Plot Orphans:

Here is the filing away space for my odd little ideas and one offs. None will be fully fleshed, but I did write out some of the key scenes – or at least I quickly came up with a pared down scene. Perhaps using common cliches to expedite the process. As this is fanfiction, it goes without saying that I do not own the source canon. But these ideas are up for adoption.

If you adopt an idea and write it in your own voice, merely acknowledge that the idea was adopted from me. Optionally, point your readers to the relevant chapter you adopted it from.

If you simply outright copy word for word any section or scene, or some such, then credit me and point readers to the relevant chapter.

www. fanfiction . net s/12585933/9/The-Orphanage

There are quite a few arranged marriage fics already in the Miraculous fandom. This idea actually grew from one a bit different, one inspired by Innortals "I Do" Neon Genesis Evangelion fanfic. And I was contemplating how to get a fake, school 'marriage' assignment to accidentally become a real thing. But there wasn't much that made sense, and the few avenues would have been a good crack fic but nothing special. (Instead, maybe you ought to read the very well written crack fic, "I Do" in which Shinji gets married to Rei and Asuka tries to 'save him from 'the Doll'.)

But then, I got to thinking, thanks to another ML fanfic that has Marinette surprised by an unwanted arranged marriage, hey - let's have Gabriel notice a chance to acquire / merge with an important Chinese silk producer / supplier but their terms includes tying the families involved through matrimony. He offers his son - and lo and behold they happen to have an eligible, somewhat distant somewhat close, relative in Paris. Que a bunch of old Chinese men showing up at 12 Rue Gotlib. Que Adrien offering his services to translate, again. Que Adrien finding out from the Chinese guys that his dad is thinking of marrying him off. (At the moment, the Chinese guys are just seeing if Marinette would be interested - and she would have told them to give her a few days to come to a decision, they would have relayed that back to Gabriel who then takes the time to actually be a somewhat decent father and warn his son to see if he's willing to try, yadda yadda. Oh, and Ladybug having a heart to heart with Cat Noir about whether she should get married or not). And a bunch of other scenes (like, say, the news breaking and their whole class staring at them) such as them trying to explain they may be married on paper, but they still live in separate homes and are easing into things.

But, then, I said to myself, "Hey, yeah you. What if this whole thing went down BEFORE canon origins? What if they had gotten married first, then the whole school and superhero plot kicks in? So now they are navigating underaged, blind marriages alongside saving Paris and trying to be normal teenagers. Well, normal just went out the window, taking boring life and peaceful times with it on a joyride. So, what follows is my attempt at marrying the two off first, THEN letting them become the saviors of Paris.

Chapter Nine

Miraculous Ladybug

The Business Proposal

Summary: What if Adrien and Marinette had met before he had started school, before they had received their Miraculouses? What if they had met because of a fluke of fate, a business merger that required a merging of families via an arranged marriage.

Summer break was going strong, with still three weeks left before the start of school. And while Marinette knew some kids from school, she wasn't close to any. So she was spending most of her free time designing and sewing clothes. Some just to incorporate some new technique she wanted to master. Others, because she was inspired and wanted to make something fabulous. She was currently in her room knitting. She had come across a book at the local craft store themed to the topic of sexy and intimate knits. And while she knew she wasn't going to actually wear such any time soon, she was still a girl and a romantic at heart. The thought of having a few 'dirty, little secrets' type clothing excited her, even if they were likely to remain buried deep in her dresser drawers. As she was coming upon a stretch of yarn overs and cabling, her mother poked her head into her room.

"Marinette, dear?" Sabine seemed upset. "Would you mind coming downstairs for a bit. I'd like to talk to you."

Marinette became a touch paranoid at the tone in her mother's voice, trying to remember if she had done something wrong that day. Maybe she hadn't hidden her new book purchase as good as she thought she had? Or the shapeless patch of knitting in her hand was more obvious than she thought? "Sure, Mom. I'll be right down. Just let me mark my place in this pattern." Blushing, she then penciled herself a note on a scrap paper and set her needles aside before following her mother down.

Marinette eyed her parents, they seemed solemn and it was making her uncomfortable. "So ... What's up?"

Her mother shared a look with her father. He smiled and wrapped an arm around Sabine in a show of support. He then looked over at Marinette. "Remember, you can always say no. In fact, I endorse it. I am fully on Team No." Sabine nudged Tom in the ribs with her elbow.

Her mother then cleared her throat. "Some of my family will be visiting from China. They're flying in later tonight." Sabine had been born in France, to Chinese immigrants, but the rest of her family were still to be found in their ancestral homeland.

"That's good, right? Why are you so worried?"

Sabine gave Marinette a sad look. "It's more of a business trip."

"Ooh-Kaaay ... What am I missing?"

"Well, you see -" Sabine faltered for a moment. "Let me go back a bit. You remember how I told how your grandma and grandpa had moved from China looking for a better life? How he was a chef and wanted to study French cuisine, and brought his newlywed bride with him. A girl he was in love with since childhood and all."

Marinette nodded. "And his baby brother, your Uncle Wang, is also a chef. Very well known."

Sabine nodded. It always pained her to think how Marinette would never get to know her grandparents as they died in a car crash before she had been born. "I know it sounds like you came from a family of cooks. Which is true, just not the whole truth. My father's father was second born, so his family didn't have a duty to take over the family business. That fell to my grandfather's brother, which would make him your great-grand-uncle. He had had a daughter, who became unable to have children as a result of an accident. The ownership of the company rests in her hands, and she is getting on in years. A lot of family still run it though, my distant cousins and such. Mostly family through marriages of the women."

"Right," Marinette was getting into the story. Forgetting there was a point that led to why her mom seemed so distressed. "What sort of business is it? Are they rice farmers or something?"

Sabine chuckled and shook her head. "You really need to learn more about China, dear. No, they run a silkworm plantation and supply silk threads and fabric."

Marinette smiled. "Ooh. I would love to get to work with silk more. I did hand stitch Dad that necktie, once."

Sabine and Tom shared another look. He cleared his throat. "We might be getting a bit off topic, sweety."

"What was the topic?" Marinette raised an eyebrow at her parents' strange behavior.

Sabine sighed. "So, our family runs a silk business. One that employs not just a lot of family members, but a lot of people in general. And that the inheritance of it is up in the air. Now, it's pretty normal, in business, for different companies to propose mergers. Or to buy another out completely. And for our family business, that can be good news."

"Oh! I see. They're coming into town to talk business with someone who wants to buy them out?"

Sabine nodded. "Yes. A famous, local French fashion designer wants to buy the company. At least enough of it to give his own an advantage."

"That sounds like great news ... no wait, is it horrible news because he'll be a horrible boss or something?"

Sabine chuckled. "The downside is that the business has belonged to the family for generations. And it would have continued to be so if a proper heir was willing to take it over. One that can provide future children to pass it on to. My father would have had priority on claim, which falls upon us. Or, more accurately, you."

Marinette stilled, her mouth dropped open as her body froze in her seat. "Wait ... they don't want to drag me back to China to run some business? Do they? Because I don't know how, and I can't even speak the language, and I would ruin everything, and then the workers would riot, and the factory would be burned to the ground and all the silk moths trampled upon, and everyone would throw egg at my face and say horrid things in Chinese, but I wouldn't know what they were saying to me because I don't speak Chinese." Marinette paused her ramble to take a deep breath before ranting more.

Sabine knew that was an opportune time to break the rant. "Honey, they're not looking for you to run it, per say, just yet."

"Oh?" Marinette frowned. "I'm not going to like this, am I? Unless I'm getting money from the deal, I might like that."

Sabine shook her head, bemused. "They don't mind securing the business future by entering a merger or partnership with a big named fashion house. But many does wish the family could still be a part of it somehow. It's really important. But you have never met your family, so it's hard for you to understand how important. And, they're still old fashion enough to do business the old way ... Partnerships being sealed in marriage."

"Remember, I endorse saying no," Tom broke in.

Marinette blinked ... blinked again. "Are you trying to say ... they want me to get married? To some old fashion house dude?" Marinette frowned. She did want to get into that industry and be a designer. Yet, she didn't want to marry some old creep to do so.

"Er," Sabine choked. She looked to her husband. He shrugged. "Well ... I don't know any of the details. I think they are just hoping you would be open to the idea. I guess they want our families to meet. Us and the Agreste family-"

"Agreste!" Marinette squealed. "That's like, my most favorite brand. I absolutely adore the designs they come out with."

"Yeah, so ... they just want us to meet and see if, maybe, you could keep the business in the family, or at least the family in the business, and represent them and all. I think he has a son, or something."

Tom nodded and smiled at his little angel. "Remember, 'No!' is a great response to most things in life. Especially arranged marriage proposals." Sabine elbowed him again.


"Your father wants to see you." Nathalie, his father's assistant, appeared as well poised as ever. Adrien, though, thought he could sense something off. He was done with his Chinese lessons - when you're home schooled, there's little by way of summer break, especially when his father wants him to be an overachiever. Adrien was on his way from where he met with his tutor, in a little study, to his bedroom to relax before fencing lessons begun when she had found him.

"Oh? Is everything alright? Is this about me wanting to go to public school?"

"Come this way," was her response. But her lips dipped into the smallest of frowns, and she did not walk as quickly and efficiently as she normally would. "You don't want to keep your father waiting." Adrien followed obediently, curious to what reason he was being called before his father.

Adrien was led to his father's home office. He knocked on the door and waited to be called in. Upon entering, he found his father by a large window staring out, hands clasped behind his back. "Sit down, Adrien."

Adrien nodded, though his father couldn't see that, and took a seat. He waited for his father to speak, and when the silence began to stretch awkwardly, cleared his throat.

"Adrien?" His father stated in a firm, even voice as he spun from the window and faced his son. "There is no easy way to say this. I have considered how I might. Should I explain the business aspects? Describe the future you would be securing for not only Gabriel's but also yourself? Perhaps I ought to open with a bargain, by offering you something you want in trade? Is it enough to merely tell you your duties and expect you to meet them? Most seem adequate. But I can't help but think about what your mother would have to say about this." Gabriel drifted off into thought, as if he was trying to figure just what his wife would have to say.

"About what, sir?"

Gabriel sighed then joined his son in sitting down, taking his seat behind his desk. He had a folder open on his desk; Adrien could see it was written in Chinese and seemed to relate to a silk supplier. "Son, tell me. How do you feel about girls?"

"Huh?" Adrien had never expected to hear such a question from his father. "Well, I like them just fine."

Gabriel nodded his head and made humming noises. "Right ... so, I guess business it is then. You know I pride in providing the very best to my customers. If it isn't perfect, it's not a Gabriel's design."

"Yes, Father."

"Some day, you may learn just how critical the textiles commodities market is. One can't merely call up any old mill and order up a bunch of cloth. One must be constantly looking ahead, predicting both the markets for fashion and for fabric, for everything hinges on the availability of raw material. This is true of any fine goods industry. One must be well versed in financial instruments like options and futures, to protect against potential erratic market movements. Procurement is the lifeblood of my company; it is a necessary evil. As much as I want to spend all my time in the studio with nothing more than some needle and thread, I do have to spend much time behind a desk ensuring all aspects of my business is accounted for."

Adrien nodded his head. Not really sure where his father was going with his speech, but assuming that maybe he was being given a summer job to learn the ropes.

"One time-proven manner in which a company can help secure a steady supply of material in such a way as to protect against market fluctuations is to simply own the supply. I have come upon a remarkable opportunity to procure one of the world's leading Chinese silk manufacturers. They consistently put out quality. They have employees that are remarkably loyal. Management is smart and knowledgeable. While it has grown much, they still treat it as the family business it started as generations ago."

Adrien nodded some more, wondering if the point was an opportunity to practice his Chinese lessons. "Are we going to China, soon? So you can meet with this company?"

Gabriel shook their head. "They're actually coming here, to Paris. Seems they have family in town."

Adrien smiled and nodded his head. "How fortunate."

"Yes, fortunate indeed." Gabriel pursed his lips and studied Adrien through lidded eyes. Adrien sat up straighter, growing a bit nervous under the scrutiny. "I believe you wanted to go to school."

Adrien's smile faded. Confused he replied, "Yes."

"I need your help with something concerning this upcoming business merger. Aid me, and I may be willing to permit you to attend public schooling."

Adrien blinked. "Would you like me to act as translator? I was under the impression you knew Chinese."

Gabriel's lips twitched. "I had another task in mind."

Adrien sat there for a moment. "What task would that be?"

"The family with whom I'll be dealing with are old fashioned in their approach to business. There is also a legitimate desire to maintain some sort of family involvement in the business. I fully intend to let them run the operations as they always have. My plate being full enough as it is. But I do understand their concern. I feel the same when it comes to my own business; how nice it would be for it to remain in the Agreste family. And there is a way we all can achieve our goals."

Adrien frowned. "Are you marrying someone just for business? So soon after Mother?" His cheeks grew red with anger.

"Do not be so silly and presumptuous, son," Gabriel scolded. Adrien calmed down. "You will be the one marrying."

Adrien grew gobsmacked. "To some old lady from China I never met?"

"That's enough, Adrien. Do you really think I would make such a ludicrous deal? They assure me they have a heir that is about your age. As for school, you may attend school with her to get to know her better. You'll be meeting her soon. I expect you to make only the best of impressions."

Adrien frowned. "She's expected to move to a foreign country? Does she even know French?"

"Certainly, seeing as she's the family they are visiting while in town."


Marinette fretted the day away. On the one hand, she was excited as it seemed like she might get to meet Gabriel Agreste. On the other hand, the thought of marrying some stranger tied her guts into knots. If it was simple, she could just say no. "How can I say 'no'? How?" she said to herself, out loud. "Sounds like all the hopes and dreams of my family is riding on me." She then frowned. "A family I never met." Marinette sighed. She felt intimidated, by the burden of expectation placed upon her. "If I marry, my family gets to keep their silk farm. It passes on to me and my children. I like fashion, but I don't even know how to run a business. I'm not even sure I want to run this one. But, everyone is counting on me. They'll get to keep their jobs. I can protect them. What should I do?" It was times like these she wished she had someone to advise her.

Bored, she googled "Gabriel Agreste's son" and found out he was a model - she actually seen some of his ads before. Marinette thought he looked cute, but was curious about what sort of person he was. After some more time, Marinette decided to get dressed to meet her family.

By early evening, her mother came up to her room as Marinette looked herself over in the mirror. "Honey? It's time to go to the airport. Come on, they're all hoping to meet you."

Marinette gave one last look at the formal clothes she was in. She looked at her mom, groaned then smiled. "Do you think they'll like me?"

"They'll love you."

Marinette climbed into the back of her parents car, her dad was driving. At the airport, they waited by the baggage claim. Tom held a sign that said "Dupain-Cheng" in Chinese, written by Sabine. There was a large group of Chinese tourists milling about, a plane having just disembarked its passengers, and finally a trio of Chinese people in business suits and a chef approached them. Marinette's gaze was drawn first to the large man wearing a chef's outfit and hat. Sabine threw himself at him. "Uncle Wang!" she cried in Chinese.

The chef enveloped her in a big hug. They conversed briefly in Chinese.

"What are you doing here?" Sabine asked him.

"When I heard the news, I volunteered to come along. Mostly in hopes of being a voice for reason and saving your child from such foolishness. But also for the honor of cooking for the bride if that is the outcome. Perhaps my soup can be a bright spot in such an unromantic day."

Sabine chuckled. "I wouldn't make her go through with it. But we can't refuse until we at least meet the other family."

Wang grumbled. "Most of them already consider it a done deal. Probably won't take no for an answer. I would be surprised that this Frenchman is considering it, except, receiving a company as part of a dowry is certainly cheaper than having to actually buy it. To use his own child in such a way. Distasteful."

Sabine nodded. "If that is true, than all the more reason to give the poor dear an escape."

"If the fruit has fallen far from the tree," Wang whispered. "Come, I see the others are practically eyeing your girl like a fish in the market."

Marinette, meanwhile, was trying to bow and shake hands and mostly speaking gibberish as she met with an old lady and a couple not as old men. Her mom returned to her side with the large chef in tow. "Marinette, this is your grand-uncle, Sifu Cheng Wang. He's a great chef back home." She then spoke something in Chinese to the man, but Marinette could pick out her name being mentioned. The large chef bowed and held his hand out for a shake.

Soon after, with her mom translating, she got to meet her more distant relations. The woman was the current heir and owner of the business. The two men were her legal advisers and an even more distant relation. They had all spent their life in service to Cheng Silks. Not long after, everyone was climbing into cars. Marinette's relatives getting into a rented limo provided by Gabriel Agreste, but Wang joined Marinette in the back seat of her parents' car. Then off they went to a fine restaurant, tab once more picked up by Gabriel.

Wang seemed to be the quiet type, and Marinette did not speak any Chinese anyways, so they rode in silence. But he did pat her head affectionately. At the restaurant, everyone broke into spirited Chinese, leaving Tom and Marinette to converse among themselves in French. They were times where her mother would ask her a question, but Marinette suspected Sabine fielded most of them for her.

Finally, after being out late, Marinette got to drop herself into bed. Next thing she knew, it was the next day and she had to get ready to meet her future husband.


Adrien was in bed, trying to find some sleep. His thought turned, unbidden, to his upcoming nuptials. He was cold on the whole idea. Upset that his father would even consider it. "In this day and age? Selling out his son just to get cheaper silk." He moped. He brooded. But mostly, he wondered what the girl was like. Did she feel as pressured as he did? What did she think of this? Only really knowing Chloe, as a point of reference, he was afraid that the unknown, rich Chinese girl was just as self-centered and abrasive. He was sure he did not want to be married to such. "I hope she's nice." One thing Adrien was sure about, he had no choice in the matter. His father wasn't going to let him say no. He did feel a bit guilty that there was a small sense of relief: if his new wife takes over the Agreste empire, then he would be free to pursue his own dreams.

Another thing that Adrien was also sure about was that he really needed someone to talk to, someone who could listen and advise him, a friend.

The next day found him dressing his best. Most of his lessons were canceled so he could be free that day. He was going to meet his new wife at lunch. They would be coming over to the house, more privacy that way. Adrien suspected that most of the time would be his father brokering details of the merger. "Probably argue for two hours over if it should be Agreste-Cheng or Cheng-Agreste Silks," he griped. Which meant he was to entertain his fiancèe, try to find common ground, and ensure the arranged wedding during that time his father was too busy otherwise.

"What am I going to talk about? I don't know anything about silks and I doubt she likes Ultimate Mecha Strike III. Chloe never plays video games." He looked around the room, wondering what it would be like sharing it with a wife. Then, a sobering thought hit him. Adrien imagined bringing a wife into the sterile Agreste household and he felt bad. "She'll be trapped in this awful place. A loveless marriage in a loveless house. A tool to my father's ambitions." He felt sorry for the nameless, faceless girl; more so than he felt for himself. "No one deserves that." And he felt guilty; He would be the one damning her to such an existence. He was tempted to throw himself on his bed and cry, but he knew he couldn't have a single hair out of place. "I'm sorry," he whispered to the air, "so, so sorry."


Marinette ducked into the stretch limo that Gabriel had sent. Her foreign relatives were already inside and her parents were piling in right behind her. She ended up sandwiched between her father and her great uncle Wang. Tom ducked his head and brought a hand up to shield his mouth and his daughter's ear. "Remember," he whispered softly, "Team No."

The young bride-to-be was wearing a mind boggingly expensive, Chinese designer outfit, made entirely from silk fabric supplied by the family business. Marinette had wanted to wear one of her own designs, but her relatives had brought it as a gift and had expressed a firm desire that she wore it for meeting her husband. It wasn't just the fashionable and modest clothing, but also the high end, patent leather shoes, fancy accessories, and the diamond encrusted twenty karat gold necklace, bracelet, and earrings. Marinette was actually surprised, and very relieved, that they hadn't included underwear, as they seemed to have thought of everything else.

The car ride was short; the teen girl was surprised to see how close she lived to her idol. "Wow," she whispered when she realized the beautiful mansion she always had seen in passing was the same one whose gates the car was passing through.

Adrien stood where he could see the front yard through a window and watched as a limousine pulled in. It's occupants spilled out; one was a young girl in very expensive clothing. Adrien might had thought she was another Chloe had she not looked so nervous. The hunch of her shoulders, the way she held her arms in front of her chest - defensively, the manner she alternated looking to her feet and looking to a pair of older people for reassurance, and the way she had eyed the closed gate all spoke of someone much less sure of themselves than Chloe would ever be. A trio of elderly Chinese folks fussed over her as a younger Chinese man, woman, and a French man stood back and frowned at the fuss. Adrien's heart went out to that poor girl with the "deer in headlights" expression. He figured she was likely as thrown into the thick of things as he was, but by people from another country who intimidated her. Which he felt was worse off than himself, who only had to put up with a father who pretty much always treated him in such a manner.

He waited for the Nathalie to answer the door and announce the visitors, and then one further beat so his Father would be the first to arrive. He timed it well, entering just behind his father, who had greeted his guest in Chinese. Adrien could see the French man and the young girl were both lost but politely smiled.

His father then gestured gracefully towards him and, continuing in Chinese, introduced, "And here is my son, Adrien."

Adrien bowed, speaking in Mandarin he said, "It is a great honor to meet you."

The Chengs bowed and replied, "The honor is all ours." Meanwhile, Marinette and her parents stood back, watching the formalities be conducted.

"Perhaps," Gabriel suggested as he gestured towards his office, "you would like to work out details of the merger?"

"We would be pleased to go over such a matter. But there are those of us not privy to business matter."

Gabriel nodded. "Adrien will entertain them." He then looked over to his son and switched to French, to Marinette's relief, "Please see to the needs of our guest. I'll have some refreshment sent up from the kitchen."

The Cheng matriarch said something to Wang and Sabine and both nodded. Those in the silk business began to follow Gabriel to his office. Marinette was mid-step when her mother placed a gentle hand on her arm. "We should follow Adrien. They'll be talking business and we've been excused."

"If you could please follow me," Adrien spoke in French as he noted Sabine had explained to Marinette in French and surmised the girl didn't speak Chinese. He led them into the dining room. "We can relax here, while waiting on refreshments. Please, make yourself comfortable."

"Thank you," Sabine politely stated with a warm smile. "I'm Sabine Cheng, this is my husband, Tom Dupain. I'd like to introduce me daughter-"

"Marinette Dupain-Cheng," Marinette interrupted, giving a small curtsy.

Sabine smiled at her daughter. She then gestured to her uncle. "And this is my Uncle, Sifu Cheng. He's a chef and came from China for moral support."

Adrien smiled at everyone. He repeated his introduction in French for the benefit of father and daughter. "I'm Adrien Agreste. And I apologize now for what will likely be an awkward day."

A servant had entered and cleared her throat. "May I offer anyone a drink? We have milk, juice, tea, coffee, water, and a selection of wines." Once she took the orders, she left.

"Wow, this is a really nice place." Tom felt a bit out of place.

"Tell me a little about where you live," Adrien tried breaking the ice with Marinette.

Marinette blushed. "My folks are bakers, so we live over the bakery."

"Oh? And do you bake too?"

Marinette bit her lip, too shy to mention she wanted to be a fashion designer. 'It's awkward, right?' she thought to herself. 'It looks like I'm just marrying to get a job.'

"She helps out a little bit, mostly at the front counter," Tom explained.

Sabine smiled proudly. "She rather be sewing or making art."


There was still time before lunch, and it seemed like the business meeting wasn't going to be ending right away, so Adrien decided to give a small tour of the house. He was mostly trying to put the girl at ease. 'Nothing like Chloe at all,' he thought to himself. He was ashamed to feel a bit of relief at the thought. He showed them the grounds, then through some of the of interior: an atrium, the library, and now he was directing them to his room.

"And this is where I sleep," he mentioned as he opened the door to his room. He showed them in.

"Wow," Tom exclaimed.

Sabine nodded her head in agreement. "It's like an apartment."

"It's bigger than the apartment I had when in cooking school."

Wang looked at his trophies and asked him something in Chinese. "What did you get these for?"

"Fencing," Adrien replied in Chinese.

Sabine translated for Marinette's sake. "Those are his trophies from fencing."

"Nice computer. What games you got?" Tom said with a low whistle.

"Thanks! It's my connection with the rest of the world."

"Oh? What about school?" Sabine's motherly tone wasn't lost on Adrien.

He shrugged. "I'm home schooled. Though I have been asking if I could go to regular school. I'd like to make some friends."

Sabine nodded. "Do you know what school?"

Adrien shook his head. "Father said he'd permit it if I accepted the marriage." Adrien wasn't watching any of them, flipping through his folder of game DVDs. "Said I could get to know my wife better. So I guess it's what ever school you go to." He turned his head to shoot a bright smile at Marinette.

"I ... ah ... go to Francois Dupont. It's right next to my home, actually."

Adrien hummed as he nodded his head. "That sounds very convenient. I rather envy you." Then he held a game disc aloft in triumph. "Ah ha! Ultimate Mecha Strike III. Shall we?"

Tom grew a devious smirk. "You know. I think it's traditional for the father of the bride to lay a challenge to ensure the worthiness of the suitor. How good do you think you're are at that game?"

Adrien scratched his head as he pursed his lips in thought. "Are you saying if I beat you I can marry your daughter? Seems rather old fashioned, shouldn't it be her decision?"

Tom gave him an evil smile. "No, no, no. You have to beat my daughter at that game."

Marinette giggled as her mom smacked her father on the arm, saying, "Hush you, no trouble making."

Adrien gave Marinette a happy smile. "So you play, then? That's awesome! Now we have something to talk about. What's your favorite bot to use?"

"I have played all of them, though am best at a handful. Mostly as Dad keeps making me play with random picks."

"Hey," Tom said with mock affront, "I have to do something to get a fighting chance in."

Marinette giggled. "But my preference is LB-01."

Adrien nodded. "CN-01, myself. Wanna play?" Adrien booted up his computer as he waited for her reply.

"Yeah, I do."


A couple hours later, and many fun rounds of Adrien, Marinette, and Tom playing the game in different combinations and teams, a servant had came to fetch them for lunch. Lunch was a stiff, formal affair; it was all the more so after the liveliness of hanging out in Adrien's room. Marinette noticed how it was liked some switch was flipped inside of him when he entered his father's presence. He became quiet, subservient, and the gleam left his eyes as the smile on his lips became forced.

Marinette herself felt a bundle of nerves. Gabriel and her Chinese relatives spoke only in Chinese; their tone formal and business-like. She was sure her family were considering it a done deal without even bothering to ask her. She also felt Gabriel was of the same mind. And as much as she felt pressured, that so many hopes and dreams of family, family she never knew about but family nevertheless, were riding on her shoulders, when she looked at Adrien, her heart went out to him. He treated the idea as something he couldn't refuse his father on. And that by getting married, he would actually be able to get out of his own house. A house that, for all of it's splendor, seemed so much like a gilded cage. How could she say no when he had so much riding on it?

Marinette hated to be in such a position. But hated it more for the position it put Adrien in. She only knew him for a short while, but he tried hard to make her feel at ease, was nice to her, and hadn't once behaved like a rich brat. 'Nothing like Chloe Bourgeois at all,' she thought with much relief. Chloe being the only example of a rich person Marinette personally knew, and a great example of a spoiled brat.

Marinette was pretty sure she was falling for him, or already had. 'But this is too much too fast. I just wish my life wouldn't have to change so much.' Her face did not betray her troubled thoughts as she ate the delicious food. Being seated, purposefully, by Adrien meant the two held a quiet, polite small talk between courses. But a rather awkward one. 'It wouldn't be so bad if we can be engaged for the next ten years. Maybe we can delay the actual wedding?'

Next to her, Adrien was wondering the same thing.


With Gabriel and the Chengs coming to an amiable agreement, one which hinged upon the children getting married, it was decided to conduct such post-haste. The more business minded pushing to just get the paperwork signed and filed and be done with it. Sabine and her uncle Wang advocated for a more proper ceremony. And so, it was decided to have the wedding ceremony in a weeks time, to give just enough time to get something together. Gabriel offered his mansion as the venue, arguing that himself and those who work for him was sufficient for Adrien's side. Marinette didn't really have anyone she wanted to invite; In fact, she felt a bit like a freak and was hoping to keep it all a secret for as long as she could. Sabine's only family in Paris, at the time, was currently those visiting from China. Tom felt the whole thing a farce and liked the idea of keeping it small and intimate. He did offer to bake the wedding cake while Wang offered to cook the main course. Gabriel's kitchen staff would provide everything else.

Marinette was thinking of designs in he head, for a wedding dress she could affordably make, and was surprised, and touched, when Gabriel offered to give her a dress of her choosing from any of his stores - including having it fitted to her. She would accompany Adrien the following day to go shopping for their wedding clothes and rings. Gabriel would get the flowers, a string quartet to play chamber music, and the decorations. And, in a whirlwind, Marinette's wedding day was planned out. A very overwhelming whirlwind.

"Let's get a breath of fresh air," Adrien offered to her, while the adults milled around and discussed the wedding in a number of small cliques.

Marinette nodded her head. "Yeah, let's." She followed Adrien, and both were accompanied by the driver / bodyguard. Adrien merely stepped out the front door and sat on the top step, patting the spot to his left. She sat there and looked up, though there wasn't much stars to see. Marinette took in a deep breath and slowly released it.

"I'm sorry," Adrien said so softly she almost thought she imagined it.

Marinette glanced at him before looking away. "For what?"

Adrien sighed. "I can't imagine this is how you wanted to get married. To a stranger. As a child bride. So some old people can make money. I'm sorry you had to be dragged into this by my father's uncompromising dedication to his fashion empire. I'm sorry you have to put up with all of this, when I am sure you rather be doing anything else."

Marinette looked back to him, his downcast face as he eyed his shoes was full of abject sorrow. "Hey," she bumped his shoulder with hers, "my family is half to blame as well. I didn't even know I was related to silk merchants until yesterday. I'm just a much a tool in this as you are, a pawn in a game of business chess. So I'm sorry too. And you, this can't be how you wanted to marry. I am sure there's other girls you rather be with."

"Other girls to be with? I'm still figuring out how to make friends! You're cute; I get the feeling a lot of guys are going to hate me."

Marinette blushed. "Not really. I ... don't have anyone like that in my life. Well, maybe Nathaniel. But I don't like him that way."

Adrien grimaced. "Ouch. I can't imagine what's that like. I only really know one girl, and she isn't someone I'd want to date."

"I find that hard to believe You must meet a lot of girls, modeling."

"Meet? Yes." Adrien sighed as he looked to the sky. "Get to know as friends? Not really. I spend my days here, home. Trying to earn my father's approval. I don't even know anyone I'd ask to be my best man."

Marinette shrugged. "I know people, from school ... but none are a best friend. Maybe ... we could be friends? I'm not sure I want to be a wife, just yet."

"Me neither," Adrien nodded. "Er, I mean not being a husband, not a wife." He was pleased when Marinette giggled. "But friends, I would love that."

"I just don't want to change my life. I ... I'm not ashamed, per say, but I don't want to change my name or wear any rings. I don't want people to treat me different. I just want a normal life. You're not upset, are you?"

Adrien smiled. "No. I'm relieved, actually. I totally understand what you mean. I don't even have a normal life. And I hate that you got dragged into it when yours is so much better. Your parents seem so loving. You know lots of people and go to school. What do I have to offer? A cold home and a boring existence. If I could, I'd be a normal kid like you."

"You could do better than being like me. I'm nothing special."

Adrien shook his head. "That's wrong. I was afraid you would be the type to be trying to take advantage. That you were only interested in what money could buy you. That you wanted to flaunt your status as my wife to become more popular. But you're not even trying that. You haven't demanded to invite your whole school. You haven't demanded anything really. You were surprised when father offered you a dress. You even began to refuse when he ignored you and told you what you would be doing. You're nothing like Chloe. That makes you special."

"Chloe?"

"That friend I mentioned."

Marinette grimaced. "Sorry. I'm sure she's nice and all. But I know a Chloe, from school. Wish I didn't. We don't get along. She likes to torment people."

"Oh?" Adrien examined her closer. The sad eyes and down turned mouth. "Well, we'll be going to school together, right. Maybe I can help?"

Marinette rewarded him with a small smile. "Or I can home school with you and avoid her outright?"

Adrien chuckled. "Running away isn't how you solve problems. There will always be Chloes in the world. We can always sic my Chloe on your Chloe and let them try to out Chloe each other."

Marinette giggled. "Why aren't you inviting her? Don't you want a friend to help you through this?"

"Oh, she isn't exactly the moral support kind. And I fear her reaction. Which might embarrass the family in front of yours, which would be my fault. And ... I'm also hoping that people don't find out. She'd gossip it. I know she would. I just want to go to school and be a normal boy. Having my father sell me off for a business deal isn't normal."

Marinette held out her hand, for a shake. "So we agree. We get to be our regular selves and pretend like the marriage never happened. It's just a legal thing."

Adrien shook her hand. "Deal. Except ... you do know that the idea is that we inherit the family businesses and that the business union is through us? They're going to want kids; God I hope they give us, like, twenty years to do that."

Marinette blushed. "I kinda figured. I know we're going to have to face facts, someday. But, for now, I rather pretend you're my new friend and not my blind date husband."

"I can live with that."


The next day flew right by. Marinette found a dress she adored. And she had fun helping Adrien pick out a ring. As his first impulse was to get the one with the largest diamond, she had to tone down his impulse and ground him in practicality. "I just know I'm going to lose it. You must have some kind of safe, Adrien. Maybe you can lock the rings away until after we graduate?"

Adrien laughed. "I can just buy you another."

Marinette shook her head. "Once is enough for spending this kind of money."

After shopping, Adrien successfully convinced his father, who wanted Adrien to spend more time with Marinette anyways, to let him visit Marinette's place since they were dropping her off. The limo pulled up to the bakery and the two got out. After they waved bye to Gabriel, Marinette pointed at the school. "That's my school."

Adrien nodded. "I could meet you in the morning and we could walk together."

Marinette blushed. "Come on, I'll show you the bakery."

When they walked in, Adrien's first reaction was to stop and inhale deeply. All of the scents were heavenly, as he closed his eyes and savored the aroma.

"You never been in a bakery before?"

Adrien's cheeks pinked as he sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck. "I have, but not often."

"Hello Adrien. Hi Marinette. How was your day?" Sabine smiled from the counter. The two kids approached, Adrien with a big smile.

"It was good," he said.

Marinette nodded her head with a smile. "I can't wait to show you the dress. And the ring ... Adrien, show her the ring."

Adrien reached into his pocket and took out a small, blue box. Sabine reached for it and gently peered in. Her breath hitched. "Gorgeous!" She shot her daughter a quizzical look. "Why aren't you wearing it?"

Marinette blushed. "I didn't want to lose it?" She wilted under her mother's amused glare. "Alright. I just didn't want to be seen with it. I'm too young to marry. What would people think?"

Sabine shook her head. "Don't worry about them. Sorry Adrien, my little sweet-roll is being insensitive to your feelings."

"Ma! Don't call me a sweet-roll."

Adrien chuckled. "It's fine. I can understand. It's a lot to digest, so we're going to take it slow and let it sink in on its own."

Sabine smiled. "That's a very adult outlook."

"Thanks, Mom!"

"Why don't you show Adrien where we keep the aprons; it's almost time for out afternoon rush." Sabine's motivation was more than just a need for help. She wasn't comfortable having her daughter be all alone upstairs with a boy they didn't know well but would be marrying Marinette; in case he got ideas. Plus, it would be a good way to get to know him better.


The week flew by, and Marinette's wedding day arrived. She felt like running, like hiding, and like joining the circus would be an excellent life decision. Adrien woke that morning feeling the same way. What he had saw of Marinette, he liked; it felt genuine and not an act put on. But he wasn't ready for marriage. 'I still haven't ever been to a high school ... what do I know about being a husband? About relationships? I'm just a kid, damn it!'

It was early in the morning and he was dressed in a very fine suit - one of his father's designs, of course. He wasn't able to sleep the night before and gave up on trying when the sunlight started to bathe his room in a soft glow. So he got up, showered, and dressed. When he arrived for breakfast, his father was already at the table. Gabriel had shot him a proud look, making Adrien smile. 'I wish Mom was here to see this.'

Being a small affair, the ceremony flew right by. The day was a blur, or so the two teens thought, with everything coming too fast. Gabriel stood by Adrien, best man and witness for signing the marriage contract. Adrien noted that Marinette had her mom as maid of honor. He couldn't help but notice how she blushed and fidgeted. He was pretty much all nerves too. Which only worsened when the officiant told him, "You may now kiss the bride." Adrien blushed and looked to his feet as he tried to think of something to say. His father discreetly elbowed him in the side and cleared his throat. Adrien looked up and saw Marinette looked ready to faint. He gave her a soft smile and gently leaned in to give her a soft kiss on her cheek; as he did so, he could feel her smile.

"Thanks," she whispered into his ear.

"For the first time, I present Mr. and Mrs. Agreste." There was polite applause from the Chinese visitors.

Adrien caught the subtle hand gesture from his father, urging him to move. He took Marinette's hand in his own and together they walked through the group of her family. The plan was they'd go to the atrium, to meet a photographer named Vincent, while the family would go to the dining room for cocktails.


It was the morning of Marinette's first day of school, for the year and as a married teen. And upon waking to the alarm, her first desire was to burrow under her blankets deeper. Her hand reached out from under the covers to silence the alarm on her cell phone. She grumbled as she pulled her phone under the blanket with her.

She could hear her mother call up to her. "Marinette! Your alarm has been going off for fifteen minutes. You're going to be late for your first day back at school."

When Marinette finally stumbled downstairs to the kitchen, ready for school, her mom already had cereal, milk, fruit, and such laid out for her. Marinette yawned and stretched as she sat for breakfast. "Morning, mom." Her voice was depressed.

"Morning, honey. You ready to get back to school?"

Marinette sighed. She was worried. She felt stress over being a teen bride in an arranged marriage. Like, somehow, everyone would know and she'd become an even bigger outcast or such. "Bet you anything, Chloe will be in my class again this year."

"That would make it four years, now? Surely that's not possible."

"Not with my luck," Marinette grumbled.

Sabine gave her a smile, gone unseen as Marinette had her back to her mom. "You'll have Adrien. He's a nice kid, so I'm sure everything will be alright."

"Yeah, but what if after meeting everyone else, he decides he likes them more than me?"

"Aw, honey. You're over-thinking things again. Adrien wants to be your friend. Give him a chance."

After a quick bite of breakfast, Marinette and her mom went down into the bakery. Sabine so she can help out in the shop, and Marinette so she could say bye to her dad. "Don't forget these macaroons," Tom said as he handed over the box. But first, he opened it to show off the treats.

"Gosh, Dad, these are perfect! The class is going to love them. You're the best."

"We're the best, with your amazing design," Tom held up a logo drawn on paper that Marinette had made, "and my baking skills, we're an unstoppable team." He leaned in to give his daughter a kiss on her cheek. "Now, have a good day, sweetheart."

"Thanks, Dad." Marinette took the macaroons, fumbling the box at first.

"Careful," a voice said from near the display case. Marinette turned to see Adrien smiling at her. "Good morning, Marinette."

Marinette blushed. She had forgotten he was going to walk with her to school. "Morning, Adrien. Hope you were not waiting long."

Adrien and Tom shared a smile. "Not long. Your father was telling me about your logo design for the bakery. I'm impressed."

"You kids better be off." Tom shooed his daughter out. "Don't want to be late on your first day."

Outside, the duo waited for the traffic light so they could cross the street.

"You seem eager?" Marinette commented. Adrien was clearly excited. But before he could reply, Marinette had looked over and saw an old man crossing the street. She also heard and then turned her head to see a car coming. "Oh no!" She dashed into the road.

"Marinette!" Adrien dashed out besides her. They both reached the elderly Asian man, who was now more than halfway across. Marinette had gripped his right arm as Adrien took his left.

"Come on," Marinette nodded to Adrien and both pulled the guy to the safety of the sidewalk. And as the box of cookies fell, Adrien managed to scoop it mid air.

"Phew," Adrien relaxed as he saw the old man was safe.

"Thank you," the man told them. "You have saved my life."

Adrien smiled. "No problem."

Marinette nodded. "It was our pleasure." She then took the box from Adrien and presented it open. "Would you like one?"

The elderly man took one. "Thank you again."

They could hear a school bell ringing. "Oh no!" Marinette gasped. "Come on Adrien, we're going to be late!" She then grabbed the boy's arm as she ran off.


Adrien was seated by Marinette, second row next to the door, as they waited for school to start. "Nino, why don't you come sit in the front," their teacher requested a fellow student.

"So, this is exciting," Adrien said to Marinette. "What do you think our first class will be?"

But before Marinette could reply, there was an ear-splitting scream from the door. "ADRIKINS!" Chloe bellowed as she entered the room. "You're here already?" Chloe then marched right up the steps and firmly told Marinette, "You're in my seat."

Marinette gawped, fish-like. "What? I always sit here?"

"Yeah, but not this year." Chloe then pointed to a new girl in the front row. "You can sit with four eyes."

"Excuse me?" The girl's offended tone was evident to everyone but Chloe.

Ever the peacemaker, Adrien stood up to make calming hand gestures. "Come on, Chlo. Does it really matter who sits where?"

"Oh Adri-darling, you have so much to learn about the social order in schools. Do you really want to be seen sitting with a loser like Mari-trash?"

Adrien's countenance grew fierce as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Chloe. We've been friends for ages. But do not ever speak in that tone of voice to m-" His tirade cut off by a suddenly anxious Marinette shooting up out of her seat.

"I-It's no pr-pr-problem," she quickly stuttered; eager to keep Adrien from finishing his sentence. The new girl nodded and gestured to the empty spot next to her.

Adrien, though, laid a firm grip on her shoulder, keeping Marinette from moving out of her spot. "You know she can't make you move seats, right?" He was kind and gentle, leaning into Marinette's space.

Chloe grew red. "Wait a minute! How do you two even know each other."

"We're -" Adrien began but was quickly talked over by a somewhat hysterical Marinette.

"My family had a business dealing with his father over the summer. That's all."

"What?" Chloe turned her nose up as she snorted. "Did he want to buy a cake or something?" This last part was addressed to Adrien.

"Not exactly."

Marinette turned to Adrien. "It's no problem, really. I can move. I didn't know Chloe was the Chloe you told me about, your old friend. Why don't you sit with her?"

Adrien frowned. "And I didn't know my Chloe was your Chloe. You know, the one I said I'd help you with."

Chloe sniffed. "Are you seriously choosing this peasant trash over me?"

"No." Marinette sighed. "I don't want to make you choose, Adrien. I don't mind, really. You're free to have all the friends you want to keep."

Adrien gave her a grim look before staring at his other friend. He looked back to Marinette, the way she was obviously faking her smile for his benefit. He could tell she just didn't want the drama. "Alright, but first - you're having lunch with me. And second, it's high time I make more friends." And with that he turned to the boy in front of him, who was watching the exchange with rapt attention. He stuck his hand out. "Hi, I'm Adrien. Pleasure to meet you."

The boy nodded, impressed that he stood up to Chloe for Marinette's sake. "I'm Nino."

Adrien grabbed his things. "Mind if I join you, Nino?" And as Marinette moved to join the new girl, Adrien moved a row down.

Chloe gave an angry little growl. "Not going to sit with me?"

"But where would Sabrina sit?" Adrien smiled at the redhead. "Hi, you must be Sabrina?"

And to the dissatisfaction of Chloe, Adrien, and Marinette, the seating arrangement changed.

"Settle down class. For those who are new, I am Mrs. Bustier." The class had begun, but that was when a large student behind Chloe suddenly shot out of his seat with an angry scream of "Kim!" and Mrs. Bustier had to break up the potential for a fight. "Ivan. Principal office. Now."

Then half the class left to go for gym while the other half had study hall in the library. Adrien, who was across the aisle from Marinette, caught her eye and smiled. But before he could say anything, Chloe draped herself over his shoulder. "Come along, Adrien. I simply must show you around." And he was dragged off.

Marinette sighed, shook her head, and gave an amused grin. "I don't pity the boy."

Her seatmate, who she learned was Alya, then stuck a phone under her nose. On it was a modeling photo of Adrien. "He's pretty famous."

Marinette gave a nervous giggle as she scratched the back of her head. "I suppose. If you like fashion, that is."

"What's the scoop?"

Marinette frowned in confusion. "The scoop? What scoop?"

"With that boy? Adrien." Alya was giving her a penetrating look.

Marinette waved her hand as she sucked on her bottom lip. "Oh, him? Seems he and Chloe has known each other since they were little. He's been home schooled, prior, so I guess she's excited to get to see him at school too."

"Hmmm mmm," Alya voiced as she remained unconvinced.

Marinette shrugged. "Come on, we should get going. I'll show you where the library is."

Alya grabbed her bag. "Don't think this conversation is over, girl. I've seen the looks you two gave each other."

"Looks? What looks?" Marinette blushed. She then strode towards the door. "Anyhow, in all the excitement, I forgot I had macaroons for everyone. Maybe next period."

But study hall wasn't meant to be. A stone monster tore through the school and Alya decided she had to chase after it. Marinette instead heeded the announcement that all students should return home for their safety. She was pleased to find Adrien by the front doors, waiting for her. She was less pleased to find Chloe at the front doors, trying to drag Adrien off.

Marinette waved at him as she approached. "You're still here? Waiting for your driver?"

"Waiting for you, actually. I wanted to play some Ultimate Mecha Strike III, you in?"

"Video games?" Chloe screeched. "How pedestrian! Adrikin, you're so much better than that."

Marinette gave a nervous glance between the two. "Sounds like fun. Though, I do not know how many more times you're going to stand losing. Really, maybe you ought to wait to challenge me until you got game."

Adrien smirked. "Is that a challenge? 'Cause it sounded like one to me. I'll break your winning streak, just you see."

"But what am I going to do?" Chloe whined.

Adrien sighed then turned to his oldest friend with a fond smile. "I bet you and Sabrina could get your nails done. You know, you gotta keep on top of those things. A chip can occur at any time." Adrien then mocked gasped as he pointed to her hand. "Oh no ... what's that? Is that a defect in the finish?"

"A defect?" Chloe growled as she looked her hands over. "I just had these done yesterday. I'm going to go give a piece of my mind to the worthless trash who gave me a shoddy nail job."

As she stormed away, Adrien gave a sigh of relief. "Come on then." He held his hand out to Marinette. "Shall we go back to your place; it is closer?"

Marinette blushed. "Sure."

In the background they could hear Chloe complain "Out of my way!" and then a sound like someone falling and going "Oof." Adrien rolled his eyes. As they got outside, the two found a familiar looking old man on the ground, his cane out of reach.

Adrien quickly hopped to attention and dashed to his side. "Here, let me help you up."

Marinette quickly went for the cane and handed it to the man once Adrien had helped him up. "It's just not your day, is it, sir?"

He chuckled. "I do owe the two of you my gratitude."

"It's no big deal," Adrien told him.

Marinette agreed. "It's our pleasure. Now, be careful on your way home."

The man chuckled once more. "I make no promises." He winked at the kids, then, slowly, he carefully made his way using his cane to help him along.

The two kids walked to the bakery.

"What do you think is going on?" Marinette sounded stressed. "Some monster attacked the school and then ran off."

Adrien shrugged, a frown playing on his lips. "I don't know. I'm happy that no one got hurt."

Marinette nodded and frowned. "Did you have fun seeing the school?"

Adrien made a face. "Sorry about that and Chloe. You didn't deserve any of it."

They two reached the end of the street and waited to cross. "Can we just forget it ever happened?" Marinette stared at her feet.

Adrien gently lifted her chin and turned her to look at him. "If you want. Don't be afraid to assert yourself. You can't let people walk all over you."

Marinette tore her chin from his grasp and look away. "Yeah, well. Guess you married a coward. Sorry about that. Probably should have mentioned it sooner."

Since the light had turned, Marinette began to briskly walk across the street. Adrien kept to her side. He gave her a caring look she didn't see. "Come on, let's go play some video games."

Instead of going right up, Marinette entered the bakery - which was doing a brisk business. "Mom? Dad? I'm back from school."

Sabine looked over, confused and worried. "Why are you home so soon?"

"Monster attack," Adrien quipped. "Everyone got sent home."

"Monster attack?" Tom asked from the back kitchen.

Marinette nodded. "I bet it's on the news, already."

Sabine pursed her lips, in thought. "I better give the school a call. See when you can go back."

Marinette shrugged. "Mind if we go play some video games?"

"Go ahead," Sabine smiled. "But stay in the living room. I'll be up soon to make you some snacks."

Marinette nodded. "OK." She then dragged Adrien after her.

On the way up, Adrien asked, "Snacks? Didn't you just have breakfast less than an hour ago?"

Marinette giggled. "Snacks is her way of keeping an eye on us. You know, all alone with a boy and all that."

Adrien blushed. "Ah ... I hadn't thought of it that way."

"It's alright." Marinette laid a hand on his arm before turning and fumbling with her key to unlock the door. "I don't think either of us are ready for more, just yet. So don't let them unnerve you."

"No, it's great. The way they care about you. How open they are with their feelings. You've ... you've seen my father."

Marinette stalled halfway to the TV, stopping to give him such a sad smile. "Aw, Adrien. You know, you're always welcomed here."

Adrien smiled and then opened his mouth to speak, but his phone rang, so he closed it again and reached for his pocket. "Hi, Nathalie. ... The school called? ... I'm with Marinette at her place. It was closer. ... Yeah, no monsters near, it's safe. ... Sure thing. ... Bye."

"See," Marinette mentioned as she took his hands into hers, "in their own way, they worry about you, too."

Adrien nodded his head. "Do you worry about me?"

Marinette leaned in. "I worry about everything. I'm a spaz. You'll just have to get used to it."

Adrien chuckled. "You're such a dork. God I love that about you."

Marinette blushed. "So, uh ... Video game time. Unless you want a drink or something."

Adrien shook his head. "No, I'm good. Let's get some Mecha Strike action going." But they were slow to part.

Adrien sat on the small couch as Marinette got the TV and console ready. "What's this," he asked as he spied a couple boxes off to the side.

"What's what?" Marinette looked to where he pointed. Two boxes, oriental motif blazoned upon the top, sat on paper. Each with one of their names on it. "Maybe a wedding gift from my folks? Looks Chinese."

"What do you think? Should we open them now?" Adrien peered closer. He was very curious, also touched that someone got him a present. "Or should we wait for your mom and dad first?"

This seems like a good place to end it :P

The idea is they get to meet each other first as Marinette and Adrien, and then receive their miraculouses together. Maybe it would be something like this:

There was a sudden glow and two little floating things appear. Marinette freaked out, screaming, "Eek! They're some kind of Chinese curse bugs!"

"I am Tikki and ... Plagg, is that you?"

The little, black kwami joyously tackled the red one. "Tikki! Tikki!"

Adrien pushed Marinette behind himself. "What's going on here?"

And also to see how much I could draw it out until Chloe finds out they're married.

"Married?! I forbid it!" The blonde stomped her foot.

Adrien sighed. "It's part of the agreement to merge Gabriel's with Marinette's family business in silks."

The mayor's daughter stuck her nose in the air as she sniffed. "Some backwater, Chinese peasant cottage industry, I am sure."

"Only you, Chloe," Adrien said with a head shake, "would consider a multi-billion dollar company to be a small-time operation."

"Then she's only doing it for your money." The girl glared at Marinette.

Adrien dropped his head into his hands. "Again. Multi-billion dollar family business. Technically, I am marrying her for the money, if you want to split hairs."

Yeah, the only reason I had it be such a successful family business - besides ignorance of the silk industry - was just so it could be rubbed into Chloe's face when the reveal finally occurs. Not the superhero reveal, just the man and wife one. Until then, I wonder if I could get away with Chloe hearing some third hand rumors, coming out of China, saying that famous French scion Adrien Agreste married some Chinese girl. One she doesn't believe but will rant about all day.

And think of all the fun one can have writing about, say ... Copycat! Why would Marinette freak out over a phone message? Even if she still leaves such, she won't feel the need to go all Mission Impossible on it. So, she's at the ceremony with Cat Noir. And Theo flirts with her. And you know, adult unknowingly hitting on an underaged girl has to be just as awkward in Paris as it is anyplace else. So, Ladybug might say something like:

"I am flattered. But I don't think my husband would approve." Ladybug nervously brushed a stray strand of hair behind her ears.

Theo didn't want to believe it. "Husband?" He said a little too loudly.

Cat Noir, from where he was signing autographs, turned his head to look back at them. "Someone calling me?"

Or maybe it doesn't even get that far, if in their acceptance speech they reveal as much. By then, the kids have had time to come to better grips with their marital status.

"I can't tell you how much this means to us. My husband and I have pledged our utmost to protecting Paris, and it warms our heart to see the city we love loving us back."

Which caused a flurry of reporters trying to get more details.

Either way, I see Theo being just as heartbroken and jealous, perhaps more so, as in canon and becoming Copycat. Ladybug has it a bit worse with the police, she's married to the suspect. But maybe Adrien doesn't run off all lone wolf style, getting caught - or they both get caught. And they'll have to confront Theo at the end. So it's a case of even though things change, they still stay the same. But other things could change. Maybe Max never loses his spot for the video game tournament because Marinette doesn't need an excuse to hang with Adrien and Adrien knows Marinette is better than him. So he proposes the two as a team and everyone has to play against her - essentially ensuring Max's place.

Ah, but we could also have fun with Animan. Nino tells Adrien he has the hots for Marinette - but it's before they go public with their marriage. (Maybe not, but let's say so.) How does that play out? And if, from the first day, it's normal to see Marinette and Adrien always with each other, would Nino even dare? And for Volpina, with the marriage already public, is Lila even going to bother chasing after Adrien?

And, of course, all of the slice of life moments of Marinette's and Adrien's relationship. With no secrets between them, how much faster can it blossom?