Adrien sighed happily as he watched an instructional guide on how to make cookies, a dopey look on his face as he sat at the island in the kitchen. Plagg snarfed his cheese and flew over, peeking at the screen.
"Let me ask you just one question," Plagg asked. "Are you hoping to actual make a grilled cheese, or just watch Marinette." Adrien glared. "Both, of course. But doesn't she look cute with flour all over her?" Plagg groaned. "You've really turned into a sappy pile of mush, you know that, right?"
Before Adrien could answer, the kitchen door flew open, and Adrien turned, seeing his father come in, rubbing at his eyes. It was only four, much to early for Father to stop work during the day.
Though lately, Adrien was cautiously optimistic things were getting better between him and his father, even if progress was slow. "Who's that young lady?" Gabriel asked, seeing Marinette paused on
The screen mid-stir. Hard as Adrien fought it, a blush appeared on his cheeks. Oh, he was getting as soft as marshmallow when it came to his Princess. What happened to his bad boy image as Claw Noir?
"Marinette. You know, the cute girl who won the hat making contest?" "Right, of course. She's got potential. Would you like some hot chocolate?"
Adrien blinked. Who was this man, and where was his father? "I'd love one." Gabriel poured the powdered chocolate into a pan, adding the milk. "Are you thinking of changing careers?" he sat down across from his son. "You mean, I wouldn't have to model anymore?" Adrien was thoughtful.
"Career day's coming up," Adrien sighed. Gabriel poured their drinks then sat back down at the table.
"That was a big sigh. What's going on in your thoughts?" Adrien squirmed. He shouldn't feel embarrassed, but would his father laugh? Be brave, he told himself firmly. Be bold.
"I don't know what I want to do," he whispered. "I just know I love Marinette, and want a family some day." A lump grew in Adrien's throat. Nothing would change until the Supreme was defeated, but he had so much power. Could he be beaten?
"Whatever you decide, I'll support you." Adrien nodded. For now, he loved being Claw Noir, and being himself.
"Thank you, Father." Gabriel finished his drink and stood up. "I need to get back to work." Adrien sighed, knowing this wouldn't last. But then he was surprised, as Gabriel walked around the table, opening his arms for a hug.
Adrien leaned into the comfort, shedding a tear. It was a start, he thought, as the door latched shut. For now, it was time to see his Princess, for he wanted to hug Marinette.