Inconsistency

by Gale-Dragon

Tired of all the Dupont Staff salt and incompetent teachers? Well, it's time for a Lila's Lies are Exposed fic that removes the over-saturation of salt by having the teachers do their jobs to both protect their students and discovers the extent of Lila's lies. Guest-staring some fang-tastic characters working as Private Investigators!

2. Chapter 2

Inconsistency: Chapter 2.

}I{

Bella and Laura weren't sitting by idly while they waited for Dupont to let out and follow Lila Rossi to her home. The moment they came into the Drac-U-Allies Agency, the first thing they did was look up the Italian Embassy for Paris. Obviously, the names of the diplomats weren't posted on the Embassy's website. But it did give them the address for the Place, and once they got everything they needed the two youngest PIs headed off. Both are eager to confirm that Mrs Rossi either worked at the Embassy or not, and hopefully skip one step.

Seras, meanwhile, was doing her own research. One of the people she was looking into brought in a lot of information while the other hardly had any solid information... Which was... Strange given what she was able to find.

Seras had to stop when she felt the familiar pain in her left arm. She moved her right hand to try to alleviate the pain by rubbing it only to remember that her entire left arm was prostatic. Seras glanced to the side, far too aware of how she lost that arm.

"What are you doing?"

Seras glanced up to see Al somewhat looming over her.

The blonde woman scoffed when she stated, "Phantom pains, dimwit. You know I get them occasionally."

Al folded his arms when he said, "I was talking about what you're looking up on the internet. You know these computers are for research only." He glanced at the younger before asking, "Do you need something for that pain?"

Seras shook her head when she said, "Can't, I have to drive and painkillers have the nasty side-effect of making me drowsy and dull my reactions."

Al bit his lips slightly, his sharp canines poking out a little, before he said, "Hm, okay, but if the pain gets worse, take the prosthetic off and let me massage your shoulder. It should help before you have to go back to your job..." He glanced at the computer monitor when he added. "However, that doesn't look like research."

On the screen was the Ladyblog.

Fighting through the phantom pains, Seras got out in a grunt, "I know but it's the one constant thing I could find on Lila Rossi, other than the Gabriel Brand..."

Al raised a brow when he questioned, "Who is Lila Rossi and why are you looking for information on her?"

As the pain subsided to a more tolerable level, Seras moved her right hand to use the mouse to click on one of the videos when she explained, "She's a co-worker of my ward who doesn't seem to understand his personal space or respect his boundaries." She had the video on mute so her older brother could see the girl in question before adding. "A little digging through the few interviews she got, I learned that she's also my little ward's classmate... She's younger than I thought but what I've been told by him, that doesn't make things any easier."

Al raised a brow at the odd wording before asking, "Does your ward have a name?" Seras moved the mouse to open a minimized window of an article on Adrien Agreste and his part in the model word. Al only had to glance at the article before he said, "Oh, I see why..." He glanced at the younger blonde when he said, "How about you call him Sunshine since that appears to be a common nickname for him." Seras agreed to that before Al asked, "Now, what exactly happened for you to be researching this girl?"

So Seras told Al what she learned from the sunshine child not even a few hours ago, somewhat hissing out the disturbing comments about how Mr Agreste seemed to downplay Lila's unwanted attention.

With a look that made it seem like he smelt a dead skunk, Al managed to get out with a cringe, "Urg! No wonder you're researching her and Sunshine's father."

Seras nodded when she said, "Found a lot of information on Mr Agreste, but hardly anything on the Rossi girl oddly enough." Al raised a brow when he asked her what she meant by that. As the muted video ended, the blonde woman stated, "Well, according to all the interviews this Lila girl had, she's got quite the exciting and well-connected life. The problem is I haven't found anything that could support any of her claims. The only things that pop up are the Gabriel Brand and the Ladyblog."

Al was confused when he asked, "Why would this girl be on a blog dedicated to the Heroes of Paris?"

Seras shrugged her shoulders when she said, "According to her first interview with the Ladyblogger, this Lila claims to be Ladybug's Best Friend For Life." She shook her head in disappointment when she said with a sigh, "That interview just reaks of inexperience reporting and a lack of patience to double-check their sources." Seras pointed to the video when she added, "The Ladyblog has a dozen of these girl's interviews, all just her yapping about how amazing she is and the like."

Al frowned when he stated, "Ah, now I remember why I prefer certified news sources to blogs." He placed a hand on Seras' desk as he leaned over to get a better look at the screen when he said, "Given how much both Ladybug and Chat Noir emphasise the importance of keeping their identities a secret, even from one another, I doubt either would approve of a supposed trusted friend blabbing that to any kind of reporter. Even if it is for a blog..." Al looked at the veiws before commenting, "And a rather popular one at that..."

Seras looked up at her brother when she said, "Yeah, a lot of people commented about that on those Ladyblog videos. I'm kind of surprised the Ladyblogger hasn't noticed all those..." She closed the tab for the Ladyblog allowing the computer to switch to the next tab. It was opened to a more official interview with Lila. Seras narrowed her eyes when she stated, "According to this Lila girl, Ladybug isn't the only high-profile person that seems to adore her. Check out who she says she got her modelling experience from."

Al scanned the article before he made a potent frown when he practically spat out, "That! Disgusting excuse of a human!?" He pulled away from the desk as if he was shown the dissection of a living frog.

Seras watched her brother for a bit before Saying, "Yeah, I would think it was because she was classmates with the mayor's daughter, but this Lila claimed that she met the Style Queen in New York, saw potential in her, and taught her how to model. She also claims that the Style Queen sees her as an honorary daughter..."

Al folded his arms in disgust when he almost growled out, "Given that that wretched being can't remember the names of her actual daughters, or care to, I'm sure that's a lie."

Seras' eyes went back to the screen when she stated, "Funny you should say that. I couldn't find any proof that this Lila girl ever did any work for the Style Queen, even unofficially." she raised a brow before turning her attention to her brother when she asked, "Wait? What do you mean when you say 'daughters'? As in plural? Because I'm pretty sure she only has one."

Al shrugged when he said, "Who knows with that bitch." He glances at his sister when he stated, "From what I, unfortunately, know about her, she doesn't care to remember anyone who is, and I quote, "Unexceptional", unquote. Apparently, that extends to her own blood." He waved a hand as he kept his arms folded when he added, "She kept bouncing around names that weren't even close to the name Chloe… *Places the hand on his chin* or was it Zoe? The bitch's assistant of the day had to correct her but I can't remember which name they were using so I assumed that she might've had more than one."

With a cringe, Seras got out, "That's pleasant..." She then turned back to the computer when she stated, "But also weird." When Al asked how so, the woman stated, "Well, assuming that Mr Agreste gave this Lila girl the modelling job to her because she's his son's classmate, don't you think he would've at least done a basic check on if she had work history or not? That's hiring 101."

Al glanced at his sister when he asked, "He should have, especially if this person would be working with his own son..." He thought about that for a few seconds before saying, "And he would've seen that she doesn't have the experience she claims..." He looked at Seras when he asked, "You seem to think that Mr Agreste hired this Lila for another reason, don't you?"

Seras closed the window when she said, "It's a possible theory..." She looked at her brother when she said, "In all honesty, I wanted to dig up some stuff on Lila to show to Mr Agreste that she had some not-so-innocent motives so he could take the appropriate actions, but considering he was the one to hire her and seems to be ignoring Sunshine's concerns about her..."

Al cringed when he said, "You better find solid proof about that. The Gabriel Brand is a big company."

Seras nodded when she said, "Already planning on that, and I intend to take every advantage of legally being Sunshine's secretary and undercover bodyguard to find and document any proof I find."

Al nodded when he stated sternly, "Good."

}I{ At Dupont that very moment }I{

The staff had heard Fred out about the whole "overly-affectionate mess" Lila had for Adrien and they were certainly concerned about it. Until they could find someone to come in to talk to the students about being assertive positively and setting their boundaries up, they would try to keep Lila and Adrien apart during class.

But it was the moments between classes that they had to keep a watchful eye on...

}{

Swordplay: 'Hey! Sweetheart, is Ms Dupain-Cheng in your classroom rn?"

Sweetheart: "She is. She told me she had an important commission to work on and wanted the quiet of the classroom So she can fully focus on it. She is eating lunch in here too."

Sweetheart: "Why do you ask, Armond?"

Sy-Fy: "Did she leave your classroom at any time?"

Sweetheart: "No. As I said before, she is completely focused on this commission. I would ask about it, but I'm just making sure she's eating too."

Sweetheart: "Why are you asking?"

Le Mime: "Wait... Are you two verifying Marinette's whereabouts?"

Swordplay: "Correct. But it was only to disprove a claim."

}{

Ms Mendeleiev narrowed her eyes as she watched Armond telling Ms Rossi's little gaggle that he confirmed with Miss Bustier that Marinette hasn't left her classroom, and thus couldn't have done what the brunette accused her of. The science teacher heard Lila titter off that she must've been imagining things because of her nervousness about the bluette.

Both Armond and Ms Mendeleiev couldn't help but think, 'Why would Ms Dupain-Cheng make her nervous?' The only thing both teachers could think of that would cause the bluette to become scary is if someone messed with her sketchbook, which the teachers agreed was something no one wanted a repeat of.

Let's just say the reason Lila gave made Armond say in confusion, as well as suspicion, "That doesn't sound like Ms Dupain-Cheng. Are you sure you're not misunderstanding something with her?"

Ms Mendeleiev had a hunch something was going on between Lila and Marinette.

Meanwhile...

Miss Bustier gave her phone a confused look before she pocketed it. She looked up to see Marinette munching on her lunch as she wrote something in her sketchbook, not even paying attention to anything around her. The redheaded teacher tilted her head to the side as she watched the bluette work on the commission sketch.

Curiosity got the better of Caline as she got up from her desk and walked over to the student. Now that she was close enough, Miss Bustier could see that Marinette was writing down... Scribbles?

Marinette felt something off before she realised that her teacher was next to her. The bluette blinked in confusion before asking, "Oh, Miss Bustier, is there something you need?"

Caline shook her head when she said, "Oh, no, I was just curious as to what this commission is that has you so hyper-focused on it." She looks at the notes written when she asked, "But what are you writing? It's not in your usual penmanship."

Marinette looked at the page when she said, "Oh, it's a code that I created." Miss Bustier raised a brow when she asked why she would need to write a code in her own sketchbook. The bluette huffed when she stated, "Ever since the hat design contest, I've decided to write all the measurements for my designs in a code that only I knew so no one can try to steal my work. I still have my signature hidden in them though but it's now more of an artistic flair."

'Oh, that's understandable,' Miss Bustier thought as she looked over the coded measurements. The redheaded teacher had to admit, the code did look like it would discourage any attempt to copy... Wait a second...Caline couldn't help but comment, "It does look a little messy, are you sure you can read it?"

Marinette giggled before she said, "Oh, don't worry I can read it just fine. In fact, that appearance is a part of the code."

Miss Bustier had to comment, "Well, if it works for you, then I guess it's fine." But the teacher couldn't help but think, 'Hmm, so Lila did lie about Marinette making the 'unreadable notes'. She must've assumed that Marinette always wrote in bad penmanship after seeing this code... But…'

Miss Bustier walked back to her desk when she thought, 'Given that Marinette doesn't like Lila, I doubt she would willingly show her anything from her sketchbook...' So how did Lila manage to get a look in that to think that Marinette had horrible handwriting? 'And why did Lila think that Adrien wrote the notes for the copies?' Caline thought in confusion.

As Miss Bustier sat in her chair, she told the bluette, "By the way, that design looks great. I'm sure whoever requested that will treasure it."

Marinette beamed before going back to the sketchbook. Writing more coded notes.

}I{ During that Same Morning }I{

Bella and Laura had quite an interesting trip to the Italian Embassy. While they were sceptical about Mrs Rossi being an Italian Diplomate, especially since the woman didn't even put the Embassy's real address on her daughter's school file, they figured that they should at least check to see if Mrs Rossi did work there in any capacity.

The two got into the Italian Embassy easily enough. The Security wasn't unpleasant but Laura did have to take off all her metal accessories. And talking to the head of the Embassy wasn't too hard, he happened to be in the right place at the right time for the PIs. He was more than willing to answer all of the two's questions, especially when they told him about an upcoming work trip by one of his possible employees that he didn't remember approving. The head couldn't disclose anyone's current address, for security reasons, he show them the list of current diplomats that were stationed here.

Neither Bella nor Laura was surprised that none of them had the surname of Rossi. And after looking through the list of employees, no one had that surname... Bella did ask the head if he knew if any of the female employees, both staff and diplomatic, had a child by the name of Lila. The head had to open a new search tab to look that information up, alongside the 'approved work trip' search.

The closest name they could find was Lilian but it was confirmed to be a sister of a secretary... And there weren't any approved work trips that were scheduled for next week...

Well... The Embassy could double-check the financial department to ensure there wasn't any ill use of funds, but that's an issue on their end. Bella and Laura got the confirmation that Mrs Rossi didn't work there...

Laura dragged a sparkly pink pen over the paper with the contact information for Mrs Rossi. Drawing a line through the job title of Italian Diplomate. Another piece of information on the Rossi file was fake...

As the two PIs made their way out, Bella told the Head of the Embassy, "We apologise for wasting your time, and causing you to request a forensic accountant to come in..."

The Head held up a hand when he said, "It's fine, you're doing your job. Plus, we were going to call someone in to make sure the books were balanced later in the month." He folded his arms when he said, "But it probably would be a good idea to have them come in sooner rather than later." He nodded his head to the paper in Laura's hands when he added, "Though it would seem like you have a more serious issue than I do. Hope you can get to the bottom of that."

"Same here..." Laura said as she and her sister left the Italian Embassy.

Once they were outside Bella pulled out her cell phone and quickly dialled the number for Dupont.

}{

Damocles was looking over the texts from yesterday's conversation with the teachers when the school's phone rang. The Headmaster picked it up on the third ring.

"Good afternoon, this is Damocles," the owl-like man said to the caller.

"Hello, Mr Damocles, this is Bella of the Drac-U-Allies," the familiar voice came through the phone.

Damocles was surprised to hear from the PI so soon when he got out, "Oh, hello, did something come up?"

The headmaster heard the voice huff before saying, "Well, since Laura and I had time before your school lets the students out, we decided to take a trip to the Italian Embassy's real address to confirm if Mrs Rossi worked there or not."

Damocles felt a bubble of suspicion boil in his gut when he asked, "And what were you able to find out?"

Bella's tone was deadly serious when she said, "No one by the surname of Rossi works there and none of the female staff or diplomats has a daughter named Lila."

Damocles almost dropped the phone when he stuttered out a little louder than he wanted, "W-W-what?!" He quickly regain his composure when he asked, "So! So she was never a diplomate?!"

Bella's voice came in clearly when she said, "Not at the Italian Embassy at least. But this is the third piece of information on the woman that turned out to be fake and it's, unfortunately, becoming clear that we are going to have to follow Lila home..."

This was Not looking good for Mrs Rossi...

Damocles then brought up, "But even if Mrs Rossi doesn't work for an Embassy, the work trip might be real! I need you to find out what you can before that trip!"

"Understood, but if what we found out was fake..." Bella said through the phone.

Damocles nodded when he said, "I'll send you Mrs Rossi's cell phone number and email. Just do what you can."

They bid each other goodbye before hanging up.

Damocles pinched the bridge of his nose, wondering what was going on with the Rossis. But then he had a thought, 'If Mrs Rossi doesn't work for the Italian Embassy, or possibly any Embassy, then... Why would she have so many 'travelling work trips'?'

Oh... Damocles wasn't having a good feeling about Mrs Rossi.

}{

Since Seras still had some time before she had to pick up Adrien, she figured she used that time to use the position of Secretary to make sure the photoshoot would be ready on time. The Gabriel staff were nice and friendly, but one of them made a rather odd comment.

"Plan all you want, we're still going to end up staying late."

Seras blinked in confusion when she asked the person, "Eh? What do you mean by that?" Thinking that it was an odd thing to say even after all this preparation.

One of the make-up artists scoffed when they said, "Because Lila's one of the models."

Oh, that's a familiar name to the blonde woman. Keeping that confused tone up and to make sure that it was the right Lila, Seras asked, "Uh, why? Is she one of these divas or something?"

Vincent scoffed when he said, "If only that were the main problem with her."

Seras glanced between the staff before she said, "Uhh, considering I'm officially in charge of Adrien's schedule and his well-being... Is there something about this Lila I should know about?" She was hoping that this goads the Gabriel staff to give her more information. To both prove to Mr Agreste that Lila was not being appropriate with Adrien and possible proof that Adrien might need to be removed from the Agrestes.

And, oh boy, were the Gabriel staff more than willing to share their two Euros about Lila Rossi and Mr Agreste's lack of reaction to their concerns.

One of Seras' brows twitched when she asked, "Uhh, not to make any assumptions on this, but judging by what you all are saying... Do you think that Mr Agreste... Might be doing something with this Lila and she's blackmailing him into... Letting her feel up his son?"

It took a few seconds for the realisation of how they conveyed their words to this new member and were quick to correct what they actually meant. They're sure that Mr Agreste isn't doing anything inappropriate with Lila, since while the guy had a lot of faults he was devoted to his still-missing wife. They were thinking more along the lines of Lila either using a different form of blackmail or possibly telling Mr Agreste that she might know the whereabouts of his missing wife and that poor Adrien was caught in the middle of the whole thing without knowing it.

'Well... Better than I was originally thinking but not by much,' Seras thought before she asked the staff, "But don't you think that Mr Agreste would've been suspicious of the whole 'This classmate of my son could know where my missing wife is' thing? The blackmail seems a lot more plausible to me..."

Vincent couldn't help but say, "True, you have a point, but the man loves his wife like Mama loves making Spaghetti and we wouldn't put it past him to drop all logic to grasp at any lead to find her..."

Seras thought about it before she asked how many of the photos the photographers took of the shoots with Adrien and Lila that were not-so-innocent he sent to Mr Agreste. When she got the response that Nathalie looks and forts through them first and they've only sent a few of the "felt up" photos, Seras suggested that they send all of these photos to the secretary and boss. She explained in a clear voice, "I'm pretty sure if either of those two sees a surge of those pictures then they'll realise that Adrien isn't exaggerating and Lila is feeling him up and will give them an Ultimatum. Either Mr Agreste acts like a father and takes whatever consequences of whatever Lila has on him if there are any, realises that Lila isn't who she claims to be and takes appropriate measures, or does nothing and allows the CPS to take Adrien away from his custody."

Seras stated that she'll be keeping track of what has and hasn't happened to make a formal report. She quickly threw in that while Mr Agreste hired her to look after his son, she was not going to stand by and let the boy suffer under this Lila girl or the boss.

The Gabriel Staff shrugged the slip up at 'meh, fair,' before everyone went back to setting up for the models.

The only thing Seras could do was sigh in relief. She then moved her cybernetic prosthetic when it alerted her that it has been immobile for too long. Seras liked this arm a lot but she didn't like the fact it got twitchy when it was immobile when inactive for too long. 'Hope this collection won't take too long,' She thought, hoping that she could get her proof before the man realised what she was doing.

}I{ At Dupont }I{

Fred was looking over a list of potential speakers for that "Boundaries and Positive Assertiveness" lecture when he heard sounds coming from the lockers. At first, he thought that something inside one of the lockers fell but when he heard the sounds again, he got suspicious about what it could be. He quietly crept to the doorway to the locker area.

Fred quietly peaked inside and what he saw definitely rose another flag on the suspicious pole. The part-time teacher narrowed his eyes at what he saw when he thought, 'What is Ms Rossi doing in Ms Dupain-Cheng's locker?' knowing that the bluette wouldn't give the brunette permission to go into her locker.

True enough, Lila Rossi appeared to be rummaging through Marinette's locker. Fred heard the brunette scoff, "Seriously? That goody-goody doesn't put anything worth taking in here? Oh well, I didn't need to do that anyway."

Fred crept into the lockers and hid behind the locker row before the one Rossi was in when he thought, was she planning on stealing something from Ms Dupain-Cheng?' He heard the sound of the locker closing before he saw Lila exit the locker area, missing the part-time teacher.

Fred didn't see anything in her hands but... As he made his way to Marinette's locker, he thought, 'What was she planning to do? She should be in class...' Fred carefully examined the exterior of Marinette's locker. Nothing appeared different, even that busted lock hook that has been broken since last year. But that did prompt Fred to think, 'With no way to lock this, even someone as trusting as Caline wouldn't Put anything important or valuable in it. So why would Ms Rossi think Ms Dupain-Cheng would?'

Did Lila think Marinette was that trusting? Or did she assume that the bluette wouldn't think anyone would steal anything from her? Fred scratched his head when he thought, 'Strange, even if they don't get along they would still know the basics about each other...' He knew Ms Dupain-Cheng was trusting of her friends but she didn't have that blinding trust that Lila seemed to think she had. It was... Kind of weird if the part-time teacher was being honest.

Fred took a deep breath before he reached out to Marinette's locker, feeling a little guilty about having to go through it without the owner's permission to see what Lila did inside it. But he didn't have to get that far.

As soon as Fred opened the locker, a flash of orange fell out and landed on the ground with a light clink.

"Huh?" Was all Fred got out as he looked down and saw an orange fox-tail pendant with a white tip attached to a golden necklace. The part-time teacher raised a brow as he knelt to pick up the jewellery item. Fred held the pendant in his hand as he looked it over.

From the weight of the pendant, Fred knew it was real, and when he looked at the back he saw the Gabriel Brand logo. 'A jewellery piece from Mr Agreste's company? That's not cheap,' Fred thought as he looked at the item in confusion. One would have assumed that it could've been a gift from Adrien or one of Marinette's friends or it could even be a gift to a friend from Marinette, but the part-time quickly remembered that Lila said that there was nothing worth taking in the locker. Then he remembered that Lila was the one to close the locker.

'Meaning that she would've seen this…' Fred thought as he narrowed his eyes at the necklace. He then looked up at the locker, more specifically, the shelf where the necklace fell from. Fred traced the air from that shelf to the ground, following the path the necklace went. He frowned when he thought, 'It fell out as soon as I opened the door... And seeing that Lila was here right before me..."

Fred thought about the facts before him. #1, Ms Rossi claimed that there was nothing worth taking, yet here was a pricey piece of jewellery from Ms Dupin-Cheng's locker. #2, Ms Rossi was rummaging through a locker that was not hers. #3, Lila was in the locker area when she should be in class. #4, the necklace fell out of the locker as soon as it was opened by the next person... # 5, Lila was the person at the locker before the part-time teacher...

Fred's eyes narrowed even further as a frown appeared on his face. 'Why would Ms Rossi place this necklace in Ms Dupain-Cheng's locker? And in an odd position?' He thought as he stood up and closed the locker. Fred looked at the necklace in his hand before clenching that hand closed. As he left the locker area, he pocketed the necklace as he thought, 'I need to alert the other staff about this as soon as possible.'

Problem was, the teachers had classes until school let out... Well, at least they wouldn't have to worry about any of the students overhearing.

}{ Roughly 45 minutes Later }{

"Make sure that you turn in the assignment by the end of the week, "Miss Bustier reminded her class as they moved to pack their things, knowing that they are excited to leave the school soon.

Lila moved to her bag as she glanced around, making sure that everyone was busy looking through their things, before smirking as she started the next step in her first brilliant and perfect plan. She opened her bag, stuck her hand in it, and then got out in her best panicked tone, "It's not here! No! It has to be! I didn't take it out!"

Alya was quick to jump to Lila's side as she asked Lila what was wrong. The rest of the class stopped what they were doing and somewhat gravitated towards their distressed classmate. Well, all but Marinette, who rolled her eyes at the antic, Adrien who simply thought Lila was trying to get some attention before they leave, and Max who was giving Lila a confused and somewhat perplexed look.

As Lila rummaged through her bag in 'distress' she got out in a frantic tone, "My Grandmother's heirloom necklace! I had it in my bag to keep it safe but it's not here!"

As Max raised a brow in confusion, Sabrina asked the brunette, "Are you sure you had it in your bag today?"

Chloe scoffed as she made her way back to her desk when she said, "She probably left it at home."

Lila started her crocodile tears when she got out in her best distressed voice, "I didn't! My Grandmother told me to always keep her heirloom necklace with me! I would never forget it!"

Chloe grabbed her bags when she scoffed, "Yeah, whatever." As she walked out of the Classroom, she grumbled, "Too much noise over a trinket she left at home."

Caline watched the mayor's daughter leave before she asked the brunette, "Lila, are you sure that you put your necklace in your bag this morning?" When Lila replied of course she did, Miss Bustier asked, "Did you take your necklace out at any time?"

Lila shook her head when she got out frantically, "I didn't, Miss Bustier!"

Canline waved her hands in a calm-down manner when she said, "Okay, I believe you. We'll get to the bottom of this."

Marinette didn't want to have to go through all this 'pay attention to me and pity me' skit that Lila was pulling, so she grabbed her things before telling her classmates in a dry tone, "I wish you luck on your search, but I'm going to head to Ms Mendeleiev's class. I'll tell her that the rest of you might be a bit late." She stood up and made her way to the door.

Alya was quick to say in shock, "Marinette! You aren't going to help us find Lila's heirloom necklace!?"

Before Lila could say anything to drive that wedge, Marinette responded immediately with, "All of you seem to be interested in doing that, so there's no need for me to stay. Plus I doubt Chloe is going to tell Ms Mendeleiev that you might be late."

Mylene couldn't help but say, "Yeah, good idea. You go ahead, and give her the heads up."

As Marinette waved, Adrien quickly gathered his stuff and scurried out to follow the bluette. Lila scowled at that, which seemed like only Max saw before she quickly plastered on a worried look when attention was back on her. Max raised a confused brow, not completely understanding what was happening.

Alya quickly went into her journalism mode when she said, "Okay, let's retrace Lila's steps and then we'll find her necklace!"

Nino waved a hand to calm his girlfriend down when he said, "Or we can ask Lila where she kept her bag and look in these areas." Alya blushed at that, a little embarrassed that she didn't think about that first. Juleka gave the blogger a sympathetic pat on the shoulder.

'Too easy,' Lila thought as she made the motions of pretending to think before she finally said, "Well... I think I left my bag in this class during lunch and PE since we had Miss Bustier most of the day."

Rose happily chirped out, "Okay! That leaves the search area for this room!"

'Gullible idiots,' Lila thought as she looked at her bag when she commented innocently, "That's weird... The front zippers are zipped the other way." She pretended to think when she said, "I'm sure that they were on the left side, but now they're on the right. Though I don't think I've touched those zippers today..."

Max narrowed his eyes when Kim asked in confusion, "What are you suggesting? That someone went through your bag or something?" Granted the last line came out as a joke, but Lila seemed to take that seriously. It was first met with scepticism, since well, none of them would steal a friend's important item but did admit that the classrooms were open to all students.

However...

Caline did tell the class that she was here in the classroom the majority of the day. Lila did ask if the teacher stepped out for a bit, to which Miss Bustier replied, "I did for a few minutes to get some coffee, but Marinette would've seen someone come in, stopped them from taking anything, and told me about it."

'Perfect!" Lila thought as she plastered on a worried look when she got out frantically, "I knew it! She did take my necklace!"

Nino, Kim, Max, and Mylene narrowed their eyes in suspicion when they thought, 'Wait? Is she implying?' And apparently, some of the other classmates were thinking the same thing, all somewhat vocalising their opinions on the idea.

Miss Bustier couldn't help but say in a confused tone, "That doesn't sound like something Marinette would do, are you sure that you didn't just misplace your necklace?"

Lila was adamant that she didn't misplace her necklace and was sure Marinette stole it.

'Something's... Not right about this,' Kim, Mylene, Nino and Max thought in suspicion as Lila brought up some of Marinette's past actions when it came to taking things. Ivan did point out that Marinette did return the items in better condition than they were in after she asked to take them.

Despite the feeling bubbling in her gut, and against her better judgement, Caline stated, "Lila, just because you and Marinette don't get along does not mean that it's right to accuse her of stealing. But if it makes you feel better and to prove that Marinette is not a thief, I can ask her if I can look through her things."

This put a smile on Lila's face when she said with a slight gush, "Thanks Miss Bustier! You're the best!"

Caline nodded before she stated seriously, "However, I do expect you to apologise to Marinette if you are wrong."

"Oh, I will Miss Bustier," Lila said sweetly when she was thinking, 'Not that that's going to be possible~.'

For some reason, Nino, Kim, Mylene, and Max didn't have a good feeling about this.

}{

Ms Mendeleiev checked her watch for the third time within the past ten minutes, not liking the fact that the current class was late saved for three. The science teacher looked up just in time to see both Adrien and Chloe trying to sneak a peek at whatever Marinette was working on in one of her sketchbooks. The tall woman thought about the situation for a bit before wondering why Ms Rossi wanted so much attention on a necklace.

"Excuse me, Marinette, can I ask you a question?" Everyone in the science classroom turned to see Miss Buster standing in the doorway with the rest of her class hovering behind her, some looking a little uneasy for some reason.

Ms Mendeleiev placed her knuckles on her hips when she scolded her fellow teacher for allowing a delay in the school schedule, then asked, "Any question you ask Ms Dupain-Cheng you also have to ask me, since this class is already late."

Caline looked uncomfortable before she asked the bluette, "Marinette, can I look in your bags for a quick second?"

Marinette subconsciously gripped her sketchbook when she asked in an uncharacteristically suspicious tone, "Why?" Tikki carefully poked her head out of Marinette's purse to see what was going on and to see if she needed to quickly move out of the purse if needed.

Ms Mendeleiev took a glance at the students behind her co-worker to see the looks on their faces. The only one who didn't look uneasy about this whole thing was Ms Rossi. That certainly made the science teacher suspicious of this situation.

Caline somewhat hugged herself when She said in a more uneasy tone that she tried to pass in an authoritative voice, "I just need a quick look."

Marinette shook her head when she stated, "Unless I know the reason behind this, no one but me is going through my stuff." It wasn't because she wanted to be uncooperative or her suspicions about the sudden need to search her things, it was because she didn't like people going through her things. And given what has happened in the past, she had every reason to. Plus the fact that she also had a Kwami she had to keep hidden is why she didn't want anyone in her bags.

Ms Mendeleiev folded her arms when she stated, "And considering that this is my classroom, we will be going by my class rules." She narrowed her eyes at her co-worker when she snapped, "State your reason for the action, give the facts to support it, and I'll be the judge to give the verdict of for or against."

Lila frowned at that, which four certain students of the group noticed. Though the liar quickly plastered a worried look on her face.

When Miss Bustier explained that Ms Rossi had accused Ms Dupain-Cheng of stealing her heirloom necklace, Marinette rolled her eyes when she vocalised in a tone that was a mix of aggravation, peeved, and a pinch of annoyance, "Oh, of course, she would." Chloe looked confused while Adrien was quick to defend the bluette.

Ms Mendeleiev kept her composure when she stated, "I assume you have some tangible or reasonable facts that would support that accusation." She then made a motion that emphasised 'Let's hear them'.

Miss Bustier did tell the science teacher the circumstantial evidence that does support the accusation. But they were that, circumstantial evidence. Even Miss Bustier didn't quite believe what she was saying, something Ms Mendeleiev noticed easily.

The science teacher narrowed her eyes when she stated, "It sounds like there was a rather narrow window for Ms Dupain-Cheng to search someone else's bag, find an item, decide to take the item, and then move everything back in place before returning to her seat to pretend nothing had happened." She glanced at the bluette in question before stating, "There's also the issue of a lack of motive for her to steal an item she doesn't need or can use." Ms Mendeleiev made an obvious glance at Lila when she added in a stern tone, "And before anyone can comment on being jealous, think carefully, has Ms Dupain-Cheng ever taken things out of that emotion."

Miss Bustier's class had to admit that the science teacher made a good point.

With that, Ms Mendeleiev stated, "Since you've failed to give a solid reason to support that claim, there will be no bag searching."

Lila did not like that response, so she pulled out the crocodile tears as she continued to claim that Marinette took her heirloom necklace. But the science teacher stood her ground and told the brunette to stop causing a scene. Marinette gripped her purse strap as well as the sketchbook.

Alya quickly asked the bluette, "Hey, would it be okay for us to check your locker." When Marinette glared at her, the blogger immediately threw her hands up in a defensive manner when she added in a wiry tone, "Just to put Lila's mind at ease and to show her that you wouldn't steal her things. We won't let her in your locker, we'll just open it and let her look in."

Somewhat splitting her glare between Alya and Lila, Marinette stated in a very stern tone, "Fine," then snapped before anyone could say anything, "On a few conditions!" The conditions were as follows... 1st, Lila DOES NOT get within an arm's length of the locker. 2nd, Rose would be the only one to touch the locker. And 3rd, return to this class and apologise for holding up the lesson plan. Ms Mendeleiev did add the conditions of the tardy students doing some extra homework and writing formal apologies to Ms Dupain-Cheng for their false accusations.

'God, she's making this too easy,' Lila sneered with pride as everyone agreed. Alya elbowed the brunette and mourned her to agree with the conditions. Lila happily agreed, thinking that it wasn't going to happen.

Alya, Rose, Mylene, Sabrina, Juleka, and Miss Bustier left with Lila to head towards the locker area as the rest of the class trooped into Ms Mendeleiev's classroom. The science teacher was quick to say, "I was being serious about the homework, and I want it turned in by the end of the week." All the class nodded before all went towards their destination.

Alix flopped into her seat when she stated with a click of the tongue, "Not to bad-mouth a classmate, but why is Lila so adamant that Marinette took her necklace?" She glanced at the bluette in question when she threw in, "I mean, as soon as Miss B mentioned that you were alone in the classroom with her things she immediately assumed that you took it."

Marinette blinked in confusion when she asked, "She left her bag in the classroom? When?"

Nino raised a brow when he said, "At lunch, you stayed behind in the class." He tilted his head to the side when he asked, "Didn't you see her bag while you were there?"

Marinette shrugged before she stated, "I was busy working on a commission to notice if anyone left their stuff in the classroom or not."

Kim let out a sigh when he stated, "Mari, you agreed that you wouldn't get all hyper-focus on the commission if you worked on it at school."

Marinette huffed playfully when she said, "Don't worry, I ate lunch."

Ms Mendeleiev debated on whether or not she should start the class lesson anyway. She didn't want to sabotage the rest of the class's chances of learning, but the lesson was already late to start. The science teacher glanced to the side when she thought, 'Ms Rossi is eating up her class's lesson plan on top of false accusations.' But it made her wonder why Lila wanted to accuse Marinette of the thievery. 'Even if they didn't get along, an accusation like that is a little much,' Ms Mendeleiev thought, trying to find some logic to this situation. She tried comparing Marrinette's interactions with Chloe and her interactions with Lila. Both were very similar, yet there was one thing that differed. Chloe would be snarky about it but has started getting along better with Marinette. Lila, on the other hand, would turn on the tears to deflect blame and has been steadily getting into a worse and worse relationship with Marinette, which has also caused a strain on their friendship with Alya.

Ms Mendeleiev frowned at the oddly stark contrast between the two girls' relationship with Marinette. There had to be some missing facts in this...

Suddenly, the door to the classroom slammed open, causing everyone inside to jump out of their skin. They snapped their heads towards the door to see a fuming Lila standing there.

"Ms Rossi!" Ms Mendeleiev snapped in annoyance when the information sunk into her brain, and then got out, "What is the meaning of this?!"

Lila didn't seem to hear the teacher as her eyes locked onto a still shocked Marinette as she sheathed out, "YOU!"

"Me?" Marinette got out with an unsure squeak, still somewhat in that state of shock.

Lila stormed over to the bluette When she snapped, "You have it! I know you do!" She snatched Marinette's bag before the bluette could react. Lila turned the bag upside down, dumping everything that was inside onto the ground and shook it so every item fell out.

Everyone in the classroom stared at this in utter and complete shock, even Marinette. Though the bluette was feeling anger creeping up faster than she would've liked.

Lila growled as she realised that what she was looking for wasn't in the bag before her attention went to Marinette's purse. Before anyone could do anything, Lila lunged for the purse. Marinette was only able to grab a hold of the purse strap and keep her grip on it, starting a tug-o-war between the two girls. Lila was trying to yank the purse away from its owner while the said owner was trying to pull the purse back by the strap.

"Lila! What the hell!" Kim exclaimed as the rest of the class rushed in with flabbergasted looks on their faces.

Ms Mendeleiev moved towards the girls when she snapped, "Ms Rossi! Release Ms Dupain-Cheng's purse at once!"

Without any warning, the chains keeping the purse strap attached to the purse broke, no longer able to handle the tension of being pulled in different directions. Both girls went flying backwards. Lila landed on the ground with her prize in hand while Marinette fell out of her seat and nearly nailed her head on the desk behind her. Luckily, Adrien managed to catch her before her head could make contact.

The blonde model could only have a brief moment of relief while the realisation of what happened sank into Marinette's brain before the sounds of more things being dumped on the ground reached their ears.

Marinette could feel her stomach drop to her feet as she, and Adrien scurried to standing just in time to see Lila holding the bluette's purse upside down with ALL the contents spilt out. For everyone to see.

"LILA!" Alya shouted as soon as she saw this before getting out in a bewildered tone, "What the hell?! Why would you do that?!"

Tikki kept as still as possible as she lay on the ground, practically praying that this was a dream as Lila shifted through all the other items on the floor as she snapped, "She has my necklace! I know she does!"

Ms Mendeleiev had enough! She stomped over to Lila, grasped her by the right forearm, yanked her to her feet, and snapped, "Ms Rossi! Even if Ms Dupain-Cheng did take your necklace, you had no right to snatch her bags out of her possession and dump everything in them on the ground!" The science teacher hauled the brunette to the side as she looked over all of the belongings on the ground before stating in a peeved tone, "Which from what I'm seeing, is a false accusation!" Ms Mendeleiev turned her attention back on Lila when she stated in a stern tone, "I expect you to write a formal apology that is no less than 200 words to Ms Dupain-Cheng that you Will be reading to the class. In your words, turn it in by tomorrow, and I will check to make sure that it is an apology. No exceptions."

During this Marinette rushed around the desks to her bags and quickly started gathering up all of her things. Tikki remained still as she nervously waited for the bluette to put her back in the purse or her bag. Kim, Nino, and Adrien were quick to rush in to help, but Marinette gave them the death stare.

'Oh, Shit! She's pissed/mad!' the three boys thought when they saw, somewhat backing away.

That was when Adrien noticed Tikki. 'Is that?' the blonde model thought before he watched the bluette scooping the little red being up and carefully tucking her into her outerwear pocket.

Lila pointed at Marinette when she exclaimed, "But! She took my grandmother's necklace!"

As Marinette tucked her broken purse into her school bag, she glared at the liar when she hissed out angrily, "I did not take your stupid necklace!" She stood up when she growled out, "I don't know what the hell you were trying to accomplish, but frankly, I don't want to know! Just stay away from me and leave me the hell alone!" Marinette then stormed over to her seat, snatched her sketchbook, and stomped to the back of the classroom. She then took a seat in one of the free spaces and started trying to calm herself down.

}I{ Hawkmoth's Lair }I{

The circular window opened, causing the white butterflies to scatter at the sudden flow of light.

Hawkmoth cackled in an evil glee when he got out, "Yes! Yes! Yes! Marinette Dupain-Cheng is absolutely furious! Oh! And rightfully so!" He held out a hand for a white butterfly to land on when he said with almost a malicious smile, "About time that little spy got her mad."

The villain covered the butterfly with his other hand and focused the negative energy on it. The butterfly turned black with a purple highlight. The corrupted butterfly then took off when Hawkmoth said in an evil glee, excited that his chance of a masterpiece had finally come, "Fly away my horrible little Akuma and darken her heart! Turn Marinette Dupain-Cheng into the perfect tool for me to use!"

With that, the little Akuma flew out the small opening of the round window made for the butterflies towards its target.

}I{ Meanwhile }I{

After their bust at the Italian Embassy, Bella and Laura decided that since they still had time before Dupont let out, they would be a little more thorough in their investigation. They thought that maybe Mrs Rossi did work at an Embassy, just not the Italian Embassy.

They had to use some connections that their older sister, Lily, had to get into and talk to the Heads of the British Embassy, the American Embassy, and the Romanian Embassy. So Bella and Laura had a busy day of talking to the Heads, then going through their system for anyone with the surname of Rossi, and then checking their systems for any of their employees going on a week-long trip that was coming up soon.

All three Embassies had no one who matched Mrs Rossi.

But they did learn something during their visit to the Romanian Embassy. Unfortunately, it was even more information that suggested that Mrs Rossi wasn't who she claimed to be.

The Head of the Romanian Embassy asked to check the work email the two PIs had for Mrs Rossi, to hopefully check it against the connected work system that the Embassies had. Since it would help them find the woman, the two gave the Head the email. But the Head seemed confused when she saw the email and asked for the work email of Mrs Rossi. The two private investigators were confused by this. Laura told the Head that that was the work email that the school had on file.

The Romanian Embassy Head flipped the paper around and explained that anyone with a government job would have a work email that ends with dot gov. She pointed at the end tag for the email Mrs Rossi had when she said, "This email has a dot org end tag. That means that this isn't an email for a professional government job."

Bella slapped a hand to her head when she exclaimed in shock, "That's what felt off about the list! The work email!" She turned to her sister when she explained, "The email did not match the job that Mrs Rossi claimed to have!" The purplette ran a hand through her hair when She added, "Lily told me about the end tags for emails last month. I can't believe I missed that!"

The Romanian Head handed the paper back when she said, "It is an understandable mistake. We use emails so often that people overlook what is at the end of them." She showed the two PIs out when she told them, "Whoever this Rossi person is, I would assume that she's going to be in very big trouble once you find her."

Laura folded the paper with the fake contact information and pocketed it as she said, "If not with the School Board, the Police will have some legal issues with her." Bella had to agree.

The Head bid them goodbye before telling them to say hi to Lily for her.

The two PIs waved goodbye as they checked the time. It would probably be a good idea to head to Dupont, maybe they should call the Headmaster on the way to give him an update.

}{ At Dupont }{

Damocles hung up the landline with a puzzled expression on his face before he picked up a pen and wrote something on a piece of paper. When he finished, he placed the writing implement down before he tapped his chin in thought.

That was when the phone suddenly rang.

Damocles answered it on the third ring. He did his usual introduction at the Headmaster of Dupont. And he was surprised that it was one of the two Drac-U-Allies investigators, again. By this point, Damocles outright asked, "What have you found out about Mrs Rossi since your last call?" This is when he learned that not only was the work email Mrs Rossi gave them not a real work email, but she didn't have any type of government job. At least with an embassy. Damocles couldn't help but admit the two PIs had a productive day. Laura simply told the Headmaster that they were just being thorough and wanted to eliminate any possible doubt that may come up. Damocles could understand that and told them that he'll send them a photo of Lila Rossi so they could follow her home.

Laura's uneasiness could be heard over the call when she said, "Understood."

The moment the call ended, Damocles went to his computer to compile an email to attach the school picture of Lila and send it to the Drac-U-Allies email. Once he finished the task, he glanced at what he wrote earlier. Damocles couldn't help but wonder what Mrs Rossi is trying to accomplish by lying to the school and convincing her daughter to lie to them too. He then thought, "All this is doing is accumulating legal issues.

}I{ Ms Mendeleiev's Classroom }I{

Lila was utterly frustrated! Her plan to frame that goody-goody for the theft fell apart at the seams. And worst yet! Not only is her necklace actually missing but she had to write a formal apology to that goody-goody and then have to read it out loud to the class! How humiliating!

Ms Mendeleiev narrowed her eyes at the Italian student after she scanned the class to make sure everyone was doing what they were supposed to. The science teacher was going over these new facts, and noted how much it revealed about the difference between how Lila and Chloe reacted to an apparent 'theft'.

From what Ms Mendeleiev heard, Chloe's accusation had a more solid reason to be made. Marinette was the last person near her bag before the item 'disappeared', she knew where it was, and did have the motive to take the item. However, the item was found after an Akuma under Chloe's desk, to which everyone assumed that it fell out of the bag. Chloe did apologise to Marinette later, in her own way.

But from what Ms Mendeleiev learned about this incident with Lila. There was a very small window of opportunity for Marinette to take that item, the bluette didn't seem aware that Lila even had the necklace in her bag, and The brunette seemed overly adamant that Marinette took it... 'Hm, she seemed a little too sure that Ms Dupain-Cheng had her necklace...' the science teacher thought suspiciously.

In the back, Marinette was reading her science book, still a little peeved at what happened. Not only was her purse broken, but the wretched liar dumped all her things out where everyone could see. Thank goodness Tikki kept still to pass as a toy. Marinette glanced at her left pocket to see the red Kwami looking up at her as she patted her side. The bluette knew she was going to have to add some locks to her bag when she got home and keep an eye on her things while she was still there. She knew that Lila was planning something and wouldn't put it past her to try something again.

Suddenly, something whizzed past Marinette's head.

It took a few seconds for the bluette to register what happened. But when she did, she looked up to see an Akuma trapped inside a transparent lunch container, and Ms Mendeleiev was holding the container tightly shut. It slowly sank into Marinette's head what had transpired and almost fell out of her chair when she tried to back away from the butterfly.

Ms Mendeleiev let out a breath she didn't realise she was holding, glad she got to the little creature before it could reach its target. 'Adrenalin is an amazing chemical inside the human body,' the science teacher thought in relief. Thanks to that particular surge through her body, she was able to act as quickly as she did. Ms Mendeleiev gave the bluette a small smile before she said, "One crisis avoided and I now have a nice little test subject to experiment on later." She nodded when she told her students to continue with their tasks as she returned to her desk with the trapped Akuma in hand.

The next thing everyone knew, the Akuma turned white. Ms Mendeleiev clicked her tongue before saying, "So, Hawkmoth can purify his butterflies without Ladybug interfering." She shrugged her shoulders as she made a detour to an empty aquarium and essentially released the little white butterfly into the tank before closing the breathable lid to prevent it from escaping. The science teacher figured that she would at least help her find out what kind of butterfly Hawkmoth used.

Marinette let out a sigh of relief as she returned to her original seating position. That was when she noticed a piece of paper next to the book she was reading and there were writings on it in black that were not in her handwriting. The bluette blinked at it before glancing at her seatmate.

Max was eyeing her before he glanced at the paper and looked back at her.

Catching onto what the other wanted, Marinette quickly glanced around the classroom to make sure everyone was occupied before she quietly moved the paper so she could read what was on it a little better.

"Are you still feeling aggravated?"

Marinette glanced at the techie before she rolled her eyes in a 'what do you think?' manner.

Max subtly moved the paper back and wrote something on it. Soon he slid the paper back, also subtly. Like before, Marinette carefully moved the paper so she could read what was on it.

"I can't fault you for your current emotion. However, I cannot help but think that the whole thing seemed... Weird."

Marinette raised a brow after reading that before writing down her reply in red. She carefully slid the paper over to her seatmate. Max carefully slid the paper closer to read what the bluette wrote in red.

"What do you mean by 'Weird'? I know mine is that 'outburst' and her dumping my things in front of everyone."

Max certainly didn't expect that to be the bluette's response. He quickly and quietly wrote something on the paper before subtly sliding it to the bluette. Marinette subtly moved the paper so she could read what was on it. The bluette was relatively surprised at what the techie wrote.

"While that is a rather interesting and somewhat concerning comment, the 'weird' I was referring to was how 'adamant' Lila was about you taking her necklace despite the rather narrow timeframe you could have had the chance to search her bag for her necklace."

Marinette raised a brow as she read the sentence again. She wrote her response before she quietly slid the paper over to the other. Max read the paper and narrowed his eyes at the response.

"Why would she keep her necklace inside her school bag? It would've not only gotten tangled up but it would have also gotten caught on the other items in there. Anyone who wears any type of jewellery would either wear them or keep them in a smaller bag to make them easier to find. Plus, since she hasn't bragged about it in a while, I figured she was keeping it at home."

Max carefully flipped the paper over to prevent any noise and wrote his response. He carefully slid the paper over to the bluette with his eyes still narrowed.

"So, you weren't aware that Lila's necklace was even in her bag? And from your comment earlier, you didn't seem aware that her bag was left in Miss Buster's classroom during lunch."

Marinette read the paper before writing her response. She slid the paper back carefully to avoid anyone knowing. Max wasn't surprised by what he was reading.

"No, as I wrote prior, the last time I thought she had it was when she bragged about it. After that, I figured she kept it at home. And as for her bag, I was too busy working on a commission to even notice if anyone left anything in the classroom. Plus, you know I wouldn't go through anyone's belongings without their permission and like hell, I would want to look through Lila's bag!"

Max carefully slid the paper into his binder before quietly taking out a new clean piece of paper. He wrote something on it before quietly and subtly sliding it over to the bluette. Marinette quickly read what was written.

"I figured as much. However, the oddest issue is that whole thing with your bags. Lila appeared convinced that you had the necklace, which is different from her earlier behaviour regarding her accusation. True, She seemed to 'set up' the line of thinking that you might've taken her necklace, but she seemed willing to apologise if she was wrong and she was pretty compliant when Alya suggested searching your locker. By that logic, she should have returned to the class and apologised for her claims, however, the opposite happened and you saw how she acted."

Marinette had to re-read that three times to understand what Max had written. She glanced at him, looking for some kind of confirmation of what was being implied. But all she could see was a serious narrowed look in the techie's eyes. Marinette quickly but quietly wrote her response before sliding the paper back. Max took the paper and was not surprised by what the other wrote.

"Wait! Are you implying that Lila! Planted her necklace in my locker and got pissed when she didn't see it in there?!"

Max glanced at Marinette, who was trying to suppress her shock, and gave a quick nod before he wrote on the paper. He quietly slid the paper over to the bluette. Marinette took the paper and read what was written.

"From what I've noticed, Lila only stuck her hand in her school bag right before she claimed that her necklace was missing, then she steered the focus to it being taken out of her bag, and then fished for a moment Miss Bustier said you were alone in the class with her bag. Since she seemed more than fine with everyone searching your locker, I can assume she managed to slip her necklace into it when no one was looking. And judging by how she acted when she stormed in, it is likely the necklace wasn't where she left it and assumed that you took it out of your locker in either an attempt to deflect her accusation or you thought it might've been a gift from one of our friends."

After Marinette read that, she felt like her insides turned to stone. Her mind was racing, trying to comprehend what Max was essentially telling her. But no matter how you slice it all it leads to one thing that made the bluette glad that Hawkmoth already sent out an Akuma.

Lila... Tried to set Marinette up for a crime... Something that would no doubt go on her permanent record and possibly ruin all her friendships with her classmates!

In somewhat of a shaky hand, Marinette wrote her response before sliding the paper back to Max. The techie read what was written. He wasn't surprised by the response.

"Okay, since the necklace wasn't where she planted it and I certainly don't have it, then that means that someone else went into my locker and took it. Possibly either thinking that it was mine or thought they would borrow it and return it before I noticed it was missing... But for Heaven's sake! What the fudgy hell did Lila think I did to warrant her setting me up like that?!"

Ms Mendeleiev watched the pair in the back exchange notes and simultaneously made sure the rest of the class was reading and Lila was writing that apology. Under normal circumstances, the science teacher would have called it out and tell them to pay attention to the class. However, given what happened earlier... Ms Mendeleiev wasn't as heartless as some of her students claim, she knew the bluette needed someone to "talk" to. Though judging by the looks on both Max's and Marinette's faces, the science teacher had a hunch about what they might be talking about. 'And I'm going to have to ask Mr Kante for copies of that conversation for the Lila Rossi file,' Ms Mendeleiev thought as the class continued.

Max slid a new paper to Marinette with his latest response.

"You tell me. Is there anything besides the callouts over the lies that might get under her skin?"

Marinette took a deep breath before thinking about the question and then writing down her response. She slid the paper back to Max. He raised a brow at the response.

"Other than her lying about all her connections and leading everyone on, there is the fact that she CAN NOT KEEP HER HANDS OFF ADRIEN! Seriously, how is it that none of you noticed how uncomfortable he is when Lila is clinging to him every chance she gets? Chloe and I couldn't have been the only ones to see that."

Max glanced at Marinette at this. Flicking his eyes from her to the paper and back at her. The bluette narrowed her eyes as she subtly pointed at the paper. Max looked at the paper before writing his response and then sliding the paper to Marinette. The bluette moved the paper so she could read what was written.

"Funny you should bring that up. After the incident in Mr Harprele's class, the guys talked to Adrien. about that very issue. I will not write down what we learned due to both promising Adrien that we wouldn't and the fact that there is a 96.34% chance of you blurting it out in shock and anger. However, I can assure you that we guys will ensure that Lila won't cling to Adrien at every interaction during school hours. Though I have no idea how this will be possible at the photoshoots without drawing Lila's suspicions. Now, anything else that might have gotten under Lila's skin?"

Marinette raised a brow at what she read, thought about what she now knew, and then wrote her response before sliding the paper back to the other. Max read what was written.

"Okay, good to know that you guys are trying to help Adrien. I won't ask about what you learned out of respect for Adrien's privacy and trust your judgement, even if it does sound worrying. But as for Lila... Other than me calling out her lies and Adrien... I honestly can't think of anything I've done that could have gotten on Lila's enemy list. I mean, aside from me avoiding her like the plague when I can, but that's kind of the reason why I can't think of why Lila would set me up like that, especially on THAT level."

Max narrowed his eyes at this before tucking the paper in his binder and taking out a clean sheet. He quickly and quietly wrote down his response before sliding it to the bluette. Marinette moved the paper closer to read the writings.

"You really can't think of anything? Have you called her any names other than a liar? And before you ask, Yes, I will be looking into the stories Lila told us when I get home and share what I know with the guys. I am 79.837% Sure that the other female classmates will not budge from Lila's side unless there is more concrete proof of Lila being dishonest with them."

Marinette couldn't help but feel a bit relieved at this before she wrote her response. She then slid the paper to the other, who read it immediately.

"Okay, on the one hand, I'm glad that you're not just brushing this off and looking into Lila's 'stories', but on the other hand... I honestly can't think of anything other than the callouts and Adrien... Neither of which are big enough for any kind of set-up..."

Max had to pause and reread what was written. He raised a brow at this as he wrote his reply and then slid the paper to the bluette. Marinette moved the paper so she could read it.

"What do you mean by 'brushing this off'?"

Before Marinette could even think to reply, the bell rang. The bluette quickly shoved the paper to the techie, who then slid it into his binder before anyone could see it.

Ms Mendeleiev announced as everyone started packing up to leave, "I want the homework done and turned in by the end of the week." She looked directly at Lila when she stated sternly, "Ms Rossi, I expect that formal apology written and on my desk tomorrow, no exception and no excuses."

Lila tried not to look as annoyed as she felt when she stated in a forced tone, "Yes, Ms Mendeleiev," before shooting a not-so-subtle glare at Marinette, who glared back. She then stomped off before anyone could say anything.

As (most of) the confused classmates grabbed their things and started leaving, Ms Mendeleiev then stated, "Mr Kante, could you stay for a couple of minutes? I have some quick inquiries for you."

Max gave the science teacher a nod as he hung back as everyone else left. Kim gave the techie a wave while saying that he'll see him later.

Once the class was empty aside from the teacher and the techie, Ms Mendeleiev was straightforward when she stated, "Please follow me to the library to make copies of that conversation you had with Ms Dupain-Cheng." Max was shocked by this. Ms Mendeleiev folded her arms when she stated "Don't be so surprised that I noticed. I know what to look for in my class." She then motioned for the techie to follow while explaining that neither he nor Marinette was in trouble, but she would like to know what their conversation was about.

Max sighed before he followed the teacher. Even though he was curious about why Ms Mendeleiev wanted the conversation, he kept quiet. But given what happened earlier, he had an idea.

}I{ Outside Dupont }I{

Bella and Laura were standing near the school but out of the immediate view of the front entrance. Since they had to, unfortunately, follow a target, they wore more inconspicuous clothing. The purplette had her hair tied up in a braid and tucked under a hat, so her hair couldn't be easily seen. The two were patiently waiting for their target to leave, but it shouldn't be too long. Dupont would be letting out soon.

Laura held her phone up to see the image of Lila Rossi on the screen. The pink-and-black-haired girl raised a brow when she looked at her sister and said, "Well, at least she'll be easy to spot when we're trailing her."

Bella looked at the image, made a slightly cringed face, and said, "I know we're the last people to criticise hairstyles, but that just looks like she has a pair of sausages attached to her head." Laura couldn't help but nod in agreement.

The school bell rang. Signalling the end of the school day.

Both PIs kept their eyes on the entrance, waiting for their... Oh, boy, there isn't another word to use but target... Yeah, they still didn't like having to trail a teen, but they had to.

Soon, they spotted Lila walking out of the school.

"Perfect!" Both PIs whispered at the same time. The next thing they knew, their target was happily hugging a blonde boy's arm.

"Huh? Is that her boyfriend or something?" Laura asked with a raised brow.

As they watched the blonde boy cringe and try to pull away from a kiss Lila planted on his cheek, Bella commented, "From the way the cutie is acting, I don't think so." That was when a teenage boy in a red cap and blue shirt stepped in and told Lila something that distracted her enough for the blonde boy to tug his arm free. Bella then whispered to her sister as they saw Lila encircling the blonde's arm again. "She doesn't seem to be taking the hint. Should we note this and relay it to Damocles?"

Laura already had her camera out, snapping some pictures of the interactions, when she stated, "Might as well. The worst case is that the school's already aware of this, but there's no such thing as too much evidence." Bella had to agree with that.

The next thing the two PIs knew, a silver car pulled up and the driver came out. "What's Seras doing here?" Both girls got out when they saw their second oldest sister. The two glanced at each other before they watched their sister interact with the blonde, red-cap, and Lila. They couldn't hear what was being said, but from the expressions, the two PIs could guess it had something to do with the bodyguarding job Seras had, somewhat. Bella and Laura watched as Seras seemed to agree but from her body language, she apparently had a few conditions for whatever was said. Whatever those conditions were, the cute blonde seemed to like them while Lila didn't.

"Wait! What's going on?" Bella gasped when they saw Lila going into the silver car, then the blonde cutie. The red-capped teen waved at his buddy before the door was closed by Seras, who said goodbye to the teen as she quickly moved to the driver's seat. A minute later, the car drove off.

Bella and Laura looked at each other with a 'Now what?' expression.

}I{ With Damocles }I{

'I should have done this while trying to contact Mrs Rossi,' the Headmaster thought as he looked at Lila Rossi's file. More specifically, the part of it that had the information about and from her prior school. He raised a brow at what he was looking at when he thought, 'Odd? Did the school forget to add Ms Rossi's medical notes too?' Well, he was going to call the school anyway, he can ask them to email him those files. After he makes sure he gets The rest of Ms Rossi's file.

After he found the contact number for Lila's prior school, Damocles placed the file on his desk and inputted the number on the school's phone. The Headmaster held the receiver to his ear as he listened to the dial tone. He hoped there was someone still at that school.

It didn't take much longer for someone to answer. However...

"Hi," a seductive voice of a woman said before saying equally as seductively, "This is Abby Turnon of Lust Calling. How can I get you cumming~."

Damocles hung the phone up so quickly, he didn't even notice that the receiver left his ear. He just stared at the door to his office, blinking a few times as he tried to register what had just happened. Damocles gulped before he finally got out, "Oh, I, uh, must have miss-dialled the number." Yeah, that had to be it.

The Headmaster took a deep calming breath before he tried again, but typing in the numbers a little slower as he looked at the number on the paper and the buttons on the phone. Once he finished that, he waited patiently for someone to pick up on the other end with the receiver to his ear.

"Hi," a seductive voice of a woman said before saying equally as seductively, "This is Abby Turnon of Lust Calling. How can I get you cumming~."

Like before, Damocles hung up faster than it registered. Okay, he must've misdialed the number again... In the same way... Somehow... Well, it is possible! Unlikely, but possible.

Damocles took two deep breaths before trying again. This time he did one number at a time, looking at the contact information between each button pressed. Once that was done, the Headmaster held the phone's receiver to his ear and waited.

"Hi," a seductive voice of a woman said before saying equally as seductively, "This is Abby Turnon of Lust calling. How can I get you cumming~."

For the third time in a row, the receiver was back on the phone faster than Damocles realised it. He looked at the number on the contact information for Ms Rossi's prior school. There was no way he misdialed the same way this time, he pressed the number at a time as he looked at the information in front of him! Maybe someone wrote the phone number for that school wrong by accident?

Damocles was quick to pull up the school's website and immediately clicked on the 'contact us' tab. The Headmaster couldn't help but raise a brow at the layout of the website. True, everything was very easy to find and the images for the school looked nice but the layout looked a little blocky and basic. 'Guess, they had better things to spend their budget on,' Damocles thought as he looked at the school number on the 'contact us' page.

"What?" the Headmaster got out before he picked up the paper with the info and held it up so he could look at the phone numbers at the same time. "Identical?! That! That can't be right!" Damocles got out in disbelief. However, no matter how many times he looked at the phone number on both the paper and the screen, the two were identical!

Oh, he needed to inform that school of the error, asap! Thank goodness the email was right there.

Damocles quickly compiled an email to that school, explaining that the phone number on their website was to a, eh-hm, phone sex line and to contact him as soon as possible. With a sigh, the Headmaster sent the email. All he could hope for was a reply within the next day or so.

Except the reply came after a minute.

'That's... Not possible...' Damocles thought as he looked at the email... A Do Not Reply email... The Headmaster clicked on it to see the reason for that response. 'The email is no longer in service…' Damocles read with a confused look on his face.

The Headmaster leaned back in his chair with his hand to his chin, thinking over what he now knew.

Did the school close after Ms Rossi left? No, that wouldn't explain how the phone number ended up as a phone sex line so quickly...

Damocles looked at the phone number on the paper with a cringe. He didn't want to do it, but he needed to so he could be sure of that theory and confirm any information. After taking a few deep breaths, he picked up the receiver of the phone, making sure to press the 'call record' button before hitting the 'redial' button, and waited for the woman to pick up. Damocles hoped this would be quick and minimally uncomfortable.

"Hi," a seductive voice of a woman said before saying equally as seductively, "this is Abby Turnon of Lust calling. How can I get you cumming~."

Damocles cleared his throat before saying, in hopefully a somewhat Professional tone, "Um, uh, hello. I, uh, am not calling for, uh, that type of service."

"Oh?" the seductive voice got out before saying in that same tone, "What kind of 'service' do you need?"

Damocles could not suppress an unpleasant shiver before he said, "I just need to, uh, confirm some information regarding this particular phone number."

The seductive voice of the woman, who went by the stage name Abby, hummed before saying, "Odd thing to call us about, but if it gets you off then we can work something out."

Damocles stiffened before he got out in a rather flustered tone as his cheeks turned red, "M-madam! I am a Headmaster of a high school and I'm trying to contact a student's prior school!"

"Oh! I see!" Abby said in a happier tone in that seductive voice. She then asked in that same tone, "And you would like a little stress reliever before you call them, right?"

Oh! The Headmaster needed to stop that and get on track. So Damocles quickly got out, "The phone number for the school I am trying to contact is the number for your establishment!"

Abby dropped the seductive voice when she got out in confusion, "Wait? What! Is this some kind of joke?"

Damocles shook his head out of habit when he said, "I am afraid not. Your establishment's phone number is what we have in the student's file for their prior school. And before you ask, yes, I checked this school's website and the phone number on it is the same as the one in our file." He rubbed the back of his neck when he added, "I honestly thought I was inputting that wrong but I kept getting you despite me ensuring I was typing the number right."

That was when Abby said, "Oh, so you were that sudden hang-up caller." Damocles apologised for doing that. The woman replied, "If you were calling under the impression that you were calling another school and got me, then I can't blame you for that response."

Damocles apologised for hanging the phone up so suddenly those times before he asked, "So I have to ask, how long have you had this phone number?"

Abby's response came out in a serious tone, "It has been our number since the business started, 8 years ago. So unless someone is playing a not-so-funny joke on that school's end, That should have been caught and corrected almost immediately."

Damocles had to agree with that before he thanked Abby for confirming the information, bid her goodbye, and apologised for taking up her time. Abby told him that it was fine and that he was doing his job. Then the call ended.

The Headmaster placed the receiver back on the landline, effectively ending the 'call record' function. Well, that would be proof that he wasn't using a phone sex line for, eh-hm, that in case the school board wanted to go through the phone records. But that brought up another problem...

Damocles turned his attention back to the open file and wrote down what he had just learned on the page. The Headmaster narrowed his eyes when he finished when he thought, 'Why would she falsify the contact information for her daughter's prior school?' He then looked at his computer monitor and closed the email and looked at the 'school's website'. Now that the Headmaster knew that the contact information was fake, the site now looked... Off.

Damocles moved the mouse over the tab for the school's staff. The tab didn't glow nor did the mouse icon change to indicate that the tab had a hyperlink. Damocles's eyes narrowed again as he moved the mouse over the other tabs. The only ones that were 'active' were the ones linking to the homepage and the contact information.

Damocles paled as the information sank in. He quickly wrote this on the page in Lila Rossi's file, not believing how far Mrs Rossi was going to prevent the school from looking into her daughter's past schooling.

}I{ At the Photoshoot with Adrien and Seras }I{

"Ms Rossi! If you do NOT start following directions, then you are off the set!" Seras snapped in aggravation, not the least bit amused by the activities of the past two hours. Honestly, she thought that

The Gabriel staff were exaggerating how long Lila Rossi held up photoshoots. But here they are, an hour past the scheduled end time for the first photoshoot and they are still not even close to being done.

Why?

Lila Rossi just couldn't keep her hands off of Adrien despite being told point blank that she couldn't do it and was ignoring the Photographer's and Seras' orders. The brat kept citing her experience with Audrey the Style Queen and stating that the closeness of the models was the best way to show off the clothing.

Arg! You couldn't see either of the models' clothing with the way Lila was either clinging or dropping herself onto Adrien. And worse yet! The poor boy was obviously uncomfortable with the so-called 'attention' he was getting from the brunette!

Seras took a deep breath before she thought, 'Damn, guess it was a great call to use THIS prostatic.' She glanced at her cybernetic arm that was holding the tablet when she thought, 'But I didn't think I would get this much evidence on shoot number one.' Seras' eyes were back on her ward when she begrudgingly thought, 'Urg! Poor kid. He shouldn't have to put up with someone like Lila all the time.'

The bodyguard playing the part of driver and secretary then scrolled through the schedule on the tablet when she stated, "Ms Rossi, I don't give a rat's ass on things that have no relevance to the task at hand. My job is to ensure that Adrien's schedule is completed on time and he gets the most out of it." She shoots Lila a stern look when she says coldly, "And you are disrupting both and also sexually harassing Adrien. Which I have already reported to Mr Agreste, so either start acting like the professional model you claim to be and keep your hands off Adrien or ignore my warnings and get kicked off the set." Seras was glad Mr Agreste gave her that authority within his company to do that, but she would've still kicked the girl off the set even if she didn't.

Off to the side, pretending to be a part of the staff, Bella and Laura glanced at each other after their sister's little speech.

Yeah, the two snuck into the photo shoot and no one but Seras noticed them... On the one hand, that was good since it allowed them to keep an eye on their target. But on the other hand... They certainly didn't expect their job and their sister's job to cross paths like this or the... Uh, information that they were learning...

Laura leaned over to the purplette and whispered, "Hey, Bell, is it bad that I want Seras to kick her out?"

Bella whispered back, "Depends, do you want her to put the girl in her place or do you want the girl to head home so we can make some progress on the job?"

Laura shook her head when she said, "Neither to be honest. If it weren't for the fact that it would blow our cover, I probably would've ripped her off the poor boy. It hurts to watch."

Bella frowned when she replied, "You too, huh? But this is bringing up an odd issue." When Laura asked what it was, the purplette answered, "How come blondie hasn't told Lila to stop, back off, or voice his discomfort in general? The entire time we've been here. We've heard the staff and Seras tell her to stop clinging and touching him, but he hasn't made so much as a peep about it."

Laura realised the other was right, and she whispered back, "That's true. I mean, we know he's uncomfortable with the touching because he's visibly showing it, but shouldn't he also say something too?"

The two glanced at each other before quietly agreeing that they should ask Seras about it later.

Not even five minutes later, Seras told Lila to leave the set. Oh, the brunette dug her heels on that, not- so-casually dropping that she could get Gabriel to fire Seras. However, the blonde woman had her counter ready when she told Lila, "You can try but I have solid proof and more than enough witnesses that you were being both unprofessional and feeling up a fellow model who happens to be the big boss's son." She glared at a now scared Lila when she stated coldly, "Be thankful I have professionalism because if there's one thing I can't stand is sexual harassment of any kind and I would actually kick you off the set."

Both Laura and Bella knew THAT was true. Seras would certainly NOT hesitate to break an arm of a sexual harasser. They've seen it happen before.

Lila gulped at this. She was more afraid that the blonde woman wasn't bending to her whims than the threat of being reported for sexual harassment.

Seras pointed at the entrance/exit of the photoshoot with her right hand when she stated in a serious tone, "Next time you have a photoshoot, you better have a work-appropriate attitude and keep your hands off the other Gabriel staff."

Seeing as she no longer had a choice, Lila left with a scowl on her face. 'I need to get rid of that big-boobed bimbo,' She thought as she stomped toward the gate and started heading home. Already thinking of a plot to get that blonde woman fired.

Both Laura and Bella snuck away to continue their mission. Seras was the only one who noticed the two leave.

With a frown, the blonde woman thought, 'Thank goodness I'm not doing any job reviews. These people would've failed for not noticing Laura and Bella sneaking onto and off the set…' So, yeah, Seras was glad her younger sisters didn't get caught and she needed to talk to them later regarding how their jobs somehow overlapped. However, on a professional level, the lack of realisation that two people managed to sneak onto the set is a little worrying.

Vincent walked up to Seras when he said, "Wow, you really tore her a new one, and even sent the proof to the boss."

Seras raised a brow at this when She asked, "I have a very low tolerance to sexual harassers and I could care less about their titles, gender, or culture. But given how she acts and what you just said...Is there a reason why no one has alerted Mr Agreste to the sexual harassment? Especially since they involve his son."

While Adrien did feel oddly happy that Lila was gone, for now, his thoughts were circling back to what happened earlier and what he saw.

A Kwami... A Kwami fell out of Marinette's purse... And not just any Kwami, Ladybug's Kwami!

'Marinette is Ladybug...' Adrien thought, finally letting that information sink in.

"Hey, Kiddo," Adrien snapped out of his thoughts when he heard Seras call out to him. He looked at the Secretary/Driver before she stated, "You mind if I ask you a few questions before we start the next shoot?"

Adrien blinked before he said, "Uh, Sure... Ask away."

}I{ Back at Dupont }I{

Ms Mendeleiev waved Max goodbye when she said, "Thank you for your cooperation, Mr Kante. Have a safe trip home." Max returned the wave as he walked off. The science teacher then went back inside the school and headed straight towards the teacher's lounge. The Dupont Staff had an impromptu meeting regarding today's event. As she made her way to the teacher's lounge, Ms Mendeleiev read the 'conversation' between Max and Marinette. Her eyes narrowed at the part where the suspicion was that Lila planted evidence to get the bluette in trouble.

'So... They came to the same conclusion I did...' Ms Mendeleiev thought as she continued to read the 'conversation' right before she got to the door to the teacher's lounge, she paused completely when she came to the last line of the 'conversation'. Ms Mendeleiev reread the line before she wondered, 'I might have to talk to Ms Dupin-Cheng within the next few days and ask how she would think that something like that incident would be 'brushed off'?' she glanced to the side with narrowed eyes when she thought, 'And how often is Ms Dupain-Cheng 'brushed off'?'

Ms Mendeleiev folded the papers in half before she entered the teacher's lounge. The other staff, minus Fred, and the Headmaster were already there. The part-time teacher came in a minute later.

Soon, all the Dupont staff were sitting at the nice table. It was a little cramped, but they all were able to sit at the table.

Damocles cleared his throat before he stated, "Okay, as you know, this meeting is about the recent and ongoing issue regarding Ms Rossi." He looked at the papers in his hands when he asked, "Before we begin, is there anything anyone would like to add to this that pertains to Ms Rossi?"

Ms Mendeleiev, Miss Bustier, and Fred raised their hands when they said, "We/I do." The science teacher and redheaded teacher looked at the part-time teacher and he them. Fred motioned his hand at the two when he said, "Ladies first."

Ms Mendeleiev gave a nod while Miss Bustier smiled. The redheaded teacher then explained the event that happened barely an hour ago to the other staff members. The science teacher threw in her two Euros about it, as well as her displeasure with Ms Rossi's actions.

Fred was quick to ask, "Hang on, what did this necklace look like?" as soon as his two co-workers finished. Suspicion bubbled up in his gut the moment he heard about Lila's sudden mood change when Rose opened Marinette's locker.

Ms Mendeleiev raised a brow when Miss Bustier described the necklace, "It's a curled orange fox tail on a golden chain."

Fred narrowed his eyes when he asked, "Is there a white tip on the end of that fox tail?"

Now Ms Mendeleiev had both brows up when she asked, "And how would you know that?"

With that, Fred pulled the necklace in question out of his pocket and placed it on the table. All of the Dupont staff stared at the item for a good few seconds before Miss Bustier said in an unsure tone, "So Lila did misplace her necklace."

Fred folded his arms when he stated sternly, "Oh, she misplaced it all right. Right in Ms Dupain-Cheng's locker by her own hands."

"Say what?!" Miss Bustier gasped as Ms Mendeleiev scowled at this information. As she folded her arms, the science teacher stated in a rather disgusted tone, "So, THAT'S why she did a 180 after her trip to the locker room. She was expecting her necklace to be exactly where she left it and was enraged when it wasn't." Ms Mendeleiev looked at a still shocked Miss Bustier when she added, "Caline, I don't think the issue between Ms Rossi and Ms Dupin-Cheng can no longer be described as a 'misunderstanding'. The girl straight up planted evidence to frame another for a crime that never happened."

Miss Bustier had no rebuttal... No logical explanation... No possible reason for Lila to frame Marinette for something... All Miss Bustier could do was just stump back in her chair.

Fred then tapped on the necklace when he stated seriously, "I should also point out that this necklace can't possibly be an heirloom." when Armond asked why, Fred flipped the necklace over to the back was facing up when he stated, "Anyone recognise the logo?"

The rest of the Dupont staff leaned over the table to get a better look at the jewellery. When they all saw the familiar symbol, they all said almost at the same time, "The Gabriel Brand?!"

Ms Mendeleiev put the pieces together the fastest when she said, "So she lied about this being an heirloom, planted it in Ms Dupain- Cheng's locker, and lied about the thievery." She scowled when she almost snarled out, "Oh, that girl is going to get more than just writing a formal apology to read in front of her class! She is going to have detention for the rest of the School year!" Most of the others agreed.

The only thing Miss Bustier could get out was, "But... Why? Why would Lila do such a thing?" She just couldn't understand how one of her students could do something like that to a classmate. Couldn't imagine it ever happening...

The school medic was the one to ask, "Has anything happened between Ms Rossi and Ms Dupain-Cheng that would warrant such a ploy?"

The teachers racked their brains over that question for a good minute before any could give their answers. The call-outs over lies, which the teachers are going to have to start taking a little more seriously after today, and the interest in Adrien Agreste... And that was all the teachers were aware of... Neither of which was enough to plot a frame job.

Damocles grimaced when he got out, "Ms Mendeleiev, you may give Ms Rossi detention as soon as she comes in tomorrow. Caline, as Ms Rossi's homeroom teacher, I want you to keep notes of everything she does and says." Both teachers nodded, one sternly and the other not so enthusiastically. The headmaster sighed when he got out, "While I am not sure if this is a result of Mrs Rossi's possible neglect or if she is simply mimicking her mother, but every piece of information is crucial if we want to bring this to the school board and possibly the police." Both Fred and Ms Mendeleiev voiced their opinions about the Headmaster's theory. Both stated that most of Ms Rossi's actions are her own choices. Fred restates what he has seen and reported regarding Lila's interactions with Adrien.

Damocles raised his hand to silence the two before he said in a serious tone, "Hence why I also want the other staff members to keep an eye on Ms Rossi as well. Keep notes of her interactions with the others when you can. While I might believe that Ms Rossi may be the source of her daughter's behaviour, the choices made are on Ms Lila Rossi." He took a breath before he added, "She isn't getting off Scot-free, she will face the appropriate consequences, but only on her own actions. Not her mothers."

Fred and Ms Mendeleiev glanced at each other before they conceded to that logic. If Lila was going to get punished, it should only be for what she actively did... The science teacher took a deep breath before saying, "As of now, the only thing we can act on is the frame job. It is still a serious issue, and I am not changing my stance on the length of the detention."

Damocles nodded when he said, "I understand, and that is a fair punishment. However, inform Ms Rossi that she will not get her necklace back until the end of her detention term." Ms Mendeleiev let out a sniff before saying that it was fine. Damocles' eyes were on the papers in hand before he stated, "Now, onto what has been discovered regarding Mrs Rossi's contact information and the files regarding her daughter's prior schooling." He glanced up at his co-workers when he added, "The Drac-U-Allies uncovered more... Deceptiveness regarding the former."

}I{ With Laura and Bella }I{

Much to the two's annoyance, Lila did not go straight home. Instead, their target stopped at a nice-looking shoppe and bought something if the small bag was anything to go by. Then she went into a stationary shop and bought three posters. And then went into a fast food place to eat for easily 30 minutes.

Since Lila was in public and on public grounds, Laura took a few pictures of the brunette's activities. More so that they had something to recap on than for the school.

While they sat at a booth at a reasonable distance from their target in the fast food restaurant with their own order of chips and drinks, Bella checked her watch before she whispered to her sister, "Okay, this is getting a little weird." When Laura asked how so, the purplette replied, "While I don't know how long that photo shoot was supposed to last, she spent close to three hours just to get a few things." She pointed at the rolled-up posters when she added, "More than half of that time was for those."

Laura couldn't help but agree with her sister when she said to her, "True, she did spend a lot of time at that store..." She pulled out her pocket camera and quickly went through those particular pictures, while also keeping an eye on Lila. When Laura finished, she said in confusion, "Hm, right, she only looked through the posters in that store..." she looked at her sister when she asked, "Does she have a project to do or was she just being picky about what posters she wants in her room?"

Bella hummed as she took a sip of her drink before she said, "Either or, that's not our business." Laura frowned as she agreed with her sister.

After another five minutes, Lila finished her meal. She tossed her rubbish before leaving with her things, still unaware of the two PIs following her. And much to the two's annoyance, Lila went into another shop. Since it was a smaller shop, they opted to wait outside for their target. Was today Lila's errand day or something?

15 minutes later, Lila came out with another shopping bag that she seemed to be using to carry her other things. Then Lila went into a crystal shop.

"Oh for the love of!" Laura got out in annoyance when she saw their target going into the crystal shop.

That was when Bella noticed the sign over the store and voiced to her sister, "Hey, isn't that one of Greta's businesses?"

Laura blinked before she looked at the sigh and realised, "I think it is." The sisters looked at each other for a bit before agreeing that this was another weird coincidence before noting the time.

~}I{ At The Lahiffe Residence, Dinner Time }I{~

Nino was somewhat poking his meal, his mind replaying what happened earlier.

"Nino, you should know better than to play with your food, " Al commented as he placed more plates of food on the table. He eyed the teen when he asked, "Is there something on your mind?"

The red-capped teen stopped poking his food when he said, "I guess..." he looked at the blonde man when he stated flatly, "One being why you still have that gag gift Mum gave you." True enough, Al was wearing a frilly pink apron that had red words stitched onto the front that read, "Fang-tastic Food to Sink Your Teeth Into!" The silver-eyed man held up an edge of the apron when he said, "Gag gift or not, it is useful in the kitchen." He let the fabric drop back in place when he added, "Be thankful I don't plan on wearing it outside."

Chris snickered when he asked in a giddy tone, "Wait, did you just admit to wearing it when you're not cooking, Uncle A?"

Al pretended to think about that question before he said with a smile, "Depends on my mood." Chris let out a laugh as Nino smiled fondly. Al then folded his arms before he said, "But in all seriousness, did something happen at school today, Nino?"

Nino felt a little uneasy when he told his uncle-figure the incident with Lila and Marinette and how weird it seemed.

Al narrowed his eyes at this, wondering if it was a coincidence that this is the same Lila that Seras was researching, before he asked seriously, "Which bag pocket did Lila say her necklace was supposed to be in? Or rather, which section of her bag she was looking in?"

Nino blinked a few times as he thought back to that moment, and then said, "Uh, she had her hand in the main section..."

Al raised a brow when he asked, "She put her priceless family heirloom in the part of her bag where it could be scratched, bent, or tangled by her bigger and possibly heavier items?"

Chris couldn't help but comment, "That's kind of careless of her."

"You both are right..." Nino stated, now finding that a little weird. He then realised something else weird about Lila's actions with her bag before he said, "Not to mention that she was adamant that her necklace was in that part of her bag... She even commented that she didn't touch the smaller sections of her bag when she pointed out the zippers..."

Al sat at the table when he stated, "When you add that on top of Lila being so adamant that Mari took her necklace and the sudden anger after her trip to the lockers, what do these moments tell you?" Even though the blonde man was asking the questions, it sounded like he already knew the answer.

Nino put the pieces together in his head. His expression shifted from thinking to realisation and then to horrified. The red-capped teen then exclaimed, "Oh shit! Lila tried to frame Mari for theft!"

Chris gasped in shock when he called out, "I'm telling Mum that you used a curse word!"

Al raised a hand in a 'hold on a second' manner when he said, "Unless there is a legitimate reason to use them." He lowered his hand when he added in a serious tone, "And given the circumstances, I am sure Greta will understand."

Nino bit his left index finger before he said, "I have to tell the school! They need to know about it!"

Al narrowed his eyes as he raised a brow when he stated, "Nino, you said that Miss Bustier went with Lila and a few of your classmates to the lockers, correct?" the red-capped teen nodded. Al then stated, "And Ms Mendeleiev was unamused by Lila's actions, correct?"

Nino nodded when he said, "Understatement. Lila held up the class, made a 'false accusation', and caused a huge scene in her class that nearly caused an Akumatization. Unamused would not be a word I would've used to describe Ms Mendeleiev's reaction."

Al tapped the table with his right index finger when he stated, "I think your teachers already know. You can tell them tomorrow if you want. Though there is one part of your story that is bothering me."

When the two Lahiffe boys asked what it was, Al explained that if Lila was pushing to have Marinette's locker then that meant that she planted the necklace there. However, the necklace wasn't in the locker, hence why Lila lashed out at Marinette.

"So..." Nino got out before saying, "Someone else went into Mari's locker after Lila planted the necklace but before the search and took the necklace..."

Al placed a hand on his chin when he stated, "That's the only logical answer if it wasn't where Lila left it or in Marinette's possession..." He narrowed his eyes again when he said, "However, not only does this add a whole new issue to the scenario but also brings up a slew of questions. The biggest one is why they went into Marinette's locker?"

"This is one of the reasons why you're a private investigator, Al," a voice from the doorway suddenly said.

The guys turned to the door to see a somewhat tall woman with dark skin, with straight brownish-black hair that just covered her shoulders, cocoa brown eyes, thin nose, had on a gentle smile, wore a white shirt with a green vest paired with forest green form-fitting slacks, had on a pair of black knee-high boots with red straps at the top and some stylish straps along the boots to keep them in place, and a black belt with gold trimmings. Al got out, "Greta!" while Nino and Chris happily got out, "Mum!"

Greta smiled as she walked in when she said, "Thanks for making my boys dinner, Al. I appreciate it."

Al shook his head when he said, "Not a problem." As Greta sat at the table, he asked, "So how much of the conversation did you hear?"

Greta's face harden in seriousness when she stated, "Enough to know that Nino should no longer associate with Lila more than needed to get through the school day."

Nino Slumped when he said reluctantly, "Easier said than done... She's one of Alya's best friends." He glances to the side when he added, "Though I don't know for how much longer after today..."

Al then stated, "Well, after today, it should get Alya thinking about who she should keep in her friend group." He placed a hand to his chin before he asked, "If Lila was willing to pull a stunt as she did... Just how bad is her relationship with Marinette?"

Nino shrugged when he said, "Not bad enough to warrant a frame job." He then explained that Marinette just doesn't like Lila and calls out the brunette for lying, which by now, Nino is starting to think she might have a point. His mother asked if there was anything else. Nino thought for a bit before commenting, "Come to think of it... I know I talked about this with the guys, but Mari and Chloe have pointed out how uncomfortable Adrien is when Lila clings to him. Not just because of a crush and familial bond respectively."

Al blinked at that statement, remembering those specific words from this morning before he asked "Adrien as in Adrien Agreste?" It felt weird to the blonde man to be saying that name after all this time.

Nino nodded in confusion when he said, "Uh, yeah, he's my classmate and best bud... Didn't I tell you this before Uncle A?"

Al covered his mouth with his right hand, took a deep breath, then slid his hand off, and finally said as he rubbed his temples, "You might have but I think you never mentioned his surname..."

Chris was confused by his uncle-figure's actions and had to ask, "Uncle, is something wrong?"

Al took another deep breath before he asked Nino, "When little Agreste was dropped off and picked up... Was the driver a woman with messy sandy blonde hair, a prostatic left arm, and was rather..." He moved his hand over his chest, giving the idea of what he meant without saying it.

Nino blinked in shock when he asked, "Yeah, that's Ms Seras! Adrien's new driver and secretary!" He then looked confused when he asked, "Wait? How do you know her? And how did you know that she was his new driver?"

Al buried his face in his hands when Greta had an awkward look on her face when she said, "Oh! that wasn't how you wanted my boys to meet any of your siblings, Alucard." The blonde man grumbled out his agreement.

After getting over his shock, Nino asked, "Ms Seras is your sister?!"

Al rubbed his hands off his face when he stated in a disbelieving tone, "Yes... She's the oldest of my younger sisters..." He sighed before saying, "I learned this morning that her recent job was to, uh, what words did she use to summarise the job again? Ah, she was basically keeping Sunshine on schedule or something along that." He then realised something when he said as he placed a hand on his chin, "Hang on... Seras was doing a little research while she had some free time back at the office on a Lila Rossi..." Al eyed the oldest of the Lahiffe boys when he asked, "Is that the Lila you were talking about in today's event and her behaviours towards Sunshine?"

Nino was confused when he got out, "Uh, yeah, that's Lila's surname...Uh, why was Ms Seras researching her?"

Al bit his lips in uneasiness when he said, "Before I tell all of you this... First, we should eat dinner before it gets cold. After that's done, I'll tell you on the condition that neither Greta nor Nino uses or even touch either the sword or hammer."

Greta raised a brow when she said wirily, "Okay, now you have me worried..."

Nino couldn't help but add, "Same..."

Al sighed when he said, "Yes... But depending on how much you're already aware of... This might not be pleasant..."

Soon, the four started eating... In silence... After what has been revealed and might be revealed, none of them were eating as fast or enthusiastically as they wanted...

~}I{ With Laura and Bella }I{~

"Finally!" the loli-wearing girl said as she snapped a picture of Lila going into an apartment building. the purplette couldn't help but say, "Agreed, now let's see if we can find a few residents who might give us some information on the Rossis."

The two waited for a few more minutes before they calmly walked into the same building. Only one person around, but it made sense given the hour. Guess they're going to have to come back when Lila heads off to school. The two girls had to admit, the apartment lobby looked nice and comfortable. That was when they saw a rather familiar face behind the front desk, and that face was rather shocked to see both Bella and Laura.

The person was a young woman with skin with a blue tint that was possibly from some blush, big eyes with tiny pupils, her white hair was short with a blue streak that was worn in a sideways ponytail, and was wearing a simple light blue dress. Her eyes lit up when she waved the two over when she said with a high-pitch laugh, "Sibella! Draculaura! It's been a while!"

Both PIs placed their right index finger to their lips as both shushed the blue-wearing woman before they said together in a hushed tone as they closed the gap between them, "We're on a job! Don't blow our location!"

The woman in blue covered her mouth before she said in a softer tone, "Oh! Sorry ghouls, but you know how easily I get excited."

Bella fondly rolled her eyes when she said, "I know Phantasma, but we're trying to get information on a mother who lives here and we don't want them to know."

The woman in blue, Phantasma, blinked when she asked, "What's the surname of the mother? I can tell you if she lives here or not. Plus I can tell you what I know about them."

Laura raised a brow at this when she asked, "Wouldn't that get you in trouble with your boss?"

Phantasma giggled when she said, "Oh, That's not an issue because I own the building and manage the Place." She giggled again when she added, "So technically, I am the boss."

Bella was surprised by this, but quickly brushed that aside when she asked, "Well, if that's the case, then what can you tell us about the Rossis?"

Phantasma was a little taken aback when she asked, "Are you asking about Cecilia Rossi and her daughter, Lila?"

Well, now… That was an interesting reaction.

~}I{ At the Dupain-Cheng Residence }I{~

Marinette beamed happily as she finished off the first outfit for her current commission. She took a step back to admire her work.

Tikki floated next to her Holder when she said, "Wow! that looks amazing!" The Kwami was feeling a lot better after the disaster and near discovery that happened at school, and better yet, Marinette was in a positive spirit.

The bluette took a deep breath and exhaled it calmly. "Maman was right. Not only do I feel a lot better but I got a lot done." Tikki hugged her Holder's cheek at this.

When there was a knock on the hatch to her room, the Kwami quickly hid before Marinette told whoever was on the other side to come in. Tom Dupain came up with a small tray of snacks When he said, "I thought I would bring you something to eat and see how you're doing." He placed the tray on a free section of desk space when he asked, "Mind if I see the project?"

Marinette nodded as she moved to the side so her father could see when she said, "I got the first of Mr D's commissions done and it helped me calm down a lot."

Tom smiled at the work and the news when he hugged his daughter and said, "That's great honey!" Marinette giggled when she added. "I got that done after I added a few extra features to my bag and fixed as well as updated my purse."

The smile faded off of Tom's face when he released his daughter and asked, "Can I see those features and updates before you think about bringing them to school tomorrow?"

Marinette pointed at the work desk when she said, "Don't worry papa, they're nothing major. Just locks and a few extra designs." Tom inspected the school bag, and sure enough, there were a few stylish-looking flower locks connected to a zipper on the bag and a few new flower decors on it. He then looked at the purse. The strap was expertly re-attached and the main compartment had a cute little pink butterfly lock also connected to a zipper on it.

Tom let out a sigh of relief before he turned to Marinette when he said, "I know you wouldn't purposefully make your things dangerous, but you have gone a little overboard with protecting your stuff in the past." He eyed the booby-trapped box with the diary innocently sitting in it on her nightstand.

Marinette noticed before she said, "Point taken, even if it turned out to be the right call." She sighed before she added, "My intent wasn't to hurt anyone, but I understand that it could have. And it could get me in trouble if I bring something like that to school."

Tom was firm yet gentle with his daughter when he said, "I understand that you have a right to keep your things safe in something while at school, but you can't modify it in a way that could hurt others." He sighed when he said, "No matter how much you want to, especially after today..."

Marinette folded her arms as she hunched her shoulders when she stated sourly, "If it weren't clear enough before, it is now. Lila hates me. No ifs, ands, or buts about it." She narrowed her eyes when she added, "I don't know who took Lila's stupid necklace, but it wasn't me no matter how much she wails and claims I did." She growled before saying, "I already put in a request for a new locker, one that can be locked. Gah! Having two people going into my locker without my permission on the same day is more than enough of a reason to get a new locker!" She huffed before adding, "Thank goodness I don't keep anything important in it or I would've been even more pissed."

Tom hugged Marinette to calm her down when he said, "Sweetie, you knew your locker wasn't a safe place for those and you made the right choice, not to store important items in it."

Marinette leaned into her father's embrace when she said, "I just... Just want to feel like I can have some measure of security while at school... The locks on my bags are to make me feel better and to keep that lying bitch out of my things so she can't do another frame job!"

Oh! that was a concerning comment to the father. It would be obvious what he will be doing tomorrow. After Tom informs his other half of the comment, of course.

~}I{ Meanwhile }I{~

Lila was on her computer, making a few more edits to that picture she took of that goody-goody with that older guy. Making sure that there was absolutely no way for anyone to think that the interaction between the two could be seen as innocent.

Lila smirked as she looked over her three copies of that image with each one having different words typed underneath. Her plan was absolutely foolproof! Not only would that goody-goody be the social outcast but she will be expelled from school and her parents' business will go under!

Lila leaned back in her chair already picturing the outcome of this plan that couldn't possibly fail. She smirked when she thought, 'Ha! The only problem with this would be having to wait to put it in motion!' She was so enthralled in that fantasy, that she completely forgot about the apology she was supposed to write.

~}I{ At The Same Time }I{~

Fred was telling Mylene that she needed to be careful around Lila, especially after today. The timid girl was understandably upset that Lila tried to frame Marinette, but the thing she couldn't understand was the reason why. Fred couldn't give his daughter an answer to that.

However, this was more of a motivation for Mylene to protect her classmates.

}I{ Meanwhile, In a "Dude's Only" Chat Group }I{

Turntables: "Dudes of Miss B's class! You aren't going to like what I just learned about Lila!"

Maximum Overdrive: "I have reviewed what Lila has told us in the past, and I too do not have pleasant news regarding that."

Anything's Possible: "Uh, okay? How about both of you type out what you found out and we'll just wait to read it."

Teddy Bear: "Okay, that is worrying…"

LB Artist: "Something worse than what happened today?"

Turntables: "Understatement in a way."

~}I{ In Marinette's Room }I{~

The bluette was taking a break by watching a few episodes of one of her favourite Canadian animated shows on her computer. Well, it was more accurate to say that Marinette was watching the show so she would go to sleep with a positive feeling. Tikki was sitting in front of the Keyboard as she watched the screen with her Holder.

Suddenly, there was a tapping noise was heard from the balcony window.

Marinette paused the video as Tikki hid behind the monitor. The bluette turned to see who was there but given the hour the possibility of who was limited. The moment her eyes landed on the window, she wasn't that surprised when she saw Chat Noir waving at her from the balcony. The bluette rolled her eyes fondly as she got up from her chair and walked over to the window. Marinette opened the window when she greeted, "Hey, Chat, what brings you here tonight?" The black-clad hero gave her a cattish grin when he said, "I was on patrol in the area, so I figured I'd drop by one of my favourite people to say hi."

Marinette raised a brow in amusement when she teased, "Don't tell Ladybug that, she might get jealous," as she stepped to the side to let the hero in.

Chat Noir carefully took a step in when he said, "I'm sure she wouldn't mind. Besides, I'm allowed to like hanging with other people." But he couldn't help but think, 'Though I'm not sure if it counts if two people are the same person.' His eyes landed on the outfit in the corner of the bedroom. Chat Noir couldn't help but let out a whistle before saying, "Wow! What's the upcoming event to go with that pretty thing?" The blonde teen was impressed that the bluette got the outfit from her Sketchbook made so quickly and well.

Marinette looked at the outfit she made when she explained, "Not sure, it's part of a commission set that a client wanted for an upcoming event." She smiled when she added, "He gave me the deadline and I already made a good timeframe to make the rest of the outfits."

Chat Noir glanced at the bluette when he said cheekily, "I assume that the others are going to be as paw-some as the one you completed."

Marinette let out a giggle before she said, "Nice try Kitty, but I'm not spilling anything until they're done."

During this interaction, Tikki peeked out from behind the computer monitor to see what was going on. The red Kwami smiled at what she saw. Somewhat glad about the friendly interaction between the two heroes.

When Chat Noir looked at the computer, Tikki ducked back behind the monitor. The black-clad hero then asked, "What were you watching before I came along?"

Marinette walked over to her computer when she said, "I was watching a cartoon before I go to bed." She sat back down in her chair when she added as she glanced at the black-clad hero, "It only has French subtitles though."

Chat Noir looked over the bluette's shoulder to look at the still frame of the show to see if he could figure out what it was. Though given that he didn't watch a lot of cartoons growing up, it was a losing battle for the blonde. "What's the show?" he asked, giving up on figuring out something he already didn't have a lot of knowledge regarding cartoons, much less a foreign one.

Marinette got ready to hit the Play button when she said, "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, the 2002 remake. I like the storyline and the character designs." She hit the Play button before she said, "It's been a while since I watched it, but it's still as good as I remember."

The two watched the episode, and even though he didn't know the characters or the lore, Chat Noir enjoyed watching. He should look the series up at a later date.

During one particular moment in the episode, Marinette paused it and then rewind it a few seconds.

"And I must thank you as well. For teaching me a valuable lesson about Trust. It must be earned, not simply by word but by deed." (1) Although the two had to read the French subtitles to understand what was being said.

Marinette paused the video, something dawning on her as those words sank into her brain.

Chat Noir was getting a little worried at the odd behaviour when he asked, "Purr-incess? Are you okay?"

Marinette nodded as she got out, "Yeah, yeah, I'm okay. It's just... I think I should start getting ready for bed."

Chat Noir didn't seem to buy that reason when he asked, "You sure you're okay?"

Marinette smiled at the black-clad hero when she said, "Yes, I am. Because I now have a plan to deal with a certain liar while getting my point across to the other girls."

Chat Noir raised a brow at this, not completely understanding what his lady was talking about. The black-clad hero took one of the bluette's hands when he said, "Okay, but if you ever need anyone to talk to, I'm willing to listen."

Marinette patted the other's hand with her free hand as she thanked him and that she'll keep that in mind. Soon, Chat Noir had to leave. The bluette got dressed for bed while Tikki flew over to her favourite pillow.

After the bluette brushed her teeth, she turned off the lights and snuggled into bed. Within the next hour, Marinette and Tikki were in the realm of dreams. Dreams of a better future.

~}I{ At The Drac-U-Allies Agency }I{~

Lily hung up the phone to the landline before she wrote something down. When Lily finished she looked up at her younger sisters when she asked in a serious tone, "All right, can someone please explain how this Rossi family is somehow involved with both your jobs?" She glanced at the paper when she added, "On that note, since Dupont needed you to investigate the Rossis, I'm approving the job Phantasma requested." Lily looked at the youngest at the last part.

Seras shrugged when she said, "I didn't know about the Rossi girl until Sunshine told me that she made him uncomfortable. Learned that she was his classmate by doing a little research, it's what I didn't find on her that's concerning."

Lily raised a brow when the two youngest looked at their blonde sister and asked what she was talking about. When Seras finished, Bella placed a hand on her chin when she said thoughtfully, "That's... A little odd, if not concerning..."

Laura couldn't help but add in an equally as thoughtful tone, "And that is oddly similar to Dupont's issue with Mrs Rossi..."

Seras raised a brow before she asked, "Does the school also know about the sexual harassment?" The two youngest stated that they weren't sure but they were certainly going to ask the Headmaster tomorrow and if he wasn't, they'll tell him and show them the pictures they took as proof.

Lily folded her arms when she said, "Well, as odd as this... Convergent is, try not to let it get in the way of your assigned jobs. Though if you need to interact to complete them, do so."

The three founder women nodded when they said, "Understood."

Lilly then told Bella and Laura that Phantasma wanted them to come by at it in the morning after the Rossis leave for school and work. The oldest of the sisters told them to bring some of the surveillance gear. Both the youngest nodded. Lily then looked at Seras when she stated, "I know that you hate sexual harassers, but this Lila Rossi is a minor herself, so please avoid doing what you did to the last one."

Seras waved her right hand when she stated, "I already have that planned out." She did some test movements for her cybernetic prosthetic when she added, "After today's shoot, everyone who was there knows that I'm not taking any shit from her and I'm not afraid to report her to Mr Agreste for sexually harassing his son." She then glanced off to the side when she added sourly, "Though the last part has me rather concerned..."

"How?" Lily asked before she commented, "It sounds like your doing everything right and you ARE doing what Mr Agreste hired you to do."

Seras cringed before she told her sisters what she has learned regarding Adrien Agreste's current situation with Lila and what her ward has told her directly. The latter brought up the most concerns.

Lily, Bella, and Laura did not know how to respond to THAT particular information. Well, they reacted to hearing it but they didn't say anything right away. After a solid minute, Laura was the first to finally say in disgust, "Urg! Okay, THAT explains why Sunshine didn't voice his discomfort when Lila was all over him!"

Bella couldn't help but ask in the same tone as her loli-wearing sister, "How the hell can a parent tell their child that THAT is normal?! Not to mention how can you tell them that their discomfort isn't important?!"

Lilly frowned when she said sourly, "Obviously, Mr Agreste needs some lessons in proper parenting. Also, Seras..."

"Way ahead of you on that," the blonde sister stated with an uneasy frown before adding, "I'm keeping track of what Mr Agreste does and doesn't do regarding the well-being of his son."

Lily narrowed her eyes before she nodded.

That was when Bella asked, "By the way... Where are the guys?"

Lily answered, "Al is at Greta's for dinner, and you know how D is." The others looked at each other with an 'Ah, right' expression.

}I{ Meanwhile }I{

D looked at the words written on a piece of paper in hand before looking up at the name of the building in front of him. He folded the paper into fourths before shoving it into his pocket. D then walked into the building.

}I{ At The Agreste Manor }I{

Adrien was laying in bed, just staring up at the ceiling as Plagg slept on a pillow next to his holder.

Adrien's mind was elsewhere instead of resting as he was told to do. 'Everything makes sense now,' he thought, mentally going over the facts in a new light now that he knew that Marinette is Ladybug.

Well, first off, this definitely explains why Marinette reminded him of Ladybug. They were the same person! Next, it explained why Marinette 'disappeared' during Akuma Attacks. Then, it explained Why Ladybug was so determined to save his classmates when they have been captured or Akumatized. And lastly, it explains how Marinette knew Lila was lying so quickly. One of Lila's first lies was her being Ladybug's Best Friend, that's how Marinette clocked her as a liar.

Adrien rolled to his side as he vowed to do what he can to protect his Lady outside the suit. That would start in the morning.

He then closed his eyes as the pull of sleep took him into the world of dreams. Adrien was dreaming of the wondrous and peaceful future he would hopefully have with his Lady by his side.

~}I{~

To be continued…

~}I{~

1… It's a quote from a particular episode of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (The 2002 Remake). I'll give points to whoever can guess which episode the quote came from, and there will be double points if you can do it w/o looking it up on the internet.

~}I{~