Beyond the Borders

ch.2 - cycle of perfectionism

♥

Adrien's POV:

(Let's not worry too much of the changes, I honestly didn't think this through and I'm trying to be as organized as I can.)

As I sit in front of my mirror, meticulously combing my hair into its usual perfectly styled look, I can't help but feel a pang of frustration and anger towards my father. Here I am, seventeen and a half years old, about to start my last year as a junior of high school, and yet I still have to adhere to his strict rules and expectations.

Growing up, I was always taught to be the perfect, reserved boy. My father, a successful businessman and the head of our wealthy family, made sure that I was always presentable and poised in every situation. He would constantly remind me that I am the face of our family and that I should always uphold our image.

But as I got older, I started to feel suffocated by these expectations. I wanted to break free and make my own decisions, but my father's hold on me seemed to only tighten. He had my whole life mapped out for me - attending a prestigious university when my senior year is completed, taking over the family business, and marrying a suitable woman to continue our legacy. I had no say in any of it.

I glance at the clock and realize that I still have time to get ready. It's the same routine every day – shower, get dressed, have breakfast, and head out the door. But even in these small actions, I am reminded of my father's control over my life. The clothes I wear, the food I eat, the time I leave for school – everything has been chosen and planned out for me. And while I appreciate the luxury that comes with being part of a rich family, I often wonder if it's worth sacrificing my freedom and individuality.

While my classmates are enjoying their last year of high school and planning for college, I am already juggling multiple internships and work schedules to earn my keep in the family business. It's exhausting, to say the least.

I wish I could just be a normal teenager, making my own decisions and mistakes. But I know I can't, not when my father's approval and expectations weigh heavily on me. And so, I continue to play the role of the perfect son, hiding my true feelings and desires, and going along with my father's plans.

But that's not an option for me. Not when my father's expectations of perfection hang over my head like a dark cloud. Ever since my mother passed away, my father has been even more strict with me, wanting me to uphold our family legacy and make her proud. And while I understand his intentions, it's suffocating. Especially when he's awfully distant and too overly focused on his work.

I wish I could just be a normal teenager, making my own decisions and mistakes. To hang out with friends, go to parties, and maybe even meet someone special. But those thoughts are quickly dismissed by the guilt and duty that come with being an Agreste.

Suddenly, my thoughts were interrupted by the sound of knocking coming from my bedroom door. "Adrien, are you almost done? Breakfast is waiting for you downstairs," Nathalie, my father's assistant, called.

"I'll be there in a sec!" I quickly replied, quickly readjusting the belt wrapped around the waistband of my jeans. I grab my bag, filled with all the necessary school supplies, and throw it over my shoulder. I take one last glance in the mirror before heading downstairs.

Nathalie was already setting the table, and the smell of fresh croissants and coffee filled the air.

"Good morning, Nathalie," I greeted her with a smile as I sat down at the table.

"Good morning, Adrien. Your father is busy with his work, but he left a note for you on the kitchen counter," she informed me as she poured me a cup of coffee.

I thanked her and grabbed the note, quickly reading it. It was just a reminder to work hard and make him proud. I couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt. I knew my father only wanted what was best for me, but sometimes it felt extremely smothering when doing his expectations.

As I finish eating breakfast and head out the door, I can't help but wonder if this is what the rest of my life will look like. For now, I'll have to play the role of the perfect son, the reserved and disciplined boy that my father wants me to be. But deep down, I can't help but hope that one day, I'll have the courage to break free and live life on my own terms.

♥

As I make my way through the crowded streets of the city, I can't help but feel a sense of anxiety creeping up on me. Every day, I have to face the challenging task of putting on a mask and pretending to be someone I'm not. It's not easy constantly living up to his expectations and I often wonder if I'll ever be able to break free from his control.

But then I remind myself that I have a duty to uphold, not only as a son but also as the secret protector of Paris, Ladybug's partner. And I can't let anything distract me from that.

As I approach the school gates, I hear a familiar voice calling out my name. Nino, the one person who knows the real me and accepts me for who I am. We greet each other with a fist bump, our signature move, and I instantly feel a sense of relief wash over me.

Nino and I have been friends since the first day I came to our prestigious school, and he's always been there for me through thick and thin. He knows about my double life and even though he may not completely understand it, he never judges me for it.

Nino noticed my conflicted expression and nudged me playfully. "Hey man, you ready for the last day of school?"

I let out an awkward grin and shrugged, trying to brush off my conflicting emotions. "Yeah, I guess. Can't believe the summer vacation is finally here."

Nino chuckled and slung an arm around my shoulders. "Come on, don't be so down. It's gonna be an awesome break! We can hang out, go to the beach, and maybe even meet some cute girls."

I rolled my eyes at his teasing but couldn't help but smile at the thought of spending time with my best friend. We had been through so much together, and I was grateful to have him by my side.

However, the only problem is that I don't even know if my father will permit me to do anything during the summer. There are times where he will allow me to have some fun, but in other times, he won't. If there were a competition to who was the biggest downer in the world, I assure you he'd win first place.

"Yeah, you're right," I replied after shaking my thoughts away, feeling more relaxed now. "Let's make this last day of school one to remember."

Nino gave me a high-five and we continued walking towards school, ready to take on whatever the day had in store for us.