Chapter 10: Impressing Gabriel

Marinette was about to have a nervous breakdown, as she looked at her now empty wardrobe, as well as all her clothes lying on the floor, and could not decide what to wear. Two days before, Adrien had told her that he had revealed to his father the two of them were dating, and that prompted him to invite her for tea. When she heard him tell her that, she became nervous and fearful of what might happen. Still, she immediately told Adrien that she would be honoured to have tea with his father. She tried to think that all of that was no big deal, and kept telling herself that. But a couple of hours later, no matter how many times she had already told herself that the whole thing was something that bound to happen, sooner or later, she began to overthink it, and started to freak out. And now, she was trying her best not to go crazy, due to the nerves, which were giving the urge to throw up the little lunch, she was able to eat. Just imagining that she was going to be in a room, alone with Adrien and his father, where Gabriel would be judging her every move, and deciding if she was good enough for Adrien, who he had brought up to be the perfect human being.

Time was passing, and Marinette knew that in just two and a half hours, Adrien's bodyguard and chauffeur, who he had nicknamed "Gorilla", would come and pick her up, and take her to the Agreste Manor, where she would have tea and biscuits with Adrien and Gabriel, and she did not even know what she was going to wear, or what kind of hairstyle she would wear. Usually, Sabine would help her out, like every loving mother would, to make sure that she looked her best. Unfortunately, on that afternoon, Sabine and her husband Tom, had their hands full, because of a large last-minute order, making it impossible for her to help Marinette. Taking deep breaths, and trying to calm her nerves, as well, as not throwing up, Marinette asked help from the only other person, or in this case, creature, that could help her… her kwami.

"Tikki, help me, please! I think I'm going to have a heart attack!" -Marinette exclaimed.

"You're not going to have a heart attack, Marinette." -Tikki chuckled. –"Just take a few deep breaths, and try to relax." -she told her, as she hovered in front of the girl's face.

"That's easy for you to say! You're not the one who's going to have tea with your future father-in-law." -Marinette told her, clearly terrified with the idea. –"This has to be absolutely perfect! I need to be absolutely perfect! Because if I'm not perfect, then things won't go perfectly, and Adrien's dad will think that I'm not the right kind of girl for Adrien, and he'll forbid us from dating, and eventually marry, and we won't have three perfect children, and a pet hamster, and I'll end up getting a depression and relive all the good times I had with Adrien, in my head, because that's the closest thing I'll ever have to a romance with him… after which, I'll go crazy and end up in an asylum…"

When Marinette started to say all those nonsenses, Tikki saw that her nerves were beginning to get the best of her, and she decided to do the one thing she knew was guaranteed to calm Marinette down… a slap to the face. And that was what she gave her. She flew towards her face and slapped her. The slap was not very hard, because Tikki had small hands, but the strength she used was more than enough to stun Marinette, as well as shutting her up for a moment. Tikki was not adept of using force against those she loved, but in certain cases, like that one, she did not mind, because she knew it was for a good cause.

"Stop it!" -Tikki shouted at her. –"You're making a mountain out of a molehill, out of all this, Marinette. You're not going to crazy or end up in an asylum, because everything's going to be alright." -she said, this time with a calm and soothing voice. –"Do you really believe that if Adrien's dad did not want him to date you, would he even choose to waste time and invite you for tea, so he could get to know you better?"

"No… But there's still time for him to decide that I'm not good enough for Adrien." -Marinette said, with a discouraged voice. –"I mean, for all we know, Adrien's would want him to date someone who's more upper class than I am. Someone like Chloe, or even that other girlfriend that practices fencing with Adrien… what was her name? Oh, yeah, Kagami." -she said. –"I don't want to believe that, but there's always the chance that he might think that. He might think that Adrien should date one of them, instead of me."

"But Adrien decided that he wants to date you, not Chloe, nor any other girl." -Tikki said.

"I know, Tikki." -Marinette sighed. –"But that won't matter if Adrien's dad doesn't approve of me." -she said, as she sat on her chaise longue. –"I knew from the moment Adrien told me about it, that this was going to happen. That I would begin to freak out about it."

(Flashback)

When Adrien told Marinette that he had told his father about them, and that he had decided to invite her for tea, she nearly had a heart attack. The girl knew that the day Gabriel would find out about them would come. But she was still caught by surprise.

"Tea?! With your dad?!" -Marinette asked Adrien, with a trembling voice.

"Y-Yeah… I know, it's a little cliché and outdated, but that's how my dad is." -Adrien said.

"B-But, how did he react, when you told him about us?" -Marinette asked him, while still processing what she had just heard.

"Oh, he… well, he took it quite well." -Adrien told her. –"I mean, he didn't make a big fuss about it, but I could tell that he was a little surprised." -he added. –"Nathalie was present, so, she helped to smooth things a little. She's always able to do that."

Marinette could hear a bit of nervousness in Adrien's voice, which made her even more anxious than she already was.

"Adrien… don't take this the wrong way, but I don't know if I'm ready to have tea with your dad." -Marinette told him.

"Everything will be fine. There's nothing to worry about." -Adrien tried to reassure her.

"Yes, there is. What if your dad doesn't like me?" -Marinette pointed out. –"It could happen. He could think that I'm not the right girl for you." -she said.

"Marinette, you've met him before, and he has sympathized with you. He even gave you a couple of pointers on fashion, and he doesn't do that often, so you can believe me, when I say that he considers you someone who's worthy of his attention." -Adrien reminded her. –"Besides, there's nothing wrong with you. You're the best girlfriend I could ever have, and my dad's going to see that, when he gets the chance to know you better."

"You're awfully sweet with those words." -Marinette smiled at him. –"And I really wish your dad was a bit more like you." -she said, as she caressed his face.

"He's a tough cookie, I'll admit. But deep inside, he's got a kind heart. And I know that that kind heart of his, will allow him to see just how wonderful you are, and allow us to continue to date." -Adrien said, as he leaned forward and kissed Marinette on the lips.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah… and you better get back to your classroom, before your teacher wonders where you are." -Plagg told them, interrupting the kiss.

"He's right. You two don't want to get into trouble, do you?" -Tikki asked them.

(End of Flashback)

"Maybe I should just call Adrien and tell him that I'm feeling a little sick, and that we should just postpone this to another time." -Marinette told Tikki, as she looked at her cell phone, and hesitated about picking it up –"No, I can't do that. This means a lot to Adrien, and… well, I would have to face his dad, sooner or later."

"Everything's going to be fine, Marinette. And trust me. I'm a very good judge of character, and all the times that we were both in the presence of Adrien's dad, he seemed like a cold and distant person. But I sensed that he's also a nice and amicable man, who may have difficulties expressing emotionally Also, he cares about Adrien's well-being, just like you. And when he sees that Adrien chose a lovely, talented and beautiful young lady like you, to be his girlfriend, I'm sure he'll be more than happy to let you continue to date." -Tikki said, with a sincere smile on her face. –"Plus, I'm sure we can find the right clothes and the right hairstyle, for you to make a great impression on Gabriel."

Even after Tikki gave her that whole speech, Marinette still felt nervous and scared. The whole idea of Adrien's dad not approving of her to date his son, was terrifying, Still, her words had given her the strength to remember something her grandmother Gina taught her. She had taught her that when dealing with something she could not control, one should think of what could go right, instead of what could go wrong. With that in her thoughts, she decided to put it to the test.

"Alright, I'll try to not go bonkers." -Marinette sighed, as she got up. –"Still, you're going to have to help me. What do you think I should wear?" -she asked Tikki.

"Well, if I were you, I would go with something simple, but still pretty. You've got so many beautiful clothes that you've designed and created, that it's hard to just choose one or two pieces." -Tikki said.

"That's the problem, Tikki. I've got so many beautiful clothes, and I can't decide." -Marinette told her. –"Please, tell me that you, in your infinite wisdom, have a way to help me decide." -she begged her.

"Infinite wisdom? Me? I'm very wise, but I don't think I'm infinitely wise, Marinette." -Tikki giggled. –"Well, you could always just close your eyes and pick the first ones you grabbed." -she suggested. –"It's not exactly foolproof, but it's a way."

"It sure is." -Marinette smiled.

"My suggestion to you, is that you take a shower, or a long bath, so you can relax a little bit, and then, only then, will you choose what to wear." -Tikki suggested her.

"Well, my mom's always telling me that there's nothing like a warm bath, to forget about your problems." -Marinette said. –"I think I'll take your advice. And while I'm on the bath, I can think of how I'm going to wear my hair." -she declared.

"That's the spirit." -Tikki told her. –"By the way, let me ask you something, Marinette. Why the hamster? I mean, you're always saying that when you and Adrien get married, you'll have three children and a pet hamster. Why that obsession with the hamster?" -she asked her, in a playful tone.

"I like hamsters. They're fluffy, they're cute, and you can have more than one, without risking people calling you something like "crazy old cat lady", you know?" -Marinette answered her, as she headed to the bathroom –"Also, I'm a really huge fan of Hamtaro. I always wanted to have a hamster for a pet, but my mom's allergic to animal hair, so, I could never have one." -she admitted, as she opened the bathroom door.

"Have you considered the chance that Adrien, might not like hamsters?" -Tikki asked her. –"I mean, he seems more like a cat person, if you know what I mean?" -she joked.

"I have, and he's probably more of a cat person." -Marinette giggled, as she turned on the water. –"Too hot… too cold… perfect… Anyways, that is why I came up with the perfect plan, to convince him that hamsters are the perfect animals to have as a pet." -she smiled.

"A perfect plan? Like the one you always had, when you were trying to tell him you loved him, and that you kept changing and postponing… that plan?" -Tikki joked.

"Sometimes I wonder if Plagg and Flint are really the only kwamis who like to tell bad jokes, you know?"– Marinette asked her, sarcastically. –"But no, it's not like that plan." -she said. –"I'm merely going to take him to a pet store, and have him see just how cute and adorable they are. And when the time comes, we'll buy one, and my life will be complete."

"That does seem like a better plan. Unless, of course, you start to change it, and to postpone it." –"Tikki joked about it.

"Har de har har… that was so funny, I even forgot to laugh." -Marinette said, in a sarcastic tone, before bursting into laughter. –"You're funnier than you look, Tikki." -she said, as she removed her hairbands, letting her hair down. –"You know, maybe I'll wear my hair like this today. I love my pigtails, but I bet Adrien's dad will like it better, if I look a little older than I am."

"Maybe. Or you could try and wear it in a ponytail, or a bun? I've seen photos of you wearing it like that, and you look incredibly pretty." -Tikki suggested her.

"A ponytail? I don't think so. It's not that I dislike the idea, but I don't see myself wearing my hair like that today. As for the bun, I think I could pull it off." -Marinette said, as she took off her jacket. –"It will depend on what I decide to wear, once I get out of the bath." -she smiled at the little kwami.

As Marinette entered in her bathtub, in the Agreste Manor, Adrien was having a similar problem. Though he was not about to flip out, due to his nerves, Adrien was still a little nervous. The idea of having Marinette over for tea, with his father, was making him anxious. He wanted Gabriel to see just how wonderful Marinette was, and give them permission to date. While thinking about it, he remembered how Marinette's parents reacted, when they found out. They were both incredibly happy for them, and they both insisted on him showing up at their place, whenever he wanted. Looking outside the window, he wondered if things with his father would go alright. When he told him that he and Marinette were dating, Gabriel did not become ecstatic with the news, but he did not oppose it either. Still, it was not until Nathalie talked with him, and made him see the issue through another perspective, that Gabriel decided to invite Marinette, so he could get to know her better.

"Well, he already knows that she's really talented, and that she's trying to become a fashion designer, like him. He also knows that she cares about me… and that's just about it." -Adrien thought to himself, as he paced around. –"Maybe I should have thought about this a little better. Maybe I should have come up with a different way to tell dad that I was dating Marinette." -he continued to muse about it.

"Stop being so nervous, kid! You're going to give yourself an ulcer, or a serious case of leg cramps, if you keep pacing around." -Plagg said, as he hovered next to him.

"And can you blame me? My dad's almost arriving and I'm nervous about what might happen, if he thinks that Marinette's not good enough for me. Or worst, he could think that I'm too good for her." -Adrien stated, trying not to get even more nervous than he already was.

"You need to relax. Everything's going to be fine." –Plagg told him.

"I don't know about that. I mean, maybe I should have waited a little longer, before telling my dad about me and Marinette." -Adrien sighed. –"The other day, when I told Marinette I had told my dad about us, I was so confident that everything was going to be alright, but now, I'm beginning to share the fear she showed me." -he told Plagg. –"And now, I'm playing the whole scene of when I told my father, in my mind, which is making him even more nervous about all this."

(Flashback)

The clock stroke eight, its sound echoing through the Agreste mansion's dining room. There was still some natural light outside, but only for a few more minutes, after which, the only light outside, would come from the street lamps, or in the Agreste household's case, the lamps from the manor's entrance.

As always, dinner was served promptly at eight, as both Gabriel Agreste and Adrien Agreste, father and son, sat at the table. For dinner, the chef had prepared poached salmon with little quail eggs and sauté cauliflower.

"How was your day today, Adrien?" -Gabriel asked his son, as they began to eat.

"I-It was good." -Adrien answered. –"It was… normal." -he added. –"What about you? How was your day today, dad?"

"It was good. The same usual problems, but nothing to worry about." -Gabriel declared.

Now that the ice was broken Adrien knew it was the right time for him to tell his father about him and Marinette. He had played the conversation they were about to have in his head, more times than he could remember. And now, he was hoping that doing such a thing, would pay off, by preparing him for whatever Gabriel threw at him.

"I… I… There's something that I've been meaning to tell you, and I think this is the right moment to do it." -Adrien said.

"And was it, Adrien?" –Gabriel asked him, wondering what could it be. –"Is it something school related? Because Nathalie has told me, she talked to your teachers, and everything was fine with your grades." -he said.

"N-No, it's not school related. It's just that I… I… I am dating someone." -Adrien said.

After saying those words, there was silence between father and son. Adrien did not know if his father was shocked, astounded or surprised by what he had just told him, because Gabriel's face was inexpressive. The seconds before Gabriel's response, felt like years to Adrien, who wished to know his father's reaction to the news he had just told him.

"Dating, you say?" -Gabriel asked, a little surprised, by what he had heard.

"Yes, dad." –Adrien said.

"Well, that explains why you seemed so… jolly, lately. You know what I think, regarding that matter, and we've talked about it." -Gabriel told him. –"I don't like it that you're wasting your time with some girl, when you need to focus on more important things, Adrien." -he said

Gabriel's answer was not a no, but it was definitely not a yes, as expected. Adrien knew that was going to be his father's answer. But like always, he had a plan, which he hoped, would work. He just had to wait for the right moment to strike.

"And who is the girl, by the way? Someone I know, or is it someone absolutely unknown to me?" -Gabriel asked him, slightly curious.

"It's… It's Marinette." -Adrien said.

"Marinette? Oh, yes, the girl in your class who aspires to become a fashion designer, am I right?" -Gabriel asked, as he tried to remember.

"Among other things, yeah." -Adrien thought to himself. –"Yes, that's her." -he said.

"I see… well, I stand by what I told you before. I don't want you to waste time on a silly relationship. Not, when you have other priorities." -Gabriel told him with a blunt voice. –"I know that this may seem harsh, Adrien, but I'm only looking out for your well-being." -he said.

Adrien knew that his father would not be easily convinced to let him date Marinette, but he was not going to let him have the final word. Not if he had something to say, and he did. Adrien had one trump card to play, and he was about to play it.

"And what would mom say?" -Adrien asked him. –"With all due respect, but if mom was here, I believe she would approve of this." -he said, playing his trump card.

That was Adrien's trump card. His mother. Though Emilie Agreste was no longer among the living, she still played an important part in the lives of both Adrien and Gabriel. Just because she was dead, it did not mean that her influence over them was gone. And Adrien knew that. He knew that even though his mother was dead, his father always had in consideration what she would think and do, if she was still alive.

"I'm not saying that I'm going to marry her, dad." -Adrien said. –"At least, not yet." -he thought to himself. –"But I do love her, and I know she loves me… if mom was here, she would probably tell me that I need to experience this, the same way every other person does, by taking a little bit of risk. And she would say that she was happy that I found someone, who sees me for what I truly am, and not just the handsome face that we all see in the billboards across the city. You're always complaining that I have all these crazy fangirls, who just see me as someone who has a pretty face and, forgive me the expression, a buttload of money to burn. Well, Marinette is different. She doesn't care about my money or anything else."

"And how do you know she's not just trying to take advantage of you?" -Gabriel asked his son. –"For all you know, it could all be a ruse, or a trick. You know there are people like that, Adrien." -he told him.

All that Gabriel said were fair points. But Adrien knew better. He knew that Marinette was nothing like that, and that they had both went through stuff that most people only dream about. And everything they went through, had strengthened their friendship, which turned into love.

"You've met her before. Did she seem to you, like the kind of crazy fangirl, that from time to time shows up, asking me to be her boyfriend?" -Adrien asked Gabriel. –"She's a sweet, kind and wonderful girl, and she loves me, as much as I love her." -he declared. –"I know what you're thinking. That I'm young and unexperienced, when it comes to these things, and you're right. I am young, but I'm not a child. And furthermore, you brought me up to always do what it's best for me, and for others. You have taught me, and so did mom, as well as Nathalie, to see through appearances and first impressions, as well as to always follow my heart, without disregarding what my mind's telling me. And I'm telling you that both my mind and my heart are telling me that Marinette is worthy of my love and affection. Don't you think you owe me a chance to prove to you that I know what I'm doing, as well a chance to Marinette to prove to you that she's not trying to take advantage of me? Don't you think that you owe us a chance to prove to you that this isn't just a passing thing?"

And with that speech, Adrien believed he had placed his father between a rock and a hard place, when it came to him having any suitable excuses to forbid him from dating Marinette. It was always his intention to make Gabriel see that he was not just speaking from his heart, but that he had put a lot of thought into what he was saying. As for Gabriel, he tried to think of how he could turn the tables on his son, to prove to him that Marinette could be trying to play him, but the way Adrien had exposed his case, had left him unable to counter any of his arguments. He could just say that he was not going to allow Adrien to date Marinette, because he did not want that to happen. But then he remembered that this would not be what Emilie would want, if she was alive. She would never want their son to not have the chance to experience his first love. Moved by his late wife's memory, Gabriel decided to give them a chance.

"I suppose we can have her over for tea, this Saturday, so I can see if she truly is the way you say she is." -Gabriel said. –"I'll have to ask Nathalie or Nina, if I have that afternoon off, which I think I do, and if so, we can have her over." -he declared. –"And as for allowing you to date each other… that will only happen, if it happens, once I get to know her a little better."

(End of Flashback)

"You did what you had to do. You couldn't continue to hide the fact that you're dating Marinette, from your father, for a lot longer." -Plagg told him. –"I mean, your dad is a little oblivious about a lot of things, but even he noticed you're more cheerful than usual, and asked himself what was going on with you." -he said. –"Plus, you stood up to him. That's a good thing. I mean, sure you did it in a polite way, but you still did it. You convinced him to invite her, to see if she was the right girl for you."

Like it happened so many other times, Plagg was the voice of reason, when Adrien needed to hear the most. Beneath all the jokes, the incessant laziness and the appetite of a lion for cheese, the black cat kwami showed that he was also quite wise.

"You're right. I had to tell him, sooner or later." -Adrien said. –"Though, to be honest, dating Marinette, without my dad knowing about it, was kind of fun. And standing up to him, was like the cherry on top of the cake." -he admitted. –"It was like breaking a bunch of rules, while hoping to never be caught… a little bit, like when I'm Chat Noir."

"You are reminding me of one of my previous holders, you know?" -Plagg told him.

"And why is that? I mean, it's not the first time you mention one of your holders. But when you do, it's always for a different reason." -Adrien told him. –"So, which one do I remind you of, and why?" -he asked Plagg, curious to hear what he was going to answer.

"Well, you are reminding me of Alessandro. He was one of my holders in the 16th century, and just like you, he liked a girl, and he started to date her, behind his father's back, because their families were enemies. This went on for almost a year, and it was funny to see him coming up with all kinds of excuses to go and meet her. It was already hard for him to come up with an excuse to fight Hawk Moth, who had found a way to reincarnate in another body, in Florence. So, you can imagine him going the extra mile, to come up with excuses to see the girl of his dreams." -Plagg laughed, as he remembered about some of the excuses. –"There was this one time that he told his father that he was training for the marathon, and the old man actually fell for it. Of course, because of that, he had to keep pretending that he was training for that, and when arriving home, showing up all sweaty… I mean, a couple of weeks, he simply told him that he was not cut out for it, but man, you should have seen him trying to get all sweaty, after courting the girl." -he laughed even harder. –"Oh, that Alessandro. He used to give him big chunks of mozzarella… sweet, sweet mozzarella."

"He sounds like a funny guy. But that whole family business, sounds a lot like Romeo and Juliet." -Adrien told him. –"Don't tell me the girl he was dating was also the holder of the ladybug miraculous?" -he asked him.

"No, she wasn't. Back then, the holder of the ladybug miraculous was a guy, just so you know." -Plagg said. –"Anyways, he continued to date her in secret. And because their families did not see eye to eye, the two of them decided to run away, and start fresh, somewhere else, after he and a few more heroes, defeated Hawk Moth. I never found out what happened to him and the girl he loved, but I like to think that they ended up finding a nice place to start a family." -he admitted.

"And they probably did." -Adrien told him. –"While there's life, there's hope." -he declared.

"Let me guess, Wayzz told you that one?" -Plagg asked him.

"Nope. It was my mom. She was the one who usually said that." -Adrien told him. –"You know, I wish she was here. Maybe her being here, would make things easier for me and Marinette. If she was still here, she would sweet talk my dad into accepting her as my girlfriend." -he sighed.

"Adrien, would you cut that out?!" -Plagg exclaimed. –"You're talking like your old man has already deemed Marinette not good enough for you!" -he said. –"And if you keep saying that, you'll jinx it."

"Sorry… but I'm really worried." -Adrien said.

"Look, do yourself a favour and come play some videogames with me. It will keep you mind off your problems, until Marinette arrives." -Plagg suggested him, as he flew over to where the numerous gaming consoles were. –"Come on, I bet I can finally kick your butt in Mortal Kombat."

"Keep dreaming, Plagg." -Adrien laughed. –"I already told you. As long as I know how to pull all the fatalities from Scorpion, Shao Khan, Kitana and Raiden, you'll never beat me. Especially since you're always choosing Sub-Zero and Motaro." -he said, as he grabbed the PS4 remote. –"But if you want to be humiliated, again, that's fine with me."

"Bring it on, cat boy!" -Plagg playfully exclaimed.

It was nearly three in the afternoon, when one of the Agrestes' private limousines parked in front of the Dupain-Cheng bakery. Turning off the engine, Gorilla exited the limousine, and made his way inside the bakery. Opening the door, his nose smelled the delicious scents that were in the air. The scent of freshly baked bread was one of his favourites. At the counter, Tom had just placed the latest batch of freshly baked loaves of bread, which he had taken from the oven, a minute before. Upon seeing him, Tom greeted Gorilla, who over the last few months, had become a known face to him.

"Oh, you must be here for Marinette." -Tom said. –"My wife told me a couple of minutes ago, that she was just finishing getting ready. While you wait, can I get you something? Maybe something sweet, like a muffin or a cupcake? These here were made just half hour ago." -he asked him, to which he grunted, and waved his head, signalling that he was alright. –"Are you sure? These are to die for… or maybe you're more a fan of something saltier, like a pretzel, or a little chicken pie. They're all homemade, and they're all to die for, let me tell you that."

But before Gorilla could once again refuse the kind gesture, the door that led upstairs to the Dupain-Cheng apartment opened, and Marinette entered the bakery. Looking at her, Gorilla and Tom were impressed by the way she had dressed that day. Marinette was wearing a red sweater jacket, a black short skirt, white knee-high stockings with red lines on the outer-sides, and black Mary-Jane shoes. But what stood out was her hair. She was wearing her hair loose, with a hair band. On her hands, she was holding a small purse with her designer's logo on it.

"Marinette, you look… amazing." -Tom told his daughter.

"Thanks, dad." -Marinette thanked him with a smile. –"I'm sorry if I made you wait." -she told Gorilla.

"Oh, you didn't make him wait. He just arrived." -Tom told her. –"I hope you have a good time, Marinette." -he said. –"Give my regards, as well as your mom's, to Adrien and his father."

"I will, dad. You can count on it." -Marinette promised him, as she followed Gorilla.

Getting in the limousine, Marinette could not help but to remember the other times she had been picked up by Gorilla, who drove her to meet Adrien, at his place. Most of them had been to just hang out with him, while others, were to help him out with some homework or school project. But on that day, the reason why she had been picked up, was completely different. On that day, she was being taken to the mansion, for what was to be one of the most important moments in her life. Just the thought of it scared her, but Marinette tried not to be scared, as she hoped that when returning home, she would have what she wanted the most that day… Adrien's father approval, as well as his permission to date Adrien. Taking advantage of the limo's divisor being up, she decided to exchange a few words with Tikki, who was inside her purse.

"Here we go." -Marinette whispered to Tikki. –"There's no turning back now." -she told her.

"That's a good thing." -Tikki whispered to Marinette. –"Now, remember, stay calm and everything will be alright. Adrien will be by your side, so try not to go bonkers. And try to think positive." -she said.

"I'll try, Tikki. I promise." -Marinette whispered, before closing the purse.

For the rest of the trip, Marinette remained silent, trying to keep calm. Leaning against the door to her left side, she looked outside, through the window and wondered what the people that were on the street were going, or what they were thinking right then. Thinking about it, gave her something to think about, and not stress about what was yet to come. When they were already halfway to the mansion, Marinette's phone beeped, signalling her that she had received a text. Checking it, to see if it was from Adrien, she saw that it belonged to Alya, who was asking her if she was having fun drinking tea with her future father-in-law. She quickly texted her back, saying that she was on her way to the mansion, and that as for Gabriel being her future father-in-law, that was something that was yet to see, if turned out to be real, or not.

Arriving at the Agreste manor, Marinette felt more nervous than ever. For the first time, in what seemed like a very long time, she felt like the manor was observing her. She knew this was just her imagination, but it still bothered her. As she climbed the stairs to the front door, she could not help but to imagine the words "Abandon All Hope Ye Who Enter Here", just above the large door. Her nerves were making her think about stupid and unrelated things. Taking a deep breath, she tried her best to stay calm, as she knocked at the door, and this one open.

"Good afternoon, Miss Sancoeur." -Marinette greeted Nathalie, who had been the one to open the door for her.

"Good afternoon, Marinette." -Nathalie greeted her back. –"It's a pleasure to have you visiting us." -she smiled, as she allowed Marinette to enter the manor.

"The pleasure is all mine." -Marinette said, as her eyes searched for any sign of Adrien. He had texted her, saying that he would be there to greet her. –"Hmm… sorry to ask this, but where's Adrien?" -she asked Nathalie, as she closed the door.

"Oh, he's still in his bedroom. Monsieur Agreste insisted to have a little talk with you alone, before allowing Adrien to join." -Nathalie answered her. –"Monsieur Agreste is waiting in his study. Please, follow me." -she said, as she signalled her to follow her up the stairs.

Following Nathalie, Marinette's brain kicked into overdrive, thanks to her nerves and her anxiety. Just the thought of being alone with Gabriel, was making her climb up the walls.

"Oh my God, what do I do?! I was hoping to have Adrien by my side, when talking to his dad." -Marinette thought to herself, while trying not to panic. –"Calm down, Marinette, calm down. Everything is going to be alright. This is just Adrien's dad, who wishes to have a little talk. Everything's going to be alright… oh, who am I kidding?! He's probably going to take one look at me and tell me that I'm no good for Adrien, and that he's not going to allow him to date me. I just know it!" -she thought. –"Oh, stop it, Marinette! You're making it sound like he's a bogeyman and that you're in a horror movie. Remember to do what Tikki told you. Just breathe in, and out, and think positive."

But that was not an easy task. As she kept following Nathalie, Marinette's anxiety continued to make her brain think of every possible outcome that her conversation with Gabriel might have, with more than 90% of those possible outcomes, being rather bad. It did not help that the mansion's décor felt so cold and unsympathetic. Breathing in and out, she tried her best to keep those thoughts at bay, by also thinking about Adrien, and how much he meant to her.

Sensing that Marinette looked a little nervous, Nathalie decided to say a few words to tranquilize her.

"You have nothing to fear. Monsieur Agreste just wishes to have a little word with you." -Nathalie said, trying to make her feel more relaxed.

As they approached the study, the sound of music could be heard. Marinette immediately recognized the melody, as being Beethoven's composition "Fur Elise". Knocking on the door, Gabriel's voice was heard from inside, inviting them in. Nathalie swiftly turned the knob and opened the door, to reveal that the melody was coming not from a stereo, but from the piano inside the study, and that it was Gabriel who was playing it. This amazed Marinette, who did not know Gabriel played the piano. Adrien had mentioned that he himself played the piano, but he had never said anything about his father also playing it.

"Ah, I see that our guest has arrived." -Gabriel said in a solemn voice, as he continued to play.

"Yes, sir." -Nathalie said, as she allowed Marinette to enter the study.

"G-Good afternoon, Monsieur Agreste." -Marinette greeted Gabriel, while trying as hard as possible not to make an awkward smile. –"Focus, Marinette. You don't want to give him an awkward smile." -she thought to herself.

"You may leave us, Nathalie." -Gabriel said, without taking his eyes off the keyboard.

Once Nathalie closed the door behind her, Marinette was left alone with Gabriel, and when that happened, her brain once again went into hyperdrive, and she began to think of every possible negative outcome of the conversation she was about to have with Adrien's dad. As seconds went by, she tried to think of what to say to Gabriel. She had already greeted him, and was having a hard time coming up with a suitable conversational theme. She could always ask Tikki, who remained inside her purse, for a little help, but she did not want to risk Gabriel seeing her kwami, or thinking that she talked to herself. More than ever, she wished Adrien was there with her. As she thought of what to say next, her eyes roamed the whole room. She noticed Gabriel's desk, which was filled with numerous books and papers, as well as a laptop that was open. Next to it, there were two mannequins, and on the ground were numerous fabric samples. It occurred to Marinette that having things laying around, was something that most designers had in common. But what stood out the most in that room was the enormous painting of Emilie Agreste. The painting had been painted in a way that reminded her of Gustav Klimt's art style, and it was beautiful. It was clear to Marinette that the painting meant a lot to Gabriel, as it had been placed in a wall that made it visible, as soon as one entered the study. She thought about talking about it, but because it was a painting of his late wife, that the touching the matter was not a good idea, because if he was anything like his son, Emilie would be a very sensitive topic. And then, it hit her… the music.

"It's beautiful." –Marinette said. –"I didn't know you played the piano." -she said.

"Thank you. Fur Elise was my late wife's favourite classical arrangement by Beethoven." –Gabriel said, as the melody came to an end.

"She had good taste. I myself am more of a Mozart and Bach fan." -Marinette declared.

"Mozart and Bach? That s a little unusual for someone of your age, Miss Dupain-Cheng." -Gabriel commented. –"Most people you're age usually prefer music that is, how should I put it? A lot louder." -he said, as he closed the keyboard and got up from the bench.

"Well, I admit I don't listen to classic music all the time. But I do enjoy hearing them, whenever I need to clear my mind." -Marinette said.

There was a moment of silence between them, as Gabriel approached her. Looking at her garments, he quickly saw that they had been altered, and he recognized the stitching pattern, as belonging to Marinette. Hers was one of those patterns that stood out and were easily identifiable.

"I see that you have followed my advice and put it into action." -Gabriel said, as he examined her sweater-jacket. –"Your work had improved." -he said. –"From the looks of it, I can tell that you added the collar to this piece, and that you have also shortened its sleeves, due to the stitching on them."

"Uh… yes. The sleeves were too long, and… the collar, I just felt that it would be a nice addition to the sweater-jacket." -Marinette answered. –"Also, I'm someone who's usually a little cold around the neck, so it was imperative for me to added it." -she said.

"A keen eye for detail and practicality. Exactly what a fashion designer must have, when designing or altering a piece." -Gabriel told her.

After that compliment, which brightened Marinette's spirit, there was yet another long silence between her and Gabriel. She remained where she was, while he moved closer to his wife's painting, taking a couple of seconds to admire it.

"Lovely, don't you agree?" -Gabriel asked Marinette. –"It was a gift to Adrien's mother, on the year prior to her death. She was always a very big fan of Gustav Klimt. I tried to buy her an original, but most of his work is on a museum, and the few paintings that weren't, already belonged to someone. So, instead I ordered this painting." -he said. –"I ask you forgive me, but I'm a little melancholic today… I'm sure Nathalie has told you the reason why I asked to speak to you, before Adrien joined us."

"Uh… I'm afraid, she only told me that you wanted to speak to me, and has left the reason out." -Marinette said, as she walked towards Gabriel.

"Oh, I see. Then, I'll tell you myself." -Gabriel declared. –"When Adrien told me that you two had begun to date, I felt it was my responsibility, as his father, to see if the girl he had begun to date was, how shall I put it… that fits a person in Adrien's position. You must understand, being who he is, he cannot just engage in a romantic courtship with just about any girl, who's below his social standards, or who wants to take advantage of him." -he explained to her.

When he said those words, for a second, Marinette felt like she had travelled back in time to the wrong century. She knew that there were still many people and cultures, that still upheld certain standards, and valued the background from which people came from. But she innocently wanted to believe that in the 21st century, people had begun to be more liberal, when it came to such things. That did not seem Gabriel's case. Still, she understood why he was doing it. With Adrien being his only son, and him being the kind of overprotective father, Marinette already expected that.

"I understand, and I know that my social status, when compared to Adrien's or yours, is quite humble, Monsieur Agreste. But I firmly believe that social status should never be a replacement for hard work and perseverance." -Marinette answered him back with a calm, yet determined voice. –"My parents have taught me those principles, and those are the principles by which I guide myself." -she said.

Looking her in the eyes, Gabriel could see the truth in her eyes. Over the years, he had learned to see who was telling the truth, and who was lying, by just looking the people in the eyes, and Marinette was telling him the truth.

"I see. And could you tell me what are your intentions, regarding Adrien?" -Gabriel asked her.

"Oh no! What do I say?! What am I supposed to say?!" -Marinette thought to herself, while trying not to panic. –"Calm down, Marinette, calm down. Just answer truthfully, and let him know that you're not trying to take advantage of Adrien, or his wealth, or anything that might make you look like someone not fit for him." -she thought. –"W-Well, Monsieur Agreste… I can assure you that my intentions regarding Adrien are entirely noble, and in no way, am I trying to take advantage of him. I love him very much, and I wish nothing but the best for him, even if that means not having a part in his life."

Gabriel looked her once more, in the eyes. And once more, he could tell she was telling him the truth.

"I asked you this question, because as you know, Adrien is a very special young man. And I'm not just saying this because he's my son." -Gabriel said. –"Right now, he's the face of the Agreste brand, and who knows, maybe one day, if he chooses to do so, he might even succeed me, as the head of the Agreste empire." -he stated. –"I am sure that you can understand that I have put a lot of effort to give Adrien the best education possible, as well as making sure that in the future, he has everything he needs to succeed in life.

Marinette had imagined Gabriel would say something like that. She knew her boyfriend was not just an ordinary boy. She knew that he had been raised since an early age, to be part of the elite.

"And I'm sure you are doing a terrific work, Monsieur Agreste. I've never met anyone like Adrien." -Marinette said. –"Alright, don't butter him up too much. Just keep it simple, and let him know that you're not an idiot, who doesn't understand how the world works." –she thought to herself. –"Also, Adrien speaks very fondly of you, whenever he has the chance. There's no doubt he loves you very much."

Marinette was feeling incredibly nervous. She could feel her mouth drying up, and her heart beating unevenly inside her chest. On the outside, she looked calm and cool. But on the inside, she felt like she was about to have another nervous meltdown. She knew that every word she spoke, could make the difference between Gabriel allowing her to date Adrien, and refusing it. It all came to the words she chose, and as nervous as she was, she continued to tell herself to remain calm.

"Let me ask you this. If I told you that I did not wish you to see Adrien ever again, what would you do? Would you accept my decision, or would you go against it?" -Gabriel asked her.

Upon hearing the first part of that question, Marinette just felt like answering Gabriel, but she stopped herself, after realizing he was being rhetorical.

"I usually have a gift to see right through people, and to see just how they really are." -Gabriel went on. –"Of course, it doesn't mean I always get it right." -he admitted. –"But when we first met, you impressed me with just how mature you seem for your age, Miss Dupain-Cheng. The way you behaved and acted, you showed that you're not like some girls your age, who spend their time with their heads up in the clouds, and who don't have a single clue of what they want to do with their lives. And to me, that's a sign of a mature, responsible and well-behaved young woman. On top of it all, you do seem like you have Adrien's well-being above everything else."

"Thank you, but please, there's no need to call me by my last name. Marinette will do just fine, sir." -Marinette smiled. –"So far, so good. I hope I don't start sweating… oh, stop thinking about that, and focus, Marinette." -she thought.

"Very well, if you insist." -Gabriel said. –"Marinette, I'll be direct about this. I don't like the idea of Adrien dating someone. He shouldn't waste his time on that, when he's so young. Right now, he has to focus on his education, as well, as representing the Agreste brand, by being its face." -he declared, in an almost chilling voice.

When Gabriel told her that, Marinette's heart skipped a beat and the blood in her veins froze. In her mind, she began to see one of the numerous scenarios, where Adrien's father would forbid her from dating him, coming into fruition, and that made her start to panic, once more.

"Monsieur Agreste, I…" -Marinette said, before Gabriel prevented her from finishing that sentence.

"Please, allow me to finish." -Gabriel asked her, this time with a calmer and softer voice. –"Like I was saying, I'm not a big fan of Adrien wasting his time with romance, especially with his age. If my late wife was here, she would probably tell me that he's not a little child anymore, and that he needs to experience things first-hand. On that part, I agree. He's not a child anymore, but he's not a man yet, and it will be a few years, until that happens… But I do care about his happiness. Ever since he came back from summer camp last year, that I noticed that he seemed different; a lot happier. And a few weeks ago, I saw that happiness grow, and now I know the reason for it… you. You made him happier. And if he is happy, then I will be happy for him." -he smiled at her. –"What I'm trying to say is, that if Adrien wishes to date you, and you share the same sentiment, then I see no problem in it."

From the moment she had entered the Agreste manor, those were the words she wanted to hear the most. And once she heard them, Marinette felt like a huge weight had been lift off her shoulders. The anxiety inside her chest, was replaced by pure joy, as she heard Gabriel telling her that he was authorizing her Adrien to continue to date one another.

"But, allow me to warn you, as I will also warn him, once he joins us in a few minutes." -Gabriel said with a serious voice. –"Adrien has priorities, with school being the top of said priorities. If his grades start slipping, or I know that he decided to skip classes to go somewhere, when he was supposed to be in school, I'll know who to blame for it, and I'll put an end to this dating business." -he said. –"Do I make myself clear?"

"Absolutely." -Marinette declared. –"I can't believe he actually said yes! I couldn't be happier right now! I feel like dancing! This is the greatest moment of my life! Well, maybe not the best, but it's definitely on my top 5. That I'm sure of…. I wish Adrien was here, right now, so I could kiss him! No, wait, I can't kiss him in front of his dad!" -she thought to herself. –"I understand what you are saying, and I agree. My parents have also warned me about what would happen, if my grades dropped."

Unknown to both Marinette and Gabriel, but not to Tikki, who felt his presence, Plagg had seen and heard the whole thing. Because he could not be present, while his father had that talk with Marinette, Adrien sent the black cat kwami to spy on them, and report what was happening.

"Wait until the kid knows his old man has a heart, and decided to allow him and Marinette to date." -Plagg thought to himself.

You guys have no idea just how long it has been, since I came up with this chapter in my head. Marinette never had much interaction with Gabriel in my AU, so it was a bit tricky to write this conversation between them. The same thing could be said for Adrien's flashback.

Anyways, now that Gabriel has given these two his permission to date, I think it's safe to say that from here on, it'smooth sailing... or is it? xD We'll have to find that out. As always, feel free to comment, fav and leave your suggestions to improve this fic, or for future sequels. :)