Return Of the Phantom

by vanessahstar1

A sequel to The Phantom's Accomplice set 5 years later when mrs. Lovett has bought the Opera Populare as Erik told her to. A bad review has Carlotta threatening to quit, but when unexpected guests arrive, the loss of her diva might seem like a small disaster. I own only the idea.

1. Chapter 1

"Madame Lovett! I simply cannot-"

"Prima donna," I started, tired of Carlotta's fits after the last five years owning the Opera Populare, "do calm yourself. You are my star, and one bad review will cease to change that."

She moved closer, and I tensed. In the seasons I had managed Carlotta, not counting the performance of Don Juan Triumphant when I had first come here and been an observer before I bought the opera house, I had learned she could be vicious if she saw fit. "Madame Lovett you are not hearing me! Either you stop these bad reviews or I quit!"

"Now Señora, do not forget. You are a goddess... a diva above all others. But who was it that stood with you when all seemed lost... when Christine Daae was given her own opera? It was not the press. I have always been your friend and always will be."

She calmed down slowly, crying a little before she looked up at me. "If my manager commands."

I reached out, touching her hand gently. "You're La Carlotta. Nothing beats you. Remember that."

As she walked out, Christine came to the door. "Nellie? Are you alright?"

I closed my eyes. "Did you see the review?"

She nodded. "We did. I imagine Carlotta isn't happy."

I nodded slowly. "Yes. I... she's difficult. She's threatening to quit, and you know how I've supported her."

Christine smiled. "Well, I'd like to take your mind off it awhile. There's a woman requesting to speak with you... a composer Madame Destler. She thinks you might want to perform one of her operas. She dropped off a copy with Madame Giry and said I was to deliver it to you in a note." She handed me the opera and I looked down at it, frowning.

"This writing. It's familiar from somewhere. But I know no Madame Destler." I opened the opera and studied it, reading over it carefully. "Christine, I can see this. The plot's so... it's dark, but I like it. Carlotta will enjoy this role I'm sure. Does Madame Destler intend to come so I can meet with her?"

Christine nodded. "Yes. She said she will be here for your decision tonight. I don't know Mrs. Lovett; I read through it. Be careful not to do something you might regret."