A Winter's Tale

Chapter 2- Alya's Plan

 Frustration! That was the best word to describe what Adrien was feeling at the moment. Mrs. Bustier just had to torture him by canceling the lessons and choosing to speak about Christmas plans instead. Way to slap him in the face. That was definitely the most painful way to remind him that his father was the only person who hated spending the holidays with his only son or any other day, really.

The torture grew the more his classmates talked about their plans. Every time a classmate stood up to speak about their family plans and traditions, Adrien had to fight back the tears. Every sentence spoken was a clear reminder of what he would never have. Adrien couldn't go Christmas shopping with his mother or was able to decorate his house for Christmas. He didn't even remember how to decorate a tree. He definitely wouldn't have family bonding time or learn how to bake cookies, and he surely would never get to play Christmas fish bowl, whatever that was. All Adrien had was a cold father with no desire to celebrate the holidays with him. Just Great!

But the icing on the cake happened earlier when he learned his best friend was traveling. Even though Adrien knew Nino and Alya had plans, he never imagined it would be so far away. Canada, to be exact. So, him staying with Nino was out of the question. He thought of asking Ivan and Max but soon learned they were also traveling. The only one he knew would be staying in Paris was Chloe and let's face it, the thought of Christmas with Chloe sent a creepy shiver down his spine.

"Marinette, what about you?" Mrs. Bustier asked. 'Great,' Adrien thought to himself. 'Now I have to hear how Marinette won't be in Paris, and I won't be able to see her in weeks. Way to kick me in the guts, Mrs. Bustier," he thought, not really realizing what he had just thought.

"Marinette?" Mrs. Bustier called out again, not that Marinette noticed as she had been too busy designing a new winter coat for her crush. Well, if she ever got the guts to actually give it to him.

"Marinette!" The teacher called out again. Adrien turned to face the bluenette after noticing his classmate had yet to speak. Adrien smiled as he noticed the bluenette was completely focused on her design. As he gazed at her, the blonde bit his lower lip. She was the most talented girl he knew, and how adorable did she look with her tongue protruding as she concentrated on her drawing?

He wanted to say something to earn her attention. He really did. Yet, he couldn't. He couldn't take his eyes off her. He didn't want to interrupt her.

"Ms. Dupain Cheng, are you with us?" Mrs. Bustier called out once more. Adrien finally reacted after regaining his composure. The blonde then placed his hand on top of hers, causing her pencil to come to a halt.

Adrien couldn't explain it, but the moment their hands touched, he felt a surge of electricity run through his arms. Almost instantly, bluebell eyes met emerald green eyes, and his world came to a halt. Adrien had no idea what had just occurred, but it felt right. That is until Marinette quickly removed her hand, embarrassed.

Her reaction drew a frown from the model. Did he really make her feel that bad? Did she notice the spark? That wasn't the case. It was almost as if she didn't want him to touch her at all. Why did she always treat him this way? They were supposed to be friends. Were they not? Where did he go wrong? Why was she only acting like this towards him? Adrien sighed and circled back. He hated admitting it, but her reaction hurt him. It was excruciatingly painful.

"Thank you, Adrien," Mrs. Bustier spoke. The blonde looked at his teacher, giving her a half smile and looking down at his desk, attempting to hide the hurt he still felt.

"Glad Adrien was able to bring you back, Marinette," Mrs. Bustier called out, making the entire class burst out in laughter. At least, everyone but Adrien, who was still in his feelings.