[Smoker's flat-out gobsmacked that Portgas asked. That he didn't know. That he couldn't tell. Well, guess getting the words forced out of him too was important if Ace couldn't tell this much!]

[Words.]

[Damn...]

[Did he like it?]

[Such an understatement.]

[Words....]

[Smoker buys himself more time to think with a long hard kiss.]

Portgas...

There are about a hundred thousand reasons I couldn't let anyone get to you before I did. [Holds Ace's face in both hands. Treasuring him. Cherishing.] The worst one, the one I am an absolute asshole for, is because I wanted to set the bar so high for you, no one else could ever compare, so even if shit happens, it won't matter, you'll still be thinking of me. [Gently headbutts Ace with a nudge, because Smoker is not dumb enough to crack his skull on a D's.] That's because I'm always thinking of you. And you laid claim all over any part of me you wanted, and even parts you didn't want, ages ago.

[Kisses.] This you, also broke a lot of barriers to do a bunch of firsts, things I said I didn't want, thought I didn't, but you made me want them, just like I want you.

[Snorts, and gives a headshake.] You were better than good, idiot. There is no follow-up act. It's just you.

I told you.

[Rests their foreheads together, just enjoying the close intimacy for a moment.] You set my world on fire. But I wouldn't be here if I didn't want that.

[Kisses Ace's cheek and snorts.] Do you really think I'm even capable of holding my tongue if I didn't like something?

[Gently smooshes Ace's cheeks between two fists.] Yes, Ace. You're the best. And I'd hate you more for it if I wasn't too busy enjoying it.

Reason... four, why I couldn't let anyone else touch you. Because they couldn't bring out your best. Not that I can either. But better than them.