The bell rang signaling the end of morning classes and Adrien couldn't stop smiling. Finally, after months of waiting, he was having lunch with his father! Sure, Adrien had to be back for afternoon classes, but still…..
He was walking down the steps to wait for the car, when he heard a buzz in his pocket. Adrien started to feel his hope fizzles and he gulped as pulled out the dreaded words, disappointment and hurt were a bitter taste in his mouth.
Adrien, I'm unable to meet this afternoon. Have lunch at school.
Father
Plagg peeked up at Adrien. "You okay?" Adrien shook his head and sat down on the steps. "Mom would have had lunch with me. She would have made my favorite, peanut butter and banana and she always served with a big glass of milk. I really miss her, Plagg." "At least you have the memories." Adrien nodded, and stood up, shouldering his bag. "And it isn't everyday we get to eat in the lunchroom."
But when Adrien came to the lunchroom door, he stopped. People laughing, whispering and telling jokes. He would be the only one not having fun, and it hurt to talk about Mother. Adrien smiled vaguely and found a corner table. He was so grateful for his Kwami today.
"Adrien?" A pretty voice called. "Why are sitting here all by yourself? May I sit?" Adrien saw it was Marinette from his classes. He still knew her better as Cat Noir, but Adrien liked the shy, kind girl. "Father was supposed to eat with me today. But he turned me down last minute. He told me to stay at school."
Marinette touched Adrien's arm lightly, seeing the pain he was hiding on his face. Being Ladybug made her even more observant, and she couldn't help knowing he was hurting. "This isn't just about the food, is it?" "No. Father is always to be busy, never finding time for me. But when he wants me to cancel with my friends, I have to obey. Sometimes I feel so alone, Marinette. And here people think I have this perfect life." "Well, first of all, your not alone. I'm your friend, and I'll make sure that doesn't happen. Yes, you maybe a great model, but I like you for you, Adrien. Its not the clothes you wear or how you do your hair. Its your kindness and your ability to always help others." "Thank you for your kind words, Marinette. Your a very special girl." He leaned forward, giving her a kiss on the cheek. "And when school is over for the day, you can come over and we can make your favorite meal and watch a movie."
The bell rang and Marinette had to scoot. Adrien watched her go, his heart feeling so much better. I may not know who Ladybug is, Adrien thought to himself. But I hope she's Marinette Dupain-Cheng.
Marinette had taken him in as a stray alley cat, and now she was taking him in as a friend.