An Unwelcome Assignment

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Chapter 1: An Unwelcome Assignment

Felix Graham de Vanily moved through Vanguard Operations Headquarters as if he owned the place. Sharp green eyes scanned the hall, noting every exit, every potential hiding place. His confidence was woven into every precise step he took, his chiseled features set in an expression of quiet authority, softened only by the faint smirk that lingered whenever someone tried to match his gaze. Felix was mysterious, rarely offering more than necessary about himself, and even fewer glimpses into his thoughts. The rest of the agency had long since learned that getting close to Felix was impossible—unless you were Marinette Dupain-Cheng.

And even she wasn't close. Not really.

She stood outside the Director's office, leaning against the wall in casual elegance. Her midnight-black hair framed her face, with a single, effortless wave spilling over her shoulder. Felix glanced her way, green eyes narrowing as he watched her, trying to decipher whatever she was doing with her phone. It was something distracting enough that she didn't notice him until he was only a few paces away. When she looked up, a subtle smirk curled her lips, a smile that dared him to come closer.

"Well, if it isn't the agency's star agent," Marinette purred, the mock admiration in her voice barely concealing a note of challenge. "How lucky I am to bask in your glow, Felix."

He raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening in response. "Careful, Marinette. I wouldn't want you to get lost in it."

She rolled her eyes, feigning disinterest. "Right. Because an inflated ego is something I've never seen before."

Felix's posture remained calm and composed, but his eyes were alight with the silent promise of a comeback, one he'd save for later, if only to get under her skin. Marinette was every bit his equal in skill and intellect, but she was sly, clever in ways he often found irritating—and, annoyingly enough, admirable. She had a knack for seduction as a weapon, charming her way past obstacles he'd tackle head-on. It drove him insane—especially when it worked.

Before they could exchange another jab, Director Boucher's voice came from inside his office, "Agents Graham de Vanily and Dupain-Cheng, come in."

They shot each other a last, wary look before entering.

Director Boucher stood behind his desk, his stern expression betraying no hint of the amusement the rest of the agency felt watching Felix and Marinette's relentless rivalry. "Thank you both for coming," he said, motioning for them to sit. "I'll keep this brief. You're here because of Hawkmoth."

Both agents straightened at the mention of the name. Gabriel Agreste—codenamed Hawkmoth—was Europe's most dangerous black-market dealer. Arms, intel, priceless artifacts; if it was valuable, he controlled it. Felix kept his expression neutral, though his pulse quickened at the challenge. Hawkmoth's network was elusive, almost impenetrable.

"Our intel suggests that he's hosting an extended gala on his private island," Director Boucher continued. "It's invitation-only, with some of the wealthiest and most corrupt individuals in the world attending. It's also where he plans to orchestrate his next major weapons deal."

Marinette leaned forward slightly, her bluebell eyes glinting with interest. "And you want us to go undercover?"

Boucher nodded. "Exactly. You'll need to pose as one of these elite couples. The only way in is as wealthy, glamorous partners."

Felix's smirk returned, his gaze flicking to Marinette. "I take it I'll be the one with the wealth and charm?"

Marinette raised an eyebrow, her lips parting into a slow, mocking smile. "Right. I'll play the 'trophy wife'—and we can all pretend you're interesting enough to keep my attention."

Felix chuckled softly, an easy but slightly condescending sound that sent heat flaring in her cheeks. "As if you could handle a husband like me, Marinette. The charade might be too much for you."

Director Boucher cut in, his tone dry and unamused. "For both your sakes, I suggest you drop the attitude. You'll be posing as Mr. and Mrs. Duval. And this cover is to be maintained around the clock. You'll share a suite, work together closely, and... well, act like you're in love."

Marinette's expression soured, though she quickly replaced it with a mischievous smile, shifting her gaze back to Felix. "You don't say. I wonder if Felix's 'charm' will be up for the task."

Felix leaned back in his chair, arms folded, his eyes glinting. "You might be surprised, Marinette. I can be quiteconvincing."

Director Boucher cleared his throat, snapping them back to attention. "You'll leave tomorrow evening, and you'll receive cover identities before then. Your agency codenames for this mission are Cat Noir and Ladybug. They'll be used exclusively over encrypted channels. Remember, this mission requires you to focus on Hawkmoth, not on your personal issues with each other."

Felix and Marinette exchanged a final, unreadable look. As much as they disliked each other, they both took their roles seriously.

"When do we get our backstories?" Marinette asked, her tone now professional.

"You'll find the information in the files waiting for you in your quarters. Study them tonight. I expect full commitment to these identities. And remember—absolute professionalism is required from both of you," Boucher said, his gaze hardening. "The stakes are high, and Hawkmoth is ruthless. Don't let your rivalry interfere with the mission."

With a final nod, the director dismissed them, and they left the office together in silence, the electric tension between them sharper than ever.

As they stepped into the hallway, Marinette let out a low, dry laugh. "Playing happy couple. I hope you've been practicing your charming husband routine, Felix. You're going to need it."

He stopped, turned to her, his face infuriatingly calm, though his eyes flashed with barely hidden challenge. "I think I'll manage, darling. I'm far better at this sort of thing than you give me credit for."

She smirked, running a finger along his shoulder, barely touching him as she let her gaze drop to his chest before sliding back up to meet his eyes. "Don't let it go to your head, husband."

Felix held her gaze, unfazed, his tone smooth and low. "Keep your tricks ready, wife. You'll need all the charm you can muster to stay on my level."

Marinette's smile widened slightly, her eyes glinting with wicked amusement. "Oh, Felix, you have no idea who you're dealing with."

They parted ways, each of them feeling that dangerous, undeniable thrill that their rivalry often brought out. Alone in her quarters, Marinette pulled up her file, scanning her new cover identity. Mrs. Duval, the alluring and intelligent wife of a wealthy entrepreneur, skilled in charm and wit. She couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement at the thought of Felix's reactions to the role she was about to play.

Felix, back in his own quarters, stared at his file with an unreadable expression, his mind already working through the scenarios they'd face. He knew exactly what kind of game Marinette would play, how she'd use her seductive charm to distract him, just as she always had. But he was ready for her. The mystery he kept around himself, his own way of shutting people out, was something no one—not even Marinette—had been able to break through.

This time would be no different. Or so he told himself.

But as he turned the pages of the file, glancing at the photo of Marinette that was clipped to the top, he felt an uninvited flicker of curiosity. Despite their constant clashes, there was something undeniably captivating about her—the sly smile, the glint in her eyes, the way she always seemed one step ahead. This mission would test them both in ways he hadn't anticipated.

Neither one of them was prepared for the depth of the challenge they were about to face—or the allure of the partnership they'd been forced into.

Hey guys! Author here! So this fanfic is gonna be pretty long, so hold on tight! Thanks so much for reading! If there are any mistakes, please let me know. TSM!

ILY!

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