Chapter 26: Forever

(A/N: This chapter takes place a year later on Valentines Day)

Valentine's Day was always a day of grand gestures and heartfelt declarations, but this year, Felix had something extraordinary planned. The momentous occasion marked a year since he and Marinette had started dating, and Felix knew he wanted to take their relationship to the next level. With a meticulously thought-out plan, he set out to make the evening unforgettable.

A few days earlier, Felix had visited a renowned jeweler to have a ring custom-made for Marinette. He spent hours deliberating over the design, ensuring every detail reflected her elegance and uniqueness. The final creation was a masterpiece: a white gold band with intricate swirls of silver and vibrant red gems that seemed to dance in the light. Holding the velvet box for the first time, Felix had felt an unfamiliar nervousness settle in his chest—a rare occurrence for someone as composed as him. But he knew it was perfect, just like her.

Now, dressed in a tailored black suit with a deep red tie that complemented the holiday's theme, Felix glanced at his reflection in the mirror, smoothing his hair and adjusting his tie for the fifth time. He was not one to get nervous, but tonight was different. The small velvet box in his pocket felt like it weighed a ton, a constant reminder of the question he would ask later that evening.

Meanwhile, Marinette prepared for their date in her own way. She slipped into an elegant navy blue dress with delicate silver embroidery that shimmered like starlight. Her hair was styled in loose waves that framed her face, and her signature red lipstick completed the look. When Felix arrived to pick her up, his breath caught in his throat.

"You look stunning," Felix murmured, offering his arm as they left the safe house together. Marinette's cheeks flushed at the compliment, and she looped her arm through his, smiling up at him.

Their destination was a renowned fine-dining restaurant in the city, known for its opulent decor and exquisite cuisine. Felix had pulled every string he could to secure a reservation for Valentine's Day. The maître d' greeted them warmly and led them to a private table near a large window overlooking the city skyline. The table was adorned with a white linen cloth, a centerpiece of roses, and candles that cast a soft, romantic glow.

Over the course of the meal, they shared laughter and reminisced about the past year. Felix's sharp wit and Marinette's playful banter filled the space with an ease that spoke of their deep connection. Felix's heart swelled as he watched her laugh, the light dancing in her eyes. She was everything he never knew he needed, and tonight, he was going to make sure she knew it.

After dessert – a decadent chocolate soufflé they shared – Felix reached across the table to take Marinette's hand.

"I hope you've enjoyed the evening so far," he said softly, his thumb brushing against her knuckles.

"It's been perfect," Marinette replied, her smile lighting up the room. "But you didn't have to go to all this trouble, Felix. Just being with you is more than enough for me."

Felix's lips quirked into a small smile. "It's not trouble when it's for you."

After settling the bill, Felix stood and offered his hand to Marinette. "There's one more thing I'd like to do tonight, if you're up for it."

Marinette's curiosity piqued, and she allowed him to guide her outside, where a car awaited them. The drive was short, and soon they arrived at the park where they had shared their first date. Marinette gasped softly as she stepped out of the car. The entire area was transformed; fairy lights draped the trees, casting a magical glow over the park. Lanterns lined the pathway, leading to a large, soft blanket spread out on the grass.

"Felix," Marinette whispered, her eyes wide. "This is incredible. Did you do all this?"

Felix shrugged modestly, though there was a hint of pride in his smile. "I may have pulled a few strings. Anything for you."

They walked hand-in-hand to the blanket and sat down, gazing at the stars. The cool night air was crisp, but the warmth of the moment wrapped around them like a cocoon. Marinette leaned her head on Felix's shoulder, sighing contentedly.

After a few minutes, Felix shifted, turning slightly to face her. "Marinette," he began, his voice unusually serious.

She lifted her head, sensing the shift in his demeanor. "Yes?"

Felix took a deep breath, his hand slipping into his pocket to retrieve the velvet box. "This past year has been the best of my life. You've shown me what it means to care, to trust, and to love. You make me want to be a better person every day, and I can't imagine my life without you in it."

Marinette's breath hitched as he got down on one knee, opening the box to reveal the breathtaking ring he had so carefully designed. The white gold band twisted elegantly, with swirls of crystal diamonds and vibrant red gems that sparkled like tiny hearts.

"Marinette Dupain-Cheng," Felix said, his voice steady despite the emotions swirling within him, "will you do me the honor of being my wife?"

Tears filled Marinette's eyes as she stared at the man she loved. A smile broke across her face, and she nodded fervently. "Yes," she whispered, then louder, "Yes, Felix, I will!"

Felix slid the ring onto her finger, his own smile radiant. As he stood, Marinette threw her arms around him, and they held each other tightly. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them and the love they shared.

Marinette pulled back slightly, her hands resting on his chest. She gazed into his eyes for a heartbeat before closing the distance between them in a kiss that spoke volumes. It wasn't tentative or hesitant—it was fervent, brimming with passion and the promise of forever. Felix responded instantly, his arms encircling her waist as he deepened the kiss, pouring every unspoken word and emotion into it. The world around them seemed to vanish, leaving only the stars above and the warmth between them.

When they finally broke apart, both breathless and hearts racing, Marinette's cheeks were flushed, and her smile was brighter than ever. "You've made me the happiest person in the world," she said softly.

Felix leaned his forehead against hers, his own smile tender. "The feeling is entirely mutual."

They spent the rest of the evening beneath the stars, basking in the joy of their engagement. The park, with its fairy lights and memories of their first date, became an even more cherished place in their hearts. The promise of a lifetime together filled the air, and in that moment, there was no one else in the world but them.

OMG, they got engaged! I can't believe this story is coming to an end already! Lemme know if I should make another chapter where they are married, or if I should just end it here? Thank you guys so much for reading!

ILY!-Nattie!