Marinette stumbled through the rain towards home, after a patrol with Claw Noir. It had been uneventful, even though they had fun. However, she had anticipated the sudden downpour, and was soaked in seconds. The wind rose, lashing at her cheeks, her hairband coming loose and disappearing into the darkness. Like wet hissing snakes, her long hair whipped into her face, making it hard to see.
Marinette was a very brave girl, but at the moment, she was scared. She hurried through the gloom, looking for a landmark, anything that would guide her home. Marinette was so focused, she tripped, sprawling into a large puddle.
Pain bit at her chin, along with the chilly water. She tried standing up, but the world grew fuzzy. "Princess, I'm here," Claw called above the wind, scooping her up into his arms. Marinette instantly
felt safe, even with her chin throbbing here in Claw's strong arms.
When Marinette opened her eyes, she was under a blanket at home, Claw lightly dabbing her chin. "Ouch!" she whimpered, and Claw gave her a small smile. "Ah, your awake." "Did I fall asleep?" Marinette asked, voice fuzzy with sleep. "Just for a minute or two. Thank goodness I came along, or who knows how long you would have been in that puddle." "Thanks for saving me," she said. "I would save your thanks till after a bit some stinging solution on your chin." Marinette winced, grabbing Claw's hand and squeezing tight. "There. A band-aid and you should be good as new." "Mind if I change into something dry?" she asked, noticing she was still in soggy clothes.
"I'll make us some hot chocolate." Marinette scurried upstairs, happily peeling off her wet things and changing into something cozy. The wind was still making the trees dance as the rain continued to fall.
"Mm, smells good!" Marinette trotted back downstairs, smelling the sweet smell of cocoa. "And of course, a marshmallow or two," Claw grinned, plopping them in.
They talked about school, and Marinette caught him up with the latest news. This is nice, she thought, wrapping her hands around the warm cup. "I'm so glad your here," Marinette told Claw, thinking how lonesome things could get at home. "I noticed you have a few video games. Up to a little competition at Mario Kart?" Marinette laughed. "As long as we stay friends after. I race a mean cart." "Ooh, fighting words! Your on!" They shook hands, and Marinette suddenly felt shy. "And maybe you'd stay for dinner? Its just me tonight." "I'd love to." "Great! Hope you like worms!"
Claw started to look a bit green. "Um, on second thought…." Marinette laughed. "No, silly! Spaghetti and meatballs!" Claw gave her a hug, and helped her up. "Count me in!"