Adrien

'Adrien, thank you for coming.'

Adrien presented his ID to the secretary, before walking through the turnstiles and into the open arms of Kagami. After a quick hug, he could tell she was peering around him, obviously looking for something—or someone.

Adrien reached for the back of his neck, rubbing over this nape. 'I didn't have to bring her with me. I found a babysitter.'

Kagami tilted her head to the side, her expression void as she studied his face. 'Who said I was looking for Emily?'

A flare of heat coated his cheeks. Kagami was never one to beat around the bush and right now she was most certainly pruning his nonchalance.

'I don't know who you're talking about?'

'Your face tells me differently, Adrien.' She turned on her perfectly pristine heels and strolled effortlessly towards the stairs. Following, Adrien placed his hands to his cheeks, hoping the cool leather of his gloves would tone down the colour before he bumped into Félix.

They made their way up the winding staircase, silence almost defending them with unspoken questions he knew Kagami was desperate to ask.

'Is Ivy already here?' Adrien enquired, keeping his eyes forward as he ascended the staircase.

Kagami nodded, her expression unreadable. 'She is.'

He glanced over at her, curiosity piqued. 'And has she said anything?'

She stopped walking, her gaze sharp as she crossed her arms, her posture unyielding. 'She thinks you two are involved. She's been talking to the hairstylists since she arrived—something about you taking her out for drinks in Switzerland, and how you're "more than just friends."'

Adrien raised an eyebrow. 'And?'

Kagami's eyes narrowed. 'Félix is not pleased. He doesn't appreciate you using the company's money for... personal outings, Adrien.'

She continued up the staircase, her steps measured and calm. Just before she entered the makeshift studio, she paused and glanced back at Adrien. 'Does Marinette know about Ivy?'

Adrien froze at the question, a sudden unease settling in. 'What—? Wait... Marinette?' He stumbled over his words.

Kagami fixed him with a sharp, knowing look. 'Yes. Does she know?'

He quickly shook his head, his hands raised defensively. 'Myself and Ivy only went on a couple of dates, that's all. It wasn't anything serious. Just... casual.' His voice tightened with frustration. 'I've told her that a hundred times! But she keeps insisting we're together. And nothing's happening with Marinette.'

Kagami arched an eyebrow, her expression unreadable. 'And you've been clear with Ivy, I take it?'

'Of course!' Adrien's voice betrayed a hint of defensiveness. 'I've told her, more than once, that we're not together. But she doesn't listen. She thinks we're—' He stopped himself, visibly uncomfortable with where the conversation was headed. 'It's frustrating. She just... doesn't get it.'

Kagami nodded, her expression thoughtful but unamused. 'Then you need to sort it out, Adrien. It's clear she's not getting the message.' She glanced at him with a hint of reproach. 'Especially with Marinette back in Paris. You don't want this to blow up in your face.'

He winced, the mention of Marinette making his stomach twist. He knew Kagami was right—he had to get things straight with Ivy before it became a bigger problem. 'I know... I just don't know how to make her understand.'

Kagami gave him a brief, pointed look. 'Figure it out.'

With that, she turned and led the way toward the conference room which had become a makeshift studio. Adrien followed, still feeling the weight of the situation. When they entered the loft space, the chaos immediately hit him. The room was filled with a blur of activity—people rushing about, trying to turn the sleek, modern room into a festive holiday cabin. Decorations were thrown around in a haphazard fashion: garlands half-hung, tinsel draped over furniture, and lights strung in crooked patterns. A room showing complete and utter holiday chaos, almost a mirror image of his personal life.

One person was arguing with a technician over the placement of a Christmas tree, while another was desperately trying to fix a tangled mess of lights. Adrien fought hard to keep the laughter contained as he watched Félix get tangled in a clump of lights sprawled across the floor and trip over.

Kagami surveyed the scene with cool detachment, unfazed by the chaos. 'Well,' she said dryly, 'it's certainly... festive.'

Adrien chuckled nervously, his mind still partially occupied with the Ivy situation. 'Yeah, 'festive' is one word for it.'

Félix suddenly lurched forward, barrelling into Kagami with such intense force, he pinned her against the wall behind them.

'Hello, pretty Lady.' Kagami pushed her boyfriend off with such unwarranted force, he landed on his backside in front of Adrien's feet. A smug smile stretched across Félix's lips. 'I love it when she plays dirty.'

Stretching out, Félix clasped his hand onto Adrien's, the latter pulling him up. 'Right, what's the emergency? I'm here to save the day.'

'You're one of the reasons my day's ruined! The photographs look awful! You look like someone just died–'

'Maybe because they did,' Adrien said, shrugging.

'Don't interrupt me! Like I said, you look about as festive as a damp towel, and Ivy looks like after dark at Spearmint Rhino.'

'Spearmint...what? Why would she look like a rhino?' Adrien gave him a scrutinised look, wondering why he could call Ivy a rhino...she was more a flamingo...or stork.

Félix's face was growing redder by the second, beads of sweat clinging to his hairline in the most unattractive way. 'That doesn't matter! All you need to know is the photos looked like I was trying to sell Fifty Shades of Festive Freaks, not a top-of-the-range perfume. Which, FYI, is the whole reason we had the shoot in the first place! We're presenting to the other company next week, and if we want to buy them out, we need to go in with a bang. Which is exactly why I need your pretty face on the other side of the camera.'

'Awww, you think I'm pretty.'

'Adrien!'

Adrien raised his hands in mock surrender, sidestepping away from Félix and heading toward the stylists. Man, that guy was wound tighter than Ladybug's yo-yo. But he had to admit, Félix was right about one thing: if this merger went through, their company would be up there with the big names—Prada, Gucci... the lot.

He was doing this for Emily, and having such a successful company would give her the comfort she would need for the future.

With a deep breath, he settled into the chair beside Ivy, wishing–beyond anything–she wouldn't notice he was there.

He sat down and pulled his phone out, firing a quick text to Marinette before closing his eyes and trying to relax. He didn't have the energy to deal with Ivy and her fantasies. He'd made it perfectly clear the other day when he spoke to her on the phone, they were not, and would never be a couple. The sooner she realised it the better.

'Adrien. Fancy seeing you here?' He could tell she was putting on a smoothness in her voice, one which wasn't usually there, obviously trying to coax him into conversation.

'He can't talk at the moment.' Juleka stepped to his side, offering him a small, shy smile. 'I need to do his makeup, and Félix has asked for you to go to your fitting.'

Adrien closed his eyes and grinned, the warmth of a quiet moment settling in his chest. He loved being part of such a close-knit business. Not only was his family running his father's company, but most of his friends were involved in one way or another too. It wasn't just a job—it was a community, a family. The best decision he'd ever made was running away from home to go to collège. He'd been naive back then, thinking freedom would be the answer to everything. But looking back now, everything had changed that day. That leap had set him on a path that, no matter how winding or difficult, had brought him to this point. He wouldn't trade it for anything. Not the lies, the arguments, the losses, the secrets—everything had shaped him into the person he was today.

His thoughts drifted to Emily. She was still young, still figuring things out, but so was he. He hadn't accomplished everything he'd set out to do, but he felt a growing confidence that, in time, he would. The days when he doubted himself were fewer now. He knew he was capable, not just in the world of business, but in life. And when it came to Marinette—he had to be sure of that.

She was back.

A surge of warmth swept through him at the thought of her, and with it, a deep ache. He still remembered the first time he saw her again after all those years. She'd changed, but not in a way that made him feel like he didn't know her anymore. No, she was still the same Marinette—the girl he once adored, the one who could light up a room with just a smile, even if she didn't always realise it. But there was something different about her now. Something more guarded. He could see it in the way she carried herself, the way her eyes darted nervously when she thought no one was looking.

She was back, and with her return came an overwhelming desire to protect her. To be there for her, to make sure she knew that she would always have a place with him. No matter what had happened before, no matter what she had been through, he would keep her safe. From the ghosts of the past. From the painful memories. From the man who was destroying her heart.

Adrien wanted to be her shining knight. He wanted to rush in, sword drawn, and save her from everything. But he knew, deep down, that he couldn't force her into anything. He couldn't demand that she leave Johnny and stay with him. As much as he wanted to fix everything, to be the one who gave her everything she needed, he understood that this had to come from her. It had to be her choice, her decision. He couldn't make it for her.

He thought about Sabine's words, the ones she'd said when Emily was born, about how Marinette would have suffocated him if she'd been there. The truth of that statement hit him harder than he'd been willing to admit. It wasn't that Marinette didn't love him—he knew she did—but she had a way of taking over. Of wanting to fix everything, even when it wasn't her place to. And as much as he loved her, as much as he wanted to be her knight in shining armour, he knew that it wouldn't have worked. Not then, and maybe not now, if he didn't let her grow on her own.

The thought twisted inside him, a painful realisation. If Marinette had been around when Emily was born, he would have never had the chance to figure things out on his own. He would have been sheltered, protected—yes, but also held back. He needed to find his own way, to learn to stand on his own feet. And as much as he longed to be there for her, to be the one she ran to, he had to let her walk her own path too. She needed to want to be saved, not just be rescued, just because he thought she deserved more.

He closed his eyes for a moment, lost in the quiet hum of the world around him, but then his thoughts returned to Marinette. He wanted to believe that her time at home—however short it was going to be—would give her the clarity she needed. Clarity about what love really was. The kind of love that wasn't possessive or suffocating. The kind of love that was patient and kind, that let people grow without fear of being controlled or held back.

Adrien had learned that love wasn't about holding on too tightly; it was about trust. He had learned that the hard way, through time and experience. And it was something he hoped Marinette would see as well.

But regardless of whether she came to that realisation on her own, he was determined to show her what love could be. Not in a grand, sweeping gesture or a dramatic declaration, but in the quiet moments. The way he would stand by her, no matter the distance between them, no matter the struggles they might face. The way he would support her choices, even if they weren't the ones he wanted for her.

Because, at the end of the day, he knew what love truly meant. It meant giving someone the freedom to be themselves, even if it meant walking away. And, if it came to that, he would let her go. But he would always be there when she was ready to come back.

Adrien took a deep breath, his mind still tangled in thoughts of Marinette, but the buzz of activity around him began to pull him back to the present. The distant murmur of stylists and photographers, the quick shuffle of shoes against the floor—it was all part of the routine now. The familiar rhythm of the photoshoot set in as he pushed aside the weight of his thoughts. For now, he needed to focus. This was his job. This was what he did best.

Juleka's voice broke through his reverie. 'You're up in five,' she said, her tone both professional and kind.

He nodded, blinking as he pulled himself together. There was no room for distraction here. Marinette, the company, the growing ache in his chest—those were things he'd have to set aside for now. He couldn't let it affect his work. Not today. Too much was at stake.

Juleka finished her final touch on Adrien's face, and he offered her a grateful smile. 'Thanks,' he murmured, running a hand through his hair to shake off any lingering tension.

A low hum of activity surrounded him, the photographers adjusting their lenses, assistants moving props, and lighting technicians tweaking the setup. Adrien glanced at the mirror again, his reflection staring back at him, but the image felt distant, like he was seeing himself through someone else's eyes. His mind kept drifting back to Marinette—wondering what she was doing now, how she was doing with Emily, if they'd managed to have fun together.

But no—he had to stop this. Not now. Not here. He clenched his jaw, forcing himself to snap back to the moment. The moment when the lights would shine on him, and everything would fall into place. This wasn't about her right now. This was about the photoshoot. About giving the company the wow factor to win. He just needed to focus. To keep his eye on the prize.

'Adrien,' a voice called out, pulling him back into focus. It was Félix, walking toward him with a faint smile on his lips. 'Time to make magic, and money,' he said, his demeanour a little more relaxed than when he'd arrived.

He returned the smile, albeit a little slower. 'Yeah, let's do this.'

Félix led him to the set where the crew had already prepared the backdrop. It was a cosy setting, a fusion of traditional and modern, the perfect contrast to the perfume they were showcasing.

Félix went to move away, only to stop and lean in towards Adrien's ear. 'Please try to stop her from looking like she should work at the Moulin Rouge.' He tapped Adrien on the shoulder before walking away, leaving Adrien with a dread in his stomach. Ivy really needed to think uptown girl today if they were going to get through this in a reasonable amount of time.

The session began in earnest, with flashes of light flickering around him like bursts of stars. Each click of the camera captured a version of himself that felt more real than anything he'd felt in days. Félix moved around the set with ease, directing the shoot with a meticulous eye, adjusting poses and lighting as if orchestrating a symphony. Adrien couldn't help but admire the way he worked. It was like he was born for this world—so comfortable, so in control. And he would be having words with his cousin about why he didn't accompany them to Switzerland. They could have had this complete earlier this week.

As the shoot continued, the adrenaline kicked in, pushing him further into the rhythm of it all. His earlier thoughts about Marinette, the questions, the worries—those began to fade into the background, replaced by the sharp focus of the lens on him, the camera capturing every moment, every angle.

But a part of him couldn't completely let her go. She was there, a whisper in the back of his mind. And when the shoot finally came to an end, the last few shots taken, he exhaled deeply, knowing that within moments he would be back with her and Emily.

'Great work today,' Félix said, appearing at his side again, his tone more genuine than usual. 'You were on fire.'

He nodded, offering a half-smile, but his thoughts were already elsewhere. 'Thanks,' he muttered, even though his mind was still tangled in thoughts of her.

Félix studied him for a moment, and he could feel the weight of his gaze, as if Félix knew exactly where his mind was. But he didn't press him. Instead, he just gave a slight shrug and walked off to check with the photographer about the final shots.

Wanting nothing more than to get home to his girls, the moment Ivy approached him, he couldn't contain his huff. She walked with a swing of her hips and her eyes glinting mischievously under the studio lights. 'So, Adrien, the gala's coming up,' she began, her voice casual but her gaze sharp. 'What are you wearing? And more importantly, who's your date?'

Adrien blinked, surprised by the sudden question. He'd been so wrapped up in everything else that he had forgotten. He had always attended these events solo—usually lost in a sea of business associates and photographers, dodging conversations he didn't really want to have. 'I'm not sure yet,' he said, trying to sound nonchalant. 'I haven't really thought about it.'

Except now, he couldn't think of anything else, but Marinette in a beautiful ball gown perched on his arm. The thought of her at his side at the gala was enough to send a rush of warmth through him—one he hadn't been expecting.

Ivy's smile widened, though there was something faintly possessive in her gaze. 'Well, of course, people expect more than just the handsome bachelor, don't they? You are Adrien Agreste. It's not enough to just show up by yourself—you need someone on your arm, someone who'll look just as good as you do.'

Before Adrien could respond, a voice cut in sharply from behind them.

'I think Adrien already has a date,' Kagami's voice rang out, and they both turned to find her standing a few paces away, her gaze fixed firmly on the model. 'And that date is not you,' she added, her tone firm, a touch of annoyance creeping into her words.

Adrien's eyes widened, stunned by Kagami's outburst. He had not been planning to go with anyone—he'd intended to attend the gala alone. But the way Kagami had spoken, as though the matter was settled, caught him off guard. 'Uh... Kagami?' he said, still reeling from her interruption.

Her gaze softened for a fraction of a second, but her words were still decisive. 'His date is Marinette,' Kagami said, her voice softening only slightly. "You know... Marinette Dupain-Cheng."

Ivy's eyes flicked between them for a moment before something seemed to click. Her face momentarily froze, as if recognizing the name. She raised an eyebrow, then her lips curled into a slow, smug smile. 'Marinette?' she echoed, drawing out the name with a little too much interest. 'Oh, I remember her. The PJ girl, right?' She looked him up and down, her expression hardening as she continued. 'So, you're really going with her? You know, she's probably just after your money, right?'

Adrien's stomach dropped. He hadn't expected Ivy to bring up the "PJ girl" incident. The name stung a little—he hadn't thought of that time in ages, and it certainly wasn't how he wanted Marinette to be remembered. But Ivy wasn't finished.

'I mean, come on,' Ivy continued, her voice thick with disdain, 'don't you think it's a little convenient that she's suddenly so interested in you? She's just another gold digger looking for her way into the spotlight.' She gave a dismissive little wave. 'You're Adrien Agreste. She's not interested in you, she's interested in what you can give her.'

Before he could respond, Kagami stepped in again, her voice low and sharp. 'You don't know anything about her, Ivy. Don't make assumptions you can't back up,' she said, her tone freezing. 'Marinette isn't interested in Adrien for what he has. She's a person, not some gold-digging social climber you can tear down.'

Ivy's smile faltered, but she recovered quickly, flicking her hair over her shoulder as she turned away. 'Whatever you say,' she said with a sharp laugh, her voice laced with thinly veiled bitterness. 'You'll figure it out, eventually.' Turning sharply, she stalked away, back to the dressing room.

Kagami's gaze didn't waver, but her eyes softened just a touch as she glanced at Adrien. 'Don't let her get to you,' she said quietly, her voice full of quiet reassurance. 'People like her are always going to try to pull others down.'

He stood there for a moment, his thoughts swirling. He had never expected Ivy to be so hostile, or to throw around accusations like that. It made him feel uneasy—unsettled. But despite the lingering discomfort, one thing was clear: he wanted to go to the gala with Marinette. That felt like the right choice, the one that would make the night memorable, for all the right reasons.

Later that evening, Adrien finally made it home, beyond exhausted. His body felt heavy, weighed down by the long day, but there was a strange lift in his chest. Thoughts of Marinette still lingered, but there was a new sense of warmth, of possibility, surrounding those thoughts now.

As he entered the house, the soft hum of music caught his attention. It was an upbeat tune, one he'd heard far too many times. It was loud, playful, full of energy–and one which would be stuck in his head for the remainder of the night.

Curious, he followed the sound until he reached the kitchen. The moment he stepped through the door, he stopped, stunned by the sight before him.

Emily, in her Isabela costume, was spinning around the kitchen, laughter bubbling from her as she twirled under Marinette's arm. The two of them were dancing together—no choreography, just pure, spontaneous joy. Marinette, beaming with an infectious smile, lifted Emily up as they both giggled. The music played on, an energetic pulse filling the air.

At that moment, Adrien felt something inside him shift. It wasn't just the sight of his little sister, so carefree and alive, or even Marinette, laughing with abandon. It was the feeling in the room—the warmth, the happiness, the sense that everything was right. It was the sound of their laughter mixing with the music, and for the first time in a long while, Adrien felt whole.

Marinette glanced up at him, her eyes meeting his as she twirled Emily once more. She didn't stop dancing, but there was a quiet understanding in the way she smiled at him, as if she knew exactly what he was feeling.

For a fleeting moment, the weight of his worries, his confusion about the future, everything, simply faded into the background. All that mattered was this—this laughter, this warmth, and the undeniable sense of home he felt in that kitchen, surrounded by the people he cared about.

His heart, in that single, perfect moment, never felt so full.

*****

Marinette

'Nettie! Nettie!'

Emily, or Isabela as she wanted to be called, sprinted into the kitchen at a speed Usain Bolt would be proud of. She stumbled over her slip on shoes, waving pink chiffon above her head.

'Nettie! Look! Look!' Slightly out of breath, the material dropped, and the tiny toddler seemed to launch herself into thin air after stepping on the edge.

With superspeed, Marinette turned from where she was icing biscuits and caught the small child before she graced the floor with her face.

'Woah!' Marinette laughed. 'Slow down, sweetie!'

'I found my favourite dress.' She thrust the material into Marinette's face, causing her to cough and splutter for the unfortunate intake of cotton.

Marinette knew what it was within moments of holding it out in front of her. She smiled down at the wide-eyed toddler, hope sparkling in the small child's eyes. 'Let's do it!'

Ten minutes later, Isabela was ready and Marinette was downloading the Encanto soundtrack onto her phone. She moved towards the Zouzou home assistance device and placed her phone on top, waiting for it to connect.

Her phone flashed a couple of times before a green tick appeared, along with a smile on her face. 'Are you ready?'

Emily smiled, moving towards where Marinette was holding out her phone and tapping the play button.

The opening bars of 'What Else Can I Do?' began to play, Emily singing a beat or two behind the song as she threw herself fully into the performance.

Marinette watched in awe as the little girl moved through the routine with the confidence of someone who'd stepped straight out of the movie. She even picked up the ladybug comforter, holding it like it was a tiny cactus prop. Marinette couldn't help but imagine how incredible Emily would've been in her dance show—so expressive, so bold. And those dance moves? They were serious.

As the soft tones of Isabela transitioned into Mirabel's part, Emily froze mid-performance. Her singing stopped, and she turned a sharp glare on her, hands firmly on her hips, her tiny frame radiating authority.

'You're Mirabel,' Emily declared, her stare so pointed it made Marinette shrink slightly, quivering under the scrutiny.

It took Marinette a moment to catch on. She was Mirabel? Oh. Oh, no! She'd missed her cue.

Emily sighed dramatically, flicking her hand in a gesture of exasperation before fixing Marinette with a determined look. 'Start it again.'

Three tries later, the performance was seamless. They danced, laughed, and sang together, their voices filling the room with a lightness Marinette hadn't felt in what seemed like forever. For a few precious moments, everything else faded away—Johnny's missed calls, the string of text messages, the noise of the outside world. None of it mattered.

Right now, her whole universe was Adrien and Emily, and for the first time in a long while, things felt like they were falling into place. She felt weightless, her heart full and her mind at peace, as if the world had finally started making sense again.

The sound of clapping echoed from the doorway, followed by a dramatic call of, 'Encore! Encore!' Marinette turned, positioning Emily on her hip, her heart leaping at the sight of Adrien leaning against the doorframe, a smile transforming his face into someone younger, more mischievous.

'Enjoying the show, monsieur?' she asked, arching an eyebrow as a teasing smile tugged at her lips.

'Best performance I've ever seen,' Adrien quipped, his grin pure Chat Noir mischief, a clear indication of his hidden life as a superhero. 'Though I might need to see it again to fully appreciate the artistic nuance.'

She snorted softly, setting Emily down on her feet. 'Nuance, huh? I didn't realise knock-your-socks-off amazing needed a second viewing.' She tilted her chin up, feigning mock arrogance. 'But I suppose not everyone can keep up with our level of skill.'

Adrien gasped, his hand flying to his chest in faux offence. 'Oh, really? Your level of skill? I think I saw your duet partner carrying the routine!'

'I'd like to see you do better, Chaton.'

A flicker of something made Adrien's eyes seem deadly. 'Maybe you'll be lucky, and I'll show you my moves later.'

Marinette choked, unable to think of any retort back which wasn't 'yes please'. Luckily, Emily darted forward, giggling as she ran to Adrien. He crouched down just in time to scoop her up, spinning her around as she squealed with delight.

'See, Emily knows talent when she sees it,' he teased, lifting her high. 'Who's the better dancer, huh?'

Marinette crossed her arms, feigning a pout as she leaned against the counter. 'Careful, Emily,' she called out, her tone light but playful. 'Don't let him fool you—he thinks dad jokes are cutting-edge humour. Do you really want to side with him?'

Adrien shot her a mock glare over Emily's shoulder. 'You wound me, Princess...but it's great to see you like this.'

Marinette smiled, she couldn't deny that she liked being like this. The feeling of happiness coating her like a warm blanket. As she watched Adrien with Emily, their carefree banter drifting between them, she felt her heart swell again. The teasing, the warmth, the connection. Even though she'd only just broken up with Johnny, she knew this was where she belonged. Her hand reached for her earlobe. Her thumb brushing the piece of jewellery which, dispite its issues, had given her everything.

Thank you, Master Fu.

Adrien's gaze met hers, his smile still holding that hint of Chat Noir playfulness, Marinette knew she wouldn't trade this feeling for anything in the world.

'Thank you for today,' he said, stepping forward, Emily still perched on his hip. He wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her into an awkward side hug that sent a rush of fireworks through her chest—more intense than any Heroes Day display.

'We had a great time,' Marinette replied, a soft smile on her face as she fought the urge to wrap her arm around his waist. Just as she considered it, Adrien moved away, gently setting Emily down on a stool. Too late again, she thought, her heart sinking just a little.

'We made cookies!' Emily exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

'Did you, now?' Adrien grinned, his eyes flicking to Marinette with a playful glint. 'I know for a fact that Marinette's cookies are the greatest cookies in the whole world. Don't tell Uncle Tom though—he'd be upset.'

Emily's jaw dropped in mock horror as she turned to Marinette. 'I don't want to upset Uncle Tom. He's my favourite.'

Marinette smiled, her heart softening at how easily Emily had made herself at home in her world. It seemed everyone was this girl's favourite, and she'd seen it with her own eyes.

'It's okay,' Marinette replied with a teasing grin. 'He is my papa.'

Emily gasped, her eyes widening. 'I love Uncle Tom, so much!' She went quiet for a moment, her brows furrowing in thought, before she added, 'I don't have a papa. But I do have an Adrien.'

The words hung in the air, light and innocent, but they struck something deep in Marinette's chest. She glanced at Adrien, her smile faltering for just a moment as she caught the unspoken emotion in his eyes. Emily's simple declaration felt like a promise, a connection that ran deeper than words. And at that moment, Marinette realised just how much this small, tender space between them was beginning to mean.

'Well, Munchkin.' Adrien's voice was thick and deep, emotions clear in his words as he fought to keep them at bay. 'It's time to go to bed. Say thank you to Marinette.'

Emily glanced at Marinette before tapping Adrien on the shoulder and calling him closer. She whispered something in his ear, and his eyes widened in surprise.

'Are you sure?' he asked softly, his voice laced with concern. Emily nodded enthusiastically in response.

'Okay then.'

Adrien turned to face Marinette, a sheepish look on his face as his hand rubbed the back of his neck. The motion drew Marinette's attention to where his biceps flexed against the fabric of his jumper. She hadn't looked at a man this way in years—the kind of look that made her pulse quicken, that made her heart beat just a little faster.

Johnny had always been quick to say women sexualised men when they looked at them like eye candy. Any time Marinette so much as glanced at another man, Johnny was there, berating her, accusing her of something she hadn't even considered. She'd learned to stop herself from those fleeting thoughts, those innocent moments of appreciating someone's presence, because it always brought a storm of guilt in its wake.

But now, as her gaze lingered on Adrien, she realised how much she had been holding back. How much she had missed the simplest things—the warmth, the quiet admiration—just because Johnny's words still echoed in her mind. But with Adrien, the world felt different. It felt safer somehow.

'Emily would like to know if you'll put her to bed tonight,' Adrien said, his voice gentle. 'But it's completely fine if you want to head home instead. You've been with her most of the day, and I'd totally understand if you needed a break—'

'No!' Marinette blurted out, her voice a little louder than she'd intended. Both Agrestes turned identical looks of confusion on her, and she immediately felt the heat rise to her cheeks. 'I mean, I don't mind at all,' she added quickly, softening her tone. 'I'd like to... if that's okay with you, of course. She's your sister.'

Adrien smiled, a quiet warmth in his expression. 'Yes. Yes, of course.'

Marinette nodded, her gaze flicking to the counter as she tried to think of what to say next. Her mind spun uselessly, until her eyes landed on Tikki and Plagg curled up together by the toaster. She stilled, guilt twisting in her stomach like a knot.

When she'd moved, she hadn't even thought about this, she realised, her heart sinking. Tikki and Plagg—two halves of the same whole, and she had separated them.

The sight of the two kwamis, resting side by side as if the world outside didn't matter, made her chest tighten. She felt sick at the thought of the stress she must have put them under. They weren't just partners—they were connected in a way deeper than she could ever understand. How could she have ignored that?

She swallowed hard, determined to make it right. But for now, she focused on the warmth of Adrien's smile and Emily's expectant gaze, grounding herself at the moment, even as the guilt lingered at the edges of her thoughts.

'So, bedtime,' Marinette said, plastering a smile on her face and reaching over to take Emily in her arms. 'What's first?'

A little while later, Emily had brushed her teeth, changed and was curled up in her bed, snuggled with her ladybug comforter and underneath her Encanto bedsheets. The room was a delightful chaos, a perfect reflection of a little girl's imagination and love for adventure.

Stuffed animals lined every available surface, clearly souvenirs from countless trips to Disneyland. Dolls were scattered across the floor in various states of undress, some missing shoes, others missing entire limbs, as if they'd been through battles of their own. Photos adorned the walls, moments captured in time with Adrien and Emily, each frame brimming with love and joy.

Her eyes wandered to the princess castle near the foot of the bed. Inside, she spotted a familiar scene that made her stifle a laugh. A Ladybug and Chat Noir figure were huddled close together, as if sharing secrets, while Monarch—headfirst in a baby's potty—had a rope tied around one of his legs.

Her lips twitched as she bit back a grin. Monarch in a potty, she thought, finding it both hilarious and strangely satisfying. Considering who Monarch actually was—Emily's own father—it was almost poetic. She wondered if Adrien had bought the figure as a joke or if Emily had come up with the scenario all on her own. Either way, it was perfect.

Marinette leaned down, tucking the comforter securely around Emily. The sight of the little girl's peaceful face warmed her heart. This room, messy and full of life, felt like a haven.

Adrien leaned over to kiss Emily on her head and Marinette felt her heart bloom at the tender action between the two.

'Goodnight, sweetheart.' He moved back, allowing her to wrap her arms around his neck and rub her nose to his, both smiling with the tender, yet routine action.

Resting back on his knees, Adrien turned his attention to Marinette, his expression soft yet hopeful. 'After she's asleep, maybe you could stay for a while. Only if you want to. I haven't eaten yet, so I was thinking about ordering in... and we could taste-test the cookies.'

The hopeful gleam in his eyes mirrored the quiet flutter in her chest. There was only one answer she could give. 'I'd like that,' she said softly, her voice carrying more emotion than she'd intended.

Adrien rubbed a hand over his mouth, but it was too late to block the radiant smile spreading across his face. She'd seen it—the unguarded joy that lit up his features—and suddenly, her own heart began to soar, lifting with the quiet possibilities the night now seemed to hold.

'I'll order something then. Do you still like duck à l'orange?'

She nodded, impressed he'd remembered such information about her.

'I'll see you downstairs.' He gave Emily one last smile before standing and leaving the room, closing the door delicately behind him–his eyes fully focused on her.

She looked at the many books in the bookcase beside her. Every fairytale known to man was there, plus all the Miraculous Ladybug picture books. Marinette ran one finger over one, smiling as she saw the Akuma was Dark Cupid. She pulled the book out and studied the cover. Of course, they'd go for the kiss.

'That one's my favourite,' Emily said, her voice low and quiet. 'The princess saved the prince with true love's kiss.'

Marinette looked back at the cover. Her fingers trailing the picture and causing memories to play like a movie in her head. Now she knew who Chat Noir was, it all made perfect sense.

'What story would you like to read?' Marinette asked, placing the book back and glancing at her new friend.

'Belle.'

Belle? Marinette looked over the books, reading the spine as she went. 'Beauty and the Beast?'

'Yes.'

Taking the book, she settled beside the bed and began to read to an attentive Emily.

Turning to the final page, 'And they lived...'

Emily couldn't help joining in. 'Happily ever after. The end.'

Her breathing had steadied as she relaxed in her bed. Marinette closed and settled it in her lap.

Emily cuddled down low in her bed, her small face glowing with earnestness as she stared up at Marinette. The fairytale book lay forgotten in Marinette's lap, her attention fully captured by the little girl's wide, thoughtful eyes.

'Nettie?' Emily's voice was soft but insistent, pulling Marinette from her thoughts.

'Yes, sweetheart?' she asked, moving forward and brushing a strand of Emily's hair back gently.

'Does Santa make all the children's wishes come true?'

Marinette smiled softly, though something about Emily's serious tone tugged at her. 'I think Santa tries his very best to make all those wishes come true—especially ones that come from the heart. But sometimes it can be impossible to get it completely right. Did you make a special wish this year?'

Emily nodded, her little hands clutching her comforter tightly. 'It's a secret wish, but... I think it's okay to tell you. Since you're part of it.'

Marinette blinked, her chest tightening. 'Part of it?'

Emily leaned in conspiratorially, her wide eyes glistening. 'I told Santa I want my brother to have his Princess. Every prince needs one. But...' She hesitated, then her voice dropped to a whisper. 'I think he already found her. I think it's you.'

Marinette froze, her breath catching in her throat. 'Emily...why would you think that?'

Emily gave her a look as though it was an obvious answer. 'Because you make him happy. Like, really happy. He's always smiling when you're here. Even when he's sad, you make him smile.' She paused, her voice softening with a child's innocence. 'I think you're our happily ever after.'

She stared at Emily, the words slicing through her defences with startling precision. Her mind raced, a mix of denial, disbelief, and something deeper, something she didn't dare name.

'Emily,' she managed, her voice barely above a whisper. 'Sometimes wishes...don't always come true the way we hope.'

Emily frowned, shaking her head adamantly. 'This one will. I've been a really good girl this year.'

She tried to smile, but the weight of Emily's certainty pressed down on her. 'Sweetie, what if Santa can't—'

'He has to,' Emily interrupted, her voice trembling but sure. 'Adrien needs you. I need you.' Her tiny hand reached out to grip Marinette's, her fingers warm and firm. 'You're his princess. You have to stay, okay? Promise me you'll stay.'

She opened her mouth to respond, but her words caught in her throat. The intensity in Emily's gaze was unrelenting, filled with hope so pure it made her chest ache.

'I...' Marinette hesitated, her own voice wavering. How could she promise something when she didn't know if it was even hers to give?

Emily's expression softened, her next words a whisper. 'Please, Nettie. Don't leave us.'

The room fell silent, the air heavy with Emily's plea. Marinette felt the weight of it settle deep in her chest, her heart pounding as though it had heard the question too—and was trying to answer.

She looked at Emily, her small face framed by the warm glow of the nightlight, and felt something crack open inside her. What she wanted more than anything offering itself to her, but had she been good enough this year for Santa to give her, her own wish?

'I promise,' she finally said, her voice barely audible.

Emily's eyes lit up, and she snuggled back into her comforter with a contented smile. 'Good. Now Santa just has to do the rest.'

She sat frozen at the side of the bed, her mind spinning as Emily's breathing grew slow and even, the little girl drifting off to sleep.

But she wasn't sure she could move. Emily's words had planted a seed, and now it was growing roots, winding its way through the cracks in her carefully guarded heart.

What if she was right?

Marinette exhaled shakily, the thought too overwhelming to fully face. She glanced at the little girl's peaceful form, a mix of awe and trepidation swirling within her.

As the room fell silent, the echo of Emily's words hung in the air, unshakable.

I think you're our happily ever after.