Falling Twice

by Titaina-Alexina

"Honestly Marinette, the identity you know least of all is yourself! You are a smart, funny, adorable, generous, selfless, clumsy, clever and 100% miraculous and long before you ever became Ladybug!" It was so obvious now, but where do they go from here? So many things left unsaid, saved for their plan to meet the next day.. But Adrien doesn't show.. Till 8 years later! Sin bin.

1. Chapter 1: Extra Spots & Polka Dots

~~~~~~Author's Note~~~~~~~~

So this is actually my first fan-fic and when I started writing this I was really loose and casual about it, not to mention rusty. Needless to say the first 3 chapters and possibly after that are a little rough and go through lots of editing to better the flow and over all style of the story. Summary: the beginning is very.. begin-y. During spare time when I have writer's block I try to come back and reword it to sound less basic, but the later chapters definitely show personal growth on my part as I try new things and get a bit more descriptive. Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 have also now been combined since their collective word count makes for better over all chapter average. ALSO THIS STORY HAS BEEN RENAMED! It was previously called "When in Paris" back before I had any real idea where I was going with this. I'm writing this fiction for fun and to help you fans and myself kill time before season 2 is out. THIS STARTS OUT INNOCENT, BUT AFTER THE TIME SKIP IT WILL GET SINFUL. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. IT'S NOT ALL FLUFF. While I love all my followers, and reviews and anyone kind enough to hit favorite I decided to try and focus on just posting this for enjoyment. So without further ranting please enjoy my work in progress story! (Its also intended to be 20+ chapters.)

~~~~~~~~~~~~End Note~~~~~~~~~~~~

It's an understatement to say the life of a super hero is a perilous one and Chat Noir was no stranger to the risk of his career taking on dark knights skilled with a blade, an entire zoo complete with T-rex, an army of axe-wielding henchmen, flurries of frigid weather and a towering golem. Twice. Near death experiences were a common occurrence for Chat...But Adrien on the other hand, his simple civilian identity one a fateful day in Paris had seen something so earth-shaking he felt his breath leave him, his body freeze, his mind race, and his heart stop. All because of a single spot.

A special day, not for him necessarily, but a day he looked forward to none the less. Since Adrien's joyous enrollment at public school he had made his first friends. Real friends. And was finally, after 16 years, able to begin to experience the life of an average boy.

So many exciting things were introduced to him by his new-found friendships that he never had with his singular...friend? Chloe. It happened to be a unique occasion to celebrate the day one of his good friends was brought into the world. And being the considerate and generous person he was, Adrien looked forward to expressing his gratitude with a gift to Alya on her birthday.

Despite his eagerness to show appreciation for all the spectacular memories Alya (among others) helped him create this year, Adrien was entirely at a loss for what to get her. It was Nathalie who acquired his usual gifts for Chloe at her annual excessive and exclusive birthday bonanzas. Which he swore lasted practically the entire month, as she hardly had anything else on her mind or mouth but her party and presents.

Nonetheless, gift shopping had appealed as an exciting experience. And Alya had been so forward, friendly and approachable that he was determined to obtain it himself this time.

"A new phone?.." he wondered aloud in the car on his way to school that morning. The Ladyblog seemed to encompass Alya's LIFE. She was constantly posting pictures, updates, insights, and theories about her favorite super heroine on a site she made dedicated to everything Ladybug. His personal favorite site, he admitted, a tinge of pink dusting his cheeks.

Alya's cell was practically her greatest treasure, ready for the newest scoops on the heroes of Paris, rushing towards the latest events featuring the duo in action, phone first. Phones were pricey though. Not that money was an issue for Adrien exactly, but he'd feel rather awkward presenting something that could be misconstrued as him showing off, especially if her other gifts were far less...flashy.

"What else would be acceptable?" he sat back against the black leather seat crossing his arms before noticing that Nathalie's eyes were on him expectantly. Had she said something while he was lost in thought?

"Well?" she added pointedly, waiting for a response to a question he had entirely missed.

"Oh! I'm sorry, I was thinking about...a project for school. Please repeat?" The embarressed teen replied sheepishly, giving her an apologetic smile. Adrien appreciated and respected Nathalie as well. Despite her strict and professional attitude toward him, she also seemed to care more for his feelings than his own father did, and looked out for him in her own way.

"You would like a new phone?" The question had been repeated in the same direct tone, the cold woman cocking her brow slightly. Shaking his head hurriedly, he realized she must have heard him debating aloud on Alya's gift and concluded he wanted the latest model for himself.

"Oh no no, my phone works just fine! I'm good." Adrien -debated explaining to Nathalie about the gift, but to his relief she seemed to disregard the conversation entirely, turning her attention back to her work. Like him, his father kept her very busy and he decided not to trouble her further with the matter.

"GIRL!" Alya cried, prying open her gift somehow both delicately and swiftly as she peeled back the glitter sprinkled tissue paper in the baby pink box, the black lace bow bouncing with the fervent effort to uncover its contents. "GIRL!" she exclaimed a pitch higher than before as her fingers discovered the treasure within, plucking out its contents while her free arm sought out the gift giver.

Marinette's heart swelled with delight at her friend's exhilarated response to her present, Alya gripped the ruby red phone case patterned with little black spots as her eyes sparkled. She watched as the brunette's excitement only grew examining the details of the case.

"Built in stylus?! IT'S A PEN TOO! Card slot?! It's kinda heavy though.. What's the port for here?"

Marinette giggled, tapping at the thicker backside of the case gently. "Well, being the best in the Ladybug blogger business, you never know when your battery might be running low at a critical moment trying to catch all the action. So I modified it to have a built in back up battery charger to hook it into for emergencies."

Alya's jaw dropped as her eyes poured over her very own custom made Ladyblog phone case with a look of absolute glee. "I can never get a new phone now!" she cried, squeezing her friend far too tightly.

"S-sure you can, I can always make another in a different size." Marinette gasped, one eye closed as she felt Alya's excessive admiration in the form of a hug as passionate as the girl's love for reporting. She had been looking forward to giving her best friend the handmade case since she finished it two weeks ago, eagerly awaiting to see if her gift could express just how much Marinette knew and cared for Alya.

"Thanks Tikki.." she thought, glancing at her purse and recalling the extensive debate on what to buy Alya, when Tikki suggested something Marinette made would be so much better. Her beloved kwami was right, as usual, and Marinette's love for fashion and her friend combined to create something she was utterly proud to present to Alya on her birthday.

Alya continued to proclaim her love and adoration for both Marinette and the gift at a rather vocal level despite Chloe's early morning complaining about everything and everyone, which was thankfully drowned out in the commotion.

Adrien made his way up the steps toward the courtyard, where he assumed Nino would be waiting, blaring music in his headphones before class. Something he thought was likely to ruin his friend's hearing, but Nino insisted it was therapeutic and prepared him for the lessons ahead as he found his "daily rhythm".

He halted halfway up the stairs, his ears perking at the rather deafening and excited chatter of the very person he had been mentally shopping for. Turning his head back he spotted the upbeat pair, watching Alya squish and squeeze her best friend to bits with one arm while clutching an unwrapped gift in the other.

His eyes fell on the red and black speckled phone case between two of Alya's fingers as his shoulders slumped. "No new phone then...that will ruin Marinette's rather insightful present. AH!" A smile crept across his face as the perfect idea hit him. Marinette would know exactly what to get Alya!

Without realizing he was doing it, Marinette's gaze met his as her expression changed from joy to what he could only guess was shock or...horror? No, it was just Marinette's usual uncomfortably alarmed face. Adrien was always a bit bothered how often he managed to bring that expression out of her.

"Oops.." he thought, suddenly aware he must have been staring at her with a stupid grin out of the blue and immediately regretted how rude and weird that probably seemed as he unintentionally intruded on their spirited excitement.

Marinette's eyes were inevitably glued to that flattering smile directed at her on the face of none other than her hopeless crush: Adrien Agreste. Like a deer in the headlights, her mind scrambled to find the appropriate response to the sudden attention she was receiving, and thus her mouth stretched into what she hoped was an equally friendly smile.

Unfortunately without the upturned corners to set the tone as she bared her teeth with perfectly placed raised eyebrows and saucers for eyes, it came across as over all frightening. Alya gave her a rather quizzical glance before smirking and turning her head in the same direction as Marinette's focus, knowing exactly who she'd find at the receiving end.

"Morning Adrien!" she called up to him, pushing Marinette in front of her in an attempt to disrupt the rather awkward expression and encourage a more pleasant greeting.

"Good Adrien!" Marinette blurted out, immediately wishing to suck the poorly formed sentence back into the depths of shame from which it was inevitably plucked. She winced, trying not to hang her head as Alya rolled her eyes with a knowing smile, marching them both up the steps toward him.

"Morning Alya! Morning Marinette!" Adrien chimed, now facing them as they approached, redirecting his gaze on Alya. Much to Marinette's relief.

She could feel herself getting increasingly more rigid the longer he watched her, relaxing the moment he shifted his attention to her companion. If only a little, as her body reflexively shuddered. "Am I ever going to learn to be a normal human being around him?" At least as Ladybug she wasn't quite such a train wreck, why did it have to be so different outside the mask?

Trying to keep his focus on Alya exclusively, for Marinette's sake, Adrien's eyes locked onto the chatty, curly-haired ombre as she approached. With a dramatic wave of the object creating such an energetic atmosphere, Alya proudly displayed her polka-dotted Ladybug themed phone case before Adrien's face.

His eyes roamed the craftsmanship with interest, as he himself adored all things Ladybug. Alya decided to continue to shower her praise in front of the newest addition of what she must have imagined was an audience of admirers. (Being exclusively just himself, her and Marinette as their nearby classmates carried on with occasional curious glances.)

"Behold the amazing and breathtaking work of our very own fashion designer: Marinette Dupain-Cheng at her finest! Soon everyone will be wanting one." Alya exclaimed, caressing it fondly before roping Marinette closer with one arm. "My birthday present. Pretty miraculous, huh Adrien?" she practically sang, pressing her cheek to Marinette's and winking devilishly.

Adrien nodded with approval, recalling Marinette's prior abilities, and how she won the derby hat contest, despite a certain someone's less-than-savory efforts. His inner Chat Noir stirred at the well placed use of "miraculous" as he suppressed a catty smirk. "Wow Marinette, the effort and care put into this really shows. You know Alya so well." Adrien addressed Marinette directly, hoping perhaps some flattery might relieve what ever uneasy feelings she always seemed to have around him.

Not that it was hollow praise, he was perhaps even a little jealous, as he considered requesting one for himself before waving away such a selfish (and perhaps intrusive) idea immediately.

His efforts apparently had the opposite effect as he watched her wind even tighter in posture, her face seemingly to be torn on which expression it wanted to make. "Am I that hard to talk to?" he wondered mournfully, wishing he'd kept his resolve to focus on Alya to make up for his awkwardly timed gawking earlier.

Alya once again broke the tension with another rough squeeze of her already-uptight captive. "Doesn't it though? Who could ask for a better friend!" Alya continued to heap glory on Marinette as the poor girl's discomfort began to change her skin tone from porcelain to pink.

Marinette collected herself as best she could, inhaling slowly. As awkward as she felt now being praised by her beloved Adrien, Alya's persisted efforts to put her on a pedestal while she remained mute was only serving to triple the amount of butterflies in her stomach. "It was easy to do when I have a friend as great as you to inspire me." Marinette finally muttered bashfully, knowing her face was close to matching her pants in color.

If she could keep the conversation on Alya, it would be easier to talk. It was HER birthday after all! Marinette struggled to relax, aiming her sight selectively towards the elated Alya, a sweet, humble smile replacing her prior expression. Alya really did give her the courage to face anything...

Determined to block out the feeling of Adrien's observant glances, she pressed forward to keep the topic off herself. "I wanted you to have something you could use in different ways that you loved. You're an extraordinary reporter so deciding on just one thing was the toughest part! Honestly, even then I ended up incorporating different features into one idea. If anyone here is amazing it-" Marinette was silenced by the abrupt chiming of the school bell encouraging students to begin heading to class.

Alya popped her phone out of her back pocket, prying off her old phone case (of which she promptly dunked into a waste basket upon entering class) and replacing it with her newest Labyblog gear, commenting how her key-chain even matched.

Nino skidded in behind them, apparently nearly running late as he practically slammed a poorly wrapped rectangle on Alya's half of the desk. A rather sassy expression spread across her face as she examined the inept packaging job, Nino held up his hands defensively.

"Since when is it about the paper and not the present itself, yo?" he stated, as if it justified his shoddy job.

Whether he did it in a hurry or was just unskilled, Alya shrugged it off as she unwrapped it far less gracefully than she had Marinette's tastefully made parcel. Nino looked positively pleased with himself while Alya tilted over his present, considering it. "Is this the band you've been trying to get me to go with you to a concert for?" she asked darkly, turning the the CD case over in her hands.

"Yes...but that's why it's a great gift! I know you'll love them after you hear them and this particular track is siiiiiiiick dude!" Nino exclaimed, plopping on the bench, still half turned toward them. Marinette giggled softly as Alya gave Nino a skeptical but grateful smile, sliding the CD into her bag before whipping her phone out and practically slapping him with it.

"Look at the case Mari-" Alya began before being cut short by a shrill, haughty laugh from across the room.

"Look how easily impressed she is! One cheap little phone cover and it's all she can talk about! Probably the most expensive thing the poor girl will get for her birthday." Chloe's piercing voice had captured a majority of the classroom's attention.

Adrien nearly flinched. This was becoming almost a daily ritual; the snobby prima donna finding something unkind to say just to set the mood for someone's day. He heaved a sigh, wishing someone like that hadn't been his first friend as he glanced over to see the smug look on her face while she folded her arms and continued with another mocking laugh, once again in Alya's direction. Sabrina was following along in her typical posture copy.

Sensing the coming conflict, he glanced back toward Alya to gauge the level of hatred being collectively gathered to fire like the blazing bold cannon she was. He was pleasantly surprised to see both Marinette and Alya had crossed their arms, leaning back confidently on their shared bench as they sized up Chloe for a tag team take-down. Feeling only a tinge of guilt, he awaited their retort eagerly, mentally cheering them on.

"At least she doesn't have to BUY her own gifts. Or her friends for that matter. Unlike some people." Marinette was the first to strike.

Chloe was about to return fire before Alya cut to the chase. "And maybe this isn't as expensive to you as all the fancy things your Mayor daddy buys you, but all the money in Paris, heck, the WORLD couldn't purchase this one of a kind custom made case from me." Alya struck the finishing blow and Adrien held back a chuckle as Nino freely expressed himself.

"DANG dude!" he cried, laughing loudly before being silenced by an icy glare from a bristling diva, who readied herself for a counter attack. While Chloe wasn't known for her intelligence or wit, but she always found the nastiest things to say to people. Most particularly when she was offended herself.

"An amateur gift made by an amateur designer for an amateur reporter. It suits you." she crossed her legs turning to face the board, looking repulsively proud of herself in the worst way.

Adrien never understood how Chloe's smile could look so cruel in comparison to the ones of the friends he now held dear. He watched the duo behind him poise for a massive counter strike, both positively fuming, but sadly being brought to a screeching halt as their teacher strode in and placed her things on the desk at the head of the class.

As Adrien faced forward he couldn't help but cast one last glance back to see the usually cheerful little Marinette grinding her teeth in fury, and spitfire Alya followed suit with her fists clenched tight, both staring daggers at Chloe. His heart sank a bit, hating to see them so hurt by Chloe's biting return as he slid his attention over toward the blonde bully.

"They didn't deserve that.." he mentally objected, his gaze managing to catch Chloe's eye. She waved at him, smiling her flirtatious smile as she relished his attention. Adrien pursed his lips, shaking his head at her disapprovingly. It was no winding punch to the ego, but to Chloe it was enough to earn a shocked scowl and a huff as she faced forward.

Chloe was always a thorn in Marinette's, or honestly anyone's side. Perhaps even tender-hearted Adrien Agreste, who even occasionally seemed bothered by her incessant, self-centered, and abrasive nature. It had become an increasingly bold habit of Marinette's to shut down Chloe's attempts to verbally strike down her classmates. With time she had slowly managed to grow thicker skin when it came to the personal insults that Chloe would direct at her when confronted.

And hence, it now took more to get a rise out Marinette's gentle nature. Unfortunately, it also now took far less when it was directed at some one she cared for deeply. Marinette clenched her jaw tight as she tried to draw back her seething anger at the tactless shot Chloe had tossed at them, less bothered by the blow aimed at her pride and more so by the ones aimed at her best friend on her own birthday.

"See if I actually save you next time you create another bitter villain out to make you miserable." Marinette thought, crossing her arms as she tried to absorb the lesson her teacher was beginning. "We will though. It's our duty to protect all of Paris, not just the people we like. Or did we learn nothing last time we left Chat to babysit?" her inner Ladybug replaced Marinette's bitter feelings with her usual sense of justice and duty before all.

To her relief the first half of the day went by casually, with no further incident. She had managed to catch a glimpse of Adrien's disapproving look at Chloe, which was apparently enough to end the out bursts of the dramatic diva for the time being.

"He's so cool." she thought with her usual sigh and swoon, admiring the back of Adrien's sunny locks like they were a breathtaking sunset. To her dismay, Adrien seemed to feel her eyes on him as he glanced back at her. "Shoot!" her mind screamed. As if she hadn't made enough of a fool of herself this morning.

She watched his perfect lips carefully as he mouthed something to her, casting a quick glance toward her overly observant friend beside her to see if she caught Adrien's message. Alya was focused on Ms. Bustier's French Literature lesson thankfully. "Like you should be!" she read on Tikki's disapproving stare. The kwami was eyeing her through the cracked opening of her purse.

She turned her attention back to Adrien, her curiosity canceling out her usual cloud nine mind wipe. Marinette felt horrible as she raised her shoulders in a shrug to inform Adrien she was unsure of what he was attempting to convey.

He just smiled and mouthed one last word, which she managed to catch this time. "Later." Her heart soared as she gave him an anxious, awkward smile, nodding her head with a little too much enthusiasm. She managed to dial back her giddiness before Alya caught on to tease and pry later. Adrien gave her a thumbs up before turning his attention back to Ms. Bustier.

"He wants to talk to ME later." Marinette clasped her hands together and sighed dreamily again.

Passing notes would be suspicious, he realized, so Adrien resolved to get a hold of Marinette to ask for her help during lunch break. She at least picked up that he wanted to talk, and to his relief instead of her usual dumbstruck expressions she looked even possibly excited to chat later. "She doesn't DISLIKE talking to me at least?" he confirmed as he continued to take notes for the upcoming test Ms. Bustier had informed would be some time at the end of next week.

Adrien was a straight A student, and he HAD to be to maintain his enrollment at Franciose Dupont. He knew the moment his grades slipped, his father would make him go right back to home schooling so he took his note taking quite seriously. But if he had to be honest, his friend Nino needed them more than he did. It was something he was happy to share with his pal often after class or on lunch break for their occasional study sessions. One of which, in fact, Adrien recalled he would have to take a rain check on today to discuss gift ideas with Marinette.

Maybe he should treat her to lunch as thanks? He considered if that might make her even more uncomfortable around him as his hand flew diligently across the page, having no issue keeping up with the lecture.

It wasn't long before the bell chimed to begin recess for lunch. Adrien slid away his things and grabbed his satchel before casting an expectant look towards Marinette, who had also finished packing. "A-Alya, I need to go help out at the shop for a bit. I promised my parents to lend an extra hand as thanks for preparing the cake for the party."

Adrien watched, a bit concerned now that perhaps he might once again be imposing, but he detected a note of nervousness in her tone. "Oh, should I come too? They really didn't need to make the cake free just-" Alya began, shoving her pad into book bag, ready to follow before being discouraged abruptly.

"No no! You're my best friend and they wanted to! I just offered as thanks, it's not that much work anyways. I'll be back before the bell!" Marinette replied swiftly, already at the door.

"I'll catch you later then!" Alya called after her before turning her attention towards Rose, Juleka, and Mylene as they approached her with well wishes.

Adrien managed to catch up with Marinette at the school entrance, looking rather nervous himself. "Sorry I wasn't very clear before, but if you're busy then-" he started, rubbing the back of his head. He stopped mid sentence as he watched her frantically toss her head at his apology.

"Not at all! I'm not- well it wasn't a lie. I did promise to package a couple orders at the shop, b-b-but it really won't take very long s-so..." she stuttered quietly, fidgeting with her little pink purse.

"She's always putting others first." Adrien thought with admiration once again for all her subtle strong points. "Well, I just wanted to ask for help getting a gift for Alya, since you two are so close. So how about I tag along and assist if it's not too much trouble?" Adrien was all too happy to offer, remembering his last visit to the Dupain-Cheng residence. It was brief, but his time there was so welcoming, and her parents were so generous and warm that he wondered if his offer was more for his enjoyment than for her.

"That salmon pie her mom baked was outstanding too..." he recalled fondly the fresh scent of baked goods even in the residential area. And the bright colors and decorations lining her room, along with her friendly and loving parents who checked up on them (very) often. Nothing like his life at home, he thought, biting his lower lip as he stifled a heavy sigh.

Marinette was entirely unsure what to expect as Adrien had caught up with her. "A gift for Alya? Of course, this is likely his first year shopping for friends and birthdays too since its also his first year at public school." Marinette's heart went out to him as she felt her body melt in his charismatic glow and kind-hearted nature. But he also offered to come help at the shop as thanks?

She felt a little uneasy about that, but turning him down might make it seem like it was a bother. It was fairly easy chores, and as long as they stayed out of her Adrien Agreste shrine of a room it should be fine, right? Perhaps she could even treat him to lunch then, since her nosy parents would inevitably offer, and he really seemed to enjoy her mom's cooking last time. It ran the risk of further embarrassment, but helping Adrien won out in the end.

Making their way down the step toward her family's shop, she attempted to channel the confidence of her inner heroine and not trip over her words...or feet even. "So...this means you'll be at the party tomorrow, right?" Marinette began shakily, keeping her eyes on the pavement to avoid her usual disaster-prone slips, and to maintain a steady heart beat. Well...steadier.

"Yeah. I haven't had the chance to go to many parties, and Alya's been great. I'm looking forward to it." Adrien replied, pushing his hands into his pockets, matching her somewhat awkward pace.

"But you're unsure what to get her, which is why you're me." Marinette wanted to smack herself for the slip-up, "ASK me. You're not me, of course. Wanted to ask me." She turned her head away, making a pained expression before swiftly looking back toward the pavement. She heard Adrien chuckle as they approached the crosswalk.

"Yeah, I had one idea but now I think it kinda fizzled. It might have been a little over the top anyway...I'm not really sure how this works." he admitted. Her heart sank as her eyes dared lift towards his sullen facial expression. Such a lonely world Adrien must have known for so long...

She felt so lucky to have the loving life and friends that she wanted nothing more than to share with him in this moment. Were she a bolder woman, she might embrace him and let him know he was far from alone now. But that day dream - like so many others - would have to be locked up.

Her dream was literally washed away with an icy spray of street water, showering Marinette as a car zoomed by at unsafe speeds. She stood petrified, mouth open, feeling the dirty, frigid water seep through her blazer and trickle down her legs, forehead, and neck. "Perfect." she thought, glancing back Adrien to examine the damage.

He had thankfully been out of reach, but his face might have said he was hit with something far more insulting. "Wow...I..." he started but trailed off, looking her over with an expression she couldn't quite place. The chilly breath of fall swept past them as she shivered slightly, processing the unfortunate incident in silence.

What the hell was he doing?! The Agreste family prided itself more than anything on being respectable, well mannered, and proper. Adrien felt his stomach drop as his eyes trailed over a shaking and alarmed Marinette, who was now the victim of his failure as a gentleman and hero. Had he been paying attention he could have pulled her out of the way. Or if he had been standing curb side properly he would be the one soaking wet and laughing off the incident as he phoned Natalie for a change of cloths.

But no. Adrien Agreste, son of fashion designer brand name Agreste, model, and secret vigilante, was now standing there stupidly, heavy with guilt as he watched his friend strip off her soggy black jacket. "Wow.." he said again.

"Oops! I should have been paying more attention, I guess." Marinette laughed innocently as she folded her blazer over her arm and smiled, despite the water seeping into her remaining clothes. Adrien felt so ashamed and disappointed in himself in that moment as he observed her making light of his thoughtlessness and even blaming herself.

He struggled to find the words before his breath caught in his throat while his eyes spotted something on her shirt...or rather through her shirt. "Oh gosh!" he almost gasped aloud, realizing the water was turning the front half of her white tee see-through. It seemed she hadn't yet noticed it herself - thankfully -and before anyone else could notice, he found himself draping his overshirt across her shoulders.

"Marinette, I'm so sorry..." was all he could manage to say softly, fighting the heat rising to his cheeks from both his self-loathing and her wardrobe malfunction. His gaze sank to the pavement before bouncing back up to her face as he heard her begin to howl with laughter.

"Sorry for what, Adrien? Were you driving the car? Did you make it rain earlier? I know you're amazing and talented but not tha-" she couldn't finish before holding her sides as she tilted her head back, losing all words in her giggling.

This sweet little girl, who'd been hit with murky gutter water, was standing before him, busting a gut like he'd told her the best joke in the world. Not blaming him, or crying, cursing, yelling, or even complaining. Just...laughing. And it was infectious. Watching her smile and giggle away, he found himself following suit as his earlier self resentment faded. And his heart lifted in the presence of her honest optimism and fits of laughter.

Why he was apologizing was beyond her, but the look Adrien had given her: like he might as well have been the one to hit her with a bucket of the filthy liquid, was more than Marinette could bear. "Let him know you're fine!" her mind cried out, ignoring the chill on her abdomen and thighs as the water claimed more of her clothes.

Apparently her brain decided the solution was to laugh it off, because in this moment where he looked so upset she honestly just wanted to see him smile, even tease her if it helped. It took her a minute or two to calm down, and to her relief it had apparently worked, as he was now enjoying the situation instead of blaming himself for it. Marinette winded down with a happy sigh as she pushed some of her drooping bangs from her face.

"The shop is just ahead, no worries. I can change there." Flashing him a shy smile, she continued forward as the crosswalk signaled it was safe. Her self awareness kicked in to inform her what a mess she must look like in front of ADRIEN of all people. He nodded, looking a bit embarrassed as he averted his eyes from her. "I must look worse than I thought." she groaned to herself as they picked up the pace.

"Welcome!" Tom called from the back of the store, making his way towards the register.

"Just me Papa!" Marinette called, waving to her father as she and Adrien slipped in. Tom glanced her over, a bit stunned at his dripping daughter, before giving Adrien a broad grin and wave.

"Welcome back Adrien!" he placed the tray of freshly baked croissants upon the counter top before holding one out to him. "Just came out of the oven." he added as Adrien received it gleefully.

"I'll be right back to help out, just let me clean up first. Some guy was flying through the street, and...well..." Marinette explained.

Her father nodded understandingly. It was far from her first time being on the receiving end of unlucky accidents. And she was known as professionally clumsy since before she could walk. Marinette motioned for Adrien to follow her up to the residence, halting as he tossed his head.

"You go, I can get started on whatever you had promised earlier...if that's okay?" Adrien asked, glancing towards her father for approval.

Both surprised and amused, Tom slapped Adrien playfully on the back. "Ah! Well, Sabine was so excited this morning for the party that she managed to wrap up everything early! We'll take a rain check on that though, sound good?" Tom replied, pushing the confused boy towards Marinette with a wink.

"Papaaaa." she hissed, giving him an childish pout before continuing onward. Whether it was the truth or her father was just looking for an excuse to give her more time with the boy, he knew all too well she had a crush on Adrien. Marinette couldn't say, but she was both appreciative and apprehensive at the new found potential for personal humiliation. "He'll have to wait in the living room.. And mom.." she sighed, opening the door and ushering Adrien in as he finished off his pastry with delight.

"Your parents are always so kind. I see where you get it from." Adrien said endearingly.

Marinette felt her cheeks darken at his compliment. "Like I said before.. Nosy is a better word." she replied, closing the door behind them.

Adrien plopped down on the couch, glancing around the room as he nodded to Sabine who was at work in the kitchen. "I'll be quick. Sorry but my room is a mess right now due to... making Alya's gift." Marinette's reply came out like a squeak before dashing up the stairs, nearly stumbling half way.

He chuckled to himself at her endearing discomfort in admitting her messy habits unaware that the real reason actually being that her walls were speckled with cut outs, clippings, and prints of him from various magazines and articles. Jolting upright, Marinette had managed to startle him swung over the railing of the stairs gracefully with an arm full of cloths and...a towel moments later.

"Well I'd shower too if my hair was drenched by street water." Adrien lamented, another wave of guilt washing over him as he once again felt responsible for the event.

"Hi mom, be right back!" Marinette chirped, Sabine looked shocked for a moment, glancing after her daughter's mad dash to the bathroom before winking at Adrien who jumped slightly in his seat at the gesture.

"So glad to have you joining us for lunch!" She began to hum, her expression serene with a hint of mischief, returning her attention back to her food preparation. Adrien felt his conscience begin to nag, hoping he hadn't offended her with his sudden unexpected arrival. Being raised to consider how his actions would reflect on his father as well as appear in the eyes of others he was always overly sensitive to any possible over stepping of boundaries he might be incurring at all times.

Before the model had anymore time to stew on his possible misconduct Sabine was beside him, sliding a plate on the coffee table before clapping her hands together. "This is my new 7-cheese-quiche! I'll brew some tea!" She returned to the counter as quick as she had arrived, the aroma of a perfectly baked and tempting plate of food filling the room.

Adrien felt something in his bag stir, and unzipped it a bit to see two neon green eyes peering back at him. "Don't even try to deny you have food. Specifically cheese related." Plagg hissed, popping his head out to examine his surroundings.

Fearful the wonderful host might catch a glimpse of his partner in his quest for nourishment he decided to placate the hungry kwami and plucked off a corner of the still steaming dish, pushing it into Plagg's waiting paws before he zipped it shut and sighing with relief. "Mmmmmm." he heard muffled through the fabric with a bit more volume than the pleased creature had likely intended.

Sabine's head cocked back as she flashed him a giddy smile, "So happy to hear you like it, dear! The tea will be ready soon, and there is plenty more where that came from. Don't be shy."

Adrien beamed at her, taking the plate and fork as he tried his best to eat the scrumptious breakfast pie at an eloquent speed, despite his stomach's conveniently timed protest in the wake of the heavenly scent. If only he could get such heartfelt home cooked meals with such a loving atmosphere at the manor. Casting a glance toward the bathroom hall in which his classmate was still holed up, a soft smile crept across his lips at the realization their deepening friendship might be able to get him more of one thing fame and money could never honestly purchase.

Marinette was at war with her insecurities on her appearance and mannerisms. The first was insistent on to looking her best for her crush while the other argued against making him wait any longer. Unfortunately - with her wet hair - her usual pig tails were rather odd looking coupled with the fact the elastic didn't hold well against her midnight blue locks.

"Blow dry or hair down?" she asked her little red companion, toying nervously with the damp curls at the ends of her hair.

"He's waiting for you, Marinette. Adrien needs your help and your lunch break is almost half over. You look fine with your hair down." Tikki replied, patting her chosen's cheek lovingly with a reassuring grin. Marinette nodded in agreement, scooping up her soiled cloths from the floor. Her eyes fell upon the white over shirt as she stiffened before turning it over.

"Adrien's shirt?! When was I wearing this?!" Marinette thought back, frantically recalling how he draped it over her when she had pulled off her soaking blazer like the chivalrous heart snatcher he was. Making some rather garbled noises of affection, the smitten teen clutched the article of clothing to her chest, eyes darting around the room before pressing it to her face.

It smelled like soap and cologne...

Sinking to the floor she found herself sighing dreamily as she nuzzled the garment. Aside from the occasional misplaced scent of something that smelled like old cheese, Adrien smelled as good as he looked. Not that she made a habit of sniffing celebrities of any sort, but he did plenty of work with fragrance adds and was often gifted what ever products they had used his dashing face to advertise.

That, paired with his attention to hygiene for his line of work, there wasn't a single day Marinette couldn't help but enjoy this, among so many other details about him.

The young designer considered for a moment turning it into a pillow case before slapping the lurid idea from her head as she collected her belongings once more. Marinette was painfully aware how awkward it would be to do anything but return it to its rightful owner no matter how much she wished to add it to her collection.(Umbrella, love note to Ladybug, her heart...X9)

Folding it lovingly, she exited the bathroom, peeking out to examine how her guest was doing. Adrien was lounging on the couch, rubbing his abdomen with an adorably satisfied look on his perfect face. "Sorry for the wait." Marinette apologized, making her way to stand before him.

Adrien stood immediately, waving his hands to diswade any worry on his behalf. "No trouble! Your mother even treated me to an outstanding lunch! I'll let you take a hundred showers just to keep eating her cooking!" After finishing that reply he flinched, scratching his scalp. "Er.. that didn't come out quite right.."

Marinette felt the familiar tickling sensation like the fluttering of small wings in her belly as she laughed shyly. "O-oh." Her reply was soft, spotting crumbs on the corner of his mouth while her mind drifted off.

Adrien tilted his head slightly, meeting Marinette's distant gaze as she seemed to study him absent-mindedly, Sabine clinking away with cups in the background. He wiped his mouth abruptly, guessing she had taken notice the side effects of his borderline-ravenous eating of the delectable lunch. It was enough to jolt her out of what ever dreamy state she had entered before she turned her gaze away from him hastily.

"Th-thank you for earlier.." Marinette mumbled almost incoherently, holding out his white over shirt while blue eyes danced about the room.

"Of course. I feel like I should have been the one soaked to begin wi-" he began to take the shirt before another hidden piece of clothing fell loose onto the floor. They both stared down in stunned silence at the pair of bright pink panties with white frills and black polka dots now laying on the wood panel. "She really likes pink.." was the only thought his mind could settle on before glancing at her.

Adrien knew that look. He had learned it young, any time he had disappointed or embarrassed his father. The expression of utter defeat and shame, wanting to crawl under and rock and disappear. What could he say to help? What could he do? Bouncing back and forth between half formed apologies and possible topic changes, his instinct decided on something else entirely.

"Cute." Adrien wanted to smack himself. His comment at least prompted Marinette to snatch them up immediately before escaping with such speed she practically flew. "Bad move.." he groaned inward. "How was that in any way helpful? If anything you made it worse!" Making his way towards the stairs he cast a wary glance at the seemingly oblivious Mrs. Cheng.

"Marinette...I..." he began walking up the steps toward her room, trying to formulate the best way to ammend the situation and put her at ease. Before he could reach the attic door it flew open and a very red faced blur burst through it, narrowly missing him in a head-on collision. The rattled teen had managed to twist her body out of the way, but in doing so mistepping and began to fall, triggering his heroic reflexes. Adrien found his hand instinctively wrapping around her wrist, pulling her back to him in a tight embrace as both teens stood motionless for a moment in shock.

"Woah!" he could feel their hearts collectively pounding away as he slowly released his hold, watching Marinette take a shaky step back. It had felt almost familiar to manipulate her petite form into an ideal last minute save like he had done so many times before with his Bugaboo. Looking her over carefully Adrien could see the only damage done was to her pride, as the poor girl looked positively bothered while twisting at the hem of her shirt.

"Teas' ready." A sing song voice called up to them as Sabine made her way back to the coffee table with tray in hand before setting it down with a playful grin. "You two have fun, don't mind me." Now Adrien was resisting the urge to figet with his clothing shyly while following Marinette's prompt retreat down the stairs to the couch.

She watched her mother retreat back into the kitchen area with prying eyes, knowing full well she'd be listening in on every word. "Time to focus on the main purpose of his visit, then! He didn't come over so you could seduce him with food and showering. This isn't an anime.. Wait doesn't he like anime?" Marinette found her mind racing as she tried to regain her focus, steeling her shot nerves from her previous mortification and flat-lining rescue on the steps.

Despite her prior panty fiasco, what was mostly sending her emotions hay wire was recalling Adrien's sturdy chest and strong arms around her paired with a heartbeat almost as erratic at her own. "NO. FOCUS. HE CAME FOR HELP, NOT FLIRTING. If that can even be called flirting? Not really. Not unless flirting counts as you making yourself look like a fool." Marinette shook her head rapidly to clear her thoughts, easing onto the couch while offering him the monochrome tea cup.

Her attempts to be casual were immediately thwarted when their hands brushed as he took the cup, resulting in both of them looking away immediately. "I'm not gonna survive this encounter at this rate. Why is fighting against Hawkmoth so much easier?!" Marinette's mind was about to snap, throwing her into awkward mode as she tried desperately to cling to her sanity and pour the tea with a steady hand.

A small sip sent soothing ripples of heat down into her core as the liquid slipped past her throat and settled in her stomach, calming her mind and body just in time for her gaze to meet his perfect vibrant emerald eyes. "So, a gift for Alya. What was the idea you had before?" she posed the question as coolly as she could manage, turning the cup in her hand.

"Well...it was another phone, because she really seems to get more use out of that then anything. But I didn't know if that would come off as..." Adrien trailed off to search for the right words, but Marinette nodded, understanding.

"Yeah, that might be a bit much. Gifts that expensive could be given to some one very...special to you perhaps..." Marinette started, choosing her words carefully."Careful.. This sort of topic with have your tongue in knots. Don't side track."

"Well Alya is special. She's a good friend. I mean Nino is my best friend, but Alya is probably a close second?" Adrien happily replied as she watched him lift the cup to his flawless lips on his flawless face with his flawless- "Stop."

After taking a drink he proceeded to examined his cup, his eyes wrinkling at the little black paw prints that trailed around the rim and handle. "I mean more like...a...g-girlfriend, and even then that's a very serious gift. Stuff that costly is meant to make a sort of statement." she had already begun to stumble across her words just as predicted. Relationship talk always seemed to get lodged in Marinette's throat while her vocals decided to play name that tone.

"Oh...I didn't realize. Thanks. What would be good then? You're idea was so perfect." he flashed her one of his heart stopping smiles, the target prompted to tighten her grip on her little porcelain cup out of fear of dropping it while her body shivered.

"Well it's true that our reporter loves her phone quite a bit...oh!" Marinette straightened abruptly, meeting curious eyes with a perky grin. "We were at the mall and Alya was looking at a pair of wireless earbuds. I can't be sure, but her attention was on them longer than anything else we saw there." she watched Adrien swallow the idea, lifting his finger to his chin.

"What store?" He asked, nodding as he accepted the suggestion. Marinette's palm did actually greet her forehead this time accompanied by a frustrated groan."Oh...oh shoot! I can't recall! It was an electronics store, but there are a couple. I'm sorry..." her face flushed as Adrien lowered her hand gently from its cranial collision.

"Hey, hey, no worries! There are only a few, and I can check them out after school. Well...after fencing practice."

Marinette chewed her lip for a second before allowing herself to make a rather bold offer. "We can go together? It...it might be faster that way." She knew if she didn't jump on this oppurtinity she would never hear the end of it from her bold brunette and what good was she to Adrien if she only gave him half the solution? Not to mention it was now a possible date with Adrien. "Not actually a date!" she reminded herself swiftly.

Adrien felt bad dragging Marinette along after already asking her help figure out a gift at the last minute, but it was turning out to be a promising and exciting bonding expierence for him and the girl who often seemed to want to avoid him. "Progress right? Two birds, one stone." He nodded gratefully before finishing off his tea. "Thanks Marinette. You're a good friend." he watched her face soften into one of the most sincere and gentle smiles he had ever seen on her. Toward him anyways. His heart skipped a beat, eyes falling onto her lap where she held her little pink cup...with black polka-dots...

His mind flashed with the vivid image of the similarly designed undergarmets, swallowing hard before standing up hastily. "Last thing father condones is behavior like a common cad. She's your friend! Don't think about her like that!" Adrien scolded himself mentally, trying to block out Chat's fliratious tendencies to avoid stroking her knee affectionately. Marinette was quick to rise to her feet in response as they set their cups on the tray, ready to head back downstairs.

"Come back anytime, dear!" Sabine called after them as he looked back, waving with his usual charming model facade. Another feature he had perfected specifically to impress adults for his father's sake. Adrien watched doting mother clench her hands to her chest as they descended, looking just like Marinette in that moment.

The equally lovable father was next to bid a fond farewell as they reached the ground floor. "Leaving already? Would you like another to go?" he offered a second, still-toasty croissant to his guest, who shook his sun kissed locks politely.

"Mrs. Cheng already treated me to the most delicious quiche in all of Paris." Although Adrien's tone was suave, he honestly meant the compliment. Even the house chef couldn't compete in his book.

Tom roared with laughter as he slapped charming lad playfuly once more. Marinette's dad was a big man, so it wasn't a comfortable display of affection, but Adrien couldn't help but enjoy it despite the light stinging spanning the entire small of his back. Daring to briefly picture Nathalie giving him some form of similar symbol of approval he snickered to himself at the absurdity of it. "You come back soon, Agreste. You're always welcome here. Even stay the night if you like." Tom chuckled, waving as Marinette swiped a croissant and popped out the door while shooting him bothered glare. "Co-ed sleep over. What parents." Pointless to deny the small bits of envy he possesed over her life, Adrien continued to place stock in the value of their budding relationship.

Lunch break was nearly over as they made their way back across the street. "Your family is so..." Adrien began, though he couldn't find the words to finish as he walked beside Marinette, taking the side of the road with the large pool of water this time. He felt Marinette's curious gaze on him as he searched for a way to express how he felt her without coming off as ungrateful for his lavish upbringing.

The rich child almost always had anything he could want most of his days, save freedom and one thing he wanted more than anything else: affection. Saying that was far too awkward. "I want your family's love. Yeah that's not creepy at all. I want to be part of your family? NO. I wish my family was more like-" Adrien ruffled his hair in frustration, wracking his brains to find a satisfying end to his comment.

"They really like you too." she broke the stale silence, staring forward at the pavement. Adrien felt warmth spread through his chest in the presence of her caring and understanding nature. Time with her when given the chance was always so fulfilling. It wasn't even his birthday, but damn it felt like it.

"So expensive gifts are for girlfriends..." he let his mind wander as they made their way back up the steps. He glanced at Marinette subtly as his mind repeated: "girlfriend". "You like ladybug remember? Cut it out. You're just feeling weird because she's being so open with you for once." his inner Chat Noir was now swatting at the insinuation.

"She is being more open with me!"

The realization abruptly hit him that despite the occasional tension, he had managed to share a very casual lunch break with Marinette, without the assistance of some one else to keep the mood from growing stagnant. "And we both enjoyed it! Right?" Adrien eyed her curiously, allowing his optimism to label their intereaction as mutually positive.

As they opened the entrance doors to Francoise Dupont, he noticed her paus to mess with her hair. "Wait, her hair is down..How long has it been like that?" Adrien watched her silently, taking a mental picture of the shy little girl with her midnight blue curls dusting her shoulders just before she tucked them into her usual pigtails. "Cute.." his mind once again stated. "Stop."

Upon returning to class the rest of the day was rather uneventful. Alya was thankfully none-the-wiser about her little luncheon with Adrien, which Marinette had to keep reminding herself was NOT, in fact, a date. Her stomach growled softly, protesting the fact that its owner had only managed to down a cup of tea and half a croissant as nourishment, the other half of which was tucked in her clutch to the delight of a very grateful little kwami.

Alya slid Marinette a protein bar quietly under the desk with a wink. "You forgot to actually eat didn't you? You're such a dope girl." she whispered as Marinette took the bar and mouthed "thank you". It had been offered just in time, as her stomach decided to voice its discomfort a bit more vocally to her dismay.

Marinette began to nibble the bar discretely, praying neither the teacher or Adrien bothered to pay her any mind. Her plans with her teen dream had her on edge for the remainder of class, mentally preparing herself as she waited with baited breath for the final bell to ring to resume her one-on-one time with Adrien. "FOR ALYA." The devout voice of her conscience reminded her for the hundreth time while eyeing the clock anxiously.

The oblivious middle schooler realized all too late that her abundance of excitement displayed in her efforts to pack up were earning her a few suspicious expressions, especially since she was ready to go by the final chime. "We all like going home at the end of the day, but you're a little too ecstatic. What's up?" Alya was very good at asking questions that sounded more like demands. Despite haboring a deep love for her detail oriented Croatian friend, Marinette found it bit over bearing at times. "Not like I can tell her I'm going shopping alone with Adrien for her birthday gift. She might faint from shock. Not to mention he probably wants to keep it a secret."

"I have some things I need to pick up for my mother today. Oh and I have to call back Mrs. Chamack. She probably needs me to baby-sit Manon again." Did Alya catch the elevated pitch in her voice? "Excuses were never my strong suit. I actually do need to listen to the voicemail from Mrs. Chamack and mom asked me to pick up some decorations.. when I found time." Marinette chewed her lip, waiting to see if her friend bought her cover up.

Alya gave her a skeptical look, crossing her arms before nodding. "Alright have fun. Just promise to call me if you get in over your head like usual. I am a magical wish granting unicorn from the land of Respa after all." The offer was met with an heartfelt embrace and shared laughter as they bid their fair-wells for the evening.

Marinette nearly jumped out of her flats upon feeling the gentle tap on her shoulder."Hey. Didn't mean to startle you. Would you rather just meet up there? I forgot if I mentioned I have fencing practice first so it'll be a little bit before I can even go and I'd hate to make you wait." His eyes were downcast as if he were imposing some large burden upon her and yet as usual it was paired with a pleasant smile. "How can he smile look so lovely and still so lonely?"

"No no! Love to stay and watch! Er-" Marinette hated herself sometimes, especially when her tongue choose to work too well instead of not at all. "Oh now you can blurt out what's in your head. You timing is truly miraculous. Ha. Ha."

Adrien was taken a bit off guard by her offer, but soon found himself smiling ear to ear. "Well its not that interesting, but if you don't mind I'd be honored to have an audience. I promise I'll try and give you a good show." His broad grin slipped into a confident smirk that nearly made her knees give out, only halted by his motion to follow him back toward the courtyard.

(After watching the series a second time I am fairly certain their "gym" is also the court yard in the middle of the school which is where he does fencing.)

Marinette found herself in such a daze that she nearly fallowed Adrien into the changing room, managing to stop just before entering. Sliding sideways and leaning against the wall she attempted to make it look as if that was her intended desitation all along while Adrien chuckled softly with a wave before continuing in.

"Nice save. Nearly had a repeat of the bathroom incident." Sighing inwardly she patted her chest to ease the heightened thumping while she looked about. The realization that if the rest of the day goes this smoothly then she'd have a wonderful entry for her diary tonight encourages a small fist pump from the optimistic teen.

"Please Hawkmoth.. Don't come out to play." she pleaded silently, knowing with her luck she was about to hear distressed screaming any time now. Whether or not the herione would ever realize it, luck was on her side and thankfully today Hawkmoth decided not to be a total joy-kill.

A few boys in uniform came out one by one as they took their place, Marinette studying each one closely. Most were too tall and too short to be her favorite eye-candy, but at least 3 of them were close to his stature. Observing the possible suspects, the patient artist braced her back to the wall to, attempting to eliminate those who were not her beloved fencer.

"Bringing your girlfriend to practice now?" one of his team mates teased as Adrien zipped up his suit, pulling his helmet from his locker.

"Wha-she's not..." he started as a few of the boys laughed before exiting the locker room, dismissing his half-hearted corrections. The supposed boyfriend rolled his eyes at Plagg's teasing smirk from within the duffle bag. "Not you too. She's just a friend. You know I only have eyes for m'Lady."

Plagg just waved him away. "And I only have eyes for cheese. Ladies are too much trouble. I'll take a nice block of camembert any day."

Adrien slid his helmet, snatching his rapier before tapping the door shut. "I'll take one of those amazing Dupain-Cheng quiches any day instead." he reply prompted a purring noise from his feline companion as he phased through the locker.

"Oooooohh...that too." The black god's tiny tongue tracing a content smirk as he recalled the tasty piece.

"Go to sleep you little glutton." Adrien snorted, slapping his visor down while his partner complied without his usual objection to orders.

Exiting the locker room he caught site of Marinette studying the other boys intently with a look he percieved as passionate focus. Her lips were tucked inward as her eyes glistened, arms folded behind her back and abdomen arched slightly against the wall. He stopped beside her, lifting the visor to give her a playful grin. "If I had known you enjoyed this sort of thing sooner I'd invite you to all my lessons."

He hadn't intended to catch her off guard, but he watched with amusement as she proceeded to pat all over her face from every direction, looking around wildly before settling her eyes on him with a soft and meek "ahh!". Adrien couldn't help but laugh, clapping is helmet shut once more before joining his group, tossing her a parting wave.

"That girl is never boring." he thought, feeling his cheeks ache from how much smiling he had managed today. He readied himself against his teacher, poised to begin. As in most things, the young debonair surpassed most of his peers and in this case making him the main sparing opponent of his instructor Mr. Armand D'Argencourt. His teacher was a renowned fencer and an even fiercer opponent when akumatized, something that proved to keep his student light on his feet and enhance his combat skills a bit more every duel.

Adrien felt Marinette practically burning a hole in his suit with her stare as the lesson began, something he felt he was enjoying way more than he should. Whether it was just his skill or his inner hero's drive to show off, the promsing fencer managed to disarm his instructor in record time, and then his fellow students the remainder of the lesson. From the corner of his eye he could see Marinette's spirited hops and giddy fist pumps with every triumph all while vocalizing a plethora of jubilant and curious noises.

He hadn't really thought of this part of his day as more than just routine he kept to appease his father and stay fit, but today it felt different. "I think I'd like to make this a permanent thing.." A catty grin went unseen beneath the mask, feeling quite pleased with his excellent performance. Everyone shook hands and bowed, some clapping Adrien on the back and singing praise while other teased he was just showing off because he brought a girl, to which the boy couldn't honestly deny.

"Good work today Mr. Agreste. I hope you bring this much passion with you from now on and not just when you bring a Madame for which to flaunt your skills." his instructor added, twirling his rapier before sheathing it as he departed. Adrien made his way toward Marinette who looked almost as flushed and excited as he felt. "She looks like she's enjoying herself. Good.."

"That was incredible!" Teardrop pigtails bounced as the girl exclaimed her praise in probably the loudest he had ever heard her reach when not distressed. Pulling off his helmet to rest on his hip, he tried to fix the damage done to his usually styled locks. A tinge of pink crept into his cheeks as he noticed her pupils dialate at his disheveled appearance, his hand falling away.

"Ah, funny enough, I'm great but usually not that great.. You're like a good luck charm Marinette." he watched her face tighten as she shrunk back, digging the tip of her shoe into the cement as she hunched her shoulders to her ears, a bright pink creeping into her cheeks.

"Welcome back shy Marinette." Adrien lamented a bit, tilting his head and held back with a sigh. Studying her a bit more, he found he had to resist the sudden urge to pat the top of her lowered head comfortingly. As a friend he never liked making Marinette short circuit and shut down, but had it always been this adorable?

"Well I'm glad. I usually have the worst luck, that car splash earlier being the perfect example." Shy mumblings dribbled from her lips while trying to recover from Adrien's stab to the heart of pure charm that left her reeling. Marinette immediately regretted bringing that up, seeing a wave of guilt wash over the innocent boy."No no! Stuff like that happens all the time! Like once I accidentally deleted a video that was really important to Alya off her phone and then I dropped it in the trash trying to get it back!"

It was only after she shared the odd story she realized how little sense it made without hearing the whole of it. Unfortunately telling him she was trying to recreate the video as her super alter ego Ladybug wasn't exactly an option. To foot-in-mouth addict's relief, he seemed to skip over the lack of logic in it and just go straight to the humor.

"Nothing's ever dull with you huh? Lucky or not, you're always interesting. Be right back, I'm gonna change." Marinette nodded, swallowing Adrien's compliments like spoonfuls of honey as her eyes fluttered. "He thinks I'm interesting." A goofy smile spread across her reddened face.

"Be here.." she mumbled again, her voice wavering as he disappeared from sight. Looking around quickly to make sure it was safe, the infatuated adolescent whispered into her clutch. "Tikki, am I dreaming?"

"Nope." The little kwami's reply was bubbly and soft, pinching Marinette's finger gently with a giggle. Marinette swiftly clipped her purse shut as a few of the boys walked by, Adrien soon following. Extending his arm gently in an sweeping motion, he bowed slightly in a familiar manner.

"After you." Marinette had to stop her eyes from rolling, as she could practically hear "m'Lady" in the back of her head. Such a cocky display of chivalry was something she was used to from Chat Noir, but she had to admit it was a different sort of flattering on Adrien. She briefly wondered how stroking his chin might go down. "No, defintely don't do that."

"Ahaha.. Thanks." she continued as they walked out making their way toward the street. Marinette bit back a groan realizing she had left her bus pass at home. The destination wasnt exactly a comfortable walking distance, which she could have easily taken the time to prepare for during his lesson. "Instead of watching him like a love struck ninny you could have run back home and grabbed your pass. Now you have to make him wait on you." Before she could relay her mistake, Adrien pulled out his cell, turning away as he phoned a lady called Nathalie.

"I need to make a stop at the mall today to pick up something. Yeah, sorry, I promise we'll be quick. Oh, I have a friend from school coming with me. Okay thanks Nathalie." Marinette had tried to avoid listening in as best she could, recalling the rather sullen faced assistant she had run into once or twice before in charge with escorting Adrien to school daily amongst other things."The car will be here in a minute."

"That takes care of that I guess?" Marinette pulled out her phone swiftly, scrolling through her contacts. "I better let my folks know as well. -Ah Papa, I'll be home a little later today. I have to pick up some things for the party tomorrow. N-no I'm not alone. A..Al- Yes...Adrien. Papa!" She could feel her companion's curious gaze on her as she tried to wrap up the call. "Anyways love you. Bye!" Abruptly hitting the red button, she slipped her phone back into her purse before turning around with a smile. "Just don't want my folks to worry." she added softly, rubbing her head.

"Ah.." he said, her chest tightened a bit as she watched Adrien look off distantly.

She wasn't entirely sure what kind of relationship he and his father had, but it seemed very...business-like, and formal. "That lonely smile again.. Does no one worry for you?" Before Marinette knew what she was doing, her hand was on Adrien's shoulder, giving him a heartfelt squeeze. It was enough to lift the sadness from his eyes, as he placed a hand gratefully over hers. A gentle pat cleared the mist of worry that began to spread within her mind, removing her physical contact abruptly after realizing how bold she had just been. "Casual touching, No no. Don't ruin this. Its none of your business, not matter how much you wish he'd confide in you."

Not long after the chauffeur arrived they both climbed silently into the posh car that appeared tidy and still smelled very new. The new third occupant glanced around warily, worrying she might be in some way dirtying or damaging the interior of the pristine vehicle. Adrien proceeded to flip through his phone again, sending off a few texts before opening up a page she was all too familiar with.

"You read the Ladyblog?" she covered her mouth immediately after the shameful question left her lips, fully aware now that snooping at his phone screen might come off as rude. Luckily he apparenyl hadn't seen it as such.

"Who doesn't? Alya always has the best coverage on our super cool heroes of Paris, and Ladybug is really something else." His expression almost seemed almost embarressed, perhaps even a tad prideful.

Marinette felt her heart rate pick up speed, watching him smile at the mention of Ladybug. "Oh?"

Most of Parisians admired and were gratuitous toward their local saviors, Adrien was well aware, but often shied away from the limelight himself as Chat Noir. He was happy to have his fair Ladybug be the face of justice and the public's idol while he watched from the background with just as much respect and adoration as the spectators. Perhaps even a bit more so with each akumatized villain defeated and resourceful save he watched her pull off with such grace and confidence.

Both Adrien and his super hero persona were 100% smitten by the spotted heroine. Despite being able to witness the action first hand, and even be part of it, Adrien still enjoyed catching the stories and pictures taken from those on the outside all collectively displayed on a page dedicated to his beloved partner.

"Oh?" Marinette's curious tone brought him back down from his cruise on cloud nine.

"She's so selfless. And cool..and beautiful. Always putting herself in danger first while risking her life to keep Paris safe. Her last minute Lucky Charm rescues are so very inventive too. Not to mention her grace as she flies around like an acrobat atop the-" Adrien inhaled suddenly, pulling his lips inward as his eyes darted up to meet Marinette's wide eyed stare.

She looked positively pink. The crushing youth realized in this situation he likely came across as fanboy trash. "Wow you know you're smooth when some one else is embarrassed FOR you." Coughing into his fist quietly, his mind stuggled to figure out how to cover up his moment of weakness for his self proclaimed soulmate.

"But...by those standards, aside from the Lucky Charm bit, are you not a fan of Chat Noir?" His friend had asked softly, now staring holes into her shoes.

"Maybe if I wasn't him? Being a fan of yourself is rather vain. But I am awesome." his inner Chat was giving its two cents again. "Well I guess he's cool, but I think its clear who the real hero is between the two right?" Adrien was dumbfounded by Marinette's objective reply. He watched her clench her fist and shake her head like she were trying to free it from her neck, midnight pigtails wipping aggressively.

"Not-at-all! Without Chat Noir, Ladybug clearly would never be able to do it all by herself. He's protected her time and time again, showing real bravery, loyalty and self sacrifice for m-HER. Without that crazy cat, Ladybug would have been defeated long ago."

Adrien was used to being complimented daily by his fans, his friends, his classmates, and even his instructors. Despite all this the stylish model was humble and above all else, polite. Chat Noir - unfortunately - was not, and right now it was everything his civilian side could do not to allow that cat to grip her chin and give her a devilish smile, telling her to go on.

Nonetheless, he felt a some what taunting smirk creep across his cheeks as he watched her. "D-dont get me wrong! I'm not a fan or anything! That alley cat has plenty of girls after each commotion to feed his ego as is."

"None of which I pay attention to while I watch my Bugaboo." Adrien thought defensively, frowning for a moment at her insinuation.

"I only have eyes for yo-EUROPE! Such beauty... Ahaha.." she blurted conclusively, trying to look out the window to divert her obvious embarressment while fidgeting in her seat.

Aside from her ego feeding bit, he couldn't help feeling positively pleased with himself after hearing Marinette stroke his ego. Laying back against the seat with his arms behind his head, he stared up at the ceiling with a confident smile. "So it seems you follow their work too. What do you think then? Are they a couple?"

That girl was always throwing him for a loop, straightening to observe her as she held her sides laughing. "Oh NO WAY. For sooooo many reasons. I mean I know Chat seems to like Ladybug, but I've seen him flirt with fans too. I think his interest is just part of his playful personality. Ladybug on the other hand is far too professional to allow her duty to be affected by something like a relationship with her partner. It would be irresponsible to say the least and I can't see her considering it seriously." Folding her arms she wore and expression that looked quite matter-of-fact.

Adrien's heart hit his stomach at the overwhelming amount of logic in her words. All except one bit.. "You're probably right, save one part." He began slowly, Marinette opening one eye in response. "I don't think his feelings for Ladybug are just playful flirtations."

He watched her chew her lip and mess with her zipper, turning her attentin back out the window. "Maybe... But either way I dont think it would work out..."

The rest of the way to the mall was a bit more silent then either teens would have liked. It felt a bit rude not to attempt to reignite the conversation, but her mind was a little lost with the possibility Adrien had posed to her. "What if Chat's feelings are serious? "That wouldn't do. She didn't want to hurt Chat, but if they were to rely on each other in such a way it would make them more vulnerable. "That's basic super hero 101 right? Enemies exploit your loved ones?"

Marinette hoped with all her might that if that were the case he would realize it and give up on her before she had to actually break the poor kitty's heart. Ladybug's duty was to Paris and no one else...

Being the perfect gentleman Adrien was, he held the car door open for the troubled heroine upon their arrival. "Th-thanks." she whispered, taking his extended hand before stepping out to fix her jacket and leggings. She watched him absently mindedly as he leaned in to say something the to chauffeur before closing the door, giving her a friendly flash of teeth.

"Shall we?" Marinette did her best to channel her inner super hero as she spent the afternoon shopping about with Adrien. Checking store after store with no avail the pair was becoming increasingly disheartened in their quest. After every electronics shop had been eliminated they found themselves resting on a bench to regroup.

"I'm sorry...maybe they stopped carrying them..." Mumbling appologetically, she felt like she did nothing but drag him out here only to let him down.

Masculine hands met her shoulder with the unspoken intention of diswaying bleek thoughts. "Stay here, I'll be right back." Blinking twice, she watched as he dashed off toward a food cart. Upon returning he carried with him a tantilizing scent, offering two small paper cones before her eyes."Sorry, they smelled so delicious that I had to try them. Cashews or almonds?"

With a light giggle she picked the almonds, taking the cone gratefully before prying it open to inhale the rich sweet aroma of the caramelized nuts. She popped one into her mouth, savoring the taste of cinnamon and sugar a moment before chewing. "Mmm. I love these so much that I have a hard time not getting a pack every time I come shopping with Alya or my mother. You haven't had them before?" Her question came sounded a bit more like pity than she had meant, partaking in another bite in hopes of glossing over the sublte ache in her chest she felt on his behalf.

"Nope. I think I've only been here once with Nino. He wanted to check out a stand set up for...some special DJ equipment I can't recall the name of."

Watching the handsome lad take so much pleasure in the candied treats, Marinette didn't notice her cone slip from her hand and tumble to the floor before standing up suddenly. "S-stand! It wasn't a store, it was an electronics stand!"

Adrien swallowed before rising to his feet with a nod. "Thats great, maybe its still here. But..." he pointed at her spilled almonds scattered across the tile, giving her a playful smile.

"Oh! Shoot..." Marinette hissed, crouching to pick up the mess she made with a frustrated pout. "Adrien gets you a treat and you manage to ruin it within minutes. Typical clown. Why be a designer when you have such a promising future in the circus?" With a sigh she finished picking up the nuts off the floor, tossing them in a trashcan beside the bench, her companion at her side helping to throw out some he had helped clean. A mournful gaze traced the rim of the can as she mentally ridiculed herself for being so careless and wasteful especially since it was from her future husband. "Yeah right, who wants to marry a girl who cant even handle nuts properly? Wait... STOP."

"Marinette.." Hearing her name said so tenderly, she felt her disapointment abate a bit. Marinette turned her attention towards the owner, who was holding out his cone with a look tha made her chest feel like a stoked furnace. "I can't eat all this anyways." His voice, his smile, his kindness all destructive blows to the dam that served to restrain her pent up affections. With an internal crack and crumble, the tiny figure found herself standing on tip toes to place a peck utop the insuspecting boy's cheekbone.

"You're too nice Adrien.." Whispering softly against his flushed skin, she dashed away in hopes to out run the rapidly exapanding blush across her neck, ears and chest. "Stand is this way. I just remembered!" Without even daring to look back at the result of her forward display, she raced through the spacious corridor filled with people, deftly weaving around as if clad in her skin tight spotted suit. It wasn't too far down before she managed to spot the stand Alya had stopped at a few days prior.

Her pace slowed upon approached, gathering the courage to look over her shoulder for a hint of what might have befell the poor boy left bewildered and behind. He had apparently done a well enough job keeping up, only to be stalled by a few of his fans. "That's exactly how you get boys to like you back. You force yourselves on them then leave them in the dust while they're surrounded by wolves."

Rapidly attempting to recover her composure from prior fleeting bursts of confidence she began to make her way back towards the popular victim to help perhaps save him as he politely tried to escape their company. Marinette's new pursuit was unfortunately thwarted half way as a stranger approached her.

"I'm sorry...I am with some one today so...I cant- I have to be- uhh." Adrien tried to put distance between him and the line of squealing girls while keeping his partner within line of site, unsuccessfully.

"Like a date? Or just a friend?"

"Are you single?"

"Want to come with us? We know a great smoothie place."

One by one they inched toward the distressed model, pressing new questions, trying to trap their handsome target. Typically charming son of Gabriel Agreste usually would sign a few things and manage to make a dashing and sly get away, but Marinette's kiss managed to throw him off his game quite a bit as he struggled to find the right way to brush them off. After a minute he caught sight of her again, watching as a tall stylish man approached her. "Who is...?"

Adrien couldn't tell exactly what was being said, but his friend seemed increasingly uncomfortable with the man as he reeled her towards his stall. Sighing the young prince charming turned his attention towards the flock before him, flashing them his best camera capturing smile. "I'm sorry ladies, but I have plans. Perhaps another time." It wasn't his usual amount of tactful social elegance, he was aware, quickly pushing between the group to make his way towards his companion despite their objections.

Glaring at the overly familiar salesman who was toying with Marinette's hair gently before cupping her chin to running his finger over her lower lip, the polite prodigy felt something in his chest stir, clenching his fist while picking up his pace. The pretty boy was oblivious to the irate model approaching with seemingly dangerous intent. Paralyzed by her awkward nature the stranger began to apply a ruby red shade over her parted lips with skill, flashing a small mirror before her.

"See madam how it contrasts that beautiful blue? It really makes your lips pop and your eyes sparkle! All the boys will be staring. I know I am."

Adrien managed to grip her hand gently, pulling her towards his chest just as the salesman went from a playful wink to a cold scowl.

"Oh-oh. Well perhaps your boyfriend will oblidge? Do you see, good sir, how lovely the fair lady looks with such a luscious lipgloss? Surely it makes you want to-"

Adrien felt his heart crack slightly after glancing down at Marinette who seemed in the moment like she wanted to evaporate. Abruptly snatching the lipgloss container from the man he examined it, casting a glance over the price tag. "Indeed. Here." Aggressively handing the astonished salesman a rather large bill, he wrapped his arm around her small frame, leading them away from the stall to indefinitely shut down any further sales pitches. "Mmm. Boy, some people have no sense of bound-" Golden locks shook with disbelief as Adrien looking over his shoulder at the man who still appeared rather stunned upon realizing the amount that had been given to him. Silence felt sealed over the pair as Marinette shook gently in his arms.

"I'm sorry I..." her eyes darted around before settling on the floor, utterly at a loss for what to say. Swallowing he realized with a heavy heart she felt bad for the kiss and leaving and probably felt getting mixed up with the salesman was her fault too. "Dont appologize.. I didn't mind any of it.. Not even the kiss.. How do I say that without making her relive it all?"

"He's right. That color looks good on you..." Adrien interjected into her apology, holding her hand and placing the lipgloss container in her palm before closing her fingers around it gently. He wouldn't bring up the kiss. He wouldn't ask why she ran. He wont scold her for not just pushing past the salesman. In this moment Marinette seemed so fragile, he just wanted to hold her and stroke her head, but even that felt like it might shatter this silent and sensitive girl.

"Ah! This must be the stall!" Attempting to shake her from her delicate state, Adrien ushered her over to the neighboring stall, spotting the very thing they had come here to purchase. After paying the clerk and sending a shooting off a text to his chauffeur they were ready to depart, his companion still silent as the grave. What was it that was troubling her so? If he only knew exactly what was weighing on her so heavily he might be able to make light of that atleast.

The concerned adolescent couldn't help but steal worried glances in her direction on the ride home, trying his best to think of something to soothe her inner turmoil.

"Adrien...about earlier: when I...then I..." Marinette started weakly, twisting and wringing her hands, her focus nailed to her knees. "So it was the kiss on the cheek... "

The car stopped just outside her bakery as the poor thing heaved a deep sigh. Seeing his usual bubbly and off beat classmate like this was too painful to go unaddressed. Gripping her wrist gently, Adrien leaned over to press his lips against her cheek suddenly. "Now we're even... Cheer up okay?"

Flopping onto her bed, Marinette stared blankly up at the ceiling, Tikki soon floating into view above her. "You okay?.." the little god asked, a note of concern in her voice.

"I...I'm not sure." Her reply was fair steady, cracking an awkward smile. The addled teen began to mentally replay all the wonderful and horrible things that happened today over and over in sporadic flashes.

"Well you've been through a lot today." Tikki said, settling on her partner's abdomen gently with a consoling look.

"Yup. I kissed Adrien's cheek...then ran." her voice was a few pitches higher by the end of the sentence.

"And he kissed yours back." The playful creature reminded her with a wink. Marinette's body surged with exhilaration, flipping over as Tikki flew a safe distance. Burying her face in body of her cat pillow, she proceeded to scream excitedly with all her might, flailing her legs with enough passion her shoes flew off.

"Everything okay sweety?" Her mother's voice echoed from the stairway.

"Y-yeah mom! Everything's perfect!" she replied swiftly before hugging her pillow to her chest. "Just perfect.." Repeating it to herself this time for reassurance while grinning at the cheerful red figure who seemed equally as pleased for her friend. Marinette reached into her pocket, shutting her eyes tight while her hands retrieved a small decorated cylinder, holding it overhead. Opening one eye slowly, she peeked up at the container of sparkling red liquid that looked and felt to her like love in a small tube.

The giddy herione felt her chest tighten again, inserting another spirited screech into her cat plush before sitting to give the container her full attention. "Adrien bought me lipgloss. Its a really expensive brand too...ooooh Tikki, I feel so guilty but soooooo... wonderful. Am I a bad person?"

Laughing the lucky bug pressed her cheek to her chosen's before nuzzling gently. "Of course not! He wouldn't have gotten it for you if so!"

Marinette considered Tikki's input for a moment before falling onto her back again. "Yeah, but its kinda like...like I made him do it. Like if I had just told the salesman I wasn't interested..."

Tiny scarlet hands pressed to partner's mouth, shaking her head. "Don't overthink it. Just be grateful."

Marinette nodded, hugging the gloss to her chest as she reached for her diary to finish recording today's events. With the shower out of this way from lunch's events she changed into her pajamas as she slid under her crisp sheets, not even the slightest bit drowsy.

Some how she had managed to coast through dinner absentmindedly, despite her parents prodding for details about "-how your day was?" Yet now that she lay in bed every nerve in her body was tingling with renewed intensity each time she recollected Adrien's tender kiss upon her cheek. Hugging the covers close as Tikki snuggled up, Marinette doubted if she'd be able to dream a better dream tonight, let alone fall asleep.

Gingerly pressing two fingers where his mouth had touched, she sighed affectionately as the little god rolled over, patting her chin. "I know you're enjoying yourself, but you need to get to sleep for Alya's party tomorrow. You'll see him then." Closing her eyes and cuddling with her beloved kwami, Marinette agreed, settling into one of the most satisfying slumbers she'd had in ages.

The optimistic girl awoke with the sun feeling, refreshed and supercharged. Despite her abundance of energy she carefully crept from under the covers as not to disturb the little bundle of red still asleep beside her pillow. Today was Alya's party, and Marinette had a second gift prepared for the Ladyblog's host."A visit from her favorite super heroine will surely make this Alya's best party yet." Marinette told her mirror confidently, striking a very herioc pose in her pajamas before laughing softly and getting changed into her usual wear.

She took the morning to assist around the bakery, helping her nosy parents get ahead for the day before finally returning up to her room to check on Tikki. Her little bug had found the fresh biscuits and jam spread Marinette had left on her desk for breakfast, sitting on the edge she was finishing up the last few bites with delight. "Morning Marinette. Ready to surprise Alya?" Tikki chirped before flying up and stretching.

Marinette nodded, pressing her hands together as she bowed her head. "Thanks for letting me do this Tikki, even though its not for an akuma attack."

A little ruby head shook as she smiled down at her chosen cheerfully. "Of course Marinette. I'll always be here for you. Even for things like this on occasion." Hugging her little friend in response, she straightened abruptly before taking a deep breath.

"Alright Tikki. Spots on!"

"Come on, Plagg hurry up. I don't want to be late." Adrien called, combing through his hair in the bathroom before peeking out at the little black kwami who was taking its time with a large piece of camembert. "

"Don't ruuuuuuush me. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!" The feeding feline complained, his mouth full of cheese.

"Then we'll take it to go. Side note; its almost noon." The boy retorted skeptically, plucking the remaining piece from his little black paws before tucking it in his shirt pocket.

"What's your hurry?! The party lasts a few hours. You don't have to show up EXACTLY when it starts." Plagg huffed, diving head first into the pocket after the pilfered cube. He couldn't exactly explain it either, but Adrien definitely felt more...anxious...to attend than he did yesterday.

Strolling over to the couch facing the window to grab the wrapped parcel, a flash of red caught his curious green eyes. "Was that-?" Pressing his forehead to the glass, he squinted to capture a second look of the mysterious blur.

"Was what?" The black god asked, peeking his head out from the pocket before finishing the last bite of cheese with satisfaction.

Adrien's eyes lit up, spotting a secondary glimpse of what he was now sure was his beloved Ladybug swinging from roof to roof with her signature agility and grace. "Is there an akuma on the loose?" Wondering aloud he glanced down at Plagg, who shrugged in response.

"I don't sense any danger..."

As the cocky hero began to strike his usual pose, his partner rolled his eyes, licking at the remaining flavor on his paws. "Not worth risking it, I guess. Plagg, CLAWS OUT!" Scarcely a minute after sighting his spotted companion he found himself on her tail.

"Good afternoon M'lady. What are we up against today?" His voice echoed across through the crisp fall air, landing on the rooftop across from her as she made ready to cast her yoyo toward another chimney. Ladybug froze in response, turning her head to give a quizzical glare at the unexpected company. "If she's not expecting me that means this isn't serious."

"Chat? What are you-?" The herione began before shaking her head and turning to face him, placing a hand on her hip with an expression that was hard to read. "Happy to see me? Not happy to see me? Which is it Bugaboo?" The slits roamed her taut stance with interest, crossing his arms with a catty smirk.

"I just decided to be proactive today and patrol a little." Her response sounded half-hearted as Chat quickly performed a triple flip, landing at her side with a wink. "Ah, ever the devout patriot of justice, Bugaboo. Allow me to accompany you then?" he finished with a bow, glancing up to give her shoot her a flirtatious wink.

Her usual eye roll accompanied with a smile conveyed she had accepted his offer before taking off toward the next building. "Keep up then kitty!" Playful voice rang out, only increasing the size of his pupils and cheshire grin.

"I'll never leave you wanting..." His reply came out low and seductive as he licked his lips, indifferent as to if she could hear him or not. Dashing forward he leapt deftly from roof to roof just a moments after his prey.

It wasn't long till they found themselves short of buildings to scale, the public park stretched before them. "The very same park Alya's birthday party is at.." Eyeing the other guests as they made their way in toward the set up, he noted Alya herself greeting their classmates upon arrival. "Plagg is right, it lasts for several hours. I can show up later." The leather clad figure assured himself, turning his attention back toward his partner to see where she'd lead them next.

Watching silently as she hooked her yoyo to the statue centered in the park before launching forward prompting him to tilt his head slightly. "Uh." Intrigue took hold of him as he extended his baton, letting it carry him high enough before tilting it forward to land at her side in the middle of the festivities. "What are you up to m'Lady? This isn't like you.." Ever the observer he studied her casual stroll amungst the guests, questioning them about anything they may have seen or heard out of the ordinary as if she were a common officer.

"Oh my GOSH LADYBUG!" The guest of honor cried, waving her arms frantically. "At MY party!" it was hardly a millisecond before the exhilerated brunette had her phone out recording the "surprise" appearance of the dynamic duo, Chat smiling playfully for the camera.

"Oh I'm sorry, am I interrupting? " The spotted heroine asked, tucking one leg behind the other in what her partner immediately recognized as a false apology.

"No no no no! I'm so excited you're here! C-can you autograph my new phone case for me? Shoot! I wish Marinette were here to see this! She's always missing the important stuff." The stylus/pen flew from her case as she turned off the recording for a moment to hold it out toward her idol upon which was done with a bit too much energy, poking Ladybug's cheek with the tip on accident. "Oops, I'm sorry I-" Frantic appologies were abruptly cut short as Ladybug took the phone and pen, signing the back with a graceful scrawl before returning it.

"No worries. And it's the least I could do after dropping by unexpectedly." A playful wink had the brunette's head spinning with jubilation while other guests had gathered around, asking for both hero's autograph on various items as well as inquiring to their appearance suddenly. "Just out on patrol! Paris' safety is my number one priority." Ladybug reply was confident and assuring as if there was a news crew and everything before her.

Chat was skeptical to say the least, but if his lady had a reason to be there she didn't want to share he wasn't going to pry. It was very rare he got to spend time with his beloved outside fighting Hawkmoth's henchmen as is. "Perhaps we might even do this regularly? Perhaps it could be a date. " Without lingering much longer they bid the guests good-bye on the excuse of having to continue patrol. "So you care about the Ladyblog a lot then? Or just the girl?" Curious slits traced her figure as they leapt from roof to roof.

"That was mighty puuuurrculiar of you M'Lady." The catty hero decided a playful comment couldnt hurt once they were a fair distance away.

His target turned to face him, crossing her arms defensively."A favorable public opinion never hurt."

It was obvious to both parties even she wasn't convinced by her own retort. A mischevious smirk spread across confident lips as he closed the distance between them, wrapping one arm around her waist, the other cupping her chin. "Why LB, you seem to have acquired another spot." Chuckling softly Chat proceeded to lick his thumb, gently wiping at the black spot left previously by Alya's pen upon a soft porcelain cheek.

To his amusement, it only ended up smearing it more than removing it to which he was not given time to fix before she freed herself from his advances. "Thanks kitty, but paws off. No more patrol for today." Ladybug finished, dropping down and signaling she was departing.

"Always so mysterious." The feline sighed, a bittersweet smile replacing his confident expression. With a longing glance in her direction he turned back toward the park, stretching his arms before taking off. "Hope to see you again soon."