As we make our way through the alleys, trusting Madame's lead, I whisper to Erik "Darling, where is your mask? I didn't even recognize you before!" He chuckles, and I sense a sort of triumph in the sound. "Well my dear, I've been working on this for some time. I had hoped that this would make it easier for you to love me, if I looked like any other man. I thought you would prefer a man who could take you walking and out to church on Sundays. And I decided that tonight was the perfect night to begin." We pause a moment as Madame looks around quickly to get her bearings. I take advantage of the pause to reach and stroke Erik's jaw, which remains uncovered by the mask. I do this purposely. I want to feel him. I finally find the words to convey my feelings, and I murmur lovingly "As long as you promise me that you will let me see the real you, and not always hide behind this mask." His eyes widen, and I see surprise shining in them. I kiss him lightly and whisper "I love you Erik." I pull away and realize that Madame has been waiting on us to finish before we move ahead. She smiles kindly and says "We are almost there. Just a few more minutes."
True to her word, only minutes later we are inside a small chapel, lit with a few wavering candles. Madame whispers to us "I thought this place ideal. There's seldom many here, but it's always open to the lost and needy." I realize that those words will no longer apply to Erik, and he squeezes my hand as if he too understands this. Madame leads us to a small alcove where the priest sits, attempting to avoid nodding off to sleep. She taps his shoulder and he gives a small jump in his seat. He adjusts his glasses and smiles at us as if we have brought him a special gift. "Ah, so these are the ones who are to be married tonight!" he exclaims happily. He looks at us, how we are all still out of breath from our rush through the city streets and he rises and gestures to some seats. "Please, please, my children, take a seat, relax a moment and catch your breath. Would any of you care for a small glass of wine?" Erik looks baffled by this elderly man and his effusive personality. I giggle a bit, enjoying Erik's first church experience. Madame raises an eyebrow at the priest's offer and he waves a hand at her. "I keep a bottle for sickness, Madame, that is all. This young couple looks as if they are out of breath and a little jittery. I believe they would benefit from a small sip before we begin." He winks teasingly at me, making me laugh again. I like this priest, and I'm glad such a friendly man will be marrying Erik and me.
After he feels we are sufficiently settled down, Father DuPont asks if he may speak with Erik privately for a moment. Erik looks at me with a mixture of fear and chagrin, but I smile reassuringly and nod. Even though I've just met DuPont, I can't help but trust him. The men walk a few feet away, and I watch as they speak in hushed tones. Madame Giry takes my hand and asks "My dear girl, how are you? Did the Vicomte harm you at all?" I shake my head quickly and say "No, he didn't hurt me. But I fear for him. I truly believe his mind is gone. And I think he had been drinking too. I could smell liquor on him. Maybe that's why he thought he could take me. I don't understand. But I'm here now with Erik, and I just wish to marry him and live our lives together." She pats my hand kindly. "And marry him you shall. I'm happy for you, my girl."
Erik and Father DuPont return, and I see a light in Erik's eye that has never been there before. He seems so calm and happy, so unlike his demeanor when we first entered the church. Father DuPont takes both of us by the hand and leads us into the privacy of his alcove, where he picks up his Bible and says "Now, let us begin."
Father DuPont keeps the ceremony brief. Madame must have arranged that too. As we say our vows to each other, a tear slips down my cheek when I see Erik's happiness. He stammers over the words, and I nod at him encouragingly. Erik takes a deep breath, steadies himself, and then continues, more sure of himself now. I repeat the timeless words, smiling at Erik the entire time. Then the priest declares us man and wife, blesses us, and with a grin that seems almost wicked and teasing says delightedly "You may kiss your bride!" At this, Erik's eyes gleam brightly, and he slides his arms around my waist and kisses me. I briefly hope that he remembers we are still in a house of God and that he doesn't over do it, but I'm soon lost in the feel of his lips upon mine. He pulls away, regret clear on his face. I smile at him, knowing that the regret comes from the kiss ending. He winks rakishly at me and my smile grows. Erik turns and grasps the priest's hand, thanking him heartily. I hear Father DuPont whisper "You may come visit with me anytime you wish, son" and Erik seems to blink back a few tears of happiness at those words. I can't help myself; I move closer and hug that dear old man, whispering "Thank you Father". He hugs me back before looking me in the eye and saying "May the Lord bless you both, you beautiful children of God." His words touch Erik, and he comes and hugs him briefly as well.
As we walk out of the church, Madame Giry turns and hugs us each before stating that she will leave us. It strikes me that we are man and wife now. This dream has actually come true. I wonder if we are returning to Erik's home under the Opera, but he surprises me yet again. He stops a brougham for hire and speaks to the driver. He turns to me and smiles broadly as he speaks. "My darling wife, the carriage waits to take us to our new home!" He helps me in and sits next to me, lavishing kisses on my hand. I ask curiously "Our new home? Where?" Erik smiles mysteriously and says "Ah, it's a surprise, my dear. We will be there soon, love." Then he pulled me close and as he wrapped an arm around my waist he whispered "Meanwhile, I must give my compliments to the bride. You look beautiful, so beautiful. And now you are mine." I shiver as the full meaning of his words descends. Yes, very soon, he will have me completely.
So I'm back! Between RL and trying to work out this chapter, I know it's been a while since the last update. But this really does ensure that you get quality work. So I hope you forgive me.
Gerry has arranged Devil's Food Cake for reviewers! Enjoy!
Oh, and there might just be plans for a deleted scene… if my reviewers command.