TRUE COLORS
Note: thank you everyone for your support. You're the reason I'm able to express my thoughts like this.
8unnix: Um yes. Though a guy I'm talking to made a few puns and of course mind goes "omg chat?!" And that's funny haha. I try to make those moments lol. And yes, honestly since I saw you describe him as a cinnamon roll, I can't find a better description for him. Practice but I also know a site that gives me tons of suggestions so I'm not using "say" often. I can send you link in PM if you want. I love what you do, sounds a lot like me. Thanks for your review! Enjoy this chapter.
Rose Catulus: And I updated sooner this time! I think. Maybe… Glad you're liking my story and the relationship between Adrien and Marinette. And yes, spiders are terrifying. I saw a HUGE one the other day by my front door. With it's legs, it was as big as my hand. I nearly died. Thanks! I'm happy to see the amount of work I put in is appreciated and that you liked my light festival idea. Fun! Thanks, mine was normal.
Candyfloss5: Hope you had good movies to watch! I kinda hate holiday themed movies. They're so awful. And I can't tell you how annoyed I am by the amount of Christmas movies on Netflix right haha. Thanks!
Fan4evr12: Maybe, maybe not. Ah okay, makes sense.
Important: All partners/ groups were chosen by decide wheel. I worked off situations based on destiny. And I totally forgot to put the title in chapter 10. Why did no one tell me? Lol. Hope you enjoy this chapter.
True Colors
Chapter 12: Reasons to be Thankful
November 21st, Thursday
Marinette lightly taps her pen against the desk in Philosophy class. She has a lot on her mind and none of it has to do with the lesson. These thoughts overwhelm her, even with her amazing partner at her side. She can't help it! It's in her nature to worry and stress and want to fix the problem at hand. There's just got to be an easy solution to this. One that takes the weight off her shoulders.
"Very good Alya," the teacher's voice captures Marinette's attention. "Your excellent detective skills have once again come up with a creative answer."
Marinette flickers her eyes to Alya. That gets her thinking. Alya could be the answer to her own problem. But she can't do anything without running it by her kitty.
"Absolutely not," Adrien denies.
Adrien and Marinette are walking alone to their next class. The area is crowded, but the two are being discreet.
"Why not?" Marinette questions.
"Is this really the place to talk about it?" Adrien gestures to the people around.
"Adrien, I can't keep waiting."
Adrien pulls her aside so they're out of earshot and can talk more freely.
"What do you mean?"
Marinette sighs.
"I can't help but worry about this person or persons that are helping the Menaces. Aren't you the least bit concerned?"
"Of course I am. But asking Alya to investigate is a bad idea."
"How come?"
"Because she's going to have to dig deep. Find out who has a grudge against Ladybug. What if she discovers your secret identity in the process?"
"What that be so bad?"
Adrien's eyes widen, blinking several times to process the words she just said.
"What are you talking about? Alya can't know our secret identities."
"Why not? Because Master Fu told us? He's not here. You're the guardian now. We can change things."
"Why do you want her to know? You've never felt that way before."
"I have actually. It's always been in the back of my mind. We didn't want to tell anyone because of Hawk Moth, but he's gone now. Alya is Rena Rouge. Seems to me like we can trust her."
"Now you're talking about making her a permanent member of our team? We can't just leave a miraculous with her, or with anyone for that matter. Their identities have been compromised."
"We can," Marinette stresses. "I'm tired of it just being us, it's not enough."
Adrien is taken back and Marinette can physically see the hurt in his eyes. She closes hers immediately feeling guilty.
"I'm sorry. That's not what I meant," Marinette apologizes. "I love being your partner. The Menaces are different than Hawk Moth, and I don't know if we can handle them on our own. And now they have more people out there we don't know about. Maybe it's time to have more help."
Adrien nods his head, though he still feels hurt by her words. Intentional or not.
"I understand you're scared, I'm unsure about the future too, but I don't think it's a good idea to let Alya help or give out miraculouses. As guardian, your partner, and boyfriend, I hope you understand."
It's Marinette's turn to nod.
"Yeah. Maybe you're right. I'm just afraid. It took drastic measures to defeat Hawk Moth, and I don't want to go through that again," Marinette admits.
Adrien pulls her into a hug. She squeezes him tightly and buries her head in his chest. Adrien rubs her back.
"I know. I believe in us and what we can do. We'll find a way, we always do."
Marinette smiles. She could spend eternity in his arms. However, the bell rings. The two jump apart, realizing they're late, and run to class. On Marinette's way up to her seat, Alya grabs her arm.
"So where were you too?" Alya smirks.
Marinette's face begins to redden.
"W-We weren't doing anything! Just were in our own world is all," Marinette panics.
"I bet you were," Alya hints at.
Marinette scowls at her before sitting at her seat. Lila tries not to huff out loud. Marinette has become such a nuisance. At this rate, she'll never be with Adrien. What does he see in her anyway? Luckily, she has a plan up her sleeve, and it's about to be put into action.
"Morning class, now that everyone is here," Mr. Neve directs toward Adrien and Marinette. "We can begin. I have an announcement. I'm assigning a project."
Most of the class groans at that. School projects are never fun.
"Since we've been studying history in the United States lately, it's a good time to do this project. Can anyone tell me what next Thursday is for the U.S.?" Mr. Neve continues.
A few students raise their hand. Mr. Neve picks on Adrien.
"It's their Thanksgiving," Adrien answers.
"Correct. I want you guys to write a short essay on someone in history that has made a huge impact in our lives today. This person can be from American or French history. Though, I will give extra credit to those who choose to pick someone from American history. Also, you'll be working in pairs," Mr. Neve explains.
That last part gets some cheers.
"That I've assigned," Mr. Neve continues.
Again the groans return. Mr. Neve picks up a paper from his desk and reads out the names. He clears his throat.
"Here are the partners: Ivan and Sabrina, Félix and Nino, Alya and Kagami, Juleka and Chloe, Alix and Kim…"
Kim throws a punch in the air. Alix groans. She has a feeling getting Kim to do work will take more effort than the actual assignment.
"…Mireille and Ethan, Marc and Ondine, Mylène and Rose, Nathaniel and Aurore…"
Nathaniel smiles widely and looks over at Aurore. She isn't looking his way though, too busy writing something down. Marinette bites her lip. There's only a few people left she could be paired up with, and one is sitting beside her.
"… Marinette and Max, and lastly, Adrien and Lila," Mr. Neve finishes.
Adrien grimaces. He dislikes whenever he has to work with Lila. And now they're forced to work on a project together. Marinette isn't thrilled Lila will be working with Adrien either, but she has nothing to worry about. Adrien loves her. He's not suddenly going to go insane and start to like Lila.
"A little more information on the project. The essay should be two pages: have an introduction explaining where your person is from and his or her beginning, a few body paragraphs detailing some of their accomplishments or contributions and how that's influenced the world, and a conclusion stating how this person spent their last years alive and where they died. It's due next Thursday. And during class you and your partner will come to the front to give a brief presentation," Mr. Neve expands.
Everyone groans at that. No one likes to go to the front.
"When I say brief, I really mean brief. One person will introduce us to your person and the other will give one example of what they've done," Mr. Neve assures. "I will give an example from a different country. Winston Churchill was born November 30th, 1874 in England. He was an army officer, writer, member of Parliament, and Prime Minister. And then the other person could say… As prime minister, Churchill led the nation during the second World War. After the war he was involved in national and international politics. Oh and one last thing, two pairs can't do the same person, so once you choose someone, let me know. If you have any questions, please ask."
After that, Mr. Neve transitions to teaching a lesson. For the last ten minutes of class, he allows the class to move around and talk to their partner about the project. Max takes Lila's usual spot while she goes down to sit next to Adrien. Marinette can hear her laugh from her. It irritates her. Max tries to get Marinette's attention.
"Our chance of finishing this project is zero if you keep staring," Max points out.
"Sorry," Marinette faces Max. "Who do you want to do for the project?"
Though her eyes drift back to her boyfriend and enemy. Did she move closer?!
"I was thinking we could do an inventor in American history like Thomas Edison," Max suggests. "And you shouldn't worry. Anyone can see how much Adrien cares for you."
Marinette's head snaps up and her eyes focus on Max again.
"What?! I mean I-I wasn't… we're fine," Marinette stammers.
Max smiles.
"It's natural to be upset. Your biggest enemy is trying to date your boyfriend. But Lila is more likely to win the lottery than Adrien's affection," Max elaborates.
Marinette calms with a smile.
"Thanks Max," Marinette breathes easier. "And I think Thomas Edison is a perfect choice. I'll let Mr. Neve know, so no one else takes him."
Max nods. Marinette walks down the steps and stands behind Sabrina and Ethan to talk to Mr. Neve. While waiting her turn, Marinette can't help but overhear the conversation between Adrien and Lila.
"So I was thinking we could work on the project at your house. My place isn't the ideal spot," Lila proposes.
"I'm not sure that's such a good idea," Adrien remembers past times with her in his room. "We could just work on it during study hall."
"But we don't have the same class for either study hall," Lila protests.
"Oh right," Adrien forgot. "Then how about the library after school."
Many witnesses… students are there every day.
"What if it's too loud and we can't concentrate?" Lila inquires.
"It's a library," Adrien deadpans. "Plus we'll have access to books for research. And computers to type everything up."
"Marinette?" Mr. Neve gets her attention.
Marinette looks at the teacher and clears her throat. She hadn't noticed that it was her turn.
"Sorry. Max and I will do Thomas Edison," Marinette relays.
"Excellent choice," Mr. Neve writes it down. "Let me know if you have any questions."
Marinette nods before turning around. Adrien is writing down something, but Lila is glaring at her. She must have noticed Marinette eavesdrop.
"I'm going to tell Mr. Neve our decision," Lila tells.
"Alright," Adrien half pays attention.
Lila stands up and purposefully bumps her shoulder against Marinette. She rolls her eyes and sits back down next to Max. The bell rings. While walking to class, Alya wraps her arm around Marinette.
"I'm borrowing my best friend for a moment," Alya states rather asks for permission.
"Just return her in one piece," Adrien jokes.
"We'll see," Alya winks.
She forces Marinette to walk quicker and catch up with Kagami.
"So what did Lila say to you? Did she threaten you? Hurt you?" Alya interrogates.
"What? When?" Marinette puzzles.
"In class just now," Alya clarifies.
"Oh. She didn't say anything. She just bumped into me," Marinette replies.
"She's up to something. It's so unfair she's partners with Adrien. I bet Lila will do everything she can to get close to him," Alya scowls.
"Lila can try all she wants. Adrien isn't the type to cheat," Marinette notes.
"True. Adrien is faithful, honest, and kind. He would never hurt Marinette," Kagami agrees.
"I know that. But this is Lila. She's manipulative and evil. You should still watch out for her," Alya advises.
"I trust Adrien. It's not like they'll be alone. They'll be in the library after school," Marinette stands firm.
"It's not Adrien you have to worry about. It's Lila. She's not going to waste this opportunity," Alya counters.
"You said they'll be in the library, maybe we should work on the project there too," Kagami implies.
"What?! No, I didn't mean to spy on them!" Marinette argues.
"Kagami, I like the way you think," Alya concurs. "The library is the perfect place to work on our project."
"I'm staying out of it," Marinette decides.
"Okay, okay. No more talking about Lila, let's talk about our sleepover," Alya changes topics.
"Right. Who's coming? What day is it? Where?" Marinette asks.
"I was thinking of inviting all the girls on Friday night. Since my parents and sisters aren't going away this weekend, like I thought, I was thinking we could do it at your house," Alya voices.
"I'm not sure I have enough room for all of us," Marinette ponders.
"What about your place?" Alya turns to Kagami.
"My mother would never allow such a thing at her house," Kagami shakes her head.
"Well where else can we have our sleepover?" Alya wonders.
"Did you say sleepover?" Chloe appears with Sabrina.
"Yeah, we're planning a sleepover with all the girls, but don't know where. We can't do it at any of our places," Marinette confirms.
"Well why didn't you just ask?" Chloe rolls her eyes. "We can have it at my daddy's hotel."
"You sure? It'd be tomorrow night. Is that enough notice for your dad?" Alya questions.
"Oh please. My father has planned bigger events with less time," Chloe waves it off.
"It would be fun," Marinette nudges Alya.
"Hmm good point. Alright, Chloe's place it is. I'll send out a text to all the girls," Alya starts typing.
English goes by quickly and soon it's time for lunch. Most of the group decides to sit in the cafeteria again. Some of the girls are talking about the party.
"Sorry I can't go to the party. I have family over and I don't get to see them often," Denise frowns.
"No problem. We'll have another one next month I'm sure," Marinette ensures.
"Did I hear something about a party?" Kim perks up.
"Maybe," Chloe crosses her arms.
"Awesome! I'm in!" Kim invites himself.
"You can't. It's a sleepover, girls only," Alix rolls her eyes.
"Aww," Kim sulks.
"Yeah sorry you guys are going to miss out on the best party ever," Alya sticks out her tongue.
"Hold up, what makes you think your party is going to be so great without us there?" Nino interrupts.
"Because girls know how to party," Sabrina gushes. "Pillow fights."
"Movies," Mylène adds.
"Delicious snacks," Ondine says, one hand on her stomach.
"Nails," Rose beams.
"Music," Juleka fixes her hair shyly.
"Gossip," Chloe contributes.
"And all the crazy mischief," Alya laughs.
"Girl parties don't sound all that great," Félix disagrees.
"Like boys could have more fun than a bunch of girls at a sleepover. We invented that," Aurore challenges.
"Oh is that a challenge? Because we'd definitely win," Nino goads.
"You're on. We'll be at Chloe's so good luck topping that," Marinette accepts.
"Yeah, well, we'll be at Adrien's," Nathaniel responds.
"Wait, when did we decide that? Why my place?" Adrien questions.
"Uh because it's the best place out of all of us dude," Nino reasons.
"So if it's a challenge, are there rules? A prize?" Alix puts out here.
"We'll think of some rules, but yes there has to be a prize for the winner," Alya agrees.
"First group to be jealous of the other has to do be the other's servant for a week," Félix comes up with.
"A whole week?" Mireille repeats.
"Are you already backing down?" Adrien dares.
"No way," Marinette smirks.
"Okay rules then, what are they?" Ivan inquires.
"Rule one, you can't leave the building," Alya starts.
"Seems unfair since you have a whole hotel to roam in," Marc brings up.
"Too bad. Rule two, can't have anyone over that's not part of the sleepover," Alya continues.
"Except for guests or family that have to be there," Chloe reissues.
"Rule three, anyone who falls asleep is out of the competition and can't participate any longer," Kim asserts.
"Rule four, both groups have to constantly be videoed. Guess we could set up a video chat so we can see what the others are doing," Max prompts.
"Rule five, if your group is caught for getting into trouble, they automatically lose," Ondine finishes.
With that, the challenge is confirmed.
"How many girls are there going to be at your sleepover?" Adrien asks.
"Twelve," Alya counts.
"No fair! We don't have that many guys," Nino complains.
"Then I suggest you find some," Aurore urges.
With the stakes high, the two groups separate into guys and girls.
"Dudes, we can't lose. How many do we have?" Nino leads.
"There's eight of us here," Marc notices.
"We still need four more," Max straightens his glasses.
"Alright, then let's invite more. There's Luka," Félix comes up with.
"We could invite Wayhem and… Paul too," Nathaniel suggests.
"That still leaves one more person," Nathaniel points out.
"What about Ethan?" Adrien wonders.
"We don't really know the guy," Kim shakes his head.
"So? We went to a Halloween party with him. He's in our class. It wouldn't be weird to invite him," Adrien defends.
"He has a good point. Let's do it," Nino supports.
Both sides now have twelve members, each group looking forward to crushing the other. Only one team can come up on top though.
November 22nd, Friday
The night of the sleepover. Both sides agree it would be best to begin at the same time. So at five everyone starts to arrive at their parties. In Chloe's room, the girls come in and set up their phones somewhere so they can be filmed. The guys do the same in Adrien's room. Now the guy's party is projected on Chloe's TV while the girl's party is displayed on Adrien's TV. Max and Markov set everything up.
"It looks great. Thanks for doing that," Adrien places his hand on Max.
"No problem," Max adjusts his glasses. "It really wasn't that hard."
Looking around the room, Adrien can see almost everyone is here. His parents step into the room.
"Are you sure you'll be okay if we're out for the night?" Emilie worries.
"We'll be fine. It's not like we'll be home alone," Adrien reminds.
"Yes dear, they'll be fine. Let your bodyguard know if you need anything. And don't go too crazy," Gabriel instructs.
"Alright father, we'll be good," Adrien promises.
"Yes dear, let's go. We don't want to miss our reservation," Emilie gently tugs on his arm.
With a final nod, Gabriel and Emilie leave for the evening. On their way out, Ethan and Paul arrive.
"Cool, that means everyone is here. Let's play some ball!" Nino suggests.
"I'll ref," Max volunteers. "Does anyone not want to participate."
Ivan sits off to the side, crossing his arms. He nods.
"The teams will be even now," Ivan reasons.
"Okay, what are the teams?" Ethan asks.
Max types on his watch.
"I'm setting up a randomizer. Team one: Félix, Luka, Ethan, Wayhem, and Paul. Team two: Adrien, Nino, Nathaniel, Marc, and Kim," Max divides.
"Alright let's move this couch and get started!" Kim exults.
Some of the girls watch the encounter with the guys.
"Boys," Alya shakes her head.
"They're getting started. We better do something," Ondine presses.
"Yes, what's first on the agenda?" Kagami questions.
Chloe holds up a fake mustache on a stick with one hand and a hat with the other.
"Time for pictures girls!" Chloe announces.
The girls cheer. Chloe has a backdrop against one of her walls. A camera faces it. The girls all try on one of the accessories before standing in front of the camera. It begins to snap pictures as the girls change poses. After a few pictures, they try on something else. Going from everyone in the picture, they take turns in small groups.
The boys aren't really paying attention to the girls as they play intensely. After only twenty minutes of playing, the guys are ready to do something that requires less exercise in tight space. They make their way to the foosball table for a small tournament.
"Teams of two, what you got Max?" Wayhem effuses.
Max types on his watch.
"First match, Luka and Nathaniel vs. Adrien and Ethan. Second match, Marc and Wayhem vs. Nino and Paul. And thirdly, Ivan and Kim vs. Félix and me," Max reads.
"It's so on! You all might as well drop out now," Kim challenges.
"Like hell! You better win your group so we can take you down!" Nino steps up.
While the boys are being… well competitive boys, the girls break out the karaoke machine. They have the words presented on a second TV Chloe has.
"Groups of three! Let's do this!" Alya feels pumped.
"I'll write everyone's names and mix them in this bowl. That way it's completely random," Rose bubbles.
Of course with each name comes with a pretty little design that's very Rose.
"Who wants to draw the names out?" Sabrina asks.
"I will," Juleka slightly raises her hand.
She fixes her hair as she reaches into the bowl. Three papers come out at a time.
"Ondine, Chloe, and me," Juleka reads.
"Nice! I know the perfect song we should do," Chloe smirks.
"Marinette, Aurore, and Rose," Juleka picks three more papers.
"Oh yay! Can I pick the song?" Rose requests.
"Sure, you have good taste," Aurore agrees.
"Only if we can rock!" Marinette recommends.
"Kagami, Sabrina, and Mireille," Juleka continues.
"We will do a classical one," Kagami decides.
"I'm not sure they have those on this machine," Mireille informs.
"Alya, Alix, and Mylène," Juleka finishes off.
"We got this," Alix determines.
"We're not competing," Mylène interjects.
"I'm always competing," Alix counters.
"I'm with you girl!" Alya wraps her arm around Alix and Mylène.
The four selected groups each take their turn. Then anyone who wants to sing another song goes with a partner or two. The crowd dance and jump around.
The sound of a knock on the door interrupts the loud laughter and cries from the boys. Adrien opens his door to see his bodyguard holding boxes of pizza.
"Thanks," Adrien grabs them with a smile.
His bodyguard nods before leaving, heading back to the quiet of his own room.
"Pizza!" Wayhem beams.
The boys dig in, not bothering to use plates or napkins. Max and Kim turn on the computers and soon everyone is gathered around to play games in between pizza slices.
A quarter past six, someone knocks on Chloe's door. Her butler is on the other side with a cart of food.
"Your order Mademoiselle," he pushes the cart and lifts the lid.
The girls gasp in "Oo"s and "Awe"s. The burgers, mac and cheese, and salad are exactly what they need. Every bite is more delicious than the last.
"Did your mom cook these?" Marinette directs at Alya.
"Her or one of the other staff, but it does taste like her cooking," Alya guesses.
"I'm coming to your house for every meal," Aurore declares.
"She's so amazing!" Rose praises.
The girls sit on the floor among the numerous blankets and pillows. They talk and laugh when their mouth isn't stuffed with food. When most of the food has been mostly consumed, they decide to play a little game of sorts.
"Alright, no slumber party is complete without a little gossip," Chloe determines. "I say we all get to ask one person any question we want. And they must answer."
"Oh that sounds like fun!" Sabrina claps lightly.
"I love it!" Alya agrees.
"Why don't we use the papers that Rose made for the karaoke?" Mireille suggests.
"Good idea," Ondine stands to grab it. "I'll pick who gets to ask the first question."
Alix is drawn from the bowl.
"Sweet. Anyone could be at my mercy," Alix smirks.
"I just hope that person doesn't end up being me," Aurore side whispers to Ondine.
"And I hope I don't get Alya," Ondine whispers back.
Alix picks the next paper.
"Mireille, hmm… have you ever messed up at the TVi studio and covered it up?" Alix questions.
Mireille's eyes go wide while some of the other girls are confused by the question.
"Why would you ask something like that?" Marinette wonders.
"Mireille is one of the sweetest girls I know," Mylène defends.
"Well…" Mireille awkwardly interjects.
All eyes turn to her. Alix's smirk grows bigger and she folds her arms.
"Well?" Alix presses.
"Well, there was this one time," Mireille speaks slowly. "I accidentally broke the boss's prized vase."
"You broke Arlette's super rare vase?!" Aurore outbursts.
"It was an accident," Mireille's face grows red. "I ran out of her office and hid the pieces in the potted plant down the hall."
Alix bursts out laughing. Some others try to cover their giggles. Aurore rubs her back soothingly.
"You're lucky she hates that plant and can buy another super expensive, ridiculous vase," Aurore bites her lip from laughing.
Mireille nods. She holds out her hand to pull someone's paper. Thinking what to ask, it takes her a moment to voice a question.
"Chloe," Mireille calls out. "Who and when was your first real kiss?"
"WHAT?!" Chloe explodes.
While Chloe freaks out and the girls laugh, all the boys are gathered around the TV watching them.
"This is so much better than video games," Paul decides.
The others agree. With Chloe's meltdown finished, her face remains red as she answers.
"We were ten," Chloe spills.
"Who's we?" Alya pokes.
"Félix," Chloe mumbles out, but everyone hears.
"Me?! She told me you were her first kiss!" Félix points to Adrien.
"What? I've never kissed her!" Adrien protests.
"Félix? I thought you couldn't stand him back then. You were all over Adrien," Marinette teases.
"Yes well," Chloe clears her throat. "Félix wouldn't shut up so I kissed him. And I told him not to tell anyone because I didn't want Adrien to find out."
"And yet, now he's your boyfriend," Alya sticks out her tongue.
With a huff, Chloe picks out the next paper and smirks. Perfect.
"Fate is being kind to me. Alya," Chloe emphasizes. "How far have you gone with Nino?"
Instead of answering, Alya whacks Chloe with a pillow.
"The hell is that kind of question?" Alya fumes.
"One you have to answer," Chloe stands her ground.
Alya's jaw tightens. She'll get back at Chloe for this.
"We've made out quite a few times. And one time he touched my boob. He said it was an accident, but not sure it was," Alya admits.
The guys look at Nino, who's covering his face.
"It totally was!" Nino insists.
Alya moves the game along and picks Rose.
"Are you still in love with Prince Ali?" Alya asks.
"We're just really good friends. I don't see us as anything more. You all know who I like now," Rose smiles.
She happily doesn't stop a beat to grab a paper.
"Oh yay Aurore! So we've all been wondering, Nathaniel or Marc?" Rose chirps.
Said boys lean closer to the TV as if that would help. Everyone knows what Rose is talking about so she doesn't elaborate. Aurore's lips form a tight line.
"I couldn't say," Aurore vaguely responds.
For the guys it's not enough, but the answer satisfies the girls. Aurore picks Kagami.
"Were you completely over Adrien when Luka asked you out?" Aurore wonders.
"Adrien wanted to remain friends. I moved on," Kagami monotones.
"Way to make a guy feel special," Adrien jokingly complains.
Marinette is chosen next.
"Do you think Adrien really loves you?" Kagami queries.
Marinette blinks, momentarily losing herself.
"I'm sorry. What do you mean?" Marinette puzzles.
"Do you think Adrien really loves you?" Kagami repeats. "I know he loved someone when we both were crushing on him. He settled for me, but then he broke up with me because he was in love with someone else. I know it wasn't you because I asked. I never understood how he ended up with you. Did he settle for you too?"
Marinette wasn't prepared for that question. Neither was anyone else. Marinette knows Adrien had a crush on her, her other self. How does she explain it all without revealing their identities?
"It's complicated," Marinette opts for.
"That's not a real answer," Sabrina argues.
Marinette sighs. Doesn't look like any of the other girls will accept that answer either.
"Adrien did like someone else. It wasn't going to work out. We became closer friends and it just happened I guess," Marinette explains best she can.
"So you're his rebound?" Alix questions.
"No! He loves me. He does," Marinette persists. "It wasn't a traditional way of getting there, but he does. Adrien really loves me, like I love him."
"I don't know girl. More I hear about this, less I'm convinced. I was so happy for you that I didn't get all the details. I don't remember you two spending that much time together," Alya adds.
"It… wasn't face-to-face," Marinette comes up with. Not his civilian face anyway. "I think I was supposed to answer one question. Not give my whole life story. Who's next?"
Marinette pulls Mylène's name out.
"I heard you've been assisting your dad with some gigs, is that true?"
"Yes. It's embarrassing. I stand in front of crowds and usually humiliate myself."
Mylène picks Sabrina.
"Have you kept in contact with Delmar since we left New York?"
Sabrina nods with a slight blush on her cheeks.
"He talk at least once a week or so. But we're so far away from each other, it's hard," Sabrina sulks.
"Maybe I can convince my parents to take us to New York over the break," Chloe offers.
Sabrina's eyes and entire face light up.
"Oh Chloe! Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Sabrina hugs her tightly.
Without a word, Marinette stands.
"You okay?" Alya notices.
"Just need some fresh air. I'm fine," Marinette slightly smiles.
Marinette exits the room to Chloe's balcony. The stars are out, even though it doesn't feel that late. Her eyes are transfixed on them.
"You okay?"
Marinette nearly falls to the ground by that voice.
"What are you doing here? If one of the girls comes out they'll ask questions," Marinette scolds.
"I had to make sure my Princess was alright," Cat Noir justifies.
He sits on the rail next to her.
"I'm fine. You didn't have to come all this way. Speaking of which, where do all the guys think you are?"
"Downstairs, trying to talk to you."
Marinette shakes her head.
"You're breaking the rules. We weren't supposed to leave the building."
"Nothing is more important to me than you. I'd lose anything if it meant making you happy."
Marinette smiles.
"That's so cheesy."
"Well I am a cat."
"Mice like cheese. Not cats."
"Right. With Plagg as a kwami I forget that."
Marinette giggles. She grabs Cat's hands.
"You know I know you love me, right? I wasn't your second choice. And you weren't mine. I may never get to tell the girls the whole truth, but we know it," Marinette assures.
"I know. But I'm not the one who needed some air."
Marinette nods, he has a point.
"I guess…" Marinette hesitates. "I just hate that all our friends don't know this whole side to us. We're always lying, making excuses, never seeing everything we are and do. And yes, I know it's for their protection. I'm not about to go share identities, but some days are harder than others to deal with it."
"I know what you mean. And maybe one day they'll know."
"Yes, maybe. Now, you should get back to your party, and I should do the same."
"Fine, but let me know if you need me to come back."
"How?"
"We can use code words!" Cat beams. "Just say… cheese, and I'll be here in a heart beat."
Marinette shakes her head. How would she casually mention that in a sentence? No worries. She'd find a way if she really needed him.
"And how will I know you understand to come? You'll have to say… goose back."
"Goose?! How am I going to work that into a conversation?"
"You'll think of something," Marinette drops his hands to flick his bell.
Staring longingly into each other's eyes, they lean in close. Both close their eyes. They're mere centimeters away when Cat's ears twitch from an approaching noise. Alya steps onto the balcony.
"Girl, you okay?"
Marinette's eyes flutter open. Cat Noir is no longer beside her. Luckily Marinette is facing away from Alya, so she can't see Marinette's face. She clears her throat and turns around.
"Yep," Marinette smiles. "I'm ready to go back in."
"Good, because it's utter chaos in there."
"I can't believe you asked me that question."
"You had it coming!"
Some of the girls hit each other with pillows. The noise level rises.
"HEY!" Marinette gets their attention.
A few silence moments later and Marinette holds up a pillow.
"Pillow fight!" Marinette declares.
With screams, cheers, and laughter, the girls grab a pillow and start defending their lives. The guys stare at the screen in confusion.
"What's so satisfying about hitting each other with pillows?" Kim wonders.
"Let's find out," Nino whacks him with a pillow.
It doesn't take much for the guys to start a fight of their own. Adrien sneaks into the chaos, hitting just as intensely. Fifteen minutes later or so, both groups decide to put in a movie. The guys decide on a scarier one while the girls choose a romantic comedy. The girls laugh and cry, throw popcorn and grab tissues. The guys hide behind blankets and fake confidence. The girl's movie ends slightly before the guy's.
"What should we do now?" Mireille inquires.
"I've always wanted to dance in the ballroom," Aurore shrugs.
"Oh how fun!" Sabrina approves.
"I remember doing that when we were little. We would dress up and have the staff play music and dance with us," Marinette reminisces.
"Let's do it!" Alya stands.
"Don't forget to dress up. Grab any accessory you can find," Chloe allows.
The girls grab jackets, hats, scarves, or heels to take with them. Before leaving the room, they remember to take their phones. They race to the ballroom not so quietly. Luckily the room is empty, seeing as the event has already been cleaned up. Chloe uses her phone to blast some tunes. The girls jump around and dance. They dance in pairs or all together. The room is full of joy. The guys only briefly glance at their fun before deciding on what they should do next themselves. Adrien ordered a bunch of glow-sticks. All the guys put one around their necks and wrists. After turning off all the lights in the house, they run around playing tag. They may be teenage guys, but who cares?
After dancing for about half an hour, the girls start to feel hungry and in need of full.
"Why don't we order room service?" Mylène asks.
"The kitchen closed at nine today," Chloe notifies.
"No reason we can't sneak in there," Alya suggests.
"The doors will be locked," Chloe shakes her head.
"We'll bust the door open," Kagami implies.
"Or," Marinette stresses. "One of us sneaks down the service elevator and unlocks the doors."
"Where did you get an idea like that?" Alix questions.
"Ladybug," Marinette smiles sweetly.
"Guess that means you don't mind being the one to go in," Chloe smirks.
"No problem! I'll meet you guys at the door," Marinette winks.
She finds the service elevator and goes down to the kitchen. It's completely dark. She has to use her phone for a screen and light. After unlocking the kitchen door, she opens the door that leads to the dining room. The girls are waiting on the other side.
"Let's get this food party started!" Alya pumps.
The girls flood the kitchen looking for any sweets they can find.
"I was hoping for some cake," Rose slightly frowns.
"Me too," Juleka voices.
"Oh! Idea! Marinette, why don't you bake one? I'm sure you know all your parents' best recipes," Sabrina comes across the idea.
"I guess I know a few by heart," Marinette rubs the back of her head.
"Well get baking! Tell us what you need," Ondine chips in.
Baking turns into a whole mess. Flour gets thrown. Eggs get cracked. A war outbreaks. Though some cake bins are placed in the oven. In between tosses of food across the room, the girls look for decorations and candies.
The guys, feeling like their party is behind, decide to embark on their own mischief.
"So are we going to my kitchen too?" Adrien asks.
"Dude I can't bake!" Nino shakes his head.
"And it's not really the same when you can go into the kitchen whenever you want," Félix adds.
"So where can we sneak in at Adrien's house?" Ethan inquires.
"Mr. Agreste's office," Kim smirks.
"No way!" Adrien's eyes widen. "That's worse than breaking into the Louvre after hours!"
"Oh come on. You really want to be upstaged by the girls?" Luka reminds.
Adrien sighs.
"He can't ever know about this," Adrien relents.
"Well I'm not saying anything," Nathaniel shivers.
All the guys agree. The guys walk down the silent hall, waiting for something to jump out at them. No different than the movie they watched earlier. Once at the door, the guys stop.
"So how do we get in?" Wayhem wonders.
Adrien holds his shirt where Plagg is hiding. Should he risk it? Max steps forward and uses a tool to unlock the door.
"It's simple really," Max unlocks the door.
"Dude, sometimes you can be scary," Marc says what everyone is thinking aloud.
Ivan reaches for the light switch.
"Don't turn it on!" Adrien stops him quickly. "The cameras will pick us up."
Ivan retracts his hand with a nod. The guys look around trying to see through the darkness. The only light is coming from their phones.
"So…" Paul draws out. "Is there something we should do in here besides stand in the dark?"
"Yeah, I thought it'd be more fun than this," Ethan agrees.
"Well what do you suggest we do?" Adrien returns.
The guys are silent.
"Let's look at his upcoming designs," Ivan decides.
The guys seem thrilled by the idea, but then how girly that might make them.
"Does that make us seem too…" Nino starts.
"Girl?" Félix finishes.
"Yeah," Nino nods.
"Not if we hold it over the girls that they don't get to see," Luka smirks.
"I knew he had a dark side!" Kim wraps his arm around Luka.
"They're going to freak, especially Marinette," Adrien chuckles.
"Adrien?! You're looking at designs without me?" Marinette glares.
"Sorry sunflower, you know parties," Adrien winks.
Most of the girls are glaring at the guys. How low of them.
"Shouldn't you be finishing your cheese pizza? Or eating other cheese foods?" Marinette prompts.
"Why are you obsessed with cheese all of a sudden?" Alya wonders.
"Yeah, Marinette. You're such a silly duck," Adrien diverts.
"Isn't the expression "silly goose"?" Max corrects.
"I like duck better," Adrien winks at Marinette.
Her glare intensifies. Adrien opens his father's podium and swipes through some of the designs. With each new one, the guys exaggerate their excitement just to tease the girls. They almost miss the oven timer going off. Marinette takes the cake out and immediately puts it into the freezer to cool. The girls go back to the tasks to distract themselves from the guys.
"I found ice cream!" Chloe announces.
"And I got some bowls," Sabrina adds.
Ten minutes later, the girls take the cake (now beautifully decorated in icing), ice cream, bowls, spoons, and candy from the kitchen. Marinette locks the doors behind them and sneaks up the service elevator. They meet back in Chloe's room to change into swim suits. They remember to cover the cameras, though the guys can still hear them. Freshly changed, the girls take their desserts and towels up to the pool on the roof. Now past closing time, the girls have the whole roof to themselves.
Thankfully the pool is filled with water today. They sit in the lounge chairs, eating cake, ice cream, and candy. With full bellies, they hop into the warm water. It feels nice against the chilly air. The guys, definitely not feeling left out, gather a bunch of water guns and balloons. They fill them with water, along with placing random buckets of water throughout the rooms.
"Now for the rules," Max organizes. "The game is capture the flag. One team will have base upstairs while the other will be downstairs. If you're hit by someone with water, you must start back at your own base. First team to capture the other's flag wins."
"And what will be the teams?" Marc asks.
Max types on his watch.
"Nathaniel, Adrien, Kim, Wayhem, Ivan, and I versus Ethan, Nino, Félix, Luka, Paul, and Marc," Max calibrates.
Everyone is in agreement. They're given ten minutes to find a place to hide the flag (that must be able to be spotted clearly), come up with a strategy, and aim cameras within view for the girls to see.
"I say we go in strong! They can't take us all down," Kim advises.
"Or we could send three people on offense and three on defense," Nathaniel deliberates.
"Guys, you're both wrong," Ivan shakes his head. "We ask the smartest."
He gestures his head to Max and folds his arms. Max thinks.
"We'll send three people to retrieve the flag, one will guard this room, and two will guard a few rooms down," Max decides.
"The other room? But the flag is in this room, shouldn't we have more manpower in this room?" Wayhem questions.
"Exactly. The other team will expect us to heavily guard the room we have the flag. A simple case of diversion," Max strategizes.
"I like it," Adrien supports as the timer goes off. "Looks like it's go time!"
By this time, the girls and guys aren't paying attention to the other. Someone could have broken the rules and no one would have known. Much later, both sides have changed into sleepwear and roll out their sleeping bags. The guys lounge around while playing video games. The girls are painting nails with a movie playing in the background. Some are paying more attention to it than others.
Marinette looks down at her phone and laughs.
"What's so funny?" Alya inquires.
"It's nearly two in the morning," Marinette shows them.
Most everyone checks their phone to see it's true.
"I guess it is getting pretty late," Adrien agrees.
No one can sleep though. Not with the competition in play. Nino sighs and rubs the back of his head.
"We could call it. We're all getting tired. And well… I think the girls win this one," Nino discloses.
"Your party looked fun too, but we told you, girls know how to party," Chloe winks.
"We'll work out the details on that deal with you guys serving us for a week later, but now we're going to finish this movie then head to bed. Bye boys," Alya sticks out her tongue.
All devises stop transmitting a video. With the girls feeling victorious and the boys feeling exhausted, everyone heads to sleep.
November 28th, Thursday
Adrien and Lila are standing in the front of the class in history and geography.
"And that's why Susan Anthony made a huge impact in the lives of women in America," Adrien concludes.
The students and teacher clap. Before Adrien and Lila can sit, the bell rings.
"Alright students, don't forget to read chapter fourteen. I'll see you next week," Mr. Neve dismisses.
While the students pack up their things, Mr. Neve stops Adrien.
"You did great Adrien. I can tell you put a lot of work into this as always. You should be the one presenting my lectures from now on," Mr. Neve lightly jokes.
"Thanks," Adrien smiles back.
Marinette waits for him just outside the classroom. Adrien grabs her hand and intertwines their fingers. She hums as they walk to their next class. He's deep in thought.
"Marinette," Adrien says before his thoughts are fully processed.
Her hums immediately stop to hear what he has to say. Even though he got her attention, Adrien takes a second to phrase this question.
"Do you think I'd be a good teacher?" Adrien asks slowly.
His eyes finally land on her. Her smile and cheerfulness is absent.
"No," Marinette replies easily.
Adrien is shocked by her response, but maybe that's for the best. That is until a smile spreads across her face.
"I think you'll make a great teacher. I could see you teaching science."
Adrien smiles.
"I think that's what I want to do."
"Then go for it. Professor Kitty."
They both laugh as they enter English. Adrien kisses her cheek before sitting across from her. Throughout the class, Adrien can't help but smile at his loving, supportive girlfriend as she writes on her paper. Sometime amongst the lecture, she looks up. He's been caught. She slides the paper across the table to him. He opens the paper and nearly bursts out laughing. It's a picture of a cat teaching, with the words "Professor Kitty" written on the board. Adrien looks back up at Marinette mouthing, "I love you". She mouths back "I love you more". Adrien highly doubts that.
Thank you everyone for reading this chapter. I saw some good guesses, but no one mentioned the clue. Therefore, hope you all keep guessing. And the question: Does anyone have Thanksgiving plans (if you're from the U.S.) or if you're not from the U.S. anything fun this autumn. I personally don't. Flying home for Christmas, so I'll be here for Thanksgiving. Oh, and all the families I nanny for (except 1) is going back to preschool. Means I'm out of a job. Oof. Pray for me!