Everything fell apart the moment they revealed the person behind the mask of Shadow Moth. For years, it was what he wanted. For years, he dreamed of the day they defeated the villain terrorizing Paris. The day they stood victorious. The day they could finally reveal themselves. He didn't expect it would turn out this way. No, not like this.

His father's desperate cries rung hollow against his ears as he stared at the body of his mother. She laid inside the capsule untouched by time. Peaceful. It was the exact opposite of what he was feeling. Rena Furtive and Carapace held Gabriel and Nathalie down, their shock visible behind their masks. The others was outside doing damage control while keeping the media from entering their mansion. He was glad. The fewer people seeing him break, the better.

Yet, despite all the turmoil in his chest and the avalanche of emotions, he couldn't bring himself to cry. No tears fell from his face. No furious outbursts. No anguished screams. Everything unfolded like a one dramatic, messed up movie where he starred in and he watched it feeling everything and nothing at the same time.

There was a muffled sob beside him. Ladybug clutched the butterfly and peacock miraculous in her other hand while the other covered her mouth.

"I ruined his life." Her voice cracked. "I… I- Adrien, I'm so, so sorry."

She fell on her knees. Teardrops rolled down her cheeks to the cracked basement floor as sobs wracked her body.

She was apologizing to him without even knowing it. Crying on his behalf with guilt and sympathy. He wanted speak. To tell her, his father's decisions wasn't her fault. And if there was someone who should apologize, it was him. They were living in the same house but he failed to notice anything suspicious. Even if he did, he just brushed it off.

'I'm sorry.' The words were on the tip of his tongue. Still, no voice escaped his mouth. Pathetic. He collapsed next to her then wrapped his arms around her trembling body. Her warmth seeped into his suit. A reminder that he wasn't alone. That despite everything that happened, someone cared about him enough to remember him. To apologize for something they had no control of.

It all felt too real. No- it was real. It was really happening. He just betrayed his own father. Lead him to his doom. Stopped him from resurrecting his mother. He betrayed his family and now… Now, he had no one left. He was all alone. The realization left him shaking. Like a broken dam, all emotions came crashing down on him, drowning him in every miserable possibilities. He let out a strangled cry and clutched her like a lifeline as they held each other amidst the tears and sobs and incoherent apologies. The pain of her fingers digging on his skin, being the only thing that grounded him.

Little did he know it was the last time he could ever be a hero. The last time he'd ever hold her and hear her voice. The last time Plagg could ever console him.

As if betraying his family wasn't enough, their Miraculouses turned dormant and they didn't even had the chance to reveal their identities to each other because the fight left them despondent and suffering.

If not for his friends, he would've turned insane a long time ago. Especially Marinette, who stayed with him most despite his efforts to push them all away. Asking for forgiveness with guilty, pleading eyes and sincerity that burned into him, turning his walls to ashes. It's like she blamed herself for every single tragedy in his life but she couldn't be farther than the truth. She became his light. No. She always had been, he realized. That's why, it pained him even more when he couldn't tell her the truth. And he wouldn't be able to unless he found the miracle that would lead him back to her again. To the one who might have the answers: Ladybug, Guardian of the Miraculous.

And maybe, just maybe, he ached to see her again because he loved her still after all these years. Maybe, he wanted to see her may it be for the last time to have the closure they both deserve. Maybe, he was hoping they would still be friends after the reveal. But then again, maybe it was just wishful thinking.

Eight years. He searched for her. For eight years, he gathered every clue, every mundane things she said about herself to figure out her identity. All of it but still, nothing. In the end, he landed in a rent-a-hero agency hoping against all hope that at some point, someone in a Ladybug suit could at least give him some reassurance he desperately craved. Not that he gave up searching for her. He could never. It's just, he wanted to fill the gaping void in his chest despite its proven futility. There's still an ache, a severe longing none but his lady could fill.

"Dude, are you listening?" Nino's voice cut through his thoughts.

He blinked, remembering what their conversation was about. Right. Birthday party in their house at three in the afternoon followed by a small reunion with their friends afterwards, around dinner.

They wanted him to come. Insisted he'd go. It's been months since they last saw each other face to face so he understood their sudden request.

His chest tightened with guilt. Usually, they didn't need to remind him about an important event such as this. Celestine's birthday had been engraved in his head and marked down on his calendar. However, the busy week took a toll on him. It didn't helped the anniversary of their fight was the day after. The anniversary of Shadow Moth's defeat and the anniversary of his separation to Ladybug. Loosening his collar, he released a breath.

"Yeah. Sorry. I've zoned out for a bit but I'll be there at-" he glanced at the clock on his phone. 10:57 am. "-two thirty or three. The shoot will be done by then. Hopefully."

"Modeling problems?" There was a distant chattering in the other end of the line. "Should I convince them to let you go?"

He shook his head, a ghost of smile on his lips. Their concern was greatly appreciated. But ever since they'd unmasked the villain terrorizing Paris, they took it upon themselves to take care of him despite his assurances that they didn't had to and that they shouldn't feel guilty for helping Ladybug. "No, thank you. You might persuade them into letting me rest for a month. I can handle it. I'll be there."

"I'll save you a seat beside Marinette." Alya chimed in before their call ended.

Breathing out through his mouth, he stood from his position at the foot of his bed then got ready for the photoshoot.

He opened the extra room-turned-storage to retrieve the hat Marinette made years ago. The scent of stinky cheese made him wrinkle his nose.

He hated the smell but kept on buying it anyway because his kwami loved it and he could only imagine his reaction once he came back. And he will. Until then he'd hoard tons of Camembert for Plagg. Although he knew he'd eat just about anything, Adrien liked to spoil him anyway. He missed their silly talks. Missed the way he tried to hide his concern behind sarcasm. Their shenanigans. Plagg would tease him about his silly crush with a mouthful of cheese and as a revenge, he'd sometimes transform without letting him bite into the Camembert. But most of all, he missed him.

"Look, Plagg. There's a lot of stinky cheese here for you." He traced the ring while whispering in the air, hoping the wind would carry his words in the dimension where his kwami currently reside. "I made sure to buy the stinkiest, most expensive cheese for you. So, please. Wake up."

His voice cracked and he would've cried for the umpteenth time that day if not for his phone's alarm going off.

Time to loose himself on work.

The photoshoot team arranged the props around him while he sat on top of the steps. He waited for the right moment to ask them if they could finish early but between the makeup brushes on his face, the flashes of the camera, some ridiculous change of clothes featuring him wearing a button down shirt unfastened halfway, a few smiles, embarrassed poses and serious looks, he didn't had the chance. His phone's screen flashed. 2:43 pm. There were ten missed calls from his friends and another thirty messages. Nino would choke him, Alya would bring him back to life just to kill him again. Either way, he's dead if he didn't show up in ten minutes. Luckily, their location was near to the Lahiffe-Cesaire residence.

He thanked all the team then bid goodbye, leaving in haste. Some waved, others reminded him to be careful. A smile stretched across his face as he waved back. They were like his caring, extended family.

A message from Gorilla informed him he got stuck in the middle of traffic. He told him not to worry, he was planning on walking anyway.

His eyes trailed upward, into the sky. Its shade of blue reminded him with his lady's eyes. Goodness. He missed those eyes. He missed the way it sparkled with mischief when she thought of another outlandish plan. The way it reflect smugness when her intuition was right. But most importantly, he missed the way it stayed on him whenever they talk and flirt and bicker.

'Get yourself together!' The voice in his head chided. Every time he was alone, his thoughts strayed to everything he lost. A bad habit he couldn't seem to change.

The warm air blew against his skin. Sunlight glinted on the horizon. It was one of those rare moments where he could cherish the little things like a kind stranger's smile or the stray ladybug flitting between his fingers before flying away. No reporters followed him. They gave up asking opinions about his father's sudden retirement years ago. Fans stopped him every now and then for a picture or autograph. Not that he minded. If his image or signature could make them happy, he'd be delighted to give it. Compared to other times he walked, that day was more peaceful. Meaning, he could come to the party on time. He could see the building already.

Nino and Alya's house was flooded with people. Most of them belong to the press, fashion industry and famous artists. They crowded the threshold so he slipped through the back door. Luckily, there was no one there to see him act like an alley cat.

A rushing figure collided against him as he rounded the corner. All breath got knocked out of his lungs. Wincing, he reached out to steady the person but the impact sent them both sprawling on the floor in a daze. When the shock passed, he looked down in concern only to be surprised. Marinette gripped the slightly dented paper hats like her life depended on it. She had her eyes shut tight while his arms secured around her waist and her head cushioned on hischest. Bare chest. Embarrassment warmed his cheeks. Leaving without changing first turned out to be an awful idea.

Clearing his throat, he asked. "Marinette, are you okay?"

His voice shocked her more than the crash did. Her eyes snapped opened and she gawked at him. Blood rushed from her neck to her face. For a second, he was afraid he'd somehow broke her.

"Adrien! I-I'm fine! Your chest is great- I mean, your arms- I mean, I'm great!" She laughed awkwardly, crawling out of his reach like he was on fire. "No worries needed! I am fine!"

"Are you sure?" He asked, noticing the faint dark circles under her eyes and exhaustion on her posture.

"Yeah! Totally." She stifled a yawn, peering back at him. "What are you doing here?"

"I was sneaking past the people outside." He offered her a hand. "What are you doing here?"

"Wait, you came here in t-that?" Marinette squeaked, gaping at his outfit. "You know, what? Don't answer. Why the heck did I just ask that?" Her voice rose an octave higher while her face turned a darker shade of red. She hid her face behind the party hats. "I am, uh, helping with the birthday designs and catering and distributing of f-frops."

"You mean, props?" His lips curled upward in amusement. She's too cute for her own good.

"Exactly!"

"Is that why you're running around carrying the hats?" He chuckled. Typical Marinette. "We're lucky it didn't scattered when we bumped into each other."

"Y-yeah. Goodness, that'd be awful." She reached her ear then released a sigh of relief. The black earrings she always wore shone in the otherwise dark room.

"Anyway, what kept you busy? I haven't seen you in months!" It worried him sick.

"Months?" Checking her phone, she let out a heavy breath. "I guess, it's been that long. I was, uh… I- um, you're the first person I'm telling this. So don't- don't tell anyone, okay? I don't want them to worry." She bit her lip, avoiding his gaze. "I was searching for something. Or someone. For a long time now."

His eyes widened. Her words hit too close to home, he almost suspected her of mocking him but the thought was too ridiculous. Marinette would never do that to anyone, especially to her friends. She'd seen him breakdown about a hundred times and not once had she made fun him. It must be pure coincidence. Yeah, it must be it.

A sudden jolt of ease spread through his chest. The weight he didn't know he carried lightened from the revelation. He wasn't the only one experiencing the intense need to find someone they lost. Somehow, it was comforting to know.

"I understand. Don't worry, your secret is safe with me." Then after a minute of consideration, he added. "And I know the feeling… searching for someone, I mean."

"Adrien…" Hesitation and regret reflected on her eyes though he didn't understand why. A minute passed. Two. Three. Every passing moment tightened the knots in his stomach tightened. "Are you looking for your father?"

Oh. That's why. She thought he was looking for Gabriel.

While the topic about his family still stung, it didn't hurt that much when he was talking to her. Her support helped him overcome his trauma bit by bit. That's why he could answer her without any hint of bitterness.

Shaking his head, he held her gaze.

"I already know what happened to him and although I know he deserved far worse punishment for terrorizing Paris for his selfish ambitions." Like resurrecting his mother and rewriting the universe. "I'm grateful Ladybug was resolute to him pay for it privately. I guess, I still care about him." It was true. "But I meant, someone else. Someone… who meant a lot to me."

He wanted her to know he understood her and be relieved. Though it seemed wrong to be comforted by other's misery, at that moment with her standing right in front of him, heartbroken and unsure, somehow it felt right. Just two unfortunate souls experiencing the same problem. Reveling in the knowledge that they're not alone.

"He meant a lot to me too." There was a hitched on her voice but she cleared her throat and flashed him a small smile. "Thank you. I know, it's not easy admitting any of that."

"No, thank you for telling me."

There was a small, irrational part of him that wanted to prolong the conversation. To ask her how she was and make her laugh. Maybe, offer her a ride or ask if they can find their missing pieces some time. It's just… of all his friends, he missed her the most. Her mere presence. Her voice. The warmth she emitted whenever she was around. He didn't know whether she had that kind of effect on all people or just him but there's something about her that made him feel at ease and, daresay, loved. It made the butterflies, the good kind, flutter in his stomach. She was a constant in his ever-changing world and it jarred him when she'd gone silent. Fear clawed at his mind everyday, reminding him of what he lost. He already lost a lot, he couldn't afford to loose her too.

If he didn't know any better, he'd say he was in love with her. But he did, and he knew his heart already belonged to someone else. Someone he hadn't seen for ages. Besides, he was sure she also loved the boy she's searching for.

Someone opened the door, making them both jump in surprise. The woman eyed them suspiciously like they're caught guilty of something.

"I need to go or else, Alya will kill me." She moved past him, light glinting against her ears for the second time that day.

"Yeah, I don't want to hold you back." He replied, staring at her earrings with furrowed brows. Now that he thought about it, the earrings almost looked like the ones Ladybug had.

Marinette paused on the door.

"And Adrien?" He could hear the slight tremor on her voice. "I'm really sorry."

She walked away and he was left staring at her retreating back. Their conversation ended the same way it did in the last eight years: with her apology. He never figured out the reason, only that she found him after the final battle detransformed and crying his eyes out. She held him the same way he did to Ladybug and apologized for everything, no matter how much he told her that his father's decision wasn't anyone's fault.

'That would explain it. She's Ladybug and she's looking for her partner.' A traitorous thought entered his mind and it took almost all of his will to banish it. He thought about it before. Desperately wished for it to be true. However he'd seen Ladybug and Marinette together during one of their fights.

He buttoned his shirt to avoid any more awkward situation and walked out of the room, accidentally knocking someone aside. Adrien caught them before they crashed to the floor. What was wrong with him today? "I'm so sorry! Are you okay?"

The person could barely stand on their feet. His gaze traveled on the item they dropped on the floor. A wig resembling Ladybug's hair. They- the girl groaned then mumbled an apology. Judging from her costume, she must be the hero Nino and Alya rented from the hero agency. Her face was flushed, brown hair clung to her damp forehead. "I'll be fine. I have to. I need to perform today."

He placed a hand over her brow then winced. She had an awful fever. "No, you're sick."

Her gaze focused on him and she squinted. "Am I hallucinating or did the Adrien Agreste just caught me and touched my forehead?"

Adrien rubbed the nape of his neck, smiling awkwardly. "I believe, it's the latter."

"Oh my goodness. I'm sorry!" She let out a horrified gasp before coughing.

"It's fine. Really." Patting her back, he noted the paleness of her face and the sweat beading on her brows. "More importantly, you need to rest."

She shook her head, grimacing. "No, I can do it. They rented a Ladybug last month and we already have our schedules full. Everyone but me had personal matters to attend to. I… I can't back out now."

"But you have to. Otherwise your sickness will just get worse. I know how important health is in your job." His hand rested on her shoulder and he flashed her a reassuring smile. "Trust me. They'll understand. What's more important is that you have to take care of yourself."

A flicker of doubt passed on her face. "What about Ladybug? The party will start in a few minutes. They couldn't possibly find any replacement in such a short notice."

"Don't worry. We'll find a way."

The girl stared at him then nodded. A slow, reluctant movement. "I guess, you're right. I still need to drink medicine anyway."

"Get well soon, Ladybug."

"Thank you, Monsieur Adrien." She smiled and he remembered her as one of the heroes he rented to talk while nursing a heartbreak.

He called Nino the moment her concerned friend took her away.

"Dude, where are you?"

"I'm already here. At your house."

"What? Really?" There was chattering on the other side of the line. "Marinette said, you bumped into each other earlier. You should've followed her over here."

"I was about to but then I met your Ladybug." He ran a hand through his hair, walking to where he hoped was the right room for the party. "She's sick, Nino. Has high fever and cough, so I convinced her to go home and rest."

The news was met with silence. There were muffled conversation in the background and he guessed they were discussing the unexpected problem. Their voices became worried but he couldn't make out any of their sentences except for some words and phrases like 'Ladybug'and '-disappoint the kids'.

"I guess, it couldn't be helped. Thanks for letting us know, dude." His best friend said. "We don't wanna disappoint the kids by telling them the hero couldn't come. We'll see what we can do. Anyway, you need to come up here. It's weird calling you in the same room. I can see you from here in all your model glory."

He ended the call then walked over to them just as the two women moved away. They stopped in an empty corner, talking in hushed voices. Marinette furrowed her brows and she shook her head vigorously at something Alya had said. It went on for minutes until the former threw her hands in the air in resignation while the latter squealed and hugged her. He didn't know whether they agreed on something or not because Marinette stormed off on the other side of the room. Though no sign of anger could be seen in her body language, only nervousness and determination.

"Don't worry, Sunshine Boy. She'll be back soon." Alya slid in the chair beside Nino with mischief. "For the meantime, can you entertain the audience for a while?"

Adrien gaped at her. "What? How am I supposed to do that? I can't possibly strike a pose for them?"

"Alya, please. He's an awkward model, not a host." Nino turned to his wife slowly so he wouldn't wake the sleeping baby in his arms.

She doubled over laughing. "Relax. I was just messing with you. Should've seen your face though."

His best friend gave him an apologetic smile when she walked to the stage and prattled about the party. "Sorry 'bout that. She always love to tease us."

"I know, I just wished you'd drop that silly nickname though." His eye twitched.

"Not in a million years, dude."

"I hate you."

"We love you too, bro." Nino chuckled.

Alya came back to their table with a wide grin on her face after announcing the awaited hero will be with them shortly, sending the kids abuzz with excitement. She kissed sleeping Celestine's forehead and Nino's cheek. "So, how did I do?"

"Great." Adrien replied with a bright smile. Her speech made him lost track of time. It was like she was made for public speaking. "So, how did you find a replacement?"

"It's a secret." She winked.

The children's excited squeals brought his attention back to the stage just in time for the familiar figure to land on the platform in a perfect stance. It's like the world stopped moving. Ladybug smiled, brushed her hair over her shoulders then wielded the yo-yo with unbelievable expertise. All breath got caught up in his lungs, his heart pounded against his chest. That posture. The almost smug smile.

Could it be? He swallowed the lump on his throat. Maybe he was just seeing things. Maybe, he's too just desperate. Maybe he's just projecting his partner in her. Still, he couldn't bring himself to crush the budding hope despite knowing that it would only make the pain of disappointment worse. It had to be her. Slowly, ever so slowly, he released a shaky breath and unclenched his grip on the side of the table. She had to be the real Ladybug.

He watched her move with surprising ease. Smiling and waving at the people. Fighting invisible Akuma with her usual moves. Most guests clapped and cheered her on.

They couldn't see the slight trembling of her hands. The subtle biting of her lower lip and doubt behind her amazing bluebell eyes. Those eyes he dreamed a thousand nights to see again. They couldn't see her like he could.

In a briefest moment, their gaze met across the room and he got struck with the utmost yearning to keep it on him for more than five seconds, though he tamped it down. He didn't know whether she recognized him as Chat Noir or not, so he flashed her the most supportive smile he could ever muster instead. She returned the gesture then stood a little straighter.

The quick performance ended with a flourish of her bow. His eyes never strayed from her even after she exited through a room. He stood to follow her but someone gripped his arm.

"Are you okay, Adrien? You look like you've seen a ghost." Alya looked at him, brows knitted in concern.

Great kwamis. The appearance of Ladybug almost made him forget where he was.

"I'm fine. I just need some fresh air, I guess." He needed to know whether she was indeed the real one. In order to do that, he had to hurry and catch her before she changed back. Before she could disappear for the second time. He couldn't bear to lose her again. Not again. Never again.

"Don't take too long, okay?"

Nodding, he turned away from them. He thought about the ways to ask her without sounding rude or creepy. The questions he wanted to ask were quite personal and would probably overstep a boundary, and unless someone she knew ask it, he'd doubt she would answer. A sudden realization froze him mid-step. Of course! Alya must know her! She was the one who asked her to perform. It would be easier if she could introduce him to her. They would be spared from any awkward conversations and he'd be able to learn the truth.

He almost ran back to their table. "Hey, Alya?"

She turned to him with a questioning gaze. "You're back so quick."

"Did… did you know her? The girl you asked to be a Ladybug sub?" He rubbed the nape of his neck, heat rose to his cheek.

Doubt flickered on her eyes. She glanced at her husband but he was focused on calming the sobbing Celestine. "I… think so? Why?"

"M-may I know her whole name?" His brain scrambled to find a not-so-weird excuse though it felt like his ability to think left him. What can his civilian self say that wasn't related to his superhero one? School? Colleague? Or friend! Right. It'd be the safest answer to avoid any suspicions. "It's just… my friend in the agency is searching for a girl. He told me her descriptions and I thought… I thought, she might be the one."

The doubt, albeit lesser than before, was still visible behind her glasses. Her fingers drummed on the table, a look of contemplation on her face. Finally, she stopped then typed something on her phone. "I don't think I can tell you."

His shoulders sagged. Maybe if he run, he'd be able to catch her? It'd be his best hope-

"But, I can let you and your friend meet her. She'll still be wearing the suit for the sake of anonymity. However, you should come too. For support." She gave him a small, understanding smile. "You can probably change her mind if you tell her about your friend's situation."

"I will."

Her phone buzzed. "Alright. She's okay with it. When will you meet her?"

"Now, actually. If that's okay."

"Woah. Aren't we in a hurry, Sunshine Boy? Well, not that I blame you. I'll probably do the same in your situation." She laughed then sent a text. "She's in the room at the end of the hallway on the right. It's the guest room we don't use often so you can have some privacy."

"Thank you, Alya." His lips curled up in a grateful smile despite the embarrassment coloring her cheeks. "I really appreciate it."

"Oh, and Adrien?" Alya called after him. All humor disappeared from her face, replaced with concern, protectiveness and even hope. "Be patient with her, okay? She's been waiting for something like this to happen for years."

Adrien stood outside the door, fiddling with the suit he borrowed from the catering department who were so kind to lend it to him along with the black mask since he couldn't afford to accidentally reveal himself to someone who wasn't his lady. Not that he doubted his intuition. Ladybug would want him to be careful regardless of the situation, so he would. For her. Anything for her.

Butterflies rioted on his stomach. His heart beat so hard against his chest, he feared everyone on the house could hear it. Sweat formed into his palms and he wiped it on his pant leg. Closing his eyes, he let out a long, calming breath then knocked.

The seconds before he heard a muffled, "Come in," seemed like forever when it was mere seconds.

He found her sitting on the desk near the window, looking at him with the softest of smile. The last rays of sunset bathed her form in golden light. A memory of patrol breaks in rooftops during sundown flashed in his mind. His breath got caught in his throat. Right then and there, he knew, he found her.

Emotions rose up to his throat, tears formed at the corner of his eyes and his lips trembled. How could he not cry? Ladybug, his Lady, his partner and soul was right in front of him after so many years. After all the heartbreak and loss and sleepless nights, he found her- no. Rather, she found him. Across the room. In a crowd of a hundred. Her eyes met his and found him.

He bit lips and cleared his throat, refusing to let his emotions get the best of him. There were too many words he left unsaid to her. Too many emotions he failed to show. Too many mistakes he hadn't apologized for, too many thank you's he'd yet to give and he'd be darned if he wouldn't tell her now.

Ladybug stood then met him halfway, eyebrows knitted in confusion. Still, she extended a hand, smiling. "I thought, Adrien is with you. I guess, he wanted to give us privacy. It's nice to meet you…"

He didn't take her hand. Instead, he wrapped her in a tight but quick embrace, holding her shoulders while looking at her wide eyes.

"Milady…" The word left his mouth like a silent plea. "I'm sorry for not being a good partner to you. I'm sorry that all I'm ever good at was to be a distraction and hold off the enemies for a few minutes. I'm sorry for making lame jokes in the middle of the fight and for admitting my love for you over and over and over like a broken record. And most of all, I'm sorry for not knowing Shadow Moth sooner. I should've known it was Gabriel. I should've known but I was too blind- I- I refused to see it. I was afraid…" His voice cracked.

"Wait…" she started but he wasn't done yet. He needed to tell her. To let her know.

"I want you to know how grateful I am for being your partner. Thank you for being patient with me. For pointing out my faults so I may correct them. Thank you for saving me one to many times and for laughing-" Adrien swallowed back a cry and looked at anywhere but her. "-for laughing at my lame jokes. Thank you for being there always. Thank you for being the lady of my dreams."

"Hold on-"

"For so many years, I've dreamed about the day I'd find you again. I want to hug you, to make you laugh and smile. I want us to be friends outside our superhero personas and hang out to catch up with the lost time regardless of who we are or who our family is." His eyes met hers again. She was staring at him with a strange expression while she placed a hand over his own. "I missed you so much, Milady. There isn't a single day when I didn't think of you. I've searched everywhere for you. And will continue to do so even if takes me a lifetime. I will descend to the deepest of hell and fly up to the highest heaven if it means I could see you again for the last time, Milady."

He'd done it. He told her. The heavy burden on his chest lightened with each word. Telling her everything took most of his strength. His feet swayed underneath him. Now, he understood the saying, 'First love never dies.' It's true, he could love someone again if he wanted. He could move on with another girl. Yes, he could probably love someone as deep, if not deeper, than his current feelings but… they wouldn't be her. She's all he ever wanted to love and he would give everything to her to make her happy.

She stared at him long and analyzing. Minutes passed. Doubt creep in his mind. Despite his instincts screaming at him that it's the real Ladybug, he forgot there was still a chance she could just be a random girl in a suit. A random girl whom he just hugged without any permission then proceeded to bare his heart out like a lunatic. Disappointment engulfed every fiber of his being. His mind spun with all the worst-case scenarios, leaving him dizzy and nauseous.

"Ah! I'm so sorry!" He raised his hands over his head in horror. "I got carried away. I'm really sorry. I'm- I… I need to go. Thank you for listening."

Adrien turned to leave but she gripped his arm.

"Wait!" She glared at him though it didn't had any anger in it. If anything, her eyes were a bit teary. "You can't just leave me after saying all that, you dumb cat! And I just found you too after all these years…"

His heart leaped to his throat. He wrapped his trembling arms around her and held her tight against his chest, burying his face against her hair as he choked out a sob. Her hands wound on his waist while she cried at the crook of his neck. They held each other like a lifeline, fearing they'd loose the other again if they ever let go. She kept telling him he was a stupid tomcat in between sniffles and he couldn't help but laugh through the tears.

'It's really her. After all these years, it's really her.' Relief washed over him. Every nerve in his body tingled with joy.

She looked up at him then cupped his cheeks in wonder. "Is it really you, Chaton?"

"The one and only, Milady." He took her hand and placed a revering kiss on her knuckles.

Alya and luck had all his thanks. If he didn't have them both, he'd probably lost Ladybug for the second time around and he didn't know if he could endure it. Unless he knew her real identity, he would forever live in fear of losing her again. The realization froze him in place.

"What is it?"

"I was thinking… now that we're here and Shadow Moth was defeated for years, is it okay to reveal our identities? I don't want to loose you again." Hesitation and fear was evident on his voice.

Her eyebrows furrowed in contemplation while her grip on him tightened. "I don't want to loose you again too. And you're right. Paris is now safe. It won't be a problem if we see the face behind the mask."

His pulse quickened. Sweat beaded his forehead and his hands trembled. Knots formed on his stomach. It's really happening. After all the eager waiting, they would do it. So why was he so terrified? Why couldn't he stop shaking? It's like he was underwater. There weren't enough air in his lungs no matter how much he sucked in a breath. What would he do if she saw he was the son of their enemy? What if she blamed him for not revealing Shadow Moth's identity? What if she ended up hating him? What if she didn't want anything to do with him? What would he do? What if-

A cool hand pressed against his cheek. His gaze snapped back to her and she gave him a reassuring smile. "It's gonna be okay, mon Chaton. Do you trust me?"

He swallowed back the fear then placed his hand over hers. "With all my soul."

Her fingers brushed underneath the material covering his face and he held the clasp of her mask. The only thing he could hear was the loud pounding of blood over his ears. It was a wonder how he heard her counting.

Three.

Two.

One.

He pulled it away but shut his eyes tight. A horrified gasp resounded and his stomach dropped to his feet.

"You've got to be kidding me." She let out a strangled cry that wrenched his heart out.

His fear was coming true.

He took a deep breath then steeled his nerve. It took a moment for his eyes to adjust but when it did, a familiar face stood in front of him crying. "Mari…nette?"

Marinette had her hands over her mouth, fat teardrops rolled down her cheeks. Her eyes was wide with guilt and apology. "Adrien, oh my goodness."

The door swung open, revealing a concerned Alya. "Ah, sorry!"

She was about to close the room when his lady all but ran after choking out an apology. "Marinette, wait!"

He watched her retreating form as Alya chased after her.

It's okay. They knew each other now. There's no reason to hurry. Both of them still need to process their identities. The words played on his head on a loop.

Still, it didn't hurt any less as he stood there in the empty room listening to her now fading cries while the world cave in on him.

A new wave of hot tears threaten to spill from his eyes. He didn't know how he managed to bottle it all up until he arrived to their lifeless mansion. His hands clenched into a shaking fists as his back slid down his door. All of his worst fears came true. Marinette hated him now. He sobbed into his arm. His cries echoed in the room. All emotions he suppressed came crashing down on him, drowning him in heartbreak.

Marinette, his great friend who was always there for him when he needed her the most, who never got tired of helping other people, was Ladybug. She was his lady. The one he searched for. The one he lost again. Maybe for forever, this time. No amount of searching could bring her trust back to him. He betrayed her by excusing his father's suspicious actions. He betrayed her because he was terrified of his father. He was terrified of disobeying him. And because of that, he lost her again. Maybe he was unlucky after all. He found his lady only to loose her again forever. And the most painful thing of all, he felt like he deserved it.

Two days passed after the reveal and he hadn't seen Marinette since. She avoided him like a plague. Not that he blamed her. He'd avoid him too. His chest felt hollow with nothing but pain. Distractions could only be effective for a few minutes before he began spiraling into the darkest parts of his mind again. So he decided to busy himself with fashion designing works since he would soon inherit the Agreste brand.

It had been hours since he sat to browse through the designs his father's colleagues sent him. All of it was bland. Nothing could catch his attention, making his head spun. Or maybe that's just his poor diet talking. He lowered the tablet to stare at the food in front of him. Croissants and hot chocolate. An intern placed it there earlier but he forgot about it. It looked scrumptious but he couldn't bring himself to eat it. Everything he eat tasted like sawdust in his mouth. A wind blew his scarf, the one his father gave him on his fifteenth birthday, and he held it in place. Its material was soft on his fingers and he gripped it in frustration.

He'd been too deep in thought to notice anything until someone slammed their hand on his table, making his cup rattle. He squinted up to the culprit.

Alya stared him down with enough heat to rival the sun. She sat across him then crossed her arms, an expectant look on her face. "So?"

Dread churned in his stomach. "What?"

"Why did Marinette left after talking to your friend?"

His eyes traveled to the door, hoping to see the said girl despite knowing it was pointless. Some of the employees stood on the hallway, apologetic yet interested. "We're sorry, Mister Agreste. We tried to stop her but she wouldn't listen."

Their prying gaze moved between the both of them. If they continued to talk with them around, it would, no doubt, be in the news the next day.

"It's alright. Also, I know, how hard you worked these past few weeks so you deserve to take a break today. You may go home and rest. Please, inform the others." He watched them hesitate to leave.

Some hang around longer than the others but eventually, all of them left. They waited until the building turned silent. Alya checked the hallways then closed the door.

"What happened during my baby's birthday party? All I know was that you and your friend left to meet her and when I came to check up on you, there's only two of you and she ran away crying." Her searing gaze pinned him in place. "Care to explain, Sunshine boy?"

"What did Marinette say?" He left his seat to return the tablet, refusing to meet her eyes.

"That's the problem. She wouldn't tell me anything." Disbelief colored her tone. "It's how I knew it was serious. That, and seeing you two in the most awful state."

"I don't look that bad."

"Right. Have you even seen a mirror lately?" Shaking her head, she jabbed his shoulder. "Honestly, what happened between you two, Adrien?"

He bit the inside of his cheek. Should he tell her? What if she didn't know? What should he do? She wouldn't leave him if he refused to tell her anything. Lying would be out of the question either.

A heavy sigh left his lips. "I discovered her identity."

Suffocating silence engulfed them both for minutes. It continued to stretch on. Its weight hang over his shoulders, wrapping around his chest and constricting his lungs like a vicious snake.

She took a minute to recover from her initial surprise. Her eyes narrowed while she contemplated what to say. "You discovered she is Ladybug."

So, she did knew. Hearing the confirmation was somewhat reassuring. "Yes."

Her expression turned thunderous. "I know, you're incapable of being intentionally mean, Agreste, but I swear if-"

"I thanked her."

"Excuse me?"

"I thanked her." He repeated, facing the now slack-jawed woman. It was true, although it happened before the reveal, his feelings didn't change. Albeit, his gratitude and love multiplied by a hundred, or thousand, probably a million folds.

"You… thanked her? For sending your father to jail?" Confusion was written all over her face. "We hated Gabriel even before we knew he was Shadow Moth but woah, I never thought we'd be on the same page."

A beat passed until her words registered.

"Uh… no?" Surprise was evident on his voice. "It's because she saved me..?"

"Oh… well, it's not really a secret how much we hate your father." She adjusted her glasses. "Anyway, it doesn't make any sense. Why did she left crying?"

"I don't know. Maybe she hated me." His shoulders sagged at the thought.

"Oh, please, you wouldn't be standing here if that's the case. Besides, she loves you too much to hate you."

He didn't let her second sentence affect him. She wouldn't know. She wouldn't understand Marinette's feelings of betrayal unless he told her. And if he did, she'd realize he'd nearly cataclysm her out of fear for his lady's safety. Well, it would be better to tell her himself than to let her hear it from someone else. "You're Scarabella, aren't you?"

Her eyebrows rose in surprise. "I didn't think anyone remembers Scarabella because I never posted about her on Ladyblog but yeah, you're right."

"I knew it."

"It doesn't matter though. What's important is you and Marinette." She paced around the room in worry. "She refused to leave her apartment and join me for breakfast or lunch or dinner. She wouldn't even let me enter the place! I have no idea if she's eating or sleeping right!"

A lump formed at his throat. Knots tightened in his stomach. His lungs refused to fill in with air. He wanted to throw up.

Everything was a mess. It was his fault, his fault, his fault. He did that to her. He betrayed her. He was the reason for her pain. She didn't deserve to suffer. He shouldn't have told her. Shouldn't had ask for a reveal. It's his fault. His fault, his fault, his fault, his-

"Adrien?" A hand landed on his shoulders.

Adrien flinched then walked out of her reach. He didn't deserve any comfort for all he did.

"Adrien, what's wrong?" Alya stepped closer but he moved back. Concern was clear on her eyes. "Are you okay?"

He trembled as he held his arms closer to his chest. "I…"

"You?" She asked gently. "You can tell me anything, Adrien. I won't judge."

"I- I'm Chat Noir." His voice cracked. "I swear, I never meant for any of these to happen. I just want to find my lady. To thank her, to tell her how much I love her. If I knew… if I knew it would turn out like this, I never would've asked her to reveal our identities."

She cursed and before he knew it, he was enveloped in a warm hug. "This got to be the most messed up situation I've ever seen."

"And I never had the chance to apologize for trying to cataclysm you. I'm sorry."

"Don't worry about it. I knew you're just upset and worried about Marinette then." Alya broke the contact and stared at him. "You need to talk to her."

"I know. But she couldn't even stand to look at me."

"I have an idea."

Adrien stood outside Marinette's apartment. His nerves were all over the place. Beside him, Alya kept knocking while calling out her name. Her brilliant idea involved pestering Marinette to let her in and while she was looking away, they would trade places. She would stand watch outside to give them privacy and make sure no one would eavesdrop on their conversation.

"Marinette Dupain-Cheng, if you don't open this freaking door on the count of three, I swear to all superheroes, I will call someone to break this down."

There was a soft click and it unlocked. Alya gestured for him to go inside. He swallowed then nodded. The moment he slipped inside, the door closed behind him. Luckily, Marinette wasn't looking at all.

Shuffling through the floor, her blanket covered form collapsed on the couch. She disappeared under layers of fabric without even glancing back. If he wasn't such a wreck, he'd appreciate more how cute her actions was.

"What do you want, Alya?" Her muffled voice broke the silence after a few minutes. "I told you, I'm not hungry."

He rubbed the nape of his neck then fiddled with his ring. "I, uh, wanted to talk?"

There was a small squeak as she struggled sit up. The blanket wrapped around her legs and she fell off the furniture in an attempt to untangle it. He tried, and miserably failed, to catch her before she landed on the floor.

"I'm okay." She announced, scrambling to stand, hitting his chin with her head in the process.

The dull pain throbbed but he ignored it. His gaze fixed on the girl in front of him. She was in her pyjamas with her hair down and unkempt. Dark circles formed underneath her eyes and embarrassment colored her tearstained cheeks. Still, she was the most beautiful girl he'd ever seen.

Marinette bit her lip, staring at the floor. "I'm sorry for running away. I didn't even think of your feelings. I was too overwhelmed and didn't know what to do."

"It's alright. I understand." He ran a hand through his hair, refusing the urge to reach out to her. "I know, you probably hate me now because I've never mentioned anything suspicious about Gabriel despite living with him for years. Still, I want to apologize. We could've defeated him earlier if only I watched him more closely. I'm really sorry, Mi- Marinette."

"Wait, what did you say?" She looked up confusion.

"I'm really sorry."

"No, no. The first one, before your apology."

"That you hate me?"

"Adrien," A violent storm began to brew behind her eyes as her hands curled into fists. "Who told you that?"

"I assumed it was the case because you ran away after seeing my face and you kept on avoiding me, even going as far as not leaving your apartment." He held his own arm. "I thought, you hated me."

"Great skies, I thought, you hated me." She pulled through her hair, pacing around the room then stopping to face him. "No. I need you to hate me. Loathe me with every piece of your being. Adrien, please."

"I could never." His eyebrows furrowed. "Why would I do such thing?"

"Because I'm a horrible human being! I ruined your life!" She snapped, voice thick with suppressed emotions. "You're the kindest person I ever knew yet you have to suffer through everything because of me. I made you fight against your father. I took away your chance to be with your mother. I forced you to fight against your family then took everything away from you."

"Marinette, stop blaming yourself." She was suffering because of him. His heart dropped to the pit of his stomach. How much more damage should he inflict on her before it could finally stop?

"I can't because it's all my fault! I'm the worst. It's my responsibility as the leader to know all of the strength and weaknesses of my companions and be ready for everything but I've failed in that and I dragged you all into this mess. I'm the reason everyone felt guilty. I ruined everything-"

"Milady, stop!" He took her wrist and stared at her. Anger burned on his veins. But not at her. He was angry at himself for letting her take all the blame. For even letting her think that it was all her fault. Releasing a long breath, he wiped away her tears. "Listen, I fought because I wanted to. I fought because I know Father was wrong. I fought because Mom deserves to rest in peace. I fought because I want to be by your side no matter what happens. None of it was your fault."

"But-"

"None of it." His voice was firm but his gaze softened. "And you're wrong. You did not take anything away from me, Milady. You gave me everything by opening my eyes. You made me realize I have loyal friends, family and a shot at freedom. You've freed me from my father's clutch. You taught me more in eight years compared to my him who was with me for fifteen."

"I don't deserve this forgiveness." She said, her voice wavering. "You lost everything because of me."

"There's no need for any forgiveness. You were never in the wrong. And if there's something I've ever lost, it's you, Milady."

"I made you suffer, Adrien. Why can't you see that?"

"You didn't do anything to harm me. It was my father's actions that made me suffer, not you." The moment he said it, he knew it was true. No loving father would do what he did. Gabriel was willing to sacrifice everything to correct his mistake that lead to his mother's death including terrorizing people. His decisions were nobody's fault. Not his, especially not Marinette's. He'd struggled to accept the realization for the last few years but finally, he came into terms with it. "I'm just glad to be with you, Milady. It doesn't matter what happened."

"Don't brush it off like that! It does matter. You matter to the everyone in Paris, to our friends, to me."

"Because I'm your partner. I know, I'm sorry."

"Because I love you-" She caught herself then flushed.

His eyes widened and his pulse raced. Did he heard her right? She almost said she loved him. But what if she meant it as a friend? Should he say it back?

"Thank you, Milady. I know you meant it as a friend." Adrien smiled at her, heat rose to his cheeks. "And I know this isn't a really good time but I want to tell you for the longest time now, I never stopped loving you, Milady. After all these years, I still love you. I can't bear the thought of moving on. I love the freckles across your nose, your expressive bluebell eyes, your smart mouth and creative mind. I love your smugness and clumsiness. I love how you listen to me when I try to correct you. I love everything about you, Milady."

"Aren't you confused about your feelings?"

"There's no reason to doubt whether Ladybug or Marinette is the real you because I know, both are parts of you and I love you." He kissed her hand. "I'd loved you since our final fight with Stoneheart, Milady."

She stared at him for a long moment. Their breaths filled the silence. His knees trembled and he didn't know how long he could keep it from showing.

"I love you too, Mon Chaton. I'd loved you since the day you gave me your umbrella after I accused you of putting gum in my seat." Her lips curled up in a small smile and she looked deep into his eyes. "I've questioned everything I knew about you these last two days. I always seen you as two different people and because of it, I had a hard time accepting the truth. Knowing you fought beside me against your own father doesn't help either. But now… now, I realized the truth. I love every part of you too, Adrien."

"Wait- I'm Buttercup?" Warmth radiated throughout his whole body. His heart pounded against his chest. He wanted to jump, to scream and run for miles and miles. Hearing her words was surreal. 'Am I dreaming?'

"Yes, Buttercup." Marinette nodded, biting her lip to keep herself from grinning.

He wrapped her in a tight embrace. His face hurt from smiling so much but he couldn't stop it. Every fibre of his being was high with euphoria. "I love you, Milady."

"I love you too, Mon Chaton."

He broke the hug to look at her blushing face. She looked so cute and elated. Knowing the cause was his love for her, made him want to melt in a poodle of lovestruck goo. To think that she loved him too. It was a total dream come true. She fell for him the same day he realized he love her. How lucky could he be?

Marinette cupped his cheek with such gentleness, he felt like he'd collapse right there and then. He laced their other hand and he was sure if he was in his superhero alter-ego, he would've purred a long time ago. She bit her lip in contemplation, unknowingly drawing his attention to her mouth. Goodness gracious. Someone save him. He loved her so much his chest felt like it would explode. She'd be the death of him.

On second thought, if he died for being too in love then so be it.

"May I…" Her breath fanned across his face.

Adrien could only nod as he was trying not to spontaneously combust. It wasn't just him. This amazing, beautiful girl wanted to kiss him too! And she asked his permission to do so. Great skies. Could she be more awesome?

Their eyes fluttered shut as the gap closed between them.

Her lips felt so impossibly soft. She smiled against his mouth and he did the same. He couldn't stop it. Her laughter was contagious. They broke apart, looking at each other with goofy grins plastered on their faces before laughing again.

Everything was so surreal to him. There he stood in her apartment, with the most amazing girl in his arms. It was hard to believe.

"You don't know how long I've wanted to do that." Marinette whispered.

"Yeah?" He placed a kiss on her forehead and enveloped her with his arms. His fingers ran through her hair as she wrapped her hands around his waist and let out a contented sigh.

They stayed like that for who-knows-how-long, slow dancing in the sound of their heartbeats and occasional awed laughter. Giddiness filled their every bones. None of them wanted to pull away. He wished they could stay like that forever. If only Plagg could see them, he'd be so proud of him.

A light flashed in front of his eyes. He rose his hand, squinting at the sudden brightness but never letting go of the girl in his arms.

"Finally! After all these years! I was getting bored watching you two skirt around your feelings for so long while trapped in the ring." A familiar voice froze them in place. "You'll probably never shut up about it for months but at least, I can eat all Camembert I want now."

'No, way.' It took a while for his eyes to adjust. When it did, his heart leaped to his throat. There he was, his sarcastic kwami floating a few inches away from his face.

"Plagg, don't be rude!" Tikki flew towards him, arms crossed. She turned to the stunned girl, beaming. "I'm happy for you, Marinette, Adrien."

Soon, the room was overflowing with flying kwamis chattering excitedly about everything at the same time. He sat on the couch, his mind reeling. Marinette did the same. Their fingers interlaced.

"Happy to see me, kid?" Plagg sat on his waiting hand and he couldn't stop the tears of joy from flowing. "By the way, I'm holding on to your promise."

"I know, I'll give it to you as soon as I get home." He chuckled.

The door swung open and the kwamis hid into whatever they found. Alya stood on the doorway, flushed and buzzing with excitement. She locked the door behind her as she hurried to them. Her voice rising in happiness. "Trixx is back!"

Marinette nodded then choked out a sob. "They're back."

All kwamis went out of their hiding place then crowded around them with the kwami of creation and destruction at the center.

"What happened? Did all of you turn dormant after the battle?" Adrien asked.

"Even Su Han didn't know what to do. He said, it was the first time it ever happened." Marinette gripped his hand tighter.

"Well, as you know, we are bonded to our holders. Those without a permanent holder are bonded to the Guardian." Tikki started. "After discovering Shadow Moth was Gabriel Agreste, all holders became overcome with regret and a something like collective renouncement occurred. It too late when we realized what was happening."

"Just so you know, Sugarcube and I knew what will happen and was prepared to be dormant for years." Plagg turned to them. "We never thought it would be collective though otherwise, we would've told you."

The kwamis fell silent for once. He could tell, they planned to inform them but the moment the transformation passed, they were renounced. Leaving no one to inform.

"But now that you accepted what happened, the renunciation weakened and we were able to break free." Sass said. "All of you can be superheroes again."

"Yeah!"

"I'm so excited!"

All kwamis, including Duusu and Nooroo, voiced out their agreement.

Later that night, Parisians saw the superheroes passed by their houses on patrol for the first time in eight years. The Ladyblog became active again, announcing the return of their beloved heroes with new suits and greater power. But the most shocking news of all, Ladybug and Chat Noir confirmed their relationship as a couple.

Author's Note: Thank you so much for reading this fic! It's my first time writing for this fandom and I'm kinda terrified but your comments are so kind and supportive. Again, thank you so much! I hope you all stay safe. Don't forget to drink lots of water!