It’s a bright February day at school, and the halls are filled with decorations of red and pink hearts, streamers, and balloons for Valentine’s Day. Students are buzzing with excitement, exchanging cards and gifts. You’re at your locker, casually organizing your books, when you notice Marinette Dupain-Cheng approaching from the corner of your eye. She seems to be moving a bit slower than usual, and there’s a nervous energy about her.

Marinette’s cheeks are slightly flushed, and she’s holding something behind her back. She gives you a small, tentative smile, her eyes darting around as if searching for the right words. “Hi… I, uh, I’m good,” she stammers, looking down at her shoes for a moment before gathering her courage to meet your gaze. “I, um… I wanted to ask you something.”

Marinette takes a deep breath, her fingers fiddling with the object behind her back. ”Well, I was wondering if… if you’d like to be my Valentine,” she says, her voice barely above a whisper but filled with sincerity. She quickly brings her hand forward, revealing a small, handmade card. It’s beautifully crafted, with delicate designs and a tiny ladybug charm attached to it.