#arcadeology

“Fe, I’m home!” She called, slipping her keys onto the hook. There was a light crash and Felix limped into view, his leg clearly bothering him again from when Papillion broke it. Not this again. Marinette thought.

“Mari!” Felix cried, a manic smile spread across his lips. His eyes were wide, red from crying, yet he smiled. His expression looked like it was reeled out of a horror movie. “I made you cookies!” His sleepy tone indicated his exhaustion is, along with his eye bags. Marinette looked down at the smoldering, charcoal black, unidentifiable objects on the baking sheet.

“Kitty…” She whispered, taking a step towards him. He was shaking ever so lightly. “I think we should take a minute, okay? Just take a break. It’s okay, honey.” She soothed.

“M-m-M’lady?” He murmured as she wrapped him in her arms. Guiding him to the couch she snuggled up close with him. 

“You okay little cat?” She asked as he pushed his face into her hair and neck. “Kitten?” He started shaking and a moment later, Marinette felt his tears on her shirt collar. “Kitty, don’t take it personally. What he did. Who he’s become. It’s not your fault.”

“But I could’ve stopped.” His shaky voice whispered. “I COULD’VE STOPPED IT… I COULD’VE HELPED HIM…” Felix sobbed.

“Baby…” Mari whispered, “no one could’ve helped him. Okay? It’s not on you. I love you. I really do.” 

Felix looked up at her, his manic expression gone, his teary eyes meeting hers. “I don’t know what that means.” He said. Mari’s heart sunk.

“It means you’re my kitty. It means I will protect you. It means we’re a real family.” She replied, kissing his forehead. Felix smiled softly and leaned against her again. 

“Family.” He whispered.