ll all be there.” Ace? He was still alive?! That was amazing! He was alive, and everyone he’d seen so far was the same. Maybe this universe wasn’t so bad after all.

“I guess so, I’ll ask the moss-head later on.”

“You may want to check in with Luffy and Nami, too. They’ve been worried about you being alone for your first heat.

“I wasn’t-” He began, wanting to tell her he wasn’t alone. That Zeff was there, and Zoro had gotten there at the end, but also realized this wasn’t exactly something he wanted to discuss with her. With anyone. 

“I’ll find them. Thanks, Robin-chan! See you Saturday.”

“Sanjiiiiii!” 

He shook his head, smiling, feeling like the universe was trying to shove his friends (his crew!) into his life here.

Oh Luffy. He’d never forget what he sounded like, loud and boisterous, as the smaller man launched himself at Sanji, pulling him into a hug.

“Hey, hey!” He laughed, nuzzling at Sanji’s neck, taking a deep breath to inhale his scent. Sanji froze for a moment, shivering. Not in a bad way, but enjoying the way Luffy was near him. Nowhere near the same way he felt about Zoro, but also not quite the same as Zeff, either. 

 “Hey, Sanji! You smell so nice, but I thought your heat ended a few days ago?” Of course Luffy would ask about something so intimate.

“It finished yesterday.”

“Why didn’t you call me? Or Nami? To take care of you.”

Something else Sanji had learned while reading. Alphas took care of omegas during their heats, in many ways, aside from how Zoro took care of him. Just being in the presence of an Alpha they cared about (a sibling, parent, friend) helped soothe the pain and symptoms just a bit. Which meant Luffy and Nami were both alphas.

Made sense to him. Especially Nami.

Maybe Luffy too.

But he couldn’t even fathom Luffy being sexual with anyone.

“Luffy, shut up!” He knocked him on the head. This Luffy seemed exactly like his own, back home. In fact, so did Zoro and Zeff. Everyone he met was exactly like their counterpart.

“Aww, come on, Sanji. You know, I just want my friends to be happy!”

“I know, but Zeff was there at first, then Zoro-” He cut himself off mid-sentence. Shit. He didn’t want to tell Luffy that Zoro was there.

“Ohhh, so Zoro made it after all?” Sanji blinked once, twice.

He quickly came to the realization that he didn’t even know what he and Zoro were. Was Zoro just an alpha, helping him in times of need? Didn’t seem like the case, not the gentle way Zoro had kissed him goodbye, or called him “my Sanji” when Sanji was telling him to fuck off.

“Yeah, uh, I guess he did.”

“That’s good! But I’ll always step in if you need me! Will you two be there at Ace’s birthday on Saturday?”

“Yeah, no reason not to.” He shrugged. He was sure Zoro would too.

“Great, great! I’ll see you then, Sanji.”

Now he knew what suppressants were (for omegas). And he also learned that recently, the world government had passed a law banning suppressants for omegas. It had been a recent development. One used to control omegas, according to many. It seemed that many were angry, felt like the world government did everything in their power to keep alphas in control.

Omegas were treated like crap. Like weaklings. Like they only mattered to pleasure alphas. They were unable to hold steady jobs, couldn’t own a business, or run one. Couldn’t get a place to live on their own without an Alpha's consent.

This world sucked for what he was.

The walk back to Baratie wasn’t long, but Sanji could feel those looks on him, like they wanted to devour him, overcome and dominate him. He hated it. Those disgusting alphas. They also smelled putrid, making his nose crinkle in disgust. Pathetic.

“The hell are you staring at?” He couldn't take it anymore, couldn’t handle the disgusting stares like he was a fresh piece of meat.

“Hmm, Vinsmoke Sanji. Just walking in broad daylight? Like no one could claim you?”

“The fuck are you talking about. No one can claim me. Fuck off.”

“He’s always been a feisty one!” Another one said.

“Oh, right. Roronoa Zoro has claims on you, doesn’t he? Well, he isn’t here right now to protect you. Either is that moron alpha who wears that straw hat. Or your pathetic father.”

“As if I need protecting.” He saw red. How dare these pathetic morons insult Luffy and Zeff like that!

 They were getting closer. It felt suffocating. They were alphas, he could tell by their smell. But they didn’t have a nice smell like Zeff or Zoro. Didn’t have that comforting smell.

“Fuck off.” A quick slide and kick, and they both crumbled to the ground. Good to know that in this universe, he was still strong.

“Damn. didn’t realize you were strong, too. Don’t worry, some alpha, even Roronoa, will beat you into submission.”

Sanji noticed it now. Noticed that omegas seemed to be less than their other two counterparts. He would get looks, sneers. Why were omegas thought of as less than? He was still strong.

Even if he wasn’t, what would it matter? He was still a person.

“Did you get the information you needed” It felt so comforting, coming home and seeing Zeff. His scent, his voice, everything made him feel safe to the point he couldn’t explain. He just loved being near his father. The actual man who raised him. Cared for him.

“Yeah, I did,” While he learned about bodies, heats, and ruts. He wanted to learn more about what the world was like. But he supposed that would come with time.

Sanji learned the hard way that omegas were oppressed in this world. Treated like shit. Like they didn't matter. Like they were less than.

But not by his friends, as he’d learned during his time here. His entire crew was an alpha or beta (he still hadn’t met Chopper, so he no clue about him. But they all treated him so well, like he was their equal. Which he was. They were all equals.

Especially Zoro

Sure, the thick-headed alpha fucked him into oblivion, but still treated him like his equal. Never made Sanji think otherwise. Never had to worry that Zoro would treat him any other way. 

He hated it here, despite everyone he loved treating him normally.

Zeff, his father, is proud of him all the time.

Zoro, his lover, love of his life, never makes him feel beneath him.

Luffy still loved being cooked for. Loved meat

Robin still had that tough, yet gentle demeanor.

It was when he was getting coffee the next morning that he saw Usopp.

“Or hey, Sanji! Glad you finally came to visit.” Beta, Sanji could tell right away that Usopp was a beta. His non-existent scent and frantic demeanor. It was a blanket of comfort among the sea of gross alphas he’d come across.

“Yeah…well.”

“You feeling okay, bud? I know you were off your suppressants for the first time.” Again. The pity. It was driving him crazy.

But was it pity? That wasn’t in Usopp's personality to show pity.

“It was fine! Zoro was-” He began, realizing he was about to tell Usopp his business when the guy really didn’t need to know

“Yeah, I know. Just sucks what the world government is doing to omegas, it’s not fair.”

“Yeah, thanks.” He didn’t even know what to say anymore, not knowing what Usopp was talking about.

“Go sit, and I’ll get you your usual. Nami’s on her way too!” Usopp made a hand motion, and Sanji pulled back to take a seat. 

Nami had joined him, a few minutes later, taking a seat and sipping her coffee. 

“How was your first heat?” Her voice was laced with concern, her scent a mix of grass and tangerines. Suit her well. She was another easy one to figure out. Definitely an alpha, as Luffy had basically told him.

“It was fine,” He shrugged, taking a sip of his coffee.

“Did Zoro get to you on time?”

“No, not til the end…but it was okay.”

“Damn, Sanji, why didn’t you call me or Luffy?” 

“Zeff was there…”

“Yeah. Of course. I should have known. But I’m glad your first heat went well. I’m sorry you’ll have to go through them now…”

“It’s…shitty.”

“Of course it is, you know we care. Sanji, if there’s anything-”

“I’m okay. Thanks, Nami-swan. I….appreciate you all.”

“Oh Sanji…” More concern, more empathy. He really needed to figure out about the suppressant ban and what the world government had against omegas

So far, everyone made sense. Nami, Luffy, Zeff, and even Zoro as alphas. Robin and Usopps as betas. He had yet to meet Franky, Brook, Jinbe or Chopper but he could kind of hazard a guess, based on their personalities. 

They had all gotten there before Sanji and Zoro. Mainly because Zoro had no idea where to go, and Sanji had to figure it out, which was a challenge in itself, considering Sanji didn’t know where places were in this city.

The first person he saw was Brooke. Which, now he understood, the man he was before he died and was resurrected with the devils fruit. No scent, just his friendly demeanor. He was a beta.

Franky too, which surprised him a bit, but also didn’t at the same time. He didn’t have enough aggression to be an alpha, but had just enough to be a beta.

Jinbe had been there too, older than all of them. A comforting presence, but a beta nonetheless.

Chopper was the last one he saw. And finally, finally knew how it felt to be around another omega. A scent that almost melding with his own. Fresh fallen snow. His scent and presence had the feeling of being close to a sibling.

Ace wasn't the First there, despite it being his/ birthday, bit the moment he walked in, he made a beeline for Sanji, smile larger as he got closer.

His comforting smell of smoke after a fire told Sanji that he was an alpha.

"Hspoy birthday, Ace." Truthfully, it was nice seeing Ace. Knowing the man was long dead in his own universe.

"You made it! I was hoping you would." Sanji blinked in confusion.

"Why wouldn't I?"

But then he felt it. Zoros scent had gotten stronger, enveloping him as he got closer, like an umbrella covering up the beaming sun on a hot day.

Oh.

Oh.

Zoro was jealous of Ace!

Because of course he was.

"Yeah, happy birthday." His arm draped over Sanji. Almost like he was trying to show off or something.

It was kind of... Cute.

Sanji didn't feel like Zoro was trying to own him or anything. And no matter what universe, Sanji wasn't the cheating type, so Zoro never had to worry.

"Heyyy! Let's have a shot for the birthday boy! Fireball! His favorite." Thankfully Franky seemed to notice the tension, breaking up the awkwardness.

"Come on!"

-------

“Chopper? What’s wrong?” Nami asked, able to sense something uncomfortable with him.

“ I was denied.” That was all he had to say, and a deep sadness washed over all of them. Sanji had no clue, but could feel everyone's scent change.

“It’s because you’re an omega. That’s it. That’s really it.” Luffy clenched his fists. It was the same Luffy he knew. The same passionate young man who cared for his friends.

“But what can I do?” Poor Chopper. He sounded so defeated.

“Don’t give up on your dream!” Eyes turned to Sanji. “Fuck them, Fuck it all! Keep going, Chopper, you’ll be a great doctor.” 

Shit. He didn’t even know if that’s what Chopper wanted. But everyone was the same. The exact same! So surely, Chopper wanted to be a doctor here, too.

“Can I really, though? The world government is doing everything it can to suppress us.”

“And for what? Because of how we were born? How is that our fault?”

“Sanji, I know you’re upset, and those who disagree are doing what they can. You know they have a lot of support. It’s getting more and more alphas to support them.” Nami said, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“And we can…I know we can.”

Days went by, and Sanji learned to hate this universe more and more. Even working at the Baratie, he heard the whispers of customers: An omega in the kitchen? At a large, famous restaurant? He didn’t belong there.

But he did. Everything pointed to that he did. Zeff and the rest of the workers. They all supported him.

But one night, Sanji couldn’t handle it. Couldn't handle the whispers and disgusting, sexist “Jokes”..

“Say it to my face, asshole.”

“Gladly. All you’re good for is a tight wet hole. Know your place.” 

He felt a little bad. Not bad that he beat the shit out of the alpha. But felt bad that he caused a scene, broke a table and some plates. Wasted food. Zeff was going to be pissed.

Except he wasn’t. He looked sad. More empathy, more sorrow, and condolence. 

“Sanji, go take a break. Take the next day off.”

“No I’m fine, I can-”

“Go!”

More news, now saying that the world government made it illegal for an omega to hold a job. Chopper had been fired from his job, and although Zeff didn’t do anything to take Sanji out of the kitchen, they both felt it once they got a letter from the world government.

“Investigation?” They would be investigated Baratie, because it was known that an omega was working there.

“I’ll quit!”

“No, Sanji. You will not.”

“Old man, this place is your pride and joy. I won’t let it close, just because-” Zeff raised a hand, cutting him off.

“No, Sanji.” He paused, warm eyes boring into Sanji's.

"You're my pride and joy.”

Baratie shut down two days later.

It got worse over the next few weeks. More restrictions for omegas, more laws.

There were many protests against it. Alphas, Betas, and omegas who disagreed. Liberation's and bans on where to shop or visit. Places that supported the world governments law. So many people refused to shop there.

It wasn’t enough. 

The world government was determined to turn Omegas into less than second-class citizens.

And they were succeeding.

Even with all of the pushback.

He needed to see Zoro.

The walk to Zoro’s was quick, and luckily, he didn’t run into any other alphas. He had been doing that too much lately. And while he could take them, he didn’t want to cause a scene. Didn’t want to deal with more of a target on his back.

“Sanji, didn’t expect you today.” It was a tease, but still seemed affectionate. He felt deep down that Zoro cared. That Zoro wanted him there.

“Mm.” He wasn’t even sure that he wanted to talk right now. He just wanted to be in Zoro’s arms. To have his alpha comfort him. Shit. What was this universe doing to his emotions?

“Hey, curly brow.” That nickname, even in this universe. Made him smile. “You okay?” There was concern in his voice. Something the Zoro from his time always tried to mask. But he felt it. Deep down. He knew Zoro cared for him.

“Yeah,” He paused. “Just wanted to see you,” His heart ached. Just a bit. Did Zoro from his own time feel this, too? They fought, in this time, teased and messed with each other, but it was in a friendly type of way. Kind of. 

He felt so comfortable here. With Zoro.

“You sure you’re okay? You’re never this…” Zoro paused, holding him closer, and Sanji inhaled his scent. “...clingy.”

“Sh…shut up, Marimo.” He didn’t have the capacity to insult him. Not right now. He just wanted to be close to him.

“Listen to me, and don’t say a word before I finish.” Zoro began, grasping Sanji’s chin, forcing him to look into his eyes.

“Marry me,” He paused, seeing Sanji’s eyes widen slightly. “Marry me and take my name. You’ll be a protected class as a married omega.”

“Zoro-”

“I said let me finish ero-cook. I’d never let them suppress you, never let them dull that fire behind your eyes. We’ll change things. We all will.” Zoro was so passionate in what he believed in. No matter what it was. He stuck to his word. Knew Zoro meant what he said, no matter what.

“Y…yeah, okay.” Yeah, he could handle that. But this world? This universe? It was awful. All he wanted to do right now, was go back home.

Home. 

He wanted to go home so badly, even though being with Zoro in this universe was….nice.

Maybe this would carry over into his own. Maybe Zoro in his world felt the same way as he did in this one.

Exceptfuck all this omega bullshit.

“Hmm, what's wrong?”

“I love you.” He said the words he never thought he’d mutter. Never thought he’d say. But it never felt so real. Maybe, going home, back to his own universe, he could utter those words too.

“Oi, shitty cook, why not tell me what the hell has been wrong with you lately?”

Sanji explains, while Zoro listens, interested. Not saying a single word, even though what Sanji is saying is insane, unbelievable. 

“Of course you’d get yourself in deep shit.” 

“You…believe me?”

“Yeah, curly brow, no reason not to.” That’s what Zeff said, too.

“I just…I…”

“Are we together in your universe?”

“No, we hate each other.” 

A stifled laugh and cocky smile.

“Tch, I highly doubt that.” 

“I think…for once, in that tiny brain of yours, you may be right.”

“I’m always right. You just hate to admit it.”

“I don’t even know if I can get home after this. I just know I want to. This universe is shit. Worse than where I’m from.” Sanji admitted. He never wanted to live in a world where he was treated like a second-class citizen just because of how he was born.

“Every time,” Zoro began, and suddenly, everything was so blurry. He felt dizzy, like he was suffocating.

“What?” Why was it getting so hard to breathe?

“In every universe, I’ll find you.” Sanji felt a weird tug towards his body, like he was being pulled to somewhere far away. Somewhere completely different from here. Different from where he was.

“Always.”

That was the last word before he felt extreme pain at the back of his head. And everything went dark.

Chapter Text

There was loud, insistent banging that forced Sanji awake, forced him to sit up quickly, and he immediately realized he wasn't back home yet. Nope, he knew this was another universe. Apparently, the person who brought him here wasn't done torturing him yet.

“Sanji, I've told you many times, not to lock this door.” More loud banging accompanied by an angry voice. A voice he never wanted to hear again, never thought he'd hear again. Not after everything that happened on Whole Cake Island. Shit. He definitely wasn't back home.

“Shit,” The voice beside him said, yeah he knew that too. It was only now that he realized there was a warm body in bed with him, next to him. Sanji turned to his left and there was Zoro, once again, he must be with Zoro in this universe too, because of course they were together here too.

“Uhh...?” What could he say? Really? Clearly, Zoro wasn't supposed to be here, with the way he was acting and the insistent banging on the door. Were they sneaking around together or something? As much as Sanji didn't want to admit...the thought riled up some feelings in his mind.

“Hide,” Zoro's panicked voice broke him from his thoughts.

“I need to hide. Shit!” Zoro seemed worried. So out of character for him, so it must be serious. But really, why was he so afraid of Judge? What the hell could Judge even do to him? Did he have the same power like back in Germa 66?

“In the closet?” Sanji offered, there was really no where else for Zoro to hide. Under the bed was way too obvious, as was something like behind the curtains or in the bath tub. He was sure Judge would find him right away if he his there.

“What? Why in there?! Took me long enough to get out of it.” Zoro grumbled. Sanji would have laughed if the situation wasn't dire. Who knew the dumb moss head had a sense of humor.

“Sanji, you better open this fucking door before I break it down.” The voice and banging returned, harder this time. The doorknob shook, and Sanji wouldn't be surprised if Judge broke it off.

“Go, hide behind my clothes! Cover yourself up. Hurry up moss-head!” He said as he stood up, watching Zoro open the closet door and practically jump in. There was some ruffling, then silence. When Sanji felt that that Zoro was hidden and quiet, he stood up and walked over to the door, unlocking it.

“Sanji-”

“What?” He came face to face with Judge. A man he was hoping to never see again. After his crew rescued him from Whole Cake Island, he had hoped to never see his family again, under any circumstances, even in a different universe. He really thought that would be the last time he would ever see any of them again.

“Why is your door locked?” He questioned.

“Can't someone have a little privacy in his own room?” Sanji frowned. Why the hell was he living with Judge now? And why was the man so adamant to get him to open the door?

“No. Not when that someone is you. Not when you're in my home, living under my rules.” Judge's eyes narrowed, scanning the room. Quickly, he shoved Sanji roughly out of the way, causing him to crash into his dresser, bracing himself before he fell.

“What the h-”

“If he's in here, Sanji, I'm going to kill him this time. I swear I will.” The rage and anger in Judge's voice scared him, and made him truly fear for Zoro's life, even if he had no clue what he was capable of here.

He checked under the bed, behind the curtains, the attached bathroom and behind the shower curtains, the moved to the closet, throwing the door open.

Sanji felt his heart beat fast, felt sick. Shit, Judge was going to find him!

“Father!” A feminine voice rang out. Reiju! At least she was here too. It gave him some comfort at least.

“What is it?” Judge took his attention away from the closet, looking at his daughter.

“There's someone on the phone for you, sounds important.” She said matter-of-factly, shrugging as she looked over to her brother.

“Fine, but Sanji, don't let me catch him in here,” With one last glare at Sanji, Judge left the room.

Once she was sure he was gone, Reiju made her way over to the open closet, shaking her head.

“Hmm, well at least you hid pretty well, Zoro.” She said, pulling back some hangers of clothes to expose him. He jumped slightly, but relaxed when he realized it was her.

“You ...won't tell father, right?” Sanji blurted out.

“Have I ever?” She challenged. Damn, that must mean this thing with Zoro was going on for a while, because of course it was. It seemed to be a trend now, being stuck with the dumb moss-head.

“Thanks. It means a lot.”

“Yeah, what are big sisters for? Plus, you two are so sweet together I can't handle it sometimes. Now get out of here before our father comes back,” She said to Zoro, and then turned to her brother.

“And Sanji, don't linger, I'll see you downstairs.” Reiju left, shutting the door behind her, giving them a moment of privacy.

“Shit, that was too close.” Zoro spoke as he frantically got dressed, picking up his articles of clothing that had been scattered across the room. He opened the window and turned to Sanji, grabbing him roughly by the collar and kissing him, hard. Sanji didn't even have time to react before Zoro pulled away.

“See ya later, cook.” A wink and he slid down the vines onto the ground, disappearing from view.

“Well that was...something.”

“About time, Sanji. Messing around with Zoro up there or somethin'?” Ichiji teased him, but not in a brotherly type of way. It seemed condescending, mean, even, but it didn't surprise him. He knew how his brothers were. They never changed.

“Wouldn't you like to know?” He felt a bit braver to speak up to them now, especially after what had happened on Whole Cake Island. His crew gave him the courage to do so. Plus, they didn't seem to hold much power here.

“Hmm, yeah, actually. I think we would like to know if our cash cow brother is being fucked for free by his dumb-ass boyfriend.” Niji added. Fuck, now Sanji was mad, even though he had no clue what they were talking about. Cash cow? What the hell did they even mean?

“All of you, shut up and eat. We have a long few weeks ahead of us. Let him enjoy the little bit of freedom he has, for now. Soon enough, he'll give us what we've wanted.”

“Yeah, Sanji will be 18, finally! And we won't have to suffer in poverty.” Yonji spoke up. Sanji really wished he knew what the hell they were talking about. So he wasn't even 18 yet? He didn't seem or feel any different. And poverty? How did Yonji even think they were in poverty? Sanji could tell that they still lived lavishly.

“We aren't even close to being in poverty, come on.” Reiju rolled her eyes.

Sanji had no clue what they were talking about. He didn't give a shit about his family. So why would he do anything to help him? And they were, as per usual, talking about him like he wasn't even there.

After breakfast, Sanji decided to explore the town a little. See how different things were. See if he could find his crew. They had to be here...right?

He found them last time. He could find them again.

His wandering found him at Baratie.

“Ah, about time you've shown up, little eggplant, your friends have been waiting for you. You're never late. Troubles with Judge I assume?”

Sanji blinked a few times, softly smiling as he watched Zeff limp into the kitchen with his peg leg. It seemed like Zeff was always going to be destined to lose his leg in every universe. It was sad, but also it suited him well.

“Go on, they're in the party room waiting for you.” Zeff gestured to a door, where, behind it, Sanji could hear Luffy's loud mouth.

“Hey, bout damn time you showed up.” Zoro was the first to greet him.

“Yeah! I'm hungry and wanna eat!” Sanji smiled. Luffy would never change.

“I called you, how come you didn't pick up?” Nami interjected. Were snail transponders a thing here too? He didn't see one anywhere in the house or his room.

Again, a room full of his crew. His friends. His family. Everyone he cared about.

“C'mere Sanji,” Sanji's breath got caught in his throat. He never heard Zoro say his name. It almost made his cheeks burn.

“Aww, are you blushing? I swear you two make me wanna gauge my eyes out sometimes with how cute you act. Funny to think you two said you hated each other at one point. Like any of us ever believed that.” Nami laughed.

Sanji made his way over to Zoro, sitting beside him, the other man gripped his chin, planting a tender kiss on his temple. It was so odd to see this Zoro so...tender and kind. But also himself. It felt weird, odd, but amazing at the same time.

“So Sanji, what are we doing for your birthday? It's only two weeks away! Some sort of birthday plus going away party?” Usopp asked, twirling his fruity in excitement.

Going away party? Why would he need that? Where was he going?

“Nothing. Not until we get to Wano. Then we'll invite you all.” Zoro adding in, arm lazing draped over his shoulders.

“W...Wano?” Shit. Was Wano a thing here too?

“Mm, yeah, almost have the apartment lined up. Just waiting til you turn 18 next month. Can't wait.”

Next month? That soon? Judge had said a few weeks, but Sanji didn't really think about what that could mean.

“Yeahhh, gonna be super awesome and I can't wait to visit you guys. How's the savings?”

“It's going,” Zoro interjected, “Between the cook working here at Baratie, and me working at the dojo, we'll have a years worth of rent.”

“That's so great. I'm so excited for you two.” Robin smiled, taking a sip of her drink.

Everyone seemed to agree, even though Sanji was able to figure out that he and Zoro were going to Wano together. Why? He could hazard a guess that it was to escape his father, with the way Judge was acting. He seemed like he was happy here, with his crew. So why leave?

It was almost midnight by the time Sanji made it back home.

“Sanji, you need to get home closer to your curfew. Father is furious.”

Even though Sanji had escaped when he was 7, thanks to Reiji, he never forgot the wrath his father had at times.

“Yeah, yeah, okay. I'm here now. Chill out.”

“Sanji. You need to be a little more strategic, okay? Unless you want him to find out about you leaving to Wano with Zoro.” Oh. So she knew about it? Made sense. She would, of all people.

“I...know, okay? I'm just..”

“Just be careful, alright? I can only do so much to help you.”

He was at Zoro's, 'hanging out'. Although he didn't expect a hangout to consist of Zoro shoving his tongue down his throat, feeling him up in the middle of the living room.

“If you two are going to do this, go to your room, Zoro. It will probably be more comfortable, anyway.” Mihawks voice caught him off guard, shoving Zoro away from him. This man was here too?! And it seemed that Zoro was living with him? After all he did to him? What the hell was going on in this universe?

“Yeah, sorry, we'll get to it.”

“HEY!” Sanji yelled. How many people knew they were together at this point?

“Tch, what's wrong? Not in the mood? This says otherwise.” Zoro cupped his cock through his pants. Yeah, he was definitely hard. But really..In front of that man? Mihawk didn't even seem phased. Just rolled his eyes and left the room as if this was something he was used to.

Sanji learned fairly quickly that getting his neck kissed turned him on, made him hard. Especially with the way the stupid swordsman was slowly planting kisses down his neck, whispering in his ear, running his hands against his back and thighs.

He couldn't help but moan slightly.

“Yeah, let me hear you.” He felt Zoro reach for his belt, taking it off with ease, and suddenly he was pushed roughly onto his back with an 'oof'.

His pants were yanked off, along with his underwear, and Zoro made quick work of the buttons on his shirt, but didn't remove it, just letting is slip down his shoulders slightly.

“Seeing you like this? Can't wait to see this for the rest of our lives.” Zoro half-teased, unbuttoning his own pants but not removing them.

Okay, Sanji thought, so this was going to be a bit...different, as he watched Zoro reach for the bedside drawer to pull out some lube.

The last time they had sex, in a different universe, Sanji's mind was bothered by his heat, so he let Zoro do what he wanted. Plus his body...prepared itself. Which definitely wasn't normal.

He found himself go red around the ears from the memory.

“Hn, blushing now?” Zoro laughed, pouring some lube onto three fingers. Sanji watched as he warmed his lubed fingers up, before shifting Sanji's hips to bring one to his entrance.

Sanji gasped and flinched a little when he felt a finger enter him. It was warm and wet, and didn't hurt, but without a cloudy mind, he knew what was going on. Knew Zoro was about to fuck him.

“What is it? What's wrong?” Zoro saw his discomfort, and immediately pulled away, concerned. Of course, he was, he was sure that the Sanji from this world was used to this. Used to being fucked.

“No...It's nothing but...” Shit. Did he want this? Last time he just let it happen. But now? Now he was letting Zoro fuck him, and was going to be an active participant. There was no going back after this.

“Let...let me ride you?” He asked.

“Fuck yeah curls. Let me finger fuck you first to open you up, and then we can do that.” Two fingers now, pushing inside. There was a tiny bit of discomfort, but no pain. After a few seconds, Zoro added a third and hit that spot inside of him, causing him to gasp. How was Zoro so good at this?

Slowly pulling his fingers out, Zoro moved back to sit up against the headboard, pulling his hard cock out of his pants. He smirked as he stroked himself once, twice, lubing himself up.

“Alright, c'mere.” He patted his lap.

“A...aren't you gonna get undressed?” Sanji asked, suddenly realizing he was practically naked and Zoro was fully dressed.

“Nah, come on, get up here.”

Something about Zoro still being clothed, and his mostly naked – hell, his shirt was half off, he might as well be fully naked – made him feel so exposed, but not in a bad way.

Sanji sighed in defeat and crawled into Zoro's lap, one shaking hand holding onto Zoro's cock, as he sank down slowly, savoring the stretch and the fullness. It felt so good, having Zoro inside of him.

When he bottomed out, he let out a long, drawn out, and quiet moan, his head falling onto Zoro's shoulder. Zoro's hands immediately went to his hips, holding him steady.

“You good curls? Does my cock really put you out of commission?” He smirked, fingers rubbing at the skin gently.

“S...shut up!” Zoro pulled him from his thoughts and he raised himself slowly, watching Zoro gasp as he slammed himself down, groaning as Zoro's dick hit his prostate dead on.

“F...fuck yeah babe, keep going. Want some help?” Zoro asked after a few thrusts. Eyes closed tight in pleasure. Grabbing Sanji's hips harder, helping guide him.

“Mmm, no, you stay there moss-head, don't touch me.”

“Oh yeah?” Zoro asked, opening his eyes when he felt Sanji push his hands off his hips,watching as the the blond slowly impaled himself. Sanji's legs shaking slightly as he bit his lip, trying to contain something.

“Hey, am I hurting you?” Zoro asked, concerned when he realized Sanji was going a little too slow. He moved one hand to Sanji’s back, slowly moving his fingers up and down his soft, sweaty skin. He always loved touching him, enjoyed how Sanji felt under his calloused, rough hands. To him, Sanji's body was perfect. Even with some of the small burns and tiny scars he had on him. He was perfect.

“No, fuck, why would you be hurting me?” Sanji leaned back a little, running his fingers along the different scars on Zoro’s chest, like he was mapping out his skin, memorizing every scar. His body was so much like his own Zoro's, back home.

“Alright then, hurry up, why are you going so slow? Fuck!” He wasn’t even sure how he was able to get the words out. Not with Sanji riding his cock. The heat attacked his senses and disappeared as Sanji pulled away. It was so perfect, the way Sanji moved on top of him. The way he took his cock so deep inside of him. But slow. He was going too slow. There was a time and place for being tender during sex. Sanji riding his cock like a porn star was not it right now.

“F...fine! Put your hands on my hips.” Sanji panted as he leaned forward, kissing the corner of Zoro's mouth as he rode his boyfriend's dick. Finding a good rhythm that felt good for both of them. With the way Zoro was gripping harshly onto his hips, he knew the green-haired man loved it.

He buried his face in Zoro’s neck, letting the other man guide the movement of his hips. He whispered little words of praise into Zoro’s neck as he sped up his movements, barely able to contain his moans, wanting to hear Zoro instead. Neither of them lasted long, Sanji, for some reason feeling pent up, and Zoro enjoying the fact that he could sit back and enjoy. Sanji moaned loudly when he felt Zoro release inside of him. Fuck, why did this feel so amazing? Feeling Zoro empty himself deep inside. He loved it. He tightened his arms around Zoro’s neck as he came over his chest, barely noticed the little ‘mm’ sound Zoro had made.

Throughout the week, Sanji realized this life isn't so bad. He had his crew, Zeff. Even living with Judge and his awful brothers, it really wasn't so bad. He was happy to be hanging out with his crew. Coffee shops, working at Baratie, and shopping at the mall. Maybe he could stay here, and be happy.

But then his birthday came, and it all went to shit.

At around midnight, he was climbing down the vines from his bedroom, Zoro on the ground, waiting for him.

But they didn't get far. Somehow, Judge knew, and he and his brothers were waiting for him, guns and knives drawn. Everything was such a blur. Zoro was fighting them off, telling Sanji to run, but he didn't. He refused to. And in the end, someone grabbed him from behind, a rag pressed to his face, everything going dark as he watched Niji stab Zoro, and then slicing his face.

When he came to, he was in his bedroom. He shot up, coming face to face with his father.

“Zoro! Please, you can't just-” He began, but Judge seemed to have it all planed out.

“If you've noticed, Sanji, my business has lost quite a bit of money in the last year, almost going bankrupt.”

“So? Why the fuck do I care?” He didn't, he just wanted to make sure Zoro was okay.

“I found a way to make up what we've lost. And Sanji, as useless as you are, you're the one that's going to bring a hefty source of income.”

“How?! And why me?”

“Because unlike your brothers, you have these useless emotions. You care too much, have too much passion for things, you're too pretty, care too much about your looks. Men will eat it up, want to see you cry in pain.”

“What the hell are you talking about?” He had no clue what Judge was hinting at. Sure, he knew he had all those things that Judge mentioned, but what did that have to do with anything? How was he supposed to bring him in any money at all?

“Oh Sanji, you're more innocent than you let on. Good thing Zoro didn't take that type of innocence from you.”

“The fuck? I'm not some innocent-”

There was a knock on the door, causing both men to look towards the door.

“Come in,” The evil smirk on Judge's face is one that Sanji would never forget. In came a young man with fiery red hair, a broad chest and...lipstick? Was he wearing lipstick too? Fucking weirdo.

“Welcome, Eustass.” Judge greeted.

“So, finally 18, eh?” This Eustass was smirking too, it felt like he was undressing him with his eyes. It made his shiver in disgust. He was nasty and hideous, gave him an uncomfortable feeling.

“Yeah, he just turned 18, and now, as per our agreement, he's all your for the night.”

“The fuck are you saying?!” Sanji was starting to panic, as he watched Judge leave the room, shutting the door, he heard a click signaling it being locked from the outside. He walked to the door, attempting to open it, but it's locked.

“You heard your father. You're all mine for the night, I can do whatever I want with you.” Was this man in his original universe?! Because he'd never heard of him before. But the way he acted, looked. Seemed like he'd be some sort of ruthless pirate.

Sanji wasn't stupid. Or naive. He knew what his father and Eustass were hinting at. But he refused to go down without a fight.

“Fuck off, you red-haired freak.”

He tried. So hard, to fight Eustass off, but in the end, mentally, Eustass had the upper hand.

“All I need is a quick word, and your lover will be sent to the hospital and saved. Resist, and he dies in the gardens your tried to escape from.” Sanji froze. Zoro would be okay?

“Fine. Fine!” He yelled, trying to calm the beating of his heart. “Help him first, then you can do whatever you want.” Eustass smirked, pulling out his cell phone to send a quick text.

“You better not being lying.”

“Don't worry, I have no reason to lie. If I really wanted, I could drug you into submission. But,” He paused, looming over Sanji. He was so tall. Too tall. He felt overwhelmed and grossed out. “I'd rather have you alert and crying while I fuck you open.”

For Sanji, the night was full of pain and terror. Eustass' touch made him nauseous, the disgusting kisses he forced him into made him gag. It was horrifying. So unlike Zoro. He hated it, hated the feeling, the pain, the blood. But he had to. Had to do it for Zoro.

But he didn't beg. He refused to. Although Eustass loved to see him cry, even licked the tears off his cheek when Sanji would turn away and try to hide it. Laughed in his face when Sanji groaned and winced in pain.

Sanji finally passed out around 5 in the morning.

When he woke up in the morning, Eustass was, thankfully, gone. But the evidence of the entire night stayed with him. Dried blood and other fluids between his legs, bruises on his hips, bite marks across his neck, bottom lip swollen.

Disgusting. He felt disgusting. Like he'd never be clean again.

He didn't want to move, but at the same time, wanted to wash all the filth off of him, needed to scrub every inch of his body. Glancing up, he saw the door to the bathroom. Reluctantly, and with a wince, he swung his legs over the bed and made his way the bathroom. Shower. He needed a hot shower.

When the hot water hit him, he began to scrub himself raw, unable to stop the tears from flowing. He wasn't weak. No, refused to be. But he couldn't help but feel disgusted with himself.

Judge lets him out an hour later, a tray of food in his hands that Sanji didn't have the stomach to eat.

“You see now, the only use your pathetic life has? Eustass was pleased and will be returning at some point. soon Keep it up and don't resist, and your precious Zoro and Zeff will be safe.”

What? Sanji's eyes widened slightly. It was too much like back in his own universe. Judge hanging it over his head. And Sanji knew he'd act on it, too.

“L...leave them alone.”

“Yeah, I will. I'll even let you see them both, keep your job at Baratie, see your pathetic friends. As long as you comply with your clients, all will be well with those you care for.”

Sanji reluctantly agreed. What other choice did he have, really? He could see what this Judge was capable of. And even if this wasn't his own universe, he didn't want anyone he cared for getting hurt.

“You're free for the rest of the day. Maybe go visit that old chef you're so very fond of. He may have some information on you're beloved Zoro.” Sanji didn't have to be told twice. He dashed out of the room like it was on fire. Despite the movements hurting his sore body, he sprinted to Baratie.

Baratie wasn't open yet, but he busted the doors to the kitchen open, taking everyone by surprise.

“Hey!” Zeff yelled, not realizing who it was. “We're not open yet- Sanji!” He placed down the knife he had to walk over to him, placing his hands gently on his shoulders.

“Sanji, I was worried.” Zeff's expression softened.

“Zoro...where....is he okay?”

“Yes, of course he is. He's here. He's been waiting for you. Zoro!” Within seconds, Zoro appeared, ignoring everyone else in the room to walk over to his boyfriend.

“Sanji-”It felt weird, Zoro saying his name, especially in this pathetic attempt to pity and comfort him. Zoro reached out for him, and Sanji took a step back, flinching.

“Sanji, it's me, it's okay.” Sanji prided himself on his bravery. On acting like he didn't need help, when he really did. He didn't want to show anyone he was hurting. Even though he wanted nothing more than to crash into Zoro's arms.

How could this universe go so wrong, too? It was even worse than the last one he was in. He needed to get back home before things got worse.

“Please, let me hold you.” Zoro was missing an eye for fucks sake. Whatever his fathers goons did to him, it caused him to lose his eye! How could Zoro not be mad at him?

“It's my fault.”

“What?”

“Y...your eye. It's my fault.”

“Tch, nah. I just fought back. I wasn't about to lose without a fight. And look? I'm fine. It's an eye, I'll live.” And Sanji knew he would, back in his own universe, after their two year training apart, Zoro came back missing an eye. So yeah, it wasn't that odd. But knowing it was his fault this time.

“What did Judge make you do, Eggplant?” Ahh, yeah, Zeff was still there, he had almost forgotten about him.

“I...it doesn't' matter! I don't want to talk about it.” But the look of pity on Zeff's face told Sanji that Zeff knew. Knew whatever arrangement he had had come to fruition.

“I can leave, kid, so you can be safe, if your father is threatening to harm me.”

For a moment, Sanji wanted to say yes, wanted Zeff to get the fuck out of here. Because he couldn't trust that his own father would keep his word. But no. No! Baratie was here, Zeff's life. He couldn't let him give that up. Besides, he knew his father had plenty of ears and eyes. If Zeff went away, Judge would find him.

“No. No it's fine. Stay here, where your belong.” He turned to Zoro, leaning forward to give the other man a quick kiss to quell his thoughts. “I gotta work, see you later?”

“Call me tonight,” Zoro said as he left.

A few days go by, and Sanji is relieved that no one has 'rented him out'. He hadn't called Zoro that night, or any night in between. The guilt and disgust was eating away at him. How could Zoro even stand to look at him anymore?

He also had to figure out how to get back to his own universe. What was the trigger to pull him back? He had to figure it out. He was so sick of living in a universe that sucked.

Gentle knocking at his window caused him to look up, to see Zoro at his window, waving at him. With a sigh, Sanji stood up to open the window, letting him in.

“Why are you avoiding me?” Zoro asks. No hello or how are you. Right to it. Typical.

“I'm not. I've been busy.”

“Bullshit.”

“No, I-”

“Listen, I know what your father is doing, it's why I wanted to bad to get you out of here.”

“Get me out of here? I'm not some damsel in distress that needs to be saved! Fuck off, asshole.” The moment the words left his lips, he felt bad. Zoro looked like he had been punched in the stomach.

“I know,” He reached forward, gently grasping Sanji's chin. He flinched, slightly, but let Zoro touch him, it felt nice, comfortable.

“I just wanted us to spend the rest of our lives together, despite everything.” Shit, he was being such an asshole to Zoro, and Zoro didn't deserve it.

“Shit, I'm sorry.”

“Tch, it's fine, you say I know I'm hard-headed, and so are you, even if you deny it.” That made him feel better. Hearing Zoro insult him.

“Can I kiss you?” Sanji felt his heart flutter, just a little.

“Yeah, you can do more than kiss me, too.”

Things were okay for a while, until Judge locks Sanji up with another client. DoFlamingo. That nasty warlord he hated the guys of back in his own universe.

DoFlamingo was worse. So much worse than Eustass, and broke his wrist in the process of using him.

Judge didn't even take him to the hospital. Sanji had to get Chopper to set his wrist and put it in a soft cast.

Things got progressively worse from then on. Eustass was back, weekly. And DoFlamingo came whenever he wanted.

Zoro. Poor Zoro had tried so hard to comfort him, but Sanji pushes him away, pushes everyone away. He stopped working at Baratie, and avoided everyone. Zoro would sneak into his room, often. Even just to hold him, because Sanji was at a point where he barely wanted to be touched. Zoro complied, just wanted to make Sanji feel better. Wanted to be near him, to be there, so Sanji knew he cared.

“We'll find a way, I promise,” Zoro whispered one chill morning, before slipping out before Sanji had even woken up.

That night, Judge came to visit him, seeming even more pleased.

“You have a new client today, one I never thought would come to rent you out. He's going to help with the money troubles now, significantly.”

“Wh...who?” He didn't even want to fathom a guess. DoFlamingo and Eustass were bad enough – and they came once a week now. Who could be worse than them?

“I'll make my exit. Behave, more than normal tonight, Sanji, if you know what's good for Zoro and Zeff.” He knew that. Of course he knew. It's why he didn't fight anymore. But...who could this person be that Judge seemed so happy about?

Two hours ticked by, and Sanji grew restless. As much as he was dreading it, he just wanted to get it over with. On cue, there was a knock, and someone entered.

Fuck.

No.

Anyone but him.

Shanks!

It was Shanks! Sure, he'd never met the man, but the amount of times Luffy spoke about him, he knew who Shanks was. Did this mean Shanks wasn't the hero Luffy thought he was.

“N...no! Not you! Anyone but you!” He was panicking.

“What ever are you talking about? Have we met before? I'm sure I'd have remembered those gorgeous eyes of yours.” His voice and demeanor seemed so...kind. Like he had no need to fear this man. But there was also something dark and deep about him.

“No, but...Luffy...he's talked about you.” Shank's eyes went dark, cruel.

“Oh? I haven't seen Luffy in years, he still brings me up? Nice to hear.”

“Please, don't do this.” Sanji felt the need to push back, more than ever. Mostly, to protect Luffy. So his hero didn't become something so disgusting and unforgiving.

“Have the others been cruel to you?” Shanks asked, advancing on him, crawling into bed and pulling him close.

“Have they hurt you? Brought you pain? Don't worry, Sanji, I won't be the same. I want you to feel good as you make me feel.”

Perhaps that was the worst part. Shanks wasn't cruel. Didn't push into him raw and unprepared. He wasn't exactly gentle, but he wasn't cruel, either. He took his time with him, treated him like he was a person. It was honestly worse than the cruelness and pain he felt. He'd rather have the cruelty. Not the almost tenderness that Shanks had. The sweet touches when he held onto him. and as he pushed inside of him after basically ripping his clothes off.

“You're so gorgeous. No wonder Zoro enjoys having you.” A soft smile accompanied the gentle voice some gruffness lacing it from the pleasure he was feeling.

No! How did Shanks even know about that? Surely his father didn't say anything?

“No, he-Nnn!” Fuck, why was Shanks trying to make him feel good? The others just cared about their own pleasure. Fucked him without any regards to him. Didn't care if they were hurting him.

“Yeah, tell me more?” Everything felt like it was starting to spiral. He felt slight pleasure in the haze of darkness, but all in all, he could hear a voice, the only voice he wanted to hear.

Zoro.

Always

The whisper came, like a secret in his ear, and everything turned to black.