It was the sweetest torture I have ever experienced.

{Christine}

When my eyes flutter open again, my head is lying on Erik's shoulder and he is sitting still, mindlessly contemplating the flames.

"We should retire, Christine," he says, sensing I am awake. "My shoulder is not comfortable enough for you, and you must be exhausted."

"I am free tomorrow, you know," I croak. Surely it is not that late.

Besides, I am really cosy as it is.

"You've had a very long and tiring day. You ought to get some rest."

He is right, though. I sigh deeply.

"Thank you for everything, Erik," I say, stretching subtly. "You have made me very happy."

"I am glad you wanted to spend some time with me," he whispers. "Now, off you go! You need your beauty sleep!"

I smile brightly at him and go straight to my room.

That is when it hits me.

My corset.

I know I shan't be able to spend the entire night wearing that bloody thing and there is simply no other option. I have got no choice.

I need Erik to help me.

"Erik?" I ask, opening the door.

"Yes? Is there something wrong?" he inquires appearing in front of me.

"I am afraid I may require your help."

"Of course. What can I do for you?"

"Would you please come in?"

He looks puzzled, but he does so.

"Yes, Christine? What is it?"

I close my eyes for a moment, forcing my virginal self to stop begging me not to do this.

"This is going to sound wrong… Improper… And humiliating. Trust me, I shall be just as uncomfortable, but… I need you to untie my corset for me," I mutter finally.

He is quiet.

Too quiet.

"You want me to what?"

"Please don't get mad at me," I beg him. "It slipped my mind to ask somebody after the performance and now I have no choice, I swear, and I fear I will suffocate if you do not do this."

The thought of my discomfort seems to convince him it simply must be done. He nods his head, not meeting my eyes. I turn around and take off the nightgown; I am blushing so hard, for I am literally standing in front of a man in nothing but my corset and pantaloons.

This is not how I imagined that moment.

When he touches me, I blush even harder, although I thought it was impossible. His hands are cold, and yet they burn my skin.

I have no idea what is happening to me.

He is standing so close and he is taking his time and he is touching me and my breathing speeds up and my heart is racing in my chest oh god I feel faint.

There is so much tension between us, the silence is almost deafening.

I have never felt more alive in my life.

I can feel his breath on my shoulder when he finally finishes his job; I am clutching that corset for dear life. The last thing I want is getting completely naked in his presence.

Or maybe-…

"Oh, Christine," Erik says gently, his breath still tickling my bare skin. "You are my biggest reward and my worst punishment at the same time."

I gulp.

"Good night, little one," he whispers, leaving me alone.

Whew! It's midnight. I need a drink.

Passed Literary Theory, only one result more is still a mystery - I can hardly wait to be over with this stress! Thank you for EVERYTHING my dolls; I am loving our conversations via PM! :)

See you tomorrow,

Evy xx