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tosikoarts · 4 years ago

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SFW Alphabet | Sugimoto Saichi

You can check tosikowrites tag for more. Hood guy is next in line. Warning: there’s a lot under the cut.

A = Affection (How affectionate are they? How do they show affection?)

The more cruelty you encounter in life, the more efforts you put into bringing something to oppose it and establish the balance. Perhaps, this is why Sugimoto is so caring in relation to his partner. He treats them with warm affection as he does with Asirpa or Shiraishi. They are his friend and one of his second family, not by blood but by spirit.

At the very beginning, Sugimoto is terribly awkward: to hide the blush, he has to pull his favorite cap directly over his eyes and turn away. If he does something and the person he is interested in is watching, everything will surely fall apart. It does not matter how good Sugimoto is in his work, he is cursed to disgrace himself in front of them. But, on the other hand, he is so happy to see their broad smile and hear them burst into laughter. That’s why he loves to sneak up and mercilessly tickle them until their eyes fill up with tears.

Sugimoto rarely uses words to show his affection, at least not in a classical way. “I care about you”, “I like you”? No. First of all, if he ever tried to say that, Asirpa or Shiraishi or (worse) Ogata would pop out of nowhere and ruin the moment. Second of all, why be so trivial, when you can veil the same meanings behind the intimate conversations about life and death, war and peace, friends and enemies? Sometimes he inserts phrases with implications that make sense only to Sugimoto himself or someone close to him. You know, that would be nice to share dried persimmons after gold hunt ends…

Oh, the other special way of showing his love is being dumb together! It's always nice to mess around, prank someone (try not to get shot tho), simply grimace and stick tongue out to show cruel world that you don’t care.

B = Best friend (What would they be like as a best friend? How would the friendship start?)

Time spent with Sugimoto is divided in three equal parts: in first part you need to get him out of trouble, in second part he has to bail you out, and in third you both stuck in the weird situation in which role of savior is passed to someone else. Pleasant bonus: everything ends well with no people harmed. Usually.

A type of friend that will follow you through the thick and thin. Even in questionable situation, Sugimoto will stay by your side. It is important for him that person remained true to their promises as well and stuck by him no matter what happens.

With a wild and unpredictable life, Sugimoto needs friendships that do not require constant contact. One day he disappears to knock on your door months later but established ties have to stay there. Every reunion ends up in huge celebration with consequences of The Hangover.

How would the friendship start? There is a plenty of options but the most possible ones are: a) Sugimoto’s group stays in the new city and person happens to be one to host them; b) Sugimoto manages to lost all of his belongings including clothes and money and person happens to pass by. Second one is more likely

C = Cuddles (Do they like to cuddle? How would they cuddle?)

“I can't protect you without holding a sword. I can't embrace you while holding a sword.” This proverb works well with gun and riffle too. Sugimoto prefers to cuddle only in complete safety when there’s no chance for uninvited blood-thirsty guests to interrupt them. Prefers sitting positions in which he can rest his chin on the top of their head and, also, pet their back. He is such a sucker for good cuddle session that he can’t stop smiling all the way through.

D = Domestic (Do they want to settle down? How are they at cooking and cleaning?)

Yes, sure! Small cozy house surrounded by fruit trees overlooking the river is his little secret dream. All Sugimoto wants is sitting on the sun-warmed porch with loved one, holding hands, fingers intertwined, no poisonous thoughts on the mind. He is mediocre cook, knows some recipes but like any soldier cooking they lack finesse. There are few favorite dishes he rotates like miso soups, udon, fried fish, and onigiri. He doesn’t care about cleaning so you can expect bare minimum in sweeping and washing dishes.

E = Ending (If they had to break up with their partner, how would they do it?)

He doesn’t seem like a person who takes it easy so ending relationship is something he is afraid to do. Hell, running under the rain of bullets and blood wasn’t that hard. No matter what words he chooses result will be the same: they will be hurt, they will hate him, they won’t want to see him ever again, and conscience will gnaw Sugimoto for his harshness. He just takes one deep breath and spills everything in under the minute, ending monologue with a deep bow and “I am so extremely sorry” in a loud desperate voice.

After years, Sugimoto keeps their dimming photo as a reminder of all they had. If their passes cross again, he won’t be able say a word because of a lump in the throat. He may fall for them one more time.

F = Fiance(e) (How do they feel about commitment? How quick would they want to get married?)

After six months of relationship, Sugimoto is ready to slip some questions about the marriage in the dialogue and ask them about the vision of future together. If they are positive, he would propose on the first anniversary. If not, that’s okay too, he can wait until they are ready for a next step. When the day comes, everybody knows about proposal. They whisper and giggle behind Sugimoto’s back because he looks like a mess, happy grinning mess, walking from side to side with the most expensive pawnshop ring clenched in his fist.

G = Gentle (How gentle are they, both physically and emotionally?)

Hurting someone he loves is Sugimoto’s worst nightmare. His whole being was dragged through hell and back and sometimes hidden pain can splash out on loved ones. You can physically feel weird aggressive aura coming from him in those rare vulnerable moments. That’s when Sugimoto surpasses emotional baggage and presses them tightly against his chest. No soldier can be soft baby, not after what they’ve seen, but Sugimoto does his best to be gentle with them in every way.

H = Hugs (Do they like hugs? How often do they do it? What are their hugs like?)

Sugimoto uses hugs as greeting, as comforting, as apology. Wherever possible, he will pull his loved one in hug. They are very warm and tight, accompanied by stroking on the back and pressing his cheek to the other person’s cheek. Truly, in the beginning you can feel how he trembles with joyful excitement and holds himself off in order not to come off too needy. After a long time apart Sugimoto may just knock them down in bear hug, completely forgetting about hectic world around.

I = I love you (How fast do they say the L-word?)

Around the same time he is ready to propose so half of the year. However, Sugimoto never says the coveted three words aloud, replacing them with simpler ones “Well, yes, I like them very much... I really like them. Well, you know” when talking with others. At some point Asirpa will surely begin to actively push him towards confession, as well as Shiraishi. It all turns into the game in which they both keep an eye on Sugimoto and his loved one: Asirpa keeps swearing in ainuic because Sugimoto is such stupid indecisive sisam, and Shiraishi gives him thumbs up like. Bro. Just do it already.

J = Jealousy (How jealous do they get? What do they do when they’re jealous?)

You don’t want to make that man jealous. If he notices anyone hitting on his loved one, he’ll by their side in an instant, frowning, with small dark wrinkle between the eyebrows that does not bode well. Sugimoto immediately strikes a confident pose between possible rival and significant other, jokes passively-aggressively, and if this poor soul insists, he will take them out to have Mano-a-Mano moment. On the other side if it’s loved one who acts flirtatious Sugimoto will act childishly. Almost petty. Oh you a want a kiss? Go ask that man you talked to type of petty. He doesn’t really mean it but he definitely expects both explanation and apology.

K = Kisses (What are their kisses like? Where do they like to kiss you? Where do they like to be kissed?)

Sugimoto’s kisses vary from slow and passionate to fast and shy depending on the situation. Through the day trying to avoid unwanted attention he may give them peck on the nose or cheek. In more intimate atmosphere Sugimoto doesn’t care where to kiss. He just does. From head to toes and all that jazz. Taking into account how many scars there are on Sugimoto’s body and how sensitive they can be (nerve damage is a bitch) he loves to be kissed along these darkened lines. Gently and with cautious.

L = Little ones (How are they around children?)

Initially, when encountering child, Sugimoto is overwhelmed with enthusiasm. It slowly dies down when he realizes how capricious kids can be and how loud they can scream. He tries his best with babies (fails) but has more luck with older children, like Asirpa’s age because, thankfully to acquired experience, there is already a rough understanding of their psyche. Anyway, Sugimoto still needs someone to reminder him that not everybody is so independent, and smart, and self-sufficient. And, yes, it’s one of his dreams to become father, and not just father, but amazing, proud, cool dad. He will 100% cry when his kid makes first steps, says first dada, and smiles at him too.

M = Morning (How are mornings spent with them?)

Even after Sugimoto decided to settle down, his heart desires adventure. No matter how lazy the morning is, which, incidentally, is not often, he will find a moment to offer to go somewhere. Incredibly beautiful sandy coasts and crystal clear water beckon to the south, Kanazawa looms with magnificent castles and temples in the west, the capital of Tokyo beats with life in the east. North is always calling, north is much more than a direction. In the mornings, Sugimoto likes to talk about the future, about plans, while breakfast is getting cold in the pot. He never leaves home without a morning kiss goodbye.

N = Night (How are nights spent with them?)

Usually Sugimoto comes home tired so he needs time alone, but after this, he is ready to start household chores while talking about his day. He likes to embellish events to make his loved one have a good laugh. Otherwise, evenings with Sugimoto are spend on the fresh air: he is one of those people who jump into the yet cold river to open the swimming season, or go look for mushrooms in cool weather to enjoy the forest view.

When one of the acquaintances pops up on the horizon, he always goes with them and his loved one to a diner for a strong drink and latest news. Sometimes such nights last longer than expected. Tipsy merry Sugimoto stops right on the doorstep of the house, turns around, crushes on the ground, and invites them to do the same. Does he remember the names of the constellations? No. Will he show off and introduce them to a loved one? Absolutely.

O = Open (When would they start revealing things about themselves? Do they say everything all at once or wait a while to reveal things slowly?)

Pretty open about his past from the beginning because he never had a dark mysterious background at the first place. Any questions you ask Sugimoto will answer with straight truth. Well, maybe, he’ll hold back some facts that may put person in danger or distress like extreme violent incidents from the army days. In addition, Sugimoto doesn’t need special moments of revelation to open up, he is just consistently outspoken.

P = Patience (How easily angered are they?)

In everyday life, Sugimoto appears laid-back, you need to try hard to piss him off. Little troubles don't bother him much, he quickly cools down if unforeseen situation occurs. However, once someone starts to bully his loved ones, his hair spikes up and the formidable Sugimoto the Immortal shows up. Trust me, he is not averse to shouting and kicking some ass.

Q = Quizzes (How much would they remember about you? Do they remember every little detail you mention in passing, or do they kind of forget everything?)

Either way he is inattentive or his memory is that bad but Sugimoto manages to forget almost everything about his loved one. It is not on purpose, you can see him listening very carefully to your words, but it happens. After conversation ends, his brain goes in “no thoughts, head empty” mode, and, no matter how long he stands in front of grandma’s flower stand, Sugimoto can’t remember your favorite flowers. Don’t start me on dates. Reminders the day before are essential if you don’t want to hear “Wait, what do you mean what day is it today?” on your anniversary.

R = Remember (What is their favorite moment in your relationship?)

First meeting. He giggles nervously when talking about it since not only Sugimoto got to show off in the buff but also brought menace in the form of 7th division on their place. Who knows what was more shameful? While apologizing for unfortunate inconveniences, Sugimoto felt a spark between them, subtle chemistry, that was growing stronger the longer he watched their lips moving. On the day of departure he pulled a cap lower and promised to see them again but this time he was going to bring something more pleasant than Tsurumi’s hellhounds.

S = Security (How protective are they? How would they protect you? How would they like to be protected?)

Sugimoto is as protective as a personal guardian. He is sensitive to a change in general atmosphere and can easily sense evil intentions even if person hides behind a mask of geniality. In that case, Sugimoto warns his loved one about his misgivings and refuses to leave their side. For example, he’ll be extra wary around Ogata and you can tell he is almost waiting for a mistake to stab him between the ribs. Sugimoto doesn’t expect to be protected by anyone but if they do shield him, he’ll have one more reason to be proud and give thanks to heaven for such amazing partner.

T = Try (How much effort would they put into dates, anniversaries, gifts, everyday tasks?)

With his hectic lifestyle, Sugimoto has no other option than to make every meeting special. There is not much he can do to surprise them with expensive gifts, like jewelry or clothes, but he can pick a modest bouquet for them or save unique things from endless journeys. Even if it’s just outdoor recreation or evening spent in each other's arms Sugimoto tries to make it unforgettable. If he remembers about anniversary (see Quizzes), he will involve other people in order to do something exceptional. As an absolute sweetheart, Sugimoto puts a lot of effort to make his partner happy, happier tomorrow that today, every day.

U = Ugly (What would be some bad habits of theirs?)

Do troubles follow Sugimoto wherever he goes or does he choose the path with the highest number of adventures? It doesn’t matter because either way his life is a mess consisting of dangerous ventures and questionable acquaintances. It may be fun in the beginning but if you are not ready for continuous strength tests and psychological thrillers, relationship with Sugimoto will become a pure torment.

In addition to this Sugimoto never makes plans for the future. He has assumptions about where he will be tomorrow and, possibly, the day after tomorrow but nothing more.

V = Vanity (How concerned are they with their looks?)

Sugimoto doesn’t give his looks a lot of thought. He tries to keep clothes in wearable condition and wash them from time to time, especially beloved scarf and cap, but if there are some spots on the outwear, Sugimoto won’t give that much attention. If we talk about overall appearance, uncountable scars do not bother him either. One more, one less, at some point you stop noticing their present, even on the face. Complement Sugimoto on how scars adorn a man and you’ll get a smug smirk in response.

W = Whole (Would they feel incomplete without you?)

So heartbroken and dejected that Sugimoto can’t contain himself and seeks confrontation with everybody around. No matter if they had to leave him or they were deceased, he seems to be on the edge all the time. Irritated. Overthinking. He looks for a time alone, subjects himself to extreme challenges to get all negative emotions out. Sugimoto gets attached easily, no wonder he feels so torn. Takes about three months to cool down and year more to stop thinking about them. If anyone dared to take significant other from Sugimoto the Immortal, he will find this person and make them pay. Sugimoto is merciless in his revenge.

X = Xtra (A random headcanon for them.)

Sugimoto has a clear understanding of his own mortality. Screaming lungs out doesn’t cancel it, layered wounds do not give him resistance as cumulative effect. So one of his wish is in case of his death during the skin-hunt, he doesn’t want anyone to bring this message to his loved one. It may seem cruel from one’s perspective, but he wants to support an established name of a warrior whom death itself could not defeat.

Y = Yuck (What are some things they wouldn’t like, either in general or in a partner?)

Unreasonable blind violence, both to people and animals, disgusts Sugimoto to the core. Protecting yourself from the attacking soldier, bandit, bear is one thing, justified and valid, but taking anger out on innocent stranger or scared animal that did nothing to deserve such suffering is too much. If person is also proud of it, they will receive unbelievable amount of backlash.

Egocentrism and mind-games. First one comes from the bitter experience. You can't expect the universe to revolve around you, there are millions of people, thousands of fates, and they all depend on each other, they work just because another one exist. Show him a person that acts like a center of the world and Sugimoto will run run run. Second one is tightly connected to egocentrism since to force world build around yourself, you have to force it. Often it’s done by manipulation. If person tries to have him wrapped around their finger, Sugimoto will confront them once. There won’t be a second time.

Z = Zzz (What is a sleep habit of theirs?)

Military orders are so ingrained in Sugimoto’s brains that his organism automatically shuts down at the same time every day. He wakes up at dawn, fresh and full of strength, and there’s not a chance he will fall asleep again.

Never remembers dreams and is thankful for this. He has no dreams but gloomy nightmares, filled with people who are no longer alive, sounds of firing canons and harrowing screams, bombed-out trenches and blackened bunkers. They force Sugimoto to jump up in bed in the middle of the night, covered in cold sweat, breathing like a cornered animal. At such moments, he checks for loved one by his side and watches their chest going up and down with each breath. It calms him down a little but not enough to put him back to sleep.

#golden kamuy #golden kamuy headcanon #golden kamuy imagine #saichi sugimoto #sugimoto saichi #tosikowrites

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chocoluckchipz · 5 years ago

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Dance with Me, Chaton - 27

Read it on A03, WattPad, FF.net

Written for @ladynoirjuly2019

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27. Comfort

Wednesday afternoon, Adrien stared at a rather impressive house just outside of Cannes. “So, let me get this straight, you own this luxurious, waterfront villa in one of the most sought-after parts of French Riviera?”

Plagg shook his head. “I don’t, but Tikki does. That’s her escape place from when I get too overbearing. Just like my Parlour, only more suitable to her taste.”

“Who are you guys?” Adrien asked. “Oil barons or something?”

Plagg chuckled. “Just your local dance instructors who happened to come from old-money families. Nothing spectacular. And why would you, mister rich boy, be surprised? Didn’t think anyone else could have money?”

Adrien shied away. “No, not that. I’m just… I didn’t expect you…?”

“I don’t look the part?”

Adrien glanced at Plagg’s baggy clothes and sticking in every direction hair. “Not really?”

Plagg laughed and motioned Adrien into the house. “Appearance isn’t everything, kid. Now, feel at home, don’t forget it’s Tikki’s baby. She’ll smother you in your sleep if you break something.”

Adrien nervously chuckled. “The way you talk about her… Are you sure you are in this marriage on your own will? She didn’t threaten you in, did she?”

Plagg snorted, then almost sung. "Tikki's the most incredible woman I've ever met, kid. Her quirks are what makes her so interesting and fun. Irresistible in a way. I’m sure Marinette has something too that you’d hate in others but love in her.”

A lopsided smile stretched Adrien’s lips. "She's so clumsy. It's adorable."

“There you go, kid. Now, stop this dopey look on your face so I can show you around and escape to relax for a bit before the food gets here.”

“You ordered something?”

“Back on the train. The best cuisine on the coast. Hustle, kid. I need to stretch on my lounge chair like yesterday.”

Plagg didn’t spend much time on guiding Adrien around. He quickly walked through the spacious living quarters, motioned towards the kitchen, balconies, mentioned they had their own strip of beach adjoint to the house and led Adrien to one of the guestrooms.

"You sleep here. I'm off to the lounge. Call me when the food arrives."

A moment later, Plagg was gone. Adrien placed his bag in his room and went to explore the house on his own. Apart from being just as spacious, it was a complete opposite of Plagg's apartment. While Plagg's pad was sleek and modern, somewhat intense, Tikki's villa invited one to relax. Mostly white and cream interior incorporated a few rich earthy undertones and featured a couple of sporadic red accent pieces throughout the space. Flowing, white sheers and an abundance of cushions on every surface imaginable softened the edges. Live plants brought the outdoors inside. Sun flooded every corner. Adrien had visited many richly decorated places in his life, but he’d never felt as cozy and relaxed in any of them as he did in this one.

The doorbell rang. Adrien went to answer. A delivery guy gave him a few bags with food and, after saying that it was already paid for, vanished. Adrien brought it to the kitchen, finding Plagg already pottering around for plates.

“Finally,” he muttered under his nose. “I’m starving.”

The food was delicious, Plagg hadn’t exaggerated about it being the best cuisine on the coast. Yet, after finishing his meal, Plagg stretched and mumbled under his nose. “Can’t wait for this exile to be over.”

Adrien snorted. “Exile? This doesn’t feel like it to me. Or is it the company that makes you want to escape back to the city?”

Plagg sent him a glare, pursuing his lips. ��It’s an exile because my Queen isn’t by my side. The company, though, is the only reason I agreed to come here alone voluntarily. You should be honoured.”

Adrien chuckled. “I am honoured. Thank you for sacrificing yourself for me to escape the mess I’ve created.”

“A mess indeed,” Plagg hummed. “Did he even tried to contact you at all after you left?”

“Nope. He sent the documents I asked for with Nathalie when she came to pick up the keys from my apartment. She told me they wired the compensation straight into Marinette’s account, but there is no way for me to check it—”

“She got it,” Plagg inserted. “Tikki wrote me a message this morning.”

“Oh. Good. I’m glad.”

“Marinette’s mad at you for that, by the way. Just so you know.”

“What? Why?”

“Something about not needing your help. I decided not to tell her you sent out her resumes and portfolio to every major fashion house yesterday, but I’m guessing she won’t like it, either.”

Adrien frowned. “I’m only trying to fix what I’ve done. Why would she be mad at me for that?”

“Don’t know,” Plagg said, standing up. “But you’re lucky we’re out of her reach for now. At least until Saturday.”

Adrien leaned back into his chair. “What’s happening on Saturday?”

“On Saturday, kid,” Plagg said with an overly satisfying voice. “We’re going back to Paris and debuting you at Kwami Kave.”

Adrien’s eyes blew wide. “What?”

Plagg groaned. “Do I really need to explain how this works? You are a smart kid, you can figure out this yourself. We go in there. You perform. They love you. Boom! You are in.”

Adrien shook his head. “Plagg, no. I can’t. I’m not ready yet.”

“That’s up to me to decide.”

“Seriously. There is so much more I need to learn from you. Even from what I’ve seen you doing—”

“No one said I’ll stop teaching you,” Plagg interrupted. “Marinette debuted years ago and Tikki still teaches her. Though at this point, they are more like partners than a teacher/student combo, but that’s not the point. The point is, kid, that you’re good enough to not embarrass me at the club. So, I’m debuting you, but our training will continue as before. Don’t worry about that. That’s a standard procedure,” Plagg puffed with a smile on his face. “I still have plenty of ways to torture you. Or did you think I’d let you go that easily?”

A smile tugged at Adrien’s lips as he watched Plagg. No matter how tough and cruel and grumpy he was pretending to be, with Plagg being the only one by Adrien’s side in all of this, there was no way Adrien would believe him to be that anymore. He was peculiar and eccentric, but Marinette was right, Plagg had a heart of gold.

“What about Marinette?” Adrien asked. “I doubt she’d be happy to see me there.”

Plagg huffed. “It isn’t her club. She can’t tell me who can join and who can’t.”

“No, it isn’t,” Adrien said. “But I can’t invade her safe space after what I’ve done. Not unless she wants me there. Can’t we postpone it for a few weeks? Until we make up?”

“Nope.” Plagg shook his head. “I’ve waited long enough already. Master Fu would think me an incompetent teacher if I won’t bring you in soon, and I, for once, care what Master Fu thinks.”

“What about Tikki? I doubt she’d approve—”

“No, kid. Can you stop this?” Plagg grumbled. “Don’t threaten me with my own wife.”

“I just—”

“No ‘I’-s, no ‘just’-s,” Plagg silenced him. “We’re going and that is final.”

Adrien sighed. He didn't want to argue with Plagg. He always seemed to have a good reason behind what he wanted to do, something Adrien couldn't see yet. That much he’d learned already. And it wasn't like Adrien didn't want to go. He did. He worked hard to get in. However, he wasn't sure Marinette was ready to see him yet. He stood up and walked to the window, focusing his sight on the waves of the ocean.

“Can you at least tell Tikki so she can warn Marinette?”

“You know what I don’t get?” Plagg stood behind Adrien. “You were so eager to talk to her, I had to keep you away. Why are you suddenly trying to avoid a meeting? What happened? Given up?”

“No way,” Adrien protested. “I just think you were right. I can’t push her before she’s ready, or I might end up losing her instead. You told me so yourself, didn’t you?”

Plagg hummed. “I did, didn’t I? And now I’m telling you we’re debuting you this Saturday and everything will be alright, or do you not trust me, kid?”

Adrien turned to Plagg. A smirk on his lips, kindness in his eyes, Plagg offered him a hand. “Deal?”

He probably shouldn’t have, but the truth was Adrien trusted Plagg. He didn’t know why but he did. So, with a hint of a smile on his lips, Adrien shook Plagg’s hand. “Deal, but if it backfires I’m blaming you.”

“Perfect.” Plagg grinned. “Wanna go for a swim?”

“I thought you’d never ask.” Adrien chuckled. “Let me get my swimming shorts.”

Plagg smirked, opening up the balcony door. "Sure. But keep in mind, the last one to the beach washes the dishes.”

With a shift movement, Plagg jumped over the railing and landed on the sand of their private beach strip. “See you later, loser! Be careful with china. Tikki adores it.”

***

Adrien sat on the balcony of his bedroom, watching the sunset when his phone beeped.

Nino: Okay. That’s it. This isn’t funny anymore. Dude, what’s going on? I’ve been calling you for the last few hours. You aren’t picking up; you aren’t texting back. With that father of yours, I’m starting to think you’re already ten feet underground. Do you really want me to unleash Alya on you? She’ll find you even if you’re hiding in a corner of a fisherman’s hut deep in the forests of Amazonia. So, you have five minutes to reply or it is ON.

Adrien chuckled, his smile disappearing a moment later. He saw Nino’s missed calls. He read his messages. But being on the road, with everything that’s been going on, he delayed replying, waiting for the time things would calm down a bit so they could talk in peace. Adrien snapped a picture of the sunset over the sea and sent it as his reply.

Adrien: <image 5674>

Adrien: Sorry, Nino. Been a little busy. Out of town now. What’s up?

Nino: Bro! You are alive!

Adrien: XD Barely, but yes, I’m alive.

Nino: Where are you? What do you mean barely?

Adrien: Cannes? And barely as in I’m physically exhausted from everything that’s been going on.

Nino: !!! What? How? Why didn’t you invite me? You're partying, aren't you? With that cute co-worker of yours? That’s why you’ve been MIA?

Adrien: LOL Sorry. I wish that was the case, but no. My… let’s say life coach brought here me.

Vague enough to say the truth and not give out his newly found dancing hobby. He’d tell Nino later. Not yet. At least not everything.

Nino: A life coach? Fancy. Does he teach you how to live?

Adrien: Yup. Something like that.

Nino: Please, don’t tell me your old man hired someone to brainwash you even further into slavery?

Adrien laughed. Oh man, Nino would get a blast out of this.

Adrien: LOL Quite the opposite. Plagg’s all for me stopping obeying everything my Father says and get a life for myself.

Nino: I like this Plagg already, even though his name is weird. Follow his advice.

Adrien: I did. Father and I had a huge argument, and as a result, I’ve been disowned as of yesterday afternoon.

Nino: LKJFOWQNEFOPNWO YOU SHITTING ME???

Adrien: Nope. I’m in Cannes on a recovery. XD

Nino: AND YOU TELLING ME ABOUT THIS ONLY NOW??? ADRIEN, DUDE! I THOUGHT WE WERE FRIENDS!!!

His phone rang. Adrien picked up and was immediately deafened with an overly excited Nino. They spent the rest of the evening chatting. Nino was ecstatic Adrien had walked out on Gabriel and even offered him to crash at his apartment while he looked for a new place for himself. Adrien had to decline, though. Being the third wheel on a daily basis while he was at odds with Marinette wasn't his idea of fun. In any case, he promised lunch as soon as he'd be back in Paris.

Falling asleep, Adrien couldn’t help a lingering smile on his lips. If tonight’s conversation taught him anything, it was that Nino was the best friend one could ever ask for. Someone who was ready to fully support him no matter what was going on in his life. Someone who didn’t judge him, and who accepted his flaws, who knew how to make even the grimmest discussion fun, and someone who could find a sliver of light even in the darkest of rooms. Maybe he should trust him a little more with his problems? Nino was exactly the kind of a friend Adrien wanted around him from now on, in his new future, the one he’d build for himself the way he wanted it.

***

Chat Noir: Plagg told me you’re angry at me for that compensation. I won’t apologize for that, though. You were fired. Whatever you’ve received is what the law requires my father to give to you for unfairly firing you. It isn’t a special treatment or anything. It’s justice. So, I’m not sorry and you have every legal right to that money.

Chat Noir: I will, however, apologize for this coming Saturday. I don’t know if anyone has told you yet, but Plagg insists I come to Kwami Kave. Just thought I’d warn you, in case you don’t want to see me.

Chat Noir: I love you.

Chat Noir: Please, Marinette. Say something. Anything. Even an emoji would be fine.

Chat Noir: Goodnight.

***

The sunrays sneaked through the curtains, gently kissing his eyelids. Adrien scrunched his nose and turned around. The rays travelled to the back of his neck and caressed his skin. Adrien covered himself with a blanket but got too warm almost instantly. He tossed and shifted a few times, but the damage was done. He woke up.

Lured by the sounds of waves, Adrien got up and walked out to his balcony. The sun was just rising above the horizon, reflecting off the ripples of the water. A cool breeze ran through his hair. He inhaled deeply and, closing his eyes, smiled.

Refreshing, exhilarating, and simply wonderful. This was the perfect place to kick-start his new life. Plagg was right once again.

Mind relaxed and peaceful, Adrien stretched. He was accustomed to daily intense workouts, and even though yesterday’s slower pace was necessary and welcomed, all he could think of now was movement. His muscled yearned for it. Back into his bedroom, Adrien pulled on a white tank top and white shorts before grabbing his cellphone and heading downstairs.

The house looked and sounded empty. Plagg was probably still asleep like all normal people would be. Adrien looked outside to the beach. It was empty, and most likely not just because it was private but because of the early hour. A perfect opportunity for him.

Sand on his feet, Adrien walked barefoot to the water. What he planned to do was a workout. What he’d ended up doing was missing the music while he worked. He looked around. Still no one in sight. He glanced at the house. No evidence of Plagg waking up. Adrien hesitated for just a moment, then pulled out his cell phone and put on the music he never dared to offer Plagg.

He stood just by his ankles deep in the water, but it was enough to make this dance an unforgettable experience. The music electrified him, and Adrien couldn’t help but move in tandem. Legs, arms, his whole body. He let the music overtake his senses, control his movements, move his every muscle. Just like Plagg had taught him. A kick; water splashed. A jerk and a swing. His arms moved together at his sides. His head to the sky, he closed his eyes for a split moment and felt the wind on his face.

He had never felt so free before. Never been so full of energy and hope. Hope for a better future, for a better life. Hope for Marinette’s forgiveness, even though he dared not to beg for it. Adrien expressed it all with the movement and a melody to match, collapsing to his knees with a smile on his lips at the end. Liberating. How did he never realize how badly he needed to dance in his life?

“Nice routine, Chat Blanc,” Plagg snickered behind him.

Adrien jerked around. “Plagg? You’re awake?”

Holding his cellphone in his hand, Plagg read out loud. “Mikio Sakai, Identity. Where did you find this?”

“That’s an opening to Chivalry of a Failed Knight,” Adrien said. “I watched it a while ago.”

“Anime?”

“You don’t get to judge me,” Adrien said, standing up. “You stuff yourself with stinky cheese all day long. I can listen to Japanese songs.”

Plagg laughed. “Not judging, kid. Whatever does it for you. I’m fine with anything. As long as you move.”

“Anime was my escape ever since I remember myself. I still watch it. There I said it,” Adrien said, glaring at Plagg. “Now give me my phone back.”

Plagg laughed harder. “Kid, I said it was fine. In fact, I think this song has an interesting beat to it. Want me to show how I would’ve done it?”

Adrien quirked an eyebrow. Plagg re-started the song and put the phone back in its place. Walking to Adrien, he offered him a fist to bump. “Or better yet, let’s do it together.”

It took him a moment to realize Plagg was serious, but when he did, Adrien grinned and bumped Plagg’s fist. One of the most intense dance routines Adrien had ever seen from Plagg followed. One friendship strengthened because of that. One hardcore anime binging session ensued. As a result, one more weeb was born on the shores of French Riviera later that day, much to Tikki’s annoyance.

***

They spent the next few days in a similar fashion: relaxing, dancing, and watching anime. A few times they went into the town to pick up groceries, but otherwise, neither left the premises much. This was exactly what Adrien needed now, his wounds slowly but surely starting to close. Undoubtedly, it’d take some time to heal properly, but the easy comfort he’d been plunged into was a great start for sure.

Thursday's sun was setting when Plagg stretched on his lounge chair and offered, “I’d say we take the overnight train tomorrow evening. I want to be in Paris first thing in the morning.”

“Sure,” Adrien said, watching the red disk slipping behind the horizon.

“Then I’m calling it a night.” Plagg yawned. “Doing nothing is exhausting. So glad we’re going home tomorrow.”

Plagg stood up, fixed his clothes and not walked away. Instead, he leaned on the railing with his back to the sun, face to Adrien. “So, about you buying an apartment…”

“What about it?” Adrien looked at Plagg. “It shouldn’t take long. I’ve already contacted a broker, and he has a few options for me to look at as soon as we’re back in Paris. Don’t worry, I’ll be out of your hair in no time.”

“You shouldn’t rush with that,” Plagg said. “You should first figure out what you want to do next and then look for a place that’ll fit your new needs.”

Adrien stared at Plagg wide-eyed before letting a small smile to sneak onto his lips. “Thanks, but I don’t want to invade your private escape for longer than I need to.”

“You aren’t invading anything.” Plagg shrugged. “I’m going back home after this, so you can have my Parlour for us long as you need it.”

“Plagg—”

“Listen, I won’t bother you there. I might visit you once or twice a week to get my Camembert fix, but I’m sticking by my Queen’s side for the next millennium. I mean you’re lovely and I enjoy our time together, but, kid, you are no Tikki.”

Adrien laughed. “I’m sorry I forced you away from her.”

Plagg’s eyes sparkled. "Oh! Usually, I’d say it’s nothing, but seeing how you apologized to Marinette, I’m excited to see what you’ve got for me.”

Adrien quirked an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

Plagg dramatically swooned. “You took me away from the love of my life for a week. I’ve never been away for so long. Do you even realize how hard it’s for me? And Tikki? She admitted to missing me, and believe me, kid, Tikki never admits she misses me. You made my Queen miserable. I say you take us both someplace nice and we’re even. Apologies accepted.”

Adrien laughed. “Fine by me. I even have a place in mind.”

Plagg perked. “Oh? I’m all ears.”

“Three words,” Adrien teased. “Cheese-flavoured coffee.”

Plagg’s eyes blew wide. “No way.”

“Yup.” Adrien chuckled. “Found it online yesterday. Wanted to surprise you, but since you insist I apologize, that shall do it.”

“Perfecto,” Plagg grinned and stretched up. “Well, I’m off for tonight then. See you tomorrow.”

“Hey, Plagg,” Adrien called out before Plagg could vanish into the house. “Did you talk to Tikki recently?”

“Kid, she’s my wife. We talk every day. I was going to call her just now. Why do you ask?”

Adrien hesitated. “Did she say anything about Marinette? How is she doing?”

“Oh yeah, about that,” Plagg leaned on a door frame. “Marinette’s got two job interviews scheduled for next week.”

“She did? That’s awesome. Do you know with whom?”

“Dorian Chian and I think Tanvin. How did you manage this, though? I thought for an application to be processed through their HR takes ages.”

“Not unless you send it by courier addressed to their HR head with my name on it.”

Plagg shook his head. "Won't they think you're doing her special favour?"

Adrien shrugged. “They might, and they won’t care. My name would be enough for them to open the letter right away instead of throwing it into a waiting bin with others, but that’s about it. Marinette’s portfolio would have to do all the convincing. I know people who work there. They won’t hire unless they are interested in her work.”

“Well, whatever you did, it worked,” Plagg shrugged.

“Is she angry with me for that too?”

Plagg sighed. “Tikki said she was pissed at first, but then she didn’t reject the offers. That’s a good sign. In your favour.”

Adrien smiled. “I shall hope so.”

“Well, I’m off then,” Plagg straightened up. “Got a wife waiting for my call. See you tomorrow.”

“Night, Plagg.” Adrien raised his hand to bid his farewell. When Plagg was gone, he reached for his cell phone. His messages from a few days ago were still unanswered. Maybe she’d finally blocked him? Or perhaps she needed more time before she’d want to talk to him again? Adrien didn’t know the cause, and he dared not to disturb her without a reason. However, he couldn’t not congratulate her on her job offers. It was her own accomplishment, even if he was the one to mail out her resume and portfolio.

Chat Noir: Plagg told me the news, so I just wanted to stop by and wish you good luck with the interviews. You’re an incredibly talented designer, and a wonderful, hard-working person. Any fashion house would be lucky to have you.

Ladybug is typing flashed at the bottom of the screen.

Adrien’s eyes wide, he sat up straight, staring at the screen.

Ladybug is typing.

His heart skipped a beat. She was there! She was typing! He wasn’t blocked, and she was finally willing to talk to him! Why did he suddenly feel dizzy?

Gripping his phone, Adrien watched the screen. The line disappeared. Then it was there again. Typing. Stopped. Repeat. In the end, he got a single line, but it was enough to make him grin all night into the darkness.

Ladybug: We’ll talk when you get back to Paris.

_______________________________________________________________________

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