Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Another day another lie.

Marinettes had to avoid trying to slip all throughout the school day. Alix and Kim have decided to stick out their foot conveniently whenever Marinette was walking by.

Honestly at this point Marinette was willing to throw in the towel and just bloody transfer to Madame Curie Preparatory. Even though the costs were more higher than Dupont,Marinette was confident she could get a Scholarship in the Arts Program, Or she could take even more commissions from her MDC website. Maybe Fangs needed a few more custom outfits? Quickly shaking off any more distracting thoughts Marinette looked both ways of the busy crossroads before quickly crossing and making her way to the small but popular Bakery.

“Marinette darling there came in a package for you,your papa placed it into your room for you”

“Thanks Maman” Placing a quick kiss on her Mamans cheek and hugging her father she dashed to her room.

She had just ordered a new Ombre fabric for her next commission. A beautiful dress for Nadia, She had an upcoming Banquet, she was going as a correspondent. There were even rumors that a few foreigners would attend. She was itching to get started with the skirt,the bodice was almost completed just needed a bit of embroidery.

Her hopes however were dashed when she pushed open the loft door and saw a package that was too small to be the amount of fabric she ordered.
Quickly she opened her purse allowing Tikki to zoom out. Giving her a cookie Marinette plopped down in her chair ready to Open Her packa-

“Marinette WAIT!!!” Suddenly Tikki zoomed in front of her

“WHATWHATWHAT?!” Marinette had to quickly try to get a grip on the package while trying to hopefully plant her feet to the floor at the same time.

“You can’t just open a weird package without looking on the outside what if it's an Akuma also may you please STOP SHAKING THE PACKAGE!!!” Marinette sheepishly put the package down however sparing another glance to the package she could judge the size couldn't possibly be anything too serious.

“Sorry and what's there to worry about we would have heard about an akuma by now” Marinette plucked a pair of scissors from a canister and opened one of the sides to her confusion only a thinly boxed package slid out.

Quickly she pried the box open and an orange envelope slid out. Tikki was eerily quiet behind her and remained floating there. She opened the envelope and out popped a sheet of paper. The paper was thick but old as well. With a quick glance behind to make sure no uninvited parents come in she went to reading the title.

Paternity Test of Marinette Cheng-Wayne

As Requested by the alleged mother Miss Alexie Cheng the DNA test was followed through with discreetly obtained DNA of the man at question Bruce Wayne. Marinette Cheng-Wayne is the biological child of Alexie Cheng and Bruce Wayne. The following DNA test was done with discreet. Custody of the child will be given to Sabine Cheng and Tom Dupain without the knowledge of the Father Bruce Wayne. Who is not in an adequate position to raise the child.

Signed
Miranda T.
What.The.FUU-

"MAMAN!!"

"PAPA!!!"

Chapter Text

After the bombshell was dropped on them in the form of a package, Marinette had a heart to heart with her Parents. Like come on just because They're not her BIOLOGICAL parents doesn't mean her love for them has changed or diminished in any form or manner. But still, there is pain present. 

“Mama then how is it that I still look like your child?” It came out as a whisper but by the look of Mamas' face, you would think that Marinette screamed it.

Releasing a sigh Sabine started “You are my niece, remember your aunt Alexie?”

Tom whos have been standing by quietly suddenly cut in 
“She was your mom, I knew her she was a Fencer, a dang great one at that, She went to America for a competition. When she came back she was constantly sick, soon we found out that she was pregnant-- with you” 

At this point, Marinette was still struggling to process that her parents weren't her parents but some form of common sense came in and she butted in 

“Is that why she never visited? Where is she now?” 

Marinette was suddenly enveloped in a hug

“Mama then how is it that I still look like your child?” It came out as a whisper but by the look of Mamas' face, you would think that Marinette screamed it.

Releasing a sigh Sabine started “You are my niece, remember your aunt Alexie?”

Tom whos have been standing by quietly suddenly cut in 
“She was your mom, I knew her she was a Fencer, a dang great one at that, She went to America for a competition. When she came back she was constantly sick, soon we found out that she was pregnant-- with you” 

At this point, Marinette was still struggling to process that her parents weren't her parents but some form of common sense came in and she butted in 

“Is that why she never visited? Where is she now?” 

Marinette was suddenly enveloped in a hug

“Mari my sweet child, she died when you were 4 in a boating accident, that's why we could never dare take you on a boat” Pulling herself back she saw Marinette's jaw was wide open and her normally pale skin had now taken on a red hue and worst of all her breaths were coming in short small gasps.

Marinette felt her mamas' delicate arms leave her however she quickly felt her Papas arms around her, she couldn't help but lean into the crook of her arms. For once not caring about Hawkmoth she leaned in and allowed for tears to fall.

She shook her head to avoid anymore intruding memories.                                                                  “Who's my biological father? What about my mother? Why was I given up”                                               And of course,
“Where the heck did those papers come from?”

Marinette quickly had to shake her head before any thoughts crossed into betrayal, Hawkmoth was always lurking. One of his akumas might somehow find out and that would be another hailstorm that Marinette is NOT ready to deal with. Preferably for a few decades.

 Marinette could feel anxiety pulsing through her. What Marinette SHOULD worry about is figuring out the origins of the papers, yet her mind raced with thoughts concerning her origins. Of course, life would throw another problem at her. 

She was only just getting over her recently achieved loneliness, in-class anyways (Chloe, Kagami, and Luka were awesome). Lilas's tears have proved to be the most effective weapon against her. Practically everyone has turned against her, save for Juleka and Max. Marinette had the suspicion that some of the other kids were doubting Lila yet said nothing.

Marinette regrets not following Nathaniel's lead and switching to Mendeleev's class. HE had to transfer after Lila spread some vicious rumors that Nathaniel was trying to get in between Mylene and Ivan. 
The rest of the kids were starting to resort to calling Nathaniel names such as “Cheat”,” Stink” or “Wannabe”. Lo and behold Nathaniel soon transferred into the same class as Marc. Praise for small miracles. 

Marinette has had an obsession with planning and organizing. She was also obsessed with gaining information. Which is why her laptop was now filled with files on her father. Bruce Wayne.

He had 4 sons and a daughter. They're all adopted it seemed. Creepily enough most of them had the same features as her, blue eyes and black hair. However, the eye color changed, one had green eyes.

No one should doubt that Marinette didn't have a file on all of them by now. Yet Bruce Wayne's file was the largest, from his playboy escapades to his Philanthropic pursuits. He was a complicated figure.

Still, Marinette couldn't help but stare at the image of the man. Seeing the same blue eyes staring back at her Marinette couldn't help but search for other similarities. With a sigh, Marinette decided to add that picture to her file on him. Looking around for something to distract her...

Ah, Bingo she still had to finish the dress for Nadia Chammacks banquet. The fabric finally came in and she was half done with the skirt now. A few details more and she could go deliver it. Quickly picking up her scissors she got to work. 

Batcave
Gotham City U.S.A
6:35 pm

“Bruce you gotta see this.” Tim quickly swiveled around and moved to allow Bruce to look at it.

An alert has been activated. Bruce quickly swooped in. Someone has started researching him and his kids to the point that one of the many safeguards he had set off an alert. 

Bruce's paranoia has seeped into their civilian life as well. He has implemented safeguards in which they can detect when someone has obsessively researched individual members of the family. Thanks to the program he has been able to prevent kidnappings or at the very least have been able to give them a heads up.

Bruce implemented the system shortly after Jason was kidnapped from a school field trip and It took Batman THREE days to rescue him. Batman found out that beforehand the crooks have obsessively researched Jason. In less than a week he had the alarm system up and running.

Is that breach in privacy laws? Yes Does Bruce regret it? No. 

Bruce was now worried, all the research was being done in France. Could a criminal organization be attempting to kidnap his kids? Over his dead body.

Luckily Tim had already found the I.P address and the people who lived there. A certain Tom Dupain and Sabine Cheng, Bakers it seemed, and there daughter Marinette Dupain Cheng. 

After quickly figuring out more information, Bruce was able to eventually figure out it was most likely Marinette Dupain-Cheng. Quickly pulling up public records on her Bruce had to hack into school records. While that revealed that she was enrolled when she was 11 and that she was an occupied student with many clubs and organizations along with an intelligent student. He found a website that she made for commissions. Fashion commissions. Odd. 

“Bruce checks this out she's designed for Jagged Stone AND Clara Nightingale” Tim exclaimed while frantically looking up pictures of them wearing her design during concerts, galas, banquets, etc. Bruce couldn't help but feel a bit impressed the embroidery seemed to have been hand-stitched. The fabrics all blended nicely together and still fit into Jagged Stones’ Rock persona. nononono he must not allow for himself to get distracted from the fact that that girl was obsessively researching him and his family along with having FILES on them. Leaving Tim to continue his crusade although Bruce now had the sneaking suspicion that he was fangirling a bit on the inside but, who was he to judge, he’ll die before he'd ever admitted it but he also loved the designs and might've commissioned her for a dress for Selina, a black one with some form of a cat detail, he already had the EXACT measurements maybe ev-

“Holy Fuck BRUCE GET OVER HERE” making a quick turn around back to the computer. A glance at the computer revealed a picture of the girl. Tim, however, kept on pulling out files upon files. Custody, Immigration a death certificate adopti-

“OhmygoshohmygoshyouhavetocallDicktellhimtocomebackfromBludhavenor-’’ Quickly turning around the chair Tim was sitting in making sure he wouldn't freak out.

“Tim Breath what's wrong?” Making sure to maintain eye contact with the boy

Finally, Tim started to talk in understandable sentences

“Bruce, Marinette Dupain-Cheng was adopted when she was still 7 months old, her mother was a fencer named Alexie Cheng. She came to the U.S for an International fencing competition in 2004.” Tim was looking at him in the eyes without blinking unfazed. 

“Bruce, what were you busy doing in 2004?” Tim asked with a lowered voice while still maintaining eye contact.

Oh, God. No way. Please no. He's already had enough kids.

Dick is going to be ecstatic  
Jason is going to be ecstatic but due to a different reason (oh god the jokes)
Tim won't realize a new addition until it interferes with him and his caffeine
Cassandra will probably be happy to have a sister especially if they share a heritage
Damian will probably challenge the poor girl to duel especially if he thinks that shes another threat to his blood child claim.  

Alfred. Oh god, Alfred is going to kill him if he doesn't check this lead out. Another Possible Grandchild for the poor man. 
 
Oh right possible kid and it seemed like Tim was talking

“Bruuuuuucccccceee you okay?”

“Yes Yes I am fine,” totally a lie but he's going to allow himself that. 

“Sure and I'm not sleep-deprived, anyways check this out.” Quickly pulling up a picture of Marinette and a picture of her mother Alexie Cheng along with a Picture of Bruce. 

With a long look at the three pictures, Tim was able to point out a bunch of similarities between The girl and Bruce. They had the same eye color, nose, and chin. 

It seemed like they were related but the best way to figure that out would be a paternity test. 

“Bruce how the heck are we gonna get the DNA to perform a paternity test?”

“Father, why are you and Drake Discussing this child?”

Crap. Bruce had forgotten that Damian was about to get ready for Patrol.

“Damian get ready for patrol I'll discuss everything when you get home”

“Tt”  Luckily Damian simply walked away only after taking a long glance at the computer screens. 
“Well, what are we gonna do about this Bruce?” Tim asked with a bit of apprehension. No way was Bruce going to go to Paris Just to get a DNA sample. Would he?

Who was Tim kidding? Yes, he would.

Chapter Text

Tim was honestly shocked. Less than 24 hours after the discovery of a potential new daughter Bruce already had a business trip planned for Paris, under the guise of it being for Wayne International. The lengths this man would go to just to abate his Paranoia. Oh and he's going to bring Dick and Damian along. At least he won't have to worry about fending off the gremlin. Tim doesn't pray much but maybe he should throw a prayer just this once.

“We're going to attend a few dinners mostly to form connections for Wayne International, but we're going to a banquet for Journalists and Reporters, make sure you and Jason patrol ton-” 

“Why are you attending a banquet for Journalists ?” Tim cut him off.

“ Because that's where Marinette is going to be, She designed a dress for Nadja Chammack who is a Respected reporter in Paris so she received an invitation” Bruce finished off as if that was the obvious reason. Jeez, stalker much?

Of course, Dick decided to make his entrance, handsprings and all.

“I've got my bags packed, and my French is polished enough to where I won't insult or accidentally flirt with anyone…..hopefully” Dick couldn't help but cringe when he said that. Oh god, the Embarrassment . Dick couldn't wait to get arrive in Paris. He also had a mission of his own. No Secret Children though.         

“Your French should be more than polished , wasn't that one of your required classes in the Academy?” Bruce called out but he couldn't help the small smirk. Even that story amused him.

 “Relax B I’m kidding I can still flirt and insult people in French don't worry” Dick was indeed fluent in Romani, English, Spanish, German, Russian and French. Plus he had a decent enough understanding in various other languages.

Dick's attention quickly shifted once he noticed that Tim was standing next to his lab set.                     “Timmy!!! Why in the world are you not going to Paris, The city of Love mind you, with us?” 

“Someone has to take care of Gotham and Wayne Industries.” Tim quickly reminded him. Tim didn't feel like including the part where he was threatened by Alfred to rest. If anything Dick would take up arms and join Alfred.

“What a bore, Don't worry ill bring you a souvenir back?” Dick said while patting Tims back.

“Master Dick, Would you please head upstairs and prepare to leave for the Airport? Master Damian is already there waiting for you.” Alfred ordered.

“Thanks, Alfie, Bye Timmy, promise me that you’ll at least get 4 hours of sleep,” Dick stated while quickly giving Tim a hug. Tim won't ever hide, he loved hugs from Dick. They made him feel safe and loved. Bruce quickly made his way upstairs but not before giving Tim a pat. 

“No promises, good luck”                                                                                                 

You’re gonna need it

Collège Françoise Dupont                                                                                                         

Paris, France                                                                                                                           

11:45 a.m 

Ms.Bustier was currently trying to give a lesson on the impact of the French Revolution on the Education system. Marinette was honestly distracted by coming up for an outfit she wanted to wear for the Journalism Banquet. The keyword was trying Alya and Lila kept on giggling in the front

“Oh my gosh did you hear that Richard Grayson is going to come to Paris” Now that had Marinette's attention, If Richard Grayson was coming couldn't that possibly mean that Bruce Wayne is coming too? This could be her chance. She will try to talk to him. All she has to do is find out where Richard Grayson is going to be and pray that he would somehow lead the way to Bruce Wayne.

“You're so lucky Lila, you're going to get to go to Wayne manor” Rose squealed, Marinette could practically see the stars in Roses’ eyes. 

“Oh my gosh, Lila do you think you'll get me an interview with one of them? Imagine the type of traffic an interview with a Wayne could attract to my website” Alya could picture it happening and couldn't wait for it. 

Marinette had to resist the temptation to snort. Unbeknownst to Alya, she used to have an interview with a potential member of the Wayne Family, her.

“Wait aren't they going to a Banquet for Journalists?” Piped up Chloe oh ever so helpfully. She was the Mayors Daughter, of course, she got a courtesy invite and of course, she handed it over to Aurore and promptly demanded another one. What could she say, Marinette had made a positive impact on her...Mostly. She had friends now. She only barley considered Adrien a friend only because of there history.

“Shouldn't you know this Alya, You were a Journalist, up until you got blacklisted anyways” Nino decided to add his own two cents.

“Oh Ninny don't you realize of course Alya wouldn't notice it she was too busy interviewing me” Lilas sickly sweet voice oozed out but not everyone was buying it. Especially Marinette. She knew better.

Lila was having a slightly more difficult time keeping her control over the class these days. Lila only wanted one thing and that was control. Except that now that Stupid bakery girl was interfering way more than she possibly thought. She's losing control of the class and worst of all Hawkmoth hadn't sent her an Akuma for the longest time. She either needed to get herself upset or make someone else upset enough and take the Akuma for herself.

“Alya after the banquet ill be meeting Dami-poo, he desperately wants to keep our relationship a secret for the time being.” Alya she’ll always have her under her control at least.

Marinette couldn't wait. She had a plan of action now at least. And best of all she now had Chloe, Kagami, and Aurore on her side.

Hopefully, Luck will be on her side

Chapter Text

Marinette did an extra twirl for the mirror. She had loved the feeling of the fabric on the dress, She made sure to put in extra effort into the dresses of the night, although not too much, she still wanted Nadia Chamack to be the highlight.

Her work on covering how the Frequent Akuma attacks were affecting the everyday Parisian psyche was getting recognition from the International Journalism community. She could hear her Mother greeting Chloe and Aurore downstairs. Making sure to put on the finishing touches of her makeup, she quickly grabbed her newly bought purse and put in a few macarons for Tikki. Tikki quickly swooped in and settled herself in the secret compartment. She quickly opened her cellar door to allow Chloe and Aurore up.

“Netti~ that dress of yours is truly exceptional” Aurore gushed while grabbing Marinette's hand and twirling her around. Marinette's’ Dress had a more professional style since it was a formal event. The skirt reached above her knees and the top was gray and the skirt was white. The Cape, however, was white as well. The dress was formal but still had a twist like all of her MDC designs. Marinette felt sophisticated, for once. 

Suddenly her Mamans’ head popped up, she pushed herself up and that was when Marinette noticed she was carrying a small box.

“Chloe, Aurore, Tom has a few pastries and hot chocolate prepared for you two downstairs, Chloe dear I believe he has prepared a few cheese and berry danishes as well…...” Sabine teased with a knowing smile, Chloe's love for Cheese and Berry danishes were well known throughout the Dupain Cheng household.

‘MIIINNNEEEE thankyouthankyouthankyouu” Chloe squealed, quickly dragging Aurore down the cellar door opening.

Marinette couldn't help but shake her head at Chloe's antics. Honestly, that girl will probably hand over government secrets just for a plate of those Danishes.

“Marinette Honey, I have something I want to give you that once belonged to your mother Alexei.” She gently handed her the small jewelry box.

Gently opening the box Marinette couldn't help but gasp when it revealed a gold armband that was decorated with thin golden leaves. Her mother gently lifted it out and clasped it onto Marinette's arm. It matched perfectly with the dress. 

Over the last few days, Sabine has been giving Marinette jewelry, clothing and other stuff that once belonged to Alexei. Some of the clothing was too big but Marinette is nothing but a miracle worker when it comes to upcycling. 

Marinette had Alexeis’ old fencing uniform set up in the corner. Maybe Marinette should take up Fencing next year? And Actually focus on it and not do it for the sake of a boy. A spineless cowardly boy.

Quickly hugging her Maman and whispering a thank you, Marinette climbed down the cellar door after her Maman. 

Once in the living room, Marinette spotted Chloe inhaling Danishes and Aurore frantically pressing buttons on her game controller, trying to beat her Papa, and her papa was winning. 

"NOOOO HOW'D YOU EVEN DO THAT!?" Aurore practically screamed, Tom had used a cheat and managed to beat Aurore ruthlessly.  With her head hanging low, she stood up and walked towards Marinette Marinette thought she saw the shadow of a pout. Chloe quickly joined them after one last gulp of hot chocolate.

"Mr.Dupain I hope one day you will teach me your ways," Aurore asked with admiration. 

Giggling at her friend's antics Marinette quickly kissed her dad and Her Maman before pulling them out the doorway. Marinette was grateful for her friends and parents. However, she was less grateful whenever she saw signs that her room was slowly getting taken over by Chloe. Seriously she had already called dibs on the top bunk and had covered it with Custommade Queen bee sheets.

“Girls are we Queens or are we, Queens?” Chloe asked with a flair. She knew damn well they all looked bloody gorgeous. Quickly making sure to open the limos’ door, Chloe Bourgeois goes all out or nothing, she practically shoved Aurore and Marinette in. Quickly they sped off but not before making a quit stop to pick up Kagami. Chloe did not stutter when she saw Kagami in her dress thank you very much . Still, Chloe couldn’t help but keep stealing glances at her while in the limo what can she say she liked red.

Aurore and Marinette couldn’t help but look at them in Exasperation. Really could they not save the ogling until after they were out of the limo? 

Marinette quickly turned around and decided to content herself by staring out the window. She couldn’t help but be nervous, now would be a perfect time to tell the girls about her discovery around her origins. She knew they could keep it a secret heck they would probably help her in her endeavor to find and talk to Mr.Wayne. Still she was worried. What if they looked at her differently, not as Sabine and Toms child, but as the child of Bruce Wayne? 

“We’re here~” Chloe loudly announced the door was quickly opened and the girls were helped out. Thanking Jean-Paul, Marinette followed the girls in. 

Grand Paris Hotel

Paris City

8:15 pm

Bruce was quickly adjusting his cuffs.

 He then proceeded to help Damian with his, despite his protests. 

“Father I can do them myself” although Damian didn’t fight it off as much. After assuring himself that the Cuffs would meet Alfreds Standards, Bruce couldn’t help but make sure that Dicks tie was well adjusted, although he didn’t protest it all of course. Quickly taking a final glance around the suite he quickly ushered Damian out and followed leaving Dick to lock the suite's door. Soon they were situated in a limo that was provided to them by the representatives of Wayne's Industries Paris Branch. 

 Dick couldn't hide his excitement. He might have another little sister

“Oh my gosh, I can't wait to see this kid. What if she is a Wayne kid. I'll get another little sister, ohmygosh I'm going to have to introduce her to Wally, Artemis, Zatana and ohgeeezzz Babs I-”

“Grayson shut up or I will” Damian bit out. Honestly, Damian wasn't happy at the fact that he might have another blood relative. At least he's older and obviously far better. He's a superhero and an heir to the League.

 Bruce could tell that Damian was a bit Miffed about the fact that there might be another Wayne Blood child and worse off she was a girl. Thank god that they weren't that different age-wise. 

Once they arrived, they quickly stepped out. Damian was flagged by Dick and Bruce. Once inside Bruce was immediately approached by an overeager mayor.

"Mr.Wayne We are so deeply honored to have you join us this night. Please Please if you have anything you need us to do to make your evening more comfortable please feel free to inform me" Mayor Bourgeois urged although he didn't seem to want to stop shaking Bruce's hand anytime soon. 

"Mayor Bourgeois Please allow me to introduce you to my Sons, This is my oldest son Richard and this is my youngest Damian" Bruce quickly pried his hand out of Bourgeois' grip to push Dick and Damian in front of him.                                                                    Yes, he knew that it was very dirty of him to sacrifice his sons to Andre Bourgeois but honestly Bruce was keen on finding Dupain-Cheng. Although that didn't stop Dick from sending him a glare.

Quickly walking off he started walking around and occasionally stopped to chat with Journalists or Businessmen. He quickly passed two blondes who were too busy talking to another Journalis-Hold up. 

"Lois Kent? I didn't expect to see you here tonight?" Oh god, Bruce has the worst luck. If she was here that most likely meant that boy scout wasn't far away.

"Bruce Wayne, I was invited to attend. I am a respected Journalist outside of the States, also I have the assignment to cover in Brussels concerning recent events within the United Nations " Lois couldn't help but be entertained by his slight confusion. Lois and Clark have received recognition and awards for their work, especially since certain people like to take some of the most dangerous jobs. Lois used to take extremely dangerous assignments up until she got pregnant, now she only takes slightly dangerous jobs.

Yes , there is a difference. No matter what Jon says. Before she can even tell Bruce that Clark was still at home with Jon, he hurriedly shook her hand goodbye.

"well,we will have to catch up later Lois" I have to go.

"That's Fine Bruce." Do what you have to do. Lois quickly turned her attention back to Ms.Aurore and Ms.Bourgeois and went back to answering their questions surrounding Journalism.

Bruce had caught a glimpse of blue hair while he was talking to Lois. Still scanning the crowd he was able to catch another glimpse of Dick and Damian who both seemed to be still stuck in a conversation with Bourgeois. About to take a quick turn he suddenly bumped into someone. Grabbing the arms out of instinct. He quickly steadied them slightly crouched down due to the short stature of the person. He suddenly looked up. With a jolt of realization, he realized that he was staring into familiar baby blue eyes.

His but on someone else face.

Chapter Text

Bruce was slightly shocked. Never before has he looked at the vivid blue eyes from a different perspective, other than a mirror. Taking a long glance he suddenly realized that there was no way that she wasn't his child. God his parents now had another grandchild. They would've adored her as well.

“Hello Marinette” Bruce finally decided to rasp out, still maintaining his hand on Marinette's shoulder.   God, she looked so much like his mother.

“M-M-Mr.Wayne, I’msosorry” Marinette couldn't breathe. Here he was right in front of her. How the heck should she respond to him? Starting with “Hey there I’m the child that you never knew, who was raised by bakers, is a fashion designer oh!!! She also has a parttime job as a Parisian Female SUperheroe who wields a very powerful magical artifact. Yeah no. She was not gonna start with that. Not unless she wanted her new home to be a mental institution, heh at least she could be comforted by the thought that her parents would sneak in pastries.

For once in his life Bruce was speechless. What the heck should he say? Hello, I'm your billionaire biological father, who during the day is a Bumbling exhausted father and during the day dresses up as a bat and fights Gotham's crazies. Oh!! I also have an ex-Britsh spy as a butler, an ex-trapeze acrobat, an ex-crime lord, a coffee addicted sleep-deprived CEO and an ex-assassin as son. A Mute Ex-Warrior as a daughter.She would probably run for the hills. If she could even run. She was so tiny and small and fragile. A gust of wind might blow her off her feet.

“Marinette would you mind talking in private?” he finally asked. Marinette seemed to spend a few seconds contemplating it. 

“Is it for the same reason I have for coming to this banquet?” she finally asked. Marinette wanted to say yes, she had so many questions, and her curiosity was intrigued. If Mr.Wayne was there then that must mean that he also made the same discovery. But how is the question.

Did he also get a mystery package as well? If she went with him that would mean she would have to explain everything to Chloe, Kagami, and Aurore. Last time she saw them they went off to talk to some Journalists. Although she did spot Kagami walking towards the dessert table. Oh, what the heck. what did she have to lose? Making up her mind she finally looked up to make eye contact with him.

“Ye-” She never got the chance to finish. The Whoosh of an explosion went off.

Bruce instantly reacted. He pulled Marinette towards him and quickly ducked under a table, using his own body to shield her. Marinette was able to maneuver around him and see that the opposite wall was blown out revealing a hole. She could make out the outline of a Girl gosh she was an Akuma. Why now? Seriously Hawkmoth couldn't have waited till after she said yes. Seriously she won't need her ladybug powers when she finally goes face to face with him. 

"I AM COUNTERATTACK FROM NOW ON I WON'T BE BEATEN SO EASILY, ILL MAKE IT SO EVERYONE IS TOO WEAK OR POWERLESS TO EVER DEFEAT ME AT ANYTHING"

Seriously Counterattack. Was Hawkmoth on the verge of creative burnout? And another knight suit inspired Akuma?

Glancing around Marinette quickly realized an issue. She couldn't get out from under Mr.Wayne. So that would mean that she won't be able to sneak away to transform. Making sure to glance around she saw a man come up and quickly drag a kid behind him. Only for “counterattack” to reappear right in front of them. She felt Mr.Waynes Grip on her loosen when he turned his focus on the two boys. Those two must be Dick and Damian. His sons.Bingo. She took a few seconds to steel her game face. Quickly shifting she grabbed Mr.Wayne's hand and made sure to face him.

“Mr.Wayne we have to get out of here we can't risk getting hit by her, who knows what will happen to us!?” Marinette whispered making sure to weave in a quiver, just for an added effect. Seriously she should get an Oscar for all her performances. Mr.Wayne seemed to scrutinize her but only for a second before nodding. Quickly they got up and He pushed Marinette in front of him making sure to keep up.

A second blast stole away Mr.Waynes attention. Jumping on the chance Marinette quickly dove under the table.

“Tikki Spots on”

Diving out as her alter ego. Marinette quickly launched her yoyo towards Counterattack. She took a quick detour to shove the Wayne boys out of the way of an imminent blast. Counterattack was fast. Extremely fast. Where the heck was Chat Noir?

Using her yoyo as a shield she was able to see that the helmet that was the most likely location of the Akuma. Counterattacks blasts were getting far too close. She had to use a lucky charm although it was a bit too early. 

“Lucky Charm!!!”

Bruce was slightly frantic. He lost one of his kids in the confusion and Two of his sons were facing off with the monster. Normally he wouldn't be worried, except right now they are Damian Al-Ghul Wayne and Richard Grayson. Just as the thing started to aim at them a person in a red outfit suddenly pushed them out of the way. 

They seemed to be struggling a bit. Was she fighting with a yo-yo of all things?! She seemed to have powers based on a magical aspect. He’ll have to ask Zatanna, Constantine or even god forbid Shazam. Taking a glance he saw that Dick had managed to pull Damian out through one of the holes. Diverting his attention back to the fight he noticed that suddenly the hero had a Laser beam cat toy. Soon she flashed it over the Monsters' eye and with her disabled, she was able to dodge and finally able to leap over the monsters' head.

She yanked the helmet and quickly broke it enough to cause a crack. A Black butterfly emerged from the helmets crack the girl quickly absorbed? The butterfly and a white butterfly emerged. Taking a final glance around she finally threw the laser beam into the sky while seeming to yell out “MIRACULOUS LADYBUG.” Bruce watched before his eyes as everything damaged or unturned was suddenly transformed back to the way it was. The girl quickly yo-yoed away. Bruce quickly shook his head and went off to try and find his kids.

ALL his kids.

Chapter Text

Marinette quickly dove behind a wall and quickly transformed back. Only to run smack dab into Chat. Honestly? Marinette had lost all respect for him. Ever since he started to show up to fights late, sometimes he didn't even show up at all!!!

He soon started to be less careful when it came to making sure that there aren't any civilian casualties, he's started to put too much faith in her Miraculous Ladybug. Expecting it to fix everything. Marinette could take comfort in the fact that Master Fu is going to have a talk with Chat in his civilian identity. Master Fu even confided in her that he might take away his ring. Marinette was honestly hoping that it would come to that. Marinette has been feeling like she's the only Hero in Paris.  

“Hey Princess, Seems Like I’m A little late for the fight eh?” Chat said while blatantly Blocking Marinette's Path. Talk about irritating. So what if he was late? He got a little held up at a meet up with Alya who desperately needed help with her website. Adrien knew he needed to get Ladybug to grant her another interview. So what if she's friends with Lila. Adrien is not sure he and Ladybug could go up against another akumatized Lila. Ladybug will understand. She always had.

“Ladybug took care of it, all of it” Marinette couldn't help but spit out. Making up her mind on the spot she decided to take it even further.

“Where were you Chat!? You've barely show up to fights anymore. Ladybug needs your help” Marinette couldn't stop. She needed to release all her frustrations. If she couldn't do it as Ladybug she could at least do it as Marinette.  

“Princess I got held up with something in my civilian life. My friends were having a meetup an-”

“You were late because you were too busy with your Friends?” Chat couldn't help but wince. Marinette looked mad.

“UNBEEELLLIIIEVABLE LADYBUG ALWAYS SHOWS UP, YES SOMETIMES SHE SHOWS UP LATE BUT AT LEAST SHE SHOWS UP. SHE'S AT LEAST SERIOUS AND DOESN'T PUT CIVILIANS AT RISK” Marinette was livid. How dare he. She took a breath and continued at a lower but still pissed voice. 

“Chat listen here and listen closely you have lost all respect for me. You are going to have to earn it back. You are going to have to STEP it up. Prove yourself to be the hero you claim yourself to be. Or else’’

With that Marinette swiveled around and walked away back towards the gala. Unbeknownst to her, an ex-journalist decided to follow Adrien, Desperate for a scoop. What if Adrien had a secret girlfriend or more scandalous a secret boyfriend? But what Alya did get was something better. A confrontation. She recorded the whole confrontation. And boy was she LIVID. 

Adrien couldn't believe it. Marinette had denounced him as Chat. Adrien couldn't help but be hurt and slightly pissed. What would she know? She doesn't understand how much his friends matter to him. Yes, he refuses to publicly support her in her Campaign to reveal Lila. So yes, there might be a few hurt feelings from Marinette's side. Yes, that was it. Obviously. Right? He transformed in an Alley and quickly dashed off to quickly meet back up with Alya.  

Marinette was so done. Once Alya posted the video, which showed someone like Marinette telling off a hero like Chat Noir. This will teach her what happens when you become a bully. No one will like her either. The spell she has over the other kids in Francis Dupont will be broken. Everyone will see how right Alya was when it came in regards to Marinette and her bullying ways. With a glimmer in her eye, she posted the video. She couldn't wait.

“Marinette’’ Bruce couldn't help himself he quickly enveloped Marinette in a hug once he saw her make a reappearance into the gala. Marinette couldn't help but lean into it. Taking care of an Akuma was hard enough but Confronting Chat as Marinette was more emotionally exhausting than she thought. She was tired. 

“BRUCE” a breathless Dick who was occupied pushing Damian in front of him screamed once he was inside. Thank God. Bruce quickly pulled them into the hug as well. He noticed that Marinette squirmed a bit to make space for Damian. Quickly pulling away from Marinette and Dick he crouched down a bit to make eye contact with his two youngest. 

“Marinette this is Damian and Dick your brothers” 

Hold up. This was moving a bit too fast.“Hold Up is no one gonna question this?” Marinette broke in. “How do you guys even know I am your daughter?” She, of course, was immediately met with a flat look by the oldest, Dick. 

Dick Could see the resemblance between her, Bruce and Heck even Damian. Dick made a quick prayer that hopefully, this one wouldn't be too much of a headache. God what if she inherited the broody gene too? If that is true he's taking a LONG vacation to Brazil. Once he's assimilated her comfortably into the family of course.

“Marinette You are my daughter, trust me I made sure to check before even daring to disrupt your life. Don't worry we can make sure to keep this quiet. However, if you do want to welcome us, I don't want to replace the lovely people who have raised you, your parents, Heck I want to meet them, tonight if it's alright.” Bruce finally stated. While also making sure to keep pushing Damian's' face into his chest to make sure Marinette's’ first impression of Damian isn't his Scowling face. 

“Yes Please could we quickly leave before another Akuma attack happens?” Marinette was not gonna make that mistake. Again. Oh, Crap she couldn't forget about the girls.

“Wait Let me go say goodbye to my Friends quickly and I can meet up with you guys outside. Please.” Marinette wasn't sure that if she left and didn't tell the girls she left that Chloe wouldn't have the entire Parisian Police force looking for her. Or Kagami somehow tracking her down. Or Aurore posting a missing person police report. Seriously she needed to make her friends take a chill pill. Sometimes. Bruce and Dick quickly gave her a nod. She made sure to scurry off quickly. 

Bruce Finally released Damian from his “hug”.

“Father Please was that Necessary? Grayson made me promise to be a gentleman, therefore your fears were unfounded.” Damian said although there was little to no heat in his words. He liked hugs no matter how suffocating they could be. His Assasin training was useful after all.

“Sorry, son I’ll make sure to try to cut our hugs shorter next time,” Bruce said with a bit of a knowing smirk. Quickly getting up with a slight groan he made sure to go have a quick conversation with Mayor Bourgeois. 

Once outside he settled Damian into the Suv and followed himself. Soon they were joined by Dick who was followed by Marinette.

Boy oh, Boy Bruce did not have enough aspirin for the potential headaches. 

Chapter Text

Marinette quickly dove out of the SUV. She only stopped enough to make sure to tug Dick along. Marinette was determined to introduce the Waynes to Café liégeois. If they were gonna be some form of a long-range family they would have to be educated in the way of Parisian pastries. They were completely different when compared to the sugar-loaded cakes Americans seemed to love. Dick couldn’t help but laugh, he was glad that at least this one didn't seem to have any qualms about hugs. He gladly allowed himself to be pulled along.

“Netti I’ve had coffee ice cream just not the French version.” Dick had been listening to her rant about the infamous icecream.

“Trust me it’s ten times better and more caffeinated which is a pro if your an insomniac and constantly sleep deprived”

“Whatever you do, I beg you for the recipe. Tim is currently 81% coffee maybe the icecream version will be an effective way to put some more protein in him” Dick was not kidding. Alfred, god bless his soul, is always battling to make sure that all his charges are properly fed. Which is difficult when said charges are nighttime vigilantes who all have exhausting day jobs. Dick could still feel the bump on his head from where Alfred had smacked him with a spatula after finding out that he had nothing but cereal and expired milk in his Blüdhaven apartment. The lecture he received afterward was now infamous.

“Maman PAPA IVE BROUGHT VISITORS!!!” Marinette said while slamming the bakery doors open. Quickly tugging Dick inside, she made sure to hold the door open only long enough to allow Damian and Bruce to come in. She quickly flipped the bakery's sign from open to closed.

The two owners took one glance at Bruce before the Man, who was huge, stepped around the counter and brushed past them to quickly lock the bakery's door and turn off the light. Oh boy.

Quickly rejoining the petite woman who was quickly helping Marinette serve the ice cream. He quickly clasped both their shoulders and pushed them forwards toward the living area. “Let's all take this to the living, shall we?”

Obediently the Waynes followed behind. Marinette quickly gave them some bowls filled with the famous ice cream once they were seated. Regardless of the fact that it was mid-November Dick eagerly gobbled it up. It was delicious. Bruce and Damian decided to eat in more smaller and formal bites, though they had to admit they were in love with the flavor as well.

“Marinette dear why don’t you take ….excuse me what’s your name?” Sabine suddenly realized that there were no formal introductions. Of course, she had a rugged idea as to their identities, but she needed confirmation.

“I’m sorry these two have the manners of a rug, which is odd considering one of them was raised by a Brit” Dick quickly interjected. One of them was a Prince yet they were lacking etiquette. Oh, he was so telling Alfred about this when they were back in Gotham.

“I'm Richard Grayson, This is Bruce Wayne and this little guy o'er here is Damian Wayne” He made sure to lay a hand on Damian and Bruce and “Gently” pushed them forward. Seriously these two had to learn how to talk for themselves without seeming like complete assholes.

“Oh wonderful Marinette please take Damian upstairs while we stay down here and discuss the current situation” She suggested with a slightly creepy smile if Marinette was being honest.

Marinette could sense the tension in the room. Quickly grabbed Damian's arm she tugged on him. Although she could feel his reluctance. However, she noticed that he glanced at Mr.Wayne who nodded his permission. Still, he didn’t move until Richard finally motioned him to go. Huh. That’s weird. Were siblings normally like that? Alya never held nearly as much influence over her sisters. Didn’t all kids usually only need there, parents, approval? She’ll have to Ask Luka. Damian quickly followed her up. Marinette decided to fill in the awkward silence quickly by giving him a tour of her room.

“Here is my where I sleep the top bunk usually goes to whichever of my friends are sleeping over however in recent weeks My friend Chloe has decided to claim it as hers in an effort to establish dominance” Damian only seemed to -Tt- at that. Seriously did the kid ever talk?

“Here is the corner that is usually only saved for all my artwork and commissions that I receive, right now I’m completing a portfolio for an internship for (Chloe's mom). Here are some future designs, this design I haven’t colored since I’m not sure which colors to p-“

“Black and Gold, those colors are regal and professional if you want this design to emit power you’ll choose darker colors” Damian suddenly cut her off. Wow. So powerful wasn’t really her goal for this but Marinette quickly scribbled down some notes. Uh oh, red lining on the inside would be perfect. Suddenly Marinette was overcome with the temptation to set to make the design. But unfortunately, she had a guest. Uh oh. Said guest was now busy looking at her Aunt's Saber.

“It’s needs sharpening and proper maintenance” he bit out. Damian was insulted. A saber was an extension of a fencer themselves. A proper fencer would never allow for their saber to be this mistreated or damaged. Suddenly his attention was caught by an engravement. Huh. he's seen that before. It seems like he’ll have to make a call later on.

“That's because that’s not mines it's my biological mothers, and unfortunately sword maintenance isn't in my skill repertoire” she retorted while snatching it back.

“t-t looks like I’ll have to help you make up for your lack of knowledge in that area,” he said while taking it back again. Honestly he was trying. Maybe now Grayson will focus all his babying on her,although a small part of him wished he won’t.

Chapter Text

Marinette was starting to find out that lugging down ONE suitcase down from her room was hard enough, lugging THREE suitcases down was absolute torture. Why did Maman feel a need to pack so much? She was only gonna be gone for a week at most.

Finally, after struggling with another stair-step she settled with letting the suitcase fall and crash its way down. Hey, she never said she wasn't weak, she just wisely chose to never answer. Plus Laziness is the way to go.

Honestly, This was what happens when you spend all night dealing with back to back Akumas and a no-good cat-themed superhero is of no use. But thank god she was going to spend her Thanksgiving break in the States as per the new agreement all three of her parents agreed to. THREE. Keeping her superhero life was hard enough with two parents but now a third parent had to be added. And this new one comes with his gaggle of children. On the Brightside it honestly looked like Playboy Bruce Wayne does seem to care for his kids, he's made sure to have a sit down with her and put in an effort in learning about her.

Marinette already knew a lot about him from her stalking er researching. Dick Grayson was energetic seriously he never seemed to stay still, which is something she could relate to. He's made sure to talk to her and ever since they left he always checks up on her. Having him as a brother was fun. He's even taught her some gymnast moves, which she totally doesn't use when fighting akumas.

Damian was uh a whole different matter. He presented her with a newly upgraded sword, with the blade of the sword being a bit too close to her neck. Marinette swore that he and Kagami were similar after that incident. She swore to never let those two meet each other or be left in a room alone.

Anyways in exchange, She gave him a new Jacket with green accents. Of course she ‘’accidentally’’ poked him a few times with a needle while making the adjustments. Of course, she made one for Dick who of course awed over it and picked her up in a bear hug and took a picture. Giving Mr.Wayne one was different. She knew he wore thousand-dollar suit sets. But she still gave him an all-black bomber jacket. He seemed to like it. But that could have been an act.

Anyways after they left she found out that she was going to the States for fall break. She's supposed to leave right after school, Chloe, Kagami, Aurore, and Luka were updated about the situation. To An Extent. They knew she was going to the States to stay with a relative they just didn't know that said relative was her father. Her very wealthy and famous father. 

Marinette quickly went and grabbed a cup of coffee and a box filled with pastries as a sort of goodbye gift. eh. She'll see them in two weeks anyway. Quickly giving her Maman and Papa a goodbye peck. She'll give them a more proper goodbye after school since she'll come back to pick up her luggage. The Waynes Butler, Alfred Pennyworth, is going to pick her up since he was apparently on Vacation in England offered to pick her up and take her to the airport. 

She made sure to quickly cross the street and eventually delved into jogging to get to class. She wasn't late as often anymore. She can't remember the last time she got a tardy. However, due to her late-night adventures, she might get one today. 

“HONESTLY CESAIRE AT THIS POINT I'M POSITIVE THAT YOU AND THE REST OF THIS CLASS SHARE A SINGLE BRAIN CELL MARINETTE WOULD NEVER  DO ANY-”

Marinette was suddenly jolted out of her eavesdropping by a furious Yell from the second level of school.

“MARINETTE DUPAIN CHENG TO MY OFFICE  NOW ” Damocles yelled from his office. 

Slowly the dread grew in Marinette. She got the sneaking suspicion that there was a correlation between the screaming match in Bustiers Classroom and Damocles summoning. She made sure to quicken her pace.

The scene she walked into could only be defined as  chaotic . Damocles was sitting behind his desk. In Front of him was a sobbing Lila who was being comforted by a teary-eyed Rose and a tense Alya who was softly clutching Lila's arm. However, once she walked in Alya's head snapped up towards Marinette's Direction. Her sympathetic face soon morphed into one with a sneer. 

Oh Boy. Marinette didn't have to be a genius to figure out what was going on. She wondered what accusations she came up with. Slowly she approached and sat right on the chair next to Lila and her little “support group”.

“Ms.Dupain, DO you have anything to say to Ms.Rossi for the incident this morning?” Ah yes, the morning in which she was busy packing pastries. 

“What “incident”, I’m sorry Mr.Damocles but I was at home all morning with my parents and packing pastries”

“Don’t be such a liar Marinette, You know that Lila and I saw you last night near Andres and that you threw ice cream at her and tripped her, causing her to scrape her knees” Alya spat out, which in turn only caused Lila to sob harder and  faker .

Marinette wouldn't believe Alya just  LIED  like that. That she would just cross a line in that manner. Make up a story. Blatantly make up a lie and restate that lie again with such conviction.

Last night she was on facetime talking to Mr.Bruce and Dick. Damian made a small appearance, but only to see her maintenance on the saber. Of course, Marinette couldn’t tell them  that . And she most definitely couldn't tell them that after she hung up on them. She went on Patrol as Ladybug. Of course, she did the Patrol mostly alone, Chat showed up in the final 30 minutes. He only bothered her, begging her to grant an interview to Cesaire, and even had the nerve to ask for them to finally reveal their identities. Heck to the No. Obviously. 

“Marinette these are two  credible  witnesses, and taking into account your history of bullying Ms. Lila Rossi, I’m afraid I have to take further action against you, Call your parents, both of you”

Lila miraculously stopped crying “But Mr.Damocles my mother is currently on a diplomatic trip to Achu for water conservation efforts”. Lila couldn’t believe Alyas’ little ruse was working. Of course, she’s going to let Alya believe she came up with everything. Damocles's eyes widened at the implication that he might interrupt a Diplomat life-saving effort.

“O-Of course we wouldn’t dream of interrupting Mrs.Rossi's efforts, Marinette, however,  your  Parents are across the street, make sure to get them here in ASAP” Damocles finally stated. Marinette had no choice but to pull out her phone and call her parents. They would be on her side….right?

Chapter Text

Turns out Marinette was worried over nothing. When her parents arrived they immediately cut off Damocles' b.s explanation. Her Maman even went on to immediately tell Alya to  shut up when she started spewing her false story. They knew it was false because they were the ones who called Bruce to set up the final details for Marinette's visit. And honestly, the story was far too elaborate. They too were hurt by the implication that Alya, a girl they've welcomed into there home, was betraying their daughter so intimately. 

Finally, Sabine stood up, the sudden force causing the chair to move so far back that it nearly hit a teary-eyed, who was secretly sporting a smirk, Lila.                                         

“Mr.Damocles my daughter has always been making amazing contributions to this school and this school community. She's been getting your school the necessary funding for your clubs and arranged amazing field trips. Even as President she’s made sure to keep the school from becoming a cesspool of negative feelings.” Sabine spat out invading Damocles personal space, Tom had to pull her back but not before putting in his own two cents.

“Don't you guys think it's convenient that all her “Problematic Behavior” started from when Ms.Rossi came back from her trip?” 

“Mr. and Mrs. Dupain Cheng, Ms. Rossi has people who have correlated these accusations, now we can suspend her for the time being, while we start an investigation b-”

“No”

Suddenly everyone turned towards the bluenette who has been sitting quietly while her mother argued.

“I quit, I wanna transfer out of this school, I wanna formally step down as President and I wanna cancel any field trips I had planned” Marinette finally spit out.

Lila was overjoyed. This was more than anything she could have wished for. Marinette was going to leave.  Willingly . Truthfully she was a bit disappointed. It would have been better if she had been expelled. Then she could’ve spun all of her lies without  Marinette  being there. Her control would be  absolute . Oh god, she has  never  been happier. Madame Bustiers Class took too  so long to get under her control. All because of Marinette. Alya Cesaire was useful for something after all. Planning Marinette's Downfall took almost no effort. Damocles was clueless plus Madame Bustier wasn't difficult to fool. They just had to make sure to avoid Mendeleiev. She was able to displayed a bit of common sense, unfortunately. Lila was shocked at the way Marinette's parents were defending her. Last time they were quick to believe her. Eh didn't matter anyway. Right now the look on their faces was enough. Pale open-mouthed. 

“Marinette sweetheart  please  think this through” Tom pleaded. He knew that his little girl had reached her Breaking point. He could tell by the slump of her shoulders. But he saw something. A  spark  in her eyes. She was planning something. She had an idea. Still, he had to make sure that she thought this course of action. 

“Papa I want to, I am  done ,” She said finally facing Lila. As if she were declaring something.

Sabine, bless her, quickly moved behind Marinette and grabbed her Arm. Oh boy, she was in full Mama Hen mode, and God save the poor soul who tried to get in her way.

“Sweetheart, move” She gently pushed Marinette towards Tom. But quickly turned and moved towards Damocles. 

“My daughter is making a withdrawal from Francis Dupont effective  immediately , She's cleaning out her lockers, her desks and I expect all of the schools' files to be handled properly and transfered.” Sabine finally stated.

“B-but w-where w-w-ould she even go?, T he other Academies aren't currently accepting any new enrollments” Damocles stuttered wide-eyed. 

“Mr.Damocles that is a  family issue, That we'll resolve now may we go?” Tom made sure to state.

“Yes fine, Marinette go pick up all of your school supplies from Madame Bustiers,” he said waving the Dupain-Cheng family away. He quickly turned to once a once again sobbing Lila, who was now sobbing about how overjoyed she was that her “Bully” was finally going to leave. Alya was smiling happily and patting Lila's arm, while Rose gently wiped away her tears with a tissue.

“Ms.Rossi I hope you’ll find that the school's environment will be much  kinder ,” Damocles said in a soothing voice.

“O-of C-c-course I hope to lead the class in a more  positive  direction as well as a more  effective direction ,” Lila said, she knew it was now a perfect opportunity to take the class president role. She could take the role, make Alya her deputy and push off all the work on her. Simple as pie. 

Madame Bustiers Class 

Paris,France

9:15 am

“Come on Guys, That is Marinette we’re talking about, the probability of her doing what Lila and Alya claimed is practically at a Zero” Max stated. Juleka sat beside him quietly, Ever since she broke up with Rose she has been more vocal, however at the moment, she felt that she should let Max take the reins. H knew that Marinette wouldn’t do that. Chloe was currently arguing with Alix, Juleka could practically see the steam coming out of Chloe's ears. Sabrina quickly went ahead and steered Chloe away towards a corner. 

Suddenly The Door to the Classroom opened In walked in a quietly sobbing Lila and Alix immediately scuttled towards her ready to give Alya a helping hand. The air seemed to grow thick with the tension. 

Right behind them, Adrien shuffled in. Seeming to sense the tension he glanced up and saw a group of Lilas allies seated together to one side and Everyone else seated to the other side. Admittedly Lilas group was bigger.

He considered that before deciding to sit in the back but on  Lila's  side nevertheless. Chloe couldn’t believe the nerve of the guy. Honestly, he  was  as spineless as Marinette once told her as she sobbed on her. Making up her mind she decided to go ahead and approach Adrien and try to force  some  sense into Adrien.

“Adrikinsssss~~~ what the heck are you doing sitting there?” Chloe said while plopping down next to him but leaning towards the other side. 

“Chloe just sit and don't start anything also whats Lila crying about  now ?” Adrien furiously whispered.

“She’s claiming that Marinette  assaulted  her and Alya, She’s risking  expulsion ”

“Come on Chloe, this is Marinette this is like the 5th time shes been at risk of suspension, she’ll figure a way out like always”

“D-do you  HONESTLY  expect me to do nothing?” She sputtered out of pure exasperation. Honestly, this boy needed some  serious  rewiring.

“Just don't start anything with Lila and  don't  go involving your dad” He recommended. He felt bad, He did, but he had  faith  in Marinette. They have to take the high road and avoid conflicts.

“I'll have you know what I do to help  my friend  is none of your business, also how can you defend Lila and Alya?’’ Chloe finally stated while leaning into Adrien's face.

Truthfully? He understood why he did it. He trusted Alya. He  didn't  trust Lila. But based on what he's witnessed Lila wins for a bit but soon Marinette comes back and things go back to normal. That's the cycle he's used to. And that's the  best  cycle everyone comes out happy. 

“She’ll come back” He finally bit out  slightly  annoyed.

Abruptly Chloe turned to face the front. Looking up he was startled to see Marinette stroll to the front of the class. 

“Actually She won’t” Marinette finally said.

Chapter Text

"I am finally putting in my withdrawal"

“From Bustiers?” Max asked. Although a small part of him knew what was about to happen. 

“From Francis Dupont,” She said, although with a bit of a smile.

Marinette finally felt happy. She was going to leave a Toxic environment, and for once she didn't give a crap about who it might hurt. What people didn't know was that in-between leaving Damocles Office, she left to go to the bathroom. Honestly, she was fully prepared to cry. However mid-sob she got a call, From Gotham . 

She quickly answered through teary eyes, not realizing she left facetime on.

“Mari I Can't wait for you to come to you won't believe it, Bruce is going to take some time off, Cass has been a whirlwind making sure to have everything ready, Oh boy Jason and Tim are excited to meet you, Damian is excited to have a sibling to which he can teach proper Swordsmanship, and Alfred has been fussing over everything and everyone.’’ Dick was rambling while shoveling in spoonfuls of cereal into her mouth, Not even noticing he was face timing. It was amusing to Marinette. 

“Oh and Bludhav- hang on are you Crying!?” Dick suddenly seemed to notice a red-eyed Marinette. 

“Actually no I was just about to start” 

“About to start??? Huh? Maribug what’s going on?” Marinette couldn't help but flinch slightly at her new nickname. Seriously if only they knew about her extracurricular activities. She’ll be seen as such a weirdo.

“I just withdrew from my school after I got accused of assaulting someone again and honestly I’m s-so FED UP!!!! Honestly, I put in 100% in making sure the class is great and fun. Everyone has what they need. We are always the highest-ranking kids' grades wise because of me. But I can’t even say anything or else I'm being too greedy, or too narcissist or too selfish” She finally unleashed everything.

Dick seemed to be quiet and was just staring at her as she rambled. Finally, he let out a sigh god this sibling he’s only known for a bit and she's already rambling about her issues. Thank God. He couldn’t deal with another family member that liked to hide their feelings. This was his chance. 

“Maribug Listen that school honestly sounds like a sh*thole and you need to get out. The sooner the better. You know that you’re at risk right” He was a Police Officer, he knew that situations like this often ended with those who suffered from abuse blowing up. In the Worst Ways.

He decided to continue. He had a plan.

“Look ya need some perspective, some space. You’re coming to Gotham? And you’re Parents are withdrawing you from School already, by the way, excellent parenting, so you’re essentially schoolless. Why don't you apply for school here? You could go to school here for a semester and then figure out everything else.” He finally asked.

Wait a minute. That was a great idea. Ten times better than her original plan of just going home and crying while shoveling pastries and ice cream into her face. She hoped to get hopefully accepted into online Highschool. School In Gotham would be a nice change. School and Life in America would be another chance. She’ll get to learn more about her Father's family. Maman and Papa would finally be able to see another possible location to possibly open a new bakery.

“That sounds so Great you have no idea.” She said with a slight smirk.

As soon as she announced her withdrawal there was an immediate uproar. Most of the screaming came from Chloe, and Marinette couldn’t help but feel touched by how much Chloe cared. 

“DUPAIN-CHENG YOU CAN’T ABANDON US WITH THESE IDIOTS!!!” Chloe shouted. 

All of a sudden Adrien stood up and went to grab her by the arm and drag her out. But shockingly Marinette dug in her heels and shoved his hand away. 

“No I am not going to hide away, I am going to stand here and you guys are going to Listen ,” She said while staring at Adrien in the eyes. Lila for once seemed to be quiet. She was so interested in this. For once she wanted to see the outcome without her manipulation. 

“Fine” Adrien moved to sit back in Marinette's old seat. 

“I am going leave School, Right now I'm planning to enroll in a school at Gotham”

“ Gotham as in crime-ridden, dirty and dark Gotham City?” Adrien asked incredulously. 

Okay, Marinette needed to do more research on Gotham City….Dick would help her get by. Hopefully. Maybe Damian had a point when he was forcing her to learn how to punch. She's been relying way too much on her magic. She wasn’t exactly bad at fighting, she was just inexperienced. Luckily Damian decided to be helpful, mean but helpful nonetheless. 

“Yes precisely that Gotham” Maybe she should have picked a Boarding school. Oh Well. Too late for regrets now.

“OH MY GOSH!? GOTHAM HAS BATMAN!!!” Alya suddenly jumped up and yelled.

“Since The Waynes suddenly left before Lila could get me an interview, You could act as my correspondent in Gotham,” She said excitedly.

“Are you kidding me no way .” Marinette spat out. Was this girl demented?

“You and Lila are both setting me up for expulsion, you released a video expecting me to get backlash-which backfired horribly by the way- and now you have the nerve to ask for my help?” Marinette seethed, upset and annoyed. Gosh, she’ll take Gotham Crazies over these Lunatics any day, at least those she would be allowed to punch. Without repercussions anyway.

“What video are you talking about Marinette?” Chloe asked because of course, that's what she focuses on.  

“The video on the Ladyblog” Max finally stated because he likes to keep track of information.

“ oh that explains why I didn’t know, I quit reading that trashy tabloid a loooong time ago”

“ WHAT Bourgeois you better take it back, The Ladyblog is respected and adored”

“You're kidding, right? Please traffic on your blog has slowed ever since Aurore released her blog which is ten times better. Did you hear? Lois Lane from the Daily Planet, a very respected newspaper in America,  loved her blog and even gave her advice ” Chloe taunted.

Alya was pissed. Ever since Aurore released her blog she has stolen a bunch of her audience. Honestly, her blog was losing so much traffic to Aurores since she had an endorsement from Killer Bee. 

Alya, of course, got an invitation to go to the Journalist banquet but she wasn’t allowed to take a plus one. Which of course was devastating to Lila since she couldn't go and see Damian Wayne. Poor Lila quietly told her how sorry she was since that meant she wouldn't be able to get Alya the interview. 

Of course, Alya being Alya tried to get sneak Lila in however they soon saw another girl who was trying to get in as well. However she had an invite, and Lila needed it. Lila however quickly pointed something out. 

“Alya can you believe what she’s wearing and oh go is she trying to come off as a junior reporter for some trashy tabloid, hmmm seems like someone more else deserves it more” Lila softly stated. Of course, Lila was right, someone else deserved it. And Alya needed that interview.

Quickly Alya pulled Lila along towards the girl who was taking out her pass. 

“Excuse me, I’m sorry but I seriously need that Press Pass” Alya stated. Alyas' back was turned, so she couldn’t see Lilas growing smirk.  

The girl was slightly startled however she noticed that the red-haired girl with glasses already HAD a press pass, why would she need it? Of course, she couldn’t just SAY that.

“W-why would you need it if yo-you a-already h-ha-have one?” she managed to stutter out while tightening her grip on the press pass around her neck.

“BECAUSE my friend over here was denied one, even though her boyfriend is going to be in there so please just give it to us so I can get my interview” Alya snapped she was honestly losing her patience.

“I-uh No Way it’s mi- '' Quickly as a flash, Alya leaped forward and snatched the pass straight from the girl's neck. Of course, the girl leaped forward to try and take it back. Alya, however, stepped back and roughly shoved the girl back who promptly fell back and landed on her behind, ripping the girl's skirt and tearing her suit jacket. 

Alya quickly handed the pass to Lila, who walked up behind her to take it. “You should have learned how to fight back better” Lila sneered towards the now tearful girl. Alya looped her arm around her and dragged her towards the entrance. Unfortunately for the security personnel witnessed the incident and refused to allow them entrance and were about to go check up on the girl. However, it was too late. 

“Yes Hawkmoth”

They all heard it coming from where the girl previously was.

That was one of the few times she caused an Akuma, unfortunately, they had to run after the girl was akumatized. Lila, unfortunately, had to leave due to her mother worrying. Luckily Adrien was gracious enough to grant her an interview, but he was distracted and jittery throughout the interview, a huge boom from far away caught his attention and he mumbled a quick apology and dashed off. Alya was desperate for more gossip and intel so she followed him but unfortunately lost him. Luckily she caught an argument between her ex-friend and Chat Noir. The outfit was beautiful and eye-catching, however, Alya only got angrier because that meant Marinette was allowed entrance.

Alya with the sudden realization snapped her head and glared in Marinette's Direction. 

“Why were you even allowed in?” Alya snapped. 

“ Because I Designed and Made Nadia Chamacks Dress” Marinette Snapped back allowing a bit of pride to seep into the words

“Marinette Sweetheart it's time to go, we have to go and pick up your luggage before dropping your luggage,” Sabine said while standing in the doorway of the classroom. Sabine had her head turned towards Marinette, she quickly stepped out but quickly directed a glare at Madame Bustier. 

Suddenly Chloe surged forward along with Juleka towards Marinette. Chloe quickly latched to Marinette. “ MARINETTE PLEASE I AM BEGGING YOU TAKE ME TO THE STATES WITH YOU IF YOU LEAVE ME HERE WITH THESE IDIOTS I MIGHT AS WELL SAY ADIOS TO MY SANITY RIGHT NOW” Chloe wailed while still clutching to Marinette. Marinette felt bad but hey what could you do?

Juleka quickly stepped forwards and struggled to yank Chloe away from Marinette eventually needing Max to Help. Finally, with a Final tug, Marinette was released from Chloes clutches.

“Don’t Worry I’ll take care of her and keep her from committing homicide” Sabrina stated.

Marinette quickly had a few words with them. With a final Group Hug which consisted of Juleka, Max, Sabrina, Ivan, and Chloe. Chloe still had Marinette in her clutches for a few seconds afterward. With a sigh Marinette freed herself. She turned towards the “Lila Side” however looking at them with slight disdain. Keeping eye contact with Lila she finally said whats she's been wanting to say from the day she met Lila.

“Goodbye”

Chapter Text

True Bee: I have been abandoned Betrayed UNLOVED

Maribug: I haven't even been gone for FIVE minutes, Didn’t Juleka confiscate your phone privileges?

True Bee: Right now she's occupied keeping the class from killing each other

Maribug: You should be helping her!!!

True Bee: I am, I'm giving the others the glare

True Bee: Wait Aurore and Kagami just stormed in

True Bee: ooooo now Kagami is yelling at Adrien

Maribug: Does she have her Saber? Please TELL ME SHE DOESNT!!

True Bee: Aww Aurore pulled her away before I could check :( 

True Bee: Wait No, Now Aurore is yelling at Adrien

Maribug: Why the heck isn't Bustier doing anything!?

True Bee: Man I should’ve brought popcorn

True Bee: Oh Snap Mendeliev just walked in to pull Aurore and Chloe away

True Bee: Oop she’s glaring at Bustier and Alya now

True Bee: Lila is being Lila

True Bee: Not even 10 minutes and the class is already in Chaos without you

True Bee: Speaking of DUPAIN CHENG I  EXPECT A MORE THOROUGH EXPLANATION!!

Maribug: Woman keep people from killing each other and I’ll tell you soon

Maribug: Actually no keep the people we like safe, I Don't care about the rest

True Bee: Yes Ma'am

True Bee: KAGAMI HAD A SWORD I REPEAT KAGAMI HAD A SWORD

Maribug: Good Luck

True Bee: TRAITOR

Marinette felt bad she really did. But then again now the class wasn't her problem anymore and she felt joy. She prayed Chloe could keep the class together for a while. With a sigh, she walked up to her room to finish her packing. Her Maman was now busy calling Mr.Wayne  to ask about the arrangements. Dick said that if Bruce wasn’t ready she could stay with him at Bludhaven in the meantime. Damian was texting her about the “rules”.

No mistreating his pets, Don’t try to become Graysons Favourite sibling  “because that spot is already filled”. Don’t try to separate Tim Drake from his Coffee, Cassandra Cain is dangerous but awesome and Jason’s Existence was to not be mentioned outside of the manor. What was even that family? Seriously she knew that they all had interesting backgrounds but Wasn't Jason Todd murdered by an Arkham Crazy a few years ago? Seriously that family sounded like a perfect base for a Buzzfeed Unsolved episode. Huh, maybe her secretly being a superhero won't be the strangest thing. 

Marinette quickly packed her sketchbook and made sure to put the horse miraculous box into her purse. Master Fu was updated to an extent that she was going to be out of the country, out of continent really, for a few weeks.  Luckily she had Kalki to help with teleportation. She didn't have to panic about customs or anything. Mr.Wayne had a Private Plane. She’ll be flying over to Gotham with her parents and they'll be staying at a hotel for a few days. Get her “acclimated” to an American city and the customs. Paris will have to go without delicious sweets and treats for a few days.

Taking a final glance around the room Marinette was suddenly filled with a sense of homesickness. It didn't matter that she hadn't left, she didn’t even know  when  she'd come back. Sadly she had to leave some of her sewings and designing things. She had made sure to finish all of her commissions. However, only a quick glance at her emails and her MDC website revealed that a lot of purchases and commission inquiries were being made. As soon as she gets to Gotham she will have to try a good fabric store  and  buy a new sewing machine and mannequin. She wasn’t a fool, she is definitely taking some of the expensive fabrics, Alexeis Fencing uniform was safely packed along with her saber. 

With a final glance around she crawled down. And let the door shut with a final  click .

Gotham City                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      U.S.A                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    2:30 pm

“Sabine Sabine Sa- Of  course , Marinette can stay with me for a bit longer. Yes  yes , Dick already told me the basics about the  situation . Are you  sure  you don’t want me to get involved? You really should get the police involved. I don’t like bullies or liars.” Bruce stated. Seriously Bruce was really tempted to fly over to Paris and press charges against those little  demons . Heck, he wants to press charges against the foolish teacher and idiotic principle.

“ Bruce   calm down , trust me I will handle the school and the bullies, right now I want to get Marinette away from them” Sabine stated with a growing smirk. Oh, don’t mess with her. Bustier and Damocles are going  down . However, she had to be a little patient and play the long game. She knew Marinette wanted to handle her classmates. 

“ Fine  don’t worry about it, what are you two planning to do about school?” he asked, a bit concerned. Seriously  another  one of his kids was getting bullied and harassed.

Bruce was having flashbacks to the bullying and harassment Dick and Jason went through when they went to school. Dick dealt with months of being called things like gypsy trash, charity cases, and circus brat before he finally built up the courage and told Bruce. Jason on the other hand, Bruce found out really quickly about his bullying. Mostly because Jason would get into fights. Tim didn't deal with bullying that bad, sure he got called a nerd and orphan trash but Bruce handled that very quickly because by then he was an expert. Bruce wasn't willing to put Cassandra through school. No one  dared  bully Damian Al Ghul Wayne. 

“We actually haven’t thought that far,” Sabine admitted sheepishly. “But we have the necessary paperwork prepared”

“Why not enroll her in Gotham Academy along with Damian?” Bruce recommended

“It's a  private academy, the  tuition is in the 30,000’s” Sabine suggested exasperatedly. 

 “You’re kidding right?”

“I’m just saying I don’t think Marinette would be comfortable with going to a school like that.”

“She went to school with a Model, The Mayor's Daughter, and a comic book artist”

“Bruce!”

“I’m just saying Gotham Academy has already been the school where all of my older kids have attended, plus it has the best security because  I  funded it.” Yes, Bruce was an overprotective parent. Sue him. 

With a sigh Sabine couldn’t help but give in she was also an overprotective parent. 

“Fine but  You’ll   be the one to deal with her freakout over the costs”

“Deal”

Orly Airport                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Paris, France                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      5:00 pm

With a quick hop, Marinette couldn’t help but gape at the private jet with the blaring WAYNE INDUSTRIES on the side. Once they were inside they made sure to get comfortable. It was going to be  at least  an 8-hour flight. Marinette took out her sketchbook and quickly sketched out a few new future designs. however, she took a quick glance at her parents and saw that her mother had dozed off on her father's shoulder. She quickly flipped a page that revealed a few ideas for an altered ladybug outfit. She  needed  a redesigned outfit. No more skin-tight suits or pigtails. She's doing a loose outfit and braids, being a superhero with loose hair was plain impractical.  

Seriously there is a reason why all superheroes either have short hair or have their hair tied back. With a few final touches, she was done with the redesign, now all that was left was to show Tikki the new design. That's another worry for Marinette. Finding time to talk with Tikki was easy enough to do with her parents. They were bakers who had to wake up early so they usually went to sleep really quickly and early plus she was also an only child, which made it easy for Marinette to slip away for her Ladybug nightly adventures and talk with Tikki. How is she gonna manage that in a house filled with a bunch of people? 

Marinette flipped to another page and decided to start sketching a new dress design. She’s curious about what type of colors she wants to use. Maybe Marinette should make it all black? No, too dark. Maybe a few touches of blue? Nah. Red? Nope, she has enough red clothing. Purple? Yuck. Red and Green? Nope, she doesn't want to look like a traffic light. Gold!! Black and gold would be perfect!! Cape? Wait no, Edna Mode the animated icon made a good point on why capes should be banned.

Taking a quick glance around she finally risked taking a peak on Tikki. Tikki was comfortable situated and munching on a bunch of sweets. Marinette softly closed the purse and decided that sleep was the perfect course of action. Wrapping her sweater around herself she allowed the warmth and darkness to overtake her.

Cesaire Apartment                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Paris, France                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      7:30

“Okay listen up gang since  Marinette  abruptly dropped out, it’s up to us to raise the money for the school dance and the end of the year field trip which is a few months away,” Alya said. Lila was quick to point out how  horrible and awful  it was for  Marinette  to leave them with all the work. 

Alya couldn’t help but notice that only a few people showed up to the meeting. Noticeably absent was Chloe, Juleka, Sabrina, Max (who said Markov needed a reboot or something) and Ivan. Alya couldn’t help but be concerned by the absences. They  needed  their help to get all the planning ready and everything. 

Rose was squealing at a thought of being able to decide on planning the theme of the dance. “Oooohhhh I can’t wait for the dance, do you think Marinette would still make me a dress?” Rose asked while glancing around. Sudden realization seems to hit them all. This year  they  will most likely have to  pay  and  buy  their own dresses and suits. Marinette  always  made them their outfits and that was part of the reason that they became the talk of the school after a dance. They always looked stunning.

“Rose Marinette wouldn’t  Dare not  make you a dress, you’re one of the sweetest girls in the school if she refuses to make you one then she is Heartless” Lila stated fervently. Oh, Lila was making sure to get her claws completely in the class, she didn’t have an obstacle anymore.

“Lilas right, Marinette would always help you no matter how mad she is at you.” Adrien chimed in. All of a sudden their phones started pinging. Adrien quickly took out his and gaped at what he was reading in the class group chat.

Sabrina has left the Chat

Ivan has left the Chat

Juleka has left the Chat

Max has left the Chat.

Chloe B: Max, Sabrina, Ivan, Juleka and I have made the collective decision to transfer to Ms. Mendelievs Class, Our Transfers were approved quickly, thanks to yours truly :)

Chloe B: Have fun figuring out how to pay for everything  Your  end of the school year class trip :)

Chloe B: Oh Marinette is no Longer doing free commissions, have fun with dress and suit shopping :) :) :)

Chloe B: Toodles~ you will all haunt my nightmares for years to come

Chloe B has left the chat

Chapter Text

Mass Panic immediately ensued following the texts. 

Rose couldn’t help but tear up at the thought that she won't be wearing the beautiful new dress she designed with Marinette. Alya was panicking because she knew how much Marinette's MDC dresses cost. Yes, she stalked her website, but only to trash talk it with Lila, Lila even told her how some of those designs were her idea and Marinette stole them.  

Adrien decided to try and call his ex-classmates but was shocked to find that he was blocked . He decided to try calling Marinette but was even more shocked to find that the line was disconnected. 

Alya finally had enough of the chaos and decided to try and get control of the room again. She blew a shrill whistle “EVERYONE  QUIET, Look we lost only a few people, most of them bullies, we don't  need them together we can handle this ”

No one would admit the queasy feeling they got at the pit of there stomachs. They knew Marinette might've been a bully but she was an excellent president.

Gotham Airfield

Gotham City, U.S.A

7 a.m 

Marinette stirred and was shocked to find that her parents were up and getting there carry on luggage. Quickly glancing out her window she was shocked to find that they  Landed in Gotham . Eep. Quickly gathering her art supplies she followed her parents down the steps. 

Suddenly she heard a squeal “Oh my gosh she’s so adorablleeeee,  Bruce are you sure this is your kid?”, she looked up to see a blonde girl jumping up and down while clinging to another boys arm. 

Mr.Wayne seemed to have a look of eternal suffering etched on his face. “Yes Stephanie I'm sure, How’d you even know we were going to be  here ?”

“Tim told me” The guy she was clinging to slightly grimaced while side-eyeing Mr.Wayne who was giving him a glare

“Of course”

‘MARIBUGGGG” Dick quickly ran towards the steps and scooped her up and twirled Marinette around. Marinette couldn’t help but clutch to her supplies for fear of dropping them while giggling. 

“Hi Dick, really happy to finally be here” She hugged him back, while he put her back down. Suddenly Dick was abruptly shoved away 

“My Turn” Suddenly Marinette was engulfed in by a blonde tornado.

“Steph Steph you’re suffocating her let her goooo”  The guy Tim said as he was approaching them.

But shes to adoranble~” the blonde said, still holding Marinette captive. Why was it always the Blondes who tried to kill her?

Oblivious to her plight her parents went on ahead and greeted Bruce and Dick who had to stumble back to Bruce's side after being viciously shoved.

“Bruce I want to say a huge thank you, We can’t wait to get Marinette situated and head back to Paris,” Sabine said making sure to quickly shake his hand and giving Dick a quick hug.

“Ha, I swear all three of us eventually dozed off on the flight,” Tom said while moving to do the same.

After a few more seconds Stephanie finally released Marinette.  

“Oh gosh, you’re too adorable for words~ My name is Steph” Wait did Bruce have a second daughter? Marinette thought he only had one other daughter, Cassandra?

“Are you  another  one of Bruce's kids?”

“What!? Oh gosh, you’ve only been here for a few minutes and you already recognize that Bruce has an adopting problem, pfft luckily I am not one of those poor suckers. I am just here to eternally annoy them plus I’m besties with Cass, Bruce’s other daughter” Stephanie explained. 

She quickly pulled Tim towards them. “ This is one of those poor suckers, Marinette this is Tim Drake, He’s constantly sleep-deprived and suffers from severe caffeine addiction”

“It's not  severe

“Yet”

Marinette couldn’t help but snort. Being a Fashion designer/superhero/ highschooler, Marinette has learned how to make a dang good pot of coffee. Also how to tell if she’s hallucinating or not from lack of sleep. Seriously there was this one incident where she was seeing hamsters take over the school's library, there was also that one time where she saw a mob of pigeons chase a man, but that turned out to be pigeon man who got akumatized again.

“A fellow addict, nice to meet you,” Marinette said.

Stephanie suddenly started looking at two before seemingly coming to a startling revelation

“ OH GOD, THERE'S TWO COFFEE ADDICTS NOW!!!” She yelped. She suddenly scurried away in a desperate attempt to call Alfred and warn him about the new incoming addict.

Dick glanced down and noticed that Marinette dropped a few of her pens and markers. He knelt to pick them up quickly he handed them to Marinette.

“You like to draw?” He asked giving her another quick hug

“Yeppers I mainly focus on designing outfits and  making  them as well, where’d you think your jackets came from?”

“ No way, I thought you bought them!!! I love mines and I know for a fact Bruce loves his.”

“Well yeah I make a lot of my clothes, I have a website where I sell some of the clothing, I also do commissions” suddenly Dick was once again shoved away.

“MDC!!” Tim exclaimed

Marinette jumped back a few steps before suddenly realizing that he was a  fan.  

“M.D.C are your initials, I  knew  I recognized the Jacket from somewhere”

“Yep based off another Jacket I sold on My website, except some of the detailing is different”

“You’ve gotten recognition from Audrey Bourgeois and Gabriel Agreste,” Tim gawked. Dick was busy grumbling complaints “What is it with you two and shoving me”.

 Marinette quickly went over to help him up. She quickly got one of her suitcases and opened it up pulling out a few articles of clothing. Quickly she handed Tim his jacket, and since she wasn't aware of Stephanie's existence she settled with Handing her a Trench Coat since it was cold.

Stephanie immediately shed her current coat and shoved it at Tim to hold. She put on the trenchcoat and admired the embroidered birds around the sleeves. 

“Oh my gosh, you have such a good eye”

Stephanie immediately shed her current coat and shoved it at Tim to hold. She put on the trenchcoat and admired the embroidered birds around the sleeves. 

“Well duh kinda necessary” Marinette teased

“Wait you didn’t bring any of your supplies?” Dick responded, noticing that Marinette didn’t bring Big enough suitcases to carry some of the bigger sewings and designing supplies.

“Well, we had to kinda leave in a rush so…. I didn't have enough time to pack some of the bigger supplies”

“I have an idea! We can go around Gotham and buy some of the supplies!” Dick suggested.

“Maybe on the weekend Dick, We gotta take her to the manor and let her and the Dupain-Chengs meet the rest of the family,” Bruce noted joining them. Honestly, though Bruce was more worried about a certain butler ripping him a new one for taking so long to introduce him to his newest granddaughter.

College Francis Dupont

Paris, France

8:30 a.m

People walking into Bustiers Class couldn’t help but be disconcerted at all the empty seats the next day. They all decided to sit on the right, some glancing at the empty seats on the left.

Lila finally walked in and with the flip of her hair, she strolled straight and made sure to take a seat next to Alya. Right in Marinette's old seat. It was odd seeing someone else sit there. Eventually Madame Bustier walked in and only took a momentary pause upon seeing the small class size.

Adrien slowly walked in and lightly jumped at the new class size. He took his usual seat next to Nino. However, it wasn’t too long before he felt a tap on his shoulder. Both he and Nino turned to face Alya and Lila. 

“Hey, Adrien you mind switching seats with me? I wanna sit to Nino” Alya announced. Adrien, however, didn't miss Nino’s slight grimace. However, Lilas's look of pure hopefulness was the thing that made Adrien slightly grimace as well.

Regardless of how Adrien felt he knew he had to say yes.

“Sure”

Meanwhile in Mendelievs….

“I call dibs on sitting next to Kagami!!!” Chloe loudly exclaimed and made a mad dash towards the empty seat next to Kagami.

Nathaniel immediately moved to sit next to Marc. Sabrina sat next to Juleka. Ivan decided to sit next to Max. At first, it was a slight adjustment getting used to Mendelievs class, she taught and had control over her class. No way was she going to permit and outburst or arguments when she taught. However, she did permit them to talk whenever she was done teaching. 

“Marinette just  quit ?” Probed Aurore. She was furious at the fact that Marinette was essentially driven to quitting.

“Yup” Chloe responded popping the p, “But now she’s staying with Family in Gotham for a bit, she even texted to mention how she might transfer schools and stay in the states”

“B-but sweet Marinette in  Gotham, don’t they have like a gajillion crazy villains. At least the Akumas’ damage in Paris can be reversed  and  they're only temporary” Aurore mentioned

“Marinette is tough, plus she’ll be away from this crazy school” Nathaniel offered while finishing up a sketch for his and Marcs’ comic

“Plus Marinette said she’ll call us once she’s comfy and everything” Chloe finished.

“Poor Marinette”

Wayne Manor

Gotham City, USA

9:00 a.m

Marinette knew Mr.Wayne was rich but holy cow, he makes both the Agreste and Bourgeious fortune look like pennies. She never understood how rich he was. Seriously he has a fleet of luxury vehicles in his garage. The inside of the manor looks photo-ready, AND all of his kids have gone to a 30k a year school. Thank God she was going to a Normal School.

Mr.Wayne made sure to take Maman and Papa to a  luxury hotel suite to get them settled before bringing them back to the Manor. She quickly said goodbye and gave them big kisses on their cheeks. 

Marinette was occupied still gaping at the giant Chandelier when suddenly she was face-to-face with two teenagers. 

Dick immediately noticed that there was an awkward staring contest going on and moved in to ease the awkwardness.

“Marinette this is Cassandra shes the fourth oldest,” Dick said while introducing the two. Marinette was occupied gaping at Cassandra. She was so pretty. Cassandra took a quick step forward before quickly putting her hand on Marinette's shoulder. 

“Cass” She gently chided. 

Marinette only slightly stumbled before yanking out a sweater from her duffle bag and practically shoving it at her. Sue her she was intimidated and impressed.

“Me?” Cass was surprised. She took the sweater but couldn’t help but hold it close to her. It was so soft. Marinette made it for her, and she didn’t know her!!! Cass couldn’t help the grin that was overtaking her face. She made sure to get closer to take a long glance at Marinette who was giving a cynical Jason his own sweater, along with gloves.  Nervous. jittery. uncomfortable.  

“Huh, you are most definitely too sweet for this family" Jason couldn't help but coo at the sight of the petite blue-eyed girl.

"I'm Jason Todd,  technically dead and black sheep of the family. Whenever you get tired or pissed at Bruce, trust me that is a guarantee, feel free to crash at my place.” He piped. While shrugging off his leather jacket and putting on his new turtleneck sweater. Holy crap was it soft.

Technically Dead? What in the world!? Are they choosing to ignore that!?  Marinette was so confused. Seriously first off Cass has the biggest grin on her face and seems to be studying Marinette, Jason Todd just admitted he’s still technically dead!? Are all siblings this confusing? She’ll have to ask Luka. Seeing as he seems to be the only one in their friend group who has a sibling. 

Taking a glance around the entrance. Marinette noticed that she suddenly had older siblings and even a  younger one. One week was all it took. Marinette took a glance at Cass she mirrored her grin. She realized one thing. 

THIS FAMILY IS INSANE!!!

And now she's a part of them. Crap.

Chapter Text

“Wait a minute. You guys have an almost-deathiversary?” Marinette asked slightly puzzled.

Dick took Marinette to see Jason on his “almost-Deathiversary”. Jason was kidnapped and nearly killed by the Joker when he was younger but they had to stage his death to deter any further attempts on his life.

“Yup, Jason is not in the happiest person on this day for obvious reasons , right now he’s probably somewhere in Gotham getting Drunk” Dick replied, “I'll go look for him later of course but right now I’m here to drop off food from Alfred and your sweets” Dick was most likely gonna spend tonight hunting for a drunk Redhood. 

“Don't make eye-contact with anyone and stick close, I’ll keep ya safe”   

Safe!? She was currently standing outside an old run-down apartment building in Crime Alley . Everything around her looked dark and scary. The people were constantly scurrying around. Heck, even the rats look sleazy. She's pretty sure she saw a mugging a few blocks back. 

Was the boarding school alternative still available?

Some people just flat out stopped and stared at them. Marinette and Dick did their best trying to dress normal-ish. Unfortunately, that was sort of difficult to do when you're the son and daughter of a billionaire and you're a fashion designer. 

However, they stuck it through since they’ve been itching to check up on him since he hadn’t been around the manor in two weeks. What Marinette didn’t realize that Red Hood was in the Batcave last night nursing a few bruises. 

She caught one guy staring at them for one second too long she inched closer to Dick. Dick quickly wrapped an arm around her shoulder while glaring at the guy. Hey, you can never be too safe. All of the Wayne kids have been kidnapped at least once before. Maybe that explains why Marinette gets constantly targeted by akumas? Scratch that, it’s probably just her luck working against her. 

Speaking of Luck, Tikki demanded to stay behind with the rest of the Kwamis. They claimed to have some shows to catch up on. Marinette left them in her enormous closet with her new tablet and some food. 

Her parents had left to go back to Paris yesterday, of course, there were tears and of course, most of them were from her dad. Dick was sniffling in the background “What I’m a sucker for family moments, bite me ” Marinette already missed them but luckily technology existed. 

Her parents were going to send Bruce her transcripts so she could enroll in a school in Gotham. Marinette was regretting agreeing to it. She’s going to be the new girl halfway through the year, bleugh. She tried advocating for homeschooling but she was overruled by all three parents. Apparently, she needed “human-interaction”, pfffttt.

Dick quickly opened the apartment building door to let Marinette in. They went to the highest floor. Once they were in front of Jason's apartment door, Dick was able to quickly pick the lock and disable the security. Marinette placed her platter of baked sweets on the counter while Dick went over to the fridge to restock, taking a glance to make sure Marinette wasn’t watching he slipped in a scotch, the good scotch along with his note. He had to steal that from Bruce's alcohol cabinet. The man has so many kids he needs to drink every now and then.

Marinette thought Jason's apartment looked nice. Which was confusing since the outside looked like a mess. 

“Come on Maribug let's get out before we’re caught by a pissed off grouch” Dick knew that he wouldn’t come home for a few more minutes but he wanted to keep Marinette from exploring and noticing a few interesting things. “We gotta go shopping!!!” 

At that Marinette immediately bolted out. It’s been a few days since she's gotten her hands on a sewing machine or new fabric. Most of the Fabric she brought with her is gonna end up being used on a new dress for Bruces “Girlfriend’ Selina kyle.  

Her commissions were stacking up and she had ended up filling up her current sketchbook. Hawkmoth has been behaving himself so she hasn't had a good excuse to teleport to Paris and pick up a few of her supplies. Which sucks. Seriously, the one time she needed an Akuma and Hawkmoth decides to be decent. 

She jumped into Dick's car parked a few blocks away in a garage. Dick slides in and off they went to the mall. Marinette couldn’t wait!!! She was gonna be surrounded by fabrics and they’re gonna eat at a cafe with Tim afterward to actually make sure the Dude actually eats.

Marinette took her sketchbook and quickly started flipping through and checking what designs she wanted to create. She jotted down what materials she’s gonna need. 

Dicks’ phone suddenly started blaring to girls just wanna have fun . Uh-oh, it's Jason. Quickly he put it on speaker

“Yello, Cute one speaking”

“YOU FRIGGIN TRESPASSER!!!”

“Hiya Jaybird, Ya like your gifts?”

“Tell Mari thanks for the sweets, she's a gift to humanity YOU, ON THE OTHER HAND, CAN GO FU-” Marinette decided that this was the perfect time to intervene.

“Hi Jay!” she chirped.

“-UGGER OFF, Hi Mari, your sweets were great!? I can wait to eat all 20 of these macaroons” he said softly. Jason was pretty sure that Marinette was the most sweetest child in the world. And that she must be defended at all costs. Plus it was nice to have a civilian sibling for once.

20!! Marinette knows for sure she made 22, she quickly gave a glare at Dick, who was focusing a bit too intently on the road in front of him. The nerve. 

College Francis Dupont

Paris, France

11:00 am

All of the kids in Francis Dupont were happily eating their lunch in the courtyard. Unfortunately, that happiness was soon going to come to an end. Alya was standing up and was busy trying to get everyone's attention, most of the students were ignoring her. 

Once Alya felt that she had the necessary attention she started “ HELLOOO everyone, As you all know a spot for the planning committee for the spring dance was suddenly uh vacated ,” At that, a lot of people turned to glare at Alya, they all knew good and well that she was the reason why Marinette had to drop out of the planning committee. “which is why I want to recommend that we move ahead without them and ensure that this dance is awesome ” Alya finished. 

The only reason she was making this announcement was because Alya realized that any plans they had written up back when Marinette was on the committee were suddenly missing. She needed the rest of the committee to get those plans back. Marinette's original plans had Jagged Stone as a guest performer. The Grand Hotel catering for food and desserts being given by her parents bakery. None of those things can happen without Marinette. And Alya does not want to beg her . 

Chloe Bourgeois wanted revenge . Chloe along with Kagami and Aurores made sure to get rid of all the previous dance plans. She couldn’t possibly let Rossi and Cesaire get away with what they did to Marinette. She wants to watch them flounder. It would be unfair to make the whole school suffer, so they were going to help a bit with the planning for the school dance. But everything else she’s going to make life difficult for Bustiers class. They can say adios to their fun field trips.

Chloe, Kagami, and Aurore stayed up all night plotting their revenge, unfortunately, they had to wait a few weeks to set their plans into motion. Marinette won’t know about anything only until they figure out what she can do to get her revenge. 

They're going to call her tomorrow to give her status updates. Revenge is going to be sweet .

Chapter Text

Marinette was bundled up in her blankets on her very expansive bed and was focused on the screen in front of her. An irritated Chloe Bourgeois, an impatient Aurore, and a glaring Kagami, who was sharpening her saber, were staring back at her. Marinette made a quick mental note to ask her how many sabers she has. Juleka had confiscated her saber, unfortunately, it seemed like Kagami had spares. 

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“Kaalki quick open a portal to that old alley, It’s better to transform there, Tikki you can finish Game of Thrones later” Marinette ordered a previously napping Kaalki, while pulling out a miffed Tikki from her mini-room in the closet. Tikki was almost done with the first season of Game Of Throne. The only reason it was taking so long was mostly that she had to watch it whenever Marinette wasn’t around due to uh reasons.

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Both Parties were staring at each other, one in shock the other in fear.

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“Think about it, why would she want to talk to you,” Chloe mumbled struggling to shake off the sleepiness “Right now she only sees you as the boy who refused to stand up for her, Against the girl that threatened her in the bathroom”. 

Adrien was silent at the other end of the phone. “She told you about Lila threatening her in the bathroom?” Nonono. That was the worst thing that could happen. Now rumors are going to spread.

Chloe could only scoff in response. She knew exactly what Adrien was worrying about.

“Pfft uh yeah, Mari told us everything, gotta say Adrien I wasn't that surprised when she told us, Kagami on the other hand….”

“SHE TOLD KAGAMI!?!?!?” Adrien shouted upset. Upset at Marinette for telling everyone, even Kagami. He’s noticed that Kagamis been blowing him off and sometimes even downright refusing to talk to him at social events they both attend. 

Marinette told Kagami and Chloe everything about Lila, Adrien, and Alya when she called them a week ago. Chloe's heart broke at hearing the girl sob. Kagami was enraged, in fact, that was what spurred her into starting to plot revenge. Karma would wreak havoc on everyone who dared hurt the bluenette

“Yes Adrien Kagami Knows and before you go off and get all flustered, No we haven't spread rumors or told anyone. At Marinette's insistence." She spat. Adrien didn't deserve to be protected. But poor Marinette still refused to take any drastic actions.

“Thank you, Chloe” The Model still had the nerve to thank her and ignore Marinette's kind act. She's had enough. Sitting up straighter in bed Chloe opened her laptop and started typing an email to Marinette.

“You know who else she’s been helping Adrikins?” she said in a honey-laced voice, sickeningly sweet. 

This familiar voice caused a sense of growing dread in Adrien's stomach. He wasn't talking to P. M Chloe aka “Post Marinette” Chloe anymore, he was talking to the old Chloe Bourgeois, and Plagg help him if he somehow pissed her off. Swallowing down the sense of dread he pressed on.

“Who?”

“Nino, you remember him right? The guy you claimed was your best friend? But then again you turned your back on him, that seems to be a trend with you these days”

Nino. Of course, he remembered about Nino. Nino called him tearfully seeking comfort from his best friend after his breakup with Alya. Adrien could only weakly offer some comfort. HEY! He was dealing with his own stuff. Ladybug stole Plagg from him. He wasn’t Chat Noir anymore. Also, he didn't want to get dragged into the conflict. Plus he thought that Nino was overreacting. Alya deserved a second chance. Right?

“W-we’re still best friends” he stuttered out. Nino has Marinette's number!? That's great he can get her number from him!!!!

“Hmmph yeah sure whatever helps you sleep at night.” Chloe had the right to speak her mind. She was tired and grumpy. A deadly combination. If she had eye bags in the morning because of him she was going to block the boy,

 “I'm beginning to think that you’re new bestie is Lila” she mentioned

“That's ridiculous, we're just friends”

Chloe scoffed. “Your standards for friends are ridiculously low. But whatever apparently sleazy Liars are your type”

Adrien was starting to get upset at all these sly remarks he was getting from Chloe. He called her for comfort. Who did she think she was? If he wanted sly comments he would have called Marinette, but he still didn't have her number. Wait a minute. She's been talking to Nino!!! He could just call Nino and get her Number from him!!! He didn't need Chloe! 

“Fine Chloe, you know what? turns out I don’t even need your help anymore,” He said smug, happy to have the upper hand. To be honest he half expected Chloe to beg him to not hang up on her.

“Why even bother calling me then?” that....was not the response he was expecting. Fine, it was probably all an act.

“I needed Marinette's number but then I realized that my bro Nino probably has it, so yeah I don’t need your help”

“But he b-” Ha now she was going to beg him not to hang upon him. Well, he wasn't going to give her the chance. 

“Goodbye Chloe” 

Hanging up he quickly tried to call Nino. After only receiving a dial tone, he shot him a few texts, expecting Nino to respond quickly. He always has.

After receiving none Adrien couldn’t help but be slightly annoyed. Nino probably forgot to charge his phone due to him still being sad over the breakup. This is why Adrien needs to convince Nino to get back together with Alya. He was a mess without her! His phone suddenly binged. Quickly checking, he was disappointed to see it was Chloe. Probably to try and get back on his good side. Ha.

Queen Bee: Nino told me to tell you that he is uh not in “The mood to deal with you and your b.s” tonight.

What!? No Chloe was obviously lying in some weird attempt at getting Payback. Adrien NEEDED to talk to Nino right now because Adrien was going to the states for some gala for the weekend! 

Adrikins: Chloe stop fooling around

Queen Bee: Trust me I'm not kidding around, I'm here trying to get some sleep and instead I'm serving as Nino's secretary apparently

Queen Bee: Leave him alone, if you had listened to me earlier you would have realized that Nino added your number to a nice Lil ol place known as the ~block list~

Adrikins: CHLOE YOU HAVE TO TALK TO HIM PLEASE DON'T LET HIM DO IT.

Queen Bee: hmmm let me think about it

At that Adrien let out a sigh of Relief, Chloe will talk some sense into Nino and everything will be back to normal between him and Nino. Even Marinette once he got her number from Nino!!

Queen Bee: I thought about it

Hope bloomed in Adrien's Chest, everything is finally going to be back to normal again!!

Queen Bee: N o

Queen Bee: You’re getting muted for the rest of the night, consider that payback for waking me up so early, I have a trip this weekend. I need all my beauty sleep, you should consider learning about it

Wait a minute if she is going where Adrien thinks she is then there's hope for him after all!!!

Queen Bee: Toodles~

Adrikins: Wait a minute where are you going this weekend

Queen Bee: None of your business

Chapter Text

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Alya couldn't get it out of her mind. She was pissed. Marinette this Marinette that. That monster pulled her Nino away from her. That monster is the reason why there is so much hate against her now. The video of Marinette confronting chat went crazy viral but instead of the comments being flooded with hate towards Marinette it was filled with support. Alya couldn't help but sneer at the thought. Everyone seemed to love Marinette even her ex-boyfriend-no Alya was going to get him back.

“NINO DON’T DO THIS” Alya yelled in a final desperate plea. A small part of her realizes that she may be in the wrong. But she couldn't bring herself to admit it.  Oh, how she wished she could make everyone forget what she's done. Make Marinette forget or even better just disappear. 

Suddenly Alya felt a familiar surge of energy.

A soothing sinister voice filled her mind, blocking everything else.

“Hello forget-me-not, I am hawkmoth, I am willing to help you extinguish everyone's memories and more importantly extinguish Marinette Dupain-Cheng.In exchange, you will get ladybugs and chat noirs miraculous. Do you accept?”

Alya knew she shouldn’t. This was hawkmoth of all people, how could she betray ladybug by working with him? Remembering Nino, Chloe and Marinette she hardened.

“Yes, Hawkmoth” she snarled. She could do this. She can redeem herself and her blog, she’ll bring back Nino and get rid of Marinette to save Lila.

Nino was not having a good day. First, his ex gets akumatized, then he had to run more than his unathletic body is capable of and now he was desperately trying to warn his friends in the class group chat.

Normally that would be enough, unfortunately, a good chunk of the people left the group chat once Marinette left Francis Dupont. This left him hunkering down behind a disgusting dumpster trying to reach everyone else, specifically Chloe. Nino was willing to bet his hat that Alya was going to target Chloe and Marinette. He had to warn them. 

Huh? Based on Chloe's Instagram Chloe was in New York right now. Safe and far enough.

Quickly Nino checked Marinette's, hopefully, she was still safe in Goth- oh no. Marinette was in New York City too. Fuck. In a last-ditch effort, he sent a message to what he hoped(italics) was Kagami's number. He only got it from Adrien when he was stuck planning a class party alone and was told to invite Kagami. 

“Hello Nino” a voice growled into his ear. With a flinch, he tried to crawl away from what he knew was Alya. 

“Alya, come on break Hawkmoth's control, you know that dude is flat-out evil. Please see reason” he pleaded desperately. 

Akuma-Alya only smirked “Why would I? A few jewels and I can get rid of all my problems” 

She raised her ray gun aiming at Nino. “Matter of fact you’ll be helping me with that” she started rapidly firing at Nino who was running away.

Nino turned and dodged, instincts honed from his time superheroing. He turned just in time to see a bright flash.

Forget-me-not realized she hit her mark once she saw Nino crumple to the ground.

A painful suddenly hum went through her mind, and with a groan Forget-me-not clung to her head, suddenly Ninos Memories flooded her brain. Shutting her eyes she searched through his memories for any useful information.

Bingo. Marinette and Chloe were in Gotham.

She checked the energy bar on her gun and realized the levels have increased significantly. Enough for her to portal to New York city and get rid of those two monsters.

Forget-me-not raised her hands and from them emerged lights and sparks forming a circle straight to the metropolitan city. With a scowl, and a sudden thirst for revenge she walked through.

Chapter Text

Marinette felt stunning. Staring at her reflection in the mirror she twirled in her dress eager to see the dress sparkle. Letting the soft shiny fabric billow out. She had to design and sew this dress in under a week. So she did have to keep it a bit simple and avoid embroidery or any extra touches. The dress was of a light sparkling satin blue fabric. Ms.Potts was kind enough to do her hair for her squealing at how cute she was. Pepper had expertly pulled her hair into two space buns making sure that curls fell out adding a touch of softness to the already elegant outfit of the evening. 

Pepper had to leave in order to finish dressing up her first child, Tony, and leaving early to oversee the finishing touches of the gala. Billionaires and their egos can be exhausting.

“You ready Mari?” Jason asked as he stepped into her hotel suite. 

Marinette frowned once she took in Jason's outfit for the night, “That is most definitely not MDC sanctioned outfit for a Stark party”. Tsk tsk, Jason was still in jeans and wearing his a brown leather jacket over a random t-shirt.

“Who said I was even going to go?” Jason teased flicking her forehead before Marinette could dodge. “But don’t worry I’m just going to wait last minute to change, I like stressing out Bruce every chance I get” with a grin he made sure to add “Love the dress and the hair”.

“Thanks but you really should stop messing with Mr.Bruce like that” she quipped, she was prepping to shove Jason out and into his hotel room to change. She’ll be damned if she lets her family go to a party looking like fashion faux-pas. Hello, she was an aspiring fashion designer after all.

“Nah, it's too much fun,” he responded slumped on the couch munching on an overpriced hotel apple. He was still waiting on his truck from Bruce. Plus the only reason he was here was that Dick made him swear to keep an extra eye on Marinette while she did her “Gal in the chair” duties for ladybug. But that was boring and he liked instigating shit.

“You didn't hear this from me, But Timmers is wearing the wrong shade concealer in a poor attempt to hide his eyebags” 

“What,” Marinette asked in a low voice. 

“You heard me” Consider this payback for not hacking the FBI database for me Tim. 

Faster than a flash Marinette dove for her makeup bag and dashed out of the hotel room towards the poor unsuspecting boy with awful concealer. Alfred wasn't here to watch after the boys so she had to make sure they were all dressed and perfectly styled.

Jason on the other hand was left behind in her room blinking at the speed that the bluenette went from threatening to helpful. She was probably going to be another mini-Alfred. Jason was still debating if that was a good or bad thing.

From the hallway, Jason suddenly heard shouts. The shouts of an anti-sleep teenager vs. a teenage fashionista.

“GET AWAY”

“TIM ITLL BE EASIER IF YOU CEASE NOW” A creepy cheerful voice sang ominously. 

Eh, probably a good thing.

Marriott Hotel 

9:36 pm

Marinette bounced back into the suite glancing around the room for a familiar face.

“Maaaaarinetttttttttttttteeeeeeeeeeee” sang a flurry of yellow who quickly slammed into her before Marinette could register whose voice it was.

“CHLOE!!!” She squealed before hugging the blonde back. 

“I'm so happy you managed to come” 

Chloe scoffed “As if my Maman would ever skip out on an exclusive Stark party”

Speaking of which “Marinette not to be judgemental or anything, but how exactly did YOU get to come? Is your American family prominent?”

“Hehehe, uh you might want to sit down for this Chlo” Marinette giggled out nervously motioning for Chloe to follow her to a more private spot, preferably a carpeted spot to cushion Chloe's fall if, when, she faints.

Stark Tower 

9:50 pm

“So Brucie-boo what is it like to be a new father to a, what is it now? Sixth child, by the way, congrats it's a girl!” Tony teased draping himself across his shoulders, Bruce could only scowl and shove the engineer off his shoulders.

“She is my precious little girl, who I love equally as my other children” Stepping to the side in order to dodge a clingy engineer, he continued “Honestly I credit her cheerful and all-around lovely spirit to her adoptive parents” Bruce couldn’t help but slump a little at the fact that he wasn't there for all of his daughter's life.

“Cheer up Bruce, she could've done so much worse for a biological father, think about mine” Tony comforted in a moment of genuineness.  

“That's not really comforting”

“Eh, I tried”

“So you thinking about introducing this youngun to the life of a superhero?” 

Bruce hasn't really planned out how to tell his daughter about their side activities even though she has been living at the manor for a while. Which has had Alfred and the boys working overtime to make sure Marinette didn't realize the often disappearing act of his family members.

Luckily for him, Dick or Jason  or both were always up for distracting her. Sometimes however they were sometimes a bit too eager to do it. They have Come back from patrol once to see the three of them slumped on the couch sleeping in a pile all with elaborate braids. Somehow the three of them managed to get their hands on hair extensions and even flowers to decorate their braids in the middle of the night.

Shaking off his memory Bruce remembered to answer “No way, so far I have failed to spare all my other children this life of vigilantism, I plan on telling her soon but I have to figure out how to do it in a gentle non-shocking way” Maybe he could have Dick do it- wait no he can’t. Bruce remembered that they were exactly on speaking terms currently. again.

Maybe Alfred?

“Piece of unwarranted advice” Tony drawled, “But tell her and just rip off the bandage, trust me it is not fun to be the family member who realizes their loved one puts their life at risk” he shivered. 

Bruce raised his eyebrow, Tony wasn’t exactly subtle when he announced his alter ego to the world. 

“Peter,” Tony quickly answered at Bruce's raised eyebrow, “Trust me the “chat” I had with his aunt was one that would scare even the bravest of men” 

Bruce was conflicted. He did want to include Marinette into the family entirely, but doing so would mean exposing her to the Bat side of him. A side that he has been told, more than once, is less than open, warm, or comforting. He let out a sigh trying to relieve the tenseness in his shoulders.

Snapping Bruce out of his thoughts Tony smacked Bruce on the shoulder, leading him towards the hotel suite's door. “Well, Brucie let's get the whole gang and head over to the hotel, the party won't start until I’m there.”

Later ….

Chloe had shockingly taken the news in stride. She did almost pass out, Marinette expected as much. But once Marinette had stuffed Chloe with a few cookies the blonde was good as new, which was unfortunate for Marinette's ears.

“AHHHHHHHHHHHH OH MY GOD, MARINETTE THIS IS THE BEST THING THAT COULD EVER HAPPEN AHHHHHHHHHHH”

Really unfortunate. 

A knock on Marinette's suite door jarred Chloe out of her swoon. 

“Marinette, it's time to head over to the gala” 

“Be right there Mr. Bruce!” Marinette answered dragging Chloe up and doing last-minute adjustments to hair, make-up or dresses, etc. 

`Marinette quickly opened the door and that's how Chloe came face to face with Bruce Wayne and Tony  Stark arguably two of the wealthiest men in the world. One of them was an actual literal superhero.  So yes one could say that Chloe was a bit awe-ed. 

Which was an odd feeling for Chloe Bourgeois, the reformed spoiled daughter of Paris’s Mayor and Fashion Designer Audrey Bourgeois. 

“Thank you for joining us, Ms. Bourgeois, I know my daughter is very fond of you” Bruce greeted the awestruck blonde.

“Hello, Mr.Bruce we’re ready to head on over and- wait where Tim?”

“The genius insomniac? Brucie went ahead and stuffed him in the Limo to take an accelerated nap” Tony explained rolling his eyes, rushing along the Waynes and the Bourgeois, not willing to face the wrath of his pregnant and beautiful wife if they were late. Tony couldn't wait to show Brucie how fun Stark parties were.

Tony sure was looking forward to a relaxing evening at the gala.