Aftermath: Ch 2 - Lifeline

Chapters: 1 | 2 | 3

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Content Warning: Suicidal Ideation, Severe Depression, Severe Anxiety, PTSD

Chapter 2 - Lifeline

“Marinette,” Tikki began in the same concerned tone she had every single time they were alone since her night on the Eiffel Tower. “You need to talk to someone.”

Marinette didn’t bother to respond. She turned away from the little red kwami. They had already had this conversation. Many times. Tikki might be right, but what was the point if Marinette couldn’t really talk about anything.

And even if she did decide that she could tell someone her secret, could anyone  truly understand?

They wouldn’t be able to help her, and then she’d be risking her friends and family by letting the secret potentially get out for no reason.

There was no point.

“This isn’t something that you can just will yourself out of, Marinette,” Tikki was saying. “You need help. And there’s no shame in that. You have been through so much and you still grieve so much. You’ve been so strong and so resilient. I’m so proud of everything you’ve accomplished as Ladybug and as Marinette.”

Marinette clamped her hands over her ears, trying to tune out the positive affirmations that only felt like sandpaper on her skin.

She knew Tikki was trying to help, but Marinette couldn’t stand the optimism, the determination to look for the silver linings or bright side in a situation. She couldn’t feel any of that, couldn’t believe any of that, even if she wanted to.

Not anymore.

But Tikki kept talking.

“Tikki!” Marinette finally snapped.

Bright blue eyes blinked at her in surprise. “Yes, Marinette?”

“I renounce you.”