I feel like they had such a good and in depth arc in the series. They both like each other from the start, but Malina isn't ready to date Kuzco as long as he is still so selfish & immature. But she never stops being there for him as a friend, even when she declines his advances, and while at first Kuzco chases after Malina because she is a star student and would make him look good if she was his empress, I think he begins to really love her in s2, and this is also when Malina starts to really accept that she has deep feelings for Kuzco instead of being in a state of self denial.
There are so many sweet & heartwarming scenes between these two of them supporting each other through their struggles, pushing eachother to be the best versions of themselves and enjoy their time at school while it lasts.
Their ending is so bittersweet imo because while Malina confesses her feelings to Kuzco, and they go on a date, it is implied Malina leaves immediately after to further her career, while Kuzco is left to rule the empire without her. I really hope one day they make a third season, or a special about what happens after they graduated. Kuzco/Malina were such a well written couple who overcame obstacles and went through character development to be with each other, and they deserve a happy ending.