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Honestly, I can’t see Brook ever having considered parenthood as a necessary part of his future. Sure— when he was first alive, he entertained the idea of someday settling down with a beautiful woman and maybe starting a family together, but even then it was a far off possibility in favor of his ongoing life of piracy. If he was to be a father, he knew he would only want the best and the safest life for his family.
But then he died, losing all reproductive organs in the process. He lost many functions, including the ability to father any children of his own.
You knew this going into a relationship with him. Frankly, you didn’t mind, because you’d never really desired having children in the first place. Initially, Brook was nervous that you’d struggle with his shortcomings— but knowing this helped to ease the burden from his mind.
That aside, you two are often asked to babysit the children of your old crew mates, being one of the only couples that have free time to spare. Thankfully, the crew’s children grew up around Brook, so naturally they’re the only kids in the world that are used to his appearance and who won’t cry out of fear. They find him amusing if anything, sometimes climbing up and down his tall skeletal frame like a playground. Brook’s instinct is to always spoil them, offering them candy and toys at any chance he gets. You, on the other hand, are always reminding Brook that too much sugar can be bad for them. (It seems like Brook forgot, since he hasn’t been affected by sugar in ages. You chuckle at his forgetfulness, not letting his good intentions be lost on you.)
On the other side, you teach the kids how to be adventurous. You are the aunt that brings them on fun trips, even if it’s quite risky ones.
“But they’re pirates!” You insisted one time to Usopp when he scolded you for bringing his kids on a hike to a waterfall.
“They’re kids,” he retorted, sending his rowdy bunch back to their room.
You scoffed and crossed your arms. “Boo. You used to be so fun, Usopp,” you teased.
He rolled his eyes, then replied with, “You forget they’re Kaya’s kids, too.”
You then let out a small sigh, saying, “Damn, you’re right. I’ll be more careful next time.”
Your slight recklessness aside, you and Brook do a great job at babysitting. You make sure the kids are never bored, while he makes sure they’re always comfortable and safe. Brook really shines when it’s time to tuck the kids into bed, though. If by the time he finishes a storybook they’re still awake (which they usually are), he will help coax them to sleep by either humming a tune or using his violin if he has it on him. You watch in slight awe as he softly plays them a lullaby, and can’t help but imagine that he’s serenading a pair of children of your own. When he finally manages to put them to sleep, he quietly bids them good night, then makes his way back to where you lean against the open door frame. He tilts his head curiously.
“What is it, my love?” He asks in a quiet tone as to not disturb the children. A huff of fascination escapes your lips.
“Nothing. You’re just great with kids,” you say.
He replies almost bashfully, scratching the back of his neck. “Yohoho! I try,” he softly replies, then silently closes the door to the children’s bedroom behind him.
You don’t regret a thing. While it’s heartwarming to see Brook interact with children, you’re thankful that you’re done with the responsibility once their real parents come home. When you two finally arrive back at your place, exhausted from a day of babysitting, you collapse on the couch to rest.
“Phew… what a long day,” you muse to yourself, cuddling up against his chest in the way you have so many times before. He holds your shoulder in return.
“Tell me about it,” he replies, similarly weary.
“I’m surprised you didn’t pass out from that roller coaster the kids forced you on,” you say, a smirk playing at the corners of your mouth. Brook can’t help but sigh at the memory from earlier.
“Goodness… I really thought that was the end of the line for me, dearest. And that’s after a lifetime of being in battles and sword fights!” He exclaims, much to your amusement. You had tried to convince him to refrain from going on it, knowing how much he hated thrill rides. But he insisted on riding it— he would discard any personal discomfort for the sake of the children. He wants them to remember Uncle Brook as a part of their extended family forever.
Nonetheless, it’s safe to say you two won’t be bringing the kids to an amusement park anytime soon.