The car ride to the interview was silent, but pleasant. Adrien refused to let go of Ella's hand, even after Nathalie sent them a look before returning her attention to her phone. The older woman had texted Mr. Agreste about his son's company, and was surprised when the man allowed it. All he asked was that Nathalie gather as much information as she could about the girl, as he had an interest in who his son was so keen on being with.
"Miss Maunt-"
"Please, just call me Ella. I'm not-"
"Don't even try to finish that sentence." Adrien squeezed her hand, drawing a deeper blush.
"Ella. How long have you and Adrien been friends?"
"Umm.. since the beginning of the school year? We met in class and just kind of... clicked." Ella smiled gently.
"Mhm. And what are you intentions with this friendship?"
"Nathalie!"
"My intentions? Like besides being friends?"
"Sorry Ella... Nathalie means that... well in the past, some people have pretended to be my friends just to get close to my dad and all. With the Agreste name and all- to use it for leverage and stuff."
"Why would I do that? Regrettably, I have my own name people have used like that... so I know how it feels. Why would I try and do that when I know how much it hurts? You're my friend Adrien, and I would never do anything in my control to hurt you." Ella squeezed his hand tight, meeting his eyes. Something swelled in Adrien's chest, filling him and making him feel warm. His fingers in Ella's grasp tingled, and his lips settled in a soft, sweet smile.
"Thanks Ella..."
"You're welcome, Adrien..."
Nathalie let out her own soft smile, ending the audio recording and sending it to Gabriel.
Ella sat just out of camera angle during the interview, writing in her journal. Section three of her music assignment was coming up due and she was writing the theme of the third verse as 'hope'. Her pen slowed, her gaze traveling back up to Adrien while her mind danced with memories to the hug. She was beginning to realize how touch/affection-starved she was. Any touch from her father ended in pain, she couldn't remember her mother really showing her any affection...
When Adrien held her hand, or hugged her... something in her chest swelled and made her feel warm and tingly. She had to admit... she enjoyed it and wanted it to continue.
"Miss Maunt."
Ella startled at the use of her last name, turning her head to see Nathalie standing there with an tablet...
"Mr. Agreste...!"
"It is nice to finally meet you again. I have heard about you from my son."
"It's a pleasure to meet you too, sir!" Ella stood, bowing frantically.
"Now, now. There is no need for such dramatics. Your father and I have been business associates for years. I remember one event six years ago, when he brought you and your mother along and we met there. I have been curious as to what your father has been working on these last few years, after the passing of your mother."
Ella stood stock still. She had no idea what to do!
"Anyhow, I was hoping to be able to meet you face-to-face in the near future. Please let me know when would be acceptable for you."
"Of-of course, sir!"
"Good. Then I hope to be seeing you soon."
"Yes sir!"
The call ended and Nathalie walked away. Ella stood for a few seconds before sinking onto the bench. Holy crap did that just happen!?
"Elly-bean?" Kiismet whispered from her skirt pocket home, floating up to land on Ella's shoulder.
"Holy crap what just happened Kiisy?!" The kwami pressed herself to her holder's neck, the pressure helping Ella focus, rather than letting her anxiety and panic spiral.
"I think you just finished the 'meet the parents' phase of a relationship!"
"Kiisy!" Ella whisper-yelled, blushing furiously.