Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Gabriel Agreste stood at the window in his office, a steel gaze on the front gates of the manor.

Why had he allowed her to spent the night at her apartment rather than in her usual guest room? Because she needed to pick up some stuff, she had said. Because she needed to water her plants, she had said.

He had insisted she took one of their Mercedes. She shouldn't have to walk, even though the warm weather would allow a stroll.

With a car, she should have been here by now.

Nathalie was never late.

She would call if something held her up.

Checking his phone again for the hundredth time in the last minutes, Gabriel found still no messages from his assistant.

Thankfully, Adrien was on spring vacation, so he wouldn't need to be prepared for the day.

When Nathalie was 20 minutes late, Gabriel called her but got to voicemail after a few rings.

“Nathalie, I don't know what happened, but please call me back.” He sighed and added, “I'm worried.”

What if something had happened to her? If she had had a car crash, the car would have informed him, since it was connected to their system. Locating it didn't work either.

Maybe Nathalie had overslept? He called her again, and again the voicemail answered.

“Father, have you seen Nathalie?” Adrien peeked through the crack in the door.

“No. What is it?” Gabriel didn't advert his gaze from the street.

“Nothing, I was just hungry. And the chief's on leave.”

“There must be some croissants left in the kitchen,” Gabriel said dismissively. Too absorbed he was in his current task.

He heard Adrien leave.

What was he supposed to do? Call the police? Sure, and tell them what? Officer, my assistant has been late for 20 minutes, I'm afraid she had died from a magical illness I can't disclose to you, and I'm a fool for letting her be on her own in her current state.

He had had no right to force her to stay, she wasn't his wife. And she needed to get some more things. So she could stay longer in the house where he could keep an eye on her.

And now he couldn't. Because he had no idea where she was. She could've passed out at her apartment and he wouldn't be able to help.

Gorilla was out for several tasks like picking up the school book from Miss Dupain-Cheng, which Adrien had asked him to. Otherwise, Gabriel would've taken that car to check on Nathalie.

He put a hand against his forehead. What rich family had only two cars? Yes, one with an agoraphobic father that never leaves his house and a teenage son with a chauffeur.

Scolding he opened the note app and typed Reminder: Call Miss Tsurugi and buy another car for emergencies. Preferably self-driving.

Not that he intended to transform into Hawkmoth in the backseat and pick up magic villains.

Actually, that could come in handy.

Just when Gabriel was about to call Gorilla and ask him, when he would be back, something pulled up at the front gates.

But it wasn't a car, it was a red motorcycle. A reporter?

The person on the bike waved, and then Gabriel saw a red strand coming out from the braid under the helmet.

Immediately, he pressed the button to open the gates and the motorcycle drove onto the front yard.

Gabriel speed-walked through the foyer, almost colliding with Adrien, who had emerged from the dining room.

As the duo went down the stairs, the woman clad in a tight black leather suit parked the bike before turning the loud thing off.

Adrien's eyes shone in excitement.

Nathalie secured the bike on the kickstand and got off. Under the black helmet with a now opened tinted visor, a few strands of her braid came loose, falling into her face, which was flushed red.

“I'm so sorry, sir. The Mercedes broke down when I tried to start it. I called the mechanic, and it seems to be a severer technical issue. They had to tow it, but the insurance will send a replacement vehicle around noon,” Nathalie explained fast.

He was definitely not distracting by how good she looked in leather.

“It's alright. I'm glad you're okay.” A call would've been nice. Gabriel eyed the bike. “What's with that?”

“Oh, I own it for a couple of years now, though I don't really have the time to drive it anymore.”

“Can I sit on it?” Adrien beamed.

“Uhm...” Nathalie searched Gabriel's eyes for approval and he nodded. Not exactly showing it, he loved to see his son so excited. Nathalie smiled. “Sure.”

Adrien ran toward the motorcycle – a Ducati if Gabriel was correct – and Nathalie handed her helmet over to Gabriel.

“Just swing one leg over like you get on a bike.”

Nathalie stood in front of the motorcycle as Adrien got on the seat. His feet barely reached the ground, but enough that he didn't lose balance. Letting go of the handlebar,

Nathalie went to Adrien's left side, pulled the hand lever, and wiggled her foot around the pedal until it clicked into place to her satisfaction.

“Are you ready?” Nathalie said with a small smirk and Adrien nodded eagerly.

She went to the other side, put the key back in, and turned it. While pressing the starter, she twisted the throttle with a flick of her wrist and the Ducati uttered a roar.

Adrien grinned at the feeling of rough vibrations of several dozen of horses under him.

“To rev up, carefully turn the handle,” Nathalie instructed him by demonstrating the movement. “Yes, good.”

The blonde boy kept twisting his hand, earning sweet sounds from the engine. Nathalie looked over to Gabriel, a slight frown on his face, hugging the helmet to his chest.

He knew where this was going and he didn't like it.

“Nathalie? Can I drive around the yard?” Adrien asked, eyes glinting in expectation.

“That you have to ask your father,” she shrugged, knowing he would definitely say no.

“Dad!” Adrien exclaimed and Gabriel perked up at the nickname. “Can I drive around the yard?”

For a moment, Gabriel didn't know how to respond. On one hand, this was very dangerous. He had heard of enough motorcycle accidents. Yet, none of them included a 15-year-old in their family's front yard. And Adrien looked so very happy.

“Fine. But put on all protectors you have.”

Nathalie held the bike and Adrien jumped off, screaming “thank you”s all the way up to his room.

Gabriel approached her when she turned the bike off and placed it on the stand again. “Have you ever had an accident?”

Initially confused, Nathalie looked at him. “Uh yes, when I was 17 and had a smaller bike, I broke my shoulder, but nothing serious. My father however rode for 40 years and never had an accident.”

“Good.” That was at least something.

-

A few minutes later, Adrien returned looking like one of these kids from a Japanese game show. He was wearing hiking boots, shinguards, kneepads, a protector vest, and biking gloves. “Is this alright?”

Gabriel had to suppress a grin at how ridiculous his son looked.

“Here, put this on.” Nathalie grabbed the helmet out of Gabriel's grasp and handed it over to Adrien, who put it on. She shook Adrien's head to make sure the helmet wasn't too big and opened the visor so he could see and hear her. “Alright, let's go.”

The boy climbed onto the flame-red motorcycle.

“You saw how I started it? With that button?” The helmet nodded. “Okay, now it's your turn.”

Adrien pressed the button, and after a miserable rattling, the motor purred. He rejoiced.

“The green light means there's no gear,” Nathalie pointed to the dashboard, “so the bike won't move on its own. However, if you pull the lever on your left hand, you can switch into first gear by kicking the pedal down.”

Adrien did as he was told and the green alert went off.

“You got two breaks, front wheel is at your right hand, and back wheel is on your right foot. Be careful, they are strong.” Adrien nodded again.

“Are you ready?”Adrien nodded more furiously.

“Carefully let the left lever - the clutch - go and the bike will slowly start moving. If you want to stop, just pull it again and break.”The teenager unclenched his hand slowly and Gabriel was tempted to look away, in case something would happen. But instead of going forward, the motorcycle hopped once and turned off again. Adrien looked at Nathalie with wide eyes.

“No problem,” she reassured him. “Try again, this time more sensitively.”

He started the bike once more and this time actually got it moving, despite some resistance from the engine.

Nathalie was always next to Adrien as he drove at walking speed. “And now, carefully stop.”

When Adrien's hand pulled the clutch, the bike got quieter. But he put too much force into breaking, so he instantly came to a stop, almost losing balance.

Yet, Nathalie didn't seem to mind. It made Gabriel wonder, how many people she had taught driving. Of course, she was a good teacher, otherwise she wouldn't have been Adrien's personal one before he had gone to public school.

“Do it a couple more times, and you will get a better feeling for it,” Nathalie said and went to where Gabriel was at the bottom of the stairs. Together they watched Adrien start and stop several times until his movements became smoother.

Gabriel sometimes gazed over to Nathalie to see the proud grin on her face, work most likely forgotten for the time being.

When Adrien's stop-and-go circles became more confident, Nathalie stepped forward and lifted her hand. Slowly the bike came to halt next to her. “If you want, you can try to start with some gas. When you feel the point the bike starts moving, turn your right hand just a tiny bit. And then you can try to stop with your right foot, then with the left one, whatever you want.”

Adrien confirmed and shifted his undivided attention back to the task.

Once again, it took him a couple of tries, a hopping motorcycle, and a small wheelie until it looked smooth again. He stopped with his right foot on the ground, then after a sway with both, but he practiced.

“He's a natural,” Nathalie said to Gabriel.

“I'm not exactly pleased about this.” He scowled. This child was growing up way too fast.

Full of sympathy, Nathalie turned to face him. “But look at him, how happy he is. You want him to be happy, don't you?”

Like always, she was right. Gabriel sighed. His son indeed looked like he was living his best life. Though Gabriel wasn't a fan of the killer machine Adrien was riding, he found that he may had been a bit too strict.

-

An hour later, there was an intersection drawn with chalk as well as a zig-zag course, and Adrien had convinced Gabriel to open the garage door to expand his playground. It wasn't like there were any cars stored in it.

The adults were watching Adrien stop in front of what they supposed was a red traffic light, before signaling left to disappear into the underground parking lot.

He wouldn't be bored anytime soon. Next to Gabriel, Nathalie shifted seemingly uncomfortable.

“What is it?” he asked.

“Oh it's just, the leather suit gets a little uncomfortable after a while.”

“Maybe we should go in. Since we are ahead of schedule, we can keep an eye on Adrien from the office.”

Nathalie gave a short nod of agreement and followed Gabriel inside. However, she stopped right after closing the main door and took off her boots.

“What are you doing?” The man asked confused as Nathalie opened the zipper of her one-piece.

“I'm taking the suit off?” She was checking his face and seemed to have found something. “Oh God, I'm certainly wearing my normal clothes under it.”

“I, I...” Gabriel sputtered, but she just laughed. When she had finished, she stood there in her normal pantsuit with black leather boots - which Gabriel was not going to comment - while her biking gear was draped over her arm.

They went to work quickly after Nathalie had turned her desk to be able to look out of the window. From time to time, there was a red blur in the corner of Gabriel's eyes, assuring him that Adrien had not crashed yet.

“Nothing's going to happen, sir. I didn't tell him how to switch gears.”

-

The gate opened, causing them both to look up. It revealed to be the Gorilla who came back from his trip.

Nathalie stood up to get a better view, and Gabriel went to stand behind her. Though he was a head taller, he could easily see.

The car stopped almost immediately after spotting the red bike, which he must have assumed did not belong there. Adrien – he drove more surely now – came to halt next to the driver's window and knocked. When the window was rolled down, Adrien seemed to explain the situation with wildly gesturing hands.

After a while, Gorilla nodded and Adrien did and eager round to get in front of the car and then, what looked like an escort, they drove down into the garage.

It took a while for Adrien to show up in the yard again, happily driving around.

Gabriel wondered, how there could be so much gas in such a little tank.

“You know,” Nathalie leaned against him after he failed to realize his hand had absentmindedly found her waist, “he's going to want a bike on his own now.”

“Is he even allowed to drive one yet?” Gabriel hoped the answer would be no.

“Well actually, he could get a scooter license now, or a light motorcycle when he turns 16.”

“How fast are they going?” Gabriel feared it wouldn't be walking speed.

“Scooter is about 50 kph, and motorcycle around 120 to 140, depends on the bike,” Nathalie explained.

“Out of the question,” Gabriel snapped and Nathalie recoiled slightly in his arms. “I won't give him such a suicide machine to race across the Boulevard Périphérique.”

“The speed limit there is only 70,” she retorted.

“Whatever.” It's not like he himself drove that much these days.

“Just think about it. It'd be a great opportunity for him to become more independent and conscientious. Plus, he will get driving experience before being let loose with a car.”

Gabriel flinched at the memory of his first car and how he had totaled it on a wet road because he had absolutely no idea what he was doing. Obviously, this had been before he could afford the luxury of a chauffeur.

There were many scooters and bikes in Parisian traffic, which wasn't by the way as bad as people claim it to be. Somehow, there were only a few bike accidents reported. Maybe it wouldn't be such a bad idea. If he couldn't bring his mother back, at least he could buy him a bike. And it was really hard to say no to Nathalie when she was melted against his chest.

“I'll take it into consideration.”

“Thank you, sir. Should we look after him? Adrien's probably hungry, the chief's on leave.”

Gabriel let go of her and they went outside.

When Adrien noticed them he drove towards them excited to show what he had learned.

“This is so much fun! I never want to get off again!”

“Aren't you hungry? We could eat something,” Nathalie eyed Gabriel, “together.”

“Yeah, I could really go for some food,” Adrien admitted. “How do I park?”

“Just turn the key and put out the sidestand.”

Adrien did as told and after stripping off all protectors, they went to the kitchen.

-

Unsurprisingly, Adrien's knowledge of the kitchen was better than Gabriel's, because the boy immediately searched through the cabinets. A piece of Gabriel wondered, how often he would sneak in here for a midnight snack. Oh, to have the metabolism of a 15-year-old.

“Dad, I was wondering...” Adrien looked away. “Can I get a bike myself? I know, I didn't behave perfectly and my math's an A-, but I'd be so careful with it. Nathalie can show me some things, and I can learn how to repair it myself and stuff-”

“Adrien-” Gabriel interrupted, but the kid rambled on.

“I googled and I'd already be able to drive a scooter or I could take some more lessons and get a real bike. You can track it or something, so you know I'm safe. And I'll text you or Nathalie all the time. I'll get the best safety gear and I'll always be careful and you can take it away at my first speeding ticket or if I get in trouble. Which I won't of course-”

“I'll think about it,” he stated.

“Seriously?” Adrien squeezed his father tightly. Gabriel's hands found Adrien's back and rubbed it awkwardly. Whenever physical affection with his son had become unusual, he didn't know, but that definitely was going to change. Adrien had become a young man, who deserved some freedom.

Out of the corner of his eye, Gabriel saw Nathalie smiling fondly at them, while taking a bite of her croissant.

Chapter Text

Gabriel had agreed. Adrien figured that Nathalie had been a significant influence on that decision.

The three of them had sat together and discussed pros and cons of scooters and motorcycles, and of course, Gabriel's conditions. The vehicle would be tracked and connected to the system, Adrien would wear complete safety gear all the time, and maintenance and fixing minor issues he will learn from Nathalie. In addition to that, Gabriel had the right to revoke that agreement at any moment.

In the end, Adrien had chosen a light motorcycle. It would require more training, but it'd be worth it.

His father enrolled him in a driving school. During his free time, Adrien studied the book for the theory test. Plagg couldn't understand why he had to know all those things if he was just driving around looking at signs. To be fair, the last time he had been out before becoming Adrien's Kwami, there had been no cars or anything.

-

One day, the family trio went shopping for biking gear. Since Adrien wasn't sure what bike color he wanted to get, he went for a black helmet similar to Nathalie's. A two-piece leather suit caught his attention. As Chat Noir, he always liked leather.

Gabriel was over at the boots section, and when Nathalie joined him, he muttered how people could spend that much money on such ugly shoes. Adrien suppressed a chuckle, he found those boots pretty cool.

Nathalie also helped him pick gloves that weren't too thick but still had enough safety features. When their cart was full, Adrien happily brought all his new stuff to the checkout.

“Father?” Adrien looked around to find him in the accessories aisle.

“Just a moment. I'll meet you outside,” he dismissed, and it was on Nathalie to pay for the gear. When the cashier had packed everything in two bags, she handed them to Adrien.

“Do you need help?” Nathalie asked, but he was already dragging them out the door. However, she assisted him in lifting the stuff into the car trunk. Gabriel appeared as Adrien opened the rear door, and he seemed to hold something in his hand.

Approaching Nathalie, he revealed a small keychain with a red motorcycle, “I saw this, and it immediately reminded me of you.”

“Oh Gabriel, you didn't have to...” she tried, but the watery sparkle in her eyes betrayed her. Thanking him profoundly, she took the keychain from him, and Adrien smiled at how cute his adults were.

-

Of course, he passed the theory test on first try and was soon able to take driving lessons. The summer vacation was spent at the driving school, practicing on Nathalie's bike in the yard or even going on a ride in the passenger seat, while Nathalie leaned back and explained everything to him. It was so cool to ride with an experienced person.

Somewhere along those things, they finally went bike shopping. Adrien couldn't sleep the whole night and was ready at 9, even though they were supposed to leave around 10. He dashed into the kitchen, startling his father and assistant, the latter almost dropping her coffee.

“Can we leave now?” He knew he was way too excited, yet he couldn't help it.

“Let her at least finish her coffee, Adrien.” Gabriel was less strict these days, Adrien supposed it was Nathalie's influence.

Half an hour later, they were on their way to the dealer.

“Have you thought about what bike you want?” His father asked from the passenger seat as if he had any idea what he was talking about. At least he tried, Adrien appreciated.

“Probably too much. I want a street one like Nathalie, but I'm not sure about the brand.”

“I'm certain we'll find something to your liking.”

At the shop, the sales assistant had a few questions before taking rough measurements of Adrien's arms and legs. After testing a few different bikes, he decided on a black Kawasaki with green details. Not only the color fitted perfectly (to his alter ego), it was the most comfortable of them all.

When they finished the configuration, Adrien couldn't wait until it would finally be delivered.

-

He had already turned 16 when the admission for the driving test arrived. Seemed like no amount of money his father might or might not have spent could influence the authorities. That was probably a good thing.

His father and Nathalie wished him luck. Thankfully, the examiner was friendly, and Adrien passed all tests without errors.

With the plastic card in a fist behind his back, he approached the adults leaning against the car in a conversation while waiting for him.

They had gotten to the stage where they played jokes on each other. So, with a neutral face, he drew their attention. When Nathalie saw his expression, she was immediately sympathetic, “oh, Adrien.”

“Kidding!” He shouted after keeping the charade for 0.2 seconds and held his permit against her face. Soon, he was crushed in a hug that even Gabriel joined.

Later that day, the Kawasaki was out of the garage and free to be on the street for the first time in its life.

“Are you sure you don't want Nathalie to accompany you?” Gabriel asked again when his son put the jacket on.

“I'm fine, dad. I'll just be over at Alya's.” He assured the worried man.

“Wait here.” Gabriel then ordered and retrieved a small box before handing it to Adrien. Inside was the same key chain he had gifted Nathalie a few months prior, except this one was black and green like his bike. By the looks of it, he had colored it himself.

“Thank you!” Adrien beamed before securing it to his keys. “It's beautiful.”

He wiggled the bunch around before grabbing helmet and gloves.

Nathalie had already parked the bike upfront and checked something on the back wheel. Soon, he would learn about those things, too.

“Ready?” She smiled, and Adrien nodded eagerly. He climbed onto his bike and pulled his phone out, texting Nino that he was on his way. Then he stored it securely in his pocket and put on the rest of his gear before double-checking everything. The ride would be like two blocks, but better be safe.

When he was ready to leave, he turned around one last time to see Nathalie resting her hand on Gabriel's shoulder while saying something like, “he probably won't die.”

The ride had been hell. He'd died a thousand deaths before arriving at the apartment complex next to the park.

Nino and Alya had already been waiting for him outside when he parked at the side of the road.

“Duuude,” Nino gushed, “what a ride! I still can't believe your old man allowed you this.”

“It was mostly Nathalie, I guess.” Adrien took off and sorted his stuff.

“Well, then I know why he said yes,” he chuckled.

“What do you mean?”

“She's kinda hot, man.” Alya smacked him. “Ouch, I mean mom-hot. Whatever.”

Adrien wasn't sure he wanted to know. Thankfully, Nino changed the topic, “but tell me 'bout your bike. How much power has it?”

“15 hp. It's not much, but to be honest, it's more than enough right now,” Adrien grinned and put a hand to the back of his head. “Even second gear feels like warp speed.”

“So, how fast does it go?” Alya questioned.

“Uh, I don't know exactly. Around 120? We live in Paris, so that's not really important.”

“Yeah, you're right. Hey, you wanna come upstairs? My mom's cooking.”

Adrien nodded and followed his friends up. The Cesaire family was always really lovely, he could understand why Nino spent most of his time at their place. Alya's mom was almost as warm as Marinette's, and her food was so delicious.

While they were eating at the huge table, Mr. Cesaire turned out to be a motorcycle enthusiast explaining how he used to own several bikes before the children were born.

Adrien was invested in the conversation when Nino looked at Alya's phone and asked, “who are you texting?”

“Oh, just telling Marinette that Adrien's over. I have a feeling she might want to join.” Alya grinned. It would actually be nice to have all friends together, he thought.

About a second later, her phone rang, and Alya took it to her ear. “Hey, girl...yeah, he's here with his new bike...oh, no problem...don't worry, you'll see it tomorrow at school...bye!”

The boys waited for an explanation. “She has to help her parents preparing some cake for someone's wedding, I guess. Marinette speaks so fast I'm not sure what she's saying like half of the time.”

Adrien laughed. That, he could relate to.

Soon, they went to Alya's room playing a couple rounds of Mecha Strike 3, which was supposed to be just a couple, until Adrien looked out the window to see the street lanterns already being on.

“Oh, shoot!” he jumped up. “I didn't realize it's gotten so late.”

He pulled out his phone to throw Nathalie a quick message that he'd be on his way soon. After another Best of Three, he didn't mention.

He won, which was no surprise considering he had spent most of his free time with video games.

After putting his gear back on (he felt cool as ever) and bidding the family goodbye, he again checks his phone to find no new message. Nathalie must be busy. He would be fine.

He was not fine. Though the streets were less frequented at this time, it was still a textbook example of sensory overload.

When he was finally safe in the garage, he took a calming breath so no one would notice his anxious state. His father might get second thoughts about this whole thing.

“Nathalie? Dad?” Adrien called while stalking through the rooms. Knocking on the Atelier didn't get him any answer, same for Gabriel's part of the mansion. Only at Nathalie's bedroom door, there was a call to wait a moment.

“Sorry, we were...playing chess,” Gabriel said, and Adrien noticed how Nathalie fumbled with something before turning around to shift her attention to Adrien.

“So, how was it?” She asked kind of hastily.

“It was amazing!” I never felt so scared. “I was very cautious, and once I got the hang, it was super easy.” I almost died, like, thrice and got honked by a car. “The bike is great, Nathalie, I already made a connection! Thank you for allowing me this, guys.” I hate everything about this and kinda want my chauffeur back now.

“That's great, Adrien. It usually takes longer to master a vehicle, especially your first one.”

“I guess I'm just talented.” He tried to shrug the own lie off.

Nathalie snickered, “more than your father, for sure.”

“What's that supposed to mean?” He demanded in a playful tone. “I only destroyed one car!”

“What? You destroyed a car?” Adrien perked.

Gabriel let a breath before explaining, “I was 22, it was wet, and the car somehow slipped.”

“Oh please,” Nathalie corrected, “your tires were as old as the damn car, and you full force winded that thing around a street lamp.”

“Nathalie!” he pouted, but she just grinned and held his arm.

“Don't go to bed too late, Adrien. I'm certain you'll have an exciting day tomorrow.”

Adrien chuckled. Yeah, exciting.

-

Really, really slowly, the bike was maneuvered next to the vintage one Luka had gotten from Jagged and Juleka's purple bicycle. Almost the whole class was waiting when he arrived.

“I can't believe you're the first one to get a bike! Especially with your old man!” Kim exclaimed. “I've been saving for two years now!”

Adrien had no idea what bikes cost. “I'm sure you'll get one soon.”

“You're so gonna take me to skate competitions now!” Alix stated as if Adrien didn't get any say in this.

“Uhmm, excuse me? He will drive me around. You're also taking me home every day, right, Adrikins?” Chloé nestled to him.

“Sorry, I'm not allowed to give lifts.” Hopefully, this would work.

It did. As long as he wasn't confident in his driving, he wouldn't take any of them.

“The color is nice,” Luka says from where he stood behind Marinette. “Reminds me of Chat Noir.”

Adrien's eyes widened before he caught himself. “Hehe yeah, you're right. His aesthetic is cool, I think.”

“Now, you just need a Ladybug sticker,” he suggested, and now Adrien was sure to blush.

“I- yes, maybe.”

“What do you think, Marinette? As a designer?”

Marinette wide-eyely stared at Luka before turning to Adrien with the same expression. “Uh, no, I mean yes, a stutter- stupor- sticker would look good.”

“You might want to ask Ladybug for one next time you meet.”

“Yes, yes, I will. Thanks for the idea, Luka.” Adrien turned to check something, anything, on his bike as not to embarrass himself in front of his friends. How the hell should Adrien Agreste ask Ladybug for some merch?

-

The moment came sooner than expected.

Ladybug was battling an Akuma while Adrien was unable to transform. Stuck in the middle of the street, he watched her dodging hits from a humanoid robot thing that looked like it came straight out of a Marvel movie. He wasn't sure what the Akuma's power was as he was too far away from the fight.

Any infrastructure had gone haywire as Adrien tried to wriggle his bike out of the street to search for a hiding spot. There was no way he'd abandon it there. His parents would probably kill him if something happened

Soon enough – he had just made it to blocks north – something landed on the passenger seat with a thump.

“Drive!” They shouted, and a dotted hand appeared in his vision, pointing forward.

Instantly, he turned the handle, and Ladybug held onto his waist. He wasn't much more experienced yet, but the Miraculous cure would fix any injuries, so to hell with caution. He showed off some tricks and wound between cars, torn down lamps, and hanging traffic lights. All while giant blue laser beams struck right next to them.

“I was hoping to get my scooter, but all the Lucky Charm gave me was this madonna- antenna.” She held up the red and black stick. “I don't know what to do with it.”

“Don't worry, Ladybug. I'm sure you'll come up with something.”

Not long and the villain lost their track, making it safe for Adrien to stop on a sidewalk. As soon as they stilled, Ladybug jumped off.

“Thoughtful- ah, I mean thank you!” She did this gestury arm thingy. “Stay here, I'll come fat- back later!”

Once she was out of view, it was safe for Adrien to duck into an alley and transform.

Of course, Ladybug figured out how to use the antenna. Once the signal was blocked, Chat Noir was able to cataclysm the akumatized object without problem.

“Pound it! I need to check on my love- friend – lovely friend. Ugh, bug out!”

Adrien ran to make it there before Ladybug, and he was still out of breath when she swung by.

“Thank you for your help, my'drien- Adrien. Sorry! So uh, is there anything I can do for you! That's a cool bike.”

He did the nervous neck scratch again. “Thanks, uhm, actually there is something... My friends suggested I should get a Ladybug sticker since the colors reminded them of Chat Noir. By the way, he's pretty cool, isn't he? Whatever, I was wondering if your yoyo can make one? Since its possibilities are limited to your imagination?”

Ladybug tilted her head, and he cursed himself for letting too much Chat Noir-information slip, but she replied, “I can try.”

And when she threw it up, its sparkles actually formed a sheet. On it was the distinctive circular symbol. Together, they placed it on top of the tank, on the metal in front of the seat. “It looks great. Thanks again, Ladybug.”

Almost casually, he leaned over and kissed on the cheek. Although he wasn't sure if that might be too forward – she didn't back when he did it as Chat – he was careful to respect boundaries. Better not ruin his chances with her as Adrien, too.

“No goblem- problem. Okay, byeee!” And she was gone.

He didn't know what he expected when he arrived home, but he certainly didn't expect to enter the mansion and see his father and Nathalie standing like a wall towering over him. Though his recent growth spurt made their height less intimidating.

When he came to rest in front of them, Gabriel retrieved his phone and opened the recent entry of the Ladyblog. In the video, Adrien tore along the street with Ladybug. His bike could not be mistaken for another.

“I can explain!” He burst, “Ladybug needed my help to fight the Akuma. It was the only way to-”

Gabriel held his hand up. “Adrien, you misunderstood. I'm proud of your skills. But I disapprove of you being in harm's way. You are to seek shelter in case of an Akuma attack, you know that. Especially now that your bodyguard is not with you at all time.”

Adrien almost laughed out loud at the reminder of how often he had ditched his bodyguard in the past. And how often he was in the front line of harm's way – even sacrificing himself without his father ever knowing.

“Also, what was happening there?” Gabriel opened another video from after the attack, filmed from far away, judging by the terrible zooming quality. Damn it, Alya. “Are you and Ladybug close?”

It almost hurt Adrien to say, “no, she's just a friend. As a small thank-you for helping her, she gave me a sticker for my bike.” Because it looks like Chat Noir. Which is me, by the way.

“There's a Ladybug sticker on your bike?” Adrien couldn't read that face, so he just nodded. “That's...”

“...hilarious,” Nathalie finished.

Chapter Text

“I will not sit on that suicide machine!” Gabriel repeated for the hundredth time this morning.

“Oh my God, Gabriel, we've been through this!” Nathalie groaned.

“You are crazy, I will certainly not! This is ridiculous!”

Adrien watched this conversation ever since they started their last preparations for the trip. They had planned a weekend trip to the Vexin Francais Regional Nature Parc, a gorgeous hilly landscape located about an hour northwest of Paris.

When Nathalie had proposed the vacation, Gabriel had initially been against it, but after some convincing that it'd be a great opportunity for Adrien, he agreed. On top, he was even allowed to bring a friend.

So he had asked Nino, who unfortunately was already engaged in a DJ session that Saturday. But Alya then suggested asking Marinette, who even owned motorcycle gear because of her grandma. And luckily, she agreed immediately and got the okay from her parents.

The two were packing the last items into Marinette's backpack and the top cases on both bikes they had installed for the trip.

“Have you seen the water bottles?” He asked Marinette as he was searching the kitchen.

“They're already outside.”

It was the first non-business trip he'd taken in years. Even for the class trip to New York, his suitcase was prepacked. It was nice to sort out stuff, make a packing list, and not forget the toothbrush. They would only be away for one night, but it still felt so exciting.

“Thank you, Marinette, you're such a great help!”

While she started to make unintelligent noises, he hoped he'd learn the meaning of someday, Nathalie and Gabriel entered the kitchen. Or rather, Gabriel was chased by a Nathalie in full force.

“Why do you need to make this a drama?” She asked once she got a hold of him.

“I'm okay with you riding these rolling coffins, I even agreed on getting Adrien one, but I will not climb on that.”

“You already agreed, Gabriel!”

“Well, I disagree!” He continued his walk to wherever.

Adrien was afraid the trip might fail, but Nathalie seemed to notice his distress, so instead of following Gabriel, she said, “don't worry, he doesn't like to admit that he is scared. The schedule still stands, be ready in 20 minutes. I'll get your father.”

“Thank you, Nathalie.”

She nodded before leaving in a stride. “Gabriel? Where are you hiding?”

Long ago, he had given up on figuring out how these two work.

With Marinette, he was soon ticking everything off the list. If there was something to forget, they could still buy a replacement. Also, one night away wasn't a great deal.

About 17 minutes after the announcement, Nathalie escorted a dressed-up Gabriel to the front yard. He looked a little defeated, but Adrien wouldn't say he was entirely unhappy.

“You two have everything?” she asked.

Adrien and Marinette nodded simultaneously.

“Excellent.” She got onto her bike. “Gabriel?”

They turned to see that his father hadn't made it past the stairs' end, looking at the red helmet in his hands.

“What's wrong?”

“I can't wear this.”

“Why?” Nathalie lifted an eyebrow, preparing for a stupid answer.

“It would ruin my hair.”

“Oh, you've got to be kidding me.”

“I don't want to be on the cover of a gossip magazine looking like a poodle,” he sulked with his arms crossed.

“Gabriel, by the love of God, move your ignorant butt over. If they get a photo of you, I'll personally threaten them. And I will promise not to frame it and hang it in the office.”

“Fine.” Finally, he put the helmet on, secured it, and climbed behind Nathalie.

“When we go right, put your head on the right side, when we go left, left side. And please, don't knock your head into mine while shifting. If something's wrong, talk to me. Otherwise, just hold on to my waist...so that I am still able to breathe, Gabriel.”

“Sorry.”

Nathalie turned over to Adrien. “You remember the signs I told you, in case you need anything?”

Adrien nodded, and they started their bikes. Marinette embraced him when they rolled out of the yard behind the adults. Not even one block from home, there was a plastic-against-plastic sound, and Nathalie groaned Gabriel's name. This would be funny.

The squad fell into rhythm quickly, and Adrien just followed Nathalie out of Paris. Marinette was a great co-captain, being his second pair of eyes and even suggesting to switch gears or something. He wondered if she was able to ride, too.

The further they got out of Paris, he had the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding of the highway that was getting smaller and less frequented by the minute. Of course, he had been to the countryside before, but those endless fields, and small paths, freckled with a few villages now and then, were nothing a city kid would get used to.

Off the highway, the landscape got even more beautiful. Nathalie and Gabriel must be talking by the way her head turned to hear him better.

“It's amazing here,” Marinette said to Adrien. No longer going almost high speed, it was way easier to communicate.

“Yeah, isn't it? I can't believe my father has a decent taste in something.” At first, he was a little doubting when he proposed the vacation. There were no luxury hotels in this area to simply rent the best suites. Though Adrien had enough of being locked up with expensive paintings and furniture. They reached a village, one of these super quiet, vintage ones where every house was in a light color and had old window shutters. Could've been a photo in a French cottagecore magazine.

Nathalie turned on the signal, and Adrien took a moment to view the large, partially cracked, and overgrown wall. Behind it was a roughly tiled roof with an ancient chimney.

That must've been their house.

They entered through a gate that had been built before cars had the size of an apartment and onto a cobblestone path dividing trimmed lawn.

Upon a small hill laid a gîte surronded by blossoming trees and bushes with a cozy sitting area. The main building, as well as the extension, had the same color as the mansion back in Paris, but it looked so much more alive and inviting.

They parked their bikes on the terrace in front, which extended into the garden and around the house.

“It's beautiful!” Adrien said in awe as he looked around.

Outside of the adults' range, Marinette took off her helmet and whispered, “your father really does have taste in something.”

They watched Gabriel cussing under his breath before turning around, Nathalie following him as she tried to reason. Adrien grinned back, “yeah, but Nathalie doesn't.”

“I told you this would happen,” Gabriel grumbled while running his hand through the blond hair to prove the point. The tall, intimidating fashion mogul looked like a sad puppy with anime hair falling down to his chin.

“Get it together, Gabriel.” She rolled her eyes, clearly done with his constant drama. “Besides, it suits you.”

Although he frowned when she put a strand behind his ear, he dropped the topic.

“Let's get changed.” Nathalie turned around. “Once settled, we can decide what to do today.”

“Wait, so we don't have anything planned?” That very much doesn't sound like them.

“We thought it might be relaxing not to stick to a schedule for once.”

Adrien nearly screaked before collecting himself. “It might be.”

“Alright, meet us back here in 20 minutes.” There was a grunt as Gabriel tried to blow away a strand. “25. You do know, we all have hair in our faces all the time.”

Nathalie shoved his father inside as Adrien laughed at his grown-out surfer cut that was messing with his eyes. The back was long enough to put it in a ponytail on occasion, but the bangs hung over his face once the styling gel left. He had been told it looked nice, though.

He grabbed his stuff, made sure the bike was definitely secured, and entered with Marinette shortly after.

On the upper floor were the bedrooms, one door already closed. The other two rooms looked mainly the same, except there was a big bed in one and two smaller beds in the other.

“You take the big one,” Adrien offered.

“Oh, you can have it if you want...”

“I insist.” His good manners showed through. “Besides, I don't want you to get in trouble when I sneak off to your room.”

Marinette nodded and quickly excused herself, slamming the door.

Once Adrien put the bag down on the chair in his own room, he slipped out of the motorcycle gear and changed the shirt that had gotten a tad too warm under the leather. He also redid his hair and put his things - well, threw his things because no one would notice – in the closet.

Vacation-ready, he went downstairs to find himself being the first one. So he explored the living room and kitchen. A welcome note from the owners and some tourist pamphlets were on the dining table. Despite everything being on the Internet these days, he picked them up and skimmed through them.

Marinette came back next in a summer dress she had most likely tailored herself. Knowing Marinette, displaying her best outfits might have something to do with being on vacation with a famous fashion designer.

“You look great!” Adrien complimented. Since he didn't know a thing about sewing, he could only assume how challenging it was to make a whole dress.

“Thank you. Oh, what are you reading?” She scooped over.

Adrien gave her the one he had already read, most of them being about châteaus or national parks, some about small museums. That's when he found something that made his eyes widen.

He held it out to Marinette, who gasped, “Adventureland.”

They squeaked in excitement, suddenly being ten years younger. With her, Adrien was so glad to have found someone who was the same amount of ridiculously crazy. They always had much fun together, and he thought she was super hilarious.

“What got you all hyped?” Nathalie teased. Trotting behind her was Gabriel, now with styled hair but a neverending crease on his forehead.

The teens held the pamphlet out like it was a graded A paper.

“Adventureland?” Gabriel judged, leaning over Nathalie's shoulder. “Aren't you a bit too old for that?”

“Pleaaase, dad. I've never been to an amusement park.”

“Really?” Marinette wondered but added only for Adrien to hear, “to be honest, I'm not surprised.”

As Adrien giggled, Gabriel's frown deepened.

“Of course, you can go if that's what you want.” Nathalie swiped in and turned to Gabriel. “Besides, the museum we wanted to visit would be boring for them anyway.”

“Uh, where do you want to go?” Marinette seemed to hope it would be something about fashion.

“It's a small archaeology museum. They have a new expo we'd like to see.”

“Oh.” There went that for Marinette. “Ah, sorry, no- no, it sounds cool! I didn't know you were interested in archaeology, Nathalie.”

Nathalie smiled. “It's a hobby of mine.”

“They even did a trip to Tibet with my mom once.”

Awkward silence filled the room, and Adrien reprimanded himself for bringing up his mom.

“I remember, he told me when I brought back the superhero book,” Marinette explained to Adrien before turning to Gabriel with a wry grin, “Sorry about that again.”

“Mhm.”

“So you went to Tibet for an archaeology trip and found a book about superheroes?” Marinette's eyes narrowed. “Were you studying them?”

“My wife was very interested in those legends. With Nathalie's knowledge, we tried to explore the myth of the ancient miraculous, but we only found this book in a tourist shop.”

“So you knew there were miraculous? And the whole order of the guardian? Ah, I- I meant it was all over TV when that temple was restored, I guess.”

“Not really. Emilie believed in them, so we supported her. However, we didn't think they were real until Ladybug and Chat Noir showed up in person,” Gabriel explained.

But Marinette didn't let go, “And now? Aren't you interested in maybe getting some miraculous of your own?”

“It sounds like you are accusing me of being Shadowmoth.” There was the Gabriel Agreste facade again, telling the other person they were on thin ice. Adrien remembered when they had proven his father's innocence when he got akumatized, yet of course, Marinette couldn't possibly know that. “But no, we only indulged in Emilie's theories to satisfy her. I don't have any interest in the miraculous unless from a professional point of view. Their designs are truly inspiring, I'm sure you would agree.”

“They are well done. Though I can't say the same about the villains' designs.” Now, she was teasing her suspicion.

“Personally, it would suffice if Shadowmoth didn't akumatize my staff. Or Adrien's classmates.”

“Or Mr. Pigeon twice a week,” Adrien joked, hoping to resolve this before it became another 'Red pants vs. pink pants'-duel.

It worked when Marinette jumped in, “I've read a theory they might be bitter exes.”

“That's indeed ridiculous, right, Gabriel?” Nathalie said, and now Gabriel was the only one not laughing. “How many times has he been akumatized? 100?”

“72,” the kids said in unison. They looked at each other before Marinette added, “It was on the Ladyblog. Mr. Ramier was the first to get a magical charm.”

“It must've made Shadowmoth furious that he couldn't pettily akumatize his ex anymore,” Nathalie joined their absurd theory. Adrien didn't believe that even the supervillain could be that frustrated over a breakup. It was a funny thought, still.

“I suppose you must get ready for your kids' park,” Gabriel said indifferently.

“And we must get ready for our trip, too,” she took the man by the arm and shoved him away. “We'll stay in contact. And let me know when you'll be back, so that we can plan dinner.”

“Yes, Nathalie,” Adrien agreed. “See you later.”

Once out of the room, they heard her say, “I bet there's Shadowmoth x Mr. Pigeon fanfiction out there.”

“Shut up.”

When the footsteps had arrived on the upper floor, Marinette whispered, “I really can't judge your father. One moment he's super intimidating, and in the next, he's huffy like a child.”

“I know, I'm still trying to figure out when it's okay to joke. He's getting more relaxed, but in the end, I guess only Nathalie can actually read his moods.”

“I thought he was gonna jump at me for the Shadowmoth accusation,” Marinette giggled. “I just find it weird that he, of all people, had a rare miraculous book.”

“You didn't get it from me, but Chat Noir told Alya that they were sure he couldn't be it. But I appreciate your efforts trying to imprison my father,” he laughed.

“Ah, no, I- I didn't try- wait, did you say Alya told you?”

“Yeah,” which was obviously a lie. But way more believable than saying it was Chat Noir who casually stopped by to tell him his father was no supervillain suspect anymore.

“Ah.” Thankfully, she brought it.

“So uh, do you need anything else before we leave?”

“No, just gonna grab my bag, and I'm ready.”

“Great, Google Maps says we need 17 minutes.”

-

They had totally forgotten to update Nathalie, only typed a quick message before their way home. When Adrien and Marinette arrived at the vacation house, Nathalie's motorcycle was already back.

Once he entered the door code – which didn't fit the vibe of this gîte at all, but he figured it would be easier than giving out four keys only for two of them to get lost – the teenagers were greeted by Nathalie and Gabriel sitting on the oversized couch, her legs draped over Gabriel's lap.

“How was it?” Nathalie asked, putting her book down.

“It was amazing!” Adrien beamed when he and Marinette flopped down on the smaller sofa. “We went trampoline jumping, on a rollercoaster – many times - to the climbing garden, and what else did we do? Oh yeah, during minigolf, Marinette slipped-”

“Don't tell them that!” she grew red, but Adrien's excitement wasn't to be stopped.

“She slipped during the swing, and her ball hit someone!” He laughed.

“Oh God, are they okay?”

“Yes of course, it only hit their leg. They thought it was funny once they saw Marinette lying on the ground.”

“I don't know why I'm still so clumsy,” she facepalmed.

“Don't worry, it's cute.” At that, Marinette let out a squeak, probably in disagreement.

“Sounds like you two had fun,” Nathalie said. “I assume you've already eaten?”

“Yeah, they made the best fries! And we were clever enough to wait until we had been on the rollercoaster.” What a smart move, he praised himself.

“That's very thoughtful.” Adrien wasn't sure if that statement was intended to be sarcastic or not.

Letting it go completely, he said, “I think I need a shower. You can stay here, Marinette.”

It was funny how he could jump from the Eiffel tower as Chat Noir but got all sweaty upon entering a completely safe park attraction.

“Uh, actually, I want to shower with you- I mean, I need a shower, too! Not with you, obviously!” Marinette gestured wildly. “I'll just go.”

She quickly vanished upstairs, and Adrien went to his own room to get some clothes set out.

On his way to the stairs, he heard his father say to Nathalie, “they do have respective bathrooms, don't they?”

“Mhm.”

-

Adrien heard laughter coming from the front garden. He found Marinette and his adults in a cozy sitting area that had been overgrown with vines coming from the stone wall that bounded their property.

He walked the terrace and stone path that led across the vast garden – seriously, everything in the countryside was over-dimensioned for a city kid – to join the apparent delight conversation.

“I promise, the ESC designers will never understand that just because it glitters doesn't make it a nice outfit,” Marinette waved.

“You might say the same about Audrey Bourgeois,” Gabriel half-smiled – which was much emotion for him.

“Ugh,” she groaned theatrically.

“Hey.”

“Ah, Adrien! Glitter or no glitter?”

Unsure how to answer Marinette's question, he had a fifty-fifty chance, “no glitter?”

“See, even Adrien agrees.”

And just like that, he was out of the discussion again. He looked over to Nathalie, who appeared to have been left out as well, but from her disinterested expression, he figured she had never been part of it.

“So what's this about?”

“Your father complimented my dress.” Adrien noticed it was a different one, “and I mentioned I had almost made it a jumpsuit when your dad said they were so 2016. So we started talking about which trends are super overused.”

“Okay, got it. What do we think about feathers then?” As someone allergic to them, he could tell they were definitely used too much.

“We like feathers, don't we?”

“They do make a decent accessory to an outfit,” Gabriel agreed. “However, if used too much, they can overshadow quickly.”

Yeah, he should've guessed so after Marinette had won the fashion contest with a hat full of feathers.

“Like boas or fur collars,” Marinette added. “They can ruin a whole outfit.”

“I like fur collars.” For the first time, Nathalie contributed to the discussion.

“Really? I've never seen you wear one.” Adrien didn't think her the type for fur.

“Your father took it from me.”

“I told you, you would get it back. But not yet.” There was a certain snap in his tone, and maybe it was better not to know what this was about. His father - and to extension, Nathalie - were people of many secrets, metaphors, and unspoken words.

“Anywaaay,” Adrien switched, “I'm hungry. Are you hungry?”

“Haven't you just eaten in the amusement park?”

“Nathalie, I'm sixteen. I could eat all the time,” he pointed out the obvious. “Besides, that was hours ago.”

“Oh, to have your metabolism. Well, we haven't had lunch, so I guess we could go for an early dinner? Gabriel?” She looked over, and he nodded. “What about you, Marinette? You're our guest, after all.”

“Uh, yeah, I- that would be great.”

“Very well.” Nathalie pulled her phone out and started typing. “Any preferences?”

“Chinese, always.” Lately, Adrien had been craving rice in every form. Little to Plagg's delight because they never came with cheese.

“I was thinking more of a restaurant.”

“Or we could cook? The kitchen looks very nice.” Nathalie and the Agreste boys stared at Marinette, baffled. “Or we could get takeout.”

“Look, Gabriel.” Nathalie leaned over. “This one seems nice.”

“Don't worry,” Adrien whispered to Marinette. “None of them knows how to cook. Me neither.”

“I sometimes forget you're rich as hell.”

Adrien smiled and took in the scene. With them all in vacation clothes, sitting under robes and flowers, the only sounds coming from birds and occasional cars, it was easy to forget everyday life. School pressure, superhero activities, and celebrity trouble.

“What do you think of this?” Nathalie handed Adrien the phone.

Glancing at Marinette, who gave an uncertain nod, he agreed. “Yeah, sure.”

“According to this site, the season special...” One might suppose Adrien's taste would be spoiled after always having the luxury of a personal chef, but he literally couldn't care less. Food was food. He just detested cheese as of late. “...it's a 20-minute-walk through town.”

“Can't we take the bikes?”

“It would be rude to dine in motorcycle gear, Adrien.” His father frowned, but Adrien thought he might just not want to spend any more time on a bike than necessary.

“I'll get my purse. Will leave in 10, alright?”

Fifteen minutes later, they were strolling through something that didn't deserve the word town – at least not in the eyes of a city kid. From time to time, Marinette stumbled on the uneven sidewalk, so Adrien – ever the gentleman – offered her his arm for support.

They turned around to see the adults a few meters behind them, Nathalie beaming up to Gabriel as he spoke.

“You know,” Marinette said to Adrien, “I can't figure them out. Are they dating or not?”

“I guess so? I've never really asked them. I mean, I told my father that I'd be fine if they got together, but they never confirmed anything.”

“Sounds like a mess.”

“Yeah, I think he's still not over my mother's death, even though it's been like three years.”

“People can have a hard time moving on,” she agreed and turned around one more. Adrien saw that his father had now embraced Nathalie, who smiled when she noticed the teens. “Still, I think she's good for him.”

“Me too.”

-

“Have you already decided what to eat, Adrien?” Nathalie asked once the waitress had brought their appetizers.

Anything big.

“How are the appetizers 15 €?” Marinette asked Adrien out of earshot. “I really don't know what to get. Most of the stuff I've never even heard before."

Adrien usually didn't look at prices. Growing up with infinite money, he wondered if a soup usually cost 20 €. Probably not. “So, what do you eat in the normal world?”

“Five bucks takeout. Six if I want extra sauce,” she giggled.

Adrien laughed quietly, she was a nice contrast to this fancy setting. “I usually get the daily special or the second thing on the vegetarian menu.”

“For someone so perfect, that's so chaotic. Ah- not that you're perfect, but you're- you know.” He's sure she wanted to say snobby.

“It's fine. So apparently, I'm getting...,” he searched the menu. “chanterelle, porcini, and oyster mushrooms with parmesan. Sounds nice?”

“Hm, I don't like porcini much.”

But he had an idea, “what if you get the third one, and we'll share?”

“Sounds stupid, but yeah, I'm in.”

“Great!” He could always count on Marinette to go with his weirdness. They made a good team. Speaking of which, there was something Adrien had to ask his father, but he needed to be in a good mood. And so he started his plan with, “Oh look, dad, they have your favorite wine.”

“Indeed,” Gabriel mused, “would you like a glass, too, Adrien?”

Despite being 16, he wasn't yet used to being allowed things. With his politest voice, he nodded, “Yes, please.”

“What about you, Marinette? Provided that your parents have no problem, of course.”

“A small one would be nice.”

When the waiter arrived, they ordered three glasses of fancy wine and grape juice for Nathalie.

Marinette seemed to question what went between the Agrestes without saying. She leaned to Adrien, “why doesn't Nathalie drink?”

“Marinette, it is rude to whisper during dinner,” Gabriel went in, and it wasn't sure if this was reprimanding or funny.

“E- excuse me, I was just wondering why Nathalie didn't order a glass of wine- not that it's my business- sorry!” She stammered upon being caught.

“Nathalie's illness might worsen from alcohol, and we won't like to take that risk.”

“Oh, sorry to hear that.”

“It's fine,” Nathalie calmed, “I'm alright for now.”

Since neither adult was willing to discuss it further, her illness continued to remain a mystery to Adrien. He was just glad, she was somehow recovering, and his father took great care of her. Unless he was being, well, himself.

After their meals had been served, they mostly ate in silence, Marinette and Adrien sharing their platters, and Nathalie sneaking from Gabriel's salad until he sighed and passed it to her. Every time nobody looked, Adrien stole pieces from the cheese platter and put them into his shirt, where Plagg eagerly awaited them.

When Gabriel was on his second drink, Adrien found the courage to propose his plan, “dad, can I ask you something.”

“Of course,” he perked up from the glass.

“Well, Marinette and I talked, and we had an idea. After high school next year, we want to take a few months off to travel around France. I'll get a bigger bike, and Marinette will get one of her own. We're still gonna study – obviously – but I want to see something! This vacation is so cool, and I can't wait to see more of this country. And before you say anything, I'll be 18 by then, so you can't technically stop me.”

“You can't be serious, Adrien. What do you think-”

“Gabriel-” Nathalie was quick to put her hand onto his clenched fist, and his anger immediately fled.

“I suppose I can't keep you from that,” he sighed.

“For what it's worth, I think you will have a great time and lots of stories to tell your friends once you're back.” Surely, Nathalie encouraged him, she used to be an explorer who traveled the world. He could count on her to want him to have the same experience.

“Thank you.” Adrien was relieved. That had gone better than expected.

“So, do you and Marinette already have bikes in mind?”

“Oh, Nathalie, I'm so glad you asked.” Pulling his phone out, he rambled about his top 5 motorcycles, gear, and accessories. “... and maybe something like this for Marinette, because she's so short – ouch, you're 16, you're not going to grow anymore...”

And like that, they discussed bikes, logistics, locations, everything they didn't need for another year, but Adrien couldn't be stopped daydreaming about his future which – he hadn't thought possible after his mom's death – could only be amazing.

Because in it were the three people dearest to him.