Marinette's POV

The moment I "kissed" (Reader,) that night I stayed awake, screaming at myself for doing it.

'You indirectly cheated on Chat Noir. You bitch.' I cursed myself

My body was a mess, sweating in my bed even with the AC on. I kept blaming myself more and more.

I got up pacing the floor as the cool wind finally blew in my room, messing with my sleepwear.

"No Ladybug, you're perfect."

I gasped turning around with scissors in my fist, sending pens and pencils to the floor.

"Chat!?"

I looked around me, nothing.

"Very funny Tikki" I looked over at my drawer and saw she was sound asleep

"Ladybug, you're perfect." The voice said again

My eyes widened in shock.

"(R-Reader!?)"

"How-?"

"Y-you can communicate telepathically!?"

"Maybe-I guess?" He said

My heartrate increased, still seeing no one in my room, but hearing him perfectly in my head.

"I'm going insane." I said aloud

"No, but maybe I am? I have no idea what happened before you kissed me Ladybug, but I think...I think I'm getting flashbacks." He said

'He still thinks he's talking to Ladybug?' I thought

"(Reader,) I need you to calm down, okay? Where are you?"

"I'm at my cousin's place but be careful."

"Why?"

"I won't remember this...."

"Just stay there, I'm on my way."

I grabbed a cookie from my bag, giving it to Tikki as she woke up.

"You heard him too?" She asked waking up

"Yeah, something you didn't want to tell me?" I said annoyed

"Marinette, I'm just as shocked as you. Let's get to him."

"Alright, Tikki, spots on." I declared

The light of the moon held its veil over the sky, guiding me to Adrien's mansion.  The night could've been pitch black, the wind still would've guided me.

My feet clapped against the concrete, and wood jumping from rooftop to balcony reaching my destination.

"No more Leaps of Faith this time, got it?" Tikki said

"Yeah." I replied as I perched myself above (Reader's) window

I climbed down, about to go through when an alarm went off as it opened.  I scrambled back up to an outdoor garden filled with blue roses with white tips.  From the commotion and scrambling, I heard (Reader) wake up in a panic followed by Adrien's voice.

"You okay?" Adrien yelled

"I was till that alarm went off!" He yelled

I heard some loud beeps mixed with numbers, followed by silence.

"You sure you're alright?" Adrien asked shutting the alarm off

"Now I am, must've been the wind. Mind if I keep this open?"

"Go ahead dude. If you need me, don't set the alarm off." He joked

"Shut it." He said

"Ow! You hit me with your pillow!"

(Reader) chuckled as I heard his sheets rustle.

I grabbed one of the roses as I climbed down, seeing him sitting up, hands around his knees.

I bet he was so peaceful when he was sleeping. If he was, I would've been afraid to wake him.

"Ladybug?" He said

"Shhh, it's alright. I'm here now." I said tossing his pillow next to him

"It's fine, cousin sleeps like a rock. He can't hear us." He said shuffling beneath his covers

I chuckled as he did just that, sitting on the edge of his bed while I walked towards him.

"H-Here you go.  I..ran into Marinette today and she w-wanted me to give you this." I said mentally slapping myself for my stuttering

He sniffed it, closing his eyes.

"My family has roots with this, pun intended." He said flatly

"Har har, Chat 2.0." I said sitting next to him

"Nah, there's only one master at terrible puns. I don't know whether to laugh or facepalm at them from what Alya's told me."

"My recommendation, the latter."

"Alright, hot off the presses." He joked

Smelling the rose again, his eyes seemed to sparkle and go wide after opening them again.

"You said you were 'here now'?  So, you weren't...here before?" He trailed off at a stand still

'Could this be one of the effects of the Akuma?' I thought

"I just had this feeling to see if you're okay. What you're going through is rough...and not just losing your parents, from what Marinette told me." I replied

He sighed from confusion, lifting the silent-quiet persona he's kept.

"Not that I mind, but why are you here?" He asked

"Call me crazy, but I think..." I trailed off looking at his covered arm

"Show me your hand." I said as he revealed it seeing Hawkmoth's symbol

"Just as I feared, you have an Akuma inside you."

"A what?"

"You know the villains Lady Wi-Fi and The Evillustrator right?" I asked

"How could I forget? They kidnapped and drugged me."

"The Akuma is what turned them evil.  They start out white when they're pure, and when they're charged, well...what's on your hand is the textbook example.  When Lady Wi-Fi and The Evillustrator become akumatized, they usually have something with them the Akuma attaches to.  Then Hawkmoth would give them orders and turn them into supervillains.  When I break what gives them their power, it flies out and I purify it." I explained

"So, what happened with me?  Adrien showed me some news footage, but I don't remember anything." He said

"When Chat broke your guitar, nothing happened.  Not what the Akuma attached to, which was beyond abnormal." I continued

"So, I guess...it's is 'unique' for lack of a better word." He said

I looked at his arms as his veins glowed a light purple now and then as they faded back to their normal light blue.

"The nurse said she and the doctors noted how odd this is, before the explosion.  Thank you, for getting us out of there."

"No need." I said fixing his hair

"Even stranger, they tested me for anything and everything under the sun, came out clean as a whistle.  Must've been the wine I had on the flight here that cleaned me out." He half-joked

"So, how would you...purify this Akuma inside me?" He asked

"You said you were drugged; do you remember how?"

"Lady Wi-Fi yelled 'syringe' and Evillustrator sketched it, she stuck it in my neck." He said

"Let me see."

He pulled his collar aside, revealing a glowing purple mark.  I reached out to touch it when my eyes widened seeing other scars, I assumed were from Evillustrator and Lady Wi-Fi.

"Does this hurt?" I asked pressing around the mark

"Nope."

I got closer, another shake of the head.

My fingers pressed on the mark, a grunt and his gritted teeth confirmed my suspicions.

I sighed softly as my fingers left him, fixing his collar.

"I haven't experienced this yet, neither has Chat Noir. Sorry I'm not of much help." I said feeling crestfallen

"I know that's not what you wanted to hear, but we can figure something out." I continued

His eyes suddenly flashed purple.

"Kill me."

His words drained the color from my face, and the rest of me in this skintight suit.

"It's the only way, right? Maybe then I'll finally be able to feel something."

"Pardonnez-moi mon amour."

Forgive me my love.

"What-?"

I slapped him across the face as tears welled up in my eyes.

I quickly grabbed him by the collar again, getting in his face as I whispered intently.

"I will NOT let you take the coward's way out over something trivial as this." I said

"This isn't trivial, it's life-threatening." He replied as his eyes got brighter

"Yes, you have an Akuma inside you, I just said we'll figure something out and you want to die instead?  And for what?  You just want to throw your life away, so you can 'feel something'?  Do you not know the weight of the words you said?" I asked as my eyes started to feel strained

"You don't know my life; I have nothing to live for." He said as his voice changed pitch

I didn't flinch or back away, remaining in my spot, tightening my grip on him.

"My parents are dead, the only family I have is this distant cousin I know virtually nothing about, and I'm in a foreign *fucking* country till god knows when." He said as his eyes kept glowing brighter, almost blinding

I let go of his collar, not breaking my sight.

As he started crying, they returned to their natural brown orbs.

"I'm sorry I yelled at you, that warrants death itself."

Hearing his voice suddenly made me up my defenses, but I kept this at the forefront as he calmed down.

"I will not kill you, not now or ever." I said

We stayed silent as the wind came through, playing with my twin tails.

"Ladybug, I truly am sorry for yelling at you." He told me breaking the air

"That wasn't you, it was the Akuma.  Your eyes turned purple when you were talking like that." I said

I hugged him tightly as I felt tears leave his cheeks onto my shoulders.

From this hug, I felt the regret in his heart leave.  I felt the stinging pain of guilt as soon as it left, his chest falling. His body relaxing into mine.

"Here, here, here." I whispered

His chest fell one last time as a repressed exhale left his lungs, those soft yet rough arms leaving me.

(Reader) left his bed, leaning against the open window to compose himself.  His eyes stared out at the city lights in the distance.

"Who knew you spoke French?" I finally said

"One of my classes I'm taking.  Marinette is an amazing tutor.  She's really proud of my progress." He said not turning around

I chuckled, testing his knowledge.

"How about this?  Je suis votre ange."

He shook his head, walking back to me and crossing his arms.

"I'm your angel." I said

"Let my wings lift you up//bring you more than good luck//Let me be your protector" I said

"I got chills, Ladybug." He said

"That's my wings landing on your shoulders." I said resting my arm there

I softly pecked his cheek.

"Our secret." I whispered

He sealed his lips and smiled.

"There's that smile I missed."

I looked down, seeing the same purple necklace still hanging around his neck.

"Nice necklace, is that where the Akuma attached to?"

"No clue."

"I do know that after you changed back, it just showed up. Should I..."

"Go ahead, worst that happens is that you break it and it's not gonna fly out."

He unclipped it from his neck, and I threw it to the ground seeing it virtually shatter.

Then it floated back to me, landing in my hand, unbroken.

"Well, that happened." He said amused

The charm changed from a small piano to a guitar, then a purple neon cross.

"That too." He said surprised

"Seems like the Akuma is powering the necklace through you.  I know you don't remember transforming, but can you try it while I'm here?"

He nodded as the charm changed back to the piano, regaining its place on his neck.  Between flicking it with his fingers, twirling it, and covering it with his hand, nothing happened even with a clenched fist.  As soon as said fist fell to his side, his eyes glowed purple again as he floated with a mist forming around him.  The same outfit before dawned his body.

Hearing Hawkmoth speak through him shocked me to the core.

"Rion!  It seems you are having trouble with these powers I've given you.  When you changed back, that wasn't by your hand.  You are *my* villain, *my* puppet!  This is your last chance to bring me Ladybug and Chat Noir's miraculous or I will unleash the *full power* of the Akuma in your body!  You will shut down and be no more.  But, isn't that what you want?  You just said so yourself that you wanted to die when I came through you." I heard Hawkmoth say

(Reader) was still floating when I grabbed his necklace from his neck and tore it off.

"What!?" I said

"Ladybug, I know you can hear me.  You will NOT purify the greatest villain I've finally created!  He is under MY control!  Temporarily, but still able to bend to my will!  Purify him, you'll regret it!  It won't be long before Chat Noir shows up with you to meet his doom!" Hawkmoth said as the mist finally cleared as (Reader) crashed to the floor, passed out in his pajamas again

"It's settled, I'm staying with you tonight.  Screw Chat if he gets jealous.  From now on, I'm your bodyguard; where you go, I go.  Whatever happens, we'll face it together." I said placing him back in his bed as I pulled up a seat next to him

With the moon's rays painting my suit and tied up twin tails with a clear mist, making some loose strands glow from my peripheral vision, a yawn escaped my lungs.

"Okay 'Adele', you know you have school in the morning?  On top of that, you have your class election!  You have to prepare another speech just like last time." Tikki said

"Tikki, I'll be fine.  I already texted Alya, we have an Ace up our sleeve." I said soon dozing off in the chair as my eyelids grew heavy

Mère de l'Éternel, aider à surmonter cette adversité

Garder son cœur pur et aimant

Aide-moi à être sage et vrai

Comme je suis son protecteur terrestre

Avec le mien et le vôtre

Nous sommes imparables

En son nom, je prie

Amen

Eternal Mother, help him overcome this adversity

Keep his heart pure and loving

Help me be wise and true

As I'm his Earthly protector

With mine and Yours

We are unstoppable

In His name, I pray

Amen

The morning I woke up, (Reader) was still asleep, his chest rising and falling as his veins are still glowing that light purple color.  I fixed his slightly messy hair as I went to the open window, looking back at him one last time.

"Gotta go, bug out." I said swinging my way back to my bedroom

I dropped through the door from my balcony to my bed in one swift motion, getting another much-needed minute of sleep with Tikki following suit.

The alarm went off, signaling my urgent need for a shower.

"Blech, hopefully (Reader) didn't notice Ladybug's smell." I said to myself as the steam floated passed me

"Referring to yourself in third person, that's new." (Reader) said in my head

"Ahhhhhhhh!  Wait, again? How are you doing this?" I said covering myself instinctively as the warm water ran down my back, my body wash hitting the floor

"Honey!?  Are you okay?  I heard you scream." Mom called out

"I-I'm fine Mom, just dropped a bottle of body wash!" I yelled

The hallway door closed as I sighed in short-lived relief.

"S-sorry (Reader).  You were saying?"

"I don't know, I'm still sleeping but I wanted to thank you for what you did last night." He replied

"Don't mention it, you be careful at school okay?  I gotta take care of something important, but if you want, we could talk again?  Preferably face to face, awkward doesn't begin to describe this."

"S-Sure.  Maybe we can figure out what's causing this too?"

"Already have an idea actually, it might be part of your 'powers' if I had to guess." I said washing my hair

"Thanks Ladybug, I'll be careful.  I'll tell Marinette good luck from you today; she has a big Class Representative re-election campaign."

"I'm sure she'll appreciate that.  Something tells me you'll have a welcoming committee when you get there today.  See ya."

"See you Ladybug."

Concluding my shower with droplets trailing behind me in the towel, I dried myself off when Tikki came in.

"Someone got spooked." She said

"Hush you." I smirked tickling her

"So, what's this ace up your sleeve for your re-election?"

"There's no rule for the class rep having someone speak for a certain club, sooooo-" I said smiling as Tikki caught on

I tossed some clothes behind me on the lounge.

"You're going to have (Reader) speak for the music club to keep it alive!" She smiled

"Precisely.  Watch out Chloe, the musicians will rise at College Francoise Dupont." I said getting dressed

Call from: Alya

"Morning Alya." I said grabbing a shirt to cover my chest

"Getting sexy for Adrien, huh?" She said with a smirk

"Maybe I am." I half-joked

She's right, I am trying to look my best for Adrien.  Even if it's the same outfit I've been wearing for the past few years.  I gotta change up my style.

"Girl, you gotta have another date with him.  You said it yourself, the movie night went great!"

"Except that we didn't kiss." I said tossing the phone on my lounge

"Not every first date has to end with that.  Maybe he's the shy one?"

"Please, if anyone's shy it's me." I said slipping on my shirt and jacket

"Just keep up that positive attitude, and don't improv.  You'll be golden."

"The date or the campaign?" I smirked grabbing it

Alya chuckled.

"Thanks for the encouragement, I guess.  You ready for today?"

"Of course!  Did you tell him our plan?"

"Not yet, I was hoping to tell him when we get there."

"Dude, send him a text.  He'd appreciate a bit of a heads up."

"Alright." I said rolling my eyes sending it

"You really think this is a good idea?"

"Marinette, you just thought of the greatest strategy for our campaign, and you're second guessing yourself?  It's a phenomenal idea!"

"Thanks for the pep talk, see you in a few."

"See ya."

Reader's POV

On the ride to school, I got a text from Marinette.

Marinette: Hey (Reader.)  Sorry to spring this on you, but you're the ace up our sleeve we need for the re-election campaign.  You love music as much as me and Alya, maybe more.  So, you're perfect to speak on behalf of the Band Club! We'll talk more later! :)

(Reader): Oh wow, thanks! I'll do my best!

I was dropped off with Adrien, hearing some students clapping as we walked up.  Said clapping turned into applause as we walked through the door.

During the sound of applause, I rushed to cover up my hand, adjusting my jacket sleeve.

Me and Adrien received hugs and tons of 'welcome back's, 'glad you're here's, among other caring words and gestures.

The biggest hug I received was from Alix.

"I was worried sick, I'm glad you're walking tall.  You're showing Hawkmoth who's the REAL hero!" She said as more applause erupted when Ladybug came swinging in

"Hey Adrien, (Reader), I'm glad you two made it out alive.  Looks like you were on a few people's minds." She said smiling as Alix hugged my arm nearly revealing the Akuma on my left hand

"You and me both." Adrien said

"Marinette found this the other day, said it belonged to you." Ladybug said handing me my bracelet with the writing on the inside

"Thank you for everything. I'll never-" I said hugging her

"Easy there, you're not in my debt.  I'm just doing what anyone does, helping those in need." She said

"If something happened to my cousin, I don't know what I'd do." Adrien said

'You've known me for what...two weeks? Or three? Family is family though.' I thought

"Well, gotta bug out!" She said swinging away

The Principal's voice came through the loudspeaker.

"Alright everyone, we're all glad to have a fellow student back after the Akuma attack yesterday. Finish up your 'welcome back's', then head to your scheduled classes.  Welcome back (Reader), you're already becoming quite the popular pupil." Mr. Damocles said

Descending from the high of the welcoming committee, and meeting Ladybug again; Adrien and I went into first period, turning in our homework to Miss Bustier.

The morning lecture went by quickly, with accompanying notes and our grades.

90-A

See me after class.

When the rest of Miss Bustier's lecture concluded, she made an announcement.

"Good work as always my students.  As you know, Class Representative elections are underway again.  Marinette, I assume you and Alya will be running for re-election?"

"Yes, Miss Bustier."

Chloe spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.

"I'm announcing my run against Marinette."

"Why don't you tell them why you're running?" Marinette said with sass evident in her voice

All eyes turned to Chloe again, who stood her ground.

"I'm running to dismantle the Band Club, and I'm going to win!"

"Miss Bustier, I have an announcement of my own.  We're recruiting (Reader) to represent the club in our campaign.  We simply won't go down without a fight."

The tone of the room changed, when a short glance confirmed that all eyes lingered to me; including Adrien's.  All I could do was look at the floor and try to glance at my other classmates. That just made it worse, so I looked back to Marinette and Chloe.

Determination filled her and Chloe's eyes as the afternoon bell rang with gasps from everyone, while me, Alya and Marinette were silent.

"Okay, it's settled. Best of luck to both candidates!" She said cheerfully as the class filed out

"I'll be out in a few." I said turning to Adrien

He nodded while I copied the rest of the board on my tablet, doing the same in my notebook.

Echoes of the door closing stopped Miss Bustier's grading to speak with me.

"How are you fitting in?" She asked with a smile

"Pardon Ma'am?"

"How're you doing outside the classroom? Join any clubs yet?"

"The Music Club for one.  Marinette showed me a few moves in the Kick Boxing Club after my first day, that was fun." I said smiling

"Any other friends besides Marinette and Alya?"

"Alix, still yet to meet some of Marinette's other friends."

"She's really nice in and outside academics, and don't worry; you'll get to know more people soon.  From the welcoming you and Adrien received, I got the notion that you know most of them." She said smiling

"Thanks.  I wouldn't say I 'know them' that well other than 'hi's' and hearsay from Adrien or Alya.  She told me the day I flew in that Nathaniel is artistic and likes writing.  Got a feeling we'll bond quickly." I said still stealing glances at the floor

"Seems like you're doing well...very well in-fact." She said looking over my homework

My arms hoisted my bag on the desk as I slide my textbook inside first, leaving the notebooks and tablet for last.

"Thank you, Ma'am, I always aim for high grades.  Back in the States I had the same work ethic; you won't have to worry about me falling behind." I said

"When we received your transcript, I honestly had no doubts.  Do you need more tutoring with the French material?"

"It honestly wouldn't hurt...Miss Bustier." I said starting to take out a few sheets

"We can work after your classes finish for today."

"Excellent, thank you so much."

"How do you feel being part of Marinette's campaign?"

"I'm still surprised.  It's honestly a bit overwhelming.  Never did anything like this, let alone speaking for a certain club.  There's no other one I'd rather represent though.  We jammed together one day and had a blast.  Alya on drums, Marinette on piano, and me on guitar." I said

"It sounds like you all had a fun time, I'd love to hear what you've recorded."

"Thanks, when we jam more often, I'll be sure to share it with you."

"It's a deal.  You're doing well in your other classes too, from what I've been hearing.  There's always extra credit."

"Always. Thanks Miss Bustier."

"You're welcome, that is all."

Slinging my packed bag over my shoulder, I softly shut the door walking down the steps with Adrien.

"I'm fine, better than fine actually. She's impressed with my grades."

"As am I, told you you'd get better with French."

"Yeah, overall I'm doing great in my other classes-"

"Hey! Band Club Representative! Over here!" Alya called out

I turned to Adrien.

"Guess I'll-"

Her arm dragged me to a bench, plopping me down next to her and Marinette.

"Call you then?"

"Alright Maestro, any ideas?" She asked

I raised my pointer finger, still hiding my Akuma.

"One, I'm no Maestro.  Two, I'm not good with school elections, and I'm mediocre at best with music, I gotta improve a lot."

"Don't be so modest, we've seen you play.  You got skills."

I dropped the backpack at my feet, leaning back slightly against the bench.

"In a perfect setting with just us three, yes."

"Don't forget, after this we have a piano lesson." Marinette chimed in

"Right."

"Alright, step one for school elections: Speech." Marinette said

"I drafted a few remarks for our re-election, even referenced that one Akuma attack I helped everyone survive." She continued

"Holy, how'd you do it?  You weren't akumatized?"

"I told everyone how to barricade the door, splitting them into groups before I was akumatized into one of Darkblade's knights."

"Any memories of being akumatized?"

"Not a thing.  Alright, speech speech speech!" She said clapping her hands

I looked over it, saying that their vote stands for keeping the perfected model they've earned, addressing student concerns, expanding existing clubs.

Band Club:

Nothing.

"That's where you come in." Marinette said

"Why not have Alya speak for the Band Club? She's a way better musician."

"I play the drums, but I'm intermediate at best."

"You're already months away for me, and I haven't learned them yet."

"You'll be fine man, just write from the heart, speak the truth, and appeal to the crowd." Alya said

"That simple huh?"

They nodded.

"What about a promo video for our campaign?"

"Good idea, I'll get some B-roll footage of everyone.  You and Marinette can get set up in the club room."

"S-Sure." She said

Alya rolled on her camera as we went to the club room.

"I guess Band and Music club are interchangeable?"

"Yeah, same thing.  You know they just let this room sit empty till 4 months ago?"

"Seriously?"

"Yep.  Till Alya pitched the idea, then donations flooded in.  Even got its full endorsement from Jagged Stone!  I designed his album cover!"

"Who?"

"You don't know Jagged Stone!?  He's only one of my all-time favorite rock stars!  He's so inspirational, I love his music!  The hair, his voice, his guitar skills!"

I smiled, relating all too well with idolizing a favorite artist.

"Talk about being starstruck am I right?"

"Whaaaaaat?  Naaaaaaah, not even....okay I was a teeeeeny bit star struck."

She opened the door and went to the piano nearest the first computer while I dropped my bag on the choir stands.

"Alright tech savvy, get us started."

"Already on it." I said turning on the corresponding computer, starting the recording software

"You hooked up?"

"Alright, turn your volume down on the keyboard, and play something."

She played a few chords and scales as the sound resonated through the headphones.  I gave her a thumbs up, adding the club's acoustic guitar to the program.  Unpacking a mic from the cabinet, I hooked it up on the stand, plugging it into the interface, positioning it by the sound hole with a pop filter.  I began playing a few notes checking the levels.  I pressed record, giving her the thumbs up again as we started to play.

I started with a simple riff as she improvised with me, then I let a note ring out as I slide a capo on the 5th fret, playing chords and fingerstyle improvising over her awesome piano skills now. We kept this up for a few minutes before letting the last notes ring out as I stopped the recording.

"That was amazing!" Marinette said

"You sure you need piano lessons?"

"Yeeeeees, I'm sure I do. I'm mediocre."

"Don't they teach here?"

"Used to, same with guitar and drums.  Adrien taught me some stuff too before we stopped."

"Guess that's something we could add to our campaign." I said

"Sure.  An endorsement from Jagged Stone won't be a problem, he donated a huge chunk last time, but we'll need more than just him.  Like Alya tells me all the time 'equipment like this costs a huge chunk to keep'.  Even just renting this stuff makes a huge dent in the school's budget.  We even had a scare with theft, luckily whoever it was got caught."

"Well that explains why Alya and you are the only ones with keys to this place."

"Just us, and a few other teachers.  We always lock this place up tight when we're done."

"Hey!  Sorry it took me so long; I got enough b-roll at least for our promo vid.  Ready to add drums to this masterpiece?"

"Here, wanna listen?" Marinette asked tossing her a pair of headphones

"Careful girl!  This stuff isn't cheap." She said slipping them on as she pressed play

I rested the guitar on the stand as I miced up the drum kit, making sure there was almost no tangle with the cables.

"This is really good; this doesn't need drums actually."

"You sure?" We both asked at the same time

"Yeah, you two play great together.  And you said you needed piano lessons!"

"I do! Shush."

"We'll just do another track.  Thanks for micing me up (Reader.)"

"You're welcome." I said saving our project as R+M Demo 1 with the date

I opened a new track, adding our instruments.

"Alright, play a basic groove."

She did just that as I adjusted the levels.

"You're good.  Marinette?"

She played a few notes, but no sound came through.  I double checked the connection; it was fine.

"Try again?"

Still nothing.

"Wait, hang on." I said walking to the piano

I crawled underneath, unplugging the chord and plugging it back in at both ends

"One more time."

Success.  I grabbed the acoustic, taking the capo off and grabbing a pick as I started another recording session.

We played a similar groove from before, then we changed it a ton when Alya came in, giving the drums a rock-blues type vibe.  She says she's intermediate, but from where I'm playing, she's selling herself short.  Guess this is how she got into playing drums?

"Alriiiiiiiight! Campaign gold!  The best part, I recorded it!" She said stopping the video on her phone

"Sweet!  More like Campaign platinum!" Marinette cheered

Looking down at my left hand with the Akuma on it, my stomach dropped.

"Any ideas on how to cover 'this' up?" I asked showing them

"Geez dude, that's new for Hawkmoth.  How'd it happen?" Alya asked

"No idea."

"Lemme see." Alya said grabbing it, looking it over

"In public, a little make-up will hide it fine actually.  For this, just some post-production touch ups."

"Ladybug was perplexed too when she saw it."

"You met Ladybug again!?  When?"

"Last night, came to check on me."

"I think someone's won her heart."

"Quit it Alya, she told me she's looking into a solution.  What that is, we don't know; at least not yet."

"If anyone, I think Chat Noir stole her heart long before I came here."

Marinette laughed, joining in.

"Please, from what she's told me, the relationship isn't much aside from flirting and bad puns."

Marinette paused, as if she's afraid to ask what's on her mind.

"So, does this mean...you're a villain?"

"If so, I have no memory of it.  I can't control whatever...this is either."

"Will it be a problem during the campaign?" Alya asked

"Like you said, just some make-up on it and I'll be fine...till I'm not."

"As much as Alya thinks she's got the 411 on Ladybug, I think she trusts me more." Marinette smirked

"That so?  Well, if I get the next scoop, you'll be the last to know."

They continued their talks about the campaign while I unplugged everything, sliding the equipment back in the right case and closing the cabinet.  Alya locked it as I saved our session.

"Just a few more tweaks in the mix and these will be good to go." I said

"Looks like you two are good, I'll text you guys later." Marinette said grabbing her bag and heading to her next class

"Don't worry about that Akuma on your hand, you'll be fine.  From what we saw in the hospital, you're a fighter.  It'll take a lot more than this setback to keep you away from saving this club." Alya said

"Thanks." I said grabbing my bag walking with Alya to the one class we shared

Physics.  If French isn't my downfall, then this is. Good thing I take great notes, my only saving grace for this travesty of a subject.

The final bell signaled my tutoring session.

I walked back into Miss Bustier's classroom, sitting at the first desk.

"Ah, welcome back.  Go ahead and get set up, I'll be with you shortly."

Sliding my folder and notebook out, I checked the homework, class notes, and re-checked them to refresh my mind.

1 New Message - Adrien

Adrien: Fencing practice.  After we're done, I'm taking you on another shopping trip.

(Reader): But I have new outfits already.  I'll wear one of them tomorrow.

Adrien: I'm gonna teach you the basics of modeling for photoshoots.

(Reader): Alright?  In a tutoring session, text you later.

The tutoring session was everything but the "dragging on" feeling. I think I'm getting a better grasp on the material and speaking it.

We went through a few more speaking drills, working on my accent.

"I'm impressed (Reader.)  Just work on your accent and pronunciations, you're doing great."

"Thank you Miss Bustier." I said leaving

(Reader): Just finished, waiting by the doors.

1 New Message - Adrien

Adrien: Alright, be there in a few.

"Hey Quiet and Sweet." Alya said tapping my shoulder

"Hey." I said not turning to her

"You'll be fine, Akuma and campaign wise.  Ya said you had to change the mix levels in the songs we did?"

"Yeah, but if cuz wasn't picking me up I'd do it.  Going on another shopping spree apparently."

"Nice, have fun."

"Thanks, he's gonna teach me modeling for photoshoots."

"What's there to teach from what we saw a week ago?"

"A lot." I said

My hand was grabbed, revealing my Akuma.

"H-"

"Let me cover this up, last thing we need is this out in the public eye."

"Alright?"

She took out some light make-up and a brush.

"Just don't shower till you're done with this shopping spree, and you're golden till tomorrow."

"I'll just give you this, apply it before school.  I have more of this anyway."

"I'll admit, this is a first.  I don't know whether to feel thankful or awkward." I said trying to break the ice

"It's just a precaution.  Till Ladybug and Chat think of something."

"Yeah." I said

"Alright, we're done."

I looked down, impressed.

"Wow, you can't see it."

"You're welcome.

Adrien grabbed my shoulder.

"You ready?"

"Sure. Thanks again Alya."

"Don't mention it."

Alya's POV

I did a damn good job covering his hand, he'll cover it on his own no problem.

1 New Message - Marinette

Marinette: Just finished my last class, kill me now.

Me: I hear it, we barely made it through Physics.

Marinette: You cover (Reader's) hand?

Me: Yep, can't tell it was there.

Marinette: Thanks, you helped me dodge a bullet there.

Me: Oh?

Marinette: I'll call you tonight about that.  Back to the campaign video, how we looking?

I was gonna reply when I got another text.

1 New Message - (Reader)

(Reader): Thanks again for covering my hand, I'll send you the travesty job when I try it.

Me: You'll do fine, don't worry.  I'll update you on our campaign video when I start editing.

(Reader): Sweet.  I can help you if you need it.

Me: I might take you up on that.

I went back to Marinette's text.

Me: Haven't started editing it yet girl, give me some time. ;)

"Sounds good to me." She said walking out with me

"So, what bullet did you dodge with (Reader?)"

"I *told* you, I'll tell you tonight."

"Nope. You, me, the park. Now." I said taking her hand

Reader's POV

We were at the same store from a few days ago, already pointing out what stuff I got in my head.

"Alright, pick some stuff and come out."

"I told you, I already have some outfits from that generous shopping spree."

"Shush, this is an important lesson."

"Yeah, yeah." I said grabbing some gray shorts, matching belt, black flannel button-up and white V-neck, keeping my gray high-tops on from said previous shopping spree

"Alright, that'll do. It's all about the walk. Back straight, wave, and confidence." He said demonstrating

"Don't forget the smile, teeth, no teeth, doesn't matter."

"Alright?" I said trying it myself

"You're too stiff, loosen those shoulders, relax."

"Easy for you Mr. Cover Teen Weekly." I said

"It gets easier, now do it again."

I followed his advice, minus the smile.

"Just do that last part, and you're fine. Don't force it, be yourself."

"Thanks for the encouragement."

I went back inside, changing to my street clothes.

"Wait, you don't want that outfit?"

"I told you, I'll wear some of the new threads I got the other day. You still didn't need to do that."

"You're family, modeling and music are in our blood.  The two of us would be a good team.  Of course, there's all the publicity we'll have to get out there for you, more headshots, boring stuff."

"That doesn't seem boring to me."

Because I've been at this just a tad longer." He said jabbing my shoulder

1 New Message - Alix

Alix: Hey (Reader.)  How you holding up?

(Reader): Decent for lack of a better word.  Cuz taught me modeling basics.

Alix: Oh nice!  I bet you're better at it than him.

(Reader): Thanks, but he's been waaaay ahead of me.  Could be fun though.

Alix: Yeah, I've helped Marinette out a few times, you get used to it.

Alix: So, if you're not doing anything tonight, movie?  Game night?  What you thinking?

(Reader): Game night sounds like a good time.

Alix: Sweet. Bring your comfy clothes, cause you'll need them after the ass whoopin I'll hand ya.

(Reader): Likewise ;)

Alix: Pick you up at 8?

(Reader): 8 it is.

Marinette's POV

I guess Alya really wants to know what 'bullet' I dodged with (Reader,) sitting us on a bench that baked in the heat.

"You couldn't have picked a cooler one?"

"Irrelevant girl, now tell me.  What's up with you?"

"I was worried about messing up while covering (Reader's) Akuma."

"Really? That's it, Marinette don't try to fool me, there's something deeper going on."

I exhaled, letting my thoughts free.

"Alya, please be honest with me.  Where do I stand...where do we stand with (Reader?)"

She stayed silent for a moment.

"Well, I would say we're...decent friends.  Even if he's quiet most of the time."

"Is he okay?  Is he hiding anything?"

"Girl, what happened with him will take more than 3 weeks to process.  If that's what you mean."

"There's something else too.  When I felt his hand during our tutoring session, my stutter acted up just as I do with Adrien."

"So?  Everyone stutters to an extent.  You're with him, right?"

"Yeah."

"Are you happy?"

"Beyond belief."

"Good, just focus on that.  No one else but you two."

My legs shook slightly as I smiled.

"Sure t-thing."

"Do you have another date set?"

My breathing hitched.

"N-not yet.  But I thought we could do something tonight."

"Okay, that's good, text him. Right now."

I took out my phone, my hand shaking.

"Marinette?"

"Yeah?"

"Just focus on Adrien, don't worry about anyone else."

Incoming Call

"Hello?"

"Is this Marinette Dupain-Cheng?" Mr. Agreste asked

My chest dropped to my stomach.

"U-Uh.  O-One second."

"Who is it girl?"

"G-Gabriel  Agreste!"

"Answer it! Answer it!"

"I'm on the phone!" I whisper-hissed at her, turning back to my phone

"Y-Yes Mr. Agreste, but please call me Marinette."

"Thank you, Marinette.  Word through my son is that you're running for re-election to save the music club at your school.  As you know, the arts are a valuable part of education, and to my son and new nephew.  For your campaign, I am giving you the opportunity to design a custom fashion line dedicated to a cause as noble as keeping music alive at College Francoise Dupont. Also, I will be donating a total of 20 million euros to cover any necessary expenses. So, Marinette, are you in?"

"W-woah Mr. Agreste.  That's...I'm speechless!"

"So that's a yes?"

"Yes! I accept!  Thank you so much Mr. Agreste, you won't regret this."

"From the work you've done for my son, I had no hesitation.  If needed I'll let you use my exclusive studio, any materials you require, I will make them available. No. Cost."

"M-Mr. Agreste, now I'm really speechless."

"Please, no need.  Music has been in our family for generations, I'm just doing what I can do to protect it.  Best of luck to you and your staff Marinette."

"W-wait, how did you get my number?"

"Natalie keeps tabs on everything involving my son."

"T-Thank you again."

"Can you start today?"

I almost dropped my phone.

"Y-yes!"

"Excellent, I will have my driver pick you up when you're ready."

"Sounds good, thank you again. Goodbye."

When I hung up, I nearly fell off the bench.

Alya caught me, holding me steady.

"What is it sister!?"

"Mr. Agreste is wanting me to make a custom fashion line for our campaign!  And, he's donating 20 MILLION euros to cover any expenses!  He wants me to start today!"

"What did you say!?"

"Didn't you hear me!?  I said YES!"

We hugged each other as Alya spun me around.

"EEEEEEEEEEEEEE!  This is AMAZING!  Talk about a campaign surprise! 20 million euros!?  That'll cover all expenses even after we graduate!"

"I still can't believe this!"

"Tell Adrien!  Looks like you two have another 'date' in the works." Alya said smiling

"I'm sure he already knows Alya, but this is work.  Not a date." I said still recovering from the high

"But it can be."

"Okay, shush!  I gotta get home!  I gotta shower!  Shower 4 times!  I need my sketchbook, my mannequin-"

"Go go go!"

I ran home as fast as my legs could take me, texting Adrien as I walked up the stairs to our apartment.

Me: ADRIEN!  Your father wants me to make a fashion line for my campaign!  He's donating 20 MILLION EUROS TO COVER ALL EXPENSES TO THE SCHOOL!  He wants me to start TODAY!  I'M BEYOND THRILLED!

Adrien: Already knew, you can thank me later ;)

Me: T-That was YOUR IDEA!?

Adrien: He already wanted to help; I just sweetened the deal.  Long story short, I'm doing a LOT more extra studies.  See you tonight!

Me: S-see you tonight! <3 :*

"Mom! Dad!" I yelled rushing through the door

My bag tumbled across the couch. I didn't let them ask before I told them.

"Mr. Agreste is having me make my own fashion line to save the music club at school!  He wants me to start today! He's also made a completely unnecessary donation to the tune of 20 million euros!"

"We know!  Honey, we are so proud of you!" Dad said as they gave me a bear hug

"Your FIRST fashion line!  Baby, I can't be a prouder mom than I am now!

"This is such a huge accomplishment!  We know you'll knock them dead." Dad said messing up my hair

"How did you know?"

"Adrien told us.  We're just as surprised.  We are so proud of you my sweetheart!" Mom said pelting my forehead with kisses

"Alright, I gotta shower!"

I grabbed a towel, hanging my purse on the towel rack.

"Wow Marinette!  Putting your name on a project like this!?  That's-"

"Amazing, I know Tikki. Thanks."

"Sounds like the perfect date." She said smiling as I stripped to my birthday suit

"You're right Tikki, but I need to focus." I said

"Yes, focus is important Marinette, but you can't let this overwhelm you.  Turn it into a double date with friends."

"Rose and Nathaniel seem like a good match.  Between us, we'll get a lot of stuff done."

"Excellent!" Tikki said as the water drenched my hair

Reader's POV

"So, I got a date with Alix later, game night."

"Nice man, when?"

"Eight."

"Guess you'll need this." He said handing me the bag with the outfit I just modeled

I sighed.

"Quit. It."

"Ahahahaha, no."

"Guess I'll throw this on and bring a pair of comfy clothes."

He smiled as we got in his limo.

"What?"

"I may or may not have helped your chances of winning the campaign."

"How so?"

He whispered the truth in my ear.

"You're serious?"

"Yes I am."

"What if he's only doing this to keep up his good image?  That's what he said about bringing me here."

"My father may be heartless at times, but next to fashion, his other top priority is music.  You are part of our musical legacy after all."

"Says the concert pianist."

"I'm intermediate.  I won't be selling out any concert halls yet, but I'll get there.  You too."

"If you're serious about music being our legacy, then I don't see how we could lose."

"Just think of the publicity if you-know-who showed up." He whispered

"Yeah, seems the ladies love him." I joked

We walked back inside as he led me to a back room behind the library.

"This is my father's design studio.  You've seen it, said fashion statement was conceived here."

Fashion mannequins everywhere, scissors, fabrics, measuring tables, anything and everything a designer needs.

"Wow, I'm no designer, but this place is top notch."

"If you-wait, you haven't seen the Derby hat she made me, have you?"

I shook my head as he opened a cabinet, revealing it.

"Holy hell, nice."

"Whatever she designs, I bet-know it'll knock this out of the park."

"I guess you don't wear that often."

"Just one other time at a fashion show. I'd prefer to keep it in this condition."

"I get ya."

Adrien's POV

Cuz left for his shower while I got what materials Marinette might need, scissors, sketchbooks and writing utensils galore.

"Marinette, you got this."

"See ya! Don't wait up for me!" (Reader) called out

Damn, that was quick.

I laughed.

"Already am!" I said

1 New Message - Alya

Alya: Heading over with Rose and Nathaniel!

Me: Just park inside, see you guys soon!

Alya: :)

I made my way to the entrance, playing a few pieces on our piano I've learned over the years while adding some improv where none is needed.  I laughed as I chopped up these songs with stuff that isn't written, having played these so many times.  A honk signaled my friends' arrival.

"Hey guys!" I said

"Hey dude." Nathaniel said

"You ready Adrien?" Rose asked with excitement

"Yep, let's make our mark." I said determined

"Marinette's already told me all the ideas she's brainstorming!" Alya said