Marinette rushed into class, already minutes late. She spewed apologies to the teacher, all of which fell on deaf ears as she was shooed to her seat.

A twinge of disappointment squeezed her heart as she saw Adrien's seat empty.

As if reading her mind, Alya said, "Nino told me he's doing a morning shoot. He'll probably be back around lunch."

Marinette nodded and turned to the front of the class, already impatient for lunchtime to come.

Maybe, Marinette thought, I'll still have a chance to ask Adrien to the dance. She drafted an entire plan about how she'd bring up the topic after school as they decorated, how he'd inevitably agree, and how they'd go to the dance, get married, and have three children.

All Marinette would have to do is not mess up.

Again.

Marinette sat with Alya at one of the library's tables, idly doodling on her worksheet. "So, what was the solution to my problem you mentioned yesterday?"

Alya looked up from her textbook, a finger bookmarking her spot. "Oh, that. I guess you won't know until later." She winked. "And don't bother asking what it is. No spoiler."

Marinette pouted, drumming her pencil on the table.

Chloe and Sabrina walked down the main aisle, the blonde speaking intentionally loud, so that everyone nearby could hear her boasting. "I wonder what color dress I should wear. I look amazing in everything; it makes it so much harder to decide."

Sabrina nodded along, carrying a small stack of books in her arm. "I think Adrien will like whatever you decide."

Marinette's head popped up at the mention of her crush. "What do you mean?"

Chloe turned and sniffed. "Don't you know? I guess you wouldn't, since you live under a rock. I'm going with Adrien to the dance next week."

Marinette sputtered. "Since when?"

"Since forever, duh. Who else could he possibly go with?"

Alya glared. "Pretty much everyone except you. Did he actually ask you? Did you even ask him?"

Chloe flipped her ponytail over her shoulder. "It's obvious we'll be going together," she said. "Someone like him would never ask anyone lesser than moi. I hope you weren't getting any hopes up, Marinette. Going with a peasant like you would only tarnish his impeccable reputation. Adrien has better people to associate himself with. Come, Sabrina. Let's leave these two dorks. I need help deciding how to wear my hair."

Marinette glared at the blonde's retreating figure, imagining laser beams burning holes into the yellow jacket. She wanted to brush aside all of Chloe's jaunts, but the words had left their imprint. Slowly, Marinette's fantasies of dancing with Adrien crumbled away, leaving a hollow inside.

"Don't listen to her, Mari," Alya said, rubbing her friend's back. "She doesn't know what she's talking about."

Marinette tried to swallow the frog in her throat. "Am I really that lowly?"

"No, of course not! Chloe's just jealous of you or something. Everyone knows how petty she can be."

Marinette shrugged and tried to busy herself with her work.

Marinette sat with the event committee at the head of the table. She marked off a checklist of things to do for the Winter Dance.

"Hanging decorations and flyers, check," she called out loud for the others to hear. Alya, sitting to her right, peering over her shoulder at the list. Marinette glanced farther along the table, where Adrien sat, listening intently. Willing her voice to remain strong, she continued, "Pre-order food and drinks, check. Buy plates, napkins, et cetera, check…."

The team of students were almost done with preparations. Tickets had been on sale since Monday, and hopefully enough would be sold to meet their quota.

"...and that's a wrap. We did good today, guys," Marinette concluded. "I'll see you all again tomorrow!"

The group disbanded, the day's after-school planning session over.

Marinette and Alya walked out the conference room together. Adrien was waiting outside the door, catching both girls' attention.

"Hey, Marinette, can I ask you something?" The blonde pushed himself off the wall, resting a hand on the strap of his bag.

Alya smirked, already heading down the hall. "I'll catch you later, girl, okay?" Marinette nodded, mouth gone cotton-dry.

"Hey, Adrien," she said. "Is there anything I can help you with?"

Adrien rubbed the back of his neck. "I was wondering if you were going to the dance."

"Yeah, of course; I'm the class president. It's something I should do."

"Oh, right. Well, are you going with anyone?"

A flush rose to Marinette's cheeks. "I-I was thinking about it, yes. I was actually g-going to ask..."

Chloe's words that morning ran through her mind. I hope you weren't getting any hopes up, Marinette. Going with a peasant like you would only tarnish his impeccable reputation. Adrien has better people to associate himself with.

Marinette was crippled with doubt. Asking Adrien to be her date for the night was sounding less appealing by the second. Marinette shook her head. "I was going to ask someone to come with me."

She wasn't sure if her eyes were playing tricks on her or not, but Marinette could have sworn she saw a flash of disappointment on Adrien's face. Whatever it was, he quickly schooled his features into nonchalance. "Oh. Okay. Good luck for you, then. I hope they say yes."

Marinette didn't know if she was actually going to ask anybody. There simply wasn't anybody else who would bother humouring her with their time.

As she walked home dejectedly, a familiar idea she had been toying with resprung from where it had been left in the back of her mind.

ladybugger

So.

I've been thinking about it for a while now.

For only a few days, actually, but that's besides the point.

We've been talking for like *three* years now, and we both live in Paris, so...

Why don't we meet up?

kittycatblack

wait

are you for real?

you really want to meet up?

ladybugger

Please don't make me change my mind.

kittycatblack

no no that's great!

im glad you want to meet up

but

what changed your mind?

ladybugger

I thought about how I was always afraid to do things that would change my little world.

And I realized: my little world is a LITTLE world.

I can't even muster up the courage to talk to my crush.

And I've been taking my friendship with you for granted.

I've been so worried about things changing because I've never had a lot of change happen before.

Then, it came to me that

These changes aren't really so big.

It's my perspective on my little, little world that magnified them.

So I thought

Why not? Why not make my online best friend one of my real-life best friends?

Chat?

kittycatblack

look at me

youre gonna make me cry

that was deep.

beautiful and deep, my lady

ladybugger

Oh my god.

That's it, forget seeing my face.

kittycatblack

no holy cow im joking

ladybug please omg

ladybugger

If you're as terrible in person as you are online, I'm probably going to regret my decision, aren't I?

kittycatblack

i purr-omise you won't regret it

ladybugger

*screaming*

kittycatblack

;3

but anyways

when and where would you like to meet?

ladybugger

How about at the front of Collège Françoise Dupont?

Is today in an hour good for you?

I'm sorry it's so soon; I didn't want to give myself time to back out of it.

kittycatblack

no worries, its ok

ill see you then, my lady

ladybugger

And you me, kitty.

Marinette waited at the top of the stairs, a pink scarf wrapped snug around her neck. Phone held in one hand, she scanned the vicinity for Chat, though she had no idea how he looked.

Marinette glanced at the time on her phone. 11:51. She worried her lip between her teeth and brushed her bangs from her eyes.

Though she didn't want to admit it, Marinette was nervous about seeing Chat Noir. Her previous doubts about not living up to his expectations still wormed through her gut. How could ordinary, unimpressive Marinette Dupain-Cheng ever compare to the internet-sensational Ladybug? Her bold words and fierceness didn't exist in real life.

Marinette's gaze swept along the sidewalk, landing on a mop of blonde hair bobbing her way.

Chat? she hoped, sucking in a lungful of air.

Instead, to her surprise, the boy walking towards the school was no other than Adrien Agreste. He had his phone clutched in his right hand and, of all things, a single rose in the other. A hint of a bashful smile adorned his face as he looked around, coming to a stop at the edge of the sidewalk bordering the collège.

Marinette felt her face flare up with heat. She ducked behind the wall, obscuring herself from Adrien's sight. Marinette rapidly tapped out a message to Chat.

ladybugger

SHIT CAN WE CHANGE THE MEETING SPOT BECAUSE MY CRUSH IS LITERALLY RIGHT THERE.

She held her breath and peeked around the wall. Marinette watched as Adrien occupied himself with his phone. Releasing the air slowly, she crept down the steps, crouching behind the stone banister.

At its foot, she quickly checked her phone for a reply.

kittycatblack

ok how about the park on the other side of the street

ladybugger

Sure.

Marinette glanced at Adrien, who had turned his back on her and was heading right, towards the park. She shook her fist in the air, frustration welling inside of her.

ladybugger

WAIT NO HE'S WALKING OVER THERE NOW!

kittycatblack

seriously?

ok, then, why don't you see where he's NOT walking and pick there

Marinette offered a location on the opposite side of the building, and to her dismay, Adrien turned and began walking towards her, brows furrowed in mild annoyance.

She scrambled backwards up a few steps, tucking herself closer against the stairs' wall.

ladybugger

Okay, nope, nevermind. He's going that way now.

kittycatblack

oh my god

Marinette and Chat drafted new meeting spots, but all of them were tossed because, for some reason, Adrien Agreste could not make up his mind about where he wanted to go.

kittycatblack

okay what is up with this dude

is he following you or something?

ladybugger

No, he doesn't even know I'm here.

I think.

I'm sure he hasn't noticed creepy-stalker me watching him yet.

Marinette sighed, leaning back against the steps. She'd just have to head home and ask Chat to meet her at the bakery.

Marinette popped up from her hiding spot after checking that Adrien was facing the other way, out towards the street. She minced behind him on the edge of her toes, wishing he wouldn't turn around and see her there. Once she was far enough away, she crossed the street to reach the entry of the bakery, leaning against a lamppost.

ladybugger

Okay, okay, so I left the area.

Well, across the road, but still.

kittycatblack

ok

you stay purrt and tell me where you are

ladybugger

In front of the Tom & Sabine Boulangerie Patisserie.

I'm next to the street lamp.

Hurry before he sees me!

Marinette pressed her lips together and stared at the boy opposite her. Maybe he won't turn around and see me. And, if he does, well, I live here, so I could just be hanging around and—

Adrien's head snapped up as he turned around, looking straight up at her.

Marinette squeaked, nearly jumping out of her shoes. She tugged her scarf up over her mouth and turned her face away, hoping he wouldn't recognize her.

ladybugger

HE'S STARING AT ME KILL ME NOW.

She peered back at Adrien, who was gaping at her, mouth hanging wide open. Marinette could barely tear her eyes away to look at her phone.

kittycatblack

ME?

The phone slipped from her fingers, cracking against the pavement.

She heard heavy footsteps running towards her way. All she could do was swallow hard and try to breathe.

No. No way.

"Marinette!" Adrien shouted, slowing to a stop in front of the girl. He stooped down, picking up her cell phone. "Oh, gosh, I'm sorry; the screen is cracked. I'll pay for repairs, I promise."

Marinette covered her mouth with her hands, slowly pulling her gaze up to meet Adrien's. A series of emotions flashed across both faces: shock; denial; realization; … and hope.

Marinette let out a shaky breath. "Ch-Chat?"

Adrien held out her phone and the rose. "Yeah… Ladybug?"

She nodded, accepting both from him and shoving the cell phone in her purse. "I-I can't believe it. The famous Adrien Agreste is shitposting, memeing-legend Chat Noir?"

"Surprise?"

Marinette brought a hand to her forehead. "I don't even know what to say. Wow. I think I'm going to faint."

"Don't worry, my lady, I'll catch you." Adrien grinned, placing a steadying hand on her shoulder.

Marinette squeezed her eyes shut, unable to look him in the eye. "Oh, god, all of those things we've talked about online…"

Adrien's face reddened. "So, that guy you like… it's me, huh? I'm 'Prince Charming.'"

Covering her burning cheeks with her palms, she answered, "Y-yes." Marinette's shoulder's slumped as she recalled Chat's— now Adrien's—Madame Mystery. "I know that you don't feel the same way. I hope this doesn't make things weird between us."

"Actually, Marinette, you—"

Marinette squared her shoulders, fighting down the crushing sadness threatening to spill over. "Oh, no, I'm still going to help you win your crush over like I promised."

"Marinette." Adrien motioned to the rose still in Marinette's hand. "You're my crush. Ladybug was who I was asking you about. I wanted your advice on how to win you over."

And then Marinette did pass out. Adrien lunged forward, catching her shoulders and lowering her into a seating position against the lamppost.

Marinette's eyes fluttered open. "Oh," she sighed. "This day is turning out so weird."

Adrien chuckled nervously. "You've got that right."

Marinette got up, retrieving the flower from the ground. "So, um, there was actually another reason why I wanted to meet today." She brushed her fingertips over the crimson petals shyly. "I was going to ask Chat to come to the Winter Dance with me, but seeing as Adrien is already taking Chloe…"

Adrien shook his head, placing his hand on Marinette's. "Chloe? I'm not taking Chloe. She just assumed so. In fact, I was going to ask you to go with me. Alya had told me you'd say yes… and then you didn't."

"Oh," Marinette gasped. "Really?" A brilliant smile blossomed, making Adrien's heart skip a beat.

Gosh, she's cute. Why hadn't I noticed sooner?"

"Really," Adrien confirmed. "So, what do you say? Want to be my date to the dance?"

Marinette nearly swooned. "This feels like a dream… but yes."

Adrien leaned forward, putting his lips so close to Marinette's ear that she could feel the warmth of his breath tickle her lobes. Marinette shivered, half in denial that Adrien Agreste was standing so close—

"My lady, I just have to ask…" He jumped back, fingers pointing at her shoes. "WHAT ARE THOOOSE?"

Marinette smacked Adrien with the rose. "Chat Noir, I swear—!"

"You called me Chat," he pointed out. "Does that mean I get to call you Ladybug?"

"Er… No."

"Alright, then." Adrien bowed low, sweeping a hand out behind him. "Shall I call you my Princess?"

Marinette emitted a small squeak. "W-why would you call me Princess?"

Adrien rose from his bow, brows scrunched in uncertainty. "Well, I thought, since... you know… we both like each other and whatnot…?"

Marinette blushed, bubbling with giddiness. "Oh. Oh! I guess so!"

What a whirlwind of events, Marinette mused. I had only expected to meet Chat today, and now all of this! Not that I'm complaining, however.

"You can keep calling me kitty, if you want. Or Adrien Hot-Damn Agreste. Either is fine." Marinette rolled her eyes as Adrien smiled and continued, "All those clues… We were so blind. I can't believe we never recognized the other."

Marinette shrugged, a bit embarrassed. The shirt she sent him had screamed Chat and she had been so far in denial to notice. "In my defense, the last person I'd have thought to be Chat would not have been you. This is the secret personality you've been hiding, huh?"

"Pretty much." Adrien hummed thoughtfully. "And to think: all this time, I've already known Ladybug."

"I hope you're not disappointed," Marinette said, her rollercoaster of emotions taking another swoop down, "that Ladybug's only me."

"Why would you think that?" Adrien was truly baffled by the thought.

Marinette shrugged lamely. "You're not the only one with a personality change. I mean, online I'm popular and outspoken, but in real life I'm just… me."

Adrien shook his head. "What's wrong with that? You're you. I love you!"

Marinette and Adrien froze, looking at the other in mild panic.

The boy waved his hands frantically, turning a bright red. "I-I mean I love you you— which means the same thing, I guess— but I mean—!"

Before Marinette could think of a better way to silence the blonde's tirade, she clasped her hands on Adrien's cheeks, pulling him down for a kiss… and knocking their foreheads together.

The two jumped apart, rubbing their heads. Marinette could still feel the pressure of Adrien's lips on hers, however brief it was.

"That works a lot better in the movies," she admitted, hoping she hadn't scared him away for eternity.

Adrien moved his fingers to his lips. "Y-yeah."

Marinette bit her cheek. "Can we… can we try that again?"

"Y-yeah," he repeated, before cautiously cupping the girl's cheek and brushing a quick kiss to her lips.

Marinette was warmed to the core, tingles dancing across her skin. I. Kissed. Adrien. Agreste! And Chat Noir. Woah.

Adrien pulled back a few inches. "So, Princess, shall we coordinate our outfits for the dance? I'm thinking matching ugly shirts. What about you?"

Marinette giggled. "Why don't you come into my house and we can talk about designs there, eh, kitty?"

"Anything for you, my lady."

Marinette tried very hard not to brag to Chloe about her brand new, still-secret relationship with Adrien. At least, out loud. Ha-ha, Chloe! In your face! Who's taking him to the dance, now?

But that meant she would also be taking the ridiculously dorky Chat Noir to the dance, which helped hold her tongue. Not that anybody knew that little detail.

Instead, she stood in the courtyard, trying very, very hard not to brag to Alya about her brand new, still-secret relationship with Adrien.

"...and then she had the audacity to say to me—" Alya paused her rant as Nino and Adrien walked towards the pair of teens.

"Hey, girls," Nino greeted. "How you doin'?"

Adrien whispered under his breath, low enough that only Marinette could hear, "Nyan. Rawr."

Marinette's muscles strained with the effort to keep a straight face. "H-hi, guys. We're doing fine, thanks."

She could feel waves of silent laughter rolling off of the horrid troll besides her. Marinette placed a hand on her hip and looked Adrien in the eye. With a gleam of mischief, she said, "So. Adrien. About those... dank memes."

Nino and Alya looked at the two curiously. Adrien blinked. "I'm sorry. I don't know what you mean," he lied.

"Oh, I'm sure you do." Marinette felt like Ladybug, passing casual jests with Chat. She leaned in close, mirroring his actions from yesterday. "I'll be expecting a skype call later from someone by the name of 'Memelord Agreste, Shitpost Extraordinaire', so do try not to disappoint. This suit isn't going to design itself."

Marinette moved away, pleased at the small blush tinting Adrien's cheeks.

He nodded. "O-okay."

"Anyways," Marinette said, flashing an apologetic smile towards Nino. "We better get to class. See you later!"

She walked off, pulling Alya with her. Once the two were out of earshot, Alya asked, "What was that? I hope you haven't weirded Adrien off. He was supposed to ask you to the dance yesterday."

Marinette smiled. "Oh, I don't think that'll be a problem anymore."