The day has finally arrived! The years of education and growing up has finally come to an end…well, almost. Who would have ever thought that four years of lycée would rush by so quickly? For most, it felt as if this moment would never come. It wasn't long since they were all a collége student.

It's only one time that you ever get the chance to graduate from high school.

And the best part, taking this chapter of your life and getting to spend and celebrate the moment with your friends.

For Marinette, she couldn't be happier and wait for the day she leaves for the University de Miraculous to begin her studies to be a fashion designer. What made the excitement more thrilling to going to university is the ability to enjoy university with a majority of her classmates, more so with her closest friends, Alya, Nino, and Adrien.

With university soon arriving, the first step is to survive graduation and the massive amount of visiting family members.

Up in her attic bedroom, standing across her room by her window; Marinette stands in front of her standing mirror and gazes over her attire, memorizing herself in her handmade sapphire dress, cutting off at the knees, and her raven blue hair pulled up to a bun.

Establishing that she's dressed in the proper graduation attire, enforced by the school, Marinette reaches over for the clothing that hung over one of her desk chairs. Unfolding it, she unzips the protective bag and pulls out the black fabric, tossing it over her sapphire dress.

Tossing the graduation gown over her dress, Marinette grabs the cap lying on her chaise and places it on her head, reaching for the two hair pins on her chaise and placing them in her hair pinning the cap in place from moving and falling.

Looking back in the mirror, Marinette looks at herself with her full graduation attire on; standing proud as she lives the excitement for the day. A smile forms on her face as the new chapter of her life is soon to begin. For now, she can't wait to meet up with her friends and enjoy this special day.

"Marinette! Are you done sweetheart?!"

Marinette snaps out of her reverie when she hears her mother yelling down below from the living space.

"Yes, mama! I'm coming down now!" She shouted in reply.

Taking another quick glance into the mirror, Marinette gives a nod of approval and smiled, pleased with her finished attire and exits her room, rushing down the stairs to her awaiting family members.

Reaching the living space, she becomes bombarded with family members as they coo and complement her handmade dress. Her family both from France and China hover in the small home to share in this special celebration, congratulating her for making it this far and reaching her dreams.

She's always enjoyed having her family by her side, even more when it comes to the family she barely gets to see as often. Family is important. That's what she's been taught growing up, as well as love. She's grateful that a majority of her family made the trip to travel to see her on her graduation day.

"Alright, alright everyone; let's get some pictures taken with the family before you head off to meet up for the ceremony. Also, I want some pictures of you in your gown."

Knowing she had a few moments to spare, Marinette took turns with different family members as her mother took pictures. Once she finished with all the visitors, her grandmother ushered Sabine and Tom over to their daughter so they could capture a picture of the happy family.

With bright smiles, the picture was taken of the three. Tom, as the big man that he was, stood in the back with Sabine and Marinette in front and near each of his sides, his arms holding them close.

Grabbing the camera to check the photo, Sabine gave an approving smile, pleased with all the photos. She looks over to her daughter, "Alright, Marinette. I think you should head off now and meet up with your class and teachers. We'll be waiting for you at the ceremony."

Giving her daughter a smile, Sabine places a kiss on her cheek and gives her hug. Moving over to her father and getting the same affections, Marinette quickly moves around the entire family with quick hugs and kisses, shouting a quick 'I love you' to everyone and sprints out of her home towards the school.

Arriving at the school, Marinette runs up the stoned steps making her way towards the gym as the designated gathering quarters for all the graduates until the ceremony begins.

Seeing the sea of seniors, Marinette glances across the heads of students in search for her friends. Hoping to at least snatch a glimpse of a certain brunette.

"Marinette!"

Knowing that familiar voice anywhere, Marinette looks over to her right to see Alya waving her down behind a group of students. With a pleased grin, she makes way through the crowd towards Alya.

"Hey girl!"

"Hey Alya!"

Rushing over and greeting, both embrace one another in a hug of pure excitement. Giddiness consuming their entire body.

"Can you believe we're finally graduating?!" Exclaimed Alya.

"I know right. I honestly can't wait until we start university. It's going to be amazing!" Shouted Marinette, glee feeling her voice.

"You got that right!" A deeper voice shouting originating from beside them.

Turning their attention over, the girls see Nino zigzagging his way to their location.

Coming upon them, Nino wraps each girl in a hug and leans in, rotating his head towards Alya to leave a kiss against her cheek. "Looking good, babe."

Seeing Alya made Nino's heart jump. She really looked good for their special night. Instead of her common hair style, her hair strands where stylized in curls with a beautiful shade of make-up and eye liner. The sight in general making Nino soar and breathless.

"Thanks, Nino." Alya returns, pleased with the noticed look from Nino. She gives Nino a kiss in return, but on the welcoming area of his lips than the cheek.

With the couple in the midst of their own little world, Marinette decides to look around for any view of her blond friend and crush.

Seeing no familiar blond, she turns to Nino to ask if he knew any whereabouts of Adrien.

"Hey, Nino, where's Adrien?"

Nino looks away from Alya and quickly hovers his view through the crowded gym. "He should be here. He's probably lost with the sea of students."

All three take the moment to glance around the gym filled of students in search for their fourth member of their little group.

Moving around the students, Adrien pushes himself towards the safety of the gymnasium walls. Taking a breather from the congested filled room, Adrien searches for any form of his three friends. Yes, he made others like his fellow classmates, but his major group revolved around, Nino, Alya, and Marinette.

His goal was to meet up with them before the ceremony started. Though his entire motive was to find Marinette.

Ever since he started public school, his three friends were the best thing he maintained. The greatest thing was meeting Marinette. Although they had their rocking moment in the beginning four years ago, they became the best of friends. He couldn't help but gain a crush and love for the girl. The only person who knew of his crush was Nino, the only one he felt safe in telling. Though, Nino constantly encouraged him to confess to Marinette about his feelings to her, but he feared in ruining what they have. He doesn't know why Nino was always so persistent but he shoved away idea whenever the attempts arose.

Looking around, green eyes spot a familiar raven hair styled in a bun towards the center of the gym. With toothy grin, Adrien pushes away from the wall and ducks behind students as he slithers his way towards Marinette, assuming that Nino and Alya must be there as well.

From behind, Marinette comes into view as he sneaks up closely. Raising his hands up, Adrien stands behind her as he covers her eyes with his large hands. Leaning in closely, he calls into her ear.

In her position, Marinette stiffens when she saw hands cover her eyes and a body pressed from behind. A voice calling to her in her ear, their breath warm against her skin as it shoots a small shiver down her spine.

"Guess who?"

She knows that voice from anywhere. From when he first arrived in public school and grew into the young man she so happily had the pleasure to watch. Marinette could pick that deeper voice from any crowded space. A smile forms on her lips as a giggle escapes in between, "Adrien!"

Chuckling, Adrien removes his hands from her face, watching as Marinette spins around and wraps her arms around him greeting him with a hug.

Mid way through their collége year, the same year Adrien started public school, she learned to subdue her stuttering and nervousness around her crush once she learned how much of a nerd and dork he truly was. She realized that he was just another ordinary teen and a more obtainable person than she once believed to be unobtainable. With those insecurities shoved away, she and Adrien became closer, much closer once Nino and Alya began dating.

Having their two friends typically hip to hip, it gave Marinette and Adrien a reason to spend time with one another. Even though Nino and Alya will never know all the fun activities they have done together (concerts, arcades, and movies that their best friends would die to go to), Marinette and Adrien had become their own best of friends.

To some, it's as if they've been friends since childhood and inseparable. Marinette learned to be more confident in herself and Adrien learned to be more carefree around his friends and less about being the perfect son for his father and his company.

Gladly hugging Marinette in return, Adrien replies, "Hey, Mari!"

Embracing her felt comforting to him. Adrien would do anything to be able to remain in her arms. He may not have the will power to confess to her now, but when he does, he'll tell her how she feels like home. A home filled with warmth and affection. He wants more than anything to be more than just friends. Hopefully she'll return his affections when the moment rises.

Releasing from their hug, Adrien looks over to see Nino and Alya, greeting them, quickly changing in excitement. "Can you believe we're finally graduating? I never thought this day would come!"

"I know, dude. I can't wait until we begin university. We're going to have one hell of a good time." Nino stated with the same excitement.

"Honestly, I'm more excited to finally escape my father. I'm looking forward to living on campus and getting the chance to taste freedom."

"Oh hell yea! Your father actually agreed to let you leave the house?" Asked Nino, still disbelieving Adrien's father would release his iron grip of controlling his son's life.

"No, not really." Adrien replied. "He was completely against the entire idea. Like always, he'd rather have me stay in that house because it was safer. Though, I couldn't stay at that lonesome house anymore. I'm eighteen know and he no longer has control over my decisions and life. So I'm going to finally do what I want and live at the dorms so I can be with you three." Adrien offered them a smile.

"Damn! We're going to be roomies for sure now!" Beamed Nino.

Nino offered Adrien his fist in which Adrien gladly raises his own and fist bumps Nino's in excitement and celebration.

"Alright, alright. As much as I am happy for the sunshine child, there's something I want to get done before things get started and hectic." Alya raises up her phone in camera mode. "We need a group graduation photo!" Says Alya excitingly.

With smiles all around, the group of four huddle together. Nino moves to Alya's left side, wrapping his right arm around her waist. Marinette moved to Alya's right side, wrapping her left arm around Alya's shoulders. Lastly, Adrien moved in position and stood at Marinette's right side, throwing his left arm around Marinette's waist.

The stiffness between the contact of Adrien and Marinette only lasted a second. It's not like they aren't use to close contact with each other. Adrien and Marinette always showed friendly contact. Whether it consisted of long hugs, laying side by side on the grass in the park when the group of four or classmates hung out in the park.

But, there was a part of Adrien that desired the contact to mean so much more. Maybe soon. One of these days he'll confess to Mari. For now, he has a graduation and being with friends to focus about right now.

"We need to move closer." Stated Alya.

Moving closer, they squeeze together with bright smiles as Alya snaps a few photos, taking the opportunity to take a few silly photos.

"Awesome!" Shouts Alya as she scans through the photos on her phone. "I'll make sure to send you guys some of the pics."

"ATTENTION STUDENTS!"

The gymnasium descends to silence as the students quit down upon hearing Principal Damocles yelling on top of a metal built stand to gather the student's attention.

"PLEASE GET IN LINE ALPHEBETICALLY BY LAST NAMES LIKE YOU LEARNED AT PRACTICE! THE CEREMONY IS ABOUT TO BEGIN!"

Following the directions of their principal, all the seniors gather into their designated lines and begin walking out of the gymnasium and towards the back of the school where the field lined with chairs for the students and families of the students are seated in the bleachers.

Once all the students took their appropriate seat, the ceremony began.

On the built stage where all teachers were seated, Mr. Damocles stood from his seat as he walked and stood in front of the podium.

"Students. Parents. As principal of this school, it has been another honor to welcome these amazing students to their end of their lycée years and begin their path into university or other paths that they wish to begin. I have had the pleasure to get to know many of these talented students that have come to this school. I will be honest when I say that I will miss every one of you and I'm sure that goes for all our teachers here." All the teachers behind him nod in agreement. "I know all of you are going to do amazing and incredible things in your future and I hope you all find your passion and happiness when it comes forth. We of Francoise-Dupont wish you all great luck to the next chapters of your life."

With Mr. Damocles completing his speech, all the students stood to give a quick applause to their favorite principle. After the applause, a few teachers took to the stage to give a small speech, teachers that included Ms. Bustier and Ms. Mendeleiev.

All the students couldn't help but smile at the heart felt words from the principal and their favorite teachers. They're going to miss them as they leave them behind to move on to bigger better things.

Having the speeches completed, everyone waits with baited breaths as the moment of receiving their diplomas commence. Looking around, students gaze in the audience in search for their families as they wait for the announcements of their names.

From his seat, Adrien glances around for any sight of his father amongst the crowds of families. Taking the moment to search, Adrien couldn't find any view of his father amongst the audience. He very well knew his father most likely wasn't going to make an appearance, but deep down, Adrien bared a small piece of hope that his father cared enough to make his appearance for his only son's graduation.

Still feeling the effects of heartbreak, Adrien dismisses the feelings when he catches the view of Marinette. Adrien looks over to see her attention on him.

Blue eyes full of sadness as they stare into the green eyes of heartbroken love. Marinette couldn't help but give him a sad worried questionable look, but Adrien knew very well what that look was telling, what she was asking. He knew she was asking if his father showed up.

Giving Marinette a small smile, not even attempting to hide the disappointment within, Adrien just shakes his head informing her his father indeed did not show up. Baring a small smile herself, Adrien turns back around as the principal begins calling names for the retrieval of their diplomas.

Leaning back, Marinette keeps a calming exterior but a burning rage flows internally. She couldn't understand how Gabriel Agreste was a no show to his only son's graduation. Marinette knew Gabriel was a cold, serious, controlling, stern father, most likely part of it being from his wife's disappearance. Though it doesn't make it an excuse to not make an appearance to his son's graduation ceremony.

With Adrien's name shortly coming up, Marinette made the quick decision in hopes to cheer her crush up. To show that he doesn't need his father to show that he's loved. Quickly taking a look around her surroundings, Marinette sneaks out her phone from the safety of her breasts as she silently unlocks her phone. Students weren't allowed to have their phones out, but to her, it's worth it if she were to get caught in the end.

Texting furiously, Marinette sends a short text to her parents, hoping that at least one of them will receive the text in time before Adrien makes his way to the stage.

Not a moment later, loud and clear from the speakers, Adrien's name is called as he walks up, following the students before him to retrieve his diploma. What happened next Adrien didn't expect.

As his hands grab his diploma, one of them dropping to shake the principal's hand, Adrien hears his name called out from the audience and looks over.

His eyes widen as he sees Sabine shouting his name and snapping pictures, and calling out how proud she is of her child. Tom shouting how proud he is at the same time matching Sabine's excitement. With Marinette's parents shouting in joy, all of Marinette's family join in. What made the moment even more emotional and memorable for Adrien was when Alya's family, along with Nino's as they stood and cheered for Adrien, shouting similar praises as Sabine on how proud they were of their child.

During the past five years since they all became friends from college, Marinette, Alya, and Nino's family have treated Adrien as their own son. As oblivious as Adrien can be, he never picked up on it, he just assumed it was their kindness from being parents.

Looking out to see his friend's families cheer him on, he didn't know how to respond. That was until he heard his own friends cheering his name. There were so many emotions running through his mind, he never experienced such care, such…love. Looking back at the families in the audience, Adrien gives a few poses for pictures before heading off the stage.

From her seat, Marinette watches Adrien walk back to his seat when he takes a quick glance over at Marinette. She looks at him with a warming and bright smile, offering him a wink when she faces ahead, keeping her gaze from his in hopes to still any blush crawling on her face.

As for Adrien, he didn't know what to think. There was only one thought running along his mind. 'Was that Marinette's doing? Was she the one that got their families to cheer him on?' A blush runs across his face as he sits back down his seat.

Reading off the names, it isn't long before Alya's name is called, her families and friends cheering her name, when soon the list falling to the names with D last names. When Marinette's name is called, she reaches the stage, grabbing her diploma when her family begin shouting and yelling out her name and cheer.

Sabine yelling, "That's my baby! I'm so proud of you!"

Tom following behind, "Yea! That's my little girl!"

Cheers and waving from the massive group of Marinette's family, followed by her friends and their families. She couldn't help but feel a little embarrassed as her face grows red. Keeping her smile, she holds her position for a few more pictures and finally walking off the stage. Taking a relieving breath, Marinette makes it back to her seat as everyone waits for the ceremony to finish.

With the graduation ceremony finally completed, students grab their caps and toss them in the air. With laughter and cheering following close behind, everyone retrieves their caps again and begin searching for friends and family.

Before finding her parents, Marinette rushed in search for Adrien. For her she thought that if his father wouldn't make an effort to spend this special day with his son, then her and her family will take his place. Adrien deserved to have fun on his day just as much as her.

Zigzagging through groups of students and families, she couldn't be more grateful for Adrien's height. Throughout the four years of knowing him, puberty fell upon Adrien very well. He has grown into a tall and fine man, one heck of a Greek sculpture of art if you ask her.

Seeing the tall young man and her favorite golden locks, Marinette shouts, "Adrien!"

Turning around, a wide smile grows on Adrien's lips as he steps into a run towards her. Reaching her half way, Adrien embraces her in a large hug as he twirls her around.

"Marinette you're amazing!"

Their embrace tightens before Adrien sets her down, leaning back to look at her.

"I can't believe you had your family and our friend's families cheer for me. You have no idea how much that means to me. I literally had to force myself not to cry."

Giggling, Marinette gives him a smile with pure sincerity. "I just want you to know that you're always loved, Adrien. We love you, all of us do. Never forget that." Marinette's blue eyes look deep in Adrien's green eyes. The gratitude that's etched in his eyes tells Marinette everything. "I care about you too much and I'm not going to let your father ruin this day for you."

With eyes watering, Adrien envelopes Marinette in another hug, "Thank you, Mari."

He doesn't know what he's done to deserve a friend like her. But he knows he's never going to let her go. He'll find a way to confess to her. Just not now.

Releasing the hug, both wrap an arm around each other as Marinette guides him along as they go in search for her family. He never expected this day to be truly joyful, but being around his friends, being with Marinette and having her family made his graduation day much more meaningful and full of care and love that he plans to hold onto for life.

Walking through the maze of graduates, families, and friends; Marinette and Adrien locate her family near the bleachers, talking amongst each other and a few other families.

"Mama! Papa!"

Waving them down, her family all glance over to see Marinette and Adrien making their way towards the group, all shouting in excitement.

"Marinette!"

All Marinette can hear is her name along with congratulations. Moving to the front, Sabine rushes over and embraces her daughter, proud and elated of her daughter's accomplishments.

"I'm so proud of you, sweetheart!"

"Oh, my little girl."

Tom comes from behind Sabine and envelopes his daughter in a fatherly hug, congratulating her and placing a kiss on her forehead.

Looking to her left, Sabine moves her attention towards Adrien. She moves forward and embraces him in a motherly hug. Startled and slightly shocked at first, Adrien relaxes and returns Sabine's hug.

"Oh, sweetheart. We're so proud of you! You made this mama truly happy." Says Sabine.

Adrien feels touched, he can't remember the last time he had an embrace as well as caring words, full sincerity, warmth, and full of love. He does all he can to hold back the tears threatening to leak from his eyes.

Letting go, Sabine releases Adrien only to be replaced by her husband, Tom, as he comes up and bear hugs Adrien in his arms. For Adrien, he's not surprised. A man Tom's size, he is amazed by the power that comes along from his hugs.

"Congratulations, son!" exclaimed Tom.

'Son. Oh how I wish that could be right now. I'd take being part of your family in a heartbeat.' Those thoughts always run through Adrien's mind when he witnesses the love and care that the Dupain-Cheng's shower him with.

Tom releases the young man as Adrien takes a second to rebalance himself from the massive hug. Recollecting himself, Adrien thanks Marinette's parents.

"Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Dupain-Cheng. You have no idea how much that meant to me up there. You and the others. It made tonight that much better."

Sabine and Tom smile at Adrien. They were very aware of his home life and the lack of love that's shown to the young man. The two always had Marinette invite Adrien over as much as possible as well as encourage him to stay for dinner whenever he could. Sabine and Tom wanted to give as much love to Adrien as they could. And it's not hard to see that Adrien has feelings for their daughter. They hear enough of their daughter talk about her love for him. Hopefully for them, it won't be long before they can count Adrien as their son-in-law. Who are they kidding, they already do in their minds.

Sabine replies, "You're welcome dear. We count you as our family. And please, call us Sabine and Tom. There's no need for last names."

Returning their gestures, Adrien gives them one of his genuine smiles, not a fake model smile.

"Now, since the graduation ceremony is over, I hope you'll be joining us for dinner." Asked Sabine.

"Oh." Adrien becomes stunned. "I-I mean thank you, but I don't want to intrude on you and your family on this day."

"Nonsense, Adrien. Like I said, you are part of this family. We would love for you to join us."

Glancing over to Marinette, Adrien can see the hopefulness in her smile and eyes, the blue orbs shining brightly. With a warm smile, Adrien agrees to the invitation. "I'd love to join you."

Marinette, Sabine, and Tom jumped in glee as they called over the rest of the Dupain and Cheng families to meet Adrien. With quick greetings, Tom and Sabine lead the family back to the Dupain-Cheng residence to celebrate a feast of a graduation dinner. Marinette and Adrien following last with arms embraced.

All gathered and seated within the kitchen and living space area of the home, all sit and eat, talking amongst each other when Tom stands and gathers everyone's attention.

"If I can gather all of your attention, please." Everyone halt on their talking and turn over to look at Tom. "I'd like to thank you all for gathering here today to celebrate our little Marinette on this special day and her next steps on her way to adult hood where she begins her path into fashion." The family shout in happiness as some clap hands, all looking and smiling at Marinette. "I also what to say congratulations to our son, Adrien. It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know you and how proud we are of your successes. Know you are always welcomed here in the Dupain-Cheng home and family." A blush forms along Adrien's face. He's never felt important like this. It was definitely different from being acknowledged due to his fame as a model. This felt nice and welcoming. "From all of us, we wish you two kids the best of luck on your next and new adventure." Finished Tom. Another round of applause and cheering ring through the Dupain-Cheng home. This is what home felt like.

After a full filled hardy celebratory dinner, it was time to get ready for the graduation party that was being held at the Le Grand Paris Hotel.

Adrien told Marinette that he was going to head home to change into a set of comfortable clothing and would return to the bakery so they could walk to the hotel together.

Rushing back to the mansion, Adrien changed into a pair of a nice dark blue jeans, a green t-shirt, and a black jacket that he threw over, zipping the zipper half way. Checking to make sure he had his phone, wallet, and keys, Adrien hopped in his car and drove his way back to Marinette's home.

Arriving back at the bakery, Adrien parked the car in front of the building and walked to the side and up the stairs to the first floor of the home. Knocking on the door, Adrien was let in and greeted by the large family again as he waited for Marinette to come down stairs.

Hearing footsteps descending the stairs, Adrien looked up to see Marinette reaching the bottom and looking over to him. She was dressed in a pair of faded blue shorts, a white t-shirt, and a red jacket zipped half way up. She was beautiful, but what took Adrien's breath away was seeing Marinette's hair down. Out of the entire time he's known her he's never seen her hair down, only ever in her pigtails or a bun. During the past year and a half, it's been in bun, but seeing her hair down was even more attractive. He should see if he can convince her to leave her hair down more often.

"Wow. I've never seen you with your hair down. Y-you look amazing." Stated Adrien nervously, a light blush forming on his cheeks.

Blushing herself, Marinette gives him a shy smile, thanking him for the compliment, "Thank you, Adrien. You look good yourself. Hopefully I'll get to see more of this laid back look during university."

From behind, Sabine walks up to the two. "Let's get a quick picture of you two."

Adrien quickly moves to Marinette's side, both wrapping an arm around each other's waist and smile to the camera, Sabine taking a few pics.

"Alright you two, you better head off. Have fun and be safe." Sabine looks at Adrien. "Adrien, if you feel too tired after the party, you can stay the night here. Marinette has her chaise that you can sleep on. We can't have you falling asleep behind the wheel."

"Thank you, Sabine."

"Now go you two. I'm sure your friends are waiting."

Taking that as an order, Marinette and Adrien wave goodbye to her family and exit through the front doors and down the stairs towards the front of the building where his car is parked.

Being the gentleman that he is, Adrien moves to the passenger door and opens it for Marinette. Giving him an eye roll, Marinette thanks Adrien and slides into the passenger's seat. Closing the door once she was safety inside, Adrien walked around and made his way into the driver's seat. Turing the car on, Adrien drove their way towards the Le Grand Paris.

Arriving at the hotel, Adrien parked the car in a nearby parking lot. Both getting out of the car, Adrien and Marinette walked up to the hotel where Nino and Alya stood waiting by the front.

Seeing their two friends, Alya and Nino run up to the two and give one another hugs.

"Alright, dudes! Let's get this night started!" Shouted Nino.

Walking up to the hotel's entrance, the four enter inside and follow the other seniors into the ball room where the grad party is taking place.

Shuffling through the crowds of students, the four manage to find their fellow classmates all gather around the dance floor. As they walk forward, some of them look over to see the four approaching. Alix being the first one to greet them.

"Hey guys!" yelled Alix, trying to be heard over the loud music.

Everyone greets and welcome each other as all part take in the dancing and music.

"So, are you guys excited for university?" asked Kim. "Cause we're going to have to make college worth the experience."

"Hell yea!" shouts Alya and Nino in unison.

"Awesome!" replied Kim. "Knowing that all my friends are going to University de Miraculous, it'll make college life so much easier knowing I'll have others suffering with me."

As the upbeat music fades, a slower beat song takes its place as some students couple up while others leave the dance floor.

"Well, looks like it's my chance to dance with my girl." Says Kim.

Alix snorts, "As if. You have to woo me first numskull."

"Challenge accepted, but at least give me this one night as a freebee to dance."

Rolling her eyes, Alix gives in for the night and heads with Kim to dance, followed by Nino and Alya, Rose and Juleka, and Ivan and Mylene as they slow dance with one another.

Watching as couples begin to dance, Adrien looks over to Marinette. "So, uh, w-would you like to dance?"

Marinette looks up to see Adrien looking at her, both their eyes staring at each other.

"You would want to dance with me?" asks Marinette.

"Of course, why wouldn't I?" Asked Adrien confusingly.

Shrugging, Marinette replies, "I don't know. I guess I-I just thought you'd want to dance with someone more important than someone like me."

Adrien is stunned. Does she not see how much of an amazing and beautiful of a person she is? 'Why would she think that? She is important. Well, I'll have to prove her wrong.'

"You are important to me, Marinette. There's no one else I'd rather spend the night and dance with tonight than you. And honestly, I don't want to be hounded and stuck with Chloe or Lila. I don't like them very much and I want to be with someone I truly care about. So please, will you dance with me as my date tonight?"

Marinette blushes from Adrien's comment; he himself blushing as he holds himself together in front of Marinette. He's hoping he doesn't make a fool of himself tonight.

Giving a warm smile, Marinette gives a nod. A smile forming on both of their lips. He grabs her hand and walks her to the middle of the dance floor, standing face to face as they dance to the slow song.

For Marinette, the night couldn't get any better than the moment she's in right now. If it gets better from here, then she'll gladly take it, but for now, she's going to focus on tonight and spending time with her best friend and crush. 'Maybe this means he has some feelings for me. Maybe I have a chance with him after all.'

Tonight, everyone takes this break to let loose and relax as they celebrate their success of graduating lycée and preparing for college and living as adults with no care.

With graduation completed, summer has officially begun. All four using the time to prepare, relax, and pack for university. They spend a majority of the summer hanging out and partaking in group activities. When they weren't together, Marinette became busy helping her parents in the bakery or working on designs, Adrien suffocating with busy photoshoots and campaigns for his father, Alya working as a part time journalist for a small blog company, and Nino gaining a small following with being a night DJ for certain venues. With the four running around together and working, it wasn't long before the summer was coming to an end and university about to begin.

At the Agreste mansion, Adrien invited Nino over to help him pack some belongings in boxes for the move in for university in a week.

Having another box packed, Nino and Adrien sit on his white couch to take a breather when Nino asks Adrien a question.

"So dude, I'm curious." He looks over at Adrien. "When are you going to confess to Mari?"

Adrien starts from the question. "Why do you keep asking?"

"Because bro, I want you to be happy. You've been avoiding asking Mari out since you came to collége. Just ask her out."

"Nino, you don't understand."

"What don't I understand, Adrien. Enlighten me."

"I'm afraid she'll reject me. She's this amazing, talented…woman now and I've got nothing compared to her." Adrien sinks down further in his couch, exhaling a deep breath.

"Dude, you're being ridiculous. I'm going to tell you right now that you're wrong. You are just as amazing and talented as Mari. I'm telling again, confess to her, take a risk. You'll be surprised by the answer."

"But what if she doesn't."

Nino takes a deep breath. "Alright, I'm going to tell you a secret. If you tell Alya that I told you and she kills me, I'm coming back and haunting your ass."

A chuckle escapes from Adrien's mouth, "What secret?"

"Listen, I love you but you're oblivious." A sound of dejection comes from Adrien. "Sorry, but you are bro. Anyhow, Mari has a huge crush on you too."

Hearing those words caused Adrien to shoot straight up and facing Nino. "Are you serious. I swear to God if you're messing with me, Nino."

Nino raises his hands to silence Adrien. "Dude, chill. I'm being serious. Why else do you think she was stuttering and tripping all around you? You made her that way. Trust me. Ask her out. Mari would be so happy. And just in case if you're worried, it's not because of your status or being a model. I'm telling you, if I have to hear the story how she fell in love with you again…gah, I don't know what I'd do."

A love struck smile forms on Adrien's lips. "Thanks, Nino. I'm glad you told me."

"So, does this encourage you enough to take the risk?"

"Yea, I think it did."

"Good, now let's go. Those boxes are going to fill themselves."

Nino and Adrien fist pump as they stand up from the couch and head back to packing Adrien's belongings. This will be a new beginning for him. He's excited to begin his education in what he wants to do and finally breaking away from his father's control. Only thing left is gaining the hand of his lovely crush.

As the week left of summer flew by, the week of move in for university as finally arrived. When arriving at the University de Miraculous, the campus was crowded with new freshman as students scatter around the dormitories searching for their new apartment.

Signing in and retrieving their own set of keys, Marinette and Alya head up the fourth level of the dormitory where they find their new home for the year. Opening the door, the girls look around at the spacious living room and kitchen, and two individual rooms on each side. Marinette taking the left bedroom and Alya taking the right bedroom.

Behind them both their families enter with boxes as everyone starts bringing up all their belongings. Together, they managed to make their apartment homely. Alya and her parents made her room like back home, but with more of a reporter and journalist feel. Newspaper articles and printed articles of crime, disasters, and mysteries pinned along the walls, along with some band posters. Multiple recording devices set up by her computer desktop and laptop. Marinette and her parents made her room similar to her old room back at the bakery but more like a mini fashion office. Fabrics laid against the wall, her manikins against the same side of the wall, her sewing machine and kits set up in the corner on its own little table, and Jagged Stone posters. In all, it took the two families about three to four hours to get the entire apartment set up. Not bad for two families.

On the same level, in another hallway, Adrien and Nino finished setting their room up. Without anybody on his side, Adrien thankfully had the help of Nino's family to help set up their apartment together. Their apartment was the same set up like Marinette's and Alya's. Unlike their room, the boys had less kitchen items, but plenty for the boys. In Nino's room, he had a majority of his walls covered in band and popular DJ posters and some records hanging up as well. On his desk, Nino had his computer set up with two monitors set up with all his recording programs and next to his computer he had another table set up with all his recording devices and DJ equipment. Across the room, Adrien had his room set up fairly simple but homelier than his room back at his father's mansion. With two tables, Adrien set up his computer with all three monitors, one specifically set up for his games consoles. And along his walls just like Nino, he has some band posters hanging up, a good majority being Jagged Stone.

With both their apartments set up, all four excused themselves from their families for the freshman orientation presentation being held at one of the auditoriums at the university. While they sat in orientation, their families waited in their apartments. Thankfully, it was still early in the day. They wouldn't have to worry about losing their move in day stuck in orientation.

After an hour and a half of listening to the presentation, the freshmen were released and exited the auditorium. Moving through the crowded campus, all four made their way back to the dormitories to meet back up with their families. When they returned and texting their parents' half way back, they found their families waiting near the front entrance of the dorms.

Letting their kids have the rest of the day to navigate the university, the parents say their goodbyes.

Marinette's parents take turns wrapping her in hugs.

Her father still holding her close, "Take care, kiddo. Be safe and careful."

"Of course, papa."

"Remember, if you need anything at all you can always call us." Adds Sabine.

"I know, maman."

Looking over to his side, Tom sees Adrien standing a few feet aside, him shuffling his feet and kicking pebbles. A hearty chuckles escapes the large man and shouts to Adrien, "What are you doing over there, son?"

Adrien looks up startled. "Sorry. I didn't want to interrupt and get in the way." Replies Adrien nervously. He wasn't part of any of their families and didn't want to get in anyone's way regardless.

A sweet smile spreads across her face as she turns and looks at Adrien. "Sweetheart, you are part of this family. There's no need to be alone."

"That's right. Now get over here." Adds Tom.

Breathless, Adrien's face grows warm as red crosses his face and walks his way over to the Dupain-Cheng's. Standing in front of them, Adrien gets embraced by Sabine. "We're proud of you. Good luck on your studies." Sabine places her hands on Adrien's cheeks as she lowers his head down and places a motherly kiss on his forehead. "And remember, if you need any homemade baked goods or food, you know where to find us."

Moving aside, Tom takes her place and Tom envelopes the young man in a bear hug. Filling some air get squeezed out of his lungs, Adrien couldn't help but enjoy the warmth as he tries to return the hug as best as he can. Setting Adrien back on his feet, Tom releases Adrien from the hug.

"We're proud of you, Adrien. If there is anything you need, please don't hesitate to ask. Okay?"

Giving a nod, Adrien replies, "Of course, Tom."

"Oh and one more thing." Continued Tom.

"Yes?"

Placing a hand on Adrien's shoulder, Tom gives him a warming smile. "Please look after my daughter for me while you guys are here. I don't trust these freshmen guys and there's no one else I trust than you."

"Papa!" Marinette couldn't believe her father was doing this. And to Adrien! She stands on the side of her mother as her face grows red from a blush due to her father's statement, Sabine placing a hand over her mouth to try and cover the laughing.

For Adrien, he doesn't mind one bit. To him, Marinette is everything. With everything she's done for him during the past four years, he couldn't help but fall in love with the girl. Now being in university, he just needs to find the opening to confess his feelings, giving him more of a reason to get her protected. For all its worth, Adrien vows to not let Sabine and Tom down.

With a genuine smile, Adrien answers, "You can count me, Tom. I'll watch over, Marinette."

Giving a pat on Adrien's back, Tom and Sabine say one more goodbye to the two as they head off back to the bakery. Shortly after they leave, Alya's and Nino's family depart as well.

"So-" drawls Alya, everyone looking over to her. "What do you all want to do now?"

"Well duh. We live it up tonight!" Shouted Nino.

All laughing, they begin making their way back up towards their apartments to talk about plans for the evening. Maybe call and invite their fellow friends for a night to party. It's not like you are young forever.

It's university, it's the time to make the most of it. It's the beginning of making mistakes, having fun, and most of all, a journey to college shenanigans!