Emotional Support [Complete]

S1 E35: The Anniversary (Pt. 2)

Marinette managed to finish the majority of her homework at school so that she could quickly finish the rest at home.

"Mom, Papa, can I take my shift now instead of 4:30?"

Sabine placed her tray of freshly baked croissants on the counter. "Sure, why?"

"I want to get to the Agrestes ASAP," Marinette explained. "It's three years today that Emile disappeared. Adrien broke down at school. Gabriel could hardly speak over the phone. And, I honestly think a few hugs would do them good."

Tom frowned. "Oh, send them our condolences."

Marinette smiled. "I will."

"Why don't you go see them now, dear?" Sabine suggested, packing a brown bag with pastries and cookies. "You can bring them goodies!"

"Thank you!" 

Marinette accepted the bag and kissed each her parents' cheeks as went on her way.

***

Adrien had just gotten home, realizing he might not see Marinette for a few hours, and felt himself fall back into a state of devastating loneliness. He thought that he should try with his father once more, so he entered the atelier to find him standing faced the painting of his mother.

"Father, I—"

"I told you I'm not to be bothered today."

Adrien frowned. "Father, please. It's a sad day. Aren't you sad?"

"Of course. She was my wife."

"And she was my mother," Adrien teared up. "I miss her so much. We both do. Why shouldn't we be together?"

"I'd rather be alone."

"What about when Marinette comes?" Adrien asked. "Will you join us this once, please?"

"I'd rather not," Gabriel responded bluntly. "I will see Marinette and then she will spend the rest of the night with you."

"Why is it that you would rather spend your time with her? And accept comfort from her? Over your own son!" Adrien slipped a tear. "I'm... I'm starting to believe you would have preferred a daughter. You've shown more affection to Marinette in a week than me in three years! What is wrong with you?"

"Hold your tongue!" Gabriel snapped, clearly angered. "Go to you're room. You've had enough emotions for today."

Adrien chocked, "Gosh, you're the worst! I wish I had mom instead!"

The boy ran to his bedroom and Gabriel, who'd just processed the exchange, whipped around to where his son had just left. Unbeknownst to Adrien, Gabriel only wanted him to leave to prevent him from seeing the red eyes, and darkened circles beneath them, that laid on his tortured face. With the realization that he'd just destroyed any progress he might have been making with his son, he sunk into his chair, allowing tears to find his eyes before blinking them away.