Wow… Last chapter. I don't really know whether to celebrate or cry. This story has been a lot of fun to write, and I've gotten very attached to Jessica. This story is, oddly enough, sort of my masterpiece. I can honestly say I have never enjoyed writing a story as much as I have this one. It's a nice change from my normal POTO one-shots.
I'd like to say a special thanks to anyone and everyone who reviewed—I feel like I haven't said enough. You guys (And/or girls) have really kept me going on this story. I sort of feel like this is someone else's story—mine didn't deserve so many great reviews. Thanks so much, everyone.
As for a sequel, thanks for everyone's input on it. I haven't decided whether or not I'm going to write one. It really depends on if I have enough ideas to carry it out, or if I actually ever get inspired to write it. I am currently suffering from extreme Writer's Block, and I'm having trouble on just about every story I write. I've got one really great idea which I can't reveal, but it won't be enough for a whole story.
Anyways, enjoy this last chapter, which is almost more of an epilogue. It occurs two weeks after the last chapter, and just sort of ties up the loose ends. Very short. In fact, I'd better end this author's note before it gets longer then the chapter itself.
Once again, I still don't own Phantom of the Opera. And I still advise you not to feed the plants.
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It had been two weeks since Candice had removed Erik's mask and the truth—part of it, anyways, had come out. Candice and Jessica had left a few minutes later, but returned every day, if only for a few moments, to "See how he was doing". It had been incredibly awkward for everyone except for Jessica, who seemed to take everything in stride.
Slowly, ever so slowly, Erik had become slightly more comfortable around the McDonald family, and he was finally learning to accept that they… He wasn't quite ready to say "Cared" yet.
He wasn't entirely sure that he liked how closely he was being monitored, but there was a certain sense of belonging that went hand in hand with it, and he found that he did rather like that aspect of it.
"Erik?"
"Yes, Jessica?"
"Are you feeling better? Mommy says it takes a long time to get over pne—pneu—pneu—Whatever you've got."
"I'm feeling better." Erik assured her. It was the truth. He was feeling better, although he was still tired, and retained an annoyingly persistent cough.
"Good. I'm glad," There was a moment of silence before Jessica questioned "Erik?"
"Yes, Jessica?"
"I made you a card… but I forgot to give it to you… I'll bring it tomorrow, 'kay?"
Erik nodded tiredly.
"Come on, Jessica," Candice said, taking her daughter's hand. "Let's leave Erik alone."
Jessica nodded dutifully and walked with her mother towards the door. Just as they were about to leave, Jessica hurried back. 'Oh yeah. Erik?"
Erik sighed slightly. "Yes, Jessica?"
"Your Girl Scout cookies are here."
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THE END!
THE END, I TELL YOU!
-Cough- Sorry about that. This was actually what I wrote in the notebook at the end of this story. I had spent one too many late nights trying to finish this, and insanity resulted.
Anyways, I hope you enjoyed this story. I had a blast writing it.
If I do write a sequel, it probably won't be for a few (Or perhaps several) months… I feel like I need to write in some other fandoms for a while, and I really, REALLY need to finish a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory story I have been working on for FOREVER.
Anyways, thanks once again to everyone who reviewed… This last chapter is dedicated to you all.