Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

chapter i: making me a liar

Damian was having a fantastic day so far for a standard Gotham Monday.

Last night he completed a martial arts combination that impressed not only his father, but Richard as well and Damian couldn’t help the bit of pride that shone through after the fact. He woke up this morning to his favourite breakfast made by his favourite pseudo-grandfather and the weather was actually partially sunny and warm enough that Damian decided to forgo his jacket today. No one has tried to speak to him at school thus far, which has proved to bring a sense of calmness to his day.

Plus, currently, his favourite teacher had entrusted him with an extra assignment. The topic was one he was unfamiliar with, but he thinks with a little research, he will be able to tackle the subject with no problems.

What was the subject again? Ah, yes.

The history of modern romances compared to ancient mythological relationships. This topic allows him to delve into various aspects of love, including its portrayal in ancient myths and legends, its significance throughout history, and how it has evolved in contemporary society.

Damian thinks perhaps he could discuss different cultural perspectives on love, the influence of literature and art, and the changing dynamics of romantic relationships.

Dr. Stanton specifically told Damian he wanted him to use this essay to provide an opportunity of reflecting on his own experiences and beliefs about love and to include examples. Damian has never really dated anyone before. Unless you call that one disastrous date with Raven from the Teen Titans as dating.

However, Damian does not think this qualifies as such because it was one date and they decided they would be better off as friends immediately.

So he would have to do research for this project. But because his family is a bunch of snoops who would demolish him for even thinking about this topic inside the supposed comfort of his own head.

At the end of the day, Damian made his way to the largest of three libraries that Gotham, New Jersey had to offer, which just happened to be within walking distance from the Academy. He made quick work of slipping in unnoticed and sitting in a corner seat out of sight of the cameras and away from the public eye.

Damian looked down at his hand, which held the student identification badge of someone named Peter Greer. Making quick work of the student’s poorly guarded password, Damian got into the Chrome browser and finally felt safe enough to Google his question.

The day was still young so once Damian felt confident enough to grab some Ancient Mythological books that the kind, older librarian recommended, Damian checked out of the library and made his way to the waiting car.

Everything still seemed to be going his way, even during patrol when Damian stopped a would-be thief.

However, all good things must come to an end because after patrol, Richard pulled Damian to the side.

“Damian, now this is not us targeting you, but is there something you would like to tell us? Anything at all?” Richard looked at Damian expectantly, but Damian had no idea what Richard was on about, but he didn’t like the sound of where this was headed.

“Grayson, I am not aware of what you believe I have done.”

“I’m talking about your Google search…” Damian’s eyebrows furrowed deeper, surely they don’t mean? “... as in today at the Gotham Athenaeum.”

Damian’s pupils narrow in disdain. “Praytell, just what do you think I Googled.”

“You know what…” Richard looked down, beginning to feel ashamed for calling out his youngest brother like this within earshot of the rest of the family. “Barbara saw you leaving the library via traffic cams, but she couldn’t find evidence of you actually logging onto any of the computers. But she found what you checked out and went from there.”

Drake just had to input the final nail in the coffin. “How to be a good boyfriend.”

Todd snorted, “Like Demon-Spawn could even land a girlfriend with that surly attitude of his.”

“Damian, it’s okay to tell us about her now!” Richard– no– Grayson (because Damian was mad at him now) said, rather excitedly.

“Is she deaf? She’d have to be, to put up with that sharp tongue of yours.” Todd laughed at his own joke.

Damian could tell the truth about the paper, but would they actually believe it?

It was not right to lie to their faces, but they all looked so curious and excited about this wonderous girl that deigned to be with the demon spawn. Who could be sweet enough to stand the saltiness of the demon heir to the League of Assassins? What angel could tame the demon? Why would someone choose him ?

Todd looked smug, probably thinking that Damian had no girlfriend. Which, if he wanted one, he could totally find someone right for him. But as it stands, he did not need anyone.

Drake seemed… just tired and not so interested, but that was nothing new. The coffee addict had his beloved espresso beans replaced with decaf again by Alfred and Drake knows better than to go against him.

Bruce was always a hard one to read, but it seemed like he was most pleased by this development.

Finally, Grayson. Richard. The one Damian looks up to the most, if he was being honest with himself. He was the most fatherly out of everyone and had really stepped up when Bruce was… away. And Richard’s eyes seemed to scream: “Our little baby bird is growing up!”

Damian opened his mouth to tell the truth, but then stopped. He was tired of everyone discrediting him and how no one thought he was capable of loving someone else. When he had previously crushed on a handful of people. He was not some robot incapable of having feelings.

He was a person, dammit, and he wanted them to see how far he has come from the little  and be proud of him.

“Yes, she is a catch. Almost like a dream.” Damian curled in on himself, cringing a tiny bit at the lie. Not enough to be caught, however.

“Who is this girl?” Richard demanded, grinning like a loon. “What’s her name?”

Damian thought quickly of the newest addition at Gotham Academy. What was her name again? “Marinette Dupain-Cheng,” he answered swiftly. “She is a foreign exchange student from France. I find her tolerable.”

Todd smirked, “Well I can see why you were Googling how to be a better boyfriend, Demon-Spawn. It seems she must only like you for your money if that’s how you describe your girlfriend to others.”

Damian growled out, “For your information, she likes me for me and not who I am!”

“Then prove it,” Todd goads. “Bring her to an Alfred dinner on Friday so we can all meet this miraculous angel that she must be.”

“Fine.”

“Fine.”

“Fine!” Damian roared, departing and hastily retreating to his bedroom for the night to plot.

He had a contract to write up.

Chapter Text

chapter ii: i’ll get ya

Damian paced around his bedroom. He had T-minus four days to get Dupain-Cheng on board with being his fake girlfriend and learning enough about each other to fool his family. Dupain-Cheng seemed like a reasonable individual who would listen to… reason. Hopefully.

Since Dupain-Cheng had come to Gotham, she had seamlessly fit into the societal role of popularity. Making friends seemed to be easy when it came to the little French girl (of his supposed dreams, not actual, let’s make that clear).

She made friends wherever she went. Her first day was spent distributing an impressive amount of homemade French macarons.

He had made a very bad first impression, calling her baking poison. He had refused to take one and she just smiled, saying she understood where he was coming from. She had immediately turned to the next person and asked them if they would like a macaron. Of course, his seatmate said yes automatically, but was still glancing nervously at Damian in case he snapped.

She also seemed to be competent in her grades and afterschool curriculum. In fact, she had joined many of Damian’s favourite pastimes. Art Club, Debate Team, and even Students for Animal Welfare, so they saw each other quite a bit.

Dupain-Cheng was usually first to turn in her exams, much to his chagrin. And the teachers always praised her when passing the tests back.

She spoke French, Mandarin, and English, as far as he could tell.

And since that first day with macarons, Dupain-Cheng never once attempted to talk to Damian unless it was for something like passing a paint brush over. She never pried into his life and whether that was from the horror stories of other students or intuition, he may never know, but was quite thankful.

This is why when Damian approached Dupain-Cheng’s table at lunch the very next day, she seemed a bit confused. He sat down across from her and folded his hands together. Eyes never leaving hers, just studying her from his seat for a moment.

Finally, she cleared her throat and asked in a ( totally not adorable ) French accent, “Can I help you with something, Damian?”

He nodded, “Ah, so you have heard of me. Good, that will make this easier.”

Suddenly, he felt as if he had a frog stuck in his throat and his brain could not make the words leave his lips. His heart raced, and a cold sweat broke out on his forehead as he struggled to regain control of his nerves. How does one deal with nerves like this? It is unbearable, he thought to himself. The pressure of the moment seemed to amplify with each passing second, leaving him feeling paralysed and helpless. He desperately wished he could find a way to calm his racing thoughts and steady his trembling hands before the opportunity slipped away entirely.

“Dupain-Cheng—” He started and was there a crack in his voice?

“Marinette, please.” She requested.

“Marinette,” he corrected himself. If he wanted her to agree, he had to play by her rules right now. “I would like you to consider being my girlfriend for just Friday night’s evening.”

“Uh, what now? Girlfriend?”

“You would be playing the part of my girlfriend, that is correct, yes.”

“I mean, I’m flattered. But why me?” She tilted her head like a curious puppy dog. Her bright cerulean eyes flared with curiosity and her tongue darted out a little like she was thinking too hard about something.

He decided to go for analytical honesty. “From what I've observed, our extracurricular interests align, you appear to be well-educated, and I appreciate that you've respected my privacy thus far by not prying into my personal life. You are, therefore, the best candidate for the position.”

“May I have some time to think this over?”

Damian nodded, resolutely. “Of course you may. I’ll leave you to your lunch then. I apologise for the intrusion.”

Marinette watched him for the rest of lunch. He knew this because he could feel her eyes burning a hole in the back of his head. She must be contemplating his offer. It is a lot to spring on a person, he would imagine, after all.

In Art, a class where they share a seating arrangement with one another, Marinette seemed to have made her decision as she caught his attention with a wave of her hand.

“I don’t think I should do it.”

Damian’s face fell. His plea didn’t work. He would have to either come clean and risk the disappointed face of Richard or dig himself further into a hole.

“...But I will.”

Eyes the colour of emerald foliage meets her baby blues and suddenly his mind is blank. She said yes.

She said yes!

“I can pay you, as well, of course.” He offered as if it was no big deal because it absolutely wasn’t. His family had more wealth than they knew what to do with.

Marinette shook her head. “That won’t be necessary. I have plenty of my own money.”

“But aren’t you here on scholarship?” That was one of the many points that drew him to blurt her name first.

“Yes, but that is because of my grades. Not because of my financial standing.” She admitted to him.

He nodded, once. “Okay, well how can I pay you back for this favour if you do not need money?”

Marinette giggled to herself for a minute.

Oh no, here we go, he thought, She’s going to exploit the leeway I gave her.

“Could you get your father to give an interview to a friend of mine? She’s an aspiring reporter and she would love to hear from the Wayne family.”

He let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. That seemed simple enough. “I can, yes. I can also do her one better and get her an interview with Lois Lane and Clark Kent as well.”

Marinette’s grin was sharp, like that of a shark. “Deal!”

He stuck his hand out to complete the deal and she shook his awaiting hand.

“Deal,” Damian murmured back. “I look forward to working with you.”

Chapter Text

chapter iii: rumours spread like wildfire

During their free study period, Marinette and Damian devoted the remainder of the evening to strategizing on how to convincingly portray themselves as a couple. Marinette devised a set of questions for them to explore, aiming to deepen their understanding of each other, whilst Damian drafted a list of guidelines—a series of dos and don'ts—to govern their interactions.

Together, they agreed it would be prudent to limit public displays of affection to simple gestures such as holding hands and, perhaps, an occasional cheek kiss in front of Damian's family. They reasoned it would be wise to walk out together and experiment with holding hands to gauge their comfort level.

In doing so, Damian noticed a subtle yet undeniable fluttering sensation, an unfamiliar warmth that spreads from his fingertips to his core. It's a sensation that caught him off guard, reminding him of the unfamiliar territory of emotions and vulnerability. Despite his initial resistance, there's a strange comfort in the connection, a sense of reassurance in the midst of uncertainty. It's a sensation he struggled to reconcile with his stoic demeanour, yet it lingers, leaving him both intrigued and unsettled by the unexpected stirrings within him.

As their hands part, Damian finds himself unexpectedly disappointed, a perplexing sensation lingering within him without clear explanation.

Marinette bids him a farewell and kisses both sides of his cheeks gently causing a warming radiance to rise to his face. His heart surged with some kind of emotion he could not place.

The rest of Damian’s night is uneventful, leading up to the anticipation of the upcoming school day, which falls on Wednesday. Just two days before Marinette and he pulled off their deception to his family.

In their shared homeroom in the morning, Damian noticed that Marinette, who was not usually that punctual, was already seated when he walked in. She was wearing a white sundress that complimented the Spring season. When she finally noticed him, she perked up a little and waved to him.

“Good morning, Damian.”

“Good morning, Angel,” he greeted kindly, not even thinking about his slip up until Marinette practically choked on the air and turned completely pink. “I trust the rest of your evening was well?”

Marinette nodded, her cheeks still flushed with embarrassment. But she cleared her throat and began to ramble on. “Yes, I’m staying with a family friend of my parents and they are very kind. Their two sons remind me of a black cat and a golden retriever, respectively. Conner and Jon really are some characters.”

“Tt Jon and Conner Kent?” He almost rolled his eyes at the coincidence.

“Yes! Do you know of them? I know Jon goes to this school, but is a grade below us, and Conner is his older brother.”

“Unfortunately, I am well acquainted with both brothers, as I consider them to be my… associates. And if you were living with the Lane-Kents, why did you accept my deal previously? Wouldn't it have been easier to just ask them yourself for an interview for your friend?”

Marinette snorted. “Associates? You make them sound like business partners, Damian. Also, I wanted to respect their privacy, but if you could get the interview for Alya, then it's a win-win.”

“They are allies of mine.” He diverted.

“Allies? Can’t you just call them friends?”

“I’m afraid not, as I do not claim to have any friends. Forming attachments is not worth putting in effort for if the outcome is uncertain and the risks outweigh the benefits..”

“And what are we?”

“We…” Damian glanced around the room at all of the prying eyes. “You and I are dating, my dear. I know,” he emphasised and then toned it down to a softer, “The benefits outweigh the risks with you.”

Marinette’s eyes widened as if she just remembered what they were supposed to be and she turned a pretty shade of rose again.

They were never supposed to announce their “dating” status to the school, as it was only supposed to be Marinette meeting the family once and then they would amicably break up and stay friends. Damian loathed using the term “friends,” but it was the best word to appease his family, who would recognize his efforts to step out of his comfort zone.

However, at about 0300 in the morning, Damian awoke with the strangest feeling that they should announce their “relationship” to the other Gotham Academy students.

It wasn’t at all because he wanted to extend this relationship for longer than Friday. Not at all!

Indeed, Damian could argue that Friday's dinner would be far more productive if they portrayed an established relationship known to the student body. This would preempt any potential inquiries from his brothers’ little rats, as they would already be aware that Marinette Dupain-Cheng and Damian Wayne were “dating.”

Loud “whispers” buzzed through the air around the two as Marinette fixed her gaze on Damian, trying to discern his motives for such actions.

Are they together?

It’s a real life sunshine x grumpy love story! How romantic!

How can she stand him? He’s the Ice Prince for crying out loud! He hates everyone!

Marinette seemed to be ignoring the murmurs and he could tell she was thinking again because her eyes were narrowed and her tongue stuck out like yesterday at lunch.

Suddenly, she leaned closed and gave him another la bise, as he had read up on French kissing traditions after the cheek kisses last night. He knew that it was a friendly gesture meant to be a gesture of warmth and affection, similar to a hug or handshake in other cultures such as America. So it didn’t catch him as surprised when she kissed his cheek again.

What did catch him off guard, however, was when she lingered on his second cheek a bit longer than he thought she would. That familiar warmth creeped its way up his neck and onto his face. Damian willed it to leave, but he could still feel the heat radiating off himself.

“Thank you, mon coeur.” Marinette giggled and her laugh sounded like tinkling bells to his ears.

He cleared his throat and went for a smile, “It’s no problem. Really, I’m happy to be with you.”

Did he just smile?

That’s the first time I’ve ever seen his face do that.

I didn’t think it would be possible to crack him so easily.

Damian’s smile turned into a frown when he heard those things. He was still human. Once again, people assumed that Damian was basically just a robot, incapable of having feelings for himself.

Marinette asked him what was wrong, but Damian found himself unable to answer. If he told her, she may tell others or worse, she doesn’t tell others, but laughs at his inability to express emotions.

Damian decidedly shook his head, no. Right on time too, as the bell rang and the teacher walked in.

Marinette backed off from asking any other intrusive questions, but still held his hand under the table and it actually soothed him somehow. He was unsure if she was magic, but if she was, she certainly had a talent at calming others down. His tenseness was starting to wash away almost like an ocean’s wave washing over the sand on the beach. It was very relaxing and Damian found himself in an almost sleepy trance the rest of class.

After class, Damian walked alone to his next class, without Marinette. Her class was in Hallway B and Damian’s was in Hallway E, which were on opposite sides of the school so he didn’t have time to walk her to class, which he read in his research was an essential task to complete daily as a boyfriend.

Damian’s research also specified that handholding and cheek kisses were fine for a modest couple.

His ears burned as he listened in on a conversation in his Physics class.

Did you hear Wayne and Marinette are together now!

They are?

Yeah! And get this, he smiled in class at her!

What?! I’ve never seen him smile before. He’s always so serious.

Damian ignored the whispers. He could be happy sometimes. Again, people think he was some emotionless robot and it hurt.

When Damian met up with Marinette again, he instinctively reached for her hand. The simple touch had an immediate calming effect on him. She let him hold her hand all the way to the outside. His heart, although content, was beating like a hummingbird's wings. He couldn't quite explain why his body reacted like that, but it just seemed to work that way.

Being with Marinette felt easy. Like he could actually call her a friend if he wanted to.

“Hold up,” she expressed some distress and as her (fake!) boyfriend, he felt he must follow up with her. She was holding a magazine that she had picked up from the ground.

“What’s wrong, habibti?” He slipped up with the nickname, but rolled with the punches and pretended he said nothing.

“Why are we on the cover of Us Weekly?!” She screeched, distress palpable, and Damian just wanted to fix it.

“What do you mean we’re on the cover?”

She handed him the magazine and sure enough, there was a crystal clear shot of Marinette and Damian holding hands from yesterday. The bold lettering stated: “Youngest Wayne is in his First Relationship? Further Details Inside!”

“What the fu–”

Chapter Text

chapter iv: crucify myself

Damian prided himself on his privacy.

Everyone knew not to mess with the Waynes, but especially Damian. If someone were to spread any rumours about him, they could most certainly face legal fees until they die.

So why in the world was Damian staring at himself and Marinette holding hands walking out of school?

Who would be so stupid as to mess with the youngest Wayne?

His green eyes steeled as he addressed Marinette. “I cannot tell you why we are on the cover of this tabloid, but you can rest assured that I will find who is responsible and ensure they face consequences for this betrayal.”

Marinette, for her part, seems to take his strict demeanour in stride. “It’s really not that big of an issue, but I wish I had known we were going to be ambushed like that. It’s bad enough the entire school knows about our relationship, but now the entire world?”

“I apologise for the inconvenience this may have caused you. Is there anything I can do to help compensate for this impediment?”

“No, no. What’s done is done, ma chérie. There’s nothing to do, but as they say, ‘face the music.’”

“Yes, but as I have previously stated… I will be finding the culprit and holding them accountable with legal actions.” Damian was more surprised that someone had leaked a photo of the two of them. Everyone in school knew what would happen when Damian inevitably found whoever the perpetrator was. So why would someone decide to leak the photo now?

Damian wondered who it could be all the way until he got home to find a sheepish looking Drake in the foyer. Damian waited for him to get whatever he was going to say off his chest. But it looked like he would be waiting a while for this.

Eventually, Drake spoke.

“I have a confession,” Drake was biting his nails and was not even touching his coffee cup, which was out of the usual. “I accidentally texted Stephen…”

Damian’s eyes narrowed dramatically, “You didn’t.”

Drake nodded solemnly. “I did. I followed you at school and took the picture when you came out of the building holding hands. I just wanted photo evidence that you were telling the truth. But I hadn’t had any coffee that day so when I went to send the picture to Stephanie, I accidentally sent it to Stephen instead.”

“Let me clarify... You followed me without my consent, snapped a photo of me holding my... girlfriend's hand, and then conveniently 'accidentally' sent said photograph to the only Us Weekly reporter in our contacts. Is that accurate?”

Drake hung his head in shame. “Yes, but I promise it truly was an accident. I didn’t intend for you to be on the cover either. But I guess the Wayne family is hot news. Tell me what I can do to make up for this error.”

“Well you can start by apologising to my girlfriend Friday night and then I’ll take a promissory note for future use.”

“Done.”

“And you have to switch to decaf.”

“What?!”

“For a month.”

“Again I say, what?! That is so unfair.”

“Do you want me to forgive you?”

“Of course, little D.”

“Then perish.”

Drake’s mouth was agape and he started sputtering. “Perish? You want me to suffer the effects of caffeine withdrawal? Don’t you remember what happened last time I was off of coffee for more than three days. Even Alfred knew to give me back the real stuff after that episode.”

Damian’s lips set in a thin line. “Your temper tantrums are of no concern of mine. You will do as I ask or I will go to Grayson about this.”

Drake’s head looked like it was imploding as he was calculating the pros and cons of each side of the coin. Eventually, it seemed he settled on a decision as he looked at Damian and muttered, “Stupid Demon Brat, always ruining my mood.” Then louder, “Fine, I will apologise to Marinette at dinner Friday, give you your IOU, and then go decaf for one whole month. 30 days. Happy?”

“It’s a suitable start. Now, if you excuse me, I need to inform Marinette that the manhunt for the guilty party has been found and reprimanded. She should be most pleased as she was the one not too happy about being plastered in the news.” With that, Damian turned on his heels to march to his bedroom to do exactly as he said. He rang her using FaceTime.

When Marinette answered, she was slightly out of breath and sweaty. “Hello?”

“Good evening, Marinette. I apologise, was I interrupting something?” He questioned, wondering why she was breathing so heavily.

“Oh no, you’re absolutely fine! I was just running on the treadmill when you called. But I was just about done anyway because my legs are on fire.”

“Perhaps you should do a bit of yoga before partaking in a cardio-based exercise,” he suggested.

“That’s a really good idea! I will have to incorporate that into my workout routine from now on. Anyways, what’s up? How are you?”

“I am well. I have found the miscreant who dared sell our photo to the press,” Damian informed her.

“Well that’s certainly some news. Who was it?”

“My brother, I’m afraid he was following me because he thought I made you up,” Damian chuckled slightly. “However, when he went to send the text to one of our family members, he texted the Us Weekly journalist who has a very similar name to our sibling. It is very frustrating that he has done this.”

Marinette empathised, “I understand your frustration. It's incredibly disappointing and disrespectful for someone to betray your trust like that, especially when it involves a private moment between us. Have you had a chance to talk to your brother about why he did it and address the situation?”

“I have rebuked him and he is paying for what he has done with his precious coffee and will apologise to you Friday night. He also owes me a favour.”

“Well, I appreciate you addressing the situation with your brother, Damian. It sounds like he's taking responsibility for his actions, which is a step in the right direction. Hopefully, he'll learn from this experience and understand the importance of respecting others' privacy in the future. I'll be looking forward to his apology on Friday night.” She yawned immediately after finishing speaking.

“Are you tired, habibti?”

Marinette nodded on the video call. “Yes, a little. I’ve been working out for about an hour now so I’m exhausted.”

“You should rest. Resting will heal the body.”

“Okay, thanks Damian,” she smiled sleepily.

“Goodnight, habibti.”

“You keep calling me that… what language is that?” She sounded so curious and who was he to keep this from her.

Damian swallowed, “Habibti, it means my darling in Arabic.”

So what if he only gave part of the definition. She didn’t need to know that the other half could also mean beloved. It would just cause unnecessary confusion for her because even though that’s what his intent was when saying it, he held no feelings for her other than a slightly higher than average opinion and a calmness that washed over him whenever she was near.

“That’s beautiful. I like that nickname.”

She was beginning to doze off. Her eyes were shut and her breathing was getting deeper with every passing moment.

“Goodnight, Angel.”

“I like that nickname too.” She murmured, fighting to stay awake.

 “Shh, habibti, go to sleep now.”

“Don’t tell me what to do, I can stay up if I want to stay up. I just… don’t want to stay up.”

Damian laughed to himself, she was as stubborn as an ox. “Okay then… I’m hanging up now.”

“Wait, will you stay on with me until I fall asleep? I just don’t like being alone.”

“But I am not there in person to keep you company?” The confusion was dripping from his words.

“Hearing your voice with my eyes closed is almost as good as you being here to comfort me.”

He did not understand, but Damian decided to humour her. “Okay, I will stay on until you fall asleep.”

Damian fell asleep first somehow and they stayed on the call the entire night.

Chapter Text

chapter v: don't judge me tomorrow by the way I'm actin' today

When the two woke up this morning, still on call with one another, Damian and Marinette had made a plan to meet at the doors of the school to walk in together hand in hand. They both agreed this would be best to give the illusion of a united front. Damian brought with him a to-go cup of coffee for Marinette as well as one for himself. Hers was iced and sugary sweet (like her), whilst his coffee was just black.

However, when Marinette met up with him, she stole the black coffee from his hands and thanked him profusely for it and who was he to deny her that when she was so content with his drink?

He drank the sugary monstrosity with distaste, but hid it well.

Or so he thought.

“Do you normally drink black coffee?” Marinette asked, perceptive as ever.

Damian nods, “Yes, I typically consume my coffee black as well.”

“I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to just take this one without asking. I was just so tired, I took it without thinking.” Marinette fretted like Richard. Constantly second-guessing every move.

“Tt, do not worry too much. I do not mind. It is as much my fault for not asking your preference before buying.”

“But you went out of your way to get me a coffee. Let me make it up to you today. We can go to this tiny diner I found near the Lane-Kents’ home after school. Get something to eat and get to know one another more,” she suggested.

“I would be amenable to that,” he found himself agreeing.

Marinette's nod was resolute, her determination evident as she spoke. "Good... well, shall we go in?" Her hand extended towards him, a silent invitation that spoke volumes.

Damian regarded her gesture with a mixture of surprise and curiosity. It was not unexpected, the offer of her hand. What was unexpected was this offer of companionship from someone he had initially viewed as little more than a strategic ally. Yet, as he gazed into Marinette's earnest eyes, he found himself unable to resist the pull of her outstretched hand.

Without hesitation, Damian reached out, his fingers intertwining with hers in a silent pact. Surprisingly, the contact did not unsettle him as he had expected. Instead, he felt a sense of calm wash over him, a comforting warmth emanating from Marinette's touch.

As they stood there, hand in hand, Damian couldn't help but marvel at the unexpected turn of events. In the past, such displays of intimacy would have left him feeling uneasy, but now, with Marinette by his side, he found himself embracing the connection they shared.

Together, they walked inside of the school and found themselves once again the centre of attention. When they entered their shared homeroom and parted to their seats, Marinette kissed his cheeks in another la bise. Despite knowing this was just a normal part of French culture, Damian still felt a blush rise up his neck to the tips of his ears and inflame his face.

By the time school is over, Marinette and Damian have presented a united front to the student body and the rest of the school is now aware of their “relationship” as they wanted. Marinette and Damian walk hand in hand to this little café that Marinette raved about on the walk over. She explained that she had been missing home and found it when she needed it most. Marinette sang praises of the pan au chocolat, stating that it was almost as good as her parents’ chocolate croissants.

When they went in, Marinette took the helm as she ordered something called a ‘dirty chai latte’ for herself and a black coffee for Damian. She ordered a couple of the patisserie treats and paid the barista, making sure to leave a sizable tip in the jar.

Damian was impressed. Marinette was the one to invite him out, yes, and despite the fact that she previously stated money was not an issue, he was expecting to pay for them both. However, it appeared she was true to her word on not needing him to pay for her. It was a refreshing feeling.

As they settled into their seats, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the tantalizing scent of burgers and fries, Marinette leaned forward, excitement shining in her eyes. "Have I ever told you about André and his soulmate ice cream cart?" she began, her voice tinged with a hint of mystery.

Damian raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Marinette's sudden enthusiasm. "André? Soulmate ice cream cart?" he echoed, his curiosity piqued.

Marinette nodded eagerly, a smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Yes! It's this amazing little cart in Paris, run by a man named André. He's not just any ice cream vendor, though. He has this uncanny ability to read people's souls and express them through the flavours of his ice cream."

Damian's skepticism was evident as he listened to Marinette's tale. "That sounds... nonsensical," he remarked, his tone laced with doubt.

But Marinette shook her head adamantly, her eyes sparkling with conviction. "Oh, but it's true, Damian! André's ice cream is like magic. Each flavor tells a story, revealing hidden truths and soul connections. It's an experience unlike any other."

Despite his doubts, Damian found himself intrigued by Marinette's unwavering belief. There was something captivating about the way she spoke of André and his mystical ice cream cart, a sense of wonder that he couldn't ignore.

As they continued their conversation, Damian couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Marinette's tale than met the eye. Perhaps André's ice cream was more than just a fanciful story—it was a symbol of hope and possibility, a reminder that magic could be found in the most unexpected of places. And if Marinette believed in it with all her heart, then perhaps there was some truth to it after all.

Then Marinette switched gears and asked if he at least believed in luck.

“I’d doubt there are things like good or bad luck in the world, but I would be amenable to believe that perhaps there are things that fate deigns to present in someone’s life.”

“Well, speaking as someone who is infinitely lucky,” her cerulean eyes sparkled at that, “I won my academic scholarship based on my grades, yes, but it was still a lottery based pick to attend Gotham Academy for the double business-art track it offers. Then I met you. I would call that pretty lucky, would you not?”

Damian couldn't help but be drawn in by Marinette's optimism, her unwavering belief in the power of luck and fate. Despite his initial scepticism, he found himself considering her words with a newfound openness.

Perhaps there was something to be said for the idea of luck, Damian thought to himself. And if Marinette's presence in his life was any indication, then perhaps fate did have a way of bringing unexpected blessings into one's life.

As they sat together, lost in thought, Damian couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the serendipitous turn of events that had brought Marinette into his life. And as he looked into her eyes, shining bright with hope and possibility, he couldn't help but wonder what other surprises fate had in store for them. This get together was very eye-opening indeed and it had been going well, a little too well, in fact.

Suddenly, as if Fate heard his scepticism, flashes of light bombarded the two on their way out of the café. Damian growled at the scum of the earth paparazzi.

As the flashes of light assaulted them, Damian's irritation flared, his muscles tensing at the unwelcome intrusion. The paparazzi, like vultures descending upon their prey, swarmed around them with relentless fervour.

"Damian! Marinette, how do you feel about Damian?" one of the intrusive voices demanded, thrusting a microphone towards them.

Marinette remained surprisingly composed in the face of the onslaught, her demeanour unwavering despite the chaos unfolding around them. Damian couldn't help but admire her poise, even as his own frustration simmered beneath the surface and wonder where this composure came from. Perhaps she has dealt with the media before? But how could she?

"Damian is a great guy," Marinette responded, her voice steady despite the cacophony of noise surrounding them. "And I feel very lucky to call him mine."

Her words cut through the chaos like a beacon of calm, grounding Damian in the midst of the storm. Despite the intrusion of the paparazzi and the scrutiny of the public eye, Marinette's unwavering support was a reminder that they were in this together.

As they navigated the sea of flashing lights and probing questions, Damian found solace in Marinette's steadfast presence by his side. And as they emerged from the chaos, hand in hand, he knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, united against the relentless tide of scrutiny and speculation.

“And how do you two feel about the hashtag ‘DaminetteIsOTP’ trending on Twitter?” Another reporter asked.

Damian stopped, pulling Marinette to a stop as well. “The what now?”

Marinette cackled next to him.

Chapter Text

chapter vi: looking at you got me thinking nonsense

Marinette had a bad feeling about this Friday.

As Marinette stumbled through the morning, her nerves already on edge, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that hung over her like a dark cloud. Oversleeping and missing her usual walk to school with Damian was just the first in a series of omens that seemed to foreshadow a day fraught with challenges.

When they finally did walk together, Marinette's clumsiness reared its head once again, nearly causing her to trip and fall if not for Damian's quick reflexes in catching her. She couldn't help but feel a pang of frustration at her own clumsiness, a stark contrast to the confidence and grace she exhibited as Ladybug.

But thoughts of Ladybug only served to deepen Marinette's sense of uncertainty. With the crisis in Paris now resolved and Lila's reign as the new Hawkmoth brought to an end, Marinette found herself at a loss. She still held the Butterfly Miraculous in her possession, but with no one to partner with, it felt like a weight upon her shoulders.

And then there was Chat Noir. Learning of his father's crimes had shaken him to the core, leading him to resign from his role as Paris' beloved superhero. The absence of her faithful partner only added to Marinette's sense of isolation, leaving her feeling adrift in a sea of uncertainty.

As Marinette braced herself for the challenges that lay ahead on this fateful Friday, she couldn't help but wonder what the future held in store. With so much uncertainty weighing on her mind, she knew that she would need to summon all of her strength and courage to navigate the trials that awaited her.

Despite the ominous signs that had plagued her morning, Marinette found a glimmer of excitement in the prospect of her "not-a-real-date" with Damian. They had made plans to spend the afternoon at the Gotham Museum of Arts, immersing themselves in the world of creativity and culture before heading to Damian's family dinner.

As she walked beside Damian, Marinette couldn't help but feel a flutter of anticipation in her chest. The thought of exploring the museum with him, sharing in the experience of admiring art and learning about history, filled her with a sense of joy and anticipation.

With each step they took, Marinette found herself growing more and more eager for the adventures that lay ahead. Despite the challenges she had faced earlier in the day, the promise of spending time with Damian filled her with a renewed sense of hope and excitement.

As they approached the museum entrance, Marinette's heart raced with anticipation. She knew that whatever the day had in store for them, she was ready to face it head-on, with Damian by her side. And as they stepped inside the museum, hand in hand, Marinette couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the chance to share this moment with someone special like her new found friend.

However, all of a sudden the lights go out and the windows implode in. A sinister laugh reverberates throughout the museum.

Scarecrow appears.

A little girl screamed as the villain pulled her from her mother’s grip.

As the chaos unfolded around them, Damian tightened his grip on Marinette's hand, his instincts kicking into high gear. With a swift motion, he pulled her behind a nearby pillar, seeking refuge from the impending danger.

But Marinette had other ideas. Despite the fear that gripped her heart, she couldn't stand idly by while innocent lives were threatened. Drawing upon her courage and determination, she stepped out from behind the pillar, her voice ringing out with defiance.

“Hey!” she called out, her tone filled with anger and determination. “Pick on someone your own size!”

Her words echoed through the museum, cutting through the darkness like a beacon of hope. Scarecrow turned his attention towards her, his wicked cackle momentarily silenced by her bold challenge.

For a brief moment, the air crackled with tension as Marinette stared down the villain before her, her resolve unwavering despite the danger that surrounded them.

The fear gas enveloped Marinette, twisting her thoughts and distorting her perceptions, a primal instinct took hold. In a flash, her training kicked in, and she moved with precision and grace, her movements fueled by a potent combination of fear and adrenaline.

As Marinette succumbed to the effects of the fear serum, her surroundings twisted and contorted into grotesque shapes straight from the depths of her nightmares. Chat Blanc materialised before her, his malevolent grin sending shivers down her spine as he taunted her with her own name.

“Marinette~ we belong together!” He bared his teeth.

Marinette's breath caught in her throat, her heart pounding with terror as she confronted the embodiment of her worst fears. But even in the face of such overwhelming dread, a flicker of determination burned within her.

And as she stood there, her resolve unwavering despite the horrors that surrounded her, Damian couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration for the bravery of the girl at his side. In that moment, as they faced the darkness together, he knew that they were stronger united, their bond forged in the crucible of fear and uncertainty. With Marinette by his side, Damian felt a renewed sense of purpose, ready to confront whatever challenges lay ahead, no matter how daunting they may seem.

He knew that Marinette needed a hero, or a vigilante in his case. So Damian did what he did best and slipped into the shadows to change into his Robin costume.

As Damian emerged from the shadows, clad in his Robin costume, he prepared himself to intervene and protect Marinette from the clutches of Scarecrow. However, what he witnessed next took him by surprise.

Marinette, fuelled by a mixture of fear and determination, unleashed a flurry of strikes upon Scarecrow with remarkable agility and precision. Her roundhouse kicks and straight punches landed with force, driving the villain back with each blow.

Scarecrow, caught off guard by Marinette's sudden assault, cried out in pain and desperation, pleading for her to stop. But Marinette was relentless, her movements fueled by the effects of the fear serum coursing through her veins. She began vertical punching Scarecrow in the face.

Although he should step in to stop her from killing the villain, Damian couldn't help but marvel at Marinette's courage and strength.

As he moved to assist her, Damian couldn't shake the feeling of admiration for the girl before him. Despite the overwhelming terror that gripped her. It was clear that she was fighting not just against Scarecrow, but against her own inner demons as well. Though, Marinette refused to back down, proving herself to be a true hero in every sense of the word. And in that moment, Damian knew that he would do whatever it took to ensure her safety and protect her from harm.

His teammates arrived and handed him the antidote to give to her.

As the effects of the fear serum began to subside and the adrenaline that had fueled her fight against Scarecrow waned, Marinette's body finally succumbed to exhaustion. With a soft sigh, she slumped to the ground, her consciousness slipping away as darkness enveloped her mind.

Robin, kneeling by her side, felt a pang of concern as he watched Marinette's unconscious form. Gently, he reached out to brush a stray lock of hair from her face, his touch light and careful.

“She's passed out,” Damian announced, his voice laced with worry as he glanced up at the others gathered around them. “We need to get her somewhere safe.”

With careful hands, Damian lifted Marinette into his arms, cradling her gently against his chest as he prepared to carry her to safety. Despite the chaos that had unfolded around them, his focus remained solely on ensuring Marinette's well-being.

As they made their way out of the museum, Damian spared a moment to glance down at Marinette's peaceful face, a flicker of concern crossing his features. He knew that she would need time to recover from the ordeal they had just faced, but he was determined to be there for her every step of the way.

As Damian handed Marinette over to the waiting EMT officers, a sense of urgency surged through him. With a fleeting glance back at Marinette's still form, he turned and sprinted towards the shadows, his mind racing with thoughts of what needed to be done next.

Ducking into a secluded alleyway, Damian quickly shed his Robin costume, exchanging it for his civilian attire with practised efficiency.

As he emerged from the alley, Damian's gaze flickered towards the ambulance where Marinette lay, a silent, but not-quite-a, prayer for her well-being echoing in his mind. But there was no time to dwell on his concerns. He had a role to play, both as a member of the Wayne family and as Marinette's friend.

With a determined stride, Damian made his way back towards the scene, his mind already racing with plans to ensure Marinette's safety and uncover the truth behind Scarecrow's attack. Whatever lay ahead, Damian was ready to face it head-on, his resolve unwavering as he prepared to stand by Marinette's side no matter what.

As Marinette began to stir from her unconscious state, her eyes fluttering open with a glimmer of excitement, Damian couldn't help but feel a surge of relief wash over him. Despite the oxygen mask and fire blanket that enveloped her, her smile shone through, brightening the dimly lit interior of the ambulance.

“Thank you for staying with me,” Marinette beamed, her voice muffled by the oxygen mask. “They told me you ran and got Robin to save me. That was very brave of you.”

Damian's lips quirked in amusement at her words, a faint chuckle escaping him. “Oh, I'm brave? You took on Scarecrow and won. He didn't even stand a chance.”

Marinette's expression shifted, a hint of discomfort flickering across her features. “Listen, I saw Chat Blanc and I did not deal with it very well. He terrifies me. And although Chat Blanc is no longer an issue and will never happen, at least not again, I was just doing what I thought I had to to survive.”

Her words resonated with Damian, a reminder of the strength and resilience that lay within Marinette despite her fears. “Surviving takes courage, Marinette,” he replied softly, his gaze meeting hers with understanding. “And you showed that in spades today. I'm just glad I could be there to help.”

Marinette's eyes widened with concern as the realisation dawned on her. "What about your family dinner? Oh no, I've ruined it, haven't I?" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with worry.

But Damian simply reached out, gently taking her hand in his, his touch warm and reassuring. "Don't worry about that," he said softly, his gaze meeting hers with understanding. "We'll reschedule it. Right now, the most important thing is your well-being. We need to make sure all of the fear serum is fully out of your body."

His words were a balm to Marinette's frayed nerves, a reminder that she wasn't alone in this. With Damian by her side, she felt a sense of reassurance that everything would be alright.

Nodding gratefully, Marinette leaned into Damian's comforting presence, allowing herself to relax knowing that he was there to support her every step of the way. And as they waited for her to recover, Marinette couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the kindness and understanding that Damian had shown her in her time of need.

Chapter Text

chapter vii: now i'm covered in you

“And you're sure you're okay?” Damian fretted once more, his brow furrowed with concern as he peered at Marinette through the little live video feed.

Marinette couldn't help but roll her eyes affectionately at his persistent worry. “Damian, I'm fine now! Promise!” She reassured him, her voice tinged with exasperation.

On the other end of the call, Damian frowned, his expression pensive. “I can't tell if you're lying through FaceTime, but I will take your word for it. At least for now,” he conceded, his tone cautious yet sincere.

Sighing softly, Marinette couldn't help but smile at his earnest concern. “I think it's nice that you care about my wellbeing so much,” she admitted, a hint of warmth in her voice.

Damian's cheeks flushed slightly, a telltale sign of his embarrassment even through the phone. “Well, you are a fr—...” He paused, clearing his throat awkwardly before continuing, “...an acquaintance of mine. That makes you important to me.”

Marinette couldn't contain a soft chuckle at his attempt to downplay their relationship. “Aw~ Damian, you do care that we're friends!” She teased gently, her laughter ringing out.

Damian's blush deepened, and Marinette could practically hear the shuffling of his feet on the other end of the line. “No, we are simply acquaintances. That is all I have to say about it. Goodnight,” he replied curtly before abruptly ending the call.

As Marinette was left alone with her thoughts once more, a smile lingered on her lips. Despite Damian's insistence on keeping their relationship strictly professional, she couldn't help but feel a warm sense of camaraderie between them, one that transcended mere acquaintanceship.

As Marinette lay in bed, her thoughts swirling with the complexities of her newfound friendship with Damian, she couldn't help but reflect on how quickly their bond had developed. It had only been a matter of days since they had started speaking to each other, yet Damian was already on the verge of calling her a friend, akin to his relationship with Jon. It was a privilege she didn't take lightly.

A smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she recalled the sight of Damian flushed on FaceTime. He looked so endearingly flustered, a stark contrast to his usual stoic demeanour, and Marinette couldn't help but find it utterly adorable.

But her smile faltered as a sudden realisation struck her like a bolt of lightning. She liked Damian. Liked him in a way that went beyond friendship. It was a disaster of epic proportions! She couldn't afford to develop feelings for her newfound friend, not when she valued their friendship so much.

Crushes had a way of complicating things, of muddying the waters and introducing a host of uncertainties. What if Damian didn't feel the same way? What if he grew distant because he felt uncomfortable with her feelings for him?

Marinette sighed, feeling a sense of trepidation gnawing at her heart. She wanted nothing more than to preserve the camaraderie they had built, to enjoy Damian's company without the weight of unrequited feelings hanging over her head. But as she lay there in the darkness, she couldn't shake the nagging fear that her burgeoning crush might just spell the end of their newfound friendship.

Marinette tossed and turned in bed, her mind consumed by the weight of her revelation. What was she supposed to do now? Did she owe it to Damian to confess her feelings, or should she keep them buried deep within her heart, feigning ignorance to her own emotions?

The thought of telling Damian the truth was daunting. What if he didn't feel the same way? What if their friendship was irreparably damaged as a result? The fear of rejection loomed large in Marinette's mind, casting a shadow over any potential confession.

But on the other hand, the idea of burying her feelings and pretending they didn't exist felt equally suffocating. It would be a constant struggle to suppress her emotions, to watch Damian from afar and pretend that her heart didn't flutter at the sight of him.

In the end, Marinette knew that neither option was ideal. Confessing her feelings risked their friendship, while burying them threatened her own emotional well-being. It was a lose-lose situation, and she felt trapped between two equally daunting choices.

With a heavy sigh, Marinette resigned herself to the only option she felt she had left: keeping her feelings a secret. It wouldn't be healthy, she knew, but for now, it seemed like the only way to preserve their friendship. She would shove her feelings to the back burner, burying them beneath a facade of platonic camaraderie.

Marinette’s thoughts swirled in a tumultuous whirlwind of uncertainty. Despite her best efforts to push aside her feelings, now that they were out in the open,  they continued to gnaw at her, a persistent ache in the depths of her heart.

With each passing moment, the weight of her secret grew heavier, pressing down on her chest like a suffocating blanket. She couldn't help but wonder if she was making the right decision by keeping her feelings hidden. Would it be fair to Damian to conceal the truth from him? Or would it be selfish of her to burden him with the knowledge of her unrequited affection?

The thought of confessing her feelings filled Marinette with a sense of dread. The mere possibility of rejection sent a shiver down her spine, leaving her trembling with fear.

But then again, the alternative was no less daunting. To continue pretending that her feelings didn't exist felt like a betrayal of her own heart. How could she stand by and watch as Damian went about his life, oblivious to the depth of her emotions? It seemed like a form of self-imposed torture, a punishment for daring to fall for someone she couldn't have.

Lost in her thoughts, Marinette found herself torn between two equally unappealing options. Confessing her feelings risked their friendship, while burying them threatened her own emotional well-being. It was a choice between heartache and heartbreak, and Marinette couldn't shake the feeling that either path would lead to pain.

But amidst the turmoil of her conflicted emotions, one thing remained clear: she couldn't keep her feelings hidden forever. Sooner or later, the truth would come to light, whether she liked it or not. And when that day inevitably arrived, Marinette could only hope that she would have the courage to face whatever consequences lay in store. Until then, she would continue to grapple with the weight of her secret, navigating the treacherous waters of unrequited love with a heavy heart and a steadfast resolve.

As she finally succumbed to sleep, Marinette couldn't shake the lingering sense of unease that gripped her heart. She knew that keeping her feelings hidden wouldn't be easy, but for the time being, it was the only choice she had. And so, with a heavy heart, she drifted off into an uneasy slumber, burdened by the weight of her unspoken emotions.

Chapter Text

chapter viii: you were the prince, i used to be a damsel in distress

As Damian rifled through his closet, his keen eyes scanned the array of garments with precision. He was determined to find the perfect outfit for the family dinner tonight, one that would impress Marinette without seeming too ostentatious.

After a few moments of deliberation, he settled on a tailored black blazer, paired with a crisp white shirt and fitted trousers. The ensemble exuded an air of sophistication, perfectly complementing Damian's refined demeanour.

But as he slipped into the outfit, a nagging sense of unease gnawed at the back of his mind. Was this attire too formal for a casual family dinner? Would Marinette approve of his sartorial choice, or would she find it overly pretentious?

Pushing aside his doubts, Damian straightened his collar with a determined air. He had made his decision, and he would stand by it. After all, Marinette had always appreciated his attention to detail and sense of style.

With a final glance in the mirror to ensure everything was in place, Damian nodded to himself in satisfaction. He was ready to pick up Marinette and embark on what promised to be an unforgettable evening with his family. As he made his way to the door, a faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips. Tonight would be a night to remember, and Damian was determined to make it perfect for Marinette.

As Damian approached Marinette's address at the Lane-Kents, he couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation coursing through his veins. His heart skipped a beat as he caught sight of her standing outside, bathed in the soft glow of the evening sun. She appeared to be engrossed in conversation, her animated gestures and lively expression painting a picture of pure charm.

But it was Marinette's appearance that truly took Damian's breath away. Clad in a delicate pink dress that seemed to shimmer in the fading light, she exuded an ethereal beauty that left him momentarily speechless for reasons he was unsure of. The dress hugged her curves in all the right places, accentuating her graceful silhouette, and Damian couldn't help but marvel at the skill and craftsmanship that had undoubtedly gone into its creation.

A sense of admiration washed over him as he approached Marinette, his gaze lingering on her radiant smile and sparkling eyes. She was a vision of loveliness, and Damian couldn't shake the feeling that he was the luckiest man in the world to have her by his side.

“Marinette,” he greeted her warmly, his voice tinged with a hint of awe. "You look absolutely stunning."

Marinette's cheeks flushed pink at his compliment, and she offered him a shy smile in return. “Thank you, Damian,” she replied, her voice soft and melodious. “I... uh, I made this dress myself.”

Damian's eyes widened in admiration. “You crafted this?” he asked incredulously, his gaze sweeping over the intricate details of the garment. “It's exquisite.”

Marinette beamed with pride at his praise, her eyes sparkling with joy. “I'm glad you like it,” she said, her voice filled with genuine warmth. “Shall we head to dinner?”

With a nod of agreement, Damian extended his arm towards Marinette, a gesture of chivalry that felt strangely natural. As she looped her arm through his, Damian felt a sense of contentment wash over him. Tonight was shaping up to be a truly magical evening, and he couldn't wait to spend it in Marinette's company.

As Todd and Drake greeted Damian and Marinette at the door, Damian couldn't help but roll his eyes at Todd's playful teasing. He shot his older brother a warning glare, silently urging him to drop the subject.

“It’s nice to meet Damian’s girlfriend,” Drake excitedly shook her hand.

Marinette, however, seemed unfazed by Todd's antics, offering Drake  a polite smile in return. “Yes, that's me,” she replied with a hint of amusement. “It's a pleasure to meet you.”

Drake, ever the voice of reason, stepped in to diffuse the situation with a wry grin. “Ignore him, Marinette,” he said, clapping Damian on the shoulder. “Jason just likes to stir the pot. Welcome to the family dinner.”

Damian shot Drake a grateful look, appreciative of his brother's intervention. “Thank you, Drake,” he said, his tone sincere. “It's good to see you both.”

Todd, undeterred by Damian's obvious discomfort, continued to tease with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. “And there's the two lovebirds!” He exclaimed, earning an exasperated sigh from Damian. “Marinette, was it? Damian here hasn't stopped raving about you since he unwillingly spilled the beans.”

Marinette's cheeks flushed pink at Todd's teasing, but she couldn't suppress a giggle at the playful banter. “Well, I'm flattered,” she replied, shooting Damian a teasing glance. “But I'm afraid Damian might be exaggerating just a tad.”

Damian bristled at the attention, but he couldn't deny the warmth that flooded his chest at Marinette's lighthearted response. Despite Todd's teasing, he couldn't help but feel grateful to have Marinette by his side, even if it meant enduring a bit of playful ribbing from his brothers.

As they made their way into the house, Damian couldn't shake the feeling that tonight was going to be an unforgettable evening, filled with laughter, love, and perhaps a few more teasing jabs from Todd along the way. But with Marinette by his side, Damian knew that he wouldn't have it any other way.

As dinner progressed through the night, the playful banter and teasing continued unabated, much to Damian's chagrin. Todd and Drake seemed to take most delight in ribbing Damian and Marinette, their mischievous grins betraying their amusement at the younger couple's expense. Marinette was a good sport through it all, but was blushing from head to toe.

It wasn't until Bruce intervened, his stern voice cutting through the din of conversation, that the teasing finally came to a halt. “That's enough, boys,” he admonished, fixing his sons with a pointed look. “Let's show some courtesy to our guests.”

Todd and Drake exchanged sheepish looks before reluctantly complying with their father's request, albeit with a few muttered grumbles of protest. Damian breathed a sigh of relief, grateful for the reprieve from his brothers' teasing.

Throughout it all, Richard remained a silent observer, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he watched the interaction unfold. Unlike Todd and Drake, he seemed genuinely pleased to see Damian with someone who could bring out his lighter side, someone who could help him navigate the complexities of teenage life.

As the meal drew to a close, Richard couldn't resist the urge to speak up, a warm smile gracing his features. “It's good to see you happy, little brother,” he said, his voice filled with genuine affection. “Having someone by your side seems to agree with you.”

Damian felt a surge of gratitude towards his eldest brother, touched by the genuine kindness in his words. With Marinette by his side, Damian felt as though he could finally let down his guard and just be himself, flaws and all, which he knew he had Marinette to thank.

As they cleared the table and retired to the living room for dessert, Damian couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. Tonight had been far from perfect, but in the company of his family and Marinette, Damian knew that he had everything he needed to be happy. And for that, he was truly grateful.

The night ended in a smashing success and Marinette seemed content when Damian dropped her off back at the Lane-Kents’ home and a sense of contentment settled over them both. The evening had been filled with laughter, good food, and the warmth of family. Despite the initial teasing from his brothers, Damian couldn't deny that he had thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Marinette, and he found himself feeling grateful for her presence in his life.

As Marinette leaned in to kiss him goodnight in the traditional French manner of a la bise, Damian couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement in his chest. He had grown accustomed to this gesture of affection from Marinette over the past few days, but that didn't stop his face from flushing at the contact.

With a shy smile, Damian returned Marinette's kiss on the cheeks, his heart skipping a beat at the closeness between them. Despite his best efforts to maintain his composure, Damian couldn't shake the feeling of warmth that spread through him at Marinette's touch.

Marinette bid him goodnight and disappeared inside her host family's home. Damian lingered for a moment, savouring the lingering sensation of her kiss on his cheeks. In that moment, he couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the days ahead, eager to see where this newfound connection with Marinette would lead.

Chapter Text

chapter ix: i think i’m falling for you

Four weeks later, the bond between Damian and Marinette had deepened in ways neither had anticipated. Their initial arrangement, born out of a necessity to navigate the complexities of Damian’s lie turned into public deception, had evolved into a genuine and profound connection. The time they spent together, whether in the quiet corners of the Gotham Museum of Arts, strolling through the city’s vibrant streets, or in the secluded sanctity of the Wayne Manor’s extensive gardens, was filled with laughter, shared confidences, and an ease of being that neither had experienced with anyone else.

Damian, known for his guarded nature and fierce independence, found himself opening up to Marinette in a way he had never done before. Marinette, in turn, shared her own tales of Paris, the challenges of living away from home. Their conversations often lasted late into the night, each revelation weaving a tighter bond between them.

Marinette had brought a sense of lightness to Damian's life that he hadn't realised was missing. Her optimism, her unwavering belief in the goodness of people, and her fierce determination to make a positive impact on the world challenged and inspired him. Damian, on the other hand, offered Marinette a steadfast presence, a shoulder to lean on, and a partner who respected and admired her strength and independence.

Their relationship had become the subject of much speculation at school, with classmates and even teachers noting the change in both Damian and Marinette. They moved through the halls with a quiet confidence, often seen sharing private smiles or engaged in deep conversation and always seen holding hands.

The hashtag #DaminetteIsOTP continued to trend, with fans and followers speculating about the nature of their relationship and rooting for their success.

Despite the public attention, Damian and Marinette managed to carve out a space for themselves that was untouched by the outside world. They found solace in each other's company, whether they were battling side by side on the streets of Gotham or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. The trust and understanding between them had grown to the point where words were often unnecessary; a glance, a touch, or a smile was enough to convey their thoughts and feelings.

One such evening, Damian had recommended that he and Marinette meet at the Wayne Manor Gardens for them to enjoy one another’s company and draw their respective subjects together.

The Wayne Manor Gardens, with their sprawling expanse and meticulously maintained flora, offered a serene backdrop for the evening Damian had planned. Nestled amidst the vibrant blooms of various horticultural delights and the gentle rustling of leaves, the setting was perfect for a quiet rendezvous, away from the prying eyes of the world.

Damian, ever the strategist, had chosen this location not just for its privacy but also for its inspiring beauty. The gardens, a testament to the Wayne family's legacy, were a place where nature's untamed beauty was sculpted into a tranquil haven. For someone like Marinette, whose artistic soul thrived on inspiration drawn from the world around her, it was the ideal setting to ignite her creativity.

Their plan was simple yet intimate: to spend the evening drawing their respective subjects in each other's company, sharing silent moments of creativity and occasional bursts of conversation. For Damian, it was an opportunity to see Marinette in her element, witnessing firsthand the passion and focus she poured into her art. For Marinette, it was a chance to glimpse a different side of Damian, one that was perhaps softer and more reflective than his usual stoic demeanour.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the gardens, the air filled with the symphony of twilight. Birds sang their evening songs, and the fragrance of blooming flowers became more pronounced, setting a picturesque scene for their meeting.

Marinette arrived with her sketchpad and pencils in tow, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the garden bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. Damian, already there, greeted her with a nod, a subtle smile playing on his lips as he took in her enthusiastic response to the setting.

They chose a spot under a grand oak tree, providing them with both inspiration and a sense of seclusion. As they settled in, the world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them, their art, and the beauty of the Wayne Manor Gardens.

The evening unfolded with a comfortable ease, the only sounds being the scratch of pencils on paper, the occasional chatter of wildlife, and their soft exchanges. It was in these moments, amidst the tranquillity of nature and the shared silence of companionship, that their bond continued to deepen, anchored in mutual respect and an emerging fondness for one another.

Damian found himself intrigued by Marinette's artistic process, her ability to capture the essence of her subject with a few deft strokes. Marinette, in turn, was fascinated by Damian's focus and the meticulous attention to detail in his realism work. They exchanged tips and insights, learning from each other in a way that felt both new and incredibly natural.

At one point of intimacy, Marinette and Damian both leaned in towards one another. Their eyes meeting that of the other’s and sharing a private smile that just the two of them recognised. Damian being the first to come to his senses, pulled back.

“This has been… fun,” he smiled genuinely towards her.

Marinette gave a half smile back, slightly disappointed by the turn of events. “Agreed. We should come here again sometime.”

“Bet.”

Marinette cracked up, body shaking from boisterous laughter, “Damian, you cannot use the Gen Z slang I taught you on me! It’s supposed to be for your brothers!”

Damian stared at her apologetically. “I apologise, I thought I was to incorporate this material into my everyday language. Did I misinterpret?”

“No, no! It’s absolutely fine for you to talk like that. I just was not expecting it, is all.” Her laughter had settled down to a soft chuckle. Finally, she seemed to calm down entirely and became very serious. “Damian, I want you to know you can be yourself around me, no matter what.”

Damian took her hand in his and entangled their fingers together. “I appreciate that… Well, we should go, it’s getting late and I have to take you home.”

As night fell and the first stars began to twinkle in the sky, they packed up their materials, both feeling a sense of fulfilment not just from the art they had created but from the connection that had flourished in the quiet of the garden. The evening in the Wayne Manor Gardens had been more than just an opportunity to draw; it had been a shared experience that had brought them closer, weaving a new thread into the fabric of their growing friendship and leaving the possibility of something more.

Chapter Text

chapter x: took this dagger in me and removed it

Monday afternoon arrived with a deceptive calmness, the sun casting a golden hue over the bustling school courtyard as students chattered excitedly, their voices merging into a cacophony of youthful energy. Marinette, with her usual grace, manoeuvred through the crowd, her mind preoccupied with thoughts of the afternoon ahead.

As the final bell rang, signalling the end of another school day, Marinette made her way to their designated meeting spot, her steps quickening with anticipation. Damian was already there, his presence commanding attention even amidst the throng of students. Marinette's heart skipped a beat at the sight of him, a rush of warmth flooding her veins as she approached.

But as she drew closer, a knot formed in the pit of her stomach, a sense of unease creeping into her thoughts like tendrils of mist on a foggy morning. Damian was engaged in conversation with a girl with black hair that shimmered with a deep purple, their laughter floating on the air like delicate petals adrift on a gentle breeze. Marinette's steps faltered, her gaze fixed on the scene before her, a gnawing sensation of apprehension taking root within her chest.

This must be Damian’s first crush that he mentioned. Raven.

Observing Damian and Raven together, Marinette couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. Their easy camaraderie, the way Damian's eyes sparkled in Raven's presence — it all felt too familiar, too reminiscent of a time Marinette had hoped was behind them. A pang of realisation struck her with a force she hadn't anticipated, sending shockwaves of doubt and insecurity rippling through her.

In that moment, clarity descended upon Marinette like a sudden storm, her heart lurching painfully as the truth dawned upon her. Damian must still harbour feelings for Raven, feelings that she had naively believed had long since faded into the recesses of his heart. The realisation hit her like a physical blow, leaving her breathless and reeling with the weight of it all.

Marinette was just a “good” friend. Again.

For a fleeting moment, Marinette considered confronting Damian then and there, demanding answers to questions she feared to ask. But as she watched them laugh and joke together, a sense of resignation settled over her like a heavy blanket, smothering the flicker of hope that had ignited within her chest from their private evenings spent together after school.

In a moment of selflessness born out of love, Marinette made a decision — a decision to sacrifice her own happiness for the sake of Damian's. With a heavy heart and trembling hands, she approached him, her voice barely above a whisper as she spoke the words that would change everything.

Intruding in on Damian’s talk with Raven, Marinette cleared her throat to gain his attention.

“I think we need to talk,” Marinette began, her voice trembling with emotion. Damian turned to her, confusion etched on his features, but Marinette could not bring herself to meet his gaze.

“I think... I think we should break up,” she continued, her words barely audible over the din of the crowd. Damian's expression faltered, a flicker of hurt crossing his features before he masked it with a stoic facade.

“Why?” He asked, his voice barely above a whisper. He was very caught off guard by this. Marinette swallowed hard, her throat tight with unshed tears.

“I... I fell for someone else,” she replied, her voice barely a whisper as she avoided Damian's gaze. It was a lie, a falsehood spun from the depths of her despair, but Marinette could not bring herself to utter the truth. She hated liars and now she was one.

Damian's stomach twisted with a gnawing sense of unease, a feeling he couldn't quite place. Something about Marinette's words didn't ring true, didn't align with the truth he had come to know. But before he could voice his doubts, Marinette was already turning away, her steps faltering as she retreated from his side.

As Marinette disappeared into the crowd, Damian was left standing alone, his mind awash with confusion and uncertainty. He wanted to chase after her, to demand answers to questions that burned like wildfire in his mind. But something held him back, a sense of foreboding that lingered in the air like a ghostly spectre.

Raven watched from the sidelines, her heart heavy with a mixture of guilt and sorrow. She had witnessed the entire exchange between Damian and Marinette, her keen eyes picking up on the subtle nuances of their interaction. And as she observed Damian's pained expression, a pang of empathy washed over her like a crashing wave.

She knew all too well the depths of Damian's feelings, the lingering echoes of a love that had once burned bright but had since been extinguished by the cruel hand of Fate. Damian had not looked at anyone with such longing since... well, since her.

The realisation struck Raven like a bolt of lightning, illuminating the shadows of her own heart with a stark clarity. She had always known that Damian had once harboured feelings for her, feelings that she had tried desperately to ignore, to bury beneath layers of denial and self-imposed isolation because she was immature and unready to face those demons.

But seeing the pain etched on Damian's face brought everything into sharp focus, forcing Raven to confront the truth that she had long sought to avoid. She had hurt him back then, deeply and irreparably, and now she bore witness to the consequences of her actions.

And the most heartbreaking part of it all? Damian didn’t even recognize his emotions for the little blue-haired girl. Despite often speaking of Marinette with a soft smile and a twinkle in his green eyes, Damian remained oblivious to the depth of his own feelings.

Chapter Text

chapter xi: last night you left my heart on the floor

The next day found Marinette avoiding Damian like the Bubonic Plague and it did not settle well with Damian.

Thus far, he had been unable to eat anything for breakfast or lunch, his stomach tied up in knots. He had bitten his nails down to the quick and began picking at the skin around the cuticles. His leg was shaking up and down obnoxiously.

Everytime, he went near Marinette, as soon as she saw him, she would dart off elsewhere.

Despite Jon's advice to give Marinette her space, Damian found himself unable to shake the nagging feeling of unease that lingered in his mind. As he wandered the halls of the school, his thoughts were consumed by questions and doubts, each one gnawing at him with increasing intensity.

Why was Marinette avoiding him? What had he done to cause her to retreat so suddenly? And perhaps most troubling of all, what if she had discovered his true feelings for her, the ones he had tried so desperately to keep hidden?

The uncertainty gnawed at Damian's insides, fueling a sense of restlessness that he couldn't seem to shake. With each passing moment, his frustration grew, until finally, he could bear it no longer.

Determined to confront Marinette and demand answers, Damian set off in search of her, his mind racing with a jumble of conflicting emotions.

The sound of Marinette's tears echoing from the bathroom halted Damian in his tracks, his heart sinking at the realisation of her distress. As he stood there, torn between his desire for answers and his concern for her well-being, a wave of empathy washed over him.

If Marinette was truly so upset about breaking up with him and being with her beloved, wouldn’t she be happier? Damian couldn’t shake the nagging doubt that lingered in his mind. Perhaps there was more to this situation than met the eye.

With a heavy sigh, Damian made a decision. Pushing aside his own feelings of hurt and confusion, he resolved to put Marinette's needs first. Whatever the reason for her tears, he knew that she needed his support now more than ever.

Steeling himself, Damian approached the bathroom door, his footsteps hesitant but determined. As he reached out to knock, he couldn't help but wonder what he would find on the other side. But one thing was certain: no matter what, he would be there for Marinette, ready to offer her the comfort and reassurance she needed.

He knocked. “Marinette? It’s Damian, are you okay? I saw you come in here?”

“D-Damian?” She seemed to stutter, “G-Go away! I d-don’t w-want to see you!”

Damian's heart sank at Marinette's response, but he refused to give up so easily. Taking a deep breath to steady himself, he pressed on, determined to break through the walls she had erected around herself.

“Marinette, I understand that you're upset, but shutting me out won't solve anything,” Damian said, his voice gentle yet firm. “Please, let me help you. Whatever it is that's bothering you, we can face it together.”

There was a moment of tense silence, broken only by the sound of Marinette's uneven breathing. Damian could sense her hesitation, her internal struggle playing out in the space between them.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Marinette's voice came, soft and tremulous. “I... I just need some time, Damian. Please, just... go.”

Despite the ache in his chest, Damian knew that pushing her further would only make things worse. With a heavy heart, he reluctantly backed away from the bathroom door, giving Marinette the space she so clearly needed.

“Alright, Marinette,” he said quietly, his words tinged with a hint of sadness. “I'll give you the space you're asking for. But please remember, I'm here for you whenever you're ready to talk. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything.”

With that, Damian turned and walked away, leaving Marinette alone with her thoughts and her tears. As he made his way down the hallway, a sense of helplessness washed over him, mingled with a stubborn determination to do whatever it took to help Marinette find peace.

That night, Damian sought solace in confiding everything that had unfolded to his older brother. From the inception of the lie to the abrupt end of the charade, Damian recounted each detail with a heavy heart. Despite his frustration and confusion, he found himself grappling with questions that Richard seemed to hold the answers to, yet he remained reticent to divulge them fully.

As Damian recounted the events of the day to his older brother, he couldn't help but feel a sense of frustration and confusion gnawing at him. Richard listened intently, his expression unreadable as Damian poured out his heart, laying bare the turmoil that had consumed him since Marinette's abrupt departure.

“And then she just... pushed me away,” Damian concluded, his voice tinged with a mixture of sadness and disbelief. “I don't understand, Dick. Why would she do that? What did I do wrong?”

Richard's gaze softened, sympathy flickering in his eyes as he reached out to place a comforting hand on Damian's shoulder. “Hey, baby bird, you didn't do anything wrong,” he reassured him gently. “Sometimes, people just need space to sort through their own feelings. It doesn't mean they don't care about you.”

Damian frowned, his brows knitting together in frustration. “But I want to help her, Dick. I want to be there for her, like she was there for me.”

Richard offered him a small, understanding smile. “And you will be, Damian. But sometimes, the best way to help someone is to give them the space they need to figure things out on their own. Trust me, Marinette will come to you when she's ready.”

Damian nodded, though he still felt a twinge of uncertainty nagging at him. “I just wish I knew what was going on in her head,” he admitted quietly.

Richard squeezed his shoulder reassuringly. “I know, little brother. But sometimes, the answers we seek aren't always clear. All we can do is be patient and wait for them to reveal themselves in time.”

“If she broke up with me to be with her beloved, then why doesn’t she already have her happy ending?” Damian pondered aloud.

Richard's gaze held a knowing twinkle. “Baby bird, perhaps she hasn't reached her happy ending yet. Maybe she believes her 'beloved' doesn't reciprocate her feelings. Have you considered that?”

“I have not, but how could Marinette’s beloved not reciprocate? Marinette is extraordinary and deserves all the happiness life can give her. If her beloved does not reciprocate her feelings, then I must find out why… Starting with finding out who her beloved is.” Damian began to walk away from Richard before turning and hugging the older man. “...Thank you for your advice, Richard. It was very sound.”

As Damian walked towards his bedroom with a newfound determination, Richard, in the background, could be heard exclaiming, “Did anyone see that?! Is that on camera?! Barbara!”

Damian smirked, knowing he had disconnected the cameras in the family room for that very reason.

Chapter Text

chapter xii: mr. perfectly fine

After two weeks, Damian was prepared to find out who Marinette’s beloved was and confront them, even if it turned out to be a complete imbecile. He just had to ask Marinette who it was, one more time.

Damian, with his assassin training, managed to sneak up behind Marinette on a Friday when she was alone in the hallway after class had already ended. It appeared she was on her way to her locker when he caught her.

“Marinette, how are you?” Damian asked casually.

Marinette squeaked in surprise, “D-Damian… I have been fine.”

“Why are you still not with your beloved?” Straight to the point then.

“Because he’s taken,” she whispered cryptically.

What creature would have the strength to deny Marinette her happy ending?

“Marinette, please tell me who it is? I would like to try and help.”

“I won’t tell you his real name, but my friends call him La Rose Noire, or the Black Rose, for his personality.” With that, she stomped away from him to head home.

He easily caught up with her. “Wait up, let me take you home.”

“That is not necessary…” She softened, “...But thank you for the offer.”

They made it to the outside doors and it appeared to be raining.

“It’s storming. You don’t have an umbrella, do you?” Damian sighed, “Come on, I’m not gonna let you get soaked on your way home.”

“I’ll be fine.”

“Just let me drive you, stubborn woman!” He cried out.

In the end, he drove her home and on the drive, she asked where Raven was.

“Raven? Back with her family,” he told her earnestly. “She’s back home with Cy… her boyfriend.”

Marinette sucked in a breath of surprise. So Damian was still single and was caught in the same situation as her, pining for a love that will never be.

Marinette stayed quiet the rest of the trip, just thinking about everything and as she was unbuckling her seatbelt, Damian put his hand on top of hers.

“Whoever La Rose Noire is, he sounds like you deserve much better.” Damian half smiled for her benefit.

“He is better,” she whispered in his defence. “He’s the best crush I could’ve asked for.”

“If he was, he would be here for you then.”

“He is! Right now!” Marinette's voice grew frantic, scratching from the high pitch.

“He… is?” Damian looked around, but did not see anyone else in the car. 

“That’s all I have to say on the matter,” Marinette squeaked out before she rushed out of his car and up the porch steps to her door. She waved goodbye to Damian.

Marinette's hurried departure left Damian deep in thought, pondering the enigmatic figure of La Rose Noire and what he meant to her. As he sat in his car, the rain pattering against the windows, Damian couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered in the air. He replayed their conversation in his mind, trying to unravel the mystery surrounding Marinette's elusive crush.

Despite her attempt to brush off the topic, Damian sensed there was more to Marinette's feelings than she let on. The way her voice trembled when she spoke of La Rose Noire hinted at a deeper connection, one that she may not fully understand herself.

With a sigh, Damian realised that Marinette's heart was a puzzle he couldn't solve, at least not yet. But he was determined to uncover the truth, not just for his own curiosity, but to ensure Marinette's happiness.

As he drove away from Marinette's house, the weight of unanswered questions weighed heavily on Damian's mind.

Chapter Text

chapter viii: sittin' 'round waiting for confessions of love

On Wednesday, Marinette found herself engulfed in a whirlwind of emotions as she second-guessed her decision to break up with Damian. The events of the past few weeks replayed in her mind like a relentless loop, each moment scrutinised for signs of a mistake.

As she sat in her room, surrounded by the comforting embrace of her sketchbooks and sewing materials, Marinette couldn't shake the feeling of uncertainty that gnawed at her insides. Was breaking up with Damian the right thing to do? Had she made a colossal error in judgement, driven by fear and insecurity?

She knew that their relationship was supposed to be fake, a mere façade crafted to navigate the complexities of high school dynamics. But somewhere along the way, amidst the chaos of their charade, Marinette had fallen for Damian Wayne, the enigmatic boy with a heart of gold hidden beneath layers of aloofness.

Now, faced with the consequences of her feelings, Marinette grappled with a torrent of emotions. She berated herself for allowing her heart to betray her, for succumbing to the allure of a forbidden love that was never meant to be. But try as she might to push away her feelings, they stubbornly persisted, refusing to be silenced.

In the quiet solitude of her room, Marinette allowed herself to wallow in self-doubt and worry, each passing moment amplifying the weight of her decision. She wondered if Damian felt the same turmoil that churned within her, if he too questioned the validity of their breakup.

But amidst the storm of her emotions, a glimmer of hope flickered in Marinette's heart. Despite the pain and uncertainty, she couldn't ignore the undeniable connection she shared with Damian. She couldn’t ignore that he had questioned her to find out why she was still unhappy.

Perhaps, just perhaps, their story was far from over, with the possibility of a new beginning lingering on the horizon.

Marinette FaceTimed with her maman and asked for advice.

“Just wait for him to decide for himself, Marinette,” she wisely advised. “You’ve done the hard part and told him the truth.”

Marinette worried her lip between her teeth.

“Marinette, you did tell him in exact words that you like him, correct?” Her maman asked, knowing her daughter’s lack of expressing feelings well.

Marinette groaned falling back against her mountain of pillows that surrounded her bed. “Not exactly… I may have just implied that he was the one I was talking about and then ran.”

Marinette's mother chuckled softly through the screen, her eyes filled with warmth and understanding. "Oh, ma chérie, it sounds like you're in quite the predicament."

Marinette buried her face in her hands, feeling a flush of embarrassment creep up her cheeks. "I know, maman. I just... I didn't know how to say it. What if I made a mistake by not being more direct?"

Her mother's smile was reassuring. "You followed your heart, Marinette. And sometimes, that's all we can do. Trust in yourself and trust in Damian to come to his own conclusions."

"But what if he doesn't feel the same way?" Marinette's voice wavered with uncertainty.

"Then you'll know, my dear. But until then, have faith and be patient. Love has a way of finding its own path, even in the most unexpected ways."

Marinette nodded, taking comfort in her mother's words. "Thank you, maman. I'll try to be patient and see what happens."

"Good girl. Remember, I'm always here for you, no matter what." With a final smile, Marinette's mother bid her farewell, leaving Marinette with a sense of calm amidst the storm of her emotions.

Marinette, left alone to her own devices, thought maybe a letter would be best. To get it all down and out of her system. Yeah, she thought, if I write it all down, and he and I discuss it, then I can get over it.

As Marinette sat at her desk, the soft glow of her desk lamp casting a warm light around her, she took out a piece of paper and a pen, her heart racing with a mixture of nerves and determination. With each stroke of the pen, she poured her thoughts and feelings onto the page, the words flowing freely as if they had been waiting to be set free.

“My dearest Damian,” she began, her hand trembling slightly as she formed each letter. “I hope this letter finds you well, though I fear it may bring some confusion and uncertainty to your heart.”

She paused, taking a deep breath to steady herself before continuing. “I want to be honest with you, Damian, because you deserve nothing less. The truth is, these past few weeks have been a whirlwind of emotions for me, and amidst it all, I've come to realise something profound.”

Marinette's heart pounded in her chest as she laid bare her feelings on the page, her hand moving almost of its own accord. “I've come to care for you deeply, Damian, in a way that I never expected. Your kindness, your strength, your unwavering determination... they've all captured my heart in ways I never thought possible.”

Tears pricked at the corners of Marinette's eyes as she penned her final words, her emotions spilling over onto the page. “I understand if you can't return these feelings, Damian, and I won't hold it against you. But I couldn't let another day go by without telling you the truth. You mean more to me than words can express, and I'll always cherish the moments we've shared, whether as friends or something more. I hope the best for you and Raven. Love, Marinette.”

The next morning, Marinette discreetly slipped the letter into Damian's locker, her pulse racing with anticipation as she imagined his reaction upon reading her heartfelt confession. However, as the day wore on, it became increasingly clear that Damian hadn't noticed the letter at all, or perhaps he was purposefully ignoring it for reasons unknown.

Unbeknownst to Marinette, Damian had been bombarded with a barrage of love letters ever since their fake breakup, and he had grown accustomed to discarding them without a second thought. Each day, he would nonchalantly scoop up the pile of letters and deposit them into the nearest trash can, oblivious to their contents.

Unfortunately, because Marinette hadn't included her name on the outside of the envelope, Damian assumed her letter was just another anonymous declaration of affection from one of his admirers. The realisation hit Marinette like a punch to the gut as she watched him casually dispose of her carefully crafted words, her disappointment palpable.

Despite the sting of rejection, Marinette resolved to remain strong. She had put her heart on the line and now had her answer, even if it wasn't the one she had hoped for. With a heavy sigh, she squared her shoulders and reminded herself that she deserves someone who will appreciate her for who she was, letter or no letter.

Chapter Text

chapter xiv: you can hear it in the silence

Damian's frustration simmered beneath the surface, a silent rage that gnawed at him relentlessly. He couldn't shake the feeling of emptiness that consumed him whenever he glanced at his phone, only to find no messages from Marinette. The absence of her presence in his life was like a gaping void, a deafening silence that echoed in his mind.

He loathed the way her absence lingered in every corner of his existence, haunting him with memories of their shared moments. He missed the sound of her laughter, the sparkle in her eyes, and the warmth of her touch. It was as if a part of him was missing, lost in the void left by her absence.

And then, like a sudden revelation, it hit him. Dick's words echoed in his mind, urging him to consider the possibility that Marinette's beloved might not reciprocate her feelings. It was a notion that Damian had dismissed at first, unable to comprehend how anyone could fail to see Marinette's worth.

But now, as he grappled with his own feelings, Damian realised the truth. He loved Marinette. He had fallen for her, hard and fast, without even realising it. It was a revelation that left him reeling, his heart pounding in his chest as he struggled to come to terms with the depth of his emotions.

In the aftermath of their breakup, Damian had found himself grappling with emotions he had long since buried – emotions he had hoped never to confront again.

Yet, amidst the turmoil of his newfound realisation, Damian found a sense of clarity. He knew now what he had to do. He couldn't bear to see Marinette unhappy, even if it meant she was with someone else. All he wanted was her happiness, her laughter, her smile.

With a newfound determination, Damian made a silent vow to himself. He would do whatever it took to ensure Marinette's happiness, even if it meant stepping aside and helping her find her "leading man." It was a selfless gesture, born out of love and a desire to see Marinette thrive.

And so, with a resolute heart, Damian set out on his mission. He would be there for Marinette, supporting her from the shadows, guiding her towards the happiness she deserved. He would be her silent guardian, her steadfast ally, her unwavering support.

Damian's determination to help Marinette find her happiness drove him to shadow her every move within the school's corridors. His keen eyes scanned the crowds, searching for any signs of the elusive figure known as La Rose Noire. He observed Marinette's interactions with her classmates, noting the subtle nuances in her demeanour and the fleeting glances she exchanged with others.

As he trailed behind her, Damian couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at him. He was stepping into uncharted territory, delving into the complexities of Marinette's personal life in a way he had never dared before. Yet, despite the uncertainty that loomed ahead, Damian remained steadfast in his resolve to help her.

Hours passed, and still, Damian found no trace of La Rose Noire. It was as if the mysterious figure had vanished into thin air, leaving behind only whispers and rumours in their wake. Frustration bubbled within Damian, mingling with a sense of urgency to uncover the truth.

Perhaps it was someone from her past in Paris?

She never really spoke of her time there, despite the fact she grew up in the City of Lights.

Through Damian’s sleuthing, he found her reporter friend, the one Marinette gave his number to, in his threads of text.

“Need assistance with something,” he typed swiftly, appending, “Regarding Marinette.”

Moments later, his phone buzzed with an incoming call, catching Damian by surprise. “Is this Alya Cesaire, Marinette's acquaintance?” He answered promptly.

A sigh emanated from the other end. “I've already wrapped up my interviews with your father and the Lane-Kents. I assumed you'd want nothing to do with me after that.”

“Marinette is currently feeling disheartened, and I am determined to lift her spirits. I seek your help in locating La Rose Noire,” Damian declared with conviction.

She cackled on the other end, her amusement evident. “Oh, sweetie, you are a lot closer to La Rose Noire than you think.”

“What does that mean?” Damian questioned, his tone edged with frustration.

Cesaire sighed, her voice firm. “It means, Rich Boy, to take a good long look in the mirror. Now come back to me when you're serious about making my girl happy. Understand?”

Damian found himself nodding, even though he knew she couldn't see him. “Understood.”

The phone call abruptly ended, leaving Damian to stand before the closest mirror in his bedroom.

“Take a good long look in the mirror, huh?” He stared at his reflection, studying the features that stared back at him. Beige, sun-kissed skin framed by dark hair, eyes that held a depth like the jungle, and ears that stuck out ever so slightly.

As realization dawned upon him, Damian couldn't help but feel a rush of emotions flooding his senses. Marinette loved him back — her mysterious crush, La Rose Noire, was none other than him. The revelation filled him with a mixture of elation and trepidation, knowing that the solution to their complicated situation lay within his grasp.

With newfound determination, Damian began to devise a plan to mend the rift between them and pave the way for a future where they could openly acknowledge their feelings for each other. He knew that simply confessing his identity as La Rose Noire wouldn't be enough; they needed to address the underlying issues that had led to their misunderstanding and subsequent breakup.

First, Damian resolved to have a heartfelt conversation with Marinette, where he would lay bare his feelings and express his desire to make amends. He understood the importance of honesty and transparency in rebuilding trust, and he was prepared to confront any obstacles that stood in their way.

Additionally, Damian recognized the significance of respecting Marinette's feelings and giving her the space she needed to process everything. He vowed to be patient and understanding, knowing that their journey back to each other wouldn't happen overnight.

Armed with a newfound sense of purpose, Damian set out to win back Marinette's heart and rebuild their relationship on a foundation of trust, communication, and mutual respect. He was determined to prove to her that they were meant to be together, and he wouldn't let anything stand in their way.

With each step he took towards reconciliation, Damian felt a sense of hope and optimism blossoming within him. He knew that their love was worth fighting for, and he was willing to do whatever it took to ensure that they found their way back to each other.

Chapter Text

chapter xv:  i love you, ain’t that the worst thing you’ve ever heard?

Damian crumpled what had to be his hundredth letter he tried writing to Marinette. This was impossible. How did people do this?

When he confronted his crush on Raven, he straight up asked her if she liked him back and would consider dating him. Of course, she said no and they went back to being friends. But that hurt still resonated in Damian. Pumping him full of the fear of rejection without Scarecrow’s gas in sight.

But as he reflected on his experiences, Damian realised that he couldn't let fear hold him back from pursuing happiness. Marinette deserved to know how he felt, and he owed it to himself to be honest about his emotions. Taking a deep breath, Damian resolved to push past his insecurities and find the courage to confess his love to Marinette.

Sitting down at his desk, Damian picked up his pen and began to write once more. This time, instead of focusing on the fear of rejection, he poured his heart and soul into his words. He expressed his admiration for Marinette, detailing the ways she had captured his heart and inspired him to be a better person.

With each word he wrote, Damian felt a weight lift off his shoulders. He realised that his love for Marinette was too powerful to be overshadowed by fear, and he was determined to show her just how much she meant to him.

After finishing the letter, Damian read it over one last time, ensuring that every sentiment was expressed with sincerity and clarity. With a sense of resolve, he sealed the letter in an envelope and made his way to Marinette's house, ready to finally confess his love and face whatever response awaited him.

As he stood outside her door with black roses and a nervous smile, Damian took a deep breath and knocked, his heart pounding with anticipation. Whatever the outcome, he knew that he had taken a leap of faith and followed his heart, and that was something to be proud of.

Lois Lane answered the door and beckoned him in, telling him that Marinette was just upstairs in her bedroom and seemed like she could use some cheering up.

“Marinette,” the young woman knocked on the door clad in different fashion designs, “You have a guest.” She turned to Damian, “Go on in and I’ll make some refreshments, okay?”

Inside Marinette’s room, Damian took in the pink… everything. Everything was a shade of some kind of pink hue. Undeterred by this, Damian cleared his throat and Marinette turned around to see him, eyes widening comically.

“D-Damian! What are you doing here?” She questioned.

Damian stood in the doorway, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination coursing through him. He took a step forward, closing the distance between them as he met Marinette's gaze with unwavering intensity.

“I came to see you,” he replied, his voice steady despite the turmoil in his heart. “I wanted to talk to you about something important.”

Marinette's brows furrowed in confusion, her curiosity piqued by Damian's cryptic words. “What is it?” she asked, her tone tinged with apprehension.

Taking a deep breath, Damian pulled the hidden flowers from around his back and reached into his pocket and pulled out the letter he had written earlier. He held the letter out to Marinette, his hand trembling ever so slightly.

“I wrote this for you,” he said softly. “It's... it's a letter. Inside expressing... expressing how I feel about you.”

Marinette's eyes widened in surprise as she took the letter from Damian's outstretched hand. She looked down at it, her heart pounding in her chest as she realised what it was.

“A letter?” She echoed, her voice barely above a whisper, remembering the letter she had left for him previously.

Damian nodded, his gaze never leaving Marinette's face. “Yes. A letter... expressing and declaring my feelings for you.”

Marinette's hands shook as she opened the envelope and began to read Damian's words. With each sentence, her heart swelled with emotion, and tears welled up in her eyes.

As she reached the end of the letter, Marinette looked up at Damian, her eyes shining with unshed tears. “Damian,” she whispered, her voice choked with emotion. “I... I don't know what to say.”

Damian took a step closer to her, his heart pounding in his chest. “You don't have to say anything,” he said softly. “I just... I just needed you to know how I feel. That's all.”

Damian reached out and gently brushed a tear from Marinette's cheek. Their eyes met, and in that moment, everything else faded away. All that mattered was the connection between them, the unspoken bond that had grown stronger with each passing day.

Marinette nodded, her throat tight with emotion. “Thank you,” she whispered, her voice barely audible, “But I love you too, you idiot.”

Without another word, Marinette leaned in, aiming for a kiss. However, their eagerness got the better of them, resulting in an accidental collision of teeth that elicited a sharp “Ow—” from both of them.

“Oops, sorry!” Marinette apologised quickly, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

Damian winced slightly, but his expression softened as he looked at Marinette in the dim lighting of her bedroom. “That’s okay. We can... try again, if you wish?”

Marinette smirked playfully. “Oh, I definitely wish…”

She reached for Damian's black tie, this time with more care, pulling him closer as their lips met in a tender caress. When they parted, Marinette gazed into Damian's eyes with sincerity.

“I love you,” she confessed.

A goofy smile spread across Damian's face in response. “I… love you too, habibti.”

“Does that really mean ‘dear’ in Arabic?” She wondered aloud.

“Yes and no. It also means… it means ‘beloved.’”

“Aww, see, Damian. I knew you cared, you big ol’ teddy bear!”

Damian’s resulting blush had her convulsing with laughter and filled with love.

Together, they knew through the strength of their bond, they could face anything.