The adventures of Ladybug and Chat Noir (A rewrite)

Curiously Sweet

The moment of truth had arrived. Marinette's heart pounded with a mix of excitement and dread. She meticulously double-checked every detail, mentally rehearsing every possible outcome. Yet, outwardly, she remained composed. Her posture was straight, but not rigid. She exuded an aura of calm elegance, a glaring contrast to the storm raging within her mind. She looked over to Chloe's design one last time. It was big and bold. The design leaned on the feminine type of derby hats. It had a big rose on the side, made out of fabric. Black lace acted as the petals, while a golden net created a seamless accent. The rose has a small black and gold bead in the center. Although dark, it is sparkling like stars in the night sky.

"Marinette Dupain-Cheng? You're on in five." a stage manager directed her.

Marinette steadied herself with a deep breath, her fingers tightening around the box in her hands. As she stepped onto the stage, Alya, Nino, and Rose followed close behind. With a practiced ease, she set the box on the podium and approached the microphone. Her gaze landed on Gabriel Agreste, his figure bathed in the spotlight. Beside him stood the familiar blonde, a source of both irritation and intrigue. But amongst everyone in the crowd, she only hoped to make her parents proud. As her eyes landed on them, her tension eased.

With a final flick of the switch, she stepped into the spotlight. "Our esteemed guests," she began, her voice steady, "today, I present to you the most functional and fashionable derby you've ever seen." She opened the collapsible box in order to reveal, "A rich, deep brown derby with straw materials that give it a textured, almost woven appearance." She began to explain, " A wide, navy blue ribbon encircles the base of the crown, adding a seamless accent. Keeping the colors natural." She turns the hat slightly to show, "The interior of the hat features a vibrant purple and pink patterned lining, visible around the brim." She held the hat up and showcased her favorite part. "And finally, a small, elegant pin adorned with feathers is attached to the front of the hat. The feathers are in various shades of brown and white, adding a touch of whimsy and texture. Courtesy of the lovely pigeons that watched over me yesterday."

Adrien sneezed, but Marinette continued on. "I aimed to make a derby that fit most any style. To be versatile enough to be both Chic and minimalistic. A timeless piece for anyone and everyone. And that's why–" Three spotlights shone upon Nino, Alya, and Rose. "I've gathered 3 of my friends, with completely different styles, to showcase just how versatile this hat can be." Marinette carefully picked up the hat and placed it on Nino's head.

Nino wore green parachute pants with a beige shirt and a black bomber jacket with green lining. "Usually, you would think the hip hop style would never be paired with something as classy as the derby, and yet it seamlessly blends into the outfit due to the relaxed nature of the hat." Following Marinette's direction, Nino struck a pose, swept off his derby with a bow, and presented it to her.

"Next up, even when gathering information and looking for clues, this reporter can look inconspicuous and sophisticated." Marinette swiftly put the hat on Alya, who was wearing brown utility boots with black leather pants, a white shirt, and a brown leather jacket. Alya struck a dramatic pose, her head inclined downward, evoking the image of a stoic cowboy.

"And finally," Rose stepped forward, wearing an overall jean dress with a pink sweatshirt, white leg warmers and brown leather platforms, "Even at your pink tea parties is it a perfectly sophisticated derby to wear." Rose twirled before bowing and giving Marinette the hat.

Marinette takes a deep breath as she puts it on, "They say derbies are outdated, but anything can come back with a little love and care." She takes a final bow as the crowd claps.

"I have a question Ms. Dupain-cheng," A statement that doesn't give Marinette much time to answer, "The contest was about a derby hat. And yet you presented three models. Did you think your design couldn't stand out on its own?" Gabriel's cold gaze awaited her answer.