#mlsecretsanta2019

[polarsculp]

Merry Christmas @miakwat I am your secret santa!

[thewritewolf]

Kitten Love

Hello! This fic was written for @anotherblog1234, who you’ll find more on instagram or deviantart than on tumblr! Psyclopathe, I hope you enjoy this fluffy one shot! :D

@mlsecretsanta

Marinette isn't complaining when Adrien suddenly asked her out, although she *is* very worried about their first date... Meanwhile, Adrien - who hadn't thought this through - is struggling to come up with a good first date idea.

Enjoy!

Read on

Ao3

.

Adrien paced back and forth in front of the windows in his rooms. His face was a mask of determination and his hands were folded behind his back as he put all his focus into the task at hand. He suddenly stopped and stood straight, turning on his heels to face Plagg as he put his fist in his hand. Naturally, the cat kwami was simply watching him, bored out of his mind.

“Okay, I’ve got it - Imagine this,” Adrien began, “A candlelit dinner at the most prestigious restaurant in all of Paris. I hire a violinist to accompany us. The perfect, classic romantic date.” Adrien put his hands on his hips and grinned.

To his annoyance, Plagg just yawned and scratched behind his ears. After a few moments he looked back at Adrien. “Oh? Was that all? I assumed there was something more than that.”

Crossing his arms, Adrien pouted and asked, “What’s wrong with a classic candlelit dinner?”

“‘Classic’, huh? Unoriginal, overdone, cliche.” Plagg shrugged. “I mean, I don’t care either way, but if you’re gonna bother me about this, at least make it something new.”

“Yeah, okay, fine.” Adrien rolled his eyes and got back to pacing, ignoring the gross eating noises Plagg was making. If two years wasn’t enough to help him tune it out, nothing would be. His eyes widened and he snapped his fingers. “What about a theater production? Or maybe an opera!” A grin spread across his face. “She’s gone to plays before, so I’m sure she’d love this one!”

Frustratingly, Plagg remained unmoved. In a deadpan voice, he said, “Right, staying quiet for hours at a time in the dark, surrounded by strangers. Ideal stuff for talking and getting to know each other.”

“We know plenty about each other!”

“Kid, look me in the eye and tell me you don’t want to spend the whole date learning about her.”

Adrien struggled to meet his kwami’s face and folded immediately, his shoulders hunching forward in a sad slouch.

“Besides,” Plagg continued, ignoring his chosen’s distress, “I know you and you’d probably take her somewhere way too high class.”

“It is what she deserves,” Adrien said, glaring at Plagg.

“But isn’t not what she’s used to. For someone like Marinette, it would all be too overwhelming. Think something simpler, more down to earth.” Plagg pulled out his second cheese wheel. Adrien was running out of time with Plagg being even moderately invested in helping plan this date.

“Down to earth… What about a trip to our cabin at the Alps? That’s pretty earthy, right? And it’d be just the two of us for a weekend. Well,” Adrien conceded, “and maybe the Gorilla stopping by to check up on us.”

Plagg stared at him. “This is a first date, young man. Not a honeymoon. You’ll give her a heart attack if you do something like that.”

“Plagg!” Adrien whined. “What should I do! You’ve shot down all of my ideas.”

“Jeez, kid, just go somewhere that you’re both together and having fun.” The kwami gulped down the last of his cheese and zoomed into the air. “Now leave me out of this!”

The last thing Adrien saw of Plagg as he vanished under the bedsheets was his ears and long tail. He put a hand to his chin.

“Together… having fun…”

Adrien’s face brightened. This idea was bound to be a winner!

--------------

“Marinette, you look fine. You can stop that now.”

She paused in the middle of another brush stroke and shot her kwami a desperate look. “I can’t just look ‘fine’, Tikki! I have to look perfect!”

“Somehow, I don’t think Adrien will be able to tell the difference between your tenth and your fiftieth time brushing your hair.” Tikki glanced toward the pile of clothes on her bed. “Or, for that matter, your second or tenth outfit.”

“But I need to-”

Tikki zoomed in front of her face. “Relax, Marinette. He already cares about you. The fact that he asked you out is already proof of that. And besides,” she added, landing on her shoulder, “didn’t he say to dress casually? Surely you won’t need to worry too much about your hair if that’s the case.”

“I… guess,” Marinette said, biting her lower lip. She stood up and started pacing her room. “But this could be my one and only chance to make sure he falls for me. I have to really nail it. Otherwise, I might lose him for good.”

“Marinette… I know for sure that he thinks the world of you. There isn’t anything you can do to scare him off now.”

“You can’t know that! I don’t even know what I’m going to say when he gets here!”

Tikki seemed like she was about to respond when her antennae twitched and she glanced toward the trapdoor. She smiled and said, “You’d better figure it out fast,” before phasing into Marinette’s purse.

There wasn’t any time to puzzle out what she meant before there was a knock on her door.

“Hello?” Came a very familiar voice. “Your parents said you were up here. Can I come in?”

A surge of panic filled her as she glanced around her room at the many Adrien posters and she dove for the door, blocking it with her body. Her drastic measures weren’t necessary as Adrien didn’t even try to open it.

“Are you okay? I thought I heard something fall.”

“Y-yes! I’m fine! Just, um, just finishing getting ready. I- I’ll meet you in the living room?”

There was a pause from just below her. “Okay. Take your time!”

She listened to him trudge downstairs before letting out a sigh of relief. Tikki emerged from her purse and crossed her arms, narrowing her eyes at her chosen.

“What? I can’t have him see all this!” She gestured to the pictures of Adrien modeling and the pile of discarded clothes. “Now I just… sit here for a minute and go into the living room.”

“You know,” Tikki replied while looking at one of the larger posters, “you probably can take them down soon.” A smile warmed her tiny face as she turned her attention to Marinette. “Then you can start replacing them with pictures you take on your future dates.”

Her heart raced and her head felt light as she stood up. “Future… dates…?”

“Mhm. The ones I know you two will have.” Tikki returned to her purse, poking her head out as she added, “Now go get that boy!”

Marinette nodded resolutely and marched down the stairs. She could do this! All this time, she’d been getting better talking to Adrien. Getting to understand him as a friend. They knew each other, they had a great foundation to build a relationship off of. Adrien wasn’t anyone to be scared of.

That’s what she was telling herself as she turned the corner and entered the room. Adrien was seated on the couch facing away from her, but he must have heard her enter since his head whirled around to look at her. When she saw how his face lit up when his eyes landed on her, saw the bouquet of tulips (her favorites!) that he’d brought her, she realized she was right, even as her heart jumped to her throat.

Adrien wasn’t scary.

He was just very, very painfully cute.

...Marinette wasn’t sure if this was any better.

--------------------

The walk to their destination was meandering and filled with light conversation. Questions about her latest designs, his photoshoots, classwork, everything to pass the time. Once she got into the groove of it, past her own nerves, it was almost like talking with an old friend. Which, she realized with a start, he was. Two years of friendship and now it was turning into something more. She couldn’t be happier.

...At least, that was what she thought until they finally arrived. She glanced at Adrien in confusion.

“...An animal shelter?”

Adrien rubbed the back of his neck nervously. “I know it’s not the usual first date, but… they’re having a special meet and greet with kittens today,” he cleared this throat and added, “among other things.” He looked back at her bashfully. “...Is that okay?”

She clapped excitedly and hugged him. “I love it!” Her eyes flew open and she was gripped with panic for a moment. Was this too much too quickly? Was she invading his space? But those doubts melted away when he returned the hug.

“I’m glad,” he whispered. “Now come on! We’ve got baby kitties to pet!”

As he grabbed her hand and pulled her along, Marinette felt herself loosen up. Adrien spoke with the receptionist and was given directions to a room in the back. When they entered the room, they were immediately greeted by the sounds of over a dozen tiny kittens meowing at everything they could find. Including each other. The door opening attracted the attention of some of them, who immediately began trying to climb their way up the smooth waist-high wall blocking them from the only exit.

Marinette glanced over at Adrien, who almost looked on the verge of tears from happiness. She could understand the feeling as she stepped over the barrier and was immediately mobbed by kittens trying to climb their way up her dress. The kitten who had climbed the furthest found itself snatched up by Marinette and given kisses to the top of its head. It mewed in protest as she sat down.

After a few moments she noticed the one she was holding was the only one that was still near her. She looked up and immediately covered her mouth with her hand when she saw where they had all gone.

Just like her, Adrien had sat down and immediately began drowning in baby kitties. Almost all the kittens in the pen were drawn to him, clambering awkwardly over her date. A few were sitting in front of him, mewing as if to attract his attention. Others were making good use of his Agreste-brand jacket to get a good foothold as they climbed. Four sat all in a heap in his lap, purring contently as his hands briefly darted between them. One particularly intrepid kitten sat on top of his head and meowed in triumph… at least until Adrien picked him up and set him back on the ground.

Remembering what Tikki had said, she pulled out her phone and took a few pictures of the ridiculously adorable scene. Her giggling drew his attention and her breath caught when she saw just how happy he was. She was well acquainted with his model smile - it stared down at her everyday - but this was one that she had only seen drawn from him a few times before. She reflexively took another photo before setting down her phone.

His eyes trailed downward and his head tilted curiously when he saw what was in her lap.

There was amusement in his voice as he asked, “Is that the only black cat you like?”

She glanced down at the same time that the kitten looked up at her with big, green eyes. With her index finger she scratched it between the ears, coaxing a purr from the little guy.

“Well, at least this one doesn’t tell cat puns all the time.”

Adrien smirked. “Furreal? But cat puns are clawesome!”

“Sometimes, but there are other kinds of puns out there.”

“Hm…” Adrien tapped his chin. “So you’re saying Chat Noir should expand his act.” The black kitten meowed loudly, making Adrien laugh. “Not you, kitten noir.”

Marinette giggled despite herself. The time passed by quickly after that and eventually Adrien emerged from the pile of kittens, stretching his legs as he did so. They still tried to cling onto him and Marinette had to check him to make sure no determined stragglers were still hitching a ride.

“Are you sure we can’t play with the kittens some more?”

“We can come back later if you really want,” Adrien replied as they reached another door. “I just thought you’d want to see what’s in here.”

Curious, Marinette gently pushed open the door… only to see a glass maze filled with-

“Hamsters?” Suspicion bloomed in her gut.

“Yeah! I heard you wanted one when- um…”

“Adrien… When what?”

“When we… have a family together?”

A pit of dread opened up in her gut. In a small voice she said, “...What? How did you-”

Adrien was rubbing the back of his neck nervously. “So you know like two weeks ago when you left behind your sketchbook and Alya found it and gave it back to you?”

Her jaw dropped. “No…”

“I was the one who found it.” He wrung his hands in front of himself, unable to meet her eyes.

“Did you-”

“Read it? Yeah.” He looked as embarrassed as she felt and she buried her face in her hands. How was she ever going to look him in the eye again? “I didn’t mean to! But it was already open and I immediately got dragged off to a photoshoot and the designs were so good…” He looked at her apologetically. “I couldn’t help myself. I’m sorry.”

“But…” The word was said with such sly confidence that it made Marinette look up at him again. “For what it’s worth, I think Marinette Agreste doesn’t sound half as nice as Adrien Dupain-Cheng.”

[adrienaline-rushed-art]

Phew, this is way later than I intended but Happy Holidays to @cheshiremadd ! I’m your @mlsecretsanta Secret Santa! 

I wanted to do art and a fic and this time I was a bit experimental with the art, but I hope you like both! 

Summary: It was only natural that Adrien couldn’t go. Marinette thought Adrien would have known better than to spontaneously ask anyone to a dance, let alone make so many loud and excited plans that the whole class could hear. By the end of the month, everyone knew Adrien Agreste was going to the Boys’ Masquerade with Marinette Dupain-Cheng in a pink tux and mask—her favorite color—and that she was going to have the best night if it killed him. If she had known he hadn’t even asked permission yet, she wouldn’t have let herself get so excited. Now, it was the night before the masquerade and she was date-less.

Rating: G

Words: 2.5k

Chapters: 1/1 (COMPLETED) Here’s the link to the fic on AO3 since Tumblr formatting will absolutely screw everything over. 

And yes, this is inspired by Cinderella Three

[lukatastrophe]

When she’s worth the efforts.

Merry Christmas @sasami-mashiro !! I was your @mlsecretsanta​ this year ! I hope you will like it !

Thanks to my dear friend @chattheblackcat​ who was my beta reader and helped me fixing the flaws ! 

Marinette was rushing all around her room, she was already late. So very late. An akuma attack had delayed her preparation time. All she could do now was quickly put on a dress and grab her coat before leaving. Having her hair down helped to keep the cold off her neck a little. As she started running the bitter cold night air, began to turn her cheeks and nose red. The freezing air burning her lungs, but right now none of that mattered. After all Luka was waiting for her. He had invited her to go out on Christmas eve, and she didn’t hesitate for a second when asked. She wanted to give things a chance with him. She genuinely liked him after all. Luka soon came into sight. Wearing a beanie, a big scarf that couldn’t even hide his red cheeks and a fairly long dark blue coat. He was blowing in his hands, trying to warm them up. He also had a backpack on his shoulder.

Marinette called out to him and smiled. He lifted his head and she couldn't believe his face had now turned even redder than it was seconds before. The night was already dark and so many lights hung up everywhere around them. He smiled and had the softest look you could give to another person. But a frown quickly crossed his face. A smile followed by a little sigh when he looked at her. “What is it?” She asked, worried there was maybe something in her teeth, or something else.

He took off his scarf and put it around her neck. “You truly are a funny girl Marinette. It’s freezing cold outside and you didn't even cover yourself up properly.”

“I was running late.” He simply smiled at her. Oh that wonderful smile, that damn smile that she never understood. ‘How can someone hold so much tenderness in their face.’ Marinette thought. His expressions towards her never lacked any warmth. She always felt that she really mattered to him. But overcoming Adrien was one of the hardest challenges she ever had to face. And Luka knew it all so very well.

“Shall we go?” He asked softly, holding out his arm to her. Marinette nodded and wrapped her arm around his. She had no idea where they were going. But she would know soon enough. Luka had so many things on his mind. ‘Maybe get a bite to eat and go ice skating? Or maybe she would prefer eating after skating?’ Perhaps she would like to walk around the Christmas market?’ He needed to stop thinking, it was almost 7:30 and they had a reservation to get too. It’s almost incredible he could have a table on Christmas eve. But he worked his ass off to earn the money to invite her. So there would be no turning back now.

As they walked he watched her from the corner of his eye. Her pale long pink coat was giving her the sweetest look, and it really complimented her skin tone too. As well as showing her thin waist so well. Her legs covered by black wool tights along with heeled boots. ‘How did she even manage to run in those boots?’ He thought. He smiled at the cute way his scarf was around her neck, well somewhat around her neck that is. It was a bit too thick to stay only around her neck, and was hiding half her face actually. He couldn’t help but chuckle at how she looked so perfect either way.

Marinette looked at him confused by his chuckle. “What is it?” She asked, the sound of her voice muffled by the scarf.

Shaking his head slightly Luka brushed the question off. It was nothing, please don't mind me.”

And so after a few minutes of walking, and small talk. Marinette decided to ask Luka the reason he laughed earlier, but he stayed quiet and as if saved by the bell arrived at the restaurant he booked. She didn’t look up at the sign though, too annoyed with Luka’s silence on the reason why he laughed.

Once they enter the restaurant a waiter welcomed them and asked if he could take their coats. Luka helped Marinette with coat first, then turned around to give it to the waiter along with his beanie, backpack and coat. It was at this time Marinette was taking off the scarf. When he turned around and he could swear his heart stopped beating at the beautiful sight before him. She was holding out his scarf to him, her cheeks and nose were still red from the crisp night air. And the way her eyes were reflecting the restaurant’s lights. Had him feeling like the luckiest guy in the world. It was at this he finally got to see what she was wearing. His eyes carefully took in the sight before him as he looked down at her outfit.

She was wearing a strapless green dress, and a dark belt around her waist. ‘How on earth could she go out in this freezing weather dressed so lightly? ‘But oh my god was she ever stunning.’ He thought, smiling proudly at her beauty. The little silver snowflake pendant hung perfectly right above her cleavage. Luka gulped slightly and grabbed the scarf to give it to the waiter. He needed to get his eyes away from her cleavage. He was a perfect gentleman after all, but he was still a man after all. 

Luka never really noticed until tonight, how maturity really had its way with Marinette’s body. Her subtle, yet noticeable curves could make any man ecstatic. And Luka was feeling lucky, not only by being able to see Marinette in such a dress. And the way her hair was falling down her clavicles, only to make another trail for his eyes to follow downward. No! He couldn’t let that happen. As desirable as she was, he couldn’t bring himself to be like that. He was already feeling like he was being pushy enough too, just by inviting her that night.

She hadn’t talked about Adrien for a long time, but that didn’t mean she forgot about him right? She was giving him a chance, but he needed to figure out her true feelings. And that was the most complicated part. He could feel the emotions in her, and stroke some strings to make a melody out of it. But feelings and emotions are two separate things after all.

So after he took a deep breath, they began to follow the waiter. He helped Marinette sit down before walking around the table and taking his place. It was at this time he felt he needed to tell her how gorgeous she looked. “I must say you look stunning Marinette.” He said softly, smiling as he pulled back the chair to sit.

A small blush came to her already rosy cheeks. “Oh well, thank you. You’re quite a catch yourself, Luka.” Marinette said, with a smirk, as her eyes admired him. His blue waistcoat and white shirt were kinda simple. Along with his pants that were a bit skinny, which made his legs look slim and his butt a perfect peach.

Marinette had a glance at it when he went to his chair. She was pleased with what she saw. She could never deny how handsome he was. However, the comment she just gave him flustered him. She never said anything like that to him before. He chuckled nervously before finally  sitting down.

The waiter brought a bottle of sparkling wine in an ice bucket. She couldn’t hide her surprise to the kind of date he was offering her. It was so different from what she expected. But in the end, she knew how sweet of a guy he was. The dinner was so good, and the atmosphere was so light, although she felt something.. Something she couldn’t identify, like something wasn’t natural. Luka, was doing his part, and was doing his best, while feeling more nervous than ever. This night had to go just right. She was finally on a date with him, he had to do everything he could to make her feel comfortable.

“How about a dessert'?” Asked the garçon. Luka looked cautiously at Marinette. Who was smiling at him, while leaning forward resting her chin on her hands and looking at him.

“It’s up to you Luka. I’m not hungry, but not full either. I could easily eat something else.” Luka gulped and smiled.

His mind was racing as he thought. ‘Did she not notice how her body was moving with those simple gestures.” He turned to the waiter. “Just  two teas please.”

The garçon slightly bowed. “I’ll be back with the box so you can make your choice.”

When Luka looked back at her, Marinette was tilting her head a bit, smiling, offering a view of her neck. ‘Dammit Marinette, why are you so cute?’ He cursed to himself. Everything was appealing with her, even the texture of her skin was calling out to him. “I have something for you Marinette.”

Hearing him say this made her face light up, Marinette smiled as she lifted her head. “Really?”

Luka smiled and got up to ask the waiter to bring him his backpack. When the waiter returned, Luka stood and thanked him. Now with his backpack in hand he opened it and took out a present. It looked like it was something light and soft, like some fabric. Probably fabric she told herself. He sat back down and handed it over to Marinette. “Merry Christmas Marinette.” He whispered hoarsely. She pursed her lips as she took it. She shredded the wrapping paper around it, excited to see what was inside. Which made Luka’s heart skip a beat. He laughed a bit and looked at her. Realizing her behaviour, she turned a bit red. “Sorry...that wasn’t very ladylike of me.” Luka simply gave her a sweet smile as his answer. Marinette smiled, a bit embarrassed and cleared her throat to unwrap the last pieces around the present.

Laying before her, was a dark pink fabric. Her fingers ran across the hem to softly take it to detail it. The fabric was an excellent quality. Very soft. And yet warm. She unfolded the shawl to take a look at it. A smile grew on her face. “It's beautiful…” Her words echoed in Luka’s ears.

He soon got up and went to her, then carefully held out his hand to her. “If I may…?” She placed her hand in his and smiled as she got up. He took the piece of clothing and wrapped it around her shoulders, his arms now around her. She moved her hair up out of the way. When she looked up their eyes locked for a few seconds… that felt like minutes. She was smiling so gently at him.

But why was he feeling so out of place. He took a step back with a smile as he saw the waiter bringing the box with the tea and their cups of hot water.

Marinette was flustered. She never thought Luka would be the one to pull away from this kind of situation. Maybe he was uncomfortable with her in the end? Or was he regretting something? They both sat down and drank their tea, awkwardly chit-chatting. She could tell Luka was trying hard to make her have a good time though.

After paying the bill, they both went out to go to the ice rink. When they arrived, all the lights were out. “Luka.. it looks like it's closed..” Marinette said, looking up at the sign, disappointed. A little sharp noise however caught her attention. She looked at the door and she could see a faint shadow opening the door. The skating trainer was the one opening to them. He opened the door quickly and greeted both of them. Marinette looked at both the men, surprised.

Philippe than handed the keys to Luka. “Do not forget to close everything before you leave, okay?”

“Don’t worry, Phil I won’t!” Luka said, taking the keys from Philippe.

Marinette, was speechless, while still staring at them. “H-how? What is..?”

Philippe smiled at Marinette’s reaction. “Well, I’ll let you two have fun! Luka, you know where to leave the keys when you leave.” He said, as his left waving at the two friends.

The young girl turned around to look at Luka, who was taking some skating shoes. “38, right?”

“Um.. Yeah.., but I didn’t know you were friends with Philippe?”

“Oh, yeah. The last time we came, when you left. I went back inside to talk to him a bit, we just kind of got along. And when I came by to check on him a few times. I asked him if it was okay if I used the place tonight.”

“So, it’ll be only us?”  Luka nodded, smiling as he walked with Marinette to the door of the rink.

“And it’s not all…” He opened the doors and walked inside. The room was in the dark and she narrowed her eyes to try to see something. Luka went behind a door, she heard something like a switch being turned on. It was than her eyes grew wide instantly. The site of lights and not just any lights, they were beautiful Christmas lights hanging all around the room. Thousands of little colorful shiny bulbs, making the room look like a dream. And with special music floating in the air… Melodies of an acoustic guitars. And once again.. she was speechless. Her voice seemed to have left her body, like when Luka had been akumatized, but this time.. it was a really good kind of out of voice.

She turned around to look at Luka, who just walked up to her again. “So, do you like it?”

“Do I like it? Luka, it’s gorgeous.. it must have taken you hours to put up all of these lights.”

Luka chuckled as they were both looking around. “Four hours and I almost broke my wrist from falling off a ladder.” Luka gave her the sweetest look. “But it was worth it just to see that look on your face…”

Marinette smiled back at him. They both put on their skates and slowly went in the rink, making a few rounds to warm up. Luka was charming. Trying so hard to make this a good time for her.  Marinette marked a stop in the middle of the rink and looked at Luka. “Luka…?”

He stopped not too far from her and faced her. “Yes..? Is everything alright?”

Marinette took a deep breath, looking at Luka. She slid closer and leaned her hand on his cheek. Luka’s eyes grew a bit wider and even blushed a bit. She smiled at him. She finally pinpointed what felt awkward. He was trying too hard. Maybe he was doubting about her desire to be with him on Christmas. Maybe he was afraid she was still longing for Adrien. Maybe he didn’t want to pressure her. But he pressured himself instead. “I wanted to be here tonight. I wanted to spend Christmas with you, and only you.”

Something in Luka relaxed, his shoulders dropped down. He pursed his lips slightly but before he could say anything, her arms were already wrapped around his body. She was holding onto him so tightly, he hugged her back, leaning his chin on her head. His half closed eyes were wandering off to a distant part of the room, enjoying the warmth of her body against his. Her curves, the feeling of her hands on his back, her head on his chest. Luka was well aware of all those details. Of her breathing, the littlest moves she was doing, her fingers slowly tracing circles on his back. After a few minutes she leaned back, smiling. “And I truly feel like an enchanted princess with all these night you gave me Luka.”

He was lacking the words to answer, so he just placed a few strands of her hair behind her ear. This simple move, that could feel like something normal, was forming some kind of intimacy between the two of them. Her eyes drifted along his face, her cheeks warming up a bit. His hand slowly wandered from behind her ear, across her jawline, his thumb stopping on her chin. He cleared his throat, yet a hoarse voice came out softly from his lips. “May I?”

Marinette smiled and stretched her neck to answer. They met halfway from one another. His lips pressed against hers. Her right hand was now cupping his cheek while his left one was leaning against her hip. Her own hands were still wrapped around him, pulling him as close as she could. This kiss was softer than anything else in the world. And lasted a few minutes. Both taking their time to enjoy the moment. When they pulled away, they looked at each other. Her eyes were shimmering as she looked up at him. Something in her eyes changed, and it took Luka everything he had to pull away. He was still feeling her body moving slightly against his and the new proximity they had was awakening something in him. Or on him. In a cough, he pulled away slightly, his hands running down her arms to intertwine their fingers, pulling her in for a dance on the rink. She was giggling, and clearly having a good time. And it meant everything to him.

Suddenly, a voice rang through the speakers. Jagged Stone’s voice. “I hope you enjoyed the surprise Marinette. It’s midnight and I wish you a Merry Christmas.”

Marinette looked around. It was a recording. She laughed a bit and looked at Luka. “You got to record Jagged Stone for me?” She said, smiling.

“As soon as I mentioned your name, he was in.” They both smiled and Luka kissed her cheek. “Merry Christmas Marinette.”

Marinette wrapped her arms around his neck. She whispered softly before kissing him again.

 “Merry Christmas Luka.”

[aliblujay]

ML Secret Santa 2019

Happy holidays @clivearts! This year I had the lucky opportunity to be your Secret Santa for @mlsecretsanta! I had so much fun writing it and I really hope you enjoy it just as much as I enjoyed writing it!

AO3

“Why are we even here, Alya? You know I don’t like big parties like this.” Marinette picked at the fuzz on her sweater, eyes gloomed over and eyebrows furrowed. She had planned on a cozy night in, curling up and watching some movies. But Alya wouldn’t stop blowing up her phone and eventually, bursting through the door of her room to get her to come to the party.

“Girl, you need to get out more! You stay up in your room too much. You need to live a little.” Alya takes Marinette by her shoulder, jostling her as they walk towards the boat house. “Besides, I heard Juleka’s brother is totally hot.” She winked at her best friend, giggling. 

Juleka had a brother? This was news to Marinette. Even though she’s know Juleka for a while now, this is the first time she’s heard about a brother. As they walked onto the boat, which Marinette had to still herself when stepping on to get used to the sway, she tried to imagine what Juleka’s brother would look like? Would he have colored hair like hers? Or have just plain black hair? Is he meek and quiet or loud and rambunctious? 

Marinette was lost in thought that she didn’t noticed the bodies in front of her until she crashed into the back of someone. Liquid sloshed onto the ground and angry eyes met hers as they turned around. She squeaked out an apology but the party goer just turned off, getting away from the clumsy girl. Great, what a perfect way to start the night.

Marinette had already lost Alya in the sea of people, and there was no use calling out to find her with the music as loud as it was, pounding into Marinette’s ears. Milling around the crowd, trying to find some of her school friends, caused Marinette’s patiences to wear thin. She eventually gave up and sat on one of the benches away from the crowd, her phone in her hand as she scrolled through her Instagram. 

About the time she was going to call it quits and leave the party to try and salvage the rest of her night, a shadow dropped over her. “Having a good time?”

Marinette looks up to see an unfamiliar, but stunning face. He gave her a large smile, his hands resting in his dark, ripped up jean pockets. When her eyes met his, she felt a small flutter in her heart, and was at lost for words. Staring at him with wide eyes, she stammered for a bit before pushing out one word. “No.”

His eyebrows shoot up, hiding beneath his blue and black hair before relaxing again and letting out a chuckle. “Oh? Well, then that’s a shame.” 

Alya fights her way through the crowd, and then runs up to Marinette, her breath heavy. “I was looking everywhere for you.” She turns her head and noticed the boy, giving Marinette a smirk. “Oh, it seems you already met Luka.” Smiling at him, she introduces him to Marinette. “Luka, I would like you to meet my best friend, Marinette. Marinette, this is Juleka’s brother, Luka.”

Marinette’s checks began to redden, realizing that he was the one throwing the party and she had just insulted him. Looking at him with wide eyes, she begins to stammer. “Oh-oh, that’s not what I meant! I mean, I-I’m having a good time, I just, I’m just so tired you know and-“

Alya looks at her and then Luka before smirking and slowly backing away as Luka laughs off Marinette’s words, sitting down next to her. “You’re fine. It’s okay. I promise. I’m not really a huge party person myself. I just did this for Juleka so she could interact with people more and try to get out of her bubble.” He looks into the crowd and notices his sister laughing with her friends, her smile radiate to those around her. “It seems like it worked.”

Marinette notices the adoration on his face and she felt her heart strings twinge. Wringing her hands, trying to slow her heart rate, she looks over at him and smiles. “So… you like Jagged Stone too?”

At the mention of the rock star’s name, his face lit up. “He’s really inspired me with my own music. What songs of his do you like?”

The two talk about music for a good bit, ignoring the party that was in full swing ahead of them. After an hour, Luka takes Marinette’s hands in his own. “Can I show you something I’ve been working on?”

Marinette fights back a blush, trying to contain her excitement. “Uh, sure! I’ll love to!” She says as he leads her below deck, where the music is now softer and the air is warmer. Marinette is still being lead by Luka, his hand warm around hers and hopes that he never lets go, even if it means her heart beats out of her chest. 

Leading her to his room, he sits her on the bed, before grabbing his guitar and sitting at the head of the bed. He gives her a smile before closing his eyes and running his fingers over the strings, the sound vibrating from the instrument low and sweet. As he plays, she feels each note in her chest, as if the song he plays was a secret message just for her. As each note sung out from the guitar, she felt her breath hitch, the feeling of first love strong and beautiful. 

She was no longer watching his fingers play, but watching his body sway to the music, watching his face shift with each note, the corners of his lips twitching, concealing a whisper of a smile. She was ensnared by the boy in front of her, taken back by his charm.

It took all her self control to keep from leaning forward and pressing her lips against his, to run her fingers through his black and blue hair. Her heart was beating faster in her chest, her check feeling hotter. 

When Luka was done, his eyes fluttered open, and landed on Marinette. She smiled and bite her lips to stopped them from quivering. Noticing, he tilts his head, concern filling his eyes. “Are you okay?” 

Marinette makes a small “mhm”, nodding her head. She lets go of her lips, feeling an indentation of where her teeth bit down hard and cleared her throat. “It was beautiful. Powerful.”

He beams, setting the guitar down beside him. “Thank you. I had been working on it for some time, but when I was sitting up there, talking to you, it just hit me.” He looked at Marinette, no, he peered into her soul. Marinette watched the color in his eyes shift from a cooler, bright blue to a more softer, darker shade. Marinette felt her checks grow warm and in her embarrassment, she broke eye contact, holding her checks in attempt to hide her blush. “You know, it’s getting really late and I should be going home!”

She gets up quickly to leave but Luka reaches out and takes her wrist softly in his. “Please,” his eyes turned sad, eyebrows drawn in. “Won’t you stay a little longer?” 

Marinette looked at his hand on her wrist and he let go, letting his fingers linger on her skin for a bit. “I’m sorry. I just-“ He paused for a moment, looking down. “I’ve really enjoyed my time with you and didn’t want it to end, you know?” He stood up and that was when Marinette realized that he was tall, standing about a head over her. He looked down at her, brushing a strand of hair aside. “I promise to play nice.” He gave a slight smile, which pulled at Marinette’s heart. 

Unable to say no, she nodded her head. “S-Sure. Another hour or two shouldn’t hurt, right?” 

They spent the rest of the night together, laughing and talking, the two of them alone while the guest partied under the moon. They didn’t even realize when the last person left and Juleka groggily made her way to her half of the bedroom, passing out with a quick “good night”. They played card games, watched movies and told stories until the sun peeked above the horizon, signaling the end of their night. Marinette never realized how much she didn’t want the night to end until the first rays of morning shone through the lower deck’s window, the light dancing on the wall. She looked at Luka, who was curled up under a blanket with her and wished she could’ve had more time with him. Her shoulders dropped.

Luka, noticing her sadness, took her hand in his and met her gaze. “You don’t have to leave just yet. You can stay longer if you like.”

Marinette felt her face split into a smile, leaned back into him. “Thank you Luka, for inviting me to stay.” Tilting her head up, she looked at him and have him a peck on the cheek. “I had so much fun tonight.” 

Instead of replying, he took her face in his hands and Marinette’s breath stilled, her eyes widening as he leaned down. His breath tickled her lips as he pressed them against her, his lips so soft. Marinette’s heart was now beating a hundred miles per minute but it didn’t stop her from kissing him back. Moving his arms around her waist, he pulled her in closer, deepening the kiss.

Marinette leaned into the kiss and felt like she was in heavy. Nothing was going to stop this feeling if-

“Oh my god, get a room.” Juleka’s voice broke through Marinette’s thoughts and sent her tumbling out of Luka’s arms, who ended up clearing his throat, eye’s closed and clearly irritated with his little sister. “Don’t you think it’s a little early for you be awake?” His eyes flew open on the last word, giving her a small, but frustrated smile.

“Rose and I have a breakfast date. I wanted to get ready. Good morning, Marinette. Feel free to use the shower if you need it. We also have some coffee if you’ll like it.” She nodded at her friend, who crouched on the ground, slowly dying from embarrassment. 

“I’ll be good, thanks.” Looking up at Luka, she whispered. “It’s probably best that I go.”

Blowing out a sigh, he got up, giving her a sad smile. “Let me at least walk you up.” He reached out his hand to her, helping her up from the ground. She collected her stuff, giving Juleka a small wave, who returned it with raised eyebrows and a small smirk. “I guess I’ll be seeing you around more then.” 

Hurrying up the stairs, Marinette started to make her way to the exit of the ship when Luka grabbed her hand to stop her. “I’m sorry about Juleka. I didn’t think she would be awake this early, especially with the party last night.” He brushes a strand of his hair away, blowing out a huge sigh. “I was really hoping to make you breakfast this morning too.” He gave her hand a squeeze.

Marinette returned the squeeze. “Maybe tomorrow?”

His eyes lit up. “Are you sure? I mean, I would love to have you-“

Marinette reaches up, standing on her toes and presses her lips against his, stopping him mid sentence. “Consider it a date.”

[breathing-and-writing]

Care For A Dance?

Hi @agrestenoir, I’m your @mlsecretsanta! I hope you enjoy your gift and that you continue having happy holidays!

~~~

This year’s Agreste Winter Gala was not what Adrien had been expecting at all. Well, some of his expectations had been met. Being assigned a date for the evening that he actually enjoyed spending time with? Check. That date being the best cousin ever that he hadn’t seen in months? Check. His father actually leaving the house for his monthly public appearance? Check. Nathalie looking relaxed and happy due to the holiday spirit? Check. Seeing the love of his life, less than twenty-four hours since their identities had been revealed, with absolutely no time to process the information and their whole relationship on the line since they had literally run away the moment the truth had been known? Not check, so not check, abort mission, abort!

Adrien had actually been hoping for the evening to be his chance to relax and not think about it, since he was like, a hundred percent sure that they wouldn’t be running into each other, but, of course, he had a black cat’s luck. Well, they hadn’t really run into each other yet, but the fifth time that Adrien had ducked to hide behind Anneliese, she had let him know that he would never hear the end of it. Now he also had been avoiding giving her an explanation.

Adrien was about to make an escape when he caught Natalie’s stern look. Right, the mandatory dance with his date, how could he have forgotten? He turned towards his cousin with an extended hand but froze at her mischievous look. Oh boy, there was no way he could get out of the interrogation now, and she knew it.

With a grin, she took his hand and practically dragged him to the dance floor. They started to sway with the first notes of the music, and he gulped, here we go.

“So, are you finally gonna tell me why you’ve been acting weird all day?” Wow, she couldn’t even soften it a little?

“Me? Acting weird? How can you say that? I’ve been acting perfectly normal all day.” He was trying to make himself sound nonchalant, he probably wasn’t succeeding.

“Oh, gotcha.” He tried not to crack under her look, it was okay, he could do this. “So, just to confirm, it has absolutely nothing to do with the girl in the pink dress that you’ve been staring at all evening?” How she had managed to make her voice sound so innocent when her look clearly was not, he had no idea.

“My gir- I mean, a girl? No, I don’t know who you could be talking about.” Was he sweating? He hoped he wasn’t. He definitely felt like he was, though.

“She’s pretty, I’ll give you that”

“Yeah, she is.” He said with a sigh.

Anneliese shook her head, just what had happened while she was gone? She hoped she could find out before it was time for her next trip, otherwise, she was going to have to deal with the biggest cliffhanger ever. She prepared to deliver the final blow.

“She’s looking at you right now.”

While his distress was evident, she had the nosy cousin’s obligation to intervene and to embarrass him further.

“You know what? Now that the song’s over,” she said the words a little bit louder to break him out of his panicked trance, “why don’t we go talk to Jagged Stone? You’re a fan, right?”

“Yes, I’m a fan. Yeah, I like his music. Yep.”

Wow, he really hadn’t noticed. Well, this was going to be funnier for her. They turned around and started walking towards the rock star. She tried at least, but the vice grip on her arm didn’t let her take more than two steps. Oh, so he finally had noticed.

“Adrien, we’re going.”

“No.”

“Yes, we have to.” She started to pull him forward.

“We don’t have to, he seems busy…”

“Adrien, you’ve been putting this off all evening, we’re going.”

“Please don’t make me do this.” He was begging now, wow, she was impressed. Just who was this girl?

“Okay, Adrien, listen.” Time to assume the supporting cousin role. “We’re going over there, and I’ll help you talk to her, okay? I’ll be with you the entire time, there’s nothing to be worried about.”

Adrien took a deep breath, “okay.”

Oh, the innocence of youth.

She started guiding/dragging her cousin towards the talking pair, not giving him a chance to chicken out. She had a plan in mind, and she was not leaving tonight without seeing it come to fruition.

Once they were close enough to Jagged and the pretty girl, she cleared her throat while she poked his arm. “Do you remember me?”

He glanced towards her, and his face dawned in recognition. “Anneliese, my girl! It’s been so long!” He said with a grin while they executed their unnecessarily long and complicated handshake. Oh yeah, this night kept getting better and better, for her at least. “What are you doing here?”

“Oh, I’m just here accompanying my cousin Adrien.” She pulled him forward from where he had been trying and failing to hide behind her. Seriously, he was taller than her, what did think he was going to accomplish by doing that? “Adrien, say hi.”

“Hi.” He said with the most awkward wave ever.

“Hi.” She concentrated on the girl’s somehow more awkward reaction and yep, these two were definitely made for each other.

“Oh Marinette, is that not the boy from your pictures? You know, the ones that you had all over your room when I went to film the TV show-”

“Yeah! Yeah! I remember, no need to talk about it any further.” Now that they mentioned it, she remembered the TV show they were talking about. At the moment, she had thought that Marinette was just another fan, but there was obviously something else to it. Besides, she didn’t need to look at his cousin’s face to know that it probably resembled a tomato.

“Had I known you were here all along, I would’ve come and said hi earlier.”

“I know! It’s about time we caught up, right?”

“Right.” This was her chance to put her plan into action. “But we don’t want to bore Adrien and Marinette here with our super boring talk, right?” She directed a pointed stare towards the pair that until that moment had been lost in their own trance and looked back to Jagged, the grin and mischievous look that matched hers was all the confirmation she needed.

“Oh yeah, we should totally go somewhere else.”

“What?” Much too late, they realized what was coming for them.

“What? Cuz, you can’t leave me here…” He whispered.

“Anyway, you two guys will be fine together, right?” And without waiting for an answer, she exclaimed: “bye, have fun!”

To finish her statement, she pulled on her cousin’s sleeve to bring his ear down and whisper “be nice, and don’t you dare run away, I’ll be watching.” Someone else probably wouldn’t have noticed the shiver that went down his spine, but as good as he was at hiding his reactions, she had the upper hand in this one.

Almost like they had planned it, Anneliese and Jagged pushed the pair towards each other, making them stumble and catch themselves within their arms. Success.

She left with her arm in Jagged’s like the partners in crime they were and with a look that said one thing: I want all the details later.

“So, what is your plan?”

“Oh, don’t worry, I don’t plan on interfering.” And after a pause, she added: “unless it’s absolutely necessary, of course.”

~~~

They touched for just seconds, what it took them to steady themselves and stand upright, but it was enough to make Adrien long for it again as soon as they separated.

“So…” he started, please don’t make this weird, “I didn’t know you were gonna be here.”

“Yeah, I wasn’t gonna come,” was she as eager and nervous as he was too? “but they told Jagged that he could invite as many people as he wanted as long as he didn’t bring Fang so…”

“Yeah, that makes sense…”

It didn’t matter how his heart was pounding or how warm he felt by her proximity, the tension due to what had happened plagued the air, and he couldn’t help but feel fear because of what could happen, of what he could lose. They needed to talk.

“I-I have to go.” She turned away, body on edge.

“Marinette, wait,” he lightly grasped her arm and sighed when she stopped and turned to him, “please, don’t go.”

“I don’t think I can talk right now, Adrien.” His heart broke at the lost look in her eyes and the smallness of her voice.

“Then we don’t have to,” he leaned down in a small bow, his hand stretching forward, “care for a dance, my lady?”

He would never admit it, but he felt relieved when a light blush covered her cheeks, and her hand felt atop his. They walked to the dance floor hand in hand and started swaying to the music in perfect sync like nothing had happened.

“Your dress is gorgeous. You designed it, right?”

“Yeah, I did,” her answer came through muted teeth and averted eyes, Adrien tried not to panic, don’t say anything rash, don’t scare her off.

“Are you disappointed?” So much for not talking without thinking.

“What?” The question seemed to throw her off, but he couldn’t take it back now.

“That I am him. That he is me. That I ran off instead of staying to talk last night. Of everything?” This time he looked away, not being able to stand the disappointment that would surely be all over her face.

“Oh, Kitty, I could never be disappointed in you,” her words made him look back, “I ran too, remember?” The positive tone of her previous words vanished as she added, “are you disappointed?”

The most pleasant warmth started to fill his body, “no, I’m not.” It seemed that the previous tension was nowhere to be found, “I’m confused, insecure, scared, happy, eager, in love, and many other things, but never disappointed.”

“What-what was the last thing you said?” Her voice almost came out like a squeak.

“I said…” he turned over in his mind what he had just said, and had all his possible embarrassment of the day not already been burned out during the evening, he would probably be very embarrassed now, “I said I’m in love. With you,” he said clearer this time, “my feelings haven’t changed Bug.”

As the words left his mouth, he knew they couldn’t be more true, even if he hadn’t planned to talk about it so soon, he would never be tired of saying it, and he would never regret it. Even if the insecurity killed him every time she didn’t answer. Was it too much? Does she not feel the same? The sensation of something brushing the top of his head broke his train of thought. Had it been his imagination? It appeared not, for Marinette was looking at that something, and it was making her blush. He looked up to see what it was, and, honestly, he should’ve been expecting something like this, especially with his cousin still somewhere on the venue.

There, dangling over their heads from a red rope, which looked unstable and poorly arranged, was a single sprig of mistletoe.

Adrien gulped and tried to fight the blush that was taking over his cheeks, “you know, we don’t have to-”

That’s when he felt it: warm, soft, and oh so perfect. The quickest and most delicate of pecks, just beside his own lips. He looked down in surprise, butterflies filling him at the sight of her gleaming eyes and dazzling smile, with blushed cheeks that most likely mimicked his own.

He held her more closely, like that day in Chloe’s party that seemed so, so long ago now, with no intention of ever letting her go. He leaned down to touch his forehead to hers, happy to just sway to the music while looking at her and communicating without words, knowing that everything would be alright, just like they did every day in battle.

And well, had they been paying attention to anything in their surroundings, they probably would’ve noticed a not-so sneaky pair high-fiving and taking pictures.

[alwaysinstoryland]

Snowflakes and Iceskates

Merry Christmas and a very very happy new year @miraculousladyb I’m your secret santa for the @mlsecretsanta this year!! Hope you’ve had a wonderful holiday season.

Sorry it’s a little late, I was waiting till I wasn’t on mobile to post this so I could put it under a cut.

Hope you enjoy ♡ ♡

Read on AO3

Ladybug sighed contentedly as she watched the figures on the ground below her glide gracefully around the ice. It was a quiet, chilly night in Paris that night and almost everyone was bundled up warm and cozy inside, save for a few couples that had taken to the ice. They looked so happy and she almost wished she could be down there too. But she had been out for so long already that the cold was starting to seep through her suit. She would be better off heading back to the warmth of her home before she froze. 

She was just standing up, ready to leave, when a familiar figure sitting on a bench near the ice rink caught her eye. Upon looking closer, she saw that it was Adrien, and he appeared to be by himself. Without thinking too much about it, she hooked her yoyo onto one of the trees near him and swung down. “Hi.” She said, landing next to him.

He looked up and a surprised smile crossed his face before he jumped to his feet. “Ladybug! What are you doing here?” He asked, tilting his head at her.

“I was just about to ask you the same question. Doesn’t your bodyguard usually have to accompany you whenever you go out?” She glanced around, but still saw no sign of the Gorilla. 

Adrien rubbed the back of his neck. “Usually. I uh- I kinda snuck out. It was feeling a bit stifling being stuck at home right now.” He admitted quietly. 

“Oh.”Ladybug bounced on the spot a little and blew into her hands to warm them, frowning in concern. “If you ever need to talk about anything, I’m here.”

“Thank you, Ladybug.” He shot her a grateful smile, then asked, “Are you cold?”

“No- no, it’s fine!” She assured, but he was already undoing his scarf. 

“Here,” he said, lifting the scarf- the one she’d made- over his head and looping it gently around her neck, making sure to tuck it securely under her chin. His hands lingered for a moment, then dropped back to his side. “We can’t have Paris’ favourite superheroine getting a cold, now can we?”

“O-oh thank you.” She ducked her head to hide the flush that came to her cheeks when he gave her a soft look, and fiddled with the ends of the scarf. “Nice scarf.” She murmured, trying to distract herself from the hopeful daydream that was starting to play out in her mind at his sweet gesture. 

“Yes,” he gave her a strangely knowing smile. “It was a gift from a very sweet friend. I haven’t been able to tell her how much it means to me though, that she made it herself just for me.“

Ladybug sucked in a breath, lifting her eyes to his. Adrien was watching her earnestly, like her reaction to his words was the only thing that mattered in that moment. It felt startlingly like he knew exactly who he was actually talking to, though she knew that couldn’t be true. “I’m sure she already knows.” She muttered, turning her gaze away from his again to stare out at the couples still going around the ice. “Do you want to go iceskating?” She asked suddenly. 

He blinked and looked over to the ice rink as well. “I’d love to.”

With matching smiles to each other, they made their way to the rink. It wasn’t long before they were out on the ice. But to Adrien’s surprise, Ladybug didn’t seem to be particularly at ease on the ice. She hovered near the edge of the rink. 

“Are you alright?” he asked. 

“Yeah, don’t tell Chat Noir,” she laughed. “But I’m actually not very good at iceskating.”

“Really?” Adrien frowned a little in confusion. “But what about Frozer? Didn’t you have to iceskate then to defeat him since he had frozen everything?”

“I wouldn't have been able to do that without the ice power up. If we didn’t have that I doubt the fight would’ve been as short as it was. But I’ve just never been good at iceskating, no matter how many times I try.” She slid forwards a few wobbly steps. 

After a moment's consideration, he held out his hand to her. “Here, I’ll help you.”

She felt her cheeks grow warm and she quickly put her hand in his before she could convince herself otherwise. He gently tugged her a little closer before taking her other hand and beginning to slowly move backwards. She followed and they continued like that, staring at each other. When she seemed to be getting the hang of it, he let go of one of her hands and moved so he was skating beside her. “You never said what you were doing out” He mentioned as they went round hand in hand. “I didn’t think you or Chat Noir patrolled today?”

“We weren’t going to but I felt restless so I thought I would come out for a bit of fresh air. I was actually about to head back when I saw you.”

He frowned. “I hope I didn’t keep you from anything important.”

The two of them slowly slid to a stop and she shot him a gentle smile. “It wasn’t anything that couldn’t be done any other time.”

“That’s good.” He said. 

They stood for another moment in silence, and she could almost imagine that their faces were slowly getting closer. 

“You know, I think I’ll take you up on your offer to talk after all.” He murmured. 

“Y- yeah?” 

“Can you come tomorrow? To my room?”

She nodded, looking concerned for him again. “Of course. I can be there in the evening.”

“That would be perfect.” He smiled at her, then reluctantly let go of her hand so they could leave. “Goodnight Ladybug.”

...

The next day Adrien couldn’t help but be in a good mood all day, and his friends certainly noticed. When Nino has nudged him and asked with a teasing grin why he was so happy, Adrien had only shrugged and gave a vague excuse about sleeping really well the night before. Nino didn’t seem to buy it but hadn’t questioned further, though Adrien had later noticed him and Alya whispering together and looking between him and Marinette. 

The day flew by and before he knew it, school was over and he was back in his room, spinning around excitedly in his desk chair, waiting for his lady to arrive although he knew it would still be a couple of hours at least until she would get there. He didn’t mind. He spent the time asking Plagg multiple times if he was really sure that Marinette liked him and each time his kwami had assured him that she was crazy about him. “Do you think she’ll be upset that I found out her identity?” He had asked at one point, but Plagg had simply shrugged. 

It was just on dark when Ladybug arrived. She gave a little tap on the glass and Adrien almost tripped over his feet in his rush to get the window. “Ladybug! Hi!” He said breathlessly, sounding for all the world like he hadn’t known she was coming. Then he internally cringed at how excited he sounded and took a deep breath to calm himself down. 

“Hi.” She said with a little giggle, giving a little wave and hopping down through the window. “You wanted to talk to me about something?”

He nodded. “Yeah. I uh- I have something I need to tell you.” She was looking at him with such a concerned look that it was hard to breathe for a second, but he managed to get the words out. 

Ladybug tilted her head. “Okay, I’m listening.”

“Um…” It was a lot easier to imagine himself telling her that he knew her secret identity than it was to actually tell her. He sucked in a breath and his hand automatically moved up to rub the back of his neck. “Well, please don’t freak out, I kinda accidentally saw you detransform one day a little while ago.”

The silence that followed his words was almost painful. Ladybug blinked several times, before it really sunk in what he’d said. Her mouth opened, then closed, then opened again and she whispered. “You what?” In a strained voice. 

He swallowed. “I know your secret identity. I didn’t mean to find out!” He added quickly. 

She looked like she was about to faint and he took a tiny step forwards just in case. “Marinette? Are you okay?” He asked when she said nothing further. “I’m really sorry. I know your identities are supposed to stay a secret. But I promise I won’t tell anyone. Your secret is safe with me.” He rushed to assure her before she could panic even more. 

“I know.” She nodded. “I know you won’t.”

Adrien breathed a sigh of relief. She wasn’t taking it too badly, all things considered. “Well now that that’s out of the way, I wanted to ask if Marinette would be willing to go iceskating with me again. Like…” He paused. “As a date?”

He watched as Ladybug’s eyes went impossibly wide. “A date?” She repeated. 

“Yeah. A date.” He took her hand. “I really like you.”

“I’d love to go on a date with you.” She breathed, and they both grinned. 

[their-destinys-writer]

ML Secret Santa

Merry Christmas @breathing-and-writing​ I’m your Secret Santa! I was afraid I wasn’t going to be able to finish it, but thankfully it’s here. Thanks to the @mlsecretsanta team for organizing this fun event every year. Hope you enjoy this little fic I wrote for you!

Winter Wonderland with Ladybug and Chat Noir

“How much longer?” Chat Noir whined, tightly holding his staff.

“Just one more second... There,” Ladybug said at last, when the star was properly placed on top of the twelve-foot tree in the middle of the park next to Marinette’s home. As soon as she said the last word, Chat Noir lowered his staff to bring her back to the ground. With the speed, Ladybug yelped.

“Awesome job! It looks great!” he breathed.

“You could’ve warned me first!” Ladybug complained, as she steadied herself.

“My bad,” Chat Noir chuckled, scratching the back of his head. Ladybug shook her head.

“Okay, that’s done. What’s left?”

“The bag.”

“You think you can handle it?” she asked.

“Who do you take me for?” Chat Noir scoffed and started flexing his arms. “With these, I can carry anything.”

“Sure you can,” Ladybug snorted. “Please don’t rip it on the way here.”

“You got it,” he said, with a two-fingered salute, right before running off.

Meanwhile, Ladybug took a deep breath before turning around and heading to the other side of the tree. There, children between the ages of three to ten were standing in a line and started cheering the second they saw her. Standing next to a large red chair was Mayor Bourgeois speaking with several people who seemed to be employees of City Hall.

“Mr. Mayor?” she inquired.

The Mayor jumped at hearing her voice and quickly turned on his heels.

“Thank goodness you came!” he exclaimed, immediately grabbing her arm and dragging her in front of the chair. “You’ll be sitting here, or standing, whatever you’d like. And, uuh, where’s that—Aha!” He took a Santa hat and shoved it on Ladybug’s head. “Just be nice to the kids. And the presents. Where are the presents?!”

“Here, Mr. Mayor!” Chat Noir pipped up from where Ladybug had come, seeming to be struggling to hold the giant velvet bag. With as much care as he could, he placed it on the ground. “We got everything.”

“My reputation is saved—I-I mean, Christmas is saved! Good job, you two,” Mayor Bourgeois said nervously. “You can start whenever you’re ready. I need to attend other matters.”

He then scuttled away with the employees he had been arguing with before. Ladybug and Chat Noir couldn’t help but exchange deadpan looks at the Mayor’s priorities. Taking deep breaths, Ladybug gave Chat Noir a resolute look and asked: “Ready?”

“Absolutely.” Chat Noir grinned.

The line was opened and children started walking in. While Chat Noir took out the presents from the giant bag, Ladybug grabbed them and gave them to the kids that continued walking in. While the heroes were disappointed with the Mayor’s political reasoning for the activity, Ladybug couldn’t help but enjoy herself.

The children were excited to see them. They asked for pictures and advice on how to be heroes themselves. They were grateful with whatever they got, whether it was a ball or a doll they could play with. Somewhere in the excitement, Chat Noir got a Santa hat, too. Where he got it, no one knew.

Ladybug was especially proud that they stopped a kid from crying, and even managed to make them laugh instead. Other kids that were scared seemed to have gotten at ease when they realized they weren’t meeting Santa, but their favorite heroes instead.

To their surprise, they found themselves having… fun.

During the entire activity, Ladybug and Chat Noir continuously exchanged looks. The less presents were in the bag, the more the butterflies fluttered in her stomach. Until, two hours later, there was nothing left.

“That’s everything,” Chat Noir announced.

“Good thing we’re out of kids, too,” Ladybug sighed in relief.

“Thank you for coming, Ladybug and Chat Noir,” Mayor Bourgeois said, running out of nowhere and shaking Ladybug’s hand. “You have truly saved my butt with this activity. I never thought XY would cancel in the last minute.”

“It was our pleasure, Mayor Bourgeois,” Ladybug assured him, placing her other hand on top of his. “It’s the least we could do for the children of Paris.”

“Yes, yes, for the children,” the man assured, though it seemed to be more for himself than for anyone else listening. “How may I repay you for this?”

“No need,” Chat Noir intervened, taking off his hat and placing it on the red chair. “We’re here to serve the community, not for recognition.”

“Exactly,” Ladybug agreed, taking her own hat off. “We just hope that the rest of the festivities go well.”

“Yes, everything seems to be going as planned,” the Mayor said in a relieved tone. “Thank you again. I hope you can enjoy the rest of the Winter Wonderland.”

“Thanks, but we have a previous engagement,” Ladybug said, exchanging a look with Chat Noir, who immediately blushed. “But I hope everyone else is having fun. Chat, shall we?”

“Y-Yes!” he stammered.

With one last goodbye to the Mayor, they jumped away from the area. A few swings and vaults later, they landed together behind one of the vendor stalls, where it was secluded from the rest of the crowds.

“Ready?” Ladybug asked.

Chat Noir grinned. “Yeap.”

In unison, the heroes called on their detransformation phrases. Two flashes of light later, Marinette and Adrien were standing before each other, snuggled in thick winter jackets and earmuffs.

“It’s so cold!” Tikki complained, immediately diving into Marinette’s scarf. “Can we get that hot chocolate now?”

“With cheese!” Plagg pipped up, less bothered by the cold.

“We’ll make sure to get as much hot chocolate and cheese as you guys want,” Adrien chuckled. “But right now, I need to do something first.” He bowed and extended his hand towards Marinette. “M’Lady, would you give me the honor to finally take you on our first date?”

Marinette giggled at the boy’s antics. Nevertheless, she placed her hand on his, the butterflies from before fluttering with higher potency.

“I would love to go on this date with you, Chaton.”

Adrien squeezed her hand as he stood straight. His grin grew so much, almost all of his teeth were visible. And Marinette couldn’t help but grin dorkily back.

“Where to first?” He asked.

“Hmm.” Marinette placed a finger on her chin. “I think we should start in the pastry stall, so Tikki and Plagg can get their goodies first.”

“Thank you!” Plagg dramatically swooned in midair. With a deadpan look, Adrien grabbed him by the tail and pulled him into his coat.

“You seem to forget you’re supposed to be hiding,” he scolded.

“Marinette, he’s being mean to me again!” the kwami yelled, half muffled by the clothes. He then poked his head out. “Defend me!”

“Maybe if you weren’t such a nuisance, your charge would be a little nicer,” Tikki retorted, narrowing her eyes at her partner.

“Now, now, this is not the season to be grumpy, you three,” Marinette said.

“Why three? I’m completely innocent!” Adrien and Plagg said in unison.

“They really are made for each other,” Tikki giggled. Marinette couldn’t help but laugh, too, her cackles growing louder when Adrien pouted.

“Come on,” she said at last, pulling on his hand. “We don’t have all night, and I really don’t wanna spend it having silly arguments.”

“You’re right,” Adrien agreed, a lopsided grin curving his lips. He then proceeded to kiss the back of her hand, powdering her cheeks with pink. “I wanna enjoy tonight as much as I can with you.”

“Me too,” Marinette said, with a giddy smile.

The couple stepped out of their hiding place and finally properly admired the Winter Wonderland the city had built for the occasion. Christmas lights decorated all of the vendor stalls, trees, and even the benches. The smell of coffee, chocolate and pastries filled the air. Couples and families walked about, children were having snowball fights. And there was a group of carolers singing Petite Papa Noël on a stage on the far end of the park.

It almost looked like something out of a magical Christmas Movie, complete with light snow starting to fall.

“Chocolate first, right?” Marinette turned to look at Adrien as she spoke, but immediately noticed he was staring off into the distance. “Hey, are you okay?”

“This is the first time I spend Christmas outside of my home, away from my family,” he said quietly.

Marinette gave his hand a light squeeze.

“You’re still with family when you’re with me.”

He looked back at her, his eyes glassy but a fond smile on his lips.

“I know,” he whispered. “It’s just weird.”

“You don’t have to, if you don’t want.”

“No, I’m very happy to spend it with you. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Marinette’s smile returned.

“Okay,” she said, standing on the tip of her toes to give him a kiss on the cheek. “Lead the way, then.”

Softly, he leaned down to kiss her temple thanking her for her understanding, sending a wave of warmth down Marinette’s body. With a last knowing look, they officially entered the festivities, hoping this was only the first of many more dates to come.