Diamonds in the rough

by Mia-Purdy

What if Erik had been more honest with Christine? What if he had acted quicker? What if Christines father didnt simply die of illness but was murdered? What if Christine didnt remember Raoul as much as he would like? A different retelling of the story with more twists along the way. Kay/Kopit/ALW/Leruox influences. E/C eventually.

36. Chapter 36

Thank you all! Big bunches of Erik roses to every one of you, your reviews make me smile so much, your all so perfect! And love to all the people who favourited and followed too! Ah you're all so amazingly flattering! I would thank you all individually but your all so great so *Life supply of Erik made clothes for you all* even if you just read this.

Oh and I got asked again, I'm 16 years old by the way, I didn't know if you wanted to know that, but there you go haha.

I hope you all have your ball gowns/suits at the ready! :D

Ohhh and the Christine in my head is a young Anna O'Byrne in looks, but that's just me, feel free to let me know who/what you think Christine in this story is like!

Hope you enjoy it

*Once again all ownership goes to the rightful people; just making sure you all knew that ;)

Chapter 36-Eriks POV

We had visited Christine's father's grave, she had skipped ahead of me and sat crossed legged at the large marble stone face, rubbing her hands over its face, removing the trickles of rain. I had stood behind her, nervously looking left to right, praying no one would see me. When I had looked upon her, her tiny figure, looked so lost and helpless, as it sat on the wet ground, the looming concrete angels and marble graves made her look like a lost child. I had taken a step towards her, in fear the angels would steal her from me, return her to the heavens where she belonged. But she had turned to me, with her blue eyes full of tears, but she was smiling.

'I think Papa likes you Erik.' She had whispered her mouth smiling, as if sharing some secret. 'Oh feel the stones warm, it's like he's smiling.' She had taken my hand in hers and pressed it against the warm marble. I didn't want to burst her bubble and tell her it was the warmth of the rain. To Christine everything was magical. She was a magic herself, a beautiful magic, like a creature of fable, a unicorn or fairy that may disappear at any moment. It was like I was seeing her for the first time again. My heart felt warm. It had pained me how she had cried over the thought of her Papas death; I knew full well what it was like to suffer from torturous memories, I wished to rage about the murderers, how dare they make Christine feel my pain. But then I remembered I was a murderer too. The pain Christine was feeling, was probably the pain I had inflicted on others. I was repulsed at myself, disgusted. I was in the same league as these murderers. If only I could take it all back, but I couldn't no matter how hard I wished or pretended, what was done was done.

I had more pressing matters to deal with, with hope I had silenced the little Giry. It hadn't taken much, she was a very ditsy young girl, all over the place, a very talented dancer, but had the attention plan of a gnat, whilst she had been busying herself with getting ready to spill the news of Christine having some kind of acquaintance with the Phantom of the Opera, I had slipped in through the door, silent, and stolen the letter once more. I watched her spin around, looking for it everywhere, without it she had no proof, without it she had nothing; I saw her look around as if expecting to see me there.

'I know your there. I know you're watching. Please don't hurt Christine, I promise I won't tell anyone, just don't hurt her.' She whimpered her back to where I was. I smiled, she didn't need to worry, this girl seemed to be a good friend to Christine, I was glad she had someone else looking out for her. Someone less scary and hidden.

She had been easy to deal with, however the recent news from Nadir about the Vicomtes watches worried me, he would know now that it had all been a lie, and that would lead to problems. This would clarify that I had another residence, one I knew he would be more determined to find this time. I could deal with that, if he came after me alone. I could set traps work against him, this was my domain, my territory and I would use that home advantage to the fullest. However, I could not just worry for myself; there was this evening's ball to consider, whenever I thought of this ball, my stomach went cold, and dread filled me. Something wasn't right. I wanted to put a stop to it all, I didn't want Christine attending. That insolent boy, would have her all to himself, to show her off, to pretend he owned her. I couldn't bear the thought, of him dancing with her, dragging her around. No, I couldn't have it. I was almost tempted to take up her offer of attending, just so I could watch over her, be there for her if she needed me, and keep the boy in check. But she would at least have Nadir, a much as I disliked to say it I did trust the man, he knew how much Christine meant to me, he would guard her with his life.

I finished up Christine's dress, it was good, I didn't know if she would like it, but I felt like it was special, it was rather plain, in a pale pink material, which was soft and when it caught the light shimmered slightly, it went out at the hips largely into that desired ball gown shape, the front was in a v shape, and around that I had stitched a small line of lace, the back was brought into a large bow, which in the middle of I had put a dyed pink rose, it was as I said rather plain, I had made pink long gloves and found a pair of satin dress boots to match. It didn't look like much as I hung it on the back of my chair, but I knew it would be Christine that would bring it to life, make it beautiful. That was if she wanted to wear it, I wouldn't be offended if she didn't.

I sighed, checking my pocket watch, the ball was straight after the performance, Christine's first performance back as Prima Donna, I had all the faith in the world toward her, I would be there in box five, it was a risk, but I needed to be there for her, I wasn't going to leave her alone. She had asked for my guidance and I would give it. I began to pace up and down my lair, wondering where on this planet Nadir was. I needed to talk to him before the performance, mainly about the ball, but he was, in true Persian fashion, late. I would wring his neck if I missed so much as a second of Christine's performance, I wished to see her before she went on the stage, Id see her after, in order to give her my dress. Again the feeling of dread returned, I didn't want her to go, I didn't want her to spend a second longer than she already had in the Vicomtes company. A thousand problems went around and around my head. Then the door opened.

'About time!' I roared, I regretted it straight away, and couldn't help but laugh as Nadir entered the room, newly shaven, his greying hair slicked back under a top hat, and in rather ill fitting dress robes, which his stomach poked out off.

'Don't laugh at me Erik!' he growled back, shooting me a filthy look. 'Let's get down to business.'

'Yes, this ball. I want you watching Christine, don't take your eyes off her, look after her for me, don't let her drink anything unless you've checked it, scan the room, I want that insolent boy being watched at all times. If he as so much as dances with her without offering her a rest I will go back on our promise and kill him. I want her to be treated with respect at all times, if anything, I mean anything goes wrong or seems ill, bring her back. I will not have her harmed.' I was listing things in my head, as I paced, I trusted her to keep safe, and for Nadir too look after her. Then I heard him laugh. I glared at him.

'Oh Erik, you are in love aren't you? I promise to look after her; I'm flattered you're trusting me. Though I do wish you would come too, I think Christine would rather like you there.' He smiled.

'No. I cannot attend, somehow I don't think the Vicomte would appreciate my being there, and besides the crowds I'm not ready.' I sighed, beckoning him along with my filled hands, as I tied on my cloak, folded the dress and shut the patent door.

'Maybe if you had Christine you could face them, you did that time previous.'

I was shaking I wished I could go with her, but the thought of all those people made me tremble, it was aggravating, and frustrating, and not something I needed the Persian bringing up.

'Yes maybe I could with Christine. But I' am not attending. Now shall we go and watch my angel or are we going to stand here all night.' I growled, watching Nadir shaking his head, as I stormed off into the darkness.

Everyone was up on their feet. Everyone. The sea of the audience were happy to have Christine back, they cheered, tossed flowers and clapped even louder every time she gave a nervous bow. I stood in my box, invisible and clapped, however I noticed how Christine gave a few glances towards my box as she smiled and scooped up the many flowers which were building up around her ankles now. I was beyond relieved and proud, she had done beautifully, not that I had expected any less from such an angel, but she seemed to show little nerves, just her usual smiley shyness as she had walked onto the stage, it was to be expected in someone so young. The curtain closed, and the audience was left in a buzz, still getting over the climax they had just endured and many getting ready to depart to the Vicomtes ball. This had been the part I was dreading, I had forgotten all about it through her performance, and now she had finished and I was back to earth my stomach felt like a lead weight. I slipped into my black corridor, noticing the many crowds of people which lined up to meet the star or even gaze a look upon her; I knew many were apprehensive to meet her before the ball so they could claim they were 'friends.' I held the dress in my hands, checking the time in the dark. I prayed Christine had remembered our time to meet, and pushed open the little trap door into her dressing room. I was met by her smiles; before I even got through the door she was questioning me with unsure glances.

'Oh Maestro how do you think I did? Was I okay? I felt slightly off, gosh it was bad wasn't it.' She bit her lip, tugging at her curls to get them loose.

'Christine, you were perfect. I couldn't fault you, perhaps a little straighter in your posture, but then that's just me picking.' She burst into a giant smile, but had that look of concentration on her face obviously taking in my advice, which I found adorable. 'I have this for you, you don't have to wear it.' I spotted the garish red material dress in the corner, who on earth had picked that out for her? It was vile, it was the wrong colour for Christine, she was subtle and pretty, not a sharp foul woman begging for attention. I gave the dress to her, its pinkness shimmering, I watched her jaw drop.

'My goodness Erik, it's the single most beautiful thing I have ever seen.' Her eyes were wide as she picked it up giggling as she twirled with it, holding it close to her. I watched her with delight, she really liked it. I watched her place it down gently and then threw herself onto me, squeezing me tightly, whilst her little giggles sent vibrations through my body. I shook at first, that wave of self disgust running through me, then as I inhaled her rose smelling curls I used all my courage, to do what I had been working towards for several weeks. I held my breath and placed my violently shaking arms around her too, I didn't hold her tightly, just my arms around her, my fingers jumping as they shadowed past her curls. I watched as she looked at me in wonder, I gasped and let go, but she did not.

'I wish you could come with me tonight, Erik.' she sighed, and I cursed myself and my stupid fears.

'Mr Kahn will be there, he will be taking you there and bringing you back, any trouble go to him. And I mean any trouble Christine, the slightest thing, if you feel sick or anything, go to him, he will help and bring you home.' I was panicking, talking fast, trying to get it across to her how crucial it was if she needed help she seeked it.

'I promise Erik.' She smiled at me sweetly, giving me one last squeeze.

There was a knock at the door, we both jumped.

'I must go, but Christine remember what I said my child. Have fun, but please stay safe.' I was almost begging her, the knocking was getting louder.

'Just a moment,' Christine called to it 'but Maestro you wont see my in my gown!' she said sadly, her bottom lip dropping, I look a step forward from the hidden door, and put my hand out wishing I could touch her, but hastily dropped it again.

'I will look once your ready through the door, shout 'I'm ready' and I will see you. But I already you know you'll look heavenly.' I got a flash of her smile before I closed the door behind me and Madame Giry came bustling in, her daughter in toe.

I waited for what felt like an eternity in the dark, a thousand problems going through my head, worries and troubles. They were all put aside when I heard Christine's voice call:

'I'm ready.' I rose up on my toes and looked through the gap, she was stunning, her hair was down but pinned up in several places with little silver diamante pins, looking like she had captured the stars, the dress looked exquisite, and round her neck was the little rose necklace I gave to her. I had to catch my breath she was stunning, like a princess, no, she was better than any princess. I saw her look directly at were I was hiding. What made her most beautiful was her smile, she could of just been wearing rags it wouldn't of mattered, that smile put all the finest materials in the world to shame and the stars too. My heart lurched.

'Christine you look phenomenal.' Madame Giry gasped, her friend looked at her in pure envy.

'Thank you both.' She embraced them, but over their heads I saw her mouth 'thank you' to me. My heart felt like it would burst, I had to resist the erge to go into the room and sweep her off her feet. Not that would ever happen.

But then the door was knocked again, this time it was Nadir. There was icy tension between him and Madame Giry, but the two girls didn't seem to notice and continued giggling about 'princesses' and 'prince charming.' Nadir gave her many compliments, before leading her out the room through the noisy crowds.

The door shut. It's strange how a sound can be so symbolic; because just from that 'crack' I knew this was the start and end of something. Something that was making my stomach fill with dread.

XXX

Raouls POV

The guests had begun to arrive my vast driveway now filled with carriages, grand people now filled my large ball room, and many had began to fill the rest of my home as well. They were in all colours, shapes and sizes. But I didn't care for one of them; I stood with my brother on the first step of our grand stair case, both with plastered smiles on our faces, wishing people 'good evenings and splendid times,' when actually neither of us could care any less. I was beginning to get frustrated now, Christine still hadn't arrived, I had heard many people as they entered talk of her performance, all of them complemented her, I was glad, but saw at each mention of her name, my brother go a shade paler and his eyes even wider. Gosh, I can't imagine what he would look like when he actually saw her, I smiled, it would be quite a treat. The servants milled around carrying large trays off champagne, it was a rule of thumb to have a good ball, you kept the guests well hydrated. Philippe had walked off to go to the smoking room with some British member of parliament I didn't remember inviting. But then through the doors walked Christine, every head turned as she did so.

She looked fantastic, my jaw dropped, she was dressed in a pale pink, the gown seemed to float around her, I noticed rather annoyed that it wasn't the dress I had chosen. I didn't need three guesses to know who had picked it. But I continued looking at her, her cheeks slightly flushed with embarrassment, biting her lip in that way that fired up my inner most flames, and the little diamantes in her hair caught the light, every woman automatically became envious of her and every man wanted to know her name. To her side, was Nadir Kahn, I felt myself smirk, I was indeed pleased to see that he had come, I had many a treat in store for him. I bound down the steps, taking Christine's hands.

'My sweet Christine, how heavenly you look, though I notice that isn't my dress.' I smiled, though secretly cursed.

'Oh Raoul, I'm so sorry, it was lovely, I just fell in love with this dress.' She smiled nervously, her eyes darting side to side, at the people who had returned to their conversations, but all of which had changed and now discussed the new Prima Donna.

'Please don't be nervous Christine, come you will stay with me, I can show you to everyone.' I held her hands tighter, as I felt her turn to Nadir as if to protest.

'I would be more than happy to show Miss Daae round.' The Persian, purred in a slightly threatening way as he looked at my hands which were wrapped around Christine's.

'Oh Mr Kahn, I'd be more than happy to do so. Christine has promised me a dance or two.' I winked at Christine who laughed nervously and gave a little nod to Nadir; this irritated me, why were they speaking in some sort of code of nods and shakes.

'Okay Vicomte, I was promised a dance too, so Ill probably steal her off you at some point.' I smiled and gave a false laugh, as I began to steer Christine away. Not a bloody chance now I had Christine on my arm, she was mine for the duration of the ball, I certainly would not be sharing her with some sweaty Persian! I noticed Christine's little shakes, and trembles, as we walked through the crowds, everyone's heads turned, yes that is what I had wanted. Their eyes filled with envy, every one of them, trying to work out who she was. She was mine, and through the ball I'd show her how special being part of this way of life could be. It was bigger, better, more lavish and expensive than any other way of life. It was the best. But so far Christine just seemed nervous and scared, we reached the ball room now, the vast colours of twirling gowns and suit tails made it like a swirling rainbow, as the music filled the room.

'Christine, please don't be nervous, I will look after you.' I said, liking how she clung onto my arm with her small gloved hands.

'But they're all looking at me, like I'm a freak. Oh Raoul I don't belong here.' She whispered, as several more heads turned.

'Christine, they are all envious. You are by far the most beautiful girl here. They all are jealous of you for that, and jealous of me for having you on my arm.' I smiled at her, and felt her shaking hands tighten as a pair of men walked towards us, their dog like women hanging of their arms baring their teeth at the shaking Christine who smiled at them kindly. I mentally cheered they were the Panek brothers, both tall and very handsome, both very great huntsmen, just like their father.

'Ah Raoul, some ball you've put on. This has to be the best one of the season, quite a way to end the year.' Said the older brother Alexander, who seemed to notice Christine at the last moment, and took no shame in looking her up and down with his mouth slightly open.

'Good gosh, were he find you then?' he said his eyes still gazing her Christine's body, in a way that made me smile. He was jealous. Ha! This lack of eye contact, confused Christine, who didn't seem to notice he was talking to her, so there was a slight awkward pause before she stammered:

'I'm-Ch-Ch-ristine Daae sir, I'm the-the new Prima Donna.' I watched her look at the floor, biting her lip, as the dog like women, laughed and whispered.

'Gosh, you might need to teach her to talk Raoul!' Alexander laughed, shaking his head.

'The new Prima Donna! I thought I recognised you somewhere, your voice is splendid.' Oliver butted in, he was the younger brother, we all thought him rather wet, but I saw Christine smile.

'Thank you sir, your every kind.' She blushed, quietly, smiling sweetly, her grip loosening on my arm.

'Perhaps we could have a dance later on, I would love to talk to you about the Opera, I always wished to sing, but my family wouldn't permit it.' Oliver sighed, I rolled my eyes, he wouldn't be dancing with her.

'That would be lovely sir, that is such a shame about your singing. I'm sure your splendid, perhaps you could take lessons, then maybe your family will see your gifted and let you go after your dream.' Before Christine had even finished me and Alexander were laughing, bless her she didn't understand.

'A proper man never sings, only funny men sing, and half of them turn out to be women. A man who sings is wasting his time, why learn music when you could learn the art of women, or holding balls, they are much more attractive qualities wouldn't you say so?' Alexander laughed, I saw Oliver look at Christine apologetically, whilst the two women laughed even louder.

'I think it's splendid when men can sing, it shows they can use their emotions, to me there's nothing finer.' Christine replied quietly but firmly, her grip slack now on my arm, my stomach went cold, I knew who she was thinking of when she said this her 'Maestro,' I ground my teeth together. Alexander's face was slack, but in a slight smile whilst Oliver laughed now.

'Good for you Miss Daae, you seem like a very bright and intelligent girl, I would love to talk one day, perhaps you could give me singing lessons.' He winked as they walked away; Christine giggled slightly, then looked up at me.

'Oh gosh Raoul, I was so scared, I thought those women would eat me alive. Thank you for being there.' My anger diminished, her grip tightened on my arm. Yes, she was realising in this world, in my world she needed me, I loved her dependency on me, and her nerves. I shot a smile to one of the tables which was filled with lords and ladies, they called me over. I felt Christine's slight restrain as we pushed through the crowds to get to them, most people moved out our way, knowing who I was, and wishing to catch a look at who I had with me.

'Ah Raoul! There you are, and whom may I ask is this little gem?' asked one of the fat red faced men, who was bulging out of his navy tail coat. Introduced Christine and as soon as I said her name the whispers went around the table like fire. I saw Christine look at the floor, blushing, I gave her hand a squeeze.

'Miss Daae? Let me have a look at you,' the man stood up, looking her up and down, asking her to turn, I watched Christine look at me for some kind of comfort, it was such a good feeling, she was finally wanting my attention. Once the man had finished, he sat back down and I re took Christine's shaking arm.

'Well I'm pleased to say you got a clean one, most of them from the theatres come riddled with nasty's.' I felt my stomach fill with anger, as I watched Christine recoil from his harsh words.

'Monsieur I'm going to have to ask you to leave, that insult not only offended me, but my date for the evening also.' I said sternly, putting my hand in my pocket, I laid some notes flat on my palm, invisible to Christine, I put my hand out in a stern hand shake, I watched the man's red face, for a moment he began to look angry, as if he might cause a scene then he felt the notes and was most agreeable to leave.

'I'm so sorry I offended you both.' He said with a bow, I watched him leave putting the notes into his pocket. I turned back to Christine, who pulled me into and quick embrace.

'Oh Raoul thank you, he was so wretched. That was so kind of you, will he get you in trouble?' she asked concerned holding my hand lightly as she faced me, she actually looked concerned. I thought of the notes, that would of been more than enough to keep him silent. But I adores having Christine thinking i was her prince charming, swinging into the rescue.

'Christine, do not worry. He is a no body to me. I deal with rude men all the time, you just have to be polite and stern.' I said coolly.

'That's very wise Raoul. Thank you once again.'

We stood with the crowds of people around the ball floor, and watched the dancing couples, all spinning and twirling together. Her face was light up as she watched each movement.

'Isn't it splendid? Its as if they are the musical notes, all floating and turning together to make a melody.' She smiled beautifully, I had no idea what she was talking about, but I did notice how ever that Nadir Kahn was close at hand, only ten or so metres away and keeping it seemed a close eye on us. I snarled in his direction, then offered Christine my hand.

'Shall we dance?' I asked, charmingly, I felt her take my hand. 'Let's hope you've improved since last time.' All the over couples clapped as I took her into the middle of the floor, they all stood the sides of the full room, every pair of eyes on us. It was custom to allow the host to lead the dance of his choice. I felt Christine pull back slightly, as she realised everyone was watching her, I slipped my hand onto her waist, feeling the tight material, and taking a deep breath as I pulled her to me close, her body pinned against mine, she pushed from me slightly.

'Raoul they are all watching.' She whispered, as the music began and we twirled, the eyes around us like hawks.

'I know Christine,' I said casually 'its splendid isn't it? Your dancing is a lot better.' It was true, she hadn't stood on my toes once, but I knew who had taught her, and I growled at the thought. Other couples joined in now, so we weren't alone on the floor, the colours began to all blend together as we twirled and spun. Christine was smiling now. I held her waist tightly, I didn't want to ever let go. The music changed, and the pairs stopped and clapped one another, all the clapping was largely for me and Christine, I took a bow, whilst she nervously giggled.

'May I get a drink?' Christine asked, I felt her grip go on my hand, I snatched it back, she stopped and looked at me 'I'm sure I can get a drink by myself Raoul.' She said with an uncertain smile.

'Well, I don't want you getting lost, now do I.' I walked with her, back through the crowds of people, my hands clutching hers, until we reached the servants milling in the hall.

'Drink, sir?' one asked passing me a champagne flute, I nodded and downed it in one, I needed that, 'champagne Christine?'

'Oh no thank you Raoul, do you have any water?' she asked sweetly, I almost laughed; I clicked at the servant who rushed off and came back with icy water.

'Thank you so much, sorry for being a pain.' She smiled at the servant who seemed shocked and smiled back. Christine didn't seem to understand that these were just servants, you did thank them or show them kindness, her naivety was adorable. We stood in the coolness of the hall way for a while, it was crowded, but the large front door was open allowing a breeze to come in. I was grateful of it, I was getting very hot in my finest dress robes, they were silk lined, and the problem was they got very hot. My cheeks were slightly read I noticed in the silver ware.

Christine was looking mesmerised at a large and grand painting of my father's prized stallion, it was large a grey, the picture was amazingly accurate down to the last slightly silver dapple on its strong quarters.

'Do you like horses Christine?' I asked, wondering why she was so fascinated.

'I adore horses, they're such beautiful creatures, especially this one, what is his name?' She asked sweetly, smiling at me.

'Caspian, perhaps I can show you him later, he is in the stable.' I said rather bored, I hated the horse, but anything to impress Christine.

'Oh Raoul, that would be splendid!' she touched my hand, her eyes glittering at the painting.

I looked up at it not knowing what she saw to make her look that happy. It was just a horse.

'Christine?' We both turned, Christine smiled and I grimaced as if from nowhere there was Nadir Kahn. The man made my blood boil, this was the time, I had to do it now. My plan needed to be put into place, into action, and now was the time I decided. Now was the time I needed to find out everything. I needed Christine with me now, she needed to be mine. I always got what I wanted and I wanted her. To get her I needed to get him to crumble, and then I could get at the monster. I shook my head returning from my thoughts to the busy room once more. I smiled falsely at Nadir.

'Mr Kahn I need some help on something I have a painting you see, and I think it might be Persian, I'm not sure, if it is Id love for you to have it. A reminder of your old home.' I said it seemed to convince him, he nodded.

'I'd be happy too.' I smiled and began to walk away beckoning him.

'It's upstairs, I hope you don't mind.' I said my acting skills were second to none, he nodded again.

'Shall I come?' Christine asked biting her lip.

'I thought it might be nice for you to talk to some people without me there, see what they think.' I said cheerfully 'we won't be long.' Nadir hesitated on the bottom step as I said this, but Christine nodded at him, he sighed and followed me up.

My heart was racing, this was it. This was the start of it all.

XXX

Christine POV

I really didn't know what to think of the ball, there were so many people, they were everywhere, filling every room, and nearly all of them seemed to dislike me. If I entered a room I'd get looks from everyone, they'd all turn to stare, the beautiful women all sneered, and the men would look me up and down with a look in their eye I couldn't name. They all knew I was an outsider; some were kind and asked about my singing, others not so kind. Like that beastly man, who said I could be filled with 'hidden nasty's' the way he spoke of me it was like I was an animal. It hurt a lot when he had said it. But Raoul had come to my rescue, he was so swift and cutting, the man just left without a trace or protest, I hadn't realised until tonight quite how much power Raoul had. It was scary really. I didn't feel like I belonged here at all, the rooms were too full, and the people although pretty and grand all seemed to dislike me. I didn't mind however, I was having an okay time, it wasn't what I had expected, but it was lovely to see how these grand people live. It just didn't appeal to me in the slightest, the women all seemed to be more like accessories then people, which was sad because they were all so beautiful, but to me I'd rather hear them speak then just nod or cackle it was sad really. Maybe that was just the women I had met here. I stood now, still staring at the beautiful painting of the white horse. Gosh it was lovely, I had always wanted my own horses, I had learnt to ride when I was little, with Papa, but once poverty had struck a horse wasn't the first thing on our minds, but still I was always drawn to them and their majestic beauty. I noticed it had been a long time since Nadir and Raoul had gone up stairs and I was feeling rather lonely, I had tried to make conversation, but was ignored, and wasn't brave enough to ask for a dance. I was just a stupid girl I cursed myself, Erik had made me this lovely gown and Raoul had been generous enough to invite me and I was just too scared or girlish to get on with it. I decided to find Raoul, I walked to the stairs slipping through the noisy crowds of people, and flew unnoticed up the stairs, until I was on a vast landing. I tip toed along it, there was so many grand doors I lost count. I began to worry, maybe Nadir and Raoul had gone down another flight of stairs, it wouldn't surprise me if there was another one, the house was so large.

I was pleased to see Nadir and Raoul were getting along, I trusted Nadir a lot, and what Erik had said to me still rung in my head. I walked on further, my dress making a soft noise as it trailed along the floor, I smiled at it, it was so perfect I never wanted to take it off. It was like being within that slight, shadow of a hold Erik ha had me in before I had left. I smiled, how I wished Erik could have come, I loved Raouls company, but I loved Erik.

There were several loud bangs, I jumped each time, turning to see where they came from. A door suddenly opened with a crack, I turned quickly, my heart racing to see Raoul. He looked very red in the face, his eyes wide, his hair ruffled. He was sweating slightly. He shut the door quickly on seeing me, and locked it. He gave me a smile. I noticed his hand was bleeding heavily.

Raoul, are you quite all right?' I asked concerned, he certainly didn't look so. 'What on earth happened to your hand?'

'Oh nothing Christine, I had a slight turn and slipped and broke my mirror.' He rolled his eyes, which were still wide and one was twitching slightly, he didn't look okay at all. I was worried.

'Perhaps you need a lie down Raoul, Ill get some stuff to clean your hand.' I said quickly watching it bleed.

'No, no, Ill be fine, I just need some water, and a bandage.' I was convinced, but he smiled at me 'Don't worry for me Christine.' He tapped my chin with his non bloody hand, and then walked away beckoning me behind him. I stopped.

'Where is Mr Kahn?' I asked confused, looking around I couldn't see him anywhere.

'He went back down to put the painting in his carriage, he will be back soon I'm sure.' Raoul smiled at me.

I stood for a moment, I was convinced I hadn't seen Mr Kahn at all, but maybe I had over looked him. I smiled at Raoul, but still something didn't feel right, I think as soon as I found Mr Kahn again, I'd like to go home. My tummy was all cold, something defiantly wasn't right here.

Dun, dun, dun...

Hope you enjoyed that, obviously we have more of the ball in the next chapter (:

I'm so glad you appear to be enjoying it so far, you guys motivate me completely so thank you all once again.

My inspiration for Christine's ball dress was the Masquerade dress in the 2004 film.

But thank you all for just reading (:

*Reviewers are more than welcome to stand on Raouls toes as they dance past with Erik ;)*

If you've seen the 1943 Phantom, yesterday was the 4 year anniversary of Susanna Foster's death, she played Christine, so let's all hope she's with the real Angel of Music and resting peacefully.-Thanks to Zoesy27 for reminding me *Erik rose for you*