Hello, lovely readers! I hope you enjoy the last chapter of "Please Tell Me I'm Awake Right Now". It has been a wild ride, and I thank all of you for following me on this journey.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for those who have continued to read and comment. It makes my heart feel so full whenever I see feedback. Thank you for continuing to fuel my need to write about these lovesick dorks!
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I'm still cross-posting this on AO3 and on Tumblr.

AO3: clslovegood47

Tumblr: gryffindorcls
(I will be posting my fics to the "Princess In Training" blog. Also, come talk to me over there! I would love to discuss my stories and the Miraculous fandom with ya'll!)
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I own nothing but the plot.

Marinette looked at her reflection in the mirror as Sabine fixed her hair into an elegant updo. A delicate ringlet fell to the right side of her face. Her mother finished by fastening a silver comb into the intricate bun on the back of her head.

"All done, sweetie!" Sabine said happily.

The excited teen held a hand mirror up to catch a glimpse of her hair in the looking glass. A smile immediately formed when she saw her reflection.

"It's beautiful, Maman!" she exclaimed, "Thank you!"

Marinette turned and examined herself in the large mirror. The dress she chose was floor-length and an A-line cut. It was made of light pink satin, and Swarovski Crystal studded band sat on her waist. Thick shoulder straps hung off the side of the gown's tasteful sweetheart neckline. While the dress was undeniably stunning, the hidden pockets were what influenced her final decision.

She paired her dress with a small, heart-shaped diamond necklace that belonged to her mother. Marinette proudly wore her new charm bracelet around her wrist, as well.

"You look so grown up!" Sabine remarked tearfully, "Adrien won't be able to get enough of you in this dress."

Marinette blushed. "Maman!"

"Oh, sweetheart! I remember what it was like to be young and in love. Besides, it's very apparent that Adrien cares for you deeply. There's nothing wrong with knocking his socks off every once in a while," her mother added wistfully.

"Are you sure everything looks okay? I've never worn anything this fancy before," Marinette asked as she did a small twirl in front of her reflection.

"You look perfect!" her father said, entering the room.

Sabine and Marinette turned to look at Tom who stood ready with a camera in hand.

"That's exactly what I was about to say!" her mom replied as she moved next to her husband.

"It's too bad that Adrien won't be here to pick you up. I would have loved to have gotten some pictures of the two of you," Tom noted.

Marinette sighed. "Well, Adrien was required to be there early with his father for some press thing, but don't worry, Papa. There will be plenty of photographers at the event, and I will make sure to take a few pictures on my phone."

"Good, but I still want to take a picture of you before you leave. Go stand next to your mother," he commanded with a grin.

She gladly obliged and posed next to Sabine. The mother and daughter put their arms around each other and smiled brightly for the camera.

Tom gave them a loving look. "My two beautiful ladies. I am so lucky to have you in my life. I love you both so much."

Marinette ran over to her father and gave him a squeeze. "I love you, too, Papa! We're also pretty lucky to have you."

Tom planted a kiss on the top of his daughter's head causing her to squeak and duck. Sabine shooed her husband away.

"Tom, careful! You'll mess up her hair," her mom scolded.

"Alright! Alright! I will watch out for the masterpiece," he laughed.

A knock sounded from the front door of the apartment. All three turned their heads towards the noise.

"That must be Adrien's driver here to pick me up," Marinette commented, grabbing a small silver clutch off of her desk.

She opened the bag to make sure that Tikki was safely inside with a few small cookies. Marinette looked in the mirror one last time and took a deep breath.

Sabine gave her a quick embrace. "Have a wonderful time, sweetie!"

Tom walked her to the door and greeted the Gorilla. The two men shook hands and exchanged pleasantries. (The responses from Adrien's driver came in the form of incoherent grunts.)

After hugging her father goodbye, Marinette followed the Gorilla to the car. He held the door open for her, and she slid in. Once inside, she could feel the tickle of butterflies nervously flapping around in the pit of her stomach.

She fixed her eyes on the passing cityscape as the car rolled away from the bakery. It was a short drive, but it felt like time had slowed to a crawl. During the trip, she felt a confusing swirl of anticipation and anxiety. This caused her to unknowingly fiddle with the clasp on her clutch.

After a few minutes, the bag popped open, and Tikki rested a reassuring paw on Marinette's hand. She smiled at her Kwami and steadied her breathing.

"Tonight is going to be amazing, Marinette," she thought to herself, "Adrien will be with you the entire time. There's no need to be nervous."

After his piano practice that afternoon, Adrien was handed a garment bag containing a fitted navy blue suit, a white collared shirt, and a light pink tie. He was also given a set of polished silver cufflinks. He assumed that his ensemble probably matched the gown Marinette had picked out. Adrien smiled knowing that she had gotten a dress in her favorite color, and he knew that she would look beautiful in whatever she was going to wear that evening.

It wasn't long before a team of stylists came in to fix his hair and get him ready to talk to the press. Once he was ready, Adrien was ushered into the family's limousine where his father was already waiting for him.

The Investor's Gala was to take place at Le Grand Paris. Cameras were already flashing when they arrived at their destination. Adrien made sure that he was charming and courteous as he answered all of the reporter's questions. He smiled brightly when one asked about his Instagram photo with Marinette. Adrien proudly talked about his new girlfriend and made sure to emphasize how wonderful and talented she is.

Shortly after, Adrien found himself standing next to his father in the hotel's ballroom. Gabriel greeted countless guests and as they filed in through the entranceway. Adrien spoke politely with each investor, partner, and designer who came to the gala. It was all mind-numbingly exhausting. Adrien was ready to break away from his duties as heir to the Agreste fortune and enjoy the party. He couldn't wait for Marinette to arrive.

He glanced at the ornate clock on the wall. It was fifteen minutes after seven, and he knew that his driver had gone to pick her up at seven o'clock. Adrien felt a shiver of excitement course through his body-she would be here soon.

His eyes remained glued on the door as he eagerly awaited her arrival. He became so wrapped up in his own thoughts that he did not notice Chloe Bourgeois sneaking up behind him.

"Adrikins!" her shrill greeting pierced the din of the room, causing Adrien to flinch.

Nonetheless, he smiled. "Hello, Chloe. How are you doing this evening?"

"I'm doing soooooo much better now that I'm with you, Adrien!" she latched onto his arm tightly.

He wiggled his way out of her grip and laughed nervously. "It's nice to see you, too."

She attempted to grab his arm again, but he quickly moved out of her reach. "We have to dance together tonight. Come on, it'll be so much fun."

"Actually, Chole, I'm going to be with someone else tonight. I invited her, and she will be here any moment."

"That's okay. We can still go and dance together. She's not here yet, so it doesn't matter."

"No, I am going to wait for her right here, and then I plan on spending the entire evening with her."

"Ugh. That's no fun! Did your dad set you up with someone or something?"

"I just told you that I invited her."

Chloe crossed her arms. "And who could possibly be more important than I am?"

Adrien met Chloe's gaze. "Marinette is my date tonight, and I do not intend to leave her side."

"What? Date? Is this because you met up with her yesterday and posted some pictures on your Instagram? I saw them, but you can tell she's manipulating you. I hope you know she's only using you to get ahead in the fashion world. My poor, little Adrien...I can help you. You don't need Dupain-Cheng."

"Excuse me?"

"Puh-lease," she waved her hand dismissively, "This thing with her won't last. You'll see that she's not that big of a deal. Come on, Adrien. Let's go dance."

He gave her a stern look that caused the heiress to take a step back. "Marinette is my girlfriend, and I do not appreciate you talking about her that way. If you would like to remain friends then I expect you to be polite and to choose your words wisely in the future."

"Is everything okay, Adrien," a concerned yet welcome voice said behind him.

He turned around and was met by a radiant Marinette. Adrien's throat went dry as he took in the sight before him. He tried to swallow, and his legs felt like they had turned to jelly. He knew that his girlfriend was gorgeous, but he had not been fully prepared to see her in an evening gown.

"Hello, kitty," she said, moving closer to him, "you look incredibly handsome tonight."

He took her hand and brought it to his lips. Adrien then placed a gentle peck on her knuckles.

"My lady," he responded reverently, "you are more stunning than a sky painted with stars."

She giggled and blushed.

"Ugh," Chloe interrupted.

Adrien quickly shot her an angry glare that made the heiress produce a light gasp. She rolled her eyes and let out a frustrated breath.

"Hi, Marinette," she said through clenched teeth, "You look pretty tonight. Have fun at the party."

Without waiting for a response, Chloe quickly turned on her heel and disappeared into the crowd.

Adrien turned back to Marinette. "She's wrong you know."

She gave him a confused look. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"You don't just look pretty tonight. My love, you look amazing. Everything is just...wow."

Her blush deepened. "Thank you, minou."

She stood on the tips of her toes and kissed his forehead before turning around and walking over to Adrien's father.

"Good evening, Monsieur Agreste," she said confidently.

The older man looked at her and nodded. "Good evening to you, as well, Marinette. I am impressed with your dress choice. It looks very becoming on you."

"Thank you, sir. Your design is beautiful."

"Perhaps next year you will be able to wear a design of your own."

Marinette couldn't contain her smile. "It would be an honor to do so, Monsieur Agreste."

Gabriel promptly turned towards his son. "Adrien, I think it is time for you to escort your date into the party. I'm sure she would find it beneficial to talk to some of the designers who are here tonight."

"Yes, sir," Adrien excitedly walked over to Marinette and extended his arm for her to take. "My lady, please follow me."

Marinette giggled and linked her arm with his. She held onto him tightly as they navigated their way through the crowd.

"The dresses here are incredible! I've never seen so many people make so many bold fashion choices before," she noted with awe.

The chandeliers above reflected scattered light in her eyes as she scanned the room. It was like looking into a starfield. Her enthusiasm made her bounce happily and smile brightly. All Adrien could do was stare at the amazing girl clinging to his arm. He was still overcome by her beauty.

"I'm glad you're having fun," he remarked.

She let go of his arm and twirled in place. "How could I not? I'm still not convinced that this all isn't just some dream. Here I am at a huge fashion event in Paris with the boy I fell hopelessly in love with over a year ago. Then, to top it all off, I get to wear this amazing dress that makes me feel like royalty."

He leaned in and rested his forehead on hers. "You're already a princess, my love. You didn't need a fancy dress to make you royalty in my eyes."

Marinette bit her lip and looked up. "And pray tell, good sir, where exactly is my kingdom?"

"You are the ruler of my heart," he whispered in her ear.

Her eyelids fluttered shut and he could hear breath hitch. "This princess' life is incomplete without her prince charming. Then again, sometimes she prefers the company of a valiant knight in shining leather."

"What if she was able to have both?"

"Both would be very nice."

Their lips met for a chaste peck. Both teens pulled away and smiled at each other.

"My, my, my! If it isn't my two favorite lovebirds!" a cheerful voice said.

Both teens turned their heads towards the newcomer.

Marinette's eyes lit up when she saw who had spoken. "Noelle!"

"Hey there, kiddo. You look great in that dress. I knew you would...and by the way you two were cozying up with each other, I'm guessing he liked it, too."

"She looks amazing," Adrien's eyes gleamed with adoration, "Then again, she looks beautiful in anything she puts on."

Noelle gave Marinette a look of approval.

"He's definitely a keeper!" The young woman gave the teen a thumbs up before continuing. "Well, I'm off to go mingle and do my job for a change. I just wanted to say hi. You two enjoy your night!"

They both waved goodbye to Noelle before turning back towards each other.

"Noelle is so nice," Marinette admitted with a smile, "I can't believe that I get to spend the entire summer with her."

"Just her?" Adrien teased.

"Of course, I'll hang out with you, too, kitty."

"This is the first time I'm actually looking forward to summer."

Marinette took his hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.

"Hey, Adrien?" she asked with a grin.

He turned to look at her. "What is it, my love?"

Marinette fiddled with the skirt. "I just realized...here we are at this amazing party, and I'm wearing this beautiful dress. You look pretty dapper yourself, and the band is playing music. I was wondering if you wanted to dance."

Adrien raised his eyebrows. "My lady, I would be honored to share a dance with you."

He bowed and offered her his hand. She giggled and allowed him to lead her onto the dance floor. Once there, he moved her hand to his shoulder and placed a hand on her waist. They turned slowly while gazing into each other's eyes.

"Do you remember the first time we danced together?" Marinette smiled.

Adrien thought for a moment before his eyes lit up with recognition. "Ah yes...that was at Chloe's party a few months ago right? The one where she was trying to prove to me that she could be nice?"

"Mmmmhmm. That's the one."

"As I recall, that was also the time that Despair Bear started possessing all of our friends."

"True, but before that," Marinette moved both her arms so they draped around his shoulders, "we got to dance a little bit more like this."

He gave her a one-sided smirk, put his other hand around her waist, and pulled her close. "How's this?"

She leaned in and whispered in his ear, "Much better."

Marinette rested her head on his chest, and they swayed to the music. Adrien's heart beat faster with each passing second. They were in their own personal bubble, and he never wanted to leave.

"This is the best night of my life," Marinette whispered into his ear.

Adrien's smile widened. "It only gets better from here, Princess. We have a bright future ahead of us, and today is only the beginning."

EPILOGUE

Ladybug sat on the roof of a building near her home. She breathed in the warm summer air and sighed. It was peaceful and still. There was no danger tonight. She relaxed against a chimney as she waited for her partner.

Within minutes a soft thump alerted her to the arrival of a second person. She smiled and turned her head.

"Good evening, minou," she hummed happily.

"Fancy seeing you here, my lady," Chat Noir responded cheerfully, "What brings you out so late on this lovely Purr-isian night?"

"I would have been out sooner, but I had to go to this stuffy party where I danced for hours and was swept off my feet."

"Sounds paw-sitively dreadful, Bugaboo," he teased, sitting down next to her.

She scooted closer to him and rested her head on his shoulder. "It was the worst."

"Did you at least have someone to keep you company?"

"I had to spend the whole night with some rich, blond-haired model."

"Ugh...they're the worst. Was your boy okay at least?"

Ladybug leaned in and kissed Chat on the cheek. "I suppose he was alright...even though he didn't wear his glasses at all in front of me...and trust me, I really wanted to see him in those. Then again, he did tell me I was stunning, so I guess that was a plus."

He placed his finger on her chin and turned her face towards his own. "Well, he's not wrong."

Chat erased the remaining space between them and placed his lips on top of hers. Their arms wrapped around each other as they deepened the kiss. After several blissful minutes, the pair broke apart but remained in each other's embrace.

"I'm so happy it was you," Ladybug whispered.

Chat beamed. "I couldn't have asked for anyone better, my lady. You are my one and only. I love you."

Marinette placed another kiss on his forehead. She then moved away and allowed their eyes to meet.

"I love you, too, Chaton," she replied, "and I can't wait to see what's next for us."