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Chapter Text

It was only tuesday morning and Marinette already couldn’t shake the exhaustion that weighed her down. Her body felt heavy, and despite trying to stay focused, her eyelids grew too heavy to keep open.
Sitting at her desk next to Alya, she could hear the faint sounds of the classroom—the scribbling of pens, the soft rustle of paper, and the occasional chuckle. It all seemed so distant. She tried to concentrate on the lesson, but her head began to droop.

Alya, who had been watching Marinette closely, noticed immediately. “Marinette?” she whispered softly, nudging her gently. But there was no response. Marinette was already slipping into unconsciousness, her head resting against the desk, her breath soft and steady.

Alya frowned, glancing around the classroom, but before she could say anything, Marinette’s body slumped forward, completely losing its balance. The sudden fall from her chair echoed through the room, and the class erupted in laughter.

“Looks like someone’s too tired to stay awake!” Chloé jeered from the back, snickering along with her usual group of followers.

The sound of laughter rang in Marinette’s ears, but it felt muffled, as if she were in a bubble. The world around her seemed to blur. Her head had hit the floor with a thud, the impact jarring, but it didn’t register to her mind in time. It wasn’t until she felt the cold floor against her cheek that she realized what had happened.

Alya jumped to her feet, concern etching her face as she made to help Marinette, but before she could move, something else happened. A sharp, commanding voice rang through the room, stopping the laughter dead in its tracks.

“Enough!” Adrien’s voice was sharp and low, carrying an intensity that startled even him. His words cut through the laughter like a knife, and the entire class went silent, their eyes wide. The harshness in his voice was almost foreign, it was filled with something deep and protective, an emotion none of them had ever seen from him.

Adrien was already out of his seat before anyone could react. He rushed to Marinette’s side, his concern flooding his features. His eyes scanned her trembling form, and without hesitation, he helped her sit up, gently cradling her in his arms.
“Marinette, are you okay?” His voice was soft, but there was an underlying urgency, a worry that ran so deep it was almost palpable. His hands trembled as he held her, as though he was afraid she might break apart in his arms.

Marinette blinked slowly, still disoriented, her mind struggling to keep up. She could feel the warmth of his body against hers, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her ear, and it soothed her in a way she couldn’t quite explain.

The class was still eerily silent. Even Chloé’s usual snide remarks were nowhere to be heard. No one dared speak as they watched Adrien, their normally carefree and lighthearted classmate, holding Marinette with such intensity. His eyes were filled with nothing but concern, and it was more than a little unsettling for them to see him so unlike his usual self.

Marinette felt a small shiver run through her body. The cool air of the classroom brushed against her face, but Adrien’s warmth surrounded her, as if protecting her from the world. She hadn’t realized it before, but the way he held her was different than just a friend, it was tender, protective.
And then, she felt it: the sting of a single tear slipping down her cheek.
She hadn’t even noticed it fall. She hadn’t even realized she was crying, but the warm drop against her skin startled her, and before she could wipe it away, Adrien’s thumb gently brushed it aside.
“You don’t have to pretend, Marinette,” he whispered, his voice soft as ever, but this time laced with something deeper. “It’s okay to feel things. To be tired. To be sad. You don’t have to keep all of that to yourself.”

Marinette’s breath hitched, her chest tightening as the weight of his words pressed against her heart. It’s okay to feel things. How long had she been hiding her feelings? How long had she been pretending? She hadn’t realized how much she had bottled up inside, how much she had hidden from even herself.
For a moment, the pain in her heart seemed to lessen, just a little. Adrien wasn’t giving her empty comfort or pity, he was simply there, sharing his quiet, unspoken concern. But that, somehow, was more than enough.
Her heart ached. Maybe, just maybe, she had always known deep down that Adrien might not feel the same way she did. He had always been kind to her, had always seen her as a friend, and it had always been enough—just not in the way she had hoped.
Maybe someday… she thought, her heart whispering the words she couldn’t speak aloud. Maybe in the future, things could change. But for now, this is enough.

Adrien’s gaze never wavered from her, his green eyes searching her face with a tenderness she hadn’t expected. “You don’t have to pretend to be okay, Marinette,” he said again, this time with a quiet, earnestness in his voice that made her stomach flutter.

She nodded slowly, her voice barely above a whisper. “I know. Thanks, Adrien.”

For a moment, there was nothing but the soft rhythm of her breathing and the gentle pressure of Adrien’s arms around her, grounding her in a way nothing else could.
He gently helped her to her feet, his arm still protectively around her shoulders. Marinette’s body trembled slightly from the shock of the fall, but Adrien didn’t let her go. He stayed close, as if offering silent support.
Alya and Nino exchanged another look, this time not with concern, but with quiet understanding. They knew Adrien cared deeply for Marinette, they had seen it in the little moments, the quiet gestures, the warmth in his voice whenever he spoke to her. And now, as they watched him carefully escort Marinette back to her seat, they understood something that had been unspoken between them for a long time: Adrien might not realize it yet, but his feelings for Marinette were already deeper than he knew.

As Adrien helped Marinette back into her seat, his arm still around her shoulders, she winced. Her head throbbed, a sharp pain shooting through her skull that made her stomach churn. She tried to ignore it, but the discomfort was undeniable. The hard impact of her fall had shaken her more than she’d realized.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Adrien’s voice was full of concern, his brow furrowed as he gently eased her back down onto the chair. He was still holding her steady, reluctant to let go, as if afraid she might collapse again at any moment.

Marinette opened her mouth to respond, but the words got caught in her throat. Instead, she let out a soft whimper, barely audible, and her hand instinctively went to her forehead, where a dull ache had settled.
Her heart hammered in her chest, but it wasn’t just from the pain. Adrien’s presence, his concern, was overwhelming in the best way possible. It was hard to breathe properly with the conflicting emotions swirling inside her—this tenderness she never expected, this kindness that seemed to make everything else feel like background noise.

He noticed the way her hand pressed against her forehead and the faint wince that passed across her face. “Marinette…” he whispered, crouching down so his face was level with hers. His green eyes were intense with worry. “You’re hurt, aren’t you? You hit your head when you fell.”

Marinette bit her lip, trying to keep herself together, but the pain was starting to feel worse. The throbbing in her head intensified, and for a moment, she felt dizzy. The world spun slightly, and she closed her eyes, not trusting herself to speak. She was embarrassed—her body was betraying her, and the concern in Adrien’s eyes was so genuine, so real, that it made her want to pull away and hide. But she couldn’t, not when he was being so kind, not when his hand was so warm against her arm.
“I’m fine,” she whispered, though it was barely believable, even to herself. She didn’t want to make a scene, didn’t want to burden him more than she already had, but she couldn’t deny how much she needed to be taken care of right now.

Adrien’s eyes softened, his expression gentle but firm. “No, you’re not fine. You’re hurt, and I’m not going to just pretend everything’s okay. You need to see the nurse.”

Marinette tried to shake her head, but the movement only made the pain in her skull flare up. She bit back another whimper, her grip tightening on the edge of her desk.

"Marinette," Adrien said quietly, his voice full of conviction. "Please, let me help you. I can’t just sit here and do nothing."

Alya, who had been watching the exchange with growing concern, finally spoke up. “Adrien’s right. You really should go to the nurse, Marinette. If you’re feeling dizzy or disoriented, it’s better to be safe.”

Nino nodded in agreement, his usual laid-back demeanor replaced with an expression of worry. “Yeah, take it easy. You’re not invincible, you know.”

Marinette wanted to protest, but she couldn’t. Her head was pounding, and her vision blurred slightly as she tried to focus on her friends. She felt embarrassed, weak even, but at the same time, she couldn’t deny how good it felt to have someone care. Adrien’s gentle touch, his quiet insistence, made her feel less alone in a way she wasn’t used to.
“I... I don’t want to bother anyone,” she mumbled, trying to push through the pain. She felt ridiculous. This wasn’t a big deal. It was just a little bump on the head, right?

Adrien’s gaze softened even further, and before she could protest again, he carefully helped her stand up, his arm supporting her waist as if she might collapse at any moment. “You’re not bothering anyone, Marinette. We care about you, okay? And we want to make sure you’re okay.”

Alya stood up as well, her eyes full of concern. “Yeah, we’ve got your back. Don’t worry about a thing.”

Nino gave a reassuring smile, his voice light but genuine. “We’ll take you to the nurse. Don’t stress about anything.”

Marinette opened her mouth to argue, but the words caught in her throat again. She felt a quiet wave of gratitude, mixed with the deep ache in her heart. Adrien was being so kind, so protective. Her body was trembling, but it wasn’t just from the pain in her head. There was a quiet warmth in his actions, in the way he cared for her so effortlessly, even when he had no idea what she was truly going through.
And it hurt. It hurt because she knew, deep down, that it wasn’t love he was showing her. It was friendship. He cared for her as a friend, and that was enough, at least for now. But the aching, hopeful part of her heart still dreamed of something more.

As they walked toward the nurse’s office, Adrien’s arm never left her shoulders. His warmth was constant, like an anchor in the storm of emotions that swirled inside her. The rhythmic sound of his footsteps beside hers was the only thing that kept her grounded, the only thing that made her feel like maybe things might turn out okay.

Marinette sat in the nurse’s office, her head resting on the cold, sterile pillow as the soft hum of the fluorescent lights buzzed overhead. She tried to blink away the dizziness that still lingered, but her vision swam every time she moved. The pain in her head pulsed, a constant reminder of how hard she’d hit the floor.

Adrien was beside her, his presence as reassuring as it was overwhelming. He hadn’t left her side since they’d arrived, staying close, always watching her, asking if she needed anything. His concern was palpable, but there was a quiet sadness in his eyes, as if he could feel her pain without fully understanding why it was so much more than just the physical injury.

The nurse had checked her over, confirming that she had a mild concussion. “Rest and keep your head still for a while,” she’d told her with a kind but no-nonsense voice. “You’ll be fine in a few days, but make sure you stay away from screens and avoid anything too strenuous. If you feel dizzy or nauseous again, come back immediately.”

But Marinette could barely focus on the nurse’s instructions. The dizziness hadn’t completely subsided, and every time she tried to speak, the words felt slow and thick in her mouth. She was aware of the way Adrien hovered next to her, his green eyes never leaving her face.

“I’m sorry, Marinette,” Adrien said softly, his voice filled with guilt. “I should’ve told the teacher to stop the class when you fell. I—”

Marinette blinked up at him, her vision fuzzy.
She tried to smile, but it felt weak, and her lips only managed a small, almost apologetic curve. “It wasn’t your fault, Adrien,” she murmured, her voice hoarse. She swallowed against the lump in her throat. “I… I wasn’t paying attention. I just… I was so tired.”

Adrien’s brow furrowed in concern. “But you’re still hurt, and I could’ve done something sooner. I didn’t even realize how badly you hit your head until we got to the nurse…”

Marinette shook her head gently, trying not to aggravate the pain. She didn’t want him to blame himself, not when it wasn’t his fault. “I’ll be fine. Really,” she said, though the words felt like an empty promise.

For a moment, neither of them spoke, the quiet stretching between them. The only sound was the faint ticking of the clock on the wall, and the soft rustling of the sheets as Marinette shifted. Adrien continued to watch her closely, his gaze flicking between her eyes, her face, his worry deepening with every passing second.

Marinette wanted to reassure him. She wanted to tell him that she would be okay, that she wasn’t about to fall apart. But the truth was, she didn’t know how to explain how much more this hurt than just a bump on the head.
It wasn’t just the concussion that had her feeling disoriented—it was everything else. The crushing weight of her unspoken feelings for him, the quiet ache in her heart that she had been hiding for so long. Adrien’s kindness was a balm to her wounded heart, but it also made the gap between them feel so much wider.
She had always hoped—foolishly, maybe—that one day he might see her as more than just a friend. But now, in this vulnerable moment, as he watched over her with such tenderness, she realized how much she had been asking of him. He wasn’t just her friend; he was everything to her.
And that, in itself, was both a blessing and a burden.

She closed her eyes for a moment, focusing on the steady beat of her own heart, trying to clear the fog in her mind. When she opened them again, she saw Adrien’s face just a few inches away, his hand gently brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear.

“Marinette, please… let me know if you need anything,” he whispered, his voice as soft as velvet, his green eyes full of quiet worry. “I hate seeing you like this.”

Her heart skipped a beat at the tenderness in his voice, and she couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming rush of emotions. It was so much, too much at once. He was here for her, truly here—unwavering, kind—but there was no way for him to know what her heart was really saying.

“I… I don’t know how to thank you,” she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper, the words heavy in the silence of the room.

Adrien’s face softened, and he gave her a small, comforting smile. “You don’t have to thank me, Marinette. I care about you.” His words were simple but earnest, and for a moment, they hung in the air, unspoken and raw. “I’ll always be here for you.”

Marinette’s breath caught in her throat. He cares about me… Her heart swelled with a bittersweet sense of hope, even as the pain in her head reminded her of the distance between them.
“I know,” she whispered back, her voice trembling slightly as the emotion built up in her chest. “I know you do.”

Adrien sat beside her for a while, keeping her company in the silence. Every now and then, he would glance at her with that same soft, caring expression, but he didn’t push her to say more. He understood that sometimes, just being there was enough.
The minutes passed, and the dizziness began to fade, though her head still felt heavy. She wasn’t sure how long she’d been lying there, but she felt the warmth of sleep pulling at her eyelids. Before she could fight it, the exhaustion overtook her, and she allowed herself to lean back into the pillow, her breathing steady as her eyes fluttered shut.
Adrien was still by her side, his presence a comforting weight in the room.
But as Marinette drifted off into a restless sleep, she couldn’t help but think: Maybe someday, things could be different. Maybe one day, he’d see me the way I see him.
But for now, she would hold onto the kindness he showed her, the care in his eyes, and let that be enough.

Marinette’s parents arrived not long after, stepping into the nurse’s office with concerned but calm expressions. Sabine’s eyes softened the moment she saw her daughter, and Tom moved quickly to her side, his large, comforting hand on her shoulder.

Adrien was still beside her, his face so close to hers that his breath brushed against her cheek. He wasn’t entirely sure what had prompted him to do that, to remain so close. But it felt natural, like he needed to stay near her, to make sure she was alright. His hand still held hers gently, his thumb occasionally brushing over her knuckles as he watched her sleep, his heart aching with a tenderness he didn’t quite understand.

He looked at her parents, his voice full of emotion as he spoke with an intensity they weren’t used to seeing from him.
“Please… take care of her,” Adrien said, his voice hoarse with worry. “I don’t want her to be alone right now. She’s really important to me, and… I want her to be alright.”

Tom’s gaze softened at Adrien’s words, his expression kind and understanding. But it was Sabine who stepped forward, cupping Adrien’s cheek with a gentle, motherly touch. “You’re a good boy, Adrien,” she said with a warm, reassuring smile. “She’s going to be fine, I promise. We’ll take good care of her.”

Adrien nodded, feeling a strange mixture of gratitude and helplessness. He didn’t want to leave her side, not when she was so vulnerable, not when she still needed someone to hold her hand and make sure she was okay.

As Sabine and Tom carefully lifted Marinette from the bed, she stirred slightly, her face scrunching as if she were waking up from a dream. She groggily reached out, her hand finding Adrien’s, and then mumbled softly, still half asleep, “No… I need my emotional support blonde… don’t let them take me away…”

Marinette’s voice was muffled, but the words sent a ripple through the room. Adrien blinked in shock as she instinctively crawled back into his arms, her head nuzzling against his chest. The contact was so unexpected, so sweet, that Adrien didn’t quite know how to react at first. But then, a soft chuckle escaped his lips, the tension in his chest loosening just slightly.

Alya and Nino gasped from where they stood by the door, both of them unable to hide their amusement. They already knew about Marinette’s crush on Adrien, but this? This was a surprise. They exchanged knowing glances, but it was clear they were trying to hold back laughter.

Meanwhile, Marinette’s parents shared a look of understanding. There was no mistaking the connection between their daughter and the boy who’d never left her side.
“I’ll come check up on you later…” Adrien whispered, his voice soft as he gently brushed a strand of hair from Marinette’s face. He leaned down, placing a tender kiss on her forehead. “Rest well, Marinette.”

Sabine gave Adrien an appreciative smile, one that spoke volumes. “Thank you, Adrien. You’ve been a good friend to her.”

Tom nodded in agreement, his hand resting on Marinette’s shoulder as they prepared to leave. “Take care of yourself, too. We’ll see you soon.”

Marinette let out a soft, almost reluctant sigh as her parents moved to pick her up, and Adrien reluctantly allowed his hand to leave hers. Her eyes fluttered shut once more, and her breathing slowed, the exhaustion still evident in her form.

Alya, Nino, and Adrien slowly walked out of the nurse’s office, heading back to class. The tension in the air was thick with unspoken words, and Alya couldn’t help but tease Adrien, nudging him with her elbow.
“So, I see someone has a special place in Marinette’s heart,” Alya teased, her grin wide. “You’re her emotional support blonde now, huh?”

Adrien flushed slightly, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. “I—uh… I didn’t mean for that to happen, okay? She just… she was really out of it. I didn’t know what else to do.”

Nino chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re blushing, dude. You sure you’re not secretly in love with her?”

“Shut up, Nino,” Adrien muttered, his face still red. “It’s just… it’s just that she’s hurt. I just want to make sure she’s okay. That’s all.”

Alya and Nino exchanged a teasing glance, but they both knew there was something more there. Something Adrien wasn’t ready to admit yet. They could see it in his eyes, the care, the affection, the way he looked at Marinette.

As they reentered the classroom, Adrien’s expression hardened. He stepped to the front of the room, his eyes narrowing as he glared at his classmates. The room fell silent, all eyes on him.
“Listen up,” Adrien’s voice was low, but it carried an edge of fury that shocked Alya and Nino. “Marinette has a pretty bad concussion. She’s injured, and all of you did was sit there and laugh. You think that’s funny?” His gaze swept across the room, his fists clenched at his sides. “You are disgusting. All of you.”

Alya and Nino exchanged stunned glances, surprised by the fire in Adrien’s voice. They’d never seen him this angry before.

Adrien’s words were harsh, his voice a sharp contrast to the usual calm and gentle demeanor he wore. But there was no mistaking the intensity in his eyes, the fury that had built up inside him.

“Don’t expect any respect from me from this moment on,” he snarled, turning on his heel and striding to his seat. Alya and Nino followed behind him, still in shock from the outburst. They sat down in silence, the weight of what had just happened settling over them like a heavy blanket.

The rest of the class was silent, unsure of how to respond to Adrien’s outburst. No one dared to say anything as the tension in the air thickened.
But for Adrien, the moment had passed. All that mattered now was making sure Marinette was okay. He couldn’t stand to see her hurt, and the fact that his classmates had laughed at her pain only made the anger inside him burn hotter.

As the bell rang and the day went on, Adrien kept to himself, his mind occupied by thoughts of Marinette. He couldn’t help but wonder if she was okay, if she was resting, if she knew how much he cared.
But as the world carried on, one thing was clear: Adrien wasn’t going to let anyone hurt her. Not now, not ever.

Chapter Text

The warm glow of the evening sun cast soft shadows across Marinette’s bedroom as she sat on her bed, her textbooks scattered across the duvet but completely forgotten. She was still recovering from the concussion, her head aching every now and then, but at least the dizziness had subsided. She absentmindedly played with her sketchbook, the pages of her designs blending into one chaotic mess of lines and ideas.

It had been a quiet day, but she couldn’t help but feel the weight of the earlier moments replaying in her mind, the way Adrien had looked at her with such concern, the way he’d refused to leave her side when she was at the nurse’s office. The memory of his touch, his gentle hand on her cheek, sent warmth rushing to her cheeks. But it also brought the familiar wave of self-consciousness, and Marinette found herself wondering if it had all meant anything at all.

Then came the knock at the door.

Marinette’s heart skipped a beat. She wasn’t expecting anyone, especially not him. She froze for a moment, her eyes wide. It couldn’t be...could it?

"Marinette? It's me, Adrien," came his voice from the other side of the door, clear and calm, but with a softness that made her stomach flutter.
When he opened the door, Adrien stood there, looking as handsome as ever, but with a concerned look still lingering in his eyes. His gaze softened when he saw her, his usual confidence replaced with a hint of hesitation. He was holding a small bouquet of flowers in his hand—a simple, sweet gesture that only made her heart ache even more.

“You… you came to visit?” Marinette’s voice trembled, and she immediately cursed herself for sounding so weak.

Adrien smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Yeah, I figured I should check in on you. I heard from your parents that you’re doing okay, but I wanted to see for myself.” His voice held a mixture of warmth and worry, and Marinette couldn’t help but feel her heart flutter.

“Oh… Thank you, Adrien,” she murmured.

He walked in cautiously, glancing around the room as if unsure of where to go.

Marinette motioned toward her bed. “You can sit if you want,” she said, trying to sound normal, but her voice was still shaky. She could feel the heat rising in her cheeks as she remembered what had happened earlier. “Emotional support blonde,” she repeated in her head, a mixture of embarrassment and confusion flooding her thoughts.

As Adrien sat down, he placed the flowers carefully on her desk, then looked back at her with a playful grin. “So…” he began, his voice light and teasing. “I guess I’m your emotional support blonde now, huh?”

Marinette’s face turned a deep shade of red. She had known he’d bring it up, but she hadn’t been prepared for how easily he could make her blush. She opened her mouth, her brain scrambling for a coherent response, but it came out as a stutter. “I-I… What are you talking about?” she squeaked, clearly flustered. “I-I never said that! I… I mean, I—I never called you—”

Adrien raised an eyebrow, his grin widening as he leaned back slightly, watching her squirm with amusement. “Oh? You didn’t? Because I distinctly remember someone mumbling something about needing their emotional support blonde earlier today.”

Marinette froze, her mouth going dry. Her face was now completely crimson, and she could feel the heat spreading from her neck all the way to the tips of her ears. She tried to gather her thoughts, but it was like the words just weren’t coming out right.
“I—I…” She stammered again, desperate to explain herself, but the words stuck in her throat. “I-I wasn’t thinking! I was just—uh, I mean…” Her hand waved in the air, completely lost for any coherent explanation. “I was… half asleep! And you were, uh, helping me earlier, so I… I don’t—uh, I didn’t mean—”

Adrien chuckled softly, clearly enjoying her reaction. “It’s okay, Marinette,” he said with a playful tone, though there was still an undertone of affection in his voice. “I don’t mind. I’m happy to be your emotional support blonde.”

Marinette felt her heart flutter again, her palms sweating slightly. She didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. She had hoped that Adrien wouldn’t tease her, but here he was, making it impossible for her to hide her feelings.
“I—I can’t believe you’re teasing me about this,” she said, her voice small but filled with a nervous edge. “I’m so embarrassed…”

Adrien’s expression softened then, his teasing smile fading into something gentler. He reached over, placing his hand on hers gently, his touch warm and comforting. “I’m not teasing you, Marinette,” he said quietly. “I just… I want you to know that I’m here for you, okay? You don’t have to be embarrassed. I’m happy to help however I can.”

Marinette looked up at him, her heart swelling with emotions she didn’t know how to handle. He was always so kind to her, so sincere, and it was more than she could ever ask for. The words she had been holding onto—the words she had wanted to say for so long—were on the tip of her tongue, but she didn’t know how to voice them.

“Adrien…” She began, but the words didn’t come out. She hesitated, unsure of how much to say, how much he would understand.

But Adrien’s gentle smile never wavered. “I’m not going anywhere, Marinette,” he said softly. “Take your time.”

The silence that fell between them was comfortable, yet heavy with unspoken words. Marinette, feeling too embarrassed to speak, found herself sitting a little closer to Adrien, almost without realizing it. Her body moved on its own, drawn toward him like a moth to a flame. Her cheek gently rested against his collarbone, and for a moment, the world outside her bedroom seemed to fade away.

Adrien blinked, surprised by her sudden closeness, but he didn’t move away. If anything, he found himself leaning into her, his heart beating just a little faster. He could feel the warmth of her against him, her soft breath mingling with his own, and for some reason, he didn’t want to break the moment. Marinette’s presence felt like a kind of peace, a calm he hadn’t realized he needed.

Marinette’s heart hammered in her chest, her mind racing. What was she doing? She couldn’t believe she was this close to him, so close that she could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her ear. The familiar pulse of his heart calmed her in a way that nothing else could. The throbbing in her head, the dull ache of her concussion, seemed to melt away as she allowed herself to sink into the moment. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d felt so safe, so at ease, despite her usual anxious tendencies.

Adrien hesitated for just a second, then reached up slowly, his hand gently threading through her hair. He noticed immediately that her pigtails weren’t there, her hair now flowing freely around her shoulders in soft, loose waves. The change was subtle, but it made her seem even more... grown-up. More real. His fingers brushed through her hair gently, the sensation surprisingly comforting. Her hair was soft, silky beneath his touch, and he found himself absentmindedly running his fingers through the strands, savoring the simple act of being close to her.

For Marinette, it felt like her heart was going to burst. She had never imagined herself in this kind of situation with Adrien—her Adrien, the one she had admired from afar for so long. But now, she was here, her head resting against his chest, his fingers gently threading through her hair. It was more than she could have ever hoped for.
She didn’t speak, not because she didn’t want to, but because she was so overwhelmed by the emotions surging through her. This felt right. It felt real. And even though her thoughts were scattered, even though her heart was racing, she didn’t want to pull away. She didn’t want to ruin the moment by saying something silly, by making it awkward. She just... wanted to enjoy being close to him.

Adrien, feeling the softness of her hair under his fingertips, smiled quietly to himself. It was a smile that spoke of warmth, affection, and a deep sense of connection. He had always admired Marinette from a distance, but now—now that he was here with her, now that he could feel the quiet intensity between them, he realized just how much he cherished her.
He tilted his head slightly, glancing down at her. Her face was slightly flushed, her eyes closed in a quiet contentment, and he couldn’t help but feel a protective instinct surge within him. She was so delicate, so strong in her own way, but so vulnerable at the same time. He wanted to be there for her. Always.

“How’s your head?” Adrien asked softly, his voice low and tender as he continued to run his fingers through her hair. He tried to keep his tone light, but there was an underlying concern in his words. He couldn’t help but worry about her, even over something as simple as a concussion.

Marinette hummed softly, the sound barely escaping her lips as she shifted slightly, snuggling closer to him. The simple, calming motion of his fingers in her hair made everything else fade away. “It still hurts a bit,” she murmured, her voice quiet and almost shy. “But it’s not as bad now. Being here with you... helps.”

Adrien’s heart skipped a beat. He hadn’t expected that response, and he certainly hadn’t expected her to be this open with him. His chest tightened with something that was more than just friendship, and he found himself holding her a little closer, instinctively wanting to protect her from anything that could hurt her.

“I’m glad I can help,” he said softly, his voice barely above a whisper. “And I’ll always be here for you, Marinette. If you need me, I’ll be here.”

Marinette’s breath caught in her throat. His words, so simple, so sincere, made her heart swell. She wanted to say so much more than she could possibly express. But in that moment, she was content to just be there with him, to let his presence be enough.
She shifted a little, her head tilting slightly as she looked up at him, her eyes catching his green ones. For a moment, neither of them spoke, both of them caught in the quiet, unspoken connection between them. It felt like time had slowed, like the world outside had ceased to exist, and all that mattered was the shared closeness, the unspoken understanding that hung between them.
For a brief second, Marinette wondered if this was just the beginning of something more. Could it be possible that Adrien, her Adrien, felt the same way? She could feel her heart pounding against her ribcage, the uncertainty lingering in the back of her mind.
But for now, she couldn’t bring herself to voice the question that lingered in her heart.
So, instead, she simply allowed herself to stay in the moment, resting against him, allowing his gentle touch to continue soothing her. There would be time to figure everything out later. For now, she was content to just be with him, to be present in the quiet, tender space they shared.

Adrien gently shifted, careful not to disturb Marinette’s position as she rested against him. With one hand still entwined in her hair, he guided her slowly onto the bed, so they were both lying down, side by side. Her head rested comfortably against his shoulder, her body tucked against his side. For a long moment, he simply let himself relax into the moment, feeling the steady rhythm of her breathing, the warmth of her presence beside him. He was content. More content than he had been in a long time.
What made him happiest, though, was the fact that she didn’t pull away. She didn’t try to put distance between them, like she always did whenever they got close. Marinette was usually so nervous, so self-conscious around him, often retreating into herself when their closeness became too much for her. But not now. Now, she was calm, peaceful even. And she stayed close. The quiet, intimate connection between them felt more natural than anything he had ever felt before.

Adrien shifted again, his heart heavy with a mix of emotions. He had always cherished their friendship, but now, lying next to her, something felt different. Why had it taken him so long to see it? He had always told himself that his feelings for Marinette were nothing more than friendship. She was his best friend, someone who made him laugh, someone who understood him in ways others didn’t. He had always thought his feelings toward her were just...platonic.
But then he thought of Nino and Alya, his other best friends. They were incredibly important to him, of course—Nino, his brother in everything but blood, and Alya, his fun-loving, adventurous friend. But the way he felt about them was completely different from the way he felt about Marinette.
It wasn’t just friendship with Marinette. No, it was something more. It was the way she had always been there for him, even when he didn’t ask. The way she had always understood him in ways no one else could. He thought back to all the times she’d noticed things about him that no one else did, the little things that always went unnoticed by his classmates, by his father, even by his closest friends.
Marinette was the only one who had ever seen the real him—the Adrien beneath the model’s façade, beneath the expectations of his father and the pressure to always be perfect. She had noticed long before he ever admitted it to her or anyone else, that he hated being a model. That the smiles and the flashes of cameras didn’t bring him joy. That the constant push to meet his father’s standards weighed heavily on him.

It was Marinette who had seen through all the layers and figured out the truth about him. It was her kindness, her attention to detail, that had made her the first person to truly understand him. And maybe that was why he was so drawn to her.
The realization hit him like a wave. All this time, he had convinced himself that his feelings for Marinette were nothing more than friendship, because that was what he told himself it should be. But now, with her so close to him, it was undeniable.
She understands me, he thought to himself. She’s the one who truly gets me. And I... I want more. I want to be the one who makes her smile. I want to be the one who makes her feel safe and loved the way she does for me.

Adrien’s hand tightened slightly on hers, a gentle gesture that conveyed a mix of affection and protectiveness. He could feel her warmth, the way her body relaxed against his, and for the first time in a long time, he didn’t feel lonely. There was something comforting about being with her, something he didn’t even know he needed until now.
For the first time, Adrien understood the difference between the feelings he had for Marinette and the ones he had for everyone else. He cared for Nino, he appreciated Alya, but there was something uniquely special about Marinette. Something deeper.
He couldn’t keep pretending that his feelings were just friendship anymore. It was more than that. It had been for a long time.
But what did that mean? Adrien wasn’t sure. He had never expected to find himself in this situation, lying here with Marinette, his best friend, his emotional anchor, feeling something more.

And yet, here they were. Her breath was steady, her body warm against his. He could feel the soft rise and fall of her chest, and for a moment, Adrien simply allowed himself to enjoy the silence, the closeness, without worrying about the future.
He didn’t need to rush anything. Not now. Not when everything felt like it was finally falling into place.

He glanced down at her, his gaze softening as he watched her peaceful expression, the faintest smile tugging at the corners of her lips. The sight of her like this made his heart ache in the best possible way. She was everything he had ever wanted, even if he hadn’t fully realized it until now.
I’ll wait, he thought to himself, the promise forming in his mind. I’ll wait for you, Marinette, because I know this isn’t just about friendship. And when you’re ready, I’ll be here. For you.

A small part of him felt afraid, afraid of ruining their friendship, afraid of taking the next step and not knowing if she would feel the same way. But that fear was nothing compared to the warmth he felt in his chest as he held her close.
For now, he was content. And he would be patient. With Marinette, there was no need to rush. He had all the time in the world.
As he gently stroked her hair, Adrien’s heart swelled with affection. She was safe. She was here. And that was all that mattered.

Adrien's gaze drifted around Marinette's room, his eyes landing on the walls, which were filled with various pictures of him. He had seen these images before, familiar photos from shoots, some from magazine covers, others from advertisements. He knew they were there. Marinette had told him more than once that they were her inspiration, that she looked to them when designing her fashion sketches.
But now, seeing the pictures all around him, something about them felt different. His chest tightened as his mind began to turn over the possibilities.
Marinette had always been a little shy around him, never able to look him in the eye for long, always blushing when they talked, and—especially—when they got too close. She would always stammer and fidget, trying her hardest to push back the nervous energy that seemed to pour out of her whenever he was near. But, despite all that, there were moments like today, when she rested against him, when she showed a different side of herself, a side that seemed more vulnerable, more open.

He knew she admired him, she’d told him that, after all. But what if there was more to it than just admiration? What if the way she acted around him, the way her eyes would dart away when he looked at her, wasn’t just because she was a shy, awkward girl who couldn’t control her nerves? What if, underneath all that, she was feeling something more? Something deeper?
Could it be... Adrien thought, his breath catching in his chest, that Marinette has feelings for me?
The thought lingered in his mind, making his heart race with both excitement and uncertainty. He had always assumed she was just a friend, his best friend, someone he could rely on, someone he could trust. But these little signs, these quiet moments where her behavior seemed to shift, made him question everything.

Could it be that her shyness around him wasn’t just because she was nervous or overwhelmed? Could it be that she was holding back because she was afraid to tell him how she really felt? That maybe she had feelings for him, but didn’t know how to express them?
Adrien shifted slightly, trying to distract himself from his growing thoughts, but they persisted, nagging at him. He couldn’t ignore the way Marinette had looked at him when they were together, the way her gaze softened when their eyes met, the subtle way her hand had relaxed in his. Even now, as she lay against him, she didn’t pull away. She had been so close to him, so calm.
It was as if she wanted to be there with him, but couldn’t fully let go of her fear. Afraid, he thought, of what?

He glanced back at the pictures on the wall, his eyes lingering on one particular shot of him taken during a particularly difficult photoshoot, one where he had been made to wear an uncomfortable suit. It was a good photo, one that captured his model perfection, but it didn’t represent the real him. It didn’t show the boy who struggled with the pressure of his father’s expectations or the weight of his responsibilities. It didn’t capture the Adrien who had longed for something more than the shallow admiration of people who only saw him as the model.

But Marinette? She had always seen him for who he truly was. The way she noticed things, the way she cared so deeply for him, it was something different. More than anything, it was the fact that she had always been there for him, even when he couldn’t bring himself to ask for help.

Adrien's heart swelled with a mixture of longing and tenderness. Marinette had been there for him when no one else had. She had cared for him when everyone else seemed more concerned with his outward appearance, and her kindness had touched him in ways he didn’t know how to express.
He gently ran a hand through her hair again, his fingers brushing over the soft strands as his thoughts continued to spiral. Could it be that I’m the one who’s been blind this whole time? he wondered. Could she have feelings for me?
The more he thought about it, the more he realized how often Marinette had acted in ways that could only be described as tender, as if she wanted to be closer to him but was too afraid to take that final step. The little glances she would give him when she thought he wasn’t looking, the way she would become suddenly shy when they shared a quiet moment, the way she had held onto his hand just a little longer that day after the fencing match...
It’s not just admiration, Adrien thought. She’s afraid to tell me, isn’t she? She’s afraid of being rejected, just like I was. And she’s afraid of what it would mean for our friendship...just like me..

His chest tightened at the thought. What if he had been too blind to see it all along? What if he had misinterpreted everything? But then again, wasn’t it just as likely that he had the same feelings? He had cared for her deeply, long before he fully understood why. He had always admired her strength, her creativity, her ability to stay true to herself no matter what. And now, in this quiet, intimate moment, everything felt so right.
Maybe... just maybe... they were both afraid of the same thing. Afraid of stepping beyond the boundaries of friendship, afraid that the feelings they shared might change everything between them.

Adrien shifted his weight slightly, glancing down at the peaceful expression on Marinette’s face. She looked so serene, so trusting in that moment. It was almost as if she was telling him without words that it was okay, that she was ready for something more, but still too afraid to say it out loud.

His fingers lingered in her hair, and he bent his head slightly, his lips brushing the top of her head in a soft, gentle kiss. The action was tender, unspoken. It was a promise, a quiet vow that he would wait for her, that he would be patient. If Marinette needed time, he was more than willing to give it to her. But in his heart, he knew one thing for sure: he wasn’t going to let this slip away.
Whatever was between them—whatever feelings they both shared—it was worth exploring. It was worth the risk.
And as he closed his eyes, the soft sound of Marinette’s steady breathing beside him filled him with peace.

As Adrien lay there beside Marinette, her soft breathing a steady lull in the background, his thoughts began to drift. It wasn’t just about Marinette anymore. His mind wandered to her—Ladybug. His Lady. His heart thudded in his chest at the thought of her, and a pang of longing washed over him.

He had never believed in love at first sight. But then, he met Ladybug. Her strength, her intelligence, her unwavering sense of justice—it was impossible not to be drawn to her. From the moment he had first laid eyes on her, there was something about her that had captivated him completely. But despite all the moments they shared, all the battles they fought side by side, there was one thing that had always stood between them. Ladybug had made it clear—she was not interested in Chat Noir. Not in the way he wanted.

The truth was, he had pushed too far. His feelings for her had made him reckless, made him more forward than he should have been. And she had been right to pull away. Their falling out had been one of the hardest moments of his life. The rejection had stung more than he had let on. He knew, deep down, that Ladybug had been trying to protect herself, but that didn't make the hurt any less real.
It took time, but they worked things out. Slowly but surely, their partnership grew stronger. They learned to trust each other more than ever before. The tension between them had finally faded, replaced by a solid understanding. They were more in sync than they'd ever been, their bond growing stronger with each mission. They had found their rhythm again, but the thought of Ladybug still lingered in his heart, gnawing at him.

Adrien’s eyes fluttered closed for a moment, and he couldn’t help but think back to that night—the night when everything had shifted. When, as Chat Noir, he had found himself standing on the edge of the building, watching Marinette on her balcony. It had been a quiet night, and the moon hung low in the sky, casting a soft glow over Paris. He wasn’t supposed to be near civilians. His job was to protect them, not get involved in their personal lives. But his feet had moved on their own, his heart pulling him in her direction.
He had spotted Marinette looking upset, her posture tense, her shoulders slumped. Something inside him had shifted. Despite his better judgment, he had climbed up to her balcony, unable to stop himself. He had startled her, and she had turned around in surprise, her expression shifting from confusion to recognition. And that was when she had opened up to him.

“I got my heart broken,” she had whispered softly, her voice barely above a breath.

He had felt a pang in his chest when she said it. For a moment, he had forgotten that he was Chat Noir, that he wasn’t supposed to be so human in that moment. But he had responded in kind. He, too, had gotten his heart broken. “It’s Ladybug,” he had confessed. “She... got mad at me. Threw me in the trash. Literally.”

He hadn’t meant to say it out loud, but the words had tumbled out before he could stop them. His feelings were raw, the frustration of everything they had gone through bubbling to the surface. And yet, somehow, he didn’t feel the usual weight of the secret he carried. Instead, he felt lighter—like Marinette’s pain had somehow connected with his own.

She had looked at him then, a mix of sympathy and something deeper in her gaze. She had seemed so hurt by hearing his words, her eyes softening in a way he hadn’t expected.
Why does she care so much? Adrien had wondered at the time. Why is she so concerned for me?

And that was when something inside him had shifted once more. He didn’t know what compelled him to do it—maybe it was the rawness of their shared pain, the way they both seemed to understand each other in that moment. But without thinking, he had extended his hand and said, “Come with me.”
Before she could say anything, before she could pull away, he had taken Marinette up to a rooftop, one that he had once decorated with candles and rose petals for Ladybug. It had been a gesture that was supposed to woo Ladybug, to express all the feelings he had never truly been able to say out loud. But the irony wasn’t lost on him. He had brought Marinette there instead. The same place meant for Ladybug—only it wasn’t Ladybug who stood beside him now. It was Marinette.

His heart had raced in his chest as he watched her look around, her eyes wide with surprise, as if she was taking in the significance of the moment. She hadn’t said anything at first, but the silence between them was comfortable, almost peaceful.
He had told her about the decorations. “This was supposed to be for Ladybug,” he had confessed, his voice heavy with regret. “But... I guess I just wanted to do something special for her. Something she could never forget. But now...” He had paused, glancing over at Marinette, “... now I’m glad you’re here. You deserve this too. Maybe more than anyone.”

Marinette had given him a soft, wistful smile, though there was a trace of sadness in her eyes. It was in that moment that Adrien realized something he hadn’t fully understood before. The night wasn’t about Ladybug. It wasn’t about impressing her or winning her heart. It was about helping Marinette. She had been broken, just like he had, and he had wanted to comfort her in a way that only he could.

And that was when it hit him, he hadn’t just been looking to impress Ladybug. Somewhere deep down, he had known that his feelings for Marinette had been growing, even if he hadn’t fully understood it yet. Something about the way she had looked at him, something about the way she cared about him, had made him feel seen. It was as though she understood him in a way no one else did. She saw beyond the mask he wore—both as Chat Noir and as Adrien.
Why did I bring her there? Adrien thought now, his fingers idly tracing a strand of Marinette’s hair. Maybe I needed to show her that, like me, she deserves to be loved, to be understood... and maybe I needed to prove to myself that I could open my heart to someone other than Ladybug.

His heart clenched, and for a moment, he closed his eyes. The feelings were complicated, tangled. He didn’t want to hurt Ladybug—he never had—but he couldn’t ignore the pull he felt toward Marinette. She was so much more than he had ever realized. She had always been there, quietly, patiently, helping him piece his heart back together every time it had shattered.
But now... now things were different.

Adrien exhaled, feeling the weight of the moment press against him. Ladybug was still in his heart. That would never change. But what he felt for Marinette... it wasn’t just about admiration anymore. It wasn’t just friendship. He knew that now.
And as he looked down at the girl sleeping beside him, he couldn’t help but wonder: Would she ever let me in?
But for now, as her head rested against his shoulder, he let himself simply be—with her, beside her. The future could wait. Right now, they both had time. Time to heal. Time to understand. Time to see what might unfold.

As Marinette stirred softly in her sleep, Adrien’s heart tightened. The way her head rested against his shoulder, the warmth of her breath against his skin...it made everything inside him feel... right.

He glanced down at her, her peaceful expression a stark contrast to the turmoil that had been brewing inside him for so long. Adrien’s chest ached with a need to tell her everything, to finally let go of all the secrets he had been holding in for so long. He wanted to tell her that he was Chat Noir. He wanted to show her just how much he trusted her, how deeply he cared for her, how much she meant to him.
But the words stuck in his throat, unspoken.
He was so close. The desire to open up, to let her in, was overwhelming. Marinette deserved to know. She deserved to understand who he truly was—not just Adrien, the son of the Agreste family, but Chat Noir, the one who fought beside Ladybug in the darkness of Paris.
She had seen his pain, shared in his confusion, and yet, she still had managed to reach him in ways no one else ever could.

But telling her... that would change everything.

Adrien exhaled quietly, his fingers brushing against her hair, a soft touch that barely disturbed her. He couldn’t do it. Not now. Not yet.

Ladybug… His mind whispered her name in the silence between them. His thoughts flickered back to their promises, their vows to protect their identities, to keep their true selves hidden. It wasn’t just a matter of trust, it was about safety. If Marinette knew, if she understood the depths of his secret, it would be a risk. A huge risk. The dangers of his identity being discovered weren’t something he could take lightly. If anyone found out that he was Chat Noir, if the wrong people learned of their connection, the consequences could be catastrophic—not just for him, but for everyone he loved.
No, he thought. I can’t. Not now. Not ever.

It frustrated him. The thought of keeping this part of himself hidden, even from her, felt suffocating. But he knew deep down that he had no choice. Their superhero identities, their secret lives—they had to remain protected. For her safety, for Ladybug’s, for Paris’s. For everyone.

Adrien closed his eyes, his hand gently brushing a strand of hair from Marinette's face. I wish I could tell you, Marinette, he thought, his chest heavy. I wish I could be honest with you. You’ve been so kind to me, so understanding. But this secret—it’s not just mine to share. It's Ladybug’s, too. And I won't betray her trust. Not for anything.

As his gaze lingered on Marinette’s face, the warmth of her sleeping form pressed into his side, a pang of longing filled him. He wanted to lean down, whisper those words to her—I’m Chat Noir—to see the surprise in her eyes, to let her understand the depth of his feelings. But as much as his heart ached to tell her, he couldn’t risk it. If he told her, everything would change, and not necessarily for the better.

Marinette stirred again, and Adrien quickly pulled his thoughts back to the present. He couldn’t lose himself in this. He couldn’t dwell on what could never be. He needed to focus on the here and now, on being the best friend he could be to her.

As Marinette shifted again, her eyes slowly fluttering open, Adrien straightened slightly, his heart hammering just a little bit faster. Her gaze met his, still hazy from sleep, but her lips curled into the faintest of smiles.
“Adrien...?” Her voice was soft, still weighed down by the remnants of sleep.

“Hey,” he said gently, his voice barely above a whisper. “How are you feeling?”

She blinked, her bluebell eyes hazy for a moment before they focused on him, her expression softening. “Better... but still a little dizzy.” She hesitated, then added with a hint of embarrassment, “I didn’t realize I’d fall asleep on you.”

Adrien smiled softly, brushing a hand through her hair, the touch lingering for just a moment too long. “It’s okay. You needed the rest.” His heart tightened in his chest, but he forced a smile, knowing it was the best thing he could offer right now.

Marinette looked up at him, studying his face, as though searching for something more, but Adrien knew she wouldn’t find anything but concern and warmth there. He didn’t want to hide behind a mask, but there were things he couldn’t reveal.

She glanced down at her hands for a moment, and when she spoke again, her voice was quieter, more uncertain. “Adrien... why are you so nice to me? I mean, after everything, I never thought...”

He raised an eyebrow, his gaze softening. “What do you mean?”

She bit her lip, hesitant. “I’ve been... so awkward around you, so shy. I’ve stammered and kept my distance. And you’ve always been kind to me, even when I act so strange.”

Adrien’s heart did a little flip in his chest. She notices. He felt a strange mix of joy and sadness at the same time. How could he explain the storm of emotions inside him when he looked at her, when he saw her vulnerability, her kindness, her heart?
“I guess... I guess I just see the real you,” he said quietly, his voice softer than usual. “You’re not the awkward girl you think you are. You’re kind, and you always care about others, even when you don’t have to.”

Marinette looked up at him, a faint blush coloring her cheeks, but she didn’t pull away this time. Instead, she allowed herself to stay close, her breath steady against his skin.

'Maybe I don’t need to say everything right now,' Adrien thought, his gaze lingering on her face, 'Maybe, just maybe, this is enough for now. Maybe... one day, I’ll be able to tell you everything. But until then... I’ll be here for you.'

Adrien reluctantly pulled his gaze away from Marinette, his heart heavy as the realization hit him: he couldn’t stay here forever. He couldn’t let this moment linger any longer, no matter how much he wished it could.

He glanced at the time on his phone, and a pit formed in his stomach. His father, Gabriel Agreste, would expect him home soon. Adrien could already feel the weight of his father’s expectations pressing down on him. It had been a rare instance of peace, this time spent with Marinette. But peace wasn’t something that lasted for long in his world. It never did.

"Marinette..." Adrien started, his voice gentle but tinged with regret. He leaned slightly away from her, careful not to disrupt her as she rested against him, her breathing still soft and steady.

She blinked up at him, confusion clouding her tired eyes. "What’s wrong?"

"I... I have to go." Adrien’s words were quiet, as though speaking them made it more real. "My dad will be angry if I stay out too late."

Marinette frowned, the slight smile she had worn moments before disappearing. She pulled away from him slowly, sitting up. "Oh... I see."

Adrien couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt. The way her face dropped at his words made his chest tighten. She wasn’t upset—she never really was—but there was something in the way she looked at him that made him feel like he was letting her down. He hated it.

"I’m sorry," he said quietly, running a hand through his blonde hair. "I wish I could stay longer, but I really have to go. You know how he is." Adrien wasn’t sure if he was apologizing for leaving or for the life he had to live, the one that kept pulling him away from moments like this. From moments with Marinette.

She nodded, a small, understanding smile pulling at her lips. "I get it. Your father’s... important." She paused for a moment before looking at him again, her eyes soft. "I’ll be fine. I promise."

Adrien wanted to stay. He wanted to sit here, just like this, for a little longer, maybe just a few more minutes. But the thought of his father’s cold, disapproving stare was enough to snap him back into reality. He knew better than to test Gabriel’s patience.
"Thank you," he whispered, taking her hand for a moment before slowly pulling away. "I’ll check in on you tomorrow, okay? You need to rest and get better."

Marinette gave him a small, reassuring nod, though her eyes were sadder than he liked. "Okay. Take care, Adrien."

"I will," he promised, giving her a smile that he hoped seemed sincere, though he was sure it was tinged with guilt. "I’ll see you soon, Marinette."

As Adrien stood up, he moved toward the door, but before he could leave, Marinette called out to him.
"Adrien," she said, her voice barely a whisper.

He paused, turning back to her. "Yeah?"

She hesitated for a second, looking down at her hands before meeting his eyes again. "Thank you. For everything today... for being here when I needed you."

Adrien felt his chest tighten again, and for a moment, he was unsure of what to say. But in the end, he only nodded. "I’ll always be here for you, Marinette. Don’t forget that."

With a final glance, he turned and walked out of her room, closing the door gently behind him. The moment the door clicked shut, he felt the weight of his father’s looming presence pressing against him once more. It wasn’t just his father’s disappointment that weighed on him; it was the crushing sense of duty that had been drilled into him since childhood. The constant reminder that he wasn’t really free. Not like Marinette.
As he stepped out of the Dupain-Cheng bakery and into the cool Paris evening, Adrien couldn’t help but feel like he was leaving a piece of himself behind. He’d been with Marinette, and for a few moments, he’d felt like a person. Like himself.
But now, he was going back to his life—his other life—the one where he was Adrien Agreste, the son of a powerful businessman, the model, the heir to a legacy. And Chat Noir. But as much as he wanted to stay, as much as he wanted to tell Marinette everything, he couldn’t. His life was complicated, tangled with secrets that couldn’t be shared, even with her.

As Adrien walked toward the waiting car, the sound of its engine running already signifying the beginning of his next duty, he found himself thinking about her again.

He just wished he could be the person she needed him to be.
But first, I need to be the son my father wants me to be.

Adrien climbed into the car, his body rigid, his mind still on Marinette. His father’s presence was suffocating as soon as the door closed. Gabriel Agreste didn’t speak, as usual, but Adrien could feel his father's eyes on him, sharp and calculating.
"Make sure you stay on track. Your career doesn’t wait for you, Adrien. You’ll have to work even harder to meet the expectations I’ve set for you."

Adrien nodded, trying not to let the anger rise in him. He hated this—hated the way his father treated him as an asset, a tool to be used for his plans. But there was nothing he could do.
As the car moved through the streets of Paris, Adrien glanced out the window, his mind drifting back to Marinette.
The girl who had seen through the mask he wore.
The girl who had become so much more than just his friend.

And, as he sat in the backseat of the car, the weight of his duties crashing back down on him, Adrien made a silent vow to himself: One day, I’ll tell you everything, Marinette. One day, I’ll show you the real me.
For now, though, the best he could do was keep her safe—keep her close, even if he couldn’t tell her the truth.
He just hoped it was enough.

Chapter Text

The night air was cool and refreshing, a gentle breeze ruffling Marinette’s hair as she leaned against the railing of her balcony, looking up at the stars. She was still recovering, her head a dull throb of discomfort that she could mostly ignore now, but the sense of calm that had settled over her after Adrien's visit earlier that day lingered. His words, his kindness—it had all wrapped around her like a warm blanket, making her feel cared for in a way she hadn’t realized she needed.

As she stared up at the sky, trying to focus on the constellations rather than the ache in her head, a soft landing sound startled her. She turned quickly, her heart skipping a beat as she saw a familiar silhouette.

"Chat Noir?" Marinette blinked, her eyes adjusting to the figure that had suddenly appeared on her balcony. Her breath caught in her throat, and for a moment, she wasn’t sure whether she was still dreaming or not.

Chat grinned, his eyes glinting in the moonlight, though something in his stance was... a little more off than usual. His tail flicked behind him nervously as he observed her.

"Hey, Marinette," Chat greeted, his voice a little too casual. "How’s your head doing?"

Marinette's eyes widened in surprise. "How do you know about that? About my accident?"

She had expected him to show up, maybe to check in as he did every once in a while, but this—this level of knowledge caught her off guard. Her thoughts immediately raced. Chat Noir had never been one to ask so personally about her well-being before, especially something so specific, and it made her suspicious, just a little. How could he possibly know?

Chat’s grin faltered for a brief second, and Marinette noticed his posture stiffen slightly, as if he’d made a mistake. He quickly recovered, his usual swagger returning as he cleared his throat and gave her a mischievous look.
"Oh, you know," he said smoothly, "I overheard Alya and Nino talking about it while I was on patrol. You know how those two can be... can't keep anything quiet."

Marinette raised an eyebrow, not entirely convinced, but she decided not to press him further. She had never been able to figure out how Chat managed to always appear when something was happening. It was one of his many mysteries.

She smiled, trying to brush off the unease that flickered in her chest. "I’m fine, really. It’s just a little sore. I’m sure it’ll be gone in a day or two."

Chat looked at her with narrowed eyes, his expression softening. "I’m glad to hear that. You scared me there for a bit. But, hey, maybe I can help."

Before Marinette could react, Chat took a step closer, his movements deliberate, and to her surprise, he wrapped his arms around her gently. He wasn’t crushing her into some dramatic hero hug—no, it was soft and almost comforting. He was holding her as if he could feel how fragile she still was, like he wanted to help, but wasn’t sure how.

Marinette froze for a second, her heart pounding in her chest. Was this happening? Chat Noir was... hugging her? Her hands twitched, unsure whether she should place them on his chest or keep them by her sides. She couldn’t bring herself to pull away, though, not when his warmth felt so genuine.

Then, to her utter shock, she heard him purr.

She blinked, pulling back slightly. Her face flushed a deep shade of red. "Wait... did you just... purr?" she asked, her voice a little incredulous, as if she hadn’t heard it properly.

Chat stiffened, his tail flicking nervously behind him. He glanced away, and Marinette saw a faint blush spread across his cheeks beneath his mask.

"Ah... uh... y-yeah? I mean..." He cleared his throat awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck, the playful tone gone from his voice. "A cat’s purr is supposed to have a healing effect. So, uh, I thought it might help your head, you know?"

Marinette blinked a few times, the surrealness of the situation not lost on her. "A healing purr?" she echoed, still trying to process it. It was oddly endearing, and the thought of Chat caring enough to... purr for her made her heart flutter, despite how ridiculous it sounded.

"Yeah..." he stammered, clearly embarrassed now. "I, uh, read somewhere that purring can ease pain. So... I thought I’d try it. I mean... I do have the whole cat thing going for me, right?" His grin returned, though this time it was laced with nervousness.

Marinette couldn’t help but laugh, the sound light and airy despite the strange circumstances. "That’s... kind of sweet, actually," she said, her voice softening as she relaxed into the embrace.

Chat's arms tightened around her slightly, as though he wanted to protect her from whatever might come next. The purring, while still a little strange, had a strange comfort to it. She could almost feel the ache in her head fading away, her mind calmed by his presence.

But even as Marinette began to relax, a small part of her mind couldn’t help but notice the odd, almost desperate urgency in Chat’s behavior. It was as though he was clinging to this moment just as much as she was, and it made her wonder why.
"You’re a lot more... gentle than I thought," Marinette murmured, her voice soft and almost affectionate. She didn’t mean to say it out loud, but it slipped out anyway.

Chat’s tail swished, but he didn’t pull away. "I’m full of surprises," he teased, though his tone was less playful now, more... real. "You just don’t get to see them all that often."

For a long moment, neither of them spoke. The night air seemed to hold its breath around them as the stars twinkled softly above, the city below bustling with life—but here, on her balcony, everything felt quieter, stiller, safer.

Marinette shifted slightly, her head still resting gently against his chest, as the purring reverberated through her. She closed her eyes, letting herself be lost in the sensation of comfort that Chat was providing. It felt... almost normal. Almost like something she had dreamed of without knowing it.

"You know," Chat began quietly after a long pause, "if you ever need someone to talk to... or just... to be here for you... I’m always around." He didn’t say it as Chat Noir, but as someone who truly cared, his voice filled with a sincerity Marinette rarely heard from him. "You don’t have to face things alone."

Marinette’s heart fluttered again, but she didn’t respond immediately. She didn’t know how to say the words without confusing everything further. But in that moment, with Chat holding her close and his purring lulling her into a peaceful calm, she realized one thing: she didn’t need to say anything.
She just needed to be in the moment, as it was.

"Thank you," she whispered, barely audible. "For everything."

The night had fallen silent, save for the gentle rustling of the leaves in the breeze and the distant hum of the city. On the balcony, Marinette sat with Chat Noir, her mind still a whirl of thoughts, but somehow, everything felt... quieter. Safe. And in that calm, she found herself doing things she never would have imagined before.

Chat Noir, ever so graceful despite his usual playful demeanor, had shifted in such a way that he now lay on his back, his head comfortably resting in her lap. He stared up at her, his emerald eyes sparkling like stars in the darkened sky. There was a serenity in his gaze, as if the world itself had faded away, leaving only the two of them.

Marinette's heart fluttered at the sight of him, at the vulnerability he had allowed her to witness. It was a side of him she rarely saw, and it made her chest tighten in a way she couldn’t quite explain. His usual confidence was still there, but it was gentler, softer now. He trusted her. And somehow, that made her feel special in ways she wasn’t used to.
As she sat there, the night air cool on her skin, her fingers instinctively moved toward his ears. She hadn’t meant to, but the sight of his soft, twitching cat ears made her fingers itch with curiosity. Gently, she ran the tips of her fingers along the edges of them, marveling at how soft they were. They twitched under her touch, causing Chat to purr lightly. It was almost hypnotic, the sound of his contentment.
His tail, ever the playful thing, wrapped around her waist, curling possessively. He seemed at ease, allowing her to touch him with no hesitation. Marinette couldn’t help but smile, despite the blush creeping onto her cheeks. There was something undeniably sweet about him—something about the way he let her into his world, even if just for a moment.

With a soft chuckle, Marinette’s fingers wandered, curiosity getting the best of her. She traced along the outline of his leather bodysuit, feeling the smooth material beneath her fingertips. She was aware of the firm muscles that shifted under the fabric, his chest, strong and solid beneath her hand. Her breath caught slightly, heat flooding her face. She quickly pulled her hand back, feeling embarrassed for even letting herself think about it.

Chat noticed the change in her, his eyes flicking up toward her, but he didn't pull away or show any signs of discomfort. He seemed completely at ease, completely relaxed with her touch. When her fingers brushed over his claws, he allowed her to examine them closely, fascinated by the way the light danced off the sharp edges. He trusted her, and in that trust, he was completely calm, as if everything else in the world had fallen away.

It was then that her fingers accidentally brushed over the small, familiar ring on his finger—his Miraculous. The one that, when removed, would reveal his true identity as Chat Noir. Marinette froze, her heart stopping for a brief moment. She could have grabbed it. She could have yanked it off his finger and learned everything—the truth, the secret behind the mask. But she didn’t. She couldn’t.

He didn’t flinch. Not even for a second. He just allowed her to touch him, knowing she wouldn’t betray his trust. And it was then, in that moment, that Marinette realized something—he trusted her completely.
Despite the rules, despite the danger, he allowed her this closeness. He was breaking every protocol, every rule that kept civilians and superheroes apart. And yet, here they were, together, at peace.

Marinette swallowed, the weight of the moment settling deep in her chest. This wasn’t supposed to happen. She wasn’t supposed to be this close to him—especially not like this. He was Chat Noir, a superhero, and she was just... Marinette. She had to remind herself of that fact, to not get carried away by the connection building between them. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. Superheroes and civilians weren’t meant to interact in such a way.
But as her hand moved through his hair—surprisingly soft, soft in a way that didn’t match his wild, carefree persona—Marinette realized something else. She didn’t want to stop. She didn’t want to pull away from him, to end this unexpected moment of serenity.

Chat’s purring slowed, his breathing evening out, and as the minutes passed, Marinette felt the tension leave his body entirely. He was so relaxed now, so at peace, that he was even drifting into sleep. She continued to run her fingers through his hair, her touch gentle and slow as she found herself memorizing the way he felt—how his hair moved beneath her hand, how his breath evened out, how his tail curled tighter around her waist as he sought more comfort.

Marinette felt at peace too. She didn’t want this moment to end. No words were needed. The silence between them, the warmth, the closeness, everything felt like it made sense. In his presence, all the chaos of her life seemed to fade into the background, and she could simply be.

Chat Noir had brought peace into her life when she had least expected it. And in that quiet space, she found herself wishing that she could stay here forever, in this bubble they had created.
If only it didn’t come with the heavy weight of unspoken truths, of secrets they could never share.

But for now, Marinette simply enjoyed the moment. Because tonight, she was just Marinette, and he was just Chat Noir—two souls who had found something in each other that neither of them could quite put into words.
She smiled softly, continuing to run her fingers through his hair, and whispered just loud enough for him to hear, "You’re not so bad, you know."

Chat Noir’s tail swished lazily in approval, and though his eyes were closed, she could tell from his quiet chuckle that he was pleased.

Marinette’s heart thudded in her chest as she gently caressed Chat Noir’s cheek, her fingertips grazing the soft skin beneath his mask. He purred softly in response, his body relaxing further into her embrace. His warmth seeped into her, calming her racing thoughts and the lingering ache in her head. She let out a quiet sigh of contentment as she leaned down, wrapping her arms around his head in a tender embrace.
The feeling of holding him like this, so close, so trusting, filled her with an unexpected sense of peace. It was as if everything in the world had faded away, leaving only the two of them, cocooned in the gentle embrace of the night.

Chat Noir nuzzled closer, seeking more of her warmth, his breath soft and steady. His presence was so comforting, like the soft glow of a candle in the dark. He didn’t need words to communicate how much he trusted her—his actions spoke louder than any declaration ever could. She felt that trust deep in her bones, and it made her heart ache in the most bittersweet way.

Marinette gazed down at him with intense fondness, her fingers lightly brushing through his hair once more. Her eyes lingered on his lips. It was only for a moment, but it felt like an eternity. She couldn’t help it. Her gaze was drawn to the curve of his lips, the slight parting of them as he slept soundly in her arms. Her breath caught in her throat as she realized how close they were, how much she longed to feel his warmth, to close the distance between them.

Her heart skipped a beat. She blinked, her cheeks flushing as a wave of unexpected emotions flooded her. What was she thinking? Her mind raced, her thoughts colliding in confusion. She was in love with Adrien. She had been for what felt like forever. She couldn’t be developing feelings for Chat Noir—could she? No, it wasn’t possible. Chat Noir was a superhero, someone she only saw in the dark of night, someone she knew only by his actions and his cat-like charm. He wasn’t Adrien.

But the feelings were there, undeniable. Marinette quickly looked away, her breath shaky as she tried to suppress the overwhelming wave of emotions threatening to spill over. No, she thought firmly, I can’t let myself feel this way about Chat Noir. It’s wrong. I’m in love with Adrien. I always have been.
But then, why was she so comfortable with Chat Noir? Why didn’t she feel the same nervousness around him that she always felt when she was near Adrien? Why wasn’t she stammering, blushing uncontrollably, or rushing away from him in panic, like she always did with Adrien?

With Chat Noir, she could just be herself. She could relax, laugh, and feel at ease. He made her feel seen—not as a shy, awkward girl with a crush, but as someone who had the ability to exist in the moment, without any pressure. And yet… she couldn’t help but feel a pang in her chest, the conflicted feelings that surged through her.

She wanted to kiss him. The thought had been a fleeting, irrational urge, but it was there nonetheless. But that was a thought she quickly pushed aside. She had never imagined herself feeling this way toward Chat Noir, and now that it had appeared so suddenly, it made her head spin.

Marinette swallowed, trying to push the confusion aside. She was in love with Adrien. He was the one she had always dreamed of being with, the one who made her heart race with every glance. But Chat Noir? She wasn’t supposed to want this. She wasn’t supposed to want him this way. And yet… she couldn’t deny that a part of her was already lost in him.

Her fingers trembled slightly as they ran through his hair again, her gaze softening. It was strange. She couldn’t bring herself to regret the moments she spent with him—those small, intimate exchanges that felt right in a way she couldn’t explain. She wanted to be near him, to make him feel as safe and calm as he had made her feel.
But still, her heart belonged to Adrien. It always had. She had never thought about anyone else this way. So why, then, did this ache in her chest persist when she was with Chat Noir?

Marinette’s thoughts were interrupted by a soft noise—Chat Noir’s quiet purring. His body shifted slightly, and before she could react, he nuzzled his head deeper into her lap, clearly seeking more of her attention. His presence was so gentle, so comforting. And as she continued to stroke his hair, the conflicted feelings inside her slowly settled into a sense of quiet understanding.

Perhaps she didn’t need to have all the answers right now. Perhaps it was enough to simply exist in the moment with him, to enjoy the peace he brought her. It didn’t have to be complicated. After all, life was messy, and feelings were messy. She didn’t need to have it all figured out tonight.

With a soft sigh, Marinette rested her head against the balcony railing, staring at the stars above. The city below her seemed so far away, like a distant world she couldn’t quite touch. But here, with Chat Noir, everything felt... simpler.

The sound of his purring lulled her into a quiet contentment, and for the first time in a while, Marinette allowed herself to drift away from the chaos of her thoughts. Tonight, she would simply be. She would enjoy his company, let her heart settle, and allow the connection between them to remain unspoken, but real.
And with that, Marinette closed her eyes, letting the warmth of Chat Noir’s presence wash over her, accepting that some questions were better left unanswered for now.

The soft sounds of the night echoed around the rooftop as Chat Noir slowly stirred, blinking up at the sky. He shifted carefully, trying not to disturb Marinette as she slept soundly with her head gently resting against his, her breath warm and peaceful.
It felt surreal, being here with her like this. He hadn’t expected to fall asleep in her arms, but something about the way she held him, the way she ran her fingers through his hair, had lulled him into a sense of peace he rarely ever found. His green eyes glanced at her now, her face relaxed and serene in her sleep, her soft breathing a quiet rhythm that seemed to sync with his own.
His heart swelled a little, but he couldn’t stay forever. She needs to rest, he reminded himself, reluctant to leave her side, but knowing that he had to. She’s safe now.

With the utmost care, he shifted his body, slowly and gently easing himself out of her embrace. The last thing he wanted was to disturb her, but as he moved, her arms instinctively tightened around him. He paused, looking down at her with a soft smile, his heart thudding in his chest. For a moment, he just stared at her, the girl who had unknowingly captured his heart in ways he still couldn’t quite understand.
But he had to get her to bed.
He carefully lifted her, cradling her in his arms, being mindful of her still-slightly sore head. Marinette shifted in her sleep, her body leaning against him as though finding comfort in his presence even while unconscious. Chat Noir’s arms tightened protectively around her as he leaped through the trap door, making his way inside.
The soft moonlight bathed the room in silver as he gently placed her on the bed, her body still relaxed, unaware of the shift. He tucked her in carefully, pulling the covers up to her chin, making sure she was as comfortable as possible.

It was only then, as his gaze flickered to her pillow, that he noticed something that had been hidden before, something that made him pause.
Lying just behind her pillow, resting in a small bundle, was a plush. A medium sized black cat with green eyes, almost identical to the way he looked. His heart skipped a beat as he recognized the plush’s features, particularly the small bell that dangled from its collar. It was an almost exact replica of Chat Noir himself.

Chat’s gaze softened as he reached over and carefully picked up the plush, inspecting it. The stitching was impeccable, the fabric soft to the touch, and it had that warm, comforting scent of someone who had spent time lovingly creating it. He couldn’t help but wonder if she had made it herself. Did Marinette make this? he thought, a smile tugging at his lips. It seemed so personal, so thoughtful.

For a moment, he just stood there, studying the plush, feeling a strange sense of pride, as though she had somehow captured him in a form so endearing and sweet. It felt like a piece of her had been stitched into it, a piece of herself that she wanted to hold on to.

With a small chuckle, Chat Noir carefully placed the plush in her arms, making sure it fit comfortably against her chest. As soon as it touched her, Marinette’s arms automatically wrapped around it, hugging it tightly as if recognizing its presence even in her sleep. Her body instinctively curled around the plush, and her lips parted in a soft, barely audible giggle that melted Chat Noir’s heart.

She’s so adorable… he thought, his chest tightening at the sight. He had never seen her like this before—so peaceful, so content, her genuine, unguarded self on full display.

Marinette’s murmurs floated up to his ears, soft and sweet, as she snuggled closer into the plush. “You’re the best… sweet kitty…” she whispered, her voice barely above a breath. She nuzzled the plush gently, like it was a lifeline, a source of comfort.

Chat Noir felt like his heart was going to explode in his chest. He could barely breathe, overcome by how utterly endearing and precious the sight was. She had no idea how close she was to the truth, how much she was unknowingly pulling him in deeper with every simple gesture. He couldn’t believe she was holding him—her sweet “kitty”—without even realizing it.

He was Chat Noir. And somehow, she had found a way into his heart, even without knowing who he really was. Even when he had kept himself hidden behind a mask, pretending to be just a superhero, a cat who came and went with the night.
But with Marinette, it felt different. And it wasn’t just about the fact that she had made the plush. It was the way she trusted him. The way she let him in. He could never explain it fully, not yet. But she was a piece of him now, and he couldn’t imagine letting her go.

For a long moment, Chat Noir just stood there, watching her sleep. The soft sounds of her breathing, the way her fingers held onto the plush, the way she smiled ever so slightly in her sleep, everything about this moment was perfect.
But he knew he had to leave. He couldn’t stay.

Marinette needed her rest, and as much as he wanted to linger, he had to respect her space.
He leaned down one last time, brushing a strand of hair from her forehead, his fingers gentle against her skin. “Sweet dreams, Marinette,” he whispered, his voice barely audible. “You’re so much more than you realize.”

Then, with a final glance, Chat Noir turned to leave, the weight of the moment resting on his heart. As he slipped out of her room and back into the night, he couldn’t help but smile to himself. There was something so special about Marinette—something he would never be able to put into words.
For now, though, he would have to keep his feelings locked away, just like his identity. But perhaps one day he would be able to tell her everything.

Chapter Text

Marinette lay back against her pillows, clutching her plushie tighter as if it could somehow ground her thoughts. The soft, black fabric of the cat plushie felt almost like it was keeping her tethered to reality, though it wasn’t quite enough to shake the lingering warmth of the dream—or was it real? Her heart thudded in her chest as she replayed the sensation of running her fingers through Chat Noir's hair. The memory of how soft it had felt, how his body had been warm against hers, felt too vivid to be just a dream.
No, it was a dream, she told herself firmly. It couldn’t have been anything more. But the feeling of missing him—of longing for the quiet moments they’d shared—was still there. Even more confusing was the fact that the person she really wanted was sitting across from her every day, smiling at her and offering her a hand whenever she stumbled, but in this case, he was not Chat Noir.

The image of Adrien’s worried face as he’d helped her to the nurse's office replayed in her mind. How gentle he’d been when he’d noticed her dizziness and insisted on walking her there, never once letting go of her arm. And the way he’d stayed with her until her parents arrived—so considerate, so kind. Adrien was everything any girl could ask for. Yet, there was something missing, something that made her heart flutter every time she saw Chat Noir. The two were so different. Chat Noir was wild, unpredictable, and so free. Adrien, on the other hand, was thoughtful, careful, and everything she could ever want in a friend… and maybe even more.

Stop it, Marinette, she scolded herself. She didn’t need to mix up her feelings for the two. She didn’t need to add complication to the already tangled web of her life.

But there was that moment yesterday, that soft, fleeting moment where Adrien had looked at her with something more than friendship in his eyes. Had he noticed it too?
Was it possible he felt the same spark between them that she felt, even if it was buried beneath layers of confusion?
The thought made her stomach twist in a knot, a mixture of nervousness and excitement bubbling up inside of her. She had never been good at reading the signs when it came to matters of the heart. Adrien was always so kind and attentive, but was that just who he was? Or was it something more? And what about Chat Noir? Did he feel the same pull between them? Or had their bond been something entirely different, something unspoken but understood?

This is impossible, Marinette sighed, standing up and stretching. She couldn’t keep going around in circles like this. She had a life to live, and as much as she adored both Adrien and Chat Noir, she couldn’t spend every day lost in fantasies and doubts.

Still, as she glanced out the window, her fingers brushed the soft, familiar shape of the plushie. She wondered, just for a moment, if maybe the dream wasn’t as impossible as it seemed.

Marinette felt the heat rise in her cheeks as her mind replayed the memory of falling asleep in Adrien's arms. The gentleness with which he held her, his warm embrace wrapping around her like a safety net, it was too much for her heart to handle. Adrien, the guy who had been the object of her affection for months, had held her like that. And she hadn’t even realized she’d fallen asleep in his arms! She felt her face grow even hotter as she tried to shake off the thought. Get a grip, Marinette! she mentally scolded herself.

Just then, the knock on her door broke her from her thoughts. She blinked and quickly wiped the warmth from her face, hoping Adrien hadn't seen her blush. But when she opened the door, there he was, standing in the doorway with that familiar smile, his concerned eyes scanning her face as he asked, “Hey, Marinette. How’re you feeling? I just wanted to check on you... Are you able to come to school today?”

Marinette nodded, trying to push down the anxiety rising in her chest. “I should be okay. It’s just a little bit of dizziness now,” she answered, hoping she didn’t sound too out of it. Her heart raced, and she felt both relieved and nervous at the same time.

Adrien smiled at her, a small glint of concern still in his eyes, but his smile softened. “Well, I’m glad to hear you’re feeling better. I was thinking... if you’re ready to go, I could give you a ride to school today. You know, so you don’t have to worry about anything.”

Marinette’s heart skipped a beat. A ride? In his limousine? With him? A thousand thoughts rushed through her head, but one thing was for sure: she couldn’t say no. “That... That sounds nice,” she managed to say, her voice almost squeaking with nerves. “I’d like that, actually.”

Adrien grinned, clearly pleased with her answer. “Great! I’ll be right here. Let me know when you’re ready.”

After a few minutes of gathering her things, Marinette was ready, though her mind was in a state of utter chaos. She had to keep it together. She could do this. It’s just a ride to school, she told herself, but everything felt like it had just gone from normal to completely surreal.

As they stepped into the back of the limousine, Marinette’s heart hammered against her chest. Adrien sat beside her, and the soft hum of the car’s engine filled the space between them. Marinette glanced down, realizing with horror that she hadn’t let go of the black cat plush she had made. It was still clutched tightly to her chest. Her face turned crimson as she quickly fumbled to hide it in her school bag, but before she could manage to tuck it away, Adrien’s voice broke the silence.

“So uh,” he began, his voice casual, though there was a hint of amusement in it. “I see you’re a fan of Chat Noir?” He tilted his head slightly, the mischievous sparkle in his eyes sending a wave of heat through Marinette’s body. “Did you make that yourself? It’s adorable,” he added, his gaze fixed on the plushie, and he reached out, gently flicking the small bell attached to its collar.

Marinette froze. Oh no. She could feel her heart thudding in her chest, and the blush creeping up her neck was nearly unbearable. Her mind raced as she tried to come up with a response, but the only thing she managed to say was, “I, um... I... uh...” She groaned internally. Why did you have to say that, Adrien? She was certain she’d stuttered her way into a mess.

“Sorry,” Adrien said, his smile widening as he noticed the flush spreading across her cheeks. “I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. It’s just... It’s really cute. And I was wondering if you made it yourself because it kind of looks like him, you know?” He grinned a little, leaning back against the seat as the car sped through the streets of Paris.

Marinette’s stomach flipped. Did he just say that? It took everything in her not to completely collapse into a pile of awkwardness. He couldn’t possibly know that this plushie resembled Chat Noir, could he? There was no way. She’d made sure it didn’t look too obvious. Still, the thought of Adrien connecting the dots made her feel like her world was spinning even faster.

“W-well,” she started, her voice a little shaky, “I... I, um, just like black cats, and... I thought it would be a nice thing to... make. A-and, uh, I’m a big fan of Chat Noir, so... you know, it just... seemed like a good idea.”

Adrien chuckled softly, the sound so light and carefree that Marinette felt a little at ease despite herself. “I get it,” he said, his eyes glimmering with a mixture of teasing and admiration. “I’m just glad you like it.” He shot her a playful grin, his tone still warm, but there was something more in the way he looked at her, a gentle curiosity, something she couldn’t quite place. “I’m sure Chat Noir would be flattered to know someone made a plushie like that.”

Marinette’s breath caught in her throat. Chat Noir? Flattered? Was he... joking? Or was he saying that because he suspected something? She couldn’t tell, and it only made her more nervous. The ride to school seemed to stretch on forever as her mind swirled with a dozen questions she was too afraid to ask.

As the car pulled up in front of the school, Marinette took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. “Thanks for the ride, Adrien,” she said, her voice soft but genuine.

“No problem,” he replied with a smile that made her stomach flutter. “I’ll see you inside, right?”

Marinette nodded quickly, not trusting herself to speak further. As she stepped out of the limousine, she couldn’t help but wonder if today would be the day when everything would change, when Adrien would finally figure out the secret she’d been keeping from him for so long.

As they walked through the school gates and entered the building, Marinette couldn’t help but feel the nerves begin to settle, albeit slowly. Her heart was still racing, her mind spinning from the earlier encounter in the limousine.

What was that? she wondered. What did it all mean? Her hand instinctively went to her bag, where the black cat plushie—Chat Noir’s miniature likeness—was tucked away safely. She’d been holding it so tightly during the ride, trying to keep it hidden, trying to pretend it wasn’t a part of her at all. Yet, it was, and there was no denying it.

Adrien walked beside her, his usual bright smile still in place, though there was a certain playful glint in his eyes that made Marinette’s stomach twist in knots. He had already seen the plushie—had already teased her about it, no less—and yet, there was something comforting about the fact that he hadn’t said more about it. Still, it didn't stop the heat from creeping up her neck every time her hand brushed her bag.

As they entered the classroom, Alya and Nino’s heads turned in unison. The relief in their eyes was clear as they saw Marinette walking in, still a little unsteady on her feet but clearly in one piece. Nino waved, a concerned look still lingering on his face. “Hey, you alright, Marinette?” he asked, his voice light but caring.

Marinette nodded, smiling at them both. “Yeah, I’m fine. Just a little dizzy, but I’m better now.”

Before any further questions could be asked, a slight jingle echoed through the room as Marinette set her bag down on the desk. It was a soft sound, but in the quiet of the classroom, it was enough to catch the attention of both Alya and Nino. They exchanged a quick glance before their eyes landed on Marinette, curiosity bubbling in their gazes.

Alya raised an eyebrow, her usual teasing grin appearing. “What’s that noise?” she asked, pointing to Marinette’s bag.

Adrien, standing just behind Marinette, couldn’t resist. He had already seen it, had already played with it in the limousine, and now he allowed himself a small smirk as he glanced at Marinette. He leaned down, his fingers gently reaching for the bag.

Marinette’s eyes widened as she realized exactly what was about to happen. “Adrien, no—!” she protested, her face turning a deep shade of red. But it was too late.

With the utmost care, Adrien pulled the black cat plushie out of the bag, cradling it delicately as if it were a fragile treasure. He held it up between them, and the soft bell jingled lightly with the motion. Marinette, mortified, almost wanted to crawl under her desk.

Alya’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “Aww, Marinette! Is this supposed to be Chat Noir?” she cooed, her grin widening. “That’s adorable. I didn’t know you were such a fan of his! I always thought you were more team Ladybug, you know?”

Marinette’s face burned with embarrassment. Why was this happening now? She could feel all the blood rushing to her cheeks. “N-no, it’s not—! I mean, it’s just a regular cat!” she stammered, desperately trying to downplay it. “It... it brings me comfort when I sleep, okay? I... I must’ve forgotten I was still carrying it when I got in the limousine...”

Alya’s grin only grew wider. “Uh-huh, sure, sure. A regular cat, huh?” she teased, clearly enjoying the moment. “But, Marinette, you gotta admit, this looks just like Chat Noir! You even got the little bell on there...”

“Yeah, totally,” Nino added, his voice full of playful mockery. “You sure you’re not secretly a huge fan of Chat Noir? Seems like you're kind of... attached to him.”

Marinette could feel the awkwardness pressing in around her, and she was just about to make an excuse to escape the teasing when she felt Adrien’s hand gently move the plushie back to her, his voice surprisingly soft and understanding. “It’s okay, Marinette,” he said, his tone light but warm. “No need to get embarrassed. It’s cute. Really.”

Her heart skipped a beat. Adrien was being so kind, he could’ve easily teased her more, or worse, made it even more awkward. But instead, he was treating it like it was no big deal, like he was genuinely interested but not judging her for it.

Alya, clearly sensing the shift, decided to let Marinette off the hook—for now. “Alright, alright,” she said, still grinning but with a teasing lilt to her voice. “But you do have to admit, it’s pretty cute.”

Marinette, still red-faced, quickly snatched the plushie from Adrien’s hands, tucking it safely back into her bag. “I just like cats,” she muttered, trying to change the subject. “And... and it’s not Chat Noir, okay?”

Nino raised an eyebrow. “Sure, sure. Whatever you say.”

But before Marinette could get too tangled in the web of teasing, Alya’s eyes shifted to Adrien, a mischievous glint appearing in them. “Wait, wait,” she said, leaning in slightly. “Adrien... you gave Marinette a ride to school today?”

Marinette’s heart almost leaped into her throat at Alya’s sudden question. She hadn’t realized how obvious it had been that Adrien had given her a ride. She glanced up at him, hoping he wouldn’t make things even more embarrassing for her.

Adrien, however, was quick to reply, his expression softening just a little, though his playful smirk was still there. “Yeah,” he said casually, though there was a subtle warmth in his tone that made Marinette’s stomach flutter. “She wasn’t feeling great, so I figured I could help out.”

Alya’s eyes gleamed with excitement. “Ooh, so you two spent some time together, huh?” she said, her voice dripping with teasing curiosity. “Anything... happen in the limo?”

Marinette’s eyes widened in panic, and she quickly waved her hands in front of her. “No! Nothing happened! We just... um, talked..” she finished lamely, praying that the conversation would just end there.

Alya, though, was relentless. “Sounds like a romantic enough setting to me,” she teased, her grin now bordering on mischievous.

Adrien chuckled lightly, clearly enjoying the banter. Marinette, on the other hand, felt her face grow hot once again. She tried to distract herself by taking her seat, mentally begging for the school day to start before she completely melted from the heat of embarrassment.

The lunchroom was buzzing with the usual chatter and clatter of trays and cutlery, but to Marinette, everything felt muffled. The teasing from earlier in the day still lingered in the back of her mind, and as she absentmindedly poked at her lunch, her thoughts drifted back to the moment she’d shared with Adrien in the limousine.

Alya, sitting across from her, was watching her closely, a glint of suspicion in her eyes. Marinette tried to ignore the feeling that Alya was about to say something, but of course, her friend was quicker than Marinette anticipated.
"Hey, Marinette," Alya said, suddenly reaching over and grabbing a strand of blonde hair off Marinette's shirt. She held it up, narrowing her eyes at it. "You’ve got some hair on you."

Marinette froze, her entire body going rigid as she realized exactly what Alya had found. Blonde hair? She could feel her heartbeat quicken as she quickly looked down at her shirt, praying it wasn’t what she thought it was. Alya, however, wasn’t letting this go.

With a grin, Alya leaned over to Adrien, holding the hair up to his face with an almost sly look in her eyes. “Hey, Adrien, this hair looks pretty familiar, don’t you think?” she said, clearly baiting him.

Adrien looked at the strand of hair, and then at Alya’s smirk, before he casually glanced at the hair. “Hmm, well,” he began, his tone thoughtful, “it’s definitely not the same color as mine. My hair’s more of a light blonde, and this... well, this looks a bit darker.”

Alya raised an eyebrow, realizing he was right. She hadn’t really thought this through before. “You’re right,” she muttered, looking at the strand more carefully. “But whose hair is it then?” she murmured, almost to herself, her curiosity piqued.

Marinette’s heart skipped a beat as she felt the question hang in the air. She didn’t dare look at either of them, her mind racing with a million thoughts. She knew exactly whose hair it was. Chat Noir’s.

Under her breath, almost too softly to hear, Marinette muttered, “So it wasn’t a dream then... Chat Noir...?” The words slipped out before she could stop them. She froze, wide-eyed, realizing her mistake too late.

Alya’s eyes immediately snapped to her, a mix of surprise and curiosity flashing in her gaze. “Girl?” she asked, leaning forward. There was a hint of jealousy in her voice now, a flicker of something unspoken. “What do you mean, Chat Noir?”

Nino, who had been eating his lunch quietly, turned his head at Alya’s tone and glanced at Marinette. Adrien, who had been lost in thought for a moment, also looked up, sensing the change in the atmosphere. His eyes landed on Marinette, his expression unreadable, though there was a slight furrow in his brow.

Marinette’s breath hitched as Alya’s gaze drilled into her, the weight of the question suddenly feeling like it could crush her. Her stomach twisted, the realization that she had let her secret slip making her feel like she was trapped under a pile of bricks. She couldn’t look at them, couldn’t handle the weight of the curiosity and suspicion in their eyes.

Without thinking, she stood up abruptly, knocking her chair over in the process. “I—I have to go,” she stammered, the words spilling out in a rush. She could already feel the panic rising in her chest as she backed away from the table. Her hands shook, her heart pounding in her ears.

“Marinette—wait!” Alya called after her, but the words didn’t stop her. She was already heading for the exit, her thoughts in chaos, her mind a whirlwind. I can’t let them know... not like this, not now...

Her feet carried her without thinking, out of the lunchroom, down the hallway, and towards the stairs. She had to get away, away from the questioning looks, away from the uncomfortable truth that was beginning to unravel before her.

A few students glanced at her as she passed, but Marinette didn’t care. Her breath came faster, her chest tightening as she ran up the stairs to the rooftop, the one place where she could breathe. She needed space. She needed to think. To calm down.

Marinette burst through the door to the roof, the cool air hitting her face like a splash of water. She leaned against the railing, her hands gripping the cold metal as she fought to steady her breathing. Her mind raced.
How did they find out? she thought, her eyes searching the horizon for some kind of answer. She hadn’t meant to say it out loud. She hadn’t meant for anyone to know about Chat Noir... about her feelings... about everything.
But Alya had noticed. Alya had heard. And now there was no going back.
The thought of how close Adrien had been—how closely he’d been watching her—made her stomach churn. She hadn’t wanted him to know. She hadn’t wanted to risk it all.
But the thing that really hurt was knowing that she’d been the one to let it slip. It was her own fault. Maybe... maybe it was too much to keep it hidden, she thought, feeling a pang of guilt in her chest. Maybe it’s time to face the truth, even if it means everything changes.

Suddenly, she felt a hand on her shoulder, and she tensed, startled.

“Marinette?” Adrien’s voice was soft, concerned. “Are you okay?”

Marinette turned, her heart skipping a beat. Adrien was standing there, his face full of uncertainty, but his eyes were warm. It was as if he had followed her here, sensing that something was wrong. She couldn’t meet his gaze, not yet.

“I... I didn’t mean to—” she began, her voice shaky, but she couldn’t find the words.

Adrien looked at her, his expression still soft. “It’s okay, Marinette,” he said gently, his voice a little hesitant. “I’m not mad. You don’t have to be scared.”

She blinked, surprised by his words. Mad? Why would he be mad?

“Look,” Adrien continued, stepping a little closer, “I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable earlier. I just... I didn’t realize how much this was weighing on you.”

Marinette swallowed, her hands trembling.
So... he doesn’t know... at least, not everything.

“Adrien...” she whispered, her voice barely audible. 'Do you have any idea how much I’m about to lose?'

Marinette's breath hitched, her entire body trembling as she struggled to find the right words. She hadn’t meant to reveal so much, but the weight of the situation had become too much to bear. Adrien was here, standing so close, and his concern for her only made the storm of emotions inside her harder to handle.

“I promised…” she whispered, her voice shaky with fear and guilt. “I—I promised Chat Noir… he’d be safe with me… that no one would know we… we interacted. Heroes and civilians aren’t supposed to interact at all, not unless the hero saves someone from danger, making sure they’re okay... but not privately... but... he’s been a huge support to me and if he hears I slipped up... even if it was just a slight mention that he’s been around me…”

Her voice faltered, and she closed her eyes, squeezing them shut as the anxiety tightened her chest. She tried to steady herself, but her legs suddenly gave out from under her, and she would have collapsed if it weren’t for Adrien catching her.

“Marinette!” Adrien’s voice was filled with immediate concern as he gently but firmly held her up, his arms steady and warm around her. “Hey, hey, you’re okay. You’re okay, just breathe.”

Her breath came in shaky gasps, her pulse racing as she leaned against him, unable to stop the tears that were now threatening to spill. “If he’s unable to continue his job as Chat Noir because of me... I’d never forgive myself. No one is supposed to know I’ve been in contact with him. He... he trusts me, Adrien. Fully. He... he even let me examine his miraculous... the very item that protects his identity and gives him his powers…”

Adrien’s heart clenched at her words, and he had to fight the overwhelming urge to reveal everything. To tell her that he was Chat Noir—that it had been him, all along, the one she had been talking about so openly, the one who had been there for her, the one who had held her in his arms and shared those moments of vulnerability.
But the risk... it was too high. She needed to be protected, and so did he. If she knew... if anyone knew... the consequences could be devastating. So, Adrien swallowed the words that threatened to slip from his lips and instead focused on calming her down.
“It’s okay, Marinette,” he said softly, his voice full of warmth. “I’m sure everything’s going to be okay. You didn’t mean to slip up, and if Chat Noir trusts you, he’ll understand. He knows you didn’t do this on purpose.”

Marinette clung to him for a moment longer, her head spinning from the pressure of everything crashing down on her at once.

Then, slowly, she pulled away, her eyes looking up at him with a vulnerability she had never shown before. She wasn’t sure how much more she could take. The guilt, the fear, the uncertainty—it was all too much.

Finally, Adrien stepped closer, his gaze tender but still full of curiosity. “So... what happened last night?” he asked carefully, a tentative smile playing at the corners of his lips. His question was gentle, but there was a note of playfulness in his voice that made Marinette feel a little lighter. He already knew, of course, but he wanted to see what she'd share about it.

She blinked, her mind momentarily returning to the night before, to the memory of Chat Noir’s warmth, the way he had nuzzled into her lap as if he trusted her completely. The soft purrs, the way he had let her trace his suit, his claws, his miraculous... everything was still so fresh in her memory, and despite the stress of the moment, her lips quirked into a small smile at the thought.

“He...” she began, her voice soft and slightly wistful, “he... took a nap... in my lap.”

Adrien’s smile grew a little wider, his heart swelling at her words, though he kept his expression carefully neutral. “A nap, huh?” he asked, his tone teasing but gentle.

Marinette chuckled softly, the sound almost like a sigh of relief as she spoke again. “Yeah, and... and he purrs...” she added, her cheeks flushing as she remembered the way Chat Noir had relaxed, trusting her enough to fall asleep like that. She shook her head with a fond smile. “It was... nice. I didn’t expect it. But I think he needed it. And... I think I did too.”

Adrien’s heart beat a little faster at her words. There was so much tenderness in them, so much care, and it made him wonder just how much Marinette had come to care for the hero who had been a constant presence in her life, even if she didn’t fully understand it yet.
“You must have made him feel really comfortable,” Adrien said softly, trying to keep his voice steady, even though part of him felt like he was standing on the edge of a cliff. “Not every hero can be so open with someone. He must really trust you.”

Marinette nodded, her eyes distant for a moment, as though recalling the feeling of Chat Noir’s purrs, the sound soothing both of them in that brief moment of peace. “He does,” she murmured. “He really does. And... and I trust him too.”

For a moment, the air between them hung heavy with unspoken words. Adrien wanted to say so much, wanted to tell her everything, but he couldn’t.
Instead, he took a small step back, giving her some space, but his gaze never left her. “Marinette... whatever happens, you’re not alone in this. We’ll figure it out.”

Her eyes met his, and for the briefest moment, it felt like the world stopped spinning. The connection between them was undeniable, and even though she couldn’t bring herself to say everything she felt, the way she looked at him told him more than words ever could.
“Thank you, Adrien,” she whispered, her voice soft and vulnerable. “I’m... I’m really lucky to have you as a friend.”

Adrien smiled, his heart swelling in his chest. “You’re not the only lucky one,” he said, his voice low and sincere. “I’m lucky too.”

For a fleeting moment, Marinette allowed herself to relax, to forget about the pressure and the secrets and just enjoy the comfort of Adrien’s presence. But she knew, deep down, that things were far from simple.

Marinette stood silently for a moment, the words heavy in the air. Her gaze dropped to her shoes, and she hugged her arms around herself, as if trying to hold the pieces of her broken heart together. Her voice was barely a whisper, the vulnerability in it raw and real.
“I... I don’t know why he started visiting me in the first place,” she admitted quietly, her eyes downcast. “One day, he just appeared... and... well... he saw me, and I guess he was just in need of company.”
She let out a soft, exasperated sigh, as if the memories themselves weighed more than she could bear. “He doesn’t visit very often... only once every few weeks, and only late at night, close to midnight. Usually, he’s only there for a few minutes—just a quick checkup to make sure I’m okay... but... those moments, those little visits, they mean everything to me.”
Her chest tightened, the emotion in her voice rising as she continued. “I don’t know anything about him as a person. I don’t need to, and I have no right to... but when I look at him... I don’t see the mask. I don’t see the power. I don’t care about any of that. I just care about him—the person behind the hero. The one who has his own doubts, fears, and struggles.”
Marinette’s voice cracked as the weight of the truth settled over her. Her heart ached for the boy who had been so lonely, so misunderstood. “He seems so lonely...” she whispered, her words trembling.

Adrien’s heart wrenched at her confession. He knew that loneliness all too well, the kind that clung to you in the silence of the night. He could hear the pain in her voice, the way she was trying so hard to keep it together, but the emotions were spilling out despite her best efforts.
Without thinking, he stepped forward, his arms wrapping around her in a comforting embrace. He wasn’t sure if it was for her or for him, but in that moment, he knew he had to hold her. She had to know she wasn’t alone.

As his arms enveloped her, Marinette let out a shuddering breath, the tears she had been holding back finally escaping, though she didn’t make a sound. She leaned into him, finding comfort in the warmth and steadiness of his presence. It was as if she’d been waiting for someone to tell her, even without words, that it would be okay.

Adrien’s chest tightened with every sob that wracked her body, and in a moment of pure instinct, he whispered, “No... not anymore.” The words slipped out before he could stop them, his voice soft but full of meaning. “He’s not lonely anymore, Marinette. Not when he has someone who cares about him like you do.”

Marinette pulled back slightly, her tear-streaked face a mixture of confusion and hope. “What do you mean?” she whispered, looking up at him with wide eyes.

Adrien’s heart was hammering in his chest. He wanted to tell her everything, to just speak the truth, but the weight of the secret was too much to bear. He couldn’t reveal it, not now, not like this.

Instead, he gave her a small, reassuring smile, hoping to convey everything in that one expression. “I just mean... Chat Noir isn’t alone, Marinette. Not anymore. He has you. And that... I think that’s all he really needs.”

Marinette blinked, taken aback by the way his words seemed to resonate within her. She wanted to ask more, to question him about the sincerity of his words, but the way he was looking at her—so kind, so genuine—made her pause. She felt a warmth spread through her chest, as if the world had shifted slightly, and in that moment, she felt less alone, too.
“Thank you, Adrien,” she whispered, her voice quiet but filled with a depth of gratitude that she couldn’t fully put into words. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Adrien’s smile softened as he squeezed her gently, offering her the kind of comfort only a true friend could give. “You’ll never have to find out, Marinette. I’m always here for you. Always.”
His grin suddenly widened mischievously as he leaned in a little closer, his eyes glinting with playful amusement. “So... you must have a pretty comfy lap then,” he said, his voice teasing. “If a superhero chose it as his ultimate napping spot.”

Marinette’s eyes went wide, and before she could stop herself, she let out a squeal of embarrassment, burying her face in his chest in an attempt to hide her flushed cheeks. Her heart was racing, and her hands pressed lightly against his chest as if trying to push away the teasing, but she couldn’t muster the strength to pull herself away.
Adrien, however, was far from done.

“Hm,” he mused dramatically, his voice low and full of playful intrigue. “I might just have to see for myself just how comfy it is... see what all the hype is about.”

He was clearly enjoying the way she squirmed under his teasing, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he watched her struggle to keep her composure.

Marinette’s face felt like it was on fire, and she swatted at him lightly, still trying to hide her face. “Adrien!” she half-whined, half-laughed, as her giggles began to break through despite her embarrassment. “Stop it!”

But Adrien wasn’t backing down. He was having way too much fun. “Come on, Marinette,” he teased further, leaning even closer as if considering the idea seriously. “How do I know if you’re telling the truth about how comfy your lap is unless I test it myself?”

Marinette’s face was nearly buried in his shirt at this point, but through her embarrassment, her giggles couldn’t be stopped. She finally burst into laughter, her breath catching in the most adorable little bursts of giggles, as if her embarrassment had completely overwhelmed her and turned into an uncontrollable laugh.
“You’re impossible!” she managed to say between fits of giggles, her hands still pushing weakly at his chest as though to stop him from teasing further.

Adrien chuckled, his heart warmed by the sound of her laughter, knowing that despite her initial fluster, she was enjoying the playful banter. “I know,” he said, his voice softening as he finally backed off just a little, giving her some space to catch her breath. “But I think you secretly love it.”

Marinette, still giggling, swiped at her face, wiping away a stray tear from the laughter. “I swear, Adrien,” she said, half exasperated and half amused, “You’re going to be the death of me.”

The playfulness in the air lingered as they stood together, the tension between them easing with every moment of laughter. For Adrien, it was just another step in breaking down the walls that had always kept their friendship so carefully guarded. And for Marinette, well... she couldn’t deny how much she enjoyed this light-hearted, teasing version of Adrien—one who made her feel both seen and, in moments like this, completely at ease.

Adrien stood there, feeling quite pleased with himself for making Marinette laugh so freely. His eyes sparkled, and a satisfied grin tugged at his lips, but as he chuckled lightly, something unexpected happened. A soft, low purr slipped from his chest, one of those almost instinctual sounds that usually only happened when he was truly comfortable. A side effect of his Miraculous.

For a second, Adrien froze, his heart skipping a beat. He hadn’t meant for it to happen, he hadn’t meant for Marinette to hear it. His brain went into overdrive as he realized what had just occurred. No, no, no, no...

Marinette, still smiling from the teasing, immediately went still. Her eyes widened slightly as her gaze shifted up to him. There was a pause in the air, the kind that only happens when something unexpected has happened and both people realize it at the same time.

“Did... did you just—” Marinette’s voice was unsure at first. “Was that... a purr?”

Adrien’s eyes widened in alarm, and a nervous chuckle escaped him as he tried to recover. Oh no, she’s going to figure it out. His mind raced as he quickly scrambled for an explanation, his usually calm demeanor betraying him for a moment.

“Ah—uh... no, no! Haha, just a rumble of the chest, you know? Happens sometimes, right?” Adrien stammered, trying to sound casual as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Like, the air in there shifts and stuff... It’s just normal body noise! Happens to everyone!”

He could feel his face heat up, and his attempt at staying cool only made him sound even more nervous. Why did I have to purr? He cursed silently, trying to keep his composure. If she started questioning him too much, she might put two and two together, and then... Chat Noir’s identity might be out.

For a moment, Marinette just stared at him, her eyes searching his face. She looked at him with a strange, almost knowing look in her eyes. He could see her mind working, her curiosity piquing.

Adrien braced himself, but after what felt like an eternity, Marinette simply blinked, then shook her head slowly. She let out a soft laugh, more out of awkwardness than amusement, and gave him a look that was somewhere between confusion and skepticism.
“Huh,” she said, raising an eyebrow but seemingly choosing to let it slide for the moment. “I guess... I guess that’s possible.”

Adrien let out a relieved breath, though it was tinged with a little bit of anxiety. Okay, okay, good... that seemed to work. Phew. He still couldn’t believe he had just purred in front of her. The situation could’ve been way worse, but at least she didn’t press it. Yet.

He shot her a nervous smile, hoping to mask the panic still swirling in his chest. “Yeah, you know, body noises and all that. It’s a thing.”

Marinette gave him a small, skeptical grin, but then, in typical Marinette fashion, she quickly let it go. “I guess we all have our quirks,” she said with a shrug, though her eyes lingered on him for just a moment longer than usual. It was almost as if she wanted to say more, but instead, she changed the subject.
“Anyway,” she began, trying to redirect, her voice light. “We should probably get back before the bell rings.”

Adrien nodded quickly, still feeling the residual panic in his chest. He was thankful she hadn’t pressed any further. That was too close... he thought to himself, rubbing his neck as they both stood up and began walking toward the stairs.
But as they moved, Adrien couldn't shake the feeling that Marinette was still watching him in a way that made his heart skip—like she was trying to figure something out.
For now, he had dodged a bullet, but he knew that sooner or later, the pieces would start falling into place. He just hoped he could keep his secret a little longer.

Chapter Text

Marinette found a secluded bench in the park, the evening air still and calming. She sighed, letting the quiet wash over her as the world seemed to pause for just a moment. Her thoughts once again drifted to the tangled mess of emotions she’d been trying to sort through.

It wasn’t as though she didn’t appreciate the kindness and care both of them showed her, but the weight of it was starting to feel heavier. Adrien’s attention, especially after everything that had happened, had been overwhelming in its own way. He had been there for her, showing up day after day, never letting her feel alone. But there were moments when she questioned if it was just because they were friends or if there was something more.

And then there was Chat Noir. He was mysterious, charming in ways that seemed to put her at ease, but even that connection felt fragile. She remembered how his purrs had soothed her headache, how his trust in her had seemed to run deeper than anyone else’s. There was a tenderness in the way he let her stroke his hair, a bond they had built without words, one that had only strengthened her confusion.

She buried her face in her hands, wishing she could understand it all. Why did everything feel so complicated?

"Mind if I join you?"

Marinette’s head snapped up. Chat Noir stood a few feet away, his usual mischievous grin on his face, though his eyes held something softer, something that made her heart skip a beat. His presence brought a sense of comfort, though the questions swirling in her mind made her hesitate.

"Chat," she murmured, unsure of how to respond.

He took a step closer, his posture relaxed. “I couldn’t help but notice you sitting here alone. Mind some company?”

Marinette felt a flutter of uncertainty but nodded anyway. “It’s peaceful here. I just needed a moment to clear my head.”

“I can relate to that,” he said with a soft chuckle as he perched beside her on the bench. For a few moments, they just sat in silence, the only sound the distant rustling of the trees in the evening breeze.

"How are you feeling?" Chat asked after a while, his voice gentle.

“Better, I think," Marinette replied, trying to push past the heaviness in her chest. "Still... confused.”

“About what?” His tone was light, but there was a glint of curiosity in his eyes.

Marinette hesitated. She wanted to talk to him, to explain the whirlwind of emotions she was feeling, but part of her wasn’t sure where to start.

"About... everything, I guess," she finally said, turning her gaze to the sky, where the first stars were starting to emerge. "Sometimes I wish things could just be simple."

Chat nodded in understanding. "I get that. Life’s not always as easy as it seems. But maybe... maybe the hard parts are what make the good moments more worth it."

Marinette glanced at him, surprised by the sincerity in his voice. "Yeah," she agreed quietly. "Maybe you're right."

He smiled, though it was soft, not his usual teasing grin. "Whenever you need to talk... or just sit in silence, I’ll be here."

Her heart clenched slightly. There was something in his words, in the way he looked at her, that felt different. As though he wasn’t just saying it as Chat Noir... but as someone who truly cared.

“Thanks, Chat,” she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

He gave her one of his signature grins, though it didn’t reach his eyes this time. Instead, it was something more fragile, something full of quiet affection.
"Anytime," he replied, settling in beside her, the space between them filled with an unspoken understanding.

And for a moment, the confusion that had been clouding Marinette’s mind seemed to drift away, leaving only the comfort of his presence. She wasn’t sure what it meant, not yet.

Marinette’s hands fidgeted in her lap, her fingers twisting anxiously. She felt her heart race as she spoke, each word weighing on her more than the last.
“H-hey, Chat?” She stammered, the nerves in her voice clear. "Something h-happened at school a few days ago and..." She hesitated, squeezing her eyes shut, trying to steady her emotions. “I... I slipped up. I let slip that we had a few interactions... I-it was an accident! I... I explained it to Adrien... h-how much you mean to me... but Alya and Nino d-don't know the details... only Adrien does and... I’m so sorry..." Her voice cracked at the end, her heart sinking further. "I never wanted to endanger you! Nobody was supposed to find out you and I are interacting... that you're hanging out with a civilian... and I— I broke my promise to you not to tell anyone..."
She looked up at him, her eyes wide with worry, the words tumbling out in a rush. “I’m so, so sorry...”

For a long moment, Chat Noir didn’t speak. The silence between them was thick with her anxiety. Marinette could feel her chest tightening, and her throat felt dry as she tried to gauge his reaction. Had she done something unforgivable? The guilt gnawed at her, and she almost wished she could rewind time, take back the slip of the tongue.

But then, Chat's voice cut through the silence, surprisingly calm. "Marinette," he said gently, his tone soft but unwavering, "look at me."

She hesitated for a moment, but then she met his gaze, her heart fluttering at the depth she saw in his eyes.

"First of all," he began, "I trust you. I trust you with everything. You didn’t break your promise to me. What you said... about me meaning something to you..." He smiled faintly, but there was no teasing, only sincerity. "That’s exactly how I feel too. And I don’t think you understand how much it means to hear you say that."

Marinette’s breath hitched. His words were like a balm to her worried heart, but there was still a gnawing sense of unease. She opened her mouth to protest, to explain herself again, but he continued before she could.

"Look," Chat said, sitting a little closer, his voice quiet but earnest, "You’re not the one who put me in danger. I made the choice to trust you, to come to you. I’m not afraid of what people know, or what they might guess. It’s not your fault." He reached out, his gloved claw resting gently on hers, grounding her.

She couldn’t help but feel a warmth spread through her at the touch, even if it was a little awkward. It was something she didn’t know she needed, but now that he was offering it, she couldn’t deny how comforting it was.

“You’ve never endangered me, Marinette,” Chat continued. "And you’re not alone in this. I’m not angry with you. I could never be. What matters is that you’ve been there for me, and I’ve been there for you. That’s what matters."

Her heart felt like it was swelling, the tightness loosening as she looked at him. He wasn’t angry. He wasn’t upset with her. He understood.
"But—" Marinette faltered, still uncertain. "But... what if someone else finds out? What if it gets worse? What if they start questioning why we’re talking or—"

"Shh," Chat said, pressing a finger to her lips gently, silencing her fears. His smile was tender now, and he leaned in slightly, his eyes never leaving hers. "We’ll deal with it together, okay? I don’t want you to carry this on your own. No more apologizing. You’ve already done enough."

She felt her shoulders relax as he spoke, the tension finally easing away. He was right. She didn’t have to shoulder everything by herself, and he wasn’t going anywhere. He wasn’t angry.

“Thank you, Chat,” she whispered, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips despite the lingering nervousness.

He grinned playfully now, his usual mischief returning in the glint of his eyes. "I mean, what else could I do? You’re too cute when you get all worried like that."

She rolled her eyes but couldn't help the soft laugh that escaped her. "You're incorrigible."

"Maybe," he said with a wink, "but I’m also right. Don’t worry about anything. We’ve got this."

Marinette felt the last of her fears begin to dissipate, leaving behind only a warm sense of relief. With Chat beside her, with him saying they’d handle it together, maybe everything would be okay.

As the silence stretched between them, Marinette's thoughts began to settle, but something else stirred deep within her, something soft, yet powerful. A sudden, overwhelming urge washed over her. She looked at Chat, his warm gaze still on her, and felt an intense longing to be closer, to feel the comfort of his presence in a way she hadn’t allowed herself to before.

Without fully thinking, she scooted closer, her heart pounding as she nervously placed a hand on his knee. He looked at her in surprise, his eyes widening a fraction. But there was no hesitation in his expression, no uncertainty. Instead, there was an understanding that made her feel safe, like he wouldn’t pull away, no matter what she did next.

Before she could talk herself out of it, the impulse overtook her. She crawled into his lap, her breath catching in her throat as her hands wrapped around his neck, pulling herself closer until she was pressed against him. She could feel his breath on her hair as she buried her face against his shoulder, her heart hammering in her chest.

At first, there was a moment of stillness, as though even Chat Noir was caught off guard by her sudden action. But then, his arms enveloped her, gently pulling her closer as if he’d been waiting for this moment, too. The warmth of his embrace wrapped around her, his body comforting and solid beneath her.

“Marinette...” he whispered, his voice a soft murmur. His hands began to stroke her back gently, the tender motion calming her racing heartbeat.

She clung to him, the tears she hadn’t realized were threatening to spill slowly beginning to blur her vision. "I... I just needed this," she whispered, her voice muffled by his shoulder. "I needed to feel safe... and with you, I do."

Chat’s grip tightened ever so slightly, as though he was grounding her, holding her in the present moment. “You are safe with me, Marinette,” he said softly, his voice full of warmth and reassurance. "Always."

Her breath hitched as she absorbed his words, as his arms cradled her, holding her gently but securely. It felt like she had finally found something she didn’t have to question, something that felt right, something she could rely on.
She felt herself relax into him, feeling her anxiety slowly slip away, replaced by the steady, calming rhythm of his presence.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered again, the guilt creeping back into her voice, but his gentle touch reassured her that there was no need for it.

“No,” he said firmly, his voice gentle but unyielding, “no more apologies. We’re okay. We’re more than okay. You’re not alone in this.”

She took a shaky breath, pulling back just enough to look at him, her forehead resting against his. His eyes were soft, warm, a glimmer of something unspoken passing between them. There was something so peaceful about this moment, about being this close to him, something that made her heart feel lighter than it had in days.

“Thank you,” she whispered, a smile tugging at her lips. “For everything.”

He smiled back, his hands gently brushing her hair out of her face. “Always, Marinette. Always.”

And in that quiet, still moment, with the world around them fading away, Marinette felt something inside her shift. The bond between them felt stronger than ever, like an invisible thread that was slowly weaving them closer together. She didn’t know what the future held or how complicated things might get, but right then, right there, it didn’t matter.
For the first time in a long while, she allowed herself to simply be, her heart at peace in his arms.

“Promise me something?” she whispered, almost as if afraid to ask.

“Anything,” he replied, his voice low and sincere.

“Promise me... that no matter what happens, we’ll always be able to talk like this. To be real with each other.”

Chat nodded, his hand gently cupping her cheek, his thumb brushing across her skin. “I promise, Marinette. No matter what, we’ll always be real with each other. You and me.”

Her heart fluttered at the simple, yet profound promise. It was enough. More than enough.

And as the evening wore on, they stayed like that, wrapped in each other’s arms, the weight of the world outside seeming to disappear. For once, Marinette didn’t feel the need to overthink, to plan or worry.

The world around them felt like it had slowed to a peaceful halt as they sat together, wrapped in each other's warmth. Marinette’s heart fluttered in a way that she hadn’t quite experienced before. Every moment in Chat Noir’s arms felt like a gift, something fragile and beautiful. Her mind was a whirlwind of emotions, but in that quiet space, the world outside seemed so distant, so unimportant. It was just them.

As she rested her cheek against his chest, she could hear the steady beat of his heart, and she felt as if it had become her rhythm too. Her breath slowed in time with his, and everything felt soft, peaceful, and utterly comforting. She closed her eyes, letting herself simply exist in this moment.

Then, as if driven by an impulse she couldn’t quite explain, Marinette shifted slightly, tilting her head up to look at Chat. He was watching her, his eyes so tender that her heart skipped a beat. She felt her cheeks heat up under his gaze, and for a moment, she froze, unsure of what to do.

Chat, sensing her nervousness, gave her a small, reassuring smile, his thumb brushing gently across her cheek. His soft touch sent a shiver down her spine. “What is it, Marinette?”

A quiet sigh escaped her lips, and suddenly, everything in her heart seemed to come together in a single, undeniable thought. Without thinking too much, she leaned forward, closing the small distance between them, and placed a delicate kiss on the tip of his nose.
It was light, just the softest touch of her lips, but it sent a warmth flooding through her, like a secret shared between only them. She pulled back immediately, her cheeks now blazing red with embarrassment as she avoided his gaze, her heart racing in a way she hadn’t expected.

For a heartbeat, everything was still. Then, before she could retreat further into herself, Chat’s eyes sparkled with surprise, followed by the softest chuckle.
"You—" he started, his voice thick with a mixture of amusement and warmth. "You’re full of surprises, Marinette."

Her hands fidgeted in her lap, and she nervously bit her lip, her heart pounding in her chest. But before she could say anything else, she felt a soft laugh bubble up from within her. She couldn’t help it. It was light, a little embarrassed but sweet and full of joy at the same time.
And then, as the sound of her giggle filled the air between them, she shyly glanced up at him with a tender smile. "You're the best... sweet kitty," she whispered softly, the words slipping out before she could stop them.

Chat’s expression softened in an instant. He blinked at her, his lips curling into the sweetest of smiles as he looked at her, eyes twinkling. “Sweet kitty?” he repeated, his tone warm and affectionate, a playful glint returning to his eyes.

Marinette’s cheeks deepened in color, but the warmth in his gaze melted her embarrassment away, leaving only affection. “Y-Yeah,” she stammered. “You’re my sweet kitty. Always looking out for me, always there when I need you. You deserve it.”

Chat leaned in just a little closer, his smile growing even more. "Well, I suppose I am a bit of a charmer." He winked, his teasing tone light, but the fondness behind it was unmistakable.

Marinette’s laughter bubbled up again, this time more freely, as she lightly poked his chest with her finger. “Oh, you are a charmer, alright.”

And for a moment, everything felt effortlessly perfect. Their laughter mingled in the soft evening air, and the space between them was filled not with the weight of unspoken feelings, but with a genuine connection. A bond that, no matter how uncertain their future may be, was firmly rooted in trust, warmth, and mutual understanding.

Marinette’s heart swelled as she gazed up at Chat, and though she still felt a slight nervousness from the tenderness of the moment, it no longer felt overwhelming. There was something so right about it.

"You know," Chat murmured, his voice soft and full of sincerity, "I don’t think I’ve ever been called a ‘sweet kitty’ before, but I think I could get used to it."

Marinette giggled again, her heart lifting as she realized how easily they could fall into moments like this—small, sweet, and precious. "Good. Because you are, Chat. And I’m glad you’re here."

He smiled, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear as he leaned in just slightly, his voice barely above a whisper. "And I’ll always be here, Marinette.."

Her heart melted at his words, and in that moment, everything else faded into the background.

The playful energy between them shifted as Chat Noir’s eyes suddenly gleamed with mischief. He leaned back slightly, the corners of his mouth curving into a teasing grin. “You know,” he began, his voice filled with an impish challenge, “I’ve been meaning to ask you something, Marinette. I’m getting the feeling you might need to work on your self-defense skills a bit. I mean, with the way you’re always getting into trouble, I could teach you a few things, if you’re up for the challenge."

Marinette raised an eyebrow, an innocent little smile tugging at her lips. "Self-defense? Huh. And how would you suggest I train for that?"

Chat Noir's grin widened, clearly enjoying the playful banter. “Well, I could always spar with you. I’m a pretty good teacher, I think.”

She stared at him, a mock serious expression settling on her face as she considered the idea. “Hmm... a sparring match with you? Well, I suppose I could give it a try, but...” Her voice trailed off as she pretended to stumble slightly, her feet slightly tripping over themselves in an exaggerated motion. “I am so clumsy, you know. I’m not sure I’d be able to keep up with you.”

Chat raised an eyebrow, clearly amused but with a hint of challenge in his gaze. “Clumsy, huh? Alright then, I’ll go easy on you. Just don’t cry if you can’t keep up.” He twirled his bo staff a little, making it seem like he was about to perform a grand display of martial skill.

Marinette chuckled softly, her hands resting loosely at her sides as she swayed a bit on her feet, still playing the part of the clumsy girl. “Oh, I wouldn’t want to disappoint you. Lead the way, Chat.”

He swung the bo staff forward in a practiced move, an invitation for Marinette to make the first move. He clearly thought he was in control of the situation, underestimating her entirely.

She took a step back, her movements slow and unsteady, as if she was about to trip over her own feet. Chat watched her, his grin widening, clearly entertained by the act. But just as he raised the bo staff to make a quick swipe toward her, Marinette's eyes narrowed, her playful facade falling away in an instant.

She was done pretending.

With lightning speed, Marinette twisted to the side, narrowly dodging the staff as it swung toward her, her movements smooth and precise. Chat’s eyes widened in shock for the briefest moment, but before he could react, Marinette made her move. In one fluid motion, she stepped forward, grabbed the bo staff from his hands, and spun around, using its length to sweep him off his feet.

Chat Noir let out a surprised yelp as he lost his balance and landed hard on the grass below with a heavy thud. He blinked up at her in confusion, his breath momentarily stolen by the sudden move.

Before he could recover, Marinette was already standing over him, her foot gently pressed against his stomach, keeping him pinned to the ground. She held the bo staff firmly, its length pressed against his chest, just enough to keep him immobilized, but not in any danger.

For a moment, there was nothing but the sound of their breathing, the silence between them thick with disbelief. Chat stared up at her, stunned by the sudden turn of events, his chest rising and falling rapidly.

Marinette looked down at him, a victorious smirk spreading across her face. “Not bad for a baker girl, hm?” Her voice was laced with playful triumph, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction.

Chat’s mouth opened and closed in surprise as he caught his breath. He couldn’t help but let out a breathless “Wow,” his voice filled with awe, disbelief, and a hint of admiration.

Marinette chuckled softly, her gaze never leaving his as she tilted her head, a teasing smile playing on her lips. “I’m full of surprises, Chat,” she purred, her tone low and teasing.

The way she looked down at him—standing above him with such confidence, with her foot gently pressing against his stomach—was enough to send a shiver down Chat's spine. For a moment, all he could do was stare up at her, trying to process what had just happened.

A carefree giggle escaped his lips, the sound sweet and full of a mixture of surprise and nervousness. “You sneaky little—”

Marinette leaned down a bit, raising an eyebrow as she lowered the bo staff slightly but still kept him at bay. “Sneaky? I don’t know what you’re talking about, sweet kitty.”

Her words sent a jolt through him, her playful tone somehow even more dangerous now that he knew just how skilled she was. Chat’s gaze flickered to her mischievous grin, his heart racing as he processed the mix of emotions flooding him. He had underestimated her. He had thought he could teach her a lesson, but instead, she had turned the tables with ease.

“Alright, alright,” he said, his tone a mixture of surrender and respect. “You’ve clearly been holding out on me. I didn’t expect that.”

Marinette’s grin only widened, her eyes sparkling with a mix of confidence and affection. “Maybe next time, you’ll think twice before challenging me,” she teased, her voice light but with a touch of sweetness that made Chat feel both flustered and impressed.

With a soft, adorable laugh, Chat raised his hands in mock surrender, still lying on his back, unable to hide the admiration in his voice. “You really know how to keep a guy on his toes, don’t you?”

Marinette smiled down at him, the victorious edge in her expression slowly melting into something more tender. "I told you, I'm full of surprises."

For a moment, they simply stayed there, the world around them fading into the background. Chat was still sprawled on the grass, gazing up at her, completely caught off guard by her skill, while Marinette stood over him with the bo staff in hand, her gaze softening as she realized how important these moments were and how much she cherished them.

Chapter Text

Alya and Nino had been watching from a distance, hidden by the shadow of a nearby tree. They had been on a date at a cafe near the park, when they had spotted Chat Noir landing nearby. They had always wanted to meet him. They were far enough away to not be noticed, but close enough to see everything that was happening between Marinette and Chat Noir. Both of them were in complete shock, their eyes wide as they took in the unexpected scene.

Not only did Marinette seem to know Chat Noir—the elusive superhero who was always gone before anyone could even get a good look at him—but she was sparring with him. And not just sparring in a friendly way. She was defeating him. Every move they made, every twist and turn, had them on edge. There was no denying it: Marinette was not just some innocent civilian. She was capable. And Chat Noir, who was always so full of confidence, was being outmaneuvered by her at every turn.

Alya’s thoughts were a whirlwind, her mind racing with a million questions. How did Marinette even know Chat Noir? How long had this been going on? Were they secretly friends?

The more Alya thought about it, the more she realized how little she knew about her best friend.

Her fingers itched, the journalist in her desperate to document everything. Ladyblog material—she’d been waiting for the perfect interview with Chat Noir for so long, and now, there he was, so close, and... Marinette knew him! But then Alya glanced over at Nino, and her excitement turned into hesitation.

Nino, sensing her intent, placed a hand on her shoulder, shaking his head.
“You know we can’t approach him,” Nino murmured. “Not without putting her—both of them—at risk. We have to be patient.”

Alya bit her lip, but deep down, she knew he was right. Still, the burning curiosity kept her rooted in place, her eyes never leaving the scene unfolding before her.

And that scene was only getting more intense.

The playful moment between Marinette and Chat Noir shifted in an instant.

Chat, looking increasingly impressed by Marinette’s skills, made a sudden leap forward, pouncing at her with the agility of a cat. Before Marinette could fully react, he pinned her to the ground, their faces close together.

For a brief second, Alya and Nino exchanged startled looks. What was going on? Were they... that close?

But in true Marinette fashion, she didn’t stay on the ground for long. She shifted her feet under Chat Noir’s body and with a powerful kick, sent him rolling off of her, the surprise on his face evident. He landed on all fours like a graceful cat, his tail twitching in sudden surprise. He had not expected her to fight back like that.

"Not bad," he said, his voice low, playful, but his eyes now gleaming with an edge of seriousness. "But I'm not messing around anymore."

The playful game had ended.

Chat Noir, realizing he couldn’t afford to underestimate her, moved in for another attack. But Marinette wasn’t the same girl she’d been at the start of the fight. She was quicker, more focused, and more than capable of holding her own. With fluid precision, she ducked beneath his bo staff and caught his wrist, twisting it in an unexpected direction. Chat's eyes widened in surprise at her strength and quick thinking, but he managed to break free with a smooth spin, clearly using all of his training.

The struggle between them intensified, each trying to get the upper hand, but neither willing to give up. Marinette ducked and weaved, dodging every strike Chat aimed at her, all the while keeping her focus sharp. The ground beneath them became a blur as they continued to move, her footwork precise, her energy focused and controlled.

Then, with a move that was almost too fast to follow, Chat Noir finally managed to knock Marinette off balance, sending her tumbling across the grass. She rolled, barely missing a tree trunk, and when she stopped, she took a moment to breathe, eyes flicking up to find Chat standing tall once more.

For a moment, Chat’s confidence faltered. His eyes widened, his ears flattening against his scalp as worry flickered across his face. He'd gone too far, hadn’t he? Had he hurt her? He'd been caught up in the fight, but that wasn’t supposed to happen. He moved toward her, his body tense with worry.

But then, a sound stopped him in his tracks.

A low, melodic laugh. Marinette’s laugh.

He froze, eyes wide in surprise as her laughter echoed through the night air, light and carefree. She was not hurt.

“Oh, sweet kitty,” she said, her voice teasing but laced with amusement. “You’ve got some moves, I admit. But it’s gonna take a lot more to keep me down.”

With that, she rose to her feet, dusting herself off as though the roll had been nothing more than an afterthought. Her eyes, when they met his, were no longer filled with playful teasing, this time, they were focused, determined, and ready for whatever came next.

Chat Noir crouched defensively, his eyes narrowing with renewed intensity. This was no longer a game. Marinette was no longer holding back, and neither would he.

Alya and Nino exchanged another glance, both of them silently wondering just what they were witnessing. It wasn’t just a friendly sparring match, it was something deeper, something far more complex.

And the way Marinette stood there, poised and ready, the fierceness in her gaze was enough to make Chat think twice before making his next move.

He smirked, his eyes gleaming as he leaped forward again, more focused than ever. But this time, there was no hesitation. No playing around.
“Oh, this is going to be good,” Chat muttered, his voice low and full of anticipation.

Marinette smiled, a fierce, determined grin spreading across her face. "Bring it on, sweet kitty."

The playful exchange between Marinette and Chat Noir had quickly escalated into something far fiercer. What started as a friendly spar had turned into a full-fledged battle of wits and agility. Every move they made seemed to build upon the last, their fight growing more intense with every passing moment. Chat Noir’s strikes became sharper, faster, while Marinette’s dodges were fluid, graceful, almost as though she were dancing with him.

But even with her skill, she couldn't avoid every hit. A quick swipe of Chat’s staff caught her shoulder, sending her stumbling back.

Then another blow landed across her ribs, and she winced, her breath catching for a moment before she regained her stance. Despite the growing bruises and aches, Marinette pressed forward, her determination never wavering. She wasn’t about to let Chat think he had her beat.

Yet, with a final strike, Chat Noir managed to land a particularly hard hit, knocking her off balance completely. She hit the grass with a soft thud, breathless, and for a long moment, she stayed there, her chest rising and falling as she tried to catch her breath. Her body ached, her limbs sore from the fight, but it wasn’t the pain that worried her—it was the silence that lingered in the air after the blow.

She hadn’t gotten back up immediately.

The silence between them stretched on for a heartbeat longer than it should have, and in that moment, Chat Noir’s playful demeanor vanished entirely. His eyes, once glinting with mischief, were now wide with concern. He instantly dropped his staff, rushing to her side with the speed of a cat who sensed something was wrong.

"Marinette..?" he said, his voice softer than it had been all night. His gloved hands hovered above her, unsure whether to touch her or not, afraid that his concern might be overstepping. "Are you okay? You didn’t get hurt, did you?"

Marinette slowly pushed herself up, a small groan escaping her as she did. Her body ached, but her eyes, though tired, still carried that spark of mischief and defiance. She chuckled softly, though the sound was tinged with exhaustion. “Heh... looks like you’ve got me.” She tried to stand on her own, but the effort clearly took a lot out of her. Her limbs felt like jelly, and her body was bruised from the fight, but she was determined not to let it show too much.

Chat Noir steadied her, his arm wrapping around her waist in a gentle, protective gesture. He pulled her close, pressing her lightly against his chest as though offering her the stability she needed to stand again. His heart was pounding in his chest—he could feel the slight tremble in her form—and the proximity felt far more intimate than either of them had intended.

Alya and Nino, still hidden in the distance, exchanged uneasy glances. They were both worried for their friend, unable to shake the feeling that this had gone too far, that Marinette was really hurt. But what worried them even more was the closeness between her and Chat Noir. The way he was holding her, the way she leaned against him, the way they seemed to trust each other...it was almost like they were more than just friends.

Marinette, noticing the concern in Chat Noir’s eyes, gave him a reassuring smile. She tilted her head up slightly, her eyes meeting his with an unspoken promise that she was okay. Then, without thinking, she leaned in and placed another quick, soft kiss on the tip of his nose, just like she had done a moment before—a fleeting gesture that made both of their hearts skip a beat.
“I’m okay, Chat. I promise,” she whispered, her voice steady and genuine, but with a tenderness that only deepened the connection between them.

Alya and Nino were absolutely stunned. From their vantage point, they had witnessed the kiss—an innocent touch, but still, a kiss. On the nose, sure, but the moment felt loaded with something much deeper.

“Did... Did Marinette just kiss Chat Noir?” Alya breathed, her voice barely above a whisper, but full of awe. Her eyes were wide with disbelief as she looked at Nino, whose expression mirrored her shock.

“On the nose...” Nino muttered, unable to wrap his head around it. "Is that... normal?"

Alya didn’t answer immediately, still too stunned to say much. All she could think about was how much she wanted to know—how long had this been going on? And what did it all mean?

Chat Noir, still holding Marinette against his chest, seemed to shake off his worry, though his ears twitched with lingering concern. "Are you sure?" he asked, his voice soft and slightly strained. "You didn’t take that hit too hard, did you?"

Marinette, feeling her energy return just a bit, gave him another tired smile. She stood up straighter, pushing away from his chest gently. "I’m fine, really. Just a little sore." She stretched, grimacing as the muscles in her back and legs ached. "Guess we got a little carried away, huh?"

Chat chuckled, though it was still laced with concern. "Carried away? That’s an understatement. I thought for a second I really hurt you."

“Well, you kind of did,” Marinette teased, her smile returning to her lips. "But that’s just how sparring works, right?"

Chat stared at her in disbelief, still unsure how she could be this nonchalant after everything. "How are you even this good?" His voice was full of awe. "I mean, I know you're strong, but this... you’re amazing." He gestured toward the fight, clearly still processing how effortlessly she had held her own against him.

Marinette chuckled softly, her cheeks warming a bit at the compliment. "Well, one of my uncles in China is a martial arts champion. He has several trophies in different disciplines, and he showed me a few things when I visited." She shrugged sheepishly, as though it were no big deal.

Chat Noir blinked at her, surprised. "That’s... incredible. And here I thought you were just a baker girl with a knack for fashion." His voice was teasing again, though his admiration was obvious.

Marinette gave him a playful, crooked smile. "Well, I do have a knack for a lot of things," she said with a wink, but her exhaustion was starting to catch up to her. She leaned against him for support once again, though this time, it was less about her balance and more about the connection they shared.

Alya and Nino, still in the distance, exchanged a final glance. This was more than they had bargained for. And as the weight of the moment settled on them, they realized something that they hadn't quite understood before: Marinette wasn’t just close to Chat Noir... she was something more. And that something was going to change everything.
For now, though, they stayed hidden, silent, watching the bond between their friend and the elusive hero grow stronger with every passing moment.

As Chat Noir held Marinette close, she could feel the warmth of his body against hers, his steady heartbeat matching the rhythm of her own. The air around them seemed to hum with the unspoken connection they shared.

Then, just as she was beginning to feel at ease, she heard it again—the soft, comforting rumble of his purr.
At first, it was barely audible, a subtle vibration in his chest, but it grew louder as he leaned in a little closer, his body language protective and tender. It was the same purr he’d used during their earlier moments together, the one that had soothed her when she had been in pain. It warmed her heart to know that even now, after their intense sparring session, he still wanted to comfort her in his own unique way.

Marinette closed her eyes for a moment, the purr filling the air around them like a gentle, calming melody. She relaxed against him, letting herself savor the warmth of his embrace. It was a rare moment of peace, one that she wasn’t used to, but that made it all the more special.

Suddenly, she felt his breath near her neck, warm and light, and then...nuzzling. Chat Noir nuzzled her in that unmistakable cat-like way, his cheek brushing against hers with such sweetness that it made her heart flutter. The sensation sent a shiver down her spine, not from discomfort but from the sheer closeness. His actions were so tender, so genuine, and it made her feel warm inside in a way she couldn’t quite explain.

The tickle of his breath against her skin made her giggle, her face flushing slightly as she pulled back just enough to look up at him. Her cheeks were pink, and she couldn’t help but smile at the endearing display.

He grinned, his eyes soft but playful. “I can’t help it, Princess,” he purred, his words carrying that familiar charm, but this time there was an undercurrent of something more—something deeper. “You looked like you could use a little soothing after our intense sparring session.” His tail flicked behind him as he spoke, a clear sign of his own happiness in this moment.

As they stood there, Marinette feeling the soothing effects of his presence, Alya and Nino—still hidden in the distance—watched with a mixture of awe and confusion. Neither of them had expected to see this side of Marinette and Chat Noir. To say they were in shock would have been an understatement. They hadn’t known that Marinette had been in contact with Chat Noir, much less been this close to him. They had seen more than they ever expected to.
Alya could feel the questions bubbling up inside her. How long had this been going on? Had Marinette and Chat Noir been secretly meeting like this? The pieces didn’t add up, and her curiosity was off the charts, but she knew it was time to step back. They had already seen far more than they should have. It was clear that Marinette and Chat Noir shared a bond, a closeness that no one else knew about. And that bond wasn’t something they should be intruding on.

Nino placed a hand on Alya’s shoulder, his voice low. “We’ve seen enough. We can’t keep spying on them like this. Let’s go.”

Alya hesitated for a moment, her gaze still fixed on the two of them, but Nino’s gentle tug on her arm pulled her from her thoughts. “You’re right,” she muttered reluctantly. There were too many questions, too many things she didn’t understand about what she had just witnessed. And there was no way she was going to get answers by hiding in the bushes, eavesdropping.
With a final, lingering glance at the scene, Alya nodded, and the two of them quietly backed away from their hiding spot, slipping into the shadows of the park and leaving Marinette and Chat Noir behind.

Meanwhile, Marinette, still standing in Chat Noir’s arms, tilted her head to look up at him, her heart lighter than it had been in a while. The warmth of the moment, combined with his gentle purring and the nuzzling that still made her smile, made everything feel like it was exactly where it was meant to be. For once, all the chaos and danger seemed so far away.
“You know,” Marinette said softly, her voice barely above a whisper, “I think I could get used to this.”

Chat Noir gave her a playful grin, though there was an undeniable softness in his eyes as he looked down at her. “Getting used to my charm, huh? I’ll take that as a compliment, purrrincess.”

Marinette giggled, her blush deepening slightly as she pushed herself back from him, her hand brushing against his. "Maybe it's not your charm, but your... cat-like instincts." She winked at him, her smile mischievous.

“Ah, you wound me,” he said with mock indignation, though his grin never wavered. “I thought you were starting to appreciate my feline qualities. I’m hurt, truly.”

Marinette laughed, her energy beginning to return now that the fight was over and her muscles were no longer screaming in pain. “Don’t worry, Chat,” she teased, “I’m still fond of you. Just… don’t get too used to me getting this close.”

Chat Noir chuckled, clearly enjoying every moment of their banter.

Marinette’s laughter died down when she heard the sound of her phone buzzing in her pocket. She gasped, her heart racing as she fumbled to pull it out. The screen lit up, displaying a string of missed calls from her mom.
No... no, no, no, she thought, panic rising in her chest. She quickly checked the time and realized in horror that she had been out much longer than she had planned. The sun had already dipped below the horizon, and she was almost two hours late.

What am I going to do? she thought, her mind spiraling. She hadn’t even told her parents she was going to be late. If she showed up now, bruised and exhausted, they’d be asking questions she wasn’t sure how to answer.
Her thoughts raced as she checked the voicemail her mom had left. "Marinette, where are you? Your father and I are getting worried. Call us as soon as you get this, please." Her mother’s voice was laced with concern, and Marinette’s stomach dropped.

She glanced up at Chat Noir, who had been silently watching her, sensing her distress. “I— I have to go home. My parents are probably freaking out right now, and I…” Her voice trailed off as the weight of the situation hit her all at once.

Chat Noir tilted his head, a reassuring smile tugging at his lips, though his cat-like eyes were filled with understanding. “Don’t worry, Marinette. I’ll take you home.”

Her heart skipped a beat at his words, and for a brief moment, she hesitated. How could I explain this? She had never told her parents about her connection to Chat Noir, let alone about the fact that they’d just fought each other—friendly or not. What would they think if she showed up with bruises, having been sparring with one of the superheroes of Paris?

“Chat, I—” she began, her voice faltering, but he reached out, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. His expression softened, and there was an underlying warmth in his gaze.

“I’ll explain everything to them,” he said, his tone sincere, almost playful, as if trying to ease her anxiety. “I’ll make sure they know you’re safe and that nothing happened. Trust me.”

Marinette’s eyes widened slightly, the idea of her parents knowing about her connection to Chat Noir still feeling completely unreal. She didn’t want them to think she was in danger, nor did she want them to realize just how close she was to the masked hero. It was a lot to process.
But in that moment, all she could do was nod, her nerves still buzzing with uncertainty. "You’ll really tell them everything?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Chat Noir grinned, his signature playful attitude returning. “Of course! I’m sure they’ll be just as thrilled to meet their daughter’s favorite superhero.”

Marinette rolled her eyes, though her smile couldn’t quite hide her nervousness. Favorite superhero... The words felt bittersweet, knowing how much deeper her connection to him really went. But for now, there wasn’t much else she could do.

With one final glance around the quiet park, Chat Noir bent down slightly, offering her his hand with a dramatic flourish. "Shall we?"

Marinette took his hand, and before she could say another word, he swept her up effortlessly into his arms, his strong arms cradling her gently as if she were nothing more than a feather. She let out a small, startled gasp, but Chat simply grinned, his eyes sparkling.
"Hold on tight," he said, his voice light and teasing. Without waiting for a reply, he pushed off the ground with a fluid motion, launching them both into the air. The cool night air rushed past them as they soared over the rooftops, the twinkling city lights below creating a surreal glow.

Marinette clung to him instinctively, her heart racing—not just from the thrill of the heights but from the thoughts swirling in her mind. How am I going to explain the bruises? How am I going to explain why I’m late? Her mind kept cycling through a hundred different ways the conversation could go, each one more terrifying than the last.

Chat Noir, sensing her unease, leaned closer to her, his purring gentle but steady. "Hey," he said softly, his voice steady despite their rapid flight. "You don’t have to worry about your parents. I’ve got this. I’ll make sure they know that you’re safe, and that’s all that matters. Okay?"

Marinette felt the tension in her shoulders ease ever so slightly at his words. She didn’t know how he would explain it all to her parents, but the sincerity in his voice gave her a small sense of relief. She nodded against his chest, letting out a quiet sigh. "Okay, Chat... I trust you."

As they jumped higher, the wind whipping around them, Marinette couldn’t help but notice how perfectly natural it felt to be in his arms, how comfortable she was with him. The way his presence was always soothing, even in the midst of her nerves. She glanced up at him, her heart doing a little flip as she realized how much this bond between them had already grown.

They arrived at the bakery just a few minutes later. Chat Noir landed silently and as soon as his feet touched the ground, he gently set Marinette down, his hands lingering for a moment before letting go.
"Ready?" he asked, his usual grin in place.

Marinette took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. "I... I guess so."

"Don’t worry," he reassured her, his voice low and warm. "I’ll be right there with you. No matter what, you’re not alone in this."

Marinette smiled softly, her heart swelling at the support in his words. She wasn’t sure what her parents would say when they saw her bruises, or when they found out that she had been spending time with Chat Noir. But she knew one thing for sure: Chat would be by her side, no matter what.
And in that moment, that was all she really needed.

Chapter Text

The familiar warmth of the bakery greeted Marinette as she stepped inside, her nerves once again kicking into high gear. The scent of freshly baked pastries filled the air, and she could see her parents working in the back, the soft sound of them chatting and preparing their evening orders.

When they heard the door open, both of them turned in surprise. Their eyes widened in shock as they saw not only their daughter, but Chat Noir standing right beside her.

“Marinette, you're home!” her mother, Sabine, exclaimed, her expression shifting from concern to relief. “We were so worried! And-” Her gaze landed on Chat Noir, and her voice trailed off as she blinked, her eyes searching for an explanation.

Marinette smiled sheepishly, trying to make herself small as her mother’s attention focused on Chat Noir. “Sorry I’m late, Mom, Dad. I didn’t mean to worry you.”

Tom, her father, looked between her and the superhero with an eyebrow raised. "I can see that. But... is that...?"

Chat Noir, standing confidently beside Marinette, grinned and gave a playful bow, his tail swishing behind him in an exaggerated flourish. “I’m Chat Noir, Monsieur and Madame Dupain-Cheng. It’s an honor to meet you both.” His cocky grin was matched by his usual charm, but there was a hint of sincerity in his eyes as he turned to face them.

Sabine blinked again, her eyes flicking from Chat Noir to Marinette, then back to the hero. “Chat Noir? The Chat Noir? In our bakery?” She couldn’t hide the shock in her voice. Her gaze softened as she turned to Marinette.
"What... exactly happened?"

Marinette’s cheeks flushed, and she quickly glanced at Chat Noir, who seemed to be fully enjoying the attention. She opened her mouth to speak, but Chat Noir was already stepping in with his signature playful attitude.

“Well, it’s like this…” he began, sounding almost too casual for the situation. “We ran into each other at the park, and we just... ended up spending some time together. We started sparring, you know, just for fun, but got a little carried away. Hence,” he gestured vaguely at the bruises on Marinette’s arms, “the bruises.”

Sabine and Tom exchanged glances, still processing the fact that their daughter was not only with Chat Noir, but had been sparring with him—of all people—at a park. Tom’s eyebrows shot up.
“You sparred with him?” he asked, his voice filled with disbelief. “With Chat Noir?”

Marinette bit her lip nervously, avoiding her father’s intense gaze. “Yeah, well… you know, he’s been teaching me some self-defense stuff. And... um, we might've gotten a little competitive.”

Chat Noir flashed another grin, clearly amused by the idea of explaining himself to her parents. “I may have underestimated her, actually. She’s pretty impressive! Caught me off guard a few times. She's got skills. Just... don’t expect her to go easy on you if you ever challenge her.”

Marinette let out a small laugh, relieved that Chat Noir was taking the edge off the situation with his usual charm. But then, he surprised everyone, himself included, with a sudden shift in his demeanor. His teasing grin softened as he turned his gaze toward Marinette, his eyes glowing with warmth.
“But seriously,” he continued, his voice quieter and more sincere now, “Marinette... she’s just incredible. I’ve known her for a while, actually. We’ve been friends for several weeks now, and I’ve gotta say... I’ve never met anyone like her.”

Marinette froze, feeling the warmth of his words in her chest. She hadn’t expected him to open up like that, especially not in front of her parents. The tension in the room seemed to dissipate a little, but then Chat Noir leaned in toward her, nudging her cheek with his, a soft, affectionate gesture. Marinette’s heart skipped a beat, and she froze in surprise.

Her parents, still trying to digest everything they had just heard, exchanged a stunned look. Sabine’s eyes widened, and her hand flew to her mouth. “Did... did he just—”

Marinette’s face turned beet red as Chat Noir nuzzled her cheek again, his playful yet tender gesture clearly catching everyone off guard. He pulled back slightly, his grin still there, but his eyes were soft, filled with something Marinette couldn’t quite place.
“She’s special,” he added, his voice gentle. “But of course you already know that.”

Sabine was the first to recover, but even she looked a bit flustered. "Well," she said, clearing her throat, "we... we appreciate you bringing Marinette home safely, Chat Noir."

Tom, who had been watching the exchange with an unreadable expression, finally gave a small, amused sigh. “You sure know how to make an entrance.” He chuckled, though his eyes lingered on Chat Noir for a moment longer than usual. “But, if you’re going to be hanging around with my daughter... I expect you to treat her with respect.”

Chat Noir immediately raised his hands in mock surrender, but his smile was still playful. “Of course, Monsieur Dupain-Cheng. I’d never do anything to make Marinette feel uncomfortable.” He shot a wink at Marinette, who rolled her eyes but couldn’t help but smile.

Despite the bizarre nature of the situation, her parents seemed to relax a little, though they still looked between her and Chat Noir with varying levels of shock.

“So, you’ve been friends for a few weeks now?” Sabine asked, trying to piece everything together.

“Yeah,” Marinette replied, her voice steadier now that the tension had faded. “He’s... been helping me with self-defense, and we’ve just... spent time together outside of all the craziness. It’s been nice.”

Chat Noir’s eyes flickered back to her with a warm smile, one that spoke volumes without him needing to say anything. He seemed at ease with Marinette’s parents, despite their shock.
"Thank you for understanding," Chat Noir said, his tone sincere once again. "I just want you to know that I’m here to help, whenever she needs it. And... I promise, she’s safe with me."

Sabine gave a soft nod, her hands still wringing together, though she was clearly less tense now. "Well, I’m glad you’re looking out for her, Chat Noir." She gave her daughter a warm smile. “Just... next time, maybe let us know if you’re going to be late, okay?”

Marinette smiled sheepishly. “I will, Mom. I promise.”

As Chat Noir stood there, still giving his usual playful grin, Marinette could feel the weight of the evening’s events settling over her. She had never imagined something like this happening, being caught between her secret life with Chat Noir and her family. But, in a way, it felt right.
She glanced up at him, and their eyes met for just a moment. There was so much unspoken between them, so much more than just this night and this conversation. But for now, everything felt... perfect.

The moment passed, and the tension in the room seemed to ease as Chat Noir’s playful demeanor continued. However, that didn’t last long, as his gaze quickly strayed from Marinette’s parents and locked onto the pastry display on the counter. His eyes widened in delight, and the moment he saw the perfectly golden croissants, his expression transformed into one of barely-contained hunger.
He tried to act casual, but it was clear to everyone in the room just how distracted he was. His tail twitched behind him, swishing in small, eager movements, and his mouth nearly watered at the sight of the pastries.

Marinette, her smirk growing, raised an eyebrow. She had noticed his distraction long before, and it seemed like now was the perfect moment to have a little fun.
"Something catch your eye, Chat?" she teased, her voice light but mischievous.

Chat Noir's ears perked up, and his gaze stayed locked on her as she moved toward the counter. He smacked his lips, trying to play it off with an exaggerated casualness that only made him look more adorable. His eyes didn’t leave hers, but his gaze flicked back to the croissants, and his tail gave a little twitch.
“I—I’m fine,” he said, clearly trying to play it cool, but his voice was tinged with hunger. His gaze followed her every movement as she picked up a perfectly golden croissant and inspected it, giving it a little turn in the air.
His eyes widened even more as she held the croissant in front of her, waving it slightly like a tantalizing prize. Chat’s pupils dilated, and he leaned forward slightly, as if he couldn’t help himself from inching closer to the food he clearly wanted. His ears twitched, and despite his best efforts, he was visibly trying not to drool.

Marinette, fully aware of his unspoken longing, smiled to herself. She couldn’t resist teasing him just a little more. She took a slow bite of the croissant, all while maintaining eye contact with him. The delicate flake of the pastry crumbled in her mouth, but it wasn’t the taste that had her smiling—it was the way Chat Noir’s eyes followed her every move. She could see the conflict in him: trying to stay dignified, but his hunger clearly getting the better of him.
Chat Noir’s ears flattened against his head, a soft whimper escaping him before he caught himself. He cleared his throat and tried to stand taller, but his tail still flicked in agitation, betraying him.

Marinette couldn’t hold back a laugh as she savored the bite of the croissant. “You’re so cute when you’re trying to act all tough,” she said, her voice light with amusement. “Come on, Chat, pick out whatever you like.” She gestured to the display, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

Chat Noir blinked at her, the suggestion sinking in. He hesitated for a moment, then seemed to give in completely. With a glint of excitement in his eyes, he gave a playful bow to Marinette’s parents. “Excuse me, Monsieur and Madame, I’ll just be a moment.” He made his way over to the counter, his tail twitching behind him like it had a mind of its own. He stood in front of the pastry display, eyes scanning the options with a focused intensity that was borderline adorable.
He reached out tentatively, then picked up another croissant—this one larger, with a generous dollop of cream filling peeking out of the side. He looked back at Marinette with a grin that was wide enough to be infectious. “I’ll have this one,” he said, his voice nearly cracking with excitement.

Marinette smirked at him, crossing her arms as she leaned against the counter. “I’m glad to see you’ve got some self-control,” she teased.

Chat Noir took a bite of his pastry, and his eyes fluttered shut in pure bliss, forgetting all pretense of coolness. “This is amazing,” he murmured, a satisfied purr escaping him. He was so caught up in the moment that he didn’t notice the surprised look from Marinette’s parents as they watched the entire exchange.

Tom gave a soft chuckle, raising an eyebrow at Marinette. “Looks like he’s a fan of the bakery too.”

Marinette shrugged, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips. “Yeah, he has great taste.” She didn’t say much more, but the knowing glint in her eyes was enough for her parents to exchange another glance.

Her mom, who had been quietly observing, finally broke the silence. “Well,” she said, a warm smile spreading across her face, “I guess that means you’re welcome here anytime, Chat Noir.”

Chat Noir paused, mid-bite, and grinned. “Thank you, Madame Dupain-Cheng! I’ll be sure to come by more often.” His tail swished behind him, and he gave Marinette a wink. “And I’ll bring my tough self next time,” he added, his voice teasing as he playfully puffed out his chest.

Marinette couldn’t help but laugh at his antics. “I’m sure you will, Chat,” she said with a grin. “Just don’t go breaking anything while you’re here, okay?”

“I make no promises,” he replied with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

As the atmosphere in the bakery settled into a comfortable and light-hearted rhythm, Marinette found herself feeling oddly at ease. Despite the earlier tension about explaining the bruises and her late arrival, it felt nice to just share a simple, happy moment with her parents and Chat Noir. She could sense the bond between them growing stronger with each passing minute, and though she couldn’t predict the future, she knew this was just the beginning of something special.

And as Chat Noir finished his pastry and flashed her another grin, she couldn't help but feel the flutter of excitement in her chest. After all, with Chat Noir by her side, things were never boring.

Marinette's parents had been quietly watching the exchange between their daughter and Chat Noir, their curiosity piqued. At first, they had simply been trying to understand the situation—why their daughter, a baker's daughter, was spending time with the Chat Noir, of all people. But as the moments passed, and they watched their interactions, it was becoming increasingly clear that what was happening between them wasn’t just that of a superhero and a fan. There was a deeper connection, one that neither of them was willing to fully acknowledge yet, but was undeniable.

The way Chat Noir leaned in when Marinette reached up to ruffle the hair between his cat ears was something beyond casual friendship. There was an intimacy there, a closeness that felt much more like two people who shared something more than just admiration. The way he seemed to almost melt into her touch, eyes fluttering shut in contentment, was not something they had seen him do with anyone else, especially not with the media, who were often lucky to get a few words from him before he was off again.
And then there was the way Chat Noir was completely at ease with her, something that was especially strange given his usual guarded behavior. The famous superhero, known for his quick exits and unpredictable nature, was letting his guard down completely with Marinette. He was calm, trusting, and—dare they say—comfortably in tune with her. Marinette’s presence had his attention in a way they had never seen before, and it made them wonder: Was there something more to their relationship than either of them were letting on?

As the thought lingered in their minds, Chat Noir, who had been listening to Marinette’s teasing words, leaned in slightly and poked at one of her bruises with his claw, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
“Do they still hurt?” he asked, his voice low but playful. The light touch of his claw against her skin made her flinch, and Marinette immediately swatted his hand away.

“Ow, Chat!” she exclaimed, though she was smiling despite the playful jab. “Yes, they still hurt!” Her voice carried a mix of exasperation and fondness, clearly used to his antics by now. But before she could retreat, Chat Noir's tail snaked around her waist, pulling her a little closer to him, his gaze now completely locked onto hers. It was an almost possessive gesture, as if the very movement was a silent statement: I’m here, and I’m paying attention to only you.

Marinette felt the weight of his eyes on her, and for a moment, her breath caught. Her cheeks flushed slightly, but she couldn’t help the smile that tugged at her lips.

“I still can’t believe you took me down like that, Marinette,” Chat Noir continued with a low chuckle. “I mean, I’ve fought countless akuma, but you? I never thought you'd be the one to give me such a challenge.” He grinned, clearly impressed and yet teasing in that familiar way.

Marinette laughed, the sound warm and full of affection. "I'm just glad you didn’t unleash your Cataclysm on me when our match became a little less friendly. That would've been terrifying!"

Her words were lighthearted, but there was truth to them. Chat Noir had a power that could literally destroy anything in its path. The idea of him using it in their playful sparring match had been more than a little intimidating. Still, the memory of it made her smile—because despite the intensity of their match, she hadn’t feared him. She had trusted him.

Tom and Sabine, who had been quiet up until that point, exchanged a glance, both of them processing the new information. They had been told that Marinette and Chat Noir had sparred, but the fact that their daughter had actually taken him down was an entirely new revelation. Their eyes shifted back to the two of them, still holding each other’s gaze with an almost natural ease that only further confirmed their suspicions.

“You… took Chat Noir down?” Sabine asked, her voice incredulous. She had thought the hero had been the one to help Marinette, not the other way around.

Marinette’s face flushed again, and she waved her hands in a slightly embarrassed motion. “Well, it wasn’t really like that. I just—I caught him off guard, that’s all.”

Chat Noir laughed again, looking down at her with admiration in his eyes. “Don’t be modest, Marinette. You’ve got some serious skills. I never saw it coming.” His tone was both teasing and appreciative, his eyes softening as he looked at her.

Sabine blinked in disbelief as she looked at her husband. Tom raised his eyebrows and shook his head, clearly stunned. “Well, I never thought I’d hear about that,” he said with a dry laugh. “Our daughter, the hero slayer…”

Marinette groaned, burying her face in her hands. “It wasn’t like that, Dad!” she protested, though she was clearly flustered by the teasing.

Chat Noir couldn’t help but add fuel to the fire. “You’re a natural, Marinette. Maybe you should consider being a hero too. You’d make a great sidekick.” He gave her a wink, clearly enjoying her embarrassment.

She playfully shoved him in the chest, but it was clear from her smile that she didn’t mind the attention. “I’ll leave the hero work to you, Chat,” she said, her voice softening. “I’ve got enough on my plate already.” She turned to her parents, her face now fully flushed but smiling. “But I promise, I’ll be careful. No more sparring for a while.”

Her parents nodded, still processing the oddity of everything that had just unfolded.

They had a lot to think about, but one thing was clear: Their daughter and Chat Noir shared something deeper than they’d ever imagined. And they could see it now, in the way their eyes met, in the way their interactions seemed to carry a weight of trust and fondness that went beyond mere friendship.

“Well,” Sabine said, breaking the silence with a soft sigh, “I think we’ve all had enough excitement for one evening. But it’s nice to know you’ve made such a good friend, Marinette.”

Tom added, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth, “Just… don’t get too carried away next time, okay?”

Chat Noir’s ears perked up at the playful comment, but he just gave a cheeky grin. “Don’t worry, Monsieur Dupain-Cheng. I’ll make sure she’s safe. I wouldn’t want to mess with a baker’s daughter.”

Marinette rolled her eyes, but the smile on her face told a different story. There was something about this chaotic, unexpected situation that felt right.

As the evening began to wind down, it was clear that the moment they’d all shared in the bakery was slowly coming to an end. Chat Noir gave Marinette’s parents a final wave with a grin. He had finished his pastry and seemed content, though there was a hint of reluctance in his posture as he turned to leave.

“Well,” Chat Noir said, his voice light, “I suppose I should head off before I get too comfortable. The city needs its protector, after all.” He gave Marinette a wink, his usual playful smirk on full display, though there was a softness in his eyes when he looked at her.

Marinette tried to push back the feeling of emptiness that was creeping into her chest. She’d grown so accustomed to having him around, especially after their time together tonight. But she knew he had to leave; it wasn’t like he could stay forever. Still, the thought of him leaving so soon left her with a bittersweet feeling.

“You’re right,” she said, trying to keep her voice light. “You’ve got your duties. Go save Paris, Chat.”

He chuckled, the sound rich with affection. “I’ll always come back for you, Marinette.” The words hung in the air for a moment, heavier than usual, and the way he said them felt personal—like a promise.

Marinette’s heart fluttered slightly, but she forced herself to smile, nodding. “Thanks for everything tonight, Chat. I really had fun. But next time, maybe a little less rough?” She teased, her tone playful but sincere.

He tilted his head, his cat-like grin never faltering. “I’ll try my best, but no promises,” he teased back. “You’re tougher than you look, you know.”

And with that, Chat Noir turned toward the door, his body poised to leap back into the night. But just before he did, he glanced back at Marinette. His eyes softened, and for a brief moment, the city noise seemed to fade as they shared an unspoken understanding between them.
“Take care, Marinette,” he said, his voice quieter now, almost tender.

She nodded, her chest tightening. “You too, Chat.”

With that, Chat Noir disappeared out the door, his graceful leap taking him into the night, leaving the faintest whisper of his presence behind. The faint sound of his paws against the rooftops was all that remained, and Marinette couldn’t help but feel the weight of the silence that followed.

As the door clicked shut and the sounds of the bakery returned to normal, Marinette was left standing there, feeling the absence of Chat Noir more than she cared to admit. It had only been a few moments since he left, but already, she missed him.

She leaned against the counter, staring at the now-empty space where he had just stood. A small sigh escaped her lips, her hand reaching up to absentmindedly trace the spot on her cheek where he had nuzzled her earlier. The warmth of his touch still lingered in her memory, a comforting, yet aching reminder of how close they had become.

Her parents, who had been quietly observing the exchange, exchanged a glance but didn’t say anything. They knew Marinette well enough to understand that this was more than just a fleeting admiration for a superhero. There was something deeper there, something Marinette had yet to fully grasp herself.

“I’m gonna go upstairs,” Marinette muttered, trying to shake off the feelings of longing she could no longer hide. She forced a smile at her parents, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Thanks for everything tonight, but I think I need some time to… think.”

Her mother gave her a soft smile, understanding in her eyes. “Of course, sweetheart. We’ll talk more tomorrow. Get some rest.”

Marinette nodded, then made her way upstairs to her room. As she sat down on her bed, she pulled her knees up to her chest, burying her face in her arms. It wasn’t that she didn’t enjoy having time with her parents, but her mind kept wandering back to the moments she had spent with Chat Noir. His warmth, his laughter, the way he always made her feel special—even when things got a little chaotic. She couldn’t deny it anymore: she cared for him more than she had ever realized.
The night had been a whirlwind, but as the silence in her room settled around her, Marinette couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. Part of her wanted to call him, hear his voice again, just to remind herself that he was out there, somewhere, watching over Paris. But another part of her understood that he had to keep moving—he was a hero, after all.
But even so, the emptiness that lingered in his absence wasn’t something she could ignore.
She rolled over, resting her head against her pillow. A small, wistful smile tugged at her lips. “I miss you already, Chat,” she whispered into the quiet room, her eyes closing as she imagined him out there, leaping across the rooftops, watching over the city.

Somehow, she knew this wasn’t the last time their paths would cross. But for now, she would wait, even if that wait felt longer than she cared to admit.
And as she drifted off to sleep, a soft purr seemed to echo in her mind—a reminder that, no matter the distance between them, Chat Noir would always be there.

She woke up at the sound of her phone buzzing. Marinette’s heart raced as she stared at the text from Alya.
"Girl. EXPLAIN."

She had no idea how to respond to this. The picture attached showed her and Chat Noir in the park. The image was striking. There was no denying it, and she realized just how much trouble she could be in if anyone else saw this. Alya had seen everything.

Her fingers trembled as she quickly typed out a response, her mind spinning with thoughts on how to keep everything a secret. Her first instinct was panic, but then she remembered that Alya was her best friend and if anyone could understand, it would be her. Still, this was bigger than anything she’d ever had to explain.

Her phone buzzed again before she could finish her message, and a new notification popped up.
"Girl. What is going on?" Alya’s text was followed by a long string of question marks. "I need to know how you’re connected to Chat Noir. Was that really him?? I can't even—I can't believe this!!"

Marinette quickly typed back:
“It’s... It’s complicated. I promise I’ll explain everything, but please, please don’t tell anyone. No one is supposed to know. I don’t want to endanger him, or anyone else. I promise I’ll make it up to you. How about an exclusive interview for your blog? Just please, keep this between us. I trust you, Alya. Please.”

Her heart raced as her thumb hovered over the "send" button, and the silence in her room felt deafening as she waited for Alya’s reply. She didn’t want to lie to her best friend, but there was so much more at stake. She couldn’t take that chance.

Alya’s response came in seconds.
“Exclusive interview?! Girl, you know I’m all about that! But I swear, you’re hiding something big from me! I’m gonna need to know the full scoop. But for now, promise me you’ll tell me everything tomorrow after school. I can keep a secret. Just… wow. I need to process this.”

Marinette sighed in relief, her shoulders relaxing slightly. Alya wasn’t angry, at least, but it was clear that her curiosity was piqued. She understood why, though. Chat Noir wasn’t someone she could casually mention in a conversation. He was a legend in Paris, and now Marinette was not only interacting with him—she had sparred with him. Her heart was still racing as she typed back.
“Thank you, Alya. I promise I’ll explain everything tomorrow. Just please, let’s keep this between us for now. I don’t want to put anyone in danger. I trust you, and I’ll make it up to you.”
She hit send and leaned back against her pillow, her breath shaky. Alya had agreed, but there was still a huge weight on her chest.
But for now, there was nothing she could do except wait. Tomorrow, she would tell Alya everything. She just hoped that in doing so, she wouldn’t risk everything she had with Chat Noir—or worse, put him in danger.

As the night dragged on, her mind wandered back to their time together, to his presence in her life. She didn’t know where things were headed with Chat Noir, but she knew one thing for sure: she was in deeper than she had ever imagined. And the secret they shared was something she couldn’t take lightly.
She glanced at the clock on her nightstand, realizing it was nearly midnight. With a deep sigh, she pulled the covers over herself and closed her eyes, trying to quiet the whirl of thoughts in her mind.
But even as sleep began to take her, a part of her couldn’t shake the feeling of longing for Chat Noir. Even though they’d just parted ways hours ago, she already missed him more than she expected.

But even in her dreams, she couldn't shake the image of Chat Noir's mischievous grin and the pull of something deep inside her heart that she was only just beginning to understand.

Chapter Text

The day dragged on for Marinette, each minute feeling like an eternity. She could feel Alya’s eyes on her constantly, glances that seemed to pierce right through her, no doubt filled with anticipation and curiosity. Marinette was used to Alya’s intense focus, but today, it was different. Every time she caught Alya’s gaze, she could see the spark of questions behind her best friend’s eyes. Alya had so many questions, and Marinette couldn’t help but feel the pressure building inside her.

At lunch, Marinette picked at her food, barely able to concentrate. Alya, on the other hand, was full of energy, leaning in across the table to stare at Marinette with a wide grin. "Come on, girl. You can’t keep me in suspense like this!" she said, practically vibrating with curiosity.

Marinette forced a nervous laugh, her stomach churning with nerves. “I promise, I’ll tell you everything after school, Alya. It’s just... complicated.”

Alya raised an eyebrow, her tone teasing yet serious. “You’ve been saying that all day! I don’t know how much longer I can wait. You... and Chat Noir? Sparring? Hanging out? That’s huge, Marinette! I have so many questions!” She glanced around the cafeteria, ensuring no one else was listening, then leaned in closer. "When did this all happen? How long have you two been friends? What’s going on with the whole ‘sparring’ thing? You took him down, Marinette! Chat Noir! I... I just—what?!"

Marinette blushed, trying her best to keep calm. “I’ll explain everything, Alya, I promise. You have to trust me, okay? It’s just… I can’t talk about it here.”

Alya’s grin widened. “Okay, okay, but I’m seriously dying to know more. After school, no distractions! You’re telling me everything!”

Marinette nodded, her hands tightening around her lunch tray. She could feel her heartbeat speeding up. The thought of explaining everything to Alya made her stomach twist in knots. How was she supposed to explain that she had been spending time with the very superhero who was supposed to remain a distant, untouchable figure? And now that Alya knew about their interactions, she was bound to have more questions than ever.

Finally, as the bell rang for their last class of the day, Marinette thought she could breathe a little easier. But of course, just as luck would have it, the announcement came that their final class had been canceled due to a surprise faculty meeting.

Alya’s eyes instantly lit up, and before Marinette could even process what was happening, Alya had already grabbed her by the arm and was pulling her toward the door.
“Alright, this is it! No more waiting! We’re going straight to your place, and you’re telling me everything!”

Marinette’s heart sank a little. She wasn’t ready for this. She hadn’t even had time to fully prepare herself for how to explain everything to Alya. But there was no turning back now. Alya’s excitement was contagious, and despite her nerves, Marinette couldn’t help but smile slightly at her best friend’s enthusiasm.

As they walked through the hallways, Alya’s questions kept coming, rapid-fire. “When did you two first meet? You never mentioned anything about him! How long has this been going on? Are you guys... you know... more than friends?”

Marinette had to bite her lip to keep herself from blushing furiously. She could tell that Alya was already imagining all sorts of possibilities, and that only made her nerves worse. "Alya, calm down! I’ll explain everything, but we need to get somewhere quieter. I’m not ready to tell the whole world yet, okay?" she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

Alya’s grin widened, but she gave a mock-serious nod. "Fine, fine! I’ll let you get to it in your own time. But I swear, I’m so ready for this story."

When they finally reached Marinette’s house, Alya wasted no time getting comfortable, dropping her bag by the door and plopping down on the couch in the living room. Marinette’s parents weren’t home, so she had a moment of peace before diving into the conversation she knew would change everything.

She sat down across from Alya, taking a deep breath. Alya was watching her, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Marinette realized there was no point in stalling any longer.
“Alright, Alya,” Marinette began, her voice steady despite the butterflies in her stomach. “I think it’s time I told you everything.”

Alya sat forward, her eyes focused and expectant. “I’m all ears, girl. No holding back.”

Marinette let out a long breath, glancing at the ceiling as she gathered her thoughts. Then, she began to speak. Slowly at first, but soon the words came pouring out. She told Alya everything—about Chat Noir’s unexpected visits, how they’d spent time together, the moments they shared, and the way their bond had grown. She even admitted how she had been nervous about the bruises she’d gotten from their sparring, and how she was still unsure of what to do with these growing feelings she had for him.

Alya listened intently, not interrupting once. When Marinette finally finished, there was a long moment of silence. Alya’s eyes were wide, and she was blinking rapidly as if trying to process everything.
“You—you and Chat Noir—have been spending time together? You’re friends?!” Alya asked, her voice filled with disbelief and awe.

Marinette nodded. “I know it sounds crazy. But he’s... different when he’s around me. He trusts me, Alya. I’ve never felt like this before. It’s like... we understand each other in a way I didn’t expect.”

Alya let out a slow breath, her expression softening. “Okay, wow. I had no idea... I mean, no idea you two were this close. But... I get it. You trust him, and he trusts you. That’s pretty incredible.”

Marinette smiled, feeling a weight lift off her chest. It was such a relief to finally explain everything to Alya. The worst part was over.

Alya’s eyes then gleamed mischievously. “But... tell me you’re not developing a crush on him.”

Marinette’s eyes widened in horror. “What? No—Alya, no way!”

Marinette’s face turned a shade of crimson as Alya’s teasing words hit home. She stammered, trying to find something to say, but Alya was relentless.

“M-Mhmm, not a crush, huh? Then why’d you kiss him on the nose?” Alya smirked, raising an eyebrow. “You’re not fooling anyone, girl. You’ve got it bad.”

Marinette’s heart thudded in her chest. She had hoped Alya wouldn’t catch that detail so quickly. Her mind raced, and she finally managed to sputter out, “I—I didn’t mean to kiss him like that! It was just a quick—just a quick thing!”

Her words were almost too flustered to be coherent, but Alya was having none of it.
Alya’s grin only grew wider. “Uh-huh, sure. A quick little kiss on the nose, huh? I can tell that’s more than just ‘friendship,’ Marinette. Come on, you can tell me. I’m your best friend!” She leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a playful whisper. “I mean, if I were you, I’d be pretty into him, too. Chat Noir... who wouldn’t fall for that?”

Marinette buried her face in her hands, wishing she could just melt into the floor. “I’m not giving up on Adrien,” she said, her voice muffled from behind her hands. She felt her heart tighten. The thought of Adrien always brought a sense of confusion. She had always liked him, and even now, she wasn’t sure where things stood. But the more she spent time with Chat Noir, the more complicated her feelings became.

Alya’s smirk softened into something more understanding. “Yeah, but that’s the thing, Marinette. You like Adrien, I know that. But Chat Noir is... Chat Noir. You’ve got a thing for both of them, don’t you?”

Marinette hesitated, unable to deny it. Alya could always read her like an open book. “I don’t know what to do, Alya,” Marinette admitted, her voice quiet, vulnerable. “Chat Noir... he’s so different from Adrien, but I’ve never felt this way before. It’s confusing.”

Alya gave her a thoughtful look, clearly considering the situation with care. “I get it. It’s complicated. But the way you talk about Chat Noir... it sounds like you’re in way deeper than you want to admit.”
Before Marinette could respond, Alya added, “And don’t think I didn’t notice you avoided the ‘Adrien’ question. You are still thinking about him, aren’t you?”

Marinette's face flushed again, and she looked away. “It’s just... I don’t want to hurt anyone,” she mumbled. “I like Adrien so much, but now there’s... Chat Noir. And it feels so different when I’m with him. I never expected this.”

Alya nodded in understanding. “I can tell. It’s not easy, I get that. But whatever happens, I’m here for you. Just don’t let this mess with your head too much. You deserve happiness, and if that means sorting out these feelings, then you should do it for you. Not for anyone else.”

Marinette sighed, feeling the weight of her best friend's words. Alya always knew exactly how to comfort her, even when things were complicated.

But then Alya's expression shifted, and she leaned forward with a sly grin. “But, speaking of ‘things you didn’t expect’—there’s one more thing I have to tell you.”

Marinette blinked, confused. “What do you mean?”

Alya’s grin widened, her eyes gleaming with mischief. “Nino already knows, Marinette. He was with me when we saw the whole sparring match yesterday. He saw everything. And, spoiler alert, he’s not mad or anything. He’s... actually kind of impressed.”

Marinette’s jaw dropped. “Wait, what?! Nino knows?!”

Alya leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms. “Yep, Nino was there. He saw you two fighting, and he was there when you took down Chat Noir. He was just as shocked as I was. But don’t worry, I made him promise not to tell anyone else. So, the secret’s safe with us.”

Marinette’s head spun. Nino knew too? She hadn’t even considered the possibility that they’d been seen by anyone other than Alya. The thought of Nino knowing... it made everything feel even more real. She had never expected this kind of secrecy to become so difficult to manage.
“I can’t believe you didn’t tell me sooner!” Marinette exclaimed, laughing nervously. “Now I have to worry about Nino knowing too? This is getting out of hand, Alya!”

Alya chuckled, clearly enjoying her friend’s panic. “Relax, Marinette. Nino’s chill about it. He’s more surprised than anything. But, uh... don’t be surprised if he’s got a ton of questions for you when you see him next. And I’m sure he’s dying to know more about the whole Chat Noir thing.” She winked. “And don’t forget, I still need that exclusive interview, you promised me!”

Marinette groaned and rubbed her temples. “This is... way more than I ever expected.”

Alya laughed, nudging her playfully. “You did get yourself into this, remember? But hey, at least now I know the truth. And trust me, Marinette, I’m not going to tell anyone else about Chat Noir. I’m a very trustworthy friend.”

Marinette gave Alya a half-hearted glare but couldn’t help but smile. “I know. Thanks for not making this worse.”

Alya gave her a wink. “Anytime, girl. Now, what’s the deal with Adrien? Are you still planning on keeping that crush of yours a secret?”

Marinette felt her face flush again, and she groaned, collapsing back onto the couch. “You’re impossible, Alya.”

Alya just grinned, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “I know. But hey, I’m only looking out for you! And I can’t wait to see where this whole Chat Noir thing goes.”

Marinette let out a breath, leaning back with her hands over her eyes. She didn’t know how things would play out with Chat Noir or Adrien, but at least for now, she had her best friend by her side. And that gave her the strength to face whatever came next.

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

A few days later, Marinette found herself walking down the familiar path through the city, her eyes scanning the rooftops until they landed on Chat Noir. He was perched high above, scanning the streets below, his usual carefree demeanor shining through as he twirled his bo staff idly.
Her heart fluttered nervously, but she forced herself to walk toward him, hoping this conversation would go smoothly. When he spotted her, his eyes lit up, and a playful grin spread across his face.

“Well, if it isn’t the lovely Marinette,” he teased, his voice full of that familiar warmth that always made her smile despite her nerves. “I was wondering when I’d get to see you again.”

Marinette swallowed the lump in her throat and stepped closer, standing just beneath where he crouched. She hesitated for a moment, then decided it was best to just get it over with.
“Uh, hey, Chat,” she began, her voice a little shaky. “I wanted to talk to you about something… It's about Alya and Nino."

Chat’s playful grin faded slightly as he cocked his head. "What about them? Are they giving you trouble again?" His ears flicked back slightly, a sign of his concern.

“No, no, not trouble,” Marinette quickly assured him. “It’s just that… well, they saw us sparring a few days ago. I didn’t realize they were there, and now Alya’s been pestering me about it, asking me all sorts of questions.”

Chat Noir raised an eyebrow, his gaze intense but amused. “I see…” He paused, tapping his finger against his chin thoughtfully. “And let me guess—she wants an exclusive on me, huh?”

Marinette nodded sheepishly, her cheeks pink with embarrassment. “Kind of… I told her that she could have an interview for her Ladyblog, but nothing personal, and definitely not anything about our friendship or the sparring. Just… some surface-level stuff.”

Chat’s ears perked up, and he gave her a knowing smile. “A Ladyblog exclusive? Now that’s an interesting proposition. So, when does this interview take place, huh?”

“Tomorrow evening, if that works for you,” Marinette replied quickly, glancing up at him. “I wasn’t sure if you’d be okay with it, but I figured I should at least ask first.” She fidgeted with the strap of her bag, suddenly feeling awkward. “I promise, nothing too personal. She’s just really excited to meet you.”

Chat Noir looked down at her, his eyes sparkling with a mixture of amusement and affection. “Marinette,” he said softly, “I trust you. If you think it’s a good idea, then I’m game. I just don’t want to end up on some ridiculous cat meme or something.” He chuckled at his own joke, but then his gaze softened, growing serious for a moment. “But only if you’re okay with it too. I wouldn’t want to do anything that makes you uncomfortable.”

Marinette’s heart skipped a beat at his words, touched by how considerate he was. She smiled at him, her nervousness melting away a little. “I’m okay with it,” she reassured him. “Thank you, Chat. I promise, Alya will keep it professional. And you’ll be able to trust her, I know it.”

Chat gave her a mock salute, his playful attitude returning. “Alright, then! A Ladyblog interview it is. I suppose I’ll just have to make sure I look extra fabulous for the occasion, huh?” He gave a dramatic spin.

Marinette laughed, feeling some of the tension leave her body. “Of course, Chat. You’ve got to keep up the superhero charm.”

He winked at her. “Oh, I was born with it.”

“Yeah, I can tell,” she teased, rolling her eyes with a smile.

Chat’s tail swayed behind him, a sign of his contentment. “So, tomorrow evening, huh? I’ll be there. I’ll make sure to show up on time. We can make it a purrfect interview.”

Marinette laughed, her heart light. “Thanks, Chat. Really. You’re the best.”

He grinned, his eyes glimmering. “Anytime, Marinette. And hey, don’t worry about what’s been happening lately. I’ve got your back, always.”

With that, he gave her one last cheeky smile and leapt away, disappearing into the Paris skyline, leaving Marinette standing there with a smile on her face.

As she walked home, her thoughts raced.
This interview, while a little nerve-wracking, could be a good thing. Maybe it would give her a little more clarity on her feelings for both Chat Noir and Adrien.

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

Alya sat on the couch in her living room, her phone clutched tightly in her hands as she scrolled through her messages. When she saw Marinette’s text pop up, she practically jumped out of her seat. The message read:
“Chat Noir agreed to the interview! Tomorrow evening. I’ll give you the details later, but he said yes! He trusts you, Alya. You can keep it professional, right? Please make sure it’s not personal, and nothing about our sparring or anything between us.”

Alya’s heart raced. This was it. The opportunity she’d been waiting for. She could hardly contain her excitement as she let out a loud squeal. Her hands shot to her face in disbelief. Chat Noir. She was going to meet him. The real Chat Noir.

Her ecstatic noise startled Nino, who had been lounging beside her, his arms crossed, casually watching a video on his phone. He shot up in surprise.
“Alya! What’s going on? You okay?” he asked, his voice laced with concern, his eyes wide. He looked like he was ready to jump into action, thinking something was wrong.

“I’m fine! Oh my gosh, Nino! You won’t believe this!” Alya waved her phone at him, barely able to contain herself. “Marinette just texted me—Chat Noir agreed to an interview tomorrow night! Like, for real. He’s going to meet with me! Can you believe it?!”

Nino blinked a few times, processing the information, before his eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Wait, Chat Noir? THE Chat Noir?” His voice went from casual to shocked in an instant. “You’re actually going to interview him?”

“Yes! Yes! Finally!” Alya jumped off the couch, pacing around the living room, a big grin on her face. “This is the biggest moment for my Ladyblog! No one has ever been able to get an interview with him, you know? He always disappears before anyone can talk to him. And now I’m going to get the scoop. I’m going to meet Chat Noir in person!”

Nino let out a low whistle, clearly impressed. “This is huge. I mean, you’ve already interviewed Ladybug, but Chat Noir—that’s next level! You’re really going to get the inside scoop. People are going to freak out when they hear about this!”

Alya’s eyes sparkled as she read Marinette’s text again, then quickly typed a response:
“No way! You’re the best, Marinette!! I can’t believe this is happening! I’ll keep it professional, promise! Thank you SO much. I owe you one! Let me know the details later. I can’t wait to meet him!!”
She hit send and then jumped onto the couch again, her excitement palpable. “This is it, Nino. This is my big chance. I’m going to get the exclusive that everyone’s been waiting for.”

Nino smiled at his girlfriend, her excitement infectious, though there was a curious glint in his eyes. “So, what are you going to ask him? Any burning questions?”

Alya paused for a moment, her excitement waning slightly as she thought about it. “I don’t even know. It’s Chat Noir! He’s such a mystery. I’ll have to make sure I don’t ask anything too personal, though. Marinette did say we need to keep it professional, and I’m not about to blow this by asking the wrong thing.”

Nino nodded in agreement. “Definitely. Don’t want to make it awkward for Marinette, right? She’s the one who set this up.”

Alya's grin returned as she tapped her fingers on her phone. “Right. But I am going to get the inside scoop. I need to know what it’s like working with Ladybug. What he thinks about being a superhero, and why he’s never stuck around for interviews before. People will go crazy for this!”

“Yeah, well, just don’t forget about us regular humans while you’re interviewing Paris’s most famous hero,” Nino teased, nudging her playfully.

Alya laughed and tossed a cushion at him. “I’ll make sure to keep my feet on the ground, Nino. But this is big, and I’m not going to waste it.” She paused for a moment, and then her smile softened. “It’s going to be amazing.”

Meanwhile, Nino watched her with a mix of admiration and curiosity. It was clear Alya was totally focused on this big moment, but he couldn’t help but wonder if there was more going on behind the scenes. He knew how much Alya valued her blog, but there was something else in her excitement today, something a little deeper.
As Alya settled down, Nino leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. He’d seen Marinette and Chat Noir spar, and now he knew they were friends. And Alya… she was so excited about the interview, but part of him wondered if there was more to their connection than anyone realized.
But for now, he decided to let it go. Alya was on cloud nine, and he was going to enjoy watching her thrive in this moment. He couldn’t wait to see how this interview would turn out.

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

Alya was practically bouncing with excitement, her heart pounding in anticipation. She had barely slept the night before, constantly thinking about meeting Chat Noir. Her mind was racing, and her thoughts were a blur as she followed Marinette through the quiet streets. She couldn’t stop grinning, her hands twitching with the need to text Nino all about what was about to happen. This was it—the interview that would make her Ladyblog skyrocket into superstardom.

Marinette had led her to a quiet alley, one that was familiar, yet Alya couldn't help but feel her nerves start to rise. What if she messed this up? What if Chat Noir didn’t show up? What if she asked something stupid?

Suddenly, Marinette chuckled, and Alya turned toward her, confusion flickering across her face. "Wait, where is he?" she started to ask, but she was cut off by Marinette’s teasing voice.
"Turn around."

Alya's heart skipped a beat as a gust of wind hit her face, the air shifting ever so slightly. She spun around, and there he was. Chat Noir stood in front of her, leaning casually against a wall, his green eyes gleaming mischievously. His signature cocky smirk was already in place, and Alya’s heart raced as she stared into those familiar, piercing eyes.

"So, you must be Alya Cesaire, the face behind the famous Ladyblog, hm?" he teased, his voice smooth and confident, as if meeting someone like Alya was just another casual affair.

Alya’s jaw literally dropped. She stared at him, her mind struggling to process what was happening. He knows about me? He’s here? She fumbled with her words, unable to stop herself from fangirling. "You... you know about the Ladyblog... you... you've read it?"

Chat Noir chuckled warmly, his tail flicking playfully behind him. "Of course! Gotta make sure nothing bad is written about my Bugaboo," he said with a wink, making Alya’s cheeks flush. She nearly melted on the spot.

Marinette, standing beside her, couldn't help but roll her eyes at the scene. With a sigh, she reached over and gently closed Alya's gaping mouth. "Alya," she said, her voice a mix of amusement and exasperation. "Breathe."

Alya snapped out of her daze, her face flushed with excitement. "Oh my God, I can't believe this is real..." she muttered under her breath.

Chat Noir, noticing her nervousness, softened his stance and took a small step closer to Alya. With a kind smile, he placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, his touch warm and comforting. "Hey, it's okay," he said gently. "You'll do just fine."

Alya's nerves settled slightly at the sound of his voice, and she smiled back, taking a deep breath. She could hardly believe that this was happening, but with Chat Noir’s calming words, she felt her confidence returning. He wasn’t the intimidating, elusive superhero she had read about—he was kind, approachable, and even more charming in person.

"Thanks, Chat Noir.." Alya said, her voice steadier now. "I just... I really want this to go well."

"Don't worry," Chat Noir said, his green eyes twinkling. "Just ask whatever you’re curious about, and I’ll do my best to answer. Let’s have fun with it."

With a final breath to steady herself, Alya set up her camera, positioning it in front of Chat Noir as he stood in his usual, casual pose. Her fingers fumbled a bit as she made sure everything was ready, but soon, everything was set up, and the moment she had been waiting for was finally here.
"Alright," Alya said, her nerves still present but no longer paralyzing. "Let’s do this."

The interview began.
"First of all," Alya started, her voice shaking only slightly, "thank you so much for agreeing to do this, Chat Noir. I can’t tell you how much this means to me and my blog. You're an incredible hero, and I know everyone is dying to hear what you have to say."

Chat Noir nodded, a playful grin still on his face. "The pleasure’s all mine, Alya. It’s not every day I get to speak to someone who’s helped keep Paris so informed and entertained. You’ve done a great job keeping everyone updated, and I admire your passion for the job."

Alya blushed at his praise, but pressed on, her questions coming more naturally now.
"So, let's start with something everyone wants to know," Alya continued. "You’re Ladybug’s partner, but you rarely stick around after the battles. Why is that? You always seem to disappear before anyone can ask you questions or even get a glimpse of you."

Chat Noir’s expression softened, and he leaned back a bit. His eyes flickered to Marinette for a moment before he looked back at Alya.
"Well," he began thoughtfully, "being a superhero means making sacrifices. Sometimes, disappearing is just the safest option, not just for me, but for everyone around me. Plus, the city needs Ladybug to take the spotlight—she's the true hero. I like to stay in the background, make sure she gets the credit she deserves."

Alya nodded, her gaze serious now. "But you still do a lot of the hard work. You’re both a team, after all. You deserve some credit too."

Chat Noir gave a little shrug, his smirk returning. "I’m not in it for the fame or recognition, Alya. I’m just happy I get to fight by Ladybug’s side. As long as I’m helping out, that’s all that matters to me."

Alya couldn’t help but smile at his words. He’s just so humble… she thought.

"Now," Chat Noir continued, "let’s talk about something important. You’ve been writing a lot about me lately, haven’t you?" His tone was playful again, but his eyes were serious.

Alya chuckled nervously. "I guess I have... but hey, you’re a mystery, Chat! People want to know more about you, and I can’t blame them."

"I know," Chat Noir agreed. "It’s why I decided to do this interview in the first place. It’s time people get a peek behind the mask, even if just a little one."

Alya smiled, feeling the tension ease from her shoulders. This was exactly what she had wanted, an interview with the hero she had admired for so long, and more importantly, a chance to show the world that Chat Noir was more than just a mysterious figure. He was human too.

For the next hour, Alya asked him questions ranging from his favorite things to how he manages the responsibility of being a superhero. Chat Noir was charming, thoughtful, and answered everything with a smile. But through it all, Alya could see the way he kept looking over at Marinette, as if seeking her approval, as if their bond ran deeper than anyone could guess.
Finally, after the last question was asked, Alya couldn’t help but grin. She’d done it. She’d gotten the interview of a lifetime.
"Thanks so much, Chat Noir!" Alya said, still in awe. "This was incredible. I can’t wait to post it!"

Chat Noir bowed slightly. "It was my pleasure, Alya. I’m glad I could help."

As they wrapped up, Alya couldn’t help but notice the way Chat Noir lingered for just a moment longer, his eyes soft as he glanced at Marinette. There was something more to their connection, something deeper than anyone could see.

But for now, Alya knew she had just pulled off the biggest scoop of her life. And nothing was going to stop her from sharing it with the world.

Alya, still riding the high of her exclusive interview with Chat Noir, was feeling braver than ever. With a shy smile, she turned to Chat Noir, her hands trembling slightly. "Hey, Chat... do you think... it would be too much to ask for a picture with you?" she asked, her voice soft but filled with excitement.

Chat Noir, never one to shy away from a playful moment, grinned widely, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "A picture, huh? For you, Alya, anything!" His voice was light and teasing, and he even did a little mock bow before stepping toward her.

Before she could even fully process what was happening, Chat Noir placed a strong arm around Alya's shoulder and pulled her gently against his side. She felt her heart race as her breath caught in her throat. Wait, what was happening? He was so close—closer than she ever imagined.

"Alright, since I’m feline so generous today," he said with a playful wink, "let’s make sure we capture this picture purrfectly."

Alya gulped, her nerves hitting a peak. She hadn’t expected him to come so close...she was supposed to be the cool, collected journalist. But this was Chat Noir! And suddenly, all her confidence seemed to melt away in the warmth of his presence. His smile softened, his touch reassuring as he made cat puns, the tone of his voice only making her feel more at ease.

"You got this, Alya," Chat Noir added with a grin. "Don’t let my charm distract you too much. I’m just a guy in a catsuit, after all."

Marinette, standing just a few feet away, laughed quietly as she pulled out her phone. "Alright, alright, I’ll take the picture," she said, grinning as she raised her camera. "Let’s make sure Alya doesn’t melt into a puddle of fangirl while I snap it."

Chat Noir gave her a playful wink. "Oh, don’t worry, Marinette, I’ve got everything under control." He turned his attention back to Alya, his arm still firmly around her shoulder as he flashed a grin. "You’re doing fine, Alya, just smile!"

The first picture was taken, followed by a few more as Chat Noir struck different poses, each one funnier than the last. Alya couldn’t stop herself from giggling as he joked around, letting the camera capture all the playful sides of the elusive hero.

But then Chat Noir’s eyes narrowed in a playful challenge as he turned toward Marinette, a wicked grin on his face. "Come on, Marinette, let’s take one with the three of us."

Marinette’s eyes went wide, and she crossed her arms in mock exasperation. "Really, Chat?" she groaned, her voice full of mock annoyance. "You’re going to drag me into this now?"

Without waiting for her protest, Chat Noir grinned wider and reached out, grabbing her arm with a clawed hand and pulling her closer to him, much to Marinette’s surprise. She stumbled slightly as she was dragged into the group, and before she could fully protest, he was already positioning the three of them for the picture.

"Alright, let’s get in the frame," Chat Noir said, his voice lighter than ever, his playful side showing as he activated the camera on his baton, which was now acting as a selfie stick. He looked at the camera lens through narrowed eyes, and Marinette, still trying to suppress her smile, grumbled under her breath.
"Ugh, I can’t believe you’re making me do this," she muttered, but even she couldn’t deny the warmth in her chest. She couldn’t deny the bond she shared with him, no matter how much he teased her.

As the picture snapped, Chat Noir winked. "And that one’s for me," he said, his voice warm and content as he stood proudly between the two girls.

Marinette crossed her arms again, trying to muster her usual annoyed demeanor. "I despise you," she said with a mock glare, though the words held no real edge. She couldn’t help but feel a soft affection for him, even if his antics were ridiculous at times.

Alya gasped, her eyes wide with shock. "You... you despise him?" she repeated, barely able to keep her voice from going high-pitched with excitement. She could hardly believe the playful interaction between the two, and she could see it too: the chemistry, the trust, and something more in the way they acted around each other.

Marinette shot her a sheepish smile and rolled her eyes. "It’s... it’s complicated, okay?"

Chat Noir laughed, his voice light. "Don’t worry, Marinette. I know you love me. You just have trouble admitting it."

Alya snorted, covering her mouth with her hand to stop herself from bursting into laughter. "Well, the picture definitely shows something more than just friendly rivalry," she teased.

Marinette huffed, though there was a hint of a blush on her cheeks. "You two are impossible," she muttered, but it was clear that she didn’t mind.

Chat Noir flashed another mischievous grin, stepping back and giving Alya a light wave. "It was fun, Alya. You’re a great interviewer. And I’ll always be here for you and your blog," he said, his tone softening just a bit.

Alya beamed, clutching her phone as she nodded enthusiastically. "Thank you! This was amazing, Chat! You’re even better than I imagined."

Chat Noir winked. "I try."

With that, he gave a final salute, his tail swishing playfully behind him as he disappeared into the night, leaving Alya and Marinette alone, their laughter and chatter filling the air as the evening continued.
"Well, that was... definitely something," Alya said, still processing everything. "I can't wait to post this! My blog is going to explode!"

Marinette smiled, feeling the warmth of the moment settle over her. She glanced back at her phone, the picture still in view. It wasn’t just a picture of a superhero and a fangirl—it was a snapshot of something much deeper, something she and Chat Noir shared that even Alya had no idea about.

As they walked through the familiar streets of Paris, Alya was practically bouncing with excitement. She couldn’t stop talking about her experience with Chat Noir, still in disbelief that she had met him and even more so, interviewed him. She practically gushed, her words tumbling out in a fast, joyful stream.
“I can’t believe it! Chat Noir actually read the Ladyblog! He knows about it! He was so cool! Like, I’ve been trying to get an interview with him for months, and boom, he just agrees like it’s no big deal! And he was so relaxed, even though I was practically dying from nerves! I mean, Chat Noir! The actual Chat Noir! And he knew all about me! He was nervous, too, but he still made me feel so comfortable! I can’t even...!”

Marinette chuckled, her own heart light with happiness for Alya, though she couldn’t help but feel the slight sting of her own emotions. It was amazing to see how much joy this experience was giving Alya.
“I think we can all tell you had a blast,” Marinette teased. “But hey, you deserve it. You worked hard for that interview.”

Alya grinned, her eyes practically sparkling with joy. “Hard work is an understatement. I can't believe I got to interview him. I swear, no one else has ever gotten this close! I mean, he always disappears after the akuma battles, never sticking around for interviews! But with me? He was totally down to talk!”
As they approached Alya’s apartment building, her excitement grew even more. “And wait until Nino hears all about this!” Alya added, bouncing on her toes. "He’s gonna freak."

Marinette waved her off with a smile. “Well, you go inside and spill the beans. I’ll be fine here.”

Alya gave her friend a quick hug before rushing inside, her energy practically radiating from her. Marinette watched her go with a soft smile before turning and walking away to her own home, feeling content that she had made Alya’s dream come true, even if it was only for one night.

Inside the apartment, Nino was sitting on the couch, phone in hand, eagerly waiting for Alya. He could barely contain his curiosity about the whole interview with Chat Noir, though Alya had assured him she would tell him everything in person. The moment he heard the door open, he shot up and nearly bumped into the furniture in his haste to greet her.

“Tell me everything!” Nino’s voice was filled with excitement as he leaned in, waiting for the full story.

Alya, practically glowing, bounced over to the couch and flopped down beside him, grabbing his hands in hers. "Nino, you won’t believe what happened. It was incredible! Chat Noir—yes, Chat Noir—actually knew who I was! He read the Ladyblog, Nino! He knew everything about it, and we had the most amazing conversation!"

She couldn’t stop the excitement from spilling out as she recounted everything. "He was so chill, like he wasn’t the ‘mysterious superhero’ at all. He was just... him. And you know what? He calmed me down when I was freaking out about the interview. He was just so... nice. I couldn’t believe it!"

Nino’s eyes widened as Alya continued. “He knew about the blog?” he asked, sounding amazed. “I mean, of course, but to hear it from him... that’s huge!”

“Right?” Alya nodded eagerly, practically bursting with the excitement of the day. “But it didn’t end there! He agreed to take pictures with me! And with Marinette, too! We even took a selfie with the three of us!”

Alya dug into her bag and pulled out her phone, swiping through the pictures with a wide grin. “Look, look at this one!” she said, showing Nino a picture of her and Chat Noir. Chat was leaning into her with his signature cocky grin, his arm wrapped around her shoulders, making her heart race even just from looking at it. Alya's eyes gleamed as she stared at the photo, unable to believe how close she was to the hero. “It was unreal, Nino. I still can’t get over it.”

Nino leaned in, eyes wide with admiration. "Yo, that's insane! And here I thought you’d just be getting a regular interview—this is on another level!"

Alya kept swiping through the photos. “And then there’s this one of the three of us!” she giggled, showing a picture of the trio together, all of them smiling. Marinette had a look of playful annoyance on her face as she mock-glared at Chat Noir, who had his usual mischievous grin plastered on his face, holding his baton in one hand and the camera in the other. “I swear, Marinette’s going to kill him for this picture, but I think it’s perfect!”

Nino laughed, grabbing the phone and looking at the pictures more closely. “I can't believe it, Alya. You really did it. You got a real interview with Chat Noir. And look how relaxed he is with you! He’s never like this with anyone, you know?”

Alya let out a small sigh, her fingers tracing the photo on the screen. “I know. That’s what makes it so special. He’s just so... genuine.”

Nino put an arm around her shoulder. “Well, I’m proud of you, babe. You made your dream happen, and you totally deserve it. I’m sure the Ladyblog is going to blow up even more now with these pics.”

Alya grinned, her eyes glowing with satisfaction. “You’re right. I’m gonna post them tonight and watch the entire city freak out. Chat Noir doesn’t let anyone get this close, and now I’ve got proof!”
She leaned back against him, resting her head on his shoulder. “This was the best day ever.”

Nino wrapped his arms around her. “And there’s more to come, trust me.”

Alya smiled, feeling content as she snuggled closer to Nino. She couldn’t wait for the world to see everything she had captured, but for now, she was happy to savor the memories of the day. She had met Chat Noir. She had interviewed him. And the Ladyblog was bound to go viral.

Chapter Text

Alya’s Ladyblog did, indeed, go viral overnight. The combination of Chat Noir’s relaxed demeanor, the personal nature of the interview, and the stunning pictures she had posted set social media ablaze. Every corner of Paris seemed to buzz with excitement over Alya’s newfound access to the city’s elusive hero. The Ladyblog’s comment section was flooded with fans, some envious, some amazed, but all with a shared admiration for Alya’s accomplishment. The sheer intimacy of the photos touched a chord with everyone, as no one had ever seen the usually guarded superhero so at ease.

Meanwhile, on the other side of Paris, the early morning sun was just beginning to peek through the curtains in Marinette's room. The soft tap at the trap door leading to her rooftop balcony came before she could even register the time. She groggily pulled the blanket over her head, burrowing deeper into the warmth. The tapping persisted, gentle yet insistent.

She heard the familiar creak of the door and, within moments, a shadow appeared in the doorway. Chat Noir slipped inside with his signature grin, his cat-like eyes gleaming with mischief. Without skipping a beat, he padded onto the bed and—without warning—curled up beside her, his presence warm and comforting.

Marinette, too drowsy to fully register what was happening, felt his arms slide around her as she shifted in her sleep. She leaned into his chest, unconsciously snuggling closer, her body responding to the comfort of his familiar presence. The rhythmic sound of his breathing and the warmth of his body against hers felt soothing in the early morning haze.

“Mmh… it’s too early for this, Chat Noir...” she muttered, her words a sleepy protest, her eyes still closed as she nuzzled against his chest.

Chat Noir chuckled softly, brushing a lock of her hair from her face. "Oh, but you’re always so warm, Marinette. I couldn’t resist."

Marinette mumbled again, too tired to make sense of his words, still convinced that it was just another playful early visit from her favorite superhero. “Just… five more minutes…”

That was when the realization finally hit. Her sleep-heavy brain began to process the situation. The warmth radiating from the body beside her, the scent of his cologne that she hadn't quite registered before, and the way he was so effortlessly close to her...
Her eyes shot open in an instant, wide with shock as she jerked away from him, her face flushing bright red. “Wait. Chat Noir?!” she blurted out, her voice betraying a mix of confusion and surprise. “What are you—why are you—”

“Good morning, Princess,” he purred, his wicked grin only widening at her flustered reaction. He propped himself up on one elbow, looking entirely too pleased with himself. “What, don’t tell me I’m not allowed to visit a friend when the sun’s barely up?”

Marinette blinked rapidly, still trying to process the fact that the superhero she admired—and who she secretly had feelings for—was not only in her bed but had apparently curled up beside her as if it were the most normal thing in the world.
“You… you’re not supposed to be here!” Marinette said, her voice rising in a mix of alarm and disbelief.

“Oh, but I am,” he said, clearly enjoying her reaction. His hand gently brushed her cheek as he added, “Besides, I think it’s the perfect way to start the day, don’t you?”

Marinette swallowed, her heart racing. This wasn’t real. This couldn’t be real. But there he was, grinning like a Cheshire cat, as if they had known each other for years. Marinette's thoughts whirled in a tangled mess, but one thing was certain: This was definitely not the morning she had expected.
Still, a part of her felt strangely content as she took in the warmth of his presence, the way his hand rested near her shoulder like it belonged there. And despite the whirlwind of emotions, part of her was still half-dazed and unsure whether she should be scolding him or just enjoying the moment.

"Chat... you should leave," she said, her words softer than she intended, as her gaze flickered nervously.

But Chat Noir just leaned back into the pillows, his playful eyes twinkling. "Marinette, you’re not really going to kick me out, are you? Not after I woke up early just to make your day better?"

Her heart skipped a beat at his words, and she fought to suppress the blush creeping up her cheeks. "You're impossible," she muttered, though her voice held no real weight to it.

“Impossible to resist,” he quipped with a wink.

Marinette sighed, knowing she wouldn't win this one. "I think I need more coffee before I can handle you."

“Agreed. But no coffee in the world will be able to shake the fact that you just woke up next to Chat Noir.” He smirked, his voice teasing, but there was a softness behind it too.

Marinette buried her face in her hands, utterly mortified. "I can't believe this."

Chat laughed, that wicked grin never fading. "Well, the day’s just beginning. Let's see what else we can make unforgettable."

And with that, Marinette couldn’t help but let out a small, incredulous laugh. Despite the chaos, despite everything, part of her was glad he was here. After all, how often does one get a chance to spend a morning like this with their favorite superhero?
Despite her inner protests, Marinette couldn’t help but feel a warmth spreading through her chest as Chat Noir remained comfortably by her side. Her body, still heavy with sleep, gave in to the cozy comfort of his presence. She was exhausted—her mind too foggy from sleep to deal with the whirlwind of emotions and confusion. The softness of the blankets, the warmth of his body, and the soothing sound of his steady breathing all conspired to lull her back into a state of drowsy contentment.
She shifted slightly, and without any protest, Chat Noir adjusted himself to lay down beside her more comfortably, pulling the blankets over both of them.

His arm draped across her waist in an almost natural gesture, pulling her closer as he nestled against her. She was, after all, his favorite civilian—one of the only people who made him feel human and not just a superhero.

For a moment, the chaos of the previous day—the interviews, the photos, the adrenaline—seemed far away. Now, it was just them, curled up in the soft, quiet morning light.

Marinette let out a small yawn, her eyes closing again. “You were amazing yesterday, sweet kitty,” she mumbled sleepily, her voice muffled by her exhaustion. “But now Alya will never shut up about you…”

Chat Noir chuckled softly, his hand gently brushing through her hair as she snuggled deeper into the warmth of his embrace. “I don’t mind. It’s good to be appreciated,” he teased, his voice light and playful.

Marinette let out a tired giggle, the sound soft in the quiet room. “I should’ve never promised her that interview with you...” she chuckled lightly, shaking her head. “She’s going to talk about this for ages…”

He could practically hear the smile in her voice, even as she drifted further into sleep. He gave her a little squeeze, pulling her closer as her breathing slowed and her body relaxed even more into his.
“Don’t worry, I’ll handle Alya,” he whispered, though his voice was becoming just as drowsy as hers. “She’s got enough enthusiasm to take on the whole city, so I’m sure she’ll keep herself busy.”

Marinette let out another soft laugh at that, but it quickly turned into a contented sigh as sleep began to claim her. Her head rested comfortably against his chest, her ear hearing the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, a sound that had somehow become as familiar to her as her own.

“Goodnight, Marinette,” Chat Noir murmured softly, his voice warm and full of affection, though his playful tone still lingered. He held her close, his thoughts calming as he, too, gave in to the lull of sleep.

A few hours later, the door to Marinette’s room swung open with a sudden burst of excitement. Alya and Nino stormed in, both grinning from ear to ear, eager to share the news about the Ladyblog going viral. But the moment they stepped through the door, their eyes widened, and their grins faltered. They both froze in place, staring at the sight before them.

Marinette, who had been attempting to sneak a few more minutes of sleep, was still tangled in the blankets, and beside her, was Chat Noir. Still asleep. With his messy blonde hair sticking out from under the covers and one of his cat ears poking out, the superhero was curled up beside her, clearly enjoying a nap. It was an utterly unexpected and bizarre sight.

Alya and Nino just stood there for a moment, their eyes wide in disbelief, their excitement quickly turning into confusion and shock. They could hardly believe what they were seeing.

Alya was the first to find her voice, but it came out as a breathless, stunned whisper. “Wait… is that… is that Chat Noir?” she asked, her voice trembling as she glanced at Nino for confirmation. Her eyes were practically popping out of her head.

Nino, equally stunned, could barely process the scene in front of him. He blinked rapidly, trying to make sense of the situation. “Wait, hold up…?” Nino's voice was filled with disbelief, still not quite comprehending what he was seeing.

Marinette, now wide awake and mortified, frantically grabbed the blankets and pulled them higher over Chat Noir’s sleeping form. She tried to hide the situation as best as she could, but there was no getting around it now. Alya and Nino had already seen enough to put the pieces together.

Just as Marinette was about to stammer something, a soft groan escaped from under the blankets. Chat Noir shifted slightly, stretching, the blanket falling back to reveal more of his messy hair and a sleepy expression. His cat ear twitched, and he yawned, clearly not bothered by the sudden intrusion.

“Mmh… you’re interrupting a cat’s beauty sleep…so rude..” Chat Noir mumbled, his voice muffled and groggy as he slowly began to wake up, clearly still half-asleep.

Marinette’s heart sank as she realized what was happening. No, no, no… she thought, her cheeks burning with embarrassment. The last thing she needed right now was Chat Noir being all relaxed and playful while her two best friends were staring in complete shock.

“I… I should’ve kicked you out,” Marinette muttered, her face bright red, her hands still gripping the blanket tightly as she tried to hide the situation.

Chat Noir, still half-asleep and with a grin tugging at his lips, stretched again and leaned back into the pillows, clearly enjoying the teasing moment. “But you didn’t,” he said, his voice light and teasing, still clearly not fully awake but amused by the chaos he was causing.

Marinette’s eye twitched in frustration, her embarrassment reaching new heights. “I’m going to kill you,” she mumbled under her breath, but her words were drowned out by Alya’s sudden exclamation.

“Marinette! What… what is this?” Alya finally managed to say, her voice filled with disbelief and excitement, as she tried to process what was happening. Her eyes were wide, and her mouth had fallen open. “Chat Noir… in your bed? What’s going on here?”

Nino stood frozen at the doorway, blinking rapidly as he tried to make sense of it all. “This is… this is unreal. Chat Noir, literally in your bed, first thing in the morning? What is happening right now?” His voice cracked slightly as he tried to comprehend the situation.

Marinette, now fully awake and completely embarrassed, pulled the blanket tighter around herself. “I—It’s not what it looks like!” she blurted out, her voice high-pitched from the panic. “I mean… He just… he showed up, and… we were just talking, and he… fell asleep!”

Alya, who had barely managed to stop gaping, narrowed her eyes mischievously. “Oh, really? Just ‘talking,’ huh?” she said slowly, clearly not buying it. “Because it looks like you two are very cozy right now.”

Chat Noir, still half-heartedly stretching, looked over at Alya with a lazy smile. “Well, what can I say? Sometimes a superhero needs a little catnap,” he said, grinning widely, completely unfazed by the fact that Alya and Nino were standing there, staring at them.

Marinette let out a small, mortified squeak, burying her face in her hands. “Alya, Nino, please… this isn’t what you think!” she pleaded, but Alya was practically glowing with excitement, her eyes practically dancing with curiosity.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Nino said, still stuck in disbelief. “This is next-level. You’re seriously telling me that Chat Noir just crashed here and fell asleep with you?”

Chat Noir let out a lazy yawn, clearly enjoying the situation. “Well, you know… heroes get tired too. I couldn’t exactly leave when I was so comfortable,” he teased, giving Marinette a playful look.

Alya looked at Marinette, her grin turning into one of pure mischief. “Oh, I’m definitely going to need to know everything,” she said, already pulling out her phone. “Everything.”

“Don’t you dare take any pictures, Alya!” Marinette half-shouted, throwing her arms out to block the camera, completely embarrassed. But Alya just grinned, completely undeterred.

“I’ll be the judge of that,” she said with a wink, ready to capture this moment for the world to see.

Marinette groaned, falling back onto the bed in defeat, her hands over her face. “I hate you both,” she muttered into the pillow.

Chat Noir chuckled softly beside her. “No you don’t,” he teased, clearly enjoying how flustered she was.

Nino, still processing, let out a laugh. “So… how do we explain this to everyone?”

Marinette barely had the energy to respond as she curled up under the blankets, feeling the weight of the situation sink in. She was sure this was the last time she’d get a peaceful morning ever again.

But Alya was already preparing her next question, and Nino was clearly in no rush to leave. This was definitely going to be the topic of conversation for the next long while.

Alya’s mischievous grin softened as she lowered her phone. “Okay, okay, Marinette, relax,” she said, her voice full of teasing but also surprisingly gentle. “I won’t take a picture… for now.” She winked, clearly still enjoying the moment, but also sensing that Marinette was about to implode from embarrassment.

Marinette let out a relieved sigh, her cheeks still flushed from the earlier shock. She sat up, still tangled in the sheets, and threw a glance at Chat Noir, who was now lazily stretching and curling back up beside her. “Thank you,” she muttered to Alya, though she was far from feeling at ease.

Alya, her excitement barely contained, flopped down on the edge of the bed. “But seriously, I’ve got big news!” she said, practically bouncing with enthusiasm. “The Ladyblog has gone viral! I mean, viral, Marinette! People are freaking out over the interview, especially with those pictures of me and Chat Noir. The hits are through the roof!”

Marinette blinked, her mind still a little foggy from the earlier shock and her sudden morning chaos. “Wait, what? It went viral?” She could hardly believe it. Of course, she’d known the Ladyblog would get attention, but this much attention? It was beyond anything they had anticipated.

Alya nodded eagerly, her grin almost impossible to suppress. “Yeah! I’ve been getting messages nonstop, and the whole city’s talking about it. Chat Noir’s fan base is crazy—everyone’s sharing the photos, commenting, even tagging me in their posts!” Alya paused, clearly still processing the magnitude of it all. “I tried texting you, but you didn’t respond, so I thought, why not just come over and tell you in person? I had to share this with you.”

Marinette was still processing Alya’s words, still trying to focus as her heart beat faster. She glanced down at Chat Noir, who was clearly not concerned with the excitement at all. Instead, he was starting to look even sleepier, his eyelids fluttering as he curled up beside her again.

The next thing Marinette knew, Chat Noir shifted in a lazy movement, his weight suddenly shifting over her as he crawled into a more comfortable position. Before she could react, his weight toppled her backward onto the bed, and she let out a startled gasp as she landed flat on her back, the air knocked out of her for a split second.

With a small, contented sigh, Chat Noir closed his eyes again, completely oblivious to the situation, his body lying sprawled across Marinette’s as if it were the most natural thing in the world. She could feel his warmth, the soft rise and fall of his chest as he relaxed into the bed.

Marinette blinked up at the ceiling, her heart racing. She couldn't believe what was happening. She was trapped under Chat Noir. And now her best friend, Alya, was sitting beside her, looking at her with a raised eyebrow and an expression that said, I’m not letting you off the hook this time.

Alya crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow. “Really? This is how he acts when he’s tired?” she teased, her voice low, but her grin wide as she watched Marinette try to wiggle out from under Chat Noir’s sleeping form.

Marinette groaned, barely able to get a word out as she found herself stuck beneath him. “Alya…” she said, her voice strained from the awkward position. “He’s sleeping. Can you please—?” She huffed, struggling to shift him off, but he was comfortably curled up with no sign of moving.

Alya raised an eyebrow, a smirk dancing on her lips. “So… this is what happens when the ‘mysterious’ Chat Noir gets comfy with his favorite civilian?” she teased. “This is way more than I bargained for when I came over to tell you about the Ladyblog going viral.”

Marinette, now with her hands awkwardly pushing at Chat Noir’s chest in a half-hearted attempt to get some space, let out a resigned sigh. “Alya, please. Don’t make it worse than it already is,” she said, her face burning again. “It’s not like this was planned. He just… fell asleep here.”

Alya was practically giggling, clearly loving every second of Marinette’s embarrassment. “I’m just messing with you,” she said with a wink. “But seriously, Marinette, I’m so happy for you. You’re part of this whole thing too! This is huge!”

Marinette couldn’t help but smile, even as she lay pinned under Chat Noir. “I know, I know,” she said, her voice softer now. “It’s just… it feels so crazy. I never expected things to blow up this much.”

“Well, it did,” Alya said, her tone a bit softer now, “and you deserve it. I’m so proud of you. The Ladyblog is going to be even bigger now with all the attention we’re getting. And those pictures? Definitely going to be iconic.”

Nino slowly stepped forward, still in shock as he stared at Chat Noir, now sprawled across Marinette with no sign of moving. He could hardly believe his eyes. Chat Noir—the real, actual superhero—was right in front of him, and it was all so surreal. He stood frozen for a moment, just watching the scene unfold. His eyes flickered from Chat Noir’s peaceful, sleep-heavy expression to the uncomfortable way Marinette was clearly trying to escape.

"Guys?" Marinette’s strained voice rang out from under the superhero’s weight, cutting through the room. "A little help?" she added, her voice higher now as she shot an exasperated glare at the sleepy cat still lying comfortably on her. "Why are you like this..."

She squirmed again, trying in vain to push Chat Noir off of her, but he was just too heavy, and in his sleepy state, too stubborn to move. Her frustration started to build, and it was clear she wasn’t going to get anywhere without help.

“Marinette…” Alya started, but before she could even finish her sentence, Marinette’s patience seemed to snap. She gritted her teeth, and in one swift movement, she leaned forward and bit down on one of Chat Noir’s cat ears—hard.

The effect was immediate. Chat Noir yelped loudly, his body jolting upright in an instant. He scrambled to a sitting position, his furiously twitching ear betraying the pain of the bite. His eyes snapped open in confusion, still half-dazed from sleep.
"Ow! What the—?" he grumbled, shaking his head as he tried to wake up fully, his ears flattened against his head as he glared at Marinette. But he was still groggy, and his annoyance only seemed to grow as he hissed at her, a sound that sent a chill through the room. His voice was slurred with sleep as he growls. “M-Marinette… why’d you—”

Marinette, now sitting up in the bed, shot him a glare that could have frozen the entire room. Her voice was dangerously low, her eyes narrowing with clear fury. “You did. NOT. just hiss at me.”

Chat Noir, still a little stunned and more than a little confused, blinked up at her. “Wha—?”

“You nearly suffocated me, and you dare hiss at me?” Marinette’s words were icy, every syllable like a warning. Her fists were clenched at her sides, her tone sharpening like a blade.

Chat Noir flinched. He looked at her for a moment, realizing—really realizing—that he had, indeed, been sprawled across her, and in his tired state, had probably crushed her under his weight while she was trying to push him off. The thought of it made his ears flick again, and he immediately shrank back from the force of her glare. He was startled, his usual confidence a little shaken by the anger in her eyes.
For the first time, he actually looked somewhat like a cat caught in the middle of an angry confrontation, a bit of a mix between confusion and guilt. He opened his mouth to say something but stopped when he saw the serious look in Marinette’s eyes. He could only shrink back a little more.

Seeing him cower, Marinette’s gaze turned from him to Alya and Nino, who were standing on the sidelines, frozen in shock. The tension in the room shifted, and Marinette’s focus snapped to them with a cold intensity.
"As for you two..." Marinette’s voice dropped, almost like a low growl, and it made both Alya and Nino flinch slightly. It was clear that whatever had snapped inside of Marinette was taking full control now. "Barging into my room without bothering to knock first. Then, making fun of me, threatening to take pictures of me and wanting to put it out to the public? You think that's okay? Even as a joke?" she continued, her eyes blazing with anger. “And when I asked for help to move Chat Noir off of me while I was clearly in distress, you couldn’t be bothered in the slightest?!”

Alya and Nino’s mouths went dry. They had been expecting playful teasing, maybe some laughter but they hadn’t expected this. They’d never seen Marinette this serious, this angry before. It was like she’d become someone else entirely, someone they barely recognized.

Alya opened her mouth to say something, but her words caught in her throat, and she couldn’t find anything to say. Her usual confidence faltered in the face of Marinette’s rage.

Nino, too, stood there, his body stiff with unease. He had never seen Marinette this upset, and something in his gut told him that, maybe, they had pushed things a little too far. He glanced nervously at Alya, then back at Marinette.

“I… we didn’t mean to upset you,” Alya said quietly, her voice no longer filled with the usual teasing. She took a step forward, her expression softening as she realized just how much her joke had hurt Marinette. “I’m sorry, okay? I just got so excited about the Ladyblog going viral, and… I didn’t think. I wasn’t thinking. We should’ve knocked first, we should’ve been more considerate.”

Nino nodded in agreement, his voice gentle. “Yeah, Marinette… we didn’t mean to make you feel like this. We’re sorry.”

Marinette looked at them both for a long moment, her heart still racing from the surge of emotions. But slowly, as the tension between them somewhat began to clear, she took a deep breath. It wasn’t about holding onto anger; it was about making sure they understood how much they had hurt her.
“I just… I need you both to understand that I’m not okay with this,” Marinette said, her voice quieter now but still firm. “You’re my friends. I don’t want to feel like I’m a joke. Especially not after everything that happened with Chat Noir.”

Alya and Nino stood there, both looking deeply apologetic, and Marinette could see that they understood.

Chat Noir, meanwhile, still looking a little sheepish, sat up and rubbed the back of his neck. “I, uh… I’m sorry too, Marinette,” he said quietly, his voice much softer than usual. He shot her a slightly bashful smile. “I really didn’t mean to make things worse. Guess I got a little too comfy there, huh?”

“From now on, think before you act. All of you.” Marinette glares, but it wasn't as fierce as before.

Alya nodded, now fully realizing just how much their teasing had hurt their friend. “You’re right,” she said sincerely. “We’ll be more careful, I promise.”

Nino stepped forward as well, giving Marinette a gentle smile. “We’re really sorry, Marinette. We didn’t mean to overstep.”

Marinette gave a small nod, but she was still firm. “I appreciate that. Just remember, next time, I’m not always going to let things slide.”

"Now get out," she commanded, her tone icy and resolute. "All of you. And don’t bother coming back."

Alya and Nino froze. It felt like the very air had thickened around them, pressing against their chests. They had never seen Marinette this angry before, this unyielding. Her eyes were narrowed with such intensity that it felt as though she was cutting through them, and the softness she usually carried was nowhere to be found.

Nino opened his mouth to say something, to try and explain himself, but the words stuck in his throat. He was caught in the weight of her anger, unsure how to fix what they had done, or if it could even be fixed at all. Alya, too, looked at her friend, her face filled with a mix of guilt and regret.

But before either of them could speak, Chat Noir, still on the edge of the bed, seemed to hesitate. He looked at Marinette, the silence between them heavy, filled with unspoken understanding. His usual teasing demeanor had completely evaporated. His eyes softened with the realization of how much he had crossed a line, how he had contributed to the chaos and made her feel like nothing more than a joke.
“Marinette,” he tried, his voice quieter now, the teasing note gone entirely. “I… I truly didn’t mean to make things worse.”

But Marinette’s gaze remained cold, unwavering. Her lips pressed together in a tight line, and her eyes flashed with an emotion that Chat Noir knew all too well—disappointment. The silence that followed her response was deafening, and it spoke volumes.
She didn’t need to say anything else. Her silence was its own statement, more powerful than anything she could have vocalized. It was final. It was a boundary she had set, and she was not going to back down.

The weight of that silence hit Chat Noir harder than anything else had in a long time. He swallowed, his usual bravado faltering under the intensity of her gaze. His ears flattened against his head, looking regretful.

With a heavy sigh, he pushed himself off the bed, the guilt weighing down his every movement. He looked at Marinette one last time, his shoulders slumping slightly. There was nothing else to say, nothing else to do. He was part of the problem.

He stepped toward the open window, his movements slow and reluctant, as though he were leaving something behind that he wasn’t ready to let go of.
“...I’m sorry...” he muttered, though it felt like an empty echo, swallowed by the quiet tension in the room.
With that, he disappeared out the window, his body melting into the shadows as he vanished into the early morning light, his tail trailing behind him like the final remnants of a fading dream.

Marinette stared after him for a long moment, her expression unreadable, before she let out a shaky breath. The weight of the morning was still heavy on her shoulders, but she didn’t let herself break down. Not yet.

Alya and Nino stood awkwardly in the doorway, the silence between them now thick with tension. Alya wanted to apologize, but she knew the words wouldn’t be enough, and right now, nothing would fix what they had done.

Marinette slowly turned her head to look at them. Her eyes softened just a little, but the hurt was still there, raw and fresh.
“I need some time,” she said quietly, her voice still firm, but with an edge of exhaustion. “All of you… just leave me alone.”

Nino and Alya exchanged glances, both feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on them. There was nothing else to say.
They nodded slowly, their faces filled with regret, and without another word, they left, closing the door quietly behind them.

Marinette, left alone in her room, let out a deep, long sigh. She sank back onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling, her body feeling drained. She couldn’t believe how much everything had spiraled in such a short time. She was still processing the chaos, the frustration, and the deep sense of disappointment that lingered in her chest.
And yet, as the room fell silent, her thoughts turned to Chat Noir. A part of her wanted to believe that he hadn’t meant to make things worse. But another part of her—the part that was still angry, still hurt—knew she had to take a step back, to regain control of the situation.
For now, though, there was nothing else to do but lie there, surrounded by the quiet of her room, and let the emotions settle.
Maybe, in time, things would get better. But for now, Marinette knew she had to stand her ground.

Marinette’s gaze drifted slowly to the black cat plush sitting on her bed, the one she had made months ago. The plush resembled Chat Noir perfectly—right down to the bell around its neck and the mischievous green eyes that always seemed to sparkle with life. She had poured so much love into creating it, an object of comfort that had always made her smile during tough days. But now, in the quiet of her room, it felt like a reminder of everything that had gone wrong.
Her eyes lingered on the plush, but instead of the warm comfort it usually brought, it now only served to stir a deep ache in her chest. It wasn’t just the plush itself—what it represented, what Chat Noir had become to her, that familiar, playful superhero, was part of her current frustration. She knew that it had never been Chat Noir’s intention to hurt her. He had simply been acting in the way he always did—playful, cuddly, and in need of companionship. He hadn’t meant to make her feel trapped, to suffocate her beneath his weight. But the truth was, at that moment, it hadn’t mattered. The way she had felt, helpless and unable to move, had made her feel vulnerable and unseen.

With a deep sigh, Marinette turned her head away from the plush. The simple act of seeing it only reminded her of how tangled her feelings for him had become. It was more than just the moment on the bed—there was something else that lingered beneath the surface, something deeper and more complicated. Her mind swirled with all the conflicting emotions: the anger she felt toward her friends for not listening to her when she asked for help, the hurt from Chat Noir’s actions, and even the guilt for how she had reacted. But mostly, there was the ache in her chest...the quiet sadness of realizing that even though she cared about Chat Noir, she needed space.
She knew she would see him again. She knew that, deep down, Chat Noir was truly sorry for what had happened. But right now, all she could do was breathe and try to find some peace in the aftermath. She needed time to collect her thoughts, to understand what had happened and why it had affected her so much. She needed to process the raw emotions still swirling in her chest, to sort through them before they consumed her.

For now, Marinette curled into herself under the blankets, her arms wrapping around her knees as she let herself feel the weight of the moment. The quiet of her room felt different now, almost suffocating in its stillness, but she didn’t mind. The silence gave her the space she needed to think, to understand what had been stirred up inside her.
Her eyes closed slowly as she let herself drift into a quiet, uneasy rest, still replaying the events of the morning in her mind. She would deal with the aftermath later.

And somewhere, out there, Chat Noir was probably feeling just as lost and conflicted.

Chapter Text

Marinette had stayed home from school for a few days, unsure of how to face her friends or how to face herself, for that matter. The whirlwind of emotions that had followed that morning still weighed heavily on her, and she had needed time to process everything, to try and find clarity. Her room had become a safe, quiet space, where she could pull herself together before having to deal with the fallout.

But on the fourth day of her absence, as the sun’s rays began to filter through her curtains, there came a soft knock at the trap door above her room. It was a familiar sound, one that she had once looked forward to, except this time, the anticipation wasn’t as sweet. Her chest tightened as she debated whether or not to open the door. She wasn’t sure if she was ready to see him, even if she had missed him deeply.

Taking a deep breath, she stood up and moved toward the trap door. With a hesitant hand, she unlocked it, pushing it open. But it wasn’t Chat Noir who greeted her as she peered outside. Instead, sitting on the floor by the door, was a carefully arranged bouquet of flowers.

The soft petals of the blue hyacinths caught her eye. She knew immediately what they meant...an apology. Sincere regret. A gesture of understanding.

Her heart squeezed at the sight of them, the subtle little details of the vase, even the paw print etched into its base. She ran her fingers over the delicate surface, and her throat tightened as she whispered softly to herself, “Oh… sweet kitty…”

Then, from above, she heard the soft jingle of his bell. It was faint but unmistakable. He was up there, on the roof, just as she had suspected. And though the distance between them was physical, she could feel the hesitation in the air. He was giving her space. He was respecting the boundary she had set, the very one that she hadn’t known she needed until it was too late.

She gazed upward, her eyes searching for him, and there he was, perched on the edge of the roof. His ears were flattened against his head, his usual confidence gone, replaced with uncertainty. His green eyes met hers, filled with regret, and something softer that made her heart ache even more. It was a look that said more than words ever could.

Without thinking, her heart won over her mind, and she whispered, her voice barely above a breath, “Come here…”

The words were simple, quiet, but they held all the warmth she had been holding back. She could feel the tension in the air shift, and without hesitation, Chat Noir began to climb down the side of the building, his movements slow and deliberate. He stopped when he reached the balcony, just a few feet away from her, his gaze still uncertain, still waiting for her to say something—anything—to break the silence.

Marinette, her heart pounding in her chest, took a step forward. Her eyes stayed on him, searching his face, trying to read the emotions there. She could see the guilt in his eyes, the way his tail flicked nervously. But more than that, she could see the genuine care he had for her, the unspoken bond between them. Her chest tightened, and without thinking twice, she reached out, pulling him into a gentle hug.

There were no words, no need for them. In that moment, everything was said without speaking. The apology was in the flowers, the regret in his eyes, and the warmth of their embrace. The tension from the past few days seemed to melt away as they stood there, together, as if the world outside didn’t matter.

Marinette let herself lean into him, her fingers curling into his suit, her heart calming in his embrace.

For the first time in days, she felt like she could breathe. Her frustrations, her hurt, and her confusion were still there, but in this moment, none of that mattered. What mattered was the comfort of his presence, the understanding that they didn’t need to say anything to heal the rift between them.

Chat Noir’s arms wrapped around her gently, his own exhaustion and sadness reflected in the way he held her. He hadn’t been expecting this, hadn’t expected her to let him in so soon, but she had. And in that soft, tender hug, they both knew that things could begin to heal—at their own pace, in their own time.

As they stood there, wrapped in the quiet of the moment, the world outside seemed far away. For now, this was enough. And for the first time in a while, Marinette allowed herself to feel something other than sadness or anger. She allowed herself to feel peace.

And for Chat Noir, he let go of the guilt that had been gnawing at him, knowing that with Marinette, forgiveness didn’t need to be spoken—it could be felt.

They stood there, wrapped in each other’s arms, the quiet of the moment stretching on, the world outside forgotten for now. Neither of them seemed willing to pull away, as if the simple act of holding onto each other could erase the hurt from the past few days. Marinette’s heart slowly began to settle, her pulse still racing from the intense emotions, but her body felt lighter, as though the weight of her frustration and sorrow was being lifted, piece by piece.

Marinette’s hand slowly shifted, moving down to take his claw. Her fingers trembled slightly, but she took his hand with a soft, almost shy touch. With gentle determination, she intertwined their fingers, the feeling of his claw against her hand somehow grounding her, reminding her that despite everything, they were still here, together.

Another quiet moment passed, the only sounds between them the faint hum of the city outside and the rhythm of their breathing. Marinette’s gaze lifted, her eyes meeting his. She saw the concern in his expression, the way his gaze never left hers, as though searching for any trace of the hurt he had caused her. But when Marinette met his eyes, she could see something else too—his own guilt, the weight of his actions. And it mirrored her own.

Her lips trembled slightly as she spoke, her voice quiet, but clear. "I owe you an apology too, Chat Noir," she began, her words heavy with the emotion she had been holding back. "I— I never meant to lash out like that… it wasn't right." Her breath hitched as she struggled to find the right words, guilt and self-reproach flooding her chest. She could feel her heart hammering, but she pushed through, determined to say what needed to be said. "I was angry, yes… but the way I reacted… that's not me."

Marinette’s eyes flickered down, and before she could stop herself, she pressed her face into his chest, her voice muffled as she struggled to keep her tears at bay. She tightened her grip around his hand, feeling the steady warmth of his presence as a comfort, though her heart ached with the weight of her words. "To clarify… I don't mind being close to you," she whispered, each word carrying the tremor of her vulnerability. "Napping with you… your surprise visits are honestly the best…"

She closed her eyes, trying to steady her breathing, and continued, though the words came out more haltingly now. "But I was exhausted… and then Alya and Nino came in, and everything that happened... it was just too much... I panicked. But I should've never lashed out like that. I’m so sorry, Chat Noir."

Her hand, still entwined with his, tightened as she buried her face deeper against his chest, as if trying to hold herself together, even though it felt like the floodgates might break at any moment. The words were pouring out now, but despite the apology, it didn’t feel like enough. The guilt still lingered, clouding her mind. She had acted out of fear and exhaustion, but that didn’t excuse her actions.

Chat Noir was silent for a long moment, simply holding her. His arms wrapped tighter around her, as though offering a physical reassurance that she wasn’t alone, that he wasn’t going anywhere. After a few beats, he let out a quiet sigh, his voice soft but steady. “Marinette…” he whispered, his tone tinged with sadness but also an understanding that mirrored her own. “You don’t owe me anything.”
He paused, his fingers gently stroking her hair as he spoke again. “I should’ve known better than to invade your space like that, especially when you were already overwhelmed. I’ve never meant to make you feel trapped. I just… I guess I didn’t think, and I’m sorry for that. I’m not perfect, and sometimes I get carried away, but I swear, I never wanted to hurt you.”

His words seemed to linger in the air, as if he were giving her permission to release whatever emotions had been building up inside her. He could feel the tremble in her form, the way her shoulders shook slightly, but there was no pressure for her to speak. He simply held her, letting her take the time she needed.

Marinette finally lifted her head, her eyes wet with the start of tears, but she smiled softly up at him, the weight of the tension between them beginning to dissipate. The air between them felt different now, lighter, as though they had both taken steps toward understanding. And even though there were still emotions to untangle, something inside Marinette began to settle.

She squeezed his hand once more, the gesture simple, but full of meaning. "Thank you, Chat Noir," she whispered, her voice small but filled with sincerity. "For understanding."

Chat Noir smiled gently down at her, his green eyes full of warmth and affection. “Always, Marinette. I’ll always understand.”

And there, in that shared silence, they both felt the deep bond between them, one that was unspoken but undeniable. The moment was a step forward, and though it didn’t erase the pain or the confusion of the past few days, it was a quiet promise. A promise that they would work through it together, side by side.

The weight that had hung over both of them since that fateful morning was slowly dissipating. For the first time in days, Marinette felt lighter, as though a weight she hadn’t even realized she’d been carrying had been lifted from her shoulders. She could feel the warmth of Chat Noir’s embrace, the gentle reassurance in his touch as he nuzzled her cheek, his familiar cat-like affection bringing a comfort she hadn’t expected.

But then his words took her completely off guard.
"I was really worried when you stopped coming to school... I—I gave you space like you asked, but today... I just... couldn't stay away... not entirely..." His voice trailed off with a soft sigh, and for a moment, Marinette was too stunned to react.

School? He... went to her school?

Marinette pulled back slightly, her heart racing as her mind tried to catch up with the sudden revelation. School? He goes to my school? Her thoughts were reeling. Wait... that means... he’s been around me the whole time, and I had no idea?

She glanced up at him, her eyes wide with surprise. Chat Noir seemed to realize his slip-up a moment too late. His expression faltered, and his mouth opened, clearly about to say something to cover his mistake. But then, as if something inside him snapped, he closed his mouth and shook his head lightly, as though giving up on trying to keep up the façade.

"I can't do this anymore..." His voice was softer now, almost a whisper, but the weight of his words hung heavily between them. His eyes closed tightly, his shoulders sagging with something close to exhaustion. Marinette’s heart tightened at the vulnerability she could see in him now, he was no longer the playful, cocky Chat Noir she was used to. There was something raw and uncertain in the way he held himself. "I trust you... more than life itself."

Her breath hitched in her chest as he looked back at her, his eyes filled with something so intense, so sincere, that it made her heart flutter, despite the confusion swirling inside her. She opened her mouth to ask what he meant, but before she could get the words out, he took a shaky breath and said the one thing that would shatter everything she had thought she knew.

"I'm Adrien, Marinette."

The world seemed to stop.

Marinette froze, the weight of his confession hanging in the air, thick and suffocating. Her heart skipped a beat, her mind struggling to process his words. Adrien...?

Her breath caught in her throat as her gaze locked onto him, his green eyes so painfully familiar now, the confession ringing in her ears like a distant echo.

Adrien...

For a moment, everything felt out of focus. The noise of the city, everything seemed to blur away, leaving only her and him. The pieces finally clicked into place—his green eyes, his smile, the way he always seemed to be in the right place at the right time, the way he carried himself with that underlying sweetness and care. It had always been there, right in front of her, and yet she hadn’t been able to see it.

"Adrien..." she whispered, her voice barely above a breath. She couldn’t believe it. Adrien, the boy I’ve known for so long... the one who... She blinked, trying to steady herself. She felt a wave of disbelief, followed by something else. Was this... really happening?

Chat Noir looked down at her, his expression filled with a mixture of fear and hope. The way his eyes searched hers made her chest tighten.

For a moment, Marinette didn’t know how to respond. The shock of his revelation was still sinking in, her heart hammering in her chest as she tried to comprehend the depth of it all. Adrien, my classmate... my friend... and Chat Noir... It was all too much to take in at once.
But then, a feeling began to rise inside her, a warmth she had been too afraid to admit before. The shock was still there, yes, but beneath it was a deep sense of relief. This was him all along. The person she had admired, the person who had shared so many moments with her, was standing right in front of her, vulnerable and honest.

She slowly reached up, cupping his face in her hands. The silence between them deepened as Marinette gently traced the edges of Chat Noir's mask with her fingers, the touch soft and hesitant. Her fingers lingered on the fabric, as though absorbing the last few remnants of the persona he wore so well. But beneath that mask, she saw him—Adrien. The boy she had grown so close to, the one she admired, laughed with, and—had deep feelings for.

She could feel the weight of the moment press against her chest, and Chat Noir’s voice, shaky and filled with fear, broke through her thoughts.

"Ladybug... if she finds out..." he began, his eyes flickering with worry. "If she finds out I revealed my identity to someone... I’m not sure... if she’ll understand... she might not trust you to keep it secret... but I have to tell her about this, right? She’s my partner... the leader... I—"

Marinette gently cupped his face once more, her touch reassuring and calming, effectively cutting him off. "No need to worry about that, sweet kitty..." Her voice was soft, yet firm, and the words were filled with a tenderness he had always sought from her. She knew the depth of his concerns—he genuinely was loyal to Ladybug, always had been, and he feared what revealing his true identity to someone else would mean for their partnership.

But then, as their eyes locked once more, something shifted. Chat Noir's eyes widened slightly as he studied her, really studied her. There was something familiar in the way her gaze held his—those intense blue eyes, that fierce yet kind energy that radiated from her. His heart skipped a beat as memories flooded back: the way she fought with such grace and strength during their sparring match a few weeks ago, the undeniable chemistry between them whenever they were together, even in their superhero personas.
In that moment, everything clicked into place. Her eyes—her spirit—had always reminded him of Ladybug, but now he understood why. He had even called her their 'everyday Ladybug' before. The kindness, the fierceness, the way she always seemed to have his back, no matter the odds. The realization was like a jolt of electricity that rushed through his veins.

Marinette noticed the way his eyes shifted, the flicker of realization washing over him. She didn’t need to say a word; it was as if the answer was clear to him now. She could see the way his gaze softened, filled with a mixture of surprise, relief, and something deeper that made her heart skip.

He finally spoke, his voice barely above a whisper, filled with awe and disbelief. "You... you’re Ladybug...aren't you...?" His words hung in the air between them like a confession that had been years in the making.

Marinette nodded slowly, her eyes holding nothing but sincerity. "I am."

A rush of emotions swept through both of them. The tension that had lingered for so long between the two of them—Chat Noir and Ladybug, Marinette and Adrien—began to dissipate. No more secrets, no more pretending. They were no longer two separate people in two separate worlds; they were one.

For a moment, neither of them moved, both unsure of what to say next. But the weight of everything that had been unsaid between them seemed to lift as they simply stood there, face-to-face, sharing this moment of mutual understanding.

Chat Noir’s features softened as he gazed at her, his heart still racing. The fierce protectiveness, the admiration, the affection he had always felt for her, both as Ladybug and Marinette, was suddenly overflowing now. But there was more to it than that—he had been falling for Marinette all along, and now he saw her for who she truly was. His feelings for Ladybug and Marinette were one and the same. There was no need for a choice anymore.

Marinette, too, felt a weight lift from her shoulders. The secret she had kept hidden, the tension she’d felt between her two identities, was now gone. She no longer had to choose between Adrien and Chat Noir—because they were one in the same, and her heart had room for both of them.
The thought that her feelings for both Adrien and Chat Noir could coexist in this new, shared truth was like a relief. And with it, she felt something else stir inside her: hope. A new chapter could begin now, one where they could navigate their identities together.

They stood there for a long moment, gazing at one another, each processing the enormity of what had just happened.

Finally, Chat Noir smiled, a small, hesitant thing, but it was real—one of those smiles that was full of warmth and affection. “I’m really glad it’s you,” he admitted, his voice quiet but full of emotion. “I’ve always trusted you, Marinette... and now that I know... it makes everything feel... right.”

Marinette’s heart swelled, and she gave him a shy smile in return. “I’m glad it’s you too, Adrien...” She chuckled softly, though there was a hint of nervousness in her voice. “I guess we’ve both been a little blind, huh?”

Chat Noir let out a small, sheepish laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah, just a little. But at least we’ve got it figured out now.”

There was a moment of silence, and then Adrien gently cupped her face, his thumb brushing against her cheek in a tender, intimate gesture. The energy between them shifted again—softer, gentler, but still full of unspoken emotion.

Marinette’s breath hitched as she looked up into his eyes, the weight of everything falling into place. “So... what happens now?” she asked, her voice a little shy, but full of curiosity.

Adrien’s gaze softened, and his voice was full of warmth as he answered, “Now, we take it one step at a time. Together.”

Marinette couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of it all as the weight of everything shifted into something almost comical. "I can’t believe the boy who I’ve been falling for since the first day of school is also the cocky super catboy who has stolen my heart at first purr!" she said, her laughter ringing through the air.

Chat Noir’s eyes widened, and for a brief moment, he froze, utterly taken aback by her words. He stared at her, blinking rapidly as his mind processed what she had just said. “Wait, wait, wait,” he began, his voice rising in disbelief. “So you’re telling me you spent all this time rejecting me as Ladybug, saying you already fell for someone else—but that someone else was me?! Does that mean..I'm..BUTTERCUP?!”
As if the absurdity of it all hit him all at once, he burst into uncontrollable laughter, his head thrown back, his whole body shaking with the force of it. “This is too much!” he exclaimed between fits of giggles. “Here I was, thinking I was chasing the wrong person, but all along you were falling for me—both of me!”

Marinette’s face flushed a deep shade of red, and she couldn’t help but join in, laughing along with him. “It’s a little complicated, okay?” she said between giggles, wiping away a few tears that had formed from the laughter. “I didn’t know how to handle everything...being Ladybug, having a crush on you as Adrien, and then Chat Noir showing up all the time, all cocky and mysterious. I was so mixed up, I didn’t even realize I was falling for you the whole time!”

Chat Noir’s laughter died down, but the grin on his face never wavered. “Oh, this is priceless,” he said, his voice light and teasing. “You literally rejected me as the hero, thinking I wasn’t your type—while I was the same guy you were falling for.” His eyes sparkled with a mischievous glint. “I’m gonna need a moment to recover from this.”

Marinette rolled her eyes playfully. “I never said you weren’t my type! I just wasn’t ready to admit it. And, well, you did keep turning everything into a joke. It was hard to take you seriously when you were always so... so Chat Noir.”

“Well,” he said, leaning in with that same cocky grin of his, “maybe you just needed to see the real me, huh?”

Her heart fluttered at that. “Maybe,” she agreed, a soft smile tugging at her lips. “But now that I know, the ‘real’ you is even better than I imagined.”

Chat Noir’s grin softened, and for a moment, they simply stood there, the laughter dying down as they shared a tender silence. The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them in this newfound truth.

“Okay, okay,” Marinette said, breaking the moment with a playful sigh. “So you’re telling me, I’ve been swooning over you as Adrien and as Chat Noir... and I had no idea it was the same person?”

“Yup.” Chat Noir’s grin returned in full force. “Seems like I’ve had you wrapped around my little finger this whole time.”

Marinette raised an eyebrow. “You’ve never been shy about your ego, have you?”

“Hey, I’m just confident in my charm!” he replied with a wink.

She chuckled softly. “Well, your charm definitely worked on me... even if I didn’t realize it at the time.”

Chat Noir looked at her seriously now, the playful teasing fading as something more sincere took its place. “I never meant to make things complicated for you, Marinette. I just... I just wanted to be with you, no matter who you were. But I’m glad we can finally be real with each other.”

Marinette nodded, her eyes soft and full of affection. “Yeah, me too, Chat Noir. Or should I say... Adrien?”

His smile returned, this time with a gentler warmth. “Adrien works just fine,” he said, his voice low and sincere.

For a moment, the world outside the two of them seemed to disappear, and they were simply two people who had shared the weight of their secrets and the tenderness of their feelings.

Chat Noir’s laughter mixed with Marinette’s as she continued, her voice filled with disbelief and amusement. “Alya and Nino, they were so awestruck by you, the elusive superhero who only passed by with a grin... dying to meet you... and yet, in reality, they’re best friends with you. They have lunch with you, spend time with you during and after school every day!” She paused for a moment, a giggle bubbling up. “And they have no idea they’ve been starstruck messes when they finally met you—when you’ve been there with them the entire time!”

Chat Noir’s eyes widened as realization hit him, and he burst into laughter. “Wait, you’re right! They have no clue! The whole time they were talking about how ‘cool’ Chat Noir is, and I was sitting right there, chatting with them as Adrien!” He shook his head, still grinning. “I’ve been playing my role purrrfectly, haven’t I?”

Marinette nodded, laughing so hard she had to wipe a tear from her eye. “They've been dying to meet you, and there you were, sitting right across from them in school! I bet Nino was so jealous when he saw you with me the other day, too.”

“Oh, I know he was! You should’ve seen his face when I showed up on the Ladyblog—he was freaking out. If only he knew I was the one sitting next to him in history class, sharing memes about Ladybug.” Chat Noir let out another chuckle. “Honestly, I’m still trying to figure out how they haven’t pieced it together yet.”

Marinette giggled, shaking her head. “Alya has been so focused on you, she probably hasn’t noticed the little details. But I’m pretty sure, now that we know everything, they’re going to realize how obvious it is. Like, all those times we’ve hung out, and I would always look at you like you were the greatest thing since sliced bread.” She paused, then smirked. “And the whole time, you were the greatest thing since sliced bread. You were right in front of me.”

Chat Noir’s smirk softened, his eyes warming as he gazed at her. “I’ve been right here for a while now... and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Marinette's heart fluttered at his words, and she couldn’t help but return the warmth in his gaze. “Yeah,” she whispered, “me neither.”

For a moment, they simply stood there, the joy of their revelations settling between them, everything finally clicking into place. There was no more hiding, no more pretending. They were who they were, with all the complexity and messiness that came with it, but it was real. And that was all that mattered.

“And you know what’s even better?” Marinette said, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “The next time Alya and Nino get all starstruck about you, I’ll just sit back and let them freak out, knowing they’ve been swooning over their best friend all along.” She burst into giggles again, loving the idea of the moment when everything would click for her friends.

Chat Noir chuckled along with her, giving a dramatic sigh as if the thought of it was a burden. “I can’t wait to see their faces when they realize it was me all along. The look on Nino’s face will be priceless.”

“Oh, it will be,” Marinette agreed, her laughter dying down as she looked up at him, her heart swelling with affection. “And honestly? I’m kind of looking forward to seeing how they react. I think they’ll be just as shocked as we were when we finally figured it out.”

Chat Noir nodded, his playful grin returning. “Well, it’ll be fun. But, for now... how about we just enjoy this moment?” He reached out, gently taking her hand in his, his thumb brushing over her knuckles.

Marinette smiled, her heart full of warmth as she squeezed his hand. “Yeah... for now, let’s just enjoy this.”

Marinette’s grin widened as she pulled back slightly, her eyes sparkling with mischief. The weight of all the secrets had lifted, and her heart felt lighter than it had in ages. "Wait a minute... a few weeks ago..." she began, her voice teasing. "When I was so scared about breaking your trust, Chat Noir, because I accidentally misspoke about hanging out with you... and then you—YOU purred when we had that conversation on the school rooftop! You purred... as a civilian?!"
She leaned forward, a playful glint in her eyes. "Chat Noir, you purr as Adrien?! You do that as a normal, everyday boy?!"

Chat Noir’s eyes went wide, and his face turned a deep shade of pink. He opened his mouth to explain but immediately shut it, realizing that trying to explain would only make it worse. The awkwardness was palpable.
Marinette couldn’t help but laugh, the sound bubbling out of her with pure joy.

She stepped closer to him, her arms crossed over her chest as she grinned even wider.

"Okay, okay, it wasn’t intentional!" Chat Noir finally blurted, trying to salvage the situation, but Marinette was relentless in her teasing. "I didn’t mean to purr, alright? It just kind of... slipped out."

“Slipped out?” Marinette gasped dramatically, still grinning ear to ear. "Slipped out? You just casually purred as Adrien? I mean, you're Chat Noir, the superhero, so I totally get it! But Adrien Agreste, my classmate, just casually purring on the school rooftop like it’s the most normal thing in the world?"

Chat Noir let out a long sigh, clearly defeated by the situation. "Okay, okay, I admit it. It’s a thing. You know, it’s... my thing. It’s part of my charm!"

Marinette raised an eyebrow, her voice teasing as she leaned in closer. “So what? You’re telling me, when you’re just Adrien, you get all relaxed and comfy and purr like you’re a kitten in the sun?"

“I don’t know why it happens, okay?!” Chat Noir huffed, rubbing the back of his neck. “It’s just something I’ve always done since becoming Chat Noir... and I don’t do it on purpose, Marinette! It’s not like I was trying to give you some kind of clue or something!”

Marinette giggled again, completely amused by the situation. "I can’t believe this. I was so worried about your trust, and all along you were just... purring as Adrien." She paused and leaned her head back, pretending to be lost in thought. "I guess I can’t really be mad at you now, can I? I mean, that adorable sound has definitely been distracting enough."

"Hey!" Chat Noir huffed in mock offense, "I’m not that distracting! And it’s not my fault you just so happen to have a thing for cats!" He smirked playfully, though the warmth in his voice made it clear that the teasing was all in good fun.

Marinette, still grinning, shook her head and crossed her arms. "No, no, I think the real question here is: What does your purring mean, huh? Was it just an accident or were you trying to charm me without even realizing it?" She couldn’t resist adding with a teasing wink, “Because let me tell you, if it was part of your master plan, you’ve been succeeding!”

Chat Noir blinked in surprise at the playful accusation, his cheeks pinkening once more. He wasn’t used to being on the receiving end of such bold teasing, but it felt oddly comforting. “I swear, Marinette, it’s not a plan! I’m not that smooth—though, I guess if you liked it, I could... keep doing it?”

Marinette laughed, her heart swelling with affection for the boy who could go from cocky to endearing in the blink of an eye. "You know, I never thought I’d hear you admit to purring as Adrien. But now that I know, I can’t not think about it." She placed a hand over her heart, feigning an overdramatic swoon. "I’ll never be able to look at you the same way again, Adrien."

Chat Noir groaned dramatically and threw his head back. "No, please don’t make this any worse!"

Marinette only laughed harder, her eyes gleaming with the joy of having finally peeled back all the layers that had kept them apart. “Oh, sweet kitty, you’ve been a walking disaster from the start,” she teased, her voice low and playful.

Chat Noir couldn’t hold back the smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah, well... maybe it’s a disaster you’re willing to deal with, huh? After all, you're quite a disastrous mess yourself!" His eyes softened, full of warmth as he looked at her. "Maybe that’s why you haven’t kicked me out yet."

Marinette’s heart skipped a beat as she met his gaze. "Maybe," she whispered, her voice quieter now, full of something deeper than teasing.

As their playful banter continued, neither of them seemed to notice how close their faces had gotten until the space between them felt almost electric. The teasing had settled into a kind of quiet warmth, and each word that passed between them only seemed to draw them closer. Their gazes flickered from each other’s eyes to the small space between their lips, then back again.

Marinette’s breath hitched slightly, and she could feel her heart racing in her chest. The teasing, the laughter, the comfort—it was all so much, but now there was this undeniable pull between them. Why had they never noticed it before? How had they gone all this time, dancing around each other like this, without realizing how close they really were?

Chat Noir could feel the tension, too. His heart was racing. His eyes flickered down to her lips and then back up to her eyes. He felt a warmth spreading through his chest, something he couldn’t quite describe, but it was pulling him in. His mind was clouded with the same thoughts—this is Marinette. This is Ladybug. She’s right here, so close, and yet so far. Could this actually be real?

The distance between them had almost vanished completely. Neither of them was willing to back away now. It wasn’t fear, or doubt—it was want, something they’d both tried so hard to ignore for so long.

Marinette took a small, hesitant step forward, the motion almost instinctual. Her lips parted slightly, and she could feel her pulse quicken.

This is it, she thought. This is the moment.

Chat Noir, still flustered but equally determined, leaned in just the tiniest bit. His voice was low, softer now, full of sincerity. "Marinette... I—" But his words trailed off as he found himself captivated by her presence, by the way her eyes shimmered, how close she was to him, and the undeniable tension that wrapped around them like a blanket.

Marinette’s breath caught in her throat, her voice barely above a whisper. "I... I think I’ve wanted this longer than I realized." She could barely keep her words straight. The moment felt too perfect, too vulnerable to put into words.

They were close now. So close.

Chat Noir’s hand, which had been nervously hovering near her waist, slowly reached out to brush a strand of hair from her face. His fingertips lingered there for a second, sending a jolt of warmth through Marinette’s body. And without thinking, his other hand gently cupped her cheek.

Marinette leaned into the touch, her own hand instinctively reaching up to rest on his chest, her fingers brushing the fabric of his suit. She could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, matching her own.

They were both breathing a little faster now. Their faces were so close, and it was almost too much to bear, but neither of them could bring themselves to back away.

The world outside seemed to fade into nothing, leaving only the two of them in this suspended moment of uncertainty and hope. Neither of them was willing to pull away. They were on the edge of something that felt terrifying and exhilarating all at once.

Just as the air around them seemed to crackle with anticipation, Marinette whispered softly, almost shyly, “Are you... sure about this?”

Chat Noir’s lips curled into a small, tender smile, his thumb brushing over her cheek. “I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life,” he replied, his voice barely above a breath.

With that, there was no more hesitation. Neither of them needed words anymore. It was instinct. It was trust. It was everything they had been through together, through the battles, the moments of vulnerability, and the quiet connections they shared.

Then, finally, their lips met in a soft, hesitant kiss.

For a brief moment, everything stopped—the world, the thoughts, the doubts. It was just them, their hearts beating in sync, everything falling into place like it was always meant to be.

As they pulled away, both breathless and still flushed, they smiled at each other—genuinely, happily.

"I guess we’ve been doing this the hard way all along," Marinette said, a small laugh escaping her lips.

Chat Noir chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair from her face again. "Yeah, but it was totally worth it." His green eyes sparkled, his usual cocky grin now softened by something warmer, more real.

Marinette’s heart swelled as she gazed up at him. "We still have a lot to figure out, don’t we?"

He nodded, his expression turning serious for a moment. "We’ll figure it out, I'm sure. whatever comes next."

As they stood there, surrounded by the unspoken promise of something new and uncharted, Marinette knew deep down that everything had just changed. And for the first time in a long time, she wasn’t afraid of what was to come.
Because now, she didn’t have to choose between Adrien and Chat Noir. She had both.

Marinette sighed happily, resting her head against Chat Noir's chest for a moment, the warmth and comfort of their newfound closeness still settling in her heart. It felt like a weight had been lifted, and yet, there was still something she needed to do, something that had been weighing on her mind since the other day.

Her expression shifted slightly, a soft frown pulling at her lips. She took a deep breath, her fingers still entwined with his as she pulled back slightly to look up at him. "I still need to apologize to Alya and Nino," she murmured, a small tinge of guilt creeping into her voice. "I was so angry, and I shouldn't have snapped at them like that. They didn't deserve that."

Chat Noir’s eyes softened with understanding, his hand gently caressing the side of her face. "Marinette, you were upset. You had every right to be. But I get it. You don’t like hurting your friends." He paused, his eyes locking with hers, full of warmth and compassion. "And I think they’ll understand. They know how much you care about them."

She nodded slowly, but the thought of seeing Alya and Nino again, after everything that had happened, made her feel a little uneasy. "I just don't want them to think I don't care about them," she added quietly, looking down at the floor for a brief moment before meeting his gaze again. "It wasn’t about them... It was just everything building up. But still, I feel bad for how I acted."

Chat Noir smiled softly, his thumb brushing across her knuckles reassuringly. "Hey, we're in this together now. I'll go with you. You’re not alone in this." His eyes sparkled with a playful glint, though there was sincerity behind it. "Plus, it might be fun to see how they react when Chat Noir walks in with you, huh?"

Marinette couldn’t help but chuckle at his mischievous tone, the thought of him accompanying her to see Alya and Nino making the situation feel a little lighter. "You’re right... they’ll probably faint or something."

"Exactly," Chat Noir said with a wink, his grin widening. "It’ll be entertaining. And hey, after everything that happened, I think we could all use a little laughter, don’t you think?"

Marinette smiled, feeling a little more at ease with the idea. "Alright, let’s do it. I can’t avoid them forever, and I really do need to apologize." She squeezed his hand tightly. "Thank you, Chat Noir... for everything."

He gave her a reassuring nod. "Always, Marinette." His voice was warm and genuine, and for a moment, it felt like there was nothing they couldn't handle together.

Taking a deep breath, Marinette straightened up. "Let’s go then."

The two of them made their way out. Chat Noir walked beside her, his presence a comforting shield as they made their way toward Alya and Nino’s apartment. Marinette's nerves were still there, but they felt a little more manageable now that she had him by her side.

As they reached the building and rang the doorbell, Marinette felt a flutter of anticipation in her chest. She just hoped that Alya and Nino would understand, and that they’d be able to move past the tension from the other day. And if not, at least she still had Chat Noir, Adrien, by her side.

The door swung open, and there stood Alya and Nino, their expressions a mixture of surprise and concern. They hadn’t expected to see Marinette after her sudden disappearance from school, especially after the outburst she’d had the other day. They had both been worried, wondering if they had messed up too badly to ever make things right again. But now, here she was, standing at their doorstep—looking as if she had been through a lot herself. And to their even greater surprise, Chat Noir was standing right beside her.

Alya’s eyes went wide, her jaw dropping for a moment as she glanced between Marinette and Chat Noir, trying to process what she was seeing. Nino stood beside her, blinking in shock. "Wait, wait, what?" Nino finally managed to say, pointing between Marinette and Chat Noir. "What’s going on here?"

Marinette took a deep breath, letting the weight of the situation sink in for a moment before stepping forward slightly. "Alya, Nino, I... I just wanted to come over and apologize." Her voice was softer than usual, but there was sincerity in it, and the warmth in her eyes was clear. "I’ve been feeling terrible about how I acted the other day. I shouldn’t have snapped at you both like that. You’re my best friends, and you didn’t deserve that."

Alya and Nino exchanged looks, the tension from earlier still hanging in the air. But there was something different about Marinette today. She seemed calmer, more at peace with herself. Alya took a small step forward, her expression softening. "Marinette... we didn’t mean to upset you. You know that, right?" she said gently. "We never wanted to make you feel bad."

Marinette nodded, her guilt still lingering but easing as she listened to Alya. "I know," she replied, her voice thick with emotion. "I just... I panicked. It wasn’t about you two, it was about everything happening at once. And I shouldn’t have let my frustration out on you like that. I’m sorry."

Alya smiled warmly, taking a step closer to her. "We understand, Marinette. We know you were just having a rough time. But I’m glad you’re here now."
Her gaze flickered toward Chat Noir, who was standing quietly beside Marinette, an unreadable expression on his face. "And it looks like you and Chat Noir... you two have made up, huh?"

Marinette blushed, but the corners of her lips curled into a shy smile. "Yeah, we have. Things have been a little... complicated, but we’re okay now."

Nino stepped forward too, raising an eyebrow at Chat Noir. "Well, I’m glad you two worked things out," he said with a grin, though there was still a hint of disbelief in his voice. "But... I gotta admit, seeing Chat Noir just casually standing here with us is kinda... surreal." He chuckled nervously. "I mean, this is the Chat Noir we’ve been dying to meet for months, and now he’s standing here like it’s no big deal!"

Chat Noir gave a small shrug, a playful smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Well, I guess I’m just a regular guy, right?" His eyes sparkled with mischief.
"And I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know you both through Marinette." He gave a slight bow, his usual playful energy returning as he continued, "So, nice to officially meet you."

Alya laughed, shaking her head in disbelief. "This is seriously crazy. You’re the superhero everyone talks about, and here you are in our living room. But I’m glad you’re here too, Chat Noir. I’m just... glad everything is okay between you two." She looked at Marinette with a knowing smile. "You’re both good for each other, I can tell."

Marinette’s face flushed, and she glanced at Chat Noir, who gave her an affectionate smile in return. "Thank you, Alya," Marinette said, her voice a little softer now. "And I promise I won’t snap at you again. I just... I needed time to sort things out."

Nino smiled and put a hand on her shoulder. "We get it, Marinette. We’re just glad you’re okay now. And if you ever need space again, we’ll understand."

The three of them stood there for a moment, the weight of the tension from earlier lifting. It was a quiet moment, but a comforting one.

"Thanks, guys," Marinette said, her voice steady. "For being understanding. I really appreciate it."

Alya stepped forward to give her a hug, and Nino joined in as well, enveloping Marinette in a group hug. Even Chat Noir leaned in for a quick playful embrace.

"I think this calls for a celebration," Alya said after pulling back, her smile bright. "How about we all go get some crepes? On me, of course."

Marinette laughed, feeling a weight lifted off her shoulders. "Sounds perfect."

They made their way out. Alya and Nino exchanged another glance, their confusion growing as they watched Marinette and Chat Noir stroll side by side, hand in hand, with amused smiles on their faces. They were clearly in their own world, gazing at each other with something deeper than friendship, a connection that was impossible to ignore.

"Do you think... they...?" Nino whispered, his voice almost inaudible.

"Seems like it," she whispered back, her gaze darting between the two. "But what about Adrien? Marinette was so in love with him... that couldn't have suddenly stopped, right?"

Alya's words trailed off as she watched Chat Noir laugh at something Marinette said, and Marinette laughed in return. It was a playful, comfortable dynamic, one that seemed to come from years of familiarity. But still, Alya couldn't help the question hanging in the back of her mind.
"And Chat Noir..." she murmured, looking over at Nino. "Wasn't he supposed to be like Ladybug's soulmate or something? He's always chasing after her, flirting with her during akuma battles..."

Before Nino could respond, a soft chuckle broke through their conversation, and both of them froze. They turned toward Marinette and Chat Noir, who had clearly heard every word.
"Oh, I'm still very much in love with Adrien, no need to worry," Marinette said with a sly grin, squeezing Chat Noir's hand a little tighter. Her voice was teasing, but there was a warmth to it that made the statement feel genuine.

"And my little Bugaboo is still very much the holder of my heart," Chat Noir added with a dramatic flair, bowing slightly as he winked at them.

Alya and Nino’s confusion deepened as they exchanged looks. "Wait, what?" Alya whispered, her eyes wide. "So… you're both in love with someone else?"

Chat Noir chuckled, leaning down to whisper something in Marinette's ear.

She giggled and shook her head, clearly enjoying the mystery that was unfolding. Alya and Nino were utterly baffled, and for a moment, they could only stare at the pair of them.

"We're definitely not going to give anything away just yet," Marinette teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Nino raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?" he asked, thoroughly confused. "You're both in love with someone else, but you're holding hands and walking together like this... What are we missing here?"

Chat Noir smiled, tapping the side of his nose with a playful glint in his eye. "Oh, you're missing something alright... But the real question is, can you guess what it is?"

Alya leaned in closer to Nino, her face scrunched up in thought. "Okay, I need a moment to process all this... What is going on between you two?"

Marinette and Chat Noir exchanged a knowing glance, both of them clearly enjoying the playful teasing. They weren’t ready to drop the whole truth just yet, letting their friends stew in their confusion a little longer.
"You're just going to have to wait and see," Marinette said with a shrug, her grin mischievous. "But for now, let’s focus on crepes. We’ve got a lot of catching up to do, right?"

Alya couldn’t help but laugh at the situation, even though she was still desperately trying to figure it out. "You're both impossible," she muttered, shaking her head. "But fine, fine. Crepes first, mysteries later. I’ll get to the bottom of this eventually!"

Chat Noir laughed, his mischievous smile not fading as he kept his arm around Marinette’s shoulders. "Oh, we’re definitely worth the mystery, trust me."

Nino let out a long breath, still not fully understanding what was going on but deciding that, for now, he was just going to roll with it. "Alright, alright, but I’m still going to be asking questions," he warned.

Marinette and Chat Noir just exchanged a glance, the warmth in their eyes unmistakable as they continued walking, hand in hand. As they entered the crepe café, the group settled down at a table, and the conversation shifted back to lighter topics.

But Alya and Nino couldn’t shake the feeling that they were only scratching the surface of something much bigger. Whatever was going on between Marinette and Chat Noir—it wasn’t just friendship anymore. And no matter how many hints they got, they were still determined to piece together the full story.
One thing was for sure, though: they had no idea how this was all going to end, but they were sure as heck going to enjoy the ride.

Alya and Nino were practically on the edge of their seats, both of them too curious—and too confused—to focus on anything other than the cryptic exchange unfolding in front of them. Every sentence from Marinette and Chat Noir only seemed to throw more fuel onto the mystery, leaving them both more and more baffled. And as the crepes were devoured, they couldn't help but shoot each other confused glances, hoping to piece it together before the other did.

"I understand why you love Adrien so much," Chat Noir said, his tone lighthearted and playful, clearly stroking his own ego. "I mean, you clearly have a thing for blondes, and he's SUPER handsome and kind too!"

Marinette nodded, surprising them both with how calm and collected she was under Chat Noir's teasing. "And Ladybug, she's just... wow. I can totally see why you're into her," she said, her smirk dancing as she watched Chat Noir's reaction. "A true hero, full of strength, grace, and heart."

This only threw Alya and Nino further into the whirlpool of confusion. They exchanged confused glances, their heads nearly spinning at the back-and-forth between Marinette and Chat Noir. "What is going on?" Alya murmured under her breath, her curiosity practically bubbling over.

Chat Noir stole a glance at them, his smirk widening as he saw how lost they were. "Hmm... Hey, Marinette," he said, his voice laced with mock-seriousness. "Perhaps we should try and set up a date for Adrien and Ladybug. What do you think? They would make a great couple, right?"

Marinette raised an eyebrow, playing along as she leaned in closer to Chat Noir. "Oh, absolutely. I can already imagine the chemistry they’d have... They’re practically made for each other."

Alya blinked rapidly, her mind working overtime, while Nino looked like he was about to short-circuit. "Wait a second," Alya managed to say, trying to hold it together. "You... you two... are seriously talking about setting up Adrien and Ladybug?"

Marinette’s smirk softened slightly, though there was still a hint of mischief in her eyes as she leaned back in her seat. "Oh, don't worry, Alya," she said, her voice dripping with playful sincerity. "Ladybug and Adrien will figure things out on their own, right, Chat Noir?"

Chat Noir gave her a sly grin, his eyes twinkling as he leaned back as well. "Of course. I’m sure it’ll all work out in the end." He paused before adding with a wink, "I just hope I don’t have to deal with anyone stealing Ladybug’s heart anytime soon."

Alya’s mind was racing, and she shot a questioning look at Nino, who could only stare at them in disbelief. "Okay, wait, we need to get something straight here," Nino said, his voice a bit louder now. "You two are playing with us, aren’t you?"

Marinette raised an eyebrow, her expression innocent but playful. "What do you mean, Nino?" she asked, feigning confusion.

"You know exactly what we mean," Alya jumped in, shaking her head. "This back-and-forth between Adrien and Ladybug is starting to feel like... you're both way too comfortable with these names. It's like you two are talking about them as if... you know them, but really, you know them. You’re not fooling anyone!"

Chat Noir bit his lip to hold in a laugh but couldn't help himself. "You’re giving us far too much credit, Alya. You really think we’re that clever?" He was teasing, but his words only deepened the mystery further.

Alya's mind was racing as she shifted in her seat, glancing at Nino, who was just as lost as she was. Marinette, however, remained calm and composed, her eyes flickering between her friends and Chat Noir with a look of playful patience.
"And what if we do know each other in more ways than you think?" Marinette said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Alya blinked, completely thrown off. She was trying to connect the dots—trying to make sense of everything—but the puzzle pieces weren't fitting together. "Wait... are you saying you actually know each other? Like... really know each other?"

Marinette chuckled lightly. "Well, that depends on what you mean by 'really know'..."

At that moment, the teasing tension in the air was palpable. Nino and Alya looked at each other, still no closer to understanding what was going on between Marinette and Chat Noir. Marinette's calm and Chat Noir's playful antics only added more confusion to the situation.

Finally, Alya leaned back in her seat, exasperated but also somehow entertained by the game Marinette and Chat Noir were playing. "Okay, I’m officially lost," she said, throwing her hands up. "You're not telling us anything, and I'm about to burst from curiosity here."

Chat Noir grinned widely at her, clearly enjoying the suspense. "Oh, Alya," he said, chuckling, "you'll figure it out eventually. But for now, just enjoy the crepes. After all, you can't rush a good mystery."

Nino let out a long sigh, still trying to make sense of everything. "Well, whatever it is, I have a feeling we're about to get some answers... eventually."

Alya nodded, her eyes narrowing playfully. "You two are seriously making us work for this one. Fine. We’ll wait. But don’t think we’ve forgotten about this."

Marinette smiled sweetly, her hand still intertwined with Chat Noir’s. "Of course not. Patience is a virtue, after all."

And just like that, they continued to enjoy their crepes, the teasing and mystery hanging in the air like a promise, leaving Alya and Nino to stew in their confusion just a little bit longer.

As the group made their way to the park after finishing the crepes, Alya and Nino were still buzzing with questions, their minds reeling from the playful hints and teasing comments. The tension was finally starting to feel like it was building up to something. The air was thick with suspense, and their curiosity was near unbearable. They had come to accept that there was something big about to unfold, but they weren’t sure when or how it would finally drop.

As they sat down on a bench beneath the shade of a tree, Marinette and Chat Noir exchanged a quiet glance, sharing a moment of silent understanding. Their playful front had been fun, but it was time for the truth. Time to reveal everything.

Alya couldn’t stand the suspense any longer. "Okay, enough with the games!" she said, her voice filled with frustration, but it was clear she was also eager for the answer. "We’ve been dying to know! You two are obviously hiding something, and it’s time we get some real answers!"

Nino nodded, his expression mirroring Alya’s. "You can’t keep us in the dark forever. Whatever it is, we’re ready to know."

Marinette took a deep breath, her cheeks flushed slightly as she glanced at Chat Noir. He flashed her a reassuring smile before turning back to their friends. "Alright," she said softly, her voice steady but laced with a mix of nervousness and excitement. "I think it’s time you both knew."

Alya and Nino leaned forward in anticipation, their eyes wide with curiosity.
Marinette hesitated for a moment longer, then nodded, her hand brushing against Chat Noir’s, giving him a comforting squeeze. "I’m Ladybug," she finally said, the words feeling so surreal yet freeing to say out loud.

The moment the words left her mouth, Alya and Nino stared at her, completely speechless. They blinked in shock, looking from Marinette to Chat Noir and back again, as if they were expecting some kind of punchline. But there was none. This wasn’t a joke. Marinette was Ladybug. It was real.

Alya’s jaw dropped, her eyes darting between the two of them as if trying to make sense of everything. "Wait, wait, wait—so you’re Ladybug?" she said, voice high with disbelief.
"And Chat Noir is—"

"Adrien," Chat Noir finished for her, flashing his signature smirk with a dramatic flair. "I’m Adrien. And this time, I’m not hiding behind a mask anymore."

Alya and Nino stared at him in complete shock, processing the revelation. Adrien Agreste. Chat Noir. The same person. It was like their world had just turned upside down.

Alya finally found her voice, her mind racing to catch up with the whirlwind of information. "But... you two have been keeping this secret from each other too? For real? All this time, you were both... right there?" Her hands flew up in frustration, trying to comprehend the magnitude of it all. "How did you even—"

"We didn’t know," Marinette interrupted gently. "We kept our identities a secret from everyone, including each other. And up until today, neither of us had any clue. But we trust you both. You’ve always had our backs."

Chat Noir nodded in agreement, his tone serious now. "This isn’t just some game to us. Hawk Moth is still out there, and we can’t afford to let our identities slip. We’ve been playing this balancing act for so long, keeping our secret from everyone—including the ones we care about most."

Nino ran a hand through his hair, still trying to absorb the full weight of the revelation. "But... you trust us, right?" he asked, his voice a little uncertain but hopeful. "You’re telling us all of this because you believe we can keep your secret?"

Marinette and Chat Noir exchanged a brief glance before nodding in unison. "Yes," Marinette said softly. "We trust you both. We just need you to promise that this stays between us. Hawk Moth can’t know. Our identities, our connection—it’s too dangerous if it gets out."

Alya was silent for a moment, processing everything. She looked between Marinette, Chat Noir, and Nino, her eyes serious now.
"You have our word," she said, her voice firm with conviction. "We won’t tell anyone. Your secret is safe with us. And... wow, this is just... so much. But I’m glad you’re letting us in."

Nino nodded, his face breaking into a grin. "Yeah, same here. This is crazy, but we’ve got your backs, for sure."

Chat Noir smiled, his eyes lighting up with gratitude. "Thank you both," he said softly, genuinely touched by their trust.

Marinette felt a wave of relief wash over her. Finally, she didn’t have to keep this secret alone. Alya and Nino were on their side, and now, things didn’t feel quite as heavy as they had before.
"Thank you," Marinette said, her voice soft but full of sincerity. "It means a lot to us, more than you know."

The moment hung in the air for a while as they all processed the new dynamics of their relationships. There were still so many things to figure out, but for now, they were united by trust and the shared understanding that their identities were safe.

Alya, finally snapping out of her stunned silence, smiled at Marinette and Chat Noir. "Well, I guess there’s nothing more to say than: long live Ladybug and Chat Noir! You two make a pretty awesome team."

Chat Noir laughed, the tension easing. "We’ve been saying that for months."

The group sat in the park, the weight of the secret finally lifted, and the air was filled with the hum of excited chatter. But as the conversation simmered down, Alya and Nino exchanged a knowing glance, the wheels in their minds turning. There was still one very pressing question that needed answering.
Alya couldn’t resist. She leaned forward, her eyes narrowing mischievously as she looked between Marinette and Chat Noir, a grin tugging at the corners of her lips. “So,” she said slowly, drawing out the word, “does this mean you two are... a couple now?”

The question hung in the air, and Marinette’s face instantly turned bright red.

Chat Noir’s ears flattened, and he glanced over at Marinette, his cheeks just as flushed. The two of them exchanged a nervous glance before both of them awkwardly looked away, as if they couldn’t quite meet the gaze of their friends.

"W-well…" Marinette stuttered, her voice cracking a little as she tried to find the words. "I mean, we might have… um…" She glanced over at Chat Noir for some kind of support, but he was just as flustered as she was, rubbing the back of his neck in embarrassment.

"Uh, yeah, we might’ve… kissed a little bit?" Chat Noir muttered, his voice light but nervous, the cocky smirk usually on his face nowhere to be found. Instead, his green eyes were wide and uncertain, his usual playful attitude now replaced with an adorable vulnerability.

Alya’s eyes widened. "Wait, kissed?" she repeated, her voice incredulous. “As in, you two kissed? Like, together kissed?”

Marinette quickly shot a look at Chat Noir, her face nearly matching the color of her Ladybug suit as she stumbled over her words. "It wasn’t... I mean, it wasn’t really planned! It just… happened! We were just, you know, talking and—and then we got caught up in the moment, and—"

Chat Noir, now equally embarrassed, stepped in to finish the thought. "Yeah, we were kinda just... talking," he said with a nervous laugh. "And, uh, one thing led to another..." He trailed off, clearly not sure how to explain it without making things more awkward.

Nino, who had been quietly watching their interaction, suddenly burst into a wide grin, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “Oh man,” he said, leaning back in his seat, “you two are so cute. I had no idea you were this close. I mean, we’ve seen the way you two act around each other, but this? This is something else.”

Alya nodded, her lips curling into a teasing smile. “You two are definitely a couple now, right? Or is it just the whole ‘we’re superhero partners, so we kiss’ thing?”

Marinette and Chat Noir exchanged another glance, their nervousness slowly giving way to a more comfortable warmth. It was true, despite all the confusion and chaos leading up to this moment, they had crossed that line, and it felt right. They had been through so much together, and that kiss had felt like a natural progression.

“Yeah,” Chat Noir said, his voice more certain now, his hand reaching out to gently take Marinette’s. “I think it’s safe to say we’re a couple now.”

Marinette smiled shyly, but there was a certain softness in her eyes as she nodded in agreement. “Yeah… I think so.”

Alya and Nino exchanged glances, their grins growing wider. “Well, I have to admit, I didn’t see this coming,” Alya said, her voice full of amusement. “But I’m so happy for you guys. I knew something was going on between you two, but this is just—wow."

Nino chuckled and nudged Alya. “Can’t wait to see how this whole thing plays out.”

Marinette laughed, the tension that had been building up dissipating as she relaxed in Chat Noir’s presence. She squeezed his hand softly, feeling a sense of comfort she hadn’t even realized she’d been missing. "Well, we’ve got a lot to figure out," she said with a soft smile, “but I think... we can do it together. As a team."

Chat Noir grinned, his usual confidence returning as he leaned in toward her slightly. "As a team," he agreed, his voice steady, his eyes filled with warmth.

The four of them stayed there in the park for a little while longer, talking and laughing. Alya and Nino were both still trying to process everything, but the two of them were genuinely happy for Marinette and Adrien. Despite the initial shock, they could see how well the two of them fit together. They were a great team, both as superheroes and as a couple.