Marinette could get used to the view - barely covered by a blanket Adrien sprawled on his bed in the perfect cuddling position. She scooted closer. His chiselled-by-workouts body, his gorgeous face, peaceful and calm in his slumber, messy hair splattered all over his pillow, the perfect, slightly open lips… Gently, she ran her fingers across his evenly rising and falling chest just as the first rays of sun peeked through the curtains. Adrien wriggled his nose and scrunched his face. The muscles on his chest twitched and murmuring under his breath, he twisted in his sleep, curling away from her and the sunlight. Marinette giggled. Yup, she could definitely get used to the view - gorgeous, but still adorable and dorky. She shifted closer again and rested her head on Adrien's back, thanking the universe for the time zones - still living on the Parisian time was the sole reason Marinette was awake before six in the morning in NYC.

A beeping sound suddenly shattered the silence. Adrien groaned, his hand acting on its own as he shut the alarm off. Without opening his eyes, he turned back to Marinette and wrapped her in a hug.

"Morning," he whispered, his voice deep and rusty from the slumber.

"It's still fifteen minutes to six," Marinette replied. "Didn't you say you don't have to wake up before six?"

"Yup." Adrien yawned. "Get up at six. Fifteen minutes before- cuddle ceremony." He pulled her closer, burying his face into the crook of her neck. "Mhhhh, you smell nice."

Adrien's hair tickling her skin, Marinette giggled as she wrapped her hands around him, placing a kiss on a top of his head. "Sounds perfect."

They lingered in each other's arms for a few minutes before Marinette asked. "What's the plan for today?"

"Office. You. Escape the paparazzi."

Another sound shrieked through the room, and Adrien groaned again, moving closer to Marinette. "Too early. I'm busy. Make it stop."

"I would," Marinette laughed. "But I'm currently being immobilized by a cuddle monster. Can't move. You should've put your phone on Do Not Disturb."

"It is on Do Not Disturb," Adrien replied, opening his eyes. "Except Emma and you have an override privilege." Pulling away, he reached for the device. "Yup. That's her. Give me a few." With a soft smile, Adrien picked up the call. "Morning, sweetheart. How are you? Me? Yes, of course, I'm already up- Momma? Yup. Right here- Okay."

Adrien pressed the speaker mode and Emma's chipper voice immediately filled the room as she dived straight away in telling them everything she'd done since her last call, starting with a new book Grandma Sabine had read her yesterday, finishing with exciting additions to the bakery's breakfast menu she'd helped Grandpapi Tom to choose just now. Then it was Marinette and Adrien's turn to explain what the two of them were planning to do today and when they heard Sabine call Emma's name in the background, Adrien's cell phone alarm went off again.

"I adore Emma to pieces," Adrien admitted, wrapping Marinette into a hug as soon as Emma hung up. "But I'd love to have you all to myself from time to time."

"Possessive, aren't we?" Marinette teased. Laughing at his pout, she added. "Not judging you, though – I might be feeling the same way. Emma's had my undivided attention for five years. I think it's about time she learned to share."

"Let's hope she's a good learner."

"She is. That's one of the things I love about her."

"And I love you," Adrien whispered, leaning closer for a lingering kiss, his hands cupping Marinette's face. "Did you know you're the best thing that had ever happened to me?"

"And you to me," Marinette replied, pressing her lips to his collarbone. "Love you too."

They shared a few more kisses and tender moments before Adrien glanced at the clock. "As heartbroken as I am but it's time to get up, Princess," he sighed. "However, since we've missed the ceremony, what would you say about an evening equivalent?"

"Sounds perfect," Marinette replied with a chuckle, running her fingers through Adrien's hair. "Now, let's pretty you up, so you can finish this thing in style."

Adrien smiled, pulling Marinette in. "You, on the other hand, look perfect already."

"Flatterer."

"Just an honest person."

Swamped by everyday routine, their morning flew by fast. They'd helped each other with the wardrobe choices and cooked their breakfast together, all while deliberating the ways to keep the paparazzi off their track. Adrien departed for the office right after the meal, leaving Marinette to wait for Thomas, the company's driver. About an hour after he'd gone, the paparazzi at the front door largely vanished and Thomas, donning civilian clothes, came by to pick up Marinette in a less suspicious car than the company's limousine. Per Adrien's suggestion, he'd also brought her a disguise - a wig of rich brown waves with red highlights and the biggest pair of sunglasses Marinette had ever seen. Feeling playful, she styled the wig into her signature low ponytails, dressed in the brand-new pair of boyfriend jeans she had bought specifically for this trip and rummaged Adrien's closet for a t-shirt that would fit her.

The effect it had on Adrien was worth the trouble. As he caught her sight of entering the office, his eyes instantly widened. Mouth slack and frozen in his place, Adrien swallowed before saying something to the person he'd been conversing with and leaving them without looking back.

"If you're trying to kill me, you've succeeded," he quietly said into her ear, giving her a welcome cheek kiss.

"Baseless accusations," Marinette whispered back. "Just dressing according to my "Adrien's girlfriend" mood."

"I thought we were trying to hide you."

"From paparazzi." She shrugged. "As far as I know every employee at Gabriel's offices are under a non-disclosure agreement or am I wrong? Plus, don't forget that I'm wearing a wig so even if someone will give me away, all I have to do is to wear a different wig tomorrow."

Adrien chuckled, shaking his head. "That's why you were Ladybug. Always thinking a step ahead." Turning to face the people curiously staring at them from all over the room, he added, "Everyone, this is Marinette Dupain-Cheng - one of the head designers at the main office, bursting with ideas, fearless, kind, gorgeous and simply an amazing person. If I get my way, my future wife, so, please, make her feel welcome and keep her identity under the wraps. I want her to enjoy NYC paparazzi-free."

"Adrien," Marinette yelped, feeling much hotter than just a second ago.

He raised her hand to his lips and kissed it. "Just acting according to my 'I've moved a few steps closer to my goal' mood."

"Dork," she puffed.

"Yours," he grinned. "Now, come on. Let me introduce you to the people Father mentioned in your 'instructions'."

The rest of the day went relatively smoothly. While they spent most of it together, there were a few moments where Marinette explored the office by herself, devoting most time to the designer department, observing, giving advice, taking notes and sketching the new ideas in her sketchbook. To avoid the media, Adrien asked Thomas, their driver, to get their food delivered to the office. When the evening came, he offered her a choice.

"I've got three days left of work at the office - today, Thursday, and half a day on Friday; but since you are here, I can cram in a few extra hours today and on Thursday. That'll leave all of Friday free for us. What do you think?"

"What about Wednesday?"

"Photoshoot. Would take most of the day, though. It's a final one - they'll squeeze whatever they can out from me."

"And Saturday?"

"Nothing really. It was left as a backup day in case I need extra time, but it doesn't look this way as of now."

"So technically we can have two days to ourselves before our Sunday's flight back, right?"

"Yup." Adrien nodded.

"I think the choice is obvious. Why are you even asking me?"

"Because," Adrien wrapped Marinette in a hug, settling beside her on a very comfortable loveseat she'd occupied for the last hour in his office. "Cramming in a few more hours would mean staying here those few more hours, and you've just dozed off for what I suspect was not the first time."

"Sorry," Marinette smiled apologetically. "It's late in Paris and I'm still on their time."

"Then why don't you go home and rest. I'll come when I'm done."

"But-"

"No buts, Marinette," Adrien gently scolded. "We were supposed to go home separately anyway, and Thomas' workday will be over soon, so go and rest."

"I wanted to spend all of the time I can with you."

Adrien nuzzled her nose. "Sleeping in an awkward position on a couch while I'm working can hardly be considered spending time together. You should rest, Marinette. We'll have some time alone tomorrow after the shoot. I might even take you out to one of my favourite places here."

Marinette stayed silent for a second but then failed to suppress a yawn. "You honestly wouldn't mind me leaving you?"

"I insist," Adrien said before a smirk split his lips. "Unless you allow me to ravish you right here, right now-"

"Adrien," Marinette squeaked. "There are people still in the office. You said it yourself - Thomas is waiting to drive me home."

"Risk makes it all more interesting," Adrien leaned down and slowly kissed her neck. "So, what do you say, Princess? May I?"

"I say the most you'll get right now are cuddles," Marinette responded, shoving him away a bit. "But if you manage to finish the work and still catch me awake at home, then I might consider your offer."

"Perfect," Adrien purred, weaving his arms around her back. They stayed like that for a few minutes before Adrien pulled away, saying that Thomas' workday would end in half an hour, so it probably was a good time to call for him. Riding home, Marinette caught herself dozing off a few more times, and once she exited the shower, she crawled under the blankets and blacked out. She didn't hear Adrien coming in a few hours later, but she still snuggled onto him when he pulled her into a hug, giving her a goodnight kiss.

On Wednesday, Marinette saved Richard another few hours of shooting. Inspired by her presence, Adrien did a fantastic job in record time and earned just enough free time to take Marinette out to Central Park. Since both of them were wearing disguises, the pair managed to avoid unnecessary attention and spent an evening quietly strolling along the lesser known paths of the park. They talked about the past, remembering the good times, and discussed their plans for the future. Marinette admitted to wanting to put her own spin on Gabriel's style for a while now. After hearing her ideas, Adrien thought she should've done that a long time ago.

"Father loves this kind of stuff," he beamed. "You're brilliant, Marinette. I guarantee, he'll give you your own line if he sees these ideas."

"You think so?"

"I know so!"

"Alright. I might as well try it. What about you?"

"Hm, well, for me there'll be no more catwalks that's for sure. The December show will be my last one. Maybe some random photoshoots for fun in the future, but I'll be moving towards managing the business side of Gabriel."

"Getting too old for the pictures?" she teased. "Don't worry, Chaton, you'll always be handsome for me."

"Thank you, my Lady." Adrien chuckled and winked at her. "I'm glad to know the most gorgeous woman on this planet thinks I'm handsome."

Marinette laughed. "You do know you are an incorrigible dork, right?"

"I don't think you mind, though."

"I don't."

"Then I don't care," Adrien smiled and lifted her hand for inner wrist kiss. "Love you, Mari."

"Love you too, Chaton."

He didn't let her hand go once until they got into his car to go home, and even then, Adrien reached for it as often as he could, finishing the day holding Marinette in his arms. She loved every moment of it.

Thursday was spent almost identically to her previous day at Gabriel's office, the only difference being Marinette staying awake until the very end. Adrien managed to finish his work a little earlier and was pleasantly surprised by a goodbye party his coworkers organized. They got home late, not even bothering to take two separate cars because even if the paparazzi were to camp at Adrien's place or his office doorsteps, the darkness and the disguise hid Marinette's identity quite well. Still, the fact that her name hadn't made it into the papers yet was astonishing. Though, they did go to extremes to protect her. There were even rumours floating around about how harshly Richard himself dealt with the person who'd leaked her pictures after personally tracking them down.

"He's vicious," Marinette noted when Adrien had confirmed that someone did turn up at his office to beg for forgiveness.

"Only when someone wrongs the people he loves," Adrien shrugged. "Otherwise, he's an old softie in disguise."

On Friday they slept in, and then spend the afternoon strolling along the streets scattered with multitudes of little shops and vendors, buying presents for friends and family. It was a bit trickier to stay undetected in a highly populated area in daylight, so Marinette changed her wig to long blonde hair while Adrien "forgot" to shave and wore a black hair wig of his own. He added a hat, and both wore sunglasses.

"I've never had so much fun," Adrien kept whispering from time to time. "I feel like a kid again."

"And a very handsome one at that," Marinette said, brushing his jawline with her fingers. "I think I like that stubble look on you. Do that often once we're home."

"Absolutely," he purred. "What about a beard? I once grew it out and let me tell you - rocked it too."

Marinette laughed. "I don't think I'm there yet, but we'll see. Let's start with a random stubble for now."

"As my Lady wishes," Adrien bowed his head and pulled her towards a hot dog stand on the side of the walkway. He swore she'd love those.

Friday's visit to the François family in the evening of that day, however, was the event that Marinette considered the most interesting of the whole trip. She'd never expected it to be more than a farewell party from Adrien's closest friends in NYC. It turned out to be an insight into the character of Adrien Agreste of six years after.

They arrived a few minutes before the appointed time.

"Everything will be alright." Adrien squeezed Marinette's hand reassuringly. "They might be a bit unconventional, but they're really cool. You'll like them. I promise."

"I'm sure I will-" Marinette didn't finish the sentence when the door was swung open and the pair was pulled inside by the host.

"Bonsoir, bonsoir, my dears!" Richard greeted them with a broad smile as the other members of the family eagerly encircled Marinette. He briefly introduced everyone: his wife Lucia, their children Sofia and Edward with their spouses Peter and Megan, as well as their four grandchildren: twin five-years-old boys, a toddler girl and a four-month-old baby Antoine.

A bit overwhelmed by all of the commotions around her, Marinette could do little but smile and greet everyone while focusing on Adrien's arm around her waist... at least, until even that anchor was taken away by Lucia dragging Adrien into the kitchen a few minutes later.

"You are so much better with Bolognese, Adrien," Lucia practically pleaded. "I am really sorry but, please, do me a favour and finish the damn sauce. Last time, I promise."

"Alright, alright." Adrien chuckled and turned to Marinette, to see if she wanted to go with him since most already dispersed back into the apartment.

"She'll stay with me, won't you?" Sofia rushed to interfere, looping her arm around Marinette's. "I didn't gather a whole bunch of stories about you for nothing, Agreste. I simply must share. She has to know just what kind of person she's gotten herself involved with."

"I'm pretty sure she knows me," Adrien retorted.

"Oh, but does she know what you've been up to all these years in NYC?" Sofia wiggled her eyebrows. "Shoo, Agreste. Let the women gossip about their men."

Adrien seemed to hesitate and, intrigued by Sofia's proposal, Marinette assured that she would be fine waiting for him with Sofia.

"Okay," Adrien smiled. "I'll be quick and—" he glared at the other girl, "—do not embarrass me, Sofia."

The girl puffed. "Please, with what? No offence, Agreste, but you're one of the most boring people I've ever met. Can you believe—" she turned to Marinette, "—he lived in the city that never sleeps and still managed to spend all of his time at work or home? Boring! Bland and tedious."

"Don't believe her, Marinette," Adrien pouted. "I did tons of fun stuff."

"Sure, you did," Sofia deadpanned. "Like learning to cook with Mama who spent more time teaching you than her own daughter. So much fun."

"My daughter hates cooking," Lucia shouted from the kitchen. "And this nice, young man was starving and willing to learn. Don't blame me for your own choices!"

"I didn't!" Sofia retorted. "Just pointing out that Adrien had lots of fun here. Also, oh my gosh, Marinette, you won't believe but he used to read all the time. All those huge, boring books-"

"Those were for my school. I did get a Master's degree, you know."

Sofia shrugged. "That doesn't excuse them being lacklustre. However," she added with a smug smirk. "Even you've had your moments, Agreste, so I can't promise you anything. There might be one or two stories Marinette would love to hear."

Adrien narrowed his eyes at her. Marinette couldn't hold back a smile. So that's how it felt to have a sibling? Even if not an official one, but the thought of Adrien having had someone to care for him those years in the States was heartwarming, and these people, the whole family, seemed to love him as one of their own.

"Oh! I know!" Sofia suddenly stirred up, turning to Marinette with a wiggle of eyebrows and a sly smile on her lips. "I'll tell you about the time Dad was trying to set us up and how much Agreste was dying to get out of it. You should've seen him, Marinette. He was like a deer caught in headlights. 'I respect you, sir, and Sofia is beautiful and smart and amazing, but she like a sister to me. I could never date her.' That was hilarious."

"Please," Adrien puffed. "You wanted out even more than I did."

"Duh! You're like a brother. Like, ewww? No way. Plus, Peter and I were a thing already—" she glanced across the room at a man holding a baby, "—I just hadn't told the folks about him yet."

"They got married a year later," Adrien added. "Almost eloped, but we managed to talk her out of it."

"Edward did," Sofia laughed. "You were a picture of misery the whole time."

"I was not!"

"Yup, you were," Edward chuckled, walking closer.

"Hey, I was happy for you, guys!" Adrien pouted.

"Of course, you were happy for our little troublemaker," Edward laughed, hugging Adrien's shoulder. "No one denies that. But you were also not so successfully trying to hold back tears at her wedding."

"From happiness!"

"And every time Edward's wife had a baby?"

"That's-"

"Oh, please, Adrien," Sofia rolled her eyes. "Deny it all you want, but you wear your heart on your sleeve, you know. Yes, you were happy for us, but you were also sad and miserable and refused to tell us why."

"The most I got out of him," Edward added, "was that there was someone who he was in love with for years, but whose life he'd ruined, and now that person didn't want anything to do with him and he still loved them and couldn't move on. Though, I had to get him really, really drunk for that confession to come out."

"I hate you guys," Adrien huffed and glared at the two. "The one and only time I let you take me out to a bar-"

"Sofia! Ed! Leave the poor boy alone!" their mother shouted from the kitchen. "You're going to scare Marinette away with your nonsense. Come here, Adrien. Bring Marinette with you and leave those heathens behind." A wave of chuckles and giggles filled the room. Adrien straightened up.

"Thank you, Aunt Lucia," he shouted before offering his hand to Marinette. "Would you join me in the kitchen, my Lady? Those insensitive individuals did not deserve your company."

"Aw, come on!" Sofia whined. "We were just having fun. Leave her with us."

"Too late," Adrien pulled Marinette to himself and stuck his tongue out. "She is all mine and I don't share with bullies."

"We love you, Adrien," Sofia retorted, stepping away herself to check up on her husband who seemed to be having troubles with getting their baby to sleep. Edward got distracted by one of his kids as well, so the pair effortlessly sneaked away.

"Adrien is a nice boy, don't listen to them," Lucia mumbled under her breath as soon as they entered the kitchen. "He's kind and smart, hard-working and an amazing cook. Those tactless kids of mine just like to tease him, and he is too nice to play their games. That's their father's doing. I told Richard to stop doing that because the kids would learn it, but does he ever listen to me? Here—" she passed a bowl full of ingredients to Adrien. "If you don't mind, dear. Your Bolognese is the best and we'll retaliate by not sharing."

Adrien chuckled and headed to the stove.

"They weren't so bad," Marinette said. "I can tell they love Adrien- in their own special way. Plus, I got to learn something new about him."

"Want to learn more?" Sofia peaked through the door. "I have tons of stories left."

"Shoo, you evil child!" Lucia cried out. "Go set the table if you have nothing better to do. I'm almost done with dinner."

"I can help," Marinette offered, seeing as she wasn't going to be very useful at the kitchen with Adrien and the older woman seemingly having everything under control.

"See? She wants the stories, Mama! Come with me, girl. I'll tell you all of his secrets," Sofia quickly pulled Marinette out of the room to Lucia's discontent huffing and Adrien's laugh. Marinette giggled herself. It was chaotic. Overwhelming even, but undeniably those people cared a lot about each other and about Adrien. It could be felt in the air. She could see it in their eyes. It must have been such a contrast for Adrien to get into this family after his lonely childhood life.

The table setting didn't take long, seeing as Megan, Edward's wife, had finally managed to escape from her kids and lend them a hand. Together, they told Marinette about Adrien's life in the States, starting from the time their father dragged the depressed, lonely model into their house, and ending with him surprising them with the news of Emma and Marinette. There wasn't much in between - just a few silly NYC adventures when they practically forced Adrien out.

"He liked to stay at home when he didn't work or study," Sofia said. "We tried to get him out but the stubborn ass would usually refuse, and even if he did go out with us, he'd just sit there with that look on his face."

"I always hated it," Megan added. "He looked like a kicked puppy. There was always that sadness in his eyes, you know?"

"Especially when Dad tried to set him up those few times. Poor guy looked even more depressed after a date than before it and never went on a second one. We gave up on that pretty soon. I think he suffered through three?"

Megan shook her head. "Nope. Two. You were supposed to be the third one, remember?"

"Oh right," Sofia sighed. "Well, we're sure glad it's in the past and he has you now, Marinette," Sofia smiled and out of the blue wrapped her arms around Marinette. "Thank you so much. I know it might sound strange coming from a complete stranger, but Adrien means a lot to us, and we are very thankful you appeared in his life. He looks happy. Really happy. Genuinely so. Please, be kind to him."

"I will," Marinette whispered, holding back tears. "I'll do my best."

The rest of the evening went pretty smoothly. Adrien got free from the kitchen pretty soon but was snatched up by a horde of kids who insisted that Uncle Adrien was to play with them. As soon as he complied, the level of laughs and squeals in the house rose significantly. Marinette could hardly keep her eyes off Adrien as he wrestled and carried the kids around on his shoulders. The children loved him and he was terrific with them. No wonder he was so good with Emma; he had a lot of practice here. It explained perfectly why he was so happy and eager to be a father as well.

Then followed the loudest dinner Marinette had ever attended, yet in a fun and wholehearted way. Adrien seemed to be right at home, even if the stories about him never ended and more than one of those were told with the sole purpose to tease him. He quickly retaliated, though, telling Marinette his own tales about the people around the table, causing the whole room to erupt with laughs. By the end of the evening, Marinette, in a way, felt a little guilty taking him away from them, but they approved. Adrien was loved here and his happiness stood above their own wishes.

They left late evening and Marinette felt as much a part of their family as was Adrien. Sofia proclaimed her to be her new sister. Richard and Lucia invited them over whenever they would be on this side of the Atlantic. Edward shook Adrien's hand and wished him well as an older brother would. Everyone hugged, and from the corner of her eye, Marinette noticed lingering tears in more than one pair of eyes.

"I see you weren't as lonely as you've told me," Marinette teased him as soon as they left. "They're great people, Adrien. I really enjoyed this evening."

"They are awesome," Adrien replied with a bittersweet smile on his face. "But... over the years… looking at them- it was just- you know when you see your friends- family almost," he corrected. "When you see them fall in love, date, get engaged, get married, when you hold their newborns in your hands and help them choose the right name, when you help cook and share those amazing evening together… all while knowing that you most likely will never get to experience that with the woman you love… that you perhaps will never have a family of your own… That—" he lightly squeezed Marinette's hand, not making eye contact, "—that was the lonely and miserable part."

"I'm sorry," Marinette whispered and stopping, wrapped her arms around him.

"I'm sorry too," Adrien whispered back, returning the embrace. "I can imagine it wasn't any easier for you."

"I had Emma. And my parents. I had Alya, and Nino. I was still back home with lots of friends and even your father. He helped us too. You were all alone over here in a foreign country. And while Richard and his family are amazing — and I'm so, so glad they took you in — but if I understand correctly, they were your only friends here?"

Adrien nodded silently.

"I'm so sorry, Adrien," Marinette whispered burying her face into his chest. "All because of me. Me and my stupid mistake."

"I thought we agreed that it was my mistake too."

"But-"

"No 'buts' Marinette. I'm not lonely anymore. I have you and Emma. We have each other. That's all that matters."

"No, it's not," Marinette protested, pulling away and catching his gaze. "It's been years, Adrien. Because of me-"

"Because of you," Adrien stopped her speech, gently placing a finger to her lips. "I'm not lonely anymore. I have a family now and feel like the luckiest man alive. Because of what had happened we've become people we're now. We've learned; we've matured. We've both messed up, Marinette. Not just you or me. We both did, and there is nothing we can do about it now." A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he continued to gaze upon her. "We're together and happy now. We know what we should work on, so let's leave the past in the past and focus on the future. Okay?"

Marinette's eyes filled with tears. Was there a limit to how much Adrien loved her? She didn't know, but when he leaned closer and put his forehead to hers her heart fluttered.

"I love you," Adrien whispered. "And I don't want you blaming yourself for the rest of your life for something we both did."

"I love you too, Adrien," she barely breathed out, loud enough only for his ears. "With all my heart."

"That's all that matters," Adrien smiled at her and let his lips brushed against hers in a gentle touch. "Let's go home," he added. "I need to show you just how much I love you."

"Same," Marinette replied quietly.

Saturday morning Marinette met with a smile on her lips. There wasn't much planned for today: some last-minute packing, maybe a lunch out somewhere nearby and perhaps another walk at Central Park. The evening was reserved for a movie, cuddles and early bedtime since their plane was leaving first thing Sunday morning. So, not rushing to open her eyes, Marinette cuddled closer to Adrien, still flying somewhere between reality and dreamland as she relished in the warmth of being close. In response, Adrien wrapped his arms around her from behind, pulling her closer.

This. This felt nice. Marinette hummed satisfactory under her breath. This felt like something she'd really enjoy for the rest of her life. The whole last week was something she'd love to have for the rest of her life. Waking up cuddling to Adrien, spending their days in close proximity, working together, sharing their meals, relaxing in the evening watching a movie or just talking, falling asleep in his arms… It only needed Emma added in, and it would be perfect. Perfect enough for her to eagerly anticipate his promised proposal to come.

Adrien's arms suddenly tightened around her as he whispered her name. He must have awoken already, but Marinette didn't rush to turn around to wish him good morning - the way he held her right now was way too comfortable for that.

"I love you- love you so much." He tugged her closer.

"Love you too, Adrien," Marinette replied quietly, softly stroking one of his hands on her stomach.

"You are my everything, Marinette," Adrien murmured against her skin. "You and Emma- everything-"

This time she wanted to respond, but Adrien continued to whisper.

"Love you so much… Can't live without you… Marinette… I'll make you happy… I promise… Marry me…"

The breath in her chest hitched for just a moment, a smile splitting her lips. They really were meant to be. Otherwise, how could Adrien read her mind and know one of her greatest desires a few minutes after she'd wished for it?

"Marinette," Adrien murmured against her bare skin, his voice raspy and deep. "My Lady… My Princess… I love you..."

"I love you too," Marinette finally replied, swirling around, "Of course, I'll marry you, Chaton, you silly kitty. There is nothing I want more right now than this."

With that, she pulled Adrien to herself and kissed him. Kissed him slowly and tenderly, lingering in the sweetness of his lips, lavishing in the warmth of his embrace.

She pulled away a few moments later to meet Adrien's bewildered eyes, as he blinked before letting a sleepy smile stretch on his lips. Ignoring his dumbfounded expression, Marinette leaned in again for another kiss. This time he responded.

"Didn't know the cuddling ceremony was replaced by a kissing one," Adrien purred once they parted. "Not complaining, though. I might even prefer this one. You have the best ideas, Princess."

"Well, isn't it what you do after you get proposed to?" Marinette said, her eyes half-lidded and dreamy. "You kiss your fiancée."

Adrien pulled back. "I proposed to you?"

"Yup." Marinette's grin stretched wider. "You did."

He blinked. "When?"

"Just now?"

A silent whimper escaped Adrien's lips as he stared back at her in disbelief. After a short while, he said barely audible. "Marinette, I woke up being kissed. I don't remember anything before that."

They stared at each other in silence before Marinette gave in, snorted and erupted with laughter. "Really?"

"Yes," Adrien whined, closing his eyes.

"You've missed your own proposal?" Marinette continued to giggle.

"That's not funny, Princess." He flopped back on the bed, a sad puppy look on his face. "Weeks of practice down the drain."

"Awww. I almost feel sorry for you, Chaton, but I'll let you know that you were very cuddly and sweet. A swoon-worthy proposal for sure. I couldn't refuse you even if I wanted to."

Adrien chuckled. Raising himself over her on one elbow, he tucked away some stray hairs behind her ear with his other hand. "Then maybe, you'll allow me to ask you again? It would've been nice to remember you saying Yes to me."

"Sure." Marinette nodded. "But I'll agree again only if you can beat the Sleep Adrien's proposal."

"I see. So, I've got my work cut out for me?"

"Undeniably."

"Well then—" still raised on one elbow he leaned down and nuzzled her jaw, whispering in her ear. "Marinette Dupain-Cheng, I love you. Will you marry me?"

"That's it?" she chuckled when Adrien refrained from adding anything else. "No big words and promises to beat your rival?"

"I'm sure Sleep Adrien already said all the words and promised you everything," Adrien said, his voice husky as he traced the line of her jaw with his fingers, following the trail with his eyes. "But in the weeks that I've spent practicing my proposal speech, I've noticed that the simpler words are, the more effective and sincerer they are as well."

"I suppose," Marinette replied with a smile, placing her hand atop of his. "But you'll need something extra to top Sleep Adrien because let me tell you - he was fantastic."

"Of course, my Lady," Adrien replied bringing her hand to his lips. "I'm sure he was great telling you things, but did he do something like this?" He let his lips brush against the inside of her wrist.

Marinette shook her hand.

"How about this?" Leaning down, Adrien peppered the curve of her jaw with tender butterfly kisses before moving on to her neck, gently sucking at her exposed skin.

Closing her eyes, Marinette let a sigh out. "No."

"And this?" Adrien nibbled at her earlobe. "I'm sure Sleep Adrien was big on words, but I offer you my actions. So, what will you say, Marinette? Will you marry me?"

"Tempting," Marinette whispered, locking her gaze on him. "You drive a hard deal, Chaton."

The corner of his lips curved as Adrien's eyes fell to her lips. Watching them for a short while, he caught her eyes again and added. "I have a lot more to offer to Mme Adrien Agreste, though. Would you like to become her, Marinette?"

"Yes," Marinette whispered, tugging him closer. "And very much so."

"Excellent," Adrien smiled and capture her lips with his.

It had been well over a year since his son came back from the States. Sixteen months since Adrien had discovered he was a father and cleared all of the misunderstandings not only between Marinette and himself but between them as well. About fourteen months, Gabriel would guess, since the duo came back engaged from NYC - of no surprise to anyone and just as he'd predicted. Exactly a year since their wedding. Unnecessary delay where Gabriel's opinion was considered, but Adrien and Marinette had insisted on enjoying the engagement stage for at least a few months, which, to be fair, that did give him the time to create a custom wedding dress for Marinette and allowed their friends to arrange some time off work to attend their tropical wedding gateway. Sunset beach ceremony wasn't what he personally would've chosen, but Emma was happy and so was Gabriel. In the end, his preferences aside, the fact that Marinette had decided to take Adrien's last name and change Emma's in the process as well, was most pleasing of all.

Emma Agreste sounded perfect.

Emma Agreste had too much of a hold on his heart, and he acknowledged it without shame. Even now, as Gabriel carefully inspected her drawings, he couldn't hold back a smile. Emma clearly inherited his fantastic fashion sense.

"Father?" Adrien's voice split the silence of the room. Gabriel lifted his head, confused as for why he hadn't heard the door opening.

"Oh, you are back. I assume the date went well?"

"Yes, it was amazing," Adrien smiled, pulling Marinette into the office. "Where's Emma?"

"She went to her room ten minutes ago."

"You mean my old room?" Adrien teased. "I still can't believe you removed my zip line because it suddenly isn't safe anymore."

"We already discussed it, Adrien," Gabriel replied nonchalantly. "Whoever visits more gets the room. Emma wins by a long run and if you want that zip line so badly, install it in your own house and stop bothering me."

"I've been robbed," Adrien mock pouted. "Stripped of the place I've spent most of life in."

Gabriel sighed. Marinette giggled.

"We appreciate it, M Agreste," she said, putting a hand on Adrien's shoulder. "And Emma loves it. She's still ecstatic about the princess treehouse and the royal carriage bed you put in for her. Even started bugging Adrien to buy her a similar one for her room at home."

"I see," Gabriel smirked in satisfaction, looking at Adrien. "So, remodelling the room to suit her particular tastes wasn't that unnecessary after all."

"My climbing wall is still her favourite feature, though," Adrien countered. "You can't deny that."

Gabriel sighed. "I suppose I can't. She is your daughter after all."

"She is," Adrien grinned proudly. "And as unbelievable as it sounds, she takes a lot after me."

"Maybe, but she undoubtedly inherited her mother's fashion talent," Gabriel added. "You can't deny that."

"I suppose I can't," Adrien chuckled and looked at Marinette. "And I don't mind in the slightest."

"Speaking of which," Gabriel leaned back into his chair and looked at Marinette. "Would you to bring her to the office next week? I want to start with that line I promised her. She has some interesting ideas already."

"Wait." Adrien frowned. "I thought co-creating a line with Emma was a joke."

"I don't joke about such matters," Gabriel replied. "Emma has a talent, and she is at the age when her imagination has no bounds. I want to explore that. She has a bright future if we nurture her from early on."

Adrien glanced at Marinette. "We'll discuss it over the dinner on Friday. We need to consider everything before we agree or decline anything."

"Fair enough." Gabriel nodded. "Now, should I call for Emma? It's getting close to her bedtime, and you still need to get home."

Adrien suddenly grinned and grabbed Marinette's hand. "Not yet. First, we wanted to tell you some exciting news-"

"Oh. Did Marinette finally tell you she is pregnant?" Gabriel cut in, his face calm as he watched Marinette's eyes widen and Adrien's jaw drop to the floor.

"Wha- But- How? How do you know?"

The man let out an amused chuckle. "Can you guess what is one of the perks of being your boss, Marinette?"

The woman shook her head.

"I get to hear all the rumours about you early on," he continued. "You are an Agreste now, Marinette, and people pay special attention to everything you do. When they notice stuff, they gossip, and every gossip about any member of my family makes its way to my office sooner or later. I suspected a pregnancy a few weeks ago when you were spotted feeling sick in the bathroom three days in a row, constantly seemed tired for a while and started consuming an impressive number of salty snacks."

Adrien chuckled to himself and looked at Marinette.

"Then, of course, your father called me a week ago because he couldn't congratulate Adrien yet, but he was eager to share the news with at least someone."

"You father knew?" Adrien turned to Marinette.

"And Maman," Marinette said apologetically. "She noticed the symptoms when I was over a few weeks ago and asked me. I couldn't lie, but they promised not to tell anyone until I surprised you."

"Unbelievable," Adrien pouted. "Why am I always the last one to find out things in this family?"

"You should've been the first one to notice something was up," Gabriel quirked an eyebrow. "Seeing how she is your wife and you live in the same house, and you—" he addressed Marinette with a stern look, "—you should've made it short days if you weren't feeling well. We don't want my grandchild to be born prematurely."

"That's why you kept sending me home early?" Marinette smiled. "Thank you. That was very thoughtful and very much appreciated."

"Left behind," Adrien whined and dramatically plopped on a chair. "Again. By my own father and my beloved wife. How could this happen to me?"

"Awww." Marinette smiled, lightly ruffling Adrien's hair. "I'm sorry. I just wanted to tell you in a special way and our anniversary seemed like the perfect day to do so, but here—" she leaned over and placed a kiss on his cheek. "Feeling better?

"A little," Adrien pouted. "One more?"

"Don't be such a drama queen, Adrien," Gabriel huffed, standing up. "I'll go get Emma."

"You won't call Nathalie to bring her as usual?" Adrien asked.

"It seems you two need a few minutes alone," Gabriel said with a straight face, heading for the door. "We'll be back in a few minutes, settle everything by then."

He closed the door to the pair's stifled laughs and Adrien's unmistakable "Come here, Princess" and walked up the stairs. Soon Gabriel stood in front of Adrien's former bedroom. A soft knock on the door gave him no response. He tried again and entered the room, calling out his granddaughter's name. The room looked empty, the lights dimmed and no one answered him no matter how many times he called. Just for a moment, his mind stirred with worry, but then his eyes fell on a sleeping girl in the extravagant treehouse he made for her. Snoozing peacefully amongst the countless pillows and plushies, she was hugging a Chat Noir doll Marinette had made for her, swaddled in a ladybug-themed blanket Adrien had insisted was a must in this room.

Gabriel smiled. Emma was a surprise. For her mother. For her father. For him. Unexpected and bewildering. She looked mind-blowingly similar to his late wife, but that wasn't the most surprising thing about her. How much she'd accomplished in her seven years was astonishing. She inspired him every day and brought smiles to everyone around her. She'd gotten her parents together, something they were too childish to do themselves. She'd managed to melt his heart and prompted a reconciliation between him and his long-estranged son, something that just a little over a year ago Gabriel had never thought it possible. That was more than most people accomplish in a lifetime. Unexpected? Surprising? Not really. She was an Agreste, after all. Emma Agreste to be precise.

That's it, guys. I hope you've enjoyed this ride as much as I did. I hope Unexpected Surprise was as special to you as it was to me. I'm very thankful to my betas KryallaOrchid and EdenDaphne for helping me to polish this gem. Thank you so much, guys! Without you, this story would never be as amazing as it is now.

Also, I'll be posting a separate Unexpected Surprise bonus story in a week where you'll get your questions about kwamis answered and be able to glimpse the future of the Adrien and Marinette's family. Hope you'll love it just as much as the main story. 3