The Identity Problem •Luka x Reader x Adrien•

Breath

When I return to Paris, I make a conscious effort to distance myself from the boys. It's become too much to slip from one to the other simply. I need to let myself settle my feelings.

The first thing I do when I land is call Michael to see if he proposed. I'm met with a slew of engagement pictures, both teary-eyed and beaming. They also invite me over for dinner on Wednesday, which I accept immediately.

Chat Noir has already reemerged in the public eye, which makes my chest tighten a bit. Adrien barely had a chance to unpack his suitcase, and he's already fighting crime. He has yet to visit me as Chat Noir, but I think it's out of respect for the boundary I'm putting up.

Luka, on the other hand, I have no escape from, it's simply impossible with how much I hang out with Rose and Juleka. But I haven't been alone with him since we all got back, so I have to consider it a win.

The first day back to school after break is how you would expect, reuniting with friends and resenting the work to come. I stick to the girls like glue, more than happy to let them drone on about their separate break trips and outings. Anything to escape talking about my own.

Alya, Marinette, Juleka, Rose, and I are sitting in the music room. We decided to start eating lunch there instead of walking home in the cold or being stuck in the classroom. Rose is talking about a Chanel collection of pink handbags that she wants to save up for when I catch Marinette's eye over her sandwich.

She's looking at me in that strangely familiar discerning way she always does. I shoot her a smile, and stuff a pretzel in my mouth to divert her attention. Unsurprisingly, it doesn't work.

"How was your break y/n? You've hardly said anything?"

I cringe as the girls look at me, chewing slowly to buy time. Juleka shoots me a sympathetic glance.

"It was good, we got to visit Caleb's family. I missed them a lot."

"And how was the gala? I saw you guys all dressed up. You looked good, girl. I bet the boys were drooling."

Alya laughs and takes a sip out of her water bottle. I try to force another smile on my face, but it doesn't take. Glancing over at Michael, I can see him eyeing us from his desk, pretending not to be listening as he grades papers. I pick at the rips in my jeans.

"About that...I think I need to take a break from all the boy stuff."

"What, why? It's so fun though!"

Rose's eyes grow bigger in shock somehow. I take a deep breath.

"I've spoken to them and they understand how I'm feeling, but I don't feel right talking to all of them. I feel like I'm leading them on even though they say they get it."

I curl into myself a bit but continue.

"So, uhh, Poppy said some stuff at the gala- I don't know how to explain it, it kinda makes me sound crazy. Maybe Juelka can tell you more later. But basically, I think I'm just overwhelmed right now, I don't wanna cry right now, so I won't get into it. But ya..."