Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Canon, more or less. Episode order based on Miraculous Wiki, using production codes as episode order. Exception being Origins, of course. And a few tweaks based on dates used in the episode. Each season will be one year. 

Season 1 is the final year of collège (Age 13-14)

Season 2 is the first year of lycée (Age 14-15)

Season 3 is the second year of lycée (Age 15-16)

Due to Akumas, the Mayor decides to keep all classes the same and expand Françoise Dupont (and other schools) into a combined college and general lycee school. There are still Vocational and Technological Lycees, but one would have to, at least currently, cut a lot of red tape to transfer.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday have 6 classes, 50 min each, ten min between classes. Lunch is 11:30-1:30

Homeroom (First 15 min)/Humanities (AKA Moral & Civic Education), Literature & Philosophy (HLP): Ms. Bustier

Mathematics: Paul Allard

Physics (Mon & Thurs) & Chemistry (Tues & Fri): Ms Mendeleiev

Life & Earth Sciences (SVT): Louise Boucher

History-Geography, Geopolitics & Political Science (HGGSP): Armel Matthieu

Economics & Social Sciences: Antoinette D'Amboise

Wednesday is a half day, 3 classes, 50 min each. 

P.E.: Armand D'Argencourt

Art: Fred Haprèle 

Digital Technology & Computer Science: Jean-Pierre Monlataing

There are also Modern Language classes (Optional) in the afternoon at 1:30-2:20. 

Adrien’s schedule:

Chinese classes are on Mondays.

Basketball on Wednesday.

Piano on Tuesday and Thursday.

Fencing lessons are always on Fridays.

Season 1 order goes:

Origins (1&2)

Stormy Weather

Evillustrator

Lady Wifi

Princess Fragrance

Dark Cupid 

Mr. Pigeon

Pixelator

Coptcat

Bubbler

Simon Says

Rogercop

Gamer

Animan

Darkblade

Pharaoh

Timbreaker

Horrificator

Puppeteer 

Mime

Guitar Villain

Reflekta

Antibug

Kung Food (takes place during summer break)

Volpina (Lila enters the last few months of the first year)

Season 2 order:

Collector (Right after Volpina, Gabriel threatens to refuse to allow Adrien to finish collège or attend public Lycee)

Prime Queen (Summer break)

Befana (Some point Late July, early August)

Glaciator (Summer Break/ start of school)

Despair Bear (Back to school Dance.)

Troublemaker

Gigantitan

Riposte

Frightningale

Gorizilla

Robostus

Sapotis

Dark Owl

Syren

Zombizou

Captain Hardrock

Frozer

Style Queen

Queen Wasp

Reverser

Anansi

Malediktator

Sandboy

Catalyst

Mayura

Season 3 Order

Chameleon

Animaestro

Bakerix

Backwarder

Reflekdoll

Weredad (Chat starts twice weekly visits to his Purrincess afterwards)

Silencer

Oni-Chan

Miraculer

Oblivio

Desperada

Christmaster

Startrain

Kwamibuster (After the battle, Chat ups his visits to 4 times a week. He is still on the fence about LB possibly being Marinette.)

Feast (Afterwards, Fu decides to hand the Miracle Box to Marinette for safe holding. Not renounced yet, but he starts training her.)

Gamer 2.0

Stormy Weather 2

Ikari Gozen

Timetagger

Party Crasher (Cut from Timeline. Does not happen)

Puppeteer 2

Chat Blanc (Takes place May 2nd, St. Athanasius Day. Going based on the character’s clothes. January in Paris is cold.)

Felix

Ladybug (This story rewrites)

Chapter Text

Adrien sits at his desk, looking at his multi-screen computer. He has the Ladyblog up on one, pictures of Marinette up on another, and a third has a list in a document. “Marinette really seemed to like the charm bracelet I gave her. What color rose do you think I should give her? Light pink for sweetness and admiration. White for purity and innocence. No, white can be a mourning color in Chinese culture. ” He thinks for a moment. “Yellow for friendship could work. If I find one with red tips, it’ll indicate friendship deepening into something more. But then dark pink is gratitude, appreciation, and desire.” He spins in his chair. “But orange would fit too. Enthusiasm, desire, passion, energy, and attraction. What do you think, Plagg?”

Plagg looks on, incredulous. “A color for Pigtails? I think she’d like just about anything you give her.”

The blond playfully rolls his eyes. “Why do you call her that? You can say her name.” He pauses, examining his Kwami closely. “You can say her name, right? Or is there a reason you can’t?”

Said Kwami flits around almost nervously. “Come on, kid. We’ve been over this. I just don’t like using names.” Under his breath, “Of all the times to grow a brain. Sugarcube is gonna kill me.” As if having an ah-ha moment, he speaks louder, with confidence. “Hey, I don’t even use Tikk’s name fully. I always call her Sugarcube, or a shortened version of her name.”

The holder crosses his arms over his chest, not fully buying what Plagg is selling. “Sure.”

Plagg has another ah-ha moment. “I have said her name before, when you thought she was Ladybug after your science teacher caught us. Which we, er, you determined that she is not.”

The blond just shakes his head. “Plagg. I know Ladybug is a student at Françoise Dupont, just like me, which means I probably know Ladybug. Kwamibuster proved that. Plus, there was the textbook Alya saw her drop.” Giving his Kwami a knowing smirk, “Besides, you seem rather adamant that I drop the idea of my Princess being my Lady. They do have a lot in common, more than just their looks. The only way I will drop it is if you say, Marinette is Ladybug.” Looking between the three screens, “Ladybug trusted Marinette with multiple Miraculous, including mine, and I believe, hers. I never saw any other heroes. So that begs the question, what Miraculous did M’Lady use when she chose Marinette, or when Multimouse freed the Kwamis?” Deep in thought, “I tried to trick her to cover my identity, so it would make sense if she tried to trick me as well. Not to mention, it could explain Oblivio, and why I get the same feeling when with them.”  Adrien sighs before picking up his phone and starts looking through his photos, some of which are of Marinette, others of Ladybug, taken with his baton while he was transformed. Swiping through, he accidentally deletes one. While trying to restore the photo, he finds a video compilation in his recycle bin/trash. “Hey, Plagg. Do you remember me getting a video recently?”

Plagg floats over his shoulder, checking out what his holder is talking about. “No. But your cousin did mess with your phone when he visited.”

Adrien turns to face his Kwami. “Do you think Felix deleted it before I could watch it?”

Plagg shrugs the best he can. “I wouldn’t put it past him. He did go through your stuff and send your friends a video that got them Akumatized.”

The blond shakes his head to clear his mind before restoring the video. He watches each friend’s clip in turn, till it gets to Marinette’s.

Her nervous face shows up on the screen. Her expression shifts to one of solace and adoration. “Adrien… I love you.” She takes a deep breath. “I’ll always be there if you need me.” She drops the screen. In panic, “Ah! What was I thinking? Oh, this is the worst day I could choose to tell him. We gotta start over.” The screen shows her picking up the tablet. A second, higher-pitched voice can be heard. “There’ll never be a right day to tell him.” The video ends.

Plagg mutters under his breath, “Ah, shit,” As Adrien looks like a kid who just got everything he wanted for Christmas. He immediately opens Marinette’s text/chat log. “The girl that I’ve been trying to deny my crush on is the same girl I’ve been actively pursuing.” He gives his trademark Chat Noir grin. “I love one girl, not two. I fell in love with her twice.” Pause. “Or did I just fall for both sides of her at once, without knowing?” His face lights up again, complete with a dopey grin. “I… I think she actually likes me.” He spins in his chair again in happiness.

To: Purrincess—So, I was cleaning my phone and found a video from the day Felix visited

To: Purrincess— Do you mean what you said?

On the other side of the phone, Marinette receives his text. After reading it, she fumbles and almost drops her phone. Tikki catches it. The bluenette panics. “Oh! Adrien found the video I made for him. He watched it and wants to know if I mean it.” She looks at her Kwami earnestly. “What do I say? I don’t want to ruin our friendship. What if he thinks I’m a creep? Then he gets his father to blacklist me. Then I’ll never be a designer, and I’ll have to live a lonely life running the bakery for my parents. But when I die, I’ll have no one to pass it on to, and my parents' legacy will die with me.” 

Tikki flies into her holder’s face and screams. “Marinette!” The Kwami takes a deep breath, glad to see her holder snap out of her spiral. “Just tell him the truth. He deserves to know.” Pause. Tikki smiles. “Who knows, this could be the day he returns your feelings.”

Marinette smiles at Tikki. “You’re right.” She looks down and sees three new messages from Adrien. 

From: Adrien <3 — Let me back up a moment. I hope I didn’t start-le you. 

From: Adrien <3 —  Let's take a paws for a moment.  This isn’t a total cat-astrophe. Hope you're not spiraling too badly. Your message made my day. 

The last one is a sad kitten gif. As Marinette reads them, she cracks a smile and laughs. “Who knew Adrien was such a dork? He could give Chat a run for his money in the pun department.”

Tikki shakes her head, face palms, and mutters, “If you only knew.”

Marinette replies. Adrien is ecstatic.

From: Purrincess — I'm just feline fine.

From: Purrincess — Anything is paws-ible. Yes, I meant what I said. But I don’t want to pressure you into feeling any way. I am happy being just your friend. I know there is a girl you like. 

From Purrincess — Maybe I can be your wingman, er, wingwoman. Seeing you happy makes me happy.

Adrien spins around in his chair, holding his phone up above his head with both hands. “She punned. And she likes me.” A knock on the door interrupts him.

From behind the door, Nathalie informs him of his schedule for the next few days. “Adrien. It’s time for dinner. Don’t forget, you have a piano concert for your father. And tomorrow is fencing. Photoshoots on Saturday morning with homework in the afternoon, but Sunday is free.” Adrien gives her a dry thanks and asks to have dinner in his room. He spends the rest of his night studying with Marinette on a video call.

The following day (Thursday)

Lila tries to get close to Adrien, nearly climbing into his lap, with her death grip on his arm and claws for nails digging deep into his skin. ‘That’s gonna leave a mark.’ He thinks. Plagg nearly phases through his shirt to bite Lila. The liar is saved when Marinette ambles into the classroom. No one sees Lila push her bag in front of the bluenette as she walks past. The bag causes Marinette to trip and stumble. She nearly falls onto the platform steps leading up to the back desks. Using his cat-like reflexes and strength, Adrien twists out of Lila’s grip, her claws leaving scratches, and catches Marinette before she can hit the floor, pulling her close to his chest. 

Her cheeks tinge pink as she stutters. “Yank thou… I mean, thank you, Adrien.” Her blush deepens as she lets out a soft giggle. “I guess Eiffel for you.”

This time, Adrien blushes as he releases Marinette. “I… I don’t mind cat-ching you.” No one hears Plagg groan. Or sees Tikki roll her eyes and face palm. The blond model takes Marinette’s hand. “You've cat to be kitten me, right meow. Would you mind giving me a pinch? You’re so cute in my arms, I must be dreaming.” He glances at her outfit. Black Mary Janes with knee-high black socks that have triangle cat ears on top of a cat face. Her skirt is black with green plaid lines, not unlike Kagami’s skirt. The shirt is Chat Noir green and has a black cat with a ladybug on its nose printed on the front. The back zipper is a miniature version of his baton.

Marinette bops his nose and giggles. She will freak out about this later.

Nino, who is sitting next to Alya, in Marinette’s seat, mutters. “Damn, smooth, Mec.”

Alya clamps onto her boyfriend’s arm, whispering in awe. “OMG. I must be dreaming.” The rest of the class watches, too shocked to say or do anything, minus Lila, who is seething, and Chloe, who feigns indifference.

Ms. Bustier enters the classroom as the bell rings, bringing everyone out of their daze. “Please take your seats.” Marinette looks at her seat, while Adrien waits to help her sit down.

Lila looks at the teacher. “Ms. Bustier, my tinnitus and arthritis are acting up. Do you think I could sit next to Adrien and have him help me with notes?”

Before the teacher can open her mouth to respond, Adrien refuses. “Ms. Bustier. Last night, Marinette and I stayed up late on a video call, studying for today’s mock exam, since I missed classes due to photoshoots. We promised to help each other stay awake in class.” He looks at the liar with feigned apology. “I’m sorry, Lila. But a promise is a promise. I was the one to keep Marinette up late, so it’s my responsibility to help keep her awake during class. Maybe someone else can help you?” Chloe snickers. Half the class offers to help. Ms. Bustier ends up sitting Lila next to Nathaniel. Adrien helps Marinette into Nino’s seat, next to him. The bluenette mouths ‘Thank you’ to him. This causes the blond to grin happily.  

Adrien sticks close to Marinette for the next two classes before lunch. Alya snags the bluenette for lunch break, as Adrien has to return to the mansion for lunch. Once in the lunch room, the ombre girl lets out a fan-girl squeal. “OMG! Gurl. I need the deets. What happened between you and Sunshine Boy?”

Marinette blushes shyly. “Well, Adrien found the video messages Felix deleted… And we started texting back and forth.” She pauses, thinking about the exchange. “We then Face-Timed and studied. I think he was flirting with me.”

Alya hugs her bestie. “Congrats, Gurl.” Neither girl noticed the scowling sausage-haired girl in the corner.

Once back from lunch break, Adrien attaches himself to Marinette again. At the end of their economics class, Ms. Bustier enters the room. “I apologize, Mrs. D'Amboise, but I need to speak to your, our class.” The older teacher nods, gathers her belongings, and excuses herself. Since it’s the last class of the day, and there are only ten minutes left, she leaves the class to her fellow teacher. Ms. Butier addresses the class. “Marinette, I am afraid I need to see your bag. At lunch, I received an anonymous message that said you stole the mock exam answer sheet. And you did get a near-perfect score.”

Marinette looks offended. “Ms. Bustier. I would never cheat. It’s only a mock exam. There’s no point. It’s not like it’s part of my grade.” She looks at the blond beside her. “Besides, I stayed up late studying with Adrien for it.” She hands her bag to the teacher anyway.

 After a moment, Ms. Bustier pulls out the answer sheet. She sighs. “It looks like the tip was right.”

Lila immediately pipes up with a fake show of concern. “This is so terribly unlike you, Marinette. You’re usually so well-behaved. At least when you make it to class.”

Marinette glares at the liar. “I bet it was you who put the paper in my bag.”

Lila gasps in fake disbelief. She appears to nearly break down, with false sobs. “I’m defending you, Marinette. How can you accuse me of that?”

The teacher shakes her head in dismay. “Marinette, you can’t go accusing people without proof.”

Marinette openly glares at her teacher. “I’m sorry, but you shouldn’t have called me out in front of the class. This is something that should have been handled privately. And I am tired of your hypocrisy. You let Chloe get away with everything, yet in the same breath, you tell me I have to be the bigger person, saying that I have to set the example. You let Lila interrupt class with her outlandish stories. Does she even have doctor notes for her many ailments? Kim has one for his ADHD. I have one for my anxiety. Yet you never seem to take that into account.”

Ms. Bustier slams her hand on the desk. “That’s it! Marinette, Lila. Both of you are to go to the principal’s office right now.” She points to the door. Lila hides her smirk as she complies, while Marinette grumbles as she gathers her things.

Outside in the hall, Lila faces the bluenette. “I swore I’d make your life unbearable, Marinette. Let’s see how you get out of this one.”

Marinette rolls her eyes, exasperated. “I’m not falling for your trap, Lie-la.”

The brunette grins darkly. “Too late. You already have.” She walks down the stairs, lies on the floor, and fakes an injury, screaming in false pain. “OUCH! My leg!”

At this point, the school bell rings. Seeing the commotion, Mr. Damocles questions loudly. “What is going on? What happened?”

Lila turns on her crocodile tears. “Marinette pushed me down the stairs.” 

Indignantly, Marinette retorts and defends herself. “I did not.” The principal orders both girls into his office. He calls both girls’ parents and waits for their arrival. Tom and Sabine arrive fifteen minutes later. Lila’s mother seems to be out of contact.

Ms Bustier explains what happened with the answer sheet. Marinette defends herself against both accounts. “It wasn’t me. I didn’t do anything.”

Lila turns on the waterworks again. “I don’t know why Marinette doesn’t like me. I’ve really tried to be her friend, but she keeps calling me a liar, getting the others to gang up against me, and now, she’s pushing me down the stairs.” She goes into another bout of false sadness and crocodile tears.

Marinette rolls her eyes. “Those are lies!” She mutters under her breath. “The first two describe what you do.” Lila lets out a few false whimpers.

Face full of concern, Mr Damocles encourages the brunette to speak up. “Go on, Lila. You seem to have more to say.”

Her sly smile is hidden in her hands as she continues her act. “She… She even took… took the necklace my grandmother left me.”

Marinette’s fists are clenched at her sides. “That’s not true. I didn’t steal anything.”

Tom stands, looking thoroughly affronted. “My daughter wouldn’t steal. Especially clothing or accessories. She makes everything she wears.”

Remaining calm, Sabine tries to rein in everyone’s emotions. “Where are the young lady’s parents? We left our family business to attend this meeting. Why should we believe any of this? You are accusing my daughter without proof. Yet she has been bullied in this very school for years, and the bully has yet to be disciplined.”

Lila sniffs, peeking through her fingers. “I… I have proof. Check her locker.”

All five make their way to the lockers just as the classes let out. Ms. Bustier’s homeroom class stands by to watch. The principal has Marinette open her locker, and out falls a fox tail pendant. Lila gasps, rather loudly. “My grandmother’s pendant!” Other gasps can be heard.

Marinette looks obviously shocked. “I swear, I have no idea how that got in there. She’s making this whole thing up. It wasn’t me. I bet she put it in my locker herself.”  With panic-filled eyes, she scans the crowd for help or support. Blue eyes mist over, tears ready to fall as they meet emerald green ones. “A… Adrien? You know she lies. Right?” Her eyes scan the crowd again. No one meets her gaze, looking away. “You… you don’t think… think that I… I would do something like… like this?”

Taking a deep breath to gather courage, Adrien speaks up. “Mr. Damocles. I don’t think…”

He is cut off by the owlish man, “Marinette Dupain-Cheng. You are hereby expelled from this school!”

Sabine’s spine straightens. “Wait one damn minute! You haven’t even investigated properly. Don’t make me call the authorities.”

Mr. Damocles sputters, clearly intimidated by the small Chinese woman. “Fine. Three-week suspension while we investigate. She may come back for the last week of this school year. And depending on the investigation, we will determine if she returns next year.”

Before Sabine can speak any more, a swarm of red Akumas invades. Many attach to Marinette, her parents, and several others. Others resist. The color drains from Adrien’s face at the thought of having to fight Marinette, who he is certain is his Lady. As her hands move to her earrings, his hand moves to snatch her Akumatized item, her purse. Chloe defends Sabrina, while Alya tries to fight the scarlet butterflies away. Everyone thanks the stars when Akumas fade to white and fly off.

Blinking back to reality, Sabine sternly admonishes the school faculty. “As of now, I am pulling my daughter from this farce of an educational institute. If I find a hide or hair of this on her school record, I will inform the Ministère de l'Éducation nationale et de la Jeunesse. On top of that, I want the contact information for the parents of the child who accused my daughter. I also want the medical records of said child’s injuries from today and ALL supposed proof of my daughter's wrongdoings. This includes evidence of my daughter allegedly pushing the young lady down the stairs, evidence of my daughter allegedly cheating on a mock test, and evidence of the alleged theft.  This includes written timelines, security footage, fingerprints, and any other relevant paperwork. I also want statements from those close to both students and to compare the student files of my daughter and her accuser.”  With that, she ushers her husband and child out of the school. Looking over her shoulder, “You have one week.”  Tom and Sabine lead their daughter home. Once in the bakery, the couple ushers their daughter up to her room while they get back to work.

In her room, Marinette finally recapitulates the day's events. She screams into her pillow, sitting on her bed. “Tikki. I… I think Adrien was flirting with me. And…” She looks slightly confused and elated. “He punned, cat puns. Ah!” Her face is buried in her pillow again. Eyes peering over the top, she looks at her Kwami.  “God, why does Adrien remind me of Chat?” Lowering the pillow, she breathes in deep to calm down and proceeds to climb off her bed. “Everything was great, until Lila struck. Adrien was by my side most of the day. *Sigh.* But then Lila struck. And did you see those Scarlet Akumas?”

Tikki flits around nervously. “If you had been Akumatized, nothing could have stopped you from having your Miraculous over to Hawk Moth!”

Marinette stands and starts pacing her room. “And there would have been no more Ladybug. End of story.”

Tikki hugs her holder’s cheek in encouragement. “We can't let that happen!”

Tikki’s love and confidence fill Marinette. “Neither Lila nor Hawk Moth will win. I'm gonna prove my innocence! If only Alya could help me.”

The Kwami is a little cautious. “Alya didn't become Akumatized earlier today at school. I'm sure it's because she trusts you. Call her!” She looks a little nervous, yet thoughtful at the same time. “And Adrien’s first reaction was to go for your purse, which held the Akuma.”

Marinette’s face lights up. “You're right! I’ll call Alya. She can defend me, and maybe even get proof that I was framed.” Smiling, the bluenette proceeds to call her ‘bestie.’

Alya answers her phone on the third ring, and the girls get right down to business. “So let's recap, alright. You're accused of stealing the answers to the mock exam. Evidence 1: The paper with the answers was found in your schoolbag. You're also accused of pushing Lila down the stairs. No one witnessed the actual incident, but everyone did see Lila at the bottom of the staircase. You're also accused of stealing Lila's necklace, which was, Evidence 2, found inside your locker. And finally, you have a motive. I know for a fact that you've hated Lila from Day 1 because she hangs around Adrien.

Marinette rolls her eyes and replies sarcastically. “I'm so glad I called you. Thanks for your support. And as for your motive…

Alya cuts her off. “Gurl, you're my best friend. I totally believe you, but the evidence is stacked against you. The good thing is, the world's greatest reporters always seek the truth, so I'm gonna prove your innocence.

Marinette sighs in relief. “Thanks, Al. But as I was saying about motive…”

The ombre girl cuts her off, again. “First off, a culprit always leaves clues. That's a given. And by following these clues, it will lead us…”

This time, Marinette cuts her off. “ ...to Lila!”

Alya is annoyed, and it can be heard in her voice. “No, to the guilty party. If you're so quick to accuse Lila, you might just overlook another potential baddie!”

The bluenatte lets out a laughing cry. “Right.”

Alya senses her ‘friend’s’ distress and attempts to comfort her. “Whoever it was had to have touched your locker when they put the necklace in there. I'm gonna go track down some fingerprints.” 

Sabine calls from behind the closed trap door. “Marinette, can we have a word after dinner?”

Marinette says goodbye to Alay and hangs up her phone before heading down to see her parents. “Coming, Maman.” Tikki hides in her hair.

Downstairs in the Dupain-Cheng dining room, the family is having dinner. After some small talk, Tom breaches the main topic. “Now, Sweetheart, we believe you… But we don’t trust that school any longer.”

Sabine places a hand over her husband’s. “We understand that you may not like this, but… I have spoken to your aunt, the one in London.” She glances over at Tom before looking back at Marinette. “She has agreed that in about two months, you can move in with her.” The older woman holds up a hand to silence her daughter. “We have looked into it. Transferring you to another school here in Paris is impossible. You only have two months before the end of this school year. Next year, you will start school in London.” Pause. “It’s for the best. And it’s only a year.”

Tom picks up the conversation. “Sweetie. Please don’t make this into a big deal. You’re sixteen. We only want what is best for you. For the last two months of this school year, you will have online classes. Granted, you’ll have to go back for the first week after your suspension ends. You can use that time to say goodbye, while we finish your transfer paperwork.” With this said, Marinette runs to her room, holding back her tears.

Once in the safety of her bed, she lets her emotions out, sobbing and crying. All the Kwami fly out to comfort their Guardian. Tikki explains everything, including having to move to London in two months. Kallkie tries to reassure. “If you are worried about being Ladybug, I can teleport you back and forth.”

The young Guardian gives a watery smile. “It’s a bit more complicated. What if I have to leave class? Then there are patrols to think about. I can’t leave Chat alone.” Her eyes widened at the thought. “I have to tell Chat.” Pause “Maybe we can trade Miraculous for the time I’m in London.” She looks downcast, hands rubbing her earrings. “I… I’ll talk to him tonight on patrol.”

Meanwhile, at the Agreste mansion, Adrien isn’t faring as well either. On the bright side, Gabriel is having dinner with his son. However, on the downside, he is issuing orders that contradict his son’s wishes. “Son. You are sixteen. It has come to my attention that the media and fans expect you to be dating. I have decided that it would be good for the Brand if you date Mlle Rossi. We will start slow, ‘couples’ photoshoots twice a week for two weeks. Small media leaks. Then you shall court her for a week or two. From there, we will announce your relationship publicly to the media with a Gala. For your seventeenth birthday, we shall host a party to publicize your engagement. One month after your eighteenth birthday, we shall have the wedding, and you will start shadowing me at the company.”

Adrien slams his fork on the table. “Do I get a say in my own love life? Am I just a tool for you? I detest… No, I despise Lila. She makes me feel uncomfortable, like I am just a prize to be won, a trophy, or a genuine wagyu beef steak. She lies with every breath. Ask my crew, she has left marks on my arm, and if I don’t listen or tell her no, she gets clingy, claws me, and threatens me. I will NOT be in an abusive relationship. It’s bad enough that I have a neglectful, borderline toxic, relationship with you. My dating life is mine to decide.” He pauses as he fidgets with his ring. “Besides, I already have someone I plan to ask out. I was going to ask you permission in a week… I want to test the waters with her first.”

Gabriel stands and walks over to his son. “Who is it? Who has caught your eye?”

Standing to face his father, Adrien lifts his chin in defiance. “Marinette. Marinette Dupain-Cheng. She has won a few of your competitions. She even caught Audrey Bourgeois’ attention, positively.”

Gabriel sneers. “That baker girl? She is below your status and is a bad influence on you. I forbid it.”

Adrien’s face steels. “You can forbid all you want, but the heart wants what the heart wants. Mother fell for you. She was an aristocrat, while you were a mere tailor. At least that is how Aunt Amalie tells it.”

At this, Gariel backhands Adrien, sending the boy flying across the dining room. Do NOT bring up your mother! “As long as you live under MY roof, you follow MY rules. You have one week before I start the media campaign.” He spins on his heels and stalks off to his atelier. Adrien scoffs, wipes the blood from his mouth, and heads to his room.

Once the door shuts, Plagg zips out. The Kwami hands over the burner phone he had been using. “The entire dinner… I mean fight has been recorded and saved.” He is pissed. “Kid, let me Cata him. Please. It’ll save us both a lot of trouble.”

The Cat holder shakes his head and sighs. “No, Plagg. There has to be a better way. I don’t need the authorities investigating me… Yet.” He sits at his computer and loads a page from his history on one screen and a recent email on another. “Fuck.” Plagg lands on his shoulder to see what he is looking at. “Looks like emancipation is gonna be harder than I thought. Fa… Gabriel will never agree. Fighting it in court will take at least a year, so no point there.”

Plagg points at one line. “What about this?”

The Holder looks at his Kwami and raises a single eyebrow. “Marriage? At my age, I would have to get a girl pregnant for us to get married.” He spins in his chair. “Who would want a kid with me… And at our ages? And besides, that could take a while. It’s not like I can knock up a girl on my first try.” An alarm on his phone goes off. “Patrol time.” He stands. “Plagg, Claws Out.”

Chapter Text

The heroes meet at their spot. Ladybug is already there, sitting and facing away. This worries Chat. She is usually right on time or a minute or two late. When he sits, and she faces him, his worry spikes. She has been crying. “M’Lady. What’s wrong?”

Ladybug sniffs. “Chat. I… I don’t know where to begin. Or how. It… It could give away my identity.” She nearly breaks down again. “I… I… My parents are sending me to London in about two months.” It feels as if all the air has left his lungs. Chat pulls her into his lap, cradling her head in the crook of his neck. He carefully rubs circles on her back as she sobs and explains more. “There… There was a problem at my school…. And I got suspended. Al…Almost expelled.” She leans back, waving her hands frantically. “It wasn’t my fault. I… I have this bully. She… She likes to lie and frame me.” Ladybug buries her head in Chat’s chest. Her next sentence is a whisper. If not for Chat’s super hearing, he would miss it. “And she is really good at it.” Chat continues to comfort his Lady, rubbing her back and letting out a soft purr. He recalls reading that a cat’s purr can offer significant mental and physical health benefits, primarily by triggering the release of mood-boosting hormones and reducing stress and anxiety through its calming, low-frequency vibrations, which promote relaxation and well-being, acting almost like a natural, gentle therapy. After several long moments, Ladybug finally looks up at Chat. “I… I was thinking we could maybe… switch Miraculous for a while. I’ll only be in London for one school year. I plan to attend University here in Paris… I know I have Kallkie. And they agreed to let me use their power to get here if there is an Akuma. But… But I don’t know if I’ll always be able to get away… or how long it will take me to get away.”

Chat nods. “That may work. But let me talk to Plagg. I… I am looking to emancipate myself. I… I can’t take my home life anymore.”

Ladybug cups his cheek with one hand. “Oh, Kitty. I am so sorry. Do you want to talk about it?” He shakes his head no. LB crawls out of his lap, stands up, and holds out a hand to help him up. “Let’s get patrol over for tonight. And we can meet tomorrow night.”

Chat grins as he takes his Lady’s hand. After standing up, he brings her hand to his lips and kisses her knuckles. Giving her his best grin, “As you wish. M’Lady.” The two heroes engage in a game of Cat and Bug, chasing and racing each other across Paris.

(Friday)

The following day is torture for Adrien. He has a ‘last-minute’ photoshoot with Lila. Getting there early, he speaks with his crew, asking them to gather evidence of Lila’s harassment and lies. They all agree, rather eagerly. He manages to go to school after lunch. 

Alya attempts to find evidence to ‘defend’ Marinette, but comes up short. The locker had already been wiped clean. Lila had the necklace back, but had left it at home. The answer sheet was missing again. No one in the school saw the fall. Alya did find it odd that the nurse wasn’t informed. Her words unsettled Alya. Lila seemed to have a sprained knee, but that was the extent of her injuries. The nurse was concerned about hand and wrist fractures from trying to break the fall. Others include ankles, legs, hips, shoulders, or even skull fractures. How did Lila brace her fall and only injure one knee? 

After classes on Friday, Alay calls Marinette and gets her voicemail. “Okay, so here's the skinny on my investigation so far. No fingerprints, no evidence. Whoever did this was very thorough. I'm sorry. We'll be in touch.” Adrien, who overhears, sees Lila talking to a bunch of teens from a distance. He goes to confront her when he receives an alert on his phone. On the news,

Nadja can be heard. “This is Nadja Chamack, live from the Arc de Triomphe, where Ladybug is battling against a new supervillain.”

A woman in a peacock gown is seen in the background. “I am Mayura, and I'm about to annihilate Ladybug. Mwahahaha!” 

Adrien runs into Ms. Mendeleiev's classroom. Plagg floats out, facing his holder. “Don't tell me, we have to go and help your lady.”

The blond holder shakes his head, looking at the Kwami. “She and I are on the same team, Plagg. We'll help Marinette, but first… Plagg, Claws Out.” He transforms and makes his way to the battle, exiting through the window.  

On top of the Arc de Triomphe, Chat Noir races up. He tries to look dashing. “Chat Noir to the rescue, M’lady!”

Mayura smiles and whispers. “Pretend to be hurt.” She pretends to stab Ladybug with a feather.

Senti-Bug acts like she is dying, falling to the ground, grasping her midsection. “AAAAAH!”

Not being close enough see what is actually happening, Chat rushes to her aid. In his mind’s eye, his Lady was just stabbed. “ M'lady, no!” He cradles the person he thinks is his injured partner, looking her over. 

Meanwhile, Marinette overhears the news and tries to get away. After three failed attempts, she pulls the bathroom card, doubling over in cramps. “I must have started. Sorry, Papa. You know how this time of the month gets for me?” Reluctantly, Tom allows her to go.

Back at the fight, Chat begins to notice something is wrong. There was no wetness on her suit or glove when it came up to cup his cheek.  “You okay?  There's something wrong, we're supposed to be nearly invulnerable!”

Senti-Bug attempts to comfort him. She gazes deeply into his eyes. “Don't worry about me. Go after Mayura. Ow! Cat Noir, I don't feel so good…” 

Mayura ducks behind a wall. She uses her telepathic bond to order Senti-Bug. “He doesn't suspect a thing. Grab his Miraculous, his ring, before the real Ladybug gets here!”

Chat growls as he looks around, taking everything in. He moves to stand and go after the Peafowl villain. Senti-Bug calls out in alarm. “Chat Noir, don't leave me.”

The cat hero looks at the woman in his arms. His eyes are full of confusion. “What? What's going on?”

Mayura provides the words of Senti-Bug via the telepathic bond. “ I've always gone out of my way to hide my true feelings for you, but I just can't do it anymore.”

The confusion on Chat’s face grows. As does his suspicion. “But I thought you said you love somebody else?”

Senti-Bug sighs in reluctance, looking away, hiding her face from Chat’s view. “ It's... It's over. After all this time, I've realized that you're always here for me, even when I keep rejecting you. Your feelings haven't changed, and mine are growing stronger every day. I can't keep pretending anymore.” She faces him again, eyes full of tears.

The cat hero is torn. The words that he has longed to hear are coming from a face he has longed to hear them from. Senti-Bug hears the metal order. Her hand covers the hand wearing the Cat Miraculous. She lifts up, attempting to kiss Chat while sliding his ring off.  Chat freezes. His expression is one of longing tinged with sadness and hurt. Once he notices what the woman is trying to do, his fist closes, and his head turns away. A single tear slides down his cheek. Suddenly, a yo-yo string wraps around Senti-Bug’s waist and rips her out of Chat’s lap. “Back off, you bitch imposter.” Chat’s head swings towards where the sound of the voice came from. There, standing in all her glory, is a pissed-off Ladybug. 

Senti-Bug cries out. “Chat! Help me. She is the imposter.”

Chat looks her over. “Is she an Akuma, like Copy Cat?”

Senti-Bug stands shakily. “No. I’m the real Ladybug. I am your partner.” She looks over at Chat with tear-filled eyes. “You… You love me. Don’t you? Listen with your heart.” Pointing at the real Ladybug, “She’s the fake.”

Ladybug rolls her eyes. Her voice is full of playful annoyance. “Chaton, use your brain. I know you have one. I used mine during the Copy Cat fight.”

Chat looks back and forth between the two spotted women.  One stern yet waggish, the other coquettish and tender. Senti-bug’s lower lip trembles. “M… My kiss broke the spell you were under during Dark Cupid. It… It had to be a true love’s kiss.”

Now, Chat isn’t dumb. He knows he can be oblivious. Look at Marinette’s crush on him. Looking back, he realizes and sees what he missed. “What about the boy you kept turning me down for? What has changed?”

Senti-Bug looks at Chat coyly. “I… I realized he doesn’t see me that way. And… And being so close to you in battles. Well…” She looks away bashfully. “You know what they say about life and death situations… They tend to draw people closer.”

Chat seems to ponder these words as a yo-yo bonks his head. The real Ladybug stands, arms crossed, looking unamused. “I’d almost believe that myself. Yes, I do love my partner, to a point. But the love is more Philia, Storage…” She smiles tenderly. “Even Agape…” Her cheeks pinken slightly. “With maybe a touch of budding Ludus.” Her gentle yet stern look is back. “And definitely full of Pragma. But my Eros love is only for a certain someone in my civilian life.” She gives a kittenish grin while waving one hand. “But then I think Chat’s knows all about those kinds of love with others as well.”  She pauses, giving a knowing grin, chin resting on her fist. “At least for a certain Purrincess.”

Chat blushes and suddenly looks like a child who got caught with their hand in the cookie jar. He coughs. “You’re the real LB.” Ladybug chuckles at his reaction.

Senti-Bug reaches for Chat. Seemingly in pain. “No. I’m the real Ladybug. You… You love me. You have to love me.”

With a groan, Mayura steps out from her hiding spot. “Enough of this drama.”

Ladybug greets the villain. “Hello, Mayura.”

Chat looks stunned. “Mayura? But... she looks so real. This Ladybug isn't an illusion or an Akumatized person.”

The spotted heroine sadly shakes her head as she walks over to her partner. “Uh-huh, she's a sentimonster.”

The cat hero inspects the Senti. “But she's so much more elaborate than any of those we've faced before! She's so perfect, there's nothing monstrous about her at all.”

Ladybug shakes her head and places a hand on her partner’s shoulder in empathy. “Sorry, kitty, but you should have known. I'm nowhere near as perfect as her.”

Ever the flirt, Chat turns his head and kisses LB’s hand on his shoulder. “I love you just the way you are, M'lady.”

With a roll of her eyes, Ladybug removes her hand, moving it to her yo-yo. “Got a hint of where the amok is?” She pauses, eyes squinting. “Look at what Mayura is holding.”

The peafowl villain takes her opportunity. “Whatever it takes, steal their Miraculous and don't hold back.”

Senti-Bug tosses her yo-yo up, calling out. “Senti Charm!” She gets a blaster.

With a smug look, LB follows suit. “I'll show you a real Lucky Charm!” A fork falls into her hands.

Her partner has a good laugh. “Okay, you're definitely the real one.”

The quartet fights for several moments. Mayura attempts to stay out of it. Ladybug notices. “Mayura looks exhausted. Now’s our chance to bring her down, and find out who's behind the mask.” She and Chat dodge more sticky blasts. When she notices a glass board, it gives her an idea. “Cover your ears.” Ladybug scratches the glass with the fork, creating an ear-piercing sound that forces Senti-Bug and Mayura to cover their ears. Mayura drops her Eiffel Tower keychain, and Ladybug grabs it as the villain screams, “No!”

Ladybug is about to release the amok when she realizes something and stops. Seeing her hesitation, Chat is confused. “What's going on? Aren’t you going to break it?”

Ladybug looks him in the eyes. Shaking her head, she speaks earnestly. “You're right. There's nothing monstrous about her. Whoever possesses this controls the sentimonster. She couldn't help but follow orders.” The spotted heroine approaches the immobile Sentimonter and gives her the keychain. “Senti-Bug, you're free now. I won't give you orders, but I ask you, help us grab Mayura's Miraculous.”

Senti-Bug accepts her Amok tearfully. “Thank you, Ladybug. I will help you.” She joins the duo and spins her yo-yo in sync with the actual Ladybug, with one heroine on either side of the cat.

Chat gives his signature grin, remembering the fight with Timebreaker. “ Are we cool, or are we cool? We could call ourselves Cat Noir and his Ladybugs.”

Ladybug laughs. “I prefer the Bugettes and Kitty Cat. What do you think?”

Senti-Bug smiles and laughs as well. “You're in charge, Ladybug.”

Poor Chat sighs with a smile. “I should've guessed.” He radiates playfulness, happy at his good fortune of having two of his Ladies. With their squad nickname decided, the trio approaches Mayura, who is backed into a corner with the three ready to confiscate her Miraculous. Mayura clenches her hand, hurting the Sentimonster Ladybug and causing her to collapse in pain.

The peafowl holder sneers at the group. “How dare you turn on your maker?” A blue cloud surrounds Senti-Bug, and she disappears. “I release you.”

This enrages Chat. “How could you!? She was a living being. Angered at the weakened Mayura for erasing the innocent Sentimonster, he charges at her, but Hawk Moth suddenly appears and knocks him away.  

Hawk Moth mocks him for getting emotional over the former artificial being. “Getting sentimental over a sentimonster?”

Ladybug sneers at the newcomer. “Hawk Moth!”

Still pissed, Chat bares his claws. “You're the real monster!” With that, Hawk Moth fights a pissed-off cat hero and a spotted heroine simultaneously. “We've missed you, Grandpa! You don't mind me calling you Grandpa, right?” The cat hero banters while fighting. 

Hawk Moth manages to kick Ladybug away before responding to Chat. “You won't be joking around when I take your Miraculous!”

Ladybug gets an idea and shouts for her partner to cover her. Chat holds off Hawk Moth, buying Ladybug enough time to capture Mayura. Unfortunately, during that interval, Hawk Moth manages to capture Chat. The moth villain laughs evilly. “Check, Ladybug!” The heroine takes notice of the predicament, shouting, “No!”

HM is ready to take the Cat Miraculous. The hero himself quickly reacts by activating his signature superpower. “Cataclysm!” The energy of his Cataclysm surrounds his palm, protecting his Miraculous from Hawk Moth.

This prompts Ladybug to compliment him for his quick thinking. “Good move, Kitty. Now all I have to do is grab Mayura's Miraculous, and it's over. Checkmate, Hawk Moth. You'd better surrender.”

Hawk Moth starts his evil laugh again. “All I need to do is wait a few minutes until you and your pet transform back into regular kids. So fragile, so easy to break.”

This pisses Ladybug off. “Release him! If you harm so much as one hair on his head, I swear I’ll make Hell look like a child’s playground.”

Hawk Moth is only slightly intimidated. “You release her first.”

At the same time, Mayura calls out, “Don't mind me.” While Chat shouts, “Don't listen to him.” Both sides, having no other options, decide to throw their hostages. Ladybug and Hawk Moth briefly stare off at each other before rescuing their formerly captivated allies. Mayura falls into a coughing fit, while Chat hisses at the villainous pair.

A new blond emerges from a hiding spot. “Hawk Moth. I am Felix. I believe we spoke several days ago.” He gives a tight smile. “How about I escort the Lady back, while you finish off this fight?”

HM looks over the young adult. “And how do I know I can trust you?”

The young man flashes his signet ring. “Because the Lady can end me with a snap.” A knowing look passes between the two, and the older man entrusts his partner to the younger one. With a sly grin, Felix scoops up the weak lady and heads off. Once out of earshot, he asks, “Where to?”

Mayura answers after her coughing calms down. “Agreste Mansion.” Felix chuckles to himself while moving in the correct direction. At the gate, Mayura eyes him suspiciously.  He calmly waits. Once he sees his opening, one hand grabs her throat while the other takes her brooch. “Why, thank you, Nathalie. Give Uncle my regards, but I must be going now.”

Back at the fight, the pair of heroes are holding their own. Chat managed to use Cataclysm on Hawk Moths’ cane. Both heroes are on their last minute when Natalie’s call comes through. “Felix took the brooch.”  Hawk Moth screams in frustration. “That double crosser. I’ll deal with him later.” Using the distraction, Ladybug and Chat hide to recharge.

Ladybug feeds Tikki quickly and whispers. “We’ve almost got him.”

However, Hawk Moth notices that the heroes vanished. He assumes, correctly, that they are recharging and decides to retreat and care for Nathalie. After coming out of hiding, the heroes see that their opponent is gone. Chat’s tail twitches in agitation. “Well, shit. We almost had him.”

Ladybug places a hand on his shoulder. “Next time, Kitty.” She holds out her fist, and he bumps it with his own. In unison. “Pound it.”

Chat gazes at Ladybug with a sense of calm awe. “M’Lady. Did you really mean everything you said? When you were talking about the whole love thing.”

She smiles at him sincerely. “Yes, Chaton.” Her hand cups his cheek. “I meant every word. If I weren’t so head-over-heels over my civilian crush, I would have fallen for you in a New York minute.” She drops her hand and looks away. “But I fell for him first. And it wouldn’t be fair to you, because I can’t give you my whole heart, like you deserve.” Chat just stands there grinning like a fool. A red and black spotted fork catches Ladybug’s eye. She picks it up, grins, tosses it into the sky, and shouts. “Miraculous Ladybug!” What little damage that was done during the fight is fixed. She smiles at her partner before saying, “Bug Out, Kitty.” And she yo-yos off towards her home, taking a long route. Chat hurumps, grinning, and heads back to the school to find his bodyguard.

Chapter Text

Once home, Adrien paces in his room. His many calls to Felix go unanswered. Seeing no better option, Plagg decides to instigate his type of help. After all, desperate times call for desperate measures. He just hopes Tikki doesn’t try to kill him for this. “Hey, Kid.” He waits till Adrien looks over at him. “You know how you said you couldn’t ‘knock-up’ a girl on your first try?”

Softly, Adriens replies. “Yeah.” He is more than a little confused as to why his Kwami is bringing this up now and why he is being so serious.

Plagg takes a deep breath as he motions for his holder to sit. Once Adrien sits at his desk, Plagg sits atop the center monitor. “Well, Kid. I know of a way for you to make sure you impregnate your partner on the first try.” The blond model looks godsmacked. “However, there is a downside. A complication or consequence, if you will.” Puzzled, the cat holder motions for his Kwami to continue. “There is an ancient ritual, well, more like actions with intention, that will allow you to bond with a mate of your choice. This mating will one-hundred percent guarantee that your mate will conceive your offspring.”

Adrien ponders this for several moments before addressing his Kwami. “OK. And what are the complications you speak of?”

The cat Kwami is glad his holder is thinking properly and asking questions. This reassures him that he is making the right decision in sharing this information. “First, it is permanent. There is no way to remove the Mating Mark. You are sharing your soul, so it will always be tied to theirs. Second, you can only be with them for your whole lifetime. As in you will not be able to…” He waves his paws, looking for the right words. “To be blunt, you won’t be able to get it up for anyone other than your mate.” 

The cat holder turns as red as a tomato. “Given my age, I can see where that might be a problem. But that would only be later on, if my ‘mate’ and I have a falling-out. Would there be any problems for her?”

Plagg nods in appreciation. “Good question. It shows that you are taking this seriously. On your mate’s side, they won’t be able to have offspring with anyone other than you, especially if they are a Miraculous holder.” He lets this information settle for a moment. “However, with you being a young male, you would have the ability to take a second mate after twenty years. If you do take a second mate, the first mate will be able to bear a child with someone else. You will still be soul-bound to your first mate, but the bond will weaken.”

Adrien contemplates all the information he has learned so far. Would he mind being loyal to only one woman for the rest of his life? No, he wouldn’t, especially if it was Marinette, his Lady. He always thought the two of them were soulmates anyway. He should share the information and let her make her own decision, though. He would never force anything on her. “Is there anything else I need to know?”

Again, Plagg is grateful his holder is taking this so seriously and asking questions. “If you focus, you will be able to sense your mate’s basic emotions, like happy, sad, angry, etcetera. And you will always know when they are in danger and how to get to them if the need arises. The fun part is if your mate has ever used your Miraculous.” Adrien’s interest piques at this. “They will have the ability to mark you back. That bond is what they call a once-in-a-Dynasty bond. No one knows the full extent of that kind of bond. Rumor has it that the mated pair can develop limited telepathy and enhance it to full-blown mind-link telepathy. AKA, telepathy, like Hawk Moth and his Akumas, minus the mask and all.”

Adrien spins in his chair. “I’ll have to go over all of this with M’Lady, Marinette, before we act. Do you think she would go for it? Mating with me, I mean. And maybe a two-way mating.”

Plagg cackles before zipping off to get his cheese. He’s had enough serious time. “Maybe, Kid. Maybe.” After dinner, Adrien freshens up. He wants to get the ball rolling as soon as possible.

In her room, Marinette paces. “Tikki, what do you think Chat has planned?”

The red Kwami flits around nervously. “I… I may have an idea… But… but I half hope it’s not what I think it is.”

The bluenette turns to face her Kwami. “And that would be?”

Tikki shakes her head. “It doesn’t matter, unless…” Marinette gestures for her to continue. “Unless he knows who you are under the mask.” Muttering too softly for her holder to hear. “Though I wouldn’t put it past that cat with the way he is acting.” 

Mullo lands next to the Ladybug Kwami. “But she did such a good job covering herself.”

Wayzz’s eyes go as big as coins. “You think Plagg brought That up?” Tikki nods yes.

Marinette isn’t paying attention, pacing her room again. “I guess we’ll find out during patrol tonight.” Her pleading eyes meet her Kwami again. “Do you think he’ll agree?” She flops on her chaise, and the Kwamis swarm her in comfort. 

Trixx, “You can use me to escape. Use Mullo to split in two. Then one of you can stay in class with me and my illusion, while the other goes to fight with Tikk or Plagg, or whoever.”

The young Guardian nods vigorously. “Yes, that could work. “ A sudden, yet familiar thud of boots draws everyone’s attention. 

All Kwamis scatter and hide as a tapping comes from her skylight. Marinette scrambles up her loft, opens the skylight, and pops halfway through. “Chat! What brings you here? Isn’t it early for patrol?” Realizing her mistake, she backtracks. “I mean, I often see you out… And Alya… You know her, the Ladyblogger. She… She has articles and posts that highlight some patrol times… Not enough for anyone to discern a schedule.” A clawed finger is pressed to her lips to stop her rambling.

Chat can be heard chuckling fondly as he quiets his de-transformed Lady. “Easy there, Purrincess.” A playful yet knowing smile plays across his face. “I get what you’re saying.” His belt-tail twitches in nervous anticipation behind him. “Would you mind if this stray comes inside to warm up for a bit?” He gives her his best kitten eyes. “I… I… uh… Have some things I want to talk to you about.”

The baker’s child sighs and ushers the cat hero into her room. The two are sitting on her chaise. “What is it you want to talk about?”

Chat takes a deep breath and holds it for five seconds before exhaling. He takes both her hands in his as his belt-tail wraps around the calf of her leg. “Purr-lease listen to me before you react.” He waits for her to consent.  “As you may or may not know, my home life sucks. Neglectful, control-freak for a father. My mother has been gone for a few years.” He pauses, his thumbs rubbing the back of her hands. “It’s getting worse. He… He wants me to date a… A person.” He spits out the word ‘person’ with as much venom as he could. “I despise them with every fiber of my being. I… I have been so tempted to let Plagg deal with her.”

Marinette gasp. “Chat, no! You’re a hero. You can’t let your Kwami destroy a person. At least not permanently.”

The cat hero chuckles. “I know, Purrincess. Though I am sure if you knew who it was, you would agree with Plagg.” Marinette looks skeptical, but stays silent. “Back to the matters at hand, though. I have been exploring ways to become emancipated. But it’s not looking good. The lawyer I spoke to said there really isn’t a way for me. However, Plagg pointed out one way. Now, I know you are having some issues in school… And your parents want to send you off to London.” He takes a pause and drops one of her hands to run his through his hair. “I think we can help each other… But before I get into the details… I want you to know. I didn’t find out on purr-pose, well, not fully at least. But once I connected the spots, everything made sense.” His free hand rubs the back of his neck. A nervous habit he has both in and out of the mask. “Plagg tried to talk me out of it, but the more he denied, the more sure I became.”

Marinette stares at him. ‘He knows? But he can’t know. Did I make a mistake? Did I slip up?’ Her thoughts begin to spiral. ‘Oh no. Is Blanc going to return? Where is Bunnyx? She can fix this. We can’t know. HE can’t know.’

Sensing her distress, Chat holds both of Marinette’s hands. He gently begins to coax her. “Purrincess, M’Lady. Calm down. You did nothing wrong. Your Kitty is just a little too smart and curious for his own good.” He takes a deep breath. “Marinette, look at me.” He leans in nose to nose with the bluenette. “I’m glad it’s you. It couldn’t be anyone else. No one can fill your shoes. Your secret is safe.”

She half snaps out of it. Looking into Chat’s emerald green eyes, Marinette feels her heart clench. “No. You can’t become him. Tikki, what do we do? Fluff, where is Bunnyx?”

The Kwamis all come out of their hiding places. Fluff floats out. “Time is not always linear. What happened yesterday could lead one way today and another tomorrow, and even another way two days before yesterday. Every trigger, every fork, every decision can lead to different outcomes depending on how and when they are made.”

Tikki rests on her holder’s shoulder. “I guess it’s time to let the cat out of the bag.” Chat grins at the pun.

Wayzz sits on Marinette’s other shoulder. “Well, I surmise that the water is boiling. You may want to add the noodles before the water boils out.”

Marinette sighs in relief and smiles at her partner. “Okay, Kitty. If the Kwamis feel it is safe to share our identities, then I have no objections.”

A Cheshiren grin erupts on the cat hero’s face as he radiates pure joy. “Since I figured you out, I’ll give you clues as to who I am.” He drops her hands and pulls her into his lap. “Keep what I have told you about my family in your mind.” Pause. “My father wants me to date Lila… And marry her when I turn eighteen, all for the Brand.”

The bluenette trembles with anger. “I’m gonna choke a… Lying whore.” Then a moment of clarity hits her. She recalls every detail she has learned about her Kitty. He can see the exact moment everything clicks in her mind. “Oh, my poor Chaton. My Purrince. It all makes sense… Adrien.” He drops his transformation as soon as she says his civilian name. Gazing deep in her bluebell eyes, he leans in for a kiss, only for her to suddenly crack up laughing.

Stopping short of her lips, Adrien’s face morphs into one of confusion. “What’s so funny?”

She manages to gasp, “Not… You… Us… Love… Square,” between laughs and wheezing.  After a minute, she manages to catch her breath. “Plagg, Tikki. You two must have been laughing at us and been exasperated by our antics this whole time.” Both Kwamis indicate that the assessment is correct.

Adrien tilts his head like the confused kitten he is. “Want to clue some of us in, M’Lady?”

After a deep sigh, Marinette shakes her head as if she can’t believe it. Meeting her partner’s confused look, she explains. “Adrien. You are the other boy. Marinette fell in love with her kind, considerate classmate who gave her a second chance after she was rude as Hell to him. He repaid her impetuous, ignorant judgment with open, candid honesty and won her heart. So when Ladybug’s charming, flirtatious partner confessed his adoration, she had to turn him down. Sadly, this kind classmate kept friend-zoning Marinette because he fell in love with his spotted crime-fighting partner.”

It’s Adrien’s turn to laugh uncontrollably this time. After several minutes of the pair laughing together, they end up with their limbs entangled in a very intimate position. Adrien’s face turns as red as Ladybug’s suit when he notices their positions. He coughs a few times to hide his nervousness. “So all this time, we were chasing each other and didn’t realize it? I guess that explains the Oblivio fight.”

Looking over at her now de-transformed partner, she notices his healing, yet still discolored face. “Adrien! What happened?! You.. Your face looks like you walked into an open cabinet.”

The blond shrugs. “I told you fa, Gabriel wants me to court Lila. We argued over it. I told him, no way in hell would I ever consider her. He said I had no choice and backhanded me across the room for daring to tell him no.”

She cups his injured cheek. “Oh, Kitty. I’m sorry. You deserve so much better.”

Adrien nuzzles into her hand, eyes closed, and a soft purr emanates from his chest. “I have you. That is enough.” His voice drops to a nearly inaudible whisper. “I love you. M’Lady. Ma Purrincess.”

Marinette’s blush is as bad as his. “I… I love you too…” Her hands drop to her lap. “So what was your big solution to our problem? You said Plagg pointed out one.”

The young model rubs the back of his neck. “Well… I want you to know, I wouldn’t suggest this if it were anyone other than you, Marinette, you that is. You being Ladybug is just icing on the cake. It’s kind of permanent. But it will emancipate both of us. I’ll have access to the trust fund my mother left me, so we won’t want for anything. I’ll be able to support us for three or four lifetimes. You can focus on schooling, then your career. I can be a homemaker, at least for a few years until I figure out what I want to do with my life.”

The young Guardian chuckles. “Adrien, you’re rambling. That’s my job.”

Tikki registers what the cat holder is trying to say. “So, Plagg brought up That concept.” Her paw taps her cheek a few times. “I must say, it will benefit your partnership in and out of the suits… But after the first six months, she would have to take a four to five-month break.”

Plagg zips over. “I can protect them, and her afterwards… Or she can partner with any of the other Kwamis for that time.”

Wayzz gets between the two. “Both of you have good points. Fu did choose these two as holders for a reason. Holders like them haven’t been seen for several Millennium. Both are equally compatible with Creation and Destruction.”

Barkk has to add their input. “And look at the bonds they have developed. No one has been able to wear as many Miraculous as our Guardian. None have ever treated us with such respect. Tikki constantly says she is one of the best Ladybugs ever.”

Roarr adds, “None of Plagg’s other holders had so many cat-like qualities bleed over into their civilian lives.”

Quizzically, Marinette scrutinizes the Kwamis. “What are you talking about?”

Fluff zigzags across the room. “The two of you are drawn to each other over many lifetimes. Whether it’s today, hundreds of years ago, or many lifetimes to come, your souls will make their way to each other. I mean, you have fallen in love with each other three times in this lifetime alone.”

Adrien smiles like a child who has just gotten everything he wanted for Christmas. “You mean I was right? We are truly soulmates?” All the Kwamis nod a yes.

With feigned annoyance, Marinette draws everyone’s attention back. “So, what is everyone going on about? What is this big solution?”

Adrien rubs the back of his neck, avoiding looking at his partner. “Well, umm. There is only one path I can take to emancipation…” He pauses, fiddling nervously. “It would allow me to get away from Gabriel and get me access to my trust fund… And my CDC account, which holds the majority of my pay from modeling.” The poor boy tries to gather his thoughts as Marinette motions for him to continue. She grabs one of his hands to comfort him. “It’s marriage. I would have to get married… But the only way to get married at our age is… is if we conceive a child.”

Marinette.exe stops working. After a reboot, she shyly glances at her partner through her lowered lashes. “Are… Are you… Asking me to have a child with you? And… And get married?”

Emerald eyes dart to meet sapphire ones. “Only… Only if you wish.” Adrien straightens up and pulls out a red velvet box from his pocket.  Opening it up, inside sits a small, two-carat, heart-shaped pink diamond. The band is rose gold, and on either side of the diamond sits a small ruby and a black opal. “Marinette. M’Lady. Ma Princess. Mon cœur. Ma chérie.” His smile widens as she blushes harder. “Ma coccinelle. Will you take in this stray and give him a fur-ever home?” Both chuckle at the pun. “Mon amour, will you be my bride, my Mate, the mother of my child, my forever?”

Marinette springs into his lap, knocking the blond onto his back. Her arms wrap around his neck while her lips crash into his for a rough kiss. “Yes. I will, I do,” Is her breathless reply as their foreheads rest against each other. “But what is this about a Mate? And you know it could take months, or even years, to get pregnant.”

Plagg decides to give his holder a break. “Actually, Guardian, I can speak better on this. We have already confirmed that the two of you are soulmates, which makes this easier and more convenient.” He glances between the two teens. “All Black Cat Holders have the ability to take a Bonded Mate.” The cat Kwami looks over at Tikki, and the two have a quick, silent conversation. “Sugarcube and I believe that the two of you can achieve full-blown telepathy, if not more, especially if you both mark each other.”

Wayzz takes this moment to interject. “Mating will guarantee conception. As stated before, the female may continue to battle up until her sixth month of pregnancy. There is a drawback, though.  You will both be very protective of your mate. Even a hint of perceived danger can spark the other to act. More so for males, as females carry their offspring. Once the child is born, the urges are easier to manage.” Seeing the fretful expressions on the teens’ faces, the Kwami shifts attention. “But on the bright side, your synchronicity will improve, and when separated, you will be able to sense when the other is in danger and make your way to them instinctually.” A somber pause is taken. “This is not something that should be taken lightly. I hope Plagg explained the risks and drawbacks that come with mating.”

Plagg scoffs. “I did. The kid even asked several questions, which I answered bluntly.”

This rankles Marinette. “What risks and drawbacks? Could this harm either of us?”

Tikki shifts uneasily. “They aren’t that bad. The male has the worst of them, but they aren’t harmful, persay.” The young Guardian motions for her to elaborate.

Adrien jumps in. “I have discussed everything with Plagg. We had an hour-long conversation on this. He explained that this is permanent. We will not be able to undo it, but after twenty years, we will be able to take a new Mate, only if we choose to. That will lift the drawbacks, for the most part. But I will be the one who bears the worst drawbacks. And I accept them. I’m not a fan of infidelity anyway, so that part won’t matter.” He faces his partner. “I’ll be the only person who can get you pregnant if we do it. “

A blush creeps up from Marinette’s toes to the top of her head. “I… I don’t mind that.”

Adrien’s face lights up again. “You… You want to Mate with me? Since you used my ring, you can Mark me as well.” It’s the blonde’s turn to blush from head to toe.”I would be proud to wear your Mark, Purrincess.”

The two teens stare at each other, each one a blushing mess. Closing her eyes, Marinette takes a deep breath, holds it for the count of five, then exhales slowly. As she opens her eyes, a soft smile surfaces. “So, how do we do this?”

The black cat Kwami cackles. He knows this is going to embarrass both holders. “That’s easy, Pigtails. You screw each other, then at the moment of your dual climax, you bite each other with the intent of claiming the other as your Mate.”

Tikki adds her bit. “You have to climax in unison, at exactly the same time. I would suggest clit stimulation when you get close, Adrien.” Again, both teens turn as red as Ladybug’s suit. Marinette hisses out her Kwami’s name. “Tikki.” The Kwami acts as if nothing is wrong. “It’s an important piece. But given how in sync the two of you are in battle, and when together in general, I don’t think it will be a problem.” She shoos the other Kwamis away. “We will give you privacy for this part. Plagg and I will be able to tell once the bond is made, so we’ll come out after that.” The ladybug Kwami flies off to her hidey-hole, and the black cat Kwami is close behind.

Both teens sit in silence, blushing for what seems like hours. In truth, it was only mere seconds. Adrien breaks the silence first. “Are you sure you want this? I mean… I’m sure we could just swap Miraculous if that’s what you want… I guess we would have to switch anyway. It’s just that you will carry the bulk of this to begin with… I know having a baby is no small matter… And I don’t want to put any pressure on you… We could finish Lycee online, together… And I could watch the baby while you attend Uni… I don’t know what I want to do in life… But I know I want a real family…”

Marinette shuts him up the best way she knows how. Her lips glide over his, stopping his words mid-sentence. His lips tasted of mint and chaos as his hand slid to the back of her neck. She didn’t stop him. Instead, she drew closer, almost in his lap. Her fingers tangled in his hair, anchoring herself to him as his lips moved against hers with maddening patience. A mild tug of his hair has the boy gasping into the kiss. This opening allows Marinette to slide her tongue along his, playfully luring him into a match.  Not to be outdone, Adrien engages back, both tongues battling for dominance till both teens are left breathless. Breaking apart, the two rest their foreheads together as they catch their breath.

—------------

Acting on instincts, Adrien peppers kisses, kitten licks, and nibble bites along her jaw to her ear and down her neck. He fiddles with the zipper on the back of her shirt and deftly unlatches her bra. ‘So beautiful,’ he thinks. Clothes are discarded one item at a time as the couple explores each other’s bodies. Fingers flicking against skin like the hot light of falling stars. Every touch conveys the longing, the passion, the unconditional love that flows freely between the partners. The two meet in a slow, sensual dance. With a tender, loving gentleness, he slides in. In the sheets, they dance together, in sync, like during battles, meeting each other’s wants and needs. Slowly, passion builds, then upon the crescendo, teeth meet smooth skin. It's almost as if the Heavens descend and engulf the pair. The Red String entangles and ties the two heroes together for the rest of eternity.

—---------------

An hour later, the newly mated heroes wake up, bodies entangled with new matching marks. Over their hearts are quarter-sized red and black paw prints. The digital pads are black, while the metacarpal pad is red with five black spots. Marinette covers Adrien’s mark as he places his hand over hers. Bluebell eyes gaze lovingly in emerald eyes. Marinette is enamoured with a smile full of tenderness as she sofly whispers. “You and me…” Adrien, being fully smitten, finishes her sentence. “Against the world, as always, M’Lady.”  Her lips glide along his. The kiss wasn't fireworks. It was more like a promise, devoted, passionate, warmhearted, tender, and ardent. 

As the couple cuddles closer, simply enjoying the presence of the other, a round of “Aww’s” draws them back to reality. Looking around, the duo notices they are surrounded by all the Kwamis, minus Plagg, who is on the desk eating a cheese danish. Tikki giggles at the lovebirds. “I’m glad the whole love-square is over. I suggest you both wait until Friday, the last day of school, for you to take your test. I can guarantee that it will be positive by then. Then, on Saturday, you can get your Marriage Certificate at City Hall. From there, I would head to the bank to handle the finances. Sunday can be your Honeymoon, here of course. Monday would be a good day for apartment shopping, then completing the school paperwork for online classes.” The teens nod in agreement with the Ladybug Kwami.

As if remembering something, Marinette looks at Wayzz. “We need to go see Master Fu. When should we visit him? I can go alone while Adrien is in school, or we can maybe visit before Patrol. I suppose I can speak with him tomorrow afternoon, when I go for my Guardian training.”

Adrien thinks for a moment. “I may be able to meet you there tomorrow. I have a photoshoot with Lila in the morning. But Nathalie said my afternoon is clear for homework and studying.”

With a bright smile, Marinette concludes, “Then we will meet tomorrow at 16:00 hours at Master Fu’s place.”

Plagg finally looks over. “And if the old geezer tries to separate us, he’ll be dust. Now you two should get some sleep. Sugarcube and I will wake you up at four A.M.”

Tikki flies over and smacks him, albeit playfully. “I told you not to call me that, you Stinky Sock.” Looking at her holder. “Don’t forget, you have to help your parents with the bakery in the morning. We’ll watch over you both.” Both teens nod sleepily, curl back up together, and drift off to sleep.

Chapter Text

Saturday morning comes, the Kwamis wake up the sleeping couple at four in the morning. Both dress quickly. Marinette prepares for her shift at the bakery. Before transforming, Adrien steals a kiss and a croissant. Marinette’s day goes as normal. She hides her ring on a long necklace.

Adrien slips in through his bathroom window, de-transforms, and jumps into the shower. He is dressed and ready when Nathalie summons him for breakfast. The model is thankful for the snacks his fiancée slipped him before he left. He gets all giddy thinking about Marinette being his fiancée.

At the photoshoot, Adrien is on cloud nine, and everyone notices. His wardrobe stylist, Annalis, is the first to see his new mark.  “Adrien Agreste. What is that mark on your chest? Does your father know? How did you get it? I know for a fact, your father would never approve.”

Adrien moves quickly to quiet the woman. “Anna. Hush. My girlfriend gave it to me. No, my father doesn’t know. He wants me to start dating Lila in a week.”

Anna nearly retches. “He wants you to date that… that thing?” She hands the model his clothes for the shoot. He dresses behind a curtain. Once fully dressed, the stylist looks him over and makes the necessary adjustments. “We all see how the thing treats you. All three of us have seen the marks she leaves. I hope you plan to expose her soon.” She turns to call for the hairstylist and make-up artist, but stops mid-turn. Looking back at the blond, “Wait! Did you say girlfriend?” Adrien averts his eyes bashfully, a slight blush rising in the apples of his cheeks. He nods to indicate yes. Anna lets out a happy squeal, which prompts the hairstylist and makeup artist to enter the tent.

Maria, the make-up artist, surveys the tent. “What is going on? For a moment, I thought that Rossi-trash had broken into the tent.”

Anna claps her hands excitedly, a look of pure joy on her face. “Our Golden Boy has a girlfriend.”

Elena, the hairstylist, looks on in shock. “What?! Since when?” Taking a moment, she composes herself. “I’ll start today. You can give the deets while I style, got it, Goldie?” She pulls out her supplies and starts styling the young model’s hair.

Maria, “Yeah, you first, Elena. I need Goldie’s blush to die down.” She pauses. “On second thought, Vincent did say that today’s shoot is supposed to be a romantic theme.” Adrien and Anna both groan. 

Elena looks confused. Looking at Anna, she asks. “Babe. Love, what are we missing?”

Adrien decides to take the hit. “Sorry, girls. My fa… Gabriel is trying to push me to date Lila. I told him no, and well, you can see the fading results.” He gestures to his healing face. “And by the way, could one of you please document my injuries?”

Elena pulls out her Polaroid Now camera and snaps several shots of Adrien’s injuries, from both Lila and Gabriel. She stashes them in his bag. “So… About this girl. Is it the one you have been going on about for years? Has she finally noticed our Golden Boy?”

Adrien’s blush is back, full force. “Yeah. Turns out she was crushing on me just as hard as I was crushing on her. But, she thought my confessions and attempts to woo her were just playful teasing.” He moves to run the back of his neck, but Elena stops his hand. She doesn’t want him messing up her work, yet. The looks of all three women encourage him to continue. “I… I was giving her mixed messages. I think I need to stop using manga and anime as romance guides.” A few eyebrows get raised at this. Maria just shakes her head and motions for Adrien to continue. “I was… unintentionally friend-zoning her in class, all while fawning over and flirting with her online.”  He sighs heavily. “I didn’t know my online crush was the girl behind me in class, whom I was also crushing on. It didn’t help that in person, she was a nervous, stuttering, clumsy mess, but online, she was the epitome of cool confidence.”  

Elena, done with her part, steps in front of Adrien and takes his hands. “We support you. You are like a little brother to all three of us.” Her solemn tone becomes sassy. “But you’ve got to bring your princess to see us, soon.”

Anna chuckles at the model’s chagrined expression. “Don’t worry, Goldie. You know Elena and I are committed to one another. We won’t try to steal your girl.”

Maria, just finishing unpacking her makeup kit, chimes in. “Yeah. You’re like a little brother to us. We watched you grow up, kiddo.” She smirks as she starts on the model’s look for the day, making sure to cover all injuries properly. She knows it will save her hubby time during the touch-ups. “We’ve got your back. You are our little Tamaki. Bring your little Haruhi next time.” Pause. “Oh, by the way, how is your big E coming along?”

With makeup done, it's Adrien’s turn to smirk. “Give me another month and a half to two months, and I’ll be done.”

A saccarine voice comes from outside the tent. “Adrien, darling. Vincent is waiting for us. Your father wanted us to start taking our courting pictures.”

All four inside the tent groan. With a roll of his eyes, Adrien requests his crew. “Please record this for me. Send it to my burner phone.” The three women nod in agreement. Maria sets up her phone camera to record as it follows Adrien out of the tent. 

Lila immediately latches onto Adrien’s arm, one hand grazing his chest. The camera catches his flinch and grimace. “Lila, I have asked you countless times. Please, stop touching me. I am not your arm candy. I am not your trophy. I have told you countless times. I. Do. Not. Like. You.”

The girl attempts to giggle coquettishly. “Adrien, darling. Your father has already told me. We are to start courting in a week. This shoot is to hype the media.” She rises on her tiptoes to kiss Adrien.

He turns his head and uses his free hand to block her. His tone is icy. “I don’t care what Gabriel has told you. But I assure you, he and I do NOT agree. You. Are. Nothing. But. A Fellow. Model. To. Me.” He turns to face her and channels the inner sternness and iciness he learned from his mother, who was known to be an ice queen in her teenage years. “I told you before, I refuse to forgive someone who harms someone I love. And you, Lie-La, have harmed Marinette repeatedly. Now, if you do not release me, I will be forced to call my bodyguard.” 

Letting go of his arm, Lila growls and stomps away, mumbling. “Stupid Mari-trash. What does she have that I don’t? I am better than that… that slut.”

The photoshoot does not go poorly, but it doesn’t go that well either. Vincent and Gabriel are upset with the quality of the photos. Adrien’s expressions are ‘too forced,’ while Lila looks like a White Lotus from one of the Chinese dramas Adrien and Chloe watch. Gabriel isn’t dumb. He knows Lila’s true colors. To him, she is a tool to help keep his son under control until he can rewrite everything with his Wish once he obtains the Miraculous he needs.

Liam, Maria’s husband and the Digital Editor, can see the tension and disgust in Adrien, as well as the manipulative calculation in Lila. He marks the possessive way she grips the blond, her false adoration, and the power-hungry look underneath it all. He sends all copies to Maria. Attached are his notes as a forensic psychology student.  

Adrien manages to finish his homework before he has to meet Marinette. The blond also has time to forward all the evidence he has gathered to his lawyer, M. Gauthier. These include the video Plagg recorded and everything from the day’s photoshoot, including what Liam sent to Maria. Adrien also sends copies to his alternate email.

In the afternoon, Master Fu isn’t too happy to see the couple together when they enter his shop. “So, is it safe to assume you both know who the other is?” Everyone sits at his table with a cup of warm Jasmine tea. The Kwamis munch on their snacks sitting on the table.

Plagg drops his cheese to confront the old master. “There were extenuating circumstances. My Kitten needs a way to get out of his controlling house.” The cat Kwami is nearly vibrating with anger. “Things have escalated. He is being forced into an abusive, controlling relationship with a She-Devil by his equally abusive, controlling, neglectful parent.”

Tikki floats over and hugs her counterpart, trying to soothe him. “My holder’s parents are looking to send her to London, due to no fault of her own. Adrien may have the makings of a good Bug, but switching now will put both holders at a disadvantage, especially if they can’t fight and train together regularly.” She turns her attention solely to Master Fu. “All Kwamis agreed. You can’t take us away anymore. They are Mates. We are here as a courtesy to inform you.” She pauses, her tone softening. “Though your guidance and assistance to our holders would be greatly appreciated. They are just teens after all.”

The old Guardian looks over at the expectant teens and sighs. “Well, it was bound to happen. I hoped the two of you would have defeated the enemy first, but if what Plagg and Tikki said is true, then it could not be helped.” He gives a genuine smile. “I guess congratulations are in order.”

Both teens blush as Marinette places a hand on her abdomen, subconsciously. “We only mated last night. But I think I can feel the difference.” Adrien beams at her as his hand moves over hers.

With a happy yet resigned sigh, Master Fu gives his blessing. He also offers to sign over the deed to his apartment and shop. “I am getting close to two hundred years old now. I would love nothing more than to spend my days with Marianne. I don’t want to add to your already full plate, but with the two of you being mates, I can hand over full control of the Guardianship now.” He calls his love and shares the news. “Once the child is born, I can name it the Guardian, and the two of you will become acting Guardians.”

Adrien muses. “Like when an Emperor dies before his heir is old enough to rule.”

Fu chuckles at the analogy. “You are correct. However, Guardianship will not be passed down to the child fully until both of you are ready to pass it down.”  The rest of the conversation is pleasant. 

Fu gives his guidance and begins the teen’s new training. The young couple has dinner with Marinette’s family, and Adrien spends the night. 

Sunday is spent cuddled up, playing video games, working on school work, talking with the Kwamis, and generally hanging out. Adrien heads back to the mansion for dinner, but meets back up with Marinette for patrol and a few hours of training.

Adrien has ‘couples-photoshoots’ with Lila on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday mornings. His crew continues to collect evidence, including Liam. 

For Marinette, her week is more open. Her classes and work can be done at anytime of day. Weekday mornings are spent helping her parents in the bakery. Lunch time is spent working on schoolwork. Marinette attends Chinese classes with Adrien and watches his fencing and basketball practices. Ladybug sneaks over to listen to his piano practice before the pair patrols together. And after the first week, Kagami and Marinette get together whenever they have the chance, usually two to three times a week for lunch.

Chat and Ladybug patrol on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights. Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday nights are spent training with Master Fu.

Week 1 of Suspension

Monday afternoon at school is slightly depressing without Marinette. Lila tries to cling to him, and no one stops her, even when Adrien asks her to give him space and stop touching him. 

Tuesday, Lila comes to school and starts hinting at possibly starting a new relationship. She neither confirms nor denies having a crush or getting closer to said crush. Adrien attempts to dodge and avoid her, but Lila stays close to him. She doesn’t hang all over him, but subtly stays in his personal space, occasionally placing a hand on his arm, shoulder, or thigh. He continues to correct her politely, creates distance, and removes her hands from his body.

Wednesday is a half-day, so Adrien or Lila doesn’t have classes. After the photoshoot, Adrien ups and disappears, only for Chat to find his way to Marinette’s balcony. The pair head out to Adrien’s basketball practice together and hang out till dinner time. The liar also starts her smear campaign on Marinette. She indicates that she is being bullied, but refuses to name who. Cuts, scrapes, and bruises begin to appear on various parts of her body.

Thursday is much like the other days. Lila is building up her soon-to-be relationship, indicating that Adrien is her crush and that he reciprocates. She also continues trying to get physically close to Adrien, while discrediting and putting down Marinette when the blond boy can’t hear. 

By the end of lunch on Friday, Adrien had had enough. He nearly blows up at Lila, telling her to back off and leave him alone. When the blond model complains to Alya and Nino, both brush it off as the brunette girl just being overly friendly, like Chloe, and that he doesn’t have to hide his feelings for Lila. Adrien tries to explain that Chloe is like a sister to him, as the two grew up together, and that Lila makes him feel uncomfortable. The heiress overhears and decides to assist Adrien. She has him sit with her for the rest of the day. Adrien confides in Chloe about his relationship with Marinette and that she is helping him get emancipated.  After school, the Bluenette attends her fiancé’s fencing lessons, where the pair informs Kagami of their relationship. Kagami is happy for them and makes plans to hang out with Marinette. The Japanese girl admits that she knew the two had feelings for each other, and that it was only a matter of time till one of them confessed and the pair started to date.

Saturday, around lunch time, Chloe and Sabrina stop by the bakery and apologize to Marinette. The three girls have a nice chat and lunch at a cafe around the corner. Kagami joins them halfway through. The four girls spend the afternoon together.

Sunday is Adrinette day. The couple repeats the same routine. Adrien also helps Marinette complete the majority of her online classwork on this day.

After being quiet all week, since he was busy preparing things in his civilian life, Hawk Moth sends out a troublesome Akuma on Sunday. 

Lila falls through on a promise to Nathaniel and Marc. The Manga company she told them she could get them an interview with had never heard of her. Reverser and Evillustrator return, working together.

Chapter Text

Week 2 of Suspension.

Adrien and Chloe start to join Marinette for lunch. Marinette gets permission from Nathalie to shadow Adrien’s photoshoots on Wednesdays and Saturdays, as part of an online designing class. (Think a MasterClass.) All of Adrien’s crew keeps Lila away from the bluenette. Anna takes Marinette under her wing. To prevent Gabriel from interfering, Anna takes the young designer as an assistant. Her contract allows her to do so. Maria and Elena capture many snapshots of Marinette with various crew members, including several of her and Adrien. The young designer loves interacting with everyone, except Lila, at the photoshoots. She asks valid questions, offers suggestions, and provides assistance to those who need it. She even manages to impress Nathalie, sharing organizational tips and helping to lighten the P.A.’s load. Vincent loves her perspectives and advice on how to showcase the clothing just right. She even shares tips on how to create a false sense of intimacy between the models. (Think things like lighting, angles, and such) Someone always makes sure to get photos debunking the intimacy as well. These are sent only to Adrien. When mishaps happen, Marinette is there with a solution. Granted, many of the mishaps are Lila’s doing. The liar is constantly trying to create trouble for the young designer, get her fired, or just ruin her reputation.

On Monday, some of the couple photos were leaked. When Lila enters the class after lunch, the girls surround her. Rose gushes. “Is this what you were hinting at all last week?” The bubbly girl flashes the leaked photos. Lila coyly looks away, hiding her lower face with her hand. “Y… Yes. It is.” The liar suddenly faces the girls and gives placating waves with her arms. “But you can’t say anything yet… Adrien is shy… and embarrassed about it.” She gives a knowing smile. “You know how some of his fans can be.”

Alya nods. “We don’t know how Marinette will take this.”

Adrien avoids Lila at school, preferring to hang out with Chloe and Sabrina.

On Tuesday.

When Chloe and Adrien enter the class, Lila is surrounded by all the girls of the class, except Sabrina. The redhead is watching skeptically. Between classes, Adrien checks in with Nino. The DJ informs the blond that Lila had been receiving threatening and demeaning texts from Marinette. A few even tell the brunette to kill herself. Adrien asks why Marinette would do that. Nino simply responds that she is jealous, but he refuses to say why Marinette is jealous. At Lunch, Nino asks Adrien about his feelings for Lila. The blond says that he can’t stand her, but his father is forcing him to work with her. Adrien can see that Nino isn’t fully buying it, so he sticks with Chloe for the rest of the day.

On Wednesday.

Marinette shows up for her first photoshoot. Anna takes the girl under her wing, though Marinette steps outside the tent when Adrien changes clothes. Elena coos over the couple. Maria documents the fluff and cuteness with her camera and phone. When out of the tent, Marinette makes sure that she is never too close to Lila. Adrien has his crew archive everything Marinette does, just to cover her in case Lila tries to pull something. Marinette even manages to earn Nathalie’s respect and support. Lila sabotaged the lighting, some props, and the background, but not all at once. Marinette jury-rigs the lighting. On the second set/outfit, she gives Vincent tips on how to make the photos look more intimate, without the models having to touch or even be that close. She also finds replacement props, ones that work even better than the originals. For the last set/outfit, the background had ‘accidentally’ caught fire. Marinette’s quick thinking helped put out the fire and minimize damage. She then suggests a better, natural background.

Lila gets Akumatized into Volpina, again. She tries to use her illusions to defame Marinette. Ladybug and Chat Noir de-evilize her within fifteen minutes. 

In the afternoon, Marinette reveals her new cheerleading outfit for Adrien’s basketball team. Chloe and Sabrina ask her to make matching ones for them. Since the team doesn’t have a formal cheer team, the trio takes on that responsibility. 

On Thursday.

The teacher gives them a study day during their first class. Lila shares videos of Volpina’s illusions and tries to pass them off as real evidence of Marinette’s bullying during lunch. Chloe and Sabrina bring up what Adrien had told them about the photoshoot and Lila’s Akumatization. The blond heiress even uses the Ladyblog to prove that Lila was Volpina on that day. When Alya points out Marinette’s supposed reason for bullying Lila, Chloe blows up. “Look at the shit I put DC through. I tricked the person she was crushing on, hard at that time, a few years ago, into gifting her a box of spiders. She was injured and traumatized by it. What did she do? Jack and Shit! If DC would bully anyone, I would be me.” Kim has the sense to look sheepish.

Alya. “Marinette is my friend, but even I know how jealous she can get when it comes to a certain someone.”

Adrien enters the class with a Chat-like smirk on his face. “Who? Me? And why would Mari be jelly of Lila over little me?”

Nino tries to place an arm on him. Adrien dodges. Nino looks hurt. “Mec. You don’t know. It’s not our secret to tell.”

Chloe holds back laughter. “AA and DC sitting in a tree…”

Adrien cuts her off, blushing from head to toe. “Chlo! That’s enough. What are we, back in maternelle?” 

Chloe only laughs harder. She turns to Alya. “When was the last time you hung out with DC? Or even spoke to her? Before her wrongful suspension, or maybe that weekend? She’s been out of class for almost two weeks.”

Alya stops to think. All of the class does. None of them can answer. Alya speaks up. “What are we missing?”

Sabrina pulls out her phone and pulls up a picture. It shows Kagami and Marinette fencing. Behind Marinette is Adrien. Their bodies are practically touching. He has one hand on her hip, and the other is on her wrist. The blond is correcting the bluenette’s form while whispering in her ear. “We all know that Adrien and Kagami went on a double date. The second couple being Luka and Marinette. Kagami has been very direct about her romantic interest in Adrien. Yet here, you see the three being very friendly.” She switches and shows three more pictures. One picture shows Marinette and Kagami having juice and lunch at a cafe. The next shows the two asian girls laughing while trying on Cosplay together. The date is the Saturday after Marinette’s first week of suspension. Marinette is Anthy, and Kagami is Utena. In the background, Chloe can be seen dressed as Nanami. Adrien quietly asks Sabrina to send him that one. The final one is Kagami laughing in Marinette’s room. They are sharing macarons and Ramune while watching anime together, arm in arm. The date is Tuesday, two days ago. “Why is Marinette so close with Kagami and not Lila, if it truly is jealousy? And if you want to bring up Lila working with Adrien, well, Marinette is the aide to his wardrobe stylist. I have a copy of the contract that Adrien’s personal stylist sent her, and Nathalie sent yesterday.”

Chloe smirks and gives a holier-than-thou look. “Besides, DC already confessed. Agreste knows of her not-so-little crush.” Said crush blushes a deep red.

The class lets out various shouts. Alix has Kim pay up. Nino stares at Adrien in shock. Alya doesn’t believe it. “Yeah, right. If my girl had confessed, she would have told me.” She loses her confidence, “Right?” Lila starts sobbing, and Alya’s confidence is back, full force. “Wait! What about the photos on social media? And Lila has been telling all of us that Adrien has been crushing on her. She finally gave in and decided to date him, now that his father approves. She even shared pictures of their date and the gifts he gave her.”

Adrien is close to losing his patience. The only reason he is remotely calm is that Plagg is purring in his jacket pocket. “I have NEVER had a crush on Lila! That is all my father’s pushing. And those so-called pictures of proof, they are all staged. We literally have a photoshoot together three times a week. Nino, I know I’ve described my crush many times. What did I say about her? How did I describe her?” He is clearly annoyed.

Nino looks sheepish. “Mec. You said she was courageous, responsible, and clever, with a strong sense of justice and a big heart. You also described her as a kind, creative, and loyal friend.”

Adrien looks unimpressed. “And what about looks? You know I have a type.”

Chloe laughs. “Agreste, you’ve had a type since you were five. All of your crushes have been on Asian women. I remember a six-year-old you saying he would only marry Thuy Trang. Two years later, it’s Lucy Liu. Then, three years later, you wanted to marry Kagome or Kikyo. And don’t think I have forgotten about your crush on Sailor Moon, Sailor Mars, and Sailor Pluto. You like strong, bad-ass women of Asian descent, except in Usagi’s case. Her fiercely loyal attitude, combined with her adorably klutzy nature, made her perfect in your eyes. Sounds like someone we all know?” Adrien groans in embarrassment. The poor teen looks like he is cosplaying as a tomato. Plagg is quietly cackling at his holder’s misfortune.

A thought suddenly hits the model boy. Channeling his inner Chat, he smirks and confronts Lila. “So, Lila. If I recall, some of the pictures you say are proof have me bare-chested. That would mean, if I had any marks on my torso, you would know.”

The liar nods her head vigorously in a yes manner. “Yes, Adrien. I know what mark you speak of. But I didn’t want to mention it… Because of your father and all.”

The sly cat holder chuckles darkly through his smirk. “I permit you to tell everyone here what mark I have and where it is located.”

Lila looks around nervously. “Are… Are you sure? I… I mean, I don’t want you to get in trouble with your father.”

The blond eggs her on. “But Lila, who here is going to tell my father?”

The liar tries to look more confident. “Well, if you say it’s Okay.” Adrien nods for her to go on. “You have a small thumb-sized ladybug on your hip.”

Adrien nearly scoffs. “What kind of ladybug? The actual bug, or a symbol of our local hero? Everyone knows about my celebrity crush on Ladybug, the heroine.”

Lila grows a bit bolder. “An actual ladybug, the bug.”

Adrien just meets her eye as he carefully removes his jacket, giving Plagg a chance to move with it. He then pulls up his T-shirt and shows his bare hips. “Nothing there.” Lila tries to stammer her way out, but Adrien pulls his shirt over his head to reveal his mate mark. The liar tries to pretend that she knew.

Chloe skreeches. “What!? You… You… If your… Then she’s… Are you shitting me? Of course it’s you, you ever-loving dork. We’ll talk about this later. Bee-leive me.”  She mutters something so softly that Adrien can only hear it thanks to his super hearing. “Everyday Ladybug, my ass.”

Putting his shirt and jacket back on, Adrien glances at the heiress sheepishly. He mutters to Plagg. “Purrincess is gonna kill me.” The Kwami only laughs at him. The model stays close to Chloe and Sabrina for the rest of the day.

Chloe can sense his distress. The heiress pulls him aside between classes. “Don’t worry. Your secret is safe with me, for both of you. I understand. Behind the mask, you are free to be who you are at heart and escape your golden cage.”

Adrien rubs the back of his neck sheepishly. “What gave me away? Am I that obvious? ”

With a roll of her eyes, Chloe scoffs. “Only to someone who grew up with you behind closed doors. I could only put the pieces together because I know how you act when no one is watching. That mark on your chest, it can only symbolize one thing.” She gives him a deadpan look. “Besides, the Tournée du Chat Noir poster was one of your mother’s most treasured items. She wanted to reopen one of the namesake’s old cabarets. It was a secret she shared with you, telling tales about it at your bedtime.” The model boy blushes at being called out. Chloe just shakes her head and chuckles. “Given your past interactions, the two of you just learned who the other was behind the mask. I mean, come on, you called her your everyday Ladybug.”  Marinette is not as upset as Adrien expected. She feels that with the upcoming complications, the team needs to be closer than ever. If everyone knows everyone, they can look out for each other in and out of the masks.

Thanks to Lila’s tattling to Gabriel, Adrien is forbidden to go to school on Friday. Instead, he sneaks out and visits the Dupain-Chengs. Plagg and Tikki hide in the kitchen with their holders’ phones and record their antics. The couple is helping the bakery prepare for L'Ascension. There are a few flour fights, some filling and frosting fights, and several cute couple moments. Adrien apologizes for his ‘High Road’ comment. He can now see how much Lila’s lies are hurting people. He sees her manipulation of their class. Marinette forgives him, telling him she understands that he didn’t have the full picture and had limited experience in dealing with people like Lila. She knows he was heavily sheltered up until he started attending school. Besides, she didn’t have to listen to him. They work until lunch, then have a picnic in the park. Adrien wears a light Ladybug-themed hoodie that Marinette made for him. Hers matches as Chat Noir. Sadly, Mr Pidgeon is Akumatized again. After the fight, Chloe and Sabrina join the heroes, skipping afternoon classes. Marinette agrees to let Chloe keep Pollen, as long as she can create a new hero persona. Enter Sugar Quinn. Sabrina gets Trixx and becomes Maple Kit. The quartet meets Kagami for fencing. Marinette participates in the lesson.

Saturday

The photoshoot goes as well as the last one. Lila tries to sabotage Marinette subtly. The bluenette continues to shine.  Nathalie notices how happy the girl makes Adrien and how conniving Lila can be. The secretary ignores Gabriel’s order to get rid of Marinette and instead supports the young designer. Adrien has his crew start releasing their pictures from the photoshoot, including the unedited shots, to counter Gabriel and Lila. Gabriel tries to bury these using his PR team. If anyone mentions them, Lila uses Gabriel’s actions to prove that they are false.

Just before the final set of the shoot, the lighting completely fell. It nearly hits Marinette, Liam, and Anna. Liam manages to push Anna and himself out of the way, but his leg is trapped under the rig. Sensing the danger, Adrien charges and collides with Marinette. The two manage to roll out of the way of danger with only bumps and bruises. Kevin, the guy who handles the lighting, becomes enraged. He spent thirty minutes perfecting the lighting. The rig has natural lighting spots and three green spotlights to create a green screen in certain areas. He gets Akumatized into SFX. He is in a black suit with a full lighting set resting on his shoulders. Over his pants is a skirt flared out and attached to the lighting rig to look like a screen. (Viktor & Rolf Fall 2007, https://www.pinterest.com/pin/345510602663449932/ ) The lights shoot laser beams. White blinds you. Red burns you. Blue freezes you in place. Green erases you.

Ladybug has to call in Sugar Quinn and Maple Kit. The fight lasts twenty minutes before Chat gets hit by a green light meant for Ladybug. He fades away like during Timebreaker. Most of Paris can hear Ladybug’s anguished wail as Chat disappears and Ladybug falls to her knees. Maple Kit uses her illusions to provide a distraction. Quinn tries to comfort their leader. The amount of anger that radiates from Ladybug as she stands frightens Hawk Moth. The spotted heroine has distinct tear tracks on her face and a look that could annihilate everything in her way. Calling on her Lucky Charm, she receives a saber. Saber in hand, she charges the Akumatized person. She moves from an Advance-Lunge into a Flèche. (Utena, when she uses the broken sword to remove the rose from Touga during their second duel.) The Akumatized item is broken with her move. She quickly captures the corrupt butterfly, purifies and releases it, and then calls on her Miraculous Cure, tossing her saber aside. As the magical ladybugs swirl about, Chat materializes back where he vanished. Seeing him, Ladybug runs straight into her partner’s waiting arms, tears streaming. “Don’t you ever do that again! You stupid cat!” She sobs. “I… I felt the pain… through our bond. Then… Then I felt nothing. It felt like... Like I was swallowed… or engulfed in a Void.” Chat tries to comfort her. One hand rests on her hip while the other rubs circles on her back. Full of determination, LB grabs Chat’s bell and pulls him down into a searing kiss. Her lips are full of desperation, and the desire for this to never end. Chat sinks into the kiss, eagerly accepting whatever his Lady is willing to give. One of her arms snakes around his neck. Her opposite hand cups the back of his head, trapping him in the kiss. Reading her intent, the hand Chat has on her hip slides under her bottom, and the one on her back stretches across her, pulling her closer to him. Without breaking the kiss, Chat lifts Ladybug to his level. She instinctively wraps her legs around his waist. The two stay in this position, not breaking the kiss until their Miraculous’ beep. Breathing heavy, gazing deep into each other’s eyes, the partners in everything share a silent conversation. LB clings to Chat like a koala as he retrieves his baton and vaults them off to a private place to continue where they left off. The pair misses their training session with Master Fu.

Adrien doesn’t return home until Sunday night for dinner. Gabriel tries to ground him again, but the boy argues that if he misses too much school, it could cause problems for The Brand. The older man does not approve of the changes in his son. Nathalie reminds Gabriel that Adrien was nearly injured, if not killed, at the last photoshoot. The story has already started spreading on Social Media. It would be beneficial for Adrien to be seen at school in ‘perfect’ condition. Gabriel reluctantly agrees. Secretly, Nathalie is proud of the teen for standing up for himself.

Chapter Text

Week 3 and the final week of suspension

Monday

Adrien is grumpy during the entire photoshoot and refuses to cooperate. Any time Lila gets closer than twelve inches away, Adrien retches like he is about to vomit.  Plagg informs him that this is an unintended side effect of the mate bond. Since Lila is actively trying to seduce him away from his mate and he despises the girl, the bond is making him sick. Instead of heading home for lunch, like he is supposed to, Adrien calls Chloe and has her and Sabrina meet him at Marinette’s. The four enjoy a nice lunch together.

When Chloe, Sabrina, and Adrien arrive at school after lunch, Lila is surrounded by the class. The liar is covered in scratches and bruises, all fake. After much coaxing, she claims they are from Marinette. Chloe places a hand on Adrien’s shoulder before he can do or say something he may regret later. She addresses the Liar. “When did DC supposedly attack you? And don’t say it was during the photoshoot. DC was working with her parents from 5:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Sabrina and I can call her parents to confirm this. Or I can call Nathalie to confirm that DC was nowhere near the photo shoot today.” The heiress scrolls on her phone till she finds the number, and is poised, ready to dial.

Lila knows she would get called out by the secretary. That woman has not liked her ever since she nearly got her and the bodyguard fired. “It… It was during lunch… She… She told me to… to stay away from her Adrien.” The liar emphasizes the word ‘her,’ trying to imply that Marinette claimed ownership over Adrien.

Adrien rolls his eyes and groans. “Lila! How many times must I tell you? We. Are. Not. Dating.” He glances at his classmates. “And if you want to believe HER over me, then consider our friendships over.” The class gasps, unable to perceive that Adrien would go that far.

Chloe claps her hands. “Good performance. Nice makeup. Bad timing.” She opens her phone gallery and pulls up the latest picture. It is Marinette curled up in Adrien’s arms. The two of them are asleep on the bluenette’s living room sofa. Adrien blushes. Sabrina shares her gallery as well. Several pictures were taken at lunch that day. 

The class is unsure who to believe. Someone injured Lila. However, some pictures give Marinette an alibi. Why are Marinette and Chloe getting along? Why would Adrien lie? Could Marinette and Chloe be collaborating to eliminate Lila from the equation? Could they be blackmailing Adrien? What would Lila lie? Nino, Alix, and Nathaniel believe and support Adrien. The rest of the class, well, Lila has no reason to lie, but Marinette can be a little crazy when it comes to Adrien.

Lila tries to get close to Adrien during the next class, but he starts retching again. He states that he may be allergic to Lila’s perfume or something that she is wearing. The teacher sends him to the nurse, who sends him home. Instead of going home, he heads to Marinette’s. The two head to Master Fu’s to see if they can do anything about Adrien retching around Lila. Master Fu gives him a potion that Marinette makes into candies for him. The old man even gives Marinette the recipe so she can make more when needed. They will work on Morning Sickness, which Marinette will likely start to get soon.

Tuesday

Everything is fine up until just before lunch. Lila approaches Adrien with a bunch of printed pictures. “Adrien. I know you think you like Marinette. But I think she is stringing you along, using you.” She speaks loud enough for everyone to hear.

The blond pops one of the candies in his mouth before replying. “What makes you say that, Lila?” His voice is strained but polite.

The liar makes sure everyone is looking as she pouts and holds up the printed pictures. They show Chat visiting Marinette’s balcony. Chat is even hugging her in a few. “It looks like she is dating Chat Noir, one of the saviors of Paris.”

Adrien groans. Thinking to himself, ‘We need to be more careful now.’ Out loud, he speaks nonchalantly. “Yeah. Chat has been visiting her for most of this school year. She fed him after patrol once. And you know what they say about stray cats. Once you feed them, they never leave.” This gets a few laughs from the class. “Besides, everyone knows Chat is head-over-heels in love with Ladybug. And if you ever catch them on a break mid-patrol, they always share a box of DuPain-Cheng pastries. There is a good chance that Marinette supplies them to the heroes.”

Lila looks at the model as if he were a willful child. “Yes. But everyone also knows that Ladybug turns him down. What is keeping him from moving on? We all know what a flirt he is, too. Maybe he is playing the field.”

Adrien growls at the brunette. Chloe and Sabrina both place a hand on his shoulder to prevent him from doing something he shouldn’t. Chloe scoffs. “Hey, Césaire. When was the last time you checked your blog?”

Alya looks a little skeptical. “I uploaded some footage from the fight on Saturday. And on Sunday, I was editing an interview with Lila. She was talking about why Ladybug chose a new fox holder. I had to babysit yesterday, so I planned to jump on today.”

Sabrina flinches. Chloe offers silent comfort. The heiress seems intrigued. “So what did Lila tell you?”

Alya rolls her eyes. “That Rena has been working hard and deserves a better, more powerful Miraculous. She just hasn’t had the time to deliver it, yet.”

Adrien shakes his head and laughs. “And you believe that? Looks like you missed your big scoop then.” Alya looks confused. So Adrien pulls up her blog. The top video is one sent in by a subscriber. It shows Ladybug running to Chat. She is obviously upset, and Chat tries to comfort her. It goes on to show LB pulling Chat into a heated kiss. That whole scene was captured and uploaded, from Ladybug running to Chat, to the kiss, to them vaulting away. 

Alya lets out the loudest fan girl squee ever. “LadyNoir is canon. It’s finally official. Ladybug can’t deny it after this. LadyNoir are a couple!!!!!!” She fangirls for a few more minutes. “How did I miss this? Lila, why didn’t you say anything? As Ladybug’s bestie, she would have told you.”

Lila looks like a deer caught in the headlights. “I, umm. She said she wasn’t ready to go public yet… She… She doesn’t want Hawk Moth to know they are together.”

Chloe counters. “But if you scroll back, for the last two weeks, Ladybug has been getting pretty cozy with Chat. She was even caught flirting back during patrol several times.”

Lila gains a touch of conviction. “Well, she told me that Saturday was just a slip-up. She was so caught up in her emotions after nearly losing Chat that she just couldn’t hold back. But that doesn’t mean Chat can’t be playing the field.”

This time, Alix scoffs. “We all know Chat flirts. But he mainly directs it at Ladybug. Everyone has seen him profess his undying love to his partner.” Pause. “I remember not too long ago, when I helped fight Timetagger, Chat was very eager to know if he and Ladybug were a couple in the future. Not ot mention, not too long ago, Tom DuPain was Akumatized into Weredad. The reason was that Chat turned down Marinette’s affections. The whole thing was a huge misunderstanding. We all know how tongue-tied Marinette can get.” She walks over to Adrien and bumps shoulders with him. In a voice only he can hear thanks to his super hearing, “Congrates, Kitten.” 

He just grins at her and whispers. “Thanks, Cottontail.” 

Lila appears to be near tears. “A…Alix. You… You don’t believe me? Are you calling me a liar? I thought we were friends.” 

Alix looks unimpressed. “I said no such thing. You are twisting my words. And I don’t appreciate it. I am simply pointing out facts. Believe what you want.” She walks off towards the cafeteria.

Looking at his classmates, Adrien decides it's been enough. “As much as I would love to continue this conversation, I have to head home for lunch. Father’s orders.”

Chloe ushers him away. “I’ve already cleared it with Nathalie. You’re having lunch with me. Sabrina, come on. We have a double date to get to.”

Sabrina brightens up. “Okay, Chloe. I’m coming.” The trio heads out to Marinette’s. The bluenette is waiting for them with a full meal on the table.

Wednesday

Gabriel shows up for this shoot. Adrien grumbles in his tent. Marinette tries to comfort him and slides a small bag of candies to him. When Vincent gives directions for the staged intimacy, as Marinette taught him, Gabriel goes off, “What is this?! I did NOT ask for this… This, whatever it is. I want an actual connection. I want the real thing. The fans need to believe this. Lila and Adrien are the face of The Brand. They need to be together, not just look the part.”

Marinette rolls her eyes so hard she can see the back of her head.  Her posture and tone are placating, as if she is speaking to a petulant toddler throwing a tantrum. “Mr Agreste, a forced melon is never sweet.” Nathalie appears distressed as she moves to intercept/defend the young designer. The young girl motions to the secretary that she has this handled. With a pacifying demeanor and false sweetness, “Fine, Mr Agreste. We shall do it your way and mine. I will show you what I mean, since you cannot seem to comprehend.” 

Adrien is trying to hide his amusement. Nathalie seems to be mortified and fearful for the young woman.  Gabriel is dismissive, aghast, and a touch impressed with the girl's audacity. Paying no mind to her surroundings, the young designer takes the lead. “Elena, Maria, Anna. Meet me in the tent with the backup outfit and your gear. Liam, document all of this. Do not touch up any of the shots. Vincent, proceed first with Mr Agreste’s instruction, then follow through with mine. By the time you are done, I’ll be ready.” And with that, she saunters back to Adrien’s changing tent.

Adrien beams with pride, thinking, ‘That’s my girl.’ Plagg and Tikki are hiding, enjoying the show. Nathalie tries to hide her apprehension. Vincent gives the instruction. As soon as Lila gets into position, close to Adrien, the blond model starts retching. He pops one of the candies into his mouth, and the retching stops.

Gabriel takes notice. He barks at his son. “Adrien! What is wrong with you?! Why are you doing that? What is that you just ate?”

Adrien doesn’t bother hiding his annoyance. “Sorry, Father. Something about Lila makes me nauseous. I can’t help it. It’s a natural reaction. As for what I ate, it was just a piece of candied ginger to settle my stomach. Now, can we please get this over with?” He restores his pose for the photos, striving to hide his revulsion. The models rotate through the poses Gabriel requested, then with the modifications Marinette had suggested. By the end of the set, Marinette exited the tent. She was dressed in an outfit identical to the one Lila wore. Her hair and makeup were expertly done, highlighting her natural beauty. Adrien’s jaw all but hits the floor as his heart just about beats out of his chest, and stars fill his eyes. Under his breath, he mutters. “Damn.” He clears his throat. “Princess, you look… You look amazing, like a goddess who has fallen to Earth, from Heaven above.” He slowly walks towards her, completely ignoring and forgetting Lila. Taking the bluenette’s hand, he leads her to the stage. A faint blush tints the apples of the cheeks of both teens. Vincent gives them minimal directions as the couple flows through the required poses. Starting with the staged intimacy, then the actual intimacy. The final pose is a near kiss, lips mere millimeters apart. Lost in each other’s eyes, the outside world fades for the lovers. After a few breaths, Marinette grazes her lips along Adrien’s. As she pulls back, Adrien’s lips follow, seeking more. Just before the boy can deepen the kiss, Gabriel clears his throat, bringing the pair back to reality. The teens turn away as the tips of their ears turn a bright red from full-body blushing.

 Marinette is the first to pull herself together. She walks over to Liam and his computer setup. “Liam, I want a two-by-two grid of the unedited shots. The true beside the staged for each pose for each girl. Lila first, then mine. Then pull up a side-by-side comparison of all shots of the same pose. I want to see the shots of Lila and me in the same poses with Adrien, both true and staged, so that Mr Agreste can differentiate between the four.”

After thirty minutes, comparing all the photos taken, Gabriel has to concede. “I can see your point, Mlle DuPain-Cheng.” Pause. “By the way, where did you get that outfit?”

Marinette gives the elder designer a polite smile. “Oh, this?” She twirls to show off what she is wearing. “It’s the backup you sent in case something happened to the original, since recently several shoot outfits seem to get damaged. I just tailored it to fit me rather than Rossi during her set.”

Gabriel mutters under his breath, hoping not to be heard. “Impressive.” He clears his throat. “Fine. I can see your sentiments… And agree. You may continue to do things your way. However, I request that for the rest of this shoot, both you and Mlle Rossi participate. Not together, of course. I want shots of you and my son to compare with shots of Rossi and my son, after editing.”

Marinette gives a respectful bow. “Of course, Mr Agreste.” He gives the order to continue and takes his leave. Passing by Nathalie, he whispers to her. “Keep an eye on both girls. I may have underestimated Mlle DuPain-Cheng. This rivalry may be the key to Akumatizing DuPain-Cheng and us getting the Miraculous we need.” He enters the car, but continues the conversation through the window.

Nathalie looks uncertain. “But, Sir. What about your son? I know you can see… and feel the love he has for the girl.”

Gabriel waves off her concerns. “Once we make the Wish, none of this will matter.” After a brief pause, “Maybe I can find her after the wish. She would make a decent protegee after some conditioning.” He shuts the car window and motions for the driver to leave.

Back in Adrien’s dressing tent, Marinette, Adrien, and his crew celebrate. Adrien twirls his girlfriend around a few times. “That was so impressive, Princess. You were amazing.”

Anna chuckles. “Yeah, I think you may have impressed Mr Agreste. And that is no small feat.”

Maria pipes up. “Damn, girl. You’ve got guts. I can see why our boy likes you. You’re good for him.”

Not to be left out, Elena decides to ask the question that the entire crew has been wondering. “So, have you two…” She gestures with her hands. “Started on the deed? I know it’s too early to know anything for certain, but our boy here needs the big E. But for that, he would need to use his D.”  Marinette squeals like a steam engine, while Adrien chokes on air, both turning as red as a strawberry from head to toe.

Anna smacks her girlfriend upside the back of her head. “Elena! Don’t embarrass the kids like that.” She does give a sly smile. “Golden boy did say to wait about a month and a half. So we will wait and see.” 

During the following set, Lila damages Marinette’s outfit. The young designer makes repairs and modifications, then continues posing for the photos. Everyone says she improved on the original design, including Nathalie. The secretary texts Gabriel to inform him.  She includes a photo.

~Sir. Your Muse damaged your design. Mlle DuPain-Cheng repaired it.~

During the final set, after getting her photos taken with Adrien, Lila ‘accidentally’ breaks the backdrop. Marinette repairs it with slight improvements.

At basketball practice, Kagami arrives. Thanks to Marinette, the fencer now has permission to attend practices and join the other girls in cheering. Marinette has a cheer costume ready for the fencer girl. Chloe and Kagami are the bases. Marinette is the flyer. And Sabrina and one of the player’s boyfriends are the spotters. Sabrina has her phone on a stand, recording their routine for Kagami to study and practice in her limited free time. 

There is an Akuma after practice. Two of the players get into a spat over a girl.

Lila cries to the girls in the class at an after-class hangout. She shows more false bullying and death threat texts from Marinette. She uses the photos from earlier that day, including the near kiss, as proof that Marinette is trying to seduce Adrien away from her.

Thursday

Lila is at it again. She has footage of Chat ‘flirting’ with Marinette from the day before. Chat couldn’t help but call attention to Marinette’s cheer uniforms and the fact that she created a cheer squad all by herself. Adrien was able to slip away from the gym first and use his suit to spirit Marinette away so she could transform.

Adrien counters. “So he whisked her to safety after promoting her cheer squad and uniforms. She created all of it, alone. The players adore her for it. It improves our morale, especially at games. Princess has been trying to recruit more members to join the basketball cheer team.”

Lila wines. “But Ladybug told me that she and Chat are only fake-dating, for the sake of Paris. Them being in a relationship improves morale. Ladybug also told me that Chat is a bit of a player, that’s why she was always turning him down.”

Sabrina smiles. “I was near the bakery last night, since Chloe had a craving. I captured this.” She sends a video for Markov to project. “Markov, could you verify this video, please?”

The AI companion scans it. “Affermative. This video is one-hundred-percent authentic. No modifications detected.” He plays it.

You see Ladybug and Chat Noir land on Marinette’s balcony. Chat knocks on the skylight. It opens, and Marinette pops through. She hugs Chat and fist bumps Ladybug. “Chat. Ladybug. What can I do for you?” She holds out a large bag of pastries. “By the way, these are for you. It’s your usual, and a few extras. I added extra strawberry macarons for Tikki and a dozen camembert danishes for Plagg.” 

Ladybug takes the bag, smiling. “Thank you, little Mouse.” She glances at Chat. “We would like your help tonight. I am afraid I can’t patrol as I have something more pressing to do. But I don’t want my Kitty to be lonely.” She reaches out and scratches behind one of Chat’s faux cat ears. “I know I said I couldn’t give you this again, but certain teammates have proven to be unreliable in their civilian lives. This got me thinking. You only revealed yourself to Chat and me. So, since Chat and I aren’t  keeping any secrets, you joining the team won’t be a problem anymore.” She hands a small box to the young designer.

Marinette opens the box. “Mullo! I missed you.” She nuzzles something invisible in her hand.

Chat smiles. “We are hoping to keep you in reserve, as a hidden reconnaissance. And maybe joining me on patrol nights when M’Lady can’t make it.”

Ladybug places a hand on Marinette’s shoulder. “Chat and I don’t have ANY civilian friends, but if we did, it would be you. You are the only person I trust to watch over my Kitty while I am away. I know his heart is mine, and mine is his.”

Chat takes LB’s free hand, raises it, and kisses her knuckles. He then looks at Marinette. “Purrincess. I must thank you for feeding this stray and providing me a warm place to crash when I needed to get away. I know you and that model boy are dating now. I wish you both the best. And I hope we can continue our friendship.”

Marinette blushes. “Of course, Chat. You are a dear friend to me. Thank you for your part in getting Adrien and me together. You were the best wingman.”

Ladybug laughs. “Well, I’ll leave you two to patrol tonight. I am running late for an important meeting.” She tosses her yo-yo out and zips away.

Chat bows to Marinette. “Shall we, little Mouse?”

Marinette laughs. “Mullo. Let’s get squeaky.” She transforms, but not into Multimouse. She has a new costume, but keeps the space buns. Using her jumprope, she imitates Ladybug and swings away. “Cat-ch me if you can, Kitty Cat.”

Chat laughs as he vaults after her. “I’ll get you, Mini Mousette.”

End video.

The class is stunned and silent. Lila looks like a deer caught in the headlights. Before anything else can be said or done, class is called into session. Lila plots and plans her next move throughout the day. After some backtracking and correcting lies, most of the class thinks there is some form of miscommunication or a misunderstanding going on.

Friday

When Adrien arrives at school, Lila is surrounded by the class, again. Only this time, Alix leans against the doorframe, waiting for him. “Figured you would want to know. Lila is trying to claim that Marinette seduced you away from her, either with blackmail, threats, or something else. Half the class thinks you’re cheating scum. The other half think Marinette is a slut.” Chloe and Sabrina are running late.

Adrien growls along with Plagg. Both are protective of their Bug. Alya is the first to notice the blond. “Adrien Agreste! How could you? I know Marinette confessed, but you are and have been dating Lila.” The blond model goes to refute her, but she cuts him off. “I have seen the pictures, the love notes, the texts, and the gifts, so don’t even try to deny it.” Nino stands by, looking slightly frightened and sheepish at the same time. His eyes widen as he notices his best bro’s hand crackling with black energy.

Before the undercover hero does something he’ll regret, Chloe appears and places a calming hand on his shoulder. She leans in and whispers in his ear. “Calm down. You’ll attract an Akuma. I don’t think your Lady wants to fight you. And by the way, look at your hand.”

Adrien glances down to see his power manifesting. This is enough of a shock to snap him back. He closes his eyes, inhales deeply, holds it, and counts to ten before releasing. “Alya. Please show me this so-called proof.” He scoffs. “Or maybe not. It’s not like you will listen to me anyway. I can tell you the sky is blue, but if Lila says it’s green, then you will believe it’s green.”

The blogger is taken aback. “A… Adrien? You don’t… What do you mean by that?”

From behind him, Chloe scoffs. “For the past three weeks, Agreste has been denying any relationship with Lila. He has told you countless times that he does NOT see her in a romantic way. Yet, you keep trying to ship them, worse than you did with LadyNoir.”

Alya looks appalled. “But… But… Proof. Lila has proof.”

Chloe sneers. “And I have shown you proof. Adrien has shown you proof. Who do you believe more, Adrien or Lila? Who has reason to lie? And don’t try to claim Adrien because of his father. Gabriel is the one promoting the Lila pics AND repressing the ones with DC.” She ushers Adrien over to her seat. Throwing a look at Sabrina, she apologizes. “Sorry, Brina. Adrien needs me right now.”

Sabrina smiles. “I understand, Chloe. It made me so mad when people would talk badly about you. We’ll go to see Nette at lunch. Double date?” Both blonds smile and nod at her. The redhead understands and is excited. She messages Marinette to give her a heads-up.

Before lunch begins, Nino seeks out Adrien. “Hey, Mec. Can we talk quickly?” 

Adrien gives his model smile, “Sure.” He motions for Chloe and Sabrina to go ahead, assuring them that he’ll catch up. Looking back at Nino, “So what did you want to talk about?”

The DJ fidgets with his hands nervously, “What is really going on between you, Lila, and Marinette?”

Adrien rolls his eyes. “Do you want the truth? Will you believe me if I say something you don’t want to hear?” The DJ flinches before nodding, yeah. “Lila is a liar. Marinette hates liars. Lila is jealous of Marinette, NOT the other way around. My fa… Gabriel wants me to date Lila for the Brand image, hence all these photoshoots. I love Marinette. I am dating her, not Lila. Nathalie is on mine and Marinette’s side.” He pulls out his burner phone and opens the gallery, handing it to Nino.

Nino looks through the photos. “Wow. So Marinette did confess to you. Chloe was right?” He looks at his friend, tears welling up in his eyes. “You are the one leaking the pics of you and Marinette?”

Adrien nods. “Yeah, Chloe was right. All of Chloe and Sabrina’s proof is real. All of Lila’s is false and or staged. These are the truth.”

Nino hugs the model. “I’m sorry, Mec.”

Adrien pats him on the back. “You can see it now. I accept your apology, but I’m not sure if I’m ready to forgive you… yet. You allowed Lila to harass me. When I asked for help, you looked away. You refused to listen to or believe me. And that hurt. Now, if you will excuse me, I have a lunch date to get to.”

Unbeknownst to the two blonds, Lila had called her court into session during lunch. The whole class, minus Adrien, Chloe, Sabrina, and of course, Marinette, has been gathered together by Lila. Nino joins just before the performance. Lila has been sobbing falsely and portraying a worried friend. “I… I think I know what is wrong with Adrien.” She dabs her non-existent tears. “I have been talking with Alya lately… About Marinette.” The liar gives a dramatic pause. “It took some coaxing to get all the details. I need your help getting through to Adrien. He… He doesn’t want to believe me.” “She lets out more dramatic fake sobs. “Marinette has been stalking him. Alya told me about all of Marinette’s hare-brained schemes to confess to Adrien. She even stole Adrien’s phone before. Then there was the time she worked with Chloe to sabotage his time with Kagami at the Ladybug and Chat Noir movie premiere. I spoke with several of his fencing buddies and basketball teammates, and Marinette was at every meeting for both during the last two and a half years.” She pauses, acting as if she doesn’t want to continue. “I have even seen her at several photoshoots in the past.” The liar pulls out her ‘incriminating’ proof, statements from teammates, and surveillance photos from photo shoots with the dates altered. “I have confirmed with Alya. She even has his full schedule for the next year and a shrine dedicated to him in her closet. We are talking about hundreds of pictures, most of them taken without his knowledge.” Uping her act, she closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. When she opens her eyes again, she scans her classmates with a look of a perfect mixture of pain, regret, and resolve. Someone needs to give his girl an Oscar. “I think Marinette is either blackmailing Adrien, threatening him, or has him brainwashed. He's obviously not used to healthy relationships and can’t see her toxic personality. Look at his relationship with his father. I know Gabriel is trying to be better.” She gives a dramatic pause. “May… Maybe, she… She is using her body to keep him under thumb.” No one knows what to say about this. 

When Adrien returns from the lunch break, everyone tries to coddle him. All the new concerns and casual touches start to make him feel uncomfortable. Chloe comes to his rescue and begins to chase everyone away.

Saturday

Gabriel informs everyone at the photo shoot that Monday’s shoot will be the last one until Fashion Week in June.  During the shoot, Gabriel offers subtle praise to Marinette, complimenting her alterations, mentioning how she could be an acceptable design successor to him, how natural she looks next to Adrien, and how good Adrien looks next to her, among other things. All the while giving back-handed compliments to Lila, pointing out her diva-ness, mentioning how uncomfortable Adrien looks next to her, pointing out the small white lies she tells the crew, and anything else he can think of to get under her skin. Nathalie can tell that he is riling up Lila on purpose. By the end of the shoot, the Italian is practically vibrating with anger. With a hidden smirk, Gabriel slips into his car, transforms, and releases the prepared Akuma from his cane. It flutters directly to Lila, who eagerly accepts it.

Lila becomes Summoner Magica. She is in a black bodysuit from head to toes. Over the bodysuit is a trenchcoat that appears to be made of shattered black glass. Her facial hood mirrors the trenchcoat. (Robert Wun Trinity Coat. https://www.instagram.com/p/C3ZDBAONMkl/?img_index=5 ) The Akumatized girl is thrilled with her power. “I am Summoner Magica. You will all bow before me. Summon Magic Jewel Wasps.” Thousands of shimmering, magical wasps appear. “Now, my babies, go and sting everyone. Make them my mindless zombies.”

In the dressing tent, Adrien and Marinette share a look and a mental two-word conversation, ‘ Run. Transform.’ Both bolt out the back, their Kwamis already by their sides. Anna, Elene, and Maria protect them as the teens run. Anna shouts over her shoulder at them. “Go get help!”

Once in an alley, Marinette speaks. “We may need back-up. It’s a good thing I planned on giving Kagami and Luka their Miraculouses permanently. We don’t have time to wait for them.” She texts Chloe before pulling out the Dragon necklace and the Snake bracelet. Adrien nods and calls on his transformation before he accepts the Dragon necklace. Marinette calls on her transformation, unifying Tikki and Sass.

Meanwhile, Lila, or Summoner as she is now called, continues on her mission. “Minions, bring me Adrien Agreste and Marinette DuPain-Cheng. I want them to kneel at my feet.”  A butterfly mask flashes on her face. “Of course, Hawk Moth.” The villain gives a maniacal grin. “I summon forth the current Guardian of the Miraculous.” In a sudden flash, Master Fu is standing before the villainess. Master Fu is transformed into Jade Turtle and is surrounded by wasps. He calls on his Shell-ture. Summoner glares. “Damn you. Where is the Miracle Box?”

Jade Turtle looks on defiantly. “I will not tell you or your Master.”

Summoner sneers at the old hero. “I have no Master. I am a partner. Now, if you do not obey me, you will suffer.” An idea forms in her head. “I summon forth all Miraculous holders and former Akumas.” Within a few minutes, Alya, Nino, Luka, Kagami, and Max stand before Summoner. Many old Akumas stand behind them. Lady Snake and Dragon Noir arrive just in time to witness their friends transform into their Akuma forms.  

The fight lasts two hours. Lady Snake uses Second Chance 8765 times.  Adrien switches between Chat Noir, Haku, and Dragon Noir multiple times. Plagg recharged five times, while Longg recharged four times. Tikki recharges six times, one more than Sass. 

After purifying the Akuma, Ladybug runs into an alley and promptly vomits. Chat follows her, completely ignoring Lila. “M’Lady. What’s wrong?”

Sass floats out, looking at the cat hero somberly. “Ssshe ussed my power too many timesss. The resssetsss aged the unborn.”

A shocked Chat and Ladybug stare at the snake Kwami. The cat holder asks first. “How many times? How long?”

Sass calculates the answer. “8765 timesss, or roughly a month.”

A pale Ladybug de-transforms and looks at Tikki. The red Kwami confirms what Sass said. Marinette nearly faints, but Chat catches her. He quickly drops his transformation. “Princess, we can handle this. It’ll be okay. It’s only a month. It could have been worse. Remember how many times I tried as Aspik?” This gets a chuckle from the girl. She places a hand over her abdomen, and Adrien places a hand over hers. The lovers share a gentle kiss before making their way back to the dressing tent, only to find out the shoot is canceled.

Sunday is spent cuddling and reassuring each other. A small amount of planning is also made. Adrien hands over the money he has been squirreling away. It’s roughly two to three hundred euros every few days, which he managed to sneak out from his modeling account. The teen has been preparing for this for the last five months.

Chapter Text

Monday

Gabriel informs Adrien that if he does not play nice and shower Lila with courting gifts in public, he (Adrien) will be pulled from school and shipped off to a private boarding school. The elder man even flashes the completed paperwork, ready to submit.

Adrien, Marinette, and Lila have their final photoshoot. Lila makes it Hell for Marinette, trying every trick in the book to disgrace and antagonize the bluenette. Marinette attempts to hide her morning sickness with the assistance of Adrien’s crew. Chloe and Sabrina have a lunch date, so only Kagami joins Adrien and Marinette. The couple shares their good news with her and passes her Longg. Kagami is thrilled to be reunited with her Kwami and is not surprised by the reveal. “It just makes sense,” she says. At school during lunch, Lila begins spreading the rumor that Marinette is trying to baby-trap Adrien. After Lunch, in front of the whole school, Adrien presents Lila with a bouquet of Tansies. “Father said I should show you how I feel. These flowers represent my feelings purrfectly.” Chloe holds back her laughter. Marinette is shocked speechless. Sabrina snickers.

Marinette processes the school transfer paperwork for her and Adrien, with Chloe’s help. The two only make it to the E&SS class. Nino tries to run an interception between Lila and Adrien, but most of the class makes it near impossible. Alya and the girls’ attempts to keep Adrien away from Marinette and with Lila make all of her Operation Adrienette attempts look like a child’s game. Kim absconds with Adrien’s books, so he has to share. Nino tries to share his, but Alya pushes Lila towards the blond, preventing her DJ boyfriend from interfering in her matchmaking.  On the way to HGGSP, Rose and Mylene ‘accidentally’ tie Lila to Adrien with an entire ball of eco-yarn. During class, partners are chosen for an in-class study session. The majority of the class pairs up, trying to pair Lila with Adrien. Sabrina approaches him first. Alix pairs with Nathaniel, but suggests that Lila be paired with Max and Kim. Afterall, Max has Markov to help. The teacher agrees. Other schemes are enacted as well. By the E&SS class, Adrien is a ball of anxiety, and Plagg is ready to Cataclysm the class. As soon as Adrien sees Marinette, he runs directly into her arms. “Princess!”

The girl hugs him back, whispering in his ear. “Chaton, what’s wrong?” The blond boy nuzzles into her neck, recounting all of the schemes he had to endure. “My poor Prince.” She rubs his back to soothe him. “I’m here now.”

The girls, minus Alix, comfort a simpering Lila. “See… I told you she has him brainwashed or something.”

In the middle of the class, Marinette’s morning sickness hits. She is sitting beside Adrien, with Chloe and Sabrina in front of her. Adrien offers to take her to the washroom, but the teacher reminds him that he is a male and thus not allowed into the ladies' room. Chloe reassures her childhood friend that she’ll take care of his Princess. 

Once in the washroom, Chloe finally asks. “Okay, Bug. How far along? It’s the cat’s right?”

After vomiting and cleaning herself up, Marinette answers. “Gestation, roughly seven weeks. Four of which came from Second Chance. I shouldn’t be this far along. Stupid magic.”

Chloe chuckles. “So this is how he plans to get emancipated. Let me guess, Miraculous conception? You'd better invite me to the union.”

Marinette pulls out a ginger candy and pops it into her mouth. “Of course, Queenie. Correct on all accounts. Adrien has plans for City Hall.” She washes up. “Let’s head back to class.”

Back in the classroom, Alya and Kim are trying to get Adrien to sit next to Lila. The liar got up to go and sit next to the blond, but Sabrina intercepted her and sat beside him first. Adrien gives her a grateful look. The teacher asks everyone to sit back down. Alya tries to argue that Adrien is being coerced into sitting with Marinette. Adrien argues back that Lila makes him uncomfortable by invading his personal space and touching him inappropriately. Alya and Lila argue back, saying that he is comfortable with Lila, showing the pictures from the photoshoots. The female duo claims that Marinette is the one who truly makes the boy uncomfortable. Chloe and Marinette return to catch this. The teacher is on the fence. Adrien defends Marinette, saying that she is one of the few who see him as a person, not just a model, a stepping stone, a prize, or a trophy. He loves Marinette, not Lila. Sabrina stands next to him, agreeing and providing her own proof. The teacher looks at Lila, who appears to be a sobbing mess, pitiful and timorous. Then, Marinette looks concerned and apprehensive. Her (Marinette’s) eyes were on the blond boy, as if assessing damage. Adrien catches her eye, and a touch of relief rolls over him. Mrs. D'Amboise remembers the day Marinette was suspended, when Ms. Bustier broke proper protocol and called the young girl out in front of the class. The E&SS teacher orders Lila and Alya to return to their seats. Then for Marinette, Adrien, Chloe, and Sabrina to take theirs.

After class, Alya has Kim and Ivan hold Adrien back so she can speak to him. Max, Juleka, Nathaniel, Nino, and Alix leave right before Chloe, Sabrina, and Marinette. Kim offers to return Adrien’s books, so the blond stays behind. Mylene, Rose, and Lila block Sabrina, Chloe, and Marinette from reentering the room. Ivan blocks Adrien’s view of the girls. As the blond is ready to leave, Alya speaks up. “Hey, Sunshine. Can we talk?”

Adrien holds back his growl. He still hasn’t forgiven the ombre-haired girl. “Don’t call me that. And what do you want, Alya? Ready to admit Lila isn’t as perfect as you think?”

Alya looks affronted. “Adrien. There is nothing wrong with Lila. She is a kind, generous girl.”

Adrien scoffs. “If you believe that, then I have some oceanfront property to sell you in Arizona.”

Alya looks confused. “What does that mean?” She shakes her head. “Nevermind. I just want you to know that I am on your side. I know what Marinette is doing.” Adrien raises an eyebrow at this, trying not to look too disgusted. Alya moves to touch his forearm, but he flinches and steps back. “Marinette used to be my friend, but then Lila opened up my eyes. Marinette has been bullying and threatening Lila, all to get closer to you. She used to stalk you. She had your whole schedule for at least the following two years. She even stole your phone once. She… She was obsessive. Marinette knew she would never be able to take on Kagami or Chloe.” Alya looks away, almost ashamed. “But, I’ve seen the texts, letters, and even emails. Marinette is trying to baby-trap you and use you to get ahead in her career. You are too kind-hearted and naive to see. I can’t believe I fell for her tricks and even helped her in the past.”

Adrine sneers as he tries to push past the wannabe reporter. “If that is all you have to say, then please get out of my sight. Lila is nothing more than a liar and a spy for my fa… For Gabriel. He wants to use her to control me. And if you are too blind to see it, then we have nothing more to say.” Standing in front of Ivan, he looks over his shoulder. “As I said before, you would rather listen to Lila than me, or even the girl you used to claim was your BFF, all because of the pretty tales and stories Lila spews.” He gives her a sympathetic look. “I hope you are happy with all the views Lila has brought to your blog. And I’m sorry for whatever comes next.” Using a fraction of the strength he gets for being the Black Cat Holder, Adrien shoulders past Ivan, nearly knocking the gentle giant over. Once in front of Lila and the other two, he growls, “Move.” Rose and Mylene are startled by the ice in his voice and step aside. Lila tries to latch onto his arm, only for him to dodge, causing Lila to fall flat on her face.

Alya, Mylene, Rose, Ivan, and Kim all move to console Lila. Later, the liar calls Gabriel to inform him of his son’s wrongdoings. 

Gabriel lectures Adrien for not being charming enough. He is supposed to be publicly courting Lila, or it’s a private boarding school abroad. 

Tuesday.

Adrien smiles at Lila and hands her a large bouquet. Four Daffodils. Four Petunias. Four yellow Carnations. Four yellow Hyacinths. “I hope these show how I feel for you.” He leans in and whispers in her ear. “Tattle to Gabriel again, and I’ll go to your mom at the embassy. I bet she would love to speak with Principal Damocles.” The liar scowls for a moment before schooling her looks. Adrien makes his way to his seat next to Marinette, who is waiting and watching, eyes wide.

The bluenette playfully jabs him with her elbow. “You sly cat. I see what you are doing.”

He slides a rose gold bracelet onto her wrist. “For you, Princess.” She blushes as Chloe and Sabrina gush. 

Chloe. “Is that a Cartier Love Bracelet?!” Adrien just smirks and nods in affirmation.

Marinette moves to take it off. “Adrien. This is too much.”

Adrien holds her hand, preventing her from removing the bracelet. “I want you to have it, Princess. It was my mother's. She told me to give it to my future bride.” He raised her hand and kissed her knuckles. The teacher calls the class to attention and begins her lesson.

In the front, Lila sits next to Alya, passing notes. Neither girl noticed what happened in the back of the classroom.

  **I told you he loves me. Look at the flowers. She must have some dirt on him or something.

  **Could she be threatening him? Going to the media, or accusing him of rape, or drugging him, maybe hypnosis…

  ^^easy girl. I’ll get to the bottom of it.

  **I trust you, Alya.

After lunch, Lila is crying in Alya, Rose, and Mylene’s arms. Someone vandalized her locker. It is spray-painted with a giant red letter ‘A’, and the word LIAR is written in black. The inside was filled with trash and bugs. Luckily, Lila had all her books and important stuff with her. But ‘her’ sketchbook was ruined. No one noticed that the sketchbook was pink and had MDC printed on the front in gold.

Marinette was searching everywhere for her sketchbook. Granted, she had all the designs backed up at home, but the book was special because Kagami had given it to her for her birthday last year. Sabrina is the one to point out where it went. When she pointed it out to the rest of the class, they insisted that it was proof that Marinette was the one who trashed and vandalized Lila’s locker. They said that the sketchbook was left inside and was accidentally destroyed. This didn’t sit well with Nathaniel. He remembered when Kagami gave it to the designer and how much she loved and cherished it. Besides, no artist would do something like this. Later, he speaks with Alix in the art room. The skater informs him that she believes Adrien and Marinette. Marc points out the meanings behind the flowers. Tansies mean war or sickness. Daffodils mean vanity or pride. Petunias mean deep resentment. Yellow carnations mean rejection or disdain. Yellow hyacinths mean jealousy or disappointment. Nathaniel asks Marc how he knows about the flowers. He responds that Lila was bragging and showing them off during lunch, and he (Marc) loves looking up the symbolism of flowers for his writing.

During Life & Earth Sciences, Nathaniel gets Akumatized. As Evillustrator, he tries to force Lila to tell the truth. He is equally pissed at the class. Chat is a little rough when he shoves Lila out of harm’s way. Maple Kit uses her Mirage to cover the class. LB wraps Lila up with her yo-yo and uses her as bait to lure the possessed victim away from the rest of the class. Quinn stings the sausage-haired girl to shut her up. None of the heroes gives Lila a lift back to the school, so the brunette misses her next class. Alya asks why. Lila says LB did it just in case another Akuma shows up.

Wednesday

Lila has to sit out for PE. One of her ailments is acting up. Adrien doesn’t have flowers this day. Instead, he offers Lila a thermos of Green Tea and shares an Asian pear. Marinette and Chloe almost trip as they fall into a fit of giggles while running laps.

During Art class, Lila bumps into Marinette. The bluenette was carrying three open cups of paint from her easel. One ends up slashing Lila, but the other two spill all over Marinette. In a saccharine sweet voice, “Oh, Marinette. I know you didn’t mean to bump into me and ruin my new limited edition, one-of-a-kind Gabriel Brand shirt.”

Marinette looks down at her own clothes to compare. “Lila, I am sorry. I wasn’t paying attention to my surroundings. I was too busy trying not to spill the paint. But I think most of it got on me.”

Marinette attempts to move around Lila and head to put the paint away. Alya steps in front of her. “Come on, girl. You just dumped paint on Lila, and that is all you have to say?”

Marinette glances at her former BFF. “Alya, what more do you want me to say? She has a small streak on her shirt. My pants, shirt, and jacket are now all covered in paint.” The bluenette looks down. “It even splattered some on my shoes.” She gives an exasperated sigh. “These were my favorite flats, too.”

Lila just has to stir the pot. “Please, don’t fight because of me. I know my shirt was a gift from Gabriel. It isn’t even available for sale yet. I’m sure Marinette didn’t mean to bump into me.”

Alya. “Marinette. We all know you didn’t do it on purpose, but maybe you should make Lila a new outfit to say sorry.”

Adrien comes to his Lady’s defense. “Alya. Lila wasn’t watching where she was going, either, unless Lila intended to bump into Marinette.”

Lila whines. “Adrien. How can you say that?”

Alya, “Yeah, Sunshine. We all know Lila didn’t mean it. Why are you defending Marinette? You should be defending your girlfriend, Lila.”

Adrien lets out a low hiss. “For the umteenth time, I. Am. Not. Dating. Lila.” He sucks in a breath. “And don’t call me Sunshine. You have lost the right to give me a nickname.”

The teacher notices and steps in. “Alright, Ladies. Why don’t you go and change?” 

Marinette mutters, “Fine.” As she goes to return the paint, she mentally sends, ‘thank you,’ to Adrien. Once the paint is back in its place, she walks out the door and straight to her locker. “Thank the Kwamis I have spare clothes.”

Tikki is buzzing with vexation. “Are you sure we can’t sic Plagg on her?”

Marinette chuckles. “As much as I want to, Tikki, we are heroes and have to act as such.”

Tikki grumps. “But that girl is a villain without a mask or costume.” Hearing someone coming, the red Kwami hides.

Marinette hears a voice from behind her. “I told you, Marinette. I will win. All of your friends are now mine. And soon Adrien will be too. Gabriel has promised me that I will be his wife.”

Marinette hums. “If they were my real friends, they would have believed me, not you. You only showed me their true colors.” She smiles. “And good for you. Go marry Gabriel once you are old enough.”

Lila shrieks. “You know that isn’t what I meant. Gabriel has promised that Adrien and I will get married a month after Adrien’s eighteenth birthday.”

The bluenette gives her a deadpanned look. “You know arranged marriages are illegal, right? No one, not even Gabriel, can force Adrien to marry you.” She lets out a half-laugh, half-scoff. “And I don’t think you can convince, trick, or coerce Adrien into saying I Do with you.” She grabs her clean clothes and goes to change.

Lila sneers. “Adrien will be mine!” She looks around and spots an open bottle of soda in the bluenette’s locker. The Liar grins as she grabs it, pours it over her head, and lets out a crying wail. The class comes running, seeing Lila covered in soda, they all demand to know what happened. Lila whines about Marinette getting upset with her and pouring the soda all over her. Alya wants to get a teacher, but Lila says she doesn’t want to get Marinette in any more trouble. The blogger escorts the liar to the nurse so she can get sent home to clean up. The last class of the day has an uncomfortable chill to it. Several classmates toss paper balls and spit balls at Marinette until the teacher catches them. They all get reprimanded. When Alya tries to point out what Marinette did to Lila, the teacher asks if anyone actually saw it. Was Marinette in the room when they arrived? “Well, no. But…”  The teacher asks, “So what proof do you have?” No one can answer. 

Marinette’s cheer squad for basketball now has ten people in total. Three of them are guys.

Thursday.

In the morning, waiting on Lila’s desk is a white gift box. Alya, Rose, Juleka, and Mylene all squeal with delight as Lila opens it. The gift card says it’s from Adrien. Inside sits a white ivory nail care kit, a pair of white sandals, a white parasol, and a white handkerchief. The girls gush over the gifts. Lila smiles at Adrien. She is simply glowing, thinking she has won.

In the back of the class, Chloe gapes at the gifts. “Adrien Émile Gabriel Donatien Athanase Agreste! You little shit. I see what you did there.”

Adrien tries to look innocent. “Yes, Chloe? Whatever do you mean?”

The heiress laughs. “Agreste, I watch enough of those J, K, C, or whatever dramas with you to know what you are doing. I took Chinese classes with you for a while. And I know how much you love homophones.”

The blond model looks sheepish. “You caught me, Chlo. Gabriel said I had to buy her gifts. He never said what kind.” The pair falls into a fit of laughter before class begins. Marinette misses the first period due to morning sickness. Adrien greets her with a bouquet of pink and red peonies. Chloe gladly fills her in on what she misses. The bluenette is astounded that her fiancé can be that catty. But then again, thinking about it, she can see it.

As soon as the lunch bell rings, everyone heads to the front steps of the school. At the top of the steps, Marinette feels a sudden wave of nausea again. She moves over to the side to throw up, but motions for Adrien, Chloe, and Sabrina not to wait for her. Adrien turns back just in time to see Lila walk over. The two girls say something to each other, but it can’t be heard over the other students. Lila smiles at the bluenette before falling back. As she falls, she reaches out for Marinette. Marinette’s hands shoot out to catch the liar, or as if to push her. It is unclear as to which, unless you were watching closely from the start. As she falls, Lila twists so that Marinette falls first. The brunette nearly lands on the other girl. Luckily, Adrien catches his Lady just in time. Lila receives a few bumps, bruises, and scrapes from the ordeal. 

The liar cues her false tears. “Marinette! I can’t believe you pushed me. I told you I would give up on Adrien if you just leave me alone.” There is a chorus of “How could you?” 

Adrien jumps to his Lady’s defense. “I saw the whole thing. Lila fell, and Marinette tried to catch her.”

Chloe adds her two cents. “Agreste is right. I saw everything too.“ The principal walks over, about to speak. Chloe doesn’t allow him. “If you try to discipline DC again, I will not hesitate to call my Daddy. Investigate fully first. There are CCTV cameras. Besides, tomorrow is her last day of school anyway, and DC won’t be returning to this school next year.” All the faculty decided to leave it at that. They are tired of this feud.

Friday, last day of school

Gabriel is still unhappy with how his son was courting his (Gabriel’s) chosen. Maybe after the wish was made, he would allow his son to court the baker’s daughter. She does have talent and would make a remarkable successor. Emelie would approve. But the girl would be impossible to control, and he needed his son to be compliant.

That morning at breakfast, Gabriel spoke with his son. “Son. I hope you know I am doing all of this for your own good. That baker girl is only using you for your name and prestige. She is trying to go through you to get a foothold in the industry.” He takes a bite of his bland food. “I want you to distance yourself from her. I will give you one week. If you fail to do so, you will be sent to Michaela Community School in London.” 

Adrien sneers inwardly. He reminds himself, ‘One more week. Not even that. Just a few more days, and I will be free from him… And her.’ His schooled, polite, meek demeanor fools Gabriel as he (Adrien) agrees outwardly.

Adrien is running late for school, thanks to the so-called pep talk from Gabriel. For reasons he can’t fully identify, he feels anxious, scared, and a little hurt. Once Gabriel is out of sight, Plagg urges him to get to the school. While on his way, he receives a text from Chloe.

~Get your ass here quick. Césaire is on a warpath. I can’t keep protecting your Lady.
As the phone falls from his hands, in the car, he hears a soft, mental whisper. ‘Kitty. Help.’ Acting on instinct, he rolls up the partition, shielding himself from the driver’s view. A look from Plagg is all he needs as he transforms and slips out the passenger window.  Outside the school, hidden from view, he drops his transformation and rushes to the classroom. The teacher is nowhere to be seen, and the door is shut. Using his full strength, the undercover cat hero kicks the door open. It flies across the room, startling everyone within.

Chloe pulls Sabrina out of the way, leading the redhead to the back of the room. “Oh, shit. Brina, stay behind me.” The officer’s daughter nods as the two girls duck under a table.

The first thing Adrien sees is Marinette huddled next to the teacher’s desk. Her clothes are torn, and she is completely disheveled. Three feet away from her, Lila appears to be in a similar state. Only, the Liar is surrounded by classmates comforting her, while the bluenette has two people standing over her in a threatening way. Nino grabs Adrien’s arm. “Mec. I’m sorry. I tried to reason with them. But… But…” 

The blond only glances at Nino before shaking off his hand. A fully feral growl erupts from his chest. “What the FUCK is going on? Who do I need to fuck up?” He looks around at his classmates. “Well?! Someone answer me now! Or every one of you assholes will pay.” Nino shrinks back. Alix moves, standing next to the open door. The rest of the class gapes at their normally calm and polite classmate. Over the last month, Adrien has gotten a little angry, but never to this level. Alya is the first to walk over to Adrien. She holds out her hands in surrender. “Easy, Sunshine. We handled it.” The icy glare in Adrien’s eyes has her stumbling. “We… We protected Lila… And your unborn.”

Black particles begin to glitter around Adrien’s ring hand as he roars. “I have told you countless times, you stupid, ignorant, inconsiderate, egocentric, domineering, brainless, cunt! I! DO! NOT! LIKE! LILA!” The last sentence is just about shouted out. “Lila is nothing but a Selfish, greedy, deceitful, dishonest, mendacious, duplicitous, treacherous, arrogant, pompous, contemptuous, malicious, spiteful, venomous, gold-digging, sycophant. If I have my way, I would…”

A soft, broken voice interrupts him. “Chaton… Akuma… Calm… Down…” Marinette is reaching out a hand to him. He shoves past everyone, violently, and scoops his Princess into his arms and lap. The Cataclysm in his hand fades before it can touch her. 

He nuzzles his nose into her neck, breathing in her calming scent. Looking back over his classmates, “I swear on everything I hold dear, if anything happens to my kitten or my Princess, all of you will be ashes.” He places a hand over Marinette’s abdomen.

Marinette weakly cups his cheek. “Our kitten is safe.” The blond lets out a breath of relief and nuzzles closer to his Lady.

A confused Alya just has to ask. “But I thought Lila… She has a pregnancy test, and all these photos, and other proofs of your relationship.” Pause. “Your father even confirmed everything. You’ve been giving her gifts.”

Lila chooses this moment to whine. “Please, believe me.” She pulls out a positive over-the-counter pregnancy test. “I’ve already told Gabriel. He was so happy for us.” She sobs dramatically. “When… When I got to school… I… I was telling the girls… For support. And… And Marinette pulled me aside, and… And she attacked me… All because I’m… I’m carrying your baby, Adrien.” More animated sobs explode from the Liar. “But… But if you don’t want me and… and our baby… I’ll just leave Paris.” Half the class shouts out, “NO!”

Alay hugs the Green Tea brunette. “Lila, no. We want you here. We will support you. If it comes down to it, we can take everything to Gabriel. He’ll make Adrien do the right thing.”

Adrien bursts out in raucous laughter. “Gabriel, a nice guy. Gabriel, doing the right thing? The father who never allowed me to have a birthday party? The father whom I have to make an appointment to see? The father who stole credit for Marinette’s gift? Yes, I now know the blue scarf came from my Princess. That Gabriel?”

Nino coughs. “Babe, I mean, Mec has a point.” He walks over and places a hand on his girlfriend’s shoulder. “I mean, not even a few months ago, you were as anti-Gabriel as everyone else. We know the man is no good. Hell, I was Akumatized because of him. And look at how many times he tries to pull Mec out of school... At how many times he overworked his son?” He gently turns Alya to face him. “Compare Adrien, Marinette, and Lila. Who would you believe more?”

Alya collapses in his arms. “But… But that means I…” She can’t finish that sentence.

Adrien looks over at the couple. “Chloe, my last gift for Lila is in my bag. Pass it to the lying harlot.”

The Heiress emerges from under the desk and retrieves the gifts. The flowers are a mixture of red, orange, and yellow.  Four Maigolds. Four orange Lillies. Four Spider Lillies. And four yellow Chrysanthemums. Looking at the bouquet, Chloe gasps rather loudly, which is unusual for her. She nearly drops the flowers before looking over at her childhood best friend. “You… You… This is… This means… You want to? Are these your real intentions, Adrien?” The blond boy doesn’t smile. His look is one of pure disdain. This look says it all. Chloe hands the bouquet to Lila, along with a white box.  Lila tries to hide her glee behind crocodile tears as she opens the box. Sitting inside is a three-foot, white silk scarf. Under it is a small pocket watch. Engraved on the front is a Black Delia flower. Everyone can tell it’s custom-made. A perplexed look falls over Lila’s face, but before anyone can say anything, Ms Bustier walks back in. She takes in the scene and turns to fetch the principal. She is only stopped by Chloe’s reaction. Chloe sees the gifts and nearly faints. She stumbles back, hand over her heart, as Sabrina catches her. Looking at her childhood friend, she rasps. “A… Adrien. Are you saying? Are you telling her to? You… You know what these mean? I… I never thought someone could push you… You, of all people, this far. You want her to?”

Adrien meets Chloe’s eyes. His eyes are firm and filled with determination, with a touch of dark intent. Looking at the teacher, he addresses her. “Ms Bustier. Today is mine and Marinette’s last day at this school, ever.” He lets the words settle. “Lila attacked my fiancée, and I need to take her to the hospital now. We had an appointment booked for after lunch. But, as you can see, Marinette is severely injured.” With that, he picks up his Princess and strides out the door. Looking back, “Chlo, Brina. Tomorrow at City Hall, nine in the morning, sharp. We’ll see you there. Princess will bring your dresses. We start at ten.” Chloe and Sabrina let out squeals of delight. He glares daggers at Lila. “If anything happens to Marinette or the possible child she is carrying, I WILL force you to use those items as I intend.”

Ms Bustier still goes and gets the nurse to look over Lila. It is confirmed that her injuries are superficial, and possibly self-inflicted, but definitely not defensive.

After the hospital check-up and positive pregnancy report, the couple has lunch with Chloe, Sabrina, Kagami, and Luka. They share the news that Marrinette is due around January tenth, and invite all four to their Union Ceremony the next day. Luka takes the news as well as Kagami did. He is sad, but understands. Marinette had made it very clear how she felt, and he saw it during the ice skating double date. Marinette discreetly passes Sass to Luka before they leave. After lunch, a visit to Master Fu is made. He and Marianna are waiting.  Placing a hand over Marinette’s abdomen, he names the unborn child Guardian of the Miracle Box and signs over most of his assets to the couple. That night, Marianna had him move into her home in London.

Saturday.

Adrien wears a green, black, and red Tang Suit made by his lovely bride. And she wears a gown of her own design, a red and white Qun Kwa with black cats and gold ladybugs embroidered all over it. Anna, Elena, Liam, and Maria attend after preparing the couple. Chloe and Sabrina wear matching mermaid gowns in yellow and orange. Kagami wears a kimono inspired by Ryuko. Luka wears a turquoise and black tux. Liam and Maria record the entire ceremony after sneaking candid photos of the couple getting ready. Andre tries to object when the young couple arrives for the ceremony, but they present him with the pregnancy report. The mayor knows Gabriel enough to see what is going on and agrees to perform the ceremony. Chloe’s insistence helps in his decision. 

Adrien holds his bride’s hands. “We’ll have a larger ceremony when we get older. I know your father has been looking forward to this day.” He chuckles softly. “I remember the weredad dinner.”

Andre officiates. When the time is right, “Now, I understand the two of you have your own vows?” Both smile and nod. “You may proceed.”

Marinette. “I do swear that I'll always be there. I'd give anything and everything. And I will always care.”

Adrien, “Through weakness and strength.”

Marinette, “Through happiness and sorrow.”

Both together. “For better, for worse. I will love you with every beat of my heart.”

Marinette. “From this moment, life has begun.”

Adrien. “From this moment, you are the one.”

Both. “Right beside you is where I belong.”

Adrien, “From this moment, I have been blessed.”

Marinette, “I live only for your happiness.”

Adrien, “And for your love, I'd give my last breath.”

Marinette chuckles. “You already have, several times, Kitty. I give my hand to you

with all my heart.”

Adrien, “I can't wait to live my life with you. I can't wait to start.”

Marinette, “You're the reason I believe in love.”

Adrien, “And you're the answer to my prayers from up above.”

Both, “You and I will never be apart. My dreams…came true…because…of you. As long as I live, I promise you this. There is nothing I wouldn't give. I will love you as long as I live from this moment on.”

There is not a dry eye in the entire room. Andre wipes his eyes. “I now pronounce you Husband and Wife. You may kiss your Bride.”

Adrien sweeps Marinette into a deep dip and kisses her as if she were the air he needs to breathe. Everyone breaks out into joyous applause. Sitting in the back, unnoticed, is Alix next to Adult Bunnyx.

Everyone changes into less formal attire and meets at La Grand Paris for Brunch. After brunch, the newlyweds head back to City Hall. There, they meet Adrien’s lawyer, who helps them finalize their emancipation papers. From there, they head to the bank to collect access to Adrien’s trust fund and CDC account. The couple has a home-cooked dinner in their new home. They plan to spend the next few days enjoying each other’s company. 

Waiting in their living room, the next morning, are two familiar figures. One is an adult in a blue and white rabbit suit, the other a teenage girl in red with black spots. In unison, the heroes exclaim, “Senti-Bug?!!!” She gives a faint smile and waves.