Archive of Our Own ^omega

Chapter Text

Marinette chewed on the end of her pen, sitting half hunched in her desk chair. Reading and rereading her words. Going over everything to make sure they were precise and made sense. They were important to her so she had to make sure they were as perfect as she could do while also making sure her emotions were properly explained. She also hoped she didn't come off in the wrong way. She just wanted to make sure they knew she was sorry, felt horrible for what she had done and that she hoped they could forgive her and hopefully not hold it against her forever.

“You've rewritten the letters five times now,” Tikki flitted as she hovered around her holder. “Don't you think you should take a break?”

“I know Tikki,” Marinette sighed setting her pen down. “I just, I need them to be perfect,” she added looking over at her small kwami. “They're really important to me,” she mumbled eyes falling back to the papers on her desk.

She wanted to apologize to those she hurt. She had written to Ms. Rossi, Lila and Alya so far. She figured they were the ones that really needed them. She had hurt them so much and it still hurt to think about how cruel she had been. Using her palm to wipe at her eyes. She just wanted them to know she was sorry but her parents absolutely refused to let her speak with any of them right now. Her mother telling her for her mental health it's better to focus elsewhere and take a break until everything cleared. She agreed but it didn't help the guilt that kept her awake.

Tikki frowned a little seeing her tear up again. She had lost count how many times she'd seen Marinette cry in just the couple of day's she's been home. It hurt. She thought she had been doing better with Adrien talking to her about everything, but alas she guessed there were some things that couldn't be let go so easily. Quickly nuzzling into her cheek to try and offer as much support a kwami could.

“It'll be okay Marinette, I'm sure everything will get better real soon,” she soothed with a small smile looking at her friend. “You've put a lot into these letters I'm positive they're perfect because you've put your heart into it.”

Marinette smiled hugging her kwami the best she could. She was glad to have her back, it was nice to have her around. She hadn't realized how much she truly relied on her and her often words of wisdom.

“Thanks Tikki, I'm sure you're right,” Marinette agreed with a small nod. “I think I'll go with what I have,” she added with a nod, shifting to put the letters into envelops. She knew if she didn't then she honestly never would. She'd never get exactly what she wanted so she had to go with what she had now before it consumed too much of her mind. She was trying to move forward so she had to take the steps to do it.

Smiling happily to herself as she finally tucked the letters into pink envelops. Labeling each of them with a small hum before setting them back down. Looking over when she heard her bedroom hatch open, watching Tikki zoom off to hide.

“Bugaboo~” Adrien cried as he quickly scooped her up in his arms. “School is so lonely without you,” he sighed dramatically. “It felt like forever.”

Marinette laughed, her face dusting red as she was quickly abducted from her desk chair. “Adrien, you are being dramatic,” she laughed with a roll of her eyes. “It was one day, I told you I'll be back on Monday,” she sighed pinching his nose lightly.

“I know, I know, but I miss you,” he replied still keeping a hold on her. “Everything kind of sucked today,” he admitted with a hefty sigh moving to sit on her chaise with her. “Nino is still a little mad at me, Alya got suspended for two weeks, and well Chloe is still Chloe,” he listed with a small groan. “So today just dragged on, no one even wants to speak to each other after everything came out, then you were out today so a lot of people were curious about everything.”

“Whoa, hold up, Alya is suspended?” Marinette asked unable to hold back the shock. She had not known that information. Reaching for her phone, a small hope Alya messaged her. “No one has told me anything, but then again I guess they're probably still mad at me huh?” she mumbled scrolling through messages in hopes to find something new.

Adrien shook his head. “No, no one is mad at you Marinette, I just think, no one knows what to say,” he replied cautiously. It was what he picked up from the class. No one really knew what to say to anyone, especially Marinette. “A lot of people are worried about you, especially after Madame Bustier told us you'll be out all week,” he explained, wrapping his arms loosely around her waist as she skimmed her phone. “Which also reminds me, I brought your school work, and Madame Bustier gave our group an extension.”

Marinette chewed her lip lightly, fidgeting with her phone as she listened to him explain everything. “So why is Alya suspended? Did she get in trouble for something? Did Lila do something to her too?”

“No, she's suspended 'cuz she slapped you across the face in the locker room,” he answered quickly with a shake of his head. “They looked at the security footage, it was hard to miss, she said they would have expelled her, but your parents put in a good word, so it was a two week suspension,” he added with a small nod. “Lila is also suspended, I'm not sure how long though, but Alya said she got chewed out by her mom and Mr. Damocles for her behavior.”

Marinette winced as she listened, she had almost completely forgotten about the slap. It seemed minuscule compared to everything else that had happened. Now she felt even worse for being akumatized. She would definitely have to apologize to Alya, if she even wanted to listen to her. She did get her suspended. Letting out an irritated groan hanging her head, slumping against him.

“This sucks,” she sighed on a heavy breath. “I've made such a mess, I'm so sorry.”

“Marinette, you haven't caused any of this, this is just the consequences of all of our own actions,” Adrien retorted quickly with an assured look. “No one person is at fault for all of this, as easy as it would be to blame one person, we can't, but we can say you are not the problem here,” he added with a nod. “You have been hurt, and we were all kind of stupid and messed up, including Alya, so now we have to deal with our own actions to fully move on from it, we can't ignore it like nothing happened because a lot happened, so addressing it is the first step to moving forward.”

“I got Alya suspended, because I was stupid enough to let Hawkmoth get to me,” Marinette grumbled burying her face into her hands. “None of this would have happened if I controlled myself better, you can't say this isn't my fault, all of this is happening because I got akumatized.”

Adrien sighed a little, grabbing her shoulders lightly to make him look at him. “I will tell you this as many times as I have to, this is not your fault,” he reiterated with a stern look crossing his face. He would tell her as many times as she needed to hear it. He was not going to let her shoulder this alone. “You are right, none of this would have happened, Lila would keep lying, Alya would keep hurting you, everyone would keep going, and you would still be in pain,” he added his voice even but calm as he gently held her face in his hands. “Marinette, Alya would have gotten in trouble regardless, she never had a right to hit you, just like Lila would have exposed herself eventually, you just helped it come into the light, you let people see who she really is, and now we will take the info and decide for ourselves where to go with it.”

Marinette sighed a little, leaning into his hand softly. She truly appreciated him, she really didn't deserve such a sweet partner. A small weary smile gracing her face. Letting out a breathe, giving a small nod. “I suppose, you are right,” she replied quietly.

Maybe she was just over thinking everything. But that was why her parents were letting her stay home for the week. A part of her had to agree it might just have been the better idea. She couldn't have imagined how she would have handled school. She probably would have freaked out and just asked to leave as soon as she got there. A part of her still unsure how to face all her friends.

“I still feel bad for hurting everyone, even Lila, and her mother most of all,” Marinette huffed turning her head back towards her desk. “It wasn't right of me to drag her into it like that, at all,” she sighed carefully peeling herself away from him.

“No one is mad at you, no one will hold it against you,” Adrien tried to comfort her. “You weren't in the right mind, you were a victim Marinette, Hawkmoth used your pain, it wasn't your fault.”

“Wasn't it though?” Marinette mumbled picking up a couple envelopes off of her desk. “I should have fought harder, I'm supposed to protect Paris,” she added looking back at him. Pouting at the sad look on his face, rolling her eyes. “I can't help it, it's just how I feel, don't you understand?”

“I do understand that's why I'm worried,” Adrien answered with a nod. “You can't help the way you feel Marinette, and you were under a lot of stress, but I'm here for you, you can always talk to me, about anything, even superhero stuff,” he assured reaching for her hand when she wandered closer to him. Kissing her knuckles lightly. Silently enjoying the soft floral scent on her hands. The small callouses from many pin pricks from many nights of hard work.

“I promise to be a better hero for you bugaboo, so you don't have to shoulder the weight alone,” he spoke softly glancing back up at her. “I know I've been selfish and haven't always taken it seriously, but I promise you I'll be a hero you can really depend on.”

Marinette felt her heart flutter seeing those deep green eyes glance back at her. Momentarily she felt her mind go blank. Puffing out her cheeks lightly, she swore he was doing this on purpose. Trying to distract her from the important things. Then again, she supposed maybe it wasn't all bad. He sounded serious, behind the sultry undertone of his voice. So who was she to doubt him. Letting out a small breath, leaning down to give him a small peck on the cheek, patting his face softly.

“Thanks Kitty,” she hummed with a small smile. “I promise to be better too, for you and Paris,” she added softly, gently petting his cheek with her thumb. “I promise to try and be more open with my feelings, and talk to you, and know, you can always talk to me too, because we're a team and Paris needs us both,” she added with a smile standing straight again. Holding her hand up, pinky out to him. “Pinky swear?”

He grinned happily intertwining his pinky with hers giving a sturdy nod. “Pinky swear,” he agreed happily. Taking the opportunity to pull her back down to him, giving her a soft kiss.

Marinette felt her whole body turn red at the kiss. She wasn't sure she'd ever get used to it. A part of her still wondered if this was all an elaborate dream. Maybe she fell into a coma or something and was living in a fantasy world. But no. It felt much to real to be a dream.

“You're such a trickster,” she mumbled a little puffing her red cheeks lightly in a small pout. “Here I thought we were having a serious conversation and you pull such sneaky things.”

Adrien chuckled at her grumbling pouts, his own face dusted a light rose. “I'm sorry Marinette, you're too cute, I just can't help it,” he hummed holding his hands in defense. “I can stop giving you kisses if you want, as hard as it may be, it's a sacrifice I'm willing to make if it makes you happy.”

“Hey now, don't be too dramatic here,” Marinette replied quickly. “I never said that, it would make me way more sad if you stopped,” she added. “It's just, a new thing, I'm trying to get used to it.”

Adrien smiled letting out a small chuckle at her reply. “Ah so that means we should kiss more, to help you get used to it,” he hummed in a teasing tone. “Like I said last night, I'm always open for more kisses from you princess.”

Marinette rolled her eyes at his teasing behavior, though unable to stop her smile. Pinching his nose lightly again. “Well I'll never refuse your kisses, if we're not in the middle of a serious situation,” she replied adding on the stipulation so he wouldn't get any ideas. Or get mad at her if she refused to kiss him in the middle of another love attack akuma. Even with as dreamy as he was.

“Alright, sounds fair,” he laughed grinning up at her. “I will do my best to keep kisses out of serious situations or akuma fights.”

“Good,” she mused with a grin of her own. “Now can I ask a chat noir favor from you?”

Adrien quirked a brow at the question. “Hmm, what kind of favor?”

“I need you to deliver these to the Rossi residence,” she answered holding up two pale pink envelopes. “No way my parents would let me anywhere near there right now, and I want to make sure they get them, so please help me?”

Adrien pursed his lips as if in thought. He had a feeling what they were, an apology no doubt, and apology he thought was unnecessary. But alas he wasn't going to argue with her, if it made her feel better he'd be a messenger boy for her. Holding his hand out for the envelopes.

“Okay, if it makes you happy, Chat Noir will deliver them,” he answered with an assured nod.

Marinette smiled happily handing him the envelopes, giving him another kiss on the cheek. “Thank you kitty,” she giggled. “I'll reward you if you wish.”

“Hmm a tempting offer,” he chuckled moving to tuck them in his bag so he wouldn't damage them. He'd deliver them tomorrow after school. “I'll have to think about it.”

“Okay well do let me know when you think about it, and when you deliver them please,” she mused taking her school work from him when he handed it to her. “I have one for Alya too, but I'll deliver that one myself.”

“Will you be okay?” he asked turning back to her seeing her fiddle with a few things on her desk. “Talking to her I mean, about everything.”

Marinette nodded a little. “I think so,” she answered calmly tucking a few more letters away in her diary box. She didn't want to lose them. She had spent all day writing them, and hopefully they were coherent enough. “I'm not mad at her, I just hope she'll listen, or want to talk to me.”

“I'm positive she will,” he assured wrapping an arm around her shoulders, kissing her head lightly. “She looked really devastated when you weren't in today, so I think she wants to talk to you too,” he added softly. “She was worried yesterday too, she was looking everywhere for you when they all came too, but I told them we had already taken you home, so I'm positive she'll want to talk to you.”

“Hmm, well I did kind of yell at her too,” Marinette mumbled, wrapping her arms around him. “I think we just need to sit and listen to each other, without Lila,” she spoke resting her head against him. “I'm sure we can talk it out, after all, you and Mama said, it's not the end of the world.”

He chuckled a little at her comment. “No, it's not, I believe you and Alya will work it out,” he agreed with a small nod. “You're best friends, so I'm sure it will be alright.”

“And I'm positive Nino will stop being mad at you soon too,” Marinette giggled with a small teasing tone. “You should talk to him too.”

“Hmm I'll probably text him when I get home,” Adrien agreed. “I told him I was visiting you after school today, I invited him but he said maybe next time,” he mumbled a little with a small roll of his eyes.

“Can't rush everything,” Marinette replied lightly with a small shrug. Wiggling out of his arms lightly to grab her phone. “But I'll send him a text to ask how he is, I'm sure he's upset too,” she mumbled sending a quick text to Nino.

“Hmm,” Adrien agreed digging his phone out of his pocket as well to send his friend a message as well. “I still feel bad about not being totally honest with him about Lila and everything, but I'm glad I told him.”

“That's better than never,” she assured with a small nod looking back up at him. “How long do you think you can stay before Mr. Tight-wad demands your presence?”

Adrien snorted a little hearing the wonderful nickname she had given his father. He wasn't going to disagree with it. “Hmm a couple hours if we're lucky,” he answered checking his phone for the time.

“Great, that's enough for at least one movie,” Marinette chirped with a smile. “We can watch it on my bed, I'll go get snacks, you pick a movie,” she hummed happily, gesturing to her movie collection before making her way down the stairs.

“Sounds great,” Adrien agreed watching her go before browsing her collection. Humming to himself as he absentmindedly browsed, eventually landing on something that sounded good and he hadn't seen before.

It wasn't long before Marinette happily returned with a small tray of snacks and a couple drinks for them to enjoy while they watched whichever movie he picked out. Smiling happily as they carefully got situated on her bed. Grabbing her laptop so they could watch the movie.

“Your pillow has been confiscated,” Adrien laughed as he crawled up first. “I was wondering why he was so quiet.”

Marinette laughed a little as she crawled beside him, seeing both of their kwamis happily curled up on her pillow. “Well they deserve a nap too,” she mused lightly. Carefully adjusting the pillow so not to disturb them. “Good thing I have more than one,” she giggled readjusting her pillows before letting him get comfortable then settling herself.

“Hmm, I think he's just happy he doesn't have to hide in my pocket around you anymore,” Adrien mused, wrapping an arm around her carefully as she got comfortable beside him. “That and he just likes to see Tikki.”

Marinette giggled a little as she put in the movie. “She likes to see Plagg too, even if she disagrees,” she mused glancing over at their sleeping companions. “I know she misses him too.”

****

Adrien let out a distressed sigh as he hung upside-down over the edge Chloe's bed. The day had seemed to pass just as exciting as the day before. Except today he didn't have the luxury of watching silly b-movies with Marinette. Which he understood, she had work she wanted to do, and he didn't want to distract her too much. Though he did stop by briefly after fencing just to say hi and give her another pamphlet of school work before he came to visit Chloe. At her request, he was supposed to listen to her recite a presentation and work on homework. So far they hadn't gotten that far after she practiced her presentation. He was sure she'd get a decent grade. Neither seemed to have the motivation to get their homework for Madame Bustier's class out.

“We should do something for Marinette,” he spoke up watching Chloe as she paced back and forth wringing her notes through her hands. “She's still super upset about everything.”

“I thought you said she was doing better,” Chloe grumbled pausing her steps to face him. “But it was a lot, of everything.”

“Hmm she is, but she still feels guilty, especially about Alya getting in trouble, and what she did to Lila and her mother,” he explained as she pulled out her phone hearing it go off. “And no matter how many times I tell her not to, I can't just take the guilt away.”

Chloe rolled her eyes skimming through her phone aimlessly as she returned to pacing. “They got themselves into trouble, Marinette had nothing to do with it,” she defended sternly. “It's their own folly, she couldn't help that.”

“I know, but I think it's also, no one is really talking to her outside of you, me and I think Nino,” he sighed deeply, running his hands over his face, not caring if he messed up his hair. “So I think we should do something to help get her spirits up.”

Chloe hummed a little, crossing her arms, tapping her phone to her chin lightly as she thought. Pursing her lips as her pacing seemed to slow. Turning to face him again. She did want to help her newfound friend, and her childhood friend. Honestly seeing them both so upset was getting annoying. It would drive her insane if they didn't put a stop to it.

“What if we plan something as a class,” she offered with a hopeful shrug. “Like a party, she likes parties, and if we all pitch in perhaps that will help make her feel better?”

“Hmm, maybe,” he mumbled at the thought. “A party doesn't seem like a terrible idea, I'm sure if we get everyone in on it we could get it ready for Friday night.”

“You know it would also offer up the opportunity for us all to talk to Marinette, in a peaceful, calm, manor,” Chloe added with a small nod, making some notes on her phone. “If everyone is just worried about talking to her alone, this opens the chance for an open discussion so no one feels left out, and it might help ease Marinette's guilt,” she prattled off as she began to pace in circles once more.

“That's a great idea,” Adrien exclaimed hopping up from the bed. “That sounds like the perfect plan,” he cheered grabbing Chloe by the shoulders in excitement, ceasing her pacing, giving her a quick friendly kiss on the cheek. “And I'm sure the other's would love to help too, once we explain it to them.”

Chloe smiled a little in self satisfaction. Snorting at his quick rouse. “Thanks, I know I'm full of them,” she almost snorted as she was relinquished. “Well they better, after all it's their chance to help make everything up to Marinette,” she added with a scoff. “If it wasn't for them in the first place we really wouldn't be here.”

“Chloe,” Adrien cautioned hearing her snippy tone starting to make it's way back. “We all played a part in this, even us,” he corrected giving her a sharp look. “You can't throw the blame around.”

Chloe scrunched her face darting her eyes back to her phone, shrugging her shoulders lightly. “Yea, yea I know,” she mumbled with a small roll of her eyes, crossing her arms as she cocked a hip. “It just still makes me mad.”

“I know, but getting mad at everyone else won't fix the issue,” Adrien replied with a small sigh. “But not addressing it won't fix anything either – ,” he had already learned that, “ –so I think your idea is best.”

“It would also give everyone the space to apologize without feeling pressured, or isolated,” Chloe added with a small nod as she skimmed through some messages on her phone. “Giving the opportunity to address the big issue together allows for easier conversation since we are, in fact, all involved, it's just easier to break the ice.”

Adrien nodded in agreement pulling out his phone. “It would probably also help Marinette feel better,” he added quietly thinking back to her.

He knew she was being eaten alive by guilt. Even as many times he reassured her it wasn't her fault it was almost futile. So he was sure if they all just talked it out it would help everyone. At least just help relieve the tension. Just give them all something to build up on. Help rebuild what has been lost, and hopefully learn from it. That was a lesson he had learned the hard way. He knew it was hard to be open about feelings, at least honestly.

“Exactly, knowing her she's probably thinking out her own apologies to the class,” Chloe scoffed with a roll of her eyes. “She better not be though or I'm gonna smack her.”

“No smacking,” Adrien denied quickly giving her another sharp look. “It's only another reason to do something nice for her, especially if we do it as a class,” he mused with a small nod as he sent a couple texts to Nino, asking if they could hang out. “Now the only issue is we need to actually convince the others.”

“That will probably be the tricky part,” Chloe grumbled at the thought. It wasn't like the class would exactly drop everything to listen to her, of all people. She certainly wasn't Marinette. Marinette was one of the few that had a good time getting everyone to work together. But then again she was sure if they explained it in a reasonable manner they could get them in on it. “But I've texted Sabrina to help gather them together tomorrow after school, we can hold a meeting here and brainstorm.”

“I'll ask Nino to help too, he'll probably have a better chance of getting hold of Alya right now,” Adrien spoke with a nod. “Though perhaps we could go and stop by together, maybe that might help, I know Nino said she was in a lot of trouble but maybe if we explain to her parents what it's all about they'll let her join.”

“Maybe, worth a shot,” Chloe agreed with a small shrug before her face turned to one of disgust. “Wait, when we say the class does that mean...” she trailed off lightly waving her hands lightly in hopes he'd understand.

“Lila,” he finished the sentence unable to hide the disgust on his tongue.

That was one factor they had been over looking. Though she was a large factor in all of this. And regretfully was a part of the class. Adrien scrunched his nose at the mere thought of inviting her to a party for Marinette. He wasn't sure exactly how Marinette would react to seeing her. But then again he could hear a stupid voice in the back of his head telling him they had to at least give her a chance.

“Ugg, I can't believe I'm saying this,” he groaned shaking his head lightly. “But, yes, it does in fact, include Lila.”

Chloe let out a disgusted groan at the mere thought. “Oh come on,” she whined with a stomp of her foot. “She's the cause of all of this, do we really have to?”

Adrien took a deep breath facing Chloe. “You and I both know Marinette would yell at us if we purposely left her out, without even giving her a chance,” he stated with a small strained sigh. He didn't like it much better but he just knew in the back of his head, it's what they had to do. “We have to at least give her a chance, and we do want to do this as a class, she is a part of it.”

Chloe rolled her eyes letting out another whine. “I know you're right and I hate it,” she groaned wracking a hand over her face. “But how exactly do you plan on inviting her, she's suspended, and I don't think she'd answer a call from either of us after what we did yesterday.”

Adrien let out a small sigh, now he kind of regretted the damning video they let slip. Scratching his head lightly as he thought. Perking up a little as an idea hit him seeing his bag, catching the tips of the pale pink envelopes, quickly remembering Chat Noir still had a delivery to make. “Well what if it's not us that invites her?” he mused with a cat like smirk. “Princess did ask Chat Noir to make a delivery to the Rossi residence, perhaps you could tag along on a welfare check?”

Chloe quirked a brow at his sudden eagerness, tilting her head lightly at the envelopes he pulled from his bag. Scrunching her face as she realized what they probably were. Apologies from Marinette, only she'd be the person to use pink envelopes. She certainly had a brand at this point.

“Hmm, I see,” she mumbled walking over to him. “Maybe we might just have to do that, but first we should make sure the party is actually going to be a thing,” she advised lightly glancing at her phone hearing it beep. “Sabrina's on board with the idea.”

“Nino too,” Adrien replied getting a text from his friend as well. “But he wants to talk more in person, so I'm probably going to head out to hang out with him and we can talk about it.”

“That's fine I'll ask Sabrina to come over to spend the night, she's great at planning things so I'm sure she can help keep us organized,” Chloe spoke with a small nod as she texted her friend.

“Great, then you can text me if you think of anything important,” Adrien said as he gathered up his bag. “I'll see you tomorrow, also you'll do great on your presentation for sure, it's super solid,” he added remembering the actual reason he had come over.

“Thanks, I'll have Sabrina help look over it too, see ya,” she replied giving a wave as he headed out. “Keep in touch if anything important happens too.”

“Will do,” Adrien mused offering a smile and wave before he walked out of her suite. Headed off to meet up with his best friend, and hope he wasn't still pissed at him.

****

“You and Chloe want to throw Marinette a party?” Nino asked brows raised as he lounged in the booth. Staring at his blond friend in disbelief. “Are you serious? Chloe?”

Adrien nodded taking a sip of his coffee. “Yes,” he answered calmly. “I know it's hard to believe it's why I'm asking you first, that and well, everyone is still kind of on edge.”

“That's valid,” Nino agreed with a shrug of his shoulders. “It's just, well, it's Chloe, it's hard to believe she'd want to do anything nice more so for Marinette.”

“Well yes and we understand that, but we just think it'd be nice,” Adrien replied resting his head in the palm of his hand, elbow resting on the table. “Chloe thought it might be a good way to help everyone kind of, you know, talk to each other again, and just appreciate Marinette for everything she's done for the class and everyone over the past year.”

Nino nodded lightly listening to the explanation. He guessed it made sense, he was still finding it hard wrapping his head around the idea it was Chloe's idea. “That is valid, we do kind of all owe her an apology, I'll admit we kind of took her for granted,” he admitted with a small wince. It was hard to admit they had all kind of messed up, but they couldn't ignore it.

“Exactly that's why we think a class party would be the best solution, it allows for open conversation without the pressure of going alone,” Adrien replied taking another drink from his coffee. “It's just the matter of getting everyone on board, Chloe had the idea of bringing everyone together to discuss it after school tomorrow.”

“Hmm, the sooner the better I suppose, planning a party does take some time,” Nino agreed taking a drink from his own coco. “I think maybe if we leave out some of the details we can get the class to at least get together,” he spoke thinking about it. “If we don't tell them the part about Chloe being evolved right away.”

“I'd usually say that's a little sneaky but I kind of agree for this,” Adrien mumbled into his cup. “I know no one would believe her right away, cuz yea, she's Chloe.”

“Her track record is not the best,” Nino snarked with a half laugh. “But to her credit she hasn't caused as much trouble recently, especially with this whole Lila debacle,” he added with a hard roll of his eyes, nearly hissing the name through his teeth.

“Hmp,” Adrien replied with an agreed nod. “I'm honestly surprised there wasn't another akuma after the other day.”

“Hmm seriously, Alya told me her mother was having absolutely none of it, and Lila looked like she was going to murder someone the whole meeting.”

“Well it's good she couldn't exactly lie her way out of it after what happened,” Adrien replied glancing at his phone hearing it go off. “Her mother was just as upset the other day.”

“Yea, I heard that Marinette did a number on both of them, she was really pissed off, and terrifying,” Nino winced rubbing the back of his neck at the memory. “I don't think I've ever been that scared of an akuma, she was so, strategic, but then again Marinette is always that way.”

Adrien nodded taking another drink from his cup. “How are you doing? I heard she got you pretty bad too, she's still really sorry about it.”

Nino laughed a little at the question sitting up a little better. “I know, she texted me at least fifty apologies,” he chuckled waving his phone at him lightly. “I'm okay, I get it, and I don't blame Mari for it, everyone's been akumatized by now anyway, everyone knows you can't hold it against them,” he added a little more serious to his question. “I told her that too, we've actually been talking about the whole Lila thing.”

“Oh yea?” Adrien perked up a little sitting up more in his seat. “How's that going?”

Nino shrugged a little scratching the back of his neck. “About as smooth as you'd think,” he answered with a sigh. “It's hard to talk about more so just over the phone, but I apologized about not doing anything, and taking sides without knowing her side,” he explained with a heavy breath. “I was a dick who sided with Alya because I didn't want her mad with me, and was just being stupid not thinking with my head.”

“Eh at least not the right one,” Adrien retorted under his breath earning a look from his friend. “Am I wrong?”

“No, but dude.”

Adrien laughed a little at the tone shaking his head lightly. “I know, but it's good you're talking to her, it probably helps her feel a little better, I know she's really upset not hearing anything from Alya, which also how is she doing?”

“I dunno for sure,” Nino answered with a small shake of his head, taking a drink. “She's not talking to me either, I send her messages and try to call but she doesn't answer,” he added checking his phone in a small hope. “But her parents might have taken her phone when they grounded her.”

“Hmm I heard they were both pretty upset the other day, she looked devastated after that meeting,” Adrien replied with a small nod. He had noticed Alya looked like a wreck after the akuma attack, but he couldn't do much if she refused help. And all he knew was about her suspension, beyond that he didn't hear anything from her.

“Yea, I know, the last thing she told me was that her parents were grounding her for a month for her behavior, and they took away her laptop but I'm not sure about her phone, she didn't say,” Nino explained resting his head against his fist. “And I don't want to look crazy and keep bothering her, but I can't say I'm not worried either.”

Adrien nodded lightly leaning back in his seat, crossing his arms as he thought. Everything seemed like such a mess at the moment. He never would have believed this is where they'd be last week. But life is what it is he guessed.

“Well maybe we can go visit her?” Adrien offered after a moment of silently thought. “We are her friends, and maybe we can talk her into helping us out too?”

“Hmm, maybe,” Nino answered with a small nod. “It would be worth a shot to at least try.”

“Exactly,” Adrien agreed. Even though it was a long risk hearing she was grounded but he had to have some hope. Maybe they could ask her parents permission if they explained everything first. “And it'd just be nice to reach out to her after everything, she's probably blaming a lot of it on herself, and we'd be awful friends if we didn't check up on her.”

“I'd be the worst boyfriend ever,” Nino sighed in agreement nodding his head. It's not that he hadn't thought of going to see her but he didn't want to be a creep either. She probably had a reason for not answering anything and he wanted to give her space more so considering the last time they spoke they had a huge argument. He let out a deep breath shaking it from his mind for a moment. He was sure they could talk it out once this whole mess was through. “Yea, we should visit her, let's go see if she's there now before your dad calls you back to jail.”

“Hmm, sound's good, great plan,” Adrien agreed chugging the last of his coffee as he got up. Half haphazardly pulling on his jacket before following his friend out the door of the cafe.

****

“Okay, so, we had a brilliant idea,” Chloe spoke as she stood front and center of the room. They had arranged her room into a faux conference room. Slightly surprised to see that their class had actually turned up. She put a lot of that on the fact Nino and Adrien did a lot of the recruiting, but she wasn't going to swindle the opportunity. “We want to throw Marinette an apology party,” she declared face turning to a rather distasteful glare, hands on her hips. “Since, you all –“

“Chloe,” Adrien cut in quickly giving her a stern look from across the board.

Chloe bit her tongue biting back the eye roll. Taking a deep breath.

“Since we,” she corrected curtly. “All kind of messed up pretty bad and lead her to be, well, akumatized,” she concluded with a strained sigh before gesturing to the board beside her.

A large white board with a hodgepodge of ideas and thoughts written and taped on it. Various lists and suggestions they had thought up by themselves before deciding to really involve the others. “So, Adrien and I were thinking of how to apologize to her and a party seemed like a fun way, and I figured she likes parties.”

“Is this a joke?” Alix asked cautiously raising her brow at the blonds before them, halfway leaning in her chair. They were skeptical the moment Nino asked to meet at Chloe's. “You, of all people, want to throw Marinette a party?”

“An apology party no less,” Kim added in equally skeptical leaning against the back of Max's seat, practically leaning on his smaller friend.

Chloe scowled a little at the question crossing her arms. “Yes,” she answered with a small huff. “It was my idea, we wanted to do something to make her feel better,” she added with a flip of her head. “Unless you all want to swallow your pride and walk to the Dupain-Cheng bakery yourselves and apologize to her one by one, be my guest,” she sassed gesturing to the door with an arm.

“A party would be a good way for all of us to speak to her without the fear of going alone,” Adrien cut in quickly, holding his arms up in surrender, before Chloe got too far. He didn't want to lose the one chance they had to make this work. It took a lot to get everyone to agree to even show up. “Plus, it's mostly for Marinette, she does a lot for us and our class, and honestly none of us have been very good friends to her lately, we should do something nice to thank her and show her how much we appreciate her.”

“You could kiss her,” Nino spoke up from the back without missing a beat making Adrien burn bright. Their classmates then erupting with agreement, a few nodding as they glanced towards Adrien. “That would definitely help her feel better, positive.”

“Aww it could be so romantic,” Rose flitted cheerfully clasping her hands over her heart.

“Oh yea, that sounds like a great plan for cheering Marinette up!” Alix agreed with a quick nod. “She might die from shock but I think it could work.”

“He could just give her CPR if that happened,” Nino chuckled with a smug grin seeing Adrien's face burn like a street light.

“You guys are too late, he's already kissed her,” Chloe sighed with a roll of her eyes. Their classmates seeming to erupt in either surprise or admiration from the off handed comment. Chloe quickly swatting the noise back down. “But that's not going to help any of us apologize to her,” she added bringing the conversation back to the topic they were all there for, gesturing once again to the board.

“C-Chloe's right, that's not the point here,” Adrien squeaked out unsure how to feel about the sudden switch in topic. Or why it seemed to be such a class favorite. “We're here to try and figure out a way to apologize to Marinette, not kissing her.”

“No, kissing her is just a, you, plan,” Nino corrected with an assured nod as he slouched in his seat. “We just really think it would make her really happy but knowing you've already done that, I suggest asking her on a date,” he added in quickly. A part of him truly just relishing in Adrien's embarrassment, perhaps still a little mad about Adrien not being honest about Lila. “Maybe ice-cream, or the movies?”

“Ooh, or maybe a walk in the park, the flowers are lovely this time of year,” Rose offered up cheerfully.

“Or maybe a stroll through the graveyard under the moon,” Juleka offered quietly with an almost wistful sigh at the thought. “That could be romantic.”

“All great ideas guys, I'll write them on the board.” Chloe nodded in agreement scribbling the ideas down quickly. “I would suggest a mani-pedi date as well, spas are always nice,” she added into the ideas. Adrien just giving her a look of betrayal as she joined the conversation. She merely grinned.

“Or the beach,” Kim butted in as well as the conversation turned away from a party into just planning a date for Adrien and Marinette. “Marinette likes a good competition you could always challenge her to a match or something fun!”

“That's a great idea Kim,” Mylene spoke up nearly bouncing from her seat. “You could take her to the arcade, it's full of fun challenging games.”

“And Marinette likes video games, she's a good match, it would be fair,” Max agreed with a nod.

“And cute prizes,” Ivan butted in.

Adrien's face probably couldn't burn any brighter as he listened to them bounce ideas off of each other. This was not what they were there to discuss. He didn't need help planning a date, he was sure he could figure that out on his own. Well, when the time came when he actually got the courage to ask her on a real date.

“Stop it, this isn't about that!” Adrien huffed, in no way ready to discuss any ideas of dates with the class. He wasn't even sure what he and Marinette even really were at the moment. They hadn't really talked about it. They just kind of melded into this, new relationship, he guessed. Nothing really changed beyond the fact now they snuggled and kissed, other than that they were still great friends. But this certainly wasn't helping anyone.

“You know if you're really worried, you could start small,” Nino continued with a calm nod, adjusting his hat slightly. “Maybe like just a study date you know, but emphasis the date part,” he suggested.

“You could kill two birds with one stone with a study date,” Max added with a nod. “It would allow you time with Marinette and for you both to finish any work you have.”

“That's a good idea, you guys still have part of our project to do, so maybe Max has a point,” Chloe agreed jotting the idea down. “And I'm sure there aren't a lot of people at the library,” she added offhandedly.

Adrien sighed rubbing his temples, he was sure his face was just stained permanently with a feverish blush. Shaking his head trying to figure out where he had gone wrong to end up in the middle of this. At this point he just wanted to shrink away and perish. Perhaps this was his own hubris punishing him for his own crimes.

“Oh and don't call her just a friend, that will definitely help your case,” Nino added bluntly giving Adrien a flat look.

“I thought we were here to plan a party, not a date,” Adrien grumbled sending Chloe a look as if she would help him.

“Ok, what if, if we help with this party, and you'll ask Marinette on a date?” Kim offered with a tilt of his head. “Since you said you wanted to cheer her up, and we can all agree that would help the cause immensely.”

“Hmm and be entertaining for sure,” Nathaniel snarked lightly. “You should definitely ask her out at the party.”

“Ooh, yes,” Rose agreed cheerily. “That would be so sweet!”

“Hmm, a good proposition,” Chloe mumbled with a small nod, looking over at her childhood friend. “Come on, we want this to be a class effort, you gotta play your part too,” she teased with an almost cat like grin.

Adrien gave her a sharp look hearing her sass. Letting out a deep breath running a hand over his face. “Fine,” he breathed out. “If you all agree to help with this, I will ask Marinette out on a date, at the party,” he agreed with a hard nod looking at his classmates and friends.

“Then yea we're totally willing to help throw a party for Marinette,” Alix mused happily, the class seemingly pleased with their agreement. “Since she is our friend and we do owe it to her.”

“Great,” Chloe hummed happily clapping her hands together. “Let's go over some ideas we had and we can discuss, and hopefully all come to an agreement so we can get this going as soon as possible.”

****

Ladybug took a deep breath as she worked up the courage to knock on the door. She figured she had been standing in the hallway for what must have been an eternity. Not wanting to look like a weirdo if someone walked by. But still there was a sliver of fear welling in her stomach. The fear that Alya might not even want to talk to her. Or her parents wouldn't even let her in to talk at all. She had thought about sneaking in but figured Alya was in enough trouble. She just really wanted to know how she was doing, she hadn't heard anything and honestly it was worrying. Even her social media was dead, and Alya was always active, so she knew something had to have happened.

“Oh, hello Ms. Ladybug,” Madame Cesaire answered the door, surprised to see the spotted hero. “Is something the matter?”

Ladybug put on a smile shaking her head lightly holding the letter in her hands tight. “No, I just wanted to see how Ms. Alya was doing, her friends told me that she got quite caught up in the akuma and I just wanted to check that she was doing alright,” she explained politely clasping her hands in front of her in hopes to hide her nerves. “Is there a possibility that I might be able to talk with her?”

Madame Cesaire nodded as she let the hero into the apartment. “Yes of course,” she answered quickly. “She's been really, distant, the past few days if I'm honest,” she admitted quietly wearily looking towards her daughter's room. It felt like they hadn't even seen her since they brought her home from school two days ago. “At first I thought she was just angry with us, we were probably a little harsh,” she mumbled resting a hand on her cheek in contemplation, brows furrowing with worry. They almost wished she was just angry with them, pick a fight or something, hell even beg for her laptop back. But Alya acted so, defeated. As if she'd just given up and honestly it hurt to think about.

They weren't even sure if they could help, or how they could help. She refused to talk to anyone with more than a mumble. And when asked about the events of what happened she just clammed up and asked to be alone. It was worrisome to say the least.

But perhaps Ladybug could offer them some hope. Everyone knew Ladybug was Alya's favorite superhero, her parents especially knew just how much she admired her. Sometimes it border-lined on obsessive but they were willing to look past it. They just wanted their daughter to get better, back to her usual bright, spunky self. And maybe a chat with Ladybug could be the help they needed, maybe she could offer something to Alya that they couldn't.

Ladybug felt her stomach drop a little listening to Madame Cesaire. Taking a hard breath. “Do you think maybe it could be because of the akuma?” she asked carefully trying to act as if she didn't know anything. Wringing her hands together. Of course it was highly possibly Alya could be suffering from after effects of the akuma attack, it was more common than people thought. And she knew she had been a pretty terrible akuma and hurt so many people, especially Alya, so it wouldn't be surprising if she was still affected. “Or has something else been troubling her?”

“I do believe part of it is the aftermath of the akuma, she went through a lot, but you see, well, she's been having some trouble with her best friend,” Madame Cesaire explained looking back at the young hero, her voice wavering with motherly concern. “Her dear friend Marinette Dupain-Cheng, the young girl that was akumatized, I think Alya is blaming herself because they have been having trouble the past few weeks.”

“Oh I see,” Ladybug replied lightly unable to stop the frown, her own eyes lingering towards Alya's door. Perhaps it was worse than she thought. “Well maybe I can try to talk to her about it, I can also offer a hot-line for akuma victims, they're really great, you can always call for more information, but they offer great therapy and counseling for victims, and it's possible perhaps Alya just needs someone to talk to about everything that can help her through these emotions,” she added handing her a business card. They had started carrying them awhile ago for instances like this.

“I think she'd probably really like your company right now, you're her favorite hero, she looks up to you so much,” Madame Cesaire agreed with a small nod. Taking the card as she listened to the young hero. “I will keep it in mind, maybe talk it over with Otis,” she added with a steely nod. They didn't want Alya to suffer alone, and knew they might not be the best to help her through it, but they wanted her to know they were there for her whenever she needed them.

Ladybug nodded lightly. “They have wonderful people who work for them, so I'm sure they could help a lot,” she explained fiddling with her hands lightly.

“Thank you Ladybug,” Madame Cesaire replied with a small hopeful smile.

Alya stared lazily at her phone as she scrolled through her friend's social media page. She had sworn to herself to just message her already. It had been nearly three days since, well, everything. But she still found herself unable to find the courage. Only ever seeming to get to the contact page before she chickened out. Marinette probably didn't want to speak to her.

She probably shouldn't be snooping, or well it wasn't snooping. They were still friends on Instagram. She just happened to open the notifications to find her friend, or well, she wasn't sure what they were. But Marinette had been posting a lot more than usual the past couple days. Pictures of her works in progresses, many designs she had thought, and a couple pictures just hanging out with either Chloe or Adrien, occasionally both. She wasn't even sure when the three of them had gotten so close. And though her parents advised her to stay off of social media, and just give Marinette space, she couldn't help it, her curiosity just got the better of her.

At least she seems happy. Alya thought as she stared at a picture of what appeared to be Marinette and Adrien, on what she could only assume was a date. Marinette didn't even tell her she had gotten so close with him. But then again she knew she probably didn't listen if she even tried to tell her.

It hurt to think about. Honestly a lot seemed to hurt every time she thought about. An ache in her chest that just grew heavier with every happy photo she passed. She had always thought that she'd be the first to know when they got together. They could celebrate with a double date. But here she was cocooned in her bed finding out through social media. Not even a peep from her formerly best friend.

And she knew it was her fault. That's probably why it hurt. She had no one to blame. Just accept the fact she ruined everything. And she had chances to fix it. Hitting her fist against her forehead just remembering every time Marinette tried to tell her. Tried to talk to her.

And she just blew her off. Accused her of being the liar. Of bullying. Gods it sounded so stupid in retrospect. Yes Marinette was strong willed, opinionated, but she wasn't a bully.

How could she have ever been so stupid to let Liar tarnish her view of Marinette so bad? Why couldn't she have been a better friend sooner?

“Alya, are you awake?” Madame Cesaire asked softly, cracking her daughter's door open after a couple knocks. Poking her head into the door to see her daughter cocooned in her blankets. Frowning hearing her muffled crying from under the covers.

Alya mumbled something her mother couldn't make out, shifting her head to her mother hearing the door open. “I'm awake,” she answered wiping the back of her hand over her eyes. “Why?”

“You have a guest here to speak with you,” her mother answered, stepping into the room, Ladybug stepping in carefully behind her. “But if you aren't up to it perhaps another time?”

Alya nearly shot up in shock as she saw the blurred red and black form come into her room. She knew the silhouette anywhere. Scrambling to quickly find her glasses, nearly knocking her whole side table over in the hurried process.

“L-Ladybug, what are you doing here?” Alya sputtered out as she quickly pulled on her now fingerprint smudged glasses.

Ladybug couldn't stop the small giggle seeing her rush to get up, she was still the same old Alya. Though she looked a lot less put together than usual. It did hurt seeing her puffy red eyes, the clear evidence of crying. Offering a small wave of hello after Madame Cesaire stepped out of the room.

“Your friends asked me, and I wanted to check on you,” she answered calmly taking a breath to ground herself. “I know you had a tough time with the recent akuma so I wanted to make sure you were doing alright,” she explained taking a step further into the room, wringing her fingers glancing back at the now closed door briefly. “Your mother told me you've been, under the weather, your parents are worried for you, as are your friends, so I figured a personal visit wouldn't hurt,” she mused the smallest hint of a smile gracing her face. “Do you want to talk about it?”

Alya winced at the question, trying to bite back the ever growing nausea at the thought. She had felt awful ever since they woke up in the courtyard. It was something she found hard to explain or even talk about. Even after the verbal lashing she got from her parents and Mr. Damocles for her behavior. It wouldn't help lessen her sentence any. Letting out a deep breath as she gestured for Ladybug to sit, offering her the desk chair or a spot on her bed, she didn't care where but she didn't want her favorite hero to have to just stand there.

“I don't know,” Alya mumbled after a bit of silence, barely even able to make eye contact with her. “I'm sure you already know all about it, I got my best friend akumatized, and probably burned every ounce of our friendship, I'm positive she hates me,” she explained with a heavy breath, fiddling with her phone to keep her hands occupied. “I was stupid and let someone I thought was a friend get to me, and noticed way too late.”

Ladybug frowned watching Alya hunch in on herself, the way her voice fell flat, it was so unlike her. She knew this had probably been eating at her all week. It made her own stomach churn, the undeniable guilt returning. Though she tried to think of her mother's advise, and Adrien's kind words, trying to reassure herself that it wasn't her fault. But she found it so hard to believe them as she watched Alya wrap herself in blankets, burrowing into her bed. Looking as if she had spent all week crying. In so much pain.

“Have you tried reaching out to her?” she asked carefully with a small tilt of her head. “You can't really be certain of such things off of speculation alone,” she spoke with a small assured nod. “She might also just be scared, or think the same of you, perhaps she believes you hate her for the way she behaved the other day?” she speculated trying her hardest to remain as unbiased as she could trying to remember she was supposed to be a third party in the matter.

Alya looked at her as she spoke, tears stinging at her eyes. She wasn't even sure how much she had really cried in the past three days. It never seemed to stop for long, every time she got a break it wasn't long before something set them off again. Shaking her head quickly.

“I've tried, I've written so many apologizes, so many messages trying to get my thoughts out but I never have the courage to send them,” she admitted solemnly rolling her phone in her hands. “I know I have to talk to her eventually but I don't deserve it, I know she doesn't have to listen to me, she doesn't have to forgive me...” she trailed off with a hiccup the tears spilling out again. It still hurt so much.

She didn't want this to be the end. She didn't want to lose her closest friend. She wanted to be better, to try to be an actual friend again. But she knew it might never happen. She didn't deserve a second chance.

“Oh Alya,” Ladybug sighed seeing her start to cry. “I know it's a scary thing,” she soothed quickly moving from the chair to sit beside her friend. “But you know Marinette better than probably anyone, do you really think she wouldn't give you another chance?” she asked softly, carefully pulling her into a hug. “From what I know about her, I think all you have to do is just reach out, and talk, open and honestly, and both just listen to each other.”

Alya was almost limp as Ladybug let her cry on her shoulder. “I just don't know how to, I get so scared every time,” she sobbed between hiccups. Trying to catch her breath again, to just stay calm, not let it get to her but it was futile. “I don't even deserve to be her friend, this was all my fault, I shouldn't have hit her, or yelled at her, I was just so upset I don't know what came over me,” she explained through jumbled sobs. “I know I should have listened to her but at the moment I thought it was right, I was just trying to help a friend.”

Ladybug frowned as she listened to her friend sob, though only managing to make a few words out. “This isn't your fault,” she stated first with an assured nod. “You can't blame yourself for this, I know it's easy to blame oneself, but you have to look at everything,” she explained as calmly and evenly as she could. “There are many factors that played into Marinette getting akumatized, it's no one person's fault, now I won't say not to take any responsibility but you can't blame it all on you or you'll never move forward,” she cautioned with a small nod looking at her friend.

Alya found it hard to look her in the eye, ducking her head down, wiping her face in her blankets. “I could have stopped it though, it didn't have to go that far, I hurt her so much, I let her and you down,” she sniffled words muffled from the blanket. “I just wanted to be a good friend, I just wanted to stop a bully and help a friend, but I guess I didn't help the right friend,” she sighed shoulders drooping. “I let Lila get to me and twist the truth without even questioning it, because I thought it was so stupid to lie about such extravagant things.”

“It's okay Alya, I know you were trying to do the right thing, the only way you could let me down is if you let this consume you,” Ladybug replied with a kind smile. “Everyone makes mistakes, even me and even Cat Noir, but we'll never learn if we don't, you have to accept what you did and learn from it, and try to do better for the future,” she assured softly. It was a hard lesson and one she was still learning but she knew it felt better once you got over the hurdle. “You know what you have to do, and I promise you'll feel so much better if you just reach out, talk to her and your parents, it's okay to ask for help I promise, I know it's scary but I believe in you.”

Alya looked at her eyes wide in disbelief. Honestly surprised by Ladybug's kind words, though she knew she shouldn't be. Ladybug was the hero of Paris, Alya knew she truly cared for everyone. It was admirable, she truly wished to have a heart even half as big as hers. To be so fearless. Biting her lip eyes falling back to her hands, fiddling with her phone charms.

She wasn't sure how to take the step forward. How to reach out. It was scary. She didn't want her parents to be mad with her anymore, she didn't want to lose Marinette, but she knew Ladybug was right. It never would get better if she just stayed in bed. If she never took that step. She'd be stuck with the guilt, just watching everyone else move forward.

She didn't want to be left behind.

“What if they get mad at me?” she mumbled out words quivering.

“Then you'll have to talk it out,” Ladybug answered with a small nod giving her a gentle hug. “But I don't think they'll be mad, your parents are worried and I know Marinette is too,” she added lightly moving to grab the pink envelope she brought with her.

“I know you're right, but, I still feel so unsure,” Alya mumbled on a heavy breath.

“This is from Marinette, she asked me to give it to you,” Ladybug spoke handing her the envelope. “I truly do believe in you Alya, I know you're strong and can get through this, because being brave is about facing your fears,” she assured with a bright smile. “And even if you fail you just have to remember there are always people here to help you back up.”

Alya took the envelope a little timidly, as if it would crumble in her hands. It was no doubt from Marinette, she was the only person she knew who would use pink envelopes. She certainly stayed on brand. Smiling a little listening to Ladybug's encouraging words.

“Thank you Ladybug,” Alya replied giving her hero a hug. “For everything, and I'm really sorry about that video, I promise I'll do better,” she spoke a little frantically a bit of energy coming back to her. A small hope receiving Marinette's letter, realizing she may have been acting ridiculous for not talking to her.

Ladybug giggled a little at the sudden burst of energy, smiling seeing that Alya spark come back even if only for a moment. “Good, that's all anyone can ask for,” she spoke with a small nod as she hopped off of the bed. “I should probably get going, have to make sure that alley cat is staying out of trouble,” she mused with a small laugh. “But I'm never far away if you ever need me, I'm always open to talk and listen.”

“Thank you again,” Alya spoke getting up from the bed as well, nearly falling on her face when her ankle got wrapped in the blanket. “I'm really grateful you came to talk to me.”

“Of course, I'm glad we could talk, I know it's a hard subject, but I know you'll get through it,” Ladybug stated with a smile. “Have a goodnight Alya,” she added before she headed out. She had to get home before her own parents started to worry.

“You too Ladybug,” Alya replied as the door closed behind her hero.

Honestly it was hard to believe that Ladybug actually came to talk to her. And she wasn't mad with her. Holding the pink envelope to her chest as she began to pace. If she hadn't witnessed it she might not have believed it. Even bringing a message from Marinette. A part of her was afraid to open it. Knowing she'd have to face it again. But she knew Ladybug was right, she couldn't ignore it, she couldn't let this consume her. She wanted to move forward.

Looking down at the letter in her hands, glancing back to her door. Hearing Ladybug bid farewell to her mother as well. She should talk to her. She thought brows furrowing. What would her parents even think of the whole situation?

No.

She shook the negative thoughts from her head taking a deep breath. She was going to get past it. She just had to have some faith in herself. Setting the letter down on her desk to read later. Giving a small nod to herself walking to her door, holding onto the knob. Trying to just find the courage and continue. Walk out and just talk with her mom. Honestly and truthfully. Even if she got mad or worsened her already long punishment.

“Okay, I'm gonna do this,” she told herself taking another breath. Forcing herself to open the door and just move forward. “Mama,” she called walking over to her mother wrapping her arms around her in a hug. “I'm sorry.”

Madame Cesaire was a little caught off guard as Alya suddenly emerged from her room. Quickly returning the hug, patting her back softly, relieved to see her out of bed.

“It's okay Alya,” her mother comforted holding her a little tighter. Just happy that she came out of her room finally. “We should talk, if you want too,” she spoke pulling back looking down at her daughter.

Alya nodded mustering up a small smile. “Yes, I want to talk,” she agreed. Even if it was scary she had to trust her parents could help her figure out everything. Figure out what she should do. Help her figure out these emotions, how can she fix them. She had to take Ladybug's advice and trust them but she had to talk to them first.

****

Marinette hummed to herself as she worked in her sketchbook. Sitting up on her balcony for some fresh air. A part of her didn't like being home for a whole week but she found it was a little easier after talking with Alya, Nino and Adrien. Each helping her a little to work through the emotional storm of the past few days. It was a little easier to just relax and let her body and mind calm down. Remind herself it would be okay, they'd all get through it and move on. Plus having Tikki to talk to made the isolation a little less lonely.

“These are really pretty,” Tikki hummed as she sat on the opposite page, watching Marinette sketch. “Are they for something special?”

“No, I just wanted to draw some ballgowns,” Marinette answered with a sheepish laugh. “It's because I was watching Cinderella again last night, and her dress inspired me,” she explained leaning back in the chair. Enjoying the soft breeze, the scent of fresh flowers.

“I think you'd look pretty in a ballgown,” Tikki flitted as she snacked on a cookie. “They're super pretty.”

“I think I'd trip over myself with all those layers,” Marinette laughed at the thought. Though really given the chance she probably wouldn't pass it down, if she was just standing still. “It would be fun though but I think everyone wants to wear one at least once, who knows maybe I'll make one for you to try,” she mused patting her kwami's head lightly.

“What does everyone want to wear?” Cat Noir asked as he landed on the balcony.

“Ball gowns,” Marinette answered looking over at him with a smile. “Isn't it a bit early for patrol kitty?”

“Ooh yes, those are really pretty, I could totally pull it off,” he laughed stealing a cookie off of the plate beside her. “Yes, I just wanted to see you.”

“You'd be more graceful than me that's for sure,” Marinette mused eyes flicking back to her sketches. “You'd probably look nice in a high neckline with a cinched waist,” she mumbled in thought absentmindedly doodling.

“I'm sure if designed by you it'd be to die for,” he mused moving to sit with her when she scooted over to make room. “You could always wear a suit, that'd be hot,” he added with a nod. “A tailored suit is hot on anyone.”

Marinette felt her face turn hot at the blunt comment, though she didn't disagree. A well tailored suit could help most anyone. “Hmm, but there's no reason for me to dress up,” she scoffed a little leaning against him when he joined her in the chair. “How was class today?”

“Boring,” he answered with a dramatic sigh. “But like the usual boring, there's just nothing going on really, a quarter of our class is out at the moment, and there haven't been any akumas, so it's just been average.”

“Oh how terrible, forced to suffer an average day,” she replied sarcasm on every word. “What a terrible life you must lead kitty.”

“Dreadful truly, but seeing you makes it better,” he hummed giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Also reminds me, are you busy Saturday night?”

“No, why?” she answered with a rose a brow at the curious question. “Should I be?”

He shook his head quickly. “No, I wanted to ask if you wanted to come to a party with me,” he replied. “I can't tell you a lot about it other than it's formal wear, because it's fun, and it starts at 7-ish, we can be a little late.”

Marinette gave a curious look to the sudden party, more so a little secretive party. “What's it for?”

“A princess,” he answered with a sly smile. “Come on, I promise it will be fun.”

Marinette shook her head at his sly smile, pinching his nose lightly. “Hmm, I suppose I can say yes this once,” she mused. “Since you came out of your way to ask it'd be rude to deny a handsome face.”

He smiled brightly pulling her into a hug, giving her a kiss on the cheek. “I promise you'll have a fun time,” he hummed happily.

She laughed as he pulled her close, ceasing her sketching, though she wasn't that upset. She'd take hugs and kisses over working. “Okay, if not you better make it up to me,” she half joked with a laugh giving him a kiss on the cheek in return.

“Of course princess, I'd never wish to disappoint you.”

She snorted a little at his dorky grin, it was only worse now knowing who was under the mask. She couldn't believe he was such a sap, oh, well, no, she could believe it the more she thought about it. Rolling her eyes lightly shaking her head.

“Since you are here, I have something to give you,” she spoke carefully moving to get up. “Wait here for a sec, I'll be right back,” she added as she hopped down back into her room.

“Okay,” he replied curious as she got up. Watching her hop back down into her bedroom. Sitting up waiting, his tail swishing behind him in curiosity. Wondering what she got him, feeling a little bad he hadn't gotten her anything. But he wasn't expecting any sort of gift.

Marinette hummed to herself as she scuffled around her desk looking for the small gift. She had meant to give it to him days ago, before the whole akuma mess. Now it seemed a little silly but she didn't want to hold onto it forever and she wanted to give him something to say thank you. Smiling as she finally found it quickly scurrying back up to the balcony. Giggling a little seeing the cat ears perk up.

“I was supposed to give this to you Tuesday, but I never got the chance,” she explained handing him the small gift. “It was a thank you for asking Chat Noir to come talk to me, now though it's more or less just a thank you for everything.”

Chat Noir blinked a little carefully taking the small gift. A small gift bag with gold stars on it, tied together with a red ribbon. Looking at her when she spoke, feeling his heart seemingly skip a beat at the soft smile on her face, the setting sun haloing around her. He had to be the luckiest cat in all Paris truly. Taking a hard swallow before moving to carefully unwrap it. Smiling a little pulling out a homemade little Ladybug plush.

“I know how much you like Ladybug,” Marinette mused with a small nervous laugh tucking some hair behind her ear. “Now I'm not sure if this counts as being self centered or not,” she laughed her face burning in a blush.

He chuckled a little at her comment. “I don't think it does,” he replied looking down at the little Ladybug. “It's super cute, thank you Marinette.”

She smiled, glad to know he liked it. “You don't have to thank me, I wanted to do it to thank you,” she giggled a little sheepishly. “I'm glad you like it though, I thought about making a kitty to go with her but maybe next time.”

“Well she has me so she still has a partner,” he joked holding it up to the side of his face. “So no harm done.”

She laughed at his joke. “Very true,” she nodded rocking on her heels lightly. “I'm positive she's in good hands then, such a valiant hero of Paris,” she mused a small smirk on her face.

“Absolutely,” he laughed taking her hand lightly to tug her closer. “It's my job anyway to protect everyone, especially such a cute princess,” he mused before giving her a soft kiss.

Marinette felt her whole body turn red, she still wasn't used to, this. Or how casual it seemed to become. Not that she was complaining, she enjoyed every hug, kiss and cuddle. It was still just surprising.

“Gross.”

Both Marinette and Cat Noir jumped hearing the sudden third party join the rooftop. Each sharing a shade of red turning to see Chloe, half in and half out of the hatch. A somewhat amused look on her face as she pulled herself up, sitting on the edge of the hatch.

“C-Chloe, what are you doing here?” Marinette stammered out trying to get a hold of her emotions. She hadn't even heard anyone come in.

“Sabrina's here too, but she's waiting downstairs,” Chloe corrected with a small laugh. “I came to see if you wanted to hang out, since there's a party to attend this weekend, thought I'd be a good friend and come see if you wanted to join me on a shopping spree, find an outfit you know, all that fun stuff,” she mused with a wave of her hand. “I figured Adrien's asked you about it already right?”

Marinette gave a hard nod at the question. “Yes, he did earlier,” she answered not a full lie. “I said I would attend yes.”

“Great,” Chloe flitted with a smile. “Then come along, I'll go wait downstairs before I catch whatever cooties you two are sharing.”

Marinette pouted a little at her sass, rolling her eyes lightly with a shake of her head. She was better but she was indeed still Chloe. Letting out a breath looking over to Chat Noir, giving a small smile.

“Sorry kitty, looks like we'll have to cut our time short,” she mused with a small sigh. “Apparently I'm needed elsewhere.”

He chuckled a little his face still red. “It's okay, we can always talk later and you can tell me all about it,” he replied standing up from the seat. “I do hope you can have some fun, it'll be good for you to get out and hang out with more than me.”

She giggled a little, nodding lightly. “That's true,” she agreed. “I promise to tell you all about it later,” she mused leaning over to give him a kiss on the cheek.

He smiled nearly purring. “Can't wait purrincess,” he hummed. “See you at patrol then?”

“Wouldn't miss it kitty,” she answered with a smile heading back towards the hatch. Giving a smile and small wave before she disappeared back inside.

“See ya later,” he replied with a small wave. Waiting until she was inside before he headed off back to his own responsibilities.

****

“So how was your day with Marinette yesterday?” Adrien asked as Chloe walked into his room. “Do anything fun?”

“It was quite nice indeed,” Chloe answered plopping herself onto the couch, tossing her bag on the floor beside her feet. “Went shopping, went to the spa, mani-pedi's, she looked like she needed the pampering, after being cooped up home for nearly a week,” she groaned with a roll of her eyes. “It was nice.”

“That's good, I'm glad you guys had fun,” he replied with a small chuckle hearing her tone. The way she tried to hide how much fun she actually had. “Most of the preparations for Saturday are set, Alya and Mylene told me they got most of the food and stuff taken care of.”

“I have the room, Sabrina, Rose, Juleka and Nathaniel are coming tomorrow morning to help decorate,” Chloe added with a small nod looking over at him as he shuffled around to change into fresh clothes. “I believe Nino reported that Kim, Max and Ivan are helping with the music.”

“Hmm, that's good, everything is going well,” Adrien replied with a nod as he pulled on a fresh shirt. “Now I think all that's left is the last invitation.”

Chloe let out a groan of disdain at the mention of it. It was the last thing they were avoiding for the past couple of days. But today would be the last day to give it before the party tomorrow. Mostly because neither of them really wanted to.

“Lila,” Chloe hissed out with a heavy roll of her eyes.

“Come on, sooner we go sooner we get it done with,” Adrien sighed leaning over the back of the couch to grab his bag. “I know we don't want to, but we have to,” he huffed digging through his books and things to find the letters he was to deliver.

“Fine but I am not happy about it,” Chloe grumbled slinging her bag over her shoulder getting up. “I still think it's ridiculous.”

“I do to, but this isn't about us, it's about Marinette,” Adrien replied with a stern nod. “She'd give her another chance, so the least we can do is offer one,” he added as they made their way out.
“She probably won't even listen to us,” Chloe grumbled following her friend out of the manor. She had little faith in this reaching Lila at all. She'd probably just try to pin it all back on Marinette like she always did.

“Won't know if we don't try,” Adrien commented as they headed towards the Rossi residence.

Adrien took the time on the way once he was far away from home and away from most of the public eye to duck into an alley and transform. They had a higher chance of just being let in the door if they showed up with at least one hero. And it gave them a way more reasonable answer of why there were even there if they were asked. Though even on the quiet walk to the apartment building, it didn't help quell either of their nerves or trepidation about their current quest. But Adrien at least tried to hide some of his worry as he knocked on the door to the Rossi residence.

“Hello Madame Rossi,” Chat noir greeted with a small nervous laugh. Trying his hardest to stay calm. Reassuring himself mentally that it would be okay.

“Oh Hello Chat Noir, and Mlle. Bourgeois,” Madame Rossi replied raising a small brow to the curious guests. Letting them inside the doorway so they weren't just standing in the hallway. She didn't need noisy neighbors. “What brings you here? Is everything alright?”

“Yes, actually we were just wondering if we could talk to Mlle. Lila,” Chat answered with a quick nod. “Marinette has been worried how she was doing after the other day so she asked us to come check on her to make sure she was doing okay,” he explained, which was not an exact lie. Marinette did want to know how she was doing. “And she asked me to give you this on her behalf,” he added quickly remembering the letter. “Says she's sorry she couldn't do it in person, but didn't want to wait too long.”

“And I wanted to see if it would be alright to invite Lila to a class party we're throwing this Saturday,” Chloe added with a pointed nod glancing at the older woman. Hands clasped behind her back, fidgeting with her fingers. “It's something the class wanted to do together, to help us all get past this, bump, and we don't want to exclude her or for her to feel left out.”

“Oh thank you,” Madame Rossi replied lightly, taking the soft pink envelope from the teenage hero. Nodding lightly listening to Chloe. “I'm sure Lila will be happy to hear that, she's been, a little under the weather since Wednesday, so it might make her feel better to hang out with friends,” she added sending a weary look towards a closed door down the hall. “I'll go tell her you came to see her, maybe that will cheer her up.”

“It's okay if she doesn't want to, we don't want to upset her further,” Chat Noir assured holding his hands up lightly. He wasn't sure how Lila would react to seeing them, and he didn't want another akuma to deal with. But it would also be nice to actually talk with her, they hadn't really gotten a chance since, well everything. And a part of him was genuinely worried, underneath all the bitter anger he was learning to work through.

“Are you still sure this was a good idea?” Chloe mumbled as Madame Rossi left to talk to Lila. “This is probably pointless.”

“It's best we try at least,” he assured with a nod. He knew it's what Marinette would want them to do. They both knew if she could she would have joined them. She genuinely did believe everyone could change, or well most everyone, Hawkmoth could still burn in hell for all most everyone believed. But she believed in Lila, at least a little and would be disappointed with them if they did purposely excluded her.

“Hmp,” Chloe huffed under her breath her nose scrunching. She knew he was right and hated the fact. A part of her was really getting tired of this whole nice thing, it was really trying her patience. But alas, she wasn't a quitter either. She knew from past experience, that perhaps just maybe this meeting could prove to not be as pointless as she believed.

Perhaps there was a part of Lila that just needed someone to reach out to and offer help. Offer her the chance she keeps squandering. Perhaps give her a friend she could actually depend on, but only if she honestly did her part too. Chloe was still learning real friendship, it was hard and took time but she was willing to do it because she wanted to. And she knew Lila needed to first accept her problems and learn that she had to work to be better. So maybe this whole event could be the kick in the butt she needed, and now she just needed someone to reach out and offer a hand.

Chloe guessed she was willing to help because she knew how terrible it felt alone. And a small part of her in the back of her mind didn't want Lila to feel like that. She didn't want her to squander her last chance, knowing she could change if she really tried.

She just had to actually try this time.

“You can go talk to her if you wish,” Madame Rossi spoke up as she walked back out. “She said she didn't mind talking to you,” she added with a small smile. She couldn't help but be worried for her daughter, so perhaps a good pep talk from a hero of Paris would make her feel better.

“Thank you, we'll try not to take too much of her time,” Chat noir replied with a smile before following Chloe towards Lila's room.

“Shut the door,” Lila huffed with a wave of her hand as she slid her laptop to her nightstand. Eyeing her so called guests. “Make yourselves at home I guess,” she grumbled as she nestled into the corner of her bed to face them.

Chat Noir fidgeted lightly as they shuffled into her room. It looked like she hadn't left her room in days. Curtains drawn giving everything a dark purple overlay, clothes and papers scattered, her book bag appearing to have been thrown against the wall. It's scattered contents shattered around the fallen bag on the floor.

And Lila sat hunched on her bed, holding one of her pillows in a death grip, glaring at the two, guests. Her hair appearing to be rather messy, loose strands clipped back with an array of colorful clips, wearing some simple pj sweats. Her usual make up caked face was bare, showing some signs of simple acne and bags under her eyes. Hard not to notice the fact it looked like she had been crying recently. Eyes red and swollen. It was honestly one of the few times either of the teens had seen her, so well, casual, to say the least. Not all dolled up in designer wear and appearing to look as perfect as she tried to be.

Though Chat Noir quickly brought his attention back to the actual matter of hand, clearing his throat lightly, offering a small wave.

“Good afternoon Mlle. Lila,” he spoke up trying to hide the nerves on his voice. He wasn't really sure how to start. “How have you been?”

“What do you want?” Lila nearly seethed, fingers digging into the plump pillow in her arms. “Are you here to ridicule me further?”

“No absolutely not,” Chat Noir answered without hesitation hands flying up to a surrender. “We just wanted to check on you, Mlle. Marinette was worried how you were doing and wanted us to check on you,” he explained carefully. “And Mlle. Chloe is here on behalf of your classmates, she asked me to escort her so maybe you'd be more comfortable talking.”

“Yea, I came here to personally invite you to a party,” Chloe added with a small scoff at the attitude. “A class party tomorrow night, it's like formal wear, you know cuz it's fun,” she explained pulling out her phone to go over all the notes they had put together.

Lila scoffed rolling her eyes. “Oh please, I'm not stupid, Marinette hates me,” she grumbled squeezing the pillow, glaring at her guests. “No one would really want me at a party, is it another cruel prank? Why are you really here?”

Chat Noir scowled a little at the defensive tone before letting out a deep breath. Now was not the time to be angry. Pulling out the other soft pink envelope. Holding it out to her for her to take if she wanted.

“We aren't lying to you Lila,” he stated evenly biting back his aggravation. He understood her doubt. “Marinette gave me this to give to you, it's an apology since she couldn't come in person, so the least you could do is give it a read.”

“We also didn't have to invite you either, we were being nice,” Chloe added with a flip of her ponytail giving her a flat look. “Since it's actually an apology party for Marinette, we thought it would be better for us all to talk about everything together,” she explained with an almost sigh. A part of her didn't understand wasting their time explaining it to her. She was making it clear she didn't want their offer. “It's less scary together than alone, and a party is always fun, we didn't want to exclude you, and Marinette would want you there too, especially after the other day.”

Lila scowled as she listened to them drawl on. Snatching the letter from Chat Noir's hands, examining it skeptically. Of course she'd use pink envelopes. Eyes flicking back to the blonds. Did they really expect her to believe them? Did they think she was that stupid? It sounded like nonsense. She knew there was no way in hell anyone in class would want anything to do with her. Especially Marinette. Not after everything that had transpired between them. Not after that stupid slander of a video. Gritting her teeth hearing what they really wanted from her.

Of course. It would have been much to good to believe they wanted her to actually be there. Of course they just wanted her to pity up to their precious Marinette. A part of it left a painful hurt in her chest. But she quickly swatted it away.

“You want me to apologize to her after what she did to me!” Lila snarled nearly tearing her pillow in half. Marinette was the reason any of this happened. She was suspended because of her. All the while she got to just take a cozy break at home. Not having to face any repercussions for her own actions, and she just knew it was her behind that stupid video. Who else would it be? “Do you seriously think I'm stupid enough to believe any of this bullshit?”

“Hey, you did your fair share, don't you dare forget that,” Chloe hissed back quickly with a stomp of her foot pointing a finger at her. She was growing tired of the blame game and pity party Lila seemed to be living in.

“We came here out of the goodness of our hearts because Marinette, and Adrien, still have some hope for you,” she explained holding a hand to cut Lila off before she could interrupt. “Even after all of your lies, manipulation, and pain you have brought everyone, they are willing to forgive you, we are willing to forgive you,” she explained with a gesture of her hands between the three of them. “All we want from you Lila, is for you to just be you, the real you, no lies, no stories, just Lila Rossi,” she added gesturing over her. “We want to know who you really are, we are willing to move past the lies and deceit, we're willing to know you.”

Lila nearly growled as she listened to Chloe, of all people, berate her. Scowling as she let her continue her speech. Ducking her head trying to bite back the tears that threatened to overflow. She didn't understand the emotions swelling in her as she listened to the blonde prattle on. How was she supposed to believe any of this nonsense? To honestly believe that she'd stand a chance with any of them.

They really had no right to believe anything she said. They really had no real reason to reach out to her. She was a pariah to them. So how was she supposed to now trust Chloe of all people?

“I didn't do anything!” she snapped back quickly with a sharp glare. “They're the ones who believed me, they chose their own problems, I didn't hurt anyone!”

“Will you swallow your pride for five minutes and listen,” Chloe snarled glaring back at the girl. “Lila look, I know I'm not the most trust worthy, you've said so yourself, but I've already admitted that to myself, I'm willing to take my blame because I earned it,” she spoke sharply. She was sick and tired of Lila's nonsense. “But I also know how painful it is to be left behind, left out, the thought that no one will trust me because I don't deserve it, and I don't, but I reached out for help because I don't want to be that anymore,” she continued her voice softening lightly, taking a step towards their classmate. Taking a calming breath seeing the look on Lila's face.

It wasn't a time to let her anger get the better of her. As irritated as she was. That isn't why they came here. They did want to help her, help show her that she didn't have to depend on lies.

“I don't want to yell at you Lila,” Chloe sighed letting some of her anger go. “We do want to genuinely help you, but we can't do anything until you want it too, you have to admit what you've done to move forward, no one can magically fix it, so we just want you to know, that we're willing to be here for you, to help you, to be your friends, real friends, but you have to put effort into it too.”

Lila scowled gripping the pillow, accidentally crinkling the envelope in her death grip. Pulling her knees to her chest, squeezing the pillow as she listened to Chloe. A small part of her wanted to accept the offer, but the other part told her it was simply more lies.

Friends weren't real, no one really cared about others, she had been burned enough.

She had just learned to play the game.

It wasn't her fault they were naive enough to believe such fantasies.

Chat Noir nodded lightly in agreement with Chloe, resting a supporting hand on Chloe's shoulder. “Chloe is right Lila,” he spoke softly. Now wasn't the time for anger. “Friendship is hard, and you will mess up, we all mess up, but it will only hurt more if you continue to isolate yourself, we wanted to reach out to you because we do care about you,” he continued eyes flicking between her and Chloe. “But people can't read minds, you have to be open and honest, because friendship built on lies isn't friendship and it will only hurt more if you continue like this.”

Lila grit her teeth hugging her pillow, a part of her wishing to just sink into the corner and disappear. She shook her head. She didn't need their pity or their friendship. She was sure it would end like all the others. With nothing. She was tired of being forgotten. Being nothing. She wasn't going to let it happen again. Her anger quickly swarming back as she glared at them. Hot angry tears unable to stay hidden. Chucking her pillow at them, she didn't want to see them anymore. She didn't want to talk anymore.

“Get out!” she cried. “Go away, leave me alone,” she demanded her voice cracking as the tears streamed down her cheeks.

She didn't need them to see her actually cry.

No.

Chat Noir frowned seeing her start to break down taking a weary step closer. “Lila, it's okay,” he spoke softly. “You can talk to us, we just want to help you, please.”

Lila shook her head throwing another pillow, hitting him square in the face. “No!” she nearly screamed through her sobs. “Go away!”

Chat Noir was about to protest again before Chloe grabbed his arm, gently tugging him away. Shaking her head lightly letting out a scoff. “Come on let's go,” she sighed tugging him towards the door. “She doesn't want our help.”

“But,” Chat Noir tried to protest his voice almost desperate, sparing one more look towards Lila. He didn't want to leave like this.

“But nothing, she doesn't want it, nothing we can do, we tried,” Chloe huffed with a steely glare. “So come on, she wants to be alone, we'll leave her alone.”

Chat Noir chewed his lip glancing between them. He didn't want to leave like this, but he knew there probably was nothing more they could say. Letting out a dejected breath before he nodded.

“Alright, we'll leave,” he agreed with a solemn nod. Sparing one more look towards the sobbing girl. He couldn't find it in himself to feel anything but pity for her. “We do hope you feel better, and always know you can reach out if you do want help,” he bid farewell to their classmate before walking out with Chloe. Shutting the door behind them.

****

“Ah, they're coming,” Alya nearly squealed before peeling herself away from the window. “Come on everyone get in your spots,” she instructed, gently ushering Nino with her.

“They're probably expecting this you know,” Nino laughed as he let Alya push him into position. “Chloe probably ratted us out.”

“Hush up,” Chloe scoffed from across the room. “Marinette has no idea about it other than it's a party, so be quiet,” she scolded with a huff as she shut the lights off.

Marinette fidgeted with the tool of her dress lightly as they walked into the hotel. “So what's this about?” she asked peeking up Adrien. “You guys have been so hush hush about it,” she mumbled feeling the nerves bubble in her stomach. Neither Chloe or Adrien told her more than it was a party and she had to be there. Even when she tried to reach out to Alya if she knew, she still got nothing. A part of her couldn't help but worry it was all an elaborate prank. Perhaps they were all mad about what she did. She had hurt them all pretty bad.

Adrien pouted a little seeing her face fall, nudging her arm lightly. “Don't worry,” he replied with a smile. “It's going to be fun, I promise,” he assured with a small nod. “We all worked really hard on it, even Chloe.”

Marinette raised a brow as they stood in the hallway just outside the party room. “You're not pulling my leg?” she asked a little skeptical. “I don't think reserving the room counts as working hard,” she mocked lightly only to earn a loud groan from the other side and muffled laughter. She flinched a little surprised by the response.

“I heard that bread head!” Chloe grumbled from behind the closed doors.

Adrien couldn't hide his snicker hearing Chloe's protest. Shaking his head lightly before smiling down at Marinette, one hand resting on the small of her back. “She did a lot actually, this was her idea,” he corrected lightly before he grabbed the door for her. “After you,” he mused pushing the door open, gently ushering Marinette inside the room.

Marinette was still a little skeptical as she was gently ushered inside the darkened room. Blinking as she tried to look around, but couldn't make out much beyond the huddled shapes of her classmates. Honestly she had no idea what was going on or what this was all about. She didn't really like being the only one in the dark, or well out of the loop.

“Surprise!” everyone cheered as the lights were flicked on again, a few party poppers flying off as well showering confetti into the air. Her friends all hopping out of their hiding spots, from behind and under decorated tables, or out from behind the marble pillars.

Marinette couldn't help but blink as she looked around at everyone and everything. Everyone dressed up so beautifully, it helped make her feel a little more comfortable. She had been afraid she was overdressed. The room was decorated so beautifully, every table adorned with a centerpiece of roses and lilies, a whole table full of treats, ( homemade from the looks of them ) and drinks. Ribbons and flowers adorning the walls and pillars. It was elegantly playful she thought. Unable not to notice the beautifully made banner that was hung up in the center.

“Thank you Marinette?” Marinette read out loud, curious if she was reading it right. Looking over at Adrien for clarification. “What is this?” she asked her face tinting red.

“I told you it was a party for a princess,” Adrien answered with an amused smile, kissing her hand lightly. “We all agreed it was the least we could do to help celebrate all the things you've done for everyone,” he clarified with a soft smile that made her heart flutter.

“We have all been working all week on it,” Chloe added as she walked over. “So you better like it,” she huffed grabbing onto Marinette's arm lightly. “So come on, stop standing in the door way, let's party.”

Marinette couldn't help but giggle as Chloe dragged her into the room more. “Okay, okay,” she mused still trying to comprehend everything happening.

It was a little hard to wrap her head around. That they had put this together for her. Even after everything she had done to them last week. She had hurt them all so much but, they still did this. Going through all the trouble of planning a party, and working together with everyone. She couldn't help the tears that welled in her eyes. It just made her feel so warm and happy. Knowing they still cared for her, they weren't mad at her.

“Hey now, this is a happy party,” Alya laughed as she rushed over to her friend. Quickly enveloping her in a tight hug. “No time for tears,” she laughed on a small hiccup as she held her friend close. “We're so sorry.”

“What?” Marinette asked curious to the sudden apology. Pulling back surprised. “I should be the one apologizing to all of you guys,” she blubbered unable to stop the tears.

They weren't sad tears.

She didn't feel sad.

The emotions just seemed so overwhelming all at once. But it wasn't sadness. They were warm and bubbly. She was happy, genuinely. Seeing all her friends together again, seeing them all happy and smiling.

“I did so many cruel things, I hurt everyone so much, I'm so sorry,” Marinette cried as she tried to stop the tears. Her words just vomiting out, everything she had been dying to say since she woke up from the purple fog in the courtyard. “I'm just so sorry.”

Alya shook her head quickly holding her by the shoulders looking her in the eye. “No, that wasn't you,” she assured quickly as the others quickly came to crowd around Marinette as well. “Well, it was, but look we all had a very long talk about everything and we know, it was our fault you had to go through that at all,” she admitted a little solemnly.

“Alya's right,” Nino added with a nod, resting a hand on his girlfriend's shoulder. “We all had a part in making you feel like that, and we should be the ones to apologize to you Marinette.”

“If it wasn't for our selfish actions you wouldn't have had to feel so abandoned,” Rose pipped up with a nod. “We didn't think about how you would feel and we know that now.”

“Yea, we kind of lost sight of everything, we should have talked to you about moving seats,” Kim agreed. “We were too focused on all the pretty words Lila said instead of actually paying attention.”

“Madame Bustier kind of scolded us about it though,” Alix laughed scratching her cheek lightly. Thinking back to their teacher's sharp words. “That day we were trapped in the classroom, it gave us a lot of time to think.”

“You know after we almost threw some punches,” Nathaniel joked nudging his pink haired friend lightly. “But we learned a lot in that brief time, as much as it might have sucked at the time.”

“Look what we're all trying to say is,” Alya butted in again with a small sigh. “That we're all really sorry Marinette,” she added with an earnest smile. “For our actions, for hurting you, for not being good friends.”

“But we're going to try to be better,” Nino added with a small nod looking at his childhood friend. “Because we know things won't be the same, but we're going to try.”

“It's part of the reason Chloe thought of the idea of this party,” Juleka mentioned gesturing to their blonde classmate lingering on the edge of the group. Pulling her into the group a little more.

“Yea, a way for us to apologize and thank you for everything you've done for us,” Mylene beamed with a smile. “Because she made us realize we never did thank you for all the things you do for us.”

Marinette couldn't help the tears running down her face as she listened to her friends. Oh she truly had such wonderful friends. She loved them all so much. It made her heart want to burst she just felt so, relieved. Any dark thoughts that might had lingered vanishing as she listened to their heartfelt apologies. Such heart warming words. Honestly glad to know they didn't hate her. She smiled trying to assure them she wasn't upset.

“I'm sorry,” Marinette apologized wiping her tears on the back of her hand. “I'm not upset I promise,” she giggled hearing some worried musings. “It's just, this means so much to me you guys,” she cried on a laugh. “You're all just so amazing, I don't deserve such great friends.”

“Aww Marinette,” Alya cooed quickly enveloping her friend in a hug. A hug that was soon joined by everyone else. “If anything we don't deserve you,” she laughed.

“I love you guys so much,” Marinette cried as she was enveloped in the massive group hug. She just felt so happy to have her friends back. Just to know they still wanted to be her friend at all. It seemed all she could do was smile and cry.

“You're going to drown us all with your water works,” Chloe huffed as she pushed through the group to get to Marinette. “Come on, we're here to party not go swimming,” she mumbled as she dabbed at Marinette's face with a napkin.

Marinette laughed as Chloe helped clean her face. “Yes, you're right Chloe,” she agreed with a nod. “We've all cried enough this week, let's party,” she giggled with a bright smile.

The teens cheered happily as they dispersed to fully enjoy the party as the music began to envelope the room. Some shifting to dance while others lingered at the table of food, and some just decided to chat and mingle at the tables. Marinette was about to go and join Alya, Nino and Adrien before she was tugged back towards the wall by Chloe.

“This is a party, I will not let you walk around with mascara streaks,” Chloe spoke with a small pout as she pulled out an emergency make-up bag. “Honestly, you should have at least worn water proof.”

“I wasn't expecting to cry tonight,” Marinette laughed a little, letting Chloe do as she pleased. “You did a great job on putting this together.”

“Hmp, Adrien helped getting them to agree,” Chloe replied as she helped fix Marinette's face. “I just thought it was the least we could do, and it saves time from everyone taking their sweet time apologizing,” she added with a little more sass and a roll of her eyes. “Honestly if we didn't do this,” she stated gesturing to the party. “No one would ever work up the nerve to even face you again, so what better way than to force them all at once.”

Marinette blinked a little at the explanation. She supposed it actually made a lot of sense. It was probably a lot less scary to face it together than alone. Even she felt better knowing she had Adrien there with her tonight. She probably never would have had the courage come here alone. She nodded a little in understanding.

“That's a very smart idea, great thinking,” she agreed with a smile, quickly pulling her friend into a hug. “Thank you so much Chloe, it means so much to me,” she added trying her best not to cry again. She was not going to ruin Chloe's hard work so easily. “I'm glad to call you a friend.”

Chloe was taken a little by surprise before she pushed her away lightly. Her face burning red. “Yes, yes, I'm wonderfully smart,” she grumbled trying to hide her bashfulness. “Don't go ruining my hard work so quickly.”

Marinette laughed. “I'm sorry,” she replied quickly wiping away her tears, being careful of her make up. “I just can't help it.” It all just made her feel so happy. Happier than she had honestly felt in a long time. Probably since before this whole Lila mess.

Chloe rolled her eyes, quickly ushering Marinette back out towards the others. “Come on, this is a party for you, so you know, go party,” she spoke with a small nod. “Go eat, talk, dance with your boyfriend, you know just have fun please.”

Marinette blushed bright. “Boyfriend?” she stuttered out embarrassed. “We aren't, no,” she tried to deny quickly though Chloe only rolled her eyes. “It's not like that.”

“Oh yea cuz he kisses all his just-a-friend's like that,” Chloe sassed gently pushing Marinette towards the waiting trio.

Marinette's face burned brighter than what felt like a thousand suns as she was pushed back towards her friends. Unable to find the time to protest before she landed smack dab in the middle of Adrien's back. Chloe snickering a little as she seemingly molded into the crowd to mingle herself.

“Are you okay Marinette?” Adrien chuckled, offering a hand to help steady her. “I thought you stopped falling for me.”

“That was horrible,” Marinette pouted at the poor joke, taking his offer to help steady herself. She partly regretted wearing heels, even if they did go great with the dress.

Alya and Nino snickered at the interaction. Alya grinning almost ear from ear as she entwined her arm with Marinette's. “So, when exactly did this happen?” she asked glancing between the two.

“What are you talking about?” Marinette huffed puffing out her red cheeks in a pout. “When did what happen?”

“Come on give me the details, please,” Alya nearly begged shaking her friend lightly. “When did you two become a couple.”

Marinette was about to answer but Adrien cut in before she could. “An alley cat gave her away,” he answered with a small smirk. Marinette giving him a glare her cheeks puffing in a pout. “That and listening to her talk about spaghetti at one in the morning is rather attractive apparently,” he laughed. Gently resting his chin on top of her head, softly resting his arms around her, ever so gently tugging her out of Alya's grasp.

“What?” Nino asked giving his friend a look. “Who talks about spaghetti at one in the morning, who in their right mind is awake that late?”

“My question is what are you two doing together at one in the morning, hmm?” Alya questioned quickly eyeing the blond boy that had happily attached himself to Marinette. “And why am I just hearing this now?”

Marinette felt as though she would surely combust catching Alya's implication quickly. Wiggling out Adrien's grasp. It felt so hot at the moment. “It was not like that!” she defended quickly perhaps louder than she wanted. Covering her face in her hands quickly. “Ugg no, look, I accidentally called him Monday night,” she sighed taking a deep breath. “We just ended up talking on the phone, we were not together, we aren't,” she huffed losing track of her words.

She didn't really know what they were right now. They hadn't really talked about it. They hadn't really had the time to really address everything since the akuma. Marinette wasn't even sure how to address everything that had happened. The secrets they shared. She was still trying to get over the fact she had accidentally confessed right to his face. And he knew about it. Teasing her so openly, making her worry. Sheesh. She wanted to smack the smirk off his face.

Adrien chuckled a little, holding his hands in defense. “Sorry, sorry,” he apologized seeing her pout. She was too cute. He knew they still had to talk about everything, properly talk about it. It had been hard to find the time in-between his schedule, helping plan this party and trying to find time to sleep. Plus he knew she needed her time to relax after everything that had happened. He was sure it wasn't a fun time, she had missed almost a week of school. But healing took time. He knew that, and he just wanted to give her the time and space.

Smiling a little gently taking her hand. “We're still figuring it out,” he answered more honestly. “It's been a hectic couple of weeks hm?” he chuckled a little.

Alya huffed a little giving a small pout. “I was hoping for a juicy story, but I guess I'm not too surprised, Mr. she's just-a-friend,” she sassed with a roll of her eyes.

“So sorry to disappoint,” Marinette snarked dryly earning laughter from her trio of friends.

“Oh I'm sure you'll get a juicy story by the end of the night,” Nino mused with a knowing grin nudging his blond friend. “After all someone still has something to confess right?”

It was Adrien's turn to blush as he was quickly reminded of his own part in the party. The arrangement he made to get them here at all. He let out a small sigh shaking his head lightly.

“We'll get there when we get there,” he grumbled giving his friend a look.

Marinette raised a brow curious to the interaction, wanting to ask about it but her attention was taken before she had the chance. Turning her attention towards Rose who almost ran right into her as she came barreling over.

“We're so happy to see you again Marinette,” Rose flitted with glee as she hugged her friend. “We've really missed you this week, class isn't the same.”

“Yea, nothing exciting happens,” Juleka sighed with a nod.

Marinette laughed a little at the comment. “Well I don't think that's because I wasn't there, I'm not very exciting,” she replied. “I have missed you guys too though, being home all week is dreadfully boring.”

“We can't wait for you to come back,” Rose cheered happily before she pulled, grabbing something from her purse. “Oh yes, this is for you Marinette,” she hummed handing her an envelope. “We all wrote you one, Madame Bustier gave us the idea.”

“Oh, thank you,” Marinette replied carefully taking the envelopes from Rose and Juleka. She wasn't sure what to make of them, honestly they had already done so much. She felt bad for not getting anything in return. They were all going out of their way for her, she would surely have to make it up to them eventually. Nodding to herself lightly before more of her friends and classmates mingled over.

Everyone managing to slip Marinette their own letter as she mingled around. Catching up with everyone about what she missed. And making sure to apologize to them as well as the party went on. Marinette was truly finding herself to have a blast, just being able to talk and see all her friends again, and to see them talk to each other. She had worried when Adrien and Chloe told her they hadn't really been themselves over the past week, worried it was her fault. So seeing everyone chat, play games, dance and just have fun together made her really happy.

Eventually she had mingled more to the side of the party. Taking a break at one of the tables to enjoy some punch and snacks. Still feeling a little emotionally exhausted. Though unable but to help the smile as she read through a couple of the letters she had received that night. She honestly hadn't expected any of this, for them to do something so extravagant. And it just seemed to get better with every new surprise. But she enjoyed the letters, they were each sweet. Even Chloe and Adrien had written her letters. Most were just apology letters, things they were too nervous to say in person, but they truly meant a lot to Marinette.

“All danced out?” Alya asked as she took a seat beside her friend. “I thought Adrien would never let you go,” she laughed a little.

“I wanted a break, and he wanted to help Nino with the music,” Marinette answered glancing over towards the DJ station where their friends were. “It's been kind of a wild night,” she laughed a little nervously, scratching her cheek lightly.

Alya nodded a little in agreement. A small silence falling between them. Fiddling with her hands lightly, trying to figure out her words. Glancing at her friend. Guilt bubbling in her stomach, swallowing her words. Shaking her head lightly taking a breath. She just had to get it over with or else the guilt would never leave.

“I'm really sorry Marinette,” Alya spoke breaking the small silence. Her eyes focused outward at their partying friends. Afraid of the tears that might happen if she looked at her. Afraid it might ruin any composure she still had before she could finish.

“I did and said a lot of hurtful things to you, I was so caught up in Lila's stories that I lost sight of the truth, I let her get to me, and I know I hurt you a lot,” she admitted solemnly. And even as heavy as her words felt it helped remove the weight in her chest. “I know I might not ever be able to really apologize or earn your forgiveness, but I want you to know that I truly am sorry and will try my best never to become like that again, I want to be the friend you deserve, and I know now to really be more critical of what others tell me, and who I should and shouldn't trust.”

Marinette tucked the letters away as she listened to Alya speak. Offering a warm smile. She knew it took a lot of courage for her to apologize, to admit she was wrong.

“It's okay,” she assured after a beat of silence. Nodding a little. “I know I'm not the greatest, and I have my faults too, sometimes I let them get in my own way,” she spoke watching their friends. “I accept your apology, and I know things won't be the same as they once were, but I would never want to stop being your friend Alya,” she assured giving her friend a hug. “You are one of my best friends, always, and we'll both try our best to be better because it's all we can do okay?”

Alya nodded quickly returning the hug, unable to stop her own waterworks. “Yes,” she agreed, staying in the embrace for a moment. Glad to just have her friend back, to know that their friendship wasn't ruined. They both had faults but no one was perfect and that was a lesson Alya had to learn the hard way. But she knew Marinette was a true friend.

“So what exactly is going on between the two of you?” Alya asked as they pulled away. Wiping the tears from her own face lightly. Offering Marinette a napkin to not ruin her makeup. “Please Mari I'm so curious, what happened?”

Marinette couldn't help but laugh. Accepting the help, dabbing at her eyes. She wasn't sure how she still had any tears left. “It's a long story, I don't think we have time tonight,” she giggled. “You're going to have to wait until you get you're not grounded,” she teased lightly, nudging her with her elbow lightly.

Alya groaned rolling her eyes. “It's going to be forever, sheesh it's already been one week and it sucks,” she whined resting her elbows on the table, holding her head in her hands.

“So how long are you grounded exactly?” she asked curious. She had only gotten some snippets from Adrien and Nino. “I take it your parents weren't happy.”

Alya shook her head. “I'm grounded for two more weeks, no computer unless it's for homework and supervised by them or Nora, and phone is limited,” she answered with a small huff. “They were pissed when the school told them I hit you, and it was on camera,” she stated wincing at the memory. “So I'm suspended for another week, your parents helped talk them out of expulsion, which I'm thankful for, so much.”

“I know you didn't mean it, so I had them throw in a good word,” Marinette added with a small nod. They had both acted without thinking. Just the heat of the moment, so she didn't really think Alya needed to be expelled for it. “I offered to go in myself but my parents refused to let me leave until I was fully re-cooperated,” she explained lightly.

“Yea, but I'm glad you're doing better, I'm still out of school for a week but I earned it,” Alya replied with a small sigh. “I did talk to my parents though, about everything that happened, Lila's lies, me being a royal bitch, slapping you, the akuma,” she listed with a frown shrinking in on herself. No one really ever wanted to face their wrongs but she knew she had to. “Honestly it was a miracle they agreed to let me help with this party, but Nino and Adrien came over and helped explain it, that helped, and it felt nice to just talk to them about everything, they helped me see how harmful I was, and gave me ways to make sure it won't happen again, and I know they're punishing me because they love me and I put myself here.”

“I get that,” Marinette spoke with a small nod. “It felt so much better when I told my parents everything, though Mama was upset I didn't tell her everything earlier, but everything truly felt better just letting it out,” she mused lightly with a small smile. Everything just felt so much lighter after getting it all out, or well ninety percent since she still couldn't explain the whole being Ladybug thing. “Mama was about ready to throw hands at Lila, it was kind of funny Papa had to nearly hold her back, luckily he managed to calm her down before she decided to sue the school,” she giggled.

Alya couldn't help but laugh at the thought of Marinette's mother charging into the school full on ready to hit someone. “I could see that, just running in, rolling pin at the ready, one hundred percent ready to beat anyone in her way,” she mused holding her sides from laughing too hard, trying not to fall out of her chair.

Marinette couldn't help but laugh at the image, she would not put it past her mother to do something like that. “I don't know if Papa could ever hold her back if she got that angry,” she laughed. Like she thought her parents had been mad about Chloe's bullying, it had nothing compared to when they heard everything about Lila.

“What did happen with her anyway?” Marinette asked curious. She hadn't heard anything about Lila since the incident. And even then her memory of the day was a blur. All she seemed to remember, was people screaming, crying and Adrien kissed her. Her face tinted red at the memory. She didn't remember it fully but she knew it happened.

“Oh, her mother was full on pissed when everyone left Madame Bustier's room, like she held nothing back,” Alya answered with a small wince. “Like I thought my parents were mad, her mom was on a whole other level, giving her the verbal lashing of a lifetime, and Mr. Damocles was having none of her bullshit either, I honestly thought she was going to murder the man.”

“Oof,” Marinette replied making a face at the thought. “Yea Adrien told me she wasn't pleased, though I'm glad she wasn't akumatized again.”

“Same, gods I don't think any of us could have handled that, again,” Alya sighed with a shake of her head. “But I think she's either suspended for a long time or expelled, I do not know the details, that wasn't shared in the meeting,” she added with a small shrug.

Marinette nodded a little in understanding. She still felt bad for what she did to Lila and her mother but she didn't feel sorry for her getting suspended. It was her own fault, she tried to help her, give her a chance to fix her own mistakes. It wasn't her fault she didn't want to listen. Looking back out at the party, there was a small part of her though that did feel sorry for Lila. Sorry she couldn't have the chance to enjoy the party, the happy smiles, that she couldn't find it in her to just be honest.

“Hey party princess,” Kim butt in as he came up behind Marinette, resting his hands on her shoulders. “You have to come dance okay?” he asked with a grin that Marinette didn't trust.

“Come on Mari, at least one more dance,” Nino pleaded as he slipped in next to Alya with an equally mischievous grin.

“What are you guys planning?” Marinette asked cautiously at her friend's sudden desire for her to dance.

“Nothing but a fun dance, now come on,” Kim laughed easily hoisting his small friend out of her chair. “It's a slow dance so find your boyfriend and lets get to it,” he added quickly pushing her in Adrien's direction.

“Wait he's not,” Marinette tried to protest before she was practically shoved into Adrien. “They're planning something I can feel it,” she mumbled into his arm.

Adrien chuckled a little, helping her find her balance. “I was going to come ask you, they seemed eager to help,” he laughed a little nervously, a small rose tint on his cheeks. Clearing his throat lightly holding a hand out for her. “Would you like to dance?”

Marinette raised a brow at his sudden bashful behavior, now she was definitely suspicious. They had to be planning something but she wasn't sure what. Though she shook it away for a moment, nodding taking his hand.

“Of course,” she answered with a soft smile accepting his offer following him to the dance floor as the music started.

“I should probably tell you, that I may have made a promise,” Adrien mumbled as they fell into a nice rhythm. “That you might get mad at me for, but I figured I should tell you before you find out from someone else.”

“Oh?” Marinette asked looking up at him genuinely intrigued. “What kind of promise?”

“It was the only way they agreed to help with the party,” he answered quietly a little embarrassed to admit what he did. “But like I swear I was going to ask eventually so it's not just because of this,” he sputtered as his nerves picked up.

“Adrien just tell me please,” Marinette asked with a small sigh. She was probably more annoyed with him just not telling her than whatever promise he was talking about. “What did you promise?”

Adrien's face burned red as he realized they had someone managed to be the only couple left on the dance floor. Unable to ignore their classmates eager eyes. Nino's strategic change of music as 'kiss the girl' soon played over the speakers. A part of him truly wanted to crawl in a hole and vanish from sheer embarrassment. Surely Marinette was going to hate him for agreeing to something so silly. He didn't want her to think it was the only reason he was asking her.

“Adrien what is going on?” Marinette mumbled her own face burning as she realized their classmates staring at them. All eyes on them as if waiting for something. What though she didn't know, but he clearly did. “What did you promise?”

Adrien hid his face in his hands, he hadn't thought it'd be this hard. It was easy to talk to her when it was just them but now being expected to ask her out in front of everyone, it was nerve racking. He forced himself to breathe looking at her, nerves spiking seeing her blushed pout. Damn it she was so damn cute.

“Please just tell me,” she asked with a heavy sigh eyes on him. Trying to just ignore their friends for a moment. Focusing on him.

“I promised I'd ask you on a date tonight,” he admitted finally on an exasperated sigh.

Marinette blinked at the answer, momentarily surprised before she just started laughing. She couldn't help it. She found it absolutely adorable he had worked himself up over something so silly. The same boy who flirted with her so casually, that kissed her almost daily for the past week. She couldn't even muster a coherent response before she grabbed his face and pulled him down to give him a kiss smack dab on the lips.

“Of course I'll go on a date with you,” Marinette laughed as she pulled back looking up at him with a smile.

Adrien only managed a dorkish smile momentarily entranced by the sudden kiss. Their classmates cheering them on behind them. The music and party picking up quickly. Friends hurrying to congratulate the newly minted couple. Marinette found it a little amusing how eager everyone was to celebrate such a silly thing.

The festivities quickly picking back up, though it didn't seem to last long before the doors opened. The room falling to a silent hush all eyes turning to the last straggler of the night. No one was quite sure what to make of the late arrival. The young Italian girl who once walked like she owned the earth, now appearing like a meek lost puppy. Shoulders hunched inward, gripping something in her hands as she seemed frozen in the doorway. Unsure if she could even walk in.

“What are you doing here?” Alya hissed out first, glaring at the liar herself.

Lila flinched at the cold tone she received. Scowling, hands gripping tighter around the envelope in her hands. Trying to just keep her composure. She knew this was a stupid idea. She knew she should have never come here. It was too good to be true.

“She was invited,” Adrien spoke up before she could. “We agreed it best not to leave anyone out,” he explained looking towards Lila. Giving her a look that made her want to shrink.

“Lila, we're glad you made it,” Marinette spoke up, hurrying to greet the girl. Trying to ease the cold tension in the room. “There's still lot's of fun things to do, so please come in and enjoy yourself.”

Lila looked at the smiling girl. Trying to find an ounce of a lie. To find something. Just waiting for the trick of it all. For the facade to fall. The sickly sweet words, the warm welcome, she didn't get it. Gripping at the envelope in her hands. After everything that happened. She didn't understand her. After everything she did, she still stood here with a sweet smile and warm welcome. Hell she took the time to write her an apology letter, and had a superhero deliver it to her. She didn't understand it. No one was this nice to be nice.

“I don't understand you,” Lila choked out looking at the smiling girl before her. “I don't get it,” she admitted her voice almost defeated.

Marinette blinked at the response, sure she wasn't expecting nice but, she wasn't expecting this. Lila looked so, disheveled behind the make-up and fine clothes, she could see it in her eyes. She looked genuinely, lost. Frowning a little reaching a hand out to her, resting it on her shoulder carefully.

“What are you talking about?” she asked carefully, concerned.

“After everything I did, everything I said, I don't understand you,” Lila repeated looking at her. “You should hate me, you shouldn't greet me with a smile, or even have let them invite me, so I don't get it.”

“Lila, I don't hate you,” Marinette replied softly. “I may not agree with what you have done, the things you said, and yes, I got mad and upset but I don't hate you,” she assured with a small nod. “Lila I want to help you, to be your friend, it's what I wanted when I first met you, but you chose to lie and hurt me and my friends, and for that I couldn't stand you,” she explained her face hardening a little at the thought. “But I believe you can change, I believe everyone can change for the better.”

Lila stared at her eyes wide as she listened to her speak. Nearly ripping the envelope in her hands in half from her shaking. She couldn't understand it. Wiping at her face with the back of her hand bowing her head again. How could this have happened?

Marinette let out a small sigh seeing her start to cry. “Lila, we just want to know you, the real you,” she spoke. “But before we can do that, you have to be honest, not just with us, but with yourself too,” she added softly with a reassuring smile. “We're all willing to be your friends but first you have to accept what you did, and it has to be something you want too.”

Lila scowled a little as she shook out of her grasp. Forcing the envelope into Marinette's hands. “Just take this stupid thing,” she snarled keeping her eyes down. Unable to stop her tears. “That mangy cat gave me your stupid letter,” she snapped with bitter words. “I don't even care about this stupid party.”

Lila wiped her face as she quickly turned on her heel walking back out of the room. She did what she came for. She gave her the stupid letter, she didn't need anything else. She didn't need their pity. She didn't need them to see her cry.

“Lila wait,” Marinette called watching Lila hurry out the door. Hurrying after her before she was stopped by Chloe. “Let me go, I want to go talk to her.”

“She has to come to terms with herself first, you can't push her,” Chloe stated calmly letting go of her arm. “She wants it, and will come around eventually but she has to make that journey on her own.”

Marinette frowned a little but she knew Chloe was right. It would be useless to go after her again. She wasn't going to listen to it. Letting out a breath, nodding.

“I guess you're right,” Marinette agreed with a solemn nod. It still hurt, she didn't want Lila to feel left out over something like this. She had hoped she'd stay at least a little.

“Trust me I've been there done that,” Chloe retorted with a roll of her eyes earning a laugh from their classmates. “Come on now let's get back to the party.”

Marinette nodded turning back to their classmates. Following Chloe back into the crowd as the music and fun picked back up. Though Marinette found it a little hard to celebrate after seeing Lila leave in a such a state. But she tried, making her way back towards Adrien.

“Cheer up, it'll be okay,” Adrien assured wrapping an arm around her.

“I just wish she could have stayed, had some fun,” Marinette sighed leaning into him, wrapping her arms around him. “She looked so lost.”

“I think she just needs some time, Chloe's right we can't force her,” Adrien soothed calmly. “To be honest I'm surprised she showed up at all, she threw us out of her apartment,” he admitted with a small laugh. Watching as Chloe seamlessly slipped out of the room. “She'll come around eventually.”

“It's just, it hurts.”

“We've done what we could, all we can do is keeping looking forward and hope she gets the help she needs,” Adrien stated with a nod kissing her head lightly.

Marinette let out a large sigh burying her face against him. She knew he was right and a part of her hated it. But she knew there wasn't anything else she could possibly do. Just hope she'd come around eventually.

****

Marinette smiled as she looked out at the streets of Paris. Enjoying the soft breeze that came by as they sat atop of Notre Dame, though careful to be out of view from the public eye. Often a good patrol spot. The party had lasted for a few hours before everyone was tired out and their parents called them home. All agreeing to return in the morning to help clean up, which the hotel staff agreed with when Chloe stepped in on the conversation. Even with the small hiccup in between they all seemed to have a good time. Which Marinette was glad to know, though she still wished they all could have enjoyed the party. Eyes flickering to the bustling streets, even at night Paris never seemed to stop.

“See I was right,” Adrien mused taking a seat beside her. Handing her a hot coco, extra whipped cream of course. “I told you that you would have fun.”

“Yes, I suppose you were right about that,” she giggled eyes flicking back to him, gladly taking the warm drink. “It was a fun party.”

He smiled taking a drink of his coffee. “I think everyone had a really good time, I'm glad we did it,” he mused with a small nod, setting his drink beside him.

“Hmm, it was a really good idea, you and Chloe worked really hard,” she agreed taking a drink of her coco, enjoying the warmth in her hands. “I think it helped everyone.”

“Even Lila,” he added looking up towards the starry sky, leaning back on his hands. “I know it didn't seem like it, but I think she genuinely wants to move forward too.”

“Hmm, I think she can,” she agreed with a small nod. Watching the people below them on the illuminated streets. Couples walking hand in hand, friends laughing and talking. Just enjoying the simple things she thought. She always did enjoy the view from the rooftops. “But I think she has to figure out who she is first.”

“Exactly, but I think she's working on getting a friend who can help with that,” he mused sitting a little straighter. “Someone who's been in her shoes too, which I think is good for both of them.”

Marinette smiled nodding. “Yes, I couldn't agree more.”

“Oh you know, now I think of it, I have something for you,” Adrien spoke up as he suddenly remembered.

“I don't know if I can handle anymore surprises,” Marinette laughed a little watching him dig into his pockets.

“Well you gave me such a sweet gift, it's only right I return the gesture,” he replied as he finally found it. “Hold your hand out.”

She raised a brow but complied holding her hand out. “Is it something silly?” she asked curious seeing his cat like grin.

“You'll like it,” he assured setting the small gift in her palm. “I worked really hard on it, Plagg even helped too.”

Marinette was curious as she took the small gift wrapped box. A small jewelry box wrapped in ladybug wrapping with a black ribbon. It was cute she thought.

“I know it's not the same, but I couldn't find the right beads, and I wanted to make it better,” Adrien explained watching her unwrap the gift. He had felt terrible when he found out her other one had gotten cut up, and akumatized. So he hoped to make her a new one, with hopefully better memories attached. “And look I added a special charm for good luck,” he grinned as she pulled out the new charm bracelet.

Marinette actually teared up when she opened the small box to reveal a newly made charm bracelet. It wasn't the same as the first though very similar. Unable to stop the smile, giggling a little as she spotted the new charm. A little black cat on the end.

“What's a ladybug without her kitty?” he mused with a grin before she bombarded him with a hug, knocking them both back onto the rooftop. Causing both teens to burst into a fit of laughter.

“Thank you Adrien,” she giggled trying to catch her breath from laughter. Words truly couldn't describe the pure joy she felt in the moment. Neither making the effort to move from their fallen spot. “Thank you for everything,” she mused leaning down to give him a soft kiss.

“Anytime My lady,” he hummed happily returning the blissful kiss. “I'll always be here for you, no matter what happens.”

“Even through the bumps and bruises,” she mused patting his cheek softly. “No matter where we go?”

“We're a team always,” he agreed with a grin looking up at her enjoying her smile. “Anywhere we go, we'll do it together.”

“Pinky promise?” she giggled holding up her pinky.

“Pinky promise.”