TRUE COLORS
WARNING: This is a SEQUEL! Read "The Rain & the Sun" first.
Note: Finally posting the first chapter of the sequel! Not totally happy with it, but oh well. The first few chapters probably won't be that exciting. Anyway, thanks to everyone who added me to their favorites and follows from my last story. I'll also reply to reviews from chapter 18 of "The Rain & the Sun".
Rose Tiger: Sorry for making you cry (even if it was kind of my goal). Hope this is soon enough!
UnderFine: Thanks! Haha, I'm glad I came up with an ending that surprises people. I want to be original. Here's the sequel. Thanks so much!
Leafgreenflower: Ch. 4- glad you're enjoying the story at the beginning. Yes, making kwamis awesome is key. Ch. 6- oh that sounds interesting. I'd love to know how their power would work. You could write a story like that, just be careful. If you do end up writing one, I'll read it. Ch. 7- oh wow. Seems like the kind of luck I'd have. Thank goodness for adulthood… where life doesn't get better lol. Ch. 12- good for you! Was wondering if anyone would. Ch. 18- I'm glad you haven't seen the ending before! Here's the sequel, as promised.
ButterflyStarCat: Lol that response. Hope that's a good thing.
8unnix: Oddly, I know the feeling. AWWW! Don't try to make me cry! Haha glad you have confidence in me and my sequel. I can't even say words to the rest because you've made me happy cry. Ugh. Just thanks a million. Lol I didn't even notice until you pointed out. Thanks for answering my question.
Equuslupus: *checks to see if I spelled your name right a hundred times* Thanks so much for reviewing! Glad you liked it and are looking forward to this story.
. : Thanks for reviewing! Glad you loved it. Well, the future can constantly change. So maybe it'll go back to that exactly, or something close, or nothing at all. You'll just have to see.
StarCatcher10: Yep, disaster. Love surprising people with them. I can't really say if they'll go back to remembering or starting over, but this is a Miraculous Ladybug story with Marinette and Adrien love. So of course, they'll be together somehow.
Liv hart: I know your review was from chapter 4 but answering anyway. You're welcome for the chapter. Glad you loved it!
Lylex96: Glad you liked it! Hope you enjoy this chapter and story!
TheQueenSofi: SORRY! Didn't mean to break it. I can fix it! Eventually. Glad you can't wait for the sequel even though you're on the fence about the ending.
xSapphirexRosesxFanx: Lol promise there's a sequel. As for what happens to Marinette in this new story, you'll see (not really in this chapter).
Guest: Mwahaha, had to have an ending like that to make sure people read my sequel. Hope you enjoy it. Thanks so much for reviewing.
THANKS TO EVERYONE! Love all the new reviewers, and also my loyal ones. Mean I have more fanfictions to read… now I'm more behind lol. Promise to get there before I die.
ALSO: I go back and forth between saying Chinese and Mandarin (like the show). Also, I'm using google translate, which we know isn't the best. Next point, I got lost sometimes in my last story knowing what day it was so this story will have dates and days. I'm using 2019 calendar, because that year works better for me.
IMPORTANT: creating a school system from a different country, only using the internet as your guide is hard. This school will also be a French/America style mix. I apologize for the inaccuracy. More information on the school will be later.
On with the story, hope you all enjoy! Disclaimer: I don't on Miraculous Ladybug. SAD!
True Colors
Chapter 1: With Her Gone
"You with the sad eyes
Don't be discouraged, oh I realize
It's hard to take courage
In a world full of people
You can lose sight of it all
The darkness inside you
Can make you feel so small
Show me a smile then
Don't be unhappy
Can't remember when
I last saw you laughing
This world makes you crazy
And you've taken all you can bear
Just call me up
'Cause I will always be there
And I see your true colors
Shining through
I see your true colors
And that's why I love you
So don't be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors are beautiful
I see your true colors
Shining through (true colors)
I see your true colors
And that's why I love you
So don't be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors are beautiful (they're beautiful)
Like a rainbow
Oh oh oh oh oh like a rainbow"
It's weird to think how much one event can impact our lives. At the time you probably don't notice it as much. It seemed natural to learn to walk, to talk, to read, and write. Making that friend just happened, not something someone forced you to do. Graduating from school is normal. Most people do it. Those things are just part of life.
Then there are events that change you in that moment. Like getting an injury that ruins your athletic career, losing a family member to cancer, marrying the love of your life, winning the lottery. Who would we be if these things didn't happen? Would we be different or the same?
Does that extend to people? Do our families, friends, and others in our lives shape us to who we become? If that's true, then what happens when they leave? Do we go back to who we were before, or are we stronger? We stay the same because we have to, there's no going back.
For Adrien, he doesn't know that applies to him. He doesn't know there was a time where his mother became ill. A time where she disappeared, leaving his father and him changed. He doesn't know he fell in love with a girl who he once thought to be just a friend. No, Adrien doesn't remember, because he can't. Because that girl made a wish, sacrificing her very existence to the people she knew, to make him happy.
Not like he knows any different now. It isn't quite the same as before her. He's still Cat Noir, though Ladybug has never made an appearance. He's guardian of the miracle box, though he doesn't remember the guardian before him. He still goes to public school, his mother convinced his father he needed to be out there.
His mother. His father. He doesn't remember how his father used to act without his wife around. He doesn't remember him being Hawk Moth, tearing the city apart. To fully comply with that girl's wish, some things did have to change. Adrien's parents never found the butterfly and peacock miraculouses, because they were never lost. No one has ever been akumatized, fell victim to a broken man.
Is this new life better though? Would Adrien choose this life if he knew how it was before? How can two people with an incredible love story just be forced apart from now on? How could the world be more balanced this way? The only one who remembers both times, before and after (excluding Fluff), knows everything about everything. Changing everyone's lives and memories is the only way to keep the world as it should be. At least, that's what the entity told Marinette. Making the wish wasn't the end of something, it's only the middle.
September 1st, Sunday
Adrien sits at his desk studying the large book in front of him. Though the language is hard to understand, he learns a little bit every day. Being fluent in Mandarin really helps him. Even with that knowledge, it's like the words are written in a code. Each passage is a different, more complex web of code. Deciphering it will take time, but that's fine, there's no rush.
Plagg sits away from his chosen, eating his wonderfully delicious cheese. His gaze subconsciously drifts over to where the miracle box is hidden on the second floor. He thinks of Tikki. Normally if they're separated for this long, he begins to feel weird. Plagg shrugs and stuffs another piece of cheese in his mouth. There's nothing wrong. She's in the box along with the other kwamis. When the time is right, Adrien will pick a Ladybug if need be.
Adrien sighs and erases some words in his notebook.
"Having trouble?" Plagg voices.
"The miraculous book should come with a translation book. Why do I need to work through it like this? Surely the guardians before me could just tell me what it says," Adrien slightly grumbles.
"I don't know. Harder for just anyone to read it this way."
"Yeah well, it almost makes me want to give up."
Adrien closes the book, too tired to read more at the moment. He really should be doing homework, but he's not in the mood after spending hours pouring into that book. There's a knock at his door. He swivels his chair in that direction. Plagg disappears.
"Come in," Adrien allows.
His mother steps into the room with a smile.
"Looks like someone is working hard. Don't you ever take a break?" Emilie sits down on his bed.
"I do. Taking one right now actually."
"Then we should go out and do something. No sense in having you locked up in here on such a nice day."
Adrien smiles.
"That's exactly what I need."
Emilie stands.
"Great, meet me downstairs. Last one there is a rotten egg."
She smiles brightly before leaving the room. Adrien doesn't miss a beat to check his appearance in the bathroom. He grabs Plagg some cheese before the two leave his room. His mother is already at the door talking to their driver. She smiles once she sees Adrien walking down the stairs. Gorilla goes on ahead to get the car.
"Looks like you've beat me again," Adrien acts sadly, wondering how she manages to do it every single time.
"Always do, my little stinky egg-head," Emilie teases, ruffling Adrien's hair.
"Mom," Adrien protests embarrassed.
It's not his fault he always smells like cheese due to Plagg's habits.
"And where are you two going?" his father appears.
Adrien straightens up, fixing his hair. Emilie turns to him with a warm smile.
"We're escaping. Going to have a picnic," Emilie discloses.
"I should think not," Gabriel argues, surprising Adrien. "At least not without me. Nathalie, I'm leaving for the rest of the day."
Nathalie nods from her position before leaving, scribbling something on her clipboard.
"First one to the car gets to pick the music," Gabriel challenges.
Adrien bolts to the car, determined not to lose this race. Emilie giggles at her son. Gabriel grabs her hand and escorts her to their car. Adrien beams inside the car.
"Looks like I get to pick the music," Adrien rejoices.
"Actually, our driver got here first. He gets to pick," Emilie points out.
Gorilla smirks in the mirror before picking classical music.
"That's so unfair," Adrien laughs.
"I don't make up the rules," Emilie says with sarcasm.
"But you do!" Adrien laughs again. "I never win."
"Kids never win against their parents," Gabriel reasons.
Adrien shakes his head.
"You just know how amazing I am and, therefore, have to cheat," Adrien jokes.
"Parents never cheat. You can make the rules up when you're a parent," Emilie smiles, kissing Adrien on the forehead.
Adrien's cheeks slightly redden.
"That won't be for a while. I'm not even dating," Adrien reminds.
"Who knows. She could be just around the corner," Gabriel joins in on the teasing.
"Aww, our son in love. Remind me to have my camera with me at all times from now on," Emilie gushes.
"Mom," Adrien's cheeks redden even further.
His parents laugh. Their car finally arrives at a park. It's pretty secluded and hardly anyone is here today. Emilie and Adrien search for the perfect picnic spot while Gabriel carries the blanket and basket. They decide to sit on a small hill, half covered in shade from some trees. Gabriel passes out sandwiches, leaving the tray of fruits and vegetables in the middle.
"Now son, we should go over your schedule while we're together," Gabriel starts.
"Business at family picnic? Are you breaking the rules?" Adrien smirks.
"No!" Gabriel realizes.
"Too late honey. You've brought this upon yourself," Emilie lightly scolds.
"Fine. I'll deal with the consequences later, but may I contain?" Gabriel requests. "Please?"
"He did say please, what do we think?" Emilie asks Adrien.
"Hmm, two minutes. And we double your punishment," Adrien offers.
"Deal," Gabriel accepts.
He wipes his mouth with a napkin.
"Monday you have fencing after school and piano. Tuesday is your Chinese lessons, plus a sunset photoshoot. Nathalie will go over more specifics that afternoon. Wednesday you have fencing and piano. Thursday is Chinese and piano. And Friday you have fencing and Chinese," Gabriel goes over.
"Any chance my Saturday is free?" Adrien inquires.
"As far as I know. Though we might be having an important lunch," Gabriel ponders.
"With who?" Adrien questions.
"With the Tsurugis," Gabriel answers.
"Oh there's a nice girl. You're friends with Kagami, right?" Emilie interjects.
"Yes, mom. Friends," Adrien emphasizes.
"Dear, don't force relationships on Adrien," Gabriel takes the opportunity to scold his wife.
"I'll tease our son if I want to, dear," Emilie counters.
"You two are too much," Adrien huffs.
They all laugh. The rest of the picnic's conversation steers clear of work-related topics. The three take back their supplies to the car before going on a walk. Gabriel and Emilie link arms while Adrien walks next to his mother. Adrien lights up at seeing a certain bakery up ahead.
"We should stop by for some treats," Adrien suggests.
"Oh I see why we came this way now," Emilie giggles.
Much like herself, her son has such a sweet tooth. Gabriel, not so much.
"You really shouldn't eat sweets," Gabriel dismisses.
"But I haven't had any lately," Adrien argues.
"Plus, growing boys need their sugar," Emilie points out.
"You're getting me back for making you read that one baby book aren't you," Gabriel deadpans.
"Yes dear. And I also want something sweet," Emilie replies.
"You two and your sweet tooth," Gabriel rolls his eyes.
Like in most cases, Gabriel is outvoted so into the bakery they go. Luckily there isn't a line when they enter.
"Welcome Agreste family," Sabine greets with a smile. "Here for your weekly sweets?"
"You know it," Emilie smiles. "How are you two?"
"We're good thank you. What can I get you guys today?" Sabine inquires.
"We'll have four chocolate chip cookies," Emilie answers.
"I see they haven't sold you on our sweets yet," Sabine directs at Gabriel as she scoops the cookies into a bag.
"Nope," Gabriel confirms. "Still no sweet tooth in me, but I'll take a croissant."
Sabine gets a separate bag for his croissant. Tom comes out from the kitchen to greet them with a smile.
"Good afternoon, it must be Sunday," Tom chuckles.
"Like clockwork," Emilie agrees. "We can't simply stay away."
"Here you go," Sabine hands them their bags.
Gabriel hands over the money. Sabine takes it.
"I also put in some passion fruit macaroons, on the house," Sabine informs.
Adrien's smile widens.
"You spoil us," Emilie claims.
"It's nothing for our favorite customers," Sabine shakes it off.
"And tell me Sabine, are you pregnant yet?" Emilie wonders. "You know you two would make great parents."
"You ask us that every time," Sabine laughs.
"We would but we're just so busy with the bakery. We wouldn't have time to properly raise a child," Tom adds.
Adrien grabs a macaroon from the bag, takes a bite, and floats to Heaven.
"Too bad. I would marry them for sweets like this every day," Adrien praises.
The group laughs. Some more customers enter the bakery.
"We should get going. Thanks for the sweets," Gabriel slightly bows his head.
"See you next Sunday," Emilie laughs.
"Have a good week," Tom wishes.
"Xièxiè nĭ de kuăndài!" Adrien calls over as they head over toward the exit. (Thanks for the treats)
"Bié kèqi!" Sabine returns. (You're welcome)
The trio continue their walk for a few blocks before calling their driver. Once home, Adrien goes back to his room to do some homework. Plagg flies out of his pocket.
"You didn't get me any cheese," Plagg complains.
"Don't I give you enough as it is?"
"There's no such thing! I can always eat cheese."
"That I'm not surprised about. I'll get you some next time, promise."
Adrien starts working on his studies.
"What are you doing?" Plagg questions.
"Homework," Adrien replies, half paying attention.
"How can you have homework already if school doesn't start until tomorrow?"
"Homework from my Chinese instructor. It's not due till Tuesday, but might as well get a head start since I'll have school homework tomorrow."
"Your parents make you do a crazy amount of extra lessons."
"I don't mind. At least they give me some free time to hang out with my friends."
"True. Can you imagine never being able to leave this house?"
"It would be awful. Anyways, if I have to continue these lessons to be able to go to public school, then I'll endure them."
"Seems like too much if you ask me."
Plagg floats away to find some cheese. It's amazing he's lasted this long in Adrien's room without eating cheese or napping. Adrien shakes his head before continuing his work. It doesn't take him long to get all his work done, so Adrien decides to play some video games until dinner. Once in a while Plagg will play as well, today being one of those days. A knock at the door interrupts him. Gabriel enters.
"Dinner is ready," Gabriel announces.
"I'll be right down."
"Don't forget to wash your hands."
Gabriel departs, leaving the door slightly open. Adrien washes his hands before heading to the dinning room. His mother is already sitting down when he arrives. He sits across from her.
"It feels incredible. I can't wait to eat," Adrien voices.
"I know, the smell is making my stomach growl," Emilie laughs.
Gabriel sits at the head of the table.
"Sorry for the delay, I had trouble locating our guests," Gabriel apologizes.
Amelie sits down next to her sister while Félix takes a spot next to Adrien.
"Sorry!" Amelie giggles. "I was looking around."
"No need to apologize," Emilie dismisses. "How are you two settling in?"
"Good thank you. And thank you for letting us stay here. After William's death I've just felt so lost. It'll be good for us to be here until we can get back on our feet," Amelie sheds a few tears.
"Of course, we're family," Gabriel inserts.
"Like we said at the funeral, stay as long as you like," Emilie adds.
"Yeah, I'm glad you guys are here. It's been a while since we've seen each other," Adrien smiles.
"Thank you," Amelie smiles back.
"I'm looking forward to spending time with you as well," Félix speaks up.
Just then, the food is served. Everyone digs in, having small conversation as they eat. After dinner, the five of them enjoy playing some music together before retiring to bed. Emilie sits on her son's bed as he lays down. She runs her fingers over his forehead and through his hair. She smiles, feeling so lucky to have Adrien as a son.
"Are you ready for tomorrow? Your first day at lycée?" Emilie asks.
"I'm a little nervous, but I'm mostly excited."
"I'm very proud of you. And you're still happier being at public school?"
"Very happy. I loved being home with you all day, but I've made a lot of great friends. I couldn't ever go back."
"And you never will," Emilie pokes his nose, causing Adrien to laugh.
"Thanks for supporting me."
"Of course dear. Now get some sleep. You don't want to be tired."
"Yes mom."
Emilie leans down and kisses Adrien on his head.
"Good night. Sleep well my little sun drop."
"Good night mom."
Emilie leaves after closing the door. Adrien waits a few minutes before quietly getting out of bed.
"Come on Plagg."
Plagg is lying comfortably, trying to sleep.
"You heard your mother. We need to sleep."
"She was talking about me. She doesn't even know you exist. While Adrien has school tomorrow, Cat Noir has responsibilities tonight."
Plagg groans.
"Suit yourself. Plagg, claws out!"
Plagg's eyes widen before he's sucked into the ring. Cat Noir jumps out his window and takes to the rooftops. He begins his patrol around the city. It's quiet tonight. Not that there's anything really dangerous ever going on in Paris. But sometimes there are some robbers or burglars, a car chase he helps out with, or a purse snatcher. But tonight seems to be everyone's night off. Cat sits on top of a building, letting the breeze flow through his hair and the lights entertain him. He sighs.
Being Cat Noir is great, but sometimes it's rather lonely. His smile falters. He wishes there was someone else beside him. He debated handing out more miraculouses, but Paris didn't really need more than him at the moment. Is it bad to wish for a reason to have a partner or a group of heroes by his side? Maybe. Being guardian is still kind of new to him. He was handed this position without any warning. He remembers the day like it was yesterday.
Adrien arrives home from eating out with his family. Immediately entering his room, a black square box with a paw print on top catches his eye. Beside it lay a mysterious book. Approaching the items, he finds a sticky note on top.
"You're the next guardian. Keep them safe. I'm counting on you Cat Noir," Adrien reads.
That was it. No name at the end. No indication of who dropped off the box or how they got into his room undetected. He opens the box, seeing six miraculouses on top. There was an open spot where his miraculous belongs. Closing the box, Adrien flips the book open. He can't understand most of it. Some is written in Chinese.
"I wonder why I'm the new guardian."
Plagg shrugs.
"Who knows. The guardians are always mysterious. I'm sure there's a good reason they passed it onto you."
"Do you know who the last guardian was?"
"Nope. Which is odd. But I don't recall their name."
Plagg doesn't dwell on that fact too long. Not when cheese catches his sight. He zooms over and starts eating.
"Does that mean I get to give out the miraculouses whenever I want? And to who."
"Only when you need to. You'll know when it's right. Or whatever, I don't really care."
Adrien nods. For now he needs to find a place to hide it. He's not sure how his parents would react seeing the box and its contents. He walks up the stairs to his library and hides the box in one of his draws.
Cat swings his tail back and forth, coming back from his memories. Plagg told him he'd know when it's right to hand out more miraculouses. Does loneliness count as a good time? Probably not. Cat sighs again, this time laying down on his back. He looks up at the stars. A funny feeling courses through him, like he's done this before with someone. His mother most likely. They used to stargaze when he was younger.
With the night quiet, Cat heads home to get some sleep.
September 2nd, Monday
Adrien wakes to his mother gently moving his shoulder and whispering to him.
"If you don't wake up now, you'll be late for your first day of school," Emilie warns softly.
His eyes flutter open to his mother's smiling face.
"Morning," Emilie greets.
"Morning," Adrien returns, sitting up with a yawn.
"Continue yawning like that and you'll fall asleep in class. Enough times and you'll be kicked out," Emilie moves closer to squeeze her son tightly to her chest. "But I guess we'll get to spend all day together."
"Mom," Adrien grumbles embarrassed.
"I know, I know. You love the idea," Emilie jokes.
Adrien laughs.
"I would mom, but you'll be so busy working on your next movie soon. You wouldn't be here anyway."
"True. Better stay in school then. Come on, get up! If you're not late, we might get to eat breakfast together."
Adrien flings the cover off before starting his morning routine. He always enjoys eating meals at the table with his parents, especially breakfast. In the dinning room, his parents are already sitting. Adrien takes his place, a plate with a waffle, eggs, and bacon already there. While his parents' meals are the same, they have coffee whereas he has juice.
"I hope you have a great day today. You'll have to tell me all about it when I get home," Emilie starts.
"Thanks, I will. I'll miss you though," Adrien smiles mischievously.
Emilie catches on.
"I'll miss you too. I love you a waffle lot!" Emilie puns.
"I love you too. We're butter together!" Adrien laughs.
Gabriel looks up from his plate to stare at his wife and son.
"Every breakfast?" Gabriel questions. "Is that really necessary?"
"You've got to be yolking," Adrien continues.
"Yes, how can we not when life is so brew-tiful," Emilie adds.
"At least get new puns," Gabriel requests.
"Oh come on dear! Don't go bacon my heart," Emilie leads.
Gabriel sighs. He knows they won't stop until he gives in. Besides he did break the rules at the picnic yesterday. This is his punishment.
"I couldn't if I fried," Gabriel gives in.
Félix and Amelie walk in to Emilie and Adrien laughing lightly. They take their seats.
"Are my sister and nephew making puns again?" Amelie giggles.
"Constantly," Gabriel confirms.
"You're so weird," Félix notes, taking a bite of eggs.
"Are you ready for your first day of school?" Emilie asks him.
"I suppose. I miss school in London, but I'm sure this school will be fine," Félix answers.
"Make sure Félix knows how to get around. And include him with your friends. Be a good host," Gabriel instructs.
"I will father," Adrien promises. "We won't have all of the same afternoon classes, but we'll be together all morning."
Amelie checks her watch.
"You two better get going then," Amelie prompts.
The two wipe their mouth with a napkin before collecting their belongings and heading out the door. Gorilla is already out front ready to take them. The car ride is silent. Adrien looks out the window. A smile crosses his face as they pass his old school, Collège Françoise Dupont. His new school is only a few blocks farther.
This school is much larger. He remembers how grand it is, seeing it on a tour just a week ago. To get to the entrance, from the front, you need to climb up the split staircase. Inside is also an open-air courtyard with a basketball court. Unlike the collège, this lycée is three stories. On the other end of the courtyard are gym/sport lockers and one of the entrances to the pool. Outside of the pool is a tennis court.
The first floor consists of classrooms, the cafeteria, and a student hangout for seconde (first year). The second floor has offices, classrooms, a room with a small stage and space for fold up chairs, and a student hangout for première (second year). The third floor has classrooms, the library, and a hangout for terminale (third year). There are stairs to get to each level along with two elevators on each side of the school.
Gorilla pulls over at the curb. Adrien and Félix get out of the car and walk up the right side of the split stairs. Their French Literature class is on the first floor. The classroom is on the right side as you enter. The doorway is at the front of the room where the teacher's desk and white board is. It reminds him of Ms. Bustier's classroom with how the desks and benches are assigned going up. However, each bench can fit three students. There are three rows of these seats (two on each level) and the back has a bench long enough for four students, centered on that level.
Adrien and Félix take the bench on the first level, on the other side of the room. Students begin to pour in as the first bell rings. Adrien recognizes most of the students from his class last year and some he knows from others. There's only one boy he isn't familiar with. He lights up when Nino walks in.
"Nino!" Adrien greets.
"Dude! I've missed you," Nino returns, taking a seat next to Nino. "Morning Félix."
"Good morning Nino. How are you?" Félix asks.
"As good as anyone could on the first day of school," Nino answers.
"I like school. I miss going during the summer," Félix informs.
Nino chuckles.
"I'm not surprised. Adrien is just as bad. You two are weird," Nino determines.
"You're laughing this early in the morning, about school? Feeling okay?" Alya teases.
The three boys turn to Alya and Kagami sitting behind them.
"I'm laughing at how much Adrien and Félix love school," Nino repeats.
"What's wrong with that? It's satisfactory learning new things," Kagami says, completely serious as always.
Nino, Adrien, and Alya laugh at that. Félix and Kagami don't quite understand. The bell rings, as the teacher gets everyone's attention.
"Morning class and welcome to Lycée Josué Trudeau. I have a wonderful syllabus planned for this year, but that requires your participation. This classroom is a safe place and you shouldn't feel terrified to speak up. However, I know some of you may have a fear of speaking in front of the class when you might be wrong, so I won't call on anyone who doesn't raise their hand," the teacher begins. "Now, I'm sure you know many of your classmates but let's take some time getting to know each other. I'll go first. My name is Mme Portier. I've been married for ten years and have two children, six and four."
Everyone in the classroom shares a little about themselves. After French Literature is History & Geography. Again these benches are on different levels, but has four rows with space for two each desk except the last row has two benches for three people. Adrien and Félix sit in the front near the door. Nino and Alya sit behind them. Then it's time for English, on the second story. The seats in this room are arranged in desks in sets of four (forming a large table), six groups total. That concludes the morning classes for that day.
To ease Félix to this school, they all agreed to be home for lunch. Only Gabriel and Amelie are home to have lunch with them.
"How was your morning?" Amelie addresses toward her son.
"Fine. The teachers seem adequate, the grounds are prestigious, and Adrien was very accommodating," Félix concludes.
"And are his friends inclusive?" Gabriel wonders.
"Yes, all of them have been very welcoming," Félix concurs.
"Do you have the same classes in the afternoon?" Amelie questions.
"Not our stream classes, but we'll be on the same level. We have the same last class, whether it's gym or study hall that day," Adrien replies.
Amelie nods.
"I'll be fine on my own," Félix assures.
"Oh I know sweetie! I just want your transition to be as smooth as possible," Amelie smiles.
"Don't forget your fencing after school today. Piano will be at six," Gabriel reminds.
"Yes father, I'm prepared," Adrien nods, taking another scoop of food into his mouth.
"And do you have practice as well?" Gabriel turns to Félix.
"Basketball conditioning doesn't start for a few weeks, but I'll be looking for a martial arts studio," Félix notifies.
"Our driver can take you until Adrien needs to be picked up," Gabriel offers.
"Thank you," Félix accepts.
After eating, Adrien goes up to his room to pack his fencing gears. He sighs. Plagg stops eating his cheese momentarily to ask what's wrong.
"Something troubling you?" Plagg inquires.
"It's only the first day of school, and I already feel so overwhelmed with responsibilities."
"Why don't you talk to your father about cutting back your lessons? Like you did for summer."
"My father is already letting me go to public school. If he sees I can't handle everything, he'll think I need to be home-schooled again."
"Or he'll cut your lessons back. You're a good student, no need to drown yourself."
"I suppose. I'll talk to him when we both have time."
Back at school, Adrien's next two classes are on the third floor, computer science and biology. His last class, study hall, is in the library. Adrien changes into his fencing uniform before waiting out in the courtyard for practice. Kagami walks up to him, her helmet not covering her face.
"Would you do the warm-up exercises with me?" Kagami requests.
"Sure," Adrien agrees.
The two face each other and put their helmets down They go through the steps until their teacher grabs everyone's attention to move on to other exercises. By the time Adrien arrives home, he's exhausted. He doesn't have time to rest because his piano teacher is there and ready to begin. After which, Adrien eats some dinner before pouring himself into homework.
Adrien lies on his bed, ready for sleep. However, his day isn't quite done yet. His mother knocks on his door before entering. She smiles. Adrien sits up at her arrival.
"How was your day sweetie?" Emilie sits down next to him.
"Long. But good. Classes are going well. I have many classes with my friends," Adrien answers.
"I'm glad," Emilie runs her fingers through his hair.
"How was your day?"
"Not as exciting. I've been given a few scripts to look at though, so I guess it's time for me to be in another movie."
"Sounds exciting to me. What kinds of movies?"
"Some action, romance, and comedy. I'll get your opinion when I read through all the scripts they gave me."
"Great. I can't wait to hear about them," Adrien pauses. "How do you handle so many things at a time?"
Emilie tilts her head slightly, catching on to what her son is thinking about.
"Well, it's true I'm presented with a number of projects and works at a time, but I don't actually do them all. I have to pick, choose ones I want and turn down others I can't do."
"I see…"
"Adrien, honey, are you feeling overwhelmed?"
"What? No, I was just asking."
Emilie holds her son's hands.
"I know part of the deal last year for going to public school was keeping all of your regular lessons. But that was last year. This year will only get harder, demand more work and focus. If you want to cut back on your activities, then you need to let us know. Even your father doesn't expect you to be able to do everything."
"Really?"
"Of course. Sometimes he forgets that though, especially when you seem to excel at everything without struggle. But a mother can tell. You'll wear yourself too thin this way."
Adrien nods.
"Come with me to talk to him tomorrow?"
"There's no where else I'd rather be," Emilie pokes Adrien on the nose.
"I should get some sleep."
"Growing boys do need to be well rested."
Adrien climbs under the covers and lays himself back down. Emilie kisses his forehead, then turns out the lights and leaves. Adrien waits a few minutes before getting out of bed. He moves his pillow to take his place before calling on Plagg to transform.
September 3rd, Tuesday
The next morning, Adrien wakes up with plenty of time to enjoy breakfast. He's a little nervous about talking to his father. Don't get him wrong, he loves and respects his father, but sometimes he has a hard time seeing things from Adrien's perspective. Gabriel only wants best for his son since he himself didn't have these opportunities growing up.
Gabriel, Emilie, and Adrien are sitting at the dining table enjoying breakfast. Amelie and Félix have yet to come down to join them. Adrien figures this would be the best time to approach his father on the topic. He seems calm, coffee and the newspaper in hand. For once not having to endure a pun at the breakfast table.
"Father…" Adrien starts.
"Hm?" Gabriel half-acknowledges.
Emilie clears her throat and gently nudges her husband. Gabriel looks up at her to see her gesturing to their son. His attention is brought back into his focus.
"Sorry, yes son?" Gabriel tries again.
"I want to discuss a matter with you," Adrien requests.
"Of course. Which matter are you referring to?" Gabriel questions.
"My extra activities. I know that last year when I wanted to go to public school, I had to keep up with my other lessons as a condition, but I… want to amend that. Lycée will require more of my time. I'm not asking to stop them completely, but maybe cut back on my weekly hours," Adrien proposes.
Gabriel thinks about that. His son does have a point. He doesn't want Adrien to overextend himself and have grades start slipping, lose sleep, and other things that wouldn't be good.
"Nathalie and I will change your schedule and we can talk again later today. You can't miss your photoshoot though, and it would be impolite to cancel your Chinese today without a notice," Gabriel settles on.
"Thank you father," Adrien smiles.
Félix enters the dining room, only having enough time to grab a banana before Gorilla has to drive them to school. Adrien smiles the whole way there. He feels like he can breathe easily. He'll have more time for his school work and responsibility as Cat Noir.
His morning classes are the same as the day before. Though his afternoon classes will be different with advanced physics, a different study hall, and gym. Today his father is allowing him to eat at school or go out to eat as long as Félix isn't left out. Alya and Nino talk with Adrien about the plans.
"We should go to our favorite café. Félix can come too," Alya suggests.
"Sure, I think he's still in class. You two go ahead and get a table. We'll meet you there," Adrien agrees.
Nino and Alya look at each other, not sure how they feel about going with just themselves. It might be weird.
"Sure dude," Nino consents after a moment. "Just hurry. We need plenty of time to eat."
The two head down the steps. Before Adrien can enter the classroom, Chloe nearly tackles him in a hug.
"Adrikins! I'm so glad we have so many classes together again this year," Chloe greets.
"Me too, Chlo," Adrien returns with a half-smile.
Sometimes her antics bother Adrien, but he doesn't have it in his heart to say anything. He knows that she acts this way because of her mother. After visiting in the first time months ago and leaving during the summer for New York, Chloe hasn't taken it well.
Chloe pulls back from her hug, Sabrina quietly standing to the side.
"We have to have lunch this week at the hotel. It's been so long since we've hung out. Ridiculous, utterly ridiculous," Chloe plans.
"Sure. Maybe tomorrow."
Chloe smiles in triumph.
"See you later! Come on Sabrina."
The two head to the elevators. Adrien backtracks to the classroom. Félix has just finished putting his stuff together.
"Hey, Alya, Nino, and I are going to this really cool café for lunch. Want to come?" Adrien asks.
"That's alright. I'll just grab something from the cafeteria. I need to find some books at the library," Félix declines.
"Oh. Are you sure?"
"I'm sure. I'll see you later."
Félix leaves. Adrien shrugs and heads towards the café. He only makes it to the entrance of the school when Kagami meets up with him.
"Adrien, are you heading home for lunch?" Kagami inquires.
"No, I'm meeting up with Alya and Nino at a café. Félix is staying at the library," Adrien replies.
"Would it be acceptable if I joined?"
"Sure. Your mother doesn't mind?"
"I told her I had to study here, but I would rather have food with friends."
"Alright. Let's go."
"I have to put something in my locker. Will you wait for me?"
"No problem. I'll wait outside."
Kagami nods before heading to the locker room. Adrien walks down the steps and closer to the sidewalk. There's a bit of traffic considering most people are on their lunch break. A girl collides with him and falls over.
"I'm so sorry!" Adrien helps her up.
He realizes how small her hand is compared to his. Her hair is a dark blue and her eyes are a bright blue, like the sky or the ocean. Adrien can't decide. Her hair is in a loose braid. It seems the fall has dirtied her clothes a little. Or were they like that before? She smiles shyly.
"It's alright. It's not your fault," the girl says.
"Still. I should have been paying closer attention."
The girl smiles brighter. He's very kind, taking the blame for something that isn't his fault and helping her to her feet.
"Do you go to school there?" the girl gestures.
"Yeah, it's my first year. Do you go here too?"
The girl laughs lightly, almost finding the question funny. Adrien doesn't know why.
"No, I don't go to school here, but I am in the same grade."
"Oh, where do you go?"
"Adrien, I'm ready," Kagami walks up to them. "Oh, it wasn't my intention to interrupt."
"No, I was just leaving. Please, enjoy your lunch. Thank you for helping me."
The girl smiles before disappearing into the crowd.
"Do you know her?" Kagami queries.
"No, I… I just met her," Adrien stumbles, finally focusing back on Kagami.
Kagami nods. She wishes she could tell Adrien how she feels. It's so unlike her to hesitate with anything, why is confessing any different? Nevertheless, Kagami holds off on saying her true thoughts on the matter.
"Let's go to lunch. Nino and Alya can't stand being together long," Kagami changes topics.
"Right. I'm also starving," Adrien agrees.
Kagami turns and begins to walk down the sidewalk. Adrien looks back down the way where that girl disappeared to. Something felt strange about her, somehow familiar, he can't figure out what or how though. Oh well, it's not like he's met her before. Adrien dismisses the feeling and catches up with Kagami to the café, thinking he'll never see the girl again anyway.
First chapter done! Thanks for reading. Just a couple of things I need to say.
1) The lyrics at the beginning are obviously not mine. They come from True Colors written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly.
2) The school name is made up. Supposed to sound like a person's name like their old school, but it's not based on anyone in real life.
3) I believe Tom and Sabine would have a child even with busy work (probably what happened with Marinette) but needed a reason why they don't have any kids.
4) As you can see some relationships are different (Nino and Alya, Kagami and Luka, etc.), would they not happen for because of LB/Mari? Maybe, they don't in this story.
5) Question of the chapter… just tell me your thoughts so far about this chapter and for the future. AND PLEASE REVIEW!