TRUE COLORS
*Cue sad finale music*
I can't believe this is the end! Even though I took many months off lol. So sorry. School was intense and summer was so nice doing nothing. Thank you to everyone who has been on this journey with me. Whether it was from the very first chapter of the first story or years after I've finished writing this.
Apologize for inaccuracy in Parisian graduation. It looks like most schools don't have graduation ceremonies.
CaulderPine: Yes! Hope you are excited that this chapter is out too. I'm so happy you loved the last chapter. I enjoyed writing that part.
Jeremiah Skywalker: Yes. Made it haha. Thank you! Can't remember the 30th but I'm sure it was a great day.
Without further ado, I present the last (*cries*) chapter of this story…
True Colors
Chapter 22: After the End
"The whole city celebrated coming back to Paris. It took a week to get everything back to normal. Everything was recovered from the warehouse the Menaces used as base and was returned to the city. Everyone was glad to know that the Menaces would no longer be a problem and hoped Paris could take a break from the chaos. We were happy to be back in school, as odd as that seems, but not everyone came back."
The students at Lycée Josué Trudeau talk amongst their French Literature class. All but Marinette. She stares at an empty seat near the back.
"Mrs. Rossi found out about some of Lila's lies and that she was one of the Menaces. But since Lila doesn't remember any of it and denied the implication, it only added another lie in her mother's eyes. They moved back to Spain and Lila was enrolled in an all-girls boarding school. No one was sad to see her go. But that wasn't the only change. With the battle over, Marinette and I decided everyone should keep their miraculous and kwami with them. After everything settled back down, we handed out new miraculouses."
Over a few days Mireille, Wayhem, Ondine, Denise, Jean, Daniel, Geneviève, Ethan, Paul, Ulysse, Léonie, Bleu, and even Delmar receive a miraculous from the second Miracle Box.
"Delmar became our ears in the States. Sabrina enjoyed getting to see him every once and a while. Once Paris fully recovered the Miraculous Heroes (our new name or MH for short) started looking into working on a project. Master Chen told us the world might need our help. The world was changing, and darkness everywhere started to rise. But the world is a huge area to cover. Max created a program that we could use. When an emergency is input into our site, either by someone typing it in or uploading a video, it generates which heroes' powers would be best suited for the situation."
On off days the group studies, trains, or hangs out together. Max didn't always go on missions, but he helped others teleport to other countries all over the world.
"We grew closer, we became a family. An effective group of heroes that the world started to turn to in need. The Miraculous Heroes helped people in various countries, mostly in the eastern hemisphere. The heroes in the United States opened to more in North America while South America had a rise of their own heroes. That doesn't mean that over the years we wouldn't help them if they called. And when some MH graduated, they stayed nearby. When Delmar finished high school, he decided to take a gap year and live in France. It didn't take him long to decide to apply to schools here. The following year, the rest of us graduated from Lycée. The day we first got our miraculouses felt so long ago."
TWO YEARS AFTER THE MENACES' DEFEAT
Marinette is filling out some paperwork at the front office. She signs a few things before putting them into a tray on one of the lady's desk. The older woman stops her typing and smiles.
"Thank you, Ms. Dupain-Cheng and congratulations! We're going to miss you here," the woman shares.
"Thank you. I'll miss you all too. And thanks to everyone for everything you've done. Including accepting some late paperwork," Marinette laughs.
The woman laughs back.
"Shhh," the woman continues. "I could still get in trouble."
"I'm sorry," Marinette covers her mouth. "Next time you come into the bakery, the sweets are on me."
"Thank you, Marinette. Now get out of here!" the woman tries to shoo her away. "You're free. Go have fun."
"I will. Don't work too hard," Marinette waves.
She leaves the school and starts walking down the sidewalk towards the bakery. She's busy texting on her phone when a cat suddenly scoops her up and takes to the roof. A gasp leaves her lips before the air rushes from her lungs. Cat Noir snickers at her reaction.
"You mangy cat!" Marinette whacks his arm. "You scared me!"
"I know! And it works every time," Cat Noir muses.
"What are you doing here? I thought you were busy," Marinette changes topics.
"I got done early. What are you just leaving school for? We got out hours ago."
"I had some class president stuff to do before the graduation ceremony. I was heading home for a little while."
"You always work too hard. You better have fun this summer."
"Of course, I will! Your father said I could intern for him as much as I want. I think I'll go almost every–"
Cat deliberately jostles Marinette in his arms and "almost" drops her.
"Eep!" Marinette glares at Cat Noir. "Why did you do that?!"
"Because that doesn't sound like fun. I meant go out into the world and stuff. Go crazy! Go on dates with me!"
"Alright, alright. I won't work the whole summer."
"Good."
Cat Noir lands awkwardly through the window into Marinette's living room. Sabine jumps and nearly drops the tray of food in her hands. She smiles.
"Hello Cat Noir. It's good to see you," Sabine greets. "I just got some snacks for Marinette. Do you want anything else?"
"I'm alright," Cat Noir puts Marinette down.
"Just cheese then," Sabine puts the tray down.
She grabs a small block of Cambrie from the fridge.
"Thanks. Claws off!"
"Cheeseeee!" Plagg flies directly over to Sabine. "You've always been my favorite."
"That just hurts," Adrien pouts.
Marinette giggles.
"You poor baby," Marinette ruffles his hair.
Tikki comes out of Marinette's purse.
"Plagg, you should be more aware of your words. You're going to hurt Adrien's feelings. He's your chosen," Tikki lightly scolds.
"I got some cookies for you too," Sabine shows.
Tikki's eyes light up. Marinette watches her kwami carefully. Tikki clears her throat and calms her reaction.
"Thank you," Tikki grabs one.
Tom walks into the room.
"Adrien my boy!" Tom scoops him up in a tight hug.
Adrien tries to breathe and lightly taps Tom's arms. Marinette leans close to him.
"Doesn't feel so good, does it?" Marinette smirks.
Tom finally releases him then offers a pat on the back.
"Did you close for lunch?" Adrien asks.
"Nope. Marinette's grandma and grandpa are down there," Tom reveals.
"Grandma is here? I thought you said she couldn't make it!" Marinette rejoices.
"She changed some plans to be here. None of us could miss out on this important day," Tom smiles.
"I should go down and say hello. I'll be right back," Marinette kisses Adrien on the cheek.
Marinette quickly makes her way down the stairs, leaving Adrien with her parents.
"So, Adrien, are your parents going to be at the graduation ceremony tonight?" Sabine inquires.
"They should be. My father said he made sure nothing would be scheduled. My mom made sure of that too," Adrien answers.
"Are you excited to be done with school? Well until university," Tom brings up.
"I am. It'll be really nice. I'm just hoping I can convince Marinette to enjoy her last summer," Adrien admits.
"Please do. She spent so much time the last two years taking additional classes. I'm not sure she remembers what fun is," Sabine agrees.
"She stayed up all night working on a design," Tikki tattles.
"Will she be able to stay awake tonight?" Tom wonders.
"She's been drinking cups of coffee all day," Tikki inputs.
"She's such an addict," Plagg criticizes.
"Like you're one to talk," Adrien raises an eyebrow.
"What do you mean?" Plagg puzzles.
"Never mind," Adrien dismisses. "Anyway, do you guys need any help with anything before we have to go?"
"You're always offering to help. Just sit, relax. We have everything covered," Sabine assures.
"Unless you want to taste-test some food we've made for tonight," Tom offers.
"I'd love to!" Adrien beams.
The two head to the stairs where they run into Marinette.
"Taste-testing?" Marinette guesses.
Tom looks away, not able to look Marinette in the eye.
"Maybe…?" Adrien lowers his voice.
"Mhm, you," Marinette points at her father first. "Go back downstairs, they need your help with something. And you, back upstairs before I kick you out."
"Not onto the streets! That's no place for a well-behaved cat!" Adrien whines.
"Well, I'm make sure I don't do that when I find one," Marinette jokes.
Adrien fake gasps.
"Come on," Marinette continues up the stairs.
Tom and Adrien look at each other.
"Be strong Adrien. You don't have to listen to her. We can still get some treats. We won't go overboard… like last time," Tom persuades.
"Yeah," Adrien shivers. "Marinette didn't forgive me for almost a whole week."
"Sabine still gives me a hard time about it," Tom shakes his head.
"Come here Kitty, Kitty," Marinette calls from the top of the stairs. "I have a treat for you."
Adrien perks up.
"Treat? I like treats."
"Adrien, don't! We know it's a trap."
"Better hurry before they all run out," Marinette warns.
Tom shakes his head vigorously.
"Coming!" Adrien ignores him and runs up the steps.
Tom shakes his head again in defeat.
"TOM!" Gina calls from downstairs.
"Coming mother!" Tom hurries his steps.
Adrien and Marinette hang out upstairs before heading back to school. All the graduating students gather in the première hangout to line up in their cap and gowns. Marinette is making her rounds when she runs into Max.
"Max! Congratulations on being Major de promotion. That's huge," Marinette praises.
"Thank you. I heard you did very well too," Max returns.
"I did my best," Marinette shrugs. "What are you doing over the summer?"
"My university is having a robotics program. We're supposed to go to Germany for a few weeks as well," Max shares.
"That's exciting! Congrats again. Hope you remember us when you're the leading robotic engineer in the world."
"I'm not sure that will happen, but I promise I'll never forget you guys. And don't worry, this won't affect my duties for MH."
"I'm not worried. But you're going tonight, right?"
"I wouldn't miss it."
"Excellent. See you later."
Marinette moves on when Alya pulls her aside.
"Marinette! I found the perfect place for us!" Alya bursts.
"Really? Let me see!" Marinette takes her phone. "Two bedrooms… one bathroom… decent size kitchen and living space…"
"And look at the price!" Alya points out.
Marinette's eyes widen.
"That can't be real!" Marinette freaks.
"But it is. And the place has its own laundry," Alya grins.
"How did you find this?"
"You kidding? I'm the best reporter ever. Nothing gets by me. That and it's useful to have connections everywhere."
"Have the other girls seen this?"
"Yep. You were the only one left."
"I say go for it!"
"Already called and we can check it out tomorrow."
"Oh, you already called? Without getting my opinion?"
"I know you so well," Alya winks.
Marinette shakes her head.
"What has you two girls so giddy?" Nino interjects.
Nino and Adrien join the conversation.
"Alya might have found us an apartment. We're checking it out tomorrow," Marinette informs.
"An apartment? You two are living together?" Adrien puzzles.
The two girls laugh.
"Of course. Along with Kagami and Aurore. Thought you knew. The other girls are living together too. Alix, Mylène, Juleka, and Rose; Mireille, Ondine, Denise, and Geneviève; Chloe and Sabrina," Marinette enlightens.
"What are we doing? I was planning on rooming with a stranger on campus," Nino shakes his head.
"Men," Alya laughs. "Summer is just starting. It's not too late to try. Besides, I thought we went over living together because it'd be easier to sneak out as heroes."
"Think the guys were too busy playing some new video game that meeting," Marinette recalls.
"That's actually smart. Okay dude, tomorrow we go apartment hunting," Nino decides.
"Got it. After some sleep," Adrien agrees.
"Hmm, maybe the day after tomorrow," Nino changes.
Alya and Marinette laugh.
"Attention, students," a teacher raises his voice. "Get into line, we're about to head out."
"Guess that's our cue to disperse," Marinette sighs.
"Good luck out there," Nino wishes.
"Your speech will kick butt," Alya supports.
"Thanks you guys," Marinette thanks.
"Love you Sunflower," Adrien kisses her cheek. "I'll meet up with you after."
The students line up and wait for their signal before marching to the theatre. The parents clap and cheer from their seat as the students enter. The students take their seats in the empty, first few rows. The graduation ceremony commences. The principal speaks, a teacher speaks, Max gives a speech, and Marinette gives one too as class president.
The kwamis all sit up above on the theatre catwalk.
"Can you believe they're graduating! It's so exciting," Tikki bubbles.
"Honestly Tikki, I've lost track of how many of these types of things we've been too. All they do is talk and talk and talk," Plagg complains.
"Oh Plagg, just enjoy it. For Adrien," Tikki nags.
"Fine. Only because all of us have never been to one together," Plagg gives in.
All the students walk across and receive their diplomas. Before they know it, the ceremony is complete. However, people don't leave right away. Parents and students mingle and take pictures. There's food and drinks. While her parents are talking to Alya's parents, Marinette goes over to Mr. and Mrs. Agreste.
"What a wonderful speech! And congratulations!" Emilie gives Marinette a hug.
"Thank you! And congrats on your new movie! I'm looking forward to seeing it next month," Marinette hugs back.
"Oh, so you're willing to take time away from interning with my husband?" Emilie raises an eyebrow as she pulls away.
Marinette blushes in embarrassment.
"I can't get enough of it," Marinette reasons sheepishly.
Emilie turns to her husband.
"If you overwork her there will be consequences. Let her live her life. This is the last summer before university!" Emilie points her finger.
"Yes, whatever you say dear," Gabriel agrees.
"Seriously, every time I look for Marinette, she's in my father's workshop. I'd like to hang with my girlfriend every once in a while," Adrien laughs.
The other three laugh.
"Here you all are," Clément Lavigne joins in.
Nathalie is by his side.
"Congratulations you two. It's quite the achievement," Nathalie congratulates.
"Thanks. I had no idea you were coming," Marinette admits.
"We were in a celebratory mood," Clément smiles brighter.
"Oh? What's the occasion?" Adrien asks.
Nathalie holds up her left hand.
Emilie and Marinette squeal.
"Nathalie! When did this happen?!" Emilie gushes.
"Congratulations! That's so exciting!" Marinette jumps up and down.
"You'll have to give me all the details over lunch tomorrow," Emilie invites.
"Sure, I'm available," Nathalie accepts.
"Can you come as well, Marinette?" Emilie extends her offer.
"I'll have to get back to you. Alya, Kagami, Aurore, and I are going to look at an apartment tomorrow," Marinette relays.
"Let me know, we can always push it back to dinner. If that works for you Nathalie," Emilie offers.
"I'm flexible," Nathalie nods.
"Do I hear dinner plans?" Amelie interjects.
"Yes. Marinette, Nathalie, and I are going to have lunch or dinner tomorrow to talk about her engagement," Emilie answers.
"Engagement?" Amelie wonders. "Who's engaged?"
Her eyes travel to Marinette. She holds up her hands in defense.
"Don't look at me," Marinette laughs lightly. "I just graduated a few minutes ago."
"Yeah, I don't think we're there quite yet," Adrien rubs the back of his neck nervously.
"Nathalie!" Amelie notices her ring. "It's beautiful! Congratulations. I'd love to hear all about it if I'm not overstepping."
"Not at all," Nathalie assures.
"Oh wait! I think Chloe and I are having lunch tomorrow," Amelie realizes.
"Invite her too," Nathalie shrugs.
"Invite any more people and might as well throw a party," Adrien jokes.
Emilie's eyes light up with a gasp and an idea.
"No," Nathalie denies immediately.
"Not tomorrow then. But we'll have to throw an engagement party at some point," Emilie decides.
"What time is it?" Gabriel looks at his watch. "What time is your class leaving for grad nite?"
"In just over an hour. We've got plenty of time," Adrien replies.
"I should go check in on my parents. See if they need any help before I go," Marinette brings up.
"I can help," Adrien volunteers.
"I'll come find you if I need," Marinette smiles.
"Alright," Adrien kisses her cheek.
"First let me get a picture of you two!" Emilie pulls out her phone.
"Sure!" Adrien wraps his arms around Marinette.
Emilie takes a few… dozen pictures before letting them go. Marinette meets up with her parents and takes pictures with some other students and friends.
It takes almost an hour for the school to be cleared. But it doesn't stay that way for long. Not too long later, most of the students return for grad nite. Adrien and Nino are on the phone, desperately looking for places to live.
"Dude. How do people find places in Paris? There's hardly any options!" Nino complains.
"Alya mentioned connections or something. But I'm not sure who that would be," Adrien figures.
"Maybe we just need more help. I mean it wouldn't just be the two of us living together, right?"
Adrien shrugs.
"It is kind of last minute. Think the guys are still looking?"
"I remember a lot of video game stuff from that supposed meeting. No talking of apartment hunting. I'm sure all the guys are in the same boat."
Adrien spots some of the guys and gestures them over.
"Hey, did you know we're supposed to find apartments and places to live instead of living on campus?" Adrien starts.
"Yeah, the girls mentioned it some time ago," Nathaniel speaks up.
"It took us a month to find a decent place. Almost didn't get it," Ivan adds.
"A month?" Nino stresses.
"Yeah, but at least that wasn't during the summer so at least we had a chance," Marc stresses the two out.
"I'm so glad they asked me to live with them," Wayhem beams.
"You asked Wayhem before us?" Nino puzzles then realizes his words. "Ah, uh, no offense."
Wayhem shrugs it off.
"Sure. Figured you two already had a place with others," Nathaniel admits.
"You telling us you guys actually forgot?" Marc muses.
"Technically that's not true," Nino defends.
"Yeah, we just didn't know about it in the first place," Adrien divulges.
The four guys laugh.
"Good luck," Marc wishes them.
The four of them keep walking.
"Well okay that was a bust. Who's left?" Nino wonders.
The two of them text other guys.
"That leaves out Jean, Daniel, Paul, and Ethan. They're already rooming together. Found a place weeks ago," Adrien sighs.
"What about Kim and Max?" Nino suggests.
"Already found a place," Adrien reads. "With Delmar too."
"There's Felix," Nino thinks of.
"What about me?" Felix appears.
The two jump.
"Dude! How are you still able to scare us after all these years?" Nino wonders.
Felix shrugs.
"We were talking about finding an apartment with us. We're a little late to the game," Adrien clarifies.
"What makes you think I haven't already found a place?" Felix counters.
"With whom?!" Nino nearly loses it.
"Kim, Max, and Delmar," Felix reveals.
"What?! But you don't know them as well as us," Nino freaks.
"They asked me," Felix defends.
"Why?" Adrien questions.
"I'm assuming for my money. I found a really nice place close to Max's university. Very high end. And I find the three of them to be mostly tolerable," Felix explains.
"We're mostly tolerable," Nino points out.
"Yeah well… good luck," Felix leaves.
"Just great," Nino sighs. "Is there anyone left?"
"You two having issues? Everyone is whispering about you," Alya prods.
"I find it to be educational," Kagami enjoys.
"Sounds like you're asking everyone to live with them. You guys haven't been working on that?" Aurore notes.
"They got a little distracted," Marinette teases.
"Help us," Adrien pleads.
"Don't beg them! They're teasing us," Nino scolds.
"Oh, if you insist. I had a lead but if you have it covered…" Marinette draws out.
"I know someone else looking too," Kagami concurs.
Adrien looks at Nino.
"Fine," Nino gives in.
"Please help us," Adrien emphasizes.
"Bleu has been talking to a good family friend. He's a real-estate agent. He's been putting off looking for a place too," Marinette shares. "I'm surprised you didn't know about Bleu. You are cousins."
"Luka is looking as well. His plans fell through," Kagami mentions.
"I'll text Bleu," Adrien volunteers.
"I've got Luka," Nino decides.
The girls shake their heads.
"Maybe they won't notice if the bus leaves without them," Kagami ponders before approaching the bus.
"Probably not," Alya moves on too.
"Come on you two," Marinette drags them.
The two guys sit next to each other on the bus, waiting to hear back from Luka and Bleu. They're also hoping some apartment randomly opens up on their search this late. Before either one can stop her, Alya swipes their phones.
"Hey!' Nino protests while narrowing his eyes.
"I was looking something up," Adrien adds.
Alya rolls her eyes.
"We're supposed to celebrating the end of school! You're gonna wreck it for everyone with your dark cloud attitudes," Alya points out.
"Plan tomorrow. One more day isn't going to make a difference," Marinette convinces.
"Fine," Nino sighs. "Guess you're right. We did earn the right to have fun."
"Thanks for intervening," Adrien thanks.
The two guys hold out their hands for their phone. Alya sticks them in her fanny pack and zips it out.
"They're my captives until the end of the evening," Alya determines.
The guys pout. Marinette laughs.
The bus pulls up to the location of their Grad Nite, Adrenaline Theme Park. Before everyone races to line to get in, one of the teachers gets their attention.
"Before you get in line, there's one more thing we have to announce," the teacher starts.
"Our school was one of the few that won the drawing, so everyone gets a Rush pass. You can use this to skip the long line," Marinette finishes.
"If you want one, please come grab them then get in line. The park closes at 3am so please be back at the bus by 3:20 so we can leave in a timely matter," the teacher concludes.
Once wrist bands are handed out, the students get into the line. The gates are opened up a couple minutes before nine.
Marinette, Adrien, Alya, and Nino are walking together when they notice they have a few extra people following them… Kagami, Aurore, Nathaniel, Marc, Felix, Chloe, Sabrina, and Mireille are right behind them.
"Hey guys, come to join the party?" Marinette inquires.
"Everyone else split and went in different directions. Is it okay if we come with you?" Nathaniel asks.
"Are we leeching off you like pests?" Kagami deadpans.
"Not at all," Adrien laughs. "The more the merrier."
"Yeah! It'll be like that time Adrien had his birthday here," Alya reminds.
"I was not invited," Aurore points out. "Not that I blame you, that was during the wish."
"And yet even Marinette got to go," Marc points out.
The group laughs. The twelve of them enjoy skipping most of the line and riding as many rollercoasters as possible. They stop briefly for a snack before continuing. At one, the group disperses to get in the rides they really want. Adrien and Marinette are in line for Black Galaxy.
"I love this ride," Marinette shares.
"Remember riding it on my birthday?" Adrien inquires.
"Of course," Marinette nods with a blush. "You held my hand and I tried not to let you see me blush."
Adrien laughs.
"I wish I could have seen it. You're adorable when your face is all red," Adrien pokes her cheek.
"Well, I don't blush because of you anymore," Marinette argues embarrassed.
"Oh, no? We'll see about that," Adrien challenges.
He pulls out a small box from his pocket. Marinette's eyes widen.
"Is it…?"
"I wish," Adrien denies.
He opens the box to a double heart gemstone ring with accents. The single band in the back splits to a double band in the front. On the top band are three smaller cubic zirconia gems with a heart-shaped ruby. On the bottom band is a heart-shaped smokey quartz gem then three smaller cubic zirconia gems. Though she can't see it at the moment, engraved on the inside is "I Love You My Sunflower"
"It's a promise ring. Because while I'd love to marry you, I know you're going to start fashion school. I want you to have the freedom you need to explore every aspect and I don't want to hold you back in any way. So, this is a promise, that one day, when we're ready I'll officially get down on one knee and ask to spend the rest of my life with you," Adrien shares.
Marinette is nearly in tears; a small amount of red is dusted on her cheeks.
"I love you, Adrien. And I'd love nothing more than to hold you to your promise," Marinette smiles.
She offers her hand so Adrien can place the ring on her finger. The two share a kiss before the students behind them demand they keep moving forward. The two hold hands throughout the ride. They enjoy every moment together and every second on the rides.
The bus ride home is certainly interesting. It takes the whole ride to convince everyone that "no they're not engaged". But that doesn't stop the wedding talks and plans.
The following afternoon, Nathalie, Emilie, Amelie, Chloe, and Marinette are sitting in the Agreste dining room having a tea party.
"I'm so glad you could all be here," Emilie welcomes.
"Thank you for inviting us," Amelie thanks.
"And for including me. I appreciate that," Chloe adds.
"Of course! So, Marinette, how did the apartment go?" Emilie wonders.
"Well! We signed the lease. We move in next month," Marinette answers.
"How exciting. Adrien is out looking for a place. Last minute as usual," Emilie teases.
"Now, didn't we come to talk about Nathalie's engagement? I've been dying to know all the details!" Amelie interrupts. "When did he ask? How? When's the wedding?"
Nathalie's eyes widen before she clears her throat.
"We went out to dinner last night before the graduation. He got down on one knee during dessert. I said yes," Nathalie explains. "We don't have a date yet. Maybe the winter or spring."
"A winter wedding. How beautiful," Emilie gushes. "If you need any help planning the wedding, please just ask."
"Isn't that part of being a maid of honor?" Nathalie deadpans.
"MAID OF HONOR?!" the others are shocked.
Emilie holds a hand over her heart.
"A-Are you serious?" Emilie is in disbelief.
"You are my best friend. Do you not want to do it?" Nathalie figures.
"Of course, I want to!" Emilie stands with a raised voice. "I'm just so happy! I have so many ideas for parties already."
"I want to help too," Amelie slightly whines.
"You can," Nathalie allows. "You're a bridesmaid."
"Joy! Thank you!" Amelie rejoices.
Marinette laughs.
"This is turning into a very joyous lunch," Marinette muses.
"Marinette, would you design my dress? I'll pay you of course," Nathalie requests.
Marinette is speechless.
"You want me to design it? But you work for Gabriel Agreste. I'm sure he'd be more than happy to make your dress and it would be beautiful," Marinette informs.
"I'm sure he could. But I want you. I would be honored to wear one of your designs," Nathalie decides.
"Then yes. I would love to make your dress," Marinette accepts.
"You sure you won't have too much work with school?" Nathalie reminds.
"I'll do it," Marinette ensures. "Just let me know when you can sit down for measurements and talk about what you'd like."
"I'll check my schedule," Nathalie promises.
The women continue with their joyous conversation with wedding plans and summer activities. Meanwhile Adrien sends Marinette various texts complaining about the hardships of apartment hunting. Seems like the guys aren't having much luck. Alya shares her contact to help their search. The women spend the rest of the day discussing plans for the wedding, talking about future plans for the fall, and anything else they could think of.
THE NEXT DAY
All of the MH members are gathered at the park. Thankfully the heat isn't blistering. The group is able to enjoy themselves. Everyone is able to appear, the first nineteen members and the newer thirteen members. In a pot-luck style, everyone brings something to share for a huge picnic. Some people bring games as well. After eating, some people throw the frisbee around while others play volleyball. The more unathletic types cheer on the more athletic members.
Meanwhile, the kwamis are forced to hide in the trees or in some bags enjoying snacks of their own. After a couple hours, the staggering thirty-two of them are able to sit together in a way that they can hear each other. Fortunately, most people have left the park at this hour, and the ones that are there aren't close to the group. That means our heroes can be as loud as they want. The kwamis have moved out to the middle of the group, hidden enough to be safe.
"This is so nice," Delmar notes. "I'm so glad all of us could be here today."
"Yeah, this is rare. Our lives are going to be so busy between school, jobs, and superheroing, who knows when this will happen again," Aurore points out.
"What if we grow apart?!" Rose worries.
"I'm not worried," Marinette eases everyone with a smile. "We're forever connected. And not because we're heroes who work together."
Adrien wraps his arm around Marinette.
"We're friends, no, family first. We may spend a lot of time apart, Aurore's right, and who knows when all of us can meet up again at the same time? I'm not giving up. This is forever. And forever together outlives the time apart," Adrien agrees.
"Dang dude," Nino slaps Adrien on the back. "When did you get all sappy?"
The laughter that follows slightly embarrasses Adrien.
"Maybe we can try to at least get together one more time before the fall," Daniel hopes.
"I'll have to check my schedule, but we definitely should try," Geneviève concurs.
"I'm sure we can have a party at my dad's hotel," Chloe inputs.
"I'll be there if Sabrina is," Delmar grabs her hands with a smile.
Sabrina blushes.
"I'm positive I can make it," Sabrina giggles.
"How come we have so many mushy couples in this group?" Félix slightly grumbles.
"What are you talking about? You're part of a mushy couple," Luka points out.
"You don't see Chloe and me holding hands and stuff," Félix argues.
"Yeah. We're not like that," Chloe defends with a slight blush on her cheeks.
Ondine notes the time.
"Sorry guys but I have to get going. I have an early morning at work," Ondine explains.
"I guess it is pretty late. We should pack up our stuff," Alya nods.
It doesn't take long for them to throw away their trash and gather their supplies. Just as they're saying their goodbyes, an alert pops up on Max's watch.
"There's a huge wildfire in California. They could use help evaluating, creating barriers, and putting out the fire," Max announces. "I have the hero suggestions if they're available."
Everyone looks at each other with a nod and a smile.
"I think we'll all go this time," Adrien decides.
"You hear that people? Transform and meet up if you can go," Marinette adds.
The group disperses to transform in private and meet back up to teleport to California. Pegasus creates the portal. Cat Noir grabs Ladybug's hand and gives it a gentle kiss.
"Ready to lead the charge?" Cat Noir grins.
Ladybug nods.
"Heroes…" Ladybug directs to everyone. "let's go kick some fire butt!"
Everyone cheers. Cat Noir laughs.
"That was terrible," Cat Noir criticizes quietly.
Ladybug groans.
"I know, this is why you're supposed to come up with the clever sayings," Ladybug claims.
"Next time Bugaboo, we have a mission," Cat Noir winks.
He drags Ladybug into a run through the portal. The group follows. With the last member crossed, the portal closes.
"And once we landed on the other side, we could see the smoke gathered throughout the sky. The fire was just a few miles away," Adrien retells.
An older Adrien is sitting at the end of a bed in a girl's room. There are two small children's beds with a little girl in each. A slightly older boy lays on the other bed with one of his sisters. Marinette walks into the room. While Adrien doesn't look much different besides maturity and height, Marinette's hair has grown. Though it's hard to tell with her hair up in a ponytail.
"What are you up to troublemaker?" Marinette teases.
"Louis is being well-behaved, listening well to the story," Adrien defends.
"I was talking about you, silly cat," Marinette sticks out her tongue.
The children laugh.
"Dad is telling us the story of a fire in California," Louis mentions.
"Are you telling the whole truth?" Marinette raises an eyebrow.
Adrien stands and wraps his arms around Marinette, picking her up and spinning her around.
"What do you take me for? I always tell the stories just as they happened," Adrien jokes.
"Put me down! You'll mess up my dress!" Marinette laughs.
Adrien puts her down gently.
"You do look beautiful," Adrien gives in.
"Where are you going mommy?" one of the girls asks.
"Dad and I have a dinner at your grandparent's house for our weekly visit. We're also seeing some old friends that come into town every once in a while," Marinette shares.
"I want to see grandpa and grandma!" the other little girl protests.
"I'm sorry, we're going to be out way past your bedtime. But I promise you'll get to see them next week," Marinette promises.
"Besides it's a grown-up dinner. You'll have so much more fun with Manon," Adrien reveals.
"Manon is going to watch us?!" the first little girl beams.
"Yay!" the other girl cheers.
Louis groans.
"I'm always the only guy," Louis complains.
"Next time I'll try to find a guy sitter or invite Otis over when Auntie Alya and Uncle Nino need a sitter too," Marinette suggests.
"That works," Louis accepts.
There's a knock on the door.
"I'll get it!" the older girl volunteers.
The two girls run to the door. Marinette follows to make sure it's actually Manon on the other side. Adrien changes while Marinette goes over some things for Manon: what the kids can eat, what they can do, and what time bedtime is.
"I appreciate you being able to come over," Marinette smiles.
"Of course," Manon smiles back.
Adrien enters the room in nice slacks and a shirt with a tie.
"Are we ready?" Adrien inquires.
"I think so," Marinette turns to her kids. "Children, behave for Manon and listen to everything she says."
"We will mom," Louis tells.
"Will you be back before we go to bed?" the littlest questions.
"We won't but I promise to give you a kiss when we get back when you're asleep," Marinette guesses correctly.
Marinette gives each of her kids a kiss. Adrien does the same.
"Alright, good night Louis, Emma, and Huguetta," Marinette wishes.
Marinette and Adrien lock the door behind them. They drive to the Agreste Mansion and are able to park in the driveway. It looks like they're the last to arrive by the number of cars already there. Adrien leans over a gives Marinette a kiss. The kiss gets deeper.
"You know, we're already late," Adrien waves his eyebrows suggestively.
"Yeah, which means we should hurry and get inside," Marinette denies with a smirk.
"You're no fun," Adrien pouts.
Marinette sticks out her tongue before exiting the car. Adrien follows. Once they get to the door, Adrien traps her against the door and kisses her again with more passion.
"You're going to mess up my hair and make-up. And we're late," Marinette warns.
"But Mrs. Agreste, how am I supposed to resist you like this?" Adrien kisses her lips, down to her neck.
Marinette enjoys the sensations, but she knows how everyone is waiting for them. She discretely presses the doorbell button that sends the noise throughout the house. Adrien pulls back.
"You little sneak," Adrien scolds.
"Don't worry, I'm sure you can find a way to still get lucky," Marinette teases him.
The door is opened.
"You're here! Come in, everyone is waiting for you," Emilie moves aside for them. They make their way to the dining room where Gabriel, Tom, Sabine, Master Fu, Marianne, Amelie, Amelie's husband, Félix, Chloe, Andre, Audrey, Bleu, Geneviève, and Bleu's parents are already sitting.
"What took you two so long?" Chloe smirks.
"Our babysitter couldn't come any sooner," Marinette reasons.
"It doesn't matter. Let's all sit. Dinner is ready," Gabriel interrupts.
While the adults are talking, the kwamis are sitting at the other end of the table enjoying their own meal.
"I love these family dinners," Plagg pats his tummy.
"You love anything that comes with cheese," Tikki rolls her eyes.
"What can I say, it's still the best food," Plagg shrugs.
"It's not polite to speak with your mouth full," Pollen brings up.
"I can't believe we're still out of the box to eat food. This is the longest we've ever been active at a time," Nooroo notes.
"They're the best I've ever worked with," Tikki smiles.
"You think they'll give their miraculouses to their kids when they get older?" the cheetah kwami wonders.
The kwamis think about it.
"Guess we'll just have to see," Tikki shrugs.
"I don't care who it is as long as I get my cheese," Plagg grabs some more.
After the dinner party, Adrien drives back home. He grabs Marinette's hand but takes her away from the front door.
"Where are we going?" Marinette asks.
"Care for a swing through the city?" Adrien suggests.
It doesn't take much to convince Marinette to transform and swing through the city. After a few minutes, the two sit on top of the Eiffel Tower and look at all the lights. They sit in silence before Adrien asks a question.
"Did you ever think this would be our life when Master Fu gave you the miraculous?"
"Not even close. But because of that, all my dreams have come true."
"Things I couldn't even dream of came true."
"Oh, it's going to be like that is it?" Ladybug bumps his shoulder with her own.
"Always Milady. You know who you married."
"And I'm thankful for it every day."
"Aww, my heart just skipped a beat."
"I will throw you off this tower!"
"You'd have to catch me first."
He playfully shoves Ladybug aside while he stands and flees.
"Looks like we'll be playing cat and mouse, but this time you're my prey!"
Ladybug and Cat Noir run through the city, chasing each other. For the first time in a while, they feel as carefree and young as they did years ago.
FIN
I am so sad! The end! But I hope you all enjoyed my stories.
Guessing Grad night isn't a thing either. Well, I put it there anyway.
I will write other fanfictions for other shows and movies. I'm really excited about some I have planned. Not sure I will write another Miraculous Ladybug fanfiction. If I do it will be after season 5 has come fully out. I can't freaking wait! But I'm seriously upset they haven't found out AND remembered each other's secret identity. Reading some spoilers (which I won't mention) I might die. Bring on the love!
Thank you all again. Not sure what else to add so I'll end my thoughts here. Stealing Ladybug's words, Bug out!
Lexi