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Erik watched the rehearsals for the upcoming show from the rafters. Carlotta began singing and he grimaced. Oh how he hated it when she opened her mouth to "sing" if you could call that awful noise she made singing. He turned spotted Christine stretching for the morning. Her usual smile was absent from her face and she looked troubled. He remembered her determination last night to see him again. It was difficult to push her away when she wanted to get to know him but he managed to do so. Carlotta stormed off in a huff and the ballet took their place. Madame Giry stood at the front of the stage and started taping her cane calling them to attention. The orchestra started playing and the ballet began to dance, Madame Giry began critiquing them. Erik watched Christine closely with a frown. She seemed to be going through the motions, not really paying attention to what she was doing, her expression blank. Madame Giry tapped her cane again and everyone halted. Erik ignored what she said and turned to sneak back to his home. He had to think of a way to make Christine understand his reasoning. "The new patron, the Vicomte de Chagny." Firmin announced. Erik stopped and turned to see who they were introducing. "It's an honor to support the world renowned Opera Populaire." The Vicomte said. Erik glanced at Christine and saw her whispering something to Meg which made Meg look at her in surprise and giggle. Erik raised an eyebrow and looked back at the Vicomte. He's not good enough for Christine, he thought. He's better for her than you are, he's handsome, and he has money and social status and everything you don't, another voice whispered. He growled quietly in response.

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