"Sorry for what?" The words came out distantly as if someone else was speaking. He smiled and pushed the cold back where it belonged and slipped his arms around Marco, letting his words flow past. Not really paying attention. Something about Shanks. Well, he'd never really gotten along with Shanks, but Thatch had always thought he was a pretty decent guy all told. He chuckled at Marco's words, though the sound grated in his throat.

"Here? I'd prefer home, thank you. Where I belong. The endless blue sea and Pops' flag flying high." More than anything, he wanted to see that again. To smell the sea air. Hear the laughter and chatter of nakama. Sit beside Pops and drink with him, watching Marco perched proudly on his shoulder.

"One day, eh? We'll all go home together."