Marinette was surprised when, upon receiving a text on his phone, Adrien's father pulled out his cellphone. She knew he was a busy man, but Gabriel Agreste did not seem the time to break social etiquette--and especially not in front of the crown. 

She watched his fingers move across the screen as he dialed his passcode -- 2412. 

Marinette's blood went cold as he looked over the message that came in, then he let out a large sigh, clicking it closed. 

"I'm sorry to say I must be going now," Gabriel said, not sounding even a little bit sorry. He gave his phone a little wave. "Work, you know."

Marinette, despite her shaky legs, stepped forward slightly, subtly hinting towards the door. "Of course, it was great to meet you! Maybe we'll have to meet again, and we can talk more about... designs."

He gave her an odd look. "That would be fine. I will see you at the Halloween party tonight, correct?"

Marinette turned towards Adrien, unsure of the answer. He nodded his head, stiff as a statue. "Looking forward to it," he forced out. 

They watched Gabriel be escorted out by Chloe, not looking back to wave to Adrien. 

"So," said Marinette, as she moved closer to Adrien and grabbed his hand. "that's Gabriel Agreste."

He squeezed her hand back, but then dropped it immediately, leaving her feeling a strange mixture of emotions. Suddenly, his entire energy changed, and he smiled widely at her, and spoke with a tone that was too-light, too-happy."I gotta get ready for the party tonight," and smiled at her, but the sadness in his eyes was prominent. He grinned even wider as he ran up the stairs, waving to her. "I'll see you soon!"

Marinette waved back, letting her hand fall to her side as he bounced away.

That was... weird. 

Not only was that weird, but meeting Gabriel was, too. Not only was it weird, but it scared her. 

Gabriel Agreste was an Akuma. Or at least, he was in with them. 

His phone screen, 2412, the same number that Chat Noir had texted her earlier this week, found on the ring. And he had jewelry made by the same craftsman. This was not a coincidence, and as Marinette entered into her room, escorted by a silent Chloe. She pulled out her phone and sent a quick message to Chat Noir. 

ladyofthenight: I think I have some news. 

And, then the worst thought popped into her head, one that she argued with all throughout getting dressed in a long blue gown by her maiden, all though makeup, through hair, through picking which pearls to wear, and even through her lonely dinner.

Did Adrien know?

And, if he did, was he in on it?

But of course he wasn't, she argued with herself. And it would be stupid to think so. 

But the seed had been planted, and just in case, Marinette grabbed some ribbon from her dresser and made a make-shift garter, and she pulled out her safety knife, just in case, hiding it in between her thigh. It took some adjusting, but by the time she was done, the dress looked normal, and unless someone was looking for it, they wouldn't be able to see the change in texture. 

When Marinette opened her door to find Adrien -- a handsome, dashing Adrien in a dark blue suit and white dress shoes -- it was her turn to smile a bit too wide at him. 

"Ready?" he said, gently grabbing onto her hand, not making eye contact. 

"As I'll ever be."

____

The Halloween party was a sight to behold. The grand hall of the palace had been transformed from a gold and blue color scheme to being covered with a magical, Halloween flair.  Each guest was adorned in black and white formal attire, each with creative Halloween twists. Bats and pumpkins adorned the walls, and the tables were decorated with elegant centerpieces of black roses and white lilies.

Marinette and Adrien navigated through the sea of guests, exchanging polite words and casual conversation with the guests that called for their attention. The tension from earlier seemed to have dissipated for the time being, replaced by their normal comfortable dynamic. As they made their rounds, they couldn't help but admire the creativity of the costumes and decorations. 

"It's really pretty," Marinette said. "Much better than last year's."

Adrien smiled down at her, squeezing her hand. "I didn't get to go to last year's party. What was it like?"

Millions of memories crossed her mind, and it took Marinette what felt like forever -- even though it was merely a split second -- to not run from the room immedaitely. She just looked around at the people and said simply: "Orange." 

Marinette and Adrien continued to mingle with the guests, enjoying the Halloween-themed festivities. They sampled exquisite hors d'oeuvres and sipped on fine wine as they danced and chatted with fellow partygoers.

Among the party's highlights was the lavish dessert table. A mouthwatering array of treats was on display, from delicate chocolate truffles to intricately designed pastries. Marinette couldn't resist indulging in a slice of rich chocolate cake, while Adrien opted for an assortment of fruits, crackers, and cheeses.

As they savored their treats, Tikki and Plagg joined them. Plagg grabbed one of the blocks of cheese from Adrien's plate, ignoring Tikki's scolding frown, and Tikki grabbed a ghost cupcake.

Marinette couldn't help but smile at their choices. "Enjoying the food?"

Plagg grinned mischievously, a piece of cheese in each hand. "You know me, Princess. I never pass up an opportunity for good food."

Tikki, ever the voice of reason, chimed in. "Marinette, I've been watching, and you're doing great. Keep up the good work!"

Marinette's heart swelled, but the joy from the moment of praise vanished when an painfully familiar face came into her view, by the wine table.

Alya, Marinette's best friend from childhood, stood in a group of people, engrossed in conversation. The girl loudly laughed at something one of her companions had stated. Marinette froze,  not ready to face her friend. She'd spent over a year avoiding that, and her last memory of seeing her was with Chat Noir, as she spied on her. 

She decided to give it some time before approaching.

Instead, Marinette put her hand on Adrien's chest and said, "I need to take a breather. I'm going out to the patio for a few minutes -- I'll be back soon, okay?"

"Here, I'll come with," he said, smiling.

"No--" she said it too quickly, and he jerked back, his smile fading slightly. Her hand turned to a fist, and then adjusted his already-perfectly-adjusted tie. "I just need a second to myself. Can you get me a drink?" 

He nodded, and waited until she walked through the wide, windowed doors before moving. A lone guard, unfamiliar to Marinette, stood sentinel near the entrance to the patio. Marinette acknowledged him with a polite nod. She took a deep breath at the fresh, cool air, and she shivered. She'd almost forgotten it was almost November, and she looked at the sky, wondering when the first snow of the year would fall. It was cloudy tonight, so she couldn't see any stars, but the clouds seemed alive as they were a dull grey, lighting the sky.  Despite the goosebumps forming on her arm, the cool night air provided a moment of respite from the lively party. 

Marinette couldn't shake off the sense of foreboding that had settled in her chest. The mysteries surrounding Gabriel Agreste, the Akumas, and the secrets of the palace weighed heavily on her mind. She still hadn't even finished her message to Chat. She knew that the night was far from over, and there were more challenges to face, but right now, she just wanted to breathe. Her breath formed little clouds in the chilly air, and the serene beauty of the palace gardens providing momentary respite. In and out, in and out, that was all she had to do right now. In, and--

An unwelcome voice cut through the night. It was Advisor Duval, his voice dripping with an unsettling blend of charm and malice. His sudden appearance sent a wave of dread coursing through Marinette, and memories from the year before flashed behind her eyes for what fel tlike the hundreth time that day.

"Princess Marinette," he purred, stepping closer with his eerie smile, making her skin crawl. "I'm glad I've found you alone for a moment."

Marinette's unease deepened as she exchanged pleasantries, maintaining a facade of professionalism. Voice sounding strained to hear own ears, she said, "What a strange coincidence."

The advisor's gaze lingered on her, his eyes roving over her with unsettling intensity. "You're doing well tonight," he said. His compliment did not sit well the same way that Tikki's did. "You seem to be enjoying your time as a princess," his words laden with veiled implications that Marinette couldn't quite read.

Marinette nodded curtly. "It's been... enlightening, Advisor Duval."

"And such a shame you have to do this, so soon after the attack."

Marinette stayed silent, his words requiring no response. A tense silence hung in the air for a few heartbeats before he leaned in closer, his warm breath feeling cold against her ear. "Do you remember last Halloween, my dear princess?"

Marinette's heart raced as she suddenly felt a chill crawl up her spine, stemming from within her. She couldn't forget. Her voice was tinged with trepidation as she asked, "Why?"

Before she could grasp the full weight of the situation, the patio doors closed silently, leaving Marinette trapped in an enclosed space with Advisor Duval. Panic surged through her as she realized that the guard who had been stationed outside were in on this encounter.

Before anything escalated, Marinette considered screaming for help. Desperation clawed at her throat, closing it, but Marinette heard the music and revelry inside the palace grow louder. The guests, now sufficiently tipsy from the wine, wouldn't be able to hear her cries for help. She had to tread carefully.

Hoping to stall for some time, Marirnette asked, "Are you an Akuma?" Though her voice quivered with a mixture of fear and defiance.

Advisor Duval scoffed, grabbing her arm with a tight grip. She could feel the bones in her arm push together, imagining her muscles ripping apart with the tenseness. He twisted her to face him head-on, and he growled with a whisper: , "I'm not a low-life, my dear princess. I simply need your word on something."

Marinette's eyes narrowed, her resolve hardening. "Words can be deceiving. I won't make any promises."

He squeezed tighter, and she gasped in pain, regretting the weakness immediately as he smirked.

"What is it that you want?" she demanded. 

His grip on her arm relaxed slightly, though the threat in his eyes remained unwavering. "I want assurance, Princess. When the time comes, when you ascend to the throne, I expect to become the main advisor."

Marinette tried to scoff, but it sounded more like a whimper. "You're not even a good lower-level advisor."

Her defiance seemed to enrage Duval, and he grabbed her other wrist with his large hand. She tried to wiggle her way out, but he was so much bigger than her, so much stronger. And if she was going to have to fight--and she would fight this time; maybe she hadn't changed much since last year, but she could say she was physically stronger than she'd been right out of her coma -- then she'd need to wait for the right moment. He growled at her again, "You have no idea what I'm capable of, Marinette. Do this for me, or you'll face consequences you can't even fathom."

Last year was right at the front of her brain. "You don't scare me," she lied. 

He glared, and the seconds that passed were slow. He was reading her, but what he was reading for, Marinette couldn't tell. She wouldn't give him the wrong answer, though. 

Their standoff was abruptly interrupted by the cheerful and tipsy arrival of Adrien, who emerged from the palace wearing a playful smile and swaying slightly. He greeted Marinette with a charming giggle.

"Weuld yew like to dance? Hahaha." He was clearly tipsy--how much did he drink just within the last few minutes?"

Marinette seized the opportunity, her voice light and relieved. "Of course, Adrien. I'd love to."

With a polite but tense nod, Advisor Duval stepped aside, feigning politeness as Adrien led Marinette away from the patio.

The atmosphere within the grand ballroom was electric as Marinette and Adrien disappeared from view, the lively music fading into the distance. Once hidden from prying eyes, Adrien's demeanor underwent a swift transformation. His jovial façade melted away, replaced by an expression of genuine concern.

"Marinette, are you okay?" he asked, his voice soft and filled with worry.

Marinette nodded, her shoulders slumping as the tension she'd been holding in finally found release. "I'm fine, Adrien. WWe were just.. We wanted to talk about last Halloween."

It wasn't a complete lie. They had discussed it, but there was so much more lurking beneath the surface—secrets, mysteries, and threats. And despite herself, she didn't trust Adrien to tell him. If she could go back 7 hours, tell Gabriel Agreste to leave before they spoke, maybe she would have told Adrien about Advisor Duval--about tonight as well as last year. 

But, that "What If" was too strong to fight.

They began to dance (Marinette awkwardly and Adrien with grace), though Marinette couldn't help but feel the weight of the day bearing down on her. All of it left her feeling drained.

As they moved to the music, Adrien attempted to lighten the mood. "You know, I haven't seen my father tonight," he remarked casually, his tone lacking the enthusiasm one would expect from a son speaking about his father. "He's probably swamped with work."

Marinette forced a playful smile. "Too busy to party? How dreadful," she teased.

However, Adrien's response was far from what she expected. He didn't laugh or offer a witty retort. Instead, a heavy silence settled between them as they continued to dance.

Feeling the need to break the silence, Marinette shifted the conversation to a more serious note. "Adrien," she began, feeling like this was one struggle she could give to him, "I can't help but think that all of this would be so much easier if my father were here—or at least, if the queen was here to handle all of the proprieties."

Adrien's gaze met hers, and he nodded in understanding. "I know it's a lot to bear, Marinette. But even if they were here, some responsibilities would still fall on your shoulders. You'd still have to talk to people, we'd still have to dance. Hell, I bet we'd have to talk to the queen... That's scarier than the rest."

Marinette sighed, resting her head on his shoulder as they swayed to the music. "I just wish I didn't have to do it alone."

Adrien gently caressed her back, a comforting gesture that spoke volumes. "You're not alone, Marinette. You have Tikki, and Plagg. And I'm right here with you."

Her heart warmed at his words, and she leaned into his touch, seeking solace in his presence. "You're right, Adrien." 

Just then, a familiar voice interrupted their intimate moment. Tikki tapped them both on the shoulders playfully. "Remember to keep some space between you two!" she chided with a mischievous grin.

Marinette and Adrien broke into laughter, the tension of the night momentarily forgotten. "I'm going to get some water. Want some?" she asked Adrien. "Gotta get some space," she teased.

He chuckled. "What kind of very real boyfriend would I be if I let you get it. I'll do that. Be right back." 

"Ok, I'll be over there," she said, pointing towards one of the corners. 

They walked in separate directions. She passed by the crowds of tipsy people, wishing she was having as much fun as they were. She stood against the wall, and suddenly, she felt a gentle but firm tug on her arm. Marinette tensed, ready to react, afraid Duval came back for seconds. She glanced around, and to her comfort, Luka stood guard just a few feet away. She opened her mouth to call to him, but the voice that met her ears was lovely, familiar, and she twisted to find two beautiful brown eyes that met hers, filled with urgency. 

It was Alya. Without a word, Alya pulled her into a closet. Marinette's heart raced, unsure of what had prompted this sudden, secretive meeting. Was she going to get yelled at? I mean, if roles had been reversed, Marinette would have yelled. 

But Alya wasted no time, her words rushed and hushed. "Marinette, I've got information on the Akumas, but we can't talk about it here. It's too risky."

Marinette's eyes widened. "Alya, what have you found? And, I miss you. I'm so sorry."

Alya quickly handed Marinette a burner phone and a slip of paper with a phone number written on it, shaking her head quickly. "Call this number on the other line. It's secure. We'll meet and talk."  

Marinette carefully stowed the burner phone in her garter, beside the concealed knife. The weight of the information and the risks involved pressed upon her, but she couldn't turn away. Alya was counting on her.

Alya's eyes sparkled with a mix of emotions, relief and concern evident in her gaze. "Marinette, promise me you'll call. This is important."

Marinette couldn't help but feel a rush of emotions as she hugged Alya tightly, a quick but heartfelt embrace. "I promise, Alya. I love you."

Alya smiled, but the sadness in it punched Marinette in the gut. Just as quickly as they'd entered the closet, Alya left.

As Marinette left, feeling a phone and knife between her legs, her head started to pound. She exited and made eye contact with Luka, who had been standing guard. For the first time since the bombing, he looked at her -- and he offered a knowing wink. Marinette nodded solemnly to him, acknowledging that their earlier tension might have eased. She stood against the wall as if nothing had happened as Adrien walked back to her. 

"Here you go, darling," he said. "A sparkly drink for the lovely lady." 

"How much longer until the night is over?" she asked, head pounding harder. The music felt too loud. 

He smiled. "Not long. I think people are starting to pack their things."

Marinette took her glass from his hand and drank it too fast, then grabbed Adrien's untouched drink and downed that one, too. 

"Thirsty?" he asked, laughter in his voice.

She nodded. "Something like that." 

As the night wore on, Marinette and Adrien continued to dance and mingle with the remaining guests. The party began to wind down, and many attendees bid their farewells as they headed home.

Marinette felt grateful as she watched the crowd thin out, the weight of the day and the secrets she carried slowly lifting. Despite the strange encounters and lurking dangers, she had Adrien by her side, and that provided her with some solace.

The rest of the night, Adrien didn't let her out of his sight, and his warm smile and gentle touch were a comforting presence amidst the chaos. However, Marinette couldn't shake the thought of her brief encounter with Alya and the looming promise to call the mysterious number. 

As the last guests departed, Adrien leaned in close, his voice a soft whisper. "I think it's time for us to head back, Princess."

Marinette nodded, feeling exhaustion seep into her bones. "Yes, I could use some rest."

They made their way towards the exit, hand in hand, and as they left the dance hall, into the main hall and up the stairs to their own rooms,  Marinette's thoughts turned back to the encounter with Gabriel Agreste and the unsettling message from Advisor Duval.

Adrien noticed the troubled look on her face and squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Are you okay, Marinette?"

She glanced up at him. No, she wasn't okay. She was scared. She was uncertain. She loved him. She didn't trust him. She didn't know why Gabriel didn't show up after saying he'd see her tonight. She didn't know what to do about Advisor Duval. She wanted to talk to Chat Noir, let him know the news -- but how could she do that without giving her identity away? Maybe it didn't matter at this point. She had to talk to Alya. She had to be princess--god, she had to be princess, and she was so scared of it. No, she wasn't okay. But she couldn't say that. 

"I'm fine, just tired. I think I'm starting to get a headache," she giggled, pointing at her temple. 

Adrien nodded in understanding, his eyes filled with empathy. "Let's get ya to bed then. "

Marinette managed a small smile and told her first full truth of the night. "Thank you, Adrien. I don't know what I'd do without you."

He leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. "You'll never have to find out."