Author's Note: A little late in the day, but here it is. This isn't my favorite chapter, but it's up there. I hope you guys like it as much as I do. Helen sings again & it's in BOLD. As I'm putting this up, I'm listening to Hugh Panaro sing "Music of the Night" and it's so enchanting. As always, I own nothing except for the names of my characters. Enjoy & review!
After Krystle had left, I kept telling myself that there was nothing to worry about. I knew Brian was coming next, but to be honest, I was a little scared. I didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings, especially his. I began to pace the stage. I felt like a nervous wreck, but I had to look alright for when he came. I had to be strong, for myself and for Erik. I took a deep breath and sighed. I walked back over towards center stage and started to sing one of my favorite songs.
"Father once spoke of an Angel
I used to dream he'd appear
Now as I sing I can sense him
And I know he's here"
I heard footsteps and I jumped. Brian had entered in from backstage. "You sounded beautiful," he murmured as he clapped. I blushed. "Thanks." He walked over to me and smiled. "You called saying we had to talk. Is it about the library?" Brian asked with eyes full of hope. I shook my head. "No. I have something to tell you. It changes everything." Brian held my hands in his. "Tell me," he whispered. I looked in his eyes and told him everything. During the story, he never let go of my hands. He didn't seem jealous or angry in any way and that was a relief. When I finished, he put a hand on my cheek. "I'm so sorry. I didn't realize you were going through all of this. Why didn't you tell me earlier?" I sighed and turned away from him. "It's because I couldn't make a decision until now." Brian smiled sadly. "I know you chose Erik, but there's something that hasn't changed." I turned back and looked at him with confusion. "What do you mean?" I asked. He smiled. "I'll still be waiting for you." I gasped and took a step back. "Brian, did you not hear a word…" Brian put a finger on my lips to stop me. "Yes, I heard you, but regardless of whether you lose your memories or not, I'll be waiting. Besides, if what Erik said is true, you're still here physically." I looked at Brian in awe. "Brian…" I murmured. He smiled as he pushed back some loose hair and kissed me. His lips felt soft and I drowned in the sweetness of it all. I wrapped my arms around him and drew him closer and I deepened the kiss. Tears started falling down my cheeks and I broke the kiss. "What was that for?" I asked, playing dumb. He smiled. "Since goodbye is the wrong word, consider it a 'so long' kiss." I laughed and hugged him close. Brian kissed where the tear streaks were on my face. "Erik might get mad," I teased. Brian chuckled. "I don't care. As long as you aren't mad, nothing else matters." I put my head on his shoulder. "Thank you," I whispered. Brian kissed the top of my head and murmured, "I love you, no matter what happens or who you become." I stepped back to look at the boy who had matured so much since I first met him. I checked my phone and said, "You should go. As much as I want you to stay, I have to tell Alex about all of this." Brian nodded. "Ah, save the boyfriend for last," he joked. "Don't worry. If anyone will understand, it'll be him. He was lucky to have gotten the chance to be with you…" Brian said. I nodded. Alex understood me, but he would be the hardest person to say goodbye to. Brian saw the sadness in my eyes and saw it as his cue to leave. I waved goodbye as he left and gently touched my bottom lip. His kiss still lingered and tingled on my lips. I sighed and wait for my last and hardest challenge of the night.
