Author's note:

This story takes place when Marinette and Adrien are adults. I am a big fan of Miraculous Ladybug and the love square. I hope you enjoy this piece. Chapter 2 will be posted as soon as possible. I do not own these characters. Please leave reviews, I love hearing your opinions, and how I'm doing. I would also like to say that French college means middle school. I mentioned college in this chapter a few times.

I do not own these characters: THEY BELONG TO ZAG

Warning: This story does contain mature content.

Other Notes: Luka will be out of character but all will be explained in the story.

Adrien had just finished a long, eventful day at INSEAD Business School and was walking home. He had always believed the weather in November was dreary. The chance of rain was high and the clouds denied, all but a few, rays of the sun to shine. As the cold autumn breeze blew softly through his long blonde locks. Pulling the black hood of his cashmere field jacket, over his head; Adrien tightened his grip on the strap which laid across his left shoulder, that supported a leather satchel.

He was now 22 years old and shared a mansion with his best friend, Nino. The mansion was gifted to Adrien by his father, Gabriel Agreste. On the side, he modeled new designs, remained a straight-A student, and helped manage his father's company. The only thing he had discontinued, was being Chat Noir. With all the new Miraculous holders, he decided Ladybug didn't need him anymore.

This relieved Adrien of his heroic duties, allowing him the chance at a normal life. Plus, the repeated rejection from Ladybug was too much to handle. He lost track of all the times he confessed his love for her. Never once did she return the advances. The only identity Adrien knew was the wielder of the turtle miraculous (Nino, a.k.a Caprice).

As he continued walking toward the mansion, Adrien found himself deep in thought. He pondered over the homework assigned, along with various other duties. Due to his mental distraction, Adrien failed to see a young woman, (who was reading the latest fashion magazine), standing in his path.

The two individuals collided; causing the young person to lose her balance. Adrien tried to catch her but; it was too late. The woman fell to the ground; her magazine flying above her head, and her butt meeting the sidewalk. Adrien quickly felt apologetic as he raced over to the magazine, snatching it, and back to the woman's side.

"I am so sorry, miss! I didn't see you...Please, let me help you up," Shifting his focus toward the person, he was in awe of the beauty before him

The woman's face was that of an angel's, with her artic colored doll eyes, and rosy red lips. Her dark blue hair styled into a high bun, leaving loose strands sprawled along her face, and she wore black circular earrings. She was wearing a V-neck silk blouse with long sleeves, a navy-blue mid-thigh skirt, and her naked legs portrayed the toned components of a supermodel, with black suede heels to complete the ensemble. As she sat on the ground, rubbing her backside from the collision, Adrien leaned over, extending his hand.

The woman smiled, a chuckle escaped her as she grabbed hold of Adrien's hand, "No, I should be apologizing. I've always been clumsy." she answered, seeming embarrassed by the episode. After a long pause, he peered over to find their hands intertwined. He immediately dropped her hand and shifted his sight toward the woman's feet.

"I take full responsibility for the accident, and to repay you for the inconvenience, I would like to buy you a cup of coffee, miss?" Adrien asked, turning his attention, back to the beauty's kind face. The woman angled her head, displaying a puzzled expression. Adrien looked around, unsure if what he said had offended her.

"Adrien it's me, Marinette Dupain-Cheng...from college. Do you really not remember me?" Marinette asked the puzzled expression fading and revealed disappointment. Adrien felt a sudden sense of regret over not recognizing her. How could he not notice that the beauty before him was Marinette Dupain-Cheng?

Adrien smiled and apologized, "Marinette, I am so sorry. I should've known it was you," he raised, continuing the conversation, "How have you been? You look great," Adrien paused, realizing what he said. Adrien tried to rephrase himself, rambling; he used his hands to mimic his words, "I mean you ah-you always looked good! You're the same as before... I mean better... No... ugh, what I mean is..."

'Did he not realize it was me?' Marinette pondered, upset that she was so easy to overlook. Her eyes fell to the ground with a sunken posture. Adrien noticed this and felt an overwhelming shame come over him. In a rush to ease the situation, Adrien quickly wrapped his arms around Marinette; embracing her. Realizing the awkwardness of the embrace, he withdrew himself quickly, and used his hands to hide his face.

The sound of laughter caused him to peek between his fingers, to find Marinette in amusement. [Is she amused or doing an action in amusement? "Marinette laughing in amusement" "smiling in amusement" "Marinette looking at him in amusement" "to find Marinette amused by his embarrassment" Take your pick ]His heart trembled in her presence. Marinette displayed courage, spirit, and a laid-back demeanor. Opposite from their days in college.

"I understand Adrien, you look great too," Marinette declared, straightening out her skirt, and brushing off the dirt from the sidewalk, "You're plastered all over Paris. I guess your father still has your modeling?"

"Well, I do it from time to time, keeps me busy," Adrien responded, "What about you Marinette? I recall you wished to be a fashion designer." Using his fingers, he brushed away the raven hair from Marinette's face. He never noticed Marinette's tiny freckles along her cheeks or the modest dimples that emerged when she laughed.

Marinette started to blush as Adrien finger's grazed her skin. Tiptoeing away, she tried to collect herself but found it difficult. Straightening her form, Marinette replied, "Well I work at a small studio down the street called 'Madam Lise'. It's not fabulous, the pay isn't great, and Madam Lise is terrible, but it keeps me fed."

Adrien's smile faded away at the description of Marinette's workplace. Crossing his arms, he narrowed his brows and began thinking. He could feel Marinette staring him down, which made him feel a strange sensation. He couldn't understand or comprehend what was going on. All he knew was he was enjoying her presence. Snapping himself out of her control, Adrien turned his eyes back to hers, "I was just thinking Marinette, how would you like if I inquire about a position in my father's company? I'm sure after I mention your wonderful designs, he would give you a shot."

He followed the flow of her body as she placed her hand upon her heart; a look of disbelief played through her dazzling smile, "You...you would do that? Adrien, that would be wonderful...but I couldn't accept." she stated with a wave of her hands, her voice was ecstatic.

"Marinette, don't be modest, I will ask him later tonight. It's the least I could do for an old friend." Adrien replied.

Something he said must've struck a nerve because Marinette's body language shifted instantly. Her smile was faint and all she did was nod her head in agreement. He couldn't understand why she seemed so upset. All he stated was she was a friend; how was that offensive? Just as he was about to speak, Marinette started, holding out her hand in a friendly manner.

"I'm sorry, Adrien, but I really have to go. Madam Lise doesn't like me being late. It was nice seeing you again." she stated, her hand still extended toward him. He felt a sense of fear wash over him, as if he was about to lose something of value. Adrien declined her hand and instead tried to get her to stay longer.

"Do you have a new number? That way I can call or text you. We could even get some dinner tonight if your free?" He knew he sounded desperate, but he didn't care. Being here with Marinette created feelings within him, which Adrien thought had died off long ago. It was like Marinette was his clarity, but he didn't know why. Marinette stood still, as if she was afraid of him. His sanity was finally taking control, as he realized that he had become overbearing.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..." Adrien's said, his tone low, his posture sunk in sinking as he began to walk around her, "I enjoyed our conversation, Mari-"

Before he could finish, Marinette handed him her business card. Confused, he took the card cautiously, in case it was a mistake. Marinette smiled and seemed super cheerful about the whole scene. She was clearly a curious woman, Adrien thought to himself as he tucked the card into his wallet.

"I won't be able to have dinner with you tonight, I'm afraid. However, you still owe me coffee. How's tomorrow at 12 pm noon sound?" Marinette asked sweetly, using her right hand to point at him; her expression of, 'You better say yes, was written upon her face. Nodding to her demands, Adrien signaled for a goodbye hug, and Marinette accepted. At this moment, Adrien felt the passion from within him build, his heart raced uncontrollably, and there was peace. He could stay here holding her for eternity. However, fate has a funny way of bringing about old friends.

"Hey, dude get off my girlfriend!" I cried a man's voice from behind Adrien. He quickly released Marinette and turned swiftly to meet the approaching stranger.

The man approaching them had short, faded blue hair and a goatee to match. His appearance was one of a punk-rocker. The man wore an old raggedy Jagged Stone T-shirt and ripped jeans. A guitar was strapped to his back, and his pale skin was that of a vampire. As he came closer, Adrien could make out a few piercings, such as a nose ring in his left nostril. When he finally stood before them, Adrien instantly recalled who this was, his old bandmate, Luka Couffaine.

"Girlfriend..." Adrien uttered, turning his attention back to Marinette, who seemed dissatisfied with the revelation. He felt his heart breaking into pieces, like glass shattering. It made sense that she wouldn't be single...however, Adrien had just hoped she would be. Allowing his arm to fall from Marinette's frame, he had an overwhelming feeling of being numb. What was happening to him? He thought as he watched Marinette walk to Luka's side.

"Adrien, you remember Luka Couffaine? You guys used to play in the band together...Juluka's-"

"Yes, of course," Adrien cut Marinette off. He knew she was being kind. However, Adrien suddenly didn't feel like himself. Remembering who he was, Adrien fixed his composure. Portraying the young entrepreneur his father had trained him to be. He extended his hand toward Luka, still feeling a bit sluggish from the reveal.

Luka raised his eyebrows at Adrien, seeming surprised, "Adrien!? No freaking way! Man, how've you been?" Luka said, grabbing ahold of Adrien's hand with his own. Adrien's grasp was lame and feeble against Luka's. He tried to get control of his body but he just couldn't. He was taken back by a boastful grunt from Luka, "I guess you're not one for proper introductions. With all that studying you think your dad would take the time to teach you a bit of respect. Guess with an 'Agreste' name who has the time."

"Luka!" Marinette called out, she appeared to be horrified by his smug remark, "I'm sorry Adrien, he's not usually like this." Adrien felt a sense of rage begin to consume him. He tried to withdraw his hand, but Luka held on tighter, glaring into his eyes. Luka arched a brow and ignored Marinette.

"It's true, right? Everyone knows all your father ever cared about was his business. Trophy boy." Luka stated coldly.

At that moment, Adrien had lost all control. Seeming to have found his strength, he applied every once in his grip, using it to squeeze Luka's hand with all his might, refusing to stop as the man wailed in agony. He was pulled to his senses when he felt a snap from Luka's hand. He pulled away and saw Marinette turn to him, mortified. The rigid expression she showed made him feel less of a man.

Adrien never took his eyes off Marinette as she examined Luka's purple and swollen hand. It was obvious that Luka's hand was broken. Adrien felt torn. He felt terrible for losing himself in this way. However, he was elated at the sense of revenge for being talked down to.

"Dude! What the hell was that for!" Luka yelled, "I need to go to the hospital now you nut job!"

"Let's go, Luka, I'll just call off work and take you in," Marinette said, pulling out her phone.

Adrien couldn't let Marinette pay for his doings. He placed his hand over her phone and set his emerald eyes on the punk rocker, "I didn't realize the efficiency of my strength. I guess as an 'Agreste' I am incapable of perceiving such things." Adrien teased, watching as Luka glared into him with spiteful eyes, but Adrien didn't care.

Changing his gaze back to Marinette, Adrien smiled, calming his voice. "I'll take him Marinette. You should get to work; I promise everything will be ok." Adrien walked over and slapped Luka on the back, "Right dude?"

Marinette curiously watched the two men walk down the sidewalk, where the nearest clinic stood. Tiki flew out from her purse, examining Marinette, "Wow I wonder what got into Adrien?" She asked, with a devilish grin.

"No idea Tiki, I just hope Lukas' hand is all right. He has an audition along with his father, Jagged, in the morning. It will devastate him if he can't perform." Marinette quickly rushed the little kwami back into her purse and made her way down the street to Madam Lise's Studio.

Adrien sat in the waiting room, reading a gossip magazine to pass the time. He was growing bored as the minutes passed by. Luka had been in the physician's room for what seemed like ages. Placing the magazine down, he rubbed his face and got comfortable in the leather seat. He tried to think of anything other than Marinette. However, he was finding it to be a challenge. Such strange power she had held over him, just like the power another had held over him...so long ago. The slamming of the physician's door snapped him from his daydreaming. He stood to his feet and saw Luka fuming; his hand was placed in a red cast, and the nurse was chasing after him.

Luka stopped in front of Adrien, shoving his good finger into Adrien's chest, "This is all your fault, your rich prick," Lukas' eyes were like daggers, his voice cold. Adrien could see the displeasure in his body language. A sense of loathing could be felt as Luka pressed harder into Adrien's chest with his finger, "Because of your stunt, I can't perform with dad tomorrow...that was my chance to prove myself!"

Before Adrien could speak, the nurse, interjected; in her hands were the discharge papers, "Please, Mr. Couffaine, I need to go over the discharge papers and instructions." She spoke. The woman was clearly in her mid-thirties and seemed exhausted. Her voice was calm and her demeanor fair. Luka turned around to meet her with the same level of hatred he displayed to Adrien. Using his good hand, he snatched the papers from her and placed them in his teeth. Using his good hand he ripped them in half, and spit them on the floor.

The nurse gawked; she immediately took to the ground to scoop up the papers. Adrien assisted her and listened as the main door buzzed, with Luka storming out of the building. The nurse handed the papers to Adrien and thanked him for his help, "You'll need to make sure your friend keeps the cast on for at least 6-weeks. He has to also keep the follow-up appointments with his regular provider."

"Oh, he's not my friend...an old acquaintance," Adrien stated, fixing the mess of papers in his hand, "I'll make sure he understands, I'm really sorry for the episode." with that Adrien headed out of the building after Luka.

By the time he caught up with him, Luka was standing by the crosswalk, waiting to cross the street. His eyes were fixated on his cast and he seemed as if all his dreams were over. A small part of Adrien was enjoying the anguish, but his better half wanted to make things right. Sucking up his pride, Adrien tried handing the torn papers to Luka, who snubbed them away.

"Get away from me, Agreste. You've done enough." Luka spat moving his gaze ahead, waiting for the walk symbol.

"Look, I'm sorry Luka. I didn't mean for this to happen," Adrien started, folding the papers into his satchel, "I would never hurt anyone. I don't know what came over me."

"That's a lie, you know why," Luka turned to find Adrien staring at him with interest, "Stay away from Marinette. I mean it, Agreste, or else the next time we meet won't be so civil."

Adrien couldn't help but laugh out of amusement, "You call the conversation from earlier civil? I'll remember that for next time." He ignored the part concerning Marinette. It had nothing to do with her; he was fumed at Luka's hatefulness.

I'm a grown man...and Marinette is just an old friend. If I want to see her on a friend basis I will, Adrien thought to himself as he waited for the crosswalk to turn, 'I mean... What's the worst that can happen?'

"The conversation from earlier was abrupt but I meant every word. I have my reasons for being jealous. I also have my right to protect what's mine," Luka declared.

"Marinette is not an object, Luka. You don't own her," Adrien found the words just slip from his lips. He couldn't explain the feelings he was having, nor did he want to venture them further. He watched as the crosswalk light turned and the two of them continued their conversation.

"Let's just agree to disagree. I don't even want to see your face...I have to go tell my bandmates that my chance to earn my dad's blessing, is ruined. All because Mr. Playboy over here couldn't control himself," Luka spat as they reached the other end of the crosswalk, "Thanks for nothing Agreste, really glad to see you again. Maybe if you had been more involved in our lives we wouldn't be in this mess. Goodbye."

Adrien stood still as he watched Luka pull out his phone and continued walking towards the downtown plaza. The blonde-haired man stood alone, contemplated the conversation. Luka had good points. Which is why it was understandable for Luka to be angry. After graduation, Adrien had cut ties with everyone but Nino. He never wanted to, but his father insisted he needed to mature. It was his birthright to take over the family business; according to Gabriel, he couldn't have things tying him down. Realizing the wrong he had committed; Adrien ran after Luka...he needed to make amends for what he had done.

When Adrien reached the public square, he witnessed crowds of people screaming and running in opposite directions. He was being pushed and shoved in every direction as people were trying to escape. A woman grabbed hold of his arm and yelled, "There's an Akuma! You have to run!" she shouted before fleeing, leaving Adrien alone in the square.

He knew what had to be done as he took cover behind the corner of a building. Adrien threw out his right hand that bore a silver ring. This action caused a tiny floating creature, in the form of a black cat, to appear before him. The animal like being stretched it's body and released a yawn. When the creature was relaxed, it's large emerald cat eyes showed signs of amusement.

"Please tell me you summoned me because it's time for my snack," The creature said flying around Adrien's body searching for food.

"Sorry Plagg, I messed up. I'm going to need Chat Noir to come out of retirement." Adrien stated proudly. However, the little kwami was less than thrilled about the idea.

"No…no, no, no. I have enjoyed my retirement. Ladybug has everything under control. Let's just head home. You remember what that is right? The fancy mansion, servants that grant my…I mean…your every wish, and a variety of cheese. Adrien…think of the cheese!" Plagg exclaimed in the air; begging on his hands and knees.

Ignoring his kwami's request Adrien immediately called out, "Plagg, claws out!" Instantly, Plagg's body was sucked into Adrien's silver ring, causing it to transform him into Chat Noir. Using his metal staff to soar after the akumatized victim.

Chat saw the villain who resembled an akumatized Rocker. With long blue dreads, wielding a massive guitar, and dark makeup. Each time the scoundrel strummed the guitar strings, a swarm of razor blades broke from it, injuring anyone in its pathway.

He took some extra time to examine the creature before concluding who the victim was. As he was distracted, Chat felt a vibration from behind him as something or someone landed on the rooftop. He didn't have to whirl around to see who the individual was. He already knew by the way she entered the scene.

"It's been a while kitty." the velvet sound caused Chat Noir to stir with past emotions. How he had missed her voice over the years. Turning to meet her presence, Chat Noir found Ladybug standing behind him with her hands against her hips. Her bright red lips were pulled into an elated grin, while her baby blues sparkled behind her mask.

"My lady, I've missed your company. Love to sit and 'chat' about life...but I think we have a situation." Chat said, acknowledging the villainous guitarist.

Ladybug inspected the situation, recognizing the guitar pick in the victim's hand, "Luka?" She said underneath her breath.

"That's what I was thinking too... hold on, how do you know him?" Chat asked, his arms crossed over his chest, staring at her, puzzled. Ignoring his question, Ladybug took out her Yo-Yo and swung toward the villain. Scowling Chat muttered under his breath, "This...this is the reason I retired." He never was a fan of her recklessness, but he couldn't help but be attracted to it. He then followed her and landed together in a defensive stance against the villain in front of them.

"Luka please, I'm sure whatever happened to you was an accident! This will solve nothing!" She cried to him. Chat glanced over to see that Ladybug seemed remorseful. 'Why was she so concerned over Luka? and how the hell did she know him?', Chat thought to himself, never taking his cat eyes off her.

The akumatized man laughed at her pleas, "Stupid bug! I'm not Luka anymore. Name's, Guitar King, and I won't stop. Not until I punish Adrien Agreste for what he did. When I'm through with him, no one in Paris will want him as a model, ever again. I will have vengeance!" Gathering up his guitar pick, Guitar King strummed against the strings, releasing razor blades at the two heroes. Thinking quickly, Ladybug and Chat used their weapons to defend against the attack.

The old Chat would've made some hilarious puns to ease the tension of the situation. Though in this circumstance, he couldn't think of any. Plus, he wanted to show how he had matured over the last couple of years. With a swift bow to Ladybug, Chat gave her a slight wink. "After you, m'lady, use that lucky charm of yours."

He watched her salute him in agreement and threw her Yo-Yo in the air, "Lucky Charm!" A bright red flash filled the sky as an object fell from above. Chat was hoping it would be something big! A huge sword or like a shield… it was a tube of glue.

Chat rolled his eyes and prepared himself for battle. "You know Ladybug, every time you use your charm of yours, I always feel like you really have a sense of humor."

"I have a sense of humor, you're just never around to hear my new jokes, " Ladybug teased, looking around for objects that connected to the charm in her hands. Once she located the items she needed, she grinned at Chat. He returned her positivity with playfulness.

"I guess I'm 'Sticking' with you on this one, my lady." Chat chuckled at his own pun, pretending to wipe away a tear from his eye. He tried to be as mature as possible, but he couldn't resist temptation.

"Hilarious, kitty, on my count get ready to break the guitar pick!" Ladybug said as they sprang into action. Ladybug dodged the razor blades attack and jumped above Guitar King's head. While she was in mid-air, Chat watched as she dropped the glue over the Villain's body and landed perfectly behind Guitar King. As the villain tried to remove the glue, he turned to Ladybug in anger, and laid his hands on the guitar, ready to play.

"You insolent Bug!" Guitar King yelled, using his other hand to grab hold of Ladybug's throat, lifting her off the ground, "I'll make you pay for that!"

Chat jumped from the wall of the building and drop-kicked Guitar King onto the ground, "Hands off my lady!" Chat exclaimed, guarding Ladybug with his body.

Ladybug whispered in Chat's ear, "The glue is set, ready your cataclysm." He listened to her like an obedient child. His hand began to swarm with black smoke as animal eyes locked onto his desired target. Watching the villain grab hold of the pick and guitar, Chat lowered himself, as if he were ready to pounce on his prey.

Guitar King went to strum his strings but was devastated. The strings, along with his hands were glued in place. Chat Noir then leaped into action; he moved with haste and cat-like agility. Barely grazing the Guitar, the cataclysm spread, destroying the Guitar and its pick. Chat Noir stood there watching as a black gob of smoke consumed Guitar King. When the smoke cleared, Luka stood as if asleep, and began to fall to the ground. Chat quickly grabbed hold of him, turning his attention to Ladybug as she captured the Corrupted Akuma with her Yo-Yo. Once the Akuma was cleansed, she waved it farewell and threw her lucky charm into the air yelling, "Miraculous Ladybug!"

A swarm of magical mist fluttered through the air, fixing all the damage caused by Guitar King. As the mist landed on Luka, he lifted his eyes to see him in the arms of Chat Noir. "What happened?" Luka asked, moving away from Chat, and laid his eyes on Ladybug. She did her normal routine, stating what had happened, telling the person everything was fine, and handing them a protection amulet. Which sometimes worked – if they remembered to hold onto it.

Ladybug grabbed hold of Luka's arm and cast it over her shoulders. Quickly she turned to Chat Noir and worded, thank you. With a quick bow, Chat Noir used his rod and took to the rooftops. Ensuring he was well hidden, Chat watched as Ladybug was greeted by the citizens of Paris. Luka had given her a hug and took off down the way, leaving her to deal with the press. Waving goodbye to the people, Ladybug cast her Yo-Yo and swung through the air into the distance.

Deep down he missed being with her, but Chat had made the choice to leave the team, and he needed to follow his judgment. Perching himself upon the edge of the rooftop, Chat felt a grin tug at the corner of his lips. "Well done...My Lady." He whispered to himself, watching the sunset over Paris.

Later that night, after the epic battle, Adrien had followed Luka all the way to Madam Lise's studio. Before Luka could enter the building, Adrien called after him, "Luka! Wait up!" Luka turned around to see Adrien Agreste running toward him. When he stopped running, leaned over placing the palms on his knees, his body shaking from exhaustion.

"I... I chased you for like 3 blocks or more," Adrien stated as he gasped for air.

"Look Adrien about earlier," Luka said, his voice quiet. Adrien lifted himself up and listened to Luka as he spoke, "I'm sorry, I overreacted, and I almost hurt a lot of people...I'm not as 'Zen' as I used to be. I guess growing up takes the peace out of you."

Luka looked overcast, guilt washing over him, "I should've never said those things to you...I know how your life's been."

Adrien sighed and shook off the apology, "No worries, we both screwed up today...but good news. I was able to call your fathers agent, Penny. I explained what happened and she was really understanding about it. She was able to work your father's schedule around so when your healed, you'll have your chance to perform with him. I feel horrible for fracturing your hand, I'm sorry. I hope this makes up for it."

"No way? Man, I can't thank you enough!" Luka exclaimed, wrapping Adrien in a bro hug. Adrien was taken back by the affection Luka was showing him. Earlier that day, the two had an all-out showdown. Now, they're making up in the streets. Luka wasn't such a bad guy; however, Adrien still didn't like him. Ignoring his feelings, Adrien patted Luka on the back and let him enter the studio. Adrien peeked in through a glass window; the light from the studio lit the sidewalk.

From within, he saw Marinette standing by her desk. She looked exhausted and extremely overworked. The shop itself looked decent, very modern, and elegant. However, Marinette outshined the environment. He gazed over her works in the corner, such talent, and artistic work. As Adrien continued staring, Plagg, the cat kwami, appeared from his jacket. Observing his master as Marinette and Luka shared a sweet embrace.

Plagg cleared his throat and began to speak, "You know they invented these things called cameras, why don't you take a picture, it'll last longer." The little kwami stuck his finger down his throat, mimicking being sick, "Love, it's a really gross feeling."

Adrien knew the kwami didn't care for the emotions of humans; love was his least favorite. Though at times, Adrien believed Plagg cared for him as a friend. He continued watching the two of them in the studio. His heart skipped as Marinette brushed the strands of hair behind her ear, with a toothy grin, as she kept her focus on Luka.

"No... you're the wrong Plagg, I don't love Marinette," Adrien stated, finally peeling his eyes from the window and toward the flying being, "I just never realized how much I missed her until today."

Plagg rolled his eyes, "Kid, if I was were you, I wouldn't let her go again. Heck, if I was were you, I would've beaten the guy down... but I don't get involved in human relationships. I love Camembert too much." Plagg said, pulling out his cheese and devouring it.

"You know I gave up on love a long time ago, Plagg," Adrien declared as he began walking around the corner of the building, "You know that, plus I don't get involved in relationships."

"Yeah, I know...because of Ladybug you haven't had a girlfriend. Thanks to her you're going to be a virgin till the day you die." Adrien glared at Plagg, causing the kwami to back off. "All I'm saying is maybe you should get to know Marinette. You might be surprised at what you find," Plagg said flying back into Adrien's jacket.

Adrien knew Plagg was right. His past love for Ladybug created many issues in a relationship. All these years, he had searched for Cinderella. The only problem was, Cinderella didn't want to be found. She would rather hide behind her mask than surrender to his love for her. The feelings he had for Marinette seemed real. Could he really be falling for her? Was he willing to ruin her life to please himself? Adrien shook the mere thought from his mind. However, the temptation for what could be was too strong to resist.

It was a little after 9 pm when Marinette locked the doors of the design studio. She was normally the last one to leave. According to Madam Lise, since she arrived late, she needed to stay late. Luka had offered to walk Marinette to her apartment, but she shot him down. She knew he needed rest after the disaster earlier. Plus, 'Ladybug' could handle the dangers of the night.

She walked down the vacant streets, enjoying the cool breeze as it swept over her skin. Though Marinette was alone, she couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. Preserving her calm, she peeked over her shoulder. The street lights were dim; it was enough to see a few feet away. Scanning her surroundings, she decided to call out, "Is someone there?"

Marinette waited for an answer, but no one responded. After a few minutes passed, she shrugged off the feeling and continued. As she neared her apartment, a shadow appear from above her. Quickly spinning around, she examined everything, but she was alone. Rubbing her eyes, Marinette whispered to herself, "I think I overdid myself today. I need some tea to calm my nerves." Using her electronic key, Marinette entered the complex. Unaware of a pair of green eyes tracking her from the rooftop.