Work Text:
An empty cavity replacing flesh and bone, he thought back to that day.
His one lost action.
'So sweet you are, so innocent
So trusting.
Who am I to take away that trust?
Who am I but the son of a demon?
If I had kissed him, who knows where we'd be now.
Even if it was only once and I was pushed away like an unwanted hug.
It would have made my life...different.
I wouldn't.
I didn't.
Instead I showed that I loved him in other ways.
I protected him. Taught him. Made him strong.
Made him able to take care of himself.
I wouldn't want him like this.
Dying.
Chained.
He needs to be free. Unfettered. Able to be who he truly is.
Luffy.
You are my only regret.'