Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Ladybug and Chat Noir sat atop the louver watching as down below Sabrina got carted into an ambulance for the fifth time this week. Not sparing a glance at Sabrina, Chloe stomped off to her car.

“Ridiculous, utterly ridiculous” Chloe slammed the door before the car pulled away.

“What is going on Chat, what does Hawkmoth have against her? She's not even that useful of an Akuma.”Ladybug says, putting her face in her hands.

“At this rate she's gonna give mister pigeon a run for his money.” he smirked though it didn’t come close to his eyes.

“This is serious chat if she’s getting akumatized this much than this could point to sever mental health problems” she sighed

“Come on my Lady, it may not be that bad, I mean everyone around Chloe gets akumatized. Of course the people closest to her would be hit with the brunt of it.”

“Do you really believe that?”

He thought for a second. “No but someones gotta play devil advocate. We can’t jump to conclusions.”

“I get it but there's no other explanation. Why would it only be Sabrina and no one else? What about her butler or dad? Or that adrien kid?”

He blinked for a second before responding.”I mean with her dad you know why.”

“I know he's never around” she huffed. After a few moments she continued. “Hey, do you mind doing me a favor?”

“Anything for you my Lady” he said sincerely.

Look I know I said we can’t know each other's identities but let's be honest I already know you go to Francis Dupont because you already recognized several students there and before you deny it you’re really bad at hiding it so don’t try.” she glanced at him as she caught her breath, and seeing how he didn’t freak out continued. “What I want you to do is keep an eye on her and see what you find out, I understand if you can’t but I’d  feel better if I had an extra pair of eyes.” finished with her request Ladybug glanced up at him.

To her surprise he didn’t look angry or worse yet overly excited but instead wore a gentle smile on his face. Putting a hand on her shoulder he said “If you think it’s important it’s important. I’m at your service my lady.”

“Thanks chat”

“What kinda partner would I be if I didn't help you when you need it?” he paused a smile blooming on his face. “ Besides, how could I pass up a chance to learn your identity?”

“Chat!” she slaps his arm before he jumps off giggling into the night. As she stares at his slowly retreating shape she just rolls her eyes at her buffoon's antics.

“Bug out!” She swings home.

                                                                                                                     -----------

Landing in her bed back home she releases her transformation.

“Tiki, do you have any idea what's going on?”

“What do you mean Marinette?” 

What is going on with Sabrina? She never acts like this.”

“What do you mean? She has perfectly good reasons to be mad at chloe. Chloe hurt her, why wouldn’t she act like anyone else Chloe hurt.”

Marinette rolled over and pressed her face into the pillow “you don’t get it Tiki. As long as I’ve known her she hasn’t had a malicious bone in her body.” She said before flipping over because it’s hard to talk through a pillow. “I mean I guess she’ll insult you but more often than not it will backfire on her or not make any sense. It's like being yapped at by a small dog. And that’s when she’s at her worst, when she’s not around Chloe she’s pretty nice to be around. She even started handing out weird apology gifts.” Marinette sighed, finishing her rant “Besides, it's not like she seemed to mind it before, something had to have changed.”

“Is there any chance she could’ve just reached her limit”

“I don’t know tiki.” She sighed “It’s weird to imagine her angry at anyone, even chloe. I don’t know what's wrong. She never seemed to mind.” rolling over onto her side. What is happening to my class? I just want to protect them and I’ve failed.

Tiki sighed “Marenette, does the rock mind being in the river? Things change what could be fine one day could be disastrous the next. Things change,” she smiled “I should know I’m older than time.”

Marinette looked up mildly shocked

“Get it, because fluff the personification of time is my little sister?” seeing how marinette was still somewhat stunned Tiki just waved her arms “the point is that, in my lifetime I’ve seen mountains, tall and proud, seemingly unconcerned by the hateful winds. But a few million years later all that exists where it once stood is a sinkhole. Is it not possible that no matter how kind and loyal Sabrina once was it may have changed to anger or hatred for her. Even just subconsciously.”

Maranette gaped at that. “I admit that makes sense.” she stares at the ground for a few moments ``Still I wish I could’ve done something to prevent this. I guess I just have to hope there still is something I can do. Before it gets worse.

Chapter Text

Sabrina trudged after Chloe carrying a huge stack of clothes and designer bags. Sabrina wobbled a bit, nearly falling over before righting herself.

“Watch it Sabrina! If any of those fall you're going to have to pay for them to get cleaned!”

“Do I have to carry all of these Chloe? I’m still really tired from yesterday.” Sabrina said still wobbling

“Nonsense! You tried to kill me three times this week. You owe me this!”

“B-but I was akumatized! I didn’t mean to.”

“Yeah but if you weren't such a freak and could keep your emotions under control I wouldn’t have to deal with this. Honestly sometimes I wonder why I keep you around.” 

At those words the fight died in Sabrina “Yes Chloe”

They didn’t talk till they reached the school and to be honest Sabrina was glad because she wasn’t sure she could’ve talked even if she wanted two. She wasn’t lying earlier when she said she was tired. Her feet felt like lead and every action took the mental equivalent of bench pressing 70 tons. The Doctors said that repeat Akumitization could lead to extreme over exhaustion but Sabrina insisted on going to school. Just like the lapdog I am she thought bitterly

When they got to school Chloe wasn’t in the mood to bully anyone so they headed straight for class. They were a good thirty minutes earlier than they usually were. Once they got into the classroom Chloe got up to go to the bathroom ordering Sabrina to stack up the new things she purchased so she could show off to the class later

When Sabrina was half way done with stacking the clothes something sharp hit her head. She looked over to the desk where it landed. A paper airplane? She thought. She opened it.

Agent Rain

You got the goods? 

She looked over and saw Kim lurking in the doorway, or Agent Cupid I should say. She smiled reaching to her backpack for the package and of course some sun glasses he knows wearing a trench coat doesn’t work right?  He’s the tallest guy in school!

She followed Kim out into the hall wearing her sunglasses and posted up against a wall. After looking around to make sure the coast is clear she handed him the package.

Kim smiled and tried to do his most serious voice “thank you the gaymer shall appreciate this.”

Dropping character and feeling her nerves return she asked “U-um does this settle our debt”

“Oh uh yeah” Kim said, seeming surprised. He dug around in his coat taking out some crumpled euros “ Will this cover the cost.”

Sabrina raises an eyebrow “kim you do realize this a favor for you right why would you pay me?”

He raises an eyebrow of his own “But Max told me that getting the “Star Wars Christmas special” was hard to get and cost money. Don’t you wanna make at least some of that back?” he looked curiously at her.

Doing her best not to meet his eyes she said “See it as an apology gift okay?” Taking a deep breath “ I hurt you, I know that. Chloe constantly bullies you and I know that there were a thousand times I could have stood up to her and I didn’t because I'm a coward. So if there’s any way I can reduce the pain you're in I'll take it.” tears were rolling down her face now. She felt large arms envelope

“It’s fine Sabrina I got over Chloe a long time ago she doesn’t scare me.” he said softly

She leaned into him but kept her arms around herself.

“ Besides I just wanted to get a present for my boyfriend but didn’t know how. I wasn’t in any pain” he said letting go, smiling and turning to leave.

“And of course i won’t tell chloe you’re gay!” she added quickly.

“Of course you won’t, you're gayer than me! Seya agent Rain” he said ruffling her hair before sprinting into class 

She blinked for a second, an almost alien warmth filling her heart before her thoughts caught up to.

“Wait what does that mean! why would you think that!” she called after him, not missing the well hidden panic in her own voice. Hearing him giggle from inside. She sat in the silence for a little bit, the warmth in her chest not going away despite how he had come so close to one of her greatest secrets. A slight smile came to her face. Then she heard Chloe stomping down the hall and quickly dried her face.

“ SABRINA,, YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE WHAT LITTLE MISS DUPAN-CHANG SA-” she blinked at her “WTF why are you wearing shades.”

“Uhhhh-”

Chapter Text

Sabrina had a pretty normal day after that. Mis Bustier gave a short lecture on poetry after which she gave the rest of the class time to work. Chloe spent most of that time badgering the other classmates while Sabrina did both of their work. Sabrina did her best to tune out the rest of the class, not that she was very good at it.  Besides the obvious fact that Chloe in her ridiculously loud self was arguing with the entire class only a foot away, she never really did well with tuning things out. Books always make it sound so easy like changing the channel on the radio but for Sabrina it was more like fighting back the tide. More than once throughout the day she had to slam her hands over her ears to block out the constant noise or hold back a grimince or whimper when Chloe glared at her.

Besides that it was a pretty pleasant day! She they finished the homework early meaning that since it was friday she had no homework over the weekend! In addition to that because Sabrina was such a baby (really because Chloe didn’t want to) they weren’t going to the mall today. Meaning Sabrina got an evening off. Should Sabrina be worried that the idea of spending a day without her friend was desirable to her. Yes. Was she going to ignore that in favor of the beautiful silence of the walk home. Also yes.

Now that she had time, today had been weird. Well weirder than usual. People were always weird after she did a favor for them. Kim was by far not the first person she had tried to apologize to in that manner. That honor went to Juleka for reasons she refused to let herself think about-

- Juleka’s sobs echoed through the room

- Chloe should we really be doing this?

-Shut up and get it over with!

She shakes her head to clear her mind of the offending thought. Regardless, Kim is the one who uses them the most often. As far as she could tell the reason was pretty simple. Whenever he needed a smart person and Max wasn’t available he’d call her. Sort of like a substitute nerd.. Over time they’ve developed a sort of strange relationship. Not friendship per say, Sabrina only had one person who would tolerate her and that was Chloe. But while he was suspicious at first he had grown to like her and almost treated her like a friend. I mean he was probably just trying to butter her up so she’d do more for him but still it didn’t stop her from daydreaming what it’d be like to be his best friend.

He was staring at her all day and kept trying to meet her eyes but she  couldn’t read his expression. Angry? Mad? Disappointed? Scared? Happy? She didn’t know! But what was even stranger was  who else was looking. It was one thing when her acquaintances? Debtors? Quasi-friends? Looked at her like that but it was different when other people did it. Marienette and Adrein were staring at her. I mean if it was just Adrien it would be one thing. He probably just wanted something for Chloe and she’d have to meet with him to make it fit with his schedule. (even if he was whispering nonstop with nino during class.) Marinette was another thing however. Why would I look at her, she hated Chloe. Sabrina stole her diary and did so many horrible things at Chloe’s behest why would she look at her. And as the day went on it only got weirder. Maranette seemed to follow her around. Lucky Maranette stopped once school  ended seeing how their homes are in opposite directions but still, it was super creepy.

A thought occurred to her and stood for several seconds like a deer in the headlights.

“Does Marinette have a crush on me!!!!!!!” she thought

Sabrina pointedly ignored the fluttering in her cest and continued walking, faster this time. “ Your fine Sabrina your not gay, most straight girls have a crush on her” she thought trying to mentaly reassure herself “your most---prob--- maybe straight.” 

Chapter Text

Sabrina sat on her bed reading a book. She got home a few hours ago and, having fully descended into gay panic, decided the best thing to do was to shove those thoughts to the back of mind and read a book. Having just finished she closed the book with a contented sigh. She smiled, it had been a long time since she had any free time and she had been meaning to scratch this off the list. She sat in silence for a moment.

What do I do now? She thought. It was strange, it wasn't like she was with Chloe all the time. Four days out of seven she would sleep at home and would have to wait till morning to see her. But this was different, she usually had homework to do (hers or Chloe’s), subjects to study, apology letters to send, tasks to complete. Now That Sabrina thought about it, this was the first time in years she actually had to choose what she wanted to do. She sat there wringing her hands. “ I mean I could watch a movie but what movies do I like? It’s not like I have many people to ask for references.” She thought “I mean I could ask Chloe but I don’t want to talk to her at the moment.

--Honestly i wonder why i keep you around.

“Yeah I definitely don’t want to do that .” she grimaced. Usually when she had nothing to do she would read her books. The book she just finished was her favorite. Whenever she felt sad she would read it. It always made her so happy because it starred a main character like her. Gerdy (the protagonist) started life as a prince but never felt content with her life and so went wandering in the woods. There she met a witch who cursed her to become a girl. However unlike the witch intended she was overjoyed and traveled the world becoming a world famous duelist. Sabrina's eyes were half lidded as she thought about it and a smile spread across her lips. Another reason Sabrina loved the books is that, while it wasn’t canon much to her dismay, the main character is heavily coded autistic and in the later books learns to stand up for herself and that she doesn’t have to change herself to fit others expectations---

“----Yeah but if you weren't such a freak and could keep your emotions under control I wouldn’t have to deal with this. Honestly sometimes I wonder why I keep you around.”

Sabrina sat for a few moments after that though. Slowly she brought her knees to her chest. Laying her head on her knees she sat there lost in thought. Sabrina sat there for a long time. “Fuck my life. I fought my whole life, just wanting to have anything! And the best I have is Chloe!!!! She barely tolerates and abuses me all the time and yet praises the ground she walks on! If I didn’t have her I’d have nothing! I am so god damn pathetic.” she thought bitterly.

Sabrana managed to chance a look at the clock. Nearly 30 minutes had passed. “ I need to do something- anything- this can't be healthy.” she thought desperately “I know! the series may have ended but the have to be good fanfiction if I can just find it I can--”

“I don’t wanna be alone.”

The thought hit her like a shot to heart. “I’m going to reach for my phone and I’m going to be fine, I’m going to be fine.” She took a deep breath.

“On the count of three I’m going to reach for my phone. 1. 2. 3.”   her arm flexed but didn’t move. 

“Now.” she said out loud this time. “NOW. Now now now!” 

Eventually her arm slowly but surely moved to her back pocket, pulled out her phone and opened up her contacts.

If I’m lucky somebody has something for me to do”

Sabrina checked her messages but they were empty. “Fuck” She moved on to her calender. “ Yes, jack pott” Mylene was testifying for an environmental cause in two hours at city hall! She had to have something for Sabrina to do! She sent her a text.

Sabrina: Hey mylene, saw that you were doing something and thought you might need some help. Feel free to trade in those favors if you need anything!

Then before she could think better of it she added:

Sabrina: But only if you want to! No pressure!

A few moments went by and there was no response. Sabrina got up and started pacing around the room, her prior lethargy forgotten. I shouldn’t have bothered her, what if she’s busy? She’ll get mad at me! What if she doesn’t want to be my quisi-friend anymore? What if----

The Phone pings.

She pounces on the phone and looks at the message.

Mylene: oh! Perfect timing. Can you do a once over on my speech? I think it’s good I just wanted to make sure.

Another message popped up.

Mylene: By the way it would cool if you could come watch. It would really help with my anxiety.

Sabrina thought about this a moment before replying

Sabrina: Sure! Just send me a copy and I’ll do it on the bus.

Sabrina packed up and headed out glad to have something to do. As she started hiking to the bus stop, she saw an explosion of magic ladybugs from the edge of town. They blanketed the sky in glowing red before vanishing as quickly as they came. Sabrina removed her glasses, smiling a little as she wiped the remaining tears from her eyes. She had been having a rough couple weeks. “ Small miracles.”

-------

Sabrina met up with Ivan and Mylene in front of city hall.

“Hey Sabrina, glad you could make it!” Ivan called, waving a large hand. Mylene smiled beside him.

“Hey guys, did you see the suggestions I made?” Sabrina said, waving awkwardly.

“Yeah, thanks again. You really helped bring the speech together.” Mylene said, stepping forward.

Oh it’s nothing, you don’t have to thank me. It was a favor for you anyway.”

Mylene takes a moment to respond. “Well regardless, you did a great job and I’m really glad you decided to join us.”

Sabrina sat there for a moment not really sure how she was expected to respond to that. Unprompted, she took a note card out of her pocket and handed it to Mylene. “ Um by the way, I took the liberty of listing common arguments against your cause and rebuttals to use against them. In addition, I made sure to put the url below each quote.” Sabrina not looking either one in the eye while playing with her hair. 

Ivan peeked over mylene's shoulders “Did you write all three Urls by hand?” he said shooting her a quizzical look

“Oh that?” she shrugged.’ It's fine, I’ve done double the homework for most of my life, you learn to work fast.” a slight chuckle to her voice.

The pair look at each other before Mylene speaks up “Sabrina, we’ve been meaning to ask, are you okay. You’ve been akumatized almost every day this week and today you looked really jumpy.”

“You already asked me this Wednesday. I’m fine. If I wasn't, do you really think you’d see me?” she forced a laugh.

“It’s really unsettling that’s your metric.” Mylene said, giving Ivan a look.

“I don’t really wanna talk about it if that's fine.” Sabrina said more sternly. “Besides you don’t have time as you have to go talk in an hour. You should probably practice.” her voice got softer at the end.

“Fine, but you tell us if you need anything,okay? Your mental health is important alright?” Mylene said before looking at Ivan. “You two fine keeping each other company while I’m busy?”

Sabrina and Ivan nodded. Satisfied with their responses Mylene marched off to find somewhere to practice. Once Mylene had left their sights Ivan motioned for Sabrina to follow him. Ivan led them into the lobby and over to a bench. They sat there in silence for a long while.

As the minutes wore on Sabrina only became more panicked. Why did I do that! Why did I do that! I sounded like such a bitch!” Sabrina began bouncing her leg. “Chloe was right, no one wants to be my friend! I should be grateful to chloe. She puts up with me when no one else will! And if she hurts me I deserve it for being so broken.” As her emotions rose she started to rock violently back and forth still tapping her foot. “I don’t care if she just uses me, at least I’m not alone! I just want people to stop yelling at me! I just want people to stop yelling at me! I just want-

She jumped as a hand touched hers “Sabrina are you okay!” said Ivan

“Fine, just bored, why do you ask!” she lied despite the obvious tears and her utter failure to mask. “Hey do you need anything! Want to trade in one of those favors? Do you want coffee? I can get you coffee!” she nearly ran off before he grabbed her hand.

It’s okay.” Ivan said in a soothing voice. “I don’t know what you are going through, and we don’t have to talk about it, but if you want I can stay with you till you calm down. We can, like, chat and stuff.” giving a smile letting go of her arm.

Sabrina reached up and wiped the tears from her eyes before nodding. “I would like that.” she responded barely above a whisper. She sat down next to him bringing her knees to her chest.

So what's your favorite type of music? I like Hard rock and heavy metal because it allows me to get out emotions I normally don’t get to express.” he said intentionally keeping his voice low and calming. He went on to list all of his favorite bands and why he liked them including a surprising amount of German and Swedish bands. He continued on for a few minutes only stopping to shoo away people who were staring at Sabrina.

Ivan was an oddity to Sabrina. It had been two months since she began her apology scene. Two months after the Juleka incident (Sabrina shuddered at that thought). Her plan was simple she would send out letters to all the people she had wronged detailing how sorry she was along with a group of coupons they could exchange to get Sabrina to do any task for them. The amount of course varied on how much pain Sabrina felt she caused them. While some (like Nathaniel and Rose) were opposed to it by now most people had used at least one if not more. There however three holdouts that perplexed her. Ivan, Juleka, and Marinette. The weird part wasn’t that they didn’t use them, she could understand that, but was how they were still nice to her regardless of that. It didn’t make any sense to her. They would say that it was because they didn’t feel comfortable with it but that didn’t make sense. They had to have an ulterior motive didn’t they. The plan made sense to her. She made them mad so she had to do things to get back in their good graces. Simple. That's how it always worked for Sabrina. She couldn’t understand why they had a problem with it.

“That's me, but what about you? What kinda Music do you like?” he said in that same soothing voice.

As she gathered the strength to make her mouth move she pretended to think. Finally she said “Well, I don’t usually get to choose my music, but when I do…” she paused. “...I prefer rock and punk. particularly jagged Stone.” she said the last part quietly. 

Even to Sabrina's very untrained eyes he looked surprised.

“Is it because I'm a girl?” she said, sending him a glare.

“Oh of course not!” he quickly corrected. “It's just that you look like a nerd and I wasn’t expecting it!”

She stopped for a second “Oh…I misinterpreted that.” she blushed. After a few moments she continued. “I like rock because it gives me a sense of freedom… and power, I don’t get to feel in my normal life.”

He nodded sagely at that.

“People don’t really respect me. They treat me more like an object than a person. Worse- a pet.” she sniffed “so seeing some one tell the world to fuck off and not be punished for it is… I don’t know nice.” she finished shrugging

“I understand,” he nodded, putting a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“Thanks” she smiled. “Sorry I've been so emotional this week.’

No problem, got to be there for my rock buddies right?” holding out his hand for a fist bump. She shyly taps it

“So what's your favorite song?” They continue on like this for some time. He would ask a question and she’d answer before giving him one in return. While Sabrina would never admit it, this was one of the greatest days of her life! Very few people, if ever, asked for her opinion. And on the same day she got to hang out with Kim! This is awesome. Sure she had two breakdowns in  a single day, but if Sabrina got this she was more than willing to pay that cost.

“Your girlfriend is scary.” she said when the conversation reached a lul.

“Oh Mylene? Is that why you uh…” Ivan asked unsure how to finish.

“Yeah sorry, I was afraid she was mad at me and kinda freaked out…” she glanced away.

He scoots closer and says “I don’t think she was really mad, she’s just worried about you.” he thinks for a second before adding. “You know I do have one favor you can do for me.”

She looks at him.

“We’re protesting against a bill that would prevent teachers from mentioning lgbtq topics. It would be cool if you join us.” he said shyly rubbing the back of his neck.

Sabrina froze for a moment. Could he actually be supportive? She knew that her class was supportive of their gay members but they never really talked about LGBT issues in class (at least not with chloe or her around). Before her she could agree a thought hit her. “Does the mayor support the bill?” she asked with a tint of fear to her voice

“Yeah, why…” he furrowed his eyebrows before his eyes went wide.

She sighed “Sorry, I can't come. Chloe would be really angry at me and I don't want to upset her, sorry.” she paused for a moment. “I can look up blackmail on the mayor though! I bet I can dig up something real juicy. Do you want to hear about his ex-wife?”

He sat there for a second “Uh no thanks I’m good, but thanks uh for the offer.” he said looking embarrassed. “To be honest I just wanted to hang out with you. If you have any free time it would be cool if you hung out with the rest of the class?” he offered.

“I would love that!” she stops “but it’s not like I really have much free time so maybe don’t count on it.”

“Okay, when will you have free time?” 

She shrugged “Don’t know this is the first time in a while I’ve had any. It’s kinda strange to be honest.”

“Well what are you doing tomorrow?” he asks.

“Not sure but Chloe probably will need me all day.” she sighed “she always does.”

“Sabrina, I know you may not want to answer this, and that's totally alright. But do you like hanging out with Chloe?”

“It’s fine ,It’s what best friends do afterall, right?” she said not really believing what she was saying.

“When does Chloe usually get up.”

“Well it’s the weekend so probably eleven.”

“Okay then get to bed early because we're having a party at nine.” he said taking out his phone and shooting off some rapid fire texts.

“Why is it someone's birthday?” 

“No, it's just you rarely get to hang out with us and it would be nice to see you more often.”

“Why are you being so nice to me?”

“Because life has been hard for you these last two weeks. And if Chloe won’t be kind to you, then me and Mylene will.” he nodded resolutely. “So what do you say, want to join us tomorrow?”

Sabrina thought for a second. I really want to, but what if Chloe finds out? She’s still really mad at me! Besides, they probably just want something from me. But then something occurred to her. But Chloe wants stuff from me all the time and she’s never nice. Besides, she won’t even be awake. Why don’t I do one thing for myself? Just this once?

“Yes, absolutely.”

Chapter Text

don't worry I'm not dead. schools just been kicking my but fret not for I shall deliver you a chaper with in the coming week.(knock on wood)

Chapter Text

The rest of the event passed uneventfully. After a little more chatting they got to see Mylene go up and speak before the Council of Paris and just as they predicted, she did amazing. Both the crowd and the Council seemed to be largely in favor of what she said. (though with the voting history of some of them, they may still vote against us. Sabrina decided to wait til later to bring this up so as not to spoil the mood.)

After congratulating mylene on a job well done Sabrina decided to go home. As she was leaving she heard Ivan telling Mylene about the get together(party? hangout?) and rushed away so she didn’t hear her answer. She knew she probably say yes but… Sabrina couldn’t really handle rejection right now.

*****

The next day Sabrina stood at the entrance to the park clutching the straps on her backpack. Just a little bit away the rest of the class was having a picnic. They looked so happy and Sabrina was trying to find a way to approach them without ruining the mood. Sabrina didn’t want to be a hastel. Maybe it would be better if she left now…

“Hey Sabrina!”

She looked up and saw Rose waving frantically at her with Julaka by her side.

“Um hi” she says as they walk over to her.

“You here for the picnic?’ Juleka asks, smiling.

Oh! um, maybe if I’m not to much of a bother, I wouldn’t want t---”

“Come on.” Rose drags her toward the group.

*****

The picnic was going well so far and everyone was really nice to Sabrina. Though some were awkward when she first came in no one seemed bothered by her presence, and even talked to her a little bit.  Not to mention the great food that Marinette brought. No wonder everyone liked being her friend, her food was amazing!

Sabrina sat on the picnic blanket and listened to the people surrounding her, eating a macaron. Nino and Ivan were talking about music, Alya was talking with Nathaniel about adding art to the lady blog, and Kim was climbing a tree with Alix. Sabrina was glad she got to hang out with so many interesting people.

“Do you wanna go talk to them?”

Sabrina looked over at Rose. “What?”

“Do you want to go talk to them?” she said simply “you don’t have to if you don’t wan’t, just wanted to make sure you weren’t left out.” she said with no insistence in her voice, just quit curiosity.

“It’s fine, all the people I want to talk to are busy anyway. I don’t want to interrupt.”

“Well If that’s what's stopping you, I can go with you so you don’t feel guilty.”

“I mean as long as it isn’t an inconvenience, I wouldn’t want to bother you.” Sabrina says looking away shyly

Rose stands up “who do you want to start with?”

“Oh well it will be great to talk to Ivan, but are you sure they won’t mind? I don't want to be annoying.”

“Nonsense, Ivan was the one to invite you.”

“And if anyone's mean to you I’ll kick ‘em in the balls.” said Juleka.

Sabrina jumped “Where’d you come from.”

“Sorry, I just heard you talking and wanted to help.” she smiles “besides can let my fellow shy person get hurt now can I.” she awkwardly holds out her fist.

Sabrina rolls her eyes and bumped her fist. She knew how much her friend(acquaintance? Nice pirate?) struggled with social situations and empathized with that.

Come on wallflowers, let's get going!” Rose herded them toward Ivan.

Ivan was arguing with nino about what was the best jagged stone album.

“Dude, I have to go with the classics. His third album is some of his best work.”

“That's fair, but I prefer his newest album.”

“Oh isn’t that the one the mari did the artwork for? The cover alone put it in my top five.” Nino said.

“Oh hey guys, I was just showing Sabrina around, mind if we join you.” Rose buts in.

“Oh of course dudettes.” he says, turning towards them. “Say can you settle this for us, what’s the best Jagged Stone album?”

“Well I personally really like his “Rocking Summer Love” album.’ Rose smiles and nuzzles up to Juleka.  “If only because It has one of the first songs we danced to.”

Juleka hugs her before giving Ivan a pointed look and gesturing her head toward Sabrina.

“Oh, uh, Sabrina, what's your favorite album?!” he said a little too loud.

Oh, um, I really know much about albums because I usually listen to the radio, but, uh, his song rocking blue rain is pretty cool!” she said, messing with her hands.

“Yeah, I like that one too! What kind of music do you like.” said Nino, seeming to pick up on why Sabrina was here.

The conversation went smoothly from there, and Sabrina had a blast! Despite the fact that Chloe was constantly hanging off his best friend Nino and her never really hung out. They’ve said hi to each other before and he did use a few of the favors she owed him, but other than that they barely spoke.

Sabrina was amazed at how well they got along. They read a lot of the same books(he seemed to have a real penchant for mystery novels), listened to similar music(mostly introduced to them by Ivan and the rest of Kitty Section) and beyond that he just was a really nice guy. No wonder Adrian kept him around. He was smart, funny, cool and just seemed to go out of his way to help people.

She felt a pang in her gut. I wish I could be that good of a friend. Maybe Chloe would like me more if I was more like him.

Eventually Rose took Sabrina to go talk to other people. As they wove through the crowd Sabrina felt like she was winding her way through a royal court. Everything had a sort of dreamlike feel to it like if at any moment  she’d wake and it all be gone. As they walked between Nino, Alya, and Kim's, groups Rose felt almost like her own personal liaison or, better yet, a Herald. Sabrina usually would feel guilty about people doing things for her but It was so fun being part of a group (people were actually listening to what she had to say) she ignored that feeling for now. Every time they would join a new group, Rose would always go ahead and greet them and work Sabrina into the conversation. Doing her best to make her feel welcome.

In contrast Juleka felt more like her own personal bodyguard. She rarely joined any of the conversations they got into and sometimes seemed to fade into the background. But despite this she was always there to offer a comforting smile or hold her girlfriend's hand. 

Sabrina never understood why Juleka was so nice to her. As much as they’ve hung out and Juleka straight up telling her she forgave her, Sabrina couldn’t believe that. This had to be a prank, a trick. Maybe Juleka thought she was sincere but she had to be wrong. She had to be lying to herself. There is no way anyone could like Sabrina after what she did, what she was like.

--Chloe, are you sure about this?! This seems really mean, like more than usual.” Sabrina said as they marched down the hallway--

Sabrina shakes her head. It doesn't matter even if she doubts why Juleka would be friends with her, all that matters is that no matter what Chloe says ,even if it just for two hours, she won’t have to be alone and that's all that matters.

******

Adrien loved get togethers with his friends. It was one of the few times he felt like he wasn’t held to an impossible standard. Not that he got to go to them that often. Adrein often felt guilty that his friends had to plan so much of their lives around his schedule. Everything from parties, picnics, to just simple going to someone's house had to be planned at least a week in advance. Which was why he was surprised when Ivan texted him yesterday telling him he was going to organize a picnic on saturday. Normally Adrein would apologize because he could come and tell them to have fun however, once he heard that Sabrina would be there… Well he did promise his lady afterall.

Getting a free day wasn’t easy and certainly energy intensive but he made it work. Technically he was supposed to be meeting with his piano instructor at least according to his father but what he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. With some significant donations to the gorillas action figure fund and a favor from Kagami to deal with the instructor, Adrien was home free(or park free at least).

Adrien was heading toward Nino and Ivan. He was feeding plagg some cheese when he noticed that they just finished talking to Sabrina. What a purfect opportunity for investigating he thought

Adrien was worried about Sabrina. While he didn’t know her as well as some of his other classmates he knew what it was like to feel alone and in pain, and wouldn’t wish that on anyone else.

Despite this, Ardien hadn’t made much progress on finding out the truth. Unlike Ladybug, he wasn’t very good at coming up with complex plans and had to resort to more blunt methods of finding out the truth. Namely he asked Natialie and Chloe. He didn’t bother asking Father(he doubted he knew much more than she was Chloe's friend, if that). Natalie told him it was none of her concern and to talk to the school if he felt strongly about it. While he appreciated her professional standards, it still pissed him off. She had to know! At least something, some clue to go on. Her whole thing was knowing everything so Father didn’t need to. Besides that Sabrina was basically Chloe's Natalie ment they had to have crossed paths at least a few times!

Then again at least he got an answer out of her, Chloe just said Sabrina was a crybaby and needed to get her emotions under control. He loved his childhood friend he really did but in the same way(he assumed) as an annoying cousin. He always wanted to believe that Chole could redeem herself but comments like this make him wonder why he even bothered.

He reached Ivan and Nino. “Hey guys, what were you talking to the girls about?” he asked summoning up as much charm as possible

“Oh Hey dude, we were just talking about music and stuff.” Nino said but the look on his face clearly indicated he knew Adrien wanted something.

“Yeah, nothing that important. Do you need anything Adrien?” Ivan asked not unkindly.

Adrien sighed he had hoped for some small talk before getting to the meat of it but here goes nothing. “How's Sabrina doing? I heard she’s been akumatized a lot lately, I just wanted to make sure she’s doing alright.”

“I mean she seems to be having fun. Maybe a little shy but overall fine.” Nino replied

“A leasts it’s giving her a break from her problems.” Ivan added

Adrein absorbed what they were saying. Okay this is objectively pretty good because it means she won’t be akumatized. But at the same time it isn’t getting us any closer to solving this issue.

“Um I may be overstepping my bounds, so stop me I am, and you don’t have to answer if you don’t want to, but do you know what's going on with her? It’s just I’m not sure how to help if I don’t know what's going on.” 

“Sorry dude, I wish I could help but I don’t really know her that well. This is one of the first times we hung out.” Nino said with a frown on his face “but if I had to hazard a guess I would have go with Chloe, and I know you have history but she’s bad news, dude.”

I sigh, don't let it be true. I turn toward Ivan “This might be a little bit of a ask, but you're the one who invited her, you have to know something. Please, if at all possible tell me what you know.”

Ivan frowns, shaking his head “ Sorry Adrien, but I don’t know and even what I do know she wouldn’t want me to tell you.”

Adrien meets nino’s eye before continuing. “Ivan, please Sabrina is clearly in pain and her akumatazions put people in danger, you go to help us.”

“I'm sorry Adrien, but she doesn’t trust anyone. Telling her secrets will only make it worse.” He says in a stern but sympathetic voice. He stops for a moment before continuing. “ But, um, I’ll tell you this though, she’s scared of people being disappointed in her. It might just be best to create a place where she feels safe and cared for, rather than trying to open her up. She’ll tell us in her own time.” he finishes with a smile

Adrien take a deep breath before sighing “ I understand, sorry for making you feel uncomfortable.”

“It’s fine,” Ivan said, less tense. “You just wanted to protect her.”

Nino looked between the two “So… with that out off the way can we go back to talking about music dudes?”

They laugh and talk about Jagged’s latest album

*****

After a little while the conversion broke up and Adrien headed off. Before promptly bumping into Nino.

“Where you off too”

“Oh uh, too you know uh..”

Nino held up a hand “It’s fine dude, as long as I get to tag along.”

“What?”

“Your going to keep investigating Sabrina aren’t you.”

“Wha- how’d you know?”

“You have that determined look in your eye when your about to do something stupid.”

“Wha- no I don’t!”

“And that attitude right there is why you need me to come along.”

Adren rolled his eyes and continued walking. Nino was so overprotective. But he was probably right. He was going to do something stupid but he had to. For his city, for his lady, and most importantly for his conscience. He couldn’t let this go if it was what he suspected it was. Especially if it was who he thought it was.

He like to think that it had to be a misunderstanding but if his experiences with father had taught him anything, even apathy can cause great sorrow. 

Chapter Text

Sabrina and the others kept walking for a little while longer. She was beginning to get a little overwhelmed, but fuck it was fun. This was the most people she’d talk to in years! 

  As they continued to talk to more people, Sabrina’s voice began to fail. Selective mutism sucks! she groaned inwardly. Nevertheless she still was enjoying listening to everyone talk even if she was looking for an excuse to leave.

As if reading her mind the two Sapphics lead her over by a tree.

“Hey, do you want to sit with us for a little bit.” Juleka asked, with what Sabrina thought could (maybe) be kindness.

“Sure, of course.”  she said sitting down. Thank you. she thought. It was probably a coincidence but Sabrina counted herself lucky all the same.

They sat there around the tree, the lovebirds working on their new song, while Sabrina listened to music and scrolled through reddit

She had just finished listening to the second song on her playlist, when she looked up to see Marinette hiding behind a tree. Badly. And watching her. Hrmmmmm.  

“Is Marinette watching me behind a tree?” Sabrina asked the couple, brushing her hair behind her ear.

Juleka glares at the tree in question. Marinette yelps and flings herself fully behind it. “Yeah that's Marinette alright.” Juleka rolls her eyes fondly “Don’t mind her, she’s weird like that.”

“Yeah but, um, do you know why she’s looking?” Sabrina said, trying to play it cool, ignoring her beating heart. 

“Oh do you want me to go as--” Juleka starts before Rose taps her on the shoulder. They share a look. “Oh!” Juleka exclaims.

“What?” Sabrina asked

“Well” she grinned as she scooted out of Marinette's line of sight and gestured for Sabrina to follow her. “I don’t know why she is interested in you but are you interested in her?”

“What!!” Sabrina blushes “Why would you think that.”

Rose just stared at her. Sabrina squirmed

“What rose is trying to say” Juleka buts in giving Rose a playful stare “is if you are gay, and it’s perfectly fine not knowing, we’re, ” she points at Rose and herself  “in no position to judge.”

“I…” Sabrina tries and comes up with a retort before sighing. “I don’t know. I mean… maybe. I already have enough to worry about without being gay on top of it.”

The couple scoot next to her “you don’t have to talk about if you don’t want to. Sorry for asking, if you want we can change the subject.” Rose said

“No it’s fine it’s just” she looks down adjusting her clothes suddenly very aware of her body. “I already check like fifty boxes on the weirdness list, I don’t want to add another.”

“I get that.” Juleka mumbled “figuring yourself out can be hard, what's important is you trust yourself and give yourself time to think”  she smiles “now if you excuse me I have something to take care of.” Juleka runs off and all Sabrina here’s is “Marinette what have I told you about eavesdropping!!!!” 

“Wait, Marinette could hear us!” Sabrina asked turning white

Rose rolls her eyes "I doubt it, we were talking pretty quietly and if Marinette plans something it’s doomed to fail.”

“Oh, that's good.” Sabrina said awkwardly. “Thanks for being so understanding, Chloe doesn’t really like to talk about emotions and stuff.”

“You're welcome, and while you don’t have to if you don’t want to, if you need to talk about anything we’re here for you.” she paused before adding “at least when Juleka gets back from lecturing Marinette. “

“I’ll think about that.” Sabrina said. And she meant it, she really did. Part of her really wanted to open up to her. To tell she was a transwoman, that she was autistic, how Chloe had gotten meaner over the last few years(or had she just now realized it) and she was scared to hang out with her. But she didn’t. She couldn’t. While they were accepting of this and it felt like a weight was lifted off her shoulders, every secret was a chance she could be rejected and be left alone. So she stayed silent.

After Juelka got back, the couple assured Sabrina they wouldn’t tell anyone. Sabrina hoped that was true.

The trio then spent the next ten minutes hanging out and doing small talk. Apparently, almost everyone had had a crush on Marinette sometime in the past. The couple vehemently urged Sabrina to find someone else. The only ones who had a chance with her were Adrein(if he got his head out of the clouds) and Kagami, everyone else might as well give up. She also learned that while Marinette was a great friend she was seriously a freak in some ways and might sometimes watch around a corner for some reason. Well that explains all the Adrien photos on her wall. She thought. She was a little sad that Marinette didn’t have a crush on her, but if that's what she does with her crushes…maybe that was for the best.

After about five minutes Sabrina found out they were also fans of her favorite book of all time. After nearly exploding with joy, she spent the next few minutes talking(interrogating) them about it. They apparently really loved the gay side characters(no surprise) but Sabrina and Juelka couldn’t agree if Greta’s abusive mother deserved redemption

They now had exactly 20 minutes until Chloe's alarm would ring.

Chapter Text

Sabrina was still gushing about her favorite book ( the sword fight near the end was so cool! ) when Alix and Max nearly barrelled into the tree they were sitting around.

“Sabrina, I have a favor to ask you,” Alix puffed out. “Max thinks he knows more about history than me and I got to prove him wrong!”

“I admit you're spectacular in this field but I refuse to relinquish my title ‘Smart Kid’ to you!” Max said, pushing up his glasses.

The girls around the tree blinked. “Uh sure, I’d be glad too” Sabrina said before quickly adding to Juleka and Rose, “I-If that’s fine with you guys I mean!” please don’t be mad, please don’t mad, ple--

“I don’t mind as long as it’s okay with you.” Juleka stressed.

Yeah, don’t feel pressured to do some you don’t want to.” Rose reassured. “Do whatever you think is fun.” 

Sabrina felt a warmth in her chest. She knew it was probably just pity, or what you're supposed to say in this situation but it still was nice. Chloe never let her choose who to hang out with. It was great having friends even if she’d have to go back to Chloe eventually.

But not now

“Thanks but I think I’m going to hang out with Alix and Max for a while. So bye” she finished awkwardly.

“Have fun! Me and Juleka have plenty of ways to keep ourselves entertained while you're away”  Rose said

With that settled Sabrina and the other nerds left to do the strange contest. Sabrina for one couldn’t wait to get away so she wouldn’t have to hear the girls hot loud makeout session. They stopped in a circle of trees.

“So what do you want me to do? Not sure what I can do besides keep score” Sabrina said

“Actually we were planning to have you serve as the judge of the competition.” Max replied.

“What! What makes you think I would be good at that!”

“Your one of the smartest kids in class, duh” Alix chimed in “And most importantly, a non biased one”

“I’ve told you, markov in entirely capable of being unbiased if he wants to”

“Yeah, well excuse me if I question if he’ll choose to be unbiased with his robo-dad”

“S-Sorry, but are you really sure you want me as the judge? I’m not really that smart, I'm just good at notes. Why not ask Alya or Marinette?” Sabrina interjected.

“Alya is busy, and Marinette is being weird. Besides, it will be fun. All you have to do is ask us the weirdest trivia questions you can come up with and jot down who gets the most.” The short girl explained.

“Indeed I concur this will be the best way to see who is truly the most knowledgeable. If it’s not too much trouble we would really like it if you helped us out.” 

Sabrina thought about it. It was just a friendly competition and she should be fine if she makes sure to only ask fair questions. Besides, it was a favor. “Fine, I'll do it. Sorry if any of the questions end up being too easy though…”

For the next several minutes they played the game. Sabrina dredged up every ounce of history knowledge she could (and what she could get from a quick google search) and asked every question that she could come up with.

“What was George Washington's middle name?” 

“Trick question! Most Americans didn’t have one at that time” Alix quickly responded.

Alix was winning by a lot. Max was incredibly smart but in this area Alix had him beat.

As the game kept going the questions got weirder . Sabrina’s mind started to wander and she asked any question that was even vaguely related to history.  Max and Alix didn’t seem to mind. It seemed they thought it made the game more fun. It was here that Max started to gain ground. Since a lot of these weirder questions started to veer closer to hard sciences he actually had a chance.

“About a 100 million years ago what creature without blood lived in the western interior seaway where America would be?”

“Those would be Crinoids, a type of creature that is best known today for including feather stars and sea lilies.” 

At the end they had been there for well over forty minutes. Alix had answered the most questions but Max was only down by ten.

“I must concede you truly are unmatched in the area of history.” Max does a mock bow

“Damn right, I can’t wait until I tell Kim!” Alix laughed

“C-Come on let’s not get hasty now-”

They kept bickering but Sabrina was smiling to herself. That was amazing! Sure she wasn’t competing but just hanging out with them was fun. It was cool to talk about nerd stuff with someone else. Chloe never really took an interest in what she liked. She was just her little helper. Meant to be seen and not heard. But here among her classmates she could forget about it for a while.

-----------

Sabrina continued to talk with them for a minute before her phone started vibrating. She excused herself and checked it. It was 11:20! Chole’s must already be awake. She’ll be so mad! I’m usually good at schedules, how did I let myself forget!

Sabrina checked her texts.

Chloe: Sabrina we’re going to the mall today, meet me there in five minutes.

Sabrina quickly started to respond.

Sabrina: Yes Chloe. I’ll be there as quickly as I can.

Chloe: What do mean by that? We both know you don’t have a life.

Sabrina: It’s nothing I just got hold up. I promise, I won’t leave you waiting for too long.

Chloe: Uh this week has been ridiculous! utterly ridiculous! I’ve gotten attacked three times this week because of you but you still have the nerve to not be there when I need you. Honestly I wonder why I even bother.

Sabrina: I’m sorry I’m sorry. I promise I’ll be better. I promise.

Chole: you better. Honestly I’ve done so much for you and treat me like garbage. It’s not like I’m the only one who would accept a freak like you.

Chole:  get here soon or might need to find a new best friend.

------

Alix was still talking to Max though she wondered what was keeping Sabrina. She didn’t seem to be talking on the phone but she disappearing like that felt weird for just texting someone. Maybe it was her dad?

Sabrina broke into a sprint and started running toward the edge of the park. Well that’s not good. Not really knowing why Alix ran after her. The logical part of her brain was telling her to turn back, that anyone running that fast after texting someone is definitely going to become an akuma, and that wasn’t a good place to be. Alix ignored that part of her brain. While she was smart like Max her impulsivity rivaled Max’s boyfriend. Alix was simple, like a hammer. If she wanted to do something she did it. And if she wanted to help? That’s what she was going to do.

Alix caught up with her and grabbed her arm a few feet from the road “Sabrina what’s wrong? Are you okay?”

Sabrina pulled away looking panicked “Chloe’s so mad, I have to go, I have to go…”

“Who gives a shit what Chloe thinks?! Sabrina you have friends here, friends who don’t treat you like she does. If she makes you this scared she’s not your friend.” Alix tries her best to be comforting even if she wasn’t the best at it.

“I don’t care! If I lose her I lose everything! You're all liars! Everyone hates me but at least Chloe's honest!”

“Sabrina what the hell are you talking about, why would you thi--”

Before Alix could finish, Sabrina rushed across the road narrowly avoiding a car. Alix just stared as she Sabrina continued to run away. What the fuck was that?

Alix wondered what she should do. Sabrina wasn't stable at all. Alix knew Chloe had damaged her confidence, but not to this extent. This was not healthy behavior. Part of Alix wanted her to leave the issue alone. It wasn’t her job to help everyone and frankly she wasn’t sure she had the skills to do it. But…

She couldn’t help but remember how they felt when the class was still under Chloe’s thumb. Or how Marinette looked before Alya came along. Maybe it was foolish but Alix couldn’t stand to see Chloe still getting away with abusing people. Sabrina wasn’t really her friend, they had only hung out a few times, but Alix wanted to be her friend. Today was fun and it was nice to have more nerds in the class. Alix didn’t like the idea of that smiling girl she was playing with earlier being reduced to a crying mess. 

Alix was a woman of action. She wasn’t going to stand by and let something like this happen. She was going to do something.

But she’ll need some help.

Chapter Text

Marinette was quietly talking to Alya by a tree. After her surveillance plan failed (Juleka could be scary ) Marinette decided she should talk to an expert. Alya was a little apprehensive but once she learned it was for a good cause, and not for Marinette’s crush, she was more than ready to help. After badgering interviewing their classmates the girls met back up to discuss their findings.

Marinette collapsed on the ground and groaned “This is taking forever! We’re never going to solve the problem at this rate!”

Alya laughed “Come on it’s not that bad, what you’d learn girl?”

“Just that they met when they were eight and that Sabrina has always been jumpy.” Marinette sighed.

“Damn girl, you really are bad at this.”

“I know.”

“Well don’t worr-----”

“Hey listen up!” Alix ran into the middle of the park followed by a very anxious looking Max. “Whatever is going on with Sabrina is worse than we thought!” 

Marinette stood up Oh god damn it, it’s only been a day! How did I let it get even worse! Everyone in the class crowded around Alix asking what was wrong.

“What’s going on?”

“Who’s hurt?”

“Is she okay?”

 Ivan looked particularly worried and yelled over the chatter “What happened, is she okay?”

“If you quiet down I’ll tell you!” the class shuts up. After a few seconds Alix continues “Sabrina got a text on her phone and started crying. She then ran away saying that Chloe was mad at her. She sounded really scared. I don’t know what’s going on, but we got to do something.”

The class erupted into concerned muttering. Marinette facepalmed they weren’t going to get anywhere like this. However, this could be an opportunity… 

Marinette spoke up “Talking over each other isn’t helping! If we want to do anything, we need to be able to share information effectively. So with that in mind…” She took out her phone and fiddled with it. Ding! Everyone got a notification on their phone.

-----------------

Akuma class added to group chat

Alya : Marinette, I love you, but you are such a dork

Marinette : Fair, but now we can put all our thoughts in one place. And as long as everyone TYPES ONE AT A TIME we won’t have to talk over each other.

Marinette : Now what do we actually know?

Alix : It's like I said, she got a text from Chloe and ran off. She looked scared. 

Alix : I think Chole is hurting her.

Marinette : are you sure

Mylene : Sabrina has been akumatized a lot lately. That would explain why.

Max : speaking of which, I suggest we start packing up. According to my calculations she should be akumatized in about 2-4 minutes. Assuming of course that hawkmoth is on the ball.

Adrien : I have to head home, my dad doesn’t want me out during akuma attacks

-------------

Marinette tapped her foot. She needed to collect all the information she could, but if Max was right, an akuma was about to attack. She was needed here but she couldn’t have Vanisher causing mayhem. 

She sees Cat Noir pole vaulting through the city. She smiles. Good Kitty. She goes back to talking to the class.

-----------

Marinette skims through the classes goodbyes to Adrien before catching up to the conversation.

Nino : So shouldn't we call someone, tell the school. This is bad. She got akumatized a lot this week. This can’t be healthy.

Mylene : The Mayor has most of the government in his pocket. We’d need a lot more proof before they’d do anything.

Marinette : Then let’s gather all the information we have about her. Nothing too small. If nothing else it will help us make her feel comfortable around us.

Marinette : speaking of all the information we have.

Adds Kagami, luka, and Marc

Marc : Why am I here?

The class fills in the new arrivals

Ivan: before we begin I want to get something off my chest. When I helped organize the get together Sabrina told me she couldn’t stay long because Chloe was waking up at 11. She got the text around 11:20. I should have reminded her. I just didn’t think that Chloe would harass her so suddenly. This is all my fault.

Mylene: Don’t talk like that. You didn’t know that Chloe would be this extreme about Sabrina being late.

Ivan: I just wish I could have helped.

Kagami: What’s done is done. What we should focus on is what we can do now.

Marinette: She’s right. I didn’t realize it was this bad either. Don’t beat yourself up over it.

Marinette: What do we know about her?

Alya :Okay so to start I got a lot of information so give me a sec

Alya types out for a bit.

Alya : Okay so from what I could find Sabrina first became friends with Chole when she was 8 after moving from a different elementary school.

•  Rumor has it that since they were 10 Sabrina has been doing both their homework, because of course Chloe’s that lazy.
• The girl seems to be bothered by some sounds. Like she seems to jump when people yell or kinda shut down when the lunch room is really noisy. I don’t know what that’s about but I thought I should mention it.
• As most of you know around two months ago she started giving everyone these red envelopes. She said they were an apology gift and that we could trade them in to have her do favors for us(ex: she helped me do some research on the miraculous). 

Marc: Oh yeah, she gave some of those! She helped me plan a date with Nath. She was really insistent on not being thanked tho.

Kim: Sabrina feels really bad about helping chloe. She really wants to make up for it. Heck she helps me all the time (one of those things Max will have to wait until his birthday for. wink)

Max: blushes

Kagami: Stop flirting and stay on task

Juleka: Sabrina is pretty shy. She was scared to talk to anyone when she first got here. God knows I can relate.

Rose: We showed her around for a bit. She’s really cool to hang out with and is really passionate about the things she loves. However, she did start to get overwhelmed after socializing for a while.

Max: We shouldn’t rush to conclusions but if she is bothered by people as much as you say, we should be careful not to come on too strong. Talking to her as the entire class may be detrimental. 

Marinette: Noted. Is there anything else?

Luka: One last thing. I haven’t really met her much, but her melody seems off. It feels like there’s so much joy and love of life that’s squashed by a fear of rejection. It’s more than just Chloe. She must conceal a lot for me to notice after only a few brief meetings.

Luka: at least that’s what it sounds like.

Nino: Well that totally doesn’t sound like a foreboding prophecy.

Alya: So what should our actual plan be? We can’t go to the police. So are we just set on gathering information.

Juleka: I know we can’t do it but I really hate Chloe. I wanna stab her with a sword.

Kagami: I have a sword.

Alix: I can find a sword.

Marinette: NO STABBING PEOPLE! I don’t need you guys going to jail. If we're going to do this we won’t sink to her level. 

Marinette: yes we are going to continue trying to gather information, but I also want you all to try and get closer to her. If Chloe is really hurting her I want Sabrina to know that she has friends to turn to. I want to create as many routes of escape as possible. 

Marinette: With that said we should all head home. We’ll discuss this more later.

The class said their goodbyes and dispersed. Ready to start their mission.

Chapter Text

Sabrina couldn’t hear over the pounding of her heart.

She didn’t know how long she’d been running but she couldn’t stop. Chloe said she would get rid of Sabrina, and the girl couldn’t handle that. I can’t be alone, I just can’t! Sabrina barrels through several people just keeps running.

Her thoughts started to speed up and cloud her mind. I have friends I don’t have to go with Chloe--- Chloe knows what I am and accepts me! No one else would dare!--- Oh my God, I said that out loud to Alix! She probably thinks I’m a bitch! She hates me! They hate me!

Sabrina collapses to the ground, tears blocking her vision. I wanna go back - Chole needs me!--- I wanna hide---I wanna cry---I wanna go home.

                                                                                           I just wish I could be everywhere at once.

                                                                                                          “CATACLYSM!”

She looked up and Chat Noir’s clenched hand was inches from her head. He opened it and a dark ash poured out. He smiled and said in a kind voice “Do you need someone to talk to?”

Sabrina looked away. She could feel the eyes of the people around her. Just another freak to gawk at. She answered in a quiet voice. “It’s fine. I… have to get going. Sorry to be a bother.” Sabrina tries to get up but finds she can’t. Her legs wouldn’t respond. She sits there a moment.

“You okay?”

“Just give me a moment!” Sabrina got up, her limbs feeling like they were full of bricks. She starts stumbling in the direction she was going. She could still feel people staring at her. Chat Noir stepped in front of her. “Wait, Sabrina. You’re going to hurt yourself if you keep going like this”. He paused a second before snapping his fingers “How about you sit for a bit and I’ll take you the rest of the way there?”

“I told you I’m fine. I just can’t be late.”

“You’ll definitely be late if you end up in the hospital.”

Sabrina sighed defeated, “Fine.”

Chat Noir gave a kind smile “I promise you, you're making a good decision.” He then offered his hand. “With that out of the way, hold on tight.” She held onto him as he pogo jumped them up to a nearby roof. It had a large billboard and pieces of ventilation but otherwise was barren. Chat Noir set her down by the billboard. “One second miss, I got to recharge. I’ll be right back!” He bounced over to a nearby building.

Sabrina sat there stewing in her thoughts. It felt like everything had gone wrong. I never should have accepted Ivan’s offer. If I had just kept to myself Chloe wouldn’t be mad at me. I was greedy. I deserve this. 

Chat landed next to her before leaning on the billboard. “Are you doing okay?” Sabrina shrugged and pulled her knees to her chest.

Chat sits down. “That bad huh? You don’t have to say anything if you don’t want to… but I’m here if you need me.” 

It was silent for a few minutes. Everything felt distant to Sabrina. She felt empty. Like all the emotions that had fueled her to this point had got up and left. Even her fear of Chloe felt like a half remembered memory. She started absentmindedly using her fingers to draw small circles on her vest. She liked feeling the texture of the thread as it created the diamond patterns. This wasn’t the first time Sabrina had felt like this, and it helped to have something to ground her. To remind her she still existed.

Eventually she came back to (rough) consciousness.  She turned to Chat and quietly said “Sorry for being a bother, I’ve just been having a rough week.”

“Eh don’t sweat it, we all have off days. Besides, it’s my job to be a superhero, I couldn’t leave a beautiful lady in trouble!” he smirked, obviously(even to Sabrina) just trying to cheer her up. Sabrina blushed. It was nice to be recognized as a girl. A Beautiful one at that.

Both of them were silent for a while before Chat said “Are you sure you want me to take you to Chloe? I’ve seen the way she treats you.”

“It’s complicated, I need her.”

“If you don’t mind me asking,...why?”

Sabrina looked away still playing with her vest “She helps me with things no one else will. Things I don’t want to talk about.”

“Are you sure? I mean your class is made of pretty nice people… um from what I can tell. Couldn’t they help you? You shouldn’t have to feel trapped.”

“You don’t get it, I can’t risk anyone knowing. I’m already a social pariah, I don’t want it to get worse.”

Chat was silent for a bit. “I can’t make promises for your class, but me and ladybug will still be here for you, no matter what your secret is. If she threatens to reveal it we can charge her with blackmail. Even if it doesn’t stick will make her think twice before acting. Sabrina, you shouldn’t have to be afraid.” he said the last part firmly.

She was quiet for a moment. This could be her chance. But could she risk it? “I’ll… think about it. “ she pulls at her hair in an attempt to calm her raging nerves. “ I can’t deal with her hating me right now. Maybe when she’s less mad I’ll try.” Chat looks conflicted but says nothing.

She looks over at him, her hands stilling for a moment. “Thanks. For being here. I know I don’t make it easy, but I appreciate it.”

He shrugged “people have done the same for me. The worlds a better place when you pass kindness along.”

Gathering her mental strength she took a moment to stand. “I should probably get going…” Sabrina knew that if she didn’t go now she wouldn’t go at all. Still… the idea of Chloe yelling at her made Sabrina sick to her stomach. Normally when Chloe was angry she would try and buy back her favor with gifts and promises to do better, but she wasn’t sure how she could do that in this situation. Chat wasn’t likely to drop her off at a store before taking her to Chloe. She took a deep breath. Wait what’s that smell? It was coming from below them. A woman was spraying some kind of perfume. Sabrina looked to the side.  The billboard was for Adrien: The Fragrance.

“Hey Chat, can I stop down there for a minute.”

“Sure but… is that Adrien; the Fragrance ?!”

Yeah it’s Chloe's favorite… Is something wrong?”

“No, it's fine! I just keep forgetting how popular this ad is.” He says the last part under his breath. “How did I miss that?”

                                                                                                     ---------

After a while of shopping Sabrina finally let him take her to the mall. He didn’t like the idea but she was insistent on it. He just hoped that hawkmoth would give them a break. Why’d he have to be such a dick and go after specific people? Cat Noir hoped this would end soon. At least with Mr. Pigeon his transformations were somehow more spread out(If only slightly).

He wasn’t sure how to feel about the whole situation. Part of him screamed that this had to be a mistake. Chloe wouldn’t hurt someone this badly, would she? No matter how much he saw Chloe do, he still remembered her as that girl that had been there for him when he had no one else. He remembered her smile, the way she laughed, them playing in the garden while their parents talked. Part of him struggled to see the Chloe he knew practically break Sabrina like this.

But he couldn’t ignore the evidence, his cat-like senses could hear Sabrina’s heartbeat as she looked for Chloe. He could see how tense she was. As much as he loved Chloe he’d have to go into this with his eyes open. His lady had given him a task, and he wasn’t about to disappoint.

After a bit of waiting they finally spotted Chloe in the distance. Behind her were two of the hotel's employees carrying an enormous amount of bags.

“Ah ridiculous, utterly ridiculous, what do you mean it isn’t in stock!”

“I’m sorry ma’am but they're all sold out, there’s nothing we can do!”

“Don’t give me excuses! One call to my daddy and you’ll be on the street!”

Yep, that was Chloe. If Adrein was out of costume he would be trying to calm her down, but there was only so much he could do as Cat Noir. He glanced over to Sabrina. She just stood there looking at her shoes. Waiting. It reminded him more that he liked how Kagami sometimes looked when near her mom. This was a bad id----

“Sabrina! there you are!” She turns back to the hotel staff “Give her the bags and go back to the car. I don’t want to even look at you anymore!” The staff does as she commands without a word. Sabrina is practically buried in bags and looks like she’s about to tip over.

“uh-Heavy…”

“Hey! You really shouldn’t put so much weight on her! She’s been having a rough day!” Chat snapped

Chloe fixed him with a glare, seeming to finally notice his existence. “Let me guess, she got akumatized again?” she rolled her eyes “No wonder she upped and vanished”   Chat grit his teeth but didn’t respond.

“I-I’m so sorry Chloe, I slept in, please it will n-never happen again! I even bought you your favorite perfume to make up for it.” Sabrina kinda wiggles one of the bags in her arms.

Chloe rips the bag from her grasp. Before peeking inside. “Huh, good enough.” she tosses the bag behind her and Sabrina narrowly catches it. Chloe just starts to walk away motioning for Sabrina to follow. “Hurry up, I want to get these checked out before next week!”

“W-wait, you're not mad are you? You're not going to get rid of me?” Hope and skepticism warred on her face.

Chloe spares her a glance. “No. not really, I’ve learned not to expect anything worthwhile from you.” a cruel smile played across her lips. “Now hurry up, my stuff isn’t going to check itself out.”

Sabrina looked heartbroken but did as she was told. Chat Noir let out a breath. He had enough of this. He grabs Chloe’s arm “Can I talk to you for a moment.”

Chloe rolled her eyes and motioned for Sabrina to not wait for her. Good chat though that makes this easier. “You need to stop treating Sabrina like this. You're hurting her and I’m done letting you get away with this.”

She yanked her arm from his grasp. “Yeah right, I’m helping her! No one needs a girl like her. I give her everything she could ever need, all I ask is she return the favor. What’s wrong with that?”

“You know damn well that you're taking more than she can give. You know what repeated akumatizations can do to a person. What if she dies?”

“I’m not at fault if she can’t control her emotions. Besides, she needs me. I’m the only one who accepts the real her. With me she has value. Will you really take that away from her?”

“Can it with the false concern! Her class is full of understanding people who would gladly accept her. You're the reason Sabrina thinks differently. Honestly Chloe, sometimes you're just as bad as your mother.”

Something flickered across her face for a moment before the bully schooled her features. “I’ll take that as a complement. At least she was honest. Can you really believe that they will ‘accept her with open arms’ or whatever sappy crap you got in your head? Give me a break! She could be an ax murderer for all you know.”  she laughs at her own joke. “I know every last thing about her. She leaves and I could just tell everyone her dirty secrets.”

“Chole, if you do that I promise I will make sure you're prosecuted for blackmail.” She scoffs but Chat continues speaking “Even if you never go to court it can sure inconvenience  your dad’s reelection campaign. Think carefully.”

“W-whatever, fine! But I warn you, the secret will come out eventually, and then you’ll be sorry!”  She storms off.

She turns around a few meters away. “This is what I hate about you ridiculous heroes, you're messing with the natural order of things. People like Sabrina, they exist to serve people like me. To add something of worth to the world they could never on their own. Not that I could expect a peasant like you to understand.” She storms off.

Did he win? Chat didn’t exactly feel like he won. At least he made sure that Chole wasn’t going to outright blackmail Sabrina (he hoped). Actually helping her was going to be difficult. He was going to have to tell Ladybug about this. 

Chat took a deep breath and vaulted back toward his house. There was only so much bribing Gorilla would accept before he got worried.

Destruction had done its part, clearing away barriers to freedom. Now something new would have to be created in its place.

Chapter Text

Sabrina kept glancing anxiously at her phone. Why are there so many?.

She was riding in the limo on her way to school with Chloe. Ever since her little “outburst” at the party she kept getting concerned messages from the class. She hadn’t read most of them. She didn’t want to think about what happened. 

The car ride was mostly quiet. Chloe was still mad at her for Saturday but things had mostly calmed down. Sabrina sighed internally. Tracking Chloe’s moods was a pain. It wasn’t (as) hard with the other students. Being with Chloe was like walking around a minefield. Perhaps she thought I should take Chat up on his offer. Leave Chloe …

I’m  the only one who would accept a freak like you

Sabrina shuddered at the voice in her head. She would take Chat up on his offer. Just not today.

-------

As they walked through the halls Sabrina could sense something was different. She could feel the eyes on her. Grossed her out. I should be used to this by now. Then something unexpected happened.

“Hi Sabrina!” Mylene called across the hall.

“Hey Sabrina! Hope you have a good day!” Rose called out followed by a softer greeting from Juleka.

All the way to the classroom other students kept greeting Sabrina. She had to stifle a smile so Chloe wouldn’t see. Chloe grabbed her wrist(hard) and yanked her along. When they got into class Chloe practically threw Sabrina in her seat. “Make sure my homework is ready or whatever.”

Sabrina sighed and did just that. Rubbing her wrist from where Chloe grabbed her. The rest of the class started to file in. As Sabrina started looking over her work to make sure that she got the answers right and mimicked Chloe’s handwriting satisfactorily, someone walked over to their table.

“Yo dudette, I just wanted to let you know that in two months Jagged is going to have a concert. The rest of the class were planning to go. You wanna come?”

“Sabrina doesn’t need you, glasses boy. She’ll go with someone above the poverty line.”

Nino stared at Chloe with an emotion Sabrina couldn’t identify. He narrows his eyes at Chloe but leaves.

Chloe whispers to Sabrina “Remember, none of them will accept the real you.” Sabrina shivers but says nothing.

------

Sabrina was running a chore for Chloe(she wanted expensive chocolate for her lunch break) and had just got back into the courtyard when Baaamm! Sabrina found herself on the ground.

“Oh I’m so sorry!” said a voice above Sabrina. 

“Don’t worry about it! I’m just clumsy.” Sabrina said rubbing her head

“No, I was on my phone. Here, let me help you up.” the girl above her said, extending her hand. She looked like an angel with her golden hair ringed by sunlight. “Here’s your bag. Again, sorry for running into you.”

Sabrina finally had a good chance to look at her savior. It was Aurore. The really pretty weather girl from Mendelev’s class. They didn’t really know each other that well, but Sabrina enjoyed hanging out when she did her favors. Last time Sabrina helped her set up a weather tracking app on her computer. Sabina fiddles with her hands. “I-it’s fine, really.”

“It was still my fault but whatever.” Aurore quickly moved on before Sabrina could say anything “It’s great to see you. I miss hanging out with you.”  The girl fiddles with her umbrella and gives Sabrina a small smile.

“Really?... Well it was nice hanging out with you as well.”

“Do you think you could come to my house sometime? There’s some amazing weather data I want to show you.”

“I don’t know, I don’t want Chloe to be mad at me.”

Aurore had a look of pity on her face. Though much to Sabrina’s surprise she didn’t broach the topic. “Don’t go if you can’t but I would really like you to come over Sunday? Maybe 8:00? ” Aurore rushed the last part.

Sabrina looked away hiding her blush. She’s just being nice. Probably just pities you. “I’ll… think about it.” Realizing that that sounded harsher than she wanted “N-not that I don’t like you, just I need to make sure it fits in my schedule and all that.”

Aurore practically beamed. “Well, I hope you can make it.” she backs up, almost tripping over a trash can. “Gotta go! Bye!”

Sabrina stood there for a second. She wasn’t lying when she said she would like hanging out with Aurore, however she couldn’t predict Chloe’s whims. Sabrina hoped she wouldn’t disappoint the weather girl.

As she started to head back to class, she got pelted in the head by a paper airplane. She looked around and found Kim “hiding” behind a bench. He was wearing a trenchcoat and shades. She rolled her eyes at him but opened the message.

Agent Rain 

That was the cringiest flirting I’ve ever seen.

Agent Cupid

“No it wasn’t! You're worse.” she pouted. 

He came out of hiding. “Fair. But seriously, do you think you like her?”

“I-I don’t know! Maybe? She’s really pretty and she makes me feel weird inside.”

“Butterflies in your stomach?”

“...”

“Bad taste?”

“Bad taste.”

He rubs the back of his neck “Sorry. I really think you should take this chance though. You two could be cute together.”

“But what if Chloe finds out? She wouldn’t want me dating people.”

“Chloe is not your girlfriend, she doesn’t get a say in your love life. Besides, if she gets between you two I’ll throw her off the roof.”

Sabrina snickered at that mental image. “ Do you really think I have a chance? What if she thinks I’m… weird? Or not good enough?”

“Well I don’t know much about being normal” he says, gesturing to the fact he was wearing sunglasses and a trenchcoat. “But if she thinks you're not good enough, then she’s an idiot. You’re smart, funny and hard working. If she wants to give that up for ‘normal’ then she never was worth your time.”

Sabrina blushed at the compliment. “All right, I’ll give it a shot!”

“Hell yeah!” Kim gives her a high five.

She smiled at him before a worry started to worm its way into her mind. “I should probably get back. Don’t want Chloe to wonder where I’ve been.”

“If that’s what you want, sure. Though you could stay out her a little longer. You could always say you were held up by something.”

“Wait, I just realized why aren’t you in class. Me and Aurore were running errands. What were you doing?”

He gave a sheepish smile. “Skipping class.I know that Max and Alix will chew me out for it, but I was bored.”

She sighed “I wish I could stay. But I have to do the homework for the both of us, so I can’t afford to miss too many of the notes.”

“Alright, just know I’m out here until next class if you want to talk.”

Sabrina started to head back to class. She felt lonely. Ever since she started to hang out with the class on a more substantial level, it became harder and harder to go back to the way things were. She was tired of being a prop. There when Chloe needed her but expected to stay out of the way when she wasn’t useful. 

She knew the other students wouldn’t like her if they knew the truth, but it felt so much better than what she had with Chloe. She felt like a person. Sabrina turned around.

“Hey, while I can’t hang out right now, do you want to come to my house later? I have to do homework but it would be nice to hang out.”

He turned to her with a smile on his face. “Sure. I can bring a soccer ball if you want.”

“That actually sounds really freaking cool.” she stops before adding. “Come around 8, that way there’s not a chance of Chloe stopping by.”

“Agent Cupid reporting for duty!” he gives a mock salute.

She gives him one in return before scurrying back to class.

Chapter Text

Sabrina was surprised that the class being nice wasn’t a one day thing. She didn’t think it could last. Who would like a freak like her?

But they didn’t think so. She was having a hard time believing it, but it was happening. For the rest of the week she kept getting little doses of kindness. The class would invent excuses for her to be separated from Chloe, or talk to her whenever she was alone.

They even started asking more favors from her. The weird part was they weren’t asking her to do anything particularly hard and were fine with her rescheduling. She wasn’t dumb. She realized that they were using it as an excuse to spend time with her. But she couldn’t understand why. They don’t want her to do things for them(not really) but they also wanted to hang out with her? She wasn’t that interesting. What do they get from her?

She liked the attention but it was so confusing.

--------

Nino gave her a copy of one of Jagged Stone’s albums. “ I know you don’t listen to albums that much, but I thought it’d be nice to show you some hidden gems that don’t get much radio play.”

“Are you sure you want to give me this? I mean I don’t know when I’ll have time to listen to it.”

“Don’t sweat it! I already have it memorized. Just try and get it back to me by the end of the month, so we can talk about it.”

--------

Ivan helped her carry some of Chloe’s bags. “You shouldn’t have to do this by yourself.”

--------

Rose gave her the links to some cool fanfics about her favorite book. “Since you loved the book so much I thought you would like these too. Oh, I also added in some of Juleka’s favorites. Ask her if you want any more, it’s always been her comfort series.”

--------

Mylene used a favor to have Sabrina help her create some pamphlets. It was to spread awareness for a bill that would prevent teachers from talking about LGBTQ+ topics. It was the one that Ivan had mentioned to her. They were over at Mylene’s house because she already had the materials.

Eventually they took a break and Mylene made them some tea. “Thanks again for helping out, you’re a lot better at organizing than I am.” Mylene smiles as she drinks her tea, “The whole class will sleep easier if this bill doesn’t pass.”

Sabrina nodded at that. With many of the class being part of the community( especially including Mrs. Bustier) it would make school unbearable. Sabrina wouldn’t want anyone forced to go back into the closet(even if she wasn’t really out herself). 

“Are you enjoying the tea Sabrina?”

She blinked out of her thoughts. She had barely touched her cup. Did I really forget free food!? “Sorry I was just distracted.” 

“Is something bothering you?”

“It’s just… I wish I was more helpful. I could do more, but I’m scared if Chloe finds out she’ll tell the Mayor.” The mayor thought that supporting the bill would help his reelection. It would be bad for Sabrina and her father if he found out she helped with protests.

“Every little bit helps, Sabrina. Besides, I wouldn’t want you to put yourself at risk. “

“Still, I really hope it doesn’t go through. No one should be scared to be their true self.” Sabrina looked away sadly suddenly, a lot more conscious of her body.

If Mylene noticed her discomfort, she didn’t force the issue.

--------

Marinette brought extra sweets for Sabrina. Passing them to her when people weren’t looking.

-------

Adrien and Kagami would keep Chloe distracted when the others couldn’t. Using their influence to give her better things to do.

-------

Alya used a favor to have Sabrina help her research more about the miraculous. They texted a little bit in the evening. It helped Sabrina to feel a little less alone.

-------

Chloe shook with rage. She knew what they were doing. They wanted to take what was hers. Someone is going to pay for this.

Chapter Text

Chloe and Sabrina stood on the second floor overlooking the courtyard. Sabrina was holding a bucket of pink paint. Sabrina’s head swam from the smell.  She was just barely avoiding a shutdown.  Everything beyond a foot or two was blurry and indistinct. Chloe was smiling meanly next to her and there was a wicked glint in her eye.

“I think it’s about time people remember who runs this school. And I know the perfect victim.”

“I don’t wanna do this.” Sabrina mumbled

Chloe rolled her eyes before gripping Sabrina’s forearm, her nails digging into them. “Like you get a choice.” Chloe pushed the bucket so some of the repulsive paint got on Sabrina’s shorts. She felt like her brain was on fire.

“Now where was I… Yes, the perfect victim. She should really thank me, you know. Now Juleka can match her dumb girlfriend. We just have to wait for the right moment.” 

Sabrina started coming in and out of conscious thought. Chloe was suddenly scrolling through her phone, though Sabrina didn’t remember her taking it out. More people were below too. Is it lunch? 

At the entrance to the courtyard most of the class was filing in. including Juleka and Rose. She was going to hurt her again wasn’t she? Just like with Reflekta. She’s a monster. She always was.

She fades again. Everyone was sitting down now. Juleka was talking to her friends. She looked so happy. She didn’t want to hurt her. Chloe was still texting on her phone. Phone? I have a phone! I even have Juleka’s number. Could she do it? What if Chloe found out?

Wait! Please! Come back! Don’t leave me here! 

Help!!!

Never again. Never again . She worked up the nerve and slowly reached into her shorts pocket. She pulled up Juleka’s contact and started texting her. Her fingers were sluggish but got the job done.

Sabrina: abvourd the balcony

Sabrina: Look up

Sabrina: look up

Sabrina: look

Sabrina could see Juleka pulling out her phone. Sabrina sighed and started rocking back and forth. Anything to silence the fire in her brain. She focused on the way the metal handle of the bucket dug into her skin. 

Her phone buzzing brought her back. Checking to make sure Chloe wasn’t watching (she wasn’t) Sabrina snuck a glance at her phone.

Juleka: I got your message

Juleka: It’s okay, I’m sending help

Help? Sabrina took a moment to process this. She hated how hard it was to think like this. Every thought felt like dredging water from a well. Why would she help me? I barely did anything? How would they even--

“The fuck-- hey not on the jacket!” Chloe screeched.

Alix and Kim basted Chloe with water pistols filled with paint. Kim was dressed in his trench coat and sunglasses. Sabrina felt a smile on her face.

“ATTACK!” Kim yells

“How about a taste of your own medicine Chloe!”

“You’ll pay for this you freaking peasants --- HEY!!!” Chloe yelped as she fled from the onslaught.

“That’s what you get!”Alix yelled before adding under her breath “Fucking bitch.”

“You alright Sabrina?” Kim asks and Sabrina flinches. She didn’t even see him get so close. She was in full shutdown at this point. Couldn’t talk, could barely move. She just stood there clutching the bucket.

“Hey, try to be a little quieter big guy.” Alix softly says to Kim who nods. “Sabrina, can you hear us?” 

After what feels like forever, Sabrina forces herself to nod.

“Alright, if this is what I think it is…Sabrina do you want us to get rid of the bucket?” 

Sabrina groggily nodded. Kim pried the bucket from her hands. Sabrina immediately began hugging herself and clutching her arms hard enough to hurt. Kim went to dispose of the paint while Alix stayed with her.

“Sabrina, class is about to start soon, and I doubt the crowds are going to help. Would you be okay with us moving you?” the pink haired girl asked. Sabrina honestly didn’t realize the girl could be this quiet or considerate. 

As the seconds stretched on Sabrina blinked. Oh shit, I was asked a question! She hastily nods. Alix guides her over to an empty classroom and brings her inside. Sabrina slumped against a wall. Kim came back the squeaking of the door feeling like knives and sat in the room with them.

Sabrina kept drifting in and out of consciousness. The smell never seemed to go away. Eventually Kim “whispered”( it was only quiet by Kim standards.) “Won’t people come looking for us? I don’t want Sabrina to get in trouble.” he adds the next part quieter, almost an actual whisper. “Especially if Chloe decides to get back at us sooner than later.”

“Don’t worry bro,  I called in reinforcements.”

At that moment Marc and Nathaniel walked in ( thankfully the damn door didn’t squeak .) Nathaniel was brandishing a broom. Kim raises an eyebrow.

“Akumas.” Nathaniel shrugged 

“Ohhh! great idea!” Kim Whisper yelled. Alix shushes him.

As Alix and Kim left, the quiet kids sat on either side of her. She noticed that Marc had two pride pins on his backpack. One was a rainbow pin(not surprising since he was dating Nathaniel) but the other took a moment for her to recognize. Not asexual. Not genderfluid. Oh it’s the demiboy flag! Wait! Does that mean…Maybe I’m not alone. She had to talk to them later.

She couldn’t really do that now, though. For some reason the pain still hasn’t gone away. Usually her shutdowns only lasted a couple minutes but it was like she could still smell it. And then she realized it. Some got on her pants. She bangs her head on the wall.

Nathaniel cringed “You okay?”

“Is there anything we can do to help?” Marc added.

Sabrina took a deep breath. She didn’t want to talk about it. But she was tired of being in pain. Besides, it wasn't like they thought she was normal. “Smell… paint…bad” she said before gesturing to her pants.

“Well that’s not… great.” Marc thinks a bit before meeting their boyfriend's eyes. The two both nod “Wait here, I’ll be right back.”

Sabrina continued to try and soothe herself. It was only kinda working. Nathaniel was still clutching his broom. Ready to smack butterflies.

After a bit Nathaniel spoke up. “Hey um, I don’t know if this will help… but you can play with one of my pencils. I don’t want to assume, but it’s helped some people I’m friends with so…” She nods and the artist hands a green pencil over. 

She rolled it around in her hands inspecting every crack and dent. It worked better than expected. She was so busy examining it she didn’t even notice Marc coming back.

“Okay, I was able to talk to one of the girls without miss Mendeleiev's noticing. Luckily one of them was fine with you borrowing some of their gym clothes.”

“Thanks” She takes the clothes before shooing them out the door. She gets changed. The relief is almost immediate once she steps outside. She leaned against the wall.

“Marc and I will stop by the laundromat on our way home. We should be able to get you your shorts back by tomorrow.” 

“You sure you’ll be alright?” Marc asks. She nods.

Before they could leave she blurts out “Could I talk to Marc for a bit?  Alone?”

“Go on ahead babe, I’ll catch up.”

“Alright.”

“So,” Marc turned to her, “What did you want to talk about?”

“Thanks for being there, it means a lot.”

“Don’t mention it, anyone would have done the same.”

“I know that but… it was easier to open up to you because of who you are. We’re the same. Kinda.” she points at his pride pin.

He takes a moment to get it but his eyes light up. “Oh really, what pronouns do you prefer? And would you like me to use a different name?”

“N-no. She/her is fine. I… already socially transitioned, I just never told anyone I was trans.” She keeps her eyes trained on the ground.

“It’s alright, thank you for trusting me. I use he/they by the way.” he pauses for a moment. “Does Chloe know?”

Sabrina nods “Please don’t tell anyone.”

“I mean your class is accepting of me and--”

“I don’t want anyone to know… It’s private alright.”

The artist sighs “I won’t force you, but I think it would be better if you did it on your terms rather than someone else's. I don’t want to assume, but if this is what Chloe is holding over you, telling people may be your way out.”

She rolled her eyes “I wish it was that simple. I’m broken, always will be.”

“You're not broken. You just have things you have trouble with. There’s nothing wrong with that.” He takes a moment to collect his thoughts. “I don’t know what you're struggling with, but I think you should tell someone. Think about it okay?”

“Fine…. Thanks for not being weirded out.”

“It was nothing.” the bell rings overhead.” We should get going. Feel free to talk to me about trans stuff alright. It would be nice to have another person to talk to about this.”

“That would be nice.”

They weaved between the throngs of people changing classes. As they neared Sabrina’s next class Marc whispered “By the way if you ever want to talk about your identity with someone who isn’t me, try Luka.” at her surprised look they add “He’s like us. In fact he’s pretty open about it.”

She whispers back “How’d people take it?”

“Pretty well. Told you the Akuma class was accepting.” he smirks.

They split as she heads into her next class. 

Maybe I have a chance.

Chapter Text

Luka sat on the bow of the liberty practicing his guitar and listening to the world around him. The lapping of the river, the bustle of the city, and the songs of his friends behind him. Few things made him happier than hearing the heart songs of the people he cared about.

Luka didn’t know how his power worked, or if it was one at all. All he knew was that as long as he could remember he could hear what people were like.  It even helped him see the discord in himself and realize his true self.

He could hear the sound of a fast tense drum as Marinette dashed around the boat. His sister’s low bass intertwined with Rose's trumpet while they made out. Kim’s drums parred surprisingly well with Max’s synth. Luka wasn’t completely sure what instrument best represented Markov’s essence but his best guess was a theremin. 

Luka basked in the music of the world for a few more minutes before he noticed someone coming up the gangplank. Didn’t think Sabrina would come so early. As the redhead came aboard the ship, he got his first real chance to hear her song. 

It was muffled, like he was hearing it through a layer of concrete, but it was clearer than last time he saw her. Her heart song was a clarinet that played the same melody repeatedly. A familiar shrill note plays as she sees her reflection in the water. Luka rubbed his ears. How did I miss she was trans? Clearing his head with a firm shake, he made his way over to her. 

“Hey, you wanted to talk to me?” 

She nodded and nervously looked around “Can we do this somewhere more private?”

“Follow me.”

He led her into the Liberty and to the living room. He grabbed a chair for each of them as well as a nearby bag of chips. Sitting down he opens the bag and offers it to her. After a long second of physical silence she sat down and took some. Her heart song played at a furious tempo, still repeating the same motifs. Interesting. He gave her time, humming a calm tune as he waited.

Eventually she spoke up “Did people really accept you?”

“Not everyone, but the people who matter did. It’s… nice not having to hide things.”

“What if they don’t see me the same? People see me as who I am, I don’t want that to be taken away. I don’t like things changing.” The girl fiddled with her skirt but her heart played a song that was familiar to Luka. It was hard to hear through the walls the girl kept around her, but it reminded Luka of Juleka. 

“I can’t promise things won’t change, but I can promise I’ll be in your corner. Whether in this or in any other parts of your identity you discover.”

“Promise?”

“Promise.”

-----------

Sabrina took a deep breath and adjusted her dress. She was wearing a red dress that came to her knees and black leggings.  The dress had sleeves that covered her arms(Sabrina didn’t like looking at her arms). She was wearing diamond shaped earrings and a necklace that had a sun pattern. I hope I look good enough…

It was a sunday night, around 7:50 and Sabrina was standing outside the apartment of Aurore Beauréal. Sabrina hesitantly knocked.

The door swings open before she finishes knocking “I wasn’t expecting you to be so early, come in, come.” Aurore stammers “ You look amazing by the way.”

Sabrina couldn’t help but stare as she walked in “Y-y-you also look great.” Aurore was wearing her normal outfit but her make up really brought out her eyes. They look like sapphires.

Aurore blushes but tugs Sabrina deeper into the house “come one, I have so much to show you.”

The weather girl dragged Sabrina to her room. It had a simple bed on one side and an old beat up TV on the other. But that’s not what caught the redhead’s attention. The room was covered floor to ceiling in posters about historical meteorological events, with any gaps being filled with pride merch. It was a feast for the eyes and Sabrina itched to look at every single one.

“Sorry if it’s a little messy, I forgot to clean up and…”

“I don’t care.” Sabrina was entranced by the poster. She cringed at how blunt she sounded before adding “I think they're cool.”

“R-really?! Well if you think that’s cool you're going to love what I have to show you.” Aurore pulled out her computer from under her bed and spent the next hour telling Sabrina about weather data. And Sabrina loved every second of it.

To be honest she didn’t understand half of what Aurore was saying but she loved the look in her eyes when she was passionate, how she fiddled with her umbrella when she was excited, and how she seemed to have a permanent smile on her face. Sabrina helped her organize things and commented ever now and then with her own science facts, but mostly just listened.

Eventually Aurore stepped out to get something and Sabrina took the time to examine what pride stuff she had up. She had a lesbian flag up ( Yes!) but another thing that caught Sabrina’s attention was a poster that said “Trans rights are human rights.” It’s not like it’s uncommon to have something like that, but it made Sabrina feel more confident. Perhaps she could let Aurore see this part of herself. Maybe she could love me.

Aurore came back carrying a plate of cupcakes. “Um, I brought snacks. I was going to give them to you earlier but I kinda forgot. I made them myself.”

Sabrina blushed “T-thanks.” She ate one and her eyes lit up. “These taste amazing!”

Aurore looked away with a hint of a blush. “Don’t exaggerate, they're just normal cupcakes.”

They sat down and shared the cup cakes, trying their best(and failing) not to get crumbs everywhere. When they were done their hand brushed and Aurore turned toward Sabrina. Their eyes met, and Sabrina realized that looking Aurore in the eye didn’t bother her. Usually she didn’t like eye contact, but with her it was a sight she couldn’t get enough off. 

Aurore looked away “can I ask you something?”

“Sure.”

“Do you want to date?”

“Oh! Um…”

“J-just forget it. I’m sorry I asked.” Aurore deflated and it hurt something in Sabrina’s chest.

“I didn’t say no !!! Can you give me a moment to collect my thoughts?” 

“Of course. It’s alright. Take all the time you need.” Aurore smiled and patiently waited. It surprised Sabrina. She wasn’t used to people being so understanding.

Sabrina balled her fists in her dress. She wanted this. To be loved, to be wanted. But she was trans, it felt wrong to hide it. Not to mention it could be very bad if Aurore found out later. But Sabrina was terrified of how she would react. Logically she seems to at least be a nominal ally. Nothing super bad will happen. Part of her couldn’t accept it though. 

Something bad will happen. It always does. 

She shook her head. She wouldn’t listen to it. This was a useful opportunity that she couldn’t squander. Even if she did react badly she would survive. She was fast so a bad physical reaction wasn’t too bad (even if there was no evidence that would happen) and she had friends(acquaintances? debtors? allies?) so being outed was manageable. Plus I could easily ruin her if she did. Whispered a dark part of herself.

Her body tightened as if ready to bolt but she forcibly relaxed it. She closed her eyes tight  “I’d love to be your girlfriend. But I’m trans, I may not have the ‘parts’ you want.” It was blunt, but it was all Sabrina could get out. Sabrina curled in on herself when she felt Aurore move. Aurore stopped.

“Thank you for telling me. It must have been hard for you. For the record I don’t mind. I just love you.”

“Y-your not mad?” Sabrina chanced a look at her.

“Of course. I love you. What’s in your pants won’t change that for me.” Aurore scooted her hand closer to Sabrina’s. Sabrina put hers on top of Aurore’s.

“What does this make us now?”

Aurore smiled “Well we can take it slow if you want, but I’d love to call you my girlfriend.”

“I’d love that too.”

They took a bit to discuss how this was going to work. They of course had to keep it secret from Chloe (Aurore expected as much) but Sabrina was fine with other people knowing. They also discussed the specifics of Sabrina’s identity and how she liked to be referred to(as well as  floating a few pet name ideas).

“Should I call you red. I mean you do seem to like it.”  Aurore gestured to Sabrina’s dress and hair.

“Not sure. I like it, but I don’t think I want to be called that all the time.” Suddenly her eyes light up, “Can I call you sunshine. Both because of your hair and because you brighten up my day.”

“Sunshine huh? I like it.” Aurore smiled at her. “You are so cute… If this isn’t too fast can I kiss you?”

This was going really fast. They only began dating less than an hour ago. Nevertheless she knew exactly what to say. “Yes, yes. Absolutely. Yes.” 

Aurore cupped her cheek and Sabrina did the same to her. Sabrina closed her eyes and leaned in. It was like being struck by lightning. They were both inexperienced but it made Sabrina’s head swim with delight.  Aurore put her arms on Sabrina’s shoulders and pulled her closer. It was going to be a long night.

This may have been the best decision of her life.

Chapter Text

Save Sabrina Chat:

Marinette: Okay everyone status report.

Luka: She seems to be opening up

Kim: she even let me come over to her house!

Kagami: distracting Chloe is predictably easy.

Alya: I and Alix are still cataloging all the proof of her abuses.

Alix: We managed to snag a few pictures and Markov got us some video. 

Alix: The more I see the more I want to kill Chloe.

Marrinette: I get it. You should probably take a break for a few days. You getting akumatized will only clue Chloe into what we’re doing.

Alix: Fiiiiiinnnnneeee. But Chloe better hope she doesn’t meet me in a dark alley

Nino: me and Adrien have been looking into Sabrina’s personal life, though it’ s been slow going

Adrien: I tried asking her dad, but he was pretty cagey about it. So was the Mayor.

Nino: Max still won’t help me hack Rogers computer

Max: The answer is still no.

Nino: I’m telling you, something's fishy. I’m not as good with computers as you are but Adrien's decent and we couldn’t find anything

Max: I’m not hacking a police captain’s computer on a hunch. If we’re caught there’s a 70% chance we could face legal difficulties and I don’t want that on my record. 

Nino: Okay, but if it is a cover up, I told you so

Marrinette: taking off the tinfoil hat(yes I realize the irony but I elect to ignore it) does anyone have anything else to add?

Nino: I have one more thing to add

Marrinette: 😒 What is it this time?

Nino: I totally saw Sabrina kissing Aurore under the stairs.

Kim: Fuck yeah!

Ivan: Good for her

Rose: I’m so happy for them!

Marc: I’m going to tease Aurore so much

Marinette: Alright, that's pretty cool.

Marinette: Everyone feel free to contact me if you have any questions. I’m confident we can do this if we work together!

-------------

Max switched to another tab on his computer, looking over the data the class had collected. They had done good work. Max felt confident that they had a good chance of succeeding in this mission. At least 70%. And yet something was bothering him. He was harsher than he meant to be with Nino. Max had no desire to go to prison (or get Markov confiscated) but he did want to help. I feel… dissatisfied. Yes, that's the emotion.

He swiveled in his chair toward the other side of the room. Markov was hovering over his bed trying to put together a jigsaw puzzle. “Can you assist me with something?”

“Of course! What do you require?”, Markov turned his face into a question mark.

“I want your help getting my thoughts in order. I have complicated feelings around the Save Sabrina Project and don’t know how to process them”.

Markov hovered closer before resting on Max’s desk. “Start at the beginning. What’s bothering you?”

“I feel like I can do more”.

“Is there anything in particular you want to do?”

“Unsure. I want to do more than manage spreadsheets and look through security camera footage”.

“Do you feel undervalued?”

“Negative. The others have valued the work I’ve done and I feel pride in it. The emotion I feel is more internal”, Max slowly swivels the chair from left to right repeatedly.

“Do you feel jealous of someone else?”

Max thought about this. He felt similar but not quite. His emotions also weren’t directed at anyone in particular. “More like envy. Everyone else has gotten to do something impactful with Sabrina and I feel… left out?” It sounded juvenile when he said it out loud, but it was how he felt.

“Then why not try and get to know her?” Markov tries his best to cock his head. He had to stop himself from rolling off the desk.

After making sure his friend was okay Max snarked “You know why”.

“Of course I do, but I can’t help you gather your thoughts if you don’t acknowledge them”.

He stuck his tongue out at Markov. Markov turned his face into a picture of one. Markov waited for Max’s answer.

Max hated people. Perhaps that was too far. He loved his friends (and he definitely adored his boyfriend), but the concept of people revolted him. He could never tell what they were thinking, which frustrated him to no end. It felt like everyone was lying to him, making him look like an idiot. For a long time he preferred the company of machines because at least they didn’t lie. A machine may be programmed wrong or be broken, but it would never intentionally hide things from you. Well Markov and other other sentient AI could, but Markov chose not to lie. It was something Max greatly appreciated.

It was only after he met Kim that he really was introduced to how amazing having friends is. Sometimes he wonders that if Kim didn’t come along, would he ever have let the world in?

“I’d probably just mess it up, say something wrong and scare her away”.

“Then don’t talk to her in person”.

“Elaborate”.

“Talk to her over text. You’ll get more time to organize your thoughts and all previous interactions she wouldn’t be opposed to it”.

Max nodded to himself. It made sense. “But how would I begin? Like what do we talk about?”

Markov flew back to the bed and went under, retrieving a stack of small plain red letters. “She did give you an effective conversation starter”.

-------------

Max to Sabrina

Max: I would like to request a favor from you.

20 minutes later

Sabrina: Of course. What would you want me to do? Look over your code? Research presents for Kim?

-----------

He had an idea but it was risky. It could help the class's goals substantially(and be impactful like Max desired) but it could backfire. The probability was success was lower than he would prefer, but he typed it out before he could second guess himself.

----------

Max: your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to give me the blackmail material Chloe has on the rest of the class.

20 minutes later

Max: you don’t have to if you don’t want to, I apologize if I upset you.

1 hour later

----------

Max was freaking out. He was going to wear a hole in the floor if he kept pacing like this. What was keeping her. What could he have said that would make her this angry? This went against the data, what was he not seeing?

Makov flew by his face “It’s alright, it’s probable she’s just preoccupied. Studies show not everyone answers immediately”.

“But what if that’s not the case, what if I’m making a grave error!?”

Markov grabbed his shoulder with his claw. “Max, we talked about this. You shouldn’t make predictions on incomplete data”.

The phone pings

Max practically pounced on his phone when he heard the notification.

----------

Sabrina: Here’s the thing you wanted. I listed all the material as well as some potential counter measures. It’s even ✨color-coded✨

One file is attached

--------

Max quickly read through the file. It listed every student in class alphabetically with a list of black secrets below each one, also in alphabetical order. Max didn’t do more than a cursory glance to any of them(despite how part of him was curious about Kim’s).

His was pretty detailed. It brought up how his dad left. It also listed several stimuli that particularly caused him sensory difficulties. That’s… disconcerting. Surprisingly, it didn’t list he was gay. He’d have to ask Sabrina about that.

Below the list of blackmail material was a list of possible counter measures. Each option was highlighted going from green to yellow and finally to red. The lowest was working with the class to avoid the stimuli and deal with bullies, and the highest was publicly revealing the mayor's tax fraud. Max was starting to understand why Chloe was so keen on keeping Sabrina under her thumb.(Why was Sabrina so eager to use blackmail? Max could have swore that Ivan said she offered something similar.)

He took the time to send everyone in class their section. He knew that this could be huge but he never would have suspected that Sabrina would put this much effort in. if he was in her position he would have just sent over the file with no alteration.

-----------

Max: Thanks for all the spectacular work you put into this(I appreciate that you alphabetized it.) I believe this should count as two favors.

Sabrina: Really? You don’t have to if you don’t want to, I honestly should have done this before I just never thought of it.

Max: I wouldn’t have offered if I didn’t want to follow through.

Max:  By the way, is Chloe aware I’m gay? It wasn’t in my file.

Sabrina: Not to my knowledge. I tried my best not to give her anything truly life altering. The only ones she knows about are already out.(like the Rose and Juleka, and Marc) Though she suspects Marinette might be gay.

Max: Thanks. That actually means a lot.

Sabrina: It was the least I could do. There’s incredibly sensitive stuff in those files. Including your files. 

Sabrina: You don’t have to like me, you know. I did tell her things that hurt you. I’ve seen the way you get in fire alarms and when the janitor uses the cleaning spray. I wouldn’t forgive me.

Max: Maybe I would feel different if chole actually used it, but you gave me the files when I asked and gave me blackmail on the mayor. I personally feel we’re even.

Sabrina: So does this conclude our business.

Max: Well since we’re already talking, would you mind accompanying me to the park near the school? I’m trying to get more in shape to surprise Kim. He’s always pestering me about how I shouldn’t sit around all day. We can consider this a favor as well.

Sabrina: Sure, when do you want to go?

Max: would 5:00pm tomorrow work? You can reschedule if anything comes up.

----------

Max checked his watch. Am I too early, I feel too early.  This was either Max’s best plan or one of his worst. He wasn’t exactly lying that he needed to get into shape, but it was a last ditch effort to continue the conversation.

He was dressed in a red track uniform and had a green bag with water and snacks over his shoulder. The sky was partially overcast, and if weather forecasts were accurate(and they were, he double checked the meteorologist’s work) it should remain that way for the rest of the day.

About half a minute later Sabrina came running up. “Sorry, I got caught up doing homework, but I’m here now.” She took a moment to catch her breath.

He raised an eyebrow. “What homework? I know Ms Medeleev has a paper due, but you don’t seem like the type to leave things to the last minute”.

“I know, but I had to do Chloe's paper and Ms Medeleev is a lot harder to trick than Bustier”.

“Oh, well that sucks”.

“It’s fine”.

They sit in silence for a bit.

“So do we want to start walking?” she started.

“Sure”.

They walked for a minute or two in utter silence. Oh my god I fucked up, I fucked up, she’s going to hate me!  It’s official this is the worst plan I ever had.

Sabrina takes out a small ball and starts playing with it. Squishing it, tossing it from hand to hand, rolling it along her arms. As Max got a closer look it had a cartoon picture of R2D2 on it. 

“Have you ever watched Star Wars?” he impulsively asked.

She froze for a moment as if buffering. “Yeah of course, why?”

“Who’s your favorite character?”

She looks down at the ball “Well R2D2 duh! He’s the best part of the movie!”

He was in his element. Small talk was hard, but talking about things like this was as easy as breathing to him. The air was full of chatter as they talked to each other. They talked about the effects in the prequels, about palpatine coming back, and Darth Vader's character arc.

“Have you ever watched Star Trek?”, he asked.

“Me and my dad used to watch it when I was younger. Back when he wasn’t so busy.”, she said with a sad smile.

Max understood that. While his mom was much better than Roger, she did have to work a lot so they only got so much time together. He was so grateful that his mom made time for him, even if it was difficult for her. 

Not wanting to make Sabrina uncomfortable he asked “Original series or Next generation?”

“I watched a bit of both. Never finished but Data stole the show for me. I loved his obsession with detectives”.

“Data is indeed the best, but I really loved Mr Spock. He was actually my first crush”.

“Of course he was.”, she giggled. “Was the brains the appeal?”

“Absolutely, while he could be a little uptight, I admired how he always tried to look at things logically and solve problems through smarts… Even if the writers had a fuzzy idea on what logic actually is”.

They continued talking for a while, learning facts about one another. How Max’s favorite captain was Picard or how her favorite episode was “devil in the dark” (both for the interesting concept and how the horta was revealed to be friendly).

Max spotted some benches up ahead and decided to take a five minute break. He passed Sabrina a granola bar and some water. 

Sabrina kept speaking in between bites “I wish we got to see the baby Hortas because they could be soooo cute!”

“I concur. I thin----”

A park worker was cleaning a bench a few feet from where Sabrina was sitting. He sprayed some cleaning agent before whipping it down. Max hated it. It feels like snorting barbed wire. He covertly put his hand over his mouth and hoped beyond hope that Sabrina didn’t notice.

Eventually he noticed she wasn’t talking. Sabrina’s eyes were downcast and she was clutching to her water like a lifeline.

“You alright?” he asked. She shrugs in response. Max was starting to have a good idea of what was going on. The others had told him she had issues with sounds and noises but he was careful not to put a label on it. It could easily be some sort of trauma response. However after his previous conversation and her shutting down at the exact time he was having trouble, he was 89% sure she was like him.

“Sabrina, do you want to get out of here?” . She shrugged again. Seems she needs a bit of help.

He got up and did an exaggerated stretch. “Muscle growth will be more efficient if we push ourselves. Let's continue.” As he says this he extends a hand.

She stares at his hand for a bit, but she takes it.

---------

Sabrina slowly came out of her fugue. She hated doing that in front of people. Damnit this is the second time in two weeks! First Marc and now max? Sabrina wanted to crawl in a hole and die. Maybe he hasn’t put together what’s wrong with me yet?

“This may be a little bit sudden, but you’re autistic right?”

Fuck!

“W-why would you think that?”

Max raised an eyebrow at her. “You did sufficient enough research on me to know exactly how I know. You have an alphabetized list of what overstimulates me”.

She wraps her arms around her body and sighs, “Was I really that obvious?”

Max steers them down a more secluded path “If it makes you feel better I only figured it out today. I knew you had sensory difficulties, but I didn’t realize they were the same as mine”.

“You're not going to tell anyone right?”

“Of course not. That’s your secret to keep. However, I’m not the only neurodivergent person in the class, they’re not going to react badly”.

Sabrina wasn’t convinced but she responded, “I don’t know, I don’t want people to see as differently. As ‘lesser’ or ‘broken’ ”.

A look Sabrina can’t decipher crosses Max’s face, “Does Chloe treat you like that?” Sabrina just nodded, not meeting his eyes.

“Listen, I'm not good with people, but the class will accept you. They aren’t lying, as hard as that is to accept.”, he smiled at her.

“I hope that’s the case”. This was everything she wished for, but knowing something and believing it were different things.

Max pauses for a moment before continuing. “You're more powerful than you let yourself believe. Even if Chloe has something on you, you could ruin her”. Sabrina gives him a confused look. “You collected enough blackmail that you could have easily destroyed my life. You could do the same thing to Chloe. She needs you not the other way around”.

Sabrina never thought of it that way. She did have power. She was still scared of the fallout but maybe Sabrina didn’t have to be the only one who had to lose everything. A  dark part of her like that idea.

“Would you… help me if I did?”

“Help a fellow disabled person from being outed? By someone I personally hate? Did you have to ask?”, he grins.

She giggles in response. They both break out into laughter neither quite sure what was so funny but both glad for the company. Then a thought struck her.

“Wait, is the reason you like Spock because you’re autistic?”

“I presume the same with you and Data?”

“Fair”.

“We have got to watch star trek sometime. We can even invite Kim.”, he whispers conspiratorially “he loves watching Kirk punch people.”

 They both laugh, glad to have a fellow “freak” to talk too.

Chapter Text

Adien and Nino were crouched behind a car outside Sabrina's house. This was a very bad idea but Adrien trusted Nino, if he thought something was off, it probably was. Not to mention the promise he made to his lady. He wasn’t going to let her down.

Both Sabrina and Roger were gone, so this was the perfect time to strike. When the coast was clear they skulked around to the other side of the house. Keeping low to the ground they checked every window until they found one unlocked.

“Alright bro, I’ll go in first and check for where he keeps his computer, you keep watch.”

Adrien shakes his head “Nope, no way. If you get caught alone in a cop’s house it could be very bad. I can bluff our way out if we get caught.”, he gives Nino a grin, “besides, I can’t let you have all the fun.

“Fine, but if we get caught I told you so.”

The two of them climb in through the window. They found themselves in the living room. It was small(especially compared to what Adrien was used to) but the walls seemed to be covered in bookshelves. What little of the walls Adrian could see we painted a pale blue. There were pictures on the wall of Roger and some woman he’d never seen holding a baby. But Adrien couldn’t see any more recent pictures. weird.

Nino snaps a picture of one “Awwww baby pictures!!! If we weren’t breaking into her house I’d totally tease her with it.”

“Nino! Stay on task!”

“Oh, right.” Nino puts away his phone.

They crept around until they found Roger’s office. It was just a small room and with nothing more than a desk and chair. His computer was on the desk, along with a framed portrait of Sabrina when she was 10 or 11. Her hair was short and she wore a puffy jacket.

Nino glanced back to make sure they were alone before closing the door. “Alright all that’s left to do is hack into the computer.”

Adien puffed up his chest and gave a little bit of his Chat Noir swagger. “Step aside. I may not be Max but I can crack a mainframe no problem.”

Nino just stared at him.

And stared some more.

And more.

“What did I say something wrong?”

“It’s a personal computer, it doesn't have a mainframe.”

“ It was a figure of speech!” Adrien huffed “ don’t worry! I got this”.

---------

He very much did not ‘got this’. He got electrocuted twice, nearly knocked the monitor off the desk, and a bird had nested in his hair(don’t ask him how that happened). He could feel Plagg laughing in his jacket. His pride may never recover.

Nino separates Adrien from the computer. “Give me one second.”

Nino leaves the room and comes back with one of the pictures from out of the living room without its frame. It showed a newborn Sabrina with her family. “Watch dude this is how real hacking’s done.” He adjusts his glasses before flipping the picture over and typing the date on the back into the password box. “Voilà.” Nino says with an exaggerated bow.

Adrien rolled his eyes and started looking through the computer. The truth was Adrien was really bad at complicated computer stuff. That said he spent enough time around business people, that he could search through files. In Rogers document folder he found a subfolder titled Important_Sabrina_Stuff.   

Bingo!

Inside was a bunch of family pictures, but buried in there were prescriptions and medical records. It seems that Sabrina had seen a lot of psychiatrists in her life. Most of the stuff was a little too complex for Adrien but he got the basics. She was diagnosed with Autism when she was around 5. When she was older she was prescribed hormone blockers. Oh shit does that mean what I think it means? He checked the rest of the files to confirm his theory. 

Yes she was trans. And Autistic. And he knew she clearly didn’t want anyone to know. And he just broke into her house to learn these things without her permission.

“Well now I feel like an asshole”.

Chapter Text

Ladybug paced back and forth on a roof next to Cat Noir. Chat was(for good reason in her opinion) keeping very quiet and holding his tail in his hands. She would think it was cute if he wasn’t such an idiot. She felt like she was going to bash her head against a wall. This shouldn’t be happening. This shouldn’t be happening!!!! Why did Chat think that was a good idea!

“Let me get this straight. You stole from the police captain?

“I never took anything, I just looked”.

“You broke into his house Chat!” she threw up her arms in exasperation. “Not only that but you broke Sabrina’s trust. How would you react if someone broke into your house for secrets.” ,she silently cringed. She had done questionable things trying to get together with Adrien. It didn’t make what Chat did right, however.

“In my defense I didn’t realize it was this personal; it could have been financial troubles or Roger being involved with the mob”.

“You're not helping your case Kitty”.

“I admit I may have over stepped” she raised an eyebrow at him “okay definitely overstepped. But we need information. She was clearly worried that Chloe would blackmail her and now we can prepare for that”.

She sighed “I get it. I don’t want it, but I get it. I’ll see if I can reassure Sabrina without tipping her off. Just don’t blab about this as a civilian. I have enough on my plate without worrying about your identity”.

I swear on my life, milady”.

“You better or you'll lose all nine of them”.

-----------

Sabrina was cuddling with Aurore on a secluded bench in the park. Sabrina’s head was on the latter's shoulder with Aurore’s arms around her. Aurore kissed the top of Sabrina’s head.

This tranquil scene was broken by an insistent buzzing from Sabrina’s pocket. She sighed and pulled it out.

25 missed calls from Chloe

Sabrina fidgeted, staring at the notification. Aurore glanced over her shoulder “Is something wrong Red?”

“N-nothing! Nothing's wrong!”

Aurore just raises an eyebrow.

Sabrina sighs, “ Chloe’s being a little more insistent lately”.

Aurore sat up straighter “Are you alright? What exactly is she asking for?”

“I told you it’s fine”.  Sabrina instinctively scooted out of Aurore’s arms. Sabrina wrung her hands trying to get her emotions under control. She shouldn’t have to worry about this!

“Sabrina, I can’t help you if you won’t talk to me.” Aurore sounded hurt(?). 

Sabrina sighed, still wringing her hands, “She wants my help in a stupid and mean plan… She wants to scare Mylene by hiding spiders everywhere “.

“I assume you're not going to do that?”

“Duh, I already told Mylene, I’m just trying to ignore Chloe yelling at me”.

“I’m sorry you have to go through that”. 

“It’s alright, I appreciate you being here.”, Sabrina doesn’t look up from her lap but grabs one of Aurore’s hands. “Sorry for pulling away earlier, I needed space”

“You don’t need to explain yourself babe. You also don’t need to hold my hand if you don’t want to, I’ll understand”.

Sabrina thought about it a second before squeezing Aurore’s hand. “I want to hold your hand”.

“Would you be fine with a kiss?”

Sabrina considered this for a few seconds. Then nodded her head “Yes please”.

“That’s my girl.”

---------

Sabrina stood outside Marinette’s family bakery. She stimmed with the strap of her bag. I need to do this. I have too. Something inconceivable happened earlier today. Marinette asked for a favor. She had never done that and she was one of the people that Sabrina harmed the most. This was her chance. Her chance to make up for what she did.  She had to do everything perfectly.

Sabrina headed into the brink. Marrinette’s mother was behind the counter putting up a display piece of bread. Gulping, she walked up to the counter. “U-um miss D-dupan-Chang, Marinette invited me over for a school project, can I go up?”

 Marinette’s mother turned around with a smile but it instantly dropped when she recognized Sabrina. The older woman crossed her arms. “I won’t fall for that again, absolutely not. I ask that you leave our shop.”

Sabrina started panicking, she already fucked it up “W-w-wait, you misunderstand! She actually did ask --”

Marinette’s father lumbered out of the back. “Leave or I’ll have to call the school. Or your dad”.

Sabrina’s heart pounded in her ears, he was so much bigger than she remembered. He was nearly as big as Gorilla.  Sabrina was frozen in place. This wasn’t how this was supposed to go this wasn’t how this was supposed to ---

Marinette fell down the stairs. Everyone turns to stare at her. Marinette gives a thumbs up “I’m okay”.

Marinette quickly got back up “She’s not lying I did invite her. She’s not with Chloe anymore”.

It was like a light switch. Her parents changed from angry scowls to welcoming smiles in an instant. Sabrina thought she was going to get whiplash.

“Oh we are so sorry, I shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions”, Marinette's mom scratched the back of her neck.

“Regardless, it's always good to meet a friend of Marinette. Glad to see you're not with that Chloe girl any more”. He tried to put a large hand on her shoulder and she flinched back. Sabrina was still too panicked to want to be touched at the moment.

Marinette’s dad looked confused for a moment before moving on. “ You kids can go  up now”, he claps his hands together, “We can even get you guys snacks! Sabrina, do you have any food allergies?”

“No,” Sabrina shook her head.

“Great!” Marinette’s dad hurried back into the kitchen. Miss Dupain-Cheng  rolled her eyes and mouthed with a smile “ He always does this”, before turning back to her work on the display.

Marinette walked over to her. “Sorry about them, I forgot to tell them you were coming”,  Marinette dramatically slouched. “Come on, let's head up”. Marinette went to grab Sabrina’s hand, but stopped and just did a beckoning motion. Wait did Marinette notice? That… actually really nice. Sabrina smiled and followed her up.

------------

Once the two were up Marinette informed Sabrina of what favor she needed. As part of Marinette’s duty as class representative she was tasked with organizing a bake sale for the school. The part Sabrina was tasked with was the actual organizing bit. Getting ingredients, figuring out schedules, and appropriate prices. Sabrina was ecstatic.

She was good at this. People were hard, but numbers? Research? Those were where she excelled. Between Sabrina's work and Marinette’s existing records (Girl seriously has a chart with everyone’s schedule. Even Chloe’s. Not creepy. Not creepy at all. Totally) It only took a few hours before they were mostly done.

Eventually Marinette’s dad brings up some macarons. Sabrina’s eyes lock on the box and she struggles to wait a polite amount of time before pouncing  on them. When she finally got to try them it was exactly as she expected: they were delicious. If what they served at the bake sale was even half as good then Sabrina had no doubt it would be a success.

While they were both eating Marinette seemed to be staring off into space or whispering into her purse. “Are you alright?” Sabrina asked.

“Y-yeah t-totally fine,” Marinette scratches the back of her neck “Buy the way I think you look really good today”, She shoots Sabrina finger guns.

Sabrina cocks her head. But I look exactly the same as normal? Sabrina looks around at the walls plastered with pictures of Adrien. Wait, is she…

“Thanks, but I kinda already have a girlfriend…”

Marinette nearly fell out of her chair “W-w-wait that’s not what I meant! I mean you do look great---BUT I WASN’t FILRTING with you!!!!!”

Sabrina’s cheeks burned and she looked away. “My apologies. I misread that. That was my bad”.

“No it isn’t, Sabrina. I should have been more clear. Alya can’t follow me half the time so I wouldn’t expect you too,” Marinette paused a beat “not that you're dumb! It’s just you tend to bad in social situations and and--”

Sabrina bent over laughing “It’s alright you can put down the shovel. You don’t need to dig yourself any deeper.”

Marinette let out a relieved sigh, “I really need to be more careful with compliments”.

After they both finish with their snack Sabrina goes to get back to work before Marinette speaks up “Why do you do this Sabrina”.

“What do you mean?” Sabrina cocks her head at Marinette as if looking at a different angle will make the question clearer.

“Why do you do favors for people? I get that you want to make up for what you did with Chloe but most of the class has forgiven you by now. You understand that right?”

Sabrina looked away. Anger boiled in her chest.  She wanted to scream at Marinette for lying to her. For getting Sabrina’s hopes up for something that could never be. But she held her tongue. Marinette didn’t know what was wrong with Sabrina.  Maybe she thinks she’s genuine but she doesn’t know what a freak I am.

Marinette got up and walked over to Sabrina. “We’re not Chloe, you don’t need to prove you deserve to be treated like a person”. Marinette pauses and puts her hand on Sabrina’s shoulder “And we’re a pretty accepting bunch. No matter what Chloe is holding over your head we’ll be willing to hear you out”.

Everyone keeps saying that, but do they really mean it? I really hope they do. “I’ll think about it”. she says sincerely.

“That’s all I can ask”.

After a few seconds Sabrina added, “It’s not just because of Chloe”.

Marinette patiently waited as Sabrina worked up the courage to continue.

“I hurt people. Especially you… Juleka,” Sabrina shook her head trying not to recall that memory. “I collected blackmail, I helped in Chloe’s schemes, I even broke into your house. I’m not innocent in all this”.

Sabrina wrapped her arms around herself and continued. “I’m not good with people… or emotions in general. But I am good at helping people. So I thought that If I help people as much as I hurt them I could balance the scales. Reach net zero. I could have physical proof that the world isn’t better off without me”.

Marinette drew her into a hug. “Sabrina, you don’t need to prove you deserve to exist. I know what it’s like to have doubt eat you up inside, but things can get better. I’m sorry that Chloe treats you like you don’t matter but we aren’t her”.

“How can you forgive me? I hurt you and haven’t done anything to fix it. Anything I did do was a selfish attempt to assuage my own guilt”. Sabrina struggled to keep the bitter tone out of her voice; she wanted Marinette to understand why she didn’t matter.

“I won’t lie to you. I would have taken a lot longer to forgive you if you hadn’t helped so many of our classmates. But even if I didn’t forgive you I still wouldn’t want you to disappear or be abused by Chloe”.

“Why”, Sabrina struggled not to sob.

“Because I don’t like watching people get hurt”. Marinette hugged her tighter.

--------------

After another hour of work Marinette sees Sabrina off. As she stands outside the bakery Marinette can’t help but think. I hope that worked.

Tiki poked her head up “It will be alright Marinette, things will work out”.

“I just want her to trust us”, she sighs.

“It will take time but she’ll get there. Even if it doesn’t seem like it, every kind act brings you closer to your goal. Like how a single raindrop seems inconsequential but a million can carve a river”.

“Yeah but it sucks waiting, I’m not good at being patient!”, she dramatically hung her head. Tiki giggled.

She quickly hid Tiki as she heard her father walk out. He looked strangely serious as he walked up to her.

“Marinette, you would tell me if something was going on with your friend right?”

“Of course. Why do you ask Papa”.

“It’s just she seemed nervous earlier and wanted to make sure everything was okay. She even flinched when I tried to touch her”. He paused for a moment and added “Is anyone hurting her?”

Marinette sometimes forgot how perceptive her parents were. No matter how well she hid being ladybug, one thing she could hide from them was her worries. Marinette pondered what to do. She could lie and say that Sabrina was just nervous, or bring up how she wasn’t used to people being nice to her. No he would know there’s more going on and be more curious. 

The more she thought about it the more she realized that this could be an opportunity. It was worth a shot.

“Chloe’s… not good to her.”

He furrowed his brow “How not good?”

“She’s controlling and forces Sabrina to do everything for her. I can’t prove it, but I think Sabrina is being blackmailed”.

“Do you think Roger could do anything if we told him?”

“I doubt it. Not as long as Bourgeois is mayor”.

Papa put a hand on Marinette’s shoulder “I can’t promise it will do anything, but I’m going to make some calls. If anything changes please tell me or your mother, alright? You shouldn’t have to be the one who deals with this, you're just a kid”.

Her dad couldn’t possibly know just how wrong he was. How much really did weigh on her shoulders. Despite this she still hugged him “Thank you Papa”.

All this time she was trying to get Sabrina to open up and trust others. Maybe Marinette had something to learn about that herself.