One Piece: Nefertari Vivi - "Guessing Game"

Title: Guessing Game
Author: princeivy
Fandom: One Piece
Rating: PG
Character: Nefertari Vivi (Miss Wednesday), Mr. 9, Sanji
Theme: #2 – A drop of lilac
Summary: “The lilac perfume was a present from her mother, years before she had any interest in having an aromatic presence whatsoever.”
Warnings: None
Notes: Takes place before the crew’s arrival at Whiskey Peak.

The lilac perfume was a present from her mother, years before she had any interest in having an aromatic presence whatsoever. But the bottle was pretty, and the product was rare for Alabastian manufacturing. It was one of the very, very few things she took with her when she and Igaram left the palace and joined Baroque Works. She didn’t use it much – just every now and then. The scent was comforting and played a part in helping her remember home, helping her keep herself together.

She returned the bottle to her bag, tucking it inside securely as Mr. 9 laughed in quiet triumph, keeping an eye on the door to ensure they were alone.

“Can you believe our luck? These fool pirates!”

She turned to him and smirked, playing along.

“They honestly have no idea what awaits them at Whiskey Peak. They’ll have no idea what hit them.”

“Pow, baby!”

Mr. 9 sauntered up to her, draping an arm over her shoulders. She clenched her jaw, resisting the urge to cringe and move away.

“You smell good, baby,” he leered at her. “Just like strawberries. Am I right?”

“Yeah,” she forced out, trying to be casual as she shrugged off his arm. “Exactly.”

She left the small room and went out onto the deck, letting the sea breeze ruffle her hair. She inhaled deeply, relishing the fragrance of ocean air and lilac. She thought of home and felt at ease.

“Ah, Miss Wednesday~!”

She plastered on a smile as the blonde man approached her with adoration in his eyes. She didn’t mind pretending to be friendly with him; he wouldn’t last long once they got to Whiskey Peak.

“Would you like a refreshing drink, my darling?”

“Yes, please,” she replied, batting her eyelashes a little for added effect. “I’d like that very much.”

“Then I shall bring you one right away~!” He turned to go and do just that, but stopped and faced her again. “My, such a lovely scent!”

She refrained from rolling her eyes. Not again…

“Lilac, isn’t it?”

She found herself surprised, and she was certain her expression showed it.

“It…yes.” She smiled, this time for real. “Yes, it is.”

He returned her smile with a charming one of his own.

“It suits you. Beautiful.”

He left into the galley to fix her drink, leaving her staring after him. For the first time since leaving Alabasta, she felt warm.