To Purr The Pain Away

To Make Amends

Felix chugged his fifth monster of the day, his body lagging as he trudged up the stairs into school. He had spent the past few nights at Chloe's hotel, the Marinette Team working hard to get the finishing touches finalized. The fall of Lila was quickly approaching, and he was beyond anxious.

He stopped at the top of the stairs and turned around, eyes scanning the crowd below. Marinette would be attending school today, the doctors deeming her fit enough to return to class so long as someone kept watch over her. He smiled as he saw his cousin round the corner, a wheelchair bound Marinette waving excitedly at him. He returned the wave and gave a nod to his cousin. Both blonds frowned as they realized the school had no wheelchair ramp, another note to add to the growing list of complaints.

Nino jogged down the steps and whispered something to Adrien, the blond smirking down at the girl in his charge. Without a word, he scooped her out of the chair and into his arms, her own reflexively wrapping around his neck as he cradled her. She gave him a childish glare and swatted his chest as Nino hoisted her chair up the stairs, the duo not far behind.

"You dumb cat! I could have walked!"

Adrien stuck his tongue out at her, his eyes dancing in mischief. "Nuh uh. Doctor's orders. No walking for the princess for a couple more days." Marinette huffed but relented, enjoying the feel of her boyfriend's arms around her. Alot had changed over the last few days. Adrien had asked her to be his girlfriend, which she happily accepted. His father, much to her surprise, had taken an interest in her and invited her over for a pleasant dinner. Had that not shocked her enough, she would have died when he offered her legal help as Adrien spilled the beans on the brunette terror. Gabriel had been appalled at the actions against his son and even more so to his girlfriend and aspiring designer.

The black bracelet sent her into shock.

Nino, for his credit, had kept everyone in check as they fussed over her wellbeing. She was happy to have him but couldn't help the guilt that crept up as she remembered what it had cost him. He had assured her that it was for the best, him not wanting to be stuck to someone so stubborn. She watched as he carried her chair up the steps and ignoring the looks being sent their way.

They passed a quiet Alya, her eyes locked on Nino as he passed her as though she didn't exist. Marinette couldn't help feeling bad for the girl, yet the pain quickly outweighed that. Adrien carried her past Alya, brown eyes meeting her blue. She opened her mouth to speak but was interrupted as Sabrina ran up to her with Chloe, the group fussing as they set her back into her chair. Marinette chuckled softly and batted away the fussing hands.

"I'm not a frail doll you guys!"

Felix ruffled her hair and grinned down at her, one hand taking the right of her wheelchair. "Yes princess we know, you are a strong and independent woman. However, you can't walk five feet without doubling over. So just accept the help or I won't give you this." Her eyes met the steaming cup in his hand, her inner caffeine addict showing.

"Oh my god, is that?"

He handed over the cup, a knowing smile and wink sent her way. "Tall dark roast, two pumps of hazelnut syrup, three pumps of chocolate and a splash of vanilla. An utter disgrace to coffee. Just like you like it." She squealed in excitement and put it to her lips, sighing in bliss as the hot liquid met her throat. God she loved her boys. They wheeled her through the halls, stopping to accept well wishes and get well soon cards from other classes.

The entry into class was a spectacle, their classmates running to greet her and wish her well. Adrien carried her up to her seat, Felix joining on her other side to help steady her. Chloe and Sabrina sat in front of them and Nino just to their left. A protective force should anyone come close.