[It's not -- the worst reaction ever. Luffy isn't immediately grossed out or offended. He doesn't Gum Gum Something Koby right off the ship. He sounds almost -- thoughtful. Traitorously, Koby's chest gives a hopeful little flutter, which he immediately stamps down. Luffy is -- special. There's something almost magical about him. Koby is still just a cadet, and not a very good one. He's not going to fool himself that Luffy would ever want him -- like that.

But then: that question. Koby almost trips over his own feet, choking out a shaky laugh far too late to seem even remotely unbothered.] That's -- I'm -- I-I told you, ignore what. What I'm thinking. I'm just happy to spend time with you, really.

[His voice is strained, his casual smile clearly fake.] I'm sure plenty of people have thoughts like that about the highest bounty in the East Blue. You're very, um. Popular.