I should state, that characters and their attitudes will NOT BE exactly like the show. Names and physical appearances are the only guarantees.
Xoxoxoxoxoxooxox
Alya had a list, apparently.
Summer classes had finished, and the regular semester had started up, which made it a bit easier to find the people on aforementioned list.
But Marinette was skeptical. This seemed like an odd way to find your friend a girlfriend. How did you know what they were like? She couldn't tell that from a paper, or social media.
"Girl, I've got that covered! I ran into most of them at the coffee shop on campus."
"There's a coffee shop on campus?!" Marinette was surprised.
Really, she shouldn't be. But despite being here 3 years, she hadn't explored. She had gone to her classes, and then left- it generally being pretty damn late by that point.
Adrien probably did though. He had to have met his girlfriends somewhere, after all! And if they were all from his classes, then it would make it super awkward - and he hadn't said anything about that, so, odds were, he met them elsewhere.
"What, have you been living under a rock?!" Mari shrugged sheepishly, before Alya dragged her off - most likely to the cafe.
Marinette glanced at her phone quickly. 45 minutes left of her lunch hour. She had time.
It wasn't exactly how she pictured it would be though. She had it in her head it would look something like the bakery, but it was far from it!
You ordered at the counter at the back of the shop - just coffee, dozens and dozens of different coffee- and the rest of the place was barcounter height tables. There were very few stools around. It seemed like most everyone was simply leaning on a counter or table.
Leaning over, she whispered to Alya, "Where are all the chairs?"
"Nobody sticks around, girl. They get their coffee, maybe visit for a small time with someone else, or change their phone for a bit at one of the many outlets. Then they all scram. Off to classes and whatnot."
She was dragged to the back counter, where Alya order 2 seemingly over complicated drinks, and then was pulled off to the side to wait.
She only had a moment to think of how ridiculously high the prices were, before there was a tap on her shoulder.
Turning, she was met with a smiling red head with a million freckles dotting her face.
"Marinette, right?!" the newcomer asked.
"Whose asking?" Alya asked, immediately suspicious. The smile seemed like she was friendly, but it was almost never a good thing when someone you didn't know knew you!
"Ondine!" her smile never wavered. "I have heard ALOT about you! Kim never shuts up about you! We're on the swim team together. Since we were like, 12."
"Oh!" Marinette smiled then. "Yes, I'm Marinette. It's great to meet you!"
Looking more closely at Ondine, Marinette couldn't help but notice how absolutely beautiful she was! With her gorgeously long red hair braided over one shoulder, and naturally glowing skin. And she was tall - oh so tall!! - the top of Marinette's head was barely level with her nose.
Mari had always been envious of everyone taller than her- she definately got her shortness from her mother!
"Great to meet you too! I've been telling Kim that he should stick around with you after competitions, or that we should do something sometime, but he says your always busy. It's cute when he gets all defensive and insists he's not making that up!" even her laugh was adorable, ran through the shorter girl as Ondine laughed.
"Oh, he's not exaggerating." she needed to clear that up quickly! "I only ever have Sunday off, really. Our summer consisted of quick, 15 minute dates in between my summer courses." she explained.
"Oh!" her cheeks colored at that. "Oops. Now I'll have to apologize. He said you were super smart, he just didn't mention how totally dedicated you must be to getting your degree!"
"It's actually her second degree," Alya piped up, while handing Marinette her coffee cup. How had she missed it being ready?!
Probably too busy envying the tall redhead that seemed more suited for Kim than herself.
"Wow! Arent you only like, 20? Super smart was definately an understatement on Kim's part!"
"I'll be 20 in a few months, yeah." she confirmed.
"Right, right, younger than Kim, I forgot. He'll be 20 next month."
Mari smiled nervously.
Why did she feel so inadequate next to this woman?! Because there was no calling her a girl! She was tall and lithe and beautiful. And she knew she was being unreasonable - she wasn't usually so critical of herself - she just couldn't help it!
"Hey M! I didn't even know you knew the cafe existed here!" was called out in welcome, from the very familiar voice of her best friend.
Turning, she sent him a huge smile in gratitude.
"Adrien!" she sighed in relief.
"Make sure you get a charge card from Natalie, if your going to keep stopping in here." he offered the information helpfully.
"Alya paid this time. I guess I'll treat her to the next round," she glanced at her brunette friend as she said that - but on the way, faltered over Ondine's awed expression.
Following her gaze led her straight to Adrien. Well now, what have we got here?!
Completely forgetting about her earlier insecurities, her brain immediately flooded with thoughts of Adrien and Ondine... Together. Maybe?
Blue eyes flashed to brown, and both girls shared the same knowing smile.
And who wouldn't?! Adrien packed quite a punch in his orange hightops, faded jeans, black tshirt with 3 stripes across the top, and his blonde locks styled to one side. She could definately see the appeal- if he wasnt practically a brother to her.
"Sorry, didn't mean to be rude," Mari spoke up. "This is my best friend Adrien! Adrien, this is Ondine! She's on the swim team with Kim."
Irritation passed fleetingly through the blondes eyes - and she wondered at it- but then it was gone, and she questioned its existance at all.
He turned his signature model smile at the redhead.
"It's a pleasure to meet you!"
"Hey," Ondine responded on a contended sigh.
Did his voice seem overly high? His smile a little too sugary sweet?
Odd.
Pushing that aside though, Mari spoke up again. "Ondine was just saying how we should all do something!"
"Absolutely!" Alya joined in. "I'll bring Nino, and it'll be fun!"
Genuine affection filled Adrien's eyes then- instead of the well groomed one from a moment ago. "That'd be great! You guys can set it up, and just let me know! M, you know my schedule as well as yours!"
Trying not to grin madly at her success, Marinette agreed quickly. "Absolutely!"
Then she turned to the rest of their unlikely group. "Sadly, i have class in 10 minutes, so I must go!"
Before she could turn around to do just that, Ondine stopped her quickly, and passed Mari her cell.
"Pop your number in there! Men can never be trusted to recount information accurately!" the redhead laughed good naturedly.
Taking the phone, she quickly typed in her name and number, before hitting save and passing it back.
Then, with a smile and a wave, she took off with her coffee before she ended up being late.
XOXOXOXXOXOXOXO
Walking home that evening, Marinette saw a familiar built, blonde tufted man, leaning against the side of her building. It was like déjà vu, back to when she first realized who he was, when Kim came to find her.
Unlike last time, Marinette grinned in anticipation, rather than groaned in mortifying embarrassment.
Seeing her approach, he pushed away from the wall and jogged over to close the distance between them.
"Oh my God, sweets, I am so sorry! Don't believe anything Ondine says - unless it was good, then yeah, thats all true." he nervously chuckled.
Her brain had stalled a long time ago though.
"Sweets?"
Color bloomed on his cheeks. "Shit," he muttered so low she almost didn't hear.
"Um, it's uh - yeah, just something I called you- in my head- when we were kids... Because you lived in a bakery... and you always smelt sweet..."
At her continued silence, he continued to babble, "It sounded good in my head, ok? I never intended to ever say it out loud! God, this is embarrassing," he finished, face-palming. "just forget i said anything."
AWWWW...
"Why would I want to forget that my super sweet boyfriend thinks I'm sweet- enough to give me a nickname?!" she gushed.
"No joke Marinette, don't make fun of me!" he whined, without moving his hand off his face.
Reaching up, she gently took his hand from his face, and entwined their fingers. "I'm not." she assured him. "I think it's adorable- that your adorable."
"Men are not adorable, M," he argued, as he pulled her closer to him by their joined hands. "Or at least, don't tell that to anyone else."
Reaching up on tiptoes, she gave him a kiss on the lips, before pulling him inside the building.
"Your secrets safe with me," she teased, as she tugged him into the elevator with her. "For a price."
"Extortion, huh?!" brown eyes gleamed with good humour. "I guess I have no choice but to pay up."
As soon as the doors slid closed, he had her up against the wall as his mouth ravaged hers.
She scraped her teeth against his bottom lip, and he groaned harshly into her mouth, before grabbing her ass and sliding her up the wall. She had no choice but to wrap her legs around his waist - not that she would even dream of objecting.
Their tongues tangled together - Mari ground her hips against his growing erection- and delighted in his answering moan.
"This elevator ride isn't long enough for that, sweets," he gasped against her lips.
"Better hope you make it to my door quickly then," she snickered evily, as she did it again.
The sudden shudder and ding of the elevator jolted them back to reality. Kim just strolled down the hallway, Marinette still wrapped around his waist like a vine.
Quickly typing in her code at the door, they tumbled inside. Kim only made it as far as the island, before depositing her on top and pulling off her bright pink halter top. His movements stalled as her breasts were exposed - she hadn't opted for a bra again, and was small enough to get away with it.
Leaning back so she was prone on the countertop, Mari moaned as he took her budding nipple into his mouth.
It was like Marinette had gone weeks without his mouth on her- rather than the 4 days it had been- but she felt heat coursing through her everywhere he touched.
Which is why she was slightly surprised when he pushed her capris past her knees - when had she lifted her ass to get them down?! - and they fell to the floor.
When Kim's warm, wet tongue licked a trail down her belly to between her legs, she stopped thinking - or caring- she just enjoyed what he was doing to her.
Kim forgot all about the damage control he was sure he'd have to do after her conversation with Ondine.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Marinette stood next to Kim and Ondine at the entrance to the zoo, while they waited for the rest of their friends to arrive.
She had asked Adrien if he wanted to catch the train with them, but he had declined - his father needed him to do a quick shoot or something. Which she had thought was odd. Gabriel didn't have any ads coming out, or new lines scheduled to be released.
She should know, as recently, she started being added to all email Conversations within Gabriel - Natalie said it would help some of the business stuff make sense in her coming courses.
It hadn't escaped her notice that this option hadn't been offered to Adrien when he had been going through the same classes. But Mari put that down to Adrien being forced to take his business degree, rather than it being what she really wanted to do. She was secretly glad Gabriel had allowed his son to get his physics degree as well - though lately, Adrien had seemed... Not really interested in it - not like he used to be, anyway.
Messaging Alya right before they left, had revealed that Adrien was with Nino - thank God! - and they would arrive together, while Alya headed over after work.
Mari hadnt said anything about Adrien's supposed photo shoot. It was possible Adrien didn't want her to think he was replacing her as a friend.
They were definately in new territory lately!
Her first time with a boyfriend. Both of their first time with more friends than just each other.
She kind of missed when it was just the 2 of them. Perhaps she'd have to ask him about a Sunday- just for them- soon.
She was still immensely happy that he was making more friends!
"Kim! Mari!" was suddenly hollered from behind them.
All 3 turned as one to see Nino and Adrien walking their way. Nino had lifted his arm high to wave, while Adrien had his hands shoved deep in his Jean pockets.
"Alya should be here any minute," Nino helpfully informed them.
"Adrien, you remember Ondine?" Mari directed the question at her friend, as he had yet to look up at anyone.
He looked up then. First to shoot a smile at Ondine, with a murmured hello. Then to Marinette - though his eyes immediately tracked down to her hand holding Kim's.
Tilting her head, she frowned at him when his eyes came back to her face. One blue brow rose, silently asking him what was wrong. He simply shrugged, and gave an almost imperceptible shake of his head.
But he pulled his hands out of his pockets and smiled more convincingly.
Definately need to schedule that friend time.
"Hey Adrien," she spoke up, "Are you free Monday night? To come over?"
She was rewarded by a surprised gasp, then an extremely enthusiastic "Yeah, for sure!"
True to Nino's word, Alya showed up just a couple minutes later, and they all made their way inside.
"I definately want to see the panther!" Kim exclaimed excitedly. "Sweets, wanna come see which one of us has the bigger guns?!" he asked with a wink.
Snorting, Marinette rolled her eyes playfully. "I'm pretty sure the panthers got you beat, but sure, I'll humor you."
"I want to see the monkeys!" Ondine stated.
Looking over at Adrien shyly, the redhead asked nervously, "Would you like to come with me Adrien?"
His deer in the headlights look almost made Mari crack up. The blonde glanced her way, as if to say 'help me', but she just shrugged.
It was totally his call!
Noticing Ondine wilting a little at the lack of a response, Mari darted her eyes from Adrien to Ondine, then back again.
Come on Adrien, it wasn't rocket science! Just say yes!
Her best friend sighed in resignation. "I'd love to Ondine."
Beaming happily, she reached for his arm and started to pull him away before Nino and Alya had even decided on their route- which made both women grin.
"I'm totally checking out the lions. Meet you guys back here in a bit!" and then they too, took off on their own.
"Do you think it'll go well?" Mari asked her boyfriend. "Adrien and Ondine," she clarified at his quizzical expression.
"Oh, you'll be lucky to get Adrien back in one piece! Ondine might devour him if he's not careful!"
They shared a laugh, as they made their way to the panther cage.
"This is nice," Kim commented, as he let go of her hand and slung it across her shoulders, pulling her close to him.
She hummed in agreement, as she gazed around at all the other animals on their way to their destination.
"I always imagined I'd take you on a date here."
Turning to him, Mari smiled up at him.
"Is that so? Younger Kim was sure a romantic."
"Only with you." he teased back, to which she snorted.
"As if, Kim. You've had sex before. You obviously had to romance SOMEONE to get there!"
"Not really. You'd be surprised how many girls just fall all over themselves for this handsome face!"
Laughing, she poked his side.
He cried out in mock pain. "Oh how you wound me, sweets!"
"You know, you have this super great nickname for me, I feel kind of left out. I'll have to think up one for you." she chewed on her lip in thought.
"Hey now, how bout nibbling on my lip like that?!"
She grinned wickedly up at him. "Maybe when I find that name, I'll reward you with nibbles."
"Oh, well then, in that case! Handsome. Sexy. Babe. Baby? Your lordship."
She snorted out a laugh, "Your lordship?! Are we in the Victorian era?! Jeez, Kim, I want unique!"
"Unique is overrated," He responded.
"Yet you have one for me."
"Mmm, thats because you are one of a kind!"
"Dork."
They came upon the panther cage, and had fun chatting with other people around, as well as Alya's dad- who apparently ran the freaking zoo! - before deciding to see how Adrien and Ondine were doing at the monkeys.
Only, they weren't there anymore.
"Ondine probably pulled him into some rest room, or behind a park bench," Kim joked.
Mari laughed, taking this as a good sign that Adrien was having fun as well.
"Hey, look at that monkey swingin by its tail?!" Kim suddenly exclaimed.
Excitedly, he watched to see what else it would do, as said monkey lowered itself above another, unsuspecting, monkey eating Lord knew what - people weren't supposed to feed the animals, but we all know how many people actually follow THAT rule!
As they watched, the dangling monkey tapped the unsuspecting monkey on one shoulder, then leaned over to their other side when it looked over. Seeing nothing, the monkey went back to it's treat, only for the upside down monkey to tap on their shoulder again. But this time, as they looked over, the sneaky monkey stole what the other had had, quickly ascending the tree to flee as they enjoyed their I'll gotten spoils!
Kim howled in laughter, and Marinette laughed loudly.
"Well, that's one way to go about it!" Kim joked between his laughter.
"Kind of reminds me how you and Alix used to be as kids!" Marinette recalled fondly.
"I'd definately have been the sneaky one!"
"Please Kim, don't make me laugh! Alix ALWAYS outsmarted you!"
"No way!" he cried indignantly. "She always used to wait until you came within view and distracted me by saying you were looking at me!"
Mari smirked. "Your not helping to convince me I'm wrong, monkey."
Initially, she had said it as a joke - a good natured dig about how Alix always used to outmanuever him- but the more she thought on it, the more she liked it!
He seemed to have a similar thought.
"While I think I am far more handsome than a monkey, it could grow on me," be smirked.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO
2 hours later, they had yet to see any of their friends again!
"Well what the hey," Mari had her arms on her hips, and was currently glaring all around her. "We weren't supposed to have 3 seperate dates today! It was supposed to be a big fun one, with maybe little pockets of alone time!" she muttered- to noone in particular, but Kim happened to be right next to her.
"Are you really all that surprised, sweets? Alya can be very single minded when she wants to be! If she decided Adrien needed alone time with Ondine, she'd make herself scarce forever!" was his explanation.
Sighing- because she couldnt really refute that- "But we don't!" she gestured between the two of them. "We've been together for months!"
Grinning, Kim pulled his agitated girlfriend into the circle of his arms. "And what an amazing few months it's been," he murmured, leaning his face close down to hers. "The only thing that would make it better was if I never had to leave you at the end of the day."
The now blushing woman brushed her lips sofly against her boyfriends. "I didn't realize my monkey was such a sap."
"Only for you." he retorted.
"Ew, get a room!" was called loudly from behind them.
Recognizing Nino's voice, Mari grinned up at Kim, before turning around, still in the circle of her boyfriends arms.
"I have one, thanks. It's nice."
Alya snorted, "Understatement. Compared to mine, yours is the taj mahal!"
"It's the walk in closet," Mari mock whispered to Kim, "She's super jealous."
"Hells yeah I am!" came Alya's whine, "your closet is more the size of my bedroom!"
"Kim!" was hollered from a bit to their left, making everyone turn to see Ondine waving at them, her and Adrien's arms linked.
And he was SMILING!
Mari nudged Kim in the ribs with her elbow, and frantically swatting at his arm, "Do you see that?!" she whispered excitedly.
"I sure do." he murmured in her ear, sounding just as pleased as she felt.
The 6 of them shared an earlyish supper at a restaurant around the corner from the entrance to the zoo, and Marinette couldn't keep the shit eating grin off her face everytime she saw how cozy the blonde and the redhead were.
They sat next to each other, and Ondine would lean over and whisper something into his ear that would make him smile. Or Adrien would show her something on his phone that would make her laugh. The two had ordered 2 different dishes, and shared with each other. It didn't look intentional - Ondine has told Adrien his smelt delicious, and he had offered her a taste. Which prompted Ondine to offer him a taste of hers - to be fair- which led to them sharing even more than just a bite.
Alya caught Marinettes eye when she noticed, and shared a not so secret smile with her.
But then something went terribly wrong.
Or had been all day? Mari wasn't sure.
But as they were all standing outside the restaurant, about to go their seperate ways, Ondine had thrown her arms around Adrien's neck, and said-loud enough for all to hear- "Your going to make your mystery girl a fantastic boyfriend-whoever she is. Don't give up! I'll be rooting for you."
What the hell?!
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Monday came, and Marinette did something she had never done before - she left her last class of the day half way through.
But she had asked Adrien over, and she had a plan!
She was trying to show him that she still very much cared for his friendship - and she didn't want to do that by half assing it. So, she had asked her professor at the start what she would need to make up for it, and half way through booked it out of there and to the bakery as fast as she could.
Her papa met her at the counter with her request - Adrien's favorite spinach and salmon pie, half a dozen chocolate croissants, and a dozen macarons.
"Make sure you tell Adrien we say hello! He'll have to stop by again, it's been weeks since he popped in!"
Huh. Adrien was visiting her families bakery without her?! Well, it wasn't like he had to confer with her, but it was her parents! And what else was weird was, this was just one more thing he did in a growing list of things that he wasn't telling her.
And normally it wouldn't matter, but this was the boy who had previously over shared about his bathroom schedule! Or lack, as had happened on occasion. She had been living at the mansion when they both stumbled across porn together, and discussed the pros and cons of masturbating - and then talked technique!
So, she wanted to know what the hell was happening to her best friend?!
Half an hour before she was would usually be home, Mari was setting her snacks in Tupperware containers and waiting impatiently.
She hadn't anticipated this part. Now that she was home so early, she didn't want to WAIT!
Tapping her foot frantically on the floor, Marinette glanced around her apartment, looking for something to clean, or dishes to wash - nothing was out of place.
Would it be such a big deal if she went up the fire escape, instead of him coming down?! Normally, Adrien came down. She could count on both hands the number of times she had gone to his apartment!
Did that make her a bad friend?!
Was Adrien making most of the effort, and she was the self-centered, bitchy friend who took pity on Adrien and spent time with him because he showed up?! She hadn't ever intended it to be that way! Or make him feel that way.
Did he feel that way?!
She'd have to make sure he knew how much she loved him, really!
As a friend, of course. Or like family.
Would it be weird if she went up?! He didn't have a class this late in the evening - like she did- so he should be home. Was he just waiting for her to be home?!
Gah!!
Running her hands frustratedly through her hair - jeez, had it really grown so long?! Her whole neck was covered now - and groaned.
Why was friendship so hard?!
Why did she feel so inadequate lately?! First with Ondine, now just about being Adrien's friend?!
No!
She was not going to let this get to her!
Decision made, she grabbed her containers of snacks and made her way to the bedroom, and up the fire escape.
But found herself stalled outside his window, fist raised to knock.
What if he was busy?! Had someone over? The woman he loved, perhaps?!
Which brought up another whole slew of questions!
Who the hell was she?! Why hadn't he told her about her?
She had been pretty focused of school since they moved out of the mansion, but she just hadn't wanted to fall behind with no Natalie pushing them!
She knocked before she lost her nerve.
And waited.
Huh.
Pouting, Mari was slightly disappointed. All that fussing and arguing with herself were for nothing.
Maybe he had forgotten. Or changed his mind. She had left her cell in her apartment so as not to be distracted, so she couldn't even check.
Sighing disappointedly, she turned around to make her way back home.
"Mari!" was shouted - albeit a bit muffled- behind her.
She whipped around to see Adrien through the glass, hair dripping wet, in nothing but a pair of Gabriel brand boxers.
The window slid open and he grabbed her arm, pulling her inside.
"I thought I heard a knock! I thought I was coming down! I didn't really take that long in the shower did I?! Im sorry for being late!" he rambled, kind of a mix between nervous and excited.
"Not late," she smiled warmly, "I'm early. But I'm not used to being idle, so I figured, no different here than at mine!"
Grinning widely, strong arms pulled her against a slightly damp, wet chest in a hard hug.
"I'm glad you asked to do something. I've missed you lately." He muttered, as he rested his chin atop her head.
Pulling back, she couldn't help the guilty expression that settled on her face.
"I'm so sorry, that's my fault. I haven't been a great friend lately."
Hurt flashed in his eyes so fast, before it was replaced by unbridled joy.
"Don't talk about my best friend that way M, I might take offense!"
Laughing, she punched him on the shoulder lightly.
"Bring it," she teased.
They settled on his couch, with all her snacks set out on the coffee table, with an older movie they hadn't seen in awhile playing. They were sitting close, a blanket covering both of their laps, and Marinette's legs laid out across Adrien's lap.
Despite the movie playing being a favorite of hers - and hilarious- she just couldn't get into it! Adrien laughed along to the movie beside her, and she found herself glancing at him out of the corner of her eye more often than she was looking at the movie!
What was he thinking? Did HE think she was a bad friend? She had thought she had seen hurt in his eyes earlier, but it had been gone so fast, she couldn't be sure. She didn't intentionally try to be a bad friend. She was just working so hard! Adrien used to work equally as hard, but now - ever since they moved to the apartments - not as much.
Wasn't it his dream to do Physics? Wasn't that why he fought so hard to be allowed to enroll in it? And if it wasn't, then why do it at all?
And WHAT had that been about with Ondine?! She had seemed to be consoling him, rather than the date she had hoped it would turn out to be for them!
She wanted to ask - so bad- but was that considered rude? Snoopy? He was her best friend! Normally she didn't have to pry, he just spilled it all, unasked!
This new, secretive Adrien was new.
Mari didn't know how much she liked him.
"How did you like Ondine?" she blurted out before she could think better of it.
Without breaking eye contact with the tv, he smiled. "She was great! We talked alot! And she was super helpful."
"With what?"
His pale cheeks turned pink, and he finally turned to her.
"It's embarrassing," he spoke softly.
She arched a brow. "Adrien, we've discussed healthy poop colors, and whether or not it's gross to have sex while a girl is on her period. What can be more embarrassing than that?!"
Pink turned to red on his cheeks at that. "Do I share too much?" he asked, uncertain.
"No!" she rolled her eyes. "I mean, we discuss everything else and you never have a problem, why is this different?"
"It's about a girl I like, who doesn't like me." he whispered so quiet she had to strain to hear. "And it's more embarrassing because you know them, and i dont want it to be weird."
Oh.
Well shit.
"Awww, Adrien, that's not embarrassing! You know no matter who they are, I'll always pick you, right?!" she tried to sooth him.
"I- I know, but i dont want you to have to. It's fine. Ondine just helped me, with an outsiders perspective. That's all. I wouldn't have told her, but she's just like you - stubborn. She wouldn't take no for an answer."
That made Mari laugh.
"I guess i can be a little stubborn." she conceded.
"A little?!" his tone was incredulous.
"OK!" she cried, gesturing widely with her arms. "A bit more than a little! Your my best friend! I get to be pushy! Or else no early morning cuddles when you break up with your girlfriend!"
Perfect peach lips formed an O, and he huffed, offended. "That was one time Mari!"
"Your right. The other one was a late night cuddle." she teased.
He frowned at her, and crossed his arms, angling his body away from her a bit. "Rude. See if I come to you for help again."
She would have thought he was serious, if not for how tightly his lips were clenched together, and how his shoulders shook slightly.
"Liar. Nobody is better than me!"
"Ondine could be a tie for first!" he argued, but she could tell he was joking. But she played along anyway! She missed this side of Adrien.
"Lies! Take that back, or suffer the consequences!"
"Or what?! Gonna feed me to death?!"
"Worse," she growled playfully, "I'll tickle you."
His eyes grew wide. "You wouldn't DARE!! You promised never aga-"
He was cut off when Mari bowed her legs over top and around his- preventing him from shifting his legs away- and reached behind his knee caps - to the one place he was ticklish. He howled with laughter, until tears were streaming from his eyes. He tried to push her off, but Mari was having none of that.
"Stop!" he gasped between gulping breaths and laughter. He tried to push her tegs away. When that didn't work, he tried to block her arms, to no avail.
"I'm the best! Admit it!"
"I'm gonna pee!" he panted.
"Well then, won't that be embarrassing!" she cried out, totally heartless.
"OK, OK! Your the best! Nobody is second! It's just you!" he finally gave in.
She immediately stopped, and beamed a smile at him.
"See, that wasn't so hard," she teased him.
"Speak for yourself, you weren't the one about to piss yourself."
"Oh, like you've never made me laugh til I actually did before!"
"That was your fault! Your the one who suggested playing crainum with just the two of us - and your brilliant idea when we got to that moving the other to mimic the card- and you couldn't successfully move me into the hokey pokey. You made me laugh so hard that I farted!" Adrien reminded her.
"In my face!" she cried.
"And then you pissed yourself you laughed so hard!
" Oh, Natalie's face when she came running in!" Mari laughed. It was one of her best memories of being at the mansion.
"That was definately embarrassing to explain." he agreed.
"Your not the one who had to walk to their room with wet pants."
"Your not the one who had to explain you farted in the others face!"
They both started laughing again.
Eventually quieting down, they both sat in companionable silence, focus now back on the TV. But Marinette couldn't fully focus.
It felt like how their friendship had been before. But was everything still the same? She chewed on her lip, wondering if he would keep being secretive.
"You'd tell me if something changed, right?" she asked sofly.
Adrien turned his soft green eyes her way. "Of course I would." he said quickly. "Why would you think i wouldn't?"
She hummed quietly. "We just used to tell each other everything. But you liking someone at all - them liking you back or not- is news to me, when usually I know you better than myself."
She felt bad when a guilty expression took over his face. Maybe she shouldn't have said anything, but she didn't want to lose her best friend!
" I'm sorry M," he spoke softly, taking her hand in both of his. "I guess with Kim part of the picture now, I just assumed you didn't want to be bothered with all of my petty insecurities anymore. Because I do realize you have been absolutely THE best friend a person could have ever asked for these last years. I just didn't want you to get tired of me."
"Adrien, that's silly! I'd never get tired of you! Your my best friend!" she objected.
"And your mine," he agreed. "But am I your best friend because there wasn't ever anybody else around? We weren't exactly allowed to go out and socialize."
She smiled warmly, and gave his hand a squeeze. "Adrien - while it's true we didn't see anyone else to make friends with, it's also true that - I never had a best friend before I came to live with you either. I mean, im learning I had friends, sure, but no best friend."
She took great joy in watching his sad expression slowly turn considering, and then his sudden beaming smile.
"I never really thought about it like that." he stated happily.
"So, when I say your my best friend Adrien, I mean it."
"Thanks Marinette. You don't know how badly I needed to hear that."
She leaned in when he wrapped her in a hug, and rejoiced at having her friend back. All of him.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Weeks passed, and Mari only became more and more confused.
Alya had set-up another non-date a woman from one of Adrien's classes - Gina.
Outwardly, Gina had been perfect! Long blonde curly hair, perfect heart shaped face with perfectly appealing features. Eyes a glorious everest green. She had been a runner - trim and fit and long limbed.
In all honesty, Marinette could have seen Gina paired with Kim easily. They were both athletic. Both tall and fit and good looking. They'd have made a great pair.
That was the first thing Mari had thought when she arrived, and had seen Gina at the aquarium for their unofficial triple date.
When she had arrived, Kim and Alya had been there, talking with Gina, and they had been having a great conversation, from the looks of it. But Mari was trying to not be so insecure about herself.
So what that Gina was half a foot taller than Mari? So what that Gina had the flirty touches down pat? So what that Gina's hair seemed to glisten in the sun?
All those thoughts had fled the moment Kim had seen her. The way his eyes had seemed to light up - and his whole posture seemed to come alive! He had galloped over to her, and lifted her clear off her feet and spun her around, pressing kisses all over her face, making her giggle uncontrollably.
"I missed you, sweets." he had whispered into her ear. Even though they had seen each other 2 days ago.
So, faith in herself restored, they had entered the aquarium, this time not splitting up- like at the zoo.
Marinette needed to know what the hell Adrien was telling these women!
Which, yes, she was aware that was rude, but if you don't know what your fighting, then your destined to lose.
Gabriel taught her that.
Which is why Gabriel went to fashion shows all over the world, even ones that weren't relevant to his own business. You needed to know the players to play the game.
So the entire afternoon, Alya, Nino, Adrien, Gina, Kim and Mari, had perused the aquarium, never straying more than 10 feet from each other.
Still!
As they parted at the gates, Gina had hugged Adrien tightly, offering up any help he ever needed, all he had to do was ask and she'd be there for him. Reassuring him he wasn't alone and she knew what he was going through.
Ugh!
What the hell, Adrien?!
Had he lied to her?! When she had questioned it on movie night, he had said it was no big deal! But why then, was this the second woman telling him to not give up?!
Marinette was definately starting to -ok, yes, in all honesty, was already - get annoyed.
Alya had just glanced questionly at Marinette when this had happened, and she hadn't had an answer. Could only shrug and remain as equally confused as her Brunette friend.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
"Sweets, maybe you should just... Stop."
"Stop?!"
Marinette was lounging on a blue picnic blanket in the park, head resting on Kim's lap while he leaned back against a tree. His hand resting on her stomach, linked with her own, as Mari stared at the sky, and Kim people watched in the park. They had been to visit her parents, until the teens were shoved out of the bakery with a picnic basket full of treats, and told to enjoy the rare afternoon off.
It was a Monday, and definately a rare day to not have classes. But, Universities had non-instructional days too, just the same as high schools.
"Yeah. It doesn't really seem like Adrien is cooperating." he said with a grin.
"Well of course he's not. He doesn't know it's happening!"
"True. But he just seems to keep talking about some other girl."
Mari frowned at that. He definately wasn't wrong!
"I asked him about that, and he said it was nothing. Someone he couldn't have, and he was over it. But if he's over it, why keep bringing it up?"
"Exactly." Kim answered, even though the question had been rhetorical.
Xoxoxoxoxo
Marinette was scrambling.
Ondine had called her that morning to ask if she had any plans with Kim for his birthday on Thursday - fuck, she hadn't even known his birthday WAS Thursday until Ondine said so! So on the fly with only 2 days to go, the flustered teen was wracking her brain and googling like mad to try and find something to do with Kim!
If it were up to her, they would stay in. But Ondine wanted to throw a party!!
God, Mari didn't have time to plan a party!! She could barely even figure out what to do for the actual day!
Frustrated, the woman flopped back on her couch in defeat.
Almost 6 months.
She couldn't believe that was how long they had been together. A year ago, she wouldn't have even thought she had time for a boyfriend ever, let alone to magically make it past 5 months.
Kim was super amazing about everything, thankfully. All those quick breaks between classes, and sometimes only seeing each other once a week once classes started for Kim too. Briefly, Mari had thought how much easier it would be if they just lived together.
But only briefly!
It was her first relationship! She couldnt possibly move that fast!
Could she??
No!
Dating 101: don't move too fast. You make mistakes that way, and feel like you can't turn back!
So, back to the current problem. Party or no party?
Would it seem wierd if she DIDN'T do a party considering how long they had been together? Who would she even invite if she did? She knew all the people who used to be in his class, but there wasn't even a guarantee they stayed that close and would be invitation worthy. And Mari had no idea what friends he might have. Ondine had been new to her. The rest of the swimming team would be as well. While she had been to competitions, they were all kind of busy. And the 2 teens didn't stick around to visit! Not when they had so little time together as it was!
Before she could back out of her choice, she pulled her cell out and shot off a quick messageto Ondine.
Marinette- I am not planning a party. I wouldn't even know where to start. But I will monopolize his time on Thursday. :)
Marinette - so feel free to yourself!
It only took a few minutes for a response to pop up.
Ondine - no worries! I kind of figured youd be low on time, since you guys still havent stuck around to meet the rest of the swim team.
Ondine - by monopolize do you mean bedroom exercises?! ;)
Marinette - NO!!
Marinette - not saying that wouldn't happen, but that wasn't my plan!
Ondine - LOL! he'd actually probably love that.
Ondine - or anything to do with you, really. He gushes nonstop about simply being in your presence
Ondine - it's kind of adorable, but disgusting at the same time.
Marinette - should I worry about everyone's perception of me then? They aren't gonna hate me on site, will they?
Ondine - Lord no! Half the team have been together forever! They're just glad he's not beating himself up about you moving anymore.
Ondine- the other half can suck my imaginary dick if they wanna complain!
Ondine- you 2 are adorable. They need to get over it
Marinette - you are really the best, you know that? Thanks =)
Phew. That was one obstacle down. And Ondine really was the best!
Despite being jealous to start with, next to the red heads Tall perfect - ness, she was a super great friend!
XOXOXOXO
Thursday had Marinette skipping a class for the second time that semester.
She had mad a frantic call to Natalie - the woman really was a godsend- who made ALOT of calls on her behalf.
Mari had just wanted a simple dinner. In a garden or something. She had also planned to cook him something. After all, she HAD asked where Kim had gotten their food for that first date, to which he had informed her he cooked it himself - God, he really was perfect!
So, the plan had been to cook for him.
Natalie had made sure all the groceries were bought and delivered Thursday morning.
So Mari entered her apartment to find non perishables on the counter, as well as printed instructions and times for everything.
Had she mentioned that Natalie was amazing?!
So with as much care and presicion she would put into baking a cake, Marinette started putting together the casserole as per the recipe. When that was all finished and in the oven baking, she started making the simple salad she had decided on.
And lastly, with everything else done or cooking, she started on the fruit tarts for dessert.
While Mari knew she was an adequate cook, baking was really her stronger skill. And the more relaxing of the two.
So it was no wonder that as she mixed and rolled and filled and perfected her tarts, her mind wandered.
Adrien was still being wierd, but less so than before. Which was good. Nice. Maybe it was just the adjustment period of her having a boyfriend now that had made things wierd. It would make sense. For 5 years now, it had just been the two of them. And before Mari, Adrien hadn't had anyone. So, it was no surprise he was super focused on her! It had been their whole dynamic!
Kim had certainly changed that.
And while Marinette was happy about it, Adrien might not be.
Kim certainly made her happy. Like, copious amounts of happiness! She knew it wasn't common to meet your forever person at such a young age- and she wasn't saying she WAS there with kim- but, she could see it going that way.
He WAS pretty perfect.
Well, not that she thought he was ACTUALLY perfect, but perfect for her. Nice and kind and funny and considerate. He was still competitive - as evidenced by his dozens of swimming trophies- but that wasn't necessarily a bad thing. He didn't get jealous over every guy who spoke to her, and he didn't even have to fit in with her friends- because other than Adrien, they WERE his friends!
Mindlessly, Mari worked her way through all the tasks she had, until the next thing she knew, there was a knocking at the door.
Calling a quick 'come in' as she placed the last finished tart on the serving tray she had selected, she looked up at the door opening to see Natalie standing in the open doorway, with a Rolly cart pushed in ahead of her.
The older woman gave a small grin. "I'm glad to see your attention to direction is as good as ever."
Giggling, the teen wiped her hands on the tea towel sitting next to her on the counter.
"I'm glad to see your famous efficiency is as accurate as ever," she praised back.
"How are you choosing to present your meal? Family style, or dished out?"
"I baked it in the nice dish, so I could do family style. It's hard to present a casserole on a plate and have it look good." Mari explained her reasoning.
Natalie's agreeing nod made her feel better about the decision.
"Then let's load up the tray with all you'll need. I have a. warmer cover for your casserole."
"Your the best Natalie. Truely." Marinette praised.
Together, they loaded up the tray, making sure there was proper cutlery and serving utensils.
"Dishes are already provided." she was informed. "Let's head on up, so you can inspect the area prior to his arrival."
"Up?!"
Mari glanced at her mentors assistant, who simply smiled knowingly back.
So, pushing the cart, Marinette followed the older woman to the elevator, who pressed the top floor button.
Mari frowned slightly. What could possibly be on the top floor? She knew that when they were allowed to stay, Gabriel had explicitly stated that it was off limits, so why were they heading there now? And of course. Natalie was being as cryptic as ever!
With a ding and a whoosh, the elevator came to a stop, and the doors slid open to reveal the roof of the building, not the top floor, as Mari had first thought.
It didn't reach the edge of the building, but glass walls ran around 4 sides, stopping a good few feet away from the ledge. The glass roof was domed, and upon further inspection, she noticed some panels of the walls and roof were screens. And everywhere you looked, there were oodles and oodles of flowers!
Flowers of all kinds! Huge pots of rose bushes, smaller pots gardenias, tulips, lavender, and so much more! Flowers Mari couldn't even begin to list the names of!
Wire shelves curled into intricate designs lines alot of the walls, and little tables of the same design were spread all over, overflowing with plants. A small fountain was off to one side, with what looked like a small rock waterfall. Listening closely, she could just make out the bubbling of the water as it fell. Being as there was no water source up here, it must be operated by a pump, but the design made it so. You couldn't even tell.
Sturdy wooden benches with deep green cushions were scattered throughout the place, which seemed to have no rhythm or reason, but that looked marvelous all the same.
But while all the green and bright pops of color drew the eye, what hit you most was the hundreds of butterflies flitting about!
"God Nat, what the hell is this place?! And why have I never known it existed before?!" Mari tried to take it all in, with her head moving rapidly all over every part.
"This is Gabriel's butterfly garden." Nat explained, a hint of emotion leaking through. "His wife adored butterflies, so as a surprise for her birthday one year, he had this built for her. Only a couple years later, she passed away. But she used to tell me- when the cancer was at its worst- that being here always brought her peace. Gabriel always talked about bringing Adrien, so he could remember her too. I dont know if he ever did. The last few years, Adrien hasn't gone into one of his usual mourning states on the day of her death."
Natalie closed her eyes briefly, before swinging her gaze to state at the teen.
" I've always attributed that to you, Marinette. Maybe he was lonely, without his mother. Maybe he just needed a friend. But whatever it was, I'm sure your the reason. And Gabriel - and I - are both grateful for that."
Marinette smileded warmly at her mentors assistant, and drew closer to her, setting her hand on the older womans arm.
" Adrien is my best friend. I'm happy I helped him."
They shared another moment, before Natalie shook herself slightly.
"But, enough about the past. If you want to be ready on time, we must hurry."
That being said, Natalie pushed the cart around a long planter that was backed by a trellis and covered in vines, to reveal a glass topped table, sat on top of a metal frame, in the same delicate patterns the shelves around the room had. Chairs in the same pattern were around the table, with the same deep green colored cushions from the benches. Plates, glasses, napkins, and cutlery were already neatly placed at the table.
"This is beautiful Natalie. Thank you so much for letting me use this place."
With a shrug and a smile, "Thank Gabriel. He suggested it."
"I'll do that. Thank you." leaning over, she kissed Natalie's cheek in thanks.
Together, the two women set up what they could on the table, and went to return back Down to Marinette's apartment.
"One last thing Mari," and with that, Natalie pressed a button next to the elevator, and hundreds of twinkling fairy lights lit up the small space.
Xoxoxoxoxoxox
Marinette was just putting the last touches on her lip stick when there was a knock on her door. Only this time, she knew it wouldn't be Natalie.
Aforementioned woman had left 30 minutes ago, to give her time to change.
With one last glance in the mirror, Marinette took in her simple black spaghetti strap pencil dress, with a sheer white infinity scarf around her neck, covered in pink cherry blossoms. Bright red lipstick coated her lips, with only a light blush on her cheeks, and her hair - which used to brush the back on her neck, but now touched her shoulder blades - curled lightly to frame her face.
With a satisfied nod to her reflexion, Marinette exited the bathroom and opened the door for her boyfriend.
"Right on time, Monkey," she greeted him with a warm smile, leaning against the open door.
Her boyfriends wide smile greeted her.
Instantly her heart melted just a bit. It never failed to bring her joy, just seeing him. Which still surprised her some days - when she stopped to think about it. Totally oblivious - to the point of being socially inept - Kim was not who she would have thought she'd chosen.
But seeing his beaming smile pointed her way made her heart flutter. Which was kind of reminiscent of the way Adrien Agreste used to make a 13 year old Marinette's heart flutter.
Just... More.
"If you keep staring at me like that, I'll ruin your gorgeous outfit," Kim murmured with a small smirk.
"Can't help it. My boyfriends so handsome,"
She took in his perfectly fitting black slacks and perfectly tucked in an auburn dress shirt. She had told Kim to be nicely dressed, but she'd forgive him for not doing up his top button.
"You clean up well, handsome," Mari stated, as she leaned in to give him a lingering kiss on the lips.
"So do you, sweets." he whispered against her lips. "So, where are we heading to?"
Looking at him from the corner of her eye, Mari gave a secretive smile. "It's a surprise. But we should hurry, or we'll be late." Having said that, Mari slid her feet into the 2 inch simple black heels she had set beside the door to wear.
Taking his hand in hers and reining their fingers together, she closed her door and dragged Kim back the way he'd came - the elevator.
She secretly delighted at his confused look when she clicked up instead of down.
Warm hands slide around her shoulder, and gently turned her to face him.
"You know you didn't have to do anything for me, sweets." he murmured as he leant down and rested his forehead against hers.
Giggling lightly, Mari pushed up on her toes and brushed a kiss on his lips.
She still thought it was funny, their height difference. The top of her head didn't even reach his shoulders, even in her heels! But she loved it. The way he could rest his chin on the top of her head when they hugged, or how he could just wrap himself around her, blanketing her with his body.
Just one of the many things she loved about him.
Liked! She meant liked!
They weren't at the love stage yet. At least, she didn't think so? She could be, she was sure. Easily. But she was too young... Wasn't she?!
Before she could spiral too out of control, the elevator dinged, and the doors slid open.
In the time it had taken her to get ready, the sun had started to go down, bathing the butterfly garden in warm orange and pink light. The twinkling fairy lights added a wonderful feeling of enchantment to the whole thing. The flowers all seemed to glow in the fading light, and the gentle flapping of the butterflies wings added a gentle ebb and flow of light everywhere.
"Wow," was breathed quietly beside her.
Giggling, Mari grabbed Kim's hand, pulling him around the trellis of ivy to the table she had set up.
"Now, it's my turn to treat you." she stated warmly.
Xoxoxoxoxoxoxox
"What did I ever do to deserve you?" Kim asked reverently, as the 2 lounged on one of the many cushioned benches scattered throughout the garden. Cuddled together, Mari enjoyed the way his fingers skimmed down her arm, and back up in a gentle motion, and the way he'd brush a kiss over her forehead, or on the top of her head, every few minutes.
"Well, pulling my hair didn't help any," she stated, as she smirked into his chest.
"Your never gonna let me live that down, are you?" he groaned good naturedly.
"Of course not!" she laughed. "I'll be sure to tell our kids that their papa was a misguided, hormonal kid, and to learn from his mistakes!"
Her laughter died out when she felt his arm around her shoulders stiffen.
Had she said something wrong?!
"You - uh- y-you think well have kids together?!" he stuttered out helplessly.
Marinette's eyes shot open, as she jerked her head upward to stare into his equally wide eyes.
"I uh, no - I mean yes- I mean who knows? I don't - I'm sure you don't - that's not - we're not- I didn't mean- augh!" giving up, she buried her face into his chest. "This is so embarrassing." she mumbled.
Strong arms wrapped around her, and his chest shook gently.
"Are you laughing at me?!" she asked, outraged.
"Of course not, sweets." but she heard the humour in his voice. "It's adorable how flustered you get though.
"Oh, shush you." she pinched his arm, and giggled at his surprised squack.
"I think it'd be adorable, little Kim's and Marinette's running around."
Mari couldn't tell if he was joking or not, but she was still too embarrassed to lift her head and guage his facial expression. She gave a little whine, but the image he put in her head was actually... Really appealing.
Once upon a time, it was blue eyed blonde babies she pictured. Now, thanks to her boyfriends words, blue eyed black haired babies flashed through her mind.
With a wistful sigh, she tipped her head up to kiss Kim's stubby chin, before snuggling back into him, a smile gracing her red lips.
Xoxoxoxoxoxox
The rest of the week seemed to fly by, until the next thing Marinette knew, she was on her way to Kim's birthday party, organized by Ondine.
Kim had asked if she wanted him to pick her up, but that seemed kind of silly. Ondine had convinced their swimming coach to use the pool house for Kim's party. They wouldn't be using the actual pool, just the entrance area when you first walk in, which was probably easily 3 times the size of her whole apartment.
She had been over last night to help Ondine with the decorations. Their coach had pulled tables out of storage, that were generally used for sign ins when other schools came for tournaments. As well as a stack of chairs. There probably wouldn't be enough seats for everyone to sit, but most people would probably stand and walk around anyway.
Ondine had also brought the gaudiest, most mismatched decorations she could gather or buy.
Mari's own parents had a box of decorations- everything from flowers and pink streamers from her own 14th birthday, to new years party poppers and blow horns, to 'over the hill' banners from when her dad had turned 50. She had then found some baby boy table centerpieces, with shiny plastic diaper shapes attached to sticks like balloons.
Then Mari's mother had shown up, explaining how she'd been at the store, and found paper cups, napkins, and plates with monkeys all over them - which she thought were adorable, considering her daughters nickname for Kim.
Just thinking of the outlandish mashup of decorations made the girl giggle as she spied the pool house just a bit of a ways in front of her.
Patting her bag, Mari made sure her present for Kim was still safely nestled inside. Then patted the pocket of her pink skinny jeans to make sure she remembered her phone.
10 feet from the entrance to the pool, Mari quickly smoothed her hands nervously down the front of her black sleeveless shirt. She wondered - for the hundredth time- if the draped front to her top fell too low. But it was too late now.
Fed up with her self consciousness, Mari marched the rest of the way to the door and swung it open with a confidence she didn't really feel.
Inside, she was greeted by at least two dozen other kids, and a few adults - like her own parents, who had brought the cake and desserts, their coach, and a handful of others she didn't know.
She spied Ondine across the room, and when her eyes scanned the room and found her, she enthusiastically raised an arm and started waving frantically. The adults she was currently talking to - one was the coach, the woman, Mari had no idea who she was.
She started making her way towards Ondine, when strong, familiar arms wrapped around her shoulders, and spun her around.
"Hey beautiful", Kim said with a smile as he gave her a hug.
Mari wrapped her arms around his chest without hesitation, and just enjoyed being in his arms for a few seconds, before pulling back a little and just staring at him warmly.
"Your early," was all she said.
"Well, it's not like it was a surprise, so does that really matter?" he asked with a quirk to his smile.
Mari's only response was a roll of her eyes.
"Come on," she grabbed his wrist to pull him behind her. "Ondine was wanting me to head her way."
"O-oh," his nervous laugh stopped her, and as she gazed at her boyfriend, he tugged a little on an ear. "Don't worry about that. Alix and Max just got here. They've been badgering me for ages to see you again."
Briefly distracted by the mention of her former classmates, Mari laughed warmly.
"Is Alix still as competitive as ever?!" she asked, as she let Kim steer her in the opposite direction of Ondine.
"Was she?" he asked with an exaggerated confused face. "I don't remember that."
Mari laughed and poked his side. "That's because it was always against you!"
"Lies!" he cried, mock horror shining in his eyes. "Take that back! I was a perfect gentleman as a kid!"
"Riiiight... So this race I heard you two had, to make you stop issuing dares, was all fake?!"
Kim sputtered, outraged. "I didn't issue dares! I brought out the best in people, that's all!"
"Right. And my hairs blue." came a voice Marinette hadn't heard in years. It was the same, yet not.
Glancing to the side brought her face to face with the pink haired girl she remembered from her youth. But now, she was all grown up. No longer shorter than very one else, but still as unique as ever. Hair cut short and spiked back, with toned legs and arms underneath her tight
3/4 sleeved shirt covered in doodles, and what looked like running shorts.
"Hey Marinette, long time no see." Alix greeted her with a mischievous smile. "Glad you finally put this guy here out of his misery."
"Please, Alix, you know this only means we hear a different kind of whining." Max stepped out from behind Alix, and he was like a clone of his younger self. Just taller. With a better styled dress shirt tucked into his black pants. The suspenders still present, as they had been so long ago.
" Max, Alix, it's great to see you again!" she greeted them.
As she extended a hand to shake, Alix scoffed, before pushing said hand aside, and pulling her into a hard hug.
"Ever leave us in the lurch like that again, and I'll kick your ass." was whispered into her ear.
Susprise flickered across her face, and Max just nodded his head when she looked at him to see if Alix was serious.
She didn't think she had been all that important a part of their class dynamic.
"Sorry." she offered, even though she wasn't sure why.
Xoxoxoxoxo
"I'm tell you Kim, you can walk on water with these shoes!" Alix exclaimed enthusiastically, while thrusting something into his hands.
Kim lifted a brow at his friend and scoffed.
"Alix, these look like snow shoes. Are you sure about what they're used for?"
"What, are you scared to try?!"
There was a reason that all through school, the most Mari could remember about Kim and Alix was their propensity for dares. Races around the schoolyard. Who could shove more fries in whose mouth. Who could manage to snip a piece of Chloe's hair without getting caught.
"What?! No!" Kim exclaimed loudly in response to Alix's taunt.
"Then it's on?" she grinned evily.
"It's on." her boyfriend confirmed recklessly.
In all honesty, Marinette wasn't even sure why Kim agreed. The shoes were obviously not meant for water. There were holes in them, for crying out loud!
But it was his call.
She wondered if he just couldn't stand being challenged. If he really needed to prove he was the best. All of it just seemed silly to her!
But nevertheless, she followed everyone else at the party to the stands next to the pool. Mari made sure to get a front row seat to Kim's downfall.
Both teens started at the mark, 'water' shoes on, and in a runners stance. Kim had shed his shirt and shoes, while Alex stripped off all her clothes to reveal a one piece suit underneath. Both looked equally determined, and both were trash talking the other.
Something brushed up against Mari's arm, and she glanced over to see that the swim teams coach had taken a seat next to her. She smiled warmly. He smiled right back.
"Who do you think will win?" he asked casually.
"Your not mad at them?" the girl asked, a bit surprised.
He answered with a shrug. "Nothing those two do surprises me anymore." he stated. "I dont believe we've been introduced, even though I've seen you around quite a bit!"
"Oh!" the teen blushed lightly. "Sorry, yeah. I'm Marinette. It's great to meet you!" she reached her hand out for him to shake.
He gave her hand a funny look, before shaking it anyway. "Nice to meet you Marinette. I'm -"
"Kim's coach, I know! You must be proud of the team you've put together." she interrupted.
"I am, yes. I'm also -"
At that moment, the 2 racers yelled go, and Mari almost missed them pushing off.
It was a hot mess.
There was no other way to explain it. Alix stumbled off the edge and didn't even make it a full step into the pool before hitting the water. Kim lasted a good 4 steps. Long enough that the smugness had time to take root, but not enough to gloat out load.
Until he too, fell forward, and slapped his face against the water with a hard smack.
A chorus of cheers /calls of concern rose up from behind her.
"Kim!" Mari shouted worriedly, jumping up from her seat and running to where he had started the race.
Both teens broke the surface of the pool, sputtering water.
"I won!" was the first thing Kim yelled as soon as he stopped coughing.
"Only because you cheated you jerk!" Alix yelled. But it didn't seem to have any heat behind it. And her grin was at odds with her accusation.
"Sweets, tell Alix I won."
Mari was surprised to be pulled into the conversation, but spotlke up nonetheless.
"Sorry Alix. Kim tripled your step count. It was a clear win." she finished with a shrug.
"Woo!!" Kim hollered in victory.
"What ever happened to bro before hos Mari?!" Alix accused.
"You did not just call me a ho, Alix Kubdel!" Mari exclaimed, hand covering her heart in mock hurt.
"Well, your with this jack ass, so who knows."
"Hey!" Kim hollered at his friend. "nobody insults the light of my life and gets away with it!" his statement was followed by dunking Alix under the water.
Mari raised an eyebrow and smirked at her boyfriend. "Light of your life, huh?"
"I said nothing."
"Nu uh, you said it. I heard it! I'm counting it!"
"Lies!" he cried. While swimming towards her. "Slander!" he continued.
"Aww, monkey. Dont worry, it was cute."
"So is this."
His statement was followed by his hand grabbing her ankle, and yanking her so hard, she stumbled forward, right into the pool on top of him.
Water swished around her head, and she could just make out the twinkling eyes of her boyfriend, before they both broke the surface.
Sputtering, Mari splashed water in his face.
"You did not just do that Kim!"
Hoots and holler echoed out around them, but neither pair attention.
"All in good fun sweets." he cajoled.
"Nu uh. Nope. I'm out!" that being said, Mari turned and made her way to the edge, away from Kim.
"Sweets, don't be like that," his laughing voice followed her.
"Sweets."
"Babe!"
"Marinette!!"
When she refused to stop for him, she heard splashing behind her, and was startled when he grabbed around her waist, and whirled her around and hauled her up against his chest. But she refused to lift her head and look at him.
"Marinette, sweets, it was all in good fun. Please talk to me."
"You'll have to make it up to me." she whispered.
"Anything." Kim started to pepper kisses all over her forehead.
"Good." she looked up then, and could tell he was startled by the barely suppressed laughter. "I need clothes to get home. So I'm using yours, since you took yours off before getting wet."
Her boyfriend threw his head back and laughed, before grabbing both sides of her face and kissing her senseless.
"There's no one like you Mari."
Xoxoxoxoxo