Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Emilie snuck down into the crypt one night to practice using the power of the Peacock miraculous. Gabriel had told her a few months ago that they would use the power of the miraculous for good. They’d fight crime in Paris, study the ancient origins, and get to know the Kwamis.

Emilie made sure the 11-year-old Adrien was in bed. Gabriel was on a solo business trip to promote his brand in the US, and Nathalie was working in her bedroom. So it was the perfect time to use the miraculous.

She started with a simple sentimonster. She envisioned her childhood pet and brought it to life. She could control it and make it do what she wanted it to. She then released the sentimonster from existence and made a more complex one.

This one was a carbon copy of her sister. She was able to talk and do everything on her own, but as Emilie was trying to control her sister, she felt herself weakening. In response, she ripped the miraculous off of her collar and went back up to the main floor of the house. She turned miraculous to the back side and saw several cracks on the back of it.

“Dusuu, do you know how this happened?” Emilie asked, showing the Kwami floating next to her the cracks in the miraculous.

“I wish I did but my memory was blacked out. And so was Nooroo’s.”

“Thank you. I’ll look in the grimoire. Nathalie’s already deciphered some of it, and hopefully, the page about damaged miraculous has been translated.”

Emilie found the brown book on one of the shelves and flipped through it until she found the page she was looking for.

“Perfect!”

She looked down at the two pages before her. The page wasn’t translated but there were illustrations describing the situation.

“According to these illustrations, the person who yields a broken or damaged miraculous will suffer dizzy spells and if use continues, the illness could be fatal,” Emilie sighed

“I don’t know for sure. Kwamis aren’t allowed to know how to read the grimoire, but that sounds accurate. We were told using a damaged miraculous is very dangerous.”

“Did you know about this?”

“No I didn’t, but I bet Gabriel did.”

“I’ll have to talk to him when he gets home. But for now, I’m putting this away.”

“Good idea. Don’t mind me, the life inside the miraculous is… well… you know since I’m damaged and all.”

“It’s scary in there. I understand. Don’t worry I know you’re strong and you can handle this.”

“Thanks, Emilie. You’re amazing.”

Emilie returned the damaged miraculous to the safe and left the atelier like nothing happened,. Because of her weakened state, she went straight to bed.

Chapter Text

A few days later Gabriel returned home from his trip to the US and immediately went to sleep. (that’s jet lag for you) Emilie would need to keep quiet about the miraculous for a little while longer. She has already filled Nathalie in on what happened. It’s been a week and she already had one dizzy spell. Thankfully, Adrien wasn’t around to see it and the last thing on Emilie’s mind is to concern her son who was almost twelve. So, Nathalie stayed close by, ready to catch her boss’s wife at any moment and bring her to a couch if needed.

Right now Emilie and Nathalie were in the kitchen making dinner. It wasn’t often that they would cook because they obviously had people to do that. (the life of being rich) But Emilie insisted that she cook the meal since Gabriel was home and Adrien’s birthday was coming up.

“Do you think he knew about the miraculous being damaged?” Emilie asked Nathalie as she was stirring the soup that was simmering on the stove.

“I definitely didn’t, but now that I look back, there were some red flags. Especially since he did not allow us to hold it.”

“What do you mean?”

Nathalie let out a sad sigh “I kinda knew that he was hiding something from us. When I asked about examining it. He told me that he would. He thought that if I have any knowledge on the miraculous, and it being damaged I would warn you. But now he’s asking me to translate the grimoire. I don’t know”

“How interesting,” Emilie said sarcastically

“And he didn’t lock the safe when he left. It’s like he wanted you to find the miraculous.”

“Like he wants to kill me?”

“Maybe. Have you seen any signs about how he treats you?”

“Yeah. He barely talks to me or Adrien. He is always in his office working on whatever he is working on and he yells at me whenever I don’t do something that he wants me to do.”

“I see.”

Emilie stared into the soup. As much as she doesn’t want to believe it, it does make sense.

“He hid a lot from us. Even back in university.” Emilie gulped.

“Yeah. And now it’s gotten worse. Do you really think he was in the US promoting his business?”

“It definitely wasn’t the only thing he was doing. Gosh, he’s so messed up why didn’t I see this? He’s rude to me, he pretends that Adrien doesn’t exist. What next? dying?"

Right as she said it Emilie nearly bumped her head on the counter. Nathalie was able to catch her just in time, and she brought her to the kitchen table where she can comfortably sit in a chair.

“Gabriel is up to something,” Nathalie observed

“No shit Sherlock.”

“Language! Adrien may not be around but he is home!”

“Sorry, I just–”

“No worries. Talk to Gabriel when he wakes up, we’ll figure this out together.”

Emilie nodded her head. Nathalie got up from the table and stirred the soup, making sure the bottom wasn’t burning.

“Gabriel,” Emilie asked as she stepped into her husband’s office the next day. “I have a question. It’s about the miraculous.”

Gabriel lifts his head up from his work and looks at his wife, who is at Nathalie’s desk organizing her paperwork.

“What about them.”

“I was wondering. I picked up the Peacock miraculous, I saw many cracks on the back of it. Were you aware of that?”

“I don’t seem I was. Did you put it on?”

“Yes, I did.”

“We’ll see what happens. Hopefully, the effects are not too bad.”

Emilie knew he was lying. He’s read the Grimoire. Nathalie has been translating pages for him. He obviously knows the miraculous is damaged.

“I’ll leave you be. Goodnight."

“Goodnight.”

Emilie leaves the office and clicks the door shut. Nathalie was standing in the foyer by the staircase waiting for her.

“He’s lying,” Emilie” said

“No shit.”

“Gosh, why did I do this? I shouldn’t have put the miraculous on. I should have known–”

“Hey!” Nathalie whispered “You didn’t do anything wrong!”

Emilie felt her face heat up when Nathalie wrapped her arms around Emilie and she pulled her into a hug.

“I feel like I did and now I could die.”

“You’re not dying. I’ll make sure you don’t. If that asshole you call your ‘husband’ doesn’t see the signs of your sickness and refuses to take you to a doctor if you get worse I will.”

“Thank you, Nat. For being my friend for all this time.”

Nathalie looks around the mansion and turns her head back to Emilie.

“Looks like Gabriel is going to be up all night,” Nathalie whispered “Wanna have a slumber party? Like old times?”

“Isn’t it a little weird for two grown women to have a slumber party?”

“We’ll sleep on the floor and watch a movie. You can’t be alone right now. I can see it in your eyes.”

“Alright fine.”

Chapter Text

It’s been six months. Emilie is currently being forced to train with a damaged miraculous, causing her illness to worsen. Gabriel continues to claim that he is unaware of the side effects of using the peacock miraculous but Emilie and Nathalie both know what’s going on.

Adrien is starting to see the changes too. He may be 12, but that boy is smart and observant. It was a Saturday afternoon. Audrey Bourgeois was planning on coming to the mansion to conduct business with Gabriel, and Nathalie emailed Andre asking if his wife would mind bringing Chloé along. Chloé and Adrien have been friends since the dawn of time. The Agreste mansion has always been a safe haven for Chloé since Emilie and Nathalie are the only parent figures in her life who are actually nice to her. Andre tries his best but Audrey is just plain old mean.

The doorbell rang and Gabriel greeted Audrey. Chloé ran into the mansion and threw her arms around Emilie and Nathalie

“Hi, Chloé. It’s been so long!” Emilie said “Adrien is–”

“I’m right here,” Adrien yelled as he slid down the railing.

“Adrien!” Emilie hissed “I’m okay if you do that but your dad is right over there and if he sees you–”

“It’s fine. He’s talking business and he acts like I don’t exist anyway.”

Emilie let out a sigh. Gabriel's treatment of Adrien is getting worse by the day.

“I’m sorry, kiddo. Why don’t you and Chloé go upstairs and hang out? I’m going to help Nathalie with some cleaning.”

“Okay.”

Adrien leads his friend up the stairs and into his room. Adrien spends most of his time in his room. Mainly because Gabriel demands him to play the piano all the time but when he isn’t in his room, he’s out with his mom.

“Your mom doesn’t seem like herself,” Chloé observed. “She seems to be getting sick.”

“I noticed. It’s been going on for the last few months. I don’t know what happened or when my mom will see a doctor.”

“Do you think it’s cancer?”

“I don’t know. I asked Nathalie who’s done the research, and she says it’s definitely not cancer.”

Chloé nods her head. She picks up one of the basketballs and throws it into the net. “What do you think it is?”

“I first thought it was a cold, but one usually doesn’t get dizzy. My mom has been getting dizzy and passing out. My dad tells me not to worry about it.” Adrien catches the ball and throws it back into the net. Chloé sees it and they repeat the action.

“The old ‘don’t worry about something you should worry about’ treatment. My mom has done the same thing when my dad gets all worked up over something. Or When they fight”

“Wow. Well isn’t school an escape for you? You actually get to go.”

“Not really. The kids don't like me very much. I mean… I guess I was a bit mean but sometimes, I don’t even know what comes about me. I particularly mean to this one girl named Marinette and I don’t know why.”

“Marinette. She sounds nice.”

“She is. She’s super nice but I don’t know. I think I might be jealous of her ‘perfect’ life. Her dad owns a bakery and their food is amazing! Maybe it’s because she has parents that love and support her and… I don’t.”

“Maybe you can talk to her. Apologize for being mean and maybe she can be your friend.”

“That’s an idea.”

“I wish I can go to school so I’m not trapped in this giant inferno of a home.”

“You should convince your parents. You’ll be thirteen next year.”

“Yeah, I know. My mom would totally be up for it but my dad… well he wants me to stay here even though I don’t exist in his world.”

“That’s utterly ridiculous!”

“Things have been getting worse. Since my mom has been ill, she and my dad are fighting more. He says things that are just… brutal. I hear them all the time. They yell and… I don’t know.”

“Hey, you’re talking to someone that also has an abusive parent. My parents fight constantly and my mom is already forcing beauty standards on me and I’m not even a teenager. Be glad you don’t have a mom that forces you to wear makeup and be slim all the time.”

“Be glad you don’t have a parent that doesn’t know you exist.”

The two let out a laugh and jump onto the couch. Adrien grabs the remote and turns on the TV.

“Do you wanna watch something?” Adrien asks

“Sure.”

“Gabriel, listen to me,” Emilie shouted later “This miraculous is hurting me I can’t use it anymore.”

“Are you sure it’s the miraculous?” Gabriel asked

“Yes I am sure, I looked it up in the grimoire six months ago!”

“Nathalie didn’t translate past the section about the Kwamis.”

“I didn’t need a translator.” Emilie grabbed the book from Nathalie’s desk and turned to the page about the damaged miraculous. “There are pictures. Anyone with half a brain could of–”

Gabriel slapped Emilie hard across the face. It stung for a whole minute.

“How DARE you slap me like that!”

Gabriel ignored her and returned to his work without a care in the world. Emilie stormed out of the office and sat on the stairs as tears started to fall down her face.

“...Mom?” Adrien asked “Are you… okay?”

“No, I’m not. Your dad and I had another fight.”

Emilie turned to face her son. Adrien’s eyes widen

“Did dad… hit you?” Adrien asked.

“He slapped me.”

“Mom. It’s getting worse. You’re sick, Dad hates both of us. Why don’t you, me and Nathalie just run away? We can still be in Paris. I can go to school with Chloé. I hear that the kids in her class are super nice. Especially Marinette whose dad owns that bakery across the street from the park.”

“I would love for you to go to school. I honestly would. If I could defy Gabriel’s demands then I would. But… I can’t.”

“I understand,” Adrien sighed “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight Adrien.”

Chapter Text

About six months have passed. Emilie can barely leave her bed but Gabriel still demands she uses the miraculous. When Emilie needs to leave her bed she uses a wheelchair to get around. Nathalie grows to hate Gabriel more and more because of his treatment of Emilie.

Nathalie has moved into the mansion and Emilie has moved out of Gabriel’s room due to the insane amount of arguing. Emilie’s arms now have visible marks from the number of times Gabriel has touched her. Gabriel doesn’t touch Adrien but uses his words to manipulate him. He had told Adrien that Emilie was okay even though that was a lie and he knows that.

Adrien was in his room with Emilie and Nathalie organizing his closet and getting rid of clothes that were officially too small for him. The young Agreste can see the marks on Emilie’s wrists, and he looks at his mother in concern.

“Is Dad still hitting you?” Adrien asks

“Yes, he is,” Emilie says dryly “But I have some good news for you.”

“What is it?”

“After that conversation I had with you a few months ago I had a conversation with Nathalie. We are about halfway to our goal of moving out of this hell hole and finding our own place.”

“Really?”

“Yes, but you can not tell anyone. Everyone you talk to unfortunately has a connection to Gabriel and they will tell him.”

“But not Chloé.”

“She won’t say a word but her mother will get the secret out of her one way or another.”

Adrien nods. He picks up a shirt and puts it in the ‘too small’ box. Nathalie was going to donate all of Adrien’s old clothes to charity. Gabriel insisted he took them for his fashion line, but Nathalie got her way, even if it took yelling at her boss.

“I think we finished,” Nathalie said as she put the final pair of pants into the ‘too small’ box. “I’ll load these into the car and will take them to the charity place tomorrow. Adrien, can you wheel your mother to her room for the night? I’ll be there in five minutes.”

“Okay.”

Adrien stands and pushes his mom’s chair into her bedroom. Emilie guides herself into her bed and pulls the covers on top of her.

“Adrien! Quickly before you leave I have to tell you something.”

“Okay. What’s up?”

Emilie opens her bedside table drawer and pulls out a small box. Adrien opens it and finds a ring. Exactly like the one his cousin Félix has been so interested in.

“This ring belongs in my family. The Graham De Vanily family. Your father has the other one. When I die, I want you to get that ring from him and return it to your aunt.”

“Okay,” Adrien sniffed trying to hold back his tears. “I’ll do that.”

Adrien lets his tears fall and he tightly wraps his arms around his mother.

“I don’t want you to go.” he sobbed “I don’t want to be stuck here without you.”

“I know. Nathalie will do everything in her power to protect you and get you out of here. I promise.”

“But I don’t want you to go.” Adrien cries

“I know baby. I know.”

Nathalie knocks on the door. Adrien stands up and leaves the room after hugging Nathalie goodnight.

“Did you give it to him?” Nathalie asked after closing the door and sitting down on the bed.

“Yeah, I did. He’s really torn up.”

Nathalie let out a sigh as she laid back on the pillow next to Emilie

“We have to get you to help.”

“I know. But we have to get out of here first.”

“By the time we reach our goal, you may not be here anymore.”

“Maybe I can talk to my sister. Explain the situation and ask if she can lend some money.”

“Maybe.”

Nathalie moved to lie on her side and propped her head up to get a proper look at Emilie.

“Nat. I don’t want to die. I feel like there’s so much more that I want to do. I want to live the rest of my life with you and Adrien and we're all happy and carefree, and Adrien goes to school and hangs out with friends every day after school and stuff.”

“Em, I just want you to be happy. Seeing you suffer like this hurts. All I want is for you to get better and I want to do everything in my power to help with that. I don’t think I’ll be able to handle losing you.”

Emilie felt her face heat up as Nathalie got closer. She turns to her side not wanting Nathalie to see her red face.

Nathalie woke up in the middle of the night to violent coughing. She turned to her left and saw that Emilie was not in bed, but her wheelchair was still by the bedside. The bathroom light wasn’t turned on and the coughing was not coming from there.

Nathalie crawled across the bed and saw that Emilie was on the floor lying on her back. She quickly got out of bed and rushed to slowly lift Emilie’s back off the floor.

“Are you okay? Nathalie asked, “Give me a thumbs up for yes or a thumbs down for no.”

Emilie gave Nathalie a thumbs down as she let out a violent cough.

“We’re getting you to a doctor. Let’s get you in your wheelchair. I’ll wake Adrien and call Andre to ask if he can take him while we head to the hospital.”

Emilie gave a thumbs up in acknowledgment. Nathalie guided her to her wheelchair and wheeled her out of the bedroom. She went into Adrien’s room and gave him a shake to wake up.

“Nat? What is it?”

“I’m taking your mom to the hospital, and I’m not leaving you here. Chloé’s dad is going to keep an eye on you. You can see your friend and you can come to visit us when everything is better again.”

“Okay.”

Adrien shuffled out of bed and put on a sweater and slippers. Nathalie grabbed his emergency bag that she had packed for everyone in case they had to flee the house. Today just happened to be the day.
Nathalie assisted Emilie into the car and then drove off the hotel to drop Adrien off.

“I’m sorry it’s so late,” Nathalie told Andre as she brought Adrien’s bag into the building.

“No worries. I understand your situation completely. He’s in good hands.”

“Thank you.”

Nathalie said goodbye to Adrien, got back in the car, and sped off to the hospital.

Chapter Text

“Good evening and how can I assist you?” The nurse behind the counter asked

“I need to see a doctor,” Nathalie said

“What for?”

My friend here has been getting these dizzy spells for about a year now. She continued to grow worse and now it has gotten to the point where she is violently coughing and can not move by herself at all.”

“I see. Take these forms and fill them out. Someone will call you back soon.”

Nathalie filled out the forms and returned them to the counter. About half an hour later they were called back.

“Hello, ladies. My name is Dr. Jean and I’ll be your doctor. The doctor said, “How is the patient feeling?”

“I’m feeling… okay,” Emilie replied

“Can you please explain to me what is going on?”

Emilie explains everything that is happening to the best of her ability without revealing the use of the miraculous.

“Okay. Let’s run a few tests and see what’s going on.”

About an hour later, the doctor returned with the results. Nathalie who was sitting on the edge of the hospital bed grabbed Emilie’s hand and squeezed it. When she squeezed it back she felt a tint of pink run across her face.

“Unfortunately I was not able to link your tests to anything, but there is someone here who might be able to help.”

Dr. Jean moved out of the way and an old, small man walked into the room.

“Leave us,” He instructed and the doctor left.

The doctor took off his lab coat to reveal a red and white Hawaiian shirt and khaki shorts.

“Hello. My name is Wang Fu. I am the guardian of the miracle box which holds the two miraculous that I’ve been missing. The butterfly and the peacock.”

Emilie and Nathalie look at each other and then back at the man.

“I’ve come to tell you that your symptoms are directly linked to studies that have been conducted hundreds of years ago involving damaged miraculous. Please discontinue the use of the miraculous. Confiscate it and bring it to me. Do you know where the butterfly miraculous is?”

“I do,” Nathalie told Fu. “I will bring both to you as soon as possible.”

“Good. For now, I would like Emilie to use these remedies listed on this piece of paper right here.”

“Thank you.” Emilie sighed as she was handed the paper.

The guardian put his lab coat back on and left the room leaving Emilie and Nathalie to their selves.

“Do you really think this will work?” Emilie asked

“I hope so. He knew what he was talking about. Now I just have to get the miraculous both of them and bring them to him. But he did not tell us where his address is.”

“It’s right here on this paper. It’s written in Chinese.”

“Good. I think our plan can officially start.”

Chapter Text

A few days later Emilie was discharged from the hospital and she arrived home with Nathalie and Adrien. Nathalie wheeled Emilie upstairs to her room and assisted her to her bed.

“Are you ready to make the call?” Nathalie asked.

“Yes, I am.”

Emilie dialed her sister’s number and put the phone on speaker.”

“Emilie?” Amelie asked, “Is that you?”

“Hello, sister.”

Amelie squeals from excitement from the other end of the line. “How have you been? It’s been forever!”

“I’ve been doing okay. But listen I have to tell you something.”

Amelie’s tone immediately became more serious. “What’s the matter?”

Emilie told her sister everything about the miraculous, Gabriel’s manipulation, and the hospital visit.”

“Colt was given that miraculous, but I’m afraid it’s already too late for him.”

“What do you mean?”

“The hospital put him on hospice.”

Emilie gasped in shock.

“I’m so sorry.”

“Don’t be. He’s an asshole anyway. I’ll finally be free, but Félix will be torn up.”

“You need to do everything in your power to protect him and make sure he doesn’t fall into Gabriel’s manipulation.”

“I will. And…” Amelie took a deep breath “You need money to get yourselves out of there?”

“Can you… do that for us?”

“Of course. I’m married to a billionaire who is going to die. I can give you as much as you need.”

“Thank you so much,” Nathalie smiled “You’re the best.”

“I wish you two luck. Bye for now.” Amelie hung up

Emilie put her phone down and Nathalie immediately gave her a hug.

“Yes!” she squealed which is very unlike her. “We can finally get out of this hell hole!”

“I know it’s so exciting!”

Nathalie planted a kiss on Emilie’s cheek and grabbed her hands.

“The money won’t be transferred for a few days but we can start packing now.”

“Yes let's do that,” Emilie smiled all flustered.

Emilie and Nathalie knocked on Adrien’s bedroom door after discussing how they would tell the news.

“Adrien, it’s us,” Nathalie called out

“Come in,” Adrien answered

Nathalie opens the door and pushes Emilie into the thirteen-year-old’s room.

“We have news,” Emilie started as Nathalie and Adrien sat down on the couch in his room.

“What’s the news?”

“Your aunt is going to give us the rest of the money we need and after that, we will be able to leave.”

“Really?”

“Really.”

Adrien leapt from the couch and hugged his mother and mother figure

“This is such good news!”

“And… we have one more thing to share?”

“What is that?”

“We’ve decided that it’s high time you go to school,” Nathalie told him

“Really?”

“Yes. You’ll be starting 9th grade with the rest of the students. You start in two weeks at Collège Françoise Dupont.”

“Thank you thank you thank you!” Adrien squealed as he gave Emilie and Nathalie a tighter squeeze “I’m so excited!”

“We knew you’d be. Now I want you to start packing, but discreetly. Put your things somewhere Gabriel will never find them.”

“I will.”

“Good. And we’re moving to a nice little apartment right by the park. Your room will have a balcony.”

“Yes, that’s like what I always wanted!”

“We’re gonna go now. I want you to start packing now.”

“Okay.”

Nathalie stood up and pushed Emilie out of the room and back to hers.

“Nat,” Emilie whispered

“Em, what is it?”

“What if this doesn’t work?”

“It will work. Fu knew what he was talking about, and we will get out of here. Your arms will heal along with your illness.”

“I know, but… I’m still scared”

“Me too. We all are, but we can and will get through this together. Okay?”

“Okay.”

Emilie wrapped her arms around Nathalie and buried her face into her chest. Nathalie stroked the loose strands of Emilie’s hair behind her ears as her face turned into a tomato.

A few days later the money from Amelie was transferred to Emilie and Nathalie and they were ready to make their big escape. Until the former owners officially move out the place Nathalie and Emilie found the three of them have to stay in a hotel. Thankfully, Andre was able to lend out a room that was perfect for their needs and with no charge since they were friends with the family.

Everything was packed during the day when Gabriel went to a conference on the other side of the city. Once Gabriel had gone to bed, Nathalie wheeled Emilie out of the car and assisted her into her seat. She ran back in to wake up Adrien. Once Adrien was awake The two of them were almost down the stairs when a voice boomed;

“Where do you think you’re going?”

“Gabriel, we were just… going out for a night stroll. Adrien can’t sleep.”

“Oh really. Adrien doesn’t have problems falling asleep.”

“You would know if you paid attention to me for a second during the past year!” Adrien yelled, “Today Nathalie is trying a new method with me to help me get to sleep.”

Gabriel ignored Adrien and turned his attention back to his assistant

“What is my wife doing in your car?”

“I’m… taking everyone to the park.”

Gabriel started walking down the stairs, and Nathalie and Adrien took a few steps back.

“Run. I got this,” Nathalie whispered to Adrien

Adrien sped out of the mansion and into the car. Nathalie saw the headlights flash indicating that the car is locked.

“What have you been doing behind my back?” Gabriel fumed

“I haven’t done a single thing behind your back.”

“Then explain why my wife is suddenly getting better from her illness?”

Nathalie froze. She had no idea how to answer this question without lying.

“I knew it. You took her to get help didn’t you.”

“I did what I had to do. She deserves to live in this world. Her son needs her, the world needs her… I… need her.”

Gabriel charges Nathalie with an old broom he found. Thankfully she dodges the attack with a closed umbrella.

“You just want Emilie to yourself!”

“No, I don’t! She wants this too! She hates you because you’re trying to kill her!”

Gabriel lets out a hysterical laugh. It was sickening. He ran up and tried to hit her with the broom. Nathalie blocked him with the umbrella pushing their impromptu weapons together creating a force. Nathalie took the chance to put both of Gabriel’s hands behind his back and grab the silver ring off of his finger.

“You really think I’m trying to kill her?”

“Yes, I do. You’re ordering her to use a miraculous that is killing her. You know the effects it has, but you still force her to use it. And I saw the marks on her arms. You’re hurting her in more ways than you imagine. She hates you and I’m taking her away from you and your bullshit.”

Nathalie takes the chance to run out of the house. The car unlocks and Nathalie runs straight into it locking the door again and speeding off.

Since Nathalie knows Gabriel will be following them she takes the longest way possible to the hotel.

“Um… guys?” Adrien questions from the back seat “Who is that guy following us?”

Nathalie looks out her mirrors to see a man dressed in black and purple. The mask he is wearing covers his entire head only leaving the skin around his mouth and nostrils free.

“Shit. It’s the butterfly miraculous!” Nathalie whispers

“The mirac-who-what?”

“We will explain everything when we finally get to the hotel. But first, we need to lose him. Gabriel is following us transformed as Hawkmoth.”

“That’s Father?!?!?!”

“Unfortunately.”

Adrien was shocked at this discovery. He starts tensing up and his breathing becomes more shallow.

“Nat this way,” Emilie shouted discreetly pointing to a hiding place.

Nathalie steered the car into the spot and turned off the headlights. Thankfully the car is back and it blends in perfectly with the surroundings.”

“What was that?” Adrien asked after calming down, “What are you not telling me?”

Nathalie looked at Emilie who let out a heavy sigh.

“Adrien,” Emilie sighed “It’s time we explain everything.”

Chapter Text

Nathalie put the car back into drive after she was sure that they lost Hawkmoth and made their way to the hotel. After Andre checked them into their room Adrien took a seat on the couch.

“What did you want to tell me?” Adrien asked

“Okay,” Emilie said taking a deep breath “About twenty years ago, Your father, Nathalie, and I went on a safari trip together after graduating from university. Nathalie and I thought it would be a fun way to explore the world, but we found something while we were there. Two jewels. One shaped like moth wings and one shaped like peacock feathers. Immediately, Gabriel wanted to know more. We always enjoyed how curious he was, but his interests started to consume him. Nathalie asked if she could use the peacock miraculous, and he said no.”

“I didn’t think of it that much at first,” Nathalie remarked “And we just continued minding our own business. Until one day about a year before you were born, he asked me to translate the page in the book we found called the grimoire on how to make sentimonsters. That was the first time Emilie used the miraculous. We used it to create you.”

“I’m a… sentimonster? I’m not a real human being?”

“No no no,” Emilie assured him “You are a real human being. You were created because your aunt and I couldn’t have children. Your cousin is the same way. But you don’t feel different knowing this do you?”

“No I don’t.”

“Each sentimonster comes with an amok. It is a feather that holds your existence. Yours is in the ring I gave you. Félix’s is in this one,” Emilie held up the ring Nathalie took from Gabriel’s finger. “Protect it with all of your might because Gabriel will be after it.”

“I will. And Félix is a sentimonster too?”

“Yes. And Tomoe Tsurugi’s daughter too.”

“Kagami? From Fencing? She doesn’t seem like one.”

“Unfortunately that is the case.”

“Okay continue with the story.”

Emilie sighed “So I used the miraculous. Your uncle Colt used it along with Kagami’s late father. Kagami’s father died first not long after she was born, Your uncle Colt is going to die any minute now, and me… I was supposed to die but Nathalie got help. It wasn’t easy. I continued using the miraculous. I used it once on my free will because I thought it would be fun to try it out and see what I could do without your father ordering me around. But, Gabriel wanted me to find it. When he found out I used it he ordered me to continue my use of the dangerous jewel. He wanted to kill me faster but now he can’t. He can’t stop me and he never will!”

Adrien sat in silence over all of this. He knew his father was an asshole but evil? That just puts a new twist on this.

“I’m going to bed,” Adrien says “It’s late.”

“Okay, sweetie. Goodnight,” Emilie cooed.

The next day Adrien found Chloé in the dining room for breakfast. He really needs a friend right now.

“Are you okay?” Chloé asked

“Not really. I just found out that I was created from the use of a magical jewel.”

Chloé dropped her fork onto her plate and looked at Adrien dead in the eyes “What?!?!”

“Yeah.”

Adrien explained everything he heard last night to Chloé who listened carefully.

“You’re serious right?” Chloé asked

“I wish I wasn’t,

“Shit.”

“I know right? And… wow you don’t usually swear.”

“I know. But this is just a lot.”

“Yeah. Imagine what it’s like for me to find out that your father is potentially a supervillain.”

“How can I be there for you?”

“I don’t know to be honest. Just you being here and knowing this is enough for me.”

“I’m always here for you even when I act like a total bitch sometimes.”

Adrien laughs. “Thanks.”

Chapter Text

Two weeks later, Nathalie, Emilie, and Adrien move into their two-bedroom apartment across the street from the park. Adrien gets a room to himself and has so many ideas on how to decorate it. Emilie and Nathalie share the other room, and with how close they’ve been the last almost two years they’re used to it.

Adrien’s schoolbag is all packed, and he is ready to go to his first day of school. Before he ran out the door his mom stopped him.

“Wait. I need to take a picture of you!”

“Mom please!”

“And Nathalie is dropping you off today.”

“I can walk to school.”

“I know,” Nathalie stated “But with Gabriel still loose I’m going to drive you to and from. I don’t want you to be alone.”

“Deal.”

Emilie snapped a few photos of her son and then Nathalie and Adrien were out the door.

“Have fun,” Nathalie said as Adrien got out of the car.

“Thanks.”

Nathalie didn’t want to drive away until Adrien was inside the school. Adrien was halfway up the stairs when he saw an old man in a Hawaiian shirt and khaki shorts struggling to pick up his cane. It seems that he’s fallen. Adrien rushed to the man, handed his cane to him, and helped him stand up.

“Thank you,” the old man said

“You're welcome. Enjoy your day.”

“I will. Thank you.”

Adrien ran up the stairs and into the classroom that was assigned to his schedule. Now the question was where to sit. Sitting in the back meant you were anti-social and sitting in the front meant you were trying too hard. There were no empty seats except for a seat up front next to a kid wearing orange headphones on his head. He took a seat next to him.

“You must be Adrien Agreste,” Headphone kid remarked. He had dark skin and wore a blue T-shirt.

“Yeah, I am."

“The name’s Nino. Nice to meet you, dude.”

“Nice to meet you too.”

“Adrien! You’re here!” Chloé squealed “I can’t believe it.”

“Yeah. I’m here. I’m a bit nervous.”

“Don’t be. Everyone here is super nice you’ll love them.”

A girl with blue hair tied into pigtails walked into the classroom with a box of macaroons. She took a seat behind Adrien.

“Are those macaroons?” Adrien asked after the girl settled into her seat.

“Yeah. My dad baked them fresh this morning.”

“You must be Marinette. Chloé has told me so much about you.”

“She has?”

“Yeah. She told me that your dad is known for his delicious macaroons.”

“Try one and see for yourself.” Adrien took a macaroon from the box and took a bite

“Wow! These are AMAZING!” Adrien said after swallowing the bite of macaroon

“Thanks. Oh, what’s your name by the way?”

“Oh. Sorry. I’m Adrien Agreste.”

“It’s nice to meet you.”

Adrien turned back to Chloé.

“I’m assuming you apologized like you said you would a year ago.”

“I did. It’s taking everyone some time to gain their trust back, especially Marinette, but I think she’s warming up to me.”

“I’m glad.”

“Alright class,” The teacher said as she walked into the classroom. She wore a pale blue suit and her ginger hair was tied into a bun. “I’m Miss Bustier and I will be your teacher this year. Now let's get started.”

At lunch that day Adrien sat with Nino, Marinette, and Alya who is also new to the school. Adrien had never had school cafeteria food before and was excited to try everything.

“So how are you liking school so far Adrien?” Marinette asked him

“It’s different. I’ve never really been around other kids my age unless they were affiliated with my father.

“Like Chloé?”

“Yeah, and a girl from the fencing classes I take here. Her name is Kagami.”

“Kagami Tsurugi. The daughter of the person who owns Tsurugi Industries,” Nino said

“Wow, your dad only allowed you to hang out with famous people,” Alya observed

“Yup. Until now!”

Adrien didn’t want to tell the people he had just met about what was happening at home. Emilie had always told him to watch out for untrustworthy people.

The school bell rang marking the end of lunch Adrien got up to throw his trash out and gathered his things.

“What do you guys have next?” Adrien asked

“I have PE,” Marinette answered.

“Me too.”

“I’ll see you guys later,” Alya waved as Nino ran out of the cafeteria

“So, where’s the stadium?”

“It’s a bit of a hike. It’s not exactly at the school–”

“Kim!” someone yelled

Adrien’s attention directed him to where the shouting came from

“I’m so gonna get you,” A boy with a skull t-shirt said”

“Ivan,” A teacher yelled “We do not promote violence in this school. Please go to the principal’s office.”

Ivan crumples up the paper and walks out of the cafeteria in a huff.

“We… better hurry!” Adrien instructed

“Alright,” Mr. D’Argencourt instructed “Since it’s the first day back, we will be playing a simple game to get you all back into the P.E habit. So, who’s ready for some soccer?”

Everyone cheers in excitement.

“I will divide you all up into teams, The first team will wear these yellow pinnies. The other team will not wear them.”

The teams were divided Adrien and Marinette ended up on the pinny team. Chloé ended up on the opposite team

“You are going down, Agreste,” Chloé joked

“In your dreams.”

Before the game could begin the ground shook. And then again. The impact was growing stronger until;

“KKKKIIIIMMMM!”

“Oh no,” Mr. D’Argencourt observed.

Chloé turned on her phone and gasped in surprise.

“We need the army, The police, anything. This is a supernatural force!” The news reporter spoke through the phone.

“Looks like school is getting done early,” Mr. D’Argencourt instructed after looking for a message on his phone.”

Everyone starts running to their destinations all in a panic.

“Adrien!” Chloé yelled, “I’ll walk you home and hide there with you if that’s okay.”

“Yeah, sure.”

Adrien and Chloé arrived at the house and closed the door quickly behind them.”

“Oh good!” Emilie sighed in relief. “I was just about to have Nathalie fetch you. It's not safe for you to return home, Chloé.”

“I know. I’m staying here.” Chloé spoke as the two of them walked into Adrien's room and closed the door.

“I have no idea how or what or who caused this,” Adrien paced “Everything is just getting worse and worse and–”

“Adrien, what’s this?”

Chloé points to the small hexagon box sitting on his bedside table. Adrien opens it and sees a black ring with a paw print on it. Before he could get a better look he was blinded by a bright green light.
A small black cat appeared floating right in front of him.

“What is that?” Chloé asked

“I don’t know I–”

“I’m Plagg. And I’m your Kwami!”

“Ahhh!” The kids yelled

Emilie, who was not using her wheelchair today rushed into the room “Kids are you alri– AAHHHH!”

The last person to run into the room was Nathalie who just stared at the cat creature.

“What is this?” Nathalie asked

“Adrien. You were chosen to wield the miraculous of the Black Cat.”

“No I can’t take it,” Adrien trembled as he handed the box to Chloé.

“Adrien. You are the only one who can save Paris from Stoneheart!”

“I don’t want to,” Adrien’s breath became shallower and shallower “The miraculous is the reason why my mother almost died, and my father is a psychological maniac!”

“Adrien,” Emilie hushed putting a hand on his son’s shoulder “We will be okay.”

“Go save the city,” Nathalie added

“Are you sure? I know who Hawkmoth is.”

“Adrien,” Chloé said “You got this. I have faith in you.”

“Okay,” Adrien let out a deep breath calming his anxiety “Plagg, I’ll save the world.”

“Okay,” Plagg grinned “Here are the instructions. When you want to transform, you say ‘Plagg, Claws Out.’ Your power is ‘Cataclysm.’ You can use it to destroy anything you touch. But because you’re
young you can only use your power once. You will have 5 minutes before you transform back. After fighting the villain, you must go into a hiding spot and say, ‘claws in.’”

“Okay. Plagg Claws Out!”

Adrien transforms and his clothing is replaced with a black super suit complete with a tail, cat ears, and a mask.

“You look amazing,” Emilie grinned “Go save the world!”

After defeating Stoneheart and Ladybug, Cat Noir’s fighting partner, released the butterfly, A ton of akumas met up and made a face. The face of Hawkmoth.

“People of Paris, I am Hawkmoth!”

“Hawkmoth?” Ladybug gasps

“I am only here because I want the Ladybug earrings and the Black Cat ring. I will do what it takes to get them!”

“No!” Ladybug says “I will not give you my miraculous nor Cat Noir’s. We will find you and take you down no matter how long it takes.”

Ladybug runs and uses her yoyo to de-evilize all of the akumas and release them.

“People of Paris,” Ladybug shouted ‘Ladybug and Cat Noir will be here protecting each and every one of you until we get the butterfly miraculous back!”

The streets applaud as Ladybug uses her magical ladybugs to fix everything.

“That was great, Ladybug,” Cat Noir said before the two of them went their separate ways “But… I think I know how to defeat Hawkmoth.”

“Really? How?”

“He is Gabriel Agreste. The fashion designer. And I know who his family is”

Chapter Text

“Wait, Gabriel Agreste is Hawkmoth?” Ladybug asked “He is a brand new enemy.”

“I know his son Adrien Agreste,” Cat Noir answered “He is currently living in a small apartment with his mother, and his mother’s assistant.”

“Oh… do you have a plan to defeat him?”

“No not yet, but when I think of something I will let you know.”

“Please do. The sooner we can get rid of him the better.”

Cat Noir made his way back to the apartment and transformed back into Adrien.

“We need a plan to defeat Hawkmoth and lock Gabriel up for good!” Adrien yelled as he walked into the kitchen.

“No shit,” Chloé huffed.

“Oh. You’re still here.”

“Of course I am. Why wouldn’t I be? Home is boring and Sabrina is not allowed out again today after what happened.”

“I forgot her dad is a police officer.”

“So, Cat Noir. What is your plan?” Emilie asked

“I don’t know,” Adrien replied

“We’ll come up with something. Together.”

A few hours later Chloé left and Adrien got himself ready for bed. Emilie and Nathalie wished him good night and settled on the couch together.

“It’s been two weeks,” Emilie said “We have to do something.”

“I know,” Nathalie sighed “Did you at least file the divorce papers?”

“I just got them off today. We’ll just have to go to court once they’re processed.

“Good. We need to get this man out of our lives.”

There was a knock on the door, but not a friendly knock. It was an angry knock.

“I’ll go see who it is,” Emilie said as she made her way to the door as quietly as possible. She looks through the peephole and ducks.

“Shit, it’s Gabriel!” Emilie hissed

“Don’t answer. We need to get Adrien.”

Before Nathalie could take a step Gabriel began pushing on the door trying to get in.

“I know you’re in there, Emilie. Come out.” Gabriel roared

Adrien walked out of his room with a confused look on his face.

“What’s going on?” He asked

“Adrien. Get out of here as fast as you can,” Nathalie ordered. “Call your friend Alya down the hall and ask her parents to be on standby.”

Adrien did as told. He made his phone call and then jumped out of the window as Cat Noir.

Gabriel broke the door off of his hinges and stormed over to Emilie

“I finally found you, my love. Come here,” Gabriel smiled as he held his arms out for a hug. Emilie took a few steps back and grabbed Nathalie’s hand. Nathalie gave it a tight squeeze in response.

“You have NO right coming into MY house like that!” Emilie yelled,

“I thought you always accepted visitors.”

“Not you. You are cruel and sick, and honestly, you deserve to rot in Hell.”

“Oh shit,” Nathalie whispered

“Why did you run from me? I thought you loved me.”

“Maybe I did love you, but that was long ago. The moment we got married I saw you change. You became crueler by the day! You forced me to use a broken miraculous! You left it in the safe so that I would find it! And I did. You were oblivious to the fact that I was suffering and you still made me use it!” Emilie rolled her sleeves up exposing the marks on her arms “These are going to be permanent reminders that you hurt me. My arms will never be the same again!”

“I don’t care. You’re coming with me!”

“No!” Nathalie yelled as she stepped before Emilie “Don’t you DARE touch her!”

“Or what?”

“You’ll have to get through them.”

Nathalie pointed to the couple behind Gabriel.

“You’re done for Mr. Agreste,” Mr. Césaire said. “The cops just arrived.”

The police arrived at the apartment and handcuffed Gabriel. His eyes widened while Emilie wore a huge smile on her face.

“We apologize for the damages done to your place,” Officer Raincomprix said “We will pay for that.”

“Thank you, Officer Emilie replied, her voice shaking with fear

Gabriel was escorted to the police vehicle. The door was put back onto the hinges and Emilie and Nathalie were left in peace.

The first thing Emilie did once everyone left was bury her head into Nathalie’s chest as she broke down into tears.

“Damn girl you really are a badass,” Nathalie whispered “And… I love you for that.”

Emilie looked up from her chest and deep into her eyes.

“You love me?”

“Of course I do. I sacrificed everything for you because I love you. I wouldn’t be here with you otherwise.”

“I love you too.”

Emilie stood straight up and closed the distance between them. Nathalie placed a hand on Emilie’s cheek and moved her thumb across it.

“I’m glad that I get to be here with you,” Emilie whispered.

“Me too.”

Nathalie fully closed the distance between her and Emilie and kissed her passionately. When they pulled apart Nathalie’s phone vibrated. She picked it up and saw a message from Adrien. Her face was suddenly full of worry.

“What is it?” Emilie asked.

“Adrien says that Gabriel released another Akuma.”

“How?”

“I don’t know, but we need to stop him.”

Chapter Text

Adrien rushed back to the apartment before finding Ladybug to check on his parents and the damages done. It was 11:00 at night. There was no chance that anyone would be sleeping after what happened.

“Mom! Nat!” Is everything okay?”

“We’re fine,” Nathalie says still holding Emilie close to her “You?”

“I could be better honestly. I need to get back out there. But first, did you guys see Gabriel wearing his miraculous?”

“No, I didn’t,” Emilie answered “He always wears it under his tie to keep his identity secret.”

Adrien lets out a sad sigh. Why was his father so bright sometimes?

“Okay. I gotta transform back. Plagg, are you ready?”

“Just gotta finish this last piece of camembert.”

“Seriously! You had five minutes! I’m transforming.”

“No wait–”

“PLAGG CLAWS OUT!”

“I wasn’t ready–AHH”

“Okay. You guys stay together,” Cat Noir instructed “This is going to get messy. I love you both.”

“Love you too,” Nathalie answered.

Cat Noir jumped out of the window and went to the Eiffel Tower to meet Ladybug

“What happened?” Ladybug asked

“Gabriel Agreste was arrested today after assaulting his wife. Thankfully his son wasn’t present at the moment. Unfortunately, he had his miraculous and released an akuma a few minutes after getting in the police car. I saw it while I was patrolling the area.”

“Oh.. how did he do it when he was in the back of the police van?”

“Gabriel’s former assistant Nathalie has extensive knowledge of the miraculous. When I ran into her I inquired. She told me that the one that yields the butterfly miraculous can make akumas and save them for later. My guess is that he released it in the car.”

“Interesting. Let's look out for the akumatized villain.”

“LADYBUG! CAT NOIR! GIVE ME YOUR MIRACULOUS!”

“Gabriel?” Cat Noir was surprised that his own father chose to akumatize himself.

“I am not Gabriel. I am Collector. I will take your miraculous.”

“We’ll see about that… Hawkmoth.” Ladybug sneered

“How do you know?”

“Because I know your son and he knows everything!” Cat Noir answered

“What???”

“Let’s settle this diplomatically,” Ladybug yelled “Gabriel, Why do you need our miraculous?”

“Because I need to make a wish.”

“And what is your wish exactly?”

“To kill my wife Emilie Agreste!”

Cat Noir’s eyes widen. He made sure to mask his emotions to keep his identity secret.

“Why do you want to kill Emilie?” Cat Noir almost roared

“Because she was supposed to die from the use of the peacock miraculous. I gave that miraculous to three people to use. Each of them could not bear a child, and they created the child of their dreams. Colt Fathom created Félix, Tomoe Tsurugi’s late husband created Kagami, and my wife created Adrien.”

“There is something in this picture that is not correct,” Ladybug observed “Colt and Mr. Tsurugi are both male. Why didn’t you use the miraculous?”

“Because I had a destiny to fulfill being Hawkmoth.”

“And you’re willing to kill your wife because of that?”

“Yes, because she was supposed to be dead, but my assistant took her to get help and it’s working!”

“She saved her then.”

“No. She ruined it all! She is a selfish little brat.”

“I honestly think Emilie chose to run from you,” Cat Noir stated “She clearly didn’t want to die and your former assistant felt the same way.”

“I! Don’t! Care!”

Gabriel let out a scream of rage and charged for the two teenagers. Before Gabriel could lay his hands on them helicopters flew above the building they were standing on with bright lighting shining on Collector and the two heroes.

“There!” Someone yelled

While Gabriel was distracted Ladybug took the chance to break the akumatized object and de-evilize the butterfly.

“You’re in even bigger trouble than you originally were,” one of the officers said as they handcuffed Gabriel again

“Wait!” Cat Noir said, “Before you put Gabriel in the helicopter, There’s something I need from him.”

“Okay but be quick, kid.”

“Don’t worry I will.”

Cat Noir took Gabriel’s tie off and ripped the small brooch off of his shirt.

“I’ll keep hold of this,” Cat Noir said as he slipped the miraculous into his pockets. “You are a cruel cruel man, Gabriel Agreste,” Cat Noir growled “You deserve to rot in jail until the day you die!”

“Adrien! Are you okay?” Emilie asked as she ran up to her son wrapping her arms in a tight embrace.

“I’m fine,” Adrien replied And… I retrieved this.”

Adrien took the butterfly miraculous out of his pocket. There was a bright purple light, and a butterfly-like kwami emerged from the miraculous.

“M..m… master?”

“You won’t see him ever again,” Adrien assured the kwami. “Hi. I’m Adrien. I hold the miraculous of the Black Cat.”

“I’m Nooroo. It’s nice to meet you.”

“You too.”

Plagg emerged from Adrien’s shirt pocket and froze at the sight he saw.

“Nooroo?”

“Plagg!”

The two kwamis levitated toward each other and shared a long hug.

“It’s been so long!”

“150 years to be exact.”

“Where’s everyone else? Duusu?”

“They’re… not here.”

“We will take you back to Master Fu, Nooroo,” Nathalie said “We have to retrieve Duusu from the mansion first.”

“No we don’t,” Emilie said as she held the damaged miraculous in her hand “I kept it after Gabriel made me use it for the final time.”

“So what’s in the safe?” Nathalie asked

“A decoy.”

“Damn. You really are a badass!” Nathalie cooed placing a kiss on Emilie’s cheek. Emilie’s cheeks turned pink as she leaned her head on Nathalie’s shoulder.

“Are you two… A thing now?” Adrien asked

“We are,” Emilie sighed happily “Are you okay with that?”

“Of course I am. Nathalie is like a mom to me anyway so this is not much of a change.”

Emilie smiled, and Adrien brought his moms into a tight hug

“I so glad to have you guys.” Adrien sighed

Chapter Text

After everything that happened, Nathalie returned the miraculous to Master Fu who was greatly appreciated. He allowed Ladybug and Cat Noir to hold their miraculous in case something else became an issue.

Five months later, the divorce was processed, and Emilie was given full custody of Adrien. She changed her and Adrien’s last name back to Graham de Vanily as they no longer wanted to associate with him.

Gabriel was sentenced to life in jail for domestic abuse, attempted murder, and terrorism. His stores around France, and internationally closed to show support of Emilie and Adrien. Instead of closing the stores in Paris completely, Audrey Bourgeois bought them and named them after both of her daughters.

Nathalie was officially free from Gabriel’s employment. She was starting to plan an organization to help people in abusive relationships. Andre was willing to sponsor her and gave her a place to hold her business.

Adrien was on his way home from school with Chloé, and his friends Marinette, Alya, and Nino. Chloé had planned a bit of a celebration to celebrate all of the good that has happened after all of the bad
“We’re home!” Adrien called out as he opened the door to let his friends in. He closed the door behind him and placed his keys on the table by the door.

“Oh good!” Emilie called out as she came in from the balcony “I have a surprise for all of you.” Emilie walked into the living room, and gestured her hands to a vintage jukebox.

“You guys can sing all of the karaoke you want now!”

“That’s fricking awesome!” Nino cheered “Come on let’s find something to sing!”

“Oh Since You’ve Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson is on here.” Marinette said

“Let’s do it,” Alya agreed

“I literally don’t know any of the words,” Adrien laughed

“Shut up! You’re a classically trained musician! just look at the lyrics!” Chloé half yelled

Marinette clicked the button for the song and it started to play.

In the kitchen, Emilie watched as the kids yelled and shouted excitedly.

“SINCE YOU’VE BEEN GONE…” the kids belted at the top of their lungs.

“Are you enjoying watching them?” Nathalie asked as she wrapped her arms around Emilie’s waist from behind.

“I haven’t seen Adrien this happy… ever.” Emilie answered

“We made the right choice,” Nathalie sighed as she rested her chin on Emilie’s shoulder. Emilie placed her hands on Nathalie’s and squeezed them.

“Nathalie. Thank you. Without you, I wouldn’t be here. You’d still be working for the asshole and Adrien… would be alone.”

“Emilie, I did this all for you. You said you didn’t want to die, and I made sure you got your wish.”

“I love you Nathalie Sancoeur. I love you to infinity and beyond.”

“I love you too Emilie Graham de Vanily.”

The two of them stayed like that as the teenagers started belting out Gimme Gimme by ABBA. All Emilie could do was smile. A year ago she was on her deathbed, Adrien was alone, and Nathalie was still working for Gabriel longing to be with Emilie like she is now. If that taught them anything, it taught them the cherish the time they have together, and to love everyone no matter what. Life was different, but the future was bright for all of them. They were… happy.