Disclaimer: Don't own and never will

Scars.

There were scars everywhere. Across her arms, across her legs and across her face. Scars that would permanently mark her, scars that would be noticeable for all the wrong reasons and yet, Marinette was smiling.

Kagami could hardly bring herself to look at her girlfriend. It was her weakness that had led to Marinette being hurt. Her failing and Marinette had paid a heavy price for it. Marinette had taken the blow for her because she was too weak.

"Marinette...I..." For once, Kagami struggled with her words. What could she say anyway? What could she say that would possibly make it right? She swallowed. She had never hesitated before. She was not about to start now. "Marinette, because of my weakness, you have been hurt. I am sorry. If you...want some space from me or-"

Kagami was abruptly cut off with a kiss.

"Kagami Tsurugi, I was not hurt because of your weakness!" she said slightly indignantly. Her expression softened. "I was hurt protecting the one that I love. I was hurt stopping that creep from hurting you." She looked her girlfriend firmly in the eye. "And I would do it all again. Because you're worth it. Always."

Kagami felt tears come to her eyes, the first she had shed in years and the two girls kissed.