Chapter 21
The voice singing filled his very soul. And for a moment, he thought he was seeing and hearing a glimpse of the heavens.
It made him shudder.
"What did I do wrong?" asked Christine suddenly as she stopped singing. Erik realized he had stopped playing and was staring at her. He shook his head.
"Nothing," he said quietly not wanting to admit how he just felt. His heart inside though was soaring. Her voice was returning but he had no intention of making her think she was anywhere near being such a beautiful voice. She still had too much work to do and he did not want her to lose momentum on her continued desire to practice.
He stood up from the piano seeing the clock which was telling him Raoul would be here soon. He crossed the room toward the mirror.
"Erik?" He heard her voice actually quiver. "What is it?"
He stood before the mirror and looked up to meet her gaze behind him. She looked almost frightened, as if she though he was suddenly abandoning her. "You are improving each day," he assured her softly, "Continue to practice Christine."
"How could I forget? I think of you every day. You are always with me in my mind still it seems."
Erik did not respond. Christine was in his mind but Laurette was in his heart and it was painfully beating. She had left shortly after the night she admitted to him about her childhood. It had already been over a week without her.
"Erik?"
"Practice Christine," he murmured and he stepped through the secret mirror leaving her to wait for Raoul.
He wandered down the back corridor and to the theater, already listening to the songs being rehearsed. In some respect, Erik was at least excited about this next performance. Instead of it being an Opera, Laurette apparently had convinced Monsieur Garier to do something different and hold more of a concert of different songs. The orchestra had a feature, Julia would be singing a solo, there was a duet between Chantel and Sara, and even the dancers had a performance choreographed by Melanie. No doubt Monsieur Garier gave in as she convinced him it would draw the attention of the audience to do something different.
Emerging backstage, Erik saw Justine taking his place to practice his solo. "Maestro!" Erik heard Joseph. "I need to show you something."
Erik nodded. Joseph always had to show him something. But he was pleasantly surprised when Joseph held out a number of music sheets that he could tell were handwritten by Laurette.
"This is Madame's solo that she sent to us. It is rather…different."
Erik read over the music, the melody already playing in his head. She had admitted that she was no song writer so it puzzled him that she had actually written something for this performance. "Did it come with any words?" Erik heard himself asking.
"No, which makes it all the more difficult," complained Joseph. "I thought we'd be able to at least use Julia to practice. But now it seems we are going to have to…improvise and follow Madame's lead." Joseph sighed. "It is unsettling. I hate the unplanned during a performance. These musicians, although talented, are still quite inexperienced."
"Let me listen to them," said Erik as he walked with Joseph over to the stage.
Justine was frowning. "What about me?"
"I am surprised Justine. Do you need to practice?" asked Erik.
Justine stared at him for a moment and suddenly began to laugh. "Why Maestro, you actually made a joke. That in itself is progress."
Julia smiled from the side of the stage and the musicians were grinning at him. Erik was surprised to find he actually pleased they were doing so but did not want to reveal such a thing.
"Move off the stage," Erik practically growled at Justine. He laughed in response and jumped down to the theater seats.
Joseph hopped down into the orchestra pit and began to give instructions to the musicians. "Watch the second section, look for my cue, remember soft and gentle than climb slowly to the top of the scale in the climax. And whatever mistakes you make, don't stop, let's just get through it once for now."
Erik froze for a moment as Joseph's words reminded him of the night with Laurette. He was even more curious now as to what she wrote. He felt a tug on his sleeve and looked down to see Phillipe who was motioning to him furiously. "What is it?" he asked gently.
Phillipe scurried away pointing to a few sets he had erected backstage. He pointed upward and Erik saw a large backdrop poised to come down. Apparently he had instructions to do these things from Laurette during the song.
"Did she write to you?" asked Erik suddenly feeling jealous that he had not received a letter. For the first time Erik had ever seen, Phillipe smiled at him. "I see," said Erik in a low tone. "Very well, let me see what the background is during the song."
Joseph raised his baton and the musicians began to play. It was indeed a very soft melody that was new to him. Phillipe had darkened the stage to begin what appeared to be a dark, night scene. The stars seem to slowly appear one by one while moon moved behind some transparent clouds. Erik was impressed; it looked just like one of the beautiful nights he saw from the roof of the opera house. Obviously Laurette had made sure of this.
The music slowly began to swell and it had a sweetness to it. While dramatic in tone, it also displayed a soft side. It seemed to fit Laurette perfectly. The climatic end of the song had soft smoke swirling around on the stage and the moon brightly shining.
"Wow," said Justine as the musicians finished. "I think she shall draw even more attention than me."
This was true. Erik was still puzzled as Laurette did not like to draw attention to herself. She was more than happy when any of the other cast had to take a leading role in a scene. He looked at Joseph.
"They did well. Perhaps a little more in tune would help with the woodwinds…" A few of the musicians looked at him sheepishly as they realized he knew they did not warm up properly to which Joseph nodded sternly at them in agreement. "But overall, it comes across very…"
"Dramatic," finished Justine. "Well it is," he said as Erik narrowed his eyes at him.
"Are you still seeing one of Monsieur Garier's servants?"
"Of course. I see her every Thursday evening when she has to come into town for things he wants."
"You need to see if she can retrieve the words for this song from Madame Duprey."
"Well, she can give a message to another servant that will be visiting his vacation house that evening. That is about half way to his estate. She can deliver it to Laurette from there."
"Madame Duprey," corrected Erik annoyed at him.
Justine grinned. "I seemed to recall you having a hard time remembering her formal title and yet now it is you who remind me."
This was not an appropriate conversation in front of the Company and Erik's jaw clenched. "Can you get a response from her that evening or not Justine?"
"Well, yes. I can wait for Cloey…"
"Cloey?"
"The servant I am seeing. She is quite beautiful with red hair…but Maestro, with me waiting that long I won't have any time left to spend with her."
"And that matters to you?" asked Erik knowing full well this was not relationship of love.
"Well, I don't get to see her that often," grumbled Justine.
"I am sure you can survive Justine."
"Yeah well don't be surprised if I do something irrational the next day like cutting down the new chandelier or something."
Dion immediately stepped forward clearing his throat. Armond was right behind him and the two of them were glaring at Justine. The Company was silent.
Erik was not amused. "Take over Guatier; I have other things I need to attend to." He walked offstage trying to control his anger.
"You idiot," Erik heard one voice say from the stage as he retreated to the secret passageway.
"I was just kidding," Justine said.
"I do not believe Madame Duprey would find that remark amusing Justine. You will show him the respect he deserves for all that he has done for us."
Erik could not listen any further and made his way to the library. Maria of course had already made him lunch and was carrying it on a tray.
"Oh! I thought you would be in the Music Room, Monsieur. Would you like to eat in here?"
Erik sighed and sat down in a large armchair near the fireplace. Maria obviously took that as his consent and brought up a small table to set the tray on. He watched her as she happily served soup into a bowl and poured some tea for him. He should go back and put Justine in his place but he simply did not feel like it today. He was suddenly very tired. How much longer could all of this go on? Would it ever end? And what then? Would Laurette simply be content to be with him for the rest of her life? He wanted to take off his mask and rub his forehead even though he knew he would not feel such a thing. But his head was slightly aching.
"May I…would you please give me your jacket?" asked Maria.
Erik looked up and saw her outstretched hand. "Why?"
"Because it is too hot in here," she said softly. "It will help you to relax."
Erik gave in, took off his jacket and gave it to her. Sinking back into the chair he did in fact feel better. "Thank you Maria," he said softly. She smiled at him and left the room. Not touching the food, Erik closed his eyes and slept.
But over the next few days, Erik did not get an answer from Laurette that he wanted. Justine handed him a letter during one rehearsal with a big grin on his face. "I already know what it says," he said gleefully.
He was testing Erik greatly these days.
When he opened the letter, he only saw two words:
Nice Try. --Laurette
He shook his head.
Fine. Leave it so the song might be horrible if they did not practice with the lyrics. It was up to her. He was also annoyed that she had no other words for him even though he knew just as well Justine would read it.
"Maestro? The Count and Countess are here to see you," said Maria walking into the theater.
Erik ignored the Company's eyes that were all on him. "Thank you. I will be there in a moment."
What the hell did Raoul want? The lessons had been going fine, if anything, they were close now. Christine was making him shudder more and more with each lesson. It was as if he almost could barely stand to hear such a perfect voice. He completely understood why it made him go mad. Laurette was at least his anchor now.
He reluctantly made his way to the sitting room of Laurette's suite where he found them seated by Maria. Christine, as usual, wore an elegant dress of silk, the train sweeping around her as she sat. Her hair was twisted into a most flattering style that showed off the beautiful roundness of her face.
God he missed Laurette at the moment.
"What is it?" asked Erik as he entered the room.
Raoul, drinking tea, calmly placed the cup and saucer down on the table beside him. "I think we need to discuss the next part of our plan."
"Plan?" echoed Erik. He had no plan to do anything at the moment except try to avoid killing this man.
"To re-introduce Christine," Raoul said softly. He motioned to a chair across from him.
Erik remained standing. "Christine is not ready yet."
"But I will be soon Erik."
He looked at her and realized she was seeking his eyes. She most likely knew how her singing was now affecting him during the lessons. He couldn't help but stare at her with awe when she sang.
It irritated him.
"You are not ready yet. You should not sing in front of anyone until I am satisfied that you are ready." He wasn't going to take any chance in Christine's voice suddenly not succeeding and furthering Monsieur Garier's attention on Laurette.
"But we have to start now. Christine has been out of the public eye all together. We need to re-introduce her in the social sense, not to sing, but to begin her winning favor with the public through her interactions," explained Raoul.
"Why should that matter?" asked Erik. She only had to somehow out sing Laurette on stage.
"Because even if Christine's voice is the most beautiful voice in the world, it will not matter if they do not like her. Laurette is rather…," he paused for a moment looking at his wife. "Sweet," he finished.
Christine bit her lip and Erik said nothing. But he knew Raoul had a point. Christine had been far from nice and Laurette was so kind she could make anyone falls in love with her just by that alone. Or at least the men.
"What do you want?" snapped Erik. He was tired of feeling like Raoul was leading in control of this whole affair.
"The next performance. It is of course sold out. Monsieur Leduc I am sure would have easily convinced Monsieur Garier to give me some tickets. However they are so sought after, no one is willing to give any of them up. I thought maybe if you still sat in Box five…,"
Dread curled in Erik's mind. He could barely stand to be in a room with this man and now he wanted to sit with him in his box?
"Will this really make any difference?" asked Erik.
"Yes," said Raoul firmly. "She will be visible in the box and it is sure to start the rumor that Monsieur Garier invited her. Or at the very least remind everyone of the famous Opera Ghost tale."
Erik gritted his teeth for a moment at the remark. "I see."
"Please Erik," said Christine softly, "Raoul may have a point here, although I dare say he had better watch himself when he compares me to Madame Duprey." She glared at Raoul. "I may be nothing like her but I do have some good qualities as well."
Raoul's face softened. "Christine, I did not mean…,"
"I know very well what you meant," Christine suddenly snapped. "If you hadn't forced me to come here in the first place…," She choked for a moment, trying to hold back tears.
"Christine…,"
"Can we sit with you or not Erik?" asked Christine ignoring her husband.
He studied her for a moment and for the strangest moment he actually felt bad for Raoul. He had brought her here out of concern to try and return her to happiness. Even Erik had to admit to such a thing. And yet she did not understand the sacrifice her husband was making for that happiness by the fact that he had to return her to the other man that was once in her life. Erik was less than thrilled about them sitting with him, yet he did not want to miss Laurette's performance.
He sighed. "Yes."
"Thank you," said Raoul standing up and collecting Christine's cloak.
"I will instruct a few members of the Company to watch for you. They will escort you to the box."
Christine allowed Raoul to place the cloak around her. Erik was trying not to look at her damn cleavage again. His body was betraying him as thoughts swirled around in his head to be with Laurette once more. A beautiful woman such as Christine was not helping him at the moment. She flashed a shy smile at him and he gave no reaction, not wanting her to see any trace of affection from him.
Erik struggled through the next few days. He was unusually quiet around the Company and he knew he was withdrawing once more. But the continued pattern of Laurette's absence was wearing on him. He looked forward to every moment he could have with her only to deal once more with pain when she was taken away from him.
Climbing the secret staircase to Box 5, Erik grimaced at the thought of sitting with Raoul and Christine this evening. When he arrived, they were already seated and Raoul was holding her hand. Erik was extremely lonely in this moment.
"Good evening," Raoul said greeting him. "I would stand but…,"
"There is no need," replied Erik hastily. "I do not need any further attention drawn here than necessary."
"How are you Erik?" asked Christine politely.
Sitting down in the seat behind the curtain Erik looked at her. Her face looked actually radiant with color. She was the most elegant, graceful looking woman he had ever seen. He swore all it would take for her to hypnotize him would be her voice singing to the heavens.
"I am fine." He did not feel like making conversation but much to his annoyance, Raoul continued.
"Are they nervous?"
"Who?"
"The Company."
Erik shook his head, taking his eyes away from Christine who was distracting him. "Not as nearly for this performance. This is quite a nice break for them in this concert style."
Fortunately before Raoul could say anything else, the lights dimmed and the performance was soon underway. The orchestra played their section splendidly and the dancers were a perfect representation of grace on the stage. Justine of course was his normal impressive self with Erik swearing he smiled at every available woman he could lay his eyes on in the audience. Julia also did very well.
Finally Laurette's performance began. The music had an introduction piece and she did not appear onstage at first. When she did, she walked slowly from the middle of the backstage with Phillipe expertly creating the cascading evening. It almost looked like she slowly appeared through the mist as in some dream. She wore a dark blue cape with a hood that hid her head so that only her white angel face could be seen.
She began to sing.
Erik's jaw almost dropped at the sound of it as he listened. She was singing with feeling, true feeling. He could tell the moment he heard her voice. He listened closely to the words:
Darkness falls with a sad awakening call
But then the moon I see, a light beckoning me
He is here with me always; He is here in my dreams
I love only him, I sing for only him, my love, my life
And as I hear the evening clock tick, the darkness becomes my music
Erik could not take his eyes off of her. During the last part of the song, she actually turned and sang directly to box 5. Even though it was dark and no one could see anyone seated in the audience, she looked directly at him. As the music swelled and her notes reached the highest climax, she brushed back the hood of the cloak and her hair fell down all around her in a dramatic effect with her emotion of the song. There before him, before the audience, she stood with her head high and sang her love to him with full emotion.
When the song ended only then did Erik realize his chest was tight as he had not been breathing. The audience was on their feet including Raoul followed by Christine reluctantly. She looked at him and suddenly stopped applauding.
He was still staring at Laurette on the stage, aching as he saw tears fall from her eyes at the end of the song. She gave a quick bow to the audience and quickly exited the stage before the curtain even came down. He abruptly stood up from his seat and left. Taking the steps two at a time, he hurried down to the Music Room. When he arrived she was already there, alone. He stepped inside the room and she turned to look at him.
He strode over to her and captured her face with his hands.
"You sang for me," he said hoarsely and fastened his lips over hers.
She kissed him back almost fiercely, allowing him to have his way. She was so soft, warm and inviting. If she would just let him carry her back to her room…
"Madame?" It was Gautier's voice.
Laurette slowly pulled away.
"I-I am sorry, but Monsieur Garier is demanding for you to see him so he can escort you to the evening's ball."
Erik looked at her with sorrow. Her face became almost rigid, expressionless. She turned and fled the room. Erik was left standing there feeling like his heart had been torn out. Monsieur Garier was only adding one more spear that Erik was going to use on him, to torture him to death.
Trembling, he took the back secret passageway. But instead of walking to Laurette's suite, Erik turned and slowly walked below. He carefully avoided the traps, relieved to see no further bodies of anyone who had stumbled upon any of them. Those deaths were still a complete mystery to him, a thought he did not feel like exploring at the moment.
Arriving at his old home, he studied his room carefully. The various music sheets lying out on the piano, books of fiction and history lay neatly on his shelves, and the artwork of portraits that were displayed on the wall by the bed including the picture of Christine he had memorized from staring at it for long periods of time.
None of it mattered anymore. His former life was gone. His only life was now Laurette. Even the music no longer mattered. Christine had been right – at one time music was the only thing he had in life. But no more. It was nothing without Laurette. All at once he knew what he had to do to at least keep some sanity for his sake, for everyone's sake. He turned and walked slowly back up to the opera house.
Arriving at the library, he was hoping for a nice cup of hot tea and a quiet evening for his thoughts. But he frowned as he saw Christine waiting. Raoul was no where in sight.
"What do you want Christine?" he asked remerging from the shadows.
"Do I have to want something? Am I not allowed just to talk to you?"
Erik did not feel like a conversation with her at the moment. His thoughts were too taken by Laurette. "Where is Raoul?"
"He is talking with some high profile business liaisons of course."
"And should you not be with him?"
"Why?"
"Because I thought he said you should be re-introduced to the public," replied Erik impatiently. He turned his head to Maria who had arrived and handed Christine a glass of wine. "Would you please bring me some tea?" he asked.
"Of course!" She scurried back to the kitchen
"I will have plenty of time to have such conversations at the ball," said Christine as she sipped wine from the goblet.
Erik sighed. He wanted to be alone. "So what do you wish to discuss?"
"Must I have a specific topic? I thought I would just spend some time with you while I wait for Raoul."
"Fine," snapped Erik thinking with Laurette there was never a need to even think about what to talk about, "Shall we discuss the weather?"
"Why are you being like this?"
"I do not know what you are talking about."
"You are still so…bitter towards me. It seems you have still not forgiven me."
"It has nothing to do with that."
"Than what is it?"
Erik clenched his jaw. Now more than ever he had no desire to talk to Christine about his heart. Maria entered the room bringing the tea set on a try. "Take it to my room," he said to her.
Maria stopped and nodded her head respectfully. But he saw her give almost a sly smile to Christine who in return glared at her.
"Is this not Madame Duprey's suite?" asked Christine looking at him again.
Erik realized his mistake in saying the words "my room". The truth was he now felt like it was his room, especially when Laurette was there. "There are more than a few bedrooms in this opera house. Do I not deserve the right to stay in one like a human being?" he asked throwing her off track of what she was thinking.
"Of course you do. I am happy that you are not staying…where you used to."
Erik said nothing in response.
"Well?"
Erik stared at her blankly.
"What is bothering you?" she demanded.
He shook his head. "I am just…tired. It takes a lot of energy to prepare a Company for an entire performance."
"You are tired." She looked at him with complete disbelief.
"Yes."
"I remember a time when we used to stay up all night practicing endlessly. You did not seem to be tired even after that."
"Well I am now," said Erik irritably. "I will see you at our next lesson." Before she could say anything else, he crossed the room and disappeared into Laurette's suite. He found Maria pouring him a cup of hot tea on the small table near the armchair in front of the fireplace. She straightened and walked around him. He automatically allowed her to take his jacket off.
"Will there be anything else?" she asked sincerely.
"Yes, please call Dr. Charette and let him know I would like to see him when his schedule permits."
She gave him that damn sweet knowing smile and left the room. Erik sank in the chair and warmed his hands with the tea cup. He stared into the fire and had thoughts of holding Monsieur Garier's head in the flames.
"What are you doing here?" Erik heard Dion's voice outside of the suite.
"What does it matter to you?" snapped Christine's voice.
"Madame Duprey is not here."
"Do you think I would not know? Maria is here of course to tell me such things."
"Yes, it would be hardly unlikely for you to actually pour a glass of wine for yourself."
Erik winced and closed his eyes. Dion's comment was not helping in the scheme of things at the moment.
"Why are you here?" Dion asked.
"I only stopped by to talk to…."
"Who?"
"Well…you-you are one of the members of the Company?"
"Yes."
"Oh…so you would know about…"
"The Maestro?"
"Y-yes. I stopped by to see him."
"For a lesson? It is rather late for such a thing."
"No…I just wanted to speak with him."
"Where is your husband?" asked Dion with a low voice. In some ways Erik was grateful for Dion trying to make Christine leave. On the other hand, it was none of his business as to their relationship in the first place.
"I was…I am waiting for him."
"Should you not be with him in such a social event? I would not like to think you would let Madame Duprey down as she is working so hard. I believe you have to do some of the work to return to the stage."
Erik braced himself for Christine's biting response but was surprised. "Yes…of-of course. I better go."
"Yes, I think that would be a good choice Countess."
Erik stirred slightly and slowly got up when he heard Dion knock on the door. Opening it, he looked at him. "Yes?"
"I have a letter from Madame Duprey."
"Thank you." He took the letter but Dion stood there still. "Is there anything else?"
"Are you certain you can trust a woman such as the Countess Maestro?"
Erik was not certain how to react. First, it was unlike Dion to ask such a personal, direct question of him. Second, he was concerned that Dion would even worry about trust with someone who Laurette had placed her confidence in. "Why do you ask?"
"I just want to be sure," said Dion quietly. "Madame has already drained herself of so much strength. I would not like for anyone to fail her."
"I will not fail her Dion."
"Yes, of course." He bowed his head. "I will see you tomorrow."
Nodding, Erik quietly closed the door and sat back down in the armchair, eagerly opening Laurette's letter. She must have written it to him before the performance and brought it with her to give to Dion.
Erik,
I am so frightened as I write this. I am afraid when I am on stage. But I will picture only you in my mind tonight. I know I can do this. For you. I love you so much that it truly frightens me. None of this is beginning to matter anymore. I only want to be with you. I do not know what I am doing. I said at one time that at least I would die doing something that I at least love. But if I were to never direct again and yet be with you, I now realize I would still be doing something I love. Spending my life WITH the one I love. If you ask me, I will stop all of this. I do not care about anything except being with you.
I love you,
Laurette
Erik closed his eyes feeling the temptation sweep through him. She was now admitting, allowing the opportunity for him to take her, to keep her. But Laurette was now mentally and physically wary. Would she regret her decision? Christine was showing promise and he knew she would soon be ready. He was beginning to believe that the plan might work. Monsieur Garier would have no choice but to allow Christine to sing the lead. He doubted he would fully let Laurette simply go and most likely would place her back into the director role – the publicity of Christine upstaging Laurette and as a result having to direct her would be more than enough to keep the public's interest.
A few hours later into the evening along with several composed music sheets, Erik rubbed his neck at the desk in Laurette's sitting room. Christine had been right in the fact that he rarely was tired at night. He was still awake much of the time and he threw himself into composing music furiously to avoid his thoughts on Laurette.
He suddenly heard a knock at the door. It was late and Maria had already retired for the evening. Erik cautiously approached the door.
"Erik? It is only me, Paul."
Erik breathed a sigh of relief and opened the door. "I did not expect you to come this night," he said with a smile in his voice. If there was anyone Erik could relate to most it was Dr. Charrette. Although older, he was closer in Erik's age and experience.
Paul shrugged. "I was making my usual nightly rounds when I received your message. I was over this way to check on a patient, so I cannot stay long. Although perhaps in a day or so I can come back to try my hand at finally defeating you in chess."
Erik gave a slight laugh and fell in step with him walking over to the balcony. Erik had left the French doors open and the cool breeze was blowing in. He was about to close them due to the cold but the doctor suddenly stepped out onto the balcony.
"It is really a beautiful night. You can see the stars so brightly this evening. It is the one thing I at least do enjoy working at night," said Paul looking up into the sky. "But it sometimes makes me miss Mary." He turned back to Erik. "And then I rush straight home," he said with a smile.
Erik smiled in return. "How did you meet her?"
"She was in the nearby nursing school while I was studying to become a doctor of course. I saw her one day walking with a group of girls. Every single one of them was beautiful, but she was the one I could not stop staring at." He grinned. "I was so obvious that she came right up to me and asked me what was wrong. I was so surprised that I lied and said I wasn't feeling well. That's when she revealed that she was studying to become a nurse. I had to fake being sick for a week so she would keep seeing me," he laughed.
"How did you decide to ask her to marry you?"
"I always knew from the moment I met her that I would. But she came from a very prominent family so I was determined to make a name for myself. Her father reluctantly gave me his blessing as I was so poor at the time. But I worked relentlessly impressing everyone and soon had more wealth than her family. Only then did I realize it meant nothing. She was all that mattered in the end. She is the only thing that matters to me now."
Erik bit his lip thinking of Laurette and walked over to the railing. He stared out into the city, the glow of the lights cascading over the streets. "I was wondering if you would do something for me."
Paul came beside Erik at the rail. "Of course."
Erik turned and faced him. "I was wondering if you would purchase a ring for me."
"A ring? What kind of ring? Wait…," said Paul as it was suddenly dawning on him what Erik was asking, "I do not believe I am the one who should be selecting something so important."
"You know I cannot. There is no one else that I trust to do such a thing for me."
The doctor was silent for a moment and finally nodded. "Alright Erik."
Erik reached into his pocket and handed Paul an envelope. He opened it slightly and a shocked look crossed his face. "With this much you could have any ring you wanted Erik. Dare I ask how you got this money?"
"Let's just say it kept the Opera Ghost away for a time with one of the previous owners."
Paul shook his head but was smiling. "I will do my best."
"Thank you."
"And get some rest will you Erik? Mary at least helps me during the day so I can sleep but with Laurette gone, I know you continue to work day and night." He smiled for a moment. "Not that you really get much sleep when she is here with you."
Erik gave a light laugh and grinned sheepishly in return at the doctor. "It is all I can do not to be with her every moment. It is as if she can cast a spell on me any time she wants. How is it that one woman can have such power?"
"All women do Erik. All women do."
Andre was grinning when he finished the song they had been practicing on as he saw Erik actually smiling at him. He was pleased that Andre continued to improve and almost laughed as Justine scowled at his praising remarks.
"Well you still have a long way to learn as far as courting women," smirked Justine. "I cannot believe you left so early last night."
Andre shook his head. "I really was tired Justine."
"From what? At least give a woman the opportunity to give you an excuse to make you tired."
Andre fiddled with the music sheets he was holding from the song. Erik busied himself with making a few changes to the score but was listening. "It just doesn't…I mean, Justine you don't need me there."
"What do you mean? You are a great friend. I like having you with me."
"But I'm never really with you Justine. You have a crowd of women around you each time we go out."
"Oh and like a few women don't pay attention to you?"
"That's not the point! I mean…I just want-,"
"What?"
"Something more," Andre said quietly.
"You mean more women?"
"No," said Andre now looking flustered. "I would be satisfied with…one woman. Or even just…spending some quiet time alone with you and having a good time."
"We have a good time!"
Justine looked at Andre puzzled while Erik smiled to himself. Andre had too kind of a heart to be so like Justine. Maybe he should encourage Julia to spend more time with Andre…
"I promise I will show you a great time tonight," said Justine throwing his arm around Andre's shoulder.
Andre shook him off. "No, I promised my Uncle I would stop by to have dinner with my Aunt again."
"Ok, so stop by the tavern afterwards…"
"No Justine, I need to get up early so I can be here."
"I'm here early and you don't see that stopping me."
"No…I need to be here…earlier than you."
Justine froze. "What?"
Andre glanced at Erik who continued to silently work on the score. "I…I have been coming here before you each morning."
"I never see you."
"Well, no…I wasn't sure how to tell you…,"
"Tell me what? Wait, are you saying…," Justine looked at Erik. "You are taking singing lessons with him before I arrive?"
Andre said nothing.
"I see." He drew a breath and smiled at Andre. "I have to admit it is working," he said softly although Erik could still hear him. Justine grinned. "But you will never out sing me my friend."
"No?"
"No."
"Perhaps you should have more faith in your friend."
"Oh I do. In fact, I'm willing to bet you three drinks that you land a leading role someday outside of Paris."
Andre grinned. "I'll bet you four."
Erik shook his head although he was pleased the two were still getting along despite the fact that Andre was excelling in maturity beyond Justine. He wished some of that maturity would rub off on Justine.
He glanced towards the side of the stage and saw Phillipe looking quite glum. Maurice had been paying less attention to his brother these days. Julia had told him that Maurice was now seeing someone. Phillipe was not taking to the situation well and at times even appeared angry at his brother. Erik would have easily empathized with Phillipe as he himself was without a woman's love for so long in his life. But Phillipe actually showed little interest in women. At one time, Erik even noticed that Melanie had shown some extra affection to Phillipe. Despite being small, he was actually not a bad looking man. But Phillipe usually ignored her. His only desire seemed to be working on the sets.
"Phillipe," called Erik trying to get his mind off of his brother. "Would you please set up Act Four? Also, I need you to come up with some more ideas for the last scene. I'd like it to be brighter."
Phillipe immediately jumped up and ran to the stage, pulling down parts of the current set. Julia was walking by and when Phillipe accidentally dropped some flowers he was carrying off, she bent down to help him. He frowned and grabbed them from her. But before he could run off, Julia in her forward nature stopped him.
"I was only trying to help you."
He froze, looking down and unsure of what to say.
"Well you could apologize."
Philippe blinked and looked at her as if to motion he was unable to do such a thing.
"You could give me at least some gesture."
Embarrassed, Phillipe thought for a moment as he most likely realized he never had such a gesture. He placed his hand to his heart and bowed old world style before her.
"Thank you." Julia smiled at him and suddenly reached out and gave him a huge hug. Shocked, Phillipe struggled against her and breaking free, he ran from her. Julia laughed and beamed at Erik. "I just could not resist."
Erik shook his head smiling at her but frowned when he saw Justine come up behind her. "I've insulted you many times and you've never given me a hug," he said with a smirk.
"That's because you are not as cute as Phillipe," she said and began to walk off the stage.
Justine shackled her wrist.
"How dare you! Let go of me!"
He stood there impassively for a moment, looking at her, studying her face. Julia's eyes became wide and Erik realized Justine was moving in closer to her face. "Please let go of me," she whispered.
Erik stood up and glared at Justine.
He gazed at her for a brief moment longer, enduring Erik's burning eyes, and lightly let go of Julia's wrist. She slowly took a few steps back, almost stumbling, and then fled from the stage.
"A word with you," said Erik in a low voice. Justine clenched his jaw in response and walked down the steps off of the stage. He stood straight and tall before Erik, rigid with unfeeling coldness. "Except for your relationship onstage you will stay away from Julia," said Erik with a threatening tone.
"I don't want to be anywhere near her except onstage."
"I see. Than explain to me why you touched her that way."
"She was just…annoying me."
"That does not mean you need to touch her or make any further degrading remarks. Did you know that she has been thinking of leaving the Company even earlier than she planned due to your relentless treatment of her?"
Justine looked shocked for a moment. "Well, no…I did not think-,"
"You did not think, that is the point," interrupted Erik.
"Maestro, I did not mean her any…I mean I would never want her to leave the Company, if ever." Justine hesitated as if he had just admitted to actually wanting Julia around. "I mean, she is meant to be here, not with some wealthy husband just to sit around all day."
"What does it matter to you Justine?" Erik asked in exasperation. "As far as I am concerned I want Julia to finish the year out and so should you. She is what Madame Duprey and I need to help us in this trying time."
Justine's face softened. "Yes Maestro. I am…I am sorry."
"Good. Now go warm up some more."
"I will go apologize to Julia first."
"You will do no such thing," said Erik flatly. "Leave her alone and only converse with her on the songs you are singing as a duet. Understood?"
Justine frowned but nodded. He briskly walked by Erik to the side of the theater where the rest of the chorus was warming up. Erik sighed and looked at his pocket watch. It was going to be a very long rehearsal today.
Finally by late day Erik ended rehearsal and warily walked backstage. Armond almost ran right into him. "Have you seen Dion?"
"No," replied Erik assuming he was most likely seeing to those keeping a look out for security purposes.
"He's been gone most of the day. Sometimes he just disappears like that."
"Well he is lucky that I have not needed him and discovered he was gone."
Armond's face filled with worry. "Oh I did not mean to get him in trouble or anything Maestro, please…,"
Erik waved him off. "It is fine, so long as he does not interrupt with our rehearsal needs. Where do you think he is?" For a brief moment, Erik felt a stab of fear with his memory of the traps down below.
Armond shrugged. "I'm not sure. He was talking about tracking down that publisher. I know he left the Opera House. He is very dedicated to Madame Duprey and he is always trying to help so hard."
"Yes," said Erik nodding and somewhat relieved that Dion had not ventured elsewhere within the Opera House. "We are lucky to have both of you."
"Thank you, although I wish we were both around a little more often," he said sighing.
Erik smiled, patted him on the shoulder and moved off to the secret corridor. He was actually hungry and smiled broadly as Maria greeted him with the dining room fully set tonight. She was serving one of his favorite dishes. It would be even more perfect if Laurette was sitting at the table.
He was just finishing the meal and glancing over more of the score when Maria came in. "Dr. Charette is here," she said as she reached out to take the dishes. She smiled as she saw his plate was empty.
Erik nodded in thanks and made his way to the library where Paul was standing out on the balcony looking over the city. "I did not expect you back tonight," said Erik walking up to him.
Paul smiled. "Yes, well I have something that could not wait. I have to return it by tomorrow." He walked over to one of the armchairs and pulled out a very large velvet black box. Unsnapping the front, the doctor very carefully opened it and set it on the table in front of him. There before Erik were at least twenty diamond rings of various sizes and shapes, glittering in all directions.
Erik was dumbfounded. "How were you able to do this?"
"I treated a little girl with the flu not long ago. Her father owns an exclusive jewelry shop." Paul straightened a bit. "Of course if I were to lose this it would mean my head."
Erik frowned. "You took a terrible chance carrying this around Paul. What if you had been robbed?"
"I was careful."
"None the less, I shall walk with you when you return this to him. It is too dangerous with how dark it is and you know it."
"Yes, yes Erik. Now stop worrying and select one."
Erik studied the rings. But his eyes went directly to one that stood out among the rest. It was the only diamond surrounded by color. It was an oval diamond nestled in a fire of rubies, sapphires and emeralds surrounding it. It was very elegant and completely different, just like Laurette. He reached out and picked up the ring. It was perfect.
Paul widely smiled at him. "It matches her perfectly."
"You knew I would select this one."
He shrugged in response. "It was the only one in his shop with any color. I had to bring it with me. But I had to still believe I gave you a choice."
Erik laughed and slipped the ring inside his inner coat pocket. He looked at Paul. "Thank you."
"And may I be the first to present both of you with a wedding gift. Mary and I own a small chateau in the country. It is completely secluded and will provide the perfect privacy for both of you to take a trip alone after you wed."
Erik's eyes widened a bit. "Thank you, however, I do not think there will be such a ceremony of course."
"What do you mean?"
"I do not think Laurette and I would risk such a thing with our secrets," replied Erik. No one could know Laurette was involved, least at all, with an Opera Ghost who was known for a gruesome past.
"I have a very good friend who is a priest Erik."
"I do not believe even a priest could keep something so secret."
"This one can. I would trust him with my life."
Erik let out a breath and smiled. "We will see, but I believe I need to concentrate on making Laurette promise that she will be mine first."
"I am sure she has already done that," said Paul smiling.
"Until I have this ring on her finger I will not believe such a thing," Erik said remembering how he felt when Christine had not wanted such a thing.
"Yes, you apparently have quite a hard time believing that love could happen to you Erik."
"And you wonder why?"
"I do not wonder why you have such a hard time understanding how it could happen. I only know that it is possible for anyone. It is a matter of finding that person."
Erik pursed his lips slightly and shook his head. "You have been a good friend Paul." He felt a stab of guilt regarding Paul's sister.
The doctor smiled. "You will not say such a thing the day I beat you at chess."
Erik laughed lightly. "That day will never come my friend. Come, we will begin to walk to the jewelry shop to return the case."
"Really Erik, I am fine."
"I insist."
The doctor firmly shook his head but before he knew it he found himself walking alongside Erik in the blackness of the night in the streets. He blinked for a moment, not recalling even how he got there. He glanced at Erik. "Was I drinking?"
Erik laughed. "No."
Paul brought his hand up to his forehead and rubbed it a bit while they walked. "I am getting too damn old," he muttered.
Erik patted him on the shoulder as they walked. "Or your mind is weaker than you thought."
"What is that supposed to mean?"
"Nothing of course." Erik smiled inwardly. He did not want to force anyone to do anything with such a talent that he had. But when it came to things he really needed or someone's safety such as with the doctor, he would take no chances.
Erik hid in the shadows as Paul walked across the street to the jewelry shop. The owner had given him a key and he quickly disappeared inside to return the box with the money for the ring Erik selected. The wind was blowing quite hard and Erik's cloak was whipping around him. The silence of the city was eerie, even more so tonight when Erik was used to it. He kept his eyes alert, but saw no one.
Paul emerged and walked back over to Erik. "All finished. You know, my home in the city is not very far. Would you like to have some hot tea before you return to the Opera House?"
With the cold night setting in Erik could not resist the invitation and followed Paul down the streets. Once in a while they would see a person walking and Erik would quickly pull back into the shadows. Paul would walk slowly ahead, patiently waiting for the person to disappear until it was safe for Erik to return by his side.
"Perhaps I am the one protecting you," laughed Paul as Erik caught up to him.
"If that illusion makes you feel better, than I will not stop you from thinking such a thing."
"I never have any problems."
"You usually travel by carriage," Erik pointed out.
A shadow suddenly crossed their paths and Erik quickly fell behind in step. But as Paul slowed, a very tall man with ragged clothes was approaching. He had black hair with an unshaven face. Uneasiness set in as the man stopped to look at Paul. His eyes seemed to be as black as the night.
"May I help you?" asked Paul when the stranger blocked his path only a few feet from him.
The man gave an evil grin. But it quickly disappeared when Erik stepped forth from the shadows. Still behind Paul, Erik's eyes narrowed as he tilted his head down at the man.
"No, just walkin' somewheres," said the man and hastily retreated to the other side of the street. Erik stepped back into the shadows.
Paul smiled and looked behind him. "You see Erik? I am fine."
"Of course," said Erik acting as if he was just walking out for the first time since the stranger had crossed Paul's path.
"Yes of course," said Paul with an air of confidence, "I am not that old. I would be able to defend myself quite easily."
Erik smiled and walked in step with Paul. Arriving in front of the doctor's house, Erik was impressed. It was a very quaint building, warm and inviting. The stone steps outside had been smoothly carved into a curved staircase that led to the door. Entering into the forier, another beautiful curved staircase made out of cherry wood welcomed him. The walls were wallpapered in blue with yellow flowers. Artwork abounded on the walls, beautiful peaceful scenic landscapes brilliant with color. He could also see a library of sorts in the room to the left lined with books from floor to ceiling.
"Erik! What a lovely surprise!" exclaimed Mary. Erik was surprised himself that she was awake at this time of night. She did not even bat an eye with the fact that she was in a nightdress and robe.
"Good evening," he said politely. He was taken aback when she came forward and linked her arm around his, leading the way down the hall.
"I was up checking on a patient staying here and waiting for Paul as usual," she said in a mocking tone.
"You love waiting for me," said Paul behind them as they walked down the hall.
"I have had plenty of practice over the years," Mary said with a laugh. They entered a large dining room, the walls a deep red outlined in gold ornate details on the baseboard trim. "Sit Erik. I will get some nice hot tea to warm you. Let me take your cloak."
"Thank you," Erik replied handing his cloak to her. Paul shrugged his jacket off and Mary seemed to bounce her way back to the kitchen. "She reminds me of Maria at times," Erik said somewhat amused.
"Well I think she misses having guests like we used to. The only guests we have now generally are patients."
"Why is that? Are you really such an outcast?"
Paul smiled. "Yes and no. There are still many we consider as friends and who do occasionally see us. But it is dangerous for even them to be associated with me if they have anything to do with medicine. I could ruin their reputation."
Erik shook his head while standing up and walking over to the fireplace to warm his hands. "I am glad none of it stops you from doing what you believe to be right." He studied a painting framed in gold on the wall. It was a small cottage in the Spring with wild flowers abundant throughout the landscape.
"That is our summer cottage I was telling you about. The one you and Laurette will use after you are married." Paul said it mater of face, as if he were giving Erik no choice in the matter.
Studying the painting Erik knew Laurette would love such a place. It was peaceful and full of life, exactly what they both needed to be left alone. He closed his eyes just for a moment, silently wishing such a dream would come true. A dream to be alone with her and no fear of Monsieur Garier or anyone else trying to take her away from him ever again.
For the remainder of the evening Erik found himself feeling some actual happiness as he talked into the night with Paul and Mary. He held Laurette's ring in his jacket pocket, close to his heart. This was a home truly of love as he enjoyed listening to Mary's laughter and Paul's teasing. They were two people who truly enjoyed life, no matter what others thought. He respected them greatly.
In the early morning hours Erik climbed into his own bed, grateful that there was no rehearsal tomorrow. Thoughts of Laurette swirled in his head and he closed his eyes.