Hello everyone. This is a one shot that I have had on my mind for a while and decided to write it down.

Might be OOC. I have literally no idea what I am doing or if it's any good.

Also have an OC, or sorta OC. He's not from one piece world, but an another. Easily recognized if you have seen him. I didn't have much fantasy, I'm sorry.

And two warnings. There is hints to non-con/rape, not described. And there is a smut scene at the end, which pretty much wraps everything up. And this is a Thatch/Marco/Ace, so threesome. But it's not too graphic.

Hope everyone enjoys

Marco was worried and angry. Worried because Ace was missing and they were trying to find him. And angry because it was one from their family who had betrayed them and taken Ace. Jacob, a man from the sixth division, had apparently always been a spy and had planned to betray them from the beginning, but he had been figured out. When he had, he had panicked and taken Ace as a hostage and run away, running to the marines he was working for. It had been almost 5 days since it had happened and Marcos nerves were slowly starting to get too worked up and worry starting to take over. Marco didn't want to relax until Ace was back and safe with them. Marco was overworked and full with worry.

As he sat and massaged his head at his desk, a hand came and stroked his back. Marco turned his head and looked at Thatch, who was looking at him worriedly. Marco knew Thatch was worried about Ace too, but he also worried for him. Marco had barely slept and eaten the last days, being to worried and wanting to do everything he could to find Ace, not wanting to relax until they found him and killed the idiots that took him. ¨Anything, yoi?¨ Asked the first commander, hoping Thatch brought good news. Thatch gave a somewhat nod, ¨He's at the west, or we think he is. Pops changing direction now.¨ Marco nodded, that was better than what they had had until this point. A had came to his cheek, ¨Try to relax, nothing will happen for at last a day.¨

Marco frowned, ¨I can just fly ahead and-,¨ Thatch silenced him by placing his lips over his. Marco instantly leaned into the kiss, feeling how everything that was weighing down on him. Marco knew Thatch was worried, but he was better at admitting something was wrong and went to others for comfort, especially to Pops. Marco tried to stay strong, no matter what, he didn't want to relax or say he was as worried and overworked as he were. When they parted, Thatch shook his head. ¨You're not going alone. We will go together and kill those bastards and we'll have Ace back in out bed in no time, safe.¨ Marco gave a sigh and nod. He knew Pops would never send him alone, even though he wanted to go ahead and see. And he hoped Thatch was right, that Ace would soon be back in their arms, safe and sound.

Marco and Thatch had been a couple for almost 4 years now. When Ace had joined half a year ago, both was instantly attracted by his rashness and amazing body, which he didn't hide. After he had Thatch had spoken about it, they had invited the kid into joining them and being a third party. Ace had struggled at first, but had opened up more after some time. And Ace fit with them perfectly. He completed them and made their bond even stronger. But now he was gone, and it made a hole in Marcos heart, aching every time he was reminded that their young lover was kidnapped and being kept a prisoner. Thatch grabbed his hand and dragged him to stand. ¨Now come to bed and relax. You've barely slept at all the last days.¨

Thatch led him to the bed and laid down, dragging him to lay down next to him. Bodies instantly tangled together for comfort, Marco missing the small frame which used to be in between them. He hoped they would find Ace soon and that he would be fine.

-x-

Ace felt his body aching and tried to keep himself silent. His body badly bruised and used. Everything aching and hurting, some places even bleeding. He had no idea how long he had been here or if he was even being searched for. It felt like he had been here for weeks, but he had no idea, the stupid blindfold kept him from seeing. Ace had tried for days to release himself from the seastone cuffs that had him chained to a bed, keeping his naked body stretched out. Only thing that might cover him was something he believed to be a thin blanket.

Ace wanted to believe he was being searched for, but he hadn't been a part of the crew for long, barely half a year. And he had uses a hundred days to try and kill the captain. Maybe they didn't see the reason to fight for him, a way to rid of him without having to do it themselves.

Ace felt a sob leave him, he missed everyone on the boat. He missed Whitebeard, he missed all of the commanders and crew members who made him feel at home and loved. Ace missed Thatch and Marco. Ace hated to be alone, to be alone and think no one would look for him. He knew they had said time and time again, that he was loved and a part of their crew, their family. But he always had doubts, doubts they didn't really mean it.

Ace felt his hope dwindling more as he heard his door opening and someone coming inside. Ace felt the man grabbing his arm as a needle was pushed into his elbow and he was injected with some kind of drug. Ace had no idea what it was, but it made his body hot and oversensitive, making this sessions much worse than they already were. And the drug made him unable to fight back, not that he could do much because of the seastone, but it made him even weaker. The worst part, was that the drug confused his body, making him hard and a few times even giving him an unwilling orgasm, making him being laughed at and being called the whore he was.

And Ace was starting to believe them. To believe their words. That no one was coming for him and that he was no more than a body to be used. A pretty and dirty whore as they called him.

And Ace was scared, not only that he might die here alone. But if he was rescued, how could he face the pirates again, how could he face Pops, or worse, Marco and Thatch. What if he was dirty? What if he had gotten anything from this sick bastards. What if they didn't believe he didn't want this? What if they wouldn't believe him and think he was a dirty whore as they continued to call him.

Ace felt his body heating up as he gave a few pants, the drug starting to take effect. The man gave a sick laugh and a grunt as he took a hold of Aces legs, parting them.

Ace let out a scream as he harshly pushed inside.

-x-

Ace was trying to keep his hope up, telling himself that he as going to be saved, that he was loved. But by each passing minute and visit from the different sick people, he felt his hope ebbing away slowly. Ace had even stopped struggling completely, not seeing any reason too. Ace was going to die alone, die in this hellhole, completely alone. Ace had thankfully gotten something to eat and drink today, being told he couldn't die yet, that he was too much fun to let die.

Ace was close to giving up.

As he laid with the thin blanket thankfully covering him, Ace heard some faint sounds that shook the ship he was in. Sounds that sounded like cannons and battle. Ace couldn't help but get his hope up, desperately wishing he was being saved. As Ace laid and tied not to get his hope up, a booming voice was heard.

¨Give me my son back!¨ Ace felt tears starting to fall from his eyes, wetting the blindfold. He was being rescued. He was cared for, they actually came for him. Ace was loved.

As the sounds continued, also getting more closer and louder, the ship rocking from the battle above, someone opened the door to his room and walked inside. Ace felt someone straddle him, something being pushed to the side of his head. ¨They actually came for you, for a dirty whore like you.¨ The thing at his head was pushed harder against him. ¨And they will never get you back. If I can't use you for your body, they can't either.¨

Ace heard something clicking and realized it was a gun that was being held to his head.

Ace was finally saved and he was going to get shot. Ace was going to die. Ace felt a sob leave him, trying to get some kind of plead out, but unable to, only choking on his sobs, not able to speak.

Just as Ace was sure the man was going to pull the trigger, the weight was suddenly thrown off him as Ace heard a thud from the man hitting the wall or floor.

When Ace felt a hand touch his cheek, he flinched. ¨Ace?¨ Ace felt his breath hitch, could it be? The blindfold was quickly removed and Ace saw blond hair and blue eyes looking at him worriedly. Ace let another sob leave him as he looked at Marco, who was caressing his cheek as he looked at the chains he was held in. ¨IZOU!¨ Yelled the first commander, before looking down at Ace. ¨It's going to be fine, yoi. We're going to get you out, you're safe now.¨ Ace couldn't help the sobs that continued to leave him, so glad he was being saved, that they cared this much for him. Marco tried to comfort him the best he could, by telling him sweet nothings and caressing his face, drying his tears as they continued to fall.

Izou soon came into his view and gave him a worried look before he started on lockpicking the chains and getting them off. As soon as they were off, Ace held around himself, dragging the blanket closer to him. Ace wanted to hold around Marco, to have him continue to tell him he was saved and everything was going to be fine.

But he couldn't. Ace wasn't the clean and normal kid he had been. He was dirty and used. He was not supposed to be happy with Marco or Thatch, they didn't deserve him. They deserved something better.

Marco placed a hand on his cheek again, ¨Ace?¨ He asked carefully, looking at him worriedly. Ace could only look at him through blurred and tear filled eyes. He couldn't face this and him now. Izou gave a worried look when he didn't respond. ¨We should get him back to the boat.¨ Marco gave a nod, looking at Ace with a small frown. When Marco looked at his face again, he gave an apologetic look, before taking his hands under his legs and back, lifting him up. Ace felt his breath hitch as he was lifted, his wounds and battered body being jostled. Marco thankfully took the blanket with him, keeping his body shielded.

Ace let his head rest against Marcos shoulder as tears fell from his eyes, the sobs thankfully stopping. Marco gave him a look of concern when Ace didn't react more, before he started to walk out, taking him back to the ship. Taking him back home.

Ace felt his body resting exhausted against the first commander as Marco tried to walk carefully with Ace. Ace saw many familiar faces as they walked, everyone giving him worried and concerned looks. Ace felt drained and empty, fighting to keep his eyes open. He was saved, but he didn't feel like he was worth anything anymore, Ace was worthless.

When they got closer to the boat, they was met with Thatch, who looked at Ace worriedly, touching his cheek carefully. The concerned look intensifying when he didn't respond, only looking at the distance with empty and exhausted eyes. When Thatch had looked at Marco, the first commander had shaken his head and said he was bringing Ace to the infirmary. Ace was too tired to care, he wanted to sleep and relax and make everything go back to as it was before, before he was taken and made worthless.

Ace managed to keep himself awake at the infirmary while Bay checked him over. Ace kept saying he was fine and he didn't need anything, that he only wanted to go to his room and sleep. Bay had checked his body over, asking about the needle marks at his arm and all the bruises. Ace lied and said it was nothing, only test wounds and bruises. He wasn't going to tell what they did, he wasn't going to tell how worthless he had become. Bay didn't seem convinced, but had let him go after giving him a normal checkup, thankfully not checking his private parts and finding out.

As soon as she said fine, Ace ran out of the infirmary and to his room, his private room. He didn't go to the shared room he had with Thatch and Marco, he couldn't face them. He couldn't take being around them now, he wanted to be alone. Ace felt himself crying as he laid in bed. He could never be with Marco and Thatch again. He could never tell them about what happened, they wouldn't look at him the same way. And what if he wasn't clean, what if he caught anything? He could take the chance.

Ace cried himself to sleep, glad when no one came and checked on him. He had been told this was his room, he could be alone here, no one would barge in. He was glad they kept that promise. Ace cried himself to sleep, glad no one came and checked on him. Ace wanted to be alone.

-x-

Marco gave a sigh as he sat down at the table in the galley. When he sat down, he got multiple worried looks. ¨Anything?¨ He heard Thatch ask. Marco shook his head, making a few faces fall as the worried looks got worse. Ace had been back for almost 2 days and had not come out of his room. The only reason they hadn't done anything, was because the food they sat on the outside got eaten, meaning Ace was there, but didn't want to come out. Haruta looked at him with concerned eyes. ¨Why don't we go in his room? We haven't seen him in days!¨ Marco gave a sigh, ¨We have told Ace that room is his, yoi. Unless he hadn't eaten in a day, we can't do it. We have a promise.¨ The commanders at the table nodded.

When Marco looked at his father, he saw he was worried too, not liking Ace was hiding. Bay had said he was only bruised and a few wounds, as well as something in his blood she couldn't quite confirm what was, but he didn't have any reactions on it and was eating, so she had let him be, saying Ace needed space. The captain gave Marco a comforting look, a look that promised everything would be fine. Ace would hopefully come out soon. Ace wasn't one to like to be alone, he liked to be around people and run around. Both Bay and Whitebeard had said that if Ace came out, to give him space, unless he seemed to want something else. It might be hard for Ace to be around them, from the bruises he had, it was no doubt he was abused, closed to tortured. Touch might be hard. Everyone had agreed.

When the evening approached, Marco noticed a black haired kid slowly and carefully walking across the deck.

Marco felt a relieved breath leave him, seeing Ace was out of his room. Ace seemed uncomfortable and unsure, looking almost scared as he fidgeted. Marco could see many, everyone actually, that noticed Ace, looked at him in worry, especially when they saw him wearing a sweater. But Bay had said Ace had bruises, it might be to hide them. Ace never liked to show he was anything but fine, being a stubborn boy. But seeing Ace look this small and uncertain, was something none of them liked. Ace wasn't supposed to look like that.

When Ace sent a look towards him, Marco gave a soft smile, but didn't say anything. He had a feeling Ace wouldn't like that right now and Ace wasn't walking towards him, or Thatch for that matter, but towards Pops chair on the deck. When The captain saw the kid trailing closer to him with the uncertain look and fidgeting, Whitebeard offered a small smile, before looking away, trying not to stare at the kid. It did seem like Ace didn't want to be in the main attention right now. As Ace came close to the chair Pops sat in, Ace carefully sat down on the deck next to it, leaning on the chair.

Pops gave a smile, looking glad Ace was out of his room. Marco had to smile himself. Ace didn't look fine, but he was at least out of his room, which was a huge relief.

Ace sat carefully next to Pops chair for a few hours, looking uncomfortable when someone, especially when he or Thatch came close. This made the first commander really worried. Ace seemed to be avoiding them and not like it when he or Thatch looked at him. Ace was a really clingy person. After he had become more comfortable around him and Thatch, he was almost always around them, wanting to be as close as possible, especially enjoying being sandwiched between them when they slept. But Ace would hopefully come around, Bay had said it might take time. And they didn't want to rush Ace, Bay had said it might backfire and make Ace worse. Ace needed to come to them.

When Ace returned to his room, everyone had let out a breath of relief, glad to see Ace, to see him in person.

And that was how it was continued for a couple days. Ace coming out and sitting by Pops chair, not wanting to be close to the others. It did at least show Ace trusted the man, that he could be around him. Pops had once asked Ace if he wanted a story, which Ace had nodded to. Ace had not yet spoken, which also was a small concern. Ace had given a small smile to Marco once, which made him really happy. It would take time, but they would get over this obstacle, they would help Ace. Marco only wished Ace would ask for help.

After 2 more days, Ace started speaking.

He spoke to Pops mainly at first. Not speaking about anything special, but random things, like the weather or other things the captain came up with. It was after an another day that Ace, after Ace showed up at breakfast, the meal where there was the least people, Ace had started to talk to others, but still looking uncertain and scared, looking like a lost kid. Ace did talk to him and Thatch too, but that was it. Ace didn't want any closeness, he didn't want anyone to touch him. Marco could see Ace clutching and pulling on his sweater, like a nervous or scared habit he had gotten. They mostly let Ace be, even though Marco wanted to hold Ace and make sure he was fine. But Ace clearly didn't want that, something that bothered the first commander much more than he would like to admit.

It did bother the chef too, but he seemed to understand it and gave Ace his space. Thatch and Marco had stopped completely in locking their door at all times, in case Ace wanted to go inside, something that hadn't happened yet. But they still hoped. It had taken time to go to Pops, someone Ace trusted. It might only be a matter of time.

After an another day, a boat suddenly approached them, not a familiar boat, a boat they had never seen.

When it was close enough, a man boarded. A single man, the boat seeming to be empty aside from the one man. He was in his late forties, looking his age as he had a beard, wrinkles and a cane he used to walk with, and a looked to be having an attitude as he didn't even spare the captain a look. The captain gave him a stern glare, asking who he were. The man didn't turn to look at him. ¨House. Now stop being annoying.¨ Everyone stared at the man in shock, wondering how he dared to even take a condescending tone like that, especially after he literally just walked on board. Just as the captain frowned and was about to say something else, probably demanding why he was here, the man, House, started yelling.

¨Portgas! Get your idiotic face out here.¨

Everyone froze as he yelled. Ace wasn't in a good place right now, having this man suddenly yell and come like this might not be good. But before they could say or do anything, Ace suddenly came past a corner, having a frown, tilting his head when he saw the man. ¨House?¨ Marco blinked. Ace knew this man? Ace had told him and Thatch about basically everyone he knew. House was a name he had never heard before. House gave a sneer, ¨What the hell are you doing? Hermiting yourself solves nothing. Now let's go, I have something for you to check out, Dimwit.¨ Marco was on his way to force the man away as he started speaking to Ace in a degrading manner.

But Marco froze when Ace smiled, actually smiled.

Ace hadn't smiled a lot, barely giving anything close to the one he gave now, which looked to be genuine. Ace gave a nod and followed House when he started walking towards Ace's room, seeming much gladder than he had in awhile.

Everyone stood frozen for a second, not sure how to act or react to that. They had no idea who that were, and normally they would have thrown him off for speaking like that. But he made Ace smile. Marco threw a look at his father, who seemed as shocked as he were, but he hadn't said anything. And for Ace to actually smile, must mean Ace knew this man pretty well.

Marco looked at Pops. ¨Should we let him stay, yoi?¨ He didn't seem like a nice man, at least not off the bat. They might be wrong, but he seemed like a stoic and hurtful man. But he had somehow made Ace smile and wanted to go with him, even bringing him into his room, a place where none of them had been in a long while. Pops gave a small sigh. ¨For now, I think he can stay. If Ace shows signs of not liking him, he will leave.¨ Everyone nodded. That sounded like a good idea. He did seem to know Ace was hiding away. How he knew, they didn't know. But if he might be able to help, they would let him stay. Something was really bothering Ace, seeming to be more than normal abuse and none of them had any idea what to do right now. They hadn't had this happening often.

As the day continued, the man, House, continued to reprimand everyone he saw and met, especially Ace, who was more out now. Even though he was saying a lot of comments that they were sure Ace would react badly too, he never did. He usually smiled or shrugged, but seemed to enjoy being around this man. Marco was jealous of this man too, to see him able to help and connect with Ace like this. But he didn't seem interested in Ace, at least not like he and Thatch was, and he was being overly flirting with the woman, somehow also using the hash comments in the flirts. It was weird. House just suddenly came and acted like he was above all, calling everyone idiots, morons and other names he came up with.

But as long as he somehow made Ace better, they could handle it.

-x-

The commanders and captain meeting had been ongoing for an hour and everyone was gathered, even Bay, who had her monthly day where she told them of every injury and if anything should be done. She had spoken about Ace a bit, saying House somehow managed to make Ace better. When she had asked him, he had said he just didn't care and was himself, giving Ace a stability and normalcy in his day, something he needed. Also degrading her on her job accurately, making her believe he was a doctor of some kind.

A few minutes later, the door banged open as House came stalking inside, looking mad, more so than usual. ¨Where are the tests?¨ He asked, looking directly at Bay. Bay frowned, ¨Tests?¨ House gave an aggravated sigh, shoving a folder in her face. After frowning for a second as she looked it over, she sent a piercing look at him. ¨How did you get Aces file?¨ House rolled his eyes. ¨I broke into your office.¨ Everyone frowned at that and the captain was about to speak, when House did, walking closer to Bay. ¨Now, where is the tests you have taken on Ace?¨ Bay frowned, looking the folder over. ¨They are here.¨ She said, pointing to a place. House looked even madder, actually pushing the folder out of her hands with his cane, making it spill to the floor.

¨You are the most incompetent, useless and stupid doctor I have ever met!¨ Said House, taking a step closer to Bay, even using his cane to push against her.

The captain was about to tell him to stop it, when the attention turned to him and his commanders. ¨And you must the most dense morons I have ever met! How can you not realize something this simple!¨ Everyone frowned, not sure what he was talking about. ¨What tests? No more tests was necessary.¨ Said Bay, looking at House in question. An angry sigh again. ¨An STD test, stupid woman.¨ Everyone frowned at that. Everyone knew all on the ship was clean, so they didn't see the reason. ¨Wh-,¨ Started Bay, but House cut her off.

¨Look at the signs! Found naked, bruised all over, chained and blindfolded. Even having needle marks and gamma hydroxybutyric acid in his blood. And none of you idiots managed to connect the dots?!¨

Everyone saw Bay went white, looking at the file again, muttering the thing he had in his blood to herself, before looking at House. ¨Tha-,¨ He rolled his eyes, cutting her off again. ¨Yes, that is the date rape drug. You know, the one that makes you hot, woozy and overall drugged up.¨ Everyone froze as the connected the dots, or hoped they didn't. ¨You mean...¨ Started the chef, getting the man's attention, who rolled his eyes again. ¨Bruises, not wanting touch, needle marks, even having the damn drug in his system. And I am sure he hasn't been able to be close to you or Birdy Boy there.¨ Thatch swallowed, it was true, Ace didn't want to be close to him or Marco. Everything made much more sense now, horribly so. ¨He was….¨ An angry sigh from the man again. ¨Yes! How hard is this?! Stupid, idiotic, Morons! Not even testing!¨

Bay got out of her shock, still looking sick at the new information, ¨Why didn't he ask or-,¨ The cane was pushed against her again. ¨Because he is terrified to find out.¨ He turned around and started stalking out, muttering about idiots and morons. When the door was open, he yelled Portgas again, stalking up to where they saw the kid now standing. As he was closing in, Marco started to move, now way more worried what the man might do and really worried for Ace. He had been raped and none of them had realized. House stopped when he was close to Ace, ¨I love you!¨ Everyone's mouth went slack, even Ace's. As soon as Aces was, House used a swat from his pocket to take a quick sample of Aces spit. ¨You will have the answer in a few days.¨ Said House as he stalked away.

He just took a test from Ace, just like that. Not asking or anything, startling him into giving him an opening, forcing him to take it. Something they never would have done, unless it was really important. Which this was. Before they could react, Ace looked at House in horrify. ¨House don-,¨ House turned around and pushed his cane to his chest, glaring at Ace. ¨You will take this test. Not only for you,¨ The cane was pointed to Marco and Thatch, ¨But for them too. You will take it!¨ Then he stalked off, muttering to himself. Ace sent a horrified and terrified look at them, opening and closing his mouth, trying to speak. They could see tears in his eyes. House was right. Ace was terrified to find out. Marco held a hand out to Ace, trying to look comfortingly at Ace. But before he could get a word out,

Ace turned around and fled. They heard Ace's door banging close a second later.

Marco sent a look at Whitebeard, no idea what to do next. Pops looked equally concerned and shocked. None of them had managed to connect the dots, even though it was this obvious. They felt awful.

-x-

Ace had locked himself inside his room again, not coming out. It had been almost two days and none had seen Ace, neither had Ace opened the door to get the food placed for him. Ace was completely shielding himself from them. Marco and Thatch had talked to Pops, getting him to agree that if Ace didn't eat dinner today, they would lock themselves in and give him the food. Ace had been locked up too long without food and everyone was worried.

House hadn't done anything either, only going around and basically humiliating people, something they got used to surprisingly fast. They had guesses it was because he wasn't too humiliating, going on a fine thin line.

As they sat and ate dinner, House suddenly came and grabbed the plate made for Ace and stalked away. Marco frowned, they weren't supposed to barge in like he did. ¨House, we can't just barge in, yoi. We have an agreement.¨ The man didn't turn around, continuing to stalk away. ¨I have an another agreement.¨ Marco looked at House, the frown staying. ¨What kind of agreement?¨ House stopped in the doorway, looking at him with a 'duh' face. ¨He don't get to choose.¨ Then the man left, rolling his eyes as he turned around.

Marco sat and watched the man leave. He was harsh and always used snide and hurtful comments, but he did seem to care for Ace his own way, somehow even making Ace smiling. Maybe getting a visit from him would be a good idea. Marco threw a look at Thatch, who looked at the door himself, concerned about their little lover. Marco gave a look to Pops, who gave a comforting smile back. House was special and worked his own way, but it apparently helped Ace come out. Marco took a breath as he went back to his food and tried to tell himself House would do his best to help Ace, to not be worried.

When dinner was over and no Ace had been seen, Marco wanted to go and check on Ace. But since House had not been seen either, he hoped he was with Ace. Until they saw the man, they wouldn't panic, not yet.

After hours, long after supper, Marco saw House walk across the deck, walking his usual angry sounding pace with his cane.

As Marco was on his way to ask about Ace, to see of he got to him, Marco saw the small black haired kid walking close to the man, seeming to really be uncomfortable and wanting to stay close to House for now, since he was somewhat leaning towards the man. Marco had a feeling House had forced Ace out, not wanting to have him closing himself inside, calling Ace a hermit for it.

House seemed to be walking towards the captain's chair and Ace followed, if this was something the kid or the man had wanted, was hard to decide. Ace had already proved he trusted Pops a lot and could stay around him, just as long as he was still given his space. When they were close enough to the chair and Marco saw Ace going further towards it, he believed Ace would sit next to it as he had before. But no, Ace didn't sit next to it, Ace walked up to it and sat closer to Pops, closer to his leg. When Ace did sit down, he leaned on the leg and seemed to be comforted by the presence. It was easy to see Pops really liked it, knowing Ace trusted him this much. This was also one of the first types of contact Ace had willingly given, meaning Ace was getting better.

After seeing Ace was comfortable out on the deck, House had given a usual comment and being mean before leaving, leaving Ace out alone on the deck with them. Ace did send a look after him, but stayed. Making them glad.

After almost two hours of silence, Ace spoke up himself. ¨Pops,¨ Said the kid in a low voice, getting a hum from the man. ¨Could you tell another story?¨ The captain had given a gigantic smile at that, saying ¨Of course, son.¨ Before starting a story.

Everyone was glad by this. Ace asked about it himself and was still leaning on the foot, the boot, but still. It was a much bigger improvement from before.

The next day, Ace showed up at breakfast and everything was as it had the days before. Ace looking uncomfortable and staying close to either House or Pops, not saying or doing much. He had spoken a few words with others, even with Marco and Thatch one time, but didn't look at them. They had no idea what was going through his head and they didn't want to scare him away, Bay had said time and time again that he needed to come to them. How House was able to just waltz in and get Ace better like this, was a mystery and House never revealed how. When Ace was better, they would ask him. And Ace would get better, they were going to make sure of it.

-x-

Ace sat by the breakfast table again and was doing a bit better than he had yesterday. Ace still looked really uncomfortable and scared, but he seemed to manage it better by each passing hour when none of them pushed Ace. Thatch and Marco had both tried to get a bit closer, something Ace had allowed, but never so close to be touching, something only Pops was allowed to. Ace also never looked at them in the eyes, avoiding them. They thought House might be allowed to, but they hadn't seen it. But House was the only one to be with Ace when he locked himself away.

As they sat and ate, trying to be in good spirit. House suddenly came and held an envelope in front of Ace.

Marco could clearly see Ace not liking the envelope as he fidgeted, eyebrows furrowing in uncertainty and small horror and fear at being faced with his fear. When Ace made no movement, House gave a whistle, shaking it. Ace had taken it and stared transfixed at it, not doing anything. After some minutes, Ace shook his head, looking close to breaking. ¨I can't do it.¨ He said as he handed it back to House. House, of course, being the man he was, opened the envelope and took a parchment out, reading it.

¨Oh my God! This is horrible!¨ Said House in a loud voice, making everyone, especially Ace, freeze and look at the man in horror. The parchment was soon turned around and shown to be a picture of House. ¨It didn't get my frame at all.¨

Marco wanted to hit the man for that. Ace had let out an exasperated sound, looking so damn close to just breaking together and burst out crying. ¨House!¨ Ace had yelled, even panting from adrenaline and fear, tears in dark eyes, threatening to fall. House had shaken his head, handing him another envelope, this one already opened. ¨Here, it's the right one, I promise.¨ Ace had taken it and stared at it in for a long time, before ultimately shaking his head, handing it back to House, a tear falling down Ace's cheek. ¨I-I can't do it!¨ He had said before running out of the galley.

House had given an exasperated sound, looking at them, especially at Marco and Thatch, ¨He's clean, which is a miracle. Nothing to worry about.¨ Marco felt a relieved breath leave him and heard he wasn't the only one. House turned around a second later, ¨Now, if you excuse me. I need to place this is Aces room.¨ Marco frowned, ¨Why not just tell him, yoi?¨ House had shaken his head, ¨Because he needs to read it himself. He can't hide away, he won't get better if he do. This means no telling him!¨ House had pointed his cane at them at the end as a threat. All of them had nodded, they did understand it, it gave a lot of meaning. Ace avoided it like the plague, not wanting to face it, trying to avoid it. Reading the note that he was clean, might and hopefully do some good.

When House returned an hour later, he said not to bring it up with Ace, he would need to handle it himself. Ace wasn't seen anymore the next day, but according to House, he hadn't read the letter, but did at least eat. Marco kept telling himself Ace just needed time.

-x-

Marco sat in his room, the room he and his lovers shared. He was the only one present right now, since Thatch was doing something in the kitchen as normal and Ace still haven't left his room. Marco was occupied in some paper work, having had a hard time doing them because of everything happening. Pops had understood and had some of the others help him and Thatch, understanding they were worried about Ace and couldn't always concentrate. As Marco was writing something down, a knock was at his door. Marco gave a sigh, hoping it wasn't anyone with more paperwork. He knew it wasn't Thatch, he would just walk in, not knocking. It might be Izou or Haruta, the knock wasn't strong.

Marco didn't turn away from the paperwork as he gave a ¨Come in.¨ Marco was having his back to the door and didn't see who it were when the door opened, but he could hear it open. ¨Marco..?¨ Marco felt his heart do a jump at the soft and unsure voice and turned around slowly.

When he saw the door, he saw Ace, standing in the doorway, fidgeting.

Marco felt really relieved to see Ace and was surprised to see Ace there. He hadn't wanted to be around him or Thatch the last days. Marco offered a smile, trying to look as relaxed as he could, which was easy, since seeing Ace out of his room made him relaxed. ¨Ace. Did you need anything, yoi?¨ Ace looked uncomfortable as he gave him tentative looks. ¨I… I'm sorry for avoiding you… I just feel...¨ Ace trailed off, looking more unsure. Marco gave a soft look, shaking his head. ¨It's fine. I get it.¨ Ace gave a small nod. Marco believed Ace would leave, but he didn't. Ace seemed to be having issues with something and was fiddling with the hem on his shirt. Marco couldn't stop himself from standing up and taking a short step closer to the turmoiled kid.

When Ace saw him looking at him in concern and having stood up, being closer. Began to open and close his mouth, trying to say something. ¨I-, I'm…¨ Marco took a step closer again and felt glad when Ace didn't go further back. Marco used a hand to carefully touch Ace's cheek to bring some comfort, glad when Ace let him, not turning away. ¨What is it? You can tell me, Ace.¨

Ace had nodded and taken a deep breath, ¨I'm clean.¨

Marco felt himself smile nodding as he dared to hug Ace, feeling his worry lessen when Ace leaned into him. This also made him realize Ace had been avoiding him and Thatch because he thought he might not be. Marco shook his head as he put it over Aces, carefully holding him, reassuring Ace it was fine. ¨Even if you weren't, we wouldn't have cared. We would have still loved you.¨ Marco felt Ace starting to shake at that and thought he might have pushed too far. But when he felt Ace start to clutching his shirt and felt some wetness on it, he understood Ace was crying.

Marco realized it was something Ace was sure he would never say and was terrified to be left alone. He had always been afraid of that. Marco used a hand to carefully close the door, not wanting anyone to eavesdrop, before slowly walking back to the bed and sitting down, bringing Ace to sit on his lap, still clutching his shirt as he cried, now also starting to let out some sobs. Marco carefully held around Ace, stroking his back really carefully as he comforted Ace. Ace could run away if he wanted, either by telling him or using his flames to escape. As Marco continued to comfort Ace, the kid started to choke out some words. ¨I-, I'm sor-, Sorry I didn't-, didn't tell. I-, I-, was sc-, scared.¨

Marco had shaken his head, making Aces head be underneath his chin. Ace had always liked that before when he was scared or troubled. ¨You never have to be scared of Thatch and I. We will love you, no matter what.¨ Ace had clutched on his shirt tighter and let out more sobs, sounding this had really been bothering the kid and he really did believe he and Thatch wouldn't like him anymore, which was as far away from the truth as possible. Marco continued to comfort Ace, slowly rocking a tiny bit as he stroked Aces back. Ace really needed this, to understand they wouldn't leave him.

After some time, Marco saw the door open and Thatch came in. The chef froze when he saw Ace was there and crying in Marcos arms, but had a look of relief after a second, glad to see Ace out and that he had come to them, to Marco.

Thatch had carefully walked over to the bed and sat down next to Marco and used a hand to stroke Aces arm, silently saying he was here too. When Ace felt it, he had leaned back a bit and looked at Thatch, tears still streaming down his face, giving small sobs. Marco could see Ace was trying to gather himself for a second and speak, and Marco hoped it was the good news, which they did know, but Ace needed to say them. It took Ace a some seconds, but both Marco and Thatch waited patiently. After Ace had managed to stammer it out, that he was clean, Thatch had leaned his head against Aces, saying it was good, but it didn't matter if he was clean or not, they would get through it.

After that, Ace had leaned on Marcos shoulder and continued to cry everything out, everything he had kept inside the last days. Marco had a both his hands on Ace's back and Thatch had one on Ace's back and one on top of Marcos, head leaned against Marcos shoulder and Aces head. Everything would be fine eventually.

-x-

After Ace had read the letter and broken down with Marco and Thatch, relieving a lot of the emotions he had been keeping inside himself. Ace had improved greatly.

He still wasn't intimate with Marco or Thatch, maybe giving a very short kiss or two, but nothing more. But neither Thatch or Marco was pushing Ace, he would use the time he needed. After accepting it had happened, Ace had agreed to do a complete checkup with Bay, checking absolutely everything and everywhere. Bay had said he was fine, but she could see past trauma and that it would take him time, maybe a long time, before he could go back to completely normal as he had been before it had happened, especially when it came to their relationship. Marco and Thatch had understood it and had told Ace he could use all the time he needed, they were in no rush.

Ace had usually slept with in the same bed with Marco and Thatch and they had found out ace had a lot of nightmares. Ace often woke up in sweat and was panicking. Marco and Thatch always managed to calm him down, but sometimes it took longer that other times. Ace was still a lot around Pops, him being the other one Ace really was comfortable with and wanted to be around. They had spoken a lot together, even having private conversations in Pops room. Marco and Thatch never asked about it, letting Ace have have the peace and private time to go to him and speak with him.

They had asked Ace to tell them about what had happened at the boat when he was kidnapped, but he never said much, only small bits and pieces, never touching the subject Ace really needed to speak about.

One morning when they had been eating in the galley, Haruta had asked Ace how he knew House. The man was still around, causing mild havoc with his comments now and then, but kept his main attention on Ace when he was out. House, also hearing the question, had given a snort as he answered, not giving Ace a chance to answer himself. ¨The Dimwit managed to run into me years ago. I remember yelling at him and reprimanded him. What surprised me was that he yelled back, something none do.¨ House gave Ace an amused look. ¨He amused me, so I continued to follow and reprimand him.¨ Everyone had stared at them in shock. The only knew each other because of amusement. They had looked at Ace for confirmation, and he had nodded. That had made everyone laugh and everything had lightened up.

Ace was doing a lot better and everyone was glad. He still wasn't as carefree as he had been, sometimes still wearing a shirt when he had a bad day. Even though it did hide the mark, they let him wear it for the time he needed, knowing it would come off when Ace was better. Everyone also now understand why Ace was mostly around House and Pops before, they were the only ones to not walk on eggshells around Ace. Pops was more careful, but still acted like himself. But House didn't change at all, continuing to act like he would have if Ace was completely fine. It was the normalcy House had spoken about before.

As Ace was continuing to get better, House decided to leave, saying some other idiotic stupid dimwit needed him, since they couldn't do their easy work. When Marco had asked what that work was, House had said it was some patient that had aggressive outbursts, violence and other sudden changes in his normal attitude. That did prove Bays theory that he was a doctor. Before anyone could say anything, Ace spoke up. ¨He is angry, aggressive and abusive? Did they check his leg?¨ Ace had said it with a smile, looking at House. Everyone had stared at Ace and House, not sure how to react. It was obviously a joke, seeing as House was that and had a cane because of his leg. But none had any idea how Ace would react to them laughing.

Before any of them could think, they were startled out of their thoughts by House giving a really sarcastic and loud laugh. ¨Did you get it?¨ He had asked, looking at them. ¨Because I am all that and my leg hurts. Dimwit.¨ Ace had given a small laugh himself, something they now realized Ace hadn't done yet. What amazed them was how normal it seemed and they did believe they usually spoke like that together. Maybe that was how they had been together when they were alone, the normalcy Ace had with the man, reprimanding each other, which sounded weird to them.

When House did leave, Ace had given him a hug, something they saw clearly shocking him. House hadn't hugged back, but Ace did seem to expect it. For some reason, it seemed like it meant a lot like to Ace and House. After the short hug, House had left, giving a reprimand as usual, making Ace smile.

After he had left, Ace did still continue to improve. He still sometimes flinch when some loud noise was heard or when someone touched him unexpectedly, but Ace always quickly gathered himself and got back to normal. The sweater was becoming a rarer and rarer occurrence, but it still happened, especially after a nightmare, sometimes using a shirt instead. Ace was starting to become more clingy to Marco and Thatch, especially when they were in their room alone, but usually never went far away from them or Pops, still unsure of being away from them. Everyone had understood it and given Ace his space, but also trying to make him more comfortable around them.

Ace had also started to speak more about what had happened, telling more of what they told him when he was captured. It had taken time and Ace took a lot of breaks as he sometimes broke down. But Thatch and Marco was patient and waited for him to tell them so he could get it off his chest. After Ace had said anything and was done, both reminded Ace he was safe with them and that everyone loved him and that everyone at that ship was dead, giving some reassurance.

And the things they had told Ace was heart wrenching. Telling him how he never was loved, never was going to be saved and how he was dirty and used now. Ace also telling he had stated to believe it, started to hate himself because of it. They used a lot of time to help Ace get it off his chest and kept reminding him none of it was true, that they would never leave him, never hate him.

It was still a long way to go, but Ace was slowly getting better.

-x-This is the smut scene-x-

Marco sat on his bed, Ace on his lap as he was leaning on him. Ace had had a bad day and wanted to be close to Marco and Thatch, both was okay with it and had stayed in their room for most of the day. As Ace had his head leaned against Marco's shoulder, and his hands slowly holding around his thin frame, giving some comfort, Marco leaned his head down and gave him a kiss on the forehead. When he did, he heard Ace make some small movement, giving a noise of satisfaction. Marco gave a small chuckle as he did it again, making Ace turn his body and looked at Marco for a second, before connecting their lips. Marco deepened their kiss, tongues moving out to taste each other. Marco loved it when Ace wanted to intimate like this with him or Thatch, showing he was getting better.

As Marco moved his hands on Aces back, Ace did a small arch as a moan was muffled by Marcos mouth on his. As Ace didn't oppose to it, Marco did it again, getting a bigger arch and a louder moan, one that also got Thatchs attention. When Marco saw Thatch looking at them, having lust filled eyes, Marco tried it again, getting another moan and arch from Ace.

They had never gotten farther than this, Ace always stopping them or seeming to uncomfortable with everything. But now he was responding beautifully, seeming to enjoy himself.

They had never done anything more than heavy kissing, but Ace did seem he wanted more as he continued to kiss Marco, breath starting to hitch when Marco pushed his hands up into the shirt Ace was wearing, dragging them along his sides. Thatch, seeing Ace enjoying himself, made his way over and also straddled Marcos legs, sitting behind Ace, hands carefully joining Marcos up his shirt, feeling his chest and abdomen. Ace did a really big arch at that, neck stretching as he gave a moan. Thatch carefully tried to kiss his neck, when Ace did a small flinch, Thatch quickly stopped and moved to the shoulder instead, knowing Ace was okay with that. It was still a lot they had to try out, and they needed to do it carefully.

When Ace moved on top of Marco, Marco felt the hardening member moving on his thigh. They had never gotten this far before and Ace didn't seem to want to stop, at least not yet. Marco shared a look with Thatch, when the chef gave a nod and continued to caress Aces abdomen and sides, kissing the shoulder carefully, Marco moved a hand to Aces pants, slowly cupping the growing erection. Aces breath hitched for a second, body tensing, giving a small whimper. Thatch gave a reassuring sound, hands carefully moving caringly. ¨It's fine, it's only us. We can stop.¨ Marco didn't move his hand that was on Aces pants, wanting to hear or see Aces answer. Ace turned his head to look at Thatch, before looking at him.

Ace took a breath, ¨I-, I want to continue.¨ Marco gave a nod, giving a small kiss to Ace. ¨Tell us if we should stop.¨

Ace had given a nod and Marco had carefully move his hands, opening Aces pants. When Marcos hand touched the member, no longer being a top of the clothing, but skin to skin, Ace tensed again. Thatch had gotten his attention again, saying it was them, Ace was safe. Ace had relaxed and turned his head, connecting his and Thatchs lips. Marco, seeing and feeling Ace relax, slowly continued and brought the member out, slowly grasping it as he moved his hand. When Ace arched, tensed and gave a mixture of a moan and whimper, Marco stopped moving his hand as Thatch responded with small kitten licks to Aces lips, giving words of comfort. When Ace relaxed again, giving a look to Marco, Marco carefully moved his hand, stroking up and down the member, watching Aces reaction. Ace arched and moan, tensing a tiny bit, but nowhere close to what he had.

As Marco started to move his hand more, stroking Aces member, Thatch continued to stroke his hands up and down Aces torso under the shirt. They didn't need to take it off, it was a comfort for Ace to have it on.

When Thatchs hand went over a nipple, Ace arched, breath hitching. Aces hands moved, one grasping onto Marcos unoccupied one, the other coming to hold on Thatchs shoulder. Marco gave a reassuring squeeze to the hand, as Thatch gave a few kisses to the arm that was now stretched next to him. When Ace relaxed again, giving a moan and an arch a Thatchs hand went over a nipple again, Marco started moving the hand faster, stroking Ace at a faster speed. Aces body started to respond more to the touches, body moving and arching, moaning out loud at times. Both Marco and Thatch threaded carefully, wanting to make this perfect for Ace. Every time he tensed or whimpered, Thatch would whisper sweet nothing as he gave small kisses to Ace, Marco squeezing his hand reassuringly. Ace always calmed down and they made a mental note of every small reaction.

When Ace's body started to arch more, giving small thrusts into Marcos hand, moans growing. Both knew Ace was closing in on his finish. Thatchs hands moved to his sides, knowing he was extra sensitive there, locking lips again. Ace gave a loud moan and arch as he came, spilling into Marcos hand.

As Aces body relaxed from his orgasm, he leaned back on Thatch tiredly. It was no surprise Ace was tired from that. It was normally tiring, but it was especially emotional draining for Ace. Every new thing they did was and this was a big step. As Ace leaned panting on Thatchs chest, the chef carefully caressing his side on top of the shirt as he gave Ace words of reassurance, Marco cleaned Ace up quickly, using a cloth.

When Marco looked up at Ace, he saw he had some tears falling down his cheeks.

Marco quickly and carefully used a hand to wipe some of it away, leaning his head at Aces forehead. Ace took some hitching breaths, before calming down, the tears stopping. This was the first orgasm Ace had had since he was there, it was normal for him to have a reaction to it. When Ace had calmed down, he looked at Marco and Thatch, seeing them still clothed and watching him carefully. Ace took a breath, ¨What about you?¨ Both shook their heads, Thatch going to give a quick kiss to Ace. ¨This was about you. We are fine.¨ Marco could see Ace was on his way to speak, but Marco silenced him by moving his thumb on his cheek. ¨We can do it later, yoi. This time was about you and only you.¨

Ace gave a nod, leaning his head on Marcos shoulder, still panting a bit. When Aces breaths evened out, Marco and Thatch stayed the way they were, even after Ace had fallen asleep.

They carefully laid Ace down after some time, laying him carefully in the bed, Marco and Thatch on each side, a hand draped over their smaller lover. It was perfect to know Ace was getting better, Ace was getting over this. They could make it over this obstacle, they were strong together.

And that was the chapter, hope you enjoyed

And again, this was a weird idea I have had in my head for a while and both wanted and needed to write it. I know everyone might be ooc and everything, but I hope it was okay

I do hope you enjoyed, I do appreciate feedback, so if you have the time, please tell me what you liked or didn't like. I know the House character, or any OC might be annoying, not everyone like them. But I had no other idea how to do this. I hope it turned out good, or acceptable at least.