Hey everyone, sorry I was gone. I have another fanfic that takes top priority, but don't worry, this work is not dead.
So, this chapter is short and necessarily an aftermath of the last chapter. You know, when the class had their picnic and stuff. Well, I want to change something's and hopefully set the stage for what's to come as we move on to Season 3. Hope you enjoy it, don't forget to review and let me know what you think. And if you have any ideas for what I can do for the next season, let me know.
Chapter 8: Aftermath
"Paris was once again saved by our resident heroes, Ladybug and Chat Noir, with the additional assistance of Queen Bee, Rena Rouge, and Carapace; they all banded together to stop Hawk Moth's nefarious plans and show us the importance of being a true hero. This is Nadja Chamack signing off and-" At that moment, the video abruptly cut off.
"Hmph, whatever," Chloe muttered, hastily placing her phone back into her purse as she sulked in the back of the limousine.
"Are you okay, Chloe?" Pollen's voice emerged from inside the purse.
Chloe didn't respond, staring out the car window with a mix of disappointment and frustration. After the battle with Hawk Moth, Chloe had felt a surge of pride, expecting acknowledgment for her heroic efforts. She rushed back to her hotel, changing into a yellow and black striped summer dress, intending to flaunt her newfound status at Marinette's 'Food Testing Party'.
However, her expectations were dashed; she was ignored while discussing her deed, overshadowed by Marinette's event. Chloe had hoped to chat with Adrien, the only one seemingly in good spirits with her, but even he was swept away by Dupain-Cheng's affectionate gestures, leaving Chloe feeling heartbroken.
Demanding to be taken home immediately, Chloe redirected the limousine to a nearby park. She stepped out moodily, barely managing a quick thank you to the stunned driver before taking a solitary walk and settling on a bench.
"Chloe… what's the matter?" Pollen finally spoke up.
Taking a deep breath, Chloe admitted, "I'm just a little disappointed, that's all."
"Chloe, why are you disappointed?" Pollen pressed gently, hovering closer.
"Oh, I don't know, maybe because no one seems to appreciate all that I did to help save Paris today!" Chloe burst out, her frustration evident. "I fought alongside Ladybug and Chat Noir, and what do I get? Pushed aside like an extra, while Marinette gets all the attention with her silly picnic!"
Pollen floated in front of Chloe, choosing her words carefully. "Chloe, being a hero isn't just about recognition. It's about doing what's right, even when no one is watching. And sometimes, that means playing a quieter role."
Chloe sighed heavily, her anger subsiding into a feeling of emptiness. "But Pollen, don't you think I deserve a little recognition? I've changed, haven't I? I'm not the same old Chloe anymore. Look at my wardrobe, for goodness' sake!"
Pollen nodded sympathetically. "Yes, Chloe, you've shown bravery and determination today, qualities of a true hero. I am really proud of you for jumping in to inspire the people of Paris. Sometimes you don't need to wear your hero suit to be one and you did that, making everyone come together to help out Ladybug and Chat Noir," that garnered a small from her owner. "But as a hero, sometimes people won't outwardly recognize your achievements but will appreciate with little gestures here and there.
"Ugh, being a hero isn't as glamorous as I thought," Chloe lamented, seeing Pollen smile in understanding. "Alright, it's Heroes' Day after all. As Paris' newest and impeccably dressed hero of the day, I think we should celebrate with a treat," she declared, sparking a glimmer of excitement in Pollen.
After a few moments of silence, Chloe noticed André's ice-cream cart nearby. She remembered André from various Paris events and decided it was the perfect distraction. Walking over, André greeted her warmly, recognizing her as Paris' hero.
"Well, if it isn't our very own hero," André said with a twinkle in his eye.
Chloe was taken aback by the direct recognition. "You saw that?"
André nodded enthusiastically. "Of course! You showed true bravery out there. It's not every day we see someone like you stepping up to inspire the city."
Chloe smiled genuinely, touched by André's words. "Thank you. I didn't realize people were paying attention."
The couple André had just served nodded at Chloe as they left, clearly recognizing her as well. "You're an inspiration," the woman said with gratitude.
Chloe waved goodbye to them, feeling a warmth in her chest. André turned back to Chloe with a kind smile. "What can I get for you today?"
Chloe glanced at the flavors, her mood lifting. "I'll have two ice-creams, please. How much is it?"
André shook his head, still smiling. "On the house. Consider it a thank you from me to you."
Chloe blinked in surprise at his generosity. "Really? Thank you, André."
He handed her two perfectly crafted ice-cream cones, one in her favorite flavor. Chloe took them with gratitude, feeling a mix of emotions she couldn't quite place.
Pollen floated up beside her as they walked away from the cart. "See, Chloe? There are times when your strength is admired."
Chloe glanced down at Pollen and nodded slowly. "Yeah," she said softly, a genuine smile forming on her face. "Maybe being a hero isn't so bad after all. Maybe I can milk this for all it's worth," she said in a scheming tone.
"Chloe," Pollen said sternly, but could not help laughing at the obvious joke. The two left for a walk, but unbeknownst to Chloe, Master Fu had been watching the interaction from a nearby bench. He turned to Wayzz with a knowing smile.
"You were right about her, Wayzz," Master Fu said quietly.
Wayzz nodded in agreement. "Yes, she's come a long way, but there's still much for her to learn."
Author's Notes:
Hello Guys! I wanted to write this chapter as a little after thought of the last one. I wanted to just show Chloe getting a little praise, and what's sweeter than some ice-cream? Maybe chocolate…oh well.
I will see you in the next chapter.
